bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immature survival, fertility, and density dependence drive global population dynamics in a long‐lived species
Authors: Genovart M. , Oro D. , Tenan S.
Published: November 2018

Disentangling the influence of demographic parameters and the role of density dependence on species’ population dynamics is a challenge, especially when fractions of the population are unobservable. Additionally, due to the difficulty of gathering data at large spatial scales, most studies ignore the global dynamic of a species, which would integrate local heterogeneity dynamics and remove the noise of dispersal. We developed an integrated population model (IPM) at a global scale to disentangle the main demographic drivers of population dynamics in a long‐lived species. We used 28 yr of Audouin's Gull demographic data encompassing 69 local patches (comprising 90% of the world population). Importantly, we took into account the unobservable fraction of non‐breeders and also assessed the strength of density dependence for this fraction of the population. As predicted by life histories of long‐lived organisms, temporal random variation in survival was highest for immature individuals (1.326, 95% credible interval [CRI] 1.290–1.940) and lowest for adults (0.499, 95% CRI 0.487–0.720). Large temporal fluctuations in the probability of taking a reproductive sabbatical would partly explain the consistency in adult survival, with individuals most likely refraining from breeding when environmental conditions were harsh. Immature survival and fertility were the main drivers of population dynamics during the study period (r2 = 0.83, 0.77–0.87 and 0.73, 0.63–0.79, respectively). We found strong evidence of density dependence, not only due to the number of breeders (r2 = −0.34, −0.43 to −0.24) but also due to individuals on sabbatical (r2 = −0.18, −0.33 to −0.01). From a conservation point of view, the species shows a 5% annual global decrease during the last 10 years, and we propose an update of its conservation status. Even though population dynamics of long‐lived organisms are very sensitive to changes in adult survival, we show here that, in the absence of strong environmental perturbations affecting this vital rate, fluctuations in population density are mainly driven by variations in survival of immature individuals and fertility. Integrated models based on long‐term monitoring at a global scale may enhance our ecological and evolutionary understanding of how demographic drivers influence population dynamics.
In Situ‐Derived Porous SiO2/Carbon Nanocomposite from Lichens for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Xin , Xing Chao , Li Fangnan , Qu Jie , Wang Chao , Lai Chao
Published: November 2018

A 3D SiO2/carbon nanocomposite is fabricated from lichens successfully. By acid‐washing, nanoporous structure can be generated by removing inorganic compounds. Comparing with the SiO2/carbon nanocomposite before acid‐washing, the one after acid‐washing displays decreased electrochemical reaction resistance and better electrochemical performance as anode materials for the lithium‐ion battery. At a current density of 100 mA g−1, the hierarchical porous SiO2/carbon nanocomposite after acid‐washing shows excellent cycle stability. A high reversible capacity of 583.3 mAh g−1 can still be obtained after 100 cycles, which is much higher than the theoretical capacity of graphite.
Impedance Spectroscopy Study of the Dependence of High‐temperature Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cell Parameters on Current
Authors: Kondratenko M. , Kulikovsky A.
Published: November 2018

A recent quasi–2D numerical model for low–temperature PEMFC impedance is modified and applied for the first time for fitting the experimental spectra of HT–PEMFC measured at low stoichiometries of the oxygen flow in the range of current densities from 20 to 160 mA cm−2. The double layer capacitance, the proton conductivity and the oxygen diffusivity of the cathode catalyst layer exhibit linear growth with current density, while the ORR Tafel slope and the GDL oxygen diffusivity are independent from the cell current. The physics behind these dependencies is discussed.
Long‐term quality of life in older patients with HPV‐related oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Baxi Shrujal S. , Cullen Grace , Xiao Han , Atoria Coral L. , Sherman Eric J. , Ho Alan , Lee Nancy Y. , Elkin Elena B. , Pfister David G.
Published: November 2018

Background

We explored if age affects quality of life (QOL) in survivors of locally advanced human papillomavirus (HPV)‐related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Methods

In a cross‐sectional survey of 185 patients, at least 12 months from radiation, we evaluated generic (EuroQOL‐5D questionnaire [EQ‐5D]) and head and neck specific (European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire‐Head and Neck 35‐questions [EORTC‐QLQ‐H&N35]) QOL questionnaires and compared differences between younger (<65) and older (≥65) patients.

Results

The median age was 57.0 years (range 25‐77 years), and 31 patients (16.8%) were ≥65 years old. There was no significant difference in EQ‐5D global QOL scores by age (P = .53). Patients ≥65 years reported more immobility (P < .01), problems with social eating (P < .0001), and coughing (P < .01). Patients ≥65 years were not more likely to ever require a gastrostomy (P = .24) but were more likely to remain gastrostomy‐dependent at the time of the survey (P = .02).

Conclusion

Despite similar generic QOL, older survivors may have more mobility problems and issues with social eating compared with younger survivors deserving of further evaluation.
Salivary duct carcinoma: Prospective multicenter study of 61 cases of the Réseau d'Expertise Français des Cancers ORL Rares
Authors: Villepelet Aude , Lefèvre Marine , Verillaud Benjamin , Janot François , Garrel Renaud , Vergez Sébastien , Bertolus Chloé , Malard Olivier , de Gabory Ludovic , Mauvais Olivier , Baujat Bertrand ,   the REFCOR members
Published: November 2018

Background

The purposes of this study were to describe the characteristics of a prospective multicenter series of patients with salivary duct carcinoma and to investigate prognostic factors.

Methods

Patients included for salivary duct carcinoma between 2009 and 2016 in the Réseau d'Expertise Français des Cancers ORL Rares (REFCOR) database were selected. Immunohistochemical analyses were performed.

Results

Sixty‐one patients were included in this study. The primary site was the parotid gland in 90% of the cases. Fifty‐seven percent of the tumors were stage IV, 65% of patients had lymph node involvement, and 10% had metastases. Tumors showed androgen receptor (89%) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)/neu (36%). Ninety‐four percent of patients underwent surgery and 86% had postoperative radiotherapy. Six patients were treated with targeted therapies. The 3‐year overall survival (OS) was 74% and the 3‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) was 44%. Tumor stages III to IV reduced DFS (hazard ratio [HR] 4.3; P = .04). The N2/3 class reduced distant metastasis‐free survival (HR 7.3; P = .007).

Conclusion

Salivary duct carcinoma prognosis is poor and is correlated with tumor stage and lymph node classification. Androgen receptor and HER2/neu should be tested as they offer the possibility of targeted therapies.
Evaporites: Relative humidity control of primary mineral facies revisited
Authors: Oroud Ibrahim M.
Published: November 2018

It is widely accepted that the deposition of mineral facies of evaporite basins is controlled by the average annual relative humidity of the contiguous atmosphere, which dictates the equilibrium activity of the evaporating brine. This concept has far reaching implications in salt works and for the investigation of paleoenvironmental settings affecting depositional sequences within evaporite basins. The above concept, which dominated the scientific thought of evaporite basin investigations, suffers from two serious flaws: (a) the assumption of a static decoupled atmosphere and (b) the total neglect of energy input and thermodynamic feedbacks resulting from evaporation suppression. The present investigation will resolve the underlying mechanisms controlling the equilibrium activity of hypersaline solutions using a theoretical framework that combines energy and mass transport across the surface–atmosphere boundary.

Calculations of the equilibrium activity of hypersaline solutions under isothermal conditions, as implied in the original concept, are not in line with the basic physical principles defining heat and mass exchange across the brine–atmosphere boundary and lead to substantial overestimation of actual evaporation and the activity itself. It is demonstrated that in addition to atmospheric relative humidity, the activity of hypersaline solutions is determined by numerous meteorological forcings along with hydrological, geochemical, and thermodynamic feedback mechanisms. Evaporation suppression resulting from a drop in brine activity causes substantial increase in brine temperature, which enhances vapour pressure differential across the interface, leading to more evaporation. This negative feedback shifts the brine activity downward for equilibrium to be attained. It is also demonstrated that evaporation from a brine surface usually proceeds when the relative humidity of the contiguous atmosphere is similar or even higher than that of the brine due to energy input and the strong negative feedback caused by evaporation suppression. The present investigation re‐establishes a new paradigm concerning the processes controlling evaporite basin sedimentation and palaeoclimate reconstruction as deduced from evaporite/hypersaline basin deposits. Findings have operational ramifications in the industrial applications of dissolved salt mineral extraction.
A complete solution to existence of H designs
Authors: Ji Lijun
Published: November 2018

An H design is a triple , where is a set of points, a partition of into disjoint sets of size , and a set of ‐element transverses of , such that each ‐element transverse of is contained in exactly one of them. In 1990, Mills determined the existence of an
H design with . In this paper, an efficient construction shows that an
H exists for any integer with . Consequently, the necessary and sufficient conditions for the existence of an
H design are , , and , with a definite exception .
Protective effects of the ROCK inhibitor fasudil against cognitive dysfunction following status epilepticus in male rats
Authors: Song Xiaojie , He Rong , Han Wei , Li Tianyi , Xie Lingling , Cheng Li , Chen Hengsheng , Xie Mingdan , Jiang Li
Published: November 2018

Despite remarkable advances in epilepsy research, prevention and reversal of cognitive deficits following epilepsy remain a challenge. It was reported that the Rho kinase (ROCK) inhibitor fasudil hydrochloride (FH) could improve cognitive deficits in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine whether FH–mediated inhibition of the effects of ROCK signaling could improve cognitive deficits in male rats (postnatal 21‐day old) following status epilepticus (SE) induced by lithium‐pilocarpin, the therapeutic window of opportunity and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms. Western blotting analysis showed upregulation of phosphorylated RhoA (p‐RhoA) expression, and indicated activation of Rho/ROCK signaling after SE. The Morris water maze (MWM) test was used to analyze learning‐memory ability. HE staining, immunofluorescence staining with antineuronal nuclei (NeuN) and anti‐neurofilament proteins 200 kD (NF200), transmission electron microscopy, and quantitative analysis of NeuN and synaptophysin by western blotting were performed to observe alterations in neurons, axons, and synapses in the hippocampi. Electroencephalogram (EEG) monitoring was used to record electrophysiological activities after SE. Our results indicated that treatment with FH at the first day following SE or 5 days later both could ameliorate cognitive dysfunction by reducing neuron, axon, and synapse damage, and mitigating EEG discharges, suggesting various roles for the Rho/ROCK signaling pathway in the pathological processes of brain damages following SE induced by lithium–pilocarpine. The Rho/ROCK signaling pathway is, therefore, a potential therapeutic target for the prevention or reversal of epilepsy induced brain damages.
Extranodal extension in resected oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma: more to it than meets the eye
Authors: Agarwal Jai Prakash , Kane Shubhada , Ghosh‐Laskar Sarbani , Pilar Avinash , Manik Vishal , Oza Nikita , Wagle Pranjali , Gupta Tejpal , Budrukkar Ashwini , Murthy Vedang , Swain Monali
Published: November 2018

Objective/Hypothesis

Extranodal extension (ENE) is an independent prognosticator in head–neck Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). All patients with ENE, however, do not behave the same, and there is a need for further risk stratification. This study evaluates the prognostic significance of various grades of ENE and the number of nodes with ENE on overall survival (OS) in oral cavity SCC (OCSCC).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods

Ninety‐four patients with node‐positive OCSCC treated with primary surgery and appropriate adjuvant therapy during the year 2011 were evaluated. Surgical histopathology slides of all patients were reviewed, and ENE was graded according to the grading system proposed by Lewis Jr et al.

Results

On univariate analysis, lymph node density (LND) greater than or equal to 0.12 (P = 0.013), the presence of ENE in more than two nodes (P = 0.006), and ENE grade 3 through 4 (P = 0.035) were associated with worse (OS). Conventional prognostic factors such as tumor (T) stage, nodal (N) stage, stage grouping, depth of invasion, and pattern of invasion did not have a significant impact on OS. On multivariate analysis, the presence of ENE in more than two nodes (P = 0.018) independently predicted a worse OS. Extranodal extension grade 3 through 4 showed a trend toward significance (P = 0.08). A combination of LND greater than or equal to 0.12, ENE grade 3 through 4, and ENE in more than two lymph nodes conferred the poorest prognosis (3‐year OS: 18%; P = 0.000).

Conclusion

In patients with ENE and advanced nodal disease, T stage, N stage, stage group, depth, and pattern of invasion lose their impact on OS. In patients with ENE, nodal characteristics such as LND, the number of nodes with ENE, and grade of ENE serve as important prognosticators and aid in further risk stratification.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 129:1130–1136, 2019
Documenting soil redistribution on livestock‐poached pasture using caesium‐134 and cobalt‐60 as tracers
Authors: Greenwood Philip , Meusburger Katrin
Published: November 2018

Poaching is caused by the excessive trampling of soil and vegetation by herd animals and is prevalent in intensively managed grasslands. It is viewed as detrimental to soil fertility, has the potential to contribute to soil erosion, and thus represents a form of land degradation that is unsustainable. Attempts to document sediment redistribution by poaching have been hampered by a lack of techniques capable of measuring the movement of poached material at requisite spatial and temporal scales. We present a new tracing technique, using caesium‐134 (134Cs) and cobalt‐60 (60Co), which is designed to overcome those problems. Nine areas (plots) of grassland, each measuring 0.04 m2, were directly labelled with a known activity of either 134Cs or 60Co. Three plots were located on level, unpoached ground for use as controls, and six were located in livestock‐poached areas. Initial surface inventories were documented and then remeasured on three occasions after rainfall. Inventory changes were converted to estimates of sediment redistribution, which was documented across all poached plots at each remeasurement. Erosion represented the predominant mechanism, with average soil losses estimated at an equivalent of 0.03 kg m−2 d−1 at the first remeasurement (T1), 0.11 kg m−2 d−1 at T2, and 0.18 kg m−2 d−1 at T3. Despite assuming erosion would diminish, increasing soil loss is attributed to reduced surface roughness. These findings not only confirm the viability of the tracing technique but also demonstrate that livestock‐poached areas act as sediment sources over timescales of at least a few months after poaching has ceased.
Effects of standing stubble on the interception of soil erosion particles
Authors: Liu Haiyang , Hou Zhanfeng , Chen Zhi , Wu Pei , Xuan Chuanzhong , Wang Hongbo
Published: November 2018

Crop residues, particularly standing stubble, can reduce soil erosion by wind in conservation tillage. To determine the optimum architecture of standing stubble for effective reduction of wind speeds near the soil surface, we quantitatively analyzed the interception effect of standing stubbles on soil erosion particles through pure wind experiments and sand‐bearing wind experiments. The relationship between stubble height, row number, and interception rate was also revealed. The study was conducted in a wheat field under conservation tillage. Three representative heights of standing stubble were tested: 10, 20, and 30 cm. All had an average plant density of 400 plants m−2, row spacing of 20 cm, and an average stubble cover of 52%. A wind‐tunnel was placed over the stubble, and the central wind speeds were selected at 6, 9, 12, 15, and 18 m s−1. During the experiments, the blowing time was set for 10 min, and 1,404 g of local soil from the experimental area was fed into the wind‐tunnel. A sand collector was placed at the 16th, 19th, 23rd, 27th, and 31st stubble row away from the air inlet of the wind‐tunnel to measure the amount of soil eroded by wind at different stubble heights under conditions of blank and sand‐bearing winds. The concept of ‘interception rate’ and its corresponding formula were proposed. The interception rates of 10‐cm and 20‐cm high stubbles were lower than those of 30‐cm stubble and decreased sharply, particularly at wind speeds >12 m s−1. Even at the wind speed of 18 m s−1, the interception of wind erosion particles with 30‐cm high stubble at 16th, 19th, 23rd, 27th, and 31st rows were 20.85%, 41.55%, 60.46%, 80.59%, and 85.96%, but only 5.75%, 24.76%, 39.32%, 62.39%, and 76.04% with 10‐cm high stubble at the same positions. The interception effect was similar at the 27th and 31st rows. However, more than 31 rows would be required of the 10‐cm stubble and 20‐cm stubble to intercept the same amount of wind erosion particles as with 27 rows of the 30‐cm stubble. The soil particle interception rate increased with an increase in the number of rows of standing stubble and decreased with an increase in wind speed. As expected, with additional rows of stubble, the amount of soil intercepted increased. Therefore, for a farmland that uses 400 plants m−2, leaves of 30‐cm high stubble with 52% cover, and has row spacing of ≤20 cm, the effective amount of standing stubble should be more than 27 rows.
New horizons in particle therapy systems
Authors: Farr Jonathan B. , Flanz Jacob B. , Gerbershagen Alexander , Moyers Michael F.
Published: November 2018

Particle therapy is rapidly expanding and claiming its position as the treatment modality of choice in teletherapy. However, the rate of expansion continues to be restricted by the size and cost of the associated particle therapy systems and their operation. Additional technical limitations such as dose delivery rate, treatment process efficiency, and achievement of superior dose conformity potentially hinder the complete fulfillment of the promise of particle therapy. These topics are explored in this review considering the current state of particle therapy systems and what improvements are required to overcome the current challenges. Beam production systems (accelerators), beam transport systems including gantries and beam delivery systems are addressed explicitly in these regards.
A comparison of mechanism‐inspired models for particle relative biological effectiveness (RBE)
Authors: Stewart Robert D. , Carlson David J. , Butkus Michael P. , Hawkins Roland , Friedrich Thomas , Scholz Michael
Published: November 2018

Background and Significance

The application of heavy ion beams in cancer therapy must account for the increasing relative biological effectiveness (RBE) with increasing penetration depth when determining dose prescriptions and organ at risk (OAR) constraints in treatment planning. Because RBE depends in a complex manner on factors such as the ion type, energy, cell and tissue radiosensitivity, physical dose, biological endpoint, and position within and outside treatment fields, biophysical models reflecting these dependencies are required for the personalization and optimization of treatment plans.

Aim

To review and compare three mechanism‐inspired models which predict the complexities of particle RBE for various ion types, energies, linear energy transfer (LET) values and tissue radiation sensitivities.

Methods

The review of models and mechanisms focuses on the Local Effect Model (LEM), the Microdosimetric‐Kinetic (MK) model, and the Repair‐Misrepair‐Fixation (RMF) model in combination with the Monte Carlo Damage Simulation (MCDS). These models relate the induction of potentially lethal double strand breaks (DSBs) to the subsequent interactions and biological processing of DSB into more lethal forms of damage. A key element to explain the increased biological effectiveness of high LET ions compared to MV x rays is the characterization of the number and local complexity (clustering) of the initial DSB produced within a cell. For high LET ions, the spatial density of DSB induction along an ion's trajectory is much greater than along the path of a low LET electron, such as the secondary electrons produced by the megavoltage (MV) x rays used in conventional radiation therapy. The main aspects of the three models are introduced and the conceptual similarities and differences are critiqued and highlighted. Model predictions are compared in terms of the RBE for DSB induction and for reproductive cell survival.

Results and Conclusions

Comparisons of the RBE for DSB induction and for cell survival are presented for proton (1H), helium (4He), and carbon (12C) ions for the therapeutically most relevant range of ion beam energies. The reviewed models embody mechanisms of action acting over the spatial scales underlying the biological processing of potentially lethal DSB into more lethal forms of damage. Differences among the number and types of input parameters, relevant biological targets, and the computational approaches among the LEM, MK and RMF models are summarized and critiqued. Potential experiments to test some of the seemingly contradictory aspects of the models are discussed.
Experimental implementation of a joint statistical image reconstruction method for proton stopping power mapping from dual‐energy CT data
Authors: Zhang Shuangyue , Han Dong , Williamson Jeffrey F. , Zhao Tianyu , Politte David G. , Whiting Bruce R. , O’Sullivan Joseph A.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

To experimentally commission a dual‐energy CT (DECT) joint statistical image reconstruction (JSIR) method, which is built on a linear basis vector model (BVM) of material characterization, for proton stopping power ratio (SPR) estimation.

Methods

The JSIR‐BVM method builds on the relationship between the energy‐dependent photon attenuation coefficients and the proton stopping power via a pair of BVM component weights. The two BVM component images are simultaneously reconstructed from the acquired DECT sinograms and then used to predict the electron density and mean excitation energy (I‐value), which are required by the Bethe equation for SPR computation. A post‐reconstruction image‐based DECT method, which utilizes the two separate CT images reconstructed via the scanner’s software, was implemented for comparison. The DECT measurement data were acquired on a Philips Brilliance scanner at 90 and 140 kVp for two phantoms of different sizes. Each phantom contains 12 different soft and bony tissue surrogates with known compositions. The SPR estimation results were compared to the reference values computed from the known compositions. The difference of the computed water equivalent path lengths (WEPL) across the phantoms between the two methods was also compared.

Results

The overall root‐mean‐square (RMS) of SPR estimation error of the JSIR‐BVM method are 0.33% and 0.37% for the head‐ and body‐sized phantoms, respectively, and all SPR estimates of the test samples are within 0.7% of the reference ground truth. The image‐based method achieves overall RMS errors of 2.35% and 2.50% for the head‐ and body‐sized phantoms, respectively. The JSIR‐BVM method also reduces the pixel‐wise random variation by 4‐fold to 6‐fold within homogeneous regions compared to the image‐based method. The average differences between the JSIR‐BVM method and the image‐based method are 0.54% and 1.02% for the head‐ and body‐sized phantoms, respectively.

Conclusion

By taking advantage of an accurate polychromatic CT data model and a model‐based DECT statistical reconstruction algorithm, the JSIR‐BVM method accounts for both systematic bias and random noise in the acquired DECT measurement data. Therefore, the JSIR‐BVM method achieves good accuracy and precision on proton SPR estimation for various tissue surrogates and object sizes. In contrast, the experimentally achievable accuracy of the image‐based method may be limited by the uncertainties in the image formation process. The result suggests that the JSIR‐BVM method has the potential for more accurate SPR prediction compared to post‐reconstruction image‐based methods in clinical settings.
Youth Subjective Social Status (SSS) is Associated with Parent SSS, Income, and Food Insecurity but not Weight Loss Among Low‐Income Hispanic Youth
Authors: Cardel Michelle I. , Tong Suhong , Pavela Greg , Dhurandhar Emily , Miller Darci , Boles Richard , Haemer Matthew
Published: November 2018

Objective

Subjective social status (SSS), perceived rank in the social ladder, is associated with weight, but determinants of SSS in youth remain unknown. Relationships between youth SSS and income, food insecurity, parent SSS, and BMI change were investigated during an obesity intervention.

Methods

Data came from a family‐centered, community‐based obesity intervention for low‐income families. Parent and youth SSS were assessed using a validated, age‐appropriate SSS scale. Food insecurity and socioeconomic factors were assessed in parents; child and parent weight‐related data were measured at baseline and post intervention.

Results

Participants included 110 primarily Hispanic (97%) low‐income youth and their parents. Food insecurity was reported in 66.4% of families. Youth SSS was positively associated with parent SSS (P = 0.0014). In both parents and children, the association between income and SSS was moderated by food insecurity such that lower income was more strongly associated with lower SSS among food‐insecure households (P = 0.0286 and P = 0.0327, respectively). Youth SSS was not associated with youth BMI reduction.

Conclusions

Youth SSS was not predictive of weight loss in this intervention. Intriguingly, the association between income and SSS was modified by food insecurity, suggesting that food insecurity shapes the contribution of socioeconomic factors to one’s perceived social status.
A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Study of Gelesis100: A Novel Nonsystemic Oral Hydrogel for Weight Loss
Authors: Greenway Frank L. , Aronne Louis J. , Raben Anne , Astrup Arne , Apovian Caroline M. , Hill James O. , Kaplan Lee M. , Fujioka Ken , Matejkova Erika , Svacina Stepan , Luzi Livio , Gnessi Lucio , Navas‐Carretero Santiago , Alfredo Martinez J. , Still Christopher D. , Sannino Alessandro , Saponaro Cosimo , Demitri Christian , Urban Lorien E. , Leider Harry , Chiquette Elaine , Ron Eyal S. , Zohar Yishai , Heshmati Hassan M.
Published: November 2018

Objective

This study aims to assess the efficacy and safety of Gelesis100, a novel, nonsystemic, superabsorbent hydrogel to treat overweight or obesity.

Methods

The Gelesis Loss Of Weight (GLOW) study was a 24‐week, multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study in patients with BMI ≥  27 and ≤ 40 kg/m2 and fasting plasma glucose ≥ 90 and ≤ 145 mg/dL. The co‐primary end points were placebo‐adjusted weight loss (superiority and 3% margin super‐superiority) and at least 35% of patients in the Gelesis100 group achieving ≥ 5% weight loss.

Results

Gelesis100 treatment caused greater weight loss over placebo (6.4% vs. 4.4%, P = 0.0007), achieving 2.1% superiority but not 3% super‐superiority. Importantly, 59% of Gelesis100‐treated patients achieved weight loss of ≥ 5%, and 27% achieved ≥ 10% versus 42% and 15% in the placebo group, respectively. Gelesis100‐treated patients had twice the odds of achieving ≥ 5% and ≥ 10% weight loss versus placebo (adjusted OR: 2.0, P = 0.0008; OR: 2.1, P = 0.0107, respectively), with 5% responders having a mean weight loss of 10.2%. Patients with prediabetes or drug‐naive type 2 diabetes had six times the odds of achieving ≥ 10% weight loss. Gelesis100 treatment had no apparent increased safety risks.

Conclusions

Gelesis100 is a promising new nonsystemic therapy for overweight and obesity with a highly desirable safety and tolerability profile.
Magnetic Remote Activation of Shape Recovery in Nanocomposites Based on Tung Oil and Styrene
Authors: Meiorin Cintia , Actis Daniel G. , Montoro Fabiano E. , Moscoso Londoño Oscar , Aranguren Mirta I. , Muraca Diego , Mendoza Zélis Pedro , Knobel Marcelo , Mosiewicki Mirna A.
Published: November 2018

The activation of unconstrained shape recovery in bio‐based polymeric nanocomposites is successfully achieved using magnetic nanoparticle heating. The materials investigated in this work present several distinct physical and chemical characteristics worth pointing out: they can be deformed and the original shape can be recovered by remotely heating the samples above their switching temperature, which is determined by their glass transition temperatures. Also, their chemical composition is largely based on biomass (the polymeric matrix contains more than 50 wt.% of raw tung oil). Magnetic heating performance is strongly affected by both the physical properties and the concentration of the nanoparticles loaded into the matrix. The concentration of nanoparticles is associated with the formation of agglomerates or clusters, which determines the dipolar interactions among the nanoparticles. The particles used in this work are able to absorb enough energy from an alternating magnetic field to heat the matrix and initiate the shape recovery. Although the sample with the highest content of magnetic solute (10 wt.%) presents the highest degree of agglomeration, it is also the sample with the best remote activation of shape recovery, according to the temperature reached under magnetothermal measurements and the time of actuation.
Reference materials selection for the stable carbon isotope analysis of dissolved carbon using a wet oxidation system
Authors: Skrzypek Grzegorz , Ford Douglas
Published: November 2018

Rationale

Wet chemical oxidation combined with isotope ratio mass spectrometry has become a routine technique for analyzing the stable carbon isotope composition of dissolved organic (DOC) and inorganic (DIC) carbon. However, methodological inconsistencies between laboratories in using different reference materials lead to a discrepancy in results. We experimentally tested the precision and accuracy of the analysis of commonly available international reference materials and other chemicals potentially suitable for laboratory standards.

Methods

The solid international reference materials and other simple chemicals were used to prepare water solutions. A range of carbon concentrations was chosen to optimize tests for (1) precision and accuracy, (2) linearity, (3) detection limits, (4) memory effects, and (5) efficiency of DIC removal from a DOC/DIC mixtures. Samples were analyzed using an LC‐IsoLink coupled with a Delta V Plus isotope ratio mass spectrometer (Thermo Fisher Scientific).

Results

The analytical setup had a negligible memory effect, good reproducibility (<0.21‰) and accuracy (maximum difference from the true values <0.35‰) for the analyzed organic compounds if approximately ≥9 × 10−09 moles of dissolved carbon was injected into the system (~11 mg C L−1 if a 10‐μL loop was used). Analyses of sodium bicarbonate or calcium carbonate solutions had a two‐fold lower accuracy despite maintaining a high precision.

Conclusions

Aqueous solutions of international reference materials such as L‐glutamic acids (USGS40, USGS41), benzoic acid (IAEA‐601) and sucrose (IAEA‐CH‐6) can be successfully used for direct normalization of results to the VPDB scale. By contrast, analyses of caffeine and urea returned very reproducible but highly inaccurate results and these materials are not recommended for standards.
Differentially private nonlinear observer design using contraction analysis
Authors: Le Ny Jerome
Published: November 2018

Real‐time information processing applications such as those enabling a more intelligent infrastructure are increasingly focused on analyzing privacy‐sensitive data obtained from individuals. To produce accurate statistics about the habits of a population of users of a system, this data might need to be processed through model‐based estimators. Moreover, models of population dynamics, originating for example from epidemiology or the social sciences, are often necessarily nonlinear. Motivated by these trends, this paper presents an approach to design nonlinear privacy‐preserving model‐based observers, relying on additive input or output noise to give differential privacy guarantees to the individuals providing the input data. For the case of output perturbation, contraction analysis allows us to design convergent observers as well as set the level of privacy‐preserving noise appropriately. Two examples illustrate the proposed approach: estimating the edge formation probabilities in a social network using a dynamic stochastic block model, and syndromic surveillance relying on an epidemiological model.
Benign One‐Pot Synthesis of Carbamo(dithioperoxo)thioate Compounds in Water Medium Using N‐(Arylthio)phthalimides as the Electrophilic Sulfur Source
Authors: Dutta Soumya , Saha Amit
Published: November 2018

Carbamo(dithioperoxo)thioate compounds have been synthesized in aqueous medium under open aerial condition at room temperature. N‐(Arylthio)phthalimides are used as electrophilic sulfur donors which react with in situ generated dithiocarbamate anions to produce carbamo(dithioperoxo)thioates in excellent yields. After the reaction, phthalimide residue was recovered and reused to prepare N‐(Arylthio)phthalimides.
Cyclometalated Iridium(III) Complexes Featuring Disubstituted Cyanamides
Authors: Kinzhalov Mikhail A. , Parfenova Suzanna N. , Novikov Alexander S. , Katlenok Evgeniy A. , Puzyk Mikhail V. , Avdontceva Margarita S. , Bokach Nadezhda A.
Published: November 2018

The neutral cyclometalated iridium(III) complexes [Ir(ppy)2Cl(NCNR2)] [ppy=2‐phenylpyridinato‐C2,N, R=Me 3 a, Et 3 b,
C5H10 3 c] were prepared via the reaction of the chloro‐bridged dimer [Ir2(ppy)4(μ‐Cl)2] (1) with corresponding dialkylcyanamides NCNR2 (2 a–c) and 3 a–c were isolated in 74–85% yields. The cationic cyclometalated iridium(III) complex [Ir(ppy)2(NCNMe2)2](OTf) (4) was obtained by replacement of chloride ligands with NCNMe2 in 1 in the presence of AgOTf. UV/Vis absorption and emission properties of 3 a−c and 4 were studied; these complexes exhibit luminescence in the solid state upon photoexcitation (340 nm, 77 K). The characteristic feature of the X‐ray structures of 3 a–c is a deviation of the fragment Ir–N–C from linearity by 13.8(5)–22.8(3)°. Quantum chemical DFT calculations and topological analysis of the electron density distribution within the formalism of Bader's theory (AIM method) performed for 3 a–c demonstrated that the Ir–N–C fragments in the optimized equilibrium structures of [Ir(ppy)2Cl(NCNR2)] significantly deviate from the linearity (by 19.8–30.7°) and indicated that the Ir–N contacts between the metal centers and dialkylcyanamide ligands are relatively weak (24–30 kcal/mol) and have a closed‐shell dative interactions character. The charge decomposition analysis (CDA) shows existence of {M}←L donation with almost negligible contribution of the {M}→L back‐donation in 3 a–c.
TBAI/K2S2O8‐Promoted Multicomponent Domino Reaction of Aryl Methyl Ketones, Enaminones, and Indoles: A Facile Access to Multisubstituted 3‐Indolyl‐pyrroles
Authors: Yang Jiao , Zhou Pan , Hu Biao , Zhao Siyun , Zhang Qiaohe , Xu Li , Yang Rui , Yu Fuchao
Published: November 2018

A TBAI/K2S2O8‐promoted multicomponent domino protocol has been developed for the synthesis of various functionalized 3‐indolyl‐pyrroles from simple and readily available aryl methyl ketones, enaminones, and indoles. This domino process involves sequential C(sp3)−H bond oxidative functionalization and cyclization. This practical methodology have significant advantages including simple and readily available starting materials, mild reaction conditions, high tolerance of various functional groups, and very simple operation.
Experimental tests for improving buildability of construction methods for high‐strength concrete columns in high‐rise buildings
Authors: Shim Hak Bo , Kim Yousok , Park Hyo Seon
Published: November 2018

High‐strength concrete columns have the advantage of increasing the amount of usable area in the building because the cross‐section of the columns takes up less space compared with columns using normal strength concrete. However, it is difficult to weld the steel reinforcement and steel members because of the narrow column width due to a decrease in the cross‐section of the column, thereby causing construction delay in many cases. In this paper, five construction methods with different details for high‐strength reinforced concrete columns are tested to improve the buildability of the columns. Five specimens with different construction details were tested and analyzed based on four aspects: (a) the relationship between load and displacements, (b) strain distributions, (c) axial stiffness, and (d) crack patterns. Specimens were constructed using concrete with a compressive strength of 55 MPa, and the design strength of all five specimens were set to about 10,740 kN. From results of the experiment, the specimen with a reduced number of vertical reinforcements from 24 of HD22 (SD400, Fy = 400 MPa) to 16 of UD22 (SD600, Fy = 600 MPa) was the most effective specimen to improve the buildability of the column without deteriorating the structural performance of the reference specimen.
Clockworked VEVs and neutrino mass
Authors: Banerjee Avik , Ghosh Subhajit , Ray Tirtha Sankar
Published: November 2018

Abstract

In this paper we present an augmented version of the Abelian scalar clockwork model to generate geometrically suppressed vacuum expectation values (vev) of the pseudo Nambu-Goldstone bosons, that we call the clockworked vevs. We briefly comment on generalization of the setup and possible 5D UV realizations. We demonstrate how tiny neutrino mass can be generated by clockworking a weak scale vev.
Does climate-smart village approach influence gender equality in farming households? A case of two contrasting ecologies in India
Authors: Hariharan Vinod K. , Mittal Surabhi , Rai Munmun , Agarwal Tripti , Kalvaniya Kailash C. , Stirling Clare M. , Jat M. L.
Published: November 2018

Evidence from climate-smart village (CSV) approach to mainstream climate-smart agriculture (CSA) demonstrates improved productivity, income, and reduced climatic risks. However, its contribution to gender empowerment in diverse farming households is not documented. This study creates a Gender Empowerment Index for climate-smart villages (GEI-CSV) based on four major measurable indicators—political, economic, agricultural, and social. The gender gap was derived by mapping difference in empowerment levels across selected CSVs and non-CSVs. These indicators can be used as a vital tool to understand the process of gender empowerment that can trigger the entry points to achieve gender equality, which is also an important aspect in the adoption of climate-smart agriculture practices (CSAPs). The study measures empowerment at the inter-household and intra-household level across CSVs and non-CSVs from the individual household survey with both female and male members of the same household. This paper provides evidence demonstrating how gender empowerment differs in CSVs and non-CSVs from selected climate-smart villages (community-based approach) in two contrasting ecologies and socio-economic settings of India. The study documents the existing gender gap in CSVs and non-CSVs across India’s western (Haryana) and eastern (Bihar) Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP). Irrespective of CSVs and non-CSVs, considerable differences in outlook and gender gap were observed between Bihar and Haryana. Both women and men in Bihar are less empowered than they are in Haryana. High empowerment level in CSVs than non-CSVs shows that the concept of CSVs has brought a change towards knowledge and capacity enhancement of both women and men farmers promoting gender equality in farming households with a varying scope of interventions made and required for scaling CSAPs across the diversity of farming households.
The clinical practice of risk reduction for Alzheimer's disease: A precision medicine approach
Authors: Isaacson Richard S. , Ganzer Christine A. , Hristov Hollie , Hackett Katherine , Caesar Emily , Cohen Randy , Kachko Robert , Meléndez‐Cabrero Josefina , Rahman Aneela , Scheyer Olivia , Hwang Mu Ji , Berkowitz Cara , Hendrix Suzanne , Mureb Monica , Schelke Matthew W. , Mosconi Lisa , Seifan Alon , Krikorian Robert
Published: November 2018

Like virtually all age‐related chronic diseases, late‐onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) develops over an extended preclinical period and is associated with modifiable lifestyle and environmental factors. We hypothesize that multimodal interventions that address many risk factors simultaneously and are individually tailored to patients may help reduce AD risk. We describe a novel clinical methodology used to evaluate and treat patients at two Alzheimer's Prevention Clinics. The framework applies evidence‐based principles of clinical precision medicine to tailor individualized recommendations, follow patients longitudinally to continually refine the interventions, and evaluate N‐of‐1 effectiveness (trial registered at ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03687710). Prior preliminary results suggest that the clinical practice of AD risk reduction is feasible, with measurable improvements in cognition and biomarkers of AD risk. We propose using these early findings as a foundation to evaluate the comparative effectiveness of personalized risk management within an international network of clinician researchers in a cohort study possibly leading to a randomized controlled trial.
The hidden variables problem in Alzheimer's disease clinical trial design
Authors: Liyanage S. Imindu , Santos Clarissa , Weaver Donald F.
Published: November 2018

As the leading cause of dementia worldwide, Alzheimer's disease has garnered intense academic and clinical interest. Yet, trials in search of a disease‐modifying therapy have failed overwhelmingly. We suggest that, in part, this may be attributable to the influence of disruptive variables inherent to the framework of a clinical trial. Specifically, we observe that everyday factors such as diet, education, mental exertion, leisure participation, multilingualism, sleep, trauma, and physical activity, as well as clinical/study parameters including environment, family coaching, concurrent medications, and illnesses may serve as potent confounders, disruptors, or sources of bias to an otherwise significant drug‐disease interaction. This perspective briefly summarizes the potential influence of these hidden variables on the outcomes of clinical trials and suggests strategies to abate their impact.
Development of Criteria for Epilepsy Genetic Testing in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Jain Puneet , Andrade Danielle , Donner Elizabeth , Dyment David , Prasad Asuri N. , Goobie Sharan , Boycott Kym , Lines Matthew , Snead O. Carter
Published: November 2018

Multiple genes/variants have been implicated in various epileptic conditions. However, there is little general guidance available on the circumstances in which genetic testing is indicated and test selection in order to guide optimal test appropriateness and benefit. This is an account of the development of guidelines for genetic testing in epilepsy, which have been developed in Ontario, Canada. The Genetic Testing Advisory Committee was established in Ontario to review the clinical utility and validity of genetic tests and the provision of genetic testing in Ontario. As part of their mandate, the committee also developed recommendations and guidelines for genetic testing in epilepsy. The recommendations include mandatory prerequisites for an epileptology/geneticist/clinical biochemical geneticist consultation, prerequisite diagnostic procedures, circumstances in which genetic testing is indicated and not indicated and guidance for selection of genetic tests, including their general limitations and considerations. These guidelines represent a step toward the development of evidence-based gene panels for epilepsy in Ontario, the repatriation of genetic testing for epilepsy into Ontario molecular genetic laboratories and public funding of genetic tests for epilepsy in Ontario.
Ultrasound-Assisted Lumbar Puncture in a Neuromuscular Clinic has a High Success Rate and Less Pain
Authors: Abraham Alon , Breiner Ari , Katzberg Hans D. , Lovblom Leif E. , Bril Vera
Published: November 2018

Background:

Lumbar puncture (LP) performed with the assistance of ultrasound (US) may improve success rate, with fewer puncture attempts and less pain.

Objectives:

To explore the utility of US-assisted LP in a neuromuscular clinic.

Methods:

We performed a prospective, randomized, open-label study between May 2016 and January 2017. The primary outcome measure was LP success rate, and the secondary outcome measures included procedure time, number of attempts, and the levels of pain, anxiety, and satisfaction.

Results:

Lumbar puncture was performed in 40 consecutive patients. Ultrasound-assisted LP had a 100% success rate, compared with 85% (95% confidence interval: 58%-96%) without US assistance, although this difference failed to reach statistical significance. Ultrasound-assisted LP was associated with less pain and, also in patients >60 years of age, with fewer needle insertions. Both groups reported high satisfaction rates, regardless of the use of US.

Conclusion:

Ultrasound-assisted LP has a high success rate and less pain than unassisted LP, and can be accomplished easily in the outpatient neuromuscular clinic setting equipped with US.
Unique ergodicity of the horocycle flow on Riemannnian foliations
Authors: ALCALDE CUESTA F. , DAL’BO F. , MARTÍNEZ M. , VERJOVSKY A.
Published: November 2018

A classic result due to Furstenberg is the strict ergodicity of the horocycle flow for a compact hyperbolic surface. Strict ergodicity is unique ergodicity with respect to a measure of full support, and therefore it implies minimality. The horocycle flow has been previously studied on minimal foliations by hyperbolic surfaces on closed manifolds, where it is known not to be minimal in general. In this paper, we prove that for the special case of Riemannian foliations, strict ergodicity of the horocycle flow still holds. This, in particular, proves that this flow is minimal, which establishes a conjecture proposed by Matsumoto. The main tool is a theorem due to Coudène, which he presented as an alternative proof for the surface case. It applies to two continuous flows defining a measure-preserving action of the affine group of the line on a compact metric space, precisely matching the foliated setting. In addition, we briefly discuss the application of Coudène’s theorem to other kinds of foliations.