bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multilevel Hollow MXene Tailored Low‐Pt Catalyst for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution in Full‐pH Range and Seawater
Authors: Xiu Luyang , Pei Wei , Zhou Si , Wang Zhiyu , Yang Pengju , Zhao Jijun , Qiu Jieshan
Published: February 2020

Multilevel hollow structures provide a superior material platform to conventional designs for exceptional functionalities enabled by wide tailorability of interfacial properties and local microenvironments. Herein, a facile strategy is reported for tailoring the electrocatalytic performance of a low‐Pt catalyst over a wide range of pH conditions using multilevel hollow MXene with sufficient diffusion channels, multiple reactive surface areas, and robust frameworks with high conductivity and hydrophilic and aggregation resistance. Their synergy with ultrafine Pt creates efficient multifunctional catalytic interfaces with high Pt utilization, and overall enhanced charge transport, H+/water adsorption activation, intermediate H binding, and ionic/mass exchange. The resultant catalyst fully exceeds the commercial 20% Pt/C by 10–20 folds in mass activity for hydrogen evolution through the full pH range. The highest mass activity of 12.94 A mgPt−1 is achieved in an alkaline electrolyte with 1/8 Pt usage of 20% Pt/C. This catalyst also exhibits the best combination of high activity, long lifetime (250 h, 31 times of Pt/C), and nearly 100% Faradaic efficiency among 20% Pt/C (8 h) and documented electrocatalysts (10–100 h) for hydrogen production in natural seawater. This study offers an effective interface‐engineering strategy to regulate electrocatalysis over broad chemical conditions to meet the complicated application criteria.
Multifunctional Phosphorus‐Containing Lewis Acid and Base Passivation Enabling Efficient and Moisture‐Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Yang Zhi , Dou Jinjuan , Kou Song , Dang Jialin , Ji Yongqiang , Yang Guanjun , Wu Wu‐Qiang , Kuang Dai‐Bin , Wang Minqiang
Published: February 2020

Multiple‐cation lead mixed‐halide perovskites (MLMPs) have been recognized as ideal candidates in perovskite solar cells in terms of high efficiency and stability due to decreased open‐circuit voltage loss and suppressed yellow phase formation. However, they still suffer from an unsatisfactory long‐term moisture stability. In this study, phosphorus‐containing Lewis acid and base molecules are employed to improve device efficiency and stability based on their multifunction including recombination reduction, phase segregation suppression, and moisture resistance. The strong fluorine‐containing Lewis acid treatment can achieve a champion PCE of 22.02%. Unencapsulated and encapsulated devices retain 63% and 80% of the initial efficiency after 14 days of aging under 75% and 85% relative humidity, respectively. The better passivation of Lewis acid implies more halide defects than Pb defects at the MLMP surface. This unbalanced defect type results from phase segregation that is the synergistic effect of Cs and halide ion migrations. Identifying defect type based on different passivation effects is beneficial to not only choose suitable passivators to boost the efficiency and slow down the moisture degradation of MLMP solar cells, but also to understand the mechanism of defect‐assisted moisture degradation.
Emerging Dual‐Channel Transition‐Metal‐Oxide Quasiaerogels by Self‐Embedded Templating
Authors: Guo Hele , Zhou Jun , Li Qianqian , Li Yueming , Zong Wei , Zhu Jixin , Xu Jingsan , Zhang Chao , Liu Tianxi
Published: February 2020

The lack of precise control of particle sizes is the critical challenge in the assembly of 3D interconnected transition‐metal oxide (TMO) for newly‐emerging energy conversion devices. A self‐embedded templating strategy for preparing the TMO@carbon quasiaerogels (TMO@C‐QAs) is proposed. By mimicking an aerogel structure at a microscale, the TMO@C‐QA successfully assembles size‐controllable TMO nanoparticles into 3D interconnected structure with surface‐enriched carbon species. The morphological evolutions of intermediates verify that the self‐embedded Ostwald ripening templating approach is responsible for the dual‐channel TMO@C‐QA formation. The general self‐embedded templating strategy is easily extended to prepare various TMO@C‐QAs, including the Co3O4@C‐QA, Mn3O4@C‐QA, Fe2O3@C‐QA, and NiO@C‐QA. Benefiting from the unparalleled 3D interconnected network of aerogels, the Co3O4@C‐QA displays superior bifunctional catalytic activities for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), as well as high specific capacity and excellent long‐term stability for lithium‐ion battery (LIB) anode. A proof‐of‐concept battery‐powered electrolyzer with Co3O4@C‐QA cathode and anode powered by a full LIB with Co3O4@C‐QA anode is presented. The battery‐powered electrolyzer made of the state‐of‐the‐art TMOs can exhibit great competitive advantages due to its supreme multifunctional energy conversion performance for future water electrolysis.
Encapsulation of Human Natural and Induced Regulatory T‐Cells in IL‐2 and CCL1 Supplemented Alginate‐GelMA Hydrogel for 3D Bioprinting
Authors: Kim Juewan , Hope Christopher M. , Gantumur Narangerel , Perkins Griffith B. , Stead Sebastian O. , Yue Zhilian , Liu Xiao , Asua Ane U. , Kette Francis D. , Penko Daniella , Drogemuller Christopher J. , Carroll Robert P. , Barry Simon C. , Wallace Gordon G. , Coates Patrick Toby
Published: February 2020

Regulatory T‐cells (Tregs) are important modulators of the immune system through their intrinsic suppressive functions. Systemic adoptive transfer of ex vivo expanded Tregs has been extensively investigated for allogeneic transplantation. Due to the time‐consuming and costly expansion protocols of Tregs, more targeted approaches could be beneficial. The encapsulation of human natural and induced Tregs for localized immunosuppression is described for the first time. Tregs encapsulated in alginate‐gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel remain viable, phenotypically stable, functional, and confined in the structure. Supplementation of the hydrogel with the Treg‐specific bioactive factors interleukin‐2 and chemokine ligand 1 improves Treg viability, suppressive phenotype, and function, and attracts to the structure CCR8+ T‐cells enriched with anti‐inflammatory subpopulations, including Tregs, from human peripheral blood. Furthermore, these findings are applicable to 3D bioprinting. Co‐axial printing of murine pancreatic islets with human natural and induced Tregs protects the islets from xenoresponse upon co‐culture with human peripheral blood mononuclear cells. This establishes the co‐encapsulation of Tregs by co‐axial 3D bioprinting as a valid option for providing local immune protection to allogeneic cellular transplants such as pancreatic islets.
Sequential Targeting in Crosslinking Nanotheranostics for Tackling the Multibarriers of Brain Tumors
Authors: Wu Hao , Lu Hongwei , Xiao Wenwu , Yang Jinfan , Du Hongxu , Shen Yingbin , Qu Haijing , Jia Bei , Manna Suman K. , Ramachandran Mythili , Xue Xiangdong , Ma Zhao , Xu Xiaobao , Wang Zhongling , He Yixuan , Lam Kit S. , Zawadzki Robert J. , Li Yuanpei , Lin Tzu‐Yin
Published: February 2020

The efficacy of therapeutics for brain tumors is seriously hampered by multiple barriers to drug delivery, including severe destabilizing effects in the blood circulation, the blood–brain barrier/blood–brain tumor barrier (BBB/BBTB), and limited tumor uptake. Here, a sequential targeting in crosslinking (STICK) nanodelivery strategy is presented to circumvent these important physiological barriers to improve drug delivery to brain tumors. STICK nanoparticles (STICK‐NPs) can sequentially target BBB/BBTB and brain tumor cells with surface maltobionic acid (MA) and 4‐carboxyphenylboronic acid (CBA), respectively, and simultaneously enhance nanoparticle stability with pH‐responsive crosslinkages formed by MA and CBA in situ. STICK‐NPs exhibit prolonged circulation time (17‐fold higher area under curve) than the free agent, allowing increased opportunities to transpass the BBB/BBTB via glucose‐transporter‐mediated transcytosis by MA. The tumor acidic environment then triggers the transformation of the STICK‐NPs into smaller nanoparticles and reveals a secondary CBA targeting moiety for deep tumor penetration and enhanced uptake in tumor cells. STICK‐NPs significantly inhibit tumor growth and prolong the survival time with limited toxicity in mice with aggressive and chemoresistant diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma. This formulation tackles multiple physiological barriers on‐demand with a simple and smart STICK design. Therefore, these features allow STICK‐NPs to unleash the potential of brain tumor therapeutics to improve their treatment efficacy.
Large‐Scale Ultrathin 2D Wide‐Bandgap BiOBr Nanoflakes for Gate‐Controlled Deep‐Ultraviolet Phototransistors
Authors: Gong Chuanhui , Chu Junwei , Qian Shifeng , Yin Chujun , Hu Xiaozong , Wang Hongbo , Wang Yang , Ding Xiang , Jiang Shangchi , Li Alei , Gong Youpin , Wang Xianfu , Li Chaobo , Zhai Tianyou , Xiong Jie
Published: February 2020

Ternary two‐dimensional (2D) semiconductors with controllable wide bandgap, high ultraviolet (UV) absorption coefficient, and critical tuning freedom degree of stoichiometry variation have a great application prospect for UV detection. However, as‐reported ternary 2D semiconductors often possess a bandgap below 3.0 eV, which must be further enlarged to achieve comprehensively improved UV, especially deep‐UV (DUV), detection capacity. Herein, sub‐one‐unit‐cell 2D monolayer BiOBr nanoflakes (≈0.57 nm) with a large size of 70 µm are synthesized for high‐performance DUV detection due to the large bandgap of 3.69 eV. Phototransistors based on the 2D ultrathin BiOBr nanoflakes deliver remarkable DUV detection performance including ultrahigh photoresponsivity (Rλ, 12739.13 A W−1), ultrahigh external quantum efficiency (EQE, 6.46 × 106%), and excellent detectivity (D*, 8.37 × 1012 Jones) at 245 nm with a gate voltage (Vg) of 35 V attributed to the photogating effects. The ultrafast response (τrise = 102 µs) can be achieved by utilizing photoconduction effects at Vg of −40 V. The combination of photocurrent generation mechanisms for BiOBr‐based phototransistors controlled by Vg can pave a way for designing novel 2D optoelectronic materials to achieve optimal device performance.
Color‐Tunable Photoluminescence and Whispering Gallery Mode Lasing of Alloyed CsPbCl3(1–x)Br3x Microstructures
Authors: An Yuehua , Shen Xia , Zhang Yanyan , Liu Da , Wu Yu , Guo Pengfei , Zhou Weichang , Hao Yuying
Published: February 2020

Bandgap engineering of perovskite micro/nanostructures is important in designing multifunctional optoelectronic circuits. Especially, wavelength tunable lasing and modes are essential to the practical applications of micro/nanoscale lasers. Here, for the first time, a sample source‐moving chemical vapor deposition approach for the spatial bandgap engineering of cesium lead halide perovskites (CsPbCl3(1–x)Br3x, X = 0–0.75) alloy microstructures on a single sapphire substrate is reported. Owing to temperature‐selected effort along the deposition zoon, cesium lead halide perovskites alloy CsPbCl3(1–x)Br3x microcrystals with engineerable bandgap from 2.39 to 2.91 eV are obtained. The emission light can be modulated gradually from blue (425 nm) to green (512 nm) under a 320 nm laser illumination. Furthermore, these alloyed perovskites structures grown on the sapphire substrate show stable emission with no measurable degradation after 24 h under a continuous wavelength 320 nm laser radiation. More importantly, high‐quality wavelength tunable whispering gallery mode lasing with emission peaks from 429 to 521 nm are first successfully fabricated based on these alloyed pervoskite crystals. These composition‐graded perovskite microcrystals demonstrated here may find applications in multicolor display and broad band light sources.
Interactive Color‐Changing Electronic Skin Based on Flexible and Piezoelectrically Tunable Quantum Dots Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Hu Han‐Wen , Shen Tien‐Lin , Lin Tai‐Yuan , Chen Yang‐Fang
Published: February 2020

Inspired by animals in nature, such as chameleons, frogs, and cephalopods, the remarkable capability of changing one's skin color has drawn considerable interests due to its wide applications in camouflage, warning methods, and visual communications. Today, research on electronic skins (e‐skins), imitating biological skin by quantifying external stimuli, to mimic this unique color‐changing function has been achieved based on the integration of a matrix of displays and sensors; however, integrated systems possess bulky and complicated fabrication processes. Here, the first attempt to demonstrate a single user‐interactive e‐skin device with color‐changing response upon applied external strain is made, while using a cost‐effective and space‐saving method, which promises to open new possibilities for the development of next‐generation e‐skins with visual response.
Stability of Perovskite Light Sources: Status and Challenges
Authors: Li Guohui , Chen Keqiang , Cui Yanxia , Zhang Yupeng , Tian Yue , Tian Bining , Hao Yuying , Wu Yucheng , Zhang Han
Published: February 2020

Stable perovskites light sources with long‐term stability are of great significance for future commercial applications. In this review, recent advances of the degradation models for perovskites and strategies for enhancing the stability of the corresponding light sources are summarized. Improving the stability and quality of perovskite materials is a common way for developing stable perovskite light sources. For strengthening the stability of perovskite light‐emitting diodes, approaches such as surface and interface engineering and employing more stable hole injection layers are effective. To enhance the stability of perovskite amplified spontaneous emission and lasers, methods such as protecting perovskites by materials with high intrinsic thermal conductivity and high stability, better thermal managements, and reducing the threshold carrier densities are useful. This work will be helpful for further prompting the performances, especially the stability of perovskite light sources in this fantastic field.
Sustainable Agriculture Practices as a Driver for Increased Harvested Cropland among Large‐Scale Growers in Arizona: A Paradox for Small‐Scale Growers
Authors: Mpanga Isaac K. , Neumann Gunter , Schuch Ursula K. , Schalau Jeff
Published: February 2020

Extreme climate variability is a major factor threatening crop production in Arizona State. However, limited information exists on how growers are adapting with land‐use practices. Using data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the Agricultural Census (2012 and 2017) of the US Department of Agriculture, this study investigates trends of land‐use practices among small‐ and large‐scale growers and their possible effects on harvested cropland. From 2012 to 2017, there are reductions in total farmlands (−0.5%) and vegetable production lands (−4%) with varying temperatures, precipitation, and drought severity index. However, harvested crop‐ and vegetable land increased by 3% and 11%, respectively, which was mainly influenced by large‐scale growers. This coincided with an increase in sustainable land‐use practices such as conservation agriculture no‐till (103%), reduced tillage (71%), and cover cropping (123%) which are most popular among large‐scale growers. Manure application also increased by 30%. However, there were reductions in other practices such as intensive tillage (−9%), use of commercial fertilizers (−0.2%), nematicides (−63%), and chemical diseases control (−16%). Unfortunately, non‐sustainable practices (irrigation, insecticide, and herbicide application increased by 27%, 39%, and 10%, respectively. This study reveals potential benefits of sustainable agricultural practices in Arizona and a need for increased adoption among small‐acreage growers.
Highly Efficient 2D NIR‐II Photothermal Agent with Fenton Catalytic Activity for Cancer Synergistic Photothermal–Chemodynamic Therapy
Authors: Zhang Qiuhong , Guo Qiangbing , Chen Qian , Zhao Xiaoxu , Pennycook Stephen J. , Chen Hangrong
Published: February 2020

Photothermal therapy (PTT) has emerged as a promising cancer therapeutic modality with high therapeutic specificity, however, its therapeutic effectiveness is limited by available high‐efficiency photothermal agents (PTAs), especially in the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) biowindow. Here, based on facile liquid‐exfoliated FePS3 nanosheets, a highly efficient NIR‐II PTA with its photothermal conversion efficiency of up to 43.3% is demonstrated, which is among the highest reported levels in typical PTAs. More importantly, such Fe‐based 2D nanosheets also show superior Fenton catalytic activity facilitated by their ultrahigh specific surface area, simultaneously enabling cancer chemodynamic therapy (CDT). Impressively, the efficiency of CDT could be further remarkably enhanced by its photothermal effect, leading to cancer synergistic PTT/CDT. Both in vitro and in vivo studies reveal a highly efficient tumor ablation under NIR‐II light irradiation. This work provides a paradigm for cancer CDT and PTT in the NIR‐II biowindow via a single 2D nanoplatform with desired therapeutic effect. Furthermore, with additional possibilities for magnetic resonance imaging, photoacoustic tomography, as well as drug loading, this Fe‐based 2D material could potentially serve as a 2D “all‐in‐one” theranostic nanoplatform.
Strategies for Improving the Stability of Tin‐Based Perovskite (ASnX3) Solar Cells
Authors: Yao Huanhuan , Zhou Faguang , Li Zhizai , Ci Zhipeng , Ding Liming , Jin Zhiwen
Published: February 2020

Although lead‐based perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are highly efficient, the toxicity of lead (Pb) limits its large‐scale commercialization. As such, there is an urgent need to find alternatives. Many studies have examined tin‐based PSCs. However, pure tin‐based perovskites are easily oxidized in the air or just in glovebox with an ultrasmall amount of oxygen. Such a characteristic makes their performance and stability less ideal compared with those of lead‐based perovskites. Herein, how to address the instability of tin‐based perovskites is introduced in detail. First, the crystalline structure, optical properties, and sources of instability of tin‐based perovskites are summarized. Next, the preparation methods of tin‐based perovskite are discussed. Then, various measures for solving the instability problem are explained using four strategies: additive engineering, deoxidizer, partial substitution, and reduced dimensions. Finally, the challenges and prospects are laid out to help researchers develop highly efficient and stable tin‐based perovskites in the future.
Coordination Engineering of Single‐Crystal Precursor for Phase Control in Ruddlesden–Popper Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Qin Yuan , Zhong Hongjie , Intemann Jeremy J. , Leng Shifeng , Cui Minghuan , Qin Chaochao , Xiong Min , Liu Feng , Jen Alex K.‐Y. , Yao Kai
Published: February 2020

2D Ruddlesden–Popper perovskites (RPPs) have recently drawn significant attention because of their structural variability that can be used to tailor optoelectronic properties and improve the stability of derived photovoltaic devices. However, charge separation and transport in 2D perovskite solar cells (PSCs) suffer from quantum well barriers formed during the processing of perovskites. It is extremely difficult to manage phase distributions in 2D perovskites made from the stoichiometric mixtures of precursor solutions. Herein, a generally applicable guideline is demonstrated for precisely controlling phase purity and arrangement in RPP films. By visually presenting the critical colloidal formation of the single‐crystal precursor solution, coordination engineering is conducted with a rationally selected cosolvent to tune the colloidal properties. In nonpolar cosolvent media, the derived colloidal template enables RPP crystals to preferentially grow along the vertically ordered alignment with a narrow phase variation around a target value, resulting in efficient charge transport and extraction. As a result, a record‐high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 14.68% is demonstrated for a (TEA)2(MA)2Pb3I10 (n = 3) photovoltaic device with negligible hysteresis. Remarkably, superior stability is achieved with 93% retainment of the initial efficiency after 500 h of unencapsulated operation in ambient air conditions.
Isolated spontaneous superior mesenteric artery dissection: A rare cause of unexplained abdominal pain
Authors: Chang Hung‐Chuen , Wu Chin‐Chu , Chen Yen‐Yang , Yang Kuo‐Ching
Published: February 2020

Isolated spontaneous superior mesenteric artery dissection is a rare disease. The natural history of this rare vascular disease is not well established. Herein, we report the case of a 41‐year‐old male presented with intermittent epigastric pain. A computed tomography scan showed a proximal superior mesenteric artery dissection with jejunal branches involvement. The symptom was improved after prostaglandin E1 therapy. A follow‐up of abdominal computed tomography showed stationary lesion of superior mesenteric artery. Gastroenterologists should recognize and pay attention to this rare cause of unexplained abdominal pain. Management of isolated superior mesenteric artery dissection is varied on the clinical presentation. Conservative treatment may be the first choice for the patients without evidence of bowel ischemia.
The implementation and initial evaluation of a physical therapy program for captive chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)
Authors: Neal Webb Sarah J. , Bridges Jennifer P. , Thiele Erica , Lambeth Susan P. , Schapiro Steven J.
Published: February 2020

Due to advances in captive nonhuman primate (NHP) medical care, the number of geriatric chimpanzees (≥35‐years old) is growing. With old age comes a variety of physical conditions, including arthritis, stroke, and mobility impairments. Programs aimed at enhancing the welfare of geriatric chimpanzees are now quite common, but there are few published empirical evaluations of the efficacy of such programs. The current study aimed to create, implement, and evaluate the effects of participation in a physical therapy (PT) program on physical health, mobility, welfare, and behavior. Nine chimpanzees with mobility impairments participated in personalized PT routines (using positive reinforcement training) twice per week for 5 months. Additionally, nine control chimpanzees (non‐mobility‐impaired, matched with PT chimpanzees on age and gender) participated in body exam behavior sessions (also using positive reinforcement training) twice per week. All chimpanzees were rated on 14 health, well‐being, and behavior items, as well as level of mobility throughout the PT program. Chimpanzees that participated in the PT program showed significant increases in ratings of physical health, well‐being, and activity levels across phases of the program. Furthermore, compared to control chimpanzees, PT chimpanzees showed significant increases in ratings of ease of movement. Because raters were not blind to physical therapy treatment, our results represent an initial evaluation of the program that may suggest that participation in the PT program has physical, behavioral, and welfare benefits. Assessments of novel geriatric‐focused care strategies and programs are essential to further enhance the welfare of the captive chimpanzee population, which is currently comprised of many geriatric animals, whose proportion of the captive population will only increase.
Deciphering Iron‐Dependent Activity in Oxygen Evolution Catalyzed by Nickel–Iron Layered Double Hydroxide
Authors: Lee Seunghwa , Bai Lichen , Hu Xile
Published: February 2020

Nickel iron oxyhydroxide is the benchmark catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline medium. Whereas the presence of Fe ions is essential to the high activity, the functions of Fe are currently under debate. Using oxygen isotope labeling and operando Raman spectroscopic experiments, we obtain turnover frequencies (TOFs) of both Ni and Fe sites for a series of Ni and NiFe layered double hydroxides (LDHs), which are structurally defined samples of the corresponding oxyhydroxides. The Fe sites have TOFs 20–200 times higher than the Ni sites such that at an Fe content of 4.7 % and above the Fe sites dominate the catalysis. Higher Fe contents lead to larger structural disorder of the NiOOH host. A volcano‐type correlation was found between the TOFs of Fe sites and the structural disorder of NiOOH. Our work elucidates the origin of the Fe‐dependent activity of NiFe LDH, and suggests structural ordering as a strategy to improve OER catalysts.
Application of silver nanoparticles containing Gundelia tournefortii L. leaf aqueous extract in the treatment of microbial diseases and cutaneous wound healing
Authors: Han Shasha , Ahmeda Ahmad , Jalalvand Ali R. , Lu Wenjing , Zangeneh Mohammad Mahdi , Zangeneh Akram
Published: February 2020

During the past few years, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) have become some of the most investigated and explored nanotechnology‐derived nanostructures, given the fact that nanosilver‐based materials have interesting, challenging, and promising characteristics suitable for various biomedical applications. AgNPs have excellent medical and nonmedical effects and applications compared with other metallic nanoparticles. As regards modern biomedical applications of AgNPs, tremendous interest is oriented toward therapeutically enhanced personalized healthcare practice. AgNPs have genuine features and impressive potential for the development of novel performance‐enhanced therapeutic alternatives, complex healthcare condition strategies, tissue restoration and regeneration materials, biomaterial and medical device coatings, detection and diagnosis platforms, drug‐delivery formulations, and antimicrobial agents. In this study, fresh leaves of Gundelia tournefortii L. were used for the synthesis of AgNPs. Also, we assessed the cytotoxic, antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, and cutaneous wound healing properties of AgNO3, G. tournefortii, and the synthesized nanoparticles (AgNPs@GT). These nanoparticles were characterized using various techniques. In X‐ray diffraction analysis, 16.7 nm was measured for the crystal size of the nanoparticles. Also, scanning and transmission electron microscopy images revealed an average diameter of 16.5 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic results indicated that antioxidant compounds in the plant were the sources of reducing power, reducing silver ions to AgNPs@GT. In vitro biological experiments indicated that AgNPs@GT has excellent antioxidant potential against DPPH, antifungal effects against Candida krusei, C. guilliermondii, C. glabrata, and C. albicans, and antibacterial activities against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhimurium, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coli O157:H7, and Bacillus subtilis. Also, these nanoparticles showed no cytotoxic effect against human umbilical vein endothelial cells. In vivo biological tests revealed that AgNPs@GT ointment significantly (p ≤ 0.01) increased the levels of wound contracture, blood vessels, hydroxyproline, hexuronic acid, hexosamine, fibrocytes, fibroblasts, and fibrocyte‐to‐fibroblast ratio and significantly (p ≤ 0.01) decreased the levels of wound area, total cells, neutrophils, and lymphocytes in rats. These results indicate that the inclusion of G. tournefortii extract ameliorates the solubility of AgNPs, which led to a marked enhancement in fungicidal, bactericidal, and cutaneous wound healing effects under in vitro and in vivo conditions.
Efficient removal of As(V) from simulated arsenic‐contaminated wastewater via a novel metal–organic framework material: Synthesis, structure, and response surface methodology
Authors: Zheng Xiao , Yi Ming , Chen Zhao , Zhang Zilong , Ye Lili , Cheng Guanwen , Xiao Yu
Published: February 2020

A novel metal–organic framework material {[N(C2H5)3][Zn2(ptmda)2(μ2‐H2O)]·(H2O)0.5}n {GUT‐3; H2ptmda is 4,4′‐([p‐tolylazanediyl]bis [methylene])dibenzoic acid} was successfully synthesized using the hydrothermal method and characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. GUT‐3 has a two‐dimensional network based on dinuclear [Zn2(ptmda)2(μ2‐H2O)]− building units which formed an eightfold interpenetration network in GUT‐3 molecules. Hirshfeld surface analysis revealed that H–H, C–H, and O–H bonds accounted for the majority of intermolecular interactions. Moreover, the interactions between GUT‐3 and As(V) – the form of As(V) is AsO43− – were analyzed in aqueous solutions in a batch system to study the effect of pH, concentration, adsorbent dose, adsorption time, adsorption temperature, and shaking speed. The kinetic and isotherm data of arsenic adsorption on GUT‐3 were accurately modeled by pseudo‐second‐order, Langmuir (qm = 33.91 mg/g), and Freundlich models. The Box–Behnken response surface method was used to optimize the adsorption conditions of As(V) from the simulated arsenic‐contaminated wastewater. The effect of various experimental parameters and optimal experimental conditions was ascertained using the quadratic model.
Effect of different forms of nano‐ZnO on the properties of PVDF/ZnO hybrid membranes
Authors: Wang Wei , Sun Hanshu
Published: February 2020

In this article, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/ZnO hybrid membranes with different forms of nano‐ZnO as additives were prepared by thermally induced phase separation. The effects of the morphology of ZnO particles on the microstructure and properties of hybrid membranes were systematically investigated. Three different forms of nano‐ZnO were characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Then a series of tests were made through XRD, Fourier transform infrared, differential scanning calorimeter, SEM, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, mechanical strength testing, porosity measurement, water contact angle measurement, pure water flux measurement, rejection measurement, flux recovery rate (FRR) measurement, and photocatalytic degradation testing to characterize the hybrid membrane. The results show that the hybrid membranes which were doped with different forms of ZnO have different structures and properties. Porous ZnO has the best modification effect on PVDF membranes. The PVDF/porous ZnO hybrid membranes' water flux and OVA rejection can reach 1.6 and 1.3 times of pure PVDF membrane, respectively, and its FRR can reach about 95%. The hybrid membrane doped with porous ZnO has excellent self‐cleaning performance, and its degradation rate of MB can reach about 51%.
Minimally invasive oesophagectomy with extended lymph node dissection and thoracic duct resection for early-stage oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Matsuda S , Kawakubo H , Takeuchi H , Hayashi M , Mayanagi S , Takemura R , Irino T , Fukuda K , Nakamura R , Wada N , Kitagawa Y
Published: February 2020

Background

Oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma is an aggressive disease owing to early and widespread lymph node metastases. Multimodal therapy and radical surgery may improve prognosis. Few studies have investigated the efficacy of radical lymph node and thoracic duct resection.

Methods

Patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent transthoracic minimally invasive oesophagectomy (TMIE) for cancer at Keio University Hospital between January 2004 and December 2016 were selected. Between 2004 and 2008, TMIE was performed in the lateral decubitus position without thoracic duct resection (standard TMIE). From 2009 onwards, TMIE with extended lymph node and thoracic duct resection was introduced (extended TMIE). Demographics, co-morbidity, number of retrieved lymph nodes, pathology, postoperative complications and recurrence-free survival (RFS) were compared between groups.

Results

Forty-four patients underwent standard TMIE and 191 extended TMIE. There were no significant differences in clinical and pathological tumour stage or postoperative complications. The extended-TMIE group had more lymph nodes removed at nodal stations 106recL and 112. Among patients with cT1 N0 disease, RFS was better in the extended-TMIE group (P < 0·001), whereas there was no difference in RFS between groups in patients with advanced disease.

Conclusion

Extended TMIE including thoracic duct resection increased the number of lymph nodes retrieved and was associated with improved survival in patients with cT1 N0 oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
Cardiovascular reactivity to acute stress associated with sickness absence among Japanese men and women: A prospective study
Authors: Hirokawa Kumi , Ohira Tetsuya , Kajiura Mitsugu , Imano Hironori , Kitamura Akihiko , Kiyama Masahiko , Okada Takeo , Iso Hiroyasu
Published: February 2020

Objective

We aimed to investigate associations between cardiovascular reactivity to acute stress and sickness absence among Japanese male and female workers, in a prospective study.

Methods

Among healthy employed Japanese workers who underwent mental health checks between 2006 and 2009, data of 111 participants were analyzed. Changes in blood pressure, pulse rate, peripheral blood flow (PBF), and heart rate variability (HRV) (high frequency [HF] and low frequency [LF]) were calculated using differences between the two tasks, mirror drawing stress [MDS] and a maze task, and the postperiod value. Sickness absence through March 2010 was followed up by mail survey (average follow‐up 2.3 years). Logistic regression analysis was used, adjusting for lifestyle factors.

Results

Among 12 participants who took sickness absences, eight were owing to mental problems. Changes in the LF during the MDS and maze tasks and LF‐to‐HF ratio during the MDS task were positively associated with all sickness absences (odds ratio [OR], 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.09, 1.03–4.22; 2.04, 1.09–3.82; and 3.10, 1.46–6.58, respectively). Changes in PBF during the MDS task were also associated with increased risk of sickness absence (OR, 95% CI: 2.53, 1.10–5.81).

Conclusion

Cardiovascular reactivity to acute stress should be considered at workers' health checks.
Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition may be involved in the immune evasion of circulating gastric tumor cells via downregulation of ULBP1
Authors: Hu Baoguang , Tian Xiaokun , Li Yanbin , Liu Yangchun , Yang Tao , Han Zhaodong , An Jiajia , Kong Lingqun , Li Yuming
Published: February 2020

Background

Increasing numbers of studies have demonstrated that circulating tumor cells (CTCs) undergo a phenotypic change termed epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), and researchers have proposed that EMT might provide CTCs with increased potential to survive in the different microenvironments encountered during metastasis through various ways, such as by increasing cell survival and early colonization. However, the exact role of EMT in CTCs remains unclear.

Methods

In this study, we identified CTCs of 41 patients with gastric cancer using Cyttel‐CTC and im‐FISH (immune‐fluorescence in situ hybridization) methods, and tested the expression of EMT markers and ULBP1 (a major member of the NKG2D—natural killer [NK] group 2 member D—ligand family) on CTCs. Moreover, we investigated the relationship between the expression of EMT markers and ULBP1 on CTCs and gastric cancer cell lines.

Results

Our results showed that the CTCs of gastric cancer patients exhibited three EMT marker subtypes, and that the expression of ULBP1 was significantly lower on mesenchymal phenotypic CTCs (M+CTCs) than on epithelial phenotypic CTCs (E+CTCs). EMT induced by TGF‐β in vitro produced a similar phenomenon, and we therefore proposed that EMT might be involved in the immune evasion of CTCs from NK cells by altering the expression of ULBP1.

Conclusions

Our study indicated that EMT might play a vital role in the immune invasion of CTCs by regulating the expression of ULBP1 on CTCs. These findings could provide potential strategies for targeting the immune evasion capacity of CTCs.
Upregulated CXCL14 is associated with poor survival outcomes and promotes ovarian cancer cells proliferation
Authors: Li Xue , Zhao Longjun , Meng Tengteng
Published: February 2020

Ovarian cancer is one of the common malignant tumours of female reproductive organs. Due to early diagnosis difficulties and lack of effective treatment in the late stage, ovarian cancer has the highest mortality rate in female reproductive system malignancies. Therefore, finding reliable early diagnosis indicators and new therapeutic targets for ovarian cancer is an urgent problem to be solved. Chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) ligand 14 (CXCL14) is a small cytokine belonging to the CXC chemokine family, which has been found to possess multi‐effects in tumourigenesis and development. Here, we reported that CXCL14 was preferentially expressed in ovarian cancer. By analysing the TCGA database, we found that CXCL14 was highly expressed in advanced ovarian cancer patients and correlated with poor prognosis. In addition, the abnormal high CXCL14 levels were observed in serum and ovarian tissue of ovarian cancer patients by qRT‐PCR and ELISA. In vitro and in vivo experiments both confirmed that overexpression of CXCL14 promoted the ovarian cancer cell proliferation. Moreover, transfection of CXCL14 increased the phosphorylation level of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), and administration of STAT3 inhibitor III inhibited the tumour‐promoting effects of CXCL14. Therefore, our study suggests that CXCL14 could be utilised as a novel adjunct biomarker for early diagnosis of ovarian cancer and provides new targets and ideas for the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer.

Significance paragraph

CXCL14 could be utilised as a novel adjunct biomarker for early diagnosis of ovarian cancer and provides new targets and ideas for the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer.
Long‐term serial functional evaluation after implantation of the Fantom sirolimus‐eluting bioresorbable coronary scaffold
Authors: Saito Yuichi , Cristea Ecaterina , Bouras Georgios , Abizaid Alexandre , Lutz Matthias , Carrié Didier , Weber‐Albers Joachim , Dudek Darius , Anderson Jeffrey , Lansky Alexandra ,   the FANTOM II Clinical Investigators
Published: February 2020

Background

Quantitative flow ratio (QFR) has been validated as an accurate surrogate of standard wire‐based fractional flow reserve. The clinical and angiographic outcomes of the Fantom sirolimus‐eluting bioresorbable coronary scaffold (BRS) have been previously studied and reported. We investigate the functional performance of the Fantom BRS.

Methods

The FANTOM II trial prospectively enrolled 240 patients with stable coronary artery disease or unstable angina, of which 235 patients received the Fantom BRS and were included in the present analysis. We performed an independent serial QFR analysis of the target vessel at baseline, post‐percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), and at 6‐ or 9‐month and 24‐month follow‐up, using a QFR threshold ≤0.80 to define functional ischemia.

Results

QFR was analyzable in 178 patients at baseline, 185 post‐PCI, 178 at 6‐ or 9‐month follow‐up, and 30 at 24‐month follow‐up. At baseline, 119 patients (66.9%) had a QFR ≤0.80, whereas 12 (6.5%) post‐PCI, 13 (7.3%) at 6‐ or 9‐month follow‐up, and 3 (10.0%) at 24‐month follow‐up had a QFR ≤0.80. QFR improved from baseline to post‐PCI, and decreased from post‐PCI up to 24‐month follow‐up. During follow‐up period, 28 patients (11.9%) had target vessel revascularization, of which 21 had analyzable QFR and 16 patients (76.1%) had QFR ≤0.80 at the time of revascularization.

Conclusions

Off‐line serial QFR assessment demonstrated that around 30% patients did not have functionally significant lesions at baseline and the time with target vessel revascularization. PCI with the Fantom BRS improved functional ischemia with a slight decrease in QFR values over 24 months.
High‐Performance Gel Polymer Electrolyte Based on Chitosan–Lignocellulose for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Han Jia‐Yue , Huang Yun , Chen Yao , Song A‐Min , Deng Xiao‐Hua , Liu Bo , Li Xing , Wang Ming‐Shan
Published: February 2020

A new gel polymer electrolyte (GPE) based on chitosan‐lignocellulose composites with a smooth and porous structure for applications in lithium‐ion batteries was prepared. The obtained GPE matrix and GPE show excellent comprehensive performances. The GPE matrix based on the composite containing 15 % chitosan (denoted CSLC‐15) had the best performance, with liquid electrolyte uptake of up to 749.1 wt %. The ionic conductivity for corresponding GPE is 2.89 mS cm−1 at room temperature, and the lithium ion transference number is 0.90. The GPE proved promising for use in lithium‐ion batteries, offering a large electrochemical window (4.8 V) and excellent interfacial compatibility (a stable impedance value of 227.97 Ω after 30 days). Moreover, the GPE shows excellent thermal and mechanical properties, and high C‐rates capability (163.13 mAh g−1, 152.53 mAh g−1, 144.27 mAh g−1, 128.45 mAh g−1, 156.12 mAh g−1, at 0.2 C, 0.5 C, 1.0 C, 2.0 C, 0.2 C, respectively) and cycle performance (161.99 mAh g−1 at the 99th cycle of 0.2 C), which proved its suitability of use in lithium‐ion batteries.
Lithium–Lanthanide Bimetallic Metal–Organic Frameworks towards Negative Electrode Materials for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Song Xiao‐Yi , Zhang Yu‐Hang , Sun Ping‐Ping , Gao Jun , Shi Fa‐Nian
Published: February 2020

Novel lithium–lanthanide (Ln: cerium and praseodymium) bimetallic coordination polymers with formulas C10H2LnLiO8 (Ln: Ce (CeLipma) and Pr (PrLipma)) and C10H3CeO8 (Cepma) were prepared through a simple hydrothermal method. The three compounds were characterized by means of FTIR spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, SEM, TEM, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The results of structural refinement show that they belong to triclinic symmetry and P
space group with cerium (or praseodymium) and lithium cations, forming coordination bonds to oxygen atoms from different pyromellitic acid molecules, and leading to the construction of 3D structures. It is interesting to note that the frameworks exclude any coordination water and lattice water. As an electrode material for lithium‐ion batteries, CeLipma exhibits a maximum capacity of 800.5 mAh g−1 and a retention of 91.4 % after 50 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g−1. The favorable electrochemical properties of the lanthanide coordination polymers show potential application prospects in the field of electrode materials.
Catalytic Platinum Nanoparticles Decorated with Subnanometer Molybdenum Clusters for Biomass Processing
Authors: Zheng Yiteng , Tang Ziyu , Podkolzin Simon G.
Published: February 2020

The development of improved technologies for biomass processing into transportation fuels and industrial chemicals is hindered due to a lack of efficient catalysts for selective oxygen removal. Here we report that platinum nanoparticles decorated with subnanometer molybdenum clusters can efficiently catalyze hydrodeoxygenation of acetic acid, which serves as a model biomass compound. In contrast with monometallic Mo catalysts that are inactive and monometallic Pt catalysts that have low activities and selectivities, bimetallic Pt–Mo catalysts exhibit synergistic effects with high activities and selectivities. The maximum activity occurs at a Pt to Mo molar ratio of three. Although Mo atoms themselves are catalytically inactive, they serve as preferential binding anchors for oxygen atoms while a catalytic transformation proceeds on neighboring surface Pt atoms. Beyond biomass processing, Pt–Mo nanoparticles are promising catalysts for a wide variety of reactions that require a transformation of molecules with an oxygen atom and, more broadly, in other fields of science and technology that require tuning of surface–oxygen interactions.
Docking Site Modulation of Isostructural Covalent Organic Frameworks for CO2 Fixation
Authors: Yang Fan , Li Yusen , Zhang Ting , Zhao Ziqiang , Xing Guolong , Chen Long
Published: February 2020

Three isostructural covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with either methoxyl, hydroxyl, or both groups on the channel wall, are synthesized and served as metal‐free heterogeneous catalysts for chemical fixation of CO2. Among them, the COF decorated with both hydroxyl and methoxyl groups named OMe‐OH‐TPBP‐COF exhibits the highest catalytic activity and efficiency for CO2 cycloaddition under mild conditions.
Simple Synthetic Routes to N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Gold(I)–Aryl Complexes: Expanded Scope and Reactivity
Authors: Tzouras Nikolaos V. , Saab Marina , Janssens Wim , Cauwenbergh Thibault , Van Hecke Kristof , Nahra Fady , Nolan Steven P.
Published: February 2020

The discovery of sustainable and scalable synthetic protocols leading to gold–aryl compounds bearing N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) ligands sparked an investigation of their reactivity and potential utility as organometallic synthons. The use of a mild base and green solvents provide access to these compounds, starting from widely available boronic acids and various [Au(NHC)Cl] complexes, with reactions taking place under air, at room temperature and leading to high yields with unprecedented ease. One compound, (N,N′‐bis[2,6‐(di‐isopropyl)phenyl]imidazol‐2‐ylidene)(4‐methoxyphenyl)gold, ([Au(IPr)(4‐MeOC6H4)]), was synthesized on a multigram scale and used to gauge the reactivity of this class of compounds towards C−H/N−H bonds and with various acids, revealing simple pathways to gold–based species that possess attractive properties as materials, reagents and/or catalysts.
Scale‐up of Microfiltration Processes
Authors: Haindl Susanne , Stark Julia , Dippel Jannik , Handt Sebastian , Reiche Annette
Published: February 2020

A flow rate and resistance‐based approach for upscaling of microfiltration processes from lab scale to process scale is presented, in correlation with biopharmaceutical processes. Basic element is the modeling of filtration curves using a resistance‐in‐series model based on the Darcy equation. The influences of the filtration setup and the fouling layer are described as additional resistances that change in course of filtration. The necessary parameters, such as setup resistances and filtration areas, are determined by water flow rate measurements. The model is validated by filtration of a particulate test solution. The presented approach can be used for constant flow and constant pressure driven filtration processes.
A Student's t‐based density peaks clustering with superpixel segmentation (tDPCSS) method for image color clustering
Authors: Li Zhijiang , Zheng Yingping , Cao Liqin , Jiao Lei , Zhong Yanfei , Zhang Caiyi
Published: February 2020

Image color clustering is a basic technique in image processing and computer vision, which is often applied in image segmentation, color transfer, contrast enhancement, object detection, skin color capture, and so forth. Various clustering algorithms have been employed for image color clustering in recent years. However, most of the algorithms require a large amount of memory or a predetermined number of clusters. In addition, some of the existing algorithms are sensitive to the parameter configurations. In order to tackle the above problems, we propose an image color clustering method named Student's t‐based density peaks clustering with superpixel segmentation (tDPCSS), which can automatically obtain clustering results, without requiring a large amount of memory, and is not dependent on the parameters of the algorithm or the number of clusters. In tDPCSS, superpixels are obtained based on automatic and constrained simple non‐iterative clustering, to automatically decrease the image data volume. A Student's t kernel function and a cluster center selection method are adopted to eliminate the dependence of the density peak clustering on parameters and the number of clusters, respectively. The experiments undertaken in this study confirmed that the proposed approach outperforms k‐means, fuzzy c‐means, mean‐shift clustering, and density peak clustering with superpixel segmentation in the accuracy of the cluster centers and the validity of the clustering results.