bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogen Sulfide Corrosion of Carbon and Stainless Steel Alloys in Mixtures of Renewable Fuel Sources under Co-Processing Conditions
Authors: Gergely Andras , Szabo Peter , Krojer Antal , Nagy Bence , Kristof Tamas
Published: March 2018

Corrosion rates of steel alloys were investigated in gas oil and its mixture with waste cooking oil and animal waste lard over 1, 3, 7 and 21 days under desulfurizing condition. Co-processing conditions were attempted to simulate by batch-reactor experiment at temperatures between 200 and 300oC and pressures between 20 and 90 bar in the presence of 2 volume% hydrogen sulfide. Integral and differential corrosion rates were defined by weight losses. Intense sulfide corrosion of carbon steels was less impacted by the biomass sources. Thinner scales in gas oil was probably due to frequent cohesive failure, whereas thicker layers in biomass mixtures were allowed to form to afford limited physical protection. The high corrosion rate of low alloy steel with temperature over time is related to inefficient protection by the metal sulfide scales. Greater activation energy and enthalpy balance in the formation of activated complex is expected to reflect in thick cohesive scales. Loose layers and the less unfavorable entropy balance in the transition state did not lead to valuable barrier protection. High sulfide corrosion resistance of stainless steels is in chemical in nature markedly impacted by the biomass fuel sources and contributed especially by the acidic species. Corrosion rates increased with temperature by magnitude similar to those of carbon steels, which probably owes to the less unfavorable entropy and free energy balance between the initial and transition states of the reactants.
The value of different vegetative indices (NDVI, GAI) for the assessment of yield potential of pea (Pisum sativum L.) at different growth stages and under varying management practices
Authors: Klimek-Kopyra Agnieszka , Zając Tadeusz , Oleksy Andrzej , Kulig Bogdan , Ślizowska Anna
Published: March 2018

This research evaluated the NDVI (normalized difference vegetation index) and GAI (green area index) in order to indicate the productivity and developmental effects of Rhizobium inoculants and microelement foliar fertilizer on pea crops. Two inoculants, Nitragina (a commercial inoculant) and IUNG (a noncommercial inoculant gel) and a foliar fertilizer (Photrel) were studied over a 4-year period, 2009–2012. The cultivars chosen for the studies were characterized by different foliage types, namely a semileafless pea ‘Tarchalska’ and one with regular foliage, ‘Klif’. Foliar fertilizer significantly increased the length of the generative shoots and the number of fruiting nodes in comparison to the control, which in turn had a negative impact on the harvest index. Pea seed yield was highly dependent on the interaction between the years of growth and the microbial inoculant, and was greater for ‘Tarchalska’ (4.33 t ha−1). Presowing inoculation of seeds and foliar fertilization resulted in a significantly higher value of GAI at the flowering (3.91 and 3.81, respectively) and maturity stages (4.82 and 4.77, respectively), whereas the value of NDVI was higher for these treatments only at the maturity stage (0.67 and 0.79, respectively). A significantly greater yield (5.0–5.4 t ha−1) was obtained after inoculation with IUNG during the dry years.
Tracking Trout: Engaging Students in Modeling
Authors: Alhammouri Ahmad M. , Foley Gregory D. , Dael Kevin
Published: March 2018

After months of solving real-world problems, high school students enact the full modeling cycle supported by peers, teachers, and technology.
Open-Ended Questions: A Critical Class Component
Authors: Sole Marla A.
Published: March 2018

This article aims to encourage teachers to embed open-ended problems into their teaching repertoire by linking the strong support found in the research literature for these types of questions with concrete recommendations for pedagogical practice.
Minecraft Comes to Math Class
Authors: Moore Kimberly
Published: March 2018

Eighth-grade students use a character from Minecraft® to explore surface area and volume, resulting in the creation of a three-dimensional “Cylindrical Steve.”
Get MAAAD at Those Apps!
Authors: Johnson Teri N. , Tucker Stephen I.
Published: March 2018

During the past thirty years, various forms of technology have facilitated teaching and learning. Recently, touchscreen tablets are among the devices growing in popularity. Many mathematics apps are available; however, they vary in their usefulness for different users. Monitoring students' interactions with selected apps is important for teachers to do to ensure that earners are benefiting from technology integration. The Modification of Attributes, Affordances, Abilities, and Distance (MAAAD) for Learning Framework (see fig. 1) emerged from evaluations of students' interactions with educational technology (Tucker 2016). Teachers can use this framework to select apps for use in the classroom, formatively assess student understanding, and evaluate the appropriateness of tasks presented by apps.
Reflecting on Standards When Lesson Planning
Authors: Earnest Darrell , Amador Julie M.
Published: March 2018

Share news about happenings in the field of elementary school mathematics education, views on matters pertaining to teaching and learning mathematics in the early childhood or elementary school years, and reactions to previously published opinion pieces or articles. Find detailed department submission guidelines at http://www.nctm.org/WriteForTCM.
S'more Fraction Fun
Authors: Currie Stephen
Published: March 2018

This article presents solutions to the April 2017 problem scenario, which offers students the opportunity to explore many ways to partition a square. Students can generate ideas about halves, thirds, and fourths through the exploration of squares and rectangles. Students can also recognize that equal shares do not necessarily have to be congruent. Each month, this section of the Problem Solvers department showcases students' in-depth thinking and discusses the classroom results of using problems presented in previous issues of Teaching Children Mathematics.
International Branch Campuses: Success Factors
Authors: Garrett Richard
Published: March 2018

The article provides an overview of the second part of a report on international branch campuses (IBCs). The Observatory on Borderless Higher Education (OBHE) and the Cross-Border Education Research Team (C-BERT) are the authors of the report. IBCs continue to grow in number and variety around the world, and the report includes updated estimates and patterns by country, but previously there has been limited attention paid to the success factors of mature IBCs. Defined as campuses in place for a decade or more, the report draws on in-depth interviews with campus and institutional leaders.
Mexico’s Strong and Sustained Private Growth: What Is Government’s Role?
Authors: Arenas Jorge , Levy Daniel C.
Published: March 2018

Mexican private higher education (PHE) enrollment now approaches one million students, though government's role in this increase is complex. This article explores drivers of growth and associated government policy (or lack thereof).
The New National Rankings in India
Authors: Varghese N.V.
Published: March 2018

India started ranking its higher education institutions in 2015. Although a major share of higher education institutions in India are private, public institutions dominate the ranking list. The ranking exercise is not a substitute to improve the overall quality of the system, since a large majority of higher education institutions in India do not participate in the exercise. India needs to adopt more effective strategies to improve the overall quality of higher education, by focusing on research and teaching–learning processes at the institutional level.
Restoring biodiversity in the Mediterranean coralligenous - the MERCES project
Authors: Cerrano Carlo , Bakran-Petricioli Tatjana , Boavida Joana , Ferretti Eliana , Gari Andrea , Gomez-Gras Daniel , Gori Andrea , Hereu Bernat , Kipson Silvija , Ledoux Jean-Baptiste , Linares Cristina , López-Sanz Àngel , López-Sendino Paula , Milanese Martina , Montero-Serra Ignasi , Pagès Marta , Sarà Antonio , Pica Daniela , Serrao Ester , Torsani Fabrizio , Viladrich Núria , Garrabou Joaquim
Published: March 2018

The temperate coralligenous bioconcretions are mainly built by the accumulation of encrusting coralline algae growing at low irradiance levels. They harbour approximately 10% of marine Mediterranean species (about 1600 species), including long-lived algae and invertebrates. Enhanced by climate change, several pressures affect coralligenous assemblages, leading to increased frequency of mass mortalities and dramatic loss of habitat complexity and biodiversity. The EU-funded project MERCES is developing innovative methodologies to restore macroinvertebrate habitat-forming species from three key taxonomic groups: Cnidaria/Anthozoa, Porifera/Demospongiae and Bryozoa. Restoration protocols are based on fragments/transplants from donor organisms and recruitment-enhancing devices. Collaboration with volunteers (divers and diving operators) in several phases of field activities proved crucial both to minimize underwater working time and to increase the sense of stewardship in a major users’ segment. Additionally, the MERCES project explores how to enhance restoration success by identifying the mechanisms conferring resistance to thermal stress in gorgonians. This is pursued by coupling thermotolerance experiments with next generation sequencing tools and facilitation processes (by comparing the outcomes of mono-specific vs. multi-specific transplanted assemblages). Results will be included in the strategic planning of restoration efforts in the Mediterranean in the context of global change.
The KINDRA project: sharing and evaluating groundwater research and knowledge in Europe
Authors: Petitta Marco , Bodo Balazs , Cseko Adrienn , Del Bon Andrea , Fernandez Isabel , García Alibrandi Clint M. , Garcia Padilla Mercedes , Hartai Eva , Hinsby Klaus , Muller Peter , Mikita Viktoria , Szucs Peter , Van der Keur Peter
Published: March 2018

Groundwater knowledge and research in the European Union is often scattered and non-standardised, because of different subjects involved and different approaches from Member States. The Horizon2020 project KINDRA has conducted an EU-wide assessment of existing groundwater-related practical and scientific knowledge based on a new Hydrogeological Research Classification System, identifying more than 280 keywords related to three main categories (namely Operational Actions, Research topics and Societal Challenges) to be intersected in a 3D-diagram approach. The classification is supported by a web-service, the European Inventory of Groundwater Research, which acts not only as knowledge repository but also as a tool to help identify relevant research topics, existing research trends and critical research challenges. The records have been uploaded during the project by 20 national experts from National Associations of Geologists, under the umbrella of the European Federation of Geologists. The total number of metadata included in the inventory at the end of the project are about 2300, and the analysis of the results is considered useful for producing synergies, implementing policies and optimising water management in Europe. By the use of additional indicators, the database content has been analysed by occurrence of keywords, type of document, level of innovation. Using the three-axes classification, more easily understandable by 2D diagrams as bubble plots, occurrence and relationship of different topics (main categories) in groundwater research have been highlighted. This article summarizes the activities realized in relation to the common classification system and to the metadata included in the EIGR, showing the distribution of the collected information in different categories and attributes identified by the classification.
Comparative genome analysis of 24 bovine-associatedStaphylococcusisolates with special focus on the putative virulence genes
Authors: Åvall-Jääskeläinen Silja , Taponen Suvi , Kant Ravi , Paulin Lars , Blom Jochen , Palva Airi , Koort Joanna
Published: March 2018

Non-aureus staphylococci (NAS) are most commonly isolated from subclinical mastitis. Different NAS species may, however, have diverse effects on the inflammatory response in the udder. We determined the genome sequences of 20 staphylococcal isolates from clinical or subclinical bovine mastitis, belonging to the NAS speciesStaphylococcus agnetis, S. chromogenes,andS. simulans, and focused on the putative virulence factor genes present in the genomes. For comparison we used our previously published genome sequences of fourS. aureusisolates from bovine mastitis. The pan-genome and core genomes of the non-aureus isolates were characterized. After that, putative virulence factor orthologues were searchedin silico. We compared the presence of putative virulence factors in the NAS species andS. aureusand evaluated the potential association between bacterial genotype and type of mastitis (clinical vs. subclinical). The NAS isolates had much less virulence gene orthologues than theS. aureusisolates. One third of the virulence genes were detected only inS. aureus. About 100 virulence genes were present in allS. aureusisolates, compared to about 40 to 50 in each NAS isolate.S. simulansdiffered the most. Several of the virulence genes detected among NAS were harbored only byS. simulans, but it also lacked a number of genes present both inS. agnetisandS. chromogenes. The type of mastitis was not associated with any specific virulence gene profile. It seems that the virulence gene profiles or cumulative number of different virulence genes are not directly associated with the type of mastitis (clinical or subclinical), indicating that host derived factors such as the immune status play a pivotal role in the manifestation of mastitis.
Nanomedicine Approaches Against Parasitic Worm Infections
Authors: Li Pengyang , Rios Coronado Pamela E. , Longstaff Xóchitl R. R. , Tarashansky Alexander J. , Wang Bo
Published: March 2018

Nanomedicine approaches have the potential to transform the battle against parasitic worm (helminth) infections, a major global health scourge from which billions are currently suffering. It is anticipated that the intersection of two currently disparate fields, nanomedicine and helminth biology, will constitute a new frontier in science and technology. This progress report surveys current innovations in these research fields and discusses research opportunities. In particular, the focus is on: (1) major challenges that helminth infections impose on mankind; (2) key aspects of helminth biology that inform future research directions; (3) efforts to construct nanodelivery platforms to target drugs and genes to helminths hidden in their hosts; (4) attempts in applying nanotechnology to enable vaccination against helminth infections; (5) outlooks in utilizing nanoparticles to enhance immunomodulatory activities of worm‐derived factors to cure allergy and autoimmune diseases. In each section, achievements are summarized, limitations are explored, and future directions are assessed.
New BiVO4 Dual Photoanodes with Enriched Oxygen Vacancies for Efficient Solar‐Driven Water Splitting
Authors: Wang Songcan , Chen Peng , Bai Yang , Yun Jung‐Ho , Liu Gang , Wang Lianzhou
Published: March 2018

Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) is a promising photoanode material for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. However, owing to the short carrier diffusion length, the trade‐off between sufficient light absorption and efficient charge separation often leads to poor PEC performance. Herein, a new electrodeposition process is developed to prepare bismuth oxide precursor films, which can be converted to transparent BiVO4 films with well‐controlled oxygen vacancies via a mild thermal treatment process. The optimized BiVO4 film exhibits an excellent back illumination charge separation efficiency mainly due to the presence of enriched oxygen vacancies which act as shallow donors. By loading FeOOH/NiOOH as the cocatalysts, the BiVO4 dual photoanodes exhibit a remarkable and highly stable photocurrent density of 5.87 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode under AM 1.5 G illumination. An artificial leaf composed of the BiVO4/FeOOH/NiOOH dual photoanodes and a single sealed perovskite solar cell delivers a solar‐to‐hydrogen conversion efficiency as high as 6.5% for unbiased water splitting.
Synthesis of Piperidine Derivatives by Rhodium‐ Catalyzed Tandem Reaction of N‐Sulfonyl‐1,2,3‐Triazole and Vinyl Ether
Authors: Yu Sisi , An Yuehui , Wang Wenlin , Xu Ze‐Feng , Li Chuan‐Ying
Published: March 2018

A chemoselective tandem reaction of 4‐acyloxymethylene‐1‐sulfonyl‐1,2,3‐triazole and vinyl ether was reported, producing polysubstituted piperidine derivatives in up to 96% yield. The key intermediate N‐sulfonyl 1‐azadiene generated by migration of the OAc group to the α‐imino rhodium carbene was isolated and a plausible mechanism was proposed. Several related ring systems were constructed from the highly functionalized products.

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Lewis Acid Doping Induced Synergistic Effects on Electronic and Morphological Structure for Donor and Acceptor in Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Yan Han , Chen Jianya , Zhou Ke , Tang Yabing , Meng Xiangyi , Xu Xianbin , Ma Wei
Published: March 2018

Due to the attraction of optimizing the electronic structure beyond chemical synthesis, molecular doping has recently aroused wide interest in the field of organic solar cells. However, the selection of limited dopants confines its successful application. Inspired by the Lewis base characteristics of the photovoltaic materials, the Lewis acid as novel dopant is introduced in organic solar cells. In both fullerene and nonfullerene based blends, Lewis acid doping leads to increased photovoltaic performance. Detailed experiments reveal that Lewis acid doping has a synergistic effect on modifying the polymer's electronic properties and the acceptor's nanostructure even at low doping concentration, and these are simultaneously responsible for the device improvements. Based on the mechanism studies, it is proposed that the Lewis acid‐doped polymers anions produce induced dipole on the acceptor, this increases the intermolecular interaction and facilitates the morphology optimization. It is believed that the synergistic effect by Lewis acid doping greatly expands the application of doped organic solar cells, in concert with other existing methods to yield higher efficiency values.
Lacrimal sac exposure and a superior lateral anterior pedicle flap to improve outcomes of Draf type II and III procedures
Authors: Omura Kazuhiro , Nomura Kazuhiro , Aoki Satoshi , Katori Yukio , Tanaka Yasuhiro , Otori Nobuyoshi
Published: March 2018

Background

Although the efficacy of Draf type II and III procedures for frontal sinus diseases is well recognized, a certain amount of postoperative stenosis of the frontal neo‐ostium occurs. Exposed bone induces inflammation and leads to osteoneogenesis. To prevent stenosis, we developed a surgical technique designed to minimize bone exposure while maximizing the frontal neo‐ostium area created with Draf type II and III procedures. We fully exposed the lacrimal sac and used a superior lateral anterior pedicle flap to cover the exposed bone during the Draf procedure. We aimed to describe our technique.

Methods

We reviewed 19 patients who underwent a Draf type II or III procedure with our technique. Endoscopic views from the follow‐ups and complications were evaluated.

Results

Overall, the neo‐ostium remained patent in all patients. No complications, such as synechiae or orbital injury, were seen in any of the patients.

Conclusion

Draf type II and III procedures with lacrimal sac exposure and a superior lateral anterior pedicle flap are convenient and seem to be effective. However, further studies with larger numbers of patients are needed to verify our technique.
Construct and criterion validity testing of the Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons (NOTSS) behaviour assessment tool using videos of simulated operations
Authors: Yule S , Gupta A , Gazarian D , Geraghty A , Smink D S , Beard J , Sundt T , Youngson G , McIlhenny C , Paterson-Brown S
Published: March 2018

Background

Surgeons' non-technical skills are an important part of surgical performance and surgical education. The most widely adopted assessment tool is the Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons (NOTSS) behaviour rating system. Psychometric analysis of this tool to date has focused on inter-rater reliability and feasibility rather than validation.

Methods

NOTSS assessments were collected from two groups of consultant/attending surgeons in the UK and USA, who rated behaviours of the lead surgeon during a video-based simulated crisis scenario after either online or classroom instruction. The process of validation consisted of assessing construct validity, scale reliability and concurrent criterion validity, and undertaking a sensitivity analysis. Central to this was confirmatory factor analysis to evaluate the structure of the NOTSS taxonomy.

Results

Some 255 consultant surgeons participated in the study. The four-category NOTSS model was found to have robust construct validity evidence, and a superior fit compared with alternative models. Logistic regression and sensitivity analysis revealed that, after adjusting for technical skills, for every 1-point increase in NOTSS score of the lead surgeon, the odds of having a higher versus lower patient safety score was 2·29 times. The same pattern of results was obtained for a broad mix of surgical specialties (UK) as well as a single discipline (cardiothoracic, USA).

Conclusion

The NOTSS tool can be applied in research and education settings to measure non-technical skills in a valid and efficient manner.
Relationship between intraoperative non-technical performance and technical events in bariatric surgery
Authors: Fecso A B , Kuzulugil S S , Babaoglu C , Bener A B , Grantcharov T P
Published: March 2018

Background

The operating theatre is a unique environment with complex team interactions, where technical and non-technical performance affect patient outcomes. The correlation between technical and non-technical performance, however, remains underinvestigated. The purpose of this study was to explore these interactions in the operating theatre.

Methods

A prospective single-centre observational study was conducted at a tertiary academic medical centre. One surgeon and three fellows participated as main operators. All patients who underwent a laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and had the procedures captured using the Operating Room Black Box® platform were included. Technical assessment was performed using the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills and Generic Error Rating Tool instruments. For non-technical assessment, the Non-Technical Skills for Surgeons (NOTSS) and Scrub Practitioners' List of Intraoperative Non-Technical Skills (SPLINTS) tools were used. Spearman rank-order correlation and N-gram statistics were conducted.

Results

Fifty-six patients were included in the study and 90 procedural steps (gastrojejunostomy and jejunojejunostomy) were analysed. There was a moderate to strong correlation between technical adverse events (rs = 0·417–0·687), rectifications (rs = 0·380–0·768) and non-technical performance of the surgical and nursing teams (NOTSS and SPLINTS). N-gram statistics showed that after technical errors, events and prior rectifications, the staff surgeon and the scrub nurse exhibited the most positive non-technical behaviours, irrespective of operator (staff surgeon or fellow).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that technical and non-technical performances are related, on both an individual and a team level. Valuable data can be obtained around intraoperative errors, events and rectifications.
African‐American men and prostate cancer‐specific mortality: a competing risk analysis of a large institutional cohort, 1989–2015
Authors: Williams Vonetta L. , Awasthi Shivanshu , Fink Angelina K. , Pow‐Sang Julio M. , Park Jong Y. , Gerke Travis , Yamoah Kosj
Published: March 2018

Significant racial disparities in prostate cancer (PCa) outcomes have been reported, with African‐American men (AAM) more likely to endure adverse oncologic outcomes. Despite efforts to dissipate racial disparities in PCa, a survival gap persists and it remains unclear to what extent this disparity can be explained by known clinicodemographic factors. In this study, we leveraged our large institutional database, spanning over 25 years, to investigate whether AAM continued to experience poor PCa outcomes and factors that may contribute to racial disparities in PCa. A total of 7307 patients diagnosed with PCa from 1989 through 2015 were included. Associations of race and clinicodemographic characteristics were analyzed using chi‐square for categorical and Mann–Whitney U‐test for continuous variables. Racial differences in prostate cancer outcomes were analyzed using competing risk analysis methods of Fine and Gray. Median follow‐up time was 106 months. There were 2304 deaths recorded, of which 432 resulted from PCa. AAM were more likely to be diagnosed at an earlier age (median 60 vs. 65 years, P = <0.001) and were more likely to have ≥1 comorbidities (13.6% vs. 7.5%, P < 0.001). In a multivariate competing risk model, adjusted for baseline covariates, AAM experienced significantly higher risk of PCSM compared to NHW men (HR, 1.62, 95% CI, 1.02–2.57, P = 0.03) NHW. Among men diagnosed at an older age (>60 years), racial differences in PCSM were more pronounced, with AAM experiencing higher rates of PCSM (HR, 2.05, 95% CI, 1.26–3.34, P = 0.003). After adjustment of clinicodemographic and potential risk factors, AAM continue to experience an increased risk of mortality from PCa, especially older AAM. Furthermore, AAM are more likely to be diagnosed at an early age and more likely to have higher comorbidity indices.
Suspected coronary fat embolism after liposuction
Authors: Thamwiwat Alisa , Sudhakar Deepthi , Paniagua David , Denktas Ali E.
Published: March 2018

A 38‐year‐old female presented with chest pain and ST elevation on electrocardiogram after an outpatient liposuction procedure. Emergent coronary angiography revealed complete occlusion of multiple coronary arteries, with fat embolism as the suspected etiology. Attempts to restore distal coronary flow with balloon dilatation, aspiration with Pronto catheter, and distal adenosine administration resulted in minimal improvement in flow. The material aspirated was consistent with fat. With supportive therapy, including Impella CP support, the patient's clinical condition improved. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of multiple coronary occlusion after liposuction.
Solids and Hydraulic Retention Time Effect on N2O Emission from Moving‐Bed Membrane Bioreactors
Authors: Mannina Giorgio , Capodici Marco , Cosenza Alida , Di Trapani Daniele , Ekama George A.
Published: March 2018

Biological nutrient removal was operated at different solids (SRT) and hydraulic retention times (HRT) in order to assess their influence on nitrous oxide (N2O) emission from a hybrid moving‐bed membrane bioreactor. The observed results show that the N2O production decreased when the SRT/HRT was decreased. The maximum N2O gaseous concentration was measured in the aerobic reactor at the end of phase I, and it decreased through phases II and III. From mass balances over the reactors of the system, the aerated (aerobic and membrane) reactors were the largest producers of N2O, showing that the greater part of N2O was produced during the nitrification process.
A Career Path Leading to Well‐being and Success
Authors: Girouard Sarah , Forest Jacques
Published: March 2018

In line with self‐determination theory (Deci & Ryan, 2000), this study aims to determine the influence of different contents and motives of career aspirations, together with objective career success, on subjective career success and well‐being. Moreover, it aims to verify if psychological need, satisfaction, and frustration play a mediating role in these relationships. Results suggest that the pursuit of some aspirations and the underlying motives for their pursuit are more beneficial. Aspiration contents, and aspiration motives, together with objective career success, influence subjective well‐being and subjective career success, in part because they satisfy or frustrate psychological needs. This study brings together two fields of research evolving in parallel—career and life aspirations— to shed new light on both of them. Copyright © 2018 ASAC. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Human Body as a Power Source for Biomechanical Energy Scavenging Based on Electrode‐Free Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Zhang Hulin , Cui Xiaojing , Cao Shengli , Zhang Qiang , Sang Shengbo , Zhang Wendong
Published: March 2018

We demonstrate a human‐body‐based electrode‐free triboelectric nanogenerator that is capable of harvesting biomechanical energy by triboelectrification between the human body and a polymer cloth. A polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) film with nanostructured surface serves as one triboelectric layer, while the human body plays a dual role of both a triboelectric layer and natural electrode in electricity generation. Due to the appropriate conductivity of the human body, the generated electricity can be acquired from any part of the human body, and as the human body can serve as a natural electrode, our generator nearly can harvest energy from any human motion. The output voltage can reach 25 V during typical running at a loading resistance of 50 MΩ, which is sufficient to light up LEDs. Owing to the adaptive configuration, our designed TENGs can be potentially applied in self‐powered emergency situations, in outdoor sports, or for field survival.
Thiacloprid-induced toxicity influenced by nutrients: Evidence from in situ bioassays in experimental ditches
Authors: Barmentlo S. Henrik , Parmentier Elinor M. , de Snoo Geert R. , Vijver Martina G.
Published: March 2018

Many studies show that neonicotinoid insecticides cause toxicity to aquatic invertebrates. Some studies report that insecticide toxicity may differ in combination with other agrochemicals under realistic field conditions. To explore such altered toxicity further, we aimed to determine the single and combined effects of environmentally relevant levels of the neonicotinoid thiacloprid and nutrients on different endpoints of 4 aquatic invertebrate species. Animals were exposed to these agrochemicals using a caged experiment within experimental ditches. We observed thiacloprid-induced toxicity for 2 crustaceans, Daphnia magna and Asellus aquaticus, and for 1 out of 2 tested insect species, Cloeon dipterum. We observed no toxic effects for Chironomus riparius at the time-weighted average test concentration of 0.51 μg thiacloprid/L. For D. magna, the observed toxicity, expressed as the lowest-observed-effect concentration (LOEC), on growth and reproduction was present at thiacloprid concentrations that were 2456-fold lower than laboratory-derived LOEC values. This shows that these species, when exposed under natural conditions, may exhibit neonicotinoid-induced toxic stress. Contrary to the low nutrient treatment, such toxicity was often not observed under nutrient-enriched conditions. This was likely attributable to the increased primary production that allowed for compensatory feeding. These findings warrant the inclusion of different feeding regimes in laboratory experiments to retrieve the best estimates of neonicotinoid-induced toxicity in the natural environment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2018;37:1907–1915. © 2018 SETAC
Blocking H1/H2 histamine receptors inhibits damage/fibrosis in Mdr2–/– mice and human cholangiocarcinoma tumorigenesis
Authors: Kennedy Lindsey , Hargrove Laura , Demieville Jennifer , Karstens Walker , Jones Hannah , DeMorrow Sharon , Meng Fanyin , Invernizzi Pietro , Bernuzzi Francesca , Alpini Gianfranco , Smith Steven , Akers Austin , Meadows Vik , Francis Heather
Published: March 2018

Primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) patients are at risk of developing cholangiocarcinoma (CCA). We have shown that (1) histamine increases biliary hyperplasia through H1/H2 histamine receptors (HRs) and (2) histamine levels increase and mast cells (MCs) infiltrate during PSC and CCA. We examined the effects of chronic treatment with H1/H2HR antagonists on PSC and CCA. Wild‐type and multidrug‐resistant knockout (Mdr2–/–) mice were treated by osmotic minipumps with saline, mepyramine, or ranitidine (10 mg/kg body weight/day) or a combination of mepyramine/ranitidine for 4 weeks. Liver damage was assessed by hematoxylin and eosin. We evaluated (1) H1/H2HR expression, (2) MC presence, (3) L‐histidine decarboxylase/histamine axis, (4) cholangiocyte proliferation/bile duct mass, and (5) fibrosis/hepatic stellate cell activation. Nu/nu mice were implanted with Mz‐ChA‐1 cells into the hind flanks and treated with saline, mepyramine, or ranitidine. Tumor growth was measured, and (1) H1/H2HR expression, (2) proliferation, (3) MC activation, (4) angiogenesis, and (5) epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) were evaluated. In vitro, human hepatic stellate cells were evaluated for H1HR and H2HR expression. Cultured cholangiocytes and CCA lines were treated with saline, mepyramine, or ranitidine (25 μM) before evaluating proliferation, angiogenesis, EMT, and potential signaling mechanisms. H1/H2HR and MC presence increased in human PSC and CCA. In H1/H2HR antagonist (alone or in combination)–treated Mdr2–/– mice, liver and biliary damage and fibrosis decreased compared to saline treatment. H1/H2HR antagonists decreased tumor growth, serum histamine, angiogenesis, and EMT. In vitro, H1/H2HR blockers reduced biliary proliferation, and CCA cells had decreased proliferation, angiogenesis, EMT, and migration. Conclusion: Inhibition of H1/H2HR reverses PSC‐associated damage and decreases CCA growth, angiogenesis, and EMT; because PSC patients are at risk of developing CCA, using HR blockers may be therapeutic for these diseases. (Hepatology 2018).
Outcomes of surgical management of familial intrahepatic cholestasis 1 and bile salt export protein deficiencies
Authors: Bull Laura N. , Pawlikowska Ludmila , Strautnieks Sandra , Jankowska Irena , Czubkowski Piotr , Dodge Jennifer L. , Emerick Karan , Wanty Catherine , Wali Sami , Blanchard Samra , Lacaille Florence , Byrne Jane A. , van Eerde Albertien M. , Kolho Kaija‐Leena , Houwen Roderick , Lobritto Steven , Hupertz Vera , McClean Patricia , Mieli‐Vergani Giorgina , Sokal Etienne , Rosenthal Philip , Whitington Peter F. , Pawlowska Joanna , Thompson Richard J.
Published: March 2018

Progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis (PFIC) with normal circulating gamma‐glutamyl transpeptidase levels can result from mutations in the ATP8B1 gene (encoding familial intrahepatic cholestasis 1 [FIC1] deficiency) or the ABCB11 gene (bile salt export protein [BSEP] deficiency). We investigated the outcomes of partial external biliary diversion, ileal exclusion, and liver transplantation in these two conditions. We conducted a retrospective multicenter study of 42 patients with FIC1 deficiency (FIC1 patients) and 60 patients with BSEP deficiency (BSEP patients) who had undergone one or more surgical procedures (57 diversions, 6 exclusions, and 57 transplants). For surgeries performed prior to transplantation, BSEP patients were divided into two groups, BSEP‐common (bearing common missense mutations D482G or E297G, with likely residual function) and BSEP‐other. We evaluated clinical and biochemical outcomes in these patients. Overall, diversion improved biochemical parameters, pruritus, and growth, with substantial variation in individual response. BSEP‐common or FIC1 patients survived longer after diversion without developing cirrhosis, being listed for or undergoing liver transplantation, or dying, compared to BSEP‐other patients. Transplantation resolved cholestasis in all groups. However, FIC1 patients commonly developed hepatic steatosis, diarrhea, and/or pancreatic disease after transplant accompanied by biochemical abnormalities and often had continued poor growth. In BSEP patients with impaired growth, this generally improved after transplantation. Conclusion: Diversion can improve clinical and biochemical status in FIC1 and BSEP deficiencies, but outcomes differ depending on genetic etiology. For many patients, particularly BSEP‐other, diversion is not a permanent solution and transplantation is required. Although transplantation resolves cholestasis in patients with FIC1 and BSEP deficiencies, the overall outcome remains unsatisfactory in many FIC1 patients; this is mainly due to extrahepatic manifestations. (Hepatology Communications 2018;2:515‐528)
Hydrogen sulfide in physiology and pathogenesis of bacteria and viruses
Authors: Pal Virender Kumar , Bandyopadhyay Parijat , Singh Amit
Published: March 2018

An increasing number of studies have established hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas as a major cytoprotectant and redox modulator. Following its discovery, H2S has been found to have pleiotropic effects on physiology and human health. H2S acts as a gasotransmitter and exerts its influence on gastrointestinal, neuronal, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, and hepatic systems. Recent discoveries have clearly indicated the importance of H2S in regulating vasorelaxation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, ageing, and metabolism. Contrary to studies in higher organisms, the role of H2S in the pathophysiology of infectious agents such as bacteria and viruses has been less studied. Bacterial and viral infections are often accompanied by changes in the redox physiology of both the host and the pathogen. Emerging studies indicate that bacterial‐derived H2S constitutes a defense system against antibiotics and oxidative stress. The H2S signaling pathway also seems to interfere with redox‐based events affected on infection with viruses. This review aims to summarize recent advances on the emerging role of H2S gas in the bacterial physiology and viral infections. Such studies have opened up new research avenues exploiting H2S as a potential therapeutic intervention. © 2018 The Authors IUBMB Life published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 70(5):393–410, 2018
Variable strength covering arrays
Authors: Raaphorst Sebastian , Moura Lucia , Stevens Brett
Published: March 2018

We define and study variable strength covering arrays (also called covering arrays on hypergraphs), which are generalizations of covering arrays and covering arrays on graphs. Variable strength covering arrays have the potential for use in software testing, allowing the engineer to omit the parameter combinations known to not interact in order to reduce the number of tests required. The present paper shows that variable strength covering arrays are relevant combinatorial objects that have deep connections with hypergraph homomorphisms and generalize other important combinatorial designs. We give optimal constructions for special types of hypergraphs, constructions based on columns with uniform occurrence of symbols, and constructions for mixed alphabets.
pTRAPs: Transmembrane adaptors in innate immune signaling
Authors: Curson James E B , Luo Lin , Sweet Matthew J , Stow Jennifer L
Published: March 2018

Transmembrane adaptor proteins (TRAPs) are protein scaffolds and signaling regulators with established roles in signal-induced activation of lymphocytes. A subset of the TRAP family, the palmitoylated TRAPs (pTRAPs), are increasingly emerging with additional roles in innate immune cells. Targeted to lipid rafts, tetraspannin-enriched microdomains, and protein microclusters in membranes, pTRAP scaffolds exert spatiotemporal regulation by recruiting signaling kinases, particularly Src and Syk family members, as well as Csk, and other effectors. In this way, pTRAPs modulate signaling and influence resulting cell responses, including the selective output of inflammatory cytokines and other mediators. Here, we review studies revealing that different pTRAPs work together, often with overlapping or redundant roles, for positive and negative regulation of key innate immune pathways, including Fc receptor and pattern recognition receptor signaling. Recent findings show that pTRAPs can bind directly to innate immune receptors, in addition to other transmembrane binding partners. Thus, pTRAPs are important, multifunctional scaffolds in pathways that are fundamental to diverse innate immune responses.
Allergic phenotype of chronic rhinosinusitis based on radiologic pattern of disease
Authors: Hamizan Aneeza W. , Loftus Patricia A. , Alvarado Raquel , Ho Jacqueline , Kalish Larry , Sacks Raymond , DelGaudio John M. , Harvey Richard J.
Published: March 2018

Objectives/Hypothesis

Polypoid edema of the middle turbinate is a marker of inhalant allergy. Extensive edematous changes may result in limited central nasal and sinus disease, which has been called central compartment atopic disease (CCAD). Radiologically, this is seen as soft tissue thickening in the central portion of the sinonasal cavity with or without paranasal sinus involvement. When the sinuses are involved, the soft tissue thickening spares the sinus roof or lateral wall (centrally limited). This centrally limited radiological pattern was assessed among chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients and compared to allergy status.

Study Design

Diagnostic cross‐sectional study.

Methods

This study included consecutive CRS patients without prior sinus surgery. Computed tomography (CT) scans of the paranasal sinuses were blindly assessed and allergy status was confirmed by serum or skin testing. Individual sinus cavities were defined as either centrally limited or diffuse disease. The radiological pattern that may predict allergy was determined, and its diagnostic accuracy was calculated.

Results

One hundred twelve patients diagnosed to have CRS, representing 224 sides, were assessed (age 46.31 ± 13.57 years, 38.39% female, 41.07% asthma, Lund‐Mackay CT score 15.88 ± 4.35, 56.25% atopic). The radiological pattern defined by centrally limited changes in all of the paranasal sinuses was associated with allergy status (73.53% vs. 53.16%, P = .03). This predicted atopy with 90.82% specificity, 73.53% positive predictive value, likelihood positive ratios of 2.16, and diagnostic odds ratio of 4.59.

Conclusions

A central radiological pattern of mucosal disease is associated with inhalant allergen sensitization. This group may represent a CCAD subgroup of patients with mainly allergic etiology.

Level of Evidence

3b Laryngoscope, 128:2015–2021, 2018
Transoral resection of extensive pediatric supraglottic neurofibroma
Authors: Arnold Mark A. , Mortelliti Anthony J. , Marzouk Mark F.
Published: March 2018

This case report describes the novel use of transoral robotic surgery (TORS) with delayed transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) for residual disease in the resection of a pediatric neurofibroma with supraglottic and parapharyngeal space extension. Postoperatively, the patient had excellent functional outcomes. This case demonstrates that pediatric TORS is feasible, safe, and complementary to TLM. Neurofibroma is just one of the diverse pathologic processes of the pediatric airway that can be managed via transoral surgery, and applications of TORS with TLM will continue to broaden as our experience develops. Laryngoscope, 2525–2528, 2018
Long‐Term Beta‐Blocker Therapy after Myocardial Infarction in the Reperfusion Era: A Systematic Review
Authors: Hong Jenny , Barry Arden R.
Published: March 2018

Beta‐blockers are recommended as standard of care for patients who experience a myocardial infarction (MI). However, evidence to support this recommendation is primarily derived from the pre‐reperfusion era. In the reperfusion era, short‐term (≤ 30 days) beta‐blocker therapy has been demonstrated to reduce recurrent MI and angina, but not mortality. The objective of this review was to evaluate the evidence for long‐term (≥ 1 yr) beta‐blocker therapy in patients post‐MI without left ventricular dysfunction in the reperfusion era. A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and Google from inception to September 2017 was performed. Included were randomized controlled trials and observational propensity score cohort studies published within the past 10 years that compared beta‐blockers to placebo/no beta‐blockers at discharge in patients with an acute MI but without left ventricular dysfunction or heart failure. Outcomes of interest included all‐cause and cardiovascular mortality, nonfatal MI, and nonfatal stroke. Eight cohort studies were included. Follow‐up ranged from 1 to 5 years. Two smaller studies demonstrated a reduction in all‐cause mortality with beta‐blockers, whereas there was no difference observed in six studies. One study showed reduced cardiovascular mortality at 1 year, but no difference in sudden cardiac death. One study demonstrated a reduction in cardiac mortality at 3 years, but no difference in MI or stroke. None of the four studies that reported adverse cardiovascular events demonstrated a benefit with beta‐blocker therapy. Though these data are limited by observational methodology, the majority of the included studies failed to demonstrate a benefit in survival or cardiovascular events with long‐term beta‐blockers in post‐MI patients with normal left ventricular function. In the absence of a contemporary randomized controlled trial, this evidence imparts uncertainty regarding the current standard of care and suggests that it may be reasonable to discontinue beta‐blockers in patients without impaired left ventricular function at 1‐year post‐MI who do not have another indication for use.
The diagonal score: Definition, properties, and interpretations
Authors: Ben Bouallègue Zied , Haiden Thomas , Richardson David S.
Published: March 2018

The diagonal score is proposed as a new scoring rule for the assessment of univariate probabilistic forecasts. First, a general framework for the definition of proper user‐oriented scores is set up using the concept of elementary scoring rules. Building on this fundamental notion, a complete overview of forecast skill is provided by a new verification tool. The forecast skill card introduced displays the forecast value as a function of two decision parameters, a probability level and an event threshold, simultaneously. The diagonal score emerges as a summary score focusing on the diagonal of the skill card, that is, by fixing the relationship between the event base rate and forecast probability level. The properties of the new score, as well as interpretations from the perspectives of users and developers, are discussed based on synthetic datasets and 2 m temperature forecasts of the operational ECMWF ensemble prediction system.
Atmospheric boundary‐layer characteristics from ceilometer measurements. Part 2: Application to London's urban boundary layer
Authors: Kotthaus Simone , Grimmond C. Sue B.
Published: March 2018

Long‐term measurements of mixed layer height (ZML) are possible with advances in detecting ZML based on Automatic Lidars and Ceilometers (ALC) observations. Six years of ALC measurements in central London are analysed using the CABAM (“Characterising the Atmospheric Boundary layer (ABL) based on ALC Measurements”) algorithm which provides ZML and an ABL classification by cloud cover and type. The boundary‐layer dynamics are shown to respond to day‐length, cloud cover and cloud type. Seasonal median daily maxima range from 707 m (stratiform clouds) to 1704 m (days with convective boundary‐layer clouds following a clear night). A common approach to ABL classification and clear definition of key ZML‐indicators can facilitate inter‐city comparison. A simple parametrisation based on empirical coefficients derived from the London measurements is proposed to generalise the description of diurnal and seasonal variations in ZML, including cloud conditions. This has the potential to aid improved understanding of the complex relations between surface air quality and boundary‐layer dynamics.