bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of various postmortem processing times and blanching methods on quality of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) waste oil
Authors: Sabzipour Forouzan , Naseri Mahmood , Babaei Sedigheh , Imani Ahmad
Published: August 2019

Oil extracted from fish waste is considered as a value‐added product. The effect of postmortem processing times (0, 3, 6, and 9 hr) and blanching methods (sodium chloride, pH shift, and high temperature) on the extracted oil from rainbow trout viscera was studied. Blanching was applied six hours prior to oil extraction to counteract the effects of delayed processing time and increasing the oil stability. Autolysis by digestive enzymes is main culprit of higher contents of free fatty acids, lipid oxidation, saponified compound, and saturation degrees in case of postponed oil extraction. Results showed that PV was increased after pH shift and high temperature blanching, while there were no significant differences by using salt blanching. The lowest amount of TBA, AV, Totox, and saponification index was observed in salt blanched treatment. The colorimetric values including L*, b*, and whiteness index were decreased after pH shift, whereas redness was increased. Unfavorable coloration could be attributed to the lipid oxidation process that giving rise nonvolatile decomposition products with carbonyl groups. Our results indicated that salt blanching could reduce the effects of delayed processing time and lead to higher quality value‐added product from rainbow trout viscera.
A diffuse modeling approach for embedded interfaces in linear elasticity
Authors: Hennig Paul , Maier Roland , Peterseim Daniel , Schillinger Dominik , Verfürth Barbara , Kästner Markus
Published: August 2019

In this contribution, we present a diffuse modeling approach to embed material interfaces into nonconforming meshes with a focus on linear elasticity. For this purpose, a regularized indicator function is employed that describes the distribution of the different materials by a scalar value. The material in the resulting diffuse interface region is redefined in terms of this indicator function and recomputed by a homogenization of the adjacent material parameters. The applied homogenization method fulfills the kinematic compatibility across the interface and the static equilibrium at the interface. In addition, an hℓ‐adaptive refinement strategy based on truncated hierarchical B‐spline is applied to provide an appropriate and efficient approximation of the diffuse interface region. We justify mathematically and demonstrate numerically that the applied approach leads to optimal convergence rates in the far field for one‐dimensional problems. A two‐dimensional example illustrates that the application of the hℓ‐adaptive refinement strategy allows for a clear reduction of the error in the near and far field and a good resolution of the local stress and strain fields at the interface. The use of a higher continuous B‐spline basis leads to efficient computations due to the higher continuity of the diffuse interface model.
Evaluation of oral tegafur‐uracil as metronomic therapy following concurrent chemoradiotherapy in patients with non‐distant metastatic TNM stage IV nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Chen Jia‐Hong , Huang Wen‐Yen , Ho Ching‐Liang , Chao Tsu‐Yi , Lee Jih‐Chin
Published: August 2019

Background

The study was aimed to evaluate the impact of accumulated oral tegafur‐uracil (UFUR) as maintenance chemotherapy on overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) rates after concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) for complete remission (CR) in non‐distant metastatic TNM stage IV nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Methods

Data were retrospectively analyzed from a database of patients with non‐distant metastatic TNM stage IV NPC, composed of those who underwent CCRT for CR from January 2010 through December 2017.

Results

Thirty‐three patients were treated with CCRT (the non‐UFUR group), and the other 37 patients were treated with the same regimen, followed by additional oral UFUR (the UFUR group). Importantly, the 5‐year OS rates were 91.89% in the UFUR group and 57.58% in the non‐UFUR group (P = .004).

Conclusions

Adding UFUR to CCRT was found to significantly improve the DFS and OS rates of patients with non‐distant metastatic TNM stage IV NPC. The authors cautiously suggest UFUR as possible maintenance therapy following CCRT.
A comparison of the effectiveness of the roots of two grass species in reducing soil erosion on alluvial fans in south‐east China
Authors: Jiang Fangshi , He Kaiwen , Lin Jiahui , Li Hui , Zhan Zhenzhi , Lin Jinshi , Ge Hongli , Wang Ming Kuang , Huang Yanhe
Published: August 2019

The effects of root systems on soil detachment by overland flow are closely related to vegetation types. The objective of this study was to quantify the effects of two gramineous roots (Paspalum mandiocanum with shallow roots and Pennisetum giganteum with deep roots) on soil detachment capacity, rill erodibility, and critical shear stress on alluvial fans of benggang in south‐east China. A 4‐m‐long and 0.12‐m‐wide flume was used. Slope steepness ranged from 9% to 27%, and unit flow discharge ranged from 1.39 × 10−3 to 4.19 × 10−3 m2 s−1. The mean detachment capacities of P. mandiocanum and P. giganteum lands were 18% and 38% lower than that of bare land, respectively, and the effects of root on reducing soil detachment were mainly reflected in the 0‐ to 5‐cm soil layer. The most important factors in characterizing soil detachment capacity were root length density and soil cohesion, and soil detachment capacity of the two grass lands could be estimated using flow shear stress, soil cohesion, and root length density (NSE = 0.90). With the increase in soil depth, rill erodibility increased, whereas shear stress decreased. The mean rill erodibilities of P. mandiocanum and P. giganteum lands were 81% and 61% as much as that of bare land, respectively. Additionally, rill erodibilities of the two grass lands could be estimated as an exponential function by root length density and soil cohesion (NSE = 0.88). The mean critical shear stress of P. mandiocanum and P. giganteum lands was 1.29 and 1.39 times that of bare land, respectively, and it could be estimated with a linear function by root length density (NSE = 0.76). This study demonstrated that planting of the two grasses P. mandiocanum and P. giganteum could effectively reduce soil detachment and enhance soil resistance to erosion on alluvial fans, with the deep roots of P. giganteum being more effective than the shallow roots of P. mandiocanum. The results are helpful for understanding the influencing mechanism of root systems on soil detachment process.
Asset restructuring performance prediction for failure firms
Authors: Li Hui , Chen Qian‐Xia , Hong Lu‐Yao , Zhou Qing
Published: August 2019

This study aims to forecast asset restructuring performance for failing public firms and to test the effectiveness of different strategies of assets restructuring by using ten models, including: standalone models of multivariate discriminant analysis (MDA), logistic regression (Logit), probit, case‐based reasoning (CBR), support vector machine (SVM), and their bagged ensembles. Moreover, this study proposes a knowledge base by collecting positive and negative samples and uses random down‐sampling method to pair success samples with failure samples in order to focus more on real‐happened failure samples when forming a balanced data set. After variables filtering process, ten financial ratios, covering aspects of debt‐paying, risk level, development, and operating abilities, are identified as significantly efficient predictors. The following empirical results are found, namely (a) adopting more means of asset restructuring leads to a higher chance for performance improvement; (b) equity transfer, asset stripping, and asset acquisition are the three most commonly used means, and the last two are among the most efficient means; (c) compared to the other 9 models, SVM has the most balanced prediction performance in terms of total accuracy, true positive ratio, and true negative ratio; and (d) predicting a failing event of achieving performance improvement with asset restructuring is more difficult than predicting a successful event, which needs more focus with the state‐of‐the‐art models.
Defining barriers to implementation of nutritional advice in patients with cachexia
Authors: Nasrah Rima , Van Der Borch Christina , Kanbalian Mary , Jagoe R. Thomas
Published: August 2019

Background

Cancer cachexia is a multidimensional wasting syndrome and a reduced dietary intake is both common and strongly correlated with degree of weight loss. Many patients with cachexia do not achieve recommended dietary intake even after nutritional counselling. Prior reports suggest this is likely due to barrier symptoms, but other potential contributory factors have not been studied in detail.

Methods

Dietitian‐assigned barriers to successful nutritional intervention were recorded at each visit in all patients attending a multidisciplinary clinic for management of cancer cachexia. The barriers were grouped into 15 categories and classified as either symptom‐related or not symptom‐related. In addition, symptom scores, dietary intake, and weight change were recorded.

Results

Data on 94 new patients showed that 89% of patients had at least one major barrier. Four of the five most common barriers and 65% of all barriers identified were not symptom‐related. Over sequential visits the specific barrier(s) in any one patient changed approximately 50% of the time. However, the presence of barriers did not render patients refractory to nutritional intervention and with intervention from the CNR‐JGH team, mean dietary intake increased significantly.

Conclusions

In advanced cancer patients with cachexia, non‐symptom‐related barriers to nutritional intervention are more common than symptom‐related. Barriers are dynamic, and repeated careful evaluation over time is required to achieve optimal impact with nutritional intervention in cancer cachexia. Members of the multidisciplinary team need appropriate expertise to address the barriers identified and achieve optimal results with nutritional intervention.
In Vitro Evidence for Cell‐Accelerated Corrosion Within Modular Junctions of Total Hip Replacements
Authors: Bijukumar Divya Rani , Salunkhe Shruti , Morris Dalton , Segu Abhijith , Hall Deborah J. , Pourzal Robin , Mathew Mathew T.
Published: August 2019

Corrosion at modular junctions of total hip replacement (THR) remains a major concern today. Multiple types of damage modes have been identified at modular junctions, correlated with different corrosion characteristics that may eventually lead to implant failure. Recently, within the head‐taper region of the CoCrMo retrieval implants, cell‐like features and trails of etching patterns were observed that could potentially be linked to the involvement of cells of the periprosthetic region. However, there is no experimental evidence to corroborate this phenomenon. Therefore, we aimed to study the potential role of periprosthetic cell types on corrosion of CoCrMo alloy under different culture conditions, including the presence of CoCrMo wear debris. Cells were incubated with and without CoCrMo wear debris (obtained from a hip simulator) with an average particle size of 119 ± 138 nm. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to evaluate the corrosion tendency, corrosion rate, and corrosion kinetics using the media after 24 h of cell culture as the electrolyte. Results of the study showed that there was lower corrosion resistance (p < 0.02) and higher capacitance (p < 0.05) within cell media from macrophages challenged with particles when compared with the other media conditions studied. The potentiodynamic results were also in agreement with the EIS values, showing significantly higher corrosion tendency (low Ecorr) (p < 0.0001) and high Icorr (p < 0.05) in media from challenged macrophages compared with media with H2O2 solution. Overall, the study provides in vitro experimental evidence for the possible role of macrophages in altering the chemical environment within the crevice and thereby accelerating corrosion of CoCrMo alloy. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:393‐404, 2020
Ultrasonic modification of pectin for enhanced 2‐furfurylthiol encapsulation: process optimization and mechanisms
Authors: Wang Wenjun , Feng Yiming , Chen Weijun , Wang Yueying , Wilder Geoffrey , Liu Donghong , Yin Yun
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Pectin is an intriguing polymer, which is usually regarded as a byproduct from agricultural and biological processes. In previous studies, ultrasound treatment has been explored to improve the functionality of pectin but most of that work focused on aspects of molecular structure and the chemical properties of pectin. In this study, we utilized ultrasound treatment to modify the physiochemical properties of pectin. Using ultrasound treatment, we evaluated the emulsifying capability of pectin as a function of ultrasonic time and power density, using a response surface approach. A very potent yet unstable coffee‐like aroma compound, 2‐furfurylthiol, was also used for comparing the encapsulation feasibility of emulsion made with original pectin and ultrasound‐treated pectin.

RESULTS

Our results showed that the particle size of pectin was highly correlated with power density and ultrasound time. Approximately 370 nm of pectin particle size could be reached at a power density of 1.06 W mL−1 for 40 min. Ultrasound treatment increased emulsion droplet size but significantly improved emulsifying capacities, such as centrifugal stability and surface loading, although it was highly dependent upon the ultrasound treatment condition. When used as the encapsulation wall material, the ultrasound‐modified pectin had significantly enhanced performance compared with the original, in terms of flavor retention over time at 45 °C and 65 °C.

CONCLUSION

Ultrasound treatment was able to modify the physiochemical properties of pectin, which thus improved emulsification stability and encapsulation feasibility by forming a thicker layer at the oil / water interface to protect the core materials. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Silkworm dropping extract regulates food allergy symptoms via inhibition of Th2‐related responses in an ovalbumin‐induced food allergy model
Authors: Jung Sun Young , See Hye‐Joeng , Kwon Da‐Ae , Choi Dae‐Woon , Lee So‐Young , Shon Dong‐Hwa , Shin Hee Soon
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

Silkworm droppings have long been used in traditional medicine to remedy allergic itching, palsy, blood circulation problems, and arthritis in Asian countries. To investigate the anti‐allergic effect of silkworm dropping extract (SDE) and its mechanism, we used a mouse model of food allergy induced by ovalbumin (OVA).

RESULTS

SDE ameliorated the symptoms of OVA‐induced food allergies, and the levels of T helper 2 (Th2)‐related cytokines [such as interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5, IL‐10, and IL‐13] were found to be significantly decreased in both the spleen and mesenteric lymph nodes by SDE. Furthermore, SDE treatment directly inhibited OVA permeation, IL‐4 production, and degranulation of mast cells; in contrast, immunoglobulin E (IgE) production from B cells was not affected.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that SDE has potential anti‐allergic activities, and SDE may be useful in the treatment/prevention of allergic disorders such as food allergies, serving as therapeutic agents. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Mass transfer during osmotic dehydrationand its effect on anthocyanin retention of microwave vacuum‐dried blackberries
Authors: Song Chunfang , Ma Xiaotong , Li Zhenfeng , Wu Tao , Raghavan GS Vijaya , Chen Haiying
Published: August 2019

BACKGROUND

The combination of sugar osmotic dehydration and microwave vacuum drying is an effective method for the dehydration of blackberries, the retention of their antioxidant properties, and the extension of their shelf life. Mass transfer during the osmotic dehydration of blackberries in sugar solution was investigated together with its influence on microwave vacuum drying characteristics, and the retention rate of anthocyanins in dried frozen blackberries.

RESULTS

The concentrations of the osmotic solutions that were tested contained 40%, 50%, and 60% sugar, and the osmotic solution temperatures were 30 °C, 40 °C, and 50 °C. The solution‐to‐blackberry mass ratio was 10:1 (w/w) and the process duration varied from 0 to 5 h. A two‐parameter mathematical model was used to describe mass transfer in the osmotic dehydration of blackberry samples and estimate moisture loss and solid gain in the final equilibrium. The results showed that the dehydration rate and solid gain rate of the blackberries increased with an increase in osmotic concentration, osmotic time, and the temperature of the solution under certain experimental conditions. The effective diffusivity of moisture and solute were estimated using the analytical solution of Fick's second law of diffusion. The moisture and effective diffusivities of sugar in the above osmotic dehydration conditions were in the range of 1.77 × 10−9–2.10 × 10−9 and 1.36 × 10−9–1.60 × 10−9 m2 .s−1, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The pretreatment of sugar osmosis greatly reduced the microwave vacuum drying time in the latter part of the dehydration period and increased anthocyanin retention. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Utility of Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound for Early Therapeutic Evaluation of Hepatocellular Carcinoma After Transcatheter Arterial Chemoembolization
Authors: Watanabe Yukinobu , Ogawa Masahiro , Kumagawa Mariko , Hirayama Midori , Miura Takao , Matsumoto Naoki , Nakagawara Hiroshi , Yamamoto Toshiki , Moriyama Mitsuhiko
Published: August 2019

Objectives

We aimed to investigate whether contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) could be useful for early evaluation of the treatment response to transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

This study retrospectively selected HCCs in which homogeneous retention of iodized oil was confirmed on non–contrast‐enhanced computed tomography performed immediately after TACE. Therapeutic responses of HCCs were evaluated by CEUS 1 to 2 days after TACE and by contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CECT) approximately 4 weeks after TACE. We investigated the noninferiority of CEUS 1 to 2 days after TACE to CECT approximately 4 weeks after TACE in terms of the diagnostic accuracy of the therapeutic response to TACE on HCC.

Results

Eighty‐nine HCCs were enrolled in this study between April 2014 and June 2016. A complete response was observed in 57 of 89 nodules (64.0%), and an incomplete response was observed in the remaining 32 nodules (36.0%). The accuracy rates for CEUS 1 to 2 days after TACE and CECT approximately 4 weeks after TACE in the therapeutic effect of TACE on HCCs were 83.1% (95% confidence interval, 73.7%–90.2%) and 83.1% (95% confidence interval, 73.7%–90.2%), respectively. The difference in diagnostic accuracy between methods was 0%, which was below the predetermined noninferiority limit of 15%, and CEUS 1 to 2 days after TACE was noninferior to CECT approximately 4 weeks after TACE.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that CEUS is a useful modality for early therapeutic evaluation of TACE for HCC, and we can thus plan the next treatment strategies for HCC within a few days after TACE.
Predictive testing for Huntington disease over 24 years: Evolution of the profile of the participants and analysis of symptoms
Authors: Ramond Francis , Quadrio Isabelle , Le Vavasseur Laurence , Chaumet Hélène , Boyer Fabrice , Bost Muriel , Ollagnon‐Roman Elisabeth
Published: August 2019

Background

Huntington disease (HD) is a devastating neurodegenerative autosomal dominant genetic condition. Predictive testing (PT) is available through a defined protocol for at‐risk individuals. We analyzed the over‐24‐years evolution of practices regarding PT for HD in a single center.

Methods

We gathered data from the files of all individuals seeking PT for HD in Lyon, France, from 1994 to 2017.

Results

448 out of 567 participants had exploitable data. Age at consultation dichotomized over 24 years toward an eightfold increase in individuals aged >55 (2/94 vs. 30/183; 2% to 16%; p < .0001) and twice as many individuals aged 18–20 (3/94 vs. 12/183; 3%–7%; p < .05). Motives for testing remained stable. The rate of withdrawal doubled over 24 years (9/94 vs. 38/183; 9%–21%; p < .02). Independently of the time period, less withdrawal was observed for married, accompanied, at 50% risk, and symptomatic individuals, and in those able to explicit the motives for testing or taking the test to inform their children. We also assessed the consistency between the presence of subtle symptoms compatible with HD found before the test by the team's neurologist, and the positivity of the molecular test. The concordance was 100% (17/17) for associated motor and cognitive signs, 87% (27/31) for isolated motor signs, and 70% (7/10) for isolated cognitive signs. Furthermore, 91% (20/22) of individuals who requested testing because they thought they had symptoms, were indeed found carriers.

Conclusion

This over‐24 years study underlines an increasing withdrawal from protocol and a dichotomization of participants’ age. We also show a strong concordance between symptoms perceived by the neurologist or by the patient, and the subsequent positivity of the predictive molecular test.
Six‐element dual polarized high‐gain MIMO antenna for multiband applications
Authors: Satam Vandana , Nema Shikha
Published: August 2019

A planar six‐elements, dual‐polarized, high‐gain, multiband antenna for diverse application is proposed in this manuscript. The proposed design consists of six radiating elements and a parasitic element on the top side of the structure. Each radiating element consists of overlapped ellipse with a line feeding technique. Iterations have been carried out on the number of antenna elements as well as on the spacing between the elements to get a minimum coupling between antenna elements. To compensate the coupling effect as well as to increase the impedance bandwidth, a ground plane structure has been modified with “L” shape structures. Fabricated prototype has an isolation less than −2 dB with highest gain of 6.7 dBi. Diversity in polarization is achieved by orienting antenna elements in vertical as well as in horizontal directions. A simple and compact design of antenna with good gain and less correlation coefficient makes an antenna useful for multiple input multiple output (MIMO) applications in the wireless communication systems. Simulation and measurement results validates the use of proposed structure in various applications like ISM, WLAN, Wi‐Fi, short range radar, and satellite applications.
ALTIS: A fast and automatic lung and trachea CT‐image segmentation method
Authors: Sousa Azael M. , Martins Samuel B. , Falcão Alexandre X. , Reis Fabiano , Bagatin Ericson , Irion Klaus
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The automated segmentation of each lung and trachea in CT scans is commonly taken as a solved problem. Indeed, existing approaches may easily fail in the presence of some abnormalities caused by a disease, trauma, or previous surgery. For robustness, we present ALTIS (implementation is available at http://lids.ic.unicamp.br/downloads) — a fast automatic lung and trachea CT‐image segmentation method that relies on image features and relative shape‐ and intensity‐based characteristics less affected by most appearance variations of abnormal lungs and trachea.

Methods

ALTIS consists of a sequence of image foresting transforms (IFTs) organized in three main steps: (a) lung‐and‐trachea extraction, (b) seed estimation inside background, trachea, left lung, and right lung, and (c) their delineation such that each object is defined by an optimum‐path forest rooted at its internal seeds. We compare ALTIS with two methods based on shape models (SOSM‐S and MALF), and one algorithm based on seeded region growing (PTK).

Results

The experiments involve the highest number of scans found in literature — 1255 scans, from multiple public data sets containing many anomalous cases, being only 50 normal scans used for training and 1205 scans used for testing the methods. Quantitative experiments are based on two metrics, DICE and ASSD. Furthermore, we also demonstrate the robustness of ALTIS in seed estimation. Considering the test set, the proposed method achieves an average DICE of 0.987 for both lungs and 0.898 for the trachea, whereas an average ASSD of 0.938 for the right lung, 0.856 for the left lung, and 1.316 for the trachea. These results indicate that ALTIS is statistically more accurate and considerably faster than the compared methods, being able to complete segmentation in a few seconds on modern PCs.

Conclusion

ALTIS is the most effective and efficient choice among the compared methods to segment left lung, right lung, and trachea in anomalous CT scans for subsequent detection, segmentation, and quantitative analysis of abnormal structures in the lung parenchyma and pleural space.
Relationship Between Trajectories of Trunk Fat Development in Emerging Adulthood and Cardiometabolic Risk at 36 Years of Age
Authors: Barbour‐Tuck Erin N. , Erlandson Marta C. , Sherar Lauren B. , Eisenmann Joey C. , Muhajarine Nazeem , Foulds Heather , Vatanparast Hassan , Nisbet Christine , Kontulainen Saija , Baxter‐Jones Adam D.G.
Published: August 2019

Objective

This study examined trajectories of trunk fat mass (FM) accrual during emerging adulthood of individuals categorized, at 36 years of age, as having higher compared with lower scores of (1) metabolic risk and (2) blood pressure risk.

Methods

Fifty‐five individuals from the Saskatchewan Pediatric Bone Mineral Accrual Study (1991‐2017) were assessed from adolescence (mean [SD], 11.5 [1.8] years) through emerging adulthood (26.2 [2.2] years) and into early adulthood (35.6 [2.2] years) (median 11 visits per individual). Sex‐specific median splits of continuous standardized risk scores at 36 years of age were created. Dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry‐assessed trunk FM trajectories were analyzed using multilevel random effects models.

Results

Higher risk scores of blood pressure risk and metabolic risk had significantly steeper trajectories of fat development (0.45 [0.11] and 0.44 [0.11] log g, respectively) than the lower risk scores. Dietary fat was not related (P > 0.05). Physical activity was negatively related (−0.04 [0.02] physical activity score) to trunk FM development during emerging adulthood.

Conclusions

Young adults with higher metabolic risk at 36 years of age had greater trunk FM development during both adolescence and emerging adulthood, supporting the need for intervention at both these critical periods of fat accrual.
Lifestyle and Chronic Pain across the Lifespan: An Inconvenient Truth?
Authors: Nijs Jo , D'Hondt Eva , Clarys Peter , Deliens Tom , Polli Andrea , Malfliet Anneleen , Coppieters Iris , Willaert Ward , Tumkaya Yilmaz Sevilay , Elma Ömer , Ickmans Kelly
Published: August 2019

Chronic pain has a tremendous personal and socioeconomic impact and remains difficult to treat. Therefore, it is important to provide an update on the current understanding regarding lifestyle factors in people with chronic pain across the lifespan. Lifestyle factors such as physical (in)activity, sedentary behavior, stress, poor sleep, unhealthy diet, and smoking are associated with chronic pain severity and sustainment. This applies to all age categories, that is, chronic pain across the lifespan. Yet current treatment options often do not or only partly address the many lifestyle factors associated with chronic pain or attempt to address them in a standard format rather than providing an individually tailored multimodal lifestyle intervention. The evidence regarding lifestyle factors is available in adults, but limited in children and older adults having chronic pain, providing important avenues for future research. In conclusion, it is proposed that treatment approaches for people with chronic pain should address all relevant lifestyle factors concomitantly in an individually‐tailored multimodal intervention. Ultimately, this should lead to improved outcomes and decrease the psychological and socioeconomic burden of chronic pain. Level of Evidence: IV.
Synthesis and pharmacological characterization of ethylenediamine synthetic opioids in human μ‐opiate receptor 1 (OPRM1) expressing cells
Authors: Hsu Tom , Mallareddy Jayapal R. , Yoshida Kayla , Bustamante Vincent , Lee Tim , Krstenansky John L. , Zambon Alexander C.
Published: August 2019

Opioids are powerful analgesics acting via the human μ‐opiate receptor (hMOR). Opioid use is associated with adverse effects such as tolerance, addiction, respiratory depression, and constipation. Two synthetic opioids, AH‐7921 and U‐47700 that were developed in the 1970s but never marketed, have recently appeared on the illegal drug market and in forensic toxicology reports. These agents were initially characterized for their analgesic activity in rodents; however, their pharmacology at hMOR has not been delineated. Thus, we synthesized over 50 chemical analogs based on core AH‐7921 and U‐47700 structures to assess for their ability to couple to Gαi signaling and induce hMOR internalization. For both the AH‐7921 and U‐47700 analogs, the 3,4‐dichlorobenzoyl substituents were the most potent with comparable EC50 values for inhibition of cAMP accumulation; 26.49 ± 11.2 nmol L−1 and 8.8 ± 4.9 nmol L−1, respectively. Despite similar potencies for Gαi coupling, these two compounds had strikingly different hMOR internalization efficacies: U‐47700 (10 μmol L−1) induced ~25% hMOR internalization similar to DAMGO while AH‐7921 (10 μmol L−1) induced ~5% hMOR internalization similar to morphine. In addition, the R, R enantiomer of U‐47700 is significantly more potent than the S, S enantiomer at hMOR. In conclusion, these data suggest that U‐47700 and AH‐7921 analogs have high analgesic potential in humans, but with divergent receptor internalization profiles, suggesting that they may exhibit differences in clinical utility or abuse potential.
High Quantum Efficiency Achieved on BiVO4 Photoanode for Efficient Solar Water Oxidation
Authors: Qin Qi , Cai Qian , Li Jing , Jian Chuanyong , Hong Wenting , Liu Wei
Published: August 2019

Oxygen vacancies, as an essential class of dopants, serve as surface electron‐trapping sites to promote charge separation and increase the electron conductivity of BiVO4 (BVO). However, oxygen vacancy is usually created in BVO by various post‐treatment methods. Herein, an innovative vapor reaction method is demonstrated, which directly synthesizes single‐crystal BVO with abundant oxygen vacancies. The thickness of the BVO photoanode can also be precisely controlled by tuning the thermal evaporation reaction between the electrodeposited bismuth precursor and vanadium precursor vapor, thereby improving the light absorption efficiency. The synthesized BVO also has a rough and flower‐like surface, which increases the surface area to reduce the solution‐mediated interface recombination. Due to the presence of enriched oxygen vacancies that serve as shallow donors, the optimized BVO photoanode with abundant oxygen vacancies and a preferable thickness reaches a photocurrent density of ≈3.25 mA cm−2 (1.23 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode) and a record high incident photo‐to‐current efficiency of 90% (450 nm).
Polymorphism in Late Cretaceous phylloceratid ammonoids: evidence from ontogenetic trajectories of septal spacing
Authors: Iwasaki Tetsuro , Iwasaki Yui , Wani Ryoji
Published: August 2019

The ontogenetic trajectories of septal spacing between succeeding chambers of two phylloceratid ammonoids, Hypophylloceras subramosum and Phyllopachyceras ezoense, from the Haboro and Kotanbetsu areas, north‐western Hokkaido, Japan, were analysed. The ontogenetic trajectories of septal spacing of H. subramosum demonstrate a general trend with large intraspecific variation: two cycles of increasing to decreasing spacing followed by almost constant spacing. The large intraspecific variation can be subdivided into three types, making this species polymorphic. The ontogenetic trajectories of septal spacing of P. ezoense also show intraspecific variation, but with a different trend: one cycle of increasing to decreasing spacing and an increasing trend after that. The intraspecific variation can be subdivided into two types, which suggests that this species is dimorphic, possibly sexually dimorphic. Dimorphism is supported by two observations: (1) the difference in the ontogenetic trajectories of septal spacing is only seen in the later ontogenetic stages; and (2) the two types co‐occur with comparable abundance throughout all stratigraphic horizons. Detailed analyses of ontogenetic trajectories of septal spacing may reveal polymorphism in other ammonoid clades.
Biostratigraphy and evolution of larger rotaliid foraminifera in the Cretaceous–Palaeogene transition of the southern Oman Mountains
Authors: Vicedo Vicent , Robles‐Salcedo Raquel , Serra‐Kiel Josep , Hidalgo Cristian , Razin Philippe , Grélaud Carine
Published: August 2019

A site in the western flank of Jabal Ja'alan (Oman Mountains) reveals an exceptional succession across the Cretaceous–Palaeogene boundary. The sampled interval comprises a series of carbonates deposited in shallow‐water platform environments and belonging to the Murka Formation, which lies between the Simsima and Abat formations of latest Cretaceous and Thanetian age, respectively. The larger foraminifera recovered from this interval belong essentially to the group of larger rotaliids (Rotaliidae). Two new genera and two new species are here described, Praelockhartia neoakbari gen. et sp. nov. and Rotaliidium parvum gen. et sp. nov. The former shows a very characteristic architecture of an umbilicus with strong piles and two types of umbilical cavities, while the latter has characteristic dorsal supplementary chamberlets. Other species such as Rotalia cf. jacobi, Rotorbinella hensoni, Rotospirella conica and Lockhartia sp. complete the rotaliid assemblage. The entire assemblage can be considered to be of late Danian age and to belong to shallow benthic zone SBZ 2. The larger rotaliids appear to have recovered and diversified earlier than any other larger benthic foraminifera in the region after the K–Pg crisis. The rotaliids from the Murka Formation also appear to be linked to the Lockhartiinae and to play a special role in improving our understanding of subsequent diversification in the Lockhartia Sea. A new subfamily, Praelockhartiinae, is erected to accommodate all primitive forms that are architecturally close to lockhartiines.
Testing conditional independence and homogeneity in large sparse three‐way tables using conditional distance covariance
Authors: Zhang Qingyang , Tinker Jian
Published: August 2019

Conditional independence test for three‐way contingency tables is a classic problem in multivariate statistics. Traditional methods including Cochran–Mantel–Haenszel test and conditional mutual information test are powerful under sufficient sample size; however, in sparse settings, these methods may fail to detect the association due to the violation of normality assumption. In this paper, we propose to use a recently developed measure, namely, conditional distance covariance, to test conditional independence in large sparse R×C×K tables. We derive the explicit formula of conditional distance covariance between three categorical variables, and we suggest a maximum‐type statistic for hypothesis testing. In addition, we introduce a new statistic based on distance covariance to test homogeneity in three‐way tables. We conduct an extensive simulation study to illustrate the superiority of our method to the existing ones.
Research on contact difference plane layering and corrosion zoning of sealed relay contacts
Authors: Li Wenhua , Lu Wenjiang , Li Shuang , Zheng Hang , Jiao Zhipeng
Published: August 2019

The aim of this article is to study the contact surface morphology and the corrosion state of sealed relays and analyze the correlation relationship of contact spot corrosion types under different deformation variables. In this article, a contact planar‐layered model of contact pairs was established, the contact corrosion status of each level was explored, and the corrosion distribution at different contact points of the contact group was obtained. In this article, combined with the dynamic contact process analysis and corresponding to the contact position of the contact group, the contact difference plane was proposed to characterize the contact state of the contact group. The genetic algorithm to optimize the maximum‐entropy double threshold method (Genetic‐KSW) was used to calculate the mutative segmentation threshold, to layer the contact difference plane, and to solve the problem of threshold fluctuation caused by big data. Finally, the corrosion product type and the corrosion distribution corresponding to different corrosion morphologies at each level of the contact group were analyzed from the angle of the corrosion film. The conclusion is that the first contacted level I region is obtained as a mild corrosion region that generates oxidative corrosion and mild wear, and the level II region is a complex compound containing N/C/S/P. The pit corrosion area is shallow, and the contaminant products Na2CO3 and NaNO2 are widely distributed on the edge of the corrosion pit with scattered spots. In contact with the level III area, the deep corrosion pits and the shallow pits coexist, and the corrosion product is the heavily corroded area of AgCl. © 2019 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Merging Preclinical EPR Tomography with other Imaging Techniques
Authors: Gonet Michal , Epel Boris , Halpern Howard J. , Elas Martyna
Published: August 2019

This paper presents a survey of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) image registration. Image registration is the process of overlaying images (two or more) of the same scene taken at different times, from different viewpoints and/or different techniques. EPR-imaging (EPRI) techniques belong to the functional-imaging modalities and therefore suffer from a lack of anatomical reference which is mandatory in preclinical imaging. For this reason, it is necessary to merging EPR images with other modalities which allow for obtaining anatomy images. Methodological analysis and review of the literature were done, providing a summary for developing a good foundation for research study in this field which is crucial in understanding the existing levels of knowledge. Out of these considerations, the aim of this paper is to enhance the scientific community’s understanding of the current status of research in EPR preclinical image registration and also communicate to them the contribution of this research in the field of image processing.
The Revised Screening Scale for Pedophilic Interests (SSPI-2) May Be a Measure of Pedohebephilia
Authors: Stephens Skye , Seto Michael C. , Cantor James M. , Lalumière Martin L.
Published: August 2019

Introduction

The Revised Screening Scale for Pedophilic Interests (SSPI-2) was developed as a screening measure for pedophilia (sexual interest in prepubescent children), but the SSPI-2 items reflect offending against both prepubescent and pubescent children, roughly corresponding to victims under age 15.

Aim

We examined whether the SSPI-2 is better interpreted as a measure of pedohebephilia (sexual interest in both prepubescent and pubescent children) by reanalyzing the original SSPI-2 data and reporting its new psychometric properties.

Methods

The sample was comprised of 1,900 men whose clinical assessment data were entered into an archival database. All men in the sample had at least 1 child victim. Phallometric indices based on sexual responses to children relative to adults were used to classify individuals as having pedophilia only, hebephilia only (sexual interest in pubescent children), or pedohebephilia.

Main Outcome Measure

The 5 SSPI-2 items were scored based on official file information sent by the referral source and self-disclosures about offending history made during the assessment.

Results

The phallometric indices revealed that pedohebephilia was most frequently observed (24%), followed by hebephilia only (16%) and pedophilia only (1%). Classification accuracy analyses suggest that the SSPI-2 may be more appropriately interpreted as a measure of pedohebephilia than hebephilia only; there were too few cases of pedophilia only for classification analysis. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values are presented to assist users in selecting appropriate SSPI-2 cut-offs.

Clinical Implications

The SSPI-2 should be interpreted as a measure of pedohebephilia when used in clinical practice or research, and test users should select the most appropriate cut-off score based on their assessment context. Classification accuracy results are modest, and the scale may be most appropriately used in research or as a screening measure.

Strengths & Limitations

The study used a comprehensive clinical database with well-validated measures. A limitation is that the dataset did not contain other assessment measures of sexual interest in children, and we were unable to examine if the SSPI-2 could detect pedophilia only due to its low base rate.

Conclusion

The SSPI-2 may be best conceptualized as a measure of pedohebephilia. Further, there was significant overlap between pedophilia and hebephilia; pedophilia only was rarely observed.
Low-Intensity Shock Wave Therapy in Sexual Medicine—Clinical Recommendations from the European Society of Sexual Medicine (ESSM)
Authors: Capogrosso Paolo , Frey Anders , Jensen Christian Fuglesang S. , Rastrelli Giulia , Russo Giorgio I. , Torremade Josep , Albersen Maarten , Gruenwald Ilan , Reisman Yacov , Corona Giovanni
Published: August 2019

Introduction

Low-intensity shockwave therapy (LISWT) has been investigated for the treatment of uroandrological disorders including erectile dysfunction (ED), Peyronie’s disease (PD) and chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) with controversial findings.

Aim

To review the evidence on LISWT for ED, PD, and CP/CPPS and provide clinical recommendations on behalf of the European Society of Sexual Medicine.

Methods

Medline and Embase databases were searched for randomized clinical trials (RCTs), meta-analyses and open-label prospective or retrospective studies investigating the effect of LISWT on ED, PD, or CP/CPPS.

Outcomes

The panel provided statements on clinically relevant questions concerning LISWT: (i) treatment efficacy, (ii) treatment protocol, (iii) clinical indications, and (iv) safety. The level of evidence was provided according to the Oxford 2011 criteria and graded using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine recommendations.

Results

11 RCTs and 5 meta-analyses investigated LISWT for ED. RCTs provided controversial results on the efficacy of LISWT and were affected by high heterogeneity and the small number of patients included. Pooled-data analysis showed an overall positive effect in terms of erectile function improvement but reported small estimates and included a largely heterogeneous cohort of patients. 4 RCTs and 1 meta-analysis assessed LISWT for PD. All trials showed positive findings in terms of pain relief but no effect on penile curvature and plaque size. Inclusion criteria vary widely among studies, and further investigation is needed. 5 RCTs investigated LISWT for CP/CPPS. Data showed a possible effect on pain relief, although there is no evidence supporting that pain relief was maintained or any improvement in pain over time.

Clinical Implications

LISWT needs to be further investigated in the context of sexual medicine and is almost but not yet ready for clinical practice.

Strengths and limitations

All studies have been evaluated by a panel of experts providing recommendations for clinical practice.

Conclusions

LISWT is a safe and well-tolerated procedure but its efficacy for the treatment of ED is doubtful and deserves more investigation. Patients reporting pain associated with PD may benefit from LISWT, although no effect is expected on disease progression. LISWT is not a primary treatment for CP/CPPS, but it may be considered as an option to relieve pain.
The Impact of Federal Crop Insurance on the Conservation Reserve Program
Authors: DeLay Nathan
Published: August 2019

I directly estimate the acre-for-acre impact of crop insurance participation on Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) enrollment at the county level. The government may be sponsoring competing interests if subsidized insurance expands production at the expense of CRP. I employ an instrumental variables technique to correct for endogeneity in insurance decisions. Results suggest that an additional 1,000 acres insured reduces CRP enrollment by about three acres, though effect sizes vary by region. Local policy initiatives such as conservation compliance incentives could help offset local environmental consequences of converting land from CRP to insured production.
A Qualitative Study on the Transition Support Needs of Indigenous Australians Following Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Fitts Michelle S. , Bird Katrina , Gilroy John , Fleming Jennifer , Clough Alan R. , Esterman Adrian , Maruff Paul , Fatima Yaqoot , Bohanna India
Published: August 2019

Objective:

A growing body of qualitative literature globally describes post-hospital experiences during early recovery from a traumatic brain injury. For Indigenous Australians, however, little published information is available. This study aimed to understand the lived experiences of Indigenous Australians during the 6 months post-discharge, identify the help and supports accessed during transition and understand the gaps in service provision or difficulties experienced.

Methods and Procedure:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted at 6 months after hospital discharge to gain an understanding of the needs and lived experiences of 11 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians who had suffered traumatic brain injury in Queensland and Northern Territory, Australia. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results:

Five major themes were identified within the data. These were labelled ‘hospital experiences’, ‘engaging with medical and community-based supports’, ‘health and wellbeing impacts from the injury’, ‘everyday living’ and ‘family adjustments post-injury’.

Conclusions:

While some of the transition experiences for Indigenous Australians were similar to those found in other populations, the transition period for Indigenous Australians is influenced by additional factors in hospital and during their recovery process. Lack of meaningful interaction with treating clinicians in hospital, challenges managing direct contact with multiple service providers and the injury-related psychological impacts are some of the factors that could prevent Indigenous Australians from receiving the supports they require to achieve their best possible health outcomes in the long term. A holistic approach to care, with an individualised, coordinated transition support, may reduce the risks for re-admission with further head injuries.