bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A 3D Porous MgFe2O4 Integrative Electrode as a Binder‐Free Anode with High Rate Capability and Long Cycle Lifetime
Authors: Yin Yanhong , Liu Wenfeng , Gao Rongzhen , Yang Shuting
Published: December 2018

A superior 3D architecture Ni foam/MgFe2O4 integrative electrode was firstly designed and synthesized via a simple hydrothermal method and subsequent calcination as a binder‐free anode for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). MgFe2O4 nanoparticles with diameter of about 60 nm interconnect with each other to form porous nanosheets and anchor on the Ni foam (N‐MFO). The 3D architectural design with superior conductivity and a strong skeleton structure not only provides fast kinetics, reduces the polarization and enhances the rate performance, but also buffers volume expansion and improves the cycle stability during the discharge/charge process. In addition, the interfacial lithium storage of the N‐MFO electrode promotes high lithium‐storage capacity, superior cycle stability and impressive rate capability. Even cycling at a current density of 5 A g−1 for 1000 cycles, the capacity remains stable at about 780 mAh g−1.
Mn‐Catalyzed Electrochemical Synthesis of Quinazolinones from Primary Alcohols/Benzyl Ethers and o‐Aminobenzamides
Authors: Lin Dian‐Zhao , Lai Yin‐Long , Huang Jing‐Mei
Published: December 2018

An efficient approach for the synthesis of quinazolinones from o‐aminobenzamides and alcohols by the combination of electrochemistry and redox‐metal catalysis has been developed. Taking manganese(II) sulfate as a redox catalyst, this transformation proceeded smoothly under ambient conditions in an undivided cell to afford quinazolinones in moderate to excellent yields with a wide substrate scope. Benzyl ethers were also suitable participants in the cascade cyclization sequence.
Stabilizing RbPbBr3 Perovskite Nanocrystals through Cs+ Substitution
Authors: Xiao Jia‐Wen , Liang Yuan , Zhang Siyu , Zhao Yizhou , Li Yujing , Chen Qi
Published: December 2018

ABX3‐type halide perovskite nanocrystals (NCs) have been a hot topic recently due to their fascinating optoelectronic properties. It has been demonstrated that A‐site ions have an impact on their photophysical and chemical properties, such as the optical band gap and chemical stability. The pursuit of halide perovskite materials with diverse A‐site species would deepen the understanding of the structure–property relationship of the perovskite family. In this work we have attempted to synthesize rubidium‐based perovskite NCs. We have discovered that the partial substitution of Rb+ by Cs+ help to stabilize the orthorhombic RbPbBr3 NCs at low temperature, which otherwise can only be obtained at high temperature. The inclusion of Cs+ into the RbPbBr3 lattice results in highly photoluminescent Rb1−xCsxPbBr3 NCs. With increasing amounts of Cs+, the band gaps of the Rb1−xCsxPbBr3 NCs decrease, leading to a redshift of the photoluminescence peak. Also, the Rb1−xCsxPbBr3 NCs (x=0.4) show good stability under ambient conditions. This work demonstrates the high structural flexibility and tunability of halide perovskite materials through an A‐site cation substitution strategy and sheds light on the optimization of perovskite materials for application in high‐performance optoelectronic devices.
Synthesis of Linear and V‐Shaped Carbazolyl‐Substituted Pyridine‐3,5‐dicarbonitriles Exhibiting Efficient Bipolar Charge Transport and E‐Type Fluorescence
Authors: Vigante Brigita , Leitonas Karolis , Volyniuk Dmytro , Andruleviciene Viktorija , Simokaitiene Jurate , Ivanova Anna , Bucinskas Audrius , Grazulevicius Juozas V. , Arsenyan Pavel
Published: December 2018

With the aim of developing all‐organic bipolar semiconductors with high charge mobility and efficient E‐type fluorescence (so‐called TADF) as environmentally friendly light‐emitting materials for optoelectronic applications, four noble metals‐free dyes with linear and V‐shapes were designed using accepting pyridine‐3,5‐dicarbonitrile and donating carbazole units. By exploiting a donor‐acceptor design strategy and using moieties with different donating and accepting abilities, TADF emitters with a wide variety of molecular weights were synthesized to achieve the optimum combination of charge‐transporting and fluorescent properties in one TADF molecule. Depending on molecule structures, different TADF emitters capable of emitting in the range from 453 to 550 nm with photoluminescence quantum yields up to 98 % for the solutions in oxygen‐free toluene were obtained. All compounds showed bipolar charge‐transport. Hole mobility of 2.8×10−3 cm2/Vs at 7×105 V cm−1 was observed for the compound containing two di‐tert‐butyl‐substituted carbazole moieties. The compounds were tested in both non‐doped and doped organic light‐emitting diodes using different hosts. It was shown that the developed TADF emitters are suitable for different color devices with electroluminescence ranging from blue to yellow and with brightness, maximum current and external quantum efficiencies exceeding 10 000 cd m−2, 15 cd/A, and 7 %, respectively.
Positive Allosteric Control of Guests Encapsulation by Metal Binding to Covalent Porphyrin Cages
Authors: Djemili Ryan , Kocher Lucas , Durot Stéphanie , Peuronen Anssi , Rissanen Kari , Heitz Valérie
Published: December 2018

The allosteric control of the receptor properties of two flexible covalent cages is reported. These receptors consist of two zinc(II) porphyrins connected by four linkers of two different sizes, each incorporating two 1,2,3‐triazolyl ligands. Silver(I) ions act as effectors, responsible for an on/off encapsulation mechanism of neutral guest molecules. Binding silver(I) ions to the triazoles opens the cages and triggers the coordination of pyrazine or the encapsulation of N,N′‐dibutyl‐1,4,5,8‐naphthalene diimide. The X‐ray structure of the silver(I)‐complexed receptor with short connectors is reported, revealing the hollow structure with a cavity well‐defined by two eclipsed porphyrins. Rather unexpectedly, the crystallographic structure of this receptor with pyrazine as a guest molecule showed that the cavity is occupied by two pyrazines, each binding to the zinc(II) porphyrin in a monotopic fashion.
Comparison of fimasartan and amlodipine therapy on carotid atherosclerotic plaque inflammation
Authors: Oh Minyoung , Lee Cheol Whan , Ahn Jung‐Min , Park Duk‐Woo , Kang Soo‐Jin , Lee Seung‐Whan , Kim Young‐Hak , Moon Dae Hyuk , Park Seong‐Wook , Park Seung‐Jung
Published: December 2018

Background

The renin‐angiotensin system plays an important role in promoting atherosclerotic plaque inflammation, which may be inhibited by angiotension‐II receptor blockers.

Hypothesis

We investigated the effects of fimasartan and amlodipine therapy on carotid atherosclerotic plaque inflammation using 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (18FDG) positron emission tomography (PET) imaging.

Methods

Fifty patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and at least one lesion with 18FDG uptake in the carotid artery (target‐to‐background ratio [TBR] ≥ 1.6) were randomly assigned to receive either fimasartan (60 mg once a day) or amlodipine (5 mg once a day). 18FDG PET examinations were performed in all patients at baseline and 6 months. The primary endpoint was the percent change in the index vessel TBR for the most diseased segment (MDS TBR).

Results

The two groups had similar baseline characteristics. At the 6‐month follow‐up, index vessel and aorta MDS TBR significantly decreased in both groups. However, the percent change in index vessel MDS TBR was similar between the two groups (−9.33 ± 14.2% vs −7.73 ± 19.1%, respectively, P = 0.9). No significant difference was found for the percent change in the whole vessel TBR for the index vessel between the two groups, with similar findings for changes in MDS TBR or whole vessel TBR for the aorta. Total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and blood pressure improved to a similar degree in both groups.

Conclusions

Fimasartan and amlodipine reduce carotid atherosclerotic plaque inflammation similarly in patients with ACS, offering the same level of effectiveness.
Single‐Dose Pharmacokinetic Properties and Relative Bioavailability of Different Formulations of Posaconazole Oral Suspension in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Vuletić Lucija , Herceg Marina , Ferderber Kristina , Tunjić Iva , Rizea‐Savu Simona , Duna Simona Nicoleta , Cetina‐Čižmek Biserka , Filipović‐Grčić Jelena
Published: December 2018

The rate and extent of absorption of drugs belonging to Biopharmaceutics Classification System class II are rate‐limited by dissolution and highly dependent on the performance of the formulated product. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the potential impact of a surfactant and the particle size of the active substance on the in vitro drug dissolution profiles and in vivo pharmacokinetics of the poorly soluble drug posaconazole. A comparative physicochemical evaluation was conducted, and 3 formulations of posaconazole oral suspension were tested in various dissolution media compared with the reference product. In addition, a comparative bioavailability study was conducted in healthy volunteers under high‐fat fed conditions. Bioequivalence was assessed based on plasma concentrations of the parent drug (posaconazole) measured by a validated high‐pressure liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method. The 90% confidence intervals for Cmax and AUC0‐72 least‐squares mean T/R ratios of all 3 posaconazole formulations were within the bioequivalence acceptance range of 80.00% to 125.00%. The study was useful in the formulation development process and demonstrated that neither surfactant type nor particle size of the active substance within the studied range affected the extent or rate of absorption of posaconazole under the tested fed conditions.
Differentiation of Human‐Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Macrophages for Disease Modeling and Functional Genomics
Authors: Shi Jianting , Xue Chenyi , Liu Wen , Zhang Hanrui
Published: December 2018

Macrophages play important roles in many diseases. We describe a protocol and the associated resources for the differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cell‐derived macrophages (IPSDM) and their applications in understanding human macrophage physiology and relevant diseases. The protocol uses an embryoid body–based approach with a combination of serum‐free condition for hematopoiesis specification, followed by adherent culture with serum and M‐CSF for myeloid expansion and macrophage maturation. The protocol produced an almost pure culture of CD45+/CD18+ macrophages yielding up to 2 × 107 cells per 6‐well plate of iPSCs within 24 days, demonstrating high efficiency, purity, and scalability. The IPSDM and monocyte‐derived macrophages (HMDM) cultured in the same medium were compared at morphological, functional and transcriptomic levels by RNA‐sequencing. IPSDM and HMDM showed broadly similar profiles of coding transcriptome, alternative splicing events, and long noncoding RNAs, with advantages and successful applications in disease modeling using patients‐derived and CRISPR‐edited iPSC lines. © 2018 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Selective Primary Alcohol Oxidation of Lignin Streams from Butanol‐Pretreated Agricultural Waste Biomass
Authors: Panovic Isabella , Lancefield Christopher S. , Phillips Darren , Gronnow Mark J. , Westwood Nicholas J.
Published: December 2018

Chemically modified lignins are important for the generation of biomass‐derived materials and as precursors to renewable aromatic monomers. A butanol‐based organosolv pretreatment has been used to convert an abundant agricultural waste product, rice husks, into a cellulose pulp and three additional product streams. One of these streams, a butanol‐modified lignin, was oxidized at the γ position to give a carboxylic acid functionalized material. Subsequent coupling of the acid with aniline aided lignin characterization and served as an example of the flexibility of this approach for grafting side chains onto a lignin core structure. The pretreatment was scaled up for use on a multi‐kilogram scale, a development that enabled the isolation of an anomeric mixture of butoxylated xylose in high purity. The robust and scalable butanosolv pretreatment has been developed further and demonstrates considerable potential for the processing of rice husks.
Supercapacitive Properties of Micropore‐ and Mesopore‐Rich Activated Carbon in Ionic‐Liquid Electrolytes with Various Constituent Ions
Authors: Nguyen Quoc Dat , Patra Jagabandhu , Hsieh Chien‐Te , Li Jianlin , Dong Quan‐Feng , Chang Jeng‐Kuei
Published: December 2018

Ionic‐liquid (IL) electrolytes, characterized by large potential windows, intrinsic ionic conductivity, low environmental hazard, and high safety, are used for micropore‐ and mesopore‐rich activated‐carbon (ACmicro and ACmeso) supercapacitors. IL electrolytes consisting of various cations [1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium (EMI+), N‐propyl‐N‐methylpyrrolidinium (PMP+), and N‐butyl‐N‐methylpyrrolidinium (BMP+)] and various anions [bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (TFSI−), BF4−, and bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (FSI−)] are investigated. The electrolyte conductivity, viscosity, and ion transport properties at the ACmicro and ACmeso electrodes are studied. In addition, the capacitance, rate capability, and cycling stability of the two types of AC electrodes are systematically examined and post‐mortem material analyses are conducted. The effects of IL composition on the charge–discharge capacitances of the ACmicro electrodes are more pronounced than those for the ACmeso electrodes. The FSI‐based IL electrolytes, for which electrochemical properties are cation dependent, are found to be promising. Incorporating EMI+ with FSI− results in a low electrolyte viscosity and a fast ion transport, giving rise to optimized electrode capacitance and rate capability. Replacing EMI+ with PMP+ increases the cell voltage (to 3.5 V) and maximum energy density (to 42 Wh kg−1) of the ACmicro cell at the cost of cycling stability.
Asymmetrical gene flow of the recently delisted passerine black‐capped vireo (Vireo atricapilla) indicates source‐sink dynamics in central Texas
Authors: Hauser Samantha S. , Walker Lauren , Leberg Paul L.
Published: December 2018

Habitat fragmentation can produce metapopulations or source‐sink systems in which dispersal in crucial for population maintenance. Our objective was to investigate connectivity among black‐capped vireo (Vireo atricapilla) populations in tandem with a demographic study (Biological Conservation, 2016, 203, 108–118) to elucidate if central Texas populations act as a source‐sink system. We genotyped 343 individuals at 12 microsatellite loci to elucidate the movement ecology of the black‐capped vireo in central Texas surrounding Fort Hood; the largest and most stable breeding population of black‐capped vireos inhabit Fort Hood. To gain insight into gene flow among populations, we analyzed genetic differentiation, migration rates, number of migrants, and parentage. We found statistically significant, but low levels of genetic differentiation among several populations, suggesting some limited restriction to gene flow. Across approaches to estimate migration, we found consistent evidence for asymmetrical movement from Fort Hood to the other central Texas sites consistent with source‐sink dynamics. Our results are complementary to black‐capped vireo demographic studies done in tandem showing that portions of Fort Hood are acting as a source population to smaller central Texas populations.
Environmental filtering along a broad‐scale acidity gradient shapes the structure of odonate communities
Authors: Arrowsmith Julie , Shivaprakash K. Nagaraju , Larrivée Maxim , Turgeon Julie , Lessard Jean‐Philippe
Published: December 2018

Historical, evolutionary, and ecological processes jointly shape the structure of communities, and the relative influence of such process may vary from one region to another. Nevertheless, much of community ecology focuses on one or several communities in a given region. To assess the relative importance and the context‐dependency of processes shaping communities, studies in community ecology must be conducted across regions and along broad‐scale environmental gradients. Regionally, historical colonization and extinction events, as well as diversification, can influence community structure by shaping the pool of potential community members (i.e., the regional species pool). Locally, a suite of deterministic and stochastic processes can influence community structure. We constructed a large time‐calibrated phylogenetic tree for North American odonates and used analyses of phylogenetic community structure with explicit species pool definitions to assess the predominant processes structuring assemblages along a north–south environmental gradient spanning two biomes and 8° of latitude in eastern Canada. Phylogenetic analyses of 39 lentic (i.e., lake) odonate communities revealed that co‐occurring species were on average more closely related than expected by chance, but only in the temperate biome. In addition, site‐to‐site variation in phylogenetic structure across the temperate and boreal biomes was most strongly related to variation in water pH. The most alkaline lakes were in the temperate biome and were also the most phylogenetically clustered, suggesting that water pH acts as a main environmental filter of odonate communities. An alternative explanation was that the recent radiation of damselflies increased the diversity of this group relative to that of dragonflies in the temperate species pool, thereby leaving a signature of clustering in that biome. However, our comparative null model analyses with explicit species pool definitions at least partially ruled out this explanation. Somewhat contrary to previous hypotheses regarding the assembly of odonate communities, our results suggest that stochastic processes alone cannot account for community structure in odonates and that deterministic, niche‐based processes have a strong influence.
A water acquisition strategy may regulate the biomass and distribution of winter forage species in cold Asian rangeland
Authors: Tanaka‐Oda Ayumi , Endo Izuki , Ohte Nobuhito , Eer Deni , Yamanaka Norikazu , Hirobe Muneto , Nachinshonhor G. U. , Koyama Asuka , Jambal Sergelenkhuu , Katsuyama Masanori , Nakamura Takashi , Matsuo Naoko , Jamsran Undarmaa , Okuro Toshiya , Yoshikawa Ken
Published: December 2018

Aboveground biomass is often restricted by water availability; therefore, water acquisition strategies have important roles in determining biomass volume and distribution under arid conditions. In cold Asian rangelands, the large tussock grass Achnatherum splendens is the most important forage for maintaining livestock under severe winter conditions. However, A. splendens distribution is restricted to the middle of the slopes of ephemeral streams, making it difficult to manage winter foraging. To understand the mechanisms behind the specific distribution and maintenance of a large A. splendens biomass under arid conditions, we established four typical vegetative plots along a riverside slope with different A. splendens density levels and elevations: river bottom with no A. splendens, riverbank with a large A. splendens community, upper slope with an isolated A. splendens community, and flat plain with no A. splendens. We measured the soil pH and electric conductivity (EC) of the plots and investigated the vertical biomass and root distribution of A. splendens. We also investigated the water source for the A. splendens communities using isotope techniques. The soil pH was not different among plots, while the soil EC was significantly higher in the river bottom because of salt accumulation. However, low soil EC levels were found under the A. splendens communities. In the ground below the A. splendens communities, plant stems were buried deeply. The belowground biomass and buried stem depths decreased at the sites of the isolated A. splendens communities in the upper slope. The aboveground biomass of A. splendens increased as the stem burial depths and, therefore, the adventitious roots depths increased. The water source of A. splendens was estimated to be at a depth of more than 30 cm. Thus, A. splendens prefers a habitat with a low level of soil salinity and a high level of water availability, which may increase with the sand burial depth because of the increasing accessibility of a substantial water source in the deeper soil layer. Sand burial may affect the water acquisition strategy and maintenance of large biomasses of tussock grass species that act as important winter forage in cold Asian rangelands.
Sponge density increases with depth throughout the Caribbean
Authors: Lesser Michael P. , Slattery Marc
Published: December 2018

Mesophotic coral reefs (MCEs) are ecologically unique components of coral reef ecosystems that occur at depths from ~30 to 150 m where they support a high number of depth‐endemic species. One ecologically important taxonomic group that can, especially in the Caribbean basin, dominate these habitats are sponges where they occur throughout the shallow (<30 m) to mesophotic depth range. There are an increasing number of studies on MCEs generally, and sponges have become a focal area for many of these studies as they exhibit a number of ecological and functional traits that vary with increasing depth. Here, we use an analysis of both historical and contemporary data to test the recently described “sponges increase with depth” hypothesis. While this hypothesis has recently been rejected without benefit of any quantitative analysis, we show that the density or percent cover of sponges increases over the shallow to mesophotic depth range for multiple reef sites in the Caribbean, and also in the Pacific at selected sites. The proximate cause for this pattern appears to be the increasing availability of trophic resources, and the ability to differentially use those resources, with increasing depth. The increase in sponge density or percent cover with depth is potentially global in nature and results in diverse, and unique, sponge‐dominated communities at mesophotic depths.
Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction: comparison of patient characteristics and clinical outcomes within Asia and between Asia, Europe and the Americas
Authors: Dewan Pooja , Jhund Pardeep S. , Shen Li , Petrie Mark C. , Abraham William T. , Atif Ali M. , Chen Chen‐Huan , Desai Akshay S. , Dickstein Kenneth , Huang Jun , Kiatchoosakun Songsak , Kim Kee‐Sik , Køber Lars , Lai Wen‐Ter , Liao Yuhua , Mogensen Ulrik M. , Oh Byung‐Hee , Packer Milton , Rouleau Jean L. , Shi Victor , Sibulo Antonio S. , Solomon Scott D. , Sritara Piyamitr , Swedberg Karl , Tsutsui Hiroyuki , Zile Michael R. , McMurray John J.V.
Published: December 2018

Aims

Nearly 60% of the world's population lives in Asia but little is known about the characteristics and outcomes of Asian patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) compared to other areas of the world.

Methods and results

We pooled two, large, global trials, with similar design, in 13 174 patients with HFrEF (patient distribution: China 833, India 1390, Japan 209, Korea 223, Philippines 223, Taiwan 199 and Thailand 95, Western Europe 3521, Eastern Europe 4758, North America 613, and Latin America 1110). Asian patients were younger (55.0–63.9 years) than in Western Europe (67.9 years) and North America (66.6 years). Diuretics and devices were used less, and digoxin used more, in Asia. Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist use was higher in China (66.3%), the Philippines (64.1%) and Latin America (62.8%) compared to Europe and North America (range 32.8% to 49.6%). The rate of cardiovascular death/heart failure hospitalization was higher in Asia (e.g. Taiwan 17.2, China 14.9 per 100 patient‐years) than in Western Europe (10.4) and North America (12.8). However, the adjusted risk of cardiovascular death was higher in many Asian countries than in Western Europe (except Japan) and the risk of heart failure hospitalization was lower in India and in the Philippines than in Western Europe, but significantly higher in China, Japan, and Taiwan.

Conclusion

Patient characteristics and outcomes vary between Asia and other regions and between Asian countries. These variations may reflect several factors, including geography, climate and environment, diet and lifestyle, health care systems, genetics and socioeconomic influences.
Medication dosing for heart failure with reduced ejection fraction — opportunities and challenges
Authors: Marti Catherine N. , Fonarow Gregg C. , Anker Stefan D. , Yancy Clyde , Vaduganathan Muthiah , Greene Stephen J. , Ahmed Ali , Januzzi James L. , Gheorghiade Mihai , Filippatos Gerasimos , Butler Javed
Published: December 2018

Multiple drug classes have shown incremental benefits in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. Most of these trials were designed to achieve specific doses of the investigational agent. Clinical practice guidelines recommend using the same target dosing of therapies, as tolerated. However, with the increasing number of available therapies, clinicians face the challenge of simultaneously using several drugs, achieving target doses, and managing side effects that are often overlapping. Blood pressure, renal function, hyperkalaemia, and other factors may impede achieving target doses of all medications, leaving clinicians with dilemmas as to how to sequence and dose these various classes of drugs. The guideline‐directed eligibility for certain drugs and devices requires stability on maximally tolerated doses of background therapies. However, significant variability exists in dosing achieved in clinical practice. We discuss the existing background data regarding the doses of heart failure medications in clinical trials and in practice, and provide recommendations on how to navigate this complex therapeutic decision‐making.
The prognostic value of troponin T and N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide, alone and in combination, in heart failure patients with and without diabetes
Authors: Rørth Rasmus , Jhund Pardeep S. , Kristensen Søren L. , Desai Akshay S. , Køber Lars , Rouleau Jean L. , Solomon Scott D. , Swedberg Karl , Zile Michael R. , Packer Milton , McMurray John J.V.
Published: December 2018

Aims

We examined the prognostic importance of N‐terminal pro B‐type natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP) and troponin T (TnT) in heart failure patients with and without diabetes.

Methods and results

We measured NT‐proBNP and TnT in the biomarker substudy of the Prospective Comparison of ARNI With ACEI to Determine Impact on Global Mortality and Morbidity in Heart Failure trial (PARADIGM‐HF). Of 1907 patients, 759 (40%) had diabetes. Median TnT in patients with diabetes was 18 (interquartile range 11–27) ng/L and 13 (9–21) ng/L in those without (P < 0.001). The TnT frequency‐distribution curve was shifted to the right in patients with diabetes, compared to those without diabetes. By contrast, NT‐proBNP did not differ between patients with and without diabetes. Diabetes and each biomarker were predictive of worse outcomes. Thus, patients with diabetes, an elevated TnT and a NT‐proBNP level in the highest tertile (9% of all patients) had an absolute risk of cardiovascular death or heart failure hospitalization of 265 per 1000 person‐years, compared to a rate of 42 per 1000 person‐years in those without diabetes, a TnT < 18 ng/L and a NT‐proBNP in the lowest tertile (16% of all patients). TnT remained an independent predictor of adverse outcomes in multivariable analyses including NT‐proBNP.

Conclusion

TnT is elevated to a greater extent in heart failure patients with diabetes compared to those without (whereas NT‐proBNP is not). TnT and NT‐proBNP are additive in predicting risk and when combined help identify diabetes patients at extremely high absolute risk.
A Water‐Soluble Ink Based on Diamine Silver(I) Carbonate, Ammonium Formate, and Polyols for Inkjet Printing of Conductive Patterns
Authors: Shabanov Nabi , Chiolerio Alessandro , Isaev Abdulgalim , Amirov Akhmed , Rabadanov Kamil , Akhmedov Akhmed , Asvarov Abil
Published: December 2018

Electronic devices are components used in information and communications technology (ICT) where information is encoded in the electronic charge channel. Among them, those manufactured through digital printing, benefited from a tremendous research effort for the creation of a palette of functionalities provided by solution processed materials, to achieve dielectric, metallic, and semiconductive behavior. The degree of metallicity of available printable inks very seldom goes below the threshold of 200 m⇆/⬜, which is fundamental for the fabrication of high‐quality conductors. Here we describe the formulation of an ink based on a mixture of diamine silver(I) carbonate, ammonium formate, and polyols, providing several physicochemical characterizations and describing the process leading to a sheet resistance below 200 m⇆/⬜ after annealing at 120 °C for 5 minutes.
Phosphorus and Silicon Containing Inorganic Polymer Poly(dimethylsilane H‐phosphonate): Synthesis and NMR Spectroscopic Characterization
Authors: Mitova Violeta , Shestakova Pavletta , Koseva Neli , Troev Kolio
Published: December 2018

In this paper we have demonstrated a new synthetic approach to a phosphorus and silicon containing inorganic polymer with a chain structure [‐O‐P(O)(H)‐O‐Si(CH3)2‐]. It has been obtained from dichlorodimethylsilane and dimethyl ester of H‐phosphonic acid taken in excess via a catalyst and solvent free process, performed in two stages. The first one involved a dealkylation reaction, which was favored by the nucleophilic attack of the chlorine atoms from the silane derivative to the α‐carbon atoms of the dialkyl H‐phosphonate. At the second polycondensation stage, the molecular mass of the product increased. In the present study, dimethyl H‐phosphonate and dichlorodimethylsilane were used at a molar ratio of 1.3:1, and the process was carried out at temperatures up to 65 °C. The structure of the new polymer was proved by multinuclear NMR spectroscopy in solution and in the solid state. The thermal properties of the polymer product were measured.
Stereoselective Syntheses of (+)‐Broussonetine D and (+)‐Australine via a Functionalized Pyrrolidine from an Extended Chiral 1,3‐Oxazine
Authors: Myeong In‐Soo , Ham Won‐Hun
Published: December 2018

The asymmetric syntheses of (+)‐broussonetine D and (+)‐australine have been achieved via a functionalized pyrrolidine obtained from an extended chiral 1,3‐oxazine. The key steps include pyrrolidine formation by oxazine cleavage and diastereoselective allylation to a pyrrolidine aldehyde. (+)‐Broussonetine D and (+)‐australine were synthesized from anti,syn,syn‐oxazine, in six steps, with an overall yield of 22.2 %, and in seven steps, with an overall yield of 33.2 %.
One‐step Electrodeposition of Tris(hydroxymethyl) Aminomethane – Prussian Blue on Screen‐printed Electrode for Highly Efficient Detection of Glycosylated Hemoglobin
Authors: Shi Qianwei , Teng Yuanjie , Hu Zhenzhen , Zhang Yuchao , Liu Wenhan
Published: December 2018

In this work, the modified Prussian blue (PB) film showed more stable performance in alkaline solution by one‐step electrodepositon of PB with tris(hydroxymethyl) aminomethane (Tris) on screen‐printed electrode (SPE). The morphology and structure of the modified Tris‐PB/SPE was characterized by scanning electronic microscopy, infra spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction. It was inferred that the Tris particles embedded in the PB deposit layer resulted in the change of PB structure and improve its stability in alkaline solution. And then, the modified Tris‐PB/SPE was applied in the detection of Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c). The optimum experimental conditions are pH 7.5, 100 mV/s, 4 μL FAOD and 5 min reaction time. The linearship of HbA1c is i=22.90 C+101.9 in the range of 0.1–2 mmol/L. Comparing with PB/SPE, Tris‐PB/SPE shows better sensitivity and recovery.
Synthesis and characterization of gold nanoparticles using Hypericum perforatum and Nettle aqueous extracts: A comparison with turkevich method
Authors: Jafarizad Abbas , Safaee Khadijeh , Vahid Behrouz , Khataee Alireza , Ekinci Duygu
Published: December 2018

Here, the preparation of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) was presented using two different approaches. The first process is the usage of eco‐friendly green synthesis and the second approach is the conventional Turkevich method. For the green synthesis of nanoparticles, the Hypericum perforatum and Nettle plant extracts were used as reducing and stabilizing agents. The main constituents of the plant extracts were identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) technique. The synthesized AuNPs were characterized by UV–vis absorption spectroscopy (UV–vis), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Also, the stabilities of the AuNPs were investigated in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) media. In comparison, the AuNPs prepared using green synthesis have been observed to be smaller and more stable than those prepared using the Turkevich method. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: 508–517, 2019
The role of fork stalling and DNA structures in causing chromosome fragility
Authors: Kaushal Simran , Freudenreich Catherine H.
Published: December 2018

Alternative non‐B form DNA structures, also called secondary structures, can form in certain DNA sequences under conditions that produce single‐stranded DNA, such as during replication, transcription, and repair. Direct links between secondary structure formation, replication fork stalling, and genomic instability have been found for many repeated DNA sequences that cause disease when they expand. Common fragile sites (CFSs) are known to be AT‐rich and break under replication stress, yet the molecular basis for their fragility is still being investigated. Over the past several years, new evidence has linked both the formation of secondary structures and transcription to fork stalling and fragility of CFSs. How these two events may synergize to cause fragility and the role of nuclease cleavage at secondary structures in rare and CFSs are discussed here. We also highlight evidence for a new hypothesis that secondary structures at CFSs not only initiate fragility but also inhibit healing, resulting in their characteristic appearance.
Linear mixed models for association analysis of quantitative traits with next‐generation sequencing data
Authors: Chiu Chi‐yang , Yuan Fang , Zhang Bing‐song , Yuan Ao , Li Xin , Fang Hong‐Bin , Lange Kenneth , Weeks Daniel E. , Wilson Alexander F. , Bailey‐Wilson Joan E. , Musolf Anthony M. , Stambolian Dwight , Lakhal‐Chaieb M'Hamed Lajmi , Cook Richard J. , McMahon Francis J. , Amos Christopher I. , Xiong Momiao , Fan Ruzong
Published: December 2018

We develop linear mixed models (LMMs) and functional linear mixed models (FLMMs) for gene‐based tests of association between a quantitative trait and genetic variants on pedigrees. The effects of a major gene are modeled as a fixed effect, the contributions of polygenes are modeled as a random effect, and the correlations of pedigree members are modeled via inbreeding/kinship coefficients. ‐statistics and
χ
2 likelihood ratio test (LRT) statistics based on the LMMs and FLMMs are constructed to test for association. We show empirically that the ‐distributed statistics provide a good control of the type I error rate. The ‐test statistics of the LMMs have similar or higher power than the FLMMs, kernel‐based famSKAT (family‐based sequence kernel association test), and burden test famBT (family‐based burden test). The ‐statistics of the FLMMs perform well when analyzing a combination of rare and common variants. For small samples, the LRT statistics of the FLMMs control the type I error rate well at the nominal levels and . For moderate/large samples, the LRT statistics of the FLMMs control the type I error rates well. The LRT statistics of the LMMs can lead to inflated type I error rates. The proposed models are useful in whole genome and whole exome association studies of complex traits.
Geochemical and geological characteristics of the granitic batholith and Yuku concealed Mo–W deposit at the southern margin of the North China Craton
Authors: Guo Bo , Yan Changhai , Zhang Shouting , Han Jiangwei , Yun Hui , Tan Heyong , Song Qinchang , Meng Fanxue
Published: December 2018

Integrated gravity and magnetic prospecting in the Luanchuan ore cluster by the Henan Institute of Geological Survey has led to the recent discovery of the Yuku concealed porphyry Mo–W deposit. This research focuses on the geological, geochemical, and chronological features of the Yuku deposit, and it discusses the genesis of the deposit and its associated concealed granitic batholith. Skarn and/or hornfels occur in the contact zone between the granitic batholith and the wall rocks. The Mo mineralization is mostly hosted in porphyritic granites, whereas the large Mo–W deposits of the area (e.g., the Nannihu–Sandaozhuang Mo–W deposit) are mostly hosted in the skarn and hornfels. The laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) zircon U–Pb dating constrained three episodes of magmatic emplacement: (a) the porphyritic biotite monzogranite at 153.1 ± 1.2 Ma, (b) the ore‐causative porphyritic syenogranite at 147.1 ± 1.3 to 148.0 ± 1.6 Ma, and (c) the last porphyritic monzogranite at 130.0 ± 1.3 Ma. The granitic batholiths have high contents of SiO2, Al2O3, and K2O + Na2O, obvious fractionation between the light and heavy rare earth elements [(La/Yb)N = 17.3–37.3], a negative Eu anomaly (δEu = 0.62–0.84), enrichment in Rb, Th, U, and Sr, and depletion of P and Ti. These features indicate the fractionation of plagioclase, amphibole, garnet, and rutile from the primary magmas or as residues in the source. The εHf(t) isotopic values of the zircons are concentrated between −21 and −13, with corresponding two‐stage model ages (tDM2) between 2.1 and 1.7 Ga. The above characteristics indicate that the granitic batholiths were derived from the partial melting of the thickened lower crust during the Mesozoic to Cenozoic. The ore‐forming fluids emplaced in the contact zone between the batholith and the wall rocks resulted in the metasomatic alteration and the deposition of Mo–W mineralization.
Peraluminous granitoid magmatism from isotopically depleted sources: The case of Jing'erquanbei pluton in Eastern Tianshan, Northwest China
Authors: Muhtar M.N. , Wu Chang‐Zhi , Santosh M. , Lei Ru‐Xiong , Feng Yonggan , Yang Tao , Ye Hui , Gu Lian‐Xing
Published: December 2018

The Eastern Tianshan region is a critical segment of the Central Asian Orogenic Belt (CAOB), one of the largest Phanerozoic accretionary orogenic belts in the world. Several pulses of isotopically depleted Late Palaeozoic calc‐alkaline and high‐K calc‐alkaline granitoid magmatism are known to be associated with the collisional orogeny in the CAOB. However, no systematic studies have been conducted on the peraluminous granites that were formed during the Late Palaeozoic collisional orogeny in Eastern Tianshan. Here, we present major and trace element characteristics, whole‐rock Sr–Nd isotopes, and zircon U–Pb and Lu–Hf data from the Jing'erquanbei pluton in the eastern part of Eastern Tianshan. Zircon grains from the granite yield a weighted mean U–Pb age of 250 ± 4 Ma, which is consistent with the previously determined 40Ar–39Ar age of muscovite in the associated ore body, suggesting Late Permian magmatism. The pluton shows a wide range of Sr isotope ratios (87Sr/86Sr = 0.705777–1.308836) but depleted Nd (εNd(t) = +6.71 to +8.21) and Hf (εHf (t) = +12.6 to +14.6) isotopic values. The Nd and Hf isotopic values are also consistent with the Nd and Hf isotopic values of the Carboniferous mafic volcanics (εNd(t) = +5.50 to +9.66, εHf (t) = +6.3 to +13.2) in Eastern Tianshan. The whole‐rock Nd model age (TDM2 = 350–480 Ma) and zircon Hf model age (TDM2 = 342–451 Ma) as well as the Carboniferous inherited zircon (341 ± 5 Ma) suggest that original magma was derived from young and depleted juvenile crust source. The granite is characterized by high SiO2 (74.50%–75.80%), enriched alkali contents with high sodium values (K2O + Na2O = 5.65%–8.20%, Na2O/K2O = 1.24–2.74), concentration of peraluminous elements (Al2O3/(CaO + Na2O + K2O) [A/CNK] = 1.18–1.24), high large‐ion lithophile element content, low Nb/Ta (9.97–10.64) ratio, variable Rb/Sr (0.18–16.11) ratios, and negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.05–0.81). These features suggest that some minerals, such as biotite, plagioclase, and apatite, underwent fractional crystallization during the formation and evolution of the pluton. Considering the regional magmatic activity as well as tectonic evolution, we speculate that peraluminous granites of the Huangshan–Jing'erquan area of Eastern Tianshan were generated during the postcollisional extension in the Late Permian. Dehydration and melting of the Carboniferous mafic volcanics through heat input from mafic–ultramafic magma in the Middle Permian is considered to have generated the peraluminous granites.
Petrogenesis of lamprophyres synchronous to kimberlites from the Wajrakarur kimberlite field: Implications for contrasting lithospheric mantle sources and geodynamic evolution of the eastern Dharwar Craton of southern India
Authors: Khan Sahroz , Dongre Ashish , Viljoen Fanus , Li Qiu‐Li , Le Roux Petrus
Published: December 2018

Kimberlite field is an example of widespread Mesoproterozoic intracontinental magmatism. Recent studies have identified deep subcontinental lithospheric mantle as a source region of the kimberlite magmatism while timing, origin, and processes responsible for the generation of coeval lamprophyres remain poorly constrained. Here, we present and discuss new petrological and geochemical data for two lamprophyre dykes from the Wajrakarur kimberlite field and assess their petrogenetic relation to the kimberlite occurrences. Based on mineral compositional and whole‐rock geochemical characters, it is suggested that lamprophyres are formed through low degrees of partial melting of “enriched” lithospheric mantle that was modified and metasomatized by melts derived from recycled crust. This differs from geochemical imprints found in coeval kimberlites, where a crustal source component appears to be absent and is more consistent with rock derivation from “depleted” lithosphere which has experienced interaction with asthenosphere‐derived melts. An apparent lack of garnet in the mantle sources of lamprophyres is suggestive of melting at comparatively shallow depth (~100 km) relative to the kimberlites. Hence, these geochemically contrasting rocks, although have formed at the same time, are derived from vertically heterogeneous lithospheric mantle sources and can be explained through and linked with a thermal anomaly in the underlying convective asthenosphere. We suggest that the deeper mantle source region of the kimberlites was more pristine and devoid of subduction‐related signatures, whereas the shallower mantle source region of the lamprophyres seems to have preserved imprints of plate convergence and subduction associated with the evolution of the Dharwar Craton.
Values of fine‐needle aspiration cytology of parotid gland tumors: A review of 996 cases at a single institution
Authors: Suzuki Manabu , Kawata Ryo , Higashino Masaaki , Nishikawa Shuji , Terada Tetsuya , Haginomori Shin‐Ichi , Kurisu Yoshitaka , Hirose Yoshinobu
Published: December 2018

Background

We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in a large series of benign and malignant parotid tumors.

Methods

The FNAC diagnosis of 821 benign and 175 malignant parotid tumors managed at our department between 1999 and 2017 was correlated with the final histology.

Results

FNAC made a correct histopathological diagnosis in 72% of the benign parotid tumors; however, FNAC provided a correct grade in only 34% of the malignant tumors. FNAC correctly identified the histology of 94% of pleomorphic adenomas subsequently confirmed by histopathological examination. The sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of FNAC for detecting malignancy were 82.3%, 98.7%, and 95.9%, respectively.

Conclusion

FNAC generally provided the correct histological diagnosis for benign tumors. However, the histological evaluation and grading of malignant tumors were poor. Although FNAC showed good sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy, its sensitivity decreased when nondiagnostic cases were included in the analysis.
Utility of adjuvant chemotherapy in patients receiving surgery and adjuvant radiotherapy for primary treatment of esthesioneuroblastoma
Authors: Miller Kevin C. , Marinelli John P. , Van Gompel Jamie J. , Link Michael J. , Janus Jeffrey R. , Foote Robert L. , Price Katharine A. , Garcia Joaquin , Rivera Michael , Chintakuntlawar Ashish V.
Published: December 2018

Background

Past research established that surgery plus adjuvant radiotherapy (S + AR) improves overall survival (OS) in esthesioneuroblastoma (ENB). However, it is unknown if the addition of adjuvant chemotherapy (AC) further improves survival. The primary objective of this study was to compare survival among patients treated with S + AR alone to patients who underwent S + AR + AC.

Methods

Retrospective review of patient records.

Results

Thirty‐eight patients met inclusion criteria for either S + AR or S + AR + AC treatment groups. The S + AR + AC group contained more patients with Kadish stage D disease, dural invasion, and positive histologic margins postsurgery. All S + AR + AC patients received platinum‐based regimens, combined with etoposide in 67%. OS and recurrence‐free survival did not differ between the two groups, even when restricting the analysis to patients with Kadish stages B and C disease.

Conclusion

Patients who received platinum‐based AC did not exhibit improved survival compared to S + AR alone. Further investigation, preferably prospective, into the optimal use of systemic therapy in ENB is warranted.
Changes in monthly baseflow across the U.S. Midwest
Authors: Ayers Jessica R. , Villarini Gabriele , Jones Christopher , Schilling Keith
Published: December 2018

Characterizing streamflow changes in the agricultural U.S. Midwest is critical for effective planning and management of water resources throughout the region. The objective of this study is to determine if and how baseflow has responded to land alteration and climate changes across the study area during the 50‐year study period by exploring hydrologic variations based on long‐term stream gage data. This study evaluates monthly contributions to annual baseflow along with possible trends over the 1966–2016 period for 458 U.S. Geological Survey streamflow gages within 12 different Midwestern states. It also examines the influence of climate and land use factors on the observed baseflow trends. Monthly contribution breakdowns demonstrate how the majority of baseflow is discharged into streams during the spring months (March, April, and May) and is overall more substantial throughout the spring (especially in April) and summer (June, July, and August). Baseflow has not remained constant over the study period, and the results of the trend detection from the Mann–Kendall test reveal that baseflows have increased and are the strongest from May to September. This analysis is confirmed by quantile regression, which suggests that for most of the year, the largest changes are detected in the central part of the distribution. Although increasing baseflow trends are widespread throughout the region, decreasing trends are few and limited to Kansas and Nebraska. Further analysis reveals that baseflow changes are being driven by both climate and land use change across the region. Increasing trends in baseflow are linked to increases in precipitation throughout the year and are most prominent during May and June. Changes in agricultural intensity (in terms of harvested corn and soybean acreage) are linked to increasing trends in the central and western Midwest, whereas increasing temperatures may lead to decreasing baseflow trends in spring and summer in northern Wisconsin, Kansas, and Nebraska.