bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Genetically Engineered” Biofunctional Triboelectric Nanogenerators Using Recombinant Spider Silk
Authors: Zhang Yujia , Zhou Zhitao , Sun Long , Liu Zhen , Xia Xiaoxia , Tao Tiger H.
Published: October 2018

Self‐powered electronics using triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) is drawing increasing efforts and rapid advancements in eco/biocompatible energy harvesting, intelligent sensing, and biomedical applications. Currently, the triboelectric performances are mainly determined by the pair materials’ inherent electron affinity difference, and merely tuned by chemical or physical methods, which significantly limit the optional variety and output capability, especially for natural‐biomaterial‐based TENGs. Herein, a biocompatible triboelectric material with a programmable triboelectric property, multiple functionalization, large‐scale‐fabrication capability, and transcendent output performance is designed, by genetically engineering recombinant spider silk proteins (RSSP). Featuring totally “green” large‐scale manufacturing, the water lithography technique is introduced to the RSSP‐TENG with facilely adjustable surface morphology, chemically modifiable surface properties, and controllable protein conformation. By virtue of the high electrical power, a proof‐of‐principle drug‐free RSSP‐patch is built, showing outstanding antibacterial performances both in vitro and in vivo. This work provides a novel high‐performance biomaterial‐based TENG and extends its potential for multifunctional applications.
Fabrication of Bevel Structures by Means of the Spatial Gradient of Ion Dose in Ar Gas Cluster Ion Beam and Its Unique Characteristics
Authors: Yun Dong‐Jin , Shin Youngsik , Jung Chang Hoon , Lee Jae Cheol , Byun Sunjung , Chung JaeGwan , Heo Sung , Kim Seong Heon
Published: October 2018

For the accurate characterization of organic layered structures, a novel methodology to fabricate the bevel structure is suggested by utilizing the argon cluster ion‐beam sputtering (Ar GCIB), namely, little chemical damage to the organic material and a spatial gradient of ion dose in the sub‐millimeter range. The Ar GCIB sputtering settings are elaborately tuned on the basis of the Faraday/target current, and its optimization condition for preparing the bevel structure is determined. As a standard sample, an organic bevel structure is manufactured from the organic layered structure of C60/boron subphthalocyanine chloride/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) films, and their molecular distributions and chemical/electronic structures are investigated using various analytical techniques, including X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, secondary ion mass spectrometry, Auger electron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and matrix‐free ultraviolet‐laser desorption/ionization. Every experimental result demonstrates clearly that the bevel structure prepared by the method keeps its original molecular distribution and chemical structure. On the contrary, conventional etching techniques such as Ar+ ion beam, focused ion beam, and ion milling cause critical distortion in chemical information without exception. Ultimately, the suggested method, a unique way to prepare a damage‐free organic bevel structure, widens the availability of analytical techniques that have limitations in spatial or depth resolution.
Enhanced Interfacial Adhesion and Thermal Stability in Bismuth Telluride/Nickel/Copper Multilayer Films with Low Electrical Contact Resistance
Authors: Zhu Xudong , Cao Lili , Zhu Wei , Deng Yuan
Published: October 2018

The interfacial property between thermoelectric films and metal electrodes greatly affects the performance and practical application of thin‐film thermoelectric devices. Here, Ni intermediate layer is chosen and inserted into Bi2Te3/Cu to simultaneously regulate the electrical and mechanical performance of the interface. Meanwhile, Ar/H2 plasma cleaning is also adopted to optimize the interfacial connection during the sputtering process. Results show the interfacial element diffusion can be effectively blocked after the introduction of Ni interlayer, and the Bi2Te3/Ni/Cu multilayer thin film performs an excellent interfacial adhesion and maintains a low specific contact resistivity about 2.7 × 10−6 Ω cm2, which can be attributed to the matching of thermal expansion coefficient between Bi2Te3, Ni, and Cu, and the reduction of lattice mismatch. Furthermore, the Ni interlayer can also alleviate the degradation of interfacial mechanical and electrical properties after 1000 cycles of thermal shock, consequently enhancing the reliability and stability of the interfacial connection. This work provides an effective way to improve the comprehensive performance of multilayer interface in thin‐film thermoelectric devices.
mTOR inhibitor therapy as a disease modifying therapy for tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Franz David Neal , Krueger Darcy Andrew
Published: October 2018

Between 1993 and 2003, through experiments involving Drosophila sp., cancer biologists identified the protein kinase known as the mammalian target of rapamycin, its pathway, and its relationship to the genes responsible for tuberous sclerosis. Thereafter, clinical research has resulted in regulatory approval of mTOR inhibitors for four distinct manifestations of the disease: giant cell astrocytoma, angiomyolipoma, lymphangioleiomyomatosis, and epilepsy. These developments are summarized and the practical use of mTOR inhibitors to improve the lives of patients with tuberous sclerosis reviewed.
Foraging strategies underlying bird egg predation by macaques: A study using artificial nests
Authors: Kaisin Olivier , Gazagne Eva , Savini Tommaso , Huynen Marie‐Claude , Brotcorne Fany
Published: October 2018

Bird egg predation is widespread in non‐human primates. Although nest predation is often described as opportunistic, little is known about foraging strategies and nest detection in primates. Since it is the prevalent cause of nest failure in the tropics, birds select nest sites within specific microhabitats and use different nest types to increase nesting success. Identifying the nests targeted by the northern pigtailed macaques (Macaca leonina), an omnivorous cercopithecine species, and known nest predator, will shine light on nest foraging strategies in primates. The aim of this research was to reveal if nest predation is a selective or opportunistic feeding behavior. We studied, using artificial nests and camera traps, the influence of nest type (open‐cup vs. cavity), microhabitat (i.e., understory density, canopy cover, canopy height, ground cover, and presence vs. absence of thorns and lianas), and nest height, on nest predation by a troop of northern pigtailed macaques in the Sakaerat Biosphere Reserve (Thailand), a degraded environment. In our study, macaque predation on artificial nests was high; out of the 200 nests that were set up, 112 were plundered by macaques. Although predation rates decreased with nest height, nest type, and microhabitat had no significant effect on predation by macaques. Nest detectability and accessibility did not affect predation rates. Macaques actively searched for nests in different microhabitats, suggesting that nest predation by this primate might be considered a selective feeding behavior in this degraded habitat. Consequently, nest predation by this primate might have important conservation implications on the population dynamics of forest‐dwelling bird species. Behavior observation methods, such as instantaneous scan sampling, may underestimate nest predation by primates, a furtive and cryptic behavior.
Generation of Slow Surface Plasmon Polaritons in a Complex Waveguide Structure with Electric Current Pump
Authors: Moiseev Sergey G. , Dadoenkova Yuliya S. , Kadochkin Aleksei S. , Fotiadi Andrei A. , Svetukhin Vyacheslav V. , Zolotovskii Igor O.
Published: October 2018

A planar spaser structure composed of semiconducting film and graphene with DC current is proposed and theoretically explored. Graphene possesses velocity of drift current carriers comparable with the phase velocity of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) in ultrathin semiconducting film at the terahertz regime. When the synchronism condition between current and slow surface electromagnetic waves is realized, the amplification of plasmons by electric current takes place. In the proposed complex waveguide structure, positive feedback is realized due to reflections from the edges of the active waveguide, and the SPPs are decoupled into light by a microscopic grating manufactured on the semiconducting film surface.
Dehydrogenative Aromatization and Sulfonylation of Pyrrolidines: Orthogonal Reactivity in Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Muralirajan Krishnamoorthy , Kancherla Rajesh , Rueping Magnus
Published: October 2018

Oxidative dehydrogenative aromatization and selective sulfonylation reactions of N‐heterocycles under visible‐light photoredox catalysis were established. The mild reaction conditions make this approach an appealing and versatile strategy to functionalize/oxidize pyrrolidines whereby arylsulfonyl chlorides were identified to be both catalyst regeneration and sulfonylation reagents.
A Long‐Cycle‐Life Self‐Doped Polyaniline Cathode for Rechargeable Aqueous Zinc Batteries
Authors: Shi Hua‐Yu , Ye Yin‐Jian , Liu Kuan , Song Yu , Sun Xiaoqi
Published: October 2018

Rechargeable aqueous zinc batteries are promising energy‐storage systems for grid applications. Highly conductive polyaniline (PANI) is a potential cathode, but it tends to deactivate in electrolytes with low acidity (i.e. pH >1) owing to deprotonation of the polymer. In this study, we synthesized a sulfo‐self‐doped PANI electrode by a facile electrochemical copolymerization process. The −SO3− self‐dopant functions as an internal proton reservoir to ensure a highly acidic local environment and facilitate the redox process in the weakly acidic ZnSO4 electrolyte. In a full zinc cell, the self‐doped PANI cathode provided a high capacity of 180 mAh g−1, excellent rate performance of 70 % capacity retention with a 50‐fold current‐density increase, and a long cycle life of over 2000 cycles with coulombic efficiency close to 100 %. Our study opens a door for the use of conducting polymers as cathode materials for high‐performance rechargeable zinc batteries.
Gravimetric and quantitative surface morphological studies of Mangifera indica peel extract as a corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 1 M HCl solution
Authors: Ogunleye Oladipupo Olaosebikan , Eletta Omodele A. , Arinkoola Akeem Olatunde , Agbede Oluseye Omotoso
Published: October 2018

Mangifera indica peel extract was evaluated as a corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 1 M HCl using gravimetric and depth of attack techniques. The extract was characterized using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and the corrosion film solution by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Scanning electron microscopy, arithmetic mean deviation of the surface profile (Ra), and the maximum height of irregularities (Rz) were used to characterize mild steel coupon surfaces. Effects of temperature, concentration, and time on the corrosion rate of the coupon with and without M. indica peel extract were evaluated. The adsorption of this inhibitor was found to obey the Freundlich model, and thermodynamic parameters were ΔGadso (−8.39 kJ/mol), ∆Hao (16.21 kJ/mol), and ∆Sao (−70.41 J/mol·K). Maximum inhibition efficiencies were 95.75% and 95.76% using weight loss and depth of attack methods, respectively.
Endothelial Cell Lineage Analysis Does Not Provide Evidence for EMT in Adult Valve Homeostasis and Disease
Authors: Kim Andrew J. , Alfieri Christina M. , Yutzey Katherine E.
Published: October 2018

Epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) enables stationary epithelial cells to exhibit migratory behavior and is the key step that initiates heart valve development. Recent studies suggest that EMT is reactivated in the pathogenesis of myxomatous valve disease (MVD), a condition that involves the progressive degeneration and thickening of valve leaflets. These studies have been limited toin vitroexperimentation and reliance on histologic costaining of epithelial and mesenchymal markers as evidence of EMT in mouse and sheep models of valve disease. However, longitudinal analysis of cell lineage origins and potential pathogenic or reparative contributions of newly generated mesenchymal cells have not been reported previously. In this study, a genetic lineage tracing strategy was pursued by irreversibly labeling valve endothelial cells in the Osteogenesis imperfecta and Marfan syndrome mouse models to determine whether they undergo EMT during valve disease.Tie2‐CreERT2andCdh5(PAC)‐CreERT2mouse lines were used in combination with colorimetric and fluorescent reporters for longitudinal assessment of endothelial cells. These lineage tracing experiments showed no evidence of EMT during adult valve homeostasis or valve pathogenesis. Additionally, CD31 and smooth muscle α‐actin (αSMA) double‐positive cells, used as an indicator of EMT, were not detected, and levels of EMT transcription factors were not altered. Interestingly, contrary to the endothelial cell‐specificCdh5(PAC)‐CreERT2driver line,Tie2‐CreERT2lineage‐derived cells in diseased heart valves also included CD45+ leukocytes. Altogether, our data indicate that EMT is not a feature of valve homeostasis and disease but that increased immune cells may contribute to MVD. Anat Rec, 302:125–135, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Estrogen receptor‐based multi‐residue screening of bisphenol compounds in urine
Authors: Guan Tianzhu , Sun Yonghai , Li Tiezhu , Hou Ligang , Zhang Jie , Wang Yongjun
Published: October 2018

Human exposure to bisphenol compounds (BPs) has been implicated in the development of several chronic diseases. Instead of exploiting the traditional methods for determination of BPs, this work confirms that the human estrogen receptor α ligand binding domain (hERα‐LBD) is a powerful recognition element that can be used to monitor multi‐residue of BPs in urine samples by fluorescence polarization (FP) assay. Test parameters were optimized for the best performance. Under the optimal conditions, the IC50 values of BPs are in the range of 0.04–1.61 μg mL−1. Recovery experiments were then performed to assess the accuracy and precision of the established method. The results detected by FP assay show good agreements with that of liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method with a fit of R2 = 0.9372 and 0.9640 for BPE and BPAP, respectively. A computational methodology, ligand‐based pharmacophore model, was also employed to further explore the broad‐specific of tested compounds. It was found that the two hydrogen bond acceptor features and one hydrophobic aliphatic feature were essential for the corresponding cross‐reactivity results from the FP assay. All these results suggest that the established method can be successfully applied to monitor the occurrence of BPs in urine.
Scaling up the Manufacturing Process of Adoptive T Cell Immunotherapy
Authors: Dai Xiaofeng , Mei Yi , Nie Jianqi , Bai Zhonghu
Published: October 2018

Adoptive T cell immunotherapy, involving the reprogramming of immune cells to target specific cancer or virus‐infected cells, has been recognized as a promising novel approach for the treatment of complex diseases. The impressive global momentum of this therapeutic approach has highlighted the urgent need for establishing it as an effective and standardized onco‐therapeutic approach in a large manufacturing scale. However, given its heterogeneity and uncertainty in nature, adoptive T cell immunotherapy is associated with a high failure rate that restricts its manufacturing to a limited number of institutions worldwide. It is undoubted that quite a few major challenges must be met before engineered T cells can be considered as a reliable, safe, and effective remedy for a broad range of diseases with global‐wise patient benefits. Here, the fundamental challenges that as yet remain unsolved in the manufacturing process before adoptive T cell therapy can be considered as a key element in the next generation of precision medicine is reviewed. It is proposed that it is necessary to adopt a closed system, automation, cost‐effective manufacturing model, and quality‐by‐design (QbD) strategy to enable scaled up manufacturing of adoptive T cell immunotherapy; and it is challenging to choose appropriate bioreactors, parameters, and infrastructure in this process.
Bestiality: An introduction for legal and mental health professionals
Authors: Holoyda Brian , Sorrentino Renee , Friedman Susan Hatters , Allgire John
Published: October 2018

Bestiality, or human–animal intercourse, has been a concern of the legal and mental health communities for many years. Ancient legal codes delineated punishments for those who engaged in the behavior, denoting a moral and general societal concern surrounding bestiality dating to ancient times. Despite this longstanding interest in and legal efforts to punish humans for having sex with animals, there has been little research on the behavior. Current available research has largely been siloed based on the populations studied, making it difficult to render any firm conclusions about bestiality's prevalence, frequency, and the risk posed by those who have sex with animals. It is important for clinicians to know the legal status of the behavior in their jurisdictions, to understand possible medical and psychiatric complications and comorbidities, and to know how to evaluate and treat individuals who engage in bestiality or have the related diagnosis of zoophilic disorder. This article provides an overview of the terminology and research pertaining to bestiality, summarizes legal and ethical considerations, and describes clinically relevant information for the evaluation and management of individuals engaged in sex with animals.
Judicial appraisals of risk assessment in sentencing
Authors: Monahan John , Metz Anne L. , Garrett Brandon L.
Published: October 2018

The assessment of an offender's risk of recidivism is emerging as a key consideration in sentencing policy in many US jurisdictions. However, little information is available on how actual sentencing judges view this development. This study surveys the views of a population sample of judges in Virginia, the state that has gone further than any other in legislatively mandating risk assessment for certain drug and property offenders. Results indicate that a strong majority of judges endorse the principle that sentencing eligible offenders should include a consideration of recidivism risk. However, a strong majority also report the availability of alternatives to imprisonment in their jurisdictions to be inadequate at best. Finally, most judges oppose the adoption of a policy requiring them to provide a written reason for declining to impose alternative interventions on “low‐risk” offenders.
An Integrated Lab‐on‐a‐chip Approach to Study Heterogeneous Enantioselective Catalysts at the Microscale
Authors: Warias Rico , Zaghi Anna , Heiland Josef J. , Piendl Sebastian K. , Gilmore Kerry , Seeberger Peter H. , Massi Alessandro , Belder Detlev
Published: October 2018

An integrated lab‐on‐a‐chip enables the rapid analysis of heterogenized enantioselective organocatalysis at the microscale. A packed‐bed microreactor was seamlessly integrated with a downstream chiral high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) functionality to study enantioselective transformations on a single microfluidic glass chip. Hyphenation to mass spectrometry allows for the rapid investigation of the selectivity and the substrate scope of microgram amounts of catalyst beads. Optimization of reaction conditions is possible with minimal reagent consumption and instant analytical feedback.
Micro/Nanomotors for Water Purification
Authors: Ying Yulong , Pumera Martin
Published: October 2018

Self‐propelled micro/nanomotors are synthetic machines that can convert different sources of energy into motion; at the same time, they are able to serve innovative environmental applications, for example, water purification. The self‐propelled micro and nanomachines can rapidly zoom through the solution, carrying catalytic surface or chemical to remove or degrade pollutants in a much faster fashion than that of static systems, which depend on diffusion and fluxes. This review highlights the recent progress of micro/nanomotors in water pollutant detection and pollutant removal applications.
New Irreversible α‐l‐Iduronidase Inhibitors and Activity‐Based Probes
Authors: Artola Marta , Kuo Chi‐Lin , McMahon Stephen A. , Oehler Verena , Hansen Thomas , van der Lienden Martijn , He Xu , van den Elst Hans , Florea Bogdan I. , Kermode Allison R. , van der Marel Gijsbert A. , Gloster Tracey M. , Codée Jeroen D. C. , Overkleeft Herman S. , Aerts Johannes M. F. G.
Published: October 2018

Cyclophellitol aziridines are potent irreversible inhibitors of retaining glycosidases and versatile intermediates in the synthesis of activity‐based glycosidase probes (ABPs). Direct 3‐amino‐2‐(trifluoromethyl)quinazolin‐4(3H)‐one‐mediated aziridination of l‐ido‐configured cyclohexene has enabled the synthesis of new covalent inhibitors and ABPs of α‐l‐iduronidase, deficiency of which underlies the lysosomal storage disorder mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I). The iduronidase ABPs react covalently and irreversibly in an activity‐based manner with human recombinant α‐l‐iduronidase (rIDUA, Aldurazyme®). The structures of IDUA when complexed with the inhibitors in a non‐covalent transition state mimicking form and a covalent enzyme‐bound form provide insights into its conformational itinerary. Inhibitors 1–3 adopt a half‐chair conformation in solution (4H3 and 3H4), as predicted by DFT calculations, which is different from the conformation of the Michaelis complex observed by crystallographic studies. Consequently, 1–3 may need to overcome an energy barrier in order to switch from the 4H3 conformation to the transition state (2, 5B) binding conformation before reacting and adopting a covalent 5S1 conformation. rIDUA can be labeled with fluorescent Cy5 ABP 2, which allows monitoring of the delivery of therapeutic recombinant enzyme to lysosomes, as is intended in enzyme replacement therapy for the treatment of MPS I patients.
One Century of Bioenergy in Germany: Wildcard and Advanced Technology
Authors: Pfeiffer Diana , Thrän Daniela
Published: October 2018

Bioenergy is the oldest renewable energy resource and has a long tradition in heat provision. However, with the establishment of the chemical industry and engineering the application field as extended to the power and the transport sector. This article outlines the development of power and fuel production from biomass over a period of hundred years until today, as well as future prospects. The crucial technical innovations of bioenergy with regard to political and historical events are reflected. Despite of improvements in the last decades, mainly associated with issues like resource availability, technical efficiency or emission mitigation, the future energy supply by biomass has to be even more efficient, demand‐oriented and integrated step‐by‐step in a more renewable energy system.
Cleavage of double bond using metal‐loaded ZSM‐5 zeolite catalysts for renewable biochemical application
Authors: Hoang Phan Huy , Van Don Bui , Chung Nguyen Hoang
Published: October 2018

This work aimed to investigate the use of mesoporous metal‐loaded ZSM‐5 zeolites for efficient cleavage of C═C double bonds for renewable biochemical applications. In the presence of a benign H2O2, these catalysts exhibited the high catalytic activities for oxidation of double bonds in styrene and fatty acids. Selective oxidation of styrene forming benzaldehyde was first studied using mesoporous Cr/ZSM‐5 zeolite as a model reaction to evaluate the catalytic activity in the cleavage of the double bond. Oxidation of double bonds in some typical fatty acids such as oleic, erucic, and linoleic acids was carried out subsequently following the model reaction. The mesoporous Cr/ZSM‐5 zeolite showed a high conversion yield of styrene (over 85 % after 6 h reaction at 70 °C) and high selectivity for benzaldehyde (over 74 %) as well as a high conversion yield of cleavage of double bond in fatty acids. To enhance the activity of the catalyst, tungsten transition metal was loaded on the Cr/ZSM‐5 particles. The mesoporous W‐Cr/ZSM‐5 zeolite was then applied as a catalyst for oxidative cleavage of several fatty acids for the generation of useful, low molecular weight chemicals from renewable natural resources. The results showed that the mesoporous W‐Cr/ZSM‐5 zeolite provided a higher conversion of fatty acids but lower selectivity in aldehyde type products than the mesoporous Cr/ZSM‐5 zeolite. The influences of reaction conditions such as reaction time and temperature on the efficiency of oxidation were also investigated.
The dissolution of oil sludge formed by flocculation of oily wastewater produced from polymer flooding
Authors: Duan Ming , Yao Meng , Zhao Bo , Chen Bin , Xiong Yan , Fang Shenwen , Zhao Yudong
Published: October 2018

During the treatment of oily wastewater produced from polymer flooding (OWPF) by cationic flocculant, oil sludge containing the polymer could be formed. In this paper, the formation mechanism of the oil sludge was discussed for the first time and a novel method was proposed for dissolving the oil sludge. The investigation showed that the polyelectrolyte complex could be formed between the cationic flocculant and the polymer in the OWPF. The polyelectrolyte complex was cross‐linked and was insoluble in the water. Oil droplets may be bound by the complex, and the oil sludge was formed. It was found that the oil sludge can be dissolved in sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) solution, and the mechanism study showed that SDS can destroy the water‐insoluble polyelectrolyte complex. Finally, a water‐soluble cationic flocculant‐SDS complex was formed.
Selective catalytic hydrogenation of phenol to cyclohexanone over Pd@CN: Role of CN precursor separation mode
Authors: Zhang Xiang , Qu Zhenyan , Jiang Hong , Liu Yefei , Chen Rizhi
Published: October 2018

The one‐step hydrogenation of phenol to cyclohexanone is green and sustainable. In this study, the effect of a CN (N‐doped carbon) precursor separation mode on the catalytic performance of a Pd@CN catalyst for selective hydrogenation of phenol to cyclohexanone in water was investigated. Three modes, i.e., rotary evaporation, centrifugation, and filtration, were designed to separate the CN precursor while preparing the Pd@CN catalyst. The results highlight that the separation mode significantly affects the phenol hydrogenation performance of the Pd@CN catalyst. The best catalytic performance is obtained when separating the CN precursor by the rotary evaporation mode. Based on a series of characterizations, it is confirmed that the separation mode of rotary evaporation can introduce more N into the mesoporous carbon, improve the Pd dispersion, and enhance the basic sites and Pd loading, leading to higher catalytic activity. Furthermore, the Pd@CN catalyst prepared by rotary evaporation exhibits better catalytic stability. Less Pd leaching is responsible for its slight deactivation. These findings can provide a point of reference for the development of Pd@CN catalysts with high catalytic performance.
Checkpoint inhibitors in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma: Results from the International Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Database Consortium
Authors: Yip Steven M. , Wells Connor , Moreira Raphael , Wong Alex , Srinivas Sandy , Beuselinck Benoit , Porta Camillo , Sim Hao‐Wen , Ernst D. Scott , Rini Brian I. , Yuasa Takeshi , Basappa Naveen S. , Kanesvaran Ravindran , Wood Lori A. , Canil Christina , Kapoor Anil , Fu Simon Y.F. , Choueiri Toni K. , Heng Daniel Y.C.
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

To the authors' knowledge, outcomes and prognostic tools have yet to be clearly defined in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (mRCC) who are treated with immuno‐oncology (IO) checkpoint inhibitors (programmed death‐ligand 1 [PD‐L1] inhibitors). In the current study, the authors aimed to establish IO efficacy benchmarks in patients with mRCC and update patient outcomes in each International Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Database Consortium (IMDC) prognostic class.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed using the IMDC database with data from 38 centers. It included patients with mRCC who were treated with ≥1 line of IO. Overall response rates (ORRs), duration of treatment (DOT), and overall survival (OS) were calculated. Patients were stratified using IMDC prognostic factors.

RESULTS

A total of 687 patients (90% with clear cell and 10% with non‐clear cell) were included. The ORR was 27% in evaluable patients (461 patients). In patients treated with first‐line nivolumab and ipilimumab (49 patients), the combination of PD‐L1 inhibitor and vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitor (72 patients), and PD‐L1 inhibitor (51 patients), the ORR was 31%, 39%, and 40%, respectively, and the median DOT was 8.3 months, 14.7 months, and 8.3 months, respectively. The ORR for second‐line, third‐line, and fourth‐line nivolumab was 22%, 24%, and 26%, respectively. The median DOT was 5.7 months, 6.2 months, and 8.3 months, respectively, in the second‐line, third‐line, and fourth‐line settings. When segregated into IMDC favorable‐risk, intermediate‐risk, and poor‐risk groups, the median OS rates for the first‐line, second‐line, third‐line, and fourth‐line treatment settings were not reached (NR), NR, and NR, respectively (P = .163); NR, 26.7 months, and 7.4 months, respectively (P < 0. 0001); 36.1 months, 28.2 months, and 11.1 months, respectively (P = .016); and NR, NR, and 6.7 months, respectively (P = .047).

CONCLUSIONS

The ORR was not found to deteriorate from the first‐line to the fourth‐line of IO therapy. In the second line through fourth line, the IMDC criteria appropriately stratified patients into favorable‐risk, intermediate‐risk, and poor‐risk groups for OS.
Addition of eltrombopag to immunosuppressive therapy in patients with newly diagnosed aplastic anemia
Authors: Assi Rita , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Ravandi Farhad , Borthakur Gautam , Daver Naval G. , Jabbour Elias , Burger Jan , Estrov Zeev , Dinardo Courtney D. , Alvarado Yesid , Hendrickson Stephany , Ferrajoli Alessandra , Wierda William , Cortes Jorge , Kantarjian Hagop , Kadia Tapan M.
Published: October 2018

Background

The immune‐mediated destruction of hematopoietic stem cells is implicated in the pathophysiology of aplastic anemia (AA). Immunosuppressive therapy (IST) using antithymocyte globulin and cyclosporine is successful in this setting. Eltrombopag is active in patients with refractory AA, presumably by increasing the bone marrow progenitors.

Methods

This phase 2 trial initially was designed to evaluate standard IST in newly diagnosed patients with severe AA and later was amended to add eltrombopag to simultaneously address immune destruction and stem cell depletion. The primary outcome was the overall response rate (ORR) at 3 months and 6 months.

Results

A total of 38 patients were enrolled: 17 (45%) received IST alone and 21 (55%) received additional eltrombopag. The ORR was 74%. Patients receiving IST plus eltrombopag had a similar ORR (76% vs 71%; P = .72), complete remission rate (38% vs 29%; P = .73), and median time to response (84 days vs 57 days; P = .30) compared with those receiving IST alone. The 2‐year overall survival rate in the IST group was 91% compared with 82% for those patients treated with IST plus eltrombopag (P = .82). No cumulative toxicities were noted after the addition of eltrombopag.

Conclusions

The addition of eltrombopag to standard IST was well tolerated and resulted in similar responses.
Analysis and monitoring of roadway deformation mechanisms in nickel mine, China
Authors: Lu Rong , Ma Fengshan , Guo Jie , Zhao Haijun
Published: October 2018

Deformation of surrounding rock of roadway in deep is an important issue for mining engineering. We did some investigations and monitoring works in Jinchuan Mine 2. In this paper, based on field investigation, roadway deformation was summarized three features: horizontal displacement of roadway is larger than vertical displacement; roadway deformation has time effect, and also has large convergence. The monitoring data showed that roadway deformation was influenced by mining operation, but the scope of mining influence is not large. Roof conditions have effect to deformed process of roadway. Three mechanisms of surrounding rock deformation were analyzed that are rock dilatancy mechanism; shearing wedges block slide mechanism; springback of surrounding rock mechanism. We compared these mechanisms to field rock failure.
Origin of Nb2O5 Lewis Acid Catalysis for Activation of Carboxylic Acids in the Presence of a Hard Base
Authors: Hirunsit Pussana , Toyao Takashi , Siddiki S. M. A. Hakim , Shimizu Ken‐ichi , Ehara Masahiro
Published: October 2018

The front cover artwork is provided by the groups of Dr. Pussana Hirunsit (NANOTEC), Prof. Ken‐ichi Shimizu (Hokkaido University), and Prof. Masahiro Ehara (Institute for Molecular Science). The image shows an efficient amidation reaction on Nb2O5 surface whose catalytic activity is correlated to the position of conduction band of active metal sites and the hybridization to substrates. Read the full text of the Article at 10.1002/cphc.201800723.
Ultrasonic‐Assisted Hydrolysis Precipitation Rapid Synthesis of Rod‐Like α‐Fe2O3 Nanostructures and Its Interfacial Electron Transfer Properties
Authors: Qin Runhua , Hao Lingyun , Li Juan , Zhu Yuting , Qi Zhaoyin
Published: October 2018

Uniform 3D rod‐like α‐Fe2O3 nanostructures are prepared by a simple ultrasonic‐assisted hydrolysis precipitation method. The obtained α‐Fe2O3 samples are characterized by X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectrum (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and electrochemical workstation. These rod‐like α‐Fe2O3 nanostructures, with a mean diameter of about 38 nm, their ratios of length to diameter are about 5–8. The interfacial electron transfer properties of rod‐like α‐Fe2O3 nanostructures are verified. The current synthetic strategy provides a convenient, low‐cost, and nontoxic route to prepare 3D architectures of other semiconductors, and it is important for exploring oxide‐based nanostructures.
miR‐31 regulates energy metabolism and is suppressed in T cells from patients with Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Johansson Alina , Nyberg William A , Sjöstrand Maria , Moruzzi Noah , Bergman Petra , Khademi Mohsen , Andersson Magnus , Piehl Fredrik , Berggren Per‐Olof , Covacu Ruxandra , Jagodic Maja , Espinosa Alexander
Published: October 2018

Systemic autoimmune diseases are characterized by the overexpression of type I IFN stimulated genes, and accumulating evidence indicate a role for type I IFNs in these diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms for this are still poorly understood. To explore the role of type I IFN regulated miRNAs in systemic autoimmune disease, we characterized cellular expression of miRNAs during both acute and chronic type I IFN responses. We identified a T cell‐specific reduction of miR‐31‐5p levels, both after intramuscular injection of IFNβ and in patients with Sjögren's syndrome (SjS). To interrogate the role of miR‐31‐51p in T cells we transfected human CD4+ T cells with a miR‐31‐5p inhibitor and performed metabolic measurements. This identified an increase in basal levels of glucose metabolism after inhibition of miR‐31‐5p. Furthermore, treatment with IFN‐α also increased the basal levels of human CD4+ T‐cell metabolism. In all, our results suggest that reduced levels of miR‐31‐5p in T cells of SjS patients support autoimmune T‐cell responses during chronic type I IFN exposure.
A Zinc(II) Benzamidinate N‐Oxide Complex as an Aggregation‐Induced Emission Material: toward Solution‐Processable White Organic Light‐Emitting Devices
Authors: Cibian Mihela , Shahalizad Afshin , Souissi Fathi , Castro Jessica , Ferreira Janaina G. , Chartrand Daniel , Nunzi Jean‐Michel , Hanan Garry S.
Published: October 2018

The synthesis, characterization, photophysical and redox properties of a dinuclear complex Zn2(AMOX)4 (AMOX = 4‐bromo‐N,N′‐diphenylbenzamidinate N‐oxide) are highlighted. This compound is a first example of a novel class of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) materials. Noticeably, solution‐processed white‐green organic light‐emitting diodes were fabricated using this complex as dopant in a co‐host matrix in the emissive layer. A luminance efficiency and power efficiency as high as 1.12 cd/A and 0.30 lm/W were obtained, respectively. The characteristics of this complex: high solubility, thermal stability, AIE behaviour, ease of synthesis, tunability options, and low‐cost, reveal altogether great potential for the development of this new family of compounds as materials for applications in optoelectronic devices.
Analyzing the Relation between Structure and Aggregation Induced Emission (AIE) Properties of Iridium(III) Complexes through Modification of Non‐Chromophoric Ancillary Ligands
Authors: Galán Laura Abad , Cordes David B. , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Jacquemin Denis , Ogden Mark I. , Massi Massimiliano , Zysman‐Colman Eli
Published: October 2018

Unconventionally modified dibenzoylmethane (dbm) ligands have been synthesized and successfully utilized as ancillary ligands for neutral iridium(III) complexes of the formula [Ir(dFppy)2(LX)], where dFppyH is 2‐(2,4‐difluorophenyl)pyridine and LX is tribenzoylmethane (tbm) or 1‐phenyl‐3‐(4‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)phenyl)propane‐1,3‐dione (pydbm). The modification of the ligands aims to prevent or enhance possible intermolecular interactions between the dFppy and/or the LX moiety in comparison with the previously reported [Ir(dFppy)2(dbm)] complex. The aggregation induced emission (AIE) properties of these complexes are significantly modulated, as a consequence of the different π–π interactions revealed by X‐ray crystallography.
The Impact of Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) Ethanolic Extracts in the Icing Medium on Quality Loss of Atlantic Chub Mackerel (Scomber colias) Under Chilling Storage
Authors: Miranda José M. , Carrera Mónica , Pastén Alexis , Vega‐Gálvez Antonio , Barros‐Velázquez Jorge , Aubourg Santiago P.
Published: October 2018

The employment of an ethanolic extract of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) as a novel preservation medium and as a source of bioactive compounds is tested for chilled fish storage. For this purpose, specimens from an under‐valued pelagic species (Atlantic chub mackerel, Scomber colias) are stored in ice including quinoa at two concentrations: 80% aq. (v/v) ethanol extracts (0.05 and 0.20 g lyophilized quinoa extract L−1 icing solution; Q‐1 and Q‐2 batches, respectively) and compared to a control icing condition (Q‐0 batch). The evolution of fish quality is assessed during a 13‐day chilled storage period. The presence of the most concentrated quinoa extract (i.e., Q‐2 batch) in the icing medium implied lower (p < 0.05) lipid oxidation (thiobarbituric acid and fluorescence values) and hydrolysis (free fatty acids formation and lipolytic bacteria counts), as well as to a decrease in pH and trimethylamine values. Such effects are more pronounced at advanced storage times. Furthermore, fish specimens from Q‐0 and Q‐1 batches do not exhibit acceptable quality at the end of storage time, while those from the Q‐2 batch still exhibit acceptable quality at that moment; interestingly, quality limit aspects are skin, eyes, and external odor.

Practical Applications: Under the conditions tested, a novel quinoa‐based system is proposed as a suitable tool for the improvement of a chilled fatty fish species and consequent extension of its shelf‐life. This preservative strategy matches with current interest in the search for effective antioxidants and antimicrobials from natural sources to replace synthetic preservatives in the food sector. Additionally, this preservative strategy has proven to increase the technological aptitude and, accordingly, the commercialization possibilities, of a currently under‐valued fish species. The innovative treatment reported in this study opens the way to the employment of this strategy to current commercial seafoods (namely, lean and fatty fish). Further research should be undertaken to gain a deeper knowledge on the benefits derived from the presence of quinoa extracts in the icing system on fish quality as well as to apply it as a potential way to incorporate healthy biomolecules into seafood.

The employment of an ethanolic extract of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) as a novel preservation medium and as a source of bioactive compounds is tested for chilled storage of fish. For this purpose, specimens from an under‐valued pelagic species (Atlantic chub mackerel, Scomber colias) are stored in ice including quinoa at two concentrations. The presence of the most concentrated quinoa extract in the icing medium implied lower (p < 0.05) lipid oxidation and hydrolysis, as well as to a decrease in pH and trimethylamine values.
Intestinal polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon‐DNA adducts in a population of beluga whales with high levels of gastrointestinal cancers
Authors: Poirier Miriam C. , Lair Stéphane , Michaud Robert , Hernández‐Ramon Elena E. , Divi Kathyayini V. , Dwyer Jennifer E. , Ester Corbin D. , Si Nancy N. , Ali Mehnaz , Loseto Lisa L. , Raverty Stephen A. , St. Leger Judith A. , Van Bonn William G. , Colegrove Kathleen , Burek‐Huntington Kathleen A. , Suydam Robert , Stimmelmayr Raphaela , Wise John Pierce , Wise Sandra S. , Beauchamp Guy , Martineau Daniel
Published: October 2018

Carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were disposed directly into the Saguenay River of the St. Lawrence Estuary (SLE) by local aluminum smelters (Quebec, Canada) for 50 years (1926–1976). PAHs in the river sediments are likely etiologically related to gastrointestinal epithelial cancers observed in 7% of 156 mature (>19‐year old) adult beluga found dead along the shorelines. Because DNA adduct formation provides a critical link between exposure and cancer induction, and because PAH–DNA adducts are chemically stable, we hypothesized that SLE beluga intestine would contain PAH–DNA adducts. Using an antiserum specific for DNA modified with several carcinogenic PAHs, we stained sections of paraffin‐embedded intestine from 51 SLE beluga (0–63 years), 4 Cook Inlet (CI) Alaska beluga (0–26 years), and 20 beluga (0–46 years) living in Arctic areas (Eastern Beaufort Sea, Eastern Chukchi Sea, Point Lay Alaska) and aquaria, all with low PAH contamination. Stained sections showed nuclear light‐to‐dark pink color indicating the presence of PAH–DNA adducts concentrated in intestinal crypt epithelial lining cells. Scoring of whole tissue sections revealed higher values for the 51 SLE beluga, compared with the 20 Arctic and aquarium beluga (P = 0.003). The H‐scoring system, applied to coded individual photomicrographs, confirmed that SLE beluga and CI beluga had levels of intestinal PAH–DNA adducts significantly higher than Arctic and aquarium beluga (P = 0.003 and 0.02, respectively). Furthermore, high levels of intestinal PAH–DNA adducts in four SLE beluga with gastrointestinal cancers, considered as a group, support a link of causality between PAH exposure and intestinal cancer in SLE beluga. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 60:29–41, 2019. Published 2018. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Real‐time PM2.5 mapping and anomaly detection from AirBoxes in Taiwan
Authors: Huang G. , Chen L.‐J. , Hwang W.‐H. , Tzeng S. , Huang H.‐C.
Published: October 2018

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has gained increasing attention due to its adverse health effects to human. In Taiwan, it was conventionally monitored by large environmental monitoring stations of the Environmental Protection Administration. However, only a small number of 77 monitoring stations are currently established. Recently, a project using a large number of small devices, called AirBoxes, was launched in March 2016 to monitor PM2.5 concentrations. Although thousands of AirBoxes have been deployed across Taiwan to give a broader coverage, they are mostly located in big cities and their measurements are less accurate. In this paper, we apply a robust kriging method that provides a smoothly varied real‐time PM2.5 concentration map and its associated standard error map. In addition, we develop a novel spatio‐temporal control chart that monitors anomalous measurements by utilizing neighboring AirBox information. Our method automatically adapts to different neighboring structures at different AirBox locations without the need to specify a neighborhood range. The proposed method has abilities to detect potential emission sources, malfunctioned AirBoxes, and AirBoxes that are wrongly put indoors.
Carbon emissions, diverse energy usage and economic growth in south africa: Investigating existence of the environmental kuznets curve (EKC)
Authors: Ganda Fortune
Published: October 2018

This article examined the relationships involving carbon emissions, economic growth and energy consumption by employing the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) in South Africa from 1980 to 2014. The auto regressive distributed lag approach and Johansen cointegration tests proved that the variables are cointegrated. The article findings show that combined (total energy consumption) and hydrocarbon gas and petroleum consumption demonstrates evidence of EKC in the long‐run. Other separated data (primary coal, secondary coal, and electricity consumption) show no evidence of the EKC in the long‐run. Primary coal, secondary coal, electricity and hydrocarbon gas consumption develop positive and statistically significant relationships with carbon emissions in the long‐run but the case of total energy and petroleum consumption was negative and statistically significant. The short‐run results illustrate that combined (total energy consumption) and hydrocarbon gas consumption indicate evidence of EKC. Other separated data (primary coal, secondary coal, electricity, and petroleum consumption) show no evidence of the EKC in the short‐run. Short‐run results also indicated that total energy, primary coal, secondary coal, and electricity consumption report positive and statistically significant relationship with carbon emissions but hydrocarbon gas and petroleum consumption indicate positive but insignificant associations. Granger causality test based on vector error correction method (VECM) are also presented to ascertain causality. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: 30–46, 2019

Highlights

The EKC hypothesis was examined in South Africa by employing energy combined and separated data.

The EKC is supported in energy combined data in both short and long‐run but varies in separated data.

Primary coal, secondary coal, electricity and hydrocarbon gas consumption develop positive and statistically significant relationships with carbon emissions in the long‐run.

Total energy and petroleum consumption generate negative and statistically significant associations with carbon emissions in the long‐run.

Total energy, primary coal, secondary coal and electricity show positive and statistically significant relationship with carbon emissions in the short‐run.

Hydrocarbon gas and petroleum consumption indicate positive but insignificant association with carbon emissions in the short‐run.

Granger causality tests based on VECM are also discussed.