bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potencial De Adesão Microbiana A Materiais De Uso Hospitalar
Authors: Moraes Francyelle Costa , Câmara Janaína De Jesus Castro , Lima Jaqueline Maria Maranhão Pinto , Costa Monica Maria Rêgo , Silva Alécia Maria Da
Published: November 2024

Espécies microbianas são comumente isoladas em amostras clínicas diversas, sendo responsáveis por uma variedade de infecções no ambiente nosocomial, local em que esses patógenos podem facilmente serem disseminados. A capacidade de expressar fatores de virulência, é responsável por tal condição que está diretamente ligada aos fatores intrínsecos ao microrganismo como a produção de enzimas, capacidade de adesão a superfícies, formação de biofilme e resistência antimicrobiana, agravando o quadro clínico do indivíduo infectado. Desta forma, objetivou-se analisar o potencial de adesão de espécimes microbianas frente a materiais de uso hospitalar. Trata-se de um estudo experimental de natureza descritiva com abordagem quantitativa. Para avaliar o potencial de adesão utilizou-se as seguintes cepas da American Type Culture Collection (ATCC): Staphylococcus aureus (25923), Klebsiella pneumonial (700603), Escherichia coli (25922), Salmonella typhi (14024), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (27853), Candida albicans(14024), Candida krusei (6258), Candida parapsilosis (22019). As suspensões bacterianas foram preparadas em salina 0,9% e padronizadas de acordo com a turbidez 0,5 da escala de MacFarland. Para a produção dos cupons de prova, foram utilizadas sondas vesicais de látex siliconizado, inox e PVC, para a obtenção fragmentos com 0.5 mm de diâmetro. Cada corpo de prova foi mantido, separadamente, em tubos contendo 5 mL de caldo BHI (previamente esterilizados), onde adicionou-se 0,1 mL da suspensão bacteriana e incubou-se em estufa a 37ºC em tempos distintos (1h 30 min e 3h).Posteriormente, os corpos de prova foram lavados e transferidos para tubos com 5 ml de solução salina para serem agitados em Vórtex . Em seguida retirou-se 0.1ml de cada suspensão agitada, semeou-se em placas com meio Ágar Mueller Hinton e Ágar Sabouraund e incubou-se em estufa bacteriológica a 37ºC/24h para proceder com a contagem das Unidades Formadoras de Colônia (UFC). Após a metodologia empregada, constatou-se que o melhor tempo para se avaliar a capacidade de adesão é após 3h de experimento, o látex siliconizado e o inox representaram respectivamente o material mais e menos suscetível a adesão das espécimes avaliadas. C. albicans e P. aeruginosa apresentaram maior afinidade para adesão ao PVC, alcançando 201 e 403 UFC, concomitantemente. Contudo, o potencial de adesão aos materiais de uso hospitalar foi evidenciado com divergências entre as espécimes e tempo de exposição. Assim, enfatiza-se a necessidade de manutenção de processo de higiene e desinfecção eficazes para minimizar ricos de contaminação, bem como conhecer os tipos de materiais mais vulneráveis ao referido fator de virulência para melhor escolher os dispositivos a serem utilizados no paciente
Singular Therapeutic Plan: Strategies For The Well-Being Of The Elderly In Primary Care
Authors: Alencar Elivan Da Silva , Siqueira Gessika Rafaella Sousa , Sousa Francisco Hermes Ribeiro De , Mazulo Maria Eduarda Brito , Martins Luciane Assunção
Published: November 2024

Background: Elderly health faces challenges due to increased life expectancy and the prevalence of chronic diseases. In this scenario, the Singular Therapeutic Project (PTS) emerges as an innovative strategy, initially developed in mental health, but now applied in geriatrics. The PTS promotes a personalized care plan, created in collaboration with the elderly person, their family and an interdisciplinary team, focusing on the needs This approach not only improves adherence to treatment, but also promotes autonomy and protagonism, essential for quality of life in old age. Aim: This experience report aims to describe the practical learning experience of medical students in the implementation of a STP for an elderly patient in primary health care, highlighting the impact on medical care and education. Experience Report: During the second semester of 2024, medical students had the opportunity to experience the practice of the Singular Therapeutic Project (PTS) in a real context, through home visits in the territory of Primary Health Care at the Basic Health Unit (UBS) Riozinho in the municipality of Bragança-PA. During the home visit to the patient's home, several instruments were applied for a more complete evaluation of both the elderly woman and her caregiver, her husband, 83 years old. Among these tools, the Adult Stress Symptom Inventory (LIPP) and the Zarit Caregiver Burden Interview (ZBI) scale were used to assess caregiver stress and burden. Conclusion: The participation of medical students in the construction of the Singular Therapeutic Plan (PTS) in primary health care is an essential training experience that significantly enriches the training of future professionals.
O Benefício Da Suplementação Em Paciente Cardiopata Pré-Cirúrgico
Authors: Souza Ester Vinhote De , Araújo Celme barroncas Passos De , Silva Tayrel Dos Anjos , Soledade Cássia Kellen Carvalho , Itassucê Álvaro , Santos João Pedro Cardozo Dos
Published: November 2024

Background:A suplementação nutricional pré-cirúrgica tem se mostrado benéfica em pacientes cardiopatas, proporcionando uma série de vantagens durante o período perioperatório. A desnutrição é uma condição comum em pacientes cardíacos, podendo estar associada a um maior risco de complicações e piora no prognóstico após a cirurgia cardíaca. Materials and Methods:Será realizado um estudo prospectivo, randomizado e controlado, envolvendo pacientes cardiopatas pré-cirúrgicos. Os critérios de inclusão serão: indivíduos com doença cardiovascular estável, agendados para cirurgia cardíaca e que não tenham recebido suplementação nutricional nos últimos três meses. Estudos têm demonstrado que a suplementação nutricional, principalmente através de nutrição enteral e/ou oral, pode melhorar o estado nutricional desses pacientes. Além disso, essas intervenções têm sido associadas a uma redução na incidência de complicações pós-operatórias, tais como infecções, disfunção renal, arritmias e insuficiência cardíaca. Results:Essas descobertas apóiam a implementação da suplementação nutricional como uma estratégia clínica eficaz para melhorar a qualidade de vida e reduzir complicações em pacientes cardíacos pré-cirúrgicos. No entanto, são necessários estudos adicionais para validar esses resultados e avaliar possíveis efeitos adversos da suplementação nutricional em longo prazo. Dessa forma, a suplementação pré-cirúrgica pode contribuir para uma recuperação mais rápida e eficiente do paciente. Além disso, a suplementação nutricional pode melhorar a tolerância ao esforço físico, diminuindo a fadiga e melhorando a capacidade funcional do paciente, o que pode ser especialmente relevante em pacientes cardiopatas pré-cirúrgicos. Conclusion:No entanto, é importante destacar que a suplementação nutricional deve ser individualizada e baseada nas necessidades específicas de cada paciente. É fundamental o envolvimento de uma equipe multidisciplinar, composta por médicos, nutricionistas e enfermeiros, para avaliar e monitorar a resposta do paciente à suplementação e realizar os ajustes necessários.
Management Of Iatrogenic Subclavian Artery Injury Using Balloon Tamponade: A Case Report
Authors: Neoh SH , Gan YY , Hardin R. , Matthew Susan W. , Yeat CM , Balakrishnan D.
Published: November 2024

Introduction: Iatrogenic injury to major vessel during central venous catheter insertion is a commonly encountered complication. Different approaches have been described to repair the injured vessel, including open and endovascular technique. Method: We observed a case involving a 47-year-old lady with right subclavian artery injury and hemopneumothorax after insertion of central venous catheter for inotropic support. Result: CT Angiography of the thorax showed malposition of the catheter, piercing the right subclavian artery, with its distal tip within the pleural space at the level of posterior right 7th rib. Digital subtracted angiography (DSA) showed contrast extravasation from proximal right subclavian artery. Temporary balloon tamponade was performed, and the catheter was removed at the same setting. Post balloon tamponade angiogram confirmed no contrast extravasation. Conclusion: Iatrogenic injury to the subclavian artery is rare. Our case demonstrates that the approach of using a balloon to achieve tamponade effect is effective in achieving hemostasis compared to open arterial repair or stenting
Participação Comunitária Na Promoção Da Vacinação: Estratégias Locais Para Aumentar A Cobertura Vacinal Em Regiões Subatendidas
Authors: Lima Agnaldo Braga , Chiacchio Simon Skarabone Rodrigues , Ribeiro Elidiane De Carvalho , Maurício Alex Aryel Ribas , Lima Odaíze Do Socorro Ferreira Cavalcante
Published: November 2024

A participação comunitária na promoção da vacinação tem se mostrado uma estratégia essencial para aumentar a cobertura vacinal, especialmente em regiões subatendidas. O envolvimento das comunidades locais no processo de vacinação, seja através de campanhas educativas, comunicação efetiva ou parcerias com líderes comunitários, desempenha um papel fundamental na superação das barreiras ao acesso e aceitação das vacinas. Este estudo tem como objetivo explorar as principais estratégias utilizadas para engajar comunidades em regiões subatendidas, analisando o impacto dessas iniciativas na melhoria dos índices de vacinação. Regiões subatendidas, caracterizadas por dificuldades de acesso a serviços de saúde, baixa infraestrutura e, frequentemente, desconfiança em relação aos programas de saúde pública, enfrentam desafios significativos para alcançar coberturas vacinais ideais. Nesse contexto, as iniciativas locais que envolvem a participação
Effective Yoga Asanas For Reducing Anxiety Symptoms After COVID-19
Authors: Singh Dr. Moirangthem Bindyashwor
Published: November 2024

The purpose of the study was to find the effect of specific yoga asanas on the anxiety levels of individuals who have recovered from COVID-19. A total of 25 recovered COVID-19 patients, both male and female, aged 18 years and older, experiencing mild to severe anxiety were selected as subjects based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A) was administered to evaluate the anxiety levels of the individuals. A statistical technique of descriptive and paired sample t test was employed and tested at a 0.05 level of confidence. The finding showed a statistically significant difference in the before and after intervention program on anxiety levels
Reliability Of Maximum Heart Rate Estimation Equations In Athletes In The Field Football Base Category
Authors: . .
Published: November 2024

The objective of this study was to verify the reliability of the HRmax prediction equations proposed by Fox, Tanaka and Nikolaidis in field football athletes who belong to the youth categories of a club in the first division of Brazilian league. One hundred and sixty-four players, aged between 14 and 20, took part in this study. In order to determine the athletes' HRmax (bpm), Yo-Yo Endurance Test Level 1 was used and defined as the highest value achieved during the test. Data were expressed as mean, standard deviation (SD) of the mean, minimum and maximum values.Independent Student's t-test and Pearson's correlation coefficient were used in statistical analyses. The results showed that none of the three available equations (Fox, Tanaka and Nikolaidis) provide accurate HRmax values in a sample of youth football players, underestimating or overestimating HRmax values. The equation that provided the most accurate HRmax was the Nikolaidis equation. This result is probably due to the fact that this equation was developed based on an example of a football player.
Pedestrian Detection Systems
Authors: López Antonio M.
Published: November 2018

Pedestrian detection is a highly relevant topic for both advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving. In this entry, we review the ideas behind pedestrian detection systems from the point of view of perception based on computer vision and machine learning.
Surface Modification of Polymers: Methods and Applications
Authors: Nemani Srinivasa Kartik , Annavarapu Rama Kishore , Mohammadian Behrouz , Raiyan Asif , Heil Jamie , Haque Md. Ashraful , Abdelaal Ahmed , Sojoudi Hossein
Published: November 2018

Low cost, controlled crystallinity, chemical, and mechanical stability enable application of polymers in energy, water, electronics, and biomedical industries. Recent studies have shown that tailoring surface properties of polymers impacts their durability and functionality in these applications. However, the functionality and performance of polymer‐based devices and systems are greatly affected by the modification method and the process parameters, highlighting the need for understanding these methods and their mechanisms of operation in detail. The selection of the modification method invariably decides the properties enhanced in the polymer. In this review, various polymer surface modification treatments are discussed. These methods are categorized into physical, chemical, thermal, and optical ways, while illustrating their advantages and disadvantages. This review also explores the surface modification of polymers by patterning which encompasses one or more surface treatment methods. An application‐oriented study is presented discussing the relative importance of a method pertaining to a specific field of end‐application.
Detection of CTC Clusters and a Dedifferentiated RNA‐Expression Survival Signature in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kozminsky Molly , Fouladdel Shamileh , Chung Jae‐Seung , Wang Yugang , Smith David C. , Alva Ajjai , Azizi Ebrahim , Morgan Todd , Nagrath Sunitha
Published: November 2018

Rates of progression and treatment response in advanced prostate cancer are highly variable, necessitating non‐invasive methods to assess the molecular characteristics of these tumors in real time. The unique potential of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) to serve as a clinically useful liquid biomarker is due to their ability to inform via both enumeration and RNA expression. A microfluidic graphene oxide‐based device (GO Chip) is used to isolate CTCs and CTC clusters from the whole blood of 41 men with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer. Additionally, the expression of 96 genes of interest is determined by RT‐qPCR. Multivariate analyses are conducted to determine the genes most closely associated with overall survival, PSA progression, and radioclinical progression. A preliminary signature, comprising high expression of stemness genes and low expression of epithelial and mesenchymal genes, potentially implicates an undifferentiated CTC phenotype as a marker of poor prognosis in this setting.
Deep learning‐based surrogate modeling and optimization for microalgal biofuel production and photobioreactor design
Authors: del Rio‐Chanona Ehecatl Antonio , Wagner Jonathan L. , Ali Haider , Fiorelli Fabio , Zhang Dongda , Hellgardt Klaus
Published: November 2018

Identifying optimal photobioreactor configurations and process operating conditions is critical to industrialize microalgae‐derived biorenewables. Traditionally, this was addressed by testing numerous design scenarios from integrated physical models coupling computational fluid dynamics and kinetic modeling. However, this approach presents computational intractability and numerical instabilities when simulating large‐scale systems, causing time‐intensive computing efforts and infeasibility in mathematical optimization. Therefore, we propose an innovative data‐driven surrogate modeling framework, which considerably reduces computing time from months to days by exploiting state‐of‐the‐art deep learning technology. The framework built upon a few simulated results from the physical model to learn the sophisticated hydrodynamic and biochemical kinetic mechanisms; then adopts a hybrid stochastic optimization algorithm to explore untested processes and find optimal solutions. Through verification, this framework was demonstrated to have comparable accuracy to the physical model. Moreover, multi‐objective optimization was incorporated to generate a Pareto‐frontier for decision‐making, advancing its applications in complex biosystems modeling and optimization. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 65: 915–923, 2019
In vitro characteristics of an airway barrier‐disrupting factor secreted by Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Murphy Jae , Ramezanpour Mahnaz , Drilling Amanda , Roscioli Eugene , Psaltis Alkis James , Wormald Peter‐John , Vreugde Sarah
Published: November 2018

Background

Staphylococcus aureus is a major contributor to the pathophysiology of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Previous research has shown that S. aureus–secreted products disrupt the airway barrier.

Methods

S. aureus ATCC 13565 and 25923 strains were grown at exponential, postexponential, and stationary phases. Microbial conditioned media (CM) was collected from the cultures and ultrafiltered (UF). Liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐ESI‐MS/MS) was performed on the UF‐CM. UF‐CM was subjected to heat and protease treatment, size fractionation, and ultracentrifugation (UC) separation. Human nasal epithelial cells grown at air‐liquid interface (HNEC‐ALI) cultures were exposed to purified alpha hemolysin (Hla), staphylococcal enterotoxin A (SEA), lipoteichoic acid (LTA), and UF‐CM. Barrier function outcomes were measured by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and apparent permeability (Papp). UC fraction exposed cultures were subjected to immunofluorescence microscopy for tight junction (TJ) protein zonula occludens‐1 (ZO‐1).

Results

LC‐ESI‐MS/MS identified 107 proteins, with Hla being most abundant. Hla, SEA, and LTA did not alter the HNEC‐ALI barrier as measured by TEER or Papp. Barrier disruption caused by UF‐CM peaked in the postexponential phase, was sensitive to heat and protease treatment, >30‐kDa in size, and enriched in the UC fraction. HNEC‐ALI exposed to UF‐CM and UC demonstrated loss of ZO‐1 localization.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the S. aureus factor responsible for TJ disruption in HNEC‐ALI cultures is either a protein‐macromolecule or a combination of secreted factors. The product is enriched in the UC fraction, suggesting it is associated with large structures such as membrane components or vesicles.
PHBV/TPU/cellulose compounds for compostable injection molded parts with improved thermal and mechanical performance
Authors: Sánchez‐Safont Estefanía Lidón , Arrillaga Alex , Anakabe Jon , Gamez‐Perez Jose , Cabedo Luis
Published: November 2018

Poly(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐valerate) (PHBV) is a biopolymer that has gained a lot of attention because of its biodegradability, good thermal resistance, and balanced mechanical properties with respect to some commodity plastics. However, it presents two big limitations that hinder its potential application in replacing plastics for rigid injected parts: high cost and low toughness. Aiming at overcoming these limitations, the use of two additives in a PHBV matrix was explored: thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) as an impact modifier and cellulose as reinforcing filler. Compounds of PHBV with different TPUs and cellulose contents were prepared by extrusion and, subsequently, injection molding. The morphology, thermal, and mechanical properties of the so‐obtained materials were analyzed. Also, the biodisintegrability under standard composting conditions of the studied compositions was also assessed. The results of this work show that the obtained PHBV/TPU/cellulose compounds are biodisintegrable and show balanced properties in terms of thermal resistance–stiffness–toughness. These properties point these compounds as potential candidates to replace commodities in rigid part applications that require biodisintegration in their end‐of‐life, being able to be processed in a conventional injection molding industrial facility. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47257.
Phase separation behavior of poly(ethylene terephthalate)/(trifluoroacetic acid/dichloromethane)/water system for wet phase inversion membrane preparation
Authors: Cadore Ígor Renz , Ambrosi Alan , Cardozo Nilo Sérgio Medeiros , Tessaro Isabel Cristina
Published: November 2018

Polymeric membrane fabrication by the phase inversion technique requires substantial thermodynamics knowledge of the studied system. The objective of this work is to investigate the phase separation behavior of the poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)/[trifluoroacetic acid + dichloromethane (DCM)]/water system by the titulometric method, and evaluate the system characteristics aiming at membrane fabrication by phase inversion technique. The results show that the amount of nonsolvent at the cloud point decreases as the amount of DCM increases in the polymeric solution. The cloud point compositions are well‐fitted to the linearized cloud‐point curve for all studied systems, confirming that they have the required characteristics of a membrane forming system. The fabrication by wet phase inversion technique provides membranes with porous structure, thin top layer and the addition of DCM in PET casting solutions suppress the macrovoid formation. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2019, 136, 47263.
Maternal immune activation, central nervous system development and behavioral phenotypes
Authors: Minakova Elena , Warner Barbara B.
Published: November 2018

Maternal immune activation (MIA) refers to a maternal immune system triggered by infectious or infectious‐like stimuli. A cascade of cytokines and immunologic alterations are transmitted to the fetus, resulting in adverse phenotypes most notably in the central nervous system. Epidemiologic studies implicate maternal infections in a variety of neuropsychiatric disorders, most commonly autism spectrum disorders and schizophrenia. In animal models, MIA causes neurochemical and anatomic changes in the brain that correspond to those found in humans with the disorders. As our understanding of the interactions between environment, genetics, and immune system grows, the role of alternative, noninfectious risk factors, such as prenatal stress, obesity, and the gut microbiome also becomes clearer. This review considers how infectious and noninfectious etiologies activate the maternal immune system. Their impact on fetal programming and neuropsychiatric disorders in offspring is examined in the context of human and animal studies.
Long non‐coding RNA H19 promotes TDRG1 expression and cisplatin resistance by sequestering miRNA‐106b‐5p in seminoma
Authors: Wei Jingchao , Gan Yu , Peng Dongyi , Jiang Xianzhen , Kitazawa Riko , Xiang Yali , Dai Yingbo , Tang Yuxin , Yang Jianfu
Published: November 2018

The role of TDRG1 in tumorigenesis and the progression of seminoma, as well as its role in regulating chemosensitivity of seminoma to cisplatin through the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway, has been previously defined. However, the detailed mechanism underlying TDRG1 expression and concomitant chemoresistance conditions are unknown. Furthermore, it has been reported that non‐protein‐coding RNAs play an important role in a variety of vital processes including cellular chemosensitivity. However, the role of non‐protein‐coding RNAs in regulating the chemosensitivity of seminoma remains unknown. In this study, using microarray analysis, we found that long non‐coding RNA H19 was upregulated while miRNA‐106b‐5p was downregulated in an established cisplatin‐resistant TCam‐2 cell line. Moreover, H19 acts as a miRNA‐106b‐5p sponge and thus impairs the function of miRNA‐106b‐5p on its target gene, TDRG1. Based on these findings, we propose that H19 promotes the expression of TDRG1 by sequestering miRNA‐106b‐5p and uses this mechanism to facilitate cell survival in cisplatin‐based chemotherapeutic conditions. These findings elucidate the mechanisms, at least partially, applied to deregulate TDRG1 and cisplatin sensitivity, and may provide new therapeutic possibilities for chemoresistant seminoma.
Synthesis and Anti‐HIV Activity of Guanine Modified Fluorinated Acyclic Nucleoside Phosphonate Derivatives
Authors: Luo Min , Groaz Elisabetta , De Jonghe Steven , Schols Dominique , Herdewijn Piet
Published: November 2018

The preparation of an unprecedented series of nucleobase modified 3‐fluoro‐2‐(phosphonomethoxy)propyl (FPMP) acyclic nucleosides in both their (R) and (S) enantiomerically pure forms is described. The synthesis focuses on a Mitsunobu alkylation reaction to construct the C−N(9) bond between a chiral fluorinated side‐chain residue and 6‐ or 7‐modified guanine analogs. Prodrugs of FPMP‐7‐deazaguanine were also synthesized by derivatization of the corresponding phosphonic acid functionality with (bis)diamyl aspartate amidate groups, leading to moderate activity against human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV‐1).
Recovery of myocardial perfusion after percutaneous coronary intervention of chronic total occlusions is comparable to hemodynamically significant non‐occlusive lesions
Authors: Schumacher Stefan P. , Driessen Roel S. , Stuijfzand Wijnand J. , Raijmakers Pieter G. , Danad Ibrahim , Dens Jo , Spratt James C. , Hanratty Colm G. , Walsh Simon J. , Boellaard Ronald , van Rossum Albert C. , Opolski Maksymilian P. , Nap Alexander , Knaapen Paul
Published: November 2018

Background

The benefits of chronic coronary total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are being questioned. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of CTO PCI on absolute myocardial perfusion, as compared with PCI of hemodynamically significant non‐CTO lesions.

Methods

Consecutive patients with a preserved left ventricular ejection fraction (≥50%) and a CTO or non‐CTO lesion, in whom [15O]H2O positron emission tomography was performed prior and after successful PCI, were included. Change in quantitative (hyperemic) myocardial blood flow (MBF), coronary flow reserve (CFR) and perfusion defect size (in myocardial segments) were compared between CTOs and non‐CTO lesions.

Results

In total 92 patients with a CTO and 31 patients with a non‐CTO lesion were included. CTOs induced larger perfusion defect sizes (4.51 ± 1.69 vs. 3.23 ± 2.38 segments, P < 0.01) with lower hyperemic MBF (1.30 ± 0.37 vs. 1.58 ± 0.62 mL·min−1·g−1, P < 0.01) and similarly impaired CFR (1.66 ± 0.75 vs. 1.89 ± 0.77, P = 0.17) compared with non‐CTO lesions. After PCI both hyperemic MBF and CFR increased similarly between groups (P = 0.57 and 0.35) to normal ranges with higher hyperemic MBF values in non‐CTO compared with CTO (2.89 ± 0.94 vs. 2.48 ± 0.73 mL·min−1·g−1, P = 0.03). Perfusion defect sizes decreased similarly after CTO PCI and non‐CTO PCI (P = 0.14), leading to small residual defect sizes in both groups (1.15 ± 1.44 vs. 0.61 ± 1.45 segments, P = 0.054).

Conclusions

Myocardial perfusion findings are slightly more hampered in patients with a CTO before and after PCI. Percutaneous revascularization of CTOs, however, improves absolute myocardial perfusion similarly to PCI of hemodynamically significant non‐CTO lesions, leading to satisfying results.
Hepaticocholecystic duct: A pitfall of cholecystectomy
Authors: Laurenzi Andrea , Allard Marc‐Antoine , Vibert Eric
Published: November 2018

Key Clinical Message

The anatomical variations of accessory biliary ducts account for up to 2% of the population. The two types of ducts are the: subvescical and hepaticocholecystic. The knowledge of such variations is extremely important during cholecystectomy in order to avoid possible postoperative complications such as biliary injury or choleperitoneum.
A Supramolecular Coordination‐Polymer‐Derived Electrocatalyst for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhang Chi , Zhang Chen , Xie Yunchao , Su Jheng‐Wun , He Xiaoqing , Demaree John D. , Griep Mark H. , Atwood Jerry L. , Lin Jian
Published: November 2018

An iron oxide decorated nickel iron alloy nanoparticle/porous graphene hybrid exhibits high electrocatalytic activity and excellent durability toward oxygen evolution reaction (OER). It displays a low overpotential of 274 mV at 10 mA cm−2, and low Tafel slope of 37 mV dec−1, showing a superior performance to the state‐of‐the‐art RuO2 OER electrocatalyst.
Nusselt number correlation for a jacketed stirred tank using computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Daza Silvia Araujo , Prada Ronald Jaimes , Nunhez José R. , Castilho Guilherme J.
Published: November 2018

The heat exchange in stirred tanks occurs mainly due to the impeller rotation and overall circulation of the fluid that promotes a more effective heat transfer between fluid and heat transfer surfaces. The type of impeller used and the size of the vessel (that affects the relation heat transfer area and volume of the vessel) have significant effects on the heat transfer. The heat transfer coefficient is very much dependent on the impeller and the speed of rotation. Empirical correlations are usually used to estimate the process side heat transfer coefficient. However, its dependence on the geometrical parameters restricts the use of those correlations to specific tank configurations. In this respect, the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) has recently emerged as an alternative to experimental studies. The procedure proved to be faster and lower cost, and the results proved to be accurate. In this study, CFD was applied to obtain a Nusselt number correlation for a jacketed stirred tank equipped with a six‐blade Rushton turbine impeller. The Nusselt number correlation obtained from the simulated model agrees with experimental data providing a reliable representation of the heat transfer in the tank.
Antibiotic Inhibition on Anaerobic Digestion of Animal Manure and Controlling Strategies: A Short Review
Authors: Yang Yuan , Huang Wenli , Huang Weiwei
Published: November 2018

Despite the efficacy of anaerobic digestion (AD) in stabilizing animal wastes as well as alleviating global warming associated with natural decomposition of animal manure, the process is susceptible to antibiotics that commonly exist in animal manure. Although antibiotics have served veterinary purposes in large quantities for decades, knowledge concerning their impacts on methane production during AD of animal manure is still in its infancy. Antibiotics used in animal practice are recognized as one of the major contributors to the development of resistant pathogens. Their fate and long‐term environmental impacts following land application or disposal of the animal manure into the aquatic environment, with resistance development and associated risks on human health as the primary focus, are well reviewed in many previous publications. To date, to the best of our knowledge, few efforts are made on reviewing the impacts of antibiotics on AD of animal manure and the mitigation strategies. In this review, detailed summaries of earlier and recent works conducted on the inhibition of antibiotics on AD of animal manure are presented, with special interest directed toward available and new controlling strategies in terms of technical and regulatory aspects. Finally, in view of process balance and successive operation, further research should be carried out to gain insight into dynamic interactions of antibiotics and other commonly seen coexistent inhibitors/intermediates in the AD systems.
A Two‐Step Multicomponent Synthetic Approach and Anti‐inflammatory Evaluation of N‐Substituted 2‐Oxopyrazines
Authors: Hernández‐Vázquez Eduardo , Chávez‐Riveros Alejandra , Nieto‐Camacho Antonio , Miranda Luis D.
Published: November 2018

Inflammation is widely reported as a main factor for the development of chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and even metabolic syndrome. Thus, the search for novel anti‐inflammatory compounds is required. Herein we describe the synthesis of a collection of peptidic pyrazinones by a convenient approach involving a multicomponent isocyanide‐based reaction followed by a tandem deprotection/oxidative cyclization step. This series of compounds were tested for their potential anti‐inflammatory capacity in an in vivo murine model, and four compounds were identified to inhibit tetradecanoylphorbol acetate (TPA)‐induced edema by more than 75 %. The two most active compounds, N‐benzyl‐2‐(4‐hydroxy‐3,5‐dimethoxyphenyl)‐2‐[2‐oxopyrazin‐1(2H)‐yl]acetamide (10 o) and N‐cyclohexyl‐2‐[2‐oxopyrazin‐1(2H)‐yl]‐2‐[4‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl]acetamide (10 x), with methyl and trifluoromethyl groups, were also able to decrease myeloperoxidase activity and leukocyte infiltration. Moreover, 10 x decreased the thickness of TPA‐treated mouse ears, as observed in histological analysis of the tissues.
B7 Liquid Crystal Filament Growth in Presence of Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Stamatoiu O. , Dierking I.
Published: November 2018

Liquid crystal phases formed from bent‐core mesogens have attracted much interest of the liquid crystal research community, due to the manifestation of chirality effects from achiral molecules. One of the most elusive of the bent‐core phases is the B7 phase, which at its early stage often forms in a helical filament fashion. We investigate the growth of such filaments in the presence of single‐walled nanotubes to elucidate possible effects on the growth dynamics and helicity of B7 helical filaments. It is found that the filament width slightly decreases in comparison to the neat B7 material, suggesting a more tightly bound structure around the nanotubes, with the nanotubes likely acting as the core of the helical filament. No effects on pitch or periodicity of the helical superstructure is observed. The filament growth velocity quickly decreases as nanotubes are added to the B7 phase, indicating that a more tightly bound structure needs a longer time of formation. An observed buckling instability is of interest as a microscopic example for the study of nonlinear dynamics theories of filaments. The present investigation is thus of general importance for nanoparticle directed growth of filaments, which has applications in biomolecular growth and high tensile strength fibres.
Basic Salt‐Lake Brine: An Efficient Catalyst for the Transformation of CO2 into Quinazoline‐2,4(1 H,3 H)‐diones
Authors: Hu Jiayin , Chen Shangqing , Guo Yafei , Li Long , Deng Tianlong
Published: November 2018

The efficient transformation of CO2 into value‐added chemicals with green, abundant, and cheap catalysts is an interesting and challenging topic in both green and sustainable chemistry. In this study, a series of salt‐lake brines were used for the first time to catalyze the reaction of CO2 and a broad range of 2‐aminobenzonitriles to form the corresponding quinazoline‐2,4(1 H,3 H)‐diones. It was found that the abundant, available, and inexpensive Zhabuye basic salt‐lake brine could efficiently promote the reaction of 2‐aminobenzonitriles under low pressure of CO2. Very high yields of value‐added products were obtained. Further studies indicated that the basic carbonate and borate ions in the brine play key roles in accelerating the reactions.
Characterization of a spark discharge for dust cloud ignition
Authors: Sankhé Mamadou , Bernard Stéphane , Wartel Maxime , Pellerin Stéphane , Gillard Philippe
Published: November 2018

Spark discharges are widely used to ignite flammable gases, liquids, or dust. For a better understanding of the interaction between the spark discharge and the ignited media (gas, liquid, or dust), it is necessary to measure some key parameters of the spark, especially the space‐time variation of its temperature. Determination of temperature gradients would allow a more precise and realistic simulation of the ignition process. In fact, electrons and particles in the discharge zone get their energy with increasing temperature before interacting with particles of the media to ignite the flame. In this study, optical emission spectroscopy of the spark discharge between two tungsten electrodes was performed. Assuming excitation balance between the WI lines, a Boltzmann plot after an Abel inversion gives the excitation temperature and its space‐time variation. For a 100‐μs time discharge, at 80‐μs delay, we measured 7,000 K at the centre of the column zone, 4,100 K at the centre of the cathode zone, and 3,600 K at the centre of the anode zone. Assuming a singly ionized tungsten plasma and excitation equilibrium, we used also the Saha–Boltzmann equation to calculate the plasma composition. The electron density at the column zone was about 3 × 1017 cm−3, which is two orders of magnitude higher than in the rest of the spark.
PowerPoints yes, teaching notes no
Authors: Masinter Michael R.
Published: November 2018

Students with disabilities often seek as accommodations copies of a professor's PowerPoint slides and teaching notes. Providing accessible copies of PowerPoint slides often is an appropriate academic adjustment, but providing copies of a teacher's teaching notes is not unless the teacher makes them available to the class as a whole.
Killer whales (Orcinus orca) in Iceland show weak genetic structure among diverse isotopic signatures and observed movement patterns
Authors: Tavares Sara B. , Samarra Filipa I. P. , Pascoal Sonia , Graves Jeff A. , Miller Patrick J. O.
Published: November 2018

Local adaption through ecological niche specialization can lead to genetic structure between and within populations. In the Northeast Pacific, killer whales (Orcinus orca) of the same population have uniform specialized diets that are non‐overlapping with other sympatric, genetically divergent, and socially isolated killer whale ecotypes. However, killer whales in Iceland show intrapopulation variation of isotopic niches and observed movement patterns: some individuals appear to specialize on herring and follow it year‐round while others feed upon herring only seasonally or opportunistically. We investigated genetic differentiation among Icelandic killer whales with different isotopic signatures and observed movement patterns. This information is key for management and conservation purposes but also for better understanding how niche specialization drives genetic differentiation. Photo‐identified individuals (N = 61) were genotyped for 22 microsatellites and a 611 bp portion of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region. Photo‐identification of individuals allowed linkage of genetic data to existing data on individual isotopic niche, observed movement patterns, and social associations. Population subdivision into three genetic units was supported by a discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC). Genetic clustering corresponded to the distribution of isotopic signatures, mtDNA haplotypes, and observed movement patterns, but genetic units were not socially segregated. Genetic differentiation was weak (FST < 0.1), suggesting ongoing gene flow or recent separation of the genetic units. Our results show that killer whales in Iceland are not as genetically differentiated, ecologically discrete, or socially isolated as the Northeast Pacific prey‐specialized killer whales. If any process of ecological divergence and niche specialization is taking place among killer whales in Iceland, it is likely at a very early stage and has not led to the patterns observed in the Northeast Pacific.
Pyroaerobiology: the aerosolization and transport of viable microbial life by wildland fire
Authors: Kobziar Leda N. , Pingree Melissa R. A. , Larson Heather , Dreaden Tyler J. , Green Shelby , Smith Jason A.
Published: November 2018

The field of aerobiology is expanding due to a recognition of the diversity of roles microbes play in both terrestrial and atmospheric ecology. Smoke from global biomass burning has had significant and widespread ecological and human health consequences, but the living component of smoke has received little attention. Microbes aerosolized and transported by wildland fire may have profound effects on atmospheric and environmental factors, acting as nuclei for ice condensation, transporting pathogens or symbionts, and otherwise influencing ecosystems and human populations downwind. The potential for smoke to aerosolize and transport viable microbes is a virtually blank piece of the microbial biogeography puzzle with far‐reaching implications. This study characterized the aerosolization of viable microbes via wildland fire smoke from burns in contrasting coniferous forests. Seventy aerosolized microbial morphotypes were recovered, and of these, a subset was identified using DNA analysis which revealed both pathogenic and non‐pathogenic fungal species. Overall microbial colony‐forming units decreased with increasing distance from smoke source, driven by bacterial abundance. Organisms were more abundant in smoke derived from mechanically treated fuels than intact forest floors and were most abundant in smoke from a dry, biennially burned Pinus palustris sandhill forest in Florida. Our findings of smoke‐transported viable microbes have implications for ecosystem restoration/conservation, global biodiversity, meteorology, and human health.
Epilepsy in tuberous sclerosis complex: Findings from the TOSCA Study
Authors: Nabbout Rima , Belousova Elena , Benedik Mirjana P. , Carter Tom , Cottin Vincent , Curatolo Paolo , Dahlin Maria , D´Amato Lisa , d'Augères Guillaume Beaure , de Vries Petrus J. , Ferreira José C. , Feucht Martha , Fladrowski Carla , Hertzberg Christoph , Jozwiak Sergiusz , Lawson John A. , Macaya Alfons , Marques Ruben , O'Callaghan Finbar , Qin Jiong , Sander Valentin , Sauter Matthias , Shah Seema , Takahashi Yukitoshi , Touraine Renaud , Youroukos Sotiris , Zonnenberg Bernard , Jansen Anna , Kingswood John C. ,   the TOSCA Consortium and TOSCA Investigators
Published: November 2018

Objective

To present the baseline data of the international TuberOus SClerosis registry to increase disease Awareness (TOSCA) with emphasis on the characteristics of epilepsies associated with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC).

Methods

Retrospective and prospective patients’ data on all aspects of TSC were collected from multiple countries worldwide. Epilepsy variables included seizure type, age at onset, type of treatment, and treatment outcomes and association with genotype, seizures control, and intellectual disability. As for noninterventional registries, the study protocol did not specify any particular clinical instruments, laboratory investigations, or intervention. Evaluations included those required for diagnosis and management following local best practice.

Results

Epilepsy was reported in 83.6% of patients (1852/2216) at baseline; 38.9% presented with infantile spasms and 67.5% with focal seizures. The mean age at diagnosis of infantile spasms was 0.4 year (median <1 year; range <1‐30 years) and at diagnosis of focal seizures was 2.7 years (median 1 year; range <1‐66 years). A total of 1469 patients (79.3%) were diagnosed with epilepsy <2 years. The rate of infantile spasms was higher in patients with a TSC2 mutation than in patients with a TSC1 mutation (47.3% vs 23%). ɣ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic drugs were the most common treatment modality for both infantile spasms (78.7%) and focal seizures (65.5%). Infantile spasms and focal seizures were controlled in 76.3% and 58.2% of patients, respectively. Control of seizures was associated with lower rates of intellectual disability in both groups.

Significance

This registry reports the largest international cohort of patients with TSC. Findings confirmed the typical onset pattern of infantile spasms and other focal seizures in the first 2 years of life, and the high rates of infantile spasms in patients with TSC2 mutation. Our results underscored the occurrence of focal seizures at all ages, including an onset that preceded emergence of infantile spasms. Seizure control was shown to be associated with lower rates of intellectual disability but did not preclude the presence of intellectual disability.
DNA barcoding analysis of Gymnotus species in two Neotropical river basins
Authors: Soria Thatiana V. , Fabrin Thomaz M. C. , Diamante Nathália A. , Mota Thaís F. M. , de Oliveira Isadora J. , de Oliveira Alessandra V. , da Graça Weferson J. , Prioli Sônia M. A. P. , Prioli Alberto J.
Published: November 2018

Gymnotus is the most species rich genus of electric fish in the Neotropical region. Recently, a previously unknown diversity has been found in this genus, motivating a pursuit for new species. In this study, a fragment of the mitochondrial Cytochrome c Oxidase subunit I (COI) gene was used to analyze the diversity of 10 morphospecies of Gymnotus (G. carapo, G. pantanal, G. sylvius, G. ineaquilabiatus, G. pantherinus, G. coropinae, G. jonasi, G. cylindricus, G. chaviro, G. tigre) in two Neotropical river basins (Paraná River and Doce River), in addition to specimens identified as Gymnotus sp. At least 15 OTUs were determined, eight of which belonged to the carapo complex. Our results indicate the existence of at least four Gymnotus species belonging to the carapo clade in the upper Paraná River basin and possibly erroneous previous identifications. Besides that, we identified a possible new species of Gymnotus in the Rio Doce basin. The Generalized Mixed Yule Coalescent (GMYC) and Poisson Tree Processes (PTP) molecular delimitation approaches place other specimens found in the upper Paraná River and Guaíba River (Gymnotus sp.) in well‐established groups that should be considered in studies involving the carapo complex.
Salvianolic acid inhibits the effects of high glucose on vascular endothelial dysfunction by modulating the Sirt1‐eNOS pathway
Authors: Zhai Jinghui , Qu Xiaoyu , Zhang Yueming , Gao Huan , Tao Lina , Song Yanqing , Zhang Sixi
Published: November 2018

Salvianolic acid (SA) is known for improving blood circulation, scavenging hydroxyl radicals, and preventing platelet aggregation. The research explored whether SA can protect against cardiovascular disease induced by high glucose conditions. Our results indicate that SA significantly increases cells viability and nitric oxide levels while decreasing reactive oxygen species generation. SA upregulated the expression levels of Bcl‐2 and decreased the levels of Bax, cleaved caspase‐3, and cleaved caspase‐9. Furthermore, the expression levels of Sirtuin 1 (Sirt1) and p‐endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) were markedly increased in response to SA treatment. Moreover, exposure of human umbilical vein endothelial cells to Ex527 resulted in reducing expression of p‐eNOS. However, the beneficial effects of SA were abolished partially when Ex527 was added. These findings suggest that SA can be used as a potential therapeutic to protect against high glucose‐induced endothelial injury by modulating Sirt1‐eNOS pathway.
Outer electronic shell visualization by NMR chemical shift laplacian of a helium probe
Authors: Tupikina Elena Yu. , Efimova Alexandra A. , Denisov Gleb S. , Tolstoy Peter M.
Published: November 2018

A new method of visualization of lone pairs is proposed using fluorine atoms in fluoroacetylene, trifluoroethylene, and fluoroform (sp, sp2, and sp3 hybridized carbons) as an example. The space around fluorines was probed by a helium atom and at each point 3He NMR chemical shift δHe and its Laplacian ∇2δHe were calculated. The ∇2δHe isosurfaces have symmetrical toroidal shapes along CF axes; the maximum values of ∇2δHe are reached at about 1.5 Å from fluorine atom center in the direction roughly coinciding with the lone pair localization. The absolute values of the ∇2δHe could be used to quantify the electron‐rich regions of lone pairs. The results are compared with more common visualization methods—3D maps of the molecular electrostatic potential and the electron localization function. We show that a helium atom could be used for evaluation of fine features of molecular electronic shell, since 3He NMR spectral characteristics remain sensitive at relatively large distances. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.