bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photocatalytic degradation of norfloxacin and its intermediate degradation products using nitrogen‐doped activated carbon–CuS nanocomposite assisted by visible irradiation
Authors: Nekouei Shahram , Nekouei Farzin
Published: July 2018

We have synthesized a nitrogen‐doped activated carbon (NAC) derived from oak using KOH and N2 thermal treatment at 400 °C as well as CuS nanoparticles. The NAC was decorated with the synthesized CuS to apply as a photocatalyst for degradation of norfloxacin (NOR). Before its application for photodegradation, the adsorbent/photocatalyst structural properties were investigated using X‐ray diffraction, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The photocatalytic degradation of NOR was successfully done under visible light using NAC–CuS. The results revealed that the investigated fluoroquinolone degraded very efficiently and pseudo‐first‐order kinetics was adopted for the photodegradation process. In addition, isothermal studies showed that the adsorption process in darkness followed the Langmuir model. The degradation characteristics of the NAC–CuS photocatalyst were studied for 120 min and 15 h under visible light for degradation of NOR, exhibiting a good efficiency for NOR removal. During 120 min of degradation, some intermediate degradation products that can be considered as secondary pollutants were produced. Then, to degrade these pollutants the radiation time was increased up to 15 h. The results displayed a perfect degradation of NOR and its secondary pollutants. The effective variables including pH, degradation time and photocatalyst dosage were optimized and studied in a multivariate method using Design Expert 7. Determination of photodegradation products was carried out using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. The results are of significance for estimating the environmental fate of NOR in aqueous media.
Enhanced photocatalytic activity of Ag3PO4 via Fullerene C60 modification
Authors: Song Limin , Yang Jinfeng , Chen Qian , Zhang Shujuan
Published: July 2018

Fullerene‐C60‐modified Ag3PO4 photocatalysts (C60/Ag3PO4) were prepared via facile chemical precipitation. The structures, morphology and photocatalytic properties of C60/Ag3PO4 were characterized by X‐ray diffractometry (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), photoluminescence (PL) spectrometry, and ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) absorption spectrometry. C60/Ag3PO4 exhibits considerably higher photocatalytic activity for degradation of Methyl Orange. The degradation conversion reached 93% after 8 min of light irradiation. Besides, the enhancement of photocatalytic activity could be attributed to the active species •OH, which can be ascribed to strong synergistic effect between Fullerene C60 and Ag3PO4.
Development of novel EST‐SSR markers for Phyllanthus emblica (Phyllanthaceae) and cross‐amplification in two related species
Authors: Liu Xiongfang , Ma Hong , Li Taiqiang , Li Zhenghong , Wan Youming , Liu Xiuxian , Fu Liyong
Published: July 2018

Premise of the Study

A novel set of EST‐SSR markers was developed for Phyllanthus emblica (Phyllanthaceae) to investigate the genetic structure and gene flow, identify novel genes of interest, and develop markers for assisted breeding.

Methods and Results

Based on the transcriptome data of P. emblica, 83 EST‐SSR primer pairs were designed; 52 primer pairs were successfully amplified, with 20 showing polymorphisms in 90 individuals from three populations of P. emblica. The number of alleles per locus varied from 11 to 44. The observed and expected levels of heterozygosity for the 20 loci ranged from 0.240 to 0.868 and 0.754 to 0.933, respectively. Cross‐species amplification was successful for all 20 loci in each of the two related species, P. reticulatus and Leptopus chinensis.

Conclusions

These markers will be valuable for studying the population genetics and for mining genes of P. emblica, and may be useful for studies of related species.
Residency and reproductive status of yellowfin tuna in a proposed large‐scale pelagic marine protected area
Authors: Richardson Andrew J. , Downes Katie J. , Nolan Emma T. , Brickle Paul , Brown Judith , Weber Nicola , Weber Sam B.
Published: July 2018

Since the year 2000, the designation of remote, large‐scale marine protected areas (LSMPAs) has closed over 15 × 106 km2 of ocean to commercial fishing. Yet, while these mega‐reserves have collectively made a major contribution toward meeting global targets for marine conservation, their effectiveness for the protection of highly mobile, pelagic species remains largely unknown.

This study reports on the spatial behavior and reproductive status of yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) inhabiting a proposed LSMPA around Ascension Island (tropical Atlantic), with the aim of evaluating the conservation benefits for this economically important species.

Using a combination of satellite archival tags and conventional mark–recapture it was shown that individual tuna can remain within Ascension Island waters for periods of between 100 and 200 days, with core residency areas (50% “utilization distributions”) generally extending <200 km from shore. The vast majority of activity occurred within 92.6 km (50 nmi) of the island and coincided with a “no‐take zone” established around the island in 2016. However, dispersive movements out of this zone were observed in some satellite‐tagged individuals, possibly marking the beginning of more extensive oceanic migrations.

Gonad staging of 342 individuals sampled over a 32 month period found no evidence of reproductively active (ripe) individuals, strongly suggesting that tuna foraging around Ascension Island migrate elsewhere to breed.

Study results provide further evidence of the importance of oceanic islands as residency areas for pelagic megafauna, helping to justify their inclusion within LSMPAs. In the absence of local recruitment, however, these individuals will remain susceptible to exploitation on spawning grounds located outside of reserves, ultimately limiting their effectiveness and thus calling for further research to identify and protect the areas where species are most vulnerable.
Ground‐penetrating radar and electrical resistivity tomography studies in the biblical Pisidian Antioch city, southwest Anatolia
Authors: Balkaya Çağlayan , Kalyoncuoğlu Ümit Yalçın , Özhanlı Mehmet , Merter Gözde , Çakmak Olcay , Talih Güven İ.
Published: July 2018

Pisidian Antioch was founded as a military base in the Hellenistic period around 300 bc. A consecutive archaeological structure, extending 55 m long, mainly includes two adjacent abscissas and a wall remain thought to be a watchtower. An integrated geophysical survey including ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) techniques was conducted to determine the existence of counterparts of this structure in a small‐scale area. GPR scans acquired via zigzag mode using 500 MHz antenna along 45 parallel lines were evaluated by a series of basic data processing steps. Considering the results obtained, two‐dimensional (2D) ERT data collected in a restricted area using Wenner‐alpha array along 41 parallel lines were inverted using 2D and three‐dimensional (3D) tomographic inversion schemes. On the basis of the findings obtained from various GPR and ERT imaging techniques, the existence of one of the abscissa, displaying dimensional parameters being in good accordance with those of ones still standing on the west side of the survey area was clearly revealed. Moreover, some regular anomalies, which can be attributed to the remains of the watchtower in question and various wall ruins, were successfully traced from the GPR depth slices. The existence of an antisymmetric geometry for the consecutive archaeological structure under investigation was also determined in the survey area. Combining all of that information, a possible 3D virtual image of the military headquarters was then created, and this pointed out a small square quadriburgia characteristic of the structure investigated. Thus, we can conclude that the integration of GPR and ERT and imaging techniques used in the evaluation were quite effective to provide useful prior information for the subterranean targets in the non‐excavated parts of the ancient city. An archaeological evaluation by trial trenching is therefore required to confirm the results of the archaeo‐geophysical survey in the investigation area.
Retrieving people: Identifying potential answerers in Community Question‐Answering
Authors: Le Long T. , Shah Chirag
Published: July 2018

Community Question‐Answering (CQA) sites have become popular venues where people can ask questions, seek information, or share knowledge with a user community. Although responses on CQA sites are obviously slower than information retrieved by a search engine, one of the most frustrating aspects of CQAs occurs when an asker's posted question does not receive a reasonable answer or remains unanswered. CQA sites could improve users' experience by identifying potential answerers and routing appropriate questions to them. In this paper, we predict the potential answerers based on question content and user profiles. Our approach builds user profiles based on past activity. When a new question is posted, the proposed method computes scores between the question and all user profiles to find the potential answerers. We conduct extensive experimental evaluations on two popular CQA sites ‐ Yahoo! Answers and Stack Overflow ‐ to show the effectiveness of our algorithm. The results show that our technique is able to predict a small group of 1000 users from which at least one user will answer the question with a probability higher than 50% in both CQA sites. Further analysis indicates that topic interest and activity level can improve the correctness of our approach.
Metabolic engineering of Escherichia coli for the enhanced production of l‐tyrosine
Authors: Kim Byoungjin , Binkley Robert , Kim Hyun Uk , Lee Sang Yup
Published: July 2018

Despite wide applications of l‐tyrosine in the market, microbial overproduction of l‐tyrosine has been a great challenge due to the complex gene regulations involved in its biosynthetic pathway. To this end, effects of knocking out tyrR on the l‐tyrosine production were further explored during the strain development. Also, blocking cellular uptake of l‐tyrosine by knocking out tyrosine transporters was examined with respect to l‐tyrosine production. Using feedback‐resistant aroG and tyrA genes (aroGfbr and tyrAfbr hereafter) as initial overexpression targets, which encode 3‐deoxy‐7‐phosphoheptulonate synthase and chorismate mutase or prephenate dehydrogenase, respectively, various combinations of genes were subsequently overexpressed in the Escherichia coli wild‐type and tyrR knockout strain, and their effects on the l‐tyrosine production were examined. Co‐overexpression of aroGfbr, aroL and tyrC, a gene from Zymomonas mobilis functionally similar to tyrAfbr, but insensitive to l‐tyrosine, led to the greatest l‐tyrosine production regardless of the strains and plasmid constructs examined in this study. The strain BTY2.13 overexpressing the abovementioned three genes together with the removal of the l‐tyrosine‐specific transporter (tyrP) produced 43.14 g/L of l‐tyrosine by fed‐batch fermentation using the exponential feeding followed by DO‐stat feeding method. This outcome suggested that the tyrR gene knockout was not mandatory for the l‐tyrosine overproduction, but the production performance of strains having tyrR appeared to be highly affected by vector systems and feeding methods. With an optimal vector system and a feeding method, tyrP knockout appeared to be more effective in enhancing the l‐tyrosine than tyrR knockout.
Whole‐brain atrophy assessed by proportional‐ versus registration‐based pipelines from 3TMRIin multiple sclerosis
Authors: Hemond Christopher C. , Chu Renxin , Tummala Subhash , Tauhid Shahamat , Healy Brian C. , Bakshi Rohit
Published: July 2018

Background and Purpose

Whole‐brain atrophy is a standard outcome measure in multiple sclerosis (MS) clinical trials as assessed by various software tools. The effect of processing method on the validity of such data obtained from high‐resolution 3TMRIis not known. We compared two commonly used methods of quantifying whole‐brain atrophy.

Methods

Three‐dimensional T1‐weighted andFLAIRimages were obtained at 3T inMS(n = 61) and normal control (NC,n = 30) groups. Whole‐brain atrophy was assessed by two automated pipelines: (a)SPM8 to derive brain parenchymal fraction (BPF, proportional‐based method); (b)SIENAXto derive normalized brain parenchymal volume (BPV, registration method). We assessed agreement betweenBPFandBPV, as well their relationship to Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score, timed 25‐foot walk (T25FW), cognition, and cerebral T2 (FLAIR) lesion volume (T2LV).

Results

Brain parenchymal fraction andBPVshowed only partial agreement (r = 0.73) in theMSgroup, andr = 0.28 inNC. Both methods showed atrophy inMSversusNC(BPFp < 0.01,BPVp < 0.05). WithinMSgroup comparisons,BPF(p < 0.05) but notBPV(p > 0.05) correlated withEDSSscore.BPV(p = 0.03) but notBPF(p = 0.08) correlated with T25FW. Both metrics correlated with T2LV(p < 0.05) and cognitive subscales.BPF(p < 0.05) but notBPV(p > 0.05) showed lower brain volume in cognitively impaired (n = 23) versus cognitively preserved (n = 38) patients. However, direct comparisons ofBPFandBPVsensitivities to atrophy and clinical correlations were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Whole‐brain atrophy metrics may not be interchangeable between proportional‐ and registration‐based automated pipelines from 3TMRIin patients withMS.
Actualizing Sustainable Development Goal‐11 in rural Nigeria: The role of Adult Literacy Education and Tourism Development
Authors: Agboeze Matthias U. , Nwankwo Elochukwu A.
Published: July 2018

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with 17 goal agenda are aimed at improving on the strengths of the Millennium Development Goals. Actualization of SDGs by 2030 has dominated debates among policy makers and developers. This study investigated the position of Adult Literacy Education and Tourism Development to the actualization of SDG‐11 in rural Nigeria by 2030. SDG‐11 focuses on ensuring sustainable cities and communities by 2030. Methodically, Yaro Yamane formula was used in downsizing the huge study population, to 399 rural adults. There was also a key informant interviews on 21 Adult Literacy Education facilitators and 18 Tourism Development experts who were conveniently and purposively sampled. Result of the study revealed that Adult Literacy Education and Tourism Development instruments among others will to a greater extent contribute to the actualization of SDG‐11 in rural Nigeria by 2030. The study has opened up another direction in sustainability studies by way of investigating various development instruments and their contributions towards actualizing the expected goals of SDGs by 2030 in many nations.
CD164 promotes tumor progression and predicts the poor prognosis of bladder cancer
Authors: Zhang Xiao‐Guang , Zhang Tong , Li Chang‐Ying , Zhang Ming‐Hao , Chen Fang‐Min
Published: July 2018

CD164 was found to play a role in many malignant diseases. But the roles of CD164 in human bladder cancer have not yet been studied. The object of our study was to investigate the functions of CD164 in urothelial bladder carcinoma. The immunohistochemistry (IHC) was performed to evaluate the associations between the expression level of CD164 and clinical‐pathological features of patients, and IHC was used to analyze the relationship between CD164 and CXCR4 in tumor tissues. Real‐time qPCR and Western blot were used to measure the expression of relevant genes. The roles of CD164 in tumor cells and tissues were investigated by in vitro and in vivo experiments. The results of immunohistochemistry found that CD164 was associated with clinical and pathological features of patients. High level of CD164 was related to the distant metastasis and vascular invasion of bladder cancer patients. In vitro, by silencing of CD164, the proliferation, migration, and invasion of tumor cells were inhibited significantly by regulating related proteins such as Ki67, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, matrix metalloproteinases‐2, and matrix metalloproteinases‐9. In vivo, knocking‐down of CD164 could reduce the growth and metastasis of tumors in mice. In addition, a co‐expression was found between CD164 and CXCR4 in tumor tissues. In conclusion, our study demonstrated that CD164 was associated with the poor clinical outcomes of BC patients. Silencing of CD164 could inhibit the progression of tumors in vivo and in vitro, which may become an effective target in the treatment of bladder cancer.
Blood Group O→A Transformation by Chemical Ligation of Erythrocytes
Authors: Ryzhov Ivan M. , Tuzikov Alexander B. , Perry Holly , Korchagina Elena Yu. , Bovin Nicolai V.
Published: July 2018

Agglutination of red blood cells (RBCs) remains the only practical method for routine use for ABH typing in clinical practice. However, exact mechanistic details of agglutination are not yet thoroughly studied. In this research, RBCs of blood group O were converted to blood group A through two approaches: by chemical ligation of the cells’ glycocalyx with synthetic blood group A tetrasaccharide, and by insertion of synthetic glycolipid carrying the same A antigen into the cells’ membranes. The O→A ligated RBCs and natural A RBCs showed comparable agglutination characteristics with antibodies. As expected, RBCs with inserted glycolipid showed lower agglutination scores. This approach could help cell biologists in site‐specific and cell‐friendly modification of glycocalyx by other ligands.
Direct Access to Medium‐Chain α,ω‐Dicarboxylic Acids by Using a Baeyer–Villiger Monooxygenase of Abnormal Regioselectivity
Authors: Yu Jia‐Mei , Liu Yuan‐Yang , Zheng Yu‐Cong , Li Hao , Zhang Xiao‐Yan , Zheng Gao‐Wei , Li Chun‐Xiu , Bai Yun‐Peng , Xu Jian‐He
Published: July 2018

Baeyer–Villiger monooxygenases (BVMOs) are versatile biocatalysts in organic synthesis that can generate esters or lactones by inserting a single oxygen atom adjacent to a carbonyl moiety. The regioselectivity of BVMOs is essential in determining the ratio of two regioisomers for converting asymmetric ketones. Herein, we report a novel BVMO from Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PaBVMO); this has been exploited for the direct synthesis of medium‐chain α,ω‐dicarboxylic acids through a Baeyer–Villiger oxidation–hydrolysis cascade. PaBVMO displayed the highest abnormal regioselectivity toward a variety of long‐chain aliphatic keto acids (C16–C20) to date, affording dicarboxylic monoesters with a ratio of up to 95 %. Upon chemical hydrolysis, α,ω‐dicarboxylic acids and fatty alcohols are readily obtained without further treatment; this significantly reduces the synthetic steps of α,ω‐dicarboxylic acids from renewable oils and fats.
Fluid shear stress improves morphology, cytoskeleton architecture, viability, and regulates cytokine expression in a time‐dependent manner in MLO‐Y4 cells
Authors: Yan Zedong , Wang Pan , Wu Junjie , Feng Xue , Cai Jing , Zhai Mingming , Li Juan , Liu Xiyu , Jiang Maogang , Luo Erping , Jing Da
Published: July 2018

The effects of load‐induced interstitial fluid shear stress (FSS) on instantaneous signaling response of osteocytes (e.g., calcium signaling) have been well documented. FSS can also initiate the release of many important messenger molecules of osteocytes (e.g., ATP and PGE2). However, the effects of FSS on cellular function and bone metabolism‐modulating cytokine expression of osteocytes have not been fully identified (some inconsistent/conflicting results have been documented). Herein, osteocyte‐like MLO‐Y4 cells were stimulated with 1 Pa, 2‐h FSS, and the effects of FSS on cellular morphology, cytoskeletal microstructure, biological activity, and gene and protein expression of important cytokines were investigated. SEM and cytoskeleton staining revealed that FSS induced well‐organized cytoskeleton and increased filopodia processes. The osteocytic viability was sustained and apoptosis was inhibited via flow cytometry. FSS promoted Wnt3a and β‐catenin gene and protein expression in 0‐, 3‐, and 6‐h (sample collection time post FSS) groups. The FSS‐stimulated cells in the 3‐h group exhibited more significant effects on the promotion of OCN and Cx43 and inhibition of DKK1 and SOST expression than the 0‐ and 6‐h groups. The 3‐h group with FSS stimulation also showed the most prominent effects on suppressing RANKL and RANKL/OPG gene and protein expression. This study revealed a direct regulatory effect of FSS on osteocytic morphology and apoptotic characteristics, and showed that osteocyte‐secreted bone metabolism‐modulating molecule expression was regulated by FSS in a time‐dependent manner. This study not only enriches our basic knowledge for understanding osteocytic mechanotransduction, but also provides important evidence for more scientific experimental design.
Comparison of devices used in carotid artery stenting: A vascular quality initiative analysis of commonly used carotid stents and embolic protection devices
Authors: Dhillon Ashwat S. , Li Sisi , Lewinger Juan Pablo , Shavelle David M. , Matthews Ray V. , Clavijo Leonardo C. , Weaver Fred A. , Garg Parveen
Published: July 2018

Background

Data regarding efficacy of various stent and embolic protection device (EPD) combinations to prevent stroke during carotid artery stenting (CAS) is limited. We compared post‐procedure inpatient neurologic outcomes across various carotid stent‐EPD platforms recorded in the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) registry.

Methods

We analyzed 13,786 consecutive CAS procedures in the VQI registry performed between January 1, 2005 and December 31, 2015. The most commonly used stent‐EPD combinations (n = 5407) were included in the analysis. Post‐procedure inpatient neurologic outcomes included (1) ipsilateral stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA) and (2) any stroke/TIA. Multivariate generalized estimating equation regression analysis was performed, adjusting for age, sex, tobacco use, coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, prior stroke/TIA, hypertension, history of carotid revascularization, and presence of a second ipsilateral stenosis >70%, to determine whether risk of outcomes differed according to device.

Results

Of 13,786 CAS procedures, Xact‐Emboshield (n = 2,438, 17.6%), Precise‐Angioguard (n = 1,480, 10.7%), Acculink‐Accunet (n = 829, 6.01%), and Acculink‐Emboshield (n = 660, 4.8%) were the most commonly used combinations, accounting for a total of 5,407 procedures. Inpatient event rates for ipsilateral stroke/TIA and any stroke/TIA were 1.9 and 2.7% in the Accunet‐Acculink, 3.0 and 3.2% in Acculink‐Emboshield, 3.2 and 4.1% in Precise‐Angioguard and 2.2 and 3.0% in Xact‐Emboshield. There was no evidence of difference in risk of ipsilateral stroke/TIA or any stroke/TIA across device combinations (P = 0.15 and P = 0.16, respectively).

Conclusion

CAS with current carotid stent‐EPD combinations is associated with low rates of inpatient stroke/TIA. There is no statistically significant difference in rates of inpatient stroke/TIA across device combinations.
Broken arrow: Successful retrieval of a dislodged coronary orbital atherectomy microtip
Authors: Hirai Taishi , Rosenberg Jonathan , Nathan Sandeep , Blair John E. A.
Published: July 2018

A 68‐year‐old female with a history of coronary artery disease and prior bypass surgery presented for staged percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to a calcified and angulated ostial left circumflex (LCX) artery lesion after PCI of the anastomosis of the left internal mammary artery ‐ to left anterior descending artery. Orbital atherectomy of the LCX was performed at a speed of 80,000 RPM with multiple passes, and was complicated by device microtip dislodgement and entrapment within the vessel. After advancing a “buddy” wire beyond the microtip, a tapered microcatheter was advanced over the ViperWire and into the edge of the broken microtip and torqued into the microtip with forward pressure using the 0.014 in ViperWire tip as a “backstop.” The guidewire, microcatheter, and microtip were then successfully removed as a unit and the intervention with stent placement was completed over the “buddy” wire. Scanning electron microscopy of the shaft revealed evidence of cyclic fatigue, indicating that the fracture occurred while spinning. The fracture when performing atherectomy in a model coronary artery with a radius of approximately 6 mm. This represents a first case of microtip dislodgement and entrapment during the use of a coronary orbital atherctomy device.short
Embolization of a complex coronary to pulmonary artery fistula using balloon assisted liquid embolic injection: A novel technique
Authors: Jagadeesan Bharathi D. , Liao Kenneth K. , Raveendran Ganesh
Published: July 2018

Complex Coronary artery to Pulmonary artery fistulas (CPFs) can be difficult to manage with embolization or ligation. An 88‐year‐old woman with exertional angina was found to have a complex precordial CPF, severe Mitral regurgitation, and Pulmonary Hypertension. CPF treatment was recommended prior to minimally invasive mitral valve replacement (to avoid postoperative myocardial ischemia from worsened steal). The CPF was supplied by multiple branches from the LAD and RCA, and formed a complex common varicosity with multiple drainage channels to the pulmonary artery. The CPF was treated by injecting a liquid embolic agent, Ethylene Vinyl Alcohol Copolymer (Onyx, Medtronic, MN), into two of the feeding arteries arising from the RCA through a Scepter C Dual lumen balloon micro catheter (Microvention, Aliso Viejo, CA. This resulted in complete obliteration of the fistula, and the patient subsequently underwent successful mitral valve replacement surgery.
The interplay between permanent pacemaker implantation and mortality in patients treated by transcatheter aortic valve implantation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ueshima Daisuke , Nai Fovino Luca , Mojoli Marco , Napodano Massimo , Fraccaro Chiara , Tarantini Giuseppe
Published: July 2018

Background

Previous implantation of a permanent pacemaker (PPM) is common among patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Moreover, onset of conduction disturbances needing new PPM implantation after TAVI is frequent. The interplay of pre‐existing and new‐PPM on mortality after TAVI remains controversial.

Methods

We performed a systematic review and study‐level meta‐analysis on the influence of PPM on mortality after TAVI. Patients were divided into 3 groups: pre‐existing PPM, new‐PPM (implantation within 30 days after TAVI) and no‐PPM (without PPM up to 30 days after TAVI). Outcomes were compared using pairwise and network meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of 28 studies including 40,016 subjects were eligible. Patients of the no‐PPM group had a lower mortality outcome compared to the rest of the study population (relative risk [RR] 0.76, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.68‐0.85, P < 0.0001) at median follow up of 16.3 months. In particular, patients with a pre‐existing PPM (RR 1.43, 95% CI 1.26‐1.62, P < 0.0001), but not those with a newly implanted PPM (RR 1.08, 95% CI 0.99‐1.18, P = 0.10), had a significantly higher mortality compared to patients of the no‐PPM group. Moreover, meta‐regression analysis showed that the transapical approach rate had a detrimental interaction with pre‐existing PPM on mortality (P = 0.03).

Conclusion

Compared to patients without PPM, those with a pre‐existing PPM before TAVI had higher mortality, in particular if treated by the transapical approach. New‐PPM implantation did not have a negative relation on mid‐term outcome.
A rare complication of pacemaker implantation
Authors: Bazoukis George , Panagiotakopoulos Victor , Tsamatsoulis Michalis , Saplaouras Athanasios , Konstantinidou Eleni , Tyrovolas Konstantinos , Kolokathis Angelos‐Michail , Sakellaropoulou Antigoni , Kitsoulis Panagiotis , Lakoumentas Ioannis , Charitos Christos , Sideris Antonios
Published: July 2018

Key Clinical Message

Lead perforation is a life‐threatening rare complication of pacemaker or defibrillator lead implantation. Clinical examination, electrocardiogram, device interrogation, echocardiography, chest x‐ray, and chest computed tomography scan can help in the diagnosis. Clinicians should be aware because early diagnosis and treatment are the cornerstones for achieving a better outcome.
Exaggerated arthropod assault: Eosinophilic dermatosis in a patient with small lymphocytic lymphoma
Authors: Lachowiez Curtis , White Kevin , Spurgeon Stephen
Published: July 2018

Key Clinical Message

Dermatologic reactions are commonly encountered in clinical practice. Providers must be aware of both the common and uncommon etiologies leading to these eruptions, particularly in patients with underlying malignancies. Establishing the appropriate etiology directs treatment of these conditions, which may be therapy directed at the malignancy itself.
Plasma cell mucositis of the larynx
Authors: Smith Jonathan G. F. , Smith Caroline P. , Leyden Peter J.
Published: July 2018

Key Clinical Message

Stridor is a symptom with a number of causes, usually identified through careful history taking and examination. When the cause is unclear, as in our case, consider investigations such as blood tests, biopsy, and imaging. We discuss a rare diagnosis of plasma cell mucositis, treated with some success by steroids.
Bilateral knee septic arthritis: Was it from sternal wound?
Authors: Chong Han Hong
Published: July 2018

Key Clinical Message

Polyarticular septic arthritis is a rare but life‐threatening condition and should not be underestimated. Clinicians should look for potential source of infection, either local spread or hematogenous distribution. However, this should not delay the main treatment for septic arthritis.
Non‐Noble Metal Oxides and their Application as Bifunctional Catalyst in Reversible Fuel Cells and Rechargeable Air Batteries
Authors: Dresp Sören , Strasser Peter
Published: July 2018

We report on a comprehensive structural and electrocatalytic reactivity study of a diverse set of non‐noble monometallic and bimetallic Fe, Mn, Co, and Ni ‐based oxide bifunctional ORR and OER electrocatalysts. To assess their catalytic activity and suitability for bifunctional operation in a consistent manner, we introduce and apply a standardized successive electrochemical testing protocol. Correlations are established between bifunctional activity and structure, by which the materials are classified. The large set of tested catalyst materials in this study enabled us to unravel entire reactivity trends across material groups and to make conclusions as to their suitability for reversible operating oxygen electrode applications. Our analysis reveals both beneficial synergistic effects of MnFe and MnCo based catalysts towards the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) as well as favorable trends of NiFe based materials towards the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). We visualize synoptic activity trends in so‐called “double overpotential” diagrams to elucidate easily the underlying activity trends. The highest bifunctional activity was found for a novel mixed spinel phase of Co and Mn and the highest OER performance was demonstrated for a mixed metal NiFe layered double hydroxide catalysts, from which practical guidance for the design of bifunctional fuel cell or metal‐air battery electrodes ensues.
Visualization of Structural Changes During Deactivation and Regeneration of FAU Zeolite for Catalytic Fast Pyrolysis of Lignin Using NMR and Electron Microscopy Techniques
Authors: Ma Zhiqiang , Ghosh Ashim , Asthana Navinchandra , van Bokhoven Jeroen
Published: July 2018

Catalytic fast pyrolysis of pretreated lignin (with hydrogen chloride solution) over FAU (15) zeolite uniquely yielded a high fraction of phenols, phenol alkoxys, and aromatic hydrocarbons. However, the zeolite underwent rapid deactivation. This paper reports the visualization of the structural changes during deactivation and regeneration of the zeolite is reported. The deactivated and regenerated zeolites were characterized by means of N2 physisorption, electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, magic angle spinning (MAS), and multiple quantum (MQ) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques. The results indicated that, during catalyst deactivation, there was excessive coke deposition in the zeolite pore structure resulted in both pore blockage and active site poisoning. The coke was removed by calcination of the spent catalyst in air at high temperature >550 °C which resulted in restoring the porosity and the activity to a large extent. However, the recovery of catalytic activity was incomplete attributing to irreversible structural changes in the catalyst during the deactivation and regeneration process. By fine‐tuning the reaction conditions and the regeneration of the catalyst, the catalyst performance after reactivation was optimized. Catalyst regeneration after mild coke deposition (that is, after a few catalytic cycles) and mild oxidation conditions (low temperature and slow‐heating ramp) are beneficial.
Single Nanoparticle Growth from Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis: From Monte Carlo Simulations to Nanoparticle Electrogeneration
Authors: Brasiliense Vitor , Noël Jean‐Marc , Wonner Kevin , Tschulik Kristina , Combellas Catherine , Kanoufi Frédéric
Published: July 2018

By scrutinizing the trajectory of individual nanoparticles (NPs) in solution, NP tracking analysis (NTA) allows sizing individual NPs and providing meaningful complementary information to single NP electrochemistry. Herein, a model is developed to extend NTA to allow dynamic NP sizing and to analyze the kinetics of growth of NPs in solution. Interpreting the NP trajectories as scaled Brownian motion, Monte Carlo simulations produce stochastic trajectories of growing NPs (under diffusion‐controlled growth). These trajectories are grounds for determining a strategy to estimate the growth parameters of individual NPs from the time evolution analysis of the mean square displacement (MSD) curves. In particular, we evaluate the accuracy and precision of the parameter estimates from MSD analysis. In addition, the strategy is illustrated to depict the homogeneous electrosynthesis of silver NPs from the oxidation of a sacrificial Ag ultramicroelectrode (UME) in Fe2+ solution.
Effects of Temperature on the Shape and Symmetry of Molecules and Solids
Authors: Carreras Abel , Bernuz Efrem , Marugan Xavier , Llunell Miquel , Alemany Pere
Published: July 2018

Despite its undeniable problems from a philosophical point of view, the concept of molecular structure, with attributes such as shape and symmetry, directly borrowed from the description of macroscopic objects, is nowadays central to most of the chemical sciences. Descriptions such as “the tetrahedral carbon atom” or “octahedral coordination complexes” are widely used as much in elementary textbooks as in the most up‐to‐date research articles. The definition of molecular shape is, however, not as simple as it might seem at first sight. Molecules don't behave as macroscopic objects do, and the arrangement of atoms within a molecule changes continuously due to the incessant motion of its constituent particles, nuclei, and electrons. How are molecular shape and symmetry affected by this thermal motion? In this Minireview, we introduce the language of continuous symmetry measures as a new tool to quantitatively describe the effects of temperature on molecular shape and symmetry, enriching in this way the set of molecular descriptors that might be used in the establishment of new empirical structure–property relations, of great interest in concomitant areas such as medicinal chemistry or materials science.
A Novel Family of Polyiodo‐Bromoantimonate(III) Complexes: Cation‐Driven Self‐Assembly of Photoconductive Metal‐Polyhalide Frameworks
Authors: Adonin Sergey A. , Udalova Liubov I. , Abramov Pavel A. , Novikov Alexander S. , Yushina Irina V. , Korolkov Ilya V. , Semitut Evgeniy Y. , Derzhavskaya Tatiyana A. , Stevenson Keith J. , Troshin Pavel A. , Sokolov Maxim N. , Fedin Vladimir P.
Published: July 2018

In the presence of different cations, reactions of [SbBr6]3− and I2 result in a new family of diverse supramolecular 1D polyiodide‐bromoantimonate networks. The coordination number of Sb, as well as geometry of assembling {Ix}n− polyhalide units, can vary, resulting in unprecedented structural types. The nature of I⋅⋅⋅Br interactions was studied by DFT calculations; estimated energy values are 1.6–6.9 kcal mol−1. Some of the compounds showed strong photoconductivity in thin films, suggesting multiple feasible applications in optoelectronics and solar energy conversion.
Bifunctional Separator Coated with Hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene/Reduced Graphene Oxide for Enhanced Performance of Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Zheng Yanping , Fan Honghong , Li Huanhuan , Fan Chaoying , Yuan Haiyan , Yang Zhifang , Huang Kecheng , Li Wenliang , Zhang Jingping
Published: July 2018

Although extensive research has been performed in the field of Li−S rechargeable batteries, commercial applications are still hindered by the dissolution of the reaction intermediates of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs). Through the combination of experimental and theoretical results, a bifunctional separator has been designed by coating hexachlorocyclotriphosphazene (HCCP)‐decorated reduced graphene oxide (rGO), which provides effective anchor sites for immobilizing the LiPSs. LiPSs can be adsorbed on the HCCP/rGO surface with moderate binding strength, and their structures and the electrical conductivity of HCCP/rGO are well maintained. The synergetic effect of the effective barrier and good electrical conductivity within the HCCP/rGO sheets efficiently anchors LiPSs and achieves enhanced electrochemical performance. More importantly, different substituents can be used to tune the immobilization of LiPSs by HCCP derivatives. Therefore, it is expected that HCCP and its derivatives can be utilized as a promising anchoring material for high‐performance Li−S batteries.
Investigating the Low Temperature Formation of CuII‐(N,O) Species on Cu‐CHA Zeolites for the Selective Catalytic Reduction of NOx
Authors: Negri Chiara , Hammershøi Peter S. , Janssens Ton V. W. , Beato Pablo , Berlier Gloria , Bordiga Silvia
Published: July 2018

In this work, we show the potentiality of operando FTIR spectroscopy to follow the formation of CuII‐(N,O) species on Cu exchanged chabazite zeolites (Cu‐CHA), active for the selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3 (NH3‐SCR). In particular, we investigated the reaction of NO and O2 at low temperature (200 and 50 °C) on a series of Cu‐CHA zeolites with different composition (Si/Al and Cu/Al ratios), to investigate the nature of the formed copper nitrates, which have been proposed to be key intermediates in the oxidation part of the SCR cycle. Our results show that chelating bidentate nitrates are the main structures formed at 200 °C. At lower temperature a mixture of chelating and monodentate nitrates are formed, together with the nitrosonium ion NO+, whose amount was found to be proportional to the zeolite Brønsted site concentration. Nitrates were found to mainly form with CuII ions stabilized by one negative framework charge (Z), Z‐[Cu(OH]I or Z‐[Cu(O2]I, without involvement of Z2‐CuII ones. This evidence, together with the absence of bridging nitrates in samples with high probability for Cu–Cu pairs, indicate that the nitrate ligands are not able to mobilize copper ions, at variance with what recently reported for NH3. Finally, water was found to replace preformed chelating copper nitrates and deplete NO+ (though with different kinetics) at both temperatures, while favouring the presence of monodentate ones.
Bridge‐Caging Strategy in Phosphorus‐Substituted Rhodamine for Modular Development of Near‐Infrared Fluorescent Probes
Authors: Chai Xiaoyun , Xiao Jin , Li Min , Wang Chaoming , An Haiyan , Li Chen , Li Yuntao , Zhang Dazhi , Cui Xiaoyan , Wang Ting
Published: July 2018

Replacement of the bridging oxygen atom in rhodamine with phosphorus is one of the most efficient ways for bright near‐infrared (NIR) fluorophores with wavelengths over 700 nm. However, the organophosphorus bridge is more versatile than just being a spectrum tuner, it is also a profound solubility booster and photostability enhancer, as proved by a series of phosphorus‐substituted rhodamines (PRBs). A unique bridge‐caging strategy for efficiently manipulating fluorescence has further been innovated in example PRB2. Consistent with theoretical calculations, the formation of organophosphinate by a caging group as a fluorescence‐controller locks the spirolactone into a colorless and nonfluorescent form, whereas decaging, a process induced by a specific stimulus, results in a ring‐opened form, which yields strong fluorescence. The bridge‐caging strategy is feasible for the modular development of NIR probes. Efficient in vivo imaging of photoillumination, hydrogen peroxide, and enzyme have been achieved on the PRB2 scaffold as a photoactivatable fluorophore, PRB2‐hν; fluorescent indicator, PRB2‐H2O2; and fluorogenic enzyme substrate, PRB2‐NTR, respectively.
Fluorescent Sulphur‐ and Nitrogen‐Containing Porous Polymers with Tuneable Donor–Acceptor Domains for Light‐Driven Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Schwarz Dana , Acharja Amitava , Ichangi Arun , Lyu Pengbo , Opanasenko Maksym V. , Goßler Fabian R. , König Tobias A. F. , Čejka Jiří , Nachtigall Petr , Thomas Arne , Bojdys Michael J.
Published: July 2018

Light‐driven water splitting is a potential source of abundant, clean energy, yet efficient charge‐separation and size and position of the bandgap in heterogeneous photocatalysts are challenging to predict and design. Synthetic attempts to tune the bandgap of polymer photocatalysts classically rely on variations of the sizes of their π‐conjugated domains. However, only donor–acceptor dyads hold the key to prevent undesired electron‐hole recombination within the catalyst via efficient charge separation. Building on our previous success in incorporating electron‐donating, sulphur‐containing linkers and electron‐withdrawing, triazine (C3N3) units into porous polymers, we report the synthesis of six visible‐light‐active, triazine‐based polymers with a high heteroatom‐content of S and N that photocatalytically generate H2 from water: up to 915 μmol h−1 g−1 with Pt co‐catalyst, and—as one of the highest to‐date reported values −200 μmol h−1 g−1 without. The highly modular Sonogashira–Hagihara cross‐coupling reaction we employ, enables a systematic study of mixed (S, N, C) and (N, C)‐only polymer systems. Our results highlight that photocatalytic water‐splitting does not only require an ideal optical bandgap of ≈2.2 eV, but that the choice of donor–acceptor motifs profoundly impacts charge‐transfer and catalytic activity.
[3,3]‐Sigmatropic Rearrangement of Cyclopropenylcarbinyl Cyanates: Access to Alkylidene(aminocyclopropane) Derivatives
Authors: Ernouf Guillaume , Brayer Jean‐Louis , Folléas Benoît , Demoute Jean‐Pierre , Meyer Christophe , Cossy Janine
Published: July 2018

Cyclopropenylcarbinyl cyanates, generated in situ by dehydration of the corresponding carbamates, underwent an efficient and stereoselective [3,3]‐sigmatropic rearrangement leading to the corresponding alkylidene(isocyanatocyclopropanes), which could be converted into various alkylidene(aminocyclopropane) derivatives in a one‐pot manner. This transformation complements the repertoire of sigmatropic rearrangements involving cyclopropenylcarbinol derivatives and in particular, the previously reported Overman rearrangement of cyclopropenylcarbinyl trichloroacetimidates.
Commercially Relevant Orthogonal Multi‐Component Supramolecular Hydrogels for Programmed Cell Growth
Authors: Vieira Vânia M. P. , Lima Ana C. , de Jong Menno , Smith David K.
Published: July 2018

This study reports the ability of synthetically simple, commercially viable sugar‐derived 1,3:2,4‐dibenzylidenesorbitol‐4′,4“‐diacylhydrazide (DBS‐CONHNH2) to support cell growth. Simple mixing and orthogonal self‐sorting can formulate heparin, agarose, and heparin‐binding micelles into these gels—easily incorporating additional function. Interestingly, the components used in the gel formulation, direct the ability of cells to grow, meaning the chemical programming of these multi‐component gels is directly translated to the biological systems in contact with them. This simple approach has potential for future development in regenerative medicine.
On determination of interwell connectivity under immiscible gas injection process: Modified capacitance‐resistance model
Authors: Yousefi Seyed Hamidreza , Rashidi Fariborz , Sharifi Mohammad , Soroush Mohammad
Published: July 2018

Interwell connectivity is an important parameter in reservoir management and optimization during water/gas injection. As an analytical approach, the capacitance‐resistance model (CRM) is a rapid tool that only needs some common and available data for field performance prediction. The non‐linear signal processing technique is used with the CRM to determine reservoir continuity between production and injection wells. Current CRMs are applicable in water flooding systems. In this study, a modified capacitance‐resistance model (M‐CRM) for interwell connectivity calculation in immiscible gas flooding projects is developed based on the mass balance equation. Slightly compressible flow is one of the main assumptions in CRM development while gas is compressible and the gas property variation with pressure should be scrutinized in the equations. Therefore, new equations need gas PVT properties to consider the effect of gas compressibility. Moreover, the productivity equation for oil and gas production should be revised. The constructed model that considers mass balance and the productivity equation is applied in two synthetic models and one real sector reservoir model. The genetic algorithm, as an optimization tool for solving the new model, is used and streamline simulation is selected as a validation tool for interwell connectivity parameter calculation. Based on the streamline results, it was observed that a M‐CRM is able to predict the reservoir behaviour better than a common CRM for pre/post breakthrough conditions in gas injection scenarios. Also, an analysis is performed for different parameters that affect the new model in immiscible gas flooding. Results show that modification on the mass balance equation has a greater influence than the productivity equation.