bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morbidity in Klinefelter syndrome and the effect of testosterone treatment
Authors: Chang Simon , Skakkebæk Anne , Davis Shanlee M , Gravholt Claus H
Published: June 2020

Klinefelter syndrome (KS; 47,XXY) is the most common sex chromosome abnormality in males (150 per 100,000 males). The condition leads to hypergonadotropic hypogonadism and ever since the condition was described approximately 80 years ago, testosterone treatment has been the cornerstone in care for individuals with KS. However, KS is associated with an array of health‐related and socioeconomic challenges and it is becoming progressively clear that proper care for boys and men with KS reaches far beyond simply supplementing with testosterone. There are no widely implemented guidelines for KS care, and studies investigating crucial aspects of testosterone treatment in individuals with KS, including both beneficial and potentially adverse effects, have only begun to emerge during the last decades. For this descriptive review, we present an overview of literature describing health‐related outcomes of testosterone treatment in KS and outline the clinical applications of testosterone treatment in KS. Collectively, beneficial effects of testosterone treatment on overall health in KS are described with few apparent adverse effects. However, larger randomized studies in adult and pediatric patients are warranted to elucidate key aspects of treatment. We stress the implementation of centralized multidisciplinary clinics and the need for a dedicated international guideline to ensure optimal care of boys and men with KS.
Synthesis of C9‐C13 and C15‐C21 Subunits of Discodermolide
Authors: Si Debjani , Kaliappan Krishna P.
Published: June 2020

A new synthetic strategy for the construction of two polypropionate subunits of discodermolide, a highly potent anticancer natural product, is reported. The strategy relies on two key reactions: a Shimizu non‐aldol reaction, a stereoselective hydrogenolysis of alkenyl epoxides, to generate the syn hydroxy‐methyl moiety and a NaBH4‐BF3.OEt2 mediated hydride addition reaction. By utilizing this strategy, two different fragments of discodermolide, C9‐C13 subunit and C15‐C21 subunit have been successfully synthesized.
Traumatic brain injury‐related inflammatory projection: beyond local inflammatory responses
Authors: Hosomi Sanae , Ohnishi Mitsuo , Ogura Hiroshi , Shimazu Takeshi
Published: June 2020

Acute neuroinflammation induced by microglial activation is key for repair and recovery after traumatic brain injury (TBI) and could be necessary for the clearance of harmful substances, such as cell debris. However, recent clinical and preclinical data have shown that TBI causes chronic neuroinflammation, lasting many years in some cases, and leading to chronic neurodegeneration, dementia, and encephalopathy. To evaluate neuroinflammation in vivo, positron‐emission tomography has been used to target translocator protein, which is upregulated in activated glial cells. Such studies have suggested that remote neuroinflammation induced by regional microglia persists even after reduced inflammatory responses at the injury site. Furthermore, unregulated inflammatory responses are associated with neurodegeneration. Therefore, elucidation of the role of neuroinflammation in TBI pathology is essential for developing new therapeutic targets for TBI. Treatment of associated progressive disorders requires a deeper understanding of how inflammatory responses to injury are triggered, sustained, and resolved and how they impact neuronal function. In this review, we provide a general overview of the dynamics of immune responses to TBI, from acute to chronic neuroinflammation. We discuss the clinical significance of remote ongoing neuroinflammation, termed “brain injury‐related inflammatory projection”. We also highlight positron‐emission tomography imaging as a promising approach needing further development to facilitate an understanding of post‐TBI inflammatory and neurodegenerative processes and to monitor the clinical effects of corresponding new therapeutic strategies.
Impact of a dedicated emergency surgical service on appendicitis outcomes
Authors: Goh Serene Si Ning , Cheok Sabrina Hui Xian , Lim Woan Wui , Tan Kok Yang , Goo Tiong Thye
Published: June 2020

Aim

The Emergency Surgery and Trauma (ESAT) team is a dedicated consultant‐led service to streamline the emergency surgical workload in Singapore. As acute appendicitis is one of the most common acute surgical conditions, we aim to compare outcomes of patients with appendicitis in the ESAT model as compared to the traditional on‐call model.

Methods

A retrospective review of patients admitted to Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, with acute appendicitis between two periods: May–October 2014 (6 months pre‐ESAT) versus January–June 2017 (post‐ESAT). Patient demographics, operative details, efficiency, clinical outcomes, and hospital bill savings were evaluated.

Results

There were 192 patients in the pre‐ESAT period and 179 patients in the post‐ESAT period. Patient demographics and comorbidities were comparable (P > 0.05). Time from emergency department referral to surgical review was significantly reduced in the ESAT period: 77.8 ± 46.9 min versus 127 ± 102 in the pre‐ESAT period (P = 0.002). Time from case booking to operating theatre was significantly shorter in the ESAT period: 72.4 ± 55.2 min compared to 157.3 ± 209.1 (P < 0.01). More cases were carried out in the daytime during the ESAT period, 50.2% versus 39.1% (P = 0.029). The majority underwent laparoscopic appendectomy 156/179 (87.2%) in the ESAT period, with fewer open appendectomies 3/179 (1.7%) as compared to the pre‐ESAT period (P = 0.062). There were higher intraoperative consultant supervision rates during the ESAT period, 38/166 (22.9%) as compared to 12/166 (6.7%) in the pre‐ESAT period (P = 0.001). There were fewer complications (Clavien–Dindo grade II and above) in the ESAT period, 1 (0.6%) as compared to 6 (3.4%) pre‐ESAT (P = 0.07).

Conclusion

The ESAT service is associated with better efficiency outcomes for patients with acute appendicitis.
Radiologically Isolated Syndrome:10‐YearRisk Estimate of a Clinical Event
Authors: Lebrun‐Frenay Christine , Kantarci Orhun , Siva Aksel , Sormani Maria P. , Pelletier Daniel , Okuda Darin T. ,   for the 10‐year RISC study group on behalf of SFSEP, OFSEP
Published: June 2020

Objective

We have previously identified male sex, younger age, and the presence of spinal cord lesions as independent factors that increase the 5‐year risk for evolution from radiologically isolated syndrome (RIS) to multiple sclerosis. Here, we investigate risk factors for the development of a clinical event using a 10‐year, multinational, retrospectively identified RIS dataset.

Methods

RIS subjects were identified according to 2009 RIS criteria and followed longitudinally as part of a worldwide cohort study. We analyzed data from 21 individual databases from 5 different countries. Associations between clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics and the risk of developing a first clinical event were determined using multivariate Cox regression models.

Results

Additional follow‐up data were available in 277 of 451 RIS subjects (86% female). The mean age at RIS diagnosis was 37.2 years (range, 11–74 years), with a median clinical follow‐up of 6.7 years. The cumulative probability of a first clinical event at 10 years was 51.2%. Age, positive cerebrospinal fluid for oligoclonal bands, infratentorial lesions on MRI, and spinal cord lesions, were baseline independent predictors associated with a subsequent clinical event. The presence of gadolinium‐enhanced lesions during follow‐up was also associated with the risk of a seminal event. The reason for MRI and gadolinium‐enhancing lesions at baseline did not influence the risk of a subsequent clinical event.

Interpretation

Approximately half of all individuals with RIS experience a first clinical event within 10 years of the index MRI. The identification of independent predictors of risk for symptom onset may guide education and clinical management of individuals with RIS.ANN NEUROL 2020;88:407–417.
Ultracold Lattice Gas Automata for Single Trapped Ion Interacting with a Laser Field
Authors: Costantini G. , Zarezadeh Z.
Published: June 2020

In the same context of lattice gauge theory, a notion of cellular automaton (CA) is considered as a description of the underlying dynamics of fields evaluated on a discrete lattice. The explorative approach of this work is initiated by taking the automata evolution as an elementary description of fields dynamics on one side and pivotal role of locality on other side to connect the notion of states and transformations to density operators in quantum electrodynamics. In order to parameterize the definition of proposed model in the context of lattice field theory the nonlinear interaction is introduced with neighboring cells. In this paper, analytical and explicit expression of atomic density matrix for single trapped ion interacting with laser field based on cellular automata dynamics are discussed. The definition is further explored by introducing some probabilistic theories as the theoretical framework then it is concluded that the graph of cellular automata in continuum time limit of the CA dynamics leads to Maxwell–Bloch equation.
Synthesis of cis‐1,2‐diol‐type chiral ligands and their dioxaborinane derivatives: Application for the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of various ketones and biological evaluation
Authors: Kilic Ahmet , Balci Tuğba Ersayan , Arslan Nevin , Aydemir Murat , Durap Feyyaz , Okumuş Veysi , Tekin Recep
Published: June 2020

Two cis‐1,2‐diol‐type chiral ligands (T1 and T2) and their tri‐coordinated chiral dioxaborinane (T(1–2)B(1–2)) and four‐coordinated chiral dioxaborinane adducts with 4‐tert‐butyl pyridine sustained by N → B dative bonds (T(1–2)B(1–2)‐N) were synthesized and characterized by various spectroscopic techniques such as NMR (1H, 13C, and 11B), FT‐IR and UV–Vis spectroscopy, LC–MS/MS, and elemental analysis. It was suggested that both ferrocene and trifluoromethyl groups played key roles in the catalytic and biological studies because they could tune the solubility of the chiral dioxaborinane complexes and adjust the strength of intermolecular interactions. To assess the biological activities of newly synthesized chiral dioxaborinane compounds, DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging, reducing power, antibacterial, DNA binding, and DNA cleavage activities were tested. Then, all chiral dioxaborinane complexes were investigated as catalysts for the asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of various ketones under suitable conditions. The results indicated that the chiral dioxaborinane catalysts performed well with high yields.
Synergistic effect between CuCr2O4 nanoparticles and plasticizer on mechanical properties of EP/PU/CuCr2O4 nanocomposites: Experimental approach and molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Sarafrazi Marzieh , Ghasemi Ahmad Reza , Hamadanian Masood
Published: June 2020

In this research, copper chromite (CuCr2O4) nanoparticles (NPs) were synthesized by the sol–gel auto‐combustion method. The effects of CuCr2O4 NPs and polyurethane (PU) on the tensile strength of the epoxy (EP) resin were studied by considering different weight percentages (wt%). The response surface methodology (RSM) coupled with central composite design (CCD) (RSM/CCD) methods were also used to optimize the Young's modulus, yield strength, and ultimate tensile strength of the EP/PU/CuCr2O4 nanocomposites. The composition structure and morphology of the EP/PU/CuCr2O4 nanocomposites were determined using the Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction, UV–vis diffuse reflection, Scanning Electron Microscopy, X‐ray energy dispersive spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. It was also shown that the RSM/CCD methods could be utilized effectively to find the optimum process variables in the tensile test of the EP/PU/CuCr2O4 nanocomposites. Moreover, the tensile test revealed that the presence of the CuCr2O4 NPs in the EP/PU matrix improved the mechanical properties. Best results were obtained with the 0.76 wt% of the CuCr2O4 NPs and the 2.6 wt% PU in the epoxy resin. The molecular dynamic simulation was used to illustrate the effect of the NPs on the interaction energy and mechanical properties of this nanocomposite. The calculated interaction energy for the EP/PU/CuCr2O4 nanocomposites was −437.96 Kcal/mol. The results showed that Young's modulus had relative agreement with the experimental results.
Opening the black box of contact: Unravelling the ways through which positive contact is imagined in a post‐conflict context
Authors: Ioannou Maria , Panagiotou Elisavet
Published: June 2020

While there is growing support for the prejudice‐reduction effects of imagined contact, knowledge of the content of imagery in imagined contact studies remains scarce. This qualitative study aims to address this gap by unravelling the ways of imagining an intergroup encounter that is indeed positive. Our data consist of the imagined contact stories of 43 participants in two imagined contact studies conducted in Cyprus, a post‐conflict context characterised by low levels of contact because of long‐standing division across ethnic lines. Our analysis yielded four themes corresponding to four ways of construing positive contact: imagining a good Other, a similar Other, an inferior Other, as well as imagining successfully overcoming obstacles emerging before or during contact. While participants came up with ways to imagine positive contact that are consistent with intergroup contact literature (e.g., intergroup similarities, decategorisation), a closer look at the findings reveals that in composing a positive intergroup experience, participants made use of dysfunctional stereotypes and conflict‐perpetuating narratives whose objective is to protect their superior status and to ensure their safety during contact. The findings serve as a word of caution for imagined contact as a prejudice‐reduction intervention and they also attest to the importance of deeply knowing the psychological composition of the groups which (imagined) contact interventions typically aim to tackle.
Effect of a novel transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair device on the three‐dimensional geometry of mitral valve in degenerative mitral regurgitation
Authors: Ge Zhenyi , Pan Wenzhi , Zhou Daxin , Li Wei , Wei Lai , Liu Xianbao , Pu Zhaoxia , Shu Xianhong , Pan Cuizhen , Ge Junbo
Published: June 2020

Objectives

We sought to assess the acute intraprocedural effects of the ValveClamp system in DMR patients on the mitral valve (MV) three‐dimensional (3D) geometry and the association of these effects with mitral regurgitation (MR) reduction.

Background

Few data are available about the specific impact of transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair in patients with degenerative mitral regurgitation (DMR).

Methods

Thirty‐five symptomatic patients (age 74.26 ± 6.61 years) with Grade 3 to 4+ degenerative MR underwent 3D transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) during ValveClamp implantation. Volumetric data sets were retrospectively analyzed using mitral valve quantitative 3D modeling software.

Results

Mitral valve annular anterior–posterior (AP) diameter decreased from 33.24 ± 4.03 to 31.12 ± 3.66 mm (p < .001), and prolapse height from 4.78 ± 2.19 to 2.32 ± 1.92 mm (p < .001), and total exposed leaflet area from 1,110.29 ± 224.21 mm2 to 1,013.44 ± 228.71 mm (p = .004). Accordingly, we observed a significant reduction of MR severity after ValveClamp implantation. Multivariable analysis revealed postprocedural MR reduction was associated with shortening in anterior–posterior diameter (coefficient 0.427, p = .008) and reduction in prolapse height (coefficient 0.369, p = .021).

Conclusions

ValveClamp implantation exerts an acute effect on the 3D MV geometry. Postprocedural reduction in AP diameter and reduction in prolapse height correlates with MR downgrading in patients with degenerative MR.
Oral hyperpigmentation associated with hydroxyurea in a patient with polycythemia vera: A case report
Authors: Alshammasi Baneen , Albasry Zainab , Meshikhes Fatimah
Published: June 2020

Patients may report to health practitioners with unusual symptoms that necessitate a thorough examination and review of underlying medical conditions and medications for rare side effects. Hence, it is crucial to report such rare cases to raise awareness and increase the related body of knowledge. Hydroxyurea‐associated oral hyperpigmentation has been reported.
Development of Carbon‐Neutral Cellulose‐Supported Heterogeneous Palladium Catalysts for Chemoselective Hydrogenation
Authors: Yamada Tsuyoshi , Teranishi Wataru , Park Kwihwan , Jiang Jing , Tachikawa Takumu , Furusato Shinichi , Sajiki Hironao
Published: June 2020

Palladium catalysts immobilized on cellulose particles (Pd/CLP) and on a cellulose‐monolith (Pd/CLM) were developed. These composites were applied as hydrogenation catalysts and their catalyst activities were evaluated. Although both catalysts catalyzed the deprotection of benzyloxycarbonyl‐protected aromatic amines (Ar‐N‐Cbz) and aromatic benzyl esters (Ar‐CO2Bn), only Pd/CLM could accomplish the hydrogenolysis of aliphatic‐N‐Cbz and aliphatic‐CO2Bn protective groups. The difference in the physical structure of the cellulose supports induced unique chemoselectivity. Aliphatic‐N‐Cbz and aliphatic‐CO2Bn groups were tolerated under the Pd/CLP‐catalyzed hydrogenation conditions, while Ar‐N‐Cbz, Ar‐CO2Bn, alkene, alkyne, azido and nitro groups could be smoothly reduced.
No interest, no conflict
Authors: Stadler Walter M.
Published: June 2020

Financial conflicts of interest undoubtedly impact National Comprehensive Cancer Network and other guideline committee recommendations. Could a guideline committee rating system address not only biased recommendations but also the pragmatic issue that the most expert individuals are not likely to be free of conflicts?
Animal Models of Mycobacteria Infection
Authors: Chan Edward D. , Verma Deepshikha , Ordway Diane J.
Published: June 2020

This manuscript describes the infection of mice and guinea pigs with mycobacteria via various routes, as well as necropsy methods for the determination of mycobacterial loads within target organs. Additionally, methods for cultivating mycobacteria and preparing stocks are described. The protocols outlined are primarily used for M. tuberculosis, but can also be used for the study of other non‐tuberculosis mycobacterial species. A wide variety of animal models have been used to test new vaccines, drugs, and the impact of cigarette exposure. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Aerosol infection of mice with mycobacteria

Basic Protocol 2: Aerosol infection of guinea pig with mycobacteria using a Madison chamber

Alternate Protocol 1: Cigarette exposure prior to infection of mice with mycobacteria

Alternate Protocol 2: Intravenous infection of mice with mycobacteria

Basic Protocol 3: Necropsy methods for animals experimentally infected with mycobacteria

Basic Protocol 4: Following the course of infection

Basic Protocol 5: Measuring the animal immune response to infection

Support Protocol: Cultivation of mycobacteria for use in animal experiments
Chitosan‐based nanofragrance with antibacterial function applied to wallpaper
Authors: Zhang Tianlu , Lu Zhiguo , Yang Jun , Wang Jianze , Shen Jie , Wang Xiangyu , Xiao Zuobing , Niu Yunwei , Chen Lei , Zhang Xin
Published: June 2020

Adding fragrances to the wallpaper can optimize our living environment and office environment. However, the poor adhesion and rapid release of fragrances on wallpapers have limited their application. In this study, vanillin was encapsulated in particles based on chitosan and poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid), thereby achieving a slow release of the fragrance. In addition, due to the addition of chitosan, the adhesion of the fragrance on the wallpaper was enhanced, and the wallpaper was given antibacterial properties.
Disentanglement of Degradation Mechanisms by Analyzing Aging Dynamics of Environmentally Friendly Processed Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Alam Shahidul , Islam Md. Moidul , Chowdhury Shadia , Meitzner Rico , Kästner Christian , Schubert Ulrich S. , Hoppe Harald
Published: June 2020

Lifecycle assessments suggest preventing halogenated solvents or solvent additives for environmentally friendly polymer solar cells. Thus, the active layers of polymer:fullerene bulk heterojunction solar cells based on poly{[4,8‐bis‐(2‐ethyl‐hexyl‐thiophene‐5‐yl)‐benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b0]dithiophene‐2,6‐diyl]‐alt‐[2‐(20‐ethyl‐hexanoyl)‐thieno[3,4‐b]thiophen‐4,6‐diyl]} (PBDTTT‐CT) and the fullerene derivative [6,6]‐phenyl‐C70‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC70BM) are cast from m‐xylene solutions. Ortho‐vanilline is used as a nonhazardous and nontoxic solvent additive. Completed photovoltaic devices are subjected to accelerated laboratory weathering tests. Photovoltaic parameters are periodically obtained from current–voltage recordings of the solar cells twice an hour under well‐defined aging conditions following the International Summit on Organic Photovoltaic Stability (ISOS) protocols. An analysis of aging kinetics reveals the superposition of two individual degradation mechanisms, of which one is assigned to continued intermixing and the other one to the formation of a blocking layer by interfacial segregation.
Efficacy of Artemisia annua L. extract for recovery of acute liver failure
Authors: Park Chan Young , Choi Eunyong , Yang Hee‐Jin , Ho Seong Hyun , Park Su‐Jin , Park Ki‐Moon , Kim Seon‐Hee
Published: June 2020

Artemisia annua L. is an annual herb belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly grown in parts of Asia, including Korea and China, and is called by its nickname Gae‐ddong‐ssuk, or Chung‐ho. The herb is well known for its positive effects on fever and hemostasis, as well as its antibiotic effects. To evaluate the protective properties of A. annua L. on the liver, an acute liver failure animal model was set up with intraperitoneal injection of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and D‐galactosamine (D‐galN) in C57BL/6J mice, showing increased levels of AST (aspartate transaminase) and ALT (alanine transaminase). Oral administration of the extract of A. annua L. (EAA) for 2 weeks reduced the level of AST and ALT up to 50% of the levels in the negative control group treated with water vehicle. The efficacy of EAA was more effective than that in a comparative positive control group treated with milk thistle extract. Moreover, EAA protected hepatic cells and tissues from oxidative stresses and inflammatory damages, showing downregulation of inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α). We also found that LPS stimulated the mouse macrophage cell line, Raw264.7, and secreted a tremendous level of proinflammatory cytokines and the secretion of these cytokines was reduced with EAA treatment via downregulation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase phosphorylation and p65 translocation. This study demonstrated that A. annua L. extract is a promising treatment for protection against and recovery from liver damage, as well as maintenance of liver health.
Secular Trends and Geographic Maps of Hepatitis C Virus Infection among 4 Million Blood Donors in Taiwan from 1999 to 2017
Authors: Chen Yun‐Yuan , Chen Chi‐Ling , Chen Jen‐Wei , Hsu Nien‐Tzu , Wei Sheng‐Tang , Hou Sheng‐Mou , Lu Sheng‐Nan , Chen Pei‐Jer
Published: June 2020

The prevalence of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection in Taiwan was approximately 4% a decade ago, much higher than the worldwide average. This study aimed to assess the HCV burden among 4 million voluntary blood donors after 2 decades of prevention and treatment policies. We retrieved screening results for anti‐HCV and HCV RNA from the Database for Evaluating Voluntary Taiwanese Eligible Donors. First‐time blood donors who donated blood after 1999 and repeat donors who donated blood more than once between 2013 and 2017 were included to estimate HCV prevalence and incidence, respectively. The Cox proportional hazards model was used to estimate hazard ratios. Geographic variation in HCV prevalence and incidence in 364 townships was also analyzed. The prevalence study included 3,656,598 first‐time donors. The overall crude prevalence of anti‐HCV decreased from 15.5 to 4.5 per 1,000 donors between 1999 and 2017. Younger birth cohorts had a significantly lower prevalence of anti‐HCV. The majority of townships (64.3%) in Taiwan showed a significantly decreased prevalence. The incidence study included 1,393,014 repeat donors followed for 3,436,607 person‐years. Ninety‐eight donors seroconverted to HCV RNA positivity, resulting in an HCV incidence of 2.9 per 100,000 person‐years. Donors living in townships where HCV RNA prevalence was greater than 2 per 1,000 had at least 2.5‐fold greater risk of new HCV infection. Conclusion: HCV prevalence in Taiwanese first‐time blood donors decreased by 71% in the last 2 decades. However, townships with higher HCV prevalence also showed higher HCV incidence and require more active intervention.
The effects of paired kinesthetic movements on literacy skills acquisition with preschoolers
Authors: Lozy Erica D. , Holmes Sarah C. , Donaldson Jeanne M.
Published: June 2020

Students who fail to acquire foundational literacy skills during preschool are more likely to read below grade level average in elementary school and are at a heightened risk for future school failure, poverty, early mortality, and crime. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects and maintenance of and preference for paired kinesthetic movements (KM) to a traditional drill (TD) procedure on letter–sound correspondence and word recognition with 6 preschool children. In 6 of 11 evaluations, participants mastered the KM set in substantially fewer intervention sessions than the TD set. In 5 of 11 evaluations, participants mastered the KM and TD sets with little differentiation between the number of intervention sessions. No participant mastered the control set. Maintenance data demonstrate a higher number of correct responses for the KM condition across all weeks. Preference varied across participants and was not always consistent with the more effective intervention.
The role of adventitious reinforcement during differential reinforcement of other behavior: A systematic replication
Authors: Rey Catalina N. , Betz Alison M. , Sleiman Andressa A. , Kuroda Toshikazu , Podlesnik Christopher A.
Published: June 2020

Differential reinforcement of other behavior (DRO) is commonly used to decrease problem behavior by presenting reinforcers contingent upon the absence of a target response. Although it is well demonstrated that DROs decrease response rates, the processes producing these decreases are not well understood. The present study systematically replicated previous research assessing whether adventitious reinforcement of alternative behavior contributes to the effectiveness of DRO. We presented university students with two options on a computer and reinforced target responding on a variable‐ratio schedule. Next, we compared decreases in target‐response rates and any increases in alternative responding during DRO schedules versus yoked variable‐time schedules or extinction probes. DRO schedules resulted in the lowest target‐response rate and highest alternative‐response rate. These findings generally provide some support for the adventitious reinforcement of “other” behavior.
Negative reinforcer magnitude manipulations for treating escape‐maintained problem behavior
Authors: Rogalski Jacqueline P. , Roscoe Eileen M. , Fredericks Daniel W. , Mezhoudi Nabil
Published: June 2020

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the effects of different magnitudes of escape for compliance relative to the magnitudes of escape for problem behavior in a concurrent‐schedule arrangement. Three individuals who exhibited escape‐maintained problem behavior participated. A large differential magnitude condition (240‐s escape for compliance, 10‐s escape for problem behavior) was compared to equal (30‐s escape for compliance and problem behavior) and moderate differential magnitude (90‐s escape for compliance, 10‐s escape for problem behavior) conditions. The authors also evaluated the impact of correcting for reinforcer access time (i.e., time on escape intervals) on intervention interpretation. For all participants, problem behavior decreased during only the large differential magnitude condition, and including reinforcer access time in the overall session time did not affect interpretation of treatment outcomes. Providing larger escape magnitudes for compliance relative to problem behavior may facilitate treatment involving concurrent‐reinforcement schedules for escape‐maintained problem behavior.
The consecutive controlled case series: Design, data‐analytics, and reporting methods supporting the study of generality
Authors: Hagopian Louis P.
Published: June 2020

Single‐case experimental designs (SCEDs) have proven invaluable in research and practice because they are optimal for asking many experimental questions relevant to the analysis of behavior. The consecutive controlled case series (CCCS) is a type of study in which a SCED is employed in a series of consecutively encountered cases that undergo a common procedure or share a common characteristic. Additional design elements, data‐analytic, and reporting methods enable researchers to ask experimental questions relevant to the study of generality of procedures and processes. The current paper discusses the CCCS methodologies, including the retrospective, prospective, and randomized CCCS. These methodologies can be applied to examine the generality of clinical procedures (including their general efficacy, the limits of their generality, and variables that may mediate generality); study the epidemiology and phenomenology of clinical problems; and compare the efficacy of 2 clinical procedures within a randomized controlled trial combining SCEDs with randomized group designs.
Effects of time‐based administration of abstinence reinforcement targeting opiate and cocaine use
Authors: Toegel Forrest , Holtyn August F. , Subramaniam Shrinidhi , Silverman Kenneth
Published: June 2020

Polydrug use is a common problem among patients in opioid‐substitution treatment. Polydrug use has been reduced by administering abstinence‐reinforcement contingencies in a sequence, such that a single drug is targeted until abstinence is achieved, and then an additional drug is targeted. The present study examined effects of administering abstinence‐reinforcement contingencies sequentially based on time rather than on achieved abstinence. Participants accessed paid work (about $10/hr maximum) in the Therapeutic Workplace by providing urine samples 3 times per week. The urine samples were tested for opiates and cocaine. During an induction period, participants earned maximum pay independent of drug abstinence. Then, maximum pay depended upon urine samples that were negative for opiates. Two weeks later, maximum pay depended upon urine samples that were negative for both opiates and cocaine. Opiate and cocaine abstinence increased following administration of the respective contingencies. The time‐based administration of abstinence reinforcement increased opiate and cocaine abstinence.
Encapsulation of L‐dopa and catechol in bovine serum albumin nanocarrier using desolvation method and their in vitro release studies
Authors: Rafipour Aysan , Yari Abdollah , Farhadi Khalil , Pakdel Firouz Ghaderi
Published: June 2020

In the current study, the interaction between L‐dopa and bovine serum albumin (BSA) as well as catechol and BSA is investigated separately. In order to achieve the optimum values for encapsulated efficiency (EE), the content of crosslinker/BSA, organic/aqueous phase, drug/BSA, stirring rate, and pH were closely studied taking the advantage of Taguchi method. Particle characterization was carried out using transmission electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering techniques. The most appropriate catechol and L‐dopa nanoparticles in the size range of 100 nm and 65 nm, respectively, and at optimized conditions of drug/BSA = 0.1, pH = 7.4, crosslinker/BSA = 0.084, organic/aqueous phase = 4 and stirring rate 400 rpm were obtained. The most favorable EE (encapsulation efficiency) and LC (loading capacity) for L‐dopa and catechol was estimated to be 88.1% and 83.6%, respectively, and the calculated LC% was achieved 93.4% and 89.7% for L‐dopa and catechol, respectively. The chromatographic analyses results were also found to be in a good agreement with the obtained data for the calculated EE% and LC% values. in vitro release of loaded drugs from nanoparticles in phosphate‐buffered saline (pH = 7.4, incubated at 37 ± 0.5°C under stirring rate of 100 rpm) showed the release of 78% catechol and 89% L‐dopa during 480 min and 510 min, respectively.
Neutralizing BDNF and FGF2 injection into denervated skeletal muscle improve recovery after nerve repair
Authors: Rink Svenja , Chatziparaskeva Christina , Elles Luisa , Pavlov Stoyan , Nohroudi Klaus , Bendella Habib , Sarikcioglu Levent , Manthou Marilena , Dunlop Sarah , Gordon Tessa , Angelov Doychin N.
Published: June 2020

Background

After facial nerve injury and surgical repair in rats, recovery of vibrissal whisking is associated with a high proportion of mono‐innervated neuro‐muscular junctions (NMJs). Our earlier work with Sprague Dawley (SD)/Royal College of Surgeons (RCS) rats, which are blind and spontaneously restore NMJ‐monoinnervation and whisking, showed correlations between functional recovery and increase of fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF2) and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in denervated vibrissal muscles.

Methods

We used normally sighted rats (Wistar), in which NMJ‐polyinnervation is highly correlated with poor whisking recovery, and injected the vibrissal muscle levator labii superioris (LLS) with combinations of BDNF, anti‐BDNF, and FGF2 at different postoperative periods after facial nerve injury.

Results

Rats receiving anti‐BDNF+FGF2 showed low NMJ‐polyinnervation and best recovery of whisking amplitude.

Conclusions

Restoration of target reinnervation after peripheral nerve injury requires a complex mixture of trophic factors with a specific time course of availability for each of them.
Cardiac cine magnetic resonance fingerprinting for combined ejection fraction, T1 and T2 quantification
Authors: Hamilton Jesse I. , Jiang Yun , Eck Brendan , Griswold Mark , Seiberlich Nicole
Published: June 2020

This study introduces a technique called cine magnetic resonance fingerprinting (cine‐MRF) for simultaneous T1, T2 and ejection fraction (EF) quantification. Data acquired with a free‐running MRF sequence are retrospectively sorted into different cardiac phases using an external electrocardiogram (ECG) signal. A low‐rank reconstruction with a finite difference sparsity constraint along the cardiac motion dimension yields images resolved by cardiac phase. To improve SNR and precision in the parameter maps, these images are nonrigidly registered to the same phase and matched to a dictionary to generate T1 and T2 maps. Cine images for computing left ventricular volumes and EF are also derived from the same data. Cine‐MRF was tested in simulations using a numerical relaxation phantom. Phantom and in vivo scans of 19 subjects were performed at 3 T during a 10.9 seconds breath‐hold with an in‐plane resolution of 1.6 x 1.6 mm2 and 24 cardiac phases. Left ventricular EF values obtained with cine‐MRF agreed with the conventional cine images (mean bias −1.0%). Average myocardial T1 times in diastole/systole were 1398/1391 ms with cine‐MRF, 1394/1378 ms with ECG‐triggered cardiac MRF (cMRF) and 1234/1212 ms with MOLLI; and T2 values were 30.7/30.3 ms with cine‐MRF, 32.6/32.9 ms with ECG‐triggered cMRF and 37.6/41.0 ms with T2‐prepared FLASH. Cine‐MRF and ECG‐triggered cMRF relaxation times were in good agreement. Cine‐MRF T1 values were significantly longer than MOLLI, and cine‐MRF T2 values were significantly shorter than T2‐prepared FLASH. In summary, cine‐MRF can potentially streamline cardiac MRI exams by combining left ventricle functional assessment and T1‐T2 mapping into one time‐efficient acquisition.
A review of environmentally friendly rubber production using different vegetable oils
Authors: Sovtić Novica , Predrag Kojić S. , Bera Oskar J. , Pavličević Jelena M. , Govedarica Olga M. , Jovičić Mirjana C. , Govedarica Dragan D.
Published: June 2020

Vegetable oils were investigated as plasticizers to improve the sustainability of rubber compounding. The potential use of different vegetable oils as an alternative to petroleum‐based rubber process oils was reviewed. This article presents a literature review on the current understanding of the influence of vegetable oil properties on natural rubber (NR) compounding. Hansen solubility parameters of the vegetable oils were determined to assist with the selection of vegetable oil for NR. We believe that the use of Hansen parameters could make the use of vegetable oils in rubber more convenient and cost‐effective.
Tracing Personality Structure in Narratives: A Computational Bottom–Up Approach to Unpack Writers, Characters, and Personality in Historical Context
Authors: Fischer Ronald , Karl Johannes Alfons , Luczak–Roesch Markus , Fetvadjiev Velichko H. , Grener Adam
Published: June 2020

We present a new method for personality assessment at a distance to uncover personality structure in historical texts. We focus on how two 19th century authors understood and described human personality; we apply a new bottom–up computational approach to extract personality dimensions used by Jane Austen and Charles Dickens to describe fictional characters in 21 novels. We matched personality descriptions using three person–description dictionaries marker scales as reference points for interpretation. Factor structures did not show strong convergence with the contemporary Big Five model. Jane Austen described characters in terms of social and emotional richness with greater nuances but using a less extensive vocabulary. Charles Dickens, in contrast, used a rich and diverse personality vocabulary, but those descriptions centred around more restricted dimensions of power and dominance. Although we could identify conceptually similar factors across the two authors, analyses of the overlapping vocabulary between the two authors suggested only moderate convergence. We discuss the utility and potential of automated text analysis and the lexical hypothesis to (i) provide insights into implicit personality models in historical texts and (ii) bridge the divide between idiographic and nomothetic perspectives. © 2020 European Association of Personality Psychology
Modeling of light scattering and haze in semicrystalline polymers
Authors: Molnár János , Sepsi Örs , Erdei Gábor , Lenk Sándor , Ujhelyi Ferenc , Menyhárd Alfréd
Published: June 2020

This article reports a new model approach for the description of light scattering in semicrystalline polymers, to describe more precisely the influence of supermolecular structure on the optical properties. This is the first study in which light scattering of polymer films has been modeled using exact Mie scattering theory of radially anisotropic spheres. As a model material a well‐known polymer, isotactic polypropylene (iPP) was used. Samples were prepared with different sample thicknesses and crystalline structures in order to identify the key parameters of light scattering in polycrystalline polymeric systems. Validation haze measurements were carried out with a spectrophotometer equipped with a 150 mm snap‐in integrating sphere. It was found that the optical properties of the polycrystalline sample can be described using multiple light scattering on these scattering centers. Good agreement was found between the simulated and experimentally measured haze values which proves the reliability and applicability of our new approach.
Power to the outsiders: External hiring and decision authority allocation within organizations
Authors: Hong Bryan
Published: June 2020

Research Summary

This study examines the relationship between external hiring and the allocation of decision authority within organizations, and how they interact to affect organizational change and innovation. We test our hypotheses using panel data for a nationally representative sample of businesses in Canada. We find that the practice of external hiring of managers and high‐skilled nonmanagerial employees predicts greater decision authority allocated to each respective level of the hierarchy. Reallocation of authority is positively moderated by the strategic priority of (a) workplace reorganization for managerial hiring, and (b) new product development for nonmanagerial hiring. We also find evidence of related associations with workplace reorganization and product innovation. The findings suggest that decision authority allocation is essential to effectively utilize externally acquired human capital.

Managerial Summary

This study examines how the effectiveness of hiring managers and high‐skilled nonmanagerial employees from outside the firm is related to how much decision authority they are granted. We show that for both types of employees, external hiring predicts greater decision authority allocated to each respective level of the organization. For managers, external hiring predicts a greater likelihood of organizational change when more decision authority is granted. Similarly, for high‐skilled nonmanagerial employees, external hiring predicts the development of more novel innovations when more decision authority is given. Overall, the results suggest that hiring talent from outside the firm by itself is not sufficient to expect benefits to the organization—instead, firms must also empower outside hires with the authority needed to translate their knowledge into performance.
Experimental investigation and comparison of prestressed single‐layer and repaired two‐layer reinforced concrete beams
Authors: Iskhakov Iakov , Ribakov Yuri , Holschemacher Klaus , Kaeseberg Stefan
Published: June 2020

This study continues a series of theoretical and experimental investigation of two‐layer beams (TLBs), performed by the authors. Such beams consist of normal strength concrete (NSC) layer in the tensile zone and steel fibered high strength concrete (SFHSC) in the compressed one. The present research is focused on comparison of prestressed single layer beam and three repaired prestressed two‐layer beams. The research includes experimental investigation of full‐scale simple supported beams under four‐point bending. A TLB represents possibility of strengthening by addition of high strength steel fibered concrete layer. Therefore, nonrepaired beam section height is equal to that of the NSC layer in repaired ones. All prestressed specimens with equal section height were produced at real industrial conditions. After that, a SFHSC layer was added in laboratory conditions to obtain three identical TLBs (one single‐layer beam was used as a control specimen). The main aim of the research is to study the effect of repairing, using a SFHSC layer on load‐bearing capacity. All specimens were tested from initial loading up to failure. The study was focused on cracking and deflections in TLBs, compared to single‐layer one. It was found that initial cracks' development in the investigated beams starts at same mid span deflection, but the corresponding load in the repaired beams is about 50% higher, compared to the control specimen. Additionally, proper interaction between the layers without de‐bonding was verified. The load bearing capacity in the control specimen is about 77% lower, compared to the repaired ones. Results, obtained in the present study, enable to recommend using SFHSC layer for strengthening prestressed beams. This method is a promising way for repairing existing elements and creating attractive structural systems.
Male sexual disorders: options for psychotherapeutic treatment
Authors: Mathews Emma
Published: June 2020

Psychosexual therapy can be a valuable addition to the management of male sexual problems. Encouraging men to consult on such issues is another matter, however.
Commuting Involution Graphs for 4-Dimensional Projective Symplectic Groups
Authors: Everett Alistaire , Rowley Peter
Published: June 2020

For a group G and X a subset of G the commuting graph of G on X, denoted by $$\mathcal {C}(G,X)$$

C
(
G
,
X
)

, is the graph whose vertex set is X with $$x,y\in X$$

x
,
y
∈
X

joined by an edge if $$x\ne y$$

x
≠
y

and x and y commute. If the elements in X are involutions, then $$\mathcal {C}(G,X)$$

C
(
G
,
X
)

is called a commuting involution graph. This paper studies $$\mathcal {C}(G,X)$$

C
(
G
,
X
)

when G is a 4-dimensional projective symplectic group over a finite field and X a G-conjugacy class of involutions, determining the diameters and structure of the discs of these graphs.
Lewis Number Effects on Flame Speed Statistics in Spherical Turbulent Premixed Flames
Authors: Ozel-Erol G. , Klein M. , Chakraborty N.
Published: June 2020

The influences of characteristic Lewis number$$ \hbox{Le} $$Leon the statistics of density-weighted displacement speed and consumption speed in spherically expanding turbulent premixed flames have been analysed using three-dimensional direct numerical simulations data for$$ \hbox{Le} = 0.8 $$Le=0.8, 1.0 and 1.2 under statistically similar flow conditions. It has been found that the extents of flame wrinkling and burning increase with decreasing$$ \hbox{Le} $$Le, which is reflected in increasing trends of mean and most probable values of both density-weighted displacement and consumption speed. Moreover, in all cases the marginal probability density functions of density-weighted displacement speed show finite probabilities of obtaining negative values, whereas consumption speed remains deterministically positive. The strain rate and curvature dependences of scalar gradient and temperature have been found to be strongly dependent on$$ \hbox{Le} $$Le, and these statistics, along with the interrelation between strain rate and curvature, influence the local strain rate and curvature responses of consumption speed and both reaction and normal diffusion components of density-weighted displacement speed. Density-weighted displacement speed and curvature have been found to be negatively correlated, whereas positive correlations are obtained between density-weighted displacement speed and tangential strain rate for all flames considered here. The positive correlation between temperature and curvature arising from differential diffusion of heat and mass in the$$ \hbox{Le} = 0.8 $$Le=0.8case induces a positive correlation between consumption speed and curvature, whereas these correlations are negative in the$$ \hbox{Le} = 1.2 $$Le=1.2flame. The statistical behaviour of density-weighted displacement speed has been utilised to demonstrate that Damköhler’s first hypothesis does not strictly hold for spherically expanding turbulent premixed flames.
A Cultural Sociology of Populism
Authors: Morgan Marcus
Published: June 2020

This article interrogates dominant definitions of “populism” found in the social sciences, focusing on the term’s conceptual utility in understanding recent changes in Western polities. Though populism is typically treated as a deviant form of politics, this article finds that it in fact holds remarkable continuities with conventional politics, and indeed culture more generally. It argues that these more general cultural processes can be illuminated by cultural sociology, just as the more specific but still routine political processes can be illuminated by Civil Sphere Theory (CST). The article goes on to argue that when populism is understood as a formal mode of public signification, rather than a substantive ideology, the substance it signifies becomes crucial to determining its civility. It suggests that while populism can certainly have anti-civil effects, there is nothing inherent in it that precludes it from also acting to promote civil repair.