bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How to consider target heart rate in patients with systolic heart failure
Authors: Izumida Toshihide , Imamura Teruhiko , Nakamura Makiko , Fukuda Nobuyuki , Kinugawa Koichiro
Published: June 2020

Aims

Heart rate reduction therapy using ivabradine, a selective inhibitor of the funny current of the sinoatrial node, is widely used in the systolic heart failure cohort. However, the optimal target of heart rate remains controversial. The association between heart rate and ‘overlap’ between E‐wave and A‐wave in the pulse wave transmitral flow Doppler echocardiography might be a key to find the ideal heart rate in each individual.

Methods and results

We performed transthoracic echocardiography in patients with systolic heart failure, and the association between heart rate, deceleration time, and overlap length between E‐wave and A‐wave was assessed. In total, 368 patients with systolic heart failure (median 76 years old, 190 men, median ejection fraction 40%) were included. The measured overlap length was 35 (−72, 115) ms. Given the results of multiple linear regression analyses, we constructed a formula: estimated overlap length (ms) = −589 + 6.2 × heart rate (bpm) + 0.81 × deceleration time (ms), which had a good agreement with actually measured one (r = 0.62). The ideal heart rate, at which the overlap length is ‘zero’ and probably cardiac output is maximized, is calculated as follows: ideal heart rate (bpm) = 93 – 0.13 × deceleration time (ms).

Conclusions

We proposed a novel formula using deceleration time to estimate ideal heart rate that achieves a zero overlap between E‐wave and A‐wave in patients with systolic heart failure. Prognostic impact of the formula‐guided heart rate optimization should be studied.
In‐hospital and long‐term mortality for acute heart failure: analysis at the time of admission to the emergency department
Authors: Lombardi Carlo , Peveri Giulia , Cani Dario , Latta Federica , Bonelli Andrea , Tomasoni Daniela , Sbolli Marco , Ravera Alice , Carubelli Valentina , Saccani Nicola , Specchia Claudia , Metra Marco
Published: June 2020

Aims

Acute heart failure (AHF) leads to a drastic increase in mortality and rehospitalization. The aim of the study was to identify prognostic variables in a real‐life population of AHF patients admitted to the emergency department with acute shortness of breath.

Methods and results

We evaluated potential predictors of mortality in 728 consecutive patients admitted to the emergency department with AHF. Possible predictors of all‐cause and cardiovascular (CV) mortality were investigated by Cox and Fine and Gray models at multivariable analysis. Among the 728 patients, 256 died during the entire follow‐up, 142 of these due to CV cause. The 1 year mortality rate was 20%, with the highest risk of death during the index hospitalization (with 8% estimate in‐hospital mortality at 30 days). A higher risk of events during the index hospitalization was more evident for the CV deaths, for which we found a cumulative 1 year incidence of 12% with a cumulative incidence in the first 30 days of hospitalization of about 5%. At multivariable analysis, age (P < 0.001), New York Heart Association (NYHA) class IV vs. I–II–III (P = 0.001), systolic blood pressure (P < 0.001), non‐cardiac co‐morbidities (≥3 vs. 0, P = 0.05), oxygen saturation (P = 0.03), serum creatinine (P < 0.001), and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (40–49% vs. <40%, P = 0.004; ≥50% vs. <40%, P = 0.003) were independent predictors of all‐cause mortality during the entire follow‐up. Age (P = 0.03), systolic blood pressure (P = 0.01), oxygen saturation (P = 0.03), serum creatinine (P = 0.02), and LVEF (40–49% vs. <40%, P = 0.03; ≥50% vs. <40%, P = 0.004) were independent predictors of CV mortality during the entire follow‐up. NYHA class IV vs. I–II–III (P < 0.001), serum creatinine (P = 0.01), and LVEF (40–49% vs. <40%, P = 0.02; ≥50% vs. <40%, P < 0.001) remained independent predictors for in‐hospital death, while only serum creatinine (P = 0.04), LVEF (40–49% vs. <40%: 0.32, P = 0.04; ≥50% vs. <40%, P < 0.001), and NYHA class vs. I–II–III (P = 0.02) remained predictors for in‐hospital CV mortality.

Conclusions

In this real‐life cohort of patients with AHF, the results showed a similar mortality rate comparing with other analysis and with the most important registries. Age, NYHA class IV, systolic blood pressure, creatinine levels, sodium levels, and ejection fraction were independent predictors of 1 year mortality, while LVEF <40% was the only predictor of both all‐cause mortality and CV mortality.
Effects of dapagliflozin on congestion assessed by remote pulmonary artery pressure monitoring
Authors: Mullens Wilfried , Martens Pieter , Forouzan Omid , Dauw Jeroen , Vercammen Jan , Luwel Evert , Ceyssens Wendy , Kockaerts Veerle , Ameloot Koen , Dupont Matthias
Published: June 2020

Aims

To explore the effects of dapagliflozin on congestion through CardioMEMS (Abbott Inc., Atlanta, USA) and Cordella™ pulmonary artery Sensor (Endotronix Inc., Lisle, Il, USA) devices, which are implantable systems that provide real‐time remote monitoring of pulmonary artery pressure (PAP).

Methods and results

Single‐centre open label observational pilot trial, to investigate the short‐term effects of dapagliflozin in consecutive heart failure and reduced ejection fraction patients with elevated PAP between October and December 2019, previously implanted with CardioMEMS or Cordella™ Sensor. Changes in PAP were evaluated with an area under the curve methodology to estimate the total sum increase or decrease in pressures (mmHg/day) for 7 days before and after starting dapagliflozin relative to the first day of each period. Nine patients (72 ± 10 years, N‐terminal pro b‐type natriuretic peptide 1027 ± 510 pg/mL, estimated glomerular filtration rate 45 ± 15 mL/kg/m2, left ventricular ejection fraction 35 ± 10%), all on optimal guideline‐directed therapy was included. The mean PAP was reduced from 42 ± 9.16 to 38 ± 9.95 mmHg with dapagliflozin therapy (P < 0.05). The average area under the curve for the week leading to dapagliflozin therapy remained unchanged compared to the drop observed for the week after therapy (P < 0.05). Interestingly, the drop in PAP occurred within the first 2 days of dapagliflozin and remained stable for the week following the start of the therapy.

Conclusions

This is the first study to demonstrate a direct effect of dapagliflozin on achieving effective hemodynamic decongestion, providing further mechanistic data regarding the potential mechanisms of sodium‐glucose co‐transporter‐2 inhibitor benefits on heart failure.
Prognostic impact of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist in patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Suzuki Sho , Motoki Hirohiko , Kanzaki Yusuke , Maruyama Takuya , Hashizume Naoto , Kozuka Ayako , Yahikozawa Kumiko , Kuwahara Koichiro
Published: June 2020

Aims

This study aims to investigate the prognostic impact of mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) on cardiovascular events in patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF; defined as left ventricular ejection fraction ≥45%).

Methods and results

A prospective multicentre cohort study was conducted in Nagano prefecture, Japan, between July 2014 and December 2018 that contained 518 consecutive HFpEF patients hospitalized for acute decompensated heart failure (HF). The primary outcome was a composite of cardiovascular death and HF readmission. We compared the incidence of cardiovascular events between patients who were prescribed with MRAs and those who were not in a propensity score matched cohort using a Cox proportional hazards regression model with a propensity score derived from 23 baseline variables. For sensitivity analysis, we conducted Cox proportional hazards regression models for the primary outcome adjusting for 16 clinically relevant variables in the crude cohort. The median age was 83 years, and 53% were female. The median left ventricular ejection fraction was 61%. During a median follow‐up of 553 days, the primary outcome occurred in 192 (37%) patients. MRAs were used in 255 (49%) patients. After analysis, a matched cohort consisting of 370 patients was created. After propensity score matching, the baseline characteristics were well balanced between the two groups. The incidence of the primary outcome was significantly lower in MRA users than in non‐users [32% (59/185) vs. 49% (90/185); hazard ratio (HR) 0.669, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.482–0.929, P = 0.016]. The incidence of cardiovascular death was also significantly lower in the MRA users [11% (21/185) vs. 22% (41/185); HR, 0.563; 95% CI, 0.333–0.953; P = 0.032]. The risk of HF readmission tended to be lower in the MRA users [29% (54/185) vs. 41% (75/185); HR, 0.738; 95% CI, 0.520–1.048; P = 0.089]. MRA use was also associated with a lower risk of the primary outcome after Cox proportional hazards analysis adjusting for 16 clinically relevant variables in the crude cohort (HR, 0.710; 95% CI 0.507–0.995; P = 0.047).

Conclusions

Mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist use was significantly associated with a lower risk of the primary composite outcome of cardiovascular death and HF readmission in patients hospitalized for acute decompensated HFpEF. The incidence of cardiovascular mortality was also significantly lower in these patients.
Prognostic impacts of dynamic cardiac structural changes in heart failure patients with preserved left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Yamanaka Shinsuke , Sakata Yasuhiko , Nochioka Kotaro , Miura Masanobu , Kasahara Shintaro , Sato Masayuki , Aoyanagi Hajime , Fujihashi Takahide , Hayashi Hideka , Shiroto Takashi , Sugimura Koichiro , Takahashi Jun , Miyata Satoshi , Shimokawa Hiroaki ,   CHART‐2 Investigators
Published: June 2020

Aims

We aimed to examine temporal changes in left ventricular (LV) structures and their prognostic impacts in patients with heart failure (HF) and preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).

Methods and results

In the Chronic Heart Failure Analysis and Registry in the Tohoku District‐2 (CHART‐2) study (n = 10 219), we divided 2698 consecutive HFpEF patients (68.9 ± 12.2 years, 32.1% female) into three groups by LV hypertrophy (LVH) and enlargement (LVE) at baseline: (−)LVH/(−)LVE (n = 989), (+)LVH/(−)LVE (n = 1448), and (+)LVH/(+)LVE (n = 261). We examined temporal changes in LV structures and their prognostic impacts during a median 8.7‐year follow‐up. From (−)LVH/(−)LVE, (+)LVH/(−)LVE to (+)LVH/(+)LVE at baseline, the incidence of the primary outcome, a composite of cardiovascular death or HF admission, significantly increased. Among 1808 patients who underwent echocardiography at both baseline and 1 year, we noted substantial group transitions from baseline to 1 year; the transition rates from (−)LVH/(−)LVE to (+)LVH/(−)LVE, from (+)LVH/(−)LVE to (−)LVH/(−)LVE, from (+)LVH/(−)LVE to (+)LVH/(+)LVE, and from (+)LVH/(+)LVE to (+)LVH/(−)LVE were 27% (182/671), 22% (213/967), 6% (59/967), and 26% (44/170), respectively. In the univariable Cox proportional hazard model, patients who transitioned from (+)LVH/(−)LVE to (+)LVH/(+)LVE or remained in (+)LVH/(+)LVE had the worst subsequent prognosis [hazard ratio (HR) 4.65, 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.09–6.99, P < 0.001; HR 4.01, 95% CI 2.85–5.65, P < 0.001, respectively], as compared with those who remained in (−)LVH/(−)LVE. These results were unchanged after adjustment for the covariates including baseline LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and 1‐year LVEF change.

Conclusion

In HFpEF patients, LV structures dynamically change over time with significant prognostic impacts, where patients who develop LVE with LVH have the worst prognosis.
Transcriptomic profiling of bovine blood dendritic cells and monocytes following TLR stimulation
Authors: Barut G. Tuba , Lischer Heidi E. L. , Bruggmann Rémy , Summerfield Artur , Talker Stephanie C.
Published: June 2020

Dendritic cells (DC) and monocytes are vital for the initiation of innate and adaptive immune responses. Recently, we identified bona fide DC subsets in blood of cattle, revealing subset‐ and species‐specific transcription of toll‐like receptors (TLR). In the present study, we analyzed phenotypic and transcriptional responses of bovine DC subsets and monocytes to in vitro stimulation with four to six different TLR ligands. Bovine DC subsets, especially plasmacytoid DC (pDC), showed a clear increase of CCR7, CD25, CD40, CD80, CD86, and MHC‐II expression both on mRNA and protein level. Flow cytometric detection of p38 MAPK phosphorylation 15 min after stimulation confirmed activation of DC subsets and monocytes in accordance with TLR gene expression. Whole‐transcriptome sequencing of sorted and TLR‐stimulated subsets revealed potential ligand‐ and subset‐specific regulation of genes associated with inflammation, T‐cell co‐stimulation, migration, metabolic reprogramming, and antiviral activity. Gardiquimod was found to evoke strong responses both in DC subsets and monocytes, while Poly(I:C) and CpG preferentially triggered responses in cDC1 and pDC, respectively. This in‐depth analysis of ligand responsiveness is essential for the rational design of vaccine adjuvants in cattle, and provides a solid basis for comparative studies on DC and monocyte biology across species.
Stabilization of Pristine Low Resistive State in a Ruthenium(II)‐Polymer of a Hexadentate Schiff Base Ligand: Synthesis, Characterization, and Application as Non‐Volatile Memory Device
Authors: Oberoi Deepa , Dagar Parveen , Shankar Uday , Sahu Satyajit , Bandyopadhyay Anasuya
Published: June 2020

Metallo‐supramolecular polymers offer ample opportunity to develop new emergent materials with the potential for applications as future memories. In this context, we have synthesized a novel hybrid polymer of our developed Schiff base ligand with Ru(II)‐metal ion. The main objective of this study is to understand the effect of changing central metal ion on the ligand field stabilization energy, and the band gap of material as the biting angle of organic moiety changes accordingly with a change in cationic radius of the central metal ion. Furthermore, we have also investigated the application in non‐volatile memory devices. Complete characterization of the newly synthesized hybrid polymer has been performed to establish its structure as well as oxidation state of the central metal ion. A comparative study of the present case and the previously reported Fe(II)‐polymer provides a clear insight into the effect of incorporating a bigger size metal ion in the polymer chain. Non‐volatile memory properties of the polymer have shown a rare behaviour of Negative Differential Resistance (NDR) along with the Low Resistive State (LRS) as its pristine state. Remarkable charge retention and endurance test have also been demonstrated.
A retrospective review of changes and challenges in the use of antiseizure medicines in Dravet syndrome in Norway
Authors: Heger Katrine , Lund Caroline , Larsen Burns Margrete , Bjørnvold Marit , Sætre Erik , Johannessen Svein I. , Johannessen Landmark Cecilie
Published: June 2020

Objective

Dravet syndrome is a developmental and epileptic encephalopathy characterized by severe and drug‐resistant seizures in early childhood, followed by developmental delay. The purpose of this study was to investigate aspects of pharmacological treatment of Norwegian patients with Dravet syndrome, focusing on the use of antiseizure medicines (ASMs) and identifying treatment challenges.

Methods

Patients were identified through medical registries at the National Center for Epilepsy in Norway and National Center for Rare Epilepsy Related Disorders during 2008‐2018. Additional clinical data were obtained from medical records and laboratory request forms.

Results

We identified 53 patients with Dravet syndrome, 30/23 males/females, aged 2‐50 years. The majority of patients with known seizure frequency experienced frequent seizures, 80% (n = 35/44). Only two patients were seizure‐free. Valproate (n = 48), clobazam (n = 45), levetiracetam (n = 30), and stiripentol (n = 38) were most commonly used, previous or current use. More than one‐third (n = 20) had tried sodium channel blockers (including lamotrigine), but these drugs were used less during the last decade. Polytherapy was common, 81% (n = 43) used two or more ASMs, and eight of these patients used 4‐5 drugs (15%). Several challenges were identified: high seizure frequency, comorbidities, treatment changes with a wide range of ASMs, common use of oral gastro‐tubes, extensive polypharmacy, and drug interactions.

Significance

The use of ASMs has changed over the last decade, in accordance with updated international recommendations. Various treatment challenges were identified. This vulnerable group of patients needs close follow‐up for an optimal treatment outcome.
Application of open tools and datasets to probabilistic modeling of road traffic disruptions due to earthquake damage
Authors: Costa Catarina , Figueiredo Rui , Silva Vitor , Bazzurro Paolo
Published: June 2020

The disruption of a transportation network can have a high social and economic impact on the welfare of a society, as it can significantly affect the daily routines of a community. Although many studies have focused on the estimation of physical risk in the components that compose these networks, only a limited number have analyzed their interconnections and impact in the traffic flow. The present study analyzes how earthquake damage can disrupt the road network in an urban environment, and how this will influence the ability of the population to travel. Traffic due to daily commutes is modeled for different layouts of the network, corresponding to possible disruptions caused by earthquake damage. The duration and length of each trip were calculated both for the undamaged network conditions and for the disrupted network. The increase in the median duration and length of each trip allows estimating the economic loss for each event due to drivers' delay. By combining the probability of a specific road being blocked with its number of users, the average number of affected vehicles was estimated, and the most critical segments identified. The methodology was applied to a case study concerning the road network of the area around the Italian city of Messina in Sicily. The results were calculated for both a repetition of the well‐known historical event of 1908 and a set of simulated earthquakes consistent with the national probabilistic seismic hazard model of Italy.
Waste Balanites aegyptiaca seed oil as a potential source for biodiesel production in the presence of a novel mixed metallic oxide catalyst
Authors: Jamil Farrukh , Al‐Riyami Mohammed , Al‐Haj Lamya , Al‐Muhtaseb Ala'a H. , Myint Myo T. Z. , Baawain Mahad , Al‐Abri Mohammed
Published: June 2020

The current research work reports the synthesis of highly efficient heterogeneous barium oxide with molybdenum oxide (BaO‐MoO2) catalysts for transesterification of Balanites aegyptiaca seed oil for biodiesel production. The synthesized catalysts are being characterized through several analytical techniques such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), temperature‐programmed desorption (TPD) and Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET) to examine its suitability for biodiesel production. The biodiesel production process was optimized and optimum yield obtained was 97.8% using a set of optimum conditions such as methanol‐to‐oil molar ratio of 12, the processing time of 120 minutes, process temperature of 65°C and with catalyst loading of 4.5 wt%. Moreover, catalyst reusability was determined and it was found to be highly suitable for reuse with minimum loss of its activity. Further on, quality of the produced biodiesel was evaluated to show its suitability as fuel and its potential as an alternative to fossil diesel.
A tool to minimize the need of Monte Carlo ray tracing code for 3D finite volume modelling of a standard parabolic trough collector receiver under a realistic solar flux profile
Authors: Islam Majedul , Saha Suvash C. , Yarlagadda Prasad K. D. V. , Karim Azharul
Published: June 2020

The energy collection element of a parabolic trough collector includes a selective coated metallic receiver tube inside an evacuated glass tube. Perpendicularly incident sun light on the parabolic trough mirror aperture is concentrated on the receiver tube highly nonuniformly along its circular direction. This solar energy is collected as thermal energy circulating a suitable heat transfer fluid (HTF) through the tube. This conjugate heat transfer phenomenon under nonuniform heat flux boundary condition is computationally studied applying 3D finite volume (FV) modelling technique of computational fluid dynamics coupled with Monte Carlo ray tracing (MCRT) optical data. The MCRT model simulates the actual flux profile around the receiver tube. Apart from a FV model, this coupled study requires expertise in, and access to, a suitable MCRT code. A combination of polynomial correlations and user‐defined function (UDF) is introduced in this article in order to minimize the need of MCRT codes from subsequent FV modelling of the receiver tube of the Luz Solar 2 (LS2) collector. The correlations are developed from a verified 3D MCRT model, which is equivalent to the local irradiation data as a function of receiver circular location. The UDF includes two algorithms: one to develop solar flux profile from the correlations around the receiver, and the other to calculate heat loss from the receiver. Interpreting the UDF into ANSYS Fluent, a 3D FV model of the LS2 receiver is developed and validated with experimental results. The effectiveness of the UDF as an alternative to MCRT code is verified. The FV model is capable to investigate the heat transfer characteristics of the LS2 collector receiver at different solar irradiation level, optical properties of the collector components, glass tube conditions, HTFs, inserts or swirl generators, collector length, and internal diameter of the tube.
Research on cross‐well pseudorandom electromagnetic detection method and extraction of response characteristics
Authors: Song Xijin , Momayez Moe , Wang Xuelong , Chen Tao , Dang Feng
Published: June 2020

A method is proposed that uses the metal casing of an oil and gas production well to construct a long dipole emission line source and applies pseudorandom multifrequency excitation signals to it to identify reservoir characteristics of interwell reservoirs. This method can significantly improve the work efficiency and precision of electrical prospecting. The cross‐well pseudorandom response signal contains multiple main frequency components, as well as various measuring frequency points. Targeting the frequency components with different amplitudes and initial phases in the pseudorandom signal, the digital coherent detection method and its noise resistance are studied. Using this method can effectively extract the amplitude and phase information of each frequency component in different noise environments and has a strong ability to suppress signals of other frequencies. In the heterogeneous interwell reservoir detection model, the amplitude characteristics of each frequency component of the pseudorandom electromagnetic response at the measuring line with different well spacings are extracted. Numerical results show that the curve of equal‐frequency measurement appears downwardly "concave" at the interface of the low‐resistivity interlayer, and upwardly "convex" at the interface of the high‐resistivity interlayer. With the increase in the resistivity of the low‐resistivity interlayer, the dynamic range of the extraction component of the same frequency decreases gradually, and the family of equal‐frequency response curves overlap with each other. By contrast, for the high‐resistivity interlayer, as its resistivity gradually increases, the dynamic range of the extraction component of same frequency also increases gradually. Moreover, as well spacing varies, the response characteristics of the equal‐frequency curve family on different measuring lines are also obviously different. The digital coherent detection method significantly simplifies the receiving circuit system. In practical application, response information of different discrete frequency components can be extracted according to requirements. This thus provides a theoretical basis for the extraction of resistivity and characteristic identification of interwell heterogeneous oil and gas reservoirs.
Three‐dimensional antidunes coexisting with alternate bars
Authors: Inoue Takuya , Watanabe Yasunori , Iwasaki Toshiki , Otsuka Junichi
Published: June 2020

Antidunes are fluvial bedforms that form in rivers with supercritical flows. The water surface over antidunes is strongly in phase with the bed surface, and the water surface is amplified to produce large surface waves. Many experimental studies have addressed antidunes; however, the shapes of three‐dimensional antidunes in a wide channel with alternate bars have not yet been appropriately understood. In this study, we experimentally investigated the streamwise and transverse length scales of antidunes under conditions with a large width–depth ratio. Our experimental results provide evidence for the coevolution of antidunes and free alternate bars, and show for the first time that the development of free bars greatly alters the three‐dimensional shape of water surface waves over antidunes. In the absence of free bars in a wide channel, multiple longitudinal wave trains form, and the number of wave trains counted in the transverse direction increases with increases in the width–depth ratio. However, the presence of free bars affects the local flow characteristics, resulting in a decrease of the number of wave trains in the transverse direction. Therefore, we propose a simple model for predicting the reduction in the number of wave trains by combining two previous theories for antidunes and free bars. Results obtained by the model were found to largely agree with experimental observations. © 2020 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Grain‐energy release governs mobility of debris flow due to solid–liquid mass release
Authors: Cao Zhixian , Li Ji , Borthwick Alistair , Liu Qingquan , Pender Gareth
Published: June 2020

Debris flows often exhibit high mobility, leading to extensive hazards far from their sources. Although it is known that debris flow mobility increases with initial volume, the underlying mechanism remains uncertain. Here, we reconstruct the mobility–volume relation for debris flows using a recent depth‐averaged two‐phase flow model without evoking a reduced friction coefficient, challenging currently prevailing friction‐reduction hypotheses. Physical experimental debris flows driven by solid–liquid mass release and extended numerical cases at both laboratory and field scales are resolved by the model. For the first time, we probe into the energetics of the debris flows and find that, whilst the energy balance holds and fine and coarse grains play distinct roles in debris flow energetics, the grains as a whole release energy to the liquid due to inter‐phase and inter‐grain size interactions, and this grain‐energy release correlates closely with mobility. Despite uncertainty arising from the model closures, our results provide insight into the fundamental mechanisms operating in debris flows. We propose that debris flow mobility is governed by grain‐energy release, thereby facilitating a bridge between mobility and internal energy transfer. The initial volume of debris flow is inadequate for characterizing debris flow mobility, and a friction‐reduction mechanism is not a prerequisite for the high mobility of debris flows. By contrast, inter‐phase and inter‐grain size interactions play primary roles and should be incorporated explicitly in debris flow models. Our findings are qualitatively encouraging and physically meaningful, providing implications not only for assessing future debris flow hazards and informing mitigation and adaptation strategies, but also for unravelling a spectrum of earth surface processes including heavily sediment‐laden floods, subaqueous debris flows and turbidity currents in rivers, reservoirs, estuaries, and ocean. © 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Beyond cell parameters: Exploiting cell operation towards optimizing the SEI and suppressing dendrite growth on lithium metal anodes
Authors: Patino Daisy , Dong Bo , Villalobos Fabian , Herrera Steven , Bell Jeffrey , Ozkan Mihrimah , Ozkan Cengiz S.
Published: June 2020

Lithium metal electrodes are regarded as the optimal anode for next generation lithium ion batteries especially in the lithium‐sulfur architecture. Unfortunately, the lithium metal anode falls subject to several challenges such as dendrite formation and low Coulombic efficiency, which inhibit its candidacy as a viable technology. As such, substantial research efforts alter cell parameters in effort to manipulate interfacial chemistries, mitigate dendrite growth, and improve cyclability. Unlike conventional efforts, we demonstrate a practical cell operation approach to reinforce the Solid Electrolyte Interphase in lithium anodes via a refined formation protocol governed by the redox reactions found in lithium‐sulfur systems. Galvanostatic and electrochemical impedance data on Li‐Li symmetrical cells reveal that cell operation during the formation phase plays a critical role on interface stability of lithium metal anodes. Li‐Li symmetrical cells subject to our refined protocol, P2, displayed advantages in steadily enduring high cycling currents of 6 mA with minimal polarization, and in lowering the charge transfer resistance at the cell interfaces by a fourfold when compared to cells subject to conventional formation protocols. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy images demonstrate that our formation protocol significantly minimizes the size and dispersion of lithium dendrites, as well as the degree of plated lithium. These effects are enabled by the reinforced SEI formed during P2 which offers a stable ratio between the rates of lithium intercalation to lithium deposition. Microcomputerized tomography characterization further supports these findings by revealing that P2 averts dendrite nucleation sites, and yields greater quantity of SEI species, encompassing 41.1% volume of the entire anode, compared to just 21.5% from the common formation protocol found in literature. Overall, this approach deviates from the convention of materials exploration yet highlights the importance of understanding the nature of interfacial chemistries in response to cell operation. We believe the transferability of this approach has the potential to expedite the commercialization of next‐generation lithium ion technologies.
Hydrogen Atom Transfer Reaction Free Energy as a Predictor of Abiotic Nitroaromatic Reduction Rate Constants: A Comprehensive Analysis
Authors: Di Toro Dominic M. , Hickey Kevin P. , Allen Herbert E. , Carbonaro Richard F. , Chiu Pei C.
Published: June 2020

A linear free energy model is presented that predicts the second-order rate constant for the abiotic reduction of nitroaromatic compounds (NACs). Previously presented models use the one-electron reduction potential EH1(ArNO2) of the NAC reaction ArNO2+e−→ArNO2•−. If EH1(ArNO2) is not available, it has been proposed that EH1(ArNO2) be computed directly or estimated from the gas-phase electron affinity (EA). The model proposed uses the Gibbs free energy of the hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) reaction ArNO2+H•→ArNOOH• as the parameter in the linear free energy model. Both models employ quantum chemical computations for the required thermodynamic energies. The available and proposed models are compared using experimentally determined second-order rate constants from 5 investigations from the literature in which a variety of NACs were exposed to a variety of reductants. A comprehensive analysis utilizing all the NACs and reductants demonstrate that the HAT energy model and the experimental one-electron reduction potential model have similar root mean square errors and residual error probability distributions. In contrast, the model using the computed EA has a more variable residual error distribution with a significant number of outliers. The results suggest that a linear free energy model utilizing computed HAT reaction free energy produces a more reliable prediction of the NAC abiotic reduction second-order rate constant than previously available methods. The advantages of the proposed HAT energy model and its mechanistic implications are discussed as well. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:1678–1684. © 2020 SETAC
Histological and Behavioral Toxicity of Tributyltin in the Tropical Guppy Poecilia vivipara
Authors: de Paulo Driele Ventura , Mariz Célio Freire , de Melo Alves Maria Karolaine , Alves Romulo Nepomuceno , Batista Rodrigo Moço , Fillmann Gilberto , Carvalho Paulo S.M.
Published: June 2020

The tropical estuarine guppy Poecilia vivipara was used to address fish early life stage toxicity caused by the antifouling contaminant tributyltin. Six-day-old P. vivipara were exposed for 7 d to control water and waterborne tributyltin at 15.8, 83.8, 716, and 818 ng tin (Sn) L–1. After exposure, swimming, feeding, growth, and eye histological endpoints were evaluated. Histopathological analysis of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) indicated alterations in pigment positioning at all tributyltin concentrations. A dose-dependent increase in photoreceptor layer disorganization and iris melanin hyperpigmentation was verified, and high frequencies of RPE invaginations and iris epithelial cell atrophy were observed even at the lowest exposure concentration of 15.8 ng Sn L–1. At the highest exposure level (818 ng Sn L–1) fish also presented reductions in swimming speed, swimming resistance, daily capture of Artemia nauplii, and growth in weight of 85, 60, 33, and 56% relative to controls, respectively. This association between retinal histopathology and reduced swimming and foraging behavior can reduce recruitment to the adult population. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:1953–1963. © 2020 SETAC
Use of Zinc Carbonate Spiking to Obtain Phytotoxicity Thresholds Comparable to Those in Field-Collected Soils
Authors: Grigorita Gabriela , Neaman Alexander , Brykova Ramilla , Brykov Vasyl A. , Morev Dmitry V. , Ginocchio Rosanna , Paltseva Anna A. , Vidal Kooichi , Navarro-Villarroel Claudia , Dovletyarova Elvira A.
Published: June 2020

Several studies have reported the presence of smithsonite (ZnCO3) in soils polluted by zinc mining. The present study aimed to determine upper critical threshold values of Zn phytotoxicity in a substrate spiked with ZnCO3 and to compare them with those obtained in field-collected soils. We studied Zn toxicity to perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.) grown in pots with unpolluted peat treated with increasing concentrations of ZnCO3 that produced nominal total Zn concentrations of 0, 0.7, 1.3, 2.0, 2.6, and 3.3%. To keep constant near-neutral pH value in all the treatments, we used decreasing concentrations of dolomitic lime. In the treatment with total soil Zn of 3.3% (pH 6.8), the foliar Zn concentration of L. perenne was 1914 ± 211 mg kg–1, falling into the range of 2400 ± 300 mg kg–1 reported for Lolium species grown under similar laboratory conditions in a polluted soil (total soil Zn 5.4%, pH 7.3) collected near a Zn smelter. The value of 92 ± 98 mg kg–1 was obtained for the median effective concentration (EC50) values of 0.01 M KNO3-extractable Zn using the responses of shoot dry biomass, shoot length, and total pigments. This value falls within the range of 95 ± 46 mg kg–1 reported in other studies for the EC50 values of salt-extractable Zn using field-collected soils. The application of ZnCO3 for spiking was able to mimic foliar Zn concentrations of Lolium species observed in field-collected soils. The effective concentrations of soil Zn obtained in the present study are comparable to those obtained in field-collected soils. Future research should determine effective concentrations of metals using soils spiked with metal-containing compounds that mimic a real source of contamination. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:1790–1796. © 2020 SETAC
Testing for knowledge: Application of machine learning techniques for prediction of flashover in a 1/5 scale ISO 13784‐1 enclosure
Authors: Dexters Arjan , Leisted Rolff Ripke , Van Coile Ruben , Welch Stephen , Jomaas Grunde
Published: June 2020

A machine learning algorithm was applied to predict the onset of flashover in archival experiments in a 1/5 scale ISO 13784‐1 enclosure constructed with sandwich panels. The experiments were performed to assess whether a small‐scale model could provide a better full‐scale correlation than the single burning item test. To predict the binary output, a regularized logistic regression model was chosen as ML environment, for which lasso‐regression significantly reduced the amount of variance at a negligible increase in bias. With the regularized model, it was possible to discern the predictive variables and determine the decision boundary. In addition, a methodology was put forward on how to use the to update the learning algorithm iteratively. As a result, it was shown how a learning algorithm can be used to facilitate ongoing experimentation. At first as a crude guideline, and in later stages, as an accurate prediction algorithm. It is foreseen that, by iteratively updating the algorithm, by compiling existing and new experiments in databases, and by applying fire safety knowledge, the final learned algorithm will be able to make accurate predictions for unseen samples and test conditions.
Optimization of beef broth processing technology and isolation and identification of flavor peptides by consecutive chromatography and LC‐QTOF‐MS/MS
Authors: Wang Linhan , Qiao Kaina , Huang Yan , Zhang Yuyu , Xiao Junfei , Duan Wen
Published: June 2020

To investigate the flavor peptides of beef broth obtained under optimized stewing conditions, separation procedures such as ultrafiltration, Sephadex G‐15 column chromatography, and reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography were employed to isolate the umami taste peptides. Sensory evaluation was combined with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry to detect the flavor peptides. The optimization of the stewing process conditions was studied using the orthogonal method, which indicated that time had the most significant effect on the taste efficiency of sensory evaluation, followed by the mixed spices, sucrose, and salt. The optimized cooking conditions included 3.5 hr of cooking time, 1.800 g of sucrose, 2.125 g of salt, and 1.500 g of mixed spices. The results showed that six peptides, including SDEEVEH, AEVPEVH, GVDNPGHP, GSDGSVGPVGP, SDGSVGPVGP, and DEAGPSIVH, were detected in sample X1M1; and seven peptides, including VAPEEHPT, VVSNPVDIL, VGGNVDYK, PFGNTHN, EAGPSIVHR, VDFDDIQK, and DEAGPSIVH, were detected in sample X2M2. This study compared the flavor peptides in stewed beef before and after the optimization, and thus provided a basis for the improvement of beef processing technology.
Frequency and prognostic impact of PAX5 p.P80R in pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients treated on an AIEOP‐BFM acute lymphoblastic leukemia protocol
Authors: Jung Mareike , Schieck Maximilian , Hofmann Winfried , Tauscher Marcel , Lentes Jana , Bergmann Anke , Stelter Marie , Möricke Anja , Alten Julia , Schlegelberger Brigitte , Schrappe Martin , Zimmermann Martin , Stanulla Martin , Cario Gunnar , Steinemann Doris
Published: June 2020

PAX5 is a member of the paired box (PAX) family of transcription factors involved in B‐cell development. PAX5P80R has recently been described as a distinct genetic B‐cell precursor (BCP) acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) subtype with a favorable prognosis in adults. In contrast, an unfavorable outcome has been observed in children. Our aim was to determine the frequency of PAX5P80R in childhood BCP‐ALL treated according to the Associazione Italiana Ematologia ed Oncologia Pediatrica‐Berlin‐Frankfurt‐Muenster (AIEOP‐BFM) ALL 2000 protocol and to evaluate its clinical significance within this study cohort. The analyses included 1237 patients with ALL treated in the AIEOP‐BFM ALL 2000 trial with complete information for copy number variations (CNVs) of IKZF1, PAX5, ETV6, RB1, BTG1, EBF1, CDKN2A, CDKN2B, and ERG. A customized TaqMan genotyping assay was used to screen for PAX5P80R. Sanger sequencing was used to confirm PAX5P80R‐positive results as well as to screen for second variants in PAX5. Agilent CGH + SNP arrays (e‐Array design 85 320; Agilent Technologies) were performed in PAX5P80R‐positive patients to verify additional CNVs. Almost 2% (20/1028) of our BCP‐ALL cohort were PAX5P80R‐positive. White blood cell counts higher than 50 000/μl as well as male sex were significantly (P < .05) associated with PAX5P80R. Most of the PAX5P80R‐positive cases were 10 years of age or older. PAX5P80R‐positive samples were enriched for deletions affecting PAX5, IKZF1, CDKN2A, and CDKN2B. Compared to PAX5P80R‐wildtype BCP‐ALL, PAX5P80R‐positive patients showed a significantly reduced 5‐year overall survival (P = .042). Further studies should evaluate the interaction of PAX5P80R with other genetic aberrations to further stratify intermediate risk pediatric BCP‐ALL.
Characteristics, influencing factors, and prediction of fractures in weathered crust karst reservoirs: A case study of the Ordovician Majiagou Formation in the Daniudi Gas Field, Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Xie Runcheng , Zhou Wen , Zhang Chong , Lei Tao , Yin Shuai , Luo Ziwei
Published: June 2020

The study of fractures in karst reservoirs is a hot spot in the field of geosciences. In this article, we conducted a systematic study on the characteristics, influencing factors, and prediction methods of karst reservoir fractures of the Ordovician Majiagou Formation in the Daniudi Gas Field, China. Both weathering and tectonic fractures are mainly developed in the Ma 5 member of the Majiagou Formation. The former is categorized into surface weathering, steep wall tensile and karst collapse fractures, and the latter is made of tensile and shear fractures. The palaeo‐temperatures of the fracture filling inclusions range from 90 to 140°C, peaking at 111–120°C, which are derived from oxygen isotopes of −7.9 to −17.5‰, with average −14.1‰ from the same filling inclusions. Integrations of regional tectonic activities, inclusion tests, and stable isotope analysis recognizes four formation periods of fractures since the Caledonian. The factors controlling the development degree of the karst reservoir fractures include lithology, petrophysical properties, rock layer thickness, structural deformation strength, and karst palaeomorphology. The buckling thin plate simulation results show a good positive correlation between the maximum principal stress and tensile fracture density. The same positive correlation is also observed between the shear stress and fracture density. The ancient karst landforms have strongly affected the distribution of weathering fractures. Surficial weathering fractures occur typically in the weathered residual monadnocks, while steep wall tension ruptures in areas near geomorphic steep ridges, and karst collapse fractures in karst residual monadnocks and karst pit areas.
Invasive versus non‐invasive mapping of the motor cortex
Authors: Weiss Lucas Carolin , Nettekoven Charlotte , Neuschmelting Volker , Oros‐Peusquens Ana‐Maria , Stoffels Gabriele , Viswanathan Shivakumar , Rehme Anne K. , Faymonville Andrea Maria , Shah N. Jon , Langen Karl Josef , Goldbrunner Roland , Grefkes Christian
Published: June 2020

Precise and comprehensive mapping of somatotopic representations in the motor cortex is clinically essential to achieve maximum resection of brain tumours whilst preserving motor function, especially since the current gold standard, that is, intraoperative direct cortical stimulation (DCS), holds limitations linked to the intraoperative setting such as time constraints or anatomical restrictions. Non‐invasive techniques are increasingly relevant with regard to pre‐operative risk‐assessment. Here, we assessed the congruency of neuronavigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS) and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) with DCS. The motor representations of the hand, the foot and the tongue regions of 36 patients with intracranial tumours were mapped pre‐operatively using nTMS and fMRI and by intraoperative DCS. Euclidean distances (ED) between hotspots/centres of gravity and (relative) overlaps of the maps were compared. We found significantly smaller EDs (11.4 ± 8.3 vs. 16.8 ± 7.0 mm) and better spatial overlaps (64 ± 38% vs. 37 ± 37%) between DCS and nTMS compared with DCS and fMRI. In contrast to DCS, fMRI and nTMS mappings were feasible for all regions and patients without complications. In summary, nTMS seems to be the more promising non‐invasive motor cortex mapping technique to approximate the gold standard DCS results.
Clinically relevant connectivity features define three subtypes of Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Guo Tao , Guan Xiaojun , Zhou Cheng , Gao Ting , Wu Jingjing , Song Zhe , Xuan Min , Gu Quanquan , Huang Peiyu , Pu Jiali , Zhang Baorong , Cui Feng , Xia Shunren , Xu Xiaojun , Zhang Minming
Published: June 2020

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by complex clinical symptoms, including classic motor and nonmotor disturbances. Patients with PD vary in clinical manifestations and prognosis, which point to the existence of subtypes. This study aimed to find the fiber connectivity correlations with several crucial clinical symptoms and identify PD subtypes using unsupervised clustering analysis. One hundred and thirty‐four PD patients and 77 normal controls were enrolled. Canonical correlation analysis (CCA) was performed to define the clinically relevant connectivity features, which were then used in the hierarchical clustering analysis to identify the distinct subtypes of PD patients. Multimodal neuroimaging analyses were further used to explore the neurophysiological basis of these subtypes. The methodology was validated in an independent data set. CCA revealed two significant clinically relevant patterns (motor‐related pattern and depression‐related pattern; r = .94, p < .001 and r = .926, p = .001, respectively) among PD patients, and hierarchical clustering analysis identified three neurophysiological subtypes (“mild” subtype, “severe depression‐dominant” subtype and “severe motor‐dominant” subtype). Multimodal neuroimaging analyses suggested that the patients in the “severe depression‐dominant” subtype exhibited widespread disruptions both in function and structure, while the other two subtypes exhibited relatively mild abnormalities in brain function. In the independent validation, three similar subtypes were identified. In conclusion, we revealed heterogeneous subtypes of PD patients according to their distinct clinically relevant connectivity features. Importantly, depression symptoms have a considerable impact on brain damage in patients with PD.