bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seasonal and subtype differences in body mass index at admission in inpatients with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Meule Adrian , Schlegl Sandra , Voderholzer Ulrich
Published: February 2020

Objective

In the general population, body weight is—on average—higher in the winter than in the summer. In patients with anorexia nervosa (AN), however, the opposite pattern has been reported. Yet, only a handful of studies exist to date that suffer from small sample sizes and inconsistent results. Therefore, the current study examined seasonal effects on body weight in a large sample of patients with AN to dissolve previous inconsistencies.

Method

Clinical records of N = 606 inpatients (95.4% female) who received AN treatment at the Schoen Clinic Roseneck (Prien am Chiemsee, Germany) between 2014 and 2019 were analyzed.

Results

Patients with restrictive type AN had lower body mass index at admission in the winter than in the summer. This difference was not found for patients with binge/purge type AN and patients with atypical AN.

Discussion

Individuals with restrictive type AN show seasonal variations in body weight that are opposite to seasonal variations in body weight in individuals without AN. These seasonal effects are specific to the restrictive subtype and cannot be found for the binge/purge or atypical subtypes. Future studies that replicate this effect in other cultures or latitudes and that examine the mediating mechanisms are needed.
Bond Activations Assisted by Redox Active Ligand Scaffolds
Authors: Khan Farheen Fatima , Chowdhury Abhishek Dutta , Lahiri Goutam Kumar
Published: February 2020

Redox active ligands are an integral part of many biological events and significant natural processes. Transformations assisted by such ligands gather the limelight owing to their excellent activity and selectivity towards the transformation of organic functionalities as well as activation of small molecules. The past few decades have seen an increasing demand of the field featuring its significance as the concept derived products find applications in chemical, pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. Besides, the mechanistic insights allow for a grass root understanding of the underlining chemistry. The present article aims to highlight bond activations platformed on this concept by citing a few recent examples.
EBC‐342: A Novel Tetrahydrofuran Moiety Containing Casbane from the Australian Rainforest
Authors: Maslovskaya Lidia A. , Savchenko Andrei I. , Krenske Elizabeth H. , Chow Sharon , Gordon Victoria A. , Reddell Paul W. , Pierce Carly J. , Parsons Peter G. , Boyle Glen M. , Williams Craig M.
Published: February 2020

The Australian rainforest plant, Croton insularis, has provided a further casbane diterpene family member in the form of EBC‐342, which contains a novel tetrahydrofuran ring. A combination of DP4 and TD‐DFT CD methods were required to confirm both structure and absolute stereochemistry.
Scalable Enantiomeric Separation of Dialkyl‐Arylphosphine Oxides Based on Host–Guest Complexation with TADDOL‐Derivatives, and their Recovery
Authors: Varga Bence , Herbay Réka , Székely György , Holczbauer Tamás , Madarász János , Mátravölgyi Béla , Fogassy Elemér , Keglevich György , Bagi Péter
Published: February 2020

Several dialkyl‐arylphosphine oxides were prepared, and the enantioseparation of the corresponding racemates was elaborated with host–guest complexation using TADDOL‐derivatives. The crystallization conditions were optimized and two separate crystallization methods, one in organic solvent, and the other in water, were found to yield five examples of phosphine oxides with enantiomeric excess values higher than 94 %. A gram scale resolution was performed, and both enantiomers of the methyl‐phenyl‐propyl‐phosphine oxide were separated with (R,R)‐ or (S,S)‐spiro‐TADDOL. The intermolecular interactions responsible for the enantiomeric recognition between the chiral host and guest molecules were investigated by single‐crystal X‐ray diffractional structural determinations. The similarities in the structural patterns of a few diastereomeric crystals were checked by powder X‐ray diffraction, as well. Organic solvent nanofiltration (OSN) was used as a scalable technique for the decomposition of the corresponding phosphine oxide–spiro‐TADDOL molecular complexes, and for the recovery of the phosphine oxide enantiomers and resolving agents.
Electrochemical Detection of Alloxan on Reduced Graphene Oxide Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode
Authors: Paramasivam Selvaraj , Raju Chikkili Venkateswara , Hemalatha Sandu , Mathiyarasu Jayaraman , Kumar Shanmugam Senthil
Published: February 2020

Alloxan is a toxic reagent that strongly induces the diabetes by destroying insulin‐producing β‐cells in the pancreas of living organisms. The reduction product of alloxan is dialuric acid, which is responsible for the intracellular generation of ROS to enhance the stress in living cells to cause kidney disease or diabetic nephropathy. Herein, we studied for the first time the electrochemical properties of alloxan on reduced graphene oxide modified glassy carbon electrode (rGO/GCE) in 0.1 M phosphate buffer solution (PBS) at pH 7. The obtained results were compared with graphene oxide modified GCE (GO/GCE) and bare GCE surfaces. The modified rGO/GCE showed well defined redox couple with 10 fold increase in both reduction as well as oxidation peak current for alloxan than that of GO/GCE and bare GCE. Differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) technique shows the linear increase in both oxidation and reduction peak current of alloxan in the range of 30 μM to 3 mM with LOD of 1.2 μM. An amperometric signal of alloxan is also increases with respect to each addition of 50 μM of alloxan on rGO/GCE at constant potential of −0.05 V. The linear range of alloxan is observed between 50 μM to 750 μM (S/N=3). This kind of rGO/GCE surface is more suitable platform or sensor matrix for estimating unknown concentration of alloxan molecule in the real biological systems.
3Rs‐friendly approach to exogenous metabolic activation that supports high‐throughput genetic toxicology testing
Authors: Tian Shuchang , Cyr Aiyana , Zeise Karen , Bryce Steven M. , Hall Nikki , Bemis Jeffrey C. , Dertinger Stephen D.
Published: February 2020

MultiFlow® DNA Damage—p53, γH2AX, Phospho‐Histone H3 is a miniaturized, flow cytometry‐based assay that provides genotoxic mode of action information by distinguishing clastogens, aneugens, and nongenotoxicants. Work to date has focused on the p53‐competent human cell line TK6. While mammalian cell genotoxicity assays typically supply exogenous metabolic activation in the form of concentrated rat liver S9, this is a less‐than‐ideal approach for several reasons, including 3Rs considerations. Here, we describe our experiences with low concentration S9 and saturating co‐factors which were allowed to remain in contact with cells and test chemicals for 24 continuous hours. We exposed TK6 cells in 96‐well plates to each of 15 reference chemicals over a range of concentrations, both in the presence and absence of 0.25% v/v phenobarbital/β‐naphthoflavone‐induced rat liver S9. After 4 and 24 hr of treatment cell aliquots were added to wells of a microtiter plate containing the working detergent/stain/antibody cocktail. After a brief incubation robotic sampling was employed for walk‐away flow cytometric data acquisition. PROAST benchmark dose (BMD) modeling was used to characterize the resulting dose–response curves. For each of the 8 reference pro‐genotoxicants studied, relative nuclei count, γH2AX, and/or p53 biomarker BMD values were order(s) of magnitude lower for 0.25% S9 conditions compared to 0% S9. Conversely, several of the direct‐acting reference chemicals exhibited appreciably lower cytotoxicity and/or genotoxicity BMD values in the presence of S9 (eg, resorcinol). These results prove the efficacy of the low concentration S9 system, and indicate that an efficient and highly scalable multiplexed assay can effectively identify chemicals that require bioactivation to exert their genotoxic effects.
Implementation and performance evaluation of an inertial navigation system/global navigation satellite system real‐time kinematic Ntrip navigation system aided by a robot operating system‐based emulated odometer for high‐accuracy land vehicle navigation in urban environments
Authors: Galdames Jorge P. M. , Milhor Carlos E. , Magalhães Daniel V. , Caurin Glauco A. P. , Becker Marcelo
Published: February 2020

Advanced land‐vehicle navigation commonly uses integrated systems to counteract global navigation satellite system (GNSS) solution degradation. This occurs mainly in urban environments due to blockage of the satellite signals. This paper presents a loosely coupled inertial navigation system/GNSS navigation system that combines an attitude and heading reference system (AHRS) device with a dual‐frequency dual‐antenna GNSS heading receiver. The integrated navigation system is aided by a low‐cost odometer which replaces external wheel speed sensors usually installed in autonomous vehicles. The proposed odometer extracts the anti‐lock braking system‐generated pulses of rear wheels from vehicle controller area network messages. Following, it converts them into software‐generated signal pulses which are sent to the AHRS device through the serial port. The system platform uses a mobile internet data link to get differential GNSS corrections in real‐time from a public Ntrip—networked transport of Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services via internet protocol—broadcaster in order to allow the GNSS receiver to operate in differential global positioning system/real‐time kinematic (RTK) modes. Thus, the integrated navigation system provides centimeter‐level positioning accuracy at 100 Hz. Since the positioning accuracy is severely affected by numerous factors, this work proposes a replicated 24 full factorial design with the purpose of evaluating the in‐field obtained positioning performance under different factors combinations. The experimental design chosen allows to know under which conditions it is feasible to replace the available GNSS velocity by the proposed odometry solution, when they are used as navigation aids, and knowing that the proposed odometry has a low resolution. The analysis of 32‐runs factorial design results, using a significance level of .05, demonstrated that the proposed odometry can overcome GNSS/RTK velocity.
Ag/In lead‐free double perovskites
Authors: Liu Fang , Marongiu Daniela , Pau Riccardo , Sarritzu Valerio , Wang Qingqian , Lai Stefano , Lehmann Alessandra G. , Quochi Francesco , Saba Michele , Mura Andrea , Bongiovanni Giovanni , Mattoni Alessandro , Caddeo Claudia , Bosin Andrea , Filippetti Alessio
Published: February 2020

Lead‐free Cs2AgInCl6 and Cs2AgInBr6 double perovskites are studied by a combination of advanced ab‐initio calculations and photoluminescence experiments. We show that they are insulators with direct band gaps of 2.53 and 1.17 eV, respectively; most importantly, they are characterized by unusually low absorption rates in a ~1 eV wide energy region above the band gap, caused by rather peculiar electronic properties. Consequently, this low absorption conveys very long recombination lifetimes, up to milliseconds at low temperature. Our theoretical analysis suggests that such materials can achieve a good compromise between photoconversion efficiency (above 10%) and visible transmittance (above 30%), which makes them potentially suited for lead‐free semitransparent solar cell applications.

image
Effect of high hydrostatic pressure on aroma components, amino acids, and fatty acids of Hami melon (Cucumis melo L. var. reticulatus naud.) juice
Authors: Pei Longying , Li Jie , Xu Zhenli , Chen Nan , Wu Xiaoxia , Chen Jiluan
Published: February 2020

The changes and relationships between the volatile compounds and fatty acids, and between volatile compounds and free amino acids were analyzed after they were handled by 400 and 500 MPa (45°C/10 min) high hydrostatic pressure (HHP). The volatile components of 31, 30, and 32 were detected in the untreated, 400, and 500 MPa samples, respectively. Unlike the ketones and acids, the three contents, including ester (59.59%–71.34%), alcohol (5.95%–7.56%), and aldehyde (0.36%–1.25%), were greatly changed. While HHP treatment exerted a few effects on the contents of 12 kinds of fatty acids. With the increase in pressure, the contents of palmitic acid, linolenic acid, and α‐linolenic acid were remarkably reduced. The correlations between flavor compounds and amino acids, and between flavor compounds and fatty acids were studied by Pearson's correlation analysis and visualized with using the corrplot package in R software. The analysis showed that the amino acids were positively correlated with (E)‐6‐nonenal, (2E,6Z)‐nona‐2,6‐dienal and (Z)‐6‐nonen‐1‐ol, while they were negatively correlated with nonanal, (Z)‐3‐hexen‐1‐ol and ethyl caproate. Besides, the fatty acids were positively correlated with the esters of 2,3‐butanediol diacetate and 2‐methyl propyl acetate, while they were negatively correlated with (E)‐2‐octenal and (Z)‐6‐nonen‐1‐ol.
A randomized controlled pilot study of the effectiveness of magnolia tea on alleviating depression in postnatal women
Authors: Xue Lili , Zhang Jie , Shen Huaxiang , Ai Ling , Wu Rongrong
Published: February 2020

The magnolia tea has been used in traditional oriental medicine for multiple purposes including sleep aid. Postpartum depression is a mental illness that adversely affects the health and well‐being of many families with newborns. Given the known effectiveness and relative safety, herein we aimed to investigate whether magnolia tea has a palliative effect on postpartum depression. The qualified participants were randomly assigned to the intervention group or the control group. The participants in the intervention group drunk magnolia tea, while the control group received regular postpartum care only. The outcome variables including Postpartum Sleep Quality Scale (PSQS), Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), and Postpartum Fatigue Scale (PFS) were assessed and compared. In comparison with the control group, the intervention group demonstrated significant difference for physical‐symptom‐related sleep inefficiency (PSQS Factor 2) at 3 weeks post‐test (t = −2.10, p = .03). The comparison results also revealed significant differences for PFS at both 3 weeks post‐test (t = −2.02, p = .04) and 6 weeks post‐test (t = −1.99, p = .04). Further, magnolia tea intervention significantly alleviated the symptoms of depression, reflected by the EPDS scores at 3 weeks post‐test (t = −2.38, p = .02) and 6 weeks post‐test (t = −2.13, p = .02). Our trial results suggested that drinking single‐ingredient magnolia tea for a 3‐week duration has positive effects on postpartum women. Magnolia tea is recommended as a supplementary approach to ameliorate sleep quality of postpartum women, while alleviating their symptoms of depression.
Smart Filters
Authors: Wessling Matthias
Published: February 2020

Synthetic membranes are an essential technology for water treatment and purification. Physical models are now also being combined with artificial intelligence, opening up new possibilities for the provision of safe drinking water.
Teaching Alexa
Authors: Häb‐Umbach Reinhold
Published: February 2020

Combining acoustic signal processing with automated learning: Communications engineers are using microphone arrays and deep neural networks to improve speech recognition under difficult conditions. In the long term, these sensor networks could also help to improve digital virtual assistants.
Behind the Scenes of Global Theatre History
Authors: Leonhardt Nic
Published: February 2020

How do you research and recount the global history of theatre? A Reinhart Koselleck project in Munich used unusual sources such as passport applications and passenger lists to trace the international story of an ephemeral art form.
It's All About Resources
Authors: Ackermann Lutz
Published: February 2020

Organic catalysis: The activation of ubiquitous but unreactive carbon‐hydrogen bonds has emerged as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional techniques of molecular synthesis. This strategy can be used to minimise toxic by‐products and develop new functional materials, which may also be beneficial in applications such as polymer synthesis and drug development, among others.
Assimilating snow observations to snow interception process simulations
Authors: Lv Zhibang , Pomeroy John W.
Published: February 2020

Snow interception is a crucial hydrological process in cold regions needleleaf forests, but is rarely measured directly. Indirect estimates of snow interception can be made by measuring the difference in the increase in snow accumulation between the forest floor and a nearby clearing over the course of a storm. Pairs of automatic weather stations with acoustic snow depth sensors provide an opportunity to estimate this, if snow density can be estimated reliably. Three approaches for estimating fresh snow density were investigated: weighted post‐storm density increments from the physically based Snobal model, fresh snow density estimated empirically from air temperature (Hedstrom, N. R., et al. [1998]. Hydrological Processes, 12, 1611–1625), and fresh snow density estimated empirically from air temperature and wind speed (Jordan, R. E., et al. [1999]. Journal of Geophysical Research, 104, 7785–7806). Automated snow depth observations from adjacent forest and clearing sites and estimated snow densities were used to determine snowstorm snow interception in a subalpine forest in the Canadian Rockies, Alberta, Canada. Then the estimated snow interception and measured interception information from a weighed, suspended tree and a time‐lapse camera were assimilated into a model, which was created using the Cold Regions Hydrological Modelling platform (CRHM), using Ensemble Kalman Filter or a simple rule‐based direct insertion method. Interception determined using density estimates from the Hedstrom‐Pomeroy fresh snow density equation agreed best with observations. Assimilating snow interception information from automatic snow depth measurements improved modelled snow interception timing by 7% and magnitude by 13%, compared to an open loop simulation driven by a numerical weather model; its accuracy was close to that simulated using locally observed meteorological data. Assimilation of tree‐measured snow interception improved the snow interception simulation timing and magnitude by 18 and 19%, respectively. Time‐lapse camera snow interception information assimilation improved the snow interception simulation timing by 32% and magnitude by 7%. The benefits of assimilation were greatly influenced by assimilation frequency and quality of the forcing data.
Importance of the delivery‐to‐insertion interval in immediate postpartum intrauterine device insertion: A secondary analysis
Authors: Lerma Klaira , Bhamrah Renita , Singh Sharad , Blumenthal Paul D.
Published: February 2020

Objective

To evaluate the delivery‐to‐insertion interval for copper postpartum intrauterine devices (PPIUDs).

Methods

Secondary analysis of two related studies at five academic sites in India from March 2015 to July 2016. IUDs were inserted within 48 hours of vaginal delivery. Women (n=560) were grouped by whether they underwent postplacental (≤10 minutes) or immediate (>10 minutes) insertion. Outcomes were complete expulsion at the 6–8‐week follow‐up (primary), and IUD‐to‐fundus distance, as assessed by postinsertion ultrasound (secondary).

Results

Overall, 93 (16.6%) women received a postplacental PPIUD and 467 (83.4%) received an immediate PPIUD. Complete expulsion at follow‐up was 3.2% (n=3) in the postplacental and 7.5% (n=35) in the immediate postpartum group (P=0.176; difference in proportions, 4.3%; 95% confidence interval, −2.0 to 8.1). Distance from the fundus did not differ between the two groups (P=0.107); high fundal placement (≤10 mm from the internal endometrial verge) was achieved for most women.

Conclusion

The present data challenge previous guidance on the timing of PPIUD insertion. The 10‐minute insertion window is a barrier to uptake and should be reassessed for inclusion in service delivery guidelines. A flexible interval would accommodate the multiple post‐delivery tasks of providers and increase access to PPIUD.
Hydrogen‐rich water alleviates cyclosporine A‐induced nephrotoxicity via the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway
Authors: Lu Yi , Li Chun‐Fang , Ping Na‐Na , Sun Yu‐Yao , Wang Zheng , Zhao Gong‐Xiao , Yuan Shi‐Hui , Zibrila Abdoulaye Issotina , Soong Lynn , Liu Jin‐Jun
Published: February 2020

Oxidative stress induced by long‐term cyclosporine A (CsA) administration is a major cause of chronic nephrotoxicity, which is characterized by tubular atrophy, tubular cell apoptosis, and interstitial fibrosis in the progression of organ transplantation. Although hydrogen‐rich water (HRW) has been used to prevent various oxidative stress‐related diseases, its underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study investigated the effects of HRW on CsA‐induced nephrotoxicity and its potential mechanisms. After administration of CsA (25 mg/kg/day), rats were treated with or without HRW (12 mL/kg) for 4 weeks. Renal function and vascular activity were investigated. Histological changes in kidney tissues were analyzed using Masson's trichrome and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick‐end labeling stains. Oxidative stress markers and the activation of the Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1)/nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway were also measured. We found that CsA increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malonaldehyde (MDA), but it reduced glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels. Such alterations induced vascular dysfunction, tubular atrophy, interstitial fibrosis, and tubular apoptosis. This was evident secondary to an increase in urinary protein, serum creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen, ultimately leading to renal dysfunction. Conversely, HRW decreased levels of ROS and MDA while increasing the activity of GSH and SOD. This was accompanied by an improvement in vascular and renal function. Moreover, HRW significantly decreased the level of Keap1 and increased the expression of Nrf2, NADPH dehydrogenase quinone 1, and heme oxygenase 1. In conclusion, HRW restored the balance of redox status, suppressed oxidative stress damage, and improved kidney function induced by CsA via activation of the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway.
Hepatoprotective effect of allicin against acetaminophen‐induced liver injury: Role of inflammasome pathway, apoptosis, and liver regeneration
Authors: Samra Yara A. , Hamed Mohamed F. , El‐Sheakh Ahmed R.
Published: February 2020

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose leads to liver injury. NLRP3 inflammasome is a key player in APAP‐induced inflammation. Also, apoptosis and liver regeneration play an important role in liver injury. Therefore, we assessed allicin's protective effect on APAP‐induced hepatotoxicity and studied its effect on NLRP3 inflammasome and apoptosis. Mice in the APAP group were injected by APAP (250 mg/kg, intraperitoneal). The allicin‐treated group received allicin orally (10 mg/kg/d) during 7 days before APAP injection. Serum and hepatic tissues were separated 24 hours after APAP injection. Serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), albumin, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) were assessed using the colorimetric method. Hepatic NLRP3 inflammasome, caspase‐1, and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) were estimated using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Hepatic Bcl‐2 and Ki‐67 were investigated by immunohistochemistry. APAP significantly increased AST, ALT, and ALP, whereas allicin significantly decreased their levels. Also, APAP significantly decreased albumin and allicin significantly improved it. APAP produced changes in liver morphology, including inflammation and massive coagulative necrosis. Allicin protected the liver from APAP‐induced necrosis, apoptosis, and hepatocellular degeneration via increasing Bcl‐2 and Ki‐67 levels. APAP significantly increased the hepatic MDA, whereas allicin significantly prevented this increase. APAP markedly activated the NLRP3 inflammasome pathway and consequently increased the production of caspase‐1 and IL‐1β. Interestingly, we found that allicin significantly inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation, which resulted in decreased caspase‐1 and IL‐1β levels. Allicin has a hepatoprotective effect against APAP‐induced liver injury via the decline of oxidative stress and inhibition of the inflammasome pathway and apoptosis. Therefore, allicin might be a novel tool to halt the progression of APAP‐stimulated hepatotoxicity.
Astragalus polysaccharides alleviates LPS‐induced inflammation via the NF‐κB/MAPK signaling pathway
Authors: Dong Na , Li Xinran , Xue Chenyu , Zhang Lei , Wang Chensi , Xu Xinyao , Shan Anshan
Published: February 2020

Early weaning usually causes intestinal disorders, enteritis, and diarrhea in young animals and human infants. Astragalus polysaccharides (APS) possesses anti‐inflammatory activity. To study the anti‐inflammatory mechanisms of APS and its potential effects on intestinal health, we performed an RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) study in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated porcine intestinal epithelial cells (IPEC‐J2) in vitro. In addition, LPS‐stimulated BALB/c mice were used to study the effects of APS on intestinal inflammation in vivo. The results from the RNA‐seq analysis show that there were 107, 756, and 5 differentially expressed genes in the control versus LPS, LPS versus LPS+APS, and control versus LPS+APS comparison groups, respectively. The results of Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analysis indicated that the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) signaling pathways play significant roles in the regulation of inflammatory factors and chemokine expression by APS. Further verification of the above two pathways by using western blot and immunofluorescence analysis revealed that the gene expression levels of the phosphorylated p38 MAPK, ERK1/2, and NF‐κB p65 were inhibited by APS, while the expression of IκB‐α protein was significantly increased (p < .05), indicating that APS inhibits the production of inflammatory factors and chemokines by the inhibition of activation of the MAPK and NF‐κB inflammatory pathways induced by LPS stimulation. Animal experiments further demonstrated that prefeeding APS in BALB/c mice can alleviate the expression of the jejunal inflammatory factors interleukin 6 (IL‐6), IL‐Iβ, and tumor necrosis factor‐α induced by LPS stimulation and improve jejunal villus morphology.
The evaluation of cytokines to help establish diagnosis and guide treatment of autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases
Authors: Chetaille Nézondet Anne-Laure , Poubelle Patrice E , Pelletier Martin
Published: February 2020

Our knowledge of the role of cytokines in pathologic conditions has increased considerably with the emergence of molecular and genetic studies, particularly in the case of autoinflammatory monogenic diseases. Many rare disorders, considered orphan until recently, are directly related to abnormal gene regulation, and the treatment with biologic agents (biologics) targeting cytokine receptors, intracellular signaling or specific cytokines improve the symptoms of an increasing number of chronic inflammatory diseases. As it is currently impossible to systematically conduct genetic studies for all patients with autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases, the evaluation of cytokines can be seen as a simple, less time consuming, and less expensive alternative. This approach could be especially useful when the diagnosis of syndromes of diseases of unknown etiology remains problematic. The evaluation of cytokines could also help avoid the current trial-and-error approach, which has the disadvantages of exposing patients to ineffective drugs with possible unnecessary side effects and permanent organ damages. In this review, we discuss the various possibilities, as well as the limitations of evaluating the cytokine profiles of patients suffering from autoinflammatory and autoimmune diseases, with methods such as direct detection of cytokines in the plasma/serum or following ex vivo stimulation of PBMCs leading to the production of their cytokine secretome. The patients’ secretome, combined with biomarkers ranging from genetic and epigenetic analyses to immunologic biomarkers, may help not only the diagnosis but also guide the choice of biologics for more efficient and rapid treatments.
Quantitative Susceptibility Mapping for Characterization of Intraplaque Hemorrhage and Calcification in Carotid Atherosclerotic Disease
Authors: Wang Chaoyue , Zhang Yue , Du Jingwen , Huszár István N. , Liu Saifeng , Chen Yongsheng , Buch Sagar , Wu Fang , Liu Yuehong , Jenkinson Mark , Hsu Charlie Chia‐Tsong , Fan Zhaoyang , Haacke E. Mark , Yang Qi
Published: February 2020

Background

Carotid artery intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH), an unstable component of atherosclerosis, is associated with an increased risk of stroke.

Purpose

To investigate quantitative susceptibility mapping (QSM) as a tool for the evaluation of IPH and calcification in vivo.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population

Ten healthy volunteers and 15 patients.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T Susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI), magnetization‐prepared rapid acquisition with gradient echo (MP‐RAGE), T1‐weighted sampling perfection with application of optimized contrasts using different flip angle evolution (T1‐SPACE), T2‐weighted turbo spin‐echo (T2WI), and time‐of‐flight (TOF) sequences.

Assessment

The vessel wall area of the carotid artery was measured with QSM and compared with T1‐SPACE on healthy volunteers. Four radiologists, blinded to clinical history and patient identity, determined the presence and area of IPH on MP‐RAGE and QSM, as well as the area of calcification on T1‐SPACE and QSM.

Statistical Tests

Bland–Altman analysis, Pearson correlation coefficients, linear regression analyses were performed to evaluate the concordance of area measurements. Cohen's kappa (κ) was analyzed to determine the agreement between IPH detections. The paired t‐test was used to compare the group differences.

Results

In 423 matched slices, 20.1% (85/423) and 19.6% (83/423) were detected to have IPH on MP‐RAGE and QSM, respectively. IPH detection by QSM and MP‐RAGE showed good agreement (κ = 0.822, P < 0.001) between the two methods. There was no significant difference in IPH area measurements between QSM and MP‐RAGE (7.28 mm2 ± 6.41 vs. 7.16 mm2 ± 5.99, P = 0.575). There was no significant difference in calcification area measurement between QSM and T1‐SPACE (3.51 mm2 ± 1.78 vs. 3.41 mm2 ± 2.02, P = 0.783).

Data Conclusion

QSM is a novel imaging tool for the identification of IPH in patients with carotid atherosclerosis and enables differentiation of IPH and calcification.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:534–541.
Imaging Biomarkers of the Physis: Cartilage Volume on MRI vs. Tract Volume and Length on Diffusion Tensor Imaging
Authors: Duong Phuong , Mostoufi‐Moab Sogol , Raya José G. , Jaimes Camilo , Delgado Jorge , Jaramillo Diego
Published: February 2020

Background

Current methods to predict height and growth failure are imprecise. MRI measures of physeal cartilage are promising biomarkers for growth.

Purpose

In the physis, to assess how 3D MRI volume measurements, and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) measurements (tract volume and length) correlate with growth parameters and detect differences in growth. We compared patients exposed to cis‐retinoic acid, which causes physeal damage and growth failure, with normal subjects.

Study Type

Case–control.

Population

Twenty pediatric neuroblastoma survivors treated with cis‐retinoic acid and 20 age‐ and sex‐matched controls.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T; DTI and 3D double‐echo steady‐state (DESS) sequences.

Assessment

On distal femoral MR studies, physeal 3D volume and DTI tract measurements were calculated and compared to height.

Statistical Tests

We used partial Spearman correlation, analysis of covariance, logistic regression, Wald test, and the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

The height percentile correlated most strongly with DTI tract volumes (r = 0.74), followed by mean tract length (r = 0.53) and 3D volume (r = 0.40) (all P < 0.02). Only tract volumes and lengths correlated with annualized growth velocity. Relative to controls, patients showed smaller tract volumes (8.00 cc vs. 13.71 cc, P < 0.01), shorter tract lengths (5.92 mm vs 6.99 mm, P = 0.03), and smaller ratios of 3D cartilage volume to tract length; but no difference (4.51 cc vs 4.85 cc) in 3D MRI volumes. The 10 patients with the lowest height percentiles had smaller tract volumes (5.07 cc vs. 10.93 cc, P < 0.01), but not significantly different 3D MRI volumes. Tract volume is associated with abnormal growth, with an accuracy of 75%.

Data Conclusion

DTI tract volume of the physis/metaphysis predicts abnormal growth better than physeal cartilage volumetric measurement and correlates best with height percentile and growth velocity.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2 J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2020;52:544–551.
Synthesis of Stretchable, Environmentally Stable, Conducting Polymer PEDOT Using a Modified Acid Template Random Copolymer
Authors: Kim Youngno , Kim Jooyoung , Lee Hongjoo , Park Chanil , Im Soeun , Kim Jung Hyun
Published: February 2020

Although poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) has good electrical conductivity and high transparency in most applications, its usage in stretchable applications is limited because of its rigidity, reduced conductivity after elongation, and poor environmental stability. This study addresses these issues by incorporating the soft and relatively hydrophobic moiety poly(ethylene glycol) methacrylate (PEGMA). By incorporating PEGMA randomly in the rigid PSS chain, a soft and hydrophobic copolymer P(SS‐co‐PEGMA) is obtained. The conducting P(SS‐co‐PEGMA)‐based polymer‐coated PET film exhibits good resistance even after 400% elongation. In addition, PEDOT:P(SS‐co‐PEGMA) has better environmental stability than PEDOT:PSS because of the presence of the relatively hydrophobic PEGMA moiety in the chain. Moreover, the potential applicability of the synthesized flexible and stretchable electronic material as a stretchable matrix is established, which includes inorganic conductors (AgNW). When this material is stretched, it can be applied as a conductive interconnector to maintain the electrical pathway, instead of the other insulating matrices.
Surface Modification of PTLG Terpolymer Using PNIPAAm and Its Cell Adhesion/Detachment Behavior
Authors: Gong Li , Liu Dongyang , Fan Tiantang , Qin Jingwen , Li Jiafeng , Zhang Qin , Wu Zeng , Fan Zhongyong , Liu Qing
Published: February 2020

Novel biodegradable terpolymer poly (1,3‐trimethylene carbonate‐b‐(l‐lactide‐r‐glycolide)) grafted with poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PTLG‐PNIPAAm) is prepared by plasma‐induced polymerization. The experimental results show that PNIPAAm segments of samples have a dramatic effect on surface layer structure and cell behavior of PTLG‐PNIPAAm. The thickness of PNIPAAm layer on PTLG surface increases rapidly from 50 nm to 1 µm with the molecular weight of samples increasing. Cell toxicity analysis indicates that PTLG‐PNIPAAm possesses good cytocompatibility to human adipose‐derived stem cells (hADSCs). For cell adhesion and detachment process on modified surface, the “hook and loop” process is proposed to understand the cell adhesion on modified surface with coiled conformation PNIPAAm segments at 37 °C, and then the cell sheet detached from surface spontaneously due to the conformation of PNIPAAm segments extends below its lower critical solution temperature. The research demonstrates that with increasing thickness of the PNIPAAm layer on PTLG surface, the hADSCs with well cell viability presents rapider thermal‐responsive detachment behavior. Therefore, the surface modification of biodegradable PTLG with stimuli‐sensitive functional PNIPAAm is an efficacious route for further application in stem cell culture and tissue engineering stent.
Spillover effects from unintended trials on attitude and behavior: Promoting new products through access‐based services
Authors: Lehr Adrian , Buettgen Marion , Benoit Sabine , Merfeld Katrin
Published: February 2020

Access‐based services (ABS) provide an opportunity for brands to promote their new products by enabling (unintended) trials. However, the mechanisms and impact of consumer exposure to products in ABS and the subsequent potential spillover effects on both the brand and the product perception are largely unknown. Our hypotheses are derived from the information integration theory (IIT) and subsequently tested. Study 1 is a field study investigating an unintended trial moderated by involvement and positive experience. The results indicate the positive effects of the unintended trial on product and brand attitudes, brand purchase intention, and word of mouth. In line with IIT, these effects are more pronounced for positive trial experience, although in contrast to IIT, they are less pronounced for high‐involvement consumers. While the results of Study 2, an online experiment, show substantial effects of both trials compared with nontrials, they also reveal that intended and unintended trials have a similar impact on attitude, but ABS experiences have a stronger positive impact on brand purchase intention. We thus recommend that brand managers promote not only new products but also their brands in unintended trials. This study fills a gap in current discussions about the trial effect(s) of ABS.
Shape‐Programmable Architectured Hydrogels Sensitive to Ultrasound
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Behl Marc , Balk Maria , Peng Xingzhou , Lendlein Andreas
Published: February 2020

On‐demand motion of highly swollen polymer systems can be triggered by changes in pH, ion concentrations, or by heat. Here, shape‐programmable, architectured hydrogels are introduced, which respond to ultrasonic‐cavitation‐based mechanical forces (CMF) by directed macroscopic movements. The concept is the implementation and sequential coupling of multiple functions (swellability in water, sensitivity to ultrasound, shape programmability, and shape‐memory) in a semi‐interpenetrating polymer network (s‐IPN). The semi‐IPN‐based hydrogels are designed to function through rhodium coordination (Rh‐s‐IPNH). These coordination bonds act as temporary crosslinks. The porous hydrogels with coordination bonds (degree of swelling from 300 ± 10 to 680 ± 60) exhibit tensile strength σmax up to 250 ± 60 kPa. Shape fixity ratios up to 90% and shape recovery ratios up to 94% are reached. Potential applications are switches or mechanosensors.
Field opposes new guidance allowing states to block grant Medicaid program
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2020

In a move to support states with more flexibility to improve the health of their Medicaid populations and within a defined budget, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced Jan. 30 the administration's new policy to overhaul the program and convert it to a block grant plan. The mental health community, which opposes the idea, says the move could put millions of people on Medicaid at risk of losing health care access.
New CDC report finds small, yet concerning, suicide increase
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: February 2020

Suicide rates have increased in the United States by more than 1%, according to new data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC's) new mortality report, which found that suicide remains the 10th‐leading cause of death.
A 77‐GHz polarization‐agile microelectromechanical system antenna
Authors: Jaiswal Anushruti , Dey Sukomal , Abegaonkar Mahesh P. , Koul Shiban K.
Published: February 2020

A 77 GHz polarization‐agile radio frequency microelectromechanical system (RF MEMS) patch antenna integrated with single‐pole single throw switches is presented. The polarization of the proposed antenna can be switched among linear polarization, right‐hand circular polarization, and left‐hand circular polarization. The RF MEMS antenna is fabricated on 25 mil alumina with permittivity of 9.8. The reflection and radiation parameters of antenna including return loss, radiation patterns, gain, and axial ratio are measured and are found to be in correlation with simulated results. The proposed work is useful for automotive radar applications.
Pelvic floor dysfunction negatively impacts general functional performance in patients with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Aguilar‐Zafra Sandra , del Corral Tamara , Vidal‐Quevedo Celia , Rodríguez‐Durán Paula , López‐de‐Uralde‐Villanueva Ibai
Published: February 2020

Background

There is a lack of evidence to assess whether gait functionality can be affected by the condition of the pelvic floor musculature in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between pelvic floor functionality and general functional performance, and also their relationship depending on dependence degree in MS patients.

Participants

Forty‐three MS patients performed the study. The pelvic floor musculature and its functionality were evaluated by urinary incontinence (UI), fecal incontinence, and constipation. General functional performance was evaluated by the Barthel index, the Health Status Questionnaire Short Form‐12 (SF‐12), and the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test.

Results

UI was moderately related to general functional performance (SF‐12 Physical: R = −0.413; Barthel index: R = −0.501; TUG: R = 0.482). The comparative analysis showed differences between UI and gait functionality (P = .008), with poorer results in the TUG in patients with moderate/severe dependence (P < .001).

Conclusion

UI appears to have a negative impact on the performance of daily living activities, walking, and the physical dimension of quality of life in patients with MS. In addition, patients with moderate or severe dependence showed higher UI and gait disturbance compared with those with mild dependence or independence.
Biodegradable and antibacterial poly(azomethine‐urethane)‐chitosan hydrogels for potential drug delivery application
Authors: Kamaci Musa , Kaya İsmet
Published: February 2020

In this study, biodegradable and antibacterial poly(azomethine‐urethane) (PAMU)‐ and chitosan (CS)‐based hydrogels have been prepared for controlled drug delivery applications. Structural and morphological characterizations of the hydrogels were performed via Fourier transform‐infrared and scanning electron microscopy analyses. Thermal stability, hydrophilicity, swelling, mechanical, biodegradation, protein absorption properties, and drug delivery application of PAMU‐ and CS‐based hydrogels were also investigated. The swelling performance of the hydrogels was studied in acidic, neutral, and alkaline media. Swelling results showed that the hydrogels have higher swelling capacity in acidic and alkaline media than neutral medium. Biodegradation experiments of the hydrogels were also studied via hydrolytic and enzymatic experiments. The drug release property of the hydrogel was carried out using 5‐fluoro uracil (5‐FU), and 5‐FU release capacity of the hydrogels was found in the range from 40.10% to 58.40% after 3 days.
Simulation of tunneling distance and electrical conductivity for polymer carbon nanotubes nanocomposites by interphase thickness and network density
Authors: Zare Yasser , Rhee Kyong Y. , Park Soo‐Jin
Published: February 2020

This article develops simple equations for tunneling distance between adjacent nanoparticles (d) and electrical conductivity of polymer/carbon nanotubes (CNT) nanocomposites (PCNT). The developed model considers the significances of CNT dimensions and waviness as well as interphase region surrounding CNT on the conductivity of nanocomposites. Moreover, d is defined by the sizes of CNT, interphase thickness and network density. The roles of all parameters for nanoparticles, interphase, percolation threshold and conductive network in the nanocomposite conductivity and tunneling distance are determined. Among the studied parameters, the fraction of percolated CNT of 0.6 and d = 1 nm provide the highest conductivity of PCNT, while d > 2.5 nm cause an insulated nanocomposite. In addition, the high concentration of thin CNT, a thick interphase, poor waviness, low percolation threshold, and the small fraction of percolated CNT produce an optimized level for d.
Self–Esteem among Chinese Cohorts: Its Temporal Trend and Its Relationships with Socioecological Factors, 1993–2016
Authors: Li Liman Man Wai , Li Wen–Qiao , Mei Dongmei , Wang Yiheng
Published: February 2020

Self–esteem affects individuals in a variety of psychological processes substantially and extensively. While an increase in self–esteem over time was observed in the USA, different patterns of temporal change in self–esteem were observed in other societies. We analysed the responses ( n = 305 229) collected between 1993 and 2016 from 609 articles to examine the patterns of temporal change in self–esteem in China and its relations with socioecological conditions. Additionally, we explored the patterns in different groups, including secondary school students (158 samples; n = 97 751), college students (427 samples; n = 153 474), and community participants (232 samples; n = 54 004). Some major findings were noted: (i) overall, the level of self–esteem increased over time. However, we also found a significant curvilinear trend in self–esteem with a decline followed by a recent increase; (ii) some evidence for the relationship between socioecological factors and self–esteem was obtained; and (iii) the patterns varied in different cohort groups. Specifically, secondary school students showed a different pattern, in which their self–esteem level did not show a significant linear trend and was not correlated with the examined socioecological factors. The implications on the theories for the relationship between personality characteristics and socioecological conditions were discussed.
Merging Structural and Process–Related Approaches to the Study of Agreeableness: A Preregistered Replication and Extension Attempt
Authors: Vize Colin E. , Lynam Donald R.
Published: February 2020

Agreeableness is one of the major domains included within prominent hierarchical models of personality like the five–factor model. (Low) agreeableness is the strongest correlate of a variety of antisocial behaviours relative to the other five–factor model domains. Although there is substantial evidence that (low) agreeableness is arguably the most important personality correlate of various antisocial behaviours, this evidence is descriptive and provides little information on the direction or processes underlying the relation. Process–related research has started to provide more insight into how agreeableness–related traits give rise to various antisocial and prosocial behaviours. The proposed study looked to first replicate previous research on some of the potential cognitive–emotional processes related to agreeableness and then conduct exploratory analyses to identify which, if any, of the empirically identified facets of agreeableness bear specific relations to the processes under study. Overall, we were unable to replicate the primary effects of interest in regard to processes of agreeableness and found little support for our preregistered confirmatory and exploratory hypotheses despite having high power (≥.94) to detect these effects. Nonetheless, process models of personality remain at the vanguard of personality research, and we discuss how the current results can inform future work in this area. © 2020 European Association of Personality Psychology