bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunology‐Guided Biomaterial Design for Mucosal Cancer Vaccines
Authors: Ferber Shiran , Gonzalez Rodrigo J. , Cryer Alexander M. , von Andrian Ulrich H. , Artzi Natalie
Published: December 2019

Cancer of mucosal tissues is a major cause of worldwide mortality for which only palliative treatments are available for patients with late‐stage disease. Engineered cancer vaccines offer a promising approach for inducing antitumor immunity. The route of vaccination plays a major role in dictating the migratory pattern of lymphocytes, and thus vaccine efficacy in mucosal tissues. Parenteral immunization, specifically subcutaneous and intramuscular, is the most common vaccination route. However, this induces marginal mucosal protection in the absence of tissue‐specific imprinting signals. To circumvent this, the mucosal route can be utilized, however degradative mucosal barriers must be overcome. Hence, vaccine administration route and selection of materials able to surmount transport barriers are important considerations in mucosal cancer vaccine design. Here, an overview of mucosal immunity in the context of cancer and mucosal cancer clinical trials is provided. Key considerations are described regarding the design of biomaterial‐based vaccines that will afford antitumor immune protection at mucosal surfaces, despite limited knowledge surrounding mucosal vaccination, particularly aided by biomaterials and mechanistic immune–material interactions. Finally, an outlook is given of how future biomaterial‐based mucosal cancer vaccines will be shaped by new discoveries in mucosal vaccinology, tumor immunology, immuno‐therapeutic screens, and material–immune system interplay.
Graphene Quantum Dots and Their Applications in Bioimaging, Biosensing, and Therapy
Authors: Chung Seokhwan , Revia Richard A. , Zhang Miqin
Published: December 2019

Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are carbon‐based, nanoscale particles that exhibit excellent chemical, physical, and biological properties that allow them to excel in a wide range of applications in nanomedicine. The unique electronic structure of GQDs confers functional attributes onto these nanomaterials such as strong and tunable photoluminescence for use in fluorescence bioimaging and biosensing, a high loading capacity of aromatic compounds for small‐molecule drug delivery, and the ability to absorb incident radiation for use in the cancer‐killing techniques of photothermal and photodynamic therapy. Recent advances in the development of GQDs as novel, multifunctional biomaterials are presented with a focus on their physicochemical, electronic, magnetic, and biological properties, along with a discussion of technical progress in the synthesis of GQDs. Progress toward the application of GQDs in bioimaging, biosensing, and therapy is reviewed, along with a discussion of the current limitations and future directions of this exciting material.
Chiral Surface and Geometry of Metal Nanocrystals
Authors: Im Sang Won , Ahn Hyo‐Yong , Kim Ryeong Myeong , Cho Nam Heon , Kim Hyeohn , Lim Yae‐Chan , Lee Hye‐Eun , Nam Ki Tae
Published: December 2019

Chirality is a basic property of nature and has great importance in photonics, biochemistry, medicine, and catalysis. This importance has led to the emergence of the chiral inorganic nanostructure field in the last two decades, providing opportunities to control the chirality of light and biochemical reactions. While the facile production of 3D nanostructures has remained a major challenge, recent advances in nanocrystal synthesis have provided a new pathway for efficient control of chirality at the nanoscale by transferring molecular chirality to the geometry of nanocrystals. Interestingly, this discovery stems from a purely crystallographic outcome: chirality can be generated on high‐Miller‐index surfaces, even for highly symmetric metal crystals. This is the starting point herein, with an overview of the scientific history and a summary of the crystallographic definition. With the advance of nanomaterial synthesis technology, high‐Miller‐index planes can be selectively exposed on metallic nanoparticles. The enantioselective interaction of chiral molecules and high‐Miller‐index facets can break the mirror symmetry of the metal nanocrystals. Herein, the fundamental principle of chirality evolution is emphasized and it is shown how chiral surfaces can be directly correlated with chiral morphologies, thus serving as a guide for researchers in chiral catalysts, chiral plasmonics, chiral metamaterials, and photonic devices.
In Vivo Sequestration of Innate Small Molecules to Promote Bone Healing
Authors: Zeng Yuze , Shih Yu‐Ru V. , Baht Gurpreet S. , Varghese Shyni
Published: December 2019

Approaches that enable innate repair mechanisms hold great potential for tissue repair. Herein, biomaterial‐assisted sequestration of small molecules is described to localize pro‐regenerative signaling at the injury site. Specifically, a synthetic biomaterial containing boronate molecules is designed to sequester adenosine, a small molecule ubiquitously present in the human body. The biomaterial‐assisted sequestration of adenosine leverages the transient surge of extracellular adenosine following injury to prolong local adenosine signaling. It is demonstrated that implantation of the biomaterial patch following injury establishes an in situ stockpile of adenosine, resulting in accelerated healing by promoting both osteoblastogenesis and angiogenesis. The adenosine content within the patch recedes to the physiological level as the tissue regenerates. In addition to sequestering endogenous adenosine, the biomaterial is also able to deliver exogenous adenosine to the site of injury, offering a versatile solution to utilizing adenosine as a potential therapeutic for tissue repair.
From Molecular Machines to Stimuli‐Responsive Materials
Authors: Moulin Emilie , Faour Lara , Carmona‐Vargas Christian C. , Giuseppone Nicolas
Published: December 2019

Artificial molecular machines are able to produce and exploit precise nanoscale actuations in response to chemical or physical triggers. Recent scientific efforts have been devoted to the integration, orientation, and interfacing of large assemblies of molecular machines in order to harness their collective actuations at larger length scale and up to the generation of macroscopic motions. Making use of such “hierarchical mechanics” represents a fundamentally new approach for the conception of stimuli‐responsive materials. Furthermore, because some molecular machines can function as molecular motors—which are capable of cycling a unidirectional motion out of thermodynamic equilibrium and progressively increasing the work delivered to their environment—one can expect unique opportunities to design new kinds of mechanically active materials and devices capable of autonomous behavior when supplied by an external source of energy. Recently reported achievements are summarized, including the integration of molecular machines at surfaces and interfaces, in 3D self‐assembled materials, as well as in liquid crystals and polymer materials. Their detailed functioning principles as well as their functional properties are discussed along with their potential applications in various domains such as sensing, drug delivery, electronics, optics, plasmonics, and mechanics.
A Sub‐10 nm Vertical Organic/Inorganic Hybrid Transistor for Pain‐Perceptual and Sensitization‐Regulated Nociceptor Emulation
Authors: Feng Guangdi , Jiang Jie , Zhao Yuhang , Wang Shitan , Liu Biao , Yin Kai , Niu Dongmei , Li Xiaohui , Chen Yiqin , Duan Huigao , Yang Junliang , He Jun , Gao Yongli , Wan Qing
Published: December 2019

Pain‐perceptual nociceptors (PPN) are essential sensory neurons that recognize harmful stimuli and can empower the human body to react appropriately and perceive precisely unusual or dangerous conditions in the real world. Furthermore, the sensitization‐regulated nociceptors (SRN) can greatly assist pain‐sensitive human to reduce pain sensation by normalizing hyperexcitable central neural activity. Therefore, the implementation of PPNs and SRNs in hardware using emerging nanoscale devices can greatly improve the efficiency of bionic medical machines by giving them different sensitivities to external stimuli according to different purposes. However, current most‐normal organic/oxide transistors face a great challenge due to channel scaling, especially in the sub‐10 nm channel technology. Here, a sub‐10 nm indium‐tin‐oxide transistor with an ultrashort vertical channel as low as ≈3 nm, using sodium alginate bio‐polymer electrolyte as gate dielectric, is demonstrated. This device can emulate important characteristics of PPN such as pain threshold, memory of prior injury, and pain sensitization/desensitization. Furthermore, the most intriguing character of SRN can be achieved by tuning the channel thickness. The proposed device can open new avenues for the fascinating applications of next‐generation neuromorphic brain‐like systems, such as bio‐inspired electronic skins and humanoid robots.
Scleral Lens Sensor for Ocular Electrolyte Analysis
Authors: Yetisen Ali K. , Jiang Nan , Castaneda Gonzalez Carmen M. , Erenoglu Zeynep Izlen , Dong Jie , Dong Xingchen , Stößer Simon , Brischwein Martin , Butt Haider , Cordeiro Maria F. , Jakobi Martin , Hayden Oliver , Koch Alexander W.
Published: December 2019

The quantitative analysis of tear analytes in point‐of‐care settings can enable early diagnosis of ocular diseases. Here, a fluorescent scleral lens sensor is developed to quantitatively measure physiological levels of pH, Na+, K+, Ca2+, Mg2+, and Zn2+ ions. Benzenedicarboxylic acid, a pH probe, displays a sensitivity of 0.12 pH units within pH 7.0–8.0. Crown ether derivatives exhibit selectivity to Na+ and K+ ions within detection ranges of 0–100 and 0–50 mmol L−1, and selectivities of 15.6 and 8.1 mmol L−1, respectively. A 1,2 bis(o‐aminophenoxy)ethane‐N,N,‐N',N'‐tetraacetic‐acid‐based probe allows Ca2+ ion sensing with 0.02–0.05 mmol L−1 sensitivity within 0.50–1.25 mmol L−1 detection range. 5‐Oxazolecarboxylic acid senses Mg2+ ions, exhibiting a sensitivity of 0.10–0.44 mmol L−1 within the range of 0.5–0.8 mmol L−1. The N‐(2‐methoxyphenyl)iminodiacetate Zn2+ ion sensor has a sensitivity of 1 µmol L−1 within the range of 10–20 µmol L−1. The fluorescent sensors are subsequently multiplexed in the concavities of an engraved scleral lens. A handheld ophthalmic readout device comprising light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) and bandpass filters is fabricated to excite as well as read the scleral sensor. A smartphone camera application and an user interface are developed to deliver quantitative measurements with data deconvolution. The ophthalmic system enables the assessment of dry eye severity stages and the differentiation of its subtypes.
A Versatile Polymer‐Based Platform for Intracellular Delivery of Macromolecules
Authors: Kopytynski Michal , Chen Siyuan , Legg Sandrine , Minter Ralph , Chen Rongjun
Published: December 2019

The plasma membrane barrier greatly restricts intracellular delivery of macromolecules. Currently available methods suffer from various limitations, including low delivery efficiency, high cytotoxicity, or incompatibility with a wider range of macromolecules or cell types. To overcome these issues, stimuli‐responsive polymers such as the bio‐inspired, pH‐responsive poly(l‐lysine isophthalamide) grafted with l‐phenylalanine at a stoichiometric ratio of 50% (PP50) can be used. In mildly acidic environments, the pseudopeptidic polymer can permeabilize the plasma membrane overcoming the problem of payload entrapment in the endosomes and allowing for efficient intracellular delivery. It is demonstrated that PP50 is capable of intracellular delivery by simple co‐incubation at pH 6.5 with various macromolecules, including different‐sized Dextrans, green fluorescent protein (GFP), and an apoptotic peptide. The delivery process is fast, nontoxic, and compatible with multiple cell types, including adherent and suspension cell lines, primary human mesenchymal stem cells, and cells grown as spheroids. In addition, apoptotic peptide delivery by co‐incubation with PP50 is over three times more effective than delivery using other common methods, including poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI), cell penetrating peptides (CPPs), and electroporation. The findings suggest that payload delivery by co‐incubation with PP50 is a flexible, controllable method allowing delivery of various payloads to many different cell types in vitro.
Vacuum‐Assisted Growth of Low‐Bandgap Thin Films (FA0.8MA0.2Sn0.5Pb0.5I3) for All‐Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Abdollahi Nejand Bahram , Hossain Ihteaz M. , Jakoby Marius , Moghadamzadeh Somayeh , Abzieher Tobias , Gharibzadeh Saba , Schwenzer Jonas A. , Nazari Pariya , Schackmar Fabian , Hauschild Dirk , Weinhardt Lothar , Lemmer Uli , Richards Bryce S. , Howard Ian A. , Paetzold Ulrich W.
Published: December 2019

All‐perovskite multijunction photovoltaics, combining a wide‐bandgap (WBG) perovskite top solar cell (EG ≈1.6–1.8 eV) with a low‐bandgap (LBG) perovskite bottom solar cell (EG < 1.3 eV), promise power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) >33%. While the research on WBG perovskite solar cells has advanced rapidly over the past decade, LBG perovskite solar cells lack PCE as well as stability. In this work, vacuum‐assisted growth control (VAGC) of solution‐processed LBG perovskite thin films based on mixed Sn–Pb perovskite compositions is reported. The reported perovskite thin films processed by VAGC exhibit large columnar crystals. Compared to the well‐established processing of LBG perovskites via antisolvent deposition, the VAGC approach results in a significantly enhanced charge‐carrier lifetime. The improved optoelectronic characteristics enable high‐performance LBG perovskite solar cells (1.27 eV) with PCEs up to 18.2% as well as very efficient four‐terminal all‐perovskite tandem solar cells with PCEs up to 23%. Moreover, VAGC leads to promising reproducibility and potential in the fabrication of larger active‐area solar cells up to 1 cm2.
Catel–Manzke syndrome without Manzke dysostosis
Authors: Miller Danny E. , Chow Penny , Gallagher Emily R. , Perkins Jonathan A. , Wenger Tara L.
Published: December 2019

Catel–Manzke syndrome is characterized by hand anomalies, Robin sequence, cardiac defects, joint hyperextensibility, and characteristic facial features. Approximately 40 patients with Catel–Manzke have been reported, all with the pathognomonic bilateral or unilateral hyperphalangy caused by an accessory bone between the second metacarpal and proximal phalanx known as Manzke dysostosis. Here we present the first case of molecularly confirmed Catel–Manzke syndrome with Robin sequence but without Manzke dysostosis.
TFE3‐associated neurodevelopmental disorder: A distinct recognizable syndrome
Authors: Diaz Jullianne , Berger Seth , Leon Eyby
Published: December 2019

The transcription factor for immunoglobulin heavy‐chain enhancer 3 (TFE3) gene encodes a transcription factor that regulates embryonic stem cell (ESC) differentiation. Its phosphorylation by the lysosomal Rag GTPase signaling pathway leads to cytoplasmic sequestration and inactivation promoting ESC differentiation and exit from pluripotency. Somatic translocations of this X‐linked gene cause papillary renal cell carcinoma in which nuclear accumulation of the TFE3 oncoprotein is one of the most significant histopathologic characteristics. Early this year, Villegas et al. identified missense mutations in a TFE3 domain required for cytoplasmic inactivation as potentially causal for a mosaic human developmental disorder. They published five patients with de novo TFE3 nonsynonymous missense variants, four females and one male, with severe intellectual disability (5/5), coarse facial features (4/5), and Blaschkoid pigmentary mosaicism (4/5). The only male described has somatic mosaicism. All patients had normal brain Magnetic Resonance Imagings (MRIs). We present two unrelated females with this distinctive phenotype including the above triad along with other features not previously well described. Both were found to have de novo heterozygous variants in TFE3 on whole exome sequencing, one nonsynonymous missense, and one canonical splice site variant, thereby expanding the phenotypic and mutational spectrum for this disorder. Interestingly, due to significant coarsening of the facial features, both patients were initially thought to have a lysosomal storage disorder but enzyme screening and brain MRIs were negative.
Pathogenic homozygous variant in POMK gene is the cause of prenatally detected severe ventriculomegaly in two Lithuanian families
Authors: Preiksaitiene Egle , Voisin Norine , Gueneau Lucie , Benušienė Eglė , Krasovskaja Natalija , Blažytė Evelina Marija , Ambrozaitytė Laima , Rančelis Tautvydas , Reymond Alexandre , Kučinskas Vaidutis
Published: December 2019

Biallelic pathogenic variants in POMK gene are associated with two types of dystroglycanopathies: limb‐girdle muscular dystrophy‐dystroglycanopathy, type C12 (MDDGC12), and congenital muscular dystrophy‐dystroglycanopathy with brain and eye anomalies, type A12 (MDDGA12). These disorders are very rare and have been previously reported in 10 affected individuals. We present two unrelated Lithuanian families with prenatally detected hydrocephalus due to a homozygous nonsense variant in the POMK. The first signs of hydrocephalus in the affected fetuses became evident at 15 weeks of gestation and rapidly progressed, thus these clinical features are compatible with a diagnosis of MDDGA12. The association between pathogenic POMK variants and macrocephaly and severe hydrocephalus has been previously reported only in two families. Clinical and molecular findings presented in this report highlight congenital hydrocephalus as a distinct feature of POMK related disorders and a differentiator from other dystroglycanopathies. These findings further extend the spectrum of MDDGA12 syndrome.
Socioeconomic differences in diet: An isotopic examination of post‐Medieval Chichester, West Sussex
Authors: Dhaliwal Kirandeep , Rando Carolyn , Reade Hazel , Jourdan Anne‐Lise , Stevens Rhiannon E.
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Historical evidence suggests that social hierarchy pervaded all aspects of society in post‐Medieval England. This study uses stable isotope analysis to explore the extent to which socioeconomic status and sex affected the dietary habits of the inhabitants of post‐Medieval Chichester.

Materials and Methods

Stable carbon and nitrogen isotope ratios were measured on 40 human burials from the post‐Medieval site of St. Michael's Litten (Chichester, West Sussex, England). Samples were selected from three burial types that denoted differing socioeconomic status with roughly equal numbers of males and females: tomb burials (n= 13) for high‐status; single coffin burials (n= 14) for middle‐status; and shroud burials (n= 13) for low‐status individuals.

Results

The data showed a largely terrestrial diet with the possibility of some inclusion of marine resources. The isotope results indicate significant variation in the consumption of terrestrial meat (and marine protein) between high‐status tomb burials and coffin and shroud burials, showing that socioeconomic status likely played a role in daily dietary patterns. However, the isotope data suggest sex did not influence an individual's diet.

Discussion

These results mirror trends established in status‐based studies from elsewhere in post‐Medieval England. However, notably absent from the data is evidence for significant marine resource consumption, which is a well‐established dietary trend of the late Medieval and early post‐Medieval periods. These results indicate post‐Medieval Chichester was a socially stratified society with clear implications that the diet of higher status individuals differed significantly from lower status.
Sinonasal quality‐of‐life declines in cystic fibrosis patients with pulmonary exacerbations
Authors: Safi Chetan , DiMango Emily , Keating Claire , Zhou Zian , Gudis David A.
Published: December 2019

Background

In cystic fibrosis (CF), the relationship between chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and pulmonary disease is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between scores on the 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) and CF Questionnaire―revised for adolescents and adults over 14 (CFQ‐R 14+), and pulmonary function tests in 2 cohorts of CF patients: those at their baseline health and those with a pulmonary exacerbation.

Methods

Patients >18 years old seen in a Cystic Fibrosis Foundation‒accredited clinic completed the SNOT‐22 and CFQ‐R 14+ instruments. Patients presenting for routine care represented the baseline cohort. Patients diagnosed with a pulmonary exacerbation represented the exacerbation cohort. Average SNOT‐22 and CFQ‐R 14+ scores for both groups were compared using a 2‐sample t test, and correlation coefficient was calculated.

Results

One hundred three patients were enrolled over 3 months (30 exacerbations and 73 baseline). Patients’ mean age was 32 years (56% female and 44% male). Average SNOT‐22 and CFQ‐R 14+ scores were significantly worse for exacerbation patients (p = 0.001 and p = 0.0003, respectively). Percent predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 second and forced vital capacity were both higher for baseline patients (p = 0.002 and p = 0.001, respectively). Average SNOT‐22 score for all patients was worse than the average score for non‐CF, non‐CRS patients.

Conclusion

CF patients with pulmonary exacerbations have worse SNOT‐22 and CFQ‐R 14+ scores than CF patients at their baseline health. This finding suggests a temporal relationship between sinonasal and pulmonary quality of life, and that worsening of both is associated with reduced pulmonary function.
Combined Intrinsic and Extrinsic Proton Conduction in Robust Covalent Organic Frameworks for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Yang Yi , He Xueyi , Zhang Penghui , Andaloussi Yassin H. , Zhang Hailu , Jiang Zhongyi , Chen Yao , Ma Shengqian , Cheng Peng , Zhang Zhenjie
Published: December 2019

Developing new materials for the fabrication of proton exchange membranes (PEMs) for fuel cells is of great significance. Herein, a series of highly crystalline, porous, and stable new covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have been developed by a stepwise synthesis strategy. The synthesized COFs exhibit high hydrophilicity and excellent stability in strong acid or base (e.g., 12 m NaOH or HCl) and boiling water. These features make them ideal platforms for proton conduction applications. Upon loading with H3PO4, the COFs (H3PO4@COFs) realize an ultrahigh proton conductivity of 1.13×10−1 S cm−1, the highest among all COF materials, and maintain high proton conductivity across a wide relative humidity (40–100 %) and temperature range (20–80 °C). Furthermore, membrane electrode assemblies were fabricated using H3PO4@COFs as the solid electrolyte membrane for proton exchange resulting in a maximum power density of 81 mW cm−2 and a maximum current density of 456 mA cm−2, which exceeds all previously reported COF materials.
The 9H‐9‐Borafluorene Dianion: A Surrogate for Elusive Diarylboryl Anion Nucleophiles
Authors: Gilmer Jannik , Budy Hendrik , Kaese Thomas , Bolte Michael , Lerner Hans‐Wolfram , Wagner Matthias
Published: December 2019

Double reduction of the THF adduct of 9H‐9‐borafluorene (1⋅THF) with excess alkali metal affords the dianion salts M2[1] in essentially quantitative yields (M=Li–K). Even though the added charge is stabilized through π delocalization, [1]2− acts as a formal boron nucleophile toward organoboron (1⋅THF) and tetrel halide electrophiles (MeCl, Et3SiCl, Me3SnCl) to form B−B/C/Si/Sn bonds. The substrate dependence of open‐shell versus closed‐shell pathways has been investigated.
Fabrication of a Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Framework Membrane through Solution Processing for Pressure‐Regulated Gas Separation
Authors: Feng Shou , Shang Yanxue , Wang Zhikun , Kang Zixi , Wang Rongming , Jiang Jianzhuang , Fan Lili , Fan Weidong , Liu Zhanning , Kong Guodong , Feng Yang , Hu Songqing , Guo Hailing , Sun Daofeng
Published: December 2019

Ordered and flexible porous frameworks with solution processability are highly desirable to fabricate continuous and large‐scale membranes for the efficient gas separation. Herein, the first microporous hydrogen‐bonded organic framework (HOF) membrane has been fabricated by an optimized solution‐processing technique. The framework exhibits the superior stability because of the abundant hydrogen bonds and strong π–π interactions. Thanks to the flexible HOF structure, the membrane possesses the unprecedented pressure‐responsive H2/N2 separation performance. Furthermore, the scratched membrane can be healed by the treatment of solvent vapor, achieving the recovery of separation performance.
A Hydrolytically Stable Vanadium(IV) Metal–Organic Framework with Photocatalytic Bacteriostatic Activity for Autonomous Indoor Humidity Control
Authors: Ma Dou , Li Ping , Duan Xiangyu , Li Jiazhen , Shao Pengpeng , Lang Zhongling , Bao Lixia , Zhang Yuanyuan , Lin Zhengguo , Wang Bo
Published: December 2019

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with long‐term stability and reversible high water uptake properties can be ideal candidates for water harvesting and indoor humidity control. Now, a mesoporous and highly stable MOF, BIT‐66 is presented that has indoor humidity control capability and a photocatalytic bacteriostatic effect. BIT‐66 (V3(O)3(H2O)(BTB)2), possesses prominent moisture tunability in the range of 45–60 % RH and a water uptake and working capacity of 71 and 55 wt %, respectively, showing good recyclability and excellent performance in water adsorption–desorption cycles. Importantly, this MOF demonstrates a unique photocatalytic bacteriostatic behavior under visible light, which can effectively ameliorate the bacteria and/or mold breeding problem in water adsorbing materials.
Synthesis, characterization and biological evaluation of N‐substituted triazinane‐2‐thiones and theoretical–experimental mechanism of condensation reaction
Authors: Sujayev Afsun , Taslimi Parham , Kaya Ruya , Safarov Bahruz , Aliyeva Lala , Farzaliyev Vagif , Gulçin İlhami
Published: December 2019

The synthesis of triazinthions and their reactions with some nucleophilic reagents have been investigated during this scientific study. Thus, thiourea with a single component has been synthesized as a result of concomitant reactions of aldehyde and amines trials. The structure of the synthesized compounds was confirmed by 1H, 13C NMR spectroscopy methods. The inhibitory effects of novel N‐substituted triazinane‐2‐thione derivatives on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity were performed according to the spectrophotometric method of Ellman et al. These novel N‐substituted triazinane‐2‐thiones derivatives were effective inhibitors of the α‐glycosidase, cytosolic carbonic anhydrase I and II isoforms (hCA I and II), and Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzymes with Ki values in the range of 1.01 ± 0.28 to 2.12 ± 0.37 nm for α‐glycosidase, 13.44 ± 4.39 to 74.98 ± 6.25 nm for hCA I, 10.41 ± 4.8 to 72.6 ± 17.66 nm for hCA II, 36.82 ± 9.95 to 108.48 ± 1.17 nm for AChE, and 624.62 ± 100.34 to 1124.16 ± 205.14 nm for α‐glycosidase, respectively.
Enhanced mechanical toughness of carbon nanofibrous‐coated surface modified Kevlar reinforced polyurethane/epoxy matrix hybrid composites
Authors: Chakraborty Debrup , Saha Sudipta , Dey Soumyajyoti , Pramanik Sumit
Published: December 2019

High‐performance Kevlar fiber had extensively been explored to upgraded mechanical properties of the advanced composites. Therefore, this study aimed a challenging work to grow carbon nanofibers onto the Kevlar fiber to improve its fiber‐matrix interaction properties. It was successfully done through inexpensive flame deposition as well as modification of matrix with hybrid resin using polyurethane‐epoxy mixture. A hand‐layup method had been adopted to manufacture the composite laminates. The chemical and surface structures of the prepared laminae were examined by scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and the composite's properties were evaluated tensile test, compact tension (CT) fracture test, fractography, and differential scanning calorimetry. The surface modified Kevlar laminae with CNF were used as reinforcing layer in the epoxy and PU/epoxy hybrid resin matrices. CNF‐coated heated Kevlar reinforced laminated PU/epoxy hybrid composites (CNF‐Kev/PU‐Epoxy) showed highest elongation 47% and fracture toughness (11.7 MPa√m) along with good UTS 139 MPa. Therefore, these hybrid nanocomposites developed by simple inexpensive method would be the potential candidates for several advanced applications particularly in defense, automobile, aerospace, and spacecraft applications. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48802.
Poly(vinyl alcohol) triggers Au nanoparticles formation for near‐infrared radiation‐responsive gels and nanofibers
Authors: Alvarez‐Lorenzo Carmen , Mayo‐Olveira Fátima , Barbosa Silvia , Taboada Pablo , Concheiro Angel
Published: December 2019

The capability of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) to reduce noble metal ions and, in turn, to prepare one‐step hybrid systems that exhibit near‐infrared radiation (NIR) light‐responsiveness has been barely explored. The aim of this work was to elucidate whether gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) could be spontaneously formed in PVA gels suitable to be used as syringeable depots or to prepare electrospun nanofibers. To check the hypothesis of that the gold counterion may play a role in the Au NPs formation process, two different gold salts (HAuCl4 and AuAc3) were used. Localized surface plasmon resonance bands were monitored during the incubation of PVA‐gold salt gels, and the photoresponsive capability of the newly formed Au NPs inside gels was investigated during laser irradiation at 808 nm. HET‐CAM assay suggested good biocompatibility. Then, the feasibility of producing electrospun hybrid PVA‐based mats that exhibit light‐responsive photothermal features was explored here for the first time. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48811.
Simultaneously reinforcing and toughening poly(lactic acid) by incorporating reactive melt‐functionalized silica nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Bo , Zhang Xin , Zhang Lutong , Feng Yuezhan , Liu Chuntai , Shen Changyu
Published: December 2019

Simultaneously reinforcing and toughening poly(lactic acid) (PLA) was carried out by adding a small amount of functionalized SiO2 (f‐SiO2) with grafting degraded PLA chains in this work. Typically, the high shear force and high temperature condition of melt blending were employed to accelerate the degradation of PLA and graft the degraded PLA chains onto SiO2.The structure characterizations revealed that large quantity of degraded PLA chains were grafted onto the surface of SiO2 by transesterification, condensation, and esterification reactions during melt blending. Due to the improvement in dispersion and interfacial interaction in PLA matrix, the f‐SiO2 exhibited an effective reinforcing and toughening effect for PLA, where the tensile strength, elongation at break, and impact toughness of PLA/f‐SiO2 nanocomposite increased by 14.9, 47.8, and 30.3% compared to neat PLA. Besides, the degree of crystallinity of PLA was significantly improved by the added f‐SiO2, which also contributed to improving mechanical properties. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48834.
The Normative Unconscious Of Nations: A critical geopolitical and psychoanalytic perspectives on the United Nations Security Council's counterterrorism strategy
Authors: Khouri Lama Z.
Published: December 2019

This paper argues that the United Nations (UN) Security Council counterterrorism policies have largely failed because they did not address many of the conditions that make certain parts of the world a fertile ground for the emergence of terrorism, including the historical antecedents that lead to violence; the lingering and pervasive influence and hegemony of UN Security Council Members; the UN Security Council members' self‐serving and morally inconsistent exercise of their power of veto or in condemning violent acts perpetrated by Member States; and the double standard in the implementation of its policies (Barnett & Finnemore, 1999; Farer, 2002; Glennon, 2003). Utilizing a critical geopolitical perspective, as well as the conceptualizations of the “normative unconscious” (Layton, 2002, 2006) and the “absent referent” (Adams, 1990) of and Benjamin's framework of witnessing and the “moral third” (Benjamin, 2018). The paper further argues that much of what is taken as the status quo in United Nations Security Council counterterrorism policies is derived from ideological principles that were ultimately created in the service of the state apparatuses (and their signature exploitative practices) that governments unconsciously feel compelled to sustain. By making explicit these proclivities, and exposing terrorists as the absent referent of the United Nations Security Council's discussions, the paper offers a psychoanalytic framework to explain the logic behind such counterterrorism policies. Further, following Benjamin, the paper suggests that by moving away from Eurocentric, zero‐sum, and colonial logic, there may be a way to organically recognize populations that are aggrieved by these state apparatuses in a way that could obviate the use of political violence and, inter alia, terrorism.
Development of efficient RNAi in Nezara viridula for use in insecticide target discovery
Authors: Riga Maria , Denecke Shane , Livadaras Ioannis , Geibel Sven , Nauen Ralf , Vontas John
Published: December 2019

Stink bugs are an emerging pest in many regions of the world but their molecular biology is still poorly understood. While several transcriptomes are available, the lack of validated gene manipulation tools like RNA interference (RNAi) in species such as the southern green stinkbug Nezara viridula precludes the characterization of individual genes in vivo. Such tools are particularly useful in performing high‐throughput screens to search for essential genes that can be prioritized as potential insecticide targets. Here, we developed and optimized an efficient RNAi in N. viridula for use in insecticide target discovery and beyond. The visible marker Sex combs reduced and the essential gene Actin were used to verify the usability and efficiency of RNAi by microinjection at both the adult and nymphal stages, respectively, with nymphal approach presenting significant advantages. Following validation, RNAi was then used to measure lethality following the knockdown (KD) of two genes that are known insecticide targets, Chitin synthase, and Acetyl‐CoA carboxylase. The KD of each gene resulted in >75% corrected mortality. These results indicate that RNAi is an effective tool in N. viridula and set a benchmark to evaluate potential targets in future RNAi screens aimed at insecticide target discovery.
Facile Fabrication of Ce/V‐Modified Multi‐Channel TiO2 Nanotubes and Their Enhanced Selective Catalytic Reduction Performance
Authors: Huang Xiaosheng , Zhang Guodong , Tang Zhicheng
Published: December 2019

To optimize one‐dimensional (1D) TiO2 nanofibers, tailor‐made multi‐channel TiO2 nanotubes have been successfully fabricated by electrospinning technology. After loading with Ce and V, the CeVTi‐tube catalyst exhibited a broad working temperature window and acceptable resistance to H2O and SO2 for elimination of NOx. The corresponding analysis revealed that the multi‐channel structure provided more surface adsorbed oxygen species and that the wall of nanotubes anchored active components efficiently, which was beneficial to improve the stability as well as dispersion of the active components. Besides, a synergistic effect between Ce and V easily occurred at the CeVTi‐tube catalyst, and its reducibility was significantly improved since the electron transformation between Ce and V was dramatically enhanced. Consequently, the tailor‐made multi‐channel CeVTi‐tube catalyst exhibited satisfied de‐NOx efficiency at the temperature range of 220–460 °C. It seemed that the multi‐channel TiO2 nanotubes hold great potential as an excellent carrier for SCR catalysts.
Gender and Age Differences in the Suppressive Effect of a 50 Hz Electric Field on the Immobilization‐Induced Increase of Plasma Glucocorticoid in Mice
Authors: Harakawa Shinji , Hori Takuya , Nedachi Takaki , Suzuki Hiroshi
Published: December 2019

We developed an experimental system to characterize the suppressive effect of extremely low‐frequency (ELF) electric fields (EFs) on the stress response. We assessed differences in the EF effects by age and gender. Control, EF‐alone, immobilization‐alone, and co‐treated groups were subjected to an EF (50 Hz, 10 kV/m). Co‐treated mice were exposed to the EF for 60 min, with immobilization during the latter half. Our results indicate that the suppressive effects of ELF EFs on the stress response in immobilized mice occur regardless of gender or age. As stress plays an important role in the onset and progression of various diseases, these findings may have broad implications for understanding the efficacy of EFs in animal, and perhaps human, health. Bioelectromagnetics. 2020;41:156–163. © 2019 Bioelectromagnetics Society.
Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with double-flap technique versus laparoscopic subtotal gastrectomy for proximal early gastric cancer
Authors: Kano Y , Ohashi M , Ida S , Kumagai K , Sano T , Hiki N , Nunobe S
Published: December 2019

Background

Laparoscopic proximal gastrectomy with double-flap technique (LPG-DFT) and laparoscopic subtotal gastrectomy (LSTG) may replace laparoscopic total gastrectomy (LTG) for proximal early gastric cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate short- and long-term outcomes after LPG-DFT and LSTG.

Methods

Patients who underwent LPG-DFT or LSTG at the Cancer Institute Hospital in Tokyo between January 2006 and April 2015 were included in this retrospective study. Operative procedures were selected based on the distance from the cardia to the proximal boundary of the tumour, tumour location and predicted remnant stomach volume. Patient characteristics, surgical data, markers of postoperative nutritional status, such as blood chemistry and bodyweight loss, and endoscopic findings were compared between procedures. The main study outcome was nutritional status.

Results

A total of 161 patients (LPG-DFT 51, LSTG 110) were included. Types of postoperative complication occurring more than 30 days after surgery differed between the two procedures. Remnant stomach ulcers, including anastomotic ulcers, were observed only after LPG-DFT, whereas complications involving the small intestine, such as internal hernia or small bowel obstruction, occurred more frequently after LSTG. Values for total protein, albumin, prealbumin and bodyweight loss were comparable between the two procedures at 36 months after surgery. Haemoglobin concentrations were higher after LPG-DFT than after LSTG at 24 months (13·4 versus 12·8 g/dl respectively; P = 0·045) and 36 months (13·5 versus 12·8 g/dl; P = 0·007) after surgery. The rate of Los Angeles grade B or more severe reflux oesophagitis was comparable.

Conclusion

LPG-DFT and LSTG for proximal early gastric cancer have similar outcomes, but different types of complication.
Prognostic value of early radiological response to first‐line platinum‐containing chemotherapy in patients with metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Liu Guo‐Ying , Li Wang‐Zhong , Peng Kang‐Qiang , Lv Xing , Ke Liang‐Ru , Wu Yi‐Shan , Wang De‐Ling , Liang Hu , Liu Kui‐Yuan , Lv Shu‐Hui , Guo Xiang , Xiang Yan‐Qun , Xia Wei‐Xiong
Published: December 2019

Background

To explore the prognostic value of early radiological response (ERR) to first‐line platinum‐containing chemotherapy in patients with metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (mNPC), as well as its correlation with the best radiological response (BRR).

Patients and methods

A total of 756 mNPC patients with measurable lesions who received first‐line platinum‐containing chemotherapy were enrolled in this study. ERR was defined as complete or partial response after 6 weeks of chemotherapy according to the Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors (RECIST) 1.1. We performed survival analyses according to the radiological response after repeated chemotherapy. Log‐rank test and Cox regression were used to analyze the survival data.

Results

About 470 patients achieved ERR and 78 patients achieved subsequent response (objective response after repeated chemotherapy). ERR patients had better OS (P < .001, median OS: 34.3 vs 22.2 months) and PFS (P < .001, median PFS: 10.2 vs 7.4 months) than non‐ERR ones. ERR (OS: HR = 0.591, 95% CI, 0.495‐0.705, P < .001, PFS: HR = 0.586, 95% CI, 0.500‐0.686, P < .001) was independently prolonged survival compared with non‐ERR ones. Besides, ERR was significantly correlated with the BRR (Kappa: 0.73; Pearson: 0.74, P < .001), and had significantly longer OS and PFS than patients with subsequent response, respectively.

Conclusion

ERR is an independent prognostic factor in determining survival in mNPC patients received first‐line platinum‐containing chemotherapy, which may be a more sensitive predictor to assess overall efficacy of systemic treatment than BRR in mNPC. Prospective validation studies are needed.
Functional role of hedgehog pathway in osteoarthritis
Authors: Xiao Wen‐feng , Li Yu‐sheng , Deng Ang , Yang Yun‐tao , He Miao
Published: December 2019

The hedgehog signalling pathway is one of the key regulators of metazoan development, and it plays an important role in the regulation of a variety of developmental and physiological processes. But it is aberrantly activated in many human diseases, including osteoarthritis (OA). In this study, we have reviewed the association of hedgehog signalling pathway in the development and progression of OA and evaluated the efforts to target this pathway for the prevention of OA. Usually in OA, activation of hedgehog induces up‐regulation of the expression of hypertrophic markers, including type X collagen, increases production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2, several matrix‐degrading enzymes including matrix metalloproteinase and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase with thrombospondin motifs in human knee joint cartilage leading to cartilage degeneration, and thus contributes in OA. Targeting hedgehog signalling might be a viable strategy to prevent or treat OA. Chemical inhibitors of hedgehog signalling is promising, but they cause severe side effects. Knockdown of HH gene is not an option for OA treatment in humans because it is not possible to delete HH in larger animals. Efficient knockdown of HH achieved by local delivery of small interfering RNA in future studies utilizing large animal OA models might be a more efficient approach for the prevention of OA. However, it remains a major problem to develop one single scaffold due to the different physiological functions of cartilage and subchondral bones possess. More studies are necessary to identify selective inhibitors for efficiently targeting the hedgehog pathway in clinical conditions.
Covalent Small Molecules as Enabling Platforms for Drug Discovery
Authors: Dalton Samuel E. , Campos Sebastien
Published: December 2019

Covalent drugs have experienced significant renewed interest in drug discovery. This resurgence has been accompanied by a better understanding of the reactivity relationships required to engage selective covalent bonds between nucleophilic proteins and electrophilic small molecules. As a result, researchers have come to the realisation that covalent molecules could also represent useful and novel tools aimed at supporting medicinal chemistry programmes. This review surveys the increasing number of drug discovery platforms employing covalent chemistries, and highlights the utility of these techniques for identifying and characterising small molecules and biological targets.
Tibiopedal arterial minimally invasive retrograde revascularization (TAMI) in patients with peripheral arterial disease and critical limb ischemia. On behalf of the Peripheral Registry of Endovascular Clinical Outcomes (PRIME)
Authors: Mustapha Jihad A. , Saab Fadi , McGoff Theresa N. , Adams George , Mullins John R. , Al‐Dadah Ashraf , Jaff Michael R. , Goodney Philip P. , Khawaja Farhan , Diaz‐Sandoval Larry J.
Published: December 2019

Objectives and background

Complex peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and critical limb ischemia (CLI) are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Endovascular techniques have become prevalent in treatment of advanced PAD and CLI, and use of techniques such as tibiopedal minimally invasive revascularization (TAMI), have been proven safe in small, single‐center series. However, its use has not been systematically compared to traditional approaches.

Methods and results

This is a retrospective, multicenter analysis which enrolled 744 patients with advanced PAD and CLI who underwent 1,195 endovascular interventions between January 2013 and April 2018. Data was analyzed based on access used for revascularization: 840 performed via femoral access, 254 via dual access, and 101 via TAMI. The dual access group had the highest median Rutherford Class and lowest number of patent tibial vessels. Median fluoroscopy time, procedure time, hospital stay, and contrast volume were significantly lower in the TAMI access group when compared to both femoral/dual access groups. There was also a significant difference between all groups regarding location of target lesions: Femoropopliteal lesions were most commonly treated via femoral access; infrapopliteal lesions, via TAMI, and multilevel lesions via dual access.

Conclusions

Stand‐alone TAMI or tibial access as an integral part of a dual access treatment strategy, is safe and efficacious in the treatment of patients with advanced PAD and CLI who have infrapopliteal lesions. Larger prospective and randomized studies may be useful to further validate this approach.
Synthetic and Biological Studies on New Urea and Triazole Containing Cystobactamid Derivatives
Authors: Planke Therese , Cirnski Katarina , Herrmann Jennifer , Müller Rolf , Kirschning Andreas
Published: December 2019

Cystobactamids belong to the group of arene‐based oligoamides that effectively inhibit bacterial type IIa topoisomerases. Cystobactamid 861‐2 is the most active member of these antibiotics. Most amide bonds present in the cystobactamids link benzoic acids with anilines and it was found that some of these amide bonds undergo chemical and enzymatic hydrolysis, especially the one linking ring C with ring D. This work reports on the chemical synthesis and biological evaluation of thirteen new cystobactamids that still contain the methoxyaspartate hinge. However, we exchanged selected amide bonds either by the urea or the triazole groups and modified ring A in the latter case. While hydrolytic stability could be improved with these structural substitutes, the high antibacterial potency of cystobactamid 861‐2 could only be preserved in selected cases. This includes derivatives, in which the urea group is positioned between rings A and B and where the triazole is found between rings C and D.