bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin D in the Foot and Ankle: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Malhotra Karan , Baggott Paul J. , Livingstone Julian
Published: October 2019

Background

Vitamin D is an essential vitamin that targets several tissues and organs and plays an important role in calcium homeostasis. Vitamin D deficiency is common, particularly at higher latitudes, where there is reduced exposure to ultraviolet B radiation. We reviewed the role of vitamin D and its deficiency in foot and ankle pathology.

Methods

The effects of vitamin D deficiency have been extensively studied, but only a small portion of the literature has focused on the foot and ankle. Most evidence regarding the foot and ankle consists of retrospective studies, which cannot determine whether vitamin D deficiency is, in fact, the cause of the pathologies being investigated.

Results

The available evidence suggests that insufficient vitamin D levels may result in an increased incidence of foot and ankle fractures. The effects of vitamin D deficiency on fracture healing, bone marrow edema syndrome, osteochondral lesions of the talus, strength around the foot and ankle, tendon disorders, elective foot and ankle surgery, and other foot and ankle conditions are less clear.

Conclusions

Based on the available evidence, we cannot recommend routine testing or supplementation of vitamin D in patients with foot and ankle pathology. However, supplementation is cheap, safe, and may be of benefit in patients at high risk for deficiency. When vitamin D is supplemented, the evidence suggests that calcium should be co-supplemented. Further high-quality research is needed into the effect of vitamin D in the foot and ankle. Cost-benefit analyses of routine testing and supplementation of vitamin D for foot and ankle pathology are also required.
Dynamic ubiquitination determines transcriptional activity of the plant immune coactivator NPR1
Authors: Skelly Michael J , Furniss James J , Grey Heather , Wong Ka-Wing , Spoel Steven H
Published: October 2019

Activation of systemic acquired resistance in plants is associated with transcriptome reprogramming induced by the unstable coactivator NPR1. Immune-induced ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of NPR1 are thought to facilitate continuous delivery of active NPR1 to target promoters, thereby maximising gene expression. Because of this potentially costly sacrificial process, we investigated if ubiquitination of NPR1 plays transcriptional roles prior to its proteasomal turnover. Here we show ubiquitination of NPR1 is a progressive event in which initial modification by a Cullin-RING E3 ligase promotes its chromatin association and expression of target genes. Only when polyubiquitination of NPR1 is enhanced by the E4 ligase, UBE4, it is targeted for proteasomal degradation. Conversely, ubiquitin ligase activities are opposed by UBP6/7, two proteasome-associated deubiquitinases that enhance NPR1 longevity. Thus, immune-induced transcriptome reprogramming requires sequential actions of E3 and E4 ligases balanced by opposing deubiquitinases that fine-tune activity of NPR1 without strict requirement for its sacrificial turnover.
In vivo acute toxicity evaluation and in vitro molecular mechanism study of antiproliferative activity of a novel indole Schiff base β-diiminato manganeseIII complex in hormone-dependent and triple negative breast cancer cells
Authors: Farghadani Reyhaneh , Seifaddinipour Maryam , Rajarajeswaran Jayakumar , Abdulla Mahmood Ameen , Mohd Hashim Najihah Binti , Khaing Si Lay , Salehen Nur’ain Binti
Published: October 2019

Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. Recently, increasing attention has been paid to the anticancer effects of transition metal complexes of indole Schiff bases. β-diiminato ManganeseIII complex has shown promising cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction against MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. In this study, time- and dose- dependent inhibitory activity were evaluated using MTT assay after 48 h and 72 h exposure time. In addition, median effect analysis was conducted according to Chou–Talalay method to investigate whether MnIII complex has synergistic effect in combination with chemotherapeutic drugs on inhibiting breast cancer cell growth. The molecular mechanisms underlying its potent antiproliferative effect was determined through bioluminescent caspase-3/7, -8 and -9 activity assays and quantitative expression analysis of cell cycle- and apoptosis-related genes. Furthermore, safety evaluation of MnIII complex was assessed through the acute oral toxicity test in in vivo model. The MTT assay results revealed that it potently reduced the viability of MCF-7 (IC50 of 0.63 ± 0.07 µg/mL for 48 h and 0.39 ± 0.08 µg/mL for 72 h) and MDA-MB-231 (1.17 ± 0.06 µg/mL for 48 h, 1.03 ± 0.15 µg/mL for 72 h) cells in dose- and time-dependent manner. Combination treatment also enhanced the cytotoxic effects of doxorubicin but not tamoxifen on inhibiting breast cancer cell growth. The involvement of intrinsic and extrinsic pathway in apoptosis induction was exhibited through the increased activity of caspase-9 and caspase-8, respectively, leading to enhanced downstream executioner caspase-3/7 activity in treated MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. In addition, gene expression analysis revealed that MnIII complex exerts its antiproliferative effect via up-and down-regulation of p21 and cyclin D1, respectively, along with increased expression of Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, TNF-α, initiator caspase-8 and -10 and effector caspase-3 in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. However, the results did not show increased caspase-8 activity in treated MCF-7 cells. Furthermore, in vivo acute oral toxicity test revealed no signs of toxicity and mortality in treated animal models compared to the control group. Collectively, the promising inhibitory effect and molecular and mechanistic evidence of antiproliferative activity of MnIII complex and its safety characterization have demonstrated that it may have therapeutic value in breast cancer treatment worthy of further investigation and development.
Integrative transcriptome data mining for identification of core lncRNAs in breast cancer
Authors: Zhang Xiaoming , Zhuang Jing , Liu Lijuan , He Zhengguo , Liu Cun , Ma Xiaoran , Li Jie , Ding Xia , Sun Changgang
Published: October 2019

Background

Cumulative evidence suggests that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play an important role in tumorigenesis. This study aims to identify lncRNAs that can serve as new biomarkers for breast cancer diagnosis or screening.

Methods

First, the linear fitting method was used to identify differentially expressed genes from the breast cancer RNA expression profiles in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). Next, the diagnostic value of all differentially expressed lncRNAs was evaluated using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Then, the top ten lncRNAs with the highest diagnostic value were selected as core genes for clinical characteristics and prognosis analysis. Furthermore, core lncRNA-mRNA co-expression networks based on weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were constructed, and functional enrichment analysis was performed using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID). The differential expression level and diagnostic value of core lncRNAs were further evaluated by using independent data set from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Finally, the expression status and prognostic value of core lncRNAs in various tumors were analyzed based on Gene Expression Profiling Interactive Analysis (GEPIA).

Results

Seven core lncRNAs (LINC00478, PGM5-AS1, AL035610.1, MIR143HG, RP11-175K6.1, AC005550.4, and MIR497HG) have good single-factor diagnostic value for breast cancer. AC093850.2 has a prognostic value for breast cancer. AC005550.4 and MIR497HG can better distinguish breast cancer patients in early-stage from the advanced-stage. Low expression of MAGI2-AS3, LINC00478, AL035610.1, MIR143HG, and MIR145 may be associated with lymph node metastasis in breast cancer.

Conclusion

Our study provides candidate biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognosis of breast cancer, as well as a bioinformatics basis for the further elucidation of the molecular pathological mechanism of breast cancer.
Complete mitochondrial genome sequence ofLabriocimbex sinicus, a new genus and new species of Cimbicidae (Hymenoptera) from China
Authors: Yan Yuchen , Niu Gengyun , Zhang Yaoyao , Ren Qianying , Du Shiyu , Lan Bocheng , Wei Meicai
Published: October 2019

Labriocimbex sinicusYan & Wei gen. et sp. nov. of Cimbicidae is described. The new genus is similar toPraiaAndre andTrichiosomaLeach. A key to extant Holarctic genera of Cimbicinae is provided. To identify the phylogenetic placement of Cimbicidae, the mitochondrial genome ofL. sinicuswas annotated and characterized using high-throughput sequencing data. The complete mitochondrial genome ofL. sinicuswas obtained with a length of 15,405 bp (GenBank:MH136623; SRA:SRR8270383) and a typical set of 37 genes (22 tRNAs, 13 PCGs, and two rRNAs). The results demonstrated that all PCGs were initiated by ATN codon, and ended with TAA or T stop codons. The study reveals that all tRNA genes have a typical clover-leaf secondary structure, except fortrnS1. Remarkably, the secondary structures of therrnSandrrnLofL. sinicuswere much different from those ofCorynis lateralis. Phylogenetic analyses verified the monophyly and positions of the three Cimbicidae species within the superfamily Tenthredinoidea and demonstrated a relationship as (Tenthredinidae + Cimbicidae) + (Argidae + Pergidae) with strong nodal supports. Furthermore, we found that the generic relationships of Cimbicidae revealed by the phylogenetic analyses based onCOIgenes agree quite closely with the systematic arrangement of the genera based on the morphological characters. Phylogenetic tree based on two methods shows thatL. sinicusis the sister group ofPraiawith high support values. We suggest thatLabriocimbexbelongs to the tribe Trichiosomini of Cimbicinae based on adult morphology and molecular data. Besides, we suggest to promote the subgenusAsitrichiosomato be a valid genus.
18F‐FDG uptake in denervated muscles of patients with peripheral nerve injury
Authors: Choi Ji Soo , Seo Han Gil , Oh Byung‐Mo , Choi Hongyoon , Cheon Gi Jeong , Lee Shi‐Uk , Lee Seung Hak
Published: October 2019

Objective

We aimed to investigate the clinical significance of increased uptake in 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography in patients with peripheral nerve lesions.

Methods

We selected patients with unilateral peripheral nerve lesions confirmed with electromyography who had undergone 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography covering the lesions. In the denervated muscles and their contralateral corresponding pairs, a mean (SUVmean) and maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) were obtained from 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography images. We analyzed the difference in these values between the denervated and normal muscles. The lesion‐to‐normal ratio of the SUVmean (LNRmean) between each muscle pair was also obtained. Subgroup analysis was performed to find whether these three parameters were related to severity, abundance of abnormal spontaneous activity, and etiology.

Results

Twenty‐three patients with 38 denervated muscles were included. Compared to their normal counterparts, the denervated muscles showed significantly higher SUVmax (1.33 ± 0.49 vs. 1.10 ± 0.37, n = 38, P < 0.001) and SUVmean (0.91 ± 0.31 vs. 0.77 ± 0.28, n = 38, P < 0.001). The muscles with severe neuropathy showed significantly higher LNRmean than those with mild neuropathy (1.30 ± 0.36, n = 19 vs. 1.11 ± 0.24, n = 19; P = 0.046), and the muscles with traumatic neuropathy showed significantly higher LNRmean than those with nontraumatic neuropathy (1.32 ± 0.28, n = 13 vs. 1.14 ± 0.33, n = 23; P = 0.015).

Interpretation

Denervated muscles with peripheral nerve injury showed higher uptake than normal muscles in 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography, and this was associated with severity and etiology.
NIR‐Laser‐Controlled Hydrogen‐Releasing PdH Nanohydride for Synergistic Hydrogen‐Photothermal Antibacterial and Wound‐Healing Therapies
Authors: Yu Siming , Li Guowei , Zhao Penghe , Cheng Qikun , He Qianjun , Ma Dong , Xue Wei
Published: October 2019

For decades, hydrogen (H2) gas has been recognized as an excellent antioxidant molecule that holds promise in treating many diseases like Alzheimer's, stroke, cancer, and so on. For the first time, active hydrogen is demonstrated to be highly efficient in antibacterial, antibiofilm, and wound‐healing applications, in particular when used in combination with the photothermal effect. As a proof of concept, a biocompatible hydrogen‐releasing PdH nanohydride, displaying on‐demand controlled active hydrogen release property under near‐infrared laser irradiation, is fabricated by incorporating H2 into Pd nanocubes. The obtained PdH nanohydride combines both merits of bioactive hydrogen and photothermal effect of Pd, exhibiting excellent in vitro and in vivo antibacterial activities due to its synergistic hydrogen‐photothermal therapeutic effect. Interestingly, combinational hydrogen‐photothermal treatment is also proved to be an excellent therapeutic methodology in healing rats' wound with serious bacterial infection. Moreover, an in‐depth antibacterial mechanism study reveals that two potential pathways are involved in the synergistic hydrogen‐photothermal antibacterial effect. One is to upregulate bacterial metabolism relevant genes like dmpI, narJ, and nark, which subsequently encode more expression of oxidative metabolic enzymes to generate substantial reactive oxygen species to induce DNA damage and another is to cause severe bacterial membrane damage to release intracellular compounds like DNA.
Simple and Efficient Targeted Intracellular Protein Delivery with Self‐Assembled Nanovehicles for Effective Cancer Therapy
Authors: He Xiao , Long Qipeng , Zeng Zhiying , Yang Lan , Tang Yaqin , Feng Xuli
Published: October 2019

Protein therapy offers promising prospects for the treatment of various important diseases, thus it is highly desirable to develop a robust carrier that can deliver active proteins into cells. The development of a novel protein delivery platform based on the self‐assembly of multiarmed amphiphilic cyclodextrins (CDEH) is reported. CDEH can self‐assemble into nanoparticles in aqueous solution and achieve superior encapsulation of protein (loading capacity > 30% w/w) simply by mixing with protein solution without introducing any subsequent cumbersome steps that may inactivate proteins. More importantly, CDEH nanovehicles can be easily further modified with various targeting groups based on host–guest complexation. Using saporin as a therapeutic protein, AS1411‐aptamer‐modified CDEH nanovehicles can preferentially accumulate in tumors and efficiently inhibit tumor growth in a MDA‐MB‐231 xenograft mouse model. Moreover, folate‐targeted CDEH nanovehicles can also deliver Cas9 protein and Plk1‐targeting sgRNA into Hela cells, leading to 47.1% gene deletion and 64.1% Plk1 protein reduction in HeLa tumor tissue, thereby effectively suppressing the tumor progression. All these results indicate the potential of targeted CDEH nanovehicles in intracellular protein delivery for improving protein therapeutics.
A 3D Lithiophilic Mo2N‐Modified Carbon Nanofiber Architecture for Dendrite‐Free Lithium‐Metal Anodes in a Full Cell
Authors: Luo Liu , Li Jianyu , Yaghoobnejad Asl Hooman , Manthiram Arumugam
Published: October 2019

The pursuit for high‐energy‐density batteries has inspired the resurgence of metallic lithium (Li) as a promising anode, yet its practical viability is restricted by the uncontrollable Li dendrite growth and huge volume changes during repeated cycling. Herein, a new 3D framework configured with Mo2N‐mofidied carbon nanofiber (CNF) architecture is established as a Li host via a facile fabrication method. The lithiophilic Mo2N acts as a homogeneously pre‐planted seed with ultralow Li nucleation overpotential, thus spatially guiding a uniform Li nucleation and deposition in the matrix. The conductive CNF skeleton effectively homogenizes the current distribution and Li‐ion flux, further suppressing Li‐dendrite formation. As a result, the 3D hybrid Mo2N@CNF structure facilitates a dendrite‐free morphology with greatly alleviated volume expansion, delivering a significantly improved Coulombic efficiency of ≈99.2% over 150 cycles at 4 mA cm−2. Symmetric cells with Mo2N@CNF substrates stably operate over 1500 h at 6 mA cm−2 for 6 mA h cm−2. Furthermore, full cells paired with LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NMC811) cathodes in conventional carbonate electrolytes achieve a remarkable capacity retention of 90% over 150 cycles. This work sheds new light on the facile design of 3D lithiophilic hosts for dendrite‐free lithium‐metal anodes.
Unveiling the Activity Origin of Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution over Isolated Ni Atoms Supported on a N‐Doped Carbon Matrix
Authors: Zhang Huabin , Liu Yanyu , Chen Tao , Zhang Jintao , Zhang Jing , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: October 2019

Exploring highly efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and unveiling their activity origin are pivotal for energy conversion technologies. Herein, atomically distributed Ni sites over a N‐doped hollow carbon matrix are reported as a promising electrocatalyst for OER in alkaline conditions. Significantly boosted activity is observed after the decoration of the active Ni sites with well‐controlled coordination geometry. Results of X‐ray absorption spectroscopy investigation and density functional theory (DFT) calculation reveal that the effective electronic coupling via the Ni–N coordination can move down the Fermi level and lower the adsorption energy of intermediates, thus resulting in the facilitated OER kinetics.
Orientation‐Dependent Intercalation Channels for Lithium and Sodium in Black Phosphorus
Authors: Kim Sungkyu , Cui Jiang , Dravid Vinayak P. , He Kai
Published: October 2019

Black phosphorus (BP) with unique 2D structure enables the intercalation of foreign elements or molecules, which makes BP directly relevant to high‐capacity rechargeable batteries and also opens a promising strategy for tunable electronic transport and superconductivity. However, the underlying intercalation mechanism is not fully understood. Here, a comparative investigation on the electrochemically driven intercalation of lithium and sodium using in situ transmission electron microscopy is presented. Despite the same preferable intercalation channels along [100] (zigzag) direction, distinct anisotropic intercalation behaviors are observed, i.e., Li ions activate lateral intercalation along [010] (armchair) direction to form an overall uniform propagation, whereas Na diffusion is limited in the zigzag channels to cause the columnar intercalation. First‐principles calculations indicate that the diffusion of both Li and Na ions along the zigzag direction is energetically favorable, while Li/Na diffusion long the armchair direction encounters an increased energy barrier, but that of Na is significantly larger and insurmountable, which accounts for the orientation‐dependent intercalation channels. The evolution of chemical states during phase transformations (from LixP/NaxP to Li3P/Na3P) is identified by analytical electron diffraction and energy‐loss spectroscopy. The findings elucidate atomistic Li/Na intercalation mechanisms in BP and show potential implications for other similar 2D materials.
Bismuth Nanoparticle@Carbon Composite Anodes for Ultralong Cycle Life and High‐Rate Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Xiong Peixun , Bai Panxing , Li Ang , Li Benfang , Cheng Mingren , Chen Yiping , Huang Shuping , Jiang Qiang , Bu Xian‐He , Xu Yunhua
Published: October 2019

Bismuth has emerged as a promising anode material for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), owing to its high capacity and suitable operating potential. However, large volume changes during alloying/dealloying processes lead to poor cycling performance. Herein, bismuth nanoparticle@carbon (Bi@C) composite is prepared via a facile annealing method using a commercial coordination compound precursor of bismuth citrate. The composite has a uniform structure with Bi nanoparticles embedded within a carbon framework. The nanosized structure ensures a fast kinetics and efficient alleviation of stress/strain caused by the volume change, and the resilient and conductive carbon matrix provides an interconnected electron transportation pathway. The Bi@C composite delivers outstanding sodium‐storage performance with an ultralong cycle life of 30 000 cycles at a high current density of 8 A g−1 and an excellent rate capability of 71% capacity retention at an ultrahigh current rate of 60 A g−1. Even at a high mass loading of 11.5 mg cm−2, a stable reversible capacity of 280 mA h g−1 can be obtained after 200 cycles. More importantly, full SIBs by pairing with a Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode demonstrates superior performance. Combining the facile synthesis and the commercial precursor, the exceptional performance makes the Bi@C composite very promising for practical large‐scale applications.
Mn3O4 Nanomaterials Functionalized with Fe2O3 and ZnO: Fabrication, Characterization, and Ammonia Sensing Properties
Authors: Bigiani Lorenzo , Zappa Dario , Maccato Chiara , Gasparotto Alberto , Sada Cinzia , Comini Elisabetta , Barreca Davide
Published: October 2019

The fabrication of metal oxide‐based gas sensors with tailored structural design is of particular importance for the early recognition of poisonous/explosive analytes like ammonia, an irritating chemical occurring in a plethora of practical contexts. In this regard, the present work reports on the fabrication and gas sensing application of p‐Mn3O4/n‐MxOy nanocomposites with MxOy = Fe2O3 or ZnO. The target systems are developed by chemical vapor deposition of Mn3O4 nanosystems on alumina substrates and subsequent functionalization with iron or zinc oxides by sputtering under mild conditions. Material characterization reveals the formation of high purity composites with a controllable dispersion of Fe2O3 or ZnO into Mn3O4, and a close contact between the single constituents. The latter feature, resulting in the formation of p‐n junctions and in a tailored modulation of Mn3O4 hole accumulation layer, is of strategic importance in obtaining promising responses to ammonia already at moderate temperatures. Furthermore, Fe2O3 or ZnO functionalization empowers the pristine Mn3O4 with good selectivity toward NH3 against other potential interferents. These results, along with the very favorable detection limits, provide new physical insights for the implementation of gas‐sensitive devices with p‐n junctions aimed at practical end uses.
Ultrathin LiV2O4 Layers Modified LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 Single‐Crystal Cathodes with Enhanced Activity and Stability
Authors: Lu Yao , Zeng Xifeng , Wang Jun , Yang Lishan , Hu Shuai , Jia Chuankun , Zhao Haihong , Yin Dulin , Ge Xingbo , Xi Xiaoming
Published: October 2019

Nickel–cobalt–manganese ternary cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries are prone to detrimental side reactions and deterioration performance at deep charge. Coating is one of the effective methods to boost electrochemical performance of materials. This work conducts an ultrathin LiV2O4 layer on the single‐crystal LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 (NCM523) particles and scrutinizes the optimal coating amount. It turns out that 0.3 wt% LiV2O4‐modified NCM523 cathode achieves a reversible discharging capacity of 131.2 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles (3.0–4.5 V vs Li/Li+), with a capacity retention of 80% (which is 50% higher than that of the pristine sample). The experimental data suggest that this lithium vanadate coating technique provides an innovative strategy to boost the performance of NCM cathodes.
Dynamical Properties of Nanostructured Josephson‐Junction Based on the Schwinger Quantum Action Analysis
Authors: Choi Jeong Ryeol
Published: October 2019

Using the Schwinger action principle, Josephson‐junction dynamics for nanodevices have been investigated with emphasis on characterizing their quantum features. Starting from the time‐ordered Hamiltonian for the phase of the current which flows across the junction, the propagator, the wave functions, and the joint entropy, which are crucial for quantum analyses of the nano systems, are derived. It is shown that while the propagator and the wave functions vary depending on external driving forces, the joint entropy is not affected from such forces. Interestingly, the probability densities oscillate over time on account of the influence of the time‐varying supercurrent in the junction. It is confirmed that if external perturbations on the junction‐current are more complicated, the time behaviors of the probability densities become conspicuously irregular. The properties of the joint entropy are also analyzed in detail. Due to damping of the system, the phase(ϕ) component of the joint entropy decreases linearly over time, whereas the conjugate momentum(q) component exhibits linear increase; however, the corresponding joint entropy consequently does not vary. It is demonstrated that the joint entropy obeys the quantum minimum principle, and that there is a close relationship between the joint entropy and the uncertainty relation.
Perovskite Solar Cells: Can We Go Organic‐Free, Lead‐Free, and Dopant‐Free?
Authors: Miyasaka Tsutomu , Kulkarni Ashish , Kim Gyu Min , Öz Senol , Jena Ajay K.
Published: October 2019

Having demonstrated incredibly fast progress in power conversion efficiency, rising to a level comparable with that of crystalline silicon cells, lead‐based organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells are now facing the stability tests needed for industrialization. Poor thermal stability (<150 °C) owing to organic constituents and interlayer diffusion of materials (dopants), and environmental incompatibility due to Pb has surged the development of organic‐free, Pb‐free perovskites and dopant‐free hole transport materials (HTMs). The recent rapid increase in efficiency of cells based on inorganic perovskites, crossing 18%, demonstrates the great potential of inorganic perovskites as thermally stable and high‐efficiency cells. Although all kinds of Pb‐free perovskites lag in efficiency in comparison to the hybrid and inorganic perovskites, they also demonstrate better structural and environmental stability. The performance of dopant‐free HTMs matching/surpassing dopant‐containing HTMs makes the former a better choice for stability. Even though the efforts to enhance the stability of Pb‐based hybrid perovskites should continue by different techniques, organic‐free and lead‐free perovskites, and dopant‐free HTMs must be pursued with greater interest for the future. This review describes the present issues and possible strategies to address them, and thus will help to improve the overall performance of robust organic‐free, Pb‐free, and dopant‐free perovskite solar cells.
Designing optimally‐graded depth filter media using a novel multiscale method
Authors: Geerling Constantin , Azimian Mehdi , Wiegmann Andreas , Briesen Heiko , Kuhn Michael
Published: October 2019

Even though current manufacturing methods allow to build precisely‐defined graded depth filter media, it remains unclear which local filtration properties are desirable. We, therefore, introduce a multiscale approach which links pore and continuum scale (PS and CS) to address this question. Based on data from PS simulations, local filtration performance, as described by the filter coefficient, is predicted on the CS by an optimal control solution and the obtained trajectory is translated back to the PS where it is validated. Two case studies are presented: a bidisperse fibrous medium and a granular depth filter composed of bidisperse particles. Both media are optimized to achieve a homogenous deposition of separated impurities along the filter depth. It is found that the presented method allows to reach this goal reasonably well in both cases. We claim that our method forms a good basis for further developments for which promising possibilities are highlighted.
Sinonasal mucosal vasculature in yellow nail syndrome and chronic rhinosinusitis with or without polyps
Authors: Chatzopoulos Kyriakos , Gutierrez Claudia N. , Garcia Joaquin J. , Stokken Janalee K. , Choby Garret , O'Brien Erin K.
Published: October 2019

Background

Lymphatic dysfunction is hypothesized to be an underlying factor in the pathophysiology of yellow nail syndrome (YNS) (yellow nails, lymphedema, pleural effusions, and frequently chronic rhinosinusitis [CRS]). It is unclear why some YNS patients develop CRS. We quantified lymphatic and total vasculature of sinonasal mucosa in YNS patients and compared it to controls from CRS patients with (CRSwNP) or without polyps (CRSsNP).

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was performed on archival sinonasal mucosal samples from 5 patients with YNS and 14 controls with antibodies against podoplanin and CD31, markers of lymphatics. Morphometric assessment was performed on digital images using ImageJ software.

Results

In YNS, the number of lymphatics/mm2 ranged from 7 to 18/mm2 (controls: 6 to 43/mm2, p = 0.343), with a mean perimeter between 92 and 201 µm (controls: 42 to 280 µm, p = 0.482). Total vasculature density was higher than lymphatics, ranging between 189 and 1159 vessels/mm2, average 669 (controls: 139 to 1467/mm2, average 503, p = 0.257) with smaller average perimeter, 40 to 117 µm, mean 64.8 µm (controls: 42 to 92 µm, mean 65.3 µm, p = 0.965). Lymphatics constituted only a small fragment of the total vasculature, ranging from 1.15% to 4.76%, average 2.34% (controls: 0.81% to 10.58%, average 4.88%, p = 0.156). CRSwNP patients had significantly higher lymphatic density (p = 0.011) and ratio of lymphatics to total vasculature (p = 0.045) than patients with YNS or CRSsNP.

Conclusion

This is the first histological analysis of sinus mucosa in patients with YNS. Vascular type, density, size, and distribution in the sinonasal mucosa of YNS patients are not statistically significantly different from those of the CRSsNP group. Lymphatic density and ratio to total vasculature is higher in CRSwNP patients.
Duration of American Football Play and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Mez Jesse , Daneshvar Daniel H. , Abdolmohammadi Bobak , Chua Alicia S. , Alosco Michael L. , Kiernan Patrick T. , Evers Laney , Marshall Laura , Martin Brett M. , Palmisano Joseph N. , Nowinski Christopher J. , Mahar Ian , Cherry Jonathan D. , Alvarez Victor E. , Dwyer Brigid , Huber Bertrand R. , Stein Thor D. , Goldstein Lee E. , Katz Douglas I. , Cantu Robert C. , Au Rhoda , Kowall Neil W. , Stern Robert A. , McClean Michael D. , Weuve Jennifer , Tripodis Yorghos , McKee Ann C.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) is a neurodegenerative disease associated with exposure to contact and collision sports, including American football. We hypothesized a dose–response relationship between duration of football played and CTE risk and severity.

Methods

In a convenience sample of 266 deceased American football players from the Veterans Affairs–Boston University–Concussion Legacy Foundation and Framingham Heart Study Brain Banks, we estimated the association of years of football played with CTE pathological status and severity. We evaluated the ability of years played to classify CTE status using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Simulation analyses quantified conditions that might lead to selection bias.

Results

In total, 223 of 266 participants met neuropathological diagnostic criteria for CTE. More years of football played were associated with having CTE (odds ratio [OR] = 1.30 per year played, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.19–1.41; p = 3.8 × 10−9) and with CTE severity (severe vs mild; OR = 1.14 per year played, 95% CI = 1.07–1.22; p = 3.1 × 10−4). Participants with CTE were 1/10th as likely to have played <4.5 years (negative likelihood ratio [LR] = 0.102, 95% CI = 0.100–0.105) and were 10 times as likely to have played >14.5 years (positive LR = 10.2, 95% CI = 9.8–10.7) compared with participants without CTE. Sensitivity and specificity were maximized at 11 years played. Simulation demonstrated that years played remained adversely associated with CTE status when years played and CTE status were both related to brain bank selection across widely ranging scenarios.

Interpretation

The odds of CTE double every 2.6 years of football played. After accounting for brain bank selection, the magnitude of the relationship between years played and CTE status remained consistent. ANN NEUROL 2020;87:116–131
Fluorierte Reagenzien in der Strukturproteomik
Authors: Cheng Ming , Guo Chunyang , Gross Michael L.
Published: October 2019

Das Gebiet der Strukturproteomik befasst sich mit der umfassenden Kartierung von Proteinstrukturen, mit dem Ziel, die Beziehung zwischen Proteinsequenz, ‐struktur und ‐funktion zu verstehen. Die Kombination aus chemischer Markierung und Massenspektrometrie‐Analytik hat sich zu einem beliebten Ansatz für biologische Fragestellungen in der Strukturproteomik entwickelt. Hierbei sind biokompatible Reagenzien, die Proteine modifizieren, ohne deren höhere Ordnung zu beeinflussen, der Schlüssel zum Erfolg. Fluor ist bestens dafür bekannt, die physikochemischen Eigenschaften von Reagenzien zu verändern, und spielt daher in der Strukturproteomik eine immer bedeutendere Rolle. In diesem Kurzaufsatz beschreiben wir die Verwendung fluorierter Reagenzien im Bereich der Strukturproteomik. Dabei beziehen wir uns auf MS‐basierte Techniken: a) Affinitätsmarkierung b) Aktivitäts‐basiertes Protein‐Profiling (ABPP), c) Protein‐Footprinting sowie d) Protein‐Crosslinking. Unser Ziel ist es, den Stand der Forschung sowie die Entwicklungen und Anwendungen von fluorierten Reagenzien in der Proteinstrukturanalytik zusammenzufassen.
Auf dem Weg zur verlässlichen und quantitativen SERS‐Spektroskopie: von Schlüsselparametern zur guten analytischen Praxis
Authors: Bell Steven E. J. , Charron Gaëlle , Cortés Emiliano , Kneipp Janina , Lamy de la Chapelle Marc , Langer Judith , Procházka Marek , Tran Vi , Schlücker Sebastian
Published: October 2019

Experimentelle Resultate, die in verschiedenen Laboren weltweit von Wissenschaftlern mithilfe der oberflächenverstärkten Raman‐Streuung (SERS, surface‐enhanced Raman scattering) erhalten wurden, können beträchtlich voneinander abweichen. Wir, ein internationales Team von Wissenschaftlerinnen und Wissenschaftlern mit langjähriger SERS‐Expertise, präsentieren hier unsere Sichtweise auf dieses Thema mit Betrachtungen hinsichtlich verlässlichem und quantitativem SERS. Die zentrale Idee dieses Gemeinschaftsunterfangens ist es, auf die oft in der Literatur anzutreffenden Schlüsselparameter und Stolperfallen hinzuweisen. Im Hinblick darauf bieten wir Empfehlungen zu folgenden Themen an: a) die Charakterisierung von festen und kolloidalen SERS‐Substraten durch korrelative Elektronen‐ und optische Mikroskopie und Spektroskopie, b) zur Bestimmung des SERS‐Verstärkungsfaktors (EF, enhancement factor) inklusive geeigneter Raman‐Reporter/Sonden‐Moleküle und schließlich c) zur guten analytischen Praxis. Die Autorinnen und Autoren hoffen, dass sowohl Newcomer als auch Spezialisten von diesen Empfehlungen profitieren, um die Inter‐Labor‐Vergleichbarkeit von experimentellen SERS‐Resultaten zu erhöhen und zur weiteren Etablierung von SERS als einer analytischen Methode beizutragen.
Rapid Activation of Platinum with Black Phosphorus for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Wang Xin , Bai Licheng , Lu Jiang , Zhang Xue , Liu Danni , Yang Huanhuan , Wang Jiahong , Chu Paul K. , Ramakrishna Seeram , Yu Xue‐Feng
Published: October 2019

Modulation of the electronic structure of metal catalysts is an effective approach to optimize the electrocatalytic activity. Herein, we show a surprisingly strong activation effect of black phosphorus (BP) on platinum (Pt) catalysts to give greatly enhanced catalytic activity in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The unique and negative binding energy between BP and Pt leads to spontaneous formation of Pt‐P bonds producing strong synergistic ligand effects on the Pt nanoparticles. No Pt‐P bonds are formed with red phosphorus which is another allotrope of P. By controlling the number of Pt‐P bonds, 3.5‐fold enhancement in the HER activity can be achieved from the BP‐activated Pt catalyst and the activity is 6.1 times higher than that of the state‐of‐the‐art commercial Pt/C catalyst. The BP‐activated Pt catalyst exhibits a current density of 82.89 mA cm−2 with only 1 μg of Pt in 1 m KOH at an overpotential of 70 mV.
Single Electron Transfer to Diazomethane–Borane Adducts Prompts C−H Bond Activations
Authors: Cao Levy L. , Zhou Jiliang , Qu Zheng‐Wang , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: October 2019

While (Ph2CN2)B(C6F5)3 is unstable, single electron transfer from Cp*2Co affords the isolation of stable products [Cp*2Co][Ph2CNNHB(C6F5)3] 1 and [Cp*Co(C5Me4CH2B(C6F5)3)] 2. The analogous combination of Ph2CN2 and BPh3 showed no evidence of adduct formation and yet single electron transfer from Cp*2Cr affords the species [Cp*2Cr][PhC(C6H4)NNBPh3] 3 and [Cp*2Cr][Ph2CNNHBPh3] 4. Computations showed both reactions proceed via transient radical anions of the diphenyldiazomethane–borane adducts to effect C−H bond activations.
Performance Evaluation and Biodegradation Study of Polyvinyl Chloride Films with Castor Oil‐based Plasticizer
Authors: Mukherjee Sohini , Ghosh Mahua
Published: October 2019

In the present study, a renewable resource‐based plasticizer was synthesized by the lipase‐catalyzed esterification reaction of furfuryl alcohol (FA) and castor oil fatty acid (COFA). The resultant ester (FA‐COFA ester) was used as secondary plasticizers to the polyvinyl chloride (PVC) films. The PVC films were formulated using the combination of a conventional plasticizer di‐butyl phthalate (DBP) and FA‐COFA ester as a secondary plasticizer at different concentrations. Films were characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, thermal analysis, mechanical performance, and migration stability. A biodegradability study of the PVC films showed increased degradability with increasing concentration of the FA‐COFA ester in the PVC film. The study showed that ester of FA and COFA could be a substitute of DBP by as much as 80% of the total plasticizer with improved elongation and tensile properties, and such a kind of sustainable resource‐based PVC blend films could be used as a good packaging material with biodegradable property.
Planung und Herstellung des Stahlüberbaus der Hochmoselbrücke
Authors: Klähne Thomas , Kubieniec Gabriel , Owusu‐Yeboah Mike , Heiland Uwe
Published: October 2019

Die Hochmoselbrücke ist mit einer Bauhöhe über der Mosel von ca. 160 m, einer Gesamtlänge von ca. 1702 m und einer max. Einzelstützweite von ca. 210 m eine Großbrücke, die an die Planung und Bauausführung besondere Anforderungen stellte. Neben einer Reihe im normalen Großbrückenbau nicht üblicher technischer Fragestellungen war der komplizierte Einschubvorgang mit einer in Europa noch nicht überwundenen Einzelstützweite von ca. 210 m als freier Kragarm in technischer Hinsicht zu bewältigen.

Während der Detailanalyse zeigte sich, dass für die Dimensionierung des Tragwerks im Wesentlichen die Bauzustände bemessungsmaßgebend wurden. Nur durch eine streng strukturierte Vorgehensweise in der Planung war eine wirtschaftliche Dimensionierung des Tragwerks unter den vorgegebenen Randbedingungen in einer knapp vorgegebenen Zeitspanne zu realisieren.

Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird über grundsätzliche Besonderheiten der Planung und Bauausführung berichtet.
Spezifikation und Bestellung von Stahl für den Stahlbau
Authors: Lehnert Tobias , Gola Jessica
Published: October 2019

Zu den wichtigsten Anforderungen im modernen Stahlbau zählen derzeit Kosteneffizienz, Qualität und Nachhaltigkeit. Diese Ansprüche stellen sowohl Planer, Ingenieure als auch Fertiger im Planungsprozess bei der Suche nach der optimalen Lösung vor große Herausforderungen. Moderne Stahlgüten, wie thermomechanisch gewalzte Stähle (TM‐Stähle), höherfeste Stähle und wetterfeste Baustähle, haben in den letzten Jahren in vielfältiger Weise bewiesen, dass sie durch ihren Einsatz sowohl wirtschaftliches, schnelles Bauen als auch einen verantwortungsbewussten Umgang mit natürlichen Ressourcen fördern können.

Um diese vielfältigen neuen Möglichkeiten im modernen Stahlbau nutzen zu können, sind Kenntnisse über den Werkstoff Baustahl und die wesentlichen im bauaufsichtlichen Bereich zu beachtenden Normen und deren Neuerungen erforderlich, z. B. für die richtige Materialbestellung. Häufig sind neben den reinen Werkstoffnormen zusätzlich Anwendungsregelwerke des Stahlbaus mit über die Grunddefinition der Stähle hinausgehenden Anforderungen entscheidend. Die Bestellung einer Stahlsorte für die Anwendung in einem Bauwerk setzt damit die Kenntnis der Regelwerke voraus, die für die Bemessung, Konstruktion und Ausführung des Bauwerks von Bedeutung sein könnten.

Der folgende Beitrag soll helfen, die wichtigsten Änderungen in der neuen EN 10025 und die wesentlichen Regelwerke in einem Überblick kennenzulernen. Es wird darauf eingegangen, wie wichtig es ist, das mitgeltende Konstruktions‐ und Verarbeitungsregelwerk bei der Stahlbestellung zu berücksichtigen. Ein besonderer Schwerpunkt wird in diesem Artikel auf die TM‐Stahlsorten gelegt. Die Anwendung dieser Stähle in Deutschland nimmt stetig zu, wie das Beispiel der Hochmoselbrücke zeigt.
Reversible lesion in the splenium of the corpus callosum
Authors: Tetsuka Syuichi
Published: October 2019

Aim of Review

The presence of isolated, reversible lesions in the splenium of the corpus callosum (SCC) is essential to confirm the diagnosis of mild encephalitis/encephalopathy. The lesions usually heal within a month after the onset of neurological symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has increasingly been used as a diagnostic tool, which has led to the publication of an increasing number of case reports. These have highlighted some inconsistencies about encephalitis/encephalopathy. First, the condition is not always mild and may be severe. Second, reversible lesions in the SCC have been identified in various diseases and conditions other than viral encephalitis/encephalopathy. Third, lesions in SCC are not always completely reversible. On this note, this review describes the specific clinical and radiological features of encephalitis/encephalopathy.

Findings

The reversible lesion in SCC is an MRI finding observable in a wide variety of diseases and conditions. Thus, it should be considered as a secondary change rather than a peculiar feature associated with mild encephalitis/encephalopathy. If reversible lesions are present in the SCC, the symptoms and prognosis are not necessarily favorable, with manifestations of encephalitis/encephalopathy varying from absent to severe. Neuroradiological features that appear as isolated high‐intensity signals on diffusion‐weighted images and a decreased apparent diffusion coefficient of the lesion might indicate a diagnosis of cytotoxic edema. Findings of previous studies suggest that cytokine‐mediated cytotoxic edema of the SCC may be an important pathophysiological manifestation of this condition.

Conclusion

The reversible lesions in the SCC found on MRI are not exclusive to encephalitis/encephalopathy but may be secondary to other disorders.
Clinical significance of radiotherapy before and/or during nivolumab treatment in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yu Jeong Il , Lee Su Jin , Lee Jeeyun , Lim Ho Yeong , Paik Seung Woon , Yoo Gyu Sang , Choi Changhoon , Park Hee Chul
Published: October 2019

Background

This study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of previous and/or concurrent application of radiotherapy (RT) in the course of nivolumab treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Patients with advanced HCC who received nivolumab treatment between March 2017 and May 2018. were included. Nivolumab treatment was indicated in patients who did not respond to conventional therapy including locoregional therapy and/or sorafenib. RT was performed when necessary for curative/palliative purpose.

Results

Among the 76 HCC patients who received nivolumab, 54 (71.1%) had received RT for HCC before and/or during the treatment. The period from initial HCC diagnosis to nivolumab treatment was significantly longer (P = .007) and the rate of undergoing transarterial chemoembolization (TACE; P = .006) and sorafenib treatment (P = .007) was significantly higher in patients who received previous/concurrent RT than in those who did not. Nivolumab‐related toxicities were generally tolerable regardless of the history of RT. During the follow‐up, 39 (51.3%) patients died and 54 (71.1%) patients experienced disease progression according to the RECIST v1.1. Patients who had received previous/concurrent RT had a significantly longer progression‐free survival (PFS; P = .008) and overall survival (OS; P = .007) than those who did not receive RT; however, this trend was not observed in patients with a history of radiofrequency ablation or TACE (all P > .05).

Conclusion

Previous and/or concurrent application of RT in the course of nivolumab treatment was related with longer PFS and OS in advanced HCC patients. Nonetheless, further clinical studies are warranted to confirm our findings.
CF3‐Pyridinyl Substitution on Antimalarial Therapeutics: Probing Differential Ligand Binding and Dynamical Inhibitory Effects of a Novel Triazolopyrimidine‐Based Inhibitor on Plasmodium falciparum Dihydroorotate Dehydrogenase
Authors: Agoni Clement , Salifu Elliasu Y. , Munsamy Geraldene , Olotu Fisayo A. , Soliman Mahmoud
Published: October 2019

The quest for reliable dihydroorotate dehydrogenase (DHODH) inhibitors has engendered the discovery of potential therapeutic compounds at different stages of clinical trials. Although promising, high attrition rates and unfavorable bioactivities have limited their drug developmental progress. A recent structural modification of DSM265, a triazolopyrimidine‐based inhibitor, yielded DSM421, derived by the substitution of the SF5‐aniline group on DSM265 with a CF3‐pyridinyl moiety. Consequently, DSM421 exhibited improved pharmacological and pharmacokinetics attributes relative to DSM265. The improved bioactivity mediated by the CF3‐pyridinyl group leaves us with a curiosity to investigate underlying ligand‐binding mechanisms and dynamics using computational methods. Presented in this study are insights that clearly explain the effects of structural SF5‐aniline→CF3‐pyridinyl modifications on pfDHODH inhibition. Findings showed that the CF3‐pyridinyl group induced an optimal and stabilized positioning of DSM421 within the binding pocket, allowing for steady and strong intermolecular interactions which favored its stronger binding affinity as estimated and correlated with bioactivity data. These interactions consequently induced a pronounced stabilization of the structural conformation of pfDHODH by restricting residue motions, which possibly underpinned its enhanced inhibitory activity relative to DSM265. Active site interactions of the CF3‐pyrinidyl group with residues Ser236, Ile237, and Phe188 characterized by strong π–π stacking and halogen interactions also stabilized its positioning which altogether accounted for its enhanced inhibitory prowess towards pfDHODH. On the contrary, fewer and weaker interactions characterized DSM265 binding which could explain its relatively lower binding affinity. Findings will facilitate the design of novel pfDHODH inhibitors with enhanced properties.
Sporadic renal hemangioblastoma: A case report of a rare benign renal tumor
Authors: Oberhammer Lukas , Mitterberger Michael Josef , Lusuardi Lukas , Kunit Thomas , Drerup Martin , Colleselli Daniela , Griessner Hubert , Hager Martina
Published: October 2019

In renal tumors, suspicious for renal cell carcinoma, where there is any doubt and discrepancy between morphology and immune profile, we recommend performing further immunohistochemical staining for pan‐cytokeratin, S100, NSE, and inhibin‐alpha. Thus, follow‐up overtreatment can be avoided in cases of benign kidney tumors.