bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solution‐Processed Ti3C2Tx MXene Antennas for Radio‐Frequency Communication
Authors: Han Meikang , Liu Yuqiao , Rakhmanov Roman , Israel Christopher , Tajin Md Abu Saleh , Friedman Gary , Volman Vladimir , Hoorfar Ahmad , Dandekar Kapil R. , Gogotsi Yury
Published: November 2020

Highly integrated, flexible, and ultrathin wireless communication components are in significant demand due to the explosive growth of portable and wearable electronic devices in the fifth‐generation (5G) network era, but only conventional metals meet the requirements for emerging radio‐frequency (RF) devices so far. Here, it is reported on Ti3C2Tx MXene microstrip transmission lines with low‐energy attenuation and patch antennas with high‐power radiation at frequencies from 5.6 to 16.4 GHz. The radiation efficiency of a 5.5 µm thick MXene patch antenna manufactured by spray‐coating from aqueous solution reaches 99% at 16.4 GHz, which is about the same as that of a standard 35 µm thick copper patch antenna at about 15% of its thickness and 7% of the copper weight. MXene outperforms all other materials evaluated for patch antennas to date. Moreover, it is demonstrated that an MXene patch antenna array with integrated feeding circuits on a conformal surface has comparable performance with that of a copper antenna array at 28 GHz, which is a target frequency in practical 5G applications. The versatility of MXene antennas in wide frequency ranges coupled with the flexibility, scalability, and ease of solution processing makes MXene promising for integrated RF components in various flexible electronic devices.
Attenuation of Redox Switching and Rectification in Azulenequinones/Hydroquinones after B and N Doping: A First‐Principles Investigation
Authors: Haidar El‐Abed , Tawfik Sherif Abdulkader , Stampfl Catherine , Hirao Kimihiko , Yoshizawa Kazunari , Nakajima Takahito , Soliman Kamal A. , El‐Nahas Ahmed M.
Published: November 2020

The redox switching of doped 1,5‐azulenequinones/hydroquinones wired between gold electrodes is investigated using density functional theory and the nonequilibrium Green's function. Their electronic transport properties when separately doped with nitrogen and boron as well as co‐doping of these atoms are examined. The results illustrate a significant enhancement of the current at low bias voltage in some of the 12 doped studied systems, leading to “switching on” the transmission, where the greatest switching ratio is 18. These systems also exhibit a modest rectification in which the greatest rectification ratio is 4. The significance of the position of the doped atom and the functional group on the switching behavior is analyzed through the transmission spectra and molecular orbitals. The present study broadens knowledge of organic redox switching bringing in potential diverse options for future molecular electronic circuit components.
NanoMaterialsCAD: Flexible Software for the Design of Nanostructures
Authors: Nikoulis Giorgos , Grammatikopoulos Panagiotis , Steinhauer Stephan , Kioseoglou Joseph
Published: November 2020

NanoMaterialsCAD is a new open source tool dedicated to the creation, manipulation, and 3D visualization of crystalline structures at the nanoscale. It is designed for preprocessing atomistic configurations to be used as input for atomistic (e.g., molecular dynamics or Monte Carlo) or ab initio (e.g., density functional theory) computer simulations. It offers several tools for designing complex nanostructures (including nanoparticles, nanowires, nanotubes, nanoscrolls, etc., and combinations/permutations of them) which are either lacking or cumbersome in other existing packages. Through its intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) it enables facile ways to design and modify the size/shape and relative positions of nanoobjects while observing the changes in real time. NanoMaterialsCAD is written in C++, and exploits Open Graphics Library (OpenGL) (for the GUI), Win32API (for interaction with Windows), and Assembly (for fast data management). The source code and executable file are available for download from GitHub (https://github.com/cossphy/NanoMaterialsCAD). It is aspired that NanoMaterialsCAD will be adopted by the nanomaterials modeling community as a valuable resource; to this end it will be kept improving, incorporating more nanostructures, and adding extra functionalities to its toolbox.
ReS2/h‐BN/Graphene Heterostructure Based Multifunctional Devices: Tunneling Diodes, FETs, Logic Gates, and Memory
Authors: Mukherjee Bablu , Hayakawa Ryoma , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Nakaharai Shu , Wakayama Yutaka
Published: November 2020

A 2D heterostructure consisting of few‐layer direct bandgap ReS2, a thin h‐BN layer, and a monolayer graphene (Gr) for application to various electronic devices is investigated. Metal‐insulator‐semiconductor (MIS)‐type devices with 2D van‐der‐Waals (vdW) heterostructures are recently studied as important components to realize various multifunctional device applications in analogue and digital electronics. The tunnel diodes of ReS2/h‐BN/Gr exhibit light tunable rectifying behaviors with low ideality factors and nearly temperature independent electrical characteristics. The devices behave like conventional MIS‐type tunnel diodes for logic gate applications. Furthermore, similar vertical heterostructures are shown to operate in field‐effect transistors with a low threshold voltage and a memory device with a large memory gate for future multifunctional device applications.
Birth weight and body composition in 6‐to‐8 years old Maya children
Authors: Azcorra Hugo , Varela‐Silva Maria Inês , Dickinson Federico
Published: November 2020

Objective

To test the hypothesis that fetal growth, indexed by birth weight (BW), induce metabolic adjustments in the fetus that will be reflected in differences in body composition in a sample of 6‐to 8‐years old urban Maya children from Yucatan, Mexico.

Methods

We measured height (cm), weight (kg) and triceps skinfold (mm) in 260 children (boys: 132, girls: 128), and height (cm) and weight (kg) in their mothers. Body composition was estimated in children through bioelectrical impedance analysis. Outcome variables were fat free‐mass index (FFMI = fat‐free mass [kg]/height [m]2) and fat mass index (FMI = fat mass [kg]/height [m]2). The main independent variable was BW z‐scores. Multiple linear regression models were used to analyze the association between BW z‐scores and outcome variables measured during childhood. Separate analyses were done for boys and girls. Complementary models were run using outcomes as z‐scores. Models were adjusted for location, children's and mothers' age, mother's body mass index and household overcrowding index.

Results

BW in boys was positively associated with FFMI and FMI. FFMI increase 0.34 kg/m2 per 1‐SD increase in BW and FMI increase 0.40 kg/m2 per 1‐SD increase in BW. When outcomes were used as z‐scores, FFMI increase 0.24 SD and FMI increase 0.18 SD per 1‐SD increase in BW, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results are in contrast with previous findings that birth weight is more consistently associated with subsequent lean mass than with fat mass. Associations, detected only in boys, may be explained by sex differences in sensitivity to early life environments.
I+/TBHP Catalysis For Tandem Oxidative Cyclization To Indolo[2,3‐b]quinolines
Authors: Uyanik Muhammet , Tanaka Hiroki , Ishihara Kazuaki
Published: November 2020

We report a chemoselective tandem oxidative cyclization/aromatization of indole derivatives tethered to aniline sulfonamides using catalytic amount of tetrabutylammonium iodide in the presence of tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as an oxidant under nearly neutral conditions at room temperature. The corresponding indolo[2,3‐b]quinolines were obtained as sulfonate salts, which could be easily isolated in analytically pure form via only a simple filtration of the crude reaction mixture. The natural product quinindoline could be easily obtained after basic work‐up of the sulfonate salt. Control experiments revealed that both ionic and radical active species could be generated in situ under mild conditions for the corresponding oxidative transformations to proceed in a chemoselective manner.
Probabilistic Mapping of Deep Brain Stimulation: Insights from 15 Years of Therapy
Authors: Elias Gavin J. B. , Boutet Alexandre , Joel Suresh E. , Germann Jürgen , Gwun Dave , Neudorfer Clemens , Gramer Robert M. , Algarni Musleh , Paramanandam Vijayashankar , Prasad Sreeram , Beyn Michelle E. , Horn Andreas , Madhavan Radhika , Ranjan Manish , Lozano Christopher S. , Kühn Andrea A. , Ashe Jeff , Kucharczyk Walter , Munhoz Renato P. , Giacobbe Peter , Kennedy Sidney H. , Woodside D. Blake , Kalia Suneil K. , Fasano Alfonso , Hodaie Mojgan , Lozano Andres M.
Published: November 2020

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) depends on precise delivery of electrical current to target tissues. However, the specific brain structures responsible for best outcome are still debated. We applied probabilistic stimulation mapping to a retrospective, multidisorder DBS dataset assembled over 15 years at our institution (ntotal = 482 patients; nParkinson disease = 303; ndystonia = 64; ntremor = 39; ntreatment‐resistant depression/anorexia nervosa = 76) to identify the neuroanatomical substrates of optimal clinical response. Using high‐resolution structural magnetic resonance imaging and activation volume modeling, probabilistic stimulation maps (PSMs) that delineated areas of above‐mean and below‐mean response for each patient cohort were generated and defined in terms of their relationships with surrounding anatomical structures. Our results show that overlap between PSMs and individual patients' activation volumes can serve as a guide to predict clinical outcomes, but that this is not the sole determinant of response. In the future, individualized models that incorporate advancements in mapping techniques with patient‐specific clinical variables will likely contribute to the optimization of DBS target selection and improved outcomes for patients. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:426–443
Detection of Tripartite Genuine Entanglement by Two Bipartite Entangled States
Authors: Sun Yize , Chen Lin
Published: November 2020

There are practical motivations to construct genuine tripartite entangled states based on the collective use of two bipartite entangled states. Here, the case that the states are two‐qubit Werner states is considered. The intervals of parameters of two‐qubit Werner states are revealed such that the tripartite state is genuinely entangled. Furthermore, we also investigate the lower bound of genuine multipartite entanglement concurrence for tripartite qudit states. Several examples are given to show the effectiveness of the lower bound.
Masked Alkyne Equivalents for the Synthesis of Mechanically Interlocked Polyynes**
Authors: Gawel Przemyslaw , Woltering Steffen L. , Xiong Yaoyao , Christensen Kirsten E. , Anderson Harry L.
Published: November 2020

Polyyne polyrotaxanes, encapsulated cyclocarbon catenanes and other fascinating mechanically interlocked carbon‐rich architectures should become accessible if masked alkyne equivalents (MAEs) can be developed that are large enough to prevent unthreading of a macrocycle, and that can be cleanly unmasked under mild conditions. Herein, we report the synthesis of a new bulky MAE based on t‐butylbicyclo[4.3.1]decatriene. This MAE was used to synthesize a polyyne [2]rotaxane and a masked‐polyyne [3]rotaxane by Cadiot–Chodkiewicz coupling. Glaser cyclo‐oligomerization of the [2]rotaxane gave masked cyclocarbon catenanes. The unmasking behavior of the catenanes and rotaxanes was tested by photolysis at a range of UV wavelengths. Photochemical unmasking did not proceed cleanly enough to prepare extended encapsulated polyyne polyrotaxanes. We highlight the scope and challenges involved with this approach to interlocked carbon‐rich architectures.
Superseding β‐Diketiminato Ligands: An Amido Imidazoline‐2‐Imine Ligand Stabilizes the Exhaustive Series of B=X Boranes (X=O, S, Se, Te)
Authors: Dolati Hadi , Denker Lars , Trzaskowski Bartosz , Frank René
Published: November 2020

Boron reluctantly forms B=X (X=O, S, Se, Te) moieties, which has stimulated the quest for such species in the past few years. Based on the N,N′‐chelating β‐diketiminato ligand (HNacNac), a new amido imidazoline‐2‐imine ligand system (HAmIm) is presented, giving rise to the isolation of an exhaustive series of Lewis acid free, monomeric chalcogen B=X boranes with documented π‐bond character between boron and the chalcogen. The chalcogenoboranes are isoelectronic and isolobal to the respective ketones. The chemical behavior of the oxoborane (B=O) strongly resembles the classical carbonyl reactivity in C=O bonds. The improved stability provided by HAmIm arises from the formation of more‐stable five‐membered boron chelates versus the six‐membered NacNac analogues and from the imidazoline‐2‐imine moiety providing enhanced σ‐ and π‐donation. The HAmIm ligand class may supersede the widely employed NacNac system in certain applications.
Risk Factors of Postoperative Delirium in Older Adult Spine Surgery Patients: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Baek Wonhee , Kim Young Man , Lee Hyangkyu
Published: November 2020

This literature review identifies factors that may place older adult patients at risk for developing delirium after spine surgery. We conducted a meta‐analysis according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses) guidelines. Using a variety of electronic databases, we identified five studies for inclusion that represent 645 patients who were 65 years or older. The pooled incidence rate of postoperative delirium was 13.0%. Factors associated with developing postoperative delirium included preoperative opioid use, cervical spine surgery versus lumbar or thoracic spine surgery, spine fusion versus simple spine surgery, hypertension, cerebrovascular disease, pulmonary disease, duration of surgery, and infused IV fluid volume. Nurses who provide perioperative care for older adult patients undergoing spine surgery should be aware of the potential risk factors of delirium to ensure patient safety. Further research is required to clearly delineate the risk factors for postoperative delirium in older adults.
Ethylene‐propylene diene monomer‐based polymer composite for attenuation of high energy radiations
Authors: Barala Surendra Singh , Manda Vikram , Jodha Ajay Singh , Meghwal Lala Ram , C Ajay , Gopalani Deepak
Published: November 2020

Radiation shielding composites of ethylene‐propylene diene monomer (EPDM), reinforced with tungsten (W) and barium sulphate (BaSO4) in different filler weight (wt%) were synthesized. The effects of W and BaSO4 on gamma and neutron attenuation properties of the composites were studied by experimental methods using 137Cs, 60Co and 252Cf radioactive sources. EPDM composites with W and BaSO4 fillers were also investigated for filler dispersion using scanning electron microscopy and X‐ray radiograph. The experimental results revealed that the incorporation of W and BaSO4 significantly improved the radiation attenuation properties of the EPDM composites. It was observed that the attenuation properties of the composite material increases with higher concentration of the filler. The half‐value layer (HVL), tenth value layer thickness and relaxation length of the composites were found to decrease with increasing concentration of the filler. The results also showed that the attenuation behaviour of 50 wt% BaSO4 filled polymer composite is comparable to that of the composite with 25 wt% W. The developed composite with 75 wt% W filler exhibited the maximum radiation attenuation with lowest HVL thicknesses.
Synthesis of Cristobalite Containing Ordered Interstitial Mesopores using Crystallization of Silica Colloidal Crystals
Authors: Matsuno Takamichi , Nakaya Takamichi , Kuroda Yoshiyuki , Wada Hiroaki , Shimojima Atsushi , Kuroda Kazuyuki
Published: November 2020

Cristobalite with ordered interstitial dual‐sized mesopores was synthesized through the crystallization of silica colloidal crystals composed of monodispersed amorphous silica nanoparticles. An aqueous solution containing both a flux (Na2O) and a carbon precursor (an aqueous low‐molecular weight phenolic resin) was infiltrated into the interstices of silica colloidal crystals. The organic fraction in the nanocomposite was further polymerized and subsequently carbonized in an Ar flow at 750 °C to reinforce the colloidal crystal structure. The thermal treatment resulted in the crystallization of the colloidal crystals into cristobalite while retaining the porous structure. The cristobalite‐carbon nanocomposite was calcined in air to remove the carbon and create interstitial ordered mesopores in the cristobalite. The surfaces of crystalline mesoporous silica are quite different from those of various ordered mesoporous silica with amorphous frameworks; thus, the present findings will be useful for a precise understanding and control of the interfaces between the mesopores and silica networks.
Self‐Assembly of a Redox Active, Metallosupramolecular [Pd3L6]6+ Complex Using a Rotationally Flexible Ferrocene Ligand
Authors: Vasdev Roan A. S. , Findlay James A. , Turner David R. , Crowley James D.
Published: November 2020

A new ferrocene‐containing [Pd3(L4EFc)6]6+(X−)6 (C ⋅ BF4 and C ⋅ SbF6 where X=BF4− or SbF6−) self‐assembled double‐walled triangle has been synthesized from the known, rotationally flexible, 1,1′‐bis(4‐pyridylethynyl)ferrocene ligand (L4EFc), and characterized by 1H, 13C and diffusion ordered (DOSY) NMR spectroscopies, high‐resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HR−ESI−MS), X‐ray crystallography and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The molecular structures confirmed that double‐walled triangle cage systems (C ⋅ BF4 and C ⋅ SbF6) were generated. C ⋅ BF4 was shown to interact with the anionic guest, p‐toluenesulfonate. CV experiments revealed that the triangles were redox active, however addition of the guest did not influence the redox potentials.
Influence of Axial Temperature Profiles on Fe/SiO2 Catalyzed Non‐oxidative Coupling of Methane
Authors: Postma Rolf S. , Lefferts Leon
Published: November 2020

The effect of the axial temperature profile upstream and downstream of catalyst bed on the performance of non‐oxidative‐coupling‐of‐methane (NOCM) over Fe/SiO2 was determined. A three‐zone oven was used with independent temperature control of the catalyst‐zone as well as the zones upstream and downstream. It was found that catalytic initiation followed by residence time at 1000 °C downstream the catalyst bed increases CH4 conversion by a factor of 8, while decreasing carbonaceous deposit selectivity from 40 to 12 C%. Residence time at 1000 °C upstream of the catalyst bed causes deposit formation on the catalyst without significantly influencing methane conversion. A shallow catalyst bed followed by significant residence time at high temperature maximizes methane conversion and minimizes coking. This work shows that axial temperature profile and residence time upstream and downstream of the catalyst bed strongly influence the performance in catalytic NOCM.
The Si@C‐Network Electrode Prepared by an In Situ Carbonization Strategy with Enhanced Cycle Performance
Authors: Deng Li , Wu Zhan‐Yu , You Jin‐Hai , Yin Zu‐Wei , Ren Wen‐Feng , Zhang Peng‐Fang , Xu Bin‐Bin , Zhou Yao , Li Jun‐Tao
Published: November 2020

A porous and fluffy Si@C‐network electrode, in which the Si nanoparticles contact with the carbon conductive network, is prepared by an in‐situ carbonization method on a copper collector. Si nanoparticles are uniformly embedded in the 3‐dimensional fluffy carbon network, which could suppress the capacity decay resulting from the Si volume expansion during the cycling process. The Si@C‐network electrode with a high ratio (83.4 wt %) of active Si exhibits long‐term cycling stability (capacity retention of 765 mAh g−1 after 700 cycles at 2100 mA g−1) and good rate performance. The superior electrochemical performance is attributed to the continuous conductive network, which improves the conductivity of electrode and maintains the electrode structure well after 100 cycles.
Forgive and forget: Self‐stabilizing swarms in spite of Byzantine robots
Authors: Ashkenazi Yotam , Dolev Shlomi , Kamei Sayaka , Ooshita Fukuhito , Wada Koichi
Published: November 2020

In this article, we consider the case in which a swarm of robots collaborates in a mission, where a few of the robots behave maliciously. These malicious Byzantine robots may be temporally or constantly controlled by an adversary. The scope is synchronized full information robot operations, where a robot that does not follow the program/policy of the swarm is immediately identified and can be remembered as Byzantine. As robots may be suspected of being Byzantine due to benign temporal malfunctions, it is imperative to forgive and forget, otherwise, a robot cannot assume collaborative actions with any other robot in the swarm. Still, remembering for a while may facilitate a policy of surrounding, isolating and freezing the movement of the misbehaving robots, by several robots, allowing the rest to perform the swarm task with no intervention. We demonstrate the need to periodically forgive and forget to realize swarm several tasks including patrolling/cleaning in the presence of possible Byzantine robots. The policy for achieving the task consists of blocking the movement of the Byzantine robot(s) by some of the robots, while the rest patrol/clean the plane.
Interplay of Hückel and Möbius Aromaticity in Metal‐Metal Quintuple Bonded Complexes of Cr, Mo, and W with Amidinate Ligand: Ab initio DFT and Multireference Analysis**
Authors: Patra Shanti G. , Mondal Totan
Published: November 2020

The aromaticity of metal‐metal quintuple bonded complexes of the type M2L2(M=Cr, Mo, and W; L=amidinate) are studied employing gauge including magnetically induced ring current (GIMIC) analysis and electron density of delocalized bonds (EDDB). It is found that the complexes possess two types of aromaticity: i) Hückel aromaticity through delocalization of ligandπelectrons with metal‐metalδ‐bond‐forming 6 conjugated electrons (4πand 2δ) ring; ii) Craig‐Möbius aromaticity through delocalization ofπelectrons of both the ligands with metal d‐orbitals in Craig type orientation forming 10πelectrons ring with a double twist. Extended transition state natural orbital chemical valence (ETS‐NOCV) and canonical molecular orbital natural chemical shielding (CMO‐NCS) analysis confirm the Craig‐Möbius type arrangement of the orbitals. Furthermore, the unprecedented Hückel and Möbius type aromaticity is confirmed from the plot of the current pathways using 3D line integral convolution (3D‐LIC) plots. The metal‐metal bond order also increases down the group as justified from the complete active space self‐consistent field (CASSCF) analysis. Due to an increase in theπandδelectron conjugation, both the Hückel and Möbius aromaticity increase down the group.
Hydrogen‐Bond Dynamics and Energetics of Biological Water
Authors: Adhikari Aniruddha , Park Won‐Woo , Kwon Oh‐Hoon
Published: November 2020

Water molecules in the immediate vicinity of biomacromolecules and biomimetic organized assemblies often exhibit a markedly distinct behavior from that of their bulk counterparts. The overall sluggish behavior of biological water substantially affects the stability and integrity of biomolecules, as well as the successful execution of various crucial water‐mediated biochemical phenomena. In this Minireview, insights are provided into the features of truncated hydrogen‐bond networks that grant biological water its unique characteristics. In particular, experimental results and theoretical investigations, based on chemical kinetics, are presented that have shed light on the dynamics and energetics governing such characteristics. It is emphasized how such details help us to understand the energetics of biological water, an aspect relatively less explored than its dynamics. For instance, when biological water at hydrophilic or charged protein surfaces was explored, the free energy of H‐bond breakage was found to be of the order of 0.4 kcal mol−1 higher than that of bulk water.
Two‐dimensional Boron Nitride for Electronics and Energy Applications
Authors: Wang Jiemin , Zhang Liangzhu , Wang Lifeng , Lei Weiwei , Wu Zhong‐Shuai
Published: November 2020

Two‐dimensional (2D) boron nitride (BN), the so‐called “white graphene,” has demonstrated a great potential in various fields, particularly in electronics and energy, by utilizing its wide bandgap (~5.5 eV), superior thermal stability, high thermal conductance, chemical inertness, and outstanding dielectric properties. However, to further optimize the performances from the view of structure–property relationship, the determinative factors such as crystallite sizes, layer thickness, dispersibility, and surface functionalities should be precisely controlled and adjusted. Therefore, in this review, the synthesis and functionalization methods including “top‐down” and “bottom‐up” strategies, and non‐covalent and covalent modifications for 2D BN are systematically classified and discussed at first, thus catering for the requirements of versatile applications. Then, the progresses of 2D BN applied in the fields of microelectronics such as field‐effect transistors and dielectric capacitors, energy domains such as thermal energy management and conversion, and batteries and supercapacitors are summarized to highlight the importance of 2D BN. Notably, these contents not only contain the state‐of‐the‐art 2D BN composites, but also bring the current novel design of 2D BN‐based microelectronic units. Finally, the challenges and perspectives are proposed to better broaden the scope of this material. Therefore, this review will pave an all‐around way for understanding, utilizing, and applying 2D BN in future electronics and energy applications.
Exposure and Recovery from Environmentally Relevant Levels of Waterborne Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons from Deepwater Horizon Oil: Effects on the Gulf Toadfish Stress Axis
Authors: Cartolano Maria C. , Alloy Matthew M. , Milton Emily , Plotnikova Anastasiya , Mager Edward M. , McDonald M. Danielle
Published: November 2020

There is evidence that the combination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) released in the Deepwater Horizon oil spill impairs the glucocorticoid stress response of vertebrates in the Gulf of Mexico, but the mechanisms are unclear. We hypothesized that inhibition of cortisol release may be due to 1) overstimulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–inter-renal (HPI) axis, or 2) an inhibition of cortisol biosynthesis through PAH activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). Using a flow-through system, Gulf toadfish (Opsanus beta) were continuously exposed to control conditions or one of 3 environmentally relevant concentrations of PAHs from Deepwater Horizon oil (∑PAH50 = 0–3 μg L–1) for up to 7 d. One group of toadfish was then exposed to a recovery period for up to 7 d. No changes in corticotrophin-releasing factor mRNA expression, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), or pituitary mass suggested that overstimulation of the HPI axis was not a factor. The AhR activation was measured by an elevation of cytochrome P4501A1 (CYP1A) mRNA expression within the HPI axis in fish exposed to high PAH concentrations; however, CYP1A was no longer induced after 3 d of recovery in any of the tissues. At 7 d of recovery, there was an impairment of cortisol release in response to an additional simulated predator chase that does not appear to be due to changes in the mRNA expression of the kidney steroidogenic pathway proteins steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, cytochrome P450 side chain cleavage, and 11β-hydroxylase. Future analyses are needed to determine whether the stress response impairment is due to cholesterol availability and/or down-regulation of the melanocortin 2 receptor. Environ Toxicol Chem 2021;40:1062–1074. © 2020 SETAC
Update on SWI/SNF‐related gynecologic mesenchymal neoplasms: SMARCA4‐deficient uterine sarcoma and SMARCB1‐deficient vulvar neoplasms
Authors: Howitt Brooke E. , Folpe Andrew L.
Published: November 2020

Our knowledge regarding the role of genes encoding the chromatin remodeling switch/sucrose non‐fermenting (SWI/SNF) complex in the initiation and progression of gynecologic malignancies continues to evolve. This review focuses on gynecologic tumors in which the sole or primary genetic alteration is in SMARCA4 or SMARCB1, two members of the SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex. In this review, we present a brief overview of the classical example of such tumors, ovarian small cell carcinoma of hypercalcemic type, and then a detailed review and update of SMARCB1‐deficient and SMARCA4‐deficient tumors of the uterus and vulva.
Rapid and Ultrasensitive Detection of Mutations and Genes Relevant to Antimicrobial Resistance in Bacteria
Authors: Huber François , Lang Hans Peter , Lang Daniela , Wüthrich Daniel , Hinić Vladimira , Gerber Christoph , Egli Adrian , Meyer Ernst
Published: November 2020

The worldwide emergence of multidrug‐resistant (MDR) bacteria is associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Rapid and accurate diagnostic methods to detect antibiotic resistance are critical for antibiotic stewardship and infection control measurements. Here a cantilever nanosensor‐based diagnostic assay is shown to detect single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and genes associated with antibiotic resistance in Gram negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and positive (Enterococcus faecium) bacteria, representing frequent causes for MDR infections. Highly specific RNA capture probes for SNPs (ampRD135G or ampRG154R) or resistance genes (vanA, vanB, and vanD) allow to detect the binding of bacterial RNA within less than 5 min. Serial dilutions of bacterial RNA indicate an unprecedented sensitivity of 10 fg µL−1 total RNA corresponding to less than ten bacterial cells for SNPs and 1 fg µL−1 total RNA for vanD detection equivalent to single bacterial cell sensitivity.
Satellite glia as a critical component of diabetic neuropathy: Role of lipocalin‐2 and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase‐2 axis in the dorsal root ganglion
Authors: Bhusal Anup , Rahman Md Habibur , Lee Won‐Ha , Lee In‐Kyu , Suk Kyoungho
Published: November 2020

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of uncontrolled diabetes. The pathogenesis of DPN is associated with chronic inflammation in dorsal root ganglion (DRG), eventually causing structural and functional changes. Studies on DPN have primarily focused on neuronal component, and there is limited knowledge about the role of satellite glial cells (SGCs), although they completely enclose neuronal soma in DRG. Lipocalin‐2 (LCN2) is a pro‐inflammatory acute‐phase protein found in high levels in diverse neuroinflammatory and metabolic disorders. In diabetic DRG, the expression of LCN2 was increased exclusively in the SGCs. This upregulation of LCN2 in SGCs correlated with increased inflammatory responses in DRG and sciatic nerve. Furthermore, diabetes‐induced inflammation and morphological changes in DRG, as well as sciatic nerve, were attenuated in Lcn2 knockout (KO) mice. Lcn2 gene ablation also ameliorated neuropathy phenotype as determined by nerve conduction velocity and intraepidermal nerve fiber density. Mechanistically, studies using specific gene KO mice, adenovirus‐mediated gene overexpression strategy, and primary cultures of DRG SGCs and neurons have demonstrated that LCN2 enhances the expression of mitochondrial gate‐keeping regulator pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase‐2 (PDK2) through PPARβ/δ, thereby inhibiting pyruvate dehydrogenase activity and increasing production of glycolytic end product lactic acid in DRG SGCs and neurons of diabetic mice. Collectively, our findings reveal a crucial role of glial LCN2‐PPARβ/δ‐PDK2‐lactic acid axis in progression of DPN. Our results establish a link between pro‐inflammatory LCN2 and glycolytic PDK2 in DRG SGCs and neurons and propose a novel glia‐based mechanism and drug target for therapy of DPN.

Main Points

Diabetes upregulates LCN2 in satellite glia, which in turn increases pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase‐2 (PDK2) expression and lactic acid production in dorsal root ganglia (DRG).

Glial LCN2‐PDK2‐lactic acid axis in DRG plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of diabetic neuropathy.
Adolescent use of hair dyes, straighteners and perms in relation to breast cancer risk
Authors: White Alexandra J. , Gregoire Allyson M. , Taylor Kyla W. , Eberle Carolyn , Gaston Symielle , O'Brien Katie M. , Jackson Chandra L. , Sandler Dale P.
Published: November 2020

Hair products can contain hormonally active and carcinogenic compounds. Adolescence may be a period of enhanced susceptibility of the breast tissue to exposure to chemicals. We therefore evaluated associations between adolescent hair product use and breast cancer risk. Sister Study participants (ages 35‐74 years) who had completed enrollment questionnaires (2003‐2009) on use of hair dyes, straighteners/relaxers and perms at ages 10 to 13 years (N = 47 522) were included. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for associations between hair products and incident breast cancer (invasive cancer or ductal carcinoma in situ), with consideration of heterogeneity by menopausal status and race/ethnicity. Over an average of 10 years of follow‐up, 3380 cases were diagnosed. Frequent use of straighteners and perms was associated with a higher risk of premenopausal (HR = 2.11, 95% CI: 1.26‐3.55 and HR = 1.55, 95% CI: 0.96‐2.53, respectively) but not postmenopausal breast cancer (HR = 0.99, 95% CI: 0.76‐1.30 and HR = 1.09, 95% CI: 0.89‐1.35, respectively). Permanent hair dye use during adolescence was uncommon (<3%) and not associated with breast cancer overall (HR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.78‐1.20), though any permanent dye use was associated with a higher risk among black women (HR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.01‐3.11). Although frequency of use of perms (37% non‐Hispanic white vs 9% black) and straighteners (3% non‐Hispanic white vs 75% black) varied by race/ethnicity, associations with breast cancer did not. Use of hair products, specifically perms and straighteners, during adolescence may be associated with a higher risk of premenopausal breast cancer.
Targeting CTLA‐4 in cancer: Is it the ideal companion for PD‐1 blockade immunotherapy combinations?
Authors: De Silva Pushpamali , Aiello Marco , Gu‐Trantien Chunyan , Migliori Edoardo , Willard‐Gallo Karen , Solinas Cinzia
Published: November 2020

Immunotherapy approaches boosting spontaneous and durable antitumor immune responses through immune checkpoint blockade are revolutionizing treatment and patient outcomes in solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Among the various inhibitory molecules employed by the immune system to regulate the adaptive immune responses, cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen‐4 (CTLA‐4) is the first successfully targeted immune checkpoint molecule in the clinic, giving rise to significant but selective benefit either when targeted alone or in combination with anti‐programmed cell death protein‐1 (PD‐1) antibodies (Abs). However, the use of anti‐CTLA‐4 Abs was associated with the incidence of autoimmune‐like adverse events (AEs), which were particularly frequent and severe with the use of combinational strategies. Nevertheless, the higher incidence of AEs is associated with an improved clinical benefit indicating treatment response. A prompt recognition of AEs followed by early and adequate treatment with immunosuppressive agents allows the management of these potentially serious AEs. This narrative review aims to summarize CTLA‐4 biology, the rationale for the use as a companion for anti‐PD‐1 Abs in humans with results from the most relevant Phase III clinical trials including anti‐CTLA‐4 Abs in combination with anti‐PD‐1 Abs in solid tumors.
Comprehensive trends in incidence, treatment, survival and mortality of first primary invasive breast cancer stratified by age, stage and receptor subtype in the Netherlands between 1989 and 2017
Authors: van der Meer Daniël J. , Kramer Iris , van Maaren Marissa C. , van Diest Paul J. , C. Linn Sabine , Maduro John H. , J.A. Strobbe Luc , Siesling Sabine , Schmidt Marjanka K. , Voogd Adri C.
Published: November 2020

Our study aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of trends in incidence, survival, mortality and treatment of first primary invasive breast cancer (BC), according to age, stage and receptor subtype in the Netherlands between 1989 and 2017. Data from all women diagnosed with first primary stage I to IV BC (N = 320 249) were obtained from the Netherlands Cancer Registry. BC mortality and general population data were retrieved from Statistics Netherlands. Age‐standardised incidence and mortality rates were calculated with annual percentage change (APC) and average annual percentage change (AAPC) statistics. The relative survival (RS) was used as estimator for disease‐specific survival. The BC incidence for all BC patients combined significantly increased until 2013 from 126 to 158 per 100 000 person‐years, after which a declining trend was observed. Surgery became less extensive, but (neo‐)adjuvant systemic treatments and their combinations were given more frequently. The RS improved for all age groups and for most stages and receptor subtypes, but remained stable for all subtypes since 2012 to 2013 and since 2000 to 2009 for Stage IV BC at 15 years of follow‐up. Overall, the 5‐ and 10‐year RS increased from 76.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 76.1, 77.4) and 55.9% (95% CI: 54.7, 57.1) in 1989 to 1999 to 91.0% (95% CI: 90.5, 91.5) and 82.9% (95% CI: 82.2, 83.5), respectively, in 2010 to 2016. BC mortality improved regardless of age and overall decreased from 57 to 35 per 100 000 person‐years between 1989 and 2017. In conclusion, the BC incidence in the Netherlands has steadily increased since 1989, but the latest trends show promising declines. Survival improved markedly for most patients and the mortality decreased regardless of age.
Tumor‐secreted proliferin‐1 regulates adipogenesis and lipolysis in cachexia
Authors: Nguyen Tuan Duc , Miyatake Yuji , Yoshida Takeshi , Kawahara Hironori , Hanayama Rikinari
Published: November 2020

Cancer‐associated cachexia (CAC) is a common syndrome in cancer patients and is characterized by loss of body weight accompanied by the atrophy of fat and skeletal muscle. Metabolic changes are a critical factor in CAC; however, the mechanisms through which tumors inhibit adipogenesis and promote lipolysis are poorly understood. To clarify these mechanisms, we investigated adipogenesis‐limiting factors released by tumors in a cell culture system. We identified proliferin‐1 (PLF‐1), a member of the growth hormone/prolactin gene family, as a key factor secreted from certain tumors that inhibited preadipocyte maturation and promoted the lipolysis of mature adipocytes. Importantly, mice transplanted with PLF‐1‐depleted tumor cells were protected from fat loss due to CAC. These data show that tumor‐secreted PLF‐1 plays an essential role in impaired adipogenesis and accelerated lipolysis and is a potential therapeutic target against CAC.
Utility of whole‐body diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging in the management of treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer
Authors: Kurashina Ryo , Kijima Toshiki , Okazaki Akihito , Fuchizawa Hirotaka , Suzuki Issei , Sakamoto Kazumasa , Betsunoh Hironori , Fukabori Yoshitatsu , Yashi Masahiro , Kamai Takao
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer, a rare and aggressive malignancy that emerges during androgen deprivation therapy characterized by low serum prostate‐specific antigen concentrations, is challenging to monitor because it is associated with predominantly visceral and lytic bone metastases.

Case presentation

We describe the case of a 69‐year‐old man with treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer in whom the treatment response could be monitored using whole‐body diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging in addition to serum concentrations of neuroendocrine markers. The patient responded well to platinum‐based chemotherapy and achieved a complete response, as evidenced by these diagnostic modalities.

Conclusion

Our case suggests that whole‐body diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging is useful in disease management for treatment‐related neuroendocrine prostate cancer as well as the potential evaluation of mixed responses and treatment resistance.
Polyvinyl alcohol and pectin blended films: Preparation, characterization, and mesenchymal stem cells attachment
Authors: Kraskouski Aliaksandr , Hileuskaya Kseniya , Kulikouskaya Viktoryia , Kabanava Volha , Agabekov Vladimir , Pinchuk Sergei , Vasilevich Irina , Volotovski Igor , Kuznetsova Tatyana , Lapitskaya Vasilina
Published: November 2020

The design of novel wound dressings for chronic wound treatment is still of great importance. One of the promising approaches is application of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), immobilized on a flexible polymer film, for healing. In this study, blended films based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and pectin with different component ratio have been prepared by solution casting method and evaluated. Physicochemical properties of the formed PVA/pectin films, including their morphology, wettability, swelling, stability, mechanical characteristics, have been studied. We demonstrated that the surface of PVA/pectin films could be modified by ultraviolet or dielectric barrier discharge plasma exposure. After both ultraviolet and plasma treatment, the hydrophilicity of PVA/pectin films increased. It has been shown that additional crosslinking of PVA/pectin films with glutaraldehyde resulted in reinforcement of their structure. MSCs were cultured on neat and modified PVA/pectin samples to evaluate the effects of film characteristics and composition on cell behavior. It has been determined that MSCs effectively adhered to glutaraldehyde‐crosslinked PVA/pectin films and formed on them the monolayer culture of fibroblast‐like cells. The additional modification of PVA/pectin films with collagen resulted in enhancement of MSCs adhesion. Our results show that the obtained PVA/pectin films with adhered MSCs can be suggested for potential application as a part of novel complex wound dressings.
Development of a dinutuximab delivery system using silk foams for GD2 targeted neuroblastoma cell death
Authors: Ornell Kimberly J. , Chiu Bill , Coburn Jeannine M.
Published: November 2020

Neuroblastoma is the most common extracranial solid tumor of childhood and is associated with poor survival in high risk patients. Recently, dinutuximab (DNX) has emerged as an effective immunotherapy to treat patients with high risk neuroblastoma. DNX works through the induction of cell lysis via complement‐dependent cytotoxicity (CDC) or antibody dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). However, one third of patients who undergo DNX treatment exhibit tumor relapse and the therapy is dose limited by side effects such as severe pain. To overcome delivery challenges of DNX, including large size and dose limiting side effects, we fabricated a delivery system capable of sustained local delivery of bioactive DNX utilizing silk fibroin. We evaluated the impact of silk properties (MW, crystallinity, and concentration) on release properties and confirmed the bioactivity of the release product. Additionally, we observed that the effectiveness of CDC induction by DNX could be correlated to the GD2 expression level of the target cells, with both the intravenous DNX formulation and the released DNX. Collectively, these data highlights a strategy to overcome delivery challenges and potentially improve therapeutic efficacy in cells expressing heterogenous levels of GD2.
Fluorine‐incorporated TiO2 nanotopography enhances adhesion and differentiation through ERK/CREB pathway
Authors: Ro Hyang‐Seon , Park Hee‐Jung , Seo Young‐Kwon
Published: November 2020

This study compared the topography of different titanium surface structures (TiO2 nanotube and grain) with similar elemental compositions (TiO2 and fluorine [F]) on the Ti surface. High magnification indicated that the surfaces of the control and etching groups were similar to each other in a flat, smooth form. The group anodized for 1 h was observed with TiO2 nanotubes organized very neatly and regularly. In the group anodized for 30 min after etching, uneven wave and nanopore structures were observed. In addition, MTT assay showed that the F of the surface did not adversely affect cell viability, and the initial cell adhesion was increased in the 2.8% F‐incorporated TiO2 nanograin. At the edge of adherent cells, filopodia were observed in spreading form on the surfaces of the anodizing and two‐step processing groups, and they were observed in a branch shape in the control and etching groups. Moreover, cell adhesion molecule and osteogenesis marker expression was increased at the F‐incorporated TiO2 nanostructure. In addition, it was found that the expression of p‐extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) and p‐cAMP response element‐binding protein (CREB) increased in the TiO2 nanograin with the nanopore surface compared to the micro rough and nanotube surfaces relative to the osteogenic‐related gene expression patterns. As a result, this study confirmed that the topographic structure of the surface is more affected by osteogenic differentiation than the pore size and that differentiation by specific surface composition components is by CREB. Thus, the synergy effect of osteogenic differentiation was confirmed by the simultaneous activation of CREB/ERK.
Roughness and wettability of titanium implant surfaces modify the salivary pellicle composition
Authors: Martínez‐Hernández Miryam , Hannig Matthias , García‐Pérez Victor I. , Olivares‐Navarrete Rene , Fecher‐Trost Claudia , Almaguer‐Flores Argelia
Published: November 2020

This study reports the differences in the protein composition of salivary pellicles formed under in situ conditions on two Titanium (Ti) surfaces, with different roughness and wettability. Smooth pretreatment Ti surfaces (Ti‐PT) with an average roughness (Ra) of 0.45 μm and a water contact angle (WCA) of 92.4°, as well as a more rough sandblasted, large grit, acid‐etched treatment Ti surfaces (Ti‐SLA) with a Ra of 3.3 μm and WCA of 131.8°, were tested. The salivary pellicles were quantitatively analyzed by bicinchoninic acid assays, and the protein identification was performed by Nano‐LC–MS/MS (nano mass spectrometry). Protein levels of 2.5, and 9.1 μg/ml were quantified from the detached salivary pellicle formed on the Ti‐PT and Ti‐SLA surfaces, respectively. Using Nano‐LC–MS/MS, a total of 597 proteins were identified on all the substrates tested; 43 proteins were identified only on the Ti‐PT, and 226 proteins were adsorbed solely on the Ti‐SLA substrates. The physicochemical characteristics of the Ti implant surfaces modified the amount and the identity of the salivary proteome of the pellicles formed, confirming the high selectivity of the protein pellicle formed on a surface once is exposed in the oral cavity.