bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adie’s Tonic Pupil in a Case of Recurrent Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of Maxillary Sinus - An Ophthalmic Perspective
Authors: Udaya Prithviraj , Karanam Sairani
Published: August 2018

A gentleman without signs of tumour recurrence until a year following surgery for adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the maxillary sinus, presented with binocular diplopia, defective vision in the right eye and numbness in the right forehead. Examination revealed a right Adie’s pupil that concurred with positive infraorbital nerve margins on intraoperative frozen section, indicating a perineural tumour spread. Diplopia and Hess charting verified a combined right sixth nerve and partial third nerve palsy. Neuroimaging confirmed extension of residual tumour to the right cavernous sinus apart from buckling of the right optic nerve. We report a unique case of recurrent ACC of maxillary sinus with partial cavernous sinus syndrome and an acquired Adie’s pupil consequent to intracranial extension and perineural spread.
Heterostructures for Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution Reaction: A Review
Authors: Zhao Guoqiang , Rui Kun , Dou Shi Xue , Sun Wenping
Published: August 2018

Developing sustainable and renewable energy sources along with efficient energy storage and conversion technologies is vital to address environmental and energy challenges. Electrochemical water splitting coupling with grid‐scale renewable energy harvesting technologies is becoming one of the most promising approaches. Besides, hydrogen with the highest mass‐energy density of any fuel is regarded as the ultimate clean energy carrier. The realization of practical water splitting depends heavily on the development of low‐cost, highly active, and durable catalysts for hydrogen evolution reactions (HERs) and oxygen evolution reactions (OERs). Recently, heterostructured catalysts, which are generally composed of electrochemical active materials and various functional additives, have demonstrated extraordinary electrocatalytic performance toward HER and OER, and particularly a number of precious‐metal‐free heterostructures delivered comparable activity with precious‐metal‐based catalysts. Herein, an overview is presented of recent research progress on heterostructured HER catalysts. It starts with summarizing the fundamentals of HER and approaches for evaluating HER activity. Then, the design and synthesis of heterostructures, electrochemical performance, and the related mechanisms for performance enhancement are discussed. Finally, the future opportunities and challenges are highlighted for the development of heterostructured HER catalysts from the points of view of both fundamental understandings and practical applications.
Bisphosphonate Functionalized Gadolinium Oxide Nanoparticles Allow Long‐Term MRI/CT Multimodal Imaging of Calcium Phosphate Bone Cement
Authors: Mastrogiacomo Simone , Kownacka Alicja E. , Dou Weiqiang , Burke Benjamin P. , de Rosales Rafael T. M. , Heerschap Arend , Jansen John A. , Archibald Stephen J. , Walboomers X. Frank
Published: August 2018

Direct in vivo monitoring of bioconstructs using noninvasive imaging modalities such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) is not possible for many materials. Calcium phosphate–based composites (CPCs) that are applicable to bone regeneration are an example where the materials have poor MRI and CT contrast; hence, they are challenging to detect in vivo. In this study, a CPC construct is designed with gadolinium‐oxide nanoparticles incorporated to act as an MRI/CT multimodal contrast agent. The gadolinium(III) oxide nanoparticles are synthesized via the polyol method and surface functionalized with a bisphosphonate (BP) derivative to give a construct (gadolinium‐based contrast agents (GBCAs)‐BP) with strong affinity toward calcium phosphate. The CPC‐GBCAs‐BP functional material is longitudinally monitored after in vivo implantation in a condyle defect rat model. The synthetic method developed produces nanoparticles that are stable in aqueous solution (hydrodynamic diameter 70 nm) with significantT1andT2relaxivity demonstrated in both clinical 3 T and preclinical 11.7 T MRI systems. The combination of GBCAs‐BP nanoparticles with CPC gives an injectable material with handling properties that are suitable for clinical applications. The BP functionalization prolongs the residence of the contrast agent within the CPC to allow long‐term follow‐up imaging studies. The useful contrast agent properties combined with biological compatibility indicate further investigation of the novel bone substitute hybrid material toward clinical application.
Remote‐Controlling Potassium Channels in Living Cells through Photothermal Inactivation of Calmodulin
Authors: Chai Ran , Xing Chengfen , Gao Dong , Yuan Hongbo , Zhan Yong , Wang Shu
Published: August 2018

Spatiotemporal regulation of cellular functions provides a powerful strategy for understanding underlying mechanisms of cellular bioprocesses. Here, a strategy is reported to realize the remote control of the activities of potassium channels via photothermal inactivation of calmodulin (CaM) by using reduced graphene oxide decorated with calmodulin binding peptide (rGO‐P) as the transducer with near‐infrared light (NIR) irradiation. Upon NIR light irradiation, the CaM/Ca2+ bound to rGO‐P is inactivated by the photothermal effect of rGO‐P, resulting in the incapability of binding with Ca2+. Hence, the closed Kv10.1 channel is converted to be open in the presence of calcium in living cells. Meanwhile, the SK2 channel is induced to be closed from the open state and the Kir2.1 channel is unaffected by the intracellular inactivation of CaM. This strategy gives a noninvasive and effective approach to remotely control the activities of potassium channels, offering an alternative for the development of optogenetics.
Manganese‐Oxide‐Based Electrode Materials for Energy Storage Applications: How Close Are We to the Theoretical Capacitance?
Authors: Hu Yating , Wu Yue , Wang John
Published: August 2018

Of the transition metals, Mn has the greatest number of different oxides, most of which have a special tunnel structure that enables bulk redox reactions. The high theoretical capacitance and capacity results from a greater number of accessible oxidation states than other transition metals, wide potential window, and the high natural abundance make MnOx species promising electrode materials for energy storage applications. Although MnOx electrode materials have been intensely studied over the past decade, their electrochemical performance is still insufficient for practical applications. Currently, there is a trade‐off between specific capacitance and loading mass. MnOx species have intrinsically poor electrical conductivity, and current structural designs are not sophisticated enough to accommodate enough redox‐active sites. Recent studies have certainly made progress in increasing capacitance through making use of electrically conductive components and controlling the morphology of the MnOx species to expose more surface area. To increase the capacitance of MnOx electrodes to the largest extent without limiting loading mass, further structural design at the nanoscale and manipulation of the electrically conductive component are required. An ideal nanostructure is proposed to guide future research toward closing the gap between achieved and theoretical capacitance, without limiting the loading mass.
Electroluminescent Devices Based on 2D Semiconducting Transition Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Wang Junyong , Verzhbitskiy Ivan , Eda Goki
Published: August 2018

Ultrathin layers of van der Waals inorganic semiconductors represent a new class of excitonic materials with attractive light‐emitting properties. Recent observation of valley polarization, optically pumped lasing, exciton–polaritons, and single‐photon emission highlights the exciting prospects for two‐dimensional (2D) semiconductors for applications in novel photonic devices. Development of efficient and reliable light sources based on excitonic electroluminescence in 2D semiconductors is of fundamental importance toward the practical implementation of photonic devices. Achieving electroluminescence in these atomically thin layers requires unconventional device designs and in‐depth understanding of the carrier injection and transport mechanisms. Herein, various strategies for electrically generating excitons in 2D semiconducting transition metal dichalcogenides such as monolayer MoS2 are reviewed and challenges and opportunities are outlined. Furthermore, novel device concepts such as tunable chiral emission, electrically driven quantum emission, and high‐frequency modulation are highlighted.
Electrical and Crystallographic Study of an Electrothermodynamic Cycle for a Waste Heat Recovery
Authors: Kim Juyoung , Yamanaka Satoru , Nakajima Akira , Katou Takanori , Kim Juyoung , Kim Yoonho , Fukuda Tatsuo , Yoshii Kenji , Nishihata Yasuo , Baba Masaaki , Takeda Masatoshi , Yamada Noboru , Nakayama Tadachika , Tanaka Hirohisa
Published: August 2018

For decades, wasted heat has increased, and the thermal energy conversion system has become more important, especially in automobile applications. For waste heat recovery, an innovative electrothermodynamic cycle (pyroelectric effect with an external electric field) was recently presented, which is based on temporal temperature variations in wasted heat from engine exhaust gas. Herein, for further improvement, a generating mechanism of the cycle is investigated via an Operando analysis, time‐resolved synchrotron X‐ray diffraction with generating assessment. Polarization changes are analyzed via simultaneous electrical and crystallographic studies. Three types of materials are prepared: soft and hard types of PZTs and lead magnesium niobate—lead titanate (PMN‐PT). Among them, PMN‐PT has the highest generating power. When an external electric field is applied, the PMN‐PT exhibits only 180° domain rotations, whereas the other materials exhibit both 90° and 180° rotations. A strong driving force for 180° rotation depresses rotations in other angles and increases polarization changes. The results show that the material development, which has only 180° switching domains, has potential for use in the establishment of a high‐efficiency waste heat recovery system.
Polydopamine‐Modified Black Phosphorous Nanocapsule with Enhanced Stability and Photothermal Performance for Tumor Multimodal Treatments
Authors: Zeng Xiaowei , Luo Miaomiao , Liu Gan , Wang Xusheng , Tao Wei , Lin Yaoxin , Ji Xiaoyuan , Nie Lin , Mei Lin
Published: August 2018

As a novel 2D material, black phosphorus (BP) nanosheets are considered as a promising candidate for drug delivery platform for synergistic chemo/photothermal therapy. However, the intrinsic instability of bare BP poses a challenge in its biomedical applications. To date, some strategies have been employed to prevent BP from rapid ambient degradation. Unfortunately, most of these strategies are not suitable for the drug delivery systems. Here, a simple polydopamine modification method is developed to enhance the stability and photothermal performance of bare BP nanosheets. Then, this nanocapsule is used as a multifunctional codelivery system for the targeted chemo, gene, and photothermal therapy against multidrug‐resistant cancer. The enhanced tumor therapy effect is demonstrated by both in vitro and in vivo studies.
A Broad‐Spectrum ROS‐Eliminating Material for Prevention of Inflammation and Drug‐Induced Organ Toxicity
Authors: Li Lanlan , Guo Jiawei , Wang Yuquan , Xiong Xiaoxing , Tao Hui , Li Jin , Jia Yi , Hu Houyuan , Zhang Jianxiang
Published: August 2018

Despite the great potential of numerous antioxidants for pharmacotherapy of diseases associated with inflammation and oxidative stress, many challenges remain for their clinical translation. Herein, a superoxidase dismutase/catalase‐mimetic material based on Tempol and phenylboronic acid pinacol ester simultaneously conjugated β‐cyclodextrin (abbreviated as TPCD), which is capable of eliminating a broad spectrum of reactive oxygen species (ROS), is reported. TPCD can be easily synthesized by sequentially conjugating two functional moieties onto a β‐cyclodextrin scaffold. The thus developed pharmacologically active material may be easily produced into antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory nanoparticles, with tunable size. TPCD nanoparticles (TPCD NP) effectively protect macrophages from oxidative stress‐induced apoptosis in vitro. Consistently, TPCD NP shows superior efficacies in three murine models of inflammatory diseases, with respect to attenuating inflammatory responses and mitigating oxidative stress. TPCD NP can also protect mice from drug‐induced organ toxicity. Besides the passive targeting effect, the broad spectrum ROS‐scavenging capability contributes to the therapeutic benefits of TPCD NP. Importantly, in vitro and in vivo preliminary experiments demonstrate the good safety profile of TPCD NP. Consequently, TPCD in its native and nanoparticle forms can be further developed as efficacious and safe therapies for treatment of inflammation and oxidative stress‐associated diseases.
Operative time and cost variability for functional endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Thomas Andrew J. , Smith Kristine A. , Newberry Christopher I. , Cardon Brandon , Davis Brock , Ou Zhining , Presson Angela P. , Meier Jeremy D. , Alt Jeremiah A.
Published: August 2018

Background

Understanding the variation in costs of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) is critical to defining value. Current published costs of ESS have not identified potential sources of variation. Our objective was to analyze ESS costs to identify sources of variance that could guide value‐improving decisions.

Methods

ESS cases (n = 1739) performed between 2008 and 2016 were identified from a database of 22 rural to tertiary facilities. Cost and time data were extracted from the database. Medical records were reviewed to confirm procedures. Three bilateral groupings were examined (n = 895 cases from 13 facilities): (1) full ESS (all sinuses); (2) intermediate ESS (total ethmoid, maxillary); and (3) anterior ESS (anterior ethmoid, maxillary). Cost and operative time were analyzed using multivariable gamma regression.

Results

Median costs for full, intermediate, and anterior ESS were $4281, $3716, and $2549 U.S. dollars (p < 0.001). Median durations were 87, 60, and 58 minutes (p < 0.001). Among patients with no additional procedures, those with full ESS had operative duration, total cost, and supply costs that were 1.37 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17 to 1.61), 1.52 (95% CI, 1.32 to 1.75), and 2.40 (95% CI, 1.76 to 3.25) times greater than anterior ESS, respectively (all p < 0.001). Intermediate ESS duration at community urban facilities was 1.87 (95% CI, 1.74 to 2.02) times that of community rural facilities (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Duration of surgery, extent of surgery, and location of surgery are sources of significant variation in the cost of ESS. These findings will assist healthcare policy makers, hospitals, and surgeons in optimizing the value of ESS.
Electronic Properties of Strained Double‐Weyl Systems
Authors: Sukhachov Pavlo O. , Gorbar Eduard V. , Shovkovy Igor A. , Miransky Vladimir A.
Published: August 2018

The effects of strains on the low‐energy electronic properties of double‐Weyl phases are studied in solids and cold‐atom optical lattices. The principal finding is that deformations do not couple, in general, to the low‐energy effective Hamiltonian as a pseudoelectromagnetic gauge potential. The response of an optical lattice to strains is simpler, but still only one of the several strain‐induced terms in the corresponding low‐energy Hamiltonian can be interpreted as a gauge potential. Most interestingly, the strains can induce a nematic order parameter that splits a double‐Weyl node into a pair of Weyl nodes with the unit topological charges. The effects of deformations on the motion of wavepackets in the double‐Weyl optical lattice model are studied. It is found that, even in the undeformed lattices, the wavepackets with opposite topological charges can be spatially split. Strains, however, modify their velocities in a very different way and lead to a spin polarization of the wavepackets.
Building and Breaking Bonds via a Compact S‐Propargyl‐Cysteine to Chemically Control Enzymes and Modify Proteins
Authors: Liu Jun , Cheng Rujin , Wu Haifan , Li Shanshan , Wang Peng G. , DeGrado William F. , Rozovsky Sharon , Wang Lei
Published: August 2018

Analogous to reversible post‐translational protein modifications, the ability to attach and subsequently remove modifications on proteins would be valuable for protein and biological research. Although bioorthogonal functionalities have been developed to conjugate or cleave protein modifications, they are introduced into proteins on separate residues and often with bulky side chains, limiting their use to one type of control and primarily protein surface. Here we achieved dual control on one residue by genetically encoding S‐propargyl‐cysteine (SprC), which has bioorthogonal alkyne and propargyl groups in a compact structure, permitting usage in protein interior in addition to surface. We demonstrated its incorporation at the dimer interface of glutathione transferase for in vivo crosslinking via thiol–yne click chemistry, and at the active site of human rhinovirus 3C protease for masking and then turning on enzyme activity via Pd‐cleavage of SprC into Cys. In addition, we installed biotin onto EGFP via Sonogashira coupling of SprC and then tracelessly removed it via Pd cleavage. SprC is small in size, commercially available, nontoxic, and allows for bond building and breaking on a single residue. Genetically encoded SprC will be valuable for chemically controlling proteins with an essential Cys and for reversible protein modifications.
α‐Sila‐Dipeptides: Synthesis and Characterization
Authors: Minkovich Boris , Ruderfer Ilya , Kaushansky Alexander , Bravo‐Zhivotovskii Dmitry , Apeloig Yitzhak
Published: August 2018

The first two α‐sila‐dipeptides, 7 and cyclo‐sila‐dipeptide 8, were synthesized and characterized by several methods, including X‐ray crystallography. Bulky t‐BuMe2Si substituents provide some kinetic stabilization to the synthesized molecules. 7 and 8 are the first examples of a “Si for C switch” in the central α‐position of an amino acid or a peptide, in which silicon is bonded to both the amino and the carbonyl groups.
Highly Regioselective Domino Benzannulation Reaction of Buta‐1,3‐diynes To Construct Irregular Nanographenes
Authors: Yang Wenlong , Bam Radha , Catalano Vincent J. , Chalifoux Wesley A.
Published: August 2018

The properties of nanographenes can be tuned by changing their shapes, therefore the development of new methods suitable for the synthesis of various nanographenes is highly desirable. Described herein is an intramolecular InCl3/AgNTf2‐catalyzed regioselective domino benzannulation reaction of buta‐1,3‐diynes to build irregular nanographenes. Different nanographene compounds were easily obtained in moderate to high yields through careful design of the precursor compounds. This new domino reaction was successfully applied to a fourfold alkyne benzannulation of dimethoxy‐1,1′‐binaphthalene derivatives to arrive at novel chiral butterfly ligand precursors. The regioselectivity of the benzannulation reaction was unambiguously confirmed by X‐ray crystallography. Moreover, this new method enables us to synthesize different nanographene isomers and study their optical properties as a function of shape.
Synthesis and characterization of a new nanocomposite (FeW11V@CTAB‐MMT) as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for oxidative desulfurization of gasoline
Authors: Rezvani Mohammad Ali , Khandan Sahar
Published: August 2018

A new nanocomposite (FeW11V@CTAB‐MMT) was designed on the basis of vanadium‐substituted tungstoferrate (FeW11V) and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide‐modified montmorillonite (CTAB‐MMT) as an efficient nanocatalyst for oxidative desulfurization (ODS) of gasoline. The synthesized catalyst was characterized using various techniques. To evaluate the catalytic activity of FeW11V@CTAB‐MMT, ODS was carried out using a mixture of aqueous acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide solution as an oxidant and acetonitrile solvent as an extractant. The ODS results revealed that the removal efficiencies of thiophene, benzothiophene and dibenzothiophene were more than 97% in the presence of the FeW11V@CTAB‐MMT catalyst at 35 °C after 1 h. Kinetics of the catalytic ODS reactions was found to be pseudo‐first‐order. The prepared heterogeneous catalyst was found to be reusable for five runs without a discernible decrease in its activity. The current research provides insight into a new catalytic system for the ODS process for the deep removal of hazardous sulfur molecules from gasoline.
Seasonal and geographical variability of nitryl chloride and its precursors in Northern Europe
Authors: Sommariva Roberto , Hollis Lloyd D. J. , Sherwen Tomás , Baker Alex R. , Ball Stephen M. , Bandy Brian J. , Bell Thomas G. , Chowdhury Mohammad N. , Cordell Rebecca L. , Evans Mathew J. , Lee James D. , Reed Chris , Reeves Claire E. , Roberts James M. , Yang Mingxi , Monks Paul S.
Published: August 2018

Measurements of nitryl chloride (ClNO2) and its precursors (O3, NO2, particulate chloride) were made in 2014–2016 at three contrasting locations in the United Kingdom: Leicester, Penlee Point and Weybourne. ClNO2 was observed at all sites and in every season, with the highest concentrations between 00:00 and 04:00 GMT. The median nocturnal concentration of ClNO2 ranged between the detection limit (4.2 ppt) and 139 ppt. A clear seasonal cycle, with maxima in spring and winter, and significant differences between locations in the same season were observed. The main source of particulate chloride was sea salt aerosol (including at Leicester, ∼200 km from the coast). In general, ClNO2 levels were controlled by the concentrations of O3 and NO2, rather than by the uptake and reaction of N2O5 with particulate chloride. Under these conditions, the seasonality and geographical distribution of ClNO2 can be explained in terms of O3‐limited and NO2‐limited regimes affecting the formation of the N2O5 precursor. A global version of the GEOS‐Chem model at medium resolution (2° × 2.5°) was not able to fully capture the observed seasonality of ClNO2, mostly because the model overestimated the concentrations of the precursors, particularly of nocturnal O3. A higher‐resolution (0.25° × 0.3125°) version of GEOS‐Chem showed better agreement with the observations, although it still overestimated ClNO2 concentrations during summer.
Bilanzierung des baulichen Schallschutzes nach DIN 4109:2016‐07 für Wohnbauten aus Leichtbeton
Authors: Krechting Andreas
Published: August 2018

Für die zuverlässige Umsetzung von Schallschutzzielen ist eine möglichst genaue Bilanzierung nötig. Gerade im Wohnbau ist dies von höchster Priorität. Die Anpassung der DIN 4109:2016 ist dabei ein Schritt in die richtige Richtung. Die Berücksichtigung der Schallnebenwege zur Berechnung trennender Bauteile – speziell auch in Mehrfamilienhäusern – ermöglicht genauere Prognosen der Schalldämmung als zuvor. Dies erleichtert vor allem die Planung sensibler Wohnbereiche. Mauerwerk aus KLB‐Leichtbeton kann hier durch seine spezielle Struktur einen wichtigen Beitrag leisten.
A note on pseudo‐observations and left‐truncation
Authors: Grand Mia K. , Putter Hein , Allignol Arthur , Andersen Per K.
Published: August 2018

Pseudo‐observations have been introduced as a way to perform regression analysis of a mean value parameter related to a right‐censored time‐to‐event outcome, such as the survival probability or the restricted mean survival time. Since the introduction of the approach there have been several extensions from the original setting. However, the proper definition and performance of pseudo‐observations under left‐truncation has not yet been addressed. Here, we look at two types of pseudo‐observations under right‐censoring and left‐truncation. We explored their performance in a simulation study and applied them to data on diabetes patients with left‐truncation.
Development and validation of a UPLC–MS/MS method for quantification of osimertinib (AZD9291) and its metabolite AZ5104 in human plasma
Authors: Zheng Xin , Wang Weicong , Zhang Yanbao , Ma Yuxiang , Zhao Hongyun , Hu Pei , Jiang Ji
Published: August 2018

Osimertinib (AZD9291) is a highly selective irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR TKI) designed to treat nonsmall‐cell lung cancer patients with EGFR active and T790 M resistant mutations. A rapid and sensitive method for quantitative analysis by ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry of osimertinib and its metabolite AZ5104 in human plasma was developed and validated. The samples were prepared by protein precipitation and separated on a BEH C18 column (2.1 × 50 mm, 1.7 μm) by gradient elution with 0.1% (v/v) formic acid and 10 mm ammonium acetate in water and acetonitrile as the mobile phase. Electrospray ionization in positive ion mode and multiple reaction monitoring were used to monitor the ion transitions at m/z 500.4 → 385.3 and 486.3 → 371.1. The results indicated that the method had excellent sensitivity and specificity. The validation was performed in a range from 0.5 to 100 ng/mL. Intra‐day and inter‐day precisions (in terms of RSD) were all <15%, and the accuracies (in terms of RE) were within ±15%. The lower limit of quantification, matrix effect, extraction recovery, stability and dilution integrity were also validated and satisfied the validation criteria. Finally, this method was successfully applied in a retrospective analysis, and the predose samples of 52 nonsmall‐cell lung cancer patients who were enrolled in a novel third EGFR TKI clinical trial were analyzed for screening regardless of whether they had previously received osimertinib treatments.
Profiles of immune infiltration in colorectal cancer and their clinical significant: A gene expression‐based study
Authors: Xiong Yongfu , Wang Kang , Zhou He , Peng Linglong , You Wenxian , Fu Zhongxue
Published: August 2018

Immune infiltration of colorectal cancer (CRC) is closely associated with clinical outcome. However, previous work has not accounted for the diversity of functionally distinct cell types that make up the immune response. In this study, based on a deconvolution algorithm (known as CIBERSORT) and clinical annotated expression profiles, we comprehensively analyzed the tumor‐infiltrating immune cells present in CRC for the first time. The fraction of 22 immune cells subpopulations was evaluated to determine the associations between each cell type and survival and response to chemotherapy. As a result, profiles of immune infiltration vary significantly between paired cancer and paracancerous tissue and the variation could characterize the individual differences. Of the cell subpopulations investigated, tumors lacking M1 macrophages or with an increased number of M2 macrophages, eosinophils, and neutrophils were associated with the poor prognosis. Unsupervised clustering analysis using immune cell proportions revealed five subgroups of tumors, largely defined by the balance between macrophages M1, M2, and NK resting cells, with distinct survival patterns, and associated with well‐established molecular subtype. Collectively, our data suggest that subtle differences in the cellular composition of the immune infiltrate in CRC appear to exist, and these differences are likely to be important determinants of both prognosis and response to treatment.
Oxidation of Sulfurous Acid on Carbon Catalysts as a Test Reaction Revisited: Potential and Limitations
Authors: Klepel Olaf , Lange Felix , Utgenannt Stephan
Published: August 2018

Some decades ago, the oxidation of sulfurous acid in aqueous solution was described as a probe reaction to characterize carbon‐based catalysts in redox reactions. Since then, the importance of porous carbon materials in the redox catalysis increased enormously because of the new challenges in developing energy‐saving alternatives to industrial catalyst systems or catalysts for energy conversion applications. Therefore, there is an growing interest in rapid and reliable tools to characterize such catalysts. However, the use of oxidation of sulfurous acid as a test reaction fell appearently into oblivion. The aim of the present article is to evaluate its potential and limitations and to suggest improvements.
Synthesis of Benzannulated Medium‐Ring Lactams via a Tandem Oxidative Dearomatization‐Ring Expansion Reaction
Authors: Guney Tezcan , Wenderski Todd A. , Boudreau Matthew W. , Tan Derek S.
Published: August 2018

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Derek S. Tan at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. The image depicts the East River in New York City, whose current reverses direction in response to tidal events, analogous to reversal of electron flow in the accompanying tandem reaction. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.201802880.
Emotion‐focused therapy for binge‐eating disorder: A review of six cases
Authors: Glisenti Kevin , Strodl Esben , King Robert
Published: August 2018

Objective

This study aimed to provide preliminary evidence of the usefulness of emotion‐focused therapy (EFT) for binge‐eating disorder (BED).

Methods

We used a single‐subject design in which 12 weeks of individual EFT were applied nonconcurrently to six female adult participants with BED, following three weekly baseline sessions. Participants were assessed for binge‐eating psychopathology and emotion regulation difficulties on a weekly basis during baseline and treatment. They were assessed on a 2‐, 4‐, and 8‐week basis during posttreatment, and they were assessed for binge‐eating episodes, eating disorder attitudes, alexithymia, and psychiatric comorbidity at pretreatment and posttreatment.

Results

All cases experienced reliable recovery from binge‐eating psychopathology and a significant decrease in binge‐eating frequency. For all cases, there was reliable improvement or recovery on eating and shape concerns, and there was improvement on weight concern for the majority of cases. For all cases, reliable recovery or improvement occurred in overall emotion regulation. Most cases that were in the clinical range pretreatment recovered for anxiety, and reliable improvement in or recovery from depression occurred for all cases. There was reliable recovery or improvement in alexithymia for half of the cases; however, the other half experienced no change or deteriorated. There were no treatment dropouts.

Conclusion

Individual EFT demonstrates potential as a psychological treatment for BED. The current study provides preliminary evidence to guide the development of a more extensive trial to test the efficacy of individual EFT for BED as well as to identify possible mechanisms of change.
Neural network‐based design of 2‐channel quadrature mirror filter banks
Authors: Jou Yue‐Dar , Lin Zhan‐Pei , Chen Fu‐Kun
Published: August 2018

Two‐channel quadrature mirror filter banks can be efficiently established by the combination of real‐valued infinite impulse response all‐pass filters without incurring aliasing and magnitude distortions. The design problem of filter banks is therefore to seek for the phase error minimization of the all‐pass filter coefficients. In this paper, a neural network‐based Lyapunov energy function is used to relate to the objective function of the designed all‐pass filter coefficients. Based on the architecture of neural networks and suitable selection of Hopfield‐related parameters, the all‐pass filter coefficients are obtained when the networks reach convergence. By further using the suitable combination of the designed all‐pass filters, the 2‐channel quadrature mirror filter banks with perfect reconstruction can be efficiently accomplished. Simulation results indicate that the neural network‐based approach has the advantage of satisfactory performance in magnitude and group delay responses in a parallelism manner.
Multiplicative based path loss model
Authors: Bilgehan Bülent , Ojo Stephen
Published: August 2018

We present a newly introduced multiplicative based path loss model for the wireless channel. The model verified with experimental data at 2100 MHz collected across Cyprus in 6 existing microcells in urban, suburban, and rural areas. The new method uses the multiplicative least square fitting model that relates the decibel path loss to the distance with parameterized exponential‐type basis. The parameters are extracted from the real‐time measured values. The resulting path loss models apply to single‐cell arrangement with base antenna heights from 25 to 45 m and base‐to‐terminal distances from 0.1 to 2 km. The newly generated multiplicative base path loss model tested and compared with the best existing suitable models. The validity of the new model verified using relative error analysis. The new model can be used to determine accurately the path loss for microcells in the wireless coverage area as well as in the applications of data analysis.
Intestinal epithelial cells and T cells differentially recognize and respond to Candida albicans yeast and hypha
Authors: Schirbel Anja , Shouval Dror S. , Hebecker Betty , Hube Bernhard , Sturm Andreas , Werner Lael
Published: August 2018

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) are a multifactorial disorder. Our understanding of the role of bacteria in the pathogenesis of IBD has increased substantially; however, only scarce data exist regarding the role of commensal fungi in maintaining intestinal homeostasis and triggering IBD. Candida albicans (C. albicans) is a member of the intestinal mycobiome and proposed to contribute to IBD pathogenesis. We aimed to investigate the influence of the two morphologies of C. albicans, yeast and hypha, on epithelial cells and T cells from IBD patients versus healthy controls. We found that C. albicans was recognized by both epithelial cells lines and T cells. In the intestinal epithelial cell line, Caco‐2, response to hypha was different than to yeast cells, and this was mimicked by synthetic β‐glucans and Pam3CSK4. Unstimulated T cells exhibited increased activation and pro‐inflammatory cytokine secretion upon exposure, while there was no effect on apoptosis or proliferation. In contrast, C. albicans‐challenged CD3‐stimulated T‐cells exhibited decreased activation, cytokine secretion, apoptosis, and proliferation, suggesting reciprocal responsiveness to C. albicans. Glycans alone did not mimic abovementioned influences on T cells, suggesting alternative modes of recognition. In conclusion, we provide evidence for glycan dependent and independent recognition of C. albicans by epithelial cells and T cells.
A Convenient Synthesis of 1,2‐Disubstituted‐cis‐3,4‐Dihydroxypyrrolidines via an Ugi‐Four‐Component‐Reaction/Cycloisomerization/Dihydroxylation Protocol
Authors: Flores‐Constante Gemma , Sánchez‐Chávez Anahí C. , Polindara‐García Luis A.
Published: August 2018

Dihydroxypyrrolidines constitute an important group of biologically active molecules that are found in nature. In this paper, we report the development of a selective method for the synthesis of 1,2‐disubstituted‐cis‐3,4‐dihydroxypyrrolidines from Ugi four‐component‐reaction/propargylamine adducts through a 5‐endo‐dig cycloisomerization and subsequent cis‐dihydroxylation process.
Remote effects spatial process models for modeling teleconnections
Authors: Hewitt Joshua , Hoeting Jennifer A. , Done James M. , Towler Erin
Published: August 2018

While most spatial data can be modeled with the assumption that distant points are uncorrelated, some problems require dependence at both far and short distances. We introduce a model to directly incorporate dependence in phenomena that influence a distant response. Spatial climate problems often have such modeling needs as data are influenced by local factors in addition to remote phenomena, known as teleconnections. Teleconnections arise from complex interactions between the atmosphere and ocean, of which the El Niño–Southern Oscillation teleconnection is a well‐known example. Our model extends the standard geostatistical modeling framework to account for effects of covariates observed on a spatially remote domain. We frame our model as an extension of spatially varying coefficient models. Connections to existing methods are highlighted, and further modeling needs are addressed by additionally drawing on spatial basis functions and predictive processes. Notably, our approach allows users to model teleconnected data without prespecifying teleconnection indices, which other methods often require. We adopt a hierarchical Bayesian framework to conduct inference and make predictions. The method is demonstrated by predicting precipitation in Colorado while accounting for local factors and teleconnection effects with Pacific Ocean sea surface temperatures. We show how the proposed model improves upon standard methods for estimating teleconnection effects and discuss its utility for climate applications.
Decomposition algorithms for system reliability estimation with applications to interdependent lifeline networks
Authors: Paredes Roger , Dueñas‐Osorio Leonardo , Hernandez‐Fajardo Isaac
Published: August 2018

Reliability and risk assessment of lifeline systems call for efficient methods that integrate hazard and interdependencies. Such methods are computationally challenged when the probabilistic response of systems is tied to multiple events, as performance quantification requires a large catalog of ground motions. Available methods to address this issue use catalog reductions and importance sampling. However, besides comparisons against baseline Monte Carlo trials in select cases, there is no guarantee that such methods will perform or scale well in practice. This paper proposes a new efficient method for reliability assessment of interdependent lifeline systems, termed RAILS, that considers systemic performance and is particularly effective when dealing with large catalogs of events. RAILS uses the state‐space partition method to estimate systemic reliability with theoretical bounds and, for the first time, supports cyclic interdependencies among lifeline systems. Recycling computations across an entire seismic catalog with RAILS considerably reduces the number of system performance evaluations in seismic performance studies. Also, when performance estimate bounds are not tight, we adopt an importance and stratified sampling method that in our computational experiments is various orders of magnitude more efficient than crude Monte Carlo. We assess the efficiency of RAILS using synthetic networks and illustrate its application to quantify the seismic risk of realistic yet streamlined systems hypothetically located in the San Francisco Bay Region.
An assessment of applicability of existing approaches to predicting the bioaccumulation of conventional substances in nanomaterials
Authors: Utembe Wells , Wepener Victor , Yu Il Je , Gulumian Mary
Published: August 2018

The experimental determination of bioaccumulation is challenging, and a number of approaches have been developed for its prediction. It is important to assess the applicability of these predictive approaches to nanomaterials (NMs), which have been shown to bioaccumulate. The octanol/water partition coefficient (KOW) may not be applicable to some NMs that are not found in either the octanol or water phases but rather are found at the interface. Thus the KOW values obtained for certain NMs are shown not to correlate well with the experimentally determined bioaccumulation. Implementation of quantitative structure–activity relationships (QSARs) for NMs is also challenging because the bioaccumulation of NMs depends on nano-specific properties such as shape, size, and surface area. Thus there is a need to develop new QSAR models based on these new nanodescriptors; current efforts appear to focus on digital processing of NM images as well as the conversion of surface chemistry parameters into adsorption indices. Water solubility can be used as a screening tool for the exclusion of NMs with short half-lives. Adaptation of fugacity/aquivalence models, which include physicochemical properties, may give some insights into the bioaccumulation potential of NMs, especially with the addition of a biota component. The use of kinetic models, including physiologically based pharmacokinetic models, appears to be the most suitable approach for predicting bioaccumulation of NMs. Furthermore, because bioaccumulation of NMs depends on a number of biotic and abiotic factors, it is important to take these factors into account when one is modeling bioaccumulation and interpreting bioaccumulation results. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:2972–2988. © 2018 SETAC
Workforce forecasting models: A systematic review
Authors: Safarishahrbijari Anahita
Published: August 2018

Workforce analytics involves using models that integrate internal and external data to predict future workforce and help organizations in any industry examine factors that have a prognostic effect. This paper assesses workforce modeling and prediction methods by examining their rationale, strengths, and constraints. It aims to identify enhancements for further development of workforce forecasting models and compares the capacity and reliability of different forecasting methods. Past and present modeling trends are described and critiqued based on their relevance to current requirements. Several approaches are reviewed, such as time series modeling and system dynamics simulation. Sensitivity analysis in models is assessed. The models are decomposed into three modes: supply‐based, demand‐based, and need‐based, which in some cases provide substantially different estimates of future workforce need. The chronological progression of models' development is analyzed. The articles are also classified based on the countries and the sectors that have paid great attention to workforce prediction research. Consideration of the use of workforce models and the inputs into such models is not within the scope of this paper.
Conversion of Solar Energy into Electrical Energy Storage: Supercapacitor as an Ultrafast Energy‐Storage Device Made from Biodegradable Agar‐Agar as a Novel and Low‐Cost Carbon Precursor
Authors: Vijayakumar Manavalan , Adduru Jyothirmayi , Rao Tata Narasinga , Karthik Mani
Published: August 2018

Solar cells hold promise as energy conversion devices but intermittent sunlight limits their continuous applications. The self‐powering integrated solar cells and electrical energy storage devices can be an alternative to resolve this problem. This study demonstrates the integration of solar cell with supercapacitor (SC) device and evaluates its performance for energy conversion and storage for practical validity. SC carbon is derived from agar‐agar as low‐cost carbon precursor and a high‐performance SC electrode is utilized for the first time. The fabricated SC shows an excellent specific capacitance of 170 F g−1 and retains 85% of its original value up to 15 000 charge/discharge cycles at 1 A g−1, and it holds a maximum energy density of 17.7 Wh kg−1. The integration of SCs (three cells in series with 5.4 V) with a commercial solar lantern for a self‐sustaining power pack is demonstrated. The SC is charged by solar cells in a few seconds and powers a solar lantern with 40 light‐emitting diodes without sunlight, demonstrates its potential for efficient conversion of solar energy into electrical energy storage. This result highlights that solar SC can be considered as an ultrafast next‐generation energy‐storage device that can mitigate the energy demand in the near future.
Bioengineering of Functional Nanosilver Nanogels for Smart Healthcare Systems
Authors: Anjum Sadiya , Gupta Bhuvanesh
Published: August 2018

Functional designing of nanogels has become an attractive domain of biomedical engineering to develop bioactive materials with innovative features for the human healthcare system. Nanosilver has attracted enormous attention due to its wide antimicrobial spectrum and ability to kill almost all types of bacteria in its vicinity. However, the most crucial challenge for bioscientists is the lack of binding ability of nanosilver with the material surfaces that allow nanosilver to leach out to the surrounding tissue and exert toxicity while the biomaterial is in contact with the living system. Designing nanosilver within a nanogel confinement offers enormous possibilities to develop functional bioactive nanoparticles that may be bonded to any biomaterial surface via the nanogel functionality. This approach requires the proper combination of material science with nanotechnology and biotechnology to innovate interesting domain of functional nanogels with unique features. This work aims at providing a critical review on the current progress, approaches, and vision in designing nanosilver‐entrapped nanogel particles with diverse functionality, and their bioactivity against microorganisms for human healthcare devices.
Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance in Chinese population: A prospective epidemiological study
Authors: Ma Ling , Xu Shuang , Qu Jianhua , Hou Jian , Wang Yang , Wen Lei , Liu Yang , Kang Ying , Jiang Ming , Fu Weijun , Du Juan , Zhou Lin , Huang Xiaojun , Zhang Zhaoxia , Lu Jin ,   on behalf of Chinese medical doctor association multiple myeloma professional committee, Academic working group on multiple myeloma of Chinese geriatric medical association
Published: August 2018

The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) in different groups of age and the clinical features in China. This multicenter prospective study enrolled 1797 health subjects. The overall prevalence of MGUS was 2.73%. The prevalence of different age groups was 1.19% (41‐50 y), 1.16% (51‐60 y), 2.19% (61‐70 y), 3.66% (71‐80 y), and 7.76% (≥81 y). The prevalence of MGUS in male (n = 843) was 2.97%, while the prevalence of MGUS in female (n = 952) was 2.52%, but this difference of the two groups was not statistically significant. As for subtype of MGUS, IgG subtype was 55.1% (27 cases), IgA subtype was 14.3%, and IgM subtype was 12.2%. The M protein of one case became negative after 3 months, and the others remained positive without obvious disease transformation (follow‐up duration: 3‐7 mo). Thus, the prevalence of MGUS in China was similar to that in Mexican Americans, but lower than that in the other Asian country, American Whites, American Blacks, and Africans, and had a trend of increase with age. Male had higher prevalence of MGUS in China. The most common subtype was IgG.
Outcome of allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in patients with adult T‐cell leukemia
Authors: Kamiunten Ayako , Sekine Masaaki , Kameda Takuro , Akizuki Keiichi , Tahira Yuki , Shide Kotaro , Shimoda Haruko , Kato Koji , Hidaka Tomonori , Kubuki Yoko , Shimoda Kazuya
Published: August 2018

Adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) is an aggressive peripheral T‐cell neoplasm, and the outcome of patients with ATL after chemotherapy is poor. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem‐cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) is a curative treatment modality for ATL, and four factors, namely, age > 50 years, male recipient, lack of complete remission at transplantation, and transplantation of cord blood, were previously shown to be associated with poor survival. We retrospectively analyzed the outcome of 21 patients with ATL who had undergone allo‐HSCT at our hospital during a 3‐year period. Of 21 patients, all had at least one of the above risk factors, and 18 had two or more. With a median follow‐up of 19.7 months for living patients, the 1‐ and 2‐year overall survival (OS) rates after transplantation were 34% and 27%, respectively. All relapse/progression events occurred within 1 year after allo‐HSCT, and the cumulative incidence of relapse/progression at 1 year after allo‐HSCT was 46.9%. The 100‐day and 1‐year nonrelapse mortality (NRM) rates were 19% and 42%, respectively. No significant difference in OS was observed between myeloablative and reduced‐intensity conditioning regimens. The 3‐year OS (27%) of ATL patients who received allo‐HSCT and who had at least one adverse factor was somewhat poorer than the 3‐year OS of 33% identified in a nationwide study of allo‐HSCT in ATL patients in Japan. The high relapse/progression and NRM rates are major problems to be solved to achieve better outcome.