bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A nanofibrous bilayered scaffold for tissue engineering of small‐diameter blood vessels
Authors: Kharazi Anousheh Zargar , Atari Mehdi , Vatankhah Elham , Javanmard Shaghayegh Haghjooy
Published: September 2018

The main challenge encountered in clinical efficacy of tissue engineered vascular grafts is development of a biomimetic scaffold. To establish a scaffold resembling the architecture of the native blood vessels, a bilayered small‐diameter nanofibrous tubular scaffold was fabricated by sequential electrospinning process. The inner layer of the scaffold was electrospun from a blend of fast degrading poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS), a hydrophilic and elastomeric polymer, and slowly degrading polycaprolactone (PCL), with a weight ratio of 2:1, while the outer layer was electrospun using PCL. Our findings elucidated that nanofibrous PCL outer layer can improve the mechanical integrity and at the same time the presence of PGS within the nanofibers of the inner layer provides a nonthrombogenic interface. Additionally, electrospun PGS/PCL nanofibers with an appropriate balance between hydrophilic and hydrophobic characteristics served a suitable substrate for adhesion and proliferation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs); meanwhile, sufficient pore size provided by the inner layer facilitated cell infiltration into the interior of the scaffold.
Dissipative particle dynamics investigation of demulsification process and mechanism of comb‐like block polyether
Authors: Hu Cun , Liu Shuai , Fang ShenWen , Xiang WenJun , Duan Ming
Published: September 2018

Chemical demulsification is the most frequently used demulsification method. Various experimental approaches have been developed to investigate the demulsification process and the demulsification mechanism. This paper designed three different hydrophobic monomer composition of comb‐like block polyether demulsifiers, and the demulsification process and demulsification mechanism of comb‐like block polyether demulsifier in crude oil emulsions were studied by dissipative particle dynamics simulation. The demulsification process can be described as follows: (1) flocculation stage; (2) coalescence stage. The coalescence constant has a great effect on the demulsification efficiency. Radial distribution function reflects the emulsion, crude oil asphaltenes, and glials interactions exist. As demulsification progresses, the root mean square end‐to‐end distance increases significantly with time, which indicates a long chain polymer adsorbed at the interface with the free stretching configuration. Consequently, the demulsifiers will “replace” the asphaltenes at the interface, forming an “open network” which leads to a higher possibility of droplet–droplet coalescence.
Very long‐term molecular follow‐up of minimal residual disease in patients with neuroblastoma
Authors: Tchirkov Andrei , Greze Victoria , Plantaz Dominique , Rouel Nadège , Vago Philippe , Kanold Justyna
Published: September 2018

In high‐risk neuroblastoma (HR‐NB), the clinical significance of long‐term minimal residual disease (MRD) monitoring using quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR) for neuroblastoma mRNAs has not been investigated. We report long‐term MRD follow‐ups of four patients with HR‐NB throughout the disease (diagnosis, remission, and relapse) and treatment course (chemotherapy, autologous and allogeneic stem cell transplantation, and donor lymphocyte and natural killer cell infusions). The results showed the stability of mRNA marker expression after different treatments and demonstrated their validity to predict relapse and assess therapeutic response. This opens up the possibility of investigating the utility of long‐term molecular monitoring of MRD in prospective multicenter studies.
New Food and Drug Administration–Approved and Emerging Novel Treatment Options for Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Click Zach R. , Seddon Amanda N. , Bae Young R. , Fisher Justin D. , Ogunniyi Adebayo
Published: September 2018

Advancements in the treatment of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) have been sparse during the past several decades, and the disease continues to have a poor prognosis. However, in 2017 alone, four new medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of AML reached the market. Midostaurin, liposomal cytarabine and daunorubicin, enasidenib, and gemtuzumab ogozamicin all showed benefit in respective clinical trials to gain approval for the treatment of AML in various patient populations. Additionally, many phase II and III clinical trials are currently ongoing to assess the safety and efficacy of other potential therapies for the treatment of AML. In this review, we summarize the results of the landmark clinical trials associated with the newly approved agents as well as the current ongoing clinical trials for the treatment of AML. A literature search was performed to retrieve data on agents currently being studied for use. Although the overall prognosis for patients with AML remains poor, the addition of the newly FDA‐approved medications is a step in the right direction for a disease state that has proved difficult to treat.
Formation of Heterotypic Amyloids: α‐Synuclein in Co‐Aggregation
Authors: Bhasne Karishma , Mukhopadhyay Samrat
Published: September 2018

Protein misfolding resulting in the formation of ordered amyloid aggregates is associated with a number of devastating human diseases. Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) do not autonomously fold up into a unique stable conformation and remain as an ensemble of rapidly fluctuating conformers. Many IDPs are prone to convert into the β‐rich amyloid state. One such amyloidogenic IDP is α‐synuclein that is involved in Parkinson's disease. Recent studies have indicated that other neuronal proteins, especially IDPs, can co‐aggregate with α‐synuclein in many pathological ailments. This article describes several such observations highlighting the role of heterotypic protein–protein interactions in the formation of hetero‐amyloids. It is believed that the characterizations of molecular cross talks between amyloidogenic proteins as well as the mechanistic studies of heterotypic protein aggregation will allow us to decipher the role of the interacting proteins in amyloid proteomics.
All Cats are Gray in the Dark: Enrichment/Depletion Approaches for Biomarker Discovery on Felis catus Plasma
Authors: Carcangiu Laura , Pisanu Salvatore , Tore Silvia , Addis Maria Filippa , Zini Eric , Uzzau Sergio , Pagnozzi Daniela
Published: September 2018

In veterinary medicine, assay performance is often affected by the lack of species‐specific diagnostic tools. Reliable biomarkers might be identified by investigating biological fluids of the species of interest, but protein sequence databases are often incomplete and human‐specific devices for reducing sample complexity might fail when applied to animal plasma. Here, seven commercial methods based on different capturing agents (anti‐human antibodies, affinity ligands, mixture of antibodies and ligands, and combinatorial peptide ligand libraries) are applied to cat plasma and evaluated in terms of yield, identified proteins/ peptides, and relative abundance by high‐resolution shotgun proteomics and label‐free quantitation. As a result, anti‐human antibody‐based methods are unsatisfactory. Most fail in reducing albumin and immunoglobulins, and some lead to a substantial removal of other highly abundant proteins, probably because of nonspecific interactions. A protein A/dye ligand‐based method is efficient in reducing immunoglobulins, fibrinogen, and apolipoprotein A1 and A2, but not albumin, and protein identifications do not increase. Only peptide ligand libraries flatten the dynamic range, and increased protein identification (59.0%). Albumin and immunoglobulins are successfully depleted (60.7% and 35.9%, respectively). Although further studies will be required for reinforcing our observations, this work can provide a useful guide for cat plasma pretreatment in biomarker discovery studies.
MaSS‐Simulator: A Highly Configurable Simulator for Generating MS/MS Datasets for Benchmarking of Proteomics Algorithms
Authors: Awan Muaaz Gul , Saeed Fahad
Published: September 2018

Mass Spectrometry (MS)‐based proteomics has become an essential tool in the study of proteins. With the advent of modern MS machines huge amounts of data is being generated, which can only be processed by novel algorithmic tools. However, in the absence of data benchmarks and ground truth datasets algorithmic integrity testing and reproducibility is a challenging problem. To this end, MaSS‐Simulator has been presented, which is an easy to use simulator and can be configured to simulate MS/MS datasets for a wide variety of conditions with known ground truths. MaSS‐Simulator offers many configuration options to allow the user a great degree of control over the test datasets, which can enable rigorous and large‐ scale testing of any proteomics algorithm. MaSS‐Simulator is assessed by comparing its performance against experimentally generated spectra and spectra obtained from NIST collections of spectral library. The results show that MaSS‐Simulator generated spectra match closely with real‐spectra and have a relative‐error distribution centered around 25%. In contrast, the theoretical spectra for same peptides have relative‐error distribution centered around 150%. MaSS‐Simulator will enable developers to specifically highlight the capabilities of their algorithms and provide a strong proof of any pitfalls they might face. Source code, executables, and a user manual for MaSS‐Simulator can be downloaded from https://github.com/pcdslab/MaSS-Simulator.
A Critical Survey of Dithiocarbamate Reversible Addition‐Fragmentation Chain Transfer (RAFT) Agents in Radical Polymerization
Authors: Moad Graeme
Published: September 2018

This article provides a critical review of the properties, synthesis, and applications of dithiocarbamates Z′Z″NC(=S)SR as mediators in reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization. These are among the most versatile RAFT agents. Through choice of substituents on nitrogen (Z′, Z″), the polymerization of most monomer types can be controlled to provide living characteristics (i.e., low dispersities, high end‐group fidelity, and access to complex architectures). These include the more activated monomers (MAMs; e.g., styrenes and acrylates) and the less activated monomers (LAMs; e.g., vinyl esters and vinylamides). Dithiocarbamates with balanced activity (e.g., 1H‐pyrazole‐1‐carbodithioates) or switchable RAFT agents [e.g., a N‐methyl‐N‐(4‐pyridinyl)dithiocarbamate] allow control MAMs and LAMs with a single RAFT agent and provide a pathway to low‐dispersity poly(MAM)‐block‐poly(LAM). © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 216–227
Digital PCR After MALDI–Mass Spectrometry Imaging to Combine Proteomic Mapping and Identification of Activating Mutations in Pulmonary Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kazdal Daniel , Longuespée Rémi , Dietz Steffen , Casadonte Rita , Schwamborn Kristina , Volckmar Anna‐Lena , Kriegsmann Jörg , Kriegsmann Katharina , Fresnais Margaux , Stenzinger Albrecht , Sültmann Holger , Warth Arne , Kriegsmann Mark
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI–MSI) is a powerful tool to analyze the spatial distribution of peptides in tissues. Digital PCR (dPCR) is a method to reliably detect genetic mutations. Biopsy material is often limited due to minimally invasive techniques, but information on diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction is required for subsequent clinical decision making. Thus, saving tissue material during diagnostic workup is highly warranted for best patient care. The possibility to combine proteomic analysis by MALDI–MSI and mutational analysis by dPCR from the same tissue section is evaluated.

Experimental design

Ten 0.5 × 0.5 cm formalin‐fixed paraffin embedded tissue samples of pulmonary adenocarcinomas with known EGFR or KRAS mutations are analyzed by MALDI–MSI. Subsequently, DNA is extracted from the analyzed tissue material and tested for the respective driver mutation by dPCR.

Results

Detection of driver gene mutations after MALDI MSI analysis is successful in all analyzed samples. Determined mutant allele frequencies are in good agreement with values assessed from untreated serial tissue sections with a mean absolute deviation of 0.16.

Conclusion and clinical relevance

It has been demonstrated that MALDI–MSI can be combined with genetic analysis, like dPCR. Workflows enabling the subsequent analysis of proteomic and genetic markers are particularly promising for the analysis of limited sample material such as biopsy specimen.
In MALDI–Mass Spectrometry Imaging on Formalin‐Fixed Paraffin‐Embedded Tissue Specimen Section Thickness Significantly Influences m/z Peak Intensity
Authors: Longuespée Rémi , Kriegsmann Katharina , Cremer Martin , Zgorzelski Christiane , Casadonte Rita , Kazdal Daniel , Kriegsmann Jörg , Weichert Wilko , Schwamborn Kristina , Fresnais Margaux , Schirmacher Peter , Kriegsmann Mark
Published: September 2018

Background

In matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization–mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI–MSI) standardized sample preparation is important to obtain reliable results. Herein, the impact of section thickness in formalin‐fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue microarrays (TMA) on spectral intensities is investigated.

Patients and methods

TMAs consisting of ten different tissues represented by duplicates of ten patients (n = 200 cores) are cut at 1, 3, and 5 μm. MSI analysis is performed and mean intensities of all evaluable cores are extracted. Measurements are merged and mean m/z intensities are compared.

Results

Visual inspection of spectral intensities between 1, 3, and 5 μm reveals generally higher intensities in thinner tissue sections. Specifically, higher intensities are observed in the vast majority of peaks (98.6%, p < 0.01) in 1 μm compared with 5 μm sections. Note that 28.4% and 2.1% of m/z values exhibit a at least two‐ and threefold intensity difference (p < 0.01) in 1 μm compared to 5 μm sections, respectively.

Conclusion

A section thickness of 1 μm results in higher spectral intensities compared with 5 μm. The results highlight the importance of standardized protocols in light of recent efforts to identify clinically relevant biomarkers using MSI. The use of TMAs for comparative analysis seems advantageous, as section thickness displays less variability.
Prediction of GABARAP interaction with the GABA type A receptor
Authors: Irwin B.W.J. , Vukovič Siniša , Payne M.C. , ElGamacy Mohammad , Chau P.‐L.
Published: September 2018

We have performed docking simulations on GABARAP interacting with the GABA type A receptor using SwarmDock. We have also used a novel method to study hydration sites on the surface of these two proteins; this method identifies regions around proteins where desolvation is relatively easy, and these are possible locations where proteins can bind each other. There is a high degree of consistency between the predictions of these two methods. Moreover, we have also identified binding sites on GABARAP for other proteins, and listed possible binding sites for as yet unknown proteins on both GABARAP and the GABA type A receptor intracellular domain.
TKSA‐MC: A web server for rational mutation through the optimization of protein charge interactions
Authors: Contessoto Vinícius G. , de Oliveira Vinícius M. , Fernandes Bruno R. , Slade Gabriel G. , Leite Vitor B. P.
Published: September 2018

The TKSAMC is a web server which calculates protein charge–charge interactions via the Tanford–Kirkwood Surface Accessibility model with the Monte Carlo method for sampling different protein protonation states. The optimization of charge–charge interactions via directed mutations has successfully enhanced the thermal stability of different proteins and could be a key to protein engineering improvement. The server presents the electrostatic free energy contribution of each polar‐charged residue to the protein native state stability. Specific residues are suggested to be mutated for improving thermal stability. The choice of a residue is based on its fraction of side chain exposed to solvent and its positive free energy contribution, which tends to destabilize the protein native state. Any residue energy contribution can be shown as a function of pH condition. The web server is freely available at UNESP (São Paulo State University ‐ DF/IBILCE): http://tksamc.df.ibilce.unesp.br and also on GitHub https://github.com/contessoto/tksamc.
TiN Interlayers with Varied Thickness in Cu2ZnSnS(e)4 Thin Film Solar Cells: Effect on Na Diffusion, Back Contact Stability, and Performance
Authors: Englund Sven , Grini Sigbjørn , Donzel‐Gargand Olivier , Paneta Valentina , Kosyak Volodymyr , Primetzhofer Daniel , Scragg Jonathan J. S. , Platzer‐Björkman Charlotte
Published: September 2018

In this study, interlayers with varied thickness of TiN between Cu2ZnSnS(e)4 (CZTS(e)) absorbers and Mo on soda‐lime glass substrates are investigated for CZTS(e) thin film solar cells. Na diffusion is analyzed using Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry and it is found that the use of thick TiN interlayers facilitates Na diffusion into the absorbers. The CZTS(e)/TiN/Mo interfaces are scrutinized using Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) Electron Energy Loss Spectroscopy (EELS). It is found that diffusion of chalcogens present in the precursor occurs through openings, resulting from surface roughness in the Mo, in the otherwise chemically stable TiN interlayers, forming point contacts of MoS(e)2. It is further established that both chalcogens and Mo diffuse along the TiN interlayer grain boundaries. Solar cell performance for sulfur‐annealed samples improved with increased thickness of TiN, and with a 200 nm TiN interlayer, the solar cell performance is comparable to a typical Mo reference. Pure TiN bulk contacts are investigated and shown to work, but the performance is still inferior to the TiN interlayer back contacts. The use of thick TiN interlayers offers a pathway to achieve high efficiency CZTS(e) solar cells on highly inert back contacts.
Management of rifampicin mono‐resistant tuberculosis in Queensland, Australia: a retrospective case series
Authors: Gibson Justine , Donnan Ellen , Eather Geoffrey
Published: September 2018

Rifampicin mono‐resistant tuberculosis (RMR‐TB) is rare worldwide; however, it is associated with poor treatment outcomes. Evidence to guide the treatment of RMR‐TB is lacking. International guidelines have recently changed and now recommend that RMR‐TB should be managed with multi‐drug‐resistant tuberculosis (MDR‐TB) regimens. This report is a retrospective review of all cases of RMR‐TB in Queensland, Australia, from 2000 to 2016 to assess treatment outcomes and regimens used. Twelve cases of RMR‐TB were diagnosed, with seven patients completing treatment in Queensland. This study confirms that RMR‐TB is rare in Queensland. Generally extended regimens with first‐line agents +/− a fluoroquinolone were used, and all patients who completed treatment in Queensland had successful outcomes.
Mycoplasma hominis empyema following caesarean section
Authors: Yamazoe Masatoshi , Tomioka Hiromi , Yamashita Shuji , Egami Kazusa , Oh Kouji
Published: September 2018

Mycoplasma hominis as a cause of empyema is rare. We report a case of empyema caused by M. hominis following a caesarean section. A 28‐year‐old woman at 39 weeks and one day of pregnancy was admitted to our hospital and underwent an emergency caesarean section because of premature rupture of membranes. On postoperative day 2, she developed a fever, and flomoxef was administered. A pleural effusion developed on the right side. A diagnosis of empyema was made, and sulbactam/ampicillin was administered. However, the patient’s clinical condition did not improve. Numerous small pinpoint colonies, which did not yield visible bacteria on a Gram stain, were observed on a plate of pleural fluid culture, and M. hominis empyema was suspected. Based on this result, antibiotic therapy was switched to clindamycin, and the patient’s clinical condition improved rapidly. M. hominis was detected in the pleural fluid by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. M. hominis should be considered a causative pathogen for empyema following a caesarean section.
A novel augmented reality (AR) scheme for knee replacement surgery by considering cutting error accuracy
Authors: Pokhrel Suraj , Alsadoon Abeer , Prasad P. W. C. , Paul Manoranjan
Published: September 2018

Background

Augmented reality (AR) surgery has not been successfully implemented in knee replacement surgery due to the negative effect of cutting errors. This research aims to decrease the cutting error to reduce the chronic pain after knee replacement.

Methodology

The proposed system consists of a volume subtraction technique that considers the history of the area that has been cut and measures it against the target shape.

Results

Results minimized the cutting error by about 1 mm. Therefore, it provides a significant video accuracy improvement in alignment to 0.40 to 0.55 mm from 0.55 to 0.64 and a decrease in processing time from 12 to 13 fs/s to 9 to10 fs/s.

Conclusion

The proposed system is focused on overlaying only the remaining areas of surgery that need to be completed. Finally, this study solves the issues of navigation with AR when cutting bones in a scheduled direction and depth.
Tunneling of the hard‐core model on finite triangular lattices
Authors: Zocca Alessandro
Published: September 2018

We consider the hard‐core model on finite triangular lattices with Metropolis dynamics. Under suitable conditions on the triangular lattice sizes, this interacting particle system has 3 maximum‐occupancy configurations and we investigate its high‐fugacity behavior by studying tunneling times, that is, the first hitting times between these maximum‐occupancy configurations, and the mixing time. The proof method relies on the analysis of the corresponding state space using geometrical and combinatorial properties of the hard‐core configurations on finite triangular lattices, in combination with known results for first hitting times of Metropolis Markov chains in the equivalent zero‐temperature limit. In particular, we show how the order of magnitude of the expected tunneling times depends on the triangular lattice sizes in the low‐temperature regime and prove the asymptotic exponentiality of the rescaled tunneling time leveraging the intrinsic symmetry of the state space.
Concise Review: Molecular Cytogenetics and Quality Control: Clinical Guardians for Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Rohani Leili , Johnson Adiv A. , Naghsh Pooyan , Rancourt Derrick E. , Ulrich Henning , Holland Heidrun
Published: September 2018

Now that induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based transplants have been performed in humans and organizations have begun producing clinical-grade iPSCs, it is imperative that strict quality control standards are agreed upon. This is essential as both ESCs and iPSCs have been shown to accumulate genomic aberrations during long-term culturing. These aberrations can include copy number variations, trisomy, amplifications of chromosomal regions, deletions of chromosomal regions, loss of heterozygosity, and epigenetic abnormalities. Moreover, although the differences between iPSCs and ESCs appear largely negligible when a high enough n number is used for comparison, the reprogramming process can generate further aberrations in iPSCs, including copy number variations and deletions in tumor-suppressor genes. If mutations or epigenetic signatures are present in parental cells, these can also be carried over into iPSCs. To maximize patient safety, we recommend a set of standards to be utilized when preparing iPSCs for clinical use. Reprogramming methods that do not involve genomic integration should be used. Cultured cells should be grown using feeder-free and serum-free systems to avoid animal contamination. Karyotyping, whole-genome sequencing, gene expression analyses, and standard sterility tests should all become routine quality control tests. Analysis of mitochondrial DNA integrity, whole-epigenome analyses, as well as single-cell genome sequencing of large cell populations may also prove beneficial. Furthermore, clinical-grade stem cells need to be produced under accepted regulatory good manufacturing process standards. The creation of haplobanks that provide major histocompatibility complex matching is also recommended to improve allogeneic stem cell engraftment.
Iterative deconvolution using the MRI model for removing experimental broadening and shift effects in SIMS depth profiles
Authors: Boulsina Fayçal , Gautier Brice
Published: September 2018

During the last years, depth resolution of secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) has been enhanced, mainly by solving direct and inverse problems of depth profiling. The solution of both problems is based on the depth resolution function (DRF). Solving the direct problem is frequently done by using the DRF of the Mixing‐Roughness‐Information depth (MRI) model, and solving the inverse problem is frequently achieved by using the DRF proposed by Dowsett and coworkers. However, using the latter may create difficulties in determining the true position of the measured profiles. In this paper, it is proposed to solve iteratively the inverse problem of SIMS depth profiling using the analytical DRF of the MRI model. The iterative deconvolution using the MRI model is tested on theoretical and experimental profiles. It is shown that the proposed procedure is able to provide a non‐negligible improvement; the artificial broadening of the measured profiles is clearly reduced, and their shift from the actual positions is corrected.
Recent Progress of Janus 2D Transition Metal Chalcogenides: From Theory to Experiments
Authors: Li Ruiping , Cheng Yingchun , Huang Wei
Published: September 2018

Since the discovery of graphene, 2D materials with various properties have gained increasing attention in fields such as novel electronic, optic, spintronic, and valleytronic devices. As an important derivative of 2D materials, Janus 2D materials, such as Janus transition metal chalcogenides (TMDs), have become a research hot spot in recent years. Janus 2D materials with mirror asymmetry display novel properties, such as the Rashba effect and normal piezoelectric polarization, providing great promise for their application in sensors, actuators, and other electromechanical devices. Here, the current theoretical and experimental progresses made in the development of Janus 2D TMDs, including their structure and stability, electronic properties, fabrication, and the results of their characterization are reported. Finally, the future prospects for the further development of Janus 2D materials are considered.
Size‐Controlled Nanoparticle Clusters of Narrow Size‐Polydispersity Formed Using Multiple Particle Types Through Competitive Stabilizer Desorption to a Liquid–Liquid Interface
Authors: Fox Eoin K. , El Haddassi Fadwa , Hierrezuelo Jose , Ninjbadgar Tsedev , Stolarczyk Jacek K. , Merlin Jenny , Brougham Dermot F.
Published: September 2018

A novel colloidal approach is presented for preparing fully dispersed nanoparticle (NP) assemblies (clusters) of narrow size‐polydispersity over a wide range of sizes through irreversible depletion of stabilizing ligands onto a liquid–liquid interface. Unusually, the relative monodispersity of the assemblies continuously improves throughout the process. A detailed kinetics study into the assembly of iron oxide NP clusters shows that the assembly rate decreases with NP concentration, pinpointing the role of the interface in size focusing. A new protocol for identifying initial conditions that enable controlled assembly is described, which allows extension of the approach to multiple NP types, opening up a general route to colloidally processed materials. The process uses cheap materials, it is reproducible, robust, and scaleable, and it allows for selection of both particle and cluster size. In the case of assemblies of magnetic iron oxide NPs, these advantages enable tuning of the magnetic properties of the assemblies for applications such as magnetically targetable MRI‐trackable agents in biomedicine.
Microstructural Degradation of Ni‐Rich Li[NixCoyMn1−x−y]O2 Cathodes During Accelerated Calendar Aging
Authors: Ryu Hoon‐Hee , Park Geon‐Tae , Yoon Chong S. , Sun Yang‐Kook
Published: September 2018

Because electric vehicles (EVs) are used intermittently with long resting periods in the fully charged state before driving, calendar aging behavior is an important criterion for the application of Li‐ion batteries used in EVs. In this work, Ni‐rich Li[NixCoyMn1−x−y]O2 (x = 0.8 and 0.9) cathode materials with high energy densities, but low cycling stabilities are investigated to characterize their microstructural degradation during accelerated calendar aging. Although the particles seem to maintain their crystal structures and morphologies, the microcracks which develop during calendar aging remain even in the fully discharged state. An NiO‐like phase rock‐salt structure of tens of nanometers in thickness accumulates on the surfaces of the primary particles through parasitic reactions with the electrolyte. In addition, the passive layer of this rock‐salt structure near the microcracks is gradually exfoliated from the primary particles, exposing fresh surfaces containing Ni4+ to the electrolyte. Interestingly, the interior primary particles near the microcracks have deteriorated more severely than the outer particles. The microstructural degradation is worsened with increasing Ni contents in the cathode materials, directly affecting electrochemical performances such as the reversible capacities and voltage profiles.
Direct Visualization of Grain Boundaries in 2D Monolayer WS2 via Induced Growth of CdS Nanoparticle Chains
Authors: Lan Changyong , Li Dapan , Zhou Ziyao , Yip SenPo , Zhang Heng , Shu Lei , Wei Renjie , Dong Ruoting , Ho Johnny C.
Published: September 2018

To date, wafer‐scale synthesis of two‐dimensional (2D) materials are well achieved by chemical vapor deposition, but the obtained monolayers typically have multidomains with electrical and optoelectronic properties affected by grain boundaries and domain sizes. When these 2D materials are used as the growth templates, these boundaries would also provide unknown influences to the successive heterostructure formation for extended applications. Here, for the first time, direct visualization of grain boundaries in monolayer WS2 film can be realized by the growth of CdS nanoparticles. Specifically, CdS is found to first preferentially nucleate and form as nanoparticle chains along WS2 grain boundaries in a random manner, independent of the grain boundary characteristics. Due to electron scattering and type II band alignment at the WS2–CdS heterojunction, WS2 reduces in its mobility while becoming enhanced in its electron concentration. Notably, the WS2–CdS heterostructure also yields improved carrier separation and collection for the photodetection performance enhancement. All these results can facilitate the detailed evaluation of crystalline grains‐related information of 2D materials and provide thorough understanding on the effect of these overgrown CdS on underlying WS2 monolayers, being extremely important to further optimize and enable their functionalities for advanced device applications.
Sunlight‐Induced Photo‐Thermochromic Supramolecular Nanocomposite Hydrogel Film for Energy‐Saving Smart Window
Authors: Xu Zuqiang , Wang Sai , Hu Xiao‐Yu , Jiang Juli , Sun Xiaoqiang , Wang Leyong
Published: September 2018

An ideal energy‐saving smart window can not only provide a comfortable indoor temperature to avoid energy consumption of air‐conditioning but also require low energy consumption for the material itself. However, current studies on smart windows either need extra consumption of electric and heat energy for switching or still face some challenges such as high indoor temperature and low durability. Herein, a supramolecular nanocomposite hydrogel film is prepared by integrating ethylene glycol‐modified pillar[5]arene (EGP5) and antimony‐tin oxide (ATO) nanoparticles. Owing to the thermo‐responsiveness of EGP5 and plasmonic heating induced by near‐infrared (NIR) absorption of ATO, the obtained film exhibits an outstanding photo‐thermochromic effect, which results in excellent sunlight‐induced solar modulation. Meanwhile, the film possesses high repeatability and durability based on the dynamicity and reversibility of EGP5‐based host–guest interaction. Therefore, this supramolecular film is further applicable in the fabrication of smart windows for the investigation of regulating indoor temperature. The result demonstrates that the obtained smart window based on this supramolecular nanocomposite hydrogel film can preferentially trigger its sunlight‐induced photo‐thermochromic effect to achieve a cool indoor temperature for a more comfortable life.
Photostability, thermal and mechanical properties of poly(vinyl chloride)/novel acrylate terpolymer blend
Authors: El Nazer Hossam A. , Elgohary Elzahraa A. , Rabie Samira T.
Published: September 2018

Methyl methacrylate/2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate/maleic anhydride terpolymer with various compositions was synthesized, characterized and investigated as a photostabilizer for rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The chemical structure of the terpolymer MMA/HEMA/MA, was confirmed by ultraviolet–visible and FTIR, spectroscopy. The molecular weights of the terpolymer were determined by applying gel permeation chromatography. The stabilizing efficiency of the terpolymer was evaluated by the determination of the weight loss of PVC/terpolymer blends after various irradiation times. The content of the formed gel as well as the intrinsic viscosity of the soluble fraction of the photodegraded polymer were also determined. The efficiency was also evaluated by measuring the extent of the discoloration of the photodegraded polymer. Thermal gravimetric analysis of the terpolymer and PVC/terpolymer blend were measured. Moreover, physicomechanical properties of photodegraded stabilized PVC samples were as well measured. The results revealed that the photostabilizing efficiency as well as thermal stability increased in the presence of the terpolymer as blended with PVC and by the increase of maleic anhydride ratio in the terpolymer. The photostabilizing efficiencies were compared with the industrially known UV absorber 2‐hydroxy‐4‐(octyloxy) phenylbenzophenone. J. VINYL ADDIT. TECHNOL., 25:E55–E62, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
$$ {R}_{K^{\left(*\right)}} $$ and the origin of Yukawa couplings
Authors: King Stephen F.
Published: September 2018

Abstract

We explore the possibility that the semi-leptonic B decay ratios

$$ {R}_{K^{\left(*\right)}} $$

R

K

*

which violate μ − e universality are related to the origin of the fermion Yukawa couplings in the Standard Model. Some time ago, a vector-like fourth family (without a Z′) was used to generate fermion mass hierarchies and mixing patterns without introducing any family symmetry. Recently the idea of inducing flavourful Z′ couplings via mixing with a vector-like fourth family which carries gauged U(1)′ charges has been proposed as a simple way of producing controlled flavour universality violation while elegantly cancelling anomalies. We show that the fusion of these two ideas provides a nice connection between

$$ {R}_{K^{\left(*\right)}} $$

R

K

*

and the origin of Yukawa couplings in the quark sector. However the lepton sector requires some tuning of Yukawa couplings to obtain the desired coupling of Z′ to muons.
Weaving the exotic web
Authors: Fernández-Melgarejo José J. , Kimura Tetsuji , Sakatani Yuho
Published: September 2018

Abstract

String and M-theory contain a family of branes forming U -duality multiplets. In particular, standard branes with codimension higher than or equal to two, can be explicitly found as supergravity solutions. However, whether domain-wall branes and space-filling branes can be found as supergravity solutions is still unclear. In this paper, we firstly provide a full list of exotic branes in type II string theory or M-theory compactified to three or higher dimensions. We show how to systematically obtain backgrounds of exotic domain-wall branes and space-filling branes as solutions of the double field theory or the exceptional field theory. Such solutions explicitly depend on the winding coordinates and cannot be given as solutions of the conventional supergravity theories. However, as the domain-wall solutions depend linearly on the winding coordinates, we describe them as solutions of deformed supergravities such as the Romans massive IIA supergravity or lower-dimensional gauged supergravities. We establish explicit relations among the domain-wall branes, the mixed-symmetry potentials, the locally non-geometric fluxes, and deformed supergravities.
Merging high energy with soft and collinear logarithms using HEJ and PYTHIA
Authors: Andersen Jeppe R. , Brooks Helen M. , Lönnblad Leif
Published: September 2018

Abstract

We present a method to combine the all-order treatment of the High Energy Jets exclusive partonic Monte Carlo (HEJ) with the parton shower of Pythia8, while retaining the logarithmic accuracy of both. This procedure enables the generation of fully realistic and hadronised events with HEJ. Furthermore, the combination of the two allorder treatments leads to improvements in the quality of the description of observables, in particular for regions with disparate transverse scales.
Weak cosmic censorship conjecture in Kerr-(anti-)de Sitter black hole with scalar field
Authors: Gwak Bogeun
Published: September 2018

Abstract

We investigate the weak cosmic censorship conjecture in Kerr-(anti-)de Sitter black holes under the scattering of a scalar field. We test the conjecture in terms of whether the black hole can exceed the extremal condition with respect to its change caused by the energy and angular momentum fluxes of the scalar field. Without imposing the laws of thermodynamics, we prove that the conjecture is valid in all the initial states of the black hole (non-extremal, near-extremal, and extremal black holes). The validity in the case of the near-extremal black hole is different from the results of similar tests conducted by adding a particle because the fluxes represent the energy and angular momentum transferred to the black hole during the time interval not included in the tests involving the particle. Using the time interval, we show that the angular velocity of the black hole with the scalar field of a constant state takes a long time for saturation to the frequency of the scalar field.
Gender-Based Occupational Segregation and Sex Differences in Sensory, Motor, and Spatial Aptitudes
Authors: Baker Michael , Cornelson Kirsten
Published: September 2018

Research on sex differences in humans documents gender differences in sensory, motor, and spatial aptitudes. These aptitudes, as captured by Dictionary of Occupational Titles (DOT) codes, predict the occupational choices of men and women in the directions indicated by this research. We simulate that eliminating selection on these skills reduces the Duncan index of gender-based occupational segregation by 20 % to 23 % in 1970 and 2012, respectively. Eliminating selection on DOT variables capturing other accounts of this segregation has a smaller impact.
Medication administration by caregiving youth: An inside look at how adolescents manage medications for family members
Authors: Nickels Margaret , Siskowski Connie , Lebron Cynthia N. , Belkowitz Julia
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Children take on the role of family caregiver throughout the world. No prior published research exists surrounding the particular circumstances of the task of medication administration and management by these youth, which was explored in this study.

Methods

A series of focus groups were conducted using semi‐structured interviews of 28 previously identified caregiving youth ages 12–19 years old who live in the United States. Data analysis followed guidelines of conventional content analysis.

Results

The following categories emerged about youth caregivers handling medications: 1) tasks involve organizational and administrative responsibilities; 2) youth have varying degrees of knowledge pertaining to these medications; 3) most share responsibility with other family members; 4) they lack formal education about their responsibilities; 5) multiple challenges exist relating to this task; 6) managing medications is associated with emotional responses; and 7) possible safety issues exist.

Conclusions

These responsibilities represent a unique hardship and merit support and research from the medical, healthcare, legislative, and public health communities, among others.
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial to Assess the Utility of Tacrolimus (FK506) for the Prevention of Erectile Dysfunction Following Bilateral Nerve-Sparing Radical Prostatectomy
Authors: Mulhall John P. , Klein Eric A. , Slawin Kevin , Henning Alice K. , Scardino Peter T.
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Radical prostatectomy (RP) is associated with erectile dysfunction, largely mediated through cavernous nerve injury. There are robust pre-clinical data supporting a potential role for neuromodulatory agents in this patient population. This study assessed tacrolimus in improving erectile function recovery rates after RP (ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00106392).

Aim

To define the utility of oral tacrolimus in improving erectile function recovery after nerve sparing radical prostatectomy.

Methods

A randomized, double-blind trial compared tacrolimus 2–3 mg daily and placebo in men undergoing RP. Patients had localized prostate cancer and excellent baseline erectile function, underwent bilateral nerve-sparing RP, and were followed up for at least 18 months after RP. Patients received study drug for 27 weeks and completed the International Index of Erectile Function erectile function domain (EFD) questionnaire at baseline and serially after surgery.

Main Outcome Measures

International Index of Erectile Function erectile function domain score.

Results

Data were available for 124 patients (59 tacrolimus, 65 placebo); mean age was 54.6 ± 6.2 years. No patient experienced permanent creatinine or potassium elevation. At baseline, mean EFD scores were 28.6 ± 2.1 (tacrolimus group) and 29 ± 1.5 (placebo group). By week 5, mean EFD scores had dropped to 8 ± 9.4 (tacrolimus) and 9 ± 10.7 (placebo). At 18 months, mean EFD scores were 16.0 ± 11.3 (tacrolimus) and 20.2 ± 9.0 (placebo) (P = .09). Tacrolimus failed to meet significance (hazard ratio = 0.83; P = .50), with no difference in: (i) percentage of patients achieving normal spontaneous erectile function (EFD score ≥24), (ii) time to normalization of EFD score (≥24), (iii) percentage of patients capable of intercourse in response to phosphieserase type 5 inhibitor (PDE5i), and (iv) time to achieve response to PDE5i.

Clinical Implications

Despite positive animal data, oral tacrolimus as used in this trial failed to improve erectile function after nerve sparing radical prostatectomy.

Strengths & Limitations

The study is limited by a high attrition rate. The strengths include a randomized, placebo controlled design, extensive patient monitoring, use of medication diaries and a validated instrument as the primary outcome measure.

Conclusion

Despite supportive animal data, tacrolimus used in this fashion in the RP population failed to demonstrate any superiority over placebo.
Plication for Severe Peyronie's Deformities Has Similar Long-Term Outcomes to Milder Cases
Authors: Reddy Rohit S. , McKibben Maxim J. , Fuchs Joceline S. , Shakir Nabeel , Scott Jeremy , Morey Allen F.
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Penile plication (PP) for Peyronie's disease (PD) is an established treatment option for mild to moderate curvature, but scant data exist regarding its utility in severe deformities.

Aim

To evaluate long-term outcomes among men undergoing PP for PD, comparing severe to mild/moderate penile deformities.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of patients who underwent PP for PD between 2009 and 2017. All patients underwent multiple parallel tunical plication without degloving. Severe PD was defined as either curvature ≥60 degrees or biplanar curvature ≥35 degrees. Patient demographics and surgical outcomes were analyzed. A modified PD Questionnaire and International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF)-5 were administered by telephone.

Main Outcome Measure

Long-term patient-reported outcomes were evaluated from a modified survey incorporating the PD Questionnaire and IIEF-5.

Results

Of 327 PP patients, 102 (31%) responded to the telephone survey at a median 59.5 months (interquartile range 28.3–84) since surgery. Patients were equally distributed into severe (n = 51) and mild/moderate (n = 51) groups. Despite a greater mean degree of curvature in severe compared to mild/moderate patients (71.6 degrees vs 37.7 degrees, respectively, P < .001), correction of penile curvature was achieved in 91% of patients, with a mean change of 60.7 degrees in severe cases compared to 31.4 degrees in mild/moderate cases (P < .001). Equal numbers of patients in severe and mild/moderate groups reported improvement of penile curvature (74.5% vs 74.5%, P = 1.0) and sexual function (51.0% vs 49.0%, P = .84). PD Questionnaire metrics were likewise similar between severe and mild/moderate patients (P > .1), as were rates of subjective penile shortening (62.7% vs 62.7%, P = 1.0) and IIEF-5, both pre-operatively (19.5 vs 19.7, P = .9) and post-operatively (19.4 vs 17.6, respectively, P = .15). On multivariate logistic regression, worsening sexual function was significantly associated with increased age (odds ratio 1.07, P = .01) and pre-operative IIEF (odds ratio 1.14, P = .02).

Clinical Implications

PP should be considered in PD patients with severe deformities, as outcomes are favorable and comparable to those with milder curvature.

Strength & Limitations

This is a novel study evaluating long-term patient-reported outcomes after PP, comparing patients with severe deformity to those with mild/moderate curvature. The study was limited by retrospective design, relatively low survey response rate (31%), and lack of validated post-operative PD questionnaire.

Conclusion

Long-term patient-reported outcomes of PP for severe PD deformities are comparable to mild/moderate cases, supporting broader application of PP beyond milder deformities.
HROMADKA: Theologian of the Resurrection
Authors: West Charles C.
Published: September 2018

Josef Hromadka was a man of controversy his whole life long. A quarter of a century ago, as the second world war was nearing its end, a refugee from his native land and a professor at Princeton Theological Seminary in the U.S.A., he published a testament and a prophecy for Western bourgeois civilization under the title Doom and Resurrection. The world had reason to be cautiously optimistic in these last days of 1944. The first atomic bomb had not yet exploded. The wartime partnership between the Soviet Union and the Western Allies was in full emotional swing; "cold war" and "iron curtain" were still unknown concepts. D-Day was a fact; the Nazi armies were in retreat; the United Nations had been conceived, if not yet born. Against the terrible darkness of the previous years, the future gave promise of a new and better world.