bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An On‐Skin Electrode with Anti‐Epidermal‐Surface‐Lipid Function Based on a Zwitterionic Polymer Brush
Authors: He Ke , Liu Zhiyuan , Wan Changjin , Jiang Ying , Wang Ting , Wang Ming , Zhang Feilong , Liu Yaqing , Pan Liang , Xiao Meng , Yang Hui , Chen Xiaodong
Published: May 2020

On‐skin flexible devices provide a noninvasive approach for continuous and real‐time acquisition of biological signals from the skin, which is essential for future chronic disease diagnosis and smart health monitoring. Great progress has been achieved in flexible devices to resolve the mechanical mismatching between conventional rigid devices and human skin. However, common materials used for flexible devices including silicon‐based elastomers and various metals exhibit no resistance to epidermal surface lipids (skin oil and grease), which restricts the long‐term and household usability. Herein, an on‐skin electrode with anti‐epidermal‐surface‐lipid function is reported, which is based on the grafting of a zwitterionic poly(2‐methacryl‐oyloxyethyl, methacryloyl‐oxyethyl, or meth‐acryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (PMPC) brush on top of gold‐coated poly(dimethylsiloxane) (Au/PDMS). Such an electrode allows the skin‐lipids‐fouled surface to be cleaned by simple water rinsing owing to the superhydrophilic zwitterionic groups. As a proof‐of‐concept, the PMPC‐Au/PDMS electrodes are employed for both electrocardiography (ECG) and electromyography (EMG) recording. The electrodes are able to maintain stable skin‐electrode impedance and good signal‐to noise ratio (SNR) by water rinsing alone. This work provides a material‐based solution to improve the long‐term reusability of on‐skin electronics and offers a unique prospective on developing next generation wearable healthcare devices.
Tumor‐Microenvironment‐Triggered Ion Exchange of a Metal–Organic Framework Hybrid for Multimodal Imaging and Synergistic Therapy of Tumors
Authors: Chen Ying , Li Zi‐Hao , Pan Pei , Hu Jing‐Jing , Cheng Si‐Xue , Zhang Xian‐Zheng
Published: May 2020

Nanotheranostic agents (NTAs) that integrate diagnostic capabilities and therapeutic functions have great potential for personalized medicine, yet poor tumor specificity severely restricts further clinical applications of NTAs. Here, a pro‐NTA (precursor of nanotheranostic agent) activation strategy is reported for in situ NTA synthesis at tumor tissues to enhance the specificity of tumor therapy. This pro‐NTA, also called PBAM, is composed of an MIL‐100 (Fe)‐coated Prussian blue (PB) analogue (K2Mn[Fe(CN)6]) with negligible absorption in the near‐infrared region and spatial confinement of Mn2+ ions. In a mildly acidic tumor microenvironment (TME), PBAM can be specifically activated to synthesize the photothermal agent PB nanoparticles, with release of free Mn2+ ions due to the internal fast ion exchange, resulting in the “ON” state of both T1‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging and photoacoustic signals. In addition, the combined Mn2+‐mediated chemodynamic therapy in the TME and PB‐mediated photothermal therapy guarantee a more efficient therapeutic performance compared to monotherapy. In vivo data further show that the pro‐NTA activation strategy could selectively brighten solid tumors and detect invisible lymph node metastases with high specificity.
Direct‐Printing of Functional Nanofibers on 3D Surfaces Using Self‐Aligning Nanojet in Near‐Field Electrospinning
Authors: Shin Dongwoon , Choi Sun , Kim Jonghyun , Regmi Abiral , Chang Jiyoung
Published: May 2020

This paper reports a high‐resolution, template‐free, and direct‐printing method of functional nanofiber on 3D surfaces using a self‐aligning nanojet (SA‐N) in near‐field electrospinning (NFES). In the lowest regime of NFES, the cone‐jet transition is induced by the surface current, which leads to a unique jetting configuration where the microscale Taylor cone (microcone) is formed on the surface of the spherical‐shape droplet. The microcone rapidly develops to the nanoscale jet where the tangential electric force dominates the kinematics of the charged jet. The spherical‐shape ejection boundary allows the jetting angle from 0° to ±90° in both convex and concave surfaces, enabling precise deposition of nanofiber regardless of the curvature of the 3D surfaces. Using SA‐N, precise printing of functional nanofiber is successfully demonstrated on various 3D geometries, including convex, concave, and inner surface of the 3D structure. The direct‐printing ability of nanofiber on 3D surfaces using SA‐N will be a promising strategy to utilize various functional polymers in flexible electronics, printed electronics, optics, and biomedical engineering.
Coherent Manipulation of Single Electrons with Optical Photons in Condensed Helium‐4
Authors: Otten Matthew , Zhou Xianjing , Zhang Xufeng , Jin Dafei
Published: May 2020

Single electrons are one of the simplest quantum objects in nature. In free space or conventional materials, single electrons hardly interact with optical (ultraviolet‐visible‐infrared) photons, so their quantum states cannot be easily manipulated by optics. Here, a notable exception is theoretically demonstrated: a single electron in condensed helium‐4 can be self‐confined in a nanometric bubble of 1 to 2 nm radius and resonantly interact with mid‐infrared photons of 3 to 12 µm wavelength. A femtosecond laser can drive the electron into Rabi oscillations and prepare it onto arbitrary superposition states between the ground and excited states. After the laser pulse, the electron bubble can exhibit remarkable nonequilibrium quantum dynamics and evolve toward various final states with various lifetimes. These processes are accompanied with intense phonon radiation.
Wien Oscillator Using Organic Enzyme‐Chemiresistors for Fused Measurement of Glucose and Lactate
Authors: Aggas John R. , Sánchez-Sinencio Edgar , Guiseppi-Elie Anthony
Published: May 2020

Total body sensor networks for physiological (diagnostic biosensors) and biomechanical (force and motion) systems require data fusion through several algorithms. A novel, device‐level method of sensor data fusion is presented. This biomimetic concept is demonstrated through the development of glucose and lactate sensitive chemiresistors in a biologically responsive Wien bridge oscillator circuit. Biocompatible and bioresponsive polymers suitable for integration of molecular recognition and transduction yield stimuli‐responsive chemiresistors. The analyte‐responsive chemiresistors are electroconductive hydrogels that separately incorporate the enzymes glucose oxidase and/or lactate oxidase that are conjugated with single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and embedded in a percolating network of conductive polymer (polypyrrole). The input of the system is the chemical potential of the analytes, glucose and lactate, acting through the biological activity of immobilized enzymes, and the output of the system is a single sinusoidal wave from which the concentrations of glucose and lactate can be deconvoluted from the amplitude and DC offset, respectively. This engineered system, based on soft bioelectronic circuit elements, aims to offer simultaneous, real‐time analyte biosensing at a biomolecular level in a move toward biologically responsive circuits and eventually, bioanalytical systems suitable for indwelling in human tissue for extended periods of time.
Adaptive Deformation of Ionic Domains in Hydrogel Enforcing Dielectric Coupling for Sensitive Response to Mechanical Stretching
Authors: Wang Yingcong , Zeng Fei , Liu Jialu , Wan Qin , Guo Dong , Deng Yuan
Published: May 2020

Understanding the role of ionic migration in salt‐doped hydrogels is crucial for designing and using ionic skins. This study systematically investigates a typical ionic skin in the aspects of variations in capacitance and conductance with respect to stretch ratio. The ionic skin exhibits a sensitive response to the stretch ratio and input frequency. The capacitance can increase by 145% with increasing stretch ratio, whereas the ratio of capacitance variation to stretch ratio can exceed ≈0.25. The capacitance decreases with increasing frequency, whereas conductance increases. Capacitance or conductance with respect to stretch ratio exhibits an inflection point when the input frequency is fixed. Herein, an ionic domain model is proposed in which the ionic domains deform adaptively with global strain and released active ions. A portion of movable ions strengthens dielectric coupling, thereby significantly enhancing capacitance, and some of them act as free ion channels to increase conductance. The dielectric coupling is weakened when the active ions arriving at the electrode are depleted by either a significantly high frequency or large strain. This study will be useful for signal handling in ionic skin with high flux and high sensitivity and may also assist in understanding computing and memory principles of biological bodies.
The Sources of Measured US Agricultural Productivity Growth: Weather, Technological Change, and Adaptation
Authors: Chambers Robert G. , Pieralli Simone
Published: May 2020

The interaction between US state‐level TFP growth and weather is investigated using growth‐accounting techniques. The focus is on examining how that interaction changed between the 1960s and the end of the twentieth century. An empirical approximation to the production frontier constructed using state‐level data and mathematical programming techniques is used to decompose observed state‐level agricultural TFP growth into four components: technical change, weather‐related shifts in the frontier, input/scale effects, and adaptation to the frontier. Technical change and adaptation to the frontier play a significant role in determining average state total factor productivity. Weather‐related effects differ across Climate‐Hub Regions but are of particular importance in the Midwest.
Segregating patterns of copy number variations in extended autism spectrum disorder (ASD) pedigrees
Authors: Woodbury‐Smith Marc , Zarrei Mehdi , Wei John , Thiruvahindrapuram Bhooma , O'Connor Irene , Paterson Andrew D. , Yuen Ryan K. C. , Dastan Jila , Stavropoulos Dimitri J. , Howe Jennifer L. , Thompson Ann , Parlier Morgan , Fernandez Bridget , Piven Joseph , Anagnostou Evdokia , Scherer Stephen W. , Vieland Veronica J. , Szatmari Peter
Published: May 2020

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a relatively common childhood onset neurodevelopmental disorder with a complex genetic etiology. While progress has been made in identifying the de novo mutational landscape of ASD, the genetic factors that underpin the ASD's tendency to run in families are not well understood. In this study, nine extended pedigrees each with three or more individuals with ASD, and others with a lesser autism phenotype, were phenotyped and genotyped in an attempt to identify heritable copy number variants (CNVs). Although these families have previously generated linkage signals, no rare CNV segregated with these signals in any family. A small number of clinically relevant CNVs were identified. Only one CNV was identified that segregated with ASD phenotype; namely, a duplication overlapping DLGAP2 in three male offspring each with an ASD diagnosis. This gene encodes a synaptic scaffolding protein, part of a group of proteins known to be pathologically implicated in ASD. On the whole, however, the heritable nature of ASD in the families studied remains poorly understood.
Protonierung von CH3N3 und CF3N3 in Supersäuren: Isolierung und strukturelle Charakterisierung von langlebigen Methyl‐ und Trifluormethylamino‐Diazonium‐Ionen
Authors: Saal Thomas , Blastik Zsófia E. , Haiges Ralf , Nirmalchandar Archith , Baxter Amanda F. , Christe Karl O. , Vasiliu Monica , Dixon David A. , Beier Petr , Prakash G. K. Surya
Published: May 2020

Die Methylaminodiazonium‐Kationen [CH3N(H)N2]+ und [CF3N(H)N2]+ wurden als ihre bei niedriger Temperatur stabilen [AsF6]‐Salze durch Protonierung von Azidomethan und Azidotrifluormethan in supersauren Systemen hergestellt. Sie wurden durch NMR‐ und Raman‐Spektroskopie charakterisiert. Ein eindeutiger Nachweis der Protonierungsstelle wurde durch die Kristallstrukturen beider Salze erhalten, welche die Bildung der Alkylaminodiazonium‐Ionen bestätigte. Die Lewis‐Addukte CH3N3⋅AsF5 und CF3N3⋅AsF5 wurden ebenfalls hergestellt und durch Tieftemperatur‐NMR‐ und Raman‐Spektroskopie sowie im Falle von CH3N3⋅AsF5 durch Röntgenstrukturbestimmung charakterisiert. Elektronische Strukturberechnungen wurden durchgeführt, um zusätzliche Einblicke zu erhalten. Versuche zur elektrophilen Aminierung von Aromaten wie Benzol und Toluol mit Methyl‐ und Trifluormethylamino‐Diazonium‐Ionen waren erfolglos.
Modular Synthesis of Furans with up to Four Different Substituents by a trans‐Carboboration Strategy
Authors: Jin Hongming , Fürstner Alois
Published: May 2020

Propargyl alcohols, on treatment with MHMDS (M=Na, K), B2(pin)2, an acid chloride and a palladium/copper co‐catalyst system, undergo a reaction cascade comprised of trans‐diboration, regioselective acylation, cyclization and dehydration to give trisubstituted furylboronic acid pinacol ester derivatives in good yields; subsequent Suzuki coupling allows a fourth substituent of choice to be introduced and hence tetrasubstituted (arylated) furans to be formed. In terms of modularity, the method seems unrivaled, not least because each product can be attained by two orthogonal but convergent ways (“diagonal split”). This asset is illustrated by the “serial” formation of a “library” of all twelve possible furan isomers that result from systematic permutation of four different substituents about the heterocyclic core.
Total Syntheses of Norrisolide‐Type Spongian Diterpenes Cheloviolene C, Seconorrisolide B, and Seconorrisolide C
Authors: Qiao Tianjiao , Wang Yicheng , Zheng Sujuan , Kang Huiying , Liang Guangxin
Published: May 2020

The first total syntheses of three unusual norrisolide‐type rearranged spongian diterpenes, cheloviolene C, seconorrisolide B, and seconorrisolide C, have been accomplished via a common intermediate through late‐stage ring‐scissoring. The synthesis features a Wolff ring contraction for the synthesis of the trans‐hydrindane system, and a crucial retro Diels–Alder reaction/intramolecular ene cyclization for the rapid stereoselective construction of the furo[2,3‐b]furan system, which is commonly seen in rearranged spongian diterpenes.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Dialkyl Ketones from the Coupling of N‐Alkyl Pyridinium Salts with Activated Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Wang Jiang , Hoerrner Megan E. , Watson Mary P. , Weix Daniel J.
Published: May 2020

While ketones are among the most versatile functional groups, their synthesis remains reliant upon reactive and low‐abundance starting materials. In contrast, amide formation is the most‐used bond‐construction method in medicinal chemistry because the chemistry is reliable and draws upon large and diverse substrate pools. A new method for the synthesis of ketones is presented here that draws from the same substrates used for amide bond synthesis: amines and carboxylic acids. A nickel terpyridine catalyst couples N‐alkyl pyridinium salts with in situ formed carboxylic acid fluorides or 2‐pyridyl esters under reducing conditions (Mn metal). The reaction has a broad scope, as demonstrated by the synthesis of 35 different ketones bearing a wide variety of functional groups with an average yield of 60±16 %. This approach is capable of coupling diverse substrates, including pharmaceutical intermediates, to rapidly form complex ketones.
Highly Conductive MXene Film Actuator Based on Moisture Gradients
Authors: Wang Jingfeng , Liu Yuyan , Cheng Zhongjun , Xie Zhimin , Yin Liang , Wang Wu , Song Yingbin , Zhang Haiyang , Wang Youshan , Fan Zhimin
Published: May 2020

MXene (Ti3C2Tx) is a new 2D material with both hydrophilicity and high electrical conductivity, and it has shown promise in smart electronic devices. Reported herein is a homogeneous MXene film actuator with high electrical conductivity triggered by moisture gradients. The actuator is highly sensitive to moisture and undergoes deformation, with the maximum bending angle as high as 155° at a relative humidity difference of 65 %. Several analysis methods show that the humidity drive and large deformation of the MXene film occur in situ by asymmetric expansion of the bilayer structure. The combination of deformation and electrical conductivity makes this film applicable to flexible excavators, electrical switches, and other fields, applications that are difficult to achieve directly by using other 2D materials. More importantly, this work further expands the new application range of MXene materials and provides new opportunities for building the next generation of high‐conductivity smart actuators.
Catalytic Oxidation of Alcohols and Amines to Value‐Added Chemicals using Water as the Solvent
Authors: Hazra Susanta , Malik Ekta , Nair Abhishek , Tiwari Vikas , Dolui Pritam , Elias Anil J.
Published: May 2020

Designing reactions in aqueous media has been one of the major challenges in modern organic synthesis, especially to avoid the use of large amounts of organic solvents whose disposal is a matter of grave concern from an environmental perspective. The oxidation of alcohols and amines is an essential and important step in the synthesis of many valuable products including polymers and pharmaceuticals. In recent times, there has been a surge in the use of water as a solvent in many organic reactions. This review focuses specifically on the oxidation reactions of alcohols and amines carried out in water media using transition metal catalysts, metal‐free catalysts and photocatalysts.
Three Bis‐BODIPY Analogous Diruthenium Redox Series: Characterization and Electronic Structure Analysis
Authors: Bera Sudip Kumar , Mondal Sudipta , Hazari Arijit Singha , Priego José Luis , Jiménez‐Aparicio Reyes , Kaim Wolfgang , Lahiri Goutam Kumar
Published: May 2020

The dianion derived from (2Z,6Z)‐3,7‐diphenyl‐N2,N6‐di(pyridin‐2‐yl)pyrrolo[2,3‐f]indole‐2,6(1H,5H)‐diimine (H2BL), a modified BODIPY ligand precursor, is shown to be capable of bridging two metal complex fragments RuL2, L=2,4‐pentanedionato (acac−), 2,2’‐bipyridine (bpy) or 2‐phenylazopyridine (pap) in [Ru(acac)2Ru(μ‐BL)Ru(acac)2] (1/2), [Ru(bpy)2Ru(μ‐BL)Ru(bpy)2](ClO4)2 ([3](ClO4)2) and [Ru(pap)2Ru(μ‐BL)Ru(pap)2](ClO4)2 ([4](ClO4)2). The compounds, including a diastereoisomeric pair 1 (meso) and 2 (rac) were spectroscopically and structurally characterized. Reversible electron transfers as revealed by cyclic and differential pulse voltammetry allowed for an EPR and UV‐vis‐NIR spectroelectrochemical investigation of several neighboring charge states. Together with susceptibility measurements and TD‐DFT calculations the assignment of oxidation states reveals that 1, 2 are diruthenium(III) species which can be oxidized or reduced by one electron whereas 32+ and 42+ contain ruthenium(II) and get reduced or oxidized mainly at the dianionic bridge (32+) or are reduced at the ancillary ligands pap (42+).
Novel N‐Cycloalkylcarbonyl‐N′‐arylthioureas: Synthesis, Design, Antifungal Activity and Gene Toxicity
Authors: Kholodniak Olena V. , Kazunin Maksym S. , Meyer Fatuma , Kovalenko Sergiy I. , Steffens Karl G.
Published: May 2020

A synthesis method of novel N‐cycloalkylcarbonyl‐N′‐arylthioureas was developed. It consists of sequential addition of equimolecular amounts of ammonium isothiocyanate and substituted anilines to cycloalkylcarbonyl chlorides. The identity and purity of products were confirmed by LC/MS spectra, their structure by elemental analysis, IR and 1H‐NMR spectra. Preliminary antimicrobial screening for standard microorganisms and molecular docking allowed to select several structures for antifungal and genetic toxicity studies. Conducted in vitro screening of 9 compounds for antifungal potential against 11 phytopathogenic fungi and three Phytophthora strains revealed that two N‐(arylcarbamothioyl) cyclopropanecarboxamides at a concentration of 50 μg/ml exhibited activities comparable to the standard antifungal agent ‘Cyproconazole’. Analysis of mutagenicity of novel thioureas using the Salmonella reverse mutagenicity assay (‘Ames Test’) showed a low gene‐toxicity profile.
Cytotoxic Meroterpenoids from the Fungus Alternaria sp. JJY‐32
Authors: Wang Lu , Jiao Jieying , Liu Dan , Zhang Xiaomin , Li Jing , Che Qian , Zhu Tianjiao , Zhang Guojian , Li Dehai
Published: May 2020

Two new meroterpenoids, tricycloalternarenes X and Y, together with one known meroterpenoid, tricycloalternarene I, were isolated from the fungus Alternaria sp. JJY‐32. The structures including absolute configurations were established by the comprehensive spectroscopic data, electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectral analyses, and biosynthesis consideration. Tricycloalternarene X showed cytotoxicity against the HL‐60 and HO8910 cells with IC50 values of 7.54 and 20.32 μm.
Analysis of Chemical Composition and Assessment of Antioxidant, Cytotoxic and Synergistic Antibacterial Activities of Essential Oils from Different Plant Parts of Piper boehmeriifolium
Authors: Wang Ruo‐Lan , Gao Yang , Xing Xiang
Published: May 2020

The essential oils (EOs) from leaves, stems, and whole plant of Piper boehmeriifolium were analyzed using GC/FID and GC/MS. The main constituents of P. boehmeriifolium EOs were β‐caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, β‐elemene, spathulenol, germacrene D, β‐selinene, and neointermedeol. The antioxidant potential of the EOs were determined using DPPH•, ABTS•+ and FRAP assays. In ABTS•+ assay, the leaf oil exhibited a remarkable activity with an IC50 value of 7.36 μg/mL almost similar to BHT (4.06 μg/mL). Furthermore, the antibacterial activity of the oils as well as their synergistic potential with conventional antibiotics were evaluated using microdilution and Checkerboard assays. The results revealed that the oils from different parts of P. boehmeriifolium inhibited the growth of all tested bacteria and the minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined to be 0.078 – 1.250 mg/mL. In combination with chloramphenicol or streptomycin, the oils showed significant synergistic antibacterial effects in most cases. Besides, the results of MTT assay indicated that the oil of the whole plant exhibited significant cytotoxic activities on human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2) and human breast cancer cells (MCF‐7). In summary, the P. boehmeriifolium oils could be regarded as a prospective source for pharmacologically active compounds.
Influence of Shear Flow on the Crystallization of Organic Melt Emulsions – A Rheo‐Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Investigation
Authors: Kaysan Gina , Spiegel Burkard , Guthausen Gisela , Kind Matthias
Published: May 2020

There is a need to better understand the influence of shear flow on the crystallization of a molten oil phase in an oil/water emulsion due to its high relevance for industrial processes. The present study focuses on the influence of laminar shear flow on the crystallization kinetics of polydisperse n‐hexadecane‐in‐water emulsions. The investigation was carried out by rheo‐nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy in a Taylor‐Couette geometry. An accelerating impact of the shear rate on the overall crystallization kinetics was verified. This effect stems from an increase of the collision frequency of already crystallized droplets with not yet crystallized droplets. Nevertheless, the collision efficiency decreased with higher shear rate.
Boosting Oxygen and Peroxide Reduction Reactions on PdCu Intermetallic Cubes
Authors: Zhang Qingfeng , Li Fan , Lin Lina , Peng Jiaheng , Zhang Wencong , Chen Wenlong , Xiang Qian , Shi Fenglei , Shang Wen , Tao Peng , Song Chengyi , Huang Rong , Zhu Hong , Deng Tao , Wu Jianbo
Published: May 2020

Palladium‐based nanocatalysts have the potential to replace platinum‐based catalysts for fuel‐cell reactions in alkaline electrolytes, especially PdCu intermetallic nanoparticles with high electrochemical activity and stability. However, unlike the synthetic methods for obtaining the nanoparticles, the effect of PdCu shape on the performance is relatively less well studied. Here, we demonstrate the facet dependence of PdCu intermetallics on the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and peroxide reduction, and reveal that the {100} dominant PdCu cubes have a much higher ORR mass activity and specific activity than spheres at 0.9 V vs. RHE, which is four and five times that of commercial Pd/C and Pt/C catalysts, respectively, and show only a 31.7 % decay after 30 000 cycles in the stability test. Moreover, cubic PdCu nanoparticles show higher peroxide electroreduction activity than Pd cubes and PdCu spheres. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation reveals that the huge difference originates from the reduction in oxygen adsorption energy and energy barrier of peroxide decomposition on the ordered {100} PdCu surface. Given the relationship between the shape and electrochemical performance, this study will contribute to further research on electrocatalytic improvements of catalysts in alkaline environments.
Greater utility of molecular subtype rather than epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) markers for prognosis in high‐risk non‐muscle‐invasive (HGT1) bladder cancer
Authors: Ottley Edward C , Pell Robert , Brazier Benedict , Hollidge Julianne , Kartsonaki Christiana , Browning Lisa , O'Neill Eric , Kiltie Anne E
Published: May 2020

Approximately 75% of bladder cancers are non‐muscle invasive (NMIBC). Of these, up to 53% of cases progress to life‐threatening muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Patients with high‐grade stage T1 (HGT1) NMIBC frequently undergo radical cystectomy (RC), although this represents overtreatment for many. Identification of progressors versus non‐progressors could spare unnecessary treatment. Recent studies have confirmed that urothelial carcinoma is composed of two main molecular subtypes, basal and luminal, with 12% of basal tumours exhibiting epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). Levels of immune cell infiltration have been shown to be subtype‐specific. Here, we performed immunohistochemistry (IHC) for 11 antibodies relating to molecular subtypes or EMT in 26 cases of HGT1 urothelial carcinoma cases with 6 matched samples subsequently obtained at cystectomy (n = 6; 1 muscle‐invasive, 5 non‐muscle‐invasive; 3 = pTis, 1 = pT1, 1 = pTa) and at recurrence (n = 2, pT2). RNAScope was also conducted in a subset. Expression patterns in HGT1 specimens versus MIBC (pT2+) were examined, and correlated with disease‐specific survival (DSS). Levels of stromal tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes (sTILs) were assessed manually to determine whether lymphocyte infiltration was associated with DSS and whether differences existed between HGT1 and MIBC. Molecular subtype markers demonstrated increased prognostic potential compared to the EMT markers assessed. Increased expression of the luminal markers FOXA1 and SCUBE2, were found to be significantly associated with better DFS. No EMT markers were significantly associated with DFS. In areas of non‐invasive papillary urothelial carcinoma, but not invasive carcinoma, sTIL levels were found to be significantly associated with DFS. While differences were observed between HGT1 cases that progressed versus those that did not, a larger cohort study is required for validation of these findings. Taken together, an emphasis on molecular subtype markers, rather than EMT markers, may be preferable when studying biomarkers of HGT1 urothelial carcinoma in the future.
[1]Benzothieno[3,2‐b][1]benzothiophene‐Phthalocyanine Derivatives: A Subclass of Solution‐Processable Electron‐Rich Hole Transport Materials
Authors: Zanotti Gloria , Angelini Nicola , Mattioli Giuseppe , Paoletti Anna Maria , Pennesi Giovanna , Caschera Daniela , Sobolev Anatoly Petrovich , Beverina Luca , Calascibetta Adiel Mauro , Sanzone Alessandro , Di Carlo Aldo , Berionni Berna Beatrice , Pescetelli Sara , Agresti Antonio
Published: May 2020

The [1]benzothieno[3,2‐b][1]benzothiophene (BTBT) planar system was used to functionalize the phthalocyanine ring aiming at synthesizing novel electron‐rich π‐conjugated macrocycles. The resulting ZnPc−BTBT and ZnPc−(BTBT)4 derivatives are the first two examples of a phthalocyanine subclass having potential use as solution‐processable p‐type organic semiconductors. In particular, the combination of experimental characterizations and theoretical calculations suggests compatible energy level alignments with mixed halide hybrid perovskite‐based devices. Furthermore, ZnPc−(BTBT)4 features a high aggregation tendency, a useful tool to design compact molecular films. When tested as hole transport materials in perovskite solar cells under 100 mA cm−2 standard AM 1.5G solar illumination, ZnPc−(BTBT)4 gave power conversion efficiencies as high as 14.13 %, irrespective of the doping process generally required to achieve high photovoltaic performances. This work is a first step toward a new phthalocyanine core engineerization to obtain robust, yet more efficient and cost‐effective materials for organic electronics and optoelectronics.
Combining ability of extra‐early biofortified maize inbreds underStrigainfestation and low soil nitrogen
Authors: Oyekale Solomon A. , Badu‐Apraku B. , Adetimirin Victor O.
Published: May 2020

Striga hermonthica(Del.) Benth parasitism, low soil N, and nutritional deficiencies of normal‐endosperm maize (Zea maysL.) threaten maize yield and exacerbate nutritional problems in sub‐Sahara Africa (SSA). This study was conducted (a) to evaluate genetic variation among extra‐early maturing maize hybrids with provitamin A and quality protein characteristics, (b) to investigate gene action governing the inheritance ofStrigaresistance, grain yield, low N tolerance, and other measured traits under low‐N, high‐N, andStriga‐infested environments, and (c) to identify hybrids with high yield and stability across environments. One hundred and fifty hybrids developed using North Carolina Design II were evaluated with six checks under low‐N, high‐N, andStriga‐infested environments in Nigeria. Mean squares for hybrids were highly significant (P < .01) for grain yield and other traits across environments. Only general combining ability (GCA) for female and/or male mean squares were significant for measured traits under low N. In addition to significant GCA effects for most traits, specific combining ability was significant (P < .05) forStrigaemergence count underStrigainfestation, and ear height and ears per plant under high N, indicating that additive and nonadditive genetic effects controlled the inheritance of few traits underStrigaand high N, whereas additive genetic effect governed the inheritance of the traits under low N. Hybrids TZEEIORQ 55 × TZEEIORQ 26, TZEEIORQ 49 × TZEEIORQ 75, and TZEEIORQ 52 × TZEEIORQ 43 were high yielding and stable across environments and have potential for improving nutrition and maize yields in SSA.
Light‐Harvesting Supramolecular Polymers: Energy Transfer to Various Polyaromatic Acceptors
Authors: Jevric Jovana , Langenegger Simon M. , Häner Robert
Published: May 2020

A supramolecular light‐harvesting antenna consisting of 3,6‐disubstituted phosphodiester‐linked phenanthrene trimers (donors) was doped with different charged and uncharged polyaromatic and heteroaromatic acceptor chromophores. Excitation of the phenanthrene moieties is followed by energy transfer to the acceptor molecules and radiative relaxation. The self‐assembled fiber structure of the phenanthrene trimers is not altered by the dopant, as verified by atomic force microscopy (AFM). Among several neutral and cationic acceptor chromophores, benzo(a)pyrene emerged as one of the highest fluorescence quantum yields, reaching 31 % at a chromophore/phenanthrene ratio of 12 mol‐%. The energy transfer is probably a combination of Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) and a coherent energy transfer mechanism.
A new environmental performance index based on the carbon footprint, VOC emissions, and waste in a printing house
Authors: Hansuebsai Aran , Kaosod Athima , Kanchanasing Tanaporn
Published: May 2020

An environmental performance index (EPI) is introduced to evaluate the activities of a printing house based on three impacts: carbon footprint, volatile organic compound emissions, and waste. As the main causes of environmental degradation are the operation of machinery and usage of materials, we aimed to integrate the three impacts to interpret the EPI or the environmental friendliness of printing houses. Our results demonstrate that environmental awareness increased with improvements to the EPI, following the modification of printing processes and choices of printing materials. Various scenarios, including pre‐press, press, and post‐press, as well as printing materials, are proposed to predict trends and the possibility of increasing the EPI. Press management and materials and equipment changes have the greatest influence on the improvement of the
EPI.
Effect of Immediate Elaborated Feedback on Rater Accuracy
Authors: Attali Yigal
Published: May 2020

Principles of skill acquisition dictate that raters should be provided with frequent feedback about their ratings. However, in current operational practice, raters rarely receive immediate feedback about their scores owing to the prohibitive effort required to generate such feedback. An approach for generating and administering feedback responses to raters is proposed. It consists of automatically designating some responses as feedback responses, sourcing scores, and elaborations for these responses from a group of raters as part of regular scoring and, finally, administering the same responses to all other raters with immediate feedback based on a summary of the available scores and elaborations. This approach allows raters to receive frequent immediate feedback on a regular basis in a sustainable way. In two experimental studies, the effect of frequent immediate feedback (in approximately 25% of responses) on rating accuracy of newly trained raters was investigated. A control condition of no feedback was compared with two types of feedback with elaboration: text explanations of the correct score and a structured form identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the response. Results indicate that feedback had a beneficial effect on rater accuracy and that structured feedback was either equally beneficial to or more beneficial than text explanations.
The response of Cenozoic sedimentary evolution coupled with the formation of the South China Sea
Authors: Zhang Hao , Shao Lei , Zhang Gongcheng , Cui Yuchi , Zhao Zhigang , Hou Yuanli
Published: May 2020

We systematically expound the processes of Cenozoic sedimentary evolution in the South China Sea (SCS) regions by synthesizing relevant previous research and our own long‐term sedimentological work. The process of changes in Cenozoic sedimentary environments and palaeogeography can be divided into three stages corresponding to the tectonic evolution of the SCS. Stage I, the formation and development of the Proto‐South China Sea (Proto‐SCS) from the Late Mesozoic to Early Cenozoic; the SCS was a vast erosion zone, and terrestrial lacustrine deposits were only distributed sporadically. Stage II, the subduction of the Proto‐SCS and the opening of the SCS since the Late Eocene. The northern basins of the SCS gradually changed from terrestrial to marine environments. Southern basins were affected by the disappearance of the Proto‐SCS in the early stage. The distribution of marine environments shrank in the Late Eocene–Early Oligocene, but as the SCS expanded, these marine environments gradually recovered. Stage III, the stagnation and atrophy of SCS expansion from the Late Miocene to the present. The sedimentary environment of the SCS is basically stable in this stage. The most prominent feature of sedimentary evolution is the development and destruction of carbonate platforms.
Aberrant static and dynamic functional patterns of frontoparietal control network in antipsychotic‐naïve first‐episode psychosis subjects
Authors: Briend Frederic , Armstrong William P. , Kraguljac Nina V. , Keilhloz Shella D. , Lahti Adrienne C.
Published: May 2020

Psychotic disorders are disabling clinical syndromes characterized by widespread alterations in cortical information processing. Disruption of frontoparietal network (FPN) connectivity has emerged as a common footprint across the psychosis spectrum. Our goal was to characterize the static and dynamic resting‐state functional connectivity (FC) of the FPN in antipsychotic‐naïve first‐episode psychosis (FEP) subjects. We compared the static FC of the FPN in 40 FEP and 40 healthy control (HC) subjects, matched on age, sex, and socioeconomic status. To study the dynamic FC, we measured quasiperiodic patterns (QPPs) that consist of infraslow spatioemporal patterns embedded in the blood oxygen level‐dependent signal that repeats over time, exhibiting alternation of high and low activity. Relative to HC, we found functional hypoconnectivity between the right middle frontal gyrus and the right middle temporal gyrus, as well as the left inferior temporal gyrus and the left inferior parietal gyrus in FEP (p < .05, false discovery rate corrected). The correlation of the QPP with all functional scans was significantly stronger for FEP compared to HC, suggesting a greater impact of the QPPs to intrinsic brain activity in psychotic population. Regressing the QPP from the functional scans erased all significant group differences in static FC, suggesting that abnormal connectivity in FEP could result from altered QPP. Our study supports that alterations of cortical information processing are not a function of psychotic chronicity or antipsychotic medication exposure and may be regarded as trait specific. In addition, static connectivity abnormality may be partly related to altered brain network temporal dynamics.
Rapid implementation of an evidence‐based remote triaging system for assessment of suspected referrals and patients with head and neck cancer on follow‐up after treatment during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Model for international collaboration
Authors: Paleri Vinidh , Hardman John , Tikka Theofano , Bradley Paula , Pracy Paul , Kerawala Cyrus
Published: May 2020

Background

Outpatient telemedicine consultations are being adopted to triage patients for head and neck cancer. However, there is currently no established structure to frame this consultation.

Methods

For suspected referrals with cancer, we adapted the Head and Neck Cancer Risk Calculator (HaNC‐RC)‐V.2, generated from 10 244 referrals with the following diagnostic efficacy metrics: 85% sensitivity, 98.6% negative predictive value, and area under the curve of 0.89. For follow‐up patients, a symptom inventory generated from 5123 follow‐up consultations was used. A customized Excel Data Tool was created, trialed across professional groups and made freely available for download at www.entintegrate.co.uk/entuk2wwtt, alongside a user guide, protocol, and registration link for the project. Stakeholder support was obtained from national bodies.

Results

No remote consultations were refused by patients. Preliminary data from 511 triaging episodes at 13 centers show that 77.1% of patients were discharged directly or have had their appointments deferred.

Discussion

Significant reduction in footfall can be achieved using a structured triaging system. Further refinement of HaNC‐RC‐V.2 is feasible and the authors welcome international collaboration.
C24‐Ceramide Drives Gallbladder Cancer Progression Through Directly Targeting Phosphatidylinositol 5‐Phosphate 4‐Kinase Type‐2 Gamma to Facilitate Mammalian Target of Rapamycin Signaling Activation
Authors: Zhang Yonglong , Wang Hui , Chen Tao , Wang Haolu , Liang Xiaowen ,   ,, Zhang Yuchen , Duan Jinlin , Qian Shenjiao , Qiao Ke , Zhang Lei , Liu Yanfeng , Wang Jian
Published: May 2020

Background and Aims

The wide prevalence of chemoresistance and compromised early diagnosis of gallbladder cancer (GBC) has led to poor patient prognosis, requiring sustained efforts for the identification of effective biomarkers and therapeutic intervention. Ceramides have emerged as intracellular signaling molecules linked to tumorigenesis and therapeutic response in cancers. However, the clinical relevance of ceramides with GBC has not been investigated.

Approach and Results

In the present study, we revealed aberrant gene expressions (e.g., serine palmitoyltransferase 1 [SPTLC1] and ceramide synthase 2 [CERS2]) of de novo ceramide biosynthesis and length‐specific ceramide production in GBC tissues. Analyses of serum ceramide pattern in healthy controls, gallbladder stone, and GBC patients identified C24‐Ceramide as a potential diagnostic biomarker for patients with GBC. Importantly, elevation of SPTLC1, CERS2, and its product, C24‐Ceramide, was associated with tumor staging, distal metastasis, and worse prognosis. In line with this, C24‐Ceramide promoted GBC cell proliferation and migration in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, C24‐Ceramide directly bound to phosphatidylinositol 5‐phosphate 4‐kinase type‐2 gamma (PIP4K2C), a regulator of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), to facilitate mTOR complex formation and activation. C6‐Ceramide, an analogue of natural ceramide, competed with C24‐Ceramide for PIP4K2C binding, thereby abrogating C24‐Ceramide–mediated mTOR signaling activation and oncogenic activity. Furthermore, stimulation with C6‐Ceramide significantly suppressed the proliferative and metastatic capacity of GBC cells in vitro and in vivo, which was dependent on PIP4K2C.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the clinical relevance of ceramide metabolism with GBC progression and identify C24‐Ceramide as a diagnostic biomarker for GBC. We propose that PIP4K2C is indispensable for C6‐Ceramide as a potential therapeutic intervention for GBC through a direct competition with C24‐Ceramide.
Association between unrealistic comparative optimism and self‐management in individuals with type 2 diabetes: Results from a cross‐sectional, population‐based study
Authors: Karl Florian M. , Holle Rolf , Schwettmann Lars , Peters Annette , Meisinger Christa , Rückert‐Eheberg Ina‐Maria , Laxy Michael
Published: May 2020

Background and aims

Unrealistic comparative optimism (UO), as the erroneous judgement of personal risks to be lower than the risks of others, could help explain differences in diabetes self‐management. The present study tested the hypothesis that individuals with type 2 diabetes who underestimate their comparative heart attack risk, have a lower adherence regarding recommended self‐management.

Methods

We used data from individuals with type 2 diabetes participating in the German KORA (Cooperative Health Research in the Region of Augsburg) GEFU 4 (self‐administered health questionnaire 2016) study. UO was estimated by comparing participants' subjective comparative risk for having a heart attack within the next 5‐years (ie, “higher than others,” “average,” “lower than others”), with their objective comparative 10‐year cardiovascular disease risk based on the Framingham equations. We estimated binary logistic and linear regression models to analyze which characteristics were associated with UO and to test the association between UO and participants' self‐management behaviors (ie, regular self‐monitoring of body weight, blood sugar, and blood pressure, regular foot care, keeping a diabetes diary, and having a diet plan), and their sum score, respectively. All models were adjusted for socio‐demographic and disease‐related variables.

Results

The studied sample included n = 633 individuals with type 2 diabetes (mean age 70.7 years, 45% women). Smokers and males were more likely to show UO than nonsmokers and females. Furthermore, a higher blood pressure and a higher body mass index were associated with a higher likelihood of UO regarding heart attack risk. However, UO was not significantly associated with patient self‐management.

Conclusions

Unfavorable health behavior and risk factors are associated with UO. However, our results suggest that UO with regard to perceived heart attack risk may not be a relevant factor for patient self‐management in those with type 2 diabetes.
Impact of round‐the‐clock pharmacist inpatient medication chart review on medication errors
Authors: Ng Tat Ming , Teo Chong Junn , Heng Shi Thong , Chen Yi Rong , Lim Wan Peng , Teng Christine B
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Medication errors are common causes of preventable adverse drug events and increase the risk of morbidity and mortality. Beginning in July 2014, Tan Tock Seng Hospital Pharmacy Department (Singapore) implemented the round‐the‐clock inpatient medication chart review service by pharmacists. We evaluated the impact of this service on medication errors and the consequences of these errors.

Methods

Pharmacy intervention data from 2013 to 2015 were accessed. Severity of medication errors was defined according to the National Coordination Council for Medication Error Reporting and Prevention (NCCMERP) categories. Interrupted time series analysis was used to assess the impact of the service on monthly error rates. Consequences of medication errors were investigated in a matched case‐control analysis comparing outcomes and costs between cases with “errors” (Category D to I) and controls who had “near‐misses” (Category B). A cost analysis was done in Singapore dollars (S$).

Results

The mean number of “near‐misses” was 32.04 per 1000 patient‐days/month prior to the service. When the service was implemented, the interrupted time series analysis showed a level increase of 21.43 per 1000 patient‐days/month (95% confidence interval [CI], 14.21, 28.65, P < .01) with a positive trend change of 1.04 per 1000 patient‐days/month. Patients with “near misses” had lower median hospitalization costs (S$2673.60 interquartile range [IQR] [S$1365.70‐5336.20], vs S$6326.60 IQR [S$1926.20‐13 609.00], P = .002) and length of stay (10 days [4‐21] vs 17 days [5‐42], P = .025). No significant differences were observed for all other outcomes studied.

Conclusion

Round‐the‐clock pharmacist inpatient medication review service increased detection of “near misses” and prevented these errors from reaching patients, which may otherwise have resulted in increased hospitalization costs and length of stay.
Synthesis, anticancer evaluation, and docking studies of some novel azo chromene derivatives
Authors: Bhuvaneswari Kaliyan , Sivaguru Paramasivam , Lalitha Appaswami
Published: May 2020

We have described a simple, convenient, and high‐yielding one‐pot synthesis of novel azo chromene derivatives via a three‐component reaction of various azo aldehydes with dimedone and malononitrile using 10 mol% of 1,8‐diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene (DBU) as catalyst and ethanol as solvent at reflux condition. All the synthesized compounds have been characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and HR‐MS spectra and molecular docking was performed to explore new inhibitors of human placental aromatase cytochrome P450 and cyclooxygenase‐2 enzymes. Of all the compounds docked, compound (E)‐2‐amino‐4‐(4,4‐dimethyl‐2,6‐dioxocyclohexyl)‐6‐((3‐methoxyphenyl)diazenyl‐4H‐chromene‐3‐carbonitrile (4o) showed good binding affinity with the active site of human placental aromatase cytochrome P450 enzyme (PDB: 3EQM) with inhibition constant (Ki) 1.66 nM and compound 4o also showed good binding affinity with the active site of cyclooxygenase‐2 enzyme (PDB: 6COX) with inhibition constant (Ki) 367.17 pM. In vitro anti‐cancer activity studies against MCF‐7 cells were also performed for compounds 4o, anastrozole and celecoxib. Compound 4o showed an effective cytotoxicity at 19.8 μg/ml compared to anastrozole and celecoxib (24.7 and 26.2 μg/ml).