bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robotic PCI: Evolving from novel toward non‐inferior
Authors: Cheney Amy E. , Dean Larry S.
Published: March 2019

Key Points

Robotic‐assisted PCI appears to be safe and feasible in both simple and complex lesions.

In this small cohort study, analysis of manual versus robotic PCI suggests comparable clinical outcomes.

Further adequately powered, randomized, multicenter studies are needed to definitively evaluate outcomes in manual versus robotic‐assisted PCI.
Removal of Dibenzothiophene from Diesels by Extraction and Catalytic Oxidation with Acetamide‐Based Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Hao Dongmei , Hao Lingwan , Deng Changliang , Ren Wanzhong , Guo Congcong , Lü Hongying
Published: March 2019

A series of acetamide‐based deep eutectic solvents (DESs) with different proportions were prepared. Extraction and catalytic oxidation desulfurization (ECODS) of the acetamide‐based DESs were investigated and the process was optimized. Such DESs with a molar ratio of acetamide and p‐TsOH of 1/3 (C2H5NO/3p‐TsOH) exhibits such a remarkable catalytic activity that the dibenzothiophene (DBT) removal could reach 100 % under optimized conditions. C2H5NO/3p‐TsOH was used for the oxidative desulfurization of actual commercial diesel. The sulfur removal of diesel achieved up to 98 %. C2H5NO/3p‐TsOH could be recycled six times and the desulfurization activity was slightly decreased. Evaluation of the mechanism indicated that oxidative desulfurization (ODS) was realized via dual activation of acetamide‐based DESs. A novel and effective way for deep desulfurization of diesel is provided.
Estimation of kLa Values in Bench‐Scale Stirred Tank Reactors with Self‐Inducing Impeller by Multiphase CFD Simulations
Authors: Santos-Moreau Vania , Lopes José Carlos B. , Fonte Cláudio P.
Published: March 2019

A multiphase computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation methodology is developed and proposed for the estimation of the spatial distribution of kLa values in a bench‐scale reactor equipped with a self‐inducing impeller. The importance of estimating an apparent drag coefficient, which considers the effect of turbulence on the gas bubble rising velocity, is also tackled by applying different correlations available in literature, namely, Brucato, modified Brucato, and Pinelli correlations. The spatial distribution of kLa values in the agitated vessel is found from the CFD results using Danckwert's surface renewal model. An analysis of the gas volume fraction distribution obtained from the simulations is performed in order to choose the most suitable drag model. The modified Brucato correction correlation for the drag force exhibits the best agreement with experimental data.
Engineering Ternary Pyrite‐Type CoPS Nanosheets with an Ultrathin Porous Structure for Efficient Electrocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Liu Ping , Lin Yunxiang , Li Jing , Wang Zhi , Nauman Ali Rai , Song Li , Xiang Bin , Lu Yalin
Published: March 2019

For electrochemical water splitting, the development of low‐cost, efficient, and robust electrocatalysts for both the oxygen evolution reaction and hydrogen evolution reaction remains challenging. Herein, we report stoichiometric ternary‐phase CoPS with a two‐dimensional ultrathin porous nanosheet structure as an efficient bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting. Owing to the stable stoichiometric ternary phase, abundant octahedral Co3+ is observed in CoPS, serving as active sites to boost electrocatalytic activities. With the introduction of the ultrathin porous nanosheet structure, more active sites are exposed to enhance the electrochemical performance. Therefore, the samples display remarkable oxygen evolution activity with a low overpotential of 316 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 50.2 mV dec−1. Combined with their highly efficient hydrogen evolution activity, CoPS ultrathin porous nanosheets are demonstrated to have extraordinary activities for overall water splitting, with a cell voltage of 1.57 V to reach 10 mA cm−2 current density. This work not only provides a bifunctional catalyst with outstanding performance, but also offers a facile route for improving electrocatalytic activity by synergistic morphology design and electronic modulation.
Phosphorescence at Low Temperature by External Heavy‐Atom Effect in Zinc(II) Clusters
Authors: Kobayashi Fumiya , Ohtani Ryo , Teraoka Saki , Yoshida Masaki , Kato Masako , Zhang Yingjie , Lindoy Leonard F. , Hayami Shinya , Nakamura Masaaki
Published: March 2019

Luminescent ZnII clusters [Zn4L4(μ3‐OMe)2X2] (X=SCN (1), Cl (2), Br (3)) and [Zn7L6(μ3‐OMe)2(μ3‐OH)4]Y2 (Y=I− (4), ClO4− (5)), HL=methyl‐3‐methoxysalicylate, exhibiting blue fluorescence at room temperature (λmax=416≈429 nm, Φem=0.09–0.36) have been synthesised and investigated in detail. In one case the external heavy‐atom effect (EHE) arising the presence of iodide counter anions yielded phosphorescence with a long emission lifetime (λmax=520 nm, τ=95.3 ms) at 77 K. Single‐crystal X‐ray structural analysis and time‐dependent density‐functional theory (TD‐DFT) calculations revealed that their emission origin was attributed to the fluorescence from the singlet ligand‐centred (1LC) excited state, and the phosphorescence observed in 4 was caused by the EHE of counter anions having strong CH−I interactions.
Direct Metal‐ and Reagent‐Free Sulfonylation of Phenols with Sodium Sulfinates by Electrosynthesis
Authors: Nikl Joachim , Lips Sebastian , Schollmeyer Dieter , Franke Robert , Waldvogel Siegfried R.
Published: March 2019

A novel electrochemical strategy for the synthesis of aryl sulfones by direct sulfonylation of phenols with sodium sulfinates has been developed. The C,S‐coupling products are of particular interest for chemical synthesis, material sciences and pharmaceutical sciences. By using this metal‐ and reagent‐free electrochemical method, aryl and diaryl sulfones can be obtained directly in good yields. The established one‐step protocol is easy to perform, scalable, inherently safe, and enables a broad scope, which is not limited by quinoid‐forming substrates.
Statistische Analyse des lokalen Wassertransportes einer Polymer‐Elektrolyt‐Brennstoffzelle
Authors: Froning Dieter , Yu Junliang , Reimer Uwe , Lehnert Werner
Published: March 2019

Der Wassertransport in der Gasdiffusionsschicht (gas diffusion layer, GDL) einer Polymer‐Elektrolyt‐Brennstoffzelle (PEFC) wurde mithilfe der Lattice‐Boltzmann‐Methode simuliert. Mit einem stochastischen Geometriemodell wurde ein Ensemble von Mikrostrukturen generiert, die alle stochastisch äquivalent zur realen Struktur einer GDL sind. Die raue Oberfläche der GDL bildet das Interface zwischen GDL und Luftkanal einer PEFC. Die aus der GDL austretenden Wassertropfen wurden hinsichtlich ihrer Kontaktwinkel analysiert und kurz der dynamische Verlauf betrachtet.
Einfluss mikrostrukturierter statischer Mischer auf den Gas/Flüssig‐Stofftransport in einem engen Rechteckkanal
Authors: Sengen Anne‐Laura , Herbstritt Frank , Heck Joachim , Grünewald Marcus
Published: March 2019

Experimentelle Ergebnisse des volumetrischen Stoffübergangskoeffizienten kLaPh in einem mit statischen Mischern versehenen Rechteckkanal von wenigen Millimetern Höhe (Miprowa®) werden vorgestellt. Als geeignete Methode wurde die physikalische Absorption von CO2 in H2O gewählt. Die Ergebnisse umfassen u. a. eine Gas/Flüssig‐Strömungskarte und erste systematische Messungen des kLaPh‐Wertes in Abhängigkeit von verschiedenen Prozesseinstellungen wie Gas‐ und Flüssigkeitsvolumenströme und Gasgehalt. Ein erster Vergleich des Miprowa® mit etablierten Gas/Flüssig‐Kontaktapparaten wie Rührkessel und Blasensäule wird vorgenommen.
Experimental Investigation of Ethene Decomposition by Video – Determination of Physical Data for Simulation Model
Authors: Hilfer Anton , Degenkolb Jonas , Busch Markus
Published: March 2019

In this work, the decomposition reaction of ethylene is investigated in a high‐pressure view cell. Thus, for the first time, it is possible to precisely determine the velocity and structure of the flame front under high pressure. On one hand, the experiments should provide a better understanding of the decomposition process in a time and spatially resolved manner but also about the chemistry‐turbulence interaction. On the other hand, the experiments serve as a basis and validation for the development of a numerical simulation model.
Telephone versus in‐person colorectal cancer risk and screening intervention for first‐degree relatives: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Esplen Mary Jane , Harrington Sarah , Leung Yvonne W. , Aronson Melyssa , Rothenmund Heidi , Semotiuk Kara , Wong Jiahui , Gallinger Steven , Dicks Elizabeth , McLaughlin John
Published: March 2019

Background

Having a first‐degree relative (FDR) with colorectal cancer (CRC) is a significant risk factor for CRC. Counseling for FDRs regarding CRC risk factors and personalized risk is important to improve knowledge and screening compliance.

Methods

A 3‐arm randomized controlled trial compared tailored in‐person and telephone CRC counseling interventions with controls among FDRs who were not mutation carriers for known hereditary cancer syndromes, but who were considered to be at an increased risk based on family history. It was hypothesized that both telephone and in‐person approaches would increase CRC knowledge, screening adherence, perceived risk accuracy, and psychosocial functioning compared with controls. The authors anticipated greater satisfaction with the in‐person approach. CRC knowledge, risk perception, psychosocial functioning, and intention to screen were assessed at baseline and at 2‐week and 2‐month follow‐ups (primary endpoint).

Results

A total of 278 FDRs (mean age, 47.4 years, standard deviation, 11.38 years) participated. At baseline, participants reported low to moderate CRC knowledge and overestimations of risk. Screening adherence was 73.7%. At 2 months, participants in the in‐person arm and telephone arm demonstrated improvements in knowledge and perceived risk and were not found to be statistically different from each other. However, when comparing each intervention with controls, knowledge in the in‐person arm was found to be statistically significantly higher, but the difference between the telephone and control arms was not. Cancer‐related stress reduced over time in all groups. Intervention benefits were maintained at 1 year. Baseline screening intent/adherence were high, and therefore did not reach statistically significant improvement.

Conclusions

Tailored in‐person or telephone formats for providing CRC risk counseling, incorporating behavioral interventions, appear to improve knowledge and risk perceptions, with high client satisfaction.
Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential–associated mutations and risk of comorbidities in patients with myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Naqvi Kiran , Sasaki Koji , Montalban‐Bravo Guillermo , Alfonso Pierola Ana , Yilmaz Musa , Short Nicholas , Assi Rita , Jabbour Elias , Ravandi Farhad , Kadia Tapan , Pierce Sherry , Takahashi Koichi , Nogueras Gonzalez Graciela , Kanagal‐Shamanna Rashmi , Patel Keyur , Soltysiak Kelly A. , Kantarjian Hagop M. , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo
Published: March 2019

Background

Clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP)‐associated mutations increase the risk of atherosclerotic heart disease. Comorbidities significantly impact the prognosis of patients with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). The objective of this study was to determine the association and impact of CHIP mutations with comorbidities in patients with MDS.

Methods

This retrospective analysis of 566 consecutive patients with MDS was conducted at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center from August 2013 to December 2016. The 27‐item Adult Comorbidity Evaluation (ACE‐27) scale was used to assess the severity of comorbid conditions. Next‐generation sequencing was used to detect the presence of CHIP mutations in bone marrow aspirates. Spearman correlations and logistic regression analyses were used to determine the association between mutations and comorbidities.

Results

Mutations in the genes tet methylcytosine dioxygenase 2 (TET2), ASXL transcriptional regulator 1 (ASXL1), DNA methyltransferase 3α (DNMT3A), Janus kinase 2 (JAK2), and tumor protein 53 (TP53) were noted in 20%, 18%, 9%, 2%, and 21% of patients, respectively. Patients with DNMT3A and JAK2 mutations had higher likelihoods of a prior history of myocardial infarction (odds ratio, 2.62; P = .03) and veno‐occlusive disease (odds ratio, 6.48; P = .02), respectively. TP53 mutation was associated with a prior history of malignancy. Patients with TET2 mutation had no association with any comorbidity. A prognostic model including the revised International Prognostic Scoring System classification, the ACE‐27 score, and TP53 mutation status (the I‐RAT model) predicted median overall survival.

Conclusions

In patients with MDS, the presence of CHIP–associated mutations is associated with comorbidities. DNMT3A and JAK2 mutations were associated with higher likelihoods of prior myocardial infarction and thrombotic events. There was no association between comorbidity and TET2 mutation. Incorporating the revised International Prognostic Scoring System classification with the ACE‐27 and TP53 mutation status improved outcome prediction in patients with MDS.
Absence of axonal sprouting following unilateral lesion in 125‐day‐old rat supraoptic nucleus may be due to age‐dependent decrease in protein levels of ciliary neurotrophic factor receptor alpha
Authors: Askvig Jason M. , Watt John A.
Published: March 2019

Within the supraoptic nucleus (SON) of a 35‐day‐old rat, we previously demonstrated a collateral sprouting response that reinnervates the partially denervated neural lobe (NL) after unilateral lesion of the hypothalamo‐neurohypophysial tract. Others have shown a decreased propensity for axonal sprouting in an aged brain; therefore, to see if the SON exhibits a decreased propensity for axonal sprouting as the animal ages, we performed a unilateral lesion in the 125‐day‐old rat SON. Ultrastructural analysis of axon profiles in the NL of the 125‐day‐old rat demonstrated an absence of axonal sprouting following injury. We previously demonstrated that ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF) promotes process outgrowth from injured magnocellular neuron axons in vitro. Thus, we hypothesized that the lack of axonal sprouting in the 125‐day‐old rat SON may be due to a reduction in CNTF or the CNTF receptor components. To this point, we found that as the rat ages there is significantly less CNTF receptor alpha (CNTFRα) protein in the uninjured, 125‐day‐old rat compared to the uninjured, 35‐day‐old rat. We also observed that protein levels of CNTF and the CNTF receptor components were increased in the SON and NL following injury in the 35‐day‐old rat, but there was no difference in the protein levels in the 125‐day‐old rat. Altogether, the results presented herein demonstrate that the plasticity within the SON is highly dependent on the age of the rat, and that a decrease in CNTFRα protein levels in the 125‐day‐old rat may contribute to the loss of axonal sprouting following axotomy.
ROCK inhibition improves axonal regeneration in a preclinical model of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Joshi Abhijeet R. , Muke Ines , Bobylev Ilja , Lehmann Helmar C.
Published: March 2019

Alteration of the RhoA/ROCK (Rho kinase) pathway has been shown to be neuroprotective in SOD1G93A mice, the most commonly used animal model of ALS. Since previous studies indicate that, apart from neuroprotection, ROCK inhibitor Y‐27632 can also accelerate regeneration of motor axons, we here assessed the regenerative capability of axons in SOD1G93A mice with and without treatment with Y‐27632. Regeneration of axons was examined after sciatic nerve crush in pre‐ and symptomatic SOD1G93A mice. Proregenerative effects of Y‐27632 were studied during the disease course in the SOD1G93A mouse model. In symptomatic SOD1G93A mice, axonal regeneration was markedly reduced compared to presymptomatic SOD1G93A mice and wild types. Treatment with Y‐27632 improved functional and morphological measures of motor axons after sciatic crush in all tested conditions. Y‐27632 treatment did not increase the lifespan of symptomatic SOD1G93A mice, but did improve axonal (re)innervation of neuromuscular junctions. Our study provides proof of concept that axonal regeneration of motor neurons harboring SOD1G93A is impaired, but amenable for pharmacological interventions aiming to accelerate axonal regeneration. Given the lack of treatments for ALS, approaches to improve axonal regeneration, including by inhibiting ROCK, should be further explored.
Piecewise parabolic method for propagation of shear shock waves in relaxing soft solids: One‐dimensional case
Authors: Tripathi Bharat B. , Espíndola David , Pinton Gianmarco F.
Published: March 2019

Shear shock waves can be generated spontaneously deep within the brain during a traumatic injury. This recently observed behavior could be a primary mechanism for the generation of traumatic brain injuries. However, shear shock wave physics and its numerical modeling are relatively unstudied. Existing numerical solvers used in biomechanics are not designed for the extremely large Mach numbers (greater than 1) observed in the brain. Furthermore, soft solids, such as the brain, have a complex nonclassical viscoleastic response, which must be accurately modeled to capture the nonlinear wave behavior. Here, we develop a 1D inviscid velocity‐stress–like system to model the propagation of shear shock waves in a homogeneous medium. Then a generalized Maxwell body is used to model a relaxing medium that can describe experimentally determined attenuation laws. Finally, the resulting system is solved numerically with the piecewise parabolic method, a high‐order finite volume method. The nonlinear and the relaxing components of this method are validated with theoretical predictions. Comparisons between numerical solutions obtained for the proposed model and the experiments of plane shear shock wave propagation based on high frame‐rate ultrasound imaging and tracking are shown to be in excellent agreement.
Spiraling Asymptotic Profiles of Competition‐Diffusion Systems
Authors: Terracini Susanna , Verzini Gianmaria , Zilio Alessandro
Published: March 2019

This paper describes the structure of the nodal set of segregation profiles arising in the singular limit of planar, stationary, reaction‐diffusion systems with strongly competitive interactions of Lotka‐Volterra type, when the matrix of the interspecific competition coefficients is asymmetric and the competition parameter tends to infinity. Unlike the symmetric case, when it is known that the nodal set consists of a locally finite collection of curves meeting with equal angles at a locally finite number of singular points, the asymmetric case shows the emergence of spiraling nodal curves, still meeting at locally isolated points with finite vanishing order. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In Vivo Electroporation and Time‐Lapse Imaging of the Rostral Migratory Stream in Developing Rodent Brain
Authors: Huang Zhihui , Wang Ying
Published: March 2019

Interneurons in the olfactory bulb are generated from neuronal precursor cells migrating from the anterior subventricular zone (SVZa) throughout the embryonic and postnatal life of mammals. This article describes basic methods for in vivo electroporation to label SVZa cells of both embryonic and postnatal rats. In addition, it describes three methods for tracing SVZa progenitors and following their migration pathway and differentiation, including immunohistochemistry, time‐lapse live imaging in slice culture, and time‐lapse imaging following transplantation in slice culture. These methods may be applied to all strains of rats and mice, including reporter mice. They may also be combined with methods such as BrdU labeling, tamoxifen injection, and electrophysiology, allowing one to observe proliferation or control gene expression at specific times and for specific neuronal functions. With time‐lapse live imaging, details of labeled cells can be studied, including morphology, motility pattern, differentiation, and crosstalk between cells. © 2019 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
SEAL2: An SDN‐enabled all‐Layer2 packet forwarding network architecture for multitenant datacenter networks
Authors: Yeh Chun‐Chao , Qiu Jun‐Wei , Chang Shi‐Jia
Published: March 2019

This paper presents the design and development of a new network virtualization scheme to support multitenant datacenter networking (MT‐DCN) based on software‐defined networking (SDN) technologies. Effective multitenancy supports are essential and challenging for datacenter networking designs. In this study, we propose a new network virtualization architecture framework for efficient packet forwarding in MT‐DCN. Traditionally, an internet host uses IP addresses for both host identification and location information, which causes mobile IP problems whenever the host is moved from one IP subnet to another. Unfortunately, virtual machine (VM) mobility is inevitable for cloud computing in datacenters for reasons such as server consolidation and network traffic flow optimization. To solve the problems, we decouple VM identification and location information with two independent values neither by IP addresses. We redefine the semantics of Ethernet MAC address to embed tenant ID information to the MAC address field without violating its original functionality. We also replace traditional Layer2/Layer3 two‐stage routing schemes (MAC/IP) with an all‐Layer2 packet forwarding mechanism that combines MAC addresses (for VM identification and forwarding in local server groups under an edge switch gateway) and multiprotocol label switching (MPLS) labels (for packet transportation between edge switch gateways across the core label switching network connecting all the edge gateways). To accommodate conventional IP packet architecture in a multitenant environment, SDN (OpenFlow) technology is used to handle all this complex network traffics. We verified the design concepts by a simple system prototype in which all the major system components were implemented. Based on the prototype system, we evaluated packet forwarding efficiency under the proposed network architecture and compared it with conventional IP subnet routing approaches. We also evaluated the incurred packet processing overhead caused by each of the packet routing components.
Established and empirically derived landbird focal species lists correlate with vegetation and avian metrics
Authors: Stephens Jaime L. , Dinger Eric C. , Alexander John D.
Published: March 2019

Surrogate species are commonly used in conservation science due to the fact that it is not feasible to measure and manage each component of biodiversity independently; yet, there is much debate about their efficacy. We use long‐term monitoring data from six national park units in northern California and southern Oregon to test the focal species approach, wherein a suite of species is selected whose habitat requirements collectively encompass those of co‐occurring species. Specifically, we examine how well existing Partners in Flight (PIF) habitat‐based focal species lists and empirically derived focal species lists represent vegetation and three avian assemblages of interest: the entire assemblage, species of concern, and common species in steep decline. ExistingPIFfocal species lists were significantly correlated with the three alternative matrices of avian assemblages and vegetation, but not all parks and alternate matrices performed with equal correlative strength and/or significance. For example, existingPIFfocal species lists were significantly correlated to the entire assemblage at five of the six parks and had ecologically meaningful correlations (>0.70) at four. However,PIFfocal species list correlations with park specific species of concern and common species in steep declined varied widely, with correlations between 0.040–0.943 and 0.210–0.556, respectively. Averaged across park units the empirical focal species lists developed to represent both vegetation metrics and species of concern improved correlation with all alternative matrices of avian assemblages and vegetation metrics. We found that the focal species approach generally represented the entire avian community, but did not adequately represent suites of species of concern or common species in decline. Empirical testing is a critical step in validating or refining suites of focal species at management relevant scales, and in some instances, a more refined focal species list may increase overall utility of the surrogate species approach.
Trails‐as‐transects: phenology monitoring across heterogeneous microclimates in Acadia National Park, Maine
Authors: McDonough MacKenzie Caitlin , Primack Richard B. , Miller‐Rushing Abraham J.
Published: March 2019

Climate‐driven shifts in phenology, which are being observed worldwide, affect ecosystem services, trophic interactions, and community composition, presenting challenges to managers in protected areas. Resource management benefits from local, species‐specific phenology information. However, phenology monitoring programs in heterogeneous landscapes typically require serendipitous historical records or many years of contemporary data before trends in phenological responses to changes in climate can be analyzed. Here, we used a trails‐as‐transects approach to rapidly accumulate monitoring data across environmental gradients on three mountains in Acadia National Park, Maine, USA, and compared our results to phenological changes observed in Concord, Massachusetts, USA. In four years of intensive monitoring of transects on three mountains, we found large variability in spring temperatures across the mountains, but consistent patterns of advancing flower and leaf phenology in warmer microclimates. Reduced sampling intensity would have yielded similar results, but a shorter duration would not have revealed these patterns. The plants in Acadia responded to warming spring temperatures by shifting leaf and flower phenology in the same direction (earlier), but at a reduced rate (as measured in d/°C), in comparison with plants in southern New England (e.g., Concord, Massachusetts, USA). Our approach takes advantage of topographical complexity and associated microclimate gradients to substitute for long time series, allowing for rapid assessment of phenological response to climate. Other climate gradients (e.g., urban‐to‐rural, latitudinal, or coastal‐to‐inland) could work similarly. This intensive monitoring over a short time period quickly builds a robust dataset and can inform management decisions regarding future monitoring strategies, including sampling designs for citizen science‐based phenology monitoring programs.
The role of ventricular–arterial coupling in cardiac disease and heart failure: assessment, clinical implications and therapeutic interventions. A consensus document of the European Society of Cardiology Working Group on Aorta & Peripheral Vascular Diseases, European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging, and Heart Failure Association
Authors: Ikonomidis Ignatios , Aboyans Victor , Blacher Jacque , Brodmann Marianne , Brutsaert Dirk L. , Chirinos Julio A. , De Carlo Marco , Delgado Victoria , Lancellotti Patrizio , Lekakis John , Mohty Dania , Nihoyannopoulos Petros , Parissis John , Rizzoni Damiano , Ruschitzka Frank , Seferovic Petar , Stabile Eugenio , Tousoulis Dimitrios , Vinereanu Dragos , Vlachopoulos Charalambos , Vlastos Dimitrios , Xaplanteris Panagiotis , Zimlichman Reuven , Metra Marco
Published: March 2019

Ventricular–arterial coupling (VAC) plays a major role in the physiology of cardiac and aortic mechanics, as well as in the pathophysiology of cardiac disease. VAC assessment possesses independent diagnostic and prognostic value and may be used to refine riskstratification and monitor therapeutic interventions. Traditionally, VAC is assessed by the non‐invasive measurement of the ratio of arterial (Ea) to ventricular end‐systolic elastance (Ees). With disease progression, both Ea and Ees may become abnormal and the Ea/Ees ratio may approximate its normal values. Therefore, the measurement of each component of this ratio or of novel more sensitive markers of myocardial (e.g. global longitudinal strain) and arterial function (e.g. pulse wave velocity) may better characterize VAC. In valvular heart disease, systemic arterial compliance and valvulo–arterial impedance have an established diagnostic and prognostic value and may monitor the effects of valve replacement on vascular and cardiac function. Treatment guided to improve VAC through improvement of both or each one of its components may delay incidence of heart failure and possibly improve prognosis in heart failure. In this consensus document, we describe the pathophysiology, the methods of assessment as well as the clinical implications of VAC in cardiac diseases and heart failure. Finally, we focus on interventions that may improve VAC and thus modify prognosis.
Synthetic Exploration of α‐Diazo γ‐Butyrolactams
Authors: Zhukovsky Daniil , Dar'in Dmitry , Kantin Grigory , Krasavin Mikhail
Published: March 2019

DIazo transfer reaction onto γ‐butyrolactams (activated by α‐ethyloxalylation) gave rare α‐diazo γ‐butyrolactams. Decomposition of the latter by Rh2(OAc)4 in the presence of alcohols and water gave products of O–H insertion of the respective metal‐cabene species. Silver triflate (1 mol‐%) was found to convert the γ‐butyrolactams investigated into 1,5‐dihydro‐2H‐pyrrol‐2‐ones which represent versatile building blocks. Particular instability was noted for α‐diazo γ‐butyrolactams bearing alkyl or o‐substituted aryl substituents on the nitrogen atom. These were found to dimerize in solution or upon storage at room temperature to give fully conjugated bis‐hydrazones along with the loss of a nitrogen molecule.
Synthetic Adventures with 2‐C‐Branched Carbohydrates: 4‐C‐Formyl Branched Octoses with Structural Analogy to Bradyrhizose
Authors: Borowski Daniel , Maichle‐Mössmer Cäcilia , Ziegler Thomas
Published: March 2019

The synthesis of three 4‐C‐formyl branched octoses with variable stereoconfiguration at the C‐2 and C‐3 stereogenic centers is described. This class of compounds is of interest due to potential structural analogies to the naturally occurring bradyrhizose monosaccharide. Branched key sugar intermediates of the synthesis are 2‐C‐(1,2,3‐trihydroxyprop‐1‐yl)‐β‐d‐mannosides. A new mild oxidation protocol using known TEMPO/trichloroisocyanuric acid in ethyl acetate/toluene, buffered with 3‐(N‐morpholino)propanesulfonic acid, is described as a valuable reaction for selective primary alcohol oxidation and, hence, the formation of 2‐(spirofuranose)pyranoses. Upon global deprotection these spirofuranoses give complex mixtures of diverse hemiacetal forms of the liberated 4‐C‐formyl octoses. As revealed by detailed NMR studies, the bradyrhizose‐type annulated forms do not represent the major isomers. For each of the target octoses, these potential neighboured acetal‐hemiacetal‐forms (9,7‐pyranose‐1,9‐pyranoses) seem to be unfavorable, and instead remote bis(hemiacetals) are formed (1,5‐pyranose‐9,7‐pyranoses or 1,4‐furanose‐9,7‐pyranoses) as the major species.
Limitations of the Clausius‐Mossotti function used in dielectrophoresis and electrical impedance studies of biomacromolecules
Authors: Pethig Ronald
Published: March 2019

Dielectrophoresis (DEP) studies have progressed from the microscopic scale of cells and bacteria, through the mesoscale of virions to the molecular scale of DNA and proteins. The Clausius‐Mossotti function, based on macroscopic electrostatics, is invariably employed in the analyses of all these studies. The limitations of this practice are explored, with the conclusion that it should be abandoned for the DEP study of proteins and modified for native DNA. For macromolecular samples in general, a DEP theory that incorporates molecular‐scale interactions and the influence of permanent dipoles is more appropriate. Experimental ways to test these conclusions are proposed.
A microchip device to enhance free flow electrophoresis using controllable pinched sample injections
Authors: Zhou Wanjun , Xia Ling , Xiao Xiaohua , Li Gongke , Pu Qiaosheng
Published: March 2019

Micro free flow electrophoresis (µFFE) is a valuable technique capable of high throughput rapid microscale electrophoretic separation along with mild operating conditions. However, the stream flow separation nature of free flow electrophoresis affects its separation performance with additional stream broadening due to sample stream deflection. To reduce stream broadening and enhance separation performance of µFFE, we presented a simple microfluidic device that enables injection bandwidth control. A pinched injection was formed in the reported µFFE system using operating buffer at sample flow rate ratio (r) setting. Initial bandwidth at the entrance of separation chamber can be shrunk from 800 to 30 µm when r increased from 1 to 256. Stream broadening at the exit of separation chamber can be reduced by about 96% when r increased from 4 to 128, according to both theoretical and experimental results. Moreover, the separation resolution for a dye mixture was enhanced by a factor of 4 when r increased from 16 to 128, which corresponded to an 80% reduction in sample initial bandwidth. Furthermore, a similar enhancement on amino acids separation was obtained by using injection control in the reported µFFE device and readily integrated into online/offline sample preparation and/or downstream analysis procedures.
Computational fluid dynamic evaluation of heat transfer enhancement in microchannel solar collectors sustained by alumina nanofluid
Authors: Ahadi Amirhossein , Antoun Sylvie , Saghir M. Ziad , Swift John
Published: March 2019

Nanofluids have produced a wide range of researches for various cooling/heating purposes, owing to the enhanced thermophysical properties they bring by suspending nanoparticles in the base fluid. This work proposes a detailed computational fluid dynamic (CFD) study of heat transfer enhancement in microchannel solar collectors coupled with nanofluid. The accuracy of the numerical model is ensured through a reliable finite element analysis considering the complexity of the three‐dimensional structure of microchannel solar collector. The thermophoretic motion induced by the suspension of Al2O3 nanoparticles was also evaluated to further understand the thermal enhancement observed in forced convection regimes. The accuracy of the model was first validated with respect to propylene glycol/water fluid, and then applied to evaluate the performance for Al2O3/water nanofluid. A detailed comparison of the performance of the two fluids with an assessment of the temperature and velocity profiles, was adopted to evaluate the thermal efficacy of adding nanofluids. A further investigation of the effect of solar collector inclination angles (0, π/6, π/4,and π/3) at the optimal volumetric concentration of the nanofluid was also done to determine the impact of the system geometry on the efficacy of the heat removal. It was established that the optimal heat removal is achieved at 2% nanoparticle concentration. Finally, it was also detected that increasing the inclination angle of the solar collector (from 0 to π/3) obstructed the heat removal efficiency.
Implementation of enhanced thermal conductivity approach to an LHTES system with in‐line spherical capsules
Authors: Metin Cagri , Hacipasaoglu Servet Giray , Alptekin Ersin , Ezan Mehmet Akif
Published: March 2019

In this study, the influences of inlet temperature and velocity of the heat transfer fluid and the capsule material on the performance of a latent heat thermal energy storage unit is numerically investigated. The enhanced thermal conductivity approach is implemented into the ANSYS‐FLUENT software to consider the natural‐convection‐dominated melting process within the capsules. The accuracy of the procedure is checked by comparing the current findings for inward melting against the numerical results from the literature. The comparative results reveal that the proposed approach is successfully incorporated, and the maximum deviation is obtained to be less than 10%. Results of the parametric analyses are represented regarding the first and second laws of the thermodynamics. The time‐wise variations of the melting front, the mean temperature of the phase change material, and the rate of entropy generation are evaluated. Increasing the inlet temperature and velocity of air significantly reduces the time for complete melting. The total time for melting is reduced by half when the inlet temperature of air is increased from Tm + 10 to Tm + 20 and the entropy generation rate increases more than four times. Besides, increasing the air inlet velocity from 0.5 m/s to 3.0 m/s doubles the entropy generation.
Numerical recipes for successfully modeling the phase transitions in thermal energy storage adsorption systems
Authors: Fernandes Marco S. , Brites Gonçalo J. V. N. , Costa José J. , Gaspar Adélio R. , Costa Vítor A. F.
Published: March 2019

Strong convergence problems may arise during the dynamic simulation of the phase transitions of adsorption systems subjected to larger and/or random fluctuations of the boundary conditions, which do not follow the conventional cycle sequence (e.g., adsorptive thermal storage systems). This sequence could even be reversed at some instants and its stages not completed. Such convergence problems preclude solving those phase transitions, and thus the successful dynamic simulation of the adsorption systems. A set of numerical procedures for solving those problems is proposed, consisting of a small group of new conditions to be added to the conventional numerical algorithms. Its successful use is demonstrated in the dynamic simulation of a thermal energy storage system provided with an adsorption module, modeled in two distinct but coupled platforms (TRNSYS and MATLAB), for which the convergence difficulties are identified and described. Results indicate successful convergence by applying the proposed methodology, in contrast with the original algorithm, attesting for its capability to overcome the convergence problems that occur during the system's dynamic simulation. This set of numerical recipes can be adapted for other systems' algorithms, or to serve as a basis for its successful dynamic simulation, thus showing a promising and enlarged range of use.
Optimization with constraints considering polymorphic uncertainties
Authors: Mäck Markus , Caylak Ismail , Edler Philipp , Freitag Steffen , Hanss Michael , Mahnken Rolf , Meschke Günther , Penner Eduard
Published: March 2019

In this contribution, a numerical design strategy for the optimization under polymorphic uncertainty is introduced and applied to a self‐weight minimization of a framework structure. The polymorphic uncertainty, which affects the constraint function of the optimization problem, is thereby modeled in terms of stochastic variables, fuzzy sets, and intervals to account for variability, imprecision and insufficient information. The stochastic quantities are computed using polynomial chaos expansion resulting in a purely fuzzy‐valued formulation of the constraint functions which can be computed using α‐cut optimization. Afterward, the constraint function can be interpreted in a possibilistic manner, resulting in a flexible formulation to include expert knowledge and to achieve a robust design.
GATA3 germline variant is associated with CRLF2 expression and predicts outcome in pediatric B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Madzio Joanna , Pastorczak Agata , Sedek Lukasz , Braun Marcin , Taha Joanna , Wypyszczak Kamila , Trelinska Joanna , Lejman Monika , Muszynska‐Roslan Katarzyna , Tomasik Bartlomiej , Derwich Katarzyna , Koltan Andrzej , Kazanowska Bernarda , Irga‐Jaworska Nina , Badowska Wanda , Matysiak Michal , Kowalczyk Jerzy , Styczynski Jan , Fendler Wojciech , Szczepanski Tomasz , Mlynarski Wojciech
Published: March 2019

The germline variant at rs3824662 in GATA3 is a risk locus for Philadelphia‐like acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph‐like ALL), the biological subtype of B‐cell precursor (BCP)‐ALL defined by a distinct gene expression profile and the presence of specific somatic aberrations including rearrangements of CRLF2. In this study, we investigated whether rs3824662 in GATA3 associates with CRLF2 expression in leukemic cells and predicts prognosis in pediatric BCP‐ALL patients treated according to the ALL Intercontinental Berlin‐Frankfurt‐Münster (IC BFM) 2009 (n = 645) and the ALL IC BFM 2002 (n = 216) protocols. High expression of CRLF2 was observed at both protein and mRNA levels (fourfold higher in AA than in CA + CC) among GATA3 AA variant carriers, independent of the presence of P2RY8‐CRLF2 fusion. Additionally, the AA variant at rs3824662 was a significant factor affecting minimal residual disease level at the end of induction phase and overall survival regardless of the risk group and the protocol. The germline variant at rs3824662 in GATA3 is a prognostic factor which associates with CRLF2 expression in leukemic cells supporting the hypothesis that GATA3 may have a regulatory effect on the CRLF2 pathway in pediatric BCP‐ALL.
Resting‐state fMRI detects the effects of learning in short term: A visual search training study
Authors: Bueichekú Elisenda , Miró‐Padilla Anna , Ávila César
Published: March 2019

Can resting‐state functional connectivity (rs‐FC) detect the impact of learning on the brain in the short term? To test this possibility, we have combined task‐FC and rs‐FC tested before and after a 30‐min visual search training. Forty‐two healthy adults (20 men) divided into no‐contact control and trained groups completed the study. We studied the connectivity between four different regions of the brain involved in visual search: the primary visual area, the right posterior parietal cortex (rPPC), the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (rDLPFC), and the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (dACC). Task‐FC showed increased connectivity between the rPPC and rDLPFC and between the dACC and rDLPFC from pretraining to posttraining for both the control group and the trained group, suggesting that connectivity between these areas increased with task repetition. In rs‐FC, we found enhanced connectivity between these regions in the trained group after training, especially in those with better learning. Whole brain independent component analyses did not reveal any change in main networks after training. These results imply that rs‐FC may not only predict individual differences in task performance, but rs‐FC might also serve to monitor the impact of learning on the brain after short periods of cognitive training, localizing them in brain areas specifically involved in training.
Tumor‐induced hypophosphatemic osteomalacia caused by a mesenchymal tumor of the mandible managed by a segmental mandibulectomy and microvascular reconstruction with a free fibula flap
Authors: Acharya Rishabh P. , Won Alexander M. , Moon Bryan S. , Flint James H. , Roubaud Margaret S. , Williams Michelle D. , Hessel Amy C. , Murphy William A. , Chambers Mark S. , Gagel Robert F.
Published: March 2019

Background

Tumor‐induced osteomalacia is a rare paraneoplastic syndrome in which patients develop hypophosphatemia and osteomalacia.

Methods and Results

Here, we report a unique case of a 42‐year‐old man who presented to our institution with a 1‐year history of pain in his ribs, hips, lower back, and feet. Radiologic examination revealed a decrease in bone density and multiple insufficiency fractures. Laboratory evaluation revealed hypophosphatemia, low serum 1,25 dihydroxy vitamin D3, and elevated fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23). A positron emission tomography/CT scan showed increased uptake in the right mandibular third molar region. Panoramic radiography and CT scanning showed a lytic expansile bone lesion. A mandibular bone biopsy revealed a mixed connective tissue tumor. A right segmental mandibulectomy was performed, followed by microvascular reconstruction. The resection was confirmed by normalization of serum phosphate and FGF23.

Conclusion

Successful management of this condition was achieved, with complete surgical resection of the tumor and reconstructive surgery.
Collagen Formation Assessed by N‐Terminal Propeptide of Type 3 Procollagen Is a Heritable Trait and Is Associated With Liver Fibrosis Assessed by Magnetic Resonance Elastography
Authors: Caussy Cyrielle , Bhargava Meera , Villesen Ida F. , Gudmann Natasja S. , Leeming Diana J. , Karsdal Morten A. , Faulkner Claire , Bao Denny , Liu Amy , Lo Min‐Tzu , Bettencourt Ricki , Bassirian Shirin , Richards Lisa , Brenner David A. , Chen Chi‐Hua , Sirlin Claude B. , Loomba Rohit
Published: March 2019

N‐terminal propeptide of type 3 procollagen (PRO‐C3) is a biomarker of liver fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study examines the association between PRO‐C3 concentration and liver fibrosis assessed by magnetic resonance elastography (MRE)–measured stiffness (MRE‐stiffness) and the heritability of PRO‐C3 concentration in a cohort of twins and families with and without NAFLD. We performed a cross‐sectional analysis of a well‐characterized prospective cohort of 306 participants, including 44 probands with NAFLD‐cirrhosis and their 72 first‐degree relatives, 24 probands with NAFLD without advanced fibrosis and their 24 first‐degree relatives, and 72 controls without NAFLD and their 72 first‐degree relatives. Liver steatosis was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging proton density fat fraction, and liver fibrosis was assessed by MRE‐stiffness. Serum PRO‐C3 was assessed by competitive, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. We assessed the familial correlation of PRO‐C3 concentration, the shared gene effects between PRO‐C3 concentration and liver steatosis and fibrosis, and the association between PRO‐C3 concentration and genetic variants in the patatin‐like phospholipase domain–containing 3 (PNPLA3), transmembrane 6 superfamily member 2 (TM6SF2), membrane‐bound O‐acyltransferase domain–containing (MBOAT), and glucokinase regulator (CGKR) genes. In multivariable‐adjusted models including age, sex, body mass index, and ethnicity, serum PRO‐C3 correlated strongly with liver fibrosis (r
2 = 0.50, P < 0.001) and demonstrated robust heritability (h
2, 0.36; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.07, 0.59; P = 0.016). PRO‐C3 concentration and steatosis had a strong genetic correlation (shared genetic determination: 0.62; 95% CI, 0.236, 1.001; P = 0.002), whereas PRO‐C3 concentration and fibrosis had a strong environmental correlation (shared environmental determination: 0.55; 95% CI, 0.317, 0.717; P < 0.001). PRO‐C3 concentrations were higher in carriers of the TM6SF2 rs58542926‐T allele compared with noncarriers: 15.7 (± 10.5) versus 10.8 (± 5.7) ng/L (P = 0.047). Conclusion: Serum PRO‐C3 correlates with MRE‐assessed fibrosis, is heritable, shares genetic correlation with liver steatosis and shares environmental correlation with liver fibrosis. PRO‐C3 concentration appears to be linked to both fibrosis and steatosis and increased in carriers of the TM6SF2 rs58542926 risk allele.