bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decentralized environmental regulations and plant‐level productivity
Authors: Ghosal Vivek , Stephan Andreas , Weiss Jan F.
Published: March 2019

Using the framework provided by the Porter hypothesis, we study the impact of environmental regulations and enforcement policies on plant‐level green total factor productivity (TFP) growth and its components related to efficiency change and technical change. The detailed microdata we use are from Sweden and for the pulp and paper industry. This industry is the source of significant amounts of water and air pollution and is one of the most heavily environmentally regulated manufacturing industries. Sweden has a unique decentralized regulatory structure where the manufacturing plants have to comply with plant‐specific regulatory standards stipulated at the national level, as well as decentralized local supervision and enforcement. Our empirical results point to beneficial impacts of the environmental policies on plants' green TFP growth and sustainable production practices. We also find that political economy considerations are important, as the presence of the Green Party and aspects like plant size (with corresponding local and regional economic effects) matter in enforcement of the standards.
An extended technology acceptance model of a mobile learning technology
Authors: Zhonggen Yu , Xiaozhi Yu
Published: March 2019

Rain Classroom, a popular mobile app developed by the most distinguished university in Asia, is a product of mobile technological revolution. Few studies have, however, formulated its acceptance model by including the constructs of peer and superior influences. This study’s primary investigation is the impact of peer and superior influences on learners’ usage of Rain Classroom within the technology acceptance model (TAM) framework. Both constructs are entered into an extended TAM as external variables impacting on the core constructs in the prevailing TAM literature: perceived usefulness, ease of use, enjoyment, and continuance intention. The investigation is conducted within the context of university students’ utilization of Rain Classroom. A sample of 293 students from a higher education institution in East China participated in this study. Using correlation analysis and WarpPLS Structural Equation Modeling, eight hypotheses were tested for Rain Classroom. The results of the analyses reveal that both peer and superior influences play a significant role in the students’ continuance intention to use Rain Classroom. Besides peer and superior influences, future research could extend the TAM by including more constructs to provide important references for researchers and practitioners of Rain Classroom.
Safety and efficacy profile of cyclin‐dependent kinases 4/6 inhibitor palbociclib in cancer therapy: A meta‐analysis of clinical trials
Authors: Guo Linghong , Hu Yuanyuan , Chen Xi , Li Qingfang , Wei Benling , Ma Xuelei
Published: March 2019

Background

Palbociclib is a small‐molecule, cyclin‐dependent kinase 4 and 6 inhibitor, which prevents phosphorylation of the retinoblastoma (Rb) protein and inhibits cell‐cycle progression from G1 to S phase. We performed this meta‐analysis to estimate the safety and efficacy of palbociclib in cancer patients from clinical trials.

Methods

PubMed and EMBASE were searched for eligible studies. Adverse events (AE) of grade ≥3 and all‐grade (1‐5) were extracted to calculate event rates. Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated to estimate the safety of palbociclib in endocrine treatment‐combined studies. A fixed effects model was used when homogeneity was low (I2 ≤ 50%). A random effects model was adopted when there was a significant heterogeneity (I2 > 50%). For efficacy endpoints, hazard ratio (HR) and 95% CI for progression‐free survival (PFS) or overall survival (OS) were extracted and analyzed.

Results

Nine clinical trials representing 1534 patients were identified. The most frequently observed all‐grade adverse events (AEs) in patients treated with palbociclib were neutropenia (event rate: 68.1%), leukopenia (51.7%), fatigue (35.9%), anemia (34.7%), and thrombocytopenia (30.9%). The most common grade 3 or more toxicities were neutropenia (51.6%), leukopenia (29.4%), and thrombocytopenia (7.5%). Hematologic adverse events had high occurrence in the palbociclib group. The pooled analysis of survival outcomes suggested that palbociclib produced clinical benefits in breast cancers and Rb‐positive tumors. More specifically, palbociclib was associated with significant improvement of PFS (HR: 0.518, 95% CI: 0.444‐0.604) in the treatment of ER‐positive and HER2‐negative breast cancer.

Conclusions

Hematologic adverse events were common in palbociclib‐treated cancer patients. Since palbociclib produced a higher PFS rate with a low serious complication rate, it can be a promising novel target therapy drug for treating ER‐positive and HER2‐negative breast cancer.
Genetic variants of SP‐D confer susceptibility to radiation pneumonitis in lung cancer patients undergoing thoracic radiation therapy
Authors: Xu Li , Jiang Junhong , Li Yunming , Zhang Ling , Li Zhihui , Xian Jing , Jiang Chaoyang , Diao Yong , Su Xiaomei , Xu Hongyu , Zhang Yue , Zhang Tao , Yang Zhenzhou , Tan Bangxian , Li Hua
Published: March 2019

Background

Surfactant protein D (SP‐D) is an innate immunity molecule in the alveoli. However, the associations between genetic variants of SP‐D and radiation pneumonitis (RP) have never been investigated.

Methods

The Linkage disequilibrium of SP‐D and tagSNPs were analyzed by using Haploview 4.1. Eight tagSNPs were genotyped among 396 lung cancer patients who received thoracic radiation therapy with follow–up time (median [P25, P75]: 11[6, 18]) using improved multiplex ligation detection reaction (iMLDR). The associations between clinical characteristics, tagSNP alleles, genotypes, haplotypes and onset time of grade ≥2 or ≥3 RP were evaluated by using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression model.

Results

Three tagSNPs of SP‐D (rs1998374, rs911887 and rs2255326) were significantly associated with grade ≥2 RP in multivariate analysis with multiple testing (Q test). The rs199874 had a protective effect for grade ≥2 RP in the dominant model (Hazard ratio (HR), 0.575; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.378‐0.875). The homozygous mutant genotype for rs911887 had risk effect for grade ≥2 RP (HR, 2.209; 95% CI, 1.251‐3.902). The A mutant allele of rs2255326 also showed an elevated risk for grade ≥2 RP (HR, 1.777; 95% CI, 1.283‐2.461) and this risk effect was still significant in the recessive genetic model (HR, 3.320; 95% CI, 1.659‐6.644) and dominant genetic model (HR, 1.773; 95% CI, 1.166‐2.696). Compared to the lung cancer patients bearing the most common haplotype C‐G‐T, the patients bearing the haplotype T‐A‐C (rs1998374‐rs2255326‐rs911887) showed a significant risk of both grade ≥2 RP (HR, 1.885; 95% CI, 1.284‐2.765) and grade ≥3 RP (HR, 2.256; 95% CI, 1.248‐4.080).

Conclusions

Genetic variants of SP‐D were associated with risk of RP development in lung cancer patients receiving thoracic radiotherapy.
Asymmetric effect of context‐specific color priming on interpretation of ambiguous news articles
Authors: Choi Jungsil , Lee Kiljae , Banerjee Pronobesh
Published: March 2019

In the context of reading a news article as a source to predict the stock price of a company, people's interpretation of the article was biased by the color used as its background. We found that this bias was (a) asymmetric, (b) strengthened with ambiguity, and (c) context specific. First, the color‐priming effect was asymmetric. In Studies 1 and 2, the readers' interpretation was positively biased when the article was presented on a background color that signals up (green in the United States and red in South Korea). The interpretation, however, was not negatively biased when it was presented on a background color that signals down (red in the United States and blue in South Korea). Second, the effect was strengthened with ambiguity. Study 3 showed that the bias was stronger when the article describing the stock price was ambiguous than when it was unambiguous. Third, the effect appeared to be a consequence of the context‐specific experience of an individual. Study 4 showed that the bias was stronger among those who recognized the meaning of a particular color in the context of their stock market.
Distinct Dynamic and Conformational Features of Human STING in Response to 2′3′‐cGAMP and c‐di‐GMP
Authors: Guo Jingjing , Wang Jie , Fan Jingrong , Zhang Yan , Dong Wenpei , Chen Chang‐Po
Published: March 2019

The human stimulator of interferon genes protein (hSTING) can bind cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) to activate the production of type I interferons and inflammatory cytokines. These CDNs can be either bacterial secondary messengers, 3′3′‐CDNs, or endogenous 2′3′‐cGAMP. cGAMP, with a unique 2′–5′ bond, is the most potent activator of hSTING among all CDNs. However, current understanding of the molecular principles underlying the unique ability of 2′3′‐cGAMP to potently activate hSTINGs other than 3′3′‐CDNs remains incomplete. In this work, molecular dynamics simulations were used to provide an atomistic picture of the binding of 2′3′‐cGAMP and one 3′3′‐CDN (c‐di‐GMP) to hSTING. The results suggest that hSTING binds more strongly to 2′3′‐cGAMP than to c‐di‐GMP, which prefers to bind with a more open and flexible state of hSTING. Finally, a potential “dock–lock–anchor” mechanism is proposed for the activation of hSTING upon the binding of a potent ligand. It is believed that deep insights into understanding the binding of hSTING with 3′3′‐CDNs and the endogenous 2′3′‐cGAMP would help to establish the principles underlying powerful 2′3′‐cGAMP signaling and the nature of hSTING activation, as well as related drug design.
Microneedle Array‐Based Platforms for Future Theranostic Applications
Authors: Howells Olivia , Rajendran Natasha , Mcintyre Sarah , Amini‐Asl Sara , Henri Pauline , Liu Yufei , Guy Owen , Cass Anthony E. G. , Morris May C. , Sharma Sanjiv
Published: March 2019

Theranostics involves finding the biomarkers of a disease, fighting them through site specific drug delivery and following them for prognosis of the disease. Microneedle array technology has been used for drug delivery and extended for continuous monitoring of analytes present in the skin compartment. We envisage the use of microneedle arrays for future theranostic applications. The potential of combining microneedle array‐based drug delivery and diagnostics as part of closed‐loop control system for the management of diseases and delivery of precision drugs in individual patients is reported in this paper.
Long‐term impact of diabetes in patients with ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction: Insights from the EXAMINATION randomized trial
Authors: Jimenez‐Quevedo Pilar , Brugaletta Salvatore , Cequier Angel , Iñiguez Andrés , Serra Antonio , Mainar Vicente , Campo Gianluca , Tespili Maurizio , Nombela‐Franco Luis , del Trigo Maria , Gonzalo Nieves , Escaned Javier , Salinas Pablo , Nuñez‐Gil Ivan , Fernandez‐Perez Cristina , Fernández‐Ortiz Antonio , Macaya Carlos , Serruys Patrick W. , Sabate Tenas Manel
Published: March 2019

Background

Long‐term outcomes of diabetic patients suffering from ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and treated with second‐generation drug‐eluting stent have been scarcely evaluated. The aim of this posthoc subanalysis of the EXAMINATION trial was to compare 5‐year outcomes according to the presence of diabetes mellitus.

Methods

From a total of 1,497 patients included in the trial, 258 were diabetics (n = 137, received everolimus‐eluting stent (EES) and n = 121 bare‐metal stent (BMS); whereas 1,239 were nondiabetics (n = 613 treated with EES and n = 626 with BMS). Patient‐oriented combined endpoint (POCE) defined as all‐cause death, any MI or any revascularization, and other clinical parameters were collected up to 5‐years. All results were adjusted for various potential confounders.

Results

At 5‐years, patients with diabetes showed similar rates of POCE between diabetics treated with EES and those treated with BMS (32.8% vs. 32.2%; p = 0.88). However, rates of TLR were significantly lower in the EES group (4.4% vs. 9.9%; HR 0.52 (0.29–0.94); P = 0.03). In non‐diabetics, the use of EES was associated with a significant improvement in all‐clinical parameters except for MI rate: POCE: [10.0% vs. 12.6%; HR 0.78(0.62–0.98); P = 0.038], all cause death: [7.0% vs. 12.1%; HR 0.62(0.42–0.90); P = 0.014], and [TLR: 4.2 vs. 6.7; HR 0.60 (0.37–0.98); P = 0.04]. Overall, diabetics showed higher rate of POCE at 5‐years (32.6% vs. 21.5% in nondiabetics HR1.45[1.03–2.04];p = 0.03) driven by increased rates of MI and the need for revascularization that occurred in coronary segments remote from target lesions [2.7% vs. 1.1%; HR: 2.27 (1.12–5.23); P = 0.02 and 14% vs. 6.2%; HR: 2.11 (1.38–3.22); P = 0.001, respectively].

Conclusions

Diabetics had worse clinical outcomes than nondiabetics after STEMI mainly due to atherosclerosis progression. At 5‐years, the treatment with EES did not reduce the rate of POCE in diabetics but reduced the need for revascularization compared with BMS.
Modeling and Growth Kinetics of Antisolvent Crystallization Applied to the Pharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Kodera Takanori , Kobari Masanori , Hirasawa Izumi
Published: March 2019

With the aim of simulating the product crystal size, which is one of the important physical properties for active pharmaceutical ingredients, an antisolvent crystallization model is proposed, including only six experimentally determined kinetic parameters to develop a concise model. As a first step, the methodology to assess the growth rate parameters, which are some of the six kinetic parameters, is discussed. An approach for appropriately treating the size distribution data obtained by means of the laser diffraction/scattering method is suggested. The determined growth rate parameters could be used to simulate the crystal size indicating that the simulation by crystallization modeling is a practical application for the pharmaceutical industry.
Theoretical Investigation of the Topology of Spiroborate‐Linked Ionic Covalent Organic Frameworks (ICOFs)
Authors: Zhang Xiaomin , Li Wenliang , Guan Yiran , Zhou Baolei , Zhang Jingping
Published: March 2019

A novel type of ionic covalent organic framework (ICOF) with a spiroborate linkage has been recently designed and synthesized by Zhang and co‐workers (Ionic Covalent Organic Frameworks with Spiroborate Linkage, Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2016, 55, 1737–1741). The spiroborate‐linked ICOFs exhibit high Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface areas and significant amounts of H2 and CH4 uptakes, combined with excellent thermal and chemical stabilities. Inspired by the novel properties of ICOFs, with the aim of gaining better understanding of the structure of such spiroborate‐linked ICOFs, a series of potential 3D network configurations of ICOFs connected with tetrahedral [BO4]− nodes were proposed, assuming the [BO4]− node in spiroborate segments takes a tetrahedral configuration. These ICOFs, in terms of 2D and 3D topology through torsional energy of the [BO4]− fragment, pore‐size distribution, total energy of the framework, and gas adsorption properties were compared and systematically investigated by density functional theory calculations, molecular mechanics, and well‐established Grand canonical Monte Carlo simulations. The results indicate that spiroborate‐linked ICOFs are likely a mixture of various topologies. Among these architectures, the five‐fold interpenetrating model shows the lowest energy and reasonable gas uptakes, therefore, it is considered to be the most possible structure. More importantly, the five‐fold interpenetrating model, showing high CH4 uptakes compared with several classic porous materials, represents a promising CH4 storage material.
Diastereodivergent Synthesis of Hexahydro‐6H‐benzo[c]chromen‐6‐one Derivatives Catalyzed by Modularly Designed Organocatalysts
Authors: Jakkampudi Satish , Parella Ramarao , Arman Hadi D. , Zhao John C.‐G.
Published: March 2019

The diastereodivergent synthesis of hexahydro‐6H‐benzo[c]chromen‐6‐one derivatives with good to high diastereoselectivities (up to 98:2 d.r.) and enantioselectivities (up to >99 % ee) has been achieved by using a domino Michael/Michael/hemiacetalization reaction between trans‐2‐hydroxy‐β‐nitrostyrenes and trans‐7‐oxo‐5‐heptenals followed by oxidation. With use of appropriate modularly designed organocatalysts (MDOs) that are self‐assembled in situ from amino acid derivatives and cinchona alkaloid derivatives, two different diastereomers of the desired hexahydro‐6H‐benzo[c]chromen‐6‐ones are obtained from the same substrates.
A New Insight into the Stereoelectronic Control of the Pd0‐Catalyzed Allylic Substitution: Application for the Synthesis of Multisubstituted Pyran‐2‐ones via an Unusual 1,3‐Transposition
Authors: Brůža Zbyněk , Kratochvíl Jiří , Harvey Jeremy N. , Rulíšek Lubomír , Nováková Lucie , Maříková Jana , Kuneš Jiří , Kočovský Pavel , Pour Milan
Published: March 2019

Pyran‐2‐ones 3 undergo a novel Pd0‐catalyzed 1,3‐rearrangement to afford isomers 6. The reaction proceeds via an η2‐Pd complex, the pyramidalization of which (confirmed by quantum chemistry calculations) offers a favorable antiperiplanar alignment of the Pd−C and allylic C−O bonds (C), thus allowing the formation of an η3‐Pd intermediate. Subsequent rotation and rate‐limiting recombination with the carboxylate arm then gives isomeric pyran‐2‐ones 6. The calculated free energies reproduce the observed kinetics semi‐quantitatively.
AuPt Bipyramid Nanoframes as Multifunctional Platforms for In Situ Monitoring of the Reduction of Nitrobenzene and Enhanced Electrocatalytic Methanol Oxidation
Authors: Fang Caihong , Zhao Guili , Zhang Zijun , Ding Qian , Yu Nan , Cui Zhiqing , Bi Ting
Published: March 2019

Multifunctional metal nanostructures with a hollow feature, especially for nanoframes, are highly attractive owing to their high surface‐to‐volume ratios. However, pre‐grown metal nanocrystals are always involved during the preparation procedure, and a synthetic strategy without the use of a pre‐grown template is still a challenge. In this article, a template‐free strategy is reported for the preparation of novel AuPt alloy nanoframes through simply mixing HAuCl4 and H2PtCl6 under mild conditions. The alloy nanostructures show a bipyramid‐frame hollow architecture with the existence of only the ten ridges and absence of their side faces. This is the first report of bipyramid‐like nanoframes and a template‐free method under mild conditions. This configuration merges the plasmonic features of Au and highly active catalytic sites of Pt in a single nanostructure, making it an ideal multifunctional platform for catalyzing and monitoring the catalytic reaction in real time. The superior catalytic activity is demonstrated by using the reduction of nitrobenzene to the corresponding aminobenzene as a model reaction. More importantly, the AuPt nanoframes can track the reduction process on the basis of the SERS signals of the reactants, intermediates, and products, which helps to reveal the reaction mechanism. In addition, the AuPt nanoframes show much higher electrocatalytic properties toward the methanol oxidation reaction than commercial Pt/C electrocatalysts.
Lanthanum‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Trifluoromethylation by Using an Electrophilic Hypervalent Iodine Reagent
Authors: Granados Albert , Rivilla Iván , Cossío Fernando P. , Vallribera Adelina
Published: March 2019

A highly enantioselective catalytic method for the synthesis of quaternary α‐trifluoromethyl derivatives of 3‐oxo esters is described. The reaction uses lanthanum(III) triflate and chiral PyBOX‐type C2‐symmetric ligands to generate intermediate LaIII complexes that incorporate an enolate moiety of the starting 3‐oxo ester and the trifluoromethylation transfer reagent. The enantioselectivity of the reaction stems from the efficient blockage of one of the prochiral faces of the LaIII enolate by one unit of the C2‐symmetric ligand.
Prognostic implications of troponin I elevation in emergency department patients with tachyarrhythmia
Authors: González‐Del‐Hoyo Maribel , Cediel Germán , Carrasquer Anna , Bonet Gil , Vásquez‐Nuñez Karla , Boqué Carme , Alí Samuel , Bardají Alfredo
Published: March 2019

Background

Tachyarrhythmias are very common in emergency medicine, and little is known about the long‐term prognostic implications of troponin I levels in these patients.

Hypothesis

This study aimed to investigate the correlation of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) levels and long‐term prognosis in patients admitted to the emergency department (ED) with a primary diagnosis of tachyarrhythmia.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted between January 2012 and December 2013, enrolling patients admitted to the ED with a primary diagnosis of tachyarrhythmia and having documented cTnI measurements. Clinical characteristics and 5‐year all‐cause mortality were analyzed.

Results

Of a total of 222 subjects with a primary diagnosis of tachyarrhythmia, 73 patients had elevated levels of cTnI (32.9%). Patients with elevated cTnI levels were older and presented significantly more cardiovascular risk factors. At the 5‐year follow‐up, mortality was higher among patients with elevated cTnI levels (log‐rank test P < 0.001). In the multivariable Cox regression analysis, elevated cTnI was an independent predictor of all‐cause death (hazard ratio, 1.95, 95% confidence interval: 1.08‐3.50, P = 0.026), in addition to age and prior heart failure.

Conclusion

Patients admitted to the ED with a primary diagnosis of tachyarrhythmia and high cTnI levels have higher long‐term mortality rates than patients with low cTnI levels. cTnI is thus a biomarker with predictive capacity for mortality in late follow‐up, conferring utility in the risk stratification of this population.
A Study of the Direct Spectral Transform for the Defocusing Davey‐Stewartson II Equation the Semiclassical Limit
Authors: Assainova O. , Klein C. , McLaughlin K. D. T.‐R. , Miller P. D.
Published: March 2019

The defocusing Davey‐Stewartson II equation has been shown in numerical experiments to exhibit behavior in the semiclassical limit that qualitatively resembles that of its one‐dimensional reduction, the defocusing nonlinear Schrödinger equation, namely the generation from smooth initial data of regular rapid oscillations occupying domains of space‐time that become well‐defined in the limit.

As a first step to studying this problem analytically using the inverse scattering transform, we consider the direct spectral transform for the defocusing Davey‐Stewartson II equation for smooth initial data in the semiclassical limit. The direct spectral transform involves a singularly perturbed elliptic Dirac system in two dimensions. We introduce a WKB‐type method for this problem, proving that it makes sense formally for sufficiently large values of the spectral parameter k by controlling the solution of an associated nonlinear eikonal problem, and we give numerical evidence that the method is accurate for such k in the semiclassical limit. Producing this evidence requires both the numerical solution of the singularly perturbed Dirac system and the numerical solution of the eikonal problem. The former is carried out using a method previously developed by two of the authors, and we give in this paper a new method for the numerical solution of the eikonal problem valid for sufficiently large k.

For a particular potential we are able to solve the eikonal problem in closed form for all k, a calculation that yields some insight into the failure of the WKB method for smaller values of k. Informed by numerical calculations of the direct spectral transform, we then begin a study of the singularly perturbed Dirac system for values of k so small that there is no global solution of the eikonal problem. We provide a rigorous semiclassical analysis of the solution for real radial potentials at k=0, which yields an asymptotic formula for the reflection coefficient at k=0 and suggests an annular structure for the solution that may be exploited when k ≠ 0 is small. The numerics also suggest that for some potentials the reflection coefficient converges pointwise as ɛ↓ 0 to a limiting function that is supported in the domain of k‐values on which the eikonal problem does not have a global solution. It is expected that singularities of the eikonal function play a role similar to that of turning points in the one‐dimensional theory. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Trigonal Prismatic Cobalt(II) Complex as a Single Molecule Magnet with a Reduced Contribution from Quantum Tunneling
Authors: Pavlov Alexander A. , Aleshin Dmitry Y. , Savkina Svetlana A. , Belov Alexander S. , Efimov Nikolay N. , Nehrkorn Joscha , Ozerov Mykhaylo , Voloshin Yan Z. , Nelyubina Yulia V. , Novikov Valentin V.
Published: March 2019

Herein, we report a new trigonal prismatic cobalt(II) complex that behaves as a single molecule magnet. The obtained zero‐field splitting, which is also directly accessed by THz‐EPR spectroscopy (−102.5 cm−1), results in a large magnetization reversal barrier U of 205 cm−1. Its effective value, however, is much lower (101 cm−1), even though there is practically no contribution from quantum tunneling to magnetization relaxation.
Graphene‐Encapsulated Co9S8 Nanoparticles on N,S‐Codoped Carbon Nanotubes: An Efficient Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalyst
Authors: Jia Nan , Liu Jing , Gao Yunshan , Chen Pei , Chen Xinbing , An Zhongwei , Li Xifei , Chen Yu
Published: March 2019

An inexpensive and efficient bifunctional electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is central to the rechargeable zinc–air battery. Herein, a nanohybrid, in which N,S‐codoped carbon nanotubes were decorated with Co9S8 nanoparticles encapsulated in porous graphene layers, was fabricated by a one‐step heat‐treatment process. The N,S dopant species were the major active sites for the ORR, and Co9S8 nanoparticles were mainly responsible for the OER. Compared with commercial 20 wt % Pt/C and Ir/C electrocatalysts, this nanohybrid exhibited a comparable ORR half‐wave potential (0.831 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode) and OER potential (1.591 V at 10 mA cm−2), better long‐term stability in an alkaline medium, and a narrower potential gap (0.76 V) between ORR and OER. Furthermore, as air electrode of the rechargeable zinc–air battery, it delivered a low charge–discharge voltage gap (0.65 V at 5 mA cm−2), high open‐circuit potential (1.539 V), good specific capacity (805 mA h g
at 5 mA cm−2), and excellent cycling stability (48 h), superior to those of commercial Pt/C and Ir/C catalysts, and thus showed promise for applications in renewable energy conversion devices.
Highly Stable and High Rate‐Performance Na‐Ion Batteries Using Polyanionic Anthraquinone as the Organic Cathode
Authors: Tang Wu , Liang Ren , Li Di , Yu Qihang , Hu Jiahui , Cao Bei , Fan Cong
Published: March 2019

Sodium 9,10‐anthraquinone‐2,6‐disulfonate (Na2AQ26DS), with polyanionic character and two O−Na ionic bonds, is found to be a highly stable organic cathode in Na‐ion batteries, delivering capacities of approximately 120 mAh g−1 for 300 cycles (50 mA g−1) and around 99 mAh g−1 for 1000 cycles (1 A g−1). These results are the best performance reported to date for small‐molecule, anthraquinone‐based organic cathodes in Li‐, Na‐, or K‐ion batteries.
Imidazolium‐Salt‐Functionalized Covalent Organic Frameworks for Highly Efficient Catalysis of CO2 Conversion
Authors: Qiu Jikuan , Zhao Yuling , Li Zhiyong , Wang Huiyong , Shi Yunlei , Wang Jianji
Published: March 2019

The conversion of CO2 into valuable chemicals is an ideal pathway for CO2 utilization in industry, although the development of highly efficient catalysts remains a challenge. Herein, the design and synthesis of two covalent organic frameworks (COFs) functionalized with imidazolium salts were reported as catalysts for CO2 conversion. The resultant COFs possessed highly crystalline structures, showed high stability and surface area, and contained dense catalytic active sites on the pore walls. They exhibited outstanding catalytic performances for the reaction of CO2 with epoxides without any solvent or cocatalyst under mild conditions and afforded a record turnover number of 495 000. In addition, the COFs could serve as effective catalysts in the reductive reaction of CO2 with amines. The results presented here thus demonstrate the exceptional potential of the functionalized COFs for various challenging CO2 transformations.
A BAFfling liver aspirate: Metastatic high grade SMARCA4 deficient undifferentiated gastroesophageal junction carcinoma masquerading as a hematolymphoid malignancy
Authors: Kilic Ayse Irem , Mirza Kamran , Mehrotra Swati , Pambuccian Stefan E.
Published: March 2019

Undifferentiated malignant SMARCA4‐deficient neoplasms are rare, recently characterized, high grade, potentially lethal malignancies. Such tumors are characterized by the loss of BRG1 encoded by SMARCA4, a key component of the Switch/Sucrose Non‐Fermenting (SWI/SNF) chromatin remodeling complex. As this complex, also referred as BAF (BRG1/BRM associated factors) complex, is involved in the epigenetic control of hundreds of genes, including those involved in lineage‐specific differentiation, BAF‐deficient tumors, show minimal or no differentiation and are difficult to classify. Their fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytologic features are still poorly defined. Here, we describe a 70‐year‐old man who presented with thickening of the wall of the distal esophagus and stomach and multiple liver and lung lesions. Liver FNA showed relatively uniform dispersed malignant cells with high nucleus: cytoplasm ratio, scant microvacuolated cytoplasm, eccentric nuclei and prominent nucleoli. Mitoses, necrotic debris, nuclear streak artifact, “ghost cells” and focal rhabdoid cytoplasmic inclusions were also present. The liver core biopsy and GI biopsies demonstrated sinusoidal and respectively submucosal involvement by a high grade undifferentiated malignant neoplasm. The tumor cells were negative for all applied markers on immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry, and only showed CD138 and weak PAX5 staining. After an initial diagnosis of hematolymphoid neoplasm, additional stains showed intact INI1 protein and loss of BRG1 protein immunoexpression, establishing the accurate diagnosis. This case highlights the difficulties and potential pitfalls encountered in the FNA diagnosis of BAF‐deficient tumors, the accurate diagnosis of which is important due to their lack of response to conventional therapy and potential response to targeted therapy.
Prevalence of high‐risk HPV and atypia in liquid‐based cytology of cervical and intra‐anal specimens from kidney‐transplanted women
Authors: Eleutério José , Cavalcante Liana R. , Gonçalves Ana K. S. , Eleutério Renata M. N. , Giraldo Paulo C.
Published: March 2019

Background

There is a high frequency of human papillomavirus (HPV)‐induced lesions in cervix and anus of immunosuppressed patients. However, few studies have evaluated these lesions in kidney‐transplanted women.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study examined 31 kidney‐transplanted women receiving immunosuppressive therapy at the General Hospital of Fortaleza in Brazil. Cervical and anal samples were collected and preserved in order to perform liquid‐based cytology and a real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay detecting high‐risk HPV.

Results

The patients' ages ranged from 31 to 70 years (mean: 42.6 ± 10.4). The age of sexual debut varied from 14 to 30 years (mean: 19.7 ± 3.8). Cervical cytology was diagnosed as atypical in 25.8% of cases (atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance [ASC‐US] in 2 [6.2%], atypical squamous cells, but unable to exclude a high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion in 1 [3.1%], low‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion [LSIL] in 4 [12.4%], and squamous cell carcinoma in 1 [3.1%]). Anal cytology was atypical in 35.4% of cases (ASC‐US in 1 [3.2%] and LSIL in 7 [21.7%]). The presence of cervical HPV was confirmed in 22.5% of patients, and anal HPV was found in 48.8% of the cases. The relative risk of atypical anal cytology in cases of atypical cervical cytology was 4.37 (1.35‐14.20). High‐risk cervical HPV did not significantly increase the risk of having atypical anal cytology. However, for HPV in the anus, this was associated with a relative risk of 10.18 (1.45‐71.54).

Conclusion

High‐risk HPV and atypical cytology are very common in the cervix and anus of kidney‐transplanted women. Furthermore, the presence of HPV in an anal sample correlates with an increased risk of atypical anal cytology. HPV tests could be useful tools for identifying patients who require anal cytology.
Human Biospecimens Come from People
Authors: Tomlinson Tom , De Vries Raymond G.
Published: March 2019

Contrary to the revised Common Rule, and contrary to the views of many bioethicists and researchers, we argue that broad consent should be sought for anticipated later research uses of deidentified biospecimens and health information collected during medical care. Individuals differ in the kinds of risk they find concerning and in their willingness to permit use of their biospecimens for future research. For this reason, asking their permission for unspecified research uses is a fundamental expression of respect for them as persons and should be done absent some compelling moral consideration to the contrary. We examine three moral considerations and argue that each of them fails: that there is a duty of easy rescue binding on all, that seeking consent creates a selection bias that undermines the validity of biospecimen research, and that seeking and documenting consent will be prohibitively expensive.
Interaction of Neutral Donors with Methylaluminoxane
Authors: Zijlstra Harmen S. , Joshi Anuj , Linnolahti Mikko , Collins Scott , McIndoe J. Scott
Published: March 2019

Methylaluminoxane (MAO) is a key activator for olefin polymerization catalysts, making its chemistry of ongoing interest. Strong and bidentate neutral donors such as 2,2′‐bipyridine are effective abstractors of the dimethylaluminum cation, [Me2Al]+, from methylaluminoxane (MAO), while monodentate, weaker donors such as THF appear most prone to adduct formation with both free and bound trimethylaluminum. The ionization process can be readily investigated using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) in fluorobenzene (PhF) solution. Complementary studies employing 1D and 2D 1H NMR spectroscopic studies in [D5]bromobenzene solution provide details on the extent of ionization vs. donor‐acceptor complex formation for the different donors studied. DFT studies employing different neutral model precursors and mono‐ vs. didentate donors shed light on possible mechanisms for ion‐pair formation.
Pd‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative Asymmetric Protonation (DAP) Using Chiral PHOX Ligands vs. Chiral Ligand‐Free Conditions Employing (1R,2S)(–)‐Ephedrine – A Comparison Study
Authors: James Jinju , Akula Ramulu , Guiry Patrick J.
Published: March 2019

Pd‐catalyzed decarboxylative asymmetric protonation (DAP) using (1R,2S)‐(–)ephedrine as the proton source, previously developed for sterically hindered α‐aryl, lactone and dihydrocoumarin substrates, was applied to a range of α‐aryl β‐keto allyl ester substrates that were already successful in DAP with chiral P,N‐ligands. An optimization study using a cyclopentanone‐derived α‐aryl, β‐oxo‐allyl ester with 2,4,6‐trimethoxyphenyl as the aryl substituent afforded high levels of enantioselectivity (91 % ee). This encouraged us to examine other α‐aryl, β‐keto‐allyl ester substrates. The results from this substrate scope study with α‐aryl, cyclohexanone‐, isoflavanone‐, indanone‐, and tetralone‐derived substrates using (1R,2S)‐(–)ephedrine as the protonating agent under Pd catalysis, compared favorably with enantioselectivities obtained in DAP reactions induced by Pd complexes of chiral ligands.
Development of Nonenzymatic Benzoic Acid Detection on PdSn/GCE/Vulcan XC‐72R Prepared via Polyol Method
Authors: Kazıcı Hilal Çelik , Yayla Müge , Ulaş Berdan , Aktaş Nahit , Kivrak Hilal
Published: March 2019

In this study a PdSn based sensor was developed for the determination of benzoic acid (BA) in foods. A carbon (Vulcan XC‐72R) supported PdSn catalyst was prepared via polyol method and its surface electronic and chemical properties were investigated by advanced surface analytical techniques such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), temperature‐programmed reduction with H2 (TPR‐H2) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Electrochemical measurements were performed by employing cyclic voltammetry (CV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) techniques on PdSn/GCE/Vulcan XC‐72R electrode. The developed sensor showed a wide linear range up to 10 mM with a 0.77 μM low limit of detection (LOD) as well as high stability. Further experiments were performed on food samples containing BA to achieve real sample measurements. For real sample measurements, PdSn/GCE/Vulcan XC‐72R electrode was used for the determination of BA in different kinds of samples such as mayonnaise, ketchup and carbonated beverages.
Ten‐year time trends in mental and physical health correlates of weight/shape overvaluation
Authors: Santana Danilo Dias , Mitchison Deborah , Griffiths Scott , Appolinario Jose Carlos , da Veiga Gloria Valeria , Touyz Stephen , Hay Phillipa
Published: March 2019

Objective

To investigate the relationships between weight/shape overvaluation, health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and functional role impairment (days out of role [DOR]) in the general population over 11 years.

Method

Five cross‐sectional surveys of men and women representative of the South Australian population were conducted in 2005, 2008, 2009, 2015, and 2016 (ntotal = 15,140). Data were collected on demographics, overvaluation, HRQoL, DOR, and eating disorder behaviours.

Results

Between 2005 and 2016, the prevalence of moderate overvaluation increased from 18.1% to 40.0%, marked overvaluation from 7.5% to 23.7%, and extreme overvaluation from 3.1% to 9.2% (all p < 0.001). Overvaluation at any level was associated with more DOR in 2005 but not in 2016, and the association between HRQoL impairment and overvaluation weakened over time.

Conclusion

Although the population prevalence of overvaluation has increased significantly in the past decade, the impairment associated with it appears to have reduced.
Underground microseismic monitoring of a hydraulic fracturing operation for CBM reservoirs in a coal mine
Authors: Jiang Zhizhong , Li Quangui , Hu Qianting , Chen Jiufu , Li Xuelong , Wang Xiaoguang , Xu Yangcheng
Published: March 2019

Hydraulic fracturing can evidently improve the coalbed methane production in underground coal mines, but it is difficult to delimit the stimulated area accurately. In order to evaluate the stimulated area, microseismic (MS) monitoring technique is proposed to investigate the seismic responses of the induced fractures of hydraulic fracturing. Three coal seams were targeted to be treated in a coal mine. An array of geophones was set along the underground roadway to detect the MS signals caused by HF. In order to verify the result of MS monitoring, water content of each coal seam has been measured before and after HF treatment. The results showed that a series of MS events were detected during the entire HF process, and a sharp MS event usually occurred during the first hour of HF process. The energy of the sharp MS event had higher magnitude than others. The MS distribution exhibited complex morphological features. The directionless MS response was distributed over a radius of less than 40 m but tended to be significantly conjugated with a radius of more than 40 m. HF could stimulate both the coal seam and the rock layers nearby. The achievable stimulated area in the coal seam was determined to be 50 m × 50 m according to the MS density and water content. The stimulated area in terms of MS density was easily found to be broader than the area of water direct intrusion. The present study indicated that MS monitoring technique could potentially be used for evaluation of HF in underground coal mine.
Challenging the spanning hypothesis at short horizons: Evidence from Norway
Authors: Valseth Siri
Published: March 2019

The spanning hypothesis states that the yield curve reflects all available information about future yields. This paper challenges the hypothesis by investigating the predictive power of bond market order flow while controlling for principal components extracted from the current yield curve. The results show that order flows aggregated from interdealer trades in Norwegian government bonds can predict yield changes and excess returns both in‐sample and out‐of‐sample at the daily and weekly horizons. This suggests that bond dealers possess information about future bond yields that is not yet incorporated into the yield curve. Forecasts based on microstructure data can thus be valuable for short term investors.
Numerical studies of earth structure assessment via the theory of porous media using fuzzy probability based random field material descriptions
Authors: Schmidt Albrecht , Henning Carla , Herbrandt Swetlana , Könke Carsten , Ickstadt Katja , Ricken Tim , Lahmer Tom
Published: March 2019

To account for the natural variability of material parameters in multiphasic and hydro‐mechanical coupled finite element analyses of soil and earth structure applications, the use of probabilistic methods may be effective. Here, selecting the appropriate soil auto‐correlation functions for random field realizations plays an essential role. In a joint study, the general influence of auto‐correlation lengths on the results of strongly coupled models is determined. Subsequently, a polymorphic approach using fuzzy probability based random fields is used to capture the solution space for fuzzy auto‐correlation lengths. To adequately describe the behavior of the soil the theory of porous media is implemented, which uses a homogenization approach for the multiple phases on the soil microstructure. Its foundations and the differentiated methods used for the polymorphic uncertainty quantification are explained in this contribution. Based on two representative examples, the requirements and advantages of a polymorphic uncertainty model are worked out30.
Tholeiitic basalts of Deccan large igneous province, India: An overview
Authors: Manu Prasanth M.P. , Hari K.R. , Santosh M.
Published: March 2019

The Deccan large igneous province (DLIP) of Peninsular India is predominantly composed of tholeiitic basalts with a minor amount of alkaline, carbonatite, and silicic rocks. The tholeiitic basalts of DLIP are enriched in incompatible trace elements and divisible into low‐Ti basalts (TiO2 < 2.5; Ti/Y < 500) and high‐Ti basalts (TiO2 > 2.5; Ti/Y > 500). Despite variable total REE content, both low‐Ti and high‐Ti basalts exhibit almost similar geochemical patterns in the chondrite‐ and primitive‐ mantle‐normalized diagrams. The mantle potential temperature (Tp) of high‐Ti tholeiites estimated at Ca.1368°C, which is consistent with an ambient mantle temperature (1300–1400°C) whereas the Tp of low‐Ti tholeiites is around 1553°C, which indicates its derivation from the mantle plume axis. Extensive assimilation of the crustal components into the ascending plume have masked the nature and compositional characteristics of both high‐ and low‐Ti basalts. The low‐Ti basalts indicate significant contamination with crustal components than the high‐Ti basalts. The geochemical and isotopic compositions indicate the involvement of multiple mantle components. In general, the differentiated tholeiites of DLIP are the products of plume and depleted sections of the mantle with or without contributions from the continental crust. The main phase of Deccan magmatism intensely affected the atmosphere and hydrosphere, which was a possible trigger for the mass extinction event at the K–Pg boundary.
Tumor immune microenvironment characteristics of papillary thyroid carcinoma are associated with histopathological aggressiveness and BRAF mutation status
Authors: Means Casey , Clayburgh Daniel R. , Maloney Lauren , Sauer David , Taylor Matthew H. , Shindo Maisie L. , Coussens Lisa M. , Tsujikawa Takahiro
Published: March 2019

Background

Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) follows an indolent course; however, up to 30% of patients develop recurrent disease requiring further treatment. Profiling PTC immune complexity may provide new biomarkers for improved risk prediction.

Methods

Immune complexity profiles were quantitatively evaluated by multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC) in archived tissue sections from 39 patients with PTC, and were assessed for correlations with aggressive histopathological features based on the presence of lymphovascular invasion and/or extrathyroidal extension, and BRAF V600E mutational status.

Results

mIHC revealed two distinct immune clusters stratifying patients: a lymphoid‐inflamed group (higher CD8+ T cells, reduced dendritic and mast cells) and a myeloid/hypo‐inflamed group that correlated with aggressive pathological features. BRAF mutation was not associated with aggressive pathological features but did correlate with increased mast cell density.

Conclusions

Distinct immune microenvironments exist in PTC correlating with pathological aggressiveness. Immune‐based biomarkers associated with possible tumor‐immune interactions may be used for risk stratification.
Combined vaginal administration of nystatin, diiodohydroxyquin, and benzalkonium chloride versus oral metronidazole for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis
Authors: Chooprasertsuk Wichinee , Somboonporn Woraluk , Soontrapa Sukree , Salang LingLing , Amnatbuddee Siriruthai
Published: March 2019

Objective

To compare combined vaginal administration of nystatin, diiodohydroxyquin, and benzalkonium chloride versus oral metronidazole for the treatment of bacterial vaginosis (BV).

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted among women diagnosed with BV using the Amsel criteria (n=90) at a university hospital in Khon Kaen, Thailand, between June 27, 2017, and April 30, 2018. The oral metronidazole group (n=44) received 400 mg of metronidazole, administered three times per day. The combined vaginal tablet group (n=46) received a vaginal suppository once daily, which comprised nystatin (100 000 U), diiodohydroxyquin (100 mg), and benzalkonium chloride (7 mg). Treatment was administered for 7 days in both groups. Follow‐up visits at 14 and 42 days assessed treatment outcomes and adverse effects.

Results

Remission of BV occurred among 41 (93%) women in the oral metronidazole group and 39 (85%) women in the combined vaginal tablet group. The adjusted relative risk was 0.92 (95% confidence interval 0.80–1.06). The rate of nausea and/or vomiting was significantly higher in the oral metronidazole group than that in the combined vaginal tablet group.

Conclusion

Treatment efficacy of the combined vaginal tablet versus oral metronidazole was equivalent.

Clinical trial registration: TCTR20170627001 (www.clinicaltrials.in.th).