bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Executive Functions in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Berenguer Carmen , Rosello Belen , Leader Geraldine
Published: August 2018

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are two of the most common childhood-onset neurodevelopmental disorders. Literature has shown different patterns of deficits in executive functioning in children with ASD and ADHD. To date few studies have examined executive functions in both ASD and ADHD and with mixed results.The current study provides the first systematic review to explore distinct executive function components (attention problems, response inhibition, working memory, planning and flexibility) that underlie the specific deficits seen in children and adolescents with both ASD and ADHD disorders. Findings provide evidence for executive dysfunctions across different key components such as attention, response inhibition and verbal working memory in children and adolescents with ASD and comorbid ADHD clinical symptoms. This research explores the neurocognitive profile of the comorbid condition, which is also critical for designing appropriate interventions.
Social Intervention Impacts Action Anticipation, Goal Extraction, and Social Interest in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Haworth Joshua L. , Libertus Klaus , Landa Rebecca J.
Published: August 2018

Anticipatory looking in the context of goal-directed actions emerges during the first year of life. However, children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often show diminished social gaze and anticipation while observing goal-directed actions. The current study examined a therapist-mediated social intervention targeting action-anticipation, goal-extraction, and social gaze in 18 children with ASD diagnosis. Before and after the intervention period, children viewed a video displaying a toddler repeatedly placing blocks into a bowl using a cross-body motion. Gaze to the actor’s face and anticipatory gaze to the goal location were analyzed. Results revealed that young children with ASD understand repeated actions and demonstrate goal-extraction even before exposure to the intervention. Further, targeted social intervention experience led to a redistribution of attention in favor of the actor’s face, while retaining action intention comprehension of the block transfer activity. Attention to social aspects during action observation by children with ASD could have favorable cascading effects on social reciprocity, social contingency, and theory of mind development.
Laser induced selective electroless copper plating on polyurethane using EDTA-Cu as active material
Authors: Yan Binggong , Huang Xiaodi , Song Xuan , Kang Lei , Le Qihe , Jiang Kaiyong
Published: August 2018

Using EDTA-Cu as the active material and polyurethane as the matrix, flexible cathodes were fabricated by laser-induced electroless copper plating process (LPKF-LDS) and characterized by SEM, X-ray energy spectrum and Auger electron spectroscopy. Flexible cathodes prepared from EDTA-Cu and polyurethane showed good selectivity in copper plating process. Composition and particle morphology of EDTA-Cu, laser power, scanning speed, laser wavelength, laser spot size, pulse frequency etc. are the main factors that affect the fineness of electroless copper plating. By adjusting these parameters, the fineness of the copper plating was improved. X-ray energy spectrum and Auger electron spectroscopy results showed that after the laser scanning, both Cu^0 and Cu^(+1) appeared in the scanning area, revealing thus the mechanism of electroless copper plating for polyurethane-EDTA-Cu flexible cathodes.
Circumstances of the rise of the so-called Islamic State according to Patrick Cockburn’s perspective
Authors: Czapnik Slawomir
Published: August 2018

The aim of this article is to analyze the rise of the so-called Islamic State in the perspective of a Middle Eastern and commentator for “The Independent”, Patrick Cockburn, who also publishes in the “London Review of Books. The text begins with a sketch of the geopolitical determinants for the spread of the Islamic holy war, i.e. jihad. Then, it focuses on the disturbing phenomenon of sectarianism – directed mainly at the Shia branch of Islam – the attitudes of extremist Sunni preachers. The third chapter presents the complex combination of events that has contributed to the growth of extremist tendencies in Iraq. The subject of further deliberations is the conversion of the initially secular resistance to the regime of Bashar al-Assad in Syria into a civil war, in which jihadists are the main opponents of the president.
The concept of mobile, maritime system for location, assessment of technical condition, recovery and destruction of dumped chemical munitions
Authors: Fabisiak Jacek , Paczek Bartlomiej
Published: August 2018

After the World War II, acting under the terms of the Potsdam Agreement, the anti-Nazi coalition commenced destroying chemical and conventional munitions by dumping it in the seas (including in the Baltic Sea). As a result of these activities, tens of thousands of tons of ammunition were brought to the Baltic. The international project CHEMSEA has shown that dumped chemical munitions pose a threat to the environmental safety of the Baltic Sea, and that the need to collect and destroy munitions should be taken into account.
The article describes the assumptions of a pilot system to identify chemical munitions in the Baltic Sea (including selected areas of the Polish Maritime Areas), assess its technical condition and the potential for its recovery. In addition, existing technical solutions (allowing for the use of the best available techniques – BAT) provide the opportunity to collect and neutralize sunken chemical munitions.
Outline of activities of the Polish resistance movement in the territory of occupied France
Authors: Jagiello Robert
Published: August 2018

The article presents an outline of actions of the Polish resistance movement in occupied France. Particular attention has been given to soldiers and partisans who, prior to the invasion of allied forces on the European continent, performed heroic deeds demonstrating bravery and courage of a Polish soldier. The liberation struggles of the Polish nation in the past war are a still lively subject that focuses the attention of both historians and the society. The Polish participation in the liberation of France, especially through the activities of the Polish resistance movement as part of the operation under the codename “Continental Action”, is the main subject of this article.
The use of modelling of impacts exerted by means of transport on the environment for ensuring safety
Authors: Bril Joanna , Rydygier Edward
Published: August 2018

The article presents the model research on impacts exerted by means of transport on the structures. In modelling the dynamics of transport systems the dynamic properties of the ground forming the foundation soil for tracks or roadways have been taken into account. The ground has been modelled as an elastic half-space. The dynamics of an infinite mass band being in contact with an elastic half-space has been investigated. As part of the research on impacts exerted by means of transport on structures a model of a problem has been examined where an automotive vehicle, representing a concentrated force in motion, is in contact with a roadway described as a rigid body coupled with an elastic half-space. It has been demonstrated that a surface (Rayleigh) wave propagates in the ground, being a continuous (elastic) medium, and acts on a structure modelled as a rigid body. The research results have been presented in the form of vertical and horizontal transmittances of the ground for different frequencies of loading with different unit forces.
Effect of acetylcholine, pilocarpine, serotonin and adrenaline on the in vitro gastric motility of Hoplias malabaricus (Teleostei)
Authors: Vieira Vânia L. Pimentel , Baldisserotto Bernardo , Krause Sílvia
Published: August 2018

The in vitro effect of acetylcholine, pilocarpine, serotonina and adrenaline on gastric motility of the teleost Hoplias malabaricus was studied. The stomach of this specieshas spontaneous contractile activity, with no relationship between tension or frequency of contrations and fish weight. Acetylcholine reduced the frequency of contrations at higher concentrations, but had not effect at lower concentrations. The higher doses of this drug increased the tension and tonus of the contrations. Pilocarpine increased the frequency and tension of contractions at higher concentrations, but had not effect at lower concentrations, and increased tonus only at the concentration of 10-7 M. A significant correlation between the doses of acetylcholine and policarpine and tension of gastric contractions was found. Adrenaline and serotonina had not effect on the frequency, tension and tonus of the stomach contractions. The results obtained with acetylcholine and policarpine demonstrate that the stomach of H. malabaricus has muscarinic cholinoceptors. The results obtained with adrenaline and serptonin did not demonstrate the existence of adrenergic or serotonergic receptors in the stomach of this species.
Frequência de nascimentos gemelares em Santa Maria. I. Frequência de nascimentos gemelares no hospital da Universidade de Santa Maria no período de 1985 a 1995
Authors: Brambilla Claudete Maria Bittencourt de Borba , Correa-Costa Silvia Alix , Costa Eduardo Militz da , Giuliani Liane Rosso
Published: August 2018

The frequency of twin births was established at Santa Maria's University Hospital in the period from 1985 through 1995, when 253 double gestations (1,58%) and 6 triple gestations (0,037%) occurred, in a total of 16006 pregnancies. With the use of Weimberg's method , corrected by James, a frequency of 44,75% of dizygotic and therefore 55,25% of monozygotic twins pairs was found. The sex ratio showed that there were 85,82 males to 100 females among the twins, result that differed significantly of the sex ratio in single pregnancies, where 103,89 males to 100 females occurred. These results are compared with those found in other populations.
Visitação de Buddleja brasiliensis (Buddlejaceae) por abelhas e beija-flores em mata higrófila de Planalto Paulista
Authors: Figueiredo Rodolfo Antônio de
Published: August 2018

The pollination of Buddleja brasiliensis in the Atlantic rainforest is carried out by small hummingbirds. This study intended to verify if these birds are also the main visitors at this plant species in an upland forest of São Paulo State. Observations on floral visitors were done at the Reserva de Santa Genebra, Campinas, between 6:00am and 6:00pm (24 hours total). The hummingbirds Chlorostilbon aureoventris and Thalurania glaucopis visited the inflorescences, but the most frequent visitants were Apidae and Anthophoridae bees. These results indicate that the flowers of B. brasiliensis, although being visited by small hummingbirds, are utilized mainly by bees in hygrophilous forests.
Deep learning for predicting disease status using genomic data
Authors: Wu Qianfan , Boueiz Adel , Bozkurt Alican , Masoomi Arya , Wang Allan , DeMeo Dawn L , Weiss Scott T , Qiu Weiliang
Published: August 2018

Predicting disease status for a complex human disease using genomic data is an important, yet challenging, step in personalized medicine. Among many challenges, the so-called curse of dimensionality problem results in unsatisfied performances of many state-of-art machine learning algorithms. A major recent advance in machine learning is the rapid development of deep learning algorithms that can efficiently extract meaningful features from high-dimensional and complex datasets through a stacked and hierarchical learning process. Deep learning has shown breakthrough performance in several areas including image recognition, natural language processing, and speech recognition. However, the performance of deep learning in predicting disease status using genomic datasets is still not well studied. In this article, we performed a review on the four relevant articles that we found through our thorough literature review. All four articles used auto-encoders to project high-dimensional genomic data to a low dimensional space and then applied the state-of-the-art machine learning algorithms to predict disease status based on the low-dimensional representations. This deep learning approach outperformed existing prediction approaches, such as prediction based on probe-wise screening and prediction based on principal component analysis. The limitations of the current deep learning approach and possible improvements were also discussed.
Arabidopsis formin 2 regulates cell-to-cell trafficking by capping and stabilizing actin filaments at plasmodesmata
Authors: Diao Min , Ren Sulin , Wang Qiannan , Qian Lichao , Shen Jiangfeng , Liu Yule , Huang Shanjin
Published: August 2018

Here, we demonstrate that Arabidopsis thaliana Formin 2 (AtFH2) localizes to plasmodesmata (PD) through its transmembrane domain and is required for normal intercellular trafficking. Although loss-of-function atfh2 mutants have no overt developmental defect, PD’s permeability and sensitivity to virus infection are increased in atfh2 plants. Interestingly, AtFH2 functions in a partially redundant manner with its closest homolog AtFH1, which also contains a PD localization signal. Strikingly, targeting of Class I formins to PD was also confirmed in rice, suggesting that the involvement of Class I formins in regulating actin dynamics at PD may be evolutionarily conserved in plants. In vitro biochemical analysis showed that AtFH2 fails to nucleate actin assembly but caps and stabilizes actin filaments. We also demonstrate that the interaction between AtFH2 and actin filaments is crucial for its function in vivo. These data allow us to propose that AtFH2 regulates PD's permeability by anchoring actin filaments to PD.
Integrated externally and internally generated task predictions jointly guide cognitive control in prefrontal cortex
Authors: Jiang Jiefeng , Wagner Anthony D , Egner Tobias
Published: August 2018

Cognitive control proactively configures information processing to suit expected task demands. Predictions of forthcoming demand can be driven by explicit external cues or be generated internally, based on past experience (cognitive history). However, it is not known whether and how the brain reconciles these two sources of information to guide control. Pairing a probabilistic task-switching paradigm with computational modeling, we found that external and internally generated predictions jointly guide task preparation, with a bias for internal predictions. Using model-based neuroimaging, we then show that the two sources of task prediction are integrated in dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, and jointly inform a representation of the likelihood of a change in task demand, encoded in frontoparietal cortex. Upon task-stimulus onset, dorsomedial prefrontal cortex encoded the need for reactive task-set adjustment. These data reveal how the human brain integrates external cues and cognitive history to prepare for an upcoming task.
A buoyancy, balance and stability challenge to the hypothesis of a semi-aquaticSpinosaurusStromer, 1915 (Dinosauria: Theropoda)
Authors: Henderson Donald M.
Published: August 2018

A recent interpretation of the fossil remains of the enigmatic, large predatory dinosaurSpinosaurus aegyptiacusStromer 1915 proposed that it was specially adapted for a semi-aquatic mode of life—a first for any predatory dinosaur. To test some aspects of this suggestion, a three-dimensional, digital model of the animal that incorporates regional density variations, lungs and air sacs was generated, and the flotation potential of the model was investigated using specially written software. It was found thatSpinosauruswould have been able to float with its head clear of the water surface, although it was laterally unstable and would tend to roll onto its side. Similarly detailed models of another spinosauridBaryonyx(Suchomimus)tenerensisSereno et al. 1998, along with models of the more distantly relatedTyrannosaurus rexOsborn 1905,Allosaurus fragilisMarsh 1877,Struthiomimus altusLambe 1902, andCoelophysis bauriCope 1887 were also able to float in positions that enabled the animals to breathe freely, showing that there is nothing exceptional about a floatingSpinosaurus. Validation of the modelling methods was done with floated models of an alligator and an emperor penguin. The software also showed that the center of mass ofSpinosauruswas much closer to the hips than previously estimated, similar to that observed in other theropods, implying that this dinosaur would still have been a competent walker on land. With its pneumatised skeleton and a system of air sacs (modelled after birds), theSpinosaurusmodel was found to be unsinkable, even with its lungs deflated by 75%, and this would greatly hinder a semi-aquatic, pursuit predator. The conclusion is thatSpinosaurusmay have been specialized for a shoreline or shallow water mode of life, but would still have been a competent terrestrial animal.
De novo oviduct transcriptome of the moor frog Rana arvalis: a quest for maternal effect candidate genes
Authors: Shu Longfei , Qiu Jie , Räsänen Katja
Published: August 2018

Maternal effects can substantially affect ecological and evolutionary processes in natural populations. However, as they often are environmentally induced, establishing their genetic basis is challenging. One important, but largely neglected, source of maternal effects are egg coats (i.e., the maternally derived extracellular matrix that surrounds the embryo). In the moor frog, the gelatinous egg coats (i.e., egg jelly) are produced in the mother’s oviduct and consist primarily of highly glycosylated mucin type O-glycans. These O-glycans affect jelly water balance and, subsequently, contribute to adaptive divergence in embryonic acid tolerance. To identify candidate genes for maternal effects, we conducted RNAseq transcriptomics on oviduct samples from seven R. arvalis females, representing the full range of within and among population variation in embryonic acid stress tolerance across our study populations. De novo sequencing of these oviduct transcriptomes detected 124,071 unigenes and functional annotation analyses identified a total of 57,839 unigenes, of which several identified genes likely code for variation in egg jelly coats. These belonged to two main groups: mucin type core protein genes and five different types of glycosylation genes. We further predict 26,711 gene-linked microsatellite (simple sequence repeats) and 231,274 single nucleotide polymorphisms. Our study provides the first set of genomic resources for R. arvalis, an emerging model system for the study of ecology and evolution in natural populations, and gives insight into the genetic architecture of egg coat mediated maternal effects.
Alu hypermethylation and high oxidative stress in patients with musculoskeletal tumors
Authors: Woraruthai Thamonwan , Charoenlap Chris , Hongsaprabhas Chindanai , Mutirangura Apiwat , Honsawek Sittisak
Published: August 2018

Background

Alu is one of the non-autonomous element retrotransposons, constituting nearly 11% of the human DNA. Methylation changes of the Alu element can cause genomic instability, a hallmark of cancer development, ultimately leading to the development of cancer. Epigenetic factors may induce the aberrant methylation of Alu and also oxidative stress. However, current knowledge of Alu methylation and oxidative stress is limited. There are few studies that have evaluated Alu methylation and oxidative stress on musculoskeletal tumor progression. Therefore, the present study evaluated the status of Alu methylation in musculoskeletal (MS) tumor, adjacent tissues, and blood leukocytes from MS tumor subjects, as well as unaffected participants. Moreover, we also investigated the oxidative stress status in MS tumor subjects and the control participants and determined the correlation between Alu methylation in MS tumors and that in blood leukocytes.

Methods

Musculoskeletal tumors from musculoskeletal tumor patients (n = 40) were compared to adjacent tissues (n = 40). The blood leukocytes from musculoskeletal tumor patients were compared to the blood leukocytes from controls (n = 107). Alu methylation status was analyzed using quantitative combined bisulfite restriction analysis (COBRA). In addition, 8–hydroxy 2′–deoxyguanosine (8–OHdG) values were determined using enzyme—linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Alu methylation values in MS tumors were statistically significantly higher than those in adjacent tissues (P = 0.035). Similarly, Alu methylation statuses in the blood leukocytes of MS tumor subjects were statistically greater than those of control participants (P < 0.001). Moreover, there was a positive association between Alu methylation levels in MS tumors and blood leukocytes (r = 0.765, P < 0.001). In addition, the highest tertile was significantly associated with the risk of MS tumors (OR = 14.17, 95% CI [5.08–39.51]; P < 0.001). The 8-OHdG values in MS tumors were statistically higher than in adjacent tissues (P < 0.001) and circulating 8-OHdG levels were substantially greater in MS tumor subjects than in the control participants (P < 0.001).

Discussion

These findings suggest that Alu methylation in blood leukocytes and plasma 8-OHdG might represent non-invasive biomarkers to help diagnose MS tumors. Therefore, Alu hypermethylation and high oxidative stress might be involved in the pathogenesis of the musculoskeletal tumors.
A novel chitin‐binding mode of the chitin‐binding domain of chitinase A1 from Bacillus circulans WL‐12 revealed by solid‐state NMR
Authors: Tanaka Hiroki , Akutsu Hideo , Yabuta Izumi , Hara Masashi , Sugimoto Hayuki , Ikegami Takahisa , Watanabe Takeshi , Fujiwara Toshimichi
Published: August 2018

Chitin‐binding domain of chitinase A1 (ChBDChiA1) is characteristic because it binds only to insoluble crystalline chitin. While binding sites of major carbohydrate‐binding modules carry multiple aromatic rings aligned on a surface, lethal mutations for ChBDChiA1 were reported only at W687, a location completely different from the site mentioned above, in spite of their similar main‐chain folds. Here, the structural mechanism underlying its crystalline chitin binding was uncovered by solid‐state NMR. Based on 13C‐ and 15N‐signal assignment of microcrystalline ChBDChiA1, the chemical shift perturbation on chitin binding was carefully examined. The perturbation was greatest at W687 and nonaromatic residues surrounding it, revealing their direct involvement in chitin binding. These residues and Q679 should provide a novel chitin‐binding platform parallel to the W687 ring.
A hybrid volumetric dose verification method for single‐isocenter multiple‐target cranial SRS
Authors: Ahmed Saeed , Kapatoes Jeff , Zhang Geoffrey , Moros Eduardo G. , Feygelman Vladimir
Published: August 2018

A commercial semi‐empirical volumetric dose verification system (PerFraction [PF], Sun Nuclear Corp.) extracts multi‐leaf collimator positions from the electronic portal imaging device movies collected during a pre‐treatment run, while the rest of the delivered control point information is harvested from the accelerator log files. This combination is used to reconstruct dose on a patient CT dataset with a fast superposition/convolution algorithm. The method was validated for single‐isocenter multi‐target SRS VMAT treatments against absolute radiochromic film measurements in a cylindrical phantom. The targets ranged in size from 0.8 to 3.6 cm and in number from 3 to 10 per plan. A total of 17 films rotated at different angles around the cylinder axis were analyzed. Each of 27 total targets was intercepted by at least one film, and 2–4 different films were analyzed per plan. Film dose was always scaled to the ion chamber measurement in a high‐dose, low‐gradient area deliberately created at the isocenter. The planar dose agreement between PF and film using 3%(Global dose‐difference normalization)/1 mm gamma analysis was on average 99.2 ± 1.1%. The point dose difference in the low‐gradient area in the middle of every target was below 3%, while PF‐reconstructed and film dose centroids for individual targets showed submillimeter agreement when measured on a well aligned accelerator. Volumetrically, all voxels in all plans agreed between PF and the primary treatment planning system at the 3%/1 mm level. With proper understanding of its advantages and shortcomings, the tool can be applied to patient‐specific QA in routine radiosurgical clinical practice.
Dynamics of Strongly Coupled Hybrid States by Transient Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Hai , Wang Hai‐Yu , Sun Hong‐Bo , Cerea Andrea , Toma Andrea , De Angelis Francesco , Jin Xin , Razzari Luca , Cojoc Dan , Catone Daniele , Huang Fangcheng , Proietti Zaccaria Remo
Published: August 2018

Since the birth of quantum mechanics the construction and control of novel hybrid quantum states are among the dream targets of scientists. In this regard, due to recent technological advances, hybrid states based on strong coupling occurring between light and matter have become a laboratory reality. For example, it is demonstrated that strong coupling involving microcavities or surface plasmon polaritons shows great potential for novel nanoplasmonic devices such as lasers, all‐optical switching, field‐effect transistors, and for the evergreen field of quantum computation. Further developments in this field require, however, a better understanding of the underlying mechanisms governing strong coupling, especially from a time‐dependent point of view, time‐resolved spectroscopy being one of the leading experimental approaches to address this aspect. In this perspective, after a brief introduction of the strong coupling concept, the recent research progress on the dynamics of strongly coupled systems involving J‐aggregates, broadly absorptive dyes, semiconductor quantum dots, and perovskite films with either microcavities or surface plasmons polaritons is summarized and discussed. Finally, challenges and perspectives for developing strong coupling concept are further illustrated, with special attention to phonon–photon interaction, as one of the most intriguing topics in condensed matter physics.
Hollow Nanostructures for Photocatalysis: Advantages and Challenges
Authors: Xiao Mu , Wang Zhiliang , Lyu Miaoqiang , Luo Bin , Wang Songcan , Liu Gang , Cheng Hui‐Ming , Wang Lianzhou
Published: August 2018

Photocatalysis for solar‐driven reactions promises a bright future in addressing energy and environmental challenges. The performance of photocatalysis is highly dependent on the design of photocatalysts, which can be rationally tailored to achieve efficient light harvesting, promoted charge separation and transport, and accelerated surface reactions. Due to its unique feature, semiconductors with hollow structure offer many advantages in photocatalyst design including improved light scattering and harvesting, reduced distance for charge migration and directed charge separation, and abundant surface reactive sites of the shells. Herein, the relationship between hollow nanostructures and their photocatalytic performance are discussed. The advantages of hollow nanostructures are summarized as: 1) enhancement in the light harvesting through light scattering and slow photon effects; 2) suppression of charge recombination by reducing charge transfer distance and directing separation of charge carriers; and 3) acceleration of the surface reactions by increasing accessible surface areas for separating the redox reactions spatially. Toward the end of the review, some insights into the key challenges and perspectives of hollow structured photocatalysts are also discussed, with a good hope to shed light on further promoting the rapid progress of this dynamic research field.
Single‐Crack‐Activated Ultrasensitive Impedance Strain Sensor
Authors: Ye Jilong , Yang Tingting , Zhang Yafei , Lin Li
Published: August 2018

A development of single‐crack‐activated impedance strain sensors with unprecedented sensitivity is demonstrated first. The gauge factor of the device is beyond 108 in 10−4 strain range in comparison with the reported highest gauge factor 1.5 × 105 within 6e‐1 strain range, and the displacement sensitivity is 1.6 MΩ nm−1. The extremely high sensitivity is attributed to the transition region which has never been studied before. Multiple‐crack‐based sensors, however, cannot work in the transition region due to complicated interaction among cracks, which essentially limits their sensitivity. Additionally, studying a precisely controllable single crack rather than multiple cracks is favorable for excluding other factors such as crack spacing, difference among cracks, and interaction among cracks, simplifying the model and facilitating better understanding of the underlying mechanism of the device. The device can satisfy requirements of mechanical flexibility, durability, and repeatability. In addition, the device developed is capable of measuring displacement in nanometers range or force in tens of nanonewton range, and has the potential to be applied in various fields, such as specific biomolecular recognition.
Online Monitoring of the Degree of Fill in a Rotating Full‐Flight Screw of a Corotating Twin‐Screw Extruder
Authors: Taki Kentaro , Sugiyama Takemasa , Ohara Masatoshi , Umemoto Sho , Tanifuji Shin‐ichiro , Murata Jun‐ichi , Tsujimura Isao , Kihara Shin‐ichi
Published: August 2018

It is essential to understand the extent of partial filling of the flight screw, the degree of fill, which is an operational variable of the twin‐screw extruder (TSE). This article reports the first attempt to measure, in situ, the degree of fill in a rotating full‐flight screw using a specialized light‐section method for a TSE. The thickness of the resin sticking to the pushing side decreased with increasing rotational speed. The degree of fill is inversely proportional to the rotational speed and proportional to the feed rate. This result agreed well with the results suggested by the conventional analysis of flow in the TSEs. The fast Fourier transformation of the degree of fill time series indicated that the period of fluctuation correlated with the screw speed rather than the feed rate or throughput. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 65: 326–333, 2019
Sol–gel derived CeO2/α‐Al2O3bilayer thin film as an anti‐coking barrier and its catalytic coke oxidation performance
Authors: Kwon Hyuk T. , Bukhovko Maxim P. , Mahamulkar Shilpa , Sulmonetti Taylor , Min Byunghyun , Almas Qandeel , Malek Andrzej , Li Liwei , Agrawal Pradeep K. , Jones Christopher W.
Published: August 2018

A CeO2/α‐Al2O3bilayer was coated on a high temperature alloy (Incoloy 800H) by sol–gel dip‐coating and was evaluated for its potential as an anticoking barrier and coke oxidation catalyst. The bilayer effectively functioned as a barrier to metal surface catalyzed coking. The film prevented filamentous catalytic coking via blocking surface active metallic sites on the Incoloy substrate. Furthermore, the bilayer reduced the oxidation temperature of pyrolytic coke deposited on the film surface as compared to a bare oxidized Incoloy substrate, mostly owing to the oxidation catalytic activity of the CeO2layer. Finally, it is demonstrated that the presence of the α‐Al2O3buffer layer is critically important to the overall performance. Without the α‐Al2O3layer, a CeO2layer nearly completely lost both its barrier and oxidation catalytic functions. It is presumed that metallic species migrating from the substrate during high temperature treatments are responsible for the CeO2deactivation, likely by blocking catalytic sites on the CeO2surface. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical EngineersAIChE J, 64: 4019–4026, 2018
Multiple myeloma: 2018 update on diagnosis, risk‐stratification, and management
Authors: Rajkumar S. Vincent
Published: August 2018

Multiple myeloma accounts for approximately 10% of hematologic malignancies. The diagnosis requires ≥10% clonal bone marrow plasma cells or a biopsy proven plasmacytoma plus evidence of one or more multiple myeloma defining events: CRAB (hypercalcemia, renal failure, anemia, or lytic bone lesions) features felt related to the plasma cell disorder, bone marrow clonal plasmacytosis ≥60%, serum involved/uninvolved free light chain (FLC) ratio ≥100 (provided involved FLC is ≥100 mg/L), or >1 focal lesion on magnetic resonance imaging. Patients with del(17p), t(14;16), and t(14;20) have high‐risk multiple myeloma. Patients with t(4;14) translocation and gain(1q) have intermediate‐risk. All others are considered standard‐risk. Initial treatment consists of bortezomib, lenalidomide, dexamethasone (VRd). In high‐risk patients, carfilzomib, lenalidomide, dexamethasone (KRd) is an alternative to VRd. In eligible patients, initial therapy is given for approximately 3‐4 cycles followed by autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT). Standard risk patients can opt for delayed ASCT at first relapse. Patients not candidates for transplant are treated with VRd for approximately 8‐12 cycles followed by lenalidomide or lenalidomide plus dexamethasone. After ASCT, lenalidomide maintenance is recommended for standard risk patients, while maintenance with a bortezomib‐based regimen is needed for patients with intermediate or high‐risk disease. Most patients require a triplet regimen at relapse, with the choice of regimen varying with each successive relapse. Aggressive relapse with extramedullary plasmacytomas or plasma cell leukemia may require anthracycline containing combination chemotherapy regimens.
Biallelic deletions of the Waardenburg II syndrome gene, SOX10, cause a recognizable arthrogryposis syndrome
Authors: Stevenson Roger E. , Vincent Victoria , Spellicy Catherine J. , Friez Michael J. , Chaubey Alka
Published: August 2018

Random mating in the general population tends to limit the occurrence of homozygous and compound heterozygous forms of dominant hereditary disorders. Certain phenotypes, the most recognized being skeletal dysplasias associated with short stature, lead to cultural interaction and assortative mating. To this well‐known example, may be added deafness which brings together individuals with a variety of deafness genotypes, some being dominant. Waardenburg syndrome is one such autosomal dominant disorder in which affected individuals may interact culturally because of deafness. Biallelic genetic alterations for two Waardenburg genes, PAX3 and MITF have been previously recognized. Herein, we report biallelic deletions in SOX10, a gene associated with Waardenburg syndromes type II and IV. The affected fetuses have a severe phenotype with a lack of fetal movement resulting in four‐limb arthrogryposis and absence of palmar and plantar creases, white hair, dystopia canthorum, and in one case cleft palate and in the other a cardiac malformation.

A video abstract of this article can be found at https://players.brightcove.net/3806881048001/experience_5be9f0059c571e0013a32a65/share.html
C−C Bonds Cleavage of Biomass‐Derived Glycerol to Methane and Ethylene Glycol in Aqueous Phase Over Highly Dispersed Ru‐Based Catalysts
Authors: Huang Qian‐Qian , Yu Wei‐Qiang , Luo Xiao‐Lin , Gao Jin , Xu Jie
Published: August 2018

An alternative method for the conversion of crude glycerol was proposed to produce renewable energy methane and high‐value chemical ethylene glycol through preferential cleavage of C−C bonds, catalyzed by highly dispersed Ru‐based catalysts prepared by carbothermal reduction. It was found that the Ru particles size could be tuned by adjusting the reduction temperature, and the size firstly decreased then increased with raising of the temperature of carbothermal reduction. This resulted in the opposite tendency of catalytic performance against the Ru particle sizes in hydrogenolysis of glycerol, in which the glycerol conversion and yield of C−C bond cleavage increased firstly and then decreased. Ru catalysts carbothermal reduced at 450 °C possessed highly dispersed Ru nanoparticles with uniform particle sizes about 1.0 nm that showed high hydrogenation activity and selectivity of C−C bond cleavage as well as good stability that could be recycled in aqueous phase hydrogenolysis of glycerol.
Conjugated Polymer Nanoparticles with Appended Photo‐Responsive Units for Controlled Drug Delivery, Release, and Imaging
Authors: Senthilkumar Thangaraj , Zhou Lingyun , Gu Qi , Liu Libing , Lv Fengting , Wang Shu
Published: August 2018

Carriers that can afford tunable physical and structural changes are envisioned to address critical issues in controlled drug delivery applications. Herein, photo‐responsive conjugated polymer nanoparticles (CPNs) functionalized with donor–acceptor Stenhouse adduct (DASA) and folic acid units for controlled drug delivery and imaging are reported. Upon visible‐light (λ=550 nm) irradiation, CPNs simultaneously undergo structure, color, and polarity changes that release encapsulated drugs into the cells. The backbone of CPNs favors FRET to DASA units boosting their fluorescence. Notably, drug‐loaded CPNs exhibit excellent biocompatibility in the dark, indicating perfect control of the light trigger over drug release. Delivery of both hydrophilic and hydrophobic drugs with good loading efficiency was demonstrated. This strategy enables remotely controlled drug delivery with visible‐light irradiation, which sets an example for designing delivery vehicles for non‐invasive therapeutics.
Conformational Ensemble of Disordered Proteins Probed by Solvent Paramagnetic Relaxation Enhancement (sPRE)
Authors: Kooshapur Hamed , Schwieters Charles D. , Tjandra Nico
Published: August 2018

Characterization of the conformational ensemble of disordered proteins is highly important for understanding protein folding and aggregation mechanisms, but remains a computational and experimental challenge owing to the dynamic nature of these proteins. New observables that can provide unique insights into transient residual structures in disordered proteins are needed. Here using denatured ubiquitin as a model system, NMR solvent paramagnetic relaxation enhancement (sPRE) measurements provide an accurate and highly sensitive probe for detecting low populations of residual structure in a disordered protein. Furthermore, a new ensemble calculation approach based on sPRE restraints in conjunction with residual dipolar couplings (RDCs) and small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) is used to define the conformational ensemble of disordered proteins at atomic resolution. The approach presented should be applicable to a wide range of dynamic macromolecules.
A Facile Approach to Oximes and Ethers by a Tandem NO+‐Initiated Semipinacol Rearrangement and H‐Elimination
Authors: Dong Jia‐Wei , Ding Tongmei , Zhang Shu‐Yu , Chen Zhi‐Min , Tu Yong‐Qiang
Published: August 2018

An efficient oximation method has been developed on the basis of NO+‐initiated semipinacol rearrangement and subsequent proton elimination. The procedure enabled the rapid construction of a series of oximes and oxime ethers with spiro quaternary stereocenters from allylic silyl ethers. Additional features of this reaction include wide substrate tolerance as well as the commercial availability of the safe nitrosation reagent NOBF4. The key N‐heterotricyclic cores of three natural alkaloids, tuberostemoninol B, (+)‐quebrachidine, and an insecticide, were also constructed efficiently by this method.
Self‐Assembly of an Anion‐Binding Cryptand for the Selective Encapsulation, Sequestration, and Precipitation of Phosphate from Aqueous Systems
Authors: Rice Craig R. , Slater Christopher , Faulkner Robert A. , Allan Robert L.
Published: August 2018

The self‐assembled trimetallic species [L2Cu3]6+ contains a cavity that acts as a host to many different anions. By using X‐ray crystallography, ESI‐MS, and UV/Vis spectroscopy we show that these anions are encapsulated both in the solid state and aqueous systems. Upon encapsulation, the anions Br−, I−, CO32−, SiF62−, IO63−, VO43−, WO42−, CrO42−, SO42−, AsO43−, and PO43− are all precipitated from aqueous solution and can be removed by filtration. Furthermore, the cavity can be tuned to be selective to either phosphate or sulfate anions by variation of the pH. Phosphate anions can be removed from water, even in the presence of other common anions, reducing the concentration from 1000 to <0.1 ppm and recovering approximately 99 % of the phosphate anions.
Synthesis of N−H Bearing Imidazolidinones and Dihydroimidazolones Using Aza‐Heck Cyclizations
Authors: Xu Feiyang , Shuler Scott A. , Watson Donald A.
Published: August 2018

The synthesis of unsaturated, unprotected imidazolidinones via an aza‐Heck reaction is described. This palladium‐catalyzed process allows for the cyclization of N‐phenoxy ureas onto pendant alkenes. The reaction has broad functional group tolerance, can be applied to complex ring topologies, and can be used to directly prepare mono‐ and bis‐unprotected imidazolidinones. By addition of Bu4NI, dihydroimidazolones can be accessed from the same starting materials. Improved conditions for preparing unsaturated, unprotected lactams are also reported.
Catalytic Enantioselective Formal (4+2) Cycloaddition by Aldol–Aldol Annulation of Pyruvate Derivatives with Cyclohexane‐1,3‐Diones to Afford Functionalized Decalins
Authors: Chouthaiwale Pandurang V. , Aher Ravindra D. , Tanaka Fujie
Published: August 2018

The decalin structure is found in bioactive molecules. We have developed catalytic enantioselective formal (4+2) cycloaddition reactions via aldol–aldol cascade reactions between pyruvate‐derived diketoester derivatives and cyclohexane‐1,3‐dione derivatives that afford highly functionalized decalin derivatives. The reactions were performed using a quinidine‐derived catalyst under mild conditions. Decalin derivatives bearing up to six chiral carbon centers including tetrasubstituted carbon centers were synthesized with high diastereo‐ and enantioselectivities. Five to six stereogenic centers were generated from achiral molecules with the formation of two C−C bonds in a single transformation resulting in the formation of the decalin system.
Conductive, antibacterial, and electromagnetic shielding silver‐plated cotton fabrics activated by dopamine
Authors: Mao Yun , Wang Wei , Yu Dan
Published: August 2018

A two‐step method was developed in this article to fabricate conductive silver‐plated cotton fabrics, imparting them with antibacterial and electromagnetic shielding properties. Cotton fabric was firstly functionalized by a spontaneous polymerization of dopamine, which acted as an activation and adsorption layer to initiate the following silver plating through the catechol and indole functional groups. The chemical composition of the functional cotton fabric was investigated by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and the surface morphology of the fabric was observed by scanning electron microscopy. The crystalline structure of the silver‐coated cotton fibers was characterized by power X‐ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis of the fabric was also studied to show thermal stability. The homogeneous silver plating was highly conductive with surface resistance about 23.55 mΩ sq.−1 and shielding effectiveness was about 55~95 dB. It also demonstrated excellent and durable antibacterial property against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli both with reduction percent of bacteria over 99.99%. All of above features made this silver‐plated cotton fabrics a promising candidate as multifunctional textiles. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46766.
Between jouissance of speech and violence without law a Lacanian study of politics and the political after the decline of the father
Authors: Grammatopoulos Yannis
Published: August 2018

The present paper is a psychoanalytic reading of recent electoral events in Greece, the United Kingdom, and the United States, with the help of the Lacanian theory of the decline of the father and the concepts of jouissance and the sinthome. The case of Greece, where the radicalization of people's electoral and political choices took place in the framework of an unprecedented crisis, is studied emphatically, to highlight the different characters of this phenomenon's two main strands. The first, represented by the incumbent prime minister of the radical left in a coalition with a party of the populist right, is compared with a sinthomatic solution. The second, viewed in the atrocities of the neo‐Nazi party Golden Dawn, is described as the choice for pure violence. With regards to similar cases, such as Brexit Britain or Trump's America, psychoanalysis can highlight the significance of contingency, which could allow the emergence of such solutions.
Limiting Respiratory Viral Infection by Targeting Antiviral and Immunological Functions of BST‐2/Tetherin: Knowledge and Gaps
Authors: Berry Kayla N. , Kober Daniel L. , Su Alvin , Brett Tom J.
Published: August 2018

Recent findings regarding the cellular biology and immunology of BST‐2 (also known as tetherin) indicate that its function could be exploited as a universal replication inhibitor of enveloped respiratory viruses (e.g., influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, etc.). BST‐2 inhibits viral replication by preventing virus budding from the plasma membrane and by inducing an antiviral state in cells adjacent to infection via unique inflammatory signaling mechanisms. This review presents the first comprehensive summary of what is currently known about BST‐2 anti‐viral function against respiratory viruses, how these viruses construct countermeasures to antagonize BST‐2, and how BST‐2 function might be targeted to develop therapies to treat respiratory virus infections. The authors address the current gaps in knowledge, including the need for mechanistic understanding of BST‐2 antagonism by respiratory viruses, that should be bridged to achieve that goal.
Michelangelo Buonarroti's Code in the Frescoes of the Sistine Chapel – An Allusion to Gematria of the Hebrew/Greek Alphabet and the Golden Ratio
Authors: de Campos Deivis , da Costa Oliveira Miriam
Published: August 2018

According to Giorgio Vasari (1511–1574), the great genius of anatomy, Michelangelo Buonarroti (1475–1564), in painting the frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel (1508–1512), demonstrated to the world a new dimension/perspective of painting, especially in the sublime manner with which the artist represented the anatomical details of the characters that made up his frescoes. Since then, the Sistine Chapel has received millions of tourists annually, who marvel at the anatomical beauty of the characters depicted on its ceiling. It has also received many scholars of art and even anatomists, who have often tried to infer theses and explanations regarding Michelangelo's real intentions in elaborating this great work. However, even after five centuries, the Vatican's own official explanations of the true intentions of the artist remain quite uncertain. In an attempt to elucidate Michelangelo's possible intentions in the design of this memorable work, this article presents unpublished evidence that all the frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel were organized by the artist according to a code based on the number of characters in each fresco, the gematria of the Hebrew/Greek alphabet, and the Golden Ratio. This decoding process could reveal a key factor influencing the artist's intentions in ordering the elements in this work. Clin. Anat. 31:948–955, 2018. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.