bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calcium‐binding protein 39 promotes hepatocellular carcinoma growth and metastasis by activating extracellular signal‐regulated kinase signaling pathway
Authors: Jiang Lingxi , Yan Qian , Fang Shuo , Liu Ming , Li Yan , Yuan Yun‐Fei , Li Yan , Zhu Yinghui , Qi Jiali , Yang Xiaodong , Kwong Dora Lai Wan , Guan Xin‐Yuan
Published: June 2017

Calcium‐binding protein (CAB39) is a key regulator of a group of sterile 20 kinases. Here, we report that CAB39 was frequently up‐regulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), which was significantly associated with tumor metastasis (P = 0.000), poorer disease‐free survival rate (P = 0.027), and poor prognosis (P = 0.000). Ectopic expression of CAB39 in immortalized human liver cell line LO2 and HCC cell lines QGY‐7703 and BEL‐7402 could increase foci formation, colony formation in soft agar, tumor formation in nude mice, and cell motility. Silencing CAB39 expression in two HCC cell lines, Huh7 and MHCC97H, with short hairpin RNA could effectively abolish its oncogenic function. Further study found that CAB39 contributed to extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) pathway activation, and mutations of the key sites of CAB39 markedly decrease the level of phosphorylated ERK. In addition, CAB39 could promote epithelial‐mesenchymal transition by up‐regulating N‐cadherin and Fibronectin and down‐regulating E‐cadherin and α‐E‐catenin. As a result, β‐catenin nuclear translocation was increased and its downstream target gene, matrix metalloproteinase‐9, was up‐regulated. Conclusion: Taken together, our findings suggested that CAB39 played very important oncogenic roles in HCC pathogenesis and progression by activating the ERK signaling pathway. Better understanding of CAB39 may lead to its clinical application as a biomarker for a prognosis predictor and a novel therapeutic target. (Hepatology 2017;66:1529–1545).
Modeling the benefits and harms of surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma: Information to support informed choices
Authors: Taylor Eleanor J. , Jones Rebecca L. , Guthrie J. Ashley , Rowe Ian A.
Published: June 2017

Surveillance by ultrasonography for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for individuals with cirrhosis is recommended. There is debate regarding the effectiveness of surveillance in reducing mortality, and there is little information on the harms available to patients considering surveillance. The aim of this study was to provide estimates of both the benefit and harms of surveillance. A Markov model was built to simulate outcomes of individuals aged 50 years with well‐compensated cirrhosis entering surveillance. Following identification of a focal lesion by ultrasound surveillance, further investigations were defined by the European Association for the Study of the Liver/European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer recall policy. Benefit and harm outcomes are expressed per 1,000 patients over 5 years. For every 1,000 patients in surveillance over 5 years, there are 13 fewer deaths (95% confidence interval [CI], 12‐14) compared with no surveillance, equating to a number needed to screen to prevent one death from HCC of 77. In comparison, many more individuals experienced harm through surveillance. For every 1,000 patients, 150 (95% CI, 146‐154) had one or more false‐positive tests equating to a number needed to harm from surveillance of 7. As a consequence of a false‐positive test, 65 individuals required at least one additional unnecessary computed tomography scan or magnetic resonance imaging and 39 required an unnecessary liver biopsy according to the recall policy. Surveillance benefits were sensitive to the incidence of HCC and the mortality benefit achieved by treatment. Harms were sensitive to the rates of false‐positive testing and the frequency of liver biopsy. Conclusion: There is a balance between the small absolute mortality benefit to surveillance for HCC and the numerically more frequent harms resulting from false‐positive testing. Implementation of the recently revised American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases recommendations is predicted to reduce harms from unnecessary liver biopsy. (Hepatology 2017;66:1546–1555).
GaudiMM: A modular multi‐objective platform for molecular modeling
Authors: Rodríguez‐Guerra Pedregal Jaime , Sciortino Giuseppe , Guasp Jordi , Municoy Martí , Maréchal Jean‐Didier
Published: June 2017

GaudiMM (for Genetic Algorithms with Unrestricted Descriptors for Intuitive Molecular Modeling) is here presented as a modular platform for rapid 3D sketching of molecular systems. It combines a Multi‐Objective Genetic Algorithm with diverse molecular descriptors to overcome the difficulty of generating candidate models for systems with scarce structural data. Its grounds consist in transforming any molecular descriptor (i.e. those generally used for analysis of data) as a guiding objective for PES explorations. The platform is written in Python with flexibility in mind: the user can choose which descriptors to use for each problem and is even encouraged to code custom ones. Illustrative cases of its potential applications are included to demonstrate the flexibility of this approach, including metal coordination of multidentate ligands, peptide folding, and protein‐ligand docking. GaudiMM is available free of charge from https://github.com/insilichem/gaudi. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
High purity fructose from inulin with heterogeneous catalysis – kinetics and modelling
Authors: Pérez Nebreda Andrea , Salmi Tapio , Murzin Dmitry Yu , Grénman Henrik
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

Inulin can be extracted from the non‐edible chicory root and high purity fructose can be obtained from hydrolysis of inulin and used as a valuable platform molecule for further valorization. Heterogeneous catalysts are sought as alternatives to mineral acids because of costly separation and severe corrosion problems. In this work, hydrolysis of inulin was performed in a batch reactor with an advanced sulfonic resin (Smopex‐101) employing HCl as a reference catalyst, at 75–95 °C and pH ranging from 1 to 2.

RESULTS

The reaction was shown to proceed predominantly via an end‐biting mechanism. The activity of the heterogeneous catalyst was on par with the reference catalyst, with the special advantage that Smopex‐101 was more selective towards monomer formation at milder reaction conditions. Mathematical modelling of the kinetics was successfully performed with a recently developed model incorporating a reaction mechanism based on an autocatalytic effect.

CONCLUSIONS

The current work demonstrates that high purity fructose can be obtained by hydrolysis of inulin employing a heterogeneous catalyst at ambient pressure. The results can be utilized directly for optimization and design purposes and they open up novel possibilities in production and process design, i.e. batch or possibly continuous operation without the need for costly separation and corrosion problems commonly encountered with homogeneous catalysts. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Connexins and pannexins: At the junction of neuro‐glial homeostasis & disease
Authors: Lapato Andrew S. , Tiwari‐Woodruff Seema K.
Published: June 2017

In the central nervous system (CNS), connexin (Cx)s and pannexin (Panx)s are an integral component of homeostatic neuronal excitability and synaptic plasticity. Neuronal Cx gap junctions form electrical synapses across biochemically similar GABAergic networks, allowing rapid and extensive inhibition in response to principle neuron excitation. Glial Cx gap junctions link astrocytes and oligodendrocytes in the pan‐glial network that is responsible for removing excitotoxic ions and metabolites. In addition, glial gap junctions help constrain excessive excitatory activity in neurons and facilitate astrocyte Ca2+ slow wave propagation. Panxs do not form gap junctions in vivo, but Panx hemichannels participate in autocrine and paracrine gliotransmission, alongside Cx hemichannels. ATP and other gliotransmitters released by Cx and Panx hemichannels maintain physiologic glutamatergic tone by strengthening synapses and mitigating aberrant high frequency bursting. Under pathological depolarizing and inflammatory conditions, gap junctions and hemichannels become dysregulated, resulting in excessive neuronal firing and seizure. In this review, we present known contributions of Cxs and Panxs to physiologic neuronal excitation and explore how the disruption of gap junctions and hemichannels lead to abnormal glutamatergic transmission, purinergic signaling, and seizures.
Comparison of partial least squares and random forests for evaluating relationship between phenolics and bioactivities of Neptunia oleracea
Authors: Lee Soo Yee , Mediani Ahmed , Maulidiani Maulidiani , Khatib Alfi , Ismail Intan Safinar , Zawawi Norhasnida , Abas Faridah
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

Neptunia oleracea is a plant consumed as a vegetable and which has been used as a folk remedy for several diseases. Herein, two regression models (partial least squares, PLS; and random forest, RF) in a metabolomics approach were compared and applied to the evaluation of the relationship between phenolics and bioactivities of N. oleracea. In addition, the effects of different extraction conditions on the phenolic constituents were assessed by pattern recognition analysis.

RESULTS

Comparison of the PLS and RF showed that RF exhibited poorer generalization and hence poorer predictive performance. Both the regression coefficient of PLS and the variable importance of RF revealed that quercetin and kaempferol derivatives, caffeic acid and vitexin‐2‐O‐rhamnoside were significant towards the tested bioactivities. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares–discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA) results showed that sonication and absolute ethanol are the preferable extraction method and ethanol ratio, respectively, to produce N. oleracea extracts with high phenolic levels and therefore high DPPH scavenging and α‐glucosidase inhibitory activities.

CONCLUSION

Both PLS and RF are useful regression models in metabolomics studies. This work provides insight into the performance of different multivariate data analysis tools and the effects of different extraction conditions on the extraction of desired phenolics from plants. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
The pancreatic cancer microenvironment: A true double agent
Authors: Melstrom Laleh G. , Salazar Marcela D. , Diamond Don J.
Published: June 2017

The tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer is a complex balance of pro‐ and anti‐tumor components. The dense desmoplasia consists of immune cells, extracellular matrix, growth factors, cytokines, and cancer associated fibroblasts (CAF) or pancreatic stellate cells (PSC). There are a multitude of targets including hyaluronan, angiogenesis, focal adhesion kinase (FAK), connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), CD40, chemokine (C‐X‐C motif) receptor 4 (CXCR‐4), immunotherapy, and Vitamin D. The developing clinical therapeutics will be reviewed.
HARNESSING THE POWER OF TERMED‐OUT NONPROFIT BOARD DIRECTORS
Authors: Baxter Robbie Kellman , Fram Eugene H.
Published: June 2017

In describing how nonprofit organizations can tap into and utilize the human capital of termed‐out board members, Baxter and Fram call on a relatively recent construct, the “membership economy” (a term coined by Baxter), in which companies and other organizations seek “long‐term formal relationships with their customers or other stakeholders instead of just anonymous transactions.” Organizations can create opportunities in areas such as research, or serving on audit committees. Also, they can form alumni groups, which have become prevalent at consulting firm McKinsey & Company, and elsewhere. “Technology is extending the infrastructure,” the authors write, “that enables current and former board members to develop trusted interpersonal relationships that should be nurtured.”.
Synthesis of Photocrosslinkable and Amine Containing Multifunctional Nanoparticles via Polymerization‐Induced Self‐Assembly
Authors: Huang Jianbing , Li Decai , Liang Hui , Lu Jiang
Published: June 2017

Photo‐crosslinkable and amine‐containing block copolymer nanoparticles are synthesized via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization‐induced self‐assembly of a multifunctional core‐forming monomer, 2‐((3‐(4‐(diethylamino)phenyl)acryloyl)oxy)ethyl methacrylate (DEMA), using poly(2‐hydroxypropyl methacrylate) macromolecular chain transfer agent as a steric stabilizer in methanol at 65 °C. By tuning the chain length of PDEMA, a range of nanoparticle morphologies (sphere, worm, and vesicle) can be obtained. Since cinnamate groups can easily undergo a [2 + 2] cycloaddition of the carbon–carbon double bonds upon UV irradiation, the as‐prepared block copolymer nanoparticles are readily stabilized by photo‐crosslinking to produce anisotropic nanoparticles. The crosslinked block copolymer nanoparticles can be used as templates for in situ formation polymer/gold hybrid nanoparticles.

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Fabrication of pH‐ and Thermoresponsive Three‐Layered Micelles via Host–Guest Interactions
Authors: Zhang Jingyan , Zhou Haiou , Liu Hao , Hu Jinming , Liu Shiyong
Published: June 2017

Well‐defined β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD)‐terminated double hydrophilic diblock copolymers (DHBCs), β‐CD‐ poly(di(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate) (PMEO2MA)‐b‐poly(2‐(diethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PDEA) (BP1) and β‐CD‐PDEA‐b‐PMEO2MA (BP2), are synthesized via sequential atom transfer radical polymerizations of di(ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate and 2‐(diethylamino)ethyl methacrylate using alkynyl‐functionalized initiator, followed by click reactions with an excess of mono‐azido‐substituted β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD‐N3). The micellization behavior of these as‐prepared DHBCs in aqueous solutions suffers from insufficient colloidal stabilities at basic pH and high temperatures (e.g., pH 9 and 45 °C), resulting in the formation of macroscopic precipitations. However, the stabilities of colloidal nanoparticles can be remarkably enhanced as a result of the convenient formation of three‐layered micelles by taking advantage of host–guest interactions of BP1/BP2 and Ad‐terminated poly(ethylene glycol). The pH‐ and thermoresponsive three‐layered micelles with enhanced stability may augur promising applications in targeted drug delivery and controlled intelligent release.

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A random walk‐based segmentation framework for 3D ultrasound images of the prostate
Authors: Ma Ling , Guo Rongrong , Tian Zhiqiang , Fei Baowei
Published: June 2017

Purpose

Accurate segmentation of the prostate on ultrasound images has many applications in prostate cancer diagnosis and therapy. Transrectal ultrasound (TRUS) has been routinely used to guide prostate biopsy. This manuscript proposes a semiautomatic segmentation method for the prostate on three‐dimensional (3D) TRUS images.

Methods

The proposed segmentation method uses a context‐classification‐based random walk algorithm. Because context information reflects patient‐specific characteristics and prostate changes in the adjacent slices, and classification information reflects population‐based prior knowledge, we combine the context and classification information at the same time in order to define the applicable population and patient‐specific knowledge so as to more accurately determine the seed points for the random walk algorithm. The method is initialized with the user drawing the prostate and non‐prostate circles on the mid‐gland slice and then automatically segments the prostate on other slices. To achieve reliable classification, we use a new adaptive k‐means algorithm to cluster the training data and train multiple decision‐tree classifiers. According to the patient‐specific characteristics, the most suitable classifier is selected and combined with the context information in order to locate the seed points. By providing accuracy locations of the seed points, the random walk algorithm improves segmentation performance.

Results

We evaluate the proposed segmentation approach on a set of 3D TRUS volumes of prostate patients. The experimental results show that our method achieved a Dice similarity coefficient of 91.0% ± 1.6% as compared to manual segmentation by clinically experienced radiologist.

Conclusions

The random walk‐based segmentation framework, which combines patient‐specific characteristics and population information, is effective for segmenting the prostate on ultrasound images. The segmentation method can have various applications in ultrasound‐guided prostate procedures.
Model‐based T1 mapping with sparsity constraints using single‐shot inversion‐recovery radial FLASH
Authors: Wang Xiaoqing , Roeloffs Volkert , Klosowski Jakob , Tan Zhengguo , Voit Dirk , Uecker Martin , Frahm Jens
Published: June 2017

Purpose

To develop a model‐based reconstruction technique for single‐shot T1 mapping with high spatial resolution, accuracy, and precision using an inversion‐recovery (IR) fast low‐angle shot (FLASH) acquisition with radial encoding.

Methods

The proposed model‐based reconstruction jointly estimates all model parameters, that is, the equilibrium magnetization, steady‐state magnetization, 1/
, and all coil sensitivities from the data of a single‐shot IR FLASH acquisition with a small golden‐angle radial trajectory. Joint sparsity constraints on the parameter maps are exploited to improve the performance of the iteratively regularized Gauss‐Newton method chosen for solving the nonlinear inverse problem. Validations include both a numerical and experimental T1 phantom, as well as in vivo studies of the human brain and liver at 3 T.

Results

In comparison to previous reconstruction methods for single‐shot T1 mapping, which are based on real‐time MRI with pixel‐wise fitting and a model‐based approach with a predetermination of coil sensitivities, the proposed method presents with improved robustness against phase errors and numerical precision in both phantom and in vivo studies.

Conclusion

The comprehensive model‐based reconstruction with L1 regularization offers rapid and robust T1 mapping with high accuracy and precision. The method warrants accelerated computing and online implementation for extended clinical trials. Magn Reson Med 79:730–740, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Decoupling of a tight‐fit transceiver phased array for human brain imaging at 9.4T: Loop overlapping rediscovered
Authors: Avdievich Nikolai I. , Giapitzakis Ioannis‐Angelos , Pfrommer Andreas , Henning Anke
Published: June 2017

Purpose

To improve the decoupling of a transceiver human head phased array at ultra‐high fields (UHF, ≥ 7T) and to optimize its transmit (Tx) and receive (Rx) performance, a single‐row eight‐element (1 × 8) tight‐fit transceiver overlapped loop array was developed and constructed. Overlapping the loops increases the RF field penetration depth but can compromise decoupling by generating substantial mutual resistance.

Methods

Based on analytical modeling, we optimized the loop geometry and relative positioning to simultaneously minimize the resistive and inductive coupling and constructed a 9.4T eight‐loop transceiver head phased array decoupled entirely by overlapping loops.

Results

We demonstrated that both the magnetic and electric coupling between adjacent loops is compensated at the same time by overlapping and nearly perfect decoupling (below ‐30 dB) can be obtained without additional decoupling strategies. Tx‐efficiency and SNR of the overlapped array outperformed that of a common UHF gapped array of similar dimensions. Parallel Rx‐performance was also not compromised due to overlapping the loops.

Conclusion

As a proof of concept we developed and constructed a 9.4T (400 MHz) overlapped transceiver head array based on results of the analytical modeling. We demonstrated that at UHF overlapping loops not only provides excellent decoupling but also improves both Tx‐ and Rx‐performance. Magn Reson Med 79:1200–1211, 2018. © 2017 International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine.
Facile fabrication and characterization of polyimide nanofiber reinforced photocured hybrid electrolyte for Li‐ion batteries
Authors: Aytan Emre , Uğur Mustafa Hulusi , Kayaman‐Apohan Nilhan
Published: June 2017

In this study, a novel ion conductive polyimide (PI) nanofiber reinforced photocured hybrid electrolyte has been fabricated. Polyimide fibers were fabricated with the reaction between 4,4′‐oxydianiline (ODA) and 3,3′,4,4′‐benzophenonetetracarboxylic dianhydride (BTDA) followed by electrospinning and thermal imidization methods. Then, PI electrospun fibers were dipped into hybrid resin formulation containing bisphenol A ethoxylate dimethacrylate (BEMA), poly (ethylene glycol) methyl ether methacrylate (PEGMA) and 3‐(methacryloyloxy) propyltrimethoxysilane (MEMO) and then photocured to prepare PI nanofiber reinforced electrolyte membrane. Photocured membranes were soaked into lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) before measuring electrochemical stability and ionic conductivity of hybrid polyelectrolyte. The chemical structure and electrochemical performance of the electrolytes were examined by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis. The incorporation of MEMO into organic matrix effectively increased the modulus from 2.83 to 5.91 MPa. The obtained results showed that a suitable electrolyte for Li‐ion batteries with high lithium uptake ratio, high conductivity (7.2 × 10−3 S cm−1) at ambient temperature and wide stability window above 5.5 V had been prepared. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A rare castration‐resistant progenitor cell population is highly enriched in Pten‐null prostate tumours
Authors: Sackmann Sala Lucila , Boutillon Florence , Menara Giulia , De Goyon‐Pélard Andréa , Leprévost Mylène , Codzamanian Julie , Lister Natalie , Pencik Jan , Clark Ashlee , Cagnard Nicolas , Bole‐Feysot Christine , Moriggl Richard , Risbridger Gail P , Taylor Renea A , Kenner Lukas , Guidotti Jacques‐Emmanuel , Goffin Vincent
Published: June 2017

Castration‐resistant prostate cancer is a lethal disease. The cell type(s) that survive androgen deprivation remain poorly described, despite global efforts to understand the various mechanisms of therapy resistance. We recently identified in wild‐type (WT) mouse prostates a rare population of luminal progenitor cells that we called LSCmed according to their FACS profile (Lin−/Sca‐1+/CD49fmed). Here, we investigated the prevalence and castration resistance of LSCmed in various mouse models of prostate tumourigenesis (Pb‐PRL, Ptenpc−/−, and Hi‐Myc mice). LSCmed prevalence is low (∼8%, similar to WT) in Hi‐Myc mice, where prostatic androgen receptor signalling is unaltered, but is significantly higher in the two other models, where androgen receptor signalling is decreased, rising up to more than 80% in Ptenpc−/− prostates. LSCmed tolerate androgen deprivation and persist or are enriched 2–3 weeks after castration. The tumour‐initiating properties of LSCmed from Ptenpc−/− mice were demonstrated by regeneration of tumours in vivo. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that LSCmed represent a unique cell entity as their gene expression profile is different from luminal and basal/stem cells, but shares markers of each. Their intrinsic androgen signalling is markedly decreased, explaining why LSCmed tolerate androgen deprivation. This also illuminates why Ptenpc−/− tumours are castration‐resistant since LSCmed represent the most prevalent cell type in this model. We validated CK4 as a specific marker for LSCmed on sorted cells and prostate tissues by immunostaining, allowing for the detection of LSCmed in various mouse prostate specimens. In castrated Ptenpc−/− prostates, there was significant proliferation of CK4+ cells, further demonstrating their key role in castration‐resistant prostate cancer progression. Taken together, this study identifies LSCmed as a probable source of prostate cancer relapse after androgen deprivation and as a new therapeutic target for the prevention of castrate‐resistant prostate cancer. Copyright © 2017 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fabrication, chemical modification, and topographical patterning of reactive gels assembled from azlactone‐functionalized polymers and a diamine
Authors: Wancura Megan M. , Anex‐Ries Quinn , Carroll Anna L. , Paola Garcia Ana , Hindocha Pooja , Buck Maren E.
Published: June 2017

The work reported here demonstrates an approach to the fabrication of chemically reactive and topographically patterned hydrogels using the azlactone‐functionalized polymer poly(2‐vinyl‐4,4'‐dimethylazlactone) (PVDMA) and the hydrophilic diamine Jeffamine®. Gels were initially assembled in DMSO but can be subsequently transferred into aqueous media to form hydrogels. Spectroscopic characterization of assembled gels demonstrated that variation in the stoichiometric ratio of azlactones to amines during gel synthesis permits control over the extent of crosslinking in the gels. Residual azlactones not consumed during crosslinking can be exploited to further functionalize these gels with hydrophobic, hydrophilic, and macromolecular amines that influence the physicochemical properties of these materials in aqueous solvents. The surface and bulk of these gels can be differentially functionalized (i.e., different functional groups on the gel surface relative to the bulk) by taking advantage of different rates of diffusion of macromolecular amines versus small molecule amines into assembled gels. Finally, these azlactone‐functionalized gels can be topographically patterned with microwell arrays using a replica molding technique and chemically modified postfabrication with amine nucleophiles. This reactive approach to the fabrication of topographically patterned and chemically functionalized hydrogels offers a straightforward method for the rapid synthesis of micropatterned scaffolds of interest in a broad range of applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 3185–3194
Synthesis and chiroptical properties of helical polyallenylferrocenes
Authors: Chai Hao , Hu Jianfeng , Shi Qi , Zhang Hao
Published: June 2017

The allylnickel‐catalyzed living coordination polymerization of allenylferrocene was compounded, two allenylferrocene derivatives (L‐1 and D‐1) bearing chiral amide pendants were designed and synthesized. The living coordination polymerization of L‐1 and D‐1 were afforded by the allynickel(II) complexes, which gave the polymer with controlled molecular weights and narrow molecular weight distribution in high yields. Three polyallenylferrocenes exhibited electrochemical properties. The helical structure was stable in the aprotic solvents observed through the circular dichroism spectra. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 2663–2669
Time‐resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy of charge transfer states in blends of pentacene and perfluoropentacene
Authors: Broch K. , Gerhard M. , Halbich M. , Lippert S. , Belova V. , Koch M. , Schreiber F.
Published: June 2017

Charge transfer states in blends of organic semiconductors have significant importance for the functioning of organic optoelectronic devices, but are also interesting from the perspective of fundamental research as many of their properties as well as their influence on the photophysics of the material are not yet completely understood. We report on a time‐resolved photoluminescence study of the photophysics of the charge transfer state in the prototypical donor–acceptor system pentacene mixed with its perfluorinated counterpart. We find indications for the existence of two distinct charge‐transfer states, one of them formed in the bulk of the mixed phase, the other one formed at the interface to phase‐separated pentacene domains. We discuss the implications of the difference in temperature dependence of the emission intensity and the lifetime observed for these charge transfer states.
Reaction mechanism of hydrogen cyanide catalyzed by gas‐phase titanium
Authors: Wang Xiaoli , Wang Yongcheng , Li Shuang , Zhang Yuwei
Published: June 2017

To explore the details of the reaction mechanism of Ti atom with HCN, the reactive site and reactivity have been predicted first, the potential energy surfaces have been systematically studied at different theoretical levels. Four different reaction pathways and product distribution are discussed by means of the activation strain model and Curtin–Hammett principle. In addition, the structures, bonding properties and the frontier molecular orbital interaction diagrams of main stationary points were analyzed by atoms in molecules and natural bond orbital. The results show that for this system, there are four reaction pathways, in which path b (HCN＋Ti→IM1→TS1→IM2→T2b→IM4) is the most favorable pathway.
Tin Sulfide‐Based Nanohybrid for High‐Performance Anode of Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Choi Jaewon , Kim Na Rae , Lim Kyungmi , Ku Kyojin , Yoon Hyeon Ji , Kang Jin Gu , Kang Kisuk , Braun Paul V. , Jin Hyoung‐Joon , Yun Young Soo
Published: June 2017

Nanohybrid anode materials for Na‐ion batteries (NIBs) based on conversion and/or alloying reactions can provide significantly improved energy and power characteristics, while suffering from low Coulombic efficiency and unfavorable voltage properties. An NIB paper‐type nanohybrid anode (PNA) based on tin sulfide nanoparticles and acid‐treated multiwalled carbon nanotubes is reported. In 1 m NaPF6 dissolved in diethylene glycol dimethyl ether as an electrolyte, the above PNA shows a high reversible capacity of ≈1200 mAh g−1 and a large voltage plateau corresponding to a capacity of ≈550 mAh g−1 in the low‐voltage region of ≈0.1 V versus Na+/Na, exhibiting high rate capabilities at a current rate of 1 A g−1 and good cycling performance over 250 cycles. In addition, the PNA exhibits a high first Coulombic efficiency of ≈90%, achieving values above 99% during subsequent cycles. Furthermore, the feasibility of PNA usage is demonstrated by full‐cell tests with a reported cathode, which results in high specific energy and power values of ≈256 Wh kg−1 and 471 W kg−1, respectively, with stable cycling.
Unveiling Molecular Changes in Water by Small Luminescent Nanoparticles
Authors: Labrador‐Páez Lucía , Jovanović Dragana J. , Marqués Manuel I. , Smits Krisjanis , Dolić Slobodan D. , Jaque Francisco , Stanley Harry Eugene , Dramićanin Miroslav D. , García‐Solé José , Haro‐González Patricia , Jaque Daniel
Published: June 2017

Nowadays a large variety of applications are based on solid nanoparticles dispersed in liquids—so called nanofluids. The interaction between the fluid and the nanoparticles plays a decisive role in the physical properties of the nanofluid. A novel approach based on the nonradiative energy transfer between two small luminescent nanocrystals (GdVO4:Nd3+ and GdVO4:Yb3+) dispersed in water is used in this work to investigate how temperature affects both the processes of interaction between nanoparticles and the effect of the fluid on the nanoparticles. From a systematic analysis of the effect of temperature on the GdVO4:Nd3+ → GdVO4:Yb3+ interparticle energy transfer, it can be concluded that a dramatic increase in the energy transfer efficiency occurs for temperatures above 45 °C. This change is properly explained by taking into account a crossover existing in diverse water properties that occurs at about this temperature. The obtained results allow elucidation on the molecular arrangement of water molecules below and above this crossover temperature. In addition, it is observed that an energy transfer process is produced as a result of interparticle collisions that induce irreversible ion exchange between the interacting nanoparticles.
A Toolbox for Lithium–Sulfur Battery Research: Methods and Protocols
Authors: Zhang Ge , Zhang Ze‐Wen , Peng Hong‐Jie , Huang Jia‐Qi , Zhang Qiang
Published: June 2017

Favorable characteristics, such as high energy density, cost efficiency, and environmental benignity, render lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries a promising candidate to meet the increasing demand for efficient and economic energy‐storage systems. Many efforts have been devoted to and much progress has been achieved in Li–S‐battery research from both the scientific and technological viewpoints. Various tools, methods, and protocols have been developed for Li–S‐battery research. Here, these advancements are summarized, from spectroscopic to electrochemical techniques, and the landscape of Li–S chemistry is painted from reactions to transport phenomena. The aim is to provide a comprehensive toolbox for Li–S‐battery research and spur future development in multi‐electron chemistry, multiphase conversion, and related energy‐storage systems and fields.
How Will I Know What My Students Need? Preparing Preservice Teachers to Use Running Records to Make Instructional Decisions
Authors: Gillett Erin , Ellingson Susan Pierson
Published: June 2017

Effective teachers use assessment data to make instructional decisions. One of the most informative techniques to assess young learners’ reading progress in the primary grades is the running record. Running records provide concrete evidence of students’ skills, reading levels, strategies, and progress as readers. The data gathered help teachers identify readers’ current strengths, needs, and reading levels. Frequent consideration of assessment data allows teachers to make up‐to‐the‐minute evidence‐based instructional decisions for their students. How do preservice teachers learn to take, score, and analyze running records to inform their literacy instruction? This article describes two approaches used by teacher educators to equip preservice elementary teachers with beginning proficiency in using running records to determine next steps of reading instruction for young students. The authors also provide novice teacher educators with insight into how they might incorporate running records instruction into their assessment or methods coursework, and they suggest resources to guide follow‐up instruction.
Persistent Inequalities in Health and Access to Health Services: Evidence From New York City
Authors: Gusmano Michael K. , Rodwin Victor G. , Weisz Daniel
Published: June 2017

In Manhattan, the rate of hospital discharges for avoidable hospital conditions (AHC), a measure of access to timely and effective ambulatory care, fell by nearly 50 percent between 1999 and 2013. Despite this remarkable improvement, there has been virtually no change in racial, ethnic, or neighborhood‐level differences in rates of AHC. This is surprising given New York City's emphasis on public health and its efforts to reduce health and health‐care inequalities. We discuss the policy implications of these findings and argue that growing income and wealth inequalities have limited the ability of New York City to address inequalities in population health and health‐care access. Unless there are substantial changes in federal and state policy, designed to reduce economic inequalities, it will be difficult to achieve the goal of eliminating health and health‐care inequalities.
Sexual Assault in the U.S. Military: Trends and Responses
Authors: Rough Jill A. , Armor David J.
Published: June 2017

Sexual assault is without doubt one of the most pressing issues confronting the U.S military today. The Department of Defense (DoD) acknowledges that sexual assault is a crime “incompatible with military service” and seeks to establish an environment where sexual assault is not tolerated, condoned, or ignored. Yet questions persist over exactly how much progress DoD has made toward this goal. This paper reviews trends in the prevalence of sexual assault within the U.S. military, assesses how rates of sexual assault in the military compare to civilian rates, and then examines what the military has done to confront the problem and how it might improve such efforts.
Syrian Refugee Women's Health in Lebanon, Turkey, and Jordan and Recommendations for Improved Practice
Authors: Samari Goleen
Published: June 2017

Since 2011, over four million Syrian refugees have fled to neighboring countries of Lebanon, Turkey, and Jordan. Seventy‐five percent of Syrian refugees are women and children. In times of conflict, women's health disproportionately suffers. Based on an assessment of academic literature and international policy and development reports, this study explores the vulnerabilities of Syrian women and girls in Lebanon, Turkey, and Jordan, and how these countries approach Syrian refugee women's health care. In all settings, sexual and gender‐based violence, reduced use of modern contraceptives, menstrual irregularity, unplanned pregnancies, preterm birth, and infant morbidity are ongoing issues. Recommendations for improved practice include taking a multilevel approach to eliminate social and service delivery barriers that prevent access to care, conducting thorough needs assessments, and creating policy and programmatic solutions that establish long‐term care for Syrian refugee women.
Relationship Between Expression of Proteins ERCC1, ERCC2, and XRCC1 and Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Rectal Cancer Treated with FOLFOX‐Based Preoperative Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Huang Ming‐Yii , Huang Joh‐Jong , Huang Chun‐Ming , Lin Chih‐Hung , Tsai Hsiang‐Lin , Huang Ching‐Wen , Chai Chee‐Yin , Lin Chia‐Yang , Wang Jaw‐Yuan
Published: June 2017

Background

Platinum resistance enhances DNA damage repair through nucleotide excision repair mechanisms involving the excision repair cross‐complementing group 1 (ERCC1), X‐ray cross‐complementing group 1 (XRCC1), and excision repair cross‐complementing group 2 (ERCC2). We evaluated the correlation between the expression of these three DNA repair genes and clinical outcomes in patients with rectal cancer receiving FOLFOX‐based preoperative chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

Methods

Using immunohistochemistry, we examined the expression of ERCC1, ERCC2, and XRCC1 in pre‐CRT cancer tissues from 86 patients with rectal cancer who had undergone curative resection and preoperative CRT with FOLFOX‐4 to identify potential predictors of clinical outcomes.

Results

Following CRT, 57 and 29 patients were classified as responders (pathological tumor regression grade TRG 0 and TRG 1) and poor responders (TRG 2 and TRG 3), respectively. The multivariate analysis revealed that ERCC1 overexpression was correlated with a poor CRT response [p < 0.0001; odds ratio (OR), 9.397; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.721–32.457]. Furthermore, a poor response to CRT (pathological TRG of 2–3) (p = 0.18; OR 5.685; 95% CI 1.349–23.954) and abnormal pre‐CRT serum carcinoembryonic antigen levels (>5 ng/mL) (p = 0.03; OR 6.288; 95% CI 1.198–33.006) were independent predictors of postoperative relapse. By contrast, ERCC2 and XRCC1 expression did not play predictive roles in the analyzed patients.

Conclusions

ERCC1 overexpression is associated with a poor preoperative CRT response in patients with rectal cancer receiving FOLFOX‐based preoperative CRT. ERCC1 is a potential biomarker for identifying patients who can benefit from customized treatment programs.
Safety of Anticoagulation Interruption in Patients Undergoing Surgery or Invasive Procedures: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analyses of Randomized Controlled Trials and Non‐randomized Studies
Authors: Hovaguimian Frédérique , Köppel Sabrina , Spahn Donat R.
Published: June 2017

Background

The safety of anticoagulation interruption in patients requiring surgical or invasive procedures remains unclear. We thus performed a systematic review and meta‐analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non‐randomized studies (NRS).

Methods

MEDLINE, Embase and Central databases were searched to March 2017 without date or language restrictions. We considered RCTs and NRS comparing anticoagulation interruption with any anticoagulation (continuation or heparin bridging) in adult surgical patients taking oral anticoagulation. Data were independently extracted. The quality of the evidence was assessed following recommendations from the Cochrane collaboration (GRADE approach). Risk ratios were calculated for 30‐day events: thromboembolic (TE) events, major bleeding and mortality. Additional analyses explored the effects of different anticoagulation strategies.

Results

Twelve reports were included: 4 RCTs (2190 participants) and 8 NRS (18993 participants). Trials included mostly participants with atrial fibrillation. Interrupting anticoagulation did not seem to increase TE events (RR 0.65, 95% CI [0.33, 1.30]—4 studies, 2190 participants) and resulted in less bleeding (RR 0.41, 95% CI [0.22, 0.78]—3 studies, 2126 participants) compared to anticoagulation continuation or heparin bridging. The GRADE assessment was moderate. Similar results were found in non‐randomized studies, but the quality of the evidence was low. Possible strategy‐specific effects were identified: forgoing heparin bridging seemed beneficial, but these effects were less clear with other strategies.

Conclusion

Interrupting anticoagulation in patients requiring invasive procedures did not seem to result in harm and protected against major bleeding. Uncertainty remains regarding the safety of this strategy in indications other than atrial fibrillation and in moderate‐ to high‐risk surgery.

Study registration

http://www.en.anaesthesie.usz.ch/research/Pages/Study‐protocols.aspx
Incidence and Risk Factors for Postoperative Delirium in Patients After Hepatectomy
Authors: Park Sung Ae , Tomimaru Yoshito , Shibata Asuka , Miyagawa Shinichi , Noguchi Kozo , Dono Keizo
Published: June 2017

Backgrounds

Postoperative delirium is a common complication after surgery. However, the incidence and risk factors associated with delirium after liver resection have not been clarified. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the incidence and risk factors for delirium in patients that underwent liver resections.

Methods

This study included 196 consecutive patients that underwent a liver resection. Groups with and without delirium were compared to identify differential patient characteristics. Multivariate regression analysis was used to identify independent factors that significantly influenced the development of postoperative delirium.

Results

Postoperative delirium developed in 44 (22.4%) of the 196 patients. Majority of incidents occurred on postoperative day 2, and mean duration was 4.2 ± 5.5 days. Patients with delirium exhibited the following features: advanced age, low serum albumin levels, a high probability of a positive test for anti‐hepatitis C virus antibody, cerebrovascular disorders, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, use of benzodiazepines, and previous history of delirium. Multivariate analysis revealed that the delirium development was significantly correlated with age, serum albumin level, presence of cerebrovascular disorder, use of benzodiazepines, and a previous history of delirium.

Conclusions

This study clarified the incidence and risk factors for delirium after liver resection. These results would contribute to prediction and treatment of delirium.
Quality of Recovery After Low‐Pressure Laparoscopic Donor Nephrectomy Facilitated by Deep Neuromuscular Blockade: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Özdemir‐van Brunschot Denise M. D. , Scheffer Gert J. , van der Jagt Michel , Langenhuijsen Hans , Dahan Albert , Mulder Janneke E. E. A. , Willems Simone , Hilbrands Luuk B. , Donders Rogier , van Laarhoven Cees J. H. M. , d’Ancona Frank A. , Warlé Michiel C.
Published: June 2017

Background

The use of low intra‐abdominal pressure (<10 mmHg) reduces postoperative pain scores after laparoscopic surgery.

Objective

To investigate whether low‐pressure pneumoperitoneum with deep neuromuscular blockade improves the quality of recovery after laparoscopic donor nephrectomy (LDN).

Design, setting and participants

In a single‐center randomized controlled trial, 64 live kidney donors were randomly assigned to 6 or 12 mmHg insufflation pressure. A deep neuromuscular block was used in both groups. Surgical conditions were rated by the five‐point Leiden‐surgical rating scale (L‐SRS), ranging from 5 (optimal) to 1 (extremely poor) conditions. If the L‐SRS was insufficient, the pressure was increased stepwise.

Main outcome measure

The primary outcome measure was the overall score on the quality of recovery‐40 (QOR‐40) questionnaire at postoperative day 1.

Results

The difference in the QOR‐40 scores on day 1 between the low‐ and standard‐pressure group was not significant (p =. 06). Also the overall pain scores and analgesic consumption did not differ. Eight procedures (24%), initially started with low pressure, were converted to a standard pressure (≥10 mmHg). A L‐SRS score of 5 was significantly more prevalent in the standard pressure as compared to the low‐pressure group at 30 min after insufflation (p <. 01).

Conclusions

Low‐pressure pneumoperitoneum facilitated by deep neuromuscular blockade during LDN does not reduce postoperative pain scores nor improve the quality of recovery in the early postoperative phase. The question whether the use of deep neuromuscular blockade during laparoscopic surgery reduces postoperative pain scores independent of the intra‐abdominal pressure should be pursued in future studies.

Trial registration

The trial was registered at clinicaltrial.gov before the start of the trial (NCT02146417).
The Benefits of a Wound Protector in Preventing Incisional Surgical Site Infection in Elective Open Digestive Surgery: A Large‐Scale Cohort Study
Authors: Itatsu Keita , Yokoyama Yukihiro , Sugawara Gen , Kamiya Satoaki , Terasaki Masaki , Morioka Atsushi , Iyomasa Shinsuke , Shirai Kazuhisa , Ando Masahiko , Nagino Masato
Published: June 2017

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate the benefits of wound protectors (WPs) in preventing incisional surgical site infection (I‐SSI) in open elective digestive surgery using data from a large‐scale, multi‐institutional cohort study.

Methods

Patients who had elective digestive surgery for malignant neoplasms between November 2009 and February 2011 were included. The protective value of WPs against I‐SSI was evaluated.

Results

A total of 3201 patients were analyzed. A WP was used in 1022 patients (32%). The incident rate of I‐SSI (not including organ/space SSI) was 9%. In the univariate and the multivariate analyses for perioperative risk factors for I‐SSI, the use of WP was an independent favorable factor that reduced the incidence of I‐SSI (odds ratio 0.73, 95% confidence interval 0.55–0.98. P = 0.038). The subgroup forest plot analyses revealed that WP reduced the risk of I‐SSI only in patients aged 74 years or younger, males, non‐obese patients (body mass index <25 kg/m2), patients with an American Society of Anesthesiologists score of 1/2, patients with a previous history of laparotomy, non‐smokers, and patients who underwent colon and rectum operations. In patients who underwent colorectal surgery, the postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in patients with WP than those without WP (median 13 vs. 15 days, P = 0.040). In terms of the depth of SSI, WP only prevented superficial I‐SSI and did not reduce the incidence of deep I‐SSI.

Conclusions

WP is a useful device for preventing superficial I‐SSI in open elective digestive surgery.

Trial registration number

UMIN000004723.