bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A psychological intervention for caries active young adults, a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Hagman Jennie , Wide Ulla , Werner Helene , Hakeberg Magnus
Published: November 2021

Objective

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of a brief version of the behavioral intervention Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) on reducing gingivitis and plaque levels after 18 weeks.

Materials and methods

One hundred thirty‐five caries‐active young adults (18–25 years of age), recruited from two public dental clinics, participated in this parallel group randomized control trial (RCT). Participants in the intervention (n = 67) received two ACT sessions in combination with standard information on oral health, and participants allocated to the control group (n = 68) received standard information only. Gingivitis and plaque levels were recorded at baseline and at the 9‐ and 18‐week follow‐ups. The effect of the intervention versus standard information alone was analyzed by intention‐to‐treat and per protocol, applying the General Linear Model (GLM). Exploratory analyses for the intervention and control groups were conducted to evaluate the effect of gender and smoking habits on the gingivitis and plaque outcome. The CONSORT guidelines for RCT were followed.

Results

A significant decrease in gingivitis and plaque levels was observed over time, irrespective of treatment allocation. However, the ACT intervention was not significantly more effective at reducing gingivitis and plaque scores than standard information alone, even though the intervention participants had maintained their improvement to a greater extent. The exploratory analysis revealed that females improved their gingivitis and plaque levels significantly more than the males in the intervention group (p = 0.025 for gingivitis and p = 0.013 for plaque).

Conclusion

A brief ACT intervention was not proven to be more effective than standard information alone at improving oral health in a sample of young adults with poor oral health. However, ACT seems to have a positive effect on oral health among females. (TRN ISRCTN15009620).
Use of flow cytometry and cytology to differentiate breast implant‐associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma from reactive seromas in Brazilian patients
Authors: De Azambuja Ana Paula , Gevert Fabíola , Oliveira Raisa Merhy , Sebastião Ana Paula , Groth Anne Karoline
Published: November 2021

Introduction

The combination of cytology and multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC) may be useful in the diagnosis of breast implant‐associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA‐ALCL) and may be a practical way to differentiate lymphoma from benign and reactive seromas. Although the Brazilian breast implant market is the second largest in the world, with several manufacturers and the almost exclusive use of textured implants, the occurrence of BIA‐ALCL in Brazil is underreported.

Methods

One hundred seventeen sequential collections of suspicious periprosthetic fluid (PF) from 105 Brazilian patients registered between March/2018 and March/2021 were evaluated by routine cytomorphology and flow cytometry. The combination of CD30, HLA‐DR, and CD25 was used together with T and B lymphocyte and monocyte evaluation. The PF samples were divided into positive, acute reactive (neutrophilic exudate), or chronic reactive (macrophage or lymphocyte rich), and unavailable samples.

Results

Nine BIA‐ALCL positive cases (7.7%) were identified, with typical morphology and increased FSC/SSC dispersion, bright expression of CD30, CD25 and HLA‐DR, and absence or weakness of T‐cell antigens (CD3, CD8, CD4, CD5, and CD7). Reactive samples were acute (n = 18, 15.4%) and chronic (n = 70, 59.8%). Twenty samples were excluded. The mean age of BIA‐ALCL patients was 50 years (31–57 years) and 35 years in reactive patients (20–69 years).

Conclusion

Use of MFC with a comprehensive antibody panel consisting of CD30 in conjunction with CD25 and HLA‐DR can discriminate anaplastic cells of BIA‐ALCL from lymphoid or neutrophilic reactive cells and should be considered in the initial evaluation of seroma.
Help students find their places in the world
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: November 2021

My husband and I took our youngest granddaughter and a friend out to eat. The subject of my granddaughter's love of cooking came up. Her friend told her maybe she should be a chef someday. My granddaughter quickly replied, “Well, if I'm ever a chef it'll be my part‐time job!”
1,1′‐Ferrocenylene‐Bridged Bis(N‐Heterocyclic Olefin) Derivatives
Authors: Guthardt Robin , Mellin Johanna , Bruhn Clemens , Siemeling Ulrich
Published: November 2021

The 1,1′‐ferrocenylene (fc)‐bridged bis(N‐heterocyclic olefin) compounds (IMes=CH)2fc (1, IMes=1,3‐dimesitylimidazolin‐2‐ylidene) and (IPr=CH)2fc (2, IPr=1,3‐bis(2,6‐diisopropylphenyl)imidazolin‐2‐ylidene) were synthesised from (ICH2)2fc (3) and the respective N‐heterocyclic carbene IMes or IPr. Ligand substitution reactions of 1 and 2 with [BH3(THF)] afforded the complexes [1(BH3)2] and [2(BH3)2] as mixtures of the rac‐ and meso‐diastereomers. The new ferrocene derivatives 1–3 and the complexes meso‐[1(BH3)2], rac‐[1(BH3)2] and rac‐[2(BH3)2] were structurally characterised by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction. 1 and 2 represent a new class of ferrocene‐based, and hence redox‐active, bidentate ligands. The presence of three redox‐active moieties, viz. the ferrocene unit and the two NHO units, is reflected by three consecutive oxidations according to an electrochemical investigation exemplarily performed with 2 by cyclic voltammetry.
Photochemistry at Scale: Wireless Light Emitters Drive Sustainability in Process Research & Development
Authors: Burek Bastien O. , Duong Hong Thu , Hochradel Klaus , Sutor Alexander , Rupp Matthias , Heilmann Eike K. , Lovis Kai , Bloh Jonathan Z.
Published: November 2021

Carbon−carbon bond formation by dual Iridium‐Nickel photoredox catalysis has gained a lot of attention for late‐stage cross‐couplings of alkyls with aryls. However, the scalability of such reactions is greatly impeded by the poor light penetration depth into the strongly absorbing reaction media. Wireless internal illumination is a novel technique which circumvents the light penetration issue efficiently and therefore allows to scale photon‐driven reactions by conventional methods. Here we demonstrate that industrially relevant photoredox C−C couplings can be scaled seamlessly to different volumes, achieving qualitatively and quantitatively the same results at all scales. The use of conventional reactor types allows stirred, bubble column or fixed‐bed operation mode and is fully compatible with heterogeneous reaction mixtures. By minimizing reflection losses, we could also show a significant advantage in the reaction rate over an externally illuminated setup at the same light intensity.
Evaluation of the International League Against Epilepsy 1981, 1989, and 2017 classifications of seizure semiology and etiology in a population‐based cohort of children and adults with epilepsy
Authors: Egesa Isaac J. , Newton Charles R. J. C. , Kariuki Symon M.
Published: November 2021

Objective

The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) has revised the classification of epilepsies and seizures on several occasions since the original classification published in 1964. It is unclear if these changes have impacted the characterization of epilepsy, including the clinical validity of seizure semiology or epilepsy outcomes in resource‐poor areas. We aim to address this important knowledge gap.

Methods

We reviewed the clinical seizure semiology and etiological data of 483 persons with epilepsy identified from a population‐based survey in rural Kenya. The seizure semiology and etiological data were classified using the 1981 (for seizures) and 1989 (for epilepsy) ILAE criteria and then reclassified according to the ILAE‐2017 criteria. Logistic regression models adjusted for potential confounders were used to measure the associations between the seizure semiology and different clinical and electroencephalographic features of epilepsy.

Results

Focal (formerly localization‐related) and generalized epilepsies were lower in ILAE‐2017 (56% and 29%) than that of ILAE‐1989 (61% and 34%), P < .001 and P < .001. Combined focal and generalized epilepsy type in ILAE‐2017 accounted for 11% of epilepsies. Individual seizure types were statistically similar in both ILAE‐1981 and 2017. New classification categories in ILAE‐2017 such as unknown seizures and epilepsies were identified, and the proportions were similar to the unclassified category in ILAE‐1989, 6% and 5%, respectively. The most common causes of epilepsy were symptomatic (76%) in the ILAE‐1989 criteria, with infectious (45%) and structural (36%) causes were highest in the ILAE‐2017 criteria.

Significance

Our study confirms that the two ILAE classification schemes are broadly consistent, but the introduction of the combined onset seizure category in ILAE‐2017 significantly reduces the proportion of mutually exclusive focal and generalized seizures. The comprehensive classification of etiology categories in ILAE‐2017 will facilitate appropriate treatment and improve prognosis.
Seasonal morphodynamics of multiple intertidal bars (MITBs) on a meso‐ to macrotidal beach
Authors: Biausque Melanie , Guisado‐Pintado Emilia , Grottoli Edoardo , Jackson Derek W. T. , Cooper J. Andrew G.
Published: November 2021

Multiple intertidal bar (MITB) beach systems comprise a succession of subdued, shore‐parallel sandbars, developed under low‐energy conditions in meso‐ to macrotidal settings. Their relatively stable morphologies over long timescales are commonly attributed to a dynamic equilibrium, driven primarily by seasonal morphodynamics. The seasonal behaviour is, however, poorly understood. The relationship between temporal and spatial hydrodynamic forcing and morphological changes was investigated through monthly differential GPS surveys in Dundrum Bay (Northern Ireland) from April 2019 to March 2020, associated with variations in nearshore wave conditions, simulated using the SWAN wave model. During low‐energy summer conditions, southeast waves helped promote MITB stability and a slight increase in bar crest elevation, with the seaward‐most bar buffering and preserving the inner bar system through wave dissipation. In the winter, a progressive increase in wave energy, and a switch in wave direction (southwest to south), initiated the highest rates of cross‐shore bar migration and a lowering of bar crests. While the seaward‐most bar remained largely submerged, the shoreward‐most bar played a key role in protecting the upper‐beach and/or foredune. Winter conditions also forced a newly observed mesoscale longshore drift involving offshore sediment transport in the southwest and onshore transport in the northeast. Cross‐shore variability in MITB behaviour at seasonal timescales was, however, primarily driven by local hydrodynamic conditions, including variations in wave energy and direction. Conversely, alongshore variability was largely influenced by the complex nearshore bathymetry, headlands and an active ebb delta, all interacting with changing hydrodynamic forcing. These results challenge the seasonal equilibrium model for MITB systems and highlight longer‐term patterns of sediment movement.
The man in the middle—liquidity provision under central clearing in the credit default swap market: A regression discontinuity approach
Authors: Schoenemann Gregor Helmut
Published: November 2021

In this study, I analyze the effect of central clearing on credit default swap (CDS) market breadth, depth, and resiliency using a regression discontinuity design. I find evidence for a decrease in absolute bid–ask spreads and bid–ask spread resiliency and an increase in gross trading volume with the beginning of central clearing. However, we observe positive effects of central clearing on CDS market liquidity only for CDS contracts of high fundamental and liquidity risk. Further results indicate that lower trading frictions, that is, counterparty risk and regulatory capital charges, may explain the positive effects of central clearing on CDS market liquidity.
Stress, caffeine and psychosis‐like experiences—A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled experiment
Authors: Ágoston Csilla , Bernáth László , Rogers Peter J. , Demetrovics Zsolt
Published: November 2021

Objective

Psychosis‐like perceptual distortions can occur in the general population, and both stress and caffeine can enhance the proneness to psychosis‐like experiences, such as hallucinations. The current study aims to explore the effects of acute caffeine intake and acute stress on perceptual distortions in a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled experiment.

Methods

Regular caffeine consumers (n = 92) and non/low consumers (n = 89) were assigned to 100 mg caffeine/placebo and stress/no stress conditions. The White Christmas Paradigm (WCP) was used to measure hallucination‐like symptoms, and bias towards threat‐related words was used as an indicator of persecutory ideation. Participants reported their daily caffeine intake, and completed the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Launay‐Slade Hallucination Scale, the Persecutory Ideation Questionnaire and the Marlow‐Crowne Social Desirability Scale.

Results

Acute stress slightly increased hallucination‐like experiences, but not recall bias, while the small amount of caffeine had a time‐dependent effect on recall bias. Proneness to persecutory ideation was positively and social desirability was negatively correlated with recall bias towards threat‐related words, while proneness to hallucinations positively correlated with hallucination‐like experiences.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that psychosocial stress—in line with the diathesis–stress model—can lead to the enhancement of hallucination‐like experiences.
δ53Cr values of catchment runoff exhibit seasonality regardless of bedrock Cr concentrations: Role of periodically changing chromium export fluxes
Authors: Andronikov Alexandre V. , Novak Martin , Kram Pavel , Sebek Ondrej , Andronikova Irina E. , Stepanova Marketa , Vitkova Hyacinta , Antalova Elena , Komarek Arnost
Published: November 2021

One pre‐requisite for the construction of a global chromium isotope mass balance is detailed understanding of Cr isotope systematics in the critical zone where redox‐processes can modify the isotope signature of geogenic Cr input into the hydrosphere. A Cr isotope inventory of bedrock, soil, and runoff was performed in a Central European headwater catchment underlain by amphibolite, situated in the vicinity of two previously studied catchments underlain by different bedrock types (serpentinite and leucogranite). Fresh bedrock in the amphibolite catchment NAZ contained ~300 mg/kg Cr, serpentinite at PLB contained ~800 mg/kg Cr, and leucogranite at LYS contained ~2 mg/kg Cr. Monthly hydrochemical monitoring at all three sites revealed higher Cr(VI) export fluxes in winter than in summer. NAZ was characterized by a distinct seasonality in the δ53Cr values, with minima during winter/spring snowmelts (−0.35‰) and maxima during dry summers (0.40‰). Similar seasonality in δ53Cr values had been reported from PLB and LYS. Bedrock at all three sites had similar Cr isotope composition close to −0.10‰, a value indistinguishable from the δ53Cr value of bulk silicate Earth (BSE). Positive mean δ53Cr value of NAZ runoff indicated Cr‐isotope fractionations during weathering of geogenic Cr(III), combined with adsorption of the resulting Cr(VI) on soil particles during pedogenesis. However, the mass‐weighted mean δ53Cr of NAZ runoff was lower (−0.08‰), indistinguishable from the Cr isotope signature of bedrock. The same pattern of lower mass‐weighted mean δ53Cr values of runoff, compared to arithmetic mean δ53Cr values of runoff, were observed also at PLB and LYS. We suggest that elevated Cr runoff fluxes in winter remove some of the residual isotopically light Cr that accumulated in the soil during summer. Seasonality in runoff δ53Cr values appears to be a relatively widespread phenomenon, de‐coupled from Cr availability for chemical weathering.
Benefit of coupling heparin to crosslinked collagen I/III scaffolds for human dermal fibroblast subpopulations' tissue growth
Authors: Michopoulou Anna , Koliakou Eleni , Terzopoulou Zoi , Rousselle Patricia , Palamidi Artemis , Anestakis Doxakis , Konstantinidou Polyanthi , Roig‐Rosello Eva , Demiri Euterpi , Bikiaris Dimitris
Published: November 2021

Currently, there is a lack of models representing the skin dermal heterogeneity for relevant research and skin engineering applications. This is the first study reporting production of dermal equivalents reproducing features of papillary and reticular dermal compartments. Inspired from our current knowledge on the architecture and composition differences between the papillary and reticular dermis, we evaluated different collagen‐based porous materials to serve as scaffolds for the three‐dimensional expansion of freshly isolated papillary and/or reticular fibroblasts. The scaffolds, composed of either collagen I or collagen I and III mixtures, were prepared by lyophilization. Pore size and hydrolytic stability were controlled by crosslinking with 1‐ethyl‐3‐(3‐dimethyl aminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC) and N‐hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) or EDC/NHS with covalently bound heparin. The evaluation of the resultant “papillary” and “reticular” dermal equivalents was based on the analysis of characteristic features of each dermal compartment, such as cell density and deposition of newly synthetized extracellular matrix components in histological sections. Crosslinking supported cell growth during dermal tissue formation independent on the fibroblast subpopulation. The presence of collagen III seemed to have some positive but non‐specific effect only on the maintenance of the mechanical strength of the scaffolds during dermal formation. Histological analyses demonstrated a significant and specific effect of heparin on generating dermal equivalents reproducing the respective higher papillary than reticular cell densities and supporting distinct extracellular matrix components deposition (three to five times more carbohydrate material deposited by papillary fibroblasts in all scaffolds containing heparin, while higher collagen production was observed only in the presence of heparin).
Citral alleviates peptidoglycan‐induced inflammation and disruption of barrier functions in porcine intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Li Qiao , Yu Changning , Chen Yanhong , Liu Shangxi , Azevedo Paula , Gong Joshua , O Karmin , Yang Chengbo
Published: November 2021

Peptidoglycan (PGN) is a major polymer in bacterial cell walls and may constrain gut functionality and lower intestinal efficiencies in livestock. Citral has been reported to exhibit antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory biological activities, improving the gastrointestinal function of swine. However, the protective effect of citral against PGN‐elicited cellular responses and possible underlying mechanisms are unknown. In this study, the porcine jejunal epithelial cell line (IPEC‐J2) was challenged with PGN from Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) or Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis) to explore PGN‐induced inflammatory responses. Our data showed that the inflammatory response stimulated by PGN from harmful bacteria (S. aureus) was more potent than that from commensal bacteria (B. subtilis) in IPEC‐J2 cells. Based on the inflammatory model by PGN from S. aureus, it was demonstrated that PGN could significantly induce inflammatory cytokine production and influence nutrient absorption and barrier function in a dose‐dependent manner. However, the PGN‐mediated immune responses were remarkably suppressed by citral. In addition, citral significantly attenuated the effect of PGN on the intestine nutrient absorption and barrier function. The expression of TLR2 was strongly induced by PGN stimulation, which was suppressed by citral. All data nominated that citral downregulated PGN‐induced inflammation via TLR2‐mediated activation of the NF‐κB signaling pathway in IPEC‐J2 cells. Furthermore, the results also indicate that the PGN degradation through the inclusion of enzymes (e.g., muramidase) as well as the inclusion of citral for attenuating inflammation may improve pig gut health and functionality.
State, Commune and Gender Inequality Among Teachers in Rural and Small‐Town China, 1957–1979
Authors: Lawson Joseph
Published: November 2021

Studies of Maoist China have suggested that workplace gender inequality was greater in rural areas than cities. One possible explanation is that this was a result of the different institutional arrangements that governed rural and urban spaces. Another alternative is that different ideologies were associated with different types of work irrespective of institutional context. This article examines this through an analysis of teachers in Guangdong and Jiangsu. Some teachers were employed by the state in the same way that urban workers were, while others were employed by village‐level administrations within communes. Levels of gender inequality were not majorly different between the two groups of teachers. In both groups there was a high degree of pay equality in comparison to other types of work. Other types of gender inequalities existed in teaching, but their effects were mitigated by the unintended consequences of structural changes in education during the Cultural Revolution.
Screening cassava for time of maturity to respond to various market needs: Case study in African sub‐tropical zones
Authors: Nzola Mahungu , Ndonda Adrien , Bidiaka Sylvain , Gwanyebit Kehbila Anderson , Tata‐Hangy Willy , Tambu Evariste , Binzunga Mamy
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

Cassava evaluation trials are mostly harvested at 12 months after planting (MAP) irrespective of their actual maturity date, which includes the maximum accumulation of dry matter in tuberous roots. Depending on the market needs, some producers prefer to keep their crops up to 24 MAP and harvest sequentially when needed. Such varieties should mature early at 12 MAP and maintain or enhance their root dry matter rather than losing it. A modified breeding scheme has been suggested to evaluate selected lines from 12 to 24 MAP. In a harvest scheme such as this, many of the improved varieties lose their dry yield as starch is converted to sugar. Hence the breeding program in DR Congo started screening both early and late bulking varieties to identify those that can bulk early and keep their economically profitable dry root yield until late in the growing cycle. Six varieties and one local variety were subjected to several harvest dates ranging from 9 to 24 MAP.

RESULTS

In general, the best harvests occurred at 15 MAP. Variety Zizila continued to increase its dry root yield from 15 t ha−1 at 15 MAP to 20 t ha−1 at 24 MAP. However, the varieties Butamu and Disanka both with dry yields of 15 t ha−1 at 15 MAP reduced their dry root yields to 5 t ha−1 at 24 MAP, thus limiting themselves to early maturing varieties.

CONCLUSION

By assessing early generation populations in the clonal trials, study results revealed that breeders may lose around 15% of superior clones with good dry root yield from 12 to 24 MAP when limiting the selection at 12 MAP. © 2021 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
A capillary electrophoresis method for the determination of soluble monosaccharides in Ginkgo biloba leaves
Authors: Liu Shuo , Li Xin , Yang Xifeng , Zhou Linhui , Liang Xiangfeng , Qiu Ruchen , Fa Yun
Published: November 2021

A method for the simultaneous determination of six monosaccharides by pre‐column derivatization with 1‐phenyl‐3‐methyl‐5‐pyrazolone and capillary electrophoresis was developed in this work. The derivatization (i.e., reaction temperature, capillary electrophoresis duration, and extraction number) and separation (i.e., pH and buffer concentration) conditions for capillary electrophoresis were optimized. Results showed that the limits of detection under optimal conditions were in the range of 0.036–0.35 mg/L with a mean correlation coefficient >0.99. The recoveries were in the range of 87.3–108.49%, and the relative standard deviations of intra‐ and inter‐day variations were in the ranges of 2.2–3.8 and 3.2–5.0%, respectively. The method was successfully applied to the analysis of six free monosaccharides in three types of Ginkgo biloba leaves.
A Versatile Method for the End‐Functionalization of Polycarbenes
Authors: Zhou Li , Gao Run‐Tan , Zhang Xin‐Jie , He Kai , Xu Lei , Liu Na , Wu Zong‐Quan
Published: November 2021

End‐functionalization is an effective strategy for constructing functional materials. A method for chain‐end functionalization of helical polycarbenes is herein developed that relied on Sonogashira coupling reaction. In this work, a family of helical polycarbenes with controlled molecular mass (Mn) and low polydispersity (Mw/Mn) is readily prepared using Pd(II) and the Wei‐Phos ligand as initiator. The Pd(II) complex is confirmed to remain at the chain end of polycarbene. Subsequently, a series of terminal alkyne derivatives with interesting functional groups, including the F atom, aldehyde, or anthracene groups, are synthesized. They could be installed at the chain end of polycarbene through Sonogashira coupling reaction catalyzed by the Pd(II) complex at the chain end. Moreover, a couple of hybrid block copolymers are easily obtained by installing terminal alkynes modified by another type of polymer. The structures of the isolated polymers are confirmed by 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), 19F nuclear magnetic resonance (19F NMR), 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (31P NMR), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), respectively. The self‐assembly properties of the hybrid block copolymers are also investigated by atomic force spectroscopy analysis. By the hereby developed method, various functional groups can be introduced at the chain end of helical polycarbenes for constructing functional polymer materials, moreover, the transition metal residues at the end of polymer chains can be easily removed.
How do people aggregate value? An experiment with relative importance of criteria and relative goodness of alternatives as inputs
Authors: Ahonen‐Jonnarth Ulla , Andersson Hanna , Bökman Fredrik
Published: November 2021

The concept of importance of criteria is used as a central element in several decision making contexts, specifically in value aggregation, e.g. as an input to decision support tools. For example, in the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) decision makers are asked to estimate how much more important one criterion is than another. However, it is not clear how people understand aggregation models based on importance of criteria in decision making situations. The purpose of this descriptive study is to investigate if people find an aggregation model in simple value aggregation tasks which remind of the way AHP elicits the input. Further, the purpose is to investigate if people's tendency to find a model depends on their cognitive abilities. In an exploratory laboratory experiment, participants assessed which of two alternatives is the best, based on information about the importance of two criteria and how good the two alternatives are compared to each other with respect to these criteria. The results confirm that people are willing to use importance of criteria and goodness of alternatives as input in value aggregations and show three main models for aggregation. More participants with higher numeracy applied a clear model compared to those with lower numeracy. None of the identified models was one of AHP's models but one of them reminded of one of the ways input can be aggregated in the AHP. The three models identified in the experiment are based on lexicographic order, multiplication and a combination of multiplication and addition. How the results could be used in a prescriptive context is discussed in the paper.
Current Guidelines for Classifying and Diagnosing Cervical Dystonia: Empirical Evidence and Recommendations
Authors: Kilic‐Berkmen Gamze , Pirio Richardson Sarah , Perlmutter Joel S. , Hallett Mark , Klein Christine , Wagle‐Shukla Aparna , Malaty Irene A. , Reich Stephen G. , Berman Brian D. , Feuerstein Jeanne , Vidailhet Marie , Roze Emmanuel , Jankovic Joseph , Mahajan Abhimanyu , Espay Alberto J. , Barbano Richard L. , LeDoux Mark S. , Pantelyat Alexander , Frank Samuel , Stover Natividad , Berardelli Alfredo , Leegwater‐Kim Julie , Defazio Giovanni , Norris Scott A. , Jinnah Hyder A. ,   for the Dystonia Coalition Investigators
Published: November 2021

Background

The dystonias are phenotypically and etiologically heterogenous disorders. Many proposals and a consensus recommendation have been provided for the diagnosis and classification of the dystonias, but these recommendations serve only as general guidelines. Current diagnosis and classification may still depend on clinical judgment causing different opinions.

Objective

To delineate clinical features used by movement disorder specialists in the diagnosis and classification of isolated focal cervical dystonia, and to develop recommendations for a more consistent approach to classification according to anatomical regions involved.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data for subjects diagnosed with isolated dystonia were acquired from the Dystonia Coalition, an international, multicenter collaborative research network. Data from many movement disorder specialists were evaluated to determine how diagnoses of cervical dystonia related to their recorded examinations. Cases were included if they were given a diagnosis of focal cervical dystonia. Cases were also included if they had dystonia of the neck on exam, but were given an alternative diagnosis such as segmental dystonia.

Results

Among 2916 subjects with isolated dystonia, 1258 were diagnosed with focal cervical dystonia. Among these 1258 cases, 28.3% had dystonia outside of the neck region. Regions involved outside of the neck included the shoulder, larynx, and sometimes other regions. Analysis of the results pointed to several factors that may influence specialists' use of current diagnostic guidelines for making a diagnosis of isolated focal cervical dystonia including varied interpretations of involvement of nearby regions (shoulder, larynx, platysma), severity of dystonia across different regions, and occurrence of tremor in different regions.

Conclusions

Although focal cervical dystonia is the most common type of dystonia, a high percentage of subjects given this diagnosis had dystonia outside of the neck region. This observation points to the need for more specific guidelines for defining this common disorder. Such guidelines are proposed here.
Measuring small field profiles and output factors with a stemless plastic scintillator array
Authors: Hupman Michael A , Hill Ian G , Syme Alasdair
Published: November 2021

Purpose

To fabricate a 1D stemless plastic scintillation detector (SPSD) array using organic photodiodes and to use the detector to measure small field profiles and output factors.

Methods

An organic photodiode array was fabricated by spin coating a mixture of P3HT and PCBM organic semiconductors onto an ITO‐coated glass substrate and depositing aluminum top contacts. Four bulk scintillators of various dimensions were placed on top of the photodiode array. A fifth scintillator was used that had been segmented by laser etching and the septa filled with black paint. Each detector array was first calibrated using a reference field of 95 cm SSD, 5 cm depth, and 10 × 10 cm2 field size for a 6 MV photon beam. After calibration, profiles were measured for three small field sizes: 0.5 × 0.5 cm2, 1 × 1 cm2, and 2 × 2 cm2. Using the central pixel of the array, output factors were measured for field sizes of 0.5 × 0.5 cm2 to 25 × 25 cm2. Small field profiles were compared to film measurements and output factors compared to ion chamber measurements.

Results

The segmented scintillator measured profiles that were in good agreement with film for all three field sizes. Output factors agreed to within 1.2% of ion chamber over the field size range of 1 × 1 cm2 to 25 × 25 cm2. At 0.5 × 0.5 cm2 the segmented scintillator underestimated the output factor compared to film and a microDiamond detector. Bulk scintillators failed to produce a good agreement with film for measured profiles and deviations from ion chamber for output factors were apparent at field sizes below 5 × 5 cm2. In comparison to a bulk scintillator of dimensions 5 × 5 × 0.5 cm3 the etched scintillator saw a reduction of 5.1, 7.1, and 10.5 times the signal for field sizes of 0.5 × 0.5 cm2, 1 × 1 cm2, and 2 × 2 cm2, respectively. The reduction of signal comes from reduced cross‐talk that was present in all of the bulk scintillator geometries to various degrees.

Conclusion

A 1D SPSD array was demonstrated with various scintillator designs. The etched scintillator array demonstrated excellent small field profile measurements when compared to film and output factors (down to 1 × 1 cm2 field size) when compared to micro ion chamber and diamond detector measurements.
Diffusion MRI tractography of the locus coeruleus‐transentorhinal cortex connections using GO‐ESP
Authors: Solders Seraphina K. , Galinsky Vitaly L. , Clark Alexandra L. , Sorg Scott F. , Weigand Alexandra J. , Bondi Mark W. , Frank Lawrence R.
Published: November 2021

Purpose

The locus coeruleus (LC) is implicated as an early site of protein pathogenesis in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Tau pathology is hypothesized to propagate in a prion‐like manner along the LC‐transentorhinal cortex (TEC) white matter (WM) pathway, leading to atrophy of the entorhinal cortex and adjacent cortical regions in a progressive and stereotypical manner. However, WM damage along the LC‐TEC pathway may be an earlier observable change that can improve detection of preclinical AD.

Theory and Methods

Diffusion‐weighted MRI (dMRI) allows reconstruction of WM pathways in vivo, offering promising potential to examine this pathway and enhance our understanding of neural mechanisms underlying the preclinical phase of AD. However, standard dMRI analysis tools have generally been unable to reliably reconstruct this pathway. We apply a novel method, geometric‐optics based entropy spectrum pathways (GO‐ESP) and produce a new measure of connectivity: the equilibrium probability (EP).

Results

We demonstrated reliable reconstruction of LC‐TEC pathways in 50 cognitively normal older adults and showed a negative association between LC‐TEC EP and cerebrospinal fluid tau. Using Human Connectome Project data, we demonstrated replicability of the method across acquisition schemes and scanners. Finally, we compared our findings with the only other existing LC‐TEC tractography template, and replicated their pathway as well as investigated the source of these discrepant findings.

Conclusions

AD‐related tau pathology may be detectable within GO‐ESP‐identified LC‐TEC pathways. Furthermore, there may be multiple possible routes from LC to TEC, raising important questions for future research on the LC‐TEC connectome and its role in AD pathogenesis.
The effect of halloysite nanotube modification on wear behavior of carbon‐aramid fiber reinforced hybrid nanocomposites
Authors: Çetin Mehmet Emin , Baştosun Yusuf , Tatar Ahmet Caner , CETIN M. Huseyin , Demir Okan , Önal Gürol , Avcı Ahmet
Published: November 2021

In this study, the carbon‐aramid fiber reinforced hybrid composites are fabricated using a vacuum‐assisted hand lay‐up method using halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) modified epoxy matrix. Ball‐on‐disk wear tests are performed to analyze the tribological effect of neat and HNTs‐added specimens at 10, 15, and 20 N loads and 1 m/s sliding speed. Additionally, the wear rate and friction coefficient results are obtained to investigate the effect of the HNTs on the tribological behavior of hybrid composites. The wear mechanism of neat and nanocomposite specimens is specified by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, and the elemental analysis of worn surfaces is performed using EDX. Finally, the surface morphology is evaluated with 3D topography images. Additionally, thermal camera images are used to identify the thermal conductivity effect of HNTs on wear. The wear test results show that HNTs‐addition to composite decreased the friction coefficient by 9%, 10%, and 11% for 10 N, 15 N, and 20 N loadings, respectively. The wear rate is also decreased average by 75% for wear loadings. Surface form images acquired from 3D topography support the enhancement in the friction coefficient and wear rate values. Furthermore, thermal camera images show that thermal conductivity improvement on the contact region is attributed to well thermal properties of HNTs. Furthermore, the solid‐lubricant characteristic of HNTs as forming tribofilm is determined as the main reason for the enhanced tribological performance of nanocomposites. Finally, a detailed wear mechanism is proposed to explain the wear behavior of HNTs‐added carbon‐aramid hybrid composites based on SEM images.
Evaluation of suitable onium tetrafluoroborates for cationic polymerization of epoxides
Authors: Taschner Roland , Liska Robert , Knaack Patrick
Published: November 2021

Epoxides are frequently used in coatings due to their great adhesion to most materials, high resistance towards chemicals and well‐defined material properties. Onium salts such as iodonium and sulfonium salts are one of the most widespread classes of initiators used in light‐induced cationic polymerization of such epoxides. We successfully synthesized onium salts based on group 14 to 16 elements in the periodic table. They were then characterized using cyclic voltammetry and UV–visible spectroscopy before determining their reactivity in epoxy‐based resins. Using commercial bisphenol‐A‐based resins, thiopyrylium, bismuithonium and pyrylium salts show good reactivity and epoxy group conversions above 60% in simultaneous thermal analysis. Photochemically interesting new cationic initiators were identified to be oxonium, thiopyrylium and selenonium salts. Additionally, bismuthonium and stibonium salts show great potential towards sensitization with anthracene. © 2021 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Fourteen percent efficiency ultrathin silicon solar cells with improved infrared light management enabled by hole‐selective transition metal oxide full‐area rear passivating contacts
Authors: Nasser Hisham , Borra Mona Zolfaghari , Çiftpınar Emine Hande , Eldeeb Basil , Turan Raşit
Published: November 2021

The present study investigates the application of hole‐selective transition metal oxide (TMO) layers (MoOx, V2Ox, and WOx) with silver (Ag) as full‐area rear contact to 22.5 μm‐thick low‐quality Cz p‐type c‐Si solar cells. Thin films of metal oxides are deposited directly on p‐type c‐Si by thermal evaporation at room temperature. The large work function of these TMOs creates strong accumulation at the interface with p‐type c‐Si, which allows only holes to transport and simultaneously suppress the interfacial recombination current density (J0) and contact resistivity (ρc). The current generation and losses of 22.5 μm‐thick solar cells with different hole‐selective TMO/Ag at the rear are simulated. The presence of TMO/Ag at the rear is found to significantly reduce parasitic light absorption at longer wavelengths which becomes more pronounced for ultrathin wafers, providing significant advantages over conventional Al contact. The best device performance was attained by the MoOx/p‐type c‐Si solar cells, demonstrating a considerably high efficiency (η) of 14% with Voc of 555 mV, FF of 76.0%, and Jsc of 33.2 mA/cm2. Furthermore, the present work is the first to employ MoOx, V2Ox, and WOx as rear contact in ultrathin p‐type c‐Si solar cells.
A patient centred approach to measuring outcomes in psycho‐oncology services: The PHQ‐8 as a viable alternative to the PHQ‐9
Authors: Dancyger Caroline , Kelleher Kyle , Barrington Mark
Published: November 2021

Key points

Clinicians should consider using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ)‐8 as a preferable alternative to the PHQ‐9 for measuring outcomes in psycho‐oncology services

There is compelling research demonstrating equivalency between the PHQ‐8 and PHQ‐9 in assessing for depression and measuring symptom severity

Psycho‐oncology service users may object to the wording of the 9th item in the PHQ‐9 which intends to screen for suicidal ideation

The 9th item has been criticised as a poor tool for assessing suicidality

Data collected locally through routine practice is provided to support the argument made in the wider literature.
Descriptive proteomics of paired human vocal fold and buccal mucosa tissue
Authors: Grossmann Tanja , Darnhofer Barbara , Birner‐Gruenberger Ruth , Kirsch Andrijana , Gugatschka Markus
Published: November 2021

The vast majority of voice disorders is associated with changes of the unique, but delicate, human vocal fold mucosa. The ability to develop new effective treatment methods is significantly limited by the physical inaccessibility and the extremely rare occasions under which healthy tissue biopsies can be obtained. Therefore, the interest in laryngological research has shifted to human oral (buccal) mucosa, a similar and more easily available tissue. The harvesting process is less invasive and accompanied with faster healing and less scarring, compared to vocal fold mucosa. Here we report a descriptive proteomic comparison of paired human buccal and vocal fold mucosa by high‐resolution mass spectrometry (CID‐MS/MS). Our study identified a total of 1575 proteins detected within both tissues that are highly consistent in several crucial biological processes, cellular components, and molecular functions. Hence, our proteomic analysis will provide a fundamental resource for the laryngological research community.
Low‐frequency collective motion of DNA‐binding domain defines p53 function
Authors: Zhang Guangxu , Tang Chao , Pan Lexin , Lü Junhong
Published: November 2021

Most mutations in the DNA‐binding domain (DBD) of p53 inactivate or rescue the protein function interacting with the minor groove of DNA. However, how the conformation changes propagating from the mutation sites result in distinct molecular recognition is still not well understood. As the protein mobility is an intrinsic property encrypted in its primary structure, we examined if different structures of wild‐type and mutant p53 core domains display any unique patterns of intrinsic mobility. Normal mode calculation was employed to characterize the collective dynamics of DBD in p53 monomer and tetramer as well as their mutants. Intriguingly, the low‐frequency collective motions of DBD show similar patterns between the wild‐type protein and the rescued mutants. The analysis on atomic backbone fluctuations and low‐frequency vibration mode statistics does further support the correlation between the intrinsic collective motion of DBD and the p53 protein function. The mutations in the DBD influence the low‐frequency vibration of the p53 tetramer via the change of the collective motions among its four monomers. These findings thus provide new insights for understanding the physical mechanism of p53 protein structure–function relationship and help find the small molecule drug to modulate protein dynamic for disease therapy.
Loss prevention learnings from Beirut and similar ammonium nitrate explosions
Authors: Boeck Lorenz R. , Mahan Patrick W.
Published: November 2021

The recent catastrophic explosion in Beirut highlights how the safe handling and storage of solid ammonium nitrate (AN) is of paramount importance. This article discusses the explosion hazard of solid AN from a fundamental and historical perspective and focuses on the main mechanisms that contributed to past events, including fire, contamination, product degradation, and shock. Critical loss prevention recommendations are summarized, referencing the recent major update to FM Global Loss Prevention Data Sheet 7‐89 from January 2021. Last, a method to predict the explosive yield for explosions of solid AN in storage is presented.
Optimization and field evaluation of sex‐pheromone of potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)
Authors: Yan Junjie , Zhang Mengdi , Ali Abid , Du Xia , Mei Xiangdong , Gao Yulin
Published: November 2021

BACKGROUND

The potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella is a key pest of potato and tobacco in China. We compared the sex pheromone titers released by P. operculella female, and the electroantennogram (EAG) responses of male antennae to pheromone compounds under laboratory conditions. Then, the optimal sex pheromone ratio was screened in the field.

RESULTS

The P. operculella sex pheromone feeding on potato or tobacco was extracted by solvent‐extraction method. Main sex pheromone compounds including E4, Z7‐13: AC (PTM1) and E4, Z7, Z10‐13: AC (PTM2) were found in gland. The titer and relative ratio of P. operculella sex pheromone compounds secreted by female adult moths differ between host populations, while the relative EAG responses trend of P. operculella males to the pheromone components were the same when directly stimulated. In field trials, PTM1:PTM2 = 8:1–4:1 and PTM1:PTM2 = 1:4–1:7 was the most attractive ratio to P. operculella males in tobacco and potato fields, respectively. During 2019–2020, after 8 weeks of mass trapping for each year, the sex pheromone could reduce the population of P. operculella in the potato and tobacco fields.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, fixed property and quantity analyzing methods were adopted to compare sex pheromones from feeding on potato versus tobacco. EAG tests then were carried out on P. operculella males. Finally, we optimized the ratio of two sex pheromone compounds in potato and examined how this influenced field trapping. By further improving the parameters of sex pheromone application in the field, we demonstrate that deployment of sex pheromones can provide effective control of P. operculella. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Prediction of cytochromes P450 3A and 2C19 modulation by both inflammation and drug interactions using physiologically based pharmacokinetics
Authors: Lenoir Camille , Niederer Amine , Rollason Victoria , Desmeules Jules Alexandre , Daali Youssef , Samer Caroline Flora
Published: November 2021

Xenobiotics can interact with cytochromes P450 (CYPs), resulting in drug–drug interactions, but CYPs can also contribute to drug–disease interactions, especially in the case of inflammation, which downregulates CYP activities through pretranscriptional and posttranscriptional mechanisms. Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), a key proinflammatory cytokine, is mainly responsible for this effect. The aim of our study was to develop a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model to foresee the impact of elevated IL‐6 levels in combination with drug interactions with esomeprazole on CYP3A and CYP2C19. Data from a cohort of elective hip surgery patients whose CYP3A and CYP2C19 activities were measured before and after surgery were used to validate the accurate prediction of the developed models. Successive steps were to fit models for IL‐6, esomeprazole, and omeprazole and its metabolite from the literature and to validate them. The models for midazolam and its metabolite were obtained from the literature. When appropriate, a correction factor was applied to convert drug concentrations from whole blood to plasma. Mean ratios between simulated and observed areas under the curve for omeprazole/5‐hydroxy omeprazole, esomeprazole, and IL‐6 were 1.53, 1.06, and 0.69, respectively, indicating an accurate prediction of the developed models. The impact of IL‐6 and esomeprazole on the exposure to CYP3A and CYP2C19 probe substrates and respective metabolites were correctly predicted. Indeed, the ratio between predicted and observed mean concentrations were <2 for all observations (ranging from 0.51 to 1.7). The impact of IL‐6 and esomeprazole on CYP3A and CYP2C19 activities after a hip surgery were correctly predicted with the developed PBPK models.