bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Light‐Driven Liquid Crystalline Networks and Soft Actuators with Degree‐of‐Freedom‐Controlled Molecular Motors
Authors: Lan Ruochen , Sun Jian , Shen Chen , Huang Rui , Zhang Zhongping , Ma Cong , Bao Jinying , Zhang Lanying , Wang Ling , Yang Dengke , Yang Huai
Published: March 2020

Design and fabrication of photomechanical soft actuators has attracted intense scientific interest because of their potential in the manufacture of untethered intelligent soft robots and advanced functional devices. Trifunctional and monofunctional polymerizable molecular motors are judiciously designed and synthesized. Novel light‐driven liquid crystalline networks (LCN) are prepared by crosslinking overcrowded‐alkene‐based molecular motors with different degrees of freedom into the anisotropic LCN. The photoisomerization and thermal helix inversion of light‐driven molecular motors are reversible when only the upper part of the molecular motor is linked to the network, endowing the LCN film with remarkable photoactive performance. However, photochemical geometric change of the light‐driven molecular motor does not work after crosslinking both the upper and lower part of the motor by polymer chains. Interestingly, it is found that the fastened motor can transfer the light energy into localized heat instead of performing photoisomerization. The light‐driven molecular‐motor‐based LCN soft actuators are demonstrated to function as a grasping hand, where the continuous motions of grasping, moving, lifting, and releasing an object are successfully achieved. This work may provide inspiration to the preparation of next‐generation photoactive advanced functional materials toward their wide applications in the areas of photonics, optoelectronics, soft robotics, and beyond.
How To Quantify the Efficiency Potential of Neat Perovskite Films: Perovskite Semiconductors with an Implied Efficiency Exceeding 28%
Authors: Stolterfoht Martin , Grischek Max , Caprioglio Pietro , Wolff Christian M. , Gutierrez‐Partida Emilio , Peña‐Camargo Francisco , Rothhardt Daniel , Zhang Shanshan , Raoufi Meysam , Wolansky Jakob , Abdi‐Jalebi Mojtaba , Stranks Samuel D. , Albrecht Steve , Kirchartz Thomas , Neher Dieter
Published: March 2020

Perovskite photovoltaic (PV) cells have demonstrated power conversion efficiencies (PCE) that are close to those of monocrystalline silicon cells; however, in contrast to silicon PV, perovskites are not limited by Auger recombination under 1‐sun illumination. Nevertheless, compared to GaAs and monocrystalline silicon PV, perovskite cells have significantly lower fill factors due to a combination of resistive and non‐radiative recombination losses. This necessitates a deeper understanding of the underlying loss mechanisms and in particular the ideality factor of the cell. By measuring the intensity dependence of the external open‐circuit voltage and the internal quasi‐Fermi level splitting (QFLS), the transport resistance‐free efficiency of the complete cell as well as the efficiency potential of any neat perovskite film with or without attached transport layers are quantified. Moreover, intensity‐dependent QFLS measurements on different perovskite compositions allows for disentangling of the impact of the interfaces and the perovskite surface on the non‐radiative fill factor and open‐circuit voltage loss. It is found that potassium‐passivated triple cation perovskite films stand out by their exceptionally high implied PCEs > 28%, which could be achieved with ideal transport layers. Finally, strategies are presented to reduce both the ideality factor and transport losses to push the efficiency to the thermodynamic limit.
Lattice‐Matching Structurally‐Stable 1D@3D Perovskites toward Highly Efficient and Stable Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Peng , Xian Yeming , Yuan Weinan , Long Yi , Liu Kun , Rahman Naveed Ur , Li Wenzhe , Fan Jiandong
Published: March 2020

The stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has been identified to be the bottleneck toward their industrialization. With the aim of tackling this challenge, a 1D PbI2‐bipyridine (BPy)(II) perovskite is fabricated, which is shown to be capable of in situ assembly of a 1D@3D perovskite that is promoted by a PbI2‐dimethyl sulfoxide complex with a skeletal linear chain structure. The as‐prepared 1D@3D perovskite is observed to demonstrate extremely high stability under external large electric fields in humid environments by means of an in situ characterization technique. This stability is associated with its well lattice‐matching heterojunction structure between 1D and 3D heterojunction domains. Importantly, ion migration is alleviated through blocking of the ion‐migration channels. Accordingly, the 1D@3D hybrid PSC shows a power conversion efficiency of 21.18% maintaining remarkably high long‐term stability in the presence of water, illumination, and external electric fields. This rational design and microstructure study of 1D@3D perovskites provides a new paradigm that may enable higher efficiency and stability of PSCs.
Intracellular Reactions Promoted by Bis(histidine) Miniproteins Stapled Using Palladium(II) Complexes
Authors: Learte‐Aymamí Soraya , Vidal Cristian , Gutiérrez‐González Alejandro , Mascareñas José L.
Published: March 2020

The generation of catalytically active metalloproteins inside living mammalian cells is a major research challenge at the interface between catalysis and cell biology. Herein we demonstrate that basic domains of bZIP transcription factors, mutated to include two histidine residues at i and i+4 positions, react with palladium(II) sources to generate catalytically active, stapled pallado‐miniproteins. The resulting constrained peptides are efficiently internalized into living mammalian cells, where they perform palladium‐promoted depropargylation reactions without cellular fixation. Control experiments confirm the requirement of the peptide scaffolding and the palladium staple for attaining the intracellular reactivity.
Tumor‐Specific Chemotherapy by Nanomedicine‐Enabled Differential Stress Sensitization
Authors: Yang Bowen , Chen Yu , Shi Jianlin
Published: March 2020

Most of current nanomedicines are administrated intravenously to favour tumor accumulation through enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect, which, however, suffers from several drawbacks such as low drug bioavailability and severe side effect. In this work, we have constructed a doxorubicin(Dox)‐based liposomal nanosystem for tumor‐specific chemotherapy, by enabling differential stress sensitization between cancer and normal cells for restricting the chemodrug toxicity exclusively in tumor regions. 2‐Deoxy‐D‐glucose (2DG) was loaded in the nanoliposome to inhibit glycolysis of cancer cells, which works in synergy with the co‐loaded chemodrug Dox to promote mitochondrial depolarization and subsequent apoptosis. In addition, the starvation effect of 2DG can counteract the toxicity of Dox in normal cells and thus mitigates the harmful side effect of chemotherapy. It is expected that such a differential stress sensitization strategy may greatly benefit future nanomedicine design.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Sulfonamides With (Hetero)aryl Chlorides
Authors: McGuire Ryan T. , Simon Connor M. , Yadav Arun A. , Ferguson Michael J. , Stradiotto Mark
Published: March 2020

The development of Ni‐catalyzed C−N cross‐couplings of sulfonamides with (hetero)aryl chlorides is reported. These transformations, which were previously achievable only with Pd catalysis, are enabled by use of air‐stable (L)NiCl(o‐tol) pre‐catalysts (L=PhPAd‐DalPhos and PAd2‐DalPhos), without photocatalysis. The collective scope of (pseudo)halide electrophiles (X=Cl, Br, I, OTs, and OC(O)NEt2) demonstrated herein is unprecedented for any reported catalyst system for sulfonamide C−N cross‐coupling (Pd, Cu, Ni, or other). Preliminary competition experiments and relevant coordination chemistry studies are also presented.
Biological assays and theoretical density functional theory calculations of Rh(I), Ir(III), and Ru(II) complexes of chiral phosphinite ligand
Authors: Rafikova Khadichakhan , Binbay Nil Ertekin , Meriç Nermin , Kerimkulova Aygul , Zazybin Alexey , Binbay Veysel , Okumuş Veysi , Kayan Cezmi , Işik Uğur , Arslan Nevin , Aydemir Murat
Published: March 2020

Four metal complexes, IL‐OPPh2‐Ru‐p‐cymene (3), IL‐OPPh2‐Ru‐benzene (4), IL‐OPPh2‐Ir‐Cp* (5), IL‐OPPh2‐Rh‐COD (6), have been evaluated for in vitro antioxidant activity such as 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and reducing power activity. Maximum scavenging activity (71.43%) was obtained with IL‐OPPh2‐Ru‐p‐cymene, whereas IL‐OPPh2‐Rh‐COD showed the highest reducing power ability. The complexes were also studied for their antimicrobial activity against three Gram‐positive and three Gram‐negative bacteria. In addition, DNA binding of the complexes was evaluated using calf thymus DNA. Both Ru(II) complexes exhibited good DNA‐binding activity while the other complexes did not have any activity. Furthermore, ab initio quantum calculations of four complexes were also carried out using density functional theory to better understand their chemical behaviors.
Definition of Naturally Processed Peptides Reveals Convergent Presentation of Autoantigenic Topoisomerase I Epitopes in Scleroderma
Authors: Tiniakou Eleni , Fava Andrea , McMahan Zsuzsanna H. , Guhr Tara , O'Meally Robert N. , Shah Ami A. , Wigley Fredrick M. , Cole Robert N. , Boin Francesco , Darrah Erika
Published: March 2020

Objective

Autoimmune responses to DNA topoisomerase I (topo I) are found in a subset of scleroderma patients who are at high risk for interstitial lung disease (ILD) and mortality. Anti–topo I antibodies (ATAs) are associated with specific HLA–DRB1 alleles, and the frequency of HLA–DR–restricted topo I–specific CD4+ T cells is associated with the presence, severity, and progression of ILD. Although this strongly implicates the presentation of topo I peptides by HLA–DR in scleroderma pathogenesis, the processing and presentation of topo I has not been studied.

Methods

We developed a natural antigen processing assay (NAPA) to identify putative CD4+ T cell epitopes of topo I presented by monocyte‐derived dendritic cells (mo‐DCs) from 6 ATA‐positive patients with scleroderma. Mo‐DCs were pulsed with topo I protein, HLA–DR–peptide complexes were isolated, and eluted peptides were analyzed by mass spectrometry. We then examined the ability of these naturally presented peptides to induce CD4+ T cell activation in 11 ATA‐positive and 11 ATA‐negative scleroderma patients.

Results

We found that a common set of 10 topo I epitopes was presented by Mo‐DCs from scleroderma patients with diverse HLA–DR variants. Sequence analysis revealed shared peptide‐binding motifs within the HLA–DRβ chains of ATA‐positive patients and a subset of topo I epitopes with distinct sets of anchor residues capable of binding to multiple different HLA–DR variants. The NAPA‐derived epitopes elicited robust CD4+ T cell responses in 73% of ATA‐positive patients (8 of 11), and the number of epitopes recognized correlated with ILD severity (P = 0.025).

Conclusion

These findings mechanistically implicate the presentation of a convergent set of topo I epitopes in the development of scleroderma.
Altered Repertoire Diversity and Disease‐Associated Clonal Expansions Revealed by T Cell Receptor Immunosequencing in Ankylosing Spondylitis Patients
Authors: Hanson Aimee L. , Nel Hendrik J. , Bradbury Linda , Phipps Julie , Thomas Ranjeny , Lê Cao Kim‐Anh , Kenna Tony J. , Brown Matthew A.
Published: March 2020

Objective

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a common spondyloarthropathy primarily affecting the axial skeleton and strongly associated with HLA–B*27 carriage. Genetic evidence implicates both autoinflammatory processes and autoimmunity against an HLA–B*27–restricted autoantigen in immunopathology. In addition to articular symptoms, up to 70% of AS patients present with concurrent bowel inflammation, suggesting that adverse interactions between a genetically primed host immune system and the gut microbiome contribute to the disease. Accordingly, this study aimed to characterize adaptive immune responses to antigenic stimuli in AS.

Methods

The peripheral CD4 and CD8 T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire was profiled in AS patients (n = 47) and HLA–B*27–matched healthy controls (n = 38). Repertoire diversity was estimated using the Normalized Shannon Diversity Entropy (NSDE) index, and univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were performed to characterize AS‐associated clonal signatures. Furthermore, T cell proliferation and cytokine production in response to immunogenic antigen exposure were investigated in vitro in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from AS patients (n = 19) and HLA–B*27–matched healthy controls (n = 14).

Results

Based on the NSDE measure of sample diversity across CD4 and CD8 T cell repertoires, AS patients showed increased TCR diversity compared to healthy controls (for CD4 T cells, P = 7.8 × 10−6; for CD8 T cells, P = 9.3 × 10−4), which was attributed to a significant reduction in the magnitude of peripheral T cell expansions globally. Upon in vitro stimulation, fewer T cells from AS patients than from healthy controls expressed interferon‐γ (for CD8 T cells, P = 0.03) and tumor necrosis factor (for CD4 T cells, P = 0.01; for CD8 T cells, P = 0.002). In addition, the CD8 TCR signature was altered in HLA–B*27+ AS patients compared to healthy controls, with significantly expanded Epstein‐Barr virus–specific clonotypes (P = 0.03) and cytomegalovirus‐specific clonotypes (P = 0.02). HLA–B*27+ AS patients also showed an increased incidence of “public” CD8 TCRs, representing identical clonotypes emerging in response to common antigen encounters, including homologous clonotypes matching those previously isolated from individuals with bacterial‐induced reactive arthritis.

Conclusion

The dynamics of peripheral T cell responses in AS patients are altered, suggesting that differential antigen exposure and disrupted adaptive immunity are underlying features of the disease.
Optimization of 3D hydrogel microenvironment for enhanced hepatic functionality of primary human hepatocytes
Authors: Lee Ho‐Joon , Ahn Jiwon , Jung Cho‐Rock , Jeung Yun‐Ji , Cho Hyun‐Soo , Son Myung Jin , Chung Kyung‐Sook
Published: March 2020

Although primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) are the gold standard in drug efficacy and metabolism studies, long‐term survival of PHHs and maintenance of their hepatic function are still challenging. In this study, we focused on the effect of the initial microenvironment on upregulation and long‐term preservation of hepatic function of PHHs encapsulated within biodegradable hydrogel systems. PHHs were encapsulated in RGD‐functionalized hybrid hydrogels with various degrees of degradability, and their hepatic functionality was analyzed. Regardless of the hydrogel elastic modulus, the combination with nondegradable hydrogels had a predominantly negative effect on the prompt engraftment of PHHs, whereas a degradable hydrogel with intermediate initial degradability was most effective in maintaining hepatic function. Efficient network formation by PHHs and cocultured cells, along with the control of hydrogel degradation, governed the hepatic functionality at an early stage and upon long‐term cultivation. Under optimized conditions, expression of genes involved in biological processes such as focal adhesions, cell survival, cytoskeleton formation, and extracellular matrix interactions was significantly higher than that in a control with relatively delayed initial degradation. Thus, we suggest that the orchestrated control of initial cellular remodeling may play an important role in the maintenance of hepatic function in a three‐dimensional PHH culture.
Long-term follow-up of the randomized trial of mesorectal excision with or without lateral lymph node dissection in rectal cancer (JCOG0212)
Authors: Tsukamoto S , Fujita S , Ota M , Mizusawa J , Shida D , Kanemitsu Y , Ito M , Shiomi A , Komori K , Ohue M , Akazai Y , Shiozawa M , Yamaguchi T , Bando H , Tsuchida A , Okamura S , Akagi Y , Takiguchi N , Saida Y , Akasu T , Moriya Y
Published: March 2020

Background

Japan Clinical Oncology Group (JCOG) 0212 (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00190541) was a non-inferiority phase III trial of patients with clinical stage II–III rectal cancer without lateral pelvic lymph node enlargement. The trial compared mesorectal excision (ME) with ME and lateral lymph node dissection (LLND), with a primary endpoint of recurrence-free survival (RFS). The planned primary analysis at 5 years failed to confirm the non-inferiority of ME alone compared with ME and LLND. The present study aimed to compare ME alone and ME with LLND using long-term follow-up data from JCOG0212.

Methods

Patients with clinical stage II–III rectal cancer below the peritoneal reflection and no lateral pelvic lymph node enlargement were included in this study. After surgeons confirmed R0 resection by ME, patients were randomized to receive ME alone or ME with LLND. The primary endpoint was RFS.

Results

A total of 701 patients from 33 institutions were assigned to ME with LLND (351) or ME alone (350) between June 2003 and August 2010. The 7-year RFS rate was 71.1 per cent for ME with LLND and 70·7 per cent for ME alone (hazard ratio (HR) 1·09, 95 per cent c.i. 0·84 to 1·42; non-inferiority P = 0·064). Subgroup analysis showed improved RFS among patients with clinical stage III disease who underwent ME with LLND compared with ME alone (HR 1·49, 1·02 to 2·17).

Conclusion

Long-term follow-up data did not support the non-inferiority of ME alone compared with ME and LLND. ME with LLND is recommended for patients with clinical stage III disease, whereas LLND could be omitted in those with clinical stage II tumours.
Use of an intraoperative wound protector to prevent surgical-site infection after pancreatoduodenectomy: randomized clinical trial
Authors: De Pastena M , Marchegiani G , Paiella S , Fontana M , Esposito A , Casetti L , Secchettin E , Manzini G , Bassi C , Salvia R
Published: March 2020

Background

Surgical-site infection (SSI) increases treatment costs, duration of hospital stay and readmission rate after pancreatic surgery. This study aimed to assess whether a wound protector could reduce the risk of superficial incisional SSI after pancreatoduodenectomy.

Methods

This RCT included patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy at Verona University Hospital, between 2017 and 2018. The experimental group had a dual-ring wound protector, whereas the control group had standard surgical drapes. The groups were stratified by preoperative biliary stent placement. The primary outcome was the overall rate of superficial SSI.

Results

An interim analysis was conducted after 212 patients had been enrolled; 22 patients (10·4 per cent) were excluded owing to inability to complete the pancreatoduodenectomy, or the need for postoperative reintervention. Some 94 patients (49·5 per cent) had a wound protector and 96 (50·5 per cent) had standard drapes. There were no differences between groups in demographics, or in intraoperative findings, pathological data or surgical outcomes. The overall superficial SSI rate was 7·4 per cent, which did not differ between groups (7 per cent in each group; P = 0·585). Subanalysis of patients with a preoperative biliary stent showed a similar outcome (superficial SSI rate 9 versus 8 per cent with wound protector versus surgical drapes respectively; P = 0·536). The trial was stopped prematurely on the grounds of futility.

Conclusion

Use of a wound protector did not reduce the rate of superficial SSI after pancreatoduodenectomy. Registration number: NCT03820648 (http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).
Association between atherosclerosis and Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Xie Beijia , Shi Xinrui , Xing Yi , Tang Yi
Published: March 2020

Background

To evaluate the relationship between atherosclerosis and Alzheimer's disease (AD), we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis to study the difference of carotid intima–media thickness (CIMT) and the prevalence of atherosclerosis between AD patients and non‐AD controls.

Methods

The studies on the association between atherosclerosis and AD were manually searched in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure) spanned to September 2018 according to PRISMA (the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses) guidelines.

Results

Thirteen studies were included in the final analysis, seven studies with data on the mean CIMT (610 cases and 417 controls) and ten studies reporting on the prevalence of atherosclerosis (1,698 cases and 6,452 controls). Compared with controls, AD group showed a significantly higher CIMT (overall standard mean difference = 0.94; 95% CI, 0.48–1.40; p < .0001) and an increased prevalence of atherosclerosis (OR = 1.46; 95% CI, 1.26–1.68; p < .0001).

Conclusions

Atherosclerosis is significantly associated with AD. CIMT might be a useful marker to predict the risk of AD and assess the vascular burden. The finding is also important for possible prevention and treatment of AD in the future.
Required efficacy for novel therapies in BCG‐unresponsive non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer: Do current recommendations really reflect clinically meaningful outcomes?
Authors: Wettstein Marian S. , Naimark David , Hermanns Thomas , Herrera‐Caceres Jaime O. , Ahmad Ardalan , Jewett Michael A.S. , Kulkarni Girish S.
Published: March 2020

Background

Single‐arm trials are currently an accepted study design to investigate the efficacy of novel therapies (NT) in non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) unresponsive to intravesical Bacillus Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy as randomized controlled trials are either unfeasible (comparator: early radical cystectomy; ERC), or unethical (comparator: placebo). To guide the design of such single‐arm trials, expert groups published recommendations for clinically meaningful outcomes. The aim of this study was to quantitatively verify the appropriateness of these recommendations.

Methods

We used a discrete event simulation framework in combination with a supercomputer to find the required efficacy at which a NT can compete with ERC when it comes to quality‐adjusted life expectancy (QALE). In total, 24 different efficacy thresholds (including the recommendations) were investigated.

Results

After ascertaining face validity with content experts, repeated verification, external validation, and calibration we considered our model valid. Both recommendations rarely showed an incremental benefit of the NT over ERC. In the most optimistic scenario, an increase in the IBCG recommendation by 10% and an increase in the FDA/AUA recommendation by 5% would yield results at which a NT could compete with ERC from a QALE perspective.

Conclusions

This simulation study demonstrated that the current recommendations regarding clinically meaningful outcomes for single‐arm trials evaluating the efficacy of NT in BCG‐unresponsive NMIBC may be too low. Based on our quantitative approach, we propose increasing these thresholds to at least 45%‐55% at 6 months and 35% at 18‐24 months (complete response rates/recurrence‐free survival) to promote the development of clinically truly meaningful NT.
Consider the benefits of Empowerment Self Defense for your campus
Authors: Santovec Mary Lou
Published: March 2020

A Canadian study of 451 first‐year college women on three college campuses saw a 46% reduction in rape and a 63% drop in attempted rape. The technique behind those results is Empowerment Self Defense. First created in the 1970s by a group of women, the technique is composed of five steps: think, yell, run, fight, and tell.
Targeted inhibition of ACK1 can inhibit the proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma cells through the PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway
Authors: Wang Bin , Song Kai , Chen Lihong , Su Hongying , Gao Lingyun , Liu Jingfeng , Huang Aimin
Published: March 2020

Activated Cdc42‐associated kinase 1 (ACK1) expression is upregulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) tissues and other tumour tissues. However, the function and regulatory mechanism of ACK1 in HCC remains unclear. In this study, the expression of pTyr284‐ACK1, pSer473‐AKT and PTEN in HCC was detected by immunohistochemistry, and its clinicopathological significance was analysed. Then, ACK1‐targeted small molecule inhibitors AIM‐100 and Dasatinib were used to treat cells SK‐Hep‐1 and HepG2, and changes in activity and biological behaviours of PTEN/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway were observed. The results showed that pTyr284‐ACK1 protein was highly expressed in HCC tissues and was related to the poor prognosis of patients; the expression of pTyr284‐ACK1 protein was positively correlated with pSer473‐AKT and negatively correlated with PTEN. In addition, after treatment either with AIM‐100 or Dasatinib, both proliferation of two cells and migration, invasion of SK‐Hep‐1 cells were all significantly inhibited. Meanwhile, ACK1, pTyr284‐ACK1, pSer473‐AKT, mTOR and EGFR were down‐regulated; PTEN was up‐regulated when analysed by western‐blot in SK‐Hep‐1 cells. These results demonstrated that ACK1 may promote HCC development via PTEN/AKT/mTOR pathway. Targeted inhibition of ACK1 may be a novel therapeutic strategy for HCC.

Significance of the study

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumour with high mortality. Our study showed that ACK1 and pTyr284‐ACK1 are highly expressed in HCC and may promote HCC development through the PTEN/AKT/mTOR signalling pathway. Targeted inhibition of ACK1 expression with small inhibitors AIM‐100 and Dasatinib may weaken tumour cells ability of proliferation, migration and invasion. Our results suggested that downregulation of ACK1 may be a potential therapeutic strategy for HCC.
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) involvement in epithelial‐derived cancers and its current antibody‐based immunotherapies
Authors: London Max , Gallo Eugenio
Published: March 2020

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a transmembrane glycoprotein that is part of the family of tyrosine kinase receptors. The binding of EGFR to its cognate ligands leads to its autophosphorylation and subsequent activation of the signal transduction pathways involved in regulating cellular proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Accordingly, this receptor carries out both redundant and restricted functions in the germline development of mammals and in the maintenance of various adult tissues. Correspondingly, the loss of EGFR regulation results in many human diseases, with the most notable cancer. This receptor is overexpressed and/or mutated in multiple epithelial‐derived tumors, and associated with poor prognosis and survival in cancer patients. Here, we discuss in detail the role of EGFR in specific epithelial‐derived cancer pathologies; these include lung cancer, colorectal cancer, and squamous cell carcinomas. The development of multiple anticancer agents against EGFR diminished the progression and metastasis of tumors. Some of the most versatile therapeutic anti‐EGFR agents include the monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), demonstrating success in clinical settings when used in combination with cytotoxic treatments, such as chemotherapy and/or radiation. We thus discuss the development and application of two of the most notable therapeutic mAbs, cetuximab, and panitumumab, currently utilized in various EGFR‐related epithelial cancers.
An unusual displacement of the cervical plate to the inner surface of the hypopharynx
Authors: Alizadeh Reza , Aghsaeifard Ziba , Marzbanrad Zahra , Marzban‐Rad Saeid
Published: March 2020

Unlocking and penetration of the screws and displacement or breakage of the plates are some commonly reported complications associated with the cervical implants. It is imperative to provide immediate surgical intervention along with a complete workup. Timely diagnosis and management can reduce further complications and morbidities.
Distinctive Bimetallic Oxides for Enhanced Catalytic Toluene Combustion: Insights into the Tunable Fabrication of Mn−Ce Hollow Structure
Authors: Li Lei , Zhang Changyu , Yan Jinlong , Wang Dong , Peng Yue , Li Junhua , Crittenden John
Published: March 2020

The hollow structured Mn−Ce binary catalysts were facilely prepared utilizing carbon microsphere as templates. Based on acid/alkali‐pretreatment of the carbon templates, the Mn−Ce shell structure and surface components were facilely. The MnCe−OH catalyst, obtained from the alkali‐treated carbon sphere, showed the highest catalytic performance for toluene combustion with T90 (the temperature for 90 % toluene conversion) of 237 °C at a space velocity of 36,000 mL/(g ⋅ h). The according specific rate is 4.8*10−9 mol/(m2 ⋅ s) and the lower active energy value is 98.9 kJ/mol. With the aid of various characterizations, it indicates that the thinner and porous shell should accounted for the enhanced activity, which provided enriched accessible active sites and enhanced mass transfer for reactants. The abundant surface‐active oxygen (48.8 %) and the interaction between Ce and Mn species also benefited the superior catalytic performance. Additionally, a possible reaction pathway was provided in terms of the in‐situ DRIFTS study, revealing that the toluene molecules transformed into aldehydic, then into benzoate species, and finally formed CO2 and H2O.
Three Coordinated Organoaluminum Cation for Rapid and Selective Cyanosilylation of Carbonyls under Solvent‐Free Conditions
Authors: Rawat Sandeep , Bhandari Mamta , Prashanth Billa , Singh Sanjay
Published: March 2020

The well‐defined three coordinated electronically unsaturated cationic organoaluminum complex [({(2,6‐iPr2C6H3N)P(Ph2)}2N)AlMe]+[MeB(C6F5)3]− (1), has been utilized to catalyze the cyanosilylation of aldehydes and ketones under mild and solvent‐free conditions. Moreover, catalyst 1 showed high chemoselective cyanosilylation of aldehydes over ketones, nitriles and olefins. The multinuclear NMR investigations revealed that cyanosilylation proceeds via Lewis adduct formation between 1 and TMSCN thereby activating TMSCN (Si‐CN bond) followed by nucleophilic attack of the carbonyl oxygen at the Si center of the activated silane and formation of the product.
Crystallization and Purification of 4,4′‐Diaminodiphenyl Ether
Authors: Chen Jianxin , Chen Fengjiang , Han Jian , Su Min , Liu Kaili , Li Yinhui , Wu Qing
Published: March 2020

The purification of 4,4′‐diaminodiphenyl ether (ODA) was investigated. ODA, which contained impurities, was sublimated and anti‐solvent (ethanol)‐crystallized in N‐dimethylformamide (DMF). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) results revealed that the sublimated crystal was basically identical with the pure ODA sample. The influence of different amounts of ethanol on particle size distribution was analyzed during anti‐solvent crystallization. The morphology of the ODA crystal was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The color of the sample enhanced from a brown powder to a colorless granular crystal. The purity of the sample could be increased from about 30 % to 87 %. With the operations of sublimation and anti‐solvent crystallization, the purity, crystal morphology, and particle size distribution of ODA were significantly improved.
Effect of Anti‐Encrustation Additives on Zirconium Molybdate Hydrate
Authors: Abe Risako , Hirasawa Izumi , Miyazaki Yasunori , Takeuchi Masayuki
Published: March 2020

Anti‐encrustation additives were mainly investigated in nitric acid solution with zirconium (Zr), molybdenum (Mo), and tellurium (Te) to prevent the encrustation of zirconium molybdate hydrate (ZMH). The ZMH generated by reaction crystallization of Mo and Zr as main fission products has a high adhesion property in spent nuclear fuel reprocessing. In addition, it is reported that Te, which is also one of the fission products, precipitates together with ZMH. Encrustation of precipitates containing Te was effectively prevented by adding molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) crystals as an anti‐encrustation reagent. The encrustation amount was found to be larger than that under the condition of only Zr and Mo without Te. Consequently, it was suggested that the high adhesion property of Te affected the encrustation amount of ZMH.
Phosphorus‐Functionalized Fe2VO4/Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Mesoporous Nanowires with Exceptional Lithium Storage Performance
Authors: Tao Yuanxue , Yang Nan , Liang Chennan , Huang Dekang , Wang Pei , Cao Feifei , Luo Yanzhu , Chen Hao
Published: March 2020

The binary transition metal oxides have attracted great attention because of their considerable energy and power densities. However, they suffer from low reaction kinetics and large volume change, limiting their practical energy applications. The construction of a mesoporous structure with a large surface area, the development of a carbon matrix, as well as heteroatom doping can effectively overcome the above challenges. Herein, the synthesis of phosphorous‐containing Fe2VO4/nitrogen‐doped carbon mesoporous nanowires (P‐Fe2VO4/NCMNWs) is reported. In this unique structure, the atomic‐level P‐doping could increase the conductivity of Fe2VO4 by reducing its band gap, which is confirmed by DFT calculations. Furthermore, the phosphorus can covalently “bridge” the carbon layer and Fe2VO4 through P−C and Fe−O−P bondings. As a result, this anode material exhibits a high capacity (1002 mA h g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 after 250 cycles), excellent rate performance (448 mA h g−1 at 10 A g−1), and prominent long‐term cycling stability (533 mA h g−1 at 5 A g−1 after 500 cycles, 364 mA h g−1 at 10 A g−1 after 1000 cycles). All of these attractive features make the P‐Fe2VO4/NCMNWs a promising electrode material for high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries.
The Coordination Behaviour of CuI Photosensitizers Bearing Multidentate Ligands Investigated by X‐ray Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Rentschler Martin , Iglesias Sirma , Schmid Marie‐Ann , Liu Cunming , Tschierlei Stefanie , Frey Wolfgang , Zhang Xiaoyi , Karnahl Michael , Moonshiram Dooshaye
Published: March 2020

A systematic series of four novel homo‐ and heteroleptic CuI photosensitizers based on tetradentate 1,10‐phenanthroline ligands of the type X^N^N^X containing two additional donor moieties in the 2,9‐position (X=SMe or OMe) were designed. Their solid‐state structures were assessed by X‐ray diffraction. Cyclic voltammetry, UV‐vis absorption, emission and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy were then used to determine their electrochemical, photophysical and structural features in solution. Following, time‐resolved X‐ray absorption spectroscopy in the picosecond time scale, coupled with time‐dependent density functional theory calculations, provided in‐depth information on the excited state electron configurations. For the first time, a significant shortening of the Cu−X distance and a change in the coordination mode to a pentacoordinated geometry is shown in the excited states of the two homoleptic complexes. These findings are important with respect to a precise understanding of the excited state structures and a further stabilization of this type of photosensitizers.
Exfoliation of 2D Materials for Energy and Environmental Applications
Authors: Le Thanh‐Hai , Oh Yuree , Kim Hyungwoo , Yoon Hyeonseok
Published: March 2020

The fascinating properties of single‐layer graphene isolated by mechanical exfoliation have inspired extensive research efforts toward two‐dimensional (2D) materials. Layered compounds serve as precursors for atomically thin 2D materials (briefly, 2D nanomaterials) owing to their strong intraplane chemical bonding but weak interplane van der Waals interactions. There are newly emerging 2D materials beyond graphene, and it is becoming increasingly important to develop cost‐effective, scalable methods for producing 2D nanomaterials with controlled microstructures and properties. The variety of developed synthetic techniques can be categorized into two classes: bottom‐up and top‐down approaches. Of top‐down approaches, the exfoliation of bulk 2D materials into single or few layers is the most common. This review highlights chemical and physical exfoliation methods that allow for the production of 2D nanomaterials in large quantities. In addition, remarkable examples of utilizing exfoliated 2D nanomaterials in energy and environmental applications are introduced.
The utilization and utility of immunostains in body fluid cytology
Authors: Alshaikh Safa , Lapadat Razvan , Atieh Mohammed K. , Mehrotra Swati , Barkan Güliz A. , Wojcik Eva M. , Pambuccian Stefan E.
Published: March 2020

Background

Body fluid cytology (BFC) is an important tool in the diagnosis and staging of malignancy and is aided by the judicious use of immunohistochemistry (IHC). The aim of this study was to determine the usage rates of IHC stains in BFC, their type and indications, and their diagnostic impact. We also attempted to estimate the optimal rate of IHC use in BFC by comparing the entire laboratory's and each individual cytopathologist's IHC use rates with their respective indeterminate and malignant diagnosis rates.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of IHC stain use in BFC during a 5.5‐year interval (2013‐2018) and determined the laboratory's and each individual cytopathologist's IHC usage patterns according to the final diagnosis, site, and indications for their use.

Results

A total of 477 out of 4144 (11.5%) BFC cases had 2128 individual immunostains performed, with an average of 4.5 immunostains per case. Individual cytopathologists used IHC stains on 6.7% to 22% of their BFC cases. Pathologists with higher rates of IHC stain use than the laboratory's mean were less experienced and had higher rates of indeterminate but not of malignant diagnoses. The most common indication for the use of IHC stains was differentiating mesothelial from malignant cells. MOC31, calretinin, Ber‐EP4, CD68, and D2‐40 were the most commonly used of the 67 different IHC stains used in BFC.

Conclusions

The laboratory's mean may represent the optimal IHC use rate, as higher IHC use rates did not lead to more diagnostic certainty or higher pickup rates of malignant cells.
Crack Formation on Crystalline Bismuth Oxychloride Thin Square Sheets by Using a Wet‐Chemical Method
Authors: Yi Ronghua , Wang Yaoli , Zhou Xu , Li Zhuoyao , Zhang Chengyu , He Chengyu , Li Hai , Gao Yongqian , Huang Xiao , Lu Gang
Published: March 2020

The morphology of nanocrystals is crucial in modulating their properties including optical, chemical and catalytic ones. For the intensively studied sheet‐like structures, it is also important to engineer their detailed nanostructures on sheet surfaces. In this work, micron‐sized bismuth oxychloride (BiOCl) thin square sheets in tetragonal matlockite‐like phase and the corner‐truncated ones were successfully synthesized by using a simple wet‐chemical method. These square sheets could be partially etched, forming surface cracks with the size and density easily tuned. Two different types of cracks were observed on the surfaces of the corner un‐truncated and truncated BiOCl square sheets. Surprisingly, radial cracks formed on the corner‐truncated BiOCl sheets, which is attributed to the existence of physical stress during the etching and is highly related to the original nanostructure of the BiOCl sheets. This work provides a wet‐chemical method for engineering surface cracks, especially radial cracks, on the surfaces of BiOCl nanosheets, which may be expanded to surface engineering of other nanosheets and will show a great potential in various fields.
Wireworms: Resurgence in the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Ehmke Tanner
Published: March 2020

Wireworms were once a thing of the past in the Pacific Northwest but that changed in 2006 when the USEPA decided not to renew the registration of Lindane, an insecticide seed treatment that had virtually eliminated crop losses to wireworms. Picking up the mantle on wireworm research has been a learning curve, but new research is arming farmers and their CCAs to better manage the pest with new tools and cultural practices. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Integrated Pest Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://www.certifiedcropadviser.org/education/classroom/classes/772.
Iron Availability and Management Considerations: A 4R Approach
Authors: Jones John D.
Published: March 2020

Though iron deficiency symptoms can be visually apparent in most crops, the underlying reasoning for reduced uptake or availability can be more complex. Dedicating time to understanding the soil‐plant environment in each distinctive soil where you suspect iron to be limiting productivity is well worth it. Earn 1 CEU in Nutrient Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://www.certifiedcropadviser.org/education/classroom/classes/774.
Genomic characterization of Ugandan smallholder farmer‐preferred cassava varieties
Authors: Iragaba Paula , Kawuki Robert S. , Bauchet Guillaume , Ramu Punna , Tufan Hale A. , Earle Elizabeth D. , Gore Michael A. , Wolfe Marnin
Published: March 2020

Understanding the genetic relationships among farmer‐preferred cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) varieties is indispensable to genetic improvement efforts. In this study, we present a genetic analysis of 547 samples of cassava grown by 192 smallholder farmers, which were sampled at random within four districts in Uganda. We genotyped these samples at 287,952 single nucleotide polymorphisms using genotyping‐by‐sequencing and co‐analyzed them with 349 cassava samples from the national breeding program in Uganda. The samples collected from smallholders consisted of 86 genetically unique varieties, as assessed using a genetic distance‐based approach. Of these varieties, most were cultivated in only one district (30 in Kibaale, 19 in Masindi, 14 in Arua, and three in Apac), and only three were cultivated across all districts. The genetic differentiation we observed among farming districts in Uganda (mean fixation index [FST] = .003) is similar to divergence observed within other countries. Despite the fact that none of the breeding lines were directly observed in farmer fields, genetic divergence between the populations was low (FST = .020). Interestingly, we detected the presence of introgressions from the wild relative M. glaziovii Müll. Arg. on chromosomes 1 and 4, which implies ancestry with cassava breeding lines. Given the apparently similar pool of alleles in the breeding germplasm, it is likely that breeders have the raw genetic material they require to match the farmer‐preferred trait combinations necessary for adoption. Our study highlights the importance of understanding the genetic makeup of cassava currently grown by smallholder farmers and relative to that of plant breeding germplasm.
Factors and outcomes associated with discontinuation of basal insulin therapy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zhang Puhong , Zhang Heng , Li Xian , Chen Minyuan , Wang Du , Ji Linong
Published: March 2020

Objectives

To assess treatment discontinuation, associated factors and outcomes after initiating basal insulin (BI) among Chinese insulin‐naïve patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who had previously uncontrolled hyperglycaemia on OADs.

Patients

Insulin‐naïve patients with T2DM who had uncontrolled hyperglycaemia (HbA1c ≥7%) by OADs and were willing to initiate BI treatment were enrolled from 209 secondary and tertiary hospitals in eight geographical regions in China.

Design

Each participant was interviewed at baseline, 3 and 6 months to collect study information. Patients with at least one visit during follow‐up were included in the analyses. BI discontinuation was defined by a question asking whether the patient discontinued BI therapy at 3 or 6 months. Analyses were conducted to identify baseline factors associated with BI discontinuation and to estimate the association between insulin treatment discontinuation and patients' clinical outcomes at 6 months.

Results

Of 17 858 patients, 25.8% discontinued basal insulin therapy within 6 months after initiation, and nearly two‐thirds doing so within the first 3 months. Among patients discontinued basal insulin, 70.2% stopped all insulin therapy; 25.9% switched to premixed insulin and 3.8% switched to bolus only. Three most common reasons for BI discontinuation reported by patients were being unwilling to persist basal insulin without specific reasons (46.8%), reducing the frequency of daily injection (23.5%) and medical affordability (15.1%). Factors significantly associated with BI discontinuation were hospital level, patient recruitment setting, age, education level, out‐of‐pocket ratio, BMI, diabetes duration, self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), numbers of OADs, BI type and insulin regimen. Compared with discontinuers, patients continued BI therapy had higher FPG (46.4% vs 28.8%) and HbA1c (42.3% vs 36.5%) control rate.

Conclusion

Among patients with T2DM who initiated BI therapy due to uncontrolled hyperglycaemia by OADs, the proportion of insulin discontinuation was high within 6 months. Further study is needed to understand the reason behind the BI discontinuation.
The TpxM Core in Csp3–H Bond Functionalization Reactions: Comparing Carbene, Nitrene, and Oxo Insertion Processes (Tpx = Scorpionate Ligand; M = Cu, Ag)
Authors: Díaz‐Requejo M. Mar , Pérez Pedro J.
Published: March 2020

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Pedro J. Pérez from Universidad de Huelva, Spain. The cover image shows the three metal intermediates (carbene, nitrene, oxo) relevant to the group 11 metal‐catalyzed functionalization of carbon–hydrogen bonds of alkanes.
Retention of Eucalyptol, a Natural Volatile Insecticide, in Delivery Systems Based on Hydroxypropyl‐β‐Cyclodextrin and Liposomes
Authors: Gharib Riham , Jemâa Jouda Mediouni Ben , Charcosset Catherine , Fourmentin Sophie , Greige‐Gerges Hélène
Published: March 2020

Eucalyptol (Euc) is a natural monoterpene with insecticide effects. Being highly volatile and sensitive to ambient conditions, its encapsulation would enlarge its application. Euc‐loaded conventional liposomes (CL), cyclodextrin/drug inclusion complex, and drug‐in‐cyclodextrin‐in‐liposomes (DCL) are prepared to protect Euc from degradation, reduce its evaporation, and provide its controlled release. The liposomal suspension is freeze‐dried using hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (HP‐β‐CD) as cryoprotectant. The liposomes are characterized before and after freeze‐drying. The effect of Euc on the fluidity of liposomal membrane is also examined. A release study of Euc from delivery systems, in powder and reconstituted forms, is performed by multiple head extraction at 60 °C after 6 months of storage at 4 °C. CL and DCL suspensions are homogeneous, show nanometric vesicles size, spherical shape, and negative surface charge before and after freeze‐drying. Moreover, HP‐β‐CD does not affect the fluidity of liposomes. CL formulations present a weak encapsulation for Euc. The loading capacity of eucalyptol in DCL is 38 times higher than that in CL formulation. In addition, freeze‐dried DCL and HP‐β‐CD/Euc inclusion complex show a higher retention of eucalyptol than CL delivery system. Both carrier systems HP‐β‐CD/Euc and Euc‐loaded DCL decrease Euc evaporation and improve its retention.

Practical Applications: Eucalyptol is a natural insecticide. It is highly volatile and poorly soluble in water. To enlarge its application, its encapsulation in three delivery systems (conventional liposomes, cyclodextrin/drug inclusion complex, combined system composed of cyclodextrin inclusion complex and liposome) is studied. In this paper it is proved that cyclodextrin/eucalyptol inclusion complex and eucalyptol‐in‐cyclodextrin‐in‐liposome are effective delivery systems for encalyptol encapsulation, retention, and release.