bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Noncovalent Binding Strategy to Capture Noble Gases, Hydrogen and Nitrogen
Authors: Suresh Cherumuttathu H. , Mohan Neetha , Della Therese Davis
Published: January 2018

A molecular design strategy to develop receptor systems for the entrapment of noble gases, H2and N2is described using M06L‐D3/6‐311++G(d,p)//M06L/6‐311++G(d,p) DFT method. These receptors made with two‐, three‐, four‐ and five‐fluorinated benzene cores, linked with methelene unitsviz. RI, RII, RIIIand RIVas well as the corresponding non‐fluorinated hydrocarbonsviz. RIH, RIIH, RIIIHand RIVHshow a steady and significant increase in binding energy (Eint) with increase in the number of aromatic rings in the receptor. A stabilizing “cage effect” is observed in the cyclophane type receptors RIVand RIVHwhich is 26–48% of totalEintfor all except the larger sized Kr, Xe and N2complexes.Eintof RIV…He, RIV…Ne, RIV…Ar, RIV…Kr, RIV…H2and RIV…N2is 4.89, 7.03, 6.49, 6.19, 8.57 and 8.17 kcal/mol, respectively which is 5‐ to9‐fold higher than that of hexafluorobenzene. Similarly, compared to benzene, multiple fold increase inEintis observed for RIVHreceptors with noble gases, H2and N2. Fluorination of the aromatic core has no significant impact onEint(∼ ±0.5 kcal/mol) for most of the systems with a notable exception of the cage receptor RIVfor N2where fluorination improvesEintby 1.61 kcal/mol. TheEintof the cage receptors may be projected as one of the highest interaction energy ranges reported for noble gases, H2and N2for a neutral carbon framework. Synthesis of such systems is promising in the study of molecules in confined environment. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular characterization of diarrheagenic Escherichia coli pathotypes: Association of virulent genes, serogroups, and antibiotic resistance among moderate‐to‐severe diarrhea patients
Authors: Thakur Nutan , Jain Swapnil , Changotra Harish , Shrivastava Rahul , Kumar Yashwant , Grover Neelam , Vashistt Jitendraa
Published: January 2018

Background

Diarrheagenic Escherichia coli (DEC) signifies as an important etiological agent of moderate‐to‐severe diarrhea. This study was primarily focused on molecular identification of DEC pathotypes; their association with serogroups and estimates of resistance profiles against different antibiotics regime.

Methods

Five hundred seventy‐two stool specimens from diarrhea patients were investigated for DEC pathotypes. Molecular pathotypes were identified by amplification of virulence genes associated with distinct pathotypes followed by sequencing. Diarrhea is a self‐limiting disease, however, severity and persistence of infection suggest antibiotic use. Therefore, AST and MIC were determined against common antibiotic regimen. Correlations between molecular pathotypes and serogroups were analyzed by somatic “O” antigen serotyping.

Results

The present findings reveal incidence of DEC as an etiological agent up to a level of 21% among all diarrheal age groups. DEC infection rate was higher in children. Enteropathogenic E. coliEPEC, a molecular pathotype of DEC, was found as a predominant pathotype with highest frequency of 13.7%. Two other molecular pathotypes enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) and enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) accounted for 5.7% and 1.3%, respectively for all diarrhea incidences. Serological analysis deciphered somatic antigens O26, O2, and O3 as major serogroups identified among EPEC, ETEC, and EAEC pathotypes, respectively. All DEC pathotypes exhibited high levels of antibiotic resistance except for cotrimoxazole and norfloxacin.

Conclusion

Comprehensive molecular characterization of DEC pathotypes, their incidence estimates, and antibiogram patterns will help in ascertaining better diagnostic and therapeutic measures in management of diarrheal diseases.
The mediating role of coping strategy in the association between family functioning and nonsuicidal self‐injury among Taiwanese adolescents
Authors: Ren Yaxuan , Lin Min‐Pei , Liu Yin‐Han , Zhang Xu , Wu Jo Yung‐Wei , Hu Wei‐Hsuan , Xu Sian , You Jianing
Published: January 2018

Objective

Nock's (2009) integrated theoretical model suggests that both intrapersonal and interpersonal factors contribute to the development of nonsuicidal self‐injury (NSSI). Based on this model, the present study examined the roles of family functioning and coping strategy in predicting NSSI, as well as the mediating effect of coping strategy in the relationship between family functioning and NSSI. Gender differences on the associations of these variables were also examined.

Method

A sample of 1,989 secondary school students (52.0% females) in Taiwan was assessed by self‐report measures of perceived family functioning, coping strategy, and NSSI.

Results

Results showed that both family functioning and avoidance/emotion‐focused coping strategy predicted NSSI. Additionally, the association between family functioning and NSSI was mediated by avoidance/emotion‐focused coping strategy. Gender differences were not found on the associations among these study variables.

Conclusions

These data provided evidences that the Nock's (2009) integrated theoretical model may help to explain how coping strategy mediates the effect of family functioning on NSSI. The implications of the findings for future research and intervention were discussed.
Did They Earn It? Observing Unearned Luxury Consumption Decreases Brand Attitude When Observers Value Fairness
Authors: Lee Saerom , Baumgartner Hans , Winterich Karen Page
Published: January 2018

People frequently observe others’ consumption, making inferences about both the consumer and the consumed brands. Although these observations are often beneficial for brands, this research demonstrates that observing luxury brand consumers whose consumption arose from unearned (vs. earned) financial resources reduces observers’ brand attitudes when observers place a high value on fairness. When fairness values are high, observers do not perceive luxury brand consumers who use unearned (vs. earned) consumption resources as prestigious, and in turn, lower prestige perceptions adversely affect observers’ brand evaluations for luxury brands. Consistent with our theorizing regarding the signaling of prestige, the joint effect of consumers’ consumption resources and observers’ fairness values on observers’ brand attitudes does not hold for nonluxury brands, which are not associated with prestige and thereby are not denigrated when the consumer is not perceived as prestigious. This research sheds light on the role of moral values in marketplace judgments of luxury consumption and brand attitude by considering the influence of consumption resources on observers’ judgments.
The vector‐matrix form numerical simulations for time‐derivative cellular neural networks
Authors: Tural Polat Sadiye Nergis
Published: January 2018

Time‐derivative cellular neural network (TDCNN) state equations can be written in vector‐matrix form which enables the application of discrete‐time numerical simulation methods. In this paper, existing numerical simulation methods are adapted for TDCNN for the first time, namely, MATLAB ordinary differential equation simulation and the vector‐matrix fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta approximation. Afterwards, several simulation methods for TDCNN are analyzed. The ordinary differential equation solvers in MATLAB program, fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta approximation, and the forward Euler approximation are used in the numerical simulation of the vector‐matrix form TDCNN. Our previously proposed fast simulation method for TDCNNs is revisited. The methods are discussed from a programmer's point of view, and the results are presented.
Comparison of open and closed abdomen techniques for the delivery of intraperitoneal pemetrexed using a murine model
Authors: Badrudin David , Sideris Lucas , Perrault‐Mercier Camille , Hubert Julien , Leblond François A. , Dubé Pierre
Published: January 2018

Background and Objectives

Pemetrexed is an appealing agent to use for cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). However, the optimal method of pemetrexed delivery still remains undefined. Using a murine model, we compared the use of open and closed abdomen techniques on the absorption of intraperitoneal (IP) pemetrexed in different compartments.

Methods

Eleven Sprague‐Dawley rats were submitted to a fixed dose of IP pemetrexed (1000 mg/m2) at a perfusion temperature of 40°C during 25 min according to two techniques: open and closed. At the end of perfusion, samples in different compartments were harvested and the concentrations of pemetrexed were measured by high performance liquid chromatography.

Results

Absorption of IP pemetrexed in portal and systemic blood was significantly higher using the open compared to the closed abdomen technique (93.17 vs 52.50 µg/mL, P < 0.001) and (76.26 vs 51.65 µg/mL, P < 0.001), respectively. No difference was found between the two techniques on the peritoneal tissue concentration of pemetrexed (18.07 vs 19.17 µg/g, P = 0.51).

Conclusion

Peritoneal absorption of pemetrexed is not modified by the use of either technique. However, systemic concentrations of pemetrexed increased using the open technique, suggesting it could increase systemic toxicity.
Preoperative coagulation abnormalities as a risk factor for adverse events after pancreas surgery
Authors: Castle Joshua , Mazmudar Aditya , Bentrem David
Published: January 2018

Objective

To determine whether elevated INR or PTT values predicted 30‐day postoperative adverse events following elective pancreatectomy.

Methods

The American college of surgeons national surgical quality improvement program (ACS‐NSQIP) database was used to identify 14 747 patients undergoing elective pancreatectomy from 2005 to 2013. The association of elevated INR or PTT with 30‐day postoperative outcomes of morbidity and mortality was examined using multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

The overall 30‐day mortality rate increased from 1.8% to 3.3% from the control to the high INR or PTT group (P = <0.001). An elevated INR/PTT increased the odds for bleeding requiring transfusion, superficial SSI, sepsis, unplanned intubation or >48 h on a ventilator, cardiac arrest or myocardial infarction, acute renal failure, return to the OR, and prolonged length of stay. With the exception of superficial SSI, multivariate logistic regression models revealed that these same events remained statistically significant after controlling for potential confounders.

Conclusion

Prolonged bleeding times (high INR/PTT) is associated with increased mortality and adverse outcomes after pancreas surgery. A patient's coagulation profile may serve as a risk stratification tool to identify higher risk patients that require more resources.
Predictors for 30‐day readmission after pulmonary resection for lung cancer
Authors: Quero‐Valenzuela Florencio , Piedra‐Fernández Inmaculada , Martínez‐Ceres María , Romero‐Palacios Pedro J. , Sánchez‐Palencia Abel , De Guevara Antonio Cueto‐Ladrón , Torné‐Poyatos Pablo
Published: January 2018

Background: The purpose of this study was to assess the rate, cause, and factors associated with readmissions following pulmonary resection for lung cancer and their relationship with 90‐day mortality.

Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted of 379 patients who underwent surgery for lung cancer at the university hospitals Granada, Spain between 2012 and 2016.

Results: The rate of readmissions within 30 postoperative days was 6.2%. The most common reason for readmission was subcutaneous emphysema (21.7%), pneumonia (13%), and pleural empyema (8.5%). A higher probability of requiring urgent readmission was associated with a higher Charlson index (OR 2.0,95% confidence interval 1.50‐2.67, P = 0.001); peripheral arterial vasculopathy (OR 4.8, 95%CI 1.27‐18.85, P = 0.021); a history of stroke (OR 8.2, 95%CI 1.08‐62.37, P = 0.04); postoperative atelectasis (OR 4.7, 95%CI 1.21‐18.64, P = 0.026); and air leaks (OR 12.6, 95%CI 4.10‐38.91, P = 0.001).The prediction multivariable model for readmission represents an area under the curve (ROC) of 0.90. Mortality at 90 postoperative days in the group of readmitted patients was 13% versus 1.5 for the group of patients who did not require readmission (P < 0.001).

Conclusions: The factors predictive for readmission can help design individualized outpatient follow‐up plans and programs for the reduction of readmissions.
Perception and duration of pain after office‐based vocal fold injection augmentation
Authors: Crawley Brianna K. , Dehom Salem , Kutzner Emily , Murry Thomas , Krishna Priya , Hata Justin
Published: January 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

In‐office laryngology procedures are important in the treatment of voice and swallowing disorders. Patient tolerance determines which procedures can be performed without sedation or formal anesthesia. This study examines pain perception during and after in‐office vocal fold injection augmentation.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

Patients scheduled for office‐based vocal fold injection augmentation were prospectively enrolled at an academic voice center. The short‐form McGill Pain Questionnaire was administered before, during, and after the procedure and on postprocedure days 1, 3, and 7. Pre‐ and postprocedure vital signs were recorded and heart rate was continuously monitored. Telephone questionnaires were completed on postprocedure days 1 and 3.

Results

Forty‐five patients consented to participate in our study (24 males, mean age 61 years). Most patients experienced mild to moderate pain with increasing heart rate during the procedure. Pain remained or increased 20 minutes after the procedure and improved but persisted for 1 day. Sensory and affective discomfort was endorsed by the majority. A minority of patients experienced bruising and changes in swallowing with diet modification for 3 days after the procedure. Sixteen percent had discomfort after 1 week.

Conclusions

This is the first prospective study examining patient perception of pain during and after in‐office injection augmentation using a validated scale and pain descriptors with extended follow‐up. The results may offer guidance for patient counseling, consent, and treatment to improve tolerance and success.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 128:929–934, 2018
Gold nanospheres enhanced photothermal therapy in a rat model
Authors: Xing Linzhuang , Chen Bin , Li Dong , Wu Wenjuan , Ying Zhaoxia
Published: January 2018

Background and Objective

Efficient photothermal conversion of gold nanoparticles with strong light absorption suggests their wide use as selective photothermal agents in biomedical fields. The aim of this study is to investigate the use of gold nanospheres (GNPs) as exogenous visible light absorbers to improve laser treatment of port‐wine stains.

Materials and Methods

Thiol‐terminated methoxypolyethylene glycol modified GNPs (PEG‐GNPs) with peak extinction matching the visible light wavelength of the laser being used were synthesized. An in vitro capillary experiment was prepared to investigate the thermal response of blood vessels with and without injection of 4.54 mg PEG‐GNPs in mice prior to irradiation by a frequency‐doubled Nd:YAG laser at a wavelength of 532 nm.

Results

The in vitro results demonstrated that the photocoagulation size in blood vessels after exposed to laser light increased with the increment of concentration of PEG‐GNPs in blood within a certain range. However, the unwanted thermal response (i.e., cavitation) occurred when the concentration of PEG‐GNPs in blood was larger than 2.5 mg/ml. The in vivo results suggested that more obvious blood thermal response can be induced by laser light after injection of PEG‐GNPs. After injection of 4.54 mg PEG‐GNPs, laser radiant exposure required for thread‐like constriction of blood vessels decreased from 12.5 to 9.8 J/cm2 with the pulse duration of 10 ms, from 15 to 11.85 J/cm2 with the pulse duration of 30 ms, respectively.

Conclusion

This in vitro and in vivo experimental results show that PEG‐GNPs combined with laser light could be a promising modality to reduce the radiant exposure required for obvious blood thermal response, thereby providing a potential strategy for improving the laser treatment of cutaneous vascular lesions. Lasers Surg. Med. 50:669–679, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cryopreserved neonatal hepatocytes may be a source for transplantation: Evaluation of functionality toward clinical use
Authors: Lee Charlotte A. , Dhawan Anil , Iansante Valeria , Lehec Sharon , Khorsandi Shirin E. , Filippi Celine , Walker Simon , Fernandez‐Dacosta Raquel , Heaton Nigel , Bansal Sanjay , Mitry Ragai R. , Fitzpatrick Emer
Published: January 2018

Neonatal livers are a potential source of good‐quality hepatocytes for clinical transplantation. We compared viability and function of neonatal hepatocytes (NHs) and adult hepatocytes (AHs) and report their clinical use both intraportally and in alginate microbeads. Following isolation from donor livers, hepatocyte function was assessed using albumin, alpha‐1‐antitrypsin, and factor VII. Metabolic function was investigated by measuring resorufin conjugation, ammonia metabolism, uridine diphosphate glucuronosyltransferase enzyme activity, and cytochrome P450 (CYP) function following induction. Activation of the instant blood‐mediated inflammatory reaction by NHs and AHs was investigated using an in vitro blood perfusion model, and tissue factor expression was analyzed using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Clinical hepatocyte transplantation (HT) was undertaken using standard protocols. Hepatocytes were isolated from 14 neonatal livers, with an average viability of 89.4% ± 1.8% (mean ± standard error of the mean) and average yield of 9.3 × 106 ± 2.0 × 106 cells/g. Hepatocytes were isolated from 14 adult livers with an average viability of 78.6% ± 2.4% and yield 2.2 × 106 ± 0.5 × 105cells/g. NHs had significantly higher viability after cryopreservation than AHs, with better attachment efficiency and less plasma membrane leakage. There were no differences in albumin, alpha‐1‐antitrypsin, and factor VII synthesis between NHs and AHs (P > 0.05). Neonatal cells had inducible phase 1 enzymes as assessed by CYP function and functional phase 2 enzymes, in which activity was comparable to AHs. In an in vitro blood perfusion model, AHs elicited increased thrombus formation with a greater consumption of platelets and white cells compared with NHs (28.3 × 109 versus 118.7 × 109 and 3.3 × 109 versus 6.6 × 109; P < 0.01). Intraportal transplantation and intraperitoneal transplantation of alginate encapsulated hepatocytes was safe, and preliminary data suggest the cells may activate the immune response to a lesser degree than adult cells. In conclusion, we have shown NHs have excellent cell viability, function, and drug metabolism making them a suitable alternative source for clinical HT. Liver Transplantation 24 394–406 2018 AASLD.
Improving Hemocompatibility of Membranes for Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenators by Grafting Nonthrombogenic Polymer Brushes
Authors: Obstals Fabian , Vorobii Mariia , Riedel Tomáš , de los Santos Pereira Andres , Bruns Michael , Singh Smriti , Rodriguez‐Emmenegger Cesar
Published: January 2018

Nonthrombogenic modifications of membranes for extracorporeal membrane oxygenators (ECMOs) are of key interest. The absence of hemocompatibility of these membranes and the need of anticoagulation of patients result in severe and potentially life‐threatening complications during ECMO treatment. To address the lack of hemocompatibility of the membrane, surface modifications are developed, which act as barriers to protein adsorption on the membrane and, in this way, prevent activation of the coagulation cascade. The modifications are based on nonionic and zwitterionic polymer brushes grafted directly from poly(4‐methyl‐1‐pentene) (TPX) membranes via single electron transfer‐living radical polymerization. Notably, this work introduces the first example of well‐controlled surface‐initiated radical polymerization of zwitterionic brushes. The antifouling layers markedly increase the recalcification time (a proxy of initiation of coagulation) compared to bare TPX membranes. Furthermore, platelet and leukocyte adhesion is drastically decreased, rendering the ECMO membranes hemocompatible.
Polyolefins Made with Dual Metallocene Catalysts: How Microstructure Affects Polymer Properties
Authors: Voraruth Voradon , Caldera Anuar , Soares João B. P. , Anantawaraskul Siripon
Published: January 2018

Slow crack growth resistance correlates with the lifetime of polyethylene pipes. Since this measurement may take considerable time, alternative ways to estimate it help expedite the development of new polyethylene resins. The primary structural parameter (PSP2), calculated from the distribution of molecular weight and short chain branching of polyethylenes, can predict the stress crack growth resistance of polyethylene resins without needing to measure it over long periods of time. In this investigation, a model is developed to calculate PSP2 of ethylene homopolymers and ethylene/1‐hexene copolymers made with two metallocene catalysts. For each metallocene, the effect of the following parameters on PSP2 is investigated: (1) polymer mass fraction, (2) polymer average molecular weight, and (3) average comonomer fraction. The simulation trends agree with previously published experimental results. The generated 3D surface response plots are useful guides for the design of polyethylenes having optimized slow crack growth resistance.
Simple Photochemical Route to Block Copolymers via Two‐Step Sequential Type II Photoinitiation
Authors: Aykac Fikret Simal , Yagci Yusuf
Published: January 2018

A simple method for the preparation of block copolymers by a two‐step sequential Type II photoinitiation is described. In the first step, amine functionalized poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA‐N(Et)2) is prepared by photopolymerization of methyl methacrylate at λ = 350 nm using benzophenone and triethyl amine as photosensitizer and hydrogen donor, respectively. Subsequent benzophenone‐sensitized photopolymerization of tert‐butyl acrylate using PMMA‐N(Et)2 as hydrogen donor yielded poly(methyl methacrylate)‐block‐poly(tert‐butyl acrylate). The obtained hydrophobic block copolymer is readily converted to amphiphilic polymer by hydrolysis of the tert‐butyl ester moieties of the block copolymer as demonstrated by contact angle measurements. All polymers are characterized by NMR, Fourier transform infrared and UV–vis spectroscopies, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) thermal analyses.
Jordan operator algebras: basic theory
Authors: Blecher David P. , Wang Zhenhua
Published: January 2018

Jordan operator algebras are norm‐closed spaces of operators on a Hilbert space which are closed under the Jordan product. The discovery of the present paper is that there exists a huge and tractable theory of possibly nonselfadjoint Jordan operator algebras; they are far more similar to associative operator algebras than was suspected. We initiate the theory of such algebras.
Motor cortex synchronization influences the rhythm of motor performance in premanifest huntington's disease
Authors: Casula Elias P. , Mayer Isabella M. S. , Desikan Mahalekshmi , Tabrizi Sarah J. , Rothwell John C. , Orth Michael
Published: January 2018

Background: In Huntington's disease there is evidence of structural damage in the motor system, but it is still unclear how to link this to the behavioral disorder of movement. One feature of choreic movement is variable timing and coordination between sequences of actions. We postulate this results from desynchronization of neural activity in cortical motor areas.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to explore the ability to synchronize activity in a motor network using transcranial magnetic stimulation and to relate this to timing of motor performance.

Methods: We examined synchronization in oscillatory activity of cortical motor areas in response to an external input produced by a pulse of transcranial magnetic stimulation. We combined this with EEG to compare the response of 16 presymptomatic Huntington's disease participants with 16 age‐matched healthy volunteers to test whether the strength of synchronization relates to the variability of motor performance at the following 2 tasks: a grip force task and a speeded‐tapping task.

Results: Phase synchronization in response to M1 stimulation was lower in Huntington's disease than healthy volunteers (P < .01), resulting in a reduced cortical activity at global (P < .02) and local levels (P < .01). Participants who showed better timed motor performance also showed stronger oscillatory synchronization (r = −0.356; P < .05) and higher cortical activity (r = −0.393; P < .05).

Conclusions: Our data may model the ability of the motor command to respond to more subtle, physiological inputs from other brain areas. This novel insight indicates that impairments of the timing accuracy of synchronization and desynchronization could be a physiological basis for some key clinical features of Huntington's disease. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Neurogenic bladder in progressive supranuclear palsy: A comparison with Parkinson's disease and multiple system atrophy
Authors: Kim Kyeong Joon , Jeong Seong Jin , Kim Jong‐Min
Published: January 2018

Aims

Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) can present urinary symptoms, similar to other parkinsonian disorders. We investigated the urodynamic parameters of PSP and compared them with those of idiopathic Parkinson's disease (IPD) and multiple system atrophy (MSA)

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the urodynamic data in patients diagnosed with parkinsonian disorders (PSP, IPD, and MSA) presenting urinary symptoms. Clinical data, including onset age, duration, and severity, as well as treatment status of parkinsonian disorders and urinary symptoms were collected.

Results

A total of 131 patients (10 with PSP, 79 with IPD, and 42 with MSA) were included. The mean age and disease onset age of PSP patients were similar to those of IPD patients, but older than those of MSA patients. The disease duration until the onset of urinary symptoms in PSP patients was similar to that in MSA patients, but shorter than that in IPD patients. According to the urodynamic study, storage phase dysfunctions in PSP patients were similar to those in IPD or MSA patients. However, according to a pressure‐flow study, PSP patients showed higher rates of voiding failure, as well as lower maximum flow rate, higher post‐void residual volume, and higher proportions of impaired detrusor contraction than IPD patients, but rather similar to MSA patients.

Conclusions

Urinary dysfunctions in PSP patients were as extensive as those with MSA, and were more severe than those with IPD, especially in the voiding phase. This may reflect the extensive degenerative process of neural structure in PSP patients.
Probabilistic N‐k failure‐identification for power systems
Authors: Sundar Kaarthik , Coffrin Carleton , Nagarajan Harsha , Bent Russell
Published: January 2018

This article considers a probabilistic generalization of the N‐k failure‐identification problem in power transmission networks, where the probability of failure of each component in the network is known a priori and the goal of the problem is to find a set of k components that maximizes disruption to the system loads weighted by the probability of simultaneous failure of the k components. The resulting problem is formulated as a bilevel mixed‐integer nonlinear program. Convex relaxations, linear approximations, and heuristics are developed to obtain feasible solutions that are close to the optimum. A general cutting‐plane algorithm is proposed to solve the convex relaxation and linear approximations of the N‐k problem. Extensive numerical results corroborate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithms on small‐, medium‐, and large‐scale test instances; the test instances include the IEEE 14‐bus system, the IEEE single‐area and three‐area RTS96 systems, the IEEE 118‐bus system, the WECC 240‐bus test system, the 1354‐bus PEGASE system, and the 2383‐bus Polish winter‐peak test system.
The Human Eye Proteome Project: Updates on an Emerging Proteome
Authors: Ahmad Meleha T. , Zhang Pingbo , Dufresne Craig , Ferrucci Luigi , Semba Richard D.
Published: January 2018

The human eye is a complex organ consisting of multiple compartments with unique and specialized properties that reflect their varied functions. Although there have been advancements in ocular imaging and therapeutics over the past decade, the pathogenesis of many common eye diseases remains poorly understood. Proteomics is an invaluable tool to gain insight into pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of eye diseases. By 2013, when the Human Eye Proteome Project (also known as the EyeOme) was founded, there were 4842 nonredundant proteins identified in the human eye. Twenty‐three recent papers on the human eye proteome were identified in PubMed searches. These papers were used to compile an updated resource of 9782 nonredundant proteins in the human eye. This updated catalogue sheds light on the molecular makeup of previously undescribed proteomes within the human eye, including optic nerve, sclera, iris, and ciliary body, while adding additional proteins to previously characterized proteomes such as aqueous humor, lens, vitreous, retina, and retinal pigment epithelium/choroid. Although considerable advances have been made to characterize the complete proteome of the human eye, additional high‐quality data are needed to confirm and quantify previously discovered eye proteins in both health and disease.
Controllably Hollow AgAu Nanoparticles via Nonaqueous, Reduction Agent‐Assisted Galvanic Replacement
Authors: Rehn Sarah M. , Ringe Emilie
Published: January 2018

The galvanic replacement reaction is a robust tool for the controlled synthesis of hollow and semihollow bimetallic nanostructures, which have applications in a range of science, engineering, and medical fields due to the tunability of their localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs) and surface chemistry. Here, a controllable galvanic replacement of Ag by Au coupled with coreduction is described, performed in nonaqueous solvents including methanol, ethanol, and an N,N‐dimethylformamide:toluene mixture and yielding hollow and semihollow alloyed nanoparticles. Structural control, from semihollow to nanoshell, and plasmon tunability are demonstrated via control of the Au:Ag stoichiometry. The high structural dependence on temperature is shown, with striking changes in nanoparticle surface smoothness and pinhole density, and reveals the optimal reaction temperature to be 65 °C in alcohols. Through optimizing this reaction, smooth closed shell AgAu alloy nanoparticles with LSPRs tunable from 494 to 567 nm are obtained. This work provides a framework for galvanic replacement of large anisotropic Ag nanoparticles with Au in nonaqueous media, which can be extended to other solvent systems suitable for air‐sensitive metals and precursors.
Rare germline mutations in African American men diagnosed with early‐onset prostate cancer
Authors: Beebe‐Dimmer Jennifer L. , Zuhlke Kimberly A. , Johnson Anna M. , Liesman Daniel , Cooney Kathleen A.
Published: January 2018

Background

African Americans have both a higher incidence of prostate cancer and greater disease‐specific mortality compared with non‐Hispanic whites. Historically, the investigation of the contribution of rare genetic variants to prostate cancer in African American men has been hampered by low participation in large genetic studies, particularly those focused on early‐onset and familial disease.

Methods

We sequenced 160 genes purported to be involved in carcinogenic pathways in germline DNA samples collected from 96 African American men diagnosed with early‐onset prostate cancer (≤55 years at diagnosis). REVEL software was used to determine the pathogenic potential of observed missense variants.

Results

We observed three protein‐truncating mutations, one in BRCA2 and two in BRIP1 in three African American men diagnosed with early‐onset prostate cancer. Furthermore, we observed five rare, mostly private, missense variants among four genes (BRCA1, BRCA2, PMS2, and ATM) that were predicted to be deleterious and hence likely pathogenic in our patient sample.

Conclusions

Protein‐truncating mutations in BRCA2 and BRIP1 were discovered in African American men diagnosed with early‐onset prostate cancer. Further study is necessary to determine the role of rare, missense variants to prostate cancer incidence, and progression in this group of high‐risk men.
Matrine inhibits the progression of prostate cancer by promoting expression of GADD45B
Authors: Huang Hai , Wang Qiong , Du Tao , Lin Chunhao , Lai Yiming , Zhu Dingjun , Wu Wanhua , Ma Xiaoming , Bai Soumin , Li Zean , Liu Leyuan , Li Qi
Published: January 2018

Background

Matrine is a naturally occurring alkaloid extracted from the Chinese herb Sophora flavescens. It has been demonstrated to exhibit antiproliferative properties, promote apoptosis, and inhibit cell invasion in a number of cancer cell lines by modulating the NF‐κB pathway to downregulate the expression of MMP2 and MM9. It has also been shown to improve the efficacy of chemotherapy when it is combined with other chemotherapy drugs. However, the therapeutic potential of matrine for prostate cancer needs to be further studied.

Methods

We analyzed KEGG pathways of differential gene expression between matrine‐treated and untreated prostate cancer cell lines and identified GADD45B as one of major target genes of matrine based on its role in apoptosis and prognosis value for prostate cancer patients in TCGA database. We further analyzed the expression of GADD45B protein in a tissue microarray and mRNA in TCGA database, and tested the synergistic impacts of matrine and GADD45B overexpression on proliferation, apoptosis, migration and invasion of prostate cancer cell DU145.

Results

Matrine promoted the expression of GADD45B, a tumor suppressive gene that is involved in the regulation of cell cycle, DNA damage repair, cell survival, aging, apoptosis and other cellular processes through p38/JNK, ROS‐GADD45B‐p38, or other signal pathways. Although GADD45B is elevated in prostate cancer tissues, levels of GADD45B in prostate tumor tissues are reduced at late stage of tumor invasion, and higher levels of GADD45B predict better survivals of prostate cancer patients.

Conclusions

Matrine may be used to treat prostate cancer patients to increase the levels of GADD45B to inhibit tumor invasion and improve patient survivals.
AC Response of the Edge States in a Two‐Dimensional Topological Insulator Coupled to a Conducting Puddle
Authors: Nagaev Kirill E.
Published: January 2018

We calculate an AC response of the edge states of a two‐dimensional topological insulator, which can exchange electrons with a conducting puddle in the bulk of the insulator. This exchange leads to finite corrections to the response of isolated edge states both at low and high frequencies. By comparing these corrections, one may determine the parameters of the puddle.
Beneficial effects of oleuropein on glucose uptake and on parameters relevant to the normal homeostatic mechanisms of glucose regulation in rat skeletal muscle
Authors: Alkhateeb Hakam , Al‐Duais Mohammed , Qnais Esam
Published: January 2018

Oleuropein, the main constituents of leaves and fruits of the olive tree, has been demonstrated to exert various therapeutic and pharmacological properties including antidiabetic effect. However, the effectiveness of oleuropein on glucose homeostasis in intact rat skeletal muscle ex vivo has never been explored. Therefore, our current study was carried out to investigate and confirm the beneficial effect of oleuropein (1.5 mM) on glucose uptake and on parameters relevant to the normal homeostatic mechanisms of glucose regulation in rat skeletal muscle. For this purpose, soleus muscles were incubated for 12 hr without (control) or with oleuropein, in the presence or absence of AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibitor, compound C, or wortmannin, an inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol kinase. Oleuropein‐stimulated glucose transport, plasmalemmal glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), and phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol kinase and AMPK were examined. We observed that oleuropein treatment enhanced glucose transport, GLUT4 translocation, and AMPK phosphorylation. The oleuropein‐stimulated glucose uptake and GLUT4 translocation were inhibited by compound C and were not affected by wortmannin. These results suggest that increased glucose uptake induced by oleuropein might be mediated through activation of AMPK and the subsequent increase in GLUT4 translocation in skeletal muscles.
Radioprotective effects of dammarane sapogenins against 60Co‐induced myelosuppression in mice
Authors: Dong Liming , Yang Yanyan , Lu Yan , Lu Cong , Lv Jingwei , Jiang Ning , Xu Qiuxia , Gao Yue , Chang Qi , Liu Xinmin
Published: January 2018

Radiotherapy frequently induces failure of hematopoietic system and leads to myelosuppression. The objective of this study was to investigate the protective effect of dammarane sapogenins (DS), the hydrolysed product of the constituent ginsenosides of Panax ginseng, which are produced by gut metabolism, on radiation‐induced hematopoietic injury. Mice were exposed to 3.5 Gy 60Co γ‐rays of total body radiation at a dose rate of 1.60 Gy per minute and treated with DS or granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor immediately after radiation. The general condition of the mice, the peripheral blood cell counts, multiple colony forming unit (CFU) assays of hematopoietic progenitor cells, hematopoietic stem cell counts, bone marrow histology, and spleen colony forming unit counts were then investigated. Our results indicated that administration with DS could ameliorate 60Co‐irradiation induced damage and significantly increase the number of peripheral blood cells (white blood cells and platelets), 5 types of hematopoietic progenitor cells CFU (CFU‐GM, CFU‐E, BFU‐E, CFU‐Meg, and CFU‐GEMM), hematopoietic stem cell (Lin−c‐kit+Scal‐1+) numbers, and CFUs in the spleen, as well as improved bone marrow histopathology. All together, these results confirmed the enhancement of DS on hematopoiesis.
Curcuma sp.‐derived dehydrocurdione induces heme oxygenase‐1 through a Michael reaction between its α, β‐unsaturated carbonyl and Keap1
Authors: Ohnishi Masatoshi , Urasaki Tomoka , Egusa Kyohei , Kunobu Chihiro , Harada Tomoki , Shinkado Reika , Nishi Hitomi , Maehara Shoji , Kitamura Chinami , Hata Toshiyuki , Ohashi Kazuyoshi , Shibuya Hirotaka , Inoue Atsuko
Published: January 2018

To elucidate the anti‐inflammatory mechanism of Curcuma sp., we investigated whether dehydrocurdione, a sesquiterpene contained in Curcuma sp., induces heme oxygenase (HO)‐1, an antioxidative enzyme, in RAW 264.7 macrophages. Dehydrocurdione was extracted from the rhizome of Curcuma sp., and its purity was verified by high performance liquid chromatography. Treatment with 10–100 μM dehydrocurdione transiently and concentration‐dependently increased HO‐1 mRNA and protein levels. Docking simulation suggested the presence of the Michael reaction between dehydrocurdione and Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein (Keap)1 keeping nuclear factor‐erythroid2‐related‐factor (Nrf)2, a transcription factor, in the cytoplasm. Nrf2 that was definitely free from Keap1 was detected in the nuclei after dehydrocurdione treatment. Subsequently, the HO‐1 E2 enhancer, a target of Nrf2, was activated, resulting in HO‐1 expression. Also, an investigation using 6‐shogaol and 6‐gingerol supported the concept that the α, β‐unsaturated carbonyl structure plays an important role in the interaction with Keap1. Dehydrocurdione suppressed lipopolysaccharide‐induced NO release, a marker of inflammation. Clarification of the HO‐1 synthesis increase mechanism revealed in this study will help contribute to the development of novel phytotherapeutic strategies against inflammation‐associated diseases.
Medicinal uses, pharmacology, and phytochemistry of Convolvulaceae plants with central nervous system efficacies: A systematic review
Authors: Chen Guang‐Tong , Lu Yun , Yang Min , Li Jian‐Lin , Fan Bo‐Yi
Published: January 2018

Central nervous system (CNS) disorders play a major impact on individual lives and place a severe strain on health care resources. Convolvulaceae is a family comprising approximately 1,600–1,700 species grouped in 55–60 genera, and many species are reported to have an effect on CNS functions. A systematic review of the literature studies was carried out to summarize available evidences on Convolvulaceae plants with CNS efficacies. This review is based on various data sources such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Wanfang Data. A total of 200 related articles were included in this review. According to the research result, 54 Convolvulaceae species are suggested to display CNS efficacies historically, and 46 species have been evaluated for their CNS efficacies. In addition, 67 compounds from 16 Convolvulaceae species are recognized to possess CNS efficacies. Despite great progress made through pharmacology and phytochemistry studies on CNS active Convolvulaceae species, more exploratory research is needed to gain a better understanding of the CNS efficacies of this plant family.
Fast image‐based mitral valve simulation from individualized geometry
Authors: Villard Pierre‐Frederic , Hammer Peter E. , Perrin Douglas P. , del Nido Pedro J. , Howe Robert D.
Published: January 2018

Background: Common surgical procedures on the mitral valve of the heart include modifications to the chordae tendineae. Such interventions are used when there is extensive leaflet prolapse caused by chordae rupture or elongation. Understanding the role of individual chordae tendineae before operating could be helpful to predict whether the mitral valve will be competent at peak systole. Biomechanical modelling and simulation can achieve this goal.

Methods: We present a method to semi‐automatically build a computational model of a mitral valve from micro CT (computed tomography) scans: after manually picking chordae fiducial points, the leaflets are segmented and the boundary conditions as well as the loading conditions are automatically defined. Fast finite element method (FEM) simulation is carried out using Simulation Open Framework Architecture (SOFA) to reproduce leaflet closure at peak systole. We develop three metrics to evaluate simulation results: (i) point‐to‐surface error with the ground truth reference extracted from the CT image, (ii) coaptation surface area of the leaflets and (iii) an indication of whether the simulated closed leaflets leak.

Results: We validate our method on three explanted porcine hearts and show that our model predicts the closed valve surface with point‐to‐surface error of approximately 1 mm, a reasonable coaptation surface area, and absence of any leak at peak systole (maximum closed pressure). We also evaluate the sensitivity of our model to changes in various parameters (tissue elasticity, mesh accuracy, and the transformation matrix used for CT scan registration). We also measure the influence of the positions of the chordae tendineae on simulation results and show that marginal chordae have a greater influence on the final shape than intermediate chordae.

Conclusions: The mitral valve simulation can help the surgeon understand valve behaviour and anticipate the outcome of a procedure.
Direct Assessment of the Toxicity of Molybdenum Disulfide Atomically Thin Film and Microparticles via Cytotoxicity and Patch Testing
Authors: Chen Weibing , Qi Wenjin , Lu Wei , Chaudhury Nikhil Roy , Yuan Jiangtan , Qin Lidong , Lou Jun
Published: January 2018

The low toxicity of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) atomically thin film and microparticles is confirmed via cytotoxicity and patch testing in this report. The toxicity of MoS2 thin film and microparticles is extensively studied but is still inconclusive due to potential organic contamination in the preparations of samples. Such contamination is avoided here through preparing MoS2 atomically thin film via direct sulfurization of molybdenum thin film on quartz plate, which permits a direct assessment of its toxicity without any contamination. Six different types of cells, including normal, cancer, and immortal cells, are cultured in the media containing MoS2 thin film on quartz plates or dispersed MoS2 microparticles and their viability is evaluated with respect to the concentrations of samples. Detached thin films from the quartz plates are also investigated to estimate the toxicity of dispersed MoS2 in biological media. Allergy testing on skin of guinea pigs is also conducted to understand their effect on animal skins. By avoiding possible organic contamination, the low toxicity of MoS2 atomically thin film and microparticles to cells and animal skins paves the way for its applications in flexible biosensing/bioimaging devices and biocompatible coatings.
Silicon‐Based Anodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries: From Fundamentals to Practical Applications
Authors: Feng Kun , Li Matthew , Liu Wenwen , Kashkooli Ali Ghorbani , Xiao Xingcheng , Cai Mei , Chen Zhongwei
Published: January 2018

Silicon has been intensively studied as an anode material for lithium‐ion batteries (LIB) because of its exceptionally high specific capacity. However, silicon‐based anode materials usually suffer from large volume change during the charge and discharge process, leading to subsequent pulverization of silicon, loss of electric contact, and continuous side reactions. These transformations cause poor cycle life and hinder the wide commercialization of silicon for LIBs. The lithiation and delithiation behaviors, and the interphase reaction mechanisms, are progressively studied and understood. Various nanostructured silicon anodes are reported to exhibit both superior specific capacity and cycle life compared to commercial carbon‐based anodes. However, some practical issues with nanostructured silicon cannot be ignored, and must be addressed if it is to be widely used in commercial LIBs. This Review outlines major impactful work on silicon‐based anodes, and the most recent research directions in this field, specifically, the engineering of silicon architectures, the construction of silicon‐based composites, and other performance‐enhancement studies including electrolytes and binders. The burgeoning research efforts in the development of practical silicon electrodes, and full‐cell silicon‐based LIBs are specially stressed, which are key to the successful commercialization of silicon anodes, and large‐scale deployment of next‐generation high energy density LIBs.
Understanding Fundamentals and Reaction Mechanisms of Electrode Materials for Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yu Linghui , Wang Luyuan Paul , Liao Hanbin , Wang Jingxian , Feng Zhenxing , Lev Ovadia , Loo Joachim S. C. , Sougrati Moulay Tahar , Xu Zhichuan J.
Published: January 2018

Development of efficient, affordable, and sustainable energy storage technologies has become an area of interest due to the worsening environmental issues and rising technological dependence on Li‐ion batteries. Na‐ion batteries (NIBs) have been receiving intensive research efforts during the last few years. Owing to their potentially low cost and relatively high energy density, NIBs are promising energy storage devices, especially for stationary applications. A fundamental understanding of electrode properties during electrochemical reactions is important for the development of low cost, high‐energy density, and long shelf life NIBs. This Review aims to summarize and discuss reaction mechanisms of the major types of NIB electrode materials reported. By appreciating how the material works and the fundamental flaws it possesses, it is hoped that this Review will assist readers in coming up with innovative solutions for designing better materials for NIBs.