bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perancangan Arsitektur Aplikasi Learning Management System Di Universitas Slamet Riyadi
Authors: Betri Tigus Juni , Utami Ema , Al Fatta Hanif
Published: December 2017

E-Learning is one of the solutions in current learning system. Implementation of electronic-based learning, teaching and learning process can be more varied at the same time can eliminate the saturation of learners. Implementation of E-Learning or well known as Learning Management System at Slamet Riyadi University Surakarta, so far not running maximally. Among the most fundamental features available are not in accordance with the standards of application of E-Learning. The solution for this problem is better to design a new system. The development model used is to adopt the Borg and Gall model with the outline of the prototype application. In developing this prototype, data collection needs of users is done to relevant stakeholders, namely Information Technology Education courses, students and lecturers as end users as well as experts in the field of IT and curriculum. The results showed, based on the questionnaire to end users can be concluded that the prototype offered can be accepted among the end users and experts. This is shown from the statistical results of the analysis of the influence between variables that are formulated. Hypothesis of influence between variables most or dominant produce prototype acceptable.
Arystotelesowska koncepcja człowieka podstawą racjonalnej działalności gospodarczej
Authors: Zawojska Teresa
Published: December 2017

W artykule podjęto zagadnienie związku zachodzącego między wyznaczonym celem działalności gospodarczej a wcześniej przyjętą (implicite lub explicite) koncepcją człowieka. Analiza dzieł Stagiryty pokazuje, że u podstaw działalności wytwórczej pojmowanej nie jako cel sam w sobie, lecz jako narzędzie wspomagające rozwój naturalnych ludzkich potencjalności, stoi arystotelesowska koncepcja człowieka. Stagiryta zdefiniował człowieka jako istotę żyjącą (tj. cielesną), która posiada rozum. Oznacza to, że życie ludzkie postrzegał jako rozpięte między dwoma biegunami: zmysłowością wspólną ze światem zwierzęcym a rozumnością właściwą tylko człowiekowi, dzięki której transcenduje ową zmysłowość. Stąd Arystotelesowskie przekonanie, że wszelkie działania, w tym działania ekonomiczne, powinny uwzględniać transcendentny charakter bytu ludzkiego, nakierowanego na realizację celu, jakim jest rozwój ludzkiej rozumnej natury.
Preferencje konsumentów na rynku żywności w Polsce w warunkach deflacji w latach 2014–2015
Authors: Świetlik Krystyna
Published: December 2017

Celem artykułu jest zobrazowanie oraz ocena zmian poziomu i struktury wydatków gospodarstw domowych na żywność, a także spożycia żywności w gospodarstwach domowych w warunkach deflacji w latach 2014–2015. W wyniku przeprowadzonych analiz stwierdzono, że spożycie żywności uległo dużym ilościowym i jakościowym zmianom. Wzrosły realne wydatki gospodarstw domowych na żywność, po spadkach notowanych w latach 2009–2013. Jednocześnie nastąpiło zmniejszenie wolumenu spożycia żywności, co oznacza przesunięcie preferencji konsumentów w kierunku droższego wariantu wyżywienia. Zmalał popyt gospodarstw domowych na proste, nieprzetworzone produkty spożywcze, a wzrósł – na artykuły żywnościowe wysoko przetworzone, o wyższej jakości, wygodne w użyciu, oszczędzające czas na przygotowanie posiłków, wpływające na urozmaicenie i podniesienie wartości żywieniowej diety. Znacznie wzrosły wydatki gospodarstw domowych na usługi gastronomiczne. Skala tych zjawisk wskazuje na wyraźną zmianę preferencji nabywców żywności.
Specyfika prosumpcji jako zmiany w zachowaniach rynkowych nabywców finalnych ze względu na miejsce ich zamieszkania
Authors: Iwanicka Anna
Published: December 2017

Artykuł ten jest opracowaniem teoretyczno-empirycznym. W części teoretycznej przedstawiono specyfikę zachowań rynkowych współczesnych nabywców finalnych. Celem badawczym opracowania było dokonanie analizy porównawczej dwóch segmentów respondentów wyodrębnionych na podstawie kryterium miejsca zamieszkania pod kątem podejmowanych przez nich form aktywności prosumpcyjnej. Nie potwierdzono hipotezy badawczej, iż miejsce zamieszkania nabywców różnicuje ich aktywność prosumpcyjną.
Analysis of Work Performance and Export Competitiveness in Province of Indonesia
Authors: Rosita Nani
Published: December 2017

The purpose of this study is to analyse the export performance of provinces in Indonesia, the effect of export and capital stock on the long-term and short-term economic growth of Indonesia and the competitiveness of provinces in exporting Indonesia’s leading products. The panel data from 33 provinces in Indonesia from 2000-2016 is used in this study. The secondary data is consist of gross regional domestic product (GRDP), export value and gross fixed capital formation (GFCF). Export performance is measured using regional export performance index meanwhile, the effect of export and capital stock on long-term and short-term economic growth is analysed using cointegrated panel model and error correction model (ECM) panel. Finally, RCA dynamic is used in analysing export competitiveness. The results show that export performance of each province have various rating on the regional economies. Only 11 provinces have regional export performance index higher than while, meaning that only 33.3% of the total provinces, while the rest of the provinces have index that are less than one. This shows that only few provinces that can provide good performance of export. Based on the co-integrated test, there is a long-term relation between GRDP, export and GFCF. In both long-term and short-term, export and GFCF have positive impact on GRDP showing that the increase in export and/or GFCF will increase GRDP, which will results in economic growth. Furthermore, the results of RCA dynamic show that the export competitiveness is not always following the growth of national export segment. Indonesia’s rubber and coal exports have negative growth of national export segment while export of palm oil, coffee and textile have positive growth.Keywords:     export performance, competitiveness, export led growth, cointegrate panel, ECM panel
A critical review of recent clinical practice guidelines for pediatric urinary tract infection
Authors: Chua Michael , Ming Jessica , Chang Shang-Jen , Dos Santos Joana , Mistry Niraj , Silangcruz Jan Michael , Bayley Mark , Koyle Martin A.
Published: December 2017

Introduction: Concerns regarding the quality, credibility, and applicability of recently published pediatric urinary tract infection (UTI) clinical practice guidelines have been raised due to the inconsistencies of recommendations between them. We aimed to determine the quality of the recent clinical practice guidelines on pediatric UTI by using the Appraisal of Guidelines Research and Evaluation (AGREE II) instrument, and summarize the standard of care in diagnosis and management of pediatric UTI from the top three clinical practice guidelines.Methods: A systematic literature search was performed on medical literature electronic databases and international guideline repository websites. English language-based clinical practice guidelines from 2007–2016 endorsed by any international society or government organization providing recommendations for the management of pediatric UTI were considered. Eligible clinical practice guidelines were independently appraised by six reviewers using the AGREE II tool. Clinical practice guidelines were assessed for standardized domains and summarized for overall quality. Interrater reliability was assessed using inter-class coefficient (ICC).Results: Thirteen clinical practice guidelines were critically reviewed. The Spanish clinical practice guidelines, American Academy of Pediatrics, and National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence clinical practice guidelines consistently scored high on all AGREE domains (total averaged domain scores 90, 88, and 88, respectively). Among the six reviewers, there was a high degree of inter-rater reliability (average measure ICC 0.938; p<0.0001). There is reasonable consensus among the top three clinical practice guidelines in their major recommendations.Conclusions: The clinical practice guidelines from Spain, American Academy of Pediatrics, and National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, with their major recommendations being similar, have scored highly on the AGREE II indicators of quality for the clinical practice guidelines development process.
Optimization of the Fenton Oxidation of Synthetic Textile Wastewater using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Thomas Maciej , Barbusiński Krzysztof , Kalemba Katarzyna , Piskorz Paweł Jan , Kozik Violetta , Bąk Andrzej
Published: December 2017

This article presents the possibility of using the classical Fenton process (Fe(II)/H2O2) to purify synthetic textile wastewater (COD=1872 mg O2/dm3, TOC=660 mg/dm3) containing azo dye Anilan Blue GRL 250% (200 mg/dm3) and Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) as anionic surfactant at a concentration of 95 mg/dm3. Model studies were carried out using RSM, obtaining a good fit of approximated values to experimental values (R2=0.9461 and R2adj=0.7379). For optimal process parameters (pH 3, Fe(II) 0.85 g/dm3, H2O2 14.5 g/dm3), complete decolourisation (<10 mg Pt/dm3) was achieved as well as a reduction in COD, TOC and SLS concentrations to 83%, 44% and 98%, respectively.
Morphological Characteristics of Equatorial Ionization Anomaly Crest Over Nanning Region
Authors: Mo X. H. , Zhang D. H. , Liu J. , Hao Y. Q. , Ye J. F. , Qin J. S. , Wei W. X. , Xiao Z.
Published: December 2017

Using the ionospheric total electron content (TEC) and the location of the equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) crest derived from GPS data observed at Nanning (22.84°N, 108.33°E, dip latitude ~ 12.14°N), China, a GPS station situated near the daytime EIA crest region, the local time, seasonal, and solar cycle variations of EIA crests from 2006 to 2015 was investigated. The TEC and the magnetic latitude (MLAT) location of EIA crest experience an ascendant and descendant process with the daytime evolution of EIA crest. Also, this diurnal variation of EIA crest depends on season and solar cycle. The TEC and MLAT location of EIA crest is stronger and higher in equinoctial months than that in solistial months showing a semiannual variation. The TEC and MLAT location of EIA crest increase with the solar activity. The local time, seasonal, and solar cycle variations of EIA crest is consistent with that of the strength of equatorial electrojet (EEJ). Comparatively, the correlation of the EEJ strength with the EIA location is better than that with the TEC of EIA crest.
Fluid–Structure Interaction Problems
Authors: Ohayon Roger , Schotté Jean‐Sébastien
Published: December 2017

Several reduced‐order formulations are reviewed in the case of linear vibration analysis of bounded fluid‐structure systems for low modal density situations. Compressibility effects in the fluid for interior structural‐acoustic problems, and free‐surface gravity effects, as well as for hydroelastic–sloshing interaction problems in the case of incompressible liquids, are examined. Reduced‐order models leading to symmetric matrix systems are then described using static well‐posed behavior of the irrotational fluid. In this respect, the fluid‐structure boundary value local equations, expressed in terms of fluid scalar field variables for the fluid (and displacement variables for the structure), are regularized for zero‐frequency limit.
Patient Perception of Disease‐Related Symptoms and Complications in Relapsing Polychondritis
Authors: Ferrada Marcela A. , Grayson Peter C. , Banerjee Shubhasree , A. Sikora Keith , A. Colbert Robert , Sinaii Ninet , Katz James D.
Published: December 2017

Objective

To assess patient‐reported symptoms and burden of disease in relapsing polychondritis (RP).

Methods

Patients with RP completed a disease‐specific online survey to identify symptoms attributed to illness. Patients were divided into subgroups based upon presence or absence of ear/nose, airway, or joint involvement. Pathway to diagnosis, treatment, and disease‐related complications were assessed within each subgroup.

Results

Data from 304 respondents were included in this analysis. Prior to diagnosis, most patients with RP went to the emergency room (54%), saw > 3 physicians (54%), and had symptoms for >5 years (64%). A concomitant diagnosis of fibromyalgia and absence of ear/nose or joint involvement was associated with diagnostic delay >1 year. Common diagnoses prior to RP diagnosis included asthma in patients with airway involvement (35% versus 22%; P = 0.03) and ear infection in patients with ear/nose involvement (51% versus 6%; P < 0.01). Patients with joint involvement were more likely to receive a glucocorticoid‐sparing agent (85% versus 13%; P < 0.01). Most patients reported a major complication, including disability (25%), tracheomalacia (16%), or hearing loss (34%). Patients with airway involvement reported more tracheomalacia (20% versus 4%; P < 0.01). Disability (24% versus 7%; P < 0.01) and hearing loss (39% versus 11%; P < 0.01) were prevalent in the joint involvement subgroup.

Conclusion

Patient‐reported data in RP highlight a significant burden of disease. Patterns of organ involvement may lead to diagnostic delay and influence treatment decisions, ultimately impacting the development of disease‐related complications. Timely diagnosis, standardization of treatment approaches, and prevention of disease‐related complications are major unmet needs in RP.
Si‐Doping Mediated Phase Control from β‐ to γ‐Form Li3VO4 toward Smoothing Li Insertion/Extraction
Authors: Liao Chaoyi , Wen Yanwei , Xia Zhiguo , Qin Ruihuan , Liu Xun , Yu Yao , Shan Bin , Zhai Tianyou , Li Huiqiao
Published: December 2017

The γ phase Li3VO4 which possesses higher ionic conductivity is more preferable for lithium ion batteries, but it is only stable at high temperature and would convert to low temperature β phase spontaneously when cooling down. Here, the phase control of Li3VO4 to stabilize its γ phase in room temperature is successfully mediated by introducing proper Si‐doping, and for the first time the electrochemical performances of γ‐Li3VO4 is investigated. It is found that pure γ‐Li3VO4 can be obtained in a doping ratio of x = 0.05–0.15 in Li3+xV1−xSixO4 with addition of excess Li source in synthesis design. The doping mechanism and the energy changes are investigated in detail by using the first principle calculations, it reveals that an interstitial Li+ is formed with doping of Si4+ in Li3VO4 to balance the system charge. When served as an anode, the Si‐doped γ‐Li3VO4 shows much smoothed Li+ insertion/extraction and enhanced cycle stability with only a single pair of redox peaks, which behaves much different with the complex multicouples of redox peaks in typical β‐Li3VO4. These changes in electrochemical performances implies that γ‐Li3VO4 can effectively accommodate Li+ in an easier and more facile way and relieved structure stress during the charge/discharge process.
Synthesis and Reactivity of an End‐Deck cyclo‐P4 Iron Complex
Authors: Cavaillé Anthony , Saffon‐Merceron Nathalie , Nebra Noel , Fustier‐Boutignon Marie , Mézailles Nicolas
Published: December 2017

Reduction of the FeII complex [(PhPP2Cy)FeCl2] (2) generated an electron‐rich and unsaturated Fe0 species, which was reacted with white phosphorus. The resulting new complex, [(PhPP2Cy)Fe(η4‐P4)] (3), is the first iron cyclo‐P4 complex and the only known stable end‐deck cyclo‐P4 complex outside Group V. Complex 3 features an FeII center, as shown by Mössbauer spectroscopy, associated to a P42− fragment. The distinct reactivity of complex 3 was rationalized by analysis of the molecular orbitals. Reaction of complex 3 with H+ afforded the unstable complex [(PhPP2Cy)Fe(η4‐P4)(H)]+ (4), whereas with CuCl and BCF, the complexes [(PhPP2Cy)Fe(η4:η1‐P4)(μ‐CuCl)]2 (5) and [(PhPP2Cy)Fe(η4:η1‐P4)B(C6F5)3] (6) were formed.
Trauma, Dissociation, and Chronic Shame – Reflections for Couple and Family Practice: An Interview with Kathy Steele
Authors: Codrington Rebecca
Published: December 2017

Dissociation and shame are pervasive in unresolved trauma and can be hard to recognise. It is not uncommon for couples and families who present for relationship counselling to have a history of trauma, and relational therapists need to be able to identify and know how to work with these individual symptoms in systemic work. Current trauma literature emphasises the importance of incorporating a somatic therapy focus alongside more traditional cognitive approaches. This interview with international trauma expert Kathy Steele includes an introduction to her work and reflections on its relevance for couple and family practice. In the interview Steele outlines her understanding of dissociation and chronic shame and how to work clinically when they are present.
Analyzing the influence of different synthetic talcs in waterborne polyurethane nanocomposites obtainment
Authors: Dias Guilherme , Prado Manoela , Le Roux Christophe , Poirier Mathilde , Micoud Pierre , Ligabue Rosane , Martin François , Einloft Sandra
Published: December 2017

Waterborne polyurethane (WPU) nanocomposites were produced utilizing synthetic talc in gel form in order to improve its physical–chemical properties. Synthetic talc manufactured in nano‐gel form are interesting because their interaction with water occurs through hydrogen bonding favoring fillers dispersion within the WPU matrix. WPUs are environmental friendly materials because no organic solvents are used in its production. The nanocomposites obtained with the three synthetic talc nano‐gel fillers presented a good dispersion even when higher amounts of fillers were added, as seen by X‐ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy analyses. The addition of synthetic talcs improved WPU nanocomposites mechanical properties. Storage and loss modulus results proved fillers incorporation into the WPU matrix corroborating with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results. Results demonstrated that synthetic talcs in nano‐gel form are interesting to obtain WPU nanocomposites with superior mechanical properties. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 46107.
Evolution and consumer psychology
Authors: Durante Kristina M. , Griskevicius Vladas
Published: December 2017

An evolutionary theoretical approach considers the adaptive function of behavior. Here we discuss what it means to use an evolutionary approach to generate predictions about consumer behavior and the value of applying an evolutionary lens to the study of consumer psychology. We begin with a discussion of the core insights of evolutionary theory and the common misperceptions associated with an evolutionary approach to the study of behavior. We then detail how specific evolutionarily informed theories can be applied to four core areas of consumer research: risk preference, competition and luxury consumption, self‐control and temporal preferences, and the consumer behavior of women and families. We also discuss the strengths and limitations of an evolutionarily informed research program.
In Situ Formation of Pt–Au Nanoparticles on Magnetic Composites Carriers: Tuning Catalytic Activity by Incorporation of Different Metal Oxides
Authors: Zhang Zewu , Wu Qiong , Bu Xiaohai , Hang Zusheng , Wang Zhangzhong , Wang Qikang , Ma Yuhang
Published: December 2017

Supported Pt─Au bimetal nanocatalysts have been prepared by an in situ reduction method followed by calcination in air and reduction in H2 atmosphere. The catalysts exhibit a typical yolk‐shell construction composed of a moveable magnetic Fe core and metal oxides shells decorated with Pt─Au nanoparticles. The structure of the bimetal nanocatalysts was characterized in detail by TEM, XRD, XPS, and N2 physical adsorption and the catalytic activity of the nanocatalysts was studied by the catalytic reduction of 4‐nitrophenol to 4‐nitrophenol. It is found that the bimetal nanocatalysts composed with the different metallic oxides (TiO2 and ZrO2) exhibited the comparable Pt─Au particles size (~10 nm). However, the content of Pt─Au nanoparticles was varied with the metallic oxides support. Pt─Au nanoparticles deposited uniformly on TiO2 with higher loadings, however the nanoparticles on ZrO2 exhibited remarkably lower content, which should be attributed to the abundant hydroxyl on TiO2 surface that served as the deposition site for Pt─Au nanoparticles. The result of the reduction reaction indicated that incorporation of TiO2 in the bimetal Pt─Au nanocatalyst could significantly improve the catalytic activity as compared with ZrO2 and m‐SiO2. A possible mechanism was proposed to explain the synergistic effect in the supported Pt─Au bimetal nanocatalysts.
Metabolic interaction between urea cycle and citric acid cycle shunt: A guided approach
Authors: Pesi Rossana , Balestri Francesco , Ipata Piero L.
Published: December 2017

This article is a guided pedagogical approach, devoted to postgraduate students specializing in biochemistry, aimed at presenting all single reactions and overall equations leading to the metabolic interaction between ureagenesis and citric acid cycle to be incorporated into a two‐three lecture series about the interaction of urea cycle with other metabolic pathways. We emphasize that citrate synthetase, aconitase, and isocitrate dehydrogenase, three enzymes of the citric acid cycle are not involved, thus creating a shunt in citric acid cycle. In contrast, the glutamic‐oxaloacetate transaminase, which does not belong to citric acid cycle, has a paramount importance in the metabolic interaction of the two cycles, because it generates aspartate, one of the two fuel molecules of urea cycle, anda‐ketoglutarate, an intermediate of the citric acid cycle. Finally, students should appreciate that balancing equations for all atoms and charges is not only a stoichiometric task, but strongly facilitates the discussion of the physiological roles of metabolic pathways. Indeed, this exercise has been used in the classroom, to encourage a deeper level of understanding of an important biochemical issue. © 2017 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 46(2):182–185, 2018.
Energy Consumption and Gypsum Scaling Assessment in a Hybrid Nanofiltration‐Reverse Osmosis‐Electrodialysis system
Authors: Turek Marian , Mitko Krzysztof , Laskowska Ewa , Chorążewska Marzena , Piotrowski Krzysztof , Jakóbik-Kolon Agata , Dydo Piotr
Published: December 2017

Hybrid and integrated membrane systems are often proposed as a way to increase the water recovery in desalination plants. Four different configurations of seawater desalination plants were compared: a standard single‐stage seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO), a hybrid SWRO‐electrodialysis (ED) system, a nanofiltration (NF)‐SWRO system, and an NF‐SWRO‐ED. Based on the laboratory results, the overall water recovery, energy consumption, scaling risk, and the composition of the generated waste brine were projected. An NF‐SWRO‐ED system was found as the best choice. The proposed system is able to produce highly concentrated brine, close to saturation with respect to sodium chloride. The brine can be further used in evaporated salt production or in the chlor‐alkali industry.
Improved Performance of Ionic Liquid Supercapacitors by using Tetracyanoborate Anions
Authors: Martins Vitor L. , Rennie Anthony J. R. , Sanchez‐Ramirez Nedher , Torresi Roberto M. , Hall Peter J.
Published: December 2017

Supercapacitors are energy storage devices designed to operate at higher power densities than conventional batteries, but their energy density is still too low for many applications. Efforts are made to design new electrolytes with wider electrochemical windows than aqueous or conventional organic electrolytes in order to increase energy density. Ionic liquids (ILs) with wide electrochemical stability windows are excellent candidates to be employed as supercapacitor electrolytes. ILs containing tetracyanoborate anions [B(CN)4] offer wider electrochemical stability than conventional electrolytes and maintain a high ionic conductivity (6.9 mS cm−1). Herein, we report the use of ILs containing the [B(CN)4] anion for such an application. They presented a high maximum operating voltage of 3.7 V, and two‐electrode devices demonstrate high specific capacitances even when operating at relatively high rates (ca. 20 F g−1 @ 15 A g−1). This supercapacitor stored more energy and operated at a higher power at all rates studied when compared with cells using a commonly studied ILs.
A Coordination Chemistry Approach to Fine‐Tune the Physicochemical Parameters of Lanthanide Complexes Relevant to Medical Applications
Authors: Le Fur Mariane , Molnár Enikő , Beyler Maryline , Kálmán Ferenc K. , Fougère Olivier , Esteban‐Gómez David , Rousseaux Olivier , Tripier Raphaël , Tircsó Gyula , Platas‐Iglesias Carlos
Published: December 2017

The geometric features of two pyclen‐based ligands possessing identical donor atoms but different site organization have a profound impact in their complexation properties toward lanthanide ions. The ligand containing two acetate groups and a picolinate arm arranged in a symmetrical fashion (L1) forms a Gd3+ complex being two orders of magnitude less stable than its dissymmetric analogue GdL2. Besides, GdL1 experiences a much faster dissociation following the acid‐catalyzed mechanism than GdL2. On the contrary, GdL1 exhibits a lower exchange rate of the coordinated water molecule compared to GdL2. These very different properties are related to different strengths of the Gd‐ligand bonds associated to steric effects, which hinder the coordination of a water molecule in GdL2 and the binding of acetate groups in GdL1.
Evaluation of the effects of AlkylPhenolic compounds on kinetic parameters in a moving bed biofilm reactor
Authors: Mohammadi Farzaneh , Bina Bijan , Amin Mohammad Mehdi , Pourzamani Hamid Reza , Yavari Zeynab , Shams Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2017

Alkylphenols (APs) received great attention in the past decade because they were on the priority hazardous substances list. The kinetics of a lab‐scale moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) that was fed with synthetic wastewater containing 4‐NonylPhenol (4‐NP) and 4‐tert‐OctylPhenol (4‐t‐OP) was investigated in this paper. The MBBR reactor was evaluated under different APs, organic loading rates, and hydraulic retention times (HRT). The substrate removal rate was predicted with the first‐order, second‐order, Stover‐Kincannon, and Monod substrate removal models. 4‐NP and 4‐t‐OP pollutants were removed in the different percentages of 87.1 to 99.9 % and 83.2 to 99.9 %, respectively. Biokinetic parameters, like Y, KS, k, μmax, and kd, that would be favourable to design an MBBR were evaluated. Based on the results, the second‐order (Grau), Stover‐Kincannon, and Monod models were observed to be the most suitable for this reactor. These models showed high correlation coefficients of about 99.6, 99.1, and 92.9 %, respectively. Consequently, these models could be utilized in anticipating the performance and design of MBBR reactors.
Cover Picture: Visible Light Accelerated Vinyl C–H Arylation in Pd‐Catalysis: Application in the Synthesis of ortho Tetra‐substituted Vinylarene Atropisomers (Chin. J. Chem. 1/2018)
Authors: Feng Jia , Li Bin , Jiang Julong , Zhang Mingkai , Ouyang Wenbai , Li Chunyu , Fu Yao , Gu Zhenhua
Published: December 2017

The cover picture shows a protocol of a palladium‐catalyzed arylation of vinylarenes with diaryliodonium salts with the assistance of visible light. A palladium‐vinylarene complex may be excited via the visible light irradiation, where the kinetic isotope effect (kH/kD) was around 1.1. However under darkness, the reaction proceeded very slowly, and the kinetic isotope was found as 3.6, indicating the C—H bond cleavage step is the rate‐determining step. This protocol avoided high reaction temperature and enabled us to access a series of ortho tetra‐substituted vinylarene atropisomers with high enantiospecificity. More details are discussed in the article by Gu et al. on page 11–14.

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Appropriateness vs value: Echocardiography in primary care
Authors: Bethge Amy , Penciu Oana , Baksh Salma , Parve Swapnil , Lobraico Jessika , Keller Andrew M.
Published: December 2017

Background

Despite efforts targeting the growth of healthcare spending within the United States, the current increase in expenditures remains a widespread systemic issue. The overuse of healthcare testing has previously been identified as a modifiable contributing factor. One such test, echocardiography, has seen a continuous increase in its rate of use. This test is frequently ordered by primary‐care physicians.

Hypothesis

In the setting of a low likelihood of disease, echocardiography does not substantially change cardiac therapy, even if appropriately ordered.

Methods

We randomly identified 500 patients who received an echocardiogram ordered by a primary‐care physician between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2014. Of these, 239 patient charts were reviewed and the following extracted: primary indication for the test, echocardiogram results, and changes in patient medical management. In addition, appropriateness of the test was assessed using the appropriate use criteria guidelines for echocardiography.

Results

Nearly 97% of the studies within the ambulatory primary‐care setting were appropriately ordered according to the appropriate use criteria. Among the 239 patients studied, only 52 had abnormalities and only 6 (2.5%) experienced a change in management that corresponded with the initial suspected diagnosis and echocardiographic findings.

Conclusions

To ensure the greatest value and optimize use of diagnostic testing, it may be necessary to develop a more comprehensive set of guidelines to assist clinicians to readily identify patient populations at low, moderate, and high risk for the presence of disease and provide educational interventions, including feedback regarding individual ordering behaviors.
Outcome of octogenarians with atrial fibrillation undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention: insights from the AFCAS registry
Authors: Lahtela Heli M. , Bah Aissa , Kiviniemi Tuomas , Nammas Wail , Schlitt Axel , Rubboli Andrea , Karjalainen Pasi P. , Proietti Marco , Hartikainen Juha E.K. , Lip Gregory Y.H. , Airaksinen K.E. Juhani
Published: December 2017

Background

More evidence is needed on the optimal antithrombotic regimen in elderly patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Hypothesis

Octogenarian patients (aged ≥80 years) with AF who underwent PCI have worse 12‐month clinical outcome, compared with younger patients.

Methods

We performed a post‐hoc analysis of data from the prospective, multicenter AFCAS registry, which enrolled consecutive patients with AF who underwent PCI and stenting. Outcome measures included major adverse cardiac/cerebrovascular events (MACCE; all‐cause death, myocardial infarction, repeat revascularization, stent thrombosis, or stroke/transient ischemic attack) and bleeding events at 12‐month follow‐up.

Results

Out of 925 AF patients enrolled in AFCAS registry, 195 (21.1%) were ≥80 years. Mean age was 82.9 ± 2.6 years; 41.5% were women; 32.3% had diabetes mellitus. Compared with patients aged <80 years, there were more females among the octogenarians (P < 0.001). Compared with younger patients, octogenarians smoked and had dyslipidemia less often, and presented more frequently with acute coronary syndrome. The frequency and duration of antithrombotic regimens prescribed at discharge were comparable. At 12‐month follow‐up, overall MACCE rate was higher in octogenarians compared with younger patients (27.7% vs 20.1%, P = 0.02). The rate of acute myocardial infarction was higher in octogenarians (9.2% vs 4.9%, P = 0.02), but the rates of all bleeds and BARC >2 bleeds were similar (P = 0.13, P = 0.29, respectively).

Conclusions

In real‐world patients with AF undergoing PCI, patients aged ≥80 years had higher incidence of MACCE at 12‐month follow‐up compared with younger patients, although they received comparable antithrombotic treatment. The rates of bleeding events were similar.
The long‐term prognostic value of highly sensitive cardiac troponin I in patients with acute pulmonary embolism
Authors: Lee Chuy Katherine , Hakemi Emad Uddin , Alyousef Tareq , Dang Geetanjali , Doukky Rami
Published: December 2017

Background

In patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE), detectable levels of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) using a highly sensitive assay have been associated with increased in‐hospital mortality. We sought to investigate the impact of detectable cTnI on long‐term survival following acute PE.

Hypothesis

Detectable cTnI levels in patients presenting with acute PE predict increased long‐term mortality following hospital discharge.

Methods

In a retrospective cohort study, we analyzed consecutive patients with confirmed acute PE and cTnI assay available from the index hospitalization. The detectable cTnI level was ≥0.012 ng/mL. Patients were classified into low and high clinical risk groups according to the Pulmonary Embolism Severity Index (PESI) at presentation. Subjects were followed for all‐cause mortality subsequent to hospital discharge using chart review and Social Security Death Index.

Results

A cohort of 289 acute PE patients (mean age 56 years, 51% men), of whom 152 (53%) had a detectable cTnI, was followed for a mean of 3.1 ± 1.8 years after hospital discharge. A total of 71 deaths were observed; 44 (29%) and 27 (20%) in the detectable and undetectable cTnI groups, respectively (P = 0.05). Detectable cTnI was predictive of long‐term survival among low‐risk (P = 0.009) but not high‐risk patients (P = 0.78) who had high mortality rates irrespective of cTnI status.

Conclusions

In patients with acute PE, detectable cTnI is predictive of long‐term mortality, particularly among patients who were identified as low risk according to PESI score.
Chronic kidney disease and coronary artery calcification in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA‐Brasil)
Authors: Suh‐Chiou Cheng , Moysés Rosa M. , Bittencourt Marcio S. , Bensenor Isabela M. , Lotufo Paulo A.
Published: December 2017

Background

Chronic kidney disease is a worldwide public health concern due to the increased prevalence the high fatalities related to heart disease in this population. Among novel cardiovascular risk markers, the coronary artery calcification score (CAC) emerged as an independent predictor of cardiovascular events.

Hypothesis

We aimed to test if glomerular filtration rate or albuminuria are independently associated with coronary calcification.

Methods

The Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health is a cohort of men and women aged 35 to 74 years old addressing cardiovascular diseases. We analyzed the association of CAC, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), albumin‐to‐creatinine ratio (ACR) according to stages of eGFR (1 = ≥90; 2 = 60–89; 3 = <60 mL/min/1.73 m2), and ACR (<30; 30 to 300; >300 mg/g). These associations were estimated by logistic regression with a model including age, sex, race, income, and cardiovascular risk factors.

Results

Among 4189 persons (median age = 51 years, 54% women), 1183 had CAC. The odds ratio (OR) and the 95% confidence interval (95% CI) in the multivariate model was 0.86 (0.58‐1.29) for the category of eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73 m2 compared to people with eGFR >90 mL/min/1.73m2. On the other hand, the OR (95% CI) for individuals with ACR >300 mg/g was 4.31 (1.27‐14.64) compared to people with ACR <30 mg/g. A discrete interaction factor for the association with CAC between eGFR and ACR were analyzed as continuous variable.

Conclusions

Albuminuria was independently associated with coronary calcification, but the reduction of the glomerular filtration rate was not associated with CAC score in this sample of apparently healthy adults.
Clinical efficacy of irrigated catheter application of amiodarone during ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Huang Xingfu , Chen Yanjia , Huang Yuli , Zhao Hongxin , Chen Yanyu , He Liwei , Liu Shenrong , Shee Vikram , Xu Dingli , Peng Jian
Published: December 2017

Background

Pharmacological treatment during ablation of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) is common, but utility of irrigated catheter application of amiodarone during ablation of persistent AF remains unclear.

Hypothesis

Irrigated catheter application of amiodarone improves quality of ablation and long‐term outcomes.

Methods

We enrolled 90 persistent AF patients who underwent catheter ablation. Patients were randomized to the amiodarone group (n = 45) or control group (n = 45). All patients underwent stepwise ablation beginning with isolation of the pulmonary veins. Next, we performed ablation of linear lesions and focal triggers until sinus rhythm (SR) was achieved. The primary endpoint was documented atrial arrhythmia during follow‐up. The secondary endpoint was cardioversion to SR during ablation.

Results

All pulmonary veins were successfully isolated. Conversion of AF to SR occurred more frequently in the amiodarone group than in the control group (33 vs 23 [73.3% vs 51.1%]; P = 0.03). The amiodarone group had lower procedure, radiofrequency, and fluoroscopy times than the control group (167.4 ± 22.5 min vs 186.7 ± 25.3 min; 78.3 ± 14.2 min vs 90.4 ± 15.5 min; and 6.5 ± 1.9 min vs 8.6 ± 2.4 min, respectively; P < 0.05). More importantly, the atrial arrhythmia recurrence‐free survival rates were 80% in the amiodarone group and 60% in the control group during the 14.7 ± 7.5‐month follow‐up (P = 0.043).

Conclusions

Irrigated catheter application of amiodarone during ablation for persistent AF resulted in higher cardioversion rates and lower procedure times and significantly reduced rates of atrial arrhythmia recurrence.
Heterojunction Engineering for High Efficiency Cesium Formamidinium Double‐Cation Lead Halide Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wu Yihui , Wang Peng , Wang Shubo , Wang Zenghua , Cai Bing , Zheng Xiaojia , Chen Yu , Yuan Ningyi , Ding Jianning , Zhang Wen‐Hua
Published: December 2017

It is essential to minimize the interfacial trap states and improve the carrier collection for high efficiency perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, we present a facile method to construct a p‐type graded heterojunction (GHJ) in normal PSCs by deploying a gradient distribution of hole‐transporting materials (poly[bis(4‐phenyl)(2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl)amine], PTAA, in this case) in the shallow perovskite layer. The formation of the GHJ structure facilitates charge transfer and collection, and passivates interfacial trap states, thus delivering a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20.05 % along with steady output efficiency of 19.3 %, which is among the highest efficiencies for cesium formamidinium (Cs–FA) lead halide PSCs. Moreover, the unencapsulated devices based on these (Cs–FA) lead halide perovskites show excellent long‐term stability; more than 95 % of their initial PCE can be retained after 1440 h storage under ambient conditions. This study may provide an effective strategy to fabricate high‐efficiency PSCs with great stability.
Zebrafish Rfx4 controls dorsal and ventral midline formation in the neural tube
Authors: Sedykh Irina , Keller Abigail N. , Yoon Baul , Roberson Laura , Moskvin Oleg V. , Grinblat Yevgenya
Published: December 2017

Background: Rfx winged‐helix transcription factors, best known as key regulators of core ciliogenesis, also play ciliogenesis‐independent roles during neural development. Mammalian Rfx4 controls neural tube morphogenesis via both mechanisms. Results: We set out to identify conserved aspects of rfx4 gene function during vertebrate development and to establish a new genetic model in which to analyze these mechanisms further. To this end, we have generated frame‐shift alleles in the zebrafish rfx4 locus using CRISPR/Cas9 mutagenesis. Using RNAseq‐based transcriptome analysis, in situ hybridization and immunostaining we identified a requirement for zebrafish rfx4 in the forming midlines of the caudal neural tube. These functions are mediated, least in part, through transcriptional regulation of several zic genes in the dorsal hindbrain and of foxa2 in the ventral hindbrain and spinal cord (floor plate). Conclusions: The midline patterning functions of rfx4 are conserved, because rfx4 regulates transcription of foxa2 and zic2 in zebrafish and in mouse. In contrast, zebrafish rfx4 function is dispensable for forebrain morphogenesis, while mouse rfx4 is required for normal formation of forebrain ventricles in a ciliogenesis‐dependent manner. Collectively, this report identifies conserved aspects of rfx4 function and establishes a robust new genetic model for in‐depth dissection of these mechanisms. Developmental Dynamics 247:650–659, 2018. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ecohydrological drivers of Neotropical vegetation in montane ecosystems
Authors: Aparecido Luiza Maria T. , Teodoro Grazielle S. , Mosquera Giovanny , Brum Mauro , Barros Fernanda de V. , Pompeu Patricia Vieira , Rodas Melissa , Lazo Patricio , Müller Caroline S. , Mulligan Mark , Asbjornsen Heidi , Moore Georgianne W. , Oliveira Rafael S.
Published: December 2017

Montane ecosystems are known for their high numbers of endemic species, unique climate conditions, and wide variety of ecosystem services such as water supply and carbon storage. Although many ecohydrological and climatic studies of montane environments have been carried out in temperate and boreal regions, few have been done in Neotropical regions. Hence, the objective of this review is to synthesize the existing literature on the main factors (biotic and abiotic) that influence vegetation distribution, functional traits, and ecohydrological processes and feedbacks in tropical montane ecosystems and to identify key knowledge gaps. Most of the literature used includes work conducted in Neotropical montane rainforests, cloud forests, and grass/scrublands (e.g., páramos, punas, and campos de altitude/rupestres). Fog is a major climatic attribute in tropical montane habitats. We found that fog regimes (frequency and intensity of fog events) influence both water inputs (i.e., canopy interception and foliar water uptake) and outputs (evapotranspiration) and represent an important driver of local species composition, dominance of plant functional types, and ecological functioning. The stability and conservation of tropical montane ecosystems depends on such ecohydrological fluxes, which are sensitive to increases in air temperature and changing precipitation and fog regimes. Furthermore, to better inform effective conservation and restoration strategies, more work is needed to elucidate how key ecohydrological processes are affected by land use conversion to agriculture and pasture lands, as human activities influence the water budgets in Neotropical montane watersheds not only at regional‐scales but also globally.
Water regulation by grasslands: A global meta‐analysis
Authors: Sirimarco Ximena , Barral María Paula , Villarino Sebastian Horacio , Laterra Pedro
Published: December 2017

Grasslands have been modified and replaced worldwide and have affected water regulation ecosystem services. In order to support public policies attending to the consequences of different grassland modifications and replacements, general patterns and models about their consequences on water regulation are needed. We quantitatively meta‐analysed the results of 110 site‐specific studies analysing infiltration (83) and evapotranspiration (28) responses to grasslands alterations by grazing, crops, and afforestation and how these responses vary with environmental factors. In grasslands, soil water infiltration is significantly reduced by grazing and cropping on average by 51% and 57%, respectively. Water infiltration is increased by 65% in response to afforestation. The reduction of infiltration with grazing decreases with soil sand content and increases with the mean annual precipitation (PPT) and the ratio PPT/mean annual potential evapotranspiration. The replacement of grasslands by forests increases evapotranspiration by 30%, and the variation of this response was linearly related to PPT and the PPT/mean annual potential evapotranspiration ratio. There was a negative trend in evapotranspiration responses although not significant, when grasslands were replaced by crops or modified by grazing. Our meta‐analysis was able to reveal average patterns and the influence of local climate and soil properties on eco‐hydrological responses to grasslands modifications and replacements, which have not been previously described. These results may support general predictive models on the influence of land use changes and ecosystem services provision. Significant gaps were found in the number of studies, especially of evapotranspiration, precluding the achievement of a general conclusion regarding evapotranspiration and infiltration responses.
Development of Tri‐Stable Rotary Solenoid Actuator
Authors: TSUKIMA MITSURU , KAI TAKAYUKI , TAKAHASHI KAZUKI , TAKEUCHI TOSHIE , KOYAMA KENICHI
Published: December 2017

We have designed and developed a tri‐stable rotary solenoid actuator, which has a simple structure and simple operation. The plunger has two stabilities at the extreme positions along an angular stroke and the third stability at the center of it. The third has been successively achieved by using the electromagnetic restoring torque, which is designed to be larger than the inertia torque. The dynamic characteristics were determined by utilizing an optimal design program that is specially constructed based on the response surface method in order to design the coil winding and the power supply for the coil excitation. A prototype solenoid was constructed and used to verify the tri‐stable motions and accuracy of the previously constructed design program.
A Urinary Bladder Volume Measurement Circuit Using a Simplified Very Small Phase Difference Measurement Circuit
Authors: NOGUCHI TAKURO , FUKAI SUMIO , ISHIKAWA YOHEI , SHIMIZU AKIO , KIMOTO AKIRA , TOYODA ICHIHIKO
Published: December 2017

In order to implement the measurement and the evaluation of analog signals in high accuracy, to detect not only amplitude level but also phase information is necessary. For example, measurement of very small phase difference is desired in fields such as electric power and organism‐related. Particularly, in organism‐related field, impedance measurement is important and it is used to measure the urinary bladder volume, the respiratory volume, and so on. For these purposes, portable and real‐time measurement devices with small sized is suitable. In this paper, we propose the urinary bladder volume measurement circuit using a simplified very small phase difference measurement circuit. This circuit is able to infer the changes of urinary bladder volume by measuring bioimpedance and phase difference of urinary bladder noninvasively with four‐terminal method.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Reaction of a Both Inter‐ and Intramolecularly Coordinated Pseudocyclic Iodosylbenzene–Trifluoroacetic Acid Complexes
Authors: Yudasaka Masaharu , Maruyama Toshifumi , Yamaguchi Eiji , Tada Norihiro , Itoh Akichika
Published: December 2017

An ortho‐substituted ether‐oxygen‐coordinated pseudocyclic iodosylbenzene‐trifluoroacetic acid (pcISB‐TFA) complex was synthesized and characterized by X‐ray crystallographic analysis. TFA suppresses the disproportionation by both coordination of the oxygen atom to the iodine(III) center through secondary bonding and by hydrogen bonding to the oxygen anion. This bench‐stable reagent is highly soluble in common organic solvents and reacts with various organic substrates under mild reaction conditions to give the corresponding products in good yields.