bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organic‐Inorganic Hybrid Materials: Multi‐Functional Solids for Multi‐Step Reaction Processes
Authors: Díaz Urbano , Corma Avelino
Published: November 2017

The design of new hybrid materials with tailored properties at the nano‐, meso‐, and macro‐scale, with the use of structural functional nanobuilding units, is carried out to obtain specific multi‐functional materials. Organization into controlled 1D, 2D, and 3D architectures with selected functionalities is key for developing advanced catalysts, but this is hardly accomplished using conventional synthesis procedures. The use of pre‐formed nanostructures, derived either from known materials or made with specific innovative synthetic methodologies, has enormous potential in the generation of multi‐site catalytic materials for one‐pot processes. The present concept article introduces a new archetype wherein self‐assembled nanostructured builder units are the base for the design of multifunctional catalysts, which combine catalytic efficiency with fast reactant and product diffusion. The article addresses a new generation of versatile hybrid organic‐inorganic multi‐site catalytic materials for their use in the production of (chiral) high‐added‐value products within the scope of chemicals and fine chemicals production. The use of those multi‐reactive solids for more nanotechnological applications, such as sensors, due to the inclusion of electron donor‐acceptor structural arrays is also considered, together with the adsorption‐desorption capacities due to the combination of hydrophobic and hydrophilic sub‐domains. The innovative structured hybrid materials for multipurpose processes here considered, can allow the development of multi‐stage one‐pot reactions with industrial applications, using the materials as one nanoreactor systems, favoring more sustainable production pathways with economic, environmental and energetic advantages.
Evidence for Iron‐Catalyzed α‐Phosphinidene Elimination with Phenylphosphine
Authors: Pagano Justin K. , Ackley Brandon J. , Waterman Rory
Published: November 2017

The ubiquitous half‐sandwich iron complex [CpFe(CO)2Me] (Cp=η5‐C5H5) appears to be a catalyst for α‐phosphinidene elimination from primary phosphines. Dehydrocoupling reactions provided initial insight into this unusual reaction mechanism, and trapping reactions with organic substrates gave products consistent with an α elimination mechanism, including a rare example of a three‐component reaction. The substrate scope of this reaction is consistent with generation of a triplet phosphinidene. In all, this study presents catalytic phosphinidene transfer to unsaturated organic substrates.
Discovery of Potent EGFR Inhibitors through the Incorporation of a 3D‐Aromatic‐Boron‐Rich‐Cluster into the 4‐Anilinoquinazoline Scaffold: Potential Drugs for Glioma Treatment
Authors: Couto Marcos , García María Fernanda , Alamón Catalina , Cabrera Mauricio , Cabral Pablo , Merlino Alicia , Teixidor Francesc , Cerecetto Hugo , Viñas Clara
Published: November 2017

New 1,7‐closo‐carboranylanilinoquinazoline hybrids have been identified as EGFR inhibitors, one of them with higher affinity than the parent compound erlotinib. The comparative docking analysis with compounds bearing bioisoster‐substructures, demonstrated the relevance of the 3D aromatic‐boron‐rich moiety for interacting into the EGFR ATP binding region. The capability to accumulate in glioma cells, the ability to cross the blood–brain barrier and the stability on simulated biological conditions, render these molecules as lead compounds for further structural modifications to obtain dual action drugs to treat glioblastoma.
Isomerization of Allylic Alcohols to Ketones Catalyzed by Well‐Defined Iron PNP Pincer Catalysts
Authors: Xia Tian , Wei Zhihong , Spiegelberg Brian , Jiao Haijun , Hinze Sandra , de Vries Johannes G.
Published: November 2017

[Fe(PNP)(CO)HCl] (PNP=di‐(2‐diisopropylphosphanyl‐ethyl)amine), activated in situ with KOtBu, is a highly active catalyst for the isomerization of allylic alcohols to ketones without an external hydrogen supply. High reaction rates were obtained at 80 °C, but the catalyst is also sufficiently active at room temperature with most substrates. The reaction follows a self‐hydrogen‐borrowing mechanism, as verified by DFT calculations. An alternative isomerization through alkene insertion and β‐hydride elimination could be excluded on the basis of a much higher barrier. In alcoholic solvents, the ketone product is further reduced to the saturated alcohol.
Highly Selective Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Direct Oxygenation of Amines to Amides
Authors: Ray Ritwika , Hazari Arijit Singha , Chandra Shubhadeep , Maiti Debabrata , Lahiri Goutam Kumar
Published: November 2017

Reports on aerobic oxidation of amines to amides are rare, and those reported suffer from several limitations like poor yield or selectivity and make use of pure oxygen under elevated pressure. Herein, we report a practical and an efficient ruthenium‐catalyzed synthetic protocol that enables selective oxidation of a broad range of primary aliphatic, heterocyclic and benzylic amines to their corresponding amides, using readily available reagents and ambient air as the sole oxidant. Secondary amines instead, yield benzamides selectively as the sole product. Mechanistic investigations reveal intermediacy of nitriles, which undergo hydration to afford amide as the final product.
De Novo Synthesis of Benzannelated Heterocycles
Authors: Feierfeil Johannes , Magauer Thomas
Published: November 2017

Benzannelated heterocycles such as indoles and indazoles are prominent structural motifs found in natural products, pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals. For their synthesis, chemists traditionally either functionalize commercially available heterocycles or resort to transformations that make use of benzene‐derived building blocks. Here, we report a powerful cascade reaction that enables the de novo construction of variously substituted indoles, indazoles, benzofurans and benzothiophenes from readily available bicyclo[3.1.0]hexan‐2‐ones. The transformation can be conducted under mild, non‐anhydrous conditions. For the synthesis of indoles, mechanistic studies revealed that the electrocyclic ring‐opening of the bicyclic ring‐system and aromatization precedes the 3,3‐sigmatropic rearrangement.
The impact of pH on VLE, pervaporation, and adsorption of butyric acid in dilute solutions
Authors: Azimi Hoda , Tezel F. Handan , Thibault Jules
Published: November 2017

Butyric acid (BA) is an intermediate product and a precursor to the production of butanol in ABE fermentation. Ideally, it would be beneficial to retain as much BA in the fermenter as possible to increase butanol productivity. In this study, experiments were performed to assess the impact of the pH of the feed solution on the separation of BA from dilute aqueous solutions using three separation methods: distillation, pervaporation, and adsorption. Results confirm that the pH of the solution, which dictates the level of BA dissociation, controls the degree of separation of BA from dilute aqueous solutions. Indeed, results show that the vapour‐liquid equilibrium (VLE) curve, the membrane selectivity, and the adsorption capacity for BA in dilute aqueous solutions decreased steadily as the pH is increased from below to above its pKa value of 4.82. The separation performance is strongly correlated with the pH of the feed solution, and, as anticipated, a pH increase reduces the level of separation for these three processes. This is advantageous for the ABE fermentation incorporating a solvent recovery process since BA would remain in the fermenter and improve the production of butanol. However, the pH cannot increase excessively as there exists an optimum pH for conducting the fermentation process such that a judicious level of pH must be sought to optimize a fermentation‐separation integrated process.
Paper‐Based Polymer Electrodes for Bioanalysis and Electrochemistry of Neurotransmitters
Authors: Trouillon Raphaël , Gijs Martin A. M.
Published: November 2017

This article describes the preparation and characterization of PEDOT‐coated paper electrodes. Their specific behavior was investigated, especially the impact of electrode shape on the electrochemical properties. It was found that different electrode geometries promote different results, largely because of a potential drop in the bulk of the electrode material. More importantly, the suitability of these substrates for bio‐ and neurochemical analyses was investigated. The paper electrodes were found to offer better resistance to both protein and neurotransmitter foulings, in comparison to a planar electrode. Interestingly, long paper electrodes were more stable during sustained oxidation of dopamine and serotonin than short ones, possibly because of the conjunction of surface passivation and potential drop allowing for the site of oxidation to move along the electrode as fouling progresses.
Investigating the Conformation of the Bridged Monosaccharide Levoglucosan
Authors: Uriarte Iciar , Écija Patricia , Lozada‐Garcia Rolando , Çarçabal Pierre , Cocinero Emilio J.
Published: November 2017

Levoglucosan is one of the main products of the thermal degradation of glucose and cellulose and is commonly used as a tracer for biomass burning. Herein we report a conformational analysis of levoglucosan under isolation conditions, by means of microwave spectroscopy coupled with ultrafast laser vaporization in supersonic expansions. We observed three different conformations of levoglucosan in the gas phase. They all share a common heavy atom rigid bicyclic structure. The difference between the three of them lies in the network of intramolecular hydrogen bonds that arises from the OH groups at positions 2, 3 and 4. The different combinations of H‐bonds give richness to the conformational landscape of levoglucosan. The gas phase conformers obtained in this work are compared to the crystal structure of levoglucosan previously reported. Although the heavy atom frame remains unchanged, there are significant differences in the positions of the H‐atoms. In addition, the levoglucosan structure can be compared to the related glucose, for which gas phase conformational studies exist in the literature. In this case, in going from glucose to levoglucosan, there is an inversion in the chair conformation of the pyranose ring. This forces the OH groups to adopt axial positions (instead of the more favorable equatorial positions in glucose) and completely changes the pattern of intramolecular H‐bonds.
Giant cell tumor of temporomandibular joint presenting as a parotid tumor: Challenges in the accurate subclassification of giant cell tumors in an unusual location
Authors: Ren Rongqin , Mueller Sandra , Kraft Adele O. , Powers Celeste N.
Published: November 2017

Fine needle aspiration is frequently used as the initial diagnostic procedure in the work‐up of head and neck lesions, including soft tissue masses and salivary gland neoplasms. Giant cell tumors (GCTs), both osseous and extraosseous, are benign tumors that occur, albeit rarely, in the head and neck region. Extraosseous GCTs may be further classified based on their tissue of origin and specific anatomic location. Regardless of location, giant cell tumors are morphologically similar and share cytologic and histologic diagnostic criteria. Evaluation of imaging is therefore essential to the correct classification of these tumors. Accurate diagnosis is crucial since the clinical behavior and treatment is significantly different among the subtypes of GCTs. The case presented herein illustrates the diagnostic dilemma between two uncommon entities in an unusual site: GCT of parotid gland and tenosynovial GCT.
Respiratory sinus arrhythmia: Modeling longitudinal change from 6 weeks to 2 years of age among low‐income Mexican Americans
Authors: Jewell Shannon L. , Suk Hye Won , Luecken Linda J.
Published: November 2017

Parasympathetically‐mediated heart rate variability (HRV), commonly indexed via respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), is theorized to support the physiological regulation of emotion; however, little is known about the trajectory of change in resting RSA across early development among high‐risk populations for whom emotion regulation is crucial. This study characterized resting RSA change from 6 weeks to 2 years of age among 312 low‐income Mexican American infants. RSA was assessed longitudinally at 6, 12, 18, 24, 52, 78, and 104 weeks of age. On average, resting RSA increased as infants aged, and this change accelerated over time. There was significant variance between infants in resting RSA at 6 weeks of age, and in the slope, and acceleration of resting RSA change. Intraclass correlation among infants’ resting RSA measures was minimal, indicating that resting RSA may not be “trait‐like” during infancy. Results characterize early RSA development among a high‐risk sample, which can inform theoretical understanding of the development of emotional, and behavioral self‐regulation in a high‐risk population, as well as efforts to promote wellbeing across early childhood.
Corticospinal tract diffusion properties and robotic visually guided reaching in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy
Authors: Kuczynski Andrea M. , Dukelow Sean P. , Hodge Jacquie A. , Carlson Helen L. , Lebel Catherine , Semrau Jennifer A. , Kirton Adam
Published: November 2017

Perinatal stroke is the leading cause of hemiparetic cerebral palsy (CP), resulting in life‐long disability. In this study, we examined the relationship between robotic upper extremity motor impairment and corticospinal tract (CST) diffusion properties. Thirty‐three children with unilateral perinatal ischemic stroke (17 arterial, 16 venous) and hemiparesis were recruited from a population‐based research cohort. Bilateral CSTs were defined using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and four diffusion metrics were quantified: fractional anisotropy (FA), mean (MD), radial (RD), and axial (AD) diffusivities. Participants completed a visually guided reaching task using the KINARM robot to define 10 movement parameters including movement time and maximum speed. Twenty‐six typically developing children underwent the same evaluations. Partial correlations assessed the relationship between robotic reaching and CST diffusion parameters. All diffusion properties of the lesioned CST differed from controls in the arterial group, whereas only FA was reduced in the venous group. Non‐lesioned CST diffusion measures were similar between stroke groups and controls. Both stroke groups demonstrated impaired reaching performance. Multiple reaching parameters of the affected limb correlated with lesioned CST diffusion properties. Lower FA and higher MD were associated with greater movement time. Few correlations were observed between non‐lesioned CST diffusion and unaffected limb function though FA was associated with reaction time (R = −0.39, p < .01). Diffusion properties of the lesioned CST are altered after perinatal stroke, the degree of which correlates with specific elements of visually guided reaching performance, suggesting specific relevance of CST structural connectivity to clinical motor function in hemiparetic children.
The relationship between motor skills, perceived self‐competence, peer problems and internalizing problems in a community sample of children
Authors: Mancini Vincent , Rigoli Daniela , Roberts Lynne , Heritage Brody , Piek Jan
Published: November 2017

Poor motor skills have been associated with a range of interpersonal and intrapersonal difficulties, including poor self‐competence, peer problems, and internalizing problems such as anxiety and depression. The Elaborated Environmental Stress Hypothesis provides a theoretical framework for understating these relationships. Studies have recently begun to evaluate this framework; however, ongoing empirical investigation is required. Currently, the extent to which these relationships may differ across factors such as gender remains unclear. The current study tests an indirect effect of motor skills on internalizing problems via peer problems and perceived self‐competence in a community sample of 164 children (81 males; 83 females) aged 7 to 12 years. A combination of clinician‐administered, self‐report, and parent‐rated measures were used. Regression analysis using PROCESS indicated that the relationship between motor skills and internalizing problems was not moderated by gender. Motor skills did have an indirect effect on internalizing problems via perceived scholastic competence and peer problems. Results provide partial support for part of the Elaborated Environmental Stress Hypothesis; perceived scholastic competence and peer problems are mechanisms through which motor skills are related to internalizing problems in school‐aged children. This study highlights potentially important targets for psychomotor interventions for this age group.

Highlights

The Environmental Stress Hypothesis suggests that motor skills may have an indirect effect on internalizing problems via factors such as peer problems and perceived self-competence.

A community sample of 164 children aged 7–12 years provided measures of motor skills and psychosocial functioning.

Motor skills had an indirect effect on internalizing problems via perceived scholastic competence and peer problems. This relationship was not moderated by gender.
Longitudinal Effects of Teriparatide or Zoledronic Acid on Bone Modeling- and Remodeling-Based Formation in the SHOTZ Study
Authors: Dempster David W , Zhou Hua , Ruff Valerie A , Melby Thomas E , Alam Jahangir , Taylor Kathleen A
Published: November 2017

Previously, we reported on bone histomorphometry, biochemical markers, and bone mineral density distribution after 6 and 24 months of treatment with teriparatide (TPTD) or zoledronic acid (ZOL) in the SHOTZ study. The study included a 12-month primary study period, with treatment (TPTD 20 μg/d by subcutaneous injection or ZOL 5 mg/yr by intravenous infusion) randomized and double-blind until the month 6 biopsy (TPTD, n = 28; ZOL, n = 30 evaluable), then open-label, with an optional 12-month extension receiving the original treatment. A second biopsy (TPTD, n = 10; ZOL, n = 9) was collected from the contralateral side at month 24. Here we present data on remodeling-based bone formation (RBF), modeling-based bone formation (MBF), and overflow modeling-based bone formation (oMBF, modeling overflow adjacent to RBF sites) in the cancellous, endocortical, and periosteal envelopes. RBF was significantly greater after TPTD versus ZOL in all envelopes at 6 and 24 months, except the periosteal envelope at 24 months. MBF was significantly greater with TPTD in all envelopes at 6 months but not at 24 months. oMBF was significantly greater at 6 months in the cancellous and endocortical envelopes with TPTD, with no significant differences at 24 months. At 6 months, total bone formation surface was also significantly greater in each envelope with TPTD treatment (all p < 0.001). For within-group comparisons from 6 to 24 months, no statistically significant changes were observed in RBF, MBF, or oMBF in any envelope for either the TPTD or ZOL treatment groups. Overall, TPTD treatment was associated with greater bone formation than ZOL. Taken together the data support the view that ZOL is a traditional antiremodeling agent, wheareas TPTD is a proremodeling anabolic agent that increases bone formation, especially that associated with bone remodeling, including related overflow modeling, with substantial modeling-based bone formation early in the course of treatment. © 2017 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research.
Induced mutation and epigenetics modification in plants for crop improvement by targeting CRISPR/Cas9 technology
Authors: Khan Muhammad Hafeez Ullah , Khan Shahid U. , Muhammad Ali , Hu Limin , Yang Yang , Fan Chuchuan
Published: November 2017

Clustered regularly interspaced palindromic repeats associated protein Cas9 (CRISPR‐Cas9), originally an adaptive immunity system of prokaryotes, is revolutionizing genome editing technologies with minimal off‐targets in the present era. The CRISPR/Cas9 is now highly emergent, advanced, and highly specific tool for genome engineering. The technology is widely used to animal and plant genomes to achieve desirable results. The present review will encompass how CRISPR‐Cas9 is revealing its beneficial role in characterizing plant genetic functions, genomic rearrangement, how it advances the site‐specific mutagenesis, and epigenetics modification in plants to improve the yield of field crops with minimal side‐effects. The possible pitfalls of using and designing CRISPR‐Cas9 for plant genome editing are also discussed for its more appropriate applications in plant biology. Therefore, CRISPR/Cas9 system has multiple benefits that mostly scientists select for genome editing in several biological systems.
The effect of short heat treatment on different properties of PET fiber using double beam interference microscopy
Authors: Sokkar T. Z. N. , El‐Farhaty K. A. , El‐Bakary M. A. , Ali A. M. , Ahmed A. A.
Published: November 2017

Pluta microscope used to throw light on the effect of heat treatment time on the different properties of poly (ethylene terephthalate) PET fibers. PET fibers were annealed at times ranged from 5 to 30 min at different temperatures (150, 170, 190, 210°C) using two different processes (fast cooling and slow cooling processes) in air. The refractive indices, the shrinkage, orientation factor and crystallinity of PET fibers were determined for different annealing temperature during the short time treatment. The shrinkage percentage and degree of crystallinity increased with increasing the temperature and time of annealing. Microinterferograms are given for illustration.
Gene analysis and structure prediction for the cold‐adaption mechanism of trypsin from the krill Euphausia superba (Dana, 1852)
Authors: Zhou Tingting , Wang Xichang , Yan Juan , Li Yan
Published: November 2017

BACKGROUND

The ability of Antarctic krill, Euphausia superba (Dana, 1852), to thrive in a cold environment comes from its capacity to synthesize cold‐adapted enzymes. Its trypsin, as a main substance in the metabolic reactions, plays a key role in the adaption to low temperatures. However, the progress of research on its cold‐adaption mechanism is being influenced due to the limited information on its gene and spatial structure.

RESULTS

We studied the gene of E. superba trypsin with transcriptome sequencing first, and then discussed its cold‐adaption mechanism with the full gene and predicted structure basing on bioinformatics. The results showed the proportion of certain residues played important roles in the cold‐adaptation behavior for trypsin. Furthermore, a higher proportion of random coils and reduced steric hindrance might also be key factors promoting its cold adaption.

CONCLUSION

This research aimed to reveal the cold‐adaption mechanism of E. superba trypsin and provide support for basic research on molecular modification by site‐directed mutagenesis of complementary DNA used to produce new and improved recombinant variants with cold adaption. Furthermore, it may broaden its commercial application on minimizing undesirable changes elevated at higher temperature in food processing and in treatment of trauma and inflammation in medicine. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
The RAS mutation status predicts survival in patients undergoing hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastases: The results from a genetic analysis of all‐RAS
Authors: Amikura Katsumi , Akagi Kiwamu , Ogura Toshiro , Takahashi Amane , Sakamoto Hirohiko
Published: November 2017

Introduction

We investigated the impact of mutations in KRAS exons 3‐4 and NRAS exons 2‐3 in addition to KRAS exon 2, so‐called all‐RAS mutations, in patients with colorectal liver metastasis (CLM) undergoing hepatic resection.

Methods

We analyzed 421 samples from CLM patients for their all‐RAS mutation status to compare the overall survival rate (OS), recurrence‐free survival rate (RFS), and the pattern of recurrence between the patients with and without RAS mutations.

Results

RAS mutations were detected in 191 (43.8%). Thirty‐two rare mutations (12.2%) were detected in 262 patients with KRAS exon 2 wild‐type. After excluding 79 patients who received anti‐EGFR antibody therapy, 168 were classified as all‐RAS wild‐type, and 174 as RAS mutant‐type. A multivariate analysis of factors associated with OS and RFS identified the RAS status as an independent factor (OS; hazard ratio [HR] = 1.672, P = 0.0031, RFS; HR = 1.703, P = 0.0024). Recurrence with lung metastasis was observed significantly more frequent in patients with RAS mutations than in patients with RAS wild‐type (P = 0.0005).

Conclusions

Approximately half of CLM patients may have a RAS mutation. CLM patients with RAS mutations had a significantly worse survival rate in comparison to patients with RAS wild‐type, regardless of the administration of anti‐EGFR antibody therapy.
Phase II trial of preoperative chemoradiation plus perioperative SOX chemotherapy in patients with locally advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Liu Xiaowen , Li Guichao , Long Ziwen , Yin Jiliang , Zhu Xiaodong , Sheng Weiqi , Huang Dan , Zhu Hui , Zhang Zhaozhen , Cai Hong , Huang Hua , Zhao Guangfa , Zhou Ye , Zhang Zhen , Wang Yanong
Published: November 2017

Background and Purpose

The ideal treatment strategy of patients with locally advanced gastric adenocarcinoma is unclear. The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and feasibility of preoperative chemoradiation in these patients.

Patients and Methods

All patients underwent laparoscopic exploration or exploratory laparotomy before chemoradiation. Patients received one cycle of S‐1 and oxalipatin followed by concurrent radiation and chemotherapy, then underwent another cycle of S‐1 and oxalipatin. Surgery was performed 6‐8 weeks after completing radiochemotherapy. The rate of curative gastrectomy and survival were investigated. This trial was registered with ClinicalTrial.gov, number NCT02024217.

Results

From April 2012 to August 2014, 40 patients were enrolled in the trial, and 36 patients were assessable. The most common hematologic toxic effects were leukopenia (80.6%), neutropenia (69.4%), and thrombocytopenia (50%); the most common nonhematologic toxic effects were anorexia (50%), nausea (22.3%), and vomiting (13.9%). There were no treatment related deaths. A total of 33 patients underwent second exploratory laparotomy after preoperative chemoradiation, and 24 (67%) patients received curative gastrectomy. The rates of pathological complete response (pCR) were 13.9%. The medial survival time (MST) was 30.3 months.

Conclusion

Preoperative chemoradiation may be an effective treatment strategy among patients with locally advanced gastric adenocarcinoma.
Major vascular resections in retroperitoneal sarcoma
Authors: Tzanis Dimitri , Bouhadiba Toufik , Gaignard Elodie , Bonvalot Sylvie
Published: November 2017

Retroperitoneal sarcomas (RPS) frequently involve major vessels, which either originate from them or secondarily encase or invade them. In this field, major vascular resections result in increased morbidity. However, survival does not seem to be affected by the need for vascular resection or by this higher morbidity. This paper aims to provide descriptions of the surgical strategy and outcomes for retroperitoneal sarcomas involving major vessels.
Transected thin melanoma: Implications for sentinel lymph node staging
Authors: Herbert Garth , Karakousis Giorgos C. , Bartlett Edmund K. , Zaheer Salman , Graham Danielle , Czerniecki Brian J. , Fraker Douglas L. , Ariyan Charlotte , Coit Daniel G. , Brady Mary S.
Published: November 2017

Background and Objectives

Indications for sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy in patients with thin melanoma (≤1 mm thick) are controversial. We asked whether deep margin (DM) positivity at initial biopsy of thin melanoma is associated with SLN positivity.

Methods

Cases were identified using prospectively maintained databases at two melanoma centers. Patients who had undergone SLN biopsy for melanoma ≤1 mm were included. DM status was assessed for association with SLN metastasis in univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

1413 cases were identified, but only 1129 with known DM status were included. 39% of patients had a positive DM on original biopsy. DM‐positive and DM‐negative patients did not differ significantly in primary thickness, ulceration, or mitotic activity. DM‐positive and DM‐negative patients had similar incidence of SLN metastasis (5.7% vs 3.5%; P = 0.07). Positive DM was not associated with SLN metastasis on univariate analysis (OR 1.69, 95% CI: 0.95‐3.00, P = 0.07) or on multivariate analysis adjusted for Breslow depth, Clark level, mitotic rate, and ulceration (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 0.89‐2.85; P = 0.12).

Conclusions

For patients with thin melanoma, a positive DM on initial biopsy is not associated with risk of SLN metastasis, so DM positivity should not be considered an indication for SLN staging in an otherwise low‐risk patient.
Enhanced headspace single drop microextraction method using deep eutectic solvent based magnetic bucky gels: Application to the determination of volatile aromatic hydrocarbons in water and urine samples
Authors: Yousefi Seyedeh Mahboobeh , Shemirani Farzaneh , Ghorbanian Sohrab Ali
Published: November 2017

A facile headspace single drop microextraction method was developed using deep eutectic solvent‐based magnetic bucky gel as the extraction solvent for the first time. The hydrophobic magnetic bucky gel was formed by combining choline chloride/chlorophenol deep eutectic solvent and magnetic multiwalled carbon nanotube nanocomposite. Magnetic susceptibility, high viscosity, high sorbing ability, and tunable extractability of organic analytes are the desirable advantages of the prepared gel. Using a rod magnet as a suspensor in combination with the magnetic susceptibility of the prepared gel resulted in a highly stable droplet. This stable droplet eliminated the possibility of drop dislodgement. The prepared droplet made it possible to complete the extraction process in high temperatures and elevated agitation rates. Furthermore, using larger micro‐droplet volumes without any operational problems became possible. These facts resulted in shorter sample preparation time, higher sensitivity of the method, and lower detection limits. Under the optimized conditions, an enrichment factor of 520–587, limit of detection of 0.05–0.90 ng/mL, and linearity range of 0.2–2000 ng/mL (coefficient of determination = 0.9982–0.9995) were obtained. Relative standard deviations were < 10%. This method was successfully coupled with gas chromatography and used for the determination of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene isomers as harmful volatile organic compounds in water and urine samples.
Reversible Modulation of Elasticity in Fluoroazobenzene‐Containing Hydrogels Using Green and Blue Light
Authors: Zhao Fangli , Bonasera Aurelio , Nöchel Ulrich , Behl Marc , Bléger David
Published: November 2017

Hydrogels are soft materials that have found multiple applications in biomedicine and represent a good platform for the introduction of molecular switches and synthetic machines into macromolecular networks. Tuning their mechanical properties reversibly with light is appealing for a variety of advanced applications and has been demonstrated in the past; however, their activation typically requires the use of UV light, which displays several drawbacks related to its damaging character and limited penetration in tissues and materials. This study circumvents this limitation by introducing all‐visible ortho‐fluoroazobenzene switches into a hydrophilic network, which, as a result, can be activated with green or blue light. Photoisomerization of the photochromic moieties is accompanied by a reversible tuning of the elastic modulus. The translation of molecular isomerization within the network into macroscopic modulation of its mechanical properties is attributed to different aggregation tendencies of the E and Z isomers of the azobenzene derivatives.
A multimass correction for multicomponent fluid flow simulation using smoothed particle hydrodynamics
Authors: Prasanna Kumar S. S. , Patnaik B. S. V.
Published: November 2017

In multicomponent fluid flow simulations using smoothed particle hydrodynamics, the Lagrangian particles used are mostly of equal mass. This is preferred over multimass particle setup (particles with different values of mass), as it resolves the fluid interfaces comparatively better. But the flip side of using uniform mass particle setup is that it may not be computationally economical in situations with large‐density ratios. Hence, using multimass particle setup is both economical and perhaps inevitable. An attractive feature of multimass particle setup is that it allows uniform resolution in regions with different values of density. To take advantage of the multimass setup, it is therefore imperative to reduce the error associated with its usage. In this work, we present suitable multimass correction terms and assess its effectiveness using the ∇h–smooth particle hydrodynamics scheme. Standard benchmark problems, viz, shock tube test, triple‐point shock test, Rayleigh‐Taylor instability, and Kelvin‐Helmholtz instability were solved with multimass particle setup, where significant improvements could be achieved in resolving the associated contact discontinuities.
RNA interference technology in crop protection against arthropod pests, pathogens and nematodes
Authors: Zotti Moises , dos Santos Ericmar Avila , Cagliari Deise , Christiaens Olivier , Taning Clauvis Nji Tizi , Smagghe Guy
Published: November 2017

Scientists have made significant progress in understanding and unraveling several aspects of double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA)‐mediated gene silencing during the last two decades. Now that the RNA interference (RNAi) mechanism is well understood, it is time to consider how to apply the acquired knowledge to agriculture and crop protection. Some RNAi‐based products are already available for farmers and more are expected to reach the market soon. Tailor‐made dsRNA as an active ingredient for biopesticide formulations is considered a raw material that can be used for diverse purposes, from pest control and bee protection against viruses to pesticide resistance management. The RNAi mechanism works at the messenger RNA (mRNA) level, exploiting a sequence‐dependent mode of action, which makes it unique in potency and selectivity compared with conventional agrochemicals. Furthermore, the use of RNAi in crop protection can be achieved by employing plant‐incorporated protectants through plant transformation, but also by non‐transformative strategies such as the use of formulations of sprayable RNAs as direct control agents, resistance factor repressors or developmental disruptors. In this review, RNAi is presented in an agricultural context (discussing products that have been launched on the market or will soon be available), and we go beyond the classical presentation of successful examples of RNAi in pest‐insect control and comprehensively explore its potential for the control of plant pathogens, nematodes and mites, and to fight against diseases and parasites in beneficial insects. Moreover, we also discuss its use as a repressor for the management of pesticide‐resistant weeds and insects. Finally, this review reports on the advances in non‐transformative dsRNA delivery and the production costs of dsRNA, and discusses environmental considerations. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Probing the Local Electrical Properties of Al(In,Ga)N by Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy
Authors: Minj Albert , Ammar Hichem Ben , Cros Ana , Garro Nuria , Gamarra Piero , Delage Sylvain L. , Ruterana Pierre
Published: November 2017

In this work, local electrical properties of the crystallographic defects including V‐defects and trenches in ternary alloy AlGaN and quaternary alloys Al(Ga,In)N with different indium concentration are studied by light‐assisted Kelvin probe force microscopy. This surface sensitive technique is used to reveal the role of these defects as deep level electron traps. The evolution of topography of the layers from AlGaN to indium‐containing alloys is also investigated; it highlights the transformation of step‐flow to three‐dimensional growth mode. It is also shown that at the coalescence boundaries of growth hillocks, defects are generated which act as electrically active electron traps.
Hybrid Top‐Down/Bottom‐Up Fabrication of Regular Arrays of AlN Nanorods for Deep‐UV Core–Shell LEDs
Authors: Coulon Pierre‐Marie , Kusch Gunnar , Le Boulbar Emmanuel D. , Chausse Pierre , Bryce Christopher , Martin Robert W. , Shields Philip A.
Published: November 2017

Core–shell nanostructures are predicted to highly improve the efficiency of deep‐UV light emitting diodes (LEDs), owing to their low defect density, reduced quantum‐confined Stark effect, high‐quality non‐polar growth and improved extraction efficiency. In this paper, we report on the nanofabrication of high‐quality AlN nanorod arrays using a hybrid top‐down/bottom‐up approach for use as a scaffold for UV LED structures. We describe the use of Displacement Talbot Lithography to fabricate a metallic hard etch mask to allow AlN nanorod arrays to be dry etched from a planar AlN template. In particular, we investigate the impact of etching parameters on the nanorod etch rate, tapering profile and mask selectivity in order to achieve vertical‐sided nanorod arrays with high aspect ratios. AlN facet recovery is subsequently explored by means of regrowth using Metal Organic Vapor Phase Epitaxy. Low pressure and high V/III ratio promote straight and smooth sidewall faceting, which results in an improvement of the optical quality compared to the initial AlN template. The promising results open new perspectives for the fabrication of high‐efficiency deep‐UV‐emitting core–shell LEDs.
Lonicera japonica Thunb. Induces caspase‐dependent apoptosis through death receptors and suppression of AKT in U937 human leukemic cells
Authors: Park Cheol , Lee Won Sup , Han Min‐Ho , Song Kyoung Seob , Hong Su‐Hyun , Nagappan Arulkumar , Kim Gi‐Young , Kim Gon Sup , Jung Jin‐Myung , Ryu Chung Ho , Shin Sung Chul , Hong Soon Chan , Choi Yung Hyun
Published: November 2017

Decoctions obtained from the dried flowers of Lonicera japonica Thunb. (Indongcho) have been utilized in folk remedies against inflammatory diseases. Recently, many agents that have used for inflammatory diseases are showing anticancer effects. Here, we have isolated polyphenols extracted from lyophilized Lonicera japonica Thunb (PELJ) and investigated the anticancer effects of PELJ on U937 cells. Here, we demonstrated that PELJ induced apoptosis by upregulation of DR4 and Fas, and further it is augmented by suppression of XIAP. In addition, The PELJ‐induced apoptosis is at least in part by blocking PI3K/Akt pathway. These findings suggest that PELJ may provide evidence of anticancer activities on U937 cells. Further study for detailed mechanism and the effects on animal models is warranted to determine whether PELJ provide more conclusive evidence that PELJ which may provide a beneficial effect for treating cancer.
LHC searches for dark sector showers
Authors: Cohen Timothy , Lisanti Mariangela , Lou Hou Keong , Mishra-Sharma Siddharth
Published: November 2017

Abstract

This paper proposes a new search program for dark sector parton showers at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). These signatures arise in theories characterized by strong dynamics in a hidden sector, such as Hidden Valley models. A dark parton shower can be composed of both invisible dark matter particles as well as dark sector states that decay to Standard Model particles via a portal. The focus here is on the specific case of ‘semi-visible jets,’ jet-like collider objects where the visible states in the shower are Standard Model hadrons. We present a Simplified Model-like parametrization for the LHC observables and propose targeted search strategies for regions of parameter space that are not covered by existing analyses. Following the ‘mono-X’ literature, the portal is modeled using either an effective field theoretic contact operator approach or with one of two ultraviolet completions; sensitivity projections are provided for all three cases. We additionally highlight that the LHC has a unique advantage over direct detection experiments in the search for this class of dark matter theories.
EU Defence Cooperation after Brexit: What Role for the UK in the Future EU Defence Arrangements?
Authors: Howorth Jolyon
Published: November 2017

The UK has traditionally played an ambivalent role in European security and defence policymaking. With Brexit, the EU loses one of its two serious military players. On the other hand, it has been liberated from the constraints imposed by London on the Common Security and Defence Policy, and this has created a new dynamism behind the defence project. There has been comparatively little commentary on the defence implications of Brexit, and the UK has been less than forthcoming in making concrete proposals for an ongoing UK-EU partnership. Both sides assert that they wish to maintain a strong cooperative relationship after Brexit, but the outlines of such an arrangement remain very unclear. This article suggests that the UK will have more to lose than the EU from any failure to reach agreement, and that UK ambivalence about links between the Common Security and Defence Policy and NATO will prove to be a major sticking point.
Effects of exergaming on cardiovascular risk factors and adipokine levels in women
Authors: Amorim Maria Guadalupe Soares , de Oliveira Maurício Dias , Soares Daiane Santos , da Silva Borges Leandro , Dermargos Alexandre , Hatanaka Elaine
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of exergaming on the cardiovascular risk factors and adipokine levels of women engaged in the music video game Just Dance using the Xbox 360 Kinect console. Triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, FFA, CRP, TNF-α, Il-1β, IL-6, leptin, and resistin were measured in sedentary women before and 1 month after the practice of exergaming. We also evaluated anthropometric parameters. Our results indicate that total serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL were reduced by 64, 29, and 12%, respectively. HDL levels were not altered in the conditions of this study. A significant decrease was also found in the concentrations of TNF-α (57%), CRP (84.7%), resistin (68.4%), leptin (35%), FFA (90%), body mass index (10.5%), fat percentage (10.9%), weight (5.6%), abdominal circumference (2.3%), hip circumference (2.5%), and waist circumference (1.9%) after the training period. We concluded that exergaming was successful in reducing body fat, serum adipokine levels, and lipid profiles, thus reducing cardiovascular risks for women.
Jigsaw percolation on random hypergraphs
Authors: Bollobás Béla , Cooley Oliver , Kang Mihyun , Koch Christoph
Published: November 2017

The jigsaw percolation process on graphs was introduced by Brummittet al.(2015) as a model of collaborative solutions of puzzles in social networks. Percolation in this process may be viewed as the joint connectedness of two graphs on a common vertex set. Our aim is to extend a result of Bollobáset al.(2017) concerning this process to hypergraphs for a variety of possible definitions of connectedness. In particular, we determine the asymptotic order of the critical threshold probability for percolation when both hypergraphs are chosen binomially at random.
The dietary diversity and stunting prevalence in minority children under 3 years old: a cross-sectional study in forty-two counties of Western China
Authors: Wang Anqi , Scherpbier Robert W. , Huang Xiaona , Guo Sufang , Yang Yuning , Josephs-Spaulding Jonathan , Ma Chuyang , Zhou Hong , Wang Yan
Published: November 2017

As a key indicator of childhood malnutrition, few studies have focused on stunting in relation to various socio-economic factors in which disadvantaged groups face in China. We conducted a community-based cross-sectional study incorporating forty-two rural counties in seven western provinces of China in 2011. In total, 5196 children aged 6–23 months were included. We used Poisson regression to examine risk factors for inadequate minimum dietary diversity (MDD) and stunting status, respectively. Overall, the proportion of children not meeting MDD was 44·5 %. Children aged 6–11 months (adjusted risk ratio (ARR)=1·39; 95 % CI 1·31, 1·49), with two siblings (ARR=1·09; 95 % CI 1·02, 1·17), delivered at home (ARR=1·30; 95 % CI 1·20, 1·41), within Yi (ARR=1·15; 95 % CI 1·04, 1·28) or Uighur groups (ARR=1·52; 95 % CI 1·36, 1·71), with an illiterate caregiver (ARR=2·12; 95 % CI 1·52, 2·96), receiving lowest income (ARR=1·32; 95 % CI 1·17, 1·50), and with breast-feeding in the last day (ARR=1·55; 95 % CI 1·44, 1·66) were more likely to have inadequate MDD. Moreover, inadequate MDD was positively associated with stunting (ARR=1·15; 95 % CI 1·01, 1·31). Other determinants for stunting were age, sex, place of delivery, minority group and income. The stunting prevalence and proportion of inadequate MDD remained high in Western China; to reduce stunting rates of ethnic minorities, further efforts addressing appropriate dietary feeding practices are needed, especially within these groups.
Iron, zinc, vitamin A and selenium status in a cohort of Indonesian infants after adjusting for inflammation using several different approaches
Authors: Diana Aly , Haszard Jillian J. , Purnamasari Dwi M. , Nurulazmi Ikrimah , Luftimas Dimas E. , Rahmania Sofa , Nugraha Gaga I. , Erhardt Juergen , Gibson Rosalind S. , Houghton Lisa
Published: November 2017

Inflammation confounds the interpretation of several micronutrient biomarkers resulting in estimates that may not reflect the true burden of deficiency. We aimed to assess and compare the micronutrient status of a cohort of Indonesian infants (n230) at aged 6, 9 and 12 months by ignoring inflammation (unadjusted) and adjusting four micronutrient biomarkers for inflammation with C-reactive protein (CRP) andα-1-glycoprotein (AGP) using the following methods: (1) arithmetic correction factors with the use of a four-stage inflammation model; and (2) regression modelling. Prevalence of infants with any inflammation (CRP>5 mg/l and/or AGP>1 g/l) was about 25% at each age. Compared with unadjusted values, regression adjustment at 6, 9 and 12 months generated the lowest (P<0·001) geometric mean (GM) for serum ferritin (26·5, 14·7, 10·8 μg/l) and the highest GM for serum retinol-binding protein (0·95, 1·00, 1·01 μmol/l) and Zn (11·8, 11·0, 11·5 μmol/l). As a consequence, at 6, 9 and 12 months regression adjustment yielded the highest prevalence of Fe deficiency (20·3, 37·8, 59·5 %) and the lowest prevalence of vitamin A (26·4,16·6, 17·3 %) and Zn (16·9, 20·6, 11·0 %) deficiency, respectively. For serum Se, irrespective of adjustment, GM were low (regression: 0·73, 0·78, 0·81 μmol/l) with prevalence of deficiency >50 % across all ages. In conclusion, without inflammation adjustment, Fe deficiency was grossly under-estimated and vitamin A and Zn deficiency over-estimated, highlighting the importance of correcting for the influence of such, before implementing programmes to alleviate micronutrient malnutrition. However, further work is needed to validate the proposed approaches with a particular focus on assessing the influence of varying degrees of inflammation (i.e. recurrent acute infections and low-grade chronic inflammation) on each affected nutrient biomarker.