bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flexible Ti3C2Tx@Al electrodes with Ultrahigh Areal Capacitance: In Situ Regulation of Interlayer Conductivity and Spacing
Authors: Guo Miao , Liu Chengbin , Zhang Zezhong , Zhou Jian , Tang Yanhong , Luo Shenglian
Published: July 2018

Although Ti3C2 MXene has shown great potential in energy storage field, poor conductivity and restacking between MXene flakes seriously hinders the maximization of its capacitance. Herein, a new strategy to solve the problems is developed. Gallery Al atoms in Ti3AlC2 are partially removed by simple hydrothermal etching to get Ti3C2Tx reserving appropriate Al interlayers (Ti3C2Tx@Al). Ti3C2Tx@Al keeps stable layered structure rather than isolated Ti3C2Tx flakes, which avoids flake restacking. The removal of partial Al frees up space for easy electrolyte infiltration while the reserved Al as “electron bridges” ensures high interlayer conductivity. As a result, the areal capacitance reaches up to 1087 mF cm−2 at 1 mA cm−2 and over 95% capacitance is maintained after 6000 cycles. The all‐solid‐state supercapacitor (ASSS) based on Ti3C2Tx@Al delivers a high capacitance of 242.3 mF cm−2 at 1 mV s−1 and exhibits stable performance at different bending states. Two ASSSs in tandem can light up a light‐emitting diode under the planar or wrapping around an arm. The established strategy provides a new avenue to improve capacitance performances of MXenes.
Functionalization of Graphene Oxide Films with Au and MoOx Nanoparticles as Efficient p‐Contact Electrodes for Inverted Planar Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Bhosale Sumit S. , Jokar Efat , Fathi Amir , Tsai Cheng‐Min , Wang Chi‐Yung , Diau Eric Wei‐Guang
Published: July 2018

A graphene oxide (GO) film is functionalized with metal (Au) and metal‐oxide (MoOx) nanoparticles (NPs) as a hole‐extraction layer for high‐performance inverted planar‐heterojunction perovskite solar cells (PSCs). These NPs can increase the work function of GO, which is confirmed with X‐ray photoelectron spectra, Kelvin probe force microscopy, and ultraviolet photoelectron spectra measurements. The down‐shifts of work functions lead to a decreased level of potential energy and hence increased Voc of the PSC devices. Although the GO‐AuNP film shows rapid hole extraction and increased Voc, a Jsc improvement is not observed because of localization of the extracted holes inside the AuNP that leads to rapid charge recombination, which is confirmed with transient photoelectric measurements. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the GO‐AuNP device attains 14.6%, which is comparable with that of the GO‐based device (14.4%). In contrast, the rapid hole extraction from perovskite to the GO‐MoOx layer does not cause trapping of holes and delocalization of holes in the GO film accelerates rapid charge transfer to the indium tin oxide substrate; charge recombination in the perovskite/GO‐MoOx interface is hence significantly retarded. The GO‐MoOx device consequently shows significantly enhanced Voc and Jsc, for which its device performance attains PCE of 16.7% with great reproducibility and enduring stability.
A Wrinkled PEDOT:PSS Film Based Stretchable and Transparent Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Wearable Energy Harvesters and Active Motion Sensors
Authors: Wen Zhen , Yang Yanqin , Sun Na , Li Gengfei , Liu Yina , Chen Chen , Shi Jihong , Xie Lingjie , Jiang Hongxue , Bao Dequan , Zhuo Qiqi , Sun Xuhui
Published: July 2018

The functionalized conductive polymer is a promising choice for flexible triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) for harvesting human motion energy still poses challenges. In this work, a transparent and stretchable wrinkled poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(4‐styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) electrode based TENG (WP‐TENG) is fabricated. The optimum conductivity and transparency of PEDOT:PSS electrode can reach 0.14 kΩ □−1 and 90%, respectively, with maximum strain of ≈100%. Operating in single‐electrode mode at 2.5 Hz, the WP‐TENG with an area of 6 × 3 cm2 produces an open‐circuit voltage of 180 V, short‐circuit current of 22.6 µA, and average power density of 4.06 mW m−2. It can be worn on the wrist to harvest hand tapping energy and charge the capacitor to 2 V in ≈3.5 min, and then drive an electronic watch. Furthermore, the WP‐TENG as the human motion monitoring sensor could inspect the bending angle of the elbow and joint by analyzing the peak value of voltage and monitor the motion frequency by counting the peak number. The triboelectric mechanism also enables the WP‐TENG to realize high‐performance active tactile sensing. The assembled 3 pixel × 3 pixel tactile sensor array is fabricated for mapping the touch location or recording the shape of object contacted with the sensor array.
Prevention of Type 1 Diabetes with Acetalated Dextran Microparticles Containing Rapamycin and Pancreatic Peptide P31
Authors: Chen Naihan , Kroger Charles J. , Tisch Roland M. , Bachelder Eric M. , Ainslie Kristy M.
Published: July 2018

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a common autoimmune disease with no cure. T1D subjects are dependent on daily exogenous insulin administration, due to the loss of functional insulin‐producing β cells. Needed are immunotherapies that prevent and/or treat T1D. One approach of immunotherapy is to administer an autoantigen to selectively tolerize diabetogenic effector T cells without global immunosuppression. To date, however, strategies of antigen‐specific immunotherapy are largely ineffective in the clinic. Using an antigen‐specific approach, a biodegradable polymeric delivery vehicle, acetalated dextran microparticles (Ace‐DEX MPs), is applied and T1D development is prevented through coadministration of the immunosuppressant rapamycin and the diabetogenic peptide P31 (Rapa/P31/MPs), via alterations of both innate and adaptive immunity. Ex vivo, adoptively transferred CD4+ T cells exhibit reduced proliferation and an increased ratio of FoxP3+ to IFNγ+ T cells. In vitro analysis indicates dendritic cells exhibit a less mature phenotype following coculture with Rapa/P31/MPs, which results in reduced CD4+ T cell proliferation and proinflammatory cytokine production (IFNγ and IL‐2), but promotes PD‐1 expression. Together these results demonstrate Ace‐DEX MP‐based antigen‐specific therapy effectively tolerizes diabetogenic CD4+ T cells to prevent T1D, thereby demonstrating one of the first successful attempts of T1D prevention using a single‐formulation particulate delivery platform.
Printable Graphene Oxide Micropatterns for a Bio‐Subretinal Chip
Authors: Yang Jia‐Wei , Tseng Ming‐Liang , Fu Yu‐Min , Kang Che‐Hao , Cheng Yu‐Ting , Kuo Po‐Han , Tzeng Chi‐Kuan , Chiou Shih‐Hwa , Wu Chung‐Yu , Chen Guan‐Yu
Published: July 2018

Recently, implantable artificial subretinal chips using electronic components have replaced photoreceptors to serve as the most feasible treatment for retinal diseases. As such a chip that is meant to be implanted and used for very long periods, growing retinal cells on it to improve the electrical stimulation efficiency and attraction of neuronal elements remains a challenge. Here, an inkjet printing technology is employed to create graphene oxide (GO) micropatterns onto microelectrodes of a photovoltaic‐powered implantable retinal chip. These GO micropatterns allow human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells to specially attach and grow in each microelectrode. In addition, the cell proliferation, viability, and tight junction of RPE cells are improved during culturing. The development of a simple surface‐coating technology would pave the way for the development of the first fully integrated and encapsulated retinal prostheses with biocompatible on‐chip microelectrodes for long‐term implantation, which could be effectively applied in retina tissue engineering and therapy.
Near‐Infrared II Dye‐Protein Complex for Biomedical Imaging and Imaging‐Guided Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Zeng Xiaodong , Xiao Yuling , Lin Jiacheng , Li Shanshan , Zhou Hui , Nong Jinxia , Xu Guozhen , Wang Hongbo , Xu Fuchun , Wu Junzhu , Deng Zixin , Hong Xuechuan
Published: July 2018

The development of novel biodegradable and nontoxic fluorophores that integrate diagnosis and therapy for effective cancer treatment has obtained tremendous attention in the past decades. In this report, water‐soluble and biocompatible small‐molecule near‐infrared II (NIR‐II) fluorescent dye H2a‐4T complexed with fetal bovine serum (FBS) and Cetuximab proteins with excellent optical properties and targeting ability is prepared. High spatial and temporal resolution imaging of hind limb vasculature and the lymphatic system of living mice using H2a‐4T@FBS complex is demonstrated in precise NIR‐II imaging‐guided sentinel lymph node surgery. More importantly, H2a‐4T@Cetuximab complex not only exhibits a remarkable cell‐killing ability but also achieves highly active tumor targeting efficiency for epidermal growth factor receptor, overexpressing colorectal cancer which is beneficial to in vivo NIR‐II fluorescent imaging‐guided photothermal therapy of colon tumors. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time that the concept of light‐harvesting complex is exploited for enhancing the NIR‐II signals and photothermal energy conversion in molecule‐protein complex theranostic agent, making them a promising candidate for future clinical applications in cancer theranostics.
Strategies toward Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Qiong , Abate Antonio
Published: July 2018

Several strategies are proposed and implemented to improve the stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The authors separate strategies toward stable PSCs according to the long‐term, hundreds of hours, and short‐term, minutes to hours, stability issue encountered in the operation of PSCs under standard working condition—light and load. To enhance the long‐term stability, the authors can rely on technological solutions such as encapsulation of the full device, application of hydrophobic hole selective materials, insertion of a polymer layer on top of perovskite film and enhancement of the intrinsic stability of perovskite material itself via tuning the composition. For the short‐term stability, which is mainly linked to formation and migration of ionic defects within the perovskite, bulk and interface passivation of perovskite film are demonstrated to be critically important. This article summarizes and analyzes the most recent updated strategies that are progressing PSCs toward commercialization.
Microcompartments with Strong and Dynamic Self‐Repairing Shells
Authors: Moore David G. , Moser Thierry A. , Rühs Patrick A. , Studart André R.
Published: July 2018

Microcompartments are useful for the storage, controlled reaction, and release of active compounds. However, the useful lifetime of a microcompartment is generally ended when it ruptures. Here, a self‐repairing microcompartment is proposed whose dynamic polymer shell can seal after rupturing, thus extending the lifetime of the capsule and allowing for multiple mechanically‐stimulated release events. The dynamic polymer shell is created in a one‐step approach through the formation of a double network polymer in the oil phase of a double emulsion template made by microfluidics. Of the two networks, a permanently‐crosslinked network is introduced to elastically restore the shape of the microcompartment, while a dynamically‐crosslinked network forms new bonds across crack interfaces. By quantifying the timescales required for the formation of new dynamic bonds within ruptured shells, strong microcompartments with predictable strength recovery and self‐repairing capabilities are successfully prepared and used to demonstrate the possibility of mechanically‐stimulated multiple release of cargo molecules.
Highly Permeable, Directional Water Transport Cotton Fabrics
Authors: Wang Hongxia , Zhou Hua , Wei Xin , Niu Haitao , Lin Tong
Published: July 2018

A novel concept of preparing directional water transport cotton fabrics with high air permeability even if at a fully wetted state is demonstrated here. A two‐step electrospraying technique is employed to form a superhydrophobic pattern array on cotton fabric at the first step followed by single‐side electrospray treatment. The superhydrophobic pattern plays key roles not only in maintaining the cotton fabric at a high air permeability in wet state but also in enhancing one‐way transport capacity. In comparison to the single side electrosprayed fabric, which shows directional water transport property without superhydrophobic pattern, the one with a superhydrophobic pattern has 1.89 times higher one‐way transport index, whereas its air permeability is just reduced by 1.8% when it is wetted with water. This novel concept may be useful for design of high performance moisture management fabrics for various applications.
Janus Structural Color from a 2D Photonic Crystal Hybrid with a Fabry–Perot Cavity
Authors: Li Chang , Zhao Maoxiong , Zhou Xue , Li Huizeng , Wang Yang , Hu Xiaotian , Li Mingzhu , Shi Lei , Song Yanlin
Published: July 2018

Structural colors are widely applied for their stability and their sophisticated optical responses. However, these colors always appear washed‐out or pale assigning to the defect hardly avoided in the manufacturing procedures. It is still a challenge to bring multifunctional vivid color via a facile method. A composite structure combining 2D photonic crystal and Fabry–Perot cavity by a simple and convenient method is constructed here. Various metallic colors with tunable hue and high saturation are produced by the composite structure. What is more, an obvious optical Janus effect is created by the composite structure. Iridescent colors can be observed when viewing from the same side of incident light but only pale colors can be seen from the opposite side. The hues and saturation of the colors can be adjusted by the parameters of the composite structure. The experimental results indicate that the color is derived from the synergistic effect of the interference, the diffraction, and the Rayleigh scattering of the composite structure. The facile composite photonic structure pioneers a new way for art, architecture, and security features in anticounterfeiting materials.
Syntheses of Lactams by Tandem Reactions
Authors: Meazza Marta , Companyó Xavier , Rios Ramon
Published: July 2018

Tandem reactions form two or more new bonds, sequentially and in only one step, avoiding the purification of each step and the use of protecting groups, thus making them greener procedures. Lactams are cyclic amides present in numerous natural products and pharmaceuticals, therefore the development of new methodologies for their synthesis attracted the attention of synthetic chemists. The aim of this review is to summarize the last advances, since 2012, in the synthesis of lactams through tandem reactions.
High‐Frequency Oscillations in the Normal Human Brain
Authors: Frauscher Birgit , von Ellenrieder Nicolás , Zelmann Rina , Rogers Christine , Nguyen Dang Khoa , Kahane Philippe , Dubeau François , Gotman Jean
Published: July 2018

Objective

High‐frequency oscillations (HFOs) are a promising biomarker for the epileptogenic zone. It has not been possible, however, to differentiate physiological from pathological HFOs, and baseline rates of HFO occurrence vary substantially across brain regions. This project establishes region‐specific normative values for physiological HFOs and high‐frequency activity (HFA).

Methods

Intracerebral stereo‐encephalographic recordings with channels displaying normal physiological activity from nonlesional tissue were selected from 2 tertiary epilepsy centers. Twenty‐minute sections from N2/N3 sleep were selected for automatic detection of ripples (80–250Hz), fast ripples (>250Hz), and HFA defined as long‐lasting activity > 80Hz. Normative values are provided for 17 brain regions.

Results

A total of 1,171 bipolar channels with normal physiological activity from 71 patients were analyzed. The highest rates of ripples were recorded in the occipital cortex, medial and basal temporal region, transverse temporal gyrus and planum temporale, pre‐ and postcentral gyri, and medial parietal lobe. The mean rate of fast ripples was very low (0.038/min). Only 5% of channels had a rate > 0.2/min HFA was observed in the medial occipital lobe, pre‐ and postcentral gyri, transverse temporal gyri and planum temporale, and lateral occipital lobe.

Interpretation

This multicenter atlas is the first to provide region‐specific normative values for physiological HFO rates and HFA in common stereotactic space; rates above these can now be considered pathological. Physiological ripples are frequent in eloquent cortex. In contrast, physiological fast ripples are very rare, making fast ripples a good candidate for defining the epileptogenic zone. Ann Neurol 2018;84:374–385
[FeFe]‐Hydrogenase Mimetic Metallopolymers with Enhanced Catalytic Activity for Hydrogen Production in Water
Authors: Brezinski William P. , Karayilan Metin , Clary Kayla E. , Pavlopoulos Nicholas G. , Li Sipei , Fu Liye , Matyjaszewski Krzysztof , Evans Dennis H. , Glass Richard S. , Lichtenberger Dennis L. , Pyun Jeffrey
Published: July 2018

Electrocatalytic [FeFe]‐hydrogenase mimics for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) generally suffer from low activity, high overpotential, aggregation, oxygen sensitivity, and low solubility in water. By using atom‐transfer radical polymerization (ATRP), a new class of [FeFe]‐metallopolymers with precise molar mass, defined composition, and low polydispersity, has been prepared. The synthetic methodology introduced here allows facile variation of polymer composition to optimize the [FeFe] solubility, activity, and long‐term chemical and aerobic stability. Water soluble functional metallopolymers facilitate electrocatalytic hydrogen production in neutral water with loadings as low as 2 ppm and operate at rates an order of magnitude faster than hydrogenases (2.5×105 s−1), and with low overpotential requirement. Furthermore, unlike the hydrogenases, these systems are insensitive to oxygen during catalysis, with turnover numbers on the order of 40 000 under both anaerobic and aerobic conditions.
Quantifying the Thermodynamics of Ligand Binding to CsPbBr3 Quantum Dots
Authors: Smock Sara R. , Williams Travis J. , Brutchey Richard L.
Published: July 2018

Cesium lead halide perovskites are an emerging class of quantum dots (QDs) that have shown promise in a variety of applications; however, their properties are highly dependent on their surface chemistry. To this point, the thermodynamics of ligand binding remain unstudied. Herein, 1H NMR methods were used to quantify the thermodynamics of ligand exchange on CsPbBr3 QDs. Both oleic acid and oleylamine native ligands dynamically interact with the CsPbBr3 QD surface, having individual surface densities of 1.2–1.7 nm−2. 10‐Undecenoic acid undergoes an exergonic exchange equilibrium with bound oleate (Keq=1.97) at 25 °C while 10‐undecenylphosphonic acid undergoes irreversible ligand exchange. Undec‐10‐en‐1‐amine exergonically exchanges with oleylamine (Keq=2.52) at 25 °C. Exchange occurs with carboxylic acids, phosphonic acids, and amines on CsPbBr3 QDs without etching of the nanocrystal surface; increases in the steady‐state PL intensities correlate with more strongly bound conjugate base ligands.
A Pyrolysis‐Free Covalent Organic Polymer for Oxygen Reduction
Authors: Guo Jianing , Lin Chun‐Yu , Xia Zhenhai , Xiang Zhonghua
Published: July 2018

Highly efficient electrocatalysts derived from metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) have been developed. However, the subsequent pyrolysis is often needed owing to their poor intrinsic electrical conductivity, leading to undesirable structure changes and destruction of the original fine structure. Now, hybrid electrocatalysts were formed by self‐assembling pristine covalent organic polymer (COP) with reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The electrical conductivity of the hybridized COP/rGO materials is increased by more than seven orders of magnitude (from 3.06×10−9 to 2.56×10−1 S m−1) compared with pure COPs. The ORR activities of the hybrid are enhanced significantly by the synergetic effect between highly active COP and highly conductive rGO. This COP/rGO hybrid catalyst exhibited a remarkable positive half‐wave (150 mV).
Yogurt Fortification with Chickpea (Cicer arietinum) Flour: Physicochemical and Sensory Effects
Authors: Chen Xi , Singh Mukti , Bhargava Kanika , Ramanathan Ranjith
Published: July 2018

Yogurt, a popular dairy product made by bacterial fermentation of milk, is a nutritious food that contains probiotics beneficial for digestive health. Protein fortification is an effective way to design foods with increased satiety. Chickpea is rich in protein, fiber, and prebiotics and can be a source for enhancing the nutritional quality of food products while providing functional attributes of macromolecules and promoting probiotic growth. The present study evaluated the effects of the addition of chickpea flour (1%, 2%, 3%, or 5%, w/v, level) on selected quality parameters of yogurt of 2% fat‐containing milk that was inoculated with a yogurt culture, fermented, and stored at 4 °C up to 21 days. The results demonstrated that addition of chickpea flour to the yogurt mix promoted the growth of bacteria during yogurt making, and decreased the incubation time. Fortification of yogurt with 1% and 2% chickpea flour provided a significant improvement in the viscosity of stored yogurt. Chickpea flour stimulated the growth of probiotic bacteria and maintained higher counts over the 21‐day refrigerated storage. Sensory evaluation revealed no significant influence on the acceptance scores of yogurt with addition of 1% or 2% of chickpea flour. The results suggest that addition of chickpea flour up to 2% level can be an option to enhance the protein level of yogurt without adverse effects on product qualities and sensorial properties.
Drifting buoy pressures: Impact on NWP
Authors: Ingleby Bruce , Isaksen Lars
Published: July 2018

This study was conducted to assess the impact on NWP and to provide guidance on drifting buoy observation density, with particular attention to the North Atlantic. The impact of halving the buoy density was studied using observing system experiments; as expected half the density has more than half the impact, but there is still scope for improvement with a higher density of observations. For drifting buoy pressure data, both large observation‐minus‐background differences and large forecast sensitivity tend to be in synoptically active, cyclogenesis regions. It is noted that almost half of drifting buoys do not have a pressure sensor—this is regrettable given the importance of pressure data in remote oceanic areas.
Remote sensing of deep convection within a tropical‐like cyclone over the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Dafis Stavros , Rysman Jean‐Francois , Claud Chantal , Flaounas Emmanouil
Published: July 2018

The Mediterranean basin occasionally hosts tropical‐like cyclones named “Medicanes”. Medicanes may have intensity comparable to hurricanes in terms of wind speeds along with an axisymmetric cloud structure. Although these events can be particularly violent, very few studies so far have investigated the distribution and temporal evolution of deep convection within these cyclones. In this study, the characteristics and lifetime of deep convection and lightning activity surrounding the core of the longest‐lasting and probably the most intense Medicane ever recorded in terms of wind speed (Rolf, November 2011) are presented by all available means of microwave and infrared satellite retrievals and a lightning detection system. Results showed that deep convective clouds penetrated the lowest stratosphere and were wrapped around the cyclone centre during the intensification period. Lightning activity was mostly active about a day before the maximum strength of the cyclone studied and it was not temporarily correlated with the most intense deep convection activity. Overall, this study reveals that spatial and temporal distribution of deep convection and lightning activity around the centre of Rolf show more similarities with Tropical Cyclones than intense Mediterranean cyclones.
An interactive approach for illustrating a proof of the sampling theorem using MATHEMATICA
Authors: Guerrero Fabio G.
Published: July 2018

Learning methods in engineering education should evolve to take advantage of the progress of technology. Despite being one of the most important theorems of engineering, at undergraduate level the foundations of sampling theorem are usually oversimplified, whereas at graduate level its proof is frequently presented in the context of a rigorous mathematical framework. This paper presents an interactive approach to illustrate an amenable proof of the sampling theorem through example. Apart from its practical value as a learning tool, the proof captures some mathematical subtleties that can help to understand some more advanced concepts. The goal of this work is to show that learning the sampling theorem through an interactive example of its mathematical proof can be an enjoyable and insightful experience.
A prospective Phase II study to examine the relationship between quality of life and adverse events of first‐line chemotherapy plus cetuximab in patients with KRAS wild‐type unresectable metastatic colorectal cancer: QUACK trial
Authors: Iwamoto Shigeyoshi , Ooki Akira , Morita Satoshi , Hara Hiroki , Tanioka Hiroaki , Satake Hironaga , Kataoka Masato , Kotaka Masahito , Kagawa Yoshinori , Nakamura Masato , Shingai Tatsushi , Ishikawa Masashi , Miyake Yasuhiro , Sudo Takeshi , Hashiguchi Yojiro , Yabuno Taichi , Sakamoto Junichi , Tsuji Akihito , Ando Masahiko , Yamaguchi Kensei
Published: July 2018

A prospective trial has not been performed to investigate associations between quality of life (QOL), adverse events (AEs), and overall survival (OS) in the first‐line treatment with cetuximab plus standard chemotherapy for advanced/metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Associations between patient outcome and health‐related QOL (HRQOL) together with skin toxicity‐related QOL were prospectively evaluated using EORTC QLQ‐C30 and DLQI questionnaires. One hundred and forty mCRC patients were analyzed in this study, and 87.8% received pre‐emptive skin treatment. Skin toxicity had no clinical impact on HRQOL or skin‐related QOL during the first 8 weeks and throughout the study period. An early skin reaction with a grade ≥2 at 8 weeks was significantly associated with a favorable OS compared with a grade of ≤1 (HR, 0.50; 95% CI, 0.24‐0.95; P = .035) and was confirmed to be an independent predictor of OS (HR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.21‐0.97; P = .040). Patients symptomatic at baseline who responded to treatment had improved HRQOL compared to nonresponding patients. Severe mucositis/stomatitis had a statistically significant and clinically meaningful negative impact on HRQOL (mean changes from baseline throughout the study period in global health status were −12.64 for a grade of ≥2 vs −0.35 for a grade of 0 or 1 (P = .005)). In conclusion, severe early skin reactions predict favorable OS for patients treated with cetuximab plus chemotherapy without impairing QOL. In addition, mucositis/stomatitis was the most substantial AE compromising both QOL and treatment compliance.
Downregulation of MCT4 for lactate exchange promotes the cytotoxicity of NK cells in breast carcinoma
Authors: Long Yaping , Gao Zihe , Hu Xiao , Xiang Feng , Wu Zhaozhen , Zhang Jiahui , Han Xiao , Yin Liyong , Qin Junfang , Lan Lan , Yin Fuzai , Wang Yue
Published: July 2018

Monocarboxylate transporter‐4 (MCT4), a monocarboxylic acid transporter, demonstrates significantly increased expression in the majority of malignancies. We performed an experiment using BALB/C mice, and our results showed that ShMCT4 transfection or the pharmaceutic inhibition of MCT4 with 7acc1 strengthens the activity of NK cells. The results of a calcein assay revealed that the cytotoxicity of NK cells was strengthened via inhibition of MCT4. In addition, ELISA testing showed that the content of perforin and CD107a was increased, and PCR amplification and immunoblotting revealed that the expression of NKG2D and H60 was upregulated after the inhibition of MCT4. Further, we observed an elevated pH value, decreased extracellular lactate flow, and attenuated tumor growth. Therefore, we concluded that the inhibition of MCT4 enhanced the cytotoxicity of NK cells by blocking lactate flux and reversing the acidified tumor microenvironment. In addition to these findings, we also discovered that MCT4 depletion may have a pronounced impact on autophagy, which was surmised by observing that the inhibition of autophagy (3MA) pulled the enhanced cytotoxicity of NK cells downwards. Together, these data suggest that the key effect of MCT4 depletion on NK cells probably utilizes inductive autophagy as a compensatory metabolic mechanism to minimize the acidic extracellular microenvironment associated with lactate export in tumors.
When the going gets tough: Schools in challenging circumstances and the effectiveness of principals' leadership styles
Authors: Berkovich Izhak
Published: July 2018

The principal's leadership style is one of the most common ways of conceptualizing school leadership behaviours. We lack understanding, however, of how the effectiveness of school leadership styles varies across degrees of challenging circumstances. Data obtained from a quantitative survey of primary school teachers in Israel (N = 570) and from the Ministry of Education database were used to account for principals' leadership styles and their effectiveness in schools facing more challenging circumstances (N = 15) and in those facing less challenging circumstances (N = 46). Differences were found in the relations between principals' transactional behaviours on one hand and the teaching dimension of school culture and principals' perceived effectiveness on the other, as a function of challenging school circumstances. The study also found a difference in the relations of principals' transformational behaviours and the safety dimension of school culture, by level of challenging school circumstances. The data also revealed that in schools facing less challenging circumstances, principals' passive behaviours were related to students' achievements and principals' perceived effectiveness, but not in schools facing more challenging circumstances. The findings and their implications are discussed.
Laser‐Induced Fluorescence in Multiphase Systems
Authors: Rüttinger Sophie , Spille Claas , Hoffmann Marko , Schlüter Michael
Published: July 2018

Nowadays, multiphase flows occur in many different applications in everyday life or industrial context. Consequently, the understanding of transport phenomenolgy between the participating phases is a crucial task of recent and prospective research. When it comes to the optimization of absorption and chemical reaction tasks in process industry, in‐depth knowledge concerning mass transfer is required. The laser‐induced fluorescence (LIF) imaging is therefore a promising optical measurement technique to characterize concentration fields with high spatial and temporal resolution. This review gives an overview of the different fields of research within which LIF measurements are carried out, with focus on gas‐liquid systems. Chances and obstacles of recently publicated results as well as experiences of LIF methods regarding multiphase flows are presented and discussed.
Anatomic spectrum of left coronary artery anomalies and associated mechanisms of coronary insufficiency
Authors: Angelini Paolo , Uribe Carlo
Published: July 2018

This is a novel re‐appraisal of an understudied and misunderstood group of important coronary anomalies. The general name of the group is “anomalous origin of the left coronary artery,” but several additional details should be included in this group of anomalies and the explanation of their pathophysiology. The most lethal form in young athletes or military recruits features intramural aortic proximal course. This comprehensive review is based on a large experience at a dedicated center for coronary artery anomalies, using evolving knowledge (over 20 years) while employing prospective and disciplined programs of evaluation and treatment, according to the nature and severity of each anomaly. The most common pathogenic mechanism of coronary dysfunction relates to intramural coronary course, with or without ectopic origin, leading to variable lateral compression and stenosis inside the aortic tunica media; this compression is present at rest and worsens with exertion. We propose that such variable and dynamic stenoses can be best studied by examining their specific anatomy and clinical presentation, stress testing, and, most importantly, in vivo evaluation by intravascular ultrasonography. Such methods should be used to support individual risk evaluation and selection among treatment options.
Classification and pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Sysol J. R. , Machado R. F.
Published: July 2018

Pulmonary hypertension is a fatal disease of multiple etiologies that is estimated to affect over 100 million people worldwide. The disease is defined hemodynamically as a mean pulmonary artery pressure ≥ 25 mmHg at rest. Despite important advances in our understanding of the pathobiology of this disease and improvements in patient management, outcomes are still poor and no curative treatments are currently available. The complex nature of this disease requires detailed clinical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Recent advances in clinical recognition, classification, and understanding of the underlying pathological processes in pulmonary hypertension have led to improved diagnostic testing and therapeutic options for patients. A hallmark of pulmonary hypertension is an increased pulmonary vascular resistance which leads to progressive elevations in pulmonary artery pressure, resulting in compensatory right ventricular hypertrophy and, ultimately, heart failure. Clinically, these pulmonary vascular changes initially present as nonspecific symptoms, including unexplained dyspnea on exertion, fatigue, chest pain, and syncope. Signs of right ventricular dysfunction are also frequently present. Common pathogenic features of pulmonary hypertension include sustained pulmonary vasoconstriction, vascular remodeling of the small pulmonary arteries, in situ thrombosis, and increased vascular wall stiffness, resulting in increased pulmonary arterial pressure due to increased pulmonary vascular resistance. Despite improvements in clinical classification and understanding of the underlying pathogenic mechanisms of pulmonary hypertension, current therapies are limited to supportive care and targeting pulmonary vasoconstriction. There remains a need to identify novel therapeutic targets in this disease. This review provides a succinct overview of the clinical classification and pathophysiology of PH that can be used as a reference by physicians and physician‐scientists.
The role of echocardiography in the diagnostic work‐up of pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Sachpekidis V. , Karvounis H. , Giannakoulas G.
Published: July 2018

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a disorder with sometimes a challenging diagnosis, which can be made only by right heart catheterization. The role of echocardiography in the work‐up of these patients is manifold. Its main contribution is in the assessment of the presence of PH in the setting of a clinical suspicion and thus it serves as a gatekeeper to avoid unnecessary invasive catheterizations. In this regard, estimation of pulmonary artery pressure is a central but not the only component that should be pursued, since there are many other additional echocardiographic features that can help the clinician to estimate the probability of the presence of PH more accurately and to fully assess its pathophysiological consequences. In addition, echocardiography can offer invaluable insight into right ventricular size and function, which is the cardiac chamber that is mainly affected by the disease and finally, it can provide important clues about the cause of PH and mainly help identify patients with pulmonary venous hypertension, in which treatment is entirely different from patients with precapillary hypertension. This review summarizes the echocardiographic findings commonly observed in patients with PH and focuses on important features that allow the clinician to exploit the full potential of this modality when assessing these patients.
Current knowledge on very late stent thrombosis
Authors: Kafkas N. , Dragasis S.
Published: July 2018

Very late stent thrombosis (VLST) represents a rare, but potentially lethal complication, in the era of percutaneous coronary intervention. Its etiology, pathogenesis, and predictive factors have not yet been established due to its relatively low prevalence and multifactorial nature. In this review article, after presenting the current definitions on stent thrombosis, we focus on the contemporary data on VLST, for both bare‐metal stents and drug‐eluting stents. Possible pathophysiological mechanisms and predictive factors are also illustrated, with data drawn from several multicenter studies. Factors such as younger patients, smokers at the time of initial DES implantation, STEMI or the presence of thrombus at the time of initial DES implantation, overlapping stents, seem to represent independent predictors of VLST. Finally, there is a special reference on cases of VLST, studied with optical coherence tomography (OCT). OCT managed to identify the cause of VLST in over 97% of the cases in these studies, whereas some of the most common mechanisms of VLST in these patients were stent malapposition, neoatherosclerosis rupture, uncovered struts, and stent underexpansion.
Myocardial perfusion SPECT and SPECT/CT in interventional cardiology
Authors: Trägårdh E. , Hasbak P. , Hesse B.
Published: July 2018

Myocardial perfusion imaging with single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is an important and widely used non‐invasive imaging test for the diagnosis and semiquantification of myocardial ischemia. SPECT data, acquired after a stress test and at rest on a gamma camera, shows left ventricular tracer uptake during stress and at rest. The tracer distributions are proportionate to the relative, regional coronary‐flow distributions, respectively. A stress‐induced perfusion defect reflects myocardial ischemia, while a permanent defect, unchanged from stress to rest, indicates myocardial infarction. By ECG‐gating global and regional left ventricular function can also be assessed. The three most important indications for SPECT in the setting of interventional cardiology include (1) the diagnosis of coronary artery disease in intermediate‐risk patients, (2) the assessment of ischemia in patients with prior successful revascularization and recurrence of symptoms, and (3) the diagnosis of acute coronary syndrome in the emergency department. The amount of ischemia is related to the outcome of patients undergoing revascularization. It was observed that patients with an ischemic area of <10% of the left ventricle demonstrated by SPECT benefit from staying on optimal medical therapy, whereas patients with more ischemia on SPECT benefit from revascularization. Guidelines and appropriate use criteria for the indications of SPECT in relation to interventional cardiology have been published by the European Society and American College of Cardiology.
The first case of deafness‐dystonia syndrome due to compound heterozygous variants in FITM2
Authors: Shakir Aamina , Wadley Alexandrea F. , Purcarin Gabriela , Wierenga Klaas J.
Published: July 2018

Key Clinical Message

We report the second known family affected by deafness‐dystonia syndrome associated with loss of function of FITM2. Our patient is compound heterozygous for pathogenic FITM2 variants, while affected siblings in the first report were homozygous. This case provides evidence that this novel genetic disorder is associated with autosomal recessive inheritance.
The feasibility of early detection and grading of apple bruises using hyperspectral imaging
Authors: Tan Wenyi , Sun Laijun , Yang Fei , Che Wenkai , Ye Dandan , Zhang Dan , Zou Borui
Published: July 2018

The ability to determine if an apple is bruised and to provide quantitative and objective descriptions of the degree of bruising is not the only important basis for assessing apple quality but also has significance for improving the postharvest handling of apples. In this study, segmented principal component analysis for hyperspectral images in the spectral range of 401 to 1037 nm was carried out, and seven characteristic wavelengths were selected based on the weight coefficients of the principal component images. By using the principal component analysis operations with the selected wavelengths and image processing methods, an accurate recognition algorithm for apple bruises was proposed. For 40 intact samples and 160 bruised samples, the average correct recognition rate was 99.1%. Moreover, this paper obtained the average spectra of 157 segmented bruised regions by applying a binary mask. A characteristic wavelength selection method that combines competitive adaptive reweighted sampling with correlation coefficient methods and supports vector machine modeling methods based on grid parameter optimization was put forward for the classification and identification of the bruising degrees of apples. The results showed that the classification accuracy was as high as 97.5% for the test set. Overall, this study demonstrated that hyperspectral imaging technology can be used to accurately and effectively identify early bruises and determine the bruising degree of apples, which provides a new method for on‐line, nondestructive detection, and grading of early bruises in apples.
Structural and Synthetic Insights into Pyridine Homocouplings Mediated by a β‐Diketiminato Magnesium Amide Complex
Authors: Davin Laia , Clegg William , Kennedy Alan R. , Probert Michael R. , McLellan Ross , Hevia Eva
Published: July 2018

The reaction of [(DippNacnac)Mg(TMP)] (1) with 4‐subtituted pyridines proceeds via sequential regioselective metallation and 1,2‐addition to furnish a range of symmetric 4,4′‐R2‐2,2′‐bipyridines in good yield, representing a new entry into bipyridine synthesis. Interestingly, the reaction of 1 with 2‐OMe‐pyridine led to formation of asymmetric bipyridine 6, resulting from the C6‐magnesiation of the heterocycle followed by a C−C coupling step by addition to the C2 position of a second, non‐metallated molecule, and subsequent elimination of [DippNacnacMgOMe]2 (7). Synthesis combined with spectroscopic and structural analysis help rationalise the underlying processes resulting in the observed reactivity, and elucidate the key role that the sterically encumbered β‐diketiminate ligand plays in determining regioselectivity.
Experimental and Theoretical Study on the Cycloreversion of a Nucleobase‐Derived Azetidine by Photoinduced Electron Transfer
Authors: Fraga‐Timiraos Ana B. , Francés‐Monerris Antonio , Rodríguez‐Muñiz Gemma M. , Navarrete‐Miguel Miriam , Miranda Miguel A. , Roca‐Sanjuán Daniel , Lhiaubet‐Vallet Virginie
Published: July 2018

Azetidines are interesting compounds in medicine and chemistry as bioactive scaffolds and synthetic intermediates. However, photochemical processes involved in the generation and fate of azetidine‐derived radical ions have scarcely been reported. In this context, the photoreduction of this four‐membered heterocycle might be relevant in connection with the DNA (6‐4) photoproduct obtained from photolyase. Herein, a stable azabipyrimidinic azetidine (AZTm), obtained from cycloaddition between thymine and 6‐azauracil units, is considered to be an interesting model of the proposed azetidine‐like intermediate. Hence, its photoreduction and photo‐oxidation are thoroughly investigated through a multifaceted approach, including spectroscopic, analytical, and electrochemical studies, complemented by CASPT2 and DFT calculations. Both injection and removal of an electron result in the formation of radical ions, which evolve towards repaired thymine and azauracil units. Whereas photoreduction energetics are similar to those of the cyclobutane thymine dimers, photo‐oxidation is clearly more favorable in the azetidine. Ring opening occurs with relatively low activation barriers (<13 kcal mol−1) and the process is clearly exergonic for photoreduction. In general, a good correlation has been observed between the experimental results and theoretical calculations, which has allowed a synergic understanding of the phenomenon.
Highly Charged, Cytotoxic, Cyclometalated Iridium(III) Complexes as Cancer Stem Cell Mitochondriotropics
Authors: Laws Kristine , Eskandari Arvin , Lu Chunxin , Suntharalingam Kogularamanan
Published: July 2018

The cancer stem cell (CSC) toxicity and mechanism of action of a series of iridium(III) complexes bearing polypridyl and charged 1‐methyl‐2‐(2‐pyridyl)pyridinium ligands, 1–4 is reported. The most effective complex (containing 1,10‐phenanthroline), 3, kills CSCs and bulk cancer cells with equal potency (in the micromolar range), indicating that it could potentially remove heterogenous tumour populations with a single dose. Encouragingly, 3 also inhibits mammopshere formation to a similar extent as salinomycin, a well‐established anti‐CSC agent. This complex induces CSC apoptosis by mitochondrial membrane depolarization, inhibition of mitochondrial metabolism, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the anti‐CSC properties of iridium complexes.
Highly enantioselective Michael addition of pyrazolin‐5‐ones to nitroolefins catalyzed by cinchona alkaloid derived 4‐methylbenzoylthioureas
Authors: Yang Mengchen , Zhang Min , Wang Zhenyu , Tang Li , Chen Wenbin , Ban Shurong , Li Qingshan
Published: July 2018

Cinchona alkaloid‐derived 4‐methyl/nitro benzoylthioureas were synthesized, which smoothly catalyzed the asymmetric Michael addition of pyrazolin‐5‐ones to nitroolefins. The results showed that electronic effects of substituents in the benzene ring of benzoylthioureas have subtle influences on their catalytic abilities and electron donating methyl group is favored than electron withdrawing nitro group. Preliminary Hartree‐Fock calculations revealed that in the catalytic cycle, hydrogen bond energies of the complex formed with 4‐methylbenzoylthioureas are about 0.19 to 1.56 kcal/mol higher than with the corresponding 4‐nitrobenzoylthioureas. 4‐Methylbenzoylthioureas were identified as the most effective catalysts that promoted asymmetric Michael addition of pyrazolin‐5‐ones to nitroolefins to give the S‐ or R‐products with high enantioselectivities.
Proteins in Xylem Exudates from Rapeseed Plants (Brassica napus L.) Play a Crucial Role in Cadmium Phytoremediation
Authors: Jien Shih‐Hao , Lin Yong‐Hong
Published: July 2018

Phytoremediation is an economical and viable method for reducing cadmium (Cd) in polluted soils. Cd is transported from the roots to the stem. Binding of Cd by organic acids and amino acids and its subsequent transportation through plants via xylem vessels is verified. However, the roles that proteins play in Cd transport are still unclear. Rapeseed plants are selected for this study. After treating with Cd (0, 10, and 30 μmol L−1 (µM)), the proteins of the plant are analyzed using two‐dimensional electrophoresis. Twelve significantly differentially regulated spots are identified using mass spectrometry when the Cd concentration is increased; six of these spots are upregulated and six are downregulated. By identifying the functions of these proteins, transport of Cd to the xylem of rapeseed plants can be classified according to the cellular physiologies involved in carbohydrate metabolism, energy production, and redox damage reduction. This study provides a crucial basis for further proteomic and genetic studies on environmental Cd phytoremediation.