bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wetland buffers are no substitute for landscape‐scale conservation
Authors: Sawatzky Margaret E. , Fahrig Lenore
Published: April 2019

Wetlands in farmland are at risk of contamination by fertilizers and pesticides. One recommendation for reducing wetland contamination is to maintain a buffer of contiguous uncropped land around the wetland (a wetland buffer). Many agricultural water protection policies around the world recommend 5 to 50‐m wide uncropped buffers around water bodies, but it is unclear how large wetland buffers must be to effectively protect against these chemicals. In addition, it is unclear whether wetland buffers have similar—or stronger—effects on fertilizer and pesticide contamination than reducing the amount of cropped land within the larger landscape context around wetlands. Our study, conducted across 37 wetlands in eastern Ontario, Canada, addressed the following questions: (1) Does increasing buffer width, or increasing the amount of contiguous uncropped land within recommended buffer width guidelines, reduce nutrient and pesticide levels in agricultural wetlands? (2) Does increasing uncropped land cover in the broader landscape reduce nutrient and pesticide levels in agricultural wetlands? and (3) What is the relative importance of buffer size and landscape‐scale uncropped cover for reducing nutrient and pesticide levels in agricultural wetlands? A rigorous site selection process was employed to minimize the correlation between buffer size and landscape‐scale uncropped cover, minimize spatial gradients in these predictor variables, and minimize variation in potentially confounding variables. We obtained nutrient and pesticide data by collecting water samples from each wetland under similar weather conditions in June–July 2015. Nitrate concentrations were measured using ion chromatography, and atrazine and neonicotinoid (pesticide) concentrations using a combination of high‐performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. We found that nitrate, atrazine, and neonicotinoid concentrations in study wetlands were unaffected by wetland buffer size. However, concentrations of each chemical decreased with uncropped land cover in the surrounding 150 to 300‐m radius landscapes. To effectively protect water in agricultural wetlands from contamination by nitrate‐based fertilizers and atrazine or neonicotinoid pesticides, we recommend either increasing the policy‐recommended width of wetland buffers to at least 150 m, or abandoning the buffer paradigm in favor of landscape‐scale conservation.
To forage or flee: lessons from an elk migration near a protected area
Authors: Mikle Nate L. , Graves Tabitha A. , Olexa Edward M.
Published: April 2019

Alteration of wide‐ranging wildlife migrations can drastically impact the structure and function of ecosystems, yet the causes and consequences of shifting migration patterns remain largely unknown. Management decisions made in one portion of a landscape may induce spatial and temporal shifts of wildlife use in another, creating tension among private, state, and federal lands with varying missions. Recent declines in migratory behavior have initiated studies focused primarily on spring migration, but the timing and benefits of autumn migration have received limited attention due to the difficulty in assessing the extreme asynchrony in autumnal events, although nutrition during this time period is crucial to winter survival and reproduction. Here, we used five years of data from 73 female elk (Cervus canadensis) which utilize a landscape managed by 4 federal agencies, a state, and private landowners, to identify the driving factors behind the initiation of fall migration in two subpopulations, one of which migrates to a protected area where hunting is prohibited. Most elk departed summer range prior to frost or snow, with 67% of elk that used the protected area migrating prior to the onset of archery hunting season (1 September), preemptively avoiding risk, while no elk from the other subpopulation left prior to archery season. However, departure from productive summer range prior to frost or snow, nearly two months before vegetation senescence, led to an important tradeoff. Early migrants gave up 0.30% of late summer‐fall integratedNDVI(iNDVI) per day when they moved to the safety of the protected area, leading to an average difference of 15.81% iniNDVIbetween an individual departing on 30 August (the mean departure date) vs. an individual departing on 1 November. Our results suggest that in areas where migratory ungulates span multiple jurisdictions, the benefits of migratory behavior may be dramatically impacted by unevenly distributed anthropogenic disturbance. As this is a common scenario globally, our work highlights the urgent need to improve our understanding of subtle changes in migratory behavior, both spatially and temporally, which may erode the resilience of migration to future change.
Synthesis of (trans‐A2)BC‐Type Porphyrins with Acceptor Diethoxyphosphoryl and Various Donor Groups and their Assembling in the Solid State and at Interfaces
Authors: Ermakova Elizaveta V. , Enakieva Yulia Yu. , Nefedov Sergey E. , Arslanov Vladimir V. , Gorbunova Yulia G. , Tsivadze Aslan Yu. , Stern Christine , Bessmertnykh‐Lemeune Alla
Published: April 2019

A versatile synthetic approach to accessing unsymmetrically substituted (trans‐A2)BC‐type porphyrins bearing two heteroatoms at the macrocycle periphery is developed. For this purpose, experimental conditions for the substitution of the bromine atom in zinc 5‐bromo‐15‐(diethoxyphosphoryl)‐10,20‐diphenylporphyin (2) by S‐, O‐, and N‐nucleophiles were explored. SNAr reactions afford AlkO‐, ArO‐, and AlkS‐substituted porphyrins in good to high yields. In contrast, SNAr reactions of 2 with N‐nucleophiles lead to meso‐amino‐substituted porphyrins in preparative yields only with cyclic secondary amines. Primary amines, anilines and azacrowns may also react with bromide 2 but the palladium catalyst is needed to obtain the products in acceptable yields. The interest of the compounds under investigation for biomimetic assembly of tetrapyrroles was demonstrated by the studies of self‐assembly of ditopic morpholinyl‐substituted porphyrin 5a in the solid state. Moreover, we have prepared emissive porphyrin monolayers at the air/water interface and revealed that these porphyrin films were suitable for detection of zinc(II) ions in aqueous solutions.
Advances in The Catalytic Synthesis of Triarylmethanes (TRAMs)
Authors: Kshatriya Rajpratap , Jejurkar Valmik P. , Saha Satyajit
Published: April 2019

The last couple of decades has witnessed an incredible development in the progress of catalytic creation of triarylmethane (TRAM) motif. The broad‐spectrum applications of TRAMs in domains like medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, dyes, and functional materials has urged scientists to invent their efficient synthetic strategies. Herein, we have attempted to comprehensively document the catalytic methodologies for the synthesis of triarylmethanes which will satiate the anticipations of the readers who are looking for an update and stimulate the researches for further development.
A Complete Electroenzymatic Choline Microprobe Based on Nanostructured Platinum Microelectrodes and an IrOx On‐probe Reference Electrode
Authors: Wang Bo , Feng Lili , Koo Bonhye , Monbouquette Harold G.
Published: April 2019

A microelectrode array microprobe with a choline sensing site and an on‐probe reference electrode was constructed by depositing permselective polymer films and choline oxidase (ChOx) on one microelectrode, and iridium oxide (IrOx) on another, both of which were coated previously with a nanostructured Pt deposit. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the nanostructured Pt layer revealed a unique pillar‐like, “nanograss” structure. Polyphenylenediamine (PPD) and Nafion were coated sequentially on the working (i. e. sensing) electrode surface to serve as the permselective polymer films. The microsensor exhibited high sensitivity to choline (123±13 μA mM−1 cm−2), low detection limit (3.2±0.8 μM), and fast response time (3–5 s). The choline sensor also was tested at physiological concentrations of electroactive interfering species common to brain extracellular fluid (i. e. ascorbic acid, dopamine, DOPA, and DOPAC) and showed excellent selectivity. Selectivity likely was aided by the relatively low potential of 0.35 V vs. IrOx that was made possible by the enhanced H2O2 electrooxidation activity of the underlying nanostructured Pt‐coated working electrode. Thus, Pt “nanograss” appears to be an excellent electrode surface modification for creation of high performance electroenzymatic biosensors.
Optimization methods using artificial intelligence algorithms to estimate thermal efficiency of PV/T system
Authors: Zamen Mohammad , Baghban Alireza , Pourkiaei S. Mohsen , Ahmadi Mohammad Hossein
Published: April 2019

Renewable energies, specifically solar energy has been employed in numerous applications while being CO2 emission free energy in comparison with fossil fuel resources. The main purpose of this study is to predict thermal efficiency of photovoltaic‐thermal (PV/T) setups in regard with input temperature, recirculation flow rate, and solar irradiation by modifying multilayer perceptron artificial neural network (MLP‐ANN), adaptive neuro‐fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), and least squares support vector machine (LSSVM) approaches. For this goal, more than 100 empirical measurements were performed on a fabricated water‐cooled PV/T setup. Several numerical analyses are also carried out to assess the validity of the presented models. It is confirmed that there is a great agreement between predictive models and actual data. The proposed ANN model provided the best performance due to the mean squared error (MSE) and determination coefficient (R2) values of 0.009 and 1.00, respectively. Also, numerical comparisons with other recently developed models were performed.
Development of a damage rheological model and its application in the analysis of mechanical properties of jointed rock masses
Authors: Yang Wendong , Luo Guangyu , Duan Kang , Jing Wenjun , Zhang Lianzhen , Wang Shugang , Zhao Yan
Published: April 2019

Fossil fuel resources (eg, coal, oil, and natural gas) exist in underground reservoirs, where discontinuities are widespread and influence the stability of rock structures. The mechanical behavior of jointed rock masses significantly affects the long‐term stability of rock engineering. A major challenge in this area is to link the time‐dependent deformation with damage influence induced by distribution of joints in rock masses. In this paper, a damage mechanical theory is adopted which deals with several groups of joints distributed in rock masses. Based on the geometrical distribution of joints, a damage model considering the influence of normal vector and area density of joints is used to describe the discontinuities. A damage rheological model for jointed rock masses is developed and programmed in the finite difference software FLAC3D, and an example of jointed rock masses is used to verify the validity of the model. The damage rheological model could predict the visco‐elastic strain which corresponds to primary creep property, visco‐plastic strain which corresponds to steady state creep property, and damage strain which reflects the damage effect of joints to rock masses. Finally, we use this model to predict the displacements and damage zones in the rock masses surrounding an underground opening.
Rock strength criterion considering the effect of hydrostatic stress on lode angle effect
Authors: Song Zhenlong , Li Minghui , Yin Guangzhi , Ranjith Pathegama Gamage , Liu Chao
Published: April 2019

Rock strength criterion is a basic subject in mining engineering and petroleum engineering. It has important guiding significances to the process of underground energy exploitation. Different rocks have different strength envelopes. Most strength criteria have only one type of envelope in π plan. Thus, these criteria cannot predict different rock strengths accurately. Most criteria consider only the hydrostatic stress and the Lode angle effects and neglect their interaction. However, based on the experimental results in this study, there is an evident interaction between the two effects. In this study, a new strength criterion is proposed considering the hydrostatic stress and Lode angle effects, as well as the effect of hydrostatic stress on the Lode angle effect. Applicable results of previous experimental data showed that the proposed strength criterion has good applicability for different rocks. Compared with other strength criteria, this criterion has the advantage of being able to adjust the strength of the Lode angle effect based on the hydrostatic stress. This advantage allows the strength criterion to show different types of strength envelopes in the π plan and to accommodate different rocks under different stress states. The effect of hydrostatic stress on the Lode angle effect of rock may be caused by the proportion of particles destroyed in the rock.
Developmental characteristics and distribution law of fractures in a tight sandstone reservoir in a low‐amplitude tectonic zone, eastern Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Yin Shuai , Tian Tao , Wu Zhonghu
Published: April 2019

In recent years, a large number of vertical and horizontal sliding fractures were found in the Upper Palaeozoic sandstones in the eastern margin of the Ordos Basin, China, However, the effect of fractures on the distribution of tight sandstone gas is still unclear. Therefore, in this paper, a large number of cores, thin sections, petrophysical property test results, conventional and FMI (Formation MicroScanner Image) image logs, and gas‐testing results were used to study the developmental characteristics of fractures and the gas control effects in a tight sandstone reservoir, in the eastern margin of the Ordos Basin. It was found that the average linear density of the core fractures is generally less than 2 m−1, and the microfractures are characterized as ruptures of quartz particles. The underlying Taiyuan and Benxi formations have the highest fracture development degrees, and the fracture index (FI) values are 0.68 and 0.72, respectively. However, the fracture development degrees in the overlying Shanxi to Shiqianfeng formations are significantly lower, and the FI values are generally less than 0.63. There is a good positive correlation between the fracture development degree and the contents of quartz mineral or brittle minerals (quartz + feldspar). On the whole, the fractures in the uplift and slope parts of the low‐amplitude structure areas are more developed, while in the depression zones, the fractures are generally less developed. The fractures in the Zijinshan Uplift area are extremely well developed; thus, the preservation conditions of the reservoir are poor. In this case, the fractures are unfavourable for the accumulation of natural gas. For the gentle tectonic zones, the over‐developed fractures in the Benxi and Taiyuan formations are unfavourable for the preservation of natural gas. However, the moderately developed fractures in the overlying Shanxi to Shiqianfeng formations are beneficial to the enrichment of natural gas. Finally, we compared the relationship between fracture index (FI) and open‐flow productivity of the gas wells, and it was found that FI values of commercial gas wells (Types I, II, and III gas wells) are generally greater than 0.55, while the FI values of Type IV low‐yield gas wells are generally less than 0.55.
Molecular Orientation Effects in Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Marcato Tommaso , Shih Chih‐Jen
Published: April 2019

It is well known that by horizontally aligning the transition dipole moments of exciton dipoles in the emitter films of organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), a larger fraction of the radiative power can escape from the OLED stack, increasing the light outcoupling efficiency by up to 50 % compared to the isotropic counterparts. In this account, we review recent advances in understanding this phenomenon, with a special focus on the practical strategies to control the molecular orientation in vacuum‐deposited films of thermally activated delayed fluorescent (TADF) dyes. The role of molecular orientation in efficient OLED design is discussed, which has been experimentally proven to increase the external quantum efficiency exceeding 30 %. We outline the future challenges and perspectives in this field, including the potential to extend the concept to the solution‐processed films. Finally, the development of multiscale computer simulations is reviewed to assess their potential as a complementary approach to systematically screening OLED molecules in silico.
Formative research for the development of an Eye Health Strategic Planning and Evaluation Framework and a Checklist: A health systems approach
Authors: Ormsby Gail M.
Published: April 2019

This formative research process aimed to develop an Eye Health Strategic Planning and Evaluation Framework and indicator Checklist. The research process utilized a multi‐phased multiple methods approach including literature review, initial expert review (n = 27), findings from a Cambodian Avoidable Blindness Initiative demonstration project (2009‐2012), observation and analysis of four rural sites of the Indian LV Prasad Eye Institute Pyramid Model (n = 21), and finally, a critique by Cambodian government eye health professionals/staff (n = 15), health center staff and community representatives (n = 77) and patients (n = 62). Results from three Cambodian population‐based surveys (KAP n = 599, patient follow‐up n = 354, and RAAB 4650) also informed the development of the Framework and the Checklist. The Framework domains include: situation analysis, determinants of accessibility, service delivery systems, operation systems, networks and linkages, outcomes, and impact. Domains were subdivided into 59 components. The Checklist consists of 253 indicator items. The Eye Health Strategic Planning and Evaluation Framework and the Checklist can assist policy makers, program planners, and evaluators to develop a comprehensive whole of systems approach to eye health care to improve coverage and utilization of services.
Hospital volume and outcomes for inpatients with acute myocardial infarction in Shanxi, China: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ni Ziling , Lin Xiaojun , Wang Ying , Jiang Tianyu , Tao Hongbing
Published: April 2019

In this cross‐sectional study, we assessed the relationship between hospital volume and clinical outcomes for inpatients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in tertiary A hospitals in Shanxi, China (N = 12 931). In‐hospital mortality, length of stay (LOS), and total cost were measured. The crude in‐hospital mortality rate was 1.69%. Adjusted in‐hospital mortality was significantly lower for medium‐volume hospitals (odds ratio (OR) = 0.605, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.411‐0.900) compared with low‐volume hospitals. LOS in medium‐ and high‐volume hospitals were 0.915 (95% CI = 0.880‐0.951) and 1.069 (95% CI = 1.041‐1.098) days longer than in low‐volume hospitals, respectively. The cost of inpatients attending low‐ and high‐volume hospitals (OR = 1.180, 95% CI = 1.140‐1.221) was higher than that of medium‐volume hospitals (OR = 0.897, 95% CI = 0.868‐0.926). These results inform health care policy in countries with strained medical resources.
Prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension in a small northern town in Nicaragua: The Elieth‐HIFARI study
Authors: Valladares Marion Jose , Rodríguez Sándigo Noel A. , Rizo Rivera Ginner O. , Rodríguez Jarquín Marco A. , Rivera Castillo Rosse M. , López Bonilla Indiana M.
Published: April 2019

Background and aims

Hypertension is considered the most important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and is associated with high levels of morbidity, mortality, and health care expenditure. The negative effects of hypertension and its complications are preventable if those at risk are appropriately treated and controlled. Continually monitoring the epidemiological trends of hypertension is essential to formulate and evaluate public health measures to limit its negative effects. The herein presented Elieth‐HIFARI study sought to estimate the prevalence of hypertension, as well as the prevalence of related awareness, treatment, and control in a small town in Central America.

Methods

A population survey to assess cardiovascular risk was conducted (n = 577, 55.3% women, mean age 42.4 years) in the municipality of San Rafael del Norte in northern Nicaragua, between November 2016 and March 2017, based on the STEPwise method by the World Health Organization and the recommendations by the World Hypertension League.

Results

The overall prevalence of hypertension, awareness, treatment, and control was 28.1%, 72.2%, 68.5%, and 36.4%, respectively. Men had a lower prevalence of all indicators (22.5%, 60.3%, 53.4%, and 24.1%, respectively) compared with women (32.6%, 78.8%, 76.9%, and 43.3%, respectively). The median systolic blood pressure was 118.5 mm Hg (20.5 interquartile range [IQR]) (men: 123.0 mm Hg vs women: 115.5 mm Hg, Mann‐Whitney U testP < .001), and the mean diastolic blood pressure was 78.0 mm Hg (13 IQR) (men: 77.0, women: 78.0).

Conclusion

Hypertension is highly prevalent in San Rafael del Norte, while control rates are low despite the relatively higher levels of awareness and treatment. Furthermore, women have much higher prevalence of hypertension than men, along with higher awareness, treatment, and control. However, the control rate for those treated for hypertension was low, irrespective of sex.
Mutagenicity of Helicobacter hepaticus infection in the lower bowel mucosa of 129/SvEv Rag2−/‐Il10−/−gpt delta mice is influenced by sex
Authors: Ge Zhongming , Feng Yan , Sheh Alexander , Muthupalani Sureshkumar , Gong Guanyu , Chawanthayatham Supawadee , Essigmann John M. , Fox James G.
Published: April 2019

Inflammatory bowel disease and colonic tumors induced by Helicobacter hepaticus (Hh) infection in susceptible mouse strains are utilized to dissect the mechanisms underlying similar human diseases. In our study, infection with genotoxic cytolethal distending toxin‐producing Hh in 129/SvEv Rag2−/‐Il10−/− gpt delta (RagIl10gpt) mice of both sexes for 21 weeks induced significantly more severe cecal and colonic pathology compared to uninfected controls. The mutation frequencies in the infected RagIl10gpt males were 2.1‐fold higher for the cecum and 1.7‐fold higher for the colon than male RagIl10gpt controls. In addition, there was a 12.5‐fold increase of G:C‐to‐T:A transversions in the colon of Hh‐infected males compared to controls. In contrast, there was no statistical significance in mutation frequencies between infected female Rag2Il10gpt mice and controls. Moreover, Hh infection in RagIl10gpt males significantly up‐regulated transcription of Tnfα and iNos, and decreased mRNA levels of cecal Atm compared to the infected females; there was no significant difference in mRNA levels of Il‐22, Il‐17A, Ifnγ and Atr between the infected males and females. Significantly higher levels of cecal and colonic iNos expression and γH2AX‐positive epithelial cells (a biomarker for double‐strand DNA breaks [DSB]) in Hh‐infected Rag2Il10gpt males vs. Hh‐infected females were noted. Finally, Hh infection and associated inflammation increased levels of intestinal mucosa‐associated genotoxic colibactin‐producing pks+ Escherichia coli. Elevated Tnfα and iNos responses and bacterial genotoxins, in concert with suppression of the DSB repair responses, may have promoted mutagenesis in the lower bowel mucosa of Hh‐infected male RagIl10gpt mice.
SET domain containing 1B gene is mutated in primary hepatic neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Yang Penghui , Huang Xuanlin , Lai Chengcai , Li Lin , Li Tieling , Huang Peide , Ouyang Songying , Yan Jin , Cheng Sijie , Lei Guanglin , Wang Zhaohai , Yu Linxiang , Hong Zhixian , Li Ruisheng , Dong Hui , Wang Cheng , Yu Yinghao , Wang Xuan , Li Xianghong , Wang Liming , Lv Fudong , Yin Ye , Yang Huanming , Song Jianxun , Gao Qiang , Wang Xiliang , Zhang Shaogeng
Published: April 2019

Primary hepatic neuroendocrine tumors (PHNETs) are extremely rare NETs originating from the liver. These tumors are associated with heterogeneous prognosis, and few treatment targets for PHNETs have been identified. Because the major genetic alterations in PHNET are still largely unknown, we performed whole‐exome sequencing of 22 paired tissues from PHNET patients and identified 22 recurring mutations of somatic genes involved in the following activities: epigenetic modification (BPTF, MECP2 and WDR5), cell cycle (TP53, ATM, MED12, DIDO1 and ATAD5) and neural development (UBR4, MEN1, GLUL and GIGYF2). Here, we show that TP53 and the SET domain containing the 1B gene (SETD1B) are the most frequently mutated genes in this set of samples (3/22 subjects, 13.6%). A biological analysis suggests that one of the three SETD1B mutants, A1054del, promotes cell proliferation, migration and invasion compared to wild‐type SETD1B. Our work unveils that SETD1B A1054del mutant is functional in PHNET and implicates genes including TP53 in the disease. Our findings thus characterize the mutational landscapes of PHNET and implicate novel gene mutations linked to PHNET pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets.
Overview of Computational Simulations in Quantum Dots
Authors: Hong Yang , Wu Yongqiang , Wu Shuimu , Wang Xinyu , Zhang Jingchao
Published: April 2019

Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor nanocrystals that exhibit exceptional properties not found in their bulk counterparts. They have attracted extensive academic and industrial attentions due to their quantum confinement effects and unique photophysical properties. Computational approaches such as first principles and classical molecular dynamics simulations are indispensable tools in both scientific studies and industrial applications of QDs. In this review, the state‐of‐the‐art progress in computational simulations of optical, electronic and thermal properties of QDs is summarized and discussed. First, the physics of QDs in low dimensional materials are comprehensively reviewed. Then, the theoretical basis and practical applications of two main computational methods are presented. Properties of QDs revealed by computational studies are summarized respectively. Finally, the paper was concluded with comments on future directions in computational modeling of QDs.
HIV serostatus, viral load, and midtrimester cervical length in a Zambian prenatal cohort
Authors: Price Joan T. , Vwalika Bellington , Winston Jennifer , Kumwenda Andrew , Lubeya Mwansa K. , Rittenhouse Katelyn J. , Stringer Elizabeth , Kasaro Margaret P. , Stringer Jeffrey S.A.
Published: April 2019

Objective

To evaluate whether maternal HIV serostatus and plasma viral load (VL) are associated with midtrimester cervical length (CL).

Methods

The Zambian Preterm Birth Prevention Study (ZAPPS) is an ongoing prospective cohort that began enrolling in Lusaka in August 2015. Pregnant women undergo ultrasound to determine gestational age and return for CL measurement at 16–28 weeks. We evaluated crude and adjusted associations between dichotomous indicators and short cervix (≤2.5 cm) via logistic regression, and between VL and CL as a continuous variable via linear regression.

Results

This analysis includes 1171 women enrolled between August 2015 and September 2017. Of 294 (25.1%) HIV‐positive women, 275 (93.5%) had viral load performed close to CL measurement; of these, 148 (53.8%) had undetectable virus. Median CL was 3.6 cm (IQR 3.5–4.0) and was similar in HIV‐infected (3.7 cm, IQR 3.5–4.0) versus uninfected (3.6 cm, IQR 3.5–4.0) participants (P=0.273). The odds of short CL were similar by HIV serostatus (OR 0.64; P=0.298) and detectable VL among those infected (OR 2.37, P=0.323). We observed no association between log VL and CL via linear regression (–0.12 cm; P=0.732).

Conclusion

We found no evidence of association between HIV infection and short CL.
Impact of a pharmacist‐physician collaborative care model on time‐in‐therapeutic blood pressure range in patients with hypertension
Authors: Dixon Dave L. , Parod Eric D. , Sisson Evan M. , Van Tassell Benjamin W. , Nadpara Pramit A. , Dow Alan
Published: April 2019

Introduction

Although pharmacist‐physician collaborative care models (PPCCM) improve mean blood pressure (BP) and goal attainment rates, the impact of these models on time‐in‐therapeutic blood pressure range (TTBPR) is unknown.

Objectives

The primary objective of this study was to determine the effect of a PPCCM on TTBPR compared with a usual care group.

Methods

This post‐hoc analysis compared data obtained from two retrospective groups of patients with uncontrolled hypertension managed either by a PPCCM or usual care. The primary end point was TTBPR, defined as the proportion of clinic visits with a systolic BP between 120 and 140 mmHg over a 12‐month follow‐up period. Several secondary end points were also evaluated. Means were compared using a t‐test, while counts and comparisons were compared using chi‐square or Fisher exact test.

Results

The study included 56 patients and 56 controls matched by gender, baseline systolic BP, and history of cardiovascular disease. Mean age was 58 years, 37.5% were female, and 73% were black. The mean TTBPR was 46.2% ± 24.3% in the PPCCM group and 24.8% ± 27.4% in the usual care group (P < 0.0001). Therapeutic inertia was 20.1% in the PPCCM compared with 48.1% in the usual care group (P < 0.0001). Greater reductions in BP were observed in the PPCCM group compared with usual care (systolic BP: −27.8 vs −11.4 mmHg, respectively; P < 0.0001; diastolic BP: −19.2 vs −4.2 mmHg, respectively; P < 0.0001). The BP control rates at 12 months were 89% in the PPCCM compared with 50% in the usual care group (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Patients exposed to a PPCCM had higher TTBPR compared with those who received usual care. The PPCCM group also had a lower rate of therapeutic inertia, greater reductions in BP, and achieved a higher percentage of patients at goal BP in an urban, underserved population.
Tannic acid as a natural antioxidant compound: Discovery of a potent metabolic enzyme inhibitor for a new therapeutic approach in diabetes and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Türkan Fikret , Taslimi Parham , Saltan Fatma Zerrin
Published: April 2019

Multiple studies have been recorded on the synthesis and design of multi‐aim anti‐Alzheimer molecules. Using dual butyrylcholinesterase/acetylcholinesterase inhibitor molecules has attracted more interest in the therapy for Alzheimer's disease. In this study, a tannic acid compound showed excellent inhibitory effects against acetylcholine esterase (AChE), α‐glycosidase, α‐amylase, and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). IC50 values of tannic acid obtained 11.9 nM against α‐glycosidase and 3.3 nM against α‐amylase, respectively. In contrast, Ki values were found of 50.96 ± 2.18 µM against AChE and 53.17 ± 4.47 µM against BChE. α‐Glycosidase inhibitor compounds can be utilized as a novel group of antidiabetic drugs. By competitively decreasing glycosidase activity, these inhibitor molecules help to hamper the fast breakdown of sugar molecules and thereby control the blood sugar level.
Study the Impact of Growth, Firm Size, Capital Structure, and Profitability on Enterprise Value: Evidence of Enterprises in Vietnam
Authors: Dang Hung Ngoc , Vu Van Thi Thuy , Ngo Xuan Thanh , Hoang Ha Thi Viet
Published: April 2019

This article studies the effect of growth, firm size, capital structure, and profitability on enterprise value (EV) in Vietnam. The study used a panel of 1.070 observations at 214 companies listed on the Vietnamese stock market for the period of 2012–2016. According to regression results by generalized least squares and structural pathways analysis, the results detected size and profitability are positively correlated with the enterprise value, while capital structure is a factor that negatively affects the enterprise value. On the other hand, growth factor does not have any impact on enterprise value. However, when measuring enterprise value under EV or Tobin's Q, the statistical results are not entirely consistent. In addition, the results of the study have also shown that the measurement of EV on enterprise value will be more appropriate. The results of empirical research are useful to help businesses improve their values. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Do Large European Banks Differ in their Derivative Disclosure Practices? A Cross‐Country Empirical Study
Authors: Scannella Enzo , Polizzi Salvatore
Published: April 2019

Risk disclosure has strategic importance for the efficiency of financial markets and overall financial stability. It plays a pivotal role in strengthening market discipline and building trust to improve relationships with stakeholders in banking. Risk reporting has taken a growing importance in banking over the last years. The topic of this article is derivative reporting in banking. The authors employ content analysis to conduct an empirical study on a sample of large European banks. The authors propose a hybrid scoring model for the assessment of derivative disclosure in banking institutions. The methodology employed in this research is able to capture a considerable amount of information because it combines the characteristics of a quantitative and qualitative analysis. This article provides evidences that banks differ in their derivative reporting, although they are subject to similar regulatory requirements and accounting standards. This empirical analysis shows that there is room to improve various aspects of derivatives disclosure in banking and poses some questions that researchers may develop with further empirical analysis. This article also discusses the potential policy implications of the research findings for practitioners, bank regulators, and accounting standard setters. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Three‐dimensional electrospun gelatin scaffold coseeded with embryonic stem cells and sertoli cells: A promising substrate for in vitro coculture system
Authors: Vardiani Mina , Gholipourmalekabadi Mazaher , Ghaffari Novin Marefat , Koruji Morteza , Ghasemi Hamidabadi Hatef , Salimi Maryam , Nazarian Hamid
Published: April 2019

In this study, we present an electrospun gelatin (EG) scaffold to mimic the extracellular matrix of the testis. The EG scaffold was synthesized by electrospinning and crosslinked with glutaraldehyde vapor to decrease its water solubility and degradation rate. The scanning electron microscope micrographs showed the homogenous morphology of randomly aligned gelatin fibers. The average diameter of gelatin fibers before and after crosslinking was approximately 180 and 220 nm, respectively. Modulus, tensile strength, and elongation at break values were as 161.8 ± 24.4 MPa, 4.21 ± 0.54 MPa, and 7.06 ± 2.12 MPa, respectively. The crosslinked EG showed 75.2% ± 4.5% weight loss after 14 days with no changes in the pH value of degradation solution. Cytobiocompatibility of the EG for sertoli cells and embryonic stem cells (ESCs) was determined in vitro. Sertoli cells were isolated from mouse testis and characterized by immunostaining and flow cytometry. The effects of EG on proliferation and attachment of both sertoli cells and ESCs were examined. The EG scaffolds exhibited no cytotoxicity for sertoli and ESCs. Both sertoli and ESCs were well attached and grown on EG. Coculture of sertoli and ESCs on EG showed better ESCs adhesion compared with ESCs alone. Our findings indicate the potential of EG as a substrate for proliferation, adhesion, and coculture of sertoli and ESCs and may be considered as a promising engineered microenvironment for in vitro coculture system with the aim of guiding stem cells differentiation toward sperm‐producing cells.
The enhanced expression of estrogen‐related receptor α in human bladder cancer tissues and the effects of estrogen‐related receptor α knockdown on bladder cancer cells
Authors: Ye Xinqing , Guo Jinan , Zhang Hongxiang , Meng Qinggui , Ma Yun , Lin Rui , Yi Xianlin , Lu Haoyuan , Bai Xianzhong , Cheng Jiwen
Published: April 2019

Estrogen‐related receptor α (ERRα) belongs to the superfamily of nuclear orphan receptors. However, the role of ERRα in bladder cancer remains unknown. This study examined the expression of ERRα in bladder cancer tissues and explored the molecular mechanisms of ERRα in bladder cancer progression. The expression of ERRα in bladder cancer tissues from 61 patients was determined by immunohistochemistry. We performed quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay to detect the gene expression levels and carried out Western blot assay to measure protein levels. In vitro functional assays, including colony formation, Cell Counting Kit‐8, Transwell invasion, and migration assays, were performed to detect bladder cancer cell growth, proliferation, invasion, and migration, respectively. Flow cytometry was used to determine the cell apoptotic rate of bladder cancer cells. Among the 61 detected bladder cancer tissues, 39 bladder cancer tissues showed positive ERRα immunoreactivity. Higher ERRα immunoreactivity score was significantly associated with TNM stage, tumor grade, distant metastasis, and poor survival in patients with bladder cancer. Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that ERRα immunoreactivity was an independent prognostic factor for overall survival in patients with bladder cancer. ERRα was found to be upregulated in bladder cancer cell lines, and knockdown of ERRα suppressed bladder cancer cell growth, proliferation, invasion, and migration; promoted bladder cancer cell apoptosis; and inhibited the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition of bladder cancer cells. On the other hand, bladder cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and migration were significantly enhanced after cells were transfected with an ERRα‐overexpressing vector. In vivo tumor growth and metastasis assays showed that ERRα knockdown resulted in remarkable inhibition of tumor growth and tumor metastasis in nude mice. Collectively, our results suggest that the enhanced expression of ERRα may play a key role in the development and progression of bladder cancer and ERRα may serve as an important prognostic factor for bladder cancer.
Chemokine receptor 3 is a negative regulator of trabecular bone mass in female mice
Authors: Mohan Subburaman , Hu Yan , Edderkaoui Bouchra
Published: April 2019

Chemokines are secreted by a wide variety of cells; their functions are dependent on the binding to their chemokine receptors (CCRs) which induce directed chemotaxis in nearby responsive cells. Chemokines and their receptors can be induced under several different conditions. Based on data from clinical studies showing an increased expression of chemokine receptor 3 (CCR3) in circulating monocytes of human subjects with lower bone mineral density (BMD) as compared to those with high BMD, we predicted a role for CCR3 in the development of peak bone mass. We, therefore, first evaluated the expression pattern of Ccr3 in bone cells, in comparison to other CCRs, that have common ligands with CCR3. While Ccr1 and Ccr3 messenger RNA (mRNA) levels increased during both RANKL‐induced osteoclast differentiation and AA‐induced osteoblast differentiation, the levels of Ccr5 mRNA only increased during osteoblast differentiation. To examine if CCR3 influences osteoclast and/or osteoblast differentiation, we evaluated the consequence of blocking CCR3 function using neutralizing antibody on the expression of osteoclast and osteoblast differentiation markers. Treatment with CCR3 neutralizing antibody increased mRNA levels of Trap and cathepsin K in osteoclasts and osteocalcin in osteoblasts compared to cells treated with control IgG. Based on these in vitro findings, we next assessed the role of CCR3 in vivo by evaluating the skeletal phenotypes of Ccr3 knockout and corresponding control littermate mice. Disruption of CCR3 resulted in a significant increase in femur areal BMD at 5 and 8 weeks of age by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry. Micro‐CT analysis revealed a 25% increase in trabecular bone mass at 10 weeks of age caused by corresponding changes in trabecular number and thickness compared to wild type mice. Based on our findings, we conclude that disruption of CCR3 function favors bone mass accumulation, in part via enhancement of bone metabolism. Understanding the molecular pathways through which CCR3 acts to regulate osteoclast and osteoblast functions could lead to new therapeutic approaches to prevent inflammation‐induced bone loss.
Salts and 1‐propanol induced aqueous two‐phase systems: phase separation and application
Authors: Fu Chuhan , Xie Shaoqu
Published: April 2019

BACKGROUND

Today there is a resurgence of interest in using short‐chain hydrophilic alcohols and salts to recover stronger polar bio‐based chemicals and fuels for use as platform chemicals and renewable alternative transportation fuels. How to reduce the extractant depletion during the recovery of other bio‐based chemicals from the fermentation broths is a problem of concern to researchers.

RESULTS

The present work investigated a 1‐propanol salt aqueous two‐phase system and its application to recover bio‐based acetoin. The water + 1‐propanol + K4P2O7 system was preferred for recovering bio‐based acetoin according to the recovery of 1‐propanol in the 1‐propanol salt aqueous two‐phase ternary system and after extraction of acetoin, and the salt content in the organic phase so as to avoid the losses of salt and 1‐propanol.

CONCLUSION

Subsequently, almost 100% of acetoin can be recovered from the aqueous solution; almost all of the salt was retained in the aqueous phase and more than 99% of 1‐propanol was recovered. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
The effect varied scanning electron microscopy desiccation techniques has on demineralized dentin
Authors: Sterrett John D. , Marks Murray , Dunlap John , Swann Jerilyn , Dunn Montana
Published: April 2019

The study objective was to assess (a) the effect of a rubbing‐application of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) or citric acid (CA) has on the ultrastructure of surface dentin and (b) the effect of two scanning electron microscopy (SEM) desiccation preparation techniques have on the collagen surface produced. Treatment regions on proximal root surfaces of extracted human teeth were root planned to expose dentin. Cotton pellets soaked in either 30% CA or 24% EDTA solution were rubbed on the treatment region then processed for SEM using one of two desiccation techniques, that is, (a) critically point dried from liquid CO2 (control) or (b) air‐dried from tetramethylsilane (experimental). Specimens were coated with gold/palladium and viewed/photographed with an SEM. Specimens of the control groups displayed tufted fibrils (CA > EDTA) with many dentin tubules being partially obscured by overhanging fibrils. Air‐dried specimens of both treatment groups displayed a flat intact monolayer devoid of a matted meshwork of fibrous collagen. Discrete fibril “sprigs,” emanating from the surface monolayer, were characteristic of the EDTA group only. The rubbing‐application of EDTA on dentin produces a tufted fibril surface somewhat similar to that produced by CA. Air‐drying desiccation of both resulted in marked distortion with fibril collapse/coalescence of the tufted collagen matrix.
Portopulmonary venous anastomosis as a rare cause of embolic stroke following endoscopic cyanoacrylate injection for gastric variceal hemorrhage: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Power Stephen P , Bishay Kirles , May Gary R , Marcuzzi Dan , Prabhudesai Vikram
Published: April 2019

We report the case of a non‐cirrhotic 25‐year‐old female patient with cryptogenic portal hypertension who underwent cyanoacrylate injection for acute gastroesophageal variceal bleeding with a subsequent embolic stroke via a previously unrecognised portopulmonary venous anastomosis.
Left atrial posterior wall isolation affects complex fractionated atrial electrograms in persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Nakatani Yosuke , Sakamoto Tamotsu , Yamaguchi Yoshiaki , Tsujino Yasushi , Kataoka Naoya , Nishida Kunihiro , Mizumaki Koichi , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: April 2019

Background

The impact of left atrial posterior wall isolation (LAPWI) on the complex fractionated atrial electrogram (CFAE) is unknown.

Methods

CFAE mapping was performed before and after LAPWI in 46 patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF).

Results

LAPWI decreased both the variable (fractionated index ≤ 120 ms; from 60 ± 4 cm2 to 50 ± 4 cm2, P < 0.001) and continuous (fractionated index ≤ 50 ms; from 4.2 ± 1.0 cm2 to 3.5 ± 0.9 cm2, P = 0.036) CFAE areas. Especially, the CFAE areas on the bottom and roof walls of the left atrium and on the posterior and bottom walls of the right atrium significantly decreased after LAPWI. The distribution of variable CFAE areas was not different between the AF‐recurrence (n = 9) and AF‐free (n = 37) groups before LAPWI; however, it was larger in the anterior and septal walls of the right atrium in the AF‐recurrence group than in the AF‐free group after LAPWI (anterior wall, 8% ± 2% vs 5% ± 1%, P = 0.048; septal wall, 23% ± 4% vs 16% ± 1%, P = 0.043). The distribution of continuous CFAE areas on the bottom wall of the right atrium was larger in the AF‐recurrence group than in the AF‐free group both before LAPWI (30% ± 20% vs 4% ± 2%, P = 0.008) and after LAPWI (25% ± 25% vs 3% ± 1%, P = 0.027).

Conclusions

LAPWI decreased the CFAE areas and affected their distribution, which contributed to AF recurrence.
Lever‐Out Resistance of Constrained Hip Liners is Sensitive to Changes in Opening Radius and Liner Design
Authors: Almubarak Samar , Boruah Sourabh , Muratoglu OrhunK , Varadarajan KartikM
Published: April 2019

The constrained liner is an important tool for the treatment of recurrent dislocation, which continues to represent an important challenge in total hip arthroplasty. In constrained liner design, there is a tradeoff between dislocation resistance and range of motion. However, studies investigating their sensitivity to design parameters are scant. Given the relatively high rate of failure of constrained devices, this information is critical to improving their design. This study aimed to use finite element analysis to explore the sensitivity of constrained liner‐dislocation resistance to variations in liner opening radius, for two different constraining design features found in contemporary devices. Results showed that a smaller opening radius leads to increased lever‐out moment. It was also observed that in liners with localized constraint, lever‐out resistance is more sensitive to changes in opening radius than those with circumferential constraint. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 37:1590–1595, 2019.