bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the optimal number of dose‐limiting shells in the SBRT auto‐planning design for peripheral lung cancer
Authors: Duan Yanhua , Gan Wutian , Wang Hao , Chen Hua , Gu Hengle , Shao Yan , Feng Aihui , Ying Yanchen , Fu Xiaolong , Zhang Chenchen , Xu Zhiyong , Jeff Yue Ning
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The number of dose‐limiting shells in the optimization process is one of the key factors determining the quality of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) auto‐planning in the Pinnacle treatment planning system (TPS). This study attempted to derive the optimal number of shells by evaluating the auto‐plans designed with different number of shells for peripheral lung cancer patients treated with SBRT.

Methods

Identical treatment technique, optimization process, constraints, and dose calculation algorithm in the Pinnacle TPS were retrospectively applied to 50 peripheral lung cancer patients who underwent SBRT in our center. For each of the patients, auto‐plans were optimized based on two shells, three shells, four shells, five shells, six shells, seven shells, eight shells, respectively. The optimal number of shells for the SBRT auto‐planning was derived through the evaluations and comparisons of various dosimetric parameters of planning target volume (PTV) and organs at risk (OARs), monitor units (MU), and optimization time of the plans.

Results

The conformity index (CI) and the gradient index (GI) of PTV, the maximum dose outside the 2 cm of PTV (D2cm), Dmax of spinal cord (SCmax), the percentage of volume of total lung excluding ITV receiving 20 Gy (V20) and 10 Gy (V10), and the mean lung dose (MLD) were improved when the number of shell increased, but the improvement became not significant as the number of shell reached six. The monitor units (MUs) varied little among different plans where no statistical differences were found. However, as the number of shell increased, the auto‐plan optimization time increased significantly.

Conclusions

It appears that for peripheral lung SBRT plan using six shells can yield satisfactory plan quality with acceptable beam MUs and optimization time in the Pinnacle TPS.
Immunomodulatory Medication Use in Newly Diagnosed Youth With Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Davis Alaina , Chang Joyce , Shapiro Sarah , Klein‐Gitelman Marisa , Faerber Jennifer , Katcoff Hannah , Cidav Zuleyha , Mandell David S. , Knight Andrea
Published: July 2020

Objective

To examine glucocorticoid‐sparing immunomodulatory medication use in youth with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) during their first year of care.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using administrative claims for 2000 to 2013 from Clinformatics DataMart for youth ages 10–24 years with an incident diagnosis of SLE (≥3 International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes for SLE [710.0], each >30 days apart). We determined the proportion of subjects filling a prescription for immunomodulatory medications within 12 months of the first SLE code (index date). We used multivariable regression to examine associations between demographic/disease factors and time to prescription fill in the first year, and also between prescription fill at any time after the index date.

Results

We identified 532 youth with an incident SLE diagnosis, of which 413 (78%) had a glucocorticoid‐sparing immunomodulatory prescription fill in the first year. Prescriptions for hydroxychloroquine and immunosuppressants were filled in the first year by 366 youth (69%) and by 182 (34%), respectively. Those with adult‐onset (versus childhood‐onset) disease were less likely to fill an immunomodulatory medication by 12 months. No other statistically significant associations were found, although there was increasing likelihood of immunomodulatory medication fills with each subsequent calendar year.

Conclusion

Among youth with newly diagnosed SLE, hydroxychloroquine use is prevalent although not universal, and prescription immunosuppressant use is notably low during the first year of care. Further research is needed to identify factors contributing to suboptimal immunomodulatory medication use during the first year of care.
Electrospinning Multilayered Scaffolds Loaded with Melatonin and Fe3O4 Magnetic Nanoparticles for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Chen Xuan , Ge Xuemei , Qian Yun , Tang Haozheng , Song Jialin , Qu Xinhua , Yue Bing , Yuan Wei‐En
Published: July 2020

Peripheral nerve injury is a common clinical problem bringing heavy burden to patients, due to its high incidence and unsatisfactory treatment. Nerve guidance conduit (NGC) is a promising scaffold for peripheral nerve repair, and bioactive agents are applied for great functional recovery. Melatonin (MLT) and Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4‐MNPs) are proven to inhibit oxidative stress, inflammation, and induce nerve regeneration. Herein, a multilayered composite NGC loaded with MLT and Fe3O4‐MNPs is designed for sequential and sustainable drug release, creating an appropriate microenvironment for nerve regeneration. The composite scaffold shows sufficient mechanical strength and biocompatibility in vitro, and evidently promotes morphological, functional, and electrophysiological recovery of regenerated sciatic nerves in vivo. This work proves that the multilayered conduits show great prospect in the long‐term nerve defects treatment due to easy manufacture and desired efficacy.
Antineoplastic Drug‐Free Anticancer Strategy Enabled by Host‐Defense‐Peptides‐Mimicking Synthetic Polypeptides
Authors: Shen Wei , Zhang Yu , Wan Pengqi , An Lin , Zhang Peng , Xiao Chunsheng , Chen Xuesi
Published: July 2020

An antineoplastic drug‐free anticancer strategy enabled by host defense peptides (HDPs)‐mimicking synthetic polypeptides is reported. The polypeptide exhibits a broad spectrum of anticancer activity in 12 cancer cell lines, including drug‐resistant and highly metastatic tumor cells. Detailed mechanistic studies reveal that the cationic anticancer polypeptide (ACPP) can directly induce rapid necrosis of cancer cells within minutes through a membrane‐lytic mechanism. Moreover, a pH‐sensitive zwitterionic derivative of ACPP (DA‐ACPP) is prepared for in vivo application. DA‐ACPP shows negligible hemolysis under neutral physiological conditions, and can be converted back to ACPP in slightly acidic tumor environments, resulting in selective killing of cancer cells. Consequently, DA‐ACPP shows an effective inhibition of tumor growth in both 4T1 orthotopic breast tumor models and B16‐F10 melanoma pulmonary metastatic models. Overall, these findings demonstrate that synthetic HDPs‐mimicking polypeptides represent safe and effective antineoplastic agents, which sheds new light on the development of drug‐free synthetic polymers for cancer therapy.
High‐Performance Nonvolatile Organic Photonic Transistor Memory Devices using Conjugated Rod–Coil Materials as a Floating Gate
Authors: Chiang Yun‐Chi , Hung Chih‐Chien , Lin Yan‐Cheng , Chiu Yu‐Cheng , Isono Takuya , Satoh Toshifumi , Chen Wen‐Chang
Published: July 2020

A novel approach for using conjugated rod–coil materials as a floating gate in the fabrication of nonvolatile photonic transistor memory devices, consisting of n‐type Sol‐PDI and p‐type C10‐DNTT, is presented. Sol‐PDI and C10‐DNTT are used as dual functions of charge‐trapping (conjugated rod) and tunneling (insulating coil), while n‐type BPE‐PDI and p‐type DNTT are employed as the corresponding transporting layers. By using the same conjugated rod in the memory layer and transporting channel with a self‐assembled structure, both n‐type and p‐type memory devices exhibit a fast response, a high current contrast between “Photo‐On” and “Electrical‐Off” bistable states over 105, and an extremely low programing driving force of 0.1 V. The fabricated photon‐driven memory devices exhibit a quick response to different wavelengths of light and a broadband light response that highlight their promising potential for light‐recorder and synaptic device applications.
2D Materials Decorated with Ultrathin and Porous Graphene Oxide for High Stability and Selective Surface Activity
Authors: Jang Ji‐Soo , Jung Hong Ju , Chong Sanggyu , Kim Dong‐Ha , Kim Jihan , Kim Sang Ouk , Kim Il‐Doo
Published: July 2020

2D black phosphorus (BP) and MXenes have triggered enormous research interest in catalysis, energy storage, and chemical sensing. Unfortunately, the low stability of these materials under practical operating conditions remains a critical bottleneck, particularly as they are prone to oxidization under moisture. In this work, the design and application of stable 2D heterostructures obtained from decorating BP and MXene (Ti3C2Tx) with few‐layer holey graphene oxide (FHGO) membranes are presented. In the resulting heterostructured systems, FHGO serves as a multifunctional passivation layer that shields BP or MXene from oxidative degradation, while allowing the selective diffusion of target gas molecules through its micropores and toward the underlying 2D material. Through a case study of dilute NO2 sensing, it is demonstrated that these heterostructures show a greatly enhanced sensing performance under humid conditions, where fast sensing speed and response are consistently observed, and high stability is impressively retained upon repetitive sensing cycles for 1000 min. These results corroborate the efficacy of material decoration with porous FHGO membranes and suggest that this is a generalizable strategy for reliable high‐performance applications of 2D materials.
Solvent‐Mediated n‐Type Doping of SWCNTs to Achieve Superior Thermoelectric Power Factor
Authors: Chen Ruisi , Tang Junhui , Yan Yajie , Liang Ziqi
Published: July 2020

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been demonstrated as promising candidates for thermoelectrics (TEs) owing to their excellent electrical and mechanical properties. Here a new dopant to obtain flexible n‐type CNT‐based TE films from solution is reported. By doping single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBAB), p‐type nanotubes can be successfully converted to n‐type form, which is confirmed by both Raman and X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS) spectra. Furthermore, the influences of doping concentration and dispersion medium on TE properties are investigated. The optimal n‐type SWCNT films fabricated in N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) solvent exhibit an impressive power factor of 339 µW m−1 K−2 and excellent air stability by less than 10% variation of Seebeck coefficient during 192 h at room temperature without encapsulation, both of which are among the hitherto highest reported. This work sheds light on the interaction between TBAB molecules and SWCNTs in different dispersion media and offers a guideline for efficient n‐doping of SWCNT based TE materials.
Electrically Induced Splitting of the Selective Reflection in Polymer Stabilized Cholesteric Liquid Crystals
Authors: Radka Brian P. , King Brent E. , McConney Michael E. , White Timothy J.
Published: July 2020

Electrical reconfiguration of the cholesteric liquid crystal phase is subject to extensive prior research. Here, a distinctive composition that allows the typically singular selective reflection to be split into two distinct and tunable selective reflections with an electric field is reported. The distinctive electro‐optic phenomena (reflection notch splitting) are shown to be composition dependent and enabled by the introduction of appreciable amounts of side chain liquid crystalline mesogens. Functional opportunities enabled by the distinguished control of the two reflection elements are demonstrated, including spectrally variant polarization filters.
Reducing Capacity and Voltage Decay of Co‐Free Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 as Positive Electrode Material for Lithium Batteries Employing an Ionic Liquid‐Based Electrolyte
Authors: Wu Fanglin , Kim Guk‐Tae , Diemant Thomas , Kuenzel Matthias , Schür Annika Regitta , Gao Xinpei , Qin Bingsheng , Alwast Dorothea , Jusys Zenonas , Behm Rolf Jürgen , Geiger Dorin , Kaiser Ute , Passerini Stefano
Published: July 2020

Lithium‐rich layered oxides (LRLOs) exhibit specific capacities above 250 mAh g−1, i.e., higher than any of the commercially employed lithium‐ion‐positive electrode materials. Such high capacities result in high specific energies, meeting the tough requirements for electric vehicle applications. However, LRLOs generally suffer from severe capacity and voltage fading, originating from undesired structural transformations during cycling. Herein, the eco‐friendly, cobalt‐free Li1.2Ni0.2Mn0.6O2 (LRNM), offering a specific energy above 800 Wh kg−1 at 0.1 C, is investigated in combination with a lithium metal anode and a room temperature ionic liquid‐based electrolyte, i.e., lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide and N‐butyl‐N‐methylpyrrolidinium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide. As evidenced by electrochemical performance and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and online differential electrochemical mass spectrometry characterization, this electrolyte is capable of suppressing the structural transformation of the positive electrode material, resulting in enhanced cycling stability compared to conventional carbonate‐based electrolytes. Practically, the capacity and voltage fading are significantly limited to only 19% and 3% (i.e., lower than 0.2 mV per cycle), respectively, after 500 cycles. Finally, the beneficial effect of the ionic liquid‐based electrolyte is validated in lithium‐ion cells employing LRNM and Li4Ti5O12. These cells achieve a promising capacity retention of 80% after 500 cycles at 1 C.
Analysis of genes and metabolites associated with propamocarb hydrochloride response in tobacco
Authors: Yang Huijuan , Zhang Yuning , Shi Hongzhi
Published: July 2020

Propamocarb hydrochloride is a systemic fungicide used against Pythium and Phytophthora as well as other diseases in tobacco. This study aimed to understand the response of tobacco to propamocarb hydrochloride treatment at the transcriptome and metabolome levels. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were conducted on tobacco leaves treated with or without propamocarb hydrochloride to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differential metabolites, which were used for further functional enrichment analyses. In all, 1364 to 2497 DEGs and 34 differential metabolites were identified in different comparable groups. The DEGs were significantly involved in functions related to photosynthesis and valine, leucine, and isoleucine degradation. Differential metabolites were mainly associated with arginine and proline metabolism (1,3‐diaminopropane; 4‐aminobutyric acid; and N‐(omega)‐hydroxyarginine) and glycerophospholipid metabolism (lysoPC(16:0), phosphorylcholine, and triethanolamine). Our study identified differential genes and metabolites that were associated with the response of tobacco leaves to propamocarb hydrochloride. Propamocarb hydrochloride could influence the photosynthesis, amino acid metabolism, and glycerophospholipid metabolism of tobacco leaves.
Investigation of the applicability of TiO2, BiVO4, and WO3 nanomaterials for advanced photocatalytic membranes used for oil‐in‐water emulsion separation
Authors: Nascimben Santos Erika , Ágoston Áron , Kertész Szabolcs , Hodúr Cecilia , László Zsuzsanna , Pap Zsolt , Kása Zsolt , Alapi Tünde , Krishnan S.A. Gokula , Arthanareeswaran Gangasalam , Hernadi Klara , Veréb Gábor
Published: July 2020

In the present study, a commercial TiO2, several BiVO4 photocatalysts, a WO3 nanomaterial, and their composites were used to prepare photocatalytic polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) ultrafilter membranes. Their photocatalytic activities and the effects of coatings on the filtration of oil‐in‐water emulsion (crude oil; coil = 100 mg L−1) were investigated. Fluxes, filtration resistances, purification efficiencies, and fouling resistance abilities—like flux decay ratios (FDRs) and flux recovery ratios (FRRs)—were compared. The solar light‐induced photocatalytic decomposition of the foulants was also investigated. WO3 was used as a composite component to suppress the electron–hole recombination with the goal of achieving higher photocatalytic activity, but the presence of WO3 was not beneficial concerning the filtration properties. However, the application of TiO2, one of the investigated BiVO4 photocatalysts, and their composites was also beneficial. In the case of the neat membrane, only 87 L m−2 h−1 flux was measured, whereas with the most beneficial BiVO4 coating, 464 L m−2 h−1 flux was achieved. Pure BiVO4 coating was more beneficial in terms of filtration properties, whereas pure TiO2 coating proved to be more beneficial concerning the photocatalytic regeneration of the membrane. The TiO2(80%)/BiVO4(20%) composite was estimated to be the most beneficial combination taking into account both the aspects of photocatalytic activity and filtration properties.
Optimization of sulfonated polyethyleneimine zwitterionic coating mediated by polydopamine for poly(vinyl chloride) antifouling
Authors: Xu Wei , Li Shuangyang , Ye Zhanpeng , Zhang Jianhua , Deng Liandong , Dong Anjie
Published: July 2020

Although poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) has been widely used as blood‐contacting materials in extracorporeal circuits and indwelling medical devices, its hydrophobicity also is a limitation due to the adsorption of plasma proteins and the immediately followed thrombosis cascade and bacterial infections. Herein, we developed a mild and simple strategy for improving the hydrophilicity and antifouling properties of the surface via mussel‐inspired chemistry. Different amounts of 1,3‐Propanesultone (1,3‐PS) were attached onto the polyethyleneimine (PEI), so as to modify it into the zwitterion, called PESX. Two layer‐by‐layer approaches about PESX grafting on PVC substrates were designed. One strategy was by coating PESX after coating polydopamine (PDA) on PVC surface, obtaining PDA‐PESX coatings. The other was by grafting PESX after co‐deposition treatment of PDA and PESX with appropriate feeding ratio on PVC, obtaining PDA/PESX‐PESX coatings. The study results indicated that the PDA/PES0.5‐PES0.5 coatings with optimized PEI molecular weight and sulfonation degree, presented about 2.5–3 times reduction in BSA adsorption (0.77 μg/cm2) compared with PDA/PES0.5 (1.93 μg/cm2) and PDA‐PES0.5 (2.26 μg/cm2), and kept long time antifouling stability. Moreover, the more excellent antifouling performance of PDA/PES0.5‐PES0.5 was also seen on fibrinogen (Fg), γ‐globulin (γ‐GL), and the mixture of these proteins. Meanwhile, PDA/PES0.5‐PES0.5 could prevent the adhesion of blood components and bacteria on the surface as well as maintain excellent hemocompatibility and cytocompatibility. We had hopes that our simple and mild strategy will find practical application in surface engineering of clinical use in blood‐contacting medical devices.
Poly(hydroxamic acid) ligand from palm‐based waste materials for removal of heavy metals from electroplating wastewater
Authors: Rahman Md Lutfor , Wong Zhi Jian , Sarjadi Mohd Sani , Abdullah Mohd Harun , Heffernan Maria A. , Sarkar Md Shaheen , O'Reilly Emmet
Published: July 2020

Heavy metals pollutants are nonbiodegradable and their bioaccumulation results in detrimental environmental consequences. Therefore, it is important to effectively remove toxic heavy metal waste from industrial sewage. Thus, the main goal of this research is to synthesize an ideal cellulose‐based adsorbent from palm‐based waste materials (agro waste) in order to be utilized in real‐life practical applications with low cost as such removing common toxic heavy metals from industrial effluents. A poly(methyl acrylate) grafted palm cellulose was synthesized via a free‐radical initiation process, followed by an oximation reaction to yield poly(hydroxamic acid) ligands. The adsorption capacity (qe) of poly(hydroxamic acid) ligands for metal ions such as copper (Cu2+), iron (Fe3+), and lead (Pb2+) were 325, 220, and 300 mg g−1, respectively at pH 6. In addition, the X‐ray photoelectron spectrometry results are to be proved the binding of metal ions, for instance, Cu(II) ions showed typically significant BEs of 932.7 and 952.0 eV corresponding to the Cu2p3/2 and Cu2p1/2 species. The heavy metal ions adsorption followed a pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model pathway. The adsorption capacity (qm) is also derived from the Langmuir isotherm linear plot, which does not showed good correction coefficients. However, the results were correlated to the Freundlich isotherm model, where the R2 value showed significance (>0.98), indicating that multiple layer adsorption occurs on the synthesized ligand. The synthesized polymeric ligand is an excellent adsorbent for the removal of heavy metals from the industrial wastewater. In addition, the metal analysis results showed that about 98% removal of copper and iron ions from electroplating wastewater including lead, nickel, and chromium can be removed up to 85–97%.
An Efficient RuTe2/Graphene Catalyst for Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution Reaction in Acid Electrolyte
Authors: Gu Xiaocong , Yang Xudong , Feng Ligang
Published: July 2020

Developing efficient powder catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in the acidic electrolyte is significant for hydrogen generation in the proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis technique. Herein, we demonstrated an efficient catalyst for HER in the acid media based on the graphene supported ruthenium telluride nanoparticles (RuTe2/Gr). The catalysts were easily fabricated by a facile microwave irradiation/thermal annealing approach, and orthorhombic RuTe2 crystals were found anchored over the graphene surface. The defective structure was demonstrated in the aberration‐corrected transmission electron microscopy images for RuTe2 crystals and graphene support. This catalyst required an overpotential of 72 mV to drive 10 mA cm−2 for HER when loading on the inert glass carbon electrode; Excellent catalytic stability in acidic media was also observed to offer 10 mA cm−2 for 10 hours. The Volmer‐Tafel mechanism was indicated on RuTe2/Gr catalyst by Tafel slope of 33 mV dec−1, similar to that of Pt/C catalysts. The high catalytic performance of RuTe2/Gr could be attributed to its high dispersion on the graphene surface, high electrical conductivity and low charge transfer resistance. This powder catalyst has potential application in the PEM water electrolysis technique because of its low cost and high stability.
Advances in Total Synthesis of Some 2,3,5‐Trisubstituted Tetrahydrofuran Natural Products
Authors: Fernandes Rodney A. , Pathare Ramdas S. , Gorve Dnyaneshwar A.
Published: July 2020

2,3,5‐Trisubstituted tetrahydrofuran moiety is ubiquitous in natural products. These have served as appealing candidates for total synthesis due to their varied bio‐ and pharmaceutical activities. This tutorial review delineates the ingenious efforts by many researchers in the total synthesis of selected natural products based on a common 2,3,5‐trisubstituted tetrahydrofuran core structure. Many of the syntheses display nuanced interplay between new methods and the ingenuity of planned strategies achieved through catalysis or cascade chemistry. In some cases, the chiron approach has come quite handy, wherein the structural features and the stereochemistry in select molecules could map well with naturally available starting materials. This compilation also aims to enhance the diversity space based on these natural products and further interest in sustainable total synthesis.
Luminescence of the near‐ultraviolet blue‐emitting Ba9Al2Si6O24:Ce3+ phosphor
Authors: Teng Yongfu
Published: July 2020

A near‐ultraviolet (NUV) blue‐emitting phosphor Ba9Al2Si6O24:Ce3+ (BAS:Ce3+) was synthesized using a high‐temperature solid‐state reaction. BAS:Ce3+ had an excitation band peak at about 328 nm and showed a blue emission band. The NUV‐blue emission band had a peak at about 386 nm with a band width of about 60 nm, attributed to the 5d–4f transition of Ce3+. Fluorescent decay showed an exponential model with a lifetime of 27.2 nsec. At 150°C, the luminescence intensity decreased to 68.7% compared with the intensity at room temperature.
The cultural consensus of sustainability‐driven innovation: Strategies for success
Authors: Van Holt Tracy , Statler Matt , Atz Ulrich , Whelan Tensie , van Loggerenberg Mara , Cebulla James
Published: July 2020

Although sustainability may have previously appeared to business leaders primarily as an additional cost, today there are many signs of a change where sustainability appears to business leaders as a source or driver of value instead. Prior research shows that solving sustainability challenges should lead to innovations, yet we do not see widespread changes across companies. One reason may be that sustainability professionals do not share the same knowledge about the drivers and benefits of innovations that emerge when people solve sustainability challenges. To study this, we ran a cultural consensus analysis with sustainability professionals to test whether those with more sustainability expertise—that is, those with longer work experience in sustainability or to those that worked in companies where sustainability was embedded into core business operations—had different perspectives than those with less expertise. We found an overwhelming agreement among professionals regardless of expertise. We then followed up and conducted interviews with expert sustainability professionals to understand more about the business practices that drive sustainability‐driven innovation in their organizations.
Does financial development stimulate environmental sustainability? Evidence from a panel study of 115 countries
Authors: Uddin Mirza Md Moyen
Published: July 2020

This paper investigates the moderation effect of financial development (FD) on the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC). Using comprehensive panel data of 115 countries spanning the 1990–2016 period and dividing the countries into different income groups, the researcher found systematic differences in the relationship between significant indicators of environmental degradation and economic growth. More specifically, the interaction effect of FD on the relationship between gross domestic product (GDP) growth and CO2 emissions are positive; nevertheless, the interaction effect of FD on the relationship between GDP squared and CO2 emissions become negative for all income groups and therefore supports the EKC. Moreover, the interaction effect of FD is negative on the relationship of GDP with both CH4 and PM2.5 emissions in the middle‐income groups, whereas the interaction effect of FD on the relationship between GDP squared and PM2.5 emissions are negative for the high‐income group. Our results suggest that FD can reduce environmental degradation without adversely impacting on growth.
TOX correlates with prognosis, immune infiltration, and T cells exhaustion in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Guo Longbin , Li Xuanzi , Liu Rongping , Chen Yulei , Ren Chen , Du Shasha
Published: July 2020

Background

Thymocyte selection‐associated high mobility group box (TOX) plays a crucial role on the development of innate immunity and tumor microenvironment. This study aims to explore the prognostic potential of TOX and comprehensively analyze the correlations between TOX, immune infiltration, and T cells function in diverse cancers particularly lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Methods

TIMER was used to analyze TOX expression in different cancers. Potential prognostic value of TOX was evaluated by the PrognoScan, Kaplan‐Meier Plotter, and GEPIA2. The relationships between TOX, immune infiltration, and related gene marker sets were analyzed by TIMER and GEPIA2. Single‐cell RNA‐seq for T cells in LUAD was analyzed to further investigate the correlations between TOX expression and different T cells populations.

Results

TOX downregulates in most of the cancer types and correlates with poor prognosis in LUAD. TOX shows significant impacts on survival of LUAD with early stage, ever‐smoking, or low‐TMB status. Increased TOX expression positively correlates with high immune infiltration levels in most of the immune cells and functional T cells including exhausted T cells. Moreover, multiple key genes of exhausted T cells comprising PD‐1, TIM‐3, TIGHT, and CXCL13 have remarkable interaction with TOX. Specifically, TOX is observed with high enrichment in exhausted CD4+ and CD8+ T cells populations in single‐cell RNA‐seq analysis for LUAD.

Conclusion

TOX is a prognosis‐related biomarker for multiple cancer types especially LUAD. Increased TOX expression significantly increase immune infiltration levels in most of the immune cells comprising CD8+ T cells, CD4+ T cells, mast cells, and functional T cells. Moreover, we verified that TOX highly correlates with exhausted T cells and is probable a critical regulator promoted T cells exhaustion in LUAD. Detection of TOX expression could help to predict prognosis and regulating TOX expression in exhausted T cells may offer a novel strategy in maximizing immunotherapy efficacy for LUAD.
Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young and Generalized Stage III Grade C Periodontitis: A Case Report
Authors: Chew Ren Jie Jacob , Chee Hoe Kit
Published: July 2020

Introduction

Maturity onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is a rare form of diabetes mellitus resulting from single nucleotide polymorphisms. There is a lack of evidence describing their periodontal condition and the management of these patients. The objective of this case report is to present the 6‐month outcomes following non‐surgical periodontal treatment of a patient diagnosed with MODY 5, the Renal Cyst and Diabetes Syndrome.

Case Presentation

This case report describes the periodontal presentation and non‐surgical management of a 21‐year‐old patient, diagnosed with hyperglycemia (HbA1c >14%) and stage 4 chronic kidney disease. She presented with generalized severe chronic periodontitis and multiple periodontal abscesses. She was treated with quadrant debridement with adjunctive systemic amoxicillin and metronidazole and 0.2% chlorhexidine mouth rinse. Significant improvement was observed after treatment, remaining stable 6‐month post‐treatment, with only two sites with probing depths ≥5 mm. This was consistent with a reduction of the periodontal inflamed surface area from 3165 to 500 mm2. HbA1c was also reduced to 8.7% 6 months after treatment.

Conclusions

MODY patients presenting with periodontitis can be successfully treated non‐surgically, concurrent with diabetic management.
Clinical Decision Making for Primary Peri‐Implantitis Prevention: Practical Applications
Authors: Geisinger Maria L. , Calvert Grosso Katherine , Kaur Maninder , Abou‐Arraj Ramzi V. , Basma Hussein , Ogdon Dorothy , Geurs Nicolaas C.
Published: July 2020

Focused Clinical Question

When planning dental implant therapy, what risk‐reduction strategies allow practitioners to select patients, sites, and restorative plans that decrease the incidence of peri‐implant disease?

With a marked increase in the number of patients receiving dental implants to treat partial or complete edentulism, it follows that the prevalence of peri‐implant mucositis and peri‐implantitis have increased. Risks associated with implant therapies may vary based upon underlying local, environmental, surgical, patient, prosthetic, and fixture‐related factors. Furthermore, an emphasis on preventative measures and maintenance should be undertaken to avoid development and progression of peri‐implant diseases. Thorough risk assessment, proper treatment planning, and early diagnosis and intervention are critical in the absence of definitive data of long‐term success of treatments for peri‐implant condition. Given the difficulty in intervention once peri‐implantitis is established, identification of risk factors and development of treatment plans to address those factors before dental implant therapy is critical to the long‐term health and success of dental implants.

Conclusions

A patient‐centered, evidence based approach to dental implant treatment planning to reduce the risk for peri‐implantitis should be undertaken. Systematic diagnosis of disease state(s) and evaluation of the etiologic and modifying risk factors for peri‐implant diseases can yield more optimal outcomes to reduce peri‐implantitis rates.
A Bimane‐Based Peptide Staple for Combined Helical Induction and Fluorescent Imaging
Authors: Horsfall Aimee J. , Dunning Kylie R. , Keeling Kelly L. , Scanlon Denis B. , Wegener Kate L. , Abell Andrew D.
Published: July 2020

The thiol‐selective fluorescent imaging agent, dibromobimane, has been repurposed to crosslink cysteine‐ and homocysteine‐containing peptides, with the resulting bimane linker acting as both a structural constraint and a fluorescent tag. Macrocyclisation was conducted on nine short peptides containing two cysteines and/or homocysteines, both on‐resin and in buffered aqueous solution, to give macrocycles ranging in size from 16 (i,i+2) to 31 (i,i+7) atoms. The structures were defined by CD, NMR structure calculations by using Xplor‐NIH, NMR secondary shift and JHαNH analyses to reveal helical structure in the i,i+4 (1, 2), and i,i+3 (5) constrained peptides. Cellular‐uptake studies were conducted with three of the macrocycles. Subsequent confocal imaging revealed punctate fluorescence within the cytosol indicative of peptides trapped in endocytic vesicles. These studies demonstrate that dibromobimane is an effective tool for defining secondary structure within short peptides, whilst simultaneously introducing a fluorescent tag suitable for common cell‐based experiments.
Modified Galacto‐ or Fuco‐Clusters Exploiting the Siderophore Pathway to Inhibit the LecA‐ or LecB‐Associated Virulence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Madaoui Mimouna , Vidal Olivier , Meyer Albert , Noël Mathieu , Lacroix Jean‐Marie , Vasseur Jean‐Jacques , Marra Alberto , Morvan François
Published: July 2020

Galacto‐ and fuco‐clusters conjugated with one to three catechol or hydroxamate motifs were synthesised to target LecA and LecB lectins of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA) localised in the outer membrane and inside the bacterium. The resulting glycocluster–pseudosiderophore conjugates were evaluated as Trojan horses to cross the outer membrane of PA by iron transport. The data suggest that glycoclusters with catechol moieties are able to hijack the iron transport, whereas those with hydroxamates showed strong nonspecific interactions. Mono‐ and tricatechol galactoclusters (G1C and G3C) were evaluated as inhibitors of infection by PA in comparison with the free galactocluster (G0). All of them exhibited an inhibitory effect between 46 to 75 % at 100 μM, with a higher potency than G0. This result shows that LecA localised in the outer membrane of PA is involved in the infection mechanism.
Spontaneous improvement of sarcoidosis mimicking a vertebral metastatic lesion: It's indeed possible!
Authors: Rahmouni Safa , Maatallah Kaouther , Ferjani Hanene , Riahi Hend , Manamani Lamia , Kaffel Dhia , Hamdi Wafa
Published: July 2020

The diagnosis of vertebral sarcoidosis can be challenging. Besides, there is no consensus for the treatment of these lesions. Exceptionally, lesions may show spontaneous regression. To our knowledge, there are only two case reports of spontaneous resolution of vertebral sarcoidosis documented by follow‐up MRI. Herein, we present a third case.
Methane Combustion Over Ni/CexZr1–xO2 Catalysts: Impact of Ceria/Zirconia Ratio
Authors: Chen Junjie , Carlson Benjamin D. , Toops Todd J. , Li Zhenglong , Lance Michael J. , Karakalos Stavros G. , Choi Jae‐Soon , Kyriakidou Eleni A.
Published: July 2020

A series of CexZr1–xO2 (x=1, 0.83, 0.17, 0) supports and 2 wt.% Ni/CexZr1–xO2 catalysts were synthesized and evaluated for CH4 oxidation. The CexZr1–xO2 supports showed moderate activity (T50=519‐638 °C) with CO by‐product formation. Nickel incorporation onto CexZr1–xO2 lowered the T50 to 438–477 °C and eliminated the formation of CO. The results indicated that moderate Zr doping improved the support oxygen storage capacity (OSC) and reducibility of the catalyst at low temperatures (H2‐TPR) leading to an enhanced CH4 combustion turnover frequency: Ni/ZrO2<Ni/Ce0.17Zr0.83O2<Ni/CeO2<Ni/Ce0.83Zr0.17O2. The apparent activation energies of Ni/CexZr1–xO2 catalysts (87‐92 kJ/mol) were much lower than the ones of CexZr1–xO2 supports and Ni/quartz sand (111‐120 kJ/mol) indicating that CH4 oxidation is facilitated when Ni is deposited on CexZr1–xO2. Moreover, stability tests with H2O and CO2 showed that Zr doping can improve the catalyst stability, while H2O had a stronger reversible inhibition effect than CO2 for CH4 combustion.
Phase‐Engineering of 1T/2H Molybdenum Disulfide by Using Ionic Liquid for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Zhang Xin , Li He , Yang Hui , Xie Fei , Yuan Zhihao , Zajickova Lenka , Li Wenjiang
Published: July 2020

Two‐dimensional (2D) molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) has been regarded as an attractive non‐precious‐metal electrocatalyst for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Engineering the crystal phase of MoS2 to activate the basal planes/edges and simultaneously improve the electronic conductivity is currently an effective strategy for enhancing its HER activity. Herein, we report a facile and efficient hydrothermal route to prepare 1T/2H‐MoS2 catalysts using ionic liquid (N‐butyl pyridinium bromide, [BPy]Br) as a structure‐directing agent, where the large steric hindrance of [BPy]Br and the mutual π‐stacking interaction induce the phase transition of MoS2 from 2H to the 1T phase. By adding a suitable amount of [BPy]Br in the reaction system, the portion of the 1T phase in 1T/2H‐MoS2 was increased, which can expose more active sites on its basal planes/edges as well as facilitate charge transfer for the HER. Consequently, 1T/2H‐MoS2 with the 1T portion of 91.9 % exhibits a significantly enhanced HER activity compared to that of the MoS2 synthesized without the aid of [BPy]Br, in terms of a lower Tafel slope of 59 mV dec−1. This synthesis strategy provides valuable guidance for designing the phase structure of MoS2‐based electrocatalysts to achieve high HER efficiency.
Chalcogen‐Expanded Unsaturated Silicon Clusters: Thia‐, Selena‐, and Tellurasiliconoids
Authors: Poitiers Nadine E. , Huch Volker , Zimmer Michael , Scheschkewitz David
Published: July 2020

Reactions of silylenes with heavier chalcogens (E) typically result in Si=E double bonds or their π‐addition products. In contrast, the oxidation of a silylene‐functionalized unsaturated silicon cluster (siliconoid) with Group 16 elements selectively yields cluster expanded siliconoids Si7E (E=S, Se, Te) fully preserving the unsaturated nature of the cluster scaffold as evident from the NMR signatures of the products. Mechanistic considerations by DFT calculations suggest the intermediacy of a Si6 siliconoid with exohedral Si=E functionality. The reaction thus may serve as model system for the oxidation of surface‐bonded silylenes at Si(100) by chalcogens and their diffusion into the silicon bulk.
High Energy Density Heteroatom (O, N and S) Enriched Activated Carbon for Rational Design of Symmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Manikandan Ramu , Raj C. Justin , Moulton Simon E. , Todorov Todor Stoilo , Yu Kook Hyun , Kim Byung Chul
Published: July 2020

Carbon‐based symmetric supercapacitors (SCs) are known for their high power density and long cyclability, making them an ideal candidate for power sources in new‐generation electronic devices. To boost their electrochemical performances, deriving activated carbon doped with heteroatoms such as N, O, and S are highly desirable for increasing the specific capacitance. In this regard, activated carbon (AC) self‐doped with heteroatoms is directly derived from bio‐waste (lima‐bean shell) using different KOH activation processes. The heteroatom‐enriched AC synthesized using a pretreated carbon‐to‐KOH ratio of 1:2 (ONS@AC‐2) shows excellent surface morphology with a large surface area of 1508 m2 g−1. As an SC electrode material, the presence of heteroatoms (N and S) reduces the interfacial charge‐transfer resistance and increases the ion‐accessible surface area, which inherently provides additional pseudocapacitance. The ONS@AC‐2 electrode attains a maximum specific capacitance (Csp) of 342 F g−1 at a specific current of 1 Ag−1 in 1 m NaClO4 electrolyte at the wide potential window of 1.8 V. Moreover, as symmetric SCs the ONS@AC‐2 electrode delivers a maximum specific capacitance (Csc) of 191 F g−1 with a maximum specific energy of 21.48 Wh kg−1 and high specific power of 14 000 W kg−1 and excellent retention of its initial capacitance (98 %) even after 10000 charge/discharge cycles. In addition, a flexible supercapacitor fabricated utilizing ONS@AC‐2 electrodes and a LiCl/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐based polymer electrolyte shows a maximum Csc of 119 F g−1 with considerable specific energy and power.
Mechanistic Insights into the Interactions of Ras Subfamily GTPases with the SPN Domain of Autism‐associated SHANK3†
Authors: Xu Xiaolong , Liu Jianping , Wang Yingli , Wang Yaru , Gong Xinyu , Pan Lifeng
Published: July 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

The active Ras subfamily GTPases, Rap1 and Ras, can be specifically recognized by the SPN domain of SHANK3, mutations of which are associated with many neuropsychiatric diseases such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the mechanistic bases underlying the interactions of SHANK3 SPN and those Ras subfamily proteins are still elusive. Here, we reported the crystal structures of SHANK3 SPN in complex with the GTP‐bound Rap1b and the Ras‐mimetic Rap1b E30D/K31E double mutant. In addition to uncovering the detailed molecular mechanism governing the specific interactions of SHANK3 SPN with those Ras subfamily proteins, the determined structures also reveal a general binding mode between SHANK3 SPN and its associated Ras subfamily proteins. Finally, our study also provides mechanistic insights into two ASD‐causing R12C and L68P mutations found in the SPN domain of SHANK3, and expands our understanding of the etiology of neuropsychiatric diseases caused by defective SHANK3.
Improving Both Electron and Hole Mobilities of an Ambipolar Polymer by Integrating Sodium Sulfonate‐Tethered Alkyl Side Chains†
Authors: Liu Li‐Na , Li Yun‐Peng , Khalil Maria , Xu Zi‐Wen , Xie Guanghui , Zhang Xingmin , Li Jingjing , Li Wei‐Shi
Published: July 2020

Summary of main observation and conclusion

High performance ambipolar organic semiconductors are highly desirable for organic logic circuits. Herein, we demonstrate the integration of sodium sulfonate (SS)‐tethered sidechains into a diketopyrrolopyrrole‐based ambipolar polymer (PDPP3T) can simultaneously improve its hole and electron transport performances either parallel or perpendicular to polymer film. Three SS‐functionalized polymers (PDPP3T‐xSS, x = 0.025, 0.05 and 0.10) were synthesized and studied. It was found that SS functionalization can reinforce interchain π‐π interactions, slightly lower frontier orbital energy levels, produce more rod‐like structures in film, and change chain‐packing from edge‐on to face‐on fashion, but has little influence on thermal properties. More interestingly, organic field‐effect transistors reported hole mobility of 0.27 ± 0.066 cm2·V–1·s–1 and electron mobility of 0.038 ± 0.016 cm2·V–1·s–1 for PDPP3T, while increased 2.4 and 5 folds to 0.64 ± 0.087 and 0.19 ± 0.051 cm2·V–1·s–1 for PDPP3T‐0.025SS, respectively. Moreover, PDPP3T‐xSS devices displayed reduced threshold voltages for both hole and electron transports. Meanwhile, space charge‐limited current method found SS functionalization achieved an order of magnitude increase in electron mobility and slight enhancement in hole mobility transporting perpendicular to polymer film. In‐depth investigations suggest such enhancements may originate from the joint actions of chain‐stacking modulation and ionic doping effect.
Role of wearable rhythm recordings in clinical decision making—The wEHRAbles project
Authors: Manninger Martin , Kosiuk Jedrzej , Zweiker David , Njeim Mario , Antolic Bor , Kircanski Bratislav , Larsen Jacob M. , Svennberg Emma , Vanduynhoven Philippe , Duncker David
Published: July 2020

Background

Multiple wearable devices for rhythm analysis have been developed using either photoplethysmography (PPG) or handheld ECG.

Hypothesis

The aim of this survey was to assess impact of these technologies on physicians' clinical decision‐making regarding initiation of diagnostic steps, drug therapy, and invasive strategies.

Methods

The online survey included 10 questions on types of devices, advantages, and disadvantages of wearable devices as well as case scenarios for patients with supraventricular arrhythmias and atrial fibrillation (AF).

Results

A total of 417 physicians (median age 37 [IQR 32‐43] years) from 42 countries world‐wide completed the survey.

When presented a tracing of a regular tachycardia by a symptomatic patient, most participants would trigger further diagnostic steps (90% for single‐lead ECG vs 83% for PPG, P < .001), while a single‐lead ECG would be sufficient to perform an invasive EP study in approximately half of participants (51% vs 22% for PPG, P < .001).

When presented with a single‐lead ECG tracing suggesting AF, most participants (90%) would trigger further diagnostic steps. A symptomatic AF patient would trigger anticoagulation treatment to a higher extent as an asymptomatic patient (59% vs 21%, P < .001). PPG tracings would only rarely lead to therapeutic steps regardless of symptoms.

Most participants would like scientific society recommendations on the use of wearable devices (62%).

Conclusions

Tracings from wearable rhythm devices suggestive of arrhythmias are most likely to trigger further diagnostic steps, and in the case of PPG recordings rarely therapeutic interventions. A majority of participants expect these devices to facilitate diagnostics and arrhythmia screening but fear data overload and expect scientific society recommendations on the use of wearables.
Shuttling of Peptide‐Drug Conjugates by G Protein‐Coupled Receptors Is Significantly Improved by Pulsed Application
Authors: Ziffert Isabelle , Kaiser Anette , Hoppenz Paul , Mörl Karin , Beck‐Sickinger Annette G.
Published: July 2020

G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) can be used to shuttle peptide‐drug conjugates into cells. But, for efficient therapy, a high concentration of cargo needs to be delivered. To explore this, we studied the pharmacologically interesting neuropeptide Y1 receptor (Y1R) in one recombinant and three oncogenic cell systems that endogenously express the receptor. We demonstrate that recycled receptors behave identically to newly synthesized receptors with respect to ligand binding and internalization pathways. Depending on the cell system, biosynthesis, recycling efficiency, and peptide uptake differ partially, but shuttling was efficient in all systems. However, by comparing continuous application of the ligand for four hours to four cycles of internalization and recycling in between, a significantly higher amount of peptide uptake was achieved in the pulsed application (150–250 % to 300–400 %). Accordingly, in this well‐suited drug shuttle system pulsed application is superior under all investigated conditions and should be considered for innovative, targeted drug delivery in general.