bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pharmacokinetics and bioavailability study of ginsenoside Rk1 in rat by liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Li Jian , Zhang Yongjie , Fan Ali , Li Geng , Liu Qingwang
Published: May 2019

Ginsenoside Rk1 (Rk1) exhibited various potent biological activities. However, its pharmacokinetic profile in vivo remains unclear. In the present study, a simple and sensitive liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry method was developed and validated for determination of Rk1 in rat plasma and applied in a pharmacokinetic study. The sample was precipitated with acetonitrile and separated on a Zorbax Eclipse XDB C18 column (50 × 2.1 mm, 1.8 μm). The mobile phase was composed of 0.1% formic acid in water and acetonitrile at a flow rate of 0.4 mL/min. Rk1 and internal standard (ginsenoside Rg3) were quantitatively monitored with precursor‐to‐product ion transitions of m/z 765.4 → 441.5 and m/z 783.5 → 621.4, respectively. The assay was linear over the concentration range of 5–1000 ng/mL (r > 0.99) with the LLOQ of 5 ng/mL. Other parameters including intra‐ and inter‐day precision and accuracy, extraction recovery and matrix effect were within the acceptable limits. The analyte was stable under the tested storage conditions. The validated method has been successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of Rk1 in rat plasma after intravenous (5 mg/kg) and oral (25 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg) administration. After oral administration, Rk1 could be detected in blood at 30 min and reached the highest concentration at 4.29~4.57 h. Our results demonstrated that Rk1 showed low clearance, moderate half‐life (3.09–3.40 h) and low bioavailability (2.87–4.23%). The study will provide information for the further application of Rk1.
Chemical composition database establishment and metabolite profiling analysis of Yangyin qingfei decoction
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Tang Yuqing , Yu Bocheng , Ying Jiaming , Wu Bingchu , Wu Jinyi , Zhao Jinshun , Chen Zhenjun , Xu Jinyan , Tang Chunlan
Published: May 2019

The chemical fingerprinting and metabolite profile in a rat plasma sample after intragastric administration of Yangyin qingfei decoction (YYQFD, 14 g/kg) were investigated. First, YYQFD was analyzed by UPLC/Q‐TOF MS to establish the chemical composition database by comparing their retention behavior, accurate molecular mass and MS2 data with those of references or known compounds in the literature. In this database, 100 chemical constituents with information on retention time, molecular mass, molecular formula, MS2 data and compound name were identified, which can provide compound information for further metabolite profiling studies. Furthermore, 64 compounds including 37 prototypes and 27 metabolites were detected in the dosed rat plasma sample, and the metabolic pathways of YYQFD were hydrolyzation, hydroxylation, dehydrogenation, glucuronidation, glucosylation, sulfation and mixed modes. Among the five component herbs in the YYQFD, Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizome and Fritillariae Thunbergii bulbs were actively metabolized, contributing 16 and 7 metabolites, respectively. It is suggested that chemical characterization and metabolite profiling studies are valuable to elucidate the material basis of herbal preparations.
Unexpected Contribution of Current Collector to the Cost of Rechargeable Al‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Muñoz‐Torrero David , Anderson Marc , Palma Jesús , Marcilla Rebeca , Ventosa Edgar
Published: May 2019

Rechargeable aluminum‐ion batteries (AIBs) are emerging as a promising energy storage technology. However, a series of issues will need to be addressed for the commercialization of AIBs. Anodic dissolution of cheap materials commonly used as cathode current collectors is a great challenge. At laboratory scale, this issue is solved by using expensive/scarce current collectors. The aim of our work is twofold. 1) To quantify the impact of the current collector in the battery cost by performing a cost analysis, which reveals that the current collector is currently the most expensive element in AIBs. 2) To propose the use of carbon‐based current collectors, such as gas diffusion layers (GDLs), which are shown to be an excellent option for AIBs. From an electrochemical perspective, the GDL does not corrode and does not catalyze electrolyte decomposition. Moreover, performances of AIBs using GDLs as current collectors are comparable to those using more expensive state‐of‐the‐art materials, while its use contributes to reducing battery costs.
COF‐Derived N,P Co‐Doped Carbon as a Metal‐Free Catalyst for Highly Efficient Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Yang Chao , Maenosono Shinya , Duan Jingui , Zhang Xiaobin
Published: May 2019

A new kind of metal‐free, porous, and N,P co‐doped carbon catalyst was prepared from a high crystalline and two dimensional (2D) covalent organic framework (COF). Remarkably, this N,P co‐doped catalyst exhibits an excellent tolerance towards methanol crossover, as well as a comparable oxygen reduction reaction performance to commercial Pt/C.
Color changes in wall paintings under the influence of consolidation with synthetic polymers
Authors: Bagniuk Jacek , Białek‐Kostecka Dorota , Forczek‐Sajdak Anna , Kaszowska Zofia , Skrzelowska Justyna
Published: May 2019

The aim of this study is to estimate changes of color of wall paintings under the influence of one of the basic conservation procedures, that is, paint layer consolidation due to degradation of the original binder. Since the 1960s, wall paintings have been consolidated almost routinely with synthetic polymers. As the research on the subject progressed, many flaws of these products were observed. Extensive research was conducted with the aim of determining the actual impact of synthetic binders on paint layer properties. The article discusses the results from only one group of tests associated with color change measurements. Three painting techniques were selected for the study, representing a variety of original techniques common in Poland: lime, lime casein, and animal glue, as well as five commercial synthetic products predominantly employed for painting consolidation by the Polish conservation community. We are focusing on color changes taking place as a result of consolidation and subsequent from the progress of degradation.
Improved skeletal muscle energy metabolism relates to the recovery of β cell function by intensive insulin therapy in drug naïve type 2 diabetes
Authors: Tang Wenjuan , Zhang Bing , Wang Huiting , Li Ming , Wang Hongdong , Liu Fangcen , Zhu Dalong , Bi Yan
Published: May 2019

Aims

Diminished energy turnover of skeletal muscle is involved in the development of type 2 diabetes. Intensive insulin therapy has been reported to maintain glycaemic control in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, while the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Herein, we aimed to characterize the contribution of muscular mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OxPhos) activity to insulin‐induced glycaemic control.

Materials and methods

There were 21 drug naïve patients with type 2 diabetes receiving continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion for 7 days. Nine nondiabetics matched for age, body mass index, and physical activity were recruited as controls. We applied 31P magnetic resonance spectroscopy to record in vivo muscular phosphocreatine (PCr) flux in controls and diabetics before and after insulin therapy. The mitochondrial OxPhos rate was calculated as ΔPCr / Δtime during the first 50 seconds after cessation of exercise.

Results

In drug naïve type 2 diabetes, muscular mitochondrial OxPhos rate was restored after insulin therapy. Notably, this alteration was positively associated with the improvements of 1,5‐anhydroglucitol, a serum marker for glucose control over the last 1 week, as well as homeostasis model assessment of β cell function and C‐peptide/glucose ratio t0, two indices for basal insulin secretion. Furthermore, patients with diabetes family history and more severe glucotoxicity tend to achieve greater improvement in mitochondrial function by insulin.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that intensive insulin therapy facilitates muscular energy metabolism in drug naïve type 2 diabetes. It correlates to the recovery of β cell function, contributing to insulin‐induced glucose control.
Gfi1‐GCE inducible Cre line for hair cell‐specific gene manipulation in mouse inner ear
Authors: Tang Qi , Xu Mei , Xu Jiadong , Xie Xiaoling , Yang Hua , Gan Lin
Published: May 2019

Tissue‐specific inducible Cre recombinase mouse lines allow precise genetic manipulations in spatiotemporal manners and are pivotal for functional studies of genes during development and in adults. Growth factor independence 1 (GFI1) is an essential transcription factor expressed in the hair cells of mouse inner ear and Gfi1 locus serves as an excellent anchor site to drive the expression of inducible Cre recombinase in mouse inner hair cells. In this study, we have generated Gfi1‐P2A‐GFP‐CreERT2 (Gfi1‐GCE) knock‐in mouse line by in‐frame fusion of a self‐cleaving GCE to the C‐terminus of GFI1. We have shown that as predicted, the expression of GCE and GFI1 was detected specifically in the cytosol and nuclei of hair cells, respectively, of uninduced Gfi1‐GCE mice, suggesting the successful cleavage and simultaneous expression of GFI1 and GCE. In addition, the in‐frame fusion of the self‐cleaving GCE does not interrupt the function of Gfi1 in the inner ear. Administration of tamoxifen leads to nuclear translocation of GCE and results in an efficient activation of tdTomato reporter gene expression specifically in most hair cells throughout development and in adults. Thus, this inducible Gfi1‐GCE mouse line is a highly efficient Cre deleter and is suitable for gene manipulation in developing and adult inner ear hair cells.
Thermal performance of battery thermal management system using composite matrix coupled with mini‐channel
Authors: Rao Zhonghao , Wen Yiping , Zhao Jiateng
Published: May 2019

In order to improve cycle life and the working performance of the Li‐ion batteries and the reliability of battery thermal management (BTM) system, a composite matrix coupled with mini‐channel based BTM system is designed in this paper. The thermal performances of the BTM system at different discharge rates under the condition of air natural convection (ANC) and composite matrix (CM) are studied. The results show that the thermal conductivity of the PCMs/EG composites is about 28 times larger than the pure PCMs. Meanwhile, the latent heat is 134.28 J/g after adding EG. The batteries possess larger heat production both at larger state of charge (SOC) and lower SOC. Compared with ANC system, the highest temperature and the ΔTmax of the battery modules with CM system at the discharge rates of 3 C are 40.5°C and 2.4°C, respectively. When the battery modules coupled with mini‐channel, the 6 cooling channels with the inlet mass flow rate at 2 × 10−3 kg/s has the best cooling performance. The highest temperature of the packs could be controlled below 40.1°C and the ΔTmax is no more than 1.4°C during the cycle process at the discharge rate of 3 C(I = 30 Ah).
Neural processing of social interaction: Coordinate‐based meta‐analytic evidence from human neuroimaging studies
Authors: Arioli Maria , Canessa Nicola
Published: May 2019

While the action observation and mentalizing networks are considered to play complementary roles in understanding others' goals and intentions, they might be concurrently engaged when processing social interactions. We assessed this hypothesis via three activation‐likelihood‐estimation meta‐analyses of neuroimaging studies on the neural processing of: (a) social interactions, (b) individual actions by the action observation network, and (c) mental states by the mentalizing network. Conjunction analyses and direct comparisons unveiled overlapping and specific regions among the resulting maps. We report quantitative meta‐analytic evidence for a “social interaction network” including key nodes of the action observation and mentalizing networks. An action–social interaction‐mentalizing gradient of activity along the posterior temporal cortex highlighted a hierarchical processing of interactions, from visuomotor analyses decoding individual and shared intentions to in‐depth inferences on actors' intentional states. The medial prefrontal cortex, possibly in conjunction with the amygdala, might provide additional information concerning the affective valence of the interaction. This evidence suggests that the functional architecture underlying the neural processing of interactions involves the joint involvement of the action observation and mentalizing networks. These data might inform the design of rehabilitative treatments for social cognition disorders in pathological conditions, and the assessment of their outcome in randomized controlled trials.
Lifestyle and cancer incidence and mortality risk depending on family history of cancer in two prospective cohorts
Authors: Drake Isabel , Dias Joana Alves , Teleka Stanley , Stocks Tanja , Orho‐Melander Marju
Published: May 2019

The extent to which a favorable lifestyle may lower cancer risk in subjects with a family history of cancer is unknown. We conducted a prospective study in two Swedish cohorts, the Malmö Diet and Cancer Study (MDCS; n = 25,604) and the Malmö Preventive Project (MPP; n = 16,216). The association between a favorable lifestyle (based on nonsmoking, normal weight, absence of excessive drinking, regular physical activity and healthy diet) and cancer incidence and mortality risk was assessed using Cox regression stratified by family history of cancer (all types). A favorable lifestyle was associated with a 22% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18–26%) and 40% (95% CI: 36–44%) lower risk of cancer incidence and mortality, respectively, compared to an unfavorable lifestyle. No significant effect modification by family history was observed but there was a null association between lifestyle and cancer incidence among subjects with two or more affected first‐degree relatives. The observed relative risk estimates comparing an unfavorable with a favorable lifestyle corresponded to standardized 10‐year cancer incidence rates of 11.2 vs. 9.5% in the MDCS, and 4.4 vs. 3.2% in the MPP, and a reduction in 20‐year cancer mortality rate from 11.7% to 7.4% in the MDCS and 6.7% to 3.9% in the MPP. Improved adherence to cancer prevention recommendations may reduce cancer incidence and mortality risk in the general population, however, further studies are needed to assess the impact of lifestyle on cancer incidence among subjects with strong familial or polygenic risk for specific cancers.
Convergent evolution of the lateral line system in Apogonidae (Teleostei: Percomorpha) determined from innervation
Authors: Sato Mao , Nakae Masanori , Sasaki Kunio
Published: May 2019

The lateral line system and its innervation were examined in two species of the family Apogonidae (Cercamia eremia [Apogoninae] and Pseudamia gelatinosa [Pseudamiinae]). Both species were characterized by numerous superficial neuromasts (SNs; total 2,717 in C. eremia; 9,650 in P. gelatinosa), including rows on the dorsal and ventral halves of the trunk, associated with one (in C. eremia) and three (in P. gelatinosa) reduced trunk canals. The pattern of SN innervation clearly demonstrated that the overall pattern of SN distribution had evolved convergently in the two species. In C. eremia, SN rows over the entire trunk were innervated by elongated branches of the dorsal longitudinal collector nerve (DLCN) anteriorly and lateral ramus posteriorly. In P. gelatinosa, the innervation pattern of the DLCN was mirrored on the ventral half of the trunk (ventral longitudinal collector nerve: VLCN). Elongated branches of the DLCN and VLCN innervated SN rows on the dorsal and ventral halves of the trunk, respectively. The reduced trunk canal(s) apparently had no direct relationship with the increase of SNs, because these branches originated deep to the lateral line scales, none innervating canal neuromast (CN) homologues on the surface of the scales. In P. gelatinosa, a CN (or an SN row: CN homologue) occurred on every other one of their small lateral line scales, while congeners (P. hayashii and P. zonata) had an SN row (CN homologue) on every one of their large lateral line scales.
Ungated nonenhanced radial quiescent interval slice‐selective (QISS) magnetic resonance angiography of the neck: Evaluation of image quality
Authors: Koktzoglou Ioannis , Aherne Emily A. , Walker Matthew T. , Meyer Joel R. , Edelman Robert R.
Published: May 2019

Background

Standard‐of‐care time‐of‐flight (TOF) techniques for nonenhanced magnetic resonance angiography (NEMRA) of the carotid bifurcation and other cervical arteries often provide nondiagnostic image quality due to motion and flow artifacts.

Purpose

To perform an initial evaluation of an ungated radial quiescent‐interval slice‐selective (QISS) technique for NEMRA of the neck, in comparison with 2D TOF and contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CEMRA).

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Sixty patients referred for neck MR angiography.

Field Strength/Sequence

Ungated radial QISS at 3T.

Assessment

Three radiologists scored image quality of 18 arterial segments using a 4‐point scale (1, nondiagnostic; 2, fair; 3, good; 4, excellent), and two radiologists graded proximal internal carotid stenosis using five categories (<50%, 50–69%, 70–99%, occlusion, nondiagnostic).

Statistical Tests

Friedman tests with post‐hoc Wilcoxon signed‐rank tests; unweighted Gwet's AC1 statistic; tests for equality of proportions.

Results

Ungated radial QISS provided image quality that significantly exceeded 2D TOF (mean scores of 2.7 vs. 2.0, 2.7 vs. 2.2, and 2.9 vs. 2.3; P < 0.001, all comparisons), while CEMRA provided the best image quality (mean scores of 3.6, 3.7, and 3.5 for the three reviewers). Interrater agreement of image quality scores was substantial for CEMRA (AC1 = 0.70, P < 0.001), and moderate for QISS (AC1 = 0.43, P < 0.001) and TOF (AC1 = 0.41, P < 0.001). Compared with TOF, QISS NEMRA provided a significantly higher percentage of diagnostic segments for all three reviewers (91.0% vs. 71.7%, 93.5% vs. 72.9%, 95.5% vs. 85.2%; P < 0.0001) and demonstrated better agreement with CEMRA for grading of proximal internal carotid stenosis (AC1 = 0.94 vs. 0.73 for reviewer 1, P < 0.05; AC1 = 0.89 vs. 0.68 for reviewer 2, P < 0.05).

Data Conclusion

In this initial study, ungated radial QISS significantly outperformed 2D TOF for the evaluation of the neck arteries, with overall better image quality and more diagnostic arterial segments, and improved agreement with CEMRA for grading stenosis of the proximal internal carotid artery.

Level of Evidence: 3

Technical Efficacy: Stage 1

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:1798–1807.
Individual differences in science competence among students are associated with ventrolateral prefrontal cortex activation
Authors: Allaire‐Duquette Geneviève , Bélanger Michel , Grabner Roland H. , Koschutnig Karl , Masson Steve
Published: May 2019

Functional neuroimaging studies have revealed that, compared with novices, science experts show increased activation in dorsolateral and ventrolateral prefrontal brain areas associated with inhibitory control mechanisms when providing scientifically valid responses in tasks related to electricity and mechanics. However, no study thus far has explored the relationship between activation of the key brain regions involved in inhibitory control mechanisms, namely the ventrolateral prefrontal cortex (VLPC) and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPC), and individual differences in conceptual science competence, while controlling for scientific training. In the present study, 24 secondary school students (11 female participants, 13 male participants) were selected from a larger pool based on their performance on a conceptual science questionnaire and were divided into groups with low and high conceptual science competence. In an fMRI block design, participants had to verify the correctness (true or false) of congruent and incongruent statements. In congruent statements, both spontaneous and scientific conceptions about given natural phenomena lead to a scientifically appropriate judgment. However, in incongruent statements, commonly held spontaneous conceptions about natural phenomena lead to a scientifically inappropriate judgment. The interaction effect reveals that students with higher conceptual science competence display stronger activation of the left VLPC and DLPC in incongruent trials than in congruent trials. These findings show that activation of the VLPC and DLPC when reasoning in incongruent situations underlies individual differences in conceptual science competence, and suggests stronger recruitment of inhibitory control mechanisms in more competent individuals.
Phenolic acids of modern and ancient grains: Effect on in vitro cell model
Authors: Truzzi Francesca , Dinelli Giovanni , Spisni Enzo , Simonetti Emanuela , Trebbi Grazia , Bosi Sara , Marotti Ilaria
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

The gastrointestinal tract establishes a barrier between the external and internal compartments. When this barrier is disrupted, an inflammatory cascade promotes intestinal inflammation and the development of several intestinal diseases. Plant‐derived polyphenols are health‐promoting phytochemicals with a role in the regulation of the intestinal barrier and in the prevention of intestinal inflammatory diseases. Modern wheat‐breeding programs have been focused primarily on yield improvement rather than nutritional and functional proprieties. Research that aims to characterize the phytochemical profile of wheat varieties and their healthy proprieties could therefore provide new prospects for the genetic improvement of the genus Triticum.

In the present work, the effects of phenolic compounds extracted from nine soft and seven durum wheat varieties were studied for their polyphenol content and antioxidant activity. Experiments were conducted to study their effects on cell proliferation and wound healing in three different cell lines: mouse fibroblasts (L929), intestinal human cells (Caco2), and human monocytes (U937).

RESULTS

Discriminant analysis evidenced differences between soft and durum wheat phenolic compounds. Among the soft varieties, it was possible to identify clusters in which ancient wheat varieties showed different properties from modern ones, whereas no evident clusters were detected among durum varieties.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, these results suggest that the selection of specific wheat grains based on their nutritional parameters will help in the design of diets with protective effects against chronic and inflammatory diseases. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Selection of mutants with high linolenic acid contents and characterization of fatty acid desaturase 2 and 3 genes during seed development in soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: Hong Min Jeong , Jang Young Eun , Kim Dong‐Gun , Kim Jung Min , Lee Min‐Kyu , Kim Jin‐Baek , Eom Seok Hyun , Ha Bo‐Keun , Lyu Jae Il , Kwon Soon‐Jae
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Soybean seeds contain 18–24% lipids, which are made up of 85% polyunsaturated fatty acids. Two of these (linoleic and linolenic acids) comprise essential fatty acids that are not synthesized in humans and animals. Linolenic acid plays a vital role in the maintenance of brain function and is a source of docosahexaenoic acid for retinal and nerve tissue, with its physiological functions being a focus of attention.

RESULTS

We developed mutant soybean populations via gamma irradiation of Korean cultivars Danbaek and Daepung and evaluated the linolenic acid content of 78 and 154 M9 mutant progenies. We selected the four mutant lines with the highest linolenic acid contents based on 2 years of investigation of fatty acids. The selected mutant lines had linolenic acid contents that were 33.9% to 67.7% higher than those of the original cultivars and exhibited increased fatty acid desaturase (FAD) gene expression levels during seed development. We also identified nucleotide polymorphisms of FAD genes in the four mutant lines.

CONCLUSION

The present study found that linolenic acid content is related to significantly increased expression levels of the FAD3C and FAD3D genes in the endoplasmic reticulum, which was uncovered by radiation mutation breeding of soybean. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Reducing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon contamination in smoked fish in the Global South: a case study of an improved kiln in Ghana
Authors: Bomfeh Kennedy , Jacxsens Liesbeth , Amoa‐Awua Wisdom Kofi , Tandoh Isabella , Afoakwa Emmanuel Ohene , Gamarro Esther Garrido , Ouadi Yvette Diei , De Meulenaer Bruno
Published: May 2019

BACKGROUND

Smoked fish is a major source of animal protein in developing countries. It is largely produced by hot‐smoking on traditional kilns using fuelwood. This practice is associated with high polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination in products, with consequences for public health. An improved kiln, comprising the FAO‐Thiaroye Technique (FTT), has been introduced by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations to address such a concern. The present study investigated the efficacy of the FTT in Ghana through comparative fish smoking experiments with traditional kilns followed by determination of PAH levels [benzo(a)pyrene (BaP) and PAH4] in the products by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. For each kiln, the effect of smoking fuel type on PAH contamination was determined. The impact of the design characteristics of the FTT on the levels of the compounds was also determined.

RESULTS

Mean BaP and PAH4 levels in the FTT products were up to 1.8 and 7.6 μg kg–1, respectively, whereas the corresponding levels in traditional kiln products were up to 70 and 395 μg kg–1. PAH levels in FTT products were below European Union regulatory limits, whereas levels in traditional kiln products exceed such limits by up to 33‐fold. Across kiln types, the use of wood fuels caused higher PAH contamination compared to the use of fully‐lit charcoal as an alternative fuel.

CONCLUSION

The improved kiln (FTT) is efficacious in yielding smoked fish with a PAH content lower than the levels in traditional kiln products and also below current regulatory limits. Kiln design and type of processing fuel have significant impacts on PAH contamination during fish smoking. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry
Habitat selection and spatiotemporal interactions of a reintroduced mesocarnivore
Authors: Parsons Mitchell A. , Lewis Jeffrey C. , Gardner Beth , Chestnut Tara , Ransom Jason I. , Werntz David O. , Prugh Laura R.
Published: May 2019

Habitat quality and quantity are key factors in evaluating the potential for success of a wildlife translocation. However, because of the difficulty or cost of evaluating these factors, habitat assessments may not include valuable information on important habitat attributes including the abundance and distribution of prey, predators, and competitors. Fishers (Pekania pennanti) are one of the most commonly reintroduced carnivores in North America, and they are a species of conservation concern in their western range. We examined the relative importance of landscape features and species interactions in determining habitat use of a reintroduced population of fishers in the southern Cascade Mountains, Washington, USA. We used detections of prey and predators at 134 remote camera stations, remotely sensed forest structure data, and telemetry locations of fishers in a resource selection function to assess the relative importance of prey, predators, and forest structure in fisher habitat selection. Fishers selected habitats based on forest conditions and activity levels of snowshoe hares (Lepus americanus), whereas bobcat (Lynx rufus) and coyote (Canis latrans) activity levels did not directly affect habitat selection. The probability of fisher use increased in older stands, close to recently disturbed stands, and in areas with intermediate levels of hare activity. Bobcat and hare activity levels were positively correlated, and fishers avoided areas with the greatest hare activity, suggesting that fishers may experience a food‐safety tradeoff in the study area. Temporal activity patterns in photo detections indicate that fishers may mediate this danger by avoiding bobcats temporally. Our findings suggest that fishers in Washington prefer habitat mosaics of old and recently disturbed stands where they have greater access to resting structures and hares. Management that maintains mosaics of young and old forest across large landscapes is likely to support fisher recovery. Future reintroduction efforts would benefit from an assessment of prey and predator abundance in proposed reintroduction areas before project initiation. © 2019 The Wildlife Society.
Nodal and distant metastases in sinonasal mucosal melanoma: A population‐based analysis
Authors: Low Christopher M. , Price Daniel L. , Moore Eric J. , Stokken Janalee K. , Van Abel Kathryn M. , Janus Jeffrey R. , Choby Garret
Published: May 2019

Objectives/Hypothesis

Sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) is a rare malignant neoplasm. No study to date has analyzed the impact that nodal metastases and distant metastases at diagnosis have on overall survival (OS) and disease‐specific survival (DSS).

Study Design

Retrospective database review.

Methods

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database was queried for cases of SNMM. Descriptive statistics were used analyze patient demographic and clinicopathologic variables. The Kaplan‐Meier model was used to analyze survival, and the Cox proportional hazards model was used for multivariate analysis.

Results

Three hundred twenty‐eight cases of SNMM were identified. The most frequent sinonasal anatomic location was the nasal cavity in 279 (73.0%) patients, followed by the maxillary sinus in 60 (15.7%) patients. Regional nodal metastases at diagnosis occurred in 33 (8.6%) patients, whereas distant metastases at diagnosis occurred in 41 (10.7%) patients. Five‐year OS was 22.7%, and 5‐year DSS was 26.8%. The presence of positive nodes at diagnosis (OS P < .0001, DSS P < .0001), distant metastases at diagnosis (OS P = .0442, DSS P = .0442), primary tumor site (OS P < .0001, DSS P < .0001), and increasing age (OS P = .0012, DSS P = .0016) were found to be significant as negative predictors of OS and DSS.

Conclusions

SNMM is a rare pathologic entity with a poor prognosis. The presence of nodal and distant metastases at diagnosis are negative prognostic factors in OS and DSS. These factors can be used in the development of new models of risk stratification and to inform treatment strategies and surveillance patterns.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 130:622–627, 2020
An empirically validated method for characterizing pelagic habitats in the Gulf of Mexico using ocean model data
Authors: Johnston Matthew W. , Milligan Rosanna J. , Easson Cole G. , deRada Sergio , English David C. , Penta Bradley , Sutton Tracey T.
Published: May 2019

Mesoscale oceanic features such as eddies generate considerable environmental heterogeneity within the pelagic oceans, but their transient nature makes it difficult to identify both their spatial and temporal extent and their effects on the distribution of pelagic fauna. Simplifying these complex features using a biologically meaningful classification system will likely be a useful first step in understanding the extent of their influence in structuring open‐ocean ecosystems. In this study, we present a tool to classify the pelagic environment in the Gulf of Mexico using sea‐surface height and temperature‐at‐depth data from the 1/25° GOM HYbrid Coordinate Ocean Model (HYCOM). Three “water types” were identified: Loop Current‐origin water (LCOW), Gulf common water (CW), and mixed (MIX) water, where the latter represents an intermediate state during the degradation of LCOW to CW. The HYCOM‐derived classifications were validated against in situ CTD data and microbial samples collected through 2015–2016 by the Deep Pelagic Nekton Dynamics of the Gulf of Mexico (DEEPEND) consortium. The validation data comprised classifications derived from both temperature‐depth (TD) and temperature‐salinity (TS) profiles and from microbial community analyses from the surface to mesopelagic depths. The HYCOM classifications produced an overall agreement rate of 77% with the TS/TD classifications, and 79% with the microbial classifications. With applicability across a wide range of spatial and temporal scales, we believe that the system provides a useful, complementary tool for biological oceanographers and resource managers interested in better understanding the effects of major mesoscale features on the pelagic biota.
Thermal properties and degradation of polytetrafluoroethylene low‐molecular fractions
Authors: Ignatieva Lidia N. , Mashchenko Vadim A.
Published: May 2019

The present article describes the results of studies of the peculiarities of thermal behavior and degradation of low‐molecular fractions obtained by sublimation of the powder ultradispersed polytetrafluoroethylene under isothermal conditions at 50°C–100°C. The peculiarities of fractions transition into the gas phase at heating were studied with IR spectroscopy method and interpreted based on the quantum‐chemical calculations of the model fluorocarboned molecules. The calculation and spectroscopic data provide grounds to assume the presence of small molecules and radical structures in gas phase. The radical fragments formed in the gas phase as a result of the polymer chains thermal destruction provide the structure recovery during the subsequent condensation of the sample. A new averaged powder fraction is formed during condensation. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 59:2413–2417, 2019. © 2019 Society of Plastics Engineers
Five years of NMDA receptor antibody testing in a psychiatric hospital
Authors: Sheldon Rollo , Davies Sarah , McNulty Jane
Published: May 2019

Antibodies to the N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor have been recently described in psychiatric patients in the last decade, but uncertainty as to whom should be tested is common. Here, the authors describe the clinical characteristics of patients who have been tested over five years in a psychiatric hospital, and compare this with the current literature.
Validity, reliability, and feasibility of the Brief School Needs Inventory: Evaluating educational risk for students with chronic health conditions
Authors: Elam Megan , Murphy Christel , Irwin Mary Kay
Published: May 2019

Objective

Researchers have increasingly emphasized the need to include routine educational and cognitive screening in the care plan for youth with chronic health conditions. Prior to now, a screener did not exist to asses risk/need in education in the pediatric setting; thus, this research aimed to examine the validity, reliability, and feasibility of the newly developed Brief School Needs Inventory (BSNI), which stratifies a patients level of educational risk/need in the context of a health condition.

Methods

The authors developed and pilot‐tested two versions of an education risk screener utilizing a mixed‐methods design, which included an expert panel review process and assessments for validity, reliability, and feasibility.

Results

Ninety‐eight school‐age survivors of an oncologic disease were assessed for educational risk. Participants were assigned to two groups and administered either the initial (n = 48) or revised (n = 50) version of the screener. The final version of the screener, the BSNI, predicted educational risk in congruence with school liaisons perceived risk assessment with 94% accuracy. Liaisons also reported confidence in the results of 98% of cases for the BSNI. Similarly, expert panel results for the BSNI indicated a high degree of interrater agreement and content validity.

Conclusions

The BSNI was found to be a valid and reliable screener for predicting educational risk for youth with oncologic conditions; future studies will examine use of the screener within other pediatric chronic populations.
Wave‐Vector‐Dependent Raman Scattering from Coupled Plasmon–Longitudinal Optical Phonon Modes and Fano Resonance in n‐type Scandium Nitride
Authors: Maurya Krishna Chand , Biswas Bidesh , Garbrecht Magnus , Saha Bivas
Published: May 2019

Raman scattering from coupled plasmon–longitudinal optical (LO) phonon modes in polar semiconductors is an effective tool to determine electronic properties, such as carrier concentration, mobility, carrier freeze‐out, relaxation times, etc., as well as to understand different types of electron (hole)–phonon interactions. The physics of such coupling mechanism traditionally utilizes the Drude dielectric permittivity that predicts an increase in coupled plasmon–LO phonon mode (LPP+) frequencies with an increase in carrier concentrations. Herein, it is demonstrated that for n‐type epitaxial scandium nitride (ScN) thin films, the frequencies of the coupled plasmon–LO phonon Raman modes exhibit red‐shift with increasing carrier concentrations, which is contrary to the predictions from the Drude theory. Utilizing the generalized Lindhard dielectric function that considers both the frequency and wave‐vector components of free‐electron plasma, it is demonstrated that such a decrease in the frequencies of the coupled plasmon–LO phonon mode in Raman spectra is related to the nonconserved wave vectors due to inelastic scattering from magnesium (Mg) impurities. Modeling of the experimental Raman line shape, intensity, and frequencies illustrates that the wave‐vector dependence of the coupled modes decreases with increasing electron concentrations. An asymmetric broadening of LO Raman modes is observed in films having large electron concentrations (>1020 cm−3) that are explained by Fano resonance.
U.S. presidential cycles and the foreign exchange market
Authors: Ashour Samar , Rakowski David A. , Sarkar Salil K.
Published: May 2019

We examine the association between the foreign exchange rate of the US dollar and US presidential cycles. Results show that Republican presidencies tend to start with a strong dollar, which then depreciates over the course of the presidency. In contrast, Democratic presidencies tend to begin with a weak dollar that then appreciates. These patterns result in an apparent presidential effect in US foreign exchange rates, the direction of which depends on whether exchange rates are measured by levels or by returns.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction in a Rabbit Model Using a Decellularized Allogenic Semitendinous Tendon Combined with Autologous Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Lu Wei , Xu Jian , Dong Shikui , Xie Guoming , Yang Shuanghui , Huangfu Xiaoqiao , Li Xiaoxi , Zhang Yang , Shen Peng , Yan Zhaowen , Liu Haifeng , Deng Zhenhan , Zhao Jinzhong
Published: May 2019

As a regular adoptable material for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, free tendon allograft exhibits unsatisfactory outcomes, such as retarded ligamentization and tendon–bone integration. The application of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), as well as a decellularized free tendon allograft developed by our group, was proven to be effective in improving ACL reconstruction results. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy and feasibility of decellularized allogenic semitendinous tendon (ST) combined with autologous BMSCs used as a substitute to free tendon allograft in a rabbit model. This study finally shows that the decellularized allogenic ST combined with autologous BMSCs could significantly improve ACL reconstruction results compared with allograft. Stem Cells Translational Medicine  2019;8:971–982
Rethinking Racine v Woods from a Decolonizing Perspective: Challenging the Applicability of Attachment Theory to Indigenous Families Involved with Child Protection
Authors: Choate Peter W. , Kohler Taylor , Cloete Felicia , CrazyBull Brandy , Lindstrom Desi , Tatoulis Parker
Published: May 2019

The 1983 case Racine v Woods is the leading child protection case from the Supreme Court of Canada, distinguishing bonding and/or attachment as a more important determinant of best interest for an Indigenous child than cultural connection. Using this case, courts are upholding the permanent placement of Indigenous children in non-Indigenous homes as opposed to placement within their culture. Racine v Woods reflected knowledge of attachment and family at that time but runs counter to current knowledge. Reconsideration of the factors to decide cross-cultural adoption is needed. The essential point is that attachment assessment draws from a dyadic relational theory and is being applied to communal family systems, such as Indigenous systems. Such a review is consistent with the calls to action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) as well as its predecessor, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples (RCAP), and recent Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) decisions.
Correspondence
Authors: Broches Aron , Popović Neil A. F.
Published: May 2019

The American Journal of International Law welcomes short communications from its readers. It reserves the right to determine which letters should be published and to edit any letters printed. Letters should conform to the same format requirements as other manuscripts.
Effect of dietary phytic acid on zinc absorption in the healthy elderly, as assessed by serum concentration curve tests
Authors: Couzy François , Mansourian Robert , Labate Arielle , Guinchard Sylvie , Montagne Dirk H. , Dirren Henri
Published: May 2019

Zn absorption was investigated in healthy elderly subjects aged 71–78 years and in young subjects aged 23–43 years using serum concentration curve (SCC) tests. Both groups had similar Zn and protein status. The increase in serum Zn was monitored for 180 min after ingestion of 200ml of soya milk enriched with 50mg of Zn. Three levels of phytic acid were used: 0g/200ml (totally dephytinized soya milk), 0.13 g/200ml (half dephytinized), and 0.26 g/200ml (natural phytic acid content). In a first study the effect of 0v.0.26 g/200 ml phytic acid was compared in 10 elderly and 10 young subjects, each subject receiving both treatments. In a second study soya milks with 0 and 0.13 g/200ml were tested in nine elderly and ten young subjects, again receiving both treatments. Mean areas under the curve of the SCC tests conducted with the 0 g/200 ml soya milk were found to be the same in both studies. Phytic acid strongly depressed Zn absorption in both studies (P≤ 0.05), but to a greater extent at the 0.26 g/200ml level. No difference was found between the groups of young and elderly subjects. Therefore, no significant effect of aging on Zn absorption, as evaluated by the SCC test, or on the inhibitory effect of phytic acid was detected.
The bioavailability of α- and β-carotene is affected by gut microflora in the rat
Authors: Grolier P. , Borel P. , Duszka C. , Lory S. , Alexandre-Gouabau M. C. , Azais-Braesco V. , Nugon-Baudon L.
Published: May 2019

The present study examined whether the intestinal microflora could affect the bioavailability and vitamin A activity of dietary α- and β-carotene in the rat. In the first set of experiments, we used conventional, germ-free (axenic), and human-flora-associated (heteroxenic) rats. In a second series, conventional rats were treated with either an antibiotic mixture or a potent inhibitor of gastric secretion (Omeprazole). All animals were first depleted of vitamin A over 4 weeks and then were fed on a sterilized diet supplemented with 14 mg β-carotene and 3 mg α-carotene/kg for 2 weeks. In both experiments, a reduction in the intestinal microflora resulted in an increased storage of β-carotene, α-carotene and vitamin A in the liver. Neither the nature of the metabolism of the intestinal microflora (aerobic or anaerobic) nor treatment with omeprazole, to modify intestinal pH, induced a significant effect on the measured variables. When incubated with 15 μmol β-carotene/l for 72 h, neither the anaerobic nor the aerobic sub-fractions obtained from rat or human faeces contributed to β-carotene degradation or to vitamin A synthesis. These findings suggest that reduction in gut microflora results in a better utilization of α- and β-carotene by rats, although bacteria do not have a direct effect on the bioavailability of these pigments.
New Zealand Court of Appeal: Judgment in Controller and Auditor–General V. Sir Ronald Dawson
Authors: Bvers Michael
Published: May 2019

On February 16, 1996 the New Zealand Court of Appeal rendered judgment on three applications for judicial review arising out of what had come to be known in New Zealand as the “Winebox Inquiry”. The Inquiry began as the result of certain documents being tabled (in a winebox) before the New Zealand House of Representatives. It was alleged that the documents implicated several New Zealand companies in the evasion of New Zealand income tax by the use of the Cook Islands as a tax haven, and that the New Zealand Inland Revenue Department and Serious Fraud Office had been incompetent at the least in failing to detect and prevent the abuse.
International Organization and the Study of World Politics
Authors: Katzenstein Peter J. , Keohane Robert O. , Krasner Stephen D.
Published: May 2019

A distinct subfield of international relations, IPE, has emerged over the last thirty years, largely in the pages of International Organization. IPE began with the study of international political economy, but over time its boundaries have been set more by a series of theoretical debates than by subject matter. These debates have been organized around points of contestation between specific research programs, reflecting fundamental differences among the generic theoretical orientations in which these research programs are embedded. The fate of specific research programs has depended on their ability to specify cause and effect relationships and to operationalize relevant variables. Scholarship in IPE has become more sophisticated both methodologically and theoretically, and many of its insights have been incorporated into policy discussions. Past points of contestation, including those between realism and its liberal challengers and between various conceptions of domestic structure and international relations, help us to understand recent debates between rationalism and constructivism.
Address at the memorial service held at St Peter's Cathedral, Geneva 20 December 1996
Authors: Harroff-Tavel Marion
Published: May 2019

There were six of them. Six individuals who with their skills, their hands and their hearts brought shelter, care, comfort and a smile to the wounded of the conflict in Chechnya. They came from Norway, Spain, Canada, the Netherlands and New Zealand, all under the banner of the Red Cross. They worked in the ICRC hospital at Novye Atagi. And they are no longer with us. A seventh lies wounded by the bullet which was intended to kill him. The grief of those who witnessed that carnage is felt by us all.
The new vulnerability of humanitarian workers: what is the proper response? An ICRC delegate's view
Authors: Comtesse Philippe
Published: May 2019

“The security [of humanitarian personnel in the field] is a political rather than a technical issue. No rule or protective measure can replace the establishment of a network of contacts among all the parties to a conflict, to convince every one of them of the ICRC's neutrality, impartiality and independence. If those in charge of combatants perceive the ICRC as taking sides, then the organization becomes a potential target. Conversely, neutrality, and above all the combatants' perception of that neutrality, offer the warring parties their best assurance that the ICRC poses no threat to them. The neutral stance of its delegates convinces combatants that the ICRC's humanitarian action has no effect on military operations.” This is one of the basic premises of the guidelines on security that the ICRC drew up a few years ago for use in its action in the midst of armed conflict.