Design and application of metal organic frameworks for heavy metals adsorption in water: a review

The growing apprehension surrounding heavy metal pollution in both environmental and industrial contexts has spurred extensive research into adsorption materials aimed at efficient remediation. Among these materials, Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) have risen as versatile and promising contenders due to their adjustable properties, expansive surface areas, and sustainable characteristics, compared to traditional options like activated carbon and zeolites. This exhaustive review delves into the synthesis techniques, structural diversity, and adsorption capabilities of MOFs for the effective removal of heavy metals. The article explores the evolution of MOF design and fabrication methods, highlighting pivotal parameters influencing their adsorption performance, such as pore size, surface area, and the presence of functional groups. In this perspective review, a thorough analysis of various MOFs is presented, emphasizing the crucial role of ligands and metal nodes in adapting MOF properties for heavy metal removal. Moreover, the review delves into recent advancements in MOF-based composites and hybrid materials, shedding light on their heightened adsorption capacities, recyclability, and potential for regeneration. Challenges for optimization, regeneration efficiency and minimizing costs for large-scale applications are discussed.

Evaluation of myocardial work changes after lung resection-the significance of surgical approach: an echocardiographic comparison between VATS and thoracotomy

OBJECTIVE

Considering the controversial benefits of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS), we intended to evaluate the impact of surgical approach on cardiac function after lung resection using myocardial work analysis.

METHODS

Echocardiographic data of 48 patients (25 thoracotomy vs. 23 VATS) were retrospectively analyzed. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) within 2 weeks before and after surgery, including two-dimensional speckle tracking and tissue Doppler imaging.

RESULTS

No notable changes in left ventricular (LV) function, assessed mainly using the LV global longitudinal strain (GLS), global myocardial work index (GMWI), and global work efficiency (GWE), were observed. Right ventricular (RV) TTE values, including tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), tricuspid annular systolic velocity (TASV), right ventricular global longitudinal strain (RVGLS), and RV free-wall GLS (RVFWGLS), indicated greater RV function impairment in the thoracotomy group than in the VATS group [TAPSE(mm) 17.90 ± 3.80 vs. 21.00 ± 3.48, p = 0.006; d = 0.84; TASV(cm/s): 12.40 ± 2.90 vs. 14.70 ± 2.40, p = 0.004, d = 0.86; RVGLS(%): - 16.00 ± 4.50 vs. - 19.40 ± 2.30, p = 0.012, d = 0.20; RVFWGLS(%): - 11.50 ± 8.50 vs. - 18.31 ± 5.40, p = 0.009, d = 0.59; respectively].

CONCLUSIONS

Unlike RV function, LV function remained preserved after lung resection. The thoracotomy group exhibited greater RV function impairment than did the VATS group. Further studies should evaluate the long-term impact of surgical approach on cardiac function.

A simple and reliable QSPR model for prediction of chromatography retention indices of volatile organic compounds in peppers

Worldwide, various types of pepper are used in food as an additive due to their unique pungency, aroma, taste, and color. This spice is valued for its pungency contributed by the alkaloid piperine and aroma attributed to volatile essential oils. The essential oils are composed of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in different concentrations and ratios. In chromatography, the identification of compounds is done by comparing obtained peaks with a reference standard. However, there are cases where reference standards are either unavailable or the chemical information of VOCs is not documented in reference libraries. To overcome these limitations, theoretical methodologies are applied to estimate the retention indices (RIs) of new VOCs. The aim of the present work is to develop a reliable QSPR model for the RIs of 273 identified VOCs of different types of pepper. Experimental retention indices were measured using comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography coupled to quadrupole mass spectrometry (GC × GC/qMS) using a coupled BPX5 and BP20 column system. The inbuilt Monte Carlo algorithm of CORAL software is used to generate QSPR models using the hybrid optimal descriptor extracted from a combination of SMILES and HFG (hydrogen-filled graph). The whole dataset of 273 VOCs is used to make ten splits, each of which is further divided into four sets: active training, passive training, calibration, and validation. The balance of correlation method with four target functions i.e. TF0 (WIIC = WCII = 0), TF1 (WIIC = 0.5 & WCII = 0), TF2 (WIIC = 0 & WCII = 0.3) and TF3 (WIIC = 0.5 & WCII = 0.3) is used. The results of the statistical parameters of each target function are compared with each other. The simultaneous application of the index of ideality of correlation (IIC) and correlation intensity index (CII) improves the predictive potential of the model. The best model is judged on the basis of the numerical value of R2 of the validation set. The statistical result of the best model for the validation set of split 6 computed with TF3 (WIIC = 0.5 & WCII = 0.3) is R2 = 0.9308, CCC = 0.9588, IIC = 0.7704, CII = 0.9549, Q2 = 0.9281 and RMSE = 0.544. The promoters of increase/decrease for RI are also extracted using the best model (split 6). Moreover, the proposed model was used for an external validation set.

In-silico activity prediction and docking studies of some flavonol derivatives as anti-prostate cancer agents based on Monte Carlo optimization

The QSAR models are employed to predict the anti-proliferative activity of 81 derivatives of flavonol against prostate cancer using the Monte Carlo algorithm based on the index of ideality of correlation (IIC) criterion. CORAL software is employed to design the QSAR models. The molecular structures of flavonols are demonstrated using the simplified molecular input line entry system (SMILES) notation. The models are developed with the hybrid optimal descriptors i.e. using both SMILES and hydrogen-suppressed molecular graph (HSG). The QSAR model developed for split 3 is selected as a prominent model ([Formula: see text]= 0.727, [Formula: see text]= 0.628, [Formula: see text]= 0.642, and [Formula: see text]=0.615). The model is interpreted mechanistically by identifying the characteristics responsible for the promoter of the increase or decrease. The structural attributes as promoters of increase of pIC₅₀ were aliphatic carbon atom connected to double-bound (C…=…, aliphatic oxygen atom connected to aliphatic carbon (O…C…), branching on aromatic ring (c…(…), and aliphatic nitrogen (N…). The pIC₅₀ of eight natural flavonols with pIC₅₀ more than 4.0, were predicted by the best model. The molecular docking is also performed for natural flavonols on the PC-3 cell line using the protein (PDB: 3RUK).

Low-temperature synthesis, characterization and photocatalytic properties of lanthanum vanadate LaVO4

In this study, we have successfully prepared tetragonal lanthanum vanadate LaVO₄ nanoparticles by a facile co-precipitation method at room temperature. The obtained materials were characterized using different structural and micro-structural techniques such as the characterization by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-Vis diffuse reflectance spectrum (DRS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Raman spectrometry. The obtained structure is crystallized in single tetragonal phase with pin-like nanostructure. A main optical transition with bandgap energy of 3.26 eV is evidenced, and the average lifetime of charges carriers was found to be 1 ns Furthermore, the photoluminescence occurs in the visible light range. The photocatalytic activity was evaluated by the photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) with initial concentration of 10 mg L^-1. The result indicates that LaVO₄ particles showed a best photocatalytic activity of 98.2% degradation for methylene blue solution after irradiation of 90 min under visible light. Furthermore, the photocatalytic mechanism and reusability were studied.

Correction: Ecotoxicological prediction of organic chemicals toward Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata by Monte Carlo approach

Correction for ‘Ecotoxicological prediction of organic chemicals toward Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata by Monte Carlo approach’ by Shahram Lotfi et al., RSC Adv., 2022, 12, 24988–24997, https://doi.org/10.1039/D2RA03936B.

Ecotoxicological prediction of organic chemicals toward Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata by Monte Carlo approach

In the ecotoxicological risk assessment, acute toxicity is one of the most significant criteria. Green alga Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata has been used for ecotoxicological studies to assess the toxicity of different toxic chemicals in freshwater. Quantitative Structure Activity Relationships (QSAR) are mathematical models to relate chemical structure and activity/physicochemical properties of chemicals quantitatively. Herein, Quantitative Structure Toxicity Relationship (QSTR) modeling is applied to assess the toxicity of a data set of 334 different chemicals on Pseudokirchneriella subcapitata, in terms of EC₁₀ and EC₅₀ values. The QSTR models are established using CORAL software by utilizing the target function (TF₂) with the index of ideality of correlation (IIC). A hybrid optimal descriptor computed from SMILES and molecular hydrogen-suppressed graphs (HSG) is employed to construct QSTR models. The results of various statistical parameters of the QSTR model developed for pEC₁₀ and pEC₅₀ range from excellent to good and are in line with the standard parameters. The models prepared with IIC for Split 3 are chosen as the best model for both endpoints (pEC₁₀ and pEC₅₀). The numerical value of the determination coefficient of the validation set of split 3 for the endpoint pEC₁₀ is 0.7849 and for the endpoint pEC₅₀, it is 0.8150. The structural fractions accountable for the toxicity of chemicals are also extracted. The hydrophilic attributes like 1…n…(… and S…(… Created by potrace 1.16, written by Peter Selinger 2001-2019 ]]> … exert positive contributions to controlling the aquatic toxicity and reducing algal toxicity, whereas attributes such as c…c…c…, C…C…C… enhance lipophilicity of the molecules and consequently enhance algal toxicity.

In the ecotoxicological risk assessment, acute toxicity is one of the most significant criteria.

CORAL: Monte Carlo based global QSAR modelling of Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors using hybrid descriptors

Global QSAR modelling was performed to predict the pIC₅₀ values of 233 diverse heterocyclic compounds as BTK inhibitors with the Monte Carlo algorithm of CORAL software using the DCW hybrid descriptors extracted from SMILES notations of molecules. The dataset of 233 BTK inhibitors was randomly split into training, invisible training, calibration and validation sets. The index of ideality of correlation was also applied to build and judge the predictability of the QSAR models. Eight global QSAR models based on the hybrid optimal descriptor using two target functions, i.e. TF₁ (W_IIC = 0) and TF₂ (W_IIC = 0.2) have been constructed. The statistical parameters of QSAR models computed by TF₂ are more reliable and robust and were used to predict the pIC₅₀ values. The model constructed for split 4 via TF₂ is regarded as the best model and the numerical values of r²_Train, r²_Valid, Q²_Train and Q²_Valid are equal to 0.7981, 0.7429, 0.7898 and 0.6784, respectively. By internal and external validation techniques, the predictability and reliability of the designed models have been assessed. The structural attributes responsible for the increase and decrease of pIC₅₀ of BTK inhibitors were also identified.

Quantitative structure-toxicity relationship models for predication of toxicity of ionic liquids towards Leukemia rat cell line IPC-81 based on index of ideality of correlation

The application of ion liquids (ILs) as green solvents has attracted the attention of the scientific community. However, ILs may play the role of toxins. Even though ionic liquids may assist to minimise air pollution, but their discharge into aquatic ecosystems might result in significant water pollution due to their potential toxicity and inaccessibility to biodegradation. Recently, more attention has been paid to the toxicity of ILs on plants, bacteria, and humans. Here, a quantitative structure-toxicity relationship study (QSTR) based on the Monte Carlo method of CORAL software has been applied to estimate the logarithm of the half-maximal effective concentration of toxicity of ILs against leukemia rat cell line IPC-81 (logEC₅₀). A hybrid optimal descriptor is used to build QSTR models for a large set of 304 diverse ILs including ammonium, imidazolium, morpholinium, phosphonium, piperidinium, pyridinium, pyrrolidinium, quinolinium, sulfonium, and protic ILs. The SMILES notations of Ils are utilized to compute the descriptor correlation weight (DCW). Four splits are made from the whole dataset and each split is randomly divided into four sets (training subsets and validation set). The index of ideality of correlation (IIC) is applied to evaluate the authenticity and robustness of the QSTR models. A QSTR model with statistical parameters R²=0.85, CCC =0.92, Q²=0.84, and MAE =0.25 for the validation set of the best split is considered as a prime model. The outliers and promoters of increase/decrease of logEC₅₀ are extracted and the mechanistic interpretation of effective descriptors for the model is also offered.HighlightsGlobal SMILES-based QSAR model was developed to predict the toxicity of ILs.The CORAL software is used to model the ILs toxicity on IPC-81 leukemia rat cell lineIIC is tested as a criterion of predictive potential.The toxicological effects of ILs are discussed based on the proposed model.

The Monte Carlo approach to model and predict the melting point of imidazolium ionic liquids using hybrid optimal descriptors

Ionic liquids (ILs) have captured intensive attention owing to their unique properties such as high thermal stability, negligible vapour pressure, high dissolution capacity and high ionic conductivity as well as their wide applications in various scientific fields including organic synthesis, catalysis, and industrial extraction processes. Many applications of ionic liquids (ILs) rely on the melting point (T_m). Therefore, in the present manuscript, the melting points of imidazolium ILs are studied employing a quantitative structure–property relationship (QSPR) approach to develop a model for predicting the melting points of a data set of imidazolium ILs. The Monte Carlo algorithm of CORAL software is applied to build up a robust QSPR model to calculate the values T_m of 353 imidazolium ILs. Using a combination of SMILES and hydrogen-suppressed molecular graphs (HSGs), the hybrid optimal descriptor is computed and used to generate the QSPR models. Internal and external validation parameters are also employed to evaluate the predictability and reliability of the QSPR model. Four splits are prepared from the dataset and each split is randomly distributed into four sets i.e. training set (≈33%), invisible training set (≈31%), calibration set (≈16%) and validation set (≈20%). In QSPR modelling, the numerical values of various statistical features of the validation sets such as R_Validation², Q_Validation², and IIC_Validation are found to be in the range of 0.7846–0.8535, 0.7687–0.8423 and 0.7424–0.8982, respectively. For mechanistic interpretation, the structural attributes which are responsible for the increase/decrease of T_m are also extracted.

The melting points of imidazolium ILs are studied employing a quantitative structure–property relationship (QSPR) approach to develop a model for predicting the melting points of a data set of imidazolium ILs.

Copper nanoparticle anchored biguanidine-modified Zr-UiO-66 MOFs: a competent heterogeneous and reusable nanocatalyst in Buchwald-Hartwig and Ullmann type coupling reactions

We have designed a functionalized metal-organic framework (MOF) of UiO topology as a support, with an extremely high surface area, adjustable pore sizes and stable crystalline coordination polymeric structure and implanted copper (Cu) nanoparticles thereon. The core three dimensional Zr-derived MOF (UiO-66-NH2) was modified with a biguanidine moiety following a covalent post-functionalization approach. The morphological and physicochemical features of the material were determined using analytical methods such as FT-IR, SEM, TEM, EDX, atomic mapping, XRD and ICP-OES. The SEM and XRD results justified the unaffected morphology of Zr-MOF after structural modifications. The as-synthesized UiO-66-biguanidine/Cu nanocomposite was catalytically explored in the aryl and heteroaryl Buchwald-Hartwig C-N and Ullmann type C-O cross coupling reactions with excellent yields. A library of biaryl amine and biaryl ethers was synthesized over the catalyst under mild and green conditions. Furthermore, the catalyst was isolated by centrifugation and recycled 11 times with no significant copper leaching or change in its activity.

Bio-inspired synthesis of palladium nanoparticles fabricated magnetic Fe3O4 nanocomposite over Fritillaria imperialis flower extract as an efficient recyclable catalyst for the reduction of nitroarenes

This current research is based on a bio-inspired procedure for the synthesis of biomolecule functionalized hybrid magnetic nanocomposite with the Fe3O4 NPs at core and Pd NPs at outer shell. The central idea was the initial modification of magnetic NP by the phytochemicals from Fritillaria imperialis flower extract, which was further exploited in the green reduction of Pd2+ ions into Pd NPs, in situ. The flower extract also acted as a capping agent for the obtained Pd/Fe3O4 composite without the need of additional toxic reagents. The as-synthesized Fe3O4@Fritillaria/Pd nanocomposite was methodically characterized over different physicochemical measures like FT-IR, ICP-AES, FESEM, EDX, TEM, XPS and VSM analysis. Thereafter, its catalytic potential was evaluated in the reduction of various nitrobenzenes to arylamines applying hydrazine hydrate as reductant in ethanol/water (1:2) medium under mild conditions. Furthermore, the nanocatalyst was retrieved using a bar magnet and recycled several times without considerable leaching or loss of activity. This green, bio-inspired ligand-free protocol has remarkable advantages like environmental friendliness, high yields, easy workup and reusability of the catalyst.

Comparison of Self-Expanding Bioprostheses for Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement in Patients With Symptomatic Severe Aortic Stenosis

Background:

Few randomized trials have compared bioprostheses for transcatheter aortic valve replacement, and no trials have compared bioprostheses with supra-annular design. The SCOPE 2 trial (Safety and Efficacy Comparison of Two TAVI Systems in a Prospective Randomized Evaluation 2) was designed to compare the clinical outcomes of the ACURATE neo and CoreValve Evolut bioprostheses for transcatheter aortic valve replacement.

Methods:

SCOPE 2 was a randomized trial performed at 23 centers in 6 countries between April 2017 and April 2019. Patients ≥75 years old with an indication for transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement as agreed by the heart team were randomly assigned to receive treatment with either the ACURATE neo (n=398) or the CoreValve Evolut bioprostheses (n=398). The primary end point, powered for noninferiority of the ACURATE neo bioprosthesis, was all-cause death or stroke at 1 year. The key secondary end point, powered for superiority of the ACURATE neo bioprosthesis, was new permanent pacemaker implantation at 30 days.

Results:

Among 796 randomized patients (mean age, 83.2±4.3 years; mean Society of Thoracic Surgeons Predicted Risk of Mortality score, 4.6±2.9%), clinical follow-up information was available for 778 (98%) patients. Within 1 year, the primary end point occurred in 15.8% of patients in the ACURATE neo group and in 13.9% of patients in the CoreValve Evolut group (absolute risk difference, 1.8%, upper 1-sided 95% confidence limit, 6.1%; P =0.0549 for noninferiority). The 30-day rates of new permanent pacemaker implantation were 10.5% in the ACURATE neo group and 18.0% in the CoreValve Evolut group (absolute risk difference, –7.5% [95% CI, –12.4 to –2.60]; P =0.0027). No significant differences were observed in the components of the primary end point. Cardiac death at 30 days (2.8% versus 0.8%; P =0.03) and 1 year (8.4% versus 3.9%; P =0.01), and moderate or severe aortic regurgitation at 30 days (10% versus 3%; P =0.002) were significantly increased in the ACURATE neo group.

Conclusions:

Transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement with the self-expanding ACURATE neo did not meet noninferiority compared with the self-expanding CoreValve Evolut in terms of all-cause death or stroke at 1 year, and it was associated with a lower incidence of new permanent pacemaker implantation. In secondary analyses, the ACURATE neo was associated with more moderate or severe aortic regurgitation at 30 days and cardiac death at 30 days and 1 year.

Registration:

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov ; Unique identifier: NCT03192813.

A Monte Carlo method based QSPR model for prediction of reaction rate constants of hydrated electrons with organic contaminants

The Monte Carlo algorithm was applied to formulate a robust quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) model to compute the reactions rate constants of hydrated electron values for a data set of 309 water contaminants containing 125 aliphatic and 184 phenyl-based chemicals. The QSPR models were computed with the hybrid optimal descriptors which were procured by combining the SMILES and hydrogen-suppressed molecular graph for both classes of compounds. Approximately 75% of the total experimental data set was randomly divided into training and invisible training sets, while approximately 25% was divided into calibration and validation sets. The authenticity and robustness of the developed QSPR models were also judged by the Index of Ideality of Correlation. In QSPR modelling of aliphatic compounds, the numerical values of r T r a i n i n g 2 , r V a l i d a t i o n 2 , Q T r a i n i n g 2 and Q V a l i d a t i o n 2 were in the range of 0.852-0.905, 0.815-0.894, 0.839-0.897 and 0.737-0.867, respectively. Whereas, in the QSPR modelling of phenyl-based compounds, the numerical values of r T r a i n i n g 2 , r V a l i d a t i o n 2 , Q T r a i n i n g 2 and Q V a l i d a t i o n 2 were in the range of 0.867-0.896, 0.852-0.865, 0.816-0.850 and 0.760-0.762, respectively. The structural attributes, which are promoters of l o g K e a q - increase/decrease are also extracted from the SMILES notation for mechanistic interpretation. These QSPR models can also be applied to compute the reaction rate constants of organic contaminants.

Interrelationship of physical exercise, perceptual discrimination and academic achievement variables in high school students

BACKGROUND

Many studies results suggest how can we improve the academic performance for our kids. The purposes of this study were to examine how physical activity could affect both academic achievement and fluid intelligence in adolescence.

STUDY DESIGN

We measured the three variables (physical, cognitive, academic) and try to find the correlations between them.

METHODS

A total of 167 adolescents (mean age = 16.34 years SD = 1.2) from Morocco are participating in this study. The cardiorespiratory fitness was measured with the20 m endurance shuttle-run test. We also assessed the Resistance capacity with 500m sprint test. The academic achievement was assessed by school grades. The fluid intelligence was assessed by using Raven's Standard Progressive Matrices. We examined the correlation between all variables.

RESULTS

This study indicates that the academic achievement was positively associated with the Fluid Intelligence and also with the Resistance Capacity and not with Cardiorespiratory Fitness (VO2peak).

CONCLUSIONS

We can conclude that the professionals and researchers in sports and education have to promote physical activity at the school age for a public health purpose.

Distinct pressure half-time values by transthoracic echocardiography for grading of paravalvular regurgitation after transcatheter aortic valve replacement

Postprocedural aortic regurgitation (AR) has negative impact on patient outcome after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Standard assessment of AR severity by echocardiography is hampered after TAVR. Measurement of pressure half-time (PHT) by echocardiography is not limited in these patients but it may be affected by concomitant left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). This study sought to evaluate distinct cut-off values of PHT differentiating between patients without and with more than mild LVH for grading of AR after TAVR with cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) as the reference method for comparison. 71 patients (age 81 ± 6 years) with severe aortic stenosis undergoing TAVR were included into the study. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and CMR were performed after TAVR. Left ventricular mass index was calculated by TTE. PHT was measured by continuous-wave Doppler echocardiography of aortic regurgitation jet. In 18 patients (25%) PHT could not be obtained due to no or very faint Doppler signal. Aortic regurgitant volume and regurgitant fraction were calculated by CMR by flow analysis of the ascending aorta. In 14 of 53 patients (26%) AR after TAVR was moderate or severe as categorized by CMR analysis. More than mild LVH was present in 27 of 53 patients (51%). PHT correlated inversely less to regurgitant fraction by CMR analysis in patients with LVH (r = −0.293; p = 0.138) than in patients without LVH (r = −0.455; p = 0.020). In patients without relevant LVH accuracy of PHT to predict moderate or severe paravalvular regurgitation AUC was 0.813 using a cut-off value of 347 ms and AUC was 0.729 in patients with more than mild LVH using a cut-off value of 420 ms. Analysis of PHT by TTE with distinct cut-off values for patients without and with more than mild LVH allows detection of moderate or severe AR after TAVR as defined by CMR. In none of the patients in which PHT could not be measured AR was categorized as more than trace by CMR analysis.

The flutter-by effect: a comprehensive study of the fluttering cusps of the Perceval heart valve prosthesis

OBJECTIVES

Sutureless aortic valve prostheses are gaining popularity due to the substantial reduction in cross-clamp time. In this study, we report our observations on the cusp-fluttering phenomenon of the Perceval bioprosthesis (LivaNova, London, UK) using a combination of technical and medical perspectives.

METHODS

Between August 2014 and December 2016, a total of 108 patients (69% women) with a mean age of 78 years had aortic valve replacement using the Perceval bioprosthesis (34 combined procedures). All patients underwent transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) intraoperatively. TOE was performed postoperatively to detect paravalvular leakage and to measure gradients, acceleration time, Doppler velocity indices (Vmax and LVOT/Vmax AV) and effective orifice area indices. In addition, a TOE examination was performed in 21 patients postoperatively. Data were collected retrospectively from our hospital database.

RESULTS

The retrospective evaluation of the intraoperative TOE examinations revealed consistent fluttering in all patients with the Perceval bioprosthesis. The echocardiographic postoperative measurements showed a mean effective orifice area index of 0.91 ± 0.12 cm2/m2. The overall mean pressure and peak pressure gradients were in a higher range (13.5 ± 5.1 mmHg and 25.5 ± 8.6 mmHg, respectively), whereas acceleration time (62.8 ± 16.4 ms) and Doppler velocity indices (0.43 ± 0.11) were within the normal range according to the American Society of Echocardiography or european association of echocardiography (EAE) guidelines. The 2-dimensional TOE in Motion Mode (M-Mode) that was performed in patients with elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels revealed remarkable fluttering of the cusps of the Perceval bioprosthesis.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study cohort, we observed the fluttering phenomenon in all patients who received the Perceval bioprosthesis, which was correlated with elevated LDH levels and higher pressure gradients.

Transcatheter aortic valve-in-valve implantation of a CoreValve in a JenaValve prosthesis: a case report

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation has become an accepted treatment modality for inoperable or high-risk surgical patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 70-year-old white man who was treated for severe symptomatic aortic regurgitation using transcatheter aortic valve implantation from the apical approach. Because of recurrent cardiac decompensation 4 weeks after implantation he underwent the implantation of a left ventricular assist device system. A year later echocardiography showed a severe transvalvular central insufficiency. Our heart team decided to choose a valve-in-valve approach while reducing the flow rate of left ventricular assist device to minimum and pacing with a frequency of 140 beats/minute. There was an excellent result and our patient is doing well with no relevant insufficiency of the aortic valve at 12-month follow-up.

Conclusion

This is the first report about a successful treatment of a stenotic JenaValve using a CoreValve Evolut R; the use of a CoreValve Evolut R prosthesis may be an optimal option for valve-in-valve procedures.

Mechanistic study of in vitro chemical interaction of trimipramine drug with barbituric derivative after its oxidation: Electrochemical synthesis of new dibenzazepine derivative

Electrochemical oxidation of trimipramine in the absence and presence of 1,3 dimethyl barbituric acid as a nucleophile in aqueous solution has been studied using cyclic voltammetry and controlled-potential coulometry electrolysis. Voltammetric studies of electro-oxidation of trimipramine were realized in a range of pH1.0 to 8.0 in the absence and presence of 1,3 dimethyl barbituric acid. Based on the obtained electrochemical results, dimerization is the main reaction of electro-oxidation of trimipramine in the absence of nucleophile. The voltammetric data indicate that the 1,3 dimethyl barbituric acid participation in Michael addition reaction with the oxidized dimeric form of trimipramine via an ECEC electrochemical mechanisms. On the other hand the results indicate existence of a catalytic (EC') electrochemical mechanism in parallel with ECEC electrochemical mechanism. This method provides a facile and one-pot procedure for the synthesis of new dibenzazepine derivative. Finally, a possible mechanism is proposed for the electrode process, on the basis of the present and previous investigations. The product has been characterized by IR, ¹H NMR, ¹³CNMR and MS methods.

Evaluation of aortic regurgitation after transcatheter aortic valve implantation: aortic root angiography in comparison to cardiac magnetic resonance

AIMS

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is common after transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI). Intraprocedural assessment of AR relies on aortic root angiography. Cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) phase-contrast mapping of the ascending aorta provides accurate AR quantification. This study evaluated the accuracy of AR grading by aortic root angiography after TAVI in comparison to CMR phase-contrast velocity mapping.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In 69 patients with TAVI for severe aortic stenosis, post-procedural AR was determined by aortic root angiography with visual assessment according to the Sellers classification and by CMR using phase-contrast velocity mapping for analysis of AR volume and fraction. Spearman's correlation coefficient showed a moderate correlation between angiographic analysis of AR grade and CMR-derived AR volume (r=0.41; p<0.01) as well as AR fraction (r=0.42; p<0.01). There was significant overlap between the angiographic Sellers classes compared to CMR-derived AR fractions. Aortic root angiography with cut-off Sellers grade ≥2 had a sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 98% to detect AR graded as moderate to severe or severe as defined by CMR.

CONCLUSIONS

There is only a moderate correlation between aortic root angiography and CMR in the classification of AR severity after TAVI. Alternative imaging including multimodality imaging as well as haemodynamic analysis should therefore be considered for intraprocedural AR assessment and guidance of TAVI procedure in cases of uncertainty in AR grading.

Psychometric properties of the Sexual Adjustment Questionnaire (SAQ) in the Iranian population with spinal cord injury

STUDY DESIGN

This is a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to examine the psychometric properties of the Sexual Adjustment Questionnaire (SAQ) for Iranian people with spinal cord injury.

SETTING

This study was conducted in the brain and Spinal Cord Injury Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

METHODS

We assessed the psychometric properties of the SAQ, with 200 participants (men=146, women=54) completing the scale. An evaluation of its test-retest reliability was performed over a 2-weeks period, on a subsample of 30 patients recruited from the overall group. Cronbach's α-coefficient was computed for assessment of internal consistency reliability. In addition, content and face validity were examined by an expert committee. Construct validity was assessed by examining convergent and discriminant validity. Finally, exploratory factor analysis was used to extract the factor structure of the questionnaire.

RESULTS

The Cronbach's α and intraclass correlation coefficient were 0.77 and 0.72 retrospectively. With regard to construct validity, there was a significant (P=0.009) negative correlation (r=-0.28) between the SAQ score and age. Those with lower levels of educations scored significantly lower on the SAQ (P=0.04). The exploratory factor analysis indicated a four-factor structure for the questionnaire, accounting for 68.9% of the observed variance. The expert committee approved the face and content validity of the developed measure.

CONCLUSION

The SAQ is a valid measure for assessing sexual adjustment in people with spinal cord injury. The evaluation of sexual well-being may be useful in clinical trials and practical settings.

Regional left ventricular function after transapical vs. transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation analysed by cardiac magnetic resonance feature tracking

AIMS

This study analysed the impact of transapical (TA) vs. transfemoral (TF) access site transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) on post-procedural regional left ventricular (LV) function using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) feature tracking (FT).

METHODS AND RESULTS

CMR was performed 3 months after TAVI on 44 consecutive patients with normal LV ejection fraction prior to TAVI. Twenty patients had TA-TAVI, and 24 had TF-TAVI. Standard cine imaging was performed in three standard cardiac long-axis views (two-, four- and three-chamber views). Myocardial peak systolic radial strain (PSRS) and peak systolic longitudinal strain (PSLS) were analysed based on CMR-FT considering 49 segments in each of the three views. There were no differences in PSRS and PSLS for the basal and mid-ventricular segments between TA- and TF-TAVI groups. In contrast, PSRS and PSLS of apical segments and apical cap were reduced in the TA- compared with the TF-TAVI group (PSRS: 15.7 ± 6.4 vs. 35.9 ± 15.7%, respectively, P < 0.001; PSLS: -8.9 ± 5.3 vs. -16.9 ± 4.3%, respectively, P < 0.001). Comparison of all non-apical segments vs. apical segments and apical cap demonstrated no difference in the TF group (PSRS: 34.6 ± 9.0 vs. 35.9 ± 15.7%; respectively, P = 0.702; PSLS: -17.8 ± 4.6 vs. -16.9 ± 4.3%; respectively, P = 0.802). After TA-TAVI, PSRS and PSLS of the apical segments were reduced compared with the non-apical segments (PSRS: 15.7 ± 6.4 vs. 33.5 ± 7.0%, respectively, P < 0.001; PSLS: -8.9 ± 5.3 vs. -15.5 ± 3.5%, respectively, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Apical LV function abnormalities can be detected at 3-month follow-up in all TA-TAVI patients using CMR-FT. TA-TAVI results in significant impairment of apical LV function compared with TF-TAVI.

Celiac disease and dysfunctional uterine bleeding; the efficiency of gluten free diet

The aim of this study was to investigate the relation between Celiac disease (CD) and unexplained dysfunctional uterine bleeding (DUB) in celiac women. The celiac patients were selected from women who were referred to celiac department. Controls were selected from those women without any signs of celiac disease and matched with age. Meanwhile, a trained physician was ready to explain the study, and then in case of their allowance, a questionnaire was completed by the physician. 24 % of celiac women reported a past history of at least one menstrual cycle disorder vs 10 % of controls reported these problems (p=0.038) and higher percentage of unexplained DUB has been observed in celiac women. All celiac patients were undertaking gluten free diet for at least 3 months and the celiac patients who reported the history of DUB were again interviewed for any signs of unexplained DUB. From 12 celiac women with DUB, 10 patients reported no more unexplained DUB after getting gluten-free diet (83.3 %). The occurrence of a significant correlation between CD and DUB suggests the possibility of considering CD as one of the potential causes of abnormal uterine bleeding. Therefore, celiac disease must be seriously considered in the screening of patients with reproductive disorders (Tab. 2,Ref. 23).

Electrogenerated base-promoted synthesis of 5-aryl-5,6-dihydro-2H-pyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidine-2,4,7-triones by multicomponent assembly of barbituric acid, aldehydes and Meldrum's acid at room temperature

An electrochemical strategy for the synthesis of pyrano[2,3-d]pyrimidine-2,4,7-triones via a one-pot, three component condensation is described.

Impact of aortic valve calcification severity and impaired left ventricular function on 3-year results of patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate clinical pre-interventional predictors of 3-year outcome and mortality in high-risk patients with severe aortic valve stenosis treated with transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI).

METHODS

Among 367 patients included in the Aachen TAVI registry, 76 patients with baseline dual-source computed tomography (DSCT) for the quantification of aortic valve calcification (AVC) and a 3-year follow-up were identified.

RESULTS

Survival at 30 days was 91 %, and it was 75 %, 66 % and 64 % at 1, 2 years and 3 years, respectively. Non-survivors at 3 years showed a significantly higher Agatston AVC score (2,854 ± 1,651) than survivors (1,854 ± 961, P = 0.007). Multivariate analysis including age, logistic EuroScore, glomerular filtration rate, Agatston AVC score, ejection fraction < 40 %, NYHA class, baseline medication, chronic lung disease and aortic regurgitation revealed that only the Agatston AVC score (P = 0.03) and impaired left ventricular function (P = 0.001) was significantly associated with mortality. Patients with Agatston AVC scores >2,000 had a significantly lower 3-year survival rate compared with patients with scores <2,000 (47 % vs 79 %, P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

In patients referred for TAVI, aortic valve calcification severity and impaired left ventricular function may serve as a predictor of long-term mortality. Therefore, AVC scores easily determined from pre-procedural CT datasets may be used for patient risk stratification.

Study of operated primary and secondary (recurrence) hydatidosis in hospitals of Kermanshah, west of Islamic Republic of Iran

Cystic echinococcosis, caused by the larval stage of Echinoccocus granulosus, is a global public health threat. The aim of this study was to determine the demographic and clinical characteristics of cases of primary and secondary hydatid cyst in the west of the Islamic Republic of Iran. A retrospective record review was made in 7 public and private hospitals in Kermanshah from 2004 to 2009. Of 526 files of suspected cases analysed, 291 cases of hydatid cyst had been operated upon and confirmed. Of the patients, 51.5% were females, 57.7% lived in urban and suburban areas and the largest age group (17.5%) was 31-40 years. The major organs involved were liver (64.9%) and lung (26.8%) and 18 cases (6.2%) were confirmed as secondary hydatidosis. Most patients (79.4%) had been treated with albendazole. Kermanshah province should be considered an endemic region for human hydatid cyst disease; greater efforts in prevention are needed.

Lipoid Proteinosis in two Iranian Sisters: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Lipoid proteinosis is a rare autosomal recessive disorder which may be seen within a family very occasionally. Herein, we report lipoid proteinosis in two sisters characterized by verrucous lesions and hoarseness of voice, dysphagia and multiple beaded papules along the margins of their eyelids, fissured lips and thick ferenulum.