bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of microvascular invasion on clinical outcomes after curative‐intent resection for intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Hu Liang‐Shuo , Weiss Matthew , Popescu Irinel , Marques Hugo P. , Aldrighetti Luca , Maithel Shishir K. , Pulitano Carlo , Bauer Todd W. , Shen Feng , Poultsides George A. , Soubrane Oliver , Martel Guillaume , Koerkamp B. Groot , Itaru Endo , Pawlik Timothy M.
Published: November 2018

Background

Microvascular invasion (MiVI) is a histological feature of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) that may be associated with biological behavior. We sought to investigate the impact of MiVI on long‐term survival of patients undergoing curative‐intent resection for ICC.

Methods

A total of 1089 patients undergoing curative‐intent resection for ICC were identified. Data on clinicopathological characteristics, disease‐free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS) were compared among patients with no vascular invasion (NoVI), MiVI, and macrovascular invasion (MaVI).

Results

A total of 249 (22.9%) patients had MiVI, while 149 (13.7%) patients had MaVI (±MiVI). MiVI was associated with higher incidence of perineural, biliary and adjacent organ invasion, and satellite lesions (all P < 0.01). On multivariable analysis, MiVI was an independent risk factor of DFS (hazard ratios [HR] 1.5; 95%confidence intervals [CI], 1.3‐1.9; P < 0.001), but not OS (HR 1.1; 95%CI, 0.9‐1.3; P = 0.379). While MiVI and MaVI patients had similar DFS (median, MiVI 14.0 vs MaVI 12.0 months, HR 0.9; 95%CI, 0.7‐1.2; P = 0.377), OS was better among MiVI patients (median, MiVI 39.0 vs MaVI 21.0 months, HR 0.7; 95%CI, 0.5‐0.8; P = 0.002). Whereas nodal metastasis, R1 margin, and postoperative morbidity were associated with early death (≤18 months) among patients with MiVI, only nodal metastasis was associated with late (>18 months) prognosis.

Conclusions

Roughly 1 out of 5 patients with resected ICC had MiVI. MiVI was associated with advanced tumor characteristics and a higher risk of tumor recurrence.
Enabling Directional Sequence‐Control via Step‐Growth Polymerization of Heterofunctionalized Precision Macromonomers
Authors: Gerke Christoph , Siegfeld Patrick , Schaper Klaus , Hartmann Laura
Published: November 2018

The synthesis of periodic copolymers with a regularly recurring sequence in one direction along the polymeric backbone is presented, applying a step‐growth polymerization of heterofunctionalized precision macromonomers derived from solid phase synthesis (SPS) via photoinduced thiol‐ene coupling (TEC). Heterofunctional macromonomers with monomer sequence‐control of the AB type present a terminal alkene and a terminal thiol group carrying a photolabile protecting group to avoid uncontrolled polymerization by self‐initiation. As protecting group, 3,4‐methylenebisoxy‐6‐nitrobenzyl is attached onto the thiol via its bromide derivative directly on solid support. The protected heterofunctionalized macromonomer is polymerized in a two‐step procedure, first cleaving the photolabile group and subsequent polymerization of the macromonomer via TEC, giving a high molecular weight polymer with of 23.8 kDa corresponding to a of 10 with one directional sequence‐control due to their consistent head‐to‐tail linkage.
An integrated pan-European research infrastructure for validating smart grid systems
Authors: Strasser Thomas I. , Pröstl Andrén F. , Widl E. , Lauss G. , De Jong E. C. W. , Calin M. , Sosnina M. , Khavari A. , Rodriguez J. E. , Kotsampopoulos P. , Blank M. , Steinbrink C. , Mäki K. , Kulmala A. , van der Meer A. , Bhandia R. , Brandl R. , Arnold G. , Sandroni C. , Pala D. , Morales Bondy D. E. , Heussen K. , Gehrke O. , Coffele F. , Tran Q.-T. , Rikos E. , Nguyen V. H. , Orue I. , Degefa M. Z. , Manikas S.
Published: November 2018

A driving force for the realization of a sustainable energy supply in Europe is the integration of distributed, renewable energy resources. Due to their dynamic and stochastic generation behaviour, utilities and network operators are confronted with a more complex operation of the underlying distribution grids. Additionally, due to the higher flexibility on the consumer side through partly controllable loads, ongoing changes of regulatory rules, technology developments, and the liberalization of energy markets, the system’s operation needs adaptation. Sophisticated design approaches together with proper operational concepts and intelligent automation provide the basis to turn the existing power system into an intelligent entity, a so-called smart grid. While reaping the benefits that come along with those intelligent behaviours, it is expected that the system-level testing will play a significantly larger role in the development of future solutions and technologies. Proper validation approaches, concepts, and corresponding tools are partly missing until now. This paper addresses these issues by discussing the progress in the integrated Pan-European research infrastructure project ERIGrid where proper validation methods and tools are currently being developed for validating smart grid systems and solutions.
Normative Moral Neuroscience: The Third Tradition of Neuroethics
Authors: HOLTZMAN GEOFFREY S.
Published: November 2018

Neuroethics is typically conceived of as consisting of two traditions: the ethics of neuroscience and the neuroscience of moral judgment. However, recent work has sought to draw philosophical and ethical implications from the neuroscience of moral judgment. Such work, which concernsnormative moral neuroscience(NMN), is sufficiently distinct and complex to deserve recognition as a third tradition of neuroethics. Recognizing it as such can reduce confusion among researchers, eliminating conflations among both critics and proponents of NMN.

This article identifies and unpacks some of the most prominent goals, characteristic assumptions, and unique arguments in NMN and addresses some of the strongest objections NMN faces. The paper synthesizes these considerations into a set of heuristics, or loose discovery principles, that can help overcome obstacles in and attenuate resistance to NMN. These heuristics may simultaneously help identify those projects in NMN that are most likely to be fruitful and help fortify them.
Following Through on an Intention to Vote: Present Bias and Turnout
Authors: Hill Seth J.
Published: November 2018

Many citizens express an intention to vote but then fail to follow through on their motivation. It is well known that impulsiveness contributes to unsound behaviors with adverse individual consequences like smoking, overeating, and undersaving. I apply these findings and theory to political participation and argue that present bias is also likely to limit collective behaviors. Those who desire to act are challenged by impulsiveness in following through on their motivation. In a nationally representative survey merged to administrative records, those with present bias are around ten points less likely to vote. Importantly, those with present bias are less likely to vote even after expressing pre-election intention to do so. Along with a formal decision-theoretic model of turnout with present bias, the results provide a new framework to reason about the choice to vote, an alternative interpretation of the over-report of turnout, and have implications for policy approaches to promote individual action in the public interest.
14C content in CANDU spent fuel cladings and its release under alkaline conditions
Authors: Bucur C , Fulger M , Florea I , Tudose A
Published: November 2018

The total 14C content and its partition between inorganic and organic species were measured on irradiated Zy-4 samples from a CANDU spent fuel rod transferred from Cernavoda Nuclear Power Plant (NPP). Long-term leaching tests and accelerated corrosion tests were carried out to measure the 14C release and corrosion rate, respectively, in chemical conditions relevant to cementitious environment. Experimentally measured 14C inventory was compared to the theoretically one predicted based on the irradiation history and impurity content of Zy-4 by means of ORIGEN computations. CANDU SF claddings have a 14C content of around 2 × 104 Bq/g of Zy-4, mainly as organic compounds (more than 99%). The total 14C content measured by acid dissolution/wet oxidation method is in good agreement with the value estimated by ORIGEN simulations for an average burn-up of 7 MWd/kgU. The total 14C released as dissolved species after 18 days and 18 months of Zy-4 immersing in alkaline solution are similar, indicating that a small amount of 14C was available as instant release fraction (0.05% from the initial 14C content) followed by a very low release rate that could not be measured by liquid scintillation counting. In alkaline conditions, 14C is released predominantly (∼70%) as soluble species, but also inorganic 14C was measured as gaseous species. From the soluble 14C released during leaching test, more than 60% was found to be as organic species. Generally, corrosion rates values ranging between 46 and 130 nm/yr were measured by the linear polarization resistance method. In addition, defects and cracks were observed on the oxide layer by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigation.
Fields of Definition for Representations of Associative Algebras
Authors: Benson Dave , Reichstein Zinovy
Published: November 2018

We examine situations, where representations of a finite-dimensionalF-algebraAdefined over a separable extension fieldK/F, have a unique minimal field of definition. Here the base fieldFis assumed to be a field of dimension ≼1. In particular,Fcould be a finite field ork(t) ork((t)), wherekis algebraically closed. We show that a unique minimal field of definition exists if (a)K/Fis an algebraic extension or (b)Ais of finite representation type. Moreover, in these situations the minimal field of definition is a finite extension ofF. This is not the case ifAis of infinite representation type orFfails to be of dimension ≼1. As a consequence, we compute the essential dimension of the functor of representations of a finite group, generalizing a theorem of Karpenko, Pevtsova and the second author.
Multiscale modelling and homogenisation of fibre-reinforced hydrogels for tissue engineering
Authors: CHEN M. J. , KIMPTON L. S. , WHITELEY J. P. , CASTILHO M. , MALDA J. , PLEASE C. P. , WATERS S. L. , BYRNE H. M.
Published: November 2018

Tissue engineering aims to grow artificial tissues in vitro to replace those in the body that have been damaged through age, trauma or disease. A recent approach to engineer artificial cartilage involves seeding cells within a scaffold consisting of an interconnected 3D-printed lattice of polymer fibres combined with a cast or printed hydrogel, and subjecting the construct (cell-seeded scaffold) to an applied load in a bioreactor. A key question is to understand how the applied load is distributed throughout the construct. To address this, we employ homogenisation theory to derive equations governing the effective macroscale material properties of a periodic, elastic–poroelastic composite. We treat the fibres as a linear elastic material and the hydrogel as a poroelastic material, and exploit the disparate length scales (small inter-fibre spacing compared with construct dimensions) to derive macroscale equations governing the response of the composite to an applied load. This homogenised description reflects the orthotropic nature of the composite. To validate the model, solutions from finite element simulations of the macroscale, homogenised equations are compared to experimental data describing the unconfined compression of the fibre-reinforced hydrogels. The model is used to derive the bulk mechanical properties of a cylindrical construct of the composite material for a range of fibre spacings and to determine the local mechanical environment experienced by cells embedded within the construct.
Contested Conquests:African Maroons and the Incomplete Conquest of Hispaniola, 1519–1620
Authors: Schwaller Robert C.
Published: November 2018

On July 13, 1571, King Philip II of Spain, via a real cédula, authorized the Audiencia of Santo Domingo to enact plans to “conquer” a community of Africancimarrones(maroons, runaway slaves) located about 36 miles from the city of Santo Domingo. The king offered to those who ventured forth compensation in the form of the cimarrones they captured as slaves. At face value, the substance of this order was not particularly unique. Since the 1520s, runaway African slaves had formed maroon communities in remote regions bordering Spanish conquests. By the 1570s, African maroons could be found in practically every part of Spanish America. The uniqueness of Philip's order comes from the choice of language, in particular the decision to label the expedition a conquest. In most cases, the monarch or his officials used words like ‘reduce’ (reducir/reducciones), ‘pacify’ (pacificar/pacificación), ‘castigate’ (castigar), or ‘dislodge’ (desechar) to describe the goal of such campaigns. By describing an anti-maroon campaign as a conquest, this cédula went against the dominant Spanish narrative of the sixteenth century, in which resistance, especially by Africans or native groups, signified a punctuated disturbance of an ostensibly stable and coherent postconquest colonial order. The wording of the cédula, and the maroon movements to which it responded, explicitly link anti-maroon campaigns to the process of Spanish conquest. This article suggests that Spanish-maroon contestation on Hispaniola should be construed as an integral piece of a prolonged and often incomplete Spanish conquest. More importantly, this reevaluation of the conflict reveals maroons to be conquerors in their own right.
In a “Half-dark, Half-light Zone”: Mobility, Precarity, and Moral Ambiguity in Vietnam's Urban Waste Economy
Authors: Nguyen Minh T.N.
Published: November 2018

This article discusses the everyday practices of a mobile network of migrant waste traders originating from northern Vietnam, locating them in an expanding urban waste economy spanning across major urban centres. Based on ethnographic research, I explore how the expansion of the network is foregrounded by the traders’ dealing with the precarious nature of waste trading, which is rooted in the social ambiguity of waste and migrants working with waste in the urban order. Characterised by waste traders as a “half-dark, half-light zone”, the waste economy is unevenly regulated, made up of highly personalised ties, and relatively hidden from the public. It is therefore rife with opportunities for accumulating wealth, but also full of dangers for the waste traders, whose occupation of marginal urban spaces makes them easy targets of both rent-seeking state agents and rogue actors. While demonstrating resilience, their practices suggest tactics of engaging with power that involve a great deal of moral ambiguity, which I argue is central to the increasing precaritisation of labour and the economy in Vietnam today.
Free-space creation of ultralong anti-diffracting beam with multiple energy oscillations adjusted using optical pen
Authors: Weng Xiaoyu , Song Qiang , Li Xiaoming , Gao Xiumin , Guo Hanming , Qu Junle , Zhuang Songlin
Published: November 2018

A light beam propagating over an infinite anti-diffracting distance requires infinite power to preserve its shape. However, the fundamental barrier of finite power in free space has made the problem of diffraction insurmountable in recent decades. To overcome this limitation, we report an approach that employs the multiple energy oscillation mechanism, thereby permitting the creation of a light beam with an ultralong anti-diffracting distance in free space. A versatile optical pen is therefore developed to manipulate the number, amplitude, position and phase of energy oscillations for a focusing lens so that multiple energy oscillations can be realized. A light beam with a tunable number of energy oscillations is eventually generated in free space and propagates along a wavy trajectory. This work will enable the extension of non-diffractive light beams to an expanded realm and facilitate extensive developments in optics and other research fields, such as electronics and acoustics.
A preclinical model of chronic pancreatitis driven by trypsinogen autoactivation
Authors: Geisz Andrea , Sahin-Tóth Miklós
Published: November 2018

Inflammatory diseases of the pancreas have no specific therapy. Discovery of the genetic basis of chronic pancreatitis identified the digestive enzyme trypsin as a therapeutic target. Preclinical testing of trypsin inhibition has been hampered by the lack of animal models. Here we report the T7D23A knock-in mouse, which carries a heterozygous p.D23A mutation in mouse cationic trypsinogen (isoform T7). This trypsinogen mutant autoactivates to trypsin 50-fold faster than wild type. T7D23A mice develop spontaneous acute pancreatitis with edema, necrosis and serum amylase elevation at an early age followed by progressive atrophic chronic pancreatitis with acinar cell loss, fibrosis, dilated ducts and adipose replacement. Markedly elevated trypsin activity is apparent at first signs of pancreatitis and persists into later stages of the disease. This remarkable model provides in vivo proof of concept that trypsinogen autoactivation can drive onset and progression of chronic pancreatitis and therapy should be directed against intra-pancreatic trypsin.
Disease-associated genotypes of the commensal skin bacterium Staphylococcus epidermidis
Authors: Méric Guillaume , Mageiros Leonardos , Pensar Johan , Laabei Maisem , Yahara Koji , Pascoe Ben , Kittiwan Nattinee , Tadee Phacharaporn , Post Virginia , Lamble Sarah , Bowden Rory , Bray James E. , Morgenstern Mario , Jolley Keith A. , Maiden Martin C. J. , Feil Edward J. , Didelot Xavier , Miragaia Maria , de Lencastre Herminia , Moriarty T. Fintan , Rohde Holger , Massey Ruth , Mack Dietrich , Corander Jukka , Sheppard Samuel K.
Published: November 2018

Some of the most common infectious diseases are caused by bacteria that naturally colonise humans asymptomatically. Combating these opportunistic pathogens requires an understanding of the traits that differentiate infecting strains from harmless relatives. Staphylococcus epidermidis is carried asymptomatically on the skin and mucous membranes of virtually all humans but is a major cause of nosocomial infection associated with invasive procedures. Here we address the underlying evolutionary mechanisms of opportunistic pathogenicity by combining pangenome-wide association studies and laboratory microbiology to compare S. epidermidis from bloodstream and wound infections and asymptomatic carriage. We identify 61 genes containing infection-associated genetic elements (k-mers) that correlate with in vitro variation in known pathogenicity traits (biofilm formation, cell toxicity, interleukin-8 production, methicillin resistance). Horizontal gene transfer spreads these elements, allowing divergent clones to cause infection. Finally, Random Forest model prediction of disease status (carriage vs. infection) identifies pathogenicity elements in 415 S. epidermidis isolates with 80% accuracy, demonstrating the potential for identifying risk genotypes pre-operatively.
The phospholipid PI(3,4)P2 is an apical identity determinant
Authors: Román-Fernández Álvaro , Roignot Julie , Sandilands Emma , Nacke Marisa , Mansour Mohammed A. , McGarry Lynn , Shanks Emma , Mostov Keith E. , Bryant David M.
Published: November 2018

Apical-basal polarization is essential for epithelial tissue formation, segregating cortical domains to perform distinct physiological functions. Cortical lipid asymmetry has emerged as a determinant of cell polarization. We report a network of phosphatidylinositol phosphate (PIP)-modifying enzymes, some of which are transcriptionally induced upon embedding epithelial cells in extracellular matrix, and that are essential for apical-basal polarization. Unexpectedly, we find that PI(3,4)P2 localization and function is distinct from the basolateral determinant PI(3,4,5)P3. PI(3,4)P2 localizes to the apical surface, and Rab11a-positive apical recycling endosomes. PI(3,4)P2 is produced by the 5-phosphatase SHIP1 and Class-II PI3-Kinases to recruit the endocytic regulatory protein SNX9 to basolateral domains that are being remodeled into apical surfaces. Perturbing PI(3,4)P2 levels results in defective polarization through subcortical retention of apically destined vesicles at apical membrane initiation sites. We conclude that PI(3,4)P2 is a determinant of apical membrane identity.
39Ar dating with small samples provides new key constraints on ocean ventilation
Authors: Ebser Sven , Kersting Arne , Stöven Tim , Feng Zhongyi , Ringena Lisa , Schmidt Maximilian , Tanhua Toste , Aeschbach Werner , Oberthaler Markus K.
Published: November 2018

Ocean ventilation is the integrated effect of various processes that exchange surface properties with the ocean interior and is essential for oxygen supply, storage of anthropogenic carbon and the heat budget of the ocean, for instance. Current observational methods utilise transient tracers, e.g. tritium, SF6, CFCs and 14C. However, their dating ranges are not ideal to resolve the centennial-dynamics of the deep ocean, a gap filled by the noble gas isotope 39Ar with a half-life of 269 years. Its broad application has been hindered by its very low abundance, requiring 1000 L of water for dating. Here we show successful 39Ar dating with 5 L of water based on the atom-optical technique Atom Trap Trace Analysis. Our data reveal previously not quantifiable ventilation patterns in the Tropical Atlantic, where we find that advection is more important for the ventilation of the intermediate depth range than previously assumed. Now, the demonstrated analytical capabilities allow for a global collection of 39Ar data, which will have significant impact on our ability to quantify ocean ventilation.
Communication and quorum sensing in non-living mimics of eukaryotic cells
Authors: Niederholtmeyer Henrike , Chaggan Cynthia , Devaraj Neal K.
Published: November 2018

Cells in tissues or biofilms communicate with one another through chemical and mechanical signals to coordinate collective behaviors. Non-living cell mimics provide simplified models of natural systems; however, it has remained challenging to implement communication capabilities comparable to living cells. Here we present a porous artificial cell-mimic containing a nucleus-like DNA-hydrogel compartment that is able to express and display proteins, and communicate with neighboring cell-mimics through diffusive protein signals. We show that communication between cell-mimics allows distribution of tasks, quorum sensing, and cellular differentiation according to local environment. Cell-mimics can be manufactured in large quantities, easily stored, chemically modified, and spatially organized into diffusively connected tissue-like arrangements, offering a means for studying communication in large ensembles of artificial cells.
Single-cell RNA sequencing unveils an IL-10-producing helper subset that sustains humoral immunity during persistent infection
Authors: Xin Gang , Zander Ryan , Schauder David M. , Chen Yao , Weinstein Jason S. , Drobyski William R. , Tarakanova Vera , Craft Joseph , Cui Weiguo
Published: November 2018

During chronic viral infection, the inflammatory function of CD4 T-cells becomes gradually attenuated. Concurrently, Th1 cells progressively acquire the capacity to secrete the cytokine IL-10, a potent suppressor of antiviral T cell responses. To determine the transcriptional changes that underlie this adaption process, we applied a single-cell RNA-sequencing approach and assessed the heterogeneity of IL-10-expressing CD4 T-cells during chronic infection. Here we show an IL-10-producing population with a robust Tfh-signature. Using IL-10 and IL-21 double-reporter mice, we further demonstrate that IL-10+IL-21+co-producing Tfh cells arise predominantly during chronic but not acute LCMV infection. Importantly, depletion of IL-10+IL-21+co-producing CD4 T-cells or deletion of Il10 specifically in Tfh cells results in impaired humoral immunity and viral control. Mechanistically, B cell-intrinsic IL-10 signaling is required for sustaining germinal center reactions. Thus, our findings elucidate a critical role for Tfh-derived IL-10 in promoting humoral immunity during persistent viral infection.
Tuning anhydrous proton conduction in single-ion polymers by crystalline ion channels
Authors: Kim Onnuri , Kim Kyoungwook , Choi U. Hyeok , Park Moon Jeong
Published: November 2018

The synthesis of high-conductivity solid-state electrolyte materials with eliminated polarization loss is a great challenge. Here we show a promising potential of single-ion block copolymers with crystalline protogenic channels as efficient proton conductors. Through the self-organization of zwitterion, imidazole, and polystyrene sulfonate with controlled dipolar interactions therein, the distance between neighboring proton donors and acceptors in ionic crystals, as well as the dipolar orientation in nanoscale ionic phases was precisely tuned. This allowed a markedly high static dielectric constant comparable to water and fast structural diffusion of protons with a low potential barrier for single-ion polymers. The optimized sample exhibited a high proton diffusion coefficient of 2.4 × 10–6 cm2 s–1 under anhydrous conditions at 90 °C.
Dynamic and non-contact 3D sample rotation for microscopy
Authors: Berndt Frederic , Shah Gopi , Power Rory M. , Brugués Jan , Huisken Jan
Published: November 2018

Precise sample orientation is crucial for microscopy but is often performed with macroscopic tools and low accuracy. In vivo imaging of growing and developing samples even requires dynamic adaptation of the sample orientation to continuously achieve optimal imaging. Here, we present a method for freely positioning a sample in 3D by introducing magnetic beads and applying a magnetic field. We demonstrate magnetic orientation of fixed mouse embryos and artemia, and live zebrafish embryos and larvae on an epi-fluorescence microscope and on a light-sheet system for optimal imaging.
Metal-organic framework glasses with permanent accessible porosity
Authors: Zhou Chao , Longley Louis , Krajnc Andraž , Smales Glen J. , Qiao Ang , Erucar Ilknur , Doherty Cara M. , Thornton Aaron W. , Hill Anita J. , Ashling Christopher W. , Qazvini Omid T. , Lee Seok J. , Chater Philip A. , Terrill Nicholas J. , Smith Andrew J. , Yue Yuanzheng , Mali Gregor , Keen David A. , Telfer Shane G. , Bennett Thomas D.
Published: November 2018

To date, only several microporous, and even fewer nanoporous, glasses have been produced, always via post synthesis acid treatment of phase separated dense materials, e.g. Vycor glass. In contrast, high internal surface areas are readily achieved in crystalline materials, such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). It has recently been discovered that a new family of melt quenched glasses can be produced from MOFs, though they have thus far lacked the accessible and intrinsic porosity of their crystalline precursors. Here, we report the first glasses that are permanently and reversibly porous toward incoming gases, without post-synthetic treatment. We characterize the structure of these glasses using a range of experimental techniques, and demonstrate pores in the range of 4 – 8 Å. The discovery of MOF glasses with permanent accessible porosity reveals a new category of porous glass materials that are elevated beyond conventional inorganic and organic porous glasses by their diversity and tunability.
Multi-decadal to centennial hydro-climate variability and linkage to solar forcing in the Western Mediterranean during the last 1000 years
Authors: Ait Brahim Yassine , Wassenburg Jasper A. , Cruz Francisco W. , Sifeddine Abdelfettah , Scholz Denis , Bouchaou Lhoussaine , Dassié Emilie P. , Jochum Klaus P. , Edwards R. Lawrence , Cheng Hai
Published: November 2018

Here we present a new composite record from two well-dated speleothem records from two caves in Northern Morocco. The high-resolution record covers the last millennium allowing to detect multi-decadal to centennial periodicities. Over the industrial period, δ18O values of our speleothems are shown to be dominated by the main mode of decadal variability in the North Atlantic region: the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO). Statistical analyses confirm the previously reported multi-decadal variability related to the influence of the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) in the region. High power and persistent centennial-scale periodicities, similar to the Vries-Suess 200-year solar cycle, are observed as well. Indeed, comparison between solar activity reconstructions and our record confirms the in-phase relationship on centennial time-scales. Low δ18O values, and hence negative phases of NAO that bring precipitation towards the Western Mediterranean, are observed during well-known solar minima periods. The results are consistent with previous models which describe low irradiance as a  trigger for southward shifts of precipitation-bearing westerlies during winter.
Differentiating human pluripotent stem cells into vascular smooth muscle cells in three dimensional thermoreversible hydrogels
Authors: Lin Haishuang , Du Qian , Li Qiang , Wang Ou , Wang Zhanqi , Liu Kan , Akert Leonard , Zhang Chi , Chung Soonkyu , Duan Bin , Lei Yuguo
Published: November 2018

3D thermoreversible PNIPAAm-PEG hydrogels are used for scalable production of human pluripotent stem cell-derived vascular smooth muscle cells.
Excited-state dynamics of a molecular dyad with two orthogonally-oriented fluorophores
Authors: Letrun Romain , Lang Bernhard , Yushchenko Oleksandr , Wilcken Roland , Svechkarev Denis , Kolodieznyi Dmytro , Riedle Eberhard , Vauthey Eric
Published: November 2018

Intramolecular charge separation and enhanced spin orbit coupling explain the weak fluorescence of a T-shaped dyad comprising two strong fluorophores.
Synthesis, structure, docking and cytotoxic studies of ferrocene–hormone conjugates for hormone-dependent breast cancer application
Authors: Carmona-Negrón José A. , Santana Alberto , Rheingold Arnold L. , Meléndez Enrique
Published: November 2018

Ferrocene–estrogen conjugates can be recognized by ERα, suggesting that estrogens could serve as vectors to target specifically breast cancer cell lines.
Controlling the distance of highly confined droplets in a capillary by interfacial tension for merging on-demand
Authors: Ferraro D. , Serra M. , Filippi D. , Zago L. , Guglielmin E. , Pierno M. , Descroix S. , Viovy J.-L. , Mistura G.
Published: November 2018

Confined droplet speed and distance control devoted to merging-on-demand in a uniform cross-section microchannel, based on interfacial tension difference and suitable for enzymatic reaction investigations.
Green biomimetic preparation of efficient Ag–ZnO heterojunctions with excellent photocatalytic performance under solar light irradiation: a novel biogenic-deposition-precipitation approach
Authors: Choudhary Manoj Kumar , Kataria Jyoti , Bhardwaj Vimal Kumar , Sharma Shweta
Published: November 2018

A novel biogenic-deposition-precipitation (BDP) approach has been presented for the preparation of stable binary composites using fennel seed extract.
Augmented band gap tunability in indium-doped zinc sulfide nanocrystals
Authors: Della Gaspera Enrico , Griggs Joseph , Ahmed Taimur , Walia Sumeet , Mayes Edwin L. H. , Calzolari Arrigo , Catellani Alessandra , van Embden Joel
Published: November 2018

Indium doping in ZnS nanocrystals heavily affects the band gap beyond quantum confinement effect with unprecedented tunability in the UVA/UVB range.
Synthesis of highly reactive polyisobutylenesviacationic polymerization in ionic liquids: characteristics and mechanism
Authors: Li Xiaoning , Wu Yibo , Zhang Jinghan , Li Shuxin , Zhang Min , Yang Dan , Wang Hao , Shang Yuwei , Guo Wenli , Yan Penghua
Published: November 2018

The cationic polymerization of isobutylene (IB) was systematically studied in a 1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium hexafluorophosphate ([Bmim][PF6]) ionic liquid at −10 °C.
A fast semi-continuous anionic process for fluorene-functionalized homo and block oligomers with uniform molecular weights
Authors: Pu Xinming , He Junpo
Published: November 2018

A semi-continuous strategy based on anionic reactions was developed for the step-by-step synthesis of oligomers with uniform molecular weights.
Naphthomycin-derived macrolactams with two new carbon skeletons from endophytic Streptomyces
Authors: Zhang Zhouxin , Cao Pei , Shang Ning-Ning , Yang Jing , Wang Li , Yan Yijun , Huang Sheng-Xiong
Published: November 2018

A cytotoxic ansamycin class of natural products with two new carbon skeletons was isolated and characterized from endophytic Streptomyces.
Correction: A microRNA-4516 inhibitor sensitizes chemo-resistant gastric cancer cells to chemotherapy by upregulating ING4
Authors: Liu Jun-bao , Chen Dan , Liu Hai-xia , Sha Huan-huan , Song Dan , Bao Ting-ting , Lu Jian-wei , Yu Chen
Published: November 2018

Correction for ‘A microRNA-4516 inhibitor sensitizes chemo-resistant gastric cancer cells to chemotherapy by upregulating ING4’ by Jun-bao Liu et al., RSC Adv., 2018, 8, 37795–37803.
Heterologous biosynthesis of elsinochrome A sheds light on the formation of the photosensitive perylenequinone system
Authors: Hu Jinyu , Sarrami Farzaneh , Li Hang , Zhang Guozhi , Stubbs Keith A. , Lacey Ernest , Stewart Scott G. , Karton Amir , Piggott Andrew M. , Chooi Yit-Heng
Published: November 2018

Formation of the three C–C bridges between the two naphthol monomers for elsinochrome (1) involves three distinct classes of oxidases.
Controlling the speciation and reactivity of carbon-supported gold nanostructures for catalysed acetylene hydrochlorination
Authors: Kaiser Selina K. , Lin Ronghe , Mitchell Sharon , Fako Edvin , Krumeich Frank , Hauert Roland , Safonova Olga V. , Kondratenko Vita A. , Kondratenko Evgenii V. , Collins Sean M. , Midgley Paul A. , López Núria , Pérez-Ramírez Javier
Published: November 2018

Distinct gold nanostructures on activated and nitrogen-doped carbons are evaluated in acetylene hydrochlorination.
Supramolecular cage encapsulation as a versatile tool for the experimental quantification of aromatic stacking interactions
Authors: Bravin Carlo , Licini Giulia , Hunter Christopher A. , Zonta Cristiano
Published: November 2018

A Double Mutant Cycle is built up using a supramolecular cage that binds two aromatic carboxylates in a stacked geometry is used to quantify aromatic stacking interactions.
Pyrrolysine in archaea: a 22nd amino acid encoded through a genetic code expansion
Authors: Brugère Jean-François , Atkins John F. , O'Toole Paul W. , Borrel Guillaume
Published: November 2018

The 22nd amino acid discovered to be directly encoded, pyrrolysine, is specified by UAG. Until recently, pyrrolysine was only known to be present in archaea from a methanogenic lineage (Methanosarcinales), where it is important in enzymes catalysing anoxic methylamines metabolism, and a few anaerobic bacteria. Relatively new discoveries have revealed wider presence in archaea, deepened functional understanding, shown remarkable carbon source-dependent expression of expanded decoding and extended exploitation of the pyrrolysine machinery for synthetic code expansion. At the same time, other studies have shown the presence of pyrrolysine-containing archaea in the human gut and this has prompted health considerations. The article reviews our knowledge of this fascinating exception to the ‘standard’ genetic code.
Decentralised‐distributed hybrid voltage regulation of power distribution networks based on power inverters
Authors: Wang Yu , Xu Yan , Tang Yi , Syed Mazheruddin Hussain , Guillo‐Sansano Efren , Burt Graeme M.
Published: November 2018

In modern power distribution networks, voltage fluctuations and violations are becoming two major voltage quality issues due to high‐level penetration of stochastic renewable energies (e.g. wind and solar power). In this study, a hybrid control strategy based on power inverters for voltage regulation in distribution networks is proposed. Firstly, a decentralised voltage control is designed to regulate voltage ramp‐rate for mitigating voltage fluctuations. As a beneficial by‐product, the var capacity from the inverters become smoothed. Then, a distributed voltage control is developed to fairly utilise the var capacity of each inverter to regulate the network voltage deviations. Furthermore, once there is a shortage of var capacity from inverters, on‐load tap changers control will supplement to provide additional voltage regulation support. The simulation results on IEEE 33‐bus distribution network with real‐world data have validated the effectiveness of the proposed voltage regulation method.
DC current bus distributed power system and its stability analysis
Authors: Wei Yuqi , Luo Quanming , Chen Si , Huang Jian , Zhou Luowei
Published: November 2018

DC distributed power systems (DPSs) have attained much attention because of its characteristics of high efficiency, high power density and flexible configuration. However, when converters are interconnected in a system, adverse interactions may occur due to the converter sensitivity to the external impedance, these interactions may degrade converters transient performance or cause stability issues. Currently, research mainly focuses on DPS with a DC voltage bus, including stability analysis and approaches to improve system stability. This study is to establish stability criteria for DPS with a DC current bus. Firstly, basic current type DC/DC converters and their small signal models are introduced. Then, the current bus DPS is derived, discussed, and the stability criteria are obtained by using two‐port small signal model. The proposed criteria are verified by comparing the results of theoretical calculations and simulations. Finally, an experimental prototype is built to validate the theoretical analysis and simulation.
A step‐up switched‐capacitor multilevel inverter based on 5‐level T‐type modules
Authors: Khodaparast Aryorad , Adabi Jafar , Rezanejad Mohammad
Published: November 2018

The paper presents a new transformer‐less step‐up multilevel inverter structure with a single DC source. The concept was based on cascaded connection of bipolar T‐type 5‐level modules. Proper charging and discharging of capacitors across the load in prearranged time durations would make a nearly sinusoidal staircase voltage. The output voltage amplitude was several times greater than the DC input depending on the number of modules and charging mode of the capacitors. Multiplying the input voltage, self‐balancing, generating bipolar voltage waveform, easy circuit expansion and considerably low THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) were found to be the advantages of the proposed topology. The paper also adds operating principle, simulation and experimental results of a 29‐level prototype based on the presented inverter structure.
Gas–liquid flow field analysis of the compressor vorticity and rotational speed based on NASA Stage 36
Authors: Wang Liwen , Hu Jianwei , Liu Qiang , Tang Jie , Shi Xudong
Published: November 2018

The aero‐engine to be cleaned online can significantly improve compressor performance and increase maintenance intervals, but the cleaning online cannot achieve the anticipated effects due to the lack of cognisance of the internal multiphase flow field. In order to explore the characteristics of the compressor's internal flow field, a compressor and nozzle's flow channel model was established based on the data of the Rotor36 compressor blades published by NASA. The fluid simulation software was used to analyse the effects of circumferential vortex and axial vortex on the wall surface at different jet parameters and characteristics of the gas–liquid flow field formed by the compressor blades at different rotation speeds. It is concluded that the flow field formed at a jet pressure of 5 atm and a rotational speed of 2880 rpm is more favourable to the removal of fouling.
Septische Granulomatose als seltene Differenzialdiagnose einer chronisch-entzündlichen Darmerkrankung
Authors: Metzger Jan-Christopher , Kurz Elena , von Spee-Mayer Caroline , Kolck Gesa , Bogumil Alexander , Galle Peter , Zimmermann Tim
Published: November 2018

Hintergrund Die septische Granulomatose ist eine seltene Granulozytenfunktionsstörung mit einer Prävalenz von etwa 150 Fällen in Deutschland. In der Literatur sind nur wenige Fälle mit einer intestinalen Manifestation, die als eine chronisch-entzündliche Darmerkrankung (CED) imponiert, beschrieben. Durch eine gestörte Superoxid-Bildung kommt es zu Infektionen mit seltenen Erregern, die häufig in Form pulmonaler Infekte, Lymphadenopathien und Leberabszessen auftreten. Wir präsentieren den Fall eines 28-jährigen Patienten, bei dem bereits im Alter von 2 Jahren die Diagnose einer CED gestellt wurde, der sich aktuell mit dem Bild einer therapierefraktären CED und rezidivierenden Leberabszessen vorstellte.

Methoden Patientendaten, Laborwerte, endoskopische, radiologische und histologische Befunde wurden erhoben. Granulozytenfunktionstests sowie eine genetische Analyse wurden durchgeführt. Es erfolgte eine selektive Literaturrecherche in der PubMed-Datenbank. Die aktuell verfügbare Literatur wurde zusammengefasst.

Fallbericht Unter langjähriger Immunsuppression, zuletzt mit dem TNF-Blocker Adalimumab und im Anschluss mit dem darmselektiven Integrin-Antagonist Vedolizumab kam es zu rezidivierenden Leberabszessen mit Nachweis eines gut sensiblen Staphylococcus aureus im Abszesspunktat. In der Koloskopie zeigten sich eine Rektumstenose sowie eine mäßige entzündliche Aktivität. Angesichts eines fehlenden Ansprechens der intestinalen Symptomatik auf sämtliche CED-Therapieversuche, einer floriden Akne und rezidivierenden, kaum kontrollierbaren, hepatischen Abszessen mit nicht primär intestinalen Erregern, stellten wir den Verdacht auf eine Granulozytenfunktionsstörung. In der Durchflusszytometrie sowie im oxidativen Burst-Test bestätigte sich die Diagnose einer septischen Granulomatose. Die genetische Untersuchung ergab eine homozygote Mutation des auf Chromosom 7 liegenden p47phox (NCF1)-Gens, welche mit 20 – 25 % die häufigste autosomal-rezessiv vererbte Form darstellt.

Ergebnisse Der Fall zeigt vor dem Hintergrund der aktuellen Literatur, dass besonders bei jungen Patienten mit therapieresistenten CED-ähnlichen Krankheitsbildern in Kombination mit infektiösen Komplikationen durch nicht darmtypische Erreger differenzialdiagnostisch an eine septische Granulomatose zu denken ist.
Der Notfallsanitäter im Ergänzungslehrgang – Analyse der Notfallsanitäter-Ergänzungsprüfungen 10/2015 bis 10/2016 an einem Simulationsmodell
Authors: Jansen Gerrit , Latka Eugen , Mertzlufft Fritz
Published: November 2018

Einleitung Im sogenannten Pyramidenprozess sind medizinische und medikamentöse Maßnahmen zur eigenständigen Durchführung durch Notfallsanitäter (NS) definiert. Besonders seitens ärztlicher Berufsverbände bestehen Vorbehalte gegenüber der Durchführung dieser Maßnahmen durch nichtärztliches Personal. Ziel dieser Arbeit ist es, die strukturierte, interdisziplinäre Notfallversorgung durch NS anhand des ABCDE-Schemas (ABCDE-S) sowie auftretende Fehler bei Maßnahmen des Pyramidenprozesses zu evaluieren.

Material und Methoden Vom 01.10.2015 bis 31.10.2016 wurden Rettungsassistenten mit ≥ 5 Jahren Berufserfahrung im Rahmen der 80-h-Ergänzungskurse zum NS in einem sowohl für traumatologische (TN) als auch für nicht traumatologische (NTN) Notfälle konzipierten ABCDE-S geschult. In den Prüfungen am Simulationsmodell wurden Akzeptanz, Versorgungszeit, durchgeführte Maßnahmen und auftretende Fehler erfasst und ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse In 65,3% (T: 60,8%, NT: 71,1%) erfolgte die Versorgung gemäß des ABCDE-S. Eine komplette Notfallversorgung wurde durchschnittlich in 13:28 Minuten durchgeführt. Die inkorrekte Anwendung von medizinischen (4,9%) bzw. medikamentösen (4,1%) Maßnahmen war selten.

Schlussfolgerung Das ABCDE-S ist im Simulationsmodell sowohl für die Versorgung von TN als auch für NTN geeignet. NS sind in der Lage, eine strukturierte erweiterte Notfallversorgung innerhalb von 15 Minuten durchzuführen. Fehler im Zusammenhang mit erweiterten medizinischen oder medikamentösen Maßnahmen waren im Simulationsmodell selten.
Evaluating Resident Training in Oculoplastic Surgery: A Case Series of 104 Eviscerations
Authors: Simmons Brittany , Artymowicz Anna , Gonzalez Mithra
Published: November 2018

Purpose The aim of this study is to evaluate resident surgical performance based on complications after ocular evisceration.

Methods A retrospective chart review of eviscerations performed between October 2011 and May 2017 by ophthalmology residents as the primary or assistant surgeon under the guidance of a single oculofacial plastic surgeon (M.O.G.) was completed. Data collected included reason for evisceration, resident participation in the case and resident's month of oculoplastic training, surgical technique, subsequent complications, and duration of follow-up.

Results There were no significant differences in complication rates or surgical sequelae in resident-led versus attending-led surgeries. The complication rate for all cases in total was 5.77%. A slight negative correlation existed between the resident's month of training and the presence of postoperative complications. The number of adverse events was found to be significantly correlated with the duration of patient follow-up.

Discussion Ocular eviscerations performed by ophthalmology residents as primary surgeons achieve outcomes equivalent to published reports, suggesting ocular eviscerations are a safe, effective procedure wherein residents can refine surgical skills. Some surgical sequelae may be linked to particular surgeons, implying evisceration outcomes can be used to assess resident surgical performance. Fewer adverse events arose as the resident's length of oculoplastic training increased, but this finding did not reach significance. Larger studies are needed to explore these trends.
Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and Psychological Wellbeing: A Scoping Review
Authors: McKay Kathy , Walmsley Martine , Senior Robert , Thorburn Douglas , Kennedy Eilis , Ranieri Veronica
Published: November 2018

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a chronic liver disease resulting from the inflammation and scarring of an individual's hepatic bile ducts. With no curative treatment available and a risk of potentially severe complications and death, it is likely that those diagnosed with the illness may experience impairments in their psychological wellbeing. The aim of this scoping review is to locate, chart, and summarize all available literature on how PSC affects mental health and psychological wellbeing, as well as the factors that may or may not impact on the psychological wellbeing of those who have this diagnosis. This exercise identified five key themes within the literature: prevalence and characteristics of mental health problems, quality of life, unmet needs, medical treatment, and biomarkers. Three key recommendations for clinical practice emerge from this review.