bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic Lubricating Behaviors of 3D Graphene and 2D Hexagonal Boron Nitride Dispersed in PAO4 for Steel/Steel Contact
Authors: Qi Shunshun , Geng Zhongrong , Lu Zhibin , Zhang Guangan , Wu Zhiguo
Published: February 2020

Nanomaterials as oil‐based lubricant additives improve the tribological properties of oils, and its enormous potential in oil‐based applications has attracted increasing attention. However, 2D materials have limited applications in industry due to its high price. 3D graphene (3D Gr) has become a substitute of 2D graphene because of its low price. Hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) is known as white graphene and is a material with potential lubrication applications. In this paper, the combination of the two different dimensions materials not only plays a significant role in reducing environmental pollution, but also exerts excellent properties of both materials. The results show that the mixed‐dimensional nanomaterials have good macroscopic lubricity under oil.
Directly Spin Coating a Low‐Viscosity Organic Semiconductor Solution onto Hydrophobic Surfaces: Toward High‐Performance Solution‐Processable Organic Transistors
Authors: Wang Shuya , Zhao Xiaoli , Tong Yanhong , Tang Qingxin , Liu Yichun
Published: February 2020

Solution‐processable organic thin‐film transistors (OTFTs) have attracted considerable attention owing to their low cost, low‐temperature preparation, and compatibility with flexible substrates. Spin‐coating is the simplest and most common method for manufacturing large‐area OTFTs; it can be challenging, however, to spin‐coat high‐quality, uniform organic semiconductor films onto hydrophobic surfaces. The use of such surfaces is vital for improving device performance. In this work, through theoretical calculation of the spreading parameter and wetting envelope, the wetting behavior of organic semiconductor solutions on hydrophobic dielectrics is quantitatively analyzed. Based on the theoretical findings, organic‐semiconductor‐solution surface tension is systematically adjusted to solve the common wettability issues. The crystallinity of the wettable organic semiconductor film is also significantly improved by a post‐annealing performed at even lower temperature. As a result, fabricated 6,13‐bis(triisopropylsilylethynyl)‐pentacene OTFTs show excellent electrical characteristics, with mobility and current on/off ratios up to 1.66 cm2 V−1 s−1 and 7 × 109, respectively. This work provides general guidance for solving wettability issues, that can lead to the development of new‐generation, high‐performance, solution‐processable, organic electronic devices.
Essential updates 2018/2019: Liver transplantation
Authors: Ohira Masahiro , Tanimine Naoki , Kobayashi Tsuyoshi , Ohdan Hideki
Published: February 2020

Among the recent topics in the field of liver transplantation (LT), one of the significant therapeutic breakthroughs is the introduction of direct‐acting antiviral agents (DAAs) against hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. With cure rates close to 100%, a better proportion of LT candidates and recipients can be cured of HCV infection by DAA therapies that are simple and well‐tolerated. Other critical topics include the issue of indication of LT for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, which has been continuously studied. Several expanded criteria beyond the Milan criteria with acceptable results have been recently reported. The role of donor‐specific antibodies (DSAs) in intractable rejection is also an important matter that has been studied. Although long recognized as an important factor in antibody‐mediated rejection and even graft survival in renal transplantation, the impact of DSAs on graft and patient survival in LT remains to be elucidated. Including the issues described above, this article focuses on recent advances in LT, management to avoid recurrence of primary diseases, optimization of immunosuppressive treatment, and extended donor criteria.
Cold tolerance in the genusArabidopsis
Authors: Armstrong Jessica J. , Takebayashi Naoki , Wolf Diana E.
Published: February 2020

Premise

Cold tolerance is an important factor limiting the geographic distribution and growing season for many plant species, yet few studies have examined variation in cold tolerance extensively within and among closely related species and compared that to their geographic distribution.

Methods

This study examines cold tolerance within and among species in the genusArabidopsis. We assessed cold tolerance by measuring electrolyte leakage from detached leaves in multiple populations of fiveArabidopsistaxa. The temperature at which 50% of cells were lysed was considered the lethal temperature (LT50).

Results

We found variability within and among taxa in cold tolerance. There was no significant within‐species relationship between latitude and cold tolerance. However, the northern taxa,A. kamchatica,A. lyratasubsp.petraea, andA. lyratasubsp.lyrata, were more cold tolerant thanA. thalianaandA. hallerisubsp.gemmiferaboth before and after cold acclimation. Cold tolerance increased after cold acclimation (exposure to low, but nonfreezing temperatures) for all taxa, although the difference was not significant forA. hallerisubsp.gemmifera. For all taxa exceptA. lyratasubsp.lyrata, theLT50values for cold‐acclimated plants were higher than the January mean daily minimum temperature (Tmin), indicating that if plants were not insulated by snow cover, they would not likely survive winter at the northern edge of their range.

Conclusions

Arabidopsis lyrataandA. kamchaticawere far more cold tolerant thanA. thaliana. These extremely cold‐tolerant taxa are excellent candidates for studying both the molecular and ecological aspects of cold tolerance.
Flexible polymer thermoelectric device based on PEDOT:PSS and surface treated pyromellitic dianhydride‐oxydianiline polyimide substrate
Authors: Lee Juheon , Kim Seohyun , Chung Moonhyun , Jeong Hakgeun , Choi Hyanghee , Han Haksoo
Published: February 2020

Flexible polymer thermoelectric devices based on poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) and pyromellitic dianhydride‐oxydianiline polyimide polyimide (PI) were fabricated and investigated in this work. PI was selected as a substrate for PEDOT:PSS to secure from repeated bending cycles of flexible device. To enhance the interfacial adhesion between PEDOT:PSS and PI, oxygen plasma treatment was used on the surface of PI substrate. The effect of the surface treatment with oxygen plasma on the synthesized PI substrate was significant. The polar component of surface free energy of PI was increased from 2.8 to 31.8 mJ/m2. The power factor of PEDOT:PSS on the PI substrate was increased from 25.86 to 43.78 μW m−1 K−2. Also, as a result of 10 k times of bending test, the electrical performance consistency and the mechanical stability of the fabricated devices were confirmed. This verified fabricated flexible polymer thermoelectric devices based on PEDOT:PSS and PI are suitable for the various applications.
Treatment times in breast cancer patients receiving neoadjuvant vs adjuvant chemotherapy: Is efficiency a benefit of preoperative chemotherapy?
Authors: Melchior Nicole M. , Sachs Darren B. , Gauvin Gabrielle , Chang Cecilia , Wang Chihsiung E. , Sigurdson Elin R. , Daly John M. , Aggon Allison A. , Hayes Shelly B. , Obeid Elias I. , Bleicher Richard J.
Published: February 2020

Background/Objective

Delays in times to surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy impair survival in breast cancer patients. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) confers equivalent survival to adjuvant chemotherapy (AC), but it remains unknown which approach facilitates faster initiation and completion of treatment.

Methods

Women ≥18 years old with nonrecurrent, noninflammatory, clinical stage I‐III breast cancer diagnosed between 2004 and 2015 who underwent both surgery and chemotherapy were reviewed from the National Cancer Database.

Results

Among 155 606 women overall, 28 241 patients received NAC and 127 365 patients received AC. NAC patients had higher clinical T and N stages (35.8% T3/4 vs 4.9% T3/4; 14.4% N2/3 vs 3.7% N2/3). After adjusting for stage and other factors, NAC patients had longer times to begin treatment (36.1 vs 35.4 days adjusted, P = .15), and took significantly longer to start radiotherapy (240.8 vs 218.2 days adjusted, P < .0001), and endocrine therapy (301.6 vs 275.7 days adjusted, P < .0001). Unplanned readmissions (1.2% vs 1.7%), 30‐day mortality (0.04% vs 0.01%), and 90‐day mortality (0.30% vs 0.08%) were all low and clinically insignificant between NAC and AC.

Conclusion

Compared to patients receiving AC, those receiving NAC do not start treatment sooner. In addition, patients receiving NAC do not complete treatment faster. Although there are clear indications for administering NAC vs AC, rapidity of treatment should not be considered a benefit of giving chemotherapy preoperatively.
Discovery of novel molecular characteristics and cellular biological properties in ameloblastoma
Authors: Kondo Sayuri , Ota Akinobu , Ono Takayuki , Karnan Sivasundaram , Wahiduzzaman Md , Hyodo Toshinori , Lutfur Rahman Md , Ito Kunihiro , Furuhashi Akifumi , Hayashi Tomio , Konishi Hiroyuki , Tsuzuki Shinobu , Hosokawa Yoshitaka , Kazaoka Yoshiaki
Published: February 2020

Ameloblastoma is a rare odontogenic benign tumor accounting for less than 1% of head and neck tumors. Advanced next generation sequencing (NGS) analyses identified high frequency of BRAF V600E and SMO L412F mutations in ameloblastoma. Despite the existence of whole genomic sequence information from patients with ameloblastoma, entire molecular signature of and the characteristics of ameloblastoma cells are still obscure. In this study, we sought to uncover the molecular basis of ameloblastoma and to determine the cellular phenotype of ameloblastoma cells with BRAF mutations. Our comparative cDNA microarray analysis and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) showed that ameloblastoma exhibited a distinct gene expression pattern from the normal tissues: KRAS‐responsive gene set is significantly activated in ameloblastoma. Importantly, insulin like growth factor 2 (IGF2), a member of KRAS‐responsive genes, enhances the proliferation of an ameloblastoma cell line AMU‐AM1 with BRAF mutation. In addition, Toll‐like receptor 2 (TLR2) knockdown readily inactivated KRAS‐responsive gene sets as well as increases caspase activities, suggesting that TLR2 signaling may mediate cell survival signaling in ameloblastoma cells. Collectively, the findings may help to further clarify the pathophysiology of ameloblastoma and lead to the development of precision medicine for patients with ameloblastoma.
CD66b+ neutrophils and α‐SMA+ fibroblasts predict clinical outcomes and benefits from postoperative chemotherapy in gastric adenocarcinoma
Authors: Cong Xiliang , Zhang Yongle , Zhu Ziyu , Li Sen , Yin Xin , Zhai Zhao , Zhang Yu , Xue Yingwei
Published: February 2020

Background

Emerging evidence indicates that the tumor microenvironment (TME) influences tumor progression through the various cells it contains. Tumor‐associated neutrophils (TANs) and cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) are prominent constituents of diverse malignant solid tumors and are crucial in the TME and cancer evolution. However, the relationships and combined prognostic value of these two cell types are not known in gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC).

Materials and Methods

In total, 215 GAC patients who underwent curative surgery were enrolled. TANs were assessed by immunohistochemical staining for CD66b, and CAFs were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining for α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA).

Results

The percentages of patients with high‐density TANs and CAFs in GAC tissue were 47.9% (103/215) and 43.3% (93/215), respectively. The densities of TANs and CAFs in GAC tissue samples were markedly elevated and independently correlated with GAC clinical outcomes. A strong correlation (R = .348, P < .001) was detected between TANs and CAFs in GAC. The combination of TANs and CAFs produced a more exact outcome than either factor alone. Patients with an α‐SMAlowCD66bhigh (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.791; 95% CI: 1.062‐3.021; P = .029), α‐SMAhighCD66blow (HR = 2.402; 95% CI: 1.379‐4.183; P = .002), or α‐SMAhighCD66bhigh (HR = 3.599; 95% CI: 2.330‐5.560; P < .001) phenotype were gradually correlated with poorer disease‐free survival than the subset of patients with an α‐SMAlowCD66blow phenotype. The same results were observed for disease‐specific survival in the subgroups. Noticeably, in stage II‐III patients with the α‐SMAlowCD66blow phenotype, an advantage was obtained with postoperative chemotherapeutics, and the risk of a poor prognosis was reduced compared with stage II‐III patients with the α‐SMAlowCD66bhigh, α‐SMAhighCD66blow or α‐SMAhighCD66bhigh phenotype (HR: 0.260, 95% CI: 0.124‐0.542, P < .001 for disease‐free survival; and HR: 0.258, 95% CI: 124‐0.538, P < .001 for disease‐specific survival).

Conclusion

Overall, we concluded that the combination of CD66b+ TANs and α‐SMA+ CAFs could be used as an independent factor for patient outcomes and to identify GAC patients who might benefit from the administration of postoperative chemotherapeutics.
Embedding Industry Certifications into Community College Programs
Authors: McCaffery Russell N. , Backus Leslie , Maxwell Nan
Published: February 2020

This chapter discusses the process Broward College in Fort Lauderdale, Florida used to embed certifications from the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals into its associate and bachelor degree programs. Included is an overview of the process followed as well as challenges encountered. The chapter concludes with recommendations for institutions that are looking to embed third‐party industry certifications into their academic programs.
Quality Assurance for the New Credentialing Market
Authors: Taylor Steven C. , Soares Louis
Published: February 2020

This chapter provides an overview of the issues that arise when trying to assess quality of credentials in the new credentialing market and discusses elements of an outcomes‐based quality assurance that is evolving.
A Dialogue about the Emerging Market for New Credentials
Authors: Gallagher Sean , Maxwell Nan
Published: February 2020

This chapter focuses on the overall themes, priorities, and “calls to action” that emerged from a discussion and reflection among community college leaders on the chapters in this volume.
Membrane Distillation of Butanol from Aqueous Solution with Polytetrafluoroethylene Membrane
Authors: Wang Yuyang , Qiu Boya , Fan Senqing , Liu Jingyun , Qin Yangmei , Jian Shizhao , Wang Yinan , Xiao Zeyi
Published: February 2020

Nowadays, butanol is considered as biofuel. In this work, separation of butanol from aqueous solution was carried out by vacuum membrane distillation with polytetrafluoroethylene membrane, using mechanical vapor compression on the downstream. Higher flow rates could promote membrane separation with higher total flux and higher separation factor, thus influencing butanol separation. Membrane fouling was observed which exerted a substantial effect on the membrane separation performance with a real fermentation broth. Compared to the traditional distillation process, this procedure is more cost‐effective due to ∼ 50 % reduced energy consumption.
Evaluation of Scale and Corrosion Inhibition of Modified Polyaspartic Acid
Authors: Chen Jianxin , Chen Fengjiang , Han Jian , Su Min , Li Yinhui
Published: February 2020

Amino acid modified polyaspartic acids were evaluated as calcium‐scale inhibitors. Feasibility of scale inhibition experiments was analyzed by molecular dynamics simulation and Gaussian optimization, and the scale inhibition mechanism was theoretically analyzed. Scale inhibition performance was studied by scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, static scale inhibition experiments, and electrochemical performance testing, which provided an experimental basis for the molecular dynamics simulation. The experimental results showed that Arg‐SA‐PASP has better scale inhibition and corrosion inhibition performance than His‐SA‐PASP. The scale inhibition effect increased with increasing concentration. Electrochemical tests indicated that Arg‐SA‐PASP is an excellent scale and corrosion inhibitor.
Influence of the Mineral Content on the Emissivity of Hydrothermal Char
Authors: Graeser Philipp , Pörtner Lukas , Schiemann Martin
Published: February 2020

The influence of minerals on solid fuel conversion is an important topic and has so far been addressed focusing mainly on the catalytic effects. Here, the impact of iron oxide on the emissivity of burning char particles was investigated. Synthetic, hydrothermally carbonized char was doped with SiO2 or with a mixture of SiO2 and Fe2O3. The sample was then exposed to an oxy‐fuel atmosphere in a laboratory reactor. An established pyrometer/infrared (IR) spectrometer setup was used to measure the size, temperature, and IR radiation of single burning particles. Based on these measurements, the spectral and total emissivity in the near‐IR (1.25–2.25 μm) and the total emissivity in the mid‐IR region (2.4–5.5 μm) were calculated. The results show that the iron content directly influences the emissivity of char during combustion.
Review of thermo‐kinetic correlation during grain growth in nanocrystalline materials
Authors: Peng Haoran , Jian Zengyun , Liu Feng
Published: February 2020

Nanocrystalline (NC) materials exhibit many unique properties over their coarse‐grained counterparts due to the high grain boundary density and the small grain size, but they are too difficult to be used in engineering environment because of the poor thermal stability. With regard of this, two strategies are previously proposed to enhance the thermal stability (or impede the grain growth) of NC materials, that is, the thermodynamic and the kinetic approaches. Recent investigations increasingly support that the two approaches may be physically interacted and acted on each other, and they can be treated together within a unified thermo‐kinetic framework. This paper reviews the progress in the investigation of thermo‐kinetic correlation during grain growth in NC materials. First, the theoretical models to describe the concept of the thermo‐kinetic correlation and the grain growth equations developed based on the thermo‐kinetic correlation are reviewed. Second, experimental and simulated evidences to support the coexistence of thermodynamic and kinetic effects are summarized. Third, the potential application of thermo‐kinetic correlation is analyzed and discussed. This paper shows that the stabilization of NC materials can be tailored by the selection of the suitable strategies. Finally, several directions that require further exploration are identified.
Tunable Ni/Fe‐Mo carbide catalyst with high activity toward hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Wang Channa , Li Ling , Wang Huihua , Qu Tianpeng , Tian Jun , Wang Deyong , Kang Zhenhui
Published: February 2020

Cost‐effective catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) are attractive for sustainable production of H2 fuel. Herein, a series of tunable Ni/Fe‐Mo carbide catalysts have been synthesized via a sol‐gel method coupling with a subsequent high temperature carbonization process. The amount of nickel and iron was tuned in the Mo7/C precursors, accomplishing a favourable performance of noble‐metal‐free electrocatalysts for HER. As expected, the designed Ni10Fe4Mo7/C catalyst displays an enhanced catalytic activity toward hydrogen production with an ultralow overpotential (η10 = 110 mV) and striking kinetics (ηonset = 58 mV, k = 54 mV · dec−1) in the alkaline electrolyte (1 M KOH), which are comparable to those of the commercial 20% Pt/C catalyst. Such excellent performance of Ni10Fe4Mo7/C could be attributed to the high intrinsic activities of Ni‐based alloys (NiMo4) and Mo2C, as well as to the lattice contraction in the Mo2C unit cell, in accordance with its high electrochemical surface area (~133 m2 · g−1) and low charge‐transfer resistance (~31.5 Ω) for the associated electrode.
Gold‐Hydrogen Nanoclusters: Atom‐Precise Model to Unveil Catalytic Mechanism and Growth Process of Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Zhao‐Yang , Zang Shuang‐Quan
Published: February 2020

Gold nanoclusters show high catalytic performance in various chemical reactions including the hydrogenation and hydrogen evolution reactions. Hydrogen involved gold clusters is the ideal model to investigate the hydrogen‐gold cluster interactions, the influence of H atoms on the electronic structures of the gold clusters, the particle growth process, and the catalytic mechanism. This paper highlights the pioneering experimental and theoretical works in the gold‐hydrogen cluster studies, and overviews the existing challenges.
Outcomes and toxicities of definitive radiotherapy and reirradiation using 3‐dimensional conformal or intensity‐modulated (pencil beam) proton therapy for patients with nasal cavity and paranasal sinus malignancies
Authors: Fan Ming , Kang Jung Julie , Lee Anna , Fan Dan , Wang Huili , Kitpanit Sarin , Fox Pamela , Sine Kevin , Mah Dennis , McBride Sean M. , Tsai Chiaojung Jillian , Riaz Nadeem , Dunn Lara A. , Sherman Eric J. , Michel Loren , Singh Bhuvanesh , Ganly Ian , Wong Richard J. , Boyle Jay O. , Cohen Marc A. , Lee Nancy Y.
Published: February 2020

Background

Proton therapy (PT) improves outcomes in patients with nasal cavity (NC) and paranasal sinus (PNS) cancers. Herein, the authors have reported to their knowledge the largest series to date using intensity‐modulated proton therapy (IMPT) in the treatment of these patients.

Methods

Between 2013 and 2018, a total of 86 consecutive patients (68 of whom were radiation‐naive and 18 of whom were reirradiated) received PT to median doses of 70 grays and 67 grays relative biological effectiveness, respectively. Approximately 53% received IMPT.

Results

The median follow‐up was 23.4 months (range, 1.7‐69.3 months) for all patients and 28.1 months (range, 2.3‐69.3 months) for surviving patients. The 2‐year local control (LC), distant control, disease‐free survival, and overall survival rates were 83%, 84%, 74%, and 81%, respectively, for radiation‐naive patients and 77%, 80%, 54%, and 66%, respectively for reirradiated patients. Among radiation‐naive patients, when compared with 3‐dimensional conformal proton technique, IMPT significantly improved LC (91% vs 72%; P < .01) and independently predicted LC (hazard ratio, 0.14; P = .01). Sixteen radiation‐naive patients (24%) experienced acute grade 3 toxicities; 4 (6%) experienced late grade 3 toxicities (osteoradionecrosis, vision loss, soft‐tissue necrosis, and soft tissue fibrosis) (grading was performed according to the National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events [version 5.0]). Slightly inferior LC was noted for patients undergoing reirradiation with higher complications: 11% experienced late grade 3 toxicities (facial pain and brain necrosis). Patients treated with reirradiation had more grade 1 to 2 radionecrosis than radiation‐naive patients (brain: 33% vs 7% and osteoradionecrosis: 17% vs 3%).

Conclusions

PT achieved remarkable LC for patients with nasal cavity and paranasal sinus cancers with lower grade 3 toxicities relative to historical reports. IMPT has the potential to improve the therapeutic ratio in these malignancies and is worthy of further investigation.
A review on solar forecasting and power management approaches for energy‐harvesting wireless sensor networks
Authors: Sharma Amandeep , Kakkar Ajay
Published: February 2020

For rechargeable wireless sensor nodes, effective power management is of prime importance because of the stochastic behaviour of the environmental resources. A key issue in integrating solar resources with wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is the need of precise irradiance measurements and power to resource modelling. WSNs are employed in an adhoc manner comprises of numerous sensing nodes and organised as a network for the sake of checking and balancing the environmental factors. Each node has sensing, computation, communication, and locomotion capabilities but operates with limited battery life. Energy harvesting is a way of powering these WSNs by harvesting energy from the environment. By considering harvested energy as an energy source, certain considerations are different from that of battery‐operated networks. Nondeterministic energy availability with respect to time is the reason behind these differences, which put a limit on the maximum rate at which energy can be used. Thus, reliable knowledge of solar radiation is essential for informed design, deployment planning, and optimal management of energy in rechargeable WSNs. Further, power management is essential in self‐powerssed networks to efficiently utilize the available energy. In this paper, a detailed survey on different solar forecasting techniques has been presented for precise energy estimates. A detailed study on energy efficient power management techniques is also proposed to address the feasibility of energy‐harvesting approach in WSNs.
Trim14 promotes autophagy and chemotherapy resistance of gastric cancer cells by regulating AMPK/mTOR pathway
Authors: Xiao Feng , Ouyang Binshen , Zou Jue , Yang Yelin , Yi Lina , Yan Hongzhu
Published: February 2020

Objective

To study the relationship between TRIM14 expression and chemotherapy resistance of gastric cancer (GC) cells.

Methods

The expression of TRIM14 in 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU)‐ and oxaliplation (L‐OHP)‐resistant GC tissues and cells were determined by qRT‐PCR and western blotting. PcDNA3.1‐TRIM14 and shRNA‐TRIM14 vector were transfected to 5‐FU‐resistant GC cells (SGC7901/5‐FU), and the proliferation and apoptosis of cells were measured. Animal experiments on 5‐FU‐resistant GC mice were performed to study the effect of TRIM14 expression on tumor size and weight, GC cell migration, and proliferation. pcDNA3.1‐MK‐3903 plasmid was transfected to SGC7901/5‐FU cells with TRIM14 silence. The cell proliferation and apoptosis were determined. The protein expressions of Trim14, LC3, and BECLIN1 were measured by western blotting.

Results

TRIM14 was significantly upregulated in 5‐FU‐ and L‐OHP‐resistant GC tissues and cells. The overexpression of TRIM14 promoted the proliferation and autophagy of SGC7901/5‐FU cells, and inhibited the apoptosis. Moreover, in vivo experiment verified that the silence of TRIM14 reduced the tumor size and weight, and inhibited the migration and proliferation of GC cells in 5‐FU‐resistant GC mice. The overexpression of MK‐3903 reversed the inhibiting role of TRIM14 knockout on the proliferation and autophagy of SGC7901/5‐FU cells.

Conclusion

TRIM14 promoted chemotherapy resistance of GC cells by regulating AMPK/mTOR pathway, and may be a new biomarker for treating GC.
Neuron–glia interaction in the Drosophila nervous system
Authors: Bittern Jonas , Pogodalla Nicole , Ohm Henrike , Brüser Lena , Kottmeier Rita , Schirmeier Stefanie , Klämbt Christian
Published: February 2020

Animals are able to move and react in manifold ways to external stimuli. Thus, environmental stimuli need to be detected, information must be processed, and, finally, an output decision must be transmitted to the musculature to get the animal moving. All these processes depend on the nervous system which comprises an intricate neuronal network and many glial cells. Glial cells have an equally important contribution in nervous system function as their neuronal counterpart. Manifold roles are attributed to glia ranging from controlling neuronal cell number and axonal pathfinding to regulation of synapse formation, function, and plasticity. Glial cells metabolically support neurons and contribute to the blood–brain barrier. All of the aforementioned aspects require extensive cell–cell interactions between neurons and glial cells. Not surprisingly, many of these processes are found in all phyla executed by evolutionarily conserved molecules. Here, we review the recent advance in understanding neuron–glia interaction in Drosophila melanogaster to suggest that work in simple model organisms will shed light on the function of mammalian glial cells, too.
Assessing insect biodiversity with automatic light traps in Brazil: Pearls and pitfalls of metabarcoding samples in preservative ethanol
Authors: Zenker Mauricio M. , Specht Alexandre , Fonseca Vera G.
Published: February 2020

Automated species identification based on data produced with metabarcoding offers an alternative for assessing biodiversity of bulk insect samples obtained with traps. We used a standard two‐step PCR approach to amplify a 313 bp fragment of the barcoding region of the mitochondrial COI gene. The PCR products were sequenced on an Illumina MiSeq platform, and the OTUs production and taxonomic identifications were performed with a customized pipeline and database. The DNA used in the PCR procedures was extracted directly from the preservative ethanol of bulk insect samples obtained with automatic light traps in 12 sampling areas located in different biomes of Brazil, during wet and dry seasons. Agricultural field and forest edge habitats were collected for all sampling areas. A total of 119 insect OTUs and nine additional OTUs assigned to other arthropod taxa were obtained at a ≥97% sequence similarity level. The alpha and beta diversity analyses comparing biomes, habitats, and seasons were mostly inconclusive, except for a significant difference in beta diversity between biomes. In this study, we were able to metabarcode and HTS adult insects from their preservative medium. Notwithstanding, our results underrepresent the true magnitude of insect diversity expected from samples obtained with automatic light traps in Brazil. Although biological and technical factors might have impacted our results, measures to optimize and standardize eDNA HTS should be in place to improve taxonomic coverage of samples of unknown diversity and stored in suboptimal conditions, which is the case of most eDNA samples.
Bio/hydrochar Sorbents for Environmental Remediation
Authors: Zhang Xingguang , Wang Yang , Cai Junmeng , Wilson Karen , Lee Adam F.
Published: February 2020

A rising global population and aspirational higher living standards has driven a step change in resource utilization and concomitant anthropogenic pollution across the biosphere. Low‐cost and scalable technologies for environmental remediation are therefore urgently sought, with an emphasis on trash‐to‐treasure strategies that exploit abundant but underutilized waste by‐products of existing sectors. Biochars are carbon‐rich, porous solids produced by biomass pyrolysis under anaerobic or oxygen‐scarce conditions at high temperature (350–700 °C), while hydrochars are produced by hydrothermal biomass carbonization at lower temperature (130–250 °C) and high autogenous pressures (0.3–4.0 MPa). Bio/hydrochars possess unique physicochemical properties, notably high surface areas (100–1500 m2 g−1) and porosity (0.25–2.5 cm3 g−1) and rich surface chemistry featuring carboxylic, phenolic, hydroxyl, and carbonyl functions, amenable to chemical, physical, or biochemical modification, rendering them ideal sorbents for pollutants such as heavy metals (e.g. As and Cr), and toxic organic (e.g., dyes and xenobiotics) and inorganic (e.g., SO2) molecules. Bio/hydrochars are attractive for environmental remediation of pollutant mixtures by surface complexation, redox chemistry, electrostatic interactions/ion exchange, or co‐precipitation. This review discusses recent opportunities and challenges in creating bio/hydrochar sorbents and their nanocomposites through grafting, doping, and chemical/physical activation, for the depollution of aquatic and atmospheric environments.
The inflammation‐based modified Glasgow prognostic score is associated with survival in stable heart failure patients
Authors: Cho Anna , Arfsten Henrike , Goliasch Georg , Bartko Philipp E. , Wurm Raphael , Strunk Guido , Hülsmann Martin , Pavo Noemi
Published: February 2020

Aims

The progression of heart failure is presumably dependent on the individual inflammatory host response. The combination of the inflammatory markers, albumin, and C‐reactive protein, termed modified Glasgow prognostic score (mGPS), has been derived from cancer patients and validated in multiple cohorts. This study aimed to investigate the impact of the easily available mGPS on survival of stable patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods and results

Patients with stable HFrEF undergoing routine ambulatory care between January 2011 and November 2017 have been identified from a prospective registry at the Medical University of Vienna. Comorbidities, laboratory data as well as the nutritional risk index at baseline were assessed. All‐cause mortality was defined as the primary study end point. The mGPS was calculated, and its association with heart failure severity and impact on overall survival were determined. Data were analysed for a total of 443 patients. The mGPS was 0 for 352 (80%), 1 for 76 (17%), and 2 for 14 (3%) patients, respectively. Elevation of mGPS was associated with worsening of routine laboratory parameters linked to prognosis, especially NT‐proBNP [median 1830 pg/mL (IQR 764–3455) vs. 4484 pg/mL (IQR 1565–8003) vs. 6343 pg/mL (IQR 3750–15401) for mGPS 0, 1, and 2, respectively; P < 0.001] and nutritional risk index. In the Cox regression analysis, the increase of mGPS was associated with adverse outcome in the univariate analysis [crude hazard ratio 3.00 (95% CI 2.14–4.21), P < 0.001] and after adjustment for multiple covariates as age, gender, body mass index, and glomerular filtration rate as well as heart failure severity reflected by NT‐proBNP and New York Heart Association class [adj. hazard ratio 1.87 (95% CI 1.19–2.93), P = 0.006].

Conclusions

Enhanced inflammation and nutritional depletion are more common in advanced heart failure. The inflammation‐based score mGPS predicts survival in HFrEF patients independently of NT‐proBNP emphasizing the significance of the individual pro‐inflammatory response on prognosis.
Pd‐Catalyzed Regioselective Hydroesterification of Olefins with 2,2,2‐Trifluoroethyl Formate
Authors: Chen Jinhua , Huang Minyan , Ren Wenlong , Chu Jianxiao , Shi Yian
Published: February 2020

A Pd‐catalyzed regioselective hydroesterification of olefins with 2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl formate (TFEF) is described. Either linear or branched esters can be selectively obtained with proper ligands in most cases. The reaction process is operationally simple and involves no toxic CO gas.
A numerical study on ion concentration polarization and electric circuit performance of an electrokinetic battery
Authors: Jiao Yanmei , Zhao Cunlu , Yang Chun , Kang Yuejun , Gao Xiumin , Wang Hui , Song Linhui , He Bin
Published: February 2020

Ion concentration polarization (ICP) imposes remarkable adverse effects on the energy conversion performance of the pressure‐driven electrokinetic (EK) flows through a capillary system that can be equivalently treated as a battery. An optimized dimensionless numerical method is proposed in this study to investigate the causes and the effects of the ICP. Results show that remarkable ICP phenomena are induced under certain conditions such as high applied pressure, high surface charge density, and small inversed Debye length at dimensionless values of 6000, ‒10, and 0.5. Meanwhile, different factors influence the ICP and the corresponding electric properties in different ways. Particularly for the overall electric resistance, the applied pressure and the surface charge density mainly affect the variation amplitude and the level of the overall electric resistance when varying the output electric potential, respectively. Differently, the Debye length affects the overall electric resistance in both aspects. Ultimately, the induced ICP leads to significant nonlinear current–potential curves.
Transition Metal (Fe, Co, Mn) Boosting the Lithium Storage of the Multishelled NiO Anode
Authors: Wang Chengrui , Zhang Lei , Dou Yuhai , Hencz Luke , Jiang Lixue , Al-Mamun Mohammad , Liu Porun , Zhang Shanqing , Wang Dan , Zhao Huijun
Published: February 2020

Further commercial application of low‐cost NiO‐based anodes is hindered by their large volume expansion after full lithiation and relatively poor theoretical capacity. To improve these issues, transition metal (Fe, Co, or Mn)‐modified triple‐shelled NiO microspheres (TS‐NiO) are successfully synthesized by using a hard template double‐adsorption method. Among them, the Fe‐modified TS‐NiO (TS‐NFO) exhibits an extraordinary lithium storage ability with high reversible capacity and outstanding cycling stability (2061.1 mAh g−1 after 800 cycles at 0.5 A g−1), which is the highest performing nickel oxide‐based anode reported to date. The outstanding electrochemical performance of TS‐NFO can be ascribed to its unique triple‐shelled structure. The inner core of TS‐NFO is composed of NiO and is encapsulated by two outer shells which are composed of a mixture of α‐Fe2O3 and NiFe2O4, resulting in a unique hollow triple‐shelled structure (NiO@α‐Fe2O3/NiFe2O4). The void space between the triple shells leaves room for their volume changes during lithiation/delithiation, which improves the cycling stability. In addition, the introduced α‐Fe2O3/NiFe2O4 outer shells increase the energy density and reversible capacity due to a synergistically interactive effect.
Research on the seismic retrofitting performance of RC frames using SC‐PBSPC BRBF substructures
Authors: Cao Xu‐Yang , Wu Gang , Feng De‐Cheng , Wang Zhun , Cui Hao‐Ran
Published: February 2020

A new type of external substructure to upgrade existing reinforced concrete frames (RCFs) is presented in this paper, namely, a self‐centering precast bolt‐connected steel‐plate reinforced concrete buckling‐restrained brace frame (SC‐PBSPC BRBF). The upgrade mechanism and three‐dimensional simulation model were analyzed based on relevant experiment validations. A quasistatic analysis and parameter study was conducted using 21 scenarios to compare the upgrading effects of the outside substructure. Afterwards, a stiffness‐based design procedure was developed and modified for this external substructure, including macro‐demand analysis, partial component design, and overall structural evaluations. Dynamic analyses were also performed on a frame building for five cases, before and after strengthening. The proposed numerical model reflected the precast characteristics and displayed the ideal fitting accuracy. The external assembled brace provided sufficient initial stiffness and energy dissipation capacity, while the external prestressed tendon decreased residual displacements and facilitated self‐centering of the whole structure. The analyses illustrated that the damage to the existing RCF was transferred and seismic demands were significantly reduced within limitations, accompanied with greater capacity reliability. This research provides a reference for the practical applications of the external upgrading substructures in earthquake‐prone areas.
Patterns of Trace Element Accumulation in Waterfowl Restricted to Impoundments Holding Coal Combustion Waste
Authors: Leaphart James C. , Oldenkamp Ricki E. , Bryan Albert L. , Kennamer Robert A. , Beasley James C.
Published: February 2020

Waterfowl are often exposed to and readily accumulate anthropogenic contaminants when foraging in polluted environments. Settling impoundments containing coal combustion waste (CCW) enriched in trace elements such as arsenic (As), selenium (Se), and mercury (Hg) are often used by free-ranging migratory and resident waterfowl and represent potential sources for contaminant uptake. To assess accumulation of CCW contaminants, we experimentally restricted waterfowl to a CCW-contaminated impoundment and quantified trace element burdens in blood, muscle, and liver tissues over known periods of exposure (between 3 and 92 d). From these data we developed models 1) to predict elemental bioaccumulation with increased exposure time, and 2) to predict muscle/liver burdens based on concentrations in blood as a nondestructive sampling method. Although Hg and As did not bioaccumulate in our waterfowl, we observed an increase in Se concentrations in muscle, liver, and blood tissues over the duration of our experiment. Furthermore, we found that blood may be used as an effective nondestructive sampling alternative to predict muscle and liver tissue concentrations in birds contaminated with Se and As through dietary exposure. These data provide unique insights into accumulation rates of contaminants for waterfowl utilizing habitats contaminated with CCW and demonstrate the efficacy of nonlethal sampling of waterfowl to quantify contaminant exposure. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:1052–1059. © 2020 SETAC
Floral Studies inOctomeriaR. BR. (Orchidaceae: Pleurothallidinae)
Authors: dos Santos Thiago Faria , Amano Erika , dos Santos Forstner Angela Cristina , Toscano de Brito A. L. V. , Smidt Eric de Camargo
Published: February 2020

Octomeriais a well‐represented basal genus in the subtribe Pleurothallidinae, the main myophile group of the Orchidaceae. The systematics of the genus is based in leaf shape and degree of connation of sepals. In this study, we analyse comparatively the flower micromorphology of 15 species through light microscopy, histochemical tests and scanning electron microscopy, including most of the infrageneric groups proposed for the genus. The epidermal structures of sepals and petals are very similar, with oblong or isodiametric cells, stomata and trichome‐like structures adaxially. The lip presents a uniseriate epidermis with ovate to irregular cells and mesophyll with homogeneous parenchyma and idioblasts with raphides. Calluses and grooves in the lip were shown to be secretory regions. Histochemical tests in fresh flowers were positive for starch in the sepals, petals and lip and positive for osmophores in the lip. Three types of waxes were observed; one of them is described for the first time. Our study shows that despite similarities in the perianth, floral micromorphology indicated differences in the lip and column surfaces. Thus, this approach can be an important source of phylogenetic information for the genus.
Extrusion and nixtamalization conditions influence the magnitude of change in the nutrients and bioactive components of cereals and legumes
Authors: Kamau Elijah Heka , Nkhata Smith G. , Ayua Emmanuel Owino
Published: February 2020

Cereal and legume diets make up the bulk of caloric sources for a majority of households in the developing world. They contain macro‐ and micronutrients as well as phytochemicals embedded as one matrix. Some phytochemicals are antinutritional factors which can bind nutrients thereby hindering their bioavailability. While there are other methods that can be used to enhance nutrient utilization from such foods, we summarize how food processing methods such as extrusion and nixtamalization are employed to break the food matrix and release these nutrients. Both extrusion and nixtamalization can break down complex carbohydrates into simpler, more soluble forms while at the same time inactivating or denaturing protein inhibitors and other antinutritional factors. Such disruptions of complexes within the food matrix are essential for harnessing optimum nutritional and health benefit from these foods. We present mechanistic approaches explaining how these processes enhance nutrient and mineral bioavailability and phytochemical bioactivity while minimizing the undesirable effects of antinutritional factors that coexist in the complex food matrix.
Expression profiles of PRKG1, SDF2L1 and PPP1R12A are predictive and prognostic factors for therapy response and survival in high‐grade serous ovarian cancer
Authors: Benvenuto Giuseppe , Todeschini Paola , Paracchini Lara , Calura Enrica , Fruscio Robert , Romani Chiara , Beltrame Luca , Martini Paolo , Ravaggi Antonella , Ceppi Lorenzo , Sales Gabriele , Donati Federica , Perego Patrizia , Zanotti Laura , Ballabio Sara , Grassi Tommaso , Delle Marchette Martina , Tognon Germana , Sartori Enrico , Adorni Marco , Odicino Franco , D'Incalci Maurizio , Bignotti Eliana , Romualdi Chiara , Marchini Sergio
Published: February 2020

High‐grade serous ovarian cancer (HGS‐EOCs) is generally sensitive to front‐line platinum (Pt)‐based chemotherapy although most patients at an advanced stage relapse with progressive resistant disease. Clinical or molecular data to identify primary resistant cases at diagnosis are not yet available. HGS‐EOC biopsies from 105 Pt‐sensitive (Pt‐s) and 89 Pt‐resistant (Pt‐r) patients were retrospectively selected from two independent tumor tissue collections. Pathway analysis was done integrating miRNA and mRNA expression profiles. Signatures were further validated in silico on a cohort of 838 HGS‐EOC cases from a published dataset. In all, 131 mRNAs and 5 miRNAs belonging to different functionally related molecular pathways distinguish Pt‐s from Pt‐r cases. Then, 17 out of 23 selected elements were validated by orthogonal approaches (SI signature). As resistance to Pt is associated with a short progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), the prognostic role of the SI signature was assessed, and 14 genes associated with PFS and OS, in multivariate analyses (SII signature). The prognostic value of the SII signature was validated in a third extensive cohort. The expression profiles of SDF2L1, PPP1R12A and PRKG1 genes (SIII signature) served as independent prognostic biomarkers of Pt‐response and survival. The study identified a prognostic molecular signature based on the combined expression profile of three genes which had never been associated with the clinical outcome of HGS‐EOC. This may lead to early identification, at the time of diagnosis, of patients who would not greatly benefit from standard chemotherapy and are thus eligible for novel investigational approaches.
Magnetic two‐dimensional layered crystals meet with ferromagnetic semiconductors
Authors: Guo Yilv , Wang Bing , Zhang Xiwen , Yuan Shijun , Ma Liang , Wang Jinlan
Published: February 2020

The existence of intrinsic ferromagnetic semiconductors (FMSs) in two‐dimensional (2D) materials has been a long‐term concern and pursuit. Recent breakthroughs in the 2D FMSs, such as CrGeTe3 and CrX3 (X = Cl, Br, I) from bulk down to monolayer, have stimulated intensive researches on new physical phenomena and creative concepts. This minireview mainly summarizes recent progress of 2D intrinsic FMSs in theoretical side, and focuses on the ongoing strategies proposed to enhance ferromagnetism, involving the mechanisms of magnetic exchange interaction and the significance of magnetic anisotropy. Meanwhile, spin‐related multifunctionality with ultrathin FMSs and their van de Waals heterostructures in magnetoelectric, valleytronic, and nondissipative electronic technology are introduced, as well as the current challenges and the prospects in this field are discussed.

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Organic additive engineering toward efficient perovskite light‐emitting diodes
Authors: Liu Yuqiang , Ono Luis K. , Qi Yabing
Published: February 2020

Perovskite materials with excellent optical and electrical properties are promising for light‐emitting diodes. In the field of perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs), organic materials additive engineering has been proved to be an effective scheme for enhancing efficiency and stability in PeLEDs. Most impressively, the reported external quantum efficiency of PeLEDs based on perovskite‐organic composite has reached over 20%. Herein, we will review the important progress of the organic materials' additive‐modified PeLEDs and discuss the remaining problems and challenges and the key research direction in the near future.

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Centering First‐Generation College Students’ Lived Experiences Through Critical Digital Storytelling
Authors: Aguilera Earl , Lopez Geraldine
Published: February 2020

The authors featured in this department column share instructional practices that support transformative literacy teaching and disrupt “struggling reader” and “struggling writer” labels.