bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Enzyme‐Coated Metal–Organic Framework Shell for Synthetically Adaptive Cell Survival
Authors: Liang Kang , Richardson Joseph J. , Doonan Christian J. , Mulet Xavier , Ju Yi , Cui Jiwei , Caruso Frank , Falcaro Paolo
Published: June 2017

A bioactive synthetic porous shell was engineered to enable cells to survive in an oligotrophic environment. Eukaryotic cells (yeast) were firstly coated with a β‐galactosidase (β‐gal), before crystallization of a metal–organic framework (MOF) film on the enzyme coating; thereby producing a bioactive porous synthetic shell. The β‐gal was an essential component of the bioactive shell as it generated nutrients (that is, glucose and galactose) required for cell viability in nutrient‐deficient media (lactose‐based). Additionally, the porous MOF coating carried out other vital functions, such as 1) shielding the cells from cytotoxic compounds and radiation, 2) protecting the non‐native enzymes (β‐gal in this instance) from degradation and internalization, and 3) allowing for the diffusion of molecules essential for the survival of the cells. Indeed, this bioactive porous shell enabled the survival of cells in simulated extreme oligotrophic environments for more than 7 days, leading to a decrease in cell viability less than 30 %, versus a 99 % decrease for naked yeast. When returned to optimal growth conditions the bioactive porous exoskeleton could be removed and the cells regained full growth immediately. The construction of bioactive coatings represents a conceptually new and promising approach for the next‐generation of cell‐based research and application, and is an alternative to synthetic biology or genetic modification.
3D Laser Micro‐ and Nanoprinting: Challenges for Chemistry
Authors: Barner‐Kowollik Christopher , Bastmeyer Martin , Blasco Eva , Delaittre Guillaume , Müller Patrick , Richter Benjamin , Wegener Martin
Published: June 2017

3D printing is a powerful emerging technology for the tailored fabrication of advanced functional materials. This Review summarizes the state‐of‐the art with regard to 3D laser micro‐ and nanoprinting and explores the chemical challenges limiting its full exploitation: from the development of advanced functional materials for applications in cell biology and electronics to the chemical barriers that need to be overcome to enable fast writing velocities with resolution below the diffraction limit. We further explore chemical means to enable direct laser writing of multiple materials in one resist by highly wavelength selective (λ‐orthogonal) photochemical processes. Finally, chemical processes to construct adaptive 3D written structures that are able to respond to external stimuli, such as light, heat, pH value, or specific molecules, are highlighted, and advanced concepts for degradable scaffolds are explored.
RAFT‐mediated graft polymerization of glycidyl methacrylate in emulsion from polyethylene/polypropylene initiated with γ‐radiation
Authors: Madrid Jordan F. , Ueki Yuji , Abad Lucille V. , Yamanobe Takeshi , Seko Noriaki
Published: June 2017

The successful reversible addition‐fragmentation (RAFT)‐mediated graft polymerization of glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) in emulsion phase from polyethylene/polypropylene nonwoven fabric using 4‐cyano‐4‐[(phenylcarbonothioyl)thio]pentanoic acid under γ‐irradiation at ambient condition is reported. While conventional graft polymerization in emulsion phase yielded grafted materials with low of grafting (Dg) values [<7.5% at 10% (wt/wt) GMA], addition of RAFT agent to the graft polymerization system allowed the synthesis of polyethylene/polypropylene‐g‐poly(GMA) with more tunable Dg (8% ≤ Dg ≤ 94%) by controlling the grafting parameters. Relatively good control (PDI ∼1.2 for selected grafting conditions) during polymerization was attained at 100:1 monomer‐to‐RAFT agent molar ratio. The number average molecular weight of free poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) increased as a function of monomer conversion. NMR analyses of the free PGMA homopolymers indicate the presence of dithiobenzoate group from 4‐cyano‐4‐((phenylcarbonothioyl)thio) pentanoic acid on the polymer chain. The reactive pendant oxirane group of the grafted GMA can be modified for various environmental and industrial applications. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45270.
Biomimetic porous collagen/hydroxyapatite scaffold for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Chen Li , Wu Zhenxu , Zhou Yulai , Li Linlong , Wang Yu , Wang Zongliang , Chen Yue , Zhang Peibiao
Published: June 2017

Bone defect and osteochondral injury frequently occur due to diseases or traumatism and bring a crucial challenge in orthopedics. The hybrid scaffold has shown promise as a potential strategy for the treatment of such defects. In this study, a novel biomimetic porous collagen (Col)/hydroxyapatite (HA) scaffold was fabricated through assembling layers of Col containing gradual amount of HA under the assistance of “iterative layering” freeze‐drying process. The scaffold presents a double gradient of highly interconnected porosity and HA content from top to bottom, mimicking the inherent physiological structure of bone. Owing to the biomimetic structure and component, significant increase of cell proliferation, alkaline phosphatase activity, and osteogenic differentiationin vitrowas observed, illustrating potential application of the excellent Col/HA scaffold as a promising strategy for bone tissue engineering. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2017,134, 45271.
Study the effects of Cloisite15A nanoclay incorporation on the morphology and gas permeation properties of Pebax2533 polymer
Authors: Behroozi Maryam , Pakizeh Majid
Published: June 2017

In this study, mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) were prepared using commercially available poly(ether‐b‐amide) (Pebax2533) as polymer matrix and organically modified montmorillonite (OMMt) as filler with the aim of investigating their gas permeation properties. The prepared membranes were characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), thermal gravimetric analysis, and tensile strength analyses. Gas permeation properties of all the prepared membranes were evaluated at different pressures and clay loadings. Results of FTIR and SEM confirmed the appropriate adhesion between polymer and nanoclays so that no void formation was observed in the polymer/clay interface. XRD results showed that in low loading, clay dispersion occurred as exfoliated‐intercalated and at high loading as intercalated‐phase separated. Results of gas permeation test showed that by adding layered and impermeable clay particles to the polymer matrix, the permeation of soluble CO2 gas reduced by 28% for the highest clay loading. By increasing of pressure from 2 to 6 bar, CO2/CH4 permselectivity increased at all nanoclay loadings. The highest CO2/CH4 selectivity was obtained for 6 wt % clay MMM at all pressures, while the highest CO2/H2 selectivity was achieved for neat polymer at 6 bar. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2017, 134, 45302.
A protocol‐driven approach to automatically finding authoritative answers to consumer health questions in online resources
Authors: Deardorff Ariel , Masterton Kate , Roberts Kirk , Kilicoglu Halil , Demner‐Fushman Dina
Published: June 2017

The purpose of this research was to establish an upper bound on finding answers to health‐related questions in MedlinePlus and other online resources. Seven reference librarians tested a set of protocols to determine whether it was possible to use the types and foci of the questions extracted from customer requests submitted to the National Library of Medicine to find authoritative answers to these questions. Librarians tested the protocols manually to determine if the process was sufficiently robust and accurate to later automate. Results indicated that the extracted terms provide enough information to find authoritative answers for about 60% of questions and that certain question types are more likely to result in authoritative answers than others. The question corpus and analysis performed for this project will inform automatic question answering systems, and could lead to suggestions for new content to include in MedlinePlus. This approach can serve as an example to researchers interested in methods of evaluating question answering tools and the contents of online databases.
A tool for integrating genetic and mass spectrometry‐based peptide data: Proteogenomics Viewer
Authors: Kroll José Eduardo , da Silva Vandeclécio Lira , de Souza Sandro José , de Souza Gustavo Antonio
Published: June 2017

In this manuscript we describe Proteogenomics Viewer, a web‐based tool that collects MS peptide identification, indexes to genomic sequence and structure, assigns exon usage, reports the identified protein isoforms with genomic alignments and, most importantly, allows the inspection of MS2 information for proper peptide identification. It also provides all performed indexing to facilitate global analysis of the data. The relevance of such tool is that there has been an increase in the number of proteogenomic efforts to improve the annotation of both genomics and proteomics data, culminating with the release of the two human proteome drafts. It is now clear that mass spectrometry‐based peptide identification of uncharacterized sequences, such as those resulting from unpredicted exon joints or non‐coding regions, is still prone to a higher than expected false discovery rate. Therefore, proper visualization of the raw data and the corresponding genome alignments are fundamental for further data validation and interpretation.

Also see the video abstract here: http://youtu.be/5NzyRvuk4Ac
Photoluminescence properties of Ca2Al2O5:RE3+ (RE = Eu, Dy and Tb) phosphors for solid state lighting
Authors: Yerpude Atul N. , Panse Vishal R. , Dhoble Sanjay J. , Kokode Namdeo S. , Srinivas Mudavath
Published: June 2017

Ca2Al2O5:Eu3+, Ca2Al2O5:Dy3+ and Ca2Al2O5:Tb3+ phosphors were synthesized using a combustion synthesis method. The prepared phosphors were characterized by X‐ray powder diffraction for phase purity, by scanning electron microscopy for morphology, and by photoluminescence for emission and excitation measurements. The Ca2Al2O5:Eu3+ phosphors could be efficiently excited at 396 nm and showed red emission at 594 nm and 616 nm due to 5D0 → 7F1 and 5D0 → 7F2 transitions. Dy3+‐doped phosphors showed blue emission at 482 nm and yellow emission at 573 nm. Ca2Al2O5:Tb3+ phosphors showed emission at 545 nm when excited at 352 nm. Concentration quenching occurred in both Eu3+ and Dy3+phosphors at 0.5 mol%. Photoluminescence results suggested that the aluminate‐based phosphor could be a potential candidate for application in environmentally friendly based lighting technologies.
A new Schiff base as a turn‐off fluorescent sensor for Cu2+ and its photophysical properties
Authors: Torawane Pritam , Sahoo Suban K. , Borse Amulrao , Kuwar Anil
Published: June 2017

A new Schiff base receptor 1 was synthesized and its photophysical properties were investigated by absorption, emission and excitation techniques. Furthermore, its chromogenic and fluorogenic sensing abilities towards various metal ions were examined. Receptor 1 selectively detects Cu2+ ion through fluorescence quenching and detection was not inhibited in the presence of other metal ions. From fluorescence titration, the limit of detection of receptor 1 as a fluorescent ‘turn‐off’ sensor for the analysis of Cu2+ was estimated to be 0.35 μM.
Enhancing Lysozyme Loading in Powderized Liposomes by Controlling Encapsulation Processes
Authors: Ro Jieun , Park Changhee , Kim Jeong Tae , Kim Hyeongmin , Lee Young‐Eun , Yoo Seung‐Yup , Hong Seong‐Chul , Lee Kyung Bin , Lee Jaehwi
Published: June 2017

Liposomes have demonstrated great potentials as protein carriers in various pharmaceutical applications. However, low loading amount of proteins in liposomes have been a major challenge for maximizing the therapeutics potential of the proteins. We thus aimed to enhance the loading amount of a model protein, lysozyme, in liposomes by controlling key experimental variables of a reverse phase evaporation method. The loading amount of lysozyme in liposomes was evaluated with changing type of organic solvents used, weight ratio of lysozyme/phosphatidylcholine, and volume ratio of aqueous to organic phase along with particle characterization before and after freeze‐drying procedure. As a result, the loading amount of lysozyme in liposomes was considerably enhanced and the physical stability of the liposomes was maintained without any significant changes in the particle characteristics for 7 days. The findings of this study would be useful for highly efficient loading of protein therapeutics in liposomes, leading to improved therapeutic effects of the drugs.
Abnormal resting state effective connectivity within the default mode network in major depressive disorder: A spectral dynamic causal modeling study
Authors: Li Liang , Li Baojuan , Bai Yuanhan , Liu Wenlei , Wang Huaning , Leung Hoi‐Chung , Tian Ping , Zhang Linchuan , Guo Fan , Cui Long‐Biao , Yin Hong , Lu Hongbing , Tan Qingrong
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Understanding the neural basis underlying major depressive disorder (MDD) is essential for the diagnosis and treatment of this mental disorder. Aberrant activation and functional connectivity of the default mode network (DMN) have been consistently found in patients with MDD. It is not known whether effective connectivity within the DMN is altered in MDD.

Objects

The primary object of this study is to investigate the effective connectivity within the DMN during resting state in MDD patients before and after eight weeks of antidepressant treatment.

Methods

We defined four regions of the DMN (medial frontal cortex, posterior cingulate cortex, left parietal cortex, and right parietal cortex) for each participant using a group independent component analysis. The coupling parameters reflecting the causal interactions among the DMN regions were estimated using spectral dynamic causal modeling (DCM).

Results

Twenty‐seven MDD patients and 27 healthy controls were included in the statistical analysis. Our results showed declined influences from the left parietal cortex to other DMN regions in the pre‐treatment patients as compared with healthy controls. After eight weeks of treatment, the influence from the right parietal cortex to the posterior cingulate cortex significantly decreased.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that the reduced excitatory causal influence of the left parietal cortex is the key alteration of the DMN in patients with MDD, and the disrupted causal influences that parietal cortex exerts on the posterior cingulate cortex is responsive to antidepressant treatment.
Problems related to levodopa‐carbidopa intestinal gel treatment in advanced Parkinson's disease
Authors: Udd Marianne , Lyytinen Jukka , Eerola‐Rautio Johanna , Kenttämies Anu , Lindström Outi , Kylänpää Leena , Pekkonen Eero
Published: June 2017

Background

Continuous levodopa‐carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG) diminishes daily “off” time and dyskinesia in patients with advanced Parkinson′s disease (PD). Complications are common with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy with a jejunal extension tube (PEG‐J).

Aim of the Study

To report the clinical outcome of LCIG in patients with advanced PD in the years 2006–2014 at Helsinki University Hospital.

Patients and Methods

Levodopa‐carbidopa intestinal gel treatment started following PEG‐J placement in patients with advanced PD after successful in‐hospital LCIG trial with a nasojejunal tube. Demographics, PEG‐J procedures, discontinuation of LCIG, complications and mortality were retrospectively analyzed.

Results [mean (SD)]

Sixty patients with advanced PD [age 68(7) years; duration of PD: 11(4) years] had LCIG treatment for 26(23) months. The majority of patients with advanced PD were satisfied with the LCIG treatment. For 51 patients (85%), the pump was on for 16 hr a day, and for nine patients (15%) it was on for 24 hr a day. After 6 months, the levodopa‐equivalent daily dose (LEDD) had increased by 30% compared to pre‐LCIG LEDD. Sixty patients underwent a total of 156 PEG‐J procedures, and 48 patients (80%) had a total of 143 complications. Forty‐six patients (77%) had 119 PEG‐J or peristomal complications, and 22 patients (37%) had a total of 25 other complications. The most common complications were accidental removal of the J‐tube in 23 patients (38%) and ≥5% weight loss in 18 patients (30%). Fifteen patients discontinued the LCIG after 21 (21) months. At the end of the follow‐up period of 33(27) months, 38 patients were still on LCIG and nine (15%) had died.

Conclusion

Most patients were satisfied with LCIG treatment. A few patients lost weight whereas the majority had complications with PEG‐J. When LCIG treatment is carried out, neurological and endoscopic units must be prepared for multiple endoscopic procedures.
The impact of multiple sclerosis onset symptom on cardiac repolarization
Authors: Mikkola Alma , Ojanen Aku , Hartikainen Juha E. K. , Remes Anne M. , Simula Sakari
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Multiple sclerosis is associated with prolonged cardiac repolarization but the underlying physiology has remained unknown. In this study, we compared cardiac repolarization during the relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) disease course in patients with motor and sensory onset symptom.

Methods

Twenty‐five RRMS patients with motor and 33 RRMS patients with sensory onset symptom having 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG) recorded at the time of the first demyelinating event (ECG1) as well as at the later disease course (ECG2) were identified from the patient records. The average time interval between ECG1 and ECG2 was 8.6 ± 5.9 y. Heart rate‐corrected QT intervals reflecting cardiac repolarization were calculated by Bazett (QTcBaz), Fridericia (QTcFri), and Karjalainen (QTcKar) formulas.

Results

Heart rate‐corrected QT intervals as well as heart rate were similar in patients with motor and sensory onset symptom in ECG1. However, QTcBaz (p = .002), QTcFri (p = .019), and QTcKar (p = .026) were longer and heart rate was higher (p = .035) in patients with motor than sensory onset symptom in ECG2. Correspondingly, QTcBaz (p = .002), QTcFri (p = .033), and QTcKar (p = .043) prolonged and heart rate tended to increase (p = .060) during the disease course only in the patients with motor onset symptom.

Conclusions

Cardiac repolarization prolonged and heart rate increased during the disease course in RRMS patients with motor but not with sensory onset symptom. This suggests different traits in RRMS according to its initial manifestation and also association of motor onset symptom with more unfavorable cardiovascular prognostic determinants.
Increasing middle school students’ awareness and interest in manufacturing through digital game‐based learning (DGBL)
Authors: Perini Stefano , Margoudi Maria , Oliveira Manuel Fradinho , Taisch Marco
Published: June 2017

The change of the societal appeal of manufacturing among younger generations is a key element in order to address the talent shortage that is currently affecting the sector. In order to pursue this objective, the use of interactive learning environments such as digital games (DGs) can play an important role. Therefore, this paper presents the results of an exploratory study aimed at understanding the impact of digital game‐based learning (DGBL) on the awareness and interest of middle school students in manufacturing. In particular, the students had to deal with the management of EcoFactory, a simplified industrial plant where they had to take care of the main decisions that are typical in the modern manufacturing industry. The study was based on a pre‐test–post‐test quasi‐experimental design conducted in a public middle school in Northern Italy. The research triangulated the results of different methodologies, namely drawings analysis and questionnaires. The results showed a significant impact of the DG both on the awareness and interest of participants, especially in the environmental, social, and economic dimensions. Thus, the outcomes revealed the high potential that DGs have in explaining the complex concepts that are typical of manufacturing and in enhancing students’ proactive motivation toward them. Finally, implications and suggestions for further research derived from these findings are discussed.
Early ovariectomy reveals the germline encoding of natural anti‐A‐ and Tn‐cross‐reactive immunoglobulin M (IgM) arising from developmental O‐GalNAc glycosylations. (Germline‐encoded natural anti‐A/Tn cross‐reactive IgM)
Authors: Arend Peter
Published: June 2017

While native blood group A‐like glycans have not been demonstrated in prokaryotic microorganisms as a source of human “natural” anti‐A isoagglutinin production, and metazoan eukaryotic N‐acetylgalactosamine O‐glycosylation of serine or threonine residues (O‐GalNAc‐Ser/Thr‐R) does not occur in bacteria, the O‐GalNAc glycan‐bearing ovarian glycolipids, discovered in C57BL/10 mice, are complementary to the syngeneic anti‐A‐reactive immunoglobulin M (IgM), which is not present in animals that have undergone ovariectomy prior to the onset of puberty. These mammalian ovarian glycolipids are complementary also to the anti‐A/Tn cross‐reactive Helix pomatia agglutinin (HPA), a molluscan defense protein, emerging from the coat proteins of fertilized eggs and reflecting the snail‐intrinsic, reversible O‐GalNAc glycosylations. The hexameric structure of this primitive invertebrate defense protein gives rise to speculation regarding an evolutionary relationship to the mammalian nonimmune, anti‐A‐reactive immunoglobulin M (IgM) molecule. Hypothetically, this molecule obtains its complementarity from the first step of protein glycosylations, initiated by GalNAc via reversible O‐linkages to peptides displaying Ser/Thr motifs, whereas the subsequent transferase depletion completes germ cell maturation and cell renewal, associated with loss of glycosidic bonds and release of O‐glycan‐depleted proteins, such as complementary IgM revealing the structure of the volatilely expressed “lost” glycan carrier through germline Ser residues. Consequently, the evolutionary/developmental first glycosylations of proteins appear metabolically related or identical to that of the mucin‐type, potentially “aberrant” monosaccharide GalNAcα1‐O‐Ser/Thr‐R, also referred to as the Tn (T “nouvelle”) antigen, and explain the anti‐Tn cross‐reactivity of human innate or “natural” anti‐A‐specific isoagglutinin and the pronounced occurrence of cross‐reactive anti‐Tn antibody in plasma from humans with histo‐blood group O. In fact, A‐allelic, phenotype‐specific GalNAc glycosylation of plasma proteins does not occur in human blood group O, affecting anti‐Tn antibody levels, which may function as a growth regulator that contributes to a potential survival advantage of this group in the overall risk of developing cancer when compared with non‐O blood groups.
Phytochemical Study of the Genus Salpichroa (Solanaceae), Chemotaxonomic Considerations, and Biological Evaluation in Prostate and Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Basso Ana Valentina , Leiva González Segundo , Barboza Gloria Estela , Careaga Valeria Pilar , Calvo Juan Carlos , Sacca Paula A. , Nicotra Viviana Estela
Published: June 2017

Twelve Salpichroa taxa have been phytochemically analyzed. From the aerial parts of S. scandens, four known salpichrolides A, C, I, S, and an unreported withanolide named salpichrolide V (1), were isolated. In S. dependens, S. gayi, S. glandulosa subsp. glandulosa, S. glandulosa subps. weddellii, S. leucantha, S. micrantha, S. microloba, S. proboscidea, S. ramosissima, S. tristis var. tristis, and S. weberbauerii, no withanolides were found. The chemical content of ca. 85% of the Salpichroa taxa is in agreement with molecular studies, which suggest that Salpichroa and Jaborosa, a genus considered morphologically close to Salpichroa, are distant in the systematic of the Solanoideae subfamily. Moreover, the in vitro cytotoxic activity of a set of natural salpichrolides and derivatives was examined against two prostate carcinoma cell lines (PC3 and LNCaP) and two human breast cancer cell lines (MCF‐7 and T47D). Several compounds showed moderate activity (IC50 = 64.91 – 29.97 μm).
How Community Colleges Are Closing the Skills Gap Through CTE and STEM Funding Innovations
Authors: Lowry Kimberly , Thomas‐Anderson Tricia
Published: June 2017

This chapter summarizes funding trends to support career and technical education (CTE) and science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) programs at community colleges compared to funding for similar programs at 4‐year colleges and universities. Examples of intramural and extramural funding strategies as well as lessons learned and implications of funding innovations are shared focusing on STEM and CTE programs.
Recruiting and Retaining Women in Information Technology Programs
Authors: Chen Yu (April) , de la Mora Arlene , Kemis Mari
Published: June 2017

This chapter examines exemplary practices and challenges of recruiting and retaining women in information technology programs in an Iowa community college context.
Implications for Policy and Practice: Summary of the Volume and Lessons for the Future of CTE Programs and STEM
Authors: Smith Dimitra Jackson
Published: June 2017

This chapter provides a summary of the aforementioned chapters and includes implications for policy and practice and lessons for the future as it relates to CTE programs and STEM education.
Efficient Hydrogenation of CO2 to Methanol over Supported Subnanometer Gold Catalysts at Low Temperature
Authors: Wu Congyi , Zhang Peng , Zhang Zhaofu , Zhang Lujun , Yang Guanying , Han Buxing
Published: June 2017

Direct hydrogenation of CO2 to methanol under milder conditions is of great importance. The catalytic performances of Au particles with different sizes on various supports for this reaction were studied. It was demonstrated that catalytic properties of the catalysts depended both on size of Au particles and the composition of the supports. Au/ZrO2 with subnanometer Au particles (1.6 nm) had unprecedented high catalytic activity and excellent selectivity for the reaction, and methanol could be obtained even at 140 °C, which is obviously lower than those reported before. The outstanding performance of the Au/ZrO2 with subnanometer Au particles resulted from both the very small size of the Au particles and appropriate coupling between the Au particles and the support.
Solvothermal Fabrication of Hollow Nanobarrel‐Like ZnCo2O4 Towards Enhancing the Electrochemical Performance of Rechargeable Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Zhen , Ru Qiang , Chen Xiaoqiu , Guo Qing , Wang Bei , Hou Xianhua , Hu Shejun
Published: June 2017

Hollow nanobarrel‐like ZnCo2O4 has been designed and synthesized by means of a simple solvothermal method and subsequent calcination. The obtained samples were systematically characterized by powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), N2 adsorption–desorption experiments and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). This hollow structure could not only relieve the volume expansion effect, but also facilitate the diffusion of lithium ions. We obtained a reversible lithium storage capacity of 1350 mAh g−1 even after 300 cycles at a current density of 500 mA g−1 with a voltage window of 0.01–3.0 V. As‐prepared samples demonstrate the high reversible capacity and excellent cycle life. The good cycling capability and high rate performance suggest that the material will be an attractive anode material for lithium‐ion batteries.
Ethanol Oxidation Reaction Catalyzed by Palladium Nanoparticles Supported on Hydrogen‐Treated TiO2 Nanobelts: Impact of Oxygen Vacancies
Authors: Lu Bingzhang , Yao Bin , Roseman Graham , Deming Christopher P. , Lu Jia En , Millhauser Glenn L. , Li Yat , Chen Shaowei
Published: June 2017

Nanocomposites based on palladium nanoparticles deposited onto TiO2 nanobelts were prepared by chemical reduction of Pd(II) precursors and the catalytic activity towards ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) was examined and compared within the context of TiO2 oxygen vacancies formed by thermal annealing at controlled temperatures (400–600 °C) in a hydrogen atmosphere. Transmission electron microscopic measurements showed that the Pd nanoparticles (about 5 nm in diameter) were clustered somewhat on the surfaces of hydrogen‐treated TiO2 nanobelts (Pd/hTiO2), but distributed rather evenly on the untreated ones (Pd/TiO2). X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopic studies suggested electron transfer from Ti to Pd in the Pd/hTiO2 samples, as compared to untreated Pd/TiO2, due to the formation of oxygen vacancies in TiO2 nanobelts where the concentration increased with increasing thermal annealing temperature, as evidenced in electron paramagnetic resonance measurements. Significantly, electrochemical measurements showed markedly enhanced EOR activity of both Pd/TiO2 and Pd/hTiO2 in alkaline media, as compared to commercial Pd/C, and the activity increased drastically with the concentration of oxygen vacancies, most likely because oxygen vacancies facilitated the formation of hydroxyl species on the TiO2 surface that played a critical role in the oxidation of ethanol to acetate.
The Solvent Induced Inter‐Dimensional Phase Transformations of Cobalt Zeolitic‐Imidazolate Frameworks
Authors: Li Xu , Li Zhenhu , Lu Li , Huang Limin , Xiang Lu , Shen Jun , Liu Shuangyi , Xiao Dong‐Rong
Published: June 2017

Studying inter‐dimensional phase transitions of zeolitic‐imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) is essential for developing strategies in controlling morphology and properties. Herein, the inter‐dimensional topotactic phase transformations of 3D ZIF‐67 to 2D ZIF‐L are investigated in detail by employing a simple and efficient solvent‐induced growth method. In addition to ZIF‐67 and ZIF‐L, a series of novel core–shell composites of ZIF‐67@ZIF‐L, with unprecedented morphologies, are also obtained and well‐defined. The different behaviors of the amine hydrogen of 2‐MIM in the solvents play a pivotal role for inter‐dimensional phase transformations, and in combination with the concentration of 2‐MIM, the 2D to 3D phase transformations are also revealed. The findings are very beneficial for morphological design of the ZIFs, along with exploration of the corresponding properties. Impressively, Co‐ZIFs exhibit interesting tunable CO2 adsorption behaviors with the phase evolution, which might bring broader understanding for designing CO2 detection and adsorption devices.
Shape‐Controlled Hollow Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles with Multifunctional Capping for In Vitro Cancer Treatment
Authors: Geng Hongya , Chen Weiyu , Xu Zhi Ping , Qian Guangren , An Jing , Zhang Haijiao
Published: June 2017

A series of multifunctional shape‐controlled nonspherical hollow mesoporous silica nanoparticles (HMSNs) drug carriers have been prepared by employing Fe2O3 with four morphologies (capsule, cube, rice, and rhombus) as a sacrificial template and a multifunctional cap as the encapsulating shell. The resulting shape‐controlled nonspherical HMSNs perfectly replicate the original morphology of the Fe2O3 templates, which possess a high specific surface area, good monodispersity, perpendicular mesoporous channels, and excellent biocompatibility. After modification of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and folic acid (FA), the shape‐controlled HMSN core and functional shell can then be integrated into a single device (HMSNs‐PEG‐FA) to provide an efficient and tumor‐cell‐selective drug‐delivery system. The shape‐controlled HMSNs and HMSNs‐PEG‐FA all show controlled pH‐responsive release behavior for the anticancer drug doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX). The in vitro results indicate that HMSNs‐PEG‐FA is biocompatible and selectively targets HeLa cells (overexpressed folate receptors). Fluorescence images show that desirable surface modification and the nonspherical shape effectively facilitate cellular internalization of HMSNs. It is expected that the construction of these unique nanomaterials with controlled morphology through the hard‐templating technique may also provide useful information for the design of nanoscale multifunctional systems.
Concurrent chemotherapy is associated with improved survival in elderly patients with bladder cancer undergoing radiotherapy
Authors: Korpics Mark C. , Block Alec M. , Martin Brendan , Hentz Courtney , Gaynor Ellen R. , Henry Elizabeth , Harkenrider Matthew M. , Solanki Abhishek A.
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

The current study was conducted to compare the overall survival (OS) of concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) versus radiotherapy (RT) alone in elderly patients (those aged ≥80 years) with muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (MIBC).

METHODS

Patients aged ≥80 years with cT2‐4, N0‐3, M0 transitional cell MIBC who were treated with curative RT (60‐70 Gray) or CCRT were identified in the National Cancer Data Base. Univariable and multivariable frailty survival analyses, as well as 1‐to‐1 propensity score matching, were used to isolate the association between CCRT and OS.

RESULTS

A total of 1369 patients who were treated with RT from 2004 through 2013 met eligibility criteria: 739 patients (54%) received RT alone and 630 patients (46%) received CCRT. The median age of the patients was 84 years (range, 80‐90 years). The median follow‐up was 21 months. The 2‐year OS rate was 48%. When comparing CCRT with RT alone, the 2‐year OS rate was 56% versus 42% (P<.0001), respectively. Multivariable analysis demonstrated that CCRT (hazard ratio [HR], 0.74; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.65‐0.84 [P<.0001]) and a higher RT dose (HR, 0.78; 95% CI, 0.67‐0.90 [P<.001]) were associated with improved OS. T4 disease was associated with worse OS (HR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.15‐1.76 [P = .001]). After using 1‐to‐1 propensity score matching, there remained an OS benefit for the use of CCRT (HR, 0.77; 95% CI, 0.67‐0.90 [P<.001]).

CONCLUSIONS

CCRT is associated with improved OS compared with the use of RT alone in elderly patients with MIBC, independent of Charlson‐Deyo comorbidity score, suggesting that CCRT should be used in this population. Cancer 2017;123:3524‐31. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Comprehensive genomic profiling of different subtypes of nasopharyngeal carcinoma reveals similarities and differences to guide targeted therapy
Authors: Ali Siraj M. , Yao Ming , Yao Jicheng , Wang Jing , Cheng Yuwei , Schrock Alexa B. , Chirn Gung‐Wei , Chen Hui , Mu Shuo , Gay Laurie , Elvin Julia A. , Suh James , Miller Vincent A. , Stephens Philip J. , Ross Jeffrey S. , Wang Kai
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

To date, no targeted therapy has been approved for nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), and this underscores the need for an in‐depth understanding of clinically relevant genomic alterations (CRGAs).

METHODS

Comprehensive genomic profiling was performed for 190 NPC patients, including 20 patients with nasopharyngeal adenocarcinoma (NPAC), 62 patients with nasopharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (NPSCC), and 108 patients with nasopharyngeal undifferentiated carcinoma (NPUC). The associations of genes and pathways with subtypes, Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) infections, and the tumor mutation burden (TMB) were statistically evaluated.

RESULTS

Although the overall rates of genomic alterations were similar, the 3 NPC subtypes exhibited different mutational landscapes. Notably, mutations in a proven‐treatable target gene, isocitrate dehydrogenase 2 (IDH2), were significantly associated with NPUC but not with NPAC or NPSCC. The top 5 ranked CRGAs included CDKN2A (29%), IDH2 (16%), SMARCB1 (7%), PIK3CA (6%), and NF1 (5%) in NPUC; CDKN2A (27%), PIK3CA (23%), FBXW7 (11%), PTEN (11%), and EGFR (8%) in NPSCC; and CDKN2A (20%), KRAS (15%), CCND1 (10%), MAP3K1 (10%), and NOTCH1 (10%) in NPAC. The incidence of EBV infections significantly correlated with the subtypes and with TP53, CDKN2A, and CDKN2B. The TMB status correlated with the subtypes and with LRP1B, FBXW7, and PIK3CA mutations as well as DNA repair, phosphoinositide 3‐kinase/mammalian target of rapamycin, and mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that different NPC subtypes harbor different CRGAs. Both EBV infections and the TMB are associated with the NPC subtypes as well as the alterations of individual genes and pathways. The high frequency of IDH2 mutations in NPUC may facilitate potential targeted therapy and will ultimately point to new therapeutic strategies. Cancer 2017;123:3628‐37. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Voices of children and adolescents on phase 1 or phase 2 cancer trials: A new trial endpoint?
Authors: Hinds Pamela S. , Wang Jichuan , Stern Emily Dunn , Macpherson Catherine Fiona , Wharton Claire M. , Okorosobo Ruthanna , Cheng Yao Iris , Gross Heather E. , Meany Holly J. , Jacobs Shana
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

Pediatric participants on phase 1 or phase 2 clinical trials for incurable cancer are at risk of experiencing toxicities (adverse events [AEs]) related to trial participation. Multiple AEs are subjective; thus, the real impact of trial treatment cannot be known unless patient subjective reports are solicited.

METHODS

The authors assessed the feasibility and acceptability of soliciting symptom, function, and quality of life (QOL) reports from participants aged 8 to 18 years who were enrolled on phase 1/2 clinical trials at 4 cancer centers during the first course of chemotherapy. The authors also assessed the reliability and validity of 6 self‐report Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) pediatric measures and 4 open‐ended interview questions at 2 time points (at the time of trial enrollment [T1] and 3 to 4 weeks later [T2]).

RESULTS

The enrollment rate of 75.9% (20 participants) exceeded the feasibility criterion, and missingness of measures by person, measure, and items at T1 and T2 were lower than the acceptability criteria. New QOL themes were limited to the impact of treatment on families and being away from home, family, and friends for treatment. All but one measure at T1 met the reliability criterion and all measures did so at T2. Validity support was limited however because as theorized, mobility decreased and fatigue increased as AEs increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Soliciting and documenting symptom, function, and QOL reports from patients aged 8 to 18 years who are enrolled on a phase 1/2 clinical trial is feasible and acceptable to participants, particularly when embedded in trials. Reliable and valid findings can result, making patient self‐reported outcomes a possible new trial endpoint. Cancer 2017;123:3799–3806. © 2017 American Cancer Society
Digital image analysis supports a nuclear‐to‐cytoplasmic ratio cutoff value of 0.5 for atypical urothelial cells
Authors: Hang Jen‐Fan , Charu Vivek , Zhang M. Lisa , VandenBussche Christopher J.
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

An elevated nuclear‐to‐cytoplasmic (N:C) ratio of ≥0.5 is a required criterion for the diagnosis of atypical urothelial cells (AUC) in The Paris System for Reporting Urinary Cytology.

METHODS

To validate the N:C ratio cutoff value and its predictive power for high‐grade urothelial carcinoma (HGUC), the authors retrospectively reviewed the urinary tract cytology specimens of 15 cases of AUC with HGUC on follow‐up (AUC‐HGUC) and 33 cases of AUC without HGUC on follow‐up (AUC‐N‐HGUC). The number of atypical cells in each case was recorded, and each atypical cell was photographed and digitally examined to calculate the nuclear size and N:C ratio.

RESULTS

On average, the maximum N:C ratios of atypical cells were significantly different between the AUC‐HGUC and AUC‐N‐HGUC cohorts (0.53 vs 0.43; P =.00009), whereas the maximum nuclear sizes of atypical cells (153.43 μM2 vs 201.47 μM2; P = .69) and the number of atypical cells per case (10.13 vs 7.88; P = .12) were not found to be significantly different. Receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrated that the maximum N:C ratio alone had high discriminatory capacity (area under the curve, 79.19%; 95% confidence interval, 64.19%‐94.19%). The optimal maximum N:C ratio threshold was 0.486, giving a sensitivity of 73.3% and a specificity of 84.8% for predicting HGUC on follow‐up.

CONCLUSIONS

The identification of AUC with an N:C ratio >0.486 has a high predictive power for HGUC on follow‐up in AUC specimens. This justifies using the N:C ratio as a required criterion for the AUC category. Individual laboratories using different cytopreparation methods may require independent validation of the N:C ratio cutoff value. Cancer Cytopathol 2017;125:710‐6. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Effects of a Nutritional Protein‐Rich Drink on the Pharmacokinetics of Elvitegravir, Cobicistat, Emtricitabine, Tenofovir Alafenamide, and Tenofovir Compared With a Standard Meal in Healthy Japanese Male Subjects
Authors: Yamada Hiroyuki , Ikushima Ippei , Nemoto Takanori , Ishikawa Tomohiro , Ninomiya Noriko , Irie Shin
Published: June 2017

This study investigated the effects of ingested meal types on the pharmacokinetics of elvitegravir (EVG), cobicistat (COBI), emtricitabine (FTC), tenofovir alafenamide (TAF), and tenofovir (TFV) following a single administration of the single‐tablet regimen (STR) of EVG/COBI/FTC/TAF (150/150/200/10 mg) in Japanese HIV‐negative healthy subjects (n = 12). In this open‐label, randomized, 3‐way crossover study, the bioequivalence of the EVG/COBI/FTC/TAF STR following ingestion of a nutritional protein‐rich drink with a reference treatment of taking a standard breakfast was evaluated. Administration under fasted conditions, no food intake, resulted in decreases in the mean AUCinf and Cmax of EVG by 50% and 57%, respectively, relative to the administration with a standard breakfast, whereas the systemic exposure of EVG with a nutritional protein‐rich drink was comparable to that with a standard breakfast. The mean AUCinf and Cmax of COBI, FTC, TAF, and TFV were comparable regardless of meal intake or meal types. Although the package insert of the EVG/COBI/FTC/TAF STR states that the medication is recommended to be taken with food, this study provides an additional insight into HIV‐1‐infected patients that a light meal like a nutritional protein‐rich drink can be an alternative to a standard meal.
Methods for multitasking among real‐time embedded compute tasks running on the GPU
Authors: Muyan‐Özçelik Pınar , Owens John D.
Published: June 2017

In this study, we provide an extensive survey on wide spectrum of scheduling methods for multitasking among graphics processing unit (GPU) computing tasks. We then design several schedulers and explain in detail the selected methods we have developed to implement our scheduling strategies. Next, we compare the performance of schedulers on various workloads running on Fermi and Kepler architectures and arrive at the following major conclusions: (1) Small kernels benefit from running kernels concurrently. (2) The combination of small kernels, high‐priority kernels with longer runtimes, and lower‐priority kernels with shorter runtimes benefits from a CPU scheduler that dynamically changes kernel order on the Fermi architecture. (3) Because of limitations of existing GPU architectures, currently CPU schedulers outperform their GPU counterparts. We also provide results and observations obtained from implementing and evaluating our schedulers on the NVIDIA Jetson TX1 system‐on‐chip architecture. We observe that although TX1 has the newer Maxwell architecture, the mechanism used for scheduler timings behaves differently on TX1 compared to Kepler leading to incorrect timings. In this paper, we describe our methods that allow us to report correct timings for CPU schedulers running on TX1. Finally, we propose new research directions involving the investigation of additional scheduling strategies.
Aqueous Synthesis of Protein‐Encapsulated ZnSe Quantum Dots and Physical Significance of Semiconductor‐Induced CuII Ion Sensing
Authors: Kundu Somashree , Maiti Susmita , Ghosh Debasmita , Roy Chandra Nath , Saha Abhijit
Published: June 2017

In view of their promising bio‐applicability, we have synthesized water‐soluble bovine serum albumin (BSA)‐encapsulated ZnSe quantum dots (QDs) with visible emission with longer average luminescence lifetimes of approximately 125 ns at ambient conditions. BSA‐ZnSe QDs are shown to be efficient selective copper ion probes in the presence of physiologically important metal ions through luminescence quenching with a high Stern–Volmer constant (3.3×105 m−1). The mechanism of sensing has been explained in terms of electron transfer processes and the apparent rate of electron transfer (Ket) from ZnSe QDs to Cu2+ has been calculated to be 2.8×108 s−1. It is demonstrated that the negative conduction band potential plays a major role in the feasibility of the electron transfer process, which is reflected in the higher efficacy of ZnSe QDs in sensing copper(II) ions over other group II–VI quantum dots, namely, CdSe, ZnS, or CdS. The results observed with cysteine‐capped QDs are almost identical to those with BSA‐encapsulated QDs and this presumably negates the possible reason of CuII ion induced quenching ascribed to its binding with surface groups or replacement of metal sites as proposed by several groups previously.
Antimicrobial Activity of Polyoxometalate Ionic Liquids against Clinically Relevant Pathogens
Authors: Kubo Anna‐Liisa , Kremer Lea , Herrmann Sven , Mitchell Scott G. , Bondarenko Olesja M. , Kahru Anne , Streb Carsten
Published: June 2017

The activity of a new class of antimicrobials—polyoxometalate ionic liquids (POM‐ILs)—is systematically investigated. The prototype POM‐ILs feature Keggin‐type anions (α‐SiW11O398−) and tetraalkylammonium ions as active cationic species. Antimicrobial tests of the POM‐ILs against important human pathogens show that variation of the alkyl chain length of the cation leads to significant changes in antimicrobial activity against the medically relevant Gram‐negative bacteriaEscherichia coliandPseudomonas aeruginosa,and especially against the Gram‐positiveStaphylococcus aureus. Owing to the unique materials properties of the POM‐ILs, such as high viscosity and water immiscibility, applications of antimicrobial surface coatings against airborne pathogens or for water decontamination can be envisaged. Furthermore, the combination of antimicrobially active cations with POM anions might afford new POM‐ILs with two active components.
Upcoming Challenges in Multidisciplinary Heart Failure Management: Active Role of Future Clinical Pharmacists
Authors: Motiejunaite J , Chouihed T , Mebazaa A
Published: June 2017

In their article “Role and Value of Clinical Pharmacy in Heart Failure Management” Stough and Patterson discuss the potential benefits that clinical pharmacists could bring to heart failure management. They mostly focused on chronic stable heart failure. The objective of this commentary is to provide future perspectives for clinical pharmacist involvement in multidisciplinary heart failure team in the management of patients admitted in emergency for decompensation of their heart condition.
Passive smoking as an independent risk factor for gestational diabetes that synergizes with prepregnancy obesity in urban Chinese women
Authors: Loeken Mary R.
Published: June 2017

There are high‐priority public health and legislative efforts around the world to reduce smoking and to reduce the spaces where smoking is allowable. These efforts are aimed at minimizing not only the adverse health effects of active smoking but also the adverse health effects of passive cigarette smoke exposure. While many cultures and societies make protection of a pregnant woman and her about‐to‐be‐born‐newborn a priority, the importance of protecting them from passive smoking that is prevalent in many modern societies has not been reported. The article by Leng et al, “Passive smoking increased risk of gestational diabetes mellitus independently and synergistically with prepregnancy obesity in Tianjin, China,” newly published in Diabetes Metabolism Research and Reviews, provides evidence that passive smoke inhalation during pregnancy makes gestational diabetes more likely, bringing with it negative health consequences for the mother and her baby. This study will hopefully add support to public health officials' efforts to curb cigarette use, especially in public domains.