bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Survival rates among Parkinson's disease patients who carry mutations in the LRRK2 and GBA genes
Authors: Thaler Avner , Kozlovski Tal , Gurevich Tanya , Bar‐Shira Anat , Gana‐Weisz Mali , Orr‐Urtreger Avi , Giladi Nir , Mirelman Anat
Published: October 2018

Background: The G2019S mutation in the LRRK2 gene generates a milder PD phenotype compared with GBA‐PD; however, genetic based survival studies are lacking.

Objectives: To compare mortality rates between LRRK2‐PD, GBA‐PD, and idiopathic PD patients (iPD).

Methods: Patients were screened for the G2019S mutation in the LRRK2 gene and the seven common GBA mutations among Ashkenazi Jews, classified as mild and severe (mGBA, sGBA). Motor symptoms onset and date of death were ascertained, with mortality rates calculated for each group of patients.

Results: Overall, 380 of 1,086 idiopathic PD patients, 49 of 159 LRRK2‐PD, 56 of 148 mGBA‐PD, and 13 of 49 sGBA‐PD participants died by the time of analysis. LRRK2‐PD tended to have longer survival compared to idiopathic PD whereas GBA status did not affect mortality. Genetic status did not predict mortality in a multivariate analysis.

Conclusion: Survival of patients with PD does not seem to be related to GBA status, whereas LRRK2 might confer higher survival rates.
History and future challenges of the subthalamic nucleus as surgical target: Review article
Authors: Guridi Jorge , Rodriguez‐Rojas Rafael , Carmona‐Abellán Mar , Parras Olga , Becerra Victoria , Lanciego Jose Luis
Published: October 2018

For many years the subthalamic nucleus had a poor reputation among neurosurgeons as a result of the acute movement disorders that develop after its lesion or manipulation through different surgical procedures. However, this nucleus is now considered a key structure in relation to parkinsonism, and it is currently one of the preferred therapeutic targets for Parkinson's disease. The implication of the subthalamic nucleus in the pathophysiology of chorea and in the parkinsonian state is thought to be related to its role in modulating the basal ganglia, a fundamental circuit in movement control. Indeed, recent findings have renewed interest in this anatomical structure. Accordingly, this review aims to present a history of the subthalamic nucleus, evolving from the classic surgical concepts associated with the avoidance of this structure, to our current understanding of its importance based on findings from more recent models. Future developments regarding the relationship of the subthalamic nucleus to neuroprotection are also discussed in this review. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Network analysis of symptoms in a Parkinson patient using experience sampling data: An n = 1 study
Authors: van der Velden Rachel M.J. , Mulders Anne E.P. , Drukker Marjan , Kuijf Mark L. , Leentjens Albert F.G.
Published: October 2018

Background

Around 50% of Parkinson's disease patients experience motor fluctuations after long‐term treatment with levodopa. These fluctuations may be accompanied by mood fluctuations. Routine cross‐sectional assessments cannot capture the extent of these motor and mood fluctuations and their possible associations. Experience sampling techniques that use frequently repeated measurements of symptoms over time are able to capture such fluctuations. Based on such data, longitudinal associations between symptoms can be studied using network analysis.

Aim

The purpose of this study is to identify longitudinal associations between motor symptoms and mood states in a patient with Parkinson's disease.

Methods

A 53‐year‐old man with Parkinson's disease and motor fluctuations collected experience sampling data during 34 consecutive days. A set of dependent variables included tremor, rigidity, balance problems, and “on/off” state, and the mood variables anxiety, cheerful, and “down.” Independent variables were the same variables assessed at the preceding measurement. Regression coefficients were calculated and presented in a network graph.

Results

In this patient, anxiety and cheerfulness had a central position within the symptom network. Higher anxiety was prospectively associated with increased rigidity and tremor and with feeling “down.” Cheerfulness was associated with less tremor. Balance problems were not influenced by cheerfulness nor anxiety, but increased balance problems were associated with reduced cheerfulness at the next assessment. Feeling “down” did not influence self‐reported motor symptom severity at the next assessment.

Conclusion

This n = 1 study shows that network analysis of experience sampling data may reveal longitudinal associations of self‐reported motor symptoms and mood states that may have relevance for treatment strategies. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A five‐compartment biokinetic model for 90Y‐DOTATOC therapy
Authors: Jeremic Marija Z. , Matovic Milovan D. , Krstic Dragana Z. , Pantovic Suzana B. , Nikezic Dragoslav R.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are now routinely treated by radiopeptide targeted therapy using somatostatin receptor‐binding peptides such as 90Y‐ and 177Lu‐DOTATOC. The objective of this work was to develop a biokinetics model of 90Y labelled DOTATOC, which is applied in the therapy of NETs to estimate doses in kidney and tumor.

Methods

A multi‐compartment model described by two sets of differential equations, one set for the actual 30‐min infusion and the other set for the post‐infusion period was developed and activities were measured by liquid scintillation counting in blood (compartment 1) and the urine (compartment 3). The inter‐compartment transfer coefficients, λij, were varied to yield the best fit of the calculated to the measured time‐activity data and the 90Y‐DOTATOC time‐activity data in the five‐compartments comprising the human body were thus determined. The resulting time‐activity curves were integrated over the interval from 0 to 72 h post administration to obtain the number of radioactive decays in each compartment and, in case of the kidneys and tumor, then multiplied by the self‐dose 90Y beta particle absorbed fraction, determined by Monte Carlo (MC) simulation, the kidney and tumor absorbed doses.

Results

Transfer coefficients λij, were determined for five‐compartments for all patients. Time‐ activity curves of 90Y‐DOTATOC in 14 patients were determined, and two typical ones are shown graphically. Absorbed doses in the tumor and kidneys, obtained by the developed method, were determined. The mean absorbed dose in a kidney per unit of administered activity is 1.43 mGy/MBq (range 0.73–2.42 mGy/MBq). The tumor dose was determined as 30.94 mGy/MBq (range 20.05–42.31 mGy/MBq).

Conclusion

Analytical solution of a biokinetic model for 90Y‐DOTATOC therapy enabled determination of the transfer coefficients and derivation of time‐activity curves and kidney and tumor absorbed doses for 14 treated patients. The model can be applied to other radionuclides where elimination is predominantly through urine, which is often the case in radiopharmaceuticals.
Unexplained Variation in Movement by Walleye and Sauger after Catch-and-Release Angling Tournaments
Authors: Eberts Rebecca L. , Butt Jessica C. , Somers Christopher M.
Published: October 2018

Walleye Sander vitreus is a popular species for catch-and-release angling tournaments in North America, but we currently know little about the postrelease behavior of this species and the congeneric Sauger S. canadensis. We used radiotelemetry and acoustic telemetry to track Walleyes (n = 101) and Saugers (n = 19) for 7 d after release at tournaments in Saskatchewan. Our objectives were to provide a description of postrelease movements, and examine the influence of handling variables and stress scores on movement. Walleyes made highly variable movements over 7 d, and total dispersal ranged from less than 100 m to over 28 km from the release point. Path lengths—the cumulative distance between start and end points—were considerably longer than straight-line dispersal. Walleyes made larger movements than Saugers, with average total dispersal values of 6.1 ± 6.9 km (mean ± SD) and 1.3 ± 1.8 km, respectively. Multivariate modeling revealed that species and tournament were the only important factors affecting movement. Fish size (TL), capture depth, distance transported, and time spent in a live well were not consistently important predictors of postrelease movement. Walleyes and Saugers moved much smaller distances when they had poor outcomes for the reflex action mortality predictor (RAMP) test, but RAMP scores in general did not explain a significant proportion of the variance in any fish movement metric. Swim scores at the time of release, an alternative metric of stress, also did not explain a significant proportion of variance in fish movement. Our results show intriguing variance in the behavioral response of individual Walleyes and Saugers to catch and release at tournaments, but do not identify causal factors.
On the linear elastic responses of the 2D bonded discrete element model
Authors: Zhao Gao‐Feng , Yin Qiuyue , Russell Adrian R. , Li Yingchun , Wu Wei , Li Qin
Published: October 2018

The bonded discrete element model (DEM) is a numerical tool that is becoming widely used when studying fracturing, fragmentation, and failure of solids in various disciplines. However, its abilities to solve elastic problems are usually overlooked. In this work, the main features of the 2D bonded DEM which influence Poisson's ratio and Young's modulus, and accuracy when solving elastic boundary value problems, are investigated. Outputs of numerical simulations using the 2D bonded DEM, the finite element method, a hyper elasticity analysis, and the distinct lattice spring model (DLSM) are compared in the investigation. It is shown that a shear interaction (local) factor and a geometric (global) factor are two essential elements for the 2D bonded DEM to reproduce a full range of Poisson's ratios. It is also found that the 2D bonded DEM might be unable to reproduce the correct displacements for elastic boundary value problems when the represented Poisson's ratio is close to 0.5 or the long‐range interaction is considered. In addition, an analytical relationship between the shear stiffness ratio and the Poisson's ratio, derived from a hyper elasticity analysis and applicable to discontinuum‐based models, provides good agreement with outputs from the 2D bonded DEM and DLSM. Finally, it is shown that the selection of elastic parameters used the 2D bonded DEM has a significant effect on fracturing and fragment patterns of solids.
Handgrip Strength, but Not 5‐Meter Walk, Adds Value to a Clinical Nutrition Assessment
Authors: McNicholl Tara , Dubin Joel A. , Curtis Lori , Mourtzakis Marina , Nasser Roseann , Laporte Manon , Keller Heather
Published: October 2018

Background

Decreased physical functioning is associated with malnutrition and common in acute care patients; determining loss of function is often considered part of a comprehensive nutrition assessment. Handgrip strength (HGS) and 5‐meter timed walk (5m) are functional measures used in a variety of settings. This analysis sought to determine which functional measure could be added to a hospital nutrition assessment, based on its feasibility and capacity to discriminate patient subgroups.

Methods

Eligible medical patients (no delirium/dementia, admitted from community; n = 1250), recruited from 5 hospitals that participated in a previous multisite action research study, provided data on demographics, HGS, 5m, nutrition status, perceived disability, and other characteristics.

Results

Significantly more patients (z = 17.39, P < .00001) were able to complete HGS than 5m (92% versus 43%, respectively). Median HGS was 28.0 kg for men and 14.7 kg for women. Of patients who completed the 5m, mean completion time was 8.98 seconds (median, 6.79 seconds, SD = 6.59). 5m and HGS scores were significantly worse with patient‐perceived disability (z = −9.56, t = 10.69, respectively; P < .0001; 95% confidence interval [CI], [7.33, 10.63]; [1.76, 3.18]). HGS was associated with nutrition status (t = 4.13, P < .001; 95% CI [2.02, 5.67]), although it showed poor validity as a single nutrition indicator.

Conclusions

These data indicate that HGS is a more useful functional measure than 5m when added to a hospital nutrition assessment. Determination of HGS cutpoints to identify low strength in acute care patients will promote its use.
Novel quadratic Bézier triangular and tetrahedral elements using existing mesh generators: Applications to linear nearly incompressible elastostatics and implicit and explicit elastodynamics
Authors: Kadapa Chennakesava
Published: October 2018

In this paper, we present novel techniques of using quadratic Bézier triangular and tetrahedral elements for elastostatic and implicit/explicit elastodynamic simulations involving nearly incompressible linear elastic materials. A simple linear mapping is proposed for developing finite element meshes with quadratic Bézier triangular/tetrahedral elements from the corresponding quadratic Lagrange elements that can be easily generated using the existing mesh generators. Numerical issues arising in the case of nearly incompressible materials are addressed using the consistent B‐bar formulation, thus reducing the finite element formulation to one consisting only of displacements. The higher‐order spatial discretization and the nonnegative nature of Bernstein polynomials are shown to yield significant computational benefits. The optimal spatial convergence of the B‐bar formulation for the quadratic triangular and tetrahedral elements is demonstrated by computing error norms in displacement and stresses. The applicability and computational efficiency of the proposed elements for elastodynamic simulations are demonstrated by studying several numerical examples involving real‐world geometries with complex features. Numerical results obtained with the standard linear triangular and tetrahedral elements are also presented for comparison.
Relatives’ experiences of sharing a written life story about a close family member with dementia who has moved to residential care: An interview study
Authors: Andersson Ewa Kazimiera , Dellkvist Helén , Bernow Johansson Ulrika , Skär Lisa
Published: October 2018

Aim

The aim of this study was to describe relatives’ experiences of sharing a written life story about a close family member with dementia who has moved to residential care.

Design

An explorative descriptive qualitative design was used.

Methods

The data were collected using semi‐structured interviews with a purposeful sample of eight relatives and analyzed using a qualitative content analysis.

Results

Results show that creating and sharing the life story of a close family member could help relatives handle grief and stress. It was perceived as an important, yet difficult, task to ensure that the close family member got good quality care. The creation of a meaningful life story takes time and requires cooperation with family members and other significant people.
Low‐Calorie Sweeteners: Exploring Underutilized Database Resources to Understand Dietary Patterns and Obesity
Authors: Marriott Bernadette P. , Hunt Kelly J. , Malek Angela M. , St. Peter John V. , Greenberg Danielle
Published: October 2018

The use and impact of low‐calorie sweeteners (LCS) in relation to the national challenges of overweight and obesity are complex and controversial. Most research on LCS have focused on the prevalence of consumption of LCS in beverages. The 2015 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee emphasized dietary patterns and health rather than a focus on specific nutrients or foods. The committee took this approach to shift the national emphasis onto the context of total rather than individual nutrient consumption. A broader research paradigm is needed to elucidate the actual exposure to LCS and how they are consumed within dietary patterns in the US population. National‐level databases exist that can be used to broaden scientific understanding of the effects of LCS and health outcomes. These databases are underutilized, and they provide potential tools for grasping a fuller picture of LCS in the US diet.
Gut Microbiota and Body Weight in School‐Aged Children: The KOALA Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Mbakwa Catherine A. , Hermes Gerben D. A. , Penders John , Savelkoul Paul H. M. , Thijs Carel , Dagnelie Pieter C. , Mommers Monique , Zoetendal Erwin G. , Smidt Hauke , Arts Ilja C. W.
Published: October 2018

Objective

This study aimed to examine the intestinal microbiota composition of school‐aged children in association with (over)weight.

Methods

The fecal microbiota composition of 295 children was analyzed using the Human Intestinal Tract Chip. Anthropometric outcomes (overweight [BMI  ≥  85th percentile], age‐ and sex‐standardized BMI and weight z scores) were measured at 6 to 7 years of age, and elastic net was used to select genus‐like bacterial groups related to all anthropometric outcomes. Subsequently, multiple linear and logistic regression models were used to model associations between selected bacterial groups and anthropometric measures while controlling for confounders.

Results

Prevotella melaninogenica, Prevotella oralis, Dialister, and uncultured Clostridiales II (UCII) accounted for 26.1% of the variation in microbiota composition. Several bacterial groups were inversely associated with the anthropometric outcomes: Sutterella wadsworthensis, Marvinbryantia formatexigens, Prevotella melanogenica, P oralis, Burkholderia, uncultured Clostridiales II, and Akkermansia, while Streptococcus bovis was positively associated with overweight. Microbial diversity and richness, and Bacteroidetes to Firmicutes ratio, were not significantly associated with any of the outcomes.

Conclusions

In the largest population‐based study on childhood gut microbiota and body weight so far, both new and previously identified bacterial groups were found to be associated with overweight. Further research should elucidate their role in energy metabolism.
Application of Box–Behnken design for ultrasound‐assisted extraction and recycling preparative HPLC for isolation of anthraquinones fromCassia singueana
Authors: Jibril Saidu , Basar Norazah , Sirat Hasnah Mohd , Wahab Roswanira Abdul , Mahat Naji Arafat , Nahar Lutfun , Sarker Satyajit D.
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Cassia singueanaDel. (Fabaceae) is a rare medicinal plant used in the traditional medicine preparations to treat various ailments. The root ofC. singueanais a rich source of anthraquinones that possess anticancer, antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Objective

The objective of this study was to develop an ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) method for achieving a high extraction yield of anthraquinones using the response surface methodology (RSM), Box–Behnken design (BBD), and a recycling preparative high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) protocol for isolation of anthraquinones fromC. singueana.

Methodology

Optimisation of UAE was performed using the Box–Behnken experimental design. Recycling preparative HPLC was employed to isolate anthraquinones from the root extract ofC. singueana.

Results

The BBD was well‐described by a quadratic polynomial model (R2 = 0.9751). The predicted optimal UAE conditions for a high extraction yield were obtained at: extraction time 25.00 min, temperature 50°C and solvent‐sample ratio of 10 mL/g. Under the predicted conditions, the experimental value (1.65 ± 0.07%) closely agreed to the predicted yield (1.64%). The obtained crude extract ofC. singueanaroot was subsequently purified to afford eight anthraquinones.

Conclusion

The extraction protocol described here is suitable for large‐scale extraction of anthraquinones from plant extracts.
The effects of partial amniotic carbon dioxide insufflation in an ovine model
Authors: Skinner Sasha , Crossley Kelly , Amberg Ben , Kashyap Aidan , Hooper Stuart , Deprest Jan A. , Hodges Ryan , DeKoninck Philip
Published: October 2018

What's already known about this topic?

PACI enables fetoscopic myelomeningocele repair as a minimally invasive alternative to open fetal surgery.

PACI causes fetal hypercapnia and acidosis in sheep.

Initial clinical series of fetoscopic myelomeningocele repair using PACI was associated with high rates of PPROM and preterm birth.

What does this study add?

Increasing PACI pressures results in larger disturbances in fetal acid‐base and uterine blood flow.

Unheated, nonhumidified PACI exposure leads to fetal membrane inflammation.

Important differences in sheep and human uterine and placental structure must be considered in our study interpretation.
Identification of incident pancreatic cancer in Ontario administrative health data: A validation study
Authors: Wu Jennifer W. , Azoulay Laurent , Huang Anjie , Paterson Michael , Wu Fangyun , Secrest Matthew H. , Filion Kristian B.
Published: October 2018

Purpose

To validate three approaches for identifying incident cases of pancreatic cancer in Ontario administrative claims data.

Methods

We created a cohort using Ontario (Canada) administrative health data from 2002 to 2012 and identified cases of pancreatic cancer with three approaches, using the Ontario Cancer Registry (OCR) as the reference standard. In the any diagnosis approach, cases were defined by primary or secondary diagnostic codes for pancreatic cancer in outpatient or inpatient records. In the any inpatient diagnosis approach, cases were defined using only diagnoses in hospital discharge abstracts. In the algorithm approach, cases were identified by an algorithm that combined the first two approaches. Comparing each approach to the OCR, we calculated the expected value and 95% confidence interval (CI) of the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV). We also compared the event dates using each approach with those recorded in the OCR.

Results

Among a total of 12 060 837 patients in Ontario administrative health data sources, 13 999 incident pancreatic cancer cases were identified in the OCR. Sensitivity ranged from 72.5% (algorithm) to 97.5% (any diagnosis), and PPV ranged from 38.4% (any diagnosis) to 78.9% (any inpatient diagnosis). Specificity and NPV were ~100% for all approaches. The median absolute difference in cancer event date ranged 0 to 15 days. The any inpatient diagnosis method had the highest PPV (78.9%; 95% CI: 78.2‐79.5%) and moderate sensitivity (86.6%; 95% CI: 86.0‐87.2%).

Conclusion

Inpatient diagnoses of pancreatic cancer in Ontario administrative heath data are suitable for pancreatic cancer case identification.
Easy Riders
Authors: Toensmeier Pat
Published: October 2018

Autonomous vehicles could be fixtures on streets and highways as soon as 2025 as developers finalize the technologies and platforms that enable their performance. While issues relating to vehicle operation and passenger safety need to be resolved in the near term, the consensus among most experts is that AVs will be viable transportation options. Assuming consumer acceptance of the technology meets expectations, wide commercialization of AVs no later than 2030 seems all but certain in the U.S., Europe, China, and elsewhere
Micro‐Scale Medical Devices Were Big News at MD&M East
Authors: Giordano Geoff
Published: October 2018

One big theme at MD&M East this year: Small

The Medical Device and Manufacturing Show, co‐located with Plastec East and four other shows at the Javits Center in New York City between June 12 and 14, offered a slew of plastics‐related innovations amid the 3D printers, laser markers, metrology equipment, and collaborative robots (cobots)
Insights into the molecular mechanism behind solubilization of amyloidogenic polyglutamine‐containing peptides
Authors: Burra Gunasekhar , Thakur Ashwani Kumar
Published: October 2018

Synthetic peptides are widely used to understand the protein misfolding and aggregation observed in a diverse group of diseases called systemic amyloidosis and neurodegenerative disorders. The preparation of monomeric solutions of the aggregation‐prone peptides is necessary for achieving a mechanistic understanding efficiently, without compromising any critical step. This study describes novel approaches and mechanisms behind the conversion of otherwise insoluble/sparingly soluble peptides to soluble monomers by trifluoroacetic acid and hexafluoroisopropanol. Although the pretreatment with these solvents results in more or less similar monomers, the mechanism followed to achieve this differs with the solvent. Data show that these solvents aid in the solubility by disrupting the extensive intramolecular and/or intermolecular H‐bond network present in the insoluble peptides.
Suboptimal Clinical Response Rates with Newer Antibiotics Among Patients with Moderate Renal Impairment: Review of the Literature and Potential Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Considerations for Observed Findings
Authors: Bidell Monique R. , Lodise Thomas P.
Published: October 2018

A number of antibacterial agents have emerged into the U.S. market in the last 2 decades to address growing concerns of antimicrobial resistance. These agents have demonstrated noninferiority to comparators for treatment of a range of complicated infections in their respective clinical trials. However, with select agents, a trend of reduced therapeutic efficacy was observed among study patients with baseline renal impairment. This phenomenon was seen in phase III studies involving ceftazidime‐avibactam, ceftolozane‐tazobactam, daptomycin, and telavancin. Although these were largely post hoc findings among small subpopulations, this observation is still concerning, given that renal impairment is a common occurrence among patients in real‐world care settings. Cautions for use in this population are featured in the prescribing information of all four agents. Although well‐defined reasons for these findings across trials are diverse or unknown, several potential pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic explanations for these discordant response rates exist. In this review, we summarize the phase III studies that observed lower response rates with ceftazidime‐avibactam, ceftolozane‐tazobactam, daptomycin, and telavancin relative to their comparators among patients with moderate renal impairment, discuss potential explanations for the observed findings, provide considerations for future antibiotic development, and offer strategies for optimizing antibiotic dosage selection among patients with moderate renal impairment in clinical settings. Although all of these agents are discussed, ceftazidime‐avibactam is used as a motivating example to demonstrate the implications of inappropriate dosage selection.
Micropatterning of poly(p‐phenylene vinylene) by femtosecond laser induced forward transfer
Authors: Almeida Juliana MP , Avila Oriana I , Andrade Marcelo B , Stefanelo Josiani C , Otuka Adriano JG , Paula Kelly T , Balogh Debora T , Mendonça Cleber R
Published: October 2018

Conjugated polymers are important materials for optical applications, among which poly(p‐phenylene vinylene) (PPV) has a major role due to its applicability in sensors, organic light‐emitting diodes and large area displays. Despite advances on the synthesis of PPV‐based polymers and the improvements of their properties, its printing process, in particular involving the solid phase, remains unsuitable for the development of electro‐optical microcircuits. This paper demonstrates the printing of PPV from the solid phase in 2D micropatterns. Such an achievement was performed using laser induced forward transfer with femtosecond pulses, which allows area‐selective deposition within reduced scales as thin as ca 100 nm and 5 µm wide. Raman, fluorescence and electrochemical impedance spectroscopies confirm that the printed PPV micropatterns have the same structure, emission spectrum and conductivity as the target material, revealing the conservation of their original properties even after laser irradiation. The printing process was carried out using PPV films, overcoming the insolubility issue of this material. The optical and electrical characterization of the transferred PPV demonstrates the potential of this method for the patterning of electro‐optical microdevices, since luminescence and electrical conductivity were preserved. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Verifying the ecological model of peer aggression on Croatian students
Authors: Velki Tena
Published: October 2018

Using the ecological approach, the goal of this study was to determine the predictors of physical and verbal peer aggressive behavior. The participants were 880 school students from the fifth to eighth grade (48% boys and 52% girls) and the same number of parents (19% fathers and 61% mothers) as well as 107 teachers. The main analysis was performed using multivariate–multilevel modeling. The following significant predictors of physical peer aggression were obtained: Boys, a greater degree of impulsivity, more parental punishment, poorer school success, more time spent with the media, and the perception of great neighborhood dangerousness. For verbal peer aggression, the significant predictors were: A greater degree of impulsivity, lower level of affective empathy, more parental punishment, lack of parental supervision, lesser peer acceptance, large differences in family income, more time spent with the media, and the perception of great neighborhood dangerousness. A moderating effect of neighborhood dangerousness and parental supervision was found. The results were interpreted within Bronfenbrenner's ecological model.
Identifying dyslexia with confirmatory latent profile analysis
Authors: Niileksela Christopher R. , Templin Jonathan
Published: October 2018

Confirmatory latent profile analysis (CLPA) was used with the normative sample from the Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement, 3rd ed. (KTEA‐3) to determine whether it was possible to identify a latent class of individuals whose scores were consistent with the academic strengths and weaknesses related to dyslexia. The CLPA identified a class of individuals consistent with dyslexia across four‐grade level groups (first–second, third–fifth, sixth–eighth, and ninth–twelfth). The results of the CLPA were applied to the KTEA‐3 clinical samples of those with known clinical diagnoses. Individuals with Specific Learning Disorder in Reading and/or Written Expression had a higher probability of being in the dyslexia latent class. The use of CLPA as a tool for learning disability diagnosis appears plausible, though much more research is needed. The strengths, limitations, and future directions for the use of CLPA in diagnosis are discussed.
Improving oral reading fluency in middle‐school students: A comparison of repeated reading and listening passage preview
Authors: Powell Margaret B. , Gadke Daniel L.
Published: October 2018

Oral reading fluency has been established in previous literature as a key component in becoming an effective reader. Repeated reading (RR) and listening passage preview (LPP) are both oral reading fluency interventions well‐supported in the research literature, however, most of this study explores their use with elementary‐aged children, with only a handful of studies over the last 20 years evaluating their use in middle‐school children. The overall goal of the current study was to explore the effectiveness of both of these interventions independent and relative to one another. An alternating treatment design (A/ABC), including the use of baseline, was implemented to compare RR, LPP, and a control. Three middle school‐aged struggling readers were randomly exposed to the conditions over time, with oral reading fluency acting as the primary dependent variable. Data were analyzed using visual analysis and effect size calculated using nonoverlap of all pairs (NAP). The results indicated primarily large effects for RR, with LPP effects ranging from small to large across participants. Limitations, implications, and future directions are also discussed.
Cell Wall Proteome Investigation of Bread Wheat (Triticum Aestivum) Developing Grain in Endosperm and Outer Layers
Authors: Cherkaoui Mehdi , Geairon Audrey , Lollier Virginie , Clemente Hélène San , Larré Colette , Rogniaux Hélène , Jamet Elisabeth , Guillon Fabienne , Francin‐Allami Mathilde
Published: October 2018

The remodeling of cell wall polysaccharides is controlled by cell wall proteins (CWPs) during the development of wheat grain. This work describes for the first time the cell wall proteomes of the endosperm and outer layers of the wheat developing grain, which have distinct physiological functions and technological uses. Altogether 636 nonredundant predicted CWPs are identified with 337 proteins in the endosperm and 594 proteins in the outer layers, among which 295 proteins are present in both tissues, suggesting both common and tissue specific remodeling activities. These proteins are distributed into eight functional classes. Approximatively a quarter of them were predicted to act on cell wall polysaccharides, with many glycosylhydrolases and also expansin, lyases, and carbohydrate esterases. Therefore, these results provide crucial data to go further in the understanding of relationship between tissue‐specific morphogenesis and cell wall remodeling in cereals. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifier PXD010367.
Polyimide incorporated cyanate ester/epoxy copolymers for high‐temperature molding compounds
Authors: Wu Fan , Song Bo , Hah Jinho , Tuan Chia‐Chi , Moon Kyoung‐Sik , Wong Ching‐Ping
Published: October 2018

The rapid development of high‐power devices has driven the requirement for high‐temperature stable epoxy molding compounds. In this work, a designed polymer blend system consisting of cyanate ester/epoxy copolymers modified by polyimide (CE/EP‐PI) has been studied. Polyimide used in this study has shown excellent dispersity in the cyanate ester and epoxy copolymer network (CE/EP), exhibiting homogeneous phase with a denser polymer network structure. With this polymer blend structure, CE/EP‐PI system was proved to have a glass transition temperature as high as ~270 °C, increased modulus, and largely enhanced fracture toughness up to 2.06 MPa m1/2. CE/EP‐PI resins showed outstanding long‐term stability at high temperature with low mass loss and increased fracture toughness after aging at 200 °C. This work provides a novel insight into the development of molding compounds based on polymer blends system with excellent high‐temperature properties. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 2412–2421
Psychological distress, role, and identity changes in mothers following a diagnosis of cancer: A systematic review
Authors: Kuswanto Carissa Nadia , Stafford Lesley , Sharp Jessica , Schofield Penelope
Published: October 2018

Objective

To systematically review findings of the impact of cancer diagnosis and treatment on mothers' psychological well‐being, roles, and identity and to explore the psychosocial factors that contribute to mothers' psychological well‐being.

Methods

Six databases were searched for research articles and theses exploring the association between the impact of cancer diagnosis and treatment on mothers' psychological well‐being, identity, and role, and the psychosocial factors contributing to mothers' psychological distress regardless of their cancer type and stage. The Mixed‐Method Appraisal Bias Tool was used to assess the selected studies' methodological quality.

Results

A total of 30 qualitative, quantitative, and mixed‐method studies were deemed eligible for inclusion. Most studies reported that mothers experienced significant psychological distress, changes to or loss of parenting efficacy, maternal identity, and role. Psychosocial factors that contributed to mothers' distress included mothers' young age, presence of metastases, lower parenting efficacy, fear of cancer recurrence, higher illness intrusiveness, and lack of appropriate support. Four main themes emerged from the qualitative studies: psychological impact of cancer on mothers, changes in maternal identity and role, relationship changes and concerns for their children, and meaning‐making in cancer experience.

Conclusions

Changes in mothers' psychological well‐being, role, and identity occurred across cancer diagnoses, treatment, and recovery trajectories. The evidence suggests that mothers may benefit from continued and tailored psychosocial support to cope with these challenges, even after treatment is completed. Further studies with improved methodological quality are needed to explore these issues in depth.
Rapid therapeutic advances in CFTR modulator science
Authors: Clancy John P.
Published: October 2018

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive genetic disease caused by variants in the gene encoding the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conduction regulator (CFTR) protein. Loss of CFTR function disrupts chloride, bicarbonate and regulation of sodium transport, producing a cascade of mucus obstruction, inflammation, pulmonary infection, and ultimately damage in numerous organs. Established CF therapies treat the downstream consequences of CFTR dysfunction and have led to steady improvements in patient survival. A class of drugs termed CFTR modulators has recently entered the CF therapeutic landscape. These drugs differ fundamentally from prior therapies in that they aim to improve the function of disease‐causing CFTR variants. This review summarizes the science behind CFTR modulators, including their targets, mechanism of action, clinical benefit, and future directions in the field. CFTR modulators have dramatically changed how CF is treated, validated CFTR as a therapeutic target, and opened the door to truly personalized therapies and treatment regimens.
“It is better to be safe 100 times than dead once.”—Mark Twain
Authors: Edwards Victor , Study Karen
Published: October 2018

A number of major process incidents during the 1980s led the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to promulgate the process safety management regulation in 1992 (1). Those incidents and the anticipation of the new OSHA regulations energized the South Texas Section of American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE), and eight other organizations including the AIChE Center for Chemical Process Safety (CCPS), to create the first process plant safety symposium (PPSS) in 1992. The symposium was held in Houston as a low‐cost and convenient training forum for the large community of engineers and scientists at regional chemical process plants and refineries. Approximately 700 people attended. Subsequently, the PPSS has evolved to become one of the four main tracks in AIChE's Global Congress on Process Safety.

In the intervening years, 18 PPSSs have been held. The unique focus of these symposia has been on practices, perspectives, methods, and tools to improve process safety at the plant level. This article, presented at the 20th PPSS, reviews examples of how progress in process safety has been facilitated by these symposia. The article concludes with a look to the future for needed advances in process safety. © 2018 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 37: 452–458, 2018
Characterization of a peptide containing the major heparin binding domain of human hepatic lipase
Authors: Coady Breanne M. , Marshall Jenika D. , Hattie Luke E. , Brannan Alexander M. , Fitzpatrick Madeline N. , Hickey Kala E. , Wallin Stefan , Booth Valerie , Brown Robert J.
Published: October 2018

Human hepatic lipase (hHL) is a cell surface associated enzyme that hydrolyzes triacylglycerols and phospholipids within circulating lipoproteins. We hypothesized that an amino acid sequence mimicking the major heparin binding domain (HBD) of hHL will displace hHL from cell surfaces. To test this hypothesis, we generated a recombinant protein of thioredoxin linked with a cleavable, tagged sequence containing amino acids 442 to 476 of the mature hHL sequence, which contains the major HBD of hHL. The recombinant protein associated with heparin‐sepharose, and its peak elution from heparin‐sepharose occurred in the presence of 0.5 M NaCl. We cleaved and purified the tagged sequence containing the HBD from the recombinant protein and tested the ability of the peptide to displace full‐length hHL from HEK‐293 cells. The peptide indeed displaced hHL from cell surfaces, while no significant displacement was observed in the presence of a peptide with a scrambled sequence. Finally, we obtained structural information for the peptide containing the HBD. 1H‐ and 15N‐NMR spectra of the peptide indicate the peptide is largely unstructured, although not completely random coil. The addition of heparin to the peptide induced some changes in chemical shift, suggesting changes in peptide structure and/or specific interactions with heparin. Molecular simulations confirm the largely unstructured nature of the isolated peptide, but they also indicate weak tendencies for both α‐ and β‐structure formation in different parts of the chain. Overall, these data provide a proof‐of‐principle for the use of mimetic peptides for the displacement of cell surface associated lipases.
Wearable Ring Resonator Antenna
Authors: Moradi Bahareh , Martinez Marc , Fernández‐García Raúl , Gil Ignacio
Published: October 2018

In this paper a metamaterial wearable antenna is proposed. The proposed design is based on a transmission line coupled to a pair of double ring resonators (DRRs) on an e‐textile substrate. The metallic antenna layer is fully embroidered providing both electromagnetic and mechanical good properties. The proposed design is validated by comparison of 3D electromagnetic simulations and measurements. The obtained results correspond to S11 < −29.5 dB with a gain of 9.64 dBi at resonance frequency and 93% efficiency covering a 160 MHz bandwidth. In addition, the effect of environmental condition such as temperature and humidity on antenna is reported. Results show the resonance frequency level shift in several climatic conditions. Moreover, the specific absorption rate (SAR) to preserve the human body safety from radiation is performed by means of numerical simulations, according to the international regulation. Experimental results confirm that the embroidered MTM antenna is a useful technique to control the propagation of signals on wearable applications.
Enhanced Luminescence of InGaN Quantum Well Structures with Localized Surface Plasmon by Using Sputter‐Fabricated Ag Nanoparticles in an Ionic Liquid
Authors: Lee Won‐Wook , Polyakov Alexander Y. , Kim Taehwan , Lee In‐Hwan
Published: October 2018

Small, uniform Ag nanoparticles (NPs) in ionic liquids (ILs) are synthesized via simple sputtering route. The NPs embedded in polymer film are coated on top of InGaN/GaN active multiple quantum‐well light‐emitting structures and their optical characteristics are compared. The InGaN structures coated with Ag NPs show a significant increase in photoluminescence efficiency, mainly caused by localized surface plasmon (LSPs) coupling. Time‐resolved (TR) photoluminescence analysis demonstrates that the coupling efficiency is 47.2%. The increased luminescence is caused by good energy matching between the surface plasmon and the light emitter. The authors believe that present work takes a first step to utilize the advantages of metal NPs synthesized in ILs and has a great potential for use in various optoelectronic devices.
Electron‐Beam Induced Water Removal, Phase Change, and Crystallization of Anodic‐Electrodeposited Turbostratic Nickel Hydroxide‐Oxyhydroxide
Authors: Kwan Kin Wa , Xie Degang , Zhang Rongrong , Shan Zhiwei , Ngan Alfonso H. W.
Published: October 2018

Water removal, phase transformation, and crystallization of turbostratic nickel hydroxide and oxyhydroxide (Ni(OH)2‐NiOOH) are found to be inducible by the electron beam of a transmission electron microscope (TEM). Under 30 s of beam exposure at an accelerating voltage of 200 keV and a beam current density of 500 mA m−2, the original, characteristic turbostratic structure of Ni(OH)2‐NiOOH is observed to disappear, caused by the quick removal of intercalated water molecules by the electron beam. Increasing the current density from a low value of 1.5 mA m−2 to a high value of 500 mA m−2 can transform the Ni(OH)2‐NiOOH into nickel oxide (NiO) in 1 min. In situ heating and preheating experiments suggest that the transformation is caused by a heating effect induced by the electron beam. The results confirm that the mechanism previously discovered light‐induced actuation of Ni(OH)2‐NiOOH is caused by desorption of water molecules.
Subunit mass analysis for monitoring multiple attributes of monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Liu Peiran , Zhu Xin , Wu Wei , Ludwig Richard , Song Hangtian , Li Ruojia , Zhou Jiping , Tao Li , Leone Anthony M.
Published: October 2018

Rationale

Multi‐Attribute Methods (MAMs) are appealing due to their ability to provide data on multiple molecular attributes from a single assay. If fully realized, such tests could reduce the number of assays required to support a product control strategy while providing equivalent or greater product understanding relative to the conventional approach. In doing so, MAMs have the potential to decrease development and manufacturing costs by reducing the number of tests in a release panel.

Methods

In this work, we report a MAM which is based on subunit mass analysis.

Results

The MAM assay is shown to be suitable for use as a combined method for identity testing, glycan profiling, and protein ratio determination for co‐formulated monoclonal antibody (mAb) drugs. This is achieved by taking advantage of the high mass accuracy and relative quantification capabilities of intact mass analysis using quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (Q‐TOF MS). Protein identification is achieved by comparing the measured masses of light chain (LC) and heavy chain (HC) mAbs against their theoretical values. Specificity is based on instrument mass accuracy. Glycan profiling and relative protein ratios are determined by the relative peak intensities of the protein HC glycoforms and LC glycoforms, respectively. Results for these relative quantifications agree well with those obtained by the conventional hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography (HILIC) and reversed‐phase LC methods.

Conclusions

The suitability of this MAM for use in a quality control setting is demonstrated through assessment specificity for mAb identity, and accuracy, precision, linearity and robustness for glycan profiling and ratio determination. Results from this study indicate that a MAM with subunit mass analysis has the potential to replace three conventional methods widely used for mAb release testing including identification assay, glycosylation profiling, and ratio determination for co‐formulated mAbs.
Microhabitat use of native fishes in the Kootenai River: A fine‐scale evaluation of large‐scale habitat rehabilitation efforts
Authors: Branigan Philip R. , Quist Michael C. , Shepard Bradley B. , Ireland Susan C.
Published: October 2018

Fish and microhabitat data were collected at 542 prepositioned electrofishing sites (surface area of each site = 4 m2) in the Kootenai River, Idaho, during 2014 and 2015 to evaluate small‐scale habitat use by fishes, as it relates to large‐scale habitat rehabilitation efforts. Samples were collected from a 12‐km braided segment of river that had received localized habitat rehabilitation treatments since 2011. Fish and microhabitat data were collected to investigate habitat drivers related to the occurrence and relative abundance of fishes. Each sampling location was selected at random and characterized as “treated” (i.e., rehabilitated) or “untreated” based on proximity to habitat treatments. Fishes sampled from backwaters composed 71% of the overall catch and 84% of the catch from locally untreated areas of the river. Species‐specific regression models suggested that water depth and current velocity influenced the occurrence and abundance of fishes. In particular, shallow habitats with low current velocities were important for small‐bodied native fishes and likely serve as important rearing areas for juvenile fish. These habitat conditions typically characterize backwater and channel‐margin habitats that are vulnerable to anthropogenic perturbation. Prioritizing process‐based rehabilitation of these areas in large, regulated rivers would allow natural channel‐forming processes for the benefit of native fishes.