bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of micro‐aggregation behavior on the salt tolerance of polymer solutions
Authors: Zhu Shijie , Shi Leiting , Ye Zhongbin , Yuan Na , Li Xia
Published: November 2020

Polymer solution for oil displacement is mostly used in the middle and late stage of water flooding reservoir development, and reservoir groundwater conditions are often one of the main conditions restricting polymer application. Therefore, it is necessary to develop salt tolerance of polymer solutions with different aggregation behaviors, so as to facilitate the synthesis and optimization of suitable polymer systems. The differences in the micro‐aggregation behavior of three polymers with different molecular structures were explored. On this basis, the effects of divalent metal cations on the properties of the polymer solutions were analyzed by assessing the micro‐aggregation behavior, apparent viscosity, hydrodynamic size, and shear rheological characteristics. The results showed that the linear partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) was seriously affected by divalent cations, and the viscosity decreased obviously. The aggregation behavior of the polymer changed by hydrophobic association can enhance the salt tolerance of the solution. The hydrophobically modified partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HMPAM) with “chain beam” aggregation behavior has strong intermolecular connection, which enables it to withstand the content of calcium and magnesium ions of 1100 mg l−1. When the content of calcium and magnesium ions exceeds 600 mg l−1, dendritic hydrophobically associating polymer (DHAP) will destroy the interaction between molecular chains, resulting in the decrease of apparent viscosity and hydrodynamic size. For polymer flooding in high‐salinity reservoir, salt tolerant polymer system can be constructed by optimizing molecular weight and hydrophobic group content.
Correlating ultra‐toughening of bio‐based polyamide 410 with melt rheological and solid state relaxation dynamics by gelation rheology approach
Authors: Samantaray Saroj Kumar , Satapathy Bhabani K.
Published: November 2020

The sol–gel or viscous‐elastic transitions of the bio‐based polyamide 410/POE‐g‐MA (polyethylene‐co‐octene copolymer grafted with maleic anhydride) blends have been systematically discussed in the framework of melt rheology as assessed on a parallel plate rheometer set‐up in small amplitude oscillatory shear mode and solid state dynamic mechanical relaxation measurements. The viscous response dominated enhancement in elastic moduli of the blends that was characterized by the phase transitions across the composition range of 10–15 wt% of POE‐g‐MA. A direct correlation between the gel point (estimated from the cross‐over of frequency‐independent loss tangent curves) and the ultra‐toughness (maximized to an extent of ~15‐fold increase in notched Izod impact strength) could be established vis‐a‐vis its corroboration from the morphology of the impact‐failed surfaces. The extent of maleic anhydride (−MA) content induced phase interaction with polyamide 410 via the formation of a polyamide‐co‐(polyoctene‐co‐ethylene) type copolymer linkage in solid‐state and its subsequent impact on solid‐state damping was analyzed. The study establishes qualitative correlation between ultra‐toughening of polyamide 410 to that parameters based on relaxation dynamics measurements using melt rheology and solid‐state dynamic responses conforming to the principles of gelation rheology.
Distributed finite‐time control for systems interconnected over an undirected graph
Authors: Xue Xiaojuan , Xu Li , Wang Lu
Published: November 2020

In this paper, the distributed finite‐time control problem for the class of systems interconnected over an undirected graph is considered. First, the concepts of well‐posedness, finite‐time boundedness, and contractiveness for the considered systems are given. Then, a sufficient condition is developed to ensure that the plant is well‐posed, finite‐time bounded, and contractive, where the results are stated by terms of linear matrix inequalities (LMIs). For the control synthesis, we construct a distributed dynamic output‐feedback controller inheriting the structure of the plant such that the resulting closed‐loop system is finite‐time bounded and contractive. Since the analysis condition of the plant used for the closed‐loop system is presented by some nonlinear inequalities in given finite‐time interval, we further derive a sufficient condition in terms of LMIs with some fixed parameter for the existence of an appropriate output‐feedback controller such that the closed‐loop system is contractive. Finally, numerical simulations are provided to show the validity of the proposed results.
Studying endothelial cell shedding and orientation using adaptive perfusion‐culture in a microfluidic vascular chip
Authors: Zhang Xiang , Wang Zhenxing , Zhang Yu Shrike , Yan Shujie , Hou Chuanyu , Gong Youping , Qiu Jingjiang , Chen Mo , Li Qian
Published: November 2020

Most tissue‐engineered blood vessels are endothelialized by static cultures in vitro. However, it has not been clear whether endothelial cell‐shedding and local damage may occur in an endothelial layer formed by static cultures under the effect of blood flow shear postimplantation. In this study, we report a bionic and cost‐effective vascular chip platform, and proved that a static culture of endothelialized tissue‐engineered blood vessels had the problem of a large number of endothelial cells falling off under the condition imitating the human arterial blood flow, and we addressed this challenge by regulating the flow field in a vascular chip. Electrospun membranes made of highly oriented or randomly distributed poly(ε‐caprolactone) fibers were used as the vascular scaffolds, on which endothelial cells proliferated well and eventually formed dense intima layers. We noted that the monolayers gradually adapted to the artery‐like microenvironment through the regulation of chip flow field, which also revealed improved cellular orientations. In conclusion, we have proposed a vascular chip with adaptive flow patterns to gradually accommodate the statically cultured vascular endothelia to the shear environment of arterial flow field and enhanced the orientation of the endothelial cells. This strategy may find numerous potential applications such as screening of vascular engineering biomaterials and maturation parameters, studying of vascular biology and pathology, and construction of vessel‐on‐a‐chip models for drug analysis, among others.
A plausible involvement of plasmalemmal voltage‐dependent anion channel 1 in the neurotoxicity of 15‐deoxy‐Δ12,14‐prostaglandin J2
Authors: Koma Hiromi , Yamamoto Yasuhiro , Okamura Noboru , Yagami Tatsurou
Published: November 2020

Introduction

15‐deoxy‐Δ12,14‐prostaglandin J2 (15d‐PGJ2) causes neuronal apoptosis independently of its nuclear receptor, peroxysome‐proliferator activated receptor γ. Its membrane receptor, chemoattractant receptor‐homologous molecule expressed on Th2 cells (CRTH2), did not also mediate the neurotoxicity of 15d‐PGJ2. In the present study, we ascertained whether membrane targets beside CRTH2 were involved in the neurotoxicity of 15d‐PGJ2.

Methods

Neuronal membrane targets for 15d‐PGJ2 were separated by two‐dimensional electrophoresis, identified by proteomic approach. Their localizations were detected by microscopic immunofluorescence study. Cell viability and apoptosis was evaluated by MTT‐reducing activity and caspase‐3 activity, respectively.

Results

Voltage‐dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) was identified as one of membrane targets for 15d‐PGJ2. Modification of VDAC1 with 15d‐PGJ2 was detected by pull‐down assay. VDAC1 was detected in the plasma membrane and localized on the neuronal cell surface. VDAC1 was partially colocalized with membrane targets for 15d‐PGJ2. The anti‐VDAC antibody significantly attenuated the neurotoxicity of 15d‐PGJ2, accompanied by the suppression of the 15d‐PGJ2‐stimulated caspase‐3.

Conclusion

These findings suggested that the plasmalemmal VDAC might be involved in the neurotoxicity of 15d‐PGJ2.
Iatrogenic aorta‐coronary dissection: Case report and systematic review
Authors: Cereda Alberto Francesco , Toselli Marco , Khokhar Arif , Sticchi Alessandro , Gallo Francesco , Ruggiero Rossella , Ponticelli Francesco , Laricchia Alessandra , Mangieri Antonio , Sangiorgi Giuseppe , Colombo Antonio , Giannini Francesco
Published: November 2020

Objectives and Background

Iatrogenic aorto‐coronary dissection (ICD) is one of the most feared complications of interventional cardiology. Although rare, it is characterized by anterograde coronary ischemia and a concomitant aortic dissection, with potentially fatal consequences.

Methods

We present an example case of IACD and an accurate case‐series review of the literature including 125 published cases.

Results

There were no significant predisposing factors and the IACD occurred equally in elective and urgent procedures. A significant number of IACDs were associated with CTO procedures. The factors associated with a worse outcome were hemodynamic instability, the presence of anterograde ischemia, and the extent of dissection according to the Dunning classification. Bail‐out stenting was the most used strategy and its failure was associated with mortality.

Conclusion

The main features of IACD are anterograde ischemia, retrograde dissection, and hemodynamic instability, each of them should be addressed with no time delay, possibly with bailout stenting, the most employed exit‐strategy. According to our proposed algorithm, a shock team approach is required to coordinate the interdisciplinary skills and enabled patients to receive the best treatment.
A Two‐Armed Probe for In‐Cell DEER Measurements on Proteins**
Authors: Miao Qing , Zurlo Enrico , de Bruin Donny , Wondergem Joeri A. J. , Timmer Monika , Blok Anneloes , Heinrich Doris , Overhand Mark , Huber Martina , Ubbink Marcellus
Published: November 2020

The application of double electron‐electron resonance (DEER) with site‐directed spin labeling (SDSL) to measure distances in proteins and protein complexes in living cells puts rigorous restraints on the spin‐label. The linkage and paramagnetic centers need to resist the reducing conditions of the cell. Rigid attachment of the probe to the protein improves precision of the measured distances. Here, three two‐armed GdIII complexes, GdIII‐CLaNP13a/b/c were synthesized. Rather than the disulfide linkage of most other CLaNP molecules, a thioether linkage was used to avoid reductive dissociation of the linker. The doubly GdIII labeled N55C/V57C/K147C/T151C variants of T4Lysozyme were measured by 95 GHz DEER. The constructs were measured in vitro, in cell lysate and in Dictyostelium discoideum cells. Measured distances were 4.5 nm, consistent with results from paramagnetic NMR. A narrow distance distribution and typical modulation depth, also in cell, indicate complete and durable labeling and probe rigidity due to the dual attachment sites.
Numerical investigations into two‐phase turbulent modalities for bubble column flows
Authors: Tang Xin , Xu Songlin
Published: November 2020

Using the software Fluent, computational fluid dynamic simulations of bubble column flows were carried out in a 3D, unsteady, Euler‐Euler framework, combined with a population balance model (PBM), and discussed in connection with laboratory‐scale bubble columns, with special attention to two‐phase turbulent modalities (TPTMs) representing gas‐liquid turbulent interaction. Based on both time‐averaged and instantaneous characteristics of the flow fields, including four typical modalities (single‐phase, single‐phase and bubble‐induced turbulence (BIT), mixture, and per‐phase) and two rare modalities (mixture‐and‐BIT, and per‐phase‐and‐BIT), overall, six different TPTMs were comprehensively investigated. The results reveal that the single‐phase‐and‐BIT modality is suitable for simulating bubble column flows. However, the utilities of the single‐phase and per‐phase modalities are highly consistent, and it is recommended to use them with BIT modification. Besides, the mixture modality is unique compared with the three other typical modalities, and can be used as an acceptable simplified approach.
Left atrial activation and asymmetric anatomical remodeling in patients with atrial fibrillation: The relation between anatomy and function
Authors: Nedios Sotirios , Löbe Susanne , Knopp Helge , Seewöster Timm , Heijman Jordi , Crijns Harry J. G. M. , Arya Arash , Bollmann Andreas , Hindricks Gerhard , Dinov Borislav
Published: November 2020

Background

Identifying patients with advanced left atrial (LA) remodeling before catheter ablation (CA) of atrial fibrillation (AF) is crucial.

Hypothesis

This study aimed to identify echocardiographic parameters associated with changes in anatomy and conduction properties of the left atrium (LA).

Methods

We examined 75 AF patients prior to CA and measured the intervals from the P‐wave‐onset to four mitral annulus sites by pulsed‐wave tissue Doppler imaging (PW‐TDI). Patients were grouped to an upward U‐pattern (delayed anterior activation) and a downward D‐pattern (earliest LA activation anterior). CT‐data were used to measure the LA volume (LAV). LAV was divided into anterior‐ (LA‐A) and posterior‐parts by a plane, parallel to the posterior wall and between the veins and the appendage, to calculate the asymmetry index (ASI = LA‐A/LAV).

Results

Patients with U‐pattern (n = 66) had a higher ASI (65 ± 6 vs. 61 ± 3%, p = .014), older age (61 ± 11 vs. 51 ± 11 years, p = .03) and more diastolic dysfunction (71 vs. 22%, p = .008) Multivariate regression showed that age (OR 1.1 per year, CI 1.007–1.199) and diastolic dysfunction (OR 6.36, CI 1.132–35.7, p = .036) were independent predictors of the U‐pattern. Diastolic dysfunction (B 4.49, CI 1.61–7.37, p = .003) was the only independent predictor of ASI in linear regression analysis.

Conclusion

AF patients with a U‐pattern have an increased LA asymmetry. Diastolic dysfunction is a common cause of this LA activation and remodeling. Therefore, detection of a U‐pattern signifies patients with advanced AF and may facilitate selection for an appropriate ablation strategy.
Appended Aromatic Moieties in Flexible Bis‐3‐chloropiperidines Confer Tropism against Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Authors: Carraro Caterina , Helbing Tim , Francke Alexander , Zuravka Ivonne , Sosic Alice , De Franco Michele , Gandin Valentina , Gatto Barbara , Göttlich D. Richard
Published: November 2020

Nitrogen mustards (NMs) are an old but still largely diffused class of anticancer drugs. However, spreading mechanisms of resistance undermine their efficacy and therapeutic applicability. To expand their antitumour value, we developed bis‐3‐chloropiperidines (B‐CePs), a new class of mustard‐based alkylating agent, and we recently reported the striking selectivity for BxPC‐3 pancreatic tumour cells of B‐CePs bearing aromatic moieties embedded in the linker. In this study, we demonstrate that such tropism is shared by bis‐3‐chloropiperidines bearing appended aromatic groups in flexible linkers, whereas esters substituted by aliphatic groups or by efficient DNA‐interacting groups are potent but nonselective cytotoxic agents. Besides, we describe how the critical balance between water stability and DNA reactivity can affect the properties of bis‐3‐chloropiperidines. Together, these findings support the exploitation of B‐CePs as potential antitumour clinical candidates.
Relationship between insurance status and outcomes for patients with breast cancer in Missouri
Authors: Berrian Jennifer L. , Liu Ying , Lian Min , Schmaltz Chester L. , Colditz Graham A.
Published: November 2020

Background

The cancer stage at diagnosis, treatment delays, and breast cancer mortality vary with insurance status.

Methods

Using the Missouri Cancer Registry, this analysis included 31,485 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2015. Odds ratios (ORs) of a late‐stage (stage III or IV) diagnosis and a treatment delay (>60 days after the diagnosis) were calculated with logistic regression. The hazard ratio (HR) of breast cancer mortality was calculated with Cox proportional hazards regression. Mediation analysis was used to quantify the individual contributions of each covariate to mortality.

Results

The OR of a late‐stage diagnosis was higher for patients with Medicaid (OR, 1.72; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.56‐1.91) or no insurance (OR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.91‐2.78) in comparison with privately insured patients. Medicare (OR, 1.21; 95% CI, 1.10‐1.37), Medicaid (OR, 1.60; 95% CI, 1.37‐1.85), and uninsured patients (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.18‐2.12) had higher odds of a treatment delay. The HR of breast cancer–specific mortality was significantly increased in the groups with public insurance or no insurance and decreased after sequential adjustments for sociodemographic factors (HR, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.96‐2.91), tumor characteristics (HR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.05‐1.56), and treatment (HR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.01‐1.50). Late‐stage diagnoses accounted for 72.5% of breast cancer mortality in the uninsured.

Conclusions

Compared with the privately insured, women with public or no insurance had a higher risk for advanced breast cancer, a >60‐day treatment delay, and death from breast cancer. Particularly for the uninsured, Medicaid expansion and increased funding for education and screening programs could decrease breast cancer disparities.
The enhancement of appetite through the use of colored light in case of a cake: Preliminary evidence from event‐related potentials
Authors: Wang Ching‐Yi
Published: November 2020

Appetites are strongly affected by the color of the food and it has been found that different colors can affect the brain reflexes that impact the appetite. In this study, event‐related potential was used as a measurement tool to detect brain wave responses to assess foods under different colors of light, and to compare the appetite performance of participants. The food samples were captured under incandescent lights and colored lights (red and green lights under 5200 K). The incandescent lights were divided into the differential color temperature (2700, 4000, 6500 and 7500 K). Seventeen participants were invited to the experiment. The event‐related potential results showed that the warm incandescent light (4000 K) significantly increased appetite. Moreover, the red light enhances the late positive component amplitude and enhances the consumer's visual attraction and impression. The conclusions showed that the color of lighting can affect consumers' emotions, behaviors, psychology, and even appetite, and preliminary scientific evidence has been obtained from event‐related potential.
Informed Consent for Genetic and Genomic Research
Authors: Botkin Jeffrey R.
Published: November 2020

Genetic research often utilizes or generates information that is potentially sensitive to individuals, families, or communities. For these reasons, genetic research may warrant additional scrutiny from investigators and governmental regulators, compared to other types of biomedical research. The informed consent process should address the range of social and psychological issues that may arise in genetic research. This article addresses a number of these issues, including recruitment of participants, disclosure of results, psychological impact of results, insurance and employment discrimination, community engagement, consent for tissue banking, and intellectual property issues. Points of consideration are offered to assist in the development of protocols and consent processes in light of contemporary debates on a number of these issues. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Standard treatment–refractory cytomegalovirus encephalitis unmasked by immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome and successfully treated with virus‐specific hyperimmune globulin
Authors: Maximova Natalia , Marcuzzi Annalisa , Del Rizzo Irene , Zanon Davide , Maestro Alessandra , Barbi Egidio , Sala Roberto
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Cytomegalovirus (CMV)‐related encephalitis is a rare but potentially life‐threatening complication of CMV infection in immunocompromised patients. The high mortality rate is associated with deficient immune system reconstitution after hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) and poor bioavailability of antiviral drugs in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CMV‐related central nervous system (CNS) infection may occur with aspecific symptoms, without evidence of either blood viral load or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signs of encephalitis.

Methods

Here, we describe a 10‐year‐old girl who underwent an allogeneic HSCT and subsequently developed CMV encephalitis. Because of the absence of CMV antigen in the blood, the diagnosis of encephalitis was proposed only after a delay, following the onset of immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). Two months of combined dual antiviral therapy with ganciclovir and foscarnet proved ineffective against CMV and caused significant bone marrow and renal toxicity. To avoid further toxicity, the girl was given daily treatment with CMV‐hyperimmune globulins alone.

Results

After three weeks, the CSF viral load dropped significantly and was undetectable within three more weeks. In the meantime, the renal impairment resolved, and there was a complete bone marrow recovery.

Conclusion

We suggest that this patient succeeded in achieving CMV CSF clearance with high dose of CMV‐hyperimmune globulin, given alone, because of the ability of immunoglobulins to penetrate the blood–brain barrier (BBB).
White matter integrity moderates the relation between experienced childhood maltreatment and fathers’ behavioral response to infant crying
Authors: Alyousefi‐van Dijk Kim , van der Knaap Noa , Buisman Renate S.M. , Horstman Lisa I. , Lotz Anna M. , Riem Madelon M. E. , Schuengel Carlo , van IJzendoorn Marinus H. , Bakermans‐Kranenburg Marian J.
Published: November 2020

The ability to provide appropriate responses to infant distress is vital to paternal care, but may be affected by fathers’ experiences of childhood maltreatment. Detrimental effects of childhood maltreatment have been found in the adult brain's white matter fibers, accompanied with impaired emotional and cognitive functioning. In the current study (N = 121), we examined new and expectant fathers’ childhood maltreatment experiences (i.e. emotional and physical abuse and neglect), current behavioral responses (i.e. handgrip force) to infant cry sounds, and white matter integrity using diffusion tensor imaging. First, more exposure to childhood maltreatment was associated with more use of excessive handgrip force in response to infant crying by fathers. Second, the association between experienced childhood maltreatment and white matter integrity was not significant in whole‐brain analyses. Lastly, we found that the association between maltreatment exposure and excessive handgrip force during infant crying was absent in fathers with high tract integrity in the bilateral uncinate fasciculus. These findings possibly point to insufficient behavioral inhibition or emotional dysregulation in fathers who experienced childhood maltreatment, but buffering for this effect in those with larger integrity in brain fibers connecting the amygdala and prefrontal cortex.
New application of the CRISPR‐Cas9 system for site‐specific exogenous gene doping analysis
Authors: Yi Joon‐Yeop , Kim Minyoung , Min Hophil , Kim Byung‐Gee , Son Junghyun , Kwon Oh‐Seung , Sung Changmin
Published: November 2020

The increased potential for gene doping since the introduction of gene therapy presents the need to develop antidoping assays. We therefore aimed to develop a quick and simple method for the detection of specifically targeted exogenous doping genes utilizing an in vitro clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats‐CRISPR associated protein 9 (CRISPR‐Cas9) system. A human erythropoietin (hEPO) is a drug frequently used for doping in athletes, and gene doping using gene transfer techniques may be attempted. Therefore, we selected hEPO gene as a model of exogenous doping gene, and complemental single guide RNA (sgRNA) was designed to specifically bind to the four exon–exon junctions in the hEPO cDNA. For the rapid reaction of CRISPR‐Cas9, further optimization was performed using an open‐source program (CRISPOR) that avoids TT and GCC motifs before the protospacer adjacent motif (PAM) domain and predicts the efficiency of the sgRNA. We optimized the in vitro Cas9 assay and dual use of sgRNA for double cleavage and identified the limit of detection (LOD) of the 1.25 nM of the double cleavage method. We expect that the improved CRISPR‐Cas9 method can be used for antidoping analysis of gene doping.
Profile of language abilities in a sample of adults with developmental disorders
Authors: Bradshaw Abigail R. , Woodhead Zoe V. J. , Thompson Paul A. , Bishop Dorothy V. M.
Published: November 2020

This study investigated the profile of language abilities in a sample of high‐achieving English speaking adults with developmental disorders. Ninety‐seven adult participants were recruited: 49 with a dyslexia diagnosis (dyslexic group), 16 with a diagnosis of a different developmental disorder including dyspraxia, autism and SpLD (non‐dyslexic developmental disorder group) and 32 with no diagnosis (non‐disordered group). Dyslexic and non‐dyslexic developmental disorder groups demonstrated similar impairments across measures of word reading, working memory, processing speed and oral language. Dyslexic participants showed the usual pattern of impaired phonological skills but spared non‐verbal intelligence and vocabulary. There were also some suggestions of impaired structural oral language skills in this group. A data‐driven clustering analysis found that diagnosis was not a reliable predictor of similarity between cases, with diagnostic categories split between data‐driven clusters. Overall, the findings indicate that high‐achieving adults with developmental disorders do demonstrate impairments that are likely to affect success in higher education, but that support needs should be assessed on a case‐by‐case basis, rather than according to diagnostic label.
Cardiac output changes during exercise in heart failure patients: focus on mid‐exercise
Authors: Corrieri Nicoletta , Del Torto Alberico , Vignati Carlo , Maragna Riccardo , De Martino Fabiana , Cellamare Martina , Farina Stefania , Salvioni Elisabetta , Bonomi Alice , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: November 2020

Aims

Peak exercise oxygen uptake (VO2) and cardiac output (CO) are strong prognostic indexes in heart failure (HF) but unrelated to real‐life physical activity, which is associated to submaximal effort.

Methods and results

We analysed maximal cardiopulmonary exercise test with rest, mid‐exercise, and peak exercise non‐invasive CO measurements (inert gas rebreathing) of 231 HF patients and 265 healthy volunteers. HF patients were grouped according to exercise capacity (peak VO2 < 50% and ≥50% pred, Groups 1 and 2). To account for observed differences, data regarding VO2, CO, stroke volume (SV), and artero‐venous O2 content difference [ΔC(a‐v)O2] were adjusted by age, gender, and body mass index. A multiple regression analysis was performed to predict peak VO2 from mid‐exercise cardiopulmonary exercise test and CO parameters among HF patients. Rest VO2 was lower in HF compared with healthy subjects; meanwhile, Group 1 patients had the lowest CO and highest ΔC(a‐v)O2. At mid‐exercise, Group 1 patients achieved a lower VO2, CO, and SV [0.69 (interquartile range 0.57–0.80) L/min; 5.59 (4.83–6.67) L/min; 62 (51–73) mL] than Group 2 [0.94 (0.83–1.1) L/min; 7.6 (6.56–9.01) L/min; 77 (66–92) mL] and healthy subjects [1.15 (0.93–1.30) L/min; 9.33 (8.07–10.81) L/min; 87 (77–102) mL]. Rest to mid‐exercise SV increase was lower in Group 1 than Group 2 (P = 0.001) and healthy subjects (P < 0.001). At mid‐exercise, ΔC(a‐v)O2 was higher in Group 2 [13.6 (11.8–15.4) mL/100 mL] vs. healthy patients [11.6 (10.4–13.2) mL/100 mL] (P = 0.002) but not different from Group 1 [13.6 (12.0–14.9) mL/100 mL]. At peak exercise, Group 1 patients achieved a lower VO2, CO, and SV than Group 2 and healthy subjects. ΔC(a‐v)O2 was the highest in Group 2. At multivariate analysis, a model comprising mid‐exercise VO2, carbon dioxide production (VCO2), CO, haemoglobin, and weight predicted peak VO2, P < 0.001. Mid‐exercise VO2 and CO, haemoglobin, and weight added statistically significantly to the prediction, P < 0.050.

Conclusions

Mid‐exercise VO2 and CO portend peak exercise values and identify severe HF patients. Their evaluation could be clinically useful.
Identification of sensitive process parameter of rubber seed oil conversion to biodiesel using fluorite and calcined limestone as catalysts—Uncertainty error analysis
Authors: Aryasomayajula Venkata Satya Lakshmi Sai Bharadwaj , Subramaniapillai Niju , Begum Khadhar Mohamed Meera Sheriffa , Narayanan Anantharaman
Published: November 2020

Reliability on the observed results of biodiesel prepared from high viscous rubber seed oil (RSO) using fluorite and calcined limestone as catalysts has been studied using uncertainty error analysis. In this study, the error analysis was performed for three different deviations 5, 10, and 15% of optimum process parameter conditions of 12:1 methanol: oil molar ratio (mol/mol), 4 (wt %) of catalyst concentration, and 5(h) of reaction time, respectively. All the uncertainty experiments were performed for upper level and lower level of every deviation mentioned with. From these experiments, it was observed that methanol: oil molar ratio (mol/mol) shows more error on a small deviation of optimum conditions when compared with catalyst concentration and reaction time, respectively. It is also observed that molar ratio is the most sensitive process parameter in biodiesel preparation from RSO using fluorite and calcined limestone as heterogeneous base catalysts when compared to catalyst concentration and reaction time, respectively.
Energy quality factor and exergy destruction processes analysis for chemical looping hydrogen generation by coal
Authors: Zhang Fan , Zhu Lin , Wang Yuan , Sun Ling
Published: November 2020

Chemical looping hydrogen generation (CLHG) is a hydrogen production process with broad prospects for its advantages of not requiring H2 purification process and direct CO2 capture. Presently, the research on the integrated system of CLHG focuses on the impact of integrated processes and operating variables on the overall energy efficiency and exergy efficiency of the system. However, the research on the matching relationship between quantity and quality in the process of energy conversion is insufficient, and the flow direction of exergy and the specific exergy destruction process for equipment are not clear. The integrated system of coal gasification (CG) and three reactors CLHG was established in this paper with a hydrogen production efficiency of 42.55% and system exergy efficiency of 52.98%. This paper studied the exergy flow direction and efficiency of the equipment in the system, providing the improved direction for the amelioration of the system; a detailed description was present on the change process of energy quality in each equipment with energy quality factor, and the concept of energy quality factor ratio was proposed as an evaluation tool for matching the quantity and quality of energy in the system. It is calculated that the ratio of energy quality factor of the integrated system of CG and CLHG is 0.944. By comparing with the energy quality ratio of the traditional CG hydrogen production system (0.896), it can be concluded that the integrated system of CG and CLHG has a better energy matching relationship.
Machine learning‐based model for lithium‐ion batteries in BMS of electric/hybrid electric aircraft
Authors: Hashemi Seyed Reza , Bahadoran Baghbadorani Afsoon , Esmaeeli Roja , Mahajan Ajay , Farhad Siamak
Published: November 2020

Reliable operation and control of battery packs can lead to increasing applications of batteries as energy sources for mobile power systems such as electric/hybrid electric aircraft. If the operation of a battery pack is controlled and monitored thoroughly, the safety in the battery system of an electrified aircraft can be guaranteed. The battery model has many applications in battery management systems such as battery performance analysis and fault detection. To achieve an accurate fault diagnosis for electric aircraft, an intelligent fault detection scheme within an accurate battery cell model is required. In this study, an adaptive lithium‐ion battery model is proposed in which models' parameters are estimated by a supervised machine learning paradigm. This adaptive battery model is developed based on a second order equivalent circuit model, which has a good representation of lithium‐ion batteries dynamics. Comparative verification experiments show good accuracy and robustness of the machine learning‐based parameter estimator lead to an accurate battery model with an average error less than 0.4%. Moreover, to see the effectiveness of this machine learning‐based model in fault detection applications, a model‐based fault diagnosis scheme is developed. Finally, the analysis of fault diagnosis tests under different test conditions proves that the proposed adaptive battery model can significantly improve the fault diagnosis accuracy of batteries.
Edge‐based blockchain enabled anomaly detection for insider attack prevention in Internet of Things
Authors: Tukur Yusuf Muhammad , Thakker Dhavalkumar , Awan Irfan‐Ullah
Published: November 2020

Internet of Things (IoT) platforms are responsible for overall data processing in the IoT System. This ranges from analytics and big data processing to gathering all sensor data over time to analyze and produce long‐term trends. However, this comes with prohibitively high demand for resources such as memory, computing power and bandwidth, which the highly resource constrained IoT devices lack to send data to the platforms to achieve efficient operations. This results in poor availability and risk of data loss due to single point of failure should the cloud platforms suffer attacks. The integrity of the data can also be compromised by an insider, such as a malicious system administrator, without leaving traces of their actions. To address these issues, we propose in this work an edge‐based blockchain enabled anomaly detection technique to prevent insider attacks in IoT. The technique first employs the power of edge computing to reduce the latency and bandwidth requirements by taking processing closer to the IoT nodes, hence improving availability, and avoiding single point of failure. It then leverages some aspect of sequence‐based anomaly detection, while integrating distributed edge with blockchain that offers smart contracts to perform detection and correction of abnormalities in incoming sensor data. Evaluation of our technique using real IoT system datasets showed that the technique remarkably achieved the intended purpose, while ensuring integrity and availability of the data which is critical to IoT success.
Comparison of smoke component yields between room‐scale and bench‐scale experiments
Authors: Gann Richard G. , Marsh Nathan D.
Published: November 2020

A standard procedure is needed for obtainingaccurate values of the yields of fire effluent components that are associated with harm to people from a singleacute exposure to the effluent from a fire involving realistic commercial products. We compare yields of toxic gases generated by four bench‐scale apparatus to the yields from previously conducted room‐scale fires. The apparatus is the radiant apparatus in NFPA 269 and ASTM E 1678, the smoke density chamber in ISO 5659‐2, a controlled‐atmosphere version of the cone calorimeter (ASTM E 1354), and the tube furnace specified in ISO/TS 19700. The bench‐scale specimens were cut from the same products that were burned in the room‐scale tests: a sofa, bookcases, and household electric power cable. The yields of CO2 CO, HCl, and HCN were determined. The yields of other toxicants (NO, NO2, formaldehyde, and acrolein) were below the detection limits, but were shown to be of limited importance relative to the four measured gases. We developed a criterion of a factor of two for satisfactoryscale agreement. Using this, the yields from the modified cone calorimeter were the most promising, but still imperfect, match to the room fire yields. The results of this study provide an improved basis for obtainingaccurate combustion product yield data for fire hazard and risk modeling over what currently exists.
A conservative flux‐splitting method for steady shock capturing
Authors: Zhu Zhibin , Shang Qing , Shen Qing
Published: November 2020

A novel flux‐splitting method that can preserve the flux conservation properties for the steady shock waves is proposed in present paper. The proposed method is based on the total variation diminishing (TVD) scheme, and the dissipative flux term is constructed by the flux directly instead of conservative variables. Similar transformations are imposed on the anti‐dissipation term, which is formulated by utilizing the limiter function. Numerical experiments were performed on the one, quasi one‐ and two‐dimensional shock wave problems. The computed results show that, the steady shock waves can be accurately captured within two grid points by the proposed conservative flux‐splitting (CFS) method, and numerical oscillations are successfully eliminated near the flow discontinuities. The conservation and accuracy of present method are demonstrated by comparisons with the TVD, flux vector splitting and flux difference splitting methods.
How Do Patients With Cirrhosis and Their Caregivers Learn About and Manage Their Health? A Review and Qualitative Study
Authors: Saleh Zachary M. , Bloom Patricia P. , Grzyb Katie , Tapper Elliot B.
Published: November 2020

The complexity of cirrhosis requires patients and their caregivers to be well educated to improve outcomes. Data are lacking regarding how to best educate patients and their caregivers in the setting of cirrhosis. Our aim is to understand (both through existing literature and by asking patients and their caregivers) how patients learn about their disease, barriers in their education and disease management, and self-management strategies. We performed a structured search of published articles in PubMed (1973 to 2020) using keywords “cirrhosis” plus “barriers”, “education”, “self-management”, or “self-care”. Additionally, we conducted a focus group of a representative sample of patients and their caregivers to understand how knowledge about cirrhosis is found and incorporated into self-management. Of 504 returned manuscripts, 11 pertained to barriers in cirrhosis, interventions, or educational management. Barriers are well documented and include disease complexity, medication challenges, comorbid conditions, and lack of effective education. However, data regarding addressing these barriers, especially effective educational interventions, are scarce. Current strategies include booklets and videos, patient empowerment, and in-person lectures. Without widespread use of these interventions, patients are left with suboptimal knowledge about their disease, a sentiment unanimously echoed by our focus group. Despite linkage to subspecialty care and consistent follow-up, patients remain uncertain about their disease origin, prognosis, and therapies to manage symptoms. It is clear that more data are needed to assess effective strategies to address unmet educational needs. Existing strategies need to be blended and improved, their effectiveness evaluated, and the results distributed widely.
Direct-Acting Antiviral Treatment Use Remains Low Among Florida Medicaid Beneficiaries With Chronic Hepatitis C
Authors: Park Haesuk , Song Hyun Jin , Jiang Xinyi , Henry Linda , Cook Robert L. , Nelson David R.
Published: November 2020

Medicaid prior authorization (PA) policies for treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) with direct-acting antiviral (DAA) therapy are changing. We aimed to evaluate effects of changes in PA requirements on treatment uptake and to determine the factors associated with DAA treatment among Florida Medicaid beneficiaries with HCV. This is a retrospective cohort analysis of Florida’s Medicaid administrative claims and electronic medical records (2013-2018). A total of 14,063 newly diagnosed patients with HCV were grouped based on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) co-infection and/or a substance use disorder (SUD) (7,735 HCV mono-infected with a SUD, 5,180 HCV mono-infected without a SUD, 564 HCV/HIV co-infected with a SUD, and 584 HCV/HIV co-infected without a SUD). Although the treatment rate increased three-fold after June 1, 2016, when a fibrosis-stage restriction was eliminated, only 8% received DAAs. Compared to HCV mono-infected without a SUD, HCV mono-infected with a SUD and HCV/HIV co-infected with a SUD were 47% (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.53; 95% confidence interval, 0.47-0.60) and 59% (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.41; 95% confidence interval, 0.28-0.61) less likely to initiate DAAs. Those with HCV/HIV/SUD did not experience a DAA initiation increase after a fibrosis-stage restriction was eliminated. Compared with Whites, Blacks were less likely to receive DAAs but were more likely to complete treatment. Use of medication-assisted therapy was low, despite those on medication-assisted therapy being 60% more likely to initiate DAA therapy and no more likely to discontinue therapy. Conclusion: Despite changes in Florida’s Medicaid PA requirements for DAA treatment, only 8% received treatment. Disparities in treatment access were found among patients with HIV and a SUD, and who were Black.

In our retrospective cohort study analysis using Florida Medicaid claims data (2013-2018), we examined the effects of prior authorization policy on access to direct-acting antiviral (DAA) treatment and identified factors associated with disparities among Florida Medicaid patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Our work shows that the number of Florida Medicaid patients treated for HCV has increased, but treatment rates are still very low (8%); compared to HCV mono-infected patients without substance use disorders (SUD), HCV mono-infected patients with SUD and HCV/HIV patients co-infected with SUD were 47% and 59% less likely to initiate DAAs, but no difference was observed in HCV/HIV patients co-infected without SUD. Disparities in access to treatment continue among patients with SUD, blacks, and pregnant women among Medicaid patients with HCV.
Unsteady squeezing flow of magnetic hybrid nanofluids within parallel plates and entropy generation
Authors: Upreti Himanshu , Pandey Alok Kumar , Kumar Manoj
Published: November 2020

Nowadays, due to the novel thermal effectiveness, a new class of fluid, named “hybrid nanofluid,” is used. It has significant applications in domestic and industrial fields. In this study, we investigated the entropy generation and heat transfer of unsteady squeezing magnetic hybrid nanofluid flow between parallel plates by considering heat source/sink and thermal radiation. In this analysis, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) (single‐walled carbon nanotube and multiwalled carbon nanotube) are considered as nanoparticles that are dispersed in water‐ethylene glycol (EG) mixtures (ie, 70%W + 30%EG and 50%W + 50%EG). For the analysis of the physical behavior of hybrid nanofluids, new models related to hybrid nanofluids are incorporated. From this study, it has been observed that as the hybrid nanofluids moved away from the surface, the entropy generation outlines accelerated with an increase in magnetic field values. Moreover, an increase in the volume fraction of CNTs, the thermal conductivity of 50%W + 50%EG + CNTs hybrid nanofluid is greater than 70%W + 30%EG + CNTs hybrid nanofluid.
Determinants of credit risk in Palestine: Panel data estimation
Authors: Abusharbeh Mohammed T.
Published: November 2020

This manuscript examines the influence of macroeconomic and bank‐specific factors on credit quality in Palestine over the last decade. For this purpose, empirical tests are conducted using panel dataset of the fixed and random effects estimates form the period of 2007 to 2018. The results of fixed effects show ample evidence of significant impact from interest, profitability and credit supply to credit default when financial crisis in included in the panel data analysis. As result, interest and credit supply positively impact non‐performing loans (NPLs) with statistical significance, while profitability has significant negative affiliation with NPLs. It also found that Palestinian commercial banks are able to cushion their NPLs during and after the global crisis. The novelty of this research provides a good knowledge in credit quality and risk control. Therefore, it can help in understanding the underlying causes of credit risk in this country and empower the commercial banks to sustain their competitive environment. Hence, it could be of considerable use to the monetary authorities to control credit default and protect Palestinian banks from financial distress.
Rare case of penile fracture caused by an injury to the crus penis: Delayed repair using the transperineal approach
Authors: Harada Junki , Shida Yohei , Gono Suzuna , Masato Masahito , Yuno Tsutomu , Hakariya Tomoaki , Kihara Toshiharu , Maeda Kanenori , Miyata Yasuyoshi , Sakai Hideki
Published: November 2020

Introduction

Penile fracture is a rare urologic emergency, and its surgical treatment is selected based on the damaged site of the penile corpus cavernosum. Penile fractures at the site of the crus penis are quite rare, and there is controversy regarding the preferred method of surgical repair.

Case presentation

A 25‐year‐old Asian man was injured when rolling over in bed. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a tear in the left crus of the penis with a hematoma. Delayed surgery was successfully performed using the transperineal approach. He did not experience pain, dysuria, or erectile dysfunction postoperatively.

Conclusion

Delayed surgical repair using transperineal approach may be useful for penile fractures associated with penile crus injuries.
Accompanying aNepantleraBorder Artist’s Empathy: One Mexican Teen’sTestimoniosof Healing, Empowerment, and Transformation
Authors: Abril‐Gonzalez Paty
Published: November 2020

In this case study, the author showcases a Mexican teen’stestimonios, crossing borders through poetry and art. The author grounds this work within Anzaldúa’snepantla(in‐between space) andnepantleraborder artist notions and draws from Sepúlveda’s pedagogy ofacompañamiento(accompaniment). During a larger project, the author, a former teacher, reunited with former elementary students the summer before 10th grade. The author focuses on one participant, Valeria, and her nepantlera border artist empathy, revealing her embodied experiences over time. The author seeks to show how acompañamiento coupled with testimonios creates apertures across time. Implications include a teacher’s acompañamiento in establishing creative nepantla spaces outside of traditional educational structures. This fostersconfianza(trust) to express testimonios, uncovering a holistic understanding of students’ lives. Testimonios in this study promote healing, empowerment, and transformation amid various modalities for students in the educational system, creatively enhancing teachers’ literacy instruction.