bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepoxilins raise circulating insulin levels in vivo
Authors: Pace-Asciak Cecil R. , Demin Peter M. , Estrada Marvin , Liu Guang-Ying
Published: July 2002

We have demonstrated over a decade ago that hepoxilins cause the release of insulin from isolated pancreatic islets of Langerhans in vitro. However, no studies are available so far to indicate whether these compounds are active in vivo. The present study is the first to our knowledge which demonstrates that hepoxilins administered intra‐arterially in the anaesthetized rat cause the release of insulin in the circulation. This release is dependent on the glucose status of the rat. Hence, animals fasted overnight do not respond to hepoxilin administration, while animals that have had free access to food respond to hepoxilins with a rise in insulin concentrations in blood. The hepoxilin effect is rapid and varies with different hepoxilins, the most potent of which is hepoxilin A3 (HxA3) (both the 8S and the 8R enantiomers). Administration of 100 μg HxA3 produces a rise in blood insulin equivalent to that caused by the administration of 5 mg glucose. In view of earlier evidence showing that these compounds cause a rise in intracellular calcium levels in vitro at a <1 μg/ml concentration through a receptor‐mediated mechanism, we speculate that the actions of hepoxilins in causing the release of insulin from the pancreas may be due to alterations in calcium levels within the β‐cell. We believe that hepoxilins may represent new lead compounds as therapeutics in type II diabetes mellitus.
Regulation of IGF‐I, IGFBP‐4 and IGFBP‐5 gene expression by loading in mouse skeletal muscle
Authors: Awede Bonaventure , Thissen Jean-Paul , Gailly Phillipe , Lebacq Jean
Published: July 2002

Gene expression of IGF‐I, IGFBP‐4 and IGFBP‐5 was studied in hindhimb skeletal muscle of mice, which were either overloaded or unloaded for 8 days. Overloading induced a 15% hypertrophy in soleus muscle associated with a 60% increase of IGF‐I transcript levels and a doubling of IGFBP‐4 mRNA levels. IGFBP‐5 mRNA levels were decreased to one third of the control value. Changes in IGFBPs mRNA always preceded changes in IGF‐I gene expression. Unloading by hindlimb suspension resulted in atrophy of soleus muscle (20%) and phenotype change towards the fast type associated with a transient decrease of IGF‐I mRNA (30%) and a sustained increase (×2) of IGFBP‐5 transcript. These alterations in IGFBPs expression, in unloaded or overloaded soleus, suggest that they may play a role in skeletal muscle adaptation to changes in loading.
Translocation of cytochrome c from the mitochondria to the cytosol occurs during heat‐induced programmed cell death in cucumber plants
Authors: Balk Janneke , Leaver Christopher J , McCabe Paul F
Published: July 2002

In mammals mitochondria play a critical role in the activation of programmed cell death (PCD). One mechanism by which mitochondria can commit a cell to death is by translocating cytochrome c into the cytosol where it activates cell death caspases. However, release of cytochrome c does not appear to be a feature of caspase activation in nematodes or insects, similarly, there is no evidence for cytochrome c release during the caspase‐independent PCD that can occur in Dictyostelium cells. In an attempt to understand the underlying regulation of PCD in plants we investigated if mitochondrial components were released into the cytosol when plant cells are induced to undergo PCD. PCD was triggered in cucumber cotyledons by subjecting them to a short 55°C heat treatment. This heat treatment has previously been shown to trigger PCD in other plant species and cell death was confirmed in cucumber using morphological (cellular condensation) and molecular (DNA ‘laddering’) markers of PCD. We present evidence that, unlike Dictyostelium and invertebrate PCDs, cytochrome c release is an early event in plant PCD. The mitochondrial release of cytochrome c following a PCD‐inducing stimulus in both plants and mammals suggests the pathways have been conserved during evolution, having been derived from ancestral unicellular death programmes.
The girl child
Authors: Fathalla M.F
Published: July 2002

The health of the girl child is a concern for obstetrician‐gynecologists. Pediatric gynecologic conditions deserve special attention. The obstetric performance of the adult woman depends in large part on the health and healthcare of the girl child. Gender discrimination against the girl child violates her human rights and adversely impacts on her health and her life. The profession has a social responsibility to advocate for the girl child's right to health.
Clinical classification of vesicouterine fistula
Authors: Józwik Maciej , Józwik Marcin
Published: July 2002

Objectives and Methods: The aim of this paper is to propose a classification of vesicouterine fistula based on the routes of menstrual flow. Results: Three types of the fistula are distinguished: type I — with menouria; type II — with dual flow via both the bladder and vagina; and type III — with normal vaginal menses. Conclusions: There is relevance of such division to both diagnosis and treatment. The simplicity and clinical utility of this classification warrant its widespread use.
Non‐cirrhotic portal hypertension in pregnancy
Authors: Aggarwal N. , Sawhney H. , Vasishta K. , Dhiman R.K. , Chawla Y.
Published: July 2002

Objective: To study the outcome of pregnancy in women with non‐cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH). Method: A retrospective analysis of 50 pregnancies in 27 women with NCPH was carried out. Pregnancy outcome was compared in extra hepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO) and non‐cirrhotic portal fibrosis (NCPF). Results: The mean maternal age was 24.60±2.857 years, and the disease was diagnosed during pregnancy in 15 (55.6%) patients. Variceal bleeding occurred in 17/50 (34%) pregnancies and the majority (88.2%) of them responded to endoscopic sclerotherapy. Incidence of variceal bleeding during pregnancy was lower in pregnancies where the disease was diagnosed prior to pregnancy (8.6%), and it was 43.5% in EHPVO and 25.9% in NCPF. The mean birth weight of the neonates was 2668.4±427.42 g, and the incidence of abortion, prematurity, small for gestational age babies and perinatal death was 20, 17.5, 12.5 and 20%, respectively. Variceal bleeding during pregnancy was associated with a higher incidence of abortion (29.4%) and perinatal death (33.3%). Conclusion: Variceal bleeding is the most common complication in pregnancies with NCPH. Pregnancies can be allowed and managed successfully in patients with NCPH.
Efficient and effective emergency obstetric care in a rural Indian community where most deliveries are at home
Authors: McCord C. , Premkumar R. , Arole S. , Arole R.
Published: July 2002

Objectives: Most life threatening obstetric complications require hospital treatment to avert maternal mortality. Some assume that in developing countries hospital service for the poor must be in government hospitals and that a large proportion of deliveries needs to be in these hospitals to provide timely access to emergency care. This presents a major problem in countries like India, where almost all rural deliveries are at home and accessible government hospitals generally do not provide surgical treatment for obstetric emergencies. The study's objective was to determine obstetric outcomes, patterns and costs of obstetric care in a part of rural Maharashtra, India, where obstetric outcomes appear relatively good even though most deliveries are at home and government hospitals do not provide emergency obstetric care (EmOC). Methods: 2905 pregnancies were identified and followed to term to learn the number and types of complications, where these complications were treated, how many women received EmOC and how these services affected outcome. Results: Eighty‐five percent of 2861 deliveries after 24 weeks were at home. A total of 14.4% of deliveries after 24 weeks had identified complications. Of these complicated deliveries, 78.9% were in a hospital. Forty‐eight percent of hospital deliveries were in a private hospital, 35% in our project hospital and 18% in a government hospital. Hospitalized patients with obstetric complications constituted 11.4% of all deliveries. The cesarean section rate for all deliveries was 2.0%. Twenty‐two of the cesareans were in private hospitals, 32 in our hospital and four in a government hospital. Hospital case fatality (deaths of mothers with identified complications) was 0.3%. Overall case fatality was 0.5%. However, there were only two maternal deaths from obstetric causes (70 per 100 000 live births), making these rates less than robust. The perinatal mortality rate was 36 per thousand live and still births. These outcome and process indicators are better than those reported in most of India, but both maternal deaths could have been prevented by early referral to hospital and 64% of perinatal deaths were to infants delivered at home. Conclusions: A network of private clinics with a voluntary, low cost hospital is providing effective EmOC in a remote rural area at very low per capita cost in the absence of easily accessible government service and with only 15% of deliveries in hospitals. Charges are low but low per capita cost is primarily due to intelligent self‐selection of patients who need hospital care. Even though overall cost is low, cost is still an important barrier for many poor families. Improving the purchasing power of poor families through insurance or subsidy could be a more effective way to improve EmOC than trying to improve inadequate government facilities.
Antiphospholipid antibodies and lipoprotein (a) in women with recurrent fetal loss
Authors: Szczepański M. , Bauer A. , Gardas A. , Duchiński T.
Published: July 2002

Objective: To estimate the occurrence of lupus anticoagulant, both isotypes of anticardiolipins, IgG and IgM, and lipoprotein (a) in women with recurrent fetal loss. Method: 43 women with two or more fetal losses were included in this open, prospective study. They were divided into a group of 32 nullipara who have had only miscarriages and a group of 11 women who besides the fetal losses were able to give birth to at least one live newborn. Two control groups were also added: 35 women who were never pregnant and 15 parous who did not have any miscarriage. The presence of lupus anticoagulant was assessed by the Staclot LA clotting test. IgG and IgM isotypes of anticardiolipins and lipoprotein (a) were determined using the immunoenzymatic methods. Results: Lupus anticoagulant was discovered in only one of 23 examined patients. Abnormally high values of IgG isotype of anticardiolipins were found in two subjects of each control group and in two nullipara with miscarriages only. The increased level of IgM isotype was noted in approx. 50% of patients with recurrent fetal loss, but at least one successful delivery and in control subjects who were never pregnant. In contrast, the frequency of the increased level of this antibody was diminished by half in the remaining two groups: women who delivered a live child (children) without any miscarriage and women who had only miscarriages. Elevated levels of lipoprotein (a) were found in approx. 30% of non‐pregnant control subjects and in the patients of both groups; the abnormally high concentration of this lipoprotein was encountered in only 13% of women who gave birth to live newborn(s) and did not have any miscarriage. Conclusion: Of all four determined variables, only abnormally high values of lipoprotein (a) may have some prognostic significance in women predisposed to the recurrent fetal loss.
Domestic violence and substance abuse
Authors: Bhatt R.V.
Published: July 2002

The females and children have been the victims of family violence in most societies and cultures. The use of tobacco, alcohol and narcotic drugs are responsible in aggravating the violence. Incidences of domestic violence is significantly higher in substance abusers than others. It is equally present in countries where the status of women is high. Education level and economic status does not affect the incidence of domestic violence. Therefore we must look at other factors which perpetuate domestic violence. It is time for governments, societies and thinking people to give serious thought on how to reduce domestic violence and bring sanity into the community. Tobacco, alcohol and narcotic drugs are well on their way to the ‘road of destruction’ and fragmentation of social fabric. The conscience of the world needs to be roused to prevent the march of substance abuse. In the words of the Nobel laureate poet Tagore, I must say, ‘into that heaven of freedom my father, let my country awake’.
The response of junctional complexes to induced desquamation in mouse bladder urothelium
Authors: Veranič Peter , Jezernik Kristijan
Published: July 2002

Summary— During desquamation, the cells of mouse urinary bladder epithelium undergo detachment. In this process we examined the disconnection of cell adhesion molecules. Two proteins of cell junctions were studied: ZO1 of tight junctions and desmoplakin of desmosomes. Desquamation was induced by intravesical injection of LPS, constant illumination of mouse for 96 h, application of a combination of stress hormones hydrocortisone and norepinephrine or by removal of calcium with EGTA. All the inducers caused penetration of lanthanum tracer through the tight junctions, indicating paracellular permeability. Dilatation of extracellular spaces between neighboring cells was seen whenever desquamation was induced in bladders containing urine. Desquamation of single cells as well as groups of cells was observed. Contrary to obvious disconnection of cell junctions, as a precondition for desquamation, the distribution of junctional proteins did not change either in urothelial tissue or in desquamated cells. This study demonstrates that all the inducers of desquamation cause first an extensive dysfunction of a blood urine barrier and after that an occasional mechanical disconnection of adhesive junctions which consequently leads to desquamation.
Basic fibroblast growth factor regulates expression of growth factors in rat epiphyseal chondrocytes
Authors: Shida Jun‐Ichi , Jingushi Seiya , Izumi Toshihiro , Ikenoue Takashi , Iwamoto Yukihide
Published: July 2002

Chondrocytes produce several local regulatory factors such as basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) and insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I). In this study, we examined the effect of bFGF on the expressions of both mRNA and protein of the growth factors synthesized by chondrocytes. Treatment of chondrocytes with bFGF (1–100 ng/ml) stimulated the mRNA expression of bFGF and TGF‐β up to 121–604% and 130–220% at 12 h compared with the controls, respectively. On the other hand, the treatment of chondrocytes with bFGF (1–100 ng/ml) suppressed IGF‐I mRNA expression to 79–47% at 12 h compared with the controls. An enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) revealed that the treatment of chondrocytes with bFGF (1–100 ng/ml) also enhanced the production of TGF‐β1 proteins in the chondrocytes up to 299–508% at 24 h compared with controls. We conclude that bFGF influenced the local expression of growth factors by chondrocytes, suggesting autoregulation of growth factor expression during chondrogenesis. © 2001 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Autonomic innervation of tendons, ligaments and joint capsules. A morphologic and quantitative study in the rat
Authors: Ackermann Paul W. , Li Jian , Finn Anja , Ahmed Mahmood , Kreicbergs Andris
Published: July 2002

We analyzed the neuronal occurrence of autonomic transmitters; noradrenaline (NA), neuropeptide Y (NPY) and vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP), in the Achilles tendon, medial and lateral collateral ligaments and knee joint capsule in the rat — by immunohistochemistry (IHC). In addition, the tissue concentrations of the sympathetic neuropeptide, NPY, and the parasympathetic peptide, VIP, were determined by radioimmunoassay (RIA). IHC demonstrated nerve fibers containing sympathetic vasoconstrictors — NA and NPY‐ and the parasympathetic vasodilator, VIP, in all tissues. NPY‐ and NA‐positive nerve fibers were predominantly observed in larger blood vessels, whereas, nerve fibers immunoreactive to VIP were found in smaller vessels. In many nerve fibers a co‐localization of the transmitters was seen. RIA showed that the concentration of NPY compared to VIP was 15‐times higher in ligaments and twice as high in tendons and capsules. The differences noted may reflect a difference in vulnerability to degenerative conditions. In pathological conditions, dysregulation of autonomic transmitters in hypovascularized tissues subjected to repetitive mechanical load may contribute to tissue hypoxia leading to degeneration and rupture of tendons and ligaments. © 2001 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Implication of nmda type glutamate receptors in neural regeneration and neoformation of synapses after excitotoxic injury in the guinea pig cochlea
Authors: d'Aldin C.G. , Ruel J. , Assié R. , Pujol R. , Puel J.‐L.
Published: July 2002

In the adult mammalian cochlea, the ability of nerve fibres to regenerate has been observed following disruption of the organ of Corti by various means, or transsection of the cochlear nerve in the internal auditory meatus. Based upon the implication of glutamate as a neurotransmitter at synapses between sensory hair cells and terminal dendrites of the auditory nerve in the mammalian cochlea, we have developed, in a previous study, an in vivo model of neural regeneration and formation of synapses after the destruction of the afferent nerve endings by local application of the glutamate agonist α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐isoxazol‐propionic acid (AMPA). In situ hybridization experiments performed during the re‐innervation process revealed an overexpression of mRNA coding for NR1 subunit of N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the spiral ganglion neurons, suggesting that these receptors are implicated in neural regenerative processes. The present study has been designed to study the functional implication of NMDA receptors in the regrowth and synaptic repair of auditory dendrites in the guinea pig cochlea, by blocking the NMDA receptors during the period of normal functional recovery. In a first set of experiments, we recorded compound action potential after acute perilymphatic perfusion of cumulative doses (0.03–10 mM) of dl 2‐amino‐5‐phosphonovalerate (d‐AP5), a NMDA antagonist, to determine the efficiency of the drug. In a second set of experiments, the auditory dendrites were destroyed by local application of the glutamate agonist AMPA. The blockage of NMDA by the antagonist d‐AP5 applied with an osmotic micropump delayed the functional recovery and the regrowth of auditory dendrites. The findings of our study support the hypothesis that, in addition to acting as a fast transmitter, glutamate has a neurotrophic role via the activation of NMDA receptors.
Addition of a frequency-weighted score to the Behavioral Pathology in Alzheimer’s Disease Rating Scale: the BEHAVE-AD-FW: methodology and reliability
Authors: Monteiro I.M. , Boksay I. , Auer S.R. , Torossian C. , Ferris S.H. , Reisberg B.
Published: July 2002

The Behavioral Pathology in Alzheimer’s Disease Rating Scale (BEHAVE-AD) is a well-established instrument, designed to assess potentially remediable behavioral symptoms in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients as well as to evaluate treatment outcome. It consists of 25 symptoms grouped into seven categories. Each symptom is scored on the basis of severity on a four-point scale. A knowledgeable caregiver is queried and items are scored on the basis of symptoms noted in the preceding two weeks. Reliability, construct validity and criterion validity data for the BEHAVE-AD have previously been published. Because of the significance of psychopathology in dementia, it is necessary to optimally describe and define the nature, magnitude and prevalence of behavioral symptomalogy. Accordingly, a frequency component was added to each of the 25 items of the BEHAVE-AD scale. The objective of the present report is to describe this new Behavioral Pathology in Alzheimer’s Disease Frequency-Weighted Severity Scale (BEHAVE-AD-FW) and to establish its inter-rater reliability. In this investigation the BEHAVE-AD-FW scale was administered to caregivers of 28 patients with either mildly impaired cognitive function or a dementia diagnosis. Two clinicians separately and independently rated the responses. Analyses determined that the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) for the frequency component varied between 0.86 and 0.97 for each of the seven BEHAVE-AD categories (ps < 0.001). ICCs for the frequency-weighted scores (item severity score x item frequency score) ranged from 0.69 to 0.98 for the seven symptom categories (ps < 0.001). For the BEHAVE-AD-FW total scores, the ICC was 0.91 (P < 0.001). These results indicate that the frequency-weighted component is a reliable addition to the BEHAVE-AD scale.
Huntington's disease: a review of the literature on prevalence and treatment of neuropsychiatric phenomena
Authors: Naarding P. , Kremer H.P.H. , Zitman F.G.
Published: July 2002

A review was made of the literature on Huntington’s disease, including the clinical neurology, recent advances in pathophysiology and genetic mechanisms and psychopathology. It can be concluded that research on the latter is scarce, although the subject is relevant because of the co-occurrence of psychiatric, neurological and genetic phenomena, which may lead to novel concepts in the understanding of brain function. So far, attempts to provide a comprehensive and pragmatic description of the psychopathology of Huntington’s disease have been disappointing, probably due to the limitations of the DSM classification system in this disorder. Future research should focus not only on this classification system, but also on neuropsychological functioning, because of the degenerative nature of the disease. Systematic and controlled studies should be performed on the treatment of psychiatric abnormalities in Huntington’s disease before any conclusions can be drawn.
Dissociative Identity Disorder: diagnosis and treatment in the Netherlands
Authors: Sno H.N. , Schalken H.F.A.
Published: July 2002

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) is a controversial diagnosis and empirical data on the efficacy of treatment modalities are scanty. The objective of this study was to explore the frequency of the diagnosis, the types and efficacy of prevailing treatment practices, and to examine demographic data on patients in the Netherlands.

A questionnaire, including questions on one selected DID patient, was mailed to 1,452 Dutch psychiatrists. The response rate was 46.7%. A total of 273 psychiatrists reported having made the diagnosis at least once. The diagnosis was made in a statistically significant manner more frequently by female psychiatrists, by psychiatrists aged 50 years or younger, and by those certified after 1982. No correlation was observed with primary theoretical orientation or the type or topography of work facility.

The mean age of the selected patients was 33.2 and the male:female (M:F) ratio 1:9. The majority of patients were seen once a week in an outpatient setting. Individual psychotherapy and adjunctive anxiolytic or antidepressant medications were the most widely endorsed treatment modalities. Hypnosis was rarely used.

We conclude that the diagnosis of DID is not to be dismissed as a local eccentricity. It is warranted as an explanatory framework in the context of a psychotherapeutic treatment.
The role of spontaneity and state initiative in China’s shareholding system reform
Authors: Ma Shu-Yun
Published: July 2002

This article examines the relative importance of spontaneity and state initiative in economic transformation, using China’s shareholding system reform as case study. Two contrasting images of the Chinese state are identified: the strong state perspective sees the state as providing the basic impetus for change, whereas the weak state perspective emphasizes the role of spontaneous attempt. Based on fieldwork conducted in Foshan, where China’s first industrial shareholding enterprise emerged, we argue that although the Chinese state has been dysfunctional in some aspects, particularly at the local level, it has been strong enough to play a developmental role. The basic momentum of change has come mainly from the central government. Local authorities have helped implement the central policy, though with some distortions. Early spontaneous attempts have not played any significant role in defining the final reform program. It is the strong state perspective that holds.
Population pharmacokinetic analysis of pegylated interferon alfa‐2b and interferon alfa‐2b in patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Jen J. Frank , Glue Paul , Ezzet Farkad , Chung Carol , Gupta Samir K. , Jacobs Sheila , Hajian Gerald
Published: July 2002

Background

This study quantified pharmacokinetic changes in pegylated and nonpegylated interferon alfa‐2b during 48 weeks of treatment and the influences of covariates on the basis of sparsely sampled serum concentrations and activity values. Possible relationships between pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic variables were investigated.

Methods

Patients with chronic hepatitis C were enrolled in a clinical trial that compared the efficacy of pegylated interferon alfa‐2b with interferon alfa‐2b. Single blood samples were obtained from each patient at weeks 4, 12, 24, 36, and 48. Three pharmacostatistical models were developed for 2 immunoassays and 1 bioassay.

Results

Apparent clearance values of pegylated interferon alfa‐2b and interferon alfa‐2b at the end of treatment declined 33.7% and 80.0%, respectively, from their week 4 values. Bioactivity increased 41% to 58% at week 48 for different treatment groups. Changes were greatest in the first weeks of administration and diminished during the subsequent months. Body weight had a modest positive effect on clearance values and activity. Within each dose level, no significant associations were observed between pharmacokinetic variables and any pharmacodynamic variables (hepatitis C virus–RNA responses or changes in neutrophils and platelets).

Conclusions

This analysis confirms earlier observations of progressive pharmacokinetic changes in the patients with hepatitis C during 48 weeks of treatment. The absence of a relationship between toxicity or efficacy variables and interferon concentration or activity (within a dose level) suggests that clinical management of patients (eg, for efficacy or to manage toxicity) should be based on clinically derived dosing guidelines rather than on serum concentration or activity criteria.

Clinical Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2001) 69, 407–421; doi: 10.1067/mcp.2001.115872
NaTi2(PO4)3 Solid‐State Electrolyte Protection Layer on Zn Metal Anode for Superior Long‐Life Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Mengke , Cai Jinyan , Ao Huaisheng , Hou Zhiguo , Zhu Yongchun , Qian Yitai
Published: September 2020

A fast ion conductor, NaTi2(PO4)3 (NTP), is hydrothermally synthesized as a solid‐state electrolyte protection layer on the surface of Zn anodes (NTP@Zn). NTP has fast ionic conductivity compared with other insoluble phosphates, such as TiP2O7 (TPO) and Zn3(PO4)2 (ZPO), which is demonstrated by the density‐functional theory calculation and cyclic voltammetry tests. X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer, X‐ray powder diffraction, and HRTEM analyses show that the internal transport/mobility of Zn2+ can be achieved in NTP layer as an “ion passable fence.” The NTP layer with a thickness of 20–25 µm not only prevents side reactions and zinc dendrites, but also improves the reversibility of Zn deposition and electrochemical performance. The NTP@Zn/MnO2 battery represents the best long‐life performance among Zn/MnO2 batteries to date, which successfully retains a considerable capacity of 105 mA h g−1 with a CE nearly 100% after 10 000 charge/discharge cycles at 10 C (≈1.5 A g−1). Each cycle capacity attenuation rate is only 0.004%. This work represents an advanced step toward long‐life Zn metal anodes for aqueous zinc‐ion batteries.
Conductive Polymer Work Function Changes due to Residual Water: Impact of Temperature‐Dependent Dielectric Constant
Authors: Mansour Ahmed E. , Kim Hongwon , Park Soohyung , Schultz Thorsten , Cao David Xi , Nguyen Thuc‐Quyen , Brütting Wolfgang , Opitz Andreas , Koch Norbert
Published: September 2020

Solution‐processed conducting polymer thin films are key components in organic and flexible electronic and optoelectronic devices. An archetypal conducting polymer is poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)‐poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), which can feature a high work function and thus helps achieving Ohmic contacts for holes with many semiconductors. However, it is known that residual water in PEDOT:PSS films lowers their work function and is detrimental for device lifetime. Our photoelectron spectroscopy experiments reveal that the work function of PEDOT:PSS films containing residual water shows the same trend as function of temperature as does the dielectric constant (ε) of water, in the range between 25 °C and ‐100 °C. Consistently, it is found from impedance spectroscopy measurements that ε of residual water containing PEDOT:PSS films increases with decreasing temperature. After removal of residual water from PEDOT:PSS films by annealing in ultrahigh vacuum, the work function of thin films is much higher than before (reaching 6.1 eV) and, notably, independent of temperature. In contrast, no indication is found that the presence of residual water has any impact on the electrical conductivity. For a nominally water‐free molecularly doped conjugated donor/acceptor copolymer films, a correlation between sample work function and temperature similar to those seen for PEDOT:PSS is found.
Optimal operation and tracking control of vapor‐recompressed batch distillation
Authors: Vibhute Madhuri M. , Jogwar Sujit S.
Published: September 2020

Vapor recompressed batch distillation (VRBD) is an energy‐integrated configuration which works on the principle of a heat pump. Operation of such a column is challenging due to unsteady, nonlinear dynamics and strong interplay between separation and energy efficiency. In this paper, a two‐step approach is proposed for optimal operation and control of such a column. Initially, an openloop optimal operation policy is generated for maximization of an overall performance index using offline optimization. To this end, three performance indices are proposed to capture interplay between separation and energy efficiency. Subsequently, a model‐based output feedback controller is designed to track this optimal performance trajectory. The effectiveness of the proposed approach is demonstrated using a benzene‐toluene separation case study wherein it is shown that the proposed approach helps to achieve optimal operation in the presence of operational disturbances.
Effect of birth season on anthropometrics and diseases of bone mineralization in the US population
Authors: Bollen Anne‐Marie , Hujoel Philippe P.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

Birth season has been inconsistently associated with anthropometrics, bone fractures, and malocclusion. Our aim was to assess the association between birth season and anthropometrics (height, weight, birth weight), bone fractures and dental malocclusion in the United States.

Methods

US surveys conducted between 1963‐1973 assessed 16 152 6‐to‐21‐year‐old participants. Prevalence ratios and mean differences were estimated using linear models using fall as reference.

Results

Participants born in spring, when compared to fall, were of similar height (mean difference (MD) in height‐adjusted Z score 0.03, 95% Confidence Interval (CI): −0.01 to 0.08; P‐value = .17), weight (MD for weight‐adjusted Z‐score 0.00, 95% CI: −0.05 to 0.04; P‐value =0.83), had similar rates of bone fractures (Prevalence Rate [PR] 1.07; 95% CI: 0.94 to 1.22; P‐value = .28) and similar rates of dental malocclusion (MD of malocclusion index HLD −0.16; 95% confidence interval − 0.39 to 0.07; P = .18).

Conclusion

We did not find an impact of birth season on anthropometrics, bone fractures, and dental malocclusions.
Musculoskeletal pain amongst Australian sonography students and recent graduates and an evaluation of the use of ergonomic education for prevention
Authors: Bonutto Natalie , Kennedy Narelle , Quinton Ann
Published: September 2020

Introduction/Purpose

Sonographers develop pain whilst scanning and may not consistently adhere to ergonomic recommendations. The aim was to quantify this within Australian sonography students and recent graduates and to determine whether a relationship exists between: (i) pain and failure to adhere to ergonomic recommendations; and (ii) theoretical and practical ergonomic education during university and clinical placement, and the adherence to recommendations.

Methods

Online questionnaire distributed to Australian student sonographers and sonographers until two years post‐graduation.

Results

During scanning, 33/39(84.62%) experienced musculoskeletal pain, and 21/33 (63.64%) experienced pain less than 1.76 full‐time equivalent (FTE) days during the two FTE week period. The majority, 37/39 (94.87%), were not consistently adhering to recommendations, with 25/37 (67.57%) only doing so for less than 2.1 FTE days during two FTE weeks. Failure to adhere to ergonomic recommendations and development of musculoskeletal scanning pain was positively correlated (r = 0.7 (P = 0.01)).

All participants had received some form of ergonomic education. This education was theoretical and practical during university and clinical placement for 24/39 (61.54%); however, receiving this resulted in no difference for adherence to ergonomic recommendations. Qualitative data demonstrated high workloads, scanning patients with increased body habitus or limited mobility were potential barriers to adherence to ergonomic recommendations.

Discussion

Ergonomic education occurs, yet a lack of knowledge and adherence to recommendations continues. Considerations for other potential barriers are required.

Conclusion

Ensuring students adhere to ergonomic recommendations post‐graduation and identifying relevant barriers within the clinical environment are important. Future research to investigate potential barriers around ergonomic adherence is suggested.
Clinical Features and Risk of Relapse in Children and Adults with Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibody–Associated Disease
Authors: Cobo‐Calvo Alvaro , Ruiz Anne , Rollot Fabien , Arrambide Georgina , Deschamps Romain , Maillart Elisabeth , Papeix Caroline , Audoin Bertrand , Lépine Anne Fabienne , Maurey Hélène , Zephir Helene , Biotti Damien , Ciron Jonathan , Durand‐Dubief Francoise , Collongues Nicolas , Ayrignac Xavier , Labauge Pierre , Meyer Pierre , Thouvenot Eric , Bourre Bertrand , Montcuquet Alexis , Cohen Mikael , Horello Philippe , Tintoré Mar , De Seze Jerome , Vukusic Sandra , Deiva Kumaran , Marignier Romain ,   the NOMADMUS, KidBioSEP, and OFSEP study groups
Published: September 2020

Objective

The main objective was to compare clinical features, disease course, and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody (Ab) dynamics between children and adults with MOG‐Ab–associated disease (MOGAD).

Methods

This retrospective multicentric, national study included 98 children and 268 adults with MOGAD between January 2014 and September 2019. Cox regression model for recurrent time‐to‐event data and Kaplan–Meier curves for time to antibody negativity were performed for the objectives.

Results

Isolated optic neuritis was the most frequent clinical presentation in both children (40.8%) and adults (55.9%, p = 0.013), and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis syndrome was more frequent in children (36.7% vs 5.6%, p < 0.001). Compared to adults, children displayed better recovery (Expanded Disability Status Scale ≥ 3.0 at last follow‐up reached only by 10 of 97 [10.3%] vs 66/247 [26.7%], p < 0.001). In the multivariate analysis, adults were at higher risk of relapse than children (hazard ratio = 1.41, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.12–1.78, p = 0.003). At 2 years, 64.2% (95% CI = 40.9–86.5) of nonrelapsing children became MOG‐Ab negative compared to 14.1% (95% CI = 4.7–38.3) of relapsing children (log‐rank p < 0.001), with no differences observed in adults (log‐rank p = 0.280).

Interpretation

MOGAD patients differ in the clinical presentation at onset, showing an age‐related shift in the clinical features across age groups. Compared to children, adults have a higher risk of relapse and worse functional recovery. Finally, children with monophasic disease become MOG‐Ab negative earlier than relapsing children, but this is not true in adults. Considering these differences, management and treatment guidelines should be considered independently in children and adults. ANN NEUROL 2021;89:30–41
Hypersensitivity to Calcitonin Gene–Related Peptide in Post‐Traumatic Headache
Authors: Ashina Håkan , Iljazi Afrim , Al‐Khazali Haidar M. , Christensen Casper E. , Amin Faisal M. , Ashina Messoud , Schytz Henrik W.
Published: September 2020

Objective

To demonstrate that calcitonin gene–related peptide (CGRP) induces headache exacerbation with migraine‐like features in patients with persistent post‐traumatic headache (PTH) attributed to mild traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, two‐way crossover study was conducted. Analyses were intention‐to‐treat. Eligible patients were aged 18 to 65 years and had a history of persistent PTH after mild TBI for at least 12 months. Patients were randomized to receive an intravenous infusion of 1.5μg/min of CGRP or placebo (isotonic saline) over 20 minutes on two separate experimental days. A 12‐hour observational period was used to evaluate the following outcomes: (1) difference in incidence of headache exacerbation with migraine‐like features and (2) difference in area under the curve for headache intensity scores.

Results

Thirty patients (mean age = 37 years, 25 women [83%]) were randomized and completed the study. During the 12‐hour observational period, 21 of 30 patients (70%) developed headache exacerbation with migraine‐like features after CGRP, compared with 6 patients (20%) after placebo (p < 0.001). The baseline‐corrected area under the curve for headache intensity scores was significantly larger after CGRP, compared with placebo (p < 0.001).

Interpretation

Patients with persistent PTH are hypersensitive to CGRP, which underscores its pathophysiological importance. Furthermore, CGRP‐targeted therapies might provide a novel mechanism‐based treatment option for patients with persistent PTH. ANN NEUROL 2020;88:1220–1228
Frustrated Lewis Pair Chelation as a Vehicle for Low‐Temperature Semiconductor Element and Polymer Deposition
Authors: Omaña Alvaro A. , Green Rachel K. , Kobayashi Ryo , He Yingjie , Antoniuk Evan R. , Ferguson Michael J. , Zhou Yuqiao , Veinot Jonathan G. C. , Iwamoto Takeaki , Brown Alex , Rivard Eric
Published: September 2020

The stabilization of silicon(II) and germanium(II) dihydrides by an intramolecular Frustrated Lewis Pair (FLP) ligand, PB, iPr2P(C6H4)BCy2 (Cy=cyclohexyl) is reported. The resulting hydride complexes [PB{SiH2}] and [PB{GeH2}] are indefinitely stable at room temperature, yet can deposit films of silicon and germanium, respectively, upon mild thermolysis in solution. Hallmarks of this work include: 1) the ability to recycle the FLP phosphine‐borane ligand (PB) after element deposition, and 2) the single‐source precursor [PB{SiH2}] deposits Si films at a record low temperature from solution (110 °C). The dialkylsilicon(II) adduct [PB{SiMe2}] was also prepared, and shown to release poly(dimethylsilane) [SiMe2]n upon heating. Overall, this study introduces a “closed loop” deposition strategy for semiconductors that steers materials science away from the use of harsh reagents or high temperatures.
Optimization of the thermal mending process in epoxy/cyclic olefin copolymer blends
Authors: Dorigato Andrea , Mahmood Haroon , Pegoretti Alessandro
Published: September 2020

Cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) is utilized as thermoplastic healing agent in an epoxy resin and the effect of mending temperature on the healing of resulting materials is investigated. Blends are prepared by adding 20 and 30 wt% COC powder in the epoxy resin. They are thermo‐mechanically characterized and fractured samples are thermally mended at various temperatures to evaluate the healing efficiency of the repaired samples. Optical microscopy reveals a homogenous dispersion of COC domains within epoxy matrix, while thermogravimetric analysis shows improved thermal stability of the samples. The immiscibility of the two phases in the blends lead to a decrease of the mechanical properties under flexural and tensile loading modes with respect to neat epoxy. The fracture toughness increases upon COC addition at elevated amounts. Healing efficiency values up to more than 80% are obtained at the lowest investigated temperature of 145°C for samples with 30 wt% of COC.
A venom protein, Kazal‐type serine protease inhibitor, of ectoparasitoid Pachycrepoideus vindemiae inhibits the hemolymph melanization of host Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Yang Lei , Qiu Li‐Ming , Fang Qi , Ye Gong‐Yin
Published: September 2020

Parasitic wasps inject various virulence factors into the host insects while laying eggs, among which the venom proteins, one of the key players in host insect/parasitoid relationships, act in host cellular and humoral immune regulation to ensure successful development of wasp progeny. Although the investigations into actions of venom proteins are relatively ample in larval parasitoids, their regulatory mechanisms have not been thoroughly understood in pupal parasitoids. Here, we identified a venom protein, Kazal‐type serine protease inhibitor, in the pupal ectoparasitoid Pachycrepoideus vindemiae (PvKazal). Sequence analysis revealed that PvKazal is packed by a signal peptide and a highly conserved “Kazal” domain. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis recorded a higher transcript level of PvKazal in the venom apparatus relative to that in the carcass, and the PvKazal messenger RNA level appeared to reach a peak on day 5 posteclosion. Recombinant PvKazal strongly inhibited the hemolymph melanization of host Drosophila melanogaster. Additionally, the heterologous expression of PvKazal in transgenic Drosophila reduced the crystal cell numbers and blocked the melanization of host pupal hemolymph. Our present work underlying the roles of PvKazal undoubtedly increases the understanding of venom‐mediated host‐parasitoid crosstalk.
Evaluation of the biodegradability of fluorescent dissolved organic matter via biological filtration
Authors: Vines Melanie , Terry Leigh G.
Published: September 2020

Fluorescence spectroscopy to evaluate the removal of dissolved organic matter (DOM) via biofiltration under varying operational and water quality conditions was investigated in this study. Three feedwaters (lake, river, and wastewater effluent) were examined at three temperatures (6, 22, and 28 °C) and three empty bed contact times (EBCTs; 5, 15, and 30 min) to simulate seasonal and operational variations experienced by utilities. Parallel factor (PARAFAC) analysis was used to characterize the fluorescing DOM and to determine the component removal. Three components were found in the lake and river feedwaters, and four components were found in the wastewater effluent. In natural source waters, protein‐like components were removed most effectively via biofiltration. In the wastewater effluent, a humic‐like component common in nutrient‐rich waters was removed most effectively, and the protein‐like component was removed second most effectively. Increased EBCT and temperature increased the removal efficiency of bulk DOM and the protein‐like components.
Architecture Transformations of Ultrahigh Areal Capacity Air Cathodes for Lithium‐Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Greenburg Louisa C. , Plaza‐Rivera Christian O. , Kim Jae‐Woo , Connell John W. , Lin Yi
Published: September 2020

Lithium‐oxygen (Li−O2) batteries have the highest known theoretical energy density but are still not practical for use in most applications. A key aspect that has been largely overlooked in the field is how to improve the reversible areal capacity of the air cathode to a competitive level (>5–10 mAh cm−2). For carbon‐based air cathodes, increase of areal capacity requires a corresponding increase of carbon mass loading. As a result, the electrode thickness also increases which impedes the mass transport of Li ions and O2 needed for battery reactions. It is therefore imperative to investigate not only the air cathode composition, but also its dimensional architecture, for the effective function of high areal capacity Li−O2 batteries. Herein, we present the use of several representative additives of carbon‐based nanomaterials, including carbon black, two different diameters of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes, and graphene materials from two sources, into a high mass loading (10 mg cm−2), ultrathick (∼100 μm) air cathode architectural platform matrix based on dry‐compressed holey graphene. The performances of these all‐carbon composite air cathodes differ from that of the neat holey graphene, but not by a simple addition or subtraction effect. In addition, the additive effects to full discharge and curtailed cycling experiments are significantly different. The presented results strongly suggest that the architectural volume expandability is critical for the full discharge properties. However, the cycling performance depends more upon the resilience of the air cathode architecture (“breathability”), which does not necessarily correlate with its expandability.
Constant‐wavelength synchronous fluorescence spectrometry for simultaneous and rapid determination of five polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon residues in dairy products
Authors: Cai Qihong , Zhao Chengfei , Zhu Hang , Shen Yiping , Hou Huiqing , Tang Yaoji
Published: September 2020

A new method for simultaneously determining five polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) (fluorene, benzofluorene, pyrene, benzo(a)pyrene, and perylene) in dairy products using constant‐wavelength synchronous fluorescence spectrometry (CWSFS) was established in this study. Acetonitrile was chosen as the extraction solvent to extract the five PAHs from the dairy products, and an ultrasound extraction method was adopted. The supernatants were filtered using a 0.45‐μm microporous filter membrane and concentrated to dryness with a nitrogen dryer. The extracts were then re‐dissolved in cyclohexane for analysis. To overcome interference from the background matrix and between PAHs, the difference in wavelength (Δλ) at 40 nm was chosen for CWSFS scanning. With only one single scan, the five PAHs in dairy products could be distinguished and determined using the standard curve method without the need for previous chromatographic separation of the analyte solution. Detection limits of fluorene, benzofluorene, pyrene, benzo(a)pyrene, and perylene were 0.0051 μg·L−1, 0.016 μg·L−1, 0.021 μg·L−1, 0.0056 μg·L−1, and 0.0062 μg·L−1, respectively. Recoveries were between 85.60% and 98.42%. These five PAHs in dairy products were determined with good results and therefore expected to be a routine detection method for PAHs in dairy products.