bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A High‐Performance Li–B–H Electrolyte for All‐Solid‐State Li Batteries
Authors: Lu Fuqiang , Pang Yuepeng , Zhu Mengfei , Han Fudong , Yang Junhe , Fang Fang , Sun Dalin , Zheng Shiyou , Wang Chunsheng
Published: February 2019

Highly Li‐ion conductive Li4(BH4)3I@SBA‐15 is synthesized by confining the LiI doped LiBH4 into mesoporous silica SBA‐15. Uniform nanoconfinement of P63
mc phase Li4(BH4)3I in SBA‐15 mesopores leads to a significantly enhanced conductivity of 2.5 × 10−4 S cm−1 with a Li‐ion transference number of 0.97 at 35 °C. The super Li‐ion mobility in the interface layer with a thickness of 1.2 nm between Li4(BH4)3I and SBA‐15 is believed to be responsible for the fast Li‐ion conduction in Li4(BH4)3I@SBA‐15. Additionally, Li4(BH4)3I@SBA‐15 also exhibits a wide apparent electrochemical stability window (0 to 5 V vs Li/Li+) and a superior Li dendrite suppression capability (critical current density 2.6 mA cm−2 at 55 °C) due to the formation of stable interphases. More importantly, Li4(BH4)3I@SBA‐15‐based Li batteries using either high‐capacity sulfur cathode or high‐voltage oxide cathode show excellent electrochemical performances, making Li4(BH4)3I@SBA‐15 a very attractive electrolyte for next‐generation all‐solid‐state Li batteries.
3D Heteroatom‐Doped Carbon Nanomaterials as Multifunctional Metal‐Free Catalysts for Integrated Energy Devices
Authors: Paul Rajib , Du Feng , Dai Liming , Ding Yong , Wang Zhong Lin , Wei Fei , Roy Ajit
Published: February 2019

Sustainable and cost‐effective energy generation has become crucial for fulfilling present energy requirements. For this purpose, the development of cheap, scalable, efficient, and reliable catalysts is essential. Carbon‐based heteroatom‐doped, 3D, and mesoporous electrodes are very promising as catalysts for electrochemical energy conversion and storage. Various carbon allotropes doped with a variety of heteroatoms can be utilized for cost‐effective mass production of electrode materials. 3D porous carbon electrodes provide multiple advantages, such as large surface area, maximized exposure to active sites, 3D conductive pathways for efficient electron transport, and porous channels to facilitate electrolyte diffusion. However, it is challenging to synthesize and functionalize isotropic 3D carbon structures. Here, various synthesis processes of 3D porous carbon materials are summarized to understand how their physical and chemical properties together with heteroatom doping dictate the electrochemical catalytic performance. Prospects of attractive 3D carbon structural materials for energy conversion and efficient integrated energy systems are also discussed.
Synthetic Butterfly Scale Surfaces with Compliance‐Tailored Anisotropic Drop Adhesion
Authors: Zhao Hangbo , Park Sei Jin , Solomon Brian R. , Kim Sanha , Soto Dan , Paxson Adam T. , Varanasi Kripa K. , Hart A. John
Published: February 2019

Many natural surfaces such as butterfly wings, beetles' backs, and rice leaves exhibit anisotropic liquid adhesion; this is of fundamental interest and is important to applications including self‐cleaning surfaces, microfluidics, and phase change energy conversion. Researchers have sought to mimic the anisotropic adhesion of butterfly wings using rigid surface textures, though natural butterfly scales are sufficiently compliant to be deflected by capillary forces exerted by drops. Here, inspired by the flexible scales of the Morpho aega butterfly wing, synthetic surfaces coated with flexible carbon nanotube (CNT) microscales with anisotropic drop adhesion properties are fabricated. The curved CNT scales are fabricated by a strain‐engineered chemical vapor deposition technique, giving ≈5000 scales of ≈10 µm thickness in a 1 cm2 area. Using various designed CNT scale arrays, it is demonstrated that the anisotropy of drop roll‐off angle is influenced by the geometry, compliance, and hydrophobicity of the scales; and a maximum roll‐off anisotropy of 6.2° is achieved. These findings are supported by a model that relates the adhesion anisotropy to the scale geometry, compliance, and wettability. The electrical conductivity and mechanical robustness of the CNTs, and the ability to fabricate complex multidirectional patterns, suggest further opportunities to create engineered synthetic scale surfaces.
Temperature‐Mediated Microfluidic Extrusion of Structurally Anisotropic Hydrogels
Authors: Khuu Nancy , Alizadehgiashi Moien , Gevorkian Albert , Galati Elizabeth , Yan Ning , Kumacheva Eugenia
Published: February 2019

In this study, microfluidic extrusion of structurally anisotropic hydrogel sheets formed by cellulose nanocrystal methacrylate (CNC‐MA) and gelatin methacryloyl (Gel‐MA) is reported. The precursor CNC‐MA/Gel‐MA ink has temperature‐responsive and shear‐thinning properties, which make it compatible with extrusion‐based printing. To preserve shear‐induced CNC‐MA alignment, the extruded hydrogels are cooled down and photocrosslinked. It is shown that by varying the cooling temperature, the degree of structural anisotropy of the CNC‐MA/Gel‐MA hydrogels can be controlled, which is further augmented by varying the volumetric flow rate during extrusion. The structural anisotropy of the hydrogels is preserved at physiological temperatures (37 °C) for 7 days. The hydrogel sheets exhibit anisotropic mechanical and swelling properties with enhanced mechanical strength and reduced swelling along the extrusion direction. The design and use of this hydrogel expands the ability to create structurally anisotropic hydrogels with applications in biological and biomedical research, soft robotics and fundamental studies of anisotropy‐induced properties.
Predicting Operational Stability for Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes with Exciplex Cohosts
Authors: Wang Zhiheng , Li Mengke , Gan Lin , Cai Xinyi , Li Binbin , Chen Dongcheng , Su Shi‐Jian
Published: February 2019

Organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) employing exciplex cohosts have gained attractive interest due to the promising high efficiency, low driving voltage, and potential low cost in future solid‐state lighting sources and full‐color displays. However, their device lifetime is still the most challenging weakness and rarely studied, which is regarded as a time consuming and complicated work. Therefore, a simplified but effective and comprehensive approach is demonstrated to give prediction for the exciplex cohosts operating lifespan and analyze their possible degradation mechanisms by considering molecular dissociated activation energy with internal exciton dynamics correlations. As a consequence, strong chemical bond stability for the hole transport moieties and rapid reactive exciton relaxation have the intrinsic talent to access potentially long‐lived exciplex cohosts, achieving an extended lifetime of 10169 h for the predicted long‐lived exciplex cohost OLEDs. Degradation behaviors further confirm that the deteriorated source is attributed to the formation of exciton quenchers and hole traps from excited states and charged‐excited states, respectively. The current findings establish a universal technique to screen the stable exciplex cohost candidates with economic time consumption and expenses.
Interdigitated Ambipolar Active Layer for Organic Phototransistor with Balanced Charge Transport
Authors: Jeong Uijin , Tarsoly Gergely , Lee Junghyun , Eun Youngmoo , Do Junghwan , Pyo Seungmoon
Published: February 2019

The formation and characterization of interdigitated ambipolar active layers prepared by a hybrid (solution processing and thermal vacuum evaporation) method for a polymer‐gated organic phototransistor with highly balanced ambipolar charge transport is reported. The interdigitated active layer is comprised of a solution‐processed single‐crystalline microcrystal array of p‐type 6,13‐bis(triisopropylsilylethynyl)pentacene (TIPS‐pentacene) and a thin film of n‐type N,N′‐ditridecylperylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic diimide (PTCDI‐C13). The TIPS‐pentacene single‐crystalline microcrystal, which is confirmed using X‐ray diffractometry and polarized optical microscopy, is embedded in the PTCDI‐C13 film deposited using a thermal vacuum evaporation method. The devices with the interdigitated active layer exhibit selective charge transport characteristics varying from unipolar to ambipolar depending on the thickness of the PTCDI‐C13 film. The fabricated ambipolar organic transistor shows high photoresponsivity at low light intensities and good dynamic photoresponse. These results demonstrate the potential use of such devices in ambipolar optoelectronic applications.
High Thermoelectric Power Factor and ZT in TbAs:InGaAs Epitaxial Nanocomposite Material
Authors: Tew Bo E. , Vempati Pratyusha , Clinger Laura E. , Bomberger Cory C. , Halaszynski Nicole I. , Favaloro Tela , Seol Jae H. , Feser Joseph P. , Majumdar Arun , Shakouri Ali , Bowers John E. , Bahk Je‐Hyeong , Zide Joshua M. O.
Published: February 2019

Lanthanide monopnictide (Ln‐V) nanoparticles embedded within III–V semiconductors, specifically in In0.53Ga0.47As, are interesting for thermoelectric applications. The electrical conductivity, Seebeck coefficient, and power factor of co‐deposited TbAs:InGaAs over the temperature range of 300–700 K are reported. Using Boltzmann transport theory, it is shown that TbAs nanoparticles in InGaAs matrix give rise to an improved Seebeck coefficient due to an increase in scattering, such as ionized impurity scattering. TbAs nanoparticles act as electron donors in the InGaAs matrix while having minimal effects on electron mobility, and maintain high electrical conductivity. There is further evidence that TbAs nanoparticles act as energy dependent electron scattering sites, contributing to an increased Seebeck coefficient at high temperature. These results show that TbAs:InGaAs nanocomposite thinfilms containing low concentrations, specifically 0.78% TbAs:InGaAs, display high electrical conductivity, reduced thermal conductivity, improved Seebeck coefficient, and demonstrated ZT of power factors as high as 7.1 × 10−3 W K−2 m−1 and ZT as high as 1.6 at 650 K.
Negligible‐Pb‐Waste and Upscalable Perovskite Deposition Technology for High‐Operational‐Stability Perovskite Solar Modules
Authors: Jiang Yan , Remeika Mikas , Hu Zhanhao , Juarez‐Perez Emilio J. , Qiu Longbin , Liu Zonghao , Kim Taehoon , Ono Luis K. , Son Dae‐Yong , Hawash Zafer , Leyden Matthew R. , Wu Zhifang , Meng Lingqiang , Hu Jinsong , Qi Yabing
Published: February 2019

An upscalable perovskite film deposition method combining raster ultrasonic spray coating and chemical vapor deposition is reported. This method overcomes the coating size limitation of the existing stationary spray, single‐pass spray, and spin‐coating methods. In contrast with the spin‐coating method (>90% Pb waste), negligible Pb waste during PbI2 deposition makes this method more environmentally friendly. Outstanding film uniformity across the entire area of 5 cm × 5 cm is confirmed by both large‐area compatible characterization methods (electroluminescence and scattered light imaging) and local characterization methods (atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, photoluminescence mapping, UV–vis, and X‐ray diffraction measurements on multiple sample locations), resulting in low solar cell performance decrease upon increasing device area. With the FAPb(I0.85Br0.15)3 (FA = formamidinium) perovskite layer deposited by this method, champion solar modules show a power conversion efficiency of 14.7% on an active area of 12.0 cm2 and an outstanding shelf stability (only 3.6% relative power conversion efficiency decay after 3600 h aging). Under continuous operation (1 sun light illumination, maximum power point condition, dry N2 atmosphere with <5% relative humidity, no encapsulation), the devices show high light‐soaking stability corresponding to an average T80 lifetime of 535 h on the small‐area solar cells and 388 h on the solar module.
Carbon/Binder‐Free NiO@NiO/NF with In Situ Formed Interlayer for High‐Areal‐Capacity Lithium Storage
Authors: Li Yan‐Fei , Shi Yan‐Hong , Wang Shu‐Guang , Liu Jin‐Hua , Lin Jian , Xia Yu , Wu Xing‐Long , Fan Chao‐Ying , Zhang Jing‐Ping , Xie Hai‐Ming , Sun Hai‐Zhu , Su Zhong‐Min
Published: February 2019

Achieving high areal capacity is a challenge for current lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). To address this issue, nickel foam (NF), as a free‐standing skeleton suffers from long‐term poor anchor ability for active materials, resulting in detachment from conductive substrates. In addition, the weighty NF damages the overall energy density of the electrode. Herein, an in situ fabrication of interlayer strategy is proposed to effectively address these issues through constructing layer‐by‐layer a 3D structure composed of an inner conductive framework, medial NiO layer, and outer few‐layer NiO nanoflowers in turn (NiO@NiO/NF). The interlayer derived from partial oxidation of NF not only reinforces the attachment of the active layer on NF but also contributes capacity to the whole electrode, leading to excellent stability and areal capacity. When used as the anode of LIBs, ultrahigh reversible capacity of 1.98 mAh cm−2 is delivered at 1.20 mA cm−2. The electrode still maintains good integrity and flexibility after 1000 cycles, showing good structure stability. Compared with previous reports, NiO@NiO/NF is one of the most outstanding NiO‐based electrodes. This work proposes a feasible strategy to enhance the capacity and stability of self‐supporting electrodes, and opens a new avenue for high‐areal‐capacity anode of LIBs.
Efficient Li‐Ion‐Conductive Layer for the Realization of Highly Stable High‐Voltage and High‐Capacity Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Lee Jung‐In , Shin Myungsoo , Hong Dongki , Park Soojin
Published: February 2019

Recently, a consensus has been reached that using lithium metal as an anode in rechargeable Li‐ion batteries is the best way to obtain the high energy density necessary to power electronic devices. Challenges remain, however, with respect to controlling dendritic Li growth on these electrodes, enhancing compatibility with carbonate‐based electrolytes, and forming a stable solid–electrolyte interface layer. Herein, a groundbreaking solution to these challenges consisting in the preparation of a Li2TiO3 (LT) layer that can be used to cover Li electrodes via a simple and scalable fabrication method, is suggested. Not only does this LT layer impede direct contact between electrode and electrolyte, thus avoiding side reactions, but it assists and expedites Li‐ion flux in batteries, thus suppressing Li dendrite growth. Other effects of the LT layer on electrochemical performance are investigated by scanning electron microscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and galvanostatic intermittent titration technique analyses. Notably, LT layer‐incorporating Li cells comprising high‐capacity/voltage cathodes with reasonably high mass loading (LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2, LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4, and LiMn2O4) show highly stable cycling performance in a carbonate‐based electrolyte. Therefore, it is believed that the approach based on the LT layer can boost the realization of high energy density lithium metal batteries and next‐generation batteries.
Coming in Warm: Qualitative Study and Concept Map to Cultivate Patient‐centered Empathy in Emergency Care
Authors: Pettit Katie E. , Rattray Nicholas A. , Wang Hao , Stuckey Shanna , Mark Courtney D. , Messman Anne M. , Kline Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2019

Background

Increased empathy may improve patient perceptions and outcomes. No training tool has been derived to teach empathy to emergency care providers. Accordingly, we engaged patients to assist in creating a concept map to teach empathy to emergency care providers.

Methods

We recruited patients, patient caretakers and patient advocates with emergency department experience to participate in three separate focus groups (n = 18 participants). Facilitators guided discussion about behaviors that physicians should demonstrate to rapidly create trust; enhance patient perception that the physician understood the patient's point of view, needs, concerns, and fears; and optimize patient/caregiver understanding of their experience. Verbatim transcripts from the three focus groups were read by the authors, and by consensus, five major themes with 10 minor themes were identified. After creating a codebook with thematic definitions, one author reviewed all transcripts to a library of verbatim excerpts coded by theme. To test for inter‐rater reliability, two other authors similarly coded a random sample of 40% of the transcripts. Authors independently chose excerpts that represented consensus and strong emotional responses from participants.

Results

Approximately 90% of opinions and preferences fell within 15 themes, with five central themes: provider transparency, acknowledgment of patient's emotions, provider disposition, trust in physician, and listening. Participants also highlighted the need for authenticity, context, and individuality to enhance empathic communication. For empathy map content, patients offered example behaviors that promote perceptions of physician warmth, respect, physical touch, knowledge of medical history, explanation of tests, transparency, and treating patients as partners. The resulting concept map was named the “Empathy Circle.”

Conclusions

Focus group participants emphasized themes and tangible behaviors to improve empathy in emergency care. These were incorporated into the Empathy Circle, a novel concept map that can serve as the framework to teach empathy to emergency care providers.
Theory of dissolution and precipitation waves—redux
Authors: Ghaderi Zefreh Masoud , Doster Florian , Hesse Marc A.
Published: February 2019

We present a local equilibrium theory for the reactive transport of two salts that share an anion in an ideal solution. We revisit this classic problem using the theory of hyperbolic partial differential equations accounting for the volume of precipitates. We construct analytical solutions for the 2 × 2 system of conservation laws in the absence of hydrodynamic dispersion. The character of the system depends on the saturation of the salts, that is, whether the fluid is saturated with both, either of the two or none of the salts. We provide a comprehensive analysis of the system and its solution. Each primitive variable, the amount of precipitate and the concentration of ions, remains constant along one class of waves that propagate in the system. The analysis of the system allows identification of seven bifurcations with respect to the intermediate state.
Prevalence of pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants in the RASopathy genes in patients who have had panel testing for cardiomyopathy
Authors: Aljeaid Deema , Sanchez Ana Isabel , Wakefield Emily , Chadwell Sarah E. , Moore Nicole , Prada Carlos E. , Zhang Wenying
Published: February 2019

RASopathies are a group of developmental disorders caused by pathogenic variants in the RAS‐MAPK pathway. Cardiomyopathy is a major feature of this group of disorders, specifically hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). HCM can be the first presenting feature in individuals with RASopathies. We conducted a retrospective study of all individuals who have had a cardiomyopathy gene panel ordered through our institution to determine the prevalence of pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in RAS pathway genes in individuals with cardiomyopathy. We evaluated variants in the following genes: BRAF, CBL, HRAS, KRAS, MAP2K1, MAP2K2, NF1, NRAS, PTPN11, RAF1, SHOC2, and SOS1. We reviewed 74 cases with cardiomyopathy, including 32 with HCM, 24 with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), nine with both left ventricular noncompaction (LVNC) and DCM, four with LVNC only, two with arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) and three with unspecified cardiomyopathy. We identified four patients (5.41%) with pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in HRAS, PTPN11 and RAF1 (two individuals). Indication for testing for all four individuals was HCM. The prevalence of pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants in RASopathy genes in our HCM patient cohort is 12.5% (4/32). We conclude that the RASopathy genes should be included on multi‐gene panels for cardiomyopathy to increase diagnostic yield for individuals with HCM.
A case–control–family study of idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder
Authors: Liu Yaping , Zhang Jihui , Lam Siu Ping , Zhou Junying , Yu Mandy Wai Man , Li Shirley Xin , Chan Joey Wing Yan , Postuma Ronald B. , Mok Vincent Chung Tong , Wing Yun Kwok
Published: February 2019

Objective

To determine the familial aggregation of idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (iRBD), neurodegenerative diseases, and related biomarkers.

Methods

A total of 404 and 387 first‐degree relatives of 102 patients with iRBD and of 89 controls were recruited, respectively. Among them, 204 and 208 relatives of patients and controls underwent face‐to‐face clinical assessment, whereas 97 and 75 relatives underwent further video‐polysomnographic assessment, respectively.

Results

Compared with relatives of controls, relatives of patients demonstrated higher levels of RBD features, including chin tonic electromyography activity (mean = 1.5 ± 7.5 vs 0.3 ± 1.0, p = 0.04) and behavioral events (n [weighted %] = 12 [11.3] vs 2 [1.9], adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 7.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.54–33.33, p = 0.009) during rapid eye movement sleep, probable diagnosis (n [%] = 57 [14.9] vs 20 [4.9], aHR = 3.45, 95% CI = 1.96–6.25, p < 0.001), and definite diagnosis (n [weighted %] = 10 [8.4] vs 2 [1.4], aHR = 5.56, 95% CI = 1.16–25.00, p = 0.03). They also had higher risks of Parkinson disease (3.1% vs 0.5%, aHR = 5.88, 95% CI = 1.37–25.00, p = 0.02), dementia (6.9% vs 2.6%, aHR = 2.44, 95% CI = 1.15–5.26, p = 0.02), constipation (8.3% vs 2.4%, adjusted odds ratio = 4.21, 95% CI = 1.34–13.17, p = 0.01), and motor dysfunction (Movement Disorders Society Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale part III motor score, mean = 1.9 ± 3.2 vs 0.9 ± 2.3, p = 0.002). The unaffected relatives of patients demonstrated a higher likelihood ratio of prodromal Parkinson disease (median [interquartile range] = 0.27 [1.19] vs 0.22 [0.51], p = 0.03).

Interpretation

iRBD is familially aggregated from isolated features to full‐blown sleep disorder. Relatives of patients carry a higher risk of alpha‐synucleinopathy in terms of neurodegenerative diseases and prodromal markers, suggesting a familial aggregation and staging pathology of alpha‐synucleinopathy. Ann Neurol 2019;85:582–592
Parents Making Meaning of High‐Conflict Divorce
Authors: Treloar Rachel
Published: February 2019

This article reports on the findings of an empirical study conducted with 25 parents in British Columbia, Canada, who experienced a high‐conflict divorce and later came to see the experience as having been transformative despite the difficulties they faced. While considerable research and policy initiatives frame high‐conflict divorce as an individual and interpersonal problem, there is less reference to the fact that these disputes occur in a social, political, and legal context that also changes over time and across generations. There has been little research examining long‐term divorce outcomes, and no research to date examining how mothers and fathers who experienced a high‐conflict divorce process overcome their difficulties and make meaning of their experiences retrospectively. This interdisciplinary study starts to fill these gaps. Following an overview of the study findings, the article highlights common themes arising from parents' narratives with a particular focus on agency, voice, and meaning‐making across the life course. I argue that by taking a long view of the challenges participants faced, it is possible to move away from decontextualised understandings of high‐conflict divorce.
Superhydrophobic–superoleophilic electrospun nanofibrous membrane modified by the chemical vapor deposition of dimethyl dichlorosilane for efficient oil–water separation
Authors: Zareei Pour Faride , Sabzehmeidani Mohammad Mehdi , Karimi Hajir , Madadi Avargani Vahid , Ghaedi Mehrorang
Published: February 2019

Superhydrophobic and superoleophilic functionalized electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) membranes with water repellence, breathability, and oil‐sorption and oil–water separation properties were achieved with a combination of an electrospinning technique and the chemical vapor deposition of dichlorodimethyl silane. The samples were laterally characterized by scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, water contact angle measurement, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The maximum water contact angle value was 152.0 ± 2.5° for the PVDF nanofibrous membranes with 500 μL of deposited silane (PMS2) obtained under certain conditions. The PMS2 membranes showed 100.0, 93.7, 23.3, 35.0, and 100.0% separation efficiencies forn‐hexane, kerosene, crude oil, frying oil, and toluene, respectively. The understudy membrane exhibited reasonable waterproofness and remarkable breathability (water vapor transition rate = 215.21 g/m2.h). Moreover, the superhydrophobic and superoleophilic nanofibrous membranes also showed good reusability, stability, moderate water‐repellent properties, breathability, antifouling properties, and oil–water separation ability after several cycles. These properties confirmed potential in feasible applications, including protective cloths and in the purification of oil‐polluted water. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2019,136, 47621.
Prevalence, Treatment, and Outcomes of Coexistent Pulmonary Hypertension and Interstitial Lung Disease in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Young Amber , Vummidi Dharshan , Visovatti Scott , Homer Kate , Wilhalme Holly , White Eric S. , Flaherty Kevin , McLaughlin Vallerie , Khanna Dinesh
Published: February 2019

Objective

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is associated with interstitial lung disease (ILD) and pulmonary hypertension (PH). This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence, characteristics, treatment, and outcomes of PH in a cohort of patients with SSc‐associated ILD.

Methods

Patients with SSc‐associated ILD on high‐resolution computed tomography (HRCT) were included in a prospective observational cohort. Patients were screened for PH based on a standardized screening algorithm and underwent right‐sided heart catheterization (RHC) if indicated. PH classification was based on hemodynamic findings and the extent of ILD on HRCT. Summary statistics and survival using the Kaplan‐Meier method were calculated.

Results

Of the 93 patients with SSc‐associated ILD included in the study, 76% were women and 65.6% had diffuse cutaneous SSc. The mean age was 54.9 years, and the mean SSc disease duration was 8 years. Twenty‐nine patients (31.2%) had RHC‐proven PH; of those 29 patients, 24.1% had PAH, 55.2% had World Health Organization (WHO) Group III PH, 34.5% had WHO Group III PH with pulmonary vascular resistance >3.0 Wood units, 48.3% had a PH diagnosis within 7 years of SSc onset, 82.8% received therapy for ILD, and 82.8% received therapy for PAH. The survival rate 3 years after SSc‐associated ILD diagnosis for all patients was 97%. The survival rate 3 years after PH diagnosis for those with SSc‐associated ILD and PH was 91%.

Conclusion

In a large cohort of patients with SSc‐associated ILD, a significant proportion of patients had coexisting PH, which often occurs early after SSc diagnosis. Most patients were treated with ILD and PAH therapies, and survival was good. Patients with SSc‐associated ILD should be evaluated for coexisting PH.
Mode‐dependent seamless transfer control strategy of a microgrid via a small‐signal stability approach
Authors: Wu Ying , Guerrero Josep M. , Wu Yanpeng
Published: February 2019

A microgrid is an effective solution to enhance the integration of distributed renewable energy resources, which can operate both in grid connected mode and islanded mode. In order to reduce the jumps of the system variables within acceptable limits to ensure the system has good transient performance and power quality in multiple operating modes, seamless transfer is the key problem to be considered. In this paper, due to the different multiple equilibrium points for the two operating modes, the dynamics of every operating mode re modeled as a subsystem with all the variables that are needed to be synchronized. Linearization is carried out respectively for the two operation modes on the different equilibriums in a state‐space form based on the small‐signal stability method. To reduce the conservatism of the unified controller, the concept of the relative Lyapunov function is introduced to derive a multiple segmental Lyapunov method and a robust feedback mode‐dependent switching controller is designed to achieve smooth transfer by making the deviation energy of the two modes both converge to the zero point. To rapidly detect the switching signal, a sparse communication network is introduced by the use of low bandwidth communication links to broadcast the switching signal to each distributed controller. Finally, two microgrid test systems were built in SIMULINK to show the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed seamless transfer control strategies.
Making sense of recommendations
Authors: Yeomans Michael , Shah Anuj , Mullainathan Sendhil , Kleinberg Jon
Published: February 2019

Computer algorithms are increasingly being used to predict people's preferences and make recommendations. Although people frequently encounter these algorithms because they are cheap to scale, we do not know how they compare to human judgment. Here, we compare computer recommender systems to human recommenders in a domain that affords humans many advantages: predicting which jokes people will find funny. We find that recommender systems outperform humans, whether strangers, friends, or family. Yet people are averse to relying on these recommender systems. This aversion partly stems from the fact that people believe the human recommendation process is easier to understand. It is not enough for recommender systems to be accurate, they must also be understood.
Application of quality indicators to data from the National Network of Congenital Anomalies of Argentina
Authors: Groisman Boris , Barbero Pablo , Mastroiacovo Pierpaolo , Botto Lorenzo D. , Bidondo María Paz , Liascovich Rosa
Published: February 2019

Background

In Argentina, birth defects are a leading cause of infant deaths. In 2009, the National Network for Congenital Anomalies of Argentina (RENAC) was established as a hospital‐based surveillance system of major structural birth defects. To assess and enhance the system's data quality, we previously developed data quality indicators (DQI). Our aim was to evaluate quality indicators in RENAC.

Methods

We applied the DQI presented in a related publication to the 2016 RENAC data.

Results

Among the DQI of description, spina bifida coverage and talipes had the lowest results. Regarding prevalence of hypospadias, it was lower than the defined threshold. RENAC did not achieve the ascertainment threshold of a prevalence of 21.5 per 10,000 for critical congenital heart defects. There was a high ratio of spina bifida to anencephaly.

Conclusions

DQI provide a focus for improving quality, making decisions, and advocating for interventions. Examples include advocating for newborn screening of critical congenital heart defects with pulse oximetry; developing training programs for clinicians to improve the detection of isolated hypospadias; and developing visual tools and checklists to improve the completeness and accuracy of case description for spina bifida, talipes, and other major malformations. After the interventions, it is important to track the impact by measuring again the DQI.
Gut microbiota signatures and lipids metabolism profiles by exposure to polyene phosphatidylcholine
Authors: Yu Haining , Yu Zhen , Huang Haiyong , Li Peng , Tang Qiu , Wang Xique , Shen Shengrong
Published: February 2019

The aim of the study was to address the causality links and identify specific features of the gut microbiota signatures contributing to host lipids metabolism in the presence or absence of polyene phosphatidylcholine (PPC) administration, and evaluate potential risk of PPC consumption. About 20 C57BL/6J mice were randomly allocated into two groups, normal diet group (CK) and PPC administration group (205.2 mg/kg). Compared with CK group, the contents of unsaturated fatty acids were increased and the saturated fatty acids were decreased in PPC group. The content of free fatty acids (FFA) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were significantly decreased (P < 0.05), and expression of carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A), cluster of differentiation 36 (CD36), liver fatty acid binding protein (L‐FABP), fatty acid transport protein 5 (FATP5), and fatty acid synthase (FASN) were significantly decreased in the mRNA and protein levels after treated by PPC (P < 0.05, P < 0.01). Also, we found that acetic acid in feces was significantly increased after consumption of PPC (P < 0.05). After PPC administration the relative abundances of Firmicutes and Clostridia were increased within the phylum level and the class level, respectively. Microbial abundances in genus level were dominated by Lachnospiraceae and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group, whereas the proportion of sequences assigned to Bacteroidetes within the phylum level, class Bacteroidias and Mollicutes, order Anaeroplasmatalesl, genus Bacteroidales_S24‐7_group were decreased in metagenomes of treated group with PPC and did not significantly influence on the accumulation of trimethylamine‐N‐oxide (TMAO). This study revealed that intake of PPC could regulate the gut microbiota signatures and lipids metabolism in mice without TMAO accumulations. © 2019 BioFactors, 45(3):439–449, 2019
A literature review for the mechanisms of stress‐induced liver injury
Authors: Joung Jin‐Yong , Cho Jung‐Hyo , Kim Yun‐Hee , Choi Seung‐Hoon , Son Chang‐Gue
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Experimental studies and clinical observations have shown that stress can damage hepatic tissue both directly and indirectly. Many studies have partially revealed the contributors of stress‐induced liver injury; however, the whole process has not yet been uncovered. This review aims to summarize the mechanisms that have been proposed to be involved.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PubMed (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed) in its entirety up to March 2018, and analyzed the animal‐derived mechanistic studies on stress‐induced liver injury.

Results

The liver is the organ that meets and filters a mass of alien material, and then maintains immune tolerance under physiological conditions. Under stress conditions, however, immune tolerance is interrupted, which results in the induction of inflammation in the liver. Contributors to this process can be categorized as follows: hypoxia‐reoxygenation, over‐activation of Kupffer cells and oxidative stress, influx of gut‐derived lipopolysaccharide and norepinephrine, and over‐production of stress hormones and activation of the sympathetic nerve.

Conclusions

Psychological stress is associated with a variety of pathological conditions resulting in liver injury through multiple systems, including the sympathetic nervous and adrenocortical system. Mechanistic understanding of this phenomenon is important for the clinical practice of managing patients with hepatic disorders and should be explored further in the future.
Spinal cord tissue affects sprouting from aortic fragments in ex vivo co‐culture
Authors: Mikhailova Mariya M. , Panteleyev Andrey A. , Paltsev Mikhail A. , Panteleyev Andrey A.
Published: February 2019

It is a well‐known fact, that there is a close interconnection between vascular and neural structures in both embryonic development and postnatal life. Different models have been employed to dissect the mechanisms of these interactions, ranging from in vitro systems (e.g., co‐culture of neural and endothelial cells) to in vivo imaging of central neural system recovery in laboratory animals after artificially induced trauma. Nevertheless, most of these models have serious limitations. Here, we describe an ex vivo model, representing an organotypic co‐culture of aortic fragments (AF) with longitudinal slices of mouse neonatal spinal cord (SC) or dorsal root ganglia (DRG). The samples were co‐cultured in a medium adapted for SC tissue and lacking any pro‐angiogenic or neurotrophic growth factors. It was found, that cultivation of AFs in the SC injury zone (transversal dissection of a SC slice) resulted in the initiation of active aortic sprouting. Remarkably, the endothelial cells exiting the AFs never invaded the SC tissue, concentrating in a nearby area (negative taxis). In contrast, the DRGs, while also promoting the sprouting, were a target of active endothelial CD31+ cell invasion (positive taxis). Thus, the tissues of both central and peripheral nervous systems have a prominent positive effect on aortic sprouting, while the vector of endothelial cell expansion is strictly nervous‐tissue‐type dependent. The ex vivo AF co‐culture with SC or DRG appeared to be a useful and promising model for a further endeavor into the mechanisms driving the complex interactions between neural and endothelial tissues.
Trimethyl Phosphate for Nonflammable Carbonate‐Based Electrolytes for Safer Room‐Temperature Sodium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zhao Xiao‐Min , Yan Yong‐Wang , Ren Xiao‐Xia , Chen Liang , Xu Shou‐Dong , Liu Shi‐Bin , Wang Xiao‐Min , Zhang Ding
Published: February 2019

To address the safety concern for room‐temperature sodium‐sulfur batteries, such as fires easily triggered by organic electrolytes, an applicable non‐flammable electrolyte formula was developed by introducing trimethyl phosphate (TMP) into 1.0 M NaClO4‐ethylene carbonate/propylene carbonate electrolyte. It is demonstrated that the electrolyte containing 15 wt.% TMP was a optimized formula, exhibiting nonflammability, thermal stability, electrochemical compatibility and lasting cell performance. Using this optimized electrolyte formula, the sulfur cathode exhibited a stable capacity of 788 mAh g−1 at a rate of 0.1 C and excellent rate capability of 441 and 177 mAh g−1 for 200 cycles at rates of 1 C and 5 C, respectively. When the TMP content further increases to 25 wt.%, the specific capacity of batteries declined significantly due to unstable SEI. Our study can shed light on the development of flame‐retardant electrolyte for room‐temperature sodium‐sulfur or other batteries.
One Pot Synthesis of FeCo/N‐Doped 3D Porous Carbon Nanosheets as Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for the Oxygen Reduction and Evolution Reactions
Authors: Gao Rongzhen , Yin Yanhong , Niu Fuquan , Wang Aili , Li Shaoyu , Dong Hongyu , Yang Shuting
Published: February 2019

In this work, FeCo/N‐doped porous carbon nanosheets (FeCo/NPC) were in‐situ synthesised as bifunctional oxygen catalyst following a sodium chloride (NaCl) template‐assisted strategy. The results show that this strategy assists in generating a 3D interconnected carbon nanosheets network with hierarchical pores and a larger specific surface area through a stencil effect. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results show that the Fe 2p3/2 and Co 2p3/2 core‐level binding energy (BE) of the FeCo/NPC catalyst exhibits a positive shift compared to monometallic catalysts, which is associated with downshifts of the d‐band position of the metal by alloying and weakening of the interaction between oxygenic species and metal surfaces, thereby improving the catalytic activity. The FeCo/NPC catalyst shows excellent electrocatalytic activity for bothoxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in alkaline solution: a high onset potential of 0.92 V (vs. RHE), only 10 mV difference of half‐wave potential comparable with commercial Pt/C (20 wt%), a high current retention of 95.7 % after stability test of 20000 s for ORR and a potential of 1.68 V (vs. RHE) for OER at 10 mA ⋅ cm−2. The high catalytic performance of the FeCo/NPC catalyst and the simplicity of the synthesis method provide a possibility for its practical application in metal‐air batteries.
Single Pt–Pd Bimetallic Nanoparticle Electrode: Controllable Fabrication and Unique Electrocatalytic Performance for the Methanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Tang Haoran , Hao Huan , Zhu Jiahui , Guan Xianping , Qiu Baijing , Li Yongxin
Published: February 2019

Understanding the electrocatalytic activity at single nanoparticles/nanoclusters level is extremely important. In this work, a method for the electro‐deposition of single Pt–Pd nanoparticles (NPs) is described using a single nanopore electrode as a template. The electro‐deposition process was investigated carefully and the results show that the process is controlled by diffusion and electro‐crystallization process, simultaneously, and the glass sheath property around the nanopore has a large impact on the formation of single Pt–Pd NPs due to the “edge effect”. The prepared single Pt–Pd NPs exhibit excellent electrocatalytic activity in the methanol oxidation reaction, which can be used to screen electrocatalysts with high efficiency for utility in the energy field.
Solid‐Phase Synthesis and Purification of Protein–DNA Origami Nanostructures
Authors: Burgahn Teresa , Garrecht Ruben , Rabe Kersten S. , Niemeyer Christof M.
Published: February 2019

Invited for the cover of this issue are C. M. Niemeyer and co‐workers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). The cover picture shows a comic hero with magnetic superpowers who pulls pure, protein‐decorated DNA origami nanostructures out of a crude reaction mixture. Read the full text of the article at
10.1002/chem.201805506.
Venous Thromboembolic Disease: Diagnosis and Use of Antithrombotic Therapy
Authors: HYERS T. M.
Published: February 2019

Several invasive and noninvasive tests are available to aid the clinician in the diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Contrast venography remains the standard for diagnosing deep venous thrombosis of the lower extremity, while impedance plethysmography is sensitive, specific, and noninvasive. Compressive duplex ultrasonography is useful for deep venous thrombosis of the thigh down to the popliteal vein. The ventilation‐perfusion lung scan is the most common test for diagnosing pulmonary embolism, but pulmonary angiography remains the standard. Heparin is the mainstay of treatment for deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, with an important role played by warfarin therapy.
Catheter‐Related Thrombosis
Authors: WILLIAMS E. C.
Published: February 2019

The use of indwelling central catheters for administration of chemotherapy, blood products, and parenteral nutrition is becoming increasingly common. Thrombosis, manifested as formation of either a fibrin sleeve around the catheter or a thrombus adherent to the vessel wall, is a major complication of the use of such catheters. Although frequently asymptomatic, thrombosis may cause catheter occlusion, vascular obstruction, septic phlebitis, or pulmonary embolism. The pathophysiology and management of catheter thrombosis are discussed.
Surface Characterizations and Selective Etching of Sr‐Rich Segregation on Top of SrVO3 Thin‐Films Grown by Pulsed Laser Deposition
Authors: Bourlier Yoan , Frégnaux Mathieu , Bérini Bruno , Fouchet Arnaud , Dumont Yves , Aureau Damien
Published: February 2019

Since SrVO3 (SVO) can be used as a highly conductive material for perovskite heterostructures, the control of surface morphology and chemistry of such thin‐films are essential. Using pulsed laser deposition, two distinct topographies can be produced. Thus, by tuning oxygen pressure in the growth chamber during cooling, smooth or partially covered by self‐oriented Sr3V2O8 nanorods surfaces can be grown. This study manages to correlate the two typical topographies, revealed by atomic force microscopy (AFM), with their chemical compositions obtained by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). At first, a model describes their initial surface chemistry through the Sr/V cationic ratio and the (Sr+V)/Oox ratio. Furthermore, using sputter‐depth profiling, post‐thermal treatments and wet chemical etching, SVO thin‐film chemical compositions are extensively studied. We demonstrate that they are composed of stoichiometric SVO phase covered by Sr‐rich layer on top. Finally, treatment in water for 180 seconds helps to remove Sr‐rich phases. Sr3V2O8 nanorods are found selectively dissolved leaving a surface nano‐imprint. Moreover, on smooth SVO surfaces, a balanced Sr/V cationic ratio of 1.0±0.1 is obtained. These results appear very promising for SVO thin‐films surface preparation and further development as electrodes for electronic devices.
Effects of the Peripheral Substituents, Central Metal, and Solvent on the Photochemical and Photophysical Properties of 5,15‐Diazaporphyrins
Authors: Omomo Satoshi , Fukuda Ryosuke , Miura Tomoaki , Murakami Tatsuya , Ikoma Tadaaki , Matano Yoshihiro
Published: February 2019

Metal complexes of 3,7,13,17‐tetrakis(di(4‐carboxyphenyl)amino)‐5,15‐diazaporphyrin (MDAP‐COOH; M=Pd, Cu) and their ethyl ester precursors (MDAP‐COOEt; M=Pd, Cu) have been synthesized for use as near‐infrared (NIR)‐light‐responsive photosensitizers. Under irradiation with visible or NIR light, PdDAP‐COOEt in toluene generated singlet oxygen (1O2) with an excellent quantum yield (ΦΔ=0.99), whereas CuDAP‐COOEt exhibited a lower efficiency (ΦΔ=0.21). The water‐soluble PdII complex PdDAP‐COOH also behaved as a photosensitizer (ΦΔ=0.20) in a micellar solution. The photophysical properties of these dyes were measured by transient absorption techniques. It was found that the efficiency of the energy transfer from the triplet state of MDAP‐COOR (R=Et, H) to the ground state of dioxygen was highly dependent on the peripheral substituents, the central metal, and the solvent. Furthermore, the phototoxicity of PdDAP‐COOH toward HeLa cells under irradiation of NIR light (720 nm) was evaluated. As expected, PdDAP‐COOH exhibited good photodynamic activity, and control experiments confirmed that 1O2 was generated as the active oxygen species.
Tuning Merocyanine Photoacid Structure to Enhance Solubility and Temporal Control: Application in Ring Opening Polymerization
Authors: Zayas Manuel S. , Dolinski Neil D. , Self Jeffrey L. , Abdilla Allison , Hawker Craig J. , Bates Christopher M. , Read de Alaniz Javier
Published: February 2019

Herein we report the development of a merocyanine‐based photoacid with improved solubility in organic media and enhanced switching kinetics that can be used to impart temporal control over ring opening polymerization. The effect of the structural modification on solubility, thermal relaxation kinetics and activation energy were evaluated using 1H NMR and pump‐probe absorption spectroscopies. Overall, the new merocyanine based photoacid provides access to a wider range of chemical and material applications with improved solvent compatibility and temporal control.
Morphological and Optical Characteristics of Transition Metal Doped PVT Grown Zinc Selenide Single Crystal
Authors: Singh Narsingh Bahadur , Su Ching‐Hua , Arnold Bradley , Choa Fow‐Sen , Cullum Brian , Sova Stacey , Cooper Christopher
Published: February 2019

An experimental study on the absorption, emission, crystal quality, and morphological characteristics of the transition metal doped zinc selenide (ZnSe) crystals is performed. This study focuses on the effect of dopant and thermal convection on crystal characteristics. Two ZnSe crystals, one doped with Fe2+ and the other with Cr2+, are grown using the physical vapor transport method. The bulk crystal samples are further divided into localized zones and overall crystallinity is evaluated using optical transparency, scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffraction analyses. Gross defects, such as large precipitates, inclusions and voids, are not observed. The radial segregation and its effect on morphology and optical fluorescence and emission are studied for both doped crystals using different spots along the radius for both crystals. The absorption and emission properties are investigated and the results are discussed in terms of the energy levels from which the optical transitions occur.