bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient recommendation tool of materials by an executable file based on machine learning
Authors: Terayama Kei , Tsuda Koji , Tamura Ryo
Published: July 2019

To accelerate the discoveries of novel materials, an easy-to-use materials informatics tool is essential. We develop materials informatics applications, which can be executed on a Windows computer without any special settings. Our applications efficiently perform Bayesian optimization to optimize materials properties and uncertainty sampling to complete a new phase diagram. We introduce the usage of these applications and show the sampling results for a ternary phase diagram.
Models Designed to Increase the Work of Reversible Disc Plough
Authors: Hamed Faris Abdullah
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we study the models designed to increase the work of reversible disc plough. Results of research on the use of design-engineering methods of a heightening of serviceability are reduced and it is offered to use an improved disk of digging out device root of the tillage machines. Results of a study on the application of design and technological methods revealed that one of the promising areas of increased efficiency and durability are strengthening blades durable material of variable thickness.
Assessment of Health Risk Associated with Heavy Metal Contamination of Edible Vegetables in Cement Contaminated Area
Authors: Egbe Edmund Richard , Nsonwu-Anyanwu Augusta Chinyere , Offor Sunday Jeremiah , Usoro Chinyere Adanna Opara , Etukudo Maise Henrietta
Published: July 2019

Aim: Heavy metal (HM) content of some vegetables in the vicinity of a cement factory can be a useful index for assessment of HM contamination of the environment associated with cement production.

Study Design: This cross sectional study was conducted at the United Cement Company at Mfamosing, Akamkpa local government area, Cross River State, Nigeria between February to November 2016.

Methods: One hundred and forty edible vegetables of Telfairia occidentalis (fluted pumpkin), Vernonia amygdalina (bitter leaf), Amaranthus viriditis (green leaf), Talinum triangulare (water leaf), Lavantheca africanum, Heinsia crinata and Gnatum africana were collected at varying distances and directions from the cement factory site and an area remote to the site serving as control. The lead (Pb), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), iron (Fe), cadmium (Cd), selenium (Se), chromium (Cr), zinc (Zn) and arsenic (As) content of the vegetable samples were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance at P = .05.

Results: The Pb, Cu, Mn, Fe, Cd, Se and Zn content of vegetables in all the locations studied were within the safe limits except for Cr and As levels of some vegetables from location closest to the factory which were higher than the safe limits. The HM content of all vegetables from location closest to the factory were significantly higher than those from other locations (P <0.001). The hazard quotient (HQ) of all HM in all the vegetables were <1 except for Mn in T. occidentalis which was >1. The hazard index (ƩHQ) for all HM in all the vegetables were >1.

Conclusion: Cement production is associated with chromium and arsenic contamination of edible vegetables and increase in hazard index of HM levels in vegetables closest to the factory which may be implicated in increased risk for development of deleterious health consequences to consumers.
Effect of Temperature and Long Storage of Fatty Acid Profile, Value Peroxide and Value TBA Fillet of Snapper (Lutjanus sp)
Authors: Husain Rahim , Sulistijowati Rieny
Published: July 2019

This research was conducted at the Fisheries Technology Laboratorium Department of Fisheries and Marine Sciences, Gorontalo State University, at the Mey 2018 for three months in a month. Fish has a high nutritional value and is a major food source in many countries. Lipid fish has a high content of polyunsaturated acids (PUFA), especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA;20:5n-3) and docosahexenoate acid (DHA; 22: 6n-3). This study aims to the impact effect of temperature and storage time of the fatty acid snapper fillet (Lutjanus sp) and damage caused by the storage process. The sample selection stage is Snapper (Lutjanus sp) fresh weeds, and the meat is released by gills, bones, then washed and rinsed with ice water to remove blood and other debris. Contineus does the cleavage from head to tail without causing his back to be disturbed. Filleting is done by slicing the meat ribs longitudinally to produce boneless meat. Stored at temperatures of 0, 10, 20, 30 and 40°C for 45 days. The results of fatty acid analysis snapper fillet (Lutjanus sp) has a saturated fatty acid lauric acid, acid tridecanoic, myristate acid, pentadecanoic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, heneicosanoic acid, behenic acid, lignoceric acid, acid and acid heptadecanoate arachidic. Monounsaturated fatty acids oleic acid, nervonic acid, palmitoleic acid, acid and acid erucat eicosanoic, while polyunsaturated fatty acids eicosatetraenoate acid, dokosadinoat acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, eikosatrioanat acid, arachidonic acid and linolenic acid are susceptible to oxidative damage. Increased primary peroxide snapper fillet (Lutjanus sp) the higher the storage temperature increases from 0°C to 40°C. TBA value increases from 0° to 40°C with increased storage time of one day to 45 days storage time. From the results of this study found a way for Snapper fish fillets (Lutjanus sp) to have a longer expiration in storage, from 1 day to 45 days without reducing the Omega and DHA content.
Evaluate the Effect of Processing of Chhattisgarh Local Paddy Variety to Flaked Rice (POHA) on Proximate, Chemical and Functional Characteristics
Authors: Dahare Rahul , Sahu Bhupendra , Kumar Tankesh
Published: July 2019

The present study was undertaken to study the evaluate the effect of processing of Chhattisgarh local paddy variety to flaked rice (Poha) on proximate, functional and chemical characteristics. In the proximate analysis, change in crude fat content from paddy 3.20% to 0.96% for thick and 1.00% for thin flaked rice. The change in Crude fiber content from paddy to flaked rice was found to be 2.00% to 1.85% for thick and 1.79 for thin flaked rice. Similarly, change in crude protein content from paddy to flaked rice was found to be 4.23% to 4.04% for thick and 3.76 for thin flaked rice and change in ash content from paddy to flaked rice was found to be 1.00% to 1.35% for thick and 1.24% for thin flaked rice. Chemical properties, show that amylose content from paddy to flaked rice 19.27% to 18.19% for thick and 18.26% for thin flaked rice. Similarly, change in starch content from paddy to flaked rice 74.15% to 73.89% for thick and 73.47% for thin flaked rice. Functional properties, show that Water absorbing index (WAI) from paddy to flaked rice 2.19 g/g to 5.18 g/g for thick and 5.05 g/g for thin flaked rice. Similarly, water solubility index (WSI)  from paddy to flaked rice 3.25% to 4.86 for thick and 5.09% for thin flaked rice.
Prevalence of Enterobacteriaceae Isolated from Childhood Diarrhoea in Mukuru Slums, Nairobi- Kenya
Authors: Samuel Soi K. , Moses Ngeiywa M. , Emily Too J.
Published: July 2019

Diarrhoea in young children continues to be a major public health concern in developing countries, including Kenya. Poor sanitation among other factors can predispose a child to diarrhoea. Therefore, the present study sought to determine the prevalence of enterobacteriaceae isolated from childhood diarrhoea in Mukuru Slums, Nairobi. It employed a cross-sectional design targeting children below 5 years of age. Stool specimens were obtained aseptically and cultured on MacConkey agar and Salmonella-Shigella agar. Biochemical tests were used to identify the isolated bacteria to genus and species using biochemical characterization scheme and the Analytic Profile Index 20E. Drugs sensitivity Antimicrobial susceptibility tests (AST) were done using standard techniques. Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 was included as a control strain. Analysis of gender verses diarrhoea revealed that there was no statistical significant association between the gender (male and female) and area of residence in relation to diarrhoea in this study (p = 0.146 > 0.05). There was no statistical significant difference between the participant’s characteristics and their area of residence (p= 0.144). Age of the participants had significant association with the prevalence of diarrhoea (p=0.00). The E. coli bacteria showed the highest percentage of enteric pathogens isolated (35.2%) from female children at Mukuru kwa Njenga and 29.4% from male children, Salmonella spp being second (4.9%) from female at Mukruru kwa Reuben and the least was Shigella sonnei (3.2%) from female children at Sinai. Emphasis should therefore be placed on primary preventive measures such as ensuring good sewage management and safe supply of drinking water in the study area and Kenya at large especially in the slums.
Analysis the Improvements of the Quality of Life in Ayurvedic Treatment for the Wrist Fracture
Authors: Rakulini R. , Attanayake A. M. H. Sampath
Published: July 2019

Aims: The aim of this study was to analyze the improvements of the quality of life (QOL) in Ayurvedic treatment for the wrist fracture.

Study Design: This is a Retrospective Cohort Study.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was carried out among the wrist fracture patients in Kadum bidum (orthopedic) Clinic who got treatment of wrist fracture at Bandaranayaks Memorial Ayurvedic Research Institute (BMARI).

Methodology: All wrist fracture patients attending the BMIRI clinic were selected for this research study, were interviewed and administrated Qualeffo-41 questionnaire to collect the data. Patients were divided into three groups (A - Patients who took ayurvedic treatment straightly, B - Patients who took ayurvedic treatment after getting western treatment and C - Patients who took ayurvedic treatment after getting alternative treatment). QOL were analyzed in the interventions. There are first visit, after the 6th week, after 3 months, and after the 6th month.

Results: In group A, they were getting quick improvement seen within 3months. QOL score changes from 16, 39, and 55. In group B, QOL score of patients who were getting treatment for 6th weeks QOL score changes from 18, 38.5. QOL of patients who were getting treatment for 6 months QOL change from 17, 26, 35, and 43. In group C, QOL of patients who were getting treatment for 3 month QOL changes from 21, 31.5, and 42.5. QOL score of patients who were getting treatment for 6 months QOL changes from 17, 24, 35 and 41.

Conclusion: The study patients were quickly improved by the Ayurvedic treatment indicating its efficacy in fracture management.
Highly Efficient Semitransparent Solar Cells with Selective Absorption and Tandem Architecture
Authors: Zuo Lijian , Shi Xueliang , Fu Weifei , Jen Alex K.‐Y.
Published: July 2019

Semitransparent (ST) photovoltaics (PVs) with selective absorption in the UV or/and near‐infrared (NIR) range(s) and reduced energy losses, are critical for high‐efficiency solar‐window applications. Here, a high‐performance tandem ST‐PV with selected absorption in the desirable regions of the solar spectrum is demonstrated. An ultralarge‐bandgap perovskite film (FAPbBr2.43Cl0.57, Eg ≈ 2.36 eV) is first developed to fulfil efficient selective absorption in the UV region. After optimization, the corresponding ST single junction (SJ) PV exhibits an averaged transmittance (AVT) of ≈68% and an efficiency of ≈7.5%. By sequentially reducing the visible absorbing component in a low‐bandgap organic bulk‐heterojunction layer, an ST‐PV with selective absorption in the NIR is achieved with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 5.9% and a high AVT of 62%. The energy loss associated with the SJ ST‐PVs is further reduced with a tandem architecture, which affords a high PCE of 10.7%, an AVT of 52.91%, and a light utilization efficiency up to 5.66%. These results represent the best balance of AVT and PCE among all ST‐PVs reported so far, and this design should pave the road for solar windows of high performance.
Hierarchical Coherent Phonons in a Superatomic Semiconductor
Authors: Lee Kihong , Maehrlein Sebastian F. , Zhong Xinjue , Meggiolaro Daniele , Russell Jake C. , Reed Douglas A. , Choi Bonnie , De Angelis Filippo , Roy Xavier , Zhu Xiaoyang
Published: July 2019

The coupling of phonons to electrons and other phonons plays a defining role in material properties, such as charge and energy transport, light emission, and superconductivity. In atomic solids, phonons are delocalized over the 3D lattice, in contrast to molecular solids where localized vibrations dominate. Here, a hierarchical semiconductor that expands the phonon space by combining localized 0D modes with delocalized 2D and 3D modes is described. This material consists of superatomic building blocks (Re6Se8) covalently linked into 2D sheets that are stacked into a layered van der Waals lattice. Using transient reflectance spectroscopy, three types of coherent phonons are identified: localized 0D breathing modes of isolated superatom, 2D synchronized twisting of superatoms in layers, and 3D acoustic interlayer deformation. These phonons are coupled to the electronic degrees of freedom to varying extents. The presence of local phonon modes in an extended crystal opens the door to controlling material properties from hierarchical phonon engineering.
A Nonencapsulative Pendulum‐Like Paper–Based Hybrid Nanogenerator for Energy Harvesting
Authors: Yang Hongmei , Deng Mingming , Tang Qian , He Wencong , Hu Chenguo , Xi Yi , Liu Ruchuan , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: July 2019

The newly invented triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is deemed to be a more efficient strategy than an electromagnetic generator (EMG) in harvesting low‐frequency (<2 Hz) water wave energy. Various TENGs with different structures and functions for blue energy have been developed, which can be roughly divided into two types: liquid–solid contact electrification TENGs and fully enclosed solid–solid contact electrification TENGs. Robustness and packaging are critical factors in the development of TENGs toward practical applications. Furthermore, for fully enclosed TENGs, the requirements and costs of packaging are very high, and they can difficult to disassemble after enclosed, if there is something wrong with the devices. Herein, a nonencapsulative pendulum‐like paper based hybrid nanogenerator for energy harvesting is designed, which mainly consists of three parts, one solar panel, two paper based zigzag multilayered TENGs, and three EMG units. This unique structure reveals the superior robustness and a maximum peak power of zigzag multilayered TENGs up to 22.5 mW is realized. Moreover, the device can be used to collect the mechanical energy of human motion in hand shaking. This work presents a new platform of hybrid generators toward energy harvesting as a portable practical power source, which has potential applications in navigation and lighting.
Sensing and photocatalytic properties of nanosized Cu(I)CN organotin supramolecular coordination polymer based on pyrazine
Authors: Etaiw Safaa El‐din H. , Marie Hassan , Shalaby Elsayed M. , Farag Rabie S. , Elsharqawy Fatma A.
Published: July 2019

Orange prismatic crystals of the supramolecular coordination polymer (SCP) ∞3[Cu(CN)2(Me3Sn)(Pyz)], SCP1, were synthesized using a self‐assembly method under ambient conditions. Nanosized 1 was obtained using the same molar ratio in water by ultrasonic irradiation. SCP1 was characterized using single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, elemental analysis, thermal analysis and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. SCP1 and its nanosized 1 particles were also examined using powder X‐ay diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The luminescence emission of SCP1 was studied as well as its use as a sensor for the detection of common organic solvents and metal ions. Also, the catalytic activities of nanosized 1 towards various organic dyes were investigated under ambient conditions, UV irradiation and ultrasonic irradiation. Nanosized 1 as a heterogeneous nanoparticle catalyst exhibits high catalytic activity for the degradation of eosin‐Y and acid blue dyes. The mechanism of degradation investigated using various scavenger techniques is proposed and discussed. The catalytic oxidation process is mainly caused by •OH radicals.
Methyl substituent effect on one‐dimensional copper(II) coordination polymers containing biologically active ligands: Synthesis, characterization, DNA interactions and cytotoxicities
Authors: Şenel Pelin , İnci Duygu , Aydın Rahmiye , Huriyet Huzeyfe , Zorlu Yunus , Çinkılıç Nilüfer
Published: July 2019

Three novel water‐soluble copper(II) complexes – {[Cu(phen)(trp)]ClO4·3H2O}n (1), {[Cu(4‐mphen)(trp)]ClO4·3H2O}n (2) and [[Cu(dmphen)(trp)(MeOH)][Cu(dmphen)(trp)(NO3)]]NO3 (3) (phen: 1,10‐phenanthroline; 4‐mphen: 4‐methyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline; dmphen: 4,7‐dimethyl‐1,10‐phenanthroline; trp: l‐tryptophan) – have been synthesized and characterized using various techniques. Complexes 1 and 2 are isostructural, and exist as one‐dimensional coordination polymers. Complex 3 consists of two discrete copper(II) complexes containing [Cu(trp)(dmphen)(MeOH)]+, [Cu(trp)(dmphen)(NO3)] and one nitrate anion. The binding interaction of the complexes with calf thymus DNA (CT‐DNA) was investigated using thermal denaturation, electronic absorption and emission spectroscopic methods, revealing that the complexes could interact with CT‐DNA via a moderate intercalation mode. The binding activity of the complexes to CT‐DNA follows the order: 3 > 2 > 1. The pUC19 DNA cleavage activity of the complexes was investigated in the absence and presence of external agents using the agarose gel electrophoresis method. Especially, in the presence of H2O2 as an activator, the pUC19 DNA cleavage abilities of the complexes are clearly enhanced at low concentration. Addition of hydroxyl radical scavenger dimethylsulfoxide shows a marked inhibition of the pUC19 DNA cleavage activity of the complexes. In vitro cytotoxic effect of the complexes was examined on human tumor cell lines (Caco‐2, A549 and MCF‐7) and healthy cells (BEAS‐2B). The potent cytotoxic effect of complex 3, with IC50 values of 1.04, 1.16 and 1.72 μM, respectively, is greater relative to clinically used cisplatin (IC50 = 22.70, 31.1 and 22.2 μM) against the Caco‐2, A549 and MCF‐7 cell lines.
Compatibilization of poly(lactic acid)/epoxidized natural rubber blend with maleic anhydride
Authors: Klinkajorn Jenjira , Tanrattanakul Varaporn
Published: July 2019

The objective of this work was to determine the compatibilization effect of different concentrations of maleic anhydride (MA) in poly(lactic acid) blended with epoxidized natural rubber (PLA/ENR). ENR‐grafted MA [ENR‐g‐MA] was synthesized using four concentrations of MA: 0.15, 0.30, 0.45, and 0.60 phr. Using an internal mixer, binary (PLA/ENR, PLA/ENR‐g‐MA) and ternary (PLA/ENR/ENR‐g‐MA) polymer blends were prepared with a constant rubber content of 10 wt %. ENR impaired the mechanical properties of PLA, perhaps due to the relatively large size of the rubber particles. The compatibilization effect of MA was evaluated from the results of impact strength testing. ENR‐g‐MA was a toughening agent for PLA when the concentration of MA was in the range of 0.30–0.60 phr. MA increased miscibility between PLA and ENR. This effect was indicated in the blends by reductions in rubber particle size, the glass transition temperature of PLA, and the α‐transition temperatures of PLA and ENR. In the binary polymer blends, the MA concentration in ENR‐g‐MA that produced the optimal mechanical properties of PLA was 0.60 phr. In the ternary blends, mechanical properties of PLA did not improve at any concentration of MA in ENR‐g‐MA. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48297.
Machine Learning to Predict Anti–Tumor Necrosis Factor Drug Responses of Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients by Integrating Clinical and Genetic Markers
Authors: Guan Yuanfang , Zhang Hongjiu , Quang Daniel , Wang Ziyan , Parker Stephen C. J. , Pappas Dimitrios A. , Kremer Joel M. , Zhu Fan
Published: July 2019

Objective

Accurate prediction of treatment responses in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients can provide valuable information on effective drug selection. Anti–tumor necrosis factor (anti‐TNF) drugs are an important second‐line treatment after methotrexate, the classic first‐line treatment for RA. However, patient heterogeneity hinders identification of predictive biomarkers and accurate modeling of anti‐TNF drug responses. This study was undertaken to investigate the usefulness of machine learning to assist in developing predictive models for treatment response.

Methods

Using data on patient demographics, baseline disease assessment, treatment, and single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array from the Dialogue on Reverse Engineering Assessment and Methods (DREAM): Rheumatoid Arthritis Responder Challenge, we created a Gaussian process regression model to predict changes in the Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28) for the patients and to classify them into either the responder or the nonresponder group. This model was developed and cross‐validated using data from 1,892 RA patients. It was evaluated using an independent data set from 680 patients. We examined the effectiveness of the similarity modeling and the contribution of individual features.

Results

In the cross‐validation tests, our method predicted changes in DAS28 (ΔDAS28), with a correlation coefficient of 0.405. It correctly classified responses from 78% of patients. In the independent test, this method achieved a Pearson's correlation coefficient of 0.393 in predicting ΔDAS28. Gaussian process regression effectively remapped the feature space and identified subpopulations that do not respond well to anti‐TNF treatments. Genetic SNP biomarkers showed small contributions in the prediction when added to the clinical models. This was the best‐performing model in the DREAM Challenge.

Conclusion

The model described here shows promise in guiding treatment decisions in clinical practice, based primarily on clinical profiles with additional genetic information.
High‐Throughput Production of Zr‐Doped Li4Ti5O12 Modified by Mesoporous Libaf3 Nanoparticles for Superior Lithium and Potassium Storage
Authors: Wang Bo , Gu Lin , Zhang Di , Wang Wei (Alex)
Published: July 2019

Li4Ti5O12 is a promising anode for lithium‐ion batteries due to its zero‐strain properties. However, its low conductivity has greatly affected its rate performance. At the same time, the electrolyte decomposition during cycling also needs to be solved, especially at low cut‐off voltage. Herein, using a high‐throughput two‐step method, we synthesized Zr‐doped LTO modified by mesoporous LiBaF3 nanoparticles for alkali‐ion storage. The doping of Zr can enhance the electronic conductivity and facilitate the rate performance. Meanwhile, the coating of mesoporous LiBaF3 nanoparticles can form a mesoporous surface with large pore size (ca. 3–10 nm), which can benefit the alkali ion diffusion and simultaneously restrain the formation of an excess solid electrolyte interface to a reasonable range. The optimized material is used as an advanced anode for both lithium‐ion and potassium‐ion batteries, and good battery behavior including high‐rate performance and high stability is achieved.
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis following varicella‐zoster virus infection: Case report of effective treated both in clinical symptom and neuroimaging
Authors: Wang Qi , Cai Li‐Na , Wang Xiang‐Qing
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is an idiopathic inflammatory demyelinating disorder of the central nervous system (CNS). Early treatment is the key for neurological recovery.

Methods

A case of ADEM associated with varicella‐zoster virus infection was presented, in which magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examinations were included.

Results

Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed multiple hyperintense lesions at the subcortical level on fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), and MRI of the spinal cord revealed longitudinally segmented hyperintense lesions at the spinal cord on T2‐weighted images. The patient was treated with methylprednisolone and gancyclovir, and had a favorable recovery. Subsequent MRI of the brain and cervical cord showed the previous abnormal hyperintensities had markedly disappeared.

Conclusion

A rare case of ADEM with longitudinal segmented hyperintense lesions at the spinal cord on T2‐weighted images was presented. Excellent response to ADEM treatment with high‐dose steroids was reported resulting in a remarkable neurological recovery. A long‐term follow‐up is needed for prognosis.
β‐Mannanase production and kinetic modeling from carob extract by using recombinant Aspergillus sojae
Authors: Karahalil Ercan , Germeç Mustafa , Turhan Irfan
Published: July 2019

The main objectives of this study were to optimize β‐mannanase fermentation conditions by using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and to model kinetically using the kinetic models. Based on the results, the optimum fermentation conditions were found to be initial sugar concentration of 10°Bx, whey concentration of 0.75% [w/v], and inoculum size of 8% (v/v). Under optimized conditions, β‐mannanase activity (P), sugar consumed (ΔS), maximum β‐mannanase production rate (QP), and sugar utilization yield (SUY) were 687.89 U/mL, 47.38 g/L, 118.54 U mL–1 day–1, and 69.73%, respectively. Kinetic models were employed to describe the optimum β‐mannanase fermentation process. The kinetic analysis of β‐mannanase fermentation showed that β‐mannanase fermentation is growth associated because the α value (U/mgX) is approximately 330‐fold higher than the β value (U/mgX·hr). Nevertheless, maintenance value (Z) was lower than γ value, thus showing that Aspergillus niger mainly utilizes the sugars for β‐mannanase production and fungal growth. Consequently, carob extract and whey powder could be used to be cost‐effective carbon and organic nitrogen sources, respectively. It was clearly indicated that the suggested kinetic models can successfully describe the fungal growth, β‐mannanase production, and substrate consumption.
Prognostic nomogram based on immune scores for breast cancer patients
Authors: Wang Ju , Li Yanling , Fu Wenying , Zhang Ye , Jiang Jun , Zhang Yi , Qi Xiaowei
Published: July 2019

Background

Increased attention has been focused on cancer immunity gene signature. However, the threshold of immune scores to predict disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) in breast cancer has not yet been defined. This study aimed to explore the association of immune scores with prognosis and build a clinical nomogram to predict the survival of patients with breast cancer.

Methods

A total of 986 subjects were analyzed, and clinicopathological characteristics and immune scores were obtained from the TCGA database. Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the adjusted hazard ratios (HRs). Based on results of multivariate analysis, nomograms were built. The models were subjected to bootstrap internal validation. The predictive accuracy and discriminative ability were measured by concordance index (C‐index) and the calibration curve.

Results

The patients were divided into three subgroups according to their immune scores. We found that compared with patients with low immune scores, those with intermediate and high immune scores had significantly improved DFS (HR and 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.439 [0.242‐0.799], 0.541 [0.343‐0.855], respectively), whereas only intermediate immune scores significantly indicated better OS (HR and 95% CI: 0.385 [0.163‐0.910]). The C‐index for DFS and OS prediction was 0.723 (95% CI, 0.661‐0.785) and 0.800 (95% CI, 0.724‐0.877), respectively. The calibration curves for probability of 3‐ and 5‐year DFS showed significant agreement between nomogram predictions and the actual observations.

Conclusions

High and/or intermediate immune scores are significantly correlated with better DFS and OS in patients with breast cancer. Moreover, the nomograms for predicting prognosis may help to estimate the survival of patients.
Thiamine Diphosphate Dependent KdcA‐Catalysed Formyl Elongation of Aldehydes
Authors: Germer Philipp , Gauchenova Ekaterina , Walter Lydia , Müller Michael
Published: July 2019

The formose reaction, one of the oldest name reactions in organic chemistry, uses formaldehyde as a C1 unit resulting in different monosaccharides and sugar‐like compounds. Nucleophilic formyl elongation is an attractive option to obtain 1,2‐functionalised building blocks for organic synthesis and pharmaceuticals; however, it has rarely been applied in asymmetric catalysis. The thiamine diphosphate dependent enzyme 2‐keto acid decarboxylase (KdcA) from Lactococcus lactis is able to transfer formyl units to aliphatic and aromatic aldehydes, both in an electrophilic and in a nucleophilic way. We have established the formation of unstable chiral 2‐hydroxy aldehydes by subsequent modifications (chemical derivatisation with 2,4‐dinitrophenylhydrazine, (R)‐Mosher's acid chloride) or by enzymatic trapping (oxidation and reductive amination).
Decision Support System for Municipal Energy Utilities: Approach, Architecture, and Implementation
Authors: Kühne Stefan , Scheller Fabian , Kondziella Hendrik , Reichelt David Georg , Bruckner Thomas
Published: July 2019

To support decision makers of municipal energy utilities regarding future portfolio management, the mathematical optimization model IRPopt was developed which allows a policy‐oriented, technology‐based, and actor‐related assessment of varying energy system conditions and innovative business models. The IRPopt software environment is described and demonstrated in that the model is embedded in. To fulfill usability, flexibility, and scalability related requirements in practical usage scenarios, it hides the dry formalism of the optimization model and reduces configuration efforts by providing mechanisms to reuse configuration knowledge. Furthermore, required model expansions can be realized independently from the software engineering process due to a model‐driven deployment approach.
Few‐Layer Mxene Ti3C2Tx (T=F, O, Or OH) for Robust Pulse Generation in a Compact Er‐Doped Fiber Laser
Authors: Wang Lu , Li Xiaohui , Wang Chong , Luo Wenfeng , Feng Tianci , Zhang Ying , Zhang Han
Published: July 2019

MXenes, recently developed two‐dimensional (2D) materials, comprise 2D transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides and have variable properties. In particular, accordion‐like structures of MXene have highly tunable and tailorable optoelectronic properties, which indicates that they can be applied in broadband optical devices. However, due to the complex synthesis process, the saturable absorber (SA) properties of MXene have not been fully explored and widely applied until now. In this article, the characterization of few‐layer MXene nanosheets has been systematically performed. Furthermore, the MXene dispersion is utilized as a SA without any polymer and applied in a compact integrated Er‐doped fiber laser at 1.5 μm to generate a robust, high average power pulse. The proposed robust pulsed laser has minimum pulse width of 1.37 μs under average output power of 40 mW and the corresponding pulse energy is 305 nJ, which is higher than previous experimental results. Considering the merits of MXene Ti3C2Tx, in the generation of large energy pulses, our work could be a novel method to optimize photonic devices.
Parametric survival analysis using R: Illustration with lung cancer data
Authors: Kumar Mukesh , Sonker Prashant Kr. , Saroj Agni , Jain Aanchal , Bhattacharjee Atanu , Saroj Rakesh Kr.
Published: July 2019

Background

Cox regression is the most widely used survival model in oncology. Parametric survival models are an alternative of Cox regression model. In this study, we have illustrated the application of semiparametric model and various parametric (Weibull, exponential, log‐normal, and log‐logistic) models in lung cancer data by using R software.

Aims

The aim of the study is to illustrate responsible factors in lung cancer and compared with Cox regression and parametric models.

Methods

A total of 66 lung cancer patients of African Americans (AAs) (data available online at http://clincancerres.aacrjournals.org) was used. To identify predictors of overall survival, stage of patient, sex, age, smoking, and tumor grade were taken into account. Both parametric and semiparametric models were fitted. Performance of parametric models was compared by Akaike information criterion (AIC). “Survival” package in R software was used to perform the analysis. Posterior density was obtained for different parameters through Bayesian approach using WinBUGS.

Results

The illustration about model fitting problem was documented. Parametric models were fitted only for stage after controlling for age. AIC value was minimum (462.4087) for log‐logistic model as compared with other parametric models. Log‐logistic model was the best fit for AAs lung cancer data under study.

Conclusion

Exploring parametric survival models in daily practice of cancer research is challenging. It may be due to many reasons including popularity of Cox regression and lack of knowledge about how to perform it. This paper provides the application of parametric survival models by using freely available R software with illustration. It is expected that this present work can be useful to apply parametric survival models.
Design, implementation, and test of an SDR for NVIS communications
Authors: Porte Joaquim , Maso Josep , Pijoan Joan Lluis , Badia David
Published: July 2019

Although many physical layer solutions have appeared for remote sensors and Internet of things during the recent years, none of them is suited to very remote sensors in areas away from any mobile operator coverage. In that case, a solution on the basis of near vertical incidence skywave (NVIS) with reflection in the ionosphere may be very attractive. Using NVIS, no line of sight is needed and the coverage is much bigger than any other system operating in either the very high frequency (VHF) or ultra high frequency (UHF) band. In this paper, we present a new transmission scheme for very remote sensors using the NVIS transmission technique.
Experiences of computer‐based and conventional self‐help interventions for eating disorders: A systematic review and meta‐synthesis of qualitative research
Authors: Yim See Heng , Schmidt Ulrike
Published: July 2019

Objective

Self‐help interventions have been demonstrated to be effective in treating bulimic‐type eating disorders (EDs). In particular, computer‐based interventions have received increasing attention due to their potential to reach a wider population. This systematic review aimed to synthesize findings from qualitative studies on users' experiences of self‐help interventions for EDs and to develop an exploratory framework.

Method

A systematic review and meta‐synthesis on seven peer‐reviewed qualitative studies on structured computer and book‐based self‐help interventions for EDs was conducted using Noblit and Hare's (1988) 7‐phase meta‐ethnography. Four of the selected studies investigated computer‐based self‐help programs, and three of the studies investigated book‐based guided self‐help programs.

Results

Six concepts were synthesized. They included intervention‐related factors (anonymity and privacy; accessibility and flexibility; guidance) and user‐related factors (agency/autonomy; self‐motivation; and expectations/attitudes). The study revealed the “machine‐like” and relational properties of the computer; the expansion of treatment time and space in psychological interventions, the changing role of the medical health professional from a “therapist” to a “guide,” and a change from understanding interventions as a conclusive treatment plan to a starting point or stepping stone toward recovery.

Discussion

Computer‐based self‐help interventions should take advantage of the “machine‐like” properties of a computer (neutrality, availability, etc.) as well as its ability to facilitate human interactions. Users should also be facilitated to have a realistic understanding of the purpose of self‐help interventions and the place of self‐help interventions in their broader treatment plans to moderate expectations and attitudes.
Rapid Determination of Phenolic Compounds in Water Samples: Development of a Paper‐based Nanobiosensor Modified with Functionalized Silica Nanoparticles and Potato Tissue
Authors: Rahimi‐Mohseni Mohadeseh , Raoof Jahan Bakhsh , Aghajanzadeh Tahereh A. , Ojani Reza
Published: July 2019

In this study, we present a fast, simple, low‐cost and disposable method for determination of phenolic content in water samples, using a paper based polyphenol oxidase biosensor. The propylamine functionalized silica nanoparticles was dropped onto a paper sheet. After drying at room temperature, the potato tissue extract including polyphenol oxidase was immobilized on the paper via physical and chemical adsorption. The modified paper was placed on the top of the graphite screen printed electrode. To construct of an electrochemical nanobiosensor, the electrochemical behavior of the modified electrode in different steps was investigated by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy methods. After being optimized the effective parameters, the changes in the biosensor electrochemical response vs. to the different concentrations of the substrate (phenol solution) were monitored by differential pulse voltammetry and amperometry methods. The linear relationships for phenol detection were obtained in the concentration ranges of 0.01–160 μM and 0.1–300 μM with a detection limit of 0.007 μM and 0.042 μM with DPV and amperometry methods, respectively. This method was successfully used in the voltammetric determination of the phenol content in the real samples, like the river water and the wastewater of wood factory.
Synbiotic yoghurt with walnut and cereal brittle added as a next‐generation bioactive compound: Development and characteristics
Authors: Gorlov Ivan Fiodorovich , Shishova Valeria Viktorovna , Slozhenkina Marina Ivanovna , Serova Olga Petrovna , Mosolova Natalia Ivanovna , Zlobina Elena Yurievna , Barmina Tatiana Nikolaevna
Published: July 2019

The article presents a technology developed for the production of synbiotic Yoghurt with new bioactive filler based on natural components. The Yoghurt has prebiotic and sorption properties. A higher consumer appeal of the product developed has been substantiated; its characteristics compared with the Yoghurt of traditional production technology have been presented. The brittle, containing peeled walnuts, as well as barley, wheat, rye, oatmeal and buckwheat flakes, sugar, and water, was used as a filler. Optimum time and temperature regimes of boiling caramel mixtures and brewing raw walnut–cereal mass in the brittle have been selected. The formulation developed enables increasing the nutritional and biological values of the finished product. The research studies of the finished product involved an analysis of organoleptic, physicochemical, and microbiological points. When performing the tasks, the approved regulatory and technical documentation (GOST) was applied. Each measurement was carried out in triplicate. The physicochemical characteristics of the samples developed were compared with the requirements for the quality of fermented milk products. The nutritional and biological values were calculated. The increase in consumer properties, and nutritional and biological values of the finished dairy product was scientifically substantiated and experimentally confirmed.
Hypotonic stress enhances colon cancer cell death induced by platinum derivatives and immunologically improves antitumor efficacy of intraperitoneal chemotherapy
Authors: Demontoux Lucie , Derangère Valentin , Pilot Thomas , Thinselin Chloé , Chevriaux Angélique , Chalmin Fanny , Bouyer Florence , Ghiringhelli François , Rébé Cédric
Published: July 2019

Colorectal cancer is a highly metastatic disease that could invade various distal organs and also the peritoneal cavity leading to peritoneal carcinomatosis. This is a terminal condition with poor prognosis and only palliative treatments such as cytoreductive surgery and intraperitoneal chemotherapy are proposed to some patients. However, clinicians use different parameters of treatments without any consensus. Here we decided to evaluate the effect of osmolarity in the efficacy of this procedure to kill colon cancer cells. We first show that a short exposure of platinum derivatives in hypotonic conditions is more efficient to decrease cell viability of human and murine colon cancer cells in vitro as compared to isotonic conditions. This is related to more important incorporation of platinum and the capacity of hypotonic stress to induce the copper transporter CTR1 oligomerization. Oxaliplatin in hypotonic conditions induces caspase‐dependent cell death of colon cancer cells. Moreover, hypotonic conditions also modulate the capacity of oxaliplatin and cisplatin (but not carboplatin) to induce immunogenic cell death (ICD). In vivo, oxaliplatin in hypotonic conditions increases CD8+ T cell tumor infiltration and activation. Finally, in a murine peritoneal carcinomatosis model, oxaliplatin in hypotonic conditions is the only tested protocol which is able to slow down the appearance of tumor nodules and increase mice survival, while showing no effect in CD8+ T cells depleted mice or in immunodeficient mice. Altogether, our study provides new information both in vitro and in a preclinical model of peritoneal carcinomatosis, which highlights the importance of hypoosmolarity in intraperitoneal chemotherapy.
Quantitative evaluation of the intratumoral distribution of platinum in oxaliplatin‐treated rectal cancer: In situ visualization of platinum via synchrotron radiation X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry
Authors: Koba Ryo , Fujita Hayato , Nishibori Maiko , Saeki Kiyoshi , Nagayoshi Kinuko , Sadakari Yoshihiko , Nagai Shuntaro , Sekizawa Oki , Nitta Kiyofumi , Manabe Tatsuya , Ueki Takashi , Ishida Tatsuhiro , Oda Yoshinao , Nakamura Masafumi
Published: July 2019

Oxaliplatin (l‐OHP), a platinum‐based drug, is a key chemotherapeutic agent for colorectal cancer (CRC), but drug resistance and toxic effects have been major limitations of its use. Synchrotron radiation X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry (SR‐XRF) is a rapid, nondestructive technique for monitoring the distribution of metals and trace elements in cells or tissue samples. We applied SR‐XRF to visualize the distribution of platinum and other elements in 30 rectal cancer specimens resected from patients who received l‐OHP‐based preoperative chemotherapy and quantified platinum concentration in the tumor epithelium and stroma, respectively, using calibration curves. The platinum concentration in rectal cancer tissue ranged 2.85–11.44 ppm, and the detection limit of platinum was 1.848 ppm. In the tumor epithelium, the platinum concentration was significantly higher in areas of degeneration caused by chemotherapy than in nondegenerated area (p < 0.001). Conversely, in the tumor stroma, the platinum concentration was significantly higher in patients with limited therapeutic responses than in those with strong therapeutic responses (p < 0.001). Furthermore, multivariate analysis illustrated that higher platinum concentration in the tumor stroma was an independent predictive factor of limited histologic response (odds ratio; 19.99, 95% confidence interval; 2.04–196.37, p = 0.013). This is the first study to visualize and quantify the distribution of platinum in human cancer tissues using SR‐XRF. These results suggest that SR‐XRF analysis may contribute to predicting the therapeutic effect of l‐OHP‐based chemotherapy by quantifying the distribution of platinum.
Adrenal tumor characterization on magnetic resonance images
Authors: Barstugan Mucahid , Ceylan Rahime , Asoglu Semih , Cebeci Hakan , Koplay Mustafa
Published: July 2019

Adrenal tumors occur on adrenal glands and are generally detected on abdominal area scans. Adrenal tumors, which are incidentally detected, release vital hormones. These types of tumors that can be malignant affect body metabolism. Both of benign and malign adrenal tumors can have a similar size, intensity, and shape, this situation may lead to wrong decision during diagnosis and characterization of tumors. Thus, biopsy is done to confirm diagnosis of tumor types. In this study, adrenal tumor characterization is handled by using magnetic resonance images. In this way, it is wanted that patient can be disentangled from one or more imaging modalities (some of them can includes X‐ray) and biopsy. An adrenal tumor image set, which includes five types of adrenal tumors and has 112 benign tumors and 10 malign tumors, was used in this study. Two data sets were created from the adrenal tumor image set by manually/semiautomatically segmented adrenal tumors and feature sets of these data sets are constituted by different methods. Two‐dimensional gray‐level co‐occurrence matrix (2D‐GLCM), gray‐level run‐length matrix (GLRLM), and two‐dimensional discrete wavelet transform (2D‐DWT) methods were analyzed to reveal the most effective features on adrenal tumor characterization. Feature sets were classified in two ways: benign/malign (binary classification) and type characterization (multiclass classification). Support vector machine and artificial neural network classified feature sets. The best performance on benign/malign classification was obtained by the 2D‐GLCM feature set. The best results were assessed with sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, precision, and F‐score metrics and they were 99.17%, 90%, 98.4%, 99.17%, and 99.13%, respectively. The highest classification performance on type characterization was obtained by the 2D‐DWT feature set as 59.62%, 96.17%, 93.19%, 54.69%, and 54.94% for sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, precision, and F‐score metrics, respectively.
Evaluating Near‐Field Communication tag security for identity theft prevention
Authors: Saeed Dawer , Iqbal Razi , Sherazi Hafiz Husnain Raza , Khan Usman Ghani
Published: July 2019

Near‐Field Communication (NFC) applications are growing at a rapid pace due to their user‐friendly nature and cost effectiveness. The growth of NFC applications has caught the attention of attackers who can target NFC entities (eg, tags and readers) to gain access to any stored information. NFC is a nascent technology that offers ease of use and secure communication. However, this technology can act as a doorway for major hacks, such as skimming and other identity theft problems. This article presents a technique that can still read the erased data from an NFC tag even if the tag has been erased employing conventional techniques. Furthermore, a set of recommendations is provided for the proper erasure of NFC tags to avoid leaving any traces of the erased data.