bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glycated Albumin Measurement Using an Electrochemical Aptasensor for Screening and Monitoring of Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Bunyarataphan Sasinee , Dharakul Tararaj , Fucharoen Suthat , Paiboonsukwong Kittiphong , Japrung Deanpen
Published: July 2019

Glycated albumin (GHSA) is a medium‐term glycaemic control marker of diabetes, which can be used as an alternative to or together with glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c). Currently available methods for the measurement of GHSA are limited in clinical practice because they involve slow and cumbersome processes of sample preparation, proteolytic digestion, and thermal incubation, and they suffer from limited analytical performance, and/or a lack of normalization to total albumin (HSA) levels. In this paper, we developed a simple electrochemical biosensor to measure GHSA values based on two DNA aptamers that specifically bind to GHSA and HSA. We used square wave voltammetry (SWV) to measure binding of the target proteins to their specific biotinylated aptamers, which had been immobilised on separate streptavidin (STR)‐modified screen‐printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs), in the presence of the redox mediator ferricyanide (Fe(CN)63−). This electrochemical aptasensing system had a detection limit of 3 ng/ml for GHSA and 0.2 μg/ml for HSA. The results exhibited high selectivity for GHSA over other molecules present in the blood. The developed sensor was able to measure the amount of GHSA in plasma samples. A statistically significant difference was observed in the elevated plasma GHSA levels in diabetic versus non‐diabetic patients. Moreover, the trends in these GHSA levels were consistent with those obtained using the HbA1c test. The sensing system reported herein could be applied as a point‐of‐care‐testing (POCT) device for measurements of clinically relevant GHSA values.
Surface Structures, Crystal Orientation, and Electrochemical Behavior of Modified LiFePO4 by Novel Strategies
Authors: Zhang Ying , Zhang Ronglan , Xu Feifei , Zhao Jianshe
Published: July 2019

Four kinds of novel additives, mononuclear and binuclear amino cobalt metal phthalocyanines combined with carbon nanotubes through physical integration or chemical bonding, are found and serve as structure‐ and morphology‐regulating agents to modify LiFePO4. The four kinds of additives with active groups, high‐molecular‐weight, and large conjugated π bonds regulate LiFePO4 to form four kinds of morphologies dominating in different crystal surfaces and stabilizing the LiFePO4 structure during crystallization. Herein, overcoming poor ionic properties, electrical conductivity, and poor tap density of LiFePO4 is focused upon. Specifically, the relationships between regulating additives and dominating morphologies, as well as the electrochemical properties are investigated.
An experimental and modeling study of heat radiation characteristics of inclined ceiling jet in an airplane cargo compartment
Authors: Tao Zhenxiang , Yang Rui , Zhu Pei , Li Cong , Liu Quanyi , Zhang Hui
Published: July 2019

A series of pool fires were carried out in an airplane cargo compartment to investigate the effect of the pressure on the heat radiation flux (HRF) of the inclined ceiling jet fire. During the tests, different static chamber pressures ranging from 50 to 101 kPa were controlled by the air flow in and out; both free fire and inclined ceiling jet fire were conducted with five different heat release rates (HRRs), which were produced by a 17‐cm square porous gas burner using propane as fuel. Vertical flame temperature, thermal plume temperature beneath the inclined ceiling, and HRF to the horizontal floor were measured and analyzed; at the same time, the flame shape was recorded by a video. It was found that the HRF was increased with the HRR, and there was a sudden rise for these fire impinging on the ceiling. The flame radiation fraction had a weak correlation with the environment pressure, while the flame emissivity was increased with the increasing ambient pressure. Besides, on the basis of the assumption that the flame emissivity is equaled in both free flame and the inclined ceiling jet fire, HRF calculated model was established and compared with the experimental results.
Comments on Paper: “Depositional history and provenance of cratonic ‘Purana’ basins in southern India: A multipronged geochronology approach to the Proterozoic Kaladgi and Bhima basins” by Joy et al., 2018. Geological Journal, https://doi.org/10.1002/gj.3415
Authors: Patil Pillai Shilpa , George Bivin G. , Ray Jyotiranjan S. , Kale Vivek S.
Published: July 2019

The paper by Joy et al. (2018) contains several generalizations and appears to have followed a flawed analytical technique. We seek clarifications from the authors on specific points to ensure the credibility of the conclusions drawn by them.
Persistent increase in ventral hippocampal long‐term potentiation by juvenile stress: A role for astrocytic glutamine synthetase
Authors: Ivens Sebastian , Çalışkan Gürsel , Papageorgiou Ismini , Cesetti Tiziana , Malich Ansgar , Kann Oliver , Heinemann Uwe , Stork Oliver , Albrecht Anne
Published: July 2019

A traumatic childhood is among the most important risk factors for developing stress‐related psychopathologies such as posttraumatic stress disorder or depression later in life. However, despite the proven role of astrocytes in regulating transmitter release and synaptic plasticity, the contribution of astrocytic transmitter metabolism to such stress‐induced psychopathologies is currently not understood. In rodents, childhood adversity can be modeled by juvenile stress exposure, resulting in increased anxiety, and impaired coping with stress in adulthood. We describe that such juvenile stress in rats, regardless of additional stress in adulthood, leads to reduced synaptic efficacy in the ventral CA1 (vCA1) Schaffer collaterals, but increased long‐term potentiation (LTP) of synaptic transmission after high‐frequency stimulation. We tested whether the glutamate–glutamine‐cycle guides the lasting changes on plasticity observed after juvenile stress by blocking the astrocytic glutamate‐degrading enzyme, glutamine synthetase (GS). Indeed, the pharmacological inhibition of GS by methionine sulfoximine in slices from naïve rats mimics the effect of juvenile stress on vCA1‐LTP, while supplying glutamine is sufficient to normalize the LTP. Assessing steady‐state mRNA levels in the vCA1 stratum radiatum reveals distinct shifts in the expression of GS, astrocytic glutamate, and glutamine transporters after stress in juvenility, adulthood, or combined juvenile/adult stress. While GS mRNA expression levels are lastingly reduced after juvenile stress, GS protein levels are maintained stable. Together our results suggest a critical role for astrocytes and the glutamate–glutamine cycle in mediating long‐term effects of juvenile stress on plasticity in the vCA1, a region associated with anxiety and emotional memory processing.
Payment models in primary health care: A driver of the quantity and quality of medical laboratory utilization
Authors: Chami Nadine , Sweetman Arthur
Published: July 2019

Physician payment models' incentives regarding many aspects of primary health care are not well understood. We focus on the case of medical laboratory utilization and examine how physicians' laboratory test ordering patterns change following a switch to a blended capitation payment model from one with fee for service enhanced with pay for performance. Also, within blended capitation, we examine differences between traditional staffing and interdisciplinary teams. Using a propensity score weighted fixed‐effects specification to address selection, it is estimated that the switch to capitation leads to a short‐run average of 3% fewer laboratory requisitions per patient. Patients' laboratory utilization also becomes more concentrated with the rostering physician. More importantly, using diabetes‐related laboratory tests as a case study, after joining the blended model, physicians order 3% fewer inappropriate/redundant tests, and the addition of an interdisciplinary care team makes the reduction about 9%. Advances in both continuity and quality seem to be associated with blended capitation.
Interactive effects of stress reactivity and rapid eye movement sleep theta activity on emotional memory formation
Authors: Kim Sara Y. , Kark Sarah M. , Daley Ryan T. , Alger Sara E. , Rebouças Daniella , Kensinger Elizabeth A. , Payne Jessica D.
Published: July 2019

Sleep and stress independently enhance emotional memory consolidation. In particular, theta oscillations (4–7 Hz) during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep increase coherence in an emotional memory network (i.e., hippocampus, amygdala, and prefrontal cortex) and enhance emotional memory. However, little is known about how stress during learning mightinteractwith subsequent REM theta activity to affect emotional memory. In the current study, we examined whether the relationship between REM theta activity and emotional memory differs as a function of pre‐encoding stress exposure and reactivity. Participants underwent a psychosocial stressor (the Trier Social Stress Task;n= 32) or a comparable control task (n= 32) prior to encoding. Task‐evoked cortisol reactivity was assessed by salivary cortisol rise from pre‐ to post‐stressor, and participants in the stress condition were additionally categorized as high or low cortisol responders via a median split. During incidental encoding, participants studied 150 line drawings of negative, neutral, and positive images, followed by the complete color photo. All participants then slept overnight in the lab with polysomnographic recording. The next day, they were given a surprise recognition memory task. Results showed that memory was better for emotional relative to neutral information. Critically, these findings were observed only in the stress condition. No emotional memory benefit was observed in the control condition. In stressed participants, REM theta power significantly predicted memory for emotional information, specifically for positive items. This relationship was observed only in high cortisol responders. For low responders and controls, there was no relationship between REM theta and memory of any valence. These findings provide evidence that elevated stress at encoding, and accompanying changes in neuromodulators such as cortisol, may interact with theta activity during REM sleep to promote selective consolidation of emotional information.
The next hundred years of growth and convergence
Authors: Startz Richard
Published: July 2019

World gross domestic product per capita is forecast to grow at 2.6% annually over the next 100 years. Convergence of less‐developed countries toward output levels of the world frontier accounts for much of the forecast. Projecting recent growth in China and India accounts for much of the forecast convergence. The forecast differs from the earlier literature because the facts of convergence have changed in recent decades. A Markov‐switching model is estimated for each country, allowing each country to switch on or off a path of convergence to the world output frontier. Bayesian estimates of the historical process and posterior forecasts are offered.
Automated quantification of superficial retinal capillaries and large vessels for diabetic retinopathy on optical coherence tomographic angiography
Authors: Xu Xiayu , Chen Cheng , Ding Wenxiang , Yang Peiwei , Lu Huiqin , Xu Feng , Lei Jianqin
Published: July 2019

Optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) is a relatively new technique with capillary‐level resolution, which has shown great potential for the diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy (DR). A fully automatic algorithm for the quantitative measurement of microcirculatory changes in sight‐threatening DR is presented. The foveal avascular zone (FAZ) segmentation was improved with a graph‐theoretic method and the large vessels and capillaries were separately identified and analyzed. The method was evaluated in healthy and diabetic eyes with various stages of retinopathy. Results showed that, compared with the healthy group, the diabetic group showed a significantly larger large vessel density, but a significantly smaller capillary density (P < .001). Circularity of FAZ was significantly smaller while nonperfusion area was significantly larger in the diabetic group. The combined variable of all image metrics reached an area under the ROC of 0.853 (95% CI, 0.784‐0.923) for mild to moderate nonproliferative DR and 0.950 (95% CI, 0.922‐0.979) for proliferative DR. Microvascular and FAZ changes with various DR stages can be accurately delineated using the developed automatic program. Quantitative metrics on OCTA serve as potential biomarkers for the staging of DR.
Rapid relaxation pathway of the excited state of linear merocyanines in solutions
Authors: Wang Shao‐An , Chen Wei‐Hao , Syue Ming‐Lun , Tan Kui‐Thong , Chen I‐Chia
Published: July 2019

Excited‐state relaxation of linear merocyanine dyes in solution is investigated using time‐resolved spectroscopy techniques and quantum chemical calculations. The merocyanine L‐Mero4 and phenyl‐substituted P‐L‐Mero4 have a S‐trans and S‐cis structure, respectively, consisting of indole moiety as the donor, indandione as the acceptor, and the tetramethine as the bridge. The time‐correlated single‐photon counting (TCSPC) picosecond measurements after excitation at wavelength 515 nm to the ππ* state yield emission curves with a short component τ1 in the range of 27–160 ps and a second component τ2 of 200–780 ps for L‐Mero4. In P‐L‐Mero4, τ1 lies in the range of 18–150 ps and τ2 220–520 ps. The subfemtosecond transient absorption measurements yield a short component around 0.4–1.4 ps, and the second/third components are similar to those in the TCPSC measurements. The analysis of the experimental data demonstrates that the ground state recovery exhibits a biexponential rise and rapidly indicates that the conversion back to the electronic ground state provides a fast, nonradiative pathway. Quantum chemical calculations on the electronic structures and their dependence on the molecular confirmation are performed. We identify the excited states and the relaxation path along the twist of the center double bonds in tetramethine that might be the nonradiative pathway. The C=C double bond is weakened in the ππ* state. The phenyl substitution in the conjugated double bond weakens this C=C bond, lowers the isomerization barrier, increases the nonradiative rate, and reduces the emission quantum yield. In polar solvents, the energy of the perpendicular conformer along the trans–cis isomerization path is increased to achieve less coupling to the ground state surface. Because of the small barrier to the trans form, these two conformers establish an equilibrium condition. The trans form, which lies at a lower energy, gains more population and thus has a higher emission yield.
Morphology of the digestive gland of the marine panpulmonate limpetSiphonaria lessonii: A cytological, histochemical, and ultrastructural description
Authors: Landro Sonia M. , Teso Valeria , Arrighetti Florencia
Published: July 2019

The molluskan digestive gland has been widely studied and its structural and ultrastructural descriptions have allowed the understanding of its several functions. Despite siphonarids are broadly distributed around the world, morphological studies on their digestive system are poorly represented. The panpulmonate limpetSiphonaria lessoniiis the most abundant gastropod and the dominant herbivore in the rocky intertidal coast of Buenos Aires. The aim of this study was to describe the morphology, histology, ultrastructure, and histochemistry of the digestive gland of this gastropod as well as the cycle of activity of digestion. For that, different histochemical techniques along with light microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy were employed. This study revealed a complex epithelium, composed of a simple layer with five cell types. Digestive cells and vacuolated cells are responsible for intracellular digestion and energy accumulation; basophilic cells, secrete substances that would be involved in extracellular digestion; pigmented cells might have an excretory function and thin cells would correspond to undifferentiated cells. In addition, the tubules present a changing morphology according to the digestive activity that they undergo. AsS. lessoniiis a grazer that feeds continuously, the cycle of activity of the digestive gland seems to be daily.
Taking stock of consumer returns: A review and classification of the literature
Authors: Abdulla Huseyn , Ketzenberg Michael , Abbey James D.
Published: July 2019

Coincident with the rapid growth of consumer returns and their corresponding importance in the retail marketplace, academic interest in the area of consumer return policy design has significantly increased. In fact, the growth in academic publications has been tremendous, with almost half of the published works appearing within the past 6 years. The influx of new and evolving research spans across multiple disciplines and various methodologies. To provide clarity for the continued evolution of the field, we provide a comprehensive review and classification of the literature predicated on a holistic conceptual framework. The scope of the review includes all peer reviewed journal articles published prior to the end of 2018, along with any working papers cited therefrom, that specifically address (a) managerial decision‐making related to return policies or (b) consumer behavior in response to such decision‐making. Examining the state of the literature and practice on return policy design through the lens of a unified conceptual framework—a framework that spans both analytical and empirical research—reveals numerous managerial and theoretical opportunities for future research.
Effects of post‐release movements on survival of translocated sage‐grouse
Authors: Ebenhoch Kyle , Thornton Daniel , Shipley Lisa , Manning Jeffrey A. , White Kevin
Published: July 2019

Translocation is a vital tool in conservation and recovery programs, and knowledge of factors that determine demographic rates of translocated organisms is important for assessing the efficacy of translocations. Greater sage‐grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus) have been the subject of recent translocation efforts because of their declining range and their usefulness as an umbrella species for conservation. Using a long‐term data set on sage‐grouse in central Washington, USA, we compared movement and demographic rates of translocated and resident birds. Because newly translocated birds experience physiological stress during translocation and are released in unfamiliar habitat, we hypothesized their demographic rates would differ from residents. We analyzed 18 years of radio‐tracking data acquired from resident, newly translocated (<1 yr post‐translocation; T1), and previously translocated (>1 yr post‐translocation; T2) sage‐grouse between 1989 and 2017 to estimate movement rates, survival, and productivity. Newly translocated sage‐grouse exhibited farther daily movements (0.58 km/day) and smaller 95% home ranges (89 km2) than residents and previously translocated birds. Daily movements and sex influenced survival, but survival did not differ according to residency status. Furthermore, birds that survived to a second year after translocation exhibited shorter daily movements compared to their first year ( = −0.727 ± 0.157 [SE]), which corresponded with increased survival the second year (T1 = 0.526, T2 = 0.610). This decrease in movements and increase in survival the second year was not apparent in the control group of resident birds, indicating a possible behavioral link to survival of newly translocated sage‐grouse. Most productivity metrics were similar for translocated and resident birds, except for nest propensity (i.e., nest initiation rate), which was lower for newly translocated birds (35%) compared to residents and previously translocated birds. Our results reveal that translocated sage‐grouse exhibit temporary differences in some demographic parameters in their first year, which later align with those of resident birds in subsequent years. Similarities in adult and nest survival according to residency status further suggest that translocation may prove to be a viable tool for restoring and conserving this species. Continued declines in sage‐grouse populations in Washington, however, indicate that habitat conversion and fragmentation may be reducing demographic rates of residents and translocated birds, which warrants further study. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Expression of different ParE toxins results in conserved phenotypes with distinguishable classes of toxicity
Authors: Ames Jessica R. , Muthuramalingam Meenakumari , Murphy Tamiko , Najar Fares Z. , Bourne Christina R.
Published: July 2019

Toxin–antitoxin (TA) systems are found on both chromosomes and plasmids. These systems are unique in that they can confer both fatal and protective effects on bacterial cells—a quality that could potentially be harnessed given further understanding of these TA mechanisms. The current work focuses on the ParE subfamily, which is found throughout proteobacteria and has a sequence identity on average of approximately 12% (similarity at 30%–80%). Our aim is to evaluate the equivalency of chromosomally derived ParE toxin activity depending on its bacterial species of origin. Nine ParE toxins were analyzed, originating from six different bacterial species. Based on the resulting toxicity, three categories can be established: ParE toxins that do not exert toxicity under the experimental conditions, toxins that exert toxicity within the first four hours, and those that exert toxicity only after 10–12 hr of exposure. All tested ParE toxins produce a cellular morphologic change from rods to filaments, consistent with disruption of DNA topology. Analysis of the distribution of filamented cells within a population reveals a correlation between the extent of filamentation and toxicity. No membrane septation is visible along the length of the cell filaments, whereas aberrant lipid blebs are evident. Potent ParE‐mediated toxicity is also correlated with a hallmark signature of abortive DNA replication, consistent with the inhibition of DNA gyrase.
Quantification of hydroxyl exchange of D‐Glucose at physiological conditions for optimization of glucoCEST MRI at 3, 7 and 9.4 Tesla
Authors: Zaiss Moritz , Anemone Annasofia , Goerke Steffen , Longo Dario Livio , Herz Kai , Pohmann Rolf , Aime Silvio , Rivlin Michal , Navon Gil , Golay Xavier , Scheffler Klaus
Published: July 2019

Aims

To determine individual glucose hydroxyl exchange rates at physiological conditions and use this information for numerical optimization of glucoCEST/CESL preparation. To give guidelines for in vivo glucoCEST/CESL measurement parameters at clinical and ultra‐high field strengths.

Methods

Five glucose solution samples at different pH values were measured at 14.1 T at various B1 power levels. Multi‐B1‐Z‐spectra Bloch‐McConnell fits at physiological pH were further improved by the fitting of Z‐spectra of five pH values simultaneously. The obtained exchange rates were used in a six‐pool Bloch‐McConnell simulation including a tissue‐like water pool and semi‐solid MT pool with different CEST and CESL presaturation pulse trains. In vivo glucose injection experiments were performed in a tumor mouse model at 7 T.

Results and discussion

Glucose Z‐spectra could be fitted with four exchanging pools at 0.66, 1.28, 2.08 and 2.88 ppm. Corresponding hydroxyl exchange rates could be determined at pH = 7.2, T = 37°C and 1X PBS. Simulation of saturation transfer for this glucose system in a gray matter‐like and a tumor‐like system revealed optimal pulses at different field strengths of 9.4, 7 and 3 T. Different existing sequences and approaches are simulated and discussed. The optima found could be experimentally verified in an animal model at 7 T.

Conclusion

For the determined fast exchange regime, presaturation pulses in the spin‐lock regime (long recover time, short yet strong saturation) were found to be optimal. This study gives an estimation for optimization of the glucoCEST signal in vivo on the basis of glucose exchange rate at physiological conditions.
Multiparametric statistical quantification of pH heterogeneity by 1H MRS and MRSI of extracellular pH markers: Proof of principle
Authors: Lutz Norbert W. , Bernard Monique
Published: July 2019

Acid production and transport in numerous biological tissues and medical conditions are active areas of research. Heterogeneity of pH within a given homogeneous‐appearing tissue volume has been reported, but none of the conventional methods currently available for measuring tissue pH provides quantitative parameters describing the frequency of occurrence of pH values within such a volume. We have previously presented a multiparametric noninvasive in vivo approach, providing at least 10 different statistical descriptors of pH heterogeneity based on a novel type of line shape analysis developed for pH‐sensitive 31P MRS resonances. However, this method suffers from lack of sensitivity, thus making rapid and spatially resolved measurements difficult. We present here the proof of principle of a new, more sensitive approach to statistical characterization of extracellular pH heterogeneity based on 1H MRS, with the potential of being combined with spatial resolution. We experimentally study a range of test solutions of a reporter molecule that has previously been shown to possess a 1H MRS resonance whose chemical shift varies with pH, including when injected intravenously into experimental animals (imidazole ethoxycarbonylpropionic acid, [IEPA]). Statistical pH heterogeneity descriptors are determined for phantoms mimicking tissue pH heterogeneity. To this end, the pH‐sensitive 1H MRS resonance is transformed into a pH curve. Subsequently, the digital points of this pH profile are used to build a histogram using dedicated algorithms. The following descriptors are computed from this histogram: weighted mean pH and median pH, pH standard deviation, pH range, pH mode(s), pH kurtosis, pH skewness and pH entropy. Our new method is also validated by analyzing previously published in vivo MRSI spectra. The proof of principle provided in this work should form the basis of further in vivo studies in physiology and medicine, eg in cancer research, but also in other fields such as kidney and muscle research.
Climate Change and its impacts on Indian agriculture: An Econometric analysis
Authors: Praveen Bushra , Sharma Pritee
Published: July 2019

This study assessed the climate change impacts on land productivity for major food and nonfood grain crops in India. We compiled data for 50 years (1967–2016) using 15 crops across India to estimate the variation of agriculture production for each crop by different variables such as temperature and rainfall estimation. Our results indicate that land productivity decreases with an increase in annual average temperature in most of the crops. The adverse impact of climate change on agricultural production indicates food security threat to small and marginal farming households and adversely affected due to climatic fluctuations. Results show that a rise in temperature would reduce agricultural productivity and assessed sensitivity of Indian agriculture to climate change.
Identifying patient‐centered outcomes for children with cancer and their caregivers when they seek care in the emergency department
Authors: Mueller Emily L. , Cochrane Anneli R. , Lynch Dustin O. , Cockrum Brandon P. , Wiehe Sarah E.
Published: July 2019

Background

Children with cancer have high utilization of the emergency department (ED), but little is known about which outcomes are most important to them and their caregivers when they seek care in the ED.

Procedure

A qualitative evaluation of ED experience for children with cancer and their caregivers was performed using self‐reported interactive toolkits. Eligible participants included children with cancer (ages 11‐19) and caregivers of children with cancer whose child received cancer therapy within the last year and had an ED visit within the last 2 years. Eligible participants received toolkits by mail and received incentives if they completed the toolkit. Toolkits were transcribed, thematically coded, and iteratively analyzed using Nvivo 11.0 software.

Results

There were 26 toolkits received—seven by children aged 11‐17 years and 19 by caregivers (11 with children aged 2‐7 years, eight with children aged 11‐17 years). About half were from within 1 h of their treating institution. The most important outcomes to this population included system‐level issues (eg, cleanliness of space, timeliness of evaluation) and oncology‐provider‐ and ED‐provider‐level issues (eg, ability to access port‐a‐caths, quality of communication). Participants also identified outcomes that were within the control of the patient/caregiver, such as improving their sense of preparedness.

Conclusion

The important outcomes to children with cancer and their caregivers when they seek care in the ED are distinct from current quality metrics. Future research should focus on the development and validation of a patient‐centered outcomes tool.
Childhood cancer survivors report preferring lifestyle interventions delivered in person rather than online: An adolescent and parent perspective
Authors: Touyz Lauren M. , Cohen Jennifer , Cohn Richard J. , Garnett Sarah P. , Anazodo Antoinette , Gohil Paayal , Grech Allison M. , Ng Anthea , Wakefield Claire E.
Published: July 2019

Background

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can protect adolescent survivors of pediatric cancer against chronic diseases such as obesity and cardiovascular disease. In this study, we examined the attitudes of adolescent survivors of pediatric cancer and their parents toward improving lifestyle behaviors after cancer treatment, including their preferences for intervention delivery and perceived barriers and benefits to healthy eating and exercise.

Methods

We recruited adolescent survivors of childhood cancer aged 11‐19 years and their parents, from two hospitals. Participants completed a questionnaire via mail or at routine oncology clinic visits.

Results

Thirty‐three adolescents (response rate 39%, mean age 15, 61% male) and 32 parents (representing 30 parent‐child dyads) participated. Parents were significantly more interested in having their child participate in a lifestyle intervention than adolescents (41% of adolescents and 72% of parents, P = .012). Both groups preferred that the survivor receive lifestyle support face to face rather than online. Adolescents preferred to involve their friends (39% of adolescents and 19% of parents) whereas parents preferred to involve the family in a lifestyle intervention (15% of adolescents and 47% of parents, P = .006). Adolescents and their parents perceived a dislike of the taste of fruits and vegetables, fatigue, lack of motivation, and fear of injury as barriers to change. They perceived that keeping healthy and having more energy were benefits to participation. Participants indicated that interventions that provide face‐to‐face personal training and dietary education at a local gym would be well accepted.

Conclusions

Adolescents who have had cancer in childhood have a preference for face‐to‐face contact with health professionals to overcome the barriers to participation in a lifestyle intervention.
On Post–Apocalyptic and Doomsday Prepping Beliefs: A New Measure, Its Correlates, and the Motivation to Prep
Authors: Fetterman Adam K. , Rutjens Bastiaan T. , Landkammer Florian , Wilkowski Benjamin M.
Published: July 2019

Post–apocalyptic scenarios provide the basis for popular television shows, video games, and books. These scenarios may be popular because people have their own beliefs and visions about the apocalypse and the need to prepare. The prevalence of such beliefs might also hold societal relevance and serve as a type of projective test of personality. However, there are no quantitative accounts of post–apocalyptic or prepping beliefs. As such, we conducted seven studies ( Ntotal = 1034) to do so. In Studies 1 and 2, we developed a post–apocalyptic and prepping beliefs scale, explored its correlates, and confirmed its structure and psychometric properties. In Study 3, we attempted to activate a ‘prepper’ mindset and further explore the correlates of the new scale. In Studies 4 and 5, we investigated covariations in daily feelings, thoughts, and events, and prepping beliefs. In Studies 6a and 6b, we compared scores from ‘real’ preppers and to a non–prepping group. Overall, we found that post–apocalyptic concerns and prepping beliefs are predictive of low agreeableness and humility, paranoia, cynicism, conspiracy mentality, conservatism, and social dominance orientation. We also found that increased belief in the need to prep is associated with God–belief, negative daily experiences, and global political events. © 2019 European Association of Personality Psychology
Design, synthesis, and comparative evaluation of 99mTc(CO)3‐labeled N‐terminal and C‐terminal modified asparagine–glycine–arginine peptide constructs
Authors: Vats Kusum , Sharma Rohit , Kameswaran Mythili , Sarma Haladhar Dev , Satpati Drishty , Dash Ashutosh
Published: July 2019

The present study describes modification of asparagine–glycine–arginine (NGR) peptide at N‐terminally and C‐terminally by introduction of a tridentate chelating scaffold via click chemistry reaction. The N‐terminal and C‐terminal modified peptides were radiometalated with [99mTc(CO)3]+ precursor. The influence of these moieties at the two termini on the targeting properties of NGR peptide was determined by in vitro cell uptake studies and in vivo biodistribution studies. The two radiolabeled constructs did not exhibit any significant variation in uptake in murine melanoma B16F10 cells during in vitro studies. In vivo studies revealed nearly similar tumor uptake of N‐terminally modified peptide construct 5 and C‐terminally construct 6 at 2 h p.i. (1.9 ± 0.1 vs 2.4 ± 0.2% ID/g, respectively). The tumor‐to‐blood (T/B) and tumor‐to‐liver (T/L) ratios of the two radiometalated peptides were also quite similar. The two constructs cleared from all the major organs (heart, lungs, spleen, stomach, and blood) at 4 h p.i. (<1% ID/g). Blocking studies carried out by coinjection of cCNGRC peptide led to approximately 50% reduction in the tumor uptake at 2 h p.i. This work thus illustrates the possibility of convenient modification/radiometalation of NGR peptide at either N‐ or C‐terminus without hampering tumor targeting and pharmacokinetics.
The migration–urbanisation nexus in Nepal's exceptional urban transformation
Authors: Brøgger Ditte Rasmussen , Agergaard Jytte
Published: July 2019

The dynamic relationship between urban transformation and migration pathways formed by multiple attractions and mobilities to, within, and beyond urban areas constitute what we, in this paper, refer to as the migration–urbanisation nexus. Drawing on case studies of urban growth in three urban sites of Nepal, this paper explores how migration practices, including rural–urban, international and return migration, and the migrant economy, exemplified by returns of remittances, intersect with the socioeconomic and spatial dynamics of urban growth. The analysis combines quantitative and qualitative data on migration pathways, including the historical timing of migration, the shifting drivers of rural–urban migration, and examinations of the links to an international migration and remittance economy. The findings show how rural–urban migration during the 10 years of conflict is setting urban growth in motion. However, most importantly, the analysis reveals how urban growth and form are stimulated by the migrant agency related to translocal migration economies, in particular, urban investments of international remittances. In conclusion, it is suggested that the migration–urbanisation nexus approach developed in this paper has potential to be used beyond Nepal in studies of migration and urban growth.
Nickel and copper doped palladium clusters from a first‐principles perspective
Authors: López‐Sosa Luis , Cruz‐Martínez Heriberto , Solorza‐Feria Omar , Calaminici Patrizia
Published: July 2019

A complete study on the evolution of structures and the variation of the energy properties of MPdn−1(M = Ni and Cu; n = 2‐13) clusters is presented. The study was performed employing auxiliary density functional theory. The obtained results were compared with the results of Pdnclusters studied with the same methodology. For each cluster size, several structures were studied to determine the lowest energy structures. The initial structures for the geometry optimization were taken along ab initio Born‐Oppenheimer molecular dynamics trajectories. Different potentials energy surfaces were studied. All cluster structures were fully optimized without any symmetry restriction. Stable structures, frequencies, spin multiplicities, averaged bond lengths, spin density plots, different energy properties, dipole and magnetic moments as well as charge transfers are reported. This investigation indicates that the palladium clusters doped with a Ni atom are the most stable and potentially the most chemical active ones.
Impact of uterine weight on robotic hysterectomy: Analysis of 500 cases in a single institute
Authors: Akazawa Munetoshi , Lee Sheng‐Lun , Liu Wei‐Min
Published: July 2019

Backgrounds

Robotic surgeries have been used frequently for benign diseases in gynecology. However, the advantage of robotic surgery for huge uterus is unclear.

Methods

We analyzed surgical outcomes of 527 patients who underwent robotic hysterectomies for benign diseases, separating uterine sizes into five groups by every 250 g.

Results

Median operative time in the five groups was 123 minutes (<250 g), 130 minutes (250‐500 g), 144 minutes (500‐750 g), 180 minutes (750‐1000 g), and 170 minutes (>1000 g). Median estimated blood loss was 50, 100, 100, 200, and 400 mL in the five groups, respectively. The incidence of intraoperative complications did not correlate with uterine weight.

Conclusions

Operative time, estimated blood loss, and the incidence of conversion to laparotomy increased with uterine size during robotic hysterectomies, especially evident in a uterus >750 g.
Guaranteed‐performance consensus tracking of singular multiagent systems with Lipschitz nonlinear dynamics and switching topologies
Authors: Jiang Xiangli , Xia Guihua , Feng Zhiguang
Published: July 2019

In this paper, the problem of guaranteed‐performance consensus tracking of continuous‐time singular multiagent systems with Lipschitz nonlinearities and switching topologies is investigated. Consideration is that the interaction of the concerned agent network is described by a set of directed graphs with the union graph having a directed spanning tree rooted at the leader. To establish the guaranteed‐performance criterion, a quadratic performance function is constructed by utilizing the consensus errors among all agents. Then, a consensus protocol that collects the local information from neighboring agents is proposed to achieve consensus tracking and to guarantee the consensus regulation performance of the multiagent systems. On the basis of nonsingular transformation approach, singular systems theory, and Lyapunov stability analysis, the concerned guaranteed‐performance consensus tracking problem is cast into the admissibility analysis for an equivalent kind of switched singular consensus error system. Furthermore, sufficient conditions on the guaranteed‐performance consensus tracking protocol design are formulated in terms of linear matrix inequalities. Finally, numerical examples are employed to demonstrate the effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Improvements to and large‐scale evaluation of a robotic kiwifruit harvester
Authors: Williams Henry , Ting Canaan , Nejati Mahla , Jones Mark Hedley , Penhall Nicky , Lim JongYoon , Seabright Matthew , Bell Jamie , Ahn Ho Seok , Scarfe Alistair , Duke Mike , MacDonald Bruce
Published: July 2019

The growing popularity of kiwifruit orchards in New Zealand is increasing the already high demand for seasonal labourers. A novel robotic kiwifruit harvester has been designed and built to help meet this demand [H. A. Williams et al. Biosystems Eng. 181 (2019), pp. 140–156]. Early evaluations of the platform have shown good results with the system capable of harvesting 51.0% of 1,456 kiwifruit in four bays with an average cycle‐time of 5.5 s/fruit. However, the harvester's high cycle‐time, and high fruit loss rate at 23.4%, prevent it from being commercially viable. This paper presents two new developments for the harvesting system, a new vision system and two new gripper variations designed to overcome the harvester's previous limitations. Furthermore, we have designed and conducted the largest real‐world evaluation of a robotic fruit harvesting system published to date with over 12,000 kiwifruit involved. The results of this trial demonstrated that our kiwifruit harvester is one of the most effective selective fruit harvesters in the world capable of successfully harvesting 86.0% of reachable fruit, and 55.8% of all kiwifruit with a cycle‐time of 2.78 s/fruit.
An empirical Bayes approach for learning directed acyclic graph using MCMC algorithm
Authors: Rezaei Tabar Vahid , Zareifard Hamid , Salimi Selva , Plewczynski Dariusz
Published: July 2019

One hypothetically well‐founded approach for learning a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) is to utilize the Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) techniques. In the MCMC, the uniform noninformative priors on all of the possible graphs are considered. This brings about computational costs, making them impractical for learning the structure of DAGs with numerous variables. In this paper, we focus on the discrete variables and use the data information to restrict the space of possible graphs. This approach can be interpreted as an empirical Bayes paradigm. This means that we use an empirical Bayes approach to make zero prior probability of some possible graphs. For this purpose, we first estimate the potential neighbors using L1‐Regularized Markov Blanket and then determine the candidate causes for each variable by introducing a new criterion. This perspective makes it possible to reduce the search space in the process of the MCMC simulation. The results on the well‐known DAGs show that our method has higher accuracy. The source code is available athttp://bs.ipm.ac.ir/softwares/mcmccode.rar.
Effect of ‐OMe Substituent on Salicylaldehyde Schiff Base to Influence the Zn2+ Sensitivity and the Cancer Cell Line Imaging
Authors: Dey Sunanda , Pal Kunal , Jana Kuladip , Sinha Chittaranjan
Published: July 2019

Functional group of a molecule monitors the chemical selectivity and the structure regulates the rate of the reaction. Thus, structure‐function relation controls the overall sensitivity of the chemosensor. In this work, three congeneric Schiff bases with common amine, 2,2/‐(propane‐1,2‐diylbis(oxy))dianiline with methoxy substituted Salicylaldehyde are synthesised and have been used to examine the selectivity and sensitivity to the metal ions in 9:1 (v/v) acetonitrile/water (10 mM HEPES buffer, pH 7.4) medium. The probes display prominent fluorescence turn‐on emission when bonded with Zn2+ over sixteen other metal ions with very low limit of detection (LOD), 2.2 to 12.3 nM. Structure with bulkiness has low sensitivity to Zn2+ which may be due to steric crowding about the binding centres of the chelating motif. The selectivity for Zn2+ ion may ascribe to chelation enhancement of fluorescence (CHEF) effect. The probes are characterized by 1H and 13C NMR, IR, HR‐MS and elemental analysis. The metal: ligand ratio of the Zn(II)‐complexes follows 1:1 molar ratio and has been established by Job's plot, Benesi–Hildebrand plot and HR‐MS data. All the probes have been successfully applied to the detection of intracellular Zn2+ ion in Human liver cancer cell line, HepG2.
Sugarcane‐Based Photothermal Materials for Efficient Solar Steam Generation
Authors: Xiao Chaohu , Chen Lihua , Mu Peng , Jia Juan , Sun Hanxue , Zhu Zhaoqi , Liang Weidong , Li An
Published: July 2019

Solar steam generation is a promising strategy for harvesting solar energy for diverse applications such as desalination and wastewater treatment. Here, we demonstrate the fabrication of polypyrrole modified sugarcane (PPy‐SC) as efficient photothermal material for solar steam generation. The PPy‐SC possesses various close‐packed open channels in horizontal plane and super hydrophilic wettability which is beneficial for rapid transportation of water molecules. In combination with its abundant porosity (47%), low apparent density (80 mg cm−3), low thermal conductivity (0.042 W m−1 K−1), and broad light absorption (90%). The prepared PPy‐SC exhibits a high evaporation rate of 1.59 kg m−2 h−1 and conversion efficiency of 90.6%, under 1 sun irradiation. In addition, the PPy‐SC also shows good performance in desalination. With the merits of low‐cost, eco‐friendly, simple fabrication process, high solar energy conversion efficiency, the PPy‐SC shows great potential as an efficient photothermal material for solar steam generation.
Molecular Aptamer Beacons and Their Applications in Sensing, Imaging, and Diagnostics
Authors: Moutsiopoulou Angeliki , Broyles David , Dikici Emre , Daunert Sylvia , Deo Sapna K.
Published: July 2019

The ability to monitor types, concentrations, and activities of different biomolecules is essential to obtain information about the molecular processes within cells. Successful monitoring requires a sensitive and selective tool that can respond to these molecular changes. Molecular aptamer beacon (MAB) is a molecular imaging and detection tool that enables visualization of small or large molecules by combining the selectivity and sensitivity of molecular beacon and aptamer technologies. MAB design leverages structure switching and specific recognition to yield an optical on/off switch in the presence of the target. Various donor–quencher pairs such as fluorescent dyes, quantum dots, carbon‐based materials, and metallic nanoparticles have been employed in the design of MABs. In this work, the diverse biomedical applications of MAB technology are focused on. Different conjugation strategies for the energy donor–acceptor pairs are addressed, and the overall sensitivities of each detection system are discussed. The future potential of this technology in the fields of biomedical research and diagnostics is also highlighted.
Boosted Interfacial Polarization from Multishell TiO2@Fe3O4@PPy Heterojunction for Enhanced Microwave Absorption
Authors: Ding Jingjun , Wang Lei , Zhao Yunhao , Xing Linshen , Yu Xuefeng , Chen Guanyu , Zhang Jie , Che Renchao
Published: July 2019

Core@shell structures have been attracting extensive attention to boost microwave absorption (MA) performance due to the unique interfacial polarization. However, it still remains a challenge to synthesize sophisticated 1D semiconductor‐based materials with excellent MA competence. Herein, a hierarchical cable‐like TiO2@Fe3O4@PPy is fabricated by a sequential process of solvothermal treatment and polymerization. The complex permittivity of ternary composites can be optimized by tunable PPy coating thickness to improve the loss ability. The maximum reflection loss can reach −61.8 dB with a thickness of 3.2 mm while the efficient absorption bandwidth can achieve over 6.0 GHz, which involves the X and Ku band at only a 2.2 mm thickness. Importantly, the heterojunction contacts constructed by PPy–Fe3O4 and Fe3O4–TiO2 contribute to the enhanced polarization loss. Besides, the configuration of magnetic Fe3O4 sandwiched between dielectric TiO2 and PPy facilitates the magnetic stray field to radiate into the TiO2 core and out of the PPy shell, which significantly promotes magnetic–dielectric synergy. Electron holography validates the distinct charge distribution and magnetic coupling. The new findings might shed light on novel structures for functional core@shell composites and the design of semiconductor‐based materials for microwave absorption.