bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cycloid Psychosis Comorbid with Prader–Willi Syndrome: A Case Series
Authors: Singh Deepan , Sasson Arielle , Rusciano Vanessa , Wakimoto Yuji , Pinkhasov Aaron , Angulo Moris
Published: May 2019

Psychosis is a relatively common psychiatric phenomenon seen in patients with Prader–Willi Syndrome (PWS). However, the presentation is atypical and difficult to classify within currently defined affective or psychotic disorders. This distinct presentation may be better understood as a phenomenon called “cycloid psychosis,” described as an episodic psychosis with rapid full recovery between episodes. This study retrospectively analyzed the cases of 12 patients with genetically confirmed PWS who presented to an ambulatory psychiatric center for a change in behavior consistent with psychosis. Each case was then assessed for symptoms of cycloid psychosis, bipolar disorder, depression with psychotic features, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorder. Out of the 12 patients, 11 (91.7%) met the currently described diagnostic criteria for cycloid psychosis. Of the 12 patients, 7 (58.3%) also met the diagnostic criteria for bipolar disorder, and 1 (8.3%) also met the diagnostic criteria for schizoaffective disorder. None of the patients met the criteria for schizophrenia or depression with psychotic features. The findings in this study suggest that cycloid psychosis and bipolar disorder may both be comorbid with PWS. Psychiatric comorbidities in patients with PWS are atypical and clinicians should be aware of conditions such as cycloid psychosis when managing this vulnerable population.
Review of the phenotypic spectrum associated with haploinsufficiency of MYRF
Authors: Rossetti Linda Z. , Glinton Kevin , Yuan Bo , Liu Pengfei , Pillai Nishitha , Mizerik Elizabeth , Magoulas Pilar , Rosenfeld Jill A. , Karaviti Lefkothea , Sutton Vernon R. , Lalani Seema R. , Scott Daryl A.
Published: May 2019

The myelin regulatory factor gene (MYRF) encodes a transcription factor that is widely expressed. There is increasing evidence that heterozygous loss‐of‐function variants in MYRF can lead to abnormal development of the heart, genitourinary tract, diaphragm, and lungs. Here, we searched a clinical database containing the results of 12,000 exome sequencing studies. We identified three previously unreported males with putatively deleterious variants in MYRF: one with a point mutation predicted to affect splicing and two with frameshift variants. In all cases where parental DNA was available, these variants were found to have arisen de novo. The phenotypes identified in these subjects included a variety of congenital heart defects (CHD) (hypoplastic left heart syndrome, scimitar syndrome, septal defects, and valvular anomalies), genitourinary anomalies (ambiguous genitalia, hypospadias, and cryptorchidism), congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and pulmonary hypoplasia. The phenotypes seen in our subjects overlap those described in individuals diagnosed with PAGOD syndrome [MIM# 202660], a clinically defined syndrome characterized by pulmonary artery and lung hypoplasia, agonadism, omphalocele, and diaphragmatic defects that can also be associated with hypoplastic left heart and scimitar syndrome. These cases provide additional evidence that haploinsufficiency of MYRF causes a genetic syndrome whose cardinal features include CHD, urogenital anomalies, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and pulmonary hypoplasia. We also conclude that consideration should be given to screening individuals with PAGOD for pathogenic variants in MYRF, and that individuals with MYRF deficiency who survive the neonatal period should be monitored closely for developmental delay and intellectual disability.
Morpholine Ketene Aminal as Amide Enolate Surrogate in Iridium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Allylic Alkylation
Authors: Sempere Yeshua , Alfke Jan L. , Rössler Simon L. , Carreira Erick M.
Published: May 2019

Morpholine ketene aminal is employed in iridium‐catalyzed asymmetric allylic alkylation reactions as a surrogate for amide enolates to prepare γ,δ‐unsaturated β‐substituted morpholine amides. Kinetic resolution or, alternatively, stereospecific substitution affords the corresponding products in high enantiomeric excess. The utility of the products generated by this method has been showcased by their further elaboration into amines, ketones, or acyl silanes. A putative catalytic intermediate (η3‐allyl)iridium(III) with achiral P,Olefin‐ligand was synthetized and characterized for the first time.
Allylic Acetals as Acrolein Oxonium Precursors in Tandem C−H Allylation and [3+2] Dipolar Cycloaddition
Authors: Lee Heeyoung , Kang Dahye , Han Sang Hoon , Chun Rina , Pandey Ashok Kumar , Mishra Neeraj Kumar , Hong Sungwoo , Kim In Su
Published: May 2019

The ruthenium(II)‐catalyzed C−H functionalization of (hetero)aryl azomethine imines with allylic acetals is described. The initial formation of allylidene(methyl)oxoniums from allylic acetals could trigger C(sp2)−H allylation, and subsequent endo‐type [3+2] dipolar cycloaddition of polar azomethine fragments to deliver valuable indenopyrazolopyrazolones. The utility of this method is showcased by the late‐stage functionalization of bioactive molecules such as estrone and celecoxib. Combined experimental and computational investigations elucidate a plausible mechanism of this new tandem reaction. Notably, the reductive transformation of synthesized compounds into biologically relevant diazocine frameworks highlights the importance of the developed methodology.
High‐flow nasal oxygen for a high‐risk patient undergoing sedation in the prone position
Authors: Sodha S. , Fernandez T.
Published: May 2019

We describe the use of high‐flow nasal oxygen for an obese patient with obstructive sleep apnoea presenting for revision of a spinal cord stimulator. The use of high‐flow nasal oxygen allowed the delivery of a high inspired oxygen concentration with humidification and improved patient comfort compared with our usual choice of device, the Hudson mask. It also provided continuous positive airways pressure which is likely to have reduced pharyngeal collapse and atelectasis. The use of high‐flow nasal oxygen enabled the delivery and careful titration of deep sedation with propofol and remifentanil, to allow a successful revision procedure to take place without airway complications or significant oxygen desaturation in a high‐risk patient in the prone position.
Palladium on magnetic Irish moss: A new nano‐biocatalyst for suzuki type cross‐coupling reactions
Authors: Dolatkhah Zahra , Javanshir Shahrzad , Bazgir Ayoub , Hemmati Behnaz
Published: May 2019

A novel heterogeneous magnetic palladium nano‐biocatalyst was designed by utilizing Irish moss, a family of sulfated polysaccharides extracted from algae, as a natural biopolymer. This magnetic Irish moss decorated with palladium (Pd–Fe3O4@IM) to form a biomagnetic catalytic system was synthesized and well characterized by FT–IR analysis, X‐ray powder diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, atomic absorption spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The catalyst was stable to air and moisture and displayed high catalytic activity in ligand‐free Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reactions conducted under green chemistry reaction conditions. The aromatic ketones are produced by the cross‐coupling reaction between acid chlorides and aryl boronic acid derivatives in high yields.
Preparation of xanthan gum nanogels and their pH/redox responsiveness in controlled release
Authors: Zhang Liping , Xu Jie , Wen Quanwu , Ni Caihua
Published: May 2019

Crosslinked xanthan gum nanogels with pH/Redox responsiveness were prepared through an amidation reaction of xanthan gum with cystamine tetra‐hydrazide in aqueous solution by “one pot.” The structures and morphologies of the nanogels were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, proton magnetic resonance, dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscope, and transmission electron microscope. It was found that the nanogels demonstrated good pH/redox dual‐responsiveness due to the presence of disulfide bonds and both of amino and carboxyl groups in the polymers. Doxorubicin was loaded in the nanogels and the drug‐controlled release was investigated. The disulfide bonds in the crosslinked structure could be reduced by glutathione solutions，leading to breakdown of the crosslinking structure and drug release. The nanogels were biocompatible and they had promising prospects as anti‐cancer drug carriers for targeted release. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47921.
A novel, stretchable, silver‐coated polyolefin elastomer nanofiber membrane for strain sensor applications
Authors: Chang Kangqi , Li Mufang , Zhong Weibing , Wu Yongzhi , Luo Mengying , Chen Yuanli , Liu Qiongzhen , Liu Ke , Wang Yuedan , Lu Zhentan , Wang Dong
Published: May 2019

In this study, we prepared a novel, stretchable, and porous polyolefin elastomer (POE) nanofiber membrane (NM) on the basis of a high‐throughput, low‐cost, environmentally friendly melt‐blending method. To obtain an excellent conductivity, we prepared the Ag–POE composite NM via a facile and effective method of electroless plating. Via the control of the pretreatment process and concentration of the reactant, a homogeneous Ag layer formed on the surface of the POE nanofibers without damaging the original thermal and mechanical properties. Because of the good stretchability, conductivity, and porosity, the Ag–POE NM was used as a strain sensor to detect the pressure and airflow. When the silver nitrate concentration was 4 g/L, a good sensitivity and durability were obtained. The current change accurately recorded the deformation of the membrane under different pressures and air flows. The results of this study provide us with an industrial method to prepare Ag–POE NM and indicate its potential application as a strain sensor for outer stimuli detection. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47928.
Incorporation of different proportions of polytetrafluoroethylene and graphene into polyethersulfone matrix as efficient anticorrosive coatings
Authors: Zhang Bo , Di Yizeng , Zhu Shiyang , Wang Hongyue , Cao Guangzhao , Yao Hongyan , Song Ying , Shi Kaixiang , Tian Ye , Guan Shaowei
Published: May 2019

To solve defects existing in polyethersulfone (PES) coatings and improve their performance, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and functionalized graphene (fG) are incorporated into PES coatings to develop a new PES‐PTFE/fG coating. The incorporation vastly improves the anticorrosion properties of the coatings due to the synergistic effect of PTFE's low surface energy and fG's “labyrinth effect” and their filling effects. Moreover, results of research on the effects of different adding proportions of PTFE and fG on coatings properties show that PES‐PTFE/fG1 exhibits the lowest water absorption and still possesses high anticorrosion properties after long‐term corrosion tests, suggesting that it has optimal anticorrosion properties. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47942.
Residue and use‐wear analysis of non‐backed retouched artefacts from Deep Creek Shelter, Sydney Basin: Implications for the role of backed artefacts
Authors: ROBERTSON GAIL , ATTENBROW VAL , HISCOCK PETER
Published: May 2019

A previous use‐wear and residue analysis of backed artefacts from Deep Creek Shelter showed that they had a range of functions and had been used with a variety of raw materials. Were non‐backed retouched flakes at Deep Creek used for different purposes? To answer this question, 40 non‐backed specimens were selected for microscopic use‐wear and residue analysis. Not all of these non‐backed artefacts had been used, but we identified that many were scrapers, knives, incisors and saws. These tools were used for bone‐working and wood‐working, and possibly skin‐working and non‐woody plant‐processing. Some of these non‐backed retouched artefacts were hafted. For the first time, these results allow comparison of the tool use of backed and non‐backed artefacts in Australia. At Deep Creek, the range of functions for the non‐backed component was extremely similar to that of the backed artefacts. Although both artefact categories displayed similar tool use, they are distinguished in one interesting way: non‐backed specimens were often single purpose, dedicated to one function, whereas backed artefacts were often multifunctional and multipurpose. These results help us understand the structure of tool use in Australia.
A Flexible Two‐Fold Interpenetrated Indium MOF Exhibiting Dynamic Response to Gas Adsorption and High‐Sensitivity Detection of Nitroaromatic Explosives
Authors: Cao Zhen , Chen Lian , Li Shengchang , Yu Muxin , Li Zhijia , Zhou Kang , Liu CaiPing , Jiang Feilong , Hong Maochun
Published: May 2019

A flexible two‐fold interpenetrated indium metal‐organic framework InOF‐23, featuring one‐dimensional micro‐sized channels decorated by exposed N groups, was successfully synthesized. Interestingly, InOF‐23 displays unique dynamic responses to different gases (N2, Ar, and CO2) at low and room temperatures, which indicates that it can be a good candidate for gas adsorption and separation. Furthermore, the high efficiency detection for p‐nitroaniline (pNA) makes InOF‐23 a potential chemosensor for nitroaromatic explosives.
Functional characterization of host toxic EcdB transcription factor protein of echinocandin B biosynthetic gene cluster
Authors: Kumar Arvind , Kumar Vinay , Kumar Antresh
Published: May 2019

The ecdB is a transcription factor, located in the echinocandin B biosynthetic gene cluster of Emericella rugulosa NRRL11440. Here, we validated the ecdB mRNA sequence for functional expression and to explore the role of EcdB protein in the echinocandin B regulation. The sequence alignment study revealed that the ecdB coding sequence was found 75 bp shorter than the reference mRNA sequence. This coding sequence encodes for EcdB protein and comprises three conserved domains; DNA binding domain (DBD), coiled‐coil domain, and signature middle homology region. The full‐length and DBD (truncated) DNA sequences were expressed in Escherichia coli BL21(DE3) under different tested conditions. The expression of EcdB protein was found to be toxic, which curbs the cell growth. In contrast to truncated protein (GST:EcdB1‐54), the full‐length (GST:EcdB) protein was expressed at very low titer and not detectable in SDS‐PAGE under the varying isopropyl β‐d‐1‐thiogalactopyranoside (IPTG), temperature, and media conditions. However, GST:EcdB1‐54 was successfully purified under standard conditions (0.5 mM IPTG at 0.5OD) with 33 kDa expected size. The functionality of GST:EcdB1‐54 was attained by electrophoretic mobility shift assay study as a clear band shifting showed with ecdA promoter. Taken together, we conclude that EcdB interacts with the ecdA promoter that reflected to require for echinocandin B regulation.
Nachweisverfahren zum Erhalt des gemauerten Chemnitztal‐Viadukts
Authors: Purtak Frank
Published: May 2019

Am Beispiel der gemauerten neunfeldrigen Eisenbahn‐Bogenbrücke in Chemnitz werden für den Nachweis der Standsicherheit verschiedene Verfahren gegenübergestellt. Die maßgebende Stützlinie wird mithilfe einer speziellen FE‐Berechnungssoftware ermittelt, welche die Strukturnichtlinearität von gemauerten Konstruktionen berücksichtigt. Die Bemessungsfestigkeit des Mauerwerks unter ausmittiger Beanspruchung wird mit verschiedenen Verfahren ermittelt. Zur Kalibrierung des Berechnungsmodells wurden Belastungsversuche mit einem 600‐t‐Schwertransport durchgeführt. Der Erhalt des Chemnitztal‐Viadukts soll Ziel der Untersuchung sein.
Peptoids as tools and sensors
Authors: Culf Adrian S.
Published: May 2019

A review of molecular tools and sensors assembled onN‐substituted glycine, or α‐peptoid, oligomers between 2013 and November 2018 with the following sections: (a) Peptoids as crystal growth modifiers, (b) Peptoids as catalysts, (c) Ion and molecule sequestration and transport, (d) Peptoid sensors, (e) Macromolecule recognition, (f) Cellular transporters, (g) Medical imaging, (h) Future direction and (i) Summary and outlook. Peptoids are a promising class of peptide mimic making them an excellent platform for functional molecule preparation. Attributes of peptoid oligomers include: (a) the ease of precise sequence definition and mono‐dispersity; (b) access to a vast chemical space within simple and repeating chemical preparative steps and (c) thermal, chemical and biological stability all lending support for their application in a number of areas, with some that have been realised to date. The peptoid tool and sensor examples selected have realised practical utility. They serve to illustrate the rapidity of new insight that can generate in many disparate areas of science and technology, enabling the quick assembly of design criteria for efficient peptoid molecular tools and sensors.
Gamification through leaderboards: An empirical study in engineering education
Authors: Ortiz‐Rojas Margarita , Chiluiza Katherine , Valcke Martin
Published: May 2019

Universities are looking for solutions to engage more students in STEM domains and enhance their learning performance (LP). In this context, gamification is put forward as a solution to achieve this aim. The present study examined the effect of gamification – building on leaderboards ‐ on LP. Furthermore, mediating variables, such as intrinsic motivation, self‐efficacy, engagement, and background variables, such as sex, previous gaming experience, and undergraduate major, were considered. A pretest‐posttest quasi‐experimental design with an experimental and a control condition was set up (n = 89) in an Introductory Computer Programming course. We observed a significant improvement in the LP of students in the gamified condition. However, no interaction effect was detected, due to mediating and background variables. The high learning gain is a favorable indicator that gamification might be a promising approach to promote STEM programs.
Statin uses and mortality in colorectal cancer patients: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Li Yue , He Xingkang , Ding Yu’e , Chen Hongyang , Sun Leimin
Published: May 2019

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains one of the most common types of cancer and a leading cause of death worldwide. Previous studies indicated that statins may have a potential protective effect on CRC.

Methods

We conducted this meta‐analysis to systematically assess the overall and cancer‐specific survival benefit of statin uses on CRC patients. Related references were identified through PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, EMBASE, and SCOPUS from inception to August 2017. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) were adopted to calculate summary hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs), using a random‐effects model.

Results

Total fourteen studies involving 130 994 patients were included in this meta‐analysis. Six studies reported the association between pre‐diagnosis statin uses and CRC mortality, while 11 studies investigated mortality in patients using statins after CRC diagnosis. For pre‐diagnosis statin uses, the pooled HR of all‐cause mortality (ACM) was 0.85 (95% CI, 0.79‐0.92) and the pooled HR of cancer‐specific mortality (CSM) was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.79‐0.86). In terms of post‐diagnosis statin uses, the pooled HR of ACM was 0.86 (95% CI, 0.76‐0.98), and the pooled HR of CSM was 0.79 (95% CI, 0.70‐0.89). For post‐diagnosis statin uses, there is no difference in ACM when stratified by KRAS gene (KRAS) mutation status. Results of ACM and CSM did not markedly alter in other subgroup analyses.

Conclusion

Our meta‐analysis demonstrates that both pre‐diagnosis and post‐diagnosis statin uses are associated with reduced ACM and CSM for CRC patients.
Development and validation of a new staging system for node‐negative gastric cancer based on recursive partitioning analysis: An international multi‐institutional study
Authors: Lin Jian‐Xian , Wang Zu‐Kai , Wang Wei , Xie Jian‐Wei , Wang Jia‐Bin , Lu Jun , Chen Qi‐Yue , Cao Long‐Long , Lin Mi , Tu Ru‐Hong , Zheng Chao‐Hui , Li Ping , Zhou Zhi‐Wei , Huang Chang‐Ming
Published: May 2019

Background

Whether the tumor‐node‐metastasis (TNM) staging system is appropriate for patients with node‐negative gastric cancer (GC) is still inconclusive. The modified staging system developed by recursive partitioning analysis (RPA) showed good prognostic performance in a variety of cancers. The application of RPA has not been reported in the prognostic prediction of GC.

Methods

Node‐negative GC patients who underwent radical resection at Fujian Medical University Union Hospital (n = 862) and Sun Yat‐sen University Cancer Center (n = 311) with at least 5 years of follow‐up were selected as the training set. RPA was used to develop a modified staging system. Patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (n = 1415) were selected as the validation set.

Results

The 5‐year overall survival (OS) rates of patients with 8th AJCC‐TNM stage IA‐IIIA in the training set were IA 95.2%, IB 87.1%, IIA 78.3%, IIB 75.8%, and IIIA 72.6%. Multivariate analysis (MVA) showed that larger tumor size, elder age, and deeper depth of invasion were independent predictors for OS in patients with node‐negative GC (all P < 0.05). Patients were reclassified into RPA I, RPA II, RPA III, and RPA IV stages based on RPA; the 5‐year OS rates were 96.1%, 87.2%, 81.0%, and 64.3%, respectively, with significant difference (P < 0.05). Two‐step MVA showed that the RPA staging system was an independent predictor of OS (P < 0.05). Compared with the 8th AJCC‐TNM staging system, the RPA staging system had a smaller AIC value (2544.9 vs 2576.2), higher χ2 score (104.2 vs 69.6) and higher Harrell's C‐index (0.697 vs 0.669, P = 0.007). The similar results were found in the validation set.

Conclusions

A new prognostic predictive system based on RPA was successfully developed and validated, which may be suggested for staging node‐negative GC in future.
Comprehensive characterization of cancer‐testis genes in testicular germ cell tumor
Authors: Chang Yuting , Wang Xuewei , Xu Yide , Yang Liu , Qian Qufei , Ju Sihan , Chen Yao , Chen Shuaizhou , Qin Na , Ma Zijian , Dai Juncheng , Ma Hongxia , Jin Guangfu , Zhang Erbao , Wang Cheng , Hu Zhibin
Published: May 2019

Cancer‐testis (CT) genes are a group of genes restrictedly expressed in testis and multiple cancers and can serve as candidate driver genes participating in the development of cancers. Our previous study identified a number of CT genes in nongerm cell tumors, but their expression pattern in testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT), a cancer type characterized by less genomic alterations, remained largely unknown. In this study, we systematically investigated the expression pattern of CT genes in TGCT samples and evaluated the transcriptome difference between TGCT and normal testis tissues, using datasets from the UCSC Xena platform, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Genotype‐Tissue Expression (GTEx) project. Pathway enrichment analysis and survival analysis were conducted to evaluate the biological function and prognostic effect of expressed CT genes. We identified that 1036 testis‐specific expressed protein‐coding genes and 863 testis‐specific expressed long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) were expressed in TGCT samples, including 883 CT protein‐coding genes and 710 CT lncRNAs defined previously. The number of expressed CT genes was significantly higher in seminomas (P = 3.48 × 10−13) which were characterized by frequent mutations in driver genes (KIT, KRAS and NRAS). In contrast, the number of expressed CT genes showed a moderate negative correlation with the fraction of copy number altered genomes (cor = −0.28, P = 1.20 × 10−3). Unlike other cancers, our analysis revealed that 96.16% of the CT genes were down‐regulated in TGCT samples, while CT genes in stem cell maintenance related pathways were up‐regulated. Further survival analysis provided evidence that CT genes could also predict the prognosis of TGCT patients with both disease‐free interval and progression‐free interval as clinical endpoints. Taken together, our study provided a global view of CT genes in TGCT and provided evidence that CT genes played important roles in the progression and maintenance of TGCT.
Did appeals court grant 2nd chance to prof's retaliation claim?
Authors: Gelpi Aileen
Published: May 2019

The plaintiff was a tenure‐track assistant professor in the Exercise and Sport Performance Department of the University of New England, teaching exercise physiology and applied exercise nutrition.
Strive for clarity in personal, organizational goals
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: May 2019

As vice president for intercollegiate athletic programs and athletics director at the University of Oklahoma, Joseph R. Castiglione, M.Ed., has set clear goals and high standards.
Effects of Arginine Deimination and Citrulline Side‐Chain Length on Peptide Secondary Structure Formation
Authors: Wu Po‐Yi , Chen Chin‐Yi , Li Jhe‐Hao , Lin Jin‐Kai , Chen Ting‐Hsuan , Huang Shing‐Jong , Huang Shou‐Ling , Cheng Richard P.
Published: May 2019

Post‐translational modifications expand the chemical functionality of peptides and proteins beyond that originating from the encoded amino acids, but studies on the structural effects of these modifications have been limited. Arginine undergoes deimination to give citrulline (Cit), converting the positively charged guanidinium moiety into a neutral urea group. Herein, we report the effect of Arg deimination on secondary structure formation. To understand the reason for the number of methylene units in Cit, the effect of Cit side‐chain length on secondary structure formation was also studied. Ala‐based peptides and β‐hairpin peptides were used to study α‐helix and β‐sheet formation, respectively. Peptides containing Cit analogues were prepared by an orthogonal protecting group strategy coupled with solid‐phase carbamylation. The CD data for the Ala‐based peptides were analyzed by using modified Lifson–Roig theory, showing that the helix propensity of Arg decreased upon deimination and that either shortening or lengthening Cit also decreased the helix propensity. The β‐hairpin peptides were analyzed by NMR methods, showing minimal change in strand formation energetics upon Arg deimination. Altering the Cit side‐chain length did not affect strand formation energetics either. These results should be useful for the preparation of urea‐bearing systems and the design of peptides incorporating urea‐bearing residues with varying side‐chain length.
Successful soft and hard tissue augmentation with platelet‐rich fibrin in combination with bovine bone space maintainer in a delayed implant placement protocol in the esthetic zone: A case report
Authors: Brouwers Joost E. I. G. , Buis Sharon , Haumann Rianne , de Groot Philip Ph. G. , de Laat Bas , Remijn Jasper A.
Published: May 2019

Replacement in the esthetic zone can be very unpredictable and difficult to manage in cases with extreme bone and soft tissue loss. In this case report (2.5‐year follow‐up), we demonstrate that the use of platelet‐rich fibrin in combination with bovine bone can result in a stable, esthetic outcome.
Hybrid Cooling Towers in a Free‐Cooling Application: Modeling and Field Measurement Verification
Authors: Puls Philipp , Lange Christopher , Öchsner Richard
Published: May 2019

The energy‐saving potential of free cooling in chilled‐water systems was investigated. As a preliminary study, simulation was used to quantify the performance of free cooling in a given reference system. To reduce the computational effort for the simulation of long time periods, simplified models for dry and evaporative cooling were developed. The simulation results indicate that free cooling reduces the electric energy demand for cold supply almost by half. In a follow‐up investigation, free cooling was implemented in the reference system. The actual energy savings showed good agreement with the simulation forecasts and confirmed the feasibility of the concept.
Unprecedented Bifunctional Chemistry of Bis(acyl)phosphane Oxides in Aqueous and Alcoholic Media
Authors: Schmallegger Max , Eibel Anna , Menzel Jan P. , Kelterer Anne‐Marie , Zalibera Michal , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher , Grützmacher Hansjörg , Gescheidt Georg
Published: May 2019

Tailor‐made photoinitiators play an important role for efficient radical polymerisations in aqueous media, especially in hydrogel manufacturing. Bis(acyl)phosphane oxides (BAPOs) are among the most active initiators. Herein, we show that they display a remarkable photochemistry in aqueous and alcoholic media: Photolysis of BAPOs in the presence of water or alcohols provides a new delocalized π‐radical, which does not participate in the polymerization. It either converts into a monoacylphosphane oxide acting as a secondary photoactive species or it works as a one‐electron reducing agent. Upon the electron‐transfer process, it again produces a dormant photoinitiator. We have established the structure and the chemistry of this π radical using steady‐state and time‐resolved (CIDEP) EPR together with ESI‐MS, NMR spectroscopy, and DFT calculations. Our results show that bis(acyl)phosphane oxides act as bifunctional reagents when applied in aqueous and alcoholic media.
Shaping a Porphyrinoid Frame by Heteroatoms Extrusion: Formation of an Expanded [22]Triphyrin(6.6.0)
Authors: Pacholska‐Dudziak Ewa , Latos‐Grażyński Lechosław , Białońska Agata
Published: May 2019

An aromatic expanded triphyrin, [22]triphyrin(6.6.0) 2, containing a pyrrole unit, a bipyrrole moiety, and annulene links, was obtained from a tellurium‐containing precursor meso‐tetraaryl‐26,28‐ditellurasapphyrin 1. The reaction path proceeds through an acid‐promoted tellurium extrusion from 1 yielding directly 2, characterized in a dicationic form by X‐ray crystallography. In solution the neutral macrocycle 2 reveals flexibility typical for annulenes and it exists as a mixture of conformers that differ by the configuration of the annulene fragments, as proven by 1H NMR studies and analyzed by DFT methods. The conformation is controlled by protonation state, the nature of an interacting anion, solvent identity, and by interaction with water.
Total Syntheses of (−)‐Secologanin, (−)‐5‐Carboxystrictosidine, and (−)‐Rubenine
Authors: Rakumitsu Kenta , Sakamoto Jukiya , Ishikawa Hayato
Published: May 2019

The first enantioselective total syntheses of (−)‐secologanin (1), (−)‐5‐carboxystrictosidine (2), and (−)‐rubenine (3) were accomplished in 10, 9, and 14 steps, respectively. The key transformation in the synthesis of 1 was a sequential anti‐selective organocatalytic Michael reaction/Fukuyama reduction/spontaneous cyclization to form an optically active dihydropyran ring. In addition, the secologanin tetraacetate (16), which is a potential key intermediate for the bioinspired divergent syntheses of monoterpenoid indole alkaloids, was prepared in gram‐scale in seven steps. The total syntheses of 2 and 3, which are classified as glycosylated monoterpenoid indole alkaloids, were achieved through bioinspired transformations such as a diastereoselective Pictet–Spengler reaction, a site‐ and stereoselective epoxidation, and a site‐selective epoxide ring‐opening followed by a lactonization reaction.
Development of Tetrahydroindazole‐Based Potent and Selective Sigma‐2 Receptor Ligands
Authors: Iyamu Iredia D. , Lv Wei , Malik Neha , Mishra Rama K. , Schiltz Gary E.
Published: May 2019

The sigma‐2 receptor has been shown to play important roles in a number of important diseases, including central nervous system (CNS) disorders and cancer. However, mechanisms by which sigma‐2 contributes to these diseases remain unclear. The development of new sigma‐2 ligands that can be used to probe the function of this protein and potentially as drug discovery leads is therefore of great importance. Herein we report the development of a series of tetrahydroindazole compounds that are highly potent and selective for sigma‐2. Structure–activity relationship data were used to generate a pharmacophore model that summarizes the common features present in the potent ligands. Assays for solubility and microsomal stability showed that several members of this compound series possess promising characteristics for further development of useful chemical probes or drug discovery leads.
Tridimensional mapping of Phox2b expressing neurons in the brainstem of adult Macaca fascicularis and identification of the retrotrapezoid nucleus
Authors: Levy Jonathan , Facchinetti Patricia , Jan Caroline , Achour Mélyna , Bouvier Clément , Brunet Jean‐François , Delzescaux Thierry , Giuliano François
Published: May 2019

Chemosensitivity is a key mechanism for the regulation of breathing in vertebrates. The retrotrapezoid nucleus is a crucial hub for respiratory chemoreception within the brainstem. It integrates chemosensory information that are both peripheral from the carotid bodies (via the nucleus of the solitary tract) and central through the direct sensing of extracellular protons. To date, the location of a genetically defined RTN has only been ascertained in rodents. We first demonstrated that Phox2b, a key determinant for the development of the visceral nervous system and branchiomotor nuclei in the brainstem including the RTN, had a similar distribution in the brainstem of adult macaques compared to adult rats. Second, based on previous description of a specific molecular signature for the RTN in rats, and on an innovative technique for duplex in situ hybridization, we identified parafacial neurons which coexpressed Phox2b and ppGal mRNAs. They were located ventrally to the nucleus of the facial nerve and extended from the caudal part of the nucleus of the superior olive to the rostral tip of the inferior olive. Using the previously described blockface technique, deformations were corrected to allow the proper alignment and stacking of digitized sections, hence providing for the first time a 3D reconstruction of the macaque brainstem, Phox2b distribution and the primate retrotrapezoid nucleus. This description should help bridging the gap between rodents and humans for the description of key respiratory structures in the brainstem.
Statistical issues and methods in designing and analyzing survival studies
Authors: Perera Muditha , Dwivedi Alok Kumar
Published: May 2019

Background

Cancer studies that are designed for early detection and screening, or used for identifying prognostic factors, or assessing treatment efficacy and health outcome are frequently assessed with survival or time‐to‐event outcomes. These studies typically require specific methods of data analysis. Appropriate statistical methods in the context of study design and objectives are required for obtaining reliable results and valid inference. Unfortunately, variable methods for the same study objectives and dubious reporting have been noticed in the survival analysis of oncology research. Applied researchers often face difficulties in selecting appropriate statistical methods due to the complex nature of cancer studies.

Recent findings

In this report, we describe briefly major statistical issues along with related challenges in planning, designing, and analyzing of survival studies. For applied researchers, we provided flow charts for selecting appropriate statistical methods. Various available statistical procedures in common statistical packages for applying survival analysis were classified according to different objectives of the study. In addition, an illustration of the statistical analysis of some common types of time‐to‐event outcomes was shown with STATA codes.

Conclusions

We anticipate that this review article assists oncology researchers in understanding important statistical concepts involved in survival analysis and appropriately select the statistical approaches for survival analysis studies. Overall, the review may help in improving designing, conducting, analyzing, and reporting of data in survival studies.
Opcode sequence analysis of Android malware by a convolutional neural network
Authors: Li Dan , Zhao Lichao , Cheng Qingfeng , Lu Ning , Shi Wenbo
Published: May 2019

The number of malware has exploded due to the openness of the Android platform, and the endless stream of malware poses a threat to the privacy, tariffs, and device of mobile phone users. A novel Android mobile malware detection system is proposed, which employs an optimized deep convolutional neural network to learn from opcode sequences. The optimized convolutional neural network is trained multiple times by the raw opcode sequences extracted from the decompiled Android file, so that the feature information can be effectively learned and the malicious program can be detected more accurately. More critically, the k‐max pooling method with better results is adopted in the pooling operation phase, which improves the detection effect of the proposed method. The experimental results show that the detection system achieved the accuracy of 99%, which is 2%‐11% higher than the accuracy of the machine learning detection algorithms when using the same data set. It also ensures that the indicators, such as F1‐score, recall, and precision, are maintained above 97%. Based on the detection system, a multi–data set comparison experiment is carried out. The introduced k‐max pooling is deeply studied, and the effect of k of k‐max pooling on the overall detection effect is observed.
Compression‐based steganography
Authors: Carpentieri Bruno , Castiglione Arcangelo , De Santis Alfredo , Palmieri Francesco , Pizzolante Raffaele
Published: May 2019

Conventional privacy‐enforcement mechanisms, such as encryption‐based ones, are frequently used to prevent third‐party eavesdroppers to intercept confidential information exchanged between two or more parties. However, the use of such mechanisms can be perceivable and it alerts the involved intercepting entities that could devote some effort in trying to remove the protection, eg, by cracking the encryption keys used or by exploiting the vulnerabilities of the technological solution used to protect the data. Sometimes, from the security point of view, avoiding to draw the attention or suspect to intermediate intercepting entities, may be better than protecting a data in a conventional manner. In such direction, one of the most effective approaches is hiding the secret information to be exchanged inside other data, through steganographic techniques. In this work, we exploit, for this specific purpose, the hierarchical structure of a compressed archive, as well as the algorithms and parameters used to create and maintain such archive. It is important to point out that, by doing this, the secret information is in no way semantically related to the contents of the compressed archive. This can be extremely useful in many cloud‐based situations where several confidential data is moved across multiple independent data center, which are under the control of different and not always fully trusted authorities. The effectiveness of this proposal has been assessed by using a properly designed and implemented prototype, where extensive tests have been performed within the context of a proof‐of‐concept.
Analytical Methods for Quantitative Plasma Carnitine Determination
Authors: Zimmerman Chelsea N. , Sharer J. Daniel
Published: May 2019

Carnitine is an essential molecule for mitochondrial beta‐oxidation of long‐chain fatty acids and other cellular functions. Several rare, inherited disorders of carnitine metabolism occur in humans, and secondary carnitine deficiency is an important feature in a variety of clinical settings. Many of these conditions can be detected via quantitative analysis of free and esterified carnitine in plasma or urine, which thus offers an effective means for assessing the transport and initial processing of fatty acids. Here, we describe some of the methods most commonly employed for quantification of plasma carnitine and consider some of the advantages and disadvantages of these approaches. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Culturally modified cognitive processing therapy for Karen refugees with posttraumatic stress disorder: A pilot study
Authors: Bernardi Jessica , Dahiya Mini , Jobson Laura
Published: May 2019

Karen refugees, many originating from Myanmar, have suffered one of the longest civil wars in history and have thus witnessed and experienced substantial trauma. Refugees from Myanmar are currently one of the largest refugee groups being resettled in Western countries. This study investigated the feasibility and acceptability of a modified cognitive processing therapy (CPT) group program for Karen refugees with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD; N =7). It was found that the CPT program was well accepted, with high satisfaction and no drop‐outs. At posttreatment all participants no longer met PTSD diagnostic criteria and had a reliable improvement in PTSD symptoms when compared with pretreatment scores. At 3‐month follow‐up four participants (57% of sample) did not meet PTSD diagnostic criteria and three participants (43%) had a reliable improvement in PTSD symptoms when compared with pretreatment scores. However, at follow‐up four participants (57% of the sample) had a reliable worsening in PTSD symptoms when compared with their posttreatment PTSD symptom levels. Although the study found that the modified CPT was acceptable and feasible, future research is needed to develop and enhance strategies to ensure that refugees benefit from empirically supported treatments.
NiCo2O4 Particles with Facile PPy Modification as an Anode Material for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Luo Dawei , Zhao Ning , Wu Jieda , Ni Yongji , Wang Chengcheng , Cao Yulin
Published: May 2019

A novel structure of “sea urchin‐like” NiCo2O4 particles coated with a PPy protection layer is successfully synthesized via a hydrothermal method combined with a subsequent in situ polymerization. As a potential anode material for Li‐ion batteries, the as‐prepared NiCo2O4@PPy nanocomposite exhibits a high initial discharge capacity of 1524.1 mAh·g−1 and still maintains a wonderful reversible capacity of 955.6 mAh·g−1 over 100 cycles at a current density of 100 mA·g−1, and it also delivers a very stable reversible capacity of 541 mAh·g−1 even at a high current density up to 1000 mA·g−1. The excellent cyclability and rate capability of the composite might be ascribed to the unique architecture of NiCo2O4 particles, especially for the in situ polymerized PPy conductive protection layers, which not only promote the anode material's conductivity, but also protect the inner NiCo2O4 particles from mechanical damage in the process of discharging and charging. The present work indicates that PPy modification could be an effective direction to improve the electrochemical properties of anode with poor conductivity.
Impact of disturbed areas on Theraphosidae spiders diversity (Araneae) and first population data of Grammostola rosea (Walckenaer) in Panul Park
Authors: Aguilera Milenko A. , Montenegro V. Rubén , Casanueva María Eugenia
Published: May 2019

Soil fauna constitutes one of the most abundant and richest environments on earth (Coleman et al. 2004, Fundamentals of solil ecology, 2nd ed. Elsevier Academic Press, London, UK). Different degrees of soil disturbance can affect arthropod diversity, which allows a correlation of biodiversity to quality of habitat. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of habitat on Theraphosidae spiders, with special focus on Grammostola rosea. Slight differences in the diversity of Theraphosidae between the disturbed area of Cerro Huechuraba and the undisturbed Panul Park were found. However, a high dominance of G. rosea was observed in both study areas. G. rosea density 1,350 ind/ha in Panul Park, and 750 ind/ha in Cerro Huechuraba. UPGMA cluster analysis did not show significant differences between established environments. A standard methodology to develop inventories of Theraphosidae was proposed. The distribution of G. rosea and its natural history were reported.
Interbreeding between local and translocated populations of a cleaner fish in an experimental mesocosm predicts risk of disrupted local adaptation
Authors: Blanco Gonzalez Enrique , Espeland Sigurd H. , Jentoft Sissel , Hansen Michael M. , Robalo Joana I. , Stenseth Nils C. , Jorde Per Erik
Published: May 2019

Translocation of organisms within or outside its native range carries the risk of modifying the community of the recipient ecosystems and induces gene flow between locally adapted populations or closely related species. In this study, we evaluated the genetic consequences of large‐scale translocation of cleaner wrasses that has become a common practice within the salmon aquaculture industry in northern Europe to combat sea lice infestation. A major concern with this practice is the potential for hybridization of escaped organisms with the local, recipient wrasse population, and thus potentially introduce exogenous alleles and breaking down coadapted gene complexes in local populations. We investigated the potential threat for such genetic introgressions in a large seminatural mesocosm basin. The experimental setting represented a simulated translocation of corkwing wrasse (Symphodus melops) that occurs on a large scale in the Norwegian salmon industry. Parentage assignment analysis of mesocosm's offspring revealed 30% (195 out of 651 offspring) interbreeding between the two populations, despite their being genetically (FST = 0.094, p < 0.05) and phenotypically differentiated. Moreover, our results suggest that reproductive fitness of the translocated western population doubled that of the local southern population. Our results confirm that human translocations may overcome the impediments imposed by natural habitat discontinuities and urge for immediate action to manage the genetic resources of these small benthic wrasses.
Organocatalyzed Enantioselective Decarboxylative Mannich Reaction of β‐Ketoacids with Pyrazolinone Ketimines for the Construction of Chiral β‐Amino Ketone‐Pyrazolinone Derivatives
Authors: Zhou Yang , You Yong , Wang Zhen‐Hua , Zhang Xiao‐Mei , Xu Xiao‐Ying , Yuan Wei‐Cheng
Published: May 2019

An organocatalytic enantioselective decarboxylative Mannich reaction of pyrazolin‐5‐one derived ketimines with β‐ketoacids using quinine‐derived bifunctional squaramide as a catalyst has been developed. With the developed protocol, a series of chiral β‐amino ketone‐pyrazolinone derivatives were obtained in excellent yields (up to 99 %) with good enantioselectivities (up to 94:6 er). The enantioselective decarboxylative aldol reaction of pyrazole‐4,5‐dione with β‐ketoacids was also realized under the standard reaction conditions.
Efficient Synthesis, Structural Characterization, and Optical Properties of 6H‐Dibenzo[b,h]carbazole and Its Derivatives
Authors: Matsumura Mio , Kawahata Masatoshi , Muranaka Atsuya , Hiraiwa Miyuki , Yamaguchi Kentaro , Uchiyama Masanobu , Yasuike Shuji
Published: May 2019

Herein, we describe a practical method for the preparation of the 6H‐dibenzo[b,h]carbazole scaffold by utilizing a Pd‐catalyzed intramolecular amination of 3‐amino‐3′‐bromo‐2,2′‐binaphthyl. X‐ray analysis revealed that the naphthalene wings of the 6H‐dibenzo[b,h]carbazole ring are slightly bent. This compound shows a greater λmax and λem red‐shift and a smaller HOMO‐LUMO gap than the 9H‐carbazole. Furthermore, derivatization on the nitrogen atom provided a series of derivatives, whose optical properties were compared.
Metal‐Free Synthesis of Polycyclic Quinazolinones Enabled by a (NH4)2S2O8‐Promoted Intramolecular Oxidative Cyclization
Authors: Xie Lijuan , Lu Cong , Jing Dong , Ou Xinrui , Zheng Ke
Published: May 2019

An efficient metal‐free, (NH4)2S2O8 mediated intramolecular oxidative cyclization for the construction of polycyclic heterocycles was disclosed. A series of polycyclic quinazolinone derivatives with good functional group tolerance were obtained in high yields. The natural products tryptanthrin and rutaecarpine, as well as their derivatives, were easily synthesized by this strategy. A preliminary mechanism study suggested the carbon‐centered radical was involved in the catalytic cycle.