bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of β‐nucleating agent and zeolite molecular sieves on supercritical CO2‐assisted cell and crystal nucleation during the long‐chain‐branched polypropylene foaming
Authors: Jiang Hanchuan , Yu Kesong , Mi Jianguo , Zhou Hongfu , Chen Shihong , Wang Xiangdong
Published: June 2019

It is of great interest and importance to design and fabricate the double crystal melting peak (DCMP) structure for the expanded polypropylene (EPP) bead foams during sintering. Two kinds of methods with different mechanisms were proposed to prepare long‐chain‐branched polypropylene (LCBPP) samples with a DCMP structure: One was that the DCMP structure was prepared by generating crystals of different perfection degrees and the other one was that the DCMP structure was prepared by adding β‐NA to produce various crystal forms. In addition, zeolite molecular sieve (ZMS) as the synergist was introduced into LCBPP/β‐NA system to increase the efficiency of β‐NA. The crystallization behaviors of various PP and their foams were tested by differential scanning calorimetry and wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction, as well as the cellular morphologies of various LCBPP foams were observed by scanning electron microscope. The results showed that a DCMP structure was formed in pure LCBPP in the presence of CO2 at 168–172 °C. The content of β‐crystal in LCBPP/β‐NA system was the highest when the content of β‐NA optimized as 1.5 phr. The percentage of β‐crystal in LCBPP/β‐NA system was further increased when a small content (0.045 phr) of ZMS was added. Compared with that in unfoamed LCBPP, the percentage of β‐crystal in LCBPP foams was obviously enhanced, due to the coupling effect of crystal nucleation and cell nucleation. In the LCBPP foams, the cell size became smaller and the cell density became larger, owing to the addition of ZMS. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 48183.
Mesoporous Rh Emerging from Nanophase‐separated Rh‐Y Alloy
Authors: Najib Abdillah Sani Bin Mohd , Peng Xiaobo , Hashimoto Ayako , Shoji Shusaku , Iida Takayuki , Bai Yunxing , Abe Hideki
Published: June 2019

Mesoporous precious metals with abundant active sites and high surface area have been widely recognized as high‐performance catalytic materials. However, the templated synthesis is complex and costly. Herein, we report a mesoporous rhodium (m‐Rh) that can be readily synthesized from entangled nanofibres of Rh and Y2O3 without templates. The entangled nanofibres, prepared from uniform Rh‐Y alloys under redox atmosphere, were the key precursor in the synthesis processes. Moreover, the m‐Rh efficiently catalyzed carbon dioxide reforming of methane (DRM) at a low reaction temperature of 683 K. Further, electrochemical methods of CO electro‐oxidation were innovatively used to demonstrate the stability of CO and oxygen species for the DRM reaction.
PBA@POM Hybrids as Efficient Electrocatalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wang Yuyin , Wang Yan , Zhang Li , Liu Chun‐Sen , Pang Huan
Published: June 2019

To realize the effective conversion of renewable energy through water decomposition, efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are essential. In this article, PBA@POM was successfully prepared with a Prussian blue analogue (PBA) as the initial structure. A facile hydrothermal process is reported for obtaining PBA@POM by etching the cubic PBA with a strong Brønsted acid, H3PMo12O40 (HPMo). The hollow cube structure not only exposes more active sites but also promotes electron transport, which results in excellent electrocatalytic activity for the OER. Compared with the PBA, which initially simply adhered to POM, the optimum PBA@POM hybrids display remarkably enhanced OER catalytic activity, with an almost constant overpotential of 440 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope (23.45 mV dec−1). The facilely prepared PBA@POM with good electrochemical activity and stability promises great potential for the OER.
Stability and stabilization of evolutionary games with time delays via matrix method
Authors: Gao Xiaoye , Wang Jinhuan , Yang Dedong
Published: June 2019

This paper studies the stability and stabilization of a class of evolutionary games (EGs) with time delays via the semi‐tensor product (STP) method. First, the matrix expression of the EGs with time delays is given, and then it is converted into the form without delay equivalently. By designing Lyapunov function, a necessary and sufficient condition for the global stability of delayed EGs is obtained. To deal with the delayed EGs with multiple equilibriums, the controlled EGs with time delays is investigated. An intermittent state feedback control is proposed, in which the controller works only at certain strategy profiles. Based on the intermittent control, two necessary and sufficient conditions are provided to assure the stabilization of the controlled EGs with time delays. Some examples are worked out to illustrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Searching for Sympatric Speciation in the Genomic Era
Authors: Richards Emilie J. , Servedio Maria R. , Martin Christopher H.
Published: June 2019

Sympatric speciation illustrates how natural and sexual selection may create new species in isolation without geographic barriers. However, recent genomic reanalyses of classic examples of sympatric speciation reveal complex histories of secondary gene flow from outgroups into the radiation. In contrast, the rich theoretical literature on this process distinguishes among a diverse range of models based on simple genetic histories and different types of reproductive isolating barriers. Thus, there is a need to revisit how to connect theoretical models of sympatric speciation and their predictions to empirical case studies in the face of widespread gene flow. Here, theoretical differences among different types of sympatric speciation and speciation‐with‐gene‐flow models are reviewed and summarized, and genomic analyses are proposed for distinguishing which models apply to case studies based on the timing and function of adaptive introgression. Investigating whether secondary gene flow contributed to reproductive isolation is necessary to test whether predictions of theory are ultimately borne out in nature.
Nuclear fast red‐based colorimetric sensors for sensitive and selective detection of Ag ions
Authors: Xiong Yuan , Wang Yi , Han Xue , Ma Yao , Zhu Han Fang , Long YunFei , Chen Shu
Published: June 2019

The reduction of nuclear fast red (NFR) stain by sodium tetrahydroboron was catalyzed in the presence of silver ions (Ag+). The fluorescence properties of reduced NFR differed from that of NFR. The product showed fluorescence emission at 480 nm with excitation at 369 nm. Furthermore, the fluorescence intensity of the mixture increased strongly in the presence of Ag+ and Britton–Robinson buffer at pH 4.78. There was a good linear relationship between increased fluorescence intensity (ΔI) and Ag+ concentration in the range 5.0 × 10−9 to 5.0 × 10−8 M. The correlation coefficient was 0.998, and the detection limit (3σ/k) was 1.5 × 10−9 M. The colour of the reaction system changed with variation in Ag+ concentration over a wide range. Based on the colour change, a visual semiquantitative detection method for recognition and sensing of Ag+ was developed for the range 1.0 × 10−8 to 5.0 × 10−4 M, with an indicator that was visible to the naked eye. Therefore, a sensitive, simple method for determination of Ag+ was developed. Optimum conditions for Ag+ detection, the effect of other ions and the analytical application of Ag+ detection of synthesized sample were investigated.
Reduced m6A modification predicts malignant phenotypes and augmented Wnt/PI3K‐Akt signaling in gastric cancer
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Zhang Mengqi , Ge Sai , Huang Wenwen , Lin Xiaoting , Gao Jing , Gong Jifang , Shen Lin
Published: June 2019

Background

As the most abundant epigenetic modification on mRNAs and long non‐coding RNAs, N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification extensively exists in mammalian cells. Controlled by writers (methyltransferases), readers (signal transducers), and erasers (demethylases), m6A influences mRNA structure, maturation, and stability, thus negatively regulating protein expression in a post‐translational manner. Nevertheless, current understanding of m6A's roles in tumorigenesis, especially in gastric cancer (GC) remains to be unveiled. In this study, we assessed m6A's clinicopathological relevance to GC and explored the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

By referring to a proteomics‐based GC cohort we previously generated and the TCGA‐GC cohort, we merged expressions of canonical m6A writers (METTL3/METTL14), readers (YTHDF1/YTHDF2/YTHDF3), and erasers (ALKBH5/FTO), respectively, as W, R, and E signatures to represent m6A modification. We stratified patients according to these signatures to decipher m6A's associations with crucial mutations, prognosis, and clinical indexes. m6A's biological functions in GC were predicted by gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and validated by in vitro experiments.

Results

We discovered that W and R were potential tumor suppressive signatures, while E was a potential oncogenic signature in GC. According to W/R/E stratifications, patients with low m6A‐indications were accompanied with higher mutations of specific genes (CDH1, AR, GLI3, SETBP1, RHOA, MUC6, and TP53) and also demonstrated adverse clinical outcomes. GSEA suggested that reduced m6A was correlated with oncogenic signaling and phenotypes. Through in vitro experiments, we proved that m6A suppression (represented by METTL14 knockdown) promoted GC cell proliferation and invasiveness through activating Wnt and PI3K‐Akt signaling, while m6A elevation (represented by FTO knockdown) reversed these phenotypical and molecular changes. m6A may also be involved in interferon signaling and immune responses of GC.

Conclusions

Our work demonstrated that low‐m6A signatures predicted adverse clinicopathological features of GC, while the reduction of RNA m6A methylation activated oncogenic Wnt/PI3K‐Akt signaling and promoted malignant phenotypes of GC cells.
Factors Governing the Thermal Stability of Lasso Peptides
Authors: Hegemann Julian D.
Published: June 2019

Lasso peptides belong to the natural product superfamily of ribosomally synthesized and post‐translationally modified peptides (RiPPs). They are defined by an N‐terminal macrolactam ring that is threaded by the C‐terminal tail. In class II lasso peptides, this fold is maintained only through steric hindrance. Nonetheless, this fold can often withstand prolonged incubation at highly elevated temperatures. However, some lasso peptides will irreversibly unthread into their branched‐cyclic counterparts upon heating. In recent years, an increasing number of research studies have focused on studying the factors that govern the thermal stability (or the lack thereof) of lasso peptides by using in vitro stability assays, mutational analysis, and molecular dynamics simulations. In this review, the current state of understanding the physicochemical parameters deciding the fate of a lasso peptide at elevated temperatures is discussed, and an overview is given of the techniques developed to streamline the separation and discrimination of lasso peptides from their branched‐cyclic topoisomers.
PtPdNi Catalysts Supported on Porous Carbon for Ethanol Electro‐oxidation
Authors: Arroyo‐Gómez José J. , Barrera Deicy , Castagna Rodrigo M. , Sieben Juan Manuel , Alvarez Andrea E. , Duarte Marta M. E , Sapag Karim
Published: June 2019

In this work, we prepared four electrocatalysts based on trimetallic PtPdNi nanoparticles on different carbon supports, i. e., i) two activated carbons produced from biomass, ii) micro‐mesoporous carbon synthesized by the nanocasting method, and iii) commercial carbon black. The electrocatalytic activity of the prepared materials was tested in the electro‐oxidation of ethanol in alkaline medium. Well‐distributed nanoparticles with sizes in the range of 3.5–5.2 nm were obtained through galvanic replacement. The bulk Pt, Pd and Ni contents were about 65, 25 and 15 at. %, measured by EDX and ICP‐AES. By XPS the surface Pt : Pd atomic ratios were in the range of 1.82–2.2. Electrochemical experiments showed that the trimetallic nanoparticles deposited over micro‐mesoporous carbon material exhibit the highest electrochemical activity towards ethanol electro‐oxidation in alkaline medium. Results showed that both synthetic carbon and biomass‐derived carbon are suitable materials to support electrocatalysts in low‐temperature fuel cells.
Hierarchical‐dimensional Material: A Co(OH)2 Superstructure with Hybrid Dimensions for Enhanced Water Oxidation
Authors: Qi Jing , Chen Mingxing , Zhang Wei , Cao Rui
Published: June 2019

Herein, we propose the concept of hierarchical‐dimensional materials (HDMs), which are 3D superstructures built by low‐dimensional single‐crystalline substructures. HDMs combine the low‐ and high‐dimensional features and are a new class of promising functional materials toward electrochemical reactions. We reported a hierarchical‐dimensional cobalt hydroxide nanosheet assembly for electrocatalytic water oxidation. The assembling is 1D‐oriented, the substructures are 2D nanosheets, and 3D voids are created in the material. The as‐prepared material achieved superior electrocatalytic activity than isolated substructures. The better performance is associated with the improved mass transport, which is demonstrated by the analysis of kinetic‐controlled currents. This protocol can also be applied in preparing efficient catalysts on the surface of industrial current collectors. The proposed concept of HDMs might open a new area of functional materials in heterogeneous electrocatalysis.
Structure and Energetics of Ligand–Fluorine Interactions with Galectin‐3 Backbone and Side‐Chain Amides: Insight into Solvation Effects and Multipolar Interactions
Authors: Kumar Rohit , Ignjatović Majda Misini , Peterson Kristoffer , Olsson Martin , Leffler Hakon , Ryde Ulf , Nilsson Ulf J. , Logan Derek T.
Published: June 2019

Multipolar fluorine–amide interactions with backbone and side‐chain amides have been described as important for protein–ligand interactions and have been used to improve the potency of synthetic inhibitors. In this study, fluorine interactions within a well‐defined binding pocket on galectin‐3 were investigated systematically using phenyltriazolyl‐thiogalactosides fluorinated singly or multiply at various positions on the phenyl ring. X‐ray structures of the C‐terminal domain of galectin‐3 in complex with eight of these ligands revealed potential orthogonal fluorine–amide interactions with backbone amides and one with a side‐chain amide. The two interactions involving main‐chain amides seem to have a strong influence on affinity as determined by fluorescence anisotropy. In contrast, the interaction with the side‐chain amide did not influence affinity. Quantum mechanics calculations were used to analyze the relative contributions of these interactions to the binding energies. No clear correlation could be found between the relative energies of the fluorine–main‐chain amide interactions and the overall binding energy. Instead, dispersion and desolvation effects play a larger role. The results confirm that the contribution of fluorine–amide interactions to protein–ligand interactions cannot simply be predicted, on geometrical considerations alone, but require careful consideration of the energetic components.
Prolidase enzyme is required for extracellular matrix integrity and impacts on postnatal cerebellar cortex development
Authors: Insolia Violetta , Priori Erica C. , Gasperini Caterina , Coppa Federica , Cocchia Marco , Iervasi Erika , Ferrari Beatrice , Besio Roberta , Maruelli Silvia , Bernocchi Graziella , Forlino Antonella , Bottone Maria G.
Published: June 2019

The extracellular matrix is essential for brain development, lamination, and synaptogenesis. In particular, the basement membrane below the pial meninx (pBM) is required for correct cortical development. The last step in the catabolism of the most abundant protein in pBM, collagen Type IV, requires prolidase, an exopeptidase cleaving the imidodipeptides containing pro or hyp at the C‐terminal end. Mutations impairing prolidase activity lead in humans to the rare disease prolidase deficiency characterized by severe skin ulcers and mental impairment. Thus, the dark‐like (dal) mouse, in which the prolidase is knocked‐out, was used to investigate whether the deficiency of prolidase affects the neuronal maturation during development of a brain cortex area. Focusing on the cerebellar cortex, thinner collagen fibers and disorganized pBM were found. Aberrant cortical granule cell proliferation and migration occurred, associated to defects in brain lamination, and in particular in maturation of Purkinje neurons and formation of synaptic contacts. This study deeply elucidates a link between prolidase activity and neuronal maturation shedding new light on the molecular basis of functional aspects in the prolidase deficiency.
Insights into the Aggregation Behaviour of a Benzoselenadiazole‐Based Compound and Generation of White Light Emission
Authors: Maiti Sayan , Jadhav Rohit G. , Mobin Shaikh M. , Mukherjee Tushar K. , Das Apurba K.
Published: June 2019

We have designed and synthesized the benzoselenadiazole (BDS) based donor‐acceptor‐donor (D‐A‐D) π‐conjugated compound 4,7‐di((E)styryl)benzo[2,1,3]selenadiazole (1). A single‐crystal study of 1 shows J‐type molecular aggregation in the solid state. The crystal packing of 1 shows head‐to‐head dimeric intermolecular assembly via Se⋅⋅⋅N interactions while staircase‐type interlock molecular packing has occurred via Se⋅⋅⋅π interaction. The staircase‐type interlock packing of dimeric molecular arrangement induces sheet‐type, herringbone type architecture along crystallographic a axis and ab plane via CH⋅⋅⋅π interactions. Interestingly, the J‐type aggregation of 1 in solid state changes to H‐type aggregation upon UV‐irradiation. Moreover, our spectroscopic findings in solution state reveal H‐type of aggregation of 1 in 90 % aqueous THF. We have further demonstrated white light emission in the binary mixture of 1 and 1‐pyrenemethanol (2) in 90 % aqueous THF. Our study reveals solvent specific co‐assembly of H‐aggregated 1 and 2 in 90 % aqueous THF solution, which shows white light emissive properties with the Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE) chromaticity coordinates (0.32, 0.31). The observed white light emission arises mainly due to the combination of red light from H‐aggregated 1, blue light from monomeric 2 and green light from excimers of 2.
Zirconium Oxycarbide: A Highly Stable Catalyst Material for Electrochemical Energy Conversion
Authors: Shakibi Nia Niusha , Hauser Daniel , Schlicker Lukas , Gili Albert , Doran Andrew , Gurlo Aleksander , Penner Simon , Kunze‐Liebhäuser Julia
Published: June 2019

Metal carbides and oxycarbides have recently gained considerable interest due to their (electro)catalytic properties that differ from those of transition metals and that have potential to outperform them as well. The stability of zirconium oxycarbide nanopowders (ZrO0.31C0.69), synthesized via a hybrid solid‐liquid route, is investigated in different gas atmospheres from room temperature to 800 °C by using in‐situ X‐ray diffraction and in‐situ electrical impedance spectroscopy. To feature the properties of a structurally stable Zr oxycarbide with high oxygen content, a stoichiometry of ZrO0.31C0.69 has been selected. ZrO0.31C0.69 is stable in reducing gases with only minor amounts of tetragonal ZrO2 being formed at high temperatures, whereas it decomposes in CO2 and O2 gas atmosphere. From online differential electrochemical mass spectrometry measurements, the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) onset potential is determined at −0.4 VRHE. CO2 formation is detected at potentials as positive as 1.9 VRHE as ZrO0.31C0.69 decomposition product, and oxygen is anodically formed at 2.5 VRHE, which shows the high electrochemical stability of this material in acidic electrolyte. This peopwery makes the material suited for electrocatalytic reactions at anodic potentials, such as CO and alcohol oxidation reactions, in general.
Severe Hyponatremia Is Often Drug Induced: 10‐Year Results of a Prospective Pharmacovigilance Program
Authors: Ramírez Elena , Rodríguez Amelia , Queiruga Javier , García Irene , Díaz Lucía , Martínez Lucía , Muñoz Raúl , Muñoz Mario , Tong Hoi Y. , Martínez José Carlos , Borobia Alberto M. , Carcas Antonio J. , Frías Jesús
Published: June 2019

We conducted a prospective evaluation of drug‐induced severe hyponatremia  (adverse drug reaction (ADR)) through the Prospective Pharmacovigilance Program from Laboratory Signals at Hospital over a period of 10 years. Cases of serum sodium (Na(s)) < 116 mM were recorded from July 2007 to June 2017 (first period). Also cases of Na(s) 116–122 mM were recorded from July 2012 to June 2017 (second period). Drugs were the primary cause of severe hyponatremia. The incidence rate of Na(s) < 116 mM by drugs was increased threefold over the decade. Compared with other causes of hyponatremia, patients with adverse drug reaction–serum sodium (ADR‐Na(s)) in the first period were older (79 years (interquartile range (IQR) 68.6–89 vs. 65 years (IQR 48–81); P < 0.001) and were more often women (70.8% vs. 48.9% men, P < 0.001); in the second period were also older (79 years (IQR 65.3–89) vs. 63 years (IQR 46–80.6); P < 0.001) and were more often women (70% vs. 53%, P = 0.002), and ADR‐Na(s) occurred more often in summer. The most frequent therapeutic groups of culprit drugs were the cardiovascular system and nervous system. The 65.3% in the first period and 71.2% in the second period of the ADR‐Na(s) cases responded to hydration and had been diagnosed with hypovolemic hyponatremia.
Effects of livestock grazing on soil, plant functional diversity, and ecological traits vary between regions with different climates in northeastern Iran
Authors: Rahmanian Soroor , Hejda Martin , Ejtehadi Hamid , Farzam Mohammad , Memariani Farshid , Pyšek Petr
Published: June 2019

Understanding the responses of vegetation characteristics and soil properties to grazing in different precipitation regimes is useful for the management of rangelands, especially in the arid regions. In northeastern Iran, we studied the responses of vegetation to livestock grazing in three regions with different climates: arid, semiarid, and subhumid. In each region, we selected 6–7 pairwise sampling areas of high versus low grazing intensity and six traits of the present species were recorded on 1 m2 plots—five grazed and five ungrazed in each area. The overall fertility was compared using the dissimilarity analysis, and linear mixed‐effect models were used to compare the individual fertility parameters, functional diversity indices, and species traits between the plots with high and low grazing intensity and between the climatic regions. Both climate and grazing, as well as their interaction, affected fertility parameters, functional diversity indices, and the representation of species traits. Grazing reduced functional evenness, height of the community, the representation of annuals, but increased the community leaf area. In the subhumid region, grazing also reduced functional richness. Further, grazing decreased the share of annual species in the semiarid region and seed mass in the arid region. Larger leaf area and seed mass, smaller height and lower share of annuals were associated with intensive grazing. Species with large LA and seed mass, lower height and perennials can be therefore presumed to tolerate trampling and benefit from high nutrient levels, associated with intensive grazing. By providing a detailed view on the impacts of overgrazing, this study highlights the importance of protection from grazing as an effective management tool for maintaining the pastoral ecosystems. In general, the composition of plant traits across the pastures of northeastern Iran was more affected by intensive grazing than by the differences in climate.
Distinct mechanisms of hypoglycaemia in patients with somatostatin‐secreting neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Wiesli Peter , Pavlicek Vojtech , Brändle Michael , Pfammatter Thomas , Perren Aurel , Schmid Christoph
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Somatostatin‐secreting neuroendocrine tumours may present with diabetes, cholelithiasis and steatorrhoea. In addition, hypoglycaemia has been associated with somatostatinomas. However, the mechanism of hypoglycaemia in patients with somatostatinomas has not been well characterized.

Methods

We describe two patients with recurrent neuroglycopenic episodes caused by somatostatin‐secreting neuroendocrine tumours in the liver, detected by abdominal CTs and whole‐body octreotide scintigraphy scans and confirmed by biopsy.

Results

Pancreatic islet hyperplasia and co‐secretion of insulin (in addition to somatostatin) from tumour cells, respectively, have been characterized as completely distinct mechanisms of hypoglycaemia at both the functional and morphological levels in these two patients.

Conclusions

Hypoglycaemia may be caused by different mechanisms in patients with somatostatinomas.
Pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of peripartum cardiomyopathy: a position statement from the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology Study Group on peripartum cardiomyopathy
Authors: Bauersachs Johann , König Tobias , van der Meer Peter , Petrie Mark C. , Hilfiker‐Kleiner Denise , Mbakwem Amam , Hamdan Righab , Jackson Alice M. , Forsyth Paul , de Boer Rudolf A. , Mueller Christian , Lyon Alexander R. , Lund Lars H. , Piepoli Massimo F. , Heymans Stephane , Chioncel Ovidiu , Anker Stefan D. , Ponikowski Piotr , Seferovic Petar M. , Johnson Mark R. , Mebazaa Alexandre , Sliwa Karen
Published: June 2019

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a potentially life‐threatening condition typically presenting as heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in the last month of pregnancy or in the months following delivery in women without another known cause of heart failure. This updated position statement summarizes the knowledge about pathophysiological mechanisms, risk factors, clinical presentation, diagnosis and management of PPCM. As shortness of breath, fatigue and leg oedema are common in the peripartum period, a high index of suspicion is required to not miss the diagnosis. Measurement of natriuretic peptides, electrocardiography and echocardiography are recommended to promptly diagnose or exclude heart failure/PPCM. Important differential diagnoses include pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, hypertensive heart disease during pregnancy, and pre‐existing heart disease. A genetic contribution is present in up to 20% of PPCM, in particular titin truncating variant. PPCM is associated with high morbidity and mortality, but also with a high probability of partial and often full recovery. Use of guideline‐directed pharmacological therapy for HFrEF is recommended in all patients respecting contraindications during pregnancy/lactation. The oxidative stress‐mediated cleavage of the hormone prolactin into a cardiotoxic fragment has been identified as a driver of PPCM pathophysiology. Pharmacological blockade of prolactin release using bromocriptine as a disease‐specific therapy in addition to standard therapy for heart failure treatment has shown promising results in two clinical trials. Thresholds for devices (implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators, cardiac resynchronization therapy and implanted long‐term ventricular assist devices) are higher in PPCM than in other conditions because of the high rate of recovery. The important role of education and counselling around contraception and future pregnancies is emphasised.
Stepwise Photoinduced Electron Transfer in a Tetrathiafulvalene‐Phenothiazine‐Ruthenium Triad
Authors: Skaisgirski Michael , Larsen Christopher B. , Kerzig Christoph , Wenger Oliver S.
Published: June 2019

A molecular triad comprising a [Ru(bpy)3]2+ (bpy = 2,2′‐bipyridine) photosensitizer, a primary phenothiazine (PTZ) donor and a secondary (extended) tetrathiafulvalene (exTTF) donor was synthesized and explored by UV/Vis transient absorption spectroscopy. Initial photoinduced electron transfer from PTZ to the 3MLCT‐excited [Ru(bpy)3]2+ occurs within less than 60 ps, and subsequently PTZ is regenerated by electron transfer from exTTF with a time constant of 300 ps. The resulting photoproduct comprising exTTF·+ and [Ru(bpy)3]+ has a lifetime of 6100 ps in de‐aerated CH3CN at room temperature. Additional one‐ and two‐pulse laser flash photolysis studies of the triad were performed in the presence of excess methyl viologen (MV2+), to explore the possibility of light‐driven charge accumulation on exTTF. MV2+ clearly oxidized [Ru(bpy)3]+ and thereby re‐instated ground‐state [Ru(bpy)3]2+ in triads in which exTTF had been oxidized to exTTF·+, but further excitation of the solution containing the exTTF·+‐PTZ‐[Ru(bpy)3]2+ photoproduct did not provide evidence for exTTF2+. Nevertheless, it seems that the design principle of a covalent donor‐donor‐sensitizer triad (as opposed to simpler donor‐sensitizer dyads) is beneficial for light‐driven accumulation of oxidation equivalents. These investigations are relevant in the greater context of multi‐electron photoredox chemistry and artificial photosynthesis.
Accuracy of the short‐form Montreal Cognitive Assessment: Systematic review and validation
Authors: McDicken Jennifer A. , Elliott Emma , Blayney Gareth , Makin Stephen , Ali Myzoon , Larner Andrew J. , Quinn Terence J. ,   on behalf of the VISTA‐Cognition Collaborators
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Short‐form versions of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (SF‐MoCA) are increasingly used to screen for dementia in research and practice. We sought to collate evidence on the accuracy of SF‐MoCAs and to externally validate these assessment tools.

Methods

We performed systematic literature searching across multidisciplinary electronic literature databases, collating information on the content and accuracy of all published SF‐MoCAs. We then validated all the SF‐MoCAs against clinical diagnosis using independent stroke (n = 787) and memory clinic (n = 410) data sets.

Results

We identified 13 different SF‐MoCAs (21 studies, n = 6477 participants) with differing test content and properties. There was a pattern of high sensitivity across the range of SF‐MoCA tests. In the published literature, for detection of post stroke cognitive impairment, median sensitivity across included studies: 0.88 (range: 0.70‐1.00); specificity: 0.70 (0.39‐0.92). In our independent validation using stroke data, median sensitivity: 0.99 (0.80‐1.00); specificity: 0.40 (0.14‐0.87). To detect dementia in older adults, median sensitivity: 0.88 (0.62‐0.98); median specificity: 0.87 (0.07‐0.98) in the literature and median sensitivity: 0.96 (range: 0.72‐1.00); median specificity: 0.36 (0.14‐0.86) in our validation. Horton's SF‐MoCA (delayed recall, serial subtraction, and orientation) had the most favorable properties in stroke (sensitivity: 0.90, specificity: 0.87, positive predictive value [PPV]: 0.55, and negative predictive value [NPV]: 0.93), whereas Cecato's “MoCA reduced” (clock draw, animal naming, delayed recall, and orientation) performed better in the memory clinic (sensitivity: 0.72, specificity: 0.86, PPV: 0.55, and NPV: 0.93).

Conclusions

There are many published SF‐MoCAs. Clinicians and researchers using a SF‐MoCA should be explicit about the content. For all SF‐MoCA, sensitivity is high and similar to the full scale suggesting potential utility as an initial cognitive screening tool. However, choice of SF‐MoCA should be informed by the clinical population to be studied.
Associations Between Body Fat, Muscle Mass, and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Population‐Based Study
Authors: Hsing Julianna C. , Nguyen Mindie H. , Yang Baiyu , Min Yan , Han Summer S. , Pung Emily , Winter Sandra J. , Zhao Xueyin , Gan Da , Hsing Ann W. , Zhu Shankuan , Wang C. Jason
Published: June 2019

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most common forms of liver disease worldwide and has emerged as a significant public health concern in China. A better understanding of the etiology of NAFLD can inform effective management strategies for this disease. We examined factors associated with NAFLD in two districts of Hangzhou, China, focusing on the relationship of regional body fat distribution, muscle mass, and NAFLD. We used baseline data to carry out a cross‐sectional analysis among 3,589 participants from the Wellness Living Laboratory (WELL) China study, a longitudinal population‐based study that aims to investigate and promote well‐being among the Chinese population. NAFLD was defined using the widely validated fatty liver index (FLI). Multivariate logistic regressions were performed to assess independent associations between NAFLD and metabolic risk factors (e.g., insulin resistance) and dual x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA)‐derived measures (e.g., android fat ratio [AFR] and skeletal muscle index [SMI]). Of the 3,589 participants, 476 (13.3%) were classified as having FLI‐defined NAFLD (FLI ≥60). Among those, 58.0% were men. According to our analysis, AFR (odds ratio [OR], 10.0; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.8‐18.5), insulin resistance (OR, 4.0; 95% CI, 3.0‐5.3), high alanine aminotransferase levels (OR, 7.6; 95% CI, 5.8‐10.0), smoking (OR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.4‐3.0), and male sex (OR, 2.9; 95% CI, 2.0‐4.2) were positively associated with NAFLD risk, while SMI (OR, 0.1; 95% CI, 0.07‐0.13) was inversely associated with NAFLD risk. Conclusion: In addition to known metabolic risk factors, DXA‐derived AFR and SMI may provide additional insights to the understanding of NAFLD. Interventions that aim to decrease AFR and increase SMI may be important to reduce the burden of NAFLD in this population.
Hall current effect on the peristaltic motion of synovial nanofluid with magnetohydrodynamics
Authors: Hasona Wahed M.
Published: June 2019

This paper examines the influence of magnetic field on peristaltic flow of synovial nanofluid in an asymmetric channel. Hall current, thermophoresis, and Brownian motion effects are taken into account. Our problem is discussed for two models, in the first model which referred as Model (I), viscosity is considered exponentially dependent on the concentration, and Model (II) Shear thinning index is considered function of concentration. The governing problem is reformulated under the assumption of low Reynolds number and high wavelength. Resulting system of equations are solved numerically with the aid of Parametric ND Solve. Detailed comparisons have been made between Model (I) and Model (II) and found unrealistic results between them. Results for velocity, temperature and nanoparticle concentration distributions as well as pressure gradient and pressure rise are offered graphically for different values of various physical parameters. It is found that the velocity of fluid decreases in semi‐curved lines in case of Model (I) with the increase of while, in Model (II) it decreases in the left side of the channel and increases in the right side of that channel. Such models are applicable to rheumatoid arthritis treatment.
Disease detection at the 48‐month exit round of the HPV FOCAL cervical cancer screening trial in women per‐protocol eligible for routine screening
Authors: Coldman Andrew J. , van Niekerk Dirk , Krajden Mel , Smith Laurie W. , Cook Darrel , Gondara Lovedeep , Ceballos Kathy , Quinlan David J. , Lee Marette , Elwood‐Martin Ruth , Gentile Laura , Peacock Stuart , Stuart Gavin C.E. , Franco Eduardo L. , Ogilvie Gina S.
Published: June 2019

HPV FOCAL is a randomized control trial of cervical cancer screening. The intervention arm received baseline screening for high‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV) and the control arm received liquid‐based cytology (LBC) at baseline and 24 months. Both arms received 48‐month exit HPV and LBC cotesting. Exit results are presented for per‐protocol eligible (PPE) screened women. Participants were PPE at exit if they had completed all screening and recommended follow‐up and had not been diagnosed with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia Grade 2 or worse (CIN2+) earlier in the trial. Subgroups were identified based upon results at earlier trial screening. There were 9,457 and 9,552 and women aged 25–65 randomized to control and intervention and 7,448 (77.8%) and 8,281 (86.7%), respectively, were PPE and screened. Exit cotest results were similar (p = 0.11) by arm for PPE and the relative rate (RR) of CIN2+ for intervention vs. control was RR = 0.83 (95% CI: 0.56–1.23). The RR for CIN2+ comparing intervention women baseline HPV negative to control women with negative cytology at baseline and at 24 months, was 0.68 (95% CI: 0.43–1.06). PPE women who had a negative or CIN1 colposcopy in earlier rounds had elevated rates (per 1,000) of CIN2+ at exit, control 31 (95% CI: 14–65) and intervention 43 (95% CI: 25–73). Among PPE women HPV negative at exit LBC cotesting identified little CIN2+, Rate = 0.3 (95% CI: 0.1–0.7). This per‐protocol analysis found that screening with HPV using a 4‐year interval is as safe as LBC with a 2‐year screening interval. LBC screening in HPV negative women at exit identified few additional lesions.
CONTRAD 70, AN EFFECTIVE SOFTENER OF HERBARIUM MATERIAL FOR ANATOMICAL STUDY
Authors: Schmid Rudolf , Turner Melvin D.
Published: June 2019

Dried plant material can be prepared for anatomical (or general taxonomic) study by soaking it in a 2% to 5% aqueous solution of Contrad 70 until adequate expansion of the tissue is achieved (this occurring in one to several hours). Advantages of Contrad 70 over Aerosol OT (Ayensu 1967) include: more rapid and effective expansion of tissue, better appearance of sectioned tissue due to removal of slight amounts of obfuscating tannins, and easier microtoming of material due to Contrad's greater softening ability. Contrad has no or very little effect on cutin, starch, crystals, tannins, and secretory compounds.
CONVENIENT METHOD FOR STUDYING GRASS LEAF EPIDERMIS
Authors: Hilu Khidir W. , Randall John L.
Published: June 2019

Leaf epidermis of grasses is structurally elaborate and quite important in modern systematics of the Poaceae. Available techniques used in preparing leaf epidermis for microscopic studies are time‐consuming and do not always produce adequate preparations. A simple and convenient technique is proposed in this paper which requires the application of a film of clear nail polish directly to the leaf surface. The impressions left on the polish film after drying produce an excellent detailed image of the epidermis. This technique is also applicable to other plant families.
A RECIRCUMSCRIPTION OF THE PHORMIACEAE AGARDH
Authors: Henderson R. F. J. , Clifford H. T.
Published: June 2019

Family Phormiaceae is redefined to include only Dianella Lam. ex Juss., Rhuacophila Blume, Stypandra R. Br. and Excremis Willd. ex J. Schultes besides Phormium J. R. & G. Forster. It is thereby a homogeneous, predominantly southern hemisphere family.
TYPIFICATION OF GEASTRUM PERS.: PERS. AND ITS ORTHOGRAPHIC VARIANT GEASTER (GASTEROMYCETES)
Authors: Demoulin V.
Published: June 2019

The status of Geaster and Geastrum and their typification is examined at the light of modifications adopted in the ICBN in 1981. It is concluded Geaster is to be treated as an orthographic variant of Geastrum. This name is typified by the plate XLVI of Schmidel, that is the type of both G. multifidum Pers. (name to be used for designating the type) and its superfluous but sanctioned synonym G. coronatum Pers.: Pers. (name formerly used for the type designation).
ACROSYMPHYTACEAE, A NEW FAMILY IN THE ORDER GIGARTINALES SENSU LATO (RHODOPHYTA)
Authors: Lindstrom Sandra C.
Published: June 2019

The monogeneric family Acrosymphytaceae is proposed on the basis of unique female reproductive structures and post‐fertilization events. The family is included in the order Gigartinales sensu lato.
Index hepaticarum supplementum: 1986–1987
Authors: Engel John J.
Published: June 2019

Engel, J. J.: Index hepaticarum supplementum: 1986–1987. — Taxon 42: 373–391. 1993. ‐ISSN 0040–0262.

In this Supplement, there are references to 173 new taxa, 67 new combinations (including changes in rank), and 4 new names.
Lichen collections in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
Authors: Rogers R. W. , Guymer G. P.
Published: June 2019

Rogers, R. W. & Guymer, G. P.: Lichen collections in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. – Taxon 42: 719–721. 1993. – ISSN 0040‐0262.

The lichen collection from the University of Queensland Herbarium (BRIU) has been consolidated with that in the Queensland Herbarium (BRI). The collection numbers over 20,000 packages, and is rich in tropical and subtropical material. Types collected by Shirley and Bailey and described by Stirton, Müller Argoviensis, and Shirley are to be found in the collection.
U.S. National Arboretum Herbarium (NA)
Authors: Mazzeo P. M. , Dudley T. R.
Published: June 2019

Mazzeo, P. M. & Dudley, T. R.: U.S. National Arboretum Herbarium (NA). – Taxon 42: 727. 1993.‐ISSN 0040‐0262.

This article updates information on the U.S. National Arboretum Herbarium (NA).
Pilot feasibility study of in vivo intraoperative quantitative optical coherence tomography of human brain tissue during glioma resection
Authors: Almasian Mitra , Wilk Leah S. , Bloemen Paul R. , van Leeuwen Ton G , ter Laan Mark , Aalders Maurice C. G.
Published: June 2019

This study investigates the feasibility of in vivo quantitative optical coherence tomography (OCT) of human brain tissue during glioma resection surgery in six patients. High‐resolution detection of glioma tissue may allow precise and thorough tumor resection while preserving functional brain areas, and improving overall survival. In this study, in vivo 3D OCT datasets were collected during standard surgical procedure, before and after partial resection of the tumor, both from glioma tissue and normal parenchyma. Subsequently, the attenuation coefficient was extracted from the OCT datasets using an automated and validated algorithm. The cortical measurements yield a mean attenuation coefficient of 3.8 ± 1.2 mm−1 for normal brain tissue and 3.6 ± 1.1 mm−1 for glioma tissue. The subcortical measurements yield a mean attenuation coefficient of 5.7 ± 2.1 and 4.5 ± 1.6 mm−1 for, respectively, normal brain tissue and glioma. Although the results are inconclusive with respect to trends in attenuation coefficient between normal and glioma tissue due to the small sample size, the results are in the range of previously reported values. Therefore, we conclude that the proposed method for quantitative in vivo OCT of human brain tissue is feasible during glioma resection surgery.
Nerves in Bone: Evolving Concepts in Pain and Anabolism
Authors: Brazill Jennifer M , Beeve Alec T , Craft Clarissa S , Ivanusic Jason J , Scheller Erica L
Published: June 2019

The innervation of bone has been described for centuries, and our understanding of its function has rapidly evolved over the past several decades to encompass roles of subtype‐specific neurons in skeletal homeostasis. Current research has been largely focused on the distribution and function of specific neuronal populations within bone, as well as their cellular and molecular relationships with target cells in the bone microenvironment. This review provides a historical perspective of the field of skeletal neurobiology that highlights the diverse yet interconnected nature of nerves and skeletal health, particularly in the context of bone anabolism and pain. We explore what is known regarding the neuronal subtypes found in the skeleton, their distribution within bone compartments, and their central projection pathways. This neuroskeletal map then serves as a foundation for a comprehensive discussion of the neural control of skeletal development, homeostasis, repair, and bone pain. Active synthesis of this research recently led to the first biotherapeutic success story in the field. Specifically, the ongoing clinical trials of anti‐nerve growth factor therapeutics have been optimized to titrated doses that effectively alleviate pain while maintaining bone and joint health. Continued collaborations between neuroscientists and bone biologists are needed to build on this progress, leading to a more complete understanding of neural regulation of the skeleton and development of novel therapeutics. © 2019 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
NCF2, MYO1F, S1PR4, and FCN1 as potential noninvasive diagnostic biomarkers in patients with obstructive coronary artery: A weighted gene co‐expression network analysis
Authors: Mo Xian‐Gang , Liu Wei , Yang Yao , Imani Saber , Lu Shan , Dan Guorong , Nie Xuqiang , Yan Jun , Zhan Rixing , Li Xiaohui , Deng Youcai , Chen Bingbo , Cai Yue
Published: June 2019

This study aims to explore the predictive noninvasive biomarker for obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD). By using the data set GSE90074, weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA), and protein–protein interactive network, construction of differentially expressed genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was conducted to identify the most significant gene clusters associated with obstructive CAD. Univariate and multivariate stepwise logistic regression analyses and receiver operating characteristic analysis were used to predicate the diagnostic accuracy of biomarker candidates in the detection of obstructive CAD. Furthermore, functional prediction of candidate gene biomarkers was further confirmed in ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients or stable CAD patients by using the datasets of GSE62646 and GSE59867. We found that the blue module discriminated by WGCNA contained 13 hub‐genes that could be independent risk factors for obstructive CAD (P < .05). Among these 13 hub‐genes, a four‐gene signature including neutrophil cytosol factor 2 (NCF2, P = .025), myosin‐If (MYO1F, P = .001), sphingosine‐1‐phosphate receptor 4 (S1PR4, P = .015), and ficolin‐1 (FCN1, P = .012) alone or combined with two risk factors (male sex and hyperlipidemia) may represent potential diagnostic biomarkers in obstructive CAD. Furthermore, the messenger RNA levels of NCF2, MYO1F, S1PR4, and FCN1 were higher in STEMI patients than that in stable CAD patients, although S1PR4 showed no statistical difference (P > .05). This four‐gene signature could also act as a prognostic biomarker to discriminate STEMI patients from stable CAD patients. These findings suggest a four‐gene signature (NCF2, MYO1F, S1PR4, and FCN1) alone or combined with two risk factors (male sex and hyperlipidemia) as a promising prognostic biomarker in the diagnosis of STEMI. Well‐designed cohort studies should be implemented to warrant the diagnostic value of these genes in clinical purpose.