bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly Efficient Near‐Infrared Electroluminescence up to 800 nm Using Platinum(II) Phosphors
Authors: Wang Sheng Fu , Yuan Yi , Wei Yu‐Chen , Chan Wei‐Hsiang , Fu Li‐Wen , Su Bo‐Kang , Chen I‐Yun , Chou Keh‐Jiunh , Chen Po‐Ting , Hsu Hsiu‐Fu , Ko Chang‐Lun , Hung Wen‐Yi , Lee Chun‐Sing , Chou Pi‐Tai , Chi Yun
Published: June 2020

Near‐infrared organic light‐emitting diodes (NIR OLEDs) enable many unique applications ranging from night‐vision displays and photodynamic therapies. However, the development of efficient NIR OLEDs with a low efficiency roll‐off is still challenging. Here, a series of new heteroleptic Pt(II) complexes (1–4) flanked by both pyridyl pyrimidinate and functional azolate chelates are synthesized. The reduced ππ* energy gap of the pyridyl pyrimidinate chelate, and strong intermolecular interaction and high crystallinity in vacuum‐deposited thin films engender strong intermolecular charge transfer transition including metal–metal‐to‐ligand charge transfer; thereby, exhibiting efficient photoluminescence within 776–832 nm and short radiative lifetimes of 0.52–0.79 µs. Consequently, nondoped NIR‐emitting OLEDs based on these Pt(II) complexes are fabricated, to which Pt(II) complexes 2 and 4 give record high maximum external quantum efficiency of 10.61% at 794 nm and 9.58% at 803 nm, respectively. Moreover, low efficiency roll‐off is also observed, among which the device efficiencies of 2 and 4 are at least four times higher than that of the best NIR‐emitting OLEDs recorded at current density of 100 mA cm−2.
Recent Advances in Formulating and Processing Biomaterial Inks for Vat Polymerization‐Based 3D Printing
Authors: Li Wanlu , Mille Luis S. , Robledo Juan A. , Uribe Tlalli , Huerta Valentin , Zhang Yu Shrike
Published: June 2020

3D printing and bioprinting have become a key component in precision medicine. They have been used toward the fabrication of medical devices with patient‐specific shapes, production of engineered tissues for in vivo regeneration, and preparation of in vitro tissue models used for screening therapeutics. In particular, vat polymerization‐based 3D (bio)printing as a unique strategy enables more sophisticated architectures to be rapidly built. This progress report aims to emphasize the recent advances made in vat polymerization‐based 3D printing and bioprinting, including new biomaterial ink formulations and novel vat polymerization system designs. While some of these approaches have not been utilized toward the combination with biomaterial inks, it is anticipated their rapid translation into biomedical applications.
Boosting Catalysis of Pd Nanoparticles in MOFs by Pore Wall Engineering: The Roles of Electron Transfer and Adsorption Energy
Authors: Chen Dongxiao , Yang Weijie , Jiao Long , Li Luyan , Yu Shu‐Hong , Jiang Hai‐Long
Published: June 2020

The chemical environment of metal nanoparticles (NPs) possesses significant influence on their catalytic performance yet is far from being well understood. Herein, tiny Pd NPs are encapsulated into the pore space of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), UiO‐66‐X (X = H, OMe, NH2, 2OH, 2OH(Hf)), affording Pd@UiO‐66‐X composites. The surface microenvironment of the Pd NPs is readily modulated by pore wall engineering, via the functional group and metal substitution in the MOFs. Consequently, the catalytic activity of Pd@UiO‐66‐X follows the order of Pd@UiO‐66‐OH > Pd@UiO‐66‐2OH(Hf) > Pd@UiO‐66‐NH2 > Pd@UiO‐66‐OMe > Pd@UiO‐66‐H toward the hydrogenation of benzoic acid. It is found that the activity difference is not only ascribed to the distinct charge transfer between Pd and the MOF, but is also explained by the discriminated substrate adsorption energy of Pd@UiO‐66‐X (–OH < –2OH(Hf) < –NH2 < –OMe < –H), based on CO‐diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectra and density‐functional theory (DFT) calculations. The Pd@UiO‐66‐OH, featuring a high Pd electronic state and moderate adsorption energy, displays the highest activity. This work highlights the influence of the surface microenvironment of guest metal NPs, the catalytic activity of which is dominated by electron transfer and the adsorption energy, via the systematic substitution of metal and functional groups in host MOFs.
Large Single‐Crystal Cu Foils with High‐Index Facets by Strain‐Engineered Anomalous Grain Growth
Authors: Li Yanglizhi , Sun Luzhao , Chang Zhenghua , Liu Haiyang , Wang Yuechen , Liang Yu , Chen Buhang , Ding Qingjie , Zhao Zhenyong , Wang Ruoyu , Wei Yujie , Peng Hailin , Lin Li , Liu Zhongfan
Published: June 2020

The rich and complex arrangements of metal atoms in high‐index metal facets afford appealing physical and chemical properties, which attracts extensive research interest in material science for the applications in catalysis and surface chemistry. However, it is still a challenge to prepare large‐area high‐index single crystals in a controllable and cost‐efficient manner. Herein, entire commercially available decimeter‐sized polycrystalline Cu foils are successfully transformed into single crystals with a series of high‐index facets, relying on a strain‐engineered anomalous grain growth technique. The introduction of a moderate thermal‐contact stress upon the Cu foil during the annealing leads to the formation of high‐index grains dominated by the thermal strain of the Cu foils, rather than the (111) surface driven by the surface energy. Besides, the designed static gradient of the temperature enables the as‐formed high‐index grain seed to expand throughout the entire Cu foil. The as‐received high‐index Cu foils can serve as the templates for producing high‐index single‐crystal Cu‐based alloys. This work provides an appealing material basis for the epitaxial growth of 2D materials, and the applications that require the unique surface structures of high‐index metal foils and their alloys.
The Electronic Conductivity of Single Crystalline Ga‐Stabilized Cubic Li7La3Zr2O12: A Technologically Relevant Parameter for All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Philipp Martin , Gadermaier Bernhard , Posch Patrick , Hanzu Ilie , Ganschow Steffen , Meven Martin , Rettenwander Daniel , Redhammer Günther J. , Wilkening H. Martin R.
Published: June 2020

The next‐generation of all‐solid‐state lithium batteries need ceramic electrolytes with very high ionic conductivities. At the same time a negligible electronic conductivity σeon is required to eliminate self‐discharge in such systems. A non‐negligible electronic conductivity may also promote the unintentional formation of Li dendrites, being currently one of the key issues hindering the development of long‐lasting all‐solid‐state batteries. This interplay is suggested recently for garnet‐type Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO). It is, however, well known that the overall macroscopic electronic conductivity may be governed by a range of extrinsic factors such as impurities, chemical inhomogeneities, grain boundaries, morphology, and size effects. Here, advantage of Czochralski‐grown single crystals, which offer the unique opportunity to evaluate intrinsic properties of a chemically homogeneous matrix, is taken to measure the electronic conductivity σeon. Via long‐time, high‐precision potentiostatic polarization experiments an upper limit of σeon in the order of 5 × 10−10 S cm−1 (293 K) is estimated. This value is by six orders of magnitude lower than the corresponding total conductivity σtotal = 10−3 S cm−1 of Ga‐LLZO. Thus, it is concluded that the high values of σeon recently reported for similar systems do not necessarily mirror intragrain bulk properties of chemically homogenous systems but may originate from chemically inhomogeneous interfacial areas.
Repulsion of Polar Gels From Water: Hydration‐Triggered Actuation, Self‐Folding, and 3D Fabrication
Authors: Ridha Inam , Gorenca Pranvera , Urie Russell , Shanbhag Sachin , Rege Kaushal
Published: June 2020

Synthetic materials that mimic the ability of natural occurring features to self‐actuate in response to different stimuli have wide applications in soft robotics, microdevices, drug delivery, regenerative medicine, and sensing. Here, unexpected and counter‐intuitive findings are presented in which a strongly polyelectrolytic hydrogel repels from strong polar solvents upon partial exposure (e.g., partial hydration by water). This repulsion drives the actuation and self‐folding of the gel, which results in rapid formation of different three‐dimensional shapes by simply placing the corresponding two‐dimensional films on water. A detailed investigation into the role of hydrogel chemistry, pH, and morphology on hydration‐triggered actuation behavior of the gels and their nanocomposites is described. Finally, a computational model is developed in order to further elucidate mechanisms of actuation. Modeling partial hydration as a repulsive driving force, it tracks the evolution of the shape of the thin film that results from restoring elastic forces. Taken together, the results indicate that an interplay between elastic and Coulombic repulsive forces leads to seemingly unexpected behavior of actuation of strongly polyelectrolytic gels away from polar solvents, leading to a novel and simple fabrication strategy for diverse 3D devices.
Multiparameter Peptide Optimization toward Stable Triple Agonists for the Treatment of Diabetes and Obesity
Authors: Evers Andreas , Pfeiffer‐Marek Stefania , Bossart Martin , Elvert Ralf , Lorenz Katrin , Heubel Christoph , Garea Ana Villar , Schroeter Katrin , Riedel Jens , Stock Ursula , Konkar Anish , Wagner Michael
Published: June 2020

Historically, peptide optimization has mainly focused on pharmacological activity. Physicochemical properties have often been evaluated late in discovery, potentially providing molecules with suboptimal stability properties. Often, such issues cannot be overcome by formulation approaches but need additional optimization cycles for a redesign of the peptide. Here, early rational multiparameter optimization of exendin‐4 based agonists is described toward i) a balanced triple activity profile at the glucagon‐like peptide 1, glucagon, and gastric inhibitory polypeptide receptors for the treatment of diabetes and obesity and in parallel ii) robust physicochemical properties for 1‐daily subcutaneous application in a multiple‐dose pen device. In depth evaluation of an optimized candidate shows an excellent profile with respect to its physicochemical properties and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PD) behavior in minipigs and monkeys.
Exciton Quenching due to Hole Trap Formation in Aged Polymer Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Rörich Irina , Niu Quan , van der Zee Bas , del Pino Rosendo Esther , Crăciun Nicoleta Irina , Ramanan Charusheela , Blom Paul W. M.
Published: June 2020

Polymer light‐emitting diodes based on two poly(p‐phenylene vinylene) derivatives are aged at a constant current density, leading to the formation of hole traps. Time‐resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy (TRPL) measurements show that the degraded polymer light‐emitting diodes (PLEDs) also demonstrate a decrease in exciton lifetime. The amount of nonradiative exciton quenching sites in the aged devices is quantified by Monte Carlo simulations. It is found that the number of hole traps obtained from electrical charge transport measurements matches the number of newly formed nonradiative quenching sites determined from the TRPL experiments. The results reveal the origin for the apparent different behavior of the electroluminescence and photoluminescence upon PLED degradation. The decrease of the electroluminescence is governed by recombination of free electrons with trapped holes, whereas the photoluminescence is reduced by nonradiative quenching processes between excitons and hole traps.
Cytogenetic risk score maintains its prognostic significance in AML patients with detectable measurable residual disease undergoing transplantation in remission: On behalf of the acute leukemia working party of the European society for blood and marrow transplantation
Authors: Nagler Arnon , Labopin Myriam , Canaani Jonathan , Niittyvuopio Riitta , Socié Gerard , Kröger Nicolaus , Itäla‐Remes Maija , Yakoub‐Agha Ibrahim , Labussière‐Wallet Hélène , Gallego‐Hernanz Maria P. , Deconinck Eric , Chevallier Patrice , Finke Jürgen , Esteve Jordi , Mohty Mohamad
Published: June 2020

While evidence for measurable residual disease (MRD) is a harbinger of inferior outcome in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients referred for allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo‐SCT), the exact clinical trajectory of specific patient subsets in this clinical setting is undefined. Using a recently published prognostic cytogenetic model (Canaani et al. Leukemia 2019) we evaluated whether this model applied also to studies of patients with positive MRD. The analysis comprised MRD+ patients in first complete remission undergoing allo‐SCT from a matched sibling donor or unrelated donor. Seven hundred and seventy‐five patients were evaluated with a median follow‐up duration of 22 months. Cytogenetic risk score was favorable, intermediate/FLT3wt intermediate/FLT3‐ITD3, and adverse in 15%, 28.3%, 37% and 19.7% of the patients, respectively. Favorable and intermediate/FLT3wt risk patients had 2‐year leukemia‐free survival rates of 78% and 61%, respectively, compared with only 50% and 37% for intermediate/FLT3‐ITD3 and adverse risk patients, respectively (P < .001). In multivariate analysis adverse and intermediate/FLT3‐ITD3 risk patients were more likely to experience disease relapse compared with favorable risk patients [hazard ratio (HR) = 3.9, 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.1‐7.3; P < .001, and HR = 4.4, CI 95%, 2.4‐7.8; P < .001, respectively]. The European society for blood and marrow transplantation cytogenetic risk score is a valuable adjunct for risk stratification of MRD+ AML patients.
Ultrathin Dual‐Polarized Huygens’ Metasurface: Design and Application
Authors: Xue Chunhua , Sun Jingwen , Niu Le , Lou Qun
Published: June 2020

As a class of transmissive surfaces, Huygens’ metasurfaces have attracted much attention in recent years due to their abilities to efficiently manipulate transmitted waves. However, the study of dual‐polarized Huygens’ metasurfaces using vialess double‐layer elements has not yet been reported. To overcome this challenge, herein an ultrathin Huygens’ metasurface composed of only double‐layer elements without vias is proposed to achieve high transmission and near 360° phase shift for dual polarization. Based on induced magnetism, the top and the bottom elements act as both an electric dipole and a magnetic dipole, inducing the orthogonally electric and magnetic current simultaneously. Then their interaction excites the Huygens’ resonance. As an example of an application, a dual‐polarized Huygens’ meta‐lens is prepared that exhibits excellent antenna performance. Dual‐polarized Huygens’ metasurfaces based on induced magnetism offer extra opportunities for efficient transmitted wave manipulation in metasurfaces.
Off‐Axis and Multi Optical Bottles from the Ring Airy Gaussian Vortex Beam with the Astigmatic Phase
Authors: Wu You , Lin Zejia , Xu Chuangjie , Fu Xinming , Chen Kaihui , Qiu Huixin , Deng Dongmei
Published: June 2020

A new type of off‐axis and multi optical bottle (OB) from an astigmatic‐phase ring Airy Gaussian vortex beam (APRAGVB) propagating in free space is derived numerically. By choosing appropriate parameters, different sizes and amounts of OBs can be obtained. More importantly, when the APRAGVB has the multi optical vortices at different locations, one can generate off‐axis, multi, and complex OBs. It is believed that the results can diversify optical tweezers applications for multi microparticle manipulation.
β‐Polymorph enhancement in poly(vinylidene fluoride) by blending with polyamide 6 and barium titanate nanoparticles
Authors: Kasbi Sina Farahani , Jafari Seyed Hassan , Khonakdar Hossein Ali , Goodarzi Vahabodin , Torabi Atefeh
Published: June 2020

Polyamide 6 (PA6) as a cost‐effective polar polymer and barium titanate (BT) as piezoelectric ceramic nanofiller were melt compounded with poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) matrix to enhance the β electroactive phase. A series of samples with two blending ratios of PVDF/PA6 (90/10 and 70/30 [wt%/wt%]) each containing 1, 3, and 5 wt% of BT were prepared. The SEM results revealed that the addition of BT to the neat blends refined the biphasic morphology which is mainly due to selective localization of BTs in PA6 dispersed phase as confirmed by TEM observation and wetting parameter predictions. The EDX analysis demonstrated a uniform distribution of BT nanoparticles in the filled systems. FTIR and XRD results showed that β content increased as a result of blending while the α phase was suppressed. The BT nanoparticles inclusion to the blends showed a synergistic effect on the β‐polymorph content. These results in combination with the data derived from DSC (indicating reduction of the total crystallinity) complement the idea of β enhancement by the addition of BT nanoparticles and PA6 into PVDF.
The entry point of the central retinal artery into the outer meningeal sheath of the optic nerve
Authors: Merriam John C. , Casper Daniel S.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The entry point of the central retinal artery (CRA) into the outer meningeal sheath of the optic nerve posterior to the globe has been studied and debated for more than one hundred years. The authors have supervised an orbital anatomy course for more than two decades. This article summarizes previous studies of the CRA and presents the results of dissections of 67 orbits.

Materials and Methods

Heads were hemisected prior to dissection at the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University. The authors measured the entry point of the CRA with a caliper and noted the meridional orientation of the CRA.

Results

The mean entry point was 10.65 mm posterior to the globe, with a range of 5 to 18 mm. Most commonly, the CRA entered the sheath in the inferior meridian, but some entered slightly inferomedially or inferolaterally.

Conclusions

The entry point of the CRA into the sheath of the optic nerve is variable, and without detailed angiography the clinician cannot know the course of the CRA prior to performing invasive intraorbital procedures. Knowledge of common variations in CRA entry into the outer meningeal sheath of the optic nerve should help to minimize injury during surgery.
Effects of adaptive immune cell therapy on the immune cell profile in patients with advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Miura Miyabi , Mizukoshi Eishiro , Hashiba Tomomi , Kitahara Masaaki , Miyashita Tomoharu , Mochizuki Takafumi , Goto Shigenori , Kamigaki Takashi , Takimoto Rishu , Yamashita Taro , Sakai Yoshio , Yamashita Tatsuya , Honda Masao , Kaneko Shuichi
Published: June 2020

Background

Immunotherapy for cancer patients has been the subject of attention in recent years. In this study, we investigated whether αβT‐cell therapy causes changes in the host's immune cell profile, and if so, the effect of these changes on prognosis.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from 30 gastric cancer patients who had completed one course of αβT‐cell therapy were analyzed. The peripheral blood immune cell profile was established using PBMCs by counting the frequency of CD4+ helper T cells, CD8+ killer T cells, regulatory T cells (Tregs), and myeloid‐derived suppressor cells and measuring the expression of their surface markers. The changes after treatment and their association with response to treatment were investigated.

Results

Immune cell profiles changed greatly after treatment. The frequency of CD4+ helper T cells decreased, but that of CD8+ killer T cells increased. The frequency of programmed cell death 1 (PD‐1)+ effector Tregs increased significantly, but only in the non‐progressive disease (non‐PD) group, in which it was significantly higher compared with the PD group. Patients in whom the frequency of PD‐1+ effector Tregs increased had a significantly better prognosis than those in whom it decreased.

Conclusion

Our results suggested that αβT‐cell therapy changes the host's immune cell profile, and an increase in PD‐1+ effector Tregs may help improve prognosis.
Effect of sorafenib starting dose and dose intensity on survival in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma: Results from a Canadian Multicenter Database
Authors: Alghamdi Mohammed A. , Amaro Carla P. , Lee‐Ying Richard , Sim Hao‐Wen , Samwi Haider , Chan Kelvin K. , Knox Jennifer J. , Ko Yoo‐Joung , Swiha Mina , Batuyong Eugene , Romagnino Adriana , Cheung Winson Y. , Tam Vincent C. ,   the Hepatocellular Carcinoma ‐ Cancer Health Outcomes Research Database (HCC ‐ CHORD) Consortium
Published: June 2020

Background

Sorafenib has been shown to improve survival in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), however, full dose can be difficult to tolerate. The aim of this study was to determine whether sorafenib starting dose and mean dose intensity affect survival.

Methods

Patients treated with sorafenib for HCC from January 2008 to July 2016 in several Canadian provinces were included and retrospectively analyzed. The primary end point was overall survival (OS) of patients starting on sorafenib full dose compared to reduced dose. Secondary analysis compared OS with different mean dose‐intensity groups. Survival outcomes were assessed with Kaplan‐Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models. A propensity score analysis was performed to account for treatment bias and confounding.

Results

Of 681 patients included, sorafenib was started at full dose in 289 patients (42%). Median survival for starting full and reduced dose was 9.4 months and 8.9 months (P = .15) respectively. After propensity score matching and adjusting for potential confounders there was still no difference in survival (HR 0.8, 95% CI, 0.61‐1.06, P = .12). Almost half of the patients (45%) received a dose intensity < 50%. Median survival for mean dose intensity > 75%, 50%‐75%, and < 50% were 9.5 months, 12.9 months, and 7.1 months (P = .005) respectively. In multivariable models, starting dose(HR 1.16, 95% CI 0.93‐1.44, P = .180) and mean dose intensity were not associated with survival.

Conclusions

Starting HCC patients on a reduced dose of sorafenib compared to full dose may not compromise survival. Mean dose‐intensity of sorafenib may also not affect survival.
Numerical Investigation of Gas‐Liquid Reacting Flow in a Jet‐Type Singlet Oxygen Generator
Authors: Xu Chao , Chen Xi , Liu Tingting , Huai Ying , Chen Guangwen
Published: June 2020

A numerical simulation was carried out to investigate the process of gas‐liquid reaction in a jet‐type singlet oxygen generator by using volume‐of‐fluid coupled with large eddy simulation. The coupled hydrodynamic and reaction simulations provide detailed information about the reacting flow. Results reveal that the reaction aggravates the jet instability and affects the jet structure significantly due to the differential pressure around the liquid jet. The effects of gas velocity on chlorine conversion and the yield of singlet oxygen were investigated. The key is the increasing of the interface area rather than the convection. This numerical simulation study is convenient for the design of singlet oxygen reactors and the research of gas‐liquid two‐phase flow with reaction.
CFD‐Simulation einer generischen Reaktion in einem gerührten Behälter
Authors: Kleiner Thomas , Gottanka Michael , Stary Alexander , Rehfeldt Sebastian , Bertakis Evangelos , Klein Harald
Published: June 2020

Gerührte Behälter werden in der chemischen Verfahrenstechnik weitreichend eingesetzt, weshalb es sehr viele unterschiedliche Designs gibt. Für ihre Untersuchung wird daher vermehrt die numerische Strömungsmechanik eingesetzt, wobei bislang hauptsächlich die Strömung im Fokus stand. Innerhalb dieser Arbeit wird eine generische chemische Reaktion in einem gerührten Behälter simuliert und die Temperierung des Reaktors mittels numerischer Strömungsmechanik betrachtet. Mithilfe der Simulation lassen sich designkritische Aspekte ableiten und eine reaktionsspezifische Optimierung des gerührten Behälters durchführen.
Bildung 4.0: Herausforderungen für die Aus‐ und Fortbildung
Authors: Wilk Michael , Rommel Steve , Liauw Marcel A. , Schinke Bernd , Zanthoff Horst‐Werner
Published: June 2020

Mit der digitalen Transformation und den Veränderungen hin zur Arbeitswelt 4.0 entstehen neue Herausforderungen für die Aus‐ und Fortbildung von Verfahrensingenieuren und artverwandten Berufen. So müssen sich die Hochschulen und ihre Lehrenden nicht nur mit den neuen Möglichkeiten und Veränderungen auseinandersetzen, sondern auch auf die Besonderheiten und Erwartungen der zukünftigen Studierendenschaft aus der Generation der Digital Natives eingehen. Ähnlich große Herausforderungen hat die Industrie, die dem Wandel durch substanzielle Anpassungen und Erweiterungen der beruflichen Fortbildung begegnen muss, um die Beschäftigungsfähigkeit ihrer Belegschaft zu sichern und im Wettbewerb zu bestehen.
Separation Units 4.0 – Trennapparate heute und morgen
Authors: Riese Julia , Hoff Andreas , Stock Jürgen , Górak Andrzej , Grünewald Marcus
Published: June 2020

Die chemische Industrie sieht sich mit gravierenden Herausforderungen konfrontiert: Die Einhaltung der Klimaschutzziele, die Auswirkungen der Energiewende und die zunehmende Bedeutung der Kreislaufwirtschaft treffen die gesamte Wertschöpfungskette. Lösungsansätze von der Prozess‐ über die Apparateebene bis hin zum Einzelphänomen sind notwendig, um die Wettbewerbsfähigkeit dieses zentralen Industriezweigs zu erhalten. In diesem Beitrag werden aktuelle Entwicklungen und zukünftige Handlungsfelder in der Trenntechnik, die für diese Herausforderungen wertvolle Beiträge leisten können, dargestellt.
Lignin Depolymerization under Continuous‐Flow Conditions: Highlights of Recent Developments
Authors: Abdelaziz Omar Y. , Hulteberg Christian P.
Published: June 2020

Lignin is a polyaromatic polymer contained in plant cell walls, and it is considered the most abundant noncarbohydrate polymer on Earth. The aromaticity and richness of its functional groups render lignin an attractive starting biomacromolecule for conversion into a variety of value‐added products. The development of successful strategies for lignin valorization infers the design of effective depolymerization protocols. Most research on lignin depolymerization has focused on batch‐mode processing, whereas only a few studies have investigated such lignin transformations in continuous reactor systems. In this Concept, emerging developments within the concept of continuous lignin processing and the challenges remaining in realizing the efficient valorization of lignin by using this technology are highlighted. A special focus is set on the hydrothermal conversion of technical lignin under continuous‐flow conditions, together with suggestions for future research and technology development.
Immune microenvironment composition in non‐small cell lung cancer and its association with survival
Authors: Tamminga Menno , Hiltermann Thijo Jeroen N , Schuuring Ed , Timens Wim , Fehrmann Rudolf SN , Groen Harry JM
Published: June 2020

Objectives

In non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the immune system and possibly its composition affect survival. In this in silico study, the immune infiltrate composition in NSCLC patients was evaluated.

Methods

Gene expression data of tumors from early NSCLC patients were obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). With CIBERSORT, 22 immune cell fractions were estimated.

Results

The immune infiltrate of 1430 pretreatment NSCLC patients contained mostly plasma cells, macrophages and CD8 T cells. Higher fractions of resting mast and CD4 T‐helper cells were associated with longer overall survival (OS) (HR = 0.95, P < 0.01; HR = 0.98, = 0.04, respectively) and higher fractions of M2 macrophages and active dendritic cells with shorter survival (HR = 1.02, P = 0.03; HR = 1.03, P = 0.05, respectively). Adenocarcinoma patients with survival data (n = 587) showed higher fractions of resting mast and resting CD4 T cells, and lower M0 macrophages than squamous cell carcinoma (n = 254), which were associated with OS (HR = 0.95, P = 0.04; HR = 0.97, P = 0.01; HR = 1.03, P = 0.01, respectively). Fractions of memory B cells, naïve CD4 T cells and neutrophils had different associations with survival depending on the subtype. Smokers had had higher fractions of regulatory T cell, follicular helper T cell, neutrophil and M2 macrophage, which were associated with shorter survival (HR = 1.3, P < 0.01; HR = 1.13, P = 0.02; HR = 1.09, P = 0.03; HR = 1.04, P = 0.02, respectively).

Conclusion

Pretreatment differences in immune cell composition in NSCLC are associated with survival and depend on smoking status and histological subtype. Smokers' immune composition is associated with lower survival.
Multiparameter Flow Cytometry Assay for Analysis of Nitrosative Stress Status in Human Spermatozoa
Authors: Uribe Pamela , Meriño Juan , Manquemilla Emilio , Villagrán Camila , Vega Etelinda , Zambrano Fabiola , Schulz Mabel , Pezo Felipe , Villegas Juana V. , Boguen Rodrigo , Sánchez Raúl
Published: June 2020

Male infertility is an increasing health problem, and oxidative/nitrosative stress plays an important role in the etiology of this condition. Nitrosative stress due to excessive levels of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) is associated with impaired male fertility. Flow cytometry may be a useful tool for semen evaluation, but the availability of multiparameter assays for analysis of sperm quality is limited. The present study standardized a multiparameter flow cytometry analysis for nitrosative stress status in human spermatozoa in a single assay. A suitable multicolor fluorochrome panel was designed and consisted of fluorescein‐boronate to detect peroxynitrite, a highly RNS, propidium iodide to analyze viability, tetramethylrhodamine methyl ester perchlorate to detect mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and monobromobimane to analyze thiol oxidation. Proper positive and negative controls for each fluorochrome were used to establish the technique, and sperm cells of different qualities and spermatozoa subjected to cryopreservation were analyzed. The results showed that the controls clearly discriminated between the high and low fluorescence intensities for each fluorochrome. The analysis of sperm cells of different quality demonstrated that the assay properly detected differences in all parameters analyzed according to sperm quality. The results may be reported as the mean fluorescence intensity of each fluorochrome and the percentage of cells exhibiting different characteristics. In conclusion, a protocol was standardized to analyze nitrosative stress status, including peroxynitrite production, viability, MMP, and thiol oxidation, in a single analysis using flow cytometry. This protocol may be applied to research approaches and clinical andrology to improve the evaluation of sperm quality and provide a promising tool to increase the use of clinical flow cytometry. © 2020 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry
A multi‐parametric approach to remove the influence of plasma volume on the athlete biological passport during a Union Cycliste Internationale cycling stage race
Authors: Garvican‐Lewis Laura A. , Lobigs Louisa M. , Equey Tristan , Goebel Catrin , Agon Vanessa , McCowan Andrew , Speers Naomi , Schumacher Yorck O.
Published: June 2020

Fluctuations in plasma volume (PV) present potential confounders within the concentration‐based markers of the haematological athlete biological passport (ABP). Here, a multi‐parametric approach involving a simple blood test is applied to the current ABP adaptive model in an attempt to remove the influence of PV expansion, induced by a cycling stage race. Blood samples were obtained from 29 professional cyclists (14 male, 15 female) before, during and after 4–5 consecutive days of racing. Whole blood was analysed in accordance with the World Anti‐Doping Agency ABP guidelines for haemoglobin ([Hb]) concentration and platelets. Serum and plasma were analysed for transferrin, albumin, calcium, creatinine, total protein and low‐density lipoprotein. PV variation (Z‐scores) was estimated using a multi‐parametric model (consisting of the biomarkers mentioned earlier) and compared against calculated variations in PV (measured via CO‐rebreathing). Significant reductions in [Hb] and the OFF‐score were observed in female cyclists after 3 and 4 days of racing, with accompanying increases in PV, which returned to baseline values 4 days post competition. Similarly, a significant increase in PV was observed in male cyclists after 3 and 5 days of racing. When individual estimations of PV variance were applied to the adaptive model, the upper and lower reference predictions for [Hb] and the OFF‐score were refined such that all outliers consistent with racing‐induced PV changes were removed. The PV model appears capable of reducing the influence of PV on concentration‐dependent markers during competition. This is an important step towards the inclusion of the PV correction in the ABP haematological module.
Soil microbial communities associated with giant sequoia: How does the world's largest tree affect some of the world's smallest organisms?
Authors: Carey Chelsea J. , Glassman Sydney I. , Bruns Thomas D. , Aronson Emma L. , Hart Stephen C.
Published: June 2020

Giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) is an iconic conifer that lives in relict populations on the western slopes of the California Sierra Nevada. In these settings, it is unusual among the dominant trees in that it associates with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi rather than ectomycorrhizal fungi. However, it is unclear whether differences in microbial associations extend more broadly to nonmycorrhizal components of the soil microbial community. To address this question, we used next‐generation amplicon sequencing to characterize bacterial/archaeal and fungal microbiomes in bulk soil (0–5 cm) beneath giant sequoia and co‐occurring sugar pine (Pinus lambertiana) individuals. We did this across two groves with distinct parent material in Yosemite National Park, USA. We found tree‐associated differences were apparent despite a strong grove effect. Bacterial/archaeal richness was greater beneath giant sequoia than sugar pine, with a core community double the size. The tree species also harbored compositionally distinct fungal communities. This pattern depended on grove but was associated with a consistently elevated relative abundance of Hygrocybe species beneath giant sequoia. Compositional differences between host trees correlated with soil pH and soil moisture. We conclude that the effects of giant sequoia extend beyond mycorrhizal mutualists to include the broader community and that some but not all host tree differences are grove‐dependent.
Model‐based clustering reveals patterns in central place use of a marine top predator
Authors: Brost Brian M. , Hooten Mevin B. , Small Robert J.
Published: June 2020

Satellite telemetry data are commonly used to quantify habitat selection, examine animal movements, and delineate home ranges. These data also contain valuable information concerning dens, nests, roosts, and other central places that are often associated with important life history events and may exhibit unique characteristics; however, using satellite telemetry data to study central places is complicated by common nuances like locational error and animal movement. We coupled a novel modeling framework that accounts for these nuances with an Argos satellite telemetry dataset to examine the spatiotemporal behavior associated with harbor seal haul‐out sites on Kodiak Island, Alaska, USA. The methodology incorporates an observation model that accommodates multiple sources of uncertainty in telemetry data and a flexible Bayesian nonparametric model to uncover latent clustering in the telemetry locations. We also contribute extensions to examine the effect of covariates on site selection and to obtain population‐level inference concerning central place use. Harbor seal haul‐out sites generally occurred in inlets and bays, areas that are isolated from the open water of the Gulf of Alaska. Most individuals selected haul‐out sites that were protected from wave exposure. The effects of bathymetry and shoreline complexity on haul‐out site selection were variable among individual seals, as were the effects of time of day, time since low tide, and day of year on temporal patterns of haul‐out use. As repositories of satellite telemetry data on a wide variety of species accumulate, so do opportunities for using this information to learn about the locations of central places, as well as the temporal patterns in their use. The model‐based approach we describe offers a practical and rigorous means for gaining insight concerning these sensitive locations, knowledge of which is important for the effective management and conservation of many species.
First interactions with the hydrologic cycle determine pyrogenic carbon's fate in the Earth system
Authors: Masiello Caroline Ann , Berhe Asmeret Asefaw
Published: June 2020

Fires produce an aromatic particulate residue commonly referred to as pyrogenic carbon (PyC). Particulate PyC is low density, high porosity, and is predominantly deposited on the soil surface in post‐fire landscapes. These characteristics create a material that is prone to mobility, both vertically down the soil profile and laterally across the landscape even in low‐relief landforms. Because of its tendency for lateral mobilization, we argue here that PyC's first interaction with water determines its environmental fate and persistence, not its interactions with soil minerals or microbes. PyC's first interactions with water determine: the amount of PyC that will enter the soil profile and experience microbial and geochemical alterations, whether it will be buried in depositional environments and stored on the landscape, or if it will be transported to streams and eventually to the ocean. Here we posit that this crucial first interaction with the hydrologic cycle occurs on the timescale of days to weeks, and therefore supersedes microbial decomposition as the primary control on PyC's environmental persistence. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Decarbonizing the Energy Mix: Carbon Pricing Implications and Path Forward
Authors: DeCotis Paul A. , Cartwright Echo D. , Ganesh Addy
Published: June 2020

Debates are being had around the globe on how to reduce carbon emissions most efficiently and economically. Whether though a carbon tax or carbon trading program, or through wholesale market pricing schemes, carbon mitigation strategies for reducing carbon dioxide emissions in the electricity sector are gaining traction. With the aggressive fiscal and monetary policies and stimulus programs in place across the globe, attempting to soften a global economic downturn and speed the economic recovery from the COVID‐19 pandemic, governments and businesses alike are voicing concerns about pending large budget deficits and their potential to slow and prolong economy recovery. Governments around the world will be forced to reduce spending in coming years or find ways to raise revenues. The tax code is a very efficient and effective way to steer investments toward innovative and transformative capital projects, including projects that support decarbonization.
Overexpression of H3K36 methyltransferase NSD in glial cells affects brain development in Drosophila
Authors: Kim Taejoon , Shin Hyewon , Song Bokyeong , Won Chihyun , Yoshida Hideki , Yamaguchi Masamitsu , Cho Kyoung Sang , Lee Im‐Soon
Published: June 2020

NSD1 is a histone methyltransferase that methylates the lysine 36 at histone H3. NSD duplication is associated with short stature, microcephaly, intellectual disability, and behavioral defects in humans. Ectopic overexpression of NSD, an NSD1 homolog in Drosophila, was shown to induce developmental abnormalities via apoptosis. In this study, to investigate the effects of NSD overexpression on Drosophila brain development, we first examined the typical NSD expression pattern in larval brains and found that endogenous NSD promoter activity was detected only in subsets of glial cells. Pan‐glial, but not pan‐neuronal, NSD overexpression induced apoptosis in larval brain cells. However, pan‐glial NSD overexpression also induced caspase‐3 cleavage in neuronal cells. Among the various glial cell types, NSD overexpression in only astrocytic glia induced apoptosis and abnormal learning defects in the larval stage. Furthermore, NSD overexpression downregulated the expression of various astrocyte‐specific genes, including draper (drpr), possibly owing to an indirect effect of NSD overexpression‐induced astrocytic apoptosis. Since drpr plays a role in axon pruning during mushroom body (MB) formation in Drosophila astrocytes, we examined the effect of astrocytic NSD overexpression on this process and found that it disrupted the clearance of γ‐neurons in the MB, subsequently inducing arrhythmic locomotor activity of the fly. Thus, these results suggest that aberrant NSD overexpression may cause neurodevelopmental disorders by interfering with crucial functions of astrocytes in the brain, underlining the importance of the tightly controlled astrocytic NSD expression for proper neurodevelopment.
Development and evaluation of a water flow and solute transport model for furrow fertigation with surge flow
Authors: Ojaghlou Hassan , Sohrabi Teymour , Abbasi Fariborz , Javani Hamidreza
Published: June 2020

One of the important factors in fertilizer application efficiency in surface fertigation is the shape of inflow hydrographs. In this research, a fertigation model is developed to analyse the effect of surge flow on furrow fertigation. Saint‐Venant equations and the advection–dispersion equation were used to estimate water flow and solute transport characteristics, respectively. The field experiments, including different fertigation treatments with surge flow, were conducted to calibrate and evaluate the developed model. Most of the water and nitrate losses occurred through runoff; water losses through runoff ranged from 13.8 to 33.4%, while fertilizer losses varied between 5.1 and 47%. Water and nitrate losses in the second fertigation experiments were higher than those in the first due to the reduction of the surge effect. A comparison between simulated and observed data shows appropriate accuracy of the developed model; the root mean squared error (RMSE) index for nitrate and water runoff losses was 8.4 and 12.1%, respectively. Fertigation during all advance surges was recognized as the desirable option in furrow irrigation with a surge flow. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting credit card fraud with Sarbanes‐Oxley assessments and Fama‐French risk factors
Authors: Westland James Christopher
Published: June 2020

This research developed and tested machine learning models to predict significant credit card fraud in corporate systems using Sarbanes‐Oxley (SOX) reports, news reports of breaches and Fama‐French risk factors (FF). Exploratory analysis found that SOX information predicted several types of security breaches, with the strongest performance in predicting credit card fraud. A systematic tuning of hyperparamters for a suite of machine learning models, starting with a random forest, an extremely‐randomized forest, a random grid of gradient boosting machines (GBMs), a random grid of deep neural nets, a fixed grid of general linear models where assembled into two trained stacked ensemble models optimized for F1 performance; an ensemble that contained all the models, and an ensemble containing just the best performing model from each algorithm class. Tuned GBMs performed best under all conditions. Without FF, models yielded an AUC of 99.3% and closeness of the training and validation matrices confirm that the model is robust. The most important predictors were firm specific, as would be expected, since control weaknesses vary at the firm level. Audit firm fees were the most important non‐firm‐specific predictors. Adding FF to the model rendered perfect prediction (100%) in the trained confusion matrix and AUC of 99.8%. The most important predictors of credit card fraud were the FF coefficient for the High book‐to‐market ratio Minus Low factor. The second most influential variable was the year of reporting, and third most important was the Fama‐French 3‐factor model R2 – together these described most of the variance in credit card fraud occurrence. In all cases the four major SOX specific opinions rendered by auditors and the signed SOX report had little predictive influence.
Objective evaluation of quality in cavity preparations
Authors: Schiff AJ , Salvendy G , Root CM , Ferguson GW , Cunningham PR
Published: June 2020

Significant improvements in reliability of criteria measures were obtained by using a newly developed instrument to evaluate objectively the quality of cavity preparations in comparison to subjective ratings by the instructors of the quality of cavity preparations.
The current status and impact of oral biology in dental education
Authors: Suddick RP
Published: June 2020

Twenty‐four oral biology departments were surveyed with respect to number of faculty, graduate programs, and role in the dental schools (ORB schools). The mean full‐time and part‐time faculty per department is eight and 2.6, respectively. There are nine graduate programs, but only one has actually granted Ph.D.'s in oral biology. Students of these ORB schools were compared with students of 32 dental schools which did not have oral biology departments (NOB schools) in performance on the dental National Board Examinations. With respect to mean scores, students from the ORB schools performed better on both part 1 and part 2 examinations from 1969 to 1974. There has also been an impressive difference in the failure rates, students in the ORB schools experiencing a lower failure rate. Further analysis demonstrated that oral biology departments have developed largely in dental schools which have relied upon medical school basic science departments for teaching the basic sciences.
Four‐phase study of computer‐assisted and slide‐tape methods of stimulating clinical endodontic problems
Authors: Mullaney TP , Smith TA , Duell RC , Kaplan A
Published: June 2020

1. Computer‐assisted instruction of stimulated clinical endodontic problems is superior to a slide‐tape presentation for test selection but not for diagnosis and treatment planning. 2. The lack of a difference in diagnosis is likely due to the already superior performance of students in diagnosis at the University of Kentucky without computer assistance. A study with students of less background might reveal a difference in presentation methods. 3. Students with high GPSs score higher on a written test of endodontic clinical judgment. 4. Reliable results on the effects of a human tutor's supplementing machine instruction were not obtained. 5. Students felt that the problems presented in this study were useful in preparing for clinical treatment of patients. 6. After some exposure to machine methods of instruction, students divided into three sizable groups, one preferring a human teacher, another preferring a machine, and the third having no preference. The decision to use only machine or human instruction cannot then be made from student attitudes. 7. Students liked the active participation and immediate responses of the computer but not the time necessary to complete the problems. 8. Students liked the self‐pacing, speed, and convenience of the slide‐tape method but not the incompleteness of the problems presented by this method. 9. It appears that there is some justification from this study for offering both slide‐tape and computer‐assisted presentations to students.