bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Separation and determination of polyurethane amine catalysts in polyether polyols by using UHPLC–Q‐TOF‐MS on a reversed‐phase/cation‐exchange mixed‐mode column
Authors: Li Jiaxiao , Zhu Marcel
Published: November 2017

A simple, selective, and accurate ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry method was established and validated for the efficient separation and quantification of polyurethane amine catalysts in polyether polyols. Amine catalysts were primarily separated in polyether polyol‐based sample by solid‐phase extraction, and further baseline separated on a reversed‐phase/cation‐exchange mixed‐mode column (SiELC Primesep™ 200) using 0.1% trifluoroacetic acid/acetonitrile as a mobile phase in gradient elution mode at a flow rate of 0.2 mL/min. High‐resolution quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry analysis in electrospray ionization positive mode allowed the identification asN,N′‐bis[3‐(dimethylamino)propyl]urea,N‐[2‐(2‐dimethylaminoethoxy)ethyl]‐N‐methyl‐1,3‐propanediamine, andN,N,N′,N′‐tetramethyldipropylenetriamine. The method was validated and presented good linearity for all the analytes in blank matrices within the concentration range of 0.20–5.0 or 0.1–2.0 μg/mL with the correlation coefficients (R2) ranging from 0.986 to 0.997. Method recovery ranged within 81–105% at all three levels (80, 100, and 120% of the original amount) with relative standard deviations of 1.0–6.2%. The limits of detection were in the range of 0.007–0.051 μg/mL. Good precision was obtained with relative standard deviation below 3.2 and 0.72% for peak area and retention time of three amines, respectively.
Investigating the robustness and extraction performance of a matrix‐compatible solid‐phase microextraction coating in human urine and its application to assess 2–6‐ring polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons using GC–MS/MS
Authors: Naccarato Attilio , Gionfriddo Emanuela , Elliani Rosangela , Pawliszyn Janusz , Sindona Giovanni , Tagarelli Antonio
Published: November 2017

In this work, a polydimethylsiloxane/divinylbenzene fiber overcoated with a layer of polydimethylsiloxane was evaluated as analytical sampling tool for the first time in human urine. Urinary polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with 2–6 aromatic rings were considered as target compounds. The analyte uptake in kinetic and thermodynamic regime was evaluated and compared to the performances of polydimethylsiloxane/divinylbenzene and polydimethylsiloxane fibers. The assessment of the robustness and endurance of the overcoated fiber was carried out by direct immersion solid‐phase microextraction in undiluted urine performing up to 120 consecutive extractions. The overcoated fiber was then used to develop a fast and easy direct immersion solid‐phase microextraction with gas chromatography and triple quadrupole mass spectrometry protocol for the quantification of the target polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. The attained values of accuracy and precision were 75–114% and 2–19%, respectively, while the limits of quantification ranged between 0.05 and 1 ng/L. The proposed protocol was applied to the screening of urine samples collected from smoking and nonsmoking volunteers. The successful results obtained by using the overcoated fiber create not only new alternatives for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon exposure assessment but also new perspectives for the application of direct immersion solid‐phase microextraction to the analysis of bioclinical matrixes.
Isolation and purification of food‐grade C‐phycocyanin from Arthrospira platensis and its determination in confectionery by HPLC with diode array detection
Authors: Kissoudi Maria , Sarakatsianos Ioannis , Samanidou Victoria
Published: November 2017

C‐Phycocyanin is the major phycobiliprotein in Arthrospira platensis, also known as Spirulina, which is a cyanobacterium used as a dietary supplement because of its powerful effects on body and brain. C‐phycocyanin is a blue‐colored accessory photosynthetic pigment with multiple applications in food industry as natural dye or additive, and in pharmaceuticals. This study presents a simple protocol for the extraction and purification of food‐grade C‐phycocyanin from Arthrospira platensis. The cell lysis of cyanobacterium was performed by sonication combined with repeated freezing and thawing cycles. The purification of the crude extract of C‐phycocyanin was carried out by ammonium sulfate precipitation followed by ion exchange chromatography resulting in 2.5 purity. The purity of phycocyanobilin chromophore has been tested by UV‐visible spectrophotometry by monitoring the absorption after each stage of purification. A high‐performance liquid chromatography method has been developed and validated for the determination of food‐grade C‐phycocyanin. Intra‐ and interday precision values less than 5.6% and recovery greater than 91.2% indicated high precision and accuracy of the method for analysis of C‐phycocyanin. The method has been applied to commercial confectionery of blue color and to the purified protein obtained in the first stage of the study.
Tinnitus and its risk factors in african americans: The Jackson Heart Study
Authors: House Laura , Bishop Charles E. , Spankovich Christopher , Su Dan , Valle Karen , Schweinfurth John
Published: November 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

To describe the prevalence of reported tinnitus and tinnitus handicap in the all–African American Jackson Heart Study (JHS) cohort, with assessment of the relationship to cardiometabolic risk and depression.

Study Design

Prospective cohort study.

Methods

Audiologic data were obtained from a sample of 1,314 participants of the JHS. Reported tinnitus was assessed dichotomously (yes/no) by interview and with the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI). The statistical relationship of reported tinnitus and tinnitus handicap to various cardiometabolic risks (i.e., hypertension and waist circumference) and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CES‐D) was assessed with logistic and gamma regression procedures.

Results

Tinnitus was found to be a highly prevalent condition (29.5%), with an additionally high rate of individuals who report at least slight tinnitus handicap (35%). Hypertension (β = 1.344, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.015‐1.780, P = .039) and waist circumference (β = 1.009, 95% CI: 1.001‐1.018, P = .021) were found to have a statistically significant relationship with THI score, depending on the level of covariate adjustment. Depression, as measured by the CES‐D, was found to have a statistically significant relationship with both reported tinnitus (odds ratio [OR]: 1.051, 95% CI: 1.030‐1.072, P < .001) and THI score (β = 1.029, 95% CI: 1.013‐1.047, P = .001), which persisted for all levels of covariate adjustment in statistical models.

Conclusions

Tinnitus was found to be highly prevalent in the JHS, and certain measures of cardiometabolic risk are weakly related to both reported tinnitus and level of tinnitus handicap. A consistent relationship between depression and tinnitus/level of tinnitus handicap was observed.

Level of Evidence

2b. Laryngoscope, 128:1668–1675, 2018
Prevalence of adult unilateral hearing loss and hearing aid use in the United States
Authors: Golub Justin S. , Lin Frank R. , Lustig Lawrence R. , Lalwani Anil K.
Published: November 2017

Objective

The prevalence of unilateral hearing loss (UHL) in adults has not been well characterized. The objectives of this study are to determine the prevalence of UHL in U.S. adults and its treatment with hearing aids using a nationally representative study.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional national epidemiologic study (n = 6,242).

Methods

Subjects ≥ 18 years old with audiometric testing in the 2005 to 2006, 2009 to 2010, and 2011 to 2012 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Study were included. UHL was defined as normal hearing (≤25 decibels hearing level [dB HL] pure tone average [PTA]) in one ear and at least mild hearing loss (>25 dB HL PTA) in the other ear. Hearing aid usage was defined by at least 5 hours per week (2005–2006) or at least seldom (2009–2012) use. Sampling weights were utilized to ensure generalizability to the U.S. population.

Results

The overall prevalence of UHL in adult Americans was 7.2% (95% confidence interval 6.1%–8.6%), with 5.7% (4.8%–6.7%) having mild and 1.5% (0.1%–2.1%) with moderate‐or‐worse UHL; nearly one‐third of the latter reported trouble hearing. The prevalence of hearing aid usage in those with UHL was 2.0% (0.6%–6.7%). Of those with mild UHL, 1.4% (0.2%–8.0%) used hearing aids. Of those with moderate UHL, 4.2% (0.1%–22%) used hearing aids. Among those with UHL and also at least moderate subjective difficulty hearing, only 11% wore hearing aids.

Conclusion

UHL is common among U.S. adults. Hearing aid usage is very low, even when there is perceived handicap. Public health education is needed to increase awareness of and auditory rehabilitation for UHL.

Level of Evidence

2. Laryngoscope, 128:1681–1686, 2018
Correlations between cystic fibrosis genotype and sinus disease severity in chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Abuzeid Waleed M. , Song Changeun , Fastenberg Judd H. , Fang Christina H. , Ayoub Noel , Jerschow Elina , Mohabir Paul K. , Hwang Peter H.
Published: November 2017

Objective

Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients commonly develop chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). The impact of the most common cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mutation, F508del, on the severity of sinonasal disease remains inconclusive. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of CFTR genotype functional classification on sinonasal disease severity in patients with CRS.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of patients with CF who underwent endoscopic sinus surgery for chronic rhinosinusitis from 1998 to 2015. Patients were divided into high‐ or low‐risk genotypes based on standardized CFTR gene functional classification. The primary outcome was the 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) score. Secondary outcomes included endoscopic scores, extent of surgery performed, presence of polyposis, number of revision surgeries, and Lund‐MacKay computed tomography scores.

Results

Thirty‐eight patients harbored a high‐risk CFTR genotype, and 11 had a low‐risk genotype. On bivariate analysis, there was no association between CFTR genotype risk stratification and measures of preoperative disease severity or postoperative outcomes. There were no associations between genotype risk stratification and outcome variables on multivariate linear regression, adjusted for age and gender. There were significant improvements in several SNOT‐22 subdomains before and after endoscopic sinus surgery (P < 0.05), but the magnitude of improvement was not significantly different on the basis of CFTR genotype risk stratification.

Conclusion

High‐risk CFTR genotypes are not associated with worse sinonasal disease severity or postoperative symptom control than low‐risk CFTR genotypes after adjusting for confounding factors.

Level of Evidence

Level 4. Laryngoscope, 1752–1758, 2018
Cytologic findings of spindle epithelial tumor with thymus‐like elements
Authors: Baste Subia Maria N. , Digoy Paul , Hum Martina , Yu Zhongxin , Conrad Rachel
Published: November 2017

Spindle epithelial tumor with thymus‐like elements (SETTLE) is a rare and morphologically unique biphasic pediatric thyroid tumor of low malignant potential. There are less than 50 cases reported in the literature and few reported metastases. Despite the common usage of needle aspiration for thyroid and lymph node evaluation, cytologic descriptions of SETTLE are rare and tend to focus on a hypercellular biphasic appearance. We report aspirate findings of early cystic lymph node metastases in a 14‐year‐old girl, showing abundant matrix and low cellularity. We propose that the lack of recognition of this abundant matrix and cystic ultrasound appearance (as well as rarity of this tumor) may account for the low number of cytologic descriptions in the literature. Improved recognition may lead to increased usefulness of aspiration in the diagnosis and follow‐up of SETTLE. Laryngoscope, 128:E78–E82, 2018
Intranasal immunization with phosphorylcholine suppresses allergic rhinitis in mice
Authors: Miyashita Keiichi , Ohori Junichiro , Nagano Hiromi , Fukuyama Satoshi , Kurono Yuichi
Published: November 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Intranasal immunization with phosphorylcholine (PC) is known to reduce immunoglobulin (Ig)E production. However, its effects on the occurrence of allergic rhinitis (AR) are unknown. This study was performed to evaluate the effects of PC‐keyhole limpet hemocyanin (PC‐KLH) and to examine the effects on the occurrence of AR in a murine model of AR.

Study Design

In vivo study using an animal model.

Methods

Forty‐five female BALB/c mice were divided into three groups; those pretreated with intranasal administration of PC‐KLH followed by intraperitoneal sensitization and nasal challenge with ovalbumin (OVA) (group A), those untreated with PC‐KLH followed by sensitization and nasal challenge with OVA (group B), and those untreated with PC‐KLH or OVA as controls (group C). Nasal symptoms, allergic inflammation in the nasal mucosa, OVA specific IgE production, and cytokine profile were compared among those three groups. Dendritic cells (DCs) were isolated from splenic cells and PC‐KLH–stimulated interleukin (IL)‐12p40 production was measured.

Results

The mice pretreated with PC‐KLH showed lower allergic nasal symptoms and inflammation compared to untreated mice. The levels of total IgE and OVA‐specific IgE in serum, and IL‐4 production by nasal and splenic CD4+ T cells were significantly reduced by PC‐KLH pretreatment. Furthermore, IL‐12p40 production by DCs was induced by PC‐KLH in a dose‐dependent manner.

Conclusions

Intranasal administration of PC‐KLH suppressed allergic inflammation in nasal mucosa and antigen‐specific IgE production by downregulating Th2‐type immune response. Intranasal immunization with PC might be useful to prevent AR and upper airway bacterial infection.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 128:E234–E240, 2018
Dual‐Functional Dextran‐PEG Hydrogel as an Antimicrobial Biomedical Material
Authors: Wang Lei , Li Xin , Sun Tianyu , Tsou Yung‐Hao , Chen Hong , Xu Xiaoyang
Published: November 2017

Microbial infections continually present a major worldwide public healthcare threat, particularly in instances of impaired wound healing and biomedical implant fouling. The development of new materials with the desired antimicrobial property to avoid and treat wound infection is urgently needed in wound care management. This study reports a novel dual‐functional biodegradable dextran‐poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) hydrogel covalently conjugated with antibacterial Polymyxin B and Vancomycin (Vanco). The hydrogel is designed as a specialized wound dressing that eradicates existing bacteria and inhibits further bacteria growth, while, ameliorating the side effects of antibiotics and accelerating tissue repair and regeneration. The hydrogel exhibits potent antibacterial activities against both gram‐negative bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) and gram‐positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) with no observable toxicity to mouse fibroblast cell line NIH 3T3. These results demonstrate the immense potential of dextran‐PEG hydrogel as a wound dressing healthcare material in efficiently controlling bacteria growth in complex biological systems.
Corrosion behavior of Sn‐3.0Ag‐0.5Cu solder under different fire smoke atmospheres generated by burning polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene
Authors: Li Qian , Liu Xufei , Li Changhai , Chen Xiao , Lu Shouxiang
Published: November 2017

The corrosion characteristics of Sn‐3.0Ag‐0.5Cu solder under polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and polyethylene (PE) fire smoke atmospheres were investigated by weight loss method and surface characterization techniques. The corrosion kinetics results of 15‐day tests show that the mass loss of Sn‐3.0Ag‐0.5Cu solder in PE smoke is much lower than that in PVC smoke. The former shows no significant variation during the test. In contrast, the latter increases rapidly first and then presents a slow exponential increase. Microstructure analysis indicates that no obvious corrosion product appeared in PE smoke. Nevertheless, the corrosion products in PVC smoke grow larger first and then become smaller and denser. The possible growth process of corrosion products is that grain growth dominates the formation of the corrosion products at the initial stage and then the nucleation process is predominant. Furthermore, the corrosion mechanisms of Sn‐3.0Ag‐0.5Cu solder in the different fire smoke are also analyzed. Stannous oxide and stannic oxide are regarded as the corrosion products under both PE and PVC smoke atmospheres, while Sn21Cl16(OH)14O6 is only observed under PVC smoke atmosphere.
Tropical/non‐tropical marine environments impact on the behaviour of carbon steel and galvanised steel
Authors: Vera Rosa , de Rincón Oladis Troconis , Bagnara Margarita , Romero Nathalie , Araya Raquel , Ossandón Sebastián
Published: November 2017

The aim of this study is to assess the main factors that affect the behaviour of carbon steel and galvanised steel in tropical and non‐tropical marine environments, identifying those factors that directly affect the behaviour. The results from the INNOVA (Chile) and MICAT/PATINA (Venezuela) projects will be used. These projects evaluated metals exposed to different marine environments using procedures outlined in ISO 9223/9226. The results show that temperature has no significant effect on the behaviour of the materials at the study sites in question (Venezuela being 10 °C warmer than Chile), independent of the tropical nature of the exposure environment, while it is precipitation (>600 mm) and chloride and SO2 content in the environment that mainly influence the behaviour of the carbon steel and the galvanised steel. In addition, an artificial neural network was generated to evaluate the corrosion rate of the studied metals, using meteoro‐chemical variables. The neural network for the carbon and galvanised steel was more precise for the exposure sites located in Chile.
Facile Fabrication of Electrohydrodynamic Micro‐/Nanostructures with High Aspect Ratio of a Conducting Polymer for Large‐Scale Superhydrophilic/Superhydrophobic Surfaces
Authors: Lv Guowei , Liu Yuhang , Shao Jinyou , Tian Hongmiao , Yu Demei
Published: November 2017

This communication describes a straightforward, cost‐effective, and contactless lithography technique, electrohydrodynamic patterning, for fabricating the high‐aspect‐ratio micro‐/nanostructures of the conducting polymer (CP) films directly on a conductive substrate with high integrity and throughput. Meanwhile, the superhydrophilicity/superhydrophobicity of the final CP films can be obtained by modulating the ON/OFF‐state of the circuit of the assembly in the structure formation process. The final patterned CP films are hydrophilic/superhydrophilic when the circuit of the assembly is ON‐state in the structure formation process, while they are hydrophobic/superhydrophobic when the circuit of the assembly is OFF‐state. The high‐aspect‐ratio micro‐/nanostructures of the CP films with the superhydrophilic/superhydrophobic surface are important in both fundamental research and practical applications such as photovoltaics, sensors, supercapacitors, actuators, low friction surfaces, and water harvesting.
A Simple Strategy to Achieve Mussel‐Inspired Highly Effective Antibacterial Coating
Authors: Wu Zelin , Wang Jiming , Pei Danfeng , Li Liang , Mu Youbing , Wan Xiaobo
Published: November 2017

Although significant progress has been made in the preparation of mussel‐inspired antibacterial coatings, continual challenges still remain in pursuing more facile and simpler fabrication methods to construct more robust and effective coatings. In this study, quaternized catechol (QCat), which is synthesized via a simple quaternization reaction from two commercially available materials, 2‐chloro‐3′,4′‐dihydroxyacetophenone and N,N‐dimethyldodecylamine, is used as a reactive antimicrobial agent to fabricate mussel‐inspired antibacterial coatings. Specifically, QCat reacts with branched polyethyleneimine (PEI) in Tris‐HCl solution through a cross‐linking reaction between amino and catechol groups to form a homogeneous coating on various substrates via a simple co‐deposition process. The formed PEI/QCat coating exhibits highly effective antimicrobial activity against both Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli and good adhesion on glass, metal, and plastic substrates. Such a simple fabrication process makes it a potential candidate for industrial and medical applications.
Kinetics of Thermal Polymerization Can Be Studied during Continuous Cooling
Authors: Liavitskaya Tatsiana , Vyazovkin Sergey
Published: November 2017

It is demonstrated that differential scanning calorimetry can measure the kinetics of the thermally initiated polymerization during continuous cooling. The measurements are accomplished by switching from fast heating to much slower cooling. The study is exemplified by crosslinking polymerization (curing) of diglycidyl ether of bisphenol A epoxy and m‐phenylenediamine taken in stoichiometric and nonstoichiometric ratios and measured under heating and cooling conditions. An advanced isoconversional method reveals that the reaction in the nonstoichiometric system follows the kinetics of the single‐step type. Its activation energy is constant and the same for heating and cooling conditions. The stoichiometric system exhibits the multistep kinetics characterized by the dependencies of the activation energy on temperature that differ qualitatively for cooling and heating runs. The discovered differences emphasize the need for further systematic studies of the thermal polymerization during continuous cooling.
Tonsillectomy and risk of Parkinson's disease: A danish nationwide population‐based cohort study
Authors: Svensson Elisabeth , Henderson Victor W. , Szépligeti Szimonetta , Stokholm Morten Gersel , Klug Tejs Ehlers , Sørensen Henrik Toft , Borghammer Per
Published: November 2017

Background: We hypothesized that tonsillectomy modifies the risk of PD.

Objectives: To test the hypothesis in a nationwide population‐based cohort study.

Methods: We used Danish medical registries to construct a cohort of all patients in Denmark with an operation code of tonsillectomy 1980‐2010 (n = 195,169) and a matched age and sex general population comparison cohort (n = 975,845). Patients were followed until PD diagnosis, death, censoring, or end of follow‐up 30 November 2013. Using Cox regression, we computed hazard ratios for PD and corresponding 95% confidence intervals, adjusting for age and sex by study design, and potential confounders.

Results: We identified 100 and 568 patients diagnosed with PD among the tonsillectomy and general population comparison cohort, respectively, finding similar risks of PD (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.95 [95% confidence interval: 0.76‐1.19]; for > 20 years' follow‐up (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.96 [95% confidence interval: 0.64‐1.41]).

Conclusion: Tonsillectomy is not associated with risk of PD, especially early‐onset PD. © 2017 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Short‐range probabilistic forecasting of convective risks for aviation based on a lagged‐average‐forecast ensemble approach
Authors: Osinski Robert , Bouttier François
Published: November 2017

An hourly initialized numerical weather prediction model, AROME‐NWC, optimized for nowcasting purposes was used in this study to predict the probabilities of occurrence of convective aviation risks by generating an ensemble of time‐lagged forecasts. The objective is the prediction of echotop and reflectivity maximum based on simulated 3D radar reflectivity columns. Forecasts were postprocessed using an upscaling of the model output fields in order to account for uncertainties in horizontal positions. Simulated radar reflectivities were bias corrected using a quantile‐to‐quantile mapping resulting in an improvement of the ensemble performance. A lagged‐average‐forecast ensemble was then constructed in order to blend mesoscale deterministic and ensemble forecasts, using numerical weather prediction systems that will soon be available in real time. The probabilities of reflectivities predicted by the ensemble are shown to have objective value at thresholds that are meaningful for air traffic control. Possible applications for aviation management purposes are discussed.
Energy response corrections for profile measurements using a combination of different detector types
Authors: Wegener Sonja , Sauer Otto A.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Different detector properties will heavily affect the results of off‐axis measurements outside of radiation fields, where a different energy spectrum is encountered. While a diode detector would show a high spatial resolution, it contains high atomic number elements, which lead to perturbations and energy‐dependent response. An ionization chamber, on the other hand, has a much smaller energy dependence, but shows dose averaging over its larger active volume. We suggest a way to obtain spatial energy response corrections of a detector independent of its volume effect for profiles of arbitrary fields by using a combination of two detectors.

Methods

Measurements were performed at an Elekta Versa HD accelerator equipped with an Agility MLC. Dose profiles of fields between 10 × 4 cm² and 0.6 × 0.6 cm² were recorded several times, first with different small‐field detectors (unshielded diode 60012 and stereotactic field detector SFD, microDiamond, EDGE, and PinPoint 31006) and then with a larger volume ionization chamber Semiflex 31010 for different photon beam qualities of 6, 10, and 18 MV. Correction factors for the small‐field detectors were obtained from the readings of the respective detector and the ionization chamber using a convolution method. Selected profiles were also recorded on film to enable a comparison.

Results

After applying the correction factors to the profiles measured with different detectors, agreement between the detectors and with profiles measured on EBT3 film was improved considerably. Differences in the full width half maximum obtained with the detectors and the film typically decreased by a factor of two. Off‐axis correction factors outside of a 10 × 1 cm² field ranged from about 1.3 for the EDGE diode about 10 mm from the field edge to 0.7 for the PinPoint 31006 25 mm from the field edge. The microDiamond required corrections comparable in size to the Si‐diodes and even exceeded the values in the tail region of the field. The SFD was found to require the smallest correction. The corrections typically became larger for higher energies and for smaller field sizes.

Conclusions

With a combination of two detectors, experimentally derived correction factors can be obtained. Application of those factors leads to improved agreement between the measured profiles and those recorded on EBT3 film. The results also complement so far only Monte Carlo‐simulated values for the off‐axis response of different detectors.
Assessing body awareness and autonomic reactivity: Factor structure and psychometric properties of the Body Perception Questionnaire‐Short Form (BPQ‐SF)
Authors: Cabrera Ana , Kolacz Jacek , Pailhez Guillem , Bulbena‐Cabre Andrea , Bulbena Antonio , Porges Stephen W.
Published: November 2017

Body awareness and reactivity dysfunction are characteristic of a range of psychiatric disorders. Although the neural pathways communicating between the body and brain that contribute to these experiences involve the autonomic nervous system, few research tools for studying subjective bodily experiences have been informed by these neural circuits. This paper describes the factor structure, reliability, and convergent validity of the Body Awareness and Autonomic Reactivity subscales of the Body Perception Questionnaire‐Short Form (BPQ‐SF). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were applied to data from three samples collected via the internet in Spain and the US and a college population in the US (combined n = 1320). Body awareness was described by a single factor. Autonomic reactivity reflected unique factors for organs above and below the diaphragm. Subscales showed strong reliability; converged with validation measures; and differed by age, sex, medication use, and self‐reported psychiatric disorder. Post hoc analyses were used to create the 12‐item Body Awareness Very Short Form. Results are discussed in relation to the distinct functions of supra‐ and sub‐diaphragmatic autonomic pathways as proposed by the Polyvagal Theory and their potential dysfunction in psychiatric disorders.
DNP‐enhanced solid‐state NMR spectroscopy of active pharmaceutical ingredients
Authors: Zhao Li , Pinon Arthur C. , Emsley Lyndon , Rossini Aaron J.
Published: November 2017

Solid‐state NMR spectroscopy has become a valuable tool for the characterization of both pure and formulated active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). However, NMR generally suffers from poor sensitivity that often restricts NMR experiments to nuclei with favorable properties, concentrated samples, and acquisition of one‐dimensional (1D) NMR spectra. Here, we review how dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) can be applied to routinely enhance the sensitivity of solid‐state NMR experiments by one to two orders of magnitude for both pure and formulated APIs. Sample preparation protocols for relayed DNP experiments and experiments on directly doped APIs are detailed. Numerical spin diffusion models illustrate the dependence of relayed DNP enhancements on the relaxation properties and particle size of the solids and can be used for particle size determination when the other factors are known. We then describe the advanced solid‐state NMR experiments that have been enabled by DNP and how they provide unique insight into the molecular and macroscopic structure of APIs. For example, with large sensitivity gains provided by DNP, natural isotopic abundance, 13C–13C double‐quantum single‐quantum homonuclear correlation NMR spectra of pure APIs can be routinely acquired. DNP also enables solid‐state NMR experiments with unreceptive quadrupolar nuclei such as 2H, 14N, and 35Cl that are commonly found in APIs. Applications of DNP‐enhanced solid‐state NMR spectroscopy for the molecular level characterization of low API load formulations such as commercial tablets and amorphous solid dispersions are described. Future perspectives for DNP‐enhanced solid‐state NMR experiments on APIs are briefly discussed.
1‐Hexene Polymerization over Supported Titanium–Magnesium Catalyst: The Effect of Composition of the Catalytic System and Polymerization Conditions on Temperature Dependence of the Polymerization Rate
Authors: Echevskaya Ludmila , Zakharov Vladimir , Matsko Mikhail , Nikolaeva Marina
Published: November 2017

The effect of temperature on the rate of 1‐hexene polymerization over supported titanium–magnesium catalyst of composition TiCl4/D1/MgCl2 + AlR3/D2 (D1 is dibutyl phthalate, D2 is propyltrimethoxysilane, and AlR3 is an organoaluminum cocatalyst) is studied. The unusual data that the polymer rate decreases when temperature is increased from 30 to 70 °C are obtained. The 1‐hexene polymerization rate and the pattern of changes in polymerization rate with temperature depend on a combination of factors such as cocatalyst (AlEt3 or Al(i‐Bu)3) and presence/absence of hydrogen and an external donor in the reaction mixture. These factors differ in their effects on catalytic activity at different polymerization temperatures, so the temperature coefficient (Eeff) values calculated using the Arrhenius dependence of the polymerization rate on polymerization temperature vary greatly. The “normal” Arrhenius plot where polymerization rate increases with temperature is observed only for polymerization with the Al(i‐Bu)3 cocatalyst in the presence of hydrogen and without an external donor. Formation of high‐molecular‐weight polyhexene at low polymerization temperatures results in catalyst particle fragmentation, which may additionally contribute to the increase in polymerization rate as polymerization temperature is reduced.
Childbearing importance: A qualitative study of women with infertility in China
Authors: Yao Hong , Chan Celia Hoi Yan , Chan Cecilia Lai Wan
Published: November 2017

The primary goal of this study was to examine and describe the importance of childbearing as perceived by infertile women in the Chinese familial and social context. We adopted a qualitative descriptive method and conducted semi‐structured interviews with female patients diagnosed with infertility. Participants were recruited at a high‐volume fertility clinic in Tianjin, China. Fifteen women with a diagnosis of infertility were interviewed for 60–90 min. Data were analyzed by thematic analysis. Two themes supported the importance of childbearing for Chinese women with infertility: childbearing as natural law, and childbearing for relational harmony. Childbearing as natural law referred to intrinsic forces to seek a child, including (i) achieving motherhood and womanhood and (ii) experiencing a developmental transition with childbearing as a landmark. Relational harmony included three primary factors: (i) to maintain marital quality by preventing marital failure and rejuvenating an unsatisfactory marital relationship; (ii) to fulfill both authoritative and reciprocal filial piety; (iii) to build a sense of normalcy within family and social networks. In summary, infertility resulted in loss of motherhood, womanhood, and a smooth developmental transition. Moreover, it threatened relationship harmony in the marriage, family, and social life. These insights on the value of childbearing in the Chinese context can inform healthcare professionals in identify infertility‐related demands and developing relevant psychosocial services for people with infertility.
Energy Expenditure and Hormone Responses in Humans After Overeating High‐Fructose Corn Syrup Versus Whole‐Wheat Foods
Authors: Ibrahim Mostafa , Bonfiglio Susan , Schlögl Mathias , Vinales Karyne L. , Piaggi Paolo , Venti Colleen , Walter Mary , Krakoff Jonathan , Thearle Marie S.
Published: November 2017

Objective

This study sought to understand how the dietary source of carbohydrates, either high‐fructose corn syrup (HFCS) or complex carbohydrates, affects energy expenditure (EE) measures, appetitive sensations, and hormones during 24 hours of overfeeding.

Methods

Seventeen healthy participants with normal glucose regulation had 24‐hour EE measures and fasting blood and 24‐hour urine collection during four different 1‐day diets, including an energy‐balanced diet, fasting, and two 75% carbohydrate diets (5% fat) given at 200% of energy requirements with either HFCS or whole‐wheat foods as the carbohydrate source. In eight volunteers, hunger was assessed with visual analog scales the morning after the diets.

Results

Compared with energy balance, 24‐hour EE increased 12.8% ± 6.9% with carbohydrate overfeeding (P < 0.0001). No differences in 24‐hour EE or macronutrient utilization were observed between the two high‐carbohydrate diets; however, sleeping metabolic rate was higher after the HFCS diet (Δ = 35 ± 48 kcal [146 ± 200 kJ];P = 0.01). Insulin, ghrelin, and triglycerides increased the morning after both overfeeding diets. Urinary cortisol concentrations (82.8 ± 35.9 vs. 107.6 ± 46.9 nmol/24 h;P = 0.01) and morning‐after hunger scores (Δ = 2.4 ± 2.0 cm;P = 0.01) were higher with HFCS overfeeding.

Conclusions

The dietary carbohydrate source while overeating did not affect 24‐hour EE, but HFCS overconsumption may predispose individuals to further overeating due to increased glucocorticoid release and increased hunger the following morning.
Dynamic characterization of CNT‐reinforced hybrid polymer composite beam under elevated temperature—an experimental study
Authors: Jakkamputi Lakshmi Pathi , Rajamohan Vasudevan
Published: November 2017

In the present work, the dynamic characterization of carbon nano tubes (CNT)‐reinforced GFRP composite beam under elevated temperature has been investigated experimentally. GFRP composite beams without and with CNT reinforcement have been fabricated using vacuum‐assisted hand lay‐up technique. Natural frequencies and damping ratio of the composite beams for the first three modes are being measured under clamped‐free and clamped–clamped end conditions using experimental modal analysis. Further, the effect of variation of temperature of the GFRP composite beams without and with CNT reinforcement on natural frequencies and damping ratio have been studied. It was observed that the fundamental natural frequency of the CNT‐GFRP hybrid composite beam is approximately 17.43% and 18.46% higher than that of GFRP composite beams without CNT reinforcement under CF and CC boundary conditions, respectively. The fundamental natural frequency of CNT‐GFRP composite beam decreases by 3.47% and 11.19%, whereas the damping ratio at first mode increases by 22.64% and 35.41% under clamped‐free (CF) and CC boundary conditions, respectively when the temperature increased from 30°C to 60°C. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:464–470, 2019. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Ketamine Infusion for Adjunct Sedation in Mechanically Ventilated Adults
Authors: Groetzinger Lara M. , Rivosecchi Ryan M. , Bain William , Bahr Marshall , Chin Katherine , McVerry Bryan J. , Barbash Ian
Published: November 2017

Background

Many critically ill patients receive ketamine for adjunct sedation despite a paucity of evidence on its use, dosing, and monitoring in this setting.

Objective

To describe the dosing and safety considerations of ketamine for adjunct sedation in a population of mechanically ventilated critically ill patients targeting light sedation.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of mechanically ventilated patients receiving continuous ketamine infusion between January 2012 and April 2016. Data included dosing, effect of ketamine on other sedatives, total sedative use, Riker Sedation‐Agitation Scale (SAS) scores, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and hemodynamic variables.

Results

Ninety‐one patients were included in the analysis. Ketamine was infused at a median dosage of 0.41 mg/kg/hour (range 0.04–2.5 mg/kg/hr) for up to 14.7 days (median 2.8 days). Concomitant sedatives were reduced or discontinued, without the initiation of an additional sedative, in 57 patients (63%) within 24 hours of initiating ketamine. Propofol was most commonly discontinued (16 patients, 36%), followed by benzodiazepines (12 patients, 27%). There was an increase in the number of SAS scores documented in goal in the 24‐hour period after ketamine initiation compared with the immediate 24 hours before (61% vs 55%, p=0.001). Patients were less frequently agitated, defined as SAS >4, after the initiation of ketamine (27% vs 33%, p=0.005). Seven patients (7.7%) required discontinuation of ketamine infusion for an ADR. There were no significant changes in hemodynamic variables after the initiation of ketamine.

Conclusions

Continuous ketamine infusion for adjunct light sedation was well tolerated in a cohort of critically ill adults, with an acceptable safety profile. Prospective studies of ketamine infusion are warranted to further establish its efficacy as a sedative in this population.
Incidence of antiemetic‐induced akathisia in patients at a comprehensive cancer center
Authors: Rashid A. , Baile W. , Olubajo T. , De La Garza R.
Published: November 2017

Introduction

Akathisia is a common and severely disabling medication‐induced movement disorder. The condition is often missed, and patients suffer for a long time until diagnosed and managed properly. It is important to bring awareness to the clinicians for early detection and management of akathisia.

Methods

We reviewed a 4‐year record of patients seen at a comprehensive cancer center for anxiety and restlessness. Patients diagnosed with akathisia and the medications causing akathisia were identified. Management of akathisia is discussed.

Results

The results showed that 4.7% of patients developed akathisia while taking antiemetic agents to control chemotherapy‐induced nausea/vomiting. Early detection and management of akathisia resulted in quick recovery and reduced patients' suffering.

Conclusion

Akathisia is an unpleasant feeling of motor restlessness with anxiety. Clinicians need to have a full understanding to identify the subtle difference between functional anxiety and akathisia.
Parent knowledge of disease management in cystic fibrosis: Assessing behavioral treatment management
Authors: Nicolais Christina J. , Bernstein Ruth , Riekert Kristin A. , Quittner Alexandra L.
Published: November 2017

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life‐shortening, burdensome disease requiring complex knowledge to manage the disease. Significant gaps in knowledge have been documented for parents, which may lead to unintentionally poor adherence and insufficient transfer of treatment responsibility from parents to adolescents. There are no current, validated measures of parent knowledge for this population and there are no measures that assess the knowledge required for day‐to‐day behavioral management of CF. We assessed the psychometric properties of the parent version of the Knowledge of Disease Management‐Cystic Fibrosis measure (KDM‐CF‐P) using data from iCARE (I Change Adherence and Raise Expectations), a randomized control adherence intervention trial.

Methods

A total of 196 parents in the iCARE standard care/control arm completed 35 items assessing their knowledge of disease management at their 12‐month study visit, prior to beginning the intervention. Items were eliminated from the measure if they met the threshold for ceiling effects, were deemed clinically irrelevant, or did not correlate well with their intended scale. Item‐to‐total correlations, confirmatory factor analysis, discriminant function, reliability, and convergent validity were calculated.

Results

The KDM‐CF‐P (19 items) demonstrated internal consistency of KR20 = 0.60 on each scale and a two‐scale structure. Convergent validity for knowledge scores was found with maternal education, family income, and type of medical insurance. Parents correctly answered approximately 85% of items on the KDM‐CF‐P.

Conclusions

The KDM‐CF‐P psychometrics support a two‐scale measure with clinical utility. It is useful for assessing gaps in knowledge that can be remediated through individualized, tailored interventions.
Effects of probiotics on ghrelin and lungs in children with acute lung injury: A double‐blind randomized, controlled trial
Authors: Wang Yu , Gao Li , Yang Zhongwen , Chen Fengmin , Zhang Yuhua
Published: November 2017

Aim

To assess the effects of probiotics on serum ghrelin levels and protection for lungs in children with acute lung injury (ALI).

Methods

This study was performed as a double‐blind, randomized, and controlled trial in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). The eligible children with ALI were assigned to either probiotic treatment or an identical placebo for 10 days. Serum ghrelin, SP‐A(surfactant protein‐A), TNF‐α, and IL‐6 concentrations were assessed at baseline and at the end of trial. Meanwhile, pulmonary function test and echocardiography were examined, then VPEF (volume to peak tidal expiratory flow), TPEF/TE (the ratio of time taken to reach peak expiratory flow to total expiratory time), MAP (mean arterial pressure), and PAP (pulmonary artery pressure) were recorded.

Results

Eighty participants fulfilled the study requirements with 40 children for each group. The groups were comparable in baseline characteristics. Serum SP‐A, TNF‐α, and IL‐6 levels in the probiotic group were 212.6 ± 52.9 ng/mL, 401.9 ± 56.4 pg/mL, and 245.1 ± 55.1 pg/mL on day 10, respectively, significantly lower levels compared to the control group where the same parameters were 248.2 ± 57 ng/mL, 449.4 ± 60.1 pg/mL, and 308.3 ± 92.2 pg/mL (P < 0.01). However, ghrelin concentrations were elevated in the intervention group (P < 0.05). On measurement of pulmonary function, the probiotic group demonstrated a VPEF of 26.1 ± 4.2 mL and TPEF/TE of 29.1 ± 4.7%, which were higher than the control group (24.7 ± 4.3 mL and 26.9 ± 4.7%, respectively) (P < 0.05). MAP and PAP also improved in the probiotic group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, ghrelin, SP‐A, TNF‐α, IL‐6, and PAP were negatively correlated. Positive correlations were found between ghrelin, TPEF/TE, and MAP. There were no probiotic‐associated adverse events during the observation.

Conclusion

Probiotics administrated to children with ALI alleviates the inflammation of lungs, improves pulmonary function and circulation by ghrelin.
Malaria in India: The Need for New Targets for Diagnosis and Detection of Plasmodium vivax
Authors: Patankar Swati , Sharma Shobhona , Rathod Pradipsinh K. , Duraisingh Manoj T.
Published: November 2017

Plasmodium vivax is a protozoan parasite that is one of the causative agents of human malaria. Due to several occult features of its life cycle, P. vivax threatens to be a problem for the recent efforts toward elimination of malaria globally. With an emphasis on malaria elimination goals, the authors summarize the major gaps in P. vivax diagnosis and describe how proteomics technologies have begun to contribute toward the discovery of antigens that could be used for various technology platforms and applications. The authors suggest areas where, in the future, proteomics technologies could fill in gaps in P. vivax diagnosis that have proved difficult. The discovery of new parasite antigens, host responses, and immune signatures using proteomics technologies will be a key part of the global malaria elimination efforts.
Integrated assessment of safety distances for rescue work in chemical plant fires involving domino effects
Authors: Tsai Shih‐Fang , Huang An‐Chi , Shu Chi‐Min
Published: November 2017

This study employed the Suite for the Assessment of Flammable, Explosive, and Toxic Impacts to synergize the environmental data, risk frequency, and physical and chemical properties of chemical‐induced fires and explosions at accident sites and thereby establish an integrated assessment model. In addition, the suite was used to visualize fires and explosions resulting from domino effects caused by thermal radiation and blast overpressure in initial accidents at chemical plants.

The simulation results were successfully utilized to respond to a chemical plant fire, assist the fire command officer to determine the range of domino effects during rescue, and extinguish the ignition source. In addition, the model provided safety distances for rescue to enable the proper deployment of rescuers and vehicles and to prevent their exposure to deadly hazards.

The simulation results also provided the integrated safety distances including acceptable safety distances for rescuers with the appropriate protective equipment and the range of domino effect during the first accident and the second accident. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 37: 186–193, 2018