bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sero-prevalence of HPV-16 IgG Antibodies and Its Association with Socio Demographic Features of Women in Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria
Authors: Haruna H. A. , Olonitola S. O. , Aminu M.
Published: April 2019

Aim: To determine the sero-prevalence of Human Papilloma Virus type 16(HPV-16) immunoglobulin G antibodies and its association with socio-demographic features of women attending some clinics in Lokoja, Kogi State, Nigeria.

Study Design: Hospital based cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Kogi State specialist hospital and Federal medical Centre, Lokoja. Kogi State, Nigeria, between June and October, 2015.

Methodology: We included 400 participants (380 pregnant and 20 non pregnant women; age range 15 to 45 years) attending the hospitals during the duration of the research. Serum samples were analysed for human papilloma virus type 16 IgG using the Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay and questionnaire was also administered to obtain demographic features of the participants.

Results: The prevalence of human papilloma virus type 16 IgG antibodies was found to be 10%. The occurrence of IgG antibodies to human papilloma virus was found to be statistically associated with educational status and occupation (P = 0.020 and 0.036 respectively).

Conclusion: The prevalence of human papilloma virus was high. Cervical screening centres should be established in all areas of the state and awareness campaigns should be organized to afford young women the knowledge and dangers of cervical cancer and preventive measures.
Determining efficient helical IMRT modulation factor from the MLC leaf‐open time distribution on precision treatment planning system
Authors: Boyd Robert , Jeong Kyoungkeun , Tomé Wolfgang A.
Published: April 2019

Purpose

Since the modulation factor (MF) impacts both plan quality and delivery efficiency in tomotherapy Intensity Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) treatment planning, the purpose of this study was to demonstrate a technique in determining an efficient MF from the Multileaf Collimator (MLC) leaf‐open time (LOT) distribution of a tomotherapy treatment delivery plan.

Methods

Eight clinical plans of varying complexity were optimized with the highest allowed MF on the Accuracy Precision treatment planning system. Using a central limit theorem argument a range of reduced MFs were then determined from the first two moments of the LOT distribution. A step down approach was used to calculate the reduced‐MF plans and plan comparison tools available on the Precision treatment planning system were used to evaluate dose differences with the reference plan.

Results

A reduced‐MF plan that balanced delivery time and dosimetric quality was found from the set of five MFs determined from the LOT distribution of the reference plan. The reduced‐MF plan showed good agreement with the reference plan (target and critical organ dose‐volume region of interest dose differences were within 1% and 2% of prescription dose, respectively).

Discussion

Plan evaluation and acceptance criteria can vary depending on individual clinical expectations and dosimetric quality trade‐offs. With the scheme presented in this paper a planner should be able to efficiently generate a high‐quality plan with efficient delivery time without knowing a good MF beforehand.

Conclusion

A methodology for deriving a reduced MF from the LOT distribution of a high MF treatment plan using the central limit theorem has been presented. A scheme for finding a reduced MF from a set of MFs that results in a plan balanced in both dosimetric quality and treatment delivery efficiency has also been presented.
Treatment of natalizumab‐associated PML with filgrastim
Authors: Stefoski Dusan , Balabanov Roumen , Waheed Rasha , Ko Michael , Koralnik Igor J. , Sierra Morales Fabian
Published: April 2019

Objective

There is no consensus on the treatment of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) occurring in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients treated with natalizumab (Nz). We report novel immune activating treatment with filgrastim of Nz‐associated PML in MS patients treated at Rush University Medical Center.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 17 Nz‐PML patients treated at this single tertiary referral center between 2010 and 2017. We reviewed the clinical symptoms, diagnostic methods, survival, outcome and MS modifying therapy (MSMT) after Nz‐PML.

Results

PML occurred after an average of 49 Nz infusions. To facilitate JCV elimination by accelerating immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS), all patients received subcutaneous filgrastim upon PML diagnosis and discontinuation of Nz; eight received plasma exchange (PLEX). Earlier than previously published, PML‐IRIS occurred in 15 of 17 (88.2%) patients within a mean of 57.4 days (SD 21.20) after the last Nz infusion. Seven patients recovered to or near baseline. There were no PML/IRIS–related fatalities but one patient committed suicide 2.5 years later. PLEX had no impact on PML outcome. Of 17 patients, 3 (18%) had MS relapses within 1 year after PML, and 5 (29%) beyond 1 year of PML onset, which is lower than expected in highly active MS patients. Eight patients started MSMTs after Nz‐PML on an average of 26 months after Nz withdrawal.

Interpretation

Our findings indicate that immunoactivation with filgrastim during PML and careful management of subsequent IRIS is likely beneficial in patients with Nz‐PML, without worsening MS. The clinical course of MS may be ameliorated by PML.
Solution‐Processable Perovskite Solar Cells toward Commercialization: Progress and Challenges
Authors: Wang Peng , Wu Yihui , Cai Bing , Ma Qingshan , Zheng Xiaojia , Zhang Wen‐Hua
Published: April 2019

In the last few years, organometal halide perovskites (OHPs) have emerged as a promising candidate for photovoltaic (PV) applications. A certified efficiency as high as 23.7% has been achieved, which is comparable with most of the well‐established PV technologies. Their good solubility due to the ionic nature enables versatile low‐temperature solution processes, including blade coating, slot‐die coating, etc., most of which are scalable and compatible with roll‐to‐roll large‐scale manufacturing processes. The low cost, high efficiency, and facile processable features make perovskite solar cells (PSCs) a very competitive PV technology. Despite the great progress, long‐term durability concerns, toxicity issues of both materials and manufacturing process, and lack of robust high‐throughput production technology for fabricating efficient large‐area modules are major obstacles toward commercialization. In this review, the recent progress of commercially available process of PSCs is surveyed, the underlying determinants for upscaling high‐quality PSCs from hydrodynamic characteristics and crystallization thermodynamic mechanism are identified, the influence of external stress factors on stability of PSCs and intrinsic instability mechanism in OHPs themselves is revealed, and the environmental impact and sustainable development of PSC technology are analyzed. Strategies and opportunities for large‐scale production of PSCs are suggested to promote the development of PSCs toward commercialization.
A Rationally Designed Semiconducting Polymer Brush for NIR‐II Imaging‐Guided Light‐Triggered Remote Control of CRISPR/Cas9 Genome Editing
Authors: Li Ling , Yang Zhen , Zhu Shoujun , He Liangcan , Fan Wenpei , Tang Wei , Zou Jianhua , Shen Zheyu , Zhang Mingru , Tang Longguang , Dai Yunlu , Niu Gang , Hu Shuo , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: April 2019

The clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated protein 9 (Cas9) genome‐editing system has shown great potential in biomedical applications. Although physical approaches, viruses, and some nonviral vectors have been employed for CRISPR/Cas9 delivery and induce some promising genome‐editing efficacy, precise genome editing remains challenging and has not been reported yet. Herein, second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II) imaging‐guided NIR‐light‐triggered remote control of the CRISPR/Cas9 genome‐editing strategy is reported based on a rationally designed semiconducting polymer brush (SPPF). SPPF can not only be a vector to deliver CRISPR/Cas9 cassettes but also controls the endolysosomal escape and payloads release through photothermal conversion under laser irradiation. Upon laser exposure, the nanocomplex of SPPF and CRISPR/Cas9 cassettes induces effective site‐specific precise genome editing both in vitro and in vivo with minimal toxicity. Besides, NIR‐II imaging based on SPPF can also be applied to monitor the in vivo distribution of the genome‐editing system and guide laser irradiation in real time. Thus, this study offers a typical paradigm for NIR‐II imaging‐guided NIR‐light‐triggered remote control of the CRISPR/Cas9 system for precise genome editing. This strategy may open an avenue for CRISPR/Cas9 genome‐editing‐based precise gene therapy in the near future.
Articular Cartilage‐Inspired Surface Functionalization for Enhanced Lubrication
Authors: Wang Yixin , Sun Yulong , Gu Yanhong , Zhang Hongyu
Published: April 2019

Natural articular cartilage has excellent superlubrication property, and it is attributed to the hydration lubrication mechanism of the charged biomacromolecules which extend from the cartilage surface to form a brush‐like layer. In this study, a bioinspired brush‐like polyelectrolyte, namely poly(2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (PMPC), is grafted onto the SiO2 wafer and polystyrene (PS) microsphere via surface‐initiated polymerization to enhance the lubrication performance. The characterization of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, water contact angle, and scanning electron microscopy demonstrates that the PMPC polymer brushes are successfully modified onto the substrates. Furthermore, the lubrication test performed using atomic force microscope, with the PMPC‐grafted SiO2 wafer and PMPC‐grafted PS microsphere as the contact tribopair, shows that the PMPC‐functionalized surfaces significantly reduce friction coefficient under different test conditions. The tenacious water hydration shells formed surrounding the zwitterionic charges of PMPC polymer brushes are responsible for the reduced friction coefficient, which could support high pressures without being squeezed out under loading. In summary, the articular cartilage‐inspired surface functionalization method can be used to modify various substrates for enhanced lubrication.
Conformational Dynamics‐Guided Loop Engineering of an Alcohol Dehydrogenase: Capture, Turnover and Enantioselective Transformation of Difficult‐to‐Reduce Ketones
Authors: Liu Beibei , Qu Ge , Li Jun‐Kuan , Fan Wenchao , Ma Jun‐An , Xu Yan , Nie Yao , Sun Zhoutong
Published: April 2019

Directed evolution of enzymes for the asymmetric reduction of prochiral ketones to produce enantio‐pure secondary alcohols is particularly attractive in organic synthesis. Loops located at the active pocket of enzymes often participate in conformational changes required to fine‐tune residues for substrate binding and catalysis. It is therefore of great interest to control the substrate specificity and stereochemistry of enzymatic reactions by manipulating the conformational dynamics. Herein, a secondary alcohol dehydrogenase was chosen to enantioselectively catalyze the transformation of difficult‐to‐reduce bulky ketones, which are not accepted by the wildtype enzyme. Guided by previous work and particularly by structural analysis and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, two key residues alanine 85 (A85) and isoleucine 86 (I86) situated at the binding pocket were thought to increase the fluctuation of a loop region, thereby yielding a larger volume of the binding pocket to accommodate bulky substrates. Subsequently, site‐directed saturation mutagenesis was performed at the two sites. The best mutant, where residue alanine 85 was mutated to glycine and isoleucine 86 to leucine (A85G/I86L), can efficiently reduce bulky ketones to the corresponding pharmaceutically interesting alcohols with high enantioselectivities (∼99% ee). Taken together, this study demonstrates that introducing appropriate mutations at key residues can induce a higher flexibility of the active site loop, resulting in the improvement of substrate specificity and enantioselectivity.

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In Search of Locally Produced Arsenic Sorbents via Impregnation of Cotton with Magnetite Nanoparticles Using Choline Acetate
Authors: Berton Paula , Kelley Steven P. , Adesina Adeyinka O. , Rogers Robin D.
Published: April 2019

A simple method to incorporate magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) into cotton fiber for arsenic sorption is demonstrated. Choline acetate is utilized to simultaneously suspend Fe3O4 NPs while swelling the cotton fiber surface, allowing the incorporation of the Fe3O4 NPs in the fiber by dipping at 80 °C and washing with water. A 1:5 mass ratio Fe3O4 NPs:cotton fiber exhibits a tenfold increase in the sorption of As(V) when compared with raw cotton fiber. This method could be used to mass produce field‐deployable sorbents near polluted areas lacking water treatment infrastructure.
Unraveling the Role of Sn Segregation in the Electronic Transport of Polycrystalline Hematite: Raising the Electronic Conductivity by Lowering the Grain‐Boundary Blocking Effect
Authors: Soares Mario R. S. , Costa Carlos A. R. , Lanzoni Evandro M. , Bettini Jefferson , Ramirez Carlos A. O. , Souza Flavio L. , Longo Elson , Leite Edson R.
Published: April 2019

This paper describes the role of SnO2 in the electronic transport of polycrystalline hematite (α‐Fe2O3). The proper sintering process allows for freezing of a state of electronic defects, in which the electrical properties of hematite are controlled by the grain boundary and Sn segregation. Impedance spectroscopy and dc conductivity measurements show that current flows through preferential pathways associated with Sn segregation that occurs at the grain boundary, leading to a decrease in grain‐boundary resistance. Atomic force microscopy and electric force microscopy measurements confirm the results of the impedance analysis. The identification of preferential grain boundaries for electrical conductivity may have a direct influence on the light‐induced water‐splitting performance of the hematite photoanode.
Solution Shearing of a High‐Capacitance Polymer Dielectric for Low‐Voltage Organic Transistors
Authors: Haase Katherina , Zessin Jakob , Zoumboulis Konstantinos , Müller Markus , Hambsch Mike , Mannsfeld Stefan C. B.
Published: April 2019

With the prospect of realizing innovative technologies by large‐area fabrication at low cost and high throughput, printing and coating technologies are being intensively researched for the deposition of functional films. One promising coating technology is solution shearing, which has been studied as a deposition technique for organic semiconductors but not to a greater extent for dielectric layers. Therefore, the deposition by solution shearing of high‐quality poly(4‐vinylphenol) dielectrics is investigated, and the utility of these films as ultra‐smooth dielectric substrates for transistors is demonstrated. By comparing these films to those prepared by spin‐coating, it is possible to highlight the advantages of the technique. Specifically, thinner films with thicknesses as low as 11.4 nm but still low leakage and almost identical surface properties can be achieved. Thus, dielectric films with a very high capacitance of 280 nF cm‐2 are realized in a single coating step. Probing these films within organic transistors shows that they can facilitate operation at voltages as low as ‐1 V. Finally, it is shown how the use of a polymer‐small‐molecule–semiconductor blend can pave the way toward high‐performance, ultra‐low‐voltage devices from solution.
Market power and farm‐retail price transmission: The case of US fluid milk markets
Authors: Yu Charng‐Jiun , Gould Brian W.
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we seek to understand the impact of market competitiveness on the degree of asymmetric price transmission and associated welfare implications. We estimate a kinked Almost Ideal Demand System for fluid milk products in 18 US metropolitan areas. By conducting an asymmetric price transmission test, we find that cities with less competitive food retailing tend to exhibit asymmetric price transmission. The degree of price asymmetry and associated welfare loss are decreasing in market competitiveness. Our welfare analysis suggests that the welfare loss due to asymmetric price transmission is large in terms of the percentage of milk expenditures. The potential is for substantially higher future welfare loss given the ongoing consolidation in the food retailing industry. [EconLit citations: L11, Q11]
Soft Pneumatic Sensing Chambers for Generic and Interactive Human–Machine Interfaces
Authors: Tawk Charbel , in het Panhuis Marc , Spinks Geoffrey M. , Alici Gursel
Published: April 2019

Soft robots are ideal to interact safely alongside humans when compared to rigid‐bodied robots. These robots require robust soft sensors that can sustain large deformations. Novel soft pneumatic sensing chambers (SPSCs) that can be directly 3D printed using a low‐cost 3D printer and an off‐the‐shelf thermoplastic poly(urethane) (TPU) are presented. The SPSCs are responsive to four main mechanical input modalities of compression, bending, torsion, and rectilinear displacement, and all of these cause a pressure change in the SPSCs. The SPSCs have several advantages including fast response, linearity, negligible hysteresis, repeatability and reliability, stability over time, long lifetime, and very low power consumption. The SPSCs are optimized using finite element modeling (FEM) simulations to obtain a linear relationship between the input mechanical modalities and the output pressure. With the hyperelastic material model developed for the TPU, the FEM simulations accurately predict the experimental behavior. These SPSCs are generic and can be tailored to diverse soft and interactive human–machine interfaces including soft wearable gloves for virtual reality applications and soft adaptive grippers control, soft push buttons for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education platforms, haptic feedback devices for rehabilitation, soft game controllers and soft throttle controllers for gaming, and soft bending sensors for soft prosthetic hands.
International consensus statement on endoscopic skull‐base surgery: executive summary
Authors: Wang Eric W. , Gardner Paul A. , Zanation Adam M.
Published: April 2019

Background

Endoscopic skull‐base
surgery (ESBS) is a rapidly growing discipline that often combines the expertise of otolaryngology–head and neck surgeons and neurosurgeons to provide care for these challenging conditions. As the field has grown, so too has the literature evaluating this surgical approach and the challenges and complications associated with these interventions. An international, multidisciplinary effort to critically evaluate and grade the current literature on ESBS has resulted in the International Consensus Statement on Endoscopic Skull Base Surgery (ICAR:SB). This Executive Summary highlights the key findings of the ICAR:SB document.

Methods

Following the prior methodology of the ICAR statements, the ICAR:SB document consists of 98 topics in ESBS that underwent a systematic review. When sufficient evidence exists, an evidence‐based review with recommendation (EBRR) or evidence‐based review (EBR) was created and then underwent an iterative review process until consensus was achieved. This Executive Summary recapitulates these findings.

Results

This summary complies the EBR and EBRR from the ICAR:SB document in the management of numerous skull‐base pathologies including cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, intradural tumors, sinonasal malignancies, and clival tumors, as well as the key issues of reconstruction after and the complications associated with ESBS.

Conclusion

The ICAR:SB Executive Summary recaps the evidenced‐based recommendations concerning the advantages, limitations and challenges of ESBS in the management of diverse skull‐base pathologies. Although multifactorial in nature, the overall level of evidence in ESBS is modest. This represents an opportunity to address these knowledge gaps moving forward.
An Original L‐shape, Tunable N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Platform for Efficient Gold(I) Catalysis
Authors: Tang Yue , Benaissa Idir , Huynh Mathieu , Vendier Laure , Lugan Noël , Bastin Stéphanie , Belmont Philippe , César Vincent , Michelet Véronique
Published: April 2019

The synthesis and characterization of original NHC ligands based on an imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridin‐3‐ylidene (IPy) scaffold functionalized with a flanking barbituric heterocycle is described as well as their use as tunable ligands for efficient gold‐catalyzed C−N, C−O, and C−C bond formations. High activity, regio‐, chemo‐, and stereoselectivities are obtained for hydroelementation and domino processes, underlining the excellent performance (TONs and TOFs) of these IPy‐based ligands in gold catalysis. The gold‐catalyzed domino reactions of 1,6‐enynes give rise to functionalized heterocycles in excellent isolated yields under mild conditions. The efficiency of the NHC gold 5Me complex is remarkable and mostly arises from a combination of steric protection and stabilization of the cationic AuI active species by ligand 1Me.
Integration of Lateral Filter Arrays with Immunoaffinity for Circulating‐Tumor‐Cell Isolation
Authors: Chen Kangfu , Dopico Pablo , Varillas Jose , Zhang Jinling , George Thomas J. , Fan Z. Hugh
Published: April 2019

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are an important biomarker for cancer prognosis and treatment monitoring. However, the heterogeneity of the physical and biological properties of CTCs limits the efficiency of various approaches used to isolate small numbers of CTCs from billions of normal blood cells. To address this challenge, we developed a lateral filter array microfluidic (LFAM) device to integrate size‐based separation with immunoaffinity‐based CTC isolation. The LFAM device consists of a serpentine main channel, through which most of a sample passes, and an array of lateral filters for CTC isolation. The unique device design produces a two‐dimensional flow, which reduces nonspecific, geometric capture of normal cells as typically observed in vertical filters. The LFAM device was further functionalized by immobilizing antibodies that are specific to the target cells. The resulting devices captured pancreatic cancer cells spiked in blood samples with (98.7±1.2) % efficiency and were used to isolate CTCs from patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.
Pore‐Surface Engineering by Decorating Metal‐Oxo Nodes with Phenylsilane to Give Versatile Super‐Hydrophobic Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs)
Authors: Sun Dengrong , Adiyala Praveen Reddy , Yim Se‐Jun , Kim Dong‐Pyo
Published: April 2019

Hydrophobization of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) is important to push forward their practical use and thus has attracted increasing interest. In contrast to the previous reports, which mainly focused on the modification of organic ligands in MOFs, herein, we reported a novel strategy to decorate the metal‐oxo nodes of MOFs with phenylsilane to afford super‐hydrophobic NH2‐UiO‐66(Zr), which shows highly improved base resistance and holds great promise in versatile applications, such as organic/water separation, self‐cleaning, and liquid‐marble fabrication. This work demonstrates the first attempt at metal‐oxo node modification for super‐hydrophobic MOFs, advancing a new concept in the design of MOFs with controlled wettability for practical applications.
Reaction Environment Modification in Covalent Organic Frameworks for Catalytic Performance Enhancement
Authors: Sun Qi , Tang Yongquan , Aguila Briana , Wang Sai , Xiao Feng‐Shou , Thallapally Praveen K. , Al‐Enizi Abdullah M. , Nafady Ayman , Ma Shengqian
Published: April 2019

Herein, we show how the spatial environment in the functional pores of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) can be manipulated in order to exert control in catalysis. The underlying mechanism of this strategy relies on the placement of linear polymers in the pore channels that are anchored with catalytic species, analogous to outer‐sphere residue cooperativity within the active sites of enzymes. This approach benefits from the flexibility and enriched concentration of the functional moieties on the linear polymers, enabling the desired reaction environment in close proximity to the active sites, thereby impacting the reaction outcomes. Specifically, in the representative dehydration of fructose to produce 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural, dramatic activity and selectivity improvements have been achieved for the active center of sulfonic acid groups in COFs after encapsulation of polymeric solvent analogues 1‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidinone and ionic liquid.
Hydrogel Microellipsoids that Form Robust String‐Like Assemblies at the Air/Water Interface
Authors: Honda Kenshiro , Sazuka Yuka , Iizuka Kojiro , Matsui Shusuke , Uchihashi Takayuki , Kureha Takuma , Shibayama Mitsuhiro , Watanabe Takumi , Suzuki Daisuke
Published: April 2019

Soft colloidal particles such as hydrogel microspheres assemble at air/water or oil/water interfaces, where the soft colloids are highly deformed and their surface polymer chains are highly entangled with each other. Herein, we report the formation of robust one‐dimensional, string‐like colloidal assemblies through self‐organization of hydrogel microspheres with shape anisotropy at the air/water interface of sessile droplets. Shape‐anisotropic hydrogel microspheres were synthesized via two‐step polymerization, whereby a hydrogel shell was formed onto preformed rigid microellipsoids. The shape anisotropy of the hydrogel microspheres was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy and high‐speed atomic force microscopy as well as by light‐scattering measurements. The present findings are crucial for the understanding of natural self‐organization phenomena, where “softness” influences microscopic assembled structures such as those of Nostoc bacteria.
Light‐Controlled Conformational Switch of an Aromatic Oligoamide Foldamer
Authors: Gole Bappaditya , Kauffmann Brice , Maurizot Victor , Huc Ivan , Ferrand Yann
Published: April 2019

An aromatic oligoamide sequence composed of a light‐responsive diazaanthracene‐based aromatic β‐sheet flanked by two variable diameter helical segments was prepared. Structural investigations revealed that such oligomers adopt two distinct conformations: a canonical symmetrical conformation with the two helices stacked above and below the sheet, and an unanticipated unsymmetrical conformation in which one helix has flipped to directly stack with the first helix. Photoirradiation of the foldamer led to the quantitative, and thermally reversible, formation of a single photoproduct resulting from the [4+4] cycloaddition of two diazaanthracenes within the aromatic β‐sheet. NMR and crystallographic studies revealed a parallel arrangement of the diazaanthracene photoproduct and a complete conversion into a symmetrical conformation requiring a rearrangement of all unsymmetrical conformers. These results highlight the potential of foldamers, with structures more complex than isolated helices, for the design of photoswitches showing nontrivial nanometer scale shape changes.
Metal–Organic Framework (MOF) Hybrid as a Tandem Catalyst for Enhanced Therapy against Hypoxic Tumor Cells
Authors: Liu Jintong , Liu Tianrui , Du Ping , Zhang Lei , Lei Jianping
Published: April 2019

Encapsulation of active biomolecules and/or nanoparticles in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) remains a great challenge in biomedical applications. In this work, through a stepwise in situ growth method, a black phosphorus quantum dot (BQ) and catalase were precisely encapsulated into the inner and outer layers of MOFs, respectively. The integrated MOF system as a tandem catalyst could convert H2O2 into O2 in MOF‐stabilized catalase outer layer, and then O2 was directly injected into MOF‐sensitized BQ inner, leading to high quantum yield of singlet oxygen. Upon internalization, the photodynamic therapy efficiency of the MOF system was 8.7‐fold greater than that without catalase, showing an enhanced therapeutic effect against hypoxic tumor cells. Furthermore, by coupling with photothermal therapy of BQs, photodynamic‐thermal synergistic therapy was realized both in vitro and in vivo.
The Interrupted Pummerer Reaction in a Sulfoxide‐Catalyzed Oxidative Coupling of 2‐Naphthols
Authors: He Zhen , Pulis Alexander P. , Procter David J.
Published: April 2019

A benzothiophene S‐oxide catalyst, generated in situ by sulfur oxidation with H2O2, mediates the oxidative coupling of 2‐naphthols. Key to the catalytic process is the capture and inversion of reactivity of a 2‐naphthol partner, using an interrupted Pummerer reaction of an unusual benzothiophene S‐oxide, followed by subsequent coupling with a second partner. The new catalytic manifold has been showcased in the synthesis of the bioactive natural products, (±)‐nigerone and (±)‐isonigerone. Although Pummerer reactions are used widely, their application in catalysis is rare, and our approach represents a new catalytic manifold for metal‐free C−C bond formation.
Intrinsic White‐Light‐Emitting Metal–Organic Frameworks with Structurally Deformable Secondary Building Units
Authors: Peng Chengdong , Song Xueling , Yin Jinlin , Zhang Guiyang , Fei Honghan
Published: April 2019

The secondary building units in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are commonly well‐defined metal–oxo clusters or chains with very limited structural strain. Herein, the structurally deformable haloplumbate units that are often observed in organolead halide perovskites have been successfully incorporated into MOFs. The resultant materials are a rare class of isoreticular MOFs exhibiting large Stokes‐shifted broadband white‐light emission, which is probably induced by self‐trapped excitons from electron–phonon coupling in the deformable, zigzag [Pb2X3]+ (X=Cl, Br, or I) chains. In contrast, MOFs with highly symmetric, robust haloplumbate chains only exhibit narrow UV–blue photoemission. The designed MOF‐based intrinsic white‐light photoemitters have a number of advantages over hybrid inorganic–organic perovskites in terms of stability and tunability, including moisture resistance, facile functionalization of photoactive moieties onto the organic linkers, introduction of luminescent guests.
Improvement of carbon nanotube dispersion in electrospun polyacrylonitrile fiber through plasma surface modification
Authors: Gürsoy Mehmet , Özcan Fatih , Karaman Mustafa
Published: April 2019

In this study, surfaces of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were functionalized with poly(hexafluorobutyl acrylate) (PHFBA) thin film using a rotating‐bed plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) method without imparting any defects on their surfaces. Polyacrylonitrile (PAN) electrospun polymer fiber mats and composite fiber mats with CNTs and functionalized CNTs (f‐CNTs) were prepared. The wettability and chemical and morphological properties of the synthesized fiber mats were investigated, and the dispersion of CNTs and f‐CNTs in the polymer matrix was compared according to the contact angle results of electrospun polymer mats. According to the chemical and morphological characterization results, PHFBA‐coated CNTs were dispersed more uniformly in the polymer matrix than the uncoated CNTs. The f‐CNTs/PAN composite fiber mat exhibits a lower surface energy than the pristine CNTs/PAN fiber mat. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47768.
Fire properties of carbon fiber reinforced polymer improved by coating nonwoven flame retardant mat for aerospace application
Authors: Li Jingjing , Zhu Chenkai , Zhao Zhongjie , Khalili Pooria , Clement Mandy , Tong Jianfeng , Liu Xiaoling , Yi Xiaosu
Published: April 2019

In this study, two types of carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) flame retardant composites, CFRP@MatEG‐GF and CFRP@MatEG‐GF‐MW (EG, GF, and MW are the acronyms of expandable graphite, glass fiber and mineral wool, respectively), were prepared via compression molding, with expandable graphite‐based mat incorporated at the surface of the CFRP. The results showed that compared with the control CFRP, both CFRP@MatEG‐GF and CFRP@MatEG‐GF‐MW passed vertical burner test and 45° burner test according to FAR25.853. Moreover, the limiting oxygen index (LOI) values of both CFRP@MatEG‐GF and CFRP@MatEG‐GF‐MW were increased, and the peak of heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release (THR) were reduced. Besides, CFRP@MatEG‐GF‐MW had higher flame retardancy than CFRP@MatEG‐GF. This was attributed to the formation of a more stable and dense carbon layer structure. The mechanical test results showed that the tensile strength of CFRP@MatEG‐GF‐MW was higher than that of CFRP@MatEG‐GF. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47801.
The Epidemiology of Antiphospholipid Syndrome: A Population‐Based Study
Authors: Duarte‐García Ali , Pham Michael M. , Crowson Cynthia S. , Amin Shreyasee , Moder Kevin G. , Pruthi Rajiv K. , Warrington Kenneth J. , Matteson Eric. L.
Published: April 2019

Objective

To estimate the annual incidence and prevalence of and frequency of mortality associated with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).

Methods

An inception cohort of patients with incident APS in 2000–2015 from a geographically well‐defined population was identified based on comprehensive individual medical records review. All cases met the 2006 Sydney criteria for APS (primary definition) or had a diagnosis of APS confirmed by physician consensus (secondary definition). Levels of lupus anticoagulant, IgM and IgG anticardiolipin antibodies, and anti–β2‐glycoprotein I antibodies were tested in a centralized laboratory. Incidence rates were age‐ and sex‐adjusted to the 2010 US white population. Prevalence estimates were obtained from the incidence rates, assuming that there was no increased mortality associated with APS and that migration in or out of the area was independent of disease status.

Results

Among this cohort in 2000–2015, 33 cases of incident APS, as defined by the Sydney criteria, were identified (mean age of patients 54.2 years; 55% female, 97% white). The annual incidence of APS in adults ages ≥18 years was 2.1 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 1.4–2.8) per 100,000 population. Incidence rates were similar in both sexes. The estimated prevalence of APS was 50 (95% CI 42–58) per 100,000 population, and was similar in both sexes. Six patients (18%) had a concurrent diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus. The most frequent clinical manifestation was deep vein thrombosis. The overall frequency of mortality among patients with APS was not significantly different from that in the general population (standardized mortality ratio 1.61, 95% CI 0.74–3.05).

Conclusion

APS occurred in ~2 persons per 100,000 population per year. The estimated prevalence was 50 per 100,000 population. Overall mortality was not notably different from that observed in the general population.
Desymmetrization‐Oriented Enantioselective Synthesis of Silicon‐Stereogenic Silanes by Palladium‐Catalyzed C−H Olefinations
Authors: Lin Yan , Ma Wei‐Yang , Xu Zheng , Zheng Zhan‐Jiang , Cao Jian , Yang Ke‐Fang , Cui Yu‐Ming , Xu Li‐Wen
Published: April 2019

A palladium‐catalyzed chelation‐assisted enantioselective C−H olefination of symmetrically diaryl‐substituted tetraorganosilicon derivatives was developed, enabling the generation of nitrogen‐containing silicon‐stereogenic tetraorganosilicon compounds with modest to good yields and good to excellent enantioselectivities (up to 95.5:4.5 e.r.). The Thorpe–Ingold effect exerted by the substituents on silicon was observed to have a profound influence on formation of olefinated products which were further converted into other relevant chiral organosilanes without the loss of enantiomeric purity, thus demonstrating the synthetic utility of the developed enantioselective olefination.
Improving the cost effectiveness of enhanced green fluorescent protein production using recombinant Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3): Decreasing the expression inducer concentration
Authors: Lopes Camila , dos Santos Nathalia Vieira , Dupont Jana , Pedrolli Danielle Biscaro , Valentini Sandro Roberto , de Carvalho Santos‐Ebinuma Valéria , Pereira Jorge Fernando Brandão
Published: April 2019

Green fluorescent protein (GFP) is a globular protein used as biosensor and biomarker in medical and industrial fields. However, due to the expensive production costs of expressing proteins using high‐cost inducers like isopropyl‐β‐d‐1‐thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG), the number of GFP applications are still scarce. This work studied the production of enhanced GFP (EGFP) using Escherichia coli BL21 (DE3) [pLysS; pET28(a)], aiming to increase its yield and reduce costs. First, the influence of agitation rate, induction time, and concentration of IPTG in the production of EGFP was evaluated, but only the first two parameters were significant. Subsequently, aiming to reduce costs related to the use of inducer, the IPTG concentration (0.005, 0.010, and 0.025 mM) was decreased and, interestingly, the production levels were maintained or increased. These results show that a proper choice of production conditions, particularly through the decrease of inducer concentration, is effective to reduce the upstream production costs and guarantee high EGFP expression.
Begegnungen der besonderen Art im Zoo
Authors: Looß Maike
Published: April 2019

Die Materialien der „Zooschule Braunschweig“ – einer Kooperation der Abteilung Biologie und Biologiedidaktik des IFdN (Institut für Fachdidaktik der Naturwissenschaften an der TU Braunschweig) mit dem Arche‐Noah‐Zoo Braunschweig‐Stöckheim sowie dem Tierpark Essehof – sind als Anregungen zum eigenständigen Erkunden, Experimentieren und Untersuchen für Lehrkräfte und andere Zoobesucher konzipiert. Neben der Entwicklung ganzer Unterrichts‐Pakete mit Materialkisten wurden von Lehramtsstudierenden interaktive Informationstafeln sowie Kinder‐Zooführer entwickelt.
„MenschenWelt“ – Eine Ausstellung, wie wir Menschen unsere Erde verändern (sollten)
Authors: Kahmann Birte
Published: April 2019

Animationen, Trickfilme, Hörstationen – in der Ausstellung „Menschen Welt“ verdeutlichen interaktive Stationen wie Konsum und Aktivitäten in Deutschland mit Ökosystemen, Klima und Lebensqualität auf der ganzen Welt zusammenhängen. Die Ausstellung der Deutschen Bundesstiftung Umwelt macht Komplexes einfach, Globales überschaubar und zeigt Lösungswege auf, um scheinbar unlösbare Probleme konsequent anzugehen.
Applying statistics to the gatekeeping of expert evidence: Introducing the Structured Statistical Judgement (SSJ)
Authors: Andretta James R. , Morgan Grant B. , Cantone Jason A. , Renbarger Rachel L.
Published: April 2019

Daubert required judges to base their decisions about the admissibility of expert witness testimony in large part on the reliability and validity of empirical observations. Because judges have a wide array of duties and may not be equipped to understand the complexities of statistical analysis, some jurists have recommended that court‐appointed experts assist judges in their gatekeeping function. To assist such experts in scrutinizing empirical papers, we propose a Structured Statistical Judgement (SSJ) that takes advantage of advances in the various statistical methods – such as effect sizes that adjust for error – which have allowed researchers to report increasingly more reliable and valid observations. We also include supplementary materials that court‐appointed experts can use both as a codebook to operationalize the SSJ and as a quick reference that will aid consultation with judges. An initial application of the SSJ examined all 93 empirical articles published in Psychology, Public Policy, and Law and Law and Human Behavior in 2015 and resulted in excellent interrater reliability (π = 0.83; π = 0.95; π = 0.97), at the same time it indicated that a majority of the articles fail to include the comprehensive and transparent statistical analysis that would be most useful to courts.
A novel method for constructing an acellular 3D biomatrix from bovine spinal cord for neural tissue engineering applications
Authors: Arslan Yavuz Emre , Efe Burcu , Sezgin Arslan Tugba
Published: April 2019

In this study, we aimed at generating 3‐dimensional (3D) decellularized bovine spinal cord extracellular matrix‐based scaffolds (3D‐dCBS) for neural tissue engineering applications. Within this scope, bovine spinal cord tissue pieces were homogenized in 0.1 M NaOH and this viscous mixture was molded to attain 3D bioscaffolds. After resultant bioscaffolds were chemically crosslinked, the decellularization process was conducted with detergent, buffer, and enzyme solutions. Nuclear remnants in the native tissue and 3D‐dCBS were determined with DNA content analysis and agarose gel electrophoresis. Afterward, 3D‐dCBS were biochemically characterized in depth via glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content, hydroxyproline (HYP) assay, and sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE). Cellular survival of human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) on the 3D‐dCBS for 3rd, 7th, and 10th days was assessed via MTT assay. Scaffold and cell/scaffold constructs were also evaluated with scanning electron microscopy and histochemical studies. DNA contents for native and 3D‐dCBS were respectively found to be 520.76 ± 18.11 and 28.80 ± 0.20 ng/mg dry weight (n = 3), indicating a successful decellularization process. GAG content, HYP assay, and SDS‐PAGE results proved that the extracellular matrix was substantially preserved during the decellularization process. In conclusion, it is believed that the novel decellularization method may allow fabricating 3D bioscaffolds with desired geometry from soft nervous system tissues.
Protein arginine methyltransferase 5: A novel therapeutic target for triple‐negative breast cancers
Authors: Vinet Mathilde , Suresh Samyuktha , Maire Virginie , Monchecourt Clarisse , Némati Fariba , Lesage Laetitia , Pierre Fabienne , Ye Mengliang , Lescure Auriane , Brisson Amélie , Meseure Didier , Nicolas André , Rigaill Guillem , Marangoni Elisabetta , Del Nery Elaine , Roman‐Roman Sergio , Dubois Thierry
Published: April 2019

TNBC is a highly heterogeneous and aggressive breast cancer subtype associated with high relapse rates, and for which no targeted therapy yet exists. Protein arginine methyltransferase 5 (PRMT5), an enzyme which catalyzes the methylation of arginines on histone and non‐histone proteins, has recently emerged as a putative target for cancer therapy. Potent and specific PRMT5 inhibitors have been developed, but the therapeutic efficacy of PRMT5 targeting in TNBC has not yet been demonstrated. Here, we examine the expression of PRMT5 in a human breast cancer cohort obtained from the Institut Curie, and evaluate the therapeutic potential of pharmacological inhibition of PRMT5 in TNBC. We find that PRMT5 mRNA and protein are expressed at comparable levels in TNBC, luminal breast tumors, and healthy mammary tissues. However, immunohistochemistry analyses reveal that PRMT5 is differentially localized in TNBC compared to other breast cancer subtypes and to normal breast tissues. PRMT5 is heterogeneously expressed in TNBC and high PRMT5 expression correlates with poor prognosis within this breast cancer subtype. Using the small‐molecule inhibitor EPZ015666, we show that PRMT5 inhibition impairs cell proliferation in a subset of TNBC cell lines. PRMT5 inhibition triggers apoptosis, regulates cell cycle progression and decreases mammosphere formation. Furthermore, EPZ015666 administration to a patient‐derived xenograft model of TNBC significantly deters tumor progression. Finally, we reveal potentiation between EGFR and PRMT5 targeting, suggestive of a beneficial combination therapy. Our findings highlight a distinctive subcellular localization of PRMT5 in TNBC, and uphold PRMT5 targeting, alone or in combination, as a relevant treatment strategy for a subset of TNBC.
Support student‐athletes’ transition to life after athletics
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: April 2019

BOSTON — From higher rates of academic adjustment, institutional attachment, and graduation to lower levels of loneliness and a more positive overall experience, the statistics paint a very positive picture of college student‐athletes on campus.
Consider the challenges facing pregnant student‐athletes
Authors: Santovec Mary Lou
Published: April 2019

When Candice Williams, Ph.D., LPC, NCC, was choosing her dissertation topic, the one thing she most wanted to do was make a difference. Her doctoral research has plumbed an issue that promises to directly impact the lives of pregnant college student‐athletes.
Cablinosides A and B, Two Glycosidic Phenylacetic Acid Derivatives from the Leaves of Pogostemon cablin
Authors: Huang Xiao‐Jun , Li Ping , Yin Zhi‐Qi , Lu Jin‐Jian , Lin Li‐Gen , Wang Ying , Ye Wen‐Cai , Zhang Qing‐Wen
Published: April 2019

A pair of new glycosidic epimers, cablinosides A (1a) and B (1b) were isolated from the leaves of Pogostemon cablin. The structures with absolute configurations of 1a and 1b were elucidated by extensive NMR investigation, and quantum chemical CD calculations. The epimer mixture 1 showed moderate α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity and no significant cytotoxic activity against HepG2 cells.
Near‐Infrared Bioluminescence Imaging with a through‐Bond Energy Transfer Cassette
Authors: Abe Masahiro , Nishihara Ryo , Ikeda Yuma , Nakajima Takahiro , Sato Moritoshi , Iwasawa Naoko , Nishiyama Shigeru , Paulmurugan Ramasamy , Citterio Daniel , Kim Sung Bae , Suzuki Koji
Published: April 2019

A coelenterazine (CTZ) analogue emitting near‐infrared (NIR) bioluminescence was synthesized for through‐bond energy transfer (TBET)‐based imaging modalities. The analogue, named Cy5‐CTZ, was prepared by conjugating cyanine‐5 (Cy5) dye to CTZ through an acetylene linker. This novel derivative is intrinsically fluorescent and emits NIR‐shifted luminescence upon reacting with an appropriate luciferase, the Renilla luciferase. This Cy5‐CTZ substrate is optically stable in physiological samples and rapidly permeabilize through the plasma membrane into the cytosolic compartment of live cells.
Intracellular and Cellular Detection by SERS‐Active Plasmonic Nanostructures
Authors: Wu Di , Chen Yonghao , Hou Shuai , Fang Wenjun , Duan Hongwei
Published: April 2019

Surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), with greatly amplified fingerprint spectra, holds great promise in biochemical and biomedical research. In particular, the possibility of exciting a library of SERS probes and differentially detecting them simultaneously has stimulated widespread interest in multiplexed biodetection. Herein, recent progress in developing SERS‐active plasmonic nanostructures for cellular and intracellular detection is summarized. The development of nanosensors with tailored plasmonic and multifunctional properties for profiling molecular and pathological processes is highlighted. Future challenges towards the routine use of SERS technology in quantitative bioanalysis and clinical diagnostics are further discussed.