bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TWIST1 induces phenotypic switching of vascular smooth muscle cells by downregulating p68 and microRNA‐143/145
Authors: Zhang Jing , Guo Jie‐Ru , Wu Xian‐Li , Wang Xia , Zhu Zhi‐Ming , Wang Yong , Gu Xia , Fan Ye
Published: January 2021

TWIST1 is an important basic helix‐loop‐helix protein linked to multiple physiological and pathological processes. Although TWIST1 is believed to be involved in vascular pathogenesis, its effects on homeostasis of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) remain poorly understood. Here, we show that TWIST1 protein levels were significantly elevated during SMC phenotypic switching in vivo and in vitro. TWIST1 overexpression promoted phenotypic switching of SMCs, while siRNA targeting of TWIST1 prevented cell transition. Mechanistically, TWIST1 decreased the level of microRNA‐143/145, which governs smooth muscle marker gene transcription. In addition, TWIST1 repressed p68 mRNA and protein expression, a crucial modulator of SMC behavior and microRNA biogenesis. Our co‐immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated a previously unrecognized molecular interaction between TWIST1 and p68 protein. Finally, we found that TWIST1 triggered SMC phenotypic switching and suppressed microRNA‐143/145 expression by promoting the proteasomal degradation of p68. These data suggest a novel role of TWIST1 in the regulation of SMC homeostasis by modulating p68/microRNA‐143/145 axis.
Mean kids become mean adults: Trajectories of indirect aggression from age 10 to 22
Authors: Vaillancourt Tracy , Farrell Ann H.
Published: January 2021

Although much is known about the development of physical aggression across the lifespan, far less is known about the developmental pattern of indirect aggression from childhood to adulthood. Accordingly, we examined the self‐reported use of indirect aggression from age 10 to 22 in a randomly drawn sample of 704 Canadians. A person‐centered approach was used to capture intraindividual change and heterogeneity in development. Four childhood (age 10–18) indirect aggression trajectories were identified: (1) a very low decreasing group (64.8%), (2) a low decreasing group (26.0%), (3) a low‐to‐moderate increasing group (5.1%), and (4) a moderate increasing group (4.1%). There were more girls than boys in the moderate increasing group (75.9% vs. 24.1%). Two adulthood (age 19–22) indirect aggression trajectory groups were also identified: (1) a low decreasing group (82.6%), and (2) a moderate stable group (17.4%). No sex differences were found among adults' use across the two trajectories. When we examined the prediction of indirect aggression use in adulthood from indirect aggression use in childhood, we found that children who followed a moderate increasing trajectory from age 10 to 18 were nine times more likely to follow a moderate stable trajectory from age 19 to 22, while children who followed a low‐to‐moderate increasing trajectory across childhood were 14 times more likely to follow a moderate stable trajectory across adulthood (compared to the very low decreasing group). Given the negative impact indirect aggression has on others, intervening early to derail this pattern of abuse is justified.
Electrostatically Sprayed Nanostructured Electrodes for Energy Conversion and Storage Devices
Authors: Joshi Bhavana , Samuel Edmund , Kim Yong‐il , Yarin Alexander L. , Swihart Mark T. , Yoon Sam S.
Published: January 2021

The electrostatic spray method is a promising nonvacuum technique for efficient deposition of thin films from solutions or dispersions. The multitude of electrostatic spray process parameters, including surface tension, viscosity, and conductivity of the liquid, applied voltage, nozzle size, and flow rate, make electrostatic spray deposition very versatile for the morphological engineering of nanostructured films. The current state‐of‐the‐art in electrostatic spraying can produce exceptional morphologies. Such tailoring of morphologies is notably useful in electrochemical applications where high electrolyte‐accessible surface area often improves performance. Interesting morphologies of metal oxides and their composites are highlighted, including nanopillars, nanoferns, and porous microspheres produced by electrostatic spraying to enhance energy conversion and storage performance. The physics associated with the electrostatic spray process and morphology control using it are also presented. The manuscript highlights the potential of electrospray processing for producing thin films of controlled microstructure, from ultrasmooth layers in organic photovoltaics and perovskite photovoltaics to hierarchical nanostructured films for anodes and photoanodes. It aims to help researchers appreciate essential aspects of electrostatic spray deposition efficiency, process control, and morphology engineering for energy conversion (e.g., solar cell, fuel cell, and photoelectrochemical cell) and energy storage (e.g., lithium‐ion battery and supercapacitor) electrodes.
Highly Stable and Spectrally Tunable Gamma Phase RbxCs1–xPbI3 Gradient‐Alloyed Quantum Dots in PMMA Matrix through A Sites Engineering
Authors: Li Fei , Huang Sheng , Liu Xinyu , Bai Zelong , Wang Zhiteng , Xie Huidong , Bai Xuedong , Zhong Haizheng
Published: January 2021

Perovskite quantum dots are emerging as new generation functional materials for display applications. The issue of perovskite “red wall” has been an obstacle for their use in display technology. In this study, the fabrication of γ‐RbxCs1–xPbI3 gradient‐alloyed quantum dots in polymeric matrix through a rational designed in situ fabrication process is reported. The formation of γ‐RbxCs1–xPbI3 gradient‐alloyed structure can be explained by considering the lattice mismatch and solubility difference between γ‐CsPbI3 and RbPbI3. The photoluminescence emission of γ‐RbxCs1–xPbI3 gradient‐alloyed quantum dots can be tuned from 675 to 620 nm with full width at half maximum of 31 nm and maximum quantum yields up to 91%. Importantly, the packaged films retained about 95% of its original photoluminescence intensity after 1000 h aging at the test conditions of 60 °C, 90% RH and 40 °C, 90% RH with 3 mW cm−2, 455 nm blue light irradiation, respectively. By integrating a red and green dual emissive film with blue Mini LEDs, a LCD backlight of a color space of ≈130% of NTSC 1931 standard is achieved with matching rate of 100%.
High‐Density Frenkel Defects as Origin of N‐Type Thermoelectric Performance and Low Thermal Conductivity in Mg3Sb2‐Based Materials
Authors: Kanno Tsutomu , Tamaki Hiromasa , Yoshiya Masato , Uchiyama Hiroshi , Maki Sachiko , Takata Masaki , Miyazaki Yuzuru
Published: January 2021

Mg3Sb2‐based intermetallic compounds with exceptionally high thermoelectric performance exhibit unconventional n‐type dopability and anomalously low thermal conductivity, attracting much attention to the underlying mechanisms. To date, investigations have been limited to first‐principle calculations and thermodynamic analysis of defect formation, and detailed experimental analysis on crystal structure and phonon modes has not been achieved. Here, a synchrotron X‐ray diffraction study clarifies that, against a previous view of a simple crystal structure with a small unit cell, Mg3Sb2 is inherently a heavily disordered material with Frenkel defects, charge‐neutral defect complexes of cation vacancies and interstitials. Ionic charge neutrality preserved in Mg3Sb2 is responsible for exotic n‐type dopability, which is unachievable for other Zintl phase materials. The thermal conductivity of Mg3Sb2 exhibits deviation from the standard T−1 temperature dependency with strongly limited phonon transport due to a strain field. Inelastic X‐ray scattering measurement reveals enhanced phonon scattering induced by disorder. The results will draw renewed attention to crystal defects and disorder as means to explore new high‐performance thermoelectric materials.
Nitric Oxide Modulating Calcium Store for Ca2+‐Initiated Cancer Therapy
Authors: Chu Xu , Jiang Xingwu , Liu Yanyan , Zhai Shaojie , Jiang Yaqin , Chen Yang , Wu Jun , Wang Ya , Wu Yelin , Tao Xiaofeng , He Xinhong , Bu Wenbo
Published: January 2021

Ions are essential to body, but sometimes can evolve into weapons to attack and destroy cells without systematic toxicity and drug resistance. Inspired by nitric oxygen as neurotransmitter in mediating Ca2+ release, NO nanodonors with high photoreactivity and stability are constructed with upconversion nanoparticles (UCNPs) coated by zeolitic nitro‐/nitrile‐imidazole framework‐82 (ZIF‐82), capable of near‐infrared light (NIR) triggered NO generation and berbamine (BER) release, to achieve cancer therapy with the stored Ca2+ in cells. The spatial confinement effect of 2‐nitroimidazole in ZIF‐82 enables NO‐releasing with tunable release kinetics. NO turns on the ryanodine receptors overexpressed in cancer cells for abrupt Ca2+ elevation; meanwhile, berbamine (BER) turns Ca2+‐excretion pumps off to inhibit calcium efflux, resulting in intracellular Ca2+ overload induced apoptosis. This work provides the first example of regulating endogenous ions for cell killing, which holds promise as an effective cancer therapeutics that is complementary to traditional chemotherapeutics.
Fused Aromatic Network with Exceptionally High Carrier Mobility
Authors: Mahmood Javeed , Lee Eun Kwang , Noh Hyuk‐Jun , Ahmad Ishfaq , Seo Jeong‐Min , Im Yoon‐Kwang , Jeon Jong‐Pil , Kim Seok‐Jin , Oh Joon Hak , Baek Jong‐Beom
Published: January 2021

Recently, studies of 2D organic layered materials with unique electronic properties have generated considerable interest in the research community. However, the development of organic materials with functional electrical transport properties is still needed. Here, a 2D fused aromatic network (FAN) structure with a C5N basal plane stoichiometry is designed and synthesized, and thin films are cast from C5N solution onto silicon dioxide substrates. Then field‐effect transistors are fabricated using C5N thin flakes as the active layer in a bottom‐gate top‐contact configuration to characterize their electrical properties. The C5N thin flakes, isolated by polydimethylsiloxane stamping, exhibit ambipolar charge transport and extraordinarily high electron (996 cm2 V−1 s−1) and hole (501 cm2 V−1 s−1) mobilities, surpassing the performance of most pristine organic materials without doping. These results demonstrate their vast potential for applications in thin‐film optoelectronic devices.
Electrolyte‐Mediated Stabilization of High‐Capacity Micro‐Sized Antimony Anodes for Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhou Lin , Cao Zhen , Zhang Jiao , Cheng Hraoran , Liu Gang , Park Geon‐Tae , Cavallo Luigi , Wang Limin , Alshareef Husam N. , Sun Yang‐Kook , Ming Jun
Published: January 2021

Alloying anodes exhibit very high capacity when used in potassium‐ion batteries, but their severe capacity fading hinders their practical applications. The failure mechanism has traditionally been attributed to the large volumetric change and/or their fragile solid electrolyte interphase. Herein, it is reported that an antimony (Sb) alloying anode, even in bulk form, can be stabilized readily by electrolyte engineering. The Sb anode delivers an extremely high capacity of 628 and 305 mAh g–1 at current densities of 100 and 3000 mA g–1, respectively, and remains stable for more than 200 cycles. Interestingly, there is no need to do nanostructural engineering and/or carbon modification to achieve this excellent performance. It is shown that the change in K+ solvation structure, which is tuned by electrolyte composition (i.e., anion, solvent, and concentration), is the main reason for achieving this excellent performance. Moreover, an interfacial model based on the K+‐solvent‐anion complex behavior is presented. The electronegativity of the K+‐solvent‐anion complex, which can be tuned by changing the solvent type and anion species, is used to predict and control electrode stability. The results shed new light on the failure mechanism of alloying anodes, and provide a new guideline for electrolyte design that stabilizes metal‐ion batteries using alloying anodes.
Enhanced Redox Kinetics and Duration of Aqueous I2/I− Conversion Chemistry by MXene Confinement
Authors: Li Xinliang , Li Na , Huang Zhaodong , Chen Ze , Liang Guojin , Yang Qi , Li Mian , Zhao Yuwei , Ma Longtao , Dong Binbin , Huang Qing , Fan Jun , Zhi Chunyi
Published: January 2021

Weak binding and affinity between the conductive support and iodine species leads to inadequate electron transfer and the shuttle effect. Herein, redox kinetics and duration are significantly boosted by introducing a Nb2CTX host that is classified as a layered 2D Nb‐based MXene. With a facile electrodeposition strategy, initial I− ions are electrically driven to insert in the nanosized interlayers and are electro‐oxidized in situ. Linear I2 is firmly confined inside and benefits from the rapid charge supply from the MXene. Consequently, an aqueous Zn battery based on a Zn metal anode and ZnSO4 electrolyte delivers an ultraflat plateau at 1.3 V, which contributes to 84.5% of the capacity and 89.1% of the energy density. Record rate capability (143 mAh g−1 at 18 A g−1) and lifespan (23 000) cycles are achieved, which are far superior to those of all reported aqueous MXenes and I2–metal batteries. Moreover, the low voltage decay rate of 5.6 mV h−1 indicates its superior anti‐self‐discharge properties. Physicochemical analyses and density functional theory calculations elucidate that the localized electron transfer and trapping effect of the Nb2CTX MXene host are responsible for enhanced kinetics and suppressed shuttle behavior. This work can be extended to the fabrication of other I2–metal batteries with long‐life‐time expectations.
Efficient Luminescent Halide Quadruple‐Perovskite Nanocrystals via Trap‐Engineering for Highly Sensitive Photodetectors
Authors: Bai Tianxin , Yang Bin , Chen Junsheng , Zheng Daoyuan , Tang Zhe , Wang Xiaochen , Zhao Yang , Lu Ruifeng , Han Keli
Published: January 2021

The colloidal synthesis of a new type of lead‐free halide quadruple‐perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) is reported. The photoluminescence quantum yield and charge‐carrier lifetime of quadruple‐perovskite NCs can be enhanced by 96 and 77‐fold, respectively, via metal alloying. Study of charge‐carrier dynamics provide solid demonstrate that the PL enhancement is due to the elimination of ultrafast (1.4 ps) charge‐carrier trapping processes in the alloyed NCs. Thanks to the high crystallinity, low trap‐state density, and long carrier lifetime (193.4 μs), the alloyed quadruple‐perovskite NCs can serve as the active material for high‐performance photodetectors, which exhibit high responsivity (up to 0.98 × 104 A W−1) and an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 3 × 106%. These numbers are among the highest for perovskite‐NC‐based photodetectors.
Optical Gain of Lead Halide Perovskites Measured via the Variable Stripe Length Method: What We Can Learn and How to Avoid Pitfalls
Authors: Alvarado‐Leaños Ada Lili , Cortecchia Daniele , Folpini Giulia , Srimath Kandada Ajay Ram , Petrozza Annamaria
Published: January 2021

In the search for novel photonic materials, the recent focus on metal halide perovskites (MHPs) has revealed their promise to become groundbreaking low‐threshold, tunable coherent light sources. An accurate determination of the optical gain coefficient (g) would help to screen for materials and design highly efficient perovskite lasers. Nevertheless, contradictory numbers are continuously reported, making this figure of merit unreliable. To address this issue, the present work outlines a meticulous analysis to retrieve g of MAPbI3, based on the variable stripe‐length (VSL) method. This method is often preferred due to its apparent simplicity; however, one can arrive at incorrect conclusions without the adequate considerations. Therefore, here the experimental implementation and numerical treatment of the data are thoroughly discussed to establish a robust VSL methodology. The obtained power dependence and spectral gain evolution point to the role of electron–hole bimolecular recombination dictating the stimulated emission properties of MAPbI3, with a behavior resembling that of bulk GaAs. Beyond providing further knowledge on the procedure to carry out pertinent VSL measurements, this work also outlines a meticulous methodology to study the underlying photophysical gain properties of MHPs and consequently, to obtain a deeper understanding of the lasing properties of these complex materials.
Construction of N‐Boc‐2‐Alkylaminoquinazolin‐4(3H)‐Ones via a Three‐Component, One‐Pot Protocol Mediated by Copper(II) Chloride that Spares Enantiomeric Purity
Authors: Li Xiaoyu , Golden Jennifer E.
Published: January 2021

Chiral 2‐alkylquinazolinones are key synthetic intermediates, but their preparation in high optical purity is challenging. Thus, a multicomponent procedure integrating anthranilic acids, N‐Boc‐amino acids, and amines in the presence of methanesulfonyl chloride, N‐methylimidazole, and copper(II) chloride was developed to mildly afford N‐Boc‐2‐alkylaminoquinazolin‐4(3H)‐ones with excellent preservation of enantiomeric purity (>99% ee). Copper(II) chloride was essential to retaining enantiopurity, and reaction component structural changes were well tolerated, resulting in an efficient, all‐in‐one procedure that promotes sequential coupling, lactonization, aminolysis, and cyclization in good yields. The method was applied to the rapid assembly of four key intermediates used in the synthesis of high profile quinazolinones, including several PI3K inhibitor drugs.

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Potent In Vitro Peptide Antagonists of the Thrombopoietin Receptor as Potential Myelofibrosis Drugs
Authors: Szabo Monika , Kowalczyk Wioleta , Tarasova Anna , Andrade Jessica , Be Cheang Ly , Mulder Roger , White Jacinta , Meyer Adam G. , Schwab Kjiana E. , Cartledge Kellie , Le Tu C. , Arachchilage Anoja Wickrama , Wang Xiaoli , Hoffman Ronald , Nilsson Susan K. , Haylock David N. , Winkler David A.
Published: January 2021

Myelofibrosis (MF) is a life‐threatening blood cancer, with current drugs providing only symptomatic relief without altering the course of the disease. Thrombopoietin, an important cytokine for platelet production, signals via its receptor c‐Mpl that is upregulated in MF patients. Therefore, inhibition of this pathway may be a useful strategy to slow or stop progression of MF. Computational modeling and rational residue substitutions of a family of linear and cyclic peptides allow the identification of RQW as the essential motif for activity at the c‐Mpl receptor. The lead cyclic peptide 48 inhibits factor dependent Mpl cells with an IC50 of 49 × 10−9 m. In primary hematopoietic stem cells, 48 is able to stop the progression of CD34+ cells into megakaryocytes and another lead peptide has previously been shown to selectively ablate MF stem cells. These peptides represent important tools for further in vivo analysis and are an important step toward much needed disease‐modifying therapies for MF.
Copolymer of Phenylene and Thiophene toward a Visible‐Light‐Driven Photocatalytic Oxygen Reduction to Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Oka Kouki , Nishide Hiroyuki , Winther‐Jensen Bjorn
Published: January 2021

π‐Conjugated polymers including polythiophenes are emerging as promising electrode materials for (photo)electrochemical reactions, such as water reduction to H2 production and oxygen (O2) reduction to hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production. In the current work, a copolymer of phenylene and thiophene is designed, where the phenylene ring lowers the highest occupied molecular orbital level of the polymer of visible‐light‐harvesting thiophene entities and works as a robust catalytic site for the O2 reduction to H2O2 production. The very high onset potential of the copolymer for O2 reduction (+1.53 V vs RHE, pH 12) allows a H2O2 production setup with a traditional water‐oxidation catalyst, manganese oxide (MnOx), as the anode. MnOx is deposited on one face of a conducting plate, and visible‐light illumination of the copolymer layer formed on the other face aids steady O2 reduction to H2O2 with no bias assistance and a complete photocatalytic conversion rate of 14 000 mg (H2O2) gphotocat−1 h−1 or ≈0.2 mg (H2O2) cm−2 h−1.
3D Quantification of Microstructural Properties of LiNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 High‐Energy Density Electrodes by X‐Ray Holographic Nano‐Tomography
Authors: Nguyen Tuan‐Tu , Villanova Julie , Su Zeliang , Tucoulou Rémi , Fleutot Benoît , Delobel Bruno , Delacourt Charles , Demortière Arnaud
Published: January 2021

Despite significant progress in the field of tomography, capturing the carbon binder domain (CBD) morphology presented in the Li‐ion electrode remains challenging, due to its low attenuation coefficient. In this work, quantitative phase contrast X‐ray nano‐holotomography is used as a straightforward approach that provides a large reconstructed volume, where the CBD can be resolved along with the active materials and the pore space. As a result, a complete quantitative analysis of the microstructures of three LiNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 high energy density electrodes, including the characterization of each phase separately along with the statistical quantification of their inter‐connectivity at particle scale, is performed. The microstructural heterogeneities are quantified and comparison between different electrodes is done. The results from this work suggest reasons for the negative impacts of the CBD excess on the electrode performance at high C‐rates. Those results are true in the case of high energy density electrodes, and are due to the reduction of the electrochemical active surface area. This sheds light on the optimization of the electrode design to improve the power rate of high energy density electrodes.
Multi‐chambered, carbon‐coated Ni0.4Fe2.6O4 nanoparticle superlattice microspheres for boosting water oxidation reaction
Authors: Li Mingzhong , Deng Yuwei , Wu Guanhong , Xue Shuqing , Yan Yancui , Liu Zihan , Zou Jinxiang , Yang Dong , Dong Angang
Published: January 2021

Developing active and robust non‐noble‐metal‐based electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is of vital practical significance for accelerating the kinetics of water splitting. Here, a novel double emulsion template method is proposed to design and prepare hierarchically multichambered, carbon‐coated Ni0.4Fe2.6O4 nanoparticle superlattice microspheres (M‐NFO@C‐NSMs) for the highly efficient oxygen evolution. The high‐temperature calcination under inert gas enables an improved electrochemical property by rationally transforming the long‐chain organic capping ligands into partially graphitized uniform carbon coatings. More importantly, benefiting from the unique hierarchical superstructure with macro‐/meso‐/microporosities and three‐dimensional continuous conductive carbon frameworks, M‐NFO@C‐NSMs exhibit comprehensively enhanced OER activity in a dilute alkaline electrolyte as compared to their solid counterparts and most spinel‐based electrocatalysts reported to date. Notably, the collective property of supraparticles endowed M‐NFO@C‐NSMs with superior long‐term cyclic stability. This work sheds light on the sophisticated design of functionalized supraparticles for efficient water splitting.
Parenteral iron therapy and phosphorus homeostasis: A review
Authors: Kalantar‐Zadeh Kamyar , Ganz Tomas , Trumbo Henry , Seid Melvin H. , Goodnough Lawrence T. , Levine Michael A.
Published: January 2021

Phosphorus has an essential role in cellular and extracellular metabolism; maintenance of normal phosphorus homeostasis is critical. Phosphorus homeostasis can be affected by diet and certain medications; some intravenous iron formulations can induce renal phosphate excretion and hypophosphatemia, likely through increasing serum concentrations of intact fibroblast growth factor 23. Case studies provide insights into two types of hypophosphatemia: acute symptomatic and chronic hypophosphatemia, while considering the role of pre‐existing conditions and comorbidities, medications, and intravenous iron. This review examines phosphorus homeostasis and hypophosphatemia, with emphasis on effects of iron deficiency and iron replacement using intravenous iron formulations.
Traumatic brain injury alters neuropsychiatric symptomatology in all‐cause dementia
Authors: Bray Michael J. C. , Richey Lisa N. , Bryant Barry R. , Krieg Akshay , Jahed Sahar , Tobolowsky William , LoBue Christian , Peters Matthew E.
Published: January 2021

Introduction

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) may alter the course of neuropsychiatric symptom (NPS) onset during dementia development. The connection among TBI, NPS, and dementia progression is of increasing interest to researchers and clinicians.

Methods

Incidence of NPS was examined in participants with normal cognition who progressed to all‐cause dementia based on whether TBI history was present (n = 130) or absent (n = 849). Survival analyses were used to examine NPS incidence across 7.6 ± 3.0 years of follow‐up.

Results

Participants with TBI history had increased prevalence and incidence of apathy (44.7% vs 29.9%, P = .0062; HRadj. = 1.708, P = .0018) and motor disturbances (17.2% vs 9.5%, P = .0458; HRadj. = 2.023, P = .0168), controlling for demographics and type of dementia diagnosis. Earlier anxiety onset was associated with TBI (692 days prior to dementia diagnosis vs 161 days, P = .0265).

Discussion

History of TBI is associated with increased risk for and earlier onset of NPS in the trajectory of dementia development.
Multiple Nonvolatile Resistance States Tuned by Electric Pulses in the Hysteresis Temperature Range of 1T‐TaS2
Authors: Ma Yongchang , Wu Dong , Li Yajun , Chen Rui , Lu Cuimin
Published: January 2021

Compared with systematically investigated resistance switching, nonvolatile multi‐level memristors are highly desired due to their stochastic or analog ability for artificial intelligence. Here, electric‐pulses‐induced responses of 1T‐TaS2 crystals in hysteresis temperature range are reported. These investigations clearly show that the resistance of the system can be precisely tuned by electric pulses (∼100 V cm−1), forming multiple nonvolatile states in less than 200 ns. The origin of these states and the occurrence of the obstinate triclinic phase activated by pulses are discussed and simulated, implying the rearrangements of the textures composed of commensurate charged‐density‐wave domains separated by discommensurabilities. The multiple nonvolatile resistance states activated conveniently by electric pulses may shed light on the potential applications of artificial synapse devices.
Palladium nanoparticles capped by thermoresponsive N‐heterocyclic carbene: Two different approaches for a comparative study
Authors: Gayathri Varnakumar , Pentela Nagaraju , Samanta Debasis
Published: January 2021

In this article, we reported the synthesis of thermoresponsive palladium nanoparticles, stabilized by polymer‐tagged N‐heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs), using two different approaches. In one case, the nanoparticles were synthesized from the NHC–palladium complex, while in other cases, palladium nanoparticles and NHC were synthesized simultaneously for the in situ cappings of the nanomaterial. While the thermoresponsive nature of the nanomaterials was observed in both cases, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) analyses showed distinct characteristics in the thermal behavior of those materials. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopic (HRTEM) and scanning electron microscopic studies separately revealed temperature‐dependent aggregation in both cases although separate patterns were observed when the nanomaterials were synthesized using different approaches. Finally, both the nanomaterials were successfully used as a recyclable catalyst for Suzuki reactions in an aqueous medium, with slightly different catalytic activity, plausibly due to variations in the size of the nanoparticles.
The properties and suitability of commercial bio‐based epoxies for use in fiber‐reinforced composites
Authors: Terry Joseph S. , Taylor Ambrose C.
Published: January 2021

Environmental concerns about fiber composites are leading manufacturers to consider bio‐based alternatives to petroleum‐derived epoxies. Such a substitution is hindered by a lack of information, so commercially available bio‐based epoxy systems have been compared, their mechanical properties measured, and fiber composites produced by vacuum infusion. Most high bio‐based content resins for infusion use conventional curing agents. Bio‐based content is generally added using Epicerol, but also other bio‐based precursors. A diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A system produced using Epicerol achieves 20 % bio‐based content, but achieves higher contents when Epicerol is used in diluents. Fully bio‐based monomers can be deleterious to the mechanical properties and glass transition temperature (Tg), so are used sparingly. The most‐promising systems (28 % to 43 % bio‐based) compare well to conventional epoxies, possessing good strength, stiffness, toughness, and a reasonableTg. These partially bio‐based epoxies offer an immediate lower‐carbon alternative for vacuum‐infused composites in marine, sports equipment, and wind energy.
PCL/collagen blends prepared by solution blow spinning as potential materials for skin regeneration
Authors: Lorente Miguel A. , Corral Angélica , González‐Benito Javier
Published: January 2021

Solution blow spinning (SBS), is used to prepare biocompatible fibrous materials based on poly‐ε‐caprolactone (PCL), modified with collagen. Materials with different compositions in terms of collagen are prepared. Structure, morphology, topography, wettability behavior, and cytotoxicity are studied in order to investigate the potentiality of these materials for medical applications in the field of tissue repairing and regeneration. Structure is studied by Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, morphology by scanning electron microscopy, topography by optical profilometry and wettability behavior by contact angle measurements. The addition of small amounts of collagen to PCL by SBS can induce important variations in the morphology and topography of the materials that, in turns, lead to changes in the wettability behavior and ability ofHaCatcells adhesion and proliferation. The analysis of surface characteristics together with the use of a model based on mats constituted by cylinders disposed perpendicularly to each other point out that, under the compositions considered, the main factor leading to higher adhesion and proliferation of cells on the PCL/collagen is the presence of more available surface area.
Novel Pet‐Degrading Enzymes: Structure‐Function from a Computational Perspective
Authors: Berselli Alessandro , Ramos Maria J. , Menziani Maria Cristina
Published: January 2021

The bacterium strain Ideonella sakaiensis 201‐F6 is able to hydrolyze low‐crystallinity PET films at 30 °C due to two enzymes named PETase and MHETase. Since its discovery, many efforts have been dedicated to elucidating the structure and features of those two enzymes, and various authors have highlighted the necessity to optimize both the substrate binding site and the global structure in order to enhance the stability and catalytic activity of these PET biocatalysts so as to make them more suitable for industrial applications. In this review, the strategies adopted by different research groups to investigate the structure and functionality of both PETase and MHETase in depth are described, emphasizing the advantages provided by the use of computational methods to complement and drive experiments. Subsequently, the modifications implemented with protein engineering are discussed. The versatility of the enzymes secreted by I. sakaiensis enables the prediction that they will find several applications in the disposal of PET debris, encouraging a prioritization of efforts in this prolific research field.
Potential surrogate quantitative immunomodulatory potency assay for monitoring human umbilical cord‐derived mesenchymal stem cells production
Authors: Teng Sen‐Wen , Sung Hsin‐Yu , Wen Yu‐Chieh , Chen Ssu‐Yu , Lovel Ronald , Chang Wen‐Ying , Wu Tang Bo‐Chung , Hsuan Yogi Cheng‐Yo , Lin Willie
Published: January 2021

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) play an important role as immune modulator through interaction with several immune cells, including macrophages. In this study, the immunomodulatory potency of human umbilical cord‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUC‐MSCs) was demonstrated in the in vivo middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo)‐induced brain injury rat model and in vitro THP‐1‐derived macrophages model. At 24 h after induction of MCAo, hUC‐MSCs was administered via tail vein as a single dose. Remarkably, hUC‐MSCs could inhibit M1 polarization and promote M2 polarization of microglia in vivo after 14 days induction of MCAo. Compared with THP‐1‐derived macrophages which had been stimulated by lipopolysaccharide, the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interferon‐γ inducible protein (IP‐10), were significantly reduced in the presence of hUC‐MSCs. Moreover, the secretion of anti‐inflammatory cytokine, interleukin‐10 (IL‐10), was significantly increased after cocultured with hUC‐MSCs. Prostaglandins E2 (PGE2), secreted by hUC‐MSCs, is one of the crucial immunomodulatory factors and could be inhibited in the presence of COX2 inhibitor, NS‐398. PGE2 inhibition suppressed hUC‐MSCs immunomodulatory capability, which was restored after addition of synthetic PGE2, establishing the minimum amount of PGE2 required for immunomodulation. In conclusion, our data suggested that PGE2 is a crucial potency marker involved in the therapeutic activity of hUC‐MSCs through macrophages immune response modulation and cytokines regulation. This study provides the model for the development of a surrogate quantitative potency assay of immunomodulation in stem cells production.
Disparate impact of severe aortic and mitral regurgitation on left ventricular dilation
Authors: Schott Jason P. , Dixon Simon R. , Goldstein James A.
Published: January 2021

In asymptomatic severe aortic (AR) and mitral regurgitation (MR), left ventricular (LV) dimension criteria were established to guide timing of valve replacement to prevent irreversible LV dysfunction. Given both lesions are primary LV volume overload ''leaks'', it might be expected that both lesions would induce similar impact on the LV and result in equivalent dimension criteria for intervention. However, the dimension‐based intervention criteria for AR versus MR (developed through natural history studies), differ markedly. The pathophysiological foundations for such discordance have neither been fully elucidated nor emphasized. This case‐based treatise compares the two regurgitant lesions with respect to: (a) ''total regurgitant circuits''; (b) ''driving pressures'' resulting in LV volume overload from each respective ''leak''; and (c) volume and afterload wall stresses imposed on the LV.Key points

The ''total circuits'' of volume overload differ: The AR circuit includes the LV and systemic vasculature, whereas MR includes the LV ejecting into the left atrium/pulmonary veins and systemic circulation.

The ''driving pressure'' of regurgitation and afterload are high with AR and low with MR.

Differing ''total circuits'' and ''driving pressures'' impose disparate wall stresses upon the LV. Parallel and serial sarcomere replication occurs in AR, while only serial replication occurs in MR.

It therefore follows that for regurgitation of similar severities, AR results in greater LV dilation at the point of irreversible myocardial dysfunction compared to MR. These considerations may explain, at least in part, the disparate dimension criteria employed for valve intervention for severe AR vs MR.
Colonic obstruction secondary to incarcerated transiliac bone hernia
Authors: Seretis Charalampos , Marimuthu Kalimuthu , Piramanayagam Balasubramaniam
Published: January 2021

Transiliac bone hernias are a rare cause of intestinal obstruction, and high clinical suspicion is required for their diagnosis.
800 Gram Infant with A bronchial foreign body
Authors: Alruwaili Abdulmajeed , Payson Allison , Tirado Yamilet
Published: January 2021

Report of successful foreign body removal in a micro‐preemie infant utilizing instruments outside of the normal armamentarium. Challenges encountered during the removal process of the foreign body and technique utilized are explained with the intention of providing steps that can be reproducible in a similar clinical setting.
Silica‐Templated Metal Organic Framework‐Derived Hierarchically Porous Cobalt Oxide in Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Nanomaterials for Electrochemical Glucose Sensing
Authors: Sun Qiuhong , Ding Junyang , Chen Dandan , Han Cheng , Jiang Minghua , Li Ting‐Ting , Hu Yue , Qian Jinjie , Huang Shaoming
Published: January 2021

As glucose molecules are well recognized to supplement the main energy source of living cells as the intermediate product of metabolism in human body, it is of great importance to develop a convenient and quantitative glucose sensor with high selectivity, high sensitivity, and high accuracy. In this work, a simple and novel strategy has been developed to obtain a high‐performance non‐enzymatic glucose sensor by constructing hierarchically porous Co3O4 embedded into the metal organic framework (MOF)‐derived N‐doped carbon matrix based on a SiO2 template, denoted as ST‐Co3O4. The removal of the SiO2 template creates abundant voids and a large specific surface for the obtained layered mesoporous ST‐Co3O4 composite, which enhances the electron transfer kinetics and the ability to adsorb biomolecules, further greatly improving the surface reaction efficiency and promoting the improvement of its catalytic performance. Compared with pure Co3O4 nanoparticles from ZIF‐67 without a silica template, as‐obtained ST‐Co3O4 shows a good mesoporous environment, provides more active sites, and makes the non‐enzymatic glucose sensor exhibit high sensitivity (2860 μA mM−1 cm−2) and fast response time (<1 s) over a wide linear glucose concentration range of 1.0–1300.0 μM. Additionally, the ST‐Co3O4/CC electrode demonstrates good anti‐interference, high repeatability, and robust stability (>3000 s), which can repeatedly detect the glucose species in real human serum (RSD<9.69 %, n=3), and shows broad prospects in non‐enzymatic sensors.
PROTOCOL: Water, sanitation and hygiene for reducing childhood mortality in low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Sharma Waddington Hugh , Cairncross Sandy
Published: January 2021

Respiratory tract infections and diarrhoea are the two biggest killers of children in low income contexts. They are closely related to access to, and use of improved water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). However, there is no high quality systematic review that quantifies the effect of WASH improvements on childhood mortality. Existing systematic reviews of WASH improvements measure effects on morbidity, under the (often implicit) assumption that morbidity is closely correlated with mortality. This is at least partly because the impact evaluations on which they are based are only designed to detect changes in morbidity with statistical precision, whereas mortality is a relatively rare outcome. The proposed review will address this evidence synthesis gap, using the greater statistical power of meta‐analysis to pool findings across studies.
Remote magnetic‐guided ablation for three origins of idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias with right bundle branch block and superior axis
Authors: Li Xiang , Shang Wentao , Zhang Ning , Xie Yun , Wei Yue , Lin Changjian , Ling Tianyou , Chen Kang , Pan Wenqi , Wu Liqun , Bao Yangyang , Jin Qi
Published: January 2021

Background

Idiopathic ventricular arrhythmias (IVAs) with right bundle branch block (RBBB) and superior axis commonly originate from posterior mitral annulus (PMA), the left ventricular (LV) posterior fascicle (LPF), and the LV posterior papillary muscles (PPM).

Hypothesis

Remote magnetic navigation (RMN)‐guided ablation might be safe and effective for these three origins of IVAs.

Methods

Thirty consecutive IVA patients with RBBB and superior axis (11 MPA‐IVAs, 11 LPF‐IVAs, and 8 PPM‐IVAs) were included in this study. Electrical mapping and ablation with RMN were performed in the LV through a trans‐septal approach. Navigation index, defined as the ratio of total radiofrequency (RF) time and the time from first burn to last burn, was used to determine the efficiency of RMN‐guided ablation.

Results

The overall acute success rate was achieved in 93% (PMA, 100%; LPF, 91%; PPM, 88%; p > 0.05). No complication occurred in this study. The procedure time of PPM‐IVAs group was 34 and 14 min longer when compared with MPA‐IVAs and LPF‐IVAs group, respectively, without an increase of X‐ray time. The mean navigation index was 0.45 ± 0.20. The PPM‐IVAs group had an underperforming navigation index value (0.29 ± 0.11) (p < 0.01), as longer RF time was required in the PPM‐IVAs group.

Conclusions

RMN‐guided ablation can achieve a high acute success rate for IVAs with RBBB and superior axis. The lower navigation index for PPM‐IVAs indicated that increasing the RF time and improving the catheter contact should be considered when using RMN.
Nonaspirin nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs and gastric cancer risk after Helicobacter pylori eradication: A territory‐wide study
Authors: Li Bofei , Cheung Ka Shing , Wong Ian Yu‐Hong , Leung Wai Keung , Law Simon
Published: January 2021

Background

Despite Helicobacter pylori (HP) eradication, individuals can still develop gastric cancer (GC). Prior studies have demonstrated that nonaspirin nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NA‐NSAIDs) reduce the risk of GC, but this may be caused by immortal time bias and failure to adjust for HP status. The objective of this study was to investigate whether NA‐NSAIDs reduced the risk of GC in patients who undergo H. pylori eradication.

Methods

Adult patients who had received clarithromycin‐based triple therapy between 2003 and 2016 were identified from a territory‐wide health care database. Exclusion criteria included prior GC or GC diagnosed <6 months after HP eradication, prior gastrectomy, gastric ulcer after HP eradication, and failure of triple therapy. Covariates included age, sex, prior peptic ulcer disease, other comorbidities, and concurrent medications (aspirin, proton pump inhibitors, statins, and metformin). To avoid immortal time bias, NA‐NSAID use (≥90 days) was treated as a time‐dependent variable in a multivariable Cox model (time‐dependent analysis). Time‐independent analysis was also performed.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 8.9 years (interquartile range, 5.4‐12.6 years), 364 of 92,017 patients (0.4%) who underwent HP eradication developed GC. NA‐NSAID use was associated with a significant reduction in the risk of GC in time‐fixed analysis (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR], 0.65; 95% CI, 0.47‐0.90), but not in time‐dependent multivariable analysis (aHR, 1.35; 95% CI, 0.97‐1.87). Time‐dependent subgroup analyses also did not indicate any significant association between NA‐NSAID use and either cardia GC (aHR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.27‐2.06) or noncardia GC (aHR, 1.28; 95% CI, 0.83‐1.98).

Conclusions

NA‐NSAID use was not associated with a reduced risk of GC among patients who underwent HP eradication. The chemopreventive effect of NA‐NSAIDs observed in prior studies may have been confounded by immortal time bias.
Derivation of Mesenchymal Stromal Cells from Ovine Umbilical Cord Wharton's Jelly
Authors: Carreras‐Sánchez Irene , López‐Fernández Alba , Rojas‐Márquez Raquel , Vélez Roberto , Aguirre Màrius , Vives Joaquim
Published: January 2021

The methods described herein allow for the isolation and expansion of fibroblastic‐like ovine Wharton's jelly‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells (oWJ‐MSC) that, similarly to their human counterparts, adhere to standard plastic surfaces in culture; show a mesenchymal profile for specific surface antigens (i.e., positive for CD44 and CD166); and lack expression of endothelial (CD31) and hematopoietic (CD45) markers as well as major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class‐II. Homogeneous cell cultures result from a two‐phase bioprocess design that starts with the isolation of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) from the Wharton's jelly of ovine umbilical cords up to a first step of cryopreservation. The second phase allows for further expansion of ovine WJ‐MSC up to sufficient numbers for further studies. Overall, this methodology encompasses a 2‐week bioprocess design that encompasses two cell culture passages ensuring sufficient cells for the generation of a Master Cell Bank. Further thawing and scale expansion results in large quantities of oWJ‐MSC that can be readily used in proof of efficacy and safety studies in the preclinical development stage of the development of cell‐based medicines. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

This article was corrected on 18 July 2022. See the end of the full text for details.

Basic Protocol 1: Isolation and expansion of ovine mesenchymal stromal cells from Wharton's jelly of the umbilical cord

Basic Protocol 2: Characterization of ovine mesenchymal stromal cells

Basic Protocol 3: Growth profile determination of ovine mesenchymal stromal cells from Wharton's jelly
Chemical Synthesis of a Locked Nucleic Acid–Substituted Dinucleotide Cap Analog
Authors: Shanmugasundaram Muthian , Senthilvelan Annamalai , Kore Anilkumar R.
Published: January 2021

This article describes a reliable and efficient method for synthesis of the dinucleotide cap analog m7(LNA)G[5′]ppp[5′]G containing a locked nucleic acid moiety. The required LNA intermediate for the final coupling reaction, m7(LNA)GDP, is prepared in six steps starting from 5′‐DMTr‐N‐DMF LNA guanosine. The overall reaction involves removal of DMTr and DMF groups, 5′ monophosphorylation, imidazolide formation, diphosphorylation, and regioselective m7 methylation. The final coupling reaction of m7(LNA)GDP with ImGMP in the presence of zinc chloride as a catalyst affords m7(LNA)G[5′]ppp[5′]G in 59% yield. © 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

This article was corrected on 18 July 2022. See the end of the full text for details.

Basic Protocol: Synthesis of an LNA‐substituted dinucleotide cap analog

Support Protocol: Preparation of the tris(tributylammonium) phosphate linker