bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Squirrel monkey responses to information from social demonstration and individual exploration using touchscreen and object choice tasks
Authors: Renner Elizabeth , Atkinson Mark , Caldwell Christine A.
Published: November 2019

We aimed to study whether a non-human primate species responded differently to information acquired socially compared with that acquired individually. To do so, we attempted to train squirrel monkeys to perform binary discriminations. These involved exposure to either social information (human or puppet demonstrator performs an initial ‘information trial’) or individual exploration (monkey performs information trial as well as subsequent test trials). In Experiment 1, we presented the task on a touchscreen tablet. Only one monkey appeared to learn the significance of the information trial, and across the group there was no improvement in performance over sessions. The proficient individual showed little evidence of successful transfer to three-way discrimination problems, suggesting limited representation of the task structure. In Experiment 2, we used a logically identical task, presented as a physical object choice (inverted cups concealing a food reward). No monkeys learned to use the information trial cues, and success again did not increase over sessions. We concluded that the monkeys’ poor performance in Experiment 1 was not attributable to the mode of presentation (touchscreen), but reflected real difficulties with mastering the task structure. For both experiments, we analysed the monkeys’ spontaneous responses to the different trial types (social-win, social-lose, individual-win, and individual-lose). We found that monkeys had a tendency to repeat selections made during the information trial, whether these were made by themselves or by a demonstrator. This tendency to repeat was observed even following lose trials (i.e. when incorrect). Apparent ‘success’ following win trials was probably largely an artefact of behavioural inertia (individual learning conditions) and stimulus enhancement (social learning conditions), rather than sensitivity to the reward cues associated with that stimulus. Although monkeys did respond somewhat differently (more repeats) following win trials, compared with lose trials, this was no more apparent in the object choice task than the touchscreen task, again suggesting that the less ecologically valid presentation medium did not actively disrupt potential for learning the discrimination rule. Both touchscreen and physical object choice tasks appear to be valid methods to study learning in squirrel monkeys, with neither method giving a clear performance advantage over the other. However, this population did not master the contingencies in these tasks.
The Effect of IFRS Adoption on the Readability of Annual Reports: An Empirical Study of Indonesian Public Companies
Authors: Hidayatullah Irfan , Setyaningrum Dyah
Published: November 2019

This study aims to determine the effect of IFRS adoption on the readability of annual reports readability in Indonesia. The sample of this study includes 52 non-financial firms within a four-year period, from 2010-2011 and 2013-2014, with 208-year observations. Hypothesis testing is conducted by multiple linear regression analysis. This study provides evidence that IFRS adoption has significant and negative relationship with disclosure readability in Indonesian public companies. Implication of this study is IFRS adoption requires more sophisticated and/or more competent users of financial statements, measured by higher requirements of years of education needed to comprehend the disclosures.
MEFV gene mutations in neuro‐Behçet's disease and neuro‐Sweet disease
Authors: Ishikawa Hidehiro , Shindo Akihiro , Ii Yuichiro , Kishida Dai , Niwa Atsushi , Nishiguchi Yamato , Matsuura Keita , Kato Natsuko , Mizutani Akane , Tachibana Kei , Hirata Yoshinori , Matsuyama Hirofumi , Ogawa‐Ito Ai , Taniguchi Akira , Tomimoto Hidekazu
Published: November 2019

Mediterranean fever (MEFV) gene mutations are associated with familial Mediterranean fever (FMF). Recent studies have suggested that MEFV gene mutations may act as disease modifiers in neuro‐Behçet's (NBD) disease and neuro‐Sweet disease (NSD). We investigated MEFV genes and clinical features in 17 patients with NBD or NSD. MEFV gene mutations were frequently observed (70.6%). Headaches and exertional leg pain were associated with MEFV gene mutations (P < 0.05). Moreover, higher frequency of white matter lesions without sites predilection (P < 0.05) and non‐parenchymal lesions (P < 0.05) were also observed. MEFV gene mutations may be associated with particular findings and lesion sites.
Decorating 3D Printed Scaffolds with Electrospun Nanofiber Segments for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Li Ruiquan , McCarthy Alec , Zhang Yu Shrike , Xie Jingwei
Published: November 2019

Repairing large tissue defects often represents a great challenge in clinics due to issues regarding lack of donors, mismatched sizes, irregular shapes, and immune rejection. 3D printed scaffolds are attractive for growing cells and producing tissue constructs because of the intricate control over pore size, porosity, and geometric shape, but the lack of biomimetic surface nanotopography and limited biomolecule presenting capacity render them less efficacious in regulating cell responses. Herein, a facile method for coating 3D printed scaffolds with electrospun nanofiber segments is reported. The surface morphology of modified 3D scaffolds changes dramatically, displaying a biomimetic nanofibrous structure, while the bulk mechanical property, pore size, and porosity are not significantly compromised. The short nanofibers‐decorated 3D printed scaffolds significantly promote adhesion and proliferation of pre‐osteoblasts and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). Further immobilization of bone morphogenetic protein‐2 mimicking peptides to nanofiber segments‐decorated 3D printed scaffolds show enhanced mRNA expressions of osteogenic markers Runx2, Alp, OCN, and BSP in BMSCs, indicating the enhancement of BMSCs osteogenic differentiation. Together, the combination of 3D printing and electrospinning is a promising approach to greatly expand the functions of 3D printed scaffolds and enhance the efficacy of 3D printed scaffolds for tissue engineering.
Dielectric Modulated Cellulose Paper/PDMS‐Based Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Wireless Transmission and Electropolymerization Applications
Authors: Shi Kunming , Zou Haiyang , Sun Bin , Jiang Pingkai , He Jinliang , Huang Xingyi
Published: November 2019

Achieving high output performance is the key in the development of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) for future versatile applications. In this study, a novel TENG assembled with porous cellulose paper and polydimethylsiloxane is demonstrated. Through dielectric modulation of the friction materials by the nanoparticles (i.e., BaTiO3, Ag), the triboelectric outputs increase significantly with the permittivity increase, which is attributed to the enhancement of the charge trapping capability and the surface charge density of the friction materials. The dielectric modulated TENG demonstrates a high output voltage of 88 V and a current of 8.3 µA, corresponding to an output power of 141 µW. Acting as a sensor unit, the TENG can successfully operate in a wireless transmission system, which can remotely monitor the machine operation and deliver the messages associated with finger movements. Moreover, the TENG can also perform as an efficient power source in an electropolymerization system for electropolymerizing polyaniline on a carbon nanotube electrode, holding a great potential to synthesize a high capacitance electrode for supercapacitors. This work provides a simple and efficient way to construct high performance TENGs and promotes their practical applications in the fields of wireless transmission and electropolymerization systems.
Ultrahigh Breakdown Strength and Improved Energy Density of Polymer Nanocomposites with Gradient Distribution of Ceramic Nanoparticles
Authors: Jiang Yanda , Zhang Xin , Shen Zhonghui , Li Xinhui , Yan Jingjing , Li Bao‐Wen , Nan Ce‐Wen
Published: November 2019

High‐energy‐density polymer nanocomposites with high‐dielectric‐constant ceramic nanoparticles as the reinforcement exhibit great potential for energy storage applications in modern electronic and electrical systems. However, the decline of breakdown strength by high loading of ceramic nanoparticles hinders this composite approach from sustainable promotion of energy density. In this work, an approach is proposed and demonstrated by constructing gradient distribution of the spherical ceramic nanoparticles in the polymer matrix. These gradient‐structured nanocomposites possess remarkably improved mechanical and electrical behaviors, which give rise to ultrahigh breakdown strength and much‐promoted energy density. Moreover, this enhancement effect can be further enlarged via increasing the grades number of gradient structures. This work provides an effective strategy for developing flexible high‐energy‐density polymer/ceramic nanocomposites for dielectric and energy storage applications.
Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanofibers on Cu Foil as a 3D Current Collector for Reversible Li Plating/Stripping toward High‐Performance Li–S Batteries
Authors: Chen Yazhou , Elangovan Ayyappan , Zeng Danli , Zhang Yunfeng , Ke Hanzhong , Li Jun , Sun Yubao , Cheng Hansong
Published: November 2019

A vertically aligned carbon nanofiber (VACNF) array with unique conically stacked graphitic structure directly grown on a planar Cu current collector (denoted as VACNF/Cu) is used as a high‐porosity 3D host to overcome the commonly encountered issues of Li metal anodes. The excellent electrical conductivity and highly active lithiophilic graphitic edge sites facilitate homogenous coaxial Li plating/stripping around each VACNF and forming a uniform solid electrolyte interphase. The high specific surface area effectively reduces the local current density and suppresses dendrite growth during the charging/discharging processes. Meanwhile, this open nanoscale vertical 3D structure eliminates the volume changes during Li plating/stripping. As a result, highly reversible Li plating/stripping with high coulombic efficiency is achieved at various current densities. A low voltage hysteresis of 35 mV over 500 h in symmetric cells is achieved at 1 mA cm−2 with an areal Li plating capacity of 2 mAh cm−2, which is far superior to the planar Cu current collector. Furthermore, a Li–S battery using a S@PAN cathode and a lithium‐plated VACNF/Cu (VACNF/Cu@Li) anode with slightly higher capacity (2 mAh cm−2) exhibits an excellent rate capability and high cycling stability with no capacity fading over 600 cycles.
Precisely Encoded Barcodes Using Tetrapod CdSe/CdS Quantum Dots with a Large Stokes Shift for Multiplexed Detection
Authors: Wu Weijie , Yu Xujiang , Gao Mengyu , Gull Sehrish , Shen Lisong , Wang Weiwei , Li Li , Yin Yue , Li Wanwan
Published: November 2019

A serious obstacle to the construction of high‐capacity optical barcodes in suspension array technology is energy transfer, which can prompt unpredictable barcode signals, limited barcode numbers, and the need for an unfeasible number of experimental iterations. This work reports an effective and simple way to eliminate energy transfer in multicolor quantum dots (QDs)‐encoded microbeads by incorporating tetrapod CdSe/CdS QDs with a large Stokes shift (about 180 nm). Exploiting this unique feature enables the facile realization of a theoretical 7 × 7‐1 barcoding matrix combining two colors and seven intensity levels. As such, microbeads containing tetrapod CdSe/CdS QDs are demonstrated to possess a powerful encoding capacity which allows for precise barcode design. The ability of the Shirasu porous glass membrane emulsification method to easily control microbead size facilitates the establishment of a 3D barcode library of 144 distinguishable barcodes, indicating the enormous potential to enable large‐scale multiplexed detection. Moreover, when applied for the multiplexed detection of five common allergens, these barcodes exhibit superior detection performance (limit of detection: 0.01–0.02 IU mL−1) for both spiked and patient serum samples. Therefore, this new coding strategy helps to expand barcoding capacity while simultaneously reducing the technical and economic barriers to the optical encoding of microbeads for high‐throughput multiplexed detection.
Magnetic Hyperthermia–Synergistic H2O2 Self‐Sufficient Catalytic Suppression of Osteosarcoma with Enhanced Bone‐Regeneration Bioactivity by 3D‐Printing Composite Scaffolds
Authors: Dong Shaojie , Chen Yu , Yu Luodan , Lin Kaili , Wang Xudong
Published: November 2019

Chemotherapy resistance and bone defects caused by surgical excision of osteosarcoma have been formidable challenges for clinical treatment. Although recently developed nanocatalysts based on Fenton‐like reactions for catalytic therapy demonstrate high potential to eliminate chemotherapeutic‐insensitive tumors, insufficient concentration of intrinsic hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and low intratumoral penetrability hinder their applications and therapeutic efficiency. The synchronous enriching intratumor H2O2 amount or nanoagents and promoting osteogenesis are intriguing strategies to solve the dilemma in osteosarcoma therapy. Herein, a multifunctional “all‐in‐one” biomaterial platform is constructed by co‐loading calcium peroxide (CaO2) and iron oxide (Fe3O4) nanoparticles into a three‐dimensional (3D) printing akermanite scaffold (AKT‐Fe3O4‐CaO2). The loaded CaO2 nanoparticles act as H2O2 sources to achieve H2O2 self‐sufficient nanocatalytic osteosarcoma therapy as catalyzed by coloaded Fe3O4 nanoagents, as well as provide calcium ion (Ca2+) pools to enhance bone regeneration. The synergistic osteosarcoma‐therapeutic effect is achieved from both magnetic hyperthermia as‐enabled by Fe3O4 nanoparticles under alternative magnetic fields and hyperthermia‐enhanced Fenton‐like nanocatalytic reaction for producing highly toxic hydroxyl radicals. Importantly, the constructed 3D AKT‐Fe3O4‐CaO2 composite scaffolds are featured with favorable bone‐regeneration activity, providing a worthy base and positive enlightenment for future osteosarcoma treatment with bone defects by the multifunctional biomaterial platforms.
Cation‐Exchange Synthesis of Highly Monodisperse PbS Quantum Dots from ZnS Nanorods for Efficient Infrared Solar Cells
Authors: Xia Yong , Liu Sisi , Wang Kang , Yang Xiaokun , Lian Linyuan , Zhang Zhiming , He Jungang , Liang Guijie , Wang Song , Tan Manlin , Song Haisheng , Zhang Daoli , Gao Jianbo , Tang Jiang , Beard Matthew C. , Zhang Jianbing
Published: November 2019

Infrared solar cells that utilize low‐bandgap colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are promising devices to enhance the utilization of solar energy by expanding the harvested photons of common photovoltaics into the infrared region. However, the present synthesis of PbS QDs cannot produce highly efficient infrared solar cells. Here, a general synthesis is developed for low‐bandgap PbS QDs (0.65–1 eV) via cation exchange from ZnS nanorods (NRs). First, ZnS NRs are converted to superlattices with segregated PbS domains within each rod. Then, sulfur precursors are released via the dissolution of the ZnS NRs during the cation exchange, which promotes size focusing of PbS QDs. PbS QDs synthesized through this new method have the advantages of high monodispersity, ease‐of‐size control, in situ passivation of chloride, high stability, and a “clean” surface. Infrared solar cells based on these PbS QDs with different bandgaps are fabricated, using conventional ligand exchange and device structure. All of the devices produced in this manner show excellent performance, showcasing the high quality of the PbS QDs. The highest performance of infrared solar cells is achieved using ≈0.95 eV PbS QDs, exhibiting an efficiency of 10.0% under AM 1.5 solar illumination, a perovskite‐filtered efficiency of 4.2%, and a silicon‐filtered efficiency of 1.1%.
Defect‐Engineering‐Enabled High‐Efficiency All‐Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Liang Jia , Han Xiao , Yang Ji‐Hui , Zhang Boyu , Fang Qiyi , Zhang Jing , Ai Qing , Ogle Meredith M. , Terlier Tanguy , Martí Angel A. , Lou Jun
Published: November 2019

The emergence of cesium lead iodide (CsPbI3) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has generated enormous interest in the photovoltaic research community. However, in general they exhibit low power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) because of the existence of defects. A new all‐inorganic perovskite material, CsPbI3:Br:InI3, is prepared by defect engineering of CsPbI3. This new perovskite retains the same bandgap as CsPbI3, while the intrinsic defect concentration is largely suppressed. Moreover, it can be prepared in an extremely high humidity atmosphere and thus a glovebox is not required. By completely eliminating the labile and expensive components in traditional PSCs, the all‐inorganic PSCs based on CsPbI3:Br:InI3 and carbon electrode exhibit PCE and open‐circuit voltage as high as 12.04% and 1.20 V, respectively. More importantly, they demonstrate excellent stability in air for more than two months, while those based on CsPbI3 can survive only a few days in air. The progress reported represents a major leap for all‐inorganic PSCs and paves the way for their further exploration in order to achieve higher performance.
Mechanical Analogue of a Majorana Bound State
Authors: Chen Chun‐Wei , Lera Natalia , Chaunsali Rajesh , Torrent Daniel , Alvarez Jose Vicente , Yang Jinkyu , San‐Jose Pablo , Christensen Johan
Published: November 2019

The discovery of topologically nontrivial electronic systems has opened a new age in condensed matter research. From topological insulators to topological superconductors and Weyl semimetals, it is now understood that some of the most remarkable and robust phases in electronic systems (e.g., quantum Hall or anomalous quantum Hall) are the result of topological protection. These powerful ideas have recently begun to be explored also in bosonic systems. Topologically protected acoustic, mechanical, and optical edge states have been demonstrated in a number of systems that recreate the requisite topological conditions. Such states that propagate without backscattering could find important applications in communications and energy technologies. Here, a topologically bound mechanical state, a different class of nonpropagating protected state that cannot be destroyed by local perturbations, is demonstrated. It is in particular a mechanical analogue of the well‐known Majorana bound states (MBSs) of electronic topological superconductor systems. The topological binding is implemented by creating a Kekulé distortion vortex on a 2D mechanical honeycomb superlattice that can be mapped to a magnetic flux vortex in a topological superconductor.
A Multifunctional Cascade Bioreactor Based on Hollow‐Structured Cu2MoS4 for Synergetic Cancer Chemo‐Dynamic Therapy/Starvation Therapy/Phototherapy/Immunotherapy with Remarkably Enhanced Efficacy
Authors: Chang Mengyu , Wang Man , Wang Meifang , Shu Mengmeng , Ding Binbin , Li Chunxia , Pang Maolin , Cui Shuzhong , Hou Zhiyao , Lin Jun
Published: November 2019

The unique tumor microenvironment (TME) facilitates cancer proliferation and metastasis, and it is hard to cure cancer completely via monotherapy. Herein, a multifunctional cascade bioreactor based on hollow mesoporous Cu2MoS4 (CMS) loaded with glucose oxidase (GOx) is constructed for synergetic cancer therapy by chemo‐dynamic therapy (CDT)/starvation therapy/phototherapy/immunotherapy. The CMS harboring multivalent elements (Cu1+/2+, Mo4+/6+) exhibit Fenton‐like, glutathione (GSH) peroxidase‐like and catalase‐like activity. Once internalized into the tumor, CMS could generate ·OH for CDT via Fenton‐like reaction and deplete overexpressed GSH in TME to alleviate antioxidant capability of the tumors. Moreover, under hypoxia TME, the catalase‐like CMS could react with endogenous H2O2 to generate O2 for activating the catalyzed oxidation of glucose by GOx for starvation therapy accompanied with the regeneration of H2O2. The regenerated H2O2 can devote to Fenton‐like reaction for realizing GOx‐catalysis‐enhanced CDT. Meanwhile, the CMS under 1064 nm laser irradiation shows remarkable tumor‐killing ability by phototherapy due to its excellent photothermal conversion efficiency (η = 63.3%) and cytotoxic superoxide anion (·O2−) generation performance. More importantly, the PEGylated CMS@GOx‐based synergistic therapy combined with checkpoint blockade therapy could elicit robust immune responses for both effectively ablating primary tumors and inhibiting cancer metastasis.
Endoscopic ultrasonography‐guided ethanol ablation of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors in multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 disease following complicated total pancreatectomy
Authors: Lin Hsiang‐Hung , Chang Chen‐Wang , Chen Ming‐Jen
Published: November 2019

Although pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (pNETs) account for a small proportion of all pancreatic tumors (1.3%), their incidence is increasing. A 54‐year‐old woman was previously diagnosed with hyperparathyroidism and prolactinoma. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan showed several oval homogeneous enhancement nodules on the pancreas, with sizes up to 10 mm, and endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS)‐guided fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) confirmed the diagnosis of pNETs. Based on her history of primary hyperparathyroidism combined with prolactinoma and her family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1)‐associated tumors, a diagnosis of MEN1 was made. Two months after the surgery, a follow‐up abdominal computed tomography (CT) scan showed a pancreatic remnant that was 15 mm in length, and at the 5‐month follow up, a 6 × 5 mm residual pNET within the pancreatic remnant was detected by EUS, CT, and MRI. Because the patient adamantly refused repeat surgical resection, we decided to ablate the lesion via an EUS‐guided ethanol injection with 1.3 mL and 1.0 mL of 99.5% alcohol in two sessions. At the 4‐month follow up, the contrast‐enhanced MRI showed no residual pNET. Repeated EUS with concurrent FNAC also yielded negative results. We concluded that we achieved a good response after the EUS‐guide ablation. EUS‐guided ethanol ablation is a feasible, safe, and efficient method of treatment when applied for small pNETs in MEN1 disease following complicated total pancreatectomy. However, the long‐term outcomes must be confirmed in future multicenter prospective studies comparing surgical resection and minimally invasive EUS ablation.
A rare cause of ischemic colitis: A case series of idiopathic mesenteric phlebosclerotic colitis from two medical centers in Taiwan
Authors: Kao Chien‐Neng , Lin Pao‐Ying , Chang Li‐Chun , Hsu Wen‐Feng , Tu Chia‐Hung , Chiu Han‐Mo , Chang Chun‐Chao
Published: November 2019

Idiopathic mesenteric phlebosclerotic colitis (IMP) is a rare disease entity of intestinal ischemia that is predominant in Asian populations. We present the clinical features, diagnosis, treatment, and outcome of this disease via a case series. We collected data from medical records in two medical centers in Taiwan. From 2008 to 2017, 11 cases were diagnosed with IMP, and their clinical features were analyzed. Eleven cases were included in our case series. The average age of the patients was 59 (±6.77) years old, and there was a predominance of women. More than half of our patients had a history of herb consumption. Their symptoms varied from asymptomatic to lethal, such as mechanical ileus. The most common colonoscopic finding was the dark purple discoloration and decreased vascularity over the edematous mucosa. In our case series, nine patients showed no disease progression after conservative treatment alone. In contrast, two cases required surgical intervention due to mechanical ileus. The symptoms of IMP may vary extremely, and it may present as asymptomatic or lethal. The etiology of this rare disease remained unknown, and some offending materials such as herb were considered responsible for its genesis. Both the specific radiological and colonoscopic characteristics helped to confirm its diagnosis. IMP should be always considered for ischemic colitis in long‐term herb users.
Sleep‐disordered breathing in children with pycnodysostosis
Authors: Khirani Sonia , Amaddeo Alessandro , Baujat Geneviève , Michot Caroline , Couloigner Vincent , Pinto Graziella , Arnaud Eric , Picard Arnaud , Cormier‐Daire Valérie , Fauroux Brigitte
Published: November 2019

Upper airway obstruction is a common feature in pycnodysostosis and may cause obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The aim of our study was to analyze sleep‐disordered breathing and respiratory management in children with pycnodysostosis. A retrospective review of the clinical charts and sleep studies of 10 consecutive children (three girls and seven boys) with pycnodysostosis seen over a time period of 10 years was performed. Six patients had severe OSA and/or nocturnal hypoventilation and were started on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) as a first treatment at a median age of 3.4 ± 2.6 years, because of the lack of indication of any surgical treatment. Three patients could be weaned after several years from CPAP after spontaneous improvement (two patients) or multiple upper airway surgeries (one patient). Three patients had upper airway surgery prior to their first sleep study with two patients still needing CPAP during their follow‐up. Only one patient never developed OSA. Patients with pycnodysostosis are at a high risk of severe OSA, underlying the importance of a systematic screening for sleep‐disordered breathing. Multidisciplinary care is mandatory because of the multilevel airway obstruction. CPAP is very effective and well accepted for treating OSA.
Photoredox Catalytic α‐Alkoxypentafluorosulfanylation of α‐Methyl‐ and α‐Phenylstyrene Using SF6
Authors: Rombach David , Wagenknecht Hans‐Achim
Published: November 2019

SF6 was applied as pentafluorosulfanylation reagent to prepare ethers with a vicinal SF5 substituent through a one‐step method involving photoredox catalysis. This method shows a broad substrate scope with respect to applicable alcohols for the conversion of α‐methyl and α‐phenyl styrenes. The products bear a new structural motif with two functional groups installed in one step. The alkoxy group allows elimination and azidation as further transformations into valuable pentafluorosulfanylated compounds. These results confirm that non‐toxic SF6 is a useful SF5 transfer reagent if properly activated by photoredox catalysis, and toxic reagents are completely avoided. In combination with light as an energy source, a high level of sustainability is achieved. Through this method, the proposed potential of the SF5 substituent in medicinal chemistry, agrochemistry, and materials chemistry may be exploited in the future.
Hybrid soft sensor modeling for bisphenol‐A synthesis reaction process
Authors: Cang Wentao , Yang Huizhong
Published: November 2019

To online estimate the concentrations of key components at the outlet of bisphenol‐A (BPA) synthesis reactor, a hybrid modeling approach is proposed in this paper. First, the simplified mechanism model for the synthesis of BPA in an industrial fixed‐bed reactor is deduced on the basis of mass and energy balance. Second, considering that the initial concentrations of reactants at the inlet of BPA synthesis reactor cannot be measured in real‐time, the modified stochastic gradient boosting‐Gaussian process regression approach previously proposed by the authors is employed to online estimate the initial concentrations of reactants. Furthermore, modified stochastic gradient boosting‐Gaussian process regression method is also adopted to model the nonlinear influence of the reaction factors ( i.e., initial concentrations of reactants and inlet temperature) on the reaction rate constants in the simplified mechanism model. Finally, the hybrid modeling approach for BPA synthesis process is achieved by integrating the simplified mechanism model with the estimation models of initial concentrations and reaction rate constants. The feasibility and validity of the proposed hybrid model is verified through an industrial BPA synthesis process. On the basis of the hybrid model, the sensitivity analyses of the initial concentrations and inlet temperature are conducted, which can provide theoretical guidance for the operation optimization study in future work.
Optimizing depth and type of high‐throughput sequencing data for microsatellite discovery
Authors: Chapman Mark A.
Published: November 2019

Premise

Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers (microsatellites) are a mainstay of many labs, especially when working on a limited budget, carrying out preliminary analyses, and in teaching. Whether SSRs mined from plant genomes or transcriptomes are preferred for certain applications, and the depth of sequencing needed to allow efficient SSR discovery, has not been tested.

Methods

I used genome and transcriptome high‐throughput sequencing data at a range of sequencing depths to compare efficacy of SSR identification. I then tested primers from tomato for amplification, polymorphism, and transferability to related species.

Results

Small assemblies (two million read pairs) identified ca. 200–2000 potential markers from the genome assemblies and ca. 600–3650 from the transcriptome assemblies. Genome‐derived contigs were often short, potentially precluding primer design. Genomic SSR primers were less transferable across species but exhibited greater variation (partially explained by being composed of more repeat units) than transcriptome‐derived primers.

Discussion

Small high‐throughput sequencing resources may be sufficient for identification of hundreds of SSRs. Genomic data may be preferable in species with low polymorphism, but transcriptome data may result in longer loci (more amenable to primer design) and primers may be more transferable to related species.
Osteoarthritis: A problematic disease in past human populations. A dependence between entheseal changes, body size, age, sex, and osteoarthritic changes development
Authors: Myszka Anna , Krenz‐Niedbała Marta , Tomczyk Jacek , Zalewska Marta
Published: November 2019

Osteoarthritis is a problematic trait in terms of etiology and interpretation in past human populations. The relationships between osteoarthritic changes (osteophytes, porosity, and eburnation) and entheseal changes, body mass, stature, bone massiveness, sex, and age on the basis of skeletal material from Łekno (Poland) are analyzed here. Entheses were the strongest contributor to the prediction of osteophyte expression and when all types of changes and all joints were taken together. Stature demonstrates a negative dependence on porosity. When each joint was analyzed separately, entheses were the strongest contributor to the prediction of arthritis expression in the wrist and hip. Age was the strongest contributor to the prediction of arthritis expression in the elbow. Body mass, stature, bone massiveness, and sex had no effect on osteoarthritic changes in any of the examined joints. The results of the present study suggest an important dependence between entheses and osteoarthritic changes. Other factors had little to no effect on differences in OA severity. These results do not dispel all doubts but enrich knowledge about the effect of etiological factors on osteoarthritic change formation. This knowledge is essential for proper, reliable interpretation of osteoarthritic changes in the context of past human biology, ecology, and behavior.
Nationwide cohort study of the impact of education, income and social isolation on survival after acute colorectal cancer surgery
Authors: Degett T. H. , Christensen J. , Thomsen L. A. , Iversen L. H. , Gögenur I. , Dalton S. O.
Published: November 2019

Background

Acute colorectal cancer surgery has been associated with a high postoperative mortality. The primary aim of this study was to examine the association between socioeconomic position and the likelihood of undergoing acute versus elective colorectal cancer surgery. A secondary aim was to determine 1-year survival among patients treated with acute surgery.

Methods

All patients who had undergone a surgical procedure according to the Danish Colorectal Cancer Group (DCCG.dk) database, or who were registered with stent or diverting stoma in the National Patient Register from 2007 to 2015, were reviewed. Socioeconomic position was determined by highest attained educational level, income, urbanicity and cohabitation status, obtained from administrative registries. Co-variables included age, sex, year of surgery, Charlson Co-morbidity Index score, smoking status, alcohol consumption, BMI, stage and tumour localization. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the likelihood of acute colorectal cancer surgery, and Kaplan–Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression methods were used for analysis of 1-year overall survival.

Results

In total, 35 661 patients were included; 5310 (14·9 per cent) had acute surgery. Short and medium education in patients younger than 65 years (odds ratio (OR) 1·58, 95 per cent c.i. 1·32 to 1·91, and OR 1·34, 1·15 to 1·55 respectively), low income (OR 1·12, 1·01 to 1·24) and living alone (OR 1·35, 1·26 to 1·46) were associated with acute surgery. Overall, 40·7 per cent of patients died within 1 year of surgery. Short education (hazard ratio (HR) 1·18, 95 per cent c.i. 1·03 to 1·36), low income (HR 1·16, 1·01 to 1·34) and living alone (HR 1·25, 1·13 to 1·38) were associated with reduced 1-year survival after acute surgery.

Conclusion

Low socioeconomic position was associated with an increased likelihood of undergoing acute colorectal cancer surgery, and with reduced 1-year overall survival after acute surgery.
Value of individual surgeon performance metrics as quality assurance measures in oesophagogastric cancer surgery
Authors: Powell A. G. M. T. , Wheat J. , Patel N. , Chan D. , Foliaki A. , Roberts S. A. , Lewis W. G.
Published: November 2019

Background

Surgeon-level operative mortality is widely seen as a measure of quality after gastric and oesophageal resection. This study aimed to evaluate this alongside a compound-level outcome analysis.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent treatment including surgery delivered by a multidisciplinary team, which included seven specialist surgeons, were studied. The primary outcome was death within 30 days of surgery; secondary outcomes were anastomotic leak, Clavien–Dindo morbidity score, lymph node harvest, circumferential resection margin (CRM) status, disease-free (DFS), and overall (OS) survival.

Results

The median number of annual resections per surgeon was 10 (range 5–25), compared with 14 (5–25) for joint consultant teams (P = 0·855). The median annual surgeon-level mortality rate was 0 (0–9) per cent versus an overall network annual operative mortality rate of 1·8 (0–3·7) per cent. Joint consultant team procedures were associated with fewer operative deaths (0·5 per cent versus 3·4 per cent at surgeon level; P = 0·027). The median surgeon anastomotic leak rate was 12·4 (range 9–20) per cent (P = 0·625 versus the whole surgical range), overall morbidity 46·5 (31–60) per cent (P = 0·066), lymph node harvest 16 (9–29) (P < 0·001), CRM positivity 32·0 (16–46) per cent (P = 0·003), 5-year DFS rate 44·8 (29–60) per cent and OS rate 46·5 (35–53) per cent. No designated metrics were independently associated with DFS or OS in multivariable analysis.

Conclusion

Annual surgeon-level metrics demonstrated wide variations (fivefold), but these performance metrics were not associated with survival.
Efficient itaconic acid production by Aspergillus terreus: Overcoming the strong inhibitory effect of manganese
Authors: Saha Badal C. , Kennedy Gregory J.
Published: November 2019

Itaconic acid (IA), a building block platform chemical, is produced industrially by Aspergillus terreus utilizing glucose. Lignocellulosic biomass can serve as a low cost source of sugars for IA production. However, the fungus could not produce IA from dilute acid pretreated and enzymatically saccharified wheat straw hydrolyzate even at 100‐fold dilution. Furfural, hydroxymethyl furfural and acetic acid were inhibitory, as is typical, but Mn2+ was particularly problematic for IA production. It was present in the hydrolyzate at a level that was 230 times over the inhibitory limit (50 ppb). Recently, it was found that PO43− limitation decreased the inhibitory effect of Mn2+ on IA production. In the present study, a novel medium was developed for production of IA by varying PO43−, Fe3+ and Cu2+ concentrations using response surface methodology, which alleviated the strong inhibitory effect of Mn2+. The new medium contained 0.08 g KH2PO4, 3 g NH4NO3, 1 g MgSO4·7H2O, 5 g CaCl2·2 H2O, 0.83 mg FeCl3·6H2O, 8 mg ZnSO4·7H2O, and 45 mg CuSO4·5H2O per liter. The fungus was able to produce IA very well in the presence of Mn2+ up to 100 ppm in the medium. This medium will be extremely useful for IA production in the presence of Mn2+. This is the first report on the development of Mn2+ tolerant medium for IA production by A. terreus.
Block Copolymer‐Derived Recessed Nanodisk‐Array Electrodes as Platforms for Folding‐Based Electrochemical DNA Sensors
Authors: Harandizadeh Zeinab , Ito Takashi
Published: November 2019

This paper reports the characteristics of folding‐based electrochemical DNA sensors fabricated on recessed nanodisk‐array electrodes (RNEs). The RNEs were based on gold substrates coated with polystyrene‐block‐poly(methylmethacrylate)‐derived thin films (30 nm thick) comprising vertically‐oriented cylindrical nanopores (14, 20 or 30 nm in diameter). RNE‐based sensors were fabricated by modifying the underlying gold surface with a stem‐loop DNA probe with a terminal methylene blue (MB) tag. The electrochemical responses of such RNE‐based sensors to complementary single‐stranded 17‐mer DNA were compared with those of film‐free counterparts using cyclic voltammetry. RNE‐based sensors exhibited signal suppression at a significantly lower target DNA concentration than film‐free sensors, possibly due to the manipulated dynamic properties of the MB tag as suggested by its apparent electron transfer rate constant and/or enhanced hybridization within the nanopores. These results indicate that RNEs provide unique platforms for developing folding‐based electrochemical sensors with improved sensitivity.
Nano/Micromotors for Diagnosis and Therapy of Cancer and Infectious Diseases
Authors: Yuan Kaisong , Jiang Zhengjin , Jurado‐Sánchez Beatriz , Escarpa Alberto
Published: November 2019

Micromotors are man‐made nano/microscale devices capable of transforming energy into mechanical motion. The accessibility and force offered by micromotors hold great promise to solve complex biomedical challenges. This Review highlights current progress and prospects in the use of nano and micromotors for diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases and cancer. Motion‐based sensing and fluorescence switching detection strategies along with therapeutic approaches based on direct cell capture; killing by direct contact or specific drug delivery to the affected site, will be comprehensively covered. Future challenges to translate the potential of nano/micromotors into practical applications will be described in the conclusions.
Light‐Induced Formation of Thymine‐Containing Mercury(II)‐Mediated Base Pairs
Authors: Naskar Shuvankar , Müller Jens
Published: November 2019

By applying caged thymidine residues, DNA duplexes were created in which HgII‐mediated base pair formation can be triggered by irradiation with light. When a bidentate ligand was used as the complementary nucleobase, an unprecedented stepwise formation of different metal‐mediated base pairs was achieved.
Alfred Werner: Overlooked Genius of the Periodic System
Authors: Kurushkin Mikhail V.
Published: November 2019

2019, which was proclaimed by the United Nations as the International Year of the Periodic Table, sees one hundred years since Alfred Werner, the first Swiss to receive a Nobel Prize in chemistry, passed away. The undoubted father of coordination chemistry, he is also well‐known for influencing many other fields of chemistry, including organic, inorganic, organometallic, bioinorganic, and stereochemistry. However, one of his more rare and unique contributions to chemistry, his 1905 version of the periodic system, to this day remains overlooked. The simple and elegant idea which he used to construct his periodic table has not been communicated to the English‐speaking world, because Alfred Werner published his only original paper on the periodic table in German. Werner's simple mathematical approach lead to overwhelming success with anticipating the future f‐block. He managed to predict almost perfectly the number of lanthanides, which was hotly debated at that time. Werner's genius vision was considerably ahead of its time. It was not until the 1940s and the discovery of actinide series when the idea of representing the elements as a 32‐column periodic table finally became justified.
Consequences of Curvature on Induced Magnetic Field: The Case of Helicenes
Authors: Orozco‐Ic Mesías , Barroso Jorge , Charistos Nickolas D. , Muñoz‐Castro Alvaro , Merino Gabriel
Published: November 2019

Helicenes consist of several fused rings twisted around an axis, forming a cylindrical helix, with π‐delocalized electrons in the non‐planar rings. Induced magnetic fields dissecting the orbital contributions of [6]‐, [7]‐, and [14]helicene are discussed. Computations show a deshielding cone produced by the π‐electrons along the helical axis. Unexpectedly, the response of the core electrons produces a shielding cone, which is cumulative and sensitive to the curvature of the systems owing to the overlap of the other ring responses. A warning is provided regarding the evaluation of the delocalization in curved systems in which the x‐ and y‐components of the induced magnetic field become relevant.
Gapmer Antisense Oligonucleotides Containing 2′,3′‐Dideoxy‐2′‐fluoro‐3′‐C‐hydroxymethyl‐β‐d‐lyxofuranosyl Nucleotides Display Site‐Specific RNase H Cleavage and Induce Gene Silencing
Authors: Danielsen Mathias B. , Lou Chenguang , Lisowiec‐Wachnicka Jolanta , Pasternak Anna , Jørgensen Per T. , Wengel Jesper
Published: November 2019

Off‐target effects remain a significant challenge in the therapeutic use of gapmer antisense oligonucleotides (AONs). Over the years various modifications have been synthesized and incorporated into AONs, however, precise control of RNase H‐induced cleavage and target sequence selectivity has yet to be realized. Herein, the synthesis of the uracil and cytosine derivatives of a novel class of 2′‐deoxy‐2′‐fluoro‐3′‐C‐hydroxymethyl‐β‐d‐lyxo‐configured nucleotides has been accomplished and the target molecules have been incorporated into AONs. Experiments on exonuclease degradation showed improved nucleolytic stability relative to the unmodified control. Upon the introduction of one or two of the novel 2′‐fluoro‐3′‐C‐hydroxymethyl nucleotides as modifications in the gap region of a gapmer AON was associated with efficient RNase H‐mediated cleavage of the RNA strand of the corresponding AON:RNA duplex. Notably, a tailored single cleavage event could be engineered depending on the positioning of a single modification. The effect of single mismatched base pairs was scanned along the full gap region demonstrating that the modification enables a remarkable specificity of RNase H cleavage. A cell‐based model system was used to demonstrate the potential of gapmer AONs containing the novel modification to mediate gene silencing.
Mild, Selective Ru‐Catalyzed Deuteration Using D2O as a Deuterium Source
Authors: Eisele Pascal , Ullwer Franziska , Scholz Sven , Plietker Bernd
Published: November 2019

A method for the selective deuteration of polyfunctional organic molecules using catalytic amounts of [RuCl2(PPh3)3] and D2O as a deuterium source is presented. Through variation of additives like CuI, KOH, and various amounts of zinc powder, orthogonal chemoselectivities in the deuteration process are observed. Mechanistic investigation indicates the presence of different, defined Ru‐complexes under the given specific conditions.
Performance evaluation of surgical techniques for treatment of scapholunate instability in a type II wrist
Authors: Leonardo‐Diaz Roberto , Alonso‐Rasgado Teresa , Jimenez‐Cruz David , Bailey Colin G. , Talwalkar Sumedh
Published: November 2019

We investigated the performance of three tenodesis techniques, modified Brunelli, Corella, and scapholunate axis (SLAM) methods in repairing scapholunate interosseous ligament (SLIL) disruption for a type II wrist using finite element–based virtual surgery and compared the results with those of a previous investigation for a type I wrist. In addition, a comparison of the carpal mechanics of type I and type II wrists was undertaken in order to elucidate the difference between the two types. For the type II wrist, following simulated SLIL disruption, the Corella reconstruction technique provided a superior outcome, restoring dorsal gap, volar gap, and SL angle to within 3.5%, 7.1%, and 8.4%, respectively, of the intact wrist. Moreover, application of the ligament reconstruction techniques did not significantly alter the motion pattern of the type II and type I wrists. For the type I wrist, SLIL disruption resulted in no contact between scaphoid‐lunate cartilage articulation, whereas for the type II wrist, some contact was maintained. We conclude that the Corella ligamentous reconstruction technique is best able to restore SL gap, angle, and stability following SL ligament injury for both type II and type I wrists and is able to do so without altering wrist kinematics. Our findings also support the view that type I wrists exhibit row behaviour and type II wrists column behaviour. In addition, our analysis suggests that the extra articulation between the lunate and hamate in a type II wrist may help improve stability following SL ligament injury.
Study of the lightfastness properties of prints on blister foils by spectral reflectance
Authors: Mandal Mahasweta , Bandyopadhyay Swati
Published: November 2019

This study describes the lightfastness properties of printed foil samples due to long‐time exposure. Lightfastness is an important property for any kind of print products to assess their print stability. The fastness properties of prints can be described in terms of print durability and image stability. It may also be used for verification of printed expiry date and authenticity or validity of the product. Moreover, any kind of deterioration in package print quality will affect the product's sale adversely. Little work has been conducted to study the fastness properties of printed films and foils. In this work, blister foils printed in the gravure printing process have been taken as the sample as they have extensive usage in food and medicine packaging. An artificial lightfastness tester BGD 865/A Bench Xenon Test Chamber (B‐SUN) is used to study the light fastness of Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black inks on the foil. The spectral curves and colorimetric values are measured using an Ocean Optics Spectroradiometer (DH2000BAL) before and after exposure. A kinetic model is proposed to predict the fading rate of the printed foil. The optimal model has given excellent prediction with a correlation coefficient of 0.90 to 0.93 for Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, and Black prints, respectively. The largest color difference ΔE00is achieved for Yellow print followed by Magenta. Cyan and Black prints have shown small changes with time when the gravure prints are exposed to the artificial aging chamber.