bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Activity Energy Expenditure and Total Daily Energy Expenditure in Successful Weight Loss Maintainers
Authors: Ostendorf Danielle M. , Caldwell Ann E. , Creasy Seth A. , Pan Zhaoxing , Lyden Kate , Bergouignan Audrey , MacLean Paul S. , Wyatt Holly R. , Hill James O. , Melanson Edward L. , Catenacci Victoria A.
Published: February 2019

Objective

The objective of this study was to compare physical activity energy expenditure (PAEE) and total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) in successful weight loss maintainers (WLM) with normal weight controls (NC) and controls with overweight/obesity (OC).

Methods

Participants were recruited in three groups: WLM (n = 25, BMI 24.1 ± 2.3 kg/m2; maintaining ≥ 13.6‐kg weight loss for ≥ 1 year), NC (n = 27, BMI 23.0 ± 2.0 kg/m2; similar to current BMI of WLM), and OC (n = 28, BMI 34.3 ± 4.8 kg/m2; similar to pre–weight loss BMI of WLM). TDEE was measured using the doubly labeled water method. Resting energy expenditure (REE) was measured using indirect calorimetry. PAEE was calculated as (TDEE − [0.1 × TDEE] − REE).

Results

PAEE in WLM (812 ± 268 kcal/d, mean ± SD) was significantly higher compared with that in both NC (621 ± 285 kcal/d, P < 0.01) and OC (637 ± 271 kcal/d, P = 0.02). As a result, TDEE in WLM (2,495 ± 366 kcal/d) was higher compared with that in NC (2,195 ± 521 kcal/d, P = 0.01) but was not significantly different from that in OC (2,573 ± 391 kcal/d).

Conclusions

The high levels of PAEE and TDEE observed in individuals maintaining a substantial weight loss (−26.2 ± 9.8 kg maintained for 9.0 ± 10.2 years) suggest that this group relies on high levels of energy expended in physical activity to remain in energy balance (and avoid weight regain) at a reduced body weight.
Is Doctor Referral to a Low‐Energy Total Diet Replacement Program Cost‐Effective for the Routine Treatment of Obesity?
Authors: Kent Seamus , Aveyard Paul , Astbury Nerys , Mihaylova Borislava , Jebb Susan A.
Published: February 2019

Objective

The study objective was to estimate the cost‐effectiveness of a commercially provided low‐energy total diet replacement (TDR) program compared with nurse‐led behavioral support.

Methods

A multistate life table model and the weight reduction observed in a randomized controlled trial were used to evaluate the quality‐adjusted life‐years and direct health care costs (in United Kingdom 2017 prices) over a lifetime with TDR versus nurse‐led support in adults who had obesity, assuming that (i) weight returns to baseline over 5 years and (ii) a 1‐kg weight loss is maintained after 5 years following TDR.

Results

The per‐person costs of the TDR and nurse‐led programs were £796 and £34, respectively. The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of TDR was £12,955 (95% CI: £8,082‐£17,827) assuming that all weight lost is regained and £3,203 (£2,580‐£3,825) assuming that a 1‐kg weight loss is maintained after 5 years. TDR was estimated to be more cost‐effective (i.e., lower incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios) in older adults and those with a higher BMI, with little difference by gender.

Conclusions

At current retail prices and with plausible long‐term weight regain trajectories, TDR is projected to be cost‐effective in adults with obesity and could be considered as an option to treat obesity in routine health care settings.
Effect of lorcaserin in different age groups: a post hoc analysis of patients from the BLOOM, BLOSSOM and BLOOM‐DM studies
Authors: Fujioka K. , Malhotra M. , Perdomo C. , Apovian C. M.
Published: February 2019

Introduction

The elderly population is projected to be the fastest growing group of individuals with obesity group in the United States. As such, there is merit in examining factors that contribute to healthy aging and weight management. The effects of newer weight loss medications approved after 2013 have been studied but are not often assessed specifically in older persons.

Methods

This post hoc analysis evaluated the magnitude of weight loss in adults across age quartiles with lorcaserin, a serotonin (5‐HT) 2C receptor agonist indicated as an adjunct to a reduced‐caloric diet and increased physical activity for chronic weight management. Data from three lorcaserin pivotal phase 3 studies were used in this analysis. Data for patients with overweight/obesity without type 2 diabetes (T2D; BLOOM/BLOSSOM; body mass index [BMI] 27.0–29.9 kg/m2 and ≥1 comorbidity or BMI 30.0–45.0 kg/m2) and patients with overweight/obesity with T2D (BLOOM‐DM; BMI 27.0–45.0 kg/m2) were used. Patients were randomized to receive lorcaserin 10 mg twice daily or placebo in addition to diet and exercise for 52 weeks. Age quartiles between the studies differed as the T2D population was on average, 9 years older.

Results

This analysis shows that lorcaserin was associated with improved weight loss relative to placebo regardless of age. Importantly, these results were consistent for patients with and without T2D. Interestingly, the magnitude of weight loss for lorcaserin appeared to increase with increasing age. In patients without T2D, odds of achieving ≥5% and ≥10% reduction in body weight at 52 weeks were significantly higher for patients >36 years. Lorcaserin was well tolerated in all patients across all quartiles including the oldest quartile.

Conclusions

In summary, this post hoc analysis demonstrates that lorcaserin treatment in patients with and without T2D was safe and effective at reducing weight across all age groups analysed. Weight loss appeared to be greater for older patients; additional analyses are warranted to confirm these findings and to better understand the factors for improved weight loss.
A unique phenotype of T‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a patient with GATA2 haploinsufficiency
Authors: Esparza Orlando , Xavier Ana C. , Atkinson T. Prescott , Hill Benjamin C. , Whelan Kimberly
Published: February 2019

Germline or acquired mutations involving the GATA‐binding protein gene (GATA2) have been linked to a variety of clinical conditions. In addition, patients harboring GATA2 mutations have a striking predisposition to develop myeloid malignancies, such as myelodysplastic syndrome or acute myeloid leukemia, but not acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). We report here a unique occurrence of early T‐cell precursor ALL in a young child with GATA2 haploinsufficiency.
Stage at diagnosis for children with blood cancers in Australia: Application of the Toronto Paediatric Cancer Stage Guidelines in a population‐based national childhood cancer registry
Authors: Youlden Danny R. , Gupta Sumit , Frazier A. Lindsay , Moore Andrew S. , Baade Peter D. , Valery Patricia C. , Green Adèle C. , Aitken Joanne F.
Published: February 2019

Background

Information on stage at diagnosis for childhood blood cancers is essential for surveillance but is not available on a population basis in most countries. Our aim was to apply the internationally endorsed Toronto Paediatric Cancer Stage Guidelines to children (<15 years) with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), or non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) and to assess differences in survival by stage at diagnosis.

Procedure

Stage was defined by extent of involvement of the central nervous system (CNS) for ALL and AML and using the Ann Arbor and St Jude‐Murphy systems for HL and NHL, respectively. The study cohort was drawn from the population‐based Australian Childhood Cancer Registry, consisting of children diagnosed with one of these four blood cancers between 2006 and 2014 with follow‐up to 2015. Five‐year observed survival was estimated from the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Stage was assigned to 2201 of 2351 eligible patients (94%), ranging from 85% for AML to 95% for ALL, HL, and NHL. Survival following ALL varied from 94% (95% CI = 93%–95%) for CNS1 disease to 89% (95% CI = 79%–94%) for CNS2 (P = 0.07), whereas for AML there was essentially no difference in survival between CNS− (77%) and CNS+ disease (78%; P = 0.94). Nearly all children with HL survived for five years. There was a trend (P = 0.04) toward worsening survival with higher stage for NHL.

Conclusions

These results provide the first population‐wide picture of the distribution and outcomes for childhood blood cancers in Australia by extent of disease at diagnosis and provide a baseline for future comparisons.
A seawater‐assisted self‐healing metal–catechol polyurethane with tunable mechanical properties
Authors: Xu Shaobin , Sheng Dekun , Liu Xiangdong , Ji Fance , Zhou Yan , Dong Li , Wu Haohao , Yang Yuming
Published: February 2019

Recently, self‐healing polymers have been one of the most intriguing academic fields due to the fact that they can increase their service lives and reduce the amount of waste. Here we designed and synthesized a novel telechelic polyurethane with dopamine (DA) end groups that are coordinated with Ca2+ to form dynamic non‐covalent bonds. The tensile stress of the designed polyurethanes increases with increase in the amount of metal cation added, while the strain at break slightly decreases. Rheological tests show that the ionic coordination between Ca2+ and catechol can dynamically break and recombine under the stimulation of seawater, endowing the polymer with superior self‐healing properties (up to 84% based on toughness). Therefore, the seawater‐triggered self‐healable, super tough polyurethane presented here is very intriguing as it has many potential applications especially in the marine environment. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Antagonistic activity of auxin and cytokinin in shoot and root organs
Authors: Kurepa Jasmina , Shull Timothy E. , Smalle Jan A.
Published: February 2019

The hormones auxin and cytokinin are essential for plant growth and development. Because of the central importance of root and shoot apical meristems in plant growth, auxin/cytokinin interactions have been predominantly analyzed in relation to apical meristem formation and function. In contrast, the auxin/cytokinin interactions during organ growth have remained largely unexplored. Here, we show that a specific interaction between auxin and cytokinin operates in both the root and the shoot where it serves as an additional determinant of plant development. We found that auxin at low concentrations limits the action of cytokinin. An increase in cytokinin level counteracts this inhibitory effect and leads to an inhibition of auxin signaling. At higher concentrations of both hormones, these antagonistic interactions between cytokinin and auxin are absent. Thus, our results reveal a bidirectional and asymmetrical interaction of auxin and cytokinin beyond the bounds of apical meristems. The relation is bidirectional in that both hormones exert inhibitory effects on each other's signaling mechanisms. However, this relation is also asymmetrical because under controlled growth conditions, auxin present in nontreated plants suppresses cytokinin signaling, whereas the reverse is not the case.
Gas barrier and mechanical properties of a single‐layer silicon oxide film prepared by roll‐to‐roll PECVD system
Authors: Cho Seong‐Keun , Cho Tae‐Yeon , Lee Won Jae , Um Min Seop , Choi Woo Jin , Lee Jae‐Heung , Ryu Juwhan , Choa Sung‐Hoon
Published: February 2019

We presented a single‐layer silicon oxide (SiOx) barrier film with excellent moisture barrier performance and flexibility. High quality, continuous, and large‐area barrier film was deposited on polyethyleneterephthalate substrate using a roll‐to‐roll PECVD for large‐scale production. The effects of the reaction gas flow ratio of N2O/SiH4 (R) on the characteristics of the SiOx film were systematically analyzed in terms of the optical properties, surface roughness, film density, hardness, chemical composition, and water vapor transmission rate. The SiOx film exhibited the best film density, hardness, surface roughness, and superior barrier performance of 1.6 × 10−3 g · m−2 · d−2 at R = 1.5. The SiOx barrier film also exhibited excellent flexibility which bent up to 2 mm and withstood the repeated bending of 10 000 cycles.
Analysis of upper and middle segment esophageal setup errors and planning of target margins based on cone beam computed tomography for esophageal radiation with immobilized thermoplastic film
Authors: Yong Shi , Ying Chen , Fen Zhang , Ling Li , Yanli Liu , Qinying Yan , Min Zhang , Chengjian Li , Dong Li
Published: February 2019

Objective

To evaluate the setup errors in patients with upper and middle segment esophageal cancer who underwent cone beam computed tomography immobilized by thermoplastic film, and to probe the margins using the esophageal clinical target volume (CTV) in three directions.

Methods

A total of 60 patients with upper and middle segment esophageal cancer were enrolled. All patients were immobilized by thermoplastic film and underwent cone beam computed tomography at the first, 10th, and 20th treatment after positioning, respectively. These cone beam computed tomography images were registered to the planning computed tomography to determine setup errors in translational and rotational directions. Then, CTV margins were calculated from the systematic and random errors.

Results

Setup errors on x (left–right), y (superior–inferior), and z (anteroposterior) translational directions were 2.93 ± 2.24, 3.81 ± 2.31, and 2.41 ± 1.65 mm, and on θ (pitch degree), ϕ (roll degree), and ψ (yaw degree) rotational directions were 2.08 ± 1.32°, 1.53 ± 1.03°, and 1.65 ± 1.14°, respectively. The margins from CTV were 7.35, 8.09, and 5.94 mm in the x, y, and z directions, respectively. In the y and z directions, translational errors were significantly correlated with ϕ and ψ degree rotational errors (Pearson = –0.511, –0.503, P < 0.05). In the interfraction, only on the z direction, setup changes were considered significantly correlated with ψ degree (Pearson = –0.571, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

In patients with upper and middle segment esophageal cancer immobilized by thermoplastic film, the margins from CTV were recommended to be not less than 7.39, 7,83, and 5.91 mm in x, y, and z directions, respectively. The position immobilization method and positioning workflow should be improved further to reduce the influence of breathing movement on setup errors.
Critical flux Richardson number for Kolmogorov turbulence enabled by TKE transport
Authors: Freire Livia S. , Chamecki Marcelo , Bou‐Zeid Elie , Dias Nelson L.
Published: February 2019

In stably stratified flows, the flux Richardson number Ri

f
is a measure of the ratio between buoyancy destruction and shear production of turbulent kinetic energy (TKE). In flows with local equilibrium between shear production, buoyancy destruction and dissipation of TKE, the critical Ri

f,c
≈0.21 corresponds to the limit above which Kolmogorov turbulence can no longer be sustained. Analysis of the TKE and velocity variance budget equations shows that the critical Ri

f,c
is increased by the presence of positive turbulent transport of TKE. This situation is observed, for example, in the roughness sublayer above plant canopies, as demonstrated using field data from the Amazon rainforest.
Determination of Phthalate Esters in Water and Coffee by Solid‐Phase Microextraction Using Vinyl Terminated Imidazolium Based Ionic Liquid Grafted on Graphene Oxide Coatings
Authors: Tashakkori Paniz , Erdem Pelin , Merdivan Melek , Bozkurt Serap Seyhan
Published: February 2019

A series of novel ionic liquids (1‐(3‐aminopropyl)‐3‐vinyl imidazolium bromide/tetrafluoroborate) grafted onto graphene oxide‐ coated stainless‐steel wires by a sol‐gel technique were fabricated and used as solid‐phase microextraction (SPME) fibers for the determination of phthalate esters (PAEs) in water and coffee by a direct immersion‐SPME‐gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (DI‐SPME‐GC‐MS) method. The effect of pH, stirring rate, ionic strength, extraction temperature and extraction time were examined for each home‐made fiber. Under optimized conditions, the proposed method displayed wide linearity (0.01‐500 μg L−1), good repeatability (0.26‐13.30%; n=3), and low limit of detections (LODs, 5–30 ng L−1). The home‐made fibers had good durability and could be used for more than 120 sorption/desorption cycles. The fiber‐to‐fiber reproducibility was in the range of 1.53‐4.53% for 100 μg L−1. The method was successfully performed on tap water, seawater and coffee samples with recoveries from 87.6 to 100.7%. The extraction efficiencies of home‐made SPME fibers were satisfactorily comparable with those of PA and CAR/PDMS commercial SPME fibers.
C59X Heterofullerenes (X=N, B, Si, P and S) as Catalysts for Reduction of N2O: A Comparative DFT Study
Authors: Esrafili Mehdi D. , Heydari Safa
Published: February 2019

Using DFT calculations, the adsorption behavior of N2O and CO molecules is studied over some C59X heterofullerenes (X=N, B, P, Si and S). The adsorption energies of N2O over C59X fullerenes are in the range of −0.08 to −1.73 eV (at the PBE/DNP level), while those of CO molecule range from −0.06 to −0.91 eV. Our results indicate that the tendency of C59B and C59Si to adsorb N2O and CO molecules is much larger than that of other heterofullerenes. The activation energy for the reduction of N2O by CO over C59Si is calculated to be only 0.15 eV. According to these results, C59Si can be regarded as a promising metal‐free catalyst for low‐temperature reduction of N2O.
Metal‐Free C‐H Thiomethylation of Quinones Using Iodine and DMSO and Study of Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Rajasekar Sakthidevi , Krishna T. P. Adarsh , Tharmalingam Nagendran , Andivelu Ilangovan , Mylonakis Eleftherios
Published: February 2019

A novel, transition metal‐free, molecular iodine mediated method for thiomethylation of quinones, using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a benign thiomethylating agent is described. This greener reaction protocol leads to selective mono thiomethylation in low to high yield and tolerates a range of substituent groups. Preliminary antibacterial evaluation of thiomethylated quinones, carried out against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus shows promising results. One of the compound 3′‐methyl‐6‐(methylthio)‐[1,1′‐biphenyl]‐2,5‐dione exhibited antimicrobial activity even against clinical isolates of S. aureus and vancomycin‐intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA).
One‐Pot Synthesis of Homogeneous EuF3 Nanoplates: A Near‐Ultraviolet Light‐Induced Red‐Emitting Bifunctional Platform for in vitro Cell Imaging and Solid‐State Lighting
Authors: Du Peng , Liu Ying , Kim Yeon‐Ju , Yu Jae Su
Published: February 2019

We reported a new approach to prepare the homogenous EuF3 nanoplates and discussed their potential applications. Upon 396 nm excitation, the EuF3 nanoplates exhibited the visible emissions with high color purity of 84.7%. The monitored photoluminescence emission spectrum indicated that the Eu3+ ions took the high symmetry positions in the host lattices which was further confirmed via the theoretical calculation based on the Judd‐Ofelt theory. The thermal quenching performance of the EuF3 nanoplates was analyzed by the temperature‐dependent photoluminescence emission spectra and the activation energy was decided to be 0.28 eV. With the aid of the near‐ultraviolet chip and EuF3 nanoplates, a red‐emitting light‐emitting diode device was prepared so as to identify the feasibility of the EuF3 nanoplates for solid‐state lighting. Additionally, the cell viability of the EuF3 nanoplates as well as their fluorescence imaging behaviors in the A549 lung cancer cells was also investigated. The observed results demonstrated that the EuF3 nanoplates were bifunctional platform for in vitro cell imaging and solid‐state lighting.
Hierarchical Porous Carbon Prepared through Sustainable CuCl2 Activation of Rice Husk for High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Tian YongXia , Xiao Chengyuan , Yin Jian , Zhang Wenli , Bao JinPeng , Lin Haibo , Lu Haiyan
Published: February 2019

Porous carbon material has been widely used as the electrode material for supercapacitor owing to distinctive advantages of high electrical conductivity, low cost and availability at ease. In this study, rice‐husk‐derived porous carbon (RHPC) is successfully prepared by employing a new activation agent copper chloride (CuCl2). The morphology and porous structure of RHPC are characterized by scanning electron microscope and N2 adsorption/desorption. The electrochemical performances of RHPC are investigated by alvanostatic charge‐discharge, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The RHPC possesses high porosity and large specific surface area. When used as supercapacitor electrode materials, RHPC exhibits high specific capacitance of 165.23 F⋅g−1 at a current density of 0.5 A⋅g−1, excellent cycle stability and noticeable high‐rate capacity of 151.69 F⋅g−1 even at a high current density of 20 A⋅g−1. More importantly, the preparation of this CuCl2 activator is facile and low‐cost. Besides, the recyclability meet the requirements of environmental concerns.
Concise Pyrimido[4,5‐d]pyrimidine Synthesis via Direct Annulation of N‐Uracil Amidines with Benzaldehydes Under Transition Metal Free Conditions
Authors: Debnath Pradip , Sahu Gouranga , De Utpal C.
Published: February 2019

A novel and concise route towards the synthesis of pyrimido[4,5‐d]pyrimidines via a direct annulation reaction of N‐uracil amidines with benzaldehydes under transition metal free conditions has been described. The requisite precursors N‐uracil amidines are obtained via SNAE reaction on 6‐chlorouracil with amidines. A series of pyrimido[4,5‐d]pyrimidines has been synthesized in good to excellent yields by the direct annulation of N‐uracil amidines with benzaldehydes using Cs2CO3 as base and molecular oxygen as oxidant in tBuOH at 100 0C. This synthetic protocol has a number of advantages such as‐ operational simplicity, use of green oxidant, avoidance of transition metal catalysts or ligands, and easy accessibility of the starting materials, making it a highly practical approach to access various pyrimido[4,5‐d]pyrimidines of biological interest.
Heterogeneous Copper‐Catalyzed Cascade Three‐Component Reaction Towards Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines: Efficient and Practical One‐Pot Synthesis of Alpidem
Authors: Liao Yang , Huang Bin , Huang Xue , Cai Mingzhong
Published: February 2019

The heterogeneous cascade three‐component reaction of 2‐aminopyridines, aldehydes and terminal alkynes was achieved in toluene at 120 °C in the presence of 3‐(2‐aminoethylamino)propyl‐functionalized MCM‐41‐immobilized copper(I) complex [MCM‐41‐2 N‐CuCl] (5 mol%) and copper(II) complex [MCM‐41‐2N−Cu(OTf)2] (5 mol%), yielding a wide variety of imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridines in mostly good to excellent yields. These two heterogeneous copper catalysts can be facilely prepared via a simple procedure from readily available and inexpensive reagents, and recovered by filtration and recycled up to eight times with almost consistent activity.
Review of Novel Passivation Techniques for Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Kim Jincheol , Ho‐Baillie Anita , Huang Shujuan
Published: February 2019

Perovskite solar cells contain various defects within the perovskite absorber and the corresponding interfaces, affecting device performance and stability. Fortunately, there have been tremendous efforts in advancing passivation techniques contributing to high‐efficiency perovskite solar cell with improved stability. Here, the state‐of‐the‐art passivation approaches for each layer of the perovskite cell with the aim of improving carrier extraction, reducing carrier recombination, and/or improving cell stability are reviewed. Passivation of the electron transport layer can improve the stability of perovskite solar cells by reducing trap states or by physically separating the transport layer from contacting perovskite. Controlling the amount of PbI2 in the perovskite precursor has been found to be effective in passivating defect states at the grain boundaries and on the surface. Additives such as elemental iodine, organic surfactants, and Group 1 metal compounds incorporated in perovskite precursors have been reported to passivate recombination trap centers. These approaches have also contributed to improved energy band alignment between carrier transport layers and perovskite absorber improving device performance. An effective strategy to improve moisture stability is the use of 2D perovskites or hydrophobic large cation molecules forming 2D or quasi‐2D phases at grain boundaries or film surfaces providing passivation and preventing moisture ingress.
On selection of semiparametric spatial regression models
Authors: Wang Guannan , Wang Jue
Published: February 2019

In this paper, we focus on variable selection techniques for a class of semiparametric spatial regression models, which allow one to study effects of explanatory variables in the presence of spatial information. The spatial smoothing problem in the nonparametric part is tackled by means of bivariate splines over triangulation, which is able to deal efficiently with data distributed over irregularly shaped regions. In addition, we develop a unified procedure for variable selection to identify significant covariates under a double penalization framework, and we show that the penalized estimators enjoy the “oracle” property. The proposed method can simultaneously identify nonzero spatially distributed covariates and solve the problem of “leakage” across complex domains of the functional spatial component. To estimate the standard deviations of the proposed estimators for the coefficients, a sandwich formula is developed as well. In the end, Monte Carlo simulation examples and a real data example are provided to illustrate the proposed methodology.
Study of Arrowroot Starch‐Based Polymer Electrolytes and Its Application in MFC
Authors: Tiwari Tuhina , Kumar Manindra , Yadav Madhavi , Srivastava Neelam
Published: February 2019

Microbial fuel cell (MFC), a biochemical‐catalyzed system which generates electricity by oxidizing biodegradable organic matter in the presence of either fermentative bacteria or enzymes, is a growing technology for electricity generation. It is a dual functioning technology which not only generates electricity but also treats wastewater, thereby addressing two major problems of the present world. As the technology is an emerging one, there are numerous challenges to be confronted. One of the vital components of the MFC is the proton exchange membrane (PEM), and it is due to the high cost of this membrane that MFC technology is still running at laboratory scale. In the present study, a starch‐based electrolyte film is used as PEM. Electrochemical behavior exhibited by the starch electrolyte is studied and on using it as PEM in MFC it is found to exhibit power density of ≈16 mW m−2 and the current density of ≈85 mA m−2. One of the main advantages of the material is its cost which is approximately INR ≈940 per square foot compared to INR 70 000 per square foot of Nafion (the most popular membrane).
Algebraic surfaces, four-folds and moonshine
Authors: Lee Kimyeong , Sarkis Matthieu
Published: February 2019

Abstract

The aim of this note is to point out an interesting fact related to the elliptic genus of complex algebraic surfaces in the context of Mathieu moonshine. We also discuss the case of 4-folds.
Alteration in sleep architecture and electroencephalogram as an early sign of Alzheimer's disease preceding the disease pathology and cognitive decline
Authors: Zhang Feng , Zhong Rujia , Li Song , Fu Zhenfa , Wang Renfei , Wang Tianxiao , Huang Zhili , Le Weidong
Published: February 2019

Objective

The present work aims to evaluate the significance of sleep disturbance and electroencephalogram (EEG) alteration in the early stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Background and Rationale

Sleep disturbance is common in patients with AD. It is not known if it can occur at the early stage of AD and if EEG recording may help identify the early sign of the disease.

Historical Evolution

Sleep disturbance in AD has generally been considered as late consequence of the neurodegenerative process. A growing body of evidence has suggested that the sleep disturbance may occur at the early stage of AD.

Updated Hypothesis

Based on the previous epidemiologic studies and our recent findings, we propose that sleep disturbance may play an important role in the development of AD. Sleep EEG changes may serve as a valuable early sign for AD in the prepathological stage.

Early Experimental Data

Our data suggested that AβPPswe/PS1ΔE9 transgenic AD mice at preplaque stage (3 and 4 months of age) exhibited different profile of sleep architecture and sleep EEG, which preceded the cognitive deficit and AD neuropathology.

Future Experiments and Validation Studies

Future experiments should focus on sleep EEG changes in patients with mild cognitive impairment and early stage of AD. Follow‐up studies in high‐risk population of the elderly are equally important. In addition, the exact molecular mechanism underlying the sleep disturbance should be thoroughly investigated.

Major Challenges for the Hypothesis

Studies on human participants with early stage of AD, especially the follow‐up studies on the presymptomatic elderly in a large population, are difficult and time‐consuming.

Linkage to Other Major Theories

Our hypothesis may link previous theories to establish a bidirectional relationship between sleep disorders and AD, which may finally form a new schematic mechanism to understand the disease pathogenesis and disease progression.
Imams’ Experience With and Response to Mosque-Goers With OCD Scrupulosity
Authors: Jones Mairwen K. , Harris Lynne M. , Esfahani Rajezi Sepideh
Published: February 2019

The experience of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms that have a religious theme is common. Recent research has found that religious participants with religious OCD symptoms frequently turn to religious advisors, such as imams or clergy, for help to understand and alleviate their symptoms. As such, the advice provided by imams or clergy may have an important impact on the response of the person seeking help. This study examined the attitudes, beliefs and experiences of 64 Muslim imams with mosque-goers who had religious OCD symptoms, particularly scrupulosity. This study also examined imams’ familiarity with first-line psychological treatments for OCD such as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). Sunni imams from Australia and Shia imams from Iran completed an online survey based on the research of Deacon, Vincent, and Zhang (2012), which was conducted with Christian clergy in the United States. Results showed that the majority of imams were unfamiliar with scrupulosity as a possible symptom of a mental health problem, such as OCD, and with ERP as a recognised treatment for OCD. While 37% of participants reported having been approached by mosque-goers for help with scrupulosity, only 9% referred mosque-goers to mental health professionals, and only one imam reported having referred a mosque-goer for ERP. Sunni imams located in Australia were more likely to provide advice inconsistent with the ERP approach and were also significantly less likely than Shia imams located in Iran to recommend referral to a mental health professional who was not affiliated with their own religious denomination. Finally, Sunni imams had significantly higher scores than Shia imams on Thought Action Fusion (TAF) subscales. Results of multiple regression analysis revealed that TAF explained a considerable amount of the variance related to ERP-inconsistent advice. Research implications and limitations are discussed.
DOXASTIC RESPONSIBILITY, GUIDANCE CONTROL, AND OWNERSHIP OF BELIEF
Authors: Osborne Robert Carry
Published: February 2019

The contemporary debate over responsibility for belief is divided over the issue of whether such responsibility requires doxastic control, and whether this control must be voluntary in nature. It has recently become popular to hold that responsibility for belief does not require voluntary doxastic control, or perhaps even any form of doxastic ‘control’ at all. However, Miriam McCormick has recently argued that doxastic responsibility does in fact require quasi-voluntary doxastic control: “guidance control,” a complex, compatibilist form of control. In this paper, I pursue a negative and a positive task. First, I argue that grounding doxastic responsibility in guidance control requires too much for agents to be the proper targets for attributions of doxastic responsibility. I will focus my criticisms on three cases in which McCormick's account gives the intuitively wrong verdict. Second, I develop a modified conception of McCormick's notion of “ownership of belief,” which I call Weak Doxastic Ownership. I employ this conception to argue that responsibility for belief is possible even in the absence of guidance control. In doing so, I argue that the notion of doxastic ownership can do important normative work in grounding responsibility for belief without being subsumed under or analyzed in terms of the notion of doxastic control.
On constant vorticity water flows in the -plane approximation
Authors: Martin Calin Iulian
Published: February 2019

We consider here three-dimensional water flows in the $\unicode[STIX]{x1D6FD}$-plane approximation. In a quite general setting we show that the only flow exhibiting a constant vorticity vector is the stationary flow with vanishing velocity field and flat free surface.
Spirulina supplementation in a mouse model of diet-induced liver fibrosis reduced the pro-inflammatory response of splenocytes
Authors: Pham Tho X. , Lee Yoojin , Bae Minkyung , Hu Siqi , Kang Hyunju , Kim Mi-Bo , Park Young-Ki , Lee Ji-Young
Published: February 2019

Treatment of liver fibrosis is very limited as there is currently no effective anti-fibrotic therapy. Spirulina platensis (SP) is a blue-green alga that is widely supplemented in healthy foods. The objective of this study was to determine whether SP supplementation can prevent obesity-induced liver fibrosis in vivo. Male C57BL/6J mice were randomly assigned to a low-fat or a high-fat (HF)/high-sucrose/high-cholesterol diet or an HF diet supplemented with 2·5 % SP (w/w) (HF/SP) for 16 or 20 weeks. There were no significant differences in body weight, activity, energy expenditure, serum lipids or glucose tolerance between mice on HF and HF/SP diets. However, plasma alanine aminotransferase level was significantly reduced by SP at 16 weeks. Expression of fibrotic markers and trichrome stains showed no differences between HF and HF/SP. Splenocytes isolated from HF/SP fed mice had lower inflammatory gene expression and cytokine secretion compared with splenocytes from HF-fed mice. SP supplementation did not attenuate HF-induced liver fibrosis. However, the expression and secretion of inflammatory genes in splenocytes were significantly reduced by SP supplementation, demonstrating the anti-inflammatory effects of SP in vivo. Although SP did not show appreciable effect on the prevention of liver fibrosis in this mouse model, it may be beneficial for other inflammatory conditions.
PROCLUS, PORPHYRY, ATTICUS AND THE MAKER? REMARKS ON PROCLUS, IN TI. II, 1.393.31–394.5 DIEHL (ATTICUS, FR. 28)
Authors: Van Riel Gerd
Published: February 2019

At In Platonis Timaeum Commentarii (= In Ti.) II, 1.393.31–394.5 Diehl (which is Atticus, fr. 28 in the edition of Des Places), Proclus follows Porphyry's inferences against the theory of Atticus, focussing more precisely on the fact that the latter's account of the principles does not correspond to the views expounded by Plato himself. In Diehl's text, based on a limited selection of primary manuscript-witnesses, the introductory phrase to this criticism contains a reference to the maker (ποιητής), which cannot easily be explained within the context. On the basis of a new examination of the manuscript tradition, and of the context of the passage, we will present a new conjecture that allows one to avoid the problems involved in Diehl's reading of the text.
Social relationships, neighbourhood poverty and cumulative biological risk: findings from a multi-racial US urban community
Authors: LeBrón Alana M. W. , Schulz Amy J. , Mentz Graciela B. , Israel Barbara A. , Stokes Carmen A.
Published: February 2019

Prior research has established associations between neighbourhood poverty and cumulative biological risk (CBR). CBR is conceptualized as indicative of the effects of stress on biological functioning, and is linked with increased morbidity and mortality. Studies suggest that supportive social relationships may be health protective, and may erode under conditions of poverty. This study examines whether social relationships are inversely associated with CBR and whether associations between neighbourhood poverty and CBR are mediated through social relationships. Data were from a stratified probability sample community survey (n=919) of residents of Detroit, Michigan, USA (2002–2003) and from the 2000 US Census. The outcome variable, CBR, included anthropometric and clinical measures. Independent variables included four indicators of social relationships: social support, neighbourhood satisfaction, social cohesion and neighbourhood participation. Multilevel models were used to test both research questions, with neighbourhood poverty and social relationships included at the block group level, and social relationships also included at the individual level, to disentangle individual from neighbourhood effects. Findings suggest some associations between social relationships and CBR after accounting for neighbourhood poverty and individual characteristics. In models that accounted for all indicators of social relationships, individual-level social support was associated with greater CBR (β=0.12, p=0.04), while neighbourhood-level social support was marginally significantly protective of CBR (within-neighbourhood: β=−0.36, p=0.06; between-neighbourhood: β=−0.24, p=0.06). In contrast, individual-level neighbourhood satisfaction was protective of CBR (β=−0.10, p=0.02), with no within-neighbourhood (β=0.06, p=0.54) or between-neighbourhood association (β=−0.04, p=0.38). Results indicate no significant association between either social cohesion or neighbourhood participation and CBR. Associations between neighbourhood poverty and CBR were not mediated by social relationships. These findings suggest that neighbourhood-level social support and individual-level neighbourhood satisfaction may be health protective and that neighbourhood poverty, social support and neighbourhood satisfaction are associated with CBR through independent pathways.
The impact of cinnarizine and griseofulvin on juvenile and adult stages of Schistosoma mansoni
Authors: Sarhan R.M. , Thabet H.S. , Nazeer J.T. , William S.
Published: February 2019

Schistosomiasis affects millions globally. There is no vaccine, and treatment depends entirely on praziquantel (PZQ). Field isolates exhibit reduced susceptibility to PZQ, and resistance has been experimentally induced, suggesting that reliance on a single treatment is particularly dangerous. The present study investigated the value of cinnarizine and griseofulvin against Schistosoma mansoni through their in vitro effects on adult worms and oviposition as well as in vivo evaluation in early and late infection, compared to PZQ, in a preliminary experimental model. In vitro, both cinnarizine and griseofulvin showed uncoupling, sluggish worm movement and complete absence of ova at 100 μg/ml. In early infection, cinnarizine showed a significant reduction in the number of porto-mesenteric couples compared to the griseofulvin and control groups, a finding similar to PZQ. Remarkably, cinnarizine significantly exceeded PZQ and griseofulvin in reducing the total worm burden. In late infection, cinnarizine and griseofulvin showed results similar to PZQ by significantly reducing the numbers of hepatic and porto-mesenteric couples and total worm burden compared to controls. Cinnarizine performed better than griseofulvin by reducing hepatic and intestinal ovum counts, and it led to complete disappearance of the first two immature stages. The current work suggests the possibility of using cinnarizine and griseofulvin, mainly in late S. mansoni infection, especially cinnarizine, which showed similar results to PZQ and surpassed it in early infection. Further studies are required to elucidate their exact mechanisms of action and particularly their synergistic effect with PZQ.
New breeding site and records of king penguins (Aptenodytes patagonicus) on King George Island (South Shetlands, Western Antarctic)
Authors: Gryz Piotr , Gerlée Alina , Korczak-Abshire Małgorzata
Published: February 2019

The king penguin (Aptenodytes patagonicus) is a pelagic species that breeds on sub-Antarctic islands relatively close to the Antarctic polar front. After a significant decline at the beginning of the twentieth century because of widespread exploitation by sealers, the species’ numbers are currently increasing, with observed local fluctuations. There has also been an increase in the number of sightings in the Antarctic, and recorded breeding attempts in this area. Here we present the history of observations of king penguins from 1977 to 2017 in two Antarctic Specially Protected Areas: ASPA No. 128 Western Shore of Admiralty Bay, and No. 151 Lions Rump, King George Island, South Shetland Islands (Western Antarctic). Additionally, we report on a new breeding site at Lions Rump, the third known breeding site for this species in the South Shetland Islands. Together with observations from other parts of the archipelago, the information in this study supports earlier suggestions of a southerly expansion of this species and of attempts to colonise the Antarctic Peninsula region.
IN QUEST OF COMFORT: CARLO LODOLI, THEORIST OF ORGANIC ARCHITECTURE AND FURNITURE DESIGNER
Authors: Cellauro Louis
Published: February 2019

Lodoli's subversive doctrine of truth-to-material was the most original and influential aspect of his approach to architecture. His concept of organic architecture, the main focus of this paper, has been less studied and is accordingly less well understood, although it was an important facet of his design theory. Lodoli applied his novel approach most obviously to the design of furnishings, particularly of chairs, but also extended it to architecture in a project for the refurbishment of the pilgrims’ hostel at San Francesco della Vigna, in Venice, the only instance in which he put his architectural ideas into practice. In Lodoli's thinking, great importance was given to the notion of comfort, and in this respect he shared new concerns common among French architects and furniture makers of the Enlightenment. Indeed, his ideas about architecture and design owe much to the influence of the Enlightenment, with its emphasis on reason, truth and universal criticism.
Transcatheter left atrial decompression in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy: bridging to cardiac transplantation or recovery
Authors: Bauer Anna , Khalil Markus , Schmidt Dorle , Recla Sabine , Bauer Jürgen , Esmaeili Anoosh , Penford Gemma , Akintuerk Hakan , Schranz Dietmar
Published: February 2019

Background

Left atrial congestion results from backward failure in dilated cardiomyopathy. We aimed to evaluate feasibility and efficacy of percutaneous atrioseptostomy to create a restrictive atrial septum defect in management of dilated cardiomyopathy.

Methods and results

From June 2009 to December 2016, 27 interventions comprised left atria decompressions in 22 dilated cardiomyopathy patients; 9 females; age: 24 days to 36.9 years; weight: 3–50 kg; NYHA-/Ross class IV (n=16). Mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 21.5±9.7% and brain natriuretic peptide was 2291±1992 pg/ml. Dilated cardiomyopathy was classified as chronic (n=9); acute (n=1) myocarditis; idiopathic (n=5); left ventricular non-compaction (n=4); mitochondriopathy, pacemaker induced, and arrhythmogenic (n=3). Atrioseptostomy was concomitantly performed with myocardial biopsies 6.5 days (±11.7) after admission (n=11). Trans-septal puncture was used in 18 patients; foramen ovale dilatation was done in four patients. Mean balloon size was 11 mm (range 7–14 mm); total procedure time was 133±38 minutes. No procedural complications were observed. Mean left atrial pressure decreased from 15.8±6.8 to 12.2±4.8 mmHg (p=0.005), left/right atrial pressure gradient from 9.6±5.6 to 5±3.5 mmHg; brain natriuretic peptide (n=18) decreased from 1968±1606 to 830±1083 pg/ml (p=0.01). One patient unsuitable for heart transplantation died at home despite additionally performed pulmonary artery banding and three further left atrial decompressions; five patients were bridged to transplantation, two died afterwards. Functional recovery occurred in the remaining 14 patients and in six after additional pulmonary artery banding. No patient required assist device.

Conclusions

Percutaneous left atrial decompression is an age-independent, effective palliation treating patients with dilated cardiomyopathy.
INFORMATION VALUE OF THE INTEREST RATE AND THE ZERO LOWER BOUND
Authors: Lee Sang Seok
Published: February 2019

Why is a zero lower bound episode long-lasting and disruptive? This paper proposes the interruption of information flow from the central bank’s interest rate decision to the private sector as a channel by which the destabilizing effect of the zero lower bound constraint on the nominal interest rate is amplified. This mechanism is incorporated into the new Keynesian model by modifying its information structure. This paper shows that the information loss at the zero lower bound can increase (a) the duration of the zero lower bound episodes and (b) the size of deflation and output gap loss. The result in this paper demonstrates that enhanced information sharing by the central bank about the state of the economy can be effective at alleviating the cost of the zero lower bound.
Naturally occurring rare sugars are free radical scavengers and can ameliorate endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Mooradian Arshag D. , Haas Michael J. , Onstead-Haas Luisa , Tani Yuma , Iida Tetsuo , Tokuda Masaaki
Published: February 2019

Abstract. Because of potential use of naturally occurring rare sugars as sweeteners, their effect on superoxide (SO), hydroxyl and peroxyl radicals and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress was examined in human coronary artery endothelial cells. SO generation was measured using the superoxide-reactive probe 2-methyl-6-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3,7-dihydroimidazo[1,2-A]pyrazin-3-one hydrochloride chemiluminescence. Phycoerythrin fluorescence based assay was used to monitor scavenging activity of sugars in the presence of hydroxyl or peroxyl radical generators [CuSO4 and azobis (2 amidinopropane) hydrochloride respectively]. Measurements were made in relative light units (RLU). ER stress was measured with an ER stress-sensitive secreted alkaline phosphatase (SAP) assay and by Western blot analysis of the expression and phosphorylation of key proteins in the unfolded protein response, namely CHOP47, eIF2α and JNK1. D-Glucose (27.5 mM) increased SO generation (5536 ± 283 vs. 2963 ± 205 RLU in controls; p < 0.0007) and decreased SAP secretion (73411 ± 3971 vs. 101749 ± 7652 RLU in controls; p < 0.005) indicating ER stress. Treatment of cells with 5.5 or 27.5 mM of D-allulose, D-allose, D-sorbose and D-tagatose reduced SO generation (all p < 0.05). This could not be attributed to inhibition of cellular uptake of dextrose by the rare sugars tested. In a cell free system, all four rare sugars had significantly more SO, hydroxyl and peroxyl radical scavenging activity compared to dextrose (all p < 0.01). Treatment of cells with rare sugars reduced ER stress. However, unlike other three rare sugars, D-sorbose did not inhibit tunicamycin-induced eIF2α phosphorylation. Naturally occurring rare sugars are free radical scavengers and can reduce ER stress.