bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular and Thermodynamic Properties of Zwitterions versus Ionic Liquids: A Comprehensive Computational Analysis to Develop Advanced Separation Processes
Authors: Moreno Daniel , Gonzalez‐Miquel Maria , Ferro Victor R. , Palomar Jose
Published: January 2018

Zwitterion ionic liquids (ZIs) are compounds in which both counterions are covalently tethered, conferring them with unique characteristics; however, most of their properties are still unknown, representing a bottleneck to exploit their practical applications. Herein, the molecular and fluid properties of ZIs and their mixtures were explored by means of quantum chemical analysis based on the density functional theory (DFT) and COSMO‐RS method, and compared against homologous ionic liquids (ILs) to provide a comprehensive overview of the effect of the distinct structures on their physicochemical and thermodynamic behavior. Overall, ZIs were revealed as compounds with higher polarity and stronger hydrogen‐bonding capacity, implying higher density, viscosity, melting point, and even lower volatility than structurally similar ILs. The phase equilibrium of binary and ternary systems supports stronger attractive interactions between ZIs and polar compounds, whereas higher liquid–liquid immiscibility with nonpolar compounds may be expected. Ultimately, the performance of ZIs in the wider context of separation processes is illustrated, while providing molecular insights to allow their selection and design for relevant applications.
Intraparticle Diffusional versus Site Effects on Reaction Pathways in Liquid‐Phase Cross Aldol Reactions
Authors: Ponnuru Koushik , Manayil Jinesh C. , Cho Hong Je , Fan Wei , Wilson Karen , Jentoft Friederike C.
Published: January 2018

Chemo‐ and regioselectivity in a heterogeneously catalyzed cross aldol reaction were directed by tuning the nature of the sites, textural properties, and reaction conditions. Catalysts included sulfonic acid‐functionalized resins or SBA‐15 with varying particle size or pore diameter, H‐BEA zeolites, and Sn‐BEA zeotype; conditions were 25 °C to 170 °C in organic media. Benzaldehyde and 2‐butanone yielded branched (reaction at ‐CH2‐ of butanone) and linear (reaction at ‐CH3) addition and condensation products; and fission of the branched aldol led to β‐methyl styrene and acetic acid. Strong acids promoted the dehydration step, and regioselectivity originated from preferred formation of the branched aldol. Both, resins and functionalized SBA‐15 materials yielded predominantly the branched condensation product, unless particle morphology or temperature moved the reaction into the diffusion‐limited regime, in which case more fission products were formed, corresponding to Wheeler Type II selectivity. For H‐form zeolites, fission of the branched aldol competed with dehydration of the linear aldol, possibly because weaker acidity or steric restrictions prevented dehydration of the branched aldol.
Quantitative Comparison of Enzyme Immobilization Strategies for Glucose Biosensing in Real‐Time Using Fast‐Scan Cyclic Voltammetry Coupled with Carbon‐Fiber Microelectrodes
Authors: Smith Samantha K. , Lugo‐Morales Leyda Z. , Tang C. , Gosrani Saahj P. , Lee Christie A. , Roberts James G. , Morton Stephen W. , McCarty Gregory S. , Khan Saad A. , Sombers Leslie A.
Published: January 2018

Electrochemical monitoring of non‐electroactive species requires a biosensor that is stable and selective, with sensitivity to physiological concentrations of targeted analytes. We have combined glucose oxidase‐modified carbon‐fiber microelectrodes with fast‐scan cyclic voltammetry for real‐time measurements of glucose fluctuations in brain tissue. Work presented herein quantitatively compares three approaches to enzyme immobilization on the microelectrode surface—physical adsorption, hydrogel entrapment, and entrapment in electrospun nanofibers. The data suggest that each of these methods can be used to create functional microbiosensors. Immobilization of glucose oxidase by physical adsorption generates a biosensor with poor sensitivity to glucose and unstable performance. Entrapment of glucose oxidase in poly(vinyl alcohol) nanofibers generates microbiosensors that are effective for glucose measurements over a large linear range, and that may be particularly useful when targeting glucose concentrations in excess of 3 mm, such as in blood. Hydrogel entrapment is the most effective in terms of sensitivity and stability. These microbiosensors can be used for simultaneous monitoring of glucose and dopamine in real time. The findings outlined herein should be applicable to other oxidase enzymes, and thus they are broadly important for the development of new tools for real‐time measurements of fluctuating molecules that are not inherently electroactive.
Changing Prescribing Behavior in the United States: Moving Upstream in Opioid Prescription Education
Authors: Wiese H. Jean C. , Piercey Raven R. , Clark Claire D.
Published: January 2018

In the US, deaths from prescription opioids have quadrupled since 1999, prompting authorities to declare an “opioid abuse” crisis. Rising overdose deaths were attributed to trends in the overprescription of opioids, specifically the strength and duration of the initial prescription. We describe educational interventions designed to control healthcare professionals' (HCPs) opioid prescribing in the wake of this crisis. A review of relevant programs for practicing providers, medical residents, and medical students reveals a focus on educational interventions that we describe, borrowing from sociologist John McKinlay's metaphor for public health interventions, as “downstream.” These downstream interventions concentrate on regulating and educating practicing HCPs rather than transforming the training environment for medical students and residents. We draw on theories of behavior change to call for the development of complementary “upstream” educational programs for future practitioners that focus on structural and psychosocial factors and may contribute to more sustainable behavior change outcomes.
Response Improvement of Microstrip Line Microwave and Milliwave Phase Shifter Utilizing Polymer Stabilized Nematic Liquid Crystal with UV Polymerization
Authors: BUI VAN BAO , INOUE YO , HIGUCHI HIROKI , KIKUCHI HIROTSUGU , MORITAKE HIROSHI
Published: January 2018

With nowadays development of cellular phones and satellite communications, liquid crystal materials have attracted considerable attention for realizing these electrically controllable microwave and milliwave components. As usual, nematic liquid crystal is mainly used for microstrip line (MSL) phase shifter, but when driving voltage is removed, the response time is very long. In this study, we discuss application of polymer stabilized nematic liquid crystals with UV polymerization for improving the response time in MSL phase shifter in which phase shift is about two times larger than that in CPW phase shifter.
Development of Self‐Heated Stage Suitable for Thermal Assist Reactive Ion Etching of the Functional Metals
Authors: MURATA YUKI , HAN GANG , OHKAWA DAIKI , IMAI JUNICHI , SOHGAWA MASAYUKI , ABE TAKASHI
Published: January 2018

This paper describes development of self‐heated stage suitable for thermal reactive ion etching (TRIE) of the functional metals. TRIE was evaluated using both experiments and simulations for etching functional metals. The self‐heated stage was designed based on the simulation results. TRIE employs a self‐heated stage which is thermally insulated aluminum plate as the etching stage of a regular RIE apparatus. The stage temperature increases rapidly within 10 min and etch rate does not depend on process time. TRIE technique was used to etch various kinds of functional metals: Ti, Mo, Ta, Nb, and Ti alloy (Ti‐6Al‐4V). It did improve the etching rate of these materials greatly.
Hyaluronan‐binding by CD44 reduces the memory potential of activated murine CD8 T cells
Authors: Lee‐Sayer Sally S. M. , Maeshima Nina , Dougan Meghan N. , Dahiya Anita , Arif Arif A. , Dosanjh Manisha , Maxwell Christopher A. , Johnson Pauline
Published: January 2018

Expansion and death of effector CD8 T cells are regulated to limit immunopathology and cells that escape contraction go on to generate immunological memory. CD44, a receptor for the extracellular matrix component hyaluronan, is a marker of activated and memory T cells. Here, we show with a murine model that the increase in CD44 expression and hyaluronan binding induced upon CD8 T cell activation was proportional to the strength of TCR engagement, thereby identifying the most strongly activated T cells. When CD44−/− and CD44+/+ OT‐I CD8 T cells were adoptively transferred into mice challenged with Listeria‐OVA, there was a slight increase in the percentage of CD44+/+ cells at the effector site. However, CD44+/+ cells were out‐competed by CD44−/− cells after the contraction phase in the lymphoid tissues, and the CD44−/− cells preferentially formed more memory cells. The hyaluronan‐binding CD44+/+ CD8 effector T cells showed increased pAkt expression, higher glucose uptake, and were more susceptible to cell death during the contraction phase compared to non‐binding CD44+/+ and CD44−/− OT‐I CD8 T cells, suggesting that CD44 and its engagement with hyaluronan skews CD8 T cells toward a terminal effector differentiation state that reduces their ability to form memory cells.
Synthesis of N‐Doped Core–Shell‐Structured Porous CoSe@C Composites and their Efficient Catalytic Activity for the Reduction of 4‐Nitrophenol
Authors: Zhao Haoyang , Li Yunhui , Wang Dongsheng , Zhao Lang
Published: January 2018

In this work, core–shell‐structured CoSe@C and N‐CoSe@C dodecahedra were successfully obtained through the calcination of cobalt‐based metal–organic frameworks (ZIF‐67 as a Co‐based MOF or the N‐containing N‐ZIF‐67). In this approach, the cobalt species in the ZIF‐67 or N‐ZIF‐67 reacted with selenium powder to form CoSe nanoparticles in situ, and the organic species were transformed into carbon materials at temperatures between 700 and 900 °C for 2 h under a nitrogen atmosphere. The as‐synthesized materials were used for the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol (4‐NP) assisted by NaBH4. All of the catalysts could catalyze the reduction of 4‐NP to 4‐AP, and N‐CoSe@C‐800‐4 possessed the highest catalytic activity and could completely convert 4‐NP to 4‐AP in only 40 s at ambient temperature. This catalytic activity may be attributed to the high nitrogen content (4.15 %) of N‐CoSe@C‐800‐4. The morphologies and compositions of the synthesized samples were investigated by SEM, TEM, energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), XRD, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and nitrogen adsorption–desorption measurements.
A Carbon Quantum Dots/Porous InVO4 Microsphere Composite with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Shen Qianhong , You Zengyu , Yu Yang , Qin Tian , Su Yuxuan , Wang Hui , Wu Chunchun , Zhang Fang , Yang Hui
Published: January 2018

A new carbon quantum dots/porous InVO4 (CQDs/p‐InVO4) microsphere composite was synthesized by a facile reflux method. The relationship of structure and property of CQDs/p‐InVO4 was studied in detail. The results show that the as‐prepared composite samples maintain the porous structure of the p‐InVO4 microspheres, while CQDs are uniformly loaded on the surface of the p‐InVO4 microspheres with an intimate interface. With this unique structure, the as‐obtained samples exhibit enhanced photocatalytic degradation ability towards Rhodamine B (RhB) under visible‐light irradiation. The synergistic effect of more active sites, increased visible‐light absorption, and high separation efficiency of photogenerated electron–hole pairs is believed to be the reason for the enhanced photocatalytic activity.
Formation of Mono Oxo Molybdenum(IV) PNP Pincer Complexes: Interplay between Water and Molecular Oxygen
Authors: de Aguiar Sara R. M. M. , Öztopcu Özgür , Troiani Anna , de Petris Giulia , Weil Matthias , Stöger Berthold , Pittenauer Ernst , Allmaier Günter , Veiros Luis F. , Kirchner Karl
Published: January 2018

The synthesis of cationic mono oxo MoIV PNP pincer complexes of the type [Mo(PNPMe‐iPr)(O)X]+ (X = I, Br) from [Mo(PNPMe‐iPr)(CO)X2] is described. These compounds are coordinatively unsaturated and feature a strong Mo≡O triple bond. The formation of these complexes proceeds via cationic 14e intermediates [Mo(PNPMe‐iPr)(CO)X]+ and requires both molecular oxygen and water. ESI MS measurements with 18O labeled water (H218O) and molecular oxygen (18O2) indicates that water plays a crucial role in the formation of the Mo≡O bond. A plausible mechanism based on DFT calculations is provided. The X‐ray structure of [Mo(PNPMe‐iPr)(O)I]SbF6 is presented.
Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Dibenzobarrelene‐Incorporated 1,4‐Diphenyl‐1,3‐pentadienes and a 5‐Sila Derivative Having High Fluorescence Efficiency
Authors: Ishii Akihiko , Shibata Mari , Ebina Ryota , Nakata Norio
Published: January 2018

Two dibenzobarrelene‐incorporated 1,3‐pentadienes and a 5‐sila derivative have been synthesized by intramolecular cycloaddition reactions between (9‐anthryl)methyl, (9‐anthryl)hydroxymethyl, or (9‐anthryl)dimethylsilyl groups and a phenylethynyl group linked by an ethene moiety with a cis conformation. The three compounds exhibit blue luminescence (λem = 432–445 nm) in CH2Cl2 with high quantum yields (ΦF = 0.83–0.92). In the solid state, the methylene and dimethylsilyl derivatives luminesce (λem = 442 and 438 nm, respectively) with narrow full‐width at half‐maxima (FWHM, 40 and 37 nm, respectively), whereas the hydroxymethylene compound shows a broad and slightly redshifted emission (λem = 488 nm, FWHM = 112 nm) due to intermolecular hydrogen bonding. The fluorescence intensity of the dimethylsilyl compound was decreased by desilylation with Bu4NF. The structures of the compounds were characterized unambiguously by NMR spectroscopy and X‐ray crystallography, and their photophysical properties were elucidated both experimentally as well as by TD‐DFT calculations.
2H‐[1,3]Oxazino[3,2‐α]indolin‐4(3H)‐ones: A Class Of Polyheterocyclic Indole‐Based Compounds
Authors: Hartmann Jan M. , de Groot Marita , Schäringer Katja , Henke Kira , Rissanen Kari , Albrecht Markus
Published: January 2018

A methodology for the synthesis of 2H‐[1,3]oxazino[3,2‐α]indolin‐4(3H)‐ones is reported. They are obtained from readily available materials by a facile synthetic procedure following either a two‐step cascade reaction or a step‐by‐step transformation. The target compounds represent a hitherto unreported class of indole derivatives with a novel kind of tris‐ or tetracyclic backbone.
Synthesis of a Thiophene Analogue of Isoindigo by C–H Activation/Oxidative Cyclization and Application of Its Copolymeric Materials to Organic Transistors
Authors: Wang Hua‐Chun , Tao Jingwei , Bai Wei‐Yun , Xie Zi‐Yi , Li Hongxiang , Ren Xiancheng , Xu Yun‐Xiang
Published: January 2018

A novel method for the synthesis of a thiophene analogue of isoindigo (TIIG) is described. The reaction involves a palladium‐catalyzed C–H activation/oxidative cyclization sequence. This new methodology has potential for diversifying the isoindigo family. The thin‐film transistors (TFTs) prepared from a TIIG‐based copolymer (PIDTT‐TIIG) with indacenodithieno[3,2‐b]thiophene (IDTT) exhibit unipolar charge‐transport properties with hole mobilities of 0.17 cm2 V–1 s–1.
Construction of 4‐Isochromanones through Cu(OTf)2‐Catalysed Sequential C=O and C–O Bond Formation
Authors: Xing Siyang , Gu Nan , Qin Jiajing , Cui Hong , Li Yan , Wang Kui , Tian Dawei , Chen Bo , Yu Guo
Published: January 2018

A new strategy for the facile and efficient synthesis of 4‐isochromanones has been developed. The reaction involves a Cu(OTf)2‐catalysed sequential reaction of epoxides carrying electron‐deficient alkenes using the solvent DMSO as the oxidant. The single‐step process involves a sequential oxidative ring opening of epoxides and an oxa‐Michael addition where one new C=O bond and one new C–O bond are created. The advantages of this approach include high efficiency, a broad substrate scope, and mild conditions.
Copper‐based Metal‐organic Framework for Non‐enzymatic Electrochemical Detection of Glucose
Authors: Sun Yanmei , Li Yaxiang , Wang Nan , Xu Qing Qing , Xu Ling , Lin Meng
Published: January 2018

A non‐enzymatic electrochemical glucose sensor based on a Cu‐based metal‐organic framework (Cu‐MOF) modified electrode was developed. The Cu‐MOF was prepared by a simple ionothermal synthesis, and the characterizations of the Cu‐MOF were studied by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), single‐crystal X‐ray powder diffraction (SCXRD), and X‐ray powder diffraction (XRD). Electrochemical behaviors of the Cu‐MOF modified electrode to glucose were measured by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The electrochemical results showed that the Cu‐MOF modified electrode exhibited an excellent electro‐catalytic oxidation towards glucose in the range of 0.06 μM to 5 mM with a sensitivity of 89 μA/mM cm2 and a detection limit of 10.5 nM. Moreover, the fabricated sensor showed a high selectivity to the oxidation of glucose in coexistence with other interferences. The sensor was satisfactorily applied to the determination of glucose in urine samples. With the significant electrochemical performances, MOFs may provide a suitable platform in the construction of kinds of electrochemical sensors and/or biosensors and hold a great promise for sensing applications.
Multiple Amplified Electrochemical Detection of MicroRNA‐21 Using Hierarchical Flower‐like Gold Nanostructures Combined with Gold‐enriched Hybridization Chain Reaction
Authors: Zhu Dan , Liu Wei , Cao Wenfang , Chao Jie , Su Shao , Wang Lianhui , Fan Chunhai
Published: January 2018

In this work, we present a multiple amplified electrochemical method that can detect target microRNA‐21 (miRNA‐21) with high sensitivity by using hierarchical flower‐like gold nanostructures (HFGNs) and gold‐enriched enzyme‐free amplification. The HFGNs deposited on ITO conducting glass served as the electrode substrate with large specific surface area, which allowed the immobilization of large amounts of capture DNA (DNA‐1). Then, the gold‐enriched hybridization chain reaction (HCR) for signal amplification was attached onto the electrode through target miRNA‐mediated sandwich hybridization. The initial strands (I‐DNA) enriched on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) provided plenty of sites for the triggering of the HCR reaction after the addition of H1 and H2 strands, which provided exponential increase of binding sites for the loading of electrochemical signal molecules [Ru(NH3)6]3+. Therefore, multiple signal amplification could be achieved to reach an ultrasensitive detection of miRNA‐21. A wide linear dynamic range from 1 fM to 1 nM and a detection limit of 0.12 fM (S/N=3) was reached with good selectivity. The electrochemical assay method in this work may hold a great potential for clinical diagnosis of genetic disease in the future.
Hydrothermal Synthesis and Characterization of an Apatite‐Type Lanthanum Silicate Ceramic for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Electrolyte Applications
Authors: Jena Paramananda , Patro Pankaj K. , Sinha Amit , Lenka Raja K. , Singh Akhilesh Kumar , Mahata Tarasankar , Sinha Pankaj K.
Published: January 2018

Apatite‐type lanthanum silicate (La10Si6O27; LS) nanopowders are synthesized using a hydrothermal process and used for the electrolyte applications in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs). The synthesized nanopowders are characterized by Rietveld refinement of the X‐ray diffraction (XRD) data, SEM–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), TEM, and dialotometry. The prepared nanopowders can be sintered to near theoretical density at sintering temperature of 1500 °C. Reactivity studies between the synthesized La10Si6O27 material and cathode materials such as La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3−δ (LSCF), Nd2NiO4 (NNO), and Pr2NiO4 (PNO), are carried out by XRD analysis revealing that they do not react. Symmetric cells are fabricated and characterized electrochemically. The area specific resistances for LSCF, NNO, PNO, and PNO‐LS (1:1 (wt %)) measured at 900 οC, are 100, 2.2, 1.8, and 0.5 Ω cm2, respectively. EDS analysis shows that interdiffusion of cations at the cathode–electrolyte interface is not detected for LS/PNO, which is attributed to the low area‐specific resistance values. The results demonstrate that Pr2NiO4 and the composites are promising cathode materials for the apatite‐type lanthanum silicate electrolyte for SOFC applications.
Risk Factors for Eating Disorder Psychopathology within the Treatment Seeking Transgender Population: The Role of Cross‐Sex Hormone Treatment
Authors: Jones Bethany Alice , Haycraft Emma , Bouman Walter Pierre , Brewin Nicola , Claes Laurence , Arcelus Jon
Published: January 2018

Many transgender people experience high levels of body dissatisfaction, which is one of the numerous factors known to increase vulnerability to eating disorder symptoms in the cisgender (non‐trans) population. Cross‐sex hormones can alleviate body dissatisfaction so might also alleviate eating disorder symptoms. This study aimed to explore risk factors for eating disorder symptoms in transgender people and the role of cross‐sex hormones. Individuals assessed at a national transgender health service were invited to participate (N = 563). Transgender people not on cross‐sex hormones reported higher levels of eating disorder psychopathology than people who were. High body dissatisfaction, perfectionism, anxiety symptoms, and low self‐esteem were risk factors for eating psychopathology, but, after controlling for these, significant differences in eating psychopathology between people who were and were not on cross‐sex hormones disappeared. Cross‐sex hormones may alleviate eating disorder psychopathology. Given the high prevalence of transgender identities, clinicians at eating disorder services should assess for gender identity issues. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Computing spatially distributed sediment delivery ratios: inferring functional sediment connectivity from repeat high‐resolution digital elevation models
Authors: Heckmann Tobias , Vericat Damià
Published: January 2018

High‐resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) from repeat LiDAR (light detection and ranging) or SfM (structure from motion) surveys have become an important tool in process geomorphology. The spatial pattern of negative and positive changes of surface elevation on raster DEMs of difference (DoD) can be interpreted in terms of geomorphic processes, and has been used for morphological budgeting. We show how the application of flow routing algorithms and flow accumulation opens new opportunities for the analysis of DoD. By accumulating the values of the DoD along downslope flowpaths delineated on a DEM, these algorithms lend themselves to computing the net balance, i.e. sediment yield (SY), for the contributing area of each cell. Doing the same for the negative subset of the DoD yields a minimum estimate of erosion (E) within the contributing area. The division of SY by E yields (a maximum estimate of) the sediment delivery ratio (SDR), that is the proportion of material eroded within the contributing area of each cell that has been exported from that area. The resulting SDR is a spatially distributed measure of functional sediment connectivity. In this letter, we develop the computationally simple approach by means of an example DoD from a lateral moraine section in the Upper Kaunertal Valley, Austrian Central Alps. We also discuss advantages, assumptions and limitations, and outline potential applications to connectivity research using field‐, laboratory‐, and model‐based DoD. Copyright © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of 1,8‐Cineole and (–)‐Linalool on Functional Brain Activation in a Working Memory Task
Authors: Ambrosch Susanne , Duliban Claudia , Heger Heike , Moser Ewald , Laistler Elmar , Windischberger Christian , Heuberger Eva
Published: January 2018

Several studies have shown the influence of fragrances on attentional functions and affective state in humans. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of the monoterpenoid compounds 1,8‐cineole and (–)‐linalool on the neuronal substrate of working memory, cognitive performance, physiological arousal, and affect. To this end, brain activation was assessed using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) in 69 young healthy adults while they performed a 1‐back task during inhalation or dermal application of one of the fragrances. The functional activation data of 51 subjects were included in the statistical analysis. Each condition was compared with an appropriate placebo condition without any fragrances. In addition, heart rate and respiration rate were measured. Before and after fMRI, affective state was assessed by means of rating scales. The results showed significant functional changes in brain areas related to working memory as a function of both fragrance and administration. Specifically, relative to placebo dermal application of 1,8‐cineole increased brain activation in the frontal cortex, whereas dermal (–)‐linalool increased cerebral blood flow in the basal ganglia. However, no such changes were observed after inhalation. In addition, dermal (–)‐linalool decreased error rate in the working memory task, while 1,8‐cineole did not affect performance. No effects of fragrance administration were detected on physiological arousal or affective state. These findings demonstrate that fragrances differentially affect brain activation and working memory in humans and emphasize the importance of the mode of administration when studying the effects of odorants on human cognition.
Restructuring performance prediction with a rebalanced and clustered support vector machine
Authors: Li Hui , Hong Lu‐Yao , Mo Yu‐Chang , Zhu Bang‐Zhu , Chang Pei‐Chann
Published: January 2018

This paper discusses whether asset restructuring can improve firm performance over decades. Variation in the stock price or the financial ratio is used as the dependent variable of either short‐ or long‐term effectiveness to evaluate the variance both before and after asset restructuring. The result is varied. It is necessary to develop a foresight approach for the mixed situation. This work pioneers to forecast effectiveness of asset restructuring with a rebalanced and clustered support vector machine (RCS). The profitability variation 1 year before and after asset restructuring is used as the dependent variable. The current financial indicators of the year of asset restructuring are used as independent variables. Specially treated listed companies are used as research samples, as they frequently adopt asset restructuring. In modeling, the skew distribution of samples achieving and failing to achieve performance improvement with asset restructuring is handled with rebalancing. The similar experienced knowledge of asset restructuring to the current asset restructuring is filtered out with clustering. With the help from rebalancing and clustering, a support vector machine is constructed for prediction, together with other forecasting models of multivariate discriminant analysis, logistic regression, probit regression, and case‐based reasoning. These models' standalone modes are used as benchmarks. The empirical results demonstrate the applicability of the RCS for forecasting effectiveness of asset restructuring.
Strategies for phasing and imputation in a population isolate
Authors: Herzig Anthony Francis , Nutile Teresa , Babron Marie‐Claude , Ciullo Marina , Bellenguez Céline , Leutenegger Anne‐Louise
Published: January 2018

In the search for genetic associations with complex traits, population isolates offer the advantage of reduced genetic and environmental heterogeneity. In addition, cost‐efficient next‐generation association approaches have been proposed in these populations where only a subsample of representative individuals is sequenced and then genotypes are imputed into the rest of the population. Gene mapping in such populations thus requires high‐quality genetic imputation and preliminary phasing. To identify an effective study design, we compare by simulation a range of phasing and imputation software and strategies. We simulated 1,115,604 variants on chromosome 10 for 477 members of the large complex pedigree of Campora, a village within the established isolate of Cilento in southern Italy. We assessed the phasing performance of identical by descent based software ALPHAPHASE and SLRP, LD‐based software SHAPEIT2, SHAPEIT3, and BEAGLE, and new software EAGLE that combines both methodologies. For imputation we compared IMPUTE2, IMPUTE4, MINIMAC3, BEAGLE, and new software PBWT. Genotyping errors and missing genotypes were simulated to observe their effects on the performance of each software. Highly accurate phased data were achieved by all software with SHAPEIT2, SHAPEIT3, and EAGLE2 providing the most accurate results. MINIMAC3, IMPUTE4, and IMPUTE2 all performed strongly as imputation software and our study highlights the considerable gain in imputation accuracy provided by a genome sequenced reference panel specific to the population isolate.
White matter tauopathy: Transient functional loss and novel myelin remodeling
Authors: Jackson Joshua , Bianco Gabby , Rosa Angelo O , Cowan Katrina , Bond Peter , Anichtchik Oleg , Fern Robert
Published: January 2018

Early white matter (WM) changes are common in dementia and may contribute to functional decline. We here examine this phenomenon in an induced dementia model for the first time. We report a novel and selective form of myelin injury as the first manifestation of tauopathy in the adult central nervous system. Myelin pathology rapidly followed the induction of a P301 tau mutation associated with fronto‐temporal dementia in humans (rTG4510 line). Damage involved focal disruption of the ad‐axonal myelin lamella and internal oligodendrocyte tongue process, followed by myelin remodeling with features of re‐myelination that included myelin thinning and internodal shortening. The evolution of the re‐myelinated phenotype was complete in the molecular layer of the dentate gyrus after 1 month and in the optic nerve (ON) after 9 months of transgene induction and proceeded in the absence of actual demyelination, reactive glial changes or inflammatory response. The initial rapid myelin pathology was associated with loss of WM function and performance decline in a novel recognition test and both these effects largely reversed during the myelin re‐modeling phase. The initial phase of myelin injury was accompanied by disruption of the vesicle population present in the axoplasm of hippocampal and ON axons. Axoplasmic vesicle release is significant for the regulation of myelin plasticity and disruption of this pathway may underlie the myelin damage and remodeling evoked by tauopathy. WM dysfunction early in tauopathy will disorder neural circuits, the current findings suggest this event may make a significant contribution to early clinical deficit in dementia.
Childhood abuse and late‐life depression: Mediating effects of psychosocial factors for early‐ and late‐onset depression
Authors: Wielaard Ilse , Hoyer Mathijs , Rhebergen Didi , Stek Max L. , Comijs Hannie C.
Published: January 2018

Objective

Childhood abuse makes people vulnerable to developing depression, even in late life. Psychosocial factors that are common in late life, such as loneliness or lack of a partner, may explain this association. Our aim was to investigate whether the association between childhood abuse and depression in older adults can be explained by psychosocial factors.

Methods

Cross‐sectional data were derived from the Netherlands Study of Depression in Older Persons (aged 60‐93), including 132 without lifetime depression, 242 persons with an early‐onset depression (<60 years), and 125 with a late‐onset (≥60 years) depression. Childhood abuse (yes/no) and a frequency‐based childhood abuse index were included. Multinomial regression and multivariable mediation analyses were used to examine the association between childhood abuse and the onset of depression, and the influence of loneliness, social network, and partner status.

Results

Multinomial regression analyses showed a significant association between childhood abuse and the childhood abuse index with early‐ and late‐onset depression. Multivariable mediation analyses showed that the association between childhood abuse and early‐onset depression was partly mediated by social network size and loneliness. This was particularly present for emotional neglect and psychological abuse, but not for physical and sexual abuse. No psychosocial mediators were found for the association between childhood abuse and late‐onset depression.

Conclusions

A smaller social network and feelings of loneliness mediate the association between childhood abuse and early‐onset depression in older adults. Our findings show the importance of detecting childhood abuse as well as the age at depression onset and mapping of relevant psychosocial factors in the treatment of late‐life depression.
Medical and economic factors influencing generic drug use in the Japanese public health system: Influencing factors in different populations
Authors: Tachi Tomoya , Saito Kosuke , Esaki Hiroki , Kanematsu Yuta , Yoshida Aki , Sugita Ikuto , Noguchi Yoshihiro , Makino Teppei , Umeda Michi , Yasuda Masahiro , Mizui Takashi , Goto Chitoshi , Teramachi Hitomi
Published: January 2018

Factors influencing generic drug use must be considered when new drug policies are established and initiatives are implemented to promote generic drug use. This study was conducted to elucidate medical and economic factors that influence generic drug use in the Japanese public health system by evaluating the degree of generic drug use via a multivariate analysis. We conducted a retrospective study of medications administered to inpatients at Gifu Municipal Hospital (Japan) from November 1 to 14, 2014. Details of inpatients (age, sex, and type of medical insurance) and the drugs administered (prescribing institution, dispensing pharmacy, price, and class) were assessed. A total of 1409 drugs (original, 639; generic, 770) were analyzed. Multivariate analysis showed significant differences in out‐of‐pocket medical fees [odds ratio (OR), 0.595], drugs prescribed at Gifu Municipal Hospital (OR, 1.811), drugs prepared at a health insurance pharmacy (OR, 1.541), drugs containing the same active substances as in the generic drugs used at Gifu Municipal Hospital (OR, 3.712), and drugs costing ≥30 yen and containing the same active substance/having the same specifications (OR, 0.516). Drugs prescribed at a large key hospital in the community with high adoption rates of generic drugs, drugs containing the same active substances as the generic drugs adopted by the hospital, and drugs prepared at health insurance pharmacies contributed to a more frequent use of generic drugs. By contrast, out‐of‐pocket medical fees and being prescribed expensive drugs contributed to the less frequent use of generic drugs.
HR on board! The implications of human resource expertise on boards of directors for diversity management
Authors: Mullins Frank
Published: January 2018

While prior board of director studies have considered the role of director occupational expertise in areas such as law and finance on the strategic actions of the firm, little consideration has been given to understanding the value that human resource expertise on boards of directors, or board HR expertise, can provide. Drawing upon agency and resource dependence theories, this study investigates the relationship between board HR expertise and the extent to which firms engage in diversity management. Furthermore, the moderating role of two organizational context factors—capital intensity and firm age—are considered, as these can highlight the degree to which firms strategically depend upon human capital. With a sample of 423 U.S. firms listed on the S&P 500 from 2002 to 2006, the findings indicate that firms with board HR expertise have stronger diversity management in comparison to firms lacking board HR expertise. Moreover, the positive effects of board HR expertise on diversity management decreases when firms’ capital intensity or age rises. This highlights the value that HR practitioners can provide in serving on boards of directors, and suggests that the magnitude of board HR experts’ influence hinges upon the firm's level of strategic dependence on human capital.
Breast cancer extent and survival among diabetic women in a Finnish nationwide cohort study
Authors: Murto M.O. , Artama M. , Pukkala E. , Visvanathan K. , Murtola T.J.
Published: January 2018

Breast cancer (BC) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are major health problems. We examined the association between DM and BC stage at diagnosis and subsequent survival in a Finnish cohort of female BC patients. All BC cases (N = 73,170) diagnosed in 1995–2013 with dates and causes of death were identified from the Finnish Cancer Registry. Participation in organized mammography screening was obtained from Mass Inspection Registry. Information on DM diagnoses and background conditions recorded during 1995–2013 were obtained from national Care Register for Health Care and merged to data on medication use from the national Prescription Register. Logistic regression with adjustment for mammography screening and age at BC diagnosis was used to evaluate the risk of advanced stage BC at diagnosis. Cox regression was used to evaluate overall and BC survival. Analyses were adjusted for age, background conditions and mammography screening. Survival analyses were further adjusted for tumor extent, histology and primary treatment. Of the cohort 11,676 (16.0%) had DM. Screening participation did not differ by diabetes. Compared to non‐diabetic women, diabetics had more often locally advanced (odds ratio, OR 1.26; 95% CI 1.18–1.35) or metastatic BC (OR 1.59; 95% CI 1.44–1.75) at diagnosis. During a median follow‐up of 5.8 years after BC diagnosis 10,900 (14.9%) women died of BC. Risk of BC death was higher among diabetic compared to non‐diabetic women (HR 1.36; 95% CI 1.27–1.46). Risk of BC death increased with duration of DM. This supports DM as a risk factor for fatal BC.
The efficacy and safety of anti‐PD‐1/PD‐L1 antibodies combined with chemotherapy or CTLA4 antibody as a first‐line treatment for advanced lung cancer
Authors: Xu Xiaoling , Huang Zhiyu , Zheng Lei , Fan Yun
Published: January 2018

Checkpoint inhibitors show promising efficacy in advanced lung cancer, especially in non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). This meta‐analysis was conducted to explore the therapeutic efficacy and safety of anti‐PD‐1/PD‐L1 antibodies combined with chemotherapy or CTLA4 antibody as first‐line treatments for patients with advanced lung cancer. A systematic search was performed in databases for this system review and quantitative meta‐analysis. Twelve trials were finally enrolled in the meta‐analysis. Our analyses revealed that the combined overall response rate (ORR) and disease control rate (DCR) for immune checkpoint inhibitors combined with chemotherapy for the treatment of NSCLC were 47.0% (95% CI: 34.2%‐60.2%) and 80.9% (95% CI: 69.4%‐88.7%), respectively. The combined ORR and DCR for CTLA4 antibody combined with chemotherapy for the treatment of small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) were 65.4% (61.1%‐69.5%) and 87.6% (84.5%‐90.2%), respectively. The combined six‐month progression‐free survival rates (PFSRs6m) for NSCLC and SCLC were 50.2% (95% CI: 21.9%‐78.4%) and 30.7% (21.2%‐40.3%), respectively, and the OSRs1y were 56.4% (39.1%‐73.7%) and 36.9% (33.3%‐40.5%), respectively. In addition, the combined ORR and DCR for the checkpoint inhibitors plus CTLA4 antibody treatment group in NSCLC were 29.6% (95% CI: 11.4%‐57.8%) and 48.7% (16.8%‐81.7%), respectively. In subgroup analyses, a significant improvement in PFS was observed in NSCLC and SCLC, with a combined hazard ratio and 95% confidence interval of 0.841 (0.737‐0.961) and 0.856 (0.756‐0.968), respectively. In summary, synergistic activity and an acceptable safety profile were observed with checkpoint inhibitor plus chemotherapy combination treatment in lung cancer.
Community member and policy maker priorities in improving maternal health in rural Tanzania
Authors: Webber Gail , Chirangi Bwire , Magatti Nyamusi
Published: January 2018

Objective

To determine community member and policy maker priorities in improving maternal health in rural Tanzania.

Methods

The present participatory action research project was conducted in Rorya District, Mara Region, Tanzania, between November 20 and 25, 2015. A convenience sample of four community and one policy maker discussion groups were held to identify factors impacting on maternal health. The inclusion criterion for community members was a recent personal or partner experience with childbirth, or experience as a village leader. The policy maker participants were enrolled from all members of the District Council Health Management Team.

Results

There was considerable overlap in priorities expressed by community members and policy makers. The most common priorities were to improve the transportation options for women to get to the health facility, the availability of supplies in the health facilities, and healthcare provider attitudes toward women, and to increase the number of skilled healthcare providers. Policy makers also prioritized improved health education of women, improved access to health facilities, and increased power in decision‐making for women.

Conclusions

Community members and policy makers have similar priorities for improving maternal health, which involve both social and structural changes.
Feasibility of and teacher preference for student‐led implementation of the good behavior game in early elementary classrooms
Authors: Donaldson Jeanne M. , Matter Ashley L. , Wiskow Katie M.
Published: January 2018

The Good Behavior Game (GBG) is a classwide group contingency shown to reduce disruptive student behavior. We examined the feasibility of training young students to lead the GBG in one first‐grade and three kindergarten classes. We also examined teacher preference for teacher‐led GBG, student‐led GBG, or no GBG using a concurrent chains procedure. We successfully trained students in all classes to lead the GBG, and the GBG reduced disruptive behavior regardless of who implemented it. Preference for who implemented the game varied across teachers. Results of this study suggest that students as young as kindergarten age can be trained to implement the GBG and that teacher preference should be taken into account when determining how classwide interventions are to be implemented.
Phosphonate‐functionalized poly(β‐amino ester) macromers as potential biomaterials
Authors: Akyol Ece , Tatliyuz Mirac , Demir Duman Fatma , Guven Melek Naz , Acar Havva Yagci , Avci Duygu
Published: January 2018

Biodegradability, hemocompatibility, resistance to protein adsorption, and strong interactions with hydroxyapatite (HAP)‐based tissues such as dentin, enamel, and bone are important properties of phosphorus‐containing biomaterials. Here, novel phosphonate‐functionalized poly(β‐amino ester) (PBAE) macromers are synthesized through aza‐Michael addition of various diacrylates [1,6‐hexanediol diacrylate (HDDA), poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA, Mn = 575), 1,4‐butanediol diacrylate (BDDA), 1,6‐hexanediol ethoxylate diacrylate (HDEDA) and triethylene glycol diacrylate (TEGDA)] and a phosphonate‐containing primary amine (diethyl 2‐aminoethylphosphonate, A1) efficiently without any catalyst; where replacement of A1 with propyl amine (PA) served as control. The macromers, whose molecular weight is ca. 1000–4000 Da as confirmed by both GPC and 1 H‐NMR spectroscopy, are photopolymerized to give biodegradable gels. The degradation behavior and cell interaction of these gels are studied. The degradation rates of the gels can be varied by choice of starting acrylates and the acrylate:amine ratio. Furthermore, the gels showed slightly higher degradability than PA‐based analogs (controls). Except TEGDA and PEGDA‐based ones, all phosphonate‐functionalized PBAE gels supported the attachment of larger number of SaOS‐2 cells than nonphosphonated ones and the best film was found to be the one based on HDEDA‐A1 with balanced hydrophilicity. Degradation products of these films have no significant cytotoxicity except HDDA‐PA. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A: 106A: 1390–1399, 2018.
Patients’ care dependency in mental health care: Development of a self‐report questionnaire and preliminary correlates
Authors: Geurtzen Naline , Keijsers Ger P. J. , Karremans Johan C. , Hutschemaekers Giel J. M.
Published: January 2018

Objectives

Patients’ dependency on the therapist or treatment has received little empirical attention. To examine care dependency, we aimed to develop a theory‐driven questionnaire based on three hypothetical dimensions (passive–submissive dependency; active‐emotional dependency; and lack of perceived alternatives) and to provide a preliminary exploration of several correlates of care dependency.

Method

Care dependency, perceived social support, therapeutic alliance, remoralization, and symptom severity were measured in a large cross‐sectional sample of 742 outpatients with various psychiatric disorders. Test–retest reliability was established in a smaller patient sample.

Results

Findings indicated a reliable questionnaire measuring three unidimensional subscales of care dependency (i.e., submissive dependency, need for contact, and lack of perceived alternatives; α’s .74, .81, and .86 respectively; rt1,t2’s .78, .76, and .80, respectively). These subscales were all positively correlated with each other and with patients’ self‐proclaimed care dependency, but divergent from patients’ trait dependency and symptoms of a dependent personality disorder. Moreover, higher levels of care dependency were correlated with lower levels of remoralization and more symptoms severity, and with a better therapeutic alliance.

Conclusions

A reliable and valid questionnaire was developed to measure patients’ care dependency. Future studies are needed to determine whether care dependency covers an unwanted side‐effect or a crucial ingredient of an effective treatment.
Lessons from literature for psychotherapy practice and research1
Authors: Orlinsky David E.
Published: January 2018

Insights from the study of literature can inform and clarify concepts to guide psychotherapy practice and research. The author offers instances from narrative fiction (Durrell's Alexandria Quartet) and poetry (Hopkins, Baudelaire) to illustrate how the formulation of experience in words that are evocative (vs. ordinary), original (vs. trite), and precise (vs. approximate) are able to capture attention, move the emotions, and challenge beliefs; and how linkages among experiences, vividly and precisely expressed, create and enhance narrative meaning–revealing the inherent relativity of individual meanings and the need to consider the aggregate of relevant perspectives in every interpersonal situation.
Self‐stigma and the intention to seek psychological help online compared to face‐to‐face
Authors: Wallin Emma , Maathz Pernilla , Parling Thomas , Hursti Timo
Published: January 2018

Objectives

The present study aims to investigate the impact of help‐seeking self‐stigma on the preference and intention to seek psychological treatment delivered online compared to face‐to‐face.

Design

This study uses survey data from two Swedish samples. Sample 1 consists of 267 students (78.7% women) with a mean age of 24.5 (SD = 6.1). Sample 2 consists of 195 primary care patients (56.9% women) with a mean age of 45.3 (SD = 17.7).

Results

The number of participants who preferred online treatment was higher if seeking psychological help for a perceived stigmatized problem compared to mental health problems in general. The odds ratios for choosing treatment online over face‐to‐face were 6.41, 95% CI [4.05, 10.14] in Sample 1 and 11.19, 95% CI [5.29, 23.67] in Sample 2. In addition, findings suggest that higher levels of help‐seeking self‐stigma predicted higher intention to seek treatment online compared to face‐to‐face.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that online interventions may facilitate help‐seeking among individuals deterred by stigma.