bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single‐agent ibrutinib versus chemoimmunotherapy regimens for treatment‐naïve patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia: A cross‐trial comparison of phase 3 studies
Authors: Robak Tadeusz , Burger Jan A. , Tedeschi Alessandra , Barr Paul M. , Owen Carolyn , Bairey Osnat , Hillmen Peter , Simpson David , Grosicki Sebastian , Devereux Stephen , McCarthy Helen , Coutre Steven E. , Quach Hang , Gaidano Gianluca , Maslyak Zvenyslava , Stevens Don A. , Moreno Carol , Gill Devinder S. , Flinn Ian W. , Gribben John G. , Mokatrin Ahmad , Cheng Mei , Styles Lori , James Danelle F. , Kipps Thomas J. , Ghia Paolo
Published: August 2018

Chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) and targeted therapy with single‐agent ibrutinib are both recommended first‐line treatments for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), although their outcomes have not been directly compared. Using ibrutinib data from the RESONATE‐2 (PCYC‐1115/1116) study conducted in patients ≥65 years without del(17p), we performed a cross‐trial comparison with CIT data from published phase 3 studies in first‐line treatment of CLL. Progression‐free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and safety data for ibrutinib (median follow‐up 35.7 months) were evaluated alongside available CIT data. CIT regimens included: fludarabine + cyclophosphamide + rituximab (CLL8, CLL10), bendamustine + rituximab (CLL10), obinutuzumab + chlorambucil and rituximab + chlorambucil (CLL11), and ofatumumab + chlorambucil (COMPLEMENT‐1). Median age across studies was 61‐74 years, with older populations receiving ibrutinib, obinutuzumab + chlorambucil, or rituximab + chlorambucil. Median follow‐up varied across studies/regimens (range 14.5‐37.4 months). Among all patients, PFS appeared longer with ibrutinib relative to CIT and OS appeared comparable. Relative to CIT studies that similarly excluded patients with del(17p) (CLL10) or enrolled older/less‐fit patients (CLL11), PFS appeared favorable for ibrutinib in high‐risk subgroups, including advanced disease, bulky lymph nodes, unmutated IGHV status, and presence of del(11q). Grade ≥ 3 infections ranged from 9% (ofatumumab + chlorambucil) to 40% (fludarabine + cyclophosphamide + rituximab), and was 25% with ibrutinib. Grade ≥ 3 neutropenia was 12% for ibrutinib and 26%‐84% for CIT. Although definitive conclusions cannot be made due to inherent limitations of cross‐trial comparisons, this report suggests that ibrutinib has a favorable benefit/risk profile and may potentially eliminate the need for chemotherapy in some patients. Randomized, comparative studies are needed to support these findings.
Outcomes of front‐line ibrutinib treated CLL patients excluded from landmark clinical trial
Authors: Mato Anthony R. , Roeker Lindsey E. , Allan John N. , Pagel John M. , Brander Danielle M. , Hill Brian T. , Cheson Bruce D. , Furman Richard R. , Lamanna Nicole , Tam Constantine S. , Handunnetti Sasanka , Jacobs Ryan , Lansigan Frederick , Bhavsar Erica , Barr Paul M. , Shadman Mazyar , Skarbnik Alan P. , Goy Andre , Beach Douglas F. , Svoboda Jakub , Pu Jeffrey J. , Sehgal Alison R. , Zent Clive S. , Tuncer Hande H. , Schuster Stephen J. , Pickens Peter V. , Shah Nirav N. , Rhodes Joanna , Ujjani Chaitra S. , Nabhan Chadi
Published: August 2018

Ibrutinib demonstrated superior response rates and survival for treatment‐naïve chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients in a pivotal study that excluded patients younger than 65 (<65) and/or with chromosome 17p13 deletion (del[17p13]). We examined outcomes and toxicities of CLL patients who would have been excluded from the pivotal study, specifically <65 and/or those with del[17p13]. This multicenter, retrospective cohort study examined CLL patients treated with front‐line ibrutinib at 20 community and academic centers, categorizing them based on key inclusion criteria for the RESONATE‐2 trial: <65 vs ≥65 and present vs absent del[17p13]. Of 391 included patients, 57% would have been excluded from the pivotal study. Forty‐one percent of our cohort was <65, and 30% had del(17p13). Patients <65 were more likely to start 420 mg of ibrutinib daily; those who started at reduced doses had inferior PFS. The most common adverse events were arthralgias, fatigue, rash, bruising, and diarrhea. Twenty‐four percent discontinued ibrutinib at 13.8 months median follow‐up; toxicity was the most common reason for discontinuation, though progression and/or transformation accounted for a larger proportion of discontinuations in <65 and those with del(17p13). Response rates were similar for <65 and those with del(17p13). However, patients with del(17p13) had inferior PFS and OS. Ibrutinib in the front‐line setting has extended beyond the population in which it was initially studied and approved. This study highlights and compares important differences in ibrutinib dosing, treatment interruptions, toxicities, reasons for discontinuation, and survival outcomes in two important patient populations not studied in RESONATE‐2.
Relationship between fat distribution and cardiometabolic risk in Hispanic girls
Authors: Hetherington‐Rauth Megan , Bea Jennifer W. , Lee Vinson R. , Blew Robert M. , Funk Janet L. , Lohman Timothy G. , Going Scott B.
Published: August 2018

Objective

In adults, certain body fat depots have greater impact on cardiometabolic risk than total adiposity. Whether similar relationships exist in children is uncertain. The aim of this study was to examine the relationships among dual x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) measures of body fat distribution and total body adiposity with cardiometabolic risk factors in Hispanic girls.

Methods

Measures of total percent body fat, percent of total fat within the android, gynoid, leg, and trunk regions, and cardiometabolic biomarkers (insulin, glucose, homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), triglycerides (TG), low and high lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C, HDL‐C)) were obtained from 232 Hispanic girls (age 10.7 ±1.1 years). Regression models for each metabolic parameter were run against adiposity measures. Partial correlations of the adiposity measures were used to compare associations between adiposity measures and the cardiometabolic risk factors, controlling for somatic maturation.

Results

Total and regional adiposity were significantly related with cardiometabolic risk factors (P < 0.05) except fasting glucose. The partial correlations of total and regional adiposity measures with each cardiometabolic biomarker were similar. More variance was explained for insulin and the HOMA‐IR (33%‐43%) than other risk factors. Partial correlations for the percentage of total fat in the gynoid and leg regions with insulin, HOMA‐IR, TG, and LDL‐C were negative, and positive with HDL‐C.

Conclusion

Measures of total and regional fat perform similarly in predicting cardiometabolic risk in Hispanic girls. A higher proportion of fat distributed in the gynoid or leg region is associated with lower cardiometabolic risk.
The relationship of maximal oxygen consumption to bone mineral density in Iranian young women
Authors: Arazi Hamid , Eghbali Ehsan
Published: August 2018

Objective

The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) and bone mineral density (BMD) in Iranian young women.

Methods

Iranian young women (n = 127), aged 24–36 years, participated in this study. Body weight and height were measured, and body mass index was calculated. VO2max was determined by the Rackport test. In addition, blood levels of calcium and 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) were evaluated, and a dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry device was used to measure BMD in the lumbar spine (LS) and femoral neck (FN).

Results

Results showed a significant relationship between VO2max with LS and FN BMDs (LS: r = .50 and .59, respectively). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that higher levels of VO2max predicted higher BMD LS and FN.

Conclusion

Based on the results, the researchers concluded that VO2max is a useful indirect marker for BMD in young women. Also, it seems that VO2max may be able to predict the potential for osteoporosis in Iranian young women.
Copper Catalysts Unleashing the Potential for Hydrogenation of Carbon−Oxygen Bonds
Authors: Watari Ryo , Kayaki Yoshihito
Published: August 2018

The catalytic hydrogenation of carbon−oxygen bonds by copper‐based catalysts has made significant progress in the past decade. Broad carbonyl compounds, such as aldehydes, ketones, carboxylic acids and their derivatives, and CO2 have been subjected to heterogeneous and homogeneous catalytic systems. Although heterogeneous copper catalysts have been used in established industrial hydrogenation processes, recent catalyst design focusing on (i) novel supports, (ii) controlled nanostructure of copper species, and (iii) bimetallic active site in combination with copper have improved the productivity of the desired reduction products. With regard to homogeneous catalysts, phosphine‐coordinated copper complexes have been utilized in chemo‐ and enantioselective hydrogenation. In addition to the phosphorus ligand effect, several sp2‐nitrogen bases have recently been explored as beneficial promoters of CO2 hydrogenation.
Endochondral growth disruption during vitamin D deficiency rickets in a mid‐19th century series from Bethnal Green, London, UK
Authors: Ives Rachel , Humphrey Louise
Published: August 2018

Objectives

Vitamin D affects many aspects of cartilage and skeletal development. Inconsistent findings currently exist regarding the impact of vitamin D deficiency on childhood growth. This study aims to evaluate the impact of vitamin D deficiency on childhood skeletal development by exploring long bone growth in children with healed and active rickets.

Materials and methods

Forty‐four known‐age children (2 months to 12 years) with rickets and 99 without rickets were compared with modern reference data from North America. Diaphyseal lengths of children with active rickets (34.1%, 15/44), healed rickets (65.9%, 29/44), and without rickets (99/143, 69.2%) were expressed as a percentage of expected length and an average percentage value was calculated across all available long bones.

Results

Combined data for all six long bones revealed that children with active rickets had achieved only 75.3% of their expected size whereas, on average, children with healed rickets had achieved 81.6% of their expected size. On average, children without skeletal evidence of rickets had achieved 83.7% of their expected size. Children with severe skeletal manifestations of active rickets had a lower average percentage of expected size (70.4%) than the remainder of children affected by the condition.

Discussion

Pronounced growth faltering existed in children with active rickets and affected the upper and lower limb, indicating systemic growth failures during the deficiency. Poor maternal health, early weaning and inadequate infant feeding, and lack of sunlight exposure likely contributed to the development of rickets. Complex interactions between pathological conditions, nutritional deficiencies and vitamin D deficiency may have exacerbated growth impacts.
Gold‐Catalyzed Formal Dehydro‐Diels–Alder Reactions of Ene‐Ynamide Derivatives Bearing Terminal Alkyne Chains: Scope and Mechanistic Studies
Authors: Zhao Qing , León Rayo David Fabian , Campeau Dominic , Daenen Martin , Gagosz Fabien
Published: August 2018

A new protocol for the synthesis of a variety of N‐containing aromatic heterocycles by a formal gold‐catalyzed dehydro‐Diels–Alder reaction of ynamide derivatives has been developed. Deuterium‐labeling experiments and kinetic studies support the involvement of a dual gold catalysis mechanism in which a gold acetylide moiety adds onto an aurated keteneiminium.
CO2 Overall Splitting by a Bifunctional Metal‐Free Electrocatalyst
Authors: Ghausi Muhammad Arsalan , Xie Jiafang , Li Qiaohong , Wang Xueyuan , Yang Rui , Wu Maoxiang , Wang Yaobing , Dai Liming
Published: August 2018

Photo/electrochemical CO2 splitting is impeded by the low cost‐effective catalysts for key reactions: CO2 reduction (CDRR) and water oxidation. A porous silicon and nitrogen co‐doped carbon (SiNC) nanomaterial by a facile pyrolyzation was developed as a metal‐free bifunctional electrocatalyst. CO2‐to‐CO and oxygen evolution (OER) partial current density under neutral conditions were enhanced by two orders of magnitude in the Tafel regime on SiNC relative to single‐doped comparisons beyond their specific area gap. The photovoltaic‐driven CO2 splitting device with SiNC electrodes imitating photosynthesis yielded an overall solar‐to‐chemical efficiency of advanced 12.5 % (by multiplying energy efficiency of CO2 splitting cell and photovoltaic device) at only 650 mV overpotential. Mechanism studies suggested the elastic electron structure of −Si(O)−C−N− unit in SiNC as the highly active site for CDRR and OER simultaneously by lowering the free energy of CDRR and OER intermediates adsorption.
Photocorrosion of Cuprous Oxide in Hydrogen Production: Rationalising Self‐Oxidation or Self‐Reduction
Authors: Toe Cui Ying , Zheng Zhaoke , Wu Hao , Scott Jason , Amal Rose , Ng Yun Hau
Published: August 2018

Cuprous Oxide (Cu2O) is a photocatalyst with severe photocorrosion issues. Theoretically, it can undergo both self‐oxidation (to form copper oxide (CuO)) and self‐reduction (to form metallic copper (Cu)) upon illumination with the aid of photoexcited charges. There is, however, limited experimental understanding of the “dominant” photocorrosion pathway. Both photocorrosion modes can be regulated by tailoring the conditions of the photocatalytic reactions. Photooxidation of Cu2O (in the form of a suspension system), accompanied by corroded morphology, is kinetically favourable and is the prevailing deactivation pathway. With knowledge of the dominant deactivation mode of Cu2O, suppression of self‐photooxidation together with enhancement in its overall photocatalytic performance can be achieved after a careful selection of sacrificial hole (h+) scavenger. In this way, stable hydrogen (H2) production can be attained without the need for deposition of secondary components.
Catalytic Asymmetric [4+2]‐Cycloadditions Using Tropolones: Developments, Scope, Transformations, and Bioactivity
Authors: Hammer Niels , Erickson Jeremy D. , Lauridsen Vibeke H. , Jakobsen Joakim B. , Hansen Bente K. , Jacobsen Kristian M. , Poulsen Thomas B. , Jørgensen Karl Anker
Published: August 2018

An organocatalyzed asymmetric [4+2]‐cycloaddition between tropolones and electron‐deficient dienophiles is presented. Complex and biologically interesting dihydrohomobarrelenone scaffolds are formed through a Diels–Alder reaction utilizing bifunctional Brønsted‐base catalysis, affording the corresponding bridged bicyclic cycloadducts in up to quantitative yields with good enantio‐ (up to 92 % ee) and diastereoselectivity (up to >20:1 d.r.). The synthetic value of the obtained products is explored by downstream transformations, including photoisomerizations, and their biological relevancy by in vivo testing in MCF‐7 cancer cells.
Selective Encapsulation of Disaccharide Xylobiose by an Aromatic Foldamer Helical Capsule
Authors: Saha Subrata , Kauffmann Brice , Ferrand Yann , Huc Ivan
Published: August 2018

Xylobiose sequestration in a helical aromatic oligoamide capsule was evidenced by circular dichroism, NMR spectroscopy, and crystallography. The preparation of the 5 kDa oligoamide sequence was made possible by the transient use of acid‐labile dimethoxybenzyl tertiary amide substituents that disrupt helical folding and prevent double helix formation. Binding of other disaccharides was not detected. Crystallographic data revealed a complex composed of a d‐xylobiose α anomer and two water molecules accommodated in the right‐handed helix. The disaccharide was found to adopt an unusual all‐axial compact conformation. A dense network of 18 hydrogen bonds forms between the guest, the cavity wall, and the two water molecules.
Electron‐Affinity‐Triggered Variations on the Optical and Electrical Properties of Dye Molecules Enabling Highly Efficient Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Yuhang , Cao Yiming , Zhang Weiwei , Stojanovic Marko , Dar M. Ibrahim , Péchy Péter , Saygili Yasemin , Hagfeldt Anders , Zakeeruddin Shaik Mohammed , Grätzel Michael
Published: August 2018

The synthesis, characterization, and photovoltaic performance of a series of indacenodithiophene (IDT)‐based D‐π‐A organic dyes with varying electron‐accepting units is presented. By control of the electron affinity, perfectly matching energy levels were achieved with a copper(I/II)‐based redox electrolyte, reaching a high open‐circuit voltage (>1.1 V) while harvesting a large fraction of solar photons at the same time. Besides achieving high power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSCs), that is, 11.2 % under standard AM 1.5 G sunlight, and 28.4 % under a 1000 lux fluorescent light tube, this work provides a possible method for the design and fabrication of low‐cost highly efficient DSCs.
Merging Photoredox and Organometallic Catalysts in a Metal–Organic Framework Significantly Boosts Photocatalytic Activities
Authors: Zhu Yuan‐Yuan , Lan Guangxu , Fan Yingjie , Veroneau Samuel S. , Song Yang , Micheroni Daniel , Lin Wenbin
Published: August 2018

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been extensively used for single‐site catalysis and light harvesting, but their application in multicomponent photocatalysis is unexplored. We report here the successful incorporation of an IrIII photoredox catalyst and a NiII cross‐coupling catalyst into a stable Zr12 MOF, Zr12‐Ir‐Ni, to efficiently catalyze C−S bond formation between various aryl iodides and thiols. The proximity of the IrIII and NiII catalytic components to each other (ca. 0.6 nm) in Zr12‐Ir‐Ni greatly facilitates electron and thiol radical transfers from Ir to Ni centers to reach a turnover number of 38 500, an order of magnitude higher than that of its homogeneous counterpart. This work highlights the opportunity in merging photoredox and organometallic catalysts in MOFs to effect challenging organic transformations.
Infinite Assembly of Folded Proteins in Evolution, Disease, and Engineering
Authors: Garcia‐Seisdedos Hector , Villegas José A. , Levy Emmanuel D.
Published: August 2018

Mutations and changes in a protein's environment are well known for their potential to induce misfolding and aggregation, including amyloid formation. Alternatively, such perturbations can trigger new interactions that lead to the polymerization of folded proteins. In contrast to aggregation, this process does not require misfolding and, to highlight this difference, we refer to it as agglomeration. This term encompasses the amorphous assembly of folded proteins as well as the polymerization in one, two, or three dimensions. We stress the remarkable potential of symmetric homo‐oligomers to agglomerate even by single surface point mutations, and we review the double‐edged nature of this potential: how aberrant assemblies resulting from agglomeration can lead to disease, but also how agglomeration can serve in cellular adaptation and be exploited for the rational design of novel biomaterials.
Realization of an Al≡Al Triple Bond in the Gas‐Phase Na3Al2− Cluster via Double Electronic Transmutation
Authors: Zhang Xinxing , Popov Ivan A. , Lundell Katie A. , Wang Haopeng , Mu Chaonan , Wang Wei , Schnöckel Hansgeorg , Boldyrev Alexander I. , Bowen Kit H.
Published: August 2018

The discovery of homodinuclear multiple bonds composed of Group 13 elements represents one of the most challenging frontiers in modern chemistry. A classical triple bond such as N≡N and HC≡CH contains one σ bond and two π bonds constructed from the p orbitals perpendicular to the σ bond. However, the traditional textbook triple bond between two Al atoms has remained elusive. Here we report an Al≡Al triple bond in the designer Na3Al2− cluster predicted in silico, which was subsequently generated by pulsed arc discharge followed by mass spectrometry and photoelectron spectroscopy characterizations. Being effectively Al2− due to the electron donation from Na, the Al atoms in Na3Al2− undergo a double electronic transmutation into Group 15 elements, thus the Al2−≡Al2− kernel mimics the P≡P and N≡N molecules. We anticipate this work will stimulate more endeavors in discovering materials using Al2−≡Al2− as a building block in the gas phase and in the solid state.
Ir‐SpinPHOX Catalyzed Enantioselective Hydrogenation of 3‐Ylidenephthalides
Authors: Ge Yao , Han Zhaobin , Wang Zheng , Feng Chen‐Guo , Zhao Qian , Lin Guo‐Qiang , Ding Kuiling
Published: August 2018

The first asymmetric hydrogenation of 3‐ylidenephthalides has been developed using the IrI complex of a spiro[4,4]‐1,6‐nonadiene‐based phosphine‐oxazoline ligand (SpinPHOX) as the catalyst, affording a wide variety of chiral 3‐substituted phthalides in excellent enantiomeric excesses (up to 98 % ee). The utility of the protocol has been demonstrated in the asymmetric synthesis of chiral drugs NBP and BZP precursor, as well as the natural products chuangxinol and typhaphthalide.
Theory Meets Experiment for Noncovalent Complexes: The Puzzling Case of Pnicogen Interactions
Authors: Li Weixing , Spada Lorenzo , Tasinato Nicola , Rampino Sergio , Evangelisti Luca , Gualandi Andrea , Cozzi Pier Giorgio , Melandri Sonia , Barone Vincenzo , Puzzarini Cristina
Published: August 2018

A gas‐phase nitrogen–nitrogen noncovalent interaction has been unveiled in the nitroethane–trimethylamine complex in an environment free from solvent and matrix effects using rotational spectroscopy in supersonic expansion. Different quantum chemical models (NOCV/CD and NBO) agree in indicating that this interaction largely prevails over the C−H⋅⋅⋅O and C−H⋅⋅⋅N hydrogen bonds. Furthermore, a SAPT analysis shows that electrostatic and dispersion interactions play a comparable role in stabilizing the complex. The conformational landscape exploration and stationary points characterization have been performed using state‐of‐the‐art quantum‐chemical computations providing significant insights on structure determination.
A Stable Antiaromatic 5,20‐Dibenzoyl [28]Hexaphyrin(1.1.1.1.1.1): Core AuIII Metalation and Subsequent Peripheral BIII Metalation
Authors: Ishida Shin‐ichiro , Soya Takanori , Osuka Atsuhiro
Published: August 2018

5,20‐Dibenzoyl [28]hexaphyrin(1.1.1.1.1.1) was synthesized as the first hexaphyrin bearing meso‐aroyl substituents. The meso‐dibenzoyl substituents are hydrogen‐bonded with the pyrrolic protons to stabilize an antiaromatic dumbbell conformer. Core metalation of this hexaphyrin with AuIII afforded rectangular and aromatic [26]hexaphyrin bis‐AuIII complexes, the major isomer of which was reduced with NaBH4 to give its antiaromatic 28π bis‐AuIII complex. This complex allowed facile peripheral metalation with BIII owing to the peripheral benzoyl substituents.
Catalytic Hydrogenation of Cyclic Carbonates using Manganese Complexes
Authors: Kaithal Akash , Hölscher Markus , Leitner Walter
Published: August 2018

Catalytic hydrogenation of cyclic carbonates to diols and methanol was achieved using a molecular catalyst based on earth‐abundant manganese. The complex [Mn(CO)2(Br)[HN(C2H4PiPr2)2] 1 comprising commercially available MACHO ligand is an effective pre‐catalyst operating under relatively mild conditions (T=120 °C, p(H2)=30–60 bar). Upon activation with NaOtBu, the formation of coordinatively unsaturated complex [Mn(CO)2[N(C2H4PiPr2)2)] 5 was spectroscopically verified, which confirmed a kinetically competent intermediate. With the pre‐activated complex, turnover numbers up to 620 and 400 were achieved for the formation of the diol and methanol, respectively. Stoichiometric reactions under catalytically relevant conditions provide insight into the stepwise reduction form the CO2 level in carbonates to methanol as final product.
Total Synthesis of C30 Botryococcene and epi‐Botryococcene by a Diastereoselective Ring Opening of Alkenylcyclopropanes
Authors: Cormier Morgan , de la Torre Aurélien , Marek Ilan
Published: August 2018

Trialkylaluminum compounds perform a diastereoselective 1,6‐ring fragmentation of alkenylcyclopropane. This new tool allows the preparation of hydrocarbon compounds containing two distant stereocenters with a good diastereocontrol. Inspired by the biosynthesis of botryococcene this methodology was applied successfully to the diastereo‐ and enantioselective preparation of this triterpene and its epimer.
The combined effect of plasticizers and graphene on properties of poly(lactic acid)
Authors: da Silva Josiani Aparecida , Dalmolin Carla , Pachekoski Wagner M. , Becker Daniela
Published: August 2018

Poly(lactic acid)’s (PLA) mechanical and barrier properties depend on the solid‐state morphology and crystallinity. To overcome those limitations, plasticizers and nanoparticles are added. Common plasticizers for PLA, such as poly(ethyleneglycol) (PEG) and dibutyl sebacate (DBS), as well as graphene, were used in this work. Therefore, the combined effects of such additions in PLA's mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties were evaluated. The relation between graphene concentration and dispersion was different when DBS or PEG was used. The best dispersion was observed with the lowest (0.25% wt) graphene concentration in the composites with DBS. When PEG was used as plasticizer, the highest (0.5% wt) concentrations of graphene resulted in good dispersion. The best Young's modulus results were observed in the nanocomposites with better graphene dispersion, but the presence of graphene agglomerates seemed to lower the charge transfer resistance, probably because they prevent the plasticizers’ diffusion to the surface and the formation of a second phase. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2018,135, 46745.
Indolo[3,2‐b]carbazole‐based poly(arylene ethynylene)s through Sonogashira coupling for optoelectronic and sensing applications
Authors: Vintu M. , Unnikrishnan G. , Shiju E. , Chandrasekharan K.
Published: August 2018

Two indolo[3,2‐b]carbazole (ICZ)‐based polymers have been designed and synthesized using Sonogashira cross‐coupling based on dibromoindolo[3,2‐b]carbazoles and 2,7‐diethynylfluorene or 9,10‐diethynylanthracene. The 2, 8 positions of the ICZ moiety has been used for the bridging of arylene ethynylene structure to form the polymer backbone. The characterization has been done by Fourier transform infrared, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, ultraviolet–visible and (UV–vis) fluorescence spectroscopic methods. The polymers, moderately soluble in aprotic and chlorinated solvents, have been found to possess thermal stability above 300°C. The band gap examinations, executed through cyclic voltammetry and complemented by UV–vis studies, indicated their semiconducting nature and the possibility for their utilization for the fabrication of polymer solar cells and for optical switching applications. Interestingly, the new diethynylindolocarbazole systems have been found to act as Bronsted acid sensors as well as a Hg2+ receptors. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 46940
Viscous, damping, and mechanical properties of epoxy asphalt adhesives containing different penetration‐grade asphalts
Authors: Sun Yifan , Gong Jie , Liu Ya , Jiang Yongjia , Xi Zhonghua , Cai Jun , Xie Hongfeng
Published: August 2018

Epoxy asphalt adhesive (EAA) is a thermosetting polymer modified asphalt that has been widely applied on steel bridge decks as a strong adhesive and waterproof layers. In this study, the influence of the asphalt penetration grade on the viscosity, damping and mechanical properties, bond strength, and microstructures of EAAs was investigated. The viscosity of the EAAs increased with increasing asphalt penetration grade. The presence of base asphalt increased the glass‐transition temperature (Tg) of the neat epoxy. The asphalt penetration grade had a negligible effect on theTgvalues of the EAAs. The existence of base asphalt improved the damping behaviors of the neat epoxy. Moreover, the damping properties of the EAAs increased with increasing asphalt penetration grade. The tensile strength, elongation at break, and bond strength values of the EAAs increased with increasing asphalt penetration grade. The bond strengths of the EAAs were 7‐ to 10‐fold higher than that of the neat asphalt. The asphalt penetration grade had a negligible effect on the bond strengths of the EAAs. Morphological observations revealed that the average size of the dispersed asphalt particles in the epoxy decreased with increasing asphalt penetration grade. A more homogeneous phase separation was formed in the EAA with a higher penetration‐grade asphalt. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 47027.
Development and characterization of microsatellite loci for the endemic Thalictrum smithii (Ranunculaceae)
Authors: Du Bin‐Bin , Zhan Ya , Li Jiao‐Kun , Chen Ying‐Zhuo , Tang Lu‐Lu
Published: August 2018

Premise of the Study

Microsatellite primers were developed for the gynodioecious Chinese endemic Thalictrum smithii (Ranunculaceae).

Methods and Results

Thirty‐nine microsatellite primers were developed using the Fast Isolation by AFLP of Sequences COntaining repeats (FIASCO) method. Thirteen microsatellite loci were found to be highly polymorphic after screening 114 specimens (60 hermaphrodite and 54 female) from three T. smithii populations. The number of alleles per locus ranged from three to 13, and the levels of observed and expected heterozygosity per locus ranged from 0.000 to 1.000 and from 0.204 to 0.834, respectively. Twenty‐six of these primers were polymorphic in T. petaloideum and T. finetii.

Conclusions

These markers will be useful for examining genetic diversity, polyploidy, and mating system in populations of T. smithii and for guiding study on the evolution of speciation in Thalictrum.
A Model for Estimating the Impact of Orthophosphate on Copper in Water
Authors: Lytle Darren A. , Schock Michael R. , Leo Jordan , Barnes Benjamin
Published: August 2018

The nature of copper phosphate minerals in drinking water distribution systems has remained largely unsolved despite being an important link to reducing cuprosolvency. Chemical equilibrium modeling has also largely failed to accurately predict soluble copper in the presence of orthophosphate. The objective of this work was to develop and validate an empirical copper solubility model that considered pH, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), and orthophosphate from a series of bench‐scale copper precipitation experiments. An empirical model was constructed that allows for the determination of copper levels in a system given pH, DIC, and orthophosphate data. The predictive reliability of this model was assessed by evaluating a collection of cuprosolvency data from two decades of research and field observations and water treatment reports. The tests yielded a firm correlation between predicted and observed copper levels attested by a regression coefficient of 0.86 for a total of 851 observations.
Defining Eosinophil Function in Adiposity and Weight Loss
Authors: Knights Alexander J. , Vohralik Emily J. , Hoehn Kyle L. , Crossley Merlin , Quinlan Kate G. R.
Published: August 2018

Despite promising early work into the role of immune cells such as eosinophils in adipose tissue (AT) homeostasis, recent findings revealed that elevating the number of eosinophils in AT alone is insufficient for improving metabolic impairments in obese mice. Eosinophils are primarily recognized for their role in allergic immunity and defence against parasitic worms. They have also been detected in AT and appear to contribute to adipose homeostasis and drive energy expenditure, but the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. It has long been recognized that immune cells such as macrophages respond to external signals to regulate adipose homeostasis and energy balance, however, less is known about the relevance of eosinophil activity in AT. As the authors propose in this review, given recent debate over the relative importance of their tissue‐specific abundance, the stage is now set for exploring the functionality and activation states of AT eosinophils.
Synthesis of N‐Alkyl‐Carbazole Derivatives as 5‐HT7R Antagonists
Authors: Kim Youngjae , Yeom Miyoung , Lee Soyeon , Tae Jinsung , Kim Hak Joong , Rhim Hyewhon , Seong Jihye , Choi Kyung Il , Min Sun‐Joon , Choo Hyunah
Published: August 2018

We designed and synthesized a series of N‐alkyl‐carbazoles with different alkyl chains and amine moieties, and biological evaluation was performed to discover novel 5‐HT7R antagonists. Among 27 synthesized compounds, 20, 21, 23, and 24 showed excellent binding affinities to 5‐HT7R (Ki = 65, 64, 55, and 31 nM, respectively), and good selectivity profiles over other serotonin receptors. In functional assays, those compounds showed weak antagonistic activities against 5‐HT7R. In particular, the compound 24, 2‐(4‐(5‐(9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)pentyl)piperazin‐1‐yl)phenol, could be considered as a potent and selective 5‐HT7R ligand with weak antagonistic effect. From the molecular docking study, the aromatic hydroxyl group in 24 was shown to play an important role in binding to 5‐HT7R through a hydrogen bonding interaction with Asp142 in the ligand binding pocket of 5‐HT7R.
Establishment and application of a method for screening the therapeutic drugs of ethanol‐induced liver injury based on cellular metabonomics
Authors: Zhang Linghao , Zhang Lina , Hu Qingping , Wei Jianteng , Wang Ningli , Di Duolong , Pei Dong , Liu Yewei
Published: August 2018

A drug‐screening method to test the capacity of drugs to protect against ethanol‐induced liver injury based on cellular metabonomics was established and applied in this study. It screens for the ability to protect against ethanol‐induced liver injury by considering changes in the cellular metabolites of human normal liver L‐02 cells subjected to ethanol treatment. This method considers cellular metabolites as the main analytical index, principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis as the main multi‐ and megavariate data analysis methods, and vitamin C as the standard substance to determine the ability to protect against ethanol‐induced liver injury. Ability to protect against ethanol‐induced liver injury unit = [190 − 50× (14.318 − 10 × Y predictive value)1/2] × ability 1 μg/mL vitamin C. Olive leaf extract, Lycium barbarum L extract and fish roe peptide were screened using the established methods. Olive leaf OP phase had the strongest ability to protect against ethanol‐induced liver injury, at 81.88. The value for L. barbarum L was 37.56. The fish roe peptide water phase was 63.07. All three have the ability to protect against ethanol‐induced liver injury. The drug‐screening method for ability to protect against ethanol‐induced liver injury based on cell metabonomics is a fast, accurate and effective method for quantitative detection of ability to protect against ethanol‐induced liver injury.
Characterization of disulfide linkages at the hinge region of IgG antibodies by HPLC mass spectrometry
Authors: You Jia , Shi Ying , Zhu Wenli , Wu Zhigang , Xiong Jingyuan
Published: August 2018

There are two types of disulfide linkages in IgG antibodies at the hinge region: intra‐ and inter‐disulfide linkages. Characterization of intra‐disulfide linked isomer will provide important information on the stability of the antibodies and better understanding of the mechanism of Fab‐arm exchange. In this report, HPLC coupled with high‐resolution mass spectrometry was applied for characterization of disulfide linkages in IgG antibodies at the hinge region. We were able to accurately identify both inter‐ and intra‐disulfide linked peptides and correctly quantify intra‐disulfide isomers. It is the first study to quantify intra‐disulfide isomers in IgG antibodies with a mass spectrometry approach. It will help to achieve efficient generation of bispecific antibodies with Fab‐arm exchange.
Assessing effectiveness of wood spray painting system model for undergraduate engineering education
Authors: Tran Cong Chi , Hoang Son , Hoang Tien Duong , Nguyen Thi Hong Hanh
Published: August 2018

In this study, the effectiveness of an experimental model of spray painting system (SPS) for wood products in engineering education was evaluated based on students' mental workload (MWL). The subjective rating method, NASA‐task load index (NASA‐TLX), was used to evaluate the MWL of 34 students and 8 experts. The results of the data analysis showed that the assessment of the students' MWL was higher than that of the experts. Hence, the research indicated the need to improve the practical content in order to reduce the student MWL. In addition, the results demonstrated that students' MWL could be used to consider the effectiveness of the experimental model in engineering education, thereby improving the model's efficiency and the quality of training.
Role of tumor microenvironment in the pathobiology of ovarian cancer: Insights and therapeutic opportunities
Authors: Ghoneum Alia , Afify Hesham , Salih Ziyan , Kelly Michael , Said Neveen
Published: August 2018

Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer affecting women and at present, stands as the most lethal gynecologic malignancy. The poor disease outcome is due to the nonspecific symptoms and the lack of effective treatment at advanced stages. Thus, it is of utmost importance to understand ovarian carcinoma through several lenses and to dissect the role that the unique peritoneal tumor microenvironment plays in ovarian cancer progression and metastasis. This review seeks to highlight several determinants of this unique tumor microenvironment, their influence on disease outcome and ongoing clinical trials targeting these determinants.
Amplify security by integrating technology to support human ability
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: August 2018

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — New threats to your campus come in many forms. Is your institution totally up to date to combat all the types of security threats your campus might encounter? The best new tools for your campus are proactive, not reactive, said Nathan Brown, police major at the University of Kentucky. At the annual conference for the Society for College and University Planning, Brown, along with Tom Sorrell, principal at CMTA Consulting Engineers, shared how UK overhauled and upgraded campus security systems using cutting‐edge technology solutions.
Using MbtH‐Like Proteins to Alter the Substrate Profile of a Nonribosomal Peptide Adenylation Enzyme
Authors: Mori Shogo , Green Keith D. , Choi Ryan , Buchko Garry W. , Fried Michael G. , Garneau‐Tsodikova Sylvie
Published: August 2018

MbtH‐like proteins (MLPs) are required for soluble expression and/or optimal activity of some adenylation (A) domains of nonribosomal peptide synthetases. Because A domains can interact with noncognate MLP partners, how the function of an A domain, TioK, involved in the biosynthesis of the bisintercalator thiocoraline, is altered by noncognate MLPs has been investigated. Measuring TioK activity with 12 different MLPs from a variety of bacterial species by using a radiometric assay suggested that the A domain substrate promiscuity could be altered by foreign MLPs. Kinetic studies and bioinformatics analysis expanded the complexity of MLP functions and interactions.
Subclinical hypothyroidism or central hypothyroidism—The danger of thyroid function misinterpretation
Authors: Anyiam Oluwaseun , Cheung Billy , Al‐sabbagh Samer
Published: August 2018

Key Clinical Message

Correct interpretation of thyroid function tests is critical to providing appropriate care to patients with suspected thyroid disease. It is particularly important to distinguish central hypothyroidism from other types due to the potential of concurrent secondary adrenal insufficiency and thus the need for immediate steroid replacement prior to commencing thyroxine.
Highly Efficient Photocatalytic Degradation of Dyes by a Copper–Triazolate Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Liu Chen‐Xia , Zhang Wen‐Hua , Wang Nan , Guo Penghu , Muhler Martin , Wang Yuemin , Lin Shiru , Chen Zhongfang , Yang Guang
Published: August 2018

A copper(I) 3,5‐diphenyltriazolate metal–organic framework (CuTz‐1) was synthesized and extensively characterized by using a multi‐technique approach. The combined results provided solid evidence that CuTz‐1 features an unprecedented Cu5tz6 cluster as the secondary building unit (SBU) with channels approximately 8.3 Å in diameter. This metal–organic framework (MOF) material, which is both thermally and chemically (basic and acidic) stable, exhibited semiconductivity and high photocatalytic activity towards the degradation of dyes in the presence of H2O2. Its catalytic performance was superior to that of reported MOFs and comparable to some composites, which has been attributed to its high efficiency in generating .OH, the most active species for the degradation of dyes. It is suggested that the photogenerated holes are trapped by CuI, which yields CuII, the latter of which behaves as a catalyst for a Fenton‐like reaction to produce an excess amount of .OH in addition to that formed through the scavenging of photogenerated electrons by H2O2. Furthermore, it was shown that a dye mixture (methyl orange, methyl blue, methylene blue, and rhodamine B) could be totally decolorized by using CuTz‐1 as a photocatalyst in the presence of H2O2 under the irradiation of a Xe lamp or natural sunlight.
Tris(2‐benzimidazolylmethyl)amine‐Directed Synthesis of Single‐Atom Nickel Catalysts for Electrochemical CO Production from CO2
Authors: Jeong Hui‐Yun , Balamurugan Mani , Choutipalli Venkata Surya Kumar , Jo Janghyun , Baik Hionsuck , Subramanian Venkatesan , Kim Miyoung , Sim Uk , Nam Ki Tae
Published: August 2018

The electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) to value‐added products is a promising approach to reducing excess CO2 in the atmosphere. However, the development of electrocatalysts for highly selective and efficient electrochemical CO2 reduction has been challenging because protons are usually easier to reduce than CO2 in an aqueous electrolyte. Recently, single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have been suggested as candidate CO2 reduction catalysts due to their unique catalytic properties. To prepare single‐atom metal active sites, the stabilization of metal atoms over conductive supports such as graphene sheets to prevent metal aggregation is crucial. To address this issue, a facile method was developed to prepare single‐atom nickel active sites on reduced graphene oxide (RGO) sheets for the selective production of carbon monoxide (CO) from CO2. The tris(2‐benzimidazolylmethyl)amine (NTB) ligand was introduced as a linker that can homogeneously disperse nickel atoms on the graphene oxide (GO) sheets. Because the NTB ligands form strong interactions with the GO sheets by π–π interactions and with nickel ions by ligation, they can effectively stabilize nickel ions on GO sheets by forming Ni(NTB)‐GO complexes. High‐temperature annealing of Ni(NTB)‐GO under inert atmosphere produces nickel‐ and nitrogen‐doped reduced graphene oxide sheets (Ni‐N‐RGO) with single‐atom Ni−N4 active sites. Ni‐N‐RGO shows high CO2 reduction selectivity in the reduction of CO2 to CO with 97 % faradaic efficiency at −0.8 V vs. RHE (reversible hydrogen electrode).
Synthesis of enantiopure planar chiral bis‐(para)‐pseudo‐meta‐type [2.2]paracyclophanes
Authors: Sawada Risa , Gon Masayuki , Nakamura Jun , Morisaki Yasuhiro , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: August 2018

A new type of planar chiral (Rp)‐ and (Sp)‐4,7,12,15‐tetrasubstituted [2.2]paracyclophanes was prepared from racemic 4,7,12,15‐tetrabromo[2.2]paracyclophane as the starting substrate. Regioselective lithiation and transformations afforded racemic bis‐(para)‐pseudo‐meta‐type [2.2]paracyclophane (4,15‐dibromo‐7,12‐dihydroxy[2.2]paracyclophane). Its optical resolution was performed by the diastereomer method using a chiral camphanoyl group as the chiral auxiliary. The diastereoisomers were readily isolated by simple silica gel column chromatography, and the successive hydrolysis afforded (Rp)‐ and (Sp)‐bis‐(para)‐pseudo‐meta‐type [2.2]paracyclophanes ((Rp)‐ and (Sp)‐4,15‐dibromo‐7,12‐dihydroxy[2.2]paracyclophanes). They can be used as pseudo‐meta‐substituted chiral building blocks.
Cell Adhesion Activity of Peptides Conjugated to Polysaccharides
Authors: Hozumi Kentaro , Nomizu Motoyoshi
Published: August 2018

Many cell‐adhesive peptides have been identified from extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, such as collagen, fibronectin, laminin, and vitronectin. ECM proteins have various cell‐adhesive sequences. Most peptides demonstrate cell‐adhesive activity when simply coated on a tissue culture plate, but solubility, conformation, and coating efficiency of the peptides can significantly alter their biological function. Evaluation of peptide cell‐adhesive activity using peptide‐conjugated polysaccharide constructs is a useful strategy for overcoming peptide solubility and conformation problems. After a simple modification of the polysaccharides, various polysaccharides (chitosan, alginate, and hyaluronate) can fix the peptides on the tissue culture plate quantitatively. The peptide‐polysaccharide strategy can be used to fix different active peptides to the polysaccharide at same time, thus, mimicking the biological functions of the ECM. This paper describes the modification of polysaccharides that are suitable for covalently coupling the peptides and evaluation of the cell‐adhesive activity of peptide as a peptide‐polysaccharide matrix. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Pore Wall Thinning of Mesoporous 4H‐SiC by Sacrificial Oxidation
Authors: Rashid Marzaini , Idris Muhammad Idzdihar , Horrocks Benjamin Richard , Healy Noel , Goss Jonathan Paul , Horsfall Alton Barrett
Published: August 2018

Pore wall thinning of mesoporous 4H‐SiC by sacrificial oxidation is performed. The dimensions within the as‐etched porous SiC are reduced during dry oxidation at 1100 °C by consuming SiC and removing the grown SiO2 in the subsequent hydrofluoric acid (HF) dip step. The process reduces the average pore wall thickness from 27 nm to approximately 16 nm and reduces the thickness standard deviation from ±5 to ±1.4 nm for the investigated 9 h oxidation interval. The new pore wall thinning method will enable controlled nanoscale size reduction capability for mesoporous 4H‐SiC derived nanostructures.
Ruling may impact negligence liability for violence involving students
Authors: Rooksby Jacob H.
Published: August 2018

The California Supreme Court issued a major decision in late March involving a public university's potential negligence liability for student‐on‐student injuries imparted during curricular activities.
Address specialized needs of previously incarcerated students
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: August 2018

DALLAS — Research shows a link between educational attainment and recidivism for previously incarcerated individuals. We know that education works and is cost‐effective, said Joni Schwartz, Ed.D., a professor at LaGuardia Community College of the City University of New York. “It costs much less to put someone through college than to keep him in prison,” she added.