bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing cultural, racial and ethnic discrepancies in guideline discordant gestational weight gain: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Denize Kathryn M. , Acharya Nina , Prince Stephanie A. , da Silva Danilo Fernandes , Harvey Alysha L.J. , Ferraro Zachary M. , Adamo Kristi B.
Published: August 2018

Objective

To systematically review the literature and describe the discrepancies in achieving the 2009 Institute of Medicine (IOM) gestational weight gain (GWG) guidelines across cultures.

Methods

Ten databases were searched from inception to April 2018. Observational cohort studies were included that examined adult women; reported on a measure of culture; compared cultural groups, and reported on GWG. Articles werebroken down into papers that used the current 2009 IOM GWG guidelines and those that used others. A meta-analysis was conducted for studies using the 2009 guidelines examining the prevalence of discordant GWG across cultural groups.

Results

The review included 86 studies. Overall, 69% of women experienced discordant GWG irrespective of culture. White women experienced excessive GWG most often, and significantly more than Asian and Hispanic women; Black women had a higher prevalence of excessive GWG than Hispanic and Asian women; however, this difference was not significant.

Conclusions

The majority of women experience excessive GWG, with White women experiencing this most often. Culturally diverse GWG guidelines are needed to individualize antenatal care and promote optimal maternal-fetal health outcomes across cultural groups.
Contour‐based lung dose prediction for breast proton therapy
Authors: Zeng Chuan , Sine Kevin , Mah Dennis
Published: August 2018

Purpose

This study evaluates the feasibility of lung dose prediction based on target contour and patient anatomy for breast patients treated with proton therapy.

Methods

Fifty‐two randomly selected patients were included in the cohort, who were treated to 50.4–66.4 Gy(RBE) to the left (36), right (15), or bilateral (1) breast with uniform scanning (32) or pencil beam scanning (20). Anterior‐oblique beams were used for each patient. The prescription doses were all scaled to 50.4 Gy(RBE) for the current analysis. Isotropic expansions of the planning target volume of various margins m were retrospectively generated and compared with isodose volumes in the ipsilateral lung. The fractional volume V of each expansion contour within the ipsilateral lung was compared with dose–volume data of clinical plans to establish the relationship between the margin m and dose D for the ipsilateral lung such that VD = V(m). This relationship enables prediction of dose–volume VD from V(m), which could be derived from contours before any plan is generated, providing a goal of plan quality. Lung V20 Gy(RBE) and V5 Gy(RBE) were considered for this pilot study, while the results could be generalized to other dose levels and/or other organs.

Results

The actual V20 Gy(RBE) ranged from 6% to 23%. No statistically significant difference in V20 Gy(RBE) was found between breast irradiation and chest wall irradiation (P = 0.8) or between left‐side and right‐side treatment (P = 0.9). It was found that V(1.1 cm) predicted V20 Gy(RBE) to within 5% root‐mean‐square deviation (RMSD) and V(2.2 cm) predicted V5 Gy(RBE) to within 6% RMSD.

Conclusion

A contour‐based model was established to predict dose to ipsilateral lung in breast treatment. Clinically relevant accuracy was demonstrated. This model facilitates dose prediction before treatment planning. It could serve as a guide toward realistic clinical goals in the planning stage.
Efficient and Stable Nonfullerene‐Graded Heterojunction Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells with Inorganic Ga2O3 Tunneling Protective Nanolayer
Authors: Ma Junjie , Zheng Meijuan , Chen Cong , Zhu Ziqiang , Zheng Xiaolu , Chen Zhiliang , Guo Yaxiong , Liu Chang , Yan Yanfa , Fang Guojia
Published: August 2018

Inverted planar perovskite solar cells (PSCs) exhibit advantages in terms of simple device fabrication, good reproducibility, and less hysteresis. However, there still remain challenges to passivate the trap states within the perovskite film and reduce interface instability arising from penetration of moisture and the diffusion of metal electrode. In this work, perovskite passivation is reported using gradiently distributed nonfullerene electron‐rich Lewis bases small molecule IDIC (a π‐conjugated Lewis base: indacenodithiophene end‐capped with 1.1‐dicyanomethylene‐3‐indanone), which is realized through an antisolvent dropping process. Additionally, an inorganic wide band gap Ga2O3 is introduced as a tunneling nanolayer into interface between the metal electrode and electron transport layer that effectively passivate interface and mitigate moisture and metal ion diffusion. These treatments enable the fabrication of CH3NH3PbI3‐based inverted PSCs with excellent power conversion efficiencies up to 19.86% as well as enhanced ambient stability. This work provides new strategies to improve the performance and stability for the inverted PSCs.
Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells Fabricated Through CsCl‐Enhanced PbI2 Precursor via Sequential Deposition
Authors: Li Qi , Zhao Yicheng , Fu Rui , Zhou Wenke , Zhao Yao , Liu Xin , Yu Dapeng , Zhao Qing
Published: August 2018

The fabrication of high‐quality perovskite film highly relies on chemical composition and the synthesis method of perovskite. So far, sequentially deposited MA0.03FA0.97Pb(I0.97Br0.03)3 polycrystalline film is adopted to produce high‐performance perovskite solar cells with record power conversion efficiency (PCE). Fewer grain boundaries and incorporation of inorganic cation (e.g., cesium) would further increase device performance via sequential deposition. Here, cesium chloride (CsCl) is introduced into lead iodide (PbI2) precursor solution that beneficially modulates the property of PbI2 film, leading to larger grains with cesium incorporation in the resulting perovskite film. The enlarged crystal grains originate from a slower nucleation process for CsCl‐containing PbI2 film when reacting with formamidine iodide, confirmed by in situ confocal photoluminescence imaging. Photovoltaic devices based on CsCl‐containing PbI2 film demonstrate a higher averaging efficiency of 21.3% than 20.3% of the devices without CsCl additives for reverse scan. More importantly, the device stability is improved by CsCl additives that retain over 90% of their initial PCE value after 4000 min tracking at maximum power point under 1‐sun illumination. This work paves a way to further improve the photovoltaic performance of mixed‐cation‐halide perovskite solar cells via a sequential deposition method.
Exposing {010} Active Facets by Multiple‐Layer Oriented Stacking Nanosheets for High‐Performance Capacitive Sodium‐Ion Oxide Cathode
Authors: Xiao Yao , Wang Peng‐Fei , Yin Ya‐Xia , Zhu Yan‐Fang , Niu Yu‐Bin , Zhang Xu‐Dong , Zhang Jienan , Yu Xiqian , Guo Xiao‐Dong , Zhong Ben‐He , Guo Yu‐Guo
Published: August 2018

As one of the most promising cathodes for rechargeable sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), O3‐type layered transition metal oxides commonly suffer from inevitably complicated phase transitions and sluggish kinetics. Here, a Na[Li0.05Ni0.3Mn0.5Cu0.1Mg0.05]O2 cathode material with the exposed {010} active facets by multiple‐layer oriented stacking nanosheets is presented. Owing to reasonable geometrical structure design and chemical substitution, the electrode delivers outstanding rate performance (71.8 mAh g−1 and 16.9 kW kg−1 at 50C), remarkable cycling stability (91.9% capacity retention after 600 cycles at 5C), and excellent compatibility with hard carbon anode. Based on the combined analyses of cyclic voltammograms, ex situ X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, and operando X‐ray diffraction, the reaction mechanisms behind the superior electrochemical performance are clearly articulated. Surprisingly, Ni2+/Ni3+ and Cu2+/Cu3+ redox couples are simultaneously involved in the charge compensation with a highly reversible O3–P3 phase transition during charge/discharge process and the Na+ storage is governed by a capacitive mechanism via quantitative kinetics analysis. This optimal bifunctional regulation strategy may offer new insights into the rational design of high‐performance cathode materials for SIBs.
Quadruple Junction Polymer Solar Cells with Four Complementary Absorber Layers
Authors: Di Carlo Rasi Dario , Hendriks Koen H. , Wienk Martijn M. , Janssen René A. J.
Published: August 2018

A monolithic two‐terminal solution‐processed quadruple junction polymer solar cell in an n–i–p (inverted) configuration with four complementary polymer:fullerene active bulk‐heterojunction layers is presented. The subcells possess different optical bandgaps ranging from 1.90 to 1.13 eV. Optical modeling using the transfer matrix formalism enables prediction of the fraction of absorbed photons from sunlight in each subcell and determine the optimal combination of layer thicknesses. The quadruple junction cell features an open‐circuit voltage of 2.45 V and has a power conversion efficiency of 7.6%, only slightly less than the modeled value of 8.2%. The external quantum efficiency spectrum, determined with appropriate light and voltage bias conditions, exhibits in general an excellent agreement with modeled spectrum. The device performance is presently limited by bimolecular recombination, which prevents using thick photoactive layers that could absorb light more efficiently.
Glycan Therapeutics: Resurrecting an Almost Pharma‐Forgotten Drug Class
Authors: Paderi John , Prestwich Glenn D. , Panitch Alyssa , Boone Tom , Stuart Kate
Published: August 2018

Despite their enormous potential, glycans as therapeutics yet remain a widely untapped drug class. This overview shares the viewpoint that glycans have been aptly termed the “dark matter” of biology and have thus been largely ignored for decades. Provided herein is a background on the multiple structures and functions of glycan therapeutics, and focuses on examples and case studies of the glycan therapeutics in clinical use or in a clinical development. Perspectives on various hurdles are also provided, such as regulatory or scientific messaging and how these can influence the clinical development of this drug category. Finally some of the necessary changes in perception, education, and research infrastructure for continued support and advancement of this promising category of therapeutics are described.
Light‐Insensitive Organic Field‐Effect Transistors with n‐Type Conjugated Polymers Containing Dinitrothiophene Units
Authors: Moon Yejin , Lee Chulyeon , Kim Hwajeong , Kim Youngkyoo
Published: August 2018

Here, it is reported that organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) with n‐type conjugated polymer, poly[{2,5‐bis‐(2‐octhyldodecyl)‐3,6‐bis‐(thien‐2‐yl)‐pyrrolo[3,4‐c]pyrrole‐1,4‐diyl}‐co‐{2,2′‐(3,4‐dinitrothiophene)]‐5,5′‐diyl}] (PODTPPD‐DNT), can be operated without large disturbance by surrounding light. The PODTPPD‐DNT polymer synthesized via the Stille coupling reaction could act as a channel layer for n‐channel OFETs. Although the PODTPPD‐DNT polymer shows a broad optical absorption from ultraviolet to near‐infrared parts up to 1000 nm, the OFETs with the PODTPPD‐DNT channel layers do not almost respond to monochromatic (520 and 780 nm) and white light. The reason is assigned to the exciton quenching effect by two nitro groups in the polymer chain. The semitransparent OFETs with the 20 nm thick PODTPPD‐DNT channel layers are also almost light‐insensitive for operation under typical room light conditions.
Gas‐assisted low‐field magnetic separation for large scale continuous magnetic bio‐separation process
Authors: Li Wensong , Yang Liangrong , Dong Tingting , Xing Huifang , Wang Weiyan , Yang Yunquan , Liu Huizhou
Published: August 2018

In this study, the gas‐assisted low‐field magnetic separation (GAMS) was proposed for continuous large‐scale magnetic bio‐separation process. Magnetic recovery processes in selective separation of binary mixed proteins by magnetic microspheres were selected as a model. Basing on magnetic recovery efficiency of the batch GAMS for this model, the continuous GAMS with an amplifying small pilot scale was further researched. The continuous throughput of GAMS for adsorption, washing, and desorption step reached 12 L/h, 12 L/h, and 18 L/h with an adsorbent recovery above 95%, respectively. Furthermore, magnetic particles via the top magnetic roller could be well‐separated from free proteins with good floatability via the bottom outlet of flotation column, and bubbling operation did not cause the significant denaturation of target protein. Compared with classic high gradient magnetic separation, GAMS had the advantages of easy scale‐up, easy continuous operation, and low‐cost, showing great potential for large‐scale magnetic bio‐separation process. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 65: 175–183, 2019
Enzyme–Polymer Conjugates as Robust Pickering Interfacial Biocatalysts for Efficient Biotransformations and One‐Pot Cascade Reactions
Authors: Sun Zhiyong , Glebe Ulrich , Charan Himanshu , Böker Alexander , Wu Changzhu
Published: August 2018

Despite the rapid development of Pickering interfacial catalysis (PIC) at liquid–liquid interfaces with chemocatalysts, the use of unstable biocatalysts at emulsion interfaces remains a technical challenge. Herein, we present a Pickering interfacial biocatalysis (PIB) platform based on robust and recyclable enzyme–polymer conjugates that act as both catalytic sites and stabilizers at the interface of Pickering emulsions. The conjugates were prepared by growing poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) on a fragile enzyme, benzaldehyde lyase, under physiological conditions. The mild in situ conjugation process preserved the enzyme structure, and the conjugates were used to emulsify a water–organic two‐phase system into a stable Pickering emulsion, leading to a significantly larger interfacial area and a 270‐fold improvement in catalytic performance as compared to the unemulsified two‐phase system. The PIB system could be reused multiple times. Conjugates of other enzymes were also fabricated and applied for cascade reactions.
A Single Route to Mammalian N‐Glycans Substituted with Core Fucose and Bisecting GlcNAc
Authors: Luber Thomas , Niemietz Mathäus , Karagiannis Theodoros , Mönnich Manuel , Ott Dimitri , Perkams Lukas , Walcher Janika , Berger Lukas , Pischl Matthias , Weishaupt Markus , Eller Steffen , Hoffman Joanna , Unverzagt Carlo
Published: August 2018

The occurrence of α1,6‐linked core fucose on the N‐glycans of mammalian glycoproteins is involved in tumor progression and reduces the bioactivity of antibodies in antibody‐dependent cell‐mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC). Since core‐fucosylated N‐glycans are difficult to isolate from natural sources, only chemical or enzymatic synthesis can provide the desired compounds for biological studies. A general drawback of chemical α‐fucosylation is that the chemical assembly of α1,6‐linked fucosides is not stereospecific. A robust and general method for the α‐selective fucosylation of acceptors with primary hydroxy groups in α/β ratios exceeding 99:1 was developed. The high selectivities result from the interplay of an optimized protecting group pattern of the fucosyl donors in combination with the activation principle and the reaction conditions. Selective deprotection yielded versatile azides of all mammalian complex‐type core‐fucosylated N‐glycans with 2‐4 antennae and optional bisecting GlcNAc.
Synthesis of 1,3‐Amino Alcohols by Hydroxy‐Directed Aziridination and Aziridine Hydrosilylation
Authors: Zhang Yong‐Qiang , Bohle Fabian , Bleith Robin , Schnakenburg Gregor , Grimme Stefan , Gansäuer Andreas
Published: August 2018

We describe an approach to N‐tosyl 1,3‐amino alcohols that consists of a diastereoselective aziridination reaction of acyclic allylic alcohols and an unprecedented regioselective hydrosilylation of α‐hydroxy aziridines. The products contain up to three contiguous stereocenters. Computational studies outline key aspects of the aziridination mechanism, which is different and more intricate than anticipated.
Expanding the Genetic Code to Study Protein–Protein Interactions
Authors: Nguyen Tuan‐Anh , Cigler Marko , Lang Kathrin
Published: August 2018

Protein–protein interactions are central to many biological processes. A considerable challenge consists however in understanding and deciphering when and how proteins interact, and this can be particularly difficult when interactions are weak and transient. The site‐specific incorporation of unnatural amino acids (UAAs) that crosslink with nearby molecules in response to light provides a powerful tool for mapping transient protein–protein interactions and for defining the structure and topology of protein complexes both in vitro and in vivo. Complementary strategies consist in site‐specific incorporation of UAAs bearing electrophilic moieties that react with natural nucleophilic amino acids in a proximity‐dependent manner, thereby chemically stabilizing low‐affinity interactions and providing additional constraints on distances and geometries in protein complexes. Herein, we review how UAAs bearing fine‐tuned chemical moieties that react with proteins in their vicinity can be utilized to map, study, and characterize weak and transient protein–protein interactions in living systems.
Pyrene‐Containing Twistarene: Twelve Benzene Rings Fused in a Row
Authors: Chen Wangqiao , Li Xinxiong , Long Guankui , Li Yongxin , Ganguly Rakesh , Zhang Mingtao , Aratani Naoki , Yamada Hiroko , Liu Ming , Zhang Qichun
Published: August 2018

Success in obtaining higher‐order twistarenes with precise structures is very important for fundamentally understanding the relationship between the structures and physical properties/optoelectronic applications. In this research, by using the advantages from a retro‐Diels–Alder process (clean reaction) and the cross‐conjugated nature of the pyrene unit, a novel dodeca‐twistarene was prepared for the first time. Its structure, confirmed by single‐crystal XRD analysis, indicates that it possesses a twisted angle (≈30°), and two neighboring molecules in the crystal lattice are perpendicular to each other because of the twisted character and the strong intermolecular CH–π interactions. However, its basic physicochemical properties suggest its instability in air derives from its elevated HOMO energy level, although NICS calculations confirm that the pyrene units contribution poorly to the π conjugation of the overall molecule.
Dual functional novel catalytic Cu1−xZrxFe2O4 (x=0, 0.5, 1) nanoparticles for synthesis of polysubstituted pyridines and sunlight‐driven degradation of methylene blue
Authors: Singh Harminder , Rajput Jaspreet Kaur , Govil Garima , Arora Priya , Badhan Jigyasa
Published: August 2018

The effect of varied zirconium content on the structural, morphological, magnetic, optical, thermal and catalytic properties of nanoparticles of the ferrite Cu1 − xZrxFe2O4 (x = 0, 0.5, 1) was investigated. The mixed ferrite was synthesized by the auto‐combustion method using nitrates of respective metals and citric acid as a chelating agent. The as‐prepared nanoparticles showed dual benefits. They were employed as a heterogeneous catalyst for one‐pot synthesis of polysubstituted pyridine derivatives as well as for catalytic degradation of industrial waste dyes such as methylene blue (MB). The highlight of the research reported is the catalytic degradation of industrial waste (MB) with high efficiency in eluent of a wide range of pH (3–13). The proposed nanoparticles arguably offer certain great advantages that include: low cost, facile nature, anti‐leaching property, magnetic recoverability and recyclability. The characterization of the as‐synthesized nanoparticles was done using various techniques. The leaching study was carried out using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. The formation of organic products was confirmed using Fourier transform infrared and 1H NMR spectroscopies and examination of degradation products of MB dye was carried out using mass spectrometry and UV–visible spectroscopy.
Stepwise post‐modification immobilization of palladium Schiff‐base complex on to the OMS‐Cu (BDC) metal–organic framework for Mizoroki‐Heck cross‐coupling reaction
Authors: Alamgholiloo Hassan , Rostamnia Sadegh , Hassankhani Asadollah , Khalafy Jabbar , Baradarani Mehdi M. , Mahmoudi Ghodrat , Liu Xiao
Published: August 2018

Palladium ions were successfully immobilized within the pores of open metal site (OMS) metal organic frameworks (MOFs) with Schiff‐base (2‐Py‐SI) grafted in OMS‐Cu (BDC) using the hydrothermal method. This Schiff‐base complex on the Cu (BDC) greatly increased catalytic activity and acted as an efficient stabilizer of Pd ions. The hydrothermal method was a more efficient method for generating small metal ions in the MOF structures. The results revealed that the PdII@Cu (BDC)/2‐Py‐SI is a promising catalyst for the Mizoroki‐Heck coupling reaction. The proposed catalyst has better recyclability and can be reused several times without apparent loss of activity.
Enhanced positive temperature coefficient in amorphous PS/CSPE‐MWCNT composites with low percolation threshold
Authors: Lai Fang , Wang Bin‐Bin , Zhang Peng
Published: August 2018

In this work, amorphous polystyrene/chlorosulfonated polyethylene composites doped with multiwalled carbon nanotubes (PS/CSPE‐MWCNT) were constructed by in situ polymerization to form semi‐interpenetrating networks. The MWCNTs showed excellent dispersion and selective location in the PS regions. High electrical conductivity and low percolation threshold (0.89 wt %) for the composites were achieved. An enhanced positive temperature coefficient (PTC) behavior for amorphous PS/CSPE‐MWCNT composites was first reported, nearly without a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) effect when the conductive fillers were beyond the percolation threshold, similar to those of crystalline polymer composites. Moreover, a PTC intensity of more than five orders of magnitude and excellent repeatability of the PTC effect were achieved. This study offers new insight into the development of novel PTC materials with low percolation threshold. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47053.
Histone Lysine and Genomic Targets of Histone Acetyltransferases in Mammals
Authors: Voss Anne K. , Thomas Tim
Published: August 2018

Histone acetylation has been recognized as an important post‐translational modification of core nucleosomal histones that changes access to the chromatin to allow gene transcription, DNA replication, and repair. Histone acetyltransferases were initially identified as co‐activators that link DNA‐binding transcription factors to the general transcriptional machinery. Over the years, more chromatin‐binding modes have been discovered suggesting direct interaction of histone acetyltransferases and their protein complex partners with histone proteins. While much progress has been made in characterizing histone acetyltransferase complexes biochemically, cell‐free activity assay results are often at odds with in‐cell histone acetyltransferase activities. In‐cell studies suggest specific histone lysine targets, but broad recruitment modes, apparently not relying on specific DNA sequences, but on chromatin of a specific functional state. Here we review the evidence for general versus specific roles of individual nuclear lysine acetyltransferases in light of in vivo and in vitro data in the mammalian system.
Surface‐directed Heterogeneous 1D Assembly of Multifunctional Nanoparticles
Authors: Fang Qiling , Son Sang Jun
Published: August 2018

Multifunctionality is one of essential elements which enables nanomaterials to be used in the field of nanobiomedical applications. Since simple integration of differently functioning nanoparticles (NPs) in a confined space could lead to malfunction or interference between the NPs, a method that can spatially isolate the NPs and can be applied to a wide range of NPs is highly required. In this work, we developed an efficient method that can be used to stack SNTs with various NPs for the preparation of multifunctional nanotube, which is involved with hydrophobic interaction between NPs and the inside of SNTs. In addition, we successfully demonstrated that barcode nanotube coded by different colored quantum dots and multifunctional SNT with magnetic, fluorescent, and potent SERS‐active properties can be fabricated using the stacking method.
The mechanism of the preventive effect of Shen’an capsule on the calcium oxalate crystal‐induced early renal injury based on metabolomics
Authors: Fan Wei , Hou Jiebin , Zhu Weiye , Zhang Shuyue , Shao Keda , Quan Feiyu , Chen Wei
Published: August 2018

Kidney stone disease is a worldwide metabolism‐associated disorder with a high incidence of renal dysfunction. However, effective methods to prevent crystalline nephropathy are still lacking owing to the absence of aetiological research. Shen’an (SA) capsules are prepared from Chinese medicinal compounds and are considered a promising treatment for the prevention of crystal‐induced renal injury. In this study, 24 mice were randomly divided into four groups: saline, oxalate, SA‐treated (via preventive administration) and SA‐only groups. A metabolomics analysis based on ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UPLC‐Q‐TOF/MS) was performed to explore the plasma metabolic profiles among the different groups. The amount of crystal deposition and the decline in kidney function were significantly alleviated by the use of SA capsule. A total of 24 metabolites that showed a reversal trend following SA capsule administration were identified as plasma biomarkerss of the preventive effects of SA capsules on crystal‐induced renal injury. Most of these metabolites were involved in the metabolisms of lipid metabolism, energy metabolism, glutathione metabolism and vitamin metabolism. In conclusion, SA capsules exert a preventive effect in mice with crystal‐induced kidney injury via the regulation of multiple metabolic pathways.
Radiological characteristics and predisposing factors of venous tumor thrombus in pelvic osteosarcoma: A mono‐institutional retrospective study of 115 cases
Authors: Liang Haijie , Guo Wei , Yang Rongli , Tang Xiaodong , Yan Taiqiang , Ji Tao , Yang Yi , Li Dasen , Xie Lu , Xu Jie
Published: August 2018

Background

Venous tumor thrombus (VTT) in pelvic osteosarcoma has been regarded as a rare oncological condition and few literatures investigated this issue.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 115 cases of pelvic osteosarcoma treated in our center from 2006 to 2016. Diagnosis of VTTs was made based on histo‐pathological findings. We summarized the radiological manifestations of VTTs on CT, MRI, and PET/CT. We also compared the demographical, oncological, and radiological data between cases with or without VTTs to identify its predisposing factors.

Results

Seventeen cases (14.8%) were diagnosed with VTT. Manifestations of VTTs on CT included increased caliber (64.7%), calcification (47.1%), low density on plain scan (100%), filling defect (100%), and streak‐like enhancement (35.7%) on contrast enhancement. On MRI, the VTTs could be hypo‐ or iso‐intense on T1WI (100%), hyperintense on T2WI (100%), and filling defect on contrast enhancement (100%). PET/CT showed high metabolic activity of the VTTs. The ranges of the VTTs included unilateral external iliac vein (EIV) (two cases), unilateral internal iliac vein (IIV) (one case), unilateral common iliac vein (CIV) and IIV (five cases), unilateral CIV + EIV (two cases), inferior vena cava (IVC) and unilateral CIV + EIV (one case), IVC and unilateral CIV + IIV (four cases), IVC and bilateral CIVs + IIVs (two cases). Multivariate analysis indicated that chondroblastic subtype and involvement of L5/S1 intervertebral foramen might predispose to VTTs.

Conclusion

The incidence of VTTs in pelvic osteosarcoma was 14.8%. Comprehensive radiological studies help preoperative diagnosis of VTTs. Predisposing factors included chondroblasic subtype and involvement of L5/S1 intervertebral foramen.
Sulfated Iron Oxide‐Catalyzed Esterification of Acetic Acid with n‐Butanol by Reactive Distillation
Authors: Kaur Jaspreet , Kaur Kamalpreet , Toor Amrit Pal
Published: August 2018

The potential applicability of reactive distillation was investigated in the esterification of acetic acid with n‐butanol catalyzed by sulfated iron oxide at a stoichiometric molar ratio. Low‐cost, easily available, and reusable uncoated clay beads were used as column packing. Higher acid conversion in a shorter reaction time was achieved in the reactive distillation process in comparison to the batch process. The effects of reaction temperature, catalyst loading, packing material, and packing height on acid conversion were investigated. The Eley‐Rideal model was found to be appropriate to elaborate the reaction kinetics and resulted in a lower activation energy for the reactive distillation process compared with the batch process.
Removal of NO from Flue Gas by a Heterogeneous Fenton‐Like Process
Authors: Zhao Yi , Han Yuhong , Zhao Zheng
Published: August 2018

An iron‐containing polyoxometalates (POMs) complex (FeIIIAspPW) was synthesized from ferric chloride, aspartic acid, and phosphotungstic acid for developing a novel method based on a Fenton‐like process using Fe‐containing POMs as heterogeneous catalyst to remove NO from flue gas. The effects of various experimental parameters on NO removal efficiency were evaluated in a self‐made bubbling reactor. Under optimized conditions, an average removal efficiency of > 90 % was obtained. The dominant reactive species generated in the system was suggested to be •OH by adding the •OH quenching agent of tert‐butanol and the main reaction product was identified as nitrate. A possible catalytic mechanism was proposed on the basis of experimental results and references. The catalysis might result from the redox cycles of ≡FeIII↔≡FeII and ≡POM↔≡POM− on the surface of FeIIIAspPW, and the high catalytic activity of FeIIIAspPW might be attributed to the chemisorption of H2O2 on its surface by hydrogen bonding.
Methodological Evaluation of Storage Systems for Flexible Power Generation from Solid Biomass
Authors: Stark Matthias , Trinkl Christoph , Zörner Wilfried , Greenough Rick
Published: August 2018

The increasing number of fluctuating renewable power producers in the electricity grid leads to several challenges in the grid's infrastructure and its operation. Biomass combustion plants, however, can be modified to increase the flexibility of power production by integrating steam storage devices. In this paper, the available storage systems are evaluated, considering the boundaries of the plants and the requirements of power grids and markets. An objective result is generated by conducting a Delphi study using energy experts. The utility‐value‐analysis method is used to identify the most promising storage concept. Using this methodology, the resulting storage concept is found to be a combination of a steam accumulator and a solid storage.
Reactive Zinc Extraction with D2EHPA in a Kühni Miniplant Column
Authors: Korb Christian , Keller Alexander , Bart Hans-Jörg
Published: August 2018

Reactive extraction of Zn2+ with di‐(2‐ethylhexyl) phosphoric acid (D2EHPA) was examined in a multistage countercurrent extraction column of type Kühni. Hydrodynamics and mass transfer for the reactive European Federation of Chemical Engineering (EFCE) test system were comprehensively experimentally investigated in a DN32 Kühni miniplant column. The experiments demonstrate that the column hydrodynamics and mass transfer performance markedly depend on throughputs, phase ratio, energy input as well as on the component concentrations. Using a simple equilibrium stage model, it was found that two to four stages per meter can be reached in the miniplant extractor. The system physical properties (density, viscosity, interfacial tension) of the reactive test system change rapidly due to mass transfer, which is considered by appropriate correlations.
Single‐Step Anodization for the Formation of WO3‐Doped TiO2 Nanotubes Toward Enhanced Electrochromic Performance
Authors: Yoo Hyeonseok , Oh Kiseok , Nah Yoon‐Chae , Choi Jinsub , Lee Kiyoung
Published: August 2018

Herein, we report a single‐step anodization process for WO3‐doped TiO2 nanotubes in an aqueous electrolyte containing the tungsten precursor Na2WO4 ⋅ 2H2O and fluoride ions. The single‐step anodization allows for homogeneous doping of WO3 into the TiO2 nanotube structures. The doping concentration depends on the concentration of the tungsten precursor in the electrolyte, demonstrating that the reported anodizing process is the most efficient approach for metal oxide doping in TiO2. Moreover, compared to bare TiO2, the WO3‐doped TiO2 nanotubes shows better proton intercalation, which leads to enhanced electrochromic performance.
SVM for FT‐MIR prostate cancer classification: An alternative to the traditional methods
Authors: Siqueira Laurinda F.S. , Morais Camilo L.M. , Araújo Júnior Raimundo F. , de Araújo Aurigena Antunes , Lima Kássio M.G.
Published: August 2018

In this paper, principal component analysis (PCA), successive projections algorithm (SPA), and genetic algorithm (GA) followed by support vector machines (SVM), combined with Fourier‐transform mid‐infrared (FT‐MIR) spectroscopy were presented as complementary or alternatives tools to the traditional methods for prostate cancer screening and classification. These approaches were applied to analyze tissue samples, and their performances were compared within dependent SVM models and with traditional methods of diagnosis, according to class separation interpretability, time consumption, and figures of merit. The results showed that variable reduction and selection methods followed by SVM can reduce drawbacks of independent SVM analysis. The potential biomarkers indicated by PCA‐SVM, SPA‐SVM, and GA‐SVM were amide I, II, and III; as well as protein regions (1400‐1585 cm−1), followed by DNA/RNA (O—P—O symmetric stretch) (1080 cm−1) and DNA (O—P—O asymmetric stretch) (1230 cm−1) regions. GA‐SVM was the best classification approach, with higher sensitivity (100%) and specificity (80%), particularly in early stages, being better than traditional methods of diagnosis.
Distinct Effects of O‐GlcNAcylation and Phosphorylation of a Tau‐Derived Amyloid Peptide on Aggregation of the Native Peptide
Authors: Frenkel‐Pinter Moran , Richman Michal , Belostozky Anna , Abu‐Mokh Amjaad , Gazit Ehud , Rahimipour Shai , Segal Daniel
Published: August 2018

Protein phosphorylation and O‐GlcNAcylation are very common nucleoplasmic post‐translational modifications. Mono‐addition of either the phosphate or the O‐GlcNAc group were shown to inhibit the self‐aggregation of amyloidogenic proteins and peptides, which is the hallmark of various protein misfolding diseases. However, their comparable effect upon co‐incubation with a native non‐modified amyloid scaffold has not been reported. O‐linked glycans and phosphate variants of the tau protein‐derived VQIVYK hexapeptide motif were generated as a simplified amyloid scaffold model and demonstrate that, while self‐aggregation can be attenuated by either a single glycan or a phosphate unit, only co‐incubation with the O‐GlcNAc variant inhibits aggregation of the native peptide. These results shed light on the role of post‐translational modifications in protein aggregation and suggest a novel therapeutic approach to protein misfolding diseases.
Indenoquinaldine‐Based Unsymmetrical Squaraine Dyes for Near‐Infrared Absorption: Investigating the Steric and Electronic Effects in Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Bisht Rajesh , Mele Kavungathodi Munavvar Fairoos , Nithyanandhan Jayaraj
Published: August 2018

A series of near‐infrared (NIR)‐responsive unsymmetrical squaraine dyes (ISQ1–3) incorporating a fused indenoquinaldine‐based donor have been designed and synthesized. C12 alkyl chains were incorporated at the sp3‐hybridized carbon center of the indene unit of the indenoquinaldine in an out‐of‐plane orientation to control dye aggregation on the surface of titanium dioxide, and indole (ISQ1), benzo[e]indole (ISQ2), and quinoline (ISQ3) moieties were included as the donor component bearing the anchoring carboxy group to extend the absorption in the NIR region and to systematically study the effect of the electronic modification on the performance of dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSC). All the dyes exhibit intense absorption (ϵ≥105 m−1 cm−1) in the NIR region, and the dye‐adsorbed TiO2 films exhibit broad panchromatic absorption. The incident photon‐to‐current efficiency (IPCE) spectrum of the ISQ3‐based DSSC device displays a panchromatic IPCE response up to 880 nm. Additionally, the ISQ3‐sensitized device provides the best efficiency of 4.15 % with a short circuit current density (JSC) of 10.02 mA cm−2, open‐circuit voltage (VOC) of 0.58 V, and fill factor (ff) of 72 % in the presence of 10 equivalents of 3α,7α‐dihydroxy‐5β‐cholanic acid (CDCA). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis showed attenuated charge recombination in the ISQ3‐sensitized DSSC, which contributes to its higher value of VOC compared with the other dyes.
High‐Yield Generation of Triplet Excited States by an Efficient Sequential Photoinduced Process from Energy Transfer to Singlet Fission in Pentacene‐Modified CdSe/ZnS Quantum Dots
Authors: Sakai Hayato , Inaya Ryutaro , Tkachenko Nikolai V. , Hasobe Taku
Published: August 2018

Singlet fission (SF) is expected to improve photoenergy conversion systems by generating two electrons from one photon. Pentacenes meet the energy‐level matching condition between a singlet and two triplet states: [E(S1)≥2E(T1)]. However, the molar absorption coefficients of pentacenes in the approximately 400–500 nm region are limited, whereas quantum dots, such as CdSe/ZnS (QD), possess high fluorescence quantum yields and particle‐size‐dependent fluorescence wavelengths. Thus, a combination of QD (D) and pentacene (A) provides a system of both an enhanced light‐harvesting efficiency throughout the solar spectrum and an efficient conversion of the harvested light into the triplet states by SF. Based on these points, m‐phenylene‐bridged triisopropylsilane (TIPS)‐pentacene dimer‐functionalized QD (denoted as m‐(Pc)2‐QD) was synthesized to examine the sequential photoinduced process from energy transfer to SF. In femtosecond transient absorption measurements, initial energy transfer from QD to pentacene (quantum yield: 87 %) and subsequent SF were efficiently observed. The quantum yield of triplet states of pentacene units (ΦΤ) based on the excitation of QD attained is 160±6.7 %.
HN2O2− as a Ligand in Mononuclear Hydrogenhyponitrite‐κ2‐N,O Ruthenium Complexes with Bisphosphane Co‐Ligands
Authors: Beck Daniel , Klüfers Peter
Published: August 2018

The hyponitrite anion is a tentative intermediate in the reduction of nitric oxide (NO) to nitrous oxide (N2O) catalyzed by nitric‐oxide reductase (NOR) in the process of bacterial denitrification. Owing to the considerable number of known coordination modes for the hyponitrito ligand, its actual bonding form in the enzymatic cycle is a point of current discussion. Here, we contribute to the hardly known ligand properties of a key intermediate, the monoprotonated hyponitrite anion. Three air‐ and water‐stable ruthenium complexes with hydrogenhyponitrite as the ligand were synthesized by using commercially available bisphosphane co‐ligands (1,2‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane (dppe), 1,3‐bis(diphenylphosphino)propane (dppp), 1,2‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ethene (dppv)). The starting compounds [Ru(dppe)2(tos)]BF4 (1) and [Ru(dppp)2(tos)]BF4 (2) contained the bidentate coordinating tosylate anion (tos) as a particularly well‐suited leaving group. To confirm the protonated and deprotonated species, X‐ray diffraction, IR, UV/Vis spectroscopy (solution and solid state), solid‐state NMR spectroscopy, and high‐resolution mass spectroscopy were used. DFT calculations give insight into the bonding situation. We report on [Ru(dppe)2(HN2O2)]BF4 (5), [Ru(dppp)2(HN2O2)]BF4 (6), [Ru(dppv)2(HN2O2)]BF4 (7), [Ru(dppp)2(HN2O2)]BF4⋅Imi (9; Imi=imidazole) as the first mononuclear trans‐hydrogenhyponitrite complexes. Isolated deprotonated analogs are [Ru(dppe)2(N2O2)]⋅HImi(BF4) (8) and [Ru(dppv)2(N2O2)] ⋅HImi(BF4)⋅Imi (10).
Autopoietic Behavior of Dynamic Covalent Amphiphiles
Authors: Nguyen Rémi , Jouault Nicolas , Zanirati Stefano , Rawiso Michel , Allouche Lionel , Buhler Eric , Giuseppone Nicolas
Published: August 2018

The condensation of aldehydes and amines in water to give amphiphilic imines can lead to a particular autocatalytic behavior known as autopoiesis, in which the closed micellar structure made by the amphiphile at the mesoscale can accelerate the condensation of its constituents. Herein, through a combination of analytical tools, including diffusion ordered spectroscopy (DOSY) as well as light, neutron, and X‐ray scattering techniques, the thermodynamic and kinetic parameters were probed at both the level of dynamic covalent imine bond formation and the level of the resulting micellar self‐assemblies. It was found that the autopoietic behavior was the result of a combination of several parameters, including solubilization of hydrophobic building blocks, template effect at the core–shell interface, and growth/division cycles of the micellar objects.
Forschung und Produktion in einer digitalen Welt
Authors: Palkovits Regina , Wachsen Olaf , Ulber Roland , Wiechert Wolfgang
Published: August 2018

No abstract.
Clinical analysis of antithrombotic treatment and occurrence of stroke in elderly patients with nonvalvular persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Yu Lu‐Jiao , Chen Shuai , Xu Yao , Zhang Zi‐Xin
Published: August 2018

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is common in elderly patients and is associated with ischemic stroke. We sought to explore the current status of antithrombotic therapy in elderly patients with nonvalvular persistent AF.

Methods

This is a retrospective study and data were collected from the First Hospital of China Medical University. A total of 300 patients were enrolled from January 2015 to June 2017. Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (from 65‐74) and Group 2 (older than 75). The status of antithrombotic treatment was recorded. Follow‐ups were done at 7, 90 , 180, and 360 days after discharge. The occurrence of stroke was recorded.

Results

For 287 patients with a CHA2DS2‐VASc score ≥2, 41.10% received oral anticoagulants (OAC), 27.20% received new oral anticoagulants (NOAC), 42.20% received antiplatelet agents, 16.70% received no antithrombotic treatment. From 2015 to the first half 2017, the ratio of OAC was 25.90%, 51.89%, and 49.30%, respectively; ratio of NOAC were 16.90%, 30.19%, and 39.10%, respectively. During the four times follow‐up, percentage of patients who had good treatment compliance was 65%, 49.2%, 38.5%, and 25% stroke rate was 6.7% in total 300 patients. Logistic regression analysis showed age older than 75 (odds ratio [OR] 4.812), prior stroke (OR 4.109) were risk factors of stroke, and OAC treatment (OR 0.021) could prevent stroke.

Conclusion

Ratio of antithrombotic therapy in elderly patients with nonvalvular persistent AF was low and drug compliance was poor. Age, prior history of stroke, and OAC treatment are the important predictive factors of stoke in elderly patients.
Electrocatalytic Promotion of Pt Nanoparticles by Incorporation of Ni(OH)2 for Glycerol Electro‐Oxidation: Analysis of Activity and Reaction Pathway
Authors: Velázquez‐Hernández Isaac , Oropeza‐Guzmán Mercedes T. , Guerra‐Balcázar Minerva , Álvarez‐Contreras Lorena , Arjona Noé
Published: August 2018

In this work, the effect of Pt−Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles on the activity and reaction pathway of glycerol oxidation was studied. For this purpose, small Pt (4±0.2 nm) and Pt−Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles (4.7±0.4 nm) supported on Vulcan carbon were synthesized. Ni(OH)2 were found in the vicinity of Pt modifying the lattice parameter, inter‐planar distance and binding energy of Pt. Electrochemical evaluation indicated that Pt−Ni(OH)2/C had better electrocatalytic activity than Pt/C offering a higher current density (almost 45 mA mg−1), and lower onset (−0.3 V) and oxidation peak potentials (0.04 V). The improved activity was associated to the OH groups found in the vicinity of Pt active sites, facilitating the charge transfer due to a bifunctional mechanism. The in situ evaluation confirmed that the incorporation of Ni(OH)2 led to higher electron transfer due to short‐chain byproducts such as glycolate, mesoxalate and formate, which were found at the oxidation peak potential.
IoT and semantic web technologies for event detection in natural disasters
Authors: Greco Luca , Ritrovato Pierluigi , Tiropanis Thanassis , Xhafa Fatos
Published: August 2018

Natural disasters cannot be predicted well in advance, but it is still possible to decrease the loss of life and mitigate the damages, exploiting some peculiarities that distinguish them. Smart collection, integration, and analysis of data produced by distributed sensors and services are key elements for understanding the context and supporting decision making process for disaster prevention and management. In this paper, we demonstrate how Internet of Things and Semantic Web technologies can be effectively used for abnormal event detection in the contest of an earthquake. In our proposal, a prototype system, which retrieves the data streams from IoT sensors and web services, is presented. In order to contextualize and give a meaning to the data, semantic web technologies are applied for data annotation. We evaluate our system performances by measuring the response time and other parameters that are important in a disaster detection scenario.
Contribution of structured self‐monitoring of blood glucose to self‐efficacy in poorly controlled diabetes patients in China
Authors: Shen Yun , Zhu Wei , Lu Lihua , Lu Fengdi , Kan Kai , Bao Yuqian , Zhou Jian , Jia Weiping
Published: August 2018

Aim

To investigate the association between structured self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and diabetes self‐efficacy in Chinese patients.

Methods

This study was a single‐centre, open‐label, prospective, randomized controlled trial. A total of 250 type 1 and type 2 diabetes patients were recruited and randomly assigned to the structured SMBG group and the control group in a 1:1 ratio. The main outcome observed in this subgroup analysis was a change in the diabetes self‐efficacy scale (DSES) scores. A multivariate generalized estimating equation was used to evaluate factors affecting the DSES scores.

Results

We found that the DSES scores tended to decrease significantly with the follow‐up time in the intervention group (Waldβ = 7.882,P < .001; Waldβ = 3.130,P = .003; Waldβ = 7.879,P < .001). However, no significant differences in the DSES scores were detected in the control group. Glycaemic control improved in both the intervention and control groups at the third month (P < .05). In the intervention group, sustained improvement of the DSES scores maintained the improvement in glycaemic control through the sixth month. In the control group, glycaemic control tended to deteriorate in the sixth month without the support of an improved DSES scores (P = .056).

Conclusion

Structured SMBG could contribute to the effective and persistent improvement of diabetes self‐efficacy. (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02225691).