bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ontological insecurity II: Relationship to attachment, childhood trauma, and subclinical psychotic‐like experiences
Authors: Marlowe Nicholas I. , Nicholson Perry Kathryn , Lee Jacob
Published: December 2019

Objectives

To examine ontological insecurity as a predictor of positive psychotic‐like experiences (PLEs) relative to concepts of childhood trauma, parental bonding, and adult attachment style.

Methods

A nonclinical sample (N = 298) completed the Ontological Insecurity Scale (OIS‐34), a new measure of ontological insecurity, along with measures of the above concepts.

Results

The OIS‐34 accounted for a significantly greater proportion of unique variance in positive PLEs than any other theoretical variable. Anxious and avoidant adult attachment were also strongly associated with positive PLEs, but these relationships were mediated by the OIS‐34, ceasing to be significant once this latter variable entered the hierarchical regression equation.

Conclusions

The results are consistent with R. D. Laing's theory that ontological insecurity plays a significant role in psychosis. Moreover, the results suggest that this concept may mediate the established relationship between anxious/avoidant adult attachment and positive PLEs. Implications for psychological approaches to clinical psychosis are discussed.
The role of the red blood cell and platelet in the evolution of mammalian and avian endothermy
Authors: Soslau Gerald
Published: December 2019

This review presents evidence to support the hypothesis that the reduced O2 during the Permian/Triassic period was the impetus for the evolutionary selection of endothermic animals. The evolution of smaller red blood cells with greater surface areas along with increased: capillary density, capillary surface area, hematocrits, blood pressure, blood flow rates, and shear rates were critical for efficient gas exchange in endothermy. The evolution of the four‐chambered mammalian/avian heart allowed for low pulmonary and high systemic blood pressure. It is proposed that hypoxia‐induced angiogenesis led to increased vascularization in endothermic animals. The increased blood pressure, flow rates, and shear forces likely required changes in hemostatic mechanisms that were met in mammals by the evolution of anucleate platelets. The evolution of mammals and birds occurred in a parallel fashion with further genetic changes to anucleate RBCs/platelets occurring in mammals. Although it is possible that the evolution of endothermy in birds and mammals occurred as two independent events, it is more likely that a common ancestor developed genetic mutations that laid down the road map for parallel alterations of their cardiovascular system in response to environmental pressures. Model systems to support the proposed changes from ectotherm to endotherm were developed from published data. The evolutionary development of endothermy occurred over millions of years with a continuum of genetic alterations that involved skeletal, soft tissue, cardiovascular macrochanges along with numerous molecular alterations. Genetic signals and potential regulators for the evolutionary changes of endothermic blood cells from their bipotential stem cells are also proposed.
Proteostasis network alteration in lysosomal storage disorders: Insights from the mouse model of Krabbe disease
Authors: Landi Claudia , Luddi Alice , Bianchi Laura , Pannuzzo Giovanna , Pavone Valentina , Piomboni Paola , Bini Luca
Published: December 2019

In Krabbe disease, a mutation in GALC gene causes widespread demyelination determining cell death by apoptosis, mainly in oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells. Less is known on the molecular mechanisms induced by this deficiency. Here, we report an impairment in protein synthesis and degradation and in proteasomal clearance with a potential accumulation of the misfolded proteins and induction of the endoplasmic reticulum stress in the brain of 6‐day‐old twitcher mice (TM) (model of Krabbe disease). In particular, an imbalance of the immunoproteasome function was highlighted, useful for shaping adaptive immune response by neurological cells. Moreover, our data show an involvement of cytoskeleton remodeling in Krabbe pathogenesis, with a lamin meshwork disaggregation in twitcher oligodendrocytes in 6‐day‐old TM. This study provides interesting protein targets and mechanistic insight on the early onset of Krabbe disease that may be promising options to be tested in combination with currently available therapies to rescue Krabbe phenotype.
PPARα serves as a new receptor of aspirin for neuroprotection
Authors: Patel Dhruv , Roy Avik , Pahan Kalipada
Published: December 2019

Acetyl salicylic acid, commonly known as aspirin, has been being widely used as an anti‐inflammatory drug for almost 100 years. However, there was no receptor known for this popular drug. Recently, we have established that peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor alpha (PPARα) acts as a novel receptor of aspirin. Activation of PPARα by aspirin stimulated a series of downstream signaling pathways that could potentially ameliorate different Alzheimer's disease (AD)‐related pathologies. In this mini‐review, we have discussed how aspirin–PPARα interaction plays a pivotal role in the amelioration of AD pathology via the stimulation of neurotrophic factors, upregulation of plasticity‐associated genes, and removal of plaque burden in hippocampal neurons.
Ontogeny of inter‐alpha inhibitor protein (IAIP) expression in human brain
Authors: Kim Boram , De La Monte Suzanne , Hovanesian Virginia , Patra Aparna , Chen Xiaodi , Chen Ray H. , Miller Miles C. , Pinar Mehmet Halit , Lim Yow‐Pin , Stopa Edward G. , Stonestreet Barbara S.
Published: December 2019

Inter‐alpha inhibitor proteins (IAIPs) are naturally occurring immunomodulatory molecules found in most tissues. We have reported ontogenic changes in the expression of IAIPs in brain during development in sheep and abundant expression of IAIPs in fetal and neonatal rodent brain in a variety of cellular types and brain regions. Although a few studies identified bikunin, light chain of IAIPs, in adult human brain, the presence of the complete endogenous IAIP protein complex has not been reported in human brain. In this study, we examined the immunohistochemical expression of endogenous IAIPs in human cerebral cortex from early in development through the neonatal period and in adults using well‐preserved postmortem brains. We examined total, nuclear, and cytoplasmic staining of endogenous IAIPs and their expression in neurofilament light polypeptide–positive neurons and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)–positive astrocytes. IAIPs were ubiquitously detected for the first time in cerebral cortical cells at 24–26, 27–28, 29–36, and 37–40 weeks of gestation and in adults. Quantitative analyses revealed that IAIPs were predominately localized in the nucleus in all age groups, but cytoplasmic IAIP expression was more abundant in adult than in the younger ages. Immunoreactivity of IAIPs was expressed in neurons and astrocytes in all age groups. In addition, IAIP co‐localization with GFAP‐positive astrocytes was more abundant in adults than in the developing brain. We conclude that IAIPs exhibit ubiquitous expression, and co‐localize with neurons and astrocytes in the developing and adult human brain suggesting a potential role for IAIPs in development and endogenous neuroprotection.
Olfactory ensheathing cells from the nasal mucosa and olfactory bulb have distinct membrane properties
Authors: Smith Katie E. , Whitcroft Katherine , Law Stuart , Andrews Peter , Choi David , Jagger Daniel J.
Published: December 2019

Transplantation of olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) is a potential therapy for the regeneration of damaged neurons. While they maintain tissue homeostasis in the olfactory mucosa (OM) and olfactory bulb (OB), their regenerative properties also support the normal sense of smell by enabling continual turnover and axonal regrowth of olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs). However, the molecular physiology of OECs is not fully understood, especially that of OECs from the mucosa. Here, we carried out whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings from individual OECs cultured from the OM and OB of the adult rat, and from the human OM. A subset of OECs from the rat OM cultured 1–3 days in vitro had large weakly rectifying K+ currents, which were sensitive to Ba2+ and desipramine, blockers of Kir4‐family channels. Kir4.1 immunofluorescence was detectable in cultured OM cells colabeled for the OEC marker S100, and in S100‐labeled cells found adjacent to OSN axons in mucosal sections. OECs cultured from rat OB had distinct properties though, displaying strongly rectifying inward currents at hyperpolarized membrane potentials and strongly rectifying outward currents at depolarized potentials. Kir4.1 immunofluorescence was not evident in OECs adjacent to axons of OSNs in the OB. A subset of human OECs cultured from the OM of adults had membrane properties comparable to those of the rat OM that is dominated by Ba2+‐sensitive weak inwardly rectifying currents. The membrane properties of peripheral OECs are different to those of central OECs, suggesting they may play distinct roles during olfaction.
Interdecadal variation of frequencies of tropical cyclones, intense typhoons and their ratio over the western North Pacific
Authors: Liu Kin Sik , Chan Johnny C. L.
Published: December 2019

This study explores whether a higher frequency of tropical cyclone (TC) occurrence would lead to more intense typhoons (ITYs) over the western North Pacific (WNP) during 1975–2016. The proportion of ITYs shows an upward trend, with a low‐ (1975–2001) and a high‐proportion period (2002–2016). There is an interdecadal variation in TC and ITY frequencies within the period 1975–2001, with three subperiods (1975–1986, 1987–1997 and 1998–2001) identified. Both the annual frequencies of TCs and ITYs are below normal during 1975–1986 and 1998–2001 but above normal during 1987–1997. A comparison between the periods 1975–1986 and 2002–2016 (similar TC frequency but different ITY frequency) shows a significant increase in ITY occurrence to the north and west of the major development region during 2002–2016, which is mainly due to the longer duration of intensification or higher intensification rate so that the TCs can develop into ITYs before making landfall or moving to higher latitudes. Comparing the periods 1987–1997 and 2002–2016 (similar ITY frequency but different TC frequency) shows that the decrease in TC frequency during 2002–2016 is mainly related to a reduction in TC genesis in the southeastern part of the WNP. The west‐northwestward shift in genesis positions during 2002–2016 leads to an increasing frequency of ITYs towards Japan, the Korean Peninsula and the east coast of China. The stronger vertical wind shear and lower moist static energy (MSE) (weaker vertical wind shear and higher MSE) in the southeastern and northwestern parts of the WNP are related to the lower (higher) annual frequencies of both TCs and ITYs during 1975–1986 (1987–1997). The higher tropical cyclone heat potential in the recent decade indicates an expansion of the area favourable for intensification, which is another factor responsible for the higher proportion of ITYs during 2002–2016.
Distinct temperature changes between north and south sides of central–eastern Himalayas since 1970s
Authors: Yue Siyu , Yang Kun , Lu Hui , Chen Yingying , Sharma Shankar , Yang Xiaoxin , Shrestha Madan L.
Published: December 2019

Most regions of the world have experienced significant climate warming in recent decades, generally characterized by a faster rise in minimum temperature than in maximum temperature. This study shows that the temperature changes on the north side of the central and eastern Himalayas were similar to the global change values from 1972 to 2014, while on the south side of the Himalayas (SHM) the change in minimum temperature has been negligible over the past 40 years except for a significant warming trend during the monsoon season. SHM temperature changes are closely related to changes in cloud fraction and downward longwave radiation. Over the SHM, cloud fraction has decreased due to weaker uplift, leading to reduced downward longwave radiation at night. Therefore, the increase rate in minimum temperature diminished significantly. During the 40‐year period, changes in albedo on both sides of Himalayas were small, and thus played a negligible role. Overall, our results may contribute to a better understanding of temperature changes and their effects on environmental changes in the Himalayas, in the context of global warming.
Quantitative µMRI and PLM study of rabbit humeral and femoral head cartilage at sub‐10 µm resolutions
Authors: Batool Syeda , Mahar Rohit , Badar Farid , Tetmeyer Austin , Xia Yang
Published: December 2019

This study aimed to establish the baseline characteristics in humeral and femoral cartilage in rabbit, using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) relaxation times (T2, T1ρ, and T1) at 9.75 and 70–82 µm pixel resolutions, and quantitative polarized light microscopy (PLM) measures (retardation, angle) at 1.0 and 4.0 µm pixel resolutions. Five intact (i.e., unopened) shoulder joints (the scapula and humeral heads) and three femoral heads of the hip joints from five healthy rabbits were imaged in MRI at 70–82 µm resolution. Thirteen cartilage‐bone specimens were harvested from these joints and imaged in µMRI at 9.75 µm resolution. Subsequently, quantitative PLM study of these specimens enabled the examination of the fibril orientation and organization in both intact joints and individual specimens. Quantitative MRI relaxation data and PLM fibril structural data show distinct features in tissue properties at different depths of cartilage, different in individual histological zones. The thicknesses of the histological zones in µMRI and PLM were successfully obtained. This is the first correlated and quantitative MRI and PLM study of rabbit cartilage at sub‐10 µm resolutions, which benefits future investigation of osteoarthritis using the rabbit model. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:1052‐1062, 2020
Biological and Mechanical Predictors of Meniscus Function: Basic Science to Clinical Translation
Authors: Rodeo Scott A. , Monibi Farrah , Dehghani Bijan , Maher Suzanne
Published: December 2019

Progressive knee joint degeneration occurs following removal of a torn meniscus. However, there is significant variability in the rate of development of post‐meniscectomy osteoarthritis (OA). While there is no current consensus on the risk factors for development of knee OA in patients with meniscus tears, it is likely that both biological and biomechanical factors play critical roles. In this perspective paper, we review the mechanical and the biological predictors of the response of the knee to partial meniscectomy. We review the role of patient‐based studies, in vivo animal models, cadaveric models, bioreactor systems, and statistically augmented computational models for the study of meniscus function and post‐meniscectomy OA, providing insight into the important interplay between biomechanical and biologic factors. We then discuss the clinical translation of these concepts for “biologic augmentation” of meniscus healing and meniscus replacement. Ultimately, collaborative studies between engineers, biologists, and clinicians is the optimal way to improve our understanding of meniscus pathology and response to injury and/or disease, and to facilitate effective translation of laboratory findings to improved treatments for our patients. © 2019 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 38:937‐945, 2020
Time for a CHAT? A pilot study of the implementation of the Competency Handbook for Assistants and Technicians (CHAT)
Authors: Cheong Aaron K. W. , Foo Chen C. , Pham Henri Q. H. , Pham Thanh T. , Gibbs Matthew J. , Reeves Peter
Published: December 2019

Background

The Logan Hospital Pharmacy Department implemented a training framework (TF) for pharmacy technicians.

Aim

This study determined whether implementation of a TF for pharmacy technicians improved knowledge and consistency in pharmacy technician ward‐based services in a large secondary teaching hospital.

Methods

The study was conducted in two phases. The first phase involved defining competencies and developing a supporting TF. The Competency Handbook for Assistants and Technicians (CHAT) TF consists of observations, case discussions, feedback sessions and education modules. Questionnaires were developed based on the defined competencies to assess the knowledge component of the TF. The second phase of the study saw the implementation of the TF within the department. Practice was observed for each pharmacy technician prior to and following 6–12 months of training against the framework.

Results

Implementation of the TF demonstrated an improvement in both knowledge and consistency of practice. Of the 109 competencies developed, 90 were included for statistical analysis. All participants demonstrated a significant (p < 0.05) improvement in the ward‐based clinical support domain, the core component of advanced‐scope practice. Participants also demonstrated improved performance in their everyday duties. Although all participants trended towards overall improvement in the knowledge domain, this did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

Implementation of the CHAT TF delivered improved pharmacy technician knowledge and fostered greater consistency of practice. The results of this pilot study have created a platform for further research into structured development programs and career advancement pathways for pharmacy technicians within Australia.
Oncologic safety and bowel function after ultralow anterior resection with or without intersphincteric resection for low lying rectal cancer: Comparative cross sectional study
Authors: Sakr Ahmad , Yang Seung Yoon , Kang Jae Hyun , Cho Min Soo , Han Yoon Dae , Min Byung Soh , Thabet Waleed , Elbanna Hosam Ghazy , Morshed Mosaad , Kim Nam Kyu
Published: December 2019

Background

Despite acceptable oncologic outcomes of sphincter preserving surgeries for low rectal cancer, bowel dysfunction occurs. This study aimed to compare the oncologic and functional bowel outcomes between ultralow anterior resection (ULAR) and intersphincteric resection (ISR) for low rectal cancer.

Methods

One hundred sixty‐four patients who underwent ULAR with or without ISR for low rectal cancer between December 2010 and May 2018 were included. The Wexner and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) scores were used to evaluate the bowel function of patients. Overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) were compared between patients.

Results

The ISR group had higher incidence of major fecal incontinence than the ULAR group (75.9% vs 49.3%; P = .016). The median Wexner score decreased from 12 to 9 (P = .062) at 1‐year follow‐up. However, the frequency and urgency/soilage subscales of MSKCC score improved significantly in the ULAR group. ISR and follow‐up interval less than 1‐year significantly increased the major incontinence risk. The OS in the ULAR and ISR groups was 91.4% and 91.7%. Whereas the DFS in both groups was 79% and 79.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

ULAR and ISR are comparable in oncologic outcomes. Severe bowel dysfunctions and major incontinence were noted in ISR group. Careful selection of patients is mandatory.
Systemic inflammatory dynamics during chemoradiotherapy predict response, relapse, metastasis, and survival in esophageal carcinoma
Authors: Sherry Alexander D. , Newman Neil B. , Anderson Joshua L. , Osmundson Evan C.
Published: December 2019

Background and Objectives

Lymphopenia associated with chemoradiotherapy predicts prognosis in esophageal carcinoma. The purpose of our study was to evaluate alterations in hematologic measures of inflammation during chemoradiation.

Methods

We performed an observational study evaluating adults treated with chemoradiation in the neoadjuvant or definitive setting for stage II‐III esophageal carcinoma. Multivariable logistic regression evaluated predictors of pathologic response. Survival was analyzed by time‐varying multivariable Cox proportional hazards regressions.

Results

A total of 94 patients were included with median follow‐up of 1.6 years. Elevated neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was predictive of incomplete pathologic response to neoadjuvant chemoradiation (OR, 1.07; P = .0030) as well as shorter distant metastasis‐free survival (HR, 1.01; P = .0369) and reduced overall survival (HR, 1.01; P = .0448). An NLR > 5.55 in week two of chemoradiation predicted shorter overall survival (P = .0070). Upon adjusted analysis, NLR was independently associated with reduced probability of complete pathologic response (OR, 0.80; P = .0291), as well as poor histologic response to neoadjuvant chemoradiation (OR, 1.05; P = .0303), shorter disease‐free survival (HR, 1.02; P = .0077), and reduced overall survival (HR, 1.02; P = .0070).

Conclusions

Dynamic time‐dependent changes in NLR during chemoradiation predict response, relapse, metastasis, and survival in esophageal carcinoma. Prospective validation is warranted.
Coping Strategies and Psychological Symptoms Among Children on St. Thomas in the Aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria
Authors: Pittman Laura D. , Cutright Nicolette L. , McNeela Lauren , Awada Samantha , Pabis Jacqueline M. , Kochanova Kristina , Shelleby Elizabeth
Published: December 2019

Research has shown that experiencing a hurricane can lead to internalizing, externalizing, and posttraumatic stress (PTS) symptoms in children. However, the effects of experiencing two hurricanes within a short time frame have not been examined. Moreover, there is limited research examining how children's coping is linked to their psychological functioning and no research using the empirically supported conceptualization of coping that includes primary control coping (i.e., attempts to control the stressor) and secondary control coping (i.e., attempts to adapt to the stressor). This study examined the psychological functioning of 108 children and adolescents (69.7% Black, Non‐Hispanic; 56.5% female; M age = 11.59 years, SD = 2.43) in Grades 3–12 as measured 3 months after experiencing Hurricanes Irma and Maria on the island of St. Thomas. Participants completed electronic questionnaires about their demographic characteristics, hurricane exposure (i.e., perceived life‐threat, life‐threatening events, loss/disruption after hurricanes), coping strategies utilized, and their psychological functioning (i.e., PTS, internalizing, and externalizing symptoms). A principal component analysis of the coping items determined four coping factors: primary control, secondary control, disengagement, and negative coping. Linear regressions, including children's age and aspects of hurricane exposure, found primary control coping was positively associated with PTS symptoms, β = .18, whereas secondary control coping was negatively associated with PTS and externalizing symptoms, βs = −.17 and −.19, respectively. Negative coping, but not disengagement coping, was positively associated with all three outcomes, βs = .31–.42. These findings suggest positive ways children can cope after experiencing a hurricane, informing possible early intervention efforts.
Depth‐dependent detritus production in the sponge, Halisarca caerulea
Authors: Lesser Michael P. , Mueller Benjamin , Pankey M. Sabrina , Macartney Keir J. , Slattery Marc , de Goeij Jasper M.
Published: December 2019

Sponges are important ecological and functional components of coral reefs. Recently, a new hypothesis about the functional ecology of sponges in organic matter recycling pathways, the sponge‐loop hypothesis, in which dissolved and particulate organic matter is taken up by sponges and shunted to higher trophic levels as detritus, has been proposed and demonstrated for shallow (< 30 m) cryptic species. However, support for this hypothesis at mesophotic depths (∼ 30–150 m) is lacking. Here, we examined detritus production, a prerequisite of the sponge loop pathway, in a reciprocal transplant experiment, using Halisarca caerulea from water depths of 10 and 50 m. Detritus production was significantly lower in mesophotic sponges compared to shallow samples of H. caerulea. Additionally, detritus production rates in transplanted sponges moved in the direction of rates observed for resident conspecifics. The microbiome of these sponge populations was also significantly different between shallow and mesophotic depths, and the microbial communities of the transplanted sponges also shifted in the direction of their new depth in 10 d largely driven by changes in Oxyphotobacteria, Acidimicrobiia, Nitrososphaeria, Nitrospira, Deltaproteobacteria, and Dadabacteriia. This occurred in an environment where the availability of both dissolved and particulate trophic resources changed significantly across the shallow to mesophotic depth gradient where these sponge populations were found. These results suggest that changes in sponge detritus production are primarily driven by differential quality and quantity of trophic resources, as well as their utilization by the sponge host, and its microbiome, along the shallow to mesophotic depth gradient.
What do Airbnb hosts reveal by posting photographs online and how does it affect their perceived trustworthiness?
Authors: Ert Eyal , Fleischer Aliza
Published: December 2019

The use of sellers' personal photographs online is ubiquitous in sharing economy platforms such as Airbnb. This paper addresses two questions. First, what type of personal photos do hosts choose to post on Airbnb? Second, which of the characteristics of their photos affects their perceived trustworthiness? We answer these questions by building a structural equation model of the relation between the characteristics of the photos and the perceived trustworthiness of the hosts. The antecedents of trust in this model were defined based on insights from psychology regarding first impressions. We found that the hosts' visual characteristics (e.g., gender) as revealed in their online photographs affect their perceived trustworthiness both directly and indirectly via attractiveness. We also found that image characteristics, which are not related directly to the traits of the host in the picture (e.g., photograph quality), play a significant role in trust inference. Interestingly, the hosts' choices of their personal photos suggest that they may not be aware of these effects.
When the frugal become wasteful: An examination into how impression management can initiate the end‐stages of consumption for frugal consumers
Authors: Philp Matthew , Nepomuceno Marcelo Vinhal
Published: December 2019

Premature disposal of functional products is a global problem adding to waste and feeding a consumer culture. Contrary to this, frugal consumers take care and extend the life of their products, elongating the usage and value obtained from their possessions. Despite this, little is known about frugal consumers and the factors that eventually initiate their actions towards the end‐stages of consumption (e.g., declined usage). The present research explores one such psychological factor that may dictate frugal consumers’ willingness to discontinue usage of their products; impression management. Three studies demonstrate that when the marketplace's opinion of an owned product is negative (e.g., inferior value), then the well‐accepted frugality‐usage intentions relationship diminishes. This effect is due in part to the undesirable image that owning such a product portrays, that of a consumer who makes poor choices. By examining what can initiate the end‐stages of consumption for frugal consumers, this study broadens our understanding of anticonsumption lifestyles postpurchase, exploring factors beyond functionality, and obsolescence that influence decisions to continue or discontinue using products consumers already own.
Don't call us, we'll call you: Considering cognitive and physical effort in designing effective response systems to manage extended in‐process wait
Authors: Danziger Shai , Garbarino Ellen , Moran Simone
Published: December 2019

People must often wait for days or weeks to receive test results, price quotes, products, etc. Service providers may manage user experience during such in‐process waits using notification systems that inform users when a response is available or inquiry systems that require users to inquire about response availability, thereby imposing prospective memory requirements on users. Based on the prospective memory and wait time literature, we make predictions regarding how response system (notification vs. inquiry) moderates the effects of waits that are shorter or longer than the provider promised on user evaluation of the wait. We find that users of a notification system evaluate a wait more positively and are less sensitive to deviations of actual from promised wait time than are users of an inquiry system. This advantage was more pronounced for a wait that was longer (vs. shorter) than promised. These effects of system and expectation on evaluation were fully mediated by their impact on the cognitive and physical effort of navigating the system. Finally, a week after having experienced a wait, users of an inquiry system who had waited longer (vs. shorter) than promised cooperated less on a follow‐up task, highlighting another downside of using an inquiry system.
The effect of signage and emotions on satisfaction with the servicescape: An empirical investigation in a healthcare service setting
Authors: Vigolo Vania , Bonfanti Angelo , Sallaku Rezarta , Douglas Jackie
Published: December 2019

Marketing and environmental psychology studies have long emphasized the importance of signage in large and dispersive service settings but have focused little on utilitarian service contexts. Previous studies have also analyzed the role of emotions in customer satisfaction with the servicescape, particularly in hedonic service environments such as malls, hotels, and restaurants, but a limited research has been conducted on the role of emotions in utilitarian service settings such as healthcare services. This study draws from the environmental psychology and service marketing literature to investigate the effects of signage and emotions on satisfaction with the servicescape in the hospital setting. In addition, it explores the moderating effect of emotions on the relationship between signage and satisfaction with the servicescape. The findings show that signage has a positive and significant effect on satisfaction with the servicescape. Negative emotions have a significant negative effect on satisfaction, while positive emotions have no significant effect. Differently from what was expected, emotions do not moderate the relationship between signage and satisfaction. Managerial implications are provided for service managers who wish to design a utilitarian service setting to effectively increase user satisfaction with the servicescape.
Mono‐components from Blaschke products as solutions of a wave equation
Authors: Xiao Bing , Dai Ying , Yuan Wenjun
Published: December 2019

In this note, we prove that the uni‐modular mono‐components from Blaschke products in the unit disc are eigenvectors of the Sturm‐Liouville operators and investigate a kind of wave equations with some initial conditions, which give rise to mono‐components.
Differential 2.4‐GHz CMOS power amplifier using stacked NMOS, transformer, and PMOS structures to enhance reliability
Authors: Ko Gayeon , Lee Milim , Park Joung‐Hu , Park Changkun
Published: December 2019

In this work, we propose a power amplifier using a stacked NMOS, transformer, and a PMOS structure to enhance the reliability of CMOS power amplifiers. The power stage of the amplifier is separated into NMOS and PMOS amplifier stages to moderate the peak voltages at the drains of each NMOS and PMOS. The power generated in the 2 amplifier stages is combined in the transformer, which has 2 primary parts and 1 secondary part. To verify the functionality of the structure, we designed a 2.4‐GHz differential CMOS power amplifier for IEEE 802.11n WLAN applications with 64 quadrature amplitude modulation, 9.6 dB peak‐to‐average power ratio, and a bandwidth of 20 MHz. The designed power amplifier is fabricated using the 180‐nm silicon‐on‐insulator RF CMOS process. The measured maximum linear output power is 17.88 dBm with a gain of 24.34 dB.
Beta‐ray imaging system with γ‐ray coincidence for multiple‐tracer imaging
Authors: Fukuchi Tomonori , Yamamoto Seiichi , Kataoka Jun , Kamada Kei , Yoshikawa Akira , Watanabe Yasuyoshi , Enomoto Shuichi
Published: December 2019

Purpose

Beta‐ray imaging systems are widely used for various biological objects to obtain a two‐dimensional (2D) distribution of β‐ray emitting radioisotopes. However, a conventional β‐ray imaging system is unsuitable for multiple‐tracer imaging, because the continuous energy distribution of β‐rays complicates distinguishing among different tracers by energy information. Therefore, we developed a new type of β‐ray imaging system, which is useful for multiple tracers by detecting coincidence γ‐rays with β‐rays, and evaluated its imaging performance.

Methods

Our system is composed of position‐sensitive β‐ray and γ‐ray detectors. The former is a 35 × 35 × 1‐mm3 Ce‐Doped((La, Gd)2Si2O7) (La‐GPS) scintillation detector, which has a 300‐µm pitch of pixels. The latter is a 43 × 43 × 16‐mm3 bismuth germanium oxide (BGO) scintillation detector. Both detectors are mounted on a flexible frame and placed in a user‐selectable position. We experimentally evaluated the performance of the β‐ray detector and the γ‐ray efficiencies of the γ‐ray detector with different energies, positions, and distances. We also conducted point sources and phantom measurements with dual isotopes to evaluate the system performance of multiple‐tracer imaging.

Results

For the β‐ray detector, the β‐ray detection efficiencies for 45Ca (245‐keV maximum energy) and 90Sr/90Y (545 and 2280‐keV maximum energy) were 14.3% and 21.9%, respectively. The total γ‐ray detection efficiency of the γ‐ray detector for all γ‐rays from 22Na (511‐keV annihilation γ‐rays and a 1275‐keV γ‐ray) in the center position with a detector distance of 20 mm was 17.5%. From a point‐source measurement using 22Na and 90Sr/90Y, we successfully extracted the position of a positron‐γ emitter 22Na. Furthermore, for a phantom experiment using 45Ca and 18F or 18F and 22Na, we successfully extracted the distribution of the second tracer using the annihilation γ‐ray or de‐excitation γ‐ray coincidence. In all the imaging experiments, the event counts of the extracted images were consistent with the counts estimated by the measured γ‐ray efficiencies.

Conclusions

We successfully demonstrated the feasibility of our β‐ray autoradiography system for imaging multiple isotopes. Since our system can identify not only a β‐γ emitter but also a positron emitter using the coincidence detection of annihilation γ‐rays, it is useful for PET tracers and various new applications that are otherwise impractical.
The effect of spiral trajectory correction on pseudo‐continuous arterial spin labeling with high‐performance gradients on a compact 3T scanner
Authors: Kang Daehun , Yarach Uten , In Myung‐Ho , Gray Erin M. , Trzasko Joshua D. , Jo Hang Joon , Shu Yunhong , Huston John , Bernstein Matt A.
Published: December 2019

Purpose

To demonstrate the feasibility of pseudo‐continuous arterial‐spin–labeled (pCASL) imaging with 3D fast‐spin‐echo stack‐of‐spirals on a compact 3T scanner (C3T), to perform trajectory correction for eddy‐current–induced deviations in the spiral readout of pCASL imaging, and to assess the correction effect on perfusion‐related images with high‐performance gradients (80 mT/m, 700T/m/s) of the C3T.

Methods

To track eddy‐current–induced artifacts with Archimedean spiral readout, the spiral readout in pCASL imaging was performed with 5 different peak gradient slew rate (Smax) values ranging from 70 to 500 T/m/s. The trajectory for each Smax was measured using a dynamic field camera and applied in a density‐compensated gridding image reconstruction in addition to the nominal trajectory. The effect of the trajectory correction was assessed with perfusion‐weighted (ΔM) images and proton‐density–weighted images as well as cerebral blood flow (CBF) maps, obtained from 10 healthy volunteers.

Results

Blurring artifact on ΔM images was mitigated by the trajectory correction. CBF values on the left and right calcarine cortices showed no significant difference after correction. Also, the signal‐to‐noise ratio of ΔM images improved, on average, by 7.6% after correction (P < .001). The greatest improvement of 12.1% on ΔM images was achieved with a spiral readout using Smax of 300~400 T/m/s.

Conclusion

Eddy currents can cause spiral trajectory deviation, which leads to deformation of the CBF map even in cases of low value Smax. The trajectory correction for spiral‐readout–based pCASL produces more reliable results for perfusion imaging. These results suggest that pCASL is feasible on C3T with high‐performance gradients.
Stably computing the multiplicity of known roots given leading coefficients
Authors: Clark Gregory J. , Cooper Joshua N.
Published: December 2019

We show that a monic univariate polynomial over a field of characteristic zero, with k distinct nonzero known roots, is determined by precisely k of its proper leading coefficients. Furthermore, we give an explicit, numerically stable algorithm for computing the exact multiplicities of each root over
. We provide a version of the result and accompanying algorithm when the field is not algebraically closed by considering the minimal polynomials of the roots. Then, we demonstrate how these results can be used to obtain the full homogeneous spectra of symmetric tensors—in particular, complete characteristic polynomials of hypergraphs.
Population‐Based Study of Traffic‐Related Air Pollution and Obesity in Mexican Americans
Authors: Zhang Xueying , Zhao Hua , Chow Wong‐Ho , Bixby Moira , Durand Casey , Markham Christine , Zhang Kai
Published: December 2019

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the cross‐sectional association between residential exposure to traffic‐related air pollution and obesity in Mexican American adults.

Methods

A total of 7,826 self‐reported Mexican Americans aged 20 to 60 years old were selected from the baseline survey of the MD Anderson Mano‐a‐Mano Mexican American Cohort. Concentrations of traffic‐related particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter  < 2.5 μm were modeled at geocoded residential addresses using a dispersion models. The residential proximity to the nearest major road was calculated using a Geographic Information System. Linear and logistic regression models were used to estimate the adjusted associations between exposure and obesity, defined as BMI ≥ 30.

Results

More than half (53.6%) of the study participants had BMI ≥ 30, with a higher prevalence in women (55.0%) than in men (48.8%). Overall higher traffic‐related air pollution exposures were associated with lower BMI in men but higher BMI in women. By stratifying for those who lived in a 0‐ to 1,500‐m road buffer, the one‐interquartile‐range (685.1 m) increase of distance to a major road had a significant association with a 0.58‐kg/m2 lower BMI (95% CI: −0.92 to −0.24) in women.

Conclusions

Exposure to intensive traffic is associated with increased risk of obesity in Mexican American women.
The impact of Public Distribution System on poverty in India
Authors: Thomas Sweety , Chittedi Krishna Reddy
Published: December 2019

Assessing the poverty reduction in terms of food subsidies through Public Distribution System (PDS) is an important means by which the income transfer between poor and rich expenditure classes can be analyzed. The study intends to analyze the impact of PDS on poverty on rural and urban regions. It also makes a comparative assessment between the subsidy transfers among the poor and rich expenditure classes of households. The data for this objective are adopted from 68th round of National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO) report on PDS and other sources of household consumption (2011–2012). The impact of PDS on poverty is measured monthly per capita consumption expenditure (MPCE) decile wise by using income transfer method for major 17 states in the NSSO report. The impact of PDS on poverty is estimated through subsidy or implicit income transfer. The results of the study for all India across the rural and urban areas showed that the impact in terms of percentage increase in real MPCE is more for the poorest expenditure class in topmost MPCE deciles for all the states.
Do public sector organizations ensure labor ethics? Perspectives from ethics and workplace spirituality in Bangladesh's garment sector
Authors: Uddin Mohammad Jasim , Hossain Farhad , Fujimoto Yuka , Ahmed Jashim Uddin
Published: December 2019

The suppression of labor rights is a matter of serious concern in developing countries. Yet little is known about the role of public agencies in protecting the rights of underprivileged employees. Hence, this study aims to examine the reasons behind the persisting labor exploitation in private enterprises despite the presence of public governance and labor codes. Data was collected through in‐depth interviews as well as archives from different external and internal agencies of privately owned garment enterprises in Bangladesh including public administrators and multinational retailers. Kantian ethics and Islamic moral principles were used as theoretical lens to evaluate the labor practices of enterprises. This study contributes to the existing literature by introducing a process model of labor exploitation that depicts multinational power and poor governance to be the main drivers for the abuse of labor ethics. Specifically, political influence and institutional corruption drive poor governance. Public power is exercised to suppress marginalized labor institutions rather than enact labor codes. We found that ethical and spiritual values are not reflected in labor practices and practical suggestions on enacting labor ethics through which the fair enforcement of public power is offered.
Structure‐thermal activity relationship in a novel polymer/MOF‐based neutron‐shielding material
Authors: Hu Chen , Zhai Yu‐Tao , Song Liang‐Liang , Mao Xiao‐Dong
Published: December 2019

Using epoxy resin (EP), a thermosetting polymer, as a neutron shielding material in nuclear facilities has become increasingly attractive because it is lightweight and has an excellent durability over neutron irradiation. However, it suffers from drawbacks such as reduced mechanical strength when mixed with functional fillers to improve the neutron shielding properties. In order to solve the issue, in this article, EP/gadolinium metal‐organic framework (Gd‐MOF) composites were successfully prepared, affording a new structural and functional composite with high thermal neutron shielding ability as well as good mechanical property. The shore hardness and Young's modulus of MOF/EP composites were increased remarkably compared with neat EP. Meanwhile, results indicated that the thermal performance of Gd‐MOF/EP composites was obviously increased with the addition of MOF fillers. The proposed mechanism of thermal stability improvement may provide deeper understanding of the structure‐activity relationship in thermosetting resin‐MOF composites for radiation protection application and other relevant academic research.
Examining the associations between the Big Five personality traits and body self‐conscious emotions
Authors: Alcaraz‐Ibáñez Manuel , Sicilia Alvaro , Paterna Adrian
Published: December 2019

This study examined the relationships between the Big Five personality traits and body‐related self‐conscious emotions in a sex‐balanced sample of Spanish undergraduates (N = 748). After controlling for sex, age, and weight discrepancy, neuroticism (positive for shame and guilt), extraversion (negative for shame and positive for pride), conscientiousness (negative for shame and positive for pride), and openness (negative for shame and guilt) emerged as significant cross‐sectional predictors of body‐related self‐conscious emotions. No moderation effect by sex was observed. The explained variance ranged from 10% (hubristic pride) to 26% (shame). Young adults possessing greater than ideally assumed body weight, high levels of neuroticism, and low levels of extraversion, conscientiousness, and openness may be especially vulnerable to body‐image disturbances.
Thermal and angular dependence of next‐generation photovoltaics under indoor lighting
Authors: Chen Chia‐Yuan , Kuo Ting‐Yang , Huang Chien‐Wu , Jian Zih‐Hong , Hsiao Po‐Tsung , Wang Chin‐Li , Lin Jian‐Ci , Chen Chien‐Yu , Chen Chao‐Hsuan , Tung Yung‐Liang , Tsai Ming‐Chi , Huang Kuan‐Min , Chen Chih‐Ming , Hsu Cheng‐Wei , Chen Yen‐Chiao , Pei Zingway , Tingare Yogesh S. , Chou Hsien‐Hsin , Yeh Chen‐Yu , Lin Ching‐Yao , Lee Yuh‐Lang , Lin Hao‐Wu , Meng Hsin‐Fei , Chou Pi‐Tai , Wu Chun‐Guey
Published: December 2019

Next‐generation photovoltaic technologies such as dye‐sensitized solar cells, organic thin‐film photovoltaics and perovskite solar cells are promising to efficiently harvest ambient light energy. However, more and deeper understanding of their photovoltaic characteristics is essential to create new applications under room light illumination. In this study, for the first time, the difference in temperature coefficients and angular dependence of photovoltaic parameters for the large‐area devices are investigated systematically under the compact fluorescent lamp and light‐emitting diode light. These emerging photovoltaic devices, compared with the single crystalline silicon solar cells, not only have higher open‐circuit voltage (up to approximate 1 V) and better power conversion efficiency (in the range of 9.2% ~ 22.6%) but also exhibit less temperature dependent voltage and output power (< −0.6% °C−1), as well as broader angular response (over 75 degrees). The state‐of‐the‐art dye‐sensitized and organic thin‐film devices also show advantageously positive temperature coefficients of current, and the latter even has positive thermal dependence of fill factor. These features suggest the next‐generation photovoltaic devices are more favorable than the conventional crystalline silicon solar cells for real‐life indoor applications.
Singlet and triplet cyclonona‐3,5,7‐trienylidenes and their α, ά‐halogenated derivatives at DFT
Authors: Soleimani‐Amiri Somayeh
Published: December 2019

Singlet and triplet boat‐shaped cyclonona‐3,5,7‐trienylidene (1H‐S and 1H‐T) and their corresponding α, ά‐tetrahalo derivatives (1F‐S, 1F‐T, 1Cl‐S, 1Cl‐T, 1Br‐S, 1Br‐T, 1I‐S, and 1I‐T) are compared at M06‐2X/AUG‐cc‐pVDZ, B3LYP/AUG‐cc‐pVTZ, and B3LYP/6‐311++G** levels of theory. Apart from 1H‐S which turns out as a transition state for having a negative force constant, the other structures appear as minima on their potential energy surfaces. 1H, 1Cl, and 1Br carbenes have triplet ground states, while 1F and 1I which initially take on a singlet multiplicity and eventually transform to a more stable intramolecular [1 + 2] cycloaddition product, and trans alkene, respectively. Except for 1H‐T and 1F‐T carbenes, the other triplet states emerge as allene isomer after optimization. We conclude that halogen substitution increases stability based on absolute value of singlet‐triplet energy separation (|ΔES‐T|), in the following order 1Br < 1H ≤ 1Cl < 1I < 1F at B3LYP/AUG‐cc‐pVTZ, and 1Br < 1Cl < 1H < 1I < 1F at M06‐2X/AUG‐cc‐pVDZ. Nucleophilicity of the carbenic center is decreased due to higher electronegativity of substituted halogens. The scrutinized carbenes 1Cl‐S, 1Br‐S, and 1I‐S show higher nucleophilicity and higher electrophilicity than the synthesized common NHCs (2‐6). Hence, compared with 2‐6 carbenes, these halogenated carbenes exhibit ambiphilic character owing to the presence of a σ2‐orbital and vacant 2pπ‐orbital that makes them theoretically more susceptible for attacking an electrophile or a nucleophile.