bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Free‐Electron Transparent Metasurfaces with Controllable Losses for Broadband Light Manipulation with Nanometer Resolution
Authors: Bonifazi Marcella , Mazzone Valerio , Li Ning , Tian Yi , Fratalocchi Andrea
Published: November 2019

Controlling broadband light in nanoscale volumes is a desired goal in nanophotonics. Metastructures tackle this problem by subwavelength nanostructured patterns. The current technology reaches footprints of 50 nm with plasmonic nanostructures. Scaling down these values is challenging, especially in low loss dielectrics. Here, a new class of metasurfaces is introduced, “printed” point‐to‐point by free‐electron waves and created by altering the resonant atomic transition of inexpensive photosensitive materials. With this approach it is possible to directly write a desired distribution of refractive index and extinction coefficient with a resolution equal to the focusing accuracy of the electron beam, theoretically limited to the single nanometer. An application of this technology is illustrated in structural coloration. Currently, the best results are obtained with plasmonics at 127 000 dual polarization interferometry (DPI), with 50–200 nm structures and chromaticity ranging from blue to yellow. Free‐electron metasurfaces can generate the complete spectrum of colors of the cyan, yellow, magenta, and black system with resolutions up to 256 000 DPI, and nanostructures of 10 nm radius by using a single inexpensive layer of transparent material. This platform can enable a new generation of low cost transparent media supporting ultradense optical circuitry for broadband light control.
Designing Multicolor Dual‐Mode Lanthanide‐Doped NaLuF4/Y2O3 Composites for Advanced Anticounterfeiting
Authors: Chen Xiao , Yao Weijing , Wang Qi , Wu Wei
Published: November 2019

Owing to the large coding capacity and high confidentiality, dual‐mode or multimode anticounterfeiting fluorescent materials are gradually substituting traditional single‐mode fluorescent materials. Herein, a facile hydrothermal method is designed and used to integrate lanthanide ion (Ln3+)‐doped NaLuF4 nanoparticles with Y2O3‐based downconversion nanorods, achieving the construction of dual‐mode luminescent composite materials. The excellent optical properties of NaLuF4/Y2O3 composites are confirmed by photoluminescence spectroscopy. The composites can be excited by a 980 nm laser to generate bright red, green, and blue colors (corresponding to Er3+/Tm3+‐, Yb3+/Ho3+‐, and Yb3+/Tm3+‐doped NaLuF4, respectively), and turn into dim‐red and green colors under an excitation source of 254 nm. Furthermore, the polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐mediated stable fluorescent inks are successfully formulated and then printed onto the paper, aluminum foil, and fabric by low‐cost and simple screen printing techniques to fabricate various anticounterfeiting patterns. Interestingly, the printed patterns are hard to observe under ambient light, enabling the generation of multiple emission color under excitations of 980 and 254 nm. The prepared dual‐mode NaLuF4/Y2O3 composite materials with outstanding stability and distinctive multicolor luminescent properties provide low‐cost, highly effective, multilevel protection for genuine products against counterfeit.
Chiral Coupling of Valley Excitons and Light through Photonic Spin–Orbit Interactions
Authors: Chen Peigang , Lo Tsz Wing , Fan Yulong , Wang Shubo , Huang Haitao , Lei Dangyuan
Published: November 2019

Spintronics employs the spin of electrons to encode information. Akin to spintronics, valleytronics exploits the valley as pseudospin‐carrying controllable binary information. 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have asymmetric +K and −K valleys. The valley pseudospins of these materials can be manipulated by selective pumping, giving rise to valley‐dependent circularly polarized photoluminescence. The photonic spin–orbit interactions (SOIs) in nanophotonic systems allow the transformation or coupling of optical spin angular momentum to orbital angular momentum of light. Hybridizing 2D TMDC electronic systems with nanophotonic systems can open up an avenue for merging TMDC valley polarization and photonic SOIs to uncover new mechanisms of on‐chip optical information processing and transport. This review focuses on the fundamentals and implications of TMDC valley polarization, photonic SOI effects, and their chiral coupling in hybrid TMDCs–nanophotonic systems. First, the deterministic valley‐dependent optical properties of TMDCs and recent efforts in achieving large valley polarization contrast are reviewed. Then, various SOI effects in nanophotonic systems and their physical mechanisms are summarized. At the end, recent demonstrations of chiral coupling between TMDC valley excitons and light through spin‐direction locking at hybrid interfaces are highlighted.
Harnessing an Artificial Intelligence Platform to Dynamically Individualize Combination Therapy for Treating Colorectal Carcinoma in a Rat Model
Authors: Ding Xianting , Chang Vincent H. S. , Li Yulong , Li Xin , Xu Hongquan , Ho Chih‐Ming , Ho Dean , Yen Yun
Published: November 2019

Designing multi‐drug regimens often involves target‐ and synergy prediction‐based drug selection, and subsequent dose escalation to achieve the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) of each drug. This approach may improve efficacy, but not the optimal efficacy and often substantially increases toxicity. Drug interactions depend on many pathways in the omics networks and further complicate the design process. The virtually infinite drug–dose parameter space cannot be reconciled using conventional approaches, which are largely based on prediction. This barrier at least partially accounts for the low response rates that are observed with conventional mono‐ and combinatorial chemotherapy. A combination of nonstandard therapies for colorectal cancer (AGCH: adriamycin, gemcitabine, cisplatin, and herceptin) at ¼ MTD is used to treat the rats, the tumor response rates varied in a wide range. Some of the tumor response rates are close to that of control group. This work harnesses an artificial intelligence (AI) platform that is mechanism free and can dynamically optimize combinatorial therapy in rats. The individually optimized AGCH regimen reveal starkly different drug–dose parameters, which can converge each rat toward the same and low tumor response rate. Importantly, this AI‐based drug–dose optimization technology is an actionable platform, which can achieve N‐of‐1 therapy.
Analytical Solutions for a Supersymmetric Wave‐Equation for Quasiparticles in a Quantum System
Authors: Manzetti Sergio , Trounev Alexander
Published: November 2019

Vortices and quasiparticles have been studied for 2D systems over the past decades in relation to the development of technologies in quantum electromagnetics, optics, and quantum computation. Deriving new equations for quasiparticles in quantum systems is therefore a critical part of quantum physics. Recently, a supersymmetric wave equation has been developed which describes quasiparticles and vorticity under the influence of electromagnetic fields which has been studied numerically. The analytical solutions of the supersymmetric wave‐equation are presented by increasing levels of energy. It is shown that the derived linear and nonlinear models of the supersymmetric wave‐equation can represent respectively symmetric and asymmetric vorticity formed in a confined rotating torus. The models described are suitable to represent vorticity formed in 2D and 3D electron gas and can be of significant relevance to future research in quantum electromagnetics.
Multifunctional Effect of p‐Doping, Antireflection, and Encapsulation by Polymeric Acid for High Efficiency and Stable Carbon Nanotube‐Based Silicon Solar Cells
Authors: Qian Yang , Jeon Il , Ho Ya‐Lun , Lee Changhyun , Jeong Sujeong , Delacou Clement , Seo Seungju , Anisimov Anton , Kaupinnen Esko I. , Matsuo Yutaka , Kang Yoonmook , Lee Hae‐Seok , Kim Donghwan , Delaunay Jean‐Jacques , Maruyama Shigeo
Published: November 2019

Silicon solar cells among different types of solar energy harvesters have entered the commercial market owing to their high power conversion efficiency and stability. By replacing the electrode and the p‐type layer by a single layer of carbon nanotubes, the device can be further simplified. This greatly augments the attractiveness of silicon solar cells in the light of raw material shortages and the solar payback period, as well as lowering the fabrication costs. However, carbon nanotube‐based silicon solar cells still lack device efficiency and stability. These can be improved by chemical doping, antireflection coating, and encapsulation. In this work, the multifunctional effects of p‐doping, antireflection, and encapsulation are observed simultaneously, by applying a polymeric acid. This method increases the power conversion efficiency of single‐walled carbon nanotube‐based silicon solar cells from 9.5% to 14.4% and leads to unprecedented device stability of more than 120 d under severe conditions. In addition, the polymeric acid‐applied carbon nanotube‐based silicon solar cells show excellent chemical and mechanical robustness. The obtained stable efficiency stands the highest among the reported carbon nanotube‐based silicon solar cells.
The Ottawa Emergency Department Shift Observation Tool (O‐EDShOT): A New Tool for Assessing Resident Competence in the Emergency Department
Authors: Cheung Warren J. , Wood Timothy J. , Gofton Wade , Dewhirst Sebastian , Dudek Nancy
Published: November 2019

Objectives

The outcome of emergency medicine (EM) training is to produce physicians who can competently run an emergency department (ED) shift. However, there are few tools with supporting validity evidence specifically designed to assess multiple key competencies across an entire shift. The investigators developed and gathered validity evidence for a novel entrustment‐based tool to assess a resident’s ability to safely run an ED shift.

Methods

Through a nominal group technique, local and national stakeholders identified dimensions of performance that are reflective of a competent ED physician and are required to safely manage an ED shift. These were included as items in the Ottawa Emergency Department Shift Observation Tool (O‐EDShOT), and each item was scored using an entrustment‐based rating scale. The tool was implemented in 2018 at the University of Ottawa Department of Emergency Medicine, and quantitative data and qualitative feedback were collected over 6 months.

Results

A total of 1,141 forms were completed by 78 physicians for 45 residents. An analysis of variance demonstrated an effect of training level with statistically significant increases in mean O‐EDShOT scores with each subsequent postgraduate year (p < 0.001). Scores did not vary by ED treatment area. Residents rated as able to safely run the shift had significantly higher mean ± SD scores (4.8 ± 0.3) than those rated as not able (3.8 ± 0.6; p < 0.001). Faculty and residents reported that the tool was feasible to use and facilitated actionable feedback aimed at progression toward independent practice.

Conclusions

The O‐EDShOT successfully discriminated between trainees of different levels regardless of ED treatment area. Multiple sources of validity evidence support the O‐EDShOT as a tool to assess a resident’s ability to safely run an ED shift. It can serve as a stimulus for daily observation and feedback making it practical to use within an EM residency program.
Glucocorticoid use and ischemia‐reperfusion injury in laparoscopic liver resection: Randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hasegawa Yasushi , Nitta Hiroyuki , Takahara Takeshi , Katagiri Hirokatsu , Kanno Shoji , Umemura Akira , Akiyama Yuji , Iwaya Takeshi , Otsuka Koki , Sasaki Akira
Published: November 2019

Aim

Laparoscopic liver resection (LLR) is increasingly carried out worldwide. However, there are concerns regarding ischemia‐reperfusion injury caused by pneumoperitoneum and the Pringle maneuver. It is not clear whether perioperative use of glucocorticoids lowers the risk of ischemia‐reperfusion hepatic injury in LLR as has been reported for open liver resection. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of perioperative glucocorticoid use in improving hepatic function and surgical outcomes after LLR.

Methods

In this double‐blind, randomized controlled trial (UMIN000013823), we enrolled 130 patients who presented to our institution for LLR between April 2014 and October 2018. Six patients were excluded, resulting in 124 patients being randomized to either the glucocorticoid or the control group. Preoperatively, patients in the glucocorticoid group received 500 mg methylprednisolone in saline solution, patients in the control group saline solution only. Surgical outcomes and blood parameters were compared between the two groups.

Results

The Pringle maneuver could not be carried out in 24 patients, resulting in 50 patients in each group being included in the analysis. Postoperatively, total, direct and indirect bilirubin, and C‐reactive protein and interleukin‐6 levels were significantly lower, albumin levels were significantly higher, and prothrombin time was significantly shorter in the glucocorticoid than in the control group. Surgical outcomes were not significantly different between the groups.

Conclusion

This first report on preoperative glucocorticoid use in LLR showed that it significantly improved postoperative liver function and thus might enhance the safety of LLR.
A Benzophenone‐Based Photocaging Strategy for the N7 Position of Guanosine
Authors: Anhäuser Lea , Klöcker Nils , Muttach Fabian , Mäsing Florian , Špaček Petr , Studer Armido , Rentmeister Andrea
Published: November 2019

Selective modification of nucleobases with photolabile caging groups enables the study and control of processes and interactions of nucleic acids. Numerous positions on nucleobases have been targeted, but all involve formal substitution of a hydrogen atom with a photocaging group. Nature, however, also uses ring‐nitrogen methylation, such as m7G and m1A, to change the electronic structure and properties of RNA and control biomolecular interactions essential for translation and turnover. We report that aryl ketones such as benzophenone and α‐hydroxyalkyl ketone are photolabile caging groups if installed at the N7 position of guanosine or the N1 position of adenosine. Common photocaging groups derived from the ortho‐nitrobenzyl moiety were not suitable. Both chemical and enzymatic methods for site‐specific modification of N7G in nucleosides, dinucleotides, and RNA were developed, thereby opening the door to studying the molecular interactions of m7G and m1A with spatiotemporal control.
Development of active cassava starch cellulose nanofiber‐based films incorporated with natural antimicrobial tea tree essential oil
Authors: Silveira Maíra Patricio , Silva Helen Costa , Pimentel Ida Chapaval , Poitevin Carolina Gracia , da Costa Stuart Andressa Katiski , Carpiné Danielle , de Matos Jorge Luiz Mario , Jorge Regina Maria Matos
Published: November 2019

In the present study, a cassava starch‐glycerol film with reinforcement of Pinus sp. nanofibers (NFC) incorporated with tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil (TTO) were prepared by casting technique. The physical (barrier, mechanical, and optical), structural, and antimicrobial properties of the films were evaluated and compared with the control films. Films with 0.08% TTO exhibited a significant increase in the tensile strength (TS) while films with 1.5% TTO showed a decrease in TS, suggesting a crosslinking effect. The addition of 1.5% TTO reduced the water vapor permeability values in 43% comparing to the control films. Analysis obtained by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed bands related to the interaction between TTO and matrix for films with 1.5% TTO and 0.3% NFC. This film was effective against Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans which could be applied for several packaging purposes. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2020, 137, 48726.
ASD symptoms in toddlers and preschoolers: An examination of sex differences
Authors: Ros‐Demarize Rosmary , Bradley Catherine , Kanne Stephen M. , Warren Zachary , Boan Andrea , Lajonchere Clara , Park Justine , Carpenter Laura Arnstein
Published: November 2019

Although considerable work has documented higher prevalence rates of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in boys, fewer studies have focused on sex differences within samples of young children at‐risk for ASD. This study examined sex differences in ASD symptom domains and ASD screening outcomes among toddlers (18–35 months) and preschoolers (36–72 months) with ASD‐related concerns. Participants included 480 children between 18 and 72 months evaluated by university‐based ASD specialty clinics. Results revealed significant sex differences in severity of social communication (SC) deficits across age groups. Within the toddler group, girls diagnosed with ASD displayed greater SC deficits according to standardized observation and clinician severity ratings. Within the preschool group, girls diagnosed with ASD were rated by parents as having more severe SC deficits, but these differences were not corroborated by standardized observations or clinician ratings. No sex differences emerged for severity of restricted repetitive behaviors (RRBs) for either age group. Across the entire referred sample, boys and girls did not differ in terms of scores on commonly used screening instruments. Importantly, results suggest that two of the most commonly used ASD screeners (i.e., Modified‐Checklist for Autism in Toddlers‐Revised with Follow‐up and Social Communication Questionnaire ) may underidentify RRBs in toddler and preschool‐aged girls as screening scores were only influenced by severity of SC deficits. Greater SC deficits in young girls with ASD along with its impact on screening status suggests greater attention be placed on the under‐identification of ASD in girls as well as current screening measures' ability to tap into the topography of ASD symptoms across genders. Autism Res 2020, 13: 157–166. © 2019 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Lay Summary

In this study, we found that young girls diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder tend to have greater social communication deficits than young boys and that these differences vary by age. Specifically, toddler‐aged girls receive higher clinician ratings of social communication deficits when compared to boys, while preschool‐aged girls receive higher parent ratings of social communication deficits. For girls, current screening tools seem to be more highly influenced by severity of social communication deficits than by restricted repetitive behaviors.
Systemic lupus erythematosus: Possible localization of trypsin‐like and metalloprotease active centers in the protein sequence of the monoclonal light chain (NGTA2‐Me‐pro‐Tr)
Authors: Timofeeva Anna M. , Nevinsky Georgy A.
Published: November 2019

It was previously shown that several monoclonal light chains corresponding to the phagemid library of recombinant peripheral blood lymphocyte immunoglobulin light chains of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus specifically hydrolyze only myelin basic protein (MBP). Canonical enzymes usually have only one active site catalyzing some kind of chemical reaction. It was shown previously that in contrast to classical enzymes, preparations of one of the light chains (NGTA2‐Me‐pro‐Tr) showed two optimal pH values, two optimal concentrations of metal ions, and two Km values for MBP. One protease active site of NGTA2‐Me‐pro‐Tr was trypsin like, whereas second one was metal dependent. In this article, a search for protein sequences of NGTA2‐Me‐pro‐Tr responsible for catalytic functions was carried out. We performed, for the first time, analysis of the homology of the protein sequence of NGTA2‐Me‐pro‐Tr with those of several classical Zn2+‐ and Ca2+‐dependent, as well as human serine, proteases. The analysis allowed us to identify the protein sequences of NGTA2‐Me‐pro‐Tr responsible for serine‐like activity, the binding of MBP, and chelation of metal ions and catalysis directly. The data obtained are summarized using hypothetical models of the structure of the two active centers of a very unusual light chain of antibodies (Abs). The findings obtained may be very important for understanding possible structure of active centers of very unusual light chain of Abs possessing several enzymatic activities.
Belastungsprüfung im Kaufhaus Görlitz
Authors: Mosig Oliver , Wellner Sabine , Rudolph Jörg
Published: November 2019

Das Jugendstil‐Kaufhaus in Görlitz gilt als letztes baulich erhaltenes Zeugnis der deutschen Warenhausarchitektur des frühen 20. Jh. Im Zuge der Sanierung des Gebäudes musste die Tragfähigkeit der Geschossdecken aufgrund erhöhter Lasten und zusätzlicher Anforderungen aus heutiger Normung neu beurteilt werden. Bei den Decken handelt es sich um Steineisendecken, sog. Reformhohlsteindecken – ein typisches System dieser Bauepoche – mit Spannweiten von bis zu 9 m. Das Otto‐Mohr‐Laboratorium des Instituts für Massivbau der TU Dresden führte dazu Traglastversuche an insgesamt zehn Deckenfeldern in unterschiedlichen Gebäudebereichen des Kaufhauses durch. Mit einer Belastungsrahmenkonstruktion konnten die Geschossdecken experimentell durch Probebelastungen für eine Flächenlast von 10,2 kN/m2 nachgewiesen werden. Die max. gemessenen Durchbiegungen blieben deutlich unterhalb der Grenzwerte, außer feinen Haarrissen konnten während der Belastungsprüfung keine Schäden oder Beeinträchtigungen festgestellt werden. Für die weitere Sanierung des Kaufhauses können somit aufwändige Verstärkungsmaßnahmen entfallen.

Teile des hier vorliegenden Beitrags wurden erstmals im Tagungsband zum 10. Symposium Experimentelle Untersuchungen von Baukonstruktionen (SEUB) veröffentlicht.
Der kritische Chloridgehalt – Bestimmung am Bauwerk und Einfluss auf die Lebensdauer
Authors: Boschmann Käthler Carolina , Angst Ueli M.
Published: November 2019

Die zuverlässige Bestimmung des Korrosionsrisikos an Stahlbeton‐Bauwerken ist eine der großen Ingenieur‐Herausforderungen unserer Zeit. Bisher beruht die Abschätzung des Korrosionsrisikos auf der Bestimmung von Chloridprofilen am Bauwerk, welche mit festgesetzten Grenzwerten, dem kritischen, korrosionsauslösenden Chloridgehalt Ccrit, verglichen werden. Dieser Ccrit ist mangels einer anwendbaren Testmethode ein in Normen festgesetzter Wert, der mit min. Anpassungsmöglichkeiten für alle Bauwerke Gültigkeit hat. Dadurch bleiben wesentliche objektspezifische Einflussfaktoren unberücksichtigt; die Resultate bleiben erfahrungsbasiert und können lediglich der Orientierung dienen. Die hier beschriebene Testmethode ermöglicht die Bestimmung des spezifischen Ccrit für Bauwerke. Dazu werden 150‐mm‐Bohrkerne mit jeweils einem zentrischen, noch nicht korrodierenden Bewehrungsstahl entnommen und im Labor einer konzentrierten Chloridlösung ausgesetzt. Bei Korrosionsinitiierung kann Ccrit als statistische Verteilung bestimmt werden.

Aus einer Vielzahl von Proben haben die Autoren eine Ccrit‐Datenbank etabliert. Diese zeigt eine deutliche Variation des Ccrit verschiedener Bauwerke: die Werte liegen teilweise unter‐, teilweise oberhalb des Normwerts. Damit können objektspezifische Restlebensdauern berechnet werden. Im Falle eines tieferen spezifischen Ccrit erlaubt dies, dass Instandsetzungsarbeiten noch vorgenommen werden können, bevor die Korrosionsschäden diese maßgeblich verteuern oder gar verunmöglichen. Dagegen können im Falle eines höheren Ccrit die Instandsetzungsarbeiten ohne bedeutende Kostenfolge (und unter gleichzeitiger Gewährleistung der Sicherheit) auf einen späteren Zeitpunkt verschoben werden.
RF Energy Absorption in Human Bodies Due to Wearable Antennas in the 2.4 GHz Frequency Band
Authors: Fernandez Marta , Espinosa Hugo G. , Guerra David , Peña Iván , Thiel David V. , Arrinda Amaia
Published: November 2019

Human exposure to electromagnetic fields produced by two wearable antennas operating in the 2.4 GHz frequency band was assessed by computational tools. Both antennas were designed to be attached to the skin, but they were intended for different applications. The first antenna was designed for off‐body applications, i.e. to communicate with a device placed outside the body, while the second antenna model was optimized to communicate with a device located inside the body. The power absorption in human tissues was determined at several locations of adult male and female body models. The maximum specific absorption rate (SAR) value obtained with the off‐body antenna was found on the torso of the woman model and was equal to 0.037 W/kg at 2.45 GHz. SAR levels increased significantly for the antenna transmitting inside the body. In this case, SAR values ranged between 0.23 and 0.45 W/kg at the same body location. The power absorbed in different body tissues and total power absorbed in the body were also calculated; the maximum total power absorbed was equal to 5.2 mW for an antenna input power equal to 10 mW. Bioelectromagnetics. 2020;41:73–79 © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
First derivative synchronous spectrofluorimetric method for the simultaneous determination of propofol and cisatracurium besylate in biological fluids
Authors: El Sharkasy Mona E. , Walash M. , Belal F. , Salim M.M.
Published: November 2019

Propofol and cisatracurium besylate have been simultaneously determined using a highly sensitive first derivative synchronous spectrofluorometric method. The method is based on measuring first derivative synchronous spectrofluorimetric amplitude at Δλ = 40 nm with a scanning rate of 600 nm/min. The different experimental parameters affecting the fluorescence intensity of the two drugs were carefully studied and optimized. The amplitude–concentration plots were rectilinear over the range 40.0–400.0 ng/mL and 20.0–280.0 ng/mL for propofol and cisatracurium, respectively with lower detection limits of 4.0 and 2.35 ng/mL and quantification limits of 12.1 and 7.1 ng/mL for propofol and cisatracurium, respectively. The proposed method was successfully applied for the determination of the two compounds in synthetic mixtures and in commercial ampoules. The high sensitivity attained using the proposed method allowed the simultaneous determination of both drugs in spiked plasma samples. The mean % recoveries in spiked human plasma (n = 3) were 96.53 ± 0.90 and 96.20 ± 1.64 for each of propofol and cisatracurium, respectively. The method was validated in compliance with International Council of Harmonization (ICH) Guidelines.
Radiomics approach to distinguish between well differentiated liposarcomas and lipomas on MRI
Authors: Vos M , Starmans M P A , Timbergen M J M , van der Voort S R , Padmos G A , Kessels W , Niessen W J , van Leenders G J L H , Grünhagen D J , Sleijfer S , Verhoef C , Klein S , Visser J J
Published: November 2019

Background

Well differentiated liposarcoma (WDLPS) can be difficult to distinguish from lipoma. Currently, this distinction is made by testing for MDM2 amplification, which requires a biopsy. The aim of this study was to develop a noninvasive method to predict MDM2 amplification status using radiomics features derived from MRI.

Methods

Patients with an MDM2-negative lipoma or MDM2-positive WDLPS and a pretreatment T1-weighted MRI scan who were referred to Erasmus MC between 2009 and 2018 were included. When available, other MRI sequences were included in the radiomics analysis. Features describing intensity, shape and texture were extracted from the tumour region. Classification was performed using various machine learning approaches. Evaluation was performed through a 100 times random-split cross-validation. The performance of the models was compared with the performance of three expert radiologists.

Results

The data set included 116 tumours (58 patients with lipoma, 58 with WDLPS) and originated from 41 different MRI scanners, resulting in wide heterogeneity in imaging hardware and acquisition protocols. The radiomics model based on T1 imaging features alone resulted in a mean area under the curve (AUC) of 0·83, sensitivity of 0·68 and specificity of 0·84. Adding the T2-weighted imaging features in an explorative analysis improved the model to a mean AUC of 0·89, sensitivity of 0·74 and specificity of 0·88. The three radiologists scored an AUC of 0·74 and 0·72 and 0·61 respectively; a sensitivity of 0·74, 0·91 and 0·64; and a specificity of 0·55, 0·36 and 0·59.

Conclusion

Radiomics is a promising, non-invasive method for differentiating between WDLPS and lipoma, outperforming the scores of the radiologists. Further optimization and validation is needed before introduction into clinical practice.
The rhythm of hormones in genes
Authors: Anithasri Anbalagan
Published: November 2019

Hormones are the major signaling molecules that have a complex signaling cascade involving intracellular and intranuclear receptors, coreceptors, and signal transduction pathways. The molecular mechanism of hormonal action is written in a poetic verse to kindle the interest of students and to augment their affinity toward the onerous yet awesome topic. The hormones are secreted from the site of their synthesis and carried by transport binding proteins to exert their action in their target cells at a different site. Cortisol and aldosterone are derived from cholesterol with pregnenolone as an intermediate. Cortisol binds to the Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) in the cytoplasm by displacing the heat shock protein (hsp) already bound to it. The receptor ligand complex then traverses the nuclear membrane and binds to the Glucocorticoid Responsive Element (GRE) in the DNA. Except the orphan receptors, the nuclear receptors of thyroid, retinol (Vitamin A) and calcitriol (Vitamin D) exist as heterodimers and are bound to the DNA by their DNA binding domains. These nuclear receptors exist as heterodimers partnered with RXR (retinoic x receptor). Binding of insulin to its receptor on the target cells results in a cascade of intracellular events that involves activation of various kinases like PDK, mTOR and MAPK. This leads to phosphorylation of signal molecules that mediates the actions of insulin. Somatotropin (Growth hormone) and prolactin acts by JAK‐STAT pathway where the phosphorylated STAT protein dimerises and translocates to the nucleus and binds to Interferon Responsive Element and activates transcription. Somatotropin prevents dwarfism by promoting growth and prolactin promotes synthesis of milk by mammary glands. The communication between the nuclear receptors (FXR, LXR, PPAR‐Gamma) and the basal transcription apparatus is accomplished by protein – protein interaction between the nuclear receptors and the nuclear coregulators like CREB, TRAP and DRIP. These coregulators bind to various coactivators and transcription factors that activate RNA polymerase resulting in the synthesis of Pre‐pri RNA strand. Hence hormones act as first messengers that initiates the expression of genetic message in the codon of genes as protein synthesis by a process of translation.
Consider compliance, liability issues triggered by promoting, facilitating health care coverage
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: November 2019

There's a good chance that a department somewhere on your campus has promoted or offered short‐term limited‐duration health insurance coverage to students, also known as STLDIs. And that could place your institution at risk of encountering potentially serious legal ramifications and compliance pitfalls even if your institution doesn't collect premiums or have a policy issued by a health insurance organization.
A community‐based lung cancer rapid tissue donation protocol provides high‐quality drug‐resistant specimens for proteogenomic analyses
Authors: Boyle Theresa A. , Quinn Gwendolyn P. , Schabath Matthew B. , Muñoz‐Antonia Teresita , Saller James J. , Duarte Luisa F. , Hair Laura S. , Teer Jamie K. , Chiang Derek Y. , Leary Rebecca , Wong Connie C. , Savchenko Alexander , Singh Angad P. , Charette LaSalette , Mendell Kate , Gorgun Gullu , Antonia Scott J. , Chiappori Alberto A. , Creelan Benjamin C. , Gray Jhanelle E. , Haura Eric B.
Published: November 2019

Background

For the advancement of cancer research, the collection of tissue specimens from drug‐resistant tumors after targeted therapy is crucial. Although patients with lung cancer are often provided targeted therapy, post‐therapy specimens are not routinely collected due to the risks of collection, limiting the study of targeted therapy resistance mechanisms. Posthumous rapid tissue donation (RTD) is an expedient collection process that provides an opportunity to understand treatment‐resistant lung cancers.

Methods

Consent to participate in the thoracic RTD protocol was obtained during patient care. When death occurred, tumor and paired non‐tumor, cytology, and blood specimens were collected within 48 hours and preserved as formalin‐fixed and frozen specimens. Tissue sections were evaluated with hematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemistry (IHC) against multiple biomarkers, including various programmed death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) clones. Next‐generation sequencing was performed on 13 specimens from 5 patients.

Results

Postmortem specimens (N = 180) were well preserved from 9 patients with lung cancer. PD‐L1 IHC revealed heterogeneity within and between tumors. An AGK‐BRAF fusion was newly identified in tumor from a donor with a known echinoderm microtubule‐associated protein‐like 4 to anaplastic lymphoma kinase (EML4‐ALK) fusion and history of anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) inhibitor therapy. RNA expression analysis revealed a clonal genetic origin of metastatic cancer cells.

Conclusions

Post‐therapy specimens demonstrated PD‐L1 heterogeneity and an acyl glycerol kinase to B‐rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (AGK‐BRAF) fusion in a patient with an EML4‐ALK–positive lung adenocarcinoma as a potential resistance mechanism to ALK inhibitor therapy. Rapid tissue donation collection of postmortem tissue from lung cancer patients is a novel approach to cancer research that enables studies of molecular evolution and drug resistance.
Management and outcomes of non–small cell lung cancer patients with rapid progression under second‐or‐more‐line immune checkpoint inhibitors: ERORECI study (GFPC 2016‐04)
Authors: Vergnenegre Alain , Geier Margaux , Guisier Florian , Lamy Regine , Comet Bénédicte , Le Garff Gwenaelle , Do Pascal , Janicot Henri , Morel Hugues , Decroisette Chantal , Andre Michel , Falchero Lionel , Paleiron Nicolas , Monnet Isabelle ,   the GFPC Team
Published: November 2019

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been approved as second‐line therapy for advanced non–small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) progressing after platinum‐based chemotherapy. However, some patients' disease progressed rapidly and sometimes exhibited explosive tumor progression. This descriptive, prospective study aimed to assess the characteristics of nonresponders with rapid progression (RP), defined as progression‐free survival (PFS) ≤2 or 2‐4 months under ICIs.

Methods

This analysis included all consecutive ICI‐treated (second‐or‐more line) patients with RP ≤4 months from 1 September 2016 to 31 August 2017 and compared the clinical characteristics, treatments, and outcomes (overall survival [OS]; responses; PFS, according to treatment line) of NSCLCs that progressed after ≤2 vs 2‐4 months on ICIs.

Results

Comparisons of the 224 (70.2%) patients with ≤2‐month and 95 (29.8%) with 2‐ to 4‐month RP revealed the former had less frequent nonsmokers and ECOG PS = 0, more frequent stage IV disease and higher neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio. Their respective ICI PFS rates were: 1.6 [95% CI: 0.1‐2] and 2.7 [2.0‐4.2] months, with 16.5% and 11.6% having partial responses to first‐ and second‐line therapies post‐ICI chemotherapy. Their respective median OS rates were 6.0 and 9.0 months (P ≤ .009). Multivariate analysis retained only PFS of the first‐line therapy pre‐ICI and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio at ICI onset as being significantly associated with ≤2‐month RP.

Conclusion

In the real‐life setting, NSCLC RP on ICI remains a challenge. New descriptive and analytic studies are needed to identify factors predictive of RP.
The role of adiponectin in placentation and preeclampsia
Authors: Adu‐Gyamfi Enoch Appiah , Fondjo Linda Ahenkorah , Owiredu William K.B.A. , Czika Armin , Nelson William , Lamptey Jones , Wang Ying‐Xiong , Ding Yu‐Bin
Published: November 2019

Preeclampsia is not fully understood; and few biomarkers, therapeutic targets, and therapeutic agents for its management have been identified. Original investigative findings suggest that abnormal placentation triggers preeclampsia and leads to hypertension, proteinuria, endothelial dysfunction, and inflammation, which are characteristics of the disease. Because of the regulatory roles that it plays in several metabolic processes, adiponectin has become a cytokine of interest in metabolic medicine. In this review, we have discussed the role of adiponectin in trophoblast proliferation, trophoblast differentiation, trophoblast invasion of the decidua, and decidual angiogenesis, which are the major phases of placentation. Also, we have highlighted the physiological profile of adiponectin in the course of normal pregnancy. Moreover, we have discussed the involvement of adiponectin in hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and proteinuria. Furthermore, we have summarized the reported relationship between the maternal serum adiponectin level and preeclampsia. The available evidence indicates that adiponectin level physiologically falls as pregnancy advances, regulates placentation, and exhibits protective effects against the symptoms of preeclampsia and that while hyperadiponectinemia is evident in normal‐weight preeclamptic women, hypoadiponectinemia is evident in overweight and obese preeclamptic women. Therefore, the clinical use of adiponectin as a biomarker, therapeutic target, or therapeutic agent against the disease looks promising and should be considered.
New Platinum(II) Triazole Thiosemicarbazone Complexes: Analysis of Their Reactivity and Potential Antitumoral Action
Authors: Matesanz Ana I. , Herrero Jorge M. , Faraco Eva J. , Cubo Leticia , Quiroga Adoracion G.
Published: November 2019

The synthesis and characterization of three new platinum complexes, with 3,5‐diacetyl‐1,2,4‐triazole bis(4‐N‐isopropylthiosemicarbazone) as a ligand, are reported. The specific conditions under which solvent coordination takes place are reported and the X‐ray structure of the complex with one solvent molecule of dimethyl sulfoxide is resolved. Analysis of the reactivity of these platinum compounds aids in finding the best solution profile for biological investigations. Then, the interactions of the complexes with biological models, such as calf‐thymus DNA, are studied by using UV spectroscopy and tracking the changes in electrophoretic mobility produced in the supercoiled plasmid DNA model. Initial screening of these potential antitumoral compounds indicates possible selective antitumoral action.
Copper(I) Phosphinooxazoline Complexes: Impact of the Ligand Substitution and Steric Demand on the Electrochemical and Photophysical Properties
Authors: Giereth Robin , Mengele Alexander K. , Frey Wolfgang , Kloß Marvin , Steffen Andreas , Karnahl Michael , Tschierlei Stefanie
Published: November 2019

A series of seven homoleptic CuI complexes based on hetero‐bidentate P^N ligands was synthesized and comprehensively characterized. In order to study structure–property relationships, the type, size, number and configuration of substituents at the phosphinooxazoline (phox) ligands were systematically varied. To this end, a combination of X‐ray diffraction, NMR spectroscopy, steady‐state absorption and emission spectroscopy, time‐resolved emission spectroscopy, quenching experiments and cyclic voltammetry was used to assess the photophysical and electrochemical properties. Furthermore, time‐dependent density functional theory calculations were applied to also analyze the excited state structures and characteristics. Surprisingly, a strong dependency on the chirality of the respective P^N ligand was found, whereas the specific kind and size of the different substituents has only a minor impact on the properties in solution. Most importantly, all complexes except C3 are photostable in solution and show fully reversible redox processes. Sacrificial reductants were applied to demonstrate a successful electron transfer upon light irradiation. These properties render this class of photosensitizers as potential candidates for solar energy conversion issues.
Enantioanalysis of tryptophan in whole blood samples using stochastic sensors—A screening test for gastric cancer
Authors: Ilie‐Mihai Ruxandra‐Maria , Stefan‐van Staden Raluca‐Ioana , Magerusan Lidia , Coros Maria , Pruneanu Stela
Published: November 2019

Tryptophan is a key amino acid related to metabolomics in gastric cancer. To date, methods were developed only for the assay of l‐tryptophan, the role of d‐tryptophan being not yet established. Therefore, four stochastic sensors based on different graphene materials modified with β‐cyclodextrins, 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl, and protoporphyrin IX were designed and used for enantioanalysis of tryptophan in whole blood samples. High sensitivities, and reliabilities were recorded when the stochastic sensors were used for the enantioanalysis of tryptophan in whole blood samples. The paper opened a new chapter in early detection of gastric cancer, based on establishing the role of d‐tryptophan in metabolomics, and in early diagnosis of gastric cancer.
CO2‐neutrale Fischer‐Tropsch‐Kraftstoffe aus dezentralen modularen Anlagen: Status und Perspektiven
Authors: Kirsch Hannah , Brübach Lucas , Loewert Marcel , Riedinger Michael , Gräfenhahn Alexander , Böltken Tim , Klumpp Michael , Pfeifer Peter , Dittmeyer Roland
Published: November 2019

Angesichts ausbleibender Erfolge bei der Reduktion der CO2‐Emission im Verkehr treten zunehmend auch synthetische Kraftstoffe aus CO2 und erneuerbarer elektrischer Energie in den Fokus. Für diesen sog. Power‐to‐Liquid(PtL)‐Ansatz werden neben konventionellen Technologien für Großanlagen auch intensivierte Technologien für dezentrale Anlagen in Betracht gezogen. Der Beitrag gibt einen Überblick über den Entwicklungsstand und die Perspektiven kompakter Anlagen für dezentrale PtL‐Verfahren auf Basis der Fischer‐Tropsch‐Synthese.
Organic Ligand‐Free Hydroformylation with Rh Particles as Catalyst†
Authors: Liu Shujuan , Dai Xingchao , Wang Hongli , Wang Xinzhi , Shi Feng
Published: November 2019

Summary of main observation and conclusion

An efficient and organic ligand‐free heterogeneous catalytic system for hydroformylation of olefins is highly desirable for both academy and industry. In this study, simple Rh black was employed as a heterogeneous catalyst for hydroformylation of olefins in the absence of organic ligand. The Rh black catalyst showed good catalytic activity for a broad substrate scope including the aliphatic and aromatic olefins, affording the desired aldehydes in good yields. Taking the hydroformylation of ethylene as an example, 86% yield of propanal and TOF of 200 h–1 were obtained, which was superior to the reported homogeneous catalytic systems. In addition, the catalyst could be reused five times without loss of activity under identical reaction conditions, and the Rh leaching was negligible after each cycle.
Characterizing the nature of worry in a sample of perinatal women with generalized anxiety disorder
Authors: Goldfinger Corrie , Green Sheryl M. , Furtado Melissa , McCabe Randi E.
Published: November 2019

Prevalence of perinatal anxiety disorders continues to grow, with estimates greater than those of postpartum depression. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is the most commonly reported perinatal anxiety disorder, yet very little is known about the worry content experienced during the perinatal period in those with GAD. This study investigated worry content and frequency in a sample of perinatal women (n = 20) and age‐matched nonperinatal women (n = 20) diagnosed with GAD. Participants completed the Penn State Worry Questionnaire (PSWQ) to assess worry severity, in addition to providing their current top worries. Mean scores on the PSWQ in both samples exceeded a clinical cut‐off score of 65, and thematic analyses revealed that perinatal women experienced significantly greater parental‐themed worries compared with the nonperinatal GAD sample (p < .05). Capturing the unique content of worry for perinatal woman will assist clinicians in identifying treatment targets and may enhance treatment outcome.
Hierarchical Tubular‐Structured MoSe2 Nanosheets/N‐Doped Carbon Nanocomposite with Enhanced Sodium Storage Properties
Authors: Kim Jin Koo , Lim Ko Eun , Hwang Won Jeong , Kang Yun Chan , Park Seung‐Keun
Published: November 2019

Intimately coupled carbon/molybdenum‐based hierarchical nanostructures are promising anodes for high‐performance sodium‐ion batteries owing to the combined effects of the two components and their robust structural stability. Mo–polydopamine (PDA) complexes are appealing precursors for the preparation of various Mo‐based nanostructures containing N‐doped carbon (NC). A facile method for the fabrication of hierarchical tubular nanocomposites with intimately coupled MoSe2 and NC nanosheets has been developed, which involves the preparation of Mo–PDA hybrid nanotubes through a chemical route followed by two heat treatments. The strong coupling between Mo anions and the catechol groups in dopamine not only restricts the crystallite size but also inhibits agglomeration during selenization, resulting in few‐layered MoSe2 nanosheets embedded in hierarchical NC substrates. The as‐synthesized nanotube composites are constructed by assembling primary MoSe2/NC nanosheets. This unique structure not only increases the number of active sites but also shortens the diffusion length of ions and enhances the electronic conductivity of electrode materials. The as‐synthesized hierarchical MoSe2/NC nanotubes deliver a high capacity of 429 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 after the 150th cycle when used as anodes in sodium‐ion batteries. Furthermore, at a high current density of 10 A g−1, a high discharge capacity of 236 mAh g−1 is achieved.
Aerodynamic and energy‐efficiency‐based assessment of plasma actuator's position on a NACA0015 airfoil
Authors: Akbıyık Hürrem , Yavuz Hakan , Akansu Yahya E.
Published: November 2019

In recent years, there has been an increase in the number of research papers on plasma and its use in active flow control applications. The main objective of this study is to assess the plasma actuator's position on a NACA0015 airfoil in terms of aerodynamic forces. In addition, optimization of the plasma actuator's position and its configuration are studied in order to identify the optimum configuration for improvement in lift coefficient. The experiments are conducted in an open‐suction‐type wind tunnel at Reynolds numbers of 48,000, 75,000, and 100,000. The plasma actuators are mounted on various positions (x/C) starting from the leading edge to trailing edge of the airfoil. The experimental results on aerodynamic force measurement are presented to illustrate the increasing lift effect of the generated plasma. It is also shown that the plasma actuators used as an active flow control device appears to shift the stall angle of the airfoil. The results of the experimental study suggest that the energy efficiency of airborne systems can be improved with the use of plasma actuators due to its increasing lift coefficient effect. This result becomes a vital finding considering that the same flight can be achieved with less fuel and less amount of environmental pollution for the same distance of journey. It is also worth mentioning that increasing lift effect would mean taking off from a shorter runway or allowing the airborne vehicle with the ability to fly with additional payload.