bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective Formation of Monoacylated Diols through a Mild Passerini Reaction
Authors: Wu Dan , Li Jun , Wang Wei
Published: April 2018

The synthesis of both regioisomers of monoacylated diols has been achieved in one simple step using a Passerini reaction. We examined various substrates and reaction conditions, and the results show that the regioselectivity of the reaction is governed by a choice between five‐ and six‐membered‐ring transition states, and by different rates of acyl migration under different reaction conditions.
Speciation analysis of mercury by dispersive solid‐phase extraction coupled with capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Li Jinhua , Liu Junying , Lu Wenhui , Gao Fangfang , Wang Liyan , Ma Jiping , Liu Huitao , Liao Chunyang , Chen Lingxin
Published: April 2018

A pretreatment method of dispersive solid‐phase extraction (DSPE) along with back‐extraction followed by CE‐UV detector was developed for the determination of mercury species in water samples. Sulfhydryl‐functionalized SiO2 microspheres (SiO2−SH) were synthesized and used as DSPE adsorbents for selective extraction and enrichment of three organic mercury species namely ethylmercury (EtHg), methylmercury (MeHg), and phenylmercury (PhHg), along with L‐cysteine (L‐cys) containing hydrochloric acid as back‐extraction solvent. Several main extraction parameters were systematically investigated including sample pH, amount of adsorbent, extraction and back‐extraction time, volume of eluent, and concentration of hydrochloric acid. Under optimal conditions, good linearity was achieved with correlation coefficients over 0.9990, in the range of 4−200 μg/L for EtHg, and 2−200 μg/L for MeHg and PhHg. The LODs were obtained of 1.07, 0.34, and 0.24 μg/L for EtHg, MeHg, and PhHg, respectively, as well as the LOQs were 3.57, 1.13, and 0.79 μg/L, respectively, with enrichment factors ranging from 109 to 184. Recoveries were attained with tap and lake water samples in a range of 62.3−107.2%, with relative standard deviations of 3.5–10.1%. The results proved that the method of SiO2−SH based DSPE coupled with CE‐UV was a simple, rapid, cost‐effective, and eco‐friendly alternative for the determination of mercury species in water samples.
Platform for monitoring and analysis of air quality in environments with large circulation of people
Authors: Soares Paulo H. , Monteiro Johny P. , Freitas Haniel F. , Zenko Sakiyama Rubens , Andrade Cid M.
Published: April 2018

Due to the numerous problems raised by the increase in the emission of pollutant gases in the atmosphere, it has become essential a more effective monitoring of air quality. With that, several studies published in recent years have shown a series of mechanisms and techniques with ability to monitor air quality in a variety of ways. Approaching it, this work proposes a platform formed by a wireless sensor network, with the ability to monitor the levels of pollution at several points simultaneously. In addition, was implement the data mining tool, where by means of algorithms classification based on artificial intelligence concepts, it is possible that a more advanced analysis of air quality is performed. The platform was used for the monitoring of two public places, which have large traffic of vehicles and people daily, for a period of 12 consecutive weeks. On weekdays, peaks of 703 ppm of CO2 concentration were measured between 06:00 and 07:00 pm by the sensors located near the highways or avenues with higher traffic of cars. Conversely, indices around 500 ppm were the lowest obtained near 6:00 am where the car traffic is very low. This is the best time for hiking. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 37: 1901–1907, 2018
Novel in silico multivariate mapping of intrinsic and anticorrelated connectivity to neurocognitive functional maps supports the maturational hypothesis of ADHD
Authors: de Lacy Nina , Kodish Ian , Rachakonda Srinivas , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: April 2018

From childhood to adolescence, strengthened coupling in frontal, striatal and parieto‐temporal regions associated with cognitive control, and increased anticorrelation between task‐positive and task‐negative circuits, subserve the reshaping of behavior. ADHD is a common condition peaking in adolescence and regressing in adulthood, with a wide variety of cognitive control deficits. Alternate hypotheses of ADHD emphasize lagging circuitry refinement versus categorical differences in network function. However, quantifying the individual circuit contributions to behavioral findings, and relative roles of maturational versus categorical effects, is challenging in vivo or in meta‐analyses using task‐based paradigms within the same pipeline, given the multiplicity of neurobehavioral functions implicated. To address this, we analyzed 46 positively‐correlated and anticorrelated circuits in a multivariate model in resting‐state data from 504 age‐ and gender‐matched youth, and created a novel in silico method to map individual quantified effects to reverse inference maps of 8 neurocognitive functions consistently implicated in ADHD, as well as dopamine and hyperactivity. We identified only age‐ and gender‐related effects in intrinsic connectivity, and found that maturational refinement of circuits in youth with ADHD occupied 3‐10x more brain locations than in typical development, with the footprint, effect size and contribution of individual circuits varying substantially. Our analysis supports the maturational hypothesis of ADHD, suggesting lagging connectivity reorganization within specific subnetworks of fronto‐parietal control, ventral attention, cingulo‐opercular, temporo‐limbic and cerebellar sub‐networks contribute across neurocognitive findings present in this complex condition. We present the first analysis of anti‐correlated connectivity in ADHD and suggest new directions for exploring residual and non‐responsive symptoms.
Reirradiation of head and neck cancer using modern highly conformal techniques
Authors: Ho Jennifer C. , Phan Jack
Published: April 2018

Locoregional disease recurrence or development of a second primary cancer after definitive radiotherapy for head and neck cancers remains a treatment challenge. Reirradiation utilizing traditional techniques has been limited by concern for serious toxicity. With the advent of newer, more precise radiotherapy techniques, such as intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), proton radiotherapy, and stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT), there has been renewed interest in curative‐intent head and neck reirradiation. However, as most studies were retrospective, single‐institutional experiences, the optimal modality is not clear. We provide a comprehensive review of the outcomes of relevant studies using these 3 head and neck reirradiation techniques, followed by an analysis and comparison of the toxicity, tumor control, concurrent systemic therapy, and prognostic factors. Overall, there is evidence that IMRT, proton therapy, and SBRT reirradiation are feasible treatment options that offer a chance for durable local control and survival. Prospective studies, particularly randomized trials, are needed.
Image‐guided chemical and thermal ablations for thyroid disease: Review of efficacy and complications
Authors: Nixon Iain J. , Angelos Peter , Shaha Ashok R. , Rinaldo Alessandra , Williams Michelle D. , Ferlito Alfio
Published: April 2018

Image‐guided ablation of thyroid disease is increasingly being commonly reported. Techniques including ethanol injection and thermal ablation using radio‐frequency, laser, and microwave devices have been described. Minimally invasive approaches to the management of benign cystic, solid, and functional thyroid nodules as well as both primary and recurrent thyroid malignancy have been reported. The purpose of this article is to review the current evidence relating to image‐guided ablation of thyroid disease with a focus on clinical outcomes and complication rates for patients treated with this minimally invasive approach.
Critical Global Literacies: A New Instructional Framework in the Global Era
Authors: Yoon Bogum , Yol Özge , Haag Claudia , Simpson Anne
Published: April 2018

In this global era, the importance of promoting global and cross‐cultural perspectives is receiving more attention in the field of literacy education. A specific instructional framework that teachers can use across the curriculum is crucial for adolescents’ literacy learning and life. However, the details on how to promote these perspectives to enact adolescents’ agency as critically conscious global citizens are severely lacking. This article responds to the gap by providing diverse instructional classroom examples guided by a newly developed instructional framework of critical global literacies. The authors aim to move literacy education toward global literacy education with a critical lens in this dynamic interconnected society.
Delivering alternative reinforcement in a distinct context reduces its counter‐therapeutic effects on relapse
Authors: Craig Andrew R. , Cunningham Paul J. , Sweeney Mary M. , Shahan Timothy A. , Nevin John A.
Published: April 2018

Delivery of alternative reinforcers in the presence of stimuli previously associated with reinforcement for target behavior increases the susceptibility of target behavior to relapse. To explore contingencies that might mitigate this counter‐therapeutic effect, we trained pigeons on a procedure that entailed extinction of previously reinforced target‐key pecking, access to a distinct stimulus context contingently on refraining from target behavior (differential‐reinforcement‐of‐other‐behavior; DRO), and reinforcement of alternative‐key pecks (differential‐reinforcement of alternative behavior; DRA) in that context. This DRO‐DRA treatment was compared with standard DRA in successive conditions, counterbalanced across pigeons. Target behavior extinguished more rapidly in the Standard‐DRA condition. When alternative reinforcement was discontinued, however, there was less resurgence after DRO‐DRA than after Standard DRA. In a third condition, the DRO contingency was suspended so that the former DRA stimuli were not presented (DRO‐NAC), and resurgence was greater than in the Standard‐DRA and DRO‐DRA conditions. Reinstatement produced by response‐independent reinforcers was small and similar across conditions. Subsequent reacquisition of target‐key pecking under baseline reinforcement conditions was faster following DRO‐NAC than Standard‐DRA or DRO‐DRA. These findings suggest that DRO‐DRA might serve as a useful method in clinical settings for reducing problem behavior while minimizing the threat of posttreatment relapse.
Task‐specific Ionic Liquid Mediated Eco‐compatible Approach for the Synthesis of Spirooxindole Derivatives and Their DNA Cleavage Activity
Authors: Dandia Anshu , Jain Anuj K. , Sharma Sonam , Singh Ruby
Published: April 2018

Guanidine‐based task‐specific ionic liquid 1,1,3,3‐tetramethylguanidine acetate [TMG][Ac]was found to be a very effective solvent for the synthesis of pharmaceutically important spirooxindole derivatives through one‐pot multicomponent reaction of substituted isatin, thiazolidine‐4‐carboxylic acid and naphthoquinone followed by the spontaneous dehydrogenation in excellent yields without using any reagent and catalyst. The TMG‐based ionic liquid could be recovered and used at least four times without considerable reduction in its activity. The advantageous features of the developed synthetic protocol are high atom economy, operational simplicity, shorter reaction time, easily handling, and environmentally benign. The structure and relative stereochemistry of final products was established by single crystal X‐ray structure and spectroscopic techniques. The synthesized compounds were subjected for DNA cleavage activity.
Reliability of neurometabolite detection with two‐dimensional localized correlation spectroscopy at 3T
Authors: Arm Jameen , Al‐iedani Oun , Quadrelli Scott , Ribbons Karen , Lea Rod , Lechner‐Scott Jeannette , Ramadan Saadallah
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

Two‐dimensional localized correlational spectroscopy (2D L‐COSY) has been applied in vivo to investigate metabolic profiles in many disorders due to its ability to detect several metabolites simultaneously. Successful application of this technique depends on the reliability of the detection and understanding of the variability result from test–retest measurements.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the test–retest repeatability/reliability of 2D L‐COSY in detecting brain metabolites in a phantom and healthy subjects in a 3T scanner.

STUDY TYPE

Test–retest. POPULATION/PHANTOM: Six healthy subjects and magnetic resonance spectroscopy–high definition (MRS‐HD) sphere or “Braino”.

FIELD STRENGTH/SEQUENCE

3T/2D L‐COSY MRS.

ASSESSMENT

Healthy subjects underwent eight weekly experiments over a period of 3 months with an intersession delay of 1 month after the first four measurements. Twenty‐nine neurometabolite resonances (8 diagonal, 14 cross, and 7 composite resonances) were studied using a 27 cm3 voxel from the posterior cingulate cortex. In vitro evaluations were performed in a similar manner as in vivo on a Braino phantom containing brain metabolites at physiological concentrations and pH.

STATISTICAL TESTS

Intra‐ and intersubject variability were measured. Test–retest repeatability was calculated using coefficient of variation (CV), and reliability was assessed with standard error measurement (SEM) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), using SPSS software.

RESULTS

The intra/inter CV for in vitro and in vivo data ranged from 0.01–0.23%/0.02–0.29% and 0.03–0.23%/0.04–0.39%, respectively. The major diagonal peaks showed ICC ranging from 0.31 to 0.93, while the ICC for cross peaks were 0.09–0.87. The SEM for in vivo data ranged from 0.0016 to 0.08. The interweek interval may have a positive effect on metabolite ratios (P = 0.08; F = 1.78).

DATA CONCLUSION

The low variability in metabolite concentration in this study shows a high level of reliability of 2D L‐COSY in the human brain.

Level of Evidence: 2

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2018;48:1559–1569
Posterior Wall Punctures Between Long‐ and Short‐Axis Techniques in a Phantom Intravenous Model
Authors: Davda Darien , Schrift David
Published: April 2018

Objectives

To determine whether a long‐axis, in‐plane approach to ultrasound‐guided vascular access produces fewer posterior wall punctures than a short‐axis, out‐of‐plane approach when attempted by novices without prior ultrasound‐guided procedural experience.

Methods

Participants were randomized to perform either technique on a ballistic gel–based phantom in a randomized controlled trial. They were then crossed over to repeat the experiment using the alternative approach. The primary outcome was posterior wall puncture occurrences. Secondary outcomes included cannulation success, the time to cannulation, and provider preferences. These were formulated before data collection.

Results

Forty participants completed the study. There were 6 posterior wall punctures in the short‐axis, out‐of‐plane approach (15%) and 1 in the long‐axis, in‐plane approach (2.5%). A posterior wall puncture was less likely to occur when the long‐axis approach was used (odds ratio, 0.15; 95% confidence interval, 0.02–0.91). There was no statistical difference in rates of successful cannulation and the time to cannulation. Eighty percent preferred the long‐axis approach, whereas 85% stated that the long‐axis approach provided better visualization of the needle tip throughout the procedure.

Conclusions

The long‐axis, in‐plane approach compared to the short‐axis, out‐of‐plane approach for ultrasound‐guided cannulation on a phantom resulted in fewer posterior wall punctures, better needle tip visibility, and higher preference among novices.
Sediment respiration drives circulation and production of CO2 in ice‐covered Alaskan arctic lakes
Authors: MacIntyre Sally , Cortés Alicia , Sadro Steven
Published: April 2018

The goals of our study were to (1) quantify production of CO2 during winter ice‐cover in arctic lakes, (2) develop methodologies which would enable prediction of CO2 production from readily measured variables, and (3) improve understanding of under‐ice circulation as it influences the distribution of dissolved gases under the ice. To that end, we combined in situ measurements with profile data. CO2 production averaged 20 mg C m−2 d−1 in a 3 m deep lake and ∼ 45 mg C m−2 d−1 in four larger lakes, similar to experimental observations at temperatures below 4°C. CO2 production was predicted by the initial rate of loss of oxygen near the sediments at ice‐on and by the full water column loss of oxygen throughout the winter. The time series data also showed the lake‐size and time dependent contribution of sediment respiration to under‐ice circulation and the decreased near‐bottom flows enabling anoxia and CH4 accumulation.
Customer satisfaction in Asia
Authors: Yi Youjae , Nataraajan Rajan
Published: April 2018

Customer satisfaction is a key concept in modern marketing thought and practice, which emphasizes delivering satisfaction to customers and obtaining profits in return. Given the rapid growth of the markets in Asia, it is increasingly important to examine the applicability of customer satisfaction models and theories in Asian countries that have different economic and cultural characteristics compared to Western countries. This special issue thus brings together researchers from various disciplines interested in advancing customer satisfaction research in Asia. Brief descriptions of each of the seven articles featured in this issue are furnished. Collectively, these articles provide useful insights for those who wish to understand key factors for successful customer satisfaction management in Asia.
Profiles of Streptococcus thermophilus MN‐ZLW‐002 nutrient requirements in controlled pH batch fermentations
Authors: Liu Gefei , Qiao Yali , Zhang Yanjiao , Leng Cong , Sun Jiahui , Chen Hongyu , Zhang Yan , Li Aili , Feng Zhen
Published: April 2018

This study aimed to evaluate the profiles of Streptococcus thermophilus nutrient requirements to guide the design of media for high cell density culturing. The growth kinetics, physiological state, and nutrient requirement profiles of S. thermophilus were analyzed in chemically defined media. The results showed that the intracellular ATP concentration, H+‐ATPase activity, NADH/NAD+, and NH3 concentrations varied with intracellular pH. The nutrient components with the highest amounts required were Leu and Asp; ascorbic acid and p‐amino benzoic acid; K+ and PO43−; and guanine and uracil. The nutrient components with the largest required ratios were Arg, His, and Met; folic acid, cyanocobalamine, biotin, and nicotinic acid; Ca2+ and Mg2+; and guanine and uracil. In this study, different nutrient components were primarily used at different phase. Trp, Tyr, calcium pantothenate, thiamine, guanine, and Mg2+ were mainly used from late‐lag to midexponential phase. Met, Pro, Phe, Ala, Gly, nicotinic acid, and riboflavin were mainly used from midexponential to late‐exponential phase. The highest bioavailabilities of nutrient components were also found at diverse phase. Met, Leu, Ile, Asn, Glu, Lys, Pro, Gly, riboflavin, nicotinic acid, adenine, uracil, inosine, and Ca2+ had the highest bioavailability from late‐lag to midexponential phase. Lactose, Glu, Asp, His, Trp, Cys, Val, Arg, Phe, Ala, Ser, Thr, Tyr, folate and cobalamin, calcium pantothenate, ascorbic acid, thiamine, biotin, p‐amino benzoic acid, vitamin B6, K+, Mg2+, guanine, xanthine, and PO43− had the highest bioavailability from midexponential to late‐exponential phase. This study elucidated the nutrient requirement profiles with culture time and biomass at various average growth rates during the growth of S. thermophilus. The present results will help to formulate complex media for high cell density cultivation and provide the theoretical basis for S. thermophilus feeding strategies.
A novel tricarbonylmethane agent (CMC2.24) reduces human pancreatic tumor growth in mice by targeting Ras
Authors: Mallangada Naveen A. , Vargas Joselin M. , Thomas Swaroopa , DiGiovanni Matthew G. , Vaeth Brandon M. , Nemesure Matthew D. , Wang Ruixue , LaComb Joseph F. , Williams Jennie L. , Golub Lorne M. , Johnson Francis , Mackenzie Gerardo G.
Published: April 2018

Pancreatic Cancer (PC) is a deadly disease in need of new therapeutic options. We recently developed a novel tricarbonylmethane agent (CMC2.24) as a therapeutic agent for PC, and evaluated its efficacy in preclinical models of PC. CMC2.24 inhibited the growth of various human PC cell lines in a concentration and time‐dependent manner. Normal human pancreatic epithelial cells were resistant to CMC2.24, indicating selectivity. CMC2.24 reduced the growth of subcutaneous and orthotopic PC xenografts in mice by up to 65% (P < 0.02), and the growth of a human patient‐derived tumor xenograft by 47.5% (P < 0.03 vs vehicle control). Mechanistically, CMC2.24 inhibited the Ras‐RAF‐MEK‐ERK pathway. Based on Ras Pull‐Down Assays, CMC2.24 inhibited Ras‐GTP, the active form of Ras, in MIA PaCa‐2 cells and in pancreatic acinar explants isolated from Kras mutant mice, by 90.3% and 89.1%, respectively (P < 0.01, for both). The inhibition of active Ras led to an inhibition of c‐RAF, MEK, and ERK phosphorylation by 93%, 91%, and 87%, respectively (P < 0.02, for all) in PC xenografts. Furthermore, c‐RAF overexpression partially rescued MIA PaCa‐2 cells from the cell growth inhibition by CMC2.24. In addition, downstream of ERK, CMC2.24 inhibited STAT3 phosphorylation levels at the serine 727 residue, enhanced the levels of superoxide anion in mitochondria, and induced intrinsic apoptosis as shown by the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria to the cytosol and the further cleavage of caspase 9 in PC cells. In conclusion, CMC2.24, a potential Ras inhibitor, is an efficacious agent for PC treatment in preclinical models, deserving further evaluation.
Dietary Composition and Trophic Niche Partitioning of Spotty-bellied Greenlings Hexagrammos agrammus, Fat Greenlings H. otakii, Korean Rockfish Sebastes schlegelii, and Japanese Seaperch Lateolabrax japonicus in the Yellow Sea Revealed by Stomach Content Analysis and Stable Isotope Analysis
Authors: Zhang Yingqiu , Xu Qiang , Xu Qinzeng , Alós Josep , Zhang Hongye , Yang Hongsheng
Published: April 2018

Stable nitrogen and carbon isotope ratios of fish tissues, in combination with stomach content analysis, provide insights into how energy flows through marine food webs. Using these techniques, we investigated the diets and trophic niches of four important fish species of the Yellow Sea: the Spotty-bellied Greenling Hexagrammos agrammus, Fat Greenling H. otakii, Korean Rockfish Sebastes schlegelii, and Japanese Seaperch Lateolabrax japonicus. The stomach content analysis revealed that Spotty-bellied Greenlings mainly fed on crabs and fish; Fat Greenlings mainly preyed on fish, crabs, and shrimps; Korean Rockfish primarily consumed fish and shrimps; and Japanese Seaperch mainly fed on fish. Korean Rockfish had the highest dietary breadth index among the four fish species. Dietary composition of the four species did not overlap significantly, as indicated by Schoener's index. Prey category composition varied across fish species and differed between species pairs (except Korean Rockfish and Japanese Seaperch), as suggested by permutational ANOVA tests. The stable isotope analysis suggested that Japanese Seaperch had significantly higher δ13C and δ15N and had a significantly different centroid position, both of which indicated a higher trophic position. The corrected standard ellipse area on the δ15N–δ13C (‰) biplot varied in size among species and significantly overlapped in the three rockfishes, with the largest overlap area observed between Fat Greenlings and Korean Rockfish. The results, in general, suggested that the three rockfish species, especially Korean Rockfish and Fat Greenlings, had similar trophic niches, but they were partitioned by prey resources according to the stomach content composition. Our study provides novel insights into the dietary niches and trophic dynamics of these four exploited species, which could help to improve ecosystem-based fisheries management in the Yellow Sea.
White matter degeneration profile in the cognitive cortico‐subcortical tracts in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hanganu Alexandru , Houde Jean‐Christophe , Fonov Vladimir S. , Degroot Clotilde , Mejia‐Constain Beatriz , Lafontaine Anne‐Louise , Soland Valérie , Chouinard Sylvain , Collins Louis D. , Descoteaux Maxime , Monchi Oury
Published: April 2018

Background:In Parkinson's disease cognitive impairment is an early nonmotor feature, but it is still unclear why some patients are able to maintain their cognitive performance at normal levels, as quantified by neuropsychological tests, whereas others cannot. The objectives of this study were to perform a cross‐sectional study and analyze the white matter changes in the cognitive and motor bundles in patients with Parkinson's disease.

Methods: Sixteen Parkinson's disease patients with normal cognitive performance, 19 with mild cognitive impairment (based on their performance of 1.5 standard deviations below the healthy population mean), and 16 healthy controls were compared with respect to their tractography patterns between the cortical cognitive / motor regions and subcortical structures, using high angular resolution diffusion imaging and constrained spherical deconvolution computation.

Results: Motor bundles showed decreased apparent fiber density in both PD groups, associated with a significant increase in diffusivity metrics, number of reconstructed streamlines, and track volumes, compared with healthy controls. By contrast, in the cognitive bundles, decreased fiber density in both Parkinson's groups was compounded by the absence of changes in diffusivity in patients with normal cognition, whereas patients with cognitive impairment had increased diffusivity metrics, lower numbers of reconstructed streamlines, and lower track volumes.

Conclusions: Both PD groups showed similar patterns of white matter neurodegeneration in the motor bundles, whereas cognitive bundles showed a distinct pattern: Parkinson's patients with normal cognition had white matter diffusivity metrics similar to healthy controls, whereas in patients with cognitive impairment white matter showed a neurodegeneration pattern. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Relationships between self‐reported sleep quality components and cognitive functioning in breast cancer survivors up to 10 years following chemotherapy
Authors: Henneghan Ashley M. , Carter Patricia , Stuifbergan Alexa , Parmelee Brennan , Kesler Shelli
Published: April 2018

Objective

Links have been made between aspects of sleep quality and cognitive function in breast cancer survivors (BCS), but findings are heterogeneous. The objective of this study is to examine relationships between specific sleep quality components (latency, duration, efficiency, daytime sleepiness, sleep disturbance, use of sleep aids) and cognitive impairment (performance and perceived), and determine which sleep quality components are the most significant contributors to cognitive impairments in BCS 6 months to 10 years post chemotherapy.

Methods

Women 21 to 65 years old with a history of non‐metastatic breast cancer following chemotherapy completion were recruited. Data collection included surveys to evaluate sleep quality and perceived cognitive impairments, and neuropsychological testing to evaluate verbal fluency and memory. Descriptive statistics, bivariate correlations, and hierarchical multiple regression were calculated.

Results

Ninety women (mean age 49) completed data collection. Moderate significant correlations were found between daytime dysfunction, sleep efficiency, sleep latency, and sleep disturbance and perceived cognitive impairment (Rs = −0.37 to −0.49, Ps < .00049), but not objective cognitive performance of verbal fluency, memory, or attention. After accounting for individual and clinical characteristics, the strongest predictors of perceived cognitive impairments were daytime dysfunction, sleep efficiency, and sleep disturbance.

Conclusions

Findings support links between sleep quality and perceived cognitive impairments in BCS and suggest specific components of sleep quality (daytime dysfunction, sleep efficiency, and sleep disturbance) are associated with perceived cognitive functioning in this population. Findings can assist clinicians in guiding survivors to manage sleep and cognitive problems and aid in the design of interventional research.
Monitoring the coastal zone using earth observation: application of linear spectral unmixing to coastal dune systems in Wales
Authors: Ettritch Georgina , Bunting Peter , Jones Gwawr , Hardy Andy
Published: April 2018

Coastal sand dune systems across temperate Europe are presently characterized by a high level of ecological stabilization and a subsequent loss of biological diversity. The use of continuous monitoring within these systems is vital to the preservation of species richness, particularly with regard to the persistence of early stage pioneer species dependent on a strong sediment supply. Linear spectral unmixing was applied to archived Landsat data (1975–2014) and historical aerial photography (1941–1962) for monitoring bare sand (BS) cover dynamics as a proxy for ecological dune stabilization. Using this approach, a time series of change was calculated for Kenfig Burrows, a 6‐km2 stabilized dune system in South Wales, during 1941–2014. The time series indicated that a rapid level of stabilization had occurred within the study area over a period of 75 years. Accuracy assessment of the data indicated the suitability of medium‐resolution imagery with an RMSE of <10% across all images and a difference of <3% between observed and predicted BS area. Temporal resolution was found to be a significant factor in the representation of BS cover with fluctuations occurring on a sub‐decadal scale, outside of the margin of error introduced through the use of medium‐resolution Landsat imagery. This study demonstrates a tractable approach for mapping and monitoring ecologically sensitive regions at a sub‐Landsat pixel level.
3D Networks of CoFePi with Hierarchical Porosity for Effective OER Electrocatalysis
Authors: Zhou Yao , Zeng Hua Chun
Published: April 2018

A series of amorphous 3D Co‐based phosphate networks with hierarchical porosity, including the CoPi, the binary CoM1Pi and the trinary CoM1M2Pi (Mi = NiII, FeIII, CeIII) are produced via a novel bitemplate coprecipitation approach at room temperature. Interestingly, the integration of FeIII and CoII in the same network is found to significantly influence both the porosity and the electronic state of CoII. The CoFePi with a FeIII to CoII mole ratio of 0.91 has a specific surface area of 170 m2 g−1 and average pore size of 12.3 nm, larger than those of the CoPi network; furthermore, the CoII within such CoFePi exhibits a higher oxidation state than that in the CoPi. Due to such structural and compositional merits, the binary CoFePi network shows superior oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalytic activity, which gives an overpotential as low as 0.315 V at 10 mA cm−2 and a Tafel slope of 33 mV dec−1 in 0.10 m KOH. Additionally, the trinary CoFeNiPi demonstrates similar OER catalytic performance. The two phosphate networks also exhibit remarkable catalytic stability. In view of their easy preparation, superior activity, high stability, and low cost, such transition metal phosphate networks are promising catalysts for practical OER processes.
Microfluidic Mass Production of Stabilized and Stealthy Liquid Metal Nanoparticles
Authors: Tang Shi‐Yang , Qiao Ruirui , Yan Sheng , Yuan Dan , Zhao Qianbin , Yun Guolin , Davis Thomas P. , Li Weihua
Published: April 2018

Functional nanoparticles comprised of liquid metals, such as eutectic gallium indium (EGaIn) and Galinstan, present exciting opportunities in the fields of flexible electronics, sensors, catalysts, and drug delivery systems. Methods used currently for producing liquid metal nanoparticles have significant disadvantages as they rely on both bulky and expensive high‐power sonication probe systems, and also generally require the use of small molecules bearing thiol groups to stabilize the nanoparticles. Herein, an innovative microfluidics‐enabled platform is described as an inexpensive, easily accessible method for the on‐chip mass production of EGaIn nanoparticles with tunable size distributions in an aqueous medium. A novel nanoparticle‐stabilization approach is reported using brushed polyethylene glycol chains with trithiocarbonate end‐groups negating the requirements for thiol additives while imparting a “stealth” surface layer. Furthermore, a surface modification of the nanoparticles is demonstrated using galvanic replacement and conjugation with antibodies. It is envisioned that the demonstrated microfluidic technique can be used as an economic and versatile platform for the rapid production of liquid metal‐based nanoparticles for a range of biomedical applications.
Type‐I Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Lateral Homojunctions: Layer Thickness and External Electric Field Effects
Authors: Xia Congxin , Xiong Wenqi , Du Juan , Wang Tianxing , Peng Yuting , Wei Zhongming , Li Jingbo , Jia Yu
Published: April 2018

Transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) heterostructures have been widely explored due to the formation of type‐II band alignment and interlayer exciton. However, the studies of type‐I TMD heterostructures are still lacking, which limit their applications in luminescence devices. Here, the 1L/nL MX2 (n = 2, 3, 4; M = Mo, W; X = S, Se) lateral homojunction based on the layer‐dependent band gaps of TMD nanosheets is theoretically simulated. The studies show that the TMD homojunction presents with high thermal stability and type‐I band alignment. The band offset and quantum confinement of carriers can be easily tuned by controlling the thickness of the multilayer region. Moreover, the electric field can decrease the band gaps of 1L/3L and 1L/4L homojunctions linearly. Interestingly, for the 1L/2L MX2 homojunction, the gap value is robust to the weak electric field, while it drops sharply under a strong electric field. This study sheds light on the physical pictures in the TMD lateral homojunction, and provides a practicable and general approach to engineer a type‐I homojunction based 2D semiconductor materials.
How Autistic Traits, Inattention and Hyperactivity-Impulsivity Symptoms Influence Depression in Nonclinical Undergraduate Students? Mediating Role of Depressive Rumination
Authors: Horibe Koji , Hasegawa Akira
Published: April 2018

A few studies have indicated that adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) are more inclined to ruminate than adults in the general population. The present study examined whether subclinical ASD symptoms including difficulties in social interaction and attention to detail and ADHD symptoms that were composed of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity were related to depressive rumination in undergraduate students. This study also examined whether rumination is a mediating factor in the relationship of ASD and ADHD symptoms with depression. Non-clinical undergraduate students (N = 294) in Japan completed the Autism-Spectrum Quotient, Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale, interpersonal conflict subscale of the Interpersonal Stress Event Scale, Ruminative Responses Scale, and Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition. Structural equation modeling indicated that hyperactivity-impulsivity was positively associated with rumination both directly and indirectly via interpersonal conflict, and that attention to detail and inattention were directly and positively related to rumination. The significant relationship between difficulties in social interaction and rumination disappeared after controlling for the influence of depression. These findings indicated that one pathway through which hyperactivity-impulsivity symptoms prolong rumination might be through the increase in interpersonal conflict. In addition, it is possible that cognitive inflexibility, academic difficulties, and adverse driving outcomes caused by attention to detail, inattention as well as hyperactivity-impulsivity may lead to rumination. Moreover, attention to detail, inattention, and hyperactivity-impulsivity indirectly increased depression via rumination, indicating that rumination is an important mediator in the relationship of subclinical ASD and ADHD symptoms with depression.
Computational solvation analysis of biomolecules in aqueous ionic liquid mixtures
Authors: Zeindlhofer Veronika , Schröder Christian
Published: April 2018

Based on their tunable properties, ionic liquids attracted significant interest to replace conventional, organic solvents in biomolecular applications. Following a Gartner cycle, the expectations on this new class of solvents dropped after the initial hype due to the high viscosity, hydrolysis, and toxicity problems as well as their high cost. Since not all possible combinations of cations and anions can be tested experimentally, fundamental knowledge on the interaction of the ionic liquid ions with water and with biomolecules is mandatory to optimize the solvation behavior, the biodegradability, and the costs of the ionic liquid. Here, we report on current computational approaches to characterize the impact of the ionic liquid ions on the structure and dynamics of the biomolecule and its solvation layer to explore the full potential of ionic liquids.
Prospective Evaluation of Self-Reported Aggression in Transgender Persons
Authors: Defreyne Justine , T'Sjoen Guy , Bouman Walter Pierre , Brewin Nicola , Arcelus Jon
Published: April 2018

Background

Although research on the relation between testosterone and aggression in humans is inconclusive, guidelines (including the World Professional Association for Transgender Health Standards of Care, edition 7) have warned for an increase in aggression in transgender men taking testosterone treatment.

Aims

To investigate the association between levels of testosterone and aggression in treatment-seeking transgender people and explore the role of mental health psychopathology (anxiety and depressive symptoms) and social support in aggression in this population.

Methods

Every transgender person invited for assessment at a national transgender health clinic in the United Kingdom during a 3-year period (2012–2015) completed self-report measures for interpersonal problems, including levels of aggression (Inventory of Interpersonal Problems [IIP-32]), symptoms of anxiety and depression (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale [HADS]), social support (Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support), and experiences of transphobia before and 1 year after the initiation of gender-affirming hormonal therapy. Correlations between prospective scores for the IIP-32 factor “too aggressive” and prospective levels of sex steroids, prospective psychological (HADS), and baseline psychosocial measurements were tested.

Outcomes

Prospective scores for the factor “too aggressive” were not correlated to prospective serum testosterone levels.

Results

Results of 140 people (56 transgender men, 84 transgender women) were analyzed. A prospective increase in scores for the factor “too aggressive” of the IIP-32 in transgender men 1 year after being treated with testosterone treatment or a decrease of the IIP-32 aggression scores in transgender women 1 year after gender-affirming hormonal therapy was not found. However, a positive correlation was found between increasing HADS anxiety scores and increasing scores for the IIP-32 “too aggressive” score in the entire study population and a positive correlation with lower support from friends in transgender women.

Clinical Implications

Hormone-prescribing physicians can be reassured that the long-term administration of testosterone in transgender men does not increase aggressive behavior.

Strengths and Limitations

This is the 1st prospective study to assess the effect of gender-affirming hormonal care on aggression. Limitations included the use of different laboratories, the use of a patient-reported outcome measure, and the lack of aggression subtypes.

Conclusions

Testosterone therapy was not associated with an increase in levels of aggression in transgender men or a decrease in aggressive behavior in transgender women on antiandrogen and estrogen therapy, but other psychological and/or social factors, such as anxiety levels, appear to contribute to self-reported aggression in transgender people.
Psychometric Properties of the Sexual Event Diary in a Sample of Dutch Women With Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder
Authors: van Nes Yvonne , Bloemers Jos , Kessels Rob , van der Heijden Peter G.M. , van Rooij Kim , Gerritsen Jeroen , DeRogatis Leonard , Tuiten Adriaan
Published: April 2018

Background

Efficacy of on-demand drugs for women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder or female sexual interest/arousal disorder (FSIAD) should be assessed using a validated instrument that assesses the discrete sexual events during which the on-demand drug is taken, because this type of assessment is more proximate to an on-demand drug's efficacy compared to instruments that assess sexual function over longer periods of time.

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the psychometric properties of the Dutch translation of the previously validated 11-item Sexual Event Diary (SED) for measuring sexual satisfaction and sexual functioning during discrete sexual events.

Methods

Psychometric assessment was performed on data of 1,840 SEDs from 139 women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder/FSIAD, collected during a randomized clinical cross-over trial conducted in the Netherlands.

Outcomes

Item scores of the SED at the event level, and at subject level, summarized item scores during the placebo run-in period (PRI) and active treatment period, and score changes from PRI to active treatment period.

Results

Reliability and convergent validity were confirmed. All item scores showed the ability to discriminate between known groups. Larger mean score changes from PRI were observed in groups with known benefit from the medication, as compared to those with no benefit. Guyatt effect sizes ranged from 0.51–1.02, thereby demonstrating ability to detect change.

Clinical Translation

The Dutch version of the SED is an excellent instrument for assessing female sexual functioning and sexual satisfaction during discrete sexual events and for assessing these concepts over longer periods of time.

Conclusions

Data were collected in a randomized, well-controlled trial. The large number of data points gave high statistical power, and the results confirmed previous findings. However, care is needed when generalizing the SED's validity to other areas of research, eg, recreational drug use and sexual risky behaviors, since the current validation study has not used such data. Consistent with the US-English version, the Dutch version of the SED is a reliable, valid, and responsive instrument, and suitable for use in evaluating effects of on-demand drugs in women with FSIAD.
Desire to Have Children Among Transgender People in Germany: A Cross-Sectional Multi-Center Study
Authors: Auer Matthias K. , Fuss Johannes , Nieder Timo O. , Briken Peer , Biedermann Sarah V. , Stalla Günter K. , Beckmann Matthias W. , Hildebrandt Thomas
Published: April 2018

Background

Many trans individuals undergo medical interventions that result in irreversible loss of fertility. Little is known about their desire to have children and attitudes toward fertility preservation options.

Aim

To study how the desire for children and the use of fertility preservation options varies among trans women and trans men in different transitioning stages in Germany.

Methods

In this cross-sectional multi-center study, N = 99 trans women and N = 90 trans men were included. Of these, 26 of each sex were just about to start medical treatment.

Outcomes

Outcome parameter were the prevalence and determinants of a desire to have children in trans persons.

Results

Before treatment, a desire for children was significantly higher in trans men compared to trans women (P = .016). In contrast, in those who had already started treatment, a current desire to have children was equally present in about one fourth of participants of both genders while the interest in having children in the future was significantly higher in trans women (69.9%) than in trans men (46.9%; P = .034). Although 76.1% of trans women and 76.6% of trans men indicated that they had at least thought about preserving germ cells before starting medical transition, only 9.6% of trans women and 3.1% of trans men had put this idea into practice. Most trans men in both groups indicated that insemination of a female partner with sperm from an unrelated donor was a suitable option to fulfill their child wish, potentially explaining their low interest in preserving their own germ cells. Finally, a logistic regression analysis accounting for potential confounders revealed that overall trans women were more than twice as likely to have a current desire to have children (odds ratio 2.58), and this wish was on average 5.3% lower with each year of increasing age.

Clinical Translation

A low level of fertility preservation among trans persons is contrasted by a high level of desire for children. This highlights the importance of counseling trans individuals regarding fertility preservation options.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study that addresses desire to have children in a clinical sample of trans women. It is also the first that investigates this issue among trans men who have not started medical treatment, and the first comparison of both genders. A limitation for the generalization of our results is the special legal context in Germany that forbids oocyte donation for reciprocal in vitro fertilization. Reproductive desire is high among trans individuals, but the use of reproductive options is surprisingly low.
Fieldwork, Sustainability, and Environmental Education: The Centrality of Geographical Inquiry
Authors: Casinader Niranjan , Kidman Gillian
Published: April 2018

Common notions around the concept of sustainability tend to be framed within the values and principles that the world's natural environments need to be used and managed in such a way as to make them available for future generations. Consequently, pedagogical approaches in environmental education that follow this intellectual thread tend to adopt a standard scientific approach to inquiry-based learning. This article argues that the features of a geographical approach to inquiry, particularly in its wider conceptualisation of fieldwork, provides a much more effective means of developing an environmental education that is more cogniscent of the deeper aspects of sustainability. While the importance of the natural systems components of sustainability cannot be ignored, they tend to displace other inherent facets within the sustainability concept and, in particular, the reality that any discussion as to the sustainable use of natural environments must incorporate knowledge and understanding of the way people interact with these environments. We contend that sustainability, when taught in schools, has tended to be environmentally and scientifically based, diminishing the role of humans. In an example of how this deficit might be overcome, the Australian Curriculum incorporates sustainability as one of the three mandatory cross-curriculum priorities; that is, one of the avenues for encouraging complementary learning and teaching across different disciplines. Within this curriculum framework, the concept is expanded to not only include a consideration of the mutual interdependence of the environmental spheres (Systems), but also World View and Futures — thus including the human component. However, using the notion of the fieldwork imperative (Casinader & Kidman, 2017), which distinguishes between the reasons why we do fieldwork and the reasons why we should do fieldwork, we argue that sustainability education would be placed more effectively within the disciplinary domain of Geography, rather than as part of an integrated curriculum approach or in Science.