bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body composition is prognostic and predictive of ipilimumab activity in metastatic melanoma
Authors: Chu Michael P. , Li Yuetong , Ghosh Sunita , Sass Shelley , Smylie Michael , Walker John , Sawyer Michael B.
Published: February 2020

Background

Body composition is minimally investigated in an immunotherapy era. Specific body composition signals such as myosteatosis may reflect aspects of patients' immunology and thereby their ability to respond to immunotherapies. Ipilimumab is a key checkpoint inhibitor in metastatic melanoma. As an antibody, it may also be more accurately dosed using body composition parameters rather than weight alone. This retrospective study aimed to investigate body composition‐based dosing and outcomes.

Methods

Pretreatment computed tomography images from metastatic melanoma, ipilimumab‐treated patients from 2009 to 2014 were used to measure myosteatosis [skeletal muscle radiographic density or SMD, in Hounsfield units (HU)] and surface area (cm2) as previously described. Cut point analysis determined whether a level of ipilimumab dose and myosteatosis demonstrated differences in progression‐free (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Secondary endpoints included objective response rates and toxicities.

Results

Of 121 identified, 97 patients were evaluable. Baseline demographics included 56 years median age, 60% male participants, and 23.7% with BRAF mutations. SMD analysis identified cut‐offs of SMD < 42 in those with BMI < 25 kg/m2 and <20 HU in those with BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2, respectively. Low SMD patients had poorer median PFS [2.4 vs. 2.7 months, hazard ratio (HR) 1.76, P = 0.008] and OS (5.4 vs. 17.5 months, HR 2.47, P = 0.001), which remained significant in multivariate modelling. High SMD patients had more immune‐related adverse events, better objective response rates (17.9 vs. 3.3%, P = 0.051), and lower baseline neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (21 vs. 39%, P = 0.049). Separately, patients receiving <2.03 mg/cm2 had improved median PFS (3.0 vs. 2.6 months, HR 1.88, P = 0.02) and OS (14.9 vs. 5.7 months, HR 1.98, P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Low SMD and receiving >2.03 mg/cm2 are prognostic of poorer melanoma outcomes post ipilimumab. SMD may identify patients with flawed immunology and predict who may better respond to such therapy. Ipilimumab dosing by skeletal muscle index stands in contrast to weight‐based dosing and may demonstrate a more accurate method of antibody dosing.
The emerging roles of circular RNAs in CNS injuries
Authors: Qu Xiaolin , Li Zhenxing , Chen Jigang , Hou Lijun
Published: February 2020

With high morbidity and mortality worldwide, injuries to the central nervous system (CNS) usually result in devastating consequences. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully understood and current therapies are still limited. Circular RNA (circRNA) is a novel type of endogenous noncoding RNAs, characterized by covalently closed annular structure. It is gradually recognized that circRNAs are involved in multiple biological processes, such as acting as microRNA sponges or scaffolds during the assembly of protein complex and modulating the transcription of certain genes. Interestingly, circRNAs have been found to be highly expressed in the CNS, which indicates their neurospecificity. Several circRNAs have already been discovered to be associated with multiple pathophysiological processes following neurological diseases. Currently, the molecular roles of circRNAs in CNS injuries have gained increasing attention, leading to uninterrupted relevant researches. Herein, we presented a review of current studies on the role of circRNAs in CNS injuries. The therapeutic potency of circRNAs in CNS injuries was also analyzed.
Improving daily precipitation estimates for the Qinghai‐Tibetan plateau based on environmental similarity
Authors: Wang Yudan , Kong Yunfeng , Chen Hao , Zhao Lin
Published: February 2020

Due to the scarcity of gauge observations and inaccuracy of satellite estimation, obtaining reliable daily precipitation estimates over the Qinghai‐Tibetan Plateau (QTP) remains challenging. In this article, an integrated scheme is developed based on the assumption that in a specific climatic region, the similarity of environmental conditions related to precipitation (SEP) in two locations is positively correlated to the similarities of occurrence and magnitude of precipitation between them. First, the QTP was divided into the northwestern arid, middle semi‐arid/semi‐humid, and southeastern humid climatic sub‐regions by grouping analysis. Second, based on modified weighted k‐nearest neighbour model, daily precipitation of target locations in these climatic sub‐regions were predicted by weighted regression of a group of gauge observations that have the largest SEP with the target locations. SEP was calculated by the following auxiliary environmental factors: longitude, latitude, elevation, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index, relative humidity, and CMORPH (Climate Prediction Center's morphing technique) daily precipitation estimates (original CMORPH). The validation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed scheme. Compared with the original CMORPH and PDF‐calibrated CMORPH (CMORPH calibrated by probability density function matching plus optimal interpolation method) at daily, monthly, and yearly scales, the scheme improves the rain/no rain detection capacity and the accuracy of daily precipitation estimates. In addition, the daily precipitation estimates obtained from this scheme can present significant discrimination over specific geographic units, particularly the Qaidam Basin, the great bend of the Brahmaputra River, and Hengduan Mountain.
Safety and Outcomes of Early Enteral Nutrition in Circulatory Shock
Authors: Patel Jayshil J. , Rice Todd , Heyland Daren K.
Published: February 2020

Circulatory shock is one of the most common reasons for an intensive care unit admission, has been shown to impair gut barrier and immune functions, and promotes dysbiosis. The exact timing and dose of enteral nutrition (EN) in circulatory shock remains unclear. In fact, because of fear of complications such as nonocclusive mesenteric ischemia and bowel necrosis and splanchnic steal phenomenon, clinicians may hesitate to start EN in critically ill patients with circulatory shock. In this narrative review, we identify and appraise contemporary evidence evaluating the safety and outcomes of EN in circulatory shock.
Analysis of volatile organic compounds in indoor environments using thermal desorption with comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography and high‐resolution time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Veenaas Cathrin , Ripszam Matyas , Haglund Peter
Published: February 2020

Building‐related health effects are frequently observed. Several factors have been listed as possible causes including temperature, humidity, light conditions, presence of particulate matter, and microorganisms or volatile organic compounds. To be able to link exposure to specific volatile organic compounds to building‐related health effects, powerful and comprehensive analytical methods are required. For this purpose, we developed an active air sampling method that utilizes dual‐bed tubes loaded with TENAX‐TA and Carboxen‐1000 adsorbents to sample two parallel air samples of 4 L each. For the comprehensive volatile organic compounds analysis, an automated thermal desorption comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography high‐resolution time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry method was developed and used. It allowed targeted analysis of approximately 90 known volatile organic compounds with relative standard deviations below 25% for the vast majority of target volatile organic compounds. It also allowed semiquantification (no matching standards) of numerous nontarget air contaminants using the same data set. The nontarget analysis workflow included peak finding, background elimination, feature alignment, detection frequency filtering, and tentative identification. Application of the workflow to air samples from 68 indoor environments at a large hospital complex resulted in a comprehensive volatile organic compound characterization, including 178 single compounds and 13 hydrocarbon groups.
Effect of difluoroacetic acid and biological matrices on the development of a liquid chromatography–triple quadrupole mass spectrometry method for determination of intact growth factor proteins
Authors: Maráková Katarína , Rai Alex J. , Schug Kevin A.
Published: February 2020

In biological systems, variable protein expression is a crucial marker for numerous diseases, including cancer. The vast majority of liquid chromatography–triple quadrupole mass spectrometry‐based quantitative protein assays use bottom‐up methodologies, where proteins are subjected to proteolytic cleavage prior to analysis. Here, the effect of difluoroacetic acid and biological matrices on the developement of a multiple reaction monitoring based top‐down reversed‐phase liquid chromatography–triple quadrupole mass spectrometry method for analysis of cancer‐related intact proteins was evaluated. Seven growth factors (5.5–26.5 kDa; isoelectric points: 4.6–9.9) were analyzed on a wide‐pore C4 column. The optimized method was performed at 30°C, using a 0.2 mL/min flow rate, a 10 %B/min gradient slope, and 0.05% v/v difluoroacetic acid as a mobile phase modifier. The increase of mass spectrometry sensitivity due to the difluoroacetic acid (estimated limits of detection in biological matrices 1–500 ng/mL) significantly varied for proteins with lower and higher charge state distributions. Matrix effects, as well as the specificity of the method were assessed for variable biological samples and pretreatment methods. This work demonstrates method development to improve the ability to target intact proteins directly by more affordable triple quadrupole mass spectrometry instrumentation, which could be beneficial in many application fields.
Autologous platelet concentrates in maxillofacial regenerative therapy
Authors: Chou Tsau‐Mau , Chang Hong‐Po , Wang Jen‐Chyan
Published: February 2020

Platelet concentrates have emerged as innovative autologous blood products that enhance tissue healing and regeneration in regenerative therapy. A common feature of these products is their higher than baseline platelet concentration, which improves wound healing and tissue repair. Four main categories of products can be easily defined, based on their leukocyte content and fibrin architecture: pure platelet‐rich plasma, such as Cell Separator PRP or Anitua' PRGF; leukocyte‐ and platelet‐rich plasma (L‐PRP), such as PCCS or Ace PRP; pure platelet‐rich fibrin (P‐PRF), such as Fibrinet PRFM; and leukocyte‐ and platelet‐rich fibrin (L‐PRF), such as Choukroun's PRF. Two families contain significant concentrations of leukocytes: L‐PRP and L‐PRF. These four families of products have different biological signatures and mechanisms and obviously different clinical applications. An L‐PRF membrane releases growth factors and matrix proteins over a period longer than 7 days, whereas a PRP gel matrix releases and disperses its growth factors in a relatively quick download. In the near future, simple and inexpensive products such as L‐PRF are expected to have applications in oral‐maxillofacial surgery, periodontal surgery, plastic surgery, orthopedic surgery, and sports medicine. Leukocytes substantially affect the intrinsic biology and properties of platelet concentrates, not only because they enhance immune function and antibacterial potential, but also because they have essential roles in the wound healing process. Unfortunately, their impact has been almost completely neglected in the literature. Improved understanding of the effects of leukocytes in wound healing is essential for development of new clinical applications of platelet concentrates.
Spatiotemporal characteristics analysis of multifunctional cultivated land: A case‐study in Shenyang, Northeast China
Authors: Qian Fengkui , Chi Yanru , Lal Rattan
Published: February 2020

The configuration of multifunctional cultivated land is critical for its protection. Although studies on multifunctional cultivated land have been conducted, there is a lack of information regarding the spatiotemporal characteristics and tradeoff synergy relationship of cultivated‐land functions at the same time on a nonadministrative unit scale. The purpose of this study was to analyze the spatial distribution characteristics and the tradeoff synergy areas from the perspective of multifunctional cultivated land for efficient use of land resources to minimize the conflict between people and nature. The fuzzy optimization model and spatial autocorrelation analysis method were used to study spatial distribution characteristics and the tradeoff synergy spatial patterns, respectively. The results showed that (a) the implementation of different improvement measures for the spatial distribution characteristics of cultivated‐land functions could also accelerate the coordinated development of cultivated‐land functions, (b) multiple functions of cultivated land not only had a synergy trend in time, but they also had a heterogeneity and fluctuation in spatial distribution, providing a direction for the new development or management pattern of cultivated land, and (c) results on the multifunctional evaluation and tradeoff synergy relationship of cultivated land provided the foundation for determining the short‐board function and upgrading direction of cultivated land. At the grid scale, the evolution of functional distribution characteristics and functional relationships are helpful for decision‐makers to implement accurately farmland protection policies and formulate farmland regulation rules.
Aza‐Michael Addition Chemistry for Tuning the Phase Separation of PDMS/PEG Blend Coatings and Their Anti‐Fouling Potentials
Authors: Gu Yunjiao , Zhou Shuxue , Yang Jinlong
Published: February 2020

Free adjustment of micro/nanophase‐separation degrees in coatings is not easily accessible, which is a big handicap in the development of phase‐separation‐related applications. Here, by utilizing the reactivity difference between two phases, a two‐step aza‐Michael addition pre‐crosslinking strategy, demonstrated by acryloxy‐terminated polydimethylsiloxane/polyethylene glycol (PEG) blend coatings, is proposed for the first time to tune microphase separation degrees, and promote compatibility of the biphasic amphiphilic polymer blends. Followed by a systematic study of the two‐step pre‐crosslinking time, surface morphologies of samples with desired phase‐separation degrees are unveiled using optical microscopy, AFM, and XPS. The wettability, and anti‐fouling properties — for example, anti‐protein and anti‐marine bacterial (Shewanella) adhesion — of these coatings are assessed. Less protein adsorption is observed on those surfaces with lower receding water contact angles. Shewanella adhesion is efficiently discouraged by the introduction of PEG segments, but the trend evolved with surface wettability and micro/nanophase structure in a complex way.
NLRB Opens Door for Employers to Revise Their Rules About Wearing Pins or Buttons
Authors: Wich Scott
Published: February 2020

In yet another instance of revisiting and revising prior National Labor Relations Board rules, the Board has recently applied a new analysis to the question of when an employer may lawfully prohibit employees from wearing buttons or pins, including those that support a union. The analysis in Wal‐Mart Stores, Inc. should be useful to many employers that devote substantial time and resources to promoting and safeguarding their company's image and reputation. Sometimes such efforts include uniforms or dress codes to present a professional image. Other times, employers simply expect employees to conduct themselves in a way that does not cast the company in a bad light, including wearing certain types of buttons at work. However, workers are not always of the same opinion and can appear at work—and in front of customers—wearing a variety of messages that are not company‐approved. In one recent real‐world example, the NLRB required AT&T to permit employees to wear buttons in front of customers that included messages such as “WTF AT$T” and “CUT the CRAP!”
Effect of metabolosome encapsulation peptides on enzyme activity, coaggregation, incorporation, and bacterial microcompartment formation
Authors: Juodeikis Rokas , Lee Matthew J. , Mayer Matthias , Mantell Judith , Brown Ian R. , Verkade Paul , Woolfson Derek N. , Prentice Michael B. , Frank Stefanie , Warren Martin J.
Published: February 2020

Metabolosomes, catabolic bacterial microcompartments (BMCs), are proteinaceous organelles that are associated with the breakdown of metabolites such as propanediol and ethanolamine. They are composed of an outer multicomponent protein shell that encases a specific metabolic pathway. Protein cargo found within BMCs is directed by the presence of an encapsulation peptide that appears to trigger aggregation before the formation of the outer shell. We investigated the effect of three distinct encapsulation peptides on foreign cargo in a recombinant BMC system. Our data demonstrate that these peptides cause variations in enzyme activity and protein aggregation. We observed that the level of protein aggregation generally correlates with the size of metabolosomes, while in the absence of cargo BMCs self‐assemble into smaller compartments. The results agree with a flexible model for BMC formation based around the ability of the BMC shell to associate with an aggregate formed due to the interaction of encapsulation peptides.
An Improved Model for Polyether Production from 1,3‐Propanediol
Authors: Dieu Vo Anh‐Duong , Elraghy Aly , Spence Rupert E. , McAuley Kimberley B.
Published: February 2020

A dynamic mathematical model is developed for production of Cerenol polyether from 1,3‐propanediol in a batch reactor system. The model accounts for polycondensation reactions and side reactions in the liquid phase and for mass transfer of volatile species to the vapor. Parameters are estimated using measured liquid‐phase concentrations of monomer, oligomers, water, and end groups as well as the mass and composition of condensate collected from the overhead condenser system. The proposed model uses novel probability factors to keep the model equations relatively simple while accounting for the complex influence of superacid catalyst on reaction rates. The model is a significant advance over previous Cerenol models because it better accounts for mass‐transfer rates and for the dynamic behavior of the condenser. In addition, the proposed model accounts for the inhibitory influence of water on polycondensation kinetics due to hydration of hydroxyl ends. The model equations and parameter estimates provide a substantial improvement in fit to the data, especially for long reaction times and high catalyst levels, resulting in a 97% reduction in the value of the weighted least squared objective function compared to equations and parameters from a previous model.
Neuromuscular ultrasound for taxane peripheral neuropathy in breast cancer
Authors: Lycan Thomas W. , Hsu Fang‐Chi , Ahn Christine S. , Thomas Alexandra , Walker Francis O. , Sangueza Omar P. , Shiozawa Yusuke , Park Sun Hee , Peters Christopher M. , Romero‐Sandoval Edgar Alfonso , Melin Susan A. , Sorscher Steven , Ansley Katherine , Lesser Glenn J. , Cartwright Michael S. , Strowd Roy E.
Published: February 2020

Background

Our study aim was to evaluate neuromuscular ultrasound (NMUS) for the assessment of taxane chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), the dose‐limiting toxicity of this agent.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study of breast cancer patients with taxane CIPN measured nerve cross‐sectional area (CSA) by NMUS and compared with healthy historical controls. Correlations were determined between CSA and symptom scale, nerve conduction studies, and intraepidermal nerve fiber density (IENFD).

Results

A total of 20 participants reported moderate CIPN symptoms at a median of 3.8 months following the last taxane dose. Sural nerve CSA was 1.2 mm2 smaller than healthy controls (P ≤ .01). Older age and time since taxane were associated with smaller sural nerve CSA. For each 1 mm2 decrease in sural nerve CSA, distal IENFD decreased by 2.1 nerve/mm (R2 0.30; P = .04).

Conclusions

These data support a sensory predominant taxane neuropathy or neuronopathy and warrant future research on longitudinal NMUS assessment of CIPN.
Analysis of moth flame optimization optimized cascade proportional‐integral‐proportional‐derivative controller with filter for automatic generation control system incorporating solar thermal power plant
Authors: Acharyulu B. V. S. , Mohanty Banaja , Hota P. K.
Published: February 2020

In the fast developing electric power system network, ancillary services like automatic generation control (AGC) plays a vital and significant role to ensure good quality of power supply in the system. To distribute good quality of power, a hybrid AGC system along with an efficient and intelligent controller is compelled. So, in this article, a cascaded proportional‐integral (PI)‐proportional‐derivative (PD) controller with filter (PI‐PDF) is proposed as secondary controller for AGC system. A nature inspired optimization algorithm named as moth flame optimization (MFO) algorithm is employed for simultaneous optimization of controller gains. Initially, a two‐area interconnected nonreheat thermal power system is investigated. Analysis revealed that MFO‐tuned PI controller performs better than the different optimization techniques tuned PI controller for the same system and PI‐PDF controller performs better than PI controller does. Then, the study is extended to a three‐area interconnected hybrid system with proper generation rate constraint. Area‐1 consists of solar thermal‐thermal unit; area‐2 consists of thermal‐hydro unit and area‐3 thermal‐gas unit as generating sources. Performance of PI‐PDF controller is compared with classical controllers such as PI, PID, PIDF, and PI‐PD controller without filter. Result analysis divulges that MFO‐tuned PI‐PDF controller performs better than all other controllers considered in this article. Robustness of the PI‐PDF controller is evaluated using parameter variations and random load variation.
Political exchanges of value and the stakeholder concept: Implications for public affairs
Authors: Ormrod Robert P.
Published: February 2020

The political marketing exchange is triadic in structure, as promises given by political actors in the context of an election campaign can only be reciprocated if 1. the political actor is selected, 2. has influence over legislation negotiations, and 3. is in a position to deliver on these promises. In each of these three ‘interaction marketplaces’, political actors are indirectly influenced by stakeholders. These ‘indirect stakeholders’ are often public affairs practitioners engaged in lobbying activities in the political sphere. This paper integrates the triadic interaction model of political marketing exchange with the political marketing stakeholder concept and highlights how public affairs practitioners can target their efforts for maximum benefit. This aim is motivated by a need to increase our understanding of how political marketing theory can help political actors and their stakeholders to optimise the resources that are used on marketing activities across the electoral cycle.
Design of pipe diameter of polyester‐ramie nonwoven lining material for pipeline rehabilitation
Authors: Fu Lisong , Zhang Shujie , Wang Rui , Fang Shu , Li Danyang , Ma Tianshuai , Zhao Xuecheng
Published: February 2020

In order to solve the problems of pipe diameter of polyester‐ramie nonwoven lining material used for sewage pipelines rehabilitation, the mathematical model of pipe diameter of lining material was established by using elastic mechanics method and composite piping design. The mixing ratio, the fiber web quantification and the needle‐punched density were selected to optimize the manufacturing process of polyester‐ramie nonwoven with thermal shrinkage rate and elongations at break, the results showed that the mixing ratio was 0.7, and the fiber web quantification was 600 g/m2, and the needle‐punched density was 180 thron/cm2. Under this process, the thermal shrinkage rate is 8.72%, and the elongation at break is 83%, which is close to the theoretical value, indicating that the response surface method has practical application value. Combined with the mathematical model and the optimal condition of manufacturing process, the design extremum of pipe diameter of lining material for sewage pipelines with different pipe diameters is predicted, which provides the theoretical basis for the preparation of polyester‐ramie nonwoven composites for pipeline rehabilitation.
Knowledge and attitude towards TMS: a brief educational intervention
Authors: Yonel Hakan , Abdelghani Mohamed
Published: February 2020

In December 2015 NICE recognised the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a viable option in the management of treatment‐resistant depression. Despite this, uptake of the technique has been slow and only a small number of machines are currently in use across the UK. Here the authors describe an educational initiative to increase clinicians’ knowledge of TMS.
Bruxism and psychotropic medications
Authors: Reyad Ayman Antoun , Girgis Eriny , Ayoub Amin , Mishriky Raafat
Published: February 2020

Bruxism as a side‐effect of psychotropic medications could result in significant consequences for oral health such as tooth structure destruction and irreversible harm to the temporomandibular joint. The review findings uncovered by these authors can assist in understanding the aetiology of bruxism, establishing an appropriate management plan, while supporting psychiatrists and dentists to detect temporomandibular dysfunctions such as bruxism.
Dopant Activation of In Situ Phosphorus‐Doped Silicon Using Multi‐Pulse Nanosecond Laser Annealing
Authors: Shin Hyunsu , Lee Minhyung , Ko Eunjung , Ryu Hwa-yoen , Park Seran , Kim Eunha , Ko Dae-Hong
Published: February 2020

In situ phosphorus‐doped epitaxial silicon films have attracted significant attention as source and drain materials because low specific contact resistivities have been achieved on such films by increasing the active carrier concentration using millisecond laser annealing. However, the active phosphorus concentration that can be achieved using millisecond laser annealing is much less than the incorporated concentration. To increase the activation efficiency, nanosecond laser annealing with a dwell time ≈104 times shorter than that of millisecond laser annealing is investigated and the diffusion, strain, microstructure, and electrical properties of single‐ and multipulse nanosecond laser‐annealed samples are examined. The melting depth simulation classifies the energy density regions and explains the limited diffusion in nanosecond laser annealing. After multipulse nanosecond laser annealing, more phosphorus is activated without diffusion than by millisecond laser annealing. Moreover, almost all the incorporated phosphorus atoms are activated by the nanosecond laser, which melts in situ phosphorus‐doped epitaxial silicon films without major strain loss. The increased active carrier concentration presents an opportunity to achieve low contact resistivity characteristics.
Left ventricular dysfunction in an idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis patient on nintedanib
Authors: Imai Ryosuke , Tomishima Yutaka
Published: February 2020

Nintedanib, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, is approved for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. We report a case of left ventricular dysfunction in a patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis treated with nintedanib, which recovered after cessation of nintedanib. Nintedanib may induce left ventricular dysfunction, and early recognition is important since this condition is potentially reversible.
Influence of Water on the Recovery of Lube Oil Dewaxing Solvent Using P84 Polyimide Membrane: A Combination of Experiment and Molecular Simulation
Authors: Xin Yishuang , Yin Fengxiang
Published: February 2020

Water in lube oil solution will affect the result of dewaxing solvent recovery by membrane. Three factors that affect the permeation of solvent molecules through P84 membrane and the interaction between water and dewaxing solvent were studied by combination of density functional theory (DFT) method, molecular dynamics (MD) and grand canonical Monte Carlo (GCMC) simulation. The results suggested that there is a stronger interaction between water and butanone than interactions between other molecules in dewaxing solvent. With the increase of water content in dewaxing solvent, the diffusion rate of dewaxing solvent to the membrane surface decreased, the number of butanone molecules adsorbed on the membrane surface increased slightly. However, both the total number of dewaxing solvent adsorbed and the diffusion rate of that in the membrane material decreased. In other words, the strong interaction between water and butanone reduces the penetration rate of dewaxing solvent through the membrane, which explains the experimental results. These results will be helpful for understanding of the membrane separation process deeply, and designing the membrane separation process.
Towards NIR‐Active Hydroxybenzazole (HBX)‐Based ESIPT Motifs: A Recent Research Trend
Authors: Mishra Virendra R. , Ghanavatkar Chaitannya W. , Sekar Nagaiyan
Published: February 2020

In this review, we have explored the synthetic strategies adopted for designing the hydroxybenzazoles (imidazole, oxazole, and thiazole) i. e. HBX derivatives which show emission in red and NIR region. Further, we have examined the effect of different substituents i. e. either directly attached or with extended conjugation on a phenolic ring/ phenyl ring of heterocycles to achieve a red to NIR shift in emission. Finally, we have investigated the applications and computational methodologies adopted for red to NIR emitting dyes. In the future, this review will help to design, synthesized and examine the applications of new derivatives of HBX which will show emission in red to NIR region.
Detergent‐Assisted Braking of Peptide Translocation through a Single‐Layer Molybdenum Disulfide Nanopore
Authors: Si Wei , Sun Qianyi , Chen Chang , Yu Meng , Sha Jingjie , Zhang Yin , Kan Yajing , Chen Yunfei
Published: February 2020

Protein sequencing holds the key to unveiling protein dynamics, which is significant for molecular diagnostics and drug design. Single‐molecule sensing based on 2D nanopores is a versatile technique for realizing low‐cost and high‐throughput protein sequencing targets. However, the remaining challenge is that protein translocates rapidly through nanopores, where few current signals can be gathered for accurate protein sequencing. It is theoretically found that adding nonionic detergents to a solution can slow protein molecules by almost one order when they permeate through a 1.4 nm MoS2 nanopore that is slightly larger than the diameter of the peptide but smaller than the diameter of the protein–detergent complex. This slowdown is due to the strong interaction between the hydrophobic parts of the peptide and detergents. Although detergent molecules are added to the system, ionic current blockade levels can be observed for different residues, indicating that the nonionic detergents are excellent candidates for controlling protein translocation process but do not affect the discrimination of single amino acids. This theoretical work motivates experimental efforts in this area and paves a new way for protein manipulation that brings the nanopore technique closer to satisfying the requirement of high‐precision nanopore protein sequencing.
Constitutive activity of a G protein-coupled receptor, DRD1, contributes to human cerebral organoid formation
Authors: Wang Qinying , Dong Xiaoxu , Lu Jing , Hu Tingting , Pei Gang
Published: February 2020

The intricate balance of neural stem cell (NSC) amplification and neurogenesis is central to nervous system development. Dopamine D1 receptor (DRD1) is a typical G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) mainly expressed in neurogenic area, with high constitutive activity. The receptor appears in the embryonic period before the formation of mature synaptic contacts, which indicates that dopamine receptor and its constitutive activity play crucial roles in the embryonic brain development. Here, we found that DRD1 was enriched in human NSCs. Inhibition of the receptor activity by its inverse agonists promoted human NSCs proliferation and impeded its differentiation. These results were also mimicked by genetic knockdown of DRD1, which also blocked the effects of inverse agonists, suggesting a receptor-dependent manner. More interestingly, knock-in A229T mutant with reduced DRD1 constitutive activity by CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing technology resulted into increased endogenous human NSCs proliferation. These results were well reproduced in human cerebral organoids, and inhibition of the DRD1 constitutive activity by its inverse agonists induced the expansion and folding of human cerebral organoids. The anatomic analysis uncovered that decreasing the constitutive activity of DRD1 by its inverse agonists promoted the NSCs proliferation and maintenance that led to hindered cortical neurogenesis. Further mechanistic studies revealed that the PKC-CBP pathway was involved in the regulation by DRD1. Thus, our findings indicate that the constitutive activity of DRD1 and possibly other GPCRs plays an important role in the development of human nervous system.
Modification of Poly(vinyl chloride) Substrates via Schiff's Base for Photochemical Applications
Authors: Abdallh Mustafa , Bufaroosha Muna , Ahmed Ahmed , Ahmed Dina S. , Yousif Emad
Published: February 2020

Modification of poly(vinyl chloride) surface was achieved via introducing a new Schiff base containing 1,2,4‐triazole ring system to the polymer backbone. The new Schiff base containing 1,2,4‐triazole ring and the resulted homogenous polymer (PVC‐L) was characterized using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. Copper chloride was then added to coordinate with homogenous polymer to form PVC‐L‐CuII. The UV stability of the modified polymer was tested under long periods (300 h) of UV‐irradiation. The morphology of the modified surface was investigated by scanning electron microscopy. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 26:475–480, 2020. © 2020 Society of Plastics Engineers
Discharge path observation and the statistical characteristics of discharge paths for long–air gap discharge for in‐operation wind turbines
Authors: Wen Xishan , Deng Yeqiang , Wang Yu , Lan Lei , Qu Lu , Wang Jian , Zhang Tao , Wang Huayun
Published: February 2020

When a wind turbine is in normal operation, the blades are rotating, and this blade rotation may affect the process of lightning striking the wind turbine. To investigate this problem, long‐gap discharge tests are performed in this study. Moreover, a multiple physical parameter synchronous observation platform is designed for a scaled wind turbine. Long‐gap discharge tests of a static and rotary‐scaled wind turbine with blade tip‐electrode gap distances of 1 to 8 m are conducted, and the discharge paths under different gaps and wind turbine operating conditions are obtained. The characteristic parameters—arc shape upon discharge, lengths of the downward and upward leaders, blade angle at the moment of discharge, and angle of upward leader initiation—are statistically analyzed. The analysis of the aforementioned data indicates that rotation has opposite effects on the discharge characteristic parameters under short and long gap distances. According to the analysis, blade rotation reduces the space charge density of the corona discharge near the tip, which leads to an increase in the field strength near the blade tip and a decrease in the field strength away from the blade tip. Short and long gaps have different degrees of influence on discharge, which changes the difficulty of upward leader initiation at the blade tip and consequently alters the entire discharge process. The obtained results can provide a reference for the lightning protection of wind turbines.
Structural Distortion in Perovskite Type KCaH3–xFx (0.54 ≤ x ≤ 3)
Authors: Pflug Christian , Kohlmann Holger
Published: February 2020

Representatives of the solid solution series KCaH3–xFx were synthesized by solid state reactions from binary metal hydrides and fluorides. Crystal structures were analyzed by Rietveld refinement based on X‐ray powder diffraction. The degree of substitution was determined by refinement of site occupancy factors as well as elemental analysis for hydrogen. Three sections of x in KCaH3–xFx can be distinguished. For x < 0.54 no hydride fluoride exists, i.e. there is no hydride of the composition KCaH3 and the solid solution starts only at x = 0.54. The tetragonal SrTiO3 type structure with partial ordering of hydrogen and fluorine atoms is found for 0.54 ≤ x ≤ 1.7. Both anion positions show mixed occupation with some preference of hydrogen atoms for 8h and fluorine atoms for 4a sites (I4/mcm, SrTiO3 type). For fluorine‐rich compounds a solid solution with orthorhombic GdFeO3 type structure (Pnma) and a perfectly statistical distribution of hydrogen and fluorine atoms is found (1.8 ≤ x ≤ 3). Interatomic distances resulting from the structure refinements are in the range of typical K–H, K–F, Ca–H, and Ca–F distances for mainly ionic compounds.
Trialkylaluminum N‐Heterocyclic Olefin (NHO) Adducts as Catalysts for the Polymerization of Michael‐Type Monomers
Authors: Watson Ian C. , Zhou Yuqiao , Ferguson Michael J. , Kränzlein Moritz , Rieger Bernhard , Rivard Eric
Published: February 2020

The synthesis of new trialkylaluminum adducts with N‐heterocyclic olefin (NHO) ligands is described. These well‐defined complexes can catalyze the polymerization of various Michael‐type monomers, such as 2‐vinylpyridine, methylacrylate, and dimethylacrylamide.
Syntheses and Molecular Structures of [(thf)4Li] [{(thf)Li}M(C4H8)3] (M = Zr, Hf) and Their Solution Behavior
Authors: Fischer Reinald , Schmidt Heiner , Younis Fadi M. , Görls Helmar , Suxdorf Regina , Westerhausen Matthias
Published: February 2020

The reaction of MCl4(thf)2 (M = Zr, Hf) with 1,4‐dilitiobutane in diethyl ether at –25 °C or at 0 °C with a molar ratio of 1 : 3 yields the homoleptic “ate” complexes [(thf)4Li] [{(thf)Li}M(C4H8)3] 1‐Zr (M = Zr) and 1‐Hf (M = Hf). The crystalline compounds form ion lattices with solvent‐separated [(thf)4Li]+ cations and [{(thf)Li}M(C4H8)3]– anions. The NMR spectra at –20 °C show magnetic equivalence of the M–CH2 and of the β‐CH2 groups of the butane‐1,4‐diide ligands on the NMR time scale. Analogous reactions of MCl4(thf)2 with 1,4‐dilithiobutane with a molar ratio of 1 : 2 proceed unclear. However, single crystals of [Li(thf)4] [HfCl5(thf)] (2) can be isolated with the hafnium atom in a distorted octahedral coordination sphere of five chloro and one thf ligand. NMR spectra allow to elucidate the time‐dependent degradation of 1‐Hf and 1‐Zr in THF and toluene at 25 °C via THF cleavage. Addition of tmeda to a solution of 1‐Zr allows the isolation of intermediately formed [{(tmeda)Li}2Zr(nBu)2(C4H8)2] (3).
Antiemetic prophylaxis with fosaprepitant and granisetron in pediatric patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Cabanillas Stanchi Karin Melanie , Vek Julia , Schlegel Patrick , Rupprecht Joachim Vincent , Flaadt Tim , Weber Simone , Michaelis Sebastian , Lang Peter , Handgretinger Rupert , Döring Michaela
Published: February 2020

Background

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) is a severe and distressing complication during allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT). The antiemetic fosaprepitant has shown favorable results in pediatric and adult patients receiving chemotherapy. Data on fosaprepitant in children and adolescents undergoing alloHSCT are missing.

Methods

In this non-interventional observation study, 120 children and adolescents with a median age of 11.8 years undergoing alloHSCT after a moderately or highly emetogenic conditioning (MEC or HEC) were analyzed. They received an antiemetic prophylaxis with granisetron (2 × 40 µg/kg d−1) with or without fosaprepitant (4 mg/kg; single dose, max. 1 × 150 mg/kg BW), and were analyzed in the control (CG; n = 60) or fosaprepitant group (FG; n = 60). The efficacy and safety of the two antiemetic prophylaxis regimens were analyzed and compared with respect to the acute (0–24 h) and the delayed (> 24–120 h) CINV phase and > 120–240 h after MEC or HEC administration.

Results

During MEC, significantly more patients in the CG experienced vomiting during the first 0–24 h (58.6 vs. 25.0%; p = 0.0156) and during > 24–120 h (93.1% vs. 57.1%; p = 0.0020), compared with the FG. Likewise, significantly more vomiting events (269 vs. 136; p < 0.0001) were registered in the CG. During HEC, significantly more patients in the CG experienced vomiting during the first 0–24 h (32.3 vs. 9.4%; p = 0.0319) compared with the FG. Significantly more vomiting events (241 vs. 99; p < 0.0001) were registered in the CG. Laboratory and clinical adverse events were not significantly different between the two groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Antiemetic prophylaxis with fosaprepitant and granisetron was well tolerated, safe, and effective in pediatric patients undergoing alloHSCT. However, larger prospective trials are necessary to evaluate these findings.
Co-cultures with integrated in situ product removal for lactate-based propionic acid production
Authors: Selder Ludwig , Sabra Wael , Jürgensen Nikolai , Lakshmanan Alagappan , Zeng An-Ping
Published: February 2020

Propionic acid (PA) is a valuable organic acid for the food and feed industry, but no bioproduction at industrial scale exists so far. As product inhibition is a major burden for bioprocesses producing organic acids, in situ product removal (ISPR) is desirable. Here, we demonstrate a new strategy to produce PA with a co-culture coupled with ISPR using electrodialysis. Specifically, Bacillus coagulans first produces lactic acid (LA) from sugar(s) and LA is converted to PA using Veillonella criceti. Applying ISPR to the mentioned co-culture, the specific PA yield was increased from 0.35 to 0.39 g g−1 compared to no ISPR usage. Furthermore, the productivity was increased from 0.63 to 0.7 g L−1 h−1 by applying ISPR. Additionally, it was shown that co-consumption of xylose and glucose led to a higher PA productivity of 0.73 g L−1 h−1, although PA yield was only increased slightly up to 0.36 g g−1.
Postnatal Effects of Sex Hormones on Click-Evoked Otoacoustic Emissions: A Study of Adolescents with Gender Dysphoria
Authors: Burke Sarah M. , van Heesewijk Jason O. , Menks Willeke M. , Klink Daniel T. , Kreukels Baudewijntje P. C. , Cohen-Kettenis Peggy T. , Bakker Julie
Published: February 2020

Click-evoked otoacoustic emissions (CEOAEs) are echo-like sounds, generated by the inner ear in response to click-stimuli. A sex difference in emission strength is observed in neonates and adults, with weaker CEOAE amplitudes in males. These differences are assumed to originate from testosterone influences during prenatal male sexual differentiation and to remain stable throughout life. However, recent studies suggested activational, postnatal effects of sex hormones on CEOAEs. Adolescents diagnosed with gender dysphoria (GD) may receive gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs (GnRHa) in order to suppress endogenous sex hormones and, therefore, pubertal maturation, followed by cross-sex hormone (CSH) treatment. Using a cross-sectional design, we examined whether hormonal interventions in adolescents diagnosed with GD (62 trans boys, assigned female at birth, self-identifying as male; 43 trans girls, assigned male at birth, self-identifying as female), affected their CEOAEs compared to age- and sex-matched controls (44 boys, 37 girls). Sex-typical differences in CEOAE amplitude were observed among cisgender controls and treatment-naïve trans boys but not in other groups with GD. Treatment-naïve trans girls tended to have more female-typical CEOAEs, suggesting hypomasculinized early sexual differentiation, in support of a prominent hypothesis on the etiology of GD. In line with the predicted suppressive effects of androgens, trans boys receiving CSH treatment, i.e., testosterone plus GnRHa, showed significantly weaker right-ear CEOAEs compared with control girls. A similar trend was seen in trans boys treated with GnRHa only. Unexpectedly, trans girls showed CEOAE masculinization with addition of estradiol. Our findings show that CEOAEs may not be used as an unequivocal measure of prenatal androgen exposure as they can be modulated postnatally by sex hormones, in the form of hormonal treatment.
The High Potential for Waste Heat Recovery in Hybrid Vehicles: A Comparison Between the Potential in Conventional and Hybrid Powertrains
Authors: Kober Martin
Published: February 2020

In future mobility, the mix of different drive trains will probably be much more diverse than it is today. According to a large number of scenario analyses, a predominant number of vehicles will continue to be based on the internal combustion engine (ICE), while an increasing number of hybrid vehicles are expected. To achieve the required reductions in CO2 emissions it is necessary to investigate all potential technologies for efficiency improvement. Therefore in this work the potential of waste heat recovery is examined for conventional and hybrid vehicles. Due to the fact that in an internal combustion engine approximately 2/3 of the fuel's chemical energy dissipates as waste heat, the potential for the recovery of this energy in all ICE driven powertrains is, in principle, high. The results of this work show that in hybrid vehicles the highest share of the energy supplied by the fuel is lost in the exhaust gas. In order to further elaborate this result, we conduct an exemplary examination of two comparable vehicles of the compact class within the worldwide harmonized light duty test cycle. Measurement data from the two vehicles at the roller dynamometer is used. The result shows that the averaged exhaust gas heat flow of the conventional vehicle is 5.0 kW. For the hybrid vehicle, driving in the charge sustaining mode, the averaged exhaust gas heat flow results in 8.1 kW. The comparison shows that the temperature level of this exhaust gas is even higher than that of the conventional vehicle. In addition, this work shows that through the higher temperatures, the exergy in the exhaust gas is higher in hybrid vehicles even if the combustion engine works with a higher efficiency. In the exemplary comparison the averaged exergy of the exhaust gas is 3.2 kW for the conventional and 5.7 kW for the hybrid vehicle. As a result of this work, the high potential for waste heat recovery in hybrid vehicles could be demonstrated.