bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Divulgação de informações sociais e ambientais por cooperativas agrícolas brasileiras
Authors: Bernardo Luciana Virginia Mario , Binotto Erlaine , Farinha Maycon Jorge Ulisses Saraiva , Morais Manoela , Rech Luisa Rhoden , Casarotto Eduardo Luiz , Peruzzi Adriana Zeponi
Published: January 2018

A preocupação da sociedade com os aspectos sociais e ambientais trouxe novos recursos para as organizações. As empresas precisam ter políticas ambientais e através de um planejamento proporcionar a realização de atividades que abordam estas questões. A fim de satisfazer as necessidades das partes interessadas, organizações publicam informações sobre as suas práticas sociais e ambientais nos relatórios e ambientes virtuais. Entre os formatos das empresas, cooperativas aumentam no Brasil e estão inseridas ao grupo das maiores exportadoras do país. Dadas estas características, o trabalho tem como objetivo identificar o documento utilizado para divulgar informações sobre ambiente e quais os elementos que compõem estas publicações, nos sites das cooperativas que exportam. Foi utilizado a análise documental de publicações feitas nos sites das oito cooperativas e as variáveis da Norma Brasileira de Contabilidade N°. 15. Cinco destas cooperativas divulgam em diferentes volumes de recursos de informação e do uso como websites, relatórios específicos e inclusão em relatórios de gestão. Todavia as publicações sobre o assunto precisam ser aperfeiçoadas para melhor informar os usuários destas informações. Assim haverá melhor qualidade nas publicações e facilitará a leitura e interpretação destes dados que se tornam públicos a sociedade quando divulgados, principalmente em ambientes virtuais, ao qual o acesso a informação torna-se facilitado.
Vivencias com a natureza por meio da equoterapia: um relato de experiência
Authors: Damasceno Monica Maria Siqueira , Mazzarino Jane Márcia , Feitosa Anny Kariny
Published: January 2018

Este artigo tem por objetivo relatar as experiências de um projeto realizado no Centro de Equoterapia do Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia (CEIFCE), IFCE campus Iguatu, utilizando-se da equoterapia como um método terapêutico e educacional, que utiliza o cavalo dentro de uma abordagem transdisciplinar. As sessões são desenvolvidas ao ar livre e acontecem uma vez por semana, com duração de 30 minutos para cada praticante. São executados exercícios psicomotores, de recuperação e integração. O praticante é acompanhado de acordo com sua deficiência por uma equipe composta por profissionais de áreas diversas. Cada praticante permanece no projeto por vinte quatro meses, passando por avaliação a cada três meses pela equipe. Observou-se uma gradativa evolução nos praticantes em diferentes aspectos do desenvolvimento. A vivência com equoterapia proporcionou uma relação harmoniosa entre os praticantes e a natureza, apresentou resultados para quem a pratica e, também, para a equipe que a conduz, nos aspectos físico, psíquico, moral, social e espiritual.
Intraductal Papillary Neoplasm of the Bile Duct With Invasive Adenocarcinoma Complicating IgG4-related Sclerosing Cholangitis: Report of a Case
Authors: Ashida Ryo , Sugiura Teiichi , Okamura Yukiyasu , Ito Takaaki , Sasaki Keiko , Nakanuma Yasuni , Uesaka Katsuhiko
Published: January 2018

Although there have been many previous studies of IgG4-related SC focusing on the differential diagnosis from cholangiocarcinoma, only a few patients with cholangiocarcinoma against a background of IgG4-related SC have been reported. We herein present a case of intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct (IPNB) associated with invasive carcinoma complicating IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis. A 71-year-old female with icterus was admitted to a local hospital, where stricture of the extrahepatic bile duct were detected, and subsequently referred to our hospital for possible surgery. Abdominal multidetector-row computed tomography demonstrated marked wall thickening along the entire extrahepatic bile duct. The left lateral superior bile duct (B2) and left lateral inferior duct (B3) were individually obstructed, and percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage catheters were placed in B2 and B3 separately. The patient was diagnosed to have diffusely spread cholangiocarcinoma and underwent right hepatic trisectionectomy with caudate lobectomy and pancreatoduodenectomy. A histological examination revealed intraductal papillary tumors composed of fibrovascular stalks covered by neoplastic epithelium. Carcinomatous invasion of the papillary tumors was observed in the fibromuscular layer, and there was abundant infiltration of inflammatory cells with fibrosis outside of the cancerous tissue. The inflammatory cells were primarily composed of plasma cells, a majority of which were positive for IgG4 (>30 cells/high-power field); the postoperative serum IgG4 level was 890 mg/dL. Therefore, a diagnosis of coexisting IPNB associated with invasive carcinoma and IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis was made. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of IPNB complicating IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis.
Ablation of hephaestin and ceruloplasmin results in iron accumulation in adipocytes and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Zheng Jiashuo , Chen Min , Liu Guohao , Xu En , Chen Huijun
Published: January 2018

Little is known about the iron efflux mechanism in adipocytes. Here, we used hephaestin (Heph) and ceruloplasmin (Cp) single‐knockout (KO) mice and Heph/Cp double‐KO mice to investigate the roles of multicopper ferroxidases (MCFs) in this process. We show that both HEPH and CP are expressed in subcutaneous adipose tissue. Ablation of either MCF leads to a compensatory increase in the other, which contributes to the balance of iron status. However, ablation of both MCFs together induces severe iron deposition in adipocytes which is associated with decreased adiponectin and leptin mRNA expression. Furthermore, Heph/Cp KO mice display disordered carbohydrate metabolism characterized as type 2 diabetes. Together, these results demonstrate the protective roles of HEPH and CP in preventing iron overload in adipocytes.
Plant S6 kinases do not require hydrophobic motif phosphorylation for activity in yeast lacking Ypk3
Authors: Yaguchi Misaki , Kozaki Akiko
Published: January 2018

The ribosomal protein S6 kinases (S6K) are among the major substrates and crucial effectors of the target of rapamycin (TOR) kinase, which is an evolutionarily conserved regulator of cell growth and proliferation. Recent research indicates that yeast Ypk3 is an ortholog of mammalian S6Ks. Here, we find that plant S6Ks restore ribosomal protein S6 phosphorylation in a rapamycin‐sensitive manner in yeast cells lacking Ypk3. However, phosphorylation of a hydrophobic motif, which is mediated through TOR signaling and essential for mammalian S6K activity, is not detected in plant S6Ks. Furthermore, deletion of the N‐terminal region of rice S6Ks shows phosphorylation of the hydrophobic motif and reduced rapamycin sensitivity. Our findings suggest a mechanism of plant S6K activation distinct from that of mammalian S6Ks.
p53‐independent Noxa induction by cisplatin is regulated by ATF3/ATF4 in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Sharma Kanika , Vu Thien‐Trang , Cook Wade , Naseri Mitra , Zhan Kevin , Nakajima Wataru , Harada Hisashi
Published: January 2018

The platinum‐based DNA damaging agent cisplatin is used as a standard therapy for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). However, the mechanisms underpinning the cytotoxic effects of this compound are not entirely elucidated. Cisplatin produces anticancer effects primarily via activation of the DNA damage response, followed by inducing BCL‐2 family dependent mitochondrial apoptosis. We have previously demonstrated that cisplatin induces the expression of proapoptotic BCL‐2 family protein, Noxa, that can bind to the prosurvival BCL‐2 family protein, MCL‐1, to inactivate its function and induce cell death. Here, we show that the upregulation of Noxa is critical for cisplatin‐induced apoptosis in p53‐null HNSCC cells. This induction is regulated at the transcriptional level. With a series of Noxa promoter‐luciferase reporter assays, we find that the CRE (cAMP response element) in the promoter is critical for the Noxa induction by cisplatin treatment. Among the CREB/ATF transcription factors, ATF3 and ATF4 are induced by cisplatin, and downregulation of ATF3 or ATF4 reduced cisplatin‐induced Noxa. ATF3 and ATF4 bind to and cooperatively activate the Noxa promoter. Furthermore, ERK1 is involved in cisplatin‐induced ATF4 and Noxa induction. In conclusion, ATF3 and ATF4 are important regulators that induce Noxa by cisplatin treatment in a p53‐independent manner.
Eocene to Miocene Out‐of‐Sequence Deformation in the Eastern Tibetan Plateau: Insights From Shortening Structures in the Sichuan Basin
Authors: Tian Yuntao , Kohn Barry P. , Qiu Nansheng , Yuan Yusong , Hu Shengbiao , Gleadow Andrew J. W. , Zhang Peizhen
Published: January 2018

A distinctive NNE trending belt of shortening structures dominates the topography and deformation of the eastern Sichuan Basin, ~300 km east of the Tibetan Plateau. Debate continues as to whether the structures resulted from Cenozoic eastward growth of the Tibetan Plateau. A low‐temperature thermochronology (AFT and AHe) data set from four deep boreholes and adjacent outcrops intersecting a branch of the shortening structures indicates distinctive differential cooling at ~35–28 Ma across the structure, where stratigraphy has been offset vertically by ~0.8–1.3 km. This result forms the first quantitative evidence for the existence of a late Eocene‐Oligocene phase of shortening in the eastern Sichuan Basin, synchronous with the early phase of eastward growth and extrusion of the Tibetan Plateau. Further, a compilation of regional Cenozoic structures reveals a Miocene retreat of deformation from the foreland basin to the hinterland areas. Such a tectonic reorganization indicates that Eocene to Miocene deformation in the eastern Tibetan Plateau is out‐of‐sequence and was probably triggered by enhanced erosion in the eastern Tibetan Plateau.
Elasticity of Corundum at High Pressures and Temperatures: Implications for Pyrope Decomposition and Al‐Content Effect on Elastic Properties of Bridgmanite
Authors: Wang Wenzhong , Wu Zhongqing
Published: January 2018

The thermodynamic and elastic properties of corundum at high pressures and temperatures are calculated based on density functional theory within the local density approximation. The calculated results agree well with the available experimental results and provide reliable data up to 80 GPa and 2,500 K. Our results confirm that C14 should be positive at ambient conditions. Elastic moduli of corundum, especially its shear modulus, exhibit noticeable nonlinear dependences with pressure and thereby result in the nonlinear pressure dependences of wave velocities. The decomposition of pyrope into the assemblage of bridgmanite and corundum is also investigated within the generalized gradient approximation. The calculated phase boundary is comparable to experimental results and has a positive Clapeyron slope of +2.1 MPa/K. Pyrope decomposition can result in VP, VS, and density jumps of 12.4%, 20%, and 9.8%, respectively. A small amount of pyrope dissociation can cause a large impendence contrast and may partially account for the observed discontinuities below 660 km at the subduction zone. Combining our calculations with results from the previous study, we suggest that the incorporation of Al into bridgmanite shows no discernable effect on its elastic moduli and wave velocities. This may impede the detection of Al content in bridgmanite through seismological methods.
Local Seismicity of the Rainbow Massif on the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge
Authors: Horning G. , Sohn R. A. , Canales J. P. , Dunn R. A.
Published: January 2018

The Rainbow massif, an oceanic core complex located in a nontransform discontinuity on the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge (36°N), is notable for hosting high‐temperature hydrothermal discharge through ultramafic rocks. Here we report results from a 9 month microearthquake survey conducted with a network of 13 ocean bottom seismometers deployed on and around the Rainbow massif as part of the MARINER experiment in 2013–2014. High rates (~300 per day) of low‐magnitude (average ML ~ 0.5) microearthquakes were detected beneath the massif. The hypocenters do not cluster along deeply penetrating fault surfaces and do not exhibit mainshock/aftershock sequences, supporting the hypothesis that the faulting associated with the exhumation of the massif is currently inactive. Instead, the hypocenters demarcate a diffuse zone of continuous, low‐magnitude deformation at relatively shallow (< ~3 km) depths beneath the massif, sandwiched in between the seafloor and seismic reflectors interpreted to be magmatic sills driving hydrothermal convection. Most of the seismicity is located in regions where seismic refraction data indicate serpentinized ultramafic host rock, and although the seismic network we deployed was not capable of constraining the focal mechanism of most events, our analysis suggests that serpentinization may play an important role in microearthquake generation at the Rainbow massif.
Endothelial Cells: Immunological Aspects
Authors: Cheung Kenneth CP , Ward Eleanor J , Fu Hongmei , Marelli‐Berg Federica M
Published: January 2018

Strategically located at the interface between blood and the extravascular space, the endothelium is a highly specialised cellular system, which plays a key role in physiological processes such as blood supply, nutrient delivery, metabolic homeostasis and immune cell trafficking, as well as pathological processes such as inflammation. Endothelial cells represent a highly heterogeneous population of cells with the ability to interact with and modulate the function of immune cells. These cells regulate the traffic and functions of leucocytes by expressing adhesion molecules and cytokines in a regulated way. The ability of endothelial cells to compartmentalise memory T‐cell responses via organ‐selective expression of homing receptor ligands and to recruit antigen‐specific T cells into inflammatory sites by displaying cognate major histocompatibility complex–peptide complexes contributes a new dimension to the central role played by endothelium in the regulation of immune responses.

Key Concepts

Endothelial cells are not just an inert barrier between the blood and parenchyma.

The endothelial cell orchestrates cellular processes key to the inflammatory reaction.

A regulated use of different adhesion molecules and chemokines guides tissue‐specific leucocyte extravasation.

Especially, microvascular endothelial cells can act as antigen‐presenting cells, leading to T lymphocyte extravasation.

Endothelial cells are both targets for and a source of cytokines – soluble polypeptides acting as mediators of communication with leucocytes and other cells.

Vasculature senescence plays an active role in promoting an inflammatory response.
Ageing Genes: Gerontogenes
Authors: Rattan Suresh IS
Published: January 2018

The idea of gerontogenes is in line with the evolutionary explanation of ageing as being an emergent phenomenon as a result of the imperfect maintenance and repair systems. Although evolutionary processes did not select for any specific ageing genes that restrict and determine the lifespan of an individual, the term ‘gerontogenes’ primarily refers to any genes that may seem to influence ageing and longevity, without being specifically selected for that role. Such genes can also be called ‘virtual gerontogenes’ by virtue of their indirect influence on the rate and process of ageing. More than 1000 virtual gerontogenes have been associated with ageing and longevity in model organisms and humans. The ‘real’ genes, which do influence the essential lifespan of a species, and have been selected for in accordance with the evolutionary life history of the species, are known as the longevity assurance genes.

Key Concepts

Biological ageing is a progressive decline in functional ability and an increase in the chances of frailty, diseases and death.

Ageing can be considered to set in mainly after the completion of the essential lifespan (ELS) of a species.

ELS is the duration of time required by a species in its natural environment in order to grow, develop, mature and reproduce.

Evolution has selected for longevity assurance genes (LAG) that determine ELS of a species.

Genetic pathways of maintenance and repair are the basis of LAG, and give rise to the homeodynamic space of an individual within a species.

Ageing is the progressive shrinkage of the homeodynamic space.

Evolution has not selected for any genes with the specific function of causing ageing and terminating the life of an individual.

Ageing, age‐related diseases and death are not programmed.

Genes for ageing – gerontogenes – is a conceptual term for discussing the involvement of genes in affecting the rate and extent of ageing.

Gerontogenes are not real; they are, at best, virtual in the sense that LAG become altered because of molecular damage and epigenetic alterations.

Hundreds of putative virtual gerontogenes have been associated with the longevity of model organisms and humans.

Eliminating ageing and death by gene therapy is at present only a wishful thinking.
Cytochrome
P450
(

CYP

) Gene Superfamily
Authors: Nelson David R , Nebert Daniel W
Published: January 2018

Cytochrome P450, named in the 1960s as a ‘chromatic (coloured) pigment in the cell’ having an absorption maximum of 450 nm when reduced and bound to carbon monoxide, was originally thought to be a single enzyme. P450 was correlated with drug and steroid metabolism; eventually, P450 was recognised to comprise an ancient gene superfamily encoding numerous ubiquitous enzymes that participate in countless essential life processes. Almost 55 000 P450 genes have now been named across all kingdoms of life. Nearly all eukaryotes require sterols in their membranes for essential fluidity and lipid‐packing properties; CYP51 (sterol 14α‐demethylase) synthesises these sterols and, therefore, is fundamental to eukaryotic life and most likely the ancestral P450 gene from which all others were derived. Cytochromes P450 evolved novel functions in chordates, leading to the beginning of steroid hormones. In conjunction with steroid hormone receptors, these novel regulatory pathways distinguish chordates from other animals. Among human's 57 functional CYP genes, DNA variants can cause a number of inborn errors of metabolism, other clinical diseases, and important differences in drug response.

Key Concepts

Cytochromes P450 (CYPs) are haem‐containing membrane proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or mitochondrial inner membrane.

Most CYPs require a source of electrons from an electron transfer chain to function: NADPH‐cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) in ER and ferredoxin (FDX) plus ferredoxin reductase (FDXR) in mitochondria.

CYP functions can be divided into oxidation/reduction of endogenous compounds and foreign chemicals (e.g. drugs, environmental pollutants).

Endogenous P450 substrates include mostly lipids (steroids, lanosterol, bile acids, vitamin D, retinoic acid, eicosanoids and other lipid mediators), fatty acids and haem breakdown products.

As of 2017, at least six of 57 human P450s still remain ‘orphans’ without agreed‐upon identifiable substrates.

Cytochromes P450 in humans (and most vertebrates) are divided into 18 CYP gene families – based on amino acid sequence similarity.

CYP gene polymorphisms can alter a person's ability to metabolise drugs (poor, intermediate, efficient or ultrarapid metabolisers).

Human CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 are the two major drug‐metabolising enzymes. Removal of mouse
Cyp
genes and replacement with their human
CYP
orthologous genes will lead to a better understanding of P450 metabolism that is relevant to clinical pharmacology.

Alterations in CYP drug metabolism are often responsible for adverse drug reactions – especially when multiple drugs are taken.

Triazole antifungal drugs (ketoconazole, fluconazole and itraconazole) target the CYP51 required for fungal sterol biosynthesis; mutations in this gene can lead to triazole drug resistance.
Basepair (
bp
)
Authors: Dear Paul H
Published: January 2018

A basepair is a single subunit of double‐stranded nucleic acid, consisting of two nucleotides in opposite strands linked by hydrogen bonds. Only certain combinations of nucleotides can form base pairs, so the sequence of nucleotides in one strand is complementary to the sequence in the other. Base pairing is essential not just for maintaining the double‐helical structure of DNA but also for the replication of nucleic acids, for making an RNA copy of a DNA strand, and for repairing damage to DNA. So, while the sequence of nucleotides
within
a strand encodes information, it is base pairing
between
strands that allows nucleic acids to perform most of their functions. Base pairing also underpins many aspects of biotechnology, such as DNA sequencing.

Key Concepts

Base pairing is the formation of hydrogen bonds between the bases (subunits) of two strands of DNA or RNA.

Only certain combinations of bases (complementary pairs) can form basepairs.

When DNA is replicated, or when an RNA copy is made in a process called transcription, base pairing ensures that the new DNA or RNA strand is a mirror image, or complement, of the old strand.

When damaged DNA is repaired, base pairing is used to reconstruct a damaged strand using the undamaged strand as a template.

Base pairing is also exploited in many aspects of biotechnology, such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing.
Regulatory
B
Cells
Authors: Guzman‐Genuino Ruth Marian , Diener Kerrilyn R
Published: January 2018

B cells are best known for their ability to produce antibodies and instigate immune memory necessary for the protection of the host against foreign stimuli. However, certain subsets of B cells are increasingly shown to be capable of negative immune regulation by counteracting inflammation and suppressing the immune response. These cells are aptly termed ‘regulatory B cells’ or ‘Bregs’ and carry out their function by multiple mechanisms that include production of anti‐inflammatory cytokines and cognate interaction with other immune cells. Bregs are able to restore an immune response to homeostatic levels and as such play crucial roles in health conditions requiring suppression of inflammation and/or maintenance of tolerance such as in autoimmunity, graft tolerance, allergy, infection, cancer and pregnancy. Understanding how these potent and dynamic cells can be controlled in various immune situations offers a promising avenue for the development of novel prophylactic and immune therapy treatments.

Key Concepts

Regulatory B cells or Bregs are B‐cell subsets capable of downmodulating the immune response.

Bregs can suppress the immune response by producing anti‐inflammatory cytokines such as IL‐10 and TGF‐β, or through cell–cell contact with other immune cells.

Bregs can limit the severity and progression of autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis by recruiting regulatory T cells and inhibiting proinflammatory cytokine production by helper T cells.

Higher Breg frequency in peripheral circulation is correlated with operational tolerance in transplantation patients.

Bregs induce and promote allergen tolerance primarily through IL‐10 production.

Bregs can inhibit the immune response to viral, bacterial and parasitic infections, thereby allowing pathogen survival and disease progression.

Bregs in tumour sites can hinder effector immune cells from attacking and eliminating cancer cells.

In pregnancy, Bregs are likely to play an important role in the induction of maternal tolerance necessary for the successful growth of semiallogeneic foetus.
NOD‐Like Receptors
Authors: Arnold Christine , Kienes Ioannis , Sowa Anna S , Kufer Thomas A
Published: January 2018

NOD‐like receptors (NLRs) are a family of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), able to respond to conserved microbial structures and endogenous danger signals. NLRs modulate the inflammatory response via multiple pathways including NFκB (nuclear factor kappa‐light chain‐enhancer of activated B cells)‐activation, MAPKs, ERK and inflammasome formation, which results in IL‐1β release. They act in synergy with other PRRs, bridging innate to adaptive immunity. Moreover, some NLRs directly modulate adaptive immunity via transcriptional regulation of MHC (major histocompatibility complex) class I and class II. Their essential role in orchestrating inflammatory responses is seen via their association with morbidity. NLR dysfunction can result in cancer and autoinflammatory diseases, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, pointing out their important role in maintaining gut homeostasis.

Key Concepts

NLRs are an intracellular subclass of PRRs that recognise microbe‐associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) and danger‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs).

NLRs are found in different animal species and have homologues in plants.

NLRs share a common tripartite structure, typically consisting of anN‐terminal domain from the death‐fold family, a central NACHT domain and a variable number ofC‐terminal LRRs.

Activation of NLRs primes innate and adaptive immunity and drives the expression of MHC class I and class II genes.

Some NLRs form inflammasomes, multiprotein platforms for caspase‐1 activation and IL‐1β release.

NLRs maintain gut homeostasis, differentiating between commensals and pathogens.

Mutations in NLRs can lead to severe autoinflammatory diseases, cancer, dysregulation of gut homeostasis and innate immune responses.

Evidence suggests that some NLRs are further implicated in development.

The function of some of the 22 human NLR proteins remains elusive.
Real‐Time Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: MacInnes Jeff J , Dickerson Kathryn C
Published: January 2018

Real‐time functional magnetic resonance imaging (rt‐fMRI) is an increasingly popular noninvasive technique used to study brain function in ‘real time’. In contrast to traditional fMRI, rt‐fMRI allows researchers to access and manipulate neuroimaging data as they are acquired. This advance allows experimenters to use fMRI data in novel ways, including: quality assessment, biofeedback, dynamically controlled experimental tasks and assistive technologies (e.g. control over prostheses). Cutting‐edge research in this field has demonstrated compelling findings in healthy human participants and patient populations alike, including: volitional regulation of multiple brain regions, improved symptoms in several clinical populations and successful nonverbal communication. As rt‐fMRI is still in the early phases of development, we anticipate that this technology will continue to be used in novel and exciting ways by current and future generations of scientists.

Key Concepts

Real‐time functional magnetic resonance imaging (rt‐fMRI) allows fMRI data to be analysed during data acquisition and provides a number of advantages over traditional fMRI.

Common uses of rt‐fMRI include data monitoring and quality control, neurofeedback training, dynamic task control and use as an assistive technology.

While first introduced in the late 1990s, the development and usage of rt‐fMRI have grown markedly in recent years.

Limitations and challenges of rt‐fMRI include determining effective control conditions, accounting for the lag in the BOLD signal and online data processing.

Rt‐fMRI is an exciting technique that promises to kindle both novel basic science and clinical research.
Celiac Disease: Molecular Basis
Authors: Picascia Stefania , Camarca Alessandra , Gianfrani Carmen
Published: January 2018

Celiac disease (CD) is an inflammatory and multifactorial disorder triggered by cereal gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. CD has several clinical and histological forms characterised by different grade of small intestinal inflammation. Several studies have demonstrated the key role of adaptive CD4+ T lymphocytes in gluten‐dependent enteropathy, although it has been clear that the intraepithelial CD8+ T lymphocytes of innate immunity, highly infiltrating CD mucosa, are pivotal in the induction of intestinal mucosa alteration and malfunction. Recent evidences also highlighted how adaptive CD8+ T lymphocytes restricted by HLA class I molecules contribute to the enterocytes damage through a TCR‐dependent cytotoxic activity. The recent findings on the involvement of HLA class I genes in CD susceptibility are also discussed.

Key Concepts

Celiac disease is an immune‐mediated disorder triggered by dietary gluten.

Enteropathy is the main form of celiac disease, but extra‐intestinal manifestations are also frequent.

Celiac disease has autoimmune features characterised by the production of antitissue transglutaminase antibodies, with high diagnostic relevance.

Gluten‐reactive CD4+ T cells are key players as pathogenic T helper cells.

Cytotoxic CD8+ T cells, of both innate and adaptive branches, are involved in the intestinal villous atrophy.

The current therapy is the avoidance of gluten from the diet.
5‐

HT
3

Receptors
Authors: Lummis Sarah
Published: January 2018

The 5‐HT
3
receptor is a cation‐selective member of the pentameric ligand‐gated ion channel (pLGIC) family. It differs both structurally and functionally from the other six classes of 5‐HT receptors, which are G‐protein coupled receptors. 5‐HT
3
receptors are pentamers, and five different subunits have been identified (5‐HT3A–E). These are widely distributed, both in the nervous system and in other tissues, although the stoichiometry of most functional heteromeric receptors is still not known. 5‐HT
3
receptor activation opens a nonselective cation channel, causing depolarisation in postsynaptic cells; receptor function can be modulated by a wide range of compounds including anaesthetics, opioids and alcohols. 5‐HT
3
receptors play a major role in the vomiting reflex, regulate gut motility, secretion and peristalsis in the enteric nervous system, and are involved in information transfer in the gastrointestinal tract. Disturbances within the 5‐HT
3
receptor system may contribute to the pathogenesis of a range of neurological, gastrointestinal and immunological disorders.

Key Concepts

5‐HT
3
receptors are members of the pentameric ligand‐gated ion channel family of neurotransmitter receptors.

5‐HT
3
receptors have a bullet‐shaped structure, with extracellular, transmembrane and intracellular domains.

5‐HT
3
receptor activation opens a cation channel resulting in cell depolarisation.

5‐HT
3
receptor function can be modulated by a wide range of compounds including anaesthetics, opioids and alcohols.

5‐HT
3
receptors are involved in the function of both the central and peripheral nervous systems, including specific roles in the vomiting reflex and in the gastrointestinal tract.

Disturbances within the 5‐HT
3
receptor system may contribute to the pathogenesis of a range of neurological, gastrointestinal and immunological disorders.

5‐HT
3
receptor antagonists are effective at treating nausea, emesis and irritable bowel syndrome, and have potential in a range of other disorders.
Translational potential of human brain organoids
Authors: Sun Alfred X. , Ng Huck‐Hui , Tan Eng‐King
Published: January 2018

The recent technology of 3D cultures of cellular aggregates derived from human stem cells have led to the emergence of tissue‐like structures of various organs including the brain. Brain organoids bear molecular and structural resemblance with developing human brains, and have been demonstrated to recapitulate several physiological and pathological functions of the brain. Here we provide an overview of the development of brain organoids for the clinical community, focusing on the current status of the field with an critical evaluation of its translational value.
Designing Stainless Steel Surfaces with Anti‐Pitting Properties Applying Laser Ablation and Organofluorine Coatings
Authors: Armelin Elaine , Moradi Sona , Hatzikiriakos Savvas G. , Alemán Carlos
Published: January 2018

Long‐lasting and superhydrophobic stainless steel with anti‐pitting properties is achieved by modifying conventional AISI 304L through a two‐step strategy: 1) application of a femtosecond surface laser ablation treatment to generate micro‐nano structures on the surface; and 2) deposition of organofluorine nanometric coating. Samples with two different patterns, namely paraboloid‐ and cauliflower‐like, are approached and investigated by means of contact angle hysteresis, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and electrochemical techniques. Results indicate that the stainless steel surface acquires efficient anticorrosive properties due to the homogenization and refinement of the patterned microstructure into a magnetite rich phase, in combination with the formation of a carbonaceous and sol–gel layer. The adherent semiconducting oxide layer is stable over time in presence of an aggressive chloride environment. The prepared superhydrophobic surfaces prevent the steel substrates from getting wet with water, protecting them from the pitting corrosion caused by the electrolyte intrusion. The corrosion resistance is explained by a mechanism in which, in addition of the silane coating, the air trapped into the micro‐nano patterned surfaces plays an important role.
Efficient, Selective, and Reversible SO2 Capture with Highly Crosslinked Ionic Microgels via a Selective Swelling Mechanism
Authors: Xia Ling , Cui Qing , Suo Xian , Li Yuhui , Cui Xili , Yang Qiwei , Xu Jianhong , Yang Yiwen , Xing Huabin
Published: January 2018

SO2 capture through physisorption is a promising environmental benign technology to eliminate the emission of SO2. However, designing an efficient adsorption material with high capacity and selectivity of SO2 as well as excellent reversibility remains challenging. Here, a class of highly crosslinked nonporous poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs) xerogels is prepared with high ionic density by photopolymerization of Gemini IL monomers and a microfluidic technology is further explored to prepare the corresponding monodisperse PIL microgels with uniform and controllable sizes at the diameter range from 43 to 250 µm. This kind of novel dense nonporous ionic xerogels/microgels completely exclude the adsorption of common gases (CO2, CH4, etc.), but exhibit very high SO2 adsorption capacity (498 mg g−1) via selective swelling mechanism. Unprecedented SO2/CO2 and SO2/CH4 uptake selectivities with the value up to 614 and 1992, respectively, are achieved. The selective swelling mechanism is validated by optical microscope and differential scanning calorimetry measurements. More importantly, these kinds of xerogels show excellent reversibility in adsorption–desorption cycles. Column breakthrough experiments confirm the excellent performance of these PIL xerogels in SO2 capture. This work demonstrates that designing a nonporous material that has specific swelling interactions with certain molecules can be an effective strategy for realizing extremely high selectivity.
Engineering the Exciton Dissociation in Quantum‐Confined 2D CsPbBr3 Nanosheet Films
Authors: Yang Zhi , Wang Minqiang , Qiu Hengwei , Yao Xi , Lao Xiangzhou , Xu Shijie , Lin Zhonghai , Sun Luyi , Shao Jinyou
Published: January 2018

Recent years have witnessed a rapid development of all‐inorganic halide perovskite in optoelectronic devices. Ultrathin 2D CsPbBr3 nanosheets (NSs) with large lateral dimensions have demonstrated exceptional photophysical properties because of their analogous exciton electronic structure to quantum wells. Despite the incredible progress on device performance, the photophysics and carrier transportation parameters of quantum‐confined CsPbBr3 NSs are lacking, and the fundamental understanding of the exciton dissociation mechanism is far less developed. Here, a ligands rearrangement mechanism is proposed to explain why annealed NS films have an increased charge transfer rate and a decreased exciton binding energy and lifetime, prompting tunneling as a dominant way of exciton dissociation to separate photogenerated excitons between neighboring NSs. This facile but efficient method provides a new insight to manipulate perovskite nanocrystals coupling. Moreover, ultrathin 2D CsPbBr3 NS film is demonstrated to have a enhanced absorption cross section and high carrier mobility of 77.9 cm2 V−1 s−1, contributing to its high responsivity of 0.53 A W−1. The photodetector has a long‐term stability up to three months, which are responsible for reliable perovskite‐based device performance.
Multifunctional Shell–Core Nanoparticles for Treatment of Multidrug Resistance Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wang Qi , Zhang Xiangyu , Liao Hongze , Sun Ying , Ding Li , Teng Yanwei , Zhu Wei‐Hong , Zhang Zhirong , Duan Yourong
Published: January 2018

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is the main obstruction against the chemotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Herein, a biodegradable multifunctional tumor‐targeted core–shell structural nanocarrier (RGD peptide functionalized nanoparticles, RGD‐NPs) is reported for treating MDR hepatocellular carcinoma, which consists of three components: pH‐triggered calcium phosphate shell, long circulation phosphatidylserine‐polyethylene glycol (PS‐PEG) core, and an active targeting ligand RGD peptide. Drug‐resistance inhibitor (verapamil, VER) and chemotherapeutic agent (mitoxantrone, MIT) are separately encapsulated into the outer shell layer and inner core layer to obtain VER and MIT loaded RGD‐NPs (VM‐RGD‐NPs). Due to the shell–core structure, the VER and MIT can release sequentially, thus synergistically weakening the efflux effect to MIT by MDR cells. Also, the calcium phosphate can trigger lysosomal escaping through the varied pH value. Together with the optimized internalization pathway in MDR tumor cells, the increased intracellular effective chemotherapeutic drug concentration can be realized, thus achieving the improved curative effect. In this system, the PEG extends the circulation time in vivo. Also, the peptide RGD distinctly increases the affinity to MDR tumors with respect to nontargeted nanoparticles. As a consequence, VM‐RGD‐NPs exhibit a significant synergistic effect toward the MDR hepatocellular carcinoma, providing a promising therapeutic approach for MDR tumor.
An Integrated Multifunctional Nanoplatform for Deep‐Tissue Dual‐Mode Imaging
Authors: Yang Fan , Skripka Artiom , Benayas Antonio , Dong Xianke , Hong Sung Hwa , Ren Fuqiang , Oh Jung Kwon , Liu Xinyu , Vetrone Fiorenzo , Ma Dongling
Published: January 2018

The combination of biocompatible superparamagnetic and photoluminescent nanoparticles (NPs) is intensively studied as highly promising multifunctional (magnetic confinement and targeting, imaging, etc.) tools in biomedical applications. However, most of these hybrid NPs exhibit low signal contrast and shallow tissue penetration for optical imaging due to tissue‐induced optical extinction and autofluorescence, since in many cases, their photoluminescent components emit in the visible spectral range. Yet, the search for multifunctional NPs suitable for high photoluminescence signal‐to‐noise ratio, deep‐tissue imaging is still ongoing. Herein, a biocompatible core/shell/shell sandwich structured Fe3O4@SiO2@NaYF4:Nd3+ nanoplatform possessing excellent superparamagnetic and near‐infrared (excitation) to near‐infrared (emission), i.e., NIR‐to‐NIR photoluminescence properties is developed. They can be rapidly magnetically confined, allowing the NIR photoluminescence signal to be detected through a tissue as thick as 13 mm, accompanied by high T2 relaxivity in magnetic resonance imaging. The fact that both the excitation and emission wavelengths of these NPs are in the optically transparent biological windows, along with excellent photostability, fast magnetic response, significant T2‐contrast enhancement, and negligible cytotoxicity, makes them extremely promising for use in high‐resolution, deep‐tissue dual‐mode (optical and magnetic resonance) in vivo imaging and magnetic‐driven applications.
Sulfate‐Assisted Interfacial Engineering for High Yield and Efficiency of Triple Cation Perovskite Solar Cells with Alkali‐Doped TiO2 Electron‐Transporting Layers
Authors: Singh Trilok , Öz Senol , Sasinska Alexander , Frohnhoven Robert , Mathur Sanjay , Miyasaka Tsutomu
Published: January 2018

Facile electron injection and extraction are two key attributes desired in electron transporting layers to enhance the efficiency of planar perovskite solar cells. Herein it is demonstrated that the incorporation of alkali metal dopants in mesoporous TiO2 can effectively modulate electronic conductivity and improve the charge extraction process by counterbalancing oxygen vacancies acting as nonradiative recombination centers. Moreover, sulfate bridges (SO42−) grafted on the surface of K‐doped mesoporous titania provide a seamless integration of absorber and electron‐transporting layers that accelerate overall transport kinetics. Potassium doping markedly influences the nucleation of the perovskite layer to produce highly dense films with facetted crystallites. Solar cells made from K:TiO2 electrodes exhibit power conversion efficiencies up to 21.1% with small hysteresis despite all solution coating processes conducted under ambient air conditions (controlled humidity: 25–35%). The higher device efficiencies are attributed to intrinsically tuned electronic conductivity and chemical modification of grain boundaries enabling uniform coverage of perovskite films with large grain size.
Emerging Strategies of Cancer Therapy Based on Ferroptosis
Authors: Shen Zheyu , Song Jibin , Yung Bryant C. , Zhou Zijian , Wu Aiguo , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: January 2018

Ferroptosis, a new form of regulated cell death that is iron‐ and reactive oxygen species dependent, has attracted much attention in the research communities of biochemistry, oncology, and especially material sciences. Since the first demonstration in 2012, a series of strategies have been developed to induce ferroptosis of cancer cells, including the use of nanomaterials, clinical drugs, experimental compounds, and genes. A plethora of research work has outlined the blueprint of ferroptosis as a new option for cancer therapy. However, the published ferroptosis‐related reviews have mainly focused on the mechanisms and pathways of ferroptosis, which motivated this contribution to bridge the gap between biological significance and material design. Therefore, it is timely to summarize the previous efforts on the emerging strategies for inducing ferroptosis and shed light on future directions for using such a tool to fight against cancer. Here, the current strategies of cancer therapy based on ferroptosis will be elaborated, the design considerations and the advantages and limitations are highlighted, and finally a future perspective on this emerging field is given.
Carbon‐Nanotube‐Based Thermoelectric Materials and Devices
Authors: Blackburn Jeffrey L. , Ferguson Andrew J. , Cho Chungyeon , Grunlan Jaime C.
Published: January 2018

Conversion of waste heat to voltage has the potential to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of a number of critical energy sectors, such as the transportation and electricity‐generation sectors, and manufacturing processes. Thermal energy is also an abundant low‐flux source that can be harnessed to power portable/wearable electronic devices and critical components in remote off‐grid locations. As such, a number of different inorganic and organic materials are being explored for their potential in thermoelectric‐energy‐harvesting devices. Carbon‐based thermoelectric materials are particularly attractive due to their use of nontoxic, abundant source‐materials, their amenability to high‐throughput solution‐phase fabrication routes, and the high specific energy (i.e., W g−1) enabled by their low mass. Single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) represent a unique 1D carbon allotrope with structural, electrical, and thermal properties that enable efficient thermoelectric‐energy conversion. Here, the progress made toward understanding the fundamental thermoelectric properties of SWCNTs, nanotube‐based composites, and thermoelectric devices prepared from these materials is reviewed in detail. This progress illuminates the tremendous potential that carbon‐nanotube‐based materials and composites have for producing high‐performance next‐generation devices for thermoelectric‐energy harvesting.
Clay‐Inspired MXene‐Based Electrochemical Devices and Photo‐Electrocatalyst: State‐of‐the‐Art Progresses and Challenges
Authors: Wang Hou , Wu Yan , Yuan Xingzhong , Zeng Guangming , Zhou Jin , Wang Xin , Chew Jia Wei
Published: January 2018

MXene, an important and increasingly popular category of postgraphene 2D nanomaterials, has been rigorously investigated since early 2011 because of advantages including flexible tunability in element composition, hydrophobicity, metallic nature, unique in‐plane anisotropic structure, high charge‐carrier mobility, tunable band gap, and favorable optical and mechanical properties. To fully exploit these potentials and further expand beyond the existing boundaries, novel functional nanostructures spanning monolayer, multilayer, nanoparticles, and composites have been developed by means of intercalation, delamination, functionalization, hybridization, among others. Undeniably, the cutting‐edge developments and applications of clay‐inspired 2D MXene platform as electrochemical electrode or photo‐electrocatalyst have conferred superior performance and have made significant impact in the field of energy and advanced catalysis. This review provides an overview of the fundamental properties and synthesis routes of pure MXene, functionalized MXene and their hybrids, highlights the state‐of‐the‐art progresses of MXene‐based applications with respect to supercapacitors, batteries, electrocatalysis and photocatalysis, and presents the challenges and prospects in the burgeoning field.
Bioinspired Underwater Adhesives by Using the Supramolecular Toolbox
Authors: Hofman Anton H. , van Hees Ilse A. , Yang Juan , Kamperman Marleen
Published: January 2018

Nature has developed protein‐based adhesives whose underwater performance has attracted much research attention over the last few decades. The adhesive proteins are rich in catechols combined with amphiphilic and ionic features. This combination of features constitutes a supramolecular toolbox, to provide stimuli‐responsive processing of the adhesive, to secure strong adhesion to a variety of surfaces, and to control the cohesive properties of the material. Here, the versatile interactions used in adhesives secreted by sandcastle worms and mussels are explored. These biological principles are then put in a broader perspective, and synthetic adhesive systems that are based on different types of supramolecular interactions are summarized. The variety and combinations of interactions that can be used in the design of new adhesive systems are highlighted.