bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sliding Mode Control for Markovian Jump Systems with Generalized Switching
Authors: Wang Yanhui , Wang Guoliang , Tong Huiyan
Published: October 2018

In this paper, the sliding mode control (SMC) problem for continuous‐time Markovian jump systems (MJSs) is considered, in which the transition rate matrix (TRM) is partially unknown and uncertain. Firstly, the sliding mode surface S(t) = 0 is designed, which is mode‐dependent. Therefore,
is used instead of
in the SMC algorithm. Via adopting a linear matrix inequality (LMI) approach, sufficient conditions are proposed to ensure that the reduced order system is exponentially stable in mean square. Furthermore, the reduced order system is completely insensitive to the external disturbance. Secondly, SMC law is designed correspondingly which dominated by a Markov process. It could drive the state trajectories onto the specified sliding mode surface in finite time quickly and maintain them on the surface in subsequently time. Thirdly, a new term in
will be introduced in the designed SMC and should be handled by a new approach. Finally, a numerical example is provided to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Verhalten von aus Baustoffen ausgelaugten Bioziden bei der Bodenpassage
Authors: Johann Sabine , Schwerd Regina , Scherer Christian R.
Published: October 2018

Biozide werden zahlreichen Bauprodukten zum Schutz des Materials vor Bewuchs durch Algen, Pilzen und weitere Mikroorganismen zugesetzt (Filmkonservierung). Damit sie von den Zielorganismen aufgenommen werden können, müssen die Biozide eine gewisse Wasserlöslichkeit besitzen. Diese führt gleichzeitig dazu, dass die Wirkstoffe bei Regenereignissen aus den Bauprodukten ausgelaugt werden und mit dem ablaufenden Regenwasser in den Boden sowie in Grund‐ und Oberflächenwasser gelangen können. Von einigen Bioziden ist zudem bekannt, dass sie in kommunalen Kläranlagen nicht abgebaut werden. Über das Verhalten der Wirkstoffe bei der Bodenpassage liegen derzeit nur wenige Untersuchungen vor. Um eine Aussage über das Verhalten von Bioziden beim Versickern im Boden treffen zu können, wurde die Bodenpassage der Biozide OIT, DCOIT, IPBC, Isoproturon, Terbutryn, Diuron, Carbendazim und Mecoprop‐P mithilfe von Säulenversuchen untersucht. Das Sorptions‐ und Abbauverhalten der Biozide wurde an zwei modellhaften Bodensorten (Quarzsand und Pflanzerde) beobachtet. Die Konzentrationen der betrachteten Biozide sowie deren Transformationsprodukte im Perkolat wurden per Direktinjektion mittels UPLC‐MS/MS bestimmt.
Bauphysikalische und ökologische Potenziale von adaptiven Leichtbaukonstruktionen
Authors: Harder Nadine , Schlegl Friederike , Albrecht Stefan , Park Sumee , Leistner Philip
Published: October 2018

Die zunehmende Inanspruchnahme von Ressourcen und die damit einhergehenden Umweltauswirkungen rücken im Bauwesen immer weiter in Vordergrund. Derzeit sind die beiden Disziplinen für etwa 60 % des Ressourcenverbrauchs sowie für etwa 35 % des Energieverbrauchs verantwortlich [1, 2]. Dieser Anteil könnte noch steigen, wenn alle Bauten eine konventionelle Weise verlangen, da die Weltbevölkerung weiter zunimmt. Prognosen gehen von einem Anstieg der Weltbevölkerung bis 2100 von derzeit knapp 7,5 Milliarden auf etwa 11,2 Milliarden Menschen aus [3]. Um der wachsenden Weltbevölkerung sowie der großen Ressourceninanspruchnahme gerecht zu werden, sind innovative, ressourcensparende Leichtbaukonstruktionen unumgänglich. Aktuelle Forschungsarbeiten erweitern das Spektrum hin zu adaptiven Leichtbaukonstruktionen, die es erlauben, bauphysikalische Eigenschaften gezielt anzupassen, um letztlich den extensiven Baustoffeinsatz zu reduzieren. Zur Quantifizierung und Verifizierung der damit verbundenen Potenziale in puncto Nachhaltigkeit wurden die Einflüsse der Adaptivität von Leichtbaukonstruktionen auf deren bauphysikalisches Verhalten sowie deren Ökobilanz erfasst und beschrieben.
Identification of a six‐gene signature with prognostic value for patients with endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yizi , Ren Fang , Chen Peng , Liu Shuang , Song Zixuan , Ma Xiaoxin
Published: October 2018

Uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC) is frequently diagnosed among women worldwide. However, there are different prognostic outcomes because of heterogeneity. Thus, the aim of the current study was to identify a gene signature that can predict the prognosis of patients with UCEC. UCEC gene expression profiles were first downloaded from the The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. After data processing and forward screening, 11 390 key genes were selected. The UCEC samples were randomly divided into training and testing sets. In total, 996 genes with prognostic value were then examined by univariate Cox survival analysis with a P‐value <0.01 in the training set. Next, using robust likelihood‐based survival modeling, we developed a six‐gene signature (CTSW, PCSK4, LRRC8D, TNFRSF18, IHH, and CDKN2A) with a prognostic function in UCEC. A prognostic risk score system was developed by multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression based on this six‐gene signature. According to the Kaplan‐Meier curve, patients in the high‐risk group had significantly poorer overall survival (OS) outcomes than those in the low‐risk group (log‐rank test P‐value <0.0001). This signature was further validated in the testing dataset and the entire TCGA dataset. In conclusion, we conducted an integrated study to develop a six‐gene signature for the prognostic prediction of patients with UCEC. Our findings may provide novel biomarkers for prognosis and have significant implications in the understanding of therapeutic targets for UCEC.
Cystic neutrophilic granulomatous mastitis with corynebacterium and staphylococcus mimicking breast carcinoma
Authors: Wang Yihong , LeGolvan Mark , Chapin Kimberle , Mainiero Martha
Published: October 2018

Key Clinical Message

Cystic neutrophilic granulomatous mastitis (CNGM) is an increasingly recognized entity in the differential diagnosis of granulomatous inflammation involving the breast. We present the first case report of CNGM mimicking carcinoma of the breast with two mixed bacterial species as the causative pathogens (Corynebacterium and Staphylococcus spp.).
Pillar5arenes as Supramolecular Hosts in Aqueous Biphasic Rhodium‐Catalyzed Hydroformylation of Long Alkyl‐chain Alkenes
Authors: Benatmane Missipssa , Cousin Kévin , Laggoune Nérimel , Menuel Stéphane , Monflier Eric , Woisel Patrice , Hapiot Frédéric , Potier Jonathan
Published: October 2018

Aqueous biphasic catalysis continues to attract strong interest, especially when very hydrophobic substrates are concerned. Indeed, their insolubility in water strongly limit their transformation by water‐soluble organometallic catalysts. To improve contacts between the substrate‐containing organic phase and the catalyst‐containing phase, one of the best solutions consists in using interfacial additives capable of supramolecularly recognize the substrate and/or the catalyst. In the present study, modified pillar5arenes are considered as interfacial additives and their performance is assessed in Rh‐catalyzed hydroformylation of long alkyl‐chain alkenes (higher olefins). Pillar5arenes substituted by carboxylate functions and methyl groups P5 A‐(Me)10‐x‐(CH2COOMe)x are compared to pillar5arenes substituted by polyethylene glycol (PEG) chains (P5 A‐(Me)5‐(PEG)5 and P5 A‐(PEG)10). Utilization of P5 A‐(Me)10‐x‐(CH2COOMe)x leads to high conversion and regioselectivity (linear/branched aldehyde ratio) in Rh‐catalyzed hydroformylation of 1‐decene and 1‐hexadecene. Compared with other interfacial additives such as modified cyclodextrins, the studied pillar5arenes show lower chemo‐selectivity, similar catalytic activity and higher regioselectivity.
Recovery of nickel and cobalt from nickel laterite leach solution using chelating resins and pre‐reducing process
Authors: Botelho Junior Amilton Barbosa , Espinosa Denise Crocce Romano , Dreisinger David , Tenório Jorge Alberto Soares
Published: October 2018

The aim of this work was to recover nickel and cobalt from a nickel laterite leach solution using chelating resins combined with a pre‐reducing process. Sodium sulphite was used as a reducing agent to convert Fe(II) from Fe(III) and increase adsorption efficiency. Batch experiments were performed using synthetic solutions to study the effect of pH in recovering these metals using chelating resins Lewatit TP 207 and Lewatit TP 220. Column experiments were performed to simulate the fixed‐bed column process in the following two steps: first, removing copper; and second, recovering nickel and cobalt. Two acids were tested as eluent, namely, sulphuric and hydrochloric acid 1M and 2M. Batch experiments showed that increasing the recovery of the metals accompanied an increase in pH. Copper recovery was maximal at pH 2.00, and the resin selectivity changed in pH above 2, decreasing copper adsorption. However, batch experiments showed that nickel and cobalt recovery was higher at pH 3.50, and resin adsorbed a high concentration of contaminants such as iron, zinc, and chromium. For this reason, nickel and cobalt recovery at pH 2.00 was better in column experiments, with less of the contamination in the metals being adsorbed by the resin and a high selectivity for nickel and cobalt. Hydrochloric acid 2M showed to be more efficient as eluent than sulphuric acid. A precipitation process using NaOH was used to remove contaminants present in the eluent solution, and Cyanex 272 was used to separate cobalt and nickel through the solvent extraction process.
NCI 8628: A randomized phase 2 study of ziv‐aflibercept and high‐dose interleukin 2 or high‐dose interleukin 2 alone for inoperable stage III or IV melanoma
Authors: Tarhini Ahmad A. , Frankel Paul , Ruel Christopher , Ernstoff Marc S. , Kuzel Timothy M. , Logan Theodore F. , Khushalani Nikhil I. , Tawbi Hussein A. , Margolin Kim A. , Awasthi Sanjay , Butterfield Lisa H. , McDermott David , Chen Alice , Lara Primo N. , Kirkwood John M.
Published: October 2018

Background

Interleukin 2 (IL‐2) is a growth factor for T and natural killer cells, promotes proinflammatory cytokines, and can lead to durable responses in patients with melanoma. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) promotes angiogenesis and modulates host innate and adaptive immunity. High VEGF levels were found to be associated with nonresponse to IL‐2. Ziv‐aflibercept may deplete VEGF and thereby enhance antitumor T‐cell responses, thus supporting a combination immunotherapeutic strategy with IL‐2.

Methods

NCI 8628 was a phase 2 trial of ziv‐aflibercept and IL‐2 (arm A) versus IL‐2 alone (arm B) randomized at 2:1, respectively. Eligible patients had inoperable American Joint Committee on Cancer stage III or stage IV melanoma. The primary endpoint was progression‐free survival (PFS).

Results

A total of 89 patients were enrolled and 84 patients were treated. The median follow‐up was 41.4 months. Among treated patients (55 patients in arm A and 29 patients in arm B), PFS was significantly improved in favor of arm A, with a median of 6.9 months (95% confidence interval [95% CI], 4.1‐8.7 months) versus 2.3 months (95% CI, 1.6‐3.5 months) (P<.001). No significant difference was noted with regard to overall survival, with a median of 26.9 months (95% CI, 14.4‐63.6 months) for arm A and 24.2 months (95% CI, 11.3‐36.4 months) for arm B. The response rate (according to Response Evaluation Criteria In Solid Tumors [RECIST]) was 22% in arm A (4 complete responses [CRs] and 8 partial responses [PRs]) and 17% in arm B (1 CR and 4 PRs). Stable disease or PR or CR was noted in 65% of patients in arm A and 48% of patients in arm B. The combination was found to be superior to monotherapy in patients with high and low levels of serum VEGF and VEGF receptor 2. Adverse events were consistent with the expected profiles of monotherapy with IL‐2 and ziv‐aflibercept.

Conclusions

Ziv‐aflibercept and IL‐2 were found to significantly improve PFS compared with IL‐2 alone, thereby meeting the primary endpoint of the current study. These findings support further study of immunotherapeutic combination strategies involving VEGF inhibitors.
Influence of OCT1 Ontogeny and Genetic Variation on Morphine Disposition in Critically Ill Neonates: Lessons From PBPK Modeling and Clinical Study
Authors: Hahn David , Emoto Chie , Euteneuer Joshua C. , Mizuno Tomoyuki , Vinks Alexander A. , Fukuda Tsuyoshi
Published: October 2018

Morphine is commonly used for analgesia in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) despite having highly variable pharmacokinetics (PKs) between individual patients. The pharmacogenetic (PG) effect of variants at the loci of organic cation transporter 1 (OCT1) and UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase 2B7 (UGT2B7) on age‐dependent morphine clearance were evaluated in a cohort of critically ill neonatal patients using an opportunistic sampling design. Our primary results demonstrate the significant influence of OCT1 genotype (P < 0.05) and gestational age (P ≤ 0.005) on morphine PKs. A physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model for morphine that accounted for OCT1 ontogeny and PG effect in post‐term neonates adequately described the clinically observed variability in morphine PKs. This study serves as a proof of concept for genotype‐dependent drug transporter ontogeny in neonates.
High‐Voltage and Low‐Temperature Aqueous Supercapacitor Enabled by “Water‐in‐Imidazolium Chloride” Electrolytes
Authors: Tatlisu Ammar , Huang Zhifeng , Chen Ruiyong
Published: October 2018

Symmetric aqueous high voltage supercapacitors up to 3 V have been demonstrated using concentrated aqueous 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride ([BMIm]Cl), namely, “water‐in‐imidazolium chloride”, as working electrolytes, and graphene nanoplatelets‐coated carbon paper as electrodes. Performance enhancement was further achieved either through adding redox species such as 4‐hydroxy‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐oxyl (4hT) into the electrolytes (110 Wh kg−1 for a 20 m [BMIm]Cl/H2O with 0.1 m 4hT) or by pre‐inserting ClO4− anions into the graphene platelets. Moreover, the newly studied aqueous electrolytes allow low‐temperature operation at −20 °C and even at −32 °C, retaining competitive energy storage capability (maximum energy densities of 36 and 21 Wh kg−1, respectively).
A metabarcoding approach for the feeding habits of European hake in the Adriatic Sea
Authors: Riccioni Giulia , Stagioni Marco , Piccinetti Corrado , Libralato Simone
Published: October 2018

European hake (Merluccius merluccius) is one of the most economically important fish for the Mediterranean Sea. It is an important predator of deep upper shelf slope communities currently characterized by growth overexploitation: the understanding of hake's diet might support next generation management tools. However, all current European hake diet studies depend on the morphological identification of prey remains in stomach content, with consequent limitations. In this study, we set up a metabarcoding approach based on cytochrome oxidase I PCR amplification and Miseq Illumina paired‐end sequencing of M. merluccius stomach content remains and compared the results to classic morphological analyses. A total of 95 stomach contents of M. merluccius sampled in the North‐Central Adriatic Sea were analyzed with both the metabarcoding and morphological approaches. Metabarcoding clearly outperformed the morphological method in the taxonomic identification of prey describing more complex trophic relationships even when considering the morphological identification of 200 stomach contents. Statistical analysis of diet composition revealed a weak differentiation among the hake's size classes, confirming an opportunistic feeding behavior. All the analyses performed showed the presence of a core of shared prey among the size classes and a cloud of size‐specific prey. Our study highlights the exceptional potential of metabarcoding as an approach to provide unprecedented taxonomic resolution in the diet of M. merluccius and potentially of other marine predators, due to the broad‐spectrum of detection of the primers used. A thorough description of these complex trophic relationships is fundamental for the implementation of an ecosystem approach to fisheries.
Evaluating ecohydrological modelling framework to link atmospheric CO2 and stomatal conductance
Authors: Lu Xuefei , Wang Lixin
Published: October 2018

The establishment of an accurate stomatal conductance (gs) model in responding to CO2 enrichment under diverse environmental conditions remains an important issue as gs is the key to understand the plant–water–atmosphere interactions. A better representation of gs is important to reduce uncertainties in predicting the climate change impacts on various ecosystem functions. In this study, we evaluated three most commonly used gs formulations for the estimation of the stomatal response to environmental factors using in situ measurements under different environmental conditions. The three gs models were Leuning's modified Ball–Berry model and two specific cases of the optimization models (i.e., Rubisco limitation model and RuBP regeneration limitation model). On the basis of an analysis of 234 data points obtained from experiments under instantaneous, semicontrolled, and the free‐air CO2 experiment conditions, we found that Leuning's modified Ball–Berry model and RuBP‐limited optimization model showed similar performance, and both performed better than Rubisco limitation model. Functional groups (e.g., C3 vs. C4 species) and life form (e.g., annual vs. perennial species) play an important role in determining the gs model performance and thus pose a challenge for gs predictions in mixed vegetation communities.
Adsorption characteristics of methyl blue onto magnetic Mn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles prepared via a rapid combustion process
Authors: Liu Yanghua , Yu Qingmei , Liu Xiao , Liu Ruijiang
Published: October 2018

A rapid combustion process for the preparation of magnetic Mn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles was introduced, which was composed of the preparation process of solution, combustion process and calcination process. The structure and properties of the as‐prepared product were investigated by X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and vibrating sample magnetometer. The results revealed that the volume of absolute alcohol and the calcination temperature were two key parameters for the preparation of Mn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles. With the volume of absolute alcohol increasing from 15 to 100 mL, the particle size of Mn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles calcined at 400°C for 2 h increased from 18 to 25 nm, and the saturation magnetization increased from 3.4 to 66.3 Am2/kg; while with the calcination temperature increasing from 400 to 700°C with 20 mL absolute alcohol, the particle size increased from 20 nm to 47 nm, the saturation magnetizations increased from 13.1 to 66.0 Am2/kg, and the specific surface area decreased from 102.99 to 0.13 m2/g. The adsorption characteristics of methyl blue (MB) onto Mn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles at room temperature were investigated, and the regression equation was found in good agreement with the pseudo‐second‐order adsorption kinetics model with the initial MB concentrations of 50–200 mg/L; the adsorption equilibrium data of MB onto Mn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles at room temperature were analyzed with Langmuir, Freundlich and Temkin models, and the adsorption isotherm was most effectively described by the Temkin model based on the value of the correlation coefficient (0.9931); the effect of pH on the adsorption of MB was examined, and the reusability of Mn0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles for adsorbing of MB revealed their excellent removal efficiency. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: S277–S287, 2019
Decolorization of Mono Azo Dye and Textile Wastewater using Nano Iron Particles
Authors: Raman Chandra Devi , Kanmani S.
Published: October 2018

Treatment of textile dyeing wastewater using existing physio‐chemical and biological methods is challenging and needs an efficient technique to manage toxic and recalcitrant textile dyes in the environment. As the nano iron particles are highly reactive, nontoxic, and cost‐effective, this study demonstrates the potential of nano iron particles in the decolorization of mono azo methyl orange dye and application to decolorize textile dyeing wastewater. The dye was decolorized 98% within 30 min of reaction time and 54% reduction in total organic carbon was observed. The detected intermediates products such as m/z 149, 128, 84, 73, 56, 55 confirm the efficiency of nano iron particles in degrading textile dyes into lower molecular compounds. The dye decolorization pathway and reaction mechanism are proposed. The treatment of real textile dyeing industry wastewater showed 82% dye color removal and reasonable reduction in the quantity of inorganic pollutants such as chlorides, sulfates. Hence,nano iron particles are highly recommended to remediate textile dyeing wastewater effectively. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: S366–S376, 2019
Laminated porous diatomite monoliths for adsorption of dyes from water
Authors: Nikjoo Dariush , Perrot Virginie , Akhtar Farid
Published: October 2018

Structured laminated diatomite monoliths with superior mechanical properties were prepared by controlled freeze‐casting of the aqueous suspensions of diatomite powders for wastewater treatment. The directional freezing of suspensions with solids loading of 25, 30, and 37 wt % at cooling from 0.5 to 5 K/min resulted in the formation of lamellar pores and solid walls with the thickness of 12–30 and 14–39 μm, respectively. The increase in solid loading and freezing rate resulted in refinement of the porous structure. Durable monoliths with the mechanical strength of 5.3 MPa were obtained by thermal treatment of the freeze‐dried green bodies at 1,373 K. Diatomite monoliths with a pore size of 29.6 μm showed the removal of model dye pollutant Rhodamine B from water by adsorption and long‐term water stability. The dye uptake capacity of monolith changed from 1.38 to 17.04 mg/g for the initial dye concentrations between 1.0 and 12.5 mg/L at 298 K and pH = 6, respectively. The adsorption data analysis using Lagergren's pseudo‐first‐order, pseudo‐second‐order, and intra‐particle diffusion models revealed that diatomite monoliths offered efficient mass transfer in the porous laminated scaffold and to the adsorption sites and bulk diffusion of dye molecules in water was the rate‐limiting mechanism for dye removal. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: S377–S385, 2019
Profiling of volatile flavor compounds in nkui (a Cameroonian food) by solid phase extraction and 2D gas chromatography time of flight mass spectrometry (SPME‐GC×GC‐TOF‐MS)
Authors: Adebo Oluwafemi A. , Njobeh Patrick B. , Desobgo Steve C. Z. , Pieterse Mark , Kayitesi Eugenie , Ndinteh Derek T.
Published: October 2018

The objective of this study was to investigate the volatile flavor compounds of nkui, a Cameroonian food, using solid phase microextraction (SPME) and a two‐dimensional gas chromatography time of flight mass spectrometry GC×GC‐TOF‐MS system. Using SPME, volatile compounds were extracted from nkui and analyzed by GC×GC‐TOF‐MS. The data retrieved revealed the presence of flavor volatiles including acids (20%), alcohols (4%), aldehydes (10%), aromatic compounds (4%), esters (7%), furans (4%), ketones (11%), terpenes and terpernoids (27%). Although the terpene compounds were the most predominant, an ester (linalyl acetate) had the highest percentage of 19%, conferring a sweet, green and citrus flavor. Results obtained from this study suggest that the characteristic flavor of nkui was due to the combination of different volatile flavor compounds, which contributed to its aroma. Considering the medicinal importance of these compounds, their presence positions nkui as a vital food source with health benefits and medicinal properties.
Composition and biochemical properties of l‐carnitine fortified Makgeolli brewed by using fermented buckwheat
Authors: Park Namhyeon , Nguyen Thi Thanh Hanh , Lee Gang‐Hee , Jin Shi‐Na , Kwak So‐Hyung , Lee Tae‐Kyung , Choi Yeong‐Hwan , Kim Seong‐Bo , Kimura Atsuo , Kim Doman
Published: October 2018

Makgeolli is a traditional Korean alcoholic rice beverage. It is brewed of ingredients containing starch, Nuruk, and water. In order to improve the quality and functionality of Makgeolli, the Rhizopus oligosporus fermented buckwheat containing 18.7 mg/kg of l‐carnitine were utilized to brew l‐carnitine fortified Makgeolli with rice. Makgeolli was prepared in two‐stage fermentation method and total rutin and quercetin in each fermented buckwheat Makgeolli were increased 1.8‐fold greater than buckwheat Makgeolli. DPPH antioxidant activity was enhanced in fermented buckwheat Makgeolli than buckwheat Makgeolli (21.9%–65.7%). The amounts of l‐carnitine in rice Makgeolli, buckwheat Makgeolli, and fermented buckwheat Makgeolli were 0.9, 0.8–1.0, and 1.0–1.9 mg/L, respectively. The fermented buckwheat Makgeolli not only promoted health benefit by increasing l‐carnitine and flavonols, but also made effective alcohol production (2.8%–8.4%) compared to common buckwheat Makgeolli, indicating the potential industrial application with health benefits.
Effects of NPK and biochar fertilized soil on the proximate composition and mineral evaluation of maize flour
Authors: Ogunyemi Adewale Muyideen , Otegbayo Bolanle O. , Fagbenro John A.
Published: October 2018

Series of farming practice methods have been employed to increase maize production but there is no adequate information on the effect of these methods on the nutritional and mineral content of organically grown maize. This study investigated the effects of inorganic and biochar fertilized soils on the proximate composition and mineral content of maize. Maize seeds were planted on organically fertilized soil (sawdust and gliricidia biochar), chemically fertilized soil Nitrogen Phosphorus and Potassium (NPK fertilizer), and soil without any amendment as control. The proximate compositions (protein, ash, crude fat, carbohydrate, and moisture) and mineral contents (Na, Mg, K, Ca, Fe, and Zn) of the maize flour samples were determined using standard methods. The results showed that protein content ranged from 4.58% to 7.24% (protein), ash 0.82% to 1.09%, crude fat 3.84% to 4.61%, moisture 9.76% to 10.60%, and carbohydrate 76.85% to 80.31%. There was no significant (p ≤ 0.05) difference among the proximate compositions except for protein and carbohydrate. Maize planted on NPK fertilized soil had the highest crude protein content of 7.24%. Other results obtained included sodium (55.65 mg/100 g), magnesium (35.87 mg/100 g), and iron (6.78 mg/100 g). Maize from soil without amendments was significantly higher than maize from NPK fertilized and biochar fertilized soils. Also, maize from control plot had the highest calcium content value of 48.95 mg/100 g. We concluded that maize planted with NPK fertilizer had higher nutrient than those planted with biochar application. Also, the mineral content of maize planted in control plot was higher than those on the amended soil.
Evaluation and comparison of in vitro antioxidant activities of unsaponifiable fraction of 11 kinds of edible vegetable oils
Authors: Wang Sujun , Yang Ruinan , Li Hui , Jiang Jun , Zhang Liangxiao , Zhang Qi , Li Peiwu
Published: October 2018

The radical scavenging capabilities of the extracts from eleven edible vegetable oils were investigated by using 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′‐azino‐bis‐3‐ ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS), and ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) assays. The results indicated that rapeseed oil and sesame oil showed higher radical scavenging abilities than other vegetable oils. When the radical scavenging capabilities of the extracts from virgin camellia oils and commercially available refined camellia oils were evaluated by FRAP assay, the results showed that the antioxidant capabilities of the former were higher than the latter. Therefore, it is recommended that moderate refining processes should be taken to minimize the loss of antioxidant components and people consume virgin oils or less processed edible vegetable oils for higher antioxidant activities.
Influence of maturity, smoking, and drying of fresh maize on sensory acceptability and nutritional content of the developed porridges
Authors: Saka Lizzie , Kasapila William , Ng'ong'ola Manani Tinna A. , Mlotha Vincent
Published: October 2018

This study investigated the potential of using the underutilized fresh maize in the preparation of porridge to contribute toward complementary feeding of children, and reductions in pre‐harvest losses. Fresh maize was harvested at different stages of maturity, blanched, smoked, and sun dried before milling into flours that were blended with soy flours for preparation of test porridges. The test flours were analyzed using the Association of the Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC) methods to determine their nutrient composition before preparation of the porridges. A trained consumer panel of 12 people, mothers and nursery school children tasted the porridges to rank acceptability and preference. Analysis of nutritional data showed that the test flours contained similar amounts of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates as the commonly used dried maize–soy flour blends. All the test porridges were generally accepted by the mothers and children due to the unique smoky and roasted aroma, brown color and the sweeter flavor even without the addition of sugar. Grainy texture and the presence of residues were the only unacceptable attributes in some of the test porridges. In conclusion, fresh maize–soy floor blends can be potentially used in complementary feeding of children at home and school as an alternative to other traditional maize flours. Optimization and fortification can help make the flours nutrient‐dense and most appropriate for child feeding at scale.
VISTA expression by microglia decreases during inflammation and is differentially regulated in CNS diseases
Authors: Borggrewe Malte , Grit Corien , Den Dunnen Wilfred F. A. , Burm Saskia M. , Bajramovic Jeffrey J. , Noelle Randolph J. , Eggen Bart J. L. , Laman Jon D.
Published: October 2018

V‐type immunoglobulin domain‐containing suppressor of T‐cell activation (VISTA) is a negative checkpoint regulator (NCR) involved in inhibition of T cell‐mediated immunity. Expression changes of other NCRs (PD‐1, PD‐L1/L2, CTLA‐4) during inflammation of the central nervous system (CNS) were previously demonstrated, but VISTA expression in the CNS has not yet been explored. Here, we report that in the human and mouse CNS, VISTA is most abundantly expressed by microglia, and to lower levels by endothelial cells. Upon TLR stimulation, VISTA expression was reduced in primary neonatal mouse and adult rhesus macaque microglia in vitro. In mice, microglial VISTA expression was reduced after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection, during experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), and in the accelerated aging Ercc1
Δ/− mouse model. After LPS injection, decreased VISTA expression in mouse microglia was accompanied by decreased acetylation of lysine residue 27 in histone 3 in both its promoter and enhancer region. ATAC‐sequencing indicated a potential regulation of VISTA expression by Pu.1 and Mafb, two transcription factors crucial for microglia function. Finally, our data suggested that VISTA expression was decreased in microglia in multiple sclerosis lesion tissue, whereas it was increased in Alzheimer's disease patients. This study is the first to demonstrate that in the CNS, VISTA is expressed by microglia, and that VISTA is differentially expressed in CNS pathologies.
Mapping the influences of resilience engineering on health, safety, and environment and ergonomics management system by using Z‐number cognitive map
Authors: Zarrin Mansour , Azadeh Ali
Published: October 2018

This study evaluates and analyzes the impacts of resilience engineering (RE) principles on integrated health, safety, environment, and ergonomics (HSEE) management system. In decision sciences, information should be reliable due to uncertainty and vagueness existing in information. To this end, in this study, the concept of Z‐numbers with fuzzy cognitive map (FCM) approach is integrated and a novel approach named Z‐number cognitive map is proposed. The main advantages of the proposed approach are determination of the weighted causality relations (for employing FCM) as well as handling uncertainty (for considering Z‐numbers concept). This approach is used to show the effects of RE indicators on HSEE management system. The required data for the proposed approach is collected from a large petrochemical plant by distributing questionnaires. According to the results, the RE principles have significant impact on HSEE management system. Top management commitment, learning, preparedness and awareness have the most impacts on environment, health, ergonomics and safety factors, respectively. This is the first study that employs Z‐number cognitive map for evaluating and improving the impacts of RE on HSEE factors in a large petrochemical plant. The proposed approach in this study, can help managers of various safety‐critical systems to improve their performance in terms of HSEE factors using RE concept.
Association between soluble immune mediators and tumor responses in patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer treated with anti‐PD‐1 inhibitor
Authors: Matsuo Norikazu , Azuma Koichi , Hattori Satoshi , Ohtake Junya , Kawahara Akihiko , Ishii Hidenobu , Tokito Takaaki , Yamada Kazuhiko , Shibata Yuji , Shimokawaji Tadasuke , Kondo Tetsuro , Kato Terufumi , Saito Haruhiro , Yamada Kouzo , Sasada Tetsuro , Hoshino Tomoaki
Published: October 2018

Although programmed death (PD)‐1 immune checkpoint therapies target the immune system, the relationship between inflammatory factors and the clinical outcome of anti‐PD‐1 therapy for nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is not fully understood. Here we examined the association between soluble immune mediators and the outcome of treatment with PD‐1 inhibitors in patients with advanced/recurrent NSCLC. In two independent cohorts, we assessed the levels of 88 different soluble immune mediators in peripheral blood before and after anti‐PD‐1 treatment, and evaluated their associations with clinical outcomes. In the training cohort, the plasma levels of chitinase 3‐like‐1 and GM‐CSF before treatment (p = 0.006 and p = 0.005, respectively) and changes in the plasma levels of CXCL2, VEGF, IFNα2, and MMP2 after treatment (p < 0.001, p = 0.019, p = 0.019, and p = 0.012, respectively) were significantly correlated with PFS. The change in the plasma CXCL2 level was also significantly associated with treatment‐related AEs (p = 0.017). In the validation cohort, however, only the changes in the plasma levels of CXCL2 and MMP2 after treatment were associated with PFS (p = 0.003 and p = 0.006, respectively), and these changes were maintained during the course of anti‐PD‐1 therapy in patients who showed better clinical outcomes, even in those with tumor pseudoprogression. Since CXCL2 and MMP2 can be easily measured by minimally invasive blood sampling, they could be useful for monitoring of clinical outcomes in NSCLC patients receiving PD‐1 inhibitor therapy.
The landscape of CAR T‐cell therapy in the United States and China: A comparative analysis
Authors: Gou Lijuan , Gao Jianchao , Yang Huan , Gao Chenyan
Published: October 2018

The clinical trials of CAR T‐cell therapy are growing fast in recent years, and most of the trials are initiated by sponsors from the United States and China. Exhibiting the distinctions between the clinical trials in the two countries is of great value for understanding the panorama of CAR T‐cell clinical trials and forecasting the future of this promising therapy. We analyzed the critical elements of 289 clinical trials posted on the clinicaltrials.gov website by sponsors from the two countries and evaluated the efficacy data in available 50 published CAR T‐cell studies. Our analysis shows that China has become the country with the largest number of CAR‐T cell clinical trials by the end of 2017, while overall subject sample size and study center numbers are still larger, and the design of the clinical trials is more cautious in the United States. There are obvious differences between the two countries in CAR‐targeted antigens in solid tumors and genetic modifications besides CARs for enhancing the potency of CAR T‐cells. Although the currently available response rates are promising in both countries, it is inexpedient to conclude that the clinical efficacy is comparable between the two countries considering the smaller patient sample sizes and discrete distribution of median cell doses in China. And finally, the flexible regulatory regime of cell therapy in China, which expedites the bursting of CAR T‐cell therapy, is also firstly introduced in our study.
Vitamin E intestinal absorption: Regulation of membrane transport across the enterocyte
Authors: Reboul Emmanuelle
Published: October 2018

Vitamin E is an essential molecule for our development and health. It has long been thought that it was absorbed and transported through cellular membranes by a passive diffusion process. However, data obtained during the past 15 years showed that its absorption is actually mediated, at least in part, by cholesterol membrane transporters including the scavenger receptor class B type I (SR‐BI), CD36 molecule (CD36), NPC1‐like transporter 1 (NPC1L1), and ATP‐binding cassettes A1 and G1 (ABCA1 and ABCG1). This review focuses on the absorption process of vitamin E across the enterocyte. A special attention is given to the regulation of this process, including the possible competition with other fat‐soluble micronutrients, and the modulation of transporter expressions. Overall, recent results noticeably increased the comprehension of vitamin E intestinal transport, but additional investigations are still required to fully appreciate the mechanisms governing vitamin E bioavailability. © 2018 IUBMB Life, 71(4):416–423, 2019
Recurrent Metastasized Parathyroid Carcinoma—Long‐Term Remission After Combined Treatments With Surgery, Radiotherapy, Cinacalcet, Zoledronic Acid, and Temozolomide
Authors: Storvall Sara , Ryhänen Eeva , Bensch Frank V , Heiskanen Ilkka , Kytölä Soili , Ebeling Tapani , Mäkelä Siru , Schalin‐Jäntti Camilla
Published: October 2018

Parathyroid carcinoma is a rare cause of primary hyperparathyroidism with rather poor prognosis. Apart from surgery, no evidence‐based treatments exist. A 48‐year‐old woman presented with weight loss, nausea, constipation, hypercalcemic crisis, and a recurrent neck tumor 5 years after primary surgery of a parathyroid tumor that primarily was classified as an adenoma. Histopathological reevaluation of the original tumor revealed the correct diagnosis to be parathyroid carcinoma (PC). The patient underwent surgery of the recurrent tumor, which was locally invasive with metastatic spread to the mediastinum and neck lymph nodes. Computed tomography demonstrated large lytic bone lesions in both iliac bones including, on the right, a soft tissue mass compatible with bone metastasis. The patient was treated with cinacalcet, repeated zoledronic acid infusions, and temozolomide cycles for 1 year. She underwent two additional neck surgeries for PC and sternotomy for resection of mediastinal metastases. Massive osteolytic lesions in both femoral necks caused imminent fracture risk and therefore both femurs were prophylactically stabilized by intramedullary nail. Serum calcium normalized after the third neck surgery, cinacalcet was discontinued, and parathyroid hormone gradually normalized during continued treatments with temozolomide, adjuvant radiotherapy, and zoledronic acid, with no signs of active disease on imaging and normal biochemistry. The patient remains in remission 17 years after successful combined treatments for recurrent, metastasized PC. The parathyroid tumor tissue demonstrated high O6‐methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status, a known predictor of positive temozolomide treatment response in other tumors. In addition, synergistic effects of multiple treatments may have accounted for the favorable response. © 2018 The Authors. JBMR Plus is published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Fermi‐Löwdin orbital self‐interaction corrected density functional theory: Ionization potentials and enthalpies of formation
Authors: Schwalbe Sebastian , Hahn Torsten , Liebing Simon , Trepte Kai , Kortus Jens
Published: October 2018

The Fermi‐Löwdin orbital self‐interaction correction (FLO‐SIC) methodology is applied to atoms and molecules from the standard G2‐1 test set. For the first time FLO‐SIC results for the GGA‐type PBE functional are presented. In addition, examples where FLO‐SIC like any proper SIC provides qualitative improvements compared to standard DFT functionals are discussed in detail: the dissociation limit for , the step‐wise linearity behavior for fractional occupation, as well as the significant reduction of the error of static polarizabilities. Further, ionization potentials and enthalpies of formation obtained by means of the FLO‐SIC DFT method are compared to other SIC variants and experimental values. The self‐interaction correction gives significant improvements if used with the LDA functional but shows worse performance in case of enthalpies of formation if the PBE‐GGA functional is used. The errors are analyzed and the importance of the overbinding of hydrogen is discussed. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Large sets of Hamilton cycle decompositions of complete bipartite 3‐uniform hypergraphs
Authors: Zhao Hongtao
Published: October 2018

Using the Katona‐Kierstead (K‐K) definition of a Hamilton cycle in a uniform hypergraph, we investigate the existence of large sets of wrapped K‐K Hamilton cycle decompositions of the complete bipartite 3‐uniform hypergraph , settling the existence whenever is odd. We also prove that there exists a large set of double wrapped K‐K Hamilton cycle decompositions of if and only if is even.
Some infinite families of 2‐designs from PG (n, q)
Authors: Zhan Xiaoqin , Ding Suyun
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we establish the existence of some infinite families of 2‐designs from ‐dimensional projective geometry , which admit ‐dimensional projective special linear group as their flag‐transitive automorphism group.
Primary tumors of the hand: Functional and restorative management
Authors: Bowen Chase M. , Landau Mark J. , Badash Ido , Gould Daniel J. , Patel Ketan M.
Published: October 2018

Primary malignant tumors of the hand are rare. Most cases present to clinics unaffiliated with cancer centers, making it incumbent on all hand surgeons to understand the pathology indicative of malignancy and the proper course of treatment of hand neoplasms. In this review, we report, based on tumor type, the anatomical considerations, proper management, staging, surgical approaches, reconstructive considerations, and long‐term surveillance of primary malignant tumors of the hand.
Safety and feasibility of early postmastectomy discharge and home drain care in a low resource setting
Authors: Olasehinde Olalekan , Alatise Olusegun , Arowolo Olukayode , Adisa Adewale , Wuraola Funmilola , Boutin‐Foster Carla , Lawal Oladejo , Kingham Thomas
Published: October 2018

Background

Early postmastectomy discharge with a drain in place is standard practice in most developed countries. Its feasibility has not been evaluated in low resource settings like Nigeria.

Methods

Consenting patients undergoing mastectomy were discharged on the third postoperative day and assessed as outpatients for wound complications as well as their experience at home. Wound outcomes were compared with patients who had traditional long stay.

Results

Forty‐five of the 58 patients who had a mastectomy during the study period participated in the early discharge program (77.6%). Of these, four patients (8.9%) had drain malfunction, seroma occurred in eight patients (17.8%), eight patients (17.8%) had wound infection, and six patients (13.3%) had flap necrosis. There was no readmission. Compared with long stay patients, postoperative stay was significantly shorter (3 vs 11 days; P < 0.01) with significant cost savings, while complication rates were not statistically different. All the patients in the early discharge group were confident operating their drains and preferred early discharge. Being around relatives, reduced cost, and fear of the hospital environment were common reasons cited for their preference.

Conclusion

Our results support the implementation of an early postmastectomy discharge program in a low resource setting.
Adjacent skin rotation flap for large defect in primary breast tumor
Authors: Jin Liting , Wu Xinhong , Zha Li , Feng Yaojun , Xu Juan , Zheng Hongmei , Shao Jun , Zhao Minjian , Cui Xiaojiang , Giuliano Armando E. , Gong Yiping
Published: October 2018

Backgrounds

Surgical resection of large primary breast tumor often results in large chest wall defects. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the feasibility of using adjacent skin rotation (ASR) flap in patients with giant primary breast tumor.

Methods

A total of 26 giant primary breast tumor patients treated with ASR flap were included in this study. The postoperative conditions, including operating time, blood loss, length of hospital stay, and clinical complications were observed. Meanwhile, the information on 17 breast tumor patients treated with transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap were collected and assigned to a control group.

Results

The mean defect size after mastectomy was 16.7 × 13.4 cm, while the median follow‐up period was 13 months after surgery. A total of 15.4% patients had developed with local complications, and one of them had more than one complication. When comparing the postoperative outcomes, statistically significant differences were found between the two groups with respect to operating time, blood loss, and length of hospital stay (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

ASR flap is a reliable technique for immediate reconstruction of massive chest wall defects in patients with giant primary breast tumor.
Does intra‐operative margin assessment improve margin status and re‐excision rates? A population‐based analysis of outcomes in breast‐conserving surgery for ductal carcinoma in situ
Authors: Laws Alison , Brar Mantaj S , Bouchard‐Fortier Antoine , Leong Brad , Quan May Lynn
Published: October 2018

Background and Objectives

Using a 2 mm margin criteria, we evaluated the effect of intra‐operative margin assessment on margin status and re‐excisions following breast‐conserving surgery (BCS) for ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

Methods

We identified patients undergoing BCS for DCIS from a prospective, population‐based database. Multivariable logistic regression was used to determine the effect of specimen mammography, ultrasound and macroscopic assessment by a pathologist on margins and re‐excision rates.

Results

In 588 patients, 52% (95% confidence interval [CI], 48%‐56%) had positive margins (<2 mm), 39% (95% CI, 35%‐43%) had a re‐excision and 15% (95% CI, 12%‐18%) had completion mastectomy. There were few re‐excisions for margins ≥2 mm (2%). Adjusting for confounders, any margin assessment versus wire localization alone did not reduce positive margins (odds ratio [OR], 0.75; P = 0.202) or re‐excisions (OR, 1.14;
P = 0.564), however both outcomes varied by type of technique (
P < 0.001). Individually, only macroscopic assessment by pathologist reduced positive margins (OR, 0.54;
P = 0.002) and re‐excisions (OR, 0.61;
P = 0.036).

Conclusions

Despite adherence to a 2 mm margin criteria, re‐excision rates remain high following BCS for DCIS, with 39% converted to mastectomy when re‐excision is required. Intra‐operative margin assessment does not appear to reduce re‐excisions; in particular, surgeons should be aware of the limitations of specimen mammography for margin assessment in DCIS.