bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A fast inverse treatment planning strategy facilitating optimized catheter selection in image‐guided high‐dose‐rate interstitial gynecologic brachytherapy
Authors: Guthier Christian V. , Damato Antonio L. , Hesser Juergen W. , Viswanathan Akila N. , Cormack Robert A.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Interstitial high‐dose rate (HDR) brachytherapy is an important therapeutic strategy for the treatment of locally advanced gynecologic (GYN) cancers. The outcome of this therapy is determined by the quality of dose distribution achieved. This paper focuses on a novel yet simple heuristic for catheter selection for GYN HDR brachytherapy and their comparison against state of the art optimization strategies. The proposed technique is intended to act as a decision‐supporting tool to select a favorable needle configuration.

Materials

The presented heuristic for catheter optimization is based on a shrinkage‐type algorithm (SACO). It is compared against state of the art planning in a retrospective study of 20 patients who previously received image‐guided interstitial HDR brachytherapy using a Syed Neblett template. From those plans, template orientation and position are estimated via a rigid registration of the template with the actual catheter trajectories. All potential straight trajectories intersecting the contoured clinical target volume (CTV) are considered for catheter optimization. Retrospectively generated plans and clinical plans are compared with respect to dosimetric performance and optimization time.

Results

All plans were generated with one single run of the optimizer lasting 0.6–97.4 s. Compared to manual optimization, SACO yields a statistically significant (P ≤ 0.05) improved target coverage while at the same time fulfilling all dosimetric constraints for organs at risk (OARs). Comparing inverse planning strategies, dosimetric evaluation for SACO and “hybrid inverse planning and optimization” (HIPO), as gold standard, shows no statistically significant difference (P > 0.05). However, SACO provides the potential to reduce the number of used catheters without compromising plan quality.

Conclusion

The proposed heuristic for needle selection provides fast catheter selection with optimization times suited for intraoperative treatment planning. Compared to manual optimization, the proposed methodology results in fewer catheters without a clinically significant loss in plan quality. The proposed approach can be used as a decision support tool that guides the user to find the ideal number and configuration of catheters.
“Metabolically Healthy” Obesity and Hyperuricemia Increase Risk for Hypertension and Diabetes: 5‐year Japanese Cohort Study
Authors: Kuwabara Masanari , Kuwabara Remi , Hisatome Ichiro , Niwa Koichiro , Roncal‐Jimenez Carlos A. , Bjornstad Petter , Andres‐Hernando Ana , Sato Yuka , Jensen Thomas , Garcia Gabriela , Ohno Minoru , Hill James O. , Lanaspa Miguel A. , Johnson Richard J.
Published: September 2017

Objective

Whether obesity without metabolic syndrome (i.e., “metabolically healthy” obesity) confers similar or less metabolic risk remains controversial.

Methods

A retrospective 5‐year cohort study of 9,721 Japanese subjects (48.5 ± 10.5 years, 4,160 men) was conducted in 2004 and reevaluated 5 years later. Subjects were excluded if they were hypertensive or diabetic or were receiving medications for dyslipidemia and/or gout or hyperuricemia in 2004. Study subjects were categorized according to baseline BMI  ≥ 25 kg/m2 (overweight/obesity) and < 25 kg/m2 (lean/normal weight) and also whether they had metabolic syndrome. The cumulative incidence of hypertension and diabetes over 5 years between groups was assessed. A second analysis evaluated whether baseline hyperuricemia provided additional risk.

Results

Subjects with overweight/obesity but without metabolic syndrome carried increased cumulative incidence of hypertension (14.6% vs. 7.2%, P < 0.001) and diabetes (2.6% vs. 1.1%, P = 0.004) over 5 years compared to lean/normal subjects without metabolic syndrome. Overweight/obesity conferred an increased risk for diabetes even in individuals with normal fasting blood glucose. Hyperuricemia became an independent risk factor for developing hypertension over 5 years in lean/normal subjects without metabolic syndrome. A 1 mg/dL increase in serum uric acid carried increased risk for hypertension (19%) and diabetes (27%).

Conclusions

Metabolically healthy obesity and hyperuricemia confer increased risk for hypertension and diabetes.
Patient–provider relationship and perceived provider weight bias among American Indians and Alaska Natives
Authors: Gonzales K. L. , Garcia G. E. , Jacob M. M. , Muller C. , Nelson L. , Manson S. M.
Published: September 2017

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine patient–provider relationships among American Indians and Alaska Native (AI/AN) patients by examining associations between patient activation, perceived provider weight bias and working alliance. Patient activation is generally defined as having the knowledge, skills and confidence to manage one's health.

Methods

Among a sample of 87 AI/AN adults presenting for general medical care at an urban clinic in the north‐west region of the USA, ordinary least squares regression analysis was completed to examine associations.

Results

Better working alliance scores were associated with increased patient activation, while perceived provider weight bias was associated with reduced patient activation. In addition, those with class II obesity had decreased patient activation.

Conclusion

These findings point to the importance of a positive patient–provider relationship in AI/ANs. Optimal patient engagement and subsequent health outcomes warrant additional consideration of patients' perceptions of provider weight bias within the context of health promotion and interventions.
Two dimensional long‐flexible fiber orientation simulation in squeeze flow
Authors: Meirson Gleb , Hrymak Andrew N.
Published: September 2017

Long‐flexible fiber orientation under the influence of a squeeze flow field is an important engineering problem. Fiber orientation models have been constructed for a short fiber in simple shear. This article uses the long fiber model previously proposed by the authors (Meirson and Hrymak, Polymer Composites, 37, 2425 (2015)). This new model accounts for flow velocity gradient along the fiber and allows the fiber to exhibit flexibility. In this study, this model is applied to solve a two‐dimensional squeeze flow case that approximates compression molding flow. It was found that unlike the simple shear flow case in the squeeze flow case the relative dimensions of the system has a great effect on fiber orientation. In addition, several rules of thumb for compression molding are proposed from the results. POLYM. COMPOS., 39:4656–4665, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Proteomic Response of Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells to Histamine Stimulation
Authors: Emirbayer Pelin Esma , Sinha Ankit , Ignatchenko Vladimir , Hoyer Stefanie , Dörrie Jan , Schaft Niels , Pischetsrieder Monika , Kislinger Thomas
Published: September 2017

The histamine receptors (HRs) represent a subclass of G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) and comprise four subtypes. Due to their numerous physiological and pathological effects, HRs are popular drug targets for the treatment of allergic reactions or the regulation of gastric acid secretion. Hence, an understanding of the functional selectivity of HR ligands has gained importance. These ligands can bind to specific GPCRs and selectively activate defined pathways. Supporting the activation of a therapeutically necessary pathway without the activation of other signaling cascades can result in drugs with more specific activity and fewer side effects. To evaluate the cellular consequences resulting from receptor binding, comprehensive analyses of cellular protein alterations upon incubation with ligands are required. For this purpose, endothelial cells are treated with histamine, as the endogenous ligand of HRs, to obtain a global overview of its cellular effects. Quantitative proteomics and pathway analyses of histamine‐treated and untreated cells reveal enrichment of the nuclear factor‐κB and tumor necrosis factor signaling pathways, cytokine‒cytokine receptor interactions, complement and coagulation cascades, and acute inflammatory processes upon histamine treatment. This strategy offers the opportunity to monitor HR‐mediated signaling in a multidimensional manner.
Spectral Libraries for SWATH‐MS Assays for Drosophila melanogaster and Solanum lycopersicum
Authors: Fabre Bertrand , Korona Dagmara , Mata Clara I. , Parsons Harriet T. , Deery Michael J. , Hertog Maarten L. A. T. M. , Nicolaï Bart M. , Russell Steven , Lilley Kathryn S.
Published: September 2017

Quantitative proteomics methods have emerged as powerful tools for measuring protein expression changes at the proteome level. Using MS‐based approaches, it is now possible to routinely quantify thousands of proteins. However, prefractionation of the samples at the protein or peptide level is usually necessary to go deep into the proteome, increasing both MS analysis time and technical variability. Recently, a new MS acquisition method named SWATH is introduced with the potential to provide good coverage of the proteome as well as a good measurement precision without prior sample fractionation. In contrast to shotgun‐based MS however, a library containing experimental acquired spectra is necessary for the bioinformatics analysis of SWATH data. In this study, spectral libraries for two widely used models are built to study crop ripening or animal embryogenesis, Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and Drosophila melanogaster, respectively. The spectral libraries comprise fragments for 5197 and 6040 proteins for S. lycopersicum and D. melanogaster, respectively, and allow reproducible quantification for thousands of peptides per MS analysis. The spectral libraries and all MS data are available in the MassIVE repository with the dataset identifiers MSV000081074 and MSV000081075 and the PRIDE repository with the dataset identifiers PXD006493 and PXD006495.
Mannose‐based graft polyesters with tunable binding affinity to concanavalin A
Authors: Xie Yixuan , Peng Chao , Gao Yunyi , Liu Xiaohong , Liu Tianbo , Joy Abraham
Published: September 2017

Glycopolymers have been widely used to understand the interactions between carbohydrates and lectins, which facilitate the diagnosis and detection of disease and pathogens as well as the development of vaccines. While studies have been focused on the correlation of glycopolymer structure and their binding to lectins, graft‐type glycopolyesters are uncommon. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of mannose‐based graft polyesters by “grafting‐from” method and investigate their interactions with Concanavalin A (Con A). As confirmed by 1H NMR spectroscopy and sulfuric acid‐UV method, graft polyesters with different lengths of mannose graft were successfully synthesized. Our results from turbidimetry binding assay showed that graft polyesters with longer mannose graft exhibit higher initial binding rate (ki). Isothermal titration calorimetry measurements of these graft polyesters with Con A showed that polymers exhibit higher binding affinity (ka) with the number of side chain mannose. This study provides understanding of the interaction between Con A and mannose‐based graft polyesters, which can be employed for the development of glycopolymeric therapeutics. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 3908–3917
Polymersomes as protocellular constructs
Authors: Mason Alexander F. , Thordarson Pall
Published: September 2017

Despite the rapidly growing amount of knowledge on the structure and function of cells, they remain a distant bottom‐up synthetic target due to their overwhelming complexity. A path to this goal is the development of protocellular systems that approximate one or more aspects of a natural cell. Polymer vesicles, or polymersomes, are an attractive scaffold for protocellular constructs, due to our ability to engineer the polymer membrane and generate a wide range of properties. This article summarizes the current state of polymersome science with respect to the properties and functions that lend these polymer‐based systems to applications in synthetic cell research. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2017, 55, 3817–3825
Antimicrobial efficacy of cold atmospheric plasma for different intrinsic and extrinsic parameters
Authors: Smet Cindy , Baka Maria , Dickenson Aaron , Walsh James L. , Valdramidis Vasilis P. , Van Impe Jan F.
Published: September 2017

Cold atmospheric plasma offers great potential for decontamination of heat‐sensitive foods. CAP research is often case specific, due to its focus on specific target microorganisms and food products. In this work, the impact of different factors influencing the CAP efficacy is assessed: CAP set‐up (DBD electrode, operating on He/O2), type of pathogen, model system properties, and experimental protocol. Controlled tests on model systems indicate that intrinsic and extrinsic stresses impact the CAP efficacy. Taking into account all influencing factors, this work provides guidelines (i.e., with respect to set‐up, microorganisms, food properties, and treatment protocol) that need to be included to ensure successful CAP treatment.
E‐ and H‐mode transition in a low pressure inductively coupled ammonia plasma
Authors: Draškovič‐Bračun Aljaž , Mozetič Miran , Zaplotnik Rok
Published: September 2017

Characteristics of ammonia plasma sustained by inductively coupled radiofrequency discharge has been studied in the range of powers between 50 and 1000 W and pressures between 10 and 90 Pa. In such an experimental setup pronounced differences between the E‐ and H‐mode were observed and explained to some details. Plasma was characterized by optical emission spectroscopy (OES) and residual gas spectrometry (RGA). The plasma luminosity changed for four orders of magnitude and the NH2 band vanished at higher powers (H‐mode). The RGA results indicated high density of NH2 radicals in the E‐mode while in the H‐mode the ammonia molecules almost entirely dissociated to H and N atoms. The N and H atoms created in the plasma recombined to the nitrogen and hydrogen molecules rather than to parent ammonia molecules on the way to the RGA.
AnchorQuery: Rapid online virtual screening for small‐molecule protein–protein interaction inhibitors
Authors: Koes David R. , Dömling Alexander , Camacho Carlos J.
Published: September 2017

AnchorQuery (http://anchorquery.csb.pitt.edu) is a web application for rational structure‐based design of protein–protein interaction (PPI) inhibitors. A specialized variant of pharmacophore search is used to rapidly screen libraries consisting of more than 31 million synthesizable compounds biased by design to preferentially target PPIs. Every library compound is accessible through one‐step multi‐component reaction (MCR) chemistry and contains an anchor motif that is bioisosteric to an amino acid residue. The inclusion of this anchor not only biases the compounds to interact with proteins, it also enables a rapid, sublinear time pharmacophore search algorithm. AnchorQuery provides all the tools necessary for users to perform online interactive virtual screens of millions of compounds, including pharmacophore elucidation and search, and enrichment analysis.

Accessibility: AnchorQuery is freely accessible at http://anchorquery.csb.pitt.edu.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation of Carbon Structures Inside Small Diameter Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: László István , Gyimesi Bálint , Koltai János , Kürti Jenő
Published: September 2017

Motivated by recent experimental results of hydrocarbon formation in small diameter carbon nanotubes filled with ferrocene molecules, we present molecular dynamics simulations with a DFT‐adjusted tight‐binding method. We increase the number of carbon atoms from 60 to 150 by inserting carbon pentagon rings into a (14,0) nanotube. We find that the structures formed during the simulation depend on the temperature as well as on the density of the carbon atoms. At lower temperatures we obtain graphene ribbons, and at higher temperatures fullerenes or nanotubes are formed. For large enough density of the carbon atoms, the formation of nanotube like structure is preferred at both low and high temperatures.
Electromagnetic Interaction Between Spherical Aerogels of Multi‐Walled Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Krasnikov Dmitry V. , Dorofeev Igor O. , Smirnova Tatyana E. , Suslyaev Valentin I. , Kazakova Mariya A. , Moseenkov Sergey I. , Kuznetsov Vladimir L.
Published: September 2017

Lightweight materials for efficient electromagnetic interference shielding over a wide range of frequency are of great interest. Aerogels of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) distributed in a dielectric matrix may interact effectively with electromagnetic radiation. Moreover, being arranged in specific patterns, they can also provide metamaterial characteristics (e.g., negative refractive index). In the present paper, we have studied the interaction between two spheres of the carbon nanotube aerogels in order to obtain a comprehensive basis for producing periodic 2D and 3D structures of such aerogel spheres in a dielectric matrix. We have extended the open resonator technique to the case of two units of MWCNT aerogels in order to reveal the interaction between them. The performance of the system depends on the orientation of the electric field to the axis of the aerogel cluster: MWCNT aerogel spheres (d = 4.5 mm) interact considerably at the gap between spheres ∼0.2λ (11.6 GHz) for perpendicular orientation, while, in case of axial orientation, the interaction is negligible even at the distances close to the contact between aerogels (∼0.02λ). Additionally, the cluster of two carbon nanotube aerogel spheres provides the polarizability close to that of copper spheres while having only 1% of their weight.
Bi‐Stability of Magnetic Skyrmions in Ultrathin Multilayer Nanodots Induced by Magnetostatic Interaction
Authors: Zelent M. , Tóbik J. , Krawczyk M. , Guslienko K. Y. , Mruczkiewicz M.
Published: September 2017

We report the results of simulations of magnetic skyrmion stability in ultrathin magnetic multilayer nanodots with interfacial Dzyaloshinskii–Moriya exchange interaction (DMI). We found that in presence of the lateral confinement the magnetostatic energy significantly influences the skyrmion stability and leads to stabilization of large‐radius skyrmion even at low values of the DMI strength, in addition to small‐radius skyrmion stabilized by DMI. In particular, stabilization of the skyrmion state with two different radii (bi‐stability) is found in dipolarly‐coupled (Pt/Co/Ir)n circular nanodots with the number of repeats of the unit cell n = 3 and 5. The bi‐stability range is located at the DMI strength of 0.9–1.1 mJ m−2 or at the total Co‐layer thickness of 2.2–2.6 nm.
An integrative modeling approach to mapping wetlands and riparian areas in a heterogeneous Rocky Mountain watershed
Authors: Chignell Stephen M. , Luizza Matthew W. , Skach Sky , Young Nicholas E. , Evangelista Paul H.
Published: September 2017

Accurate maps of wetlands and riparian areas are critical for targeting conservation and monitoring efforts. However, detailed inventories in mountain regions are largely non‐existent, as conventional mapping approaches are hindered by high costs, remoteness, and landscape variability. Contemporary modeling techniques can circumvent many of these issues, but are often difficult to interpret and tend to rely on specialized datasets that prevent their wider application. In this study, we used machine learning, Landsat 8 imagery and geomorphometric indices to map the distribution of wetlands and riparian areas in the Cache la Poudre River watershed, Colorado, USA. We used a presence‐background approach to develop and compare predictions from three popular algorithms: boosted regression trees, MaxEnt and random forests. In addition, we developed the models within three elevation‐based life zones to account for altitudinal changes in ecohydrology and land use. Our results showed strong predictive performance, with top‐performing models achieving area under the curve values as high as 0.98 and correctly classifying up to 95% of test data. Model performance varied by elevation zone, and no algorithm consistently outperformed the others. The boosted regression trees approach was uniquely able to differentiate wetlands from irrigated agriculture and residential areas in lower elevations. Multi‐seasonal greenness and wetness indices were highly influential predictors in all models, underscoring the importance of capturing local phenological characteristics and hydrological regimes. Dissection and roughness terrain metrics were key predictors for identifying valley bottom meadows and emergent wetlands in high‐elevation forests. We demonstrate how integrating ecological interpretation into the modeling workflow can inform conventional accuracy statistics and help bridge field‐based and remote sensing perspectives. We also show how continuous model outputs can facilitate this process by depicting nuances of the wetland‐upland continuum. Our approach requires only public data that are widely available, and can be easily adapted to other heterogeneous mountain settings.
Helical l–Leu‐Based Peptides Having Chiral Five‐Membered Carbocyclic Ring Amino Acids with an Ethylene Acetal Moiety
Authors: Koba Yurie , Ueda Atsushi , Oba Makoto , Doi Mitsunobu , Demizu Yosuke , Kurihara Masaaki , Tanaka Masakazu
Published: September 2017

l–Leu‐based heteropeptides having (R)‐ or (S)‐chiral five‐membered carbocyclic ring amino acids (Ac5c3EG) with an ethylene acetal moiety were prepared. A conformational analysis using FT‐IR absorption, 1H NMR, and circular dichroism (CD) spectra revealed that l–Leu‐based hexapeptides and nonapeptides having (R)‐ or (S)‐Ac5c3EG formed right‐handed (P) helical structures in solution. An X‐ray crystallographic analysis of nonapeptides 5 a and 5 b showed similar right‐handed (P) α‐helical structures, without an intramolecular hydrogen bond of the peptide N–H⋅⋅⋅–O– (acetal) type.
Mercuric Ion Sensing by an Overlapping β‐turn Containing Peptide
Authors: Tomar Kalpana , Soni Satyendra , Bhadauriya Pratibha , Parihar Rashmi , Ganesh Subramaniam , Nair Nisanth N. , Ramanathan Gurunath
Published: September 2017

A tetrapeptide containing dehydrophenylalanine residue exhibits unusual enhanced fluorescence emission intensity for Hg2+ ions selectively. In vivo studies on HeLa cells revealed that this peptide could be used to study Hg2+ trafficking in mammalian cells. The results demonstrate that Hg2+ can interact with sulfurless peptide backbones, if the latter provides the requisite geometry, especially a folded type III/III overlapping beta turn conformation.
Subcellular Optical pH Nanoscale Sensor
Authors: García‐Algar Manuel , Tsoutsi Dionysia , Sanles‐Sobrido Marcos , Cabot Andreu , Izquierdo‐Roca Victor , Gil Habil. Pilar Rivera
Published: September 2017

Coated gold nanoparticles bearing a pH‐sensitive molecule serve as nanoscale optical sensors for non‐invasive pH quantification of their endocytosis through surface‐enhanced Raman scattering. Our sensor consists in colloidal gold spheres coated either with (polyethylene glycol) PEG molecules or a silica shell. They carry a sensor molecule that specifically recognize protons. The read out for monitoring changes in the pH is the Raman shift of the sensor molecule that is enhanced on the surface of the plasmonic spheres. Sensing was performed along the way of internalization from the extracellular site through different endo/lysosomal compartments where they are closely packed. The creation of hot spots favored by particle agglomeration inside cells was responsible for the enhancement of changes in signal intensity and was dependent on the surface chemistry. We establish a correlation between the physicochemical properties of the nanoscale sensor (shape, surface chemistry) and its ability to monitor the different pH along its cellular internalization. The PEGylated spheres can sensitively track the pH along their cellular internalization whereas the silica coated ones fail.
A Venture Synthesis and Fabrication of BiVO4 as a Highly Stable Anode Material for Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Muruganantham Rasu , Liu Wei‐Ren
Published: September 2017

Needle‐like BiVO4 anode material for Na‐ion batteries was prepared by a simple solvothermal technique at 100 °C without further calcination. The BiVO4 electrode exhibited initial discharge (sodiation) capacity of 897 mAh /g with coulombic efficiency of 70.68% at 100 mA /g. The average coulombic efficiency was estimated at 93.07% and sodiation capacity predicted at 432 mAh/g upto 200 cycles. The average sodiation/desodiation capacity retention were found to be 52.07 and 68.10%, respectively for more than 100 cycles. The results demonstrate that needle‐like BiVO4 anode material offers an excellent electrochemical performance for large‐scale energy storage applications.
Role of Pyridinic Nitrogen on Base Catalyzed Knoevenagel Condensation over Pristine CNx
Authors: Goyal Reena , Sarkar Bipul , Sameer Siddharth , Singhal Nikita , Bordoloi Ankur
Published: September 2017

On a special focus, we have fabricated N2 doped mesoporous ordered CNx material using hexagonal SBA‐15 as hard template through polymerisation of hexamethylene tetramine precurssor. The synthesised materials exhibit a very high specific surface area 1332 cm3/g and pore volume 1.12 cc/g. The HR‐TEM shows the succesful replication of silica template i.e, tubular structure of material. The catlytic activity of material has been tested for Knoevenagel condensation reaction of benzaldehyde and ethyl cyanoacetate. Almost 93 % conversion of benzaldehyde has been achieved within 20 min of reaction at room temperature with ≥99.9 % product selectivity.
A DFT Study of the Conversion of Ptaquiloside, a Bracken Fern Carcinogen, to Pterosin B in Neutral and Acidic Aqueous Medium
Authors: Ríos‐Gutiérrez Mar , Domingo Luis R. , Alonso‐Amelot Miguel E.
Published: September 2017

The conversion of ptaquiloside (PtQ), a bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) carcinogen, to pterosin B (PtB), which is involved in the underlying mechanisms of PtQ genotoxicity and carcinogenicity, has been theoretically studied in aqueous neutral (AN) and acid (AA) media, using DFT methods at the PCM(water)‐B3LYP/6‐31G(d)//B3LYP/6‐31G(d) computational level. The β‐elimination of glucose in AN and four reactive channels (A‐D) defined by as many protonation sites in PtQ were calculated. Activation enthalpy decreases (from 42.0 to 12.6 kcal mol−1) in AA relative to AN suggesting protic catalysis. The most favoured channel A started with protonation of the tertiary O15 hydroxyl of PtQ and SN1 water release with strong stabilisation by the spirocyclopropane ring. Natural population analysis and electron localisation function analysis showed significant electron depopulation of vicinal C−C bonds and the remarkable leaving character of the quaternary carbon, which enhanced the nucleophilic attack of water on the distal methylenes while the glucose fragment was retained. This intermediate was unstable, degrading rapidly to a stable PtB‐glucose‐water‐H+ molecular complex whose calculated electronic spectrum (λmax=271.5 nm) matched the value of an intermediate reported earlier with a different structure. PtQ‐dienone, long assumed as the carcinogenic form of PtQ, is not formed in AA but only and unfavourably so in protonated form assisted by one molecule of water.
Versatility of Coordination Modes in Complexes of Monohydroxamic Acids with Half‐Sandwich Type Ruthenium, Rhodium, Osmium and Iridium Cations
Authors: Buglyó Péter , Parajdi‐Losonczi Péter L. , Bényei Attila C. , Lihi Norbert , Bíró Linda , Farkas Etelka
Published: September 2017

Complexation of the secondary N‐methyl‐acetohydroxamic acid (HMeaha) with [(η6‐p‐cym)Ru(H2O)3]2+, [(η5‐Cp*)Rh(H2O)3]2+, [(η6‐p‐cym)Os(H2O)3]2+ or [(η5‐Cp*)Ir(H2O)3]2+ cations and the primary acetohydroxamic acid (HAha) with the former two cations (first time in the literature) has been studied in aqueous solution using pH‐potentiometry, NMR, ESI‐MS and DFT calculations. Because the arene or arenyl ligands take three coordination sites of the metal ion, only three remain free for interaction with additional ligand(s). Meaha– forms five‐membered hydroxamate type chelated [ML]+ and [M(OH)L], being the third coordination site occupied by a water molecule in the former complex and by a hydroxide ion in the latter one. While [ML]+ remains predominant even under basic conditions in the Ru‐ and Rh‐containing systems, it is measurable only in slightly acidic region with the two 5d metal ions. Also the tendency for hydrolysis of the aqua ligand in [ML(H2O)]+ complexes follows the trend of the cations for hydrolysis, Os > Ir > Ru > Rh. The X‐ray result did not show any role of the H substituent of Aha– in [{(η5‐Cp*)Rh}2(μ2‐Aha)2]2+, in solution, however, its significant role was supported especially with Ru. All the results support the formation of a stable trinuclear [M3H–2L3(H2O)]+ species in which doubly deprotonated (hydroxymate type) ligands bridge two metal centres by coordinating via the two oxygens to the one cation and via the N‐donor to another one.
The sources of dynamism in dynamic capabilities
Authors: Salvato Carlo , Vassolo Roberto
Published: September 2017

Research Summary

We develop a multi‐level theory of dynamic capabilities (DCs) that explains resource dynamics by giving a central role to persons and interpersonal interactions rather than to abstract, firm‐level entities. Our theory integrates the contrasting approaches to DCs in individual‐, interpersonal‐, and organization‐level scholarship. Existing organization‐level approaches portray DCs as collective endeavors but do not specify how they emerge and operate within organizations, while micro‐foundational approaches illuminate actors’ contributions but reduce a firm's DCs to the cognitions and actions of a few top managers. Our integrated theory instead explains DCs as effortful social accomplishments emerging from individual employees’ capacity to leverage interpersonal relationships conducive to productive dialogue. The framework we propose offers new ground for understanding how DCs can be sources of sustainable competitive advantage.

Managerial Summary

How can firms navigate the transformations that relentlessly raise new threats and opportunities in dynamic environments? We suggest that firms develop dynamic capabilities to navigate change when their employees are connected through high‐quality relationships, empowering their innovative potential. Strategic adaptation is possible when people are given the opportunity to act, think, and feel creatively while performing tasks, thus envisioning opportunities to improve how the firm operates. This ability supports sustainable, firm‐level innovation when employees are connected through interpersonal relationships founded on constructive dialogue. Dialogue allows participants to advance and accept proposals for change even in the presence of conflicting interests and viewpoints. Managers may therefore enhance their firm's capacity for change by fostering individual integration and developing contexts that facilitate dialogue and constructive opposition.
Programmable Nucleic Acid Based Polygons with Controlled Neuroimmunomodulatory Properties for Predictive QSAR Modeling
Authors: Johnson Morgan Brittany , Halman Justin R. , Satterwhite Emily , Zakharov Alexey V. , Bui My N. , Benkato Kheiria , Goldsworthy Victoria , Kim Taejin , Hong Enping , Dobrovolskaia Marina A. , Khisamutdinov Emil F. , Marriott Ian , Afonin Kirill A.
Published: September 2017

In the past few years, the study of therapeutic RNA nanotechnology has expanded tremendously to encompass a large group of interdisciplinary sciences. It is now evident that rationally designed programmable RNA nanostructures offer unique advantages in addressing contemporary therapeutic challenges such as distinguishing target cell types and ameliorating disease. However, to maximize the therapeutic benefit of these nanostructures, it is essential to understand the immunostimulatory aptitude of such tools and identify potential complications. This paper presents a set of 16 nanoparticle platforms that are highly configurable. These novel nucleic acid based polygonal platforms are programmed for controllable self‐assembly from RNA and/or DNA strands via canonical Watson–Crick interactions. It is demonstrated that the immunostimulatory properties of these particular designs can be tuned to elicit the desired immune response or lack thereof. To advance the current understanding of the nanoparticle properties that contribute to the observed immunomodulatory activity and establish corresponding designing principles, quantitative structure–activity relationship modeling is conducted. The results demonstrate that molecular weight, together with melting temperature and half‐life, strongly predicts the observed immunomodulatory activity. This framework provides the fundamental guidelines necessary for the development of a new library of nanoparticles with predictable immunomodulatory activity.
S‐Doped TiSe2 Nanoplates/Fe3O4 Nanoparticles Heterostructure
Authors: Yang Jun , Zhang Yufei , Zhang Yizhou , Shao Jinjun , Geng Hongbo , Zhang Yu , Zheng Yun , Ulaganathan Mani , Dai Zhengfei , Li Bing , Zong Yun , Dong Xiaochen , Yan Qingyu , Huang Wei
Published: September 2017

2D Sulfur‐doped TiSe2/Fe3O4 (named as S‐TiSe2/Fe3O4) heterostructures are synthesized successfully based on a facile oil phase process. The Fe3O4 nanoparticles, with an average size of 8 nm, grow uniformly on the surface of S‐doped TiSe2 (named as S‐TiSe2) nanoplates (300 nm in diameter and 15 nm in thickness). These heterostructures combine the advantages of both S‐TiSe2 with good electrical conductivity and Fe3O4 with high theoretical Li storage capacity. As demonstrated potential applications for energy storage, the S‐TiSe2/Fe3O4 heterostructures possess high reversible capacities (707.4 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 during the 100th cycle), excellent cycling stability (432.3 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 5 A g−1), and good rate capability (e.g., 301.7 mAh g−1 at 20 A g−1) in lithium‐ion batteries. As for sodium‐ion batteries, the S‐TiSe2/Fe3O4 heterostructures also maintain reversible capacities of 402.3 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 after 100 cycles, and a high rate capacity of 203.3 mAh g−1 at 4 A g−1.
Designed Microdevices for In Vitro Diagnostics
Authors: Sun Xuming , Wan Jing jing , Qian Kun
Published: September 2017

In vitro diagnostics (IVD) refers to in vitro tests of biological specimens and contributes to two‐thirds of clinical diagnosis. There are two major components to consider for the construction of devices for IVD, including: i) capture and recognition; and ii) detection methods. Herein, the principle, design, and application of microdevices regarding these two routes in recent progress for IVD are shown. Microarrays, microfluidics, and nanodevices are reviewed for capture and recognition. Mass spectrometry, fluorescence, electrochemistry, and so on are summarized as detection methods. The roles of materials in devices toward diverse applications are elucidated with the aims of designing materials for high‐performance device toward precision medicine and initiating the development of advanced diagnostic tools involving various biomarkers.
Progress in the Development of Sodium‐Ion Solid Electrolytes
Authors: Kim Jung‐Joon , Yoon Kyungho , Park Inchul , Kang Kisuk
Published: September 2017

The development of safe, reliable, yet economical energy storage has been reemphasized with recent incidents involving the explosion and subsequent recall of lithium‐ion batteries. The organic liquid electrolyte used in the conventional lithium‐ion battery can potentially act as a fuel for combustion in a thermal‐runaway reaction, and hence an alternative with a significantly reduced flammability must be sought. All‐solid‐state batteries have the potential to meet safety and reliability requirements with the possibility of increasing the volumetric energy density of the system, making these a promising candidate for the development of the next generation of energy storage. Moreover, the sodium‐ion battery exhibits a better cost‐efficiency without significantly compromising the energy density, making the combination of the sodium chemistry with the solid electrolyte an attractive choice for safe and economical energy storage. Here, a general background on the recent development of ceramic and glass‐ceramic sodium‐ion‐conducting electrolytes is provided with regard to oxide‐, sulfide‐, and hydride‐based electrolytes. The ionic conductivity, chemical stability, and mechanical properties of the sodium‐based solid electrolyte are discussed, which is followed by a perspective on future developments in the field.
Factors influencing the growth of SMEs: The case of Ghana
Authors: Thompson Agyapong Guy , Mmieh Frederick , Mordi Chima
Published: September 2017

This study examines the factors that affect the growth of small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in the context of Ghana, using entrepreneurs (or owner/managers) of SMEs as the unit of analysis. The data draws on in‐depth fieldwork undertaken for a period of three months involving 75 owner‐managers that were drawn from the three main sectors of the economy: agriculture, manufacturing, and services. Thematic technique was employed to analyze audiotaped interview transcripts. Findings show that several factors, including level of education, poor energy supply, access to external finance, competition, inflation and government policies influence the growth of SMEs in Ghana. The study recommends that sustained energy supply, review of lending and borrowing regulations, favorable fiscal policies, measures to combat unhealthy competition, provision of adequate training centers to equip entrepreneurs, and regulation on land acquisition should be government's priority to ensure consistent growth of SMEs in Ghana.
Epilogue: Beyond 1992
Authors: Gunneriusson Håkan
Published: September 2017

The empirical example was to show just the initial years of the war, but a few things can be said of the last years of the war, without being conclusive on the matter. As war went on the violence escalated and the escalation gave way for even more violence. The logic of practice continued to change as the structuring field continued to be restructured. Without going into details it is worth mentioning that Milošević, who already had lost Serbian support, lost even more as he tried to balance between the international and national arenas at the same time. At the same time less international prolific actors could go full out on the national arena in support of Serbian interest.
Carcinoma in the Remnant Stomach During Long‐Term Follow‐up After Distal Gastrectomy for Gastric Cancer: Analysis of Cumulative Incidence and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Hanyu Takaaki , Wakai Atsuhiro , Ishikawa Takashi , Ichikawa Hiroshi , Kameyama Hitoshi , Wakai Toshifumi
Published: September 2017

Background

The number of patients with remnant gastric cancer following resection of gastric cancer may increase. The aims of this study were to investigate the development of remnant gastric cancer after distal gastrectomy for gastric cancer and to examine its cumulative incidence, clinicopathological characteristics, and risk factors.

Methods

We examined 437 patients with relapse‐free survival for 5 years or more after distal gastrectomy with Billroth I reconstruction for gastric cancer performed between 1985 and 2005.

Results

A total of 17 patients suffered from remnant gastric cancer. The cumulative incidence was 3.7% at 10 years and 5.4% at 20 years. The median time until development of remnant gastric cancer was 79 months (range 30–209 months). The presence of synchronous multiple gastric cancers was a significant independent risk factor for remnant gastric cancer (hazard ratio 4.036; 95% confidence interval 1.478–11.02; P = 0.006). Of the 17 patients, the 13 whose remnant gastric cancer was detected via regular endoscopy showed better prognoses than the patients detected by other means (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The cumulative incidence of remnant gastric cancer was 5.4% at 20 years. In particular, patients who had multiple gastric cancers at initial gastrectomy were at higher risk for remnant gastric cancer. Therefore, long‐term endoscopic surveillance is important.
Impact of Splenic Volume and Splenectomy on Prognosis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Within Milan Criteria After Curative Hepatectomy
Authors: Takeishi Kazuki , Kawanaka Hirofumi , Itoh Shinji , Harimoto Norifumi , Ikegami Toru , Yoshizumi Tomoharu , Shirabe Ken , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: September 2017

Background

The prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with portal hypertension (PH) is very poor. Splenomegaly is considered important evidence of PH. Our aim was to clarify the prognostic value of splenic volume (SV) and the effect of splenectomy on the prognosis of HCC within the Milan criteria after curative hepatectomy.

Methods

In this single‐center retrospective study, we reviewed 160 patients with HCC that met the Milan criteria, including 138 who had undergone hepatectomy and 22 who had undergone hepatectomy and splenectomy between July 2004 and December 2010. SV was measured by three‐dimensional computed tomography and patients allocated to three groups (high SV ≥300 mL; low <300 mL; and splenectomy) to compare post‐hepatectomy survival rates.

Results

Multivariate analyses showed that SV is an independent prognostic factor for overall and disease‐free survival. The overall survival rates at 5 years in the high SV, low SV, and splenectomy groups were 39, 75, and 88%, respectively. The overall survival rate in the high SV group was significantly worse than in the low SV and splenectomy groups (P < 0.001). There was no significant difference between the low SV and splenectomy groups (P = 0.831).

Conclusions

High SV is an independent predictor of post‐hepatectomy HCC recurrence and overall survival. There is no significant difference in prognosis between low SV and splenectomy groups, even though the latter had high SV. Combined splenectomy with hepatectomy for HCC and PH may improve prognosis and be an appropriate alternative when liver transplantation cannot be performed.
Optimization of an Aqueous Extraction Process for Pomegranate Seed Oil
Authors: Ghorbanzadeh Ramin , Rezaei Karamatollah
Published: September 2017

Response surface methodology employing a five‐level, four‐variable central composite rotatable design was applied to study the effects of extraction time, extraction temperature, pH and water/solid ratio on the extraction yield of pomegranate seed oil using an aqueous extraction approach. In addition, quality indices, fatty acid composition and antioxidant activity of the obtained oil were studied and compared with those of typical hexane‐, cold press‐ and hot press‐extracted oil. Aqueous extraction resulted in the maximum oil recovery of 19.3% (w/w), obtained under the following critical values: water/solid ratio (2.2:1.0, mL/g), pH 5.0, extraction temperature = 63 °C and extraction time = 375 min. This yield is lower than that obtained via hexane extraction (26.8%, w/w) and higher than the yields from cold press (7.0%, w/w) and hot press (8.6%, w/w) extraction. A comparison of the characteristics of the oils based on extraction method revealed that the unsaturated fatty acid content was highest for the oil obtained by aqueous extraction. In addition, higher levels of iodine and peroxide and lower levels of acid, p‐anisidine and unsaponifiable matter were observed. The oil obtained with aqueous extraction also exhibited higher antioxidant activity than oils obtained by hexane or hot press extraction.
Archaeological Aerial Thermography in Theory and Practice
Authors: Casana Jesse , Wiewel Adam , Cool Autumn , Hill Austin Chad , Fisher Kevin D. , Laugier Elise J.
Published: September 2017

While a long history of experimental data shows that aerial thermal images can reveal a wide range of both surface and subsurface archaeological features, technological hurdles have largely prevented more widespread use of this promising prospecting method. However, recent advances in the sophistication of thermal cameras, the reliability of commercial drones, and the growing power of photogrammetric software packages are revolutionizing archaeologists' ability to collect, process, and analyze aerial thermal imagery. This paper provides an overview of the theory behind aerial thermography in archaeology, as well as a discussion of an emerging set of methods developed by the authors for undertaking successful surveys. Summarizing investigations at archaeological sites in North America, the Mediterranean, and the Near East, our results illustrate some contexts in which aerial thermography is very effective, as well as cases in which ground cover, soil composition, or the depth and character of archaeological features present challenges. In addition, we highlight novel approaches for filtering out noise caused by vegetation, as well as methods for improving feature visibility using radiometric thermal imagery.
Intentional overdose of the novel anti-epileptic drug eslicarbazepine presenting with recurrent seizures and ventricular dysrhythmias
Authors: Thompson Jesse , Powell James D. , Ovakim Daniel H.
Published: September 2017

Eslicarbazepine is a novel anti-epileptic agent indicated for the treatment of partial-onset seizures. We present the case of an 18 year old female that presented to the Emergency Department four hours after a reported intentional ingestion of an estimated 5600 mg of eslicarbazepine. Although initially hemodynamically stable and neurologically normal, shortly after arrival she developed confusion, rigidity and clonus, followed by recurrent seizures, hypoxemia and cardiac arrest which responded to cardiopulmonary resuscitation and wide complex tachycardia requiring defibrillation. Treatment for refractory seizures included benzodiazepines and eventual intubation and sedation with propofol. Cardiac toxicity responded to sodium bicarbonate. In addition, empiric hemodialysis was performed. In this case report, we discuss the successful management of the first reported overdose of eslicarbazepine using supportive care and hemodialysis.
The Forgotten Need of Disaster Relief
Authors: Tamariz Leonardo , Cely Cynthia , Palacio Ana
Published: September 2017

Disasters in countries with limited resources can put the emergency preparedness of the country to the test. The first major task after a disaster is to take care of the wounded. In countries where the epidemiological transition has occurred, chronic disease can place a major strain on public health preparedness after a disaster. The purpose of this field report is to alert public health practitioners of an infrequently reported public health problem: the impact of natural disasters on adherence to chronic medications. In our experience, the most common complaint in the weeks that followed the 2016 earthquake was not having access to their chronic medications. (Disaster Med Public Health Preparedness. 2018; 12: 291–295)
TILTEPEC YELLOW-WARE CERAMICS FROM CERRO JAZMÍN, OAXACA: A CONTRIBUTION TO THE CERAMIC CHRONOLOGY OF THE MIXTECA ALTA
Authors: Rodríguez Verónica Pérez , Tuñón Antonio Martínez , Minc Leah , Stiver Walsh Laura , Rosales Mariana Navarro
Published: September 2017

We present new data on a class of ceramics called Tiltepec yellow wares, dated to the Late and Terminal Formative period occupations at Cerro Jazmín, Oaxaca (300 BC– AD 300). Evidence from 27 radiocarbon-dated ceramic assemblages indicates that Tiltepec yellow wares are a distinct ceramic type. Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA) results further confirm the wares’ identification. Defining Tiltepec yellow wares as a type apart from Classic-period orange ceramics allows the reassessment of the regional settlement sequence, previously understood to indicate widespread settlement abandonment in the Terminal Formative period. The new data suggest that Cerro Jazmín had a more continuous urban occupation than previously thought.