bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the ZnIIComplexes of 1,1′‐Binaphthyl‐Based Schiff Bases: Fluorescent Detection of Thiocyanate
Authors: Zhao Haihang , Cao Yuan , Zhang Yanjing , Zhou Yangyang , Zhao Gang , Pu Lin
Published: September 2018

Two diastereomeric Schiff bases (Sa,R)‐2and (Sa,S)‐2are prepared from the condensation of (S)‐3,3′‐diformyl‐1,1′‐bi‐2‐naphthol withd‐ andl‐2‐phenylglycinol. Upon coordination with Zn2+, (Sa,R)‐2shows much greater fluorescence than (Sa,S)‐2does. The effect of various anions on the fluorescence of these Zn2+complexes is studied. It is found that (Sa,S)‐2exhibits large fluorescence enhancement in the presence of thiocyanate but not with other anions. This compound can be used as a sensitive as well as selective fluorescent probe for thiocyanate that is of significant environment and health importance. Spectroscopic studies have revealed interesting dimeric [2+3] structures of these complexes.
Formulation of Pomegranate Seed Oil: A Promising Approach of Improving Stability and Health‐Promoting Properties
Authors: Adu‐Frimpong Michael , Omari‐Siaw Emmanuel , Mukhtar Yusif Mohammed , Xu Ximing , Yu Jiangnan
Published: September 2018

Emerging evidence has suggested that nutraceutical ingredients like pomegranate seed oil (PSO) possesses health‐promoting effects in cell and animal models. However, these health benefits (anticancer, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐diabetic, and so on) are limited by low physicochemical stability, slow intestinal absorption, and rapid metabolism of PSO. In order to overcome these drawbacks, some carriers viz., nanoemulsion, encapsulation, and nanoparticles are developed recently. This paper assesses the chemical compositions and physicochemical properties of PSO, as well as biological activities and possible mechanisms. It also discusses the formulation of PSO for improved stability and health‐promoting activities.

Practical Applications: This review highlights the prospects of PSO formulation. The relevance of this study is that the stability and biological properties of PSO could be enhanced through nanocarriers. A formulated PSO has a potential use in nutraceutical, functional foods, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries.

PSO, a source of various nutrients and antioxidants with immense benefits to human health is incorporated into nanocarriers such as microencapsulation, nanoemulsion and nanoparticle. This improved the health‐promoting benefits of the oil.
Natural Gas Council Study Confirms Resilience of Gas Industry
Authors: Smead Richard G.
Published: September 2018

The natural gas industry is represented by several organizations, reflecting the diversity of the industry's sectors.
Curcumin analogs: Their roles in pancreatic cancer growth and metastasis
Authors: Nagaraju Ganji Purnachandra , Benton Leah , Bethi Shipra Reddy , Shoji Mamoru , El‐Rayes Bassel F.
Published: September 2018

Curcumin is a polyphenolic constituent of turmeric that is known to have various molecular effects in preclinical models, leading to prevention and anticancer properties. In clinical trials, curcumin has failed to demonstrate activity against pancreatic cancer possibly due to its low bioavailability and potency. Using the curcumin molecular model, our group and others have synthesized several analogs with better bioavailability and higher potency in pancreatic cancer in vitro and xenograft models. This mini review summarizes some of the known molecular effects of curcumin analogs and their potential role as novel therapeutics for pancreatic cancer.
Institutionalization of postpartum intrauterine devices
Authors: Makins Anita , Arulkumaran Sabaratnam
Published: September 2018

Globally, 225 million women need contraception. Birth spacing reduces perinatal and maternal morbidity and mortality. PPIUD is cost‐effective and reversible with minimal expulsions and complications.
Planning and implementation of a FIGO postpartum intrauterine device initiative in six countries
Authors: de Caestecker Linda , Banks Laura , Bell Eliza , Sethi Maya , Arulkumaran Sabaratnam
Published: September 2018

Objective

To describe the process of planning and implementing a program of counselling and delivery of postpartum intrauterine devices (PPIUD) in 48 hospitals across six countries in Africa and Asia.

Methods

The process of planning the FIGO PPIUD initiative, selection of countries and hospitals, model of implementation, and lessons for the future are described.

Results

Country‐level and hospital‐based leadership were essential and training‐the‐trainer models were successful. There was a need for consistency of competency standards allowing for national variations. As the project progressed, additional steps were necessary for steady implementation of the initiative, specifically: establishment of a project steering committee and a data safety monitoring committee, audits of structure and process, and regular feedback of each center's performance to stimulate maintenance and enhancement of activities. Postnatal follow‐up was challenging in many countries with fragmented maternity systems.

Conclusion

The importance of professional leadership and commitment backed by robust data for monitoring and feedback are essential for success.
Factors influencing the likelihood of acceptance of postpartum intrauterine devices across four countries: India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania
Authors: Makins Anita , Taghinejadi Neda , Sethi Maya , Machiyama Kazuyo , Thapa Kusum , Perera Gamini , Munganyizi Projestine S. , Bhardwaj Ajey , Arulkumaran Sabaratnam
Published: September 2018

Objective

To examine the factors that positively influenced the likelihood of accepting provision of postpartum intrauterine devices (PPIUDs) across four countries: Sri Lanka, Nepal, Tanzania, and India.

Methods

Healthcare providers were trained across 24 facilities in counselling and insertion of PPIUDs as part of a large multicountry study. Women delivered were asked to take part in a 15‐minute face‐to‐face structured interview conducted by in‐country data collection officers prior to discharge. Univariate analysis was performed to investigate factors associated with acceptance.

Results

From January 2016 to November 2017, 6477 health providers were trained, 239 033 deliveries occurred, and 219 242 interviews were conducted. Of those interviewed, 68% were counselled on family planning and 56% on PPIUD, with 20% consenting to PPIUD. Multiple counselling sessions was the only factor resulting in higher consent rates (OR 1.30–1.39) across all countries. Odds ratios for women's age, parity, and cadre of provider counselling varied between countries.

Conclusion

Consent for contraception, specifically PPIUD, is such a culturally specific topic and generalization across countries is not possible. When planning contraceptive policy changes, it is important to have an understanding of the sociocultural factors at play.
Institutionalizing postpartum family planning and postpartum intrauterine device services in Nepal: Role of training and mentorship
Authors: Thapa Kusum , Dhital Rolina , Karki Yagya B. , Rajbhandari Sameena , Amatya Sapana , Pande Saroja , Tunnacliffe Emily‐Anne
Published: September 2018

Objective

To explore the perceptions of key stakeholders on different modalities of training and mentoring activities for healthcare providers of postpartum family planning and postpartum intrauterine devices (PPFP/PPIUD).

Methods

In this qualitative study, data were collected from 40 participants in December 2017 via focus group discussions (FGD) and in‐depth interviews (IDI) in three hospitals implementing PPFP/PPIUD services and government line agencies in Nepal. Data were analyzed through content analysis and grouped into themes and categories.

Results

The majority of participants reported that PPFP/PPIUD training and mentoring was useful and contributed to their professional development. Most found that on‐the‐job training (OJT) was more effective than group‐based training (GBT).

Conclusion

Training and mentoring activities were perceived to be useful by health providers and OJT was the approach preferred by the majority. Further studies are necessary to explore the existing challenges and long‐term effects of each modality of training and mentoring on health providers’ competency and attitudes and on the uptake of PPIUD by postpartum mothers.
Impact of contraceptive counselling training among counsellors participating in the FIGO postpartum intrauterine device initiative in Bangladesh
Authors: Fatima Parveen , Antora Arefa Hossain , Dewan Farhana , Nash Stephen , Sethi Maya
Published: September 2018

Objective

To evaluate the impact of structured training given to dedicated family planning counsellors on postpartum intrauterine device (PPIUD) services across six tertiary hospitals in Bangladesh.

Methods

Family planning counsellors underwent structured training on postpartum family planning, PPIUD in particular, over a four‐day period. Impact of training was evaluated by comparing PPIUD counselling rates, consent rates, insertion rates, and removal rates five months before and five months after the training, using data from women delivering in the participating facilities.

Results

A total of 27 622 women were included in this analysis: 11 263 (40.8%) before the training intervention and 16 359 (59.2%) after it. There was an increase in the proportion of women who were counselled (from 75.3% to 83.8%, P<0.001), and a small decrease in the proportion of women agreeing to have a PPIUD inserted following counselling (13.7% vs 12.9%, P=0.03). Overall insertion rate was similar before and after training (9.5% vs 9.8%, P=0.42), while removal rate reduced from 2.8% to 1.8% (P=0.41).

Conclusion

Structured training had no impact on overall PPIUD insertion rate. However, it did impact numbers of women receiving counselling, perceived quality of the counselling received, and overall removal rates.
Retention on ART and predictors of disengagement from care in several alternative community‐centred ART refill models in rural Swaziland
Authors: Pasipamire Lorraine , Nesbitt Robin C , Ndlovu Sindiso , Sibanda Gibson , Mamba Sipho , Lukhele Nomthandazo , Pasipamire Munyaradzi , Kabore Serge M , Rusch Barbarba , Ciglenecki Iza , Kerschberger Bernhard
Published: September 2018

Introduction

A broad range of community‐centred care models for patients stable on anti‐retroviral therapy (ART) have been proposed by the World Health Organization to better respond to patient needs and alleviate pressure on health systems caused by rapidly growing patient numbers. Where available, often a single alternative care model is offered in addition to routine clinical care. We operationalized several community‐centred ART delivery care models in one public sector setting. Here, we compare retention in care and on ART and identify predictors of disengagement with care.

Methods

Patients on ART were enrolled into three community‐centred ART delivery care models in the rural Shiselweni region (Swaziland), from 02/2015 to 09/2016: Community ART Groups (CAGs), comprehensive outreach care and treatment clubs. We used Kaplan–Meier estimates to describe crude retention in care model and retention on ART (including patients who returned to clinical care). Multivariate Cox proportional hazard models were used to determine factors associated with all‐cause attrition from care model and disengagement with ART.

Results

A total of 918 patients were enrolled. CAGs had the most participants with 531 (57.8%). Median age was 44.7 years (IQR 36.3 to 54.4), 71.8% of patients were female, and 62.6% fulfilled eligibility criteria for community ART. The 12‐month retention in ART was 93.7% overall; it was similar between model types (p = 0.52). A considerable proportion of patients returned from community ART to clinical care, resulting in lower 12 months retention in care model (82.2% overall); retention in care model was lowest in CAGs at 70.4%, compared with 86.3% in outreach and 90.4% in treatment clubs (p < 0.001). In multivariate Cox regression models, patients in CAGs had a higher risk of disengaging from care model (aHR 3.15, 95% CI 2.01 to 4.95, p < 0.001) compared with treatment clubs. We found, however, no difference in attrition in ART between alternative model types.

Conclusions

Concurrent implementation of three alternative community‐centred ART models in the same region was feasible. Although a considerable proportion of patients returned back to clinical care, overall ART retention was high and should encourage programme managers to offer community‐centred care models adapted to their specific setting.
Gaseous carbon and nitrogen losses during composting of carbonized and un‐carbonized agricultural residues in northern Ghana
Authors: Manka'abusi Delphine , Steiner Christoph , Haering Volker , Abubakari Abdul–Halim , Marschner Bernd , Buerkert Andreas
Published: September 2018

Adding biochar to nutrient rich organic matter during composting reportedly reduces nitrogen (N) volatilization and carbonization of feedstock stabilized organic carbon (C). We studied the effects of biochar, produced from agricultural residue as compost additives, on CO2, N2O, and NH3 fluxes in northern Ghana. Three biochar types [from corn cobs (cCC), rice husks (cRH), and wood (cWO)] and their uncharred feedstocks (CC, RH, and WO), were co‐composted with poultry manure (15 vol.‐%) and rice straw (60 vol.‐%) in randomly allocated 1 m3 compost bins. Emissions were measured using a closed chamber system composed of a photo‐acoustic infrared gas analyser (INNOVA 1312‐5). Biochar amended composts showed higher CO2‐C emission rates during the initial composting phase. Maximum CO2‐C flux rates during the first week reached 15 g CO2‐C m−2 h−1 in cRH and 12 g CO2‐C m−2 h−1 for RH, while those from cCC were 19 g CO2‐C m−2 h−1 and from CC 14 g CO2‐C m−2 h−1. Respiration significantly dropped during the last week of composting and lower rates recorded with carbonized compared with the un‐carbonized feedstocks. Total CO2‐C losses were 12 kg m−2 34 d−1 for RH and 9 kg m−2 34 d−1 for cRH, resulting in a 29% reduction of CO2‐C. Emissions were 9 and 10 kg CO2‐C m−2 34 d−1 for cCC and CC, while cWO and WO emitted 7 and 8 kg CO2‐C m−2 34 d−1, respectively. Volatilization of NH3‐N was significantly lower in compost containing cWO (89 g N m−2 34 d−1) compared to WO (166 g N m−2 34 d−1), while N2O‐N emissions were lower in compost mixtures containing cRH (27%), cCC (7%), and cWO (16%) compared with their un‐carbonized feedstock.
Investigation of low molecular weight peptides (<1 kDa) in chicken meat and their contribution to meat flavor formation
Authors: Zhou Ruiyin , Grant Jennifer , Goldberg Erin M , Ryland Donna , Aliani Michel
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

Low molecular weight peptides (LMWPs) (<1 kDa) generated in meat during chilled conditioning can act as flavor precursors in the Maillard reaction with a potential contribution to key volatile organic compound (VOC) formation upon heating. Liquid chromatography/quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (LC/QTOF‐MS) successfully detected 44 LMWPs in chicken breast and thigh muscles stored at 4 °C for up to 6 days. Carnosine (350 mg per 100 g), glutathione (GSH, 20 mg per 100 g) (concentrations based on reported values in the literature) and cysteine glycine (Cys Gly, 5 mg per 100 g) (concentration based on results from LC/QTOF‐MS) were used in model systems containing ribose (25 mg per 100 g). The three model systems were heated at 180 °C for 2 h at pH 6.3. VOCs were measured by simultaneous distillation solvent extraction/gas chromatography/mass spectrometry.

RESULTS

Of 33 VOCs detected, 26 were significantly different (P ≤ 0.05) between the three peptides. The majority of nitrogen‐containing volatiles, pyrazines and pyridines, dominated the carnosine mixture, while sulfur‐containing VOCs dominated the GSH and Cys Gly peptide mixtures.

CONCLUSION

Known key aroma compounds such as thiazole (meaty), 2‐methyl‐3‐furanthiol (beef and meat), 2‐furfurylthiol (roasted), dihydro‐2‐methyl‐3(2H)‐thiophenone (meaty), 2‐acetylthiazole (meaty and roasted) and pyrazine (meaty) were detected under conditions specific to aged and thermally treated chicken, suggesting a potential contribution to the overall sensory quality of cooked meat. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Preparation, characterization and physicochemical properties of novel low‐phosphorus egg yolk protein
Authors: Long Jie , Wang Fang , Jiao Aiquan , Xu Xueming , Xie Zhengjun , Jin Zhengyu
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND

In order to supply adequate dietary protein for chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients while simultaneously controlling phosphorus intake, a novel method was developed for the preparation of low‐phosphorus egg yolk protein (LPYP) using alkaline protease auxiliary dephosphorization. In addition, the physicochemical properties of LPYP were studied.

RESULTS

In comparison with raw egg yolk protein (RYP) and defatted egg yolk protein (DFYP), LPYP was found to exhibit differences in amino acid (AA) composition, protein secondary structure, surface hydrophobicity, solubility and emulsion stability. It was observed that dephosphorization improved the AA composition, soluble protein content and dissolution stability of egg yolk protein. In addition, phosphate groups were found to impose a critical influence on the emulsion stability and particle size distribution. The final phosphorus to protein mass ratio (P/Pro) of LPYP was 5.64, which met the requirements of a protein diet for CKD patients. The FAO/WHO mode closeness and stability coefficient were 0.958 and 98.62% respectively.

CONCLUSION

LPYP can be effectively obtained by alkaline protease hydrolysis and subsequent alkali dephosphorization. The prepared LPYP can be considered to be a type of safe and suitable protein resource for CKD patients. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Conversion from temperate secondary forests into plantations (Larix spp.): Impact on belowground carbon and nutrient pools in northeastern China
Authors: Yang Kai , Zhu Jiaojun , Xu Shuang , Zheng Xiao
Published: September 2018

Conversions from natural broad‐leaved forests into conifer plantations have been increasing over the past half century worldwide, especially in China. However, the impacts of plantation afforestation on macronutrient and micronutrient pools combined with litter, soil, and roots have not been well quantified. We compared macronutrient and micronutrient pools in litter, fine roots, and at 0‐ to 80‐cm soil depths of paired secondary forests and larch plantations. The results showed that compared with natural forest soils, plantation soils exhibited lower concentrations and stocks of C, as well as lower fine root biomass at 0‐ to 10‐cm depth. In contrast, the K, Fe, Mn, and Cu pools in the larch plantations were greater by 27–44% for the 20‐ to 40‐cm depth. Furthermore, soil N, P, Ca, and Mg pools and stoichiometry of C/N/P in litter, soil, and fine roots did not differ significantly in the larch plantation relative to secondary forests. These results suggest that the conversion from secondary forests to larch plantations only decreases soil C pools but does not lead to reductions in other nutrient pools. Our results also showed that there were less C and nutrients in roots and more C and nutrients accumulated in litter of larch plantations compared with secondary forests. In conclusion, converting secondary forests to larch plantations changed the vertical distribution of C and nutrient pools in litter, soil, and root. The results suggest that C and nutrient pools in soils should be considered at levels below 40 cm in depth when evaluating C and nutrient change with afforestation.
Tripling the Capacity of Optical Vortices by Nonlinear Metasurface
Authors: Li Zhi , Liu Wenwei , Li Zhancheng , Tang Chengchun , Cheng Hua , Li Junjie , Chen Xianzhong , Chen Shuqi , Tian Jianguo
Published: September 2018

Optical vortices have emerged as a potential approach to enhance data capacity for its extra degree of freedom of orbital angular momentum. Although linear metasurfaces have been used to generate optical vortices, their capacity can be further increased by involving nonlinear frequency conversions, providing new channels for data storage. Here, by introducing second harmonic Pancharatnam–Berry phase, one linear and two second harmonic optical vortices with different topological charges focused into different focal lengths can be generated simultaneously from the proposed metasurface, which can store threefold optical vortices compared with the conventional linear geometric metasurfaces have been demonstrated. Besides, the 2D multifocal metalens with same strength for each focus emerged from the parabolic phase factor has been experimentally observed. This nonlinear optical vortex generation process represents a new strategy for enhancing the capacity of optical communications and multi‐channels integrated optical communications.
Campaign seeks to improve attorney MH, substance use issues
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: September 2018

In an effort to ensure the mental well‐being of the legal profession, and reduce the incidence of problematic substance use and mental health distress, the American Bar Association (ABA) has embarked on a new campaign that encourages law firms to take a seven‐point pledge, which includes policy practices and support from experts and resources, to support the initiative.
Poll finds more Americans would act to prevent suicide
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: September 2018

In observance of September as National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a survey released last week revealed that a majority of Americans say they would take action when faced with a specific situation of someone they know dealing with mental health or suicidal issues.
Split‐type octonion matrix
Authors: Bektaş Özcan
Published: September 2018

The split and hyperbolic (countercomplex) octonions are eight‐dimensional nonassociative algebras over the real numbers, which are in the form
, where em's
have different properties for them. The main purpose of this paper is to define the split‐type octonion and its matrix whose inputs are split‐type octonions and give some properties for them by using the real quaternions, split, and hyperbolic (countercomplex) octonions. On the other hand, to make some definitions, we present some operations on the split‐type octonions. Also, we show that every split‐type octonions can be represented by 2 × 2 real quaternion matrix and 4 × 4 complex number matrix. The information about the determinants of these matrix representations is also given. Besides, the main features of split‐type octonion matrix concept are given by using properties of  real quaternion matrices. Then, 8n × 8nreal matrix representations of split‐type octonion matrices are shown, and some algebraic structures are examined. Additionally, we introduce real quaternion adjoint matrices of split‐type octonion matrices. Moreover, necessary and sufficient conditions and definitions are given for split‐type octonion matrices to be special split‐type octonion matrices. We describe some special split‐type octonion matrices. Finally, oct‐determinant of split‐type octonion matrices is defined. Definitive and understandable examples of all definitions, theorems, and conclusions were given for a better understanding of all these concepts.
A regional bolus tracking and real‐time B1 calibration method for hyperpolarized 13C MRI
Authors: Tang Shuyu , Milshteyn Eugene , Reed Galen , Gordon Jeremy , Bok Robert , Zhu Xucheng , Zhu Zihan , Vigneron Daniel B. , Larson Peder E. Z.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Acquisition timing and B1 calibration are two key factors that affect the quality and accuracy of hyperpolarized 13C MRI. The goal of this project was to develop a new approach using regional bolus tracking to trigger Bloch‐Siegert B1 mapping and real‐time B1 calibration based on regional B1 measurements, followed by dynamic imaging of hyperpolarized 13C metabolites in vivo.

Methods

The proposed approach was implemented on a system which allows real‐time data processing and real‐time control on the sequence. Real‐time center frequency calibration upon the bolus arrival was also added. The feasibility of applying the proposed framework for in vivo hyperpolarized 13C imaging was tested on healthy rats, tumor‐bearing mice and a healthy volunteer on a clinical 3T scanner following hyperpolarized [1‐13C]pyruvate injection. Multichannel receive coils were used in the human study.

Results

Automatic acquisition timing based on either regional bolus peak or bolus arrival was achieved with the proposed framework. Reduced blurring artifacts in real‐time reconstructed images were observed with real‐time center frequency calibration. Real‐time computed B1 scaling factors agreed with real‐time acquired B1 maps. Flip angle correction using B1 maps results in a more consistent quantification of metabolic activity (i.e, pyruvate‐to‐lactate conversion, kPL). Experiment recordings are provided to demonstrate the real‐time actions during the experiment.

Conclusions

The proposed method was successfully demonstrated on animals and a human volunteer, and is anticipated to improve the efficient use of the hyperpolarized signal as well as the accuracy and robustness of hyperpolarized 13C imaging.
Scan‐specific robust artificial‐neural‐networks for k‐space interpolation (RAKI) reconstruction: Database‐free deep learning for fast imaging
Authors: Akçakaya Mehmet , Moeller Steen , Weingärtner Sebastian , Uğurbil Kâmil
Published: September 2018

Purpose

To develop an improved k‐space reconstruction method using scan‐specific deep learning that is trained on autocalibration signal (ACS) data.

Theory

Robust artificial‐neural‐networks for k‐space interpolation (RAKI) reconstruction trains convolutional neural networks on ACS data. This enables nonlinear estimation of missing k‐space lines from acquired k‐space data with improved noise resilience, as opposed to conventional linear k‐space interpolation‐based methods, such as GRAPPA, which are based on linear convolutional kernels.

Methods

The training algorithm is implemented using a mean square error loss function over the target points in the ACS region, using a gradient descent algorithm. The neural network contains 3 layers of convolutional operators, with 2 of these including nonlinear activation functions. The noise performance and reconstruction quality of the RAKI method was compared with GRAPPA in phantom, as well as in neurological and cardiac in vivo data sets.

Results

Phantom imaging shows that the proposed RAKI method outperforms GRAPPA at high (≥4) acceleration rates, both visually and quantitatively. Quantitative cardiac imaging shows improved noise resilience at high acceleration rates (rate 4:23% and rate 5:48%) over GRAPPA. The same trend of improved noise resilience is also observed in high‐resolution brain imaging at high acceleration rates.

Conclusion

The RAKI method offers a training database‐free deep learning approach for MRI reconstruction, with the potential to improve many existing reconstruction approaches, and is compatible with conventional data acquisition protocols.
Functional tractography of white matter by high angular resolution functional‐correlation imaging (HARFI)
Authors: Schilling Kurt G. , Gao Yurui , Li Muwei , Wu Tung‐Lin , Blaber Justin , Landman Bennett A. , Anderson Adam W. , Ding Zhaohua , Gore John C.
Published: September 2018

Purpose

Functional magnetic resonance imaging with BOLD contrast is widely used for detecting brain activity in the cortex. Recently, several studies have described anisotropic correlations of resting‐state BOLD signals between voxels in white matter (WM). These local WM correlations have been modeled as functional‐correlation tensors, are largely consistent with underlying WM fiber orientations derived from diffusion MRI, and appear to change during functional activity. However, functional‐correlation tensors have several limitations. The use of only nearest‐neighbor voxels makes functional‐correlation tensors sensitive to noise. Furthermore, adjacent voxels tend to have higher correlations than diagonal voxels, resulting in orientation‐related biases. Finally, the tensor model restricts functional correlations to an ellipsoidal bipolar‐symmetric shape, and precludes the ability to detect complex functional orientation distributions (FODs).

Methods

We introduce high‐angular‐resolution functional‐correlation imaging (HARFI) to address these limitations. In the same way that high‐angular‐resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI) techniques provide more information than diffusion tensors, we show that the HARFI model is capable of characterizing complex FODs expected to be present in WM.

Results

We demonstrate that the unique radial and angular sampling strategy eliminates orientation biases present in tensor models. We further show that HARFI FODs are able to reconstruct known WM pathways. Finally, we show that HARFI allows asymmetric “bending” and “fanning” distributions, and propose asymmetric and functional indices which may increase fiber tracking specificity, or highlight boundaries between functional regions.

Conclusions

The results suggest the HARFI model could be a robust, new way to evaluate anisotropic BOLD signal changes in WM.
Maternal High‐Fat Diet Effects on Adaptations to Metabolic Challenges in Male and Female Juvenile Nonhuman Primates
Authors: True Cadence , Dean Tyler , Takahashi Diana , Sullivan Elinor , Kievit Paul
Published: September 2018

Objective

This study aimed to determine whether maternal high‐fat diet (HFD) consumption in nonhuman primates alters the ability of offspring to adapt metabolically to nutrient and caloric challenges.

Methods

Offspring from Japanese macaque dams fed either a control (CTR) diet or HFD were weaned onto a CTR diet creating two groups: maternal HFD (mHFD, n = 18) and maternal CTR (mCTR) diet (n = 12). Male and female offspring were exposed to a 5‐day 30% calorie restriction and to a 35‐day HFD challenge (HFDC), at 16 and 24 months of age, respectively. Caloric intake, body weight, and energy expenditure were measured.

Results

Offspring from both groups showed similar body weight, food intake, and metabolic adaptations to a 5‐day calorie restriction. mHFD offspring demonstrated increased food intake and early weight gain in response to a 35‐day HFDC; however, group differences in weight dissipated during the challenge. Unlike mCTR animals, the mHFD group had a significant increase in fasting insulin after acute HFD exposure.

Conclusions

The current findings indicate that offspring exposed to an mHFD show metabolic adaptations to calorie restriction that are largely similar to those of offspring exposed to a mCTR diet but show delayed adaptation upon exposure to an acute HFDC.
Weight‐Related Terms Differentially Affect Self‐Efficacy and Perception of Obesity
Authors: Hopkins Christina M. , Bennett Gary G.
Published: September 2018

Objective

Little work has explored the effect of weight‐related terms on treatment initiation; only one study has investigated weight‐related terms and the psychological constructs associated with treatment uptake. The present study examines the effects of four common weight‐related terms on treatment initiation and the moderating effect of weight bias internalization.

Methods

Adult participants with overweight and obesity (n = 436) were recruited online and asked to read three vignettes describing clinical encounters; the weight‐related term (i.e., “weight,” “BMI,” “obesity,” or “fat”) was varied randomly. Participants then reported self‐efficacy, cognitive and emotional illness beliefs about obesity (i.e., illness perception), and interest in a weight loss program.

Results

The term “obesity” resulted in the greatest self‐efficacy and perceived control over obesity. “Fat” resulted in the least illness coherence (i.e., understanding of obesity). Weight bias internalization did not moderate the effect of term on self‐efficacy, nor did it moderate illness perception. No differences in weight loss program enrollment were observed.

Conclusions

Use of the term “obesity” may promote patients’ perceived control and self‐efficacy. Use of “fat” should be avoided. Results suggest that, despite patient and clinician preference for euphemistic weight terms, use of clinical language such as “obesity” may perform better in provider intervention.
Effects of Chronic NAD Supplementation on Energy Metabolism and Diurnal Rhythm in Obese Mice
Authors: Roh Eun , Myoung Kang Gil , Young Gil So , Hee Lee Chan , Kim Seongjun , Hong Dugu , Hoon Son Gi , Kim Min‐Seon
Published: September 2018

Objective

Adequate nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) content in hypothalamic neurons is critical for the maintenance of normal energy balance and circadian rhythm. In this study, the beneficial metabolic effects of chronic NAD supplementation on diet‐induced obesity and obesity‐related disruption of diurnal rhythms were examined.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were fed a high‐fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks and received an intraperitoneal injection of either saline or NAD (1 mg/kg/day) for the last 4 weeks. The control mice were fed a chow diet and injected with saline for the same period. Body weights were monitored daily. Daily rhythms of food intake, energy expenditure, and locomotor activity were measured at the end of NAD treatment. The effect of NAD treatment on the clock gene Period 1 (PER1) transcription was also studied.

Results

Chronic NAD supplementation significantly attenuated weight gain in HFD‐fed obese mice. Furthermore, NAD treatment recovered the suppressed rhythms in the diurnal locomotor activity patterns in obese mice. In addition, exogenous NAD supply rescued cellular NAD depletion‐induced suppression of PER1 transcriptional activity in hypothalamic neuron cells as well as blunted daily fluctuations of hypothalamic arcuate nucleus PER1 expression in obese mice.

Conclusions

NAD supplementation showed therapeutic effects in obese mice with altered diurnal behaviors.
Optimal power consumption for demand response of thermostatically controlled loads
Authors: Halder Abhishek , Geng Xinbo , Fontes Fernando A.C.C. , Kumar P.R. , Xie Le
Published: September 2018

We consider the problem of determining the optimal aggregate power consumption of a population of thermostatically controlled loads such as air conditioners. This is motivated by the need to synthesize the demand response for a load serving entity (LSE) catering a population of such customers. We show how the LSE can opportunistically design the aggregate reference consumption to minimize its energy procurement cost, given day‐ahead price, load forecast, and ambient temperature forecast, while respecting each individual load's comfort range constraints. The resulting synthesis problem is intractable when posed as a direct optimization problem after Euler discretization of the dynamics, since it results in a mixed‐integer linear programming problem with number of variables typically of the order of millions. In contrast, in this paper, we show that the problem is amenable to continuous‐time optimal control techniques. Numerical simulations elucidate how the LSE can use the optimal aggregate power consumption trajectory thus computed, for the purpose of demand response.
Hydrophobic and Melt Processable Starch‐Laurate Esters: Synthesis, Structure–Property Correlations
Authors: Ojogbo Ewomazino , Blanchard Rachel , Mekonnen Tizazu
Published: September 2018

A controlled esterification of starch to replace the OH moieties with bio‐derived medium chain fatty acids, and the changes in the polymer structure and properties for material applications is investigated in this research. The esterification is conducted via a homogeneous esterification process using an activated lauric acid (C12) in the presence of a base catalyst. The degree of esterification through the replacement of hydroxyl groups of starch was estimated using elemental analysis (EA) and proton NMR. The effect of the modification on the structural and material properties of the modified starch polymer is elucidated by evaluating the changes in morphology, network thermal stability, hydrophobicity, solubility profile, and thermal transition events. Scanning electron microscopy imaging reveals structural changes ranging from surface roughness to complete disruption depending on the degree of substitution. This is confirmed by XRD. Because of the esterification of starch, the resulting polymers become melt processable thermoplastic that forms a transparent film with an elastic storage modulus of up to 226 MPa at room temperature. This shows that the starch–fatty acid polymer can be used for various industrial and advanced material applications without any other plasticizers or modifiers. The final material is completely bio‐based, and is expected to be biodegradable in the environment. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2018, 56, 2611–2622
Inhaler screw‐up: A real world cystic fibrosis (CF) case
Authors: Arooj Parniya , Plant Robert , Doddakula Kishore , Plant Barry J.
Published: September 2018

A 40‐year‐old male with Cystic Fibrosis developed a sudden onset choking, cough, dyspnea and hemoptysis after using his inhaler. He presented to A&E. CT scan located a foreign body in his right bronchus intermedius (RBI). Rigid bronchoscopy was performed and removed a plastic rawl plug with screw from his RBI. He made a rapid recovery. On questioning he mentioned he had stored his inhaler uncapped in the same pocket he had this screw which he found at work. Small objects can lodge in inhalers due to their design/mouthpiece uncapping. This can result in endobronchial foreign body aspiration. This case highlights the importance of replacing inhaler cap when not in use.
A subgroup analysis to compare patients with acute low back pain classified as per treatment‐based classification
Authors: Ganesh G. Shankar , Sahu Pradeep Kumar , Das Sakti Prasad , Mishra Chittaranjan , Dhiman Sapna
Published: September 2018

Objectives

The evidence for the effectiveness of interventions targeting acute low back pain (LBP) is suboptimal. It is difficult to identify those patients who are more likely to develop chronic pain and disability after an acute episode of LBP. These shortcomings may be attributed to considering LBP as one homogenous condition.

Methods

In this quasi‐experimental study, we examined and analysed a prospective cohort of 267 patients with first‐onset LBP and classified them into one of the groups based on treatment‐based classification: direction‐specified exercises (Group 2), manipulation (Group 3), stabilization exercises (Group 4), traction (Group 5), and a physician care group (Group 1). Disability and pain were assessed at baseline, after treatment, and at 6 months using the Oswestry Disability Index and the Numerical Rating Scale, respectively. Comparisons were made between the groups, and we predicted measures of disability and pain intensity at 6 months with age, gender, fear avoidance behaviour, centralization phenomenon (CP), expectations about recovery, CP, group classification, baseline pain, and disability.

Results

Analysis showed that all the heterogeneous groups of LBP improved their outcomes with the respective treatment provided. However, when the entire sample was considered as one homogenous group of LBP, the results showed improvement with time (p < 0.05) only and no difference was found between groups (p > 0.05). None of the studied factors, except baseline pain (R = 0.227,R2 = 0.051,p < 0.05), were able to accurately predict the development of chronic pain in our study sample.

Conclusion

Though our results showed no differences between the subgroups in the reduction of pain and disability, we conclude that classifying and treating patients with LBP into subgroups based on signs and symptoms produce better outcomes. Baseline pain alone may predict a small percentage of people who may develop chronic pain.
Experimental Studies and Modeling of “Starlike” Plasmonic Nanostructures for SERS Application
Authors: Yukhymchuk Volodymyr O. , Hreshchuk Oleksandr M. , Dzhagan Volodymyr M. , Sakhno Mykola V. , Skoryk Mykola A. , Lavoryk Sergiy R. , Rudko Galyna Y. , Matveevskaya Neonila A. , Beynik Tatiana G. , Valakh Mykhailo Ya.
Published: September 2018

This work describes fabrication and characterization of two types of surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates based on starlike gold nanoparticles (NPs). Type I SERS substrates are formed by adsorption of gold nanoparticles from chemically synthesized colloidal solution onto the modified glass substrates. Type II SERS substrates are fabricated by the direct nucleation and growth of Au NPs on the modified glass substrates immersed in the precursors solution. Morphology, optical, and SERS characteristics of both types of substrates are studied. Study shows that by varying the diameters of nanostars cores and the lengths of their spikes during the synthesis one can tune the plasmon absorption peak position from visible to near‐infrared and achieve the resonance with most of common laser wavelengths. The measured SERS enhancement factors are equal to 105 and 106 for the substrates of type I and type II, respectively. The modeling of the electric field distribution in the vicinity of nanoparticles are done for exciting laser wavelengths varied in the range from 400 to 1000 nm. Calculated electric field distribution in the vicinity of Au NPs at different λexc correlates with the SERS enhancement factors obtained experimentally.
Sampled‐data leader‐following consensus of second‐order nonlinear multiagent systems without velocity measurements
Authors: Zou Wencheng , Guo Jian , Xiang Zhengrong
Published: September 2018

In this paper, the practical leader‐following consensus via the sampled‐data protocol is investigated for second‐order nonlinear multiagent systems with external disturbances, where the velocity information of all agents are assumed to be unmeasurable. The consensus problem of the multiagent system is first transformed to a stabilization problem of the constructed error system. Because of the unknown of the agents' velocities, an observer is then proposed for the constructed error system to estimate the velocity errors. By the backstepping approach, a new protocol is designed with only position measurements and sampled‐data information. Furthermore, the upper bound of the sampling period is given. It is proved that the practical leader‐following consensus can be achieved by the proposed sampled‐data protocol with a proper sampling period. The result is then extended to the multiagent systems with multiple leaders. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the designed protocols.
Improving the efficiency of individually randomized clinical trials by staggering the introduction of the intervention
Authors: Hooper Richard , Knowles Charles
Published: September 2018

In cluster randomized trials, the introduction of the intervention can be staggered in different clusters, leading to a stepped wedge design. This strategy can lead to gains in efficiency, which might also translate to the context of individually randomized trials, though this has been relatively unexplored. Here, we present one illustrative example. We consider trials in which participants start in a control condition such as routine care and can cross over at any stage to the active intervention. We make the assumption that the effect of the intervention is the same however long the delay before a participant crosses over to the intervention condition. We consider designs for a trial with three repeated assessments, including a baseline, and show that a three‐sequence design with staggered introduction of the intervention in two of the sequences estimates the treatment effect after one period more efficiently than a parallel groups design.
Highly Selective and Sensitive Luminescent Turn‐On Probe for Pyrophosphate Detection in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Zhang Shi‐Ting , Li Panpan , Kou Xingming , Xiao Dan
Published: September 2018

In this work, a luminescent probe (RuE, the abbreviation of Ru(bpy)2(E)Cl2, where bpy=2,2′‐bipyridine, E=N,N′‐5,6‐(1,10‐phenanthroline)‐bis(2‐hydroxy benzaldehyde)diamine) based on the ruthenium(II) bipyridyl complex conjugated with functionalized Schiff bases, which revealed a highly selective luminescence quenching by Cu2+ in aqueous solution was prepared. Because of the quenching effect of copper ions, the luminescence of RuE−Cu(II) solution was weak. However, in the presence of pyrophosphate (P 2O4‐ 7, PPi), the strong binding ability of PPi to Cu2+ can promote the break up of RuE−Cu(II) complex and then recover the luminescence. Most of other potential interfering anions, including strong interfering substance, like phosphate, ATP, ADP and AMP can not enhance the luminescence apparently. Therefore, the RuE−Cu(II) ensemble can act as an excellently selective and sensitive turn‐on probe for the sequential determination of PPi in aqueous solution. The detection limit of the probe for PPi was 0.58 nM and the linear concentration range was 0−16 μM. In addition, the potential applicability of this probe has been demonstrated by the successful detection of PPi in human urine samples.
Anatomical criteria to measure the adult right liver lobe by ultrasound
Authors: Riestra‐Candelaria Bárbara L. , Rodriguez‐Mojica Wilma , Jorge Juan Carlos
Published: September 2018

Introduction

This study aims to establish objective anatomical criteria to obtain accurate and reliable measurements of the right liver lobe (RLL) length by ultrasound while considering sex and anthropometry of the patient.

Methods

Thirty‐three (n = 33) adult participants underwent two‐dimensional (2D) and panoramic (PAN) ultrasound imaging of the RLL in the anterior axillary region. Each measurement was performed in the standard oblique plane and in a tested craniocaudal (CC) plane by two independent observers. Pearson analysis was conducted to evaluate correlation between measurements and intraclass correlation coefficient for inter‐rater reliability. Two‐tail paired t test was used to compare groups. Statistical significance was attained at p < 0.05.

Results

The proposed CC 2D RLL length was 13.0 ± 1.5 cm for women and 14.1 ± 1.3 cm for men whereas PAN RLL size was 13.7 ± 1.8 cm for women and 15.0 ± 1.1 cm for men. A strong correlation between the proposed 2D CC measurement of the RLL length with PAN CC measurements was found (r = 0.87). Inter‐rater reliability for 2D CC measurements showed high reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient 0.96).

Discussion

Craniocaudal measurement of RLL by ultrasound in anterior axillary region is a precise and reliable measurement that may allow for the routine monitoring of RLL length across time.