bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Le risque d’être soi-même. Le consentement et l’affectivité comme fondements de l’éthique ricoeurienne
Authors: Contreras Tasso Beatriz , Mena Malet Patricio
Published: February 2019

Il s’agit dans cet article de montrer que l’éthique ricoeurienne exposée dans Soi-même comme un autre peut et doit être pensée par rapport à l’anthropologie et l’ontologie que le philosophe a progressivement développées depuis son premier grand projet philosophique phénoménologique jusqu’à son œuvre de maturité. Dans le but d’esquisser cette approche des fondements onto-anthropologiques de l’éthique ricœurienne, nous partons d’abord des textes de jeunesse de Ricœur dans lesquels il développe une longue méditation sur le risque qu’implique l’acte de la liberté: risque d’être soi-même, de décider et d’agir sur le monde avec et pour les autres. Puis, notre analyse s’intéresse à la conception ricœurienne du consentement et de l’affectivité afin de voir dans quelle mesure elle est susceptible d’éclairer le développement de l’éthique et de la notion de sujet éthique dans le cadre de la phénoménologie herméneutique de Ricœur. L’article conduit ainsi une analyse de la question du “je peux” et du “je veux” dans Le volontaire et l’involontaire, en passant par L’homme faillible pour déboucher enfin sur un examen de “l’homme agissant et souffrant” dans Soi-même comme un autre.
Teaching ESL through SMS: Prospects and Problems in Nigeria Idegbekwe, Destiny
Authors: Destiny Idegbekwe
Published: February 2019

There is a growing call for English as a second language teachers to explore different learning environments and teaching options to spice up the traditional ‘boring’ English language classes. The onus has been on language teachers to discover these innovative platforms and implement same in their classes. It is against this background that the present study presents the prospects and problems of using the SMS on mobile phones for teaching the English language in Nigeria knowing fully well that at least 15.5 million Nigerians of different ages own at least one mobile phone. The study reveals that most English language teachers do not recognise the cheap, exciting and handy nature of the SMS learning environment. The study also discovers that amongst all the network providers in the country, only MTN provides an SMS based ESL class that is mainly focused on grammar tips. The study examines some problems associated with the SMS learning environment; chief amongst them being the restricted text typing environment of SMS and the inability to take pictures for illustrations. However, the study recommends that despite the short comings, the SMS platform still provides an efficient and cheap learning environment.
Implications of Machine-Learning, Internet-Tests to Save Lives and Money: "7-Point Violence Profile:" Review of 212 Studies, 320,051 Persons, Over 95 Years, With a Cross-Validation Among 136 Homicidal, Overdosing- Substance-Abusing, Sex-Offending,
Authors: Zagar Robert John , Variela Steve , Grove William M. , Busch Kenneth G. , Garbarino James , Zagar Agata Karolina , Kovach Joseph W. , Tippins Steve , Hughes John Russell , Singh Ishup
Published: February 2019

Analysis of 136 persons with psychopathology, suicidal ideation, and violence included: (a) 79 adults [12 homicidal, 13 overdosing-substance-abusers, 15 sex-offending, 15 suicide-completers, 24 controls (23 women, 56 men) Mage=38.29]; and (b) 57 teens [11 homicidal, 7 overdosing-substance-abusers, 10 sex-offending, 17 suicide-completers, 12 controls (15 girls, 42 boys) Mage= 15.37] given (Standard Predictor of Violence Potential (SP), Quick Test (QT), Beck Scale (BSS), MMPI-2/A, Raven Matrices). Significant (p < .05) ANOVA Fs were: (a) adults (SP, BSS, MMPI-2 [VRIN, F, FB, FP, L, K, S, Hs (1), D (2), Pd (4), Mf (5), Pa(6), Pt(7), Sc (8), Ma (9), Si (10), MAC-R, APS, AAS], Raven; and (b) teens (SP, BSS, MMPI-A [F1, F, L, K, D (2), Pa (6), Sc (8)], QT. At-risk, adults, and teens had the same “7-point violence profile” (SP -, “F/L-2-4-6-8-AAS(ACK)”) [insignificant differences (p < .05) ANOVA-Fs: SP, BSS, MMPI-2/A: F, L, K, D (2), Pd (4), Pa (6), Sc (8)].
A multicellular rosette-mediated collective dendrite extension
Authors: Fan Li , Kovacevic Ismar , Heiman Maxwell G , Bao Zhirong
Published: February 2019

Coordination of neurite morphogenesis with surrounding tissues is crucial to the establishment of neural circuits, but the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. We show that neurons in a C. elegans sensory organ, called the amphid, undergo a collective dendrite extension to form the sensory nerve. The amphid neurons first assemble into a multicellular rosette. The vertex of the rosette, which becomes the dendrite tips, is attached to the anteriorly migrating epidermis and carried to the sensory depression, extruding the dendrites away from the neuronal cell bodies. Multiple adhesion molecules including DYF-7, SAX-7, HMR-1 and DLG-1 function redundantly in rosette-to-epidermis attachment. PAR-6 is localized to the rosette vertex and dendrite tips, and promotes DYF-7 localization and dendrite extension. Our results suggest a collective mechanism of neurite extension that is distinct from the classical pioneer-follower model and highlight the role of mechanical cues from surrounding tissues in shaping neurites.
Economic Analysis of Rice Cultivation System under Different Establishment Methods
Authors: Kumar Rakesh , Paradkar Vikas , Singh Shashank
Published: February 2019

Energy utilization efficiency depends on different factor of cropping systems such as physiochemical properties of soil, land preparing operation, plant protection, fertilizer application, threshing, harvesting operation and grain and straw yield. India is developing county and rice crops are one of the most energy intensive crop and its major component are irrigation, land development (tillage), FYM (Farmyard manure) and fertilizers. The importance of Mechanization in cultivation system involves higher input cost but at the same time, it can reduce operation cost of cultivation, increases grain yield and can reduce operational time. Cost of cultivation of rice in different treatment was calculated by adding the cost of all input parameter such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, fuel, and labourer. Grain output was observed considerably higher in mechanized transplanting seedling compare to direct sowing. Direct sowing and zero till mechanical transplanting methods produced the low grain yield because of poor crop growth as compare to transplanting seedling of rice in a standing water table. The grain yield in mechanical transplanting varied from 29.5 to 32.6 q/h where as in direct sowing treatment 31.2 to 32.1 q/ha.
Retinoblastoma – Lessons Learned about Patterns of Care and Contributory Factors from 5 Years’ Experience in a Tertiary Care Center in Eastern India
Authors: Ghosh Debjit , Mondal Bidyut , Basu Abhishek , Mondal Janmenjoy , Gangopadhyay Shubhendu
Published: February 2019

Objectives: Retinoblastoma is the most common intraocular malignancy afflicting children worldwide. Even though there are enough data about the epidemiology of retinoblastoma in western population, there are only few reports from developing countries like India. In this retrospective study, we aimed to describe the epidemiological patterns, survival characteristics and prognostic factors of retinoblastoma.

Materials and Methods: From medical records, we retrospectively analyzed the data of 68 children diagnosed in our hospital between January 2013 and December 2017 as having retinoblastoma. Data on sex, religion, laterality, age at diagnosis, presenting signs, family history, lag time for treatment, cause of such lag time and spread of tumor, treatment mode, and survival time were collected.

Results: The median age of onset was 22 ± 19.73 months (range 2-92 months).The median  patient age of onset of  the unilateral cases was 23 ± 20.6 months, and that of the bilateral cases was 21 ±16.2 months. The median overall survival was 28.1±2.2 months. For unilateral cases, it was 30.1±2.5 months and for bilateral cases it was 19.7±2.9 months. The overall progression free survival (PFS) was 22.2±2.3 months. For unilateral cases, it was 24.18±2.7 months and for bilateral cases it was 13.9±2.9 months.

4 cases of familial retinoblastoma were reported. Among the 13 bilateral cases, 3 were found to have pinealoblastoma too. On Cox regression analysis, age of onset below 36 months, diagnostic delay of less than 5 months and delay of treatment initiation (after diagnosis) less than 2 months were found to have significant effect on OS. The former two were found to have significant effect on PFS but not the latter (p<0.05 and HR>1).

Conclusions: Almost 81% of patients presented at an advanced stage of the disease, the reason being accounted by diagnostic and therapeutic delay by virtue of a number of causes, the major one being eluded by apparently nonviolent yet ineffective alternative medicine practices. In spite of following the institutional protocols which are at par to the international guidelines, analysis shows much poorer survival in this study compared to those of developed countries. The cause might be such late presentation of the cases in already advanced stages of the disease.
Recent Advances in Direct Synthesis of Value‐Added Aromatic Chemicals from Syngas by Cascade Reactions over Bifunctional Catalysts
Authors: Kasipandi Saravanan , Bae Jong Wook
Published: February 2019

Value‐added aromatic monomers such as benzene, toluene, and xylenes (BTX) are very important building‐block chemicals for the production of plastics, polymers, solvents, pesticides, dyes, and adhesives. Syngas‐to‐aromatics (STA) is a very promising approach for the synthesis of aromatic monomers, and is catalyzed via bifunctional catalysts in a single reactor, wherein methanol/dimethyl ether and/or olefins intermediates formed from syngas on metal components are converted into aromatic monomers exclusively on the HZSM‐5 by cascade reactions. Since an optimal Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS) temperature of Fe‐based catalysts is very close to an aromatization temperature of HZSM‐5, Fe‐based catalysts have been frequently used/modified for the synthesis of aromatic monomers from hydrogenation of carbon oxides (CO and CO2). The nature of metal components and amounts of Brönsted acid sites on HZSM‐5, and their mesoporosity and intimacy, significantly alter the selectivity for aromatics by tuning BTX distibution and catalyst stability. Although many developments have been achieved regarding the STA process in recent years, no reviews have been published in this flourishing research area over the last two decades. Here, the recent advances and forthcoming challenges in the progress of syngas (CO+H2) chemistry and hydrogenation of CO2toward the value‐added aromatic monomers through cascade reactions are highlighted.
Transferrin Receptor‐Mediated Sequential Intercellular Nanoparticles Relay for Tumor Deep Penetration and Sonodynamic Therapy
Authors: Zhang Qiuhong , Wang Ning , Ma Ming , Luo Yu , Chen Hangrong
Published: February 2019

Sonodynamic therapy overcomes the tissue penetration barrier of photo‐activated therapeutics, whereas the poor tumor penetration of sonosensitizers largely lowers therapeutic effectiveness. Here, a brand‐new strategy for achieving tumor deep penetration is developed by exploiting the cellular recycling transferrin (Tf). Specifically, a new type of nanosonosensitizer self‐assembled from Tf and organic sonosensitizer protoporphyrin IX is first designed, which exhibits expected biosafety, stability, and ultrasound‐activated cytotoxic reactive oxygen species (ROS) production capability ensuring in vivo administration. More importantly, the nanosonosensitizers inherit the unique transferrin receptor (TfR)‐mediated endocytosis and exocytosis behaviors of Tf, enabling specific binding to TfR‐overexpressed tumor cells and thereafter TfR‐mediated sequential intercellular delivery of nanosonosensitizers. Consequently, tumor deep delivery of sonosensitizers is achieved in TfR‐overexpressed HeLa tumors, which is considerably beneficial for desired tumor‐suppression effect with ROS‐mediated sonodynamic therapy protocol. Such a TfR‐mediated sequential intercellular relay strategy offers an innovative concept for the deep delivery of nanomedicines in tumors.
Spatial price dynamics in the US vegetable sector
Authors: Durborow Samantha L. , Kim Seon‐Woong , Henneberry Shida R. , Brorsen B. Wade
Published: February 2019

This study investigates price transmission in the US fresh vegetable market, considering four important vegetables: carrots, lettuce, onions, and potatoes. An asymmetric variable‐threshold autoregressive (AvTAR) model was used to estimate price relationships between 40 pairs of terminal market vegetable prices, whereas the parity bounds model (PBM) was used to estimate the probability of 22 shipping point to terminal market pairs behaving efficiently. The estimated AvTAR models suggest market integration is higher for more perishable produce. Results for the PBM indicate that 18.2% of the markets studied had more than a 10% probability of behaving inefficiently, indicating that while the majority of markets behaved efficiently, there is room for improvement. The estimated thresholds have been suggested as an estimate of transport costs, but estimated thresholds often differ substantially from actual transport costs.
Outcomes with ibrutinib by line of therapy and post‐ibrutinib discontinuation in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia: Phase 3 analysis
Authors: O'Brien Susan M. , Byrd John C. , Hillmen Peter , Coutre Steven , Brown Jennifer R. , Barr Paul M. , Barrientos Jacqueline C. , Devereux Stephen , Robak Tadeusz , Reddy Nishitha M. , Kipps Thomas J. , Tedeschi Alessandra , Cymbalista Florence , Ghia Paolo , Chang Stephen , Ninomoto Joi , James Danelle F. , Burger Jan A.
Published: February 2019

The efficacy of ibrutinib has been demonstrated in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), including as first‐line therapy. However, outcomes after ibrutinib discontinuation have previously been limited to higher‐risk populations with relapsed/refractory (R/R) disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate outcomes of ibrutinib‐treated patients based on prior lines of therapy, including after ibrutinib discontinuation. Data were analyzed from two multicenter phase 3 studies of single‐agent ibrutinib: RESONATE (PCYC‐1112) in patients with R/R CLL and RESONATE‐2 (PCYC‐1115) in patients with treatment‐naive (TN) CLL without del(17p). This integrated analysis included 271 ibrutinib‐treated non‐del(17p) patients with CLL (136 TN and 135 R/R). Median progression‐free survival (PFS) was not reached for subgroups with 0 and 1/2 prior therapies but was 40.6 months for patients with ≥3 therapies (median follow‐up: TN, 36 months; R/R, 44 months). Median overall survival (OS) was not reached in any subgroup. Overall response rate (ORR) was 92% in TN and 92% in R/R, with depth of response increasing over time. Adverse events (AEs) and ibrutinib discontinuation due to AEs were similar between patient groups. Most patients (64%) remain on treatment. OS following discontinuation was 9.3 months in R/R patients (median follow‐up 18 months, n = 51) and was not reached in TN patients (median follow‐up 10 months, n = 30). In this integrated analysis, ibrutinib was associated with favorable PFS and OS, and high ORR regardless of prior therapies in patients with CLL. The best outcomes following ibrutinib discontinuation were for patients receiving ibrutinib in earlier lines of therapy.
Clinical developmental, neuropsychological, and social–emotional features of Turner syndrome
Authors: Hutaff‐Lee Christa , Bennett Elizabeth , Howell Susan , Tartaglia Nicole
Published: February 2019

Individuals with Turner syndrome (TS) are at risk for a constellation of neurocognitive and psychosocial differences, although there is significant individual variability in these features. TS is associated with an increased risk for difficulties with visual–spatial reasoning, visual–spatial memory, attention, executive functioning, motor, and math skills. Additionally, increased rates of social difficulties, anxiety, and depression are observed. There can be significant interplay between all of these factors contributing to the behavioral phenotype. Neuropsychological features and previous research are reviewed. Clinical considerations and recommendations for evaluation and treatment of psychological and behavioral difficulties are provided, including consideration of medical features in TS, as well as therapies, educational supports, and medication treatment. Future research is needed to evaluate effectiveness of different treatments for neuropsychological and psychosocial features of TS, including modification and validation of existing evidence‐based treatments and new approaches to care.
Rates of symptomatology are lower in recurrent sinonasal malignancy than in other recurrent cancers of the head and neck: a multi‐institutional study
Authors: Workman Alan D. , Velasquez Nathalia , Khan Nayel I. , Borchard Nicole A. , Kuan Edward C. , Palmer James N. , Wang Eric W. , Patel Zara M. , Adappa Nithin D.
Published: February 2019

Background

Sinonasal malignancies are a rare subset of head and neck tumors, and surveillance strategies after definitive tumor treatment are often generalized from those for overall head and neck cancer outcomes data. However, recent literature suggests that the posttreatment period in sinonasal cancer is fundamentally different and a more tailored surveillance approach may be beneficial. Although rates of symptomatology are high in head and neck cancer recurrence and patient‐driven follow‐up is common, rates of symptomatology are unknown in sinonasal cancer specifically.

Methods

Patients with recurrence of sinonasal malignancy were identified at 3 academic rhinology and skull base surgery centers. Demographic, tumor, and treatment data were collected. Rates of symptomatology at presentation were tabulated and examined in the context of several other variables.

Results

Fifty‐five patients had recurrence of sinonasal malignancy after definitive treatment. Fifty‐one percent of patients had no suspicious symptoms at the time of tumor recurrence, with an average time to recurrence of 33 months. Male patients and patients with stage IVA or lower disease were significantly more likely to be asymptomatic at the time of recurrence (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Patients with sinonasal malignancy have a much lower rate of symptomatology during tumor recurrence than that observed in head and neck cancer overall. Furthermore, time to recurrence is substantially longer, as a majority of head and neck cancer recurrences occur in the first 12 months after treatment. These differences highlight the need for more tailored surveillance paradigms in asymptomatic patients with a history of a definitively treated sinonasal neoplasm.
β‐Selective C‐Glycosylation and its Application in the Synthesis of Scleropentaside A
Authors: Boehlich G. Jacob , Schützenmeister Nina
Published: February 2019

C‐Glycosides are carbohydrates that bear a C−C bond to an aglycon at the anomeric center. Due to their high stability towards chemical and enzymatic hydrolysis, these compounds are widely used as carbohydrate mimics in drug development. Herein, we report a general and exclusively β‐selective method for the synthesis of a naturally abundant acyl‐C‐glycosidic structural motif first found in the scleropentaside natural product family. A Corey–Seebach umpolung reaction as the key step in the synthesis of scleropentaside A and analogues enables the β‐selective construction of the anomeric C−C bond starting from unprotected carbohydrates in only four steps. The one‐pot approach is highly atom‐efficient and avoids the use of toxic heavy metals.
Exploring environmental predictors of aquatic macrophytes in water‐dependent Natura 2000 sites of high conservation value: Results from a long‐term study of macrophytes in Greek lakes
Authors: Stefanidis Konstantinos , Sarika Maria , Papastegiadou Eva
Published: February 2019

Aquatic macrophytes play a key role in lake dynamics, but human activities and eutrophication have resulted in macrophyte loss in many lakes throughout Europe. In this study, the relationships between aquatic macrophytes and gradients of environmental factors were explored using an extensive set of data collected from 13 lakes of the Greek mainland that are part of the European network Natura 2000.

The main objectives were to assess the importance of key abiotic predictors and estimate possible environmental thresholds of macrophyte richness, diversity, and abundance using boosted regression trees (BRTs), as well as to explore further the distribution of dominant macrophyte taxa along environmental gradients.

The results reveal conductivity as a significant predictor of macrophyte total cover and diversity. In addition, orthophosphate and nitrate nitrogen appear to play an important role for several macrophyte species and assemblages, reflecting a major effect of eutrophication on the distribution of taxa. The majority of macrophyte assemblages were found in waters characterized by high nutrient content, although their distribution extends along a wide range of phosphorus and nitrogen concentration. In contrast, charophyte species show the optimum of their distribution in clear, oligotrophic waters.

This integrated study can be used for ranking environmental factors that influence macrophyte distribution in the lakes of Greece and for identifying taxa or macrophyte assemblages that can be used as effective indicators of changes in the abiotic environment. In addition, the results can contribute to the conservation of freshwater habitats in the protected areas studied. In particular, measures that aim to improve water quality are expected also to restore oligotrophic habitats that are characterized by benthic charophyte vegetation. Overall, the links between macrophyte assemblages and abiotic factors are critically important in improving freshwater biodiversity management and environmental policies in east Mediterranean lakes.
Keratoconus at a Molecular Level: A Review
Authors: Volatier Thomas L. A. , Figueiredo Francisco C. , Connon Che J.
Published: February 2019

Keratoconus is the most common ectatic disease of the cornea. The disease is usually detected between ages 15 and 25. Incidence is estimated at one out of every 2000 individuals, with some specific ethnic groups being more at risk. Keratoconus manifests itself as a progressive stromal thinning and deformation of the corneal tissue into a conical shape. The etiology of keratoconus is uncertain, although several studies have associated the disease to environmental factors, behavioral conditions and certain genetic disorders. In an effort to better understand how the corneal stroma becomes compromised, multiple experiments have been conducted over the last few years looking at the cells themselves and the factors they produce. The secretion pathways and levels of inflammatory molecules, growth factors, digestive enzymes, and apoptotic factors are all relevant to keratoconus. This review describes the current knowledge of keratoconic pathological signaling pathways within the cornea that may help future developments in disease prevention, treatment and modeling. Anat Rec, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An X‐ray microtomography‐based method for detailed analysis of the three‐dimensional morphology of fungal pellets
Authors: Schmideder Stefan , Barthel Lars , Friedrich Tiaan , Thalhammer Michaela , Kovačević Tijana , Niessen Ludwig , Meyer Vera , Briesen Heiko
Published: February 2019

Filamentous fungi are widely used in the production of biotechnological compounds. Since their morphology is strongly linked to productivity, it is a key parameter in industrial biotechnology. However, identifying the morphological properties of filamentous fungi is challenging. Owing to a lack of appropriate methods, the detailed three‐dimensional morphology of filamentous pellets remains unexplored. In the present study, we used state‐of‐the‐art X‐ray microtomography (µCT) to develop a new method for detailed characterization of fungal pellets. µCT measurements were performed using freeze‐dried pellets obtained from submerged cultivations. Three‐dimensional images were generated and analyzed to locate and quantify hyphal material, tips, and branches. As a result, morphological properties including hyphal length, tip number, branch number, hyphal growth unit, porosity, and hyphal average diameter were ascertained. To validate the potential of the new method, two fungal pellets were studied—one from Aspergillus niger and the other from
Penicillium chrysogenum. We show here that µCT analysis is a promising tool to study the three‐dimensional structure of pellet‐forming filamentous microorganisms in utmost detail. The knowledge gained can be used to understand and thus optimize pellet structures by means of appropriate process or genetic control in biotechnological applications.
The clinical implication of CD45RA+ naïve T cells and CD45RO+ memory T cells in advanced pancreatic cancer: a proxy for tumor biology and outcome prediction
Authors: Hang Junjie , Huang Junjie , Zhou Siyuan , Wu Lixia , Zhu Yingwei , Zhu Lina , Zhou Hanyu , Xu Kequn , Jiang Hua , Yang Xuguang
Published: February 2019

Naïve and memory T cells play a pivotal role in solid tumor pathogenesis but their role in pancreatic cancer progression remains elusive. Thus, we aimed to investigate their clinical potential in advanced pancreatic cancer (APC). Flow cytometry was performed to evaluate the level of baseline peripheral naïve and memory T cells from 137 APC patients before receiving first‐line chemotherapy. Interrelationships between naïve, memory T cells and clinicopathological variables were evaluated using Pearson’s correlation. The prognostic impact of naïve and memory T cells were assessed by Kaplan‐Meier analysis and Cox regression. The correlation between naïve/memory T cells and tumor progression was investigated by Student’s t test. CD4+ naïve/memory ratio showed close correlations with hemoglobin, red blood cell (RBC), absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and platelet while CD8+ naïve/memory ratio was correlated with hemoglobin, RBC and CEA. Higher baseline lever of CD4+CD45RO+/CD4+ was correlated with better overall survival (OS) (P = 0.036). Patients with CD4+ naïve/memory ratio ≥0.36 had a poorer OS than those with CD4+ naïve/memory ratio <0.36 (P = 0.021). In addition, CD4+ naïve/memory ratio showed independent prognostic impact (HR 1.427, 95% CI 1.033‐1.973, P = 0.031). Furthermore, poorer clinical response was correlated with higher level of CD8+ naïve/memory ratio after the third cycle of chemotherapy (P = 0.01). Besides, patients with a lower level of CD8+ naïve/memory ratio had longer progression‐free survival (PFS) (P = 0.028). We propose CD4+ naïve/memory ratio as a novel prognostic biomarker for APC. In addition, CD8+ naïve/memory ratio can be a candidate marker for predicting PFS and the change of its level may reflect the progression of APC.
Is it time to rethink Clery (Part 2 of 2)?
Authors: Zacarese Lawrence M.
Published: February 2019

My last column (see Dec. 2018 issue) began addressing three questions related to the Clery Act. First, has the original spirit of the Clery Act given way to ambiguous and oft‐changing reporting requirements? Next, is the data itself being used in a meaningful way? Lastly, are the civil fines that result from violations of reporting deviations and noncompliance helpful in dissuading others or changing the behaviors of other institutes of higher education?
A Concise, Modular Antibody–Oligonucleotide Conjugation Strategy Based on Disuccinimidyl Ester Activation Chemistry
Authors: Li Gang , Moellering Raymond E.
Published: February 2019

The synthesis of antibody–oligonucleotide conjugates has enabled the development of highly sensitive bioassays for specific epitopes in the laboratory and clinic. Most synthetic schemes to generate these hybrid molecules require expensive reagents, significant quantities of input antibody, and multistep purification routes; thus limiting widespread application. Herein a facile and robust conjugation strategy is reported that involves “plug‐and‐play” antibody conjugation with succinimidyl‐functionalized oligonucleotides, which are high yielding and compatible for use directly after buffer exchange. The succinimidyl‐linked oligonucleotides are synthesized with 5′‐amine‐modified oligonucleotides and disuccinimidyl suberate (DSS), both of which are inexpensive and commercially available. Direct incubation of the resulting stable succinimidyl– oligonucleotide conjugates with commercial antibodies yields conjugates ready for use after benchtop buffer exchange. It is demonstrated that the resulting oligonucleotide–antibody and oligonucleotide–streptavidin conjugates retain potent and specific binding in activity‐dependent proximity ligation imaging, and proximity ligation‐mediated qPCR detection of endogenous proteins in native cellular contexts down to picogram levels of whole proteome. This DSS conjugation strategy should be widely applicable in the synthesis of protein–oligonucleotide conjugates.
A Layered Lithium‐Rich Li(Li0.2Ni0.15Mn0.55Co0.1)O2 Cathode Material: Surface Phase Modification and Enhanced Electrochemical Properties for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Li , He Wei , Peng Dong‐Liang , Xie Qingshui , Xie Rong‐Jun
Published: February 2019

Layered lithium‐rich oxides are recognized as promising cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs), owing to their high‐energy density, high voltage, high specific capacity, and low cost. However, it remains a critical challenge to realize the high capacity of layered lithium‐rich oxides. Herein, we synthesize the Li‐rich Li(Li0.2Ni0.15Mn0.55Co0.1)O2 cathode material by using the sol‐gel method and induced a spinel phase on its surface through carbonization‐reduction engineering. The surface‐modified sample exhibited both improved capacity and rate capabilities. The initial discharge capacity of the treated sample reached 279.6 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, which was 11 % higher when compared to the as‐prepared sample (252.6 mAh g−1). In addition, a discharge capacity of 239.4 and 235.9 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.5 C and 1 C (1 C=250 mAh g−1) could be still obtained for the modified sample, respectively. The enhanced properties were attributed to the increased ionic conductivity through the formation of 3D diffusion paths and reduced structural transformation, owing to the spinel structure decoration on the surface.
SiOx/C‐Decorated CoO Nanosheets as a Long‐life Anode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Pu , Hou Shuang , Pang Fang , Liu Miao , Li Yanxin , Liu Tiezhong , Luo Yizhen , Fan YaMeng , Zhao Lingzhi
Published: February 2019

Unique hierarchical mosaic‐structure SiOx/C@CoO nanosheets were successfully synthesized from SiOx/C nanospheres embedded in CoO nanosheets through a high‐energy ball milling and hydrothermal self‐assembly process. The SiOx/C@CoO material exhibited good cyclic performance with a reversible discharge capacity of 1079 mAh g−1 over 250 cycles at a current density of 1000 mA g−1. It also displayed an excellent rate capability (with an average specific reversible discharge capacity of 777.8 mAh g−1 at 2000 mA g−1 and 480 mAh g−1 at 5000 mA g−1). The stable skeleton structure of SiOx/C‐embedded CoO nanosheets and the synergistic effect between the two materials should be responsible for the improvement of the lithium storage. This work proposes a feasible approach to promote CoO application in lithium‐ion batteries.
Hyperprogression with immunotherapy: Is it real?
Authors: Popat Sanjay
Published: February 2019

Hyperprogression on immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy has been previously described. This editorial reviews the phenomenon in the current context in light of findings reported by Yada Kanjanapan and her colleagues.
Hyperprogressive disease in early‐phase immunotherapy trials: Clinical predictors and association with immune‐related toxicities
Authors: Kanjanapan Yada , Day Daphne , Wang Lisa , Al‐Sawaihey Hamad , Abbas Engy , Namini Amirali , Siu Lillian L. , Hansen Aaron , Razak Albiruni Abdul , Spreafico Anna , Leighl Natasha , Joshua Anthony M. , Butler Marcus O. , Hogg David , Chappell Mary Anne , Soultani Ludmilla , Chow Kayla , Boujos Samantha , Bedard Philippe L.
Published: February 2019

Background

A subset of patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors experience an accelerated tumor growth rate (TGR) in comparison with pretreatment kinetics; this is known as hyperprogression. This study assessed the relation between hyperprogressive disease (HPD) and treatment‐related toxicity and clinical factors.

Methods

This study reviewed patients with solid tumors who were enrolled in early‐phase immunotherapy trials at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre between August 2012 and September 2016 and had computed tomography scans in the pre‐immunotherapy (reference) and on‐immunotherapy (experimental) periods. HPD was defined as progression according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors 1.1 at the first on‐treatment scan and a ≥2‐fold increase in TGR between the reference and experimental periods. Treatment‐related toxicities requiring systemic therapy, drug delays, or discontinuation were considered clinically significant adverse events (CSAEs).

Results

Of 352 patients, 182 were eligible for analysis. The median age was 60 years, and 54% were male. The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status was 0 (32%) or 1 (68%). The Royal Marsden Hospital (RMH) prognostic score was 0/1 in 59%. Single‐agent immunotherapy was given to 80% of the patients. Most patients (89%) received anti‐programmed death (ligand) 1 antibodies alone or in combination with other therapies. HPD occurred in 12 of 182 patients (7%). A higher proportion of females was seen among HPD patients (P = .01), but no association with age, performance status, tumor type, RMH prognostic score, combination immunotherapy, or CSAEs was found. The 1‐year overall survival rate was 28% for HPD patients and 53% for non‐HPD patients (hazard ratio, 1.7; 95% confidence interval, 0.9‐3.3; P = .11).

Conclusions

HPD was observed in 7% of patients with solid tumors treated with immunotherapy. HPD was not associated with CSAEs, age, tumor type, or the type of immunotherapy but was more common in females.
Altered mitochondrial trafficking as a novel mechanism of cancer metastasis
Authors: Furnish Madison , Caino M. Cecilia
Published: February 2019

Background

Mammalian cells must constantly reprogram the distribution of mitochondria in order to meet the local demands for energy, calcium, redox balance, and other mitochondrial functions. Mitochondrial localization inside the cell is a result of a combination of movement along the microtubule tracks plus anchoring to actin filaments.

Recent findings

Recent advances show that subcellular distribution of mitochondria can regulate tumor cell growth, proliferation/motility plasticity, metastatic competence, and therapy responses in tumors. In this review, we discuss our current understanding of the mechanisms by which mitochondrial subcellular distribution is regulated in tumor cells.

Conclusions

Mitochondrial trafficking is dysregulated in tumors. Accumulation of mitochondria at the leading edge of the cell supports energy expensive processes of focal adhesion dynamics, cell membrane dynamics, migration, and invasion.
On the parallelization of Hirschberg's algorithm for multi‐core and many‐core systems
Authors: João Mario , Sena Alexandre C. , Rebello Vinod E. F.
Published: February 2019

Finding the longest common subsequence between two strings in acceptable time frames is crucial to solving various problems in different fields of study. To ensure the optimal solution is found, algorithms based on dynamic programming are employed almost exclusively. While the most commonly adopted algorithm, proposed by Needleman and Wunsch, has quadratic time and space complexity, the linear space complexity of Hirschberg's algorithm favors the comparisons of longer sequences. However, it too has a quadratic time complexity and therefore the effective exploitation of parallelism has become essential. This paper focuses on improving the execution efficiency of Hirschberg's algorithm on multi‐core and many‐core systems. To achieve this goal, first, enhancements to the sequential version are proposed to take advantage of SIMD instructions available on modern processors. Second, the impact on the performance of different parallelization strategies is investigated and evaluated. Results show that combining these two aspects can greatly improve the performance of Hirschberg's algorithm on these architectures. In relation to the original version, speedups of over 46 were achieved on a dual 18‐core server for sequences of 1.6 million characters. Furthermore, experiments with a 68‐core Intel Xeon Phi (many‐core) system obtained speedups of up to 105 for the same sequence size.
Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Hydrogen Energy Applications: Advances and Challenges
Authors: Bakuru Vasudeva Rao , DMello Marilyn Esclance , Kalidindi Suresh Babu
Published: February 2019

Hydrogen is in limelight as an environmental benign alternative to fossil fuels from few decades. To bring the concept of hydrogen economy from academic labs to real world certain challenges need to be addressed in the areas of hydrogen production, storage, and its use in fuel cells. Crystalline metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) with unprecedented surface areas are considered as potential materials for addressing the challenges in each of these three areas. MOFs combine the diverse chemistry of molecular linkers with their ability to coordinate to metal ions and clusters. The unabated flurry of research using MOFs in the context of hydrogen energy related activities in the past decade demonstrates the versatility of this class of materials. In the present review, we discuss major strategical advances that have taken place in the field of “hydrogen economy and MOFs” and point out issues requiring further attention.
Measurement of C2 and CH temperatures in argon‐acetylene low‐pressure microwave‐induced plasma
Authors: Jovović J. , Majstorović G.Lj.
Published: February 2019

The emission spectra of C2(d3Πg–a3Πu), CH(A2Δ–X2Π), and CH(B2Σ–X2Π) bands are analysed to measure rotational Trot, vibrational Tvib, and gas temperature Tg from Ar/C2H2 (5–20% C2H2) microwave‐induced plasma (MIP). In case when helium and hydrogen are used in the gas mixture instead of argon, no significant change in Trot is noticed. Both studied temperatures are insensitive in terms of the C2H2 percentage. From CH(0–0, A2Δ–X2Π) band R2 branch lines, two Trot (Trot ∼ 520–580 K for J′ = 3–9 and Trot ∼ 1,700–1,800 K for J′ = 10–17) are determined. The lower Trot equals the Tg (500–700 K) measured from C2 bands in this study. The H2 Fulcher‐α diagonal bands are recorded as well in the H2/C2H2 mixtures and Trot∼750–900 K of the H2 ground state measured. Tvib ∼ 6,000 K in Ar/C2H2 MIP is calculated from the integral intensity ratio of C2(2,1) and C2(3,2) bands.
AID‐based backoff for throughput enhancement in 802.11ah networks
Authors: Nabuuma Hanifa , Alsusa Emad , Baidas Mohammed W.
Published: February 2019

IEEE 802.11ah is a WiFi standard developed to address requirements associated with the heterogeneous nature of the Internet of Things. It uses the sub‐1 GHz bands to enable long‐range transmissions for low‐power devices. However, long‐range coverage exacerbates the hidden node problem. To mitigate this problem, sectorization and grouping have been proposed by the standard. In this paper, hierarchical clustering and a modified Welsh‐Powell algorithm are combined to create hidden node‐free groups in a sectorized wireless local area network. An analytical model is developed for a deterministic backoff technique that uses association identifiers to set the backoff in order to eliminate collisions. The performance of the deterministic backoff technique is compared with that of existing schemes. Our results show that this approach results in higher throughput and lower latency than other deterministic backoff techniques.
Natural selection contributes to geographic patterns of thermal plasticity in Plantago lanceolata
Authors: Marshall Matthew M. , Batten Leslie C. , Remington David L. , Lacey Elizabeth P.
Published: February 2019

A long‐standing debate in evolutionary biology concerns the relative importance of different evolutionary forces in explaining phenotypic diversification at large geographic scales. For example, natural selection is typically assumed to underlie divergence along environmental gradients. However, neutral evolutionary processes can produce similar patterns. We collected molecular genetic data from 14 European populations of Plantago lanceolata to test the contributions of natural selection versus neutral evolution to population divergence in temperature‐sensitive phenotypic plasticity of floral reflectance. In P. lanceolata, reflectance plasticity is positively correlated with latitude/altitude. We used population pairwise comparisons between neutral genetic differentiation (FST and Jost's D) and phenotypic differentiation (PST) to assess the contributions of geographic distance and environmental parameters of the reproductive season in driving population divergence. Data are consistent with selection having shaped large‐scale geographic patterns in thermal plasticity. The aggregate pattern of PST versus FST was consistent with divergent selection. FST explained thermal plasticity differences only when geographic distance was not included in the model. Differences in the extent of cool reproductive season temperatures, and not overall temperature variation, explained plasticity differences independent of distance. Results are consistent with the hypothesis that thermal plasticity is adaptive where growing seasons are shorter and cooler, that is, at high latitude/altitude.
One‐Step Hydrothermal Synthesis of Carbon‐Coated Nickel–Copper Sulfide Nanoparticles for High‐Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Zheng Jinfeng , Wang Fangping , Ma Jing , Zhou Kailing
Published: February 2019

The C@Ni0.9Cu0.1‐S supercapacitor electrode material with good electrochemical performance was successfully prepared by a simple hydrothermal method. C@Ni0.9Cu0.1‐S obtained by adding glucose has better electrochemical performance than single Ni0.9Cu0.1‐S. In this work, the electrochemical properties of C@Ni0.9Cu0.1‐S electrode materials and asymmetric supercapacitors were studied in detail. This single‐electrode specific capacity in the 6 M KOH solution reaches 1986 F g–1 and the potential window is 0 to 0.49 V. In order to increase the energy density and potential window of the supercapacitor, C@Ni0.9Cu0.1‐S is used as a positive electrode, and AC is used as a negative electrode to assemble asymmetric supercapacitors. The results show that the working voltage of C@Ni0.9Cu0.1‐S∥ AC asymmetric supercapacitor increases to 1.6 V, and the specific capacitance and energy density can reach 184.4 F g–1 and 65.6 Wh kg–1, respectively, and has excellent cycling stability. These excellent electrochemical properties indicate that C@Ni0.9Cu0.1‐S is a promising supercapacitor electrode material.
Facile Access to Diverse Libraries of Internal Alkynes via Sequential Iododediazoniation/Decarboxylative Sonogashira Reaction in Imidazolium ILs without Ligand or Additive
Authors: Prabhala Pavankumar , Savanur Hemantkumar M. , Kalkhambkar Rajesh G. , Laali Kenneth K.
Published: February 2019

Convenient access to diverse libraries of internal alkynes via decarboxylative Sonogashira reaction of alkynyl‐carboxylic acids with iodoarenes, employing imidazolium‐ILs as solvent, along with piperidine‐appended imidazolium [PAIM][NTf2] as task‐specific basic IL is demonstrated, without the need for any ligand or additive. The feasibility to perform these reactions by sequential one‐pot iododediazoniation/decarboxylative Sonogashira reaction is also shown, and the scope of the methods is underscored by providing 29 examples. The potential for recycling and reuse of the IL solvent is also examined.
Mechanochemical Solvent‐Free Conditions for the Synthesis of Pillar[5]arene‐Containing [2]Rotaxanes
Authors: Holler Michel , Stoerkler Timothée , Louis Alexandra , Fischer Fanny , Nierengarten Jean‐François
Published: February 2019

Pillar[5]arene‐containing [2]rotaxanes have been efficiently prepared under solvent‐free conditions. Specifically, solid‐to‐solid ball‐milling of primary or secondary amine reagents with the inclusion complex resulting from the association of dodecanedioyl dichloride and a pillar[5]arene derivative provided the corresponding diamide [2]rotaxanes in good to excellent yields. Importantly, [2]rotaxanes difficult or even impossible to prepare under classical reaction conditions in solution, are now easily obtained.
Unsymmetric Bistable [c2]Daisy Chain Rotaxanes which Combine Two Types of Electroactive Stoppers
Authors: Wolf Adrian , Cid Juan‐José , Moulin Emilie , Niess Frédéric , Du Guangyan , Goujon Antoine , Busseron Eric , Ruff Adrian , Ludwigs Sabine , Giuseppone Nicolas
Published: February 2019

Mechanically interlocked molecules (MIMs) have emerged as intriguing building blocks for the construction of stimuli‐responsive devices and materials. A particularly interesting and well‐implemented subclass of MIMs is composed of symmetric bistable [c2]daisy chain rotaxanes. Topologically, they consist in the double thread of two symmetric macrocycles that are covalently linked to an axle bearing two switchable stations and a bulky stopper to avoid unthreading. Herein we report the synthesis and characterization of a series of unsymmetric bistable [c2]daisy chain rotaxanes that present two different electroactive units as stoppers (an electron donor triarylamine and an electron acceptor perylene bisimide unit). Using a combination of 1D and 2D NMR along with cyclic voltammetry, we demonstrate that the pH actuation of the mechanical bond can be used to modulate the electrochemical properties of the bistable [c2]daisy chain rotaxanes when switching between the contracted and extended forms.
New Aspects of Protein‐film Voltammetry of Redox Enzymes Coupled to Follow‐up Reversible Chemical Reaction in Square‐wave Voltammetry
Authors: Gulaboski Rubin , Janeva Milkica , Maksimova Viktorija
Published: February 2019

Protein‐film square‐wave voltammetry of uniformly adsorbed molecules of redox lipophilic enzymes is applied to study their electrochemical properties, when a reversible follow‐up chemical reaction is coupled to the electrochemically generated product of enzyme's electrode reaction. Theoretical consideration of this so‐called “surface ECrev mechanism” under conditions of square‐wave voltammetry has revealed several new aspects, especially by enzymatic electrode reactions featuring fast electron transfer. We show that the rate of chemical removal/resupply of electrochemically generated Red(ads) enzymatic species, shows quite specific features to all current components of calculated square‐wave voltammograms and affects the electrode kinetics. The effects observed are specific for this particular redox mechanism (surface ECrev mechanism), and they got more pronounced at high electrode kinetics of enzymatic reaction. The features of phenomena of “split net‐SWV peak” and “quasireversible maximum”, which are typical for surface redox reactions studied in square‐wave voltammetry, are strongly affected by kinetics and thermodynamics of follow‐up chemical reaction. While we present plenty of relevant voltammetric situations useful for recognizing this particular mechanism in square‐wave voltammetry, we also propose a new approach to get access to kinetics and thermodynamics of follow‐up chemical reaction. Most of the results in this work throw new insight into the features of protein‐film systems that are coupled with chemical reactions.