bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization and Application of Chitosan as Natural Product from Locally Available Shrimp Shell in Bangladesh
Authors: Sultana Nadia , Ahmed Khondoker Shahin , Islam Muhammad Saiful , Bashar Muhammad Shahriar , Hassan S. M. Mahmudul , Islam Monarul , Jahan Ismet Ara , Hossain Hemayet
Published: October 2020

The experiment was designed to investigate the optimization condition of chitosan and its application on fruit as natural preservative prepared from locally available shrimp shell in Bangladesh. Materials and methods. The preparation of chitosan was done by gravimetric method; characterization of chitosan was performed by solubility. pH, viscosity, FT-IR, SEM, XRD and DDA test. The prepared chitosan (0.5-0.25%) was completely soluble in 1% and 2% acetic acid solution. Based on these spectra, the major absorption band was observed at 3485.14 cm-1 which indicated the stretching vibration of OH and NH groups. 1045.42 cm-1 which represented the free amino group (-NH2) at C2 position of glucosamine indicated an important group that might present in chitosan The SEM micrographs were implicated non-homogenous and non-smooth surface on chitosan. The XRD pattern of the chitosan sample was illustrated one sharp and strong characteristic broad diffraction peak at 2θ = 20°. Degree of deacetylation (DDA) of the prepared chitosan was 84.0%. Application of chitosan solution (0.25%) on red and green apple was observed that control was started to form wrinkle at 5th day while test sample had no colour change at 18th day for red apple. It was also found that green apple had to change color at 7th day & to form wrinkle at 15th day for control while test sample had no color change at 15th day for a test sample. Therefore it can be concluded that the application of chitosan solution on red and green apple at a concentration of 0.25% solution could be a natural preservative for fruit (apple) preservation.
Cidadania cultural e inovação social nos Pontos de Cultura do Rio de Janeiro – estudo comparativo entre 2015 e 2019
Authors: Schiray Dalia Maimon , Maia Cavalcante Míriam , Sá Campello Ana Paula
Published: October 2020

Com a aprovação da Política Nacional de Cultura Viva (PNCV) em 2014, pelo Ministério da Cultura inaugura uma nova fase para a política pública cultural no Brasil com maior incentivo às ações populares de base local, capilarizando a cultura em todo o território nacional. Sob este viés, o trabalho visa avaliar a relação entre cultura, democracia, cidadania e inovação social pelos Pontos de Cultura (PCs) do Rio de Janeiro. O estudo dividido em quatro partes, inicia-se com a análise das principais abordagens teóricas. Em seguida, são apresentados os resultados do diagnóstico participativo realizado com os PCs em 2015 e 2019; na terceira parte demonstra-se a análise dos projetos culturais baseados na tese dos estágios de inovação das organizações e, por fim, conclui-se que os aspectos da inovação social na PNCV e nos PCs.
Construindo a Diversidade Cultural em Redes de Sustentabilidade. O caso da Cooperativa Açaí, de Porto Velho, RO
Authors: Schierholt Anelise Fabiana Paiva , Lopes José Rogério
Published: October 2020

Este estudo expõe a trajetória de produção de artefatos culturais da Cooperativa Açaí, localizada em Porto Velho, RO, e evidencia como a mesma foi marcada pelas parcerias e redes estabelecidas para a objetivação de seus produtos, nas quais se constituiu uma concepção de diversidade cultural. Os procedimentos metodológicos seguiram a orientação da abordagem etnográfica (observação direta, elaboração de caderno de campo e realização de entrevistas semiestruturadas), sendo produzidos vídeos e fotografias dos contextos situacionais dos atores. A análise elaborada destaca que as atividades da Cooperativa são melhor objetivadas quando se aproximam dessas parcerias e são mais subjetivas quando relacionadas ao contexto ambiental amazônico, devido às tramas organizacionais que caracterizam as objetivações empreendidas e sua enunciação.
Arte y cultura para el cambio social: el caso del Encuentro Internacional de Medellín 2007 / MDE07, Colombia.
Authors: Santamaría Alzate Pablo
Published: October 2020

El presente artículo analiza el aporte del arte y la cultura al proceso de transformación social que vivió Medellín, Colombia, durante el primer decenio del presente siglo. Esta ciudad tuvo entre 1984 y 1996 uno de los periodos más violentos de su historia reciente; durante esta época colectivos culturales comunitarios emprendieron una labor de resistencia a la violencia y a la estigmatización. La política pública cultural de la época recoge estas experiencias y coordina esfuerzos institucionales para configurar un nuevo tipo de subjetividad ciudadana, estimulando la convivencia y la hospitalidad. Bajo estos principios se desarrolla en 2007 el “Encuentro Internacional Medellín 07, prácticas artísticas contemporáneas, espacios de hospitalidad” en el cual se articulan varios conceptos de la planificación cultural de Medellín de finales del siglo XX y principios del nuevo siglo.
Cultura e Cidade: centros e periferias em perspectiva
Authors: Vicente Wilq
Published: October 2020

A cultura passou a ocupar uma posição de centralidade no mundo contemporâneo. Em um país eminentemente urbano e desigual como o Brasil, as novas configurações das cidades vieram acompanhadas por grandes desafios, que cotidianamente expõem as fragilidades da ordem social. O texto discute a relação entre cultura e cidade no contexto da discussão sobre cidades e economia criativa, abordando a inserção da produção cultural periférica neste cenário. Busca apresentar considerações para o entendimento da segregação social, econômica, espacial e simbólica e a inserção da dinâmica cultural neste processo.
The rapid endocytic uptake of fetuin‐A by adherent tumor cells is mediated by Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4)
Authors: Thomas Portia L. , Nangami Gladys , Rana Tanu , Evans Adam , Williams Stephen D. , Crowell Dylan , Shanker Anil , Sakwe Amos M. , Ochieng Josiah
Published: October 2020

Fetuin‐A is a serum glycoprotein synthesized and secreted into blood by the liver and whose main physiological function is the inhibition of ectopic calcification. However, a number of studies have demonstrated that it is a multifunctional protein. For example, endocytic uptake of fetuin‐A by tumor cells resulting in rapid cellular adhesion and spreading has been reported. The precise uptake mechanism, however, has been elusive. The present studies were done to determine whether Toll‐like receptor‐4 (TLR4), which has been previously shown to be a receptor for fetuin‐A and is commonly expressed in immune cells, could take part in the rapid uptake (< 3 min) of fetuin‐A by tumor cells. Rapid uptake of fetuin‐A was inhibited by the specific TLR4 inhibitor CLI‐095 and also attenuated in TLR4 knockdown prostate tumor cells. Inhibition of TLR4 by CLI‐095 also attenuated the rapid adhesion of tumor cells as well as invasion through a bed of Matrigel. The data suggest mechanisms by which TLR4 modulates the adhesion and growth of tumor cells.
Patient‐specific quality assurance using machine log files analysis for stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT)
Authors: Chow Vivian U. Y. , Kan Monica W. K. , Chan Anthony T. C.
Published: October 2020

An in‐house trajectory log analysis program (LOGQA) was developed to evaluate the delivery accuracy of volumetric‐modulated arc therapy (VMAT) for stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). Methods have been established in LOGQA to provide analysis on dose indices, gantry angles, and multi‐leaf collimator (MLC) positions. Between March 2019 and May 2020, 120 VMAT SBRT plans of various treatment sites using flattening filter‐free (FFF) mode were evaluated using both LOGQA and phantom measurements. Gantry angles, dose indices, and MLC positions were extracted from log and compared with each plan. Integrated transient fluence map (ITFM) was reconstructed from log to examine the deviation of delivered fluence against the planned one. Average correlation coefficient of dose index versus gantry angle and ITFM for all patients were 1.0000, indicating that the delivered beam parameters were in good agreement with planned values. Maximum deviation of gantry angles and monitor units (MU) of all patients were less than 0.2 degree and 0.03 % respectively. Regarding MLC positions, maximum and root‐mean‐square (RMS) deviations from planned values were less than 0.6 mm and 0.3 mm respectively, indicating that MLC positions during delivery followed planned values in precise manner. Results of LOGQA were consistent with measurement, where all gamma‐index passing rates were larger than 95 %, with 2 %/2 mm criteria. Three types of intentional errors were introduced to patient plan for software validation. LOGQA was found to recognize the introduced errors of MLC positions, gantry angles, and dose indices with magnitudes of 1 mm, 1 degree, and 5 %, respectively, which were masked in phantom measurement. LOGQA was demonstrated to have the potential to reduce or even replace patient‐specific QA measurements for SBRT plan delivery provided that the frequency and amount of measurement‐based machine‐specific QA can be increased to ensure the log files record real values of machine parameters.
Does incident severity influence surveillance by lifeguards in aquatic scenes?
Authors: Lanagan‐Leitzel Lyndsey K.
Published: October 2020

Do lifeguards monitor events according to the level of danger they pose to the patron? This study examined this question by displaying 40 min of video of natural swimming activity to three lifeguards while an eye‐tracker recorded their eye position. In a separate session, those same lifeguards viewed 100 short video clips of some of the incidents that had been presented earlier and they were asked to provide a severity rating (0–7) for each one. The proportion of time that an event was monitored was calculated, and was not consistently predicted by incident severity, physical salience, or incident duration, but by the number of swimmers in the scene. Although this study had an extremely small number of lifeguards and should be treated as exploratory, it suggests that lifeguards may have trouble monitoring incidents they deem severe when they are presented in the context of a busy aquatic scene.
Tumor Microenvironment Sensitive Nanocarriers for Bioimaging and Therapeutics
Authors: Park Hyeongmok , Saravanakumar Gurusamy , Kim Jinseong , Lim Junha , Kim Won Jong
Published: October 2020

The tumor microenvironment (TME), which is composed of cancer cells, stromal cells, immune cells, and extracellular matrices, plays an important role in tumor growth and progression. Thus, targeting the TME using a well‐designed nano‐drug delivery system is emerging as a promising strategy for the treatment of solid tumors. Compared to normal tissues, the TME presents several distinguishable physiological features such as mildly acidic pH, hypoxia, high level of reactive oxygen species, and overexpression of specific enzymes, that are exploited as stimuli to induce specific changes in the nanocarrier structures, and thereby facilitates target‐specific delivery of imaging or chemotherapeutic agents for the early diagnosis or effective treatment, respectively. Recently, smart nanocarriers that respond to more than one stimulus in the TME have also been designed to elicit a more desirable spatiotemporally controlled drug release. This review highlights the recent progress in TME‐sensitive nanocarriers designed for more efficient tumor therapy and imaging. In particular, the design strategies, challenges, and critical considerations involved in the fabrication of TME‐sensitive nanocarriers, along with their in vitro and in vivo evaluations are discussed.
Incorporation of Ru(II) Polypyridyl Complexes into Nanomaterials for Cancer Therapy and Diagnosis
Authors: Soliman Nancy , Gasser Gilles , Thomas Christophe M.
Published: October 2020

Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes are compounds of great interest in cancer therapy due to their unique photophysical, photochemical, and biological properties. For effective treatment, they must be able to penetrate tumor cells effectively and selectively. The development of nanoscale carriers capable of delivering Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes has the potential to passively or selectively enhance their cellular uptake in tumor cells. Many different strategies have been explored to incorporate Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes into a variety of nanosized constructs, ranging from organic to inorganic materials. Herein, recent developments in nanomaterials loaded with Ru(II) polypyridyl complexes are highlighted. Their rational design, preparation, and physicochemical properties are described, and their potential applications in cancer therapy are eventually discussed.
A Freestanding 3D Heterostructure Film Stitched by MOF‐Derived Carbon Nanotube Microsphere Superstructure and Reduced Graphene Oxide Sheets: A Superior Multifunctional Electrode for Overall Water Splitting and Zn–Air Batteries
Authors: Yan Liting , Xu Yulin , Chen Pan , Zhang Shuo , Jiang Huimin , Yang Lingzhi , Wang Ying , Zhang Li , Shen Jianxing , Zhao Xuebo , Wang Lianzhou
Published: October 2020

Developing a scalable approach to construct efficient and multifunctional electrodes for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is an urgent need for overall water splitting and zinc–air batteries. In this work, a freestanding 3D heterostructure film is synthesized from a Ni‐centered metal−organic framework (MOF)/graphene oxide. During the pyrolysis process, 1D carbon nanotubes formed from the MOF link with the 2D reduced graphene oxide sheets to stitch the 3D freestanding film. The results of the experiments and theoretical calculations show that the synergistic effect of the N‐doped carbon shell and Ni nanoparticles leads to an optimized film with excellent electrocatalytic activity. Low overpotentials of 95 and 260 mV are merely needed for HER and OER, respectively, to reach a current density of 10 mA cm−2. In addition, a high half‐wave potential of 0.875 V is obtained for the ORR, which is comparable to that of Pt/RuO2 and ranks among the top of non‐noble‐metal catalysts. The use of an “all‐in‐one” film as the electrode leads to excellent performance of the homemade water electrolyzer and zinc–air battery, indicating the potential of the film for practical applications.
Strontium Ion B‐Site Substitution for Spectral‐Stable Blue Emitting Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Li Junnan , Wang Xuechun , Tan Yeshu , Liang Dong , Zou Yatao , Cai Lei , Wu Tian , Wen Kaichuan , Wang Yusheng , Li Yajuan , Song Tao , Wang Lu , Sun Baoquan
Published: October 2020

Halide perovskites are promising emitters for light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) due to their outstanding optoelectronic properties, i.e., tunable bandgap, high photoluminescence quantum efficiency, and excellent color purity. However, in contrast to their green and red cousins, the present blue perovskite LEDs are still suffering from poor operational lifetime and electroluminescence shift during bias operation, hindering their practical applications in full‐color information displays. Developing rational strategies to achieve efficient and stable blue perovskite LEDs is one of the urgent tasks in this community. Herein, through substituting the Pb site with strontium ions, blue perovskite films with stable emission under relatively harsh working conditions, i.e., high electrical bias, constant thermal heating, and UV illumination, are obtained, which accordingly guarantees spectrally stable blue perovskite LEDs with external quantum efficiency of 4.1%. Moreover, different alkaline‐earth metal ions are also investigated to further explore the effects of B‐site ion substitution on the performance of perovskite LEDs. This work demonstrates an alternative path for the development of spectral‐stable blue perovskite LEDs.
Nanotechnology‐Based Targeted Drug Delivery: An Emerging Tool to Overcome Tuberculosis
Authors: Baranyai Zsuzsa , Soria‐Carrera Héctor , Alleva Maria , Millán‐Placer Ana C. , Lucía Ainhoa , Martín‐Rapún Rafael , Aínsa José A. , de la Fuente Jesús M.
Published: October 2020

The appearance and rapid spread of drug resistant strains of tuberculosis (TB), one of the deadliest infectious diseases, pose a serious threat to public health and increase the need for shorter, less toxic, and more effective therapies. Developing new drugs is difficult and often associated with side effects, so nanotechnology has emerged as a tool to improve current treatments and to rescue drugs having elevated toxicity or poor solubility. Due to their size and surface chemistry, antimicrobial‐loaded nanocarriers are avidly taken up by macrophages, the main cells hosting Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Macrophages are continuously recruited to infected areas, they can transport drugs with them, making passive targeting a good strategy for TB treatment. Active targeting (decorating surface of nanocarriers with ligands specific to receptors displayed by macrophages) further increases local drug concentration, and thus treatment efficacy. Although in in vivo studies, nanocarriers are often administered intravenously in order to avoid inaccurate dosage in animals, translation to humans requires more convenient routes like pulmonary or oral administration. This report highlights the importance and progress of pulmonary administration, passive and active targeting strategies toward bacteria reservoirs to overcome the challenges in TB treatment.
Targeting Senescent Cells for a Healthier Aging: Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Song Shuling , Tchkonia Tamara , Jiang Jing , Kirkland James L. , Sun Yu
Published: October 2020

Aging is a physiological decline in both structural homeostasis and functional integrity, progressively affecting organismal health. A major hallmark of aging is the accumulation of senescent cells, which have entered a state of irreversible cell cycle arrest after experiencing inherent or environmental stresses. Although cellular senescence is essential in several physiological events, it plays a detrimental role in a large array of age‐related pathologies. Recent biomedical advances in specifically targeting senescent cells to improve healthy aging, or alternatively, postpone natural aging and age‐related diseases, a strategy termed senotherapy, have attracted substantial interest in both scientific and medical communities. Challenges for aging research are highlighted and potential avenues that can be leveraged for therapeutic interventions to control aging and age‐related disorders in the current era of precision medicine.
Field performance on lettuce crops of poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate)/polylactic acid as alternative biodegradable composites mulching films
Authors: de Souza Alana G. , Ferreira Rafaela R. , Harada Julio , Rosa Derval S.
Published: October 2020

This work developed biodegradable poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate)/polylactic acid (PBAT/PLA) composites with different fillers to improve their physicochemical properties and biodegradability. The films were tested considering mechanical, morphological, thermal, crystalline, biodegradability, and ecotoxicity tests. Mechanical and morphological results indicated that the fillers' nature influences mechanical performance; all composites showed high‐tensile strength (~30 MPa) than the pristine films (~12 MPa). The use of both fillers resulted in an interface, improving the matrix compatibility, reflecting in good thermal performance, low‐water absorption, and high hydrophobicity. The WA (water absorption) and hydrophobicity are essential to maintain the crop's moisture since the water lost through plant transpiration will be condensed and returned to the soil. Films showed biodegradability and absence of toxicity, which allows the substitution of polyethylene commodity films as mulching films. Biodegradation and ecotoxicity tests indicate that the developed films are beneficial for lettuce crops and contribute to the development of seedlings.
Bisphenol A decreases progesterone synthesis in human ovarian granulosa cells
Authors: Qi Junfeng , Liu Lida , Yang Jie , Gao Xueying , Zhang Wei
Published: October 2020

Evidences indicate that the decline of female fertility is becoming a common problem over the past few decades. Environmental exposure of Bisphenol A (BPA) has been considered as an endocrine‐disrupting chemical deleteriously affecting human reproductions. To better understand the effect of BPA exposure on human ovarian granulosa cells, we treated human ovarian granulosa cell line (KGN) with increasing concentrations (0.1, 1, 10, and 100 μM) of BPA for 24 hr. About 0.1, 1, and 10 μM BPA did not significantly affect the viability of KGN while 100 μM of BPA caused a statistically significant decrease in the viability of KGN. Treatment KGN with 10 μM BPA resulted in a significant decrease in progesterone biosynthesis. The treatment also significantly increased the expression of ATP binding cassette subfamily A member 1 (ABCA1) and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (STAR). In the current study, exposure to BPA could lead to decreased progesterone production probably through the upregulation of ABCA1 in human granulosa cells.
AlGaN‐based ultraviolet light‐emitting diodes: challenges and opportunities
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Malik Shahzeb , Munsif Munaza
Published: October 2020

Due to low power consumption, tunable wavelength and long lifetime ultraviolet light‐emitting diodes (UV LEDs) have found many applications in different fields such as health care, water disinfection, agriculture. In this review, we report different problems that lead to low external quantum efficiency of UV LEDs. We also report various challenges in the growth process of the UV LEDs such as increase in the dislocation density, which affects the optoelectronic performance of the devices. We also report the analysis of the two modes of light polarization, i.e. transverse electric and transverse magnetic in UV LEDs. Moreover, we also summarize various state‐of‐the‐art reported external quantum efficiencies, light output power and peak emission wavelengths in the three UV wavelength regimes, i.e. UV‐A, UV‐B and UV‐C LEDs.
Efficacy of FGF‐2 in Periodontal Regeneration in a Case of Severe Intrabony Defect and Furcation Involvement With 15‐Month Follow‐Up
Authors: Takayama Shin‐ichi , Murakami Shinya
Published: October 2020

Introduction

Several studies have demonstrated that basic fibroblast growth factor (FGF‐2) is one of the most effective growth factors for periodontal regeneration. The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare in Japan have approved 0.3% human recombinant FGF‐2 for periodontal regeneration, and it has been commercially available since 2016. In this case report, a patient was treated with this periodontal regenerative medicine and demonstrated success at 15‐month follow‐up, as confirmed by dental X‐ray and on cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Case Presentation

A 42‐year‐old woman with a one by two walled intrabony defect and Class III furcation involvement in tooth #19, and Class II furcation involvement in tooth #18 (lingual) underwent periodontal regenerative surgery with FGF‐2 without any bone graft materials. Favorable clinical and radiographic outcomes were noted 15 months after the procedure. The vertical bone defect in tooth #19 showed a clinical attachment level gain of 8 mm. Moreover, CBCT analysis revealed considerable new bone formation in the Class II furcation involvement in tooth #18 and limited bone formation in the Class III furcation involvement in tooth #19.

Conclusions

This case report indicates that FGF‐2 showed a positive outcome in terms of periodontal regeneration in a case of one by two wall intrabony defects with Class III furcation involvement. A complete recovery of Class II furcation involvement was observed without artificial bone graft materials.
Liquid‐liquid‐phase Synthesis of exo‐Vinylene Carbonates from Primary Propargylic Alcohols: Catalyst Design and Recycling
Authors: Johnson Chloë , Dabral Saumya , Rudolf Peter , Licht Ulrike , Hashmi A. Stephen K. , Schaub Thomas
Published: October 2020

A straight‐forward approach to separate catalyst from the exo‐vinylene carbonate (EVC) products of the carboxylative cyclisation of primary propargylic alcohols has been developed. The liquid‐liquid phase synthesis utilises lipophilic silver(I) carboxylate salts and N,N‐dioctyl modified phosphine (FatPhos) ligands to enhance catalyst solubility in non‐polar solvents. Following simple liquid‐liquid phase separation, EVCs relevant as monomers for poly(urethane) and poly(carbonate) synthesis were isolated in the non‐miscible polar phase in good yields. In situ reaction monitoring by ReactIR gave insights into the reaction kinetics and informed the conditions used to afford good EVC selectivity. Under optimised conditions, silver leaching into the product phase was very minor as confirmed by ICP‐MS. Furthermore, a protocol for catalyst recycling by liquid‐liquid separation was demonstrated, with modest loss of catalytic activity over 3 runs.
Enhancement of Cocatalyst‐Coated ZnFe2O4 Photoanode Grown In Situ on a Metallic Iron Substrate
Authors: Yin Yanjun , Wang Xiaodong , Li Lei , Hei Jinpei , Han Yang , Li Lei , Li Mingling
Published: October 2020

MFe2O4 (M=Zn, Cu, Mg, Ca) spinel ferrites, with electronic band gaps between 1.4 and 2.1 eV and containing only earth‐abundant elements, are promising visible‐light‐harvesting materials for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. In situ growth of semiconducting thin films directly on a metallic substrate usually produced highly mechanical stable photoelectrodes and lower interfacial transfer resistance. Here, we advanced the in‐situ‐grown ZnFe2O4 thin‐film photoanode on a Fe substrate with an optically transparent FeNiOx electrocatalyst, giving a photocurrent of approximately 46 μA cm−2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE, which was 3.5 times larger as compared to pristine Fe/ZnFe2O4. Multiple electrochemical techniques were employed to elucidate the augmented effects of surface modification. Our results suggest that FeNiOx can accelerate the surface charge separation efficiency, thus improving the PEC performance. Additionally, low bulk charge separation efficiency was proposed to be the main hindrance for the ZnFe2O4 photoanode on a metallic Fe substrate.
A novel one‐step reaction sodium‐sulfur battery with high areal sulfur loading on hierarchical porous carbon fiber
Authors: Guo Qiubo , Sun Shuo , Kim Keun‐il , Zhang Hongshen , Liu Xuejun , Yan Chenglin , Xia Hui
Published: October 2020

Room temperature sodium‐sulfur (RT Na‐S) batteries are gaining extensive attention as attractive alternatives for large‐scale energy storage, due to low cost and high abundancy of sodium and sulfur in nature. However, the dilemmas regarding soluble polysulfides (Na2S
n
, 4 ≤ n ≤ 8) and the inferior reaction kinetics limit their practical application. To address these issues, we report the activated porous carbon fibers (APCF) with small sulfur molecules (S2
–
4) confined in ultramicropores, to achieve a reversible single‐step reaction in RT Na‐S batteries. The mechanism is investigated by the in situ UV/vis spectroscopy, which demonstrates Na2S is the only product during the whole discharge process. Moreover, the hierarchical carbon structure can enhance areal sulfur loading without sacrificing the capacity due to thorough contact between electrolyte and sulfur electrode. As a consequence, the APCF electrode with 38 wt% sulfur (APCF‐38S) delivers a high initial reversible specific capacity of 1412 mAh g−1 and 10.6 mAh cm−2 (avg. areal sulfur loading: 7.5 mg cm−2) at 0.1 C (1 C = 1675 mA g−1), revealing high degree of sulfur utilization. This study provides a new strategy for the development of high areal capacity RT Na‐S batteries.
Cytomorphologic features of NTRK‐rearranged thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Viswanathan Kartik , Chu Ying‐Hsia , Faquin William C. , Sadow Peter M.
Published: October 2020

Background

NTRK‐rearranged thyroid carcinomas (NRTC), though rare, harbor a potential therapeutic target. The cytomorphologic features by fine needle aspiration (FNA) and the utility of preoperative molecular testing for NRTC remain largely uncharacterized. We provide a detailed cytomorphologic analysis of an institutional NRTC cohort with clinical, radiologic, histopathologic, and molecular correlations.

Methods

Our NRTC FNA cohort included 21 specimens from 19 patients. The mean age and female‐to‐male ratio were 42 years and 2.2:1, respectively. Predominantly alcohol‐stained Papanicolaou smears and liquid‐based preparations were reviewed for 14 patients with available materials, and histologic review of subsequent resections was conducted for all 19 patients. Imaging and clinical data were accessed through electronic medical records.

Results

Sonographically, NRTC were hypoechoic (87%), predominantly solid (53%) with limited central vascularity (27%), ill‐defined borders (67%), and microcalcifications (67%). Observed cytomorphologic features include mixed architectural patterns (79%), fibrosis (93%), oncocytic and vacuolated cytoplasm (36% and 43%, respectively), and abundant intranuclear pseudoinclusions (14%). Most NRTC FNAs were classified as suspicious for malignancy or malignant (89%). One case classified as atypia of uncertain significance underwent ThyroSeq sequencing where a NTRK1 fusion was identified.

Conclusion

Although NRTC did not show a consistent cytomorphologic signature, mixed architectural patterns, prominent fibrosis and distinct cytoplasmic or nuclear features should raise suspicion for NRTC and, when accompanied by negative BRAFV600E by immunohistochemistry on cell block material, aid in selecting cases for molecular testing. This algorithmic approach may help identify potential NRTC, maximizing treatment options for patients, especially in patients for whom treatment planning is complicated.
Surface Passivation Strategies for Improving Photoluminescence and Stability of Cesium Lead Halide Perovskite Nanocrystals
Authors: Dutt V. G. Vasavi , Akhil Syed , Mishra Nimai
Published: October 2020

Cesium lead halide (CsPbX3) perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) are of great interest for next‐generation optoelectronics because of its excellent optical properties and exceptional colour tunability. Nevertheless, these materials suffer degradation which has become a major challenge for their use in practical applications. Researchers mainly focused on developing various approaches to improve the photoluminescence properties and stability of CsPbX3 perovskite NCs. Among these, herein, we review some of the promising approaches to address the challenges like post‐synthetic modification, ligand exchange, and in situ addition.
2D Dual Anisotropic Conductive Janus Nanostrips Array Pellicle and Derivative 3D Janus‐structural Pipe Concurrently Endowed with Magnetism and Red‐green Two‐colored Fluorescence
Authors: Yang Xiuling , Qi Haina , Tian Jiao , Xie Yunrui , Sheng Yuqi , Dong Xiangting , Ma Qianli , Liu Guixia , Wang Jinxian , Yu Wensheng
Published: October 2020

2D dual anisotropic conductive left‐to‐right structured special Janus array pellicle (SJAP) synchronously functionalized by red‐green two‐colored fluorescence and magnetism was constructed by electrospinning. SJAP is assembled by two closely joint films, viz. {[CoFe2O4/polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)]@[polyaniline (PANI)/PMMA]}//[Tb(acac)3bipy/PMMA] special Janus nanostrip array film as left‐side (L‐SJAF) and {[CoFe2O4/PMMA]@[PANI/PMMA]}//[Eu(TTA)3(TPPO)2/PMMA] special Janus nanostrip array film as right‐side (R‐SJAF). Microscopically, Janus nanostrip with coaxial//monaxial structure effectively limits three functional substances to their own regions, avoiding adverse impact among conduction, magnetism and fluorescence to achieve enhanced fluorescence and strong anisotropic conduction. Macroscopically, SJAP realizes the division of green and red fluorescence regions, and close binding of L‐SJAF and R‐SJAF with single anisotropy enables SJAP to obtain dual anisotropic conduction. The high integration of micro and macro portion endues SJAP with dual anisotropic conduction, magnetism and red‐green two‐colored fluorescence. Two types of 3D Janus‐structural pipe were created by curling SJAP, achieving the structural evolution from 1D nanostrip to 2D SJAP then to 3D pipe. The new 3D pipes exhibit identical properties with SJAP. The novel SJAP and 3D pipe have wide prospect in electronic skin. This design theory and technology provide an idea to prepare other polyfunctional materials.
Developing indicators for quality assurance in cytopathology. Catalan Society of Cytopathology
Authors: Tresserra Francisco , Temprana Jordi , Vasquez Carem , Lloveras Belen , Català Isabel , Tarroch Xavier , Combalia Neus , Alameda Francesc , Bosch Ramon , Gallardo Joana , Mancebo Eva , Fabra Gemma , Dinares Maria Carme , Santacana Maria , Gonzalez Clarisa , Pérez‐Ochoa Francisco
Published: October 2020

Background

Quality control in cytology must be established through reliable and easily measurable indicators.

Methods

From the Catalan Society of Cytopathology a group of experts has been established to write a document with 13 indicators that cover the entire cytological process, based on its Cytopathology Quality Guide. It has been elaborated through guides and documents with scientific evidence and DELPHI methodology in order to reach a structured consensus on the opinions of a group of experts.

Results

Thirteen indicators, covering all the cytologic process are expressed in worksheets specifying all their characteristics.

Conclusion

This document allows the control of all stages of the cytological process.
Localized cutaneous infection caused by Scedosporium apiospermum: Report of a case diagnosed on cytology
Authors: Agarwal Radhika , Singh Meeta , Chawla Rohit , Kumar Guddanti D. , Mishra Anurag , Jain Shyama
Published: October 2020

Scedosporium apiospermum (also known as Pseudallescheria boydii) is a ubiquitous filamentous fungus. This fungus is known as a cause of mycetoma, which may occur in a normal immune host following trauma and nonmycetoma‐localized skin infections without grain production which are much rarer. However, in an immunocompromised host, S. apiospermum may cause a life‐threatening infection. We describe a case of S. apiospermum infection of the left middle finger in an immunocompetent patient, which was diagnosed on cytology and later confirmed on culture.
Effect of kinematic interaction on seismic response of offshore wind turbines on monopiles
Authors: Kaynia Amir M.
Published: October 2020

Interest in renewable energy over the past decade has motivated a remarkable research on offshore wind energy. Due to the environmental loading conditions in the early developments of offshore wind farms, the focus of the research and engineering has been on aerodynamic and hydrodynamic subjects. However, earthquake has turned out to be a major design concern in seismic areas such as East Asia, Southern Europe, and United States. The topics include, among others, nonlinear response of foundations, soil liquefaction, and their impacts on foundation performance. An important topic in seismic soil‐structure interaction (SSI) analysis is the kinematic seismic response of foundations. This information is crucial for analyses based on the substructuring approach where both kinematic response and foundation impedances are key parameters. While considerable research has been spent on the latter topic, very little has been reported on the kinematic interaction. Large monopoles with low aspect ratios tend to rotate much more than regular piles in pile group foundations due to seismic waves. The rotation leads to additional load on the tower and the turbine. This article uses a rigorous numerical model for monopole‐soil interaction in layered soil and computes both rotational and horizontal responses at the pile head (seabed) as functions of frequency. A suite of generic homogeneous and heterogeneous soil profiles with shear moduli representative of clay (generally linear) and sand (generally parabolic) are considered in these analyses. Through representative analyses, both in frequency domain and time domain, it is illustrated how the kinematic interaction influences the earthquake loads imparted to an offshore wind turbine (OWT).
Seismic control of super high‐rise structures with double‐layer tuned particle damper
Authors: Shen Botan , Xu Weibing , Wang Jin , Chen Yanjiang , Yan Weiming , Huang Jianhui , Tang Zhenyun
Published: October 2020

Energy dissipation is an important method for improving the seismic performance of super high‐rise (SHR) structures. However, few quantitative studies have focused on new energy dissipation methods and their application in SHR structures, especially for those under long‐period ground motion, including near‐fault pulse‐type (NFPT) ground motion. Thus, in this study, a 1/20‐scale model of a typical SHR structure was designed and manufactured, and various earthquake waves were selected based on the site condition of the structure, such as non‐long‐period (NLP) ground motion, non‐pulse‐like long‐period (NPLP) ground motion, and NFPT ground motion. Then, a double‐layer tuned particle damper (DTPD) was fabricated, its parameters were optimized, and a design method was proposed. Finally, a series of shaking table tests were performed on the scaled model with and without DTPD. The results indicated that the dynamic responses were much greater under NPLP and NFPT than under NLP ground motion. The dynamic responses of the SHR structure were more evident when the value of velocity pulse period was close to that of the natural vibration period of the SHR structure. Moreover, the top floor of the SHR structure clearly exhibited whipcord phenomenon under NPLP and NFPT ground motions. DTPD can effectively decrease the dynamic response of SHRs. The damping performance of the DTPD under NPLP and NFPT was better than that under NLP ground motion. In addition, a smaller damping ratio at the connection between the DTPD and the structure induced a better damping performance from the DTPD.
Dorsolateral prefrontal circuit effective connectivity mediates the relationship between white matter structure andPASAT‐3 performance in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Meng Dewen , Welton Thomas , Elsarraj Afaf , Morgan Paul S. , das Nair Roshan , Constantinescu Cris S. , Evangelou Nikos , Auer Dorothee P. , Dineen Rob A.
Published: October 2020

Three decades ago a series of parallel circuits were described involving the frontal cortex and deep grey matter structures, with putative roles in control of motor and oculomotor function, cognition, behaviour and emotion. The circuit comprising the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, caudate, globus pallidus and thalamus has a putative role in regulating executive functions. The aim of this study is to investigate effective connectivity (EC) of the dorsolateral‐prefrontal circuit and its association with PASAT‐3 performance in people with multiple sclerosis(MS). We use Granger causality analysis of resting‐state functional MRI from 52 people with MS and 36 healthy people to infer that reduced EC in the afferent limb of the dorsolateral prefrontal circuit occurs in the people with MS with cognitive dysfunction (left:p= .006; right:p= .029), with bilateral EC reductions in this circuit resulting in more severe cognitive dysfunction than unilateral reductions alone (p= .002). We show that reduced EC in the afferent limb of the dorsolateral prefrontal circuit mediates the relationship between cognitive performance and macrostrucutral and microstructural alterations of white matter tracts in components of the circuit. Specificity is shown by the absence of any relationship between cognition and EC in the analogous and anatomically proximal motor circuit. We demonstrate good stability of the EC measures in people with MS over an interval averaging 8‐months. Key positive and negative results are replicated in an independent cohort of people with MS. Our findings identify the dorsolateral prefrontal circuit as a potential target for therapeutic strategies aimed at improving cognition in people with MS.
Atorvastatin and pravastatin stimulate nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species generation, affect mitochondrial network architecture and elevate nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase level in endothelial cells
Authors: Dymkowska Dorota , Wrzosek Antoni , Zabłocki Krzysztof
Published: October 2020

Statins belong to the most often prescribed medications, which efficiently normalise hyperlipidaemia and prevent cardiovascular complications in obese and diabetic patients. However, beside expected therapeutic results based on the inhibition of 3‐hydroxyl‐3‐methylglutaryl‐CoA reductase, these drugs exert multiple side effects of poorly understood characteristic. In this study, side effects of pravastatin and atorvastatin on EA.hy926 endothelial cell line were investigated. It was found that both statins activate proinflammatory response, elevate nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and stimulate antioxidative response in these cells. Moreover, only slight stimulation of the mitochondrial biogenesis and significant changes in the mitochondrial network organisation have been noted. Although biochemical bases behind these effects are not clear, they may partially be explained as an elevation of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity and an increased activating phosphorylation of sirtuin 1 (Sirt1), which were observed in statins‐treated cells. In addition, both statins increased nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase (NNMT) protein level that may explain a reduced fraction of methylated histone H3. Interestingly, a substantial reduction of the total level of histone H3 in cells treated with pravastatin but not atorvastatin was also observed. These results indicate a potential additional biochemical target for statins related to reduced histone H3 methylation due to increased NNMT protein level. Thus, NNMT may directly modify gene activity.
Plasma complement activation mechanisms differ in ornate (Terrapene ornata ornata) and eastern box turtles (Terrapene carolina carolina)
Authors: Adamovicz Laura , Baker Sarah J. , Merchant Mark , Darville Lancia , Allender Matthew C.
Published: October 2020

Eastern (Terrapene carolina carolina) and ornate (Terrapene ornata ornata) box turtles have robust plasma antibacterial activity, however, the mechanism behind this activity is unknown. We used sheep red blood cell (SRBC) hemolysis assays, mannan‐affinity chromatography, sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE), and matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight (MALDI‐TOF) to explore the mechanisms of complement activity in box turtles. Plasma from both species demonstrated volume, time, and temperature‐dependent SRBC hemolysis, with significantly greater hemolytic activity in ornate box turtle plasma. Hemolytic activity was highly attenuated following treatment with heat, EDTA, and salicylaldoxime in both species, but was unchanged after treatment with methylamine and ammonium hydroxide. Two abundant mannan‐binding proteins (presumed C‐type lectins) were identified in eastern box turtle plasma using SDS‐PAGE and MALDI‐TOF, but ornate box turtles did not express either protein. Eastern box turtles appear to rely on the lectin pathway of complement activation while ornate box turtles utilize the alternative pathway. This study provides further evidence that mechanisms underlying immune function are not always conserved between closely related species. This finding may have important implications for explaining species differences in susceptibility to emerging threats such as disease, toxicants, and climate change.
Sex‐based trade‐offs in the innate and acquired immune systems of Sternotherus minor
Authors: López‐Pérez Jorge E. , Meylan Peter A. , Goessling Jeffrey M.
Published: October 2020

Longevity patterns in most vertebrates suggest that females benefit most from maintenance investment. A reversed longevity pattern in loggerhead musk turtles (Sternotherus minor) allowed us to test trade‐offs between maintenance and survivorship. We tested the hypothesis that the sex with greater longevity has greater maintenance than the sex with shorter longevity. We also compared the following parameters between sexes: Bactericidal ability (BA) and heterophil:lymphocyte ratios (HLR). Baseline blood samples were collected from turtles in the field; a subset of turtles was returned to a laboratory for experiments of acquired immune responses to sheep red blood cells (SRBC). We found no support for the original hypothesis of reversal in sex‐dependent immune trade‐offs (difference between sex SRBC titers: p = .102; interaction between treatment and sex: p = .177; difference between treatments: p < .001; effect of sex on BA: p = .830; effect of sex on HLR: p = .717). However, we did find support for sex‐dependent differences in immunity in the relationship between HLR and body condition (BCI) (effect of BCI on HLR: p = .015). In field conditions, we found that males with higher body condition indices express stressed phenotypes more than males with lower body condition indices (p = .002). However, females expressed similar stress loads across all body conditions (p = .900). Testosterone concentrations were assayed in free‐living turtles and were not related to any of the immune parameters. Our results suggest that the immune systems play an important role in balancing sex‐specific responses to different selective pressures in S. minor.
Efficacy of silk fibroin biomaterial vehicle for in vivo mucosal delivery of Griffithsin and protection against HIV and SHIV infection ex vivo
Authors: Crakes Katti R , Herrera Carolina , Morgan Jessica L , Olstad Katie , Hessell Ann J , Ziprin Paul , LiWang Patricia J , Dandekar Satya
Published: October 2020

Introduction

The majority of new HIV infections occur through mucosal transmission. The availability of readily applicable and accessible platforms for anti‐retroviral (ARV) delivery is critical for the prevention of HIV acquisition through sexual transmission in both women and men. There is a compelling need for developing new topical delivery systems that have advantages over the pills, gels and rings, which currently fail to guarantee protection against mucosal viral transmission in vulnerable populations due to lack of user compliance. The silk fibroin (SF) platform offers another option that may be better suited to individual circumstances and preferences to increase efficacy through user compliance. The objective of this study was to test safety and efficacy of SF for anti‐HIV drug delivery to mucosal sites and for viral prevention.

Methods

We formulated a potent HIV inhibitor Griffithsin (Grft) in a mucoadhesive silk fibroin (SF) drug delivery platform and tested the application in a non‐human primate model in vivo and a pre‐clinical human cervical and colorectal tissue explant model. Both vaginal and rectal compartments were assessed in rhesus macaques (Mucaca mulatta) that received SF (n = 4), no SF (n = 7) and SF‐Grft (n = 11). In this study, we evaluated the composition of local microbiota, inflammatory cytokine production, histopathological changes in the vaginal and rectal compartments and mucosal protection after ex vivo SHIV challenge.

Results

Effective Grft release and retention in mucosal tissues from the SF‐Grft platform resulted in protection against HIV in human cervical and colorectal tissue as well as against SHIV challenge in both rhesus macaque vaginal and rectal tissues. Mucoadhesion of SF‐Grft inserts did not cause any inflammatory responses or changes in local microbiota.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that in vivo delivery of SF‐Grft in rhesus macaques fully protects against SHIV challenge ex vivo after two hours of application and is safe to use in both the vaginal and rectal compartments. Our study provides support for the development of silk fibroin as a highly promising, user‐friendly HIV prevention modality to address the global disparity in HIV infection.