bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphologic and molecular evidence for gap junctions and connexin 43 and 45 expression in annulus fibrosus cells from the human intervertebral disc
Authors: Gruber Helen E. , Ma Defang , Hanley Edward N. , Ingram Jane , Yamaguchi Dean T.
Published: July 2002

Data are presented which provide evidence for gap junction formation and connexin (Cx) 43 and 45 gene expression in human intervertebral disc cells in vivo and in vitro. These findings in cells from the annulus are important in conjunction with the well‐recognized loss of disc cells during aging and disc degeneration. As a result of this loss of cells, cell‐cell communication, which we propose is an important, but as yet poorly understood, mechanism which links and coordinates cellular function throughout the entire population of disc cells, is also disrupted. These studies provide additional information on the fundamental cell biology of the disc cell and provide an additional framework for understanding aging, degeneration and potential repair of the human disc. © 2001 Orthopaedic Research Society. Punlished by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Depression in a sample of Turkish type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Sevincok L. , Guney E. , Uslu A. , Baklaci F.
Published: July 2002

Forty-one depressive and 57 nondepressive patients with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM, type 2) were compared for demographic and clinical variables. The depressive patients were more likely to have a history of depression than non-depressive patients. The female patients were more likely to have depression than males. Results suggest that depression in NIDDM was only associated with female gender and previous depressive episodes.
Cannabis, mind, and mirth
Authors: Ames FR , Castle DJ
Published: July 2002

In the context of the discovery of the cerebral ligand for the cannabis receptor, and the elucidation of its genetic sequence, we discuss the psychomimetic properties of Cannabis sativa, and explore the relationship between cannabis intoxication and mood. We suggest that renewed study of acute cannabis encephalopathy would be rewarding not only in deepening our understanding of consciousness in healthy adults, but also in helping us to understand the perceptual world of the child, the elderly, and some of our patients.
The dopamine D2 receptor gene TaqI A polymorphism is not associated with Novelty Seeking, Harm Avoidance and Reward Dependence in healthy subjects
Authors: de Brettes B , Berlin I , Laurent C , Lépine JP , Mallet J , Puech AJ
Published: July 2002

Allele A1 of the TaqI A restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) of the dopamine D2 receptor gene has been found to be associated with substance abuse and alcoholism. The personality trait of Novelty Seeking (NS) is also associated with substance abuse and dependence. We hypothesised, on the basis of involvement of dopaminergic mechanisms in substance abuse, that the presence of allele A1 of the dopamine D2 receptor gene may represent a genetic predisposition for the NS personality trait. We investigated, therefore, whether the allele A1 of the TaqI A RFLP of the dopamine D2 receptor gene is associated with the NS dimension of the Tridimensional Personality Questionnaire (TPQ) in healthy Caucasian subjects with no history of alcohol or substance abuse or dependence. We genotyped 204 subjects aged 18 to 30 years. There was no association between any of the alleles of the D2 receptor genes and any of the TPQ scores (NS, Harm Avoidance, Reward Dependence). We conclude that allele A1 of the TaqI A RFLP of the dopamine D2 receptor is not associated with NS personality trait in healthy Caucasian subjects.
Karl Marx and the Economics of Communism: Anniversary Recollections
Authors: Temkin Gabriel
Published: July 2002

This paper grew out of the author's Karl Marx studies and his practical knowledge of Soviet-type communist economies. It covers a broad spectrum of ideas and practices prevalent in those economies, which— rightly or wrongly—have become associated with Marx's teaching and predictions. Chapter I tries to explain the reasons for Marx's continuous popularity. Chapter II critically examines the validity of the claim about Marxian socialism being “scientific” as opposed to “utopian”. The article, especially in chapter III elaborates on a number of other Marxian ideas, like that of the so-called “anarchy of the market”, which for many decades exerted a negative influence on his followers—theoreticians and practitioners engaged in building what they believed to be a communist economy and society. One of the quintessential features of Marx's teaching, which he took over from Smith and Ricardo, was the labor theory of value and the “law of value” in particular. The latter, interpreted by Stalin as “the law of value under socialism”, was used by him for ideological and propaganda purposes, but after his death has in turn been utilized by Marxists, non-Marxists and anti-Marxists to discredit the Stalinist economic system, and to advance propositions ranking from profound, relevant and commendable to vague and frivolous. Tracing in Chapter IV the peripetia of this “law” provides a deeper insight into both the essential weaknesses of the Marxian theory and the acute dilemmas of the Soviet-type economies.
The Cardiac Insufficiency Talinolol Study (CITAS) study design
Authors: Campeanu Alexandru
Published: July 2002

Beta‐blockers without partial agonist activity are now considered to be strategic therapy for patients with chronic heart failure, but many issues remain to be clarified. The objective of the double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled cardiac insufficiency talinolol study (CITAS) is to assess efficacy and safety of talinolol — a selective beta‐1 adrenoreceptor blocker — in patients with ischemic and non‐ischemic heart failure. The primary end‐point refers to the influence of talinolol on exercise capacity, evaluated by 6‐min walking‐test. Secondary end‐points consist of left ventricular function, cardiovascular and all‐cause mortality, hospitalizations, quality of life, combined clinical end‐points and adverse events. There were enrolled 294 patients with stable heart failure in NYHA class II–IV, LVEF < 40%, receiving diuretics, ACE‐inhibitors and optionally nitrates and digoxin. Talinolol was titrated up to 100 mg/day (one arm) or to 150 mg/d (the other arm), starting with 12.5 mg daily. Enrollment began in November 1997 and the last visit will be in December 2000.
Integrating Qualified Nurses And Non‐Nurses In Midwifery Education: The Two‐Year Experience Of An Acnm Doa Accredited Program
Authors: Fullerton Judith T. , Shah Mary Ann , Schechter Suzanne , Muller Jessica H.
Published: July 2002

In 1996, the Division of Accreditation (DOA) of the American College of Nurse‐Midwives (ACNM) preaccredited the first direct entry program of midwifery education for candidates who already possess undergraduate degrees in non‐nursing disciplines. Inaugurated through the partnership of the State University of New York Health Science Center at Brooklyn and the North Central Bronx Hospital, this 1‐year, postbaccalaureate, certificate program of studies graduated two integrated classes of 22 registered nurse (RN) and nine direct entry (DE) students between 1997 and 1998.

This article presents the experience of the first 2 years of this innovative program, focusing on the profiles of the DE students, their achievements, and their experiences entering the workforce. All of the data comparing nurse and non‐nurse student progress through the program of studies strongly support the conclusion that, within an ACNM DOA preaccredited/accredited midwifery education program, DE students can achieve standards of academic excellence and clinical competency that are at least equivalent to those demonstrated by their RN peers.
Adsorption
Authors: Bastos‐Neto Moises , de Azevedo Diana Cristina Silva , de Lucena Sebastião Mardônio Pereira
Published: March 2020

Since the first theory of adsorption was proposed by Irving Langmuir in 1918, the body of practical and theoretical knowledge about adsorption has grown significantly. For example, large‐scale adsorption‐based processes allow separation of mixtures, such as multicomponent gas streams, which are impossible or too costly to be carried out by other operations. Interfacial interactions play key roles in heterogeneous catalysis, chromatographic separation, membrane filtration, environmental remediation, and better understanding of the adsorption phenomenon support development of new industrial materials and processes.

In this article, fundamental aspects related to adsorption, from thermodynamics at molecular level to column dynamics, are reviewed. Developments in the field, particularly related to novel materials and integrated multiscale approaches in process design, are also described.
Emulsions
Authors: Chandler Mark
Published: March 2020

Emulsions may be viewed as oil and water peacefully coexisting in varied ways. However, making emulsions is quite complex. This article is written from the point of view of a professional focusing on practical/industrial aspects and attempting to explain the fundamentals of creating emulsions for commercial use. The article starts with basic principles and then describes how to make stable emulsions, troubleshoot, and formulate new emulsion forms that provide enhanced effects.
Surfactants
Authors: Begum Farzana , Xu Liangchen , Amin Samiul
Published: March 2020

This article provides an overview of surfactants. Various types of surfactants, their physicochemical properties, such as CMC, Krafft point, cloud point are described. Types of surfactants and their applications in cosmetic/consumer products, pharmaceuticals, foods and petroleum are discussed. Key performance aspects of surfactants including foam stability, emulsification, and rheology modification are also discussed.
Alcohol and isolation: Experts comment on drinking behavior during COVID‐19
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2020

Are people drinking more now that they are locked in a house with their nearest and dearest, facing job loss or having lost a job, bored and stressed? Probably. Is drinking a healthy way of coping? No.
Addiction telemedicine comes into its own with COVID‐19
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2020

Telepsychiatry, telemental health, telepsychology, teletherapy — whatever you call it, it is now required in the era of the COVID‐19 pandemic. “We should be doing it immediately; the more, the better,” said Robert Caudill, M.D., a member of the American Psychiatric Association's Committee on Telepsychiatry. “It's exploded in the past week, obviously,” he told ADAW in a Zoom interview on March 23. But he thinks it should be the norm.
Diastereodivergent Formal 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition of 5‐alkenyl thiazolones to Access Stereochemically Diverse Pyrrolidinyl Spirooxindoles
Authors: He Yu , Liu Yue , Liu Yu , Kou Xin‐Xin , Li Qing‐Zhu , Li Jia‐Hong , Jiang He‐Zhong , Leng Hai‐Jun , Peng Cheng , Li Jun‐Long
Published: March 2020

We report here a stereoselective [3+2] cyclization of 5‐alkenyl thiazolones and ketimines that allows the assembly of three diastereoisomers through the combination of stereodivergent organocatalysis and the following diastereoselective transformation of products. A broad spectrum of pyrrolidinyl spirooxindoles featuring stereochemical diversity has been synthesized through organocatalytic formal 1,3‐dipolar cycloadditions with up to 98% yield, >20:1 dr and 99:1 er.

magnified image
A genetic variant of pri‐miR‐182 may impact the risk for the onset of multiple sclerosis in the Iranian population
Authors: Najafi Nadia , Peymani Maryam
Published: March 2020

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common autoimmune disease of the central nervous system affecting young adults. SNPs can be used as genetic biomarkers to identify disease‐related genes such as MS. Moreover, SNPs can be considered as important determinants for an increased risk of autoimmune diseases such as MS. Studies have shown that miR‐182 is of importance in Treg cell development and function as critical regulators in autoimmune disease. So far, no study has been conducted to investigate the association between rs4541843 polymorphism in pri‐miR‐182 and MS. In the present study, we assessed the frequency of rs4541843 different alleles and genotypes and their association with MS risk in Iranian population.

Methods

The rs4541843 was genotyped in 81 patients with MS and 89 healthy subjects, using the PCR‐RFLP method. The frequency of alleles and genotypes and the association of this polymorphism with MS risk and the gender of the patients was then statistically analyzed.

Results

Statistical analysis showed the protective role of AA genotype against MS risk (P = .031, OR = 0.348) while there was no significance correlation between the frequency of rs4541843 different alleles and the other genotypes.

Conclusion

Our findings illustrated that the pri‐miR‐182 rs4541843 G>A polymorphism is associated with the risk of MS in Isfahan population. However, additional large‐scale association studies in various ethnicities and more molecular studies are necessary to elaborate our findings.
Complete Charge Regulation by a Redox Enzyme Upon Single Electron Transfer
Authors: Zhang Ao Yun , Koone Jordan C. , Dashnaw Chad M. , Zahler Collin T. , Shaw Bryan F.
Published: March 2020

The degree by which metalloproteins partially regulate net charge (Z) upon electron transfer (ET) was recently measured for the first time using “protein charge ladders” of azurin, cytochrome c, and myoglobin [Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2018, 57(19), 5364–5368; Angew. Chem. 2018, 130, 5462–5466]. Here, we show that Cu, Zn superoxide dismutase (SOD1) is unique among proteins in its ability to resist changes in net charge upon single ET (e.g., ΔZET(SOD1)=0.05±0.08 per electron, compared to ΔZET(Cyt‐c)=1.19±0.02). This total regulation of net charge by SOD1 is attributed to the protonation of the bridging histidine upon copper reduction, yielding redox centers that are isoelectric at both copper oxidation states. Charge regulation by SOD1 would prevent long range coulombic perturbations to residue pKa’s upon ET at copper, allowing SOD1’s “electrostatic loop” to attract superoxide with equal affinity (at both redox states of copper) during diffusion‐limited reduction and oxidation of superoxide.
Selective Enzymatic Oxidation of Silanes to Silanols
Authors: Bähr Susanne , Brinkmann‐Chen Sabine , Garcia‐Borràs Marc , Roberts John M. , Katsoulis Dimitris E. , Houk K. N. , Arnold Frances H.
Published: March 2020

Compared to the biological world's rich chemistry for functionalizing carbon, enzymatic transformations of the heavier homologue silicon are rare. We report that a wild‐type cytochrome P450 monooxygenase (P450BM3 from Bacillus megaterium, CYP102A1) has promiscuous activity for oxidation of hydrosilanes to give silanols. Directed evolution was applied to enhance this non‐native activity and create a highly efficient catalyst for selective silane oxidation under mild conditions with oxygen as the terminal oxidant. The evolved enzyme leaves C−H bonds present in the silane substrates untouched, and this biotransformation does not lead to disiloxane formation, a common problem in silanol syntheses. Computational studies reveal that catalysis proceeds through hydrogen atom abstraction followed by radical rebound, as observed in the native C−H hydroxylation mechanism of the P450 enzyme. This enzymatic silane oxidation extends nature's impressive catalytic repertoire.
Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Highly Diastereo‐ and Enantioselective Cyclization–[4+3] Annulation Cascades between 2‐(1‐Alkynyl)‐2‐alken‐1‐ones and Anthranils
Authors: Kardile Rahul Dadabhau , Chao Tzu‐Hsuan , Cheng Mu‐Jeng , Liu Rai‐Shung
Published: March 2020

This work reports gold‐catalyzed [4+3]‐annulations of 2‐(1‐alkynyl)‐2‐alken‐1‐ones with anthranils to yield epoxybenzoazepine products with excellent exo‐diastereoselectivity (dr>25:1). The utility of this new gold catalysis is manifested by applicable substrates over a broad scope. More importantly, the enantioselective versions of these [4+3]‐cycloadditions have been developed satisfactorily with chiral gold catalysts under ambient conditions (DCM, 0 °C); the ee levels range from 88.0–99.9 %. With DFT calculations, we postulate a stepwise pathway to rationalize the preferable exo‐stereoselection.
Copper‐Catalyzed Regioselective Borocarbonylative Coupling of Unactivated Alkenes with Alkyl Halides: Synthesis of β‐Boryl Ketones
Authors: Wu Fu‐Peng , Yuan Yang , Schünemann Claas , Kamer Paul C. J. , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: March 2020

The borocarbonylative coupling of unactivated alkenes with alkyl halides remains a challenge. In this communication, a Cu‐catalyzed borocarbonylative coupling of unactivated alkenes with alkyl halides for the synthesis of β‐boryl ketones has been developed. A broad range of β‐boryl ketone derivatives was prepared in moderate to excellent yields with complete regioselectivity.
Effect of Roasting on Flaxseed Oil Quality and Stability
Authors: Waszkowiak Katarzyna , Siger Aleksander , Rudzińska Magdalena , Bamber Weronika
Published: March 2020

The food industry is interested in the application of roasted flaxseeds because the treatment improves their sensory acceptability. However, it also influences flaxseed oil nutritional quality and stability. The aim of the study was to analyze oxidation changes in situ and in flaxseed oil compounds (fatty acids, phytosterols, tocochromanols) and Maillard reaction products (MRP) after roasting. The effect of the roasting temperature (160–220 °C) and flaxseed cultivars (golden‐ and brown‐seed) was taken into consideration. The results showed that the selection of roasting temperature (<200 °C vs. ≥200 °C) and flaxseed cultivar significantly influenced the nutritional quality and oxidative stability of roasted flaxseed oils. The roasting of flaxseeds did not significantly affect the fatty acid profiles of oil but it influenced the content of the other bioactive compounds. As the roasting temperature increased (≥200 °C), the γ‐tocopherol degradation decreased, whereas the content of plastochromanol‐8 increased. The total content of phytosterols in the roasted seed samples was higher than in the raw seeds but there was no correlation between the phytosterol content and roasting temperature. The temperature ≥200 °C significantly accelerated in situ oil oxidation during roasting. On the other hand, these conditions favored the MRP formation, which may have slowed down the dynamics of oil oxidation during storage. There was lower oil oxidation in the brown‐seed cultivar; in consequence, the tocopherol retention was higher than in the golden‐seed cultivars. The results could be useful for the selection of the best cultivars and treatment conditions to decrease unfavorable changes in flaxseed oil nutritional quality and stability.
Effect of pore size of monofilament woven filter cloth as supporting material for dynamic membrane filtration on performance using aerobic membrane bioreactor technology
Authors: Mahat Siti BaizuraBinti , Omar Rozita , Lee Jing Ling , Mohd Idris Aida Isma , Che Man Hasfalina , Mustapa Kamal Siti Mazlina , Idris Azni
Published: March 2020

Dynamic membranes (DMs) defined as cake layer forms on a support material such as filter cloth have been of great interest in recent years. The usage of DMs can reduce the capital cost significantly and energy consumption during wastewater treatment by replacing the conventional membrane. The formation of an active dynamic cake layer is highly related to the retention of particles on the support material surface. In this study, different pore sizes of monofilament woven filter cloth made of polypropylene (PP; 20, 40, and 60 μm) were installed as a flat sheet in a DM bioreactor (DMBR) to treat high strength food wastewater [>1,000 mg/L chemical oxygen demand (COD)]. The wastewater treatment performances, namely COD, turbidity, total solid separation, and total ammonia nitrogen removal efficiencies, were assessed daily. The system achieved average COD removals higher than 80% and 70% for smaller pore size and larger pore size, respectively. Based on the results (duration of 4 days), the 20 μm pore size monofilament filter cloth was found most suitable for the cake layer development. The results also demonstrate that the biofilm composed of the cake layer of the DM on smaller pore size significantly concurs with the high treatment efficiency compared with the larger pore size.
Cryogenic mechanical properties and failure mechanism of epoxy nanocomposites modified by multiwalled carbon nanotubes with tunable oxygen‐containing groups on surface
Authors: Li Hong , Wang Kun , Chen Gong , Sun Lingyu , Yang Jiping
Published: March 2020

The surface chemistry and structure of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) plays an important role in MWCNT/epoxy nanocomposites. In this contribution, oxidized multiwalled carbon nanotube (OMCNT) with tunable oxygen‐containing groups is prepared by finely controlling oxidation time and centrifugal speeds. Effects of oxygen‐containing group content on mechanical properties of the OMCNT/E51 epoxy nanocomposites at 77 K are investigated in detail. It reveals that oxygen‐containing groups on the OMCNT surface contribute to significant increases in tensile strength and impact resistance of the OMCNT/E51 epoxy nanocomposites compared with those of the pristine MWCNT/E51 nanocomposites. A positive correlation between the oxygen‐containing group content and interfacial properties of OMCNT and epoxy matrix is demonstrated by thermogravimetric analysis and fracture morphology, and homogeneous dispersion of the OMCNT in epoxy matrix is obtained with the increase of oxygen‐containing groups on surface of the OMCNT. However, proper content of oxygen‐containing groups is essential to OMCNT/E51 nanocomposites because excessive oxidation tends to make sever structural defects on the OMCNT and has a side effect on cryogenic mechanical properties of OMCNT/E51 nanocomposites.
Controlled release of doxycycline within core/shell poly(ε‐caprolactone)/poly(ethylene oxide) fibers via coaxial electrospinning
Authors: Eskitoros‐Togay Ş. Melda , Bulbul Y. Emre , Dilsiz Nursel
Published: March 2020

The development of fibers with desired drug release properties has gained a high research interest for water‐soluble drugs with controlled drug delivery systems obtained by coaxial electrospinning technique. The objective of this study is to achieve the controlled‐release of doxycycline hyclate (DOXH) from the fabricated electrospun fibers. In this case, three different electrospun core/shell fibers have been successfully fabricated using this technique and the model drug, DOXH, has been entrapped in the core layers. The results of the structural properties and in vitro release studies have been compared with electrospun monostructural fibers fabricated by conventional electrospinning technique. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images have proved that the fabricated electrospun fibers have core/shell structures. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy has shown convenient interaction and compatibility between polymers and the model drug. X‐ray diffraction analysis has revealed that all the encapsulated DOXH are transferred into amorphous physical state and lost its crystalline state in the fibers. Moreover, drug release studies have demonstrated that the electrospun core/shell fibers show a better‐controlled release than the monostructural fibers. It can be concluded that the fibers obtained by blending hydrophilic and hydrophobic polymers such as poly(ε‐caprolactone) and poly(ethylene oxide) in both shell and core sides are promising candidate for controlled drug release.
Modern morphometrics and the study of population differences: Good data behind clever analyses and cool pictures?
Authors: Cardini Andrea
Published: March 2020

The study of phenotypic variation in time and space is central to evolutionary biology. Modern geometric morphometrics is the leading family of methods for the quantitative analysis of biological forms. This set of techniques relies heavily on technological innovation for data acquisition, often in the form of 2D or 3D digital images, and on powerful multivariate statistical tools for their analysis. However, neither the most sophisticated device for computerized imaging nor the best statistical test can produce accurate, robust and reproducible results, if it is not based on really good samples and an appropriate use of the ‘measurements’ extracted from the data. Using examples mostly from my own work on mammal craniofacial variation and museum specimens, I will show how easy it is to forget these most basic assumptions, while focusing heavily on analytical and visualization methods, and much less on the data that generate potentially powerful analyses and visually appealing diagrams.
2D Nb4N5 Nanosheets Synthesized by a Template Method
Authors: Su Yuyu , Wang Lifeng , Liu Dan , Zhang Liangzhu , Wang Jiemin , Chen Cheng , Yang Guoliang , Razal Joselito , Lei Weiwei
Published: March 2020

Niobium nitrides possess superconductivity and stable chemical stability, which render them desirable candidates for energy storage. Therefore, they deserve exploration for potential energy storage applications. Here we report on the synthesis of 2D Nb4N5 nanosheets by ammonization of NbS2 nanosheets as templates at 700 °C. The obtained 2D Nb4N5 nanosheets retain their hexagon shape and display a porous structure with a pore size of 3.716 nm. These 2D Nb4N5 nanosheets exhibit capacitor behavior as electrode materials for energy storage. This study opens a new avenue in synthesizing 2D materials based on 2D templates.
The compelling case for low‐violence‐risk preclusion in American prison policy
Authors: Reitz Kevin R.
Published: March 2020

This article recommends the development of broad policies of preclusion regarding the use of incarceration for offenders who are highly unlikely to commit a violent crime in the future. The proposal builds on the new Model Penal Code: Sentencing's provision on the limited utilitarian purposes of incarceration. Such low‐violence‐risk‐preclusion strategies (LVRPs) would stand on the most powerful predictive capabilities of today's risk assessment technology. If implemented properly, there is reason to believe that substantial drops in prison rates could be realized in most states. The preclusion groups would include defendants who should not be sent to prison or jail by sentencing judges even though the law allows for such penalties; those serving prison sentences who should be released by parole boards or other releasing authorities at the earliest opportunity; and probation and parole violators who should not be revoked to prison or jail. The strongest objection to the LVRP proposal is the fear of racial or other unacceptable biases in its apportionment of reduced‐incarceration benefits. Given current high levels of disproportionality in prison and jail populations, however, there is reason to think that the benefits of LVRP would be especially pronounced in disadvantaged communities.
A secured smart automation system for computer labs in engineering colleges using the internet of things
Authors: Basheer Shakila , AlLuhaidan Ala Saleh , Mathew Rincy Merlin
Published: March 2020

The Internet of Things (IoT) conceptualizes the objective of remotely connecting real objects with the Internet. In the case of a smart lab, this method can be incorporated to make the lab smarter and automated. This paper focuses on building a smart automated computer lab using the IoT that sends an alert email to users in case of an attack. The sensor‐based secured lab automation system is a technology system that connects most of the wireless systems and ensures monitoring of the lab. In the present age, the internet plays a major role in solving major issues of society; however, the problems in the existing system are cost and range. In this paper, a sensor‐based smart secured computer lab automation system using the IoT is presented. The system has the potential to solve security issues like fire detection, which is a security threat. This proposed model is more cost‐effective, has low power consumption, and is reliable compared to the existing systems.
Treatment patterns and outcomes in pancreatic cancer: Retrospective claims analysis
Authors: Doleh Yunes , Lal Lincy S. , Blauer‐Petersen Cori , Antico Giovanni , Pishvaian Michael
Published: March 2020

Background

Pancreatic cancer represents the third leading cause of US cancer deaths, with median survival <1 year. The goal of this study was to describe systemic treatments, healthcare utilization and costs, and overall survival among patients with unresectable/metastatic disease.

Methods

This study used healthcare claims for commercial and Medicare Advantage enrollees diagnosed with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (at index date) during January 01 2010 to 31 May 2017. Included patients were aged ≥18 years, with continuous 6‐month preindex enrollment. Patients were excluded by resectable disease, another primary cancer, or pregnancy. Cohorts were based on first‐line (LOT1) chemotherapy regimen.

Results

Overall, 12 978 patients (mean age 70 years, 51% male) were included, among which 5610 (43%) received chemotherapy. Of those, 23% received gemcitabine monotherapy, 22% gemcitabine‐nab paclitaxel, 22% FOLFIRINOX, 3% FOLFOX, and 29% received other regimens. Mean LOT1 duration was 112 days; 60% did not undergo subsequent lines of therapy. Moreover, 50% of patients had an emergency room visit and 45% were hospitalized during LOT1. Among treated and untreated patients, mean total 6‐month costs were $52 101. We found that patients receiving FOLFIRINOX had the highest costs, whereas those who received gemcitabine monotherapy had the lowest. Median overall survival (mOS) was 335 days with any first‐line treatment. FOLFIRINOX‐treated patients had the highest mOS (492 days), whereas gemcitabine monotherapy‐treated patients had the lowest (223 days).

Conclusions

A large proportion (57%) of patients with unresectable/metastatic pancreatic cancer did not receive chemotherapy. Healthcare costs were higher for fluorouracil‐based regimens, while lower for gemcitabine‐based regimens. Survival rates were within expectations for advanced pancreatic cancer.
New Indole Diketopiperazine Alkaloids from Soft Coral‐Associated Epiphytic Fungus Aspergillus sp. EGF 15‐0‐3
Authors: Wei Xia , Feng Chan , Wang Si‐Yu , Zhang Dong‐Mei , Li Xiao‐Hui , Zhang Cui‐Xian
Published: March 2020

Three new indole diketopiperazine alkaloids, 11‐methylneoechinulin E and variecolorin M, and (+)‐variecolorin G, along with 12 known analogs, were isolated from a soft coral‐associated epiphytic fungus Aspergillus sp. EGF 15‐0‐3. The structures of the new compounds were unambiguously established by extensive spectroscopic analyses including HR‐ESI‐MS, 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy and optical rotation measurements. The absolute configurations of (+)‐ and (−)‐variecolorin G were determined by experimental and quantum‐chemical ECD investigations and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Variecolorin G is a pair of enantiomeric mixtures with a ratio of 1 : 2. Moreover, (+)‐neoechinulin A is firstly reported as a natural product. The cytotoxic activities of all the isolated compounds against NCI‐H1975 gefitinib resistance (NCI‐H1975/GR) cell lines were preliminarily evaluated by MTT method.
Time‐Dependent Cytotoxic Properties of Terpyridine‐Based Copper Complexes
Authors: Grau Jordi , Caubet Amparo , Roubeau Olivier , Montpeyó David , Lorenzo Julia , Gamez Patrick
Published: March 2020

Five copper complexes supported by terpyridine ligands were prepared and characterized, viz. [Cu3Cl4(naphtpy)2][CuCl2] (1), [Cu2Cl2(naphtpy)2](ClO4)2 (2), [CuCl2(naphtpy)]2(MeOH)3(H2O) (3), [CuCl2(Cltpy)] (4) and [Cu(Cltpy)2](ClO4)2 (5); (where naphtpy stands for 4’‐((naphthalen‐2‐yl)methoxy)‐2,2′:6′,2′′‐terpyridine and Cltpy for 4′‐chloro‐2,2′:6′,2′′‐terpyridine). Their ability to interact with DNA was investigated, and their cytotoxic behaviour was examined with three cells lines, namely human ovarian carcinoma cells (A2780), their derived cisplatin‐resistant line (A2780cis), and human cervix adenocarcinoma cells (HeLa). All compounds show good cytotoxic properties (especially after 72 h of incubation). Remarkably, two compounds, 4 and 5, are still almost inactive after 24 h (particularly 4), but are highly active after 72 h, with IC50 values in the low‐micromolar to sub‐micromolar range. Compounds 1 and 2 induce necrosis, whereas late apoptosis is observed with 3–5, 4 exhibiting a behaviour close to that of cisplatin.
Spitz nevus with unusual dermoscopic figures in an adult female
Authors: Kawana Hironori , Fujita Hideki , Fujisawa Daisuke , Ishii Madoka , Murata Miwa , Kurumatani Ayano , Hayama Koremasa , Tanaka Masaru , Terui Tadashi
Published: March 2020

Spitz nevus is an important differential diagnosis of malignant melanoma, especially in young adults. This case provides a significant information about unusual dermoscopic features of adult Spitz nevus, which may reflect changes over the years.
Hydroboration of Alkenes Catalysed by a Nickel N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Complex: Reaction and Mechanistic Aspects
Authors: Ulm Franck , Cornaton Yann , Djukic Jean‐Pierre , Chetcuti Michael J. , Ritleng Vincent
Published: March 2020

The pentamethylcyclopentadienyl N‐heterocyclic carbene nickel complex [Ni(η5‐C5Me5)Cl(IMes)] (IMes=1,3‐dimesitylimidazol‐2‐ylidene) efficiently catalyses the anti‐Markovnikov hydroboration of alkenes with catecholborane in the presence of a catalytic amount of potassium tert‐butoxide, and joins the very exclusive club of nickel catalysts for this important transformation. Interestingly, the regioselectivity can be reversed in some cases by using pinacolborane instead of catecholborane. Mechanistic investigations involving control experiments, 1H and 11B NMR spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry, piezometric measurements and DFT calculations suggest an initial reduction of the NiII precursor to a NiI active species with the concomitant release of H2. The crucial role of the alkoxo‐catecholato‐borohydride species resulting from the reaction of potassium tert‐butoxide with catecholborane in the formation of an intermediate nickel‐hydride species that would then be reduced to the NiI active species, is highlighted.
Efficient Fused‐Ring Extension of A–D–A‐Type Non‐Fullerene Acceptors by a Symmetric Replicating Core Unit Strategy
Authors: Xia Tian , Li Chao , Ryu Hwa Sook , Guo Jing , Min Jie , Woo Han Young , Sun Yanming
Published: March 2020

The extension of fused aromatic ring core structures is beneficial for enhancing intramolecular charge transfer and effective π conjugation in A–D–A‐type (A=acceptor; D=donor) non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs). In this work, a novel strategy involving the extension of a fused‐ring core by symmetrically replicating the core unit has been developed, and a novel symmetric fused‐12‐ring NFA, LC81, has been synthesized. When paired with the wide‐bandgap polymer donor PBT1‐C, the corresponding organic solar cells (OSCs) showed a high power conversion efficiency of 12.71 %, much higher than that of the device based on the reference NFA, TPTT‐4F. Moreover, the LC81‐based OSC displayed a lower energy loss and a better ambient stability than the TPTT‐4F‐based device. Our results indicate that the extension of the fused‐ring core by the symmetric replicating core unit strategy is an effective approach to promoting the photovoltaic characteristics of A–D–A‐type NFAs.
Twist/untwist parameters are promising evaluators of myocardial mechanic changes in heart failure patients with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Zhang Yi , Li Shen‐Yi , Xie Juan‐Juan , Wu Yuan
Published: March 2020

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the twist/untwist parameters of the left ventricle (LV) in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) measured by ultrasonic two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) and to examine the correlations between twist parameters and serum N‐terminal pro b‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) as well as conventional two‐dimensional echocardiography (2DE) indexes.

Hypothesis

Changes in twist/untwist parameters can be used to evaluate LV function in HFpEF patients.

Methods

In 63 HFpEF patients and 40 healthy controls, we analyzed LV twist/untwist parameters by STE, cardiac function by 2DE, and serum NT‐proBNP by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The correlations between twist/untwist parameters and 2DE parameters and serum NT‐proBNP were examined by Pearson correlation analysis.

Results

Left ventricular end diastolic inner diameter and ejection fraction in HFpEF patients were within the normal range, whereas other 2DE parameters including left ventricular posterior wall end diastolic thickness, interventricular septal thickness, left atrial volume index, E, E/A, and E/e' differed significantly between HFpEF patients and control subjects. The twist/untwist parameters such as peak apical rotation (Par), peak untwisting velocity (PUWV), and isovolumic diastole untwisting percentage (Iutw%) were significantly decreased in HFpEF patients compared with control participants. Positive correlations between PUWV/Iutw% and E/A/E/e' and a significant negative correlation between PUWV/Iutw% and left atrial volume index (LAVI) were observed. The plasma NT‐proBNP concentration was positively correlated with LAVI, but negatively correlated with PUWV and Iutw%.

Conclusions

Changes in twist/untwist parameters correlate well with conventional 2DE parameters and plasma levels of NT‐proBNP, and can be used to evaluate LV function in HFpEF patients. Par is sensitive to the LV myocardial function damage.
A Facile Approach to Carbon Dots‐Mesoporous Silica Nanohybrids and Their Applications for Multicolor and Two‐Photon Imaging Guided Chemo‐/Photothermal Synergistic Oncotherapy
Authors: Sun Shan , Zhao Shuai , Jiang Kai , Wang Yuhui , Shu Qinghai , Jin Shaohua , Li Zhongjun , Lin Hengwei
Published: March 2020

Multifunctional nanocarrier‐based theranostics have been proposed to overcome some key problems in cancer treatments. In this contribution, a facile approach is reported to synthesize carbon dots‐mesoporous silica nanohybrids (named MSNs‐CDs) via a one‐pot microwave heating reaction of amino‐functionalized mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs‐NH2) and citric acid in formamide. The MSNs‐CDs nanohybrids exhibit capabilities of multicolor/two‐photon imaging, high photothermal conversion under NIR laser irradiation (671 nm), and anti‐cancer drug delivery, and thus could potentially be applied as a multifunctional nanocarrier‐based theranostic agent for cancer. Further studies revealed that CDs were in situ formed on the surface of MSNs during the reaction, which is amenable for the observed multicolor/two‐photon imaging and photothermal properties. Besides, the well‐preserved MSNs characters of MSNs‐CDs nanohybrids (e. g., mesoporous structure, large surface area and pore volume) enable them to be an ideal nanocarrier for delivering anti‐cancer drugs, such as doxorubicin (DOX). Importantly, the MSNs‐CDs@DOX exhibited pH‐ (lower pH being preferred) and thermo‐responsive DOX release behaviors, which would effectively decrease side effects and meanwhile enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy due to the weak acidic microenvironment of tumor and photothermal effect of the CDs. Finally, in vitro experiments exhibited that the highest therapeutic efficacy was obtained by MSNs‐CDs@DOX with NIR irradiation, attributing to the synergistic effect of chemotherapy and PTT. This study not only provides a facile method to prepare CDs and MSNs nanohybrids, but also demonstrates that both of the superior features and functions of CDs and MSNs could be preserved and combined, which are deemed to be beneficial for the development of multifunctional theranostic nanoplatform for cancers.
Thorough QTc Study of a Single Supratherapeutic Dose of Relebactam in Healthy Participants
Authors: Boundy Keith , Liu Yang , Bhagunde Pratik , O'Reilly Terry E. , Colon‐Gonzalez Francheska , Friedman Evan J. , Lala Mallika , Rhee Elizabeth G. , Rizk Matthew L.
Published: March 2020

The effects of supratherapeutic doses of intravenous (IV) relebactam on duration of ventricular depolarization and subsequent repolarization were assessed in a thorough QT/corrected QT study. This was a single‐dose, double‐blind (relebactam only), randomized, placebo‐ and positive‐controlled, 3‐period, balanced crossover study in healthy participants. Participants received in randomized order, and separated by a washout (≥4 days), a single dose of IV relebactam 1150 mg, oral moxifloxacin 400 mg (open‐label positive control), and IV placebo. Least squares mean and 2‐sided 90% confidence interval for change from baseline in population‐derived corrected QT intervals for relebactam, moxifloxacin, and placebo were estimated for 24 hours. The upper limit of the 90% confidence interval of all least squares mean population‐derived corrected QT treatment differences from placebo was not >10 milliseconds at any time point for 24 hours. Corrected QT assay sensitivity was confirmed with moxifloxacin treatment. Analysis of electrocardiogram parameters resulted in no additional cardiac safety concerns. Overall, a supratherapeutic dose of relebactam yielded no cardiac safety events; the 1150‐mg supratherapeutic dose (4.6‐fold above the 250‐mg therapeutic dose) was not associated with QT prolongation or other abnormal cardiodynamic parameters. This study lends additional support to relebactam's use as a β‐lactamase inhibitor in antimicrobial therapy.
CPU usage prediction for cloud resource provisioning based on deep belief network and particle swarm optimization
Authors: Wen Yiping , Wang Yuan , Liu Jianxun , Cao Buqing , Fu Qi
Published: March 2020

Resource usage prediction is increasingly important in cloud computing environments, and CPU usage prediction is especially helpful for improving the efficiency of resource provisioning and reducing energy consumption of cloud datacenters. However, accurate CPU usage prediction remains a challenge and few works have been done on predicting CPU usage of physical machines in cloud datacenters. In this article, we present a deep belief network (DBN) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) based CPU usage prediction algorithm, which is named DP‐CUPA and aimed to provide more accurate prediction results. The DP‐CUPA consists of three main steps. First, the historic data on CPU usage are preprocessed and normalized. Then, the autoregressive model and grey model are adopted as base prediction models and trained to provide extra input information for training DBN. Finally, the PSO is used to estimate DBN parameters and the DBN neural network is trained to predict CPU usage. The effectiveness of the DP‐CUPA is evaluated by extensive experiments with a real‐world dataset of Google cluster usage trace.
A classification method based on encoder‐decoder structure with paper content
Authors: Yin Yi , Ouyang Lin , Wu Zhixiang , Yin Shuifang
Published: March 2020

The paper classification method aims to correctly divide the paper data according to the similarity of its content. However, how to accurately classify according to the content expressed in the paper has always been a problem that various classification algorithms need to face. At present, there is a kind of paper classification method based on deep learning and implemented by the encoder‐decoder structure. This method inputs the words from a large number of papers into encoder, after calculating by NN (neural network) algorithm, the similarity degree of different papers is compared to achieve the purpose of classification. However, this type of method only considers the similarity between words, a NN algorithm can only calculate a large number of word information once, and it cannot find the regularity of classification through word information. But it has a difference with the similarity of the content. This paper starts from the perspective of considering the content, its label information is extracted, and the input vector of encoder‐decoder structure is formed with labels and words. This improves the original paper classification method based on encoder‐decoder structure. Firstly, the label information is based on the content, which can reflect the content of the paper. Secondly, the classification method which combines label information and word information can reflect the content of the paper comprehensively. Thirdly, the label information is independent of word information and NN algorithm is used separately to make this part of the content more consistent in the encoder‐decoder structure. Finally, the label information and the word information are combined, respectively, with the output values obtained by different NN algorithms to realize the classification of the content. This paper proves the effectiveness of the proposed method by evaluating the paper data in web of science and obtaining relevant experimental results.
A survey on evaluating and optimizing performance of Intel Xeon Phi
Authors: Mittal Sparsh
Published: March 2020

Intel's Xeon Phi combines the parallel processing power of a many‐core accelerator with the programming ease of CPUs. In this paper, we present a survey of works that study the architecture of Phi and use it as an accelerator for a broad range of applications. We review performance optimization strategies as well as the factors that bottleneck the performance of Phi. We also review works that perform comparison or collaborative execution of Phi with CPUs and GPUs. This paper will be useful for researchers and developers in the area of computer‐architecture and high‐performance computing.
Photoluminescent and Photoresponsive Iptycene‐Incorporated π‐Conjugated Systems: Fundamentals and Applications
Authors: Chiu Chun‐Wei , Yang Jye‐Shane
Published: March 2020

Iptycene is a class of 3D, rigid, and arene‐rich frameworks and has been incorporated into photoactive π‐systems for a variety of purposes, including tuning interchromophore interactions and thus the luminescence properties, creating active sites for excited‐state host–guest interactions, controlling the planarity of the π‐backbone for exciton delocalization activity, serving as a template for gating the charge/electron/energy‐transfer or intersystem crossing efficiency, generating structural chirality for chiroptical properties, and acting as a multiblade rotator in photoresponsive molecular devices. This Review outlines these concepts with examples reported over the past two decades.
Analytical Measurements to Elucidate Structural Behavior of 2,5‐Dimethoxy‐1,4‐benzoquinone During Charge and Discharge
Authors: Sano Hikaru , Takeichi Nobuhiko , Kato Minami , Shikano Masahiro , Kiyobayashi Tetsu , Matsumoto Hajime , Kuwabata Susumu , Yao Masaru
Published: March 2020

Organic compounds as electrode materials can contribute to sustainability because they are nontoxic and environmentally abundant. The working mechanism during charge–discharge for reported organic compounds as electrode materials is yet to be completely understood. In this study, the structural behavior of 2,5‐dimethoxy‐1,4‐benzoquinone (DMBQ) during charge—discharge is investigated by using NMR spectroscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, magnetic measurements, operando Raman spectroscopy, and operando X‐ray diffraction. For both lithium and sodium systems, DMBQ works as a cathode accompanied with the insertion and deinsertion of Li and Na ions during charge—discharge processes. The DMBQ sample is found to be in two‐phase coexistence state at the higher voltage plateau, and the radical monoanion and dianion phases have no long‐distance ordering. These structures reversibly change into the original neutral phase with long‐distance ordering. These techniques can show the charge–discharge mechanism and the factors that determine the deterioration of organic batteries, thus guiding the design of future high‐performance organic batteries.