bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positive Position Feedback Controller for Nonlinear Beam Subject to Harmonically Excitation
Authors: Amer Y. A. , EL-Sayed A. T. , Abdel-Wahab A. M. , Salman H. F.
Published: March 2019

In this paper, the vibration reduction of the harmonically excited nonlinear beam is introduced using positive position feedback controller (PPF). The multiple-scale perturbation techniques (MSPT) up is applied to second-order to obtain the analytic results. Numerical simulations are used to compare between time-history and the analytical solution. The frequency response equation (FRE) is studied to illustrate the steady state solutions near the simultaneous resonances. The influences of the different parameters and the system behavior at resonance case are studied to show the optimum conditions of decreasing the vibration. A comparison between the numerical and analytical solutions is presented to appear the validity of the results.
In vitro study of the Polo‐like kinase 1 inhibitor volasertib in non‐small‐cell lung cancer reveals a role for the tumor suppressor p53
Authors: Van den Bossche Jolien , Deben Christophe , De Pauw Ines , Lambrechts Hilde , Hermans Christophe , Deschoolmeester Vanessa , Jacobs Julie , Specenier Pol , Pauwels Patrick , Vermorken Jan Baptist , Peeters Marc , Lardon Filip , Wouters An
Published: March 2019

Polo‐like kinase 1 (Plk1), a master regulator of mitosis and the DNA damage response, is considered to be an intriguing target in the research field of mitotic intervention. The observation that Plk1 is overexpressed in multiple human malignancies, including non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC), gave rise to the development of several small‐molecule inhibitors. Volasertib, presently the most extensively studied Plk1 inhibitor, has been validated to efficiently reduce tumor growth in preclinical settings. Unfortunately, only modest antitumor activity against solid tumors was reported in clinical trials. This discrepancy prompted research into the identification of predictive biomarkers. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic effect of volasertib monotherapy (i.e., cytotoxicity, cell cycle distribution, apoptotic cell death, cellular senescence, and migration) in a panel of NSCLC cell lines differing in p53 status under both normal and reduced oxygen tension (<0.1% O2). A strong growth inhibitory effect was observed in p53 wild‐type cells (A549 and A549‐NTC), with IC50 values significantly lower than those in p53 knockdown/mutant cells (A549‐920 and NCI‐H1975) (P < 0.001). While mitotic arrest was significantly greater in cells with nonfunctional p53 (P < 0.005), apoptotic cell death (P < 0.026) and cellular senescence (P < 0.021) were predominantly induced in p53 wild‐type cells. Overall, the therapeutic effect of volasertib was reduced under hypoxia (P < 0.050). Remarkably, volasertib inhibited cell migration in all cell lines tested (P < 0.040), with the exception of for the NCI‐H1975 p53 mutant cell line. In conclusion, our results show an important difference in the therapeutic effect of Plk1 inhibition in NSCLC cells with versus without functional p53. Overall, the p53 wild‐type cell lines were more sensitive to volasertib treatment, suggesting that p53 might be a predictive biomarker for Plk1 inhibition in NSCLC. Moreover, our results pave the way for new combination strategies with Plk1 inhibitors to enhance antitumor activity.
MR‐based treatment planning in radiation therapy using a deep learning approach
Authors: Liu Fang , Yadav Poonam , Baschnagel Andrew M. , McMillan Alan B.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

To develop and evaluate the feasibility of deep learning approaches for MR‐based treatment planning (deepMTP) in brain tumor radiation therapy.

Methods and materials

A treatment planning pipeline was constructed using a deep learning approach to generate continuously valued pseudo CT images from MR images. A deep convolutional neural network was designed to identify tissue features in volumetric head MR images training with co‐registered kVCT images. A set of 40 retrospective 3D T1‐weighted head images was utilized to train the model, and evaluated in 10 clinical cases with brain metastases by comparing treatment plans using deep learning generated pseudo CT and using an acquired planning kVCT. Paired‐sample Wilcoxon signed rank sum tests were used for statistical analysis to compare dosimetric parameters of plans made with pseudo CT images generated from deepMTP to those made with kVCT‐based clinical treatment plan (CTTP).

Results

deepMTP provides an accurate pseudo CT with Dice coefficients for air: 0.95 ± 0.01, soft tissue: 0.94 ± 0.02, and bone: 0.85 ± 0.02 and a mean absolute error of 75 ± 23 HU compared with acquired kVCTs. The absolute percentage differences of dosimetric parameters between deepMTP and CTTP was 0.24% ± 0.46% for planning target volume (PTV) volume, 1.39% ± 1.31% for maximum dose and 0.27% ± 0.79% for the PTV receiving 95% of the prescribed dose (V95). Furthermore, no significant difference was found for PTV volume (P = 0.50), the maximum dose (P = 0.83) and V95 (P = 0.19) between deepMTP and CTTP.

Conclusions

We have developed an automated approach (deepMTP) that allows generation of a continuously valued pseudo CT from a single high‐resolution 3D MR image and evaluated it in partial brain tumor treatment planning. The deepMTP provided dose distribution with no significant difference relative to a kVCT‐based standard volumetric modulated arc therapy plans.
3D‐Printed Microrobotic Transporters with Recapitulated Stem Cell Niche for Programmable and Active Cell Delivery
Authors: Yasa Immihan Ceren , Tabak Ahmet Fatih , Yasa Oncay , Ceylan Hakan , Sitti Metin
Published: March 2019

Poor retention rate, low targeting accuracy, and spontaneous transformation of stem cells present major clinical barriers to the success of therapies based on stem cell transplantation. To improve the clinical outcome, efforts should focus on the active delivery of stem cells to the target tissue site within a controlled environment, increasing survival, and fate for effective tissue regeneration. Here, a remotely steerable microrobotic cell transporter is presented with a biophysically and biochemically recapitulated stem cell niche for directing stem cells towards a pre‐destined cell lineage. The magnetically actuated double‐helical cell microtransporters of 76 µm length and 20 µm inner cavity diameter are 3D printed where biological and mechanical information regarding the stem cell niche are encoded at the single‐cell level. Cell‐loaded microtransporters are mobilized inside confined microchannels along computer‐controlled trajectories under rotating magnetic fields. The mesenchymal stem cells are shown retaining their differentiation capacities to commit to the osteogenic lineage when stimulated inside the microswimmers in vitro. Such a microrobotic approach has the potential to enable the development of active microcarriers with embedded functionalities for controlled and precisely localized therapeutic cell delivery.
Functionalized DNA Hydrogels Produced by Polymerase‐Catalyzed Incorporation of Non‐Natural Nucleotides as a Surface Coating for Cell Culture Applications
Authors: Finke Alexander , Schneider Ann‐Kathrin , Spreng Anna‐Sophie , Leist Marcel , Niemeyer Christof M. , Marx Andreas
Published: March 2019

Cells from most mammalian tissues require an extracellular matrix (ECM) for attachment and proper functioning. In vitro cell cultures therefore must be supplied with an ECM that satisfies both the biological needs of cells used and the technical demands of the experimental setup. The latter include matrix functionalization for cell attachment, favorable microscopic properties, and affordable production costs. Here, modified DNA materials are therefore developed as an ECM mimic. The material is prepared by chemical cross‐linking of commonly available salmon sperm DNA. To render the material cell‐compatible, it is enzymatically modified by DNA polymerase I to provide versatile attachment points for peptides, proteins, or antibodies via a modular strategy. Different cells specifically attach to the material, even from mixed populations. They can be mildly released for further cell studies by DNase I‐mediated digestion of the DNA material. Additionally, neural stem cells not only attach and survive on the material but also differentiate to a neural lineage when prompted. Furthermore, the DNA material can be employed to capture and retain cells under flow conditions. The simple preparation of the DNA material and its wide scope of applications open new perspectives for various cell study challenges and medical applications.
Secondary data analysis to answer questions in human biology
Authors: Rosinger Asher Y. , Ice Gillian
Published: March 2019

Despite a growing number of publicly available datasets, the use of these datasets for secondary analyses in human biology is less common compared with other fields. Secondary analysis of existing data offers an opportunity for human biologists to ask unique questions through an evolutionary and biocultural lens, allowing for an analysis of cultural and structural nuances that affect health. Leveraging publicly available datasets for human biology research is a way for students and established researchers to complement their data collection, use existing data for master's and doctoral theses, pilot test questions, and use existing data to answer interesting new questions or explore questions at the population level. Here we describe where publicly available data are stored, highlighting some data repositories and how to access them. We then discuss how to decide which dataset is right, depending on the research question. Next, we describe steps to construct datasets, analytical considerations and methodological challenges, best practices, and limitations depending on the structure of the study. We close by highlighting a number of publicly available datasets that have been used by human biologists and other datasets that may be of interest to the community, including research that has been conducted on some example datasets.
Genetic association and functional characterization of MCPH1 gene variation in bipolar disorder and schizophrenia
Authors: Al Eissa Mariam M. , Sharp Sally I. , O'Brien Niamh L. , Fiorentino Alessia , Bass Nicholas J. , Curtis David , McQuillin Andrew
Published: March 2019

A rare microcephalin 1 gene (MCPH1) variant rs61749465A>G (p.Asp61Gly) with prior evidence for association with schizophrenia (p = 3.78 × 10−7) was tested for association in 2,300 bipolar disorder (BPD) participants, 1,930 SCZ participants and 1,820 normal comparison subjects. We report evidence for association of rs61749465A>G with BPD (p = 0.0009). rs61749465 is located in the N‐terminal of the BRCT1 domain of MCPH1. Bioinformatic analysis predicted the Asp61Gly substitution to be damaging to MCPH1 function. A second MCPH1 BRCT1 domain variant (rs199422124C>G; p.Thr27Arg), reported to cause autosomal recessive microcephaly, was not detected in the participants tested here. We sought to characterize the functional effects of these variants on MCPH1 function. Cell count assays indicated that rs199422124 allele G had a greater impact on cell survival compared to the G allele of rs61749465. Gene expression analysis combined with gene network and pathway analysis indicated that rs61749465 allele G may impact protein translation and cell cycle control.

The evidence for association between rs61749465A>G and psychosis in both BPD and SCZ warrants further replication. Likewise, the data from the functional analyses point to molecular mechanisms that may underlie the proposed MCPH1 mediated risk of psychosis and pathogenesis in autosomal recessive microcephaly require additional experimental validation.
The rise of the genetic counseling profession in China
Authors: Sun Liya , Liang Bo , Zhu Liping , Shen Yiping , He Lin
Published: March 2019

The rapid development of genetic and genomic technologies has greatly boosted medical genetic researches and clinical services worldwide. Since last century, genetic counseling in the United States has helped individuals and families understand, accept, and cope with their genetic issues. This fledging profession, which is in essence a branch of social work, emerged in China relatively late but has rapidly grown over the last few years. We believe that genetic counseling will continue to play a pivotal role in building communication channels between medical doctors and their patients, the government and the general public, and social organizations and their customers in China. The growth of genetic counseling aims to enable patients and family members to make informed decision which in turn will lead to the reduction of the birth prevalence of severe congenital anomalies and genetic disorders.
Lateral Photovoltaic Effect and Photo‐Induced Resistance Effect in Nanoscale Metal‐Semiconductor Systems
Authors: Dong Anhua , Wang Hui
Published: March 2019

Functionalization of photoelectric effect in nanostructures is presenting a promising strategy for humans to achieve precise detection and efficient transformation. Due to the high applied value, numerous materials and constructions are adopted for photoelectric effect to deliver on its potential performance. Among these functional materials, metal‐semiconductor (MS) or metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (MOS) systems own unparalleled advantage including reliable stability, superb physical performance, and simple fabrication process. Herein, two types of photoelectric effect, lateral photovoltaic and photo‐induced resistance effect, in nanostructure MS or MOS systems are reviewed. These effects have great potential in applications and will play a beneficial role in future investigations. In addition, how each component of the system contributes to the photoelectric properties and responds to external fields are detailed, suggesting future study directions in photoelectric fields.
Impact of thiourethane filler surface functionalization on composite properties
Authors: Faria‐e‐Silva André L. , dos Santos Andressa , Girotto Emerson M. , Pfeifer Carmem S.
Published: March 2019

Thiourethane oligomers added to methacrylate matrices improve fracture toughness and reduce polymerization stress. In this study, the oligomers are added to the surface of inorganic fillers in the formulation of resin composites. Systematically varied fillers treated either with the thiourethane or a methacrylate silane control are tested. Thiourethane reduces the rate of polymerization of light‐cured composites but does not affect the final degree of conversion. Filler functionalization with thiourethane increases the depth of polymerization, in filler type‐dependent fashion. Thiourethane reduces the polymerization stress for all fillers. The findings suggest that this approach results in the same general effects with the addition of thiourethanes directly to the matrix. This is accomplished with a lower overall concentration of thiourethane, and with no prejudice to the handling characteristics of the material. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47687.
Influence of PP content on mechanical properties, water absorption, and morphology in PA6/PP blend
Authors: Sridhar Aparna , Doddipatla Purnima
Published: March 2019

PA6/polypropylene (PP) blends are investigated for obtaining balanced strength and toughness. The focus of this study is to understand the effect of PP content on mechanical property, water absorption, impact strength, thermal behavior, and morphology of PP in the absence and presence of PP‐g‐maleic anhydride compatibilizer. In comparison to pure PA6, all blends have higher impact strength with 161 and 124% increase at 5 wt % PP content in uncompatibilized and compatibilized blends (UB and CB), respectively. Morphology of impact fractured samples shows brittle fracture in the case of CB. scanning electron microscope of cryogenically fractured samples show decrease in domain size and change in shape from ellipsoid to spherical, from UB to CB. Then, 75% reduction in water absorption is observed for 50 wt % PP content UB. Postwater absorption yield strength (YS) remains constant above 10 wt % PP in both UB and CB and decrease in YS is less at higher PP content in CB. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47690.
Fabrication of hybrid matrix/silane modified carbon fabric composites and study of their mechanical properties
Authors: M. Latif , M.N. Prabhakar , Song Jung‐il
Published: March 2019

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer composites are an extremely strong and light fiber‐reinforced plastics that contains carbon fiber. In the present study, carbon fabrics were treated with various weight percentages of silane and were confirmed by spectral analysis (Fourier transform infrared). The treated carbon fibers were reinforced in hybrid resin (a combination of vinyl ester and epoxy at a ratio of 80:20) by using vacuum‐assisted resin transfer mold technique. The composites were tested to know their tensile strength, modulus, flexural strength, modulus, and interlaminar shear strength. The hybrid matrix specimen was also prepared and tested for the mechanical properties and confirmed the miscibility by differential scanning calorimetry and X‐ray diffraction. The mechanical properties of hybrid matrix composites (HMCs) were studied by fracture surface morphology with scanning electron microscope. The mechanical properties of the HMCs increased with silane treatment. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47695.
Tailoring the structure of Kevlar nanofiber and its effects on the mechanical property and thermal stability of carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber
Authors: Xue Xiaodong , Jiang Kuan , Yin Qing , Zhang Xumin , Zhang Wanqi , Jia Hongbing , Ji Qingmin
Published: March 2019

Water‐dispersible hydrolyzed Kevlar nanofibers (hANFs) prepared by acid‐assisted hydrothermal treatments of Kevlar nanofibers (ANFs) were first incorporated into carboxylated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (XNBR) by a latex co‐coagulation method. The obtained hANFs maintained the one‐dimensional nanofibrous morphology and crystal structure as ANFs. There were amounts of polar groups appearing at the end of hANFs molecular chains after hydrothermal process, which led to the strong hydrogen bonding interaction between the filler and XNBR matrix. The results indicated that hANFs had significant reinforcement effects on the mechanical properties, crosslink density, and thermal stability of XNBR matrix. In comparison with those of neat XNBR, the tensile strength, tear strength, crosslink density, and maximum heat decomposition temperature (Tmax) of XNBR/hANFs nanocomposites filled with 7 phr hANFs increased by 236%, 161%, 35%, and 19.64 °C, respectively. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47698.
Bamboo charcoal modified with Cu2+ and 3‐aminopropyl trimethoxy silane for the adsorption of acid fuchsin dye: Optimization by response surface methodology and the adsorption mechanism
Authors: Zhang Bing , Wu Yunhai , Fang Peng
Published: March 2019

The bamboo charcoal modified with Cu2+ and 3‐aminopropyl trimethoxy silane (BC‐Cu/Si‐NH2) was synthesized and characterized by X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and surface acid–base potentiometric titration. The adsorption for acid fuchsin (AF) dyes onto BC‐Cu/Si‐NH2 was investigated. Moreover, response surface methodology was performed to optimize the process parameters including pH, initial dye concentration, adsorbent dosage, and temperature. The results presented that the adsorption process was mainly influenced by initial AF concentration and adsorbent dosage. Isotherm studies revealed that the adsorption data fitted well with the Sips model and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) model, which indicated the monolayer, homogeneous, and physical nature of the adsorption process. The maximum adsorption capacity calculated from D–R model could approach approximately to 14.91 mg g−1 at 40 °C, and the maximum adsorption capacity of Sips reached to 10.77 mg g−1 at 40 °C. The kinetic experimental data matched well with Spahn and Schlunder model as well as pseudo‐second‐order model. In addition, intraparticle diffusion was not the only rate‐controlling step of adsorption process. Thermodynamic parameters revealed the feasibility, spontaneity, and endothermic nature of adsorption. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47728.
Fabrication of regular arrays of organic crystalline needles using creases formed on oxidized poly(dimethylsiloxane) surfaces
Authors: Watanabe Masashi , Koga Yuki , Ichikawa Hiroko
Published: March 2019

In this study, creases are regularly self‐assembled on the oxidized surface of poly(dimethylsiloxane) by swelling‐induced buckling instability. These creases are then used as templates for the regular arrangement of crystalline needles. The solution of an organic compound is confined in the aligned creases and dried to generate a crystalline needle in each crease. Thus, the orientation of the crystalline needles and their two‐dimensional position could be controlled. The organic compounds used in this study are anthraquinone and 9,10‐dibromoanthracene, among which the latter is an organic semiconducting material. It is expected that the method proposed in the study can be used to fabricate regular arrays of organic semiconducting crystalline needles or nanowires that can be used as elements of electronic devices such as organic field‐effect transistors and chemical sensors. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47736.
Bio‐based epoxy/polyaniline nanofiber‐carbon dot nanocomposites as advanced anticorrosive materials
Authors: Saikia Aditi , Sarmah Devalina , Kumar Ashok , Karak Niranjan
Published: March 2019

Application of anticorrosive coating on metal surface enhances the durability of the metal. Anticorrosion can be achieved by the incorporation of conducting nanomaterials like polyaniline or its nanohybrid to a coating material. Thus, bio‐based epoxy nanocomposites were fabricated by the in situ method using polyaniline nanofiber‐carbon dot nanohybrid (0.50 and 1 wt % with respect to epoxy), as the anticorrosive material. The epoxy resin was obtained by polycondensation of bisphenol‐A, sorbitol, and monoglyceride of castor oil (mole ratio of 16:3:1), as hydroxyl compounds with epichlorohydrin (1:3 equivalent, hydroxyl:epichlorohydrin). The morphological analyses of the nanocomposites revealed the uniform dispersion and good compatibility of the nanohybrid in the epoxy matrix. The thermosets demonstrated good tensile strength (30 MPa), elongation at break (45%), scratch resistance (>10 kg) and impact resistance (14.75 kJ/m), good thermal stability (above 250°C), and chemical resistance. The anticorrosion study of the nanocomposites showed excellent corrosion protection efficiency (corrosion rate: 5.68 × 10−3 mils per year) in 3.5 wt % NaCl compared to the pristine epoxy system. Therefore, this bio‐based thermosetting epoxy nanocomposite was demonstrated as efficient anticorrosive material. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47744.
The Role of Hypoxia in Corneal Extracellular Matrix Deposition and Cell Motility
Authors: Onochie Obianamma E. , Onyejose Anwuli J. , Rich Celeste B. , Trinkaus‐Randall Vickery
Published: March 2019

The cornea is an excellent model tissue to study how cells adapt to periods of hypoxia as it is naturally exposed to diurnal fluxes in oxygen. It is avascular, transparent, and highly innervated. In certain pathologies, such as diabetes, limbal stem cell deficiency, or trauma, the cornea may be exposed to hypoxia for variable lengths of time. Due to its avascularity, the cornea requires atmospheric oxygen, and a reduction in oxygen availability can impair its physiology and function. We hypothesize that hypoxia alters membrane stiffness and the deposition of matrix proteins, leading to changes in cell migration, focal adhesion formation, and wound repair. Two systems—a 3D corneal organ culture model and polyacrylamide substrates of varying stiffness—were used to examine the response of corneal epithelium to normoxic and hypoxic environments. Exposure to hypoxia alters the deposition of the matrix proteins such as laminin and Type IV collagen. In addition, previous studies had shown a change in fibronectin after injury. Studies performed on matrix‐coated acrylamide substrates ranging from 0.2 to 50 kPa revealed stiffness‐dependent changes in cell morphology. The localization, number, and length of paxillin pY118‐ and vinculin pY1065‐containing focal adhesions were different in wounded corneas and in human corneal epithelial cells incubated in hypoxic environments. Overall, these results demonstrate that low‐oxygenated environments modify the composition of the extracellular matrix, basal lamina stiffness, and focal adhesion dynamics, leading to alterations in the function of the cornea. Anat Rec, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Myositis Autoantigen Expression Correlates With Muscle Regeneration but Not Autoantibody Specificity
Authors: Pinal‐Fernandez Iago , Amici David R. , Parks Cassie A. , Derfoul Assia , Casal‐Dominguez Maria , Pak Katherine , Yeker Richard , Plotz Paul , Milisenda Jose C. , Grau‐Junyent Josep M. , Selva‐O'Callaghan Albert , Paik Julie J. , Albayda Jemima , Corse Andrea M. , Lloyd Thomas E. , Christopher‐Stine Lisa , Mammen Andrew L.
Published: March 2019

Objective

Although more than a dozen myositis‐specific autoantibodies (MSAs) have been identified, most patients with myositis are positive for a single MSA. The specific overexpression of a given myositis autoantigen in myositis muscle has been proposed as initiating and/or propagating autoimmunity against that particular autoantigen. The present study was undertaken to test this hypothesis.

Methods

In order to quantify autoantigen RNA expression, RNA sequencing was performed on muscle biopsy samples from control subjects, MSA‐positive patients with myositis, regenerating mouse muscles, and cultured human muscle cells.

Results

Muscle biopsy samples were available from 20 control subjects and 106 patients with autoantibodies recognizing hydroxymethylglutaryl‐coenzyme A reductase (n = 40), signal recognition particles (n = 9), Jo‐1 (n = 18), nuclear matrix protein 2 (n = 12), Mi‐2 (n = 11), transcription intermediary factor 1γ (n = 11), or melanoma differentiation–associated protein 5 (n = 5). The increased expression of a given autoantigen in myositis muscle was not associated with autoantibodies recognizing that autoantigen (all q > 0.05). In biopsy specimens from both myositis muscle and regenerating mouse muscles, autoantigen expression correlated directly with the expression of muscle regeneration markers and correlated inversely with the expression of genes encoding mature muscle proteins. Myositis autoantigens were also expressed at high levels in cultured human muscle cells.

Conclusion

Most myositis autoantigens are highly expressed during muscle regeneration, which may relate to the propagation of autoimmunity. However, factors other than overexpression of specific autoantigens are likely to govern the development of unique autoantibodies in individual patients with myositis.
Catalytic Asymmetric Synthesis of Isoindolinones
Authors: Gao Wei , Chen Mu‐wang , Ding Qiuping , Peng Yiyuan
Published: March 2019

As important reactive species, isoindolinones represent a cluster of valuable building blocks for the construction of natural‐product‐like compounds. In particular, chiral isoindolinones are the key structural feature of naturally occurring bioactive molecules. During the past decade, great advances have been made in the asymmetric synthesis of isoindolinone skeleton compounds. Hence, recent progress in catalytic asymmetric synthesis of isoindolinones is reviewed here, with emphasis on chiral organocatalysis and transition metal complexes enabled transformations. Different organocatalysts (chiral phosphoric acids, phase transfer catalysts, chiral thioureas) and chiral transition‐metal complexes (Rh, Pd, Ir, Cu, Mg, and Ni) are included in this transformation.
Responsive Janus Cage Reactor
Authors: Si Yan , Ji Xuyang , Liang Fuxin , Jiang Bingyin , Yang Zhenzhong
Published: March 2019

A Janus silica cage was synthesized by selectively grafting an ionic liquid (IL) and poly‐N‐isopropylacrylamide (PNIPAM) (lower critical solution temperature (LCST)≈32 °C) onto the exterior and interior sides of the mesoporous SiO2 shell. The paramagnetic core inside the cavity is responsible for magnetic collection. The PW12O403− anion is further conjugated onto the IL side by anion exchange. The Janus cage acts as a thermal‐responsive reactor for catalytic oxidization of dibenzothiophene (DBT) in the presence of H2O2. The sulfide in the model oil can be completely decomposed at 25 °C, whilst the oxidative products are more dissoluble in water and preferentially captured inside the Janus cage. The Janus cage reactor could be regenerated at high temperature above 32 °C after releasing the products.
Intensification of single cell storms prior to lightning onset
Authors: Courtier Benjamin M. , Stein Thorwald H. M. , Harrison R. Giles , Hanley Kirsty E. , Wilkinson Jonathan M.
Published: March 2019

Single cell storms in the United Kingdom can produce lightning, despite apparently only having developed to towering cumulus rather than cumulonimbus. Such marginal thunderstorms still present severe weather hazards but are difficult to identify and predict and therefore provide a warning. Observations from the Met Office radar mosaic and ATDNet (Arrival Time Difference Network) show that these single cell storms demonstrate a characteristic increase in the area of high reflectivity storm core during the 15 min prior to the first lightning. By using the Met Office Unified Model to investigate reflectivity development in modelled storms, a microphysical explanation for the observed reflectivity increase is identified. During a rapid reflectivity increase, the updraft area at the melting layer, the peak updraft velocity and the storm graupel mass increase. The three quantities examined are linked to each other and to the generation of charge within the storm. The production of graupel is promoted by the increase in updraft area and charge separation is enhanced by the faster peak updraft velocity. This explains some of the physical differences between single cell storms that produce lightning and apparently similar storm systems which do not. It also provides a new basis with which to predict lightning hazard for marginal storms.
Climatic features of summertime baroclinic wave packets over Eurasia and the associated possible impacts on precipitation in southern China
Authors: Ye Dechao , Guan Zhaoyong , Jin Dachao
Published: March 2019

Climatic features of baroclinic Rossby wave packets at 300 hPa in summers of 1979–2016 over Eurasia are investigated using the National Centers for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research reanalysis and daily precipitation observations in China. It is found that the waves with zonal wave‐numbers 5–7 are dominant in Northern Hemisphere. The meridional width (zonal length) of wave packets is up to 50°lat, 130°lon. The wave packets get stronger and incline a little northwestward from 850 up to 300 hPa. Most of strong wave packets are observed around the Alps, the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea, and they propagate eastward, or northeastward, or southeastward. Their zonal and meridional propagation velocities reach about 32 and 7 m/s, respectively. Interannual variations of June–July precipitation in different sub‐regions of southern China are significantly affected by the baroclinic wave packet activities in different regions of Eurasia. These results have important implications for in‐depth understanding wave behaviors and their climate impacts on southern China.
Impact of enhanced recovery on oncological outcomes following minimally invasive surgery for rectal cancer
Authors: Quiram B J , Crippa J , Grass F , Lovely J K , Behm K T , Colibaseanu D T , Merchea A , Kelley S R , Harmsen W S , Larson D W
Published: March 2019

Background

Oncological outcomes of locally advanced rectal cancer depend on the quality of surgical and oncological management. Enhanced recovery pathways (ERPs) have yet to be assessed for their oncological impact when used in combination with minimally invasive surgery. This study assessed outcomes with or without an ERP in patients with rectal cancer.

Methods

This was a retrospective analysis of all consecutive adult patients who underwent elective minimally invasive surgery for primary rectal adenocarcinoma with curative intent between February 2005 and April 2018. Both laparoscopic and robotic procedures were included. Short-term morbidity and overall survival were compared between patients treated according to the institutional ERP and those who received conventional care.

Results

A total of 600 patients underwent minimally invasive surgery, of whom 320 (53·3 per cent) were treated according to the ERP and 280 (46·7 per cent) received conventional care. ERP was associated with less overall morbidity (34·7 versus 54·3 per cent; P < 0·001). Patients in the ERP group had improved overall survival on univariable (91·4 versus 81·7 per cent at 5 years; hazard ratio (HR) 0·53, 95 per cent c.i. 0·28 to 0·99) but not multivariable (HR 0·78, 0·41 to 1·50) analysis. Multivariable analysis revealed age (HR 1·46, 1·17 to 1·82), male sex (HR 1·98, 1·05 to 3·70) and complications (HR 2·23, 1·30 to 3·83) as independent risk factors for compromised overall survival. Disease-free survival was comparable for patients who had ERP or conventional treatment (80·5 versus 84·6 per cent at 5 years respectively; P = 0·272).

Conclusion

Treatment within an ERP was associated with a lower morbidity risk that may have had a subtle impact on overall but not disease-specific survival.
A 5‐gene prognostic nomogram predicting survival probability of glioblastoma patients
Authors: Wang Lingchen , Yan Zhengwei , He Xiaona , Zhang Cheng , Yu Huiqiang , Lu Quqin
Published: March 2019

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) remains the most biologically aggressive subtype of gliomas with an average survival of 10 to 12 months. Considering that the overall survival (OS) of each GBM patient is a key factor in the treatment of individuals, it is meaningful to predict the survival probability for GBM patients newly diagnosed in clinical practice.

Material and Methods

Using the TCGA dataset and two independent GEO datasets, we identified genes that are associated with the OS and differentially expressed between GBM tissues and the adjacent normal tissues. A robust likelihood‐based survival modeling approach was applied to select the best genes for modeling. After the prognostic nomogram was generated, an independent dataset on different platform was used to evaluate its effectiveness.

Results

We identified 168 differentially expressed genes associated with the OS. Five of these genes were selected to generate a gene prognostic nomogram. The external validation demonstrated that 5‐gene prognostic nomogram has the capability of predicting the OS of GBM patients.

Conclusion

We developed a novel and convenient prognostic tool based on five genes that exhibited clinical value in predicting the survival probability for newly diagnosed GBM patients, and all of these five genes could represent potential target genes for the treatment of GBM. The development of this model will provide a good reference for cancer researchers.
Tyrosine kinase inhibitor toxicity manifesting as comorbid Moyamoya syndrome and obstructive coronary artery disease: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Zhuo David X. , Ragosta Michael , Patterson Brandy
Published: March 2019

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have assumed an increasingly vital role in treating various hematologic and oncologic malignancies. However, adverse effects with respect to vascular disease have been reported following administration of this class of medications. Here, we present a case report of TKI toxicity, manifesting as comorbid Moyamoya syndrome and obstructive coronary artery disease leading to a type 1 non‐ST‐elevation myocardial infarction. This patient eventually required percutaneous coronary intervention with drug‐eluting stent placement in the right coronary artery. Given the expanding indications of TKI therapy, this case highlights a growing population subset which may require coronary and/or peripheral interventions to treat sequela from otherwise life‐prolonging treatment.
The structural evolution of water and gluten in refined and whole grain breads: A study of soft and hard wheat breads from postmixing to final product
Authors: Bock Jayne E.
Published: March 2019

Background and objectives

Recent work investigating gluten secondary structure in dough systems has provided tantalizing insights as to how small perturbations in gluten structure may impact bread quality. Specifically, shifts in gluten structure from β‐turns to β‐sheets in doughs with bran may be partially responsible for quality defects in whole grain bread. This study aimed to further that knowledge by monitoring gluten secondary structure in soft and hard wheat refined and whole grain bread at different stages during processing. Commercial hard red spring (HW) and soft red winter wheat (SW) flours were used to make breads with whole grain doughs created by substituting bran for 15% of the refined flour. ATR‐FTIR spectra were collected from samples and analyzed for gluten secondary structural content.

Findings

Freshly mixed doughs demonstrated the greatest β‐sheet content (53%–57%) compared to any other dough stage. Refined HW doughs demonstrated continual relaxation of β‐sheets to β‐turns through dough processing (−13% to panning), whereas relaxed SW doughs (−6% to 10%) partially reverted to sheets during punching and panning (1%–3%). The data also confirmed earlier findings that the presence of bran triggers the formation of additional β‐sheets (+4% to 5%) in both HW and SW doughs. Doughs with bran exhibited less structural relaxation (−3% to 6% β‐sheets) during processing. Interestingly, HW doughs exhibited only 1%–2% more β‐turns and only 1%–4% fewer β‐sheets than SW doughs. Analysis of the bread during baking revealed that SW generates a larger sheets:turns ratio compared to HW in refined bread, 21.3 versus 3.6, respectively, that grows to 129 versus 5.3 on addition of bran.

Conclusions

Gluten structural relaxation takes place during proofing in optimally hydrated doughs and largely follows water relaxation trends. The ratio of sheets:turns increases rapidly as water is lost during baking. The extent of this build‐up in the ratio is dependent on the wheat source for the flour (hard vs. soft wheat), presence/absence of bran, and the water loss (i.e., denaturation).

Significance and novelty

These results show that the ability of gluten to resist significant loss of bulk water during baking is related to better bread making performance. Additionally, the ability of gluten to resist substantial secondary structural alteration during baking, specifically formation of excessive β‐sheets, may be a key factor in high‐quality bread.
Highly Efficient Utilization of Precious Metals for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction with Photo‐Assisted Electro‐Deposited Urchin‐Like Te Nanostructure as a Template
Authors: Bai Ling , Li Yujie , Zhao Jun , Bao Yunkai , Ji Lifei , Dai Jianying , Shi Huilan , Yang Fengchun , Zhang Xin
Published: March 2019

In this communication, the urchin‐like Te template is obtained by photo‐assisted electro‐deposition to replace trace platinum, gold and rhodium to obtain the Pt@Te‐PsS, Au@Te‐PsS and Rh@Te‐PsS catalysts in pursuit of their highly efficient utilization. The three‐dimensional structure of urchin‐like Te can not only accelerate the interface charge transfer, but also enhance the structural stability of the catalysts. Moreover, the electrons of Te are delocalized, to increase the electron density of interface and promote the hydrogen evolution reaction. Especially, the Pt@Te‐PsS catalyst with the Pt loading of only 1.08 wt % exhibits extremely outstanding electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction activity. The finer hierarchical structure of Te template boosts the high HER performance with low precious metal loading, which highlights a new strategy for development of high‐efficiency electrocatalysts.
Economic and Risk Analyses of an Industrial N,N‐Dimethylformamide Recovery Process
Authors: Shi Bin , He Xiao Xu , Wu Wei , Hsien Chu Li
Published: March 2019

The industrial N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) recovery plant is usually based on a two‐column sequence (TCS) and the capacity of the wastewater treatment process is larger than 2000 kg h−1. Here, a dividing‐wall column (DWC)‐based DMF recovery plant is proposed. The DWC avoids the remixing effect and reduces the utility duties by about 18.1 % and the CO2 emissions by 15.2 %, compared to the TCS. The DWC effectively decreases the total annual cost by 3.4 % compared to that of the TCS and achieves a profitability index of 2.19 and an internal rate of return of 40.45 %. By Monte Carlo risk analysis, the DWC can increase the chance of earning the profit by up to 16 % compared to the TCS.
Working with Adapted Primary Literature in Chemistry Class
Authors: von Hoff Elena , Aljets Hilko , Milsch Nele , Waitz Thomas , Mey Ingo
Published: March 2019

In diesem Artikel präsentieren wir ein Projekt zur Arbeit mit Adaptierter Primärliteratur (APL). Diese kann als Bindeglied zwischen Lehrbüchern und wissenschaftlicher Primärliteratur verstanden werden und ermöglicht es unter anderem, aktuelle Forschungsinhalte im Kontext wissenschaftlicher Öffentlichkeitsarbeit zeitnah zu disseminieren. Als Teil eines Science Outreach Projektes im Bereich der Biomembranforschung wurde eine APL zum Ionentransport durch einen spannungsabhängigen Ionenkanal entwickelt und in Hinblick auf ihr Potential, im Chemieunterricht Einblicke in Prozesse wissenschaftlicher Erkenntnisgewinnung zu geben, untersucht. Dabei konnten fünf Aspekte identifiziert werden, die einen Einfluss auf das Verständnis der Schülerinnen und Schüler bezüglich wissenschaftlicher Erkenntniswege haben.
Will deeper characterization of the landscape of immune checkpoint molecules in acute myeloid leukemia bone marrow lead to improved therapeutic targeting?
Authors: Vandsemb Esten N. , Kim Tae Kon , Zeidan Amer M.
Published: March 2019

T cells in the bone marrow from patients with acute myeloid leukemia demonstrate increased expression of several immune checkpoint molecules. Can this knowledge be translated into novel therapeutic strategies?
Mushroom bodies in crustaceans: Insect‐like organization in the caridid shrimp Lebbeus groenlandicus
Authors: Sayre Marcel E. , Strausfeld Nicholas J.
Published: March 2019

Paired centers in the forebrain of insects, called the mushroom bodies, have become the most investigated brain region of any invertebrate due to novel genetic strategies that relate unique morphological attributes of these centers to their functional roles in learning and memory. Mushroom bodies possessing all the morphological attributes of those in dicondylic insects have been identified in mantis shrimps, basal hoplocarid crustaceans that are sister to Eumalacostraca, the most species‐rich group of Crustacea. However, unless other examples of mushroom bodies can be identified in Eumalacostraca, the possibility is that mushroom body‐like centers may have undergone convergent evolution in Hoplocarida and are unique to this crustacean lineage. Here, we provide evidence that speaks against convergent evolution, describing in detail the paired mushroom bodies in the lateral protocerebrum of a decapod crustacean, Lebbeus groenlandicus, a species belonging to the infraorder Caridea, an ancient lineage of Eumalacostraca.
Altered cochlear innervation in developing and mature naked and Damaraland mole rats
Authors: Barone Catherine M. , Douma Sytse , Reijntjes Daniël O. J. , Browe Brigitte M. , Köppl Christine , Klump Georg , Park Thomas J. , Pyott Sonja J.
Published: March 2019

Compared to many other rodent species, naked mole rats (Heterocephalus glaber) have elevated auditory thresholds, poor frequency selectivity, and limited ability to localize sound. Because the cochlea is responsible for encoding and relaying auditory signals to the brain, we used immunofluorescence and quantitative image analysis to examine cochlear innervation in mature and developing naked mole rats compared to mice (Mus musculus), gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus), and Damaraland mole rats (Fukomys damarensis), another subterranean rodent. In comparison to mice and gerbils, we observed alterations in afferent and efferent innervation as well as their patterns of developmental refinement in naked and Damaraland mole rats. These alterations were, however, not always shared similarly between naked and Damaraland mole rats. Most conspicuously, in both naked and Damaraland mole rats, inner hair cell (IHC) afferent ribbon density was reduced, whereas outer hair cell afferent ribbon density was increased. Naked and Damaraland mole rats also showed reduced lateral and medial efferent terminal density. Developmentally, naked mole rats showed reduced and prolonged postnatal reorganization of afferent and efferent innervation. Damaraland mole rats showed no evidence of postnatal reorganization. Differences in cochlear innervation specifically between the two subterranean rodents and more broadly among rodents provides insight into the cochlear mechanisms that enhance frequency sensitivity and sound localization, maturation of the auditory system, and the evolutionary adaptations occurring in response to subterranean environments.
The Influence of Heteroatom Dopants Nitrogen, Boron, Sulfur, and Phosphorus on Carbon Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Preuss Kathrin , Siwoniku Adaeze M. , Bucur Cristina I. , Titirici Maria‐Magdalena
Published: March 2019

A hard templating method, using SBA‐15 in combination with glucose solution and different heteroatom precursors, has been employed to investigate the influence of the different heteroatom dopants nitrogen, boron, sulfur, and phosphorus on carbon electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction. Samples were synthesized under the same conditions and resulted in a similar morphology and surface areas around 1000 m2/g. Incorporating nitrogen into the carbon matrix was found to be easier than for boron or phosphorus, while sulfur doping proved problematic and only yielded 2 at% of sulfur or less. Different dopant concentrations as well as a combination of dopants suggested that nitrogen was the only heteroatom exerting an actual influence on the catalytic activity, resulting in higher electron transfer numbers. The other dopants exhibited a similar performance regardless of the dopant content, though slightly improved when compared to an undoped control sample. These findings indicate that incorporated nitrogen can act as catalytic sites, while boron, sulfur and phosphorus can enhance the catalytic activity by possibly creating defects in the carbon matrix.