bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hearing‐impaired population performance and the effect of hearing interventions on Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA): Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Utoomprurkporn Nattawan , Woodall Katherine , Stott Joshua , Costafreda Sergi G. , Bamiou Doris Eva
Published: May 2020

Background

Older adults are at high risk of developing age‐related hearing loss (HL) and/or cognitive impairment. However, cognitive screening tools rely on oral administration of instructions and stimuli that may be impacted by HL. This systematic review aims to investigate (a) whether people with HL perform worse than those without HL on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), a widely used screening tool for cognitive impairment, and what the effect size of that difference is (b) whether HL treatment mitigates the impact of HL.

Method

We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis including studies that reported mean MoCA scores and SDs for individuals with HL.

Results

People with HL performed significantly worse on the MoCA (4 studies, N = 533) with a pooled mean difference of −1.66 points (95% confidence interval CI ‐2.74 to −0.58). There was no significant difference in MoCA score between the pre‐ vs post‐hearing intervention (3 studies, N = 75). However, sensitivity analysis in the cochlear implant studies (2 studies, N = 33) showed improvement of the MoCA score by 1.73 (95% CI 0.18 to 3.28).

Conclusion

People with HL score significantly lower than individuals with normal hearing on the standard orally administered MoCA. Clinicians should consider listening conditions when administering the MoCA and report the hearing status of the tested individuals, if known, taking this into account in interpretation or make note of any hearing difficulty during consultations which may warrant onward referral. Cochlear implants may improve the MoCA score of individuals with HL, and more evidence is required on other treatments. J Am Geriatr Soc 68:‐, 2020.
Numerical working memory alters alpha‐beta oscillations and connectivity in the parietal cortices
Authors: Koshy Sam M. , Wiesman Alex I. , Proskovec Amy L. , Embury Christine M. , Schantell Mikki D. , Eastman Jacob A. , Heinrichs‐Graham Elizabeth , Wilson Tony W.
Published: May 2020

Although the neural bases of numerical processing and memory have been extensively studied, much remains to be elucidated concerning the spectral and temporal dynamics surrounding these important cognitive processes. To further this understanding, we employed a novel numerical working memory paradigm in 28 young, healthy adults who underwent magnetoencephalography (MEG). The resulting data were examined in the time‐frequency domain prior to image reconstruction using a beamformer. Whole‐brain, spectrally‐constrained coherence was also employed to determine network connectivity. In response to the numerical task, participants exhibited robust alpha/beta oscillations in the bilateral parietal cortices. Whole‐brain statistical comparisons examining the effect of numerical manipulation during memory‐item maintenance revealed a difference centered in the right superior parietal cortex, such that oscillatory responses during numerical manipulation were significantly stronger than when no manipulation was necessary. Additionally, there was significantly reduced cortico‐cortical coherence between the right and left superior parietal regions during the manipulation compared to the maintenance trials, indicating that these regions were functioning more independently when the numerical information had to be actively processed. In sum, these results support previous studies that have implicated the importance of parietal regions in numerical processing, but also provide new knowledge on the spectral, temporal, and network dynamics that serve this critical cognitive function during active working memory maintenance.
Entropy generation in an unsteady Eyring‐Powell hybrid nanofluid flow over a permeable surface: A Lie group analysis
Authors: Ogunseye Hammed Abiodun , Tijani Yusuf Olatunji , Sibanda Precious
Published: May 2020

In thermal processes, the choice of the thermofluid plays an essential role in minimizing entropy generation and thereby improving thermal efficiency. In this study, entropy generation in a viscous hybrid nanofluid described by the Eyring‐Powell model is investigated. The model accounts for the effect of the nanoparticle volume fraction and viscous dissipation on an Eyring‐Powell Cu‐Al2O3/ethylene glycol nanofluid. A similarity solution to the time‐dependent model is found using the Lie group symmetry technique. The bivariate spectral quasi‐linearization method is used for the solution of the self‐similar transport equations. We analyze the effects of the nanoparticle volume fraction, suction/injection, and viscous dissipation on the fluid properties. The skin friction and Nusselt number are determined. A comparison between the Nusselt number of a regular nanofluid and a hybrid nanofluid shows that the hybrid nanofluid has better thermal characteristics compared with the regular nanofluid. The findings show that a decrease in the nanoparticle volume fraction and Eckert number minimizes entropy generation in the system.
Evolutionary links between intra‐ and extracellular acid–base regulation in fish and other aquatic animals
Authors: Tresguerres Martin , Clifford Alexander M. , Harter Till S. , Roa Jinae N. , Thies Angus B. , Yee Daniel P. , Brauner Colin J.
Published: May 2020

The acid–base relevant molecules carbon dioxide (CO2), protons (H+), and bicarbonate (HCO3−) are substrates and end products of some of the most essential physiological functions including aerobic and anaerobic respiration, ATP hydrolysis, photosynthesis, and calcification. The structure and function of many enzymes and other macromolecules are highly sensitive to changes in pH, and thus maintaining acid–base homeostasis in the face of metabolic and environmental disturbances is essential for proper cellular function. On the other hand, CO2, H+, and HCO3− have regulatory effects on various proteins and processes, both directly through allosteric modulation and indirectly through signal transduction pathways. Life in aquatic environments presents organisms with distinct acid–base challenges that are not found in terrestrial environments. These include a relatively high CO2 relative to O2 solubility that prevents internal CO2/HCO3− accumulation to buffer pH, a lower O2 content that may favor anaerobic metabolism, and variable environmental CO2, pH and O2 levels that require dynamic adjustments in acid–base homeostatic mechanisms. Additionally, some aquatic animals purposely create acidic or alkaline microenvironments that drive specialized physiological functions. For example, acidifying mechanisms can enhance O2 delivery by red blood cells, lead to ammonia trapping for excretion or buoyancy purposes, or lead to CO2 accumulation to promote photosynthesis by endosymbiotic algae. On the other hand, alkalinizing mechanisms can serve to promote calcium carbonate skeletal formation. This nonexhaustive review summarizes some of the distinct acid–base homeostatic mechanisms that have evolved in aquatic organisms to meet the particular challenges of this environment.
Influenza vaccination coverage in Chiburijima Island, Japan: Impact of diversification of vaccination place
Authors: Itamochi Takuya , Mieno Makiko , Hatakeyama Shuji
Published: May 2020

Background

To increase the influenza vaccination rate in Chiburijima Island, we diversified vaccination places from a single clinic to the seven town halls from all the districts.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed influenza vaccination coverage, vaccinees' district of residence, and location of vaccination place, from prevaccination screening questionnaires between October 2007 and March 2018. Except for home‐visiting vaccination services, before 2011, influenza vaccination was provided only at a single clinic; after 2012, it was provided at the seven town halls in addition to the clinic. We calculated the vaccination rates among residents of Chiburijima Island, stratified by age groups and districts of residence.

Results

Estimated influenza vaccination rates for all ages increased from 38% in 2007 to 58% in 2017. There was a 14% increase in coverage in 2010 (the year following the 2009 H1N1 pandemic) and a slight increasing trend after 2012. The vaccination coverage of residents, particularly of people ≥65 years old and living >1 km from the former vaccination place, increased after diversification of the vaccination place.

Conclusions

Influenza vaccination rate in Chiburijima Island increased by 20% between 2007 and 2017, although the rate among the elderly Japanese people decreased by 4% based on the national data of routine immunization. Shortening the distance to vaccination places might improve the coverage as elderly people are often restricted due to transportation means. Sustained and multifaceted strategies are necessary for better immunization coverage.
Antagonism of peripheral opioid receptors by methylnaltrexone does not prevent morphine tolerance in rats
Authors: Blomqvist Kim Juhani , Dudek Katarzyna Anna , Viisanen Hanna , Mätlik Kert , Ahlström Fredrik Harry Gustav , Laitila Jouko , Kalso Eija Anneli , Rauhala Pekka Veli , Lilius Tuomas Olavi
Published: May 2020

Opioids are effective analgesics in the management of severe pain. However, tolerance, leading to dose escalation and adverse effects are significant limiting factors in their use. The role of peripheral opioid receptors in analgesia has been discussed especially under inflammatory conditions. The results from pharmacological and conditional knockout studies together do not provide a clear picture of the contribution of peripheral opioid receptors on antinociceptive tolerance and this needs to be evaluated. Therefore, we studied whether the peripherally restricted opioid receptor antagonist, methylnaltrexone (MNTX), could prevent morphine tolerance without attenuating the antinociceptive effect of morphine. Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were treated for 7 days with increasing subcutaneous doses of morphine (5–30 mg/kg) and were coadministered saline, MNTX (0.5 or 2 mg/kg), or naltrexone (NTX; 2 mg/kg). Nociception was assessed with tail‐flick, hotplate, and von Frey tests. Morphine, MNTX, and NTX concentrations in the plasma, brain, and spinal cord were measured by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. In acute coadministration, NTX, but not MNTX, abolished the acute antinociceptive effects of morphine in all nociceptive tests. The antinociceptive tolerance after repeated morphine administration was also prevented by NTX but not by MNTX. MNTX penetrated to the spinal cord and the brain to some extent after repeated administration. The results do not support the use of MNTX for preventing opioid tolerance and also suggest that morphine tolerance is mediated by central rather than peripheral opioid receptors in the rat.
Lagrangian simulations of moisture sources for Chinese Xinjiang precipitation during 1979–2018
Authors: Yao Shibo , Jiang Dabang , Zhang Zhongshi
Published: May 2020

In this study, the Flexible Particle Dispersion Model (FLEXPART) is employed to simulate the trajectories of global air parcels from March 1979 to February 2018 to analyse the moisture sources of precipitation over Xinjiang in China. The results show that more than 90% of the moisture can be tracked when the backtracking time is set to 10 days. There are three similar moisture transport paths in winter and summer, namely, the Mediterranean–Caspian Sea–Balkhash Lake path, the Eastern European Plain–Western Siberian Plain–Balkhash Lake path, and the Arabian Peninsula–Iranian Plateau–Pamir Plateau path. Besides, there is one more path in summer: the Indian Ocean–Indian Peninsula–Pamir Plateau. The paths of moisture transport in spring (autumn) are similar to those in winter (summer). In summer, the contribution rate of Xinjiang itself and Central Asia accounts for more than 80%, among which the local contributions account for 52%. In the other three seasons, Xinjiang, Central Asia, North Africa–Arabian Peninsula, and South Asia are the main sources of moisture. The contribution rates of moisture uptake in the source regions other than Central Asia vary greatly with the seasons. The interannual variation of contribution rate to precipitation of each source region is limited. Regionally, the moisture source distribution for southern Xinjiang resembles those of the whole Xinjiang; for the northern Xinjiang, the contribution of Central Asia becomes more important.
Locomotion replacement exercise cannot counteract cartilage biomarker response to 5 days of immobilization in healthy adults
Authors: Liphardt Anna‐Maria , Mündermann Annegret , Heer Martina , Achtzehn Silvia , Niehoff Anja , Mester Joachim
Published: May 2020

Biomarkers of cartilage metabolism are sensitive to changes in the biological and mechanical environment and can indicate early changes in cartilage homeostasis. The purpose of this study was to determine if a daily locomotion replacement program can serve as a countermeasure for changes in cartilage biomarker serum concentration caused by immobilization. Ten healthy male subjects (mean ± 1 standard deviation; age: 29.4 ± 5.9 years; body mass: 77.7 ± 4.1 kg) participated in the crossover 5‐day bed rest study with three interventions: control (CON), standing (STA), and locomotion replacement training (LRT). Serum samples were taken before, during, and after bed rest. Biomarker concentrations were measured using commercial enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) levels after 24 hours of bed rest decreased independently of the intervention (−16.8% to −9.8%) and continued to decrease until 72 hours of bed rest (minimum, −23.2% to −20.6%). LRT and STA did not affect COMP during bed rests (P = .056) but there was a strong tendency for a slower decrease with LRT (−9.4%) and STA (−11.7%) compared with CON (−16.8%). MMP‐3 levels decreased within the first 24 hours of bed rest (CON: −22.3%; STA: −14.7%; LRT: −17%) without intervention effect. Both COMP and MMP‐3 levels recovered to baseline levels during the 6‐day recovery period. MMP‐1, MMP‐9, and TNF‐α levels were not affected by immobilization or intervention. COMP and MMP‐3 are mechano‐sensitive cartilage biomarkers affected by immobilization, and simple interventions such as standing upright or LRT during bed rest cannot prevent these changes. Clinical significance: simple locomotion interventions cannot prevent cartilage biomarker change during bed rest.
Sensitivity of total knee replacement wear to variability in motion and load input: A parametric finite element analysis study
Authors: Mell Steven P. , Wimmer Markus A. , Lundberg Hannah J.
Published: May 2020

Polyethylene wear remains a contributor to long term failure in total knee replacements (TKRs). Advances in materials have improved polyethylene wear rates, therefore further wear reductions require a better understanding of patient‐specific factors that lead to wear. Variability of gait within patients is considerable and could lead to significant variability in wear rates that cannot be predicted by standard testing methods. An in‐silico study was performed to investigate the influence of gait variability on TKR polyethylene wear. Nine characteristic peaks within the load and motion profiles used for TKR wear testing were varied 75% to 125% from baseline (ISO‐14243‐3:2014) to generate 310 unique waveforms. Wear was calculated for 1‐million cycles using a finite element TKR wear model. From the results, a surrogate model was developed using multiple linear regression, and used to predict how wear changes due to dispersion of motion and force peaks within a) ±5%, the maximum allowable input tolerance of ISO, and b) ±25%, more reflective of patient gait inter‐variability. The range of wear within the ±5% tolerance was 0.65 mm3/million cycles and was 3.24 mm3/million cycles within the ±25% variability more in line with the dispersion observed within patients. Although no one kinematic or kinetic peak dominated variability in TKR volumetric wear, variability within flexion/extension peaks were the largest contributor to wear rate variability. Interaction between the peaks of different waveforms was also important. This study, and future studies incorporating patient‐specific data, could help to explain the connection between patient‐specific gait factors and wear rates.
Women academics in tourism: A cross‐gender study in Turkey
Authors: Aksatan Manolya , Gunlu Ebru , Kozak Metin
Published: May 2020

This study aims to accomplish three objectives: (a) to reveal the reasons why women academics prefer tourism academia; (b) to examine the experiences and perceptions of gender (in)equality of women academics; (c) to determine the cultural, social and family‐based variables affecting the careers of women academics. The study is based on three steps by the application of triangulation method including interviews and focus groups. Study findings suggest that the academia is an attractive environment for women to escape from the industry despite the former brings several problems in taking steps for maintaining their career‐based responsibilities.
Estimating the tourism‐induced province‐specific environmental Kuznets curve: Evidence from panel analyses of Chinese provinces
Authors: Chan Ying Tung , Wong Yat Fung
Published: May 2020

This article estimates province‐specific tourism‐induced environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) in China by using both standard panel data regression and a panel vector error correction model. We validate the EKC hypothesis in the long run but not in the short run, and show that tourism development reduces per capita CO2 inventory. We add to previous research by allowing for heterogeneous impacts of tourism development on CO2 level. Incorporating these heterogeneity effects changes the estimated turning point for EKC significantly. Additionally, it is found that all provinces are still on the increasing part of the EKC, contrasting the existing results.
Ultrasound Findings in Less Frequent Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Authors: Bianchi Stefano , Hoffman Douglas F. , Tamborrini Giorgio , Poletti Pierre‐Alexandre
Published: May 2020

The most common etiology of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is idiopathic. However, secondary causes of CTS should be considered when symptoms are unilateral, or electrodiagnostic studies are discrepant with the clinical presentation. Imaging of the carpal tunnel should be performed when secondary causes of CTS are suspected. An ultrasound evaluation of the carpal tunnel can assess for pathologic changes of the median nerve, detect secondary causes of CTS, and aid in surgical planning.
Whole exome sequencing identifies clinically relevant mutational signatures in resected hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chan Jason Y. , Lim Abner H. , Boot Arnoud , Lee Elizabeth , Ng Cedric C.‐Y. , Lee Jing Y. , Rajasegaran Vikneswari , Liu Wei , Goh Shane , Hong Jing H. , Xu Xiaoying , Bharwani Lavina D. , Chan Chung Y. , Chung Alexander Y. F. , Cheow Peng C. , Tan Chee‐Kiat , Ho Choon K. , Liau Kui H. , Woon Winston W. L. , Low Jee K. , Chopra Akhil , Lopes Gilberto , Rozen Steven G. , Teh Bin T. , Chang Alex Y.‐C.
Published: May 2020

Background & Aims

Most patients develop recurrent disease despite curative surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). No standard adjuvant therapy is available and molecular predictors of outcome are poorly understood.

Methods

We conducted a multicentre pilot study on patients with localized HCC following surgical resection. Patients received up to 6 months of oral gefitinib as adjuvant therapy. Clinical end points included recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS), and exploratory analyses were conducted from whole exome sequencing data.

Results

A total of 65 patients were screened for the study, of which 40 were eligible. The median age was 63 years (range, 44‐80). Most patients (80%) were positive for hepatitis B or C. With a median follow‐up of 4.5 years, the median RFS was 24 months. Median OS was not reached. High Child‐Pugh score and advanced T‐stage (3‐4) were independent predictors for both OS and RFS. Mutational signatures for exposure to aristolochic acid (AA), as characterized by a majority of T:A > A:T mutations, were observed in 18 cases (55%). HCC without AA mutagenesis was associated with early recurrences or death within 2 years of surgery (P = .037). HCC with high T > A mutations was associated with better OS (HR 0.29, 95% CI 0.09‐0.90, P = .033). Conversely, HCC with high C > T mutations was associated with worse OS (HR 4.55, 95% CI 1.20‐17.31, P = .026).

Conclusions

Mutational signatures may carry prognostic significance in HCC following curative resection. Patient outcomes with gefitinib as adjuvant therapy after resection for HCC were modest, highlighting the need for urgent research in this area of unmet clinical need. ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00282100.
Polyvinyl Alcohol–Supported AuAgNCs‐CDs Film as a Selective Sensor for Gas Hydrogen Sulfide Detection in Air
Authors: Zhang Chun‐Xia , Li Hong‐Wei , Wu Yuqing
Published: May 2020

A novel strategy is reported for the synthesis of glutathione (GSH)‐protected bimetallic nanoclusters, Au‐AgNCs@GSH, and its fabrication with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) into a film sensor for H2S gas detection. Meanwhile, carbon dots (CDs) synthesized from polyethyleneimine (PEI) are introduced as an internal standard to correct the photobleaching of Au‐AgNCs@GSH and uniformity of film. The joining of it greatly improves the chemical and structural stability of the composite film via multi cross‐linking between PEI, PVA, and GSH. The PVA‐AuAgNCs‐CDs film exhibits an emission‐quenching response to H2S gas at atmosphere, which is highly repeatable, fast, sensitive, and can distinguish H2S from other poisonous gases. Finally, the in‐depth mechanism investigations reveal that the quenching response is attributed to decomposition of Au‐AgNCs@GSH and the formation of Au2S and Ag2S in the composite film. As a sensor, the PVA‐supported film combines the functions of fluorescent metal nanoclusters and polymer CDs, providing a portable device for the rapid detection of H2S gas in air.
A Polydiacetylene‐Based Colorimetric Sensor as an Active Use‐By Date for Plant‐Based Milk Alternatives
Authors: Weston Max , Kuchel Rhiannon P. , Chandrawati Rona
Published: May 2020

Existing date marking tools, such as use‐by and sell‐by dates, fail to inform decision‐making throughout food distribution because they do not adapt to storage conditions such as temperature. Polymer‐based sensors can be incorporated into food packaging to provide an indication of food quality in real time, which can greatly reduce waste. This work identifies free fatty acid (FFA) as a marker for the quality of plant‐based milk and demonstrates the first detection tool for the freshness of almond milk using phospholipid‐doped polydiacetylene (PDA) vesicles. The sensor discriminates between triglycerides and FFA by a visible color change and can therefore be used to track fat metabolism during food spoilage. The interaction between FFA and PDA is investigated by electron microscopy and dynamic‐light‐scattering studies. PDA vesicles are then fabricated in agarose and used to discriminate between fresh and spoiled almond milk. Upon exposure of the PDA/agarose sensor to spoiled almond milk, a visible blue‐to‐red color change is induced in the film, which is correlated with FFA concentration in the samples. Incorporation of this technology into food packaging can be used to indicate food quality in real time, surpassing the efficacy of current date marking tools to reduce food waste.
Changes in Regional Cerebral Perfusion Over Time in Idiopathic REM Sleep Behavior Disorder
Authors: Baril Andrée‐Ann , Gagnon Jean‐François , Pelletier Amélie , Soucy Jean‐Paul , Gosselin Nadia , Postuma Ronald B. , Montplaisir Jacques
Published: May 2020

Background

Idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder is associated with increased risk of neurodegeneration, but the temporal evolution of regional perfusion, a marker of cerebral activity, has not been characterized. The objective of the current study was to study longitudinal regional perfusion in patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder.

Methods

Thirty‐seven patients and 23 controls underwent high‐resolution single‐photon emission computed tomography. After 17 months on average, scans were repeated for idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder patients. We compared regional cerebral blood flow between groups and over time.

Results

At baseline, patients showed lower relative regional perfusion in the anterior frontal and lateral parietotemporal cortex compared with controls. However, over time, patients showed an increase in relative regional perfusion in the anterior frontal, lateral parietal, and occipitotemporal cortex, reverting toward normal control levels.

Conclusions

Patients with idiopathic rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder showed significant areas of relative regional hypoperfusion, which disappeared over time to finally return to average levels, suggesting possible developing compensation in areas affected by neurodegeneration. © 2020 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Stable multiwavelength semiconductor optical amplifier‐based fiber laser using a 2‐mode interferometer
Authors: Ahmad Harith , Azmy Nur Fatini , Aidit Siti Nabila , Zulkifli Mohd Zamani
Published: May 2020

A multiwavelength semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) fiber laser based on all‐fiber two‐mode interferometer (TMI) structure is demonstrated. The TMI generates in a comb‐like spectrum with a 1‐nm wavelength spacing and extinction ratio of 5.7 dB. By incorporating a TMI in the laser cavity, stable multiwavelength operation is obtained with 30 output channels from 1570.8 to 1600.8 nm with peak powers of at least 10 dB from the highest peak. The output comb spectrum and the overall stability of the multiwavelength are also enhanced with by inducing the four‐wave‐mixing effect in the cavity. The multiwavelength SOA fiber laser shows high operational stability with peak power fluctuations exceeding 1 dB observed only at the 1st, 23rd, 26th, and 30th peaks, which are at the ends of the multiwavelength spectrum.
Modeling Larval American Shad Recruitment in a Large River
Authors: Marschall Elizabeth A. , Glover David C. , Mather Martha E. , Parrish Donna L.
Published: May 2020

Climate change is altering the spatial and temporal patterns of temperature and discharge in rivers, which is expected to have implications for the life stages of anadromous fish using those rivers. We developed an individual-based model to track American Shad Alosa sapidissima offspring within a coarse template of spatially and temporally variable habitat conditions defined by a combination of temperature, river velocity, and prey availability models. We simulated spawning at each river kilometer along a 142-km reach of the Connecticut River on each day (April 1–August 31) to understand how spawning date and location drive larval recruitment differentially across years and decades (1993–2002 and 2007–2016). For both temperature and flow, interannual variation was large in comparison to interdecadal differences. Variation in simulated recruitment was best explained by a combination of season-specific spawning temperature and location along the course of the river. The greatest potential recruitment occurred during years in which June temperatures were relatively high. In years when June and July were warmer than average, maximum recruitment resulted from spawning taking place at the upstream portion of the modeled reach. Model scenarios (stationary or passive-drift larvae; and dams or no dams) had predictable effects. We assumed that the pools above dams had negative impacts on eggs and yolk-sac larvae that may have been deposited there. Allowing eggs and larvae to drift passively with the current reduced spatial differences in recruitment success among spawning sites relative to stationary eggs and larvae. Our results demonstrate the importance of spatiotemporal environmental heterogeneity for producing positive recruitment over the long term. In addition, our results suggest the importance of successful passage of spawners to historical spawning sites in the Connecticut River upstream of Vernon Dam, especially as conditions shift with climate change.
Accreditation of nursing clinical services: Development of an appraisal tool
Authors: Poortaghi Sarieh , Salsali Mahvash , Ebadi Abbas , Pourgholamamiji Nima
Published: May 2020

Aim

This study aimed to determine comprehensive and applicable indicators for assessing the quality of nursing clinical services.

Design

Methodological research.

Methods

The checklist was designed in three phases (conceptualization, item generation and item reduction). In the first phase, a qualitative study using conventional content analysis was performed to clarify the concept of accreditation of clinical nursing services. In the second phase, using the views of experts was obtained in phase 1 and then by a review of the literature, related items were extracted, and item pool was formed. In the last phase, validity and reliability of the checklist were examined.

Result

Based on three phases (Conceptualization, Item Generation and Item Reduction), the accreditation indicators of clinical nursing services were extracted in three dimensions including structure, process and outcome at two levels of organizational (including structural and outcome indicators) and individual performance appraisal (process indicators) in 19 main categories.
An analytical micromechanics‐based multiscale model for the analysis of functionally graded nanocomposites
Authors: Ghanbari Jaafar , Rashidi Zahra
Published: May 2020

An analytical multiscale model is presented in this article for the analysis of functionally graded nanocomposites. The multiscale scheme is composed of a microscale problem whose solution provides the constitutive model for the macroscale problem. For nanoparticle‐reinforced composites, the microscale problem consists of three phases, namely the nanoparticle, the matrix, and an interphase layer between the matrix and the nanoparticle. An analytical micromechanical model based on Green's function is employed to solve the triple‐phase microscale problem. The homogenized properties of the FG nanocomposite are determined by the micromechanical problem and used in the macroscale level, at every macroscopic material point in which the constitutive model is required. As an example, a nanocomposite beam under bending is considered as the macroscale problem which is investigated by classical, first‐order, and third‐order shear deformation theories. The results obtained from the presented method are compared with the relevant data for similar problems using various higher‐order elasticity theories. By comparing the results of higher‐order theories and those obtained by the presented multiscale method, the internal length parameter of the higher‐order theories is correlated to the volume fraction of the interphase layer between the nanoparticle and the matrix.
Effectiveness of nurse‐led group CBT for hot flushes and night sweats in women with breast cancer: Results of the MENOS4 randomised controlled trial
Authors: Fenlon Deborah , Maishman Tom , Day Laura , Nuttall Jacqueline , May Carl , Ellis Mary , Raftery James , Turner Lesley , Fields Jo , Griffiths Gareth , Hunter Myra S.
Published: May 2020

Objective

Troublesome hot flushes and night sweats (HFNS) are experienced by many women after treatment for breast cancer, impacting significantly on sleep and quality of life. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is known to be effective for the alleviation of HFNS. However, it is not known if it can effectively be delivered by specialist nurses. We investigated whether group CBT, delivered by breast care nurses (BCNs), can reduce the impact of HFNS.

Methods

We recruited women with primary breast cancer following primary treatment with seven or more HFNS/week (including 4/10 or above on the HFNS problem rating scale), from six UK hospitals to an open, randomised, phase 3 effectiveness trial. Participants were randomised to Group CBT or usual care (UC). The primary endpoint was HFNS problem rating at 26 weeks after randomisation. Secondary outcomes included sleep, depression, anxiety and quality of life.

Results

Between 2017 and 2018, 130 participants were recruited (CBT:63, control:67). We found a 46% (6.9‐3.7) reduction in the mean HFNS problem rating score from randomisation to 26 weeks in the CBT arm and a 15% (6.5‐5.5) reduction in the UC arm (adjusted mean difference −1.96, CI −3.68 to −0.23, P = .039). Secondary outcomes, including frequency of HFNS, sleep, anxiety and depression all improved significantly.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that specialist nurses can be trained to deliver CBT effectively to alleviate troublesome menopausal hot flushes in women following breast cancer in the NHS setting.
Minimal detectable change and reliability of the star excursion balance test in patients with lateral ankle sprain
Authors: Pierobon Andrés , Raguzzi Ignacio , Soliño Santiago , Salzberg Sandra , Vuoto Tomás , Gilgado Daniela , Perez Calvo Eliana
Published: May 2020

OBJECTIVE

Lateral ankle sprain (LAS) is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal injuries in the general population and athletes. Dynamic postural control deficits and somatosensory alterations are common signs after an episode of LAS. It is important to detect these deficits to prevent a recurrent sprain and the development of chronic ankle instability. The Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT) is a tool used to assess dynamic postural control in patients with LAS. SEBT test–retest reliability has been evaluated in several populations. However, no data on patients with LAS are available and we do not know the minimal detectable change (MDC). The primary objective of our study was to obtain the MDC for normalized reach distances of the eight SEBT directions in patients with LAS. The secondary objective was to determine test–retest reliability.

METHODS

Cross‐sectional study. Thirty‐one patients (between 18 and 40 years old) diagnosed with a Grade I or II LAS. Participants were evaluated by two raters at two time‐points separated by an interval of 24–72 hrs. In each assessment, four practice trials were allowed, then three test trials were performed in a randomized order. Normalized reaching distances were analyzed.

RESULTS

From the initial 31 patients, two were eliminated, so 29 patients were considered for the final analysis. The MDC values obtained were 6.73–13.36%, and the medial and posteromedial directions showed the lowest and highest values, respectively. A statistically significant increase was found in lateral direction between T0 and T1. Intraclass correlation coefficients ranged from 0.72 to 0.93.

CONCLUSION

The SEBT is an accurate and reliable tool to assess dynamic postural control in patients with LAS.
Diameter of P.A. random graphs with edge‐step functions
Authors: Alves Caio , Ribeiro Rodrigo , Sanchis Rémy
Published: May 2020

In this work we prove general bounds for the diameter of random graphs generated by a preferential attachment model whose parameter is a function f:N→[0,1] that drives the asymptotic proportion between the numbers of vertices and edges. These results are sharp when f is a regularly varying function at infinity with strictly negative index of regular variation −γ. For this particular class, we prove a characterization for the diameter that depends only on −γ. More specifically, we prove that the diameter of such graphs is of order 1/γ with high probability, although its vertex set order goes to infinity polynomially. Sharp results for the diameter for a wide class of slowly varying functions are also obtained.
Synthetic Advancement of Neuraminidase Inhibitor “Tamiflu”
Authors: Limbani Bhagirath , Bera Smritilekha , Mondal Dhananjoy
Published: May 2020

Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate), clinically working antiviral chiral drug, is most effective against the infectious disease caused by both influenza A and B. It is also the last resort drug for the treatment of N1H1 virus infection at a high cost with minimal global availability. The current industrial method uses natural (‐)‐shikimic acid obtained from Chinese star anise and coffee beans, hence the limited natural resource and scarcity restricted the Tamiflu production. While most of the synthetic methods reported were composed of natural chiral pools and relatively low‐cost reagents, however, the industrial process is fundamentally limited to the use of hazardous azide or tedious purification methods. In case of an influenza outbreak, producing the Tamiflu according to its demand may be difficult. This document detailed the synthetic progress of chemistry over the last two decades emphasizing the starting materials, hazards of reagents, time needed, number of steps, and overall yields etc. for the interest in academia as well as industrial research.
Mechanism of Action of the Antimicrobial Peptide Caerin1.1
Authors: Houri Aamd J. , Mechler Adam
Published: May 2020

Caerin1.1 is a 25‐residue antimicrobial peptide secreted by the tree frog Litoria splendida. It is classified as an α‐helical cationic membrane disrupting peptide, with a good activity against Gram positive bacteria. Given its length, it is believed that caerin1.1 acts via transmembrane pore formation. However, the exact mechanism of its action is unknown. Here the interactions of caerin1.1 with biomimetic membranes were studied to establish the molecular mechanism of action. The activity of the peptide against different model membranes was determined by dye leakage experiments. Caerin1.1 showed weak activity against neat dimyristoyl phosphatidylcholine (DMPC) membrane and minimal activity against negatively charged or cholesterol containing membrane mixtures. Circular dichroism spectroscopy revealed that the peptide exhibited only 8‐16% helicity even in the DMPC membrane, yet quartz crystal microbalance fingerprinting suggested that the peptide was able to penetrate the membrane in each case. The results suggest that caerin1.1 is a membrane penetrating peptide but not a membrane disruptor, only causing incidental dye leakage while diffusing across the membrane. Consistently the main mode of action of caerin1.1 is likely exerted through an intracellular target.
Fluorescent pH‐Responsive Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles with Core‐Shell Feature as a Traceable Delivery Carrier for Ibuprofen
Authors: Wei Tingting , Sheng Mengdi , Liu Chang , Sun Jihong , Wu Xia , Bai Shiyang
Published: May 2020

The fluorescent pH‐responsive mesoporous silica nanoparticles (P@BMMs) were prepared, in which, the (2‐[3‐(triethoxysilyl) propyl]‐1H‐Benz [de]isoquinoline‐1, 3(2H)‐dione) ‐ poly(acrylic acid) (PID‐PAA) shell was covalently anchored onto the vinyl‐modified surface of the bimodal mesoporous materials (BMMs) core via one‐step or two‐step process. Their structural features were analyzed by XRD, SEM, TEM, TG, and SAXS, and the results showed that P@BMMs possessed typical fractal features from structural irregularity to surface roughness. Ibuprofen as a model drug was loaded into the mesopore channels of BMMs cores, particularly, the drug‐releasing performances from P@BMMs carriers were pH‐dependent. Meanwhile, the photoluminescent emission spectra and the fluorescent decay profiles presented that the hybrid P@BMMs with strong fluorescent intensity at 395 nm and 450 nm and longer decay lifetimes (such as 3.53 and 18.86 ns for P@BMMs‐I‐10) is a promising drug carrier, which can be used in potential applications for controlled drug delivery.
A Naked Eye and Turn‐On Fluorescence Detection of Zn2+ Ion by Imidazole‐Quinoline‐Based Fluorophore and Its Application in Live‐Cell Imaging
Authors: Gavash Harsha Kannikanti , Madhu Chakali , Puvvada Nagaprasad , Ramachandra Rao Baggi Tulsidas , Jayathirtha Rao Vaidya , Reddy Chereddy Narendra
Published: May 2020

A novel quinoline‐imidazole hybrid conjugate chromophore, 2‐(4,5‐diphenyl‐1H‐imidazol‐2‐yl)‐4‐phenylquinoline (DIPQ), is designed, synthesized, characterized using NMR, ESI‐MS and ESI‐HRMS analyses and explored for its ability in detecting a range of biologically relevant cations. Among the various metal ions, DIPQ responds selectively to the addition of Zn2+ with a change in color from colorless to pale yellow along with characteristic green fluorescence at 564 nm. Zn2+ induced absorption and fluorescence changes of DIPQ are not affected by other commonly coexistent metal ions and anions. DIPQ‐Zn2+ binding interactions are thoroughly studied using NMR and MALDI‐MS analyses. DIPQ is capable to detect Zn2+ even at the nano‐molar levels with a limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) of 2.7×10−8 M and 8.1×10−8 M, respectively. Sample matrices have trivial impact on the Zn2+ detection ability of DIPQ. The quantitative results obtained from the DIPQ method are comparable with the ICP‐OES method. Moreover, DIPQ has a wide pH range of operation, exhibited good cell permeability and low toxicity for biological applications. Furthermore, DIPQ is suitable to detect Zn2+ ions present in biological tissues.
Template Based Synthesis of Plasmonic Ag‐modified TiO2/SnO2 Nanotubes with Enhanced Photostability for Efficient Visible‐Light Photocatalytic H2 Evolution and RhB Degradation
Authors: Fakharian‐Qomi Mohammad Javad , Sadeghzadeh‐Attar Abbas
Published: May 2020

In the present study, ternary photocatalysts of Ag‐modified hybrid TiO2/SnO2 nanotube with varied Ag contents were synthesized by the liquid‐phase deposition method. The morphology, crystal structure and optical properties of ternary photocatalysts have been investigated in detail and compared with those of SnO2, TiO2, and TiO2/SnO2 nanotubes. The photocatalytic activity of the products has also been evaluated based on the degradation of Rhodamine B and H2 production under visible‐light irradiation. It was found that photostable 0.4 Ag‐TiO2/SnO2 nanotubes exhibit the highest photocatalytic H2 production rate of 1304.8 μmol.h−1.g−1 with the maximum apparent quantum yield (AQY) of 6.3%. The improvement in H2 evolution rate and photodegradation efficiency can be attributed to the synergetic effect of SnO2 coupling with TiO2 nanotubes and Ag modification, mainly owning to enlarged light absorption region, efficient separation of charge carriers in hybrid nanotubes, and localization of surface plasmon resonance of Ag nanoparticles.
Colorimetric Sensing of Hydrogen Peroxide Using Ionic‐Liquid‐Sensitized Zero‐Valent Copper Nanoparticle (nZVCu)
Authors: Zarif Faiza , Khurshid Shazia , Muhammad Nawshad , Zahid Qureshi Muhammad , Shah Noor S.
Published: May 2020

In this study, a stable ionic liquid (IL) mediated zero‐valent copper nanoparticle (nZVCu), namely IL‐nZVCu, has been evaluated for catalytic properties towards H2O2‐mediated TMB (3, 3’,5,5’‐tetramethylbenzidine) reaction under normal conditions of temperature and pH. The various analytical techniques like Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT‐IR), UV–Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV‐Vis DRS), X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) were used to confirm the structure and nano size of nZVCu. The simple protic IL 1‐hydrogen‐3‐methylimidazolium acetate (HmimOAc) with its cation 1‐methylimidazole and anion acetate was synthesized, characterized, and coated on nZVCu to prepared IL‐nZVCu. As a novel mimic peroxidase, IL‐nZVCu could quickly catalyze the oxidation reaction of specific chromogenic substrate TMB, when H2O2 acts as an oxidant, followed by a remarkable color change in the solution measured by UV/Vis Spectrophotometry. The enhanced catalytic activity and significant color change were greatly dependent on the catalyst dosage, the volume of IL taken, incubation time, H2O2 concentration, and TMB concentration. Also, IL‐nZVCu showed no response toward ascorbic acid, cholesterol, dopamine, urea and uric acid. Based on these findings, IL‐nZVCu could be effectively used for visual colorimetric sensing of H2O2 with a limit of detection (LOD) of 44 μM over the dynamic linear range from 40 μM to 1000 μM concentration.
Eu3+, Sm3+ Deep‐Red Phosphors as Novel Materials for White Light‐Emitting Diodes and Simultaneous Performance Enhancement of Organic–Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Khan Shahid Ullah , Khan Waheed Ullah , Khan Wasim Ullah , Khan Dilfaraz , Saeed Sumbul , Badshah Syed , Ikram Muhammad , Saleh Tawfik A.
Published: May 2020

The luminous efficiency of inorganic white light‐emitting diodes, to be used by the next generation as light initiators, is continuously progressing and is an emerging interest for researchers. However, low color‐rendering index (Ra), high correlated color temperature (CCT), and poor stability limit its wider application. Herein, it is reported that Sm3+‐ and Eu3+‐doped calcium scandate (CaSc2O4 (CSO)) are an emerging deep‐red‐emitting material with promising light absorption, enhanced emission properties, and excellent thermal stability that make it a promising candidate with potential applications in emission display, solid‐state white lighting, and the device performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). The average crystal structures of Sm3+‐doped CSO are studied by synchrotron X‐ray data that correspond to an extremely rigid host structure. Samarium ion is incorporated as a sensitizer that enhances the emission intensity up to 30%, with a high color purity of 88.9% with a 6% increment. The impacts of hosting the sensitizer are studied by quantifying the lifetime curves. The CaSc2O4:0.15Eu3+,0.03Sm3+ phosphor offers significant resistance to thermal quenching. The incorporation of lanthanide ion‐doped phosphors CSOE into PSCs is investigated along with their potential applications. The CSOE‐coated PSCs devices exhibit a high current density and a high power conversion efficiency (15.96%) when compared to the uncoated control devices.
Interfacial Modification through a Multifunctional Molecule for Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells with over 18% Efficiency
Authors: Liu Tiantian , Zhang Jie , Wu Xin , Liu Hongbin , Li Fengzhu , Deng Xiang , Lin Francis , Li Xiaosong , Zhu Zonglong , Jen Alex K.-Y.
Published: May 2020

A highly effective interface engineering approach uses a multifunctional molecule, 5‐amino‐2,4,6‐triiodoisophthalic acid (ATPA), to anchor on TiO2 and CsPbI3 simultaneously by reacting with dangling hydroxyl groups on TiO2 surfaces and passivating the defects of CsPbI3 films. In addition, the introduction of ATPA results in cascade energy‐level alignment between the perovskite and TiO2 electron‐transporting layer (ETL) to improve the electron extraction property. Based on the ATPA‐modified TiO2 substrates, optimized CsPbI3 perovskite solar cells (PVSCs) deliver the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of over 18% with suppressed hysteresis. Moreover, the unencapsulated TiO2/ATPA‐based devices exhibit much better long‐term stability and photostability than the only TiO2‐based devices.