bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blei und seine Verbindungen – Bestimmung vonδ‐Aminolävulinsäure in Urin mittels HPLC‐Fluoreszenzdetektion [Biomonitoring Methods in German language, 2018]
Authors: Göen T. , Weißflog L. , Blaszkewicz M. , Baumhoer G. , Schettgen T. , Dewes P. , Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: October 2018

The working group “Analyses in Biological Materials” of the Permanent Senate Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area verified the presented biomonitoring method.

The method described hereinafter permits the determination ofδ‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA) in urine as a biological marker of effect to assess exposure to lead. An indicator of such exposure is the increased urinary excretion of ALA caused by lead‐induced inhibition of the enzymeδ‐aminolevulinic acid dehydratase. The determination of ALA in urine is based on a condensation reaction of ALA with formaldehyde and acetylacetone yielding a pyrrolizine derivate, which can be sensitively detected using fluorescence detection. 6‐Amino‐5‐oxohexanoic acid is used as an internal standard. Calibration standards are prepared in pooled urine and processed in the same way as the samples to be analysed.

The method was extensively validated and the reliability data were confirmed by two independent laboratories, which have established and cross‐checked the whole procedure.
Trimethylamine [MAK Value Documentation, 2018]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: October 2018

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has evaluated a momentary value for trimethylamine [
75‐50‐3
].

Critical effect is the irritation of the respiratory epithelia in the nose of rats and a maximum concentration at the workplace (MAK value) of 2 ml/m
3
has been set. This value was established by analogy with cyclohexylamine. In addition to the MAK value, a momentary value of 5 ml/m
3
for cyclohexylamine has been established which must not be exceeded at any time to prevent from local irritation. Therefore, a momentary value of 5 ml/m
3
is also set for N,N‐trimethylamine.
tert
‐Butyl alcohol [MAK Value Documentation, 2018]
Authors: Hartwig A. ,   MAK Commission
Published: October 2018

The German Commission for the Investigation of Health Hazards of Chemical Compounds in the Work Area has re‐evaluated the Pregnancy Risk Group of tert‐butyl alcohol [
75‐65‐0
].

In rats, fetal weights were reduced at 2000 ml/m
3
, the LOAEC for developmental toxicity after inhalation. A 95% lower confidence limit of the benchmark dose for developmental toxicity of 1600 ml/m
3
was calculated. After now considering the increased respiratory volume at the workplace (see List of MAK and BAT Values, Sections I b and I c) this concentration corresponds to 800 ml/m
3
at the workplace. The difference to the MAK value of 20 ml/m
3
is still sufficient so that damage to the embryo or foetus is unlikely when the MAK value is observed. tert‐Butyl alcohol remains assigned to Pregnancy Risk Group C.

In a screening study based on OECD guideline 421 the NOAEL for fetotoxicity is 400 mg/kg body weight and day in rats. After toxicokinetic scaling this dose corresponds to a concentration of 230 ml/m
3
at the workplace. The difference between the NOAEL for fetotoxicity for rats and the MAK value of 20 ml/m
3
confirms the assignment to Pregnancy Risk Group C.

For mice, no NOAEL for developmental toxicity was obtained. At the LOAEL for developmental toxicity after gavage of 1600 mg/kg body weight and day, increased numbers of resorptions and reduced litter size, but no malformations occurred. After toxicokinetic scaling this dose corresponds to a concentration of 520 ml/m
3
at the workplace. The difference between the LOAEL for developmental toxicity for mice and the MAK value does not contradict the retention of the assignment to Pregnancy Risk Group C, particularly as a bolus administration (gavage) is considered to be a worst case compared with a continuous exposure at the workplace.
Cone‐Beam CT image contrast and attenuation‐map linearity improvement (CALI) for brain stereotactic radiosurgery procedures
Authors: Hashemi SayedMasoud , Huynh Christopher , Sahgal Arjun , Song William Y. , Nordström Håkan , Eriksson Markus , Mainprize James G. , Lee Young , Ruschin Mark
Published: October 2018

A Contrast and Attenuation‐map Linearity Improvement (CALI) framework is proposed for cone‐beam CT (CBCT) images used for brain stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). The proposed framework is tailored to improve soft tissue contrast of a new point‐of‐care image‐guided SRS system that employs a challenging half cone beam geometry, but can be readily reproduced on any CBCT platform. CALI includes a pre‐ and post‐processing step. In pre‐processing we apply a shading and beam hardening artifact correction to the projections, and in post‐processing step we correct the dome/capping artifact on reconstructed images caused by the spatial variations in X‐ray energy generated by the bowtie‐filter. The shading reduction together with the beam hardening and dome artifact correction algorithms aim to improve the linearity and accuracy of the CT‐numbers (CT#). The CALI framework was evaluated using CatPhan to quantify linearity, contrast‐to‐noise (CNR), and CT# accuracy, as well as subjectively on patient images acquired on a clinical system. Linearity of the reconstructed attenuation‐map was improved from 0.80 to 0.95. The CT# mean absolute measurement error was reduced from 76.1 to 26.9 HU. The CNR of the acrylic insert in the sensitometry module was improved from 1.8 to 7.8. The resulting clinical brain images showed substantial improvements in soft tissue contrast visibility, revealing structures such as ventricles which were otherwise undetectable in the original clinical images obtained from the system. The proposed reconstruction framework also improved CT# accuracy compared to the original images acquired on the system. For frameless image‐guided SRS, improving soft tissue visibility can facilitate evaluation of MR to CBCT co‐registration. Moreover, more accurate CT# may enable the use of CBCT for daily dose delivery measurements.
A measurement of the attenuation of radiation from F‐18 by a PET/MR scanner
Authors: Wendt Richard E. , Ai Hua A. , Meier Joseph G. , Lopez Benjamin P. , Fahrenholtz Samuel J. , Mawlawi Osama R.
Published: October 2018

The attenuation of 511 keV photons by the structure of a PET/MR scanner was measured prior to energizing the magnet. The exposure rate from a source of fluorine‐18 was measured in air and, with the source placed at the isocenter of the instrument, at various points outside of the scanner. In an arc from 45 to 135 degrees relative to the long axis of the scanner and at a distance of 1.5 m from the isocenter, the attenuation by the scanner is at least 5.6 half‐value layers from the MR component alone and at least 6.6 half‐value layers with the PET insert installed. This information could inform better design of the radiation shielding for PET/MR scanners.
CSF TACI and BAFF levels in patients with primary CNS lymphoma as novel diagnostic biomarkers
Authors: Mizutani Hironori , Nakane Shunya , Ikeda Tokunori , Nakamura Hideo , Takamatsu Koutaro , Makino Keishi , Tawara Nozomu , Mukaino Akihiro , Watari Mari , Matsui Hirotaka , Mukasa Akitake , Ando Yukio
Published: October 2018

We used an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay to measure pretreatment B cell‐activating factor belonging to the tumour necrosis factor family (BAFF) and transmembrane activator and CAML‐interactor (TACI) levels in CSF and serum collected from patients with primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) and control groups. The decision tree analysis of CSF TACI and BAFF levels for patients with a PCNSL diagnosis showed 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity when we attempted to differentiate PCNSL from glioblastoma and CNS inflammatory diseases. The combination of CSF TACI and BAFF levels may thus be a novel and useful diagnostic biomarker of PCNSL.
No more prior authorization in Pennsylvania for MAT
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: October 2018

Several state agencies in Pennsylvania have helped to negotiate an agreement under which seven major insurers in the state will remove prior‐authorization barriers to the full array of medication‐assisted treatment (MAT) options for opioid dependence. Under the agreement announced this month, each insurer will expand plan members' access to methadone, at least one buprenorphine‐naloxone combination product and both the oral and injectable formulations of naltrexone, as well as at least one nasal formulation of naloxone for opioid overdose reversal.
Accreditation to be required by NAATP
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: October 2018

The National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP) has announced that as of Jan. 1, 2019, continued membership will require accreditation by a recognized accrediting body, and new members will be required to demonstrate accreditation. The NAATP board of directors and membership at large overwhelmingly approved this measure earlier this year, according to NAATP. Most of the 900 NAATP members are already accredited; those who are not will be granted provisional status and given two years to obtain accreditation.
Two‐Layered and Stretchable e‐Textile Patches for Wearable Healthcare Electronics
Authors: La Thanh‐Giang , Qiu Shide , Scott Dylan K. , Bakhtiari Reyhaneh , Kuziek Jonathan W. P. , Mathewson Kyle E. , Rieger Jana , Chung Hyun‐Joong
Published: October 2018

Wearable healthcare systems require skin‐adhering electrodes that allow maximal comfort for patients as well as an electronics system to enable signal processing and transmittance. Textile‐based electronics, known as “e‐textiles,” is a platform technology that allows comfort for patients. Here, two‐layered e‐textile patches are designed by controlled permeation of Ag‐particle/fluoropolymer composite ink into a porous textile. The permeated ink forms a cladding onto the nanofibers in the textile substrate, which is beneficial for mechanical and electrical properties of the e‐textile. The printed e‐textile features conductivity of ≈3200 S cm−1, whereas 1000 cycles of 30% uniaxial stretching causes the resistance to increase only by a factor of ≈5, which is acceptable in many applications. Controlling over the penetration depth enables a two‐layer design of the e‐textile, where the sensing electrodes and the conducting traces are printed in the opposite sides of the substrate. The formation of vertical interconnected access is remarkably simple as an injection from a syringe. With the custom‐developed electronic circuits, a surface electromyography system with wireless data transmission is demonstrated. Furthermore, the dry e‐textile patch collects electroencephalography with comparable signal quality to commercial gel electrodes. It is anticipated that the two‐layered e‐textiles will be effective in healthcare and sports applications.
A Review of Inorganic Hole Transport Materials for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kung Po‐Kai , Li Ming‐Hsien , Lin Pei‐Ying , Chiang Yu‐Hsien , Chan Chia‐Ru , Guo Tzung‐Fang , Chen Peter
Published: October 2018

This review presents various hole transport layers (HTLs) employed in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) in pursuing high power conversion efficiency (PCE) and functional stability. The PSCs have achieved high PCE (over 23%, certified by NREL) and more efforts have been devoted into research for stability enhancement. Inorganic HTLs become a popular choice as selective contact materials because of their intrinsic chemical stability and low cost. HTLs and electron transport layers (ETLs) are critical components of PSCs due to the requirement to create charge collection selectivity. Herein the authors provide an overview on inorganic HTLs synthesis, properties, and their application in various PSCs for both mesoporous and planar architectures. Inorganic HTLs with appropriate properties, such as proper energy level and high carrier mobility, can not only assist with charge transport, but also improve the stability of PSCs under ambient conditions. The importance of interfacial chemistry and interfacial charge transport is further addressed to understand the underlying mechanism of related degradation and carrier dynamic. It is expected that the success of the inorganic HTL in PSCs can stimulate further research and bring real impact for future photovoltaic technologies.
Hybrid Materials for Functional 3D Printing
Authors: Cooperstein Ido , Sachyani‐Keneth Ela , Shukrun‐Farrell Efrat , Rosental Tamar , Wang Xiaofeng , Kamyshny Alexander , Magdassi Shlomo
Published: October 2018

This review focuses on the development of hybrid materials based on inorganic–organic compositions with improved and new functionalities, and their utilization for 3D printing of various devices: magnetic materials, flexible and stretchable materials for conductive and shape‐memory devices, materials for photonics and optics, materials with enhanced mechanical properties, and dielectric and piezoelectric materials. Various methods of functional 3D printing are briefly discussed.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Reductive Coupling of Alkynes and Acrylates Bearing a Leaving Group: Construction of Cyclobutene Rings
Authors: Fujihara Tetsuaki , Kukita Susumu , Yagi Yuki , Kirihara Maho , Nogi Keisuke , Tsuji Yasushi
Published: October 2018

This study reports a cobalt‐catalyzed synthesis of cyclobutenes using alkynes and acrylates bearing a leaving group at the α position. The cyclobutene formation was facilitated by an appropriate proton source. In the presence of a Lewis acid, acetonitrile participated in the reaction, affording the corresponding functionalized cyclobutenes.
Development and characterization of EST‐SSR markers for Carex angustisquama (Cyperaceae), an extremophyte in solfatara fields
Authors: Nagasawa Koki , Setoguchi Hiroaki , Maki Masayuki , Goto Hayato , Fukushima Keitaro , Isagi Yuji , Sakaguchi Shota
Published: October 2018

Premise of the Study

Expressed sequence tag–simple sequence repeat (EST‐SSR) markers were developed for Carex angustisquama (Cyperaceae) to investigate the evolutionary history of this plant that is endemic to solfatara fields in northern Japan.

Methods and Results

Using RNA‐Seq data generated by the Illumina HiSeq 2000, 20 EST‐SSR markers were developed. Polymorphisms were assessed in C. angustisquama and the closely related species C. doenitzii and C. podogyna. In C. angustisquama, many loci were monomorphic within populations; the average number of alleles ranged from one to five, and levels of expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.000 to 0.580, while all markers were polymorphic in a population of C. doenitzii. This indicates that low genetic polymorphism of C. angustisquama is likely due to the species’ population dynamics, rather than to null alleles at the developed markers.

Conclusions

These markers will be used to assess genetic diversity and structure and to investigate evolutionary history in future studies of C. angustisquama and related species.
Synthesis of a New Robust Exponential Sliding Mode Differentiator with its Observer Applications
Authors: Deepika Deepika , Narayan Shiv , Kaur Sandeep
Published: October 2018

This paper proposes a new robust exponential sliding mode differentiator for estimating the (n − 1) derivatives of a non‐linear function. Finite time convergence, robustness, and exactness are also ensured analytically with the proposed methodology. In addition, the results of the proposed sliding mode differentiator are extended to derive theorems for the novel state (SO) and extended state observers (ESO), which would estimate the system states as well as uncertainties recursively in finite time. Finally, three examples are implemented to validate the proposed methodologies and the obtained simulations are compared with the previously developed methods in literature.
Asymmetric responses of the Philippine Sea anomalous anticyclone/cyclone to two types of El Niño–Southern Oscillation during the boreal winter
Authors: Feng Juan , Chen Wen , Wang Xiaocong
Published: October 2018

The Philippine Sea anomalous anticyclone/cyclone (abbreviated to PSAC/PSCC) induced by El Niño/La Niña is a key atmospheric circulation system that connects El Niño/La Niña to the East Asian climate. The asymmetry between PSAC and PSCC is analyzed after El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is divided into eastern Pacific (EP) ENSO and central Pacific (CP) ENSO. For EP ENSO, evident asymmetry exists between EP El Niño‐induced PSAC and EP La Niña‐induced PSCC, with the former being much stronger than the latter, caused by the nonlinearity of the convective anomalies over the western Pacific. Much stronger sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies for EP El Niño than for EP La Niña is responsible for this convective heating asymmetry.

However, the PSAC and PSCC associated with CP ENSO show much weaker asymmetry compared with those associated with EP ENSO, which is related to the nearly symmetric distribution and intensity of the tropical SST anomalies between CP El Niño and CP La Niña. The resultant almost symmetric anomalous Walker circulation and the comparable convective anomalies over the western Pacific produce weak asymmetric responses of PSAC and PSCC to CP El Niño and CP La Niña. Furthermore, numerical experiments also confirm that the asymmetry in the anomalous convective activity over the western Pacific associated with EP (CP) ENSO is the main reason for the asymmetry between PSAC and PSCC.
Bewertung von pseudo‐statischen Methoden zum Grundbruchwiderstand von Fundamenten unter seismischer Beanspruchung
Authors: Vrettos Christos , Seibel Elisabeth
Published: October 2018

Die gängige Methode zur Beurteilung der Grundbruchsicherheit von Fundamenten bei seismischer Beanspruchung basiert auf dem Ansatz von pseudo‐statischen Beschleunigungskräften, welche die Trägheitskräfte aus dem Überbau und im Boden repräsentieren. Die einzelnen Komponenten der klassischen dreigliedrigen Grundbruchgleichung in der DIN 4017 werden hierfür mit geeigneten Abminderungsfaktoren versehen. Ergebnisse hierzu aus neueren numerischen Studien werden zusammengestellt. Eine Alternative stellen kuppelförmige 3‐D‐Grenzfächen der Tragfähigkeit als Kombinationen von Vertikallast, Horizontallast und Biegemoment dar, die zum Versagen führen. Auch die DIN‐Gleichung kann in eine solche Grenzfläche umgewandelt werden. 3‐D‐Grenzflächen werden für den Fall eines rein kohäsiven und eines kohäsionslosen Bodens verglichen und bewertet. Ein weitverbreitetes FEM‐Programm mit einer Grenzbedingung nach Mohr‐Coulomb wird eingesetzt, um den Einfluss der Lastneigung und ‐exzentrizität sowie der Trägheitskräfte im Boden für typische Konfigurationen numerisch zu erfassen. Die Eignung der FEM als robuste Berechnungsmethode wird bestätigt, wobei alle Modellierungsdetails adäquat berücksichtigt werden müssen. Auf den Einfluss des Dilatanzwinkels wird gesondert eingegangen. Es wird gezeigt, dass die erweiterte Grundbruchgleichung für die praktische Anwendung sehr gut geeignet ist und zudem den Vorteil eines stetigen Übergangs vom statischen zum seismischen Lastfall bietet.
A population‐based case–control study of the association between weather‐related extreme heat events and orofacial clefts
Authors: Soim Aida , Sheridan Scott C. , Hwang Syni‐An , Hsu Wan‐Hsiang , Fisher Sarah C. , Shaw Gary M. , Feldkamp Marcia L. , Romitti Paul A. , Reefhuis Jennita , Langlois Peter H. , Browne Marilyn L. , Lin Shao ,   the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: October 2018

Background

Limited epidemiologic research exists on the association between weather‐related extreme heat events (EHEs) and orofacial clefts (OFCs). We estimated the associations between maternal exposure to EHEs in the summer season and OFCs in offspring and investigated the potential modifying effect of body mass index on these associations.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based case–control study among mothers who participated in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study for whom at least 1 day of their first two post‐conception months occurred during summer. Cases were live‐born infants, stillbirths, and induced terminations with OFCs; controls were live‐born infants without major birth defects. We defined EHEs using the 95th and the 90th percentiles of the daily maximum universal apparent temperature distribution. We used unconditional logistic regression with Firth's penalized likelihood method to estimate adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, controlling for maternal sociodemographic and anthropometric variables.

Results

We observed no association between maternal exposure to EHEs and OFCs overall, although prolonged duration of EHEs may increase the risk of OFCs in some study sites located in the Southeast climate region. Analyses by subtypes of OFCs revealed no associations with EHEs. Modifying effect by BMI was not observed.

Conclusions

We did not find a significantly increased risk of OFCs associated with maternal exposure to EHEs during the relevant window of embryogenesis. Future studies should account for maternal indoor and outdoor activities and for characteristics such as hydration and use of air conditioning that could modify the effect of EHEs on pregnant women.
Teachers’ agency: Do their values make a difference?
Authors: Hadar Linor L. , Benish‐Weisman Maya
Published: October 2018

This research explored antecedents and outcomes of teachers’ agency. Study 1 (n = 767) tested whether teachers’ values relate to an agentic capacity. Study 2 (n = 430) tested the relations between teachers’ values, their agentic capacity and their agentic behaviours. The findings show that attributing importance to promoting the self and being open to new experiences, whilst maintaining self‐independence, is positively related to agentic capacity. Further, agentic capacity mediates the relations between values and agentic behaviour. These findings start to explain the broad motivations for teachers’ agency and its translation into behaviour.
Protective effect of lycopene against chemical and natural toxins: A review
Authors: Hedayati Narges , Naeini Mehri Bemani , Nezami Alireza , Hosseinzadeh Hossein , Wallace Hayes A. , Hosseini Sarasadat , Imenshahidi Mohsen , Karimi Gholamreza
Published: October 2018

People are exposed to a number of environmental, occupational, and therapeutic toxic agents which may be natural or man made. These hazardous substances may manifest as direct side effects on the function of organs or indirectly induced alteration of gene expression, cancer‐associated metabolic pathways, and/or alter homeostasis. Lycopene, as a one of the most potent antioxidant, is found in fruits and vegetables. High‐intake of lycopene has been shown to be effective in decreasing the risk of both natural toxins including mycotoxins, bacterial toxins, and chemical toxins including heavy metals, pesticides as well as herbicides. Recently, there is growing attention in understanding the mechanisms of the phytochemicals and carotenoids as antioxidative, antiapoptotic, radical scavenging, and chelating agents and their roles in the modulation of inflammatory pathways. This review summarizes available data from several recent studies about lycopene and its role against chemical and natural toxicants. © 2018 BioFactors, 45(1):5–23, 2019
A new case of Marine‐Lenhart syndrome with a papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Lombardi Martina , Tonacchera Massimo , Macchia Enrico
Published: October 2018

Key Clinical Message

We report the case of a patient with the coexistence of Graves’ disease and autonomously functioning thyroid nodules. Because of the suspicious ultrasound pattern, he was submitted to fine‐needle aspiration of the hot nodule and cytology revealed a papillary thyroid cancer. After total thyroidectomy a papillary thyroid cancer was found.
Social media and clinical trials: The pros and cons gain context when the patient is at the center
Authors: Thompson Michael A. , O’Regan Ruth M.
Published: October 2018

Social media is a useful tool for increasing awareness and disseminating information about clinical trials. However, risks include issues with confidentiality, privacy, and integrity of clinical trials.
NIFTP revised: Chronicle of a change foretold
Authors: Rossi Esther Diana , Faquin William C.
Published: October 2018

This editorial discusses the pathology of noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary‐like nuclear features, the proposed changes to its diagnostic criteria, and the potential impact of these revisions on thyroid cytopathology.
The role of noninitial clusters in the Children's Test of Nonword Repetition: Evidence from children with language impairment and typically developing children
Authors: Cilibrasi Luca , Stojanovik Vesna , Loucas Tom , Riddell Patricia
Published: October 2018

The Children's Test of Nonword Repetition (CNRep) is one of the most popular tests of nonword repetition. The test is composed of nonwords of different length, and normative data suggest that children experience more difficulties in repeating long nonwords. An analysis of the distribution of phonological clusters in the test shows that noninitial clusters are unequally distributed in the test: They only appear in long nonwords (four and five syllables). For this reason, we hypothesized that the difficulties children encounter with long nonwords may be influenced by the phonological complexity of the clusters and not just by the challenge for working memory associated with length. To test the hypothesis, we compared repetition performance in long nonwords with and without a noninitial cluster in 18 children with language impairment and 18 typically developing children. The analysis shows that long nonwords with noninitial clusters are repeated less accurately by both groups. In addition, there was an interaction between cluster and age: The effect of cluster is absent in younger children and gradually increases with age. These findings suggest that phonological complexity may be having an impact on the length effect normally observed in the CNRep, and this impact may be particularly evident in older children.
Circulating exosomal noncoding RNAs as prognostic biomarkers in human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lee Yu Rim , Kim Gyeonghwa , Tak Won Young , Jang Se Young , Kweon Young Oh , Park Jung Gil , Lee Hye Won , Han Young Seok , Chun Jae Min , Park Soo Young , Hur Keun
Published: October 2018

Exosomal noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) have unique expression profiles reflecting the characteristics of a tumor, and their role in tumor progression and metastasis is emerging. However, the significance of circulating exosomal ncRNAs in the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains to be elucidated. We therefore determined the prognostic significance of circulating exosomal ncRNAs (miRNA‐21 and lncRNA‐ATB) for human HCC. This prospective study enrolled 79 HCC patients between October 2014 and September 2015. Exosomes were extracted from serum samples using the ExoQuick Exosome Precipitation Solution. To validate the isolation of the exosomes from serum, immunoblotting for exosome markers and characterization of nanoparticle using NanoSight were performed. NcRNAs were isolated from exosomes using the miRNeasy serum/plasma micro kit. Both circulating exosomal miRNA‐21 and lncRNA‐ATB were related to TNM stage and other prognostic factors, including the T stage and portal vein thrombosis. Multivariate analysis using the Cox regression test identified that both higher miRNA‐21 and higher lncRNA‐ATB were independent predictors of mortality and disease progression, along with larger tumor size and higher C‐reactive protein (all p < 0.05). The overall survival and progression‐free survival were significantly lower in patients with higher circulating levels of exosomal miRNA‐21 (≥0.09) and lncRNA‐ATB (≥0.0016) (log‐rank test: p < 0.05). In conclusion, our study has provided strong evidence that circulating exosomal ncRNAs (miRNA‐21 and lncRNA‐ATB) are novel prognostic markers and therapeutic targets for HCC.
MOTHERS AND THEIR INFANTS CO‐ADMITTED TO A NEWLY DEVELOPED MOTHER–BABY UNIT: CHARACTERISTICS AND OUTCOMES
Authors: Wright Tanya , Stevens Suzanne , Wouldes Trecia A.
Published: October 2018

Research on Mother–Baby Units (MBUs) has mainly focused on maternal psychiatric outcomes, not the well‐being of infants. This study investigated infant development and mental health along with maternal characteristics and the mother–infant relationship in 45 dyads (60% New Zealand European, 20% Māori, 11% Pacific) admitted to a new MBU. Maternal psychopathology was measured with the Health of the Nations Outcome Scale (HoNOS, J.K Wing et al., 1998) and Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF; I.M. Aas, 2010). The Parent–Infant Relationship Global Assessment Scale (PIR‐GAS, Zero to Three, 2005) measured the mother–infant relationship. Infant measures included Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (Zero to Three Press, 2005) and the Ages & Stages‐3 (J. Squires, E. Twombly, D. Bricker, & L. Potter, 2009). Maternal mental illness and functioning improved during the admission and were positively associated with longer inpatient duration and no illicit substance use. Well‐being of the infants was concerning. In addition to lower birth weights and poorer health status, at discharge 51% were lagging behind developmentally, and 51% were exhibiting signs of infant mental health concerns. Relationally, 67% of mother–infant dyads had features of, and 29% met criteria for, a disordered relationship. Poorer mother–infant relationships were associated with a maternal diagnosis of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, use of the Mental Health Act, leaving the MBU early, limited social support, and infant mental health diagnosis.
One‐pot synthesis of 2‐amino‐4,8‐dihydropyrano[3,2‐b]pyranes and pyridopyrimidines under mild conditions
Authors: Rigi Fatemeh , Shaterian Hamid Reza
Published: October 2018

1,8‐Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene immobilized on silica (SB‐DBU)Cl as a reusable and heterogeneous catalyst was applied for the one‐pot, three‐component synthesis of 2‐amino‐4,8‐dihydropyrano[3,2‐b]pyrane‐3‐carbonitriles and pyridopyrimidines, under solvent‐free conditions. The reaction was carried out at room temperature, and pure products were obtained in high yields and short reaction times (3–7 min). This work introduced an environmentally benign procedure for the synthesis of these classes of biological active compounds.
Characteristics of summer extreme precipitation in the Huai River basin and their relationship with East Asia summer monsoon during 1960–2014
Authors: Yin Yixing , Chen Haishan , Zhai Panmao , Xu Chong‐Yu , Ma Hedi
Published: October 2018

Based on the daily precipitation data of the Huai River basin (HRB) and NCEP/NCAR reanalysis data from 1960 to 2014, the study examines the spatio‐temporal characteristics of summer extreme precipitation (SEP), explores the statistical relationship between the changes of SEP in the HRB and the East Asian summer monsoon (EASM), and further investigates the circulation characteristics which are most conducive to extreme precipitation under different EASM backgrounds. The main results are as follows: (a) summer extreme precipitation indices (SEPI) of PNL90 and PQ90 mainly increased (although not significant) in the HRB from 1960 to 2014, and the weakening of EASM may be the reason for the upwards trend. (b) The characteristics of SEP are quite different between the north and the south of the HRB, and SEPI mainly negatively correlates with East Asian summer monsoon index (EASMI) in the south but positively correlates in the north. (c) Extreme precipitation may occur under both strong and weak summer monsoon backgrounds in the HRB, but the circulation configurations are different. The differences between high and low SEP are mainly associated with the intensity of western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) for the weak EASM years, while the differences mainly lie in the position of WPSH for the strong EASM years.
Kinetics of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural formation in the sugar–amino acid model of Maillard reaction
Authors: Zhang Li‐Li , Kong Yan , Yang Xiao , Zhang Yu‐Yu , Sun Bao‐Guo , Chen Hai‐Tao , Sun Ying
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND

As a potential health hazard, 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) has been detected in thermally processed foods high in sugar and amino acids. In order to analyze HMF quantitatively and investigate the kinetics of its formation, high‐performance liquid chromatography was employed to determine the content of HMF in six sugar–amino acid thermal reaction models.

RESULTS

In thermal reaction models, formation of HMF was significantly affected by sugar and amino acid composition, pH value and heating conditions. HMF formation increased with increasing sugar and amino acid (cysteine excepted) content, temperature and reaction time. A maximum amount of HMF of 1.50 g kg−1 was detected in the sucrose–glutamic acid model at 110 °C and 6 h. Low pH value and added acidic amino acids promoted the formation of HMF, especially in the sucrose‐containing system.

CONCLUSION

HMF formation followed first‐order kinetics in four models, including the model of glucose–cysteine, glucose–glutamic acid, glucose–leucine and sucrose–leucine. In contrast, HMF formation followed zero‐order kinetics in the model of sucrose–glutamic acid. The quantity of HMF increased as the quantity of sugar and amino acid increased (cysteine excepted) in six tested models. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
The Impact of Military and Nonmilitary Experiences on Marriage: Examining the Military Spouse's Perspective
Authors: Pflieger Jacqueline C. , LeardMann Cynthia A. , McMaster Hope S. , Donoho Carrie J. , Riviere Lyndon A. ,   for the Millennium Cohort Family Study Team
Published: October 2018

There has been conflicting research regarding direct association between deployments and marital quality, particularly from the military spouse's perspective. In the current study, we sought to extend past research by examining the direct association between both military and nonmilitary experiences and military spouse marital quality using 2011–2013 baseline data from the Millennium Cohort Family Study, a large sample of military couples representing all U.S. service branches and components. Military experiences were assessed using electronic deployment records to capture the number and length of deployments since 2001, and service members reported combat experience and symptoms indicative of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Military spouses reported on service members’ recent time away from home, nonmilitary family stressors, and marital quality. Results of the logistic regression model adjusted for demographic, relationship, and military covariates indicated that most military experiences did not have a direct statistical association with low marital quality except service member PTSD, odds ratio (OR) = 1.54, 95% CI [1.17, 2.04]. Rather, nonmilitary experiences of the military spouse, including lack of social support, OR = 2.68, 95% CI [2.07, 3.47]; caregiver burden, OR = 1.56, 95% CI [1.22, 1.99]; work–family conflict, OR = 1.42, 95% CI [1.18, 1.69]; and financial strain, OR = 1.27, 95% CI [1.03, 1.55], increased odds of low marital quality. Implications of these findings include providing additional supports to address nonmilitary family stressors that are particularly salient to military spouses with an aim to promote marital quality.
Social Support Moderates the Association Between Traumatic Life Events and Depression Among Migrant and Nonmigrant Men in Almaty, Kazakhstan
Authors: Ward Kaitlin P. , Shaw Stacey A. , Chang Mingway , El‐Bassel Nabila
Published: October 2018

Across cultures, experiencing traumatic life events, particularly violence, is a salient predictor of depression. Some previous findings have shown that social support can serve as a buffer in the association between traumatic life events and depression (i.e., the buffering hypothesis) in that individuals with a high level of social support have a decreased or nonexistent association between traumatic life events and depression. The purpose of this study was to test the buffering hypothesis among a sample of 1,342 male migrant and nonmigrant market vendors in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Using multiple‐group structural equation modeling (SEM), we identified the following results: (a) higher levels of traumatic life events were associated with higher depression scores, (b) higher social support scores were associated with decreased depression scores, and (c) social support buffered the association between traumatic life events and depression among migrants and nonmigrants. The final model accounted for 45.0% and 38.4% of the variance in depression for migrants and nonmigrants, respectively. Findings suggest that social support may be an important protective factor for men in Kazakhstan who have experienced trauma and call for an incorporation of social support interventions for migrant and nonmigrant men experiencing depression.
Systematic review of movement disorders and oculomotor abnormalities in Whipple's disease
Authors: Bally Julien F. , Méneret Aurélie , Roze Emmanuel , Anderson Melanie , Grabli David , Lang Anthony E.
Published: October 2018

Whipple's disease, affecting the CNS, can cause a wide variety of symptoms. Movement disorders are very prevalent, and some are pathognomonic of the disease. This systematic review analyzed all published cases of movement disorders because of CNS Whipple's disease, providing detailed information on clinical and associated features. We have also attempted to address sources of confusion in the literature, particularly related to differing uses of the terminology of movement disorder. This comprehensive overview of Whipple's disease‐induced movement disorders aims to aid neurologists in recognizing this very rare disorder and successfully reaching a laboratory‐confirmed diagnosis in order to initiate appropriate therapy. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Analysis of tunneling field‐effect transistor with germanium source junction using small‐signal equivalent circuit
Authors: Jung Yung Hun , Kang In Man , Cho Seongjae
Published: October 2018

In this study, germanium is used as the source junction material in a tunneling field‐effect transistor (TFET) and the Ge‐source TFET is analyzed in the perspectives of high‐frequency performances. For analyses on the high‐frequency parameters, a small‐signal equivalent circuit with high credibility and device simulation are operated in cooperation. The errors in capacitances and transconductances, from both approaches, are within 10% up to the terahertz regime. It is found that the Ge‐source TFET has smaller gate‐to‐drain capacitance and tunneling resistance than Si‐source device. These features merit make Ge‐source TFET more suitable to wide variety of high‐speed and low‐power applications.
Current‐gain in FETs beyond cut‐off frequency
Authors: Crupi Giovanni , Raffo Antonio , Vadalà Valeria , Vannini Giorgio , Caddemi Alina
Published: October 2018

Driven by the fast‐growing demand for high‐frequency applications, electronics engineers are steadily pushing transistor technologies beyond their high‐frequency limits. A key figure of merit to quickly assess the potential of a transistor for high‐frequency applications is given by the cut‐off frequency (fT) that is defined as the frequency at which the short‐circuit current‐gain (h21) drops to unity. However, field‐effect transistors (FETs) can exhibit a current‐gain even at frequencies beyond fT, due to the resonance of the extrinsic reactive contributions leading to a peak in the magnitude of h21. Based on an extensive analysis, this letter aims to demonstrate that, although not all FETs exhibit such a current‐gain peak at frequencies beyond fT, this effect is inherent in any FET devices and its appearance simply depends on the specific amount of the extrinsic reactive contributions, besides to the operating frequency.
Are boys with duchenne muscular dystrophy eating more than they need to? Maybe…
Authors: Davidson Zoe E. , Billich Natassja K.
Published: October 2018

See article on pages 295–302 in this issue.
Factors associated with early dropout in an employer‐based commercial weight‐loss program
Authors: Alexander E. , Tseng E. , Durkin N. , Jerome G. J. , Dalcin A. , Appel L. J. , Clark J. M. , Gudzune K. A.
Published: October 2018

Objective

Minimizing program dropout is essential for weight‐loss success, but factors that influence dropout among commercial programs are unclear. This study's objective was to determine factors associated with early dropout in a commercial weight‐loss program.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of a remotely delivered, employer‐based commercial program from 2013 to 2016 was conducted. The dependent variable was ‘early dropout’, defined as enrollees who disengaged from telephone coaching by month 2's end. Independent variables included demographics, program website engagement and early weight change. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to assess for differences in early dropout by several factors, adjusted for employer clustering.

Results

Of the 5,274 participants, 26.8% dropped out early. Having ≥1 chronic condition (odds ratio [OR] 1.41, p < 0.001) and ‘weight‐loss failure’ defined as ≥0% weight change at month 1's end (OR 1.86, p < 0.001) had significantly increased odds of early dropout. Increasing age by 10‐year intervals (OR 0.90, p = 0.002) and ‘meeting the website login goal’ defined as ≥90 logins in 3 months (OR 0.13, p < 0.001) significantly decreased the odds of early dropout.

Conclusions

Presence of comorbidities, less online engagement and weight‐loss failure were associated with early dropout in a commercial program. Strategies to prevent dropout among high‐risk participants, such as increased support or program tailoring, should be developed and tested.
Correlation between microstructures and optical properties of polyaniline/single‐walled carbon nanotubes composites
Authors: Saoudi Mariem , Zaidi Boubaker , Ajjel Ridha
Published: October 2018

The polyaniline was doped with sulfonic acid and functionalized with single‐walled carbon nanotubes. The effects of single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) inserting and thermal annealing at T = 393 K, during 24 h are carried out by optical and structural study. Structural characterizations of D‐polyaniline (PANI) or D‐PANI/SWCNTs compounds at both pristine and annealed states were obtained by Fourier Transform infrared analysis and scanning and transmission electron microscopies. Optical parameters including absorption coefficient, optical transition type, energy gaps, skin depth, and extinction coefficient have been also elucidated from optical absorption measurements. Moreover, the characteristics of the localized states introduced either by SWCNTs adding and/or annealing temperature are carried out. By referring to the starting material, the direct (indirect) optical band gap was found to be reduced from 3.91 (3.75) to 2.35 (2.24) eV, after SWCNTs inserting and annealing. Moreover, new localized states having a band width of 390 meV are created at 1.25 eV. The SWCNTS dispersion quality on the organic matrix and the PANI self‐crosslinking lead to the charge transfer and the resulting interpenetrating network can be used as active layers for organic solar cells. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:E821–E831, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Living with type 1 diabetes and an insulin pump: a qualitative insight
Authors: Grose Daniel N , O'Brien Casey L , Bongetti Elisa K , Corcoran Hannah M , Loh Margaret M , Ward Glenn M , Castle David J
Published: October 2018

This study aims to provide a qualitative insight into the experiences of people living with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) who use an insulin pump, and thus inform diabetes care practices including psychological support programmes.

Patients attending a specialist T1DM outpatient clinic were invited to share their experience of living with an insulin pump. Participants took part in either a semi‐structured interview or a focus group, which were audio‐recorded and transcribed. The data were analysed using a framework approach based on the Optimal Health Wheel comprised of six domains including Physical, Social, Intellectual, Emotional, Occupational and Spiritual values.

A total of 15 individuals participated in a semi‐structured interview (n=7) or a focus group (n=8). Participants were aged between 20 and 60 years with a duration of pump use ranging from 7 weeks to 9.5 years; the majority were female (n=12). A total of 19 sub‐themes were identified under the six Optimal Health Wheel domains.

It was concluded that the Optimal Health Wheel is a useful framework for qualitative data analysis. Its application synthesised some new themes (emotional–physical interplay, self‐esteem and personality, and sense of self), as well as building on previously described themes such as self‐management and the pump's physical presence. These provide insight into the lives of people living with T1DM and an insulin pump. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons.
How child‐centred education favours some learners more than others
Authors: Power Sally , Rhys Mirain , Taylor Chris , Waldron Sam
Published: October 2018

Debates on how best to educate young children have been raging over the last 100 years—more often fuelled by ideological preferences rather than empirical evidence. To some extent this is hardly surprising given the difficulty of examining pupil progress in a systematic and comparative way. However, the introduction of a new child‐centred curriculum in Wales provides the opportunity to undertake just such an examination. The Foundation Phase curriculum, introduced in 2008, is designed to provide all 3‐ to 7‐year‐olds with a developmental, experiential, play‐based approach to learning. Evidence from a major 3‐year evaluation of this intervention finds that, overall, pupil progress and well‐being is fostered in those settings where the principles of the Foundation Phase have been most closely followed. However, the evidence also suggests that even within these contexts, progress is uneven and that some kinds of children seem to gain more from this approach than others. The ‘losers’ appear to be boys and those living in poverty. Drawing on the theories of Basil Bernstein, the paper explores why this may be the case and examines the relative significance of teacher dispositions, teacher–learner dynamics and the availability of resources. The paper concludes by arguing that these issues will need to be addressed if the benefits of child‐centred approaches are to benefit all.