bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanistic Investigation into Dynamic Function of Third Component Incorporated in Ternary Near‐Infrared Nonfullerene Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Zhuoyan , Ji Jingjing , Lin Weihua , Yao Yao , Zheng Kaibo , Liang Ziqi
Published: May 2020

Organic solar cells (OSCs) consisting of an ultralow‐bandgap nonfullerene acceptor (NFA) with an optical absorption edge that extends to the near‐infrared (NIR) region are of vital interest to semitransparent and tandem devices. However, huge energy‐loss related to inefficient charge dissociation hinders their further development. The critical issues of charge separation as exemplified in NIR‐NFA OSCs based on the paradigm blend of PTB7–Th donor (D) and IEICO–4F acceptor (A) are revealed here. These studies corroborate efficient charge transfer between D and A, accompanied by geminate recombination of photo‐excited charge carriers. Two key factors restricting charge separation are unveiled as the connection discontinuity of individual phases in the blend and long‐lived interfacial charge‐transfer states (CTS). By incorporation of a third‐component of benchmark ITIC or PC71BM with various molar ratios, these two issues are well‐resolved accordingly, yet in distinctly influencing mechanisms. ITIC molecules modulate film morphology to create more continuous paths for charge transportation, whereas PC71BM diminishes CTS and enhances electron transfer at the D/A interfaces. Consequently, the optimal untreated ternary OSCs comprising 0.3 wt% ITIC and 0.1 wt% PC71BM in the blend deliver higher JSC values of 21.9 and 25.4 mA cm‐2, and hence increased PCE of 10.2% and 10.6%, respectively.
Liquid Metal Based Island‐Bridge Architectures for All Printed Stretchable Electrochemical Devices
Authors: Silva Cristian A. , lv Jian , Yin Lu , Jeerapan Itthipon , Innocenzi Gabriel , Soto Fernando , Ha Young‐Geun , Wang Joseph
Published: May 2020

The adoption of epidermal electronics into everyday life requires new design and fabrication paradigms, transitioning away from traditional rigid, bulky electronics towards soft devices that adapt with high intimacy to the human body. Here, a new strategy is reported for fabricating achieving highly stretchable “island‐bridge” (IB) electrochemical devices based on thick‐film printing process involving merging the deterministic IB architecture with stress‐enduring composite silver (Ag) inks based on eutectic gallium‐indium particles (EGaInPs) as dynamic electrical anchors within the inside the percolated network. The fabrication of free‐standing soft Ag‐EGaInPs‐based serpentine “bridges” enables the printed microstructures to maintain mechanical and electrical properties under an extreme (≈800%) strain. Coupling these highly stretchable “bridges” with rigid multifunctional “island” electrodes allows the realization of electrochemical devices that can sustain high mechanical deformation while displaying an extremely attractive and stable electrochemical performance. The advantages and practical utility of the new printed Ag‐liquid metal‐based island‐bridge designs are discussed and illustrated using a wearable biofuel cell. Such new scalable and tunable fabrication strategy will allow to incorporate a wide range of materials into a single device towards a wide range of applications in wearable electronics.
Broadband Single‐Mode Hybrid Photonic Crystal Waveguides for Terahertz Integration on a Chip
Authors: Li Haisu , Low Mei Xian , Ako Rajour Tanyi , Bhaskaran Madhu , Sriram Sharath , Withayachumnankul Withawat , Kuhlmey Boris T. , Atakaramians Shaghik
Published: May 2020

Broadband, low‐loss, low‐dispersion propagation of terahertz pulses in compact waveguide chips is indispensable for terahertz integration. Conventional 2D photonic crystals (PCs) based terahertz waveguides are either all‐metallic or all‐dielectric, having either high propagation losses due to the Ohmic loss of metal, or a narrow transmission bandwidth restricted by the range of single‐mode operation in a frequency range defined by the PC bandgap, respectively. To address this problem, a hybrid (metal/dielectric) terahertz waveguide chip is developed, where the guided mode is completely confined by parallel gold plates and silicon PCs in vertical and lateral directions, respectively. A unique multiwafer silicon‐based fabrication process, including gold–silicon eutectic bonding, micropatterning, and Bosch silicon etching, is employed to achieve the self‐supporting hybrid structure. Theoretical and experimental investigations demonstrate that the hybrid waveguide supports a single‐mode transmission covering 0.367–0.411 THz (bandwidth of 44 GHz, over twice wider than that of all‐silicon PC waveguides) with low loss (below 0.05 dB mm−1) and low group velocity dispersion (from −8.4 to −0.8 ps THz−1 mm−1). This work enables more compact, wideband terahertz waveguides and auxiliary functional components that are integratable in chips toward ultra‐high‐density integrated terahertz devices in particular in the field of wireless communications.
Multifunctional Beam Manipulation at Telecommunication Wavelengths Enabled by an All‐Dielectric Metasurface Doublet
Authors: Zhou Changyi , Lee Woo‐Bin , Park Chul‐Soon , Gao Song , Choi Duk‐Yong , Lee Sang‐Shin
Published: May 2020

Multifunctional metasurfaces, which are planar devices featuring diverse functionalities, have attracted tremendous attention as they enable highly dense integration and miniaturization of photonic devices. Previous approaches based on spatial/spectral multiplexing of meta‐atoms on single metasurfaces are supposed to be inevitably limited in their functional diversity. An additional degree of freedom for design, achieved by cascading multiple metasurfaces into a single metasystem, promotes new combinations of functions that cannot be achieved with single‐layered metasurfaces. In this study, an all‐dielectric metasurface doublet (MD) is developed and implemented by vertically concatenating two arrays of rectangular nanoresonators on either side of a quartz substrate, in which distinct phase profiles are encoded for transverse magnetic and transverse electric polarized light. Multifunctional beam manipulation with concurrent increased beam deflection, beam reduction, and polarizing beam splitting is achieved at telecommunication wavelengths near 1550 nm. The MD is accurately created via lithographical nanofabrication, thus eliminating the extremely demanding post‐fabrication alignment. The proposed multifunctional metasurface is highly anticipated to expedite the development of advanced technologies for large‐scale photonic integration, optical metrology, light detection and ranging, spectroscopy, and optical processing.
Synthesis, physico‐chemical characterization and bioevaluation of Ni(II), Pd(II), and Pt(II) complexes with 1‐(o‐tolyl)biguanide: Antimicrobial and antitumor studies
Authors: Nuţă Ileana , Badea Mihaela , Chifiriuc Mariana Carmen , Bleotu Coralia , Popa Marcela , Daniliuc Constantin‐Gabriel , Olar Rodica
Published: May 2020

New complexes of type [M(tbg)2]Cl2 [tbg = 1‐(o‐tolyl)biguanide; M = Ni(II), Pd(II), and Pt(II)] were synthesized and characterized to develop new biologically active compounds. The features of the complexes were assigned from microanalytical and thermal data. The NMR, FT‐IR, and UV‐Vis spectra were established by comparison with HtbgCl. All complexes exhibit a square‐planar geometry resulting from the chelating behavior of tbg. The HtbgCl and [Ni(tbg)2]Cl2 complexes were fully characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. The HtbgCl species crystallize in the monoclinic C2/c spatial group, while the Ni(II) complex adopts an orthorhombic Pna21 spatial group. The structure is stabilized by a complex hydrogen bonds network. The in vitro antimicrobial assays revealed improved antimicrobial activity for complexes in comparison with the ligand against both planktonic and biofilm embedded microbial cells. The most efficient compound, showing the largest spectrum of antimicrobial activity, including Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, as well as fungal strains, in both planktonic and biofilm growth states was the Pd(II) complex, followed by the Pt(II) complex. The Pt(II) compound exhibited the most significant antiproliferative activity on the human cervical cancer SiHa cell line, inducing a cell cycle arrest in the G2/M phase.
“Forever young”—Postnatal growth inhibition of the turbinal skeleton in brachycephalic dog breeds (Canis lupus familiaris)
Authors: Wagner Franziska , Ruf Irina
Published: May 2020

In short snouted (brachycephalic) dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), several genetic mutations cause postnatal growth inhibition of the viscerocranium. Thus, for example, the pug keeps a snub nose like that observed in neonate dogs in general. However, little is known how far intranasal structures like the turbinal skeleton are also affected. In the present study, we provide the first detailed morphological and morphometric analyses on the turbinal skeleton of pug, Japanese chin, pekingese, King Charles spaniel, and Cavalier. In order to elucidate how a shortened snout affects turbinal shape, size, and density, our sample covers different degrees of brachycephaly. Macerated skulls of 1 juvenile and 17 adult individuals were investigated by μCT and virtual 3D reconstructions. In addition, histological serial sections of two prenatal and one neonate whippet were taken into account. All investigated postnatal stages show three frontoturbinals and three ethmoturbinals similar to longer snouted breeds, whereas the number of interturbinals is reduced. The shape of the entire turbinal skeleton simplifies with decreasing snout length, that is, within a minimized nasal cavity the turbinals decrease proportionally in surface area and surface density due to a looser arrangement. We interpret these apparent reductions as a result of spatial constraint which affects postnatal appositional bone growth and the position of the turbinals inside the nasal cavity. The turbinal skeleton of brachycephalic dogs arrests at an early ontogenetic stage, corresponding with previous studies on the dermal bones. Hence, we assume an association between the growth of intranasal structures and facial elongation.
Hepatocellular carcinoma arising from hepatic adenoma in a young woman
Authors: Yacoub Haythem , Kchir Hela , Cherif Dhouha , Hassine Hajer , Haouet Slim , Ayari Asma , Mizouni Habiba , Mannai Saber , Khalfallah Mohamed Tahar , Maamouri Nadia
Published: May 2020

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) arising from hepatic adenoma is an infrequent situation. Only a few cases were reported in the literature. We present a rare case of hepatocellular carcinoma arising from HA in a young woman with no medication history of oral contraceptives. Surgical resection is the only available treatment.
Highly Elastic Slide‐Ring Hydrogel with Good Recovery as Stretchable Supercapacitor
Authors: Feng Li , Jia Shan‐Shan , Chen Yong , Liu Yu
Published: May 2020

As a new material with excellent mechanical properties and good stability, slide‐ring gels have attracted attention and research. However, they cannot be widely used due to their relatively complicated synthesis. Herein, we use 6‐acrylamidomethylether‐modified α‐cyclodextrin (αCDAAmMe) and PEG20000 diacrylate (PEG20000DA) to construct a polypseudorotaxane. Then, the polypseudorotaxane reacts with acrylamide via a photo‐initiated polymerization in situ to conveniently obtain a slide‐ring hydrogel with good elastic property and high recovery property. The hydrogel can be easily stretched to 22.5 times of its original length but recovered rapidly and almost reversibly. These results enable the application of hydrogel to make an intrinsically stretchable and compressible supercapacitor after doping ions and the adhesion of commercially available carbon nanotube (CNT) paper as electrodes, giving the ionic conductivity of 17.0 mS cm−1 (comparable to that of the commercial PVA/H3PO4 electrolyte) and the capacitance of 0.87 μF cm−2 (at the scan speed of 100 mV s−1), and its capacitance can be further enhanced under stretching.
Treating the SARS‐CoV‐2–positive patient with cancer: A proposal for a pragmatic and transparent ethical process
Authors: Perni Subha , Milligan Michael G. , Saraf Anurag , Vivenzio Todd , Marques Amy , Baker Meghan A. , Kosak Tara , Bartlett Sarah , Physic Michelle A. , Batchelder Monica R. , McBride Sean , Bredfeldt Jeremy , Cail Daniel W. , Kearney Meghan C. , Whitehouse Colleen , Orio Peter , Walsh Gerard , Haas‐Kogan Daphne A. , Martin Neil E.
Published: May 2020

The treatment of patients with cancer who test positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) poses unique challenges. In this commentary, the authors describe the ethical rationale and implementation details for the creation of a novel, multidisciplinary treatment prioritization committee, including physicians, frontline staff, an ethicist, and an infectious disease expert. Organizational obligations to health care workers also are discussed. The treatment prioritization committee sets a threshold of acceptable harm to patients from decreased cancer control that is justified to reduce risk to staff. The creation of an ethical, consistent, and transparent decision‐making process involving such frontline stakeholders is essential as departments across the country are faced with decisions regarding the treatment of SARS‐CoV‐2–positive patients with cancer.
Comparable cancer‐relevant mutation profiles in synchronous ductal carcinoma in situ and invasive breast cancer
Authors: Bergholtz Helga , Kumar Surendra , Wärnberg Fredrik , Lüders Torben , Kristensen Vessela , Sørlie Therese
Published: May 2020

Background

Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) comprises a diverse group of preinvasive lesions in the breast and poses a considerable clinical challenge due to lack of markers of progression. Genomic alterations are to a large extent similar in DCIS and invasive carcinomas, although differences in copy number aberrations, gene expression patterns, and mutations exist. In mixed tumors with synchronous invasive breast cancer (IBC) and DCIS, it is still unclear to what extent invasive tumor cells are directly derived from the DCIS cells.

Aim

Our aim was to compare cancer‐relevant mutation profiles of different cellular compartments in mixed DCIS/IBC and pure DCIS tumors.

Methods and results

We performed targeted sequencing of 50 oncogenes in microdissected tissue from three different epithelial cell compartments (in situ, invasive, and normal adjacent epithelium) from 26 mixed breast carcinomas. In total, 44 tissue samples (19 invasive, 16 in situ, 9 normal) were subjected to sequencing using the Ion Torrent platform and the AmpliSeq Cancer Hotspot Panel v2. For comparison, 10 additional, pure DCIS lesions were sequenced.

Across all mixed samples, we detected 23 variants previously described in cancer. The most commonly affected genes were TP53, PIK3CA, and ERBB2. The PIK3CA:p.H1047R variant was found in nine samples from six patients. Most variants detected in invasive compartments were also found in the corresponding in situ cell compartment indicating a clonal relationship between the tumor stages. A lower frequency of variants were observed in pure DCIS lesions.

Conclusion

Similar mutation profiles between in situ and invasive cell compartments indicate a similar origin of the two tumor stages in mixed breast tumors. The lower number of potential driver variants found in pure DCIS compared with the in situ cell compartments of mixed tumors may imply that pure DCIS is captured earlier in the path of progression to invasive disease.
The Impact of AlN Templates on Strain Relaxation Mechanisms during the MOVPE Growth of UVB‐LED Structures
Authors: Knauer Arne , Mogilatenko Anna , Weinrich Jonas , Hagedorn Sylvia , Walde Sebastian , Kolbe Tim , Cancellara Leonardo , Weyers Markus
Published: May 2020

Strain relaxation mechanisms in AlGaN based light emitting diodes emitting in the ultraviolet B spectral range (UVB‐LEDs) grown on different AlN/sapphire templates are analyzed by combining in situ reflectivity and curvature data with transmission electron microscopy. In particular, the impact of dislocation density, surface morphology, and lattice constant of the AlN/sapphire templates is studied. For nonannealed AlN/templates with threading dislocation densities (TDDs) of 4 × 109 and 3 × 109 cm−2 and different surface morphologies strain relaxation takes place mostly by conventional ways, such as inclination of threading dislocation lines and formation of horizontal dislocation bands. In contrast, a TDD reduction down to 1 × 109 cm−2 as well as a reduction of the lattice constant of high temperature annealed AlN template leads to drastic changes in the structure of subsequently grown AlGaN layers, e.g., to transformation to helical dislocations and enhanced surface enlargement by formation of macrofacets. For the growth of strongly compressively strained AlGaN layers for UVB‐LEDs the relaxation mechanism is strongly influenced by the absolute values of TDD and the lattice constant of the AlN templates and is less influenced by their surface morphology.
Monensin inhibits proliferation, migration, and promotes apoptosis of breast cancer cells via downregulating UBA2
Authors: Gu Jiangtao , Huang Lan , Zhang Yunxia
Published: May 2020

Breast cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the epithelial tissue of the breast gland, the morbidity, and mortality of which continue to increase. Therefore, it is crucial to find new drugs to treat breast cancer. Monensin is a carrier antibiotic that has been reported to inhibit the growth of cancer cells; however, its impacts on breast cancer cells have not been reported. In this article, the cell survival rate was measured by CCK‐8. Colony formation assay was utilized to detect the level of cell proliferation. Transwell was used to measure the ability of cell invasion, and wound healing was used to measure the ability of cell migration. RT‐qPCR and western blot were, respectively, used to detect the expression of related genes and proteins. The level of apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. Cell transfection technique was used for overexpressing UBA2. We found that Monensin inhibited the proliferation and migration of breast cancer cells and inhibited the expression of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9. In addition, Monensin promoted the apoptosis accompanied by the increase of Bax, caspase3, caspase7, and caspase9 and the decreased of bcl‐2 of breast cancer cells. Monensin was also found to inhibit UBA2 expression in breast cancer cells. Subsequently, after overexpression of UBA2, the impacts of Monensin on proliferation, migration, and apoptosis of breast cancer cells was inhibited. In conclusion, Monensin can inhibit the proliferation and migration and activate apoptosis of breast cancer cells via downregulating the expression of UBA2.
Baseline cardiovascular risk assessment in cancer patients scheduled to receive cardiotoxic cancer therapies: a position statement and new risk assessment tools from the Cardio‐Oncology Study Group of the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology in collaboration with the International Cardio‐Oncology Society
Authors: Lyon Alexander R. , Dent Susan , Stanway Susannah , Earl Helena , Brezden‐Masley Christine , Cohen‐Solal Alain , Tocchetti Carlo G. , Moslehi Javid J. , Groarke John D. , Bergler‐Klein Jutta , Khoo Vincent , Tan Li Ling , Anker Markus S. , von Haehling Stephan , Maack Christoph , Pudil Radek , Barac Ana , Thavendiranathan Paaladinesh , Ky Bonnie , Neilan Tomas G. , Belenkov Yury , Rosen Stuart D. , Iakobishvili Zaza , Sverdlov Aaron L. , Hajjar Ludhmila A. , Macedo Ariane V.S. , Manisty Charlotte , Ciardiello Fortunato , Farmakis Dimitrios , de Boer Rudolf A. , Skouri Hadi , Suter Thomas M. , Cardinale Daniela , Witteles Ronald M. , Fradley Michael G. , Herrmann Joerg , Cornell Robert F. , Wechelaker Ashutosh , Mauro Michael J. , Milojkovic Dragana , de Lavallade Hugues , Ruschitzka Frank , Coats Andrew J.S. , Seferovic Petar M. , Chioncel Ovidiu , Thum Thomas , Bauersachs Johann , Andres M. Sol , Wright David J. , López‐Fernández Teresa , Plummer Chris , Lenihan Daniel
Published: May 2020

This position statement from the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology Cardio‐Oncology Study Group in collaboration with the International Cardio‐Oncology Society presents practical, easy‐to‐use and evidence‐based risk stratification tools for oncologists, haemato‐oncologists and cardiologists to use in their clinical practice to risk stratify oncology patients prior to receiving cancer therapies known to cause heart failure or other serious cardiovascular toxicities. Baseline risk stratification proformas are presented for oncology patients prior to receiving the following cancer therapies: anthracycline chemotherapy, HER2‐targeted therapies such as trastuzumab, vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors, second and third generation multi‐targeted kinase inhibitors for chronic myeloid leukaemia targeting BCR‐ABL, multiple myeloma therapies (proteasome inhibitors and immunomodulatory drugs), RAF and MEK inhibitors or androgen deprivation therapies. Applying these risk stratification proformas will allow clinicians to stratify cancer patients into low, medium, high and very high risk of cardiovascular complications prior to starting treatment, with the aim of improving personalised approaches to minimise the risk of cardiovascular toxicity from cancer therapies.
Electrochemical Amide Bond Formation from Benzaldehydes and Amines: Oxidation by Cathodic‐Generated Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Kurose Yuma , Imada Yasushi , Okada Yohei , Chiba Kazuhiro
Published: May 2020

Although amide bond formation from aldehydes and amines is a popular synthetic tool, most of the previously reported reactions depend on transition‐metal catalysts or expensive oxidants. We considered that a more environmentally benign and safer approach could be achieved by electrochemistry. Nineteen benzamide derivatives were obtained with this reaction. NMR studies, cyclic voltammetry (CV) investigations, and control experiments showed that the corresponding intermediate, a hemiaminal, was transformed into the amide by oxidation with hydrogen peroxide generated in situ by cathodic reduction of molecular oxygen.
The Elusive 1,4‐Diazabutatrienes: Lurking in the Shadows
Authors: Marin‐Luna Marta , Alajarin Mateo
Published: May 2020

Isocyanides are isomers of cyanides in which the terminal carbon atom can exist in a divalent state. Their ambivalent electronic nature as nucleophile or electrophile and wide reactivity make the isocyanide scaffold a valuable synthon for the synthesis of structurally complex molecules, in particular azacycles. Although they are known to polymerize easily, the dimerization of isocyanides affording head‐to‐head dimers, namely 1,4‐diazabutatrienes R1‐N=C=C=N–R1, has been scarcely explored. Nowadays the experimental isolation of this kind of heterocumulenes is still a challenge. In this minireview, covering a period of sixty years, we highlight the role of 1,4‐diazabutatienes as putative reaction intermediates in the homo‐ and heterodimerization of different types of isocyanides. Furthermore, we revise a set of reported reactions in which the formation of a transient 1,4‐diazabutatriene intermediate has not been proposed but could be considered as a plausible alternative.
Regioselectivity of Epoxide Ring‐Openings via SN2 Reactions Under Basic and Acidic Conditions
Authors: Hansen Thomas , Vermeeren Pascal , Haim Anissa , van Dorp Maarten J. H. , Codée Jeroen D. C. , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias , Hamlin Trevor A.
Published: May 2020

We have quantum chemically analyzed the ring‐opening reaction of the model non‐symmetrical epoxide 2,2‐dimethyloxirane under basic and acidic conditions using density functional theory at OLYP/TZ2P. For the first time, our combined activation strain and Kohn–Sham molecular orbital analysis approach have revealed the interplay of physical factors that control the regioselectivity of these chemical reactions. Ring‐opening under basic conditions occurs in a regime of strong interaction between the nucleophile (OH–) and the epoxide and the interaction is governed by the steric (Pauli) repulsion. The latter steers the attack preferentially towards the sterically less encumbered Cβ. Under acidic conditions, the interaction between the nucleophile (H2O) and the epoxide is weak and, now, the regioselectivity is governed by the activation strain. Protonation of the epoxide induces elongation of the weaker (CH3)2Cα–O bond, and effectively predistorts the substrate for the attack at the sterically more hindered side, which goes with a less destabilizing overall strain energy. Our quantitative analysis significantly builds on the widely accepted rationales behind the regioselectivity of these ring‐opening reactions and provide a concrete framework for understanding these indispensable textbook reactions.
Application of deep learning techniques in predicting motorcycle crash severity
Authors: Rezapour Mahdi , Nazneen Sahima , Ksaibati Khaled
Published: May 2020

Machine learning (ML) techniques play a crucial role in today's modern world. Over the last years, road traffic safety is one of the applications where ML‐methods have been successfully employed to prevent road users from being killed or seriously injured. A reliable data‐driven predictive model is essential for this purpose. This could be achieved by successfully applying an intelligent transportation system to identify a driver at a higher risk of crashes. This study investigates the capabilities of different deep learning techniques to predict motorcycle crash severity. This study is based on 2,430 motorcycle crashes in a mountainous area in the United States over a 10‐year period. Different deep networks (DNNs), including deep belief network, standard recurrent neural network (RNN), multilayer neural network, and single‐layer neural network, were considered and compared in terms of prediction accuracy of motorcycle crash severity. Before conducting any analysis, feature reduction was performed to identify the optimal number of variables to include in the models by minimizing the error rate. Different metrics including the area under the curve and confusion matrix were used to compare the different models. Although the analyses were conducted on a relatively small dataset, the results indicate that almost all the DNN models better perform in predicting the severity of motorcycle crashes, compared with the single layer neural network. Finally, the RNN outperforms the other three neural network models. A comprehensive discussion has been made about the methodological approach implemented in this study.
Metabolomic analyses of dry lemon slice during storage by NMR
Authors: Yu Limei , Liao Zhiqiang , Zhao Yupeng , Zeng Xiaofang , Yang Bao , Bai Weidong
Published: May 2020

Lemon is a fruit with delicious taste and attractive flavor, which has been widely accepted by people over the world. Dry lemon slice is a classical processed product of lemon. It is readily to be browning during storage. Which chemicals are responsible for the browning behavior remains unclear. Therefore, in this work, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy is used to analyze the metabolites changes in dry lemon slice during storage. Nineteen metabolites were identified and their related levels were statistically calculated by principal component analysis. The first principal components were represented by glutamic acid, α‐amino‐butyric acid, γ‐amino‐butyric acid, alanine, limonoid, citric acid, glutamine, and phosphocholine. The changes of browning degree during storage and its correlations with the levels of polyphenol, ascorbic acid, amino acid nitrogen, and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural were analyzed. The results indicated that Maillard reaction and oxidation of phenolics were two main processes contributing to the nonenzymatic browning during storage.
Regulatory function of microRNAs in microglia
Authors: Brites Dora
Published: May 2020

Microglia are CNS‐resident cells involved in immune surveillance and maintenance of intercellular homeostasis, while also contributing to neurologic pathologies. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small (~22 nucleotides) single‐stranded noncoding RNAs that participate in gene regulation at the post‐transcriptional level. miRNAs typically bind to the untranslated region (3′ UTR) of RNAs. It has been shown that miRNAs are important players in controlling inflammation and that their abnormal expression is linked to cancer and ageing, and to the onset and progression of neurodegenerative disease. Furthermore, miRNAs participate in intercellular trafficking. Thus, miRNAs are released from cells in a free form, bound to proteins or packaged within extracellular vesicles (EVs), exerting paracrine and long distance signaling. In this review, recent findings on the role of miRNAs as drivers of microglia phenotypic changes and their cotribution in neurological disease are addressed.
Taguchi‐Grey and ANOVA optimization techniques for engine performance with water in diesel emulsion fuels
Authors: Rai Ranjeet K. , Sahoo Rashmi R.
Published: May 2020

In the current study, optimization of the performance parameters like effective power (EP), effective power density (EPD), effective efficiency (EE), and different heat losses with respect to six engine control parameters, that is, emulsion fuel, compression ratio, equivalence ratio, engine speed, residual gas fraction, and fuel injection pressure with three levels of each, were performed. Taguchi method is used to design the L27 orthogonal array, using Minitab17 software. Optimization of individual performance parameters is performed with the signal to noise ratio curve, and Grey analysis is used to optimize the overall output performance parameters. Furthermore, an analysis of variance method is investigated to calculate the contribution percentage of control parameters. The theoretical analysis revealed that the overall optimum response of output parameters is found with 10% blend of water (A3), 18 compression ratio (B3), 0.8 equivalence ratio (C1), 2100 rpm engine speed (D3), 10% residual gas fraction (E3), and 100 kPa fuel injection pressure (F1). The EP and EPD are improved by 9.6% and 9.19%, respectively. Also, an average GRG for optimum response setting coincides with the average GRG value of the initial setting. The resulted optimization models are anticipated to be positive instruction for diesel engine operating parameters.
Testing for overconfidence statistically: A moment inequality approach
Authors: Jin Yanchun , Okui Ryo
Published: May 2020

We propose a moment inequality approach to test for the presence of overconfidence using data from ranking experiments where subjects rank themselves relative to other experimental participants. Although a ranking experiment is a typical way to collect data for the analysis of overconfidence, recent studies show that the resulting data may apparently indicate overconfidence even if participants are purely rational Bayesian updaters, in which case a set of inequalities hold. We apply state‐of‐the‐art tests of moment inequalities to test such a set of inequalities. We examine the data from a traditional ranking experiment as well as those from more sophisticated designs.
The price of forced attendance
Authors: Kapoor Sacha , Oosterveen Matthijs , Webbink Dinand
Published: May 2020

We draw on a discontinuity at a large university, wherein second‐year students with a low first‐year grade point average are allocated to a full year of forced, frequent, and regular attendance, to estimate the causal effect of additional structure on academic performance. We show that the policy increases student attendance but has no average effect on grades. The effects differ, however, depending on how course instructors handled unforced students, such that we observe significant grade decreases in courses where unforced students were given full discretion over their attendance. Our evidence suggests that grades decrease in these courses because the policy prevented forced students from picking their desired mix of study inputs.
Circular RNA_0001742 has potential to predict advanced tumor stage and poor survival profiles in tongue squamous cell carcinoma management
Authors: Yao Yuan , Bi Lei , Zhang Chunguang
Published: May 2020

Background

Circular RNA_0001742 (circ_0001742) has been reported to be upregulated in tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC) tissues/cells and regulate TSCC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. This study aimed to further investigate the clinical significance of circ_0001742 in TSCC management.

Methods

Totally, 146 TSCC patients underwent surgical treatment were reviewed. Their fresh‐frozen tumor tissue and adjacent tissue were acquired for detecting circ_0001742 expression via reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction. According to circ_0001742 expression in tumor tissue, all patients were classified as tumor circ_0001742 low (0%‐50% percentile) and high (50%‐100% percentile) patients, the latter were further divided into the tumor circ_0001742 high+ (50%‐75% percentile), high++ (75%‐90% percentile), and high+++ (90%‐100% percentile) patients, respectively.

Results

Circ_0001742 expression was increased in TSCC tumor tissue compared with adjacent tissue, and it presented good value in discriminating tumor tissue from adjacent tissue (area under the curve (AUC): 0.870, 95% CI: 0.831‐0.910). Tumor high circ_0001742 expression was associated with higher T stage, N stage, and TNM stage, but not age, gender, or pathological grade. Furthermore, OS was reduced in tumor circ_0001742 high patients compared with tumor circ_0001742 low patients; moreover, OS was the shortest in tumor circ_0001742 high+++ patients, followed by tumor circ_0001742 high++ patients and tumor circ_0001742 high+ patients, and the longest in tumor circ_0001742 low patients. In addition, multivariate Cox's regression analysis revealed that higher tumor circ_0001742 expression was an independent predictive factor for decreased OS.

Conclusion

Circ_0001742 serves as a potential biomarker for advanced tumor stage and poor survival in TSCC patients.
Effects of PAK4/LIMK1/Cofilin‐1 signaling pathway on proliferation, invasion, and migration of human osteosarcoma cells
Authors: Li Zhi‐Feng , Yao Yin‐Di , Zhao Yin‐Yin , Liu Yan , Liu Zhen‐Hua , Hu Pei , Zhu Zhuo‐Ran
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To explore the effects of PAK4/LIMK1/Cofilin‐1 signaling pathway on the proliferation, invasion, and migration of human osteosarcoma cells.

Methods

The expression of PAK4/LIMK1/Cofilin‐1 was detected by immunohistochemistry in osteosarcoma tissues. The osteosarcoma cell line MG63 was transfected and divided into Mock, Control siRNA, si‐PAK4, LIMK1, and si‐PAK4+LIMK1 groups. Then, the cellular biological features of MG63 cells were detected by CCK‐8, wound‐healing, Transwell, and flow cytometry methods. The relationship of PAK4 and LIMK1 was performed by co‐immunoprecipitation test, and the protein expression of PAK4/LIMK1/Cofilin‐1 was determined by Western blotting. Finally, the effect of PAK4 on the growth of osteosarcoma was verified by subcutaneous transplantation model of osteosarcoma in nude mice.

Results

The expression of PAK4/LIMK1/Cofilin‐1 in both osteosarcoma tissues and cells was up‐regulated. Positive PAK4, LIMK1, and Cofilin‐1 expressions in osteosarcoma were associated with the clinical stage, distant metastasis, and tumor grade. The MG63 cell viability, migration, and invasion, as well as the expression of PAK4, p‐LIMK/LIMK, and p‐Cofilin‐1/Cofilin‐1, were restrained by the knock down of PAK4 while it promoted apoptosis. PAK4 silencing also suppressed the growth of subcutaneous transplanted tumor in nude mice. Co‐immunocoprecipitation showed that LIMK and PAK4 protein can form complex in osteosarcoma cells. Besides, LIMK1 overexpression reversed the inhibition effect of PAK4 siRNA on the growth of osteosarcoma cells.

Conclusion

The expression of PAK4/LIMK1/Cofilin‐1 pathway in osteosarcoma tissues was up‐regulated. Thus, PAK4 inhibition may restrict the osteosarcoma cell proliferation, invasion, and migration but promote its apoptosis via decreasing the activity of LIMK1/Cofilin‐1 pathway.
Hepatic artery thrombosis following living donor liver transplantation: A 14‐year experience at a single center
Authors: Park Jangho , Kim Seong Hoon , Park Sang‐Jae
Published: May 2020

Background

Hepatic artery thrombosis (HAT) following liver transplantation is a serious complication that may lead to graft loss and ultimately death. Retransplantation and surgical recanalization for HAT have traditionally been the predominant methods of treatment. However, with the development of endovascular therapies, including percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, thrombolysis, and stent insertion, these methods are now mainly used because they allow prompt management.

Methods

From January 2005 to December 2018, 756 patients underwent liver transplantation at our institution, and 14 of those patients developed early HAT. All patients underwent endovascular arteriography immediately after the diagnosis of thrombosis. We retrospectively reviewed the 14 patients with HAT.

Results

Hepatic artery thrombosis following liver transplantation occurred in 14 patients (1.9%) within 1 month after transplantation. The final success rate of radiological intervention was 71.4% (n = 10). Of the four patients in whom intravenous procedures failed, two ultimately underwent retransplantation and one patient underwent surgical revision of the hepatic artery. Bleeding and rebound thrombosis after the intervention occurred in three patients (21.4%) and four patients (28.6%), respectively.

Conclusion

Endovascular procedures can be safe and provide prompt recovery in early HAT patients following liver transplantation to prevent graft loss and patient mortality despite the presence of hemorrhage and rebound thrombosis. Immediate endovascular procedure after the end of the transplantation is also necessary in intraoperatively developed HAT instead of several trials of arterial anastomoses to revascularization.
Difference in driver gene expression patterns between perihilar and peripheral intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma in an experimental mouse model
Authors: Adachi Toshiyuki , Adachi Tomohiko , Nakagaki Takehiro , Ono Shinichiro , Hidaka Masaaki , Ito Shinichiro , Kanetaka Kengo , Takatsuki Mitsuhisa , Nishida Noriyuki , Eguchi Susumu
Published: May 2020

Background

The prognosis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is based on tumor localization; however, the mechanism remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated the biological characteristics of perihilar and peripheral ICC in a mouse model.

Methods

The model was established by the administration of three oncogenic plasmids harboring myristoylated AKT, mutated human YAP, and pCMV‐Sleeping Beauty into the mice. The perihilar and peripheral ICC tumors that developed in the same mouse were assessed for the expression of cell adhesion factors and driver genes with immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR).

Results

The perihilar ICC tumors were irregularly shaped, whereas the peripheral tumors were mostly circular, similar to the differences found in patients. Alpha‐smooth muscle actin was strongly expressed in the perihilar tumors at 10 weeks, and vimentin expression was significantly up‐regulated in the perihilar ICC at 14 weeks. Fgfr2 level significantly increased in peripheral ICC at 10 weeks, whereas Idh2 expression was up‐regulated in perihilar ICC.

Conclusions

Despite diffuse injection of oncogenic plasmid, expression of driver genes and oncogenes in ICC tumor cells differs depending on the tumor localization, resulting in changes in epithelial‐mesenchymal transition, which may explain the different outcomes of patients with peripheral and perihilar ICC.
Synthesis and antioxidant activity study of carbothioamide and their corresponding thiazole derivatives
Authors: Asma  , Kalluraya Balakrishna , Manju Nagaraja , Sharath Chigahally Lakshmegowda
Published: May 2020

A novel series of 5‐(p‐(prop‐2‐ynyloxy)phenyl)‐3‐aryl‐4,5‐dihydropyrazole‐1‐carbothioamides 2a‐f and functionalized 2‐(3‐(aryl)‐5‐(4‐(prop‐2‐ynyloxy)phenyl)‐4,5‐dihydropyrazol‐1‐yl)‐4‐(3‐arylsydnone‐4‐yl)thiazoles 4a‐l were synthesized. The newly synthesized compounds were elucidated by analytical and spectral analysis. From the single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction method, it was observed that 2d crystallizes in a monoclinic crystal system with P21/n space group. The compounds 2d crystallized with cell parameters a = 15.0614 (19) Å, b = 6.0805 (7) Å, c = 20.903 (7) Å, α = 114.136 (6)o, β = 110.709 (14) o, γ = 96.553 (5) o, V = 1790.6 (4) Å3, Z = 4. From the Hirshfeld surface computational method, the major intercontacts present in these molecules are H…H (31.6%), C…H (18.2%) and S…H (12.2%), respectively. The newly synthesized compounds were tested for their ability to bleach 2,2'‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical using DPPH scavenging assay. Among the synthesized compounds carbothioamide compounds 2c (90.7%) and 2b (89.8%) exhibited good DPPH scavenging activity compared to the rest of the compounds. Most of the synthesized carbothioamide molecules (2a‐f) found to be potent compared to the thiazole derivatives (4a‐l).
Effects of cobalt and chromium ions on glycolytic flux and the stabilization of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α in macrophages in vitro
Authors: Salloum Zeina , Lehoux Eric A. , Harper Mary‐Ellen , Catelas Isabelle
Published: May 2020

Implant wear and corrosion have been associated with adverse tissue reactions that can lead to implant failure. Wear and corrosion products are therefore of great clinical concern. For example, Co2+ and Cr3+ originating from CoCrMo‐based implants have been shown to induce a proinflammatory response in macrophages in vitro. Previous studies have also shown that the polarization of macrophages by some proinflammatory stimuli is associated with a hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α)‐dependent metabolic shift from oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) towards glycolysis. However, the potential of Co2+ and Cr3+ to induce this metabolic shift, which plays a determining role in the proinflammatory response of macrophages, remains largely unexplored. We recently demonstrated that Co2+, but not Cr3+, increased oxidative stress and decreased OXPHOS in RAW 264.7 murine macrophages. In the present study, we analyzed the effects of Co2+ and Cr3+ on glycolytic flux and HIF‐1α stabilization in the same experimental model. Cells were exposed to 6 to 24 ppm Co2+ or 50 to 250 ppm Cr3+. Glycolytic flux was determined by analyzing extracellular flux and lactate production, while HIF‐1α stabilization was analyzed by immunoblotting. Results showed that Co2+, and to a lesser extent Cr3+, increased glycolytic flux; however, only Co2+ acted through HIF‐1α stabilization. Overall, these results, together with our previous results showing that Co2+ increases oxidative stress and decreases OXPHOS, suggest that Co2+ (but not Cr3+) can induce a HIF‐1α‐dependent metabolic shift from OXPHOS towards glycolysis in macrophages. This metabolic shift may play an early and pivotal role in the inflammatory response induced by Co2+ in the periprosthetic environment.
Facial nerve repair utilizing intraoperative repair strategies
Authors: Brown Brandon L. , Sandelski Morgan M. , Drejet Sarah M. , Runge Elizabeth M. , Shipchandler Taha Z. , Jones Kathryn J. , Walker Chandler L.
Published: May 2020

Objectives

To determine whether functional and anatomical outcomes following suture neurorrhaphy are improved by the addition of electrical stimulation with or without the addition of polyethylene glycol (PEG).

Methods

In a rat model of facial nerve injury, complete facial nerve transection and repair was performed via (a) suture neurorrhaphy alone, (b) neurorrhaphy with the addition of brief (30 minutes) intraoperative electrical stimulation, or (c) neurorrhaphy with the addition electrical stimulation and PEG. Functional recovery was assessed weekly for 16 weeks. At 16 weeks postoperatively, motoneuron survival, amount of regrowth, and specificity of regrowth were assessed by branch labeling and tissue analysis.

Results

The addition of brief intraoperative electrical stimulation improved all functional outcomes compared to suturing alone. The addition of PEG to electrical stimulation impaired this benefit. Motoneuron survival, amount of regrowth, and specificity of regrowth were unaltered at 16 weeks postoperative in all treatment groups.

Conclusion

The addition of brief intraoperative electrical stimulation to neurorrhaphy in this rodent model shows promising neurological benefit in the surgical repair of facial nerve injury.

Level of Evidence

Animal study.
The Ring‐Opening Polymerization–Polycondensation (ROPPOC) Approach to Cyclic Polymers
Authors: Kricheldorf Hans R. , Weidner Steffen M.
Published: May 2020

A new concept called ring‐opening polymerization–polycondensation (ROPPOC) is presented and discussed. This synthetic strategy is based on the intermediate formation of chains having two end groups that can react with each other. The ROPPOC syntheses are subdivided into three groups according to the nature of the chain ends: two ionic end groups, one ionic and one covalent chain end, and a combination of two reactive covalent end groups may be involved, depending on the catalyst. The usefulness for the preparation of cyclic polymers is discussed with a review of numerous previously published examples. These examples concern the following classes of cyclic polymers: polypeptides, polyamides, and polyesters, including polycarbonates and cyclic polysiloxanes. It is demonstrated that the results of certain ROPPOC syntheses are in contradiction to the Jacobson–Stockmayer theory. Finally, the usefulness of ROPPOCs for the detection of polydisperse catenanes is discussed.
Fragile X Gray Zone Alleles Are Associated With Signs of Parkinsonism and Earlier Death
Authors: Hall Deborah A. , Nag Sukriti , Ouyang Bichun , Bennett David A. , Liu Yuanqing , Ali Aisha , Zhou Lili , Berry‐Kravis Elizabeth
Published: May 2020

Background

Premutation size (55–199 CGG repeats) in the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene cause fragile X‐associated tremor/ataxia syndrome, but it is unclear whether smaller “gray” zone expansions of 41–54 repeats are also associated with movement disorders. The objectives of this study were to determine the association between the FMR1 gene gray zone expansions, AGG interspersions, and the presence of parkinsonism and motor and cognitive function in an elderly community‐based population.

Methods

Automated FMR1 polymerase chain reaction was performed on existing samples from 2 longitudinal aging studies whose subjects agreed to brain donation. A detailed clinical evaluation including a modified Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale score, a composite score of global motor function, 17 cognitive tests summarized as a global measure of cognition, and neuropathological examination were obtained for genotyped participants.

Results

The average age of the population (n = 2362) was 85.9 ± 7.3 years, and average age at death was 88.6 ± 6.4 years (n = 1326), with 72% women. The prevalence of FMR1 gray zone alleles was 5.2% (122 of 2362). There was no difference between participants with gray zone expansions or those lacking AGG interspersions compared with normal participants in global cognition, global motor function, clinical diagnosis, or pathological changes. Gray zone alleles were associated with signs of parkinsonism in men (P = 0.01), and gray zone carrier men were more likely to die (hazard ratio, 2.34; 95% confidence interval, 1.31–4.16).

Conclusions

This is the largest study to investigate gray zone alleles in a community population. The key findings are that in men, the gray zone allele is associated with signs of parkinsonism and higher risk of death, but not with intranuclear neuronal inclusions. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society