bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomic analyses suggest that mucopolysaccharidosis patients may be less susceptible to COVID‐19
Authors: Pierzynowska Karolina , Gaffke Lidia , Węgrzyn Grzegorz
Published: August 2020

We used transcriptomic (RNA‐seq) analyses to determine whether patients suffering from all types and subtypes of mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS), a severe inherited metabolic disease, may be more susceptible to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). The expression levels of genes encoding proteins potentially involved in SARS‐CoV‐2 development were estimated in MPS cell lines. Four genes (GTF2F2, RAB18, TMEM97, PDE4DIP) coding for proteins potentially facilitating virus development were down‐regulated, while two genes (FBN1, MFGE8), the products of which potentially interfere with virus propagation, were up‐regulated in most MPS types. Although narrowing of respiratory tract and occurrence of thick mucus, characteristic of MPS, are risk factors for COVID‐19, transcriptomic analyses suggest that MPS cells might be less, rather than more, susceptible to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.
Epigenetic–smoking interaction reveals histologically heterogeneous effects of TRIM27 DNA methylation on overall survival among early‐stage NSCLC patients
Authors: Ji Xinyu , Lin Lijuan , Shen Sipeng , Dong Xuesi , Chen Chao , Li Yi , Zhu Ying , Huang Hui , Chen Jiajin , Chen Xin , Wei Liangmin , He Jieyu , Duan Weiwei , Su Li , Jiang Yue , Fan Juanjuan , Guan Jinxing , You Dongfang , Shafer Andrea , Bjaanæs Maria Moksnes , Karlsson Anna , Planck Maria , Staaf Johan , Helland Åslaug , Esteller Manel , Wei Yongyue , Zhang Ruyang , Chen Feng , Christiani David C.
Published: August 2020

Tripartite motif containing 27 (TRIM27) is highly expressed in lung cancer, including non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Here, we profiled DNA methylation of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) tumours from 613 early‐stage NSCLC patients and evaluated associations between CpG methylation of TRIM27 and overall survival. Significant CpG probes were confirmed in 617 samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas. The methylation of the CpG probe cg05293407TRIM27 was significantly associated with overall survival in patients with LUSC (HR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.30–2.09, P = 4.52 × 10−5), but not in patients with LUAD (HR = 1.08, 95% CI: 0.87–1.33, P = 0.493). As incidence of LUSC is associated with higher smoking intensity compared to LUAD, we investigated whether smoking intensity impacted on the prognostic effect of cg05293407TRIM27 methylation in NSCLC. LUSC patients had a higher average pack‐year of smoking (37.49LUAD vs 54.79LUSC, P = 1.03 × 10−19) and included a higher proportion of current smokers than LUAD patients (28.24%LUAD vs 34.09%LUSC, P = 0.037). cg05293407TRIM27 was significantly associated with overall survival only in NSCLC patients with medium–high pack‐year of smoking (HR = 1.58, 95% CI: 1.26–1.96, P = 5.25 × 10−5). We conclude that cg05293407TRIM27 methylation is a potential predictor of LUSC prognosis, and smoking intensity may impact on its prognostic value across the various types of NSCLC.
Allele‐specific proximal promoter hypomethylation of the telomerase reverse transcriptase gene (TERT) associates with TERT expression in multiple cancers
Authors: Rowland Teisha J. , Bonham Andrew J. , Cech Thomas R.
Published: August 2020

Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) is pathologically expressed in the vast majority of human cancers, but the epigenetic regulation of its expression is only beginning to be understood. In particular, the active TERT gene in cancer cells has been characterized as having a hypermethylated CpG island, opposite to the general association of DNA methylation with gene repression. Here, we analyzed TERT promoter CpG methylation in 833 human cancer cell lines representing 23 different tissue types and found hypermethylation of the upstream portion of the CpG island and more conserved hypomethylation of a region including the proximal TERT promoter and exon 1. In cell lines with monoallelic expression of TERT, we found allelic methylation of the proximal TERT promoter. This included cell lines with the −124 or −146 activating promoter mutation as well as wild‐type TERT cancer lines. In these cell line types, decreased proximal promoter methylation is associated with the active allele. Compared to cells with monoallelic expression of TERT, lines with biallelic expression of TERT had even lower methylation in the proximal TERT promoter. Thus, in cell lines from cancers of many different tissues, the TERT proximal promoter has canonical DNA methylation, with low methylation correlating with increased TERT expression.
Expression of genes involved in drug metabolism differs between perfusable 3D liver tissue and conventional 2D‐cultured hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Mori Nobuhito , Kida Yasuyuki S.
Published: August 2020

Tubular 3D liver tissue with enhanced capillary‐like structures branching from a large main channel is potentially useful for drug discovery because the perfusable main channel and capillary‐like structures enable mass transfer into and out from the tissue. Tubular liver tissue is comprised of the hepatocellular carcinoma cell line HepG2, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), using a perfusion device functioning as the interface for an external pump. This study aimed to compare the expression of genes involved in drug metabolism between 2D‐cultured hepatocellular carcinoma cells and 3D‐cultured tubular liver tissue. Gene expression profiles of 2D‐cultured cells and tubular liver tissue were compared using RNA sequencing. Multidimensional scaling analysis revealed that culture dimensionality had a more prominent effect on gene expression profiles than perfusion conditions. More specifically, genes involved in drug metabolism such as CYP2D6, CYP2E1, NNMT, and SLC28A1 were slightly upregulated in the 3D cultures, while certain genes such as ALDH1B1, ALDH1A2, and SULT1E1 were downregulated. These results indicate that gene expression profiles are largely influenced by culture dimensionality and are potentially useful to researchers intending to switch from 2D culture to 3D culture of hepatocellular carcinoma or other tissue types.
Renal asymmetric dimethylarginine inhibits fibrosis
Authors: Wu Ming , Yuan Meijie , Wang Yanzhe , Tan Bo , Huang Di , Wang Chen , Zou Yun , Ye Chaoyang
Published: August 2020

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a worldwide public health problem that is caused by repeated injuries to the glomerulus or renal tubules. Renal fibrosis commonly accompanies CKD, and it is histologically characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, such as fibronectin and collagen I, in interstitial areas. Indirect in vivo experimental data suggest that renal asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) exerts antifibrotic activity in CKD. In this study, we aimed to demonstrate that renal ADMA has a direct effect on fibrosis in vivo. Normal saline, ADMA, nonsense control siRNA, Ddah1 siRNA or Ddah2 siRNA was administered into the kidney through the left ureter in a mouse model of unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO). UUO kidneys were harvested at day 1 or 7. Western blotting was performed to assess the expression of ADMA, DDAH1 and DDAH2 and the expression of fibrotic markers, such as fibronectin, collagen I, α‐smooth muscle actin, phosphorylation of Smad3 and connective tissue growth factor. Masson’s trichrome staining was used to further evaluate renal fibrosis. We observed that intrarenal administration of ADMA increased the renal accumulation of ADMA and attenuated renal fibrosis at days 1 and 7. Knockdown of Ddah1 or Ddah2 increased the amount of ADMA in UUO kidneys and inhibited the expression of fibrotic proteins at days 1 and 7, which was further confirmed by Masson’s staining. Thus, our in vivo data suggest that renal ADMA exerts direct antifibrotic effects in a mouse model of UUO.
Inhibition of the proteasome and proteaphagy enhances apoptosis in FLT3‐ITD‐driven acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Lopez‐Reyes Rosa G. , Quinet Grégoire , Gonzalez‐Santamarta Maria , Larrue Clément , Sarry Jean‐Emmanuel , Rodriguez Manuel S.
Published: August 2020

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a clonal disorder that affects hematopoietic stem cells or myeloid progenitors. One of the most common mutations that results in AML occurs in the gene encoding fms‐like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3). Previous studies have demonstrated that AML cells expressing FLT3‐internal tandem duplication (ITD) are more sensitive to the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib (Bz) than FLT3 wild‐type cells, with this cytotoxicity being mediated by autophagy (Atg). Here, we show that proteasome inhibition with Bz results in modest but consistent proteaphagy in MOLM‐14 leukemic cells expressing the FLT3‐ITD mutation, but not in OCI‐AML3 leukemic cells with wild‐type FLT3. Chemical inhibition of Atg with bafilomycin A simultaneously blocked proteaphagy and resulted in the accumulation of the p62 Atg receptor in Bz‐treated MOLM‐14 cells. The use of ubiquitin traps revealed that ubiquitin plays an important role in proteasome‐Atg cross‐talk. The p62 inhibitor verteporfin blocked proteaphagy and, importantly, resulted in accumulation of high molecular weight forms of p62 and FLT3‐ITD in Bz‐treated MOLM‐14 cells. Both Atg inhibitors enhanced Bz‐induced apoptosis in FLT3‐ITD‐driven leukemic cells, highlighting the therapeutic potential of these treatments.
A shift from “habitat pour le plus grand nombre” to “habitat évolutif” in post‐war francophonie: A study on the history of international and regional exchange activity of ATBAT(Atelier des Bâtisseurs), part 2
Authors: Matsubara Kosuke
Published: August 2020

As a continuation of my previous paper “Part 1” which is titled “Formation and change of an international exchange organization,” the scope of this paper encompasses the period of ATBAT (Atelier des Bâtisseurs)'s work in Morocco, via the manifestation at CIAM 9, up to the point of their separation. In this paper I also conduct certain planning studies for the purpose of examining how the “habitat pour le plus grand nombre (hereafter ‘housing for the greatest number’)” movement led to the “Évolutif (evolutionary)” concept; finally to the planning method known as “Habitat Évolutif (Evolutionary Housing)” is examined. The way in which this last method was concretized through the exchange of ideas proposed by members particularly those proposed by Banshoya are elaborately examined. The most important roles played by ATBAT was (1) to expand the idea of new housing style suggested by Le Corbusier based on their technical research, and (2) to examine it with general people including slum residents in the various cities in Francophonie, and (3) to find the planning methods of Habitat Evolutif. The beginning of the idea of Habitat Evolutif can be already seen in the theory of Le Corbusier, but it was ATBAT’s original contribution to give a theoretical framework in it based on their international and regional exchange activities.
Characterization of Myostain (MSTN) and Myogenic Differentiation Antigen (MyoD) and the Effect of Dexamethasone on Their Expression in Large-Scale Loach Paramisgurnus dabryanus
Authors: Du Zongjun , Wang Tianzhu , Ming Wei , Luo Wei , Xu Huaming , Lin Rongnan , Wen Anxiang
Published: August 2020

Myostatin (MSTN) and myogenic differentiation antigen (MyoD) play an essential role in specification and differentiation of skeletal muscle. However, the role of stress in the regulation of MyoD and MSTN has not been fully revealed and more evidence should be provided. Here, we reported the cloning and expressional analyses of MSTN and MyoD in Large-scale Loach Paramisgurnus dabryanus (hereafter PdMSTN and PdMyoD). Injecting individuals with 0, 60, 600, and 1,200 μg/kg dexamethasone (DXM) for five consecutive days resulted in a dose-dependent change of PdMSTN and PdMyoD expression. The expression of PdMSTN was upregulated with increasing DXM concentrations, while PdMyoD expression was downregulated. The changes in the expression of these genes at different time points for 10 consecutive days were studied after individuals were treated with 600 μg/kg DXM. Compared with the control group, PdMSTN expression decreased and PdMyoD expression increased before 12 h, and both PdMSTN and PdMyoD expression levels increased at 24 h, which was significantly higher than those in control group. At a prolonged treatment of 5–10 d, expression levels of PdMSTN and PdMyoD had significantly reduced. The results indicate that both PdMyoD and PdMSTN are involved in DXM-induced stress in Large-scale Loach.
Technical Note: Development of 3D‐printed breast phantoms for end‐to‐end testing of whole breast volumetric arc radiotherapy
Authors: Delombaerde Laurence , Petillion Saskia , Weltens Caroline , De Roover Robin , Reynders Truus , Depuydt Tom
Published: August 2020

End‐to‐end testing of a new breast radiotherapy technique preferably requires realistic phantom geometries, which is challenging to achieve using currently commercially available solutions. We have developed a series of three‐dimensional (3D)‐printed breast phantoms, with ionization chamber and radiochromic film inserts, which can be attached to a commercial anthropomorphic thorax phantom. A contoured left breast from a patient’s planning CT was mapped onto a CT of the CIRS E2E thorax phantom (CIRS Inc.) and cropped to fit the surface. Four versions of the breast were 3D printed, containing a cavity for an ionization chamber and slits for radiochromic film insertion in the three cardinal planes, respectively. The phantoms were fully compatible with surface scanning technology used for setup. The phantoms were validated using a whole‐breast volumetric modulated arc therapy protocol with a simultaneous integrated boost to the tumor bed (VMAT‐SIB). Six patient plans and one original plan on the breast phantom were verified with planar portal imaging, point dose, and film measurements in the MultiCube phantom and planar γ‐analysis using ArcCHECK diode array. Six patient plans were recalculated on the breast phantom (hybrid plans) and delivered with point dose and film measurements with 3% (local)/2 mm γ‐analysis. One complete end‐to‐end test on the breast phantom was performed. All plan quality verifications had point dose differences below 2.4% from the calculated dose and γ‐agreement scores (γAS) > 87.3% for film measurements in the MultiCube, portal dosimetry, and ArcCHECK. Point dose differences in the 3D‐printed phantoms were below 2.6% (median −1.4%, range −2.6%; 0.3%). Median γAS was 96.4% (range 80.1%–99.7%) for all film inserts. The proposed 3D‐printed attachable breast dosimetry phantoms have been shown to be a valuable tool for end‐to‐end testing of a new radiotherapy protocol. The workflow described in this report can aid users to create their own phantom‐specific breast 3D‐printed phantoms.
Faster RCNN‐based detection of cervical spinal cord injury and disc degeneration
Authors: Ma Shaolong , Huang Yang , Che Xiangjiu , Gu Rui
Published: August 2020

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can indirectly reflect microscopic changes in lesions on the spinal cord; however, the application of deep learning to MRI to classify and detect lesions for cervical spinal cord diseases has not been sufficiently explored. In this study, we implemented a deep neural network for MRI to detect lesions caused by cervical diseases. We retrospectively reviewed the MRI of 1,500 patients irrespective of whether they had cervical diseases. The patients were treated in our hospital from January 2013 to December 2018. We randomly divided the MRI data into three groups of datasets: disc group (800 datasets), injured group (200 datasets), and normal group (500 datasets). We designed the relevant parameters and used a faster‐region convolutional neural network (Faster R‐CNN) combined with a backbone convolutional feature extractor using the ResNet‐50 and VGG‐16 networks, to detect lesions during MRI. Experimental results showed that the prediction accuracy and speed of Faster R‐CNN with ResNet‐50 and VGG‐16 in detecting and recognizing lesions from a cervical spinal cord MRI were satisfactory. The mean average precisions (mAPs) for Faster R‐CNN with ResNet‐50 and VGG‐16 were 88.6 and 72.3%, respectively, and the testing times was 0.22 and 0.24 s/image, respectively. Faster R‐CNN can identify and detect lesions from cervical MRIs. To some extent, it may aid radiologists and spine surgeons in their diagnoses. The results of our study can provide motivation for future research to combine medical imaging and deep learning.
A novel hypomorphic splice variant in EIF2B5 gene is associated with mild ovarioleukodystrophy
Authors: Rodríguez‐Palmero Agustí , Schlüter Agatha , Verdura Edgard , Ruiz Montserrat , Martínez Juan José , Gourlaouen Isabelle , Ka Chandran , Lobato Ricardo , Casasnovas Carlos , Le Gac Gérald , Fourcade Stéphane , Pujol Aurora
Published: August 2020

Objective

To identify the genetic cause in an adult ovarioleukodystrophy patient resistant to diagnosis.

Methods

We applied whole‐exome sequencing (WES) to a vanishing white matter disease patient associated with premature ovarian failure at 26 years of age. We functionally tested an intronic variant by RT‐PCR on patient’s peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and by minigene splicing assay.

Results

WES analysis identified two novel variants in the EIF2B5 gene: c.725A > G (p.Tyr242Cys) and an intronic noncanonical mutation (c.1156 + 13G>A). This intronic mutation resulted into generation of various isoforms both in patient’s PBMC and in the minigene splicing assay, showing that ~20% residual wild‐type isoform is still expressed by the intronic‐mutated allele alone, concordant with an hypomorphic effect of this variant.

Conclusion

We report two novel variants in EIF2B5, one of them a noncanonical intronic splice variant, located at a +13 intronic position. This position is mutated only in 0.05% of ClinVar intronic mutations described so far. Furthermore, we illustrate how minigene splicing assay may be advantageous when validating splice‐altering variants, in this case highlighting the coexistence of wild‐type and mutated forms, probably explaining this patient’s milder, late‐onset phenotype.
AATOD: PDMP input will be state by state
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2020

On Friday, Aug. 14, the final rule for 42 CFR Part 2 took effect (see “42 CFR Part 2 final rule: OTP input into PDMP, more enforcement and easier,” ADAW, July 20, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.32778). One provision would allow opioid treatment programs (OTPs) to put patient information into the state prescription drug monitoring program (PDMP), something that was banned in 2011 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), which promulgates the confidentiality regulation and issued the final rule. The final rule would put methadone information into the PDMP for the first time when coming from OTPs (methadone dispensed for pain has always gone into the PDMP). It would mean doctors could look up information on any patient and find out if he or she is taking methadone. Those in favor of the provision, including the American Society of Addiction Medicine and even some OTPs, think that it's important for physicians to know what medications a patient is on, and apparently don't trust patients to disclose this information to treating providers. Those opposed note that PDMP data is utilized by many, including law enforcement.
NASADAD to NIDA: Connect research to practice
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2020

When the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) sought input on its five‐year plan, the people responsible for publicly funded prevention, treatment and recovery — state directors — called for returning to the days of communication between federal agencies like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and between NIDA researchers and the service delivery system. In an Aug. 7 letter to NIDA's strategic planning team, Robert I.L. Morrison, executive director of the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors (NASADAD), noted that each state alcohol and drug agency has a critical role to play in NIDA initiatives. This role includes.
Study on Fabrication of Ni8W/Ni12W/Ni8W Composite Substrate for Coated Conductors
Authors: Wu Xinyu , Suo Hongli , Meng Yichen , Ji Yaotang , Liu Min , Ma Lin , Wang Lei , Zhang Zili
Published: August 2020

Three types of Ni8W/Ni12W/Ni8W composite substrates with different layer thickness ratios are thoroughly investigated. A composite substrate with a 1:2:1 thickness ratio is found to be more appropriate for application because of its sharper cube texture, better mechanical strength, and lower magnetization. To overcome cracking and fracture during cold rolling, hot rolling is sometimes conducted before cold rolling. A second step in the annealing process is researched comprehensively to fabricate a 121‐composite substrate with a sharper cube texture. A nearly non‐ferromagnetic 121‐Ni8W/Ni12W/Ni8W composite substrate with a sharp cube texture and strong mechanical strength is successfully fabricated.
An Electroactive Oligo‐EDOT Platform for Neural Tissue Engineering
Authors: Ritzau‐Reid Kaja I. , Spicer Christopher D. , Gelmi Amy , Grigsby Christopher L. , Ponder James F. , Bemmer Victoria , Creamer Adam , Vilar Ramon , Serio Andrea , Stevens Molly M.
Published: August 2020

The unique electrochemical properties of the conductive polymer poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) make it an attractive material for use in neural tissue engineering applications. However, inadequate mechanical properties, and difficulties in processing and lack of biodegradability have hindered progress in this field. Here, the functionality of PEDOT:PSS for neural tissue engineering is improved by incorporating 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) oligomers, synthesized using a novel end‐capping strategy, into block co‐polymers. By exploiting end‐functionalized oligoEDOT constructs as macroinitiators for the polymerization of poly(caprolactone), a block co‐polymer is produced that is electroactive, processable, and bio‐compatible. By combining these properties, electroactive fibrous mats are produced for neuronal culture via solution electrospinning and melt electrospinning writing. Importantly, it is also shown that neurite length and branching of neural stem cells can be enhanced on the materials under electrical stimulation, demonstrating the promise of these scaffolds for neural tissue engineering.
Self‐Powered, Electrochemical Carbon Nanotube Pressure Sensors for Wave Monitoring
Authors: Zhang Mengmeng , Fang Shaoli , Nie Jun , Fei Peng , Aliev Ali E. , Baughman Ray H. , Xu Ming
Published: August 2020

Underwater pressure sensors with high sensitivity over a broad pressure range are urgently required for the collection of valuable data on pressure changes associated with various wave motions. Here, a class of carbon‐nanotube‐based pressure sensors, which can be directly used in oceans without packaging, is reported. They use salt water as an electrolyte for electrochemically converting mechanical hydraulic energy into electrical energy and generating electrical signals in response to pressure changes in seawater. They can sense wave amplitudes from 1 mm (i.e., 10 Pa) to 30 m, which covers the range of almost all wave motions, and provide high stability during cycling in seawater. Also, they are self‐powered and provide harvested gravimetric energy that is six orders of magnitude higher than that for commercial piezoelectric sensors for frequencies below 2 Hz (the range within most wave motion occurs), which has not been achieved before. These self‐powered sensors operate from 4 to 60 °C and in direct contact with salt water having a wide range of salinities (from 0.1 to 5 mol L−1). Importantly, the unique electrochemical mechanism provides a new pressure sensing strategy to address the challenges in realizing high precision, low‐frequency pressure measurements, and a broad detection range.
Wood Derived Cellulose Scaffolds—Processing and Mechanics
Authors: Keplinger Tobias , Wittel Falk K. , Rüggeberg Markus , Burgert Ingo
Published: August 2020

Wood‐derived cellulose materials obtained by structure‐retaining delignification are attracting increasing attention due to their excellent mechanical properties and great potential to serve as renewable and CO2 storing cellulose scaffolds for advanced hybrid materials with embedded functionality. Various delignification protocols and a multitude of further processing steps including polymer impregnation and densification are applied resulting in a large range of properties. However, treatment optimization requires a more comprehensive characterization of the developed materials in terms of structure, chemical composition, and mechanical properties for faster progress in the field. Herein, the current protocols for structure‐retaining delignification are reviewed and the emphasis is placed on the mechanical characterization at different hierarchical levels of the cellulose scaffolds by experiments and modeling to reveal the underlying structure–property relationships.
Nanocellulose in Emulsions and Heterogeneous Water‐Based Polymer Systems: A Review
Authors: Kedzior Stephanie A. , Gabriel Vida A. , Dubé Marc A. , Cranston Emily D.
Published: August 2020

Nanocelluloses (i.e., bacterial nanocellulose, cellulose nanocrystals, and cellulose nanofibrils) are cellulose‐based materials with at least one dimension in the nanoscale. These materials have unique and useful properties and have been shown to assemble at oil–water interfaces and impart new functionality to emulsion and latex systems. Herein, the use of nanocellulose in both emulsions and heterogeneous water‐based polymers is reviewed, including dispersion, suspension, and emulsion polymerization. Comprehensive tables describe past work employing nanocellulose as stabilizers or additives and the properties that can be tailored through the use of nanocellulose are highlighted. Even at low loadings, nanocellulose offers an unprecedented level of control as a property modifier for a range of emulsion and polymer applications, influencing, for example, emulsion type, stability, and stimuli‐responsive behavior. Nanocellulose can tune polymer particle properties such as size, surface charge, and morphology, or be used to produce capsules and polymer nanocomposites with enhanced mechanical, thermal, and adhesive properties. The role of nanocellulose is discussed, and a perspective for future direction is presented.
Self‐Powered Wireless Monitoring of Obstacle Position and State in Gas Pipe via Flow‐Driven Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Zhao Xue , Zhang Ding , Xu Suwen , Qian Weiqi , Han Wei , Yang Ya
Published: August 2020

Triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) has attracted increasingly attention in a new energy field. However, it is still a huge challenge for TENG to transmit electricity or be self‐powered sensing without hard wires, which can reduce the efficiency of power generation and further cause inconvenience for connecting device. Here, a flow‐driven wireless TENG for efficient power transmission, ultrasensitive distance sensing, and obstacle monitoring in the gas pipe is reported. The wireless TENG can generate a voltage/current signal of about 121.0 V/4.4 µA at the receiving distance of 1.5 cm with a wind speed of 18.0 m s−1. When the distance is increased to 10.0 cm, the output voltage can be decreased to 8.0 V with a sensitivity of 92% owing to the decrease of induced charges on receiving electrodes. The relationship that the output voltage decreases with increasing the receiving distance has been confirmed, suggesting the possibility of the wireless TENG as a self‐powered distance sensor. Moreover, by installing several wireless TENGs uniformly in a gas pipe, the position and specific placement state of an obstacle in gas pipe can be effectively monitored with the self‐powered way.
Material Recognition Sensor Array by Electrostatic Induction and Triboelectric Effects
Authors: Rong Xin , Zhao Junqing , Guo Hang , Zhen Gaowei , Yu Jinghan , Zhang Chi , Dong Guifang
Published: August 2020

The development of the sensor array has received substantial attention due to its enormous potential in artificial intelligences. The development of a sensor array with supernatural functions is of great significance and this paper presents a sort of flexible sensor array capable of recognizing material based on the electrostatic induction and triboelectric effects. In the nature, different materials have different abilities of gaining or donating electrons. When a tested material (including plastic, glass, or metal) approaches or leaves different probe materials integrated in the sensor array, the amplitude and phase of the induced electrical signals, which are related to the inherent feature of the tested material, are detected and analyzed, and then, the tested material can be distinguished. This sort of flexible sensor array has advantages of quick response (70 ms), accurate identification, low cost, and easy fabrication. It has promising application in wearable electronic devices and intelligent robots.
Perfluorobutyl Iodide Mediated [1,2] and [2,3] Stevens Rearrangement for the Synthesis of Indolin‐3‐Ones
Authors: Chen Zhen‐Yu , Lin Bi‐Zhen , Chen Lei , Zou Yong , Yan Ming , Zhang Xue‐Jing
Published: August 2020

The tertiary amine and ketone components of 1‐carbonyl‐substituted anilines undergo [1,2] and [2,3] Stevens rearrangement reactions, triggered by a C4F9 radical, formed from electron donor–acceptor complexes. This approach enables the formation of a quaternary ammonium salt and thus a Stevens rearrangement to afford indolin‐3‐ones under mild conditions.

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Choice of Nanovaccine Delivery Mode Has Profound Impacts on the Intralymph Node Spatiotemporal Distribution and Immunotherapy Efficacy
Authors: Wang Jianghua , Wang Shuang , Ye Tong , Li Feng , Gao Xiaoyong , Wang Yan , Ye Peng , Qing Shuang , Wang Changlong , Yue Hua , Wu Jie , Wei Wei , Ma Guanghui
Published: August 2020

Nanovaccines have attracted booming interests in vaccinology studies, but the profound impacts of their delivery mode on immune response remain unrealized. Herein, immunostimulatory CpG‐modified tumor‐derived nanovesicles (CNVs) are used as a nanovaccine testbed to initially evaluate the impacts of three distinct delivery modes, including mono‐pulse CNVs, staggered‐pulse CNVs, and gel‐confined CNVs. Fundamentally, delivery mode has enormous impacts on the immunomodulatory effects, altering the spatiotemporal distribution of nanovaccine residence and dendritic cell–T cell interaction in lymph nodes, and finally affecting subsequent T cell‐mediated immune performance. As a result, the gel‐confined delivery mode offers the best therapeutic performance in multiple tumor models. When extending evaluation to examine how the various delivery modes impact the performance of liposome‐based nanovaccines, similar trends in intralymph node distribution and antitumor effect are observed. This work provides a strong empirical foundation that nanovaccine researchers should position delivery mode near the top of their considerations for the experimental design, which should speed up nanovaccine development and facilitate efficient selection of appropriate delivery modes in the clinic.
Implementing Community‐Based Participatory Research with Communities Affected by Humanitarian Crises: The Potential to Recalibrate Equity and Power in Vulnerable Contexts
Authors: Afifi Rima A. , Abdulrahim Sawsan , Betancourt Theresa , Btedinni Dima , Berent Jenna , Dellos Laura , Farrar Jordan , Nakkash Rima , Osman Rilwan , Saravanan Monisa , Story William. T. , Zombo Moses , Parker Edith
Published: August 2020

Worldwide, over 70.8 million people are forcibly displaced from their homes as a result of persecution, conflict, violence, or human rights violation. In humanitarian crises, protection and the provision of basic needs are often prioritized. Research may be seen as opportunistic. However, without documenting and researching humanitarian responses, knowledge is not shared and does not accumulate, limiting the application of evidence‐based interventions where they are most needed. Research in humanitarian crises is complex, both ethically and methodologically. Community‐engaged research, and specifically community‐based participatory research (CBPR), can address some of the challenges of research in these settings. Using case studies of research we have conducted with communities affected by humanitarian crises, we highlight challenges and opportunities of the application of the ten core principles of CBPR in humanitarian settings. Despite some challenges and barriers, CBPR is a highly effective approach to use when engaging these populations in research. We argue that the application of CBPR in these settings has the potential to recalibrate the scales of equity and power among vulnerable populations.
Deletion rescue resulting in segmental homozygosity: A mechanism underlying discordant NIPT results
Authors: Caldwell Samantha , Sagaser Katelynn , Nelson Zoe , Frey Jennifer , Wardrop Jenna , Boomer Theresa , McCullough Ron , Schwartz Stuart
Published: August 2020

With the increasing capabilities of non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), detection of sub‐chromosomal deletions and duplications are possible. This case series of deletion rescues resulting in segmental homozygosity helps provide a biological explanation for NIPT discrepancies and adds to the dearth of existing literature surrounding segmental UPD cases and their underlying mechanisms. In the three cases presented here, NIPT reported a sub‐chromosomal deletion (in isolation or as part of a complex finding). Diagnostic testing, however, revealed segmental homozygosity or UPD for the region reported deleted on NIPT. Postnatal placental testing was pursued in two cases and confirmed the NIPT findings. This discordance between the screening and diagnostic testing is suggestive of a corrective post‐zygotic event, such as telomere capture and/or deletion rescue, ultimately resulting in segmental homozygosity and fetoplacental mosaicism. Imprinted chromosomes and autosomal recessive disease genes make homozygosity an important clinical consideration. Amniocentesis with SNP microarray is particularly useful in determining both copy number and UPD issues alike.
Transition‐Metal‐Free Csp2−H Regioselective Thiocyanation of Free Anilines
Authors: Dai Peng , Li Chenxiao , Li Yufei , Xia Qing , Zhang Mingzhi , Gu Yu‐Cheng , Zhang Wei‐Hua
Published: August 2020

A highly efficient and general method for the direct Csp2−H radical thiocyanation of free anilines was developed under transition‐metal‐free conditions, which can be used with stable and nontoxic potassium SCN as a thiocyanation source and potassium persulfate as the oxidant to synthesize p‐thiocyanoanilines with good yields, regioselectivity, and broad substrate tolerance. This reaction offers a simple regioselective method for the synthesis of para‐position thiocyanate (SCN)‐ containing anilines.
Secular change in morphological cranial and mandibular trait frequencies in European Americans born 1824–1987
Authors: Kilroy Grace S. , Tallman Sean D. , DiGangi Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2020

Objectives

Secular change in cranial and postcranial morphometrics and morphological traits has been documented in several studies. However, to date, few studies have addressed temporal changes occurring in the expression of cranial morphological traits commonly used in ancestry estimation. This study examines secular change in the expression of 23 cranial and mandibular morphological traits; accounting for age‐at‐death, sex, and year‐of‐birth.

Materials & Methods

Data were collected on 23 morphological cranial and mandibular traits for European American individuals (19–97 years of age) from the Hamann‐Todd Skeletal Collection (n = 518) and the William M. Bass Donated Skeletal Collection (n = 602). Individuals were divided into six birth‐year cohorts: 1824–1849 (Cohort 1), 1850–1874 (Cohort 2), 1875–1899 (Cohort 3), 1900–1924 (Cohort 4), 1925–1949 (Cohort 5), and 1950–1987 (Cohort 6).

Results

Statistical analyses, including Pearson's chi‐square, correspondence analysis, and ordinal regression, demonstrate that secular changes have occurred in 11 traits, including: anterior nasal spine (ANS); malar tubercle (MT); nasal bone contour (NBC); postbregmatic depression (PBD); supranasal suture (SPS); transverse palatine suture (TPS); zygomaticomaxillary suture (ZS); ascending ramus shape (ARS); gonial angle flare (GAF); mandibular tori (MDT); and posterior ramus edge inversion (PREI), with changes occurring in both sexes for ANS, MT, TPS, ZS, GAF, MDT, and PREI. Significant changes in trait expression were found predominately between Cohorts 3 and 4, and Cohorts 4 and 5. While the sex of an individual affected the expression of ANS, MT, NBC, PBD, SPS, ZS, ARS, GAF, and PREI, age‐at‐death only affected MT and PREI.

Discussion

This study demonstrates that secular change in morphological cranial and mandibular traits has occurred over the last two centuries in European Americans, with the most considerable change appearing at the turn of the twentieth century. Changes in morphological trait expression over a relatively short period of time correspond with changes seen in craniometric analyses and correlate with the industrialization of society and environmental and cultural changes, such as medical advancements, nutrition, and population health/stress.
Push and pull factors impacting the pedagogical approaches used by sonographers to teach scanning skills
Authors: Nicholls Delwyn , Sweet Linda , Hyett Jon , Müller Amanda
Published: August 2020

Objective

To report the qualitative findings of the inaugural survey of sonographer skill‐teaching practices in Australia using the SonoSTePs tool.

Method

A national cross‐sectional survey of all qualified sonographers registered with the Australian Sonographer Accreditation Registry. A mix of quantitative and qualitative data was collected. This paper reports on a content analysis of the qualitative data relating to factors that impact on teaching.

Results

A total of 528 respondents provided a range of qualitative data in five extended text questions. Five key themes emerged from the analysis: limited protected teaching time; perceived skill complexity; learner skill level and credentials; avoiding overwhelming the learner; and patient well‐being and their willingness to be scanned. Novel teaching interactions between the educator and the student sonographer were identified. Information was provided to learners at four time‐points across the continuum of clinical practice performance. The type, quantity and purpose of the information provided by the educator to the learner differed at each of these four time‐points and included the following: (i) pre‐task clarification, guidance and practice norms; (ii) in‐task verbal information and scanning support; (iii) post‐task support and information; and (iv) end‐task or terminal feedback.

Conclusion

This is the first published study which reports the push and pull factors affecting pedagogical approaches to teach and learn complex scanning skills. These results provide a corpus of new knowledge, and the first analysis and review, about the pedagogical findings related to teaching scanning skills for clinical practice. This study provides a basis for further research and practice improvements.
Structures and Structural Evolution of Sublayer Surfaces of Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Han Xiaocang , Liu Pan , Lin Fang , Chen Wenqian , Luo Ruichun , Han Qi , Jiang Zhuo , Wang Xiaodong , Song Shuangxi , Reddy Kolan Madhav , Deng Hexiang , Chen Mingwei
Published: August 2020

The structural characterization of sublayer surfaces of MIL‐101 is reported by low‐dose spherical aberration‐corrected high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The state‐of‐the‐art microscopy directly images atomic/molecular configurations in thin crystals from charge density projections, and uncovers the structures of sublayer surfaces and their evolution to stable surfaces regulated by inorganic Cr3(μ3‐O) trimers. This study provides compelling evidence of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) crystal growth via the assembly of sublayer surfaces and has important implications in understanding the crystal growth and surface‐related properties of MOFs.
Hydrogen‐Bonding‐Promoted Cascade Rearrangement Involving the Enlargement of Two Rings: Efficient Access to Polycyclic Quinoline Derivatives
Authors: Cao Wen‐Bin , Li Shijun , Xu Meng‐Meng , Li Haiyan , Xu Xiao‐Ping , Lan Yu , Ji Shun‐Jun
Published: August 2020

An efficient cascade reaction of tryptamine‐derived isocyanides with C,N‐cyclic azomethine imines is described. The polycyclic pyrrolo[2,3‐c]quinoline derivatives, which benefited from rearrangement process driven by hydrogen bonding, could be directly assembled in moderate to good yields (40–87 %) under metal‐free and mild conditions. This transformation involved four new heterocyclic rings formations and uniquely, ring opening of indole as well as ring expansion of C,N‐cyclic azomethine imine. Both experimental and DFT studies provided guidance on the in‐depth insight into the reaction pathways and hydrogen bonding was identified to lower the free energy barrier in transition states. This work constitutes a rare example of tryptamine‐derived isocyanide‐based cascade reactions, and potentially could be a powerful synthetic strategy for accessing polycyclic analogues involved in natural products.
Protein Allostery at Atomic Resolution
Authors: Strotz Dean , Orts Julien , Kadavath Harindranath , Friedmann Michael , Ghosh Dhiman , Olsson Simon , Chi Celestine N. , Pokharna Aditya , Güntert Peter , Vögeli Beat , Riek Roland
Published: August 2020

Protein allostery is a phenomenon involving the long range coupling between two distal sites in a protein. In order to elucidate allostery at atomic resoluion on the ligand‐binding WW domain of the enzyme Pin1, multistate structures were calculated from exact nuclear Overhauser effect (eNOE). In its free form, the protein undergoes a microsecond exchange between two states, one of which is predisposed to interact with its parent catalytic domain. In presence of the positive allosteric ligand, the equilibrium between the two states is shifted towards domain–domain interaction, suggesting a population shift model. In contrast, the allostery‐suppressing ligand decouples the side‐chain arrangement at the inter‐domain interface thereby reducing the inter‐domain interaction. As such, this mechanism is an example of dynamic allostery. The presented distinct modes of action highlight the power of the interplay between dynamics and function in the biological activity of proteins.
3D‐to‐2D Dimensional Reduction for Exploiting a Multilayered Perovskite Ferroelectric toward Polarized‐Light Detection in the Solar‐Blind Ultraviolet Region
Authors: Xu Zhiyun , Weng Wen , Li Yaobin , Liu Xitao , Yang Tao , Li Maofan , Huang Xiaoying , Luo Junhua , Sun Zhihua
Published: August 2020

Polarized‐light detection in solar‐blind ultraviolet region is indispensable for optoelectronic applications, whereas new 2D candidates targeted at solar‐blind UV range remain extremely scarce. 2D hybrid perovskite ferroelectrics that combine polarization and semiconducting properties are of increasing interest. Here, using the 3D‐to‐2D dimensional reduction of CH3NH3PbCl3, we designed a multilayered hybrid perovskite ferroelectric, (CH3CH2NH3)2(CH3NH3)2Pb3Cl10, which shows spontaneous polarization and a high Curie temperature (390 K) comparable with that of BaTiO3 (393 K). The wide band gap (ca. 3.35 eV) and anisotropic absorbance stemming from its intrinsic 2D motif, greatly favor its polarization‐sensitive activity in UV region. The device displays excellent polarization‐sensitive behavior under 266 nm, along with a large dichroic ratio (ca. 1.38) and high on/off current ratio (ca. 2.3×103).
Dihydrogen Adduct (Co–H2) Complexes Displaying H‐Atom and Hydride Transfer
Authors: Deegan Meaghan M. , Hannoun Kareem I. , Peters Jonas C.
Published: August 2020

The prototypical reactivity profiles of transition metal dihydrogen complexes (M‐H2) are well‐characterized with respect to oxidative addition (to afford dihydrides, M(H)2) and as acids, heterolytically delivering H+ to a base and H− to the metal. In the course of this study we explored plausible alternative pathways for H2 activation, namely direct activation through H‐atom or hydride transfer from the σ‐H2 adducts. To this end, we describe herein the reactivity of an isostructural pair of a neutral S=
and an anionic S=0 Co‐H2 adduct, both supported by a trisphosphine borane ligand (P3B). The thermally stable metalloradical, (P3B)Co(H2), serves as a competent precursor for hydrogen atom transfer to tBu3ArO⋅. What is more, its anionic derivative, the dihydrogen complex [(P3B)Co(H2)]1−, is a competent precursor for hydride transfer to BEt3, establishing its remarkable hydricity. The latter finding is essentially without precedent among the vast number of M‐H2 complexes known.
Isoxazole derivatives of silatrane: synthesis, characterization, in silico ADME profile, prediction of potential pharmacological activity and evaluation of antimicrobial action
Authors: Adamovich Sergey N. , Kondrashov Evgeniy V. , Ushakov Igor A. , Shatokhina Nina S. , Oborina Elizaveta N. , Vashchenko Alexander V. , Belovezhets Lydmila A. , Rozentsveig Igor B. , Verpoort Francis
Published: August 2020

A new family of mono‐ (3a‐h) and bis‐ (4a‐g) isoxazole‐bridged silatranes has been synthesized by the reaction of 3‐aminopropylsilatrane (1) and 3‐substituted 5‐chloro‐methylisoxazoles (2a‐h). The structure of the isoxazole‐silatrane hybrids is characterized by elemental analysis, FT‐IR, UV, NMR (1H, 13C,29Si and 15N) spectroscopy, high‐resolution mass spectrometry, and X‐ray diffraction analysis. The in silico ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion) assessment reveals that properties of mono‐adducts (3a‐h) are similar to those of drugs obeyed to the Lipinski's rule. The calculated screening of potential pharmacological activity profiles (in silico PASS program) of isoxazole‐silatranes shows that all synthesized compounds (both mono‐ and bis‐substituted) may have high antitumor action, unlike starting isoxazoles. The preliminary screening of the synthesized silatranes for antimicrobial activity against Enterococcus durans, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa indicates that all test samples are active only against gram‐positive microorganisms. Silatrane 3f displays minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC 12.5 and 6.2 μg ml−1) against E. durans and B. subtilis as compared with standard drug gentamicin (MIC 25 and 50 μg ml−1).
Direct transformation of AgNO3 complex encapsulated Fullerene (C60) microcrystal on solid silver Nitrate Crystal without organic Ligands
Authors: Hou Ying , Pan Yinxu , Dong Chunhong , Nie Bei
Published: August 2020

We observed the unusual crystal transformation from solid AgNO3 to Ag(I)‐encapsulated fullerene (C60) microcrystal by a coordination‐driven crystallization, when casting C60 solution on AgNO3 crystal. The strong binding of Ag+‐C60 ruptures electrostatic interactions within AgNO3 lattice, forming a binary hybrid material, which was characterized by XRD, Raman spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. Our results support the fact that AgNO3 crystal can directly interact with fullerene C60 molecules, other than through solvated metal cations. Two major factors, namely sturdy Ag+‐olefin interaction and an enclosed cage effect play the dominating roles in crystal transformation. Adding to the regular solution‐based crystallization, this facial protocol is expected to render an additional dimension in fabrication of exohedral metallofullerene architecture, regardless of solubility of metal cation in anti‐solvent.