bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast determination of peroxymonosulfate by flow injection chemiluminescence using the Tb(III) ligand in micelle medium
Authors: Tang Man , Zhang Bo‐Tao , Teng Yanguo , Liu Meilin , Zhang Yang
Published: November 2019

Based on the chemiluminescence (CL) phenomenon of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) and Tb(III) enhanced by its ligand in a micelle microenvironment, a fast and sensitive flow injection CL method for PMS detection was proposed and applied to the analysis of different samples and PMS decomposition. Under the optimized conditions, a linear range was obtained from 4.0 × 10–6 mol L–1 to 2.0 × 10–4 mol L–1 with a high correlation coefficient (r = 0.9997), detection limit of 5.0 × 10–7 mol L–1 (S/N = 3) and relative standard deviation of 2.4% for 1.0 × 10–5 mol L–1 PMS (n = 9). This was successfully applied to the determination of PMS in Virkon powder, tap water, and swimming pool water samples with satisfactory recoveries from 94.8% to 104.8%. In particular, the analytical frequency could be as fast as five samples per minute because there was no reaction step before analysis and the CL phenomenon was instantaneous. Therefore, this CL method has also been successfully applied to investigate the PMS decomposition profiles in carbon material (carbon nanotubes, carbon nanofibres, activated carbon and graphene oxide) catalysis systems, which followed pseudo‐first‐order kinetics with good correlation coefficients (r > 0.9305). Quenching experiments and electron spin resonance spectra verified that the CL phenomenon was due to the formation of singlet oxygen, and that hydroxyl and sulfate radicals might be important in the generation of singlet oxygen. Tb(III) is the luminescent emitter according to the characteristics emission bands of the fluorescence and CL spectra in different media.
A novel approach to the quantification of urinary aryl‐propionamide‐derived SARMs by UHPLC–MS/MS
Authors: Temerdashev Azamat , Dmitrieva Ekaterina , Azaryan Alice , Gashimova Elina
Published: November 2019

A simple and sensitive procedure for the quantification of two commonly abused aryl‐propionamide‐derived selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs), namely S‐4 (GTx‐007, andarine) and S‐22 (GTx‐024, MK‐2866, ostarine, enobosarm), has been described. Urine samples were prepared for analysis by means of a dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction using methanol and chloroform as dispersive and extracting solvents, respectively. Factors that might influence the extraction process as well as their optimum conditions were evaluated by Box–Benken and central composite designs. After extraction, the analytes were quantified by UHPLC–MS/MS. The proposed procedure was validated on human urine samples. As a result, for both SARMs the detection limits were observed at 0.05 ng/mL and calibration curves were linear in the concentration range of 0.25–50 ng/mL with the coefficient of determination of 0.998.
Are population‐based patient‐reported outcomes associated with overall survival in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer?
Authors: Dai Wei Fang , Beca Jaclyn , Guo Helen , Isaranawatchai Wanrudee , Schwartz Deborah , Naipaul Rohini , Arias Jessica , Qiao Yao , Gavura Scott , Redmond‐Misner Ruby , Ismail Zahra , Barbera Lisa , Chan Kelvin
Published: November 2019

Background

Advanced pancreatic cancer (APC) patients often have substantial symptom burden. In Ontario, patients routinely complete the Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS), which screens for nine symptoms (scale: 0‐10), in cancer clinics. We explored the association between baseline patient‐reported outcomes, via ESAS, and overall survival (OS).

Methods

Advanced pancreatic cancer patients with ESAS records prior to receiving publicly funded drugs from November 2008 to March 2016 were retrospectively identified from Cancer Care Ontario's administrative databases. We examined three composite ESAS scores: total symptom distress score (TSDS: 9 symptoms), physical symptom score (PHS: 6/9 symptoms), and psychological symptom score (PSS: 2/9 symptoms); Composite scores greater than defined thresholds (TSDS ≥36, PHS ≥24, PSS ≥8) were considered as high symptom burden. Crude OS was assessed using Kaplan‐Meier method. Hazard ratios (HRs) were assessed using multivariable Cox models. Analysis was repeated in a sub‐cohort with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) status and metastasis.

Results

We identified 2199 APC patients (mean age 64 years, 55% male) with ESAS records prior to receiving chemotherapy. Crude median survival was 4.5 and 7.3 months for high and low TSDS, respectively. High TSDS was associated with lower OS (HR = 1.47, 95% CI: 1.33, 1.63). In the sub‐cohort (n = 393) with ECOG status and metastasis, high TSDS was also associated with lower OS (HR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.73). Similar trends were observed for PHS and PSS.

Conclusions

Higher burden of patient‐reported outcome was associated with reduced OS among APC patients. The effect was prominent after adjusting for ECOG status.
How to save the wounded self: Power distance belief's moderation of self‐identity threat and status‐related consumption
Authors: Cui Hong‐jing , Fam Kim‐Shyan , Zhao Tai‐yang , Xu Wei , Han Cheng
Published: November 2019

There is ample evidence in the relevant literature to show that self‐identity threat affects consumers' behavior, psychological needs, purchasing behavior, and product choice. The present research takes self‐identity threat to another level with a focus on the moderating role of power distance belief (PDB) in the relation to self‐identity threat and status consumption. The research involves two studies. Study 1 shows that threatened participants with a high PDB prefer status goods to nonstatus goods. By contrast, the low‐PDB group is indifferent to the status of goods. Study 2 reexamines the results of Study 2 with different participants and goods and tests the moderated mediation of symbolic compensatory need in the status consumption of high‐PDB participants. The results and implications of our findings are presented in the Discussion section.
Complete heart block following TAVR: blocking the way forward?
Authors: Kornowski Ran , Schamroth Pravda Nili
Published: November 2019

Key Points

This study demonstrated an increasing rate in complete heart block (CHB) and permanent pacemaker (PPM) after trans‐catheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

The development of CHB was associated with increased in‐hospital mortality, prolonged length of stay and augmented hospitalization cost.

Pre‐existing RBBB was the strongest independent risk factor for subsequent development of CHB after TAVR.
Head and neck neuroendocrine tumors at a single institution over 15 years
Authors: Bacalao Maria , Beg Muhammad S. , Cavuoti Dominick , Zhu Hong , Sumer Baran , Myers Larry , Truelson John , Nedzi Lucien , Sher David , Hughes Randall , Khan Saad A.
Published: November 2019

Head and neck cancer is a diverse group of rare diseases such as neuroendocrine tumors which can be thought of as extrapulmonary small‐cell cancer. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can frequently cure this disease, possibly due to early detection.
Monitoring of Ammonia in Biogas
Authors: Wünscher Heike , Frank Thomas , Cyriax Andrea , Tobehn-Steinhäuser Ingo , Ortlepp Thomas , Kirner Thomas
Published: November 2019

Ammonia content is an important factor, which has to be considered when optimizing the processes in a biogas plant. A measurement system for a continuous monitoring of ammonia has been constructed, which can be placed in the gas room above the digester. The monitoring is based on the measurement of the electrical impedance. In this system, a condensate is generated on the surface of an interdigital electrode so that the whole stray field is covered by the condensate. For determining the ammonia content, impedance spectroscopy of these drops is performed. The ammonia of the biogas causes a decrease in the impedance in comparison to a pure aqueous condensate. A first evaluation of this measurement system using artificial slurries has been performed.
Bimetallic Sulfide Co9S8/N‐C@MoS2Dodecahedral Heterogeneous Nanocages for Boosted Li/K Storage
Authors: Han Yue , Li Wenlong , Zhou Kehan , Wu Xiaoyu , Wu Huayu , Wu Xue , Shi Qiaofang , Diao Guowang , Chen Ming
Published: November 2019

In this paper, bimetallic sulfide Co9S8/N−C@MoS2dodecahedral heterogeneous nanocages (DHNCs) are designed and synthesized via pyrolysis and sulfidation. The Co9S8/N−C@MoS2DHNCs with unique structure and composition display superior lithium storage performance (a reversible capacity of approximate 557 mA h g−1at 5 A g−1after 400 cycles) and potassium storage performance (a reversible capacity of about 100 mA h g−1at 1 A g−1after 100 cycles). The remarkable electrochemical properties are attributed to the synergistic effect of bimetallic sulfides and the special polyhedral hollow structure with the conductive N‐doped mesoporous carbon. This method could be used to develop new types of electrode materials with a heterogeneous hollow nanocages structure, which could enhance structural stability and mass transport kinetics for lithium‐ion batteries and potassium‐ion batteries.
Colored apparel and its potential influence on heterosexual attraction
Authors: Sullivan Chelsea , Kazlauciunas Algy , Guthrie James T.
Published: November 2019

The objective of this study is to determine if men would follow the “red effect” when choosing colors for women to wear on a date, and also to determine if the colors that men would wear when going on a date would be the same as the colors that females (their date) would wish them to wear. A set of psychophysical data was generated from this experiment, where participants were asked to rank a set of 10 colored samples based on preference for each question asked. There were three different sets of colored samples. The set of colored samples given to the participant depended on the question. A total of five questions were asked. Scaling analysis was done on the data to organize a set of items according to preferences providing values, an interval scale (Z values), that correspond to the relative perceptual differences among the stimuli. The Z values were graphed to show the general preference of colors for women to wear, and the preference of colors for men to wear. A Spearman's rank‐order correlation coefficient (SRCC) was calculated comparing each individual's rank order with the mean rank order for that specific question. An average Spearman's rank order was calculated for each question and each gender in order to determine the variability in answers. Scaling results indicate that men follow the “red effect,” but women preferred to wear other colors such as turquoise, blue, or yellow depending on the outfit. Males and females agreed that no matter the colored bottoms (denim or black), blue was the preferred color top for men to wear. SRCC results showed a lot of variability between individual answers and the mean answer indicating that participants' rankings did not necessarily agree with general color preferences presented in the scaling analysis. While scaling analysis might suggest certain color preferences such as men following the “red effect” and women preferring to wear blue, the poor correlation found using SRCC between the individual answers and the mean rank orders suggests that color preferences for each individual are inherently unique.
Minority oversampling based on the attraction‐repulsion Weber problem
Authors: Fiore Ugo
Published: November 2019

Learning on imbalanced datasets, where one class is underrepresented, is problematic and important at the same time. On the one hand, a limited number of positive examples restricts the generalization ability of classifiers. On the other hand, often, the class of interest is such exactly because it is rare. The Synthetic Minority Oversampling TEchnique (SMOTE) is a preprocessing method that creates new synthetic examples by interpolating between neighboring instances. In this work, an enhancement to SMOTE is proposed, which characterizes synthetic instances as solutions of attraction‐repulsion problems among the neighboring data points. Experimental evaluation shows an improvement in the positive predictive power of classification.
Base‐Promoted Formation of an Annelated Pyrrolo‐1,4‐oxazine Ensemble from 1H‐pyrrol‐2‐ylmethanol and Propargyl Chloride: A Theoretical and Experimental Study
Authors: Vitkovskaya Nadezhda M. , Bobkov Alexander S. , Kuznetsova Svetlana V. , Shcherbakova Victoriya S. , Ivanov Andrey V.
Published: November 2019

Invited for this month's cover is the group of Prof. Dr. Nadezhda M. Vitkovskaya at Irkutsk State University and the group of Dr. Andrey V. Ivanov at the A. E. Favorsky Irkutsk Institute of Chemistry, Russian Federation. The image shows that three different pyrrole derivatives can be obtained from the same starting reagents. The reaction is easily controlled by the ratio of the reagents, the amount of alkali, and the degree of dilution. The three strings of the balalaika (a Russian folk instrument) that represent these parameters can produce melodies from the same notes symbolizing the reagents. The sheets with quantum‐chemical calculations under the musical notebook symbolize that the experimental work is based on the theoretical investigations. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/cplu.201900407.
Reactor Technology Concepts for Flow Photochemistry
Authors: Rehm Thomas H.
Published: November 2019

Synthetic organic photochemistry has been intensively carried out in the 20th century and paved the way to the preparation of complex organic molecules, which were not yet accessible via thermal chemistry. Several photochemical synthesis routes have found their way into industrial applications for the production of everyday commodities, but photochemistry was still underutilized until recently as a synthesis method in organic chemistry. With the advent of novel photocatalytic and photophysical concepts for the use of high power visible light, the research field of synthetic organic photochemistry has evolved to become a vivid and highly recognized technique in the last years. Fortunately, continuous flow technology has also become an increasingly accepted tool and has proved to be an excellent key player for the advancement of photochemistry in academic and industrial research settings. This Review provides an overview on the recent developments of continuous flow photoreactors and their application to photochemical syntheses under mild and defined process conditions.
How phenotypic matching based on neutral mating cues enables speciation in locally adapted populations
Authors: Sibly Richard M. , Pagel Mark , Curnow Robert N. , Edwards Jonathan
Published: November 2019

Maynard Smith's (American Naturalist, 1966, 100, 637) suggestion that in some cases a prerequisite for speciation is the existence of local ecological adaptations has not received much attention to date. Here, we test the hypothesis using a model like that of Maynard Smith but differing in the way animals disperse between niches. In previous studies, males disperse randomly between niches but females stay put in their natal niche. As a first step toward generalizing the model, we here analyze the case that equal proportions of the two sexes disperse between niches before breeding. Supporting Maynard Smith's (1966) hypothesis, we find that once local adaptations are established, a neutral mating cue at an independent locus can rapidly enable speciation in populations with a suitable mechanism for phenotype matching. We find that stable ecological polymorphisms are relatively insensitive to the strength of selection, but depend crucially on the extent of dispersal between niches, with a threshold of ~5% if population sizes in two niches are equal. At higher levels of dispersal, ecological differentiation is lost. These results contrast with those of earlier studies and shed light on why parapatric speciation is limited by the extent of gene flow. Our testable model provides a candidate explanation for the rapid speciation rates, diversity of appearance and occurrence of “species flocks” observed among some African cichlids and neotropical birds and may also have implications for the occurrence of punctuational change on phylogenies.
Water‐borne and plasma corticosterone are not correlated in spotted salamanders
Authors: Millikin Alice R. , Woodley Sarah K. , Davis Drew R. , Moore Ignacio T. , Anderson James T.
Published: November 2019

Water‐borne hormone measurement is a noninvasive method suitable for amphibians of all sizes that are otherwise difficult to sample. For this method, containment‐water is assayed for hormones released by the animal. Originally developed in fish, the method has expanded to amphibians, but requires additional species‐specific validations. We wanted to determine physiological relevance of water‐borne corticosterone in spotted salamanders (Ambystoma maculatum) by comparing concentrations to those taken using established corticosterone sampling methods, such as plasma. Using a mixture of field and laboratory studies, we compared water‐borne corticosterone levels to other traditional methods of sampling corticosterone for spotted salamander larvae, metamorphs, and adults. Despite multiple attempts, and detecting differences between age groups, we found no correlations between water‐borne and plasma corticosterone levels in any age group. Water‐borne sampling measures a rate of release; whereas plasma is the concentration circulating in the blood. The unique units of measurement may inherently prevent correlations between the two. These two methods may also require different interpretations of the data and the physiological meaning. We also note caveats with the method, including how to account for differences in body size and life history stages. Collectively, our results illustrate the importance of careful validation of water‐borne hormone levels in each species in order to understand its physiological significance.
Home range size scales to habitat amount and increasing fragmentation in a mobile woodland specialist
Authors: Gardiner Riana , Proft Kirstin , Comte Sebastien , Jones Menna , Johnson Chris N.
Published: November 2019

Studies of impacts of fragmentation have focused heavily on measures of species presence or absence in fragments, or species richness in relation to fragmentation, but have often not considered the effects of fragmentation on ranging behavior of individual species. Effective management will benefit from knowledge of the effects of fragmentation on space use by species.

We investigated how a woodland specialist, the eastern bettong (Bettongia gaimardi), responded to fragmentation in an agricultural landscape, the Midlands region of Tasmania, Australia. We tested whether individual bettongs could adjust home range size to maintain access to essential habitat across three sites differing in degree of fragmentation.

We used GPS tracking to measure the home ranges of individual bettongs. Our models tested the effects of habitat aggregation and habitat amount measured at two radii comparable to a typical core range (250 m) and a typical home range (750 m), and habitat quality and sex on individual home range. We also tested the relationship between fragmentation on woodland used to determine whether individuals could compensate for fragmentation.

Depending on the spatial scale of fragmentation measured, bettongs altered their movement to meet their habitat requirements. Our top model suggested that at the core range scale, individuals had smaller ranges when habitat is more aggregated. The second model showed support for habitat amount at the core range, suggesting individuals can occupy larger areas when there is a higher amount of habitat, regardless of configuration.

Species that are relatively mobile may be able to compensate for the effects of habitat fragmentation by altering their movement. We highlight that any patch size is of value within a home range and management efforts should focus on maintaining sufficient habitat especially at the core range scale.
Empowering patients in chronic care to improve diabetes distress and glycaemic control: Protocol for a hybrid implementation‐effectiveness clinical trial
Authors: Woodard LeChauncy , Kamdar Nipa , Hundt Natalie , Gordon Howard S. , Hertz Brian , Amspoker Amber B. , Kiefer Lea , Mehta Praveen , Odom Edward , Rajan Suja , Stone Elizabeth , Jones Lindsey , Naik Aanand D.
Published: November 2019

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness of a collaborative goal‐setting intervention (Empowering Patients in Chronic Care [EPIC]) to improve glycaemic control and diabetesrelated distress, and implementation into routine care across multiple primary care clinics.

Design

Randomized controlled trial comparing the effectiveness of the EPIC intervention with enhanced usual care (EUC) at five clinic sites located in the greater Chicago and Houston areas. We will measure differences in haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and diabetes distress scale scores among study arms at post‐intervention and maintenance (6 months post‐intervention). We will evaluate implementation of the intervention across sites using the RE‐AIM framework. We will evaluate reach by comparing the per cent and characteristics of enrolled study participants among all potentially eligible participants in the given clinic population. Adoption is reflected by the characteristics of the involved providers and the number of intervention sessions conducted. Implementation of EPIC will be evaluated by number of sessions delivered, participants' evaluation of group sessions, and evaluation of quality of goal‐setting.

Patients

We randomized 280 participants with equal allocation to EPIC and enhanced usual care (EUC).

Results

At baseline, the groups were similar with the exception that EUC participants were more likely to have prior diabetes education. At baseline, participants were predominately older men who have poorly controlled diabetes (mean HbA1c = 76 mmol/mol [9.1%]) and moderate levels of diabetes distress (mean DDS = 2.43).

Conclusions

This hybrid effectiveness‐implementation protocol is designed to accelerate the translation of a patient‐centred diabetes care intervention from research to clinical practice.
Effects of fitness level and exercise intensity on pain and mood responses
Authors: Schmitt Angelika , Wallat Diana , Stangier Carolin , Martin Jason Anthony , Schlesinger‐Irsch Ulrike , Boecker Henning
Published: November 2019

Background

The phenomenon of exercise‐induced hypoalgesia and concomitant mood changes is well‐established. How exercise‐induced hypoalgesia and affective responses are shaped by the intensity of an acute exercise bout and individual fitness levels is as yet not well‐understood. This study investigates whether heat pain threshold (PTh), pain tolerance (PTol) and affective parameters are modulated by the intensity of an acute exercise bout and/or individuals’ fitness level. Stronger analgesic responses are hypothesized after high‐intensity exercise in physically fitter subjects, possibly in sync with concomitant mood changes.

Methods

Thirty‐three healthy men were recruited (sedentary: N = 17 or recreational: N = 14; mean age: 25.3 ± 4.4 years). After a fitness assessment on a cycle ergometer, subjects underwent three experimental conditions on separate days: high (20 min exercise 20% above lactate threshold), low (20 min exercise 20% below lactate threshold) and control (seated rest). Before and after each intervention Positive and Negative Affect Schedule, PTh and PTol (cold water emersion test) were assessed.

Results

Results indicate an increase of the Positive Affect Scale (high: 26.7 ± 9.0 vs. 32.9 ± 7.1, p < .001; low: 26.3 ± 7.2 vs. 32.0 ± 7.0, p < .001) and PTh (high: 45.1 ± 3.1°C vs. 46.0 ± 2.6°C, p = .003; low: 45.4 ± 2.7°C vs. 45.9 ± 2.6°C, p = .012) after both exercise conditions. In an exploratory analysis, PTol significantly increased only after the high exercise condition (51.2 ± 33.7 s vs. 72.4 ± 64.0 s, p = .045). Fitness level was positively correlated with the increase in PTol from pre to post high‐intensity exercise (r = .59, p (one‐tailed) = .002).

Conclusion

Exercise‐induced hypoalgesia depends on exercise intensity and appears to be influenced by individual fitness status, independent of mood responses.

Significance

Antinociceptive effects can be elicited by physical exercise and have been extensively investigated in the literature. However, the relation between exercise intensity, fitness status, and the degree of antinociception is not well‐understood. This randomized intervention provides novel evidence that antinociceptive effects indeed depend on exercise intensity, but also on general fitness status. Data extend the existing literature by highlighting aspects of exercise behaviour that promote antinociception. Effects do not simply mirror positive affective responses induced by exercise, hence, indicating partially distinct underlying mechanisms.
Twin‐engined diagnosis of discrete‐event systems
Authors: Bertoglio Nicola , Lamperti Gianfranco , Zanella Marina , Zhao Xiangfu
Published: November 2019

Diagnosis of discrete‐event systems (DESs) is computationally complex. This is why a variety of knowledge compilation techniques have been proposed, the most notable of them rely on a diagnoser. However, the construction of a diagnoser requires the generation of the whole system space, thereby making the approach impractical even for DESs of moderate size. To avoid total knowledge compilation while preserving efficiency, a twin‐engined diagnosis technique is proposed in this paper, which is inspired by the two operational modes of the human mind. If the symptom of the DES is part of the knowledge or experience of the diagnosis engine, then Engine 1 allows for efficient diagnosis. If, instead, the symptom is unknown, then Engine 2 comes into play, which is far less efficient than Engine 1. Still, the experience acquired by Engine 2 is then integrated into the symptom dictionary of the DES. This way, if the same diagnosis problem arises anew, then it will be solved by Engine 1 in linear time. The symptom dictionary can also be extended by specialized knowledge coming from scenarios, which are the most critical/probable behavioral patterns of the DES, which need to be diagnosed quickly.
Solvent temperature: An injection condition to bring multiple changes in the heavy oil exploitation process based on the cyclic solvent injection (CSI) recovery method
Authors: Zhang Kewei , Lu Xinqian , Zhou Xiang , Lu Hongfeng , Yang Lilong , Zeng Fanhua
Published: November 2019

Heavy oil is a major fossil fuel resource to fulfill global growing fuel consumption. Hot solvent injection is an effective heavy oil production method. Hot solvent application feasibility has been previously compared between cyclic solvent injection (CSI) method and vapor solvent extraction (VAPEX) method where CSI method is advantageous in terms of oil recovery. However, previous studies have focused on the solvent temperature sensitivity analysis only in the VAPEX method. In this study, the solvent temperature study has been conducted discussing the multiple effects of temperature on both foamy oil and production performance in CSI method. A conventional CSI experiment (20°C) and two hot solvent‐based CSI experiments (55 and 70°C) are conducted. The results demonstrate that, although the oil recovery of three tests is close to each other, oil rate and foamy oil strength will increase with the solvent injection temperature during the high oil rate phase. However, at a high injection temperature level, the maintenance of foamy oil is difficult due to high‐temperature effect on foamy oil stability. Medium‐high temperature level (55°C) is considered optimal temperature regarding the solvent extraction efficiency based on the gross utilization factor data.
Daylight integrated indoor VLC architecture: An energy‐efficient solution
Authors: Chatterjee Sourish , Sabui Deblina
Published: November 2019

In an indoor space, visible light communication (VLC) can form a promising enhancement of future illumination infrastructures with communication functionalities. This illumination infrastructure consumes 20% of the total energy consumption in the world. In this perspective, daylight integration with indoor VLC system is a promising area of research to conserve a considerable amount of energy. This paper deals with the design and practical realization of an energy‐efficient indoor VLC system through daylight integration. Dimming control mechanism using continuous current reduction topology is adopted to design the transmitter section of the VLC system. Thrust has been given to accomplish the required communication performance in terms of the bit error rate and illumination performance in terms of average horizontal illuminance and short‐term flicker severity. Both the communication and illumination performances have been evaluated under five different daylight conditions. At maximum ambient daylight condition, 37.29% of total energy has been saved, while the bit error rate lies in the order of 10−10. Simultaneously, satisfactory illumination performance in accordance with international guidelines has been achieved.
Effect of insect tea on D‐galactose‐induced oxidation in mice and its mechanisms
Authors: Zhu Kai , Zeng Xiaofei , Tan Fang , Li Wenfeng , Li Chong , Song Yaru , Zhao Xin
Published: November 2019

Insect tea is a traditional Chinese drink that contains abundant bioactive substances. In this study, the preventive effect of Insect tea on D‐galactose‐induced oxidation in mice was studied. The serum, liver, and spleen of mice were measured by biochemical and molecular biological methods, which showed that Insect tea could increase the biochemical indexes of the thymus, brain, heart, liver, spleen, and kidney in mice with induced oxidative damage. Insect tea can increase the levels of SOD (superoxide dismutase), GSH‐Px (glutathione peroxidase), and GSH (glutathione) and decrease the levels of MDA (malondialdehyde) in the serum, liver, and spleen of mice with oxidative damage. Pathological observation also confirmed that Insect tea could inhibit oxidative damage of the liver and spleen tissue caused by D‐galactose in mice. Further molecular biological experiments also showed that Insect tea could upregulate the mRNA and protein expression of Cu/Zn‐SOD (cuprozinc‐superoxide dismutase), Mn‐SOD (manganese superoxide dismutase), CAT (catalase), HO‐1 (heme oxygenase‐1), Nrf2 (nuclear factor‐erythroid 2 related factor 2), γ‐GCS (γ‐glutamylcysteine synthetase), and NQO1 (NAD(P)H dehydrogenase [quinone] 1) in the liver and spleen of oxidized mice. Insect tea has a good preventive effect on D‐galactose‐induced oxidation in mice, and the effect is better than vitamin C, an antioxidant. Insect tea is rich in isochlorogenic acid A, quercetin, rutin, hesperidin, neochlorogenic acid, and cryptochlorogenic acid. The combination of these bioactive substances has good antioxidant effects. Thus, Insect tea is a functional food with a good antioxidant effect that has value for future development and utilization.
Mussel‐Inspired Adhesive Polydopamine‐Functionalized Hyaluronic Acid Hydrogel with Potential Bacterial Inhibition
Authors: Yu Qi‐Hang , Zhang Chen‐Ming , Jiang Zhi‐Wei , Qin Si‐Yong , Zhang Ai‐Qing
Published: November 2019

Hyaluronic acid (HA)‐based hydrogels have been receiving increasing attention for wound management. However, pure HA hydrogels usually exhibit weak mechanical strength and poor anti‐infection. Herein, a hybrid HA‐based hydrogel (PDA‐HA) comprised of polydopamine (PDA) and thiolated hyaluronic acid (HA‐SH) is developed based on the Michael addition reaction. The introduction of PDA into HA hydrogel can decrease the critical gel concentration, improve the cell affinity and tissue adhesion, as well as endow the hydrogel with efficient free‐radical scavenging ability. Combining the merits of good biocompatibility and moist environment from HA hydrogel with excellent tissue adhesiveness and free radical scavenging capability from PDA, this cross‐linked PDA‐HA hybrid hydrogel exhibits great potential for creating antimicrobial wound medical dressings.
The impact of sensory impairment on cognitive performance, quality of life, depression, and loneliness in older adults
Authors: Harithasan Deepashini , Mukari Siti Zamratol‐Mai Sarah , Ishak Wan Syafira , Shahar Suzana , Yeong Wong Lai
Published: November 2019

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between sensory impairment (hearing loss only, vision loss only, and dual sensory impairment [DSI]) and depression, loneliness, quality of life, and cognitive performance in older adults.

Methods

A total of 229 community‐dwelling older adults aged 60 years or older participated in this study. Variables were measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS‐15), Revised University of California at Los Angeles Loneliness Scale (R‐UCLA), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS), and Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE).

Results

There was an independent association between DSI and quality of life (P < .05) and between DSI and hearing loss alone and cognitive function (P < .05) in older adults. In addition, higher education was associated with better quality of life and cognitive function.

Conclusions

DSI is a significant factor affecting the quality of life and cognitive function in older adults. Sociodemographic factors such as education play an important role in improving quality of life and cognitive function. Thus, increasing the awareness of this disability is important to ensure that older adults receive the necessary support services and rehabilitation to improve their level of independence.
Management of unilateral head and neck carcinoma of unknown primary: Retrospective analysis of the impact of postoperative radiotherapy target volumes
Authors: Podeur Fabien , Pommier Pascal , Crozes Carole , Monchet Elodie , Ton Van Jean , Roux Pierre‐Eric , Poupart Marc , Zrounba Philippe , Julieron Morbize , Deneuve Sophie
Published: November 2019

Background

We compared the outcome of postoperative unilateral cervical nodes radiotherapy (UL‐RT) vs bilateral cervical nodes plus total mucosal irradiation (COMP‐RT) in the management of head and neck carcinoma of unknown primary (HNCUP).

Methods

HNCUP, defined by the absence of primary despite a PET‐CT combined with a panendoscopy, were treated with curative intent by initial ipsilateral neck dissection. Sixty‐nine patients with unilateral HNCUP were included: 23 received UL‐RT while 46 received COMP‐RT. Carcinologic outcomes and long‐term quality of life (QOL) according to the QOL Questionnaire for Head and Neck 35 were assessed.

Results

Within 6.3 years of median follow‐up, there was no significant difference in primary tumor emergence rate (P = .68), cervical node recurrence rate (P = .34), or overall survival (P = .33) between UL‐RT and COMP‐RT groups. A trend toward QOL improvement was observed in the UL‐RT group.

Conclusion

UL‐RT seems to provide similar outcomes as COMP‐RT in unilateral HNCUP management.
Grid coding, spatial representation, and navigation: Should we assume an isomorphism?
Authors: Ekstrom Arne D. , Harootonian Sevan K. , Huffman Derek J.
Published: November 2019

Grid cells provide a compelling example of a link between cellular activity and an abstract and difficult to define concept like space. Accordingly, a representational perspective on grid coding argues that neural grid coding underlies a fundamentally spatial metric. Recently, some theoretical proposals have suggested extending such a framework to nonspatial cognition as well, such as category learning. Here, we provide a critique of the frequently employed assumption of an isomorphism between patterns of neural activity (e.g., grid cells), mental representation, and behavior (e.g., navigation). Specifically, we question the strict isomorphism between these three levels and suggest that human spatial navigation is perhaps best characterized by a wide variety of both metric and nonmetric strategies. We offer an alternative perspective on how grid coding might relate to human spatial navigation, arguing that grid coding is part of a much larger conglomeration of neural activity patterns that dynamically tune to accomplish specific behavioral outputs.
Contemporary Issues in Women's Health
Authors: Geary Michael , Chibwesha Carla , Stringer Elizabeth
Published: November 2019

• Should ursodeoxycholic acid be used for management of Obstetric Cholestasis? The PITCHES trial

• Hypertension in pregnancy: reducing maternal morbidity and mortality

• Training the Next Generation of Women’s Health Practitioners and Leaders in LMICs.
Sonographic appearance of a soft‐tissue gossypiboma in the forearm with pathologic correlation
Authors: Urigo Carlo , Moraux Antoine , Bianchi Stefano
Published: November 2019

We describe the sonographic, radiologic, and histopathologic appearances of a soft tissue gossypiboma in the forearm of an 81‐year‐old woman with a history of a radial fracture treated with an internal fixation surgery.
Normal reference values of three‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography‐derived right atrial volumes and volume‐based functional properties in healthy adults (Insights from the MAGYAR‐Healthy Study)
Authors: Nemes Attila , Kormányos Árpád , Domsik Péter , Kalapos Anita , Ambrus Nóra , Lengyel Csaba
Published: November 2019

Introduction

The right atrium (RA) roles include being a systolic reservoir, an early diastolic conduit, and a late‐diastolic booster pump. The present study aimed to assess normal reference values of three‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography (3DSTE)‐derived RA volumetric data and volume‐based functional properties in healthy adult subjects.

Methods

We included 260 healthy adult subjects in sinus rhythm with complete clinical and demographic dataset, but excluded 110 of them because of inferior image quality. The remaining population sample comprised 150 subjects (31.0 ± 11.6 years, 79 males). Complete two‐dimensional Doppler echocardiography and 3DSTE have been performed in all subjects.

Results

Systolic RA volumetric variables did not show changes over time, but after 50 years, a significant reduction could be demonstrated in RA stroke volume and emptying fraction. While early diastolic RA volume increased over time, RA stroke volume and emptying fraction decreased. While late‐diastolic RA volume increased over age decades, similar increase could be detected in RA stroke volume but a reduction occurred in older ages. Late‐diastolic RA emptying fraction showed an increasing (after the 40s)—decreasing (after the 50s) pattern.

Conclusions

Our study provides normal reference values of 3DSTE‐derived RA volumes and volume‐based functional properties and their age‐ and gender dependency in healthy adult subjects.
Extracellular Vesicles Released From Articular Chondrocytes Play a Major Role in Cell–Cell Communication
Authors: Liu Xiaoming , Shortt Claire , Zhang Fenglin , Bater Mariah Q. , Cowman Mary K. , Kirsch Thorsten
Published: November 2019

The purpose of this investigation was to determine the role of extracellular vesicles (EVs), released from articular chondrocytes in a physiological or pathological state, in cell–cell communication with other articular chondrocytes or chondrocyte precursor cells. The conditioned medium from interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β)‐treated human articular chondrocytes stimulated catabolic events and inhibited type II collagen expression in articular chondrocytes to a much greater degree than medium from IL‐1β‐treated chondrocytes after complete removal of EVs. The vehicle‐treated and IL‐1β‐treated human articular chondrocytes released EVs of similar size; however, the number of EVs released by IL‐1β‐treated chondrocytes was markedly higher than the number of EVs released from the vehicle‐treated cells. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate that similar to medium from IL‐1β‐treated chondrocytes containing EVs, EVs isolated from medium of IL‐1β‐treated chondrocytes stimulated catabolic events in articular chondrocytes, whereas EVs isolated from the medium of vehicle‐treated chondrocytes inhibited catabolic events and increased messenger RNA levels of aggrecan and type II collagen in IL‐1β‐treated chondrocytes. Furthermore, the medium containing EVs from vehicle‐treated articular chondrocytes or EVs isolated from this medium stimulated chondrogenesis of C3H10T1/2 cells, whereas medium containing EVs from IL‐1β‐treated chondrocytes or EVs isolated from this medium inhibited chondrogenesis. Our findings suggest that EVs released by articular chondrocytes play a key role in the communication between joint cells and ultimately in joint homeostasis, maintenance, pathology, and repair. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:731‐739, 2020
Raman spectra of a graphite–nontronite association in marbles from Oltrek Island (Lake Baikal, Russia)
Authors: Moroz T.N. , Edwards H.G.M. , Ponomarchuk V.A. , Pyryaev A.N. , Palchik N.A. , Goryainov S.V.
Published: November 2019

The graphite in marbles from Oltrek, an uninhabited island on Lake Baikal, has been investigated by micro‐Raman spectroscopy using visible and near‐ultraviolet wavelength excitation. All graphite samples exhibit a sharp first‐order Raman band at about 1,580 cm−1 with a width from 10 to 19 cm−1, and sometimes a D1 band with very low intensity, which is occasionally absent. Using Raman spectra data it was estimated that the temperature of graphite formation in the Oltrek marbles is about 530–650°C and possibly even higher. This evaluation is in good agreement with the temperatures (about 700°C) determined by a graphite isotope geothermometer of the graphite–calcite pair. Scanning electron microscopy images have recorded a сonical graphite morphology on the surface of plate crystals of graphite. Raman spectra of samples with cones about 200–400 nm sizes showed that the graphite was associated with nontronite in the specimens studied. Natural nontronite, a clay mineral of the smectite group, has not been well characterized using Raman spectroscopy. Here, the Raman spectra of the Oltrek nontronite were compared with the spectrum of nontronite from the weathered crust of the Salair Ridge, Russia. The formation of hexagonal–pyramidal structures on the surface of graphite with the participation of clay and bio‐organic matter in marble is discussed.
Synthesis of Alkoxyacene‐Based Random Copolymers and Binary Solvent Additive for High Efficiency Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Shin Hee Jeong , Sun Chung , Cho Hye Won , Lee Bo Ram , Kim Jin Young , Kwon Soon‐Ki , Kim Yun‐Hi , Choi Hyosung
Published: November 2019

The synthesis of three random copolymers—BD2FON‐OB30, BD2FON‐OB50, and BD2FON‐OB70—comprised of different molar ratios of alkoxyphenylene and alkoxynaphthalene is reported by adjusting the ratio of these units for optimized energy levels. When organic photovoltaics are fabricated using these polymers as the electron donor, introduction of the binary solvent additive dramatically enhances power conversion efficiency (PCE) up to 7%, compared to those of the devices without additive (≈2% of PCEmax) and with single additive (≈3% of PCEmax). (without additive: 1–2% and with single additive: 0–3%). These improvements result from minimized bimolecular recombination and balanced electron/hole mobility ratio by optimized bicontinuous D:A morphology in the active layer. Thus, the strategy shows the efficient enhancement of device efficiency by control the morphology using binary solvent additives in the bulk heterojunction film consisting of polymer and fullerene.
CSF or Serum Neurofilament Light Added to α‐Synuclein Panel Discriminates Parkinson's From Controls
Authors: Oosterveld Linda P. , Verberk Inge M.W. , Majbour Nour K. , El‐Agnaf Omar M. , Weinstein Henry C. , Berendse Henk W. , Teunissen Charlotte E. , van de Berg Wilma D.J.
Published: November 2019

Background

Neurofilament light chain is a marker of axonal damage and is of interest as a biofluid biomarker for PD. The objective of this study was to investigate whether CSF or serum neurofilament contributes to a combination of CSF biomarkers in defining the optimal biomarker panel for discriminating PD patients from healthy controls. In addition, we aimed to assess whether CSF and/or serum neurofilament levels are associated with clinical measures of disease severity.

Methods

We measured neurofilament light chain levels in CSF and/or serum of 139 PD patients and 52 age‐matched healthy controls. We used stepwise logistic regression analyses to test whether neurofilament contributes to a biomarker CSF panel including total, oligomeric, and phosphorylated α‐synuclein and Alzheimer's disease biomarkers. Measures of disease severity included disease duration, UPDRS‐III, Hoehn & Yahr stage, and MMSE.

Results

After correcting for age, CSF neurofilament levels were 42% higher in PD patients compared with controls (P < 0.01), whereas serum neurofilament levels were 37% higher (P = 0.08). Combining CSF neurofilament, phosphorylated‐/total α‐synuclein, and oligomeric‐/total α‐synuclein yielded the best‐fitting model for discriminating PD patients from controls (area under the curve 0.92). The discriminatory potential of serum neurofilament in the CSF biomarker panel was similar (area under the curve 0.90). Higher serum neurofilament was associated with a lower MMSE score. There were no other associations between CSF and/or serum neurofilament levels and clinical disease severity.

Conclusions

CSF neurofilament contributes to a panel of CSF α‐synuclein species in differentiating PD patients from healthy controls. Serum neurofilament may have added value to a biofluid biomarker panel for differentiating PD patients from controls. © 2019 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Federal suit: Fragmented care system harms Louisiana children and families
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: November 2019

Louisiana's state agency overseeing Medicaid services is being sued in federal court for a lack of intensive home‐ and community‐based mental health services for children, leaving parents of children in crisis with limited options that often trigger hospitalization far from home or juvenile justice involvement.
Recruitment, partnerships shape Montana integrated care work
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: November 2019

Noticing a lack of providers and community partners and the need for integrated service access for individuals with behavioral health needs, Montana health care leaders embarked on an initiative with the goal to improve chronic conditions and reduce health care spending.