bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case Study of Chronic Coronary Syndrome Revealing a Proximal Left Anterior Descending Artery Aneurysm
Authors: Amal En-Nasery , Abdellah Boucetta , Saleh Obeida , Alaa Altimimi , BOUZIANE Maha , HABOUB Meriem , Habbal Rachida
Published: November 2024

Context: Coronary artery aneurysms (CAA) are rare entities associated with significant clinical consequences, including thrombotic occlusions. Chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) may reveal CAA, complicating patient management, particularly when associated with coronary thrombosis. This case discusses a 55-year-old male presenting with angina and dyspnea, later found to have a proximal left anterior descending artery (LAD) aneurysm with thrombotic occlusion.
Case Presentation: A 55-year-old male with a history of hypertension, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia presented with exertional chest pain and dyspnea over three months. Coronary angiography revealed a large proximal LAD aneurysm with thrombotic occlusion of the mid-LAD (type B1).
Initial management included thromboaspiration and stent placement, followed by dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT). Despite recanalization, the patient developed a no-reflow phenomenon, managed with vasodilators and anticoagulation.
Conclusion: CAA can complicate the course of coronary syndromes, especially when associated with thrombosis. Percutaneous intervention can be successful, but complications like reocclusion and no-reflow may require intensive management strategies.
Performance Assessment of a Manually Operated Farmyard Manure Spreader
Authors: Kailashkumar.B  , Gunaseelan.S  , Dharanidharan.K  , Anbarasan.S
Published: November 2024

Farm Yard Manure (FYM) is a traditional and widely used organic fertilizer and soil conditioner in agriculture. It is composed of decomposed organic materials derived from farmyard waste, such as animal dung, plant residues, and other organic matter found on farms. The process of creating FYM involves collecting, piling, and allowing these organic materials to undergo natural decomposition over a period of time. This breakdown is facilitated by microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and earthworms. This research primarily focus on improving the uniformity of manure distribution, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring environmental sustainability. The spreader was constructed using durable materials, including a mild steel frame and a stainless steel hopper with a 5 kg capacity. Key performance indicators such as spreading width, uniformity, operational efficiency, and labor savings were measured. The results indicated that the spreader significantly outperformed traditional methods and basic mechanized spreaders in terms of efficiency and uniformity of manure application. The use spinning disc ensured consistent discharge rates and reduced the risk of blockages. Factors affecting the discharge rate, such as manure characteristics (moisture content, particle size, and consistency), spreader design (hopper shape, discharge mechanism, and opening size), operational parameters (spreader and beater speed, hydraulic pressure), field conditions (terrain and soil type), and environmental factors (temperature and weather), were analyzed in detail. The study highlighted the importance of regular maintenance and calibration in achieving optimal performance. The economic analysis demonstrated that the investment in this advanced manure spreader is justified by increased crop yields and reduced labor costs. Additionally, the environmental impact assessment showed improved nutrient management and reduced emissions, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices. The developed farmyard manure spreader offers a robust solution for efficient and uniform manure application, addressing the needs of modern farming practices.
Comparative Effect of Biochars on the Growth of Afzelia africana and Pterocarpus erinaceus in Nursery Conditions in Faranah, Guinea
Authors: Diallo Boubacar Laïla , Bah Hamidou , Akueson Adoté Hervé Gildas , Diallo Sara Bailo
Published: November 2024

Aims: This study aims to assess the effects of various biochar types on the germination, growth, and biomass of two native West African forest species, Afzelia africana and Pterocarpus erinaceus, under controlled nursery conditions, and to identify suitable biochar treatments for enhancing reforestation practices in Guinea. The study also seeks to provide actionable insights into improving soil resilience and forest growth strategies.
Study Design: Experimental design with five treatment groups.
Place and Duration of Study: Nursery trials conducted at Faranah, Guinea, over a six-month period.
Methodology: Five biochar treatments were applied: straw biochar (BP), peanut shell biochar (BCA), corn stalk biochar (BCM), household waste biochar (BDM), and a control with no biochar (D0). Key parameters measured included germination rate, leaf area, leaflet and leaf counts, as well as fresh and dry biomass for each species. Statistical analyses included normality tests, ANOVA, and Tukey’s post-hoc tests, ensuring robust evaluation of treatment effects on measured parameters.
Results: Significant variations were observed across treatments for several growth parameters. Afzelia africana responded favorably to BCA and BDM treatments, exhibiting increased leaf area, number of leaves, number of leaflets, and higher fresh and dry biomass (p < 0.05). Conversely, Pterocarpus erinaceus showed improved germination rate, germination energy, germination speed, and leaf area with the BCM treatment. The findings highlight strong correlations between germination and biomass parameters for Afzelia africana, underlining its resilience to substrate variation and the importance of biochar choice.
Conclusion: Tailoring biochar application to species-specific needs can enhance nursery growth conditions for reforestation purposes. BCA and BDM treatments are most beneficial for Afzelia africana, while BCM is optimal for Pterocarpus erinaceus. These results underline the practical potential of biochar in advancing reforestation initiatives and improving soil management strategies in Guinea’s nursery settings.
Laser Engraving Processes on AISI 304 Stainless Steel: A Multi-Objective Optimization Approach
Authors: Abegunde A. S. , Ojo O. O. , Farayibi P. K. , Adeyinka A.M
Published: November 2024

Laser engraving is becoming a preferred alternative to conventional machining for industrial post-processing due to its higher accuracy and elimination of tooling challenges. It is widely used for creating precise engravings on components in industries such as aeronautics, medical devices, printing, and general aesthetic applications. This research is developed around AISI 304 stainless steel based on its versatile use in various applications, investigating the influence of key laser engraving processing parameters such as laser power, scan speed, exposure time, and number of passes on output characteristics such as surface roughness, kerf width, engraving depth, and material removal rate. Analysis of variance and main effect plots were used to determine the optimal parameters for individual response while multi-response optimization to obtain a unified parametric combination was done by combining principal component analysis with a grey relational approach. The best combination of these processing parameters obtained for the multi-response optimization is (1, 0, 0, -1) which implies 15 W laser power, 28.57 mm/s scan speed, exposure time of 20 ms and (1) no of pass. The study has been able to establish that integration of grey relational analysis and principal component analysis shows a robust approach in investigating multi-objective optimization of processes.
Empreendedorismo Feminino: Práticas De Uma Empreendedora No Setor Comercial
Authors: Nascimento Giovana Souza Do , Filho Wlademir Leite Correia , Maduro Márcia Ribeiro , Lima Orlem Pinheiro De , Simões Aderli Vasconcelos
Published: November 2024

A junção de características pessoais e habilidades profissionais capacitam a iniciar e gerir negócios de sucesso,
nesse sentido compreender características empreendedoras torna-se essencial em qualquer empreendimento.
Esta pesquisa objetiva apresentar empreendedorismo feminino e as características relacionadas às práticas de
uma mulher empreendedora. Desta forma o presente trabalho busca suprir a necessidade de compreender as
práticas empreendedoras juntamente com características que englobam o empreendedorismo feminino. A
metodologia utilizada foi a pesquisa de abordagem descritiva, qualitativa, bibliográfica e de campo, a fim de
identificar os conceitos estudados e, consequentemente, realizar as análises. Com este fim, foi realizado um censo
com uma empreendedora do setor comercial em Manaus-Am. Os resultados corroboram com o objetivo da
pesquisa de compreender as características empreendedoras, sendo elas: Liderança, Identificação de
oportunidades, persistência, inovação, responsabilidade ao assumir riscos, planejamento e autoeficácia. De acordo com este estudo tais competências são fatores essenciais para que o empreendimento seja bem sucedido
Boom to bust? Implications for the continued rapid growth of the eastern Australian humpback whale population despite recovery
Authors: Noad Michael J. , Kniest Eric , Dunlop Rebecca A.
Published: February 2019

Despite heavy overexploitation and near extirpation, some populations of large whales are recovering. Monitoring their recovery has important implications for conservation, management and our understanding of population dynamics and recovery in large mammals. The eastern Australian population of humpback whales was hunted to near‐extirpation by the early 1960s. Despite this, the population started to recover, and structured surveys were initiated in the 1980s. These surveys comprise one of the longest and most consistent series of surveys of a population of whales in the world. Collectively, they have demonstrated a rapid recovery of the population with a long‐term average rate of increase of 10.9% per annum. Here, we present the results of the last three surveys, conducted in 2007, 2010 and 2015. The 2015 survey shows that the population is essentially recovered, with abundance estimated at 24,545 whales (95% confidence interval 21,631–27,851), and yet continues to grow at a rapid rate. Modeling the rate of growth and abundance suggests that either the whales are heading for a higher than expected abundance of at least 40,000 whales or that an irruption may occur with models suggesting a peak in whale abundance in 2021–2026. Understanding the possible future scenarios of this population is critical to its management. This situation also presents a rare opportunity to study in detail the growth of a well‐defined population of large mammal as it recovers from severe depletion.
Analysis of the role of mutations in the KMT2D histone lysine methyltransferase in bladder cancer
Authors: Ding Beichen , Yan Libin , Zhang Yucong , Wang Zhize , Zhang Yangjun , Xia Ding , Ye Zhangqun , Xu Hua
Published: February 2019

Histone lysine methyltransferases (HMT) comprise a subclass of epigenetic regulators; dysregulation of these enzymes affects gene expression, which may lead to tumorigenesis. Here, we performed an integrated analysis of 50 HMTs in bladder cancer and found intrinsic links between copy number alterations, mutations, gene expression levels, and clinical outcomes. Through integrative analysis, we identified six HMT genes (PRDM9, ASH1L, SETD3, SETD5, WHSC1L1, and KMT2D) that may play a key role in the development and progression of bladder cancer. Of these six HMTs, histone lysine N‐methyltransferase 2D (KMT2D) exhibited the highest mutation rate in bladder cancer. Our comparison of the mRNA and miRNA expression profiles of mutated and wild‐type KMT2D suggested that two signaling pathways (FOX1–miR‐1224‐5p–DLK1 and HIF/GATA5–miR‐133a‐3p–DRD5) may mediate the tumor suppressive effect of the KMT2D mutation. In summary, our findings indicate that mutations in HMT genes, especially KMT2D mutation, may play a role in the development of bladder cancer.
2D Black Phosphorus–Based Biomedical Applications
Authors: Luo Miaomiao , Fan Taojian , Zhou Yun , Zhang Han , Mei Lin
Published: February 2019

Black phosphorus (BP) has increasingly attracted scientific attention since its first applications in biomedicine due to its unique properties and excellent biocompatibility. In particular, its layer‐dependent bandgap, moderate carrier mobility, large surface‐area‐to‐volume ratio, biodegradability, intrinsic photoacoustic properties, and biocompatibility make it an ideal candidate for use in photothermal therapy, photodynamic therapy, drug delivery, 3D printing, bioimaging, biosensing, and theranostics, which are reviewed here. In addition, the article discusses strategies to overcome challenges related to surface instability due to chemical degradation, a major obstacle for its application. This review not only provides a comprehensive summary on BP preparation and biomedical applications but also summarizes recent research and future possibilities.
Emerging Technologies of Flexible Pressure Sensors: Materials, Modeling, Devices, and Manufacturing
Authors: Huang Yan , Fan Xiangyu , Chen Shih‐Chi , Zhao Ni
Published: January 2019

As an important branch of wearable electronics, flexible pressure sensors have attracted extensive research owing to their wide range of applications, such as human–machine interfaces and health monitoring. To fulfill the requirements for different applications, new material design and device fabrication strategies have been developed in order to manipulate the mechanical and electrical properties and enhance device performance. In this paper, the important progresses in flexible pressure sensor development over recent years are selectively reviewed from a material and application perspective. First, an overview of the fundamental working mechanism and the systematic design approach is presented. Particularly, how the theoretical modeling has been used as an auxiliary tool to achieve better sensing performance is discussed. A number of applications, including human–machine interfaces, electronic skin and health monitoring, and certain application‐driven functions, e.g., pressure distribution visualization and direction‐sensitive force detection, are highlighted. Lastly, various advanced manufacturing methods used for realizing large‐scale fabrication are introduced.
Few‐Layer Bismuthene with Anisotropic Expansion for High‐Areal‐Capacity Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhou Jing , Chen Jiangchun , Chen Mengxue , Wang Jun , Liu Xiaozhi , Wei Bin , Wang Zhongchang , Li Junjie , Gu Lin , Zhang Qinghua , Wang Hua , Guo Lin
Published: February 2019

Bismuth is a promising anode material for state‐of‐the‐art rechargeable batteries due to its high theoretical volumetric capacity and relatively low working potential. However, its charge storage mechanism is unclear, hindering further improvement of the cell performance. Here, using in situ transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray diffraction techniques as well as theoretical analysis, it is found that a large anisotropic volume expansion of 142% occurs along the z‐axis largely due to the alloy reaction during sodiation, significantly reducing the electrochemical performance of bismuth electrodes. To address this problem, ultrathin few‐layer bismuthene with a large aspect ratio is rationally synthesized, and can relieve the expansion strain along the z‐axis. A free‐standing bismuthene/graphene composite electrode with tunable thickness achieves a strikingly stable and high areal sodium storage capacity of 12.1 mAh cm−2, which greatly exceeds that of most reported electrode materials. The clarification of the charge storage mechanism and the superior areal capacity achieved should facilitate the development of bismuth‐based high‐performance anodes for practical electrochemical energy‐storage applications.
An Evolvable Organic Electrochemical Transistor for Neuromorphic Applications
Authors: Gerasimov Jennifer Y. , Gabrielsson Roger , Forchheimer Robert , Stavrinidou Eleni , Simon Daniel T. , Berggren Magnus , Fabiano Simone
Published: February 2019

An evolvable organic electrochemical transistor (OECT), operating in the hybrid accumulation–depletion mode is reported, which exhibits short‐term and long‐term memory functionalities. The transistor channel, formed by an electropolymerized conducting polymer, can be formed, modulated, and obliterated in situ and under operation. Enduring changes in channel conductance, analogous to long‐term potentiation and depression, are attained by electropolymerization and electrochemical overoxidation of the channel material, respectively. Transient changes in channel conductance, analogous to short‐term potentiation and depression, are accomplished by inducing nonequilibrium doping states within the transistor channel. By manipulating the input signal, the strength of the transistor response to a given stimulus can be modulated within a range that spans several orders of magnitude, producing behavior that is directly comparable to short‐ and long‐term neuroplasticity. The evolvable transistor is further incorporated into a simple circuit that mimics classical conditioning. It is forecasted that OECTs that can be physically and electronically modulated under operation will bring about a new paradigm of machine learning based on evolvable organic electronics.
Electron‐Beam‐Evaporated Nickel Oxide Hole Transport Layers for Perovskite‐Based Photovoltaics
Authors: Abzieher Tobias , Moghadamzadeh Somayeh , Schackmar Fabian , Eggers Helge , Sutterlüti Florian , Farooq Amjad , Kojda Danny , Habicht Klaus , Schmager Raphael , Mertens Adrian , Azmi Raheleh , Klohr Lukas , Schwenzer Jonas A. , Hetterich Michael , Lemmer Uli , Richards Bryce S. , Powalla Michael , Paetzold Ulrich W.
Published: February 2019

High‐quality charge carrier transport materials are of key importance for stable and efficient perovskite‐based photovoltaics. This work reports on electron‐beam‐evaporated nickel oxide (NiOx) layers, resulting in stable power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of up to 18.5% when integrated into solar cells employing inkjet‐printed perovskite absorbers. By adding oxygen as a process gas and optimizing the layer thickness, transparent and efficient NiOx hole transport layers (HTLs) are fabricated, exhibiting an average absorptance of only 1%. The versatility of the material is demonstrated for different absorber compositions and deposition techniques. As another highlight of this work, all‐evaporated perovskite solar cells employing an inorganic NiOx HTL are presented, achieving stable PCEs of up to 15.4%. Along with good PCEs, devices with electron‐beam‐evaporated NiOx show improved stability under realistic operating conditions with negligible degradation after 40 h of maximum power point tracking at 75 °C. Additionally, a strong improvement in device stability under ultraviolet radiation is found if compared to conventional perovskite solar cell architectures employing other metal oxide charge transport layers (e.g., titanium dioxide). Finally, an all‐evaporated perovskite solar mini‐module with a NiOx HTL is presented, reaching a PCE of 12.4% on an active device area of 2.3 cm2.
2D Metal Organic Framework Nanosheet: A Universal Platform Promoting Highly Efficient Visible‐Light‐Induced Hydrogen Production
Authors: Ran Jingrun , Qu Jiangtao , Zhang Hongping , Wen Tian , Wang Hailong , Chen Shuangming , Song Li , Zhang Xuliang , Jing Liqiang , Zheng Rongkun , Qiao Shi‐Zhang
Published: February 2019

2D metal organic frameworks (MOF) have received tremendous attention due to their organic–inorganic hybrid nature, large surface area, highly exposed active sites, and ultrathin thickness. However, the application of 2D MOF in light‐to‐hydrogen (H2) conversion is rarely reported. Here, a novel 2D MOF [Ni(phen)(oba)]n·0.5nH2O (phen = 1,10‐phenanthroline, oba = 4,4′‐oxybis(benzoate)) is for the first time employed as a general, high‐performance, and earth‐abundant platform to support CdS or Zn0.8Cd0.2S for achieving tremendously improved visible‐light‐induced H2‐production activity. Particularly, the CdS‐loaded 2D MOF exhibits an excellent H2‐production activity of 45 201 µmol h−1 g−1, even exceeding that of Pt‐loaded CdS by 185%. Advanced characterizations, e.g., synchrotron‐based X‐ray absorption near edge structure, and theoretical calculations disclose that the interactive nature between 2D MOF and CdS, combined with the high surface area, abundant reactive centers, and favorable band structure of 2D MOFs, synergistically contribute to this distinguished photocatalytic performance. The work not only demonstrates that the earth‐abundant 2D MOF can serve as a versatile and effective platform supporting metal sulfides to boost their photocatalytic H2‐production performance without noble‐metal co‐catalysts, but also paves avenues to the design and synthesis of 2D‐MOF‐based heterostructures for catalysis and electronics applications.
A Desolvated Solid–Solid Interface for a High‐Capacitance Electric Double Layer
Authors: Wang Yu‐Zuo , Shan Xu‐Yi , Ma Li‐Po , Wang Jia‐Wei , Wang Da‐Wei , Peng Zhang‐Quan , Cheng Hui‐Ming , Li Feng
Published: February 2019

Understanding the electric double layer is essential for achieving efficient electrochemical energy storage technologies. A conventional solid–liquid electrode interface suffers from serious self‐discharge and a narrow voltage window, which makes the development of a solid–solid interface imperative. However, an in‐depth understanding of the electric double layer with a solid–solid interface is lacking. Here, a solid–solid interfacial electric double layer is proposed with excellent electrochemical performance. The solid layer is constructed by the electrochemical decomposition of lithium difluoro(oxalate)borate, which provides a desolvated environment for the establishment of a electric double layer. This makes a stronger interaction between the electrode surface and the ions. Based on this unique property, it is found that the solid–solid interfacial electric double layer has an increased capacitance, which suggests a way to develop high‐energy electrochemical capacitors.
Optimal coupling of waste and concentrated solar for the constant production of electricity over a year
Authors: de la Fuente Ester , Martín Mariano
Published: January 2019

In this article, a biogas‐based Brayton cycle is integrated with a concentrated solar power facility. The gas turbine hot flue gas and the molten salts are used to generate steam for the regenerative Rankine cycle. The process model is solved as a nonlinear optimization problem within a multiperiod scheme to decide on the contribution of the energy resources and the operating conditions of the facility to meet a certain demand of power over a year mitigating the absence of solar availability. The steam turbine is responsible for power production while the gas turbine works mainly as a combustion chamber. In the South of Spain, an excess of biogas is available during summer yielding a production cost of electricity of 0.17 €/kWh with an investment of 380 M€ for a production facility of 25 MW. This plant is not yet economic.
Management of postendoscopic sphincterotomy bleeding with fully covered self‐expanding metal stent
Authors: Huang Pi‐Teh , Tsai Ming‐Hung , Chen Tsung‐Ming , Liu Chung‐Cheng , Tay Yeong‐Lin
Published: January 2019

Postendoscopic sphincterotomy (ES) bleeding is one of the most frequent complications following ES. Different endoscopic interventions are available to manage post‐ES bleeding. Recently, the temporary placement of fully covered self‐expanding metal stent (FCSEMS) to achieve a tamponade effect has been described in post‐ES bleeding not controlled by other measures. The aim of this article is to present our clinical experience with management of post‐ES bleeding using FCSEMS. This is a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data involving six patients who received FCSEMS for post‐ES bleeding after failure of traditional endoscopic interventions between the period of January 2013 and December 2016. Success of hemostasis and development of complications were evaluated. Successful hemostasis was achieved in all patients although one patient required additional endoscopic intervention after stent deployment. Two cases of pancreatitis were observed. There was no stent migration encountered. Temporary placement of FCSEMS is a safe and effective method to achieve hemostasis in post‐ES bleeding when primary endoscopic interventions failed. However, we should be aware of possible pancreatitis complications.
Epidemiology and trends of anaphylaxis in the United States, 2004‐2016
Authors: Chaaban Mohamad R. , Warren Zachary , Baillargeon Jacques G. , Baillargeon Gwen , Resto Vicente , Kuo Yong‐Fang
Published: February 2019

Background

No national study has examined the epidemiology of anaphylaxis after introduction of the codes of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Health Related Problems, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD‐10 CM). Our objective was to examine the trends in incidence and hospitalization rates in the United States utilizing ICD‐9 and ICD‐10 CM codes.

Methods

We used the Clinformatics database from 2004 to 2016. Our outcome measures included incidence of anaphylaxis and hospitalization trends. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the predictors of anaphylaxis and hospitalization.

Results

There were a total of 462,906 anaphylaxis cases. The incidence increased from 153 in 2004 to 218 in 2016 (per 100,000). Women were 1.19 (95% confidence interval, 1.18‐1.20) times more likely to present with anaphylaxis. Medication‐induced anaphylaxis increased 15‐fold.

Conclusion

This is the first population‐based study that included ICD‐10 CM codes to describe the epidemiology of anaphylaxis in the United States. ICD‐10 codes improved the accuracy of medication‐induced anaphylaxis, the most likely etiology to result in hospitalization.
Microwave ablation for the treatment of arterial epistaxis: “how I do it”
Authors: Lou Zheng‐Cai , Dong Yihan , Lou Zi‐Han
Published: January 2019

Background

Arterial epistaxis is commonly seen in the rhinology clinic and can have a significant impact on quality of life. Previous studies have explored various therapies to address epistaxis.

Methods

Patients were treated in the outpatient clinic or operating room by microwave ablation (MWA) with a 2450‐MHz cooled‐shaft antenna to treat an epistaxis bleeding point.

Results

Of the 481 patients with arterial epistaxis, bleeding was controlled within 1 to 2 minutes and only 2 patients with recurrent bleeding required re‐ablation. The shape of the thermal lesion was elliptical and it was approximately 2 mm in length, 1 mm in width, and 0.5 to 1 mm in penetration depth. Of the 481 patients, 167 (34.7%) complained of minor nasal pain on the same day of ablation. No patients complained of nasal pain or obstruction during the follow‐up period. In addition, 139 (28.9%) patients showed a minor increase in rhinorrhea during the first postoperative week. Of the 481 patients, 469 (97.5%) were followed‐up at 6 months with no severe MWA‐related complications, such as septal perforation, synechiae formation, or orbit and brain complications.

Conclusion

MWA is a technically feasible alternative method for patients with arterial epistaxis.
Metal–Organic Frameworks with Target‐Specific Active Sites Switched by Photoresponsive Motifs: Efficient Adsorbents for Tailorable CO2 Capture
Authors: Jiang Yao , Tan Peng , Qi Shi‐Chao , Liu Xiao‐Qin , Yan Jia‐Hui , Fan Fan , Sun Lin‐Bing
Published: February 2019

Photoresponsive metal–organic frameworks (PMOFs) are of interest for tailorable CO2 adsorption. However, modulation of CO2 adsorption on PMOFs is based on steric hindrance or structural change owing to weak interactions between CO2 and active sites. It is challenging to fabricate PMOFs with strong but tailorable sites for CO2 adsorption. Now, the construction of PMOFs with target‐specific (strong) active sites is achieved by introducing tetraethylenepentamine into azobenzene‐functionalized MOFs for tailorable CO2 adsorption. Amines are specific active sites for CO2, contributing to capture CO2 selectively. Cis/trans isomerization of azobenzene motifs trigged by UV/Vis light adjusts the electrostatic potential of amines significantly, leading to exposure/shelter of amines and modulation of CO2 adsorption on strong active sites. This system enables us to design adsorption processes for CO2 capture from mixtures, which is impossible to realize by traditional PMOFs.
Primary Metabolites and Polyphenols in Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) Cultivars in China
Authors: Zhang Miao , Zheng Chang , Yang Mei , Zhou Qi , Li Wenlin , Liu Changsheng , Huang Fenghong
Published: February 2019

Defatted meals of 10 rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) varieties were investigated for their total phenolic, phenolic acid (free, esterified, and insoluble‐bound forms), and tannin contents. The antioxidant capacities (AC) of methanol extracts from samples were assessed using the 2,2′‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH•), Folin–Ciocalteu method and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and β‐carotene–linoleic acid tests. In the fraction of free phenolic acids, sinapic, caffeic, ferulic, syringic, gallic, and p‐coumaric acids were identified. In the fraction of esterified phenolic acids, sinapine, sinapoyl glucoside, and disinapoyl gentiobiose were identified. After basic hydrolysis, sinapic, ferulic, cinnamic, and 4‐hydroxybenzoic acids were identified, and sinapic acid (SA) constituted 98.3% to 99.6% of the total esterified phenolic acids. Eleven components (sinapic, protocatechuic, p‐coumaric, syringic, vanillic, gallic, caffeic, ferulic, salicylic, cinnamic, and 4‐hydroxybenzoic acids) in the fraction of insoluble‐bound phenolic acids were identified. The AC of the samples correlated with the total phenolic content. Overall, the total phenolics showed a better correlation with AC than the individual phenolic compounds. Moreover, SA, sinapoyl glucoside, and disinapoyl gentiobiose showed a highly significant and strong positive correlation with the AC of rapeseed meals, and the derivatives of cinnamic acid showed a higher correlation with AC than the derivatives of benzoic acid. The change in the canolol content in rapeseeds under microwave irradiation is discussed. The correlation of the canolol formed with SA and its derivatives is discussed.
Enhancement of Wear properties of a polyether ether ketone polymer by incorporation of carbon and glass fibers
Authors: Hamilton Stephanie , Muñoz‐Escalona Patricia
Published: February 2019

Some properties of polymers can be improved through the incorporation of carbon and glass fibers into the polymer matrix. In this research, the wear resistance of two polymer composites CF‐polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and GF‐PEEK were compared with the virgin PEEK. The wear resistance was assessed by Pin on Disk tests performed using a range of reinforced polymer pins tested against a steel disk. The influence of load, sliding velocity, counter‐surface hardness, and reinforcement concentration and type, on the specific wear rate was investigated. The materials were chosen to simulate the wear experienced between a polymeric anti‐extrusion ring and a steel sealing surface utilized within valves in the oil and gas industry. The average mass loss was recorded and an analysis of the variance (ANOVA) carried out to investigate the contribution of each parameter on specific wear rate. Results showed that weight percentage reinforcement and type of reinforcement material were primary contributors toward specific wear rate, with a contribution of ~70%. Secondary contributors were sliding speed (~14%) and load and steel hardness (~12%). Following the wear tests, residual stress measurements were conducted on polymer reinforced with carbon fiber. It was found that compressive residual stresses existed, and that their magnitude increased with increasing load. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47587.
Management of a highly unlikely native fish: The case of arctic charr Salvelinus alpinus from the Southern Alps
Authors: Tiberti Rocco , Splendiani Andrea
Published: February 2019

As a result of ancient introductions, some alien species are erroneously considered native. Salvelinus alpinus (Linnaeus, 1758) is hypothesized to have survived as a postglacial relic in the northern European Alps, although documented ancient introductions contradict its native status in a few mountain lakes from the southern Alps (Trentino Alto Adige, Italy). Regardless of its uncertain origin, its recent expansion across the southern Alps (introduced into >170, mainly originally fishless, high‐altitude lakes) was the result of management and alleged conservation actions.

The present study is a review of the origin of S. alpinus in the southern Alps, and of the appropriateness of management and conservation actions.

The autochthony of S. alpinus in this region is rejected by multiple lines of evidence and its presence is most likely the result of historical introductions. Only the origin of two populations occurring at lower altitude is uncertain, as they may be native.

Residual uncertainty makes it difficult to evaluate the conservation status and value of the Italian populations of S. alpinus, but it does not prevent the highlighting of several errors in the past and the present management of this species.

Past and present introductions have altered the original genetics of the ancient populations and have contributed to the invasion of montane aquatic habitats by modern domestic fish. Although it is now timely to consider the adverse ecological consequences of fish stocking, the many introductions of S. alpinus are associated with a misleading conservation rhetoric, providing ambiguous educational messages to people and relevant stakeholders, and probably diverting resources intended for biodiversity conservation.

A non‐intervention approach (i.e. not to stock or fish S. alpinus) would have been the wiser strategy to preserve ancient populations, their supposed conservation value, and their actual cultural value. Even now, this strategy is probably the best option, while planning definitive research.
Alphabetic or Contributor Author Order. What Is the Norm in Danish Economics and Political Science and Why?
Authors: Henriksen Dorte
Published: January 2019

Researchers have different ways of deciding on the author order, and how they do it often depends on the culture of their field. Some fields are well known for using alphabetic author order, while others put a great emphasis on the meaning of the author order and place authors according to contribution. This article is the first to use mixed method to examine the extent of alphabetic author order and to examine why researchers adopt a certain author order norm in the fields of economics and political science. The article finds that alphabetic authorship has been and is the norm in economics, while some tendency towards it exists in political science. The differences in the intellectual and social organization of the fields seem to be a factor in the extent that these researchers will adopt a certain norm. Furthermore, the increasing number of authors per article and the publish‐or‐perish culture seems to put pressure on the alphabetic norm because it creates greater attention to the reputational advantages of being first‐author.
Synthesis and Reactivity of Cyclic Borane‐Amidine Conjugated Molecules Formed by Direct 1,2‐Carboboration of Carbodiimides with 9‐Borafluorenes
Authors: Kashida Junki , Shoji Yoshiaki , Fukushima Takanori
Published: February 2019

Efficient 1,2‐carboboration reactions to the C=N bond of carbodiimides with 9‐borafluorenes, which give rise to cyclic borane‐amidine conjugates with a seven‐membered BNC5 ring, are reported. The resulting cyclic borane‐amidine conjugates can be hydrolyzed into an acyclic bifunctional biaryl compound carrying both boronic acid and amidine groups, rendering the utility of the two‐step protocol for the synthesis of multi‐functionalized molecular systems with a potential as a supramolecular building block. Furthermore, the conjugated structure of the cyclic boron‐amidine compounds can be changed upon alkylation of the boron atom that increases the coordination number of boron. The combination of Lewis acid (borane) and conjugated base (amidine) provides rich structural diversity of heteroatom‐containing π‐conjugated systems.
A novel strategy to synthesize dual‐responsive polymeric nanocarriers for investigating the activity and stability of immobilized pectinase
Authors: Lei Lei , Liu Jiangtao , Ma Xiao , Yang Hong , Lei Zhongli
Published: February 2019

A dual‐stimuli‐responsive support material for pectinase immobilization through ionic bonding was prepared. Specifically, polystyrene‐b‐polymethylacrylic (PS‐b‐PMAA), light‐ and pH‐sensitive polystyrene‐(5‐propargylether‐2‐nitrobenzyl bromoisobutyrate)‐b‐poly(diethylamino)ethyl methacrylate‐b‐poly(polyethylene glycol methacrylate) (PS‐ONB‐PDEAEMA‐b‐PPEGMA) were synthesized through atom transfer radical polymerization, click chemistry, and hydrolysis. The two parts could self‐assemble into the micelles in an aqueous solution. The micelles shrunk at a higher pH, and their size reduced under UV irradiation. The stimuli‐responsive properties of micelles were characterized by dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy. It has been found that this support was able to adsorb 10 U/mL of immobilized pectinase (approximately 223 mg/g) at pH 5.0 and 60 °C for 60 Min. Meanwhile, the highest relative activity of immobilized pectinase was up to approximately 95% at pH 5.0 and 60 °C. The immobilized pectinase retained more than 50% of the initial activity after eight cycles. The relative activity of the pectinase immobilized on the supports without UV irradiation was approximately 3% lower than that after UV irradiation at 60 °C, indicating that tailoring of enzyme activity was achieved by changing environmental conditions. Apparently, the original enzymatic support material had a great application prospect on enzyme immobilization.
Overall cognitive profiles in patients with GLUT1 Deficiency Syndrome
Authors: De Giorgis Valentina , Masnada Silvia , Varesio Costanza , Chiappedi Matteo A. , Zanaboni Martina , Pasca Ludovica , Filippini Melissa , Macasaet Joyce A. , Valente Marialuisa , Ferraris Cinzia , Tagliabue Anna , Veggiotti Pierangelo
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Glucose Transporter Type I Deficiency Syndrome (GLUT1DS) classical symptoms are seizures, involuntary movements, and cognitive impairment but so far the literature has not devoted much attention to the last.

Methods

In our retrospective study involving 25 patients with established GLUT1DS diagnosis, we describe the cognitive impairment of these patients in detail and their response to the ketogenic diet in terms of cognitive improvement.

Results

We outlined a specific cognitive profile where performance skills were more affected than verbal ones, with prominent deficiencies in visuospatial and visuomotor abilities. We demonstrated the efficacy of ketogenic diet (KD) on cognitive outcome, with particular improvement tin total and verbal IQ; we found that timing of KD introduction was inversely related to IQ outcome: the later the starting of KD, the lower the IQ, more notable nonverbal scale (verbal IQ correlation coefficient −0.634, p‐value = 0.015). We found a significant direct correlation between cognition and CSF/blood glucose ratio values: the higher the ratio, the better the cognitive improvement in response to diet (from T0–baseline evaluation to T1 on average 18 months after introduction of KD‐: TIQ correlation coefficient 0.592, p‐value = 0.26; VIQ correlation coefficient 0.555, p‐value = 0.039). Finally, we demonstrated that a longer duration of treatment is necessary to find an improvement in patients with “severely low ratio.”

Conclusion

Our results were consistent with the hypothesis that timing of the diet introduction is a predictive factor of cognitive outcome in these patients, confirming that earlier initiation of the diet may prevent the onset of all GLUT1DS symptoms: epilepsy, movement disorders, and cognitive impairment.
Role of postoperative radiotherapy in pT3N0 rectal cancer: A risk‐stratification system based on population analyses
Authors: Huang Yun‐xia , Lin Yan‐zong , Li Jin‐luan , Zhang Xue‐qing , Tang Li‐rui , Zhuang Qing‐yang , Lin Fei‐fei , Lin Xi‐jin , Wu Jun‐xin
Published: February 2019

The impact of adjuvant radiotherapy in pT3N0 rectal cancer is controversial. We aimed to determine the risk factors for cancer‐specific survival (CSS) among these patients and to develop a risk‐stratification system to identify which of these patients would benefit from adjuvant radiotherapy. In this review of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database (2010‐2014), we analyzed the data of pT3N0 rectal cancer patients who had not undergone neoadjuvant radiotherapy. Prognostic factors were identified using the Cox proportional hazards model, and risk scores were derived according to the β regression coefficient. A total of 1021 patients were identified from the database search. The overall 5‐year CSS was 86.31%. Multivariate analysis showed that age (P < 0.001), tumor differentiation (P = 0.044), number of nodes resected (P = 0.032), marital status (P = 0.005), and radiotherapy (P = 0.006) were independent prognostic factors for CSS. A risk‐stratification system composed of age, tumor differentiation, and number of nodes resected was generated. Low‐risk patients had better CSS than high‐risk patients (92.13% vs 72.55%, P < 0.001). The addition of radiotherapy to surgery doubled the CSS among the high‐risk patients (42.06% vs 91.26%, P = 0.001) but produced no survival benefit among the low‐risk patients (93.36% vs 96.38%, P = 0.182). Our risk‐stratification model based on age, tumor differentiation, and number of nodes resected predicted the outcomes of pT3N0 rectal cancer patients. This model could help identify patients who may benefit from adjuvant radiotherapy.
A system‐based intervention to reduce Black‐White disparities in the treatment of early stage lung cancer: A pragmatic trial at five cancer centers
Authors: Cykert Samuel , Eng Eugenia , Walker Paul , Manning Matthew A. , Robertson Linda B. , Arya Rohan , Jones Nora S. , Heron Dwight E.
Published: February 2019

Background

Advances in early diagnosis and curative treatment have reduced high mortality rates associated with non‐small cell lung cancer. However, racial disparity in survival persists partly because Black patients receive less curative treatment than White patients.

Methods

We performed a 5‐year pragmatic, trial at five cancer centers using a system‐based intervention. Patients diagnosed with early stage lung cancer, aged 18‐85 were eligible. Intervention components included: (1) a real‐time warning system derived from electronic health records, (2) race‐specific feedback to clinical teams on treatment completion rates, and (3) a nurse navigator. Consented patients were compared to retrospective and concurrent controls. The primary outcome was receipt of curative treatment.

Results

There were 2841 early stage lung cancer patients (16% Black) in the retrospective group and 360 (32% Black) in the intervention group. For the retrospective baseline, crude treatment rates were 78% for White patients vs 69% for Black patients (P < 0.001); difference by race was confirmed by a model adjusted for age, treatment site, cancer stage, gender, comorbid illness, and income‐odds ratio (OR) 0.66 for Black patients (95% CI 0.51‐0.85, P = 0.001). Within the intervention cohort, the crude rate was 96.5% for Black vs 95% for White patients (P = 0.56). Odds ratio for the adjusted analysis was 2.1 (95% CI 0.41‐10.4, P = 0.39) for Black vs White patients. Between group analyses confirmed treatment parity for the intervention.

Conclusion

A system‐based intervention tested in five cancer centers reduced racial gaps and improved care for all.
Recognition of HER2 expression in hepatocellular carcinoma and its significance in postoperative tumor recurrence
Authors: Shi Ji‐Hua , Guo Wen‐Zhi , Jin Yang , Zhang Hua-Peng , Pang Chun , Li Jie , Line Pål‐Dag , Zhang Shui‐Jun
Published: February 2019

Background

The ERBB2 oncogene hypothesis is challenged in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with the conflicting evidences of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression. HER2 could be a new target as a treatment option for HCC as well as tumor recurrence after surgery. HER2 in HCC biology needs further explorations.

Methods

Clinical and mRNA data of HCC patients were obtained from TCGA HCC cohort, GSE89377 and GSE115018. Western Blotting and immunohistochemistry were employed to test expression of HER2, E‐cadherin, and Vimentin. In HepG2, JM1, HER2‐transfected McA cells, and TGF‐β cocultured JM1 cells, HCC biology, including cell survival, proliferation, and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotypes were evaluated.

Results

ERBB2 mRNA amplification was found in HCC datasets, and its expression was downregulated in high grade HCC with a worse overall survival. HER2 overexpression was identified in H4IIE, HepG2, JM1 cells, and 82% (14/17) HCC samples, and tumor stage was correlated with expression of HER2, E‐cadherin, and Vimentin (P < 0.05). Trastuzumab with the high concentrations suppressed proliferation of HER2‐positive hepatoma cells (P < 0.05); in the coculture model to induce EMT of JM1 cells, HER2 expression increased with downregulated E‐cadherin and upregulated Vimentin. Trastuzumab intravenous injection inhibited in vivo tumor size and metastases (P < 0.05). Signal analysis revealed that HER2 functioned through upregulation of β‐catenin and inhibition of SMAD3.

Conclusion

HER2 expression pattern is linked with tumor stage and overall survival; the transforming function of HER2 is found more relevant through β‐catenin and SMAD3. HER2‐targeted treatment is recommended to suppress the HER2‐mediated tumor growth during postoperative liver regeneration.
Optimal Substrate‐Trapping Mutants to Discover Substrates of HDAC1
Authors: Gomes Inosha D. , Pflum Mary Kay H.
Published: January 2019

Histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1) regulates transcription by deacetylating histones. In addition to histones, several non‐histone proteins are HDAC1 substrates, which suggests a role for HDAC1 beyond epigenetics. Unfortunately, the identification of non‐histone substrates has been largely serendipitous, which makes full characterization of HDAC1 functions difficult. To overcome this challenge, inactive “trapping” mutants were recently developed to identify HDAC1 substrates. To optimize substrate trapping, the relative trapping abilities of 17 inactive HDAC1 mutants was assessed. HDAC1 H141A, F150A, and C151A showed strong binding to substrates LSD1 and p53. Interestingly, each mutant preferentially trapped a different substrate. By combining several inactive mutants, the trapping strategy will facilitate the discovery of new HDAC1 substrates and shed light on the variety of HDAC1‐related functions in cell biology.
Numerical Simulation of Sterilization Processes for Shear‐Thinning Food in Taylor‐Couette Flow Systems
Authors: Masuda Hayato , Hubacz Robert , Shimoyamada Makoto , Ohmura Naoto
Published: February 2019

The performance of the Taylor‐Couette flow apparatus as a heat sterilizer is numerically investigated. The destruction of Clostridium botulinum and thiamine (vitamin B1) was selected as model reaction. When Taylor vortices were formed in the annular space, the heat transfer significantly enhanced as compared to the case without vortex flow. As a result, the equivalent lethality calculated from the temperature field increased, which is regarded as a quantum leap. Conversely, the improvement of heat transfer induced destruction of thiamine. These results suggest that there is a trade‐off relationship between the enhancement of heat transfer and the avoidance of thermal destruction of nutritional components. In conclusion, the Taylor‐Couette flow sterilizer has the potential for process intensification in heat sterilization processes.