bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of concurrent tricuspid regurgitation on mortality after transcatheter aortic‐valve implantation
Authors: Takagi Hisato , Hari Yosuke , Kawai Norikazu , Ando Tomo ,   for the ALICE (All‐Literature Investigation of Cardiovascular Evidence) Group
Published: November 2018

Objectives

To determine whether concomitant tricuspid regurgitation (TR) is associated with increased mortality in patients with severe aortic stenosis (AS) undergoing transcatheter aortic‐valve implantation (TAVI), we performed a meta‐analysis of currently available studies.

Methods

MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched through May 2018. We included comparative or cohort studies enrolling patients with AS undergoing TAVI and reporting early (in‐hospital or 30‐day) and late (including early) all‐cause mortality in patients stratified by baseline TR grade. An odds ratio (OR) of early mortality and a hazard ratio (HR) of late mortality with its 95% CI for significant versus non‐significant (typically, ≥moderate versus <moderate) TR was extracted. Study‐specific estimates were combined in the random‐effects model.

Results

Our search identified 12 eligible studies enrolling a total of 41,485 TAVI patients. The meta‐analysis for early mortality combining 3 ORs demonstrated a significant 1.80‐fold increase in mortality with significant TR (OR, 1.80; 95% CI, 1.01 to 3.19; P = 0.05). The primary meta‐analysis for midterm (6‐month to 30‐month) mortality combining all the 12 HRs/ORs indicated a significant 1.96‐fold increase in mortality (HR/OR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.35 to 2.85; P = 0.0004). The secondary meta‐analysis for midterm mortality combining 7 homogeneous HRs (adjusted HRs for ≥moderate versus <moderate TR) showed a significant 2.25‐fold increase in mortality (HR, 2.25; 95% CI, 1.20–4.24; P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Concurrent significant (typically, ≥moderate) TR is associated with an approximately two‐fold increase in both early and midterm all‐cause mortality in patients with AS undergoing TAVI.
Two‐year outcomes of statin therapy in patients with acute myocardial infarction with or without dyslipidemia after percutaneous coronary intervention in the era of new‐generation drug‐eluting stents within Korean population: Data from the Korea Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry
Authors: Kim Yong Hoon , Her Ae‐Young , Jeong Myung Ho , Kim Byeong‐Keuk , Shin Dong‐Ho , Kim Jung‐Sun , Ko Young‐Guk , Choi Donghoon , Hong Myeong‐Ki , Jang Yangsoo
Published: November 2018

Background

Limited studies focused on long‐term outcomes of statin therapy in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) with or without dyslipidemia after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in the era of new‐generation drug‐eluting stents (DES). We thought to investigate 2‐year clinical outcomes of statin therapy in these patients.

Methods

A total of 18,137 eligible AMI patients (from the Korea AMI Registry [KAMIR]) were finally enrolled and divided into four groups according to the presence or absence of dyslipidemia and statin therapy (dyslipidemia+/statin− [group A, 309 patients], dyslipidemia+/statin+ [group B, 2094 patients], dyslipidemia−/statin– [group C, 672 patients], dyslipidemia−/statin+ [group D, 15062 patients]). The primary outcome was major adverse cardiac event (MACE) defined as all‐cause death, myocardial infarction (MI) and revascularization.

Results

During the 2‐year follow‐up period, the cumulative incidence of MACE in the group A was higher than the group B (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 2.207; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.098–3.743; p = .024) and the group D (adjusted HR, 2.110; 95% CI, 1.240–3.593, p = .006). This significantly increased incidence of MACE caused by the higher cumulative incidences of all‐cause death and cardiac death (CD) in the group A compared with groups B and D. However, the cumulative incidences of MI and revascularization were not significantly different among these four groups.

Conclusion

Statin therapy demonstrated significantly reduced incidences of MACE, all‐cause death and CD compared with non‐users after PCI in AMI patients with or without dyslipidemia during 2‐year follow‐up period in the era of new‐generation DES.
Boron‐Doped Graphene as Efficient Electrocatalyst for Zinc‐Bromine Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Venkatesan Natesam , Archana Kaliyarai Selvakumar , Suresh Subramanian , Aswathy Raghunandanan , Ulaganthan Mani , Periasamy Padikassu , Ragupathy Pitchai
Published: November 2018

It is well‐known that boron‐doped graphene (BDG) is a promising electrode material for various applications owing to its outstanding properties, such as high electrocatalytic activity, electrical conductivity, large surface area, and cycle stability. In the present study, BDG is synthesized and used as an electrocatalyst for improving the bromine reversibility in Zn−Br2 redox flow battery applications. BDG showed a highly improved peak separation potential (145 mV) for the 2Br−/Br2 redox reaction compared to reduced graphene oxide (264 mV). Furthermore, the flow cell showed a low potential drop of 265 mV for the BDG‐based cell, which is lower than those of the other flow cells tested herein (for CF: 434 mV; r‐GO: 363 mV). The synthesized materials were also subjected to various physicochemical characterizations such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The durability of the flow‐cell system employing BDG/CF was analyzed at 20 mA/cm2 and the cell showed a maximum Coulombic efficiency of 86 % at the 100th cycle.
Exceptional Low Dielectric Behavior of Chemically Robust, Guest‐Free Co‐ and Mn‐Based Coordination Polymers
Authors: Kao Ya‐Chuan , Mendiratta Shruti , Usman Muhammad , Wen Yuh‐Sheng , Wang Chih‐Ming , Zhao Li , Wu Maw‐Kuen , Lu Kuang‐Lieh
Published: November 2018

Synthesis of two guest‐free 1D coordination polymers [M(amtd)2]n (1, M=Co; 2, M=Mn; amtd=2‐amino‐5‐mercapto‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole) was achieved through hydro(solvo)thermal reactions, which are found to be stable and chemically robust towards various solvents and serve as promising inter‐layer dielectric materials for microelectronics with exceptional low dielectric constants (1, κ=2.43 at 1 MHz; 2, κ=2.57 at 1 MHz).
Molecular Design Approach Managing Molecular Orbital Superposition for High Efficiency without Color Shift in Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Kim Mounggon , Yoon Seong‐Jun , Han Si Hyun , Ansari Ramin , Kieffer John , Lee Jun Yeob , Kim Jinsang
Published: November 2018

Molecular design principles of thermally activated delayed fluorescent (TADF) emitters having a high quantum efficiency and a color tuning capability was investigated by synthesizing three TADF emitters with donors at different positions of a benzonitrile acceptor. The position rendering a large overlap between the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) enhances the quantum efficiency of the TADF emitter. Regarding the orbital overlap, donor attachments at 2‐ and 6‐positions of the benzonitrile were more beneficial than 3‐ and 5‐substitutions. Moreover, an additional attachment of a weak donor at the 4‐position further increased the quantum efficiency without decreasing the emission energy. Therefore, the molecular design strategy of substituting strong donors at the positions allowing a large molecular orbital overlap and an extra weak donor is a good approach to achieve both high quantum efficiency and a slightly increased emission energy.
Heterogeneous Metal–Organic‐Framework‐Based Biohybrid Catalysts for Cascade Reactions in Organic Solvent
Authors: Wang Yangxin , Zhang Ningning , Zhang En , Han Yunhu , Qi Zhenhui , Ansorge‐Schumacher Marion B. , Ge Yan , Wu Changzhu
Published: November 2018

In cooperative catalysis, the combination of chemo‐ and biocatalysts to perform one‐pot reactions is a powerful tool for the improvement of chemical synthesis. Herein, UiO‐66‐NH2 was employed to stepwise immobilize Pd nanoparticles (NPs) and Candida antarctica lipase B (CalB) for the fabrication of biohybrid catalysts for cascade reactions. Distinct from traditional materials, UiO‐66‐NH2 has a robust but tunable structure that can be utilized with a ligand exchange approach to adjust its hydrophobicity, resulting in excellent catalyst dispersity in diverse reaction media. These attractive properties contribute to the formation of MOF‐based biohybrid catalysts with high activity and selectivity in the synthesis of benzyl hexanoate from benzaldehyde and ethyl hexanoate. With this proof‐of‐concept, we reasonably expect that future tailor‐made MOFs can combine other catalysts, ranging from chemical to biological catalysts for applications in industry.
HPV‐associated neuroendocrine carcinomas of the head and neck in FNA biopsies: Clinicopathologic features of a rare entity
Authors: Jo Vickie Y. , Krane Jeffrey F. , Pantanowitz Liron , Monaco Sara E.
Published: November 2018

Background

The majority of human papillomavirus (HPV)–associated oropharyngeal carcinomas are squamous cell carcinomas; however, there are rare reports of HPV–associated neuroendocrine carcinomas (HPV‐NECs) in the upper aerodigestive tract. The aim of this study was to characterize the diagnostic features of fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) cases of head and neck HPV‐NEC.

Methods

Cytology cases of HPV‐NEC were identified over a 3‐year period from 2 institutions. Clinical, cytomorphologic, and ancillary test results were evaluated.

Results

Five FNA cases of HPV‐NEC were identified from 4 patients with cervical lymph node metastases with primaries in the oropharynx (n = 2), nasopharynx (n = 1), and larynx (n = 1). Three cases showed mixed small cell and large cell neuroendocrine morphologies; 1 case was a small cell carcinoma, and the last case appeared as a large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. All tumors were strongly positive for synaptophysin and p16 and negative for p63/p40. Two cases tested for INSM1 showed diffuse nuclear staining. HPV was confirmed by in situ hybridization in 4 cases, and HPV‐18 was detected by polymerase chain reaction in the fifth case. Retinoblastoma (Rb) staining was moderate to weak (5/5), and p53 was weakly positive (5/5).

Conclusions

Head and neck HPV‐NEC is a rare, aggressive entity that can show mixed small and large cell features and p16 upregulation; p53 and Rb are variable with limited diagnostic utility. Because p16 positivity can be nonspecific, confirmatory HPV testing is required and may be helpful in determining the primary site for neuroendocrine carcinoma of an unknown primary. The accurate diagnosis of HPV‐NEC is also important because of its worse prognosis in comparison with HPV‐associated squamous cell carcinoma.
All‐Inorganic Perovskite Nanocrystals‐Based Light Emitting Diodes and Solar Cells
Authors: Du Bin , Xia Yingdong , Wei Qi , Xing Guichuan , Chen Yonghua , Huang Wei
Published: November 2018

All‐inorganic perovskite nanocrystals have attracted much attention in recent years due to their long stability, spectral tunability, suitable bandgap, long carrier diffusion length and high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY). Their excellent optical properties and stability make them suitable candidates for optoelectronic devices. In this review, we first provide an up‐to‐date review on the synthesis of all‐inorganic NCs, such as hot‐injection, room‐temperature, ultrasonication, solvothermal, fast microwave‐assisted and amine‐free methods. In addition, recent research progress of optoelectronic applications in light emitting diodes and solar cells is presented. Finally, we show the new challenges and give suggestions to make a broad range of applications in the near future.
Scalable and secure group key agreement for wireless ad‐hoc networks by extending RSA scheme
Authors: PJA Alphonse , Y Venkatramana Reddy
Published: November 2018

Groups can be formed as a fixed or static set or as a varying or dynamic set. Previously, no researcher considered groups, other than the two configurations. Yet, a new method is the formation of groups and the signatures, based on demand approach, which non trivializes the issue. By considering groups as virtual, issues of scalability, revocation rights of members, memory area for storage of private key for each member, etc, are addressed. The dynamic characteristics of private key, public key, partial signatures of individual members, as well as the group as an entity are factors. The generation of signatures by a group member is with its private key and the groups partial signature. This arrangement facilitates many advantages such as scalability, revocation, tracing, man‐ in‐the‐middle attacks, space requirements, and multiple keys of the group members. Even so, the procedure is adaptable for cloud computing, group communication as in banks to access group accounts with group signatures, group mobile communication, etc. This framework automates the banking system completely.
Crystal Structure and Site Symmetry of Undoped and Eu3+ Doped Ba2LaSbO6 and BaLaMSbO6 Compounds (M=Mg,Ca): Tuning Europium Site Occupancy to Develop Orange and Red Phosphor
Authors: Phatak Rohan , Pathak Nimai , Muhammed Shafeeq , Sali Sanjay K. , Das Amitabh
Published: November 2018

Double perovskite antimonates of the type BaLaMSbO6 (M=Mg, Ca) were synthesized by a standard solid‐state route. The compounds were characterized by X‐ray crystallography and the structures were refined using Rietveld method. BaLaMgSbO6 and BaLaCaSbO6 crystallized in monoclinic space groups (I2/m) and (P21/n), respectively. In both compounds, La occupied the A‐site of perovskite, which is 12‐coordinated as compared to Ba2LaSbO6 where La ion shifts to the B‐site octahedral coordination due to the larger size of Ba as compared with Mg and Ca. The samples were further characterized using FTIR and the frequency of the octahedral vibration is correlated to the electronegativity of the B‐site ions. Photoluminescence study of the title compounds and Ba2LaSbO6 was carried out upon doping with 2 atom% Eu3+ ion, which confirmed that Eu3+ occupies distorted 12‐coordinated A‐site in BaLaMSbO6 (M=Mg, Ca) and symmetrical octahedral B‐site in Ba2LaSbO6. Furthermore, the emission spectrum corresponding to each Eu3+ ion at different crystal site was successfully isolated through a TRES study. This site selective occupancy of Eu3+ ion also has a direct impact on the light emission, which was found to change from orange to red in a dark room in the order Ba2LaSbO6 : Eu→BaLaCaSbO6 : Eu→BaLaMgSbO6 : Eu. Such an outcome will have high impact in designing new commercial Eu3+ ion doped phosphor materials and tailoring of their optical properties.
The use of hair as a long‐term indicator of low‐dose β2 agonist treatments in cattle: Implications for growth‐promoting purposes monitoring
Authors: Liu Jia , Tang Chaohua , Long Ruijun , Zhang Kai , Han Yunsheng , Zhao Qingyu , Wang Hongliang , Zhao Fuzhong , Meng Qingshi , Zhang Junmin
Published: November 2018

The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of using hair as a long‐term indicator of cocktail (low‐dose β2 agonists) treatments in cattle. Six male Simmental cattle were treated with a mixture of low‐dose clenbuterol, ractopamine, and salbutamol at dosages of 5.3, 223.3, and 50.0 μg/kg, respectively. The trial lasted for 112 days and included 28 days of treatment and 84 days of withdrawal. Plasma and urine samples taken during the treatment period contained the highest residues, with maximum concentrations of clenbuterol, ractopamine, and salbutamol in plasma of 1.49 ng/mL (Day 21), 43.78 (Day 14) ng/mL, and 8.07 ng/mL (Day 7), respectively, and in urine of 62.40 ng/mL (Day 28), 3995.77 ng/mL (Day 28), and 503.72 ng/mL (Day 1), respectively. On day 42 of withdrawal, the residues of all three β2 agonists in plasma were below the limit of quantification (LOQ; 0.3 ng/mL for clenbuterol, and 0.5 ng/mL for ractopamine and salbutamol), and in urine samples were below or near the LOQ (the highest being ractopamine at 1.10 ng/mL). The highest concentrations of clenbuterol, ractopamine, and salbutamol in hair were 88.36, 1351.92, and 100.58 ng/g, respectively, on day 14 of withdrawal; and the residues were long‐lasting, with 7.64, 28.55, and 8.77 ng/g, respectively, on day 84 of withdrawal. The results of this study demonstrate that hair could be utilized as a long‐term indicator of the use of a combination of low‐dose β2 agonists in cattle, which could have implications for growth‐promoting purposes monitoring.
The shadow of the past: Convergence of young and old South American desert lizards as measured by head shape traits
Authors: Aguilar‐Puntriano César , Avila Luciano J. , De la Riva Ignacio , Johnson Leigh , Morando Mariana , Troncoso‐Palacios Jaime , Wood Perry L. , Sites Jack W.
Published: November 2018

Convergence is a pervasive phenomenon in the Tree of Life, and evolution of similar phenotypes sharing the same environmental conditions is expected in phylogenetically closely related species. In contrast, contingent factors are probably more influential in shaping phenotypic diversity for distantly related taxa. Here, we test putative convergent evolution of lizard head morphologies among relatively closely related desert dwellingLiolaemusspecies, and the very distantly relatedCtenoblepharys adspersa. We estimated a multilocus time‐calibrated phylogeny of 57 species of South American liolaemus lizards, based on seven molecular markers. We collected head shape data for 468 specimens, and used three phylogenetic comparative methods (SURFACE, CONVEVOL, and WHEATSHEAF index) to test for and estimate the strength of convergence. We found strong evidence for convergence among Pacific desert lizardC. adspersa,Liolaemus audivetulatus,Liolaemus insolitus,Liolaemus poconchilensis,Liolaemus stolzmanni, and a candidate species (Liolaemus“Moquegua”). Our results suggest that, despite the long divergence and phylogenetic distance ofC. adspersawith respect to convergentLiolaemusspecies, natural selection was probably more important than historical contingency in shaping phenotypic evolution in these desert lizards.
Longitudinal variation in fish prey utilization, trophic guilds, and indicator species along a large subtropical river, China
Authors: Wang Sai , Wang Tuan‐Tuan , Tang Jin‐Peng , Wang Lin , Yang Yang , Lin Hsing‐Juh , Chang Hao‐Yen , Zhou Xing‐An , Li Xing , Wang Ming
Published: November 2018

Due to the heterogeneous distribution of resources along large rivers, understanding prey utilization by basin‐scale fish assemblages remains a challenge, and thus, recognizing regional fish trophic guilds and indicator species is important. We analyzed the stomach contents of 96 fish species along the subtropical East River in China and identified 8 prey items (29 subcategories). Site‐specific differences in fish diet composition (DC) revealed longitudinal shifts in utilized prey taxa, from upstream lotic to downstream semi‐lentic items, and these were characterized by a decrease in the proportions of epilithic diatoms and aquatic insect larvae (Ephemeroptera and Chironomidae) accompanied by an increase in bivalves (Corbicula and Limnoperna), shrimps and fishes, and organic sediments. The relative prey consumption weighted by fish abundance and biomass indicated that decreasing insect consumption and increasing detritus consumption were two fundamental vectors governing fish‐centered feeding pathways. Seventeen prey‐oriented fish guilds that were clustered based on DC matrix determined the spatial variation in the fish trophic structure. The cumulative presence of (a) upstream guilds reliant on insects and epiphytes, (b) midstream guilds reliant on hydrophytes, molluscs, and nekton, and (c) downstream guilds reliant on detritus, annelids, and plankton resulted in a longitudinal increase in guild richness, but this continuity was interrupted near the industrialized estuary. The most abundant 28 fish species across the guilds were selected as trophic indicator species; their spatial distribution significantly (p < 0.05) explained >80% of the environmental and prey variables identified. These species signified the availability of predator–prey links in distinct habitats and the key environmental factors supporting these links. With a high contribution (>51%) of exotic species, an increase in detritivores downstream distinguishes the subtropical East River from temperate rivers. Particularly, in the disturbed lower reaches, the dominance of detritivores prevailed over the predicted increase in other feeding groups (e.g., omnivores and carnivores).
Sympatry or syntopy? Investigating drivers of distribution and co‐occurrence for two imperiled sea turtle species in Gulf of Mexico neritic waters
Authors: Hart Kristen M. , Iverson Autumn R. , Fujisaki Ikuko , Lamont Margaret M. , Bucklin David , Shaver Donna J.
Published: November 2018

Animals co‐occurring in a region (sympatry) may use the same habitat (syntopy) within that region. A central aim in ecology is determining what factors drive species distributions (i.e., abiotic conditions, dispersal limitations, and/or biotic interactions). Assessing the degree of biotic interactions can be difficult for species with wide ranges at sea. This study investigated the spatial ecology of two sea turtle species that forage on benthic invertebrates in neritic GoM waters: Kemp's ridleys (Lepidochelys kempii) and loggerheads (Caretta caretta). We used satellite tracking and modeled behavioral modes, then calculated individual home ranges, compared foraging areas, and determined extent of co‐occurrence. Using six environmental variables and principal component analysis, we assessed similarity of chosen foraging sites. We predicted foraging location (eco‐region) based on species, nesting site, and turtle size. For 127 turtles (64 Kemp's ridleys, 63 loggerheads) tracked from 1989 to 2013, foraging home ranges were nine to ten times larger for Kemp's ridleys than for loggerheads. Species intersected off all U.S. coasts and the Yucatán Peninsula, but co‐occurrence areas were small compared to species' distributions. Kemp's ridley foraging home ranges were concentrated in the northern GoM, whereas those for loggerheads were concentrated in the eastern GoM. The two species were different in all habitat variables compared (latitude, longitude, distance to shore, net primary production, mean sea surface temperature, and bathymetry). Nesting site was the single dominant variable that dictated foraging ecoregion. Although Kemp's ridleys and loggerheads may compete for resources, the separation in foraging areas, significant differences in environmental conditions, and importance of nesting location on ecoregion selection (i.e., dispersal ability) indicate that adult females of these species do not interact greatly during foraging and that dispersal and environmental factors more strongly determine their distributions. These species show sympatry in this region but evidence for syntopy was rare.
Association between lung ultrasound findings and invasive exercise haemodynamics in patients with undifferentiated dyspnoea
Authors: Platz Elke , Merz Allison , Silverman Montane , Lewis Eldrin , Groarke John D. , Waxman Aaron , Systrom David
Published: November 2018

Aims

Dyspnoea is common in heart failure (HF) but non‐specific. Lung ultrasound (LUS) could represent a non‐invasive tool to detect subclinical pulmonary congestion in patients with undifferentiated dyspnoea.

Methods and results

We assessed the feasibility of an abbreviated LUS protocol (eight and two zones) in a prospective pilot study of 25 ambulatory patients with undifferentiated dyspnoea undergoing clinically indicated invasive cardiopulmonary exercise testing (iCPET) at rest (LUS 1) and after peak exercise (LUS 2). We also related LUS findings (B‐lines) to invasive haemodynamics stratified by supine pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) (Congestion, >15 mmHg; Control, ≤15 mmHg). All enrolled patients (median age 68, 60% women, 32% prior HF, median ejection fraction 59%) had interpretable LUS 1 images in eight zones, and 20 (80%) had adequate LUS 2 images. LUS images were adequate in two posterior zones in 24 patients (96%) for LUS 1 and 18 (72%) for LUS 2. Although B‐line number was numerically higher in the Congestion group at rest and after peak exercise, this difference did not reach statistical significance. In the entire cohort, there was an association between B‐lines and rest systolic pulmonary artery pressure (r = 0.46, P = 0.02) and PCWP (r = 0.54, P = 0.005). There was an inverse relationship between B‐lines and peak VO2 (r = −0.65, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Among ambulatory patients with undifferentiated dyspnoea, an abbreviated LUS protocol before and after iCPET is feasible in the majority of patients. B‐line number at rest was associated with invasively measured markers of haemodynamic congestion and was inversely related with peak VO2.
Inhalation exposure to low levels of ethyl tertiary butyl ether: Its genetic effects were significantly modified by ALDH2 activity
Authors: Weng Zuquan , Shi Yuhong , Suda Megumi , Yanagiba Yukie , Kawamoto Toshihiro , Nakajima Tamie , Wang Rui‐Sheng
Published: November 2018

Previous experiments showed that high concentrations of ethyl tertiary butyl ether (ETBE) exposure (500–5,000 ppm) significantly resulted in DNA damages in aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (Aldh2) knockout (KO) mice. This study was aimed to verify the genotoxic effects in three genetic types, Aldh2 KO, heterogeneous (HT), and wild type (WT), of mice exposed to lower concentrations of ETBE (50–500 ppm) by inhalation. Histopathology assessments in the livers, measurements of genotoxic biomarkers in blood and livers, and urinary 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosion (8‐OH‐dG) for the oxidative DNA damage of whole body were performed. Significant histopathological changes and DNA strand breaks both in hepatocytes and leukocytes were found in HT and KO male mice exposed to ≥200 ppm ETBE, but not in 50 ppm ETBE. 8‐OH‐dG levels either in liver or urine were higher in the HT and KO male mice exposed to ≥200 ppm ETBE. The pathological and genetic effects of ETBE were almost at the same extents for HT and KO mice. Thus, 50 ppm could be the no observed adverse effect level for ETBE in HT and KO male mice, which was far lower than the 500 ppm in WT mice. These results suggested that decrease and deficiency of ALDH2 activity would significantly increase the sensitivity to ETBE‐induced genotoxicity as well as hepatotoxic effects after exposure even to low concentrations of ETBE. Environ. Mol. Mutagen. 60: 145–153, 2019. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Exergy Analysis of Adsorption Cooling Systems Based on Numerical Simulation
Authors: Cao Ngoc Vi , Chung Jae Dong
Published: November 2018

Adsorption cooling system is driven by low‐grade heat sources and is an eco‐friendly system, is therefore considered a potential alternative to the traditional vapor‐compression refrigeration system. An exergy analysis is a tool for identifying the details of energy degradation of each process and component, but there is a critical limitation in previous works which assumed there was no spatial variation in the adsorption beds, i. e., the lumped capacity method. We have conducted both an energy and exergy analysis of an adsorption cooling system. The exergy analysis was conducted based on detailed information obtained from the CFD results of energy analysis. The numerical results provide detailed information which varies in time and space, free of the assumptions used in lumped capacity methods, by including the effects of geometric features (fin height, fin spacing, tube diameter, and thickness) and, the contact resistance between sorbent material and metallic finned tube, which affirmatively enhance the accuracy of the exergy analysis. Finally, we analyze the effect of several main parameters from the view point of the 2nd law of thermodynamics. The results show that increases in the temperature of the heat sources leads to an increase in energy performance while the exergy efficiency decreases; increases in the cooling water temperature reduces the COP, SCP, and ηex. An increase in cycle time improves the COP and ηex but reduces the SCP.
Comprehensive Environmental Impacts and Optimization of Onshore Shale Gas Development and Delivery
Authors: Bista Sangita , Jennings Philip , Anda Martin
Published: November 2018

The environmental impact of shale gas hydraulic fracturing is not completely understood. Therefore, the objective of this paper is to estimate the lifecycle environmental impact of shale gas production per mega joule (MJ) of energy extracted and delivered. The analysis is based on using CML 2001‐Apr 2015 methods in GaBi software on a case study of a shale gas well. The global warming potential (GWP100) ranges from 54 to 99 g CO2e /MJ with a central estimate of 72 g CO2e /MJ. The GWP 100, including land use change, is 230 g CO2e /MJ. The best‐case scenario, with no venting of the gas, has the minimum GWP 100 impact. Shale gas has a high marine ecotoxicity potential, among other environmental impacts. Bentonite contributes the most to the abiotic depletion potential elements impact. The frac water contributes the most to the freshwater aquatic ecotoxicity potential (FAETP) impact. Mercury (Hg) and radioactive elements (e.g., radon) are the major pollutants contributing to the terrestrial ecotoxicity potential impacts. The findings of this study can be used for optimization of the processes used by mining and exploration companies.
Bi2S3 Nanorods Bonding on Reduced Graphene Oxide Surface as Advanced Anode Materials for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Sheng , Gao Cong , Hua Di , Wang Guang , Guo Shaohua , Qiu Jingxia , Su Xintai
Published: November 2018

Exploring novel electrode materials with high rate capability and outstanding cycling stability is an urgent issue for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). Herein, Bi2S3 nanorods anchoring on reduced graphene oxide (Bi2S3@rGO composite) are designed and synthesized for sodium storage applications. With the contributions from the unique structure, the surface C—S bonds on rGO, and the synergetic effects from the components, the composite delivers remarkable electrochemical performances. The results indicate that the strategy of chemically constructing a composite structure can be very promising for advanced electrodes of SIBs.
Simultaneous catalytic reduction of N2O and NOx for tertiary N2O abatement technology: A field study in a nitric acid production plant
Authors: Lee Seung‐Jae , Ryu In‐Soo , Jeon Sang‐Goo , Moon Seung‐Hyun
Published: November 2018

To investigate the feasibility of the simultaneous abatement of N2O and NOx in a single reactor, this field study was performed in a nitric acid production plant. An Fe/BEA powder catalyst prepared by Fe ion‐exchange with steam‐treated BEA zeolite was extruded in pellets and honeycombs. In the simultaneous reduction of N2O and NOx, the pellet‐ and honeycomb‐type catalysts showed more than a 90% and 95% conversion of N2O and NOx, respectively, at a reaction temperature between 350 °C and 380 °C which is typical for the DeNOx process. The catalytic performance of the pellets and honeycombs was also stable during the reactor operation period. With higher N2O and NOx conversions of over 90%, NH3 concentration in exhaust gas streams can be reduced to satisfy domestic regulations for air pollutant emissions. Accordingly, it is suggested that the simultaneous reduction of N2O and NOx in a single reactor with the Fe/BEA catalyst may be a reasonable option for a tertiary abatement technology for nitric acid production plants.

Novelty or Significance: The simultaneous catalytic reduction of N2O and NOx in a tail gas from a nitric acid production plant was investigated with Fe/BEA catalysts prepared by Fe ion‐exchange with steam‐treated BEA zeolite. Pellet‐ and honeycomb‐type catalysts were applied to abatement using NH3 as the reducing agent. Over 90% of N2O and NOx from the nitric acid production process was simultaneously removed from a single reactor at a reaction temperature between 350 °C and 380 °C. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 38: 451–456, 2019
Flow dynamics over a foredune scarp
Authors: Piscioneri Ned , Smyth Thomas A.G. , Hesp Patrick A.
Published: November 2018

The nature of wind flow over a small, 0.6 m high foredune scarp is investigated on the Sir Richard Peninsula, South Australia during a variety of incident wind directions and speeds. The study provides additional supporting evidence that the presence of the scarp and the dune exerts a strong influence on a landwards trending reduction in wind velocity and an increase in turbulence, with the greatest area of turbulence occurring near and at the foredune scarp base. For an incident oblique wind, an alongshore helicoidal flow is formed within a separation region along the scarp basal region. In this region, the coefficient of variation (CV) of wind speed is high and displays significant fluctuations. The flow at the scarp crest is compressed, streamlined and accelerated, turbulence is suppressed, and local jets may occur depending on the incident wind approach angle. Jets are more likely where the incident flow is perpendicular or nearly so. A flow separation region does not develop downwind of the scarp crest where the morphology of the foredune stoss slope downwind of the scarp is more convex (as in this case) rather than relatively flat, and possibly due to the presence of vegetation at the scarp crest. A tentative model of the flow regions developed across a backshore–scarp–foredune region during oblique incident flow is provided. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A comprehensive survey on handover management for vehicular ad hoc network based on 5G mobile networks technology
Authors: Ahmed Adel A. , Alzahrani Ahmad A.
Published: November 2018

Vehicular ad hoc network (VANET) is a style of high‐mobility mobile ad hoc network where the mobile nodes are vehicles traveling across a road or a street. VANET was proposed to provide safety, comfortability, reliability, and security of vehicles driving. One of the serious challenges is handover (HO) problem that occurs when a vehicle moves from one network area covered by a roadside unit (RSU) to another network area covered by a different RSU. The fast mobility of vehicles and the limited coverage area of the RSU (without overlapping signals) should be considered in providing a seamless HO. This paper presents a comprehensive survey on HO management for VANET based on the new features of fifth‐generation (5G) mobile network technologies. The 5G mobile network technology provides enhanced characteristics that will fit the requirements of real‐time video streaming and assist to design an effective solution for the HO problem. In addition, this paper presents the reasons for HO failures and the limitations of available HO failure solutions. Furthermore, it highlights the potential proposed solutions that will tackle the HO failures. This survey will open up the gate of developing an optimal solution based on 5G for HO problem on VANET that might be used in vehicles manufacturing.
In vitro antihypertensive and antioxidative properties of trypsin‐derived Moringa oleifera seed globulin hydrolyzate and its membrane fractions
Authors: Aderinola Taiwo Ayodele , Fagbemi Tayo Nathaniel , Enujiugha Victor Ndigwe , Alashi Adeola Monisola , Aluko Rotimi Emmanuel
Published: November 2018

Moringa oleifera seed globulin was hydrolyzed with trypsin and fractionated to produce <1, 1–3, and 3–5 kDa peptide sizes. These were evaluated for antioxidant properties: DPPH, hydroxyl radical scavenging assays, FRAP, and metal chelation tests; and in vitro antihypertensive properties: ACE and renin inhibition. Membrane fractionation led to improved antioxidative properties of 29.13% (<1 kDa), 180% (<1 kDa), and 30.58% (1–3 kDa) for DPPH, FRAP, and metal iron chelation, respectively. There was however 48.77% reduction (1–3 kDa) in hydroxyl radical scavenging activity. There was also improvement in ACE inhibitory potentials of the peptides with the 1–3 kDa peptide showing significantly highest ACE inhibition (72.48%)but very low (17.64%, 1–3 kDa) inhibition against the renin. It was concluded that hydrolysis of M oleifera seed globulin with trypsin produced peptides and peptide fractions with potential antioxidant and antihypertensive properties.
Effect of processing and soybean cultivar on natto quality using response surface methodology
Authors: Pradhananga Mahalaxmi
Published: November 2018

In an attempt to commercialize the traditional technology of fermenting soybean into natto on laboratory scale using three locally available soybean varieties, that is, white, black, and brown, response surface methodology (RSM) was used to determine the optimum combination of two factors, that is, the effect of steaming time (20–50 min) and fermentation time (12–48 hr). Thirteen samples from each variety were formulated which were packed in low‐density polyethylene for LDPE using the isolated culture from the natto sample and incubated at 37°C, and the sensory data were analyzed by using Design Expert (RSM). All the responses (taste, hardness, thread/stickiness, and overall acceptance) were significantly (p < 0.05) affected by the two variables except appearance for all three varieties of natto prepared. The optimum combinations of steaming time (min) and fermentation time (hr) were found for white soybean natto (33.4 min and 34.5 hr), for black soybean natto (34.7 min and 30.9 hr), and for brown soybean natto (33.2 min and 34.9 hr), respectively. The proximate composition of soybean and best three formulated natto obtained after sensory evaluation from 13 samples of each variety were studied, that is, moisture, crude protein, pH, calcium, and iron on dry basis found to have increased, whereas carbohydrate and crude fiber found to have slightly decreased, but crude fat and ash found to be almost equal on three varieties than the raw soybean used. Microbiologically, the product was hygienic and safe as coliform and salmonella were not detected.
Informed trading around earnings announcements—Spot, futures, or options?
Authors: Jain Sonali , Agarwalla Sobhesh Kumar , Varma Jayanth R. , Pandey Ajay
Published: November 2018

Recent literature reports higher single stock options (SSO) volume before earnings announcements (EA). There are no studies that explore single stock futures (SSF) in this context because of illiquid SSF markets in developed countries. Similar to SSO, SSF provide embedded leverage and facilitate short selling although at a lower cost, but do not provide downside‐risk protection. India’s liquid SSO and SSF provide a unique setting to study the preference of informed traders. We observe an increase in both SSO and SSF volume before EA. Further, SSF dominate SSO possibly due to SSO becoming expensive before EA and higher information leakage in India.
Telomere elongation through hTERT immortalization leads to chromosome repositioning in control cells and genomic instability in Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome fibroblasts, expressing a novel SUN1 isoform
Authors: Bikkul Mehmet U. , Faragher Richard G. A. , Worthington Gemma , Meinke Peter , Kerr Alastair R. W. , Sammy Aakila , Riyahi Kumars , Horton Daniel , Schirmer Eric C. , Hubank Michael , Kill Ian R. , Anderson Rhona M. , Slijepcevic Predrag , Makarov Evgeny , Bridger Joanna M.
Published: November 2018

Immortalizing primary cells with human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) has been common practice to enable primary cells to be of extended use in the laboratory because they avoid replicative senescence. Studying exogenously expressed hTERT in cells also affords scientists models of early carcinogenesis and telomere behavior. Control and the premature ageing disease—Hutchinson‐Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS) primary dermal fibroblasts, with and without the classical G608G mutation have been immortalized with exogenous hTERT. However, hTERT immortalization surprisingly elicits genome reorganization not only in disease cells but also in the normal control cells, such that whole chromosome territories normally located at the nuclear periphery in proliferating fibroblasts become mislocalized in the nuclear interior. This includes chromosome 18 in the control fibroblasts and both chromosomes 18 and X in HGPS cells, which physically express an isoform of the LINC complex protein SUN1 that has previously only been theoretical. Additionally, this HGPS cell line has also become genomically unstable and has a tetraploid karyotype, which could be due to the novel SUN1 isoform. Long‐term treatment with the hTERT inhibitor BIBR1532 enabled the reduction of telomere length in the immortalized cells and resulted that these mislocalized internal chromosomes to be located at the nuclear periphery, as assessed in actively proliferating cells.

Taken together, these findings reveal that elongated telomeres lead to dramatic chromosome mislocalization, which can be restored with a drug treatment that results in telomere reshortening and that a novel SUN1 isoform combined with elongated telomeres leads to genomic instability. Thus, care should be taken when interpreting data from genomic studies in hTERT‐immortalized cell lines.
Use of nanoparticles Cu/TiO(OH)2 for CO2 removal with K2CO3/KHCO3 based solution: enhanced thermal conductivity and reaction kinetics enhancing the CO2 sorption/desorption performance of K2CO3/KHCO3
Authors: Liu Wei , Wu Ye , Cai Tianyi , Chen Xiaoping , Liu Dong
Published: November 2018

Global climate change resulting from substantial CO2 emissions is increasingly attracting attention, and coal‐fired power plants are a major source of CO2 emission, so it is necessary to control and reduce CO2 emissions from power plants. Using alkali‐based solutions for CO2 capture is thought to be an effective method to achieve this but poor CO2 sorption/desorption kinetics inhibit its development. The use of nanofluids, prepared by adding nanoparticles to an alkali‐based solution, is a promising way to improve CO2 sorption/desorption reactivity because the addition of nanoparticles not only improves the gas‐liquid mass/heat transfer but also enhances the reaction kinetics. In this paper, a nanostructured Cu/TiO(OH)2 was prepared and used to accelerate the CO2 sorption/desorption performance of a potassium‐based solution. The CO2 sorption/desorption reaction rates increased with the thermal conductivity of the nanofluid but the inclusion of more nanoparticles resulted in particle sedimentation. The potassium‐based solution containing 0.014 vol% of the nanostructured Cu/TiO(OH)2 was therefore the targeted nanofluid that gave the best CO2 sorption/desorption performance and cyclic stability. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical and neuroimaging risk factors for cognitive decline in community‐dwelling older adults living in rural Ecuador. A population‐based prospective cohort study
Authors: Del Brutto Oscar H. , Mera Robertino M. , Del Brutto Victor J. , Zambrano Mauricio , Wright Clinton B. , Rundek Tatjana
Published: November 2018

Objective

There is limited information on factors influencing cognitive decline in rural settings from low‐ and middle‐income countries. Using the Atahualpa Project cohort, we aimed to assess the burden of cognitive decline in older adults living in a rural Ecuadorian village.

Methods

The study included Atahualpa residents aged greater than or equal to 60 years who had a follow‐up Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) repeated at least 1 year after baseline. MoCA decline was assessed by multivariable longitudinal linear models, adjusted for demographics, days between MoCA tests, cardiovascular risk factors, and neuroimaging signatures of structural brain damage.

Results

We included 252 individuals who contributed 923.7 person‐years of follow‐up (mean: 3.7 ± 0.7 years). The mean baseline MoCA was 19.5 ± 4.5 points, and the follow‐up MoCA was 18.1 ± 4.9 points (P = 0.001). Overall, 154 individuals (61%) had lower MoCA scores at follow‐up. The best fitted longitudinal linear model showed a decline of follow‐up MoCA from baseline (β: 0.14; 95% CI, 0.0‐0.21; P < 0.001). High glucose levels, global cortical atrophy, and white matter hyperintensities were independently and significantly associated with greater MoCA decline.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence of cognitive decline in older adults living in a rural setting. Main targets for prevention should include glucose control and the control of factors that are deleterious for the development of cortical atrophy and white matter hyperintensities.
Reactions of aminopyrimidine derivatives with chloroacetyl and isophthaloyl chlorides
Authors: Çimen Zeynep , Akkoç Senem , Kökbudak Zülbiye
Published: November 2018

1‐Aminopyrimidine‐2‐one derivatives (1a‐c) were prepared in two steps from furan‐2,3‐diones and semicarbazones in toluene/benzene. Pyrimidin‐[1(2H)‐yl] acetamide derivatives and isophthalimide derivatives were synthesized from the nucleophilic acyl substitution reactions of compounds 1a‐c with chloroacetyl chloride. The structures of compounds 2a‐f were verified by IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and elemental analyses. The obtained final organic compounds were tested as catalysts in the Mizoroki‐Heck coupling reaction. They mostly exhibited very high catalytic activity results for the coupling reaction of styrene with different aryl bromide derivatives.
Diagnostic accuracy of chest ultrasound in patients with pneumonia in the intensive care unit: A single‐hospital study
Authors: Bitar Zouheir Ibrahim , Maadarani Ossama Sajeh , El‐Shably AlAsmar Mohammed , Al‐Ajmi Mubarak Juwaied
Published: November 2018

Background and aims

Chest radiography (CXR) and computerized tomography (CT) scan are the preferred methods for lung imaging in diagnosing pneumonia in the intensive care unit, in spite of their limitations. The aim of this study was to assess the performance of bedside lung ultrasound examination by a critical care physician, compared with CXR and chest CT, in the diagnosis of acute pneumonia in the ICU.

Materials and Methods

This was an observational, prospective, single‐center study conducted in the intensive care unit of Ahmadi General Hospital. Lung ultrasound examinations (LUSs) were performed by trained critical care physicians, and a chest radiograph was interpreted by another critical care physician blinded to the LUS results. CT scans were obtained when clinically indicated by the senior physician.

Results

Out of 92 patients with suspected pneumonia, 73 (79.3%) were confirmed to have a diagnosis of pneumonia based on radiological reports, clinical progress, inflammatory markers, and microbiology studies. Of the 73 patients, 31 (42.5%) were male, with a mean age of 68.3 years, and a range of 27 to 94 years. Eleven (15%) patients had community‐acquired pneumonia, and 62 (85%) had hospital‐acquired pneumonia. In the group of patients with confirmed pneumonia, 72 (98.6%) had LUSs positive for consolidation (sensitivity 98.6%, 95% CI 92.60%‐99.97%), and in the group without pneumonia, 16 (85%) had LUS negative for consolidation (specificity 84.2%, 95% CI 60.42%‐96.62%), compared with 40 (55%) with CXRs positive for consolidation (sensitivity 54.8%, 95% CI 42.70%‐66.48%) and 33 (45%) with CXRs negative for consolidation (specificity 63.16%, 95% CI 38.36%‐83.71%).

A chest CT was performed in 38 of the 92 enrolled patients and was diagnostic for pneumonia in 32 cases. LUSs were positive in 31 of 32 patients with CT‐confirmed pneumonia (sensitivity 96%), and CXR was positive in 5 of 32 patients with CT‐confirmed pneumonia (sensitivity 15.6%).

Conclusion

Bedside lung ultrasound is a reliable and accurate tool that appears to be superior to CXR for diagnosing pneumonia in the ICU setting. LUS allows for a faster, non‐invasive, and radiation‐free method to diagnose pneumonia in the ICU.