bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bone
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Primary bone tumours, nodes, and metastases have been classified clinically and pathologically. Primary sites include the appendicular skeleton, trunk, skull, and facial bones, spine and pelvis. Clinical assessment is based on physical examination and imaging. Factors that influence prognosis have been included.
Introductory Notes
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

The article provides an introduction to the sites and types of the various ophthalmic tumours that will be classified and staged in this section.
Malignant Melanoma of Conjunctiva
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Malignant melanoma of the conjunctiva and the nodes and metastases arising thereof have been classified clinically and histologically. Clinical assessment is based on physical examination for primary and nodes, and also imaging for metastases.
Gynaecological Tumours
Authors: Brierley James D. , Gospodarowicz Mary K. , Wittekind Christian
Published: February 2017

Paediatric gynaecological and urological tumours and nodes and metastases thereof have been classified. Tumours have been classified into Tier 1 and Tier 2. Staging of gynaecological tumours corresponds to the FIGO staging.
Assessment of Treatment Outcome
Authors: Manola Judith , Xu Wei , Giantonio Bruce J.
Published: February 2017

Cancer studies frequently employ clinical endpoints for outcome reporting in order to estimate treatment effect sizes. Most often these outcome assessments use time‐to‐event measures in addition to tumour response, toxicity and quality of life (QOL). The Kaplan‐Meier method is often used to estimate the actuarial rate for time‐to‐event measures. Non‐stratified or stratified log‐rank tests are frequently applied assessing the treatment effect among groups. The Cox proportional hazards regression model is commonly used to estimate the hazard ratio between different treatments. Because cancer outcome is often confounded by multiple other outcomes (e.g. various causes of death), competing risks regression models are used to assess the treatment effect. In addition, intermediary endpoints, such as changes in tumour size, tumour‐related chemical markers and tumour metabolism may also assist in evaluating new treatments. Therefore, the ability to accurately and reliably assess the direct antitumour effect of investigational therapies is critical for the optimal conduct of clinical trials. The goal of this chapter is to summarize general principles of cancer outcome reporting and estimation of treatment effect, and response assessment.
Lung
Authors: Ramalingam Suresh S. , Fernandez Felix , Higgins Kristin A. , Auffermann William F. , Khuri Fadlo R.
Published: February 2017

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer‐related deaths worldwide. Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for nearly 85% of all lung cancer and includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and large cell carcinoma histology. Treatment of NSCLC is based on stage at the time of diagnosis, histological subtype, molecular status and performance status of the patient. Treatments for early‐stage NSCLC are driven by curative intent, whereas for advanced or metastatic disease, palliation is the goal. Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is treated with chemotherapy with or without radiation based on the stage. Modest improvements in survival have been noted for all stages of NSCLC in recent years, although outcomes for SCLC continue to be dismal. Recent advances in lung cancer include early detection by CT screening, incorporation of adjuvant chemotherapy and individualized therapy based on molecular status.
Kidney
Authors: Ferguson J. E. , Rathmell W. Kimryn , Wallen Eric M.
Published: February 2017

Renal cell carcinoma is the third most common urological malignancy (behind prostate and bladder). Its clinical course is highly variable and difficult to predict. Generally, however, tumours confined to the kidney are highly curable through surgical removal, while metastatic tumours have a high mortality rate due in part to their resistance to traditional cytotoxic chemotherapy. However, recent identification of novel antiangiogenic and immunotherapeutic agents is dramatically improving the clinical course of metastatic disease. Furthermore, the increased utilization of cross‐sectional imaging in Western countries has resulted in earlier detection of small and curable cancers. Partial nephrectomy is increasingly utilized to remove these small tumours while preserving maximal kidney function. Current research aims to better understand which small renal masses require treatment and which can be observed, as well as to develop even more effective systemic therapies to prevent or treat metastatic disease.
Leukaemia
Authors: Zuckerman Tsila , Rowe Jacob M.
Published: February 2017

Leukaemia, although not a common malignancy, poses a major challenge both in diagnosis and treatment. In recent years, a dramatic advance has been made in our understanding of the heterogeneous biology of this disease owing to innovative techniques such as whole‐genome sequencing. This has led to improved classification and genetic risk stratification and hence, to a refined risk‐adapted therapy. Novel drugs are under development with intention to be added as a targeted therapy alongside, or instead of, conventional chemotherapy. This chapter aims to review the current approach to diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of different leukaemias with an emphasis on new advances in the field.
Cervix
Authors: Denny Lynette , Van Wijk Leon
Published: February 2017

Cervical cancer, a preventable disease with a clearly defined natural history and caused by infection with high‐risk types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), remains the third commonest cancer affecting women globally. Over 85% of cases are diagnosed in developing countries where the case‐to‐fatality rate ranges between 75% and 80%. Secondary prevention of cervical cancer in low income countries has failed to control the disease that affects women at an average age of 45–55 years. Diagnostic and treatment facilities in developed countries, along with functional screening programmes have made cervical cancer a well‐controlled and relatively rare disease in countries with robust health systems. In poor countries, women present with late‐stage disease and in most cases the disease is inevitably fatal. The introduction of new screening technologies and HPV vaccination offer new hope for the control of this common, yet preventable, disease.
Larynx and Hypopharynx
Authors: Agarwal Jai Prakash , Gupta Tejpal , Krishnatry Rahul , Joshi Amit , Dandekar Mitali
Published: February 2017

The larynx and hypopharynx are common sites of origin for squamous cell cancers of the head and neck. The aim of treatment is to maximize disease control and survival with preservation of organ function and acceptably low acute and late morbidity. With recent emphasis on quality of life, the use of mutilating and extirpative surgery has rapidly declined worldwide, paving the way for conservative surgical techniques like lasers, endolaryngeal options and non‐surgical options. Platinum‐based concurrent definitive chemoradiation is generally considered the standard of care in the non‐surgical management of locally‐advanced laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancer. Induction taxane‐based chemotherapy followed by platinum‐based concurrent chemoradiotherapy may be considered a reasonable alternative, although still investigational and unproven as equivalent to definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Altered fractionation radiotherapy remains an option to intensify treatment if systemic treatments cannot be tolerated or are not available. The role of targeted therapy (cetuximab) continues to evolve with maximum benefit for patients ineligible for platinum‐based chemotherapy. Surgery still remains an important option for patients with cartilage involvement at initial diagnosis, poor response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy or residual/recurrent disease following an organ‐preservation protocol. Despite significant understanding of biology and important advances in management, outcomes for advanced laryngeal and hypopharyngeal cancers remain suboptimal. There is a need to identify robust prognostic and predictive factors to guide decision‐making, specify appropriate endpoints for organ and function preservation, and validate them in appropriately designed clinical trials prior to adoption in the clinic. This chapter provides a comprehensive summary of aetiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and follow‐up, with a glimpse of current controversies, future advancements and research directions.
Skin
Authors: Porceddu Sandro V. , Veness Michael J. , Soyer H. Peter
Published: February 2017

Skin cancer is the most common cancer observed worldwide. This chapter focuses on non‐melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), specifically basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). BCC is more common than SCC, while MCC is rare. NMSC commonly occurs on sun‐exposed areas, such as the head and neck region, with solar radiation as the major causative agent. Surgery is often the predominant treatment modality, as it provides high cure rates and histopathological information. Some patients may require adjuvant radiotherapy (RT). Alternative treatments when surgery is contraindicated or not the preferred option include radiotherapy, cryotherapy, photodynamic therapy (PDT) or topical agents. The development of regional and/or distant metastases is associated with a poorer prognosis. Patients with high‐risk features, including immunosuppression, warrant referral to specialized clinicians and multidisciplinary clinics.
Melanoma
Authors: Margolin Kim , O'Sullivan Brian , Pollock Raphael
Published: February 2017

Melanoma arises in the skin but can be lethal in the brain. Surgery cures >90% of melanoma patients, probably because the visibility of the skin allows early diagnosis. Surgery for melanoma is the mainstay for diagnosis, for therapy of limited nodal and metastatic disease and even for brain metastasis if single or symptomatic. Advanced melanoma, defined as unresectable multisite metastatic disease or locally‐advanced disease not amenable to curative resection, is treated with immunotherapy or molecularly‐targeted small molecule chemotherapy. Immunotherapy may cure or provide durable and deep remissions for a portion of patients. Molecularly‐targeted therapy is for patients with specific mutations and generally after failure of immunotherapy, since these agents have a limited duration of activity. Efforts to discover the mechanisms of resistance to immunotherapy and molecularly‐targeted therapy will inform new treatments and strategies likely to cure a larger proportion of melanoma patients.
Au Sub‐Nanoclusters on TiO2 toward Highly Efficient and Selective Electrocatalyst for N2 Conversion to NH3 at Ambient Conditions
Authors: Shi Miao‐Miao , Bao Di , Wulan Ba‐Ri , Li Yong‐He , Zhang Yue‐Fei , Yan Jun‐Min , Jiang Qing
Published: February 2017

As the NN bond in N2 is one of the strongest bonds in chemistry, the fixation of N2 to ammonia is a kinetically complex and energetically challenging reaction and, up to now, its synthesis is still heavily relying on energy and capital intensive Haber–Bosch process (150–350 atm, 350–550 °C), wherein the input of H2 and energy are largely derived from fossil fuels and thus result in large amount of CO2 emission. In this paper, it is demonstrated that by using Au sub‐nanoclusters (≈0.5 nm ) embedded on TiO2 (Au loading is 1.542 wt%), the electrocatalytic N2 reduction reaction (NRR) is indeed possible at ambient condition. Unexpectedly, NRR with very high and stable production yield (NH3: 21.4 µg h−1 mg−1cat., Faradaic efficiency: 8.11%) and good selectivity is achieved at −0.2 V versus RHE, which is much higher than that of the best results for N2 fixation under ambient conditions, and even comparable to the yield and activation energy under high temperatures and/or pressures. As isolated precious metal active centers dispersed onto oxide supports provide a well‐defined system, the special structure of atomic Au cluster would promote other important reactions besides NRR for water splitting, fuel cells, and other electrochemical devices.
Ultrathin Iron‐Cobalt Oxide Nanosheets with Abundant Oxygen Vacancies for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhuang Linzhou , Ge Lei , Yang Yisu , Li Mengran , Jia Yi , Yao Xiangdong , Zhu Zhonghua
Published: February 2017

Electrochemical water splitting is a promising method for storing light/electrical energy in the form of H2 fuel; however, it is limited by the sluggish anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). To improve the accessibility of H2 production, it is necessary to develop an efficient OER catalyst with large surface area, abundant active sites, and good stability, through a low‐cost fabrication route. Herein, a facile solution reduction method using NaBH4 as a reductant is developed to prepare iron‐cobalt oxide nanosheets (FexCoy‐ONSs) with a large specific surface area (up to 261.1 m2 g−1), ultrathin thickness (1.2 nm), and, importantly, abundant oxygen vacancies. The mass activity of Fe1Co1‐ONS measured at an overpotential of 350 mV reaches up to 54.9 A g−1, while its Tafel slope is 36.8 mV dec−1; both of which are superior to those of commercial RuO2, crystalline Fe1Co1‐ONP, and most reported OER catalysts. The excellent OER catalytic activity of Fe1Co1‐ONS can be attributed to its specific structure, e.g., ultrathin nanosheets that could facilitate mass diffusion/transport of OH− ions and provide more active sites for OER catalysis, and oxygen vacancies that could improve electronic conductivity and facilitate adsorption of H2O onto nearby Co3+ sites.
Isomer‐Pure Bis‐PCBM‐Assisted Crystal Engineering of Perovskite Solar Cells Showing Excellent Efficiency and Stability
Authors: Zhang Fei , Shi Wenda , Luo Jingshan , Pellet Norman , Yi Chenyi , Li Xiong , Zhao Xiaoming , Dennis T. John S. , Li Xianggao , Wang Shirong , Xiao Yin , Zakeeruddin Shaik Mohammed , Bi Dongqin , Grätzel Michael
Published: February 2017

A fullerene derivative (α‐bis‐PCBM) is purified from an as‐produced bis‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (bis‐[60]PCBM) isomer mixture by preparative peak‐recycling, high‐performance liquid chromatography, and is employed as a templating agent for solution processing of metal halide perovskite films via an antisolvent method. The resulting α‐bis‐PCBM‐containing perovskite solar cells achieve better stability, efficiency, and reproducibility when compared with analogous cells containing PCBM. α‐bis‐PCBM fills the vacancies and grain boundaries of the perovskite film, enhancing the crystallization of perovskites and addressing the issue of slow electron extraction. In addition, α‐bis‐PCBM resists the ingression of moisture and passivates voids or pinholes generated in the hole‐transporting layer. As a result, a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20.8% is obtained, compared with 19.9% by PCBM, and is accompanied by excellent stability under heat and simulated sunlight. The PCE of unsealed devices dropped by less than 10% in ambient air (40% RH) after 44 d at 65 °C, and by 4% after 600 h under continuous full‐sun illumination and maximum power point tracking, respectively.
Morpho‐Butterfly‐Inspired Patterning of Helical Photonic Structures for Circular‐Polarization‐Sensitive, Wide‐Angle Diffuse Reflection
Authors: Mohri Yoshinori , Kobashi Junji , Yoshida Hiroyuki , Ozaki Masanori
Published: February 2017

Cholesteric liquid crystals are known to exhibit a circular‐polarization selective Bragg reflection band over a wavelength region determined by their reflective index and pitch. In a planar device where the molecules are aligned unidirectionally at the substrate surface, cholesteric liquid crystals act as flat dielectric mirrors, reflecting light at an angle fulfilling the law of reflection. Here, it is shown that by introducing a random structure inspired by the Morpho didius butterfly into the distribution of the helix phase, the reflected light phase becomes randomized, leading to a diffuse reflection that spans over an angle greater than ±30°. The reflection maintains its circular polarization selectivity, making these materials unique compared to the butterfly itself and other man‐made structures mimicking the butterfly's structure.
Furan Is Superior to Thiophene: A Furan‐Cored AIEgen with Remarkable Chromism and OLED Performance
Authors: Zhao Zheng , Nie Han , Ge Congwu , Cai Yuanjing , Xiong Yu , Qi Ji , Wu Wenting , Kwok Ryan T. K. , Gao Xike , Qin Anjun , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: February 2017

Furan‐cored AIEgen namely tetraphenylethylene‐furan (TPE‐F) is developed by diyne cyclization and its fluorescent and chemical properties are investigated and compared with its thiophene analogue. Results show that furan is superior to thiophene in terms of fluorescence, chromism, and charge transport. The mechanism of chromism of TPE‐F is investigated and its efficient solid‐state photoluminescence and good charge‐transporting property enable it to serve as light‐emitting material for the construction of electroluminescence devices with excellent performance. This work not only demonstrates an efficient strategy for constructing furan‐cored AIEgens but also indicates that they are promising as advanced optoelectronic materials.
Quantitative muscle ultrasound detects disease progression in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Zaidman Craig M. , Wu Jim S. , Kapur Kush , Pasternak Amy , Madabusi Lavanya , Yim Sung , Pacheck Adam , Szelag Heather , Harrington Tim , Darras Basil T. , Rutkove Seward B.
Published: February 2017

Objective

We assessed changes in quantitative muscle ultrasound data in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and healthy controls to determine whether ultrasound can serve as a biomarker of disease progression. Two approaches were used: gray scale level (GSL), measured from the ultrasound image, and quantitative backscatter analysis (QBA), measured directly from the received echoes.

Methods

GSL and QBA were obtained from 6 unilateral arm/leg muscles in 36 boys with DMD and 28 healthy boys (age = 2–14 years) for up to 2 years. We used a linear mixed effects model with random intercept and slope terms to compare trajectories of GSL, QBA, and functional assessments. We analyzed separately a subset of boys who initiated corticosteroids.

Results

Compared to healthy boys, increasing GSL in DMD boys >7.0 years old was first identified at 6 months (eg, anterior forearm slope difference of 1.16 arbitrary units/mo, p = 0.004, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.38–1.94); in boys ≤ 7 years old, differences in GSL first appeared at 12 months (0.82 arbitrary units/mo, p = 0.04, 95% CI = 0.075–1.565, in rectus femoris). QBA performed similarly to GSL (eg, DMD boys > 7 years old: 0.41dB/mo, p = 0.01, 95% CI = 0.096–0.72, in anterior forearm at 6 months). Ultrasound identified differences earlier than functional measures including 6‐minute walk and supine‐to‐stand tests. However, neither QBA nor GSL showed an effect of corticosteroid initiation.

Interpretation

QBA performs similarly to GSL, and both appear more sensitive than functional assessments for detecting muscle deterioration in DMD. Additional studies will be required to determine whether quantitative muscle ultrasound can detect therapeutic efficacy. Ann Neurol 2017;81:633–640
Complex mechanical conditioning of cell‐seeded agarose constructs can influence chondrocyte biosynthetic activity
Authors: DiFederico Erica , Shelton Julia C. , Bader Daniel L.
Published: February 2017

Articular cartilage with its inherently poor capacity for self‐regeneration represents a primary target for tissue engineering strategies, with approaches focusing on the in vitro generation of neo‐cartilage using chondrocyte‐seeded 3D scaffolds subjected to mechanical conditioning. Although uniaxial compression regimens have significantly up‐regulated proteoglycan synthesis, their effects on the synthesis of collagen have been modest. Articular cartilage is subjected to shear forces during joint motion. Accordingly, this study utilized an apparatus to apply biaxial loading to chondrocytes seeded within agarose constructs with endplates. The chondrocytes yielded a monotonic increase in proteoglycan synthesis both in free swelling culture up to day 8 and when the constructs were subjected to dynamic compression alone (15% amplitude at a frequency of 1 Hz for 48 h). However, when dynamic shear (10% amplitude at 1 Hz) was superimposed on dynamic compression, total collagen synthesis was also up‐regulated, within 3 days of culture, without compromising proteoglycan synthesis. Histological analysis revealed marked collagen deposition around individual chondrocytes. A significant proportion (50%) of collagen was released into the culture medium, suggesting that it had only been partially synthesized in its mature state. The overall biosynthetic activity was enhanced more when the biaxial stimulation was applied in a continuous mode as opposed to intermittent loading. Results of the present study strongly suggest that proteoglycan and collagen synthesis may be triggered by uncoupled mechanosensitive cellular responses. The proposed in vitro model and the prescribed conditioning protocols demonstrated that a short pre‐culture period is preferable to long free swelling culture condition as it enables a significantly higher up‐regulation of collagen. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2017;114: 1614–1625. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Liver transection using indocyanine green fluorescence imaging and hepatic vein clamping
Authors: Kawaguchi Y , Nomura Y , Nagai M , Koike D , Sakuraoka Y , Ishida T , Ishizawa T , Kokudo N , Tanaka N
Published: February 2017

Background

Three-dimensional (3D) imaging has facilitated liver resection with excision of hepatic veins by estimating the liver volume of portal and hepatic venous territories. However, 3D imaging cannot be used for real-time navigation to determine the liver transection line. This study assessed the value of indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging with hepatic vein clamping for navigation during liver transection.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent liver resection with excision of major hepatic veins between 2012 and 2013 were evaluated using ICG fluorescence imaging after clamping veins and injecting ICG. Regional fluorescence intensity (FI) values of non-veno-occlusive regions (FINon), veno-occlusive regions (FIVO) and ischaemic regions (FIIS) were calculated using luminance analysing software.

Results

Of the 21 patients, ten, four and seven underwent limited resection, monosegmentectomy/sectionectomy and hemihepatectomy respectively, with excision of major hepatic veins. Median veno-occlusive liver volume was 80 (range 30–458) ml. Fluorescence imaging visualized veno-occlusive regions as territories with lower FI compared with non-veno-occlusive regions, and ischaemic regions as territories with no fluorescence after intravenous ICG injection. Median FIIS/FINon was lower than median FIVO/FINon (0·22 versus 0·59; P = 0·002). There were no deaths in hospital or within 30 days, and only one major complication.

Conclusion

ICG fluorescence imaging with hepatic vein clamping visualized non-veno-occlusive, veno-occlusive and ischaemic regions. This technique may guide liver transection by intraoperative navigation, enhancing the safety and accuracy of liver resection.
Tetrahydroisoquinolines: New Inhibitors of Neutrophil Extracellular Trap (NET) Formation
Authors: Martinez Nancy E. , Zimmermann Tobias J. , Goosmann Christian , Alexander Tobias , Hedberg Christian , Ziegler Slava , Zychlinsky Arturo , Waldmann Herbert
Published: February 2017

Neutrophils are short‐lived leukocytes that migrate to sites of infection as part of the acute immune response, where they phagocytose, degranulate, and form neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). During NET formation, the nuclear lobules of neutrophils disappear and the chromatin expands and, accessorized with neutrophilic granule proteins, is expelled. NETs can be pathogenic in, for example, sepsis, cancer, and autoimmune and cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, the identification of inhibitors of NET formation is of great interest. Screening of a focused library of natural‐product‐inspired compounds by using a previously validated phenotypic NET assay identified a group of tetrahydroisoquinolines as new NET formation inhibitors. This compound class opens up new avenues for the study of cellular death through NET formation (NETosis) at different stages, and might inspire new medicinal chemistry programs aimed at NET‐dependent diseases.
Oxygen‐Assisted Hydrogenation of Jatropha‐Oil‐Derived Biodiesel Fuel over an Alumina‐Supported Palladium Catalyst To Produce Hydrotreated Fatty Acid Methyl Esters for High‐Blend Fuels
Authors: Mochizuki Takehisa , Abe Yohko , Chen Shih‐Yuan , Toba Makoto , Yoshimura Yuji
Published: February 2017

The partial hydrogenation of jatropha–oil–derived biodiesel fuel (BDF) with a high degree of unsaturated fatty acid tails was successfully performed on an alumina‐supported palladium catalyst, denoted Pd/γ‐Al2O3, under mild conditions (100 °C and 0.5 MPa) to produce hydrotreated fatty acid methyl esters (H‐FAMEs) enriched in monounsaturated components. Trace amounts of peroxides contained in the oil feedstock or the co‐feeding of proper amounts of molecular oxygen (400–1500 ppm) resulted in enhanced activity and durability of Pd/γ‐Al2O3. The produced H‐FAMEs exhibited significantly improved oxidation stability and uncompromised cold‐flow properties, and they can serve as an excellent source of high‐quality BDFs, particularly for high‐blend fuels.
Chemical Weathering of Alumina in Aqueous Suspension at Ambient Pressure: A Mechanistic Study
Authors: Abi Aad Jane , Casale Sandra , Michau Mathieu , Courty Philippe , Diehl Fabrice , Marceau Eric , Carrier Xavier
Published: February 2017

Transition aluminas rank among the main supports used for heterogeneous catalysis. Their stability in the aqueous phase is a key issue for catalytic processes, as their hydration can be strongly detrimental to their physicochemical and mechanical properties. As a consequence, the design of more stable alumina‐based supports relies on a better understanding of the mechanisms leading to their chemical and physical degradation. It is shown here that if suspended in water at atmospheric pressure and at temperatures up to 70 °C, all transition aluminas (from γ to θ‐Al2O3) transform into Al(OH)3 polymorphs (bayerite, gibbsite, and nordstrandite), although to different extents. A quantitative study of the aluminum concentration in solution and of the amount of hydroxides demonstrates that Al2O3 hydration occurs through a two‐step dissolution/heterogeneous precipitation process, with nucleation of Al(OH)3 on the surface of the alumina grains followed by particle growth. The grains become more fragile because of chemical weathering; the ensuing mechanical degradation by attrition, in turn, brings the weathering process to completion. The nature of the main hydroxide polymorph is a function of aluminum concentration and ageing time: first the kinetic product, bayerite, then nordstrandite and eventually gibbsite, the most thermodynamically stable hydroxide. Increasing crystallinity and decreasing specific surface area of alumina leads to a reduced amount in hydroxide formation.
Ultrasmall Palladium Nanoclusters Encapsulated in Porous Carbon Nanosheets for Oxygen Electroreduction in Alkaline Media
Authors: Yan Wei , Tang Zhenghua , Li Ligui , Wang Likai , Yang Hongyu , Wang Qiannan , Wu Wen , Chen Shaowei
Published: February 2017

Ultrasmall noble‐metal nanoclusters have been gaining extensive attention because of their unique catalytic activity. Herein, we describe a facile in situ method for the preparation of palladium nanoclusters encapsulated in porous carbon nanosheets as effective catalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline media. Structural characterizations through X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy studies indicate that the Pd clusters were well incorporated into porous carbon nanosheets. The composition of the nanocomposites was manipulated by varying the initial loading ratio of Pd to carbon nanosheets (Pd/CNS). Among the series of samples tested, the sample at a Pd/CNS ratio of 1 : 4 (Pd/CNS‐20 %) exhibited the best ORR activity with the most positive onset potential and largest diffusion‐limited current density, which was even superior to that of commercial Pd black, along with remarkable long‐term durability. The findings highlight the unique advantages of employing ultrasmall ligand‐free palladium clusters as cost‐effective ORR catalysts with high efficiency and remarkable stability.
Halogen‐Bond Effects on the Thermo‐ and Photochromic Behaviour of Anil‐Based Molecular Co‐crystals
Authors: Carletta Andrea , Spinelli Floriana , d'Agostino Simone , Ventura Barbara , Chierotti Michele R. , Gobetto Roberto , Wouters Johan , Grepioni Fabrizia
Published: February 2017

N‐Salicilideneanilines are among the most studied thermo‐ and photochromic systems in the solid state. Although thermochromism is a general property of crystalline N‐salicilideneanilines, photochromism is known in a limited number of cases. As a method for the construction of thermo‐ and photo‐responsive molecular architectures, the co‐crystallisation of 1,2,4,5‐tetrafluoro‐3,6‐diiodobenzene (I2F4) with three selected imines of o‐vanillin, named 1, 2 and 3, obtained through a condensation reaction with 3‐aminopyridine, 4‐bromoaniline and 4‐iodoaniline, respectively, is reported herein. All crystals and co‐crystals have been characterised by means of solid‐state complementary techniques (X‐ray diffraction, solid‐state NMR spectroscopy, absorption and emission spectroscopy). The role of halogen bonding and crystal packing in the optical and chromic properties of all solid materials is discussed. All solids exhibit thermochromic behaviour, and three of them (2, 22⋅I2F4 and 32⋅I2F4) are also photochromic. Imine derivative 3 crystallises in two different polymorphic forms (3 A and 3 B) and a solvate (3Solv). The bromo and iodo derivatives, 2 and 3 B, are isomorphous and form isomorphous co‐crystals with I2F4, but behave differently when exposed to UV light because only crystalline 2 is photochromic. Interestingly, the replacement of bromine with iodine seems to turn off the photochromism because crystalline 3 A and 3Solv, and even the 20.730.3 solid solution, do not manifest photochromic behaviour.
Hydrodeoxygenation of guaiacol over molybdenum‐based catalysts: The effect of support and the nature of the active site
Authors: Ansaloni Simone , Russo Nunzio , Pirone Raffaele
Published: February 2017

The hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of guaiacol has been chosen as a model process for the upgrading of lignin‐derived bio‐oils. Tests were carried out in a batch reactor at 350 °C, 4000 kPa of H2, in the presence of several Mo‐based catalysts prepared by impregnation of ammonium molybdate on SiO2, Al2O3, NaY zeolite, MgO, activated carbon, and graphite. These materials have been characterized by means of: N2 physisorption, XRD, FESEM/EDS, XPS, TPR‐H2, and TPD‐NH3, with the aim of correlating the physical and chemical properties of the prepared samples with the resulting features in the HDO reaction. Mo on activated carbon showed the best performances towards guaiacol demethoxylation, exhibiting complete conversion, 72 % of selectivity to phenol, and 19 % to p‐ and o‐cresol. The high surface area and low acidity of activated carbon allow good dispersion of MoOx which exhibits characteristic fragments with a lamellar shape, able to provide a large active surface with localized acidity.
Systematic investigation of asphaltene precipitation by experimental and reliable deterministic tools
Authors: Sayyad Amin Javad , Alimohammadi Sepideh , Zendehboudi Sohrab
Published: February 2017

Asphaltene precipitation in oil operations contributes to serious technical and non‐technical issues, which is affected by reservoir conditions such as pressure, temperature, dilution ratio, and type of diluent. In this work, a mathematical correlation is introduced to forecast the weight percent (wt%, g/g) of precipitated asphaltene in light oils. Experimental data are obtained based on high‐resolution images taken from high‐pressure cell processed by the image analysis method. Employing experimental data, a simple and precise correlation on the basis of the scaling/fractal theory is developed. In this study, the amount of asphaltene precipitation is considered in terms of pressure and dilution ratio in which the coefficients are simply calculated through the Vandermone matrix. Comparison between the model results and real data reveals a good match where the average coefficient of correlation (R2) is above 0.95. Additionally, two previous predictive methods, namely the Bayesian belief network and scaling models, are utilized and the outputs are compared (e.g. the magnitudes of mean squared error (MSE) are 0.0065 and 0.038 for C6 and C7, respectively), implying the effectiveness of the new deterministic tool in terms of accuracy and reliability such that the average MSE is 0.006 for both C6 and C7. The trustworthiness of the real asphaltene precipitation data is also assessed by the statistical leverage approach based on the hat matrix, standardized residuals, and William plot to specify the applicability domain (AD) of the predictive models. It was found that all deterministic techniques presented in this study result in satisfactory accuracy, since the entire collected experimental data are reliable within AD.
FULL WAVEFORM INVERSION OF THE SECOND‐ORDER TIME INTEGRAL WAVEFIELD
Authors: Sheng‐Chang CHEN , Guo‐Xin CHEN
Published: February 2017

We proposed a new full waveform inversion (FWI) method, namely full waveform inversion of the second‐order time integral wavefield, by enhancing low‐frequency components of seismic data with a second‐order time integration of seismic wavefield, which can efficiently reduce the initial model dependence of FWI. According to the propagation equation of scattering wavefield in scattering theory, we derived a propagation equation for the scattering wavefield with second‐order time integral, and used the leading order Born approximation for the linearization of the propagation equation. Based on the propagation equation for the scattering wavefield with second‐order time integral, using the scattering wavefield to invert for the distribution of scattering sources in subsurface, and using wavefield modeling to construct the incident wavefield, and according to the linear relationship between the scattering wavefield and the incident wavefield and velocity perturbation in the linear propagation equation for the scattering wavefield with second‐order time integral, we applied a formula similar to the imaging formula of migration to obtain the estimation of velocity perturbation, and established an iterative inversion method for the full waveform inversion of second‐order integral wavefield. Applying the inversion result of full waveform inversion of second‐order integral wavefield as the initial velocity model for the conventional FWI can efficiently reduce the initial model dependence of FWI. Numerical tests using synthetic data of the Marmousi model demonstrated the validity and feasibility of the proposed method. The final results of the new method can deliver much improved results than the conventional FWI. Furthermore, to test the independence from the seismic frequency‐band, we use a low‐cut source wavelet (cut from 4Hz below) to generate the synthetic data. The inversion results by our new method show no appreciable difference from the full‐band source results.
EVALUATION OF RESERVOIR PERMEABILITY USING ARRAY INDUCTION LOGGING
Authors: Feng ZHOU , Qing‐Xin MENG , Xiang‐Yun HU , Evert SLOB , He‐Ping PAN , Huo‐Lin MA
Published: February 2017

During drilling, the mud column sustains a slightly higher pressure than the formation to maintain the stability of the well wall, which causes the mud filtrate to penetrate into formation pores and displace in‐situ fluids. The invasion depth is affected by reservoir properties, especially the reservoir permeability. Therefore, it is possible to estimate the reservoir permeability if the invasion depth can be measured.

A numerical study was conducted to investigate the feasibility of evaluating reservoir permeability with array induction logging. A mud invasion model was built up by coupling mud cake growth with multiple‐phase fluid flow, and an array induction logging model was established based on the Born geometric factor theory. Joint forward simulations of mud invasion and array induction logging indicated that the responses of array induction logging can reflect the effect of mud invasion on the formation resistivity. Inversion based on the damped least square method revealed that the invasion depth can be acquired from array induction logging data.

We investigated the association between reservoir permeability and invasion depth, and found that in a reservoir with a permeability of 1 to 100 mD (1 mD=0.987×10−3 μm2), the reservoir permeability governs the invasion depth, and thus the permeability can be evaluated according to invasion depth. A two‐dimensional numerical simulation showed that the inversed invasion depth curve had a similar fluctuation to the permeability variation. For a layered formation, a series of interpretation charts can be produced to evaluate the permeability of every layer with tolerable errors. The numerical investigation proves the feasibility of estimating reservoir permeability with array induction logging.
Adolescent and young adult oncology patients: Disparities in access to specialized cancer centers
Authors: Alvarez Elysia , Keegan Theresa , Johnston Emily E. , Haile Robert , Sanders Lee , Saynina Olga , Chamberlain Lisa J.
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) ages 15 to 39 years with cancer continue to experience disparate survival outcomes compared with their younger and older counterparts. This may be caused in part by differential access to specialized cancer centers (SCCs), because treatment at SCCs has been associated with improved overall survival. The authors examined social and clinical factors associated with AYA use of SCCs (defined as Children's Oncology Group‐designated or National Cancer Institute‐designated centers).

METHODS

A retrospective, population‐based analysis was performed on all hospital admissions of AYA oncology patients in California during 1991 through 2014 (n = 127,250) using the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development database. Multivariable logistic regression analyses examined the contribution of social and clinical factors on always receiving care from an SCC (vs sometimes or never). Results are presented as adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS

Over the past 20 years, the percentage of patients always receiving inpatient care at an SCC increased over time (from 27% in 1991 to 43% in 2014). In multivariable regression analyses, AYA patients were less likely to always receive care from an SCC if they had public insurance (OR, 0.64; 95% CI, 0.62‐0.66), were uninsured (OR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.46‐0.56), were Hispanic (OR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.85‐0.91), lived > 5 miles from an SCC, or had a diagnosis other than leukemia and central nervous system tumors.

CONCLUSIONS

Receiving care at an SCC was influenced by insurance, race/ethnicity, geography, and tumor type. Identifying the barriers associated with decreased SCC use is an important first step toward improving outcomes in AYA oncology patients. Cancer 2017;123:2516–23. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Phase 1/2 study of immunotherapy with dendritic cells pulsed with autologous tumor lysate in patients with refractory bone and soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Miwa Shinji , Nishida Hideji , Tanzawa Yoshikazu , Takeuchi Akihiko , Hayashi Katsuhiro , Yamamoto Norio , Mizukoshi Eishiro , Nakamoto Yasunari , Kaneko Shuichi , Tsuchiya Hiroyuki
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

There are limited options for the curative treatment of refractory bone and soft tissue sarcomas. The purpose of this phase 1/2 study was to assess the immunological and clinical effects of dendritic cells (DCs) pulsed with autologous tumor lysate (TL) in patients with advanced bone and soft tissue sarcomas.

METHODS

Thirty‐seven patients with metastatic or recurrent sarcomas were enrolled in this study. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from the patients were suspended in media containing interleukin 4 (IL‐4) and granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor. Subsequently, these cells were treated with TL, tumor necrosis factor α, and OK‐432. The DCs were injected into the inguinal or axillary region. One treatment course comprised 6 weekly DC injections. The toxicity, clinical response (tumor volume, serum interferon‐γ [IFN‐γ], and serum IL‐12), and oncological outcomes were observed.

RESULTS

In total, 47 courses of DC therapy were performed in 37 patients. No severe adverse events or deaths associated with the DC injections were observed in the study patients. Increased serum IFN‐γ and IL‐12 levels were observed 1 month after the DC injection. Among the 37 patients, 35 patients were assessed for clinical responses: 28 patients showed tumor progression, 6 patients had stable disease, and 1 patient showed a partial response 8 weeks after the DC injection. The 3‐year overall and progression‐free survival rates of the patients were 42.3% and 2.9%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Although DC therapy appears safe and resulted in an immunological response in patients with refractory sarcoma, it resulted in an improvement of the clinical outcome in only a small number of patients. Cancer 2017;123:1576–1584. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Does the frequency of molecular monitoring after tyrosine kinase inhibitor discontinuation affect outcomes of patients with chronic myeloid leukemia?
Authors: Kong Jee Hyun , Winton Elliott F. , Heffner Leonard T. , Chen Zhengjia , Langston Amelia A. , Hill Brittany , Arellano Martha , El‐Rassi Fuad , Kim Audrey , Jillella Anand , Kota Vamsi K. , Bodó Imre , Khoury Hanna Jean
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

To the authors' knowledge, the optimal frequency of monitoring after tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) discontinuation in patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) has not been established. Data regarding the discontinuation of second‐generation TKIs used in first‐line treatment or after the failure of first‐line treatment with TKIs are limited. Herein, the authors report real‐world experience with “reduced frequency” molecular monitoring in patients with CML in all phases who discontinued treatment with imatinib, dasatinib, or bosutinib.

METHODS

The records of patients who discontinued TKIs were reviewed. Patients who discontinued TKIs were monitored prospectively on an intended schedule of monthly blood quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction for BCR‐ABL1 for 3 months, quarterly for 12 months, and every 6 months thereafter until loss of major molecular response (MMR). After loss of MMR, the TKI that previously was discontinued was reinitiated.

RESULTS

Between January 2010 and September 2015, a total of 24 patients in chronic (21 patients), accelerated (2 patients), and lymphoid blast (1 patient) phase discontinued imatinib (16 patients), dasatinib (5 patients), or bosutinib (3 patients) used in the front‐line treatment or beyond. Blood quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction for BCR‐ABL1 was performed 1.3 ± 0.7 times within the first 3 months (24 patients) and 2.7 ± 1.4 times in the following 12 months (18 patients). With a median follow‐up of 36.5 months (range, 3.2‐67.4 months), the probabilities of treatment‐free remission at 1 year and 2 years were 65.7% (95% confidence interval, 55.8%‐75.6%) and 59.7% (95% confidence interval, 49.1%‐70.3%), respectively. Loss of MMR was observed in 9 patients at a median of 2.8 months (range, 1.8‐14.2 months) after discontinuation of TKIs.

CONCLUSIONS

With the limitations of a small sample size, the results of the current study demonstrate that less frequent monitoring of BCR‐ABL1 does not appear to affect outcomes, and that discontinuation of TKIs used as first‐line treatment or beyond after resistance or intolerance to first‐line treatment appears feasible. Cancer 2017;123:2482–88. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
The complex relation between race, sex, and human papillomavirus status in head and neck cancer
Authors: Zevallos Jose P. , Mazul Angela L.
Published: February 2017

This study demonstrates that sex affects prognosis differentially in oropharyngeal cancer and nonoropharyngeal cancer. The authors also find that race does not affect survival in oropharyngeal cancer after adjustments for human papillomavirus status.

See also pages 1566‐75.
Adherence to National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines for time to initiation of postoperative radiation therapy for patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Graboyes Evan M. , Garrett‐Mayer Elizabeth , Sharma Anand K. , Lentsch Eric J. , Day Terry A.
Published: February 2017

BACKGROUND

Adherence to evidence‐based treatment guidelines has been proposed as a measure of cancer care quality. The objective of this study was to determine the rate and predictors of care that does not adhere to National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines regarding commencing postoperative radiation therapy (PORT) within 6 weeks of surgery for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

METHODS

The National Cancer Data Base was reviewed from 2006 to 2014, and patients with HNSCC who underwent curative‐intent surgery followed by PORT were identified. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with nonadherence to guidelines regarding the timing of initiating PORT.

RESULTS

In total, 47,273 patients were included in the study. 55.7% of patients (26,340/47,273) failed to commence PORT within 6 week of surgery. The percentage of patients who failed to initiate PORT within 6 week of surgery increased over time. On multivariable analysis, the factors associated with failure to initiate timely, guideline‐adherent PORT included black race, public insurance [Medicare, Medicaid] or uninsured status, lower levels of education, increased severity of comorbidity, increased postoperative length of stay, 30‐day unplanned hospital readmission, treatment at an academic medical center, and the receipt of surgery and PORT at different facilities.

CONCLUSIONS

Over 50% of patients with HNSCC who undergo surgery and PORT receive care that does not adhere to National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines with regard to initiating PORT within 6 weeks of surgery. Sociodemographic, oncologic, treatment, and hospital factors are all associated with failure to receive guideline‐directed care and should be explored in future studies. Cancer 2017;123:2651‐60. © 2017 American Cancer Society.