bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction and integrated analysis of crosstalking ceRNAs networks in laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Yuehui , Ye Fan
Published: July 2019

Background

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) is one of the most common malignant tumours of the head and neck. Recent evidence has demonstrated that lncRNAs play important roles in tumour progression and could be used as biomarkers for early diagnosis, prognosis, and potential therapeutic targets. The “competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA)” hypothesis states that lncRNAs competitively bind to miRNAs through their intramolecular miRNA reaction elements (MREs) to construct a wide range of ceRNA regulatory networks. This study aims to predict the role of ceRNA network in LSCC, for advancing the understanding of underlying mechanisms of tumorigenesis.

Material and Methods

In this study, the functions of lncRNAs as ceRNAs in LSCC and their prognostic significance were investigated via comprehensive integrated expression profiles data of lncRNAs, mRNAs, and miRNAs obtained from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Protein–protein interaction, gene ontology, pathway, and Kaplan–Meier curves analysis were used to profile the expression and function of altered RNAs in LSCC.

Results

As a result, 889 lncRNAs, 55 miRNAs and 1946 mRNAs were found to be differentially expressed in LSCC. These altered mRNAs were mainly involved in extracellular matrix organization, calcium signaling, and metabolic pathways. To study the regulatory function of lncRNAs, an lncRNA-mediated ceRNA network was constructed. This ceRNA network included 61 lncRNAs, seven miRNAs and seven target mRNAs. Of these RNAs, lncRNAs (TSPEAR-AS, CASK-AS1, MIR137HG, PART1, LSAMP-AS1), miRNA (has-mir-210) and mRNAs (HOXC13, STC2, DIO1, FOXD4L1) had a significant effect on the prognosis of LSCC.

Conclusion

The results of this study broaden the understanding of the mechanisms by which lncRNAs are involved in tumorigenesis. Furthermore, five lncRNAs (TSPEAR-AS, CASK-AS1, MIR137HG, PART1, LSAMP-AS1) were identified as potential prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for LSCC. These results provide a basis for further experimental and clinical research.
Systems of Communicating Sexual and Reproductive Health Issues between Hearing Parents and Their Deaf Adolescent Children in Western Kenya
Authors: Ochieng’ Justine Anyango , Atieli Harrysone , Abongo Bernard , Ouma Collins
Published: July 2019

Background: Deaf adolescent children face greater challenges in accessing information, particularly on sexual and reproductive health (SRH) than those with other forms of disability. Parents therefore represent the first source of information for such children. However, the extent of this and systems of communication used by these parents remain largely unknown. Therefore, it is against this backdrop that we sought to study systems of parents communicating SRH issues to their children.

Methods: A mixed method design was used to collect quantitative and qualitative data on the system of communication used by the sign-language illiterate parents respectively, their perceptions on such discussions and the choice of system of communication. A sample size of 384 parent-child pairs was selected using systematic probability sampling for the quantitative component of the study. For the qualitative component, respondents were recruited using a purposive convenience sampling method which though non-representative, allowed the investigator to choose participants best suited for the intended objective. The study was carried out in ten schools; randomly selected from a sample frame comprising of a list of primary and secondary schools for deaf children within the former Nyanza region of western Kenya. Data was collected using anonymized questionnaires and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs).

Results: Majority of the male parents 90 (23.4%) were in the age range of 51-60 years, while most female parents 134 (34.8%) were in the age category of 40-50 years. Nearly 70% (67%) of the children were in the age range of 15-19 years. Overall, use of picture came out as the main mode/format of communication (33%); with females using it more (23%) compared to males 12.3%. Lip-reading (children reading the lips of their parents), was principally used by male parents. 32(8.3%) parents falling within the age group 41-50 and 51-60 years felt that the information they had on SRH was inadequate. More so, in a qualitative interview, most parents were not satisfied that they had provided enough information to their children on matters of SRH due to communication barrier. Some of the emerging themes from the FGDs were: parents lack a proper approach of conveying SRH information to their deaf adolescent children, unresponsiveness/lack of interest by deaf adolescent children, wrong translation of information conveyed and insufficient time with their deaf adolescent children to pass across these messages.

Conclusion: Children with hard hearing are less likely to get adequate information on SRH than their counterparts with no hearing impairment.
Linear Summing Formulas of Generalized Pentanacci and Gaussian Generalized Pentanacci Numbers
Authors: Soykan Yüksel
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we present linear summation formulas for generalized Pentanacci numbers and generalized Gaussian Pentanacci numbers. Also, as special cases, we give linear summation formulas of Pentanacci and Pentanacci-Lucas numbers; Gaussian Pentanacci and Gaussian Pentanacci-Lucas numbers. We present the proofs to indicate how these formulas, in general, were discovered. Of course, all the listed formulas may be proved by induction, but that method of proof gives no clue about their discovery.
The Comparison of the Effect of Repetitive Doses of Succinylcholine and Thiopental Sodium on the Duration and Severity of Seizure in Electro Convulsive Therapy: Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Nanaei Farhad , Bahrami Hadi , Kasani Aziz
Published: July 2019

Background and Aim: Regarding the controversial results on the effects of anesthetics, especially thiopental sodium, on the duration and severity of seizure and the lack of adequate information on the use of doses of anesthetic and paralysing drugs during ECT, this study was designed to determine the effect of repetitive doses of succinylcholine and Thiopental sodium was administered on the duration and severity of seizure during ECT.

Materials and Methods: The present study was a one-blind randomized clinical trial on patients admitted to the psychiatric ward of Dezful Ganjavian Hospital. The research samples were selected after informed consent and entry criteria. Then, the samples were randomly assigned to two groups. In one group, succinylcholine dose was repeated (one third of the initial dose), and in the other group, the dose of thiopental sodium was repeated (one third of the initial dose). In all patients, seizure duration based on EEG monitoring and severity of seizure was determined by the psychiatrist based on the symptoms of the patient during seizure.

Results: There was a significant difference between the quality of seizure in the two treatment groups after the intervention. There was a strong and good seizure in the thiopental sodium group (p <0.0001). There was a significant difference between the variables of seizure status in comparison with the previous shock in the two treatment groups after the intervention (p <0.0001). The duration of seizure was higher in thiopental sodium treatment group, but no significant difference was observed (p = 0.82).

Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the duration and quality of seizure was better in patients requiring repetitive doses of hypnotic drugs (Thiopental Sodium), which was used to repeat the dose of muscle relaxant (succinylcholine).
UCP2 gene polymorphisms in obesity and diabetes, and the role of UCP2 in cancer
Authors: Li Jinran , Jiang Rihua , Cong Xianling , Zhao Yunfeng
Published: July 2019

Mitochondria are the primary sites for ATP synthesis and free radical generation in organisms. Abnormal mitochondrial metabolism contributes to many diseases, including obesity, diabetes and cancer. UCP2 is an ion/anion transporter located in mitochondrial inner membrane, and has a crucial role in regulating oxidative stress, cellular metabolism, cell proliferation and cell death. Polymorphisms of the UCP2 gene have been associated with diabetes and obesity because UCP2 is involved in energy expenditure and insulin secretion. Moreover, UCP2 gene expression is often amplified in cancers, and increased UCP2 expression contributes to cancer growth, cancer metabolism, anti‐apoptosis and drug resistance. The present review summarizes the latest findings of UCP2 with respect to obesity, diabetes and cancer.
Analysis of the functional capacity outcome measures for myotonic dystrophy
Authors: Jimenez‐Moreno Aura Cecilia , Nikolenko Nikoletta , Kierkegaard Marie , Blain Alasdair P. , Newman Jane , Massey Charlotte , Moat Dionne , Sodhi Jas , Atalaia Antonio , Gorman Grainne S. , Turner Chris , Lochmüller Hanns
Published: July 2019

Objectives

Defining clinically relevant outcome measures for myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) that can be valid and feasible for different phenotypes has proven problematic. The Outcome Measures for Myotonic Dystrophy (OMMYD) group proposed a battery of functional outcomes: 6‐minute walk test, 30 seconds sit and stand test, timed 10 m walk test, timed 10 m walk/run test, and nine‐hole peg test. This, however, required a large‐scale investigation,

Methods

A cohort of 213 patients enrolled in the natural history study, PhenoDM1, was analyzed in cross‐sectional analysis and subsequently 98 patients were followed for longitudinal analysis. We aimed to assess: (1) feasibility and best practice; (2) intra‐session reliability; (3) validity; and (4) behavior over time, of these tests.

Results

OMMYD outcomes proved feasible as 96% of the participants completed at least one trial for all tests and more than half (n = 113) performed all three trials of each test. Body mass index and disease severity associate with functional capacity. There was a significant difference between the first and second trials of each test. There was a moderate to strong correlation between these functional outcomes and muscle strength, disease severity and patient‐reported outcomes. All outcomes after 1 year detected a change in functional capacity except the nine‐hole peg test.

Conclusions

These tests can be used as a battery of outcomes or independently based on the shown overlapping psychometric features and strong cross‐correlations. Due to the large and heterogeneous sample of this study, these results can serve as reference values for future studies.
Prosody instruction intervention as a means to improved reading comprehension
Authors: Cypert Rick , Petro Marilyn
Published: July 2019

The relationship between prosody and comprehension, previously demonstrated in K–12 students, was examined in university students enrolled in first‐year writing classes. Students completed the Gray Oral Reading Test‐5 both before and after an expressive reading intervention (ER) or no oral reading instruction (NI). Throughout the semester, the ER students marked an excerpt of text for prosodic signals and read it aloud with a partner. Training and practice in expressive reading led to a significant improvement in the normed Oral Reading Index score. Specifically, ER participants demonstrated improved accuracy, fluency, and reading comprehension in comparison with NI participants. The significant relationship between accuracy and comprehension in the ER condition suggests that expressive reading instruction strengthened student ability to read words accurately and, in turn, comprehend the material better than students in the NI condition. Expressive reading practices are recommended to engage students more deeply with the text.
Epitaxial Oxides on Semiconductors: From Fundamentals to New Devices
Authors: Kumah Divine P. , Ngai Joseph H. , Kornblum Lior
Published: July 2019

Functional oxides are an untapped resource for futuristic devices and functionalities. These functionalities can range from high temperature superconductivity to multiferroicity and novel catalytic schemes. The most prominent route for transforming these ideas from a single device in the lab to practical technologies is by integration with semiconductors. Moreover, coupling oxides with semiconductors can herald new and unexpected functionalities that exist in neither of the individual materials. Therefore, oxide epitaxy on semiconductors provides a materials platform for novel device technologies. As oxides and semiconductors exhibit properties that are complementary to one another, epitaxial heterostructures comprised of the two are uniquely poised to deliver rich functionalities. This review discusses recent advancements in the growth of epitaxial oxides on semiconductors, and the electronic and physical structure of their interfaces. Leaning on these fundamentals and practicalities, the material behavior and functionality of semiconductor–oxide heterostructures is discussed, and their potential as device building blocks is highlighted. The culmination of this discussion is a review of recent advances in the development of prototype devices based on semiconductor–oxide heterostructures, in areas ranging from silicon photonics to photocatalysis. This overview is intended to stimulate ideas for new concepts of functional devices and lay the groundwork for their realization.
Differentiation of Rat Mesenchymal Stem Cells toward Osteogenic Lineage on Extracellular Matrix Protein Gradients
Authors: Rasi Ghaemi Soraya , Delalat Bahman , Cavallaro Alex , Mierczynska‐Vasilev Agnieszka , Vasilev Krasimir , Voelcker Nicolas H.
Published: July 2019

This report addresses the issue of optimizing extracellular matrix protein density required to support osteogenic lineage differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) by culturing MSCs on surface‐bound density gradients of immobilized collagen type I (COL1) and osteopontin (OPN). A chemical surface gradient is prepared by tailoring the surface chemical composition from high hydroxyl groups to aldehyde groups using a diffusion‐controlled plasma polymerization technique. Osteogenesis on the gradient surface is determined by immunofluorescence staining against Runx2 as an early marker and by staining of calcium phosphate deposits as a late stage differentiation marker. The Runx2 intensity and calcified area increase with increasing COL1 density up to a critical value corresponding to 124.2 ng cm−2, above which cell attachment and differentiation do not rise further, while this critical value for OPN is 19.0 ng cm−2. This gradient approach may facilitate the screening of an optimal biomolecule surface density on tissue‐engineered scaffolds, implants, or tissue culture ware to obtain the desired cell response, and may generate opportunities for more cost‐effective regenerative medicine.
Microneedle‐Based Generation of Microbubbles in Cancer Tumors to Improve Ultrasound‐Assisted Drug Delivery
Authors: Zandi Ashkan , Khayamian Mohammad Ali , Saghafi Mohammad , Shalileh Shahriar , Katebi Pouyan , Assadi Sepanta , Gilani Ali , Salemizadeh Parizi Mohammad , Vanaei Shohreh , Esmailinejad Mohammad Reza , Abbasvandi Fereshteh , Hoseinpour Parisa , Abdolahad Mohammad
Published: July 2019

Production of local microbubbles (MBs) with dense distribution in tumor environment is achieved by developing an integrated electrochemical stimulator on a microfabricated silicon needle covered by zinc‐oxide nanowires (ZnONWs). MBs are then exploded by external ultrasonic actuation, which induce microcavitations in tumor cells followed by direct entrance of anticancer drugs into cancer cells. This system, named ZnO nanowire‐based microbubble generator probe (ZnONW‐MGP), is tested on tumorized mice models (by MC4L2 breast cell lines). Mice treated by ZnONW‐MGP have ≈82% reduction in tumor size within 10 days with just 25% of conventional dose of paclitaxel while in the absence of the system, they have just a 15% reduction in tumor size. Presence of ZnO nanostructures on microneedles strongly reduces the size of MBs and enhances the efficacy of the sonoporation.
Molecular Mass‐Dependent Resorption and Bone Regeneration of 3D Printed PPF Scaffolds in a Critical‐Sized Rat Cranial Defect Model
Authors: Nettleton Karissa , Luong Derek , Kleinfehn Alex P. , Savariau Laura , Premanandan Christopher , Becker Matthew L.
Published: July 2019

The emergence of additive manufacturing has afforded the ability to fabricate intricate, high resolution, and patient‐specific polymeric implants. However, the availability of biocompatible resins with tunable resorption profiles remains a significant hurdle to clinical translation. In this study, 3D scaffolds are fabricated via stereolithographic cDLP printing of poly(propylene fumarate) (PPF) and assessed for bone regeneration in a rat critical‐sized cranial defect model. Scaffolds are printed with two different molecular mass resin formulations (1000 and 1900 Da) with narrow molecular mass distributions and implanted to determine if these polymer characteristics influence scaffold resorption and bone regeneration in vivo. X‐ray microcomputed tomography (µ‐CT) data reveal that at 4 weeks the lower molecular mass polymer degrades faster than the higher molecular mass PPF and thus more new bone is able to infiltrate the defect. However, at 12 weeks, the regenerated bone volume of the 1900 Da formulation is nearly equivalent to the lower molecular mass 1000 Da formulation. Significantly, lamellar bone bridges the defect at 12 weeks with both PPF formulations and there is no indication of an acute inflammatory response.
Electromagnetic Functions of Patterned 2D Materials for Micro–Nano Devices Covering GHz, THz, and Optical Frequency
Authors: Zhang Min , Wang Xi‐Xi , Cao Wen‐Qiang , Yuan Jie , Cao Mao‐Sheng
Published: July 2019

2D materials strongly drive the development of micro–nano devices, and patterned structures based on such crystals bring new opportunities. The advanced fabrication techniques of patterned 2D materials and the analysis of their electronic structures, and physical properties to provide access to diverse applications are discussed. Special attention is given to the hotspot electromagnetic functions and devices based on patterned 2D materials, including photodetectors, optoelectronic switches, modulators, polarization converters, gratings, as well as electromagnetic wave attenuation devices. Finally, a systematical outlook on the development of patterned 2D materials in micro–nano devices is presented, pointing out the current problems and exploring the most promising directions in the future.
Cross‐Coupling Reactions of Alkyl Halides with Aryl Grignard Reagents Using a Tetrachloroferrate with an Innocent Countercation
Authors: Hashimoto Toru , Maruyama Tsubasa , Yamaguchi Takamichi , Matsubara Yutaka , Yamaguchi Yoshitaka
Published: July 2019

Bis(triphenylphosphoranylidene)ammonium tetrachloroferrate, (PPN)[FeCl4] (1), was evaluated as a catalyst for cross‐coupling reactions. 1 exhibits high stability toward air and moisture and is an effective catalyst for the reaction of secondary alkyl halides with aryl Grignard reagents. The PPN cation is considered as an innocent counterpart to the iron center. We have developed an easy‐to‐handle iron catalyst for “ligand‐free” cross‐coupling reactions.

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Toward Automated Enzymatic Glycan Synthesis in a Compartmented Flow Microreactor System
Authors: Heinzler Raphael , Fischöder Thomas , Elling Lothar , Franzreb Matthias
Published: July 2019

Immobilized microfluidic enzyme reactors (IMER) are of particular interest for automation of enzyme cascade reactions. Within an IMER, substrates are converted by paralleled immobilized enzyme modules and intermediate products are transported for further conversion by subsequent enzyme modules. By optimizing substrate conversion in the spatially separated enzyme modules purification of intermediate products is not necessary, thus shortening process time and increasing space‐time yields. The IMER enables the development of efficient enzyme cascades by combining compatible enzymatic reactions in different arrangements under optimal conditions and the possibility of a cost‐benefit analysis prior to scale‐up. These features are of special interest for automation of enzymatic glycan synthesis. We here demonstrate a compartmented flow microreactor system using six magnetic enzyme beads (MEBs) for the synthesis of the non‐sulfated human natural killer cell‐1 (HNK‐1) glycan epitope. MEBs are assembled to build compartmented enzyme modules, consisting of enzyme cascades for the synthesis of uridine 5′‐ diphospho‐α‐ d‐galactose (UDP‐Gal) and uridine 5′‐diphospho‐α‐d‐glucuronic acid (UDP‐GlcA), the donor substrates for the Leloir glycosyltransferases β4‐galactosyltransferase and β3‐glucuronosyltransferase, respectively. Glycan synthesis was realized in an automated microreactor system by a cascade of individual enzyme module compartments each performing under optimal conditions. The products were analyzed inline by an MS‐system connected to the microreactor. The high synthesis yield of 96% for the non‐sulfated HNK‐1 glycan epitope indicates the excellent performance of the automated enzyme module cascade. Furthermore, combinations of other MEBs for nucleotide sugars synthesis with MEBs of glycosyltransferases have the potential for a fully automated and programmed glycan synthesis in a compartmented flow microreactor system.

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Probiotics Ameliorate Colon Epithelial Injury Induced by Ambient Ultrafine Particles Exposure
Authors: Li Xiaobo , Sun Hao , Li Bin , Zhang Xinwei , Cui Jian , Yun Jun , Yang Yiping , Zhang Li'e , Meng Qingtao , Wu Shenshen , Duan Junchao , Yang Hongbao , Wu Jiong , Sun Zhiwei , Zou Yunfeng , Chen Rui
Published: July 2019

Diesel exhaust particles (DEPs) are common airborne ultrafine particles (UFPs); however, few studies have examined their effects on the gastrointestinal tract. To investigate the interaction of gut microbiota and DEPs‐induced colonic injury, adult C57BL/6 mice are kept in whole‐body inhalation chambers and exposed to filtered room air (FRA) or DEPs (300 µg m−3) 1 h per day for 28 consecutive days. DEPs exposure results in colon epithelial injury with inflammatory cell infiltration and mucus depletion. Abundance of Lactobacillus in murine feces is transiently increased following 7‐day DEPs exposure and then decreased until the end of 28‐day exposure. A reduction of the colonic mucus layer thickness is observed in mice receiving gut microbiota from DEPs‐exposed mice. Mechanistically, RNA‐sequencing suggests disruption of the nitrogen metabolism pathway in DEPs‐exposed NCM460 cells. Upregulation of carbonic anhydrase 9 (CA9) expression levels is observed in epithelia following DEPs exposure both in vivo and in vitro. Oral administration of probiotics protects the mice against DEPS‐induced colon epithelial injury. The results strongly suggest the involvement of gut microbiota in response to DEPs exposure and subsequently epithelial injury in vivo. Supplementation with probiotic may be a potential way to protect against UFPs‐induced colon epithelial injury.
Ultralow Voltage Driving Circuits Based on Coplanar a‐InGaZnO TFTs with Photopatternable Ionic Polymer Gate Dielectric
Authors: Lee Dayoon , Kim Yongchan , Kim So Young , Kim Do Hwan , Lee Hojin
Published: July 2019

Coplanar amorphous indium gallium zinc oxide (a‐InGaZnO) thin film transistors (TFTs) with photopatternable ionic polymer gate dielectrics are fabricated and their inverter/shift register circuits are demonstrated. As a gate dielectric, ionic‐polyurethane acrylate (i‐PUA) can be patterned as small as 20 µm through conventional photolithography to achieve superior electrical properties at low operating voltages by the electric double layer formation, inducing ultrahigh channel capacitance. The fabricated solution‐processed a‐InGaZnO TFT with the i‐PUA gate dielectric shows excellent electrical characteristics such as a field‐effect mobility of 11.6 cm2 V−1 s−1, on–off ratio exceeding 107, and low threshold voltage of 0.3 V. It is also confirmed that the inverter and shift register can be fabricated based on the proposed coplanar a‐InGaZnO TFTs and are successfully functional even at 60 Hz operating frequency with driving voltage levels below 3 V.
Impact of Fullerene on the Photophysics of Ternary Small Molecule Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Karuthedath Safakath , Firdaus Yuliar , Liang Ru‐Ze , Gorenflot Julien , Beaujuge Pierre M. , Anthopoulos Thomas D. , Laquai Frédéric
Published: July 2019

Ternary organic solar cells (OSCs) are among the best‐performing organic photovoltaic devices to date, largely due to the recent development of nonfullerene acceptors. However, fullerene molecules still play an important role in ternary OSC systems, since, for reasons not well understood, they often improve the device performance, despite their lack of absorption. Here, the photophysics of a prototypical ternary small‐molecule OSC blend composed of the donor DR3, the nonfullerene acceptor ICC6, and the fullerene derivative PC71BM is studied by ultrafast spectroscopy. Surprisingly, it is found that after excitation of PC71BM, ultrafast singlet energy transfer to ICC6 competes efficiently with charge transfer. Subsequently, singlets on ICC6 undergo hole transfer to DR3, resulting in free charge generation. Interestingly, PC71BM improves indirectly the electron mobility of the ternary blend, while electrons reside predominantly in ICC6 domains as indicated by fast spectroscopy. The improved mobility facilitates charge carrier extraction, in turn leading to higher device efficiencies of the ternary compared to binary solar cells. Using the (photo)physical parameters obtained from (transient) spectroscopy and charge transport measurements, the device's current–voltage characteristics are simulated and it is demonstrated that the parameters accurately reproduce the experimentally measured device performance.
Stoichiometry identification of pharmaceutical reactions using the constrained dynamic response surface methodology
Authors: Dong Yachao , Georgakis Christos , Mustakis Jason , Hawkins Joel M. , Han Lu , Wang Ke , McMullen Jonathan P. , Grosser Shane T. , Stone Kevin
Published: July 2019

The dynamic response surface methodology (DRSM) estimates an input–output for time‐resolved measurements from design of experiments data sets. The improved DRSM algorithm, denoted by DRSM‐2c, has been recently presented by Dong et al. In this paper, we examine the identification of the underlying reaction stoichiometry. Given a number of stoichiometries proposed as candidates, we show how the use of DRSM enhances the ability of target factor analysis (TFA) to identify the reaction stoichiometries active in the mixture, using both the parallel approach and the sequential approach. Besides a projection score, we introduce statistical tests in the use of TFA to better identify the correct stoichiometries. Based on different data sets provided by industrial collaborators, we show that the improved DRSM algorithm is helpful for the stoichiometric identification.
Catalytic Asymmetric Syntheses of 2‐Aryl Chromenes
Authors: Yang Qingjing , Guo Rui , Wang Jun (Joelle)
Published: July 2019

Chiral chromene motifs are important heterocycles in numerous natural products and bioactive molecules. Among them, flavenes, flavanes, and flavanones, which consist of the 2‐aryl‐chromene skeleton are observed most frequently. As subgroups of flavonoids, they often occur in various plants and show many biological activities, such as antitumor, antioxidant, antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, and anticoagulant properties. This Minireview summarizes recent reports on catalytic asymmetric synthesis of flavenes, flavanes, and flavanones.
A new series of Schiff base derivatives bearing 1,2,3‐triazole: Design, synthesis, molecular docking, and α‐glucosidase inhibition
Authors: Nasli‐Esfahani Ensieh , Mohammadi‐Khanaposhtani Maryam , Rezaei Sepideh , Sarrafi Yaghoub , Sharafi Zeinab , Samadi Nasser , Faramarzi Mohammad Ali , Bandarian Fatemeh , Hamedifar Haleh , Larijani Bagher , Hajimiri Mirhamed , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: July 2019

A series of new Schiff bases bearing 1,2,3‐triazole 12a‒o was designed, synthesized, and evaluated as α‐glucosidase inhibitors. All the synthesized compounds showed promising inhibition against α‐glucosidase and were more potent than the standard drug acarbose. The kinetic study on the most potent compound 12n showed that this compound acted as a competitive α‐glucosidase inhibitor. The docking study revealed that the synthesized compounds interacted with the important residues in the active site of α‐glucosidase.
Polystyrene‐Supported Core–Shell Beads with Aluminium MOF Coating for Extraction of Organic Pollutants
Authors: Kuo Yu‐Ching , Pal Souvik , Li Fang‐Yu , Lin Chia‐Her
Published: July 2019

Aluminium‐based metal–organic framework (MOF) coatings on polystyrene bead surfaces were easily synthesized by reacting an intermediate metal hydroxide coating with an organic linker. Several different sizes of polystyrene beads were coated with aluminium metal hydroxide to construct Al@PS core–shell bead materials. The activated Al@PS core–shell beads were involved to make a homogenous MOF‐based layer in the presence of the organic linker. By using different sizes of the PS support the size of MOFs on the PS composites could be fine‐tuned under specific reaction conditions. MOF‐coated core–shell bead materials (Al‐1,4‐NDC@PS and MIL‐53(Al)@PS) were characterized using various analytical techniques. Al‐1,4‐NDC@PS and MIL‐53(Al)@PS were evaluated for solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) of hydrophobic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and hydrophilic non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), respectively. Al‐1,4‐NDC@PS‐1000 displayed high extraction recoveries ranging from 79.2 % to 99.8 % in the SPME of PAHs. Meanwhile, MIL‐53(Al)@PS‐1000 showed 85.9–99.0 % extraction recoveries in the SPME of NSAIDs. These results show that the proposed approach holds potential to extract organic analytes on an industrial scale.
Recent Advances in Aerosol‐Assisted Spray Processes for the Design and Fabrication of Nanostructured Metal Chalcogenides for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Kim Jin Koo , Jeong Sun Young , Lim Sae Hoon , Oh Jang Hyeok , Park Seung‐Keun , Cho Jung Sang , Kang Yun Chan
Published: July 2019

Increasing demand for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), one of the most feasible alternatives to lithium ion batteries (LIBs), has resulted because of their high energy density, low cost, and excellent cycling stability. Consequently, the design and fabrication of suitable electrode materials that govern the overall performance of SIBs are important. Aerosol‐assisted spray processes have gained recent prominence as feasible, scalable, and cost‐effective methods for preparing electrode materials. Herein, recent advances in aerosol‐assisted spray processes for the fabrication of nanostructured metal chalcogenides (e.g., metal sulfides, selenides, and tellurides) for SIBs, with a focus on improving the electrochemical performance of metal chalcogenides, are summarized. Finally, the improvements, limitations, and direction of future research into aerosol‐assisted spray processes for the fabrication of various electrode materials are presented.
Heterometallic 3d–4f Complexes as Single‐Molecule Magnets
Authors: Dey Atanu , Acharya Joydev , Chandrasekhar Vadapalli
Published: July 2019

Heterometallic 3d‐4f complexes are being investigated, for some time, as being useful in molecular magnetism, particularly as single‐molecule magnets (SMMs). This interest is primarily because of the possibility of an increased ligand‐mediated super‐exchange phenomenon between the 3d and 4f metal ions. Such an interaction, apart from bestowing a favorable ground‐state spin to the complex, also assists in reducing quantum tunneling of magnetization that is widely prevalent in SMMs making them to lose magnetization. However, assembling both 3d as well as 4f ions using same ligand system is challenging and involves the design of multi‐site coordination ligands with specific coordination compartments for the 3d and the 4f metal ions while at the same time allowing these disparate metal ions to be linked to each other through a bridging ligating atom. This review presents a summary of the 3d‐4f complexes primarily derived from the author's work while alluding to important examples from the literature. We also provide an outlook for the future design of such complexes.
Algebraic method of simplifying Boolean networks using semi‐tensor product of Matrices
Authors: Yan Yongyi , Yue Jumei , Chen Zengqiang
Published: July 2019

The huge state space of large Boolean networks makes analysis and synthesis difficult. This paper, using a new matrix analysis tool called semi‐tensor product of matrices, to explain a simplification method of Boolean networks in a mathematical manner. The idea consists of two steps. First, remove the nodes whose logical dynamics are independent of themselves directly; second, use the logical functions (LFs) of the removed nodes to substitute for their corresponding variables in the LFs of other nodes; such nodes evolve directly with both themselves and the removed nodes. We discover that the simplified and original Boolean networks share some important topological structures such as attractor cycles, steady states and paths. An algebraic algorithm is provided to find all of the cycles and steady states of simplified Boolean networks. Finally we apply the results to the metastatic melanoma network to check the effect of the simplification method.
Probing the optical properties and luminescence mechanism of a UV‐emitting SrBPO5:Ce3+ phosphor
Authors: Panda Sitakanta , Vinodkumar P. , Madhusoodanan U. , Panigrahi B.S.
Published: July 2019

Ce‐doped (1 × 10−5 to 3.0 mol%) SrBPO5 phosphors were synthesized using a conventional solid‐state reaction route at 1273 K in an air atmosphere. Phase and morphology of the samples were studied from powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns and scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs, respectively. The band gap energies of the pure and Ce‐doped SrBPO5 phosphors were calculated from the recorded diffuse reflectance spectra. Photoluminescence (PL) and Ce3+ lifetime were recorded at 300 and 77 K. Photoluminescence lifetime measurements revealed two‐lifetime values for Ce3+ at both 300 K (17 and 36 nsec) and 77 K (12 and 30 nsec), suggesting the presence of two different environments around Ce3+. Time‐resolved emission spectroscopy (TRES) studies confirmed the presence of Ce3+ in two different environments. In addition, SrBPO5:Ce exhibited intense UV emission, signifying its possible use as an efficient sensitizer for solid‐state lighting applications. The effect of γ‐irradiation on PL was also determined. Thermally stimulated luminescence (TSL) glow curves of the γ‐irradiated phosphor, along with trap parameters, dose–response, and the possible TSL mechanism were also investigated. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy was carried out to probe defects present in undoped and Ce‐doped SrBPO5.
Targeted sequencing of cancer‐related genes in nasopharyngeal carcinoma identifies mutations in the TGF‐β pathway
Authors: Chung An‐Ko , OuYang Chun‐Nan , Liu Hsuan , Chao Mei , Luo Ji‐Dung , Lee Cheng‐Yang , Lu Yen‐Jung , Chung I‐Che , Chen Lih‐Chyang , Wu Shao‐Min , Tsang Ngan‐Ming , Chang Kai‐Ping , Hsu Cheng‐Lung , Li Hsin‐Pai , Chang Yu‐Sun
Published: July 2019

Approximately, 25% of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients develop recurrent disease. NPC may involve relatively few genomic alterations compared to other cancers due to its association with Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV). We envisioned that in‐depth sequencing of tumor tissues might provide new insights into the genetic alterations of this cancer. Thirty‐three NPC paired tumor/adjacent normal or peripheral blood mononuclear cell samples were deep‐sequenced (>1000×) with respect to a panel of 409 cancer‐related genes. Newly identified mutations and its correlation with clinical outcomes were evaluated. Profiling of somatic mutations and copy number variations (CNV) in NPC tumors identified alterations in RTK/RAS/PI3K, NOTCH, DNA repair, chromatin remodeling, cell cycle, NF‐κB, and TGF‐β pathways. In addition, patients harbored CNV among 409 cancer‐related genes and missense mutations in TGF‐β/SMAD signaling were associated with poor overall survival and poor recurrence‐free survival, respectively. The CNV events were correlated with plasma EBV copies, while mutations in TGFBR2 and SMAD4 abrogate SMAD‐dependent TGF‐β signaling. Functional analysis revealed that the new TGFBR2 kinase domain mutants were incapable of transducing the signal, leading to failure of phosphorylation of SMAD2/3 and activation of downstream TGF‐β‐mediated cell growth arrest. This study provides evidence supporting CNV and dysregulated TGF‐β signaling contributes to exacerbating the NPC pathogenesis.
Psoralen attenuates bleomycin‐induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice through inhibiting myofibroblast activation and collagen deposition
Authors: Du Ming‐Yuan , Duan Jia‐Xi , Zhang Chen‐Yu , Yang Hui‐Hui , Guan Xin‐Xin , Zhong Wen‐Jing , Liu Yan‐Zhe , Li Zi‐Ming , Cheng Yu‐Rui , Zhou Yong , Guan Cha‐Xiang
Published: July 2019

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive disease characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix (ECM) and chronic inflammation with limited therapeutic options. Psoralen, a major active component extracted from Psoralea corylifolia L. seed, has several biological effects. However, the role of psoralen in IPF is still unclear. Here, we hypothesized that psoralen played an essential role in IPF in the inhibition of fibroblast proliferation and inflammatory response. A murine model of IPF was established by injecting bleomycin (BLM) intratracheally, and psoralen was administered for 14 days from the 7th to 21st day after BLM injection. Our results demonstrated that psoralen treatment reduced body weight loss and improved the survival rate of mice with IPF. Histological and immunofluorescent examination showed that psoralen alleviated BLM‐induced lung parenchymal inflammatory and fibrotic alteration. Furthermore, psoralen inhibited proliferation and collagen synthesis of mouse fibroblasts and partially reversed BLM‐induced expression of α‐smooth muscle actin at both the tissue and cell level. Moreover, psoralen decreased the expression of transforming growth factor‐β1, interleukin‐1β, and tumor necrosis factor‐α in the lungs of BLM‐stimulated mice. Our results reveale for the first time that psoralen exerts therapeutic effects against IPF in a BLM‐induced murine model.
Systematic review of alternative access for cardiac catheterization and percutaneous coronary intervention: Dorsal distal radial and ulnar artery catheterization
Authors: Kar Subrata
Published: July 2019

The femoral and radial arteries are the standard access routes for cardiac catheterization. In cases where the right radial artery has been previously utilized or is not suitable for repeat procedures, the left dorsal distal radial artery (anatomical snuff box) or the ulnar artery may be an alternative access site. In this systematic review, alternative access sites are described along with the techniques of cannulation, technical considerations, ultrasound imaging, clinical studies, and their complications. As we routinely perform more radial procedures, increased complications will arise, so it becomes important to gain expertise in alternative access for future coronary interventions. Such a systematic review has not been previously published so it will enhance the reader's knowledge of alternative access.
Lymphocytic gastritis in a patient with dyspepsia
Authors: Collins Katrina , Rezuke William N.
Published: July 2019

Lymphocytic gastritis (LG) is uncommon and presents histologically with a nonspecific inflammatory pattern. It is most often associated with celiac disease and Helicobacter pylori gastritis and is rarely associated with other conditions including lymphoma. LG is of clinical importance since its recognition should prompt further clinical evaluation for other disorders.
Enhancing Ligand‐Free Fe‐Catalyzed Aminocarbonylation of Alkynes by ZrF4
Authors: Huang Zijun , Dong Yanan , Li Yudong , Makha Mohamed , Li Yuehui
Published: July 2019

Zirconium fluoride was utilized to promote efficiently iron‐catalyzed aminocarbonylation between alkynes and amines without the use of extra ligands. In particular, this new system is applicable to a wide range of amine and alkyne substrates affording α,β‐unsaturated amides in good to excellent yields. Preliminary mechanistic studies reveal the activation model involving interactions of ZF4 with both iron catalyst and amine substrates.
Bi2S3/Ketjen Black as a Highly Efficient Bifunctional Catalyst for Long‐Cycle Lithium‐Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Xu Peng , Zhu Jiajia , Chen Congdi , Xie Jian , Wang Miao
Published: July 2019

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group of Prof. Miao Wang from Zhejiang University (China). The cover picture shows the discharge process of Li–O2 batteries catalyzed by Bi2S3/Ketjen black (KB) and the different growth modes of Li2O2 on the cathodes. It is found that the film‐like Li2O2 is deposited on Bi2S3 nanorods prior to on KB at a low discharge capacity. As the discharge process proceeds, the Li2O2 will deposit on both Bi2S3 and KB at a high capacity, where Li2O2 crystallizes into nanosheets on KB. The merit of this growth mode is that the electrode deactivation will be deferred and the side reactions will be refrained, leading to an excellent cycling performance. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/celc.201900191.
Pyrazolylazophenyl Ether‐Based Photoswitches: Facile Synthesis, (Near‐)Quantitative Photoconversion, Long Thermal Half‐Life, Easy Functionalization, and Versatile Applications in Light‐Responsive Systems
Authors: Zhang Zhao‐Yang , He Yixin , Zhou Ying , Yu Chunyang , Han Lu , Li Tao
Published: July 2019

Molecular photoswitches (e.g., azobenzenes) can reversibly interconvert between their thermodynamically stable and metastable isomers upon light irradiations. However, it remains challenging to integrate both high bidirectional photoconversion and long metastable‐state lifetime into a photoswitchable functionality. Here, we introduce pyrazolylazophenyl ethers (pzAzo ethers) as a class of azo photoswitches that provides quantitative (>98 %) trans–cis photoisomerization (365 nm light), near‐quantitative (95–96 %) reverse isomerization (532 nm light), and a long cis‐isomer half‐life of three months. They can be easily synthesized in high yields and readily functionalized at one or both sides with a broad scope of substituent groups. Molecular systems incorporating pzAzo ethers can be endowed with high responsiveness, robust reversibility, and long persistent metastable states. Such superior yet pragmatic azo switches hold high promise for upgraded photoregulation in many light‐responsive applications.
Recent trends in the age at diagnosis of colorectal cancer in the US National Cancer Data Base, 2004‐2015
Authors: Virostko John , Capasso Anna , Yankeelov Thomas E. , Goodgame Boone
Published: July 2019

Background

The incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) in adults younger than 50 years has increased in the United States over the past decades according to Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results data. National guidelines conflict over beginning screening at the age of 45 or 50 years.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of National Cancer Data Base data from 2004 to 2015. The Cochran‐Armitage test for trend was used to assess changes in the proportion of cases diagnosed at an age younger than 50 years.

Results

This study identified 130,165 patients diagnosed at an age younger than 50 years and 1,055,598 patients diagnosed at the age of 50 years or older. The proportion of the total number of patients diagnosed with CRC at an age younger than 50 years rose (12.2% in 2015 vs 10.0% in 2004; P < .0001). Younger adults presented with more advanced disease (stage III/IV; 51.6% vs 40.0% of those 50 years old or older). Among men, diagnosis at ages younger than 50 years rose only in non‐Hispanic whites (P < .0001), whereas among women, Hispanic and non‐Hispanic whites had increases in younger diagnoses over time (P < .05). All income quartiles had a proportional increase in younger adults over time (P < .001), with the highest income quartile having the highest proportion of younger cases. The proportion of younger onset CRC cases rose in urban areas (P < .001) but did not rise in rural areas.

Conclusions

The proportion of persons diagnosed with CRC at an age younger than 50 years in the United States has continued to increase over the past decade, and younger adults present with more advanced disease. These data should be considered in the ongoing discussion of screening guidelines.
Molecular Design of Core Substituted Naphthalene Diimides for the Exfoliation of Graphite to Graphene in Chloroform
Authors: Gharib Desi H. , Lock Peter , Moulton Simon E. , Malherbe Francois , Langford Steven J.
Published: July 2019

A significant challenge of liquid phase exfoliation (LPE) of graphite to yield graphene resides in the fact that most conventional solvents used are high boiling points and thus extremely difficult to eliminate, especially during processing of graphene into composites or films. Here, we advance the ability to produce high yield graphene in a low boiling point organic solvent, chloroform, using core‐substituted naphthalene diimides (cNDIs). Through the use of cNDIs it is possible to obtain high graphene concentrations of up to 0.13 mg/mL in chloroform. This yield represents a 69% improvement from graphene yields previously obtained in chloroform using unsubstituted NDIs. Characterisation of the products by UV‐Vis, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) support the use of cNDIs as an appropriate exfoliating agent in chloroform.
Excited‐State Topology Modifications of the Dihydroazulene Photoswitch Through Aromaticity
Authors: Skov Anders B. , Ree Nicolai , Gertsen Anders S. , Chabera Pavel , Uhlig Jens , Lissau Jonas S. , Nucci Luigi , Pullerits Tõnu , Mikkelsen Kurt V. , Brøndsted Nielsen Mogens , Sølling Theis I. , Hansen Thorsten
Published: July 2019

The front cover artwork is provided by the Hansen and Mikkelsen groups from the University of Copenhagen. The image shows how excited state aromaticity affects the photochemistry of dihydroazulene (DHA). Inducing aromaticity enhances an excited state barrier, so DHA can no longer reach the photoproduct. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cptc.201900088.
Sustainable Synthesis of Bright Green Fluorescent Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Quantum Dots from Alkali Lignin
Authors: Zhang Baohua , Liu Yijian , Ren Muqing , Li Weitao , Zhang Xiang , Vajtai Robert , Ajayan Pulickel M , Tour James M. , Wang Liang
Published: July 2019

Sustainable, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly biomass waste can be exploited for large‐scale production of carbon nanomaterials. Here, alkali lignin was employed as a precursor to synthesize carbon quantum dots (CQDs) with bright green fluorescence through a simple one‐pot route. The prepared CQDs had a size of 1.5–3.5 nm, were water‐dispersible, and showed wonderful biocompatibility, in addition to their excellent photoluminescence and electrocatalysis properties. These high‐quality CQDs could be used in a wide range of applications such as metal‐ion detection, cell imaging, and electrocatalysis. The wide range of biomass lignin feedstocks provide a green, low‐cost, and viable strategy for producing high‐quality fluorescent CQDs and enable the conversion of biomass waste into high‐value products that promote sustainable development of the economy and human society.