bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel in vivo Cerenkov luminescence image‐guided surgery on primary and metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Zeyu , Qu Yawei , Cao Yu , Shi Xiaojing , Guo Hongbo , Zhang Xiaojun , Zheng Sheng , Liu Haifeng , Hu Zhenhua , Tian Jie
Published: December 2019

Intraoperative Cerenkov luminescence imaging (CLI) can effectively improve the performance of tumor surgery. Nevertheless, the existing approaches are still unsatisfying to the clinical demands of open surgery. This study develops a novel intraoperative in vivo CLI approach to investigate the potential and value of Cerenkov luminescence (CL) image‐guided surgery. A system characterized with high sensitivity (19.61 kBq mL−1 18F‐FDG) and desirable spatial resolution (88.34 μm) is developed. CL image‐guided surgery is performed on colorectal cancer (CRC) models of mice and swine. Tumor surgery is guided by the static CL images, and the resection quality is evaluated quantitatively and contrasted with other imaging modalities exemplified by bioluminescence imaging (BLI). The in vivo results demonstrated the effectiveness of the proposed intraoperative CLI approach for removing primary and metastatic CRC. Safety of performing in vivo CL image‐guided surgery is verified as well through radiation measurements of related staffs. Overall, the developed intraoperative in vivo CLI approach can efficiently improve the cancer treatment.
Synthesis and in vitro antimicrobial studies of thiodihydropyrimidine derivatives
Authors: Pasupathi Mani , Santhi Namasivayam , Venkatesan Kasi
Published: December 2019

In the present study, a series of thiodihydropyrimidine derivatives were synthesized from different substituted aromatic aldehydes, ethyl acetoacetate, and urea/thiourea using a bimetallic TUD‐1 catalyst. The structures of all the synthesized compounds were characterized by melting point determination, thin layer chromatography (TLC), infrared (IR), 1HNMR, and 13C‐NMR values. All the synthesized compounds were screened for their antimicrobial activities against two gram positive bacteria, two‐gram negative bacteria, and two fungal strains.
Population Pharmacokinetic‐Pharmacodynamic Modeling for Propofol Anesthesia Guided by the Bispectral Index (BIS)
Authors: Araújo Ana Maria , Machado Humberto , de Pinho Paula Guedes , Soares‐da‐Silva Patrício , Falcão Amílcar
Published: December 2019

This study aimed to develop a population pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic (PKPD) model for propofol using data prospectively collected from a heterogeneous group of adult, elderly, and obese patients using the bispectral index (BIS) as a pharmacodynamic guide. Adult, obese (body mass index ≥35 kg/m2), and elderly patients (aged >65 years) were included. Propofol infusion was started at 2000 mg/h until loss of consciousness and then guided by target BIS values (40‐60). Measurements of propofol plasma concentration were performed using gas chromatography. A PKPD model was developed using NONMEM. The data set contained 423 propofol concentrations and 483 897 BIS values from 60 patients (20‐92 years, 42‐136 kg). A 3‐compartment model was used to describe the plasma concentrations of propofol. An allometric model using lean body weight calculated by the Janmahasatian formula was found to describe the data better than total body weight for all clearance parameters, V1 and V2. An age effect was found on Q2, Q3, V1, and V3. With respect to the PD model, the use of a 2‐compartment model significantly improved the model fit. Age and total body weight were included as covariates in the final pharmacodynamic model. We propose a PKPD model for propofol anesthesia with acceptable performance accuracy in a heterogeneous group of adult, elderly, and obese patients. A new method to predict propofol induction dose is presented. This method and the possibility to directly change target BIS values in opposition to the assumed target effect‐site concentration constitutes certain advantages to the clinical practice.
Relationship between pulmonary function and physical performance among community‐living people: results from Look‐up 7+ study
Authors: Landi Francesco , Salini Sara , Zazzara Maria Beatrice , Martone Anna Maria , Fabrizi Sofia , Bianchi Mariangela , Tosato Matteo , Picca Anna , Calvani Riccardo , Marzetti Emanuele
Published: December 2019

Background

While respiratory muscle strength is recognized to decline with aging process, the relationship between sarcopenia and pulmonary function remains to be studied. The present study was undertaken to provide a better insight into the comprehension of the relationship between pulmonary function and muscle function (strength and physical performance) using an unselected sample of subjects assessed during the Longevity Check‐up 7+ project.

Methods

Look‐up 7+ is an ongoing cross‐sectional survey started in June 2015 and conducted in unconventional settings (i.e. exhibitions, malls, and health promotion campaigns) across Italy. Candidate participants are eligible for enrolment if they are at least 18 years of age and provide written informed consent. Muscle strength was assessed by handgrip strength test, and physical performance was evaluated by chair stand test. Spirometer analysis was performed using the AirSmart system, and the largest forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), and peak expiratory flow (PEF) values were collected.

Results

The mean age of 925 subjects participating in the Longevity check‐7+ surveys and receiving the spirometer evaluation was 55.6 years (range from 18 to 98 years), and 501 (54%) were women. Overall, both in male and female participants, FVC, FEV1 and PEF positively correlated with handgrip strength and chair stand tests. The receiver operator characteristic curve analysis revealed that the areas under the curves for FVC, FEV1, and PEF were 0.79, 0.80 and 0.80, respectively.

Conclusions

The results clearly show that pulmonary function was positively associated with handgrip strength and chair stand tests. Based on this observation, muscle strength, physical performance, and pulmonary function should be recommended as the method of choice for the early detection of individuals at risk of probable sarcopenia and at the same time to better characterized the severity of sarcopenia status.
Umbilical cord blood stem cell therapy in premature brain injury: Opportunities and challenges
Authors: Peng Xirui , Song Juan , Li Bingbing , Zhu Changlian , Wang Xiaoyang
Published: December 2019

Preterm birth and associated brain injury are the primary cause of cerebral palsy and developmental disabilities and are among the most serious global health issues that modern society faces. Current therapy for infants suffering from premature brain injury is still mainly supportive, and there are no effective treatments. Thus there is a pressing need for comparative and translational studies on how to reduce brain injury and to increase regeneration and brain repair in preterm infants. There is strong supporting evidence for the use of umbilical cord blood (UCB)‐derived stem cell therapy for treating preterm brain injury and neurological sequelae. UCB‐derived stem cell therapy is effective in many animal models and has been shown to be feasible in clinical trials. Most of these therapies are still experimental, however. In this review, we focus on recent advances on the efficacy of UCB‐derived stem cell therapy in preterm infants with brain injury, and discuss the potential mechanisms behind their therapeutic effects as well as application strategies for future preclinical and clinical trials.
Modulation of the impacts of Madden–Julian Oscillation on winter rainfall in China by El Niño‐Southern Oscillation
Authors: Chen Xiong , Li Chongyin , Li Xin , Yang Minghao , Li Lifeng
Published: December 2019

This study revealed the modulation of the impacts of Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) on winter rainfall in China by El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) using reanalysis data and statistical analysis. When MJO is active over the Indian Ocean, its impacts are strengthened by El Niño, leading to enhanced positive rainfall anomalies in eastern China. However, the effects of MJO are counteracted by La Niña; thus, significant positive rainfall anomalies exist only in Zhejiang Province and adjacent areas. MJO activity over the western Pacific induces opposite rainfall anomalies in South China between El Niño and La Niña winters; rainfall in South China increases (decreases) in El Niño (La Niña) winters. Such differences in rainfall anomalies are closely related to anomalous circulation and moisture transport. Anomalous southwesterlies in eastern China are enhanced in El Niño winters when MJO is active over the Indian Ocean, which leads to increased moisture transport towards China and stronger ascending motion in eastern China. But the anomalous southwesterlies are weakened in La Niña winters, thereby resulting in less moisture transport and convergence. When MJO is active over the western Pacific, anomalous northeasterlies in mainland China are enhanced (weakened) in La Niña (El Niño) winters, which strengthens (weakens) the moisture divergence and descending motion in China. Moisture convergence anomalies that explain the rainfall anomalies in ENSO winters are mainly attributed to the effects of low‐frequency background state (LFBS) moisture and meridional winds. It was found that ENSO modulates the impacts of MJO by two main ways. First, ENSO can regulate the intensity and distribution of MJO activity. Therefore, MJO in the same phase will lead to different circulation and moisture transport anomalies in China. Second, ENSO‐induced LFBS circulation and moisture anomalies can also influence the moisture convergence in China, which will strengthen or weaken the effects of MJO.
Effect of Surfactant Systems, Alcohol Types, and Salinity on Cold‐Water Detergency of Triacylglycerol Semisolid Soil. Part II
Authors: Phaodee Parichat , Sabatini David A.
Published: December 2019

Our prior work found that detergency of coconut oil was relatively poor using C14‐15‐8PO‐SO4Na alone but showed promising improvement with the presence of linear intermediate‐chain alcohols (C7–C9 alcohols) in the surfactant formulation. The maximum detergency exceeded 90% removal using 0.1 w/v% C14‐15‐8PO‐SO4Na/0.2 w/v% 1‐octanol/4 w/v% NaCl (final optimized surfactant system) at 10 °C. The current work thus seeks to further investigate surfactant formulations capable of providing improved detergency performance. Different 50% linear anionic extended surfactant structures (LC14‐15‐8PO‐SO4Na, LC14‐15‐8PO‐3EO‐SO4Na, and LC14‐15‐8PO‐7EO‐SO4Na) were compared with the branched C14‐15‐8PO‐SO4Na previously studied. Detergency of coconut oil using C14‐15‐8PO‐SO4Na at 8 w/v% NaCl (S*) still performed more effectively than these new surfactant systems. The addition of octanol as a detergency additive was further studied, and it showed that S* reduced from 8 w/v% NaCl to 4 w/v% NaCl for 1‐octanol and to 2 w/v% NaCl for 2‐octanol and 2‐ethyl‐hexanol in the C14‐15‐8PO‐SO4Na surfactant formulation. Coconut oil removal significantly improved detergency from roughly 49% for no alcohol with 8 w/v% NaCl, to 83% for 2‐ethyl‐hexanol with 2 w/v% NaCl, to 95% for 1‐octanol with 4 w/v% NaCl, and to 98% for 2‐octanol with 2 w/v% NaCl. Further studies on octanol concentration showed that decreasing 1‐octanol from 1.2% (90 mM) to 0.2% (15.3 mM) and 2‐octanol from 1.2% (90 mM) to 0.5% (38.5 mM) still maintained detergency over 90% removal. In this work, cold‐water detergency was found to correlate with low interfacial tension above the melting point, improved wetting of the semisolid soil, and oil solubilization in surfactant micelles.
Commentary on the Special Section on Complex PTSD: Still Going Strong After All These Years
Authors: Ford Julian D.
Published: December 2019

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is inherently complex, yet a growing evidence base indicates that a complex variant (CPTSD) can be distinguished from classic PTSD based on evidence of clinically significant affect, interpersonal, and self/identity dysregulation. This Commentary to the Journal of Traumatic Stress special section on CPTSD reviews the results of four new studies that empirically tested the structure, traumatic stressor antecedents, and construct validity of CPTSD in relation to PTSD and borderline personality disorder (BPD). Based on these and prior empirical findings, a reconceptualization of PTSD, CPTSD, and BPD as posttraumatic threat, betrayal, and rejection disorders, respectively, is proposed. Implications for treatment of trauma survivors are discussed in relation to articles in this special section, which describe a modular framework for CPTSD treatment and an innovative attachment and self‐regulation focused on the redesign of a traditional outpatient mental health clinic.
Can Accurate Shear Wave Velocities Be Obtained in Kidneys?
Authors: Barr Richard G.
Published: December 2019

Objectives

There are conflicting results in the literature on the use of shear wave elastography of the kidney parenchyma to determine whether renal stiffness values are related to a disease process. This study was conducted to evaluate the raw data from 3 ultrasound systems and determine whether adequate displacement curves are obtained to accurately estimate shear wave speeds.

Methods

Shear wave elastography was performed on 5 healthy volunteers with 3 ultrasound systems. The raw data were collected and evaluated for the shear wave propagation quality to determine whether accurate estimates of renal shear wave speeds could be determined.

Results

Results from the 3 machines demonstrate that accurate shear wave displacement curves are not obtained with renal elastography on existing systems (as of June 2018). One vendor has recently released software that appears to acquire accurate shear wave displacements.

Conclusions

Elastographic studies performed on the kidney to date are likely to be inaccurate. A new algorithm that appears to acquire accurate shear wave displacements in the kidney has been developed. Additional studies are needed to confirm that the new algorithm provides accurate clinical results. This study demonstrates that although the system provides a shear wave speed, it is important to confirm the accuracy of that number by evaluating the raw data.
Quantifying tinnitus suppression in cochlear implantation using tinnitus interval‐limited tracking
Authors: Mallen Jonathan R. , Chiu Jerlon , Marquis Hillary , Ottochian Amanda , Perez Erin , Kuo Chia‐Ling , Otto Steve , Ryan Tessa , Roberts Daniel S.
Published: December 2019

Objectives

Quantify the effects of cochlear implants (CI) on tinnitus suppression in patients with previous cochlear implantation using a novel audiologic sequence: Tinnitus Interval Limited Tracking (TILT).

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

Consecutive patients with tinnitus and previous cochlear implantation for profound hearing loss underwent an audiologic testing sequence called TILT. Patients rated tinnitus severity using the validated Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI) as well as a visual analog scale at baseline and in a variety of audiologic scenarios. Changes in tinnitus severity between scenarios allow for the isolation of the effects of masking and electrical stimulation on the reduction of tinnitus.

Results

Twenty patients were enrolled, 10 of whom have tinnitus with average THI 30.2 (standard deviation 22.6). Patients had an acute decrease in tinnitus severity when their CIs were turned on, even in the absence of noise in a soundproof booth. This effect reversed once the CIs were turned off. This effect was greater in magnitude than with masking that occurred with the presentation of soft speech. Acute tinnitus severity trended toward improvement with increased level of presented speech. Degree of improvement was not correlated with THI.

Conclusion

Acute tinnitus suppression in patients using CIs is multifactorial. Masking plays a role; however, it cannot sufficiently account for the totality of symptom improvement experienced by CI patients. Quantifiable tinnitus suppression observed when a CI is turned on, even in the absence of audiologic stimulation, suggests that electrical stimulation is involved in the mechanism of symptom improvement in these patients.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 130: 2047–2052, 2020
Conquering the Rayleigh Scattering Limit of Silica Glass Fiber at Visible Wavelengths with a Hollow‐Core Fiber Approach
Authors: Gao Shou‐fei , Wang Ying‐ying , Ding Wei , Hong Yi‐feng , Wang Pu
Published: December 2019

The performance of optical fiber communication, laser, and sensing systems is ultimately limited by the attenuation of optical fiber, which cannot be lower than the barrier set by Rayleigh scattering in bulk silica glass. In this work, the longstanding Rayleigh scattering limit is conquered by using a hollow‐core fiber (HCF). Two visible‐guiding hollow‐core conjoined‐tube anti‐resonant fibers are successfully fabricated and exhibit overall losses of 3.8 dB km−1 at 680 nm and 4.9 dB km−1 at 558 nm, respectively. The latter surpasses the Rayleigh scattering limit of silica glass fiber by 2 dB km−1 at the corresponding wavelength. Numerical simulations indicate that the loss level the authors achieve is still much higher than the ultimate loss limit caused by surface scattering of this HCF geometry, leaving plenty of room for further refinement.
Environment‐Dependent Adhesive Behaviors of Mussel‐Inspired Coordinate‐Crosslinked Bioadhesives
Authors: Li Sidi , Chen Ning , Li Yang , Zhao Jin , Hou Xin , Yuan Xubo
Published: December 2019

Mussel‐inspired, coordinate‐crosslinked gels have attracted extensive attention but their adhesive behaviors are still not fully understood. Herein, four mussel‐inspired molecules with different molecular characteristics are synthesized to study their adhesive behaviors. It is demonstrated that their adhesive behaviors are dependent on the environments. For these mussel‐inspired molecules, physiological environment containing relatively low Fe3+ contents is appropriate for achieving high adhesive strength. In addition, the mussel‐inspired molecules with positive charge, high molecular weight, or high catechol substitute ratio benefited for improving adhesive strength, however, only in the appropriate environment. In the inappropriate environments (physiological pH, high Fe3+ contents), the adhesives show similar low adhesive strength. These environment‐dependent adhesive behaviors are due to the poor interfacial adhesive capacity of the adhesives formed in the inappropriate environments. The study uncovers the adhesive behaviors of mussel‐inspired coordinate‐crosslinked gels and thus may further provide valuable evidences in the design of metal‐crosslinked bioadhesives.
Changes in Thalamic Dopamine Innervation in a Progressive Parkinson's Disease Model in Monkeys
Authors: Monje Mariana H.G. , Blesa Javier , García‐Cabezas Miguel Ángel , Obeso José A. , Cavada Carmen
Published: December 2019

Background

Dopamine loss beyond the mesostriatal system might be relevant in pathogenic mechanisms and some clinical manifestations in PD. The primate thalamus is densely and heterogeneously innervated with dopaminergic axons, most of which express the dopamine transporter, as does the nigrostriatal system. We hypothesized that dopamine depletion may be present in the thalamus of the parkinsonian brain and set out to ascertain possible regional differences.

Methods

The toxin 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridine was administered to adult macaque monkeys using a slow intoxication protocol. The treated macaques were classified into 2 groups according to their motor status: nonsymptomatic and parkinsonian. Dopamine innervation was studied with immunohistochemistry for the dopamine transporter. Topographic maps of the dopamine transporter‐immunoreactive axon distribution were generated and the total length and length density of these axons stereologically estimated using a 3‐dimensional fractionator.

Results

Parkinsonian macaques exhibited lower dopamine transporter‐immunoreactive axon length density than controls in mediodorsal and centromedian‐parafascicular nuclei. Dopamine denervation in the mediodorsal nucleus was already noticeable in nonsymptomatic macaques and was even greater in parkinsonian macaques. Reticular nucleus dopamine transporter‐immunoreactive axon length density presented an inverse pattern, increasing progressively to the maximum density seen in parkinsonian macaques. No changes were observed in ventral thalamic nuclei. Dopamine transporter‐immunoreactive axon maps supported the quantitative findings.

Conclusions

Changes in the dopamine innervation of various thalamic nuclei are heterogeneous and start in the premotor parkinsonian stage. These changes may be involved in some poorly understood nonmotor manifestations of PD. © 2019 The Authors.Movement Disorderspublished by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Immuno‐Resolving Ability of Resolvins, Protectins, and Maresins Derived from Omega‐3 Fatty Acids in Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Kwon Youngjoo
Published: December 2019

Omega‐3 fatty acid consumption has been suggested to be beneficial for the prevention of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Its effects have been attributed to anti‐inflammatory activity, with the inhibition of arachidonic acid metabolism playing a central role. However, a more recent view is that omega‐3 fatty acids play an active role as the precursors of potent, specialized pro‐resolving mediators (SPMs), such as resolvins, protectins, and maresins. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)‐ and eicosapentaenoic‐acid‐derived SPMs are identified in the adipose tissue but the levels of certain SPMs (e.g., protectin D1) are markedly reduced with obesity, suggesting adipose SPM deficiency, potentially resulting in unresolved inflammation. Supplementation of the biosynthetic intermediates of SPM (e.g., 17‐hydroxy‐DHA) or omega‐3 fatty acids increases the level of adipose SPMs, reduces adipose inflammation (decrease in macrophage accumulation and change to less inflammatory macrophages), and enhances insulin sensitivity. The findings from studies using rodent obesity models must be translated to humans. It will be important to further elucidate the underlying mechanisms by which obesity reduces the levels of and the sensitivity to SPM in adipose tissues. This will enable the development of nutrition therapy to enhance the effects of omega‐3 fatty acids in the prevention and/or treatment of T2DM.
Human Milk Oligosaccharides Differently Modulate Goblet Cells Under Homeostatic, Proinflammatory Conditions and ER Stress
Authors: Cheng Lianghui , Kong Chunli , Walvoort Marthe T. C. , Faas Marijke M. , de Vos Paul
Published: December 2019

Scope

Human milk oligosaccharides (hMOs) have beneficial effects on intestinal barrier function, but the mechanisms of action are not well understood. Here, the effects of hMOs on goblet cells, which indicate that some hMOs may enhance mucus barrier function through direct modulation of goblet cell function, are studied.

Methods and results

The modulatory effects of 2′‐fucosyllactose (2′‐FL), 3‐fucosyllactose (3‐FL), lacto‐N‐triaose II (LNT2), and galacto‐oligosaccharides (GOS) on the expression of goblet cell secretory related genes MUC2, TFF3, and RETNLB, and the Golgi‐sulfotransferase genes CHST5 and GAL3ST2 of LS174T are determined by real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR. 3‐FL, LNT2, and GOS‐modulated LS174T gene expression profiles in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. In addition, the upregulation of MUC2 is confirmed by immunofluorescence staining. Effects of 2′‐FL, 3‐FL, LNT2, and GOS on gene transcription of LS174T are also assessed during exposure to TNF‐α, IL‐13, or tunicamycin. During TNF‐α challenge, 3‐FL and LNT2 enhance MUC2 and TFF3 gene expression. After IL‐13 exposure, 2′‐FL, 3‐FL, and LNT2 all show upregulating effects on MUC2; 3‐FL and LNT2 also enhance TFF3 expression. LNT2 significantly reverses Tm‐induced downregulation of TFF3, RETNLB, and CHST5.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that hMOs may enhance mucus barrier function through direct modulation of intestinal goblet cells. Effects are structure‐ and stressor‐dependent.
Low cost beam‐steering leaky‐wave antenna for microwave application
Authors: Mighani Mojtaba
Published: December 2019

Leaky‐wave antennas (LWAs) provide interesting features such as high gain beams which are scannable with frequency, radiating through broadside and ease in fabrication, suggesting them as a favorable solution for communication systems at upper microwave frequencies. In this article, a novel LWA has realized in substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) technology with excellent broadside radiation at 15.82 GHz that proposed a closed and linear dispersion around broadside utilizing two‐radiation mechanism. In addition, the circuit model for the unit cell of LWA has presented around the broadside frequency that confirms our method of closing the stopband. Measured and simulation results are in good agreement that confirms this approach.
Recommendations for medical care in the pediatric oncology camp setting: Consensus statements based on Delphi methodology
Authors: Alexander Sarah , Science Michelle , Breakey Vicky , Clarke Averill , Gibson Paul
Published: December 2019

For many children with cancer, participation in oncology camp programs is an important component of healing that offers opportunities for fun and can have substantial impacts on social and physical well‐being. Optimal medical care and infectious screening for children attending oncology camp is critical to maximize safety and opportunities for participation. This paper describes recommendations for a series of common medical issues unique to the care of children with cancer in the camp setting generated by a modified Delphi consensus approach.
Improvement in electromechanical performance of degradable bio‐inspired soft ionic actuators with high energy density conductive electrodes
Authors: Sun Zhuangzhi , Liu Sicheng , Li Zhaoxin , Liu Xi , Jing Mingxing , Qin Fuxiang
Published: December 2019

Recently, renewable natural electroactive soft ionic actuators have attracted widespread attention to its potential applications in biomedical equipment, soft robots, and micro‐nano actuators and sensors, and so on. However, low‐energy conversion rates, unstable stability, and slow response speed that severely constrain their practical application. In this article, three kinds of conductive nanoparticles (polyaniline [PANI], polythiophene and its derivatives [PEDOT], and acetylene black [ACET]) are co‐doped into the electrodes of chitosan/MCNT/rGO to prepare high performance soft ionic actuators, and specific capacitance, energy density, cycling stability, and conductivity have been significantly improved. Results showed that after doping three kinds of conductive nanoparticles, the electrode has the highest energy density (up to 145.922 Wh Kg−1), the highest conductivity (up to 850.91 S m−1) and good cycling stability with 82.55% of initial capacitance after 10 000 cycles. After assembling, ionic actuators have the maximum deflection displacement (up to 17.50 mm) increased by 7.6 times and the largest output force (up to 4.795 mN) increased by 2.465 times under power‐on excitation for 120 seconds of 5 V DC voltage. In addition, the displacement of ionic actuators with doping ACET electrode is better than actuators with the doped PANI electrode, while the output force of ionic actuators with doping PANI electrode is higher than actuators with the doped ACET electrode. This inconsistency indicates that the three conductive particles improve electrode performance through different mechanisms. This inconsistency demonstrates that the introduction of some conductive particles can enhance the ordered lamellar void structure inside the electrode and specific capacitance, and the introduction of some particles can improve the cycle stability.
One psychological second does not necessarily last 1000 ms
Authors: Grondin Simon , Laflamme Vincent , Tétreault Emie
Published: December 2019

The duration of the representation of 1 s was estimated with two methods: (a) the adjustments of the duration of a sound and (b) the production of 10 s with counts from 1 to 11. The estimations were not close to 1 s and varied considerably. Assuming that the representation of 1 s is close to 1000 ms could well be misleading.
Exposure to guideline‐recommended drugs after a first acute myocardial infarction in older adults: does deprivation matter?
Authors: Akator Adjo Enyonam , Blais Claudia , Gamache Philippe , Lunghi Carlotta , Guénette Line
Published: December 2019

Background

Inequities between guideline‐recommended drugs (GRD) exposure and socioeconomic status might exist. The objective was to assess the association between a material and a social deprivation index and GRD exposure following a first acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in older adults in the province of Quebec.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Quebec Integrated Chronic Disease Surveillance System. Elderly ≥66 years, hospitalized for a first AMI between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2011 and covered by the public drug plan were identified. Exposure to GRD (i.e. simultaneous use of 1) antiplatelet, 2) beta‐blocker, 3) lipid‐lowering and 4) angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor or angiotensin II receptor blocker drugs) was assessed 30 and 365 days following hospital discharge. Associations between deprivation index and GRD exposure were estimated with log‐binomial regressions adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Exposure to GRD was 52.2% and 48.0%, 30 and 365 days after hospital discharge, respectively. No statistically significant association was observed in multivariate analysis for both time points. Thirty days post hospital discharge, adjusted prevalence ratio of non‐exposure to GRD was 0.98 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.95‐1.02) for most materially deprived vs. least deprived and 1.04 (95% CI: 0.99‐1.08) for most socially deprived vs. least deprived. Similar results were observed for 365 days.

Conclusion

Exposure to GRD after a first urgent AMI among older adults insured by the public drug plan in the province of Quebec is relatively low. Reasons and risk groups for this low exposure should be studied to improve secondary prevention. However, results suggest equitable access to GRD, regardless of deprivation.
Fabrication of an Optochemical Sensor Based on Triacetylcellulose Polymer for Colorimetric Determination of Trinitrotoluene
Authors: Shafiee Mehdi , Larki Arash , Faal Ali Yeganeh
Published: December 2019

The development of an optochemical sensor for colorimetric determination of trinitrotoluene (TNT) from aqueous samples is described. The optode film was formed based on the immobilization of trioctylmethylammonium chloride (Aliquat 336) on a triacetylcellulose membrane, which acts as a fixed carrier and anion‐exchanger. When the colorless and transparent optochemical sensor are employed in TNT solution samples, a red‐orange color with maximum absorption wavelength at 530 nm develops in consequence of formation of TNT‐Aliquat 336 ion pair in the sensor membrane. The optical response of this optode is being proportional to concentration of TNT in aqueous solution. Various experimental parameters such as pH, optode composition, response time and reversibility have been studied and optimized. The analytical performance of the optode was evaluated, obtaining a linear response over the range of 1.0 to 16.0 mg/L, a limit of detection of 0.14 mg/L, good reproducibility and selectivity. The sensor was seen to exhibit a fully reversible response. The developed optode in the present work was applied to the determination of TNT in water and soil samples with satisfactory results.
Study of the Impact Energy Release Characteristics of Fine‐Grained Fe−Al Energetic Jets
Authors: Li Qiang , Du Ye , Jiang Chunlan
Published: December 2019

Fine‐grained Fe−Al energetic materials have high reaction enthalpies, and the release energy of the iron phase and a large portion of the active aluminium phase in sintered materials enables the replacement of conventional materials in new types of weapons. To study the energy release characteristics of fine‐grained Fe−Al energetic jets under impact loading, a dynamic energy acquisition system is established to quantify the energy generated by the response of fine‐grained Fe−Al energetic jets to impact targets. The pressure‐time curves of fine‐grained Fe−Al energetic jets with different ratios under different impact conditions are obtained, and a method for calculating the pressure differential value is proposed to quantitatively determine the energy release values of fine‐grained Fe−Al energetic jets. The energy release mechanism of the Fe−Al energetic jet is analysed at the micro‐level by recovering the reaction products. The results show that there is an optimal Fe−Al ratio that attains the greatest energy release effect from fine‐grained Fe−Al energetic jets. With increasing impact energy, the energy released by energetic jets tends to increase, and an impact energy threshold that saturates the chemical reaction of energetic materials in the jets exists. The relationship between the impact conditions and the energy release value of fine‐grained Fe−Al energetic jets is established.
The effects of curcumin supplementation on body mass index, body weight, and waist circumference in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A systematic review and dose–response meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Baziar Nima , Parohan Mohammad
Published: December 2019

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major cause of liver‐related morbidity; its prevalence is elevating due to the rising epidemic of obesity. Several clinical trials have examined the effects of curcumin supplementation on anthropometric variables in NAFLD patients with inconclusive results. This dose–response meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the impact of curcumin supplementation on body mass index (BMI), body weight, and waist circumference (WC) in patients with NAFLD. A systematic review of the literature was conducted using PubMed/Medline, ISI Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Sid.ir, and Magiran.com to identify eligible studies up to March 2019. A meta‐analysis of eligible studies was performed using the random‐effects model to estimate the pooled effect size. Eight randomized controlled trials with 520 participants (curcumin group = 265 and placebo group = 255) were included. Supplementation dose and duration ranged from 70 to 3,000 mg/day and 8 to 12 weeks, respectively. Curcumin supplementation significantly reduced BMI (weighted mean difference [WMD] = −0.34 kg/m2, 95% CI [−0.64, −0.04], p < .05) and WC (WMD = −2.12 cm, 95% CI [−3.26, −0.98], p < .001). However, no significant effects of curcumin supplementation on body weight were found. These results suggest that curcumin supplementation might have a positive effect on visceral fat and abdominal obesity that have been associated with NAFLD.
Ultra‐high performance supercritical fluid chromatography combined with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry for the characterization of pentaerythritol fatty acid esters
Authors: Tang Yan , Pan Jinheng , Sun Tangqiang , Hu Yajing , Du Zhenxia
Published: December 2019

Rationale

Pentaerythritol fatty acid esters are an excellent lubricant oil additive, due to their good biodegradability, thermal ability, anti‐wear, and friction properties. However, to meet the application requirements, fatty acids with different alkyl chain lengths are reacted with pentaerythritol, resulting in complex ester compositions. To reveal the relation between the functionalities and the composition of esters, it is important to develop a method for their analysis.

Methods

We developed a method using ultra‐high‐performance supercritical fluid chromatography combined with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UHPSFC/QTOF‐MS) to separate and characterize pentaerythritol fatty acid esters. This method has the advantages such as short analysis time and high separation efficiency for such weakly polar compounds; high‐resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) provides exact mass information, enabling the identification of the structure of the pentaerythritol fatty acid esters.

Results

Based on the exact masses and characteristic ions, the pentaerythritol fatty acid esters and their main fragmentation pathways were identified; the fatty acid composition was also deduced from characteristic product ions. A dihydrogen rearrangement reaction caused the neutral loss of fatty acid fragment; [M + Na‐FA]+ product ions (a stable six‐member ring structure) were produced due to the absence of a γ hydrogen in pentaerythritol fatty acid esters.

Conclusions

A UHPSFC/QTOF‐MS method was successfully employed for the separation of pentaerythritol fatty acid esters. Exact masses and product ion information were determined using HRMS. The composition of the fatty acids was effectively deduced by characteristic ions and their relative abundances. This method is an effective means for the quality control and process optimization of this type of product, serving as a positive reference for further study on pentaerythritol fatty acid esters.
Simplified approach to reduce transient overvoltages on insulation regarding compaction of 400‐kV overhead transmission lines
Authors: Podkoritnik Simon , Vižintin Stane
Published: December 2019

The paper presents a methodology with a new simplified approach, as a set of procedures, aiming to optimize the insulation level when compacting 400‐kV overhead transmission lines (OTLs) in order to increase their operational reliability. The procedure initiates from presupposed requirements for compaction, as it is becoming increasingly more difficult to carry out reconstruction, revitalization, or construction of new OTLs while keeping the original design criteria. The main purpose of this approach is to reduce transients on the insulation, which are caused by direct lightning strikes to the tower top, and influence switching overvoltages using an additional shield wire on OTLs. The insulation leader progression model E50% and the dynamic ionization model Eion for grounding with the constant ratio between the tower grounding resistance Rg and specific ground resistivity ρg are used to evaluate the lightning transients. For the analysis, the switching overvoltages phase domain transmission line model is used, where OTLs are divided into a number of short segments. For the purpose of this investigation, a mathematical model of a double‐circuit compact OTL is implemented. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Collaborative control of thermostatically controlled appliances for balancing renewable generation in smart grid
Authors: Zhao Bing , Zeng Lukun , Li Bin , Sun Yi , Wang Zengping , Shahzad Muhammad , Xi Peifeng
Published: December 2019

As more and more renewable generation resources are integrated into the smart grid, they are likely to cause supply–demand imbalance such as overgeneration due to their uncertain and variable nature, resulting in poor power quality and unreliable power delivery. To balance overgeneration, this paper presents a collaborative control strategy of thermostatically controlled appliances in the timescale of minutes. The proposed strategy includes four parts: state awareness, real‐time analysis, scientific decision‐making, and precise execution. A responsive task‐type model is designed to identify the executable task type of an appliance in the state awareness part. A multiobjective 0–1 programming method is used to solve the optimal control combination in the scientific decision‐making part. And a thermostat set‐point control rule is used to generate the control signals of appliances in the precise execution part. In order to illustrate the advantage of the proposed strategy, four case studies are designed, and the advantage of the strategy is validated by the simulation results of the case studies. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Effects of polystyrene microbeads on cytotoxicity and transcriptomic profiles in human Caco‐2 cells
Authors: Wu Shijin , Wu Mei , Tian Dongcan , Qiu Lequan , Li Tongtong
Published: December 2019

Microplastics (MPs) pollution is a global paradigm that raises concern in relation to environment and human health. In order to investigate the molecular toxicity mechanisms of MPs, transcriptomic analyses were performed on in vitro Caco‐2 cell model. After observing that polystyrene microplastics (PS‐MPs) decreased cell viability in a dose‐dependent manner, the responsible genes and involved pathways that might make contribution to PS‐MBs‐induced toxicity to Caco‐2 cells were identified with Illumina RNA seq. A total of 442 genes including, 210 up‐regulated ones and 232 down‐regulated ones, showed differential expression after treatment by PS‐MPs with a concentration of 12.5 mg L−1 or 50.0 mg L−1 for 24 hours. Gene Ontology (GO) annotation enriched unigenes can be grouped into three separated clusters: cellular component (CC), biological process (BP), and molecular function (MF). The dominate pathways related to NF‐κB, MAPK signaling, cytokine‐cytokine receptor interaction, and toll‐like receptor were strongly influenced by PS‐MBs. These pathways are involved in modulating cell inflammatory and proliferation. The qPCR were applied to investigate the transcriptional level of five proliferation related genes (Ras, ERK, MER, CDK4, Cyclin D1) and four inflammation related genes (TRPV1, iNOS, IL‐1β, IL‐8), and the results were consistent with RNA‐seq data. This study has provided new insight into the understanding of the toxicity effects of PS‐MBs‐induced intestinal inflammatory diseases.
Challenge for the detection of microplastics in the environment
Authors: Lv Lulu , Yan Xiemin , Feng Limin , Jiang Shiqi , Lu Zifan , Xie Huifeng , Sun Shengli , Chen Jinjun , Li Chengyong
Published: December 2019

As an emerging contaminant in the environment, microplastics have attracted worldwide attention. Although research methods on microplastics in the environment have been reported extensively, the data on microplastics obtained cannot be comparable due to different methods. In this work, we critically reviewed the analytical methods of microplastics, including sample collection, separation, identification, and quantification. Manta trawl and tweezers or cassette corers are used to collect water samples and sediments, respectively. For biota sample, internal organs need to be dissected and separated to obtain microplastics. Density differences are often used to separate microplastics from the sample matrix. Visual classification is one of the most common methods for identifying microplastics, and it can be better detected by combining it with other instruments. However, they are not suitable for detection nanoplastics, which may lead to underestimation of risk. The abundance of microplastics varies with the detection method. Thus, the analytical methods for microplastics need to be standardized as soon as possible. Meanwhile, new methods for analyzing nanoplastics are urgently needed.

Practitioner points

Sampling, separation, identification, and quantification are important procedures.

The sampling and separation methods for microplastics need to be standardized.

The organic matter can be removed by digestion to facilitate identification.

Combine microscope with analytical instruments to better identify microplastics.

There is still a challenge to quantification of smaller‐sized plastic particles.
FinTech, InsurTech, and the Regulators
Authors: Chatzara Viktoria
Published: December 2019

Considering the rapid evolution and penetration of technology in the financial sector in general, and in the insurance sector more specifically, FinTech and InsurTech respectively are destined to affect the scope and the implementation of applicable regulation. A number of issues arise: which are the value chain participants that will be ultimately subject to regulation? Who is the competent regulator from a sectoral point of view? How will the geographic scope of each national regulator’s powers be delineated, considering the global character of FinTech services? What should be the appropriate regulatory tools and methods to be applied? These issues are outlined in Sect. 1. A number of international organizations and fora are approaching and examining the FinTech/ InsurTech phenomenon, to assess its possible benefits and implications for the regulated markets. The activities undertaken by the Financial Stability Board (FSB), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), and the International Association of Insurance Supervisors (IAIS) are briefly presented in Sect. 2. From a European perspective, EU authorities and institutions, including the three European Supervisory Authorities (EIOPA, EBA, and ESMA) also undertake initiatives, targeted at better comprehending the FinTech/ InsurTech phenomenon, as described in Sect. 3. Finally, there are a number of national regulators who are proactive on the national level and undertake measures aiming to foster technological innovation, in the provision of financial and insurance services, as mentioned in Sect. 4.

The regulatory activity is evolving very fast. It is still in a rather preliminary phase, but a large amount of new rules is expected to be produced within the next 2 or 3 years.
Understanding vaccine acceptance and demand—and ways to increase them
Authors: Habersaat Katrine Bach , Jackson Cath
Published: December 2019

Vaccination saves millions of lives, and the World Health Organization (WHO) European Region celebrated record high coverage in 2018. Still, national or sub-national coverage is insufficient to stop the spread of vaccine-preventable diseases. Health authorities are increasingly aware of the need to prioritize the “demand” side of vaccination. Achieving high and equitable vaccination uptake in all population groups is not a quick-fix; it requires long-term investment in multifaceted interventions, informed by research with the target groups. The WHO focuses on both individual and context determinants of vaccination behaviours. Individual determinants include risk perceptions, (dis)trust and perceived constraints; insights from psychology help us understand these. Context determinants include social norms, socioeconomic status and education level, and the way health systems are designed, operate and are financed. The WHO recommends using a proven theoretical model to understand vaccination behaviours and has adapted the “COM‑B model” for their Tailoring Immunization Programmes (TIP) approach. This adapted model is described in the article. Informed by insights into the factors affecting vaccination behaviours, interventions and policies can be planned to increase vaccination uptake. Some evidence exists on proven methods to do this. At the individual level, some interventions have been seen to increase vaccination uptake, and experimental studies have assessed how certain messages or actions affect vaccination perceptions. At the context level, there is more documentation for effective strategies, including those that focus on making vaccination the easy, convenient and default behaviour and that focus on the interaction between caregivers and health workers.
Molecular mechanisms mediating root hydrotropism: what we have observed since the rediscovery of hydrotropism
Authors: Miyazawa Yutaka , Takahashi Hideyuki
Published: December 2019

Roots display directional growth toward moisture in response to a water potential gradient. Root hydrotropism is thought to facilitate plant adaptation to continuously changing water availability. Hydrotropism has not been as extensively studied as gravitropism. However, comparisons of hydrotropic and gravitropic responses identified mechanisms that are unique to hydrotropism. Regulatory mechanisms underlying the hydrotropic response appear to differ among different species. We recently performed molecular and genetic analyses of root hydrotropism in Arabidopsis thaliana. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of specific mechanisms mediating root hydrotropism in several plant species.