bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transport effects and chemical effects on NO removal by SCR with NH3over iron‐based catalyst in a magnetically fluidized bed
Authors: Yao Gui‐huan , Gui Ke‐ting , Ling Xiang
Published: March 2018

Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) of NO by NH3on iron‐based catalysts was investigated with a magnetically fluidized bed (MFB). Magnetic fields promoted the NO conversion. The optimal efficiency of 95 % was attained under a magnetic field of 0.01–0.015 T at 250 °C. Magnetic fields yielded transport effects and chemical effects on SCR of NO over Fe2O3catalyst. The transport effects are reflected by the enhancement of physical transfer in a MFB. Magnetic fields can check and eliminate bubbles, increase gas‐solid contact probabilities, and thereby improve heat and mass transfer characteristics in a MFB. The chemical effects can be summarized into three points. First, the magnetization ofγ‐Fe2O3by uniform magnetic fields gives rise to boundary effects, which results in Faraday force on paramagnetic NO molecules and yields NO movement to the catalyst surface, and hence increases NO chemisorption. Second, the synergy of magnetic fields and ferrimagnetic iron‐based catalyst can boost the transformation of antimagnetic reactant into paramagnetic products, and accelerate electron transport in the reaction, which enhances the activation of NH3on magnetic Fe (III) sites. Third, magnetic fields can alter the energy dispersal of a free radicals reaction system, and thereby promotes the free radicals reaction between NH2· and NO·.
Homogeneous Light‐Driven Catalytic Direct Carboxylation with CO2
Authors: Tan Fen , Yin Guoyin
Published: March 2018

Carbon dioxide is a ubiquitous and inexpensive one‐carbon source for chemical synthesis, and the efficient incorporation of CO2 into organic molecules is of widespread research interest both for economic and ecological reasons. The methodologies to employ carbon dioxide as a single‐carbon unit to construct molecules relevant for agrochemical and pharmaceutical research include many elegant approaches, including asymmetric transformations. Even though remarkable achievements have been made in the field of light‐driven catalysis, especially photoredox catalysis, homogeneous light‐driven catalytic carboxylation by employing CO2 as the key reagent has only become a subject of increasing attention in recent years. Therefore, this concise review will discuss the latest advances in this research area.
A defined, plant‐based diet utilized in an outpatient cardiovascular clinic effectively treats hypercholesterolemia and hypertension and reduces medications
Authors: Najjar Rami S. , Moore Carolyn E. , Montgomery Baxter D.
Published: March 2018

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major economic burden in the United States. CVD risk factors, particularly hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, are typically treated with drug therapy. Five‐year efficacy of such drugs to prevent CVD is estimated to be 5%. Plant‐based diets have emerged as effective mitigators of these risk factors.

Hypothesis

The implementation of a defined, plant‐based diet for 4 weeks in an outpatient clinical setting may mitigate CVD risk factors and reduce patient drug burden.

Methods

Participants consumed a plant‐based diet consisting of foods prepared in a defined method in accordance with a food‐classification system. Participants consumed raw fruits, vegetables, seeds, and avocado. All animal products were excluded from the diet. Participant anthropometric and hemodynamic data were obtained weekly for 4 weeks. Laboratory biomarkers were collected at baseline and at 4 weeks. Medication needs were assessed weekly. Data were analyzed using paired‐samples t tests and 1‐way repeated‐measures ANOVA.

Results

Significant reductions were observed for systolic (−16.6 mmHg) and diastolic (−9.1 mmHg) blood pressure (P < 0.0005), serum lipids (P ≤ 0.008), and total medication usage (P < 0.0005). Other CVD risk factors, including weight (P < 0.0005), waist circumference (P < 0.0005), heart rate (P = 0.018), insulin (P < 0.0005), glycated hemoglobin (P = 0.002), and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (P = 0.001) were also reduced.

Conclusion

A defined, plant‐based diet can be used as an effective therapeutic strategy in the clinical setting to mitigate cardiovascular risk factors and reduce patient drug burden.
Lipid profile and incidence of atrial fibrillation: A prospective cohort study in China
Authors: Li Xintao , Gao Lianjun , Wang Zhao , Guan Bo , Guan Xumin , Wang Binhao , Han Xu , Xiao Xianjie , Waleed Khalid Bin , Chandran Clarance , Wu Shouling , Xia Yunlong
Published: March 2018

Background

The association between dyslipidemia, a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and atrial fibrillation (AF) is not clear because of limited evidence.

Hypothesis.

Dyslipidemia may be associated with increased risk of AF in a Chinese population.

Methods

A total of 88 785 participants free from AF at baseline (2006–2007) were identified from the Kailuan Study. Fasting levels of total cholesterol (TC), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), and triglycerides (TG) were measured at baseline using standard procedures. The study population was stratified based on quartiles of lipid profile. Incident AF was ascertained from electrocardiograms at biennial follow‐up visits (2008–2015). The associations between incident AF and the different lipid parameters (TC, LDL‐C, HDL‐C, and TG) were assessed by Cox proportional hazards regression analysis.

Results

Over a mean follow‐up period of 7.12 years, 328 subjects developed AF. Higher TC (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.60, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.43‐0.84) and LDL‐C (HR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.43‐0.83) levels were inversely associated with incident AF after multivariable adjustment. HDL‐C and TG levels showed no association with newly developed AF. The results remained consistent after exclusion of individuals with myocardial infarction or cerebral infarction, or those on lipid‐lowering therapy. Both TC/HDL‐C and LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratios were inversely associated with risk of AF (per unit increment, HR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.79‐0.98 and HR: 0.77, 95% CI: 0.66‐0.91, respectively).

Conclusions

TC and LDL‐C levels were inversely associated with incident AF, whereas no significant association of AF with HDL‐C or TG levels was observed.
Acromegalic cardiomyopathy: Epidemiology, diagnosis, and management
Authors: Sharma Ajay N. , Tan Marilyn , Amsterdam Ezra A. , Singh Gagan D.
Published: March 2018

Acromegalic cardiomyopathy is the leading cause of morbidity and all‐cause mortality in patients with acromegaly. Though acromegaly is a rare condition, the associated derangements are vast and severe. Stemming from an increase in circulating growth hormone (GH) and insulin‐like growth factor‐1 levels (IGF‐1), acromegalic cardiomyopathy results in pathological changes in myocyte growth and structure, cardiac contractility, and vascular function. These molecular changes manifest commonly as biventricular hypertrophy, diastolic and systolic dysfunction, and valvular regurgitation. Early recognition of the condition is paramount, though the insidious progression of the disease commonly results in a late diagnosis. Biochemical testing, based on IGF‐1 measurements, is the gold standard of diagnosis. Management should be centered on normalizing serum levels of both IGF‐1 and GH. Transsphenoidal resection remains the most cost‐effective and permanent treatment for acromegaly, though medical therapy possesses benefit for those who are not surgical candidates. Ultimately, achieving control of hormone levels results in a severe reduction in mortality rate, underscoring the importance of early recognition and treatment.
Low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol lowering in individuals at intermediate cardiovascular risk: Percent reduction or target level?
Authors: Cesena Fernando H. Y. , Laurinavicius Antonio Gabriele , Valente Viviane A. , Conceição Raquel D. , Santos Raul D. , Bittencourt Marcio S.
Published: March 2018

Background

Recommendations for blood cholesterol management differ across different guidelines.

Hypothesis

Lipid‐lowering strategies based on low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (LDL‐c) percent reduction or target concentration may have different effects on the expected cardiovascular benefit in intermediate‐risk individuals.

Methods

We selected individuals between 40 and 75 years of age with 10‐year risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) between 5.0% and <7.5% who underwent a routine health screening. For every subject, we simulated a strategy based on a 40% LDL‐c reduction (S40%) and another strategy based on achieving LDL‐c target ≤100 mg/dL (Starget‐100). The cardiovascular benefit was estimated assuming a 22% relative risk reduction in major cardiovascular events for each 39 mg/dL of LDL‐c lowered.

Results

The study comprised 1756 individuals (94% men, 52 ± 5 years old). LDL‐c and predicted 10‐year ASCVD risk would be slightly lower in S40% compared to Starget‐100. The number needed to treat to prevent 1 major cardiovascular event in 10 years (NNT10) would be 56 with S40% and 66 with Starget‐100. S40% would prevent more events in individuals with lower baseline LDL‐c, whereas Starget‐100 would be more protective in those with higher LDL‐c. A dual‐target strategy (40% minimum LDL‐c reduction and achievement of LDL‐c ≤100 mg/dL) would be associated with outcomes similar to those expected with the S40% (NNT10 = 55).

Conclusions

In an intermediate‐risk population, cardiovascular benefit from LDL‐c lowering may be optimized by tailoring the treatment according to the baseline LDL‐c or by setting a dual‐target strategy (fixed dose statin plus achievement of target LDL‐c concentration).
Is exercise stress echocardiography useful in patients with suspected obstructive coronary artery disease who have resting left bundle branch block?
Authors: Xu Bo , Dobson Laura , Mottram Philip M. , Nasis Arthur , Cameron James , Moir Stuart
Published: March 2018

Background

Current guidelines support exercise stress echocardiography (ESE) for evaluation of suspected obstructive coronary artery disease (OCAD) in ambulant patients with left bundle branch block (LBBB). Data regarding the diagnostic utility of ESE in patients with LBBB are limited.

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that the diagnostic performance of ESE for the assessment of suspected OCAD is reduced in the context of LBBB.

Methods

We studied 191 consecutive patients with resting LBBB undergoing ESE for the investigation of suspected OCAD between 2008 and 2015 at our center. The studies were categorized as inconclusive, normal, or abnormal. Patients with an abnormal response were subcategorized as regional ischemic response or globally abnormal.

Results

Eighty‐two patients (43%) demonstrated a normal left ventricular contractile response (LVCR) to exercise; 92 (48%) developed an abnormal LVCR to exercise, including 70 patients with globally abnormal and 22 patients with regional ischemic responses. Of the patients with abnormal responses, 62 patients had anatomic imaging, only 29 of whom had significant OCAD, conferring an overall specificity of ESE for significant OCAD of 21% and accuracy of 52%. Of patients who developed a regionally abnormal response, 89% had significant OCAD.

Conclusions

For patients with LBBB who develop a globally abnormal LVCR during ESE, the specificity of ESE for reliably excluding significant OCAD is significantly reduced. ESE appears to be a suboptimal test for the evaluation of OCAD in patients with resting LBBB, as about 50% of patients will have an abnormal response, the majority due to globally abnormal contraction where OCAD cannot be reliably diagnosed. Alternative testing should be considered for the investigation of suspected OCAD in patients with resting LBBB.
Genetic diagnosis of familial hypercholesterolemia is associated with a premature and high coronary heart disease risk
Authors: Séguro Florent , Rabès Jean‐Pierre , Taraszkiewicz Dorota , Ruidavets Jean‐Bernard , Bongard Vanina , Ferrières Jean
Published: March 2018

Background

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a common autosomal dominant disease associated with premature coronary heart disease (CHD). Studies tend to show that patients with FH associated with an identified mutation (mutation+ FH) are at higher risk than patients without an identified mutation (mutation– FH). We compared the clinical and biological profile and the risk of CHD in patients with mutation+ FH and mutation– FH.

Hypothesis

In addition to LDL‐C, a pathogenic mutation predicts premature CHD in FH.

Methods

We successively included all patients with suspected FH (LDL‐C > 190 mg/dL if age > 18 years; LDL‐C > 160 mg/dL if age < 18 years) and compared patients with a pathogenic mutation with those without an identified pathogenic mutation.

Results

We studied 179 patients with mutation+ FH and 147 with mutation– FH. The mean age was 44 (± 18) years. The lipid profile was more atherogenic in those with mutation+ FH, who had higher LDL‐C (254 ± 69 mg/dL vs 218 ± 35 mg/dL; P < 0.01) and lower HDL‐C (53 ± 14 mg/dL vs 58 ± 17 mg/dL; P < 0.01). Despite the more atherogenic nonlipid cardiovascular profile of patients with mutation– FH, the age of CHD onset was earlier in patients with mutation+ FH (48 vs 56 years; P = 0.026). After multiple adjustment, the presence of a positive mutation was significantly associated with premature CHD (OR: 3.0, 95% CI: 1.38‐6.55, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Patients with mutation+ FH have a more atherogenic lipid profile and a 3‐fold higher risk of premature CHD, as well as earlier onset of CHD, than patients with mutation– FH.
Blockade of the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system in patients with arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia: A double‐blind, multicenter, prospective, randomized, genotype‐driven study (BRAVE study)
Authors: Morel Elodie , Manati Ab Waheed , Nony Patrice , Maucort‐Boulch Delphine , Bessière Francis , Cai Xu , Besseyre des Horts Timothee , Janin Alexandre , Moreau Adrien , Chevalier Phillippe
Published: March 2018

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia (ARVD) is a rare cardiomyopathy characterized by the progressive replacement of cardiomyocytes by fatty and fibrous tissue in the right ventricle (RV). These infiltrations lead to cardiac electrical instability and ventricular arrhythmia. Current treatment for ARVD is empirical and essentially based on treatment of arrhythmia. Thus, there is no validated treatment that will prevent the deterioration of RV function in patients with ARVD. The aim of the BRAVE study is to evaluate the effect of ramipril, an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor, on ventricular myocardial remodeling and arrhythmia burden in patients with ARVD. Despite the fact that myocardial fibrosis is one of the structural hallmarks of ARVD, no study has tested an antifibrotic drug in ARVD patients. The trial is a double‐blind, parallel, multicenter, prospective, randomized, phase 4 drug study. Patients will be randomized into 2 groups, ramipril or placebo. The 120 patients (60 per group) will be enrolled by 26 centers in France. Patients will be followed up every 6 months for 3 years. The 2 co–primary endpoints are defined as the difference of telediastolic RV volume measured by magnetic resonance imaging between baseline and 3 years of follow‐up, and the change in arrhythmia burden during the 3 years of follow‐up. A decrease in RV and/or left ventricular deterioration and in arrhythmia burden are expected in ARVD patients treated with ramipril. This reduction will improve quality of life of patients and will reduce the number of hospitalizations and the risk of terminal heart failure.
Marital status and outcomes after myocardial infarction: Observations from the Canadian Observational Antiplatelet Study (COAPT)
Authors: Ghosh‐Swaby Olivia R. , Tan Mary , Bagai Akshay , Yan Andrew T. , Goodman Shaun G. , Mehta Shamir R. , Fisher Harold N. , Cohen Eric A. , Huynh Thao , Cantor Warren J. , Le May Michel R. , Déry Jean‐Pierre , Welsh Robert C. , Udell Jacob A.
Published: March 2018

While divorced or living alone, patients with stable cardiovascular disease are at increased risk for adverse cardiovascular events. The importance of marital status following a myocardial infarction (MI) is less clear. We hypothesized that marital status may affect cardiovascular outcomes following MI. We analyzed outcomes among patients with MI who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention from the Canadian Observational Antiplatelet Study (COAPT). Marital status was categorized into 3 groups: married/common‐law patients living together; never married; and divorced, separated, or widowed patients. Patients were followed for 15 months and our primary outcome was the occurrence of a major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE), defined as a composite of mortality, repeat acute MI, stroke, or urgent coronary revascularization. Multivariable logistic regression models were performed, with married/common‐law patients living together considered the reference group. Among 2100 patients included in analyses, 1519 (72.3%) were married/common‐law patients living together, 358 (17.1%) were separated/divorced/widowed, and 223 (10.6%) patients were never married. Dual antiplatelet therapy use after 15 months was similar across groups (75.4%, 77.8%, and 73.6%, respectively). The risk of MACE after 15 months was similar among married patients living together (12.7%; referent) compared with patients who were never married (13.9%; adjusted odds ratio: 1.09, 95% confidence interval: 0.58–2.07,P = 0.79) and patients separated/divorced/widowed (14.3%; adjusted odds ratio: 0.71, 95% confidence interval: 0.40–1.25,P = 0.23). Similarly, the risk of individual endpoints, including mortality, was similar across the 3 groups. Among patients stabilized following an MI, we found no association between marital status and 15‐month outcomes.
Transport and Distribution of Nutrients in the Runoff System of Urban Backfilled Soil
Authors: Yu Haixia , Xu Liqiang , Niu Siping , Yu Jianghua
Published: March 2018

Runoff pollution have become a serious issue in terms of water pollution in porous areas, especially in urban backfilled soil. The transport and distribution of runoff water and nutrients in the surface runoff and the subsurface runoff of backfilled soil runoff systems are determined using simulated rainfall and the results indicate that the flow patterns of runoff are different from those of surface runoff and subsurface runoff. The rate of surface runoff flow increases in the beginning and reaches a stable state with a delay of 10 min to rainfall, while the flow rate of subsurface runoff is consistent during the whole runoff period. Most of the pollutants (90% of total suspended solids, 88% of total phosphorus, and 78% of total nitrogen) are carried in the surface runoff, which directly results in polluting the surface‐receiving water. The results of the present study will provide information related to the management of runoff pollution in the backfilled soil runoff system.
Natural Polyphenols Selectively Inhibit β‐Carbonic Anhydrase from the Dandruff‐Producing Fungus Malassezia globosa: Activity and Modeling Studies
Authors: Nocentini Alessio , Bua Silvia , Del Prete Sonia , Heravi Yeganeh Entezari , Saboury Ali A. , Karioti Anastasia , Bilia Anna Rita , Capasso Clemente , Gratteri Paola , Supuran Claudiu T.
Published: March 2018

Around 50 % of the worldwide population is affected by dandruff, which is triggered by a variety of factors. The yeast Malassezia globosa has been labeled as the most probable causative agent for the onset of dandruff. The β‐carbonic anhydrase (CA) of MgCA was recently validated as an anti‐dandruff target, with its inhibition being responsible for in vivo growth defects in the fungus. As classical CA inhibitors of the sulfonamide type give rise to permeability problems through biological membranes, finding non‐sulfonamide alternatives for MgCA inhibition is of considerable interest in the cosmetic field. We recently screened a large library of human (h) CA inhibitors for MgCA inhibition, including different chemotypes, such as monothiocarbamates, dithiocarbamates, phenols, and benzoxaboroles. Herein, we expanded the research toward new MgCA inhibitors by considering a set of natural polyphenols (including flavones, flavonols, flavanones, flavanols, isoflavones, and depsides) that exhibited MgCA inhibitory activity in the micromolar range, as well as selectivity for the fungal isozyme over off‐target human isoforms. The binding mode of representative derivatives within the MgCA catalytic cleft was investigated by docking studies using a homology‐built model.
Synthesis, Pharmacological Evaluation, and Docking Studies of Novel Pyridazinone‐Based Cannabinoid Receptor Type 2 Ligands
Authors: Ragusa Giulio , Bencivenni Serena , Morales Paula , Callaway Tyra , Hurst Dow P. , Asproni Battistina , Merighi Stefania , Loriga Giovanni , Pinna Gerard A. , Reggio Patricia H. , Gessi Stefania , Murineddu Gabriele
Published: March 2018

In recent years, cannabinoid type 2 receptors (CB2R) have emerged as promising therapeutic targets in a wide variety of diseases. Selective ligands of CB2R are devoid of the psychoactive effects typically observed for CB1R ligands. Based on our recent studies on a class of pyridazinone 4‐carboxamides, further structural modifications of the pyridazinone core were made to better investigate the structure–activity relationships for this promising scaffold with the aim to develop potent CB2R ligands. In binding assays, two of the new synthesized compounds [6‐(3,4‐dichlorophenyl)‐2‐(4‐fluorobenzyl)‐cis‐N‐(4‐methylcyclohexyl)‐3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydropyridazine‐4‐carboxamide (2) and 6‐(4‐chloro‐3‐methylphenyl)‐cis‐N‐(4‐methylcyclohexyl)‐3‐oxo‐2‐pentyl‐2,3‐dihydropyridazine‐4‐carboxamide (22)] showed high CB2R affinity, with Ki values of 2.1 and 1.6 nm, respectively. In addition, functional assays of these compounds and other new active related derivatives revealed their pharmacological profiles as CB2R inverse agonists. Compound 22 displayed the highest CB2R selectivity and potency, presenting a favorable in silico pharmacokinetic profile. Furthermore, a molecular modeling study revealed how 22 produces inverse agonism through blocking the movement of the toggle‐switch residue, W6.48.
Optimization of Pyrazoles as Phenol Surrogates to Yield Potent Inhibitors of Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor
Authors: Trivedi‐Parmar Vinay , Robertson Michael J. , Cisneros José A. , Krimmer Stefan G. , Jorgensen William L.
Published: March 2018

Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) is a proinflammatory cytokine that is implicated in the regulation of inflammation, cell proliferation, and neurological disorders. MIF is also an enzyme that functions as a keto–enol tautomerase. Most potent MIF tautomerase inhibitors incorporate a phenol, which hydrogen bonds to Asn97 in the active site. Starting from a 113‐μm docking hit, we report results of structure‐based and computer‐aided design that have provided substituted pyrazoles as phenol alternatives with potencies of 60–70 nm. Crystal structures of complexes of MIF with the pyrazoles highlight the contributions of hydrogen bonding with Lys32 and Asn97, and aryl–aryl interactions with Tyr36, Tyr95, and Phe113 to the binding.
Cholinergic innervation of principal neurons in the cochlear nucleus of the Mongolian gerbil
Authors: Gillet Charlène , Goyer David , Kurth Stefanie , Griebel Hannah , Kuenzel Thomas
Published: March 2018

Principal neurons in the ventral cochlear nucleus (VCN) receive powerful ascending excitation and pass on the auditory information with exquisite temporal fidelity. Despite being dominated by ascending inputs, the VCN also receives descending cholinergic connections from olivocochlear neurons and from higher regions in the pontomesencephalic tegmentum. In Mongolian gerbils, acetylcholine acts as an excitatory and modulatory neurotransmitter on VCN neurons, but the anatomical structure of cholinergic innervation of gerbil VCN is not well described. We applied fluorescent immunohistochemical staining to elucidate the development and the cellular localization of presynaptic and postsynaptic components of the cholinergic system in the VCN of the Mongolian gerbil. We found that cholinergic fibers (stained with antibodies against the vesicular acetylcholine transporter) were present before hearing onset at P5, but innervation density increased in animals after P10. Early in development cholinergic fibers invaded the VCN from the medial side, spread along the perimeter and finally innervated all parts of the nucleus only after the onset of hearing. Cholinergic fibers ran in a rostro‐caudal direction within the nucleus and formed en‐passant swellings in the neuropil between principal neurons. Nicotinic and muscarinic receptors were expressed differentially in the VCN, with nicotinic receptors being mostly expressed in dendritic areas while muscarinic receptors were located predominantly in somatic membranes. These anatomical data support physiological indications that cholinergic innervation plays a role in modulating information processing in the cochlear nucleus.
Time course of cytochrome oxidase blob plasticity in the primary visual cortex of adult monkeys after retinal laser lesions
Authors: Farias Mariana F. , Ungerleider Leslie G. , Pereira Sandra S. , Amorim Ana Karla J. , Soares Juliana G. M. , Gattass Ricardo
Published: March 2018

We studied the time course of changes of cytochrome oxidase (CytOx) blob spatial density and blob cross‐sectional area of deprived (D) and nondeprived (ND) portions of V1 in four capuchin monkeys after massive and restricted retinal laser lesions. Laser shots at the border of the optic disc produced massive retinal lesions, while low power laser shots in the retina produced restricted retinal lesions. These massive and restricted retinal lesions were intended to simulate glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, respectively. We used a Neodymium‐YAG dual frequency laser to make the lesions. We measured Layer III blobs in CytOx‐reacted tangential sections of flat‐mounted preparations of V1. The plasticity of the blob system and that of the ocular dominance columns (ODC) varied with the degree of retinal lesions. We found that changes in the blob system were different from that of the ODC. Blob sizes changed drastically in the region corresponding to the retinal lesion. Blobs were larger and subjectively darker above and below the non deprived ODC than in the deprived columns. With restricted lesions, blobs corresponding to the ND columns had sizes similar to those from non‐lesioned areas. In contrast, blobs corresponding to the deprived columns were smaller than those from nonlesioned areas. With massive lesions, ND blobs were larger than the deprived blobs. Plastic changes in blobs described here occur much earlier than previously described.
Morphological evidence for novel enteric neuronal circuitry in guinea pig distal colon
Authors: Smolilo D.J. , Costa M. , Hibberd T.J. , Wattchow D.A. , Spencer Nick J.
Published: March 2018

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is unique compared to all other internal organs; it is the only organ with its own nervous system and its own population of intrinsic sensory neurons, known as intrinsic primary afferent neurons (IPANs). How these IPANs form neuronal circuits with other functional classes of neurons in the enteric nervous system (ENS) is incompletely understood. We used a combination of light microscopy, immunohistochemistry and confocal microscopy to examine the topographical distribution of specific classes of neurons in the myenteric plexus of guinea‐pig colon, including putative IPANs, with other classes of enteric neurons. These findings were based on immunoreactivity to the neuronal markers, calbindin, calretinin and nitric oxide synthase. We then correlated the varicose outputs formed by putative IPANs with subclasses of excitatory interneurons and motor neurons. We revealed that calbindin‐immunoreactive varicosities form specialized structures resembling ‘baskets’ within the majority of myenteric ganglia, which were arranged in clusters around calretinin‐immunoreactive neurons. These calbindin baskets directly arose from projections of putative IPANs and represent morphological evidence of preferential input from sensory neurons directly to a select group of calretinin neurons. Our findings uncovered that these neurons are likely to be ascending excitatory interneurons and excitatory motor neurons. Our study reveals for the first time in the colon, a novel enteric neural circuit, whereby calbindin‐immunoreactive putative sensory neurons form specialized varicose structures that likely direct synaptic outputs to excitatory interneurons and motor neurons. This circuit likely forms the basis of polarized neuronal pathways underlying motility.
Numerical zero‐dimensional hepatic artery hemodynamics model for balloon‐occluded transarterial chemoembolization
Authors: Aramburu Jorge , Antón Raúl , Rivas Alejandro , Ramos Juan Carlos , Larraona Gorka S. , Sangro Bruno , Bilbao José Ignacio
Published: March 2018

Balloon‐occluded transarterial chemoembolization (B‐TACE) is a valuable treatment option for patients with inoperable malignant tumors in the liver. Balloon‐occluded transarterial chemoembolization consists of the transcatheter infusion of an anticancer drug mixture and embolic agents. Contrary to conventional TACE, B‐TACE is performed via an artery‐occluding microballoon catheter, which makes the blood flow to redistribute due to the intra‐ and extrahepatic arterial collateral circulation. Several recent studies have stressed the importance of the redistribution of blood flow in enhancing the treatment outcome. In the present study, the geometries of a representative hepatic artery and the communicating arcades (CAs) are modeled. An in silico zero‐dimensional hemodynamic model is created by characterizing the geometry and the boundary conditions and then is validated in vitro. The role of CAs is assessed by combining 2 cancer scenarios and 2 catheter locations. The importance of the diameter of the CAs is also studied. Results show that occluding a main artery leads to collateral circulation and CAs start to play a role in blood‐flow redistribution. In summary, numerical zero‐dimensional simulations permit a fast and reliable approach for exploring the blood‐flow redistribution caused by the occlusion of a main artery, and this approach could be used during B‐TACE planning.
Numerical approximation of the electromechanical coupling in the left ventricle with inclusion of the Purkinje network
Authors: Landajuela Mikel , Vergara Christian , Gerbi Antonello , Dedè Luca , Formaggia Luca , Quarteroni Alfio
Published: March 2018

In this work, we consider the numerical approximation of the electromechanical coupling in the left ventricle with inclusion of the Purkinje network. The mathematical model couples the 3D elastodynamics and bidomain equations for the electrophysiology in the myocardium with the 1D monodomain equation in the Purkinje network. For the numerical solution of the coupled problem, we consider a fixed‐point iterative algorithm that enables a partitioned solution of the myocardium and Purkinje network problems. Different levels of myocardium‐Purkinje network splitting are considered and analyzed. The results are compared with those obtained using standard strategies proposed in the literature to trigger the electrical activation. Finally, we present a numerical study that, although performed in an idealized computational domain, features all the physiological issues that characterize a heartbeat simulation, including the initiation of the signal in the Purkinje network and the systolic and diastolic phases.
Plasmonic and Photonic Effects on Hydrogen Evolution over Chemically Modified Titania Inverse Opals
Authors: Rahul Theyyathum Kavil , Sandhyarani Neelakandapillai
Published: March 2018

The photonic effects of chemically modified titania inverse opals can be exploited for improving photocatalytic hydrogen production. This work reports the in situ preparation of gold‐platinum nanoparticle (NP)‐loaded and nitrogen‐fluorine co‐doped titania inverse opal photocatalysts with different photonic band gaps (PBGs). In situ loading of gold and platinum NPs was carried out during the preparation of titania inverse opals by treating the titania precursor with gold chloride and platinum chloride. Au−Pt/N−F TiO2 IO‐460 samples with the photonic effects matching the surface plasmon resonance region of Au NPs displayed a maximum activity with a hydrogen production rate of 134 mmol h−1 g−1. The hydrogen yield (97 mmol h−1 g−1) obtained for Au−Pt/N−F TiO2 IO‐215, with the photonic effects close to the electronic bandgap of titania was also high when compared to that of the nanocrystalline counterpart, Au−Pt/N−F nc‐TiO2 (49 mmol h−1 g−1). Excellent solar hydrogen evolution profile was observed for in situ gold‐platinum NP‐loaded and nitrogen‐fluorine co‐doped titania inverse opal photocatalysts when compared to recent reports.
Spectral Algorithms for Tensor Completion
Authors: Montanari Andrea , Sun Nike
Published: March 2018

In the tensor completion problem, one seeks to estimate a low‐rank tensor based on a random sample of revealed entries. In terms of the required sample size, earlier work revealed a large gap between estimation with unbounded computational resources (using, for instance, tensor nuclear norm minimization) and polynomial‐time algorithms. Among the latter, the best statistical guarantees have been proved, for third‐order tensors, using the sixth level of the sum‐of‐squares (sos) semidefinite programming hierarchy. However, the sos approach does not scale well to large problem instances. By contrast, spectral methods—based on unfolding or matricizing the tensor—are attractive for their low complexity, but have been believed to require a much larger sample size.

This paper presents two main contributions. First, we propose a new method, based on unfolding, which outperforms naive ones for symmetric kth‐order tensors of rank r. For this result we make a study of singular space estimation for partially revealed matrices of large aspect ratio, which may be of independent interest. For third‐order tensors, our algorithm matches the sos method in terms of sample size (requiring about rd3/2 revealed entries), subject to a worse rank condition (r ≪ d3/4 rather than r ≪ d3/2). We complement this result with a different spectral algorithm for third‐order tensors in the overcomplete (r ≥ d) regime. Under a random model, this second approach succeeds in estimating tensors of rank d ≤ r ≪ d3/2 from about rd3/2 revealed entries. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effective Dynamics of the Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation on Large Domains
Authors: Buckmaster T. , Germain P. , Hani Z. , Shatah J.
Published: March 2018

We consider the nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) equation posed on the box [0,L]dwith periodic boundary conditions. The aim is to describe the long‐time dynamics by derivingeffective equationsfor it whenLis large and the characteristic sizeɛof the data is small. Such questions arise naturally when studying dispersive equations that are posed on large domains (like water waves in the ocean), and also in the theory of statistical physics of dispersive waves, which goes by the name of “wave turbulence.” Our main result is deriving a new equation, thecontinuous resonant(CR) equation, which describes the effective dynamics for largeLand smallɛover very large timescales. Such timescales are well beyond the (a) nonlinear timescale of the equation, and (b) the euclidean timescale at which the effective dynamics are given by (NLS) on ℝd. The proof relies heavily on tools from analytic number theory, such as a relatively modern version of the Hardy‐Littlewood circle method, which are modified and extended to be applicable in a PDE setting.© 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Strong Photonic‐Band‐Gap Effect on the Spontaneous Emission in 3D Lead Halide Perovskite Photonic Crystals
Authors: Zhou Xue , Li Mingzhu , Wang Kang , Li Huizeng , Li Yanan , Li Chang , Yan Yongli , Zhao Yongsheng , Song Yanlin
Published: March 2018

Stimulated emission in perovskite‐embedded polymer opal structures is investigated. A polymer opal structure is filled with a perovskite, and perovskite photonic crystals are prepared. The spontaneous emission of the perovskite embedded in the polymer opal structures exhibits clear signatures of amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) via gain modulation. The difference in refractive‐index contrast between the perovskite and the polymer opal is large enough for retaining photonic‐crystals properties. The photonic band gap has a strong effect on the fluorescence emission intensity and lifetime. The stimulated emission spectrum exhibits a narrow ASE rather than a wide fluorescence peak in the thin film.
Molecular Modeling Approach to Determine the Flory‐Huggins Interaction Parameter for Polymer Miscibility Analysis
Authors: Callaway Connor P. , Hendrickson Kayla , Bond Nicholas , Lee Seung Min , Sood Parveen , Jang Seung Soon
Published: March 2018

In this work, we present a thorough procedure for estimating the Flory‐Huggins χ‐parameter for use in atomistic and mesoscale molecular simulations in computational materials science. In particular, we propose improvements upon traditional Flory‐Huggins theory by implementing a Connolly volume normalization (CVN). We apply this technique to several test systems, including a blend of poly (epichlorohydrin) and poly (methyl acrylate), a blend of polyethylene glycol and poly (methyl methacrylate), a blend of polystyrene and deuterated polystyrene, and three molecular‐weight variants (monomer, dimer, and trimer) of a triblock copolymer for use in multicompartment micelle applications. Our results demonstrate that the newly developed procedure offers high accuracy and efficiency in predicting the Flory‐Huggins χ‐parameter for miscibility analysis compared to traditional experimental and computational methods. There are still several factors that cause the magnitude of the χ‐parameter to vary between simulations performed on molecular species with the same identity but different degrees of polymerization; although we discuss possible explanations for these factors, this is nonetheless a primary focus for further exploration into this new methodology.
Revealing the Self‐Degradation Mechanisms in Methylammonium Lead Iodide Perovskites in Dark and Vacuum
Authors: Gunasekaran Rajendra Kumar , Chinnadurai Deviprasath , Selvaraj Aravindha Raja , Rajendiran Rajmohan , Senthil Karuppanan , Prabakar Kandasamy
Published: March 2018

Organic‐inorganic lead halide perovskite phases segregate (and their structures degrade) under illumination, exhibiting a poor stability with hysteresis and producing halide accumulation at the surface.In this work, we observed structural and interfacial dissociation in methylammonium lead iodide (CH3NH3PbI3) perovskites even under dark and vacuum conditions. Here, we investigate the origin and consequences of self‐degradation in CH3NH3PbI3 perovskites stored in the dark under vacuum. Diffraction and photoelectron spectroscopic studies reveal the structural dissociation of perovskites into PbI2, which further dissociates into metallic lead (Pb0) and I2− ions, collectively degrading the perovskite stability. Using TOF‐SIMS analysis, AuI2− formation was directly observed, and it was found that an interplay between CH3NH3+, I3−, and mobile I− ions continuously regenerates more I2− ions, which diffuse to the surface even in the absence of light. Besides, halide diffusion causes a concentration gradient between Pb0 and I2− and creates other ionic traps (PbI2−, PbI−) that segregate as clusters at the perovskite/gold interface. A shift of the onset of the absorption band edge towards shorter wavelengths was also observed by absorption spectroscopy, indicating the formation of defect species upon aging in the dark under vacuum.
Length‐Dependent Manifestation of Vibration Modes Regulates a Specific Intermediate Morphology of Aβ17‐42 in Different Environments
Authors: Choi Hyunsung , Yoon Taeyoung , Na Sungsoo
Published: March 2018

Various cytotoxic mechanisms for neurodegenerative disease are induced by specific conformations of Aβ intermediates. The efforts to understand the diverse intermediate forms of amyloid oligomers have been focused on understanding the aggregation mechanism of specific morphologies for Aβ intermediates. However, these are still not easy tasks to be accomplished because the diverse conformations of Aβ intermediates can be altered during the aggregation process, even though the same Aβ monomers are present. Thus, efforts to reveal the conformational change mechanism could be a fundamental process to understand the formation of diverse Aβ intermediate conformations. Here, we evaluate the conformational characteristics of Aβ17–42 fibrillar oligomers in different environments according to the length. We observed that Aβ fibrillar oligomers optimize their inherent hydrogen bonds and configurational entropy to stabilize their structure according to the simulation time and their length increase. In addition, we revealed the role of the expressed vibration mode shape in the fibrillar oligomers′ elongation and deformation processes. Our results suggest that limitations in amyloid oligomer growth and transformations of their morphologies can be regulated and controlled by modifying the vibration features.
Polymer‐Brush‐Grafted Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles for Triggered Drug Delivery
Authors: Zhang Li , Bei Ho Pan , Piao Yun , Wang Yufeng , Yang Mo , Zhao Xin
Published: March 2018

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have been demonstrated to be one of the most promising drug‐delivery systems (DDSs) to transport a variety of drugs/biomolecules. Functionalization of MSN surfaces with responsive polymer brushes leads to intelligent and controllable drug‐delivery properties, that is, the encapsulated drugs/biomolecules will only be released upon certain stimuli including pH, temperature, light, enzyme, ultrasound, or redox, thus maximizing their therapeutic efficiency and minimizing side effects. These polymer brushes can also increase the stability and extend the release period of the loaded cargoes. This Minireview presents an overview of recent research progress on stimuli‐responsive controlled DDSs based on polymer‐brush‐grafted MSNs. Utilizing the switching abilities of the grafted responsive polymer brushes, the smart DDSs show great potential for biomedical applications, especially for cancer therapy.
Copper Affects the Location of Zinc in Bimetallic Ion‐Exchanged Mordenite
Authors: Reule Allen A. C. , Shen Jing , Semagina Natalia
Published: March 2018

Bimetallic ion exchange on a zeolite often impacts its catalytic properties compared to its monometallic counterparts. Here, we address the synergistic effect of simultaneous copper and zinc ion exchange on mordenite (MOR), as found earlier for dimethyl ether (DME) carbonylation. Samples with various Cu/Zn ratios were characterized by diffuse‐reflectance infrared Fourier‐transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) in the 3600 and 720 cm−1 regions, pore distribution analysis through Ar physisorption, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), temperature‐programmed reduction (TPR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). When ion‐exchanged alone, copper preferentially occupies 12‐membered rings, whereas zinc occupies 8‐membered rings. In bimetallic combinations, the zinc addition was found to prevent the copper from sintering into nanoparticles and to increase its coordination strength to the zeolite. At a Cu/Zn ratio of 0.25 (for MOR with Si/Al=6.5), copper promotes zinc ion exchange into 12‐membered rings, more specifically, into T4 sites that are known for the formation of the coke precursor in DME carbonylation on a MOR. The sites became blocked during the bimetallic ion exchange, leading to suppressed catalyst deactivation. The study contributes to the understanding of mutual ion effects in bimetallic exchanged zeolites and highlights the major role of copper as a governing factor in determining the location of co‐exchanged zinc on a MOR.
Polydopamine Particle‐Filled Shape‐Memory Polyurethane Composites with Fast Near‐Infrared Light Responsibility
Authors: Yang Li , Tong Rui , Wang Zhanhua , Xia Hesheng
Published: March 2018

A new kind of fast near‐infrared (NIR) light‐responsive shape‐memory polymer composites was prepared by introducing polydopamine particles (PDAPs) into commercial shape‐memory polyurethane (SMPU). The toughness and strength of the polydopamine‐particle‐filled polyurethane composites (SMPU‐PDAPs) were significantly enhanced with the addition of PDAPs due to the strong interface interaction between PDAPs and polyurethane segments. Owing to the outstanding photothermal effect of PDAPs, the composites exhibit a rapid light‐responsive shape‐memory process in 60 s with a PDAPs content of 0.01 wt%. Due to the excellent dispersion and convenient preparation method, PDAPs have great potential to be used as high‐efficiency and environmentally friendly fillers to obtain novel photoactive functional polymer composites.
Visible‐Light‐Activated Black Organotitanias: How Synthetic Conditions Influence Their Structure and Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Jiménez‐López Jesús , Linares Noemi , Serrano Elena , García‐Martínez Javier
Published: March 2018

A series of low‐temperature, visible‐light‐activated black organotitanias were synthesised through a sol–gel strategy that allowed the in situ incorporation of p‐phenylenediamine (PPD) into the framework of anatase nanoparticles. The effect of the synthetic conditions on the crystalline structure and photocatalytic activity of these materials was assessed by several characterisation techniques, which revealed a small crystalline domain size (4.6–5.5 nm), effective incorporation of PPD inside the nanoparticles, and a significant reduction in the band gap of these materials (from 3.2 to 2.7–2.9 eV). A systematic study of the synthetic parameters also allowed a significant reduction of the solvent used for the preparation of these black organotitanias (20‐fold), as well as the crystallisation time, without compromising the structural properties and photocatalytic activity of these materials. The organotitanias with the highest PPD content and high crystallinity result in the best performing materials in the photocatalytic degradation of rhodamine 6G under both UV‐ and visible‐light irradiation.
The influence of psychosocial factors in veteran adjustment to civilian life
Authors: Bowes Margaret A. , Ferreira Nuno , Henderson Mike
Published: March 2018

Aim

Although most veterans have a successful transition to civilian life when they leave the military, some struggle to cope and adjust to the demands and challenges of civilian life. This study explores how a variety of psychosocial factors influence veteran adjustment to civilian life in Scotland, UK, and which of these factors predict a poor adjustment.

Methods

One hundred and fifty‐four veterans across Scotland completed a set of questionnaires that measured veteran adjustment difficulty, quality of life, mental health, stigma, self‐stigma, attitude towards help‐seeking, likelihood of help‐seeking, experiential avoidance, reappraisal and suppression.

Results

Veteran adjustment difficulty and quality of life were significantly correlated to a number of psychosocial factors. Mental health, experiential avoidance and cognitive reappraisal were found to be predictors of veteran adjustment difficulty, and experiential avoidance and cognitive reappraisal partially mediated the relationship between mental health and veteran adjustment, with experiential avoidance being the stronger mediator.

Discussion

Our findings suggest that early assessment of experiential avoidance and cognitive reappraisal and the provision of relevant emotion regulation skills training could potentially reduce the veteran's need for more complex (and costly) psychological interventions in the future. Implications for veterans, as well as the services and professionals involved with veteran transition and health care are discussed.