bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Remodeling of cholinergic input to the hippocampus after noise exposure and tinnitus induction in Guinea pigs
Authors: Zhang Liqin , Wu Calvin , Martel David T. , West Michael , Sutton Michael A. , Shore Susan E. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractHere, we investigate remodeling of hippocampal cholinergic inputs after noise exposure and determine the relevance of these changes to tinnitus. To assess the effects of noise exposure on the hippocampus, guinea pigs were exposed to unilateral noise for 2 hr and 2 weeks later, immunohistochemistry was performed on hippocampal sections to examine vesicular acetylcholine transporter (VAChT) expression. To evaluate whether the changes in VAChT were relevant to tinnitus, another group of animals was exposed to the same noise band twice to induce tinnitus, which was assessed using gap‐prepulse Inhibition of the acoustic startle (GPIAS) 12 weeks after the first noise exposure, followed by immunohistochemistry. Acoustic Brainstem Response (ABR) thresholds were elevated immediately after noise exposure for all experimental animals but returned to baseline levels several days after noise exposure. ABR wave I amplitude‐intensity functions did not show any changes after 2 or 12 weeks of recovery compared to baseline levels. In animals assessed 2‐weeks following noise‐exposure, hippocampal VAChT puncta density decreased on both sides of the brain by 20–60% in exposed animals. By 12 weeks following the initial noise exposure, changes in VAChT puncta density largely recovered to baseline levels in exposed animals that did not develop tinnitus, but remained diminished in animals that developed tinnitus. These tinnitus‐specific changes were particularly prominent in hippocampal synapse‐rich layers of the dentate gyrus and areas CA3 and CA1, and VAChT density in these regions negatively correlated with tinnitus severity. The robust changes in VAChT labeling in the hippocampus 2 weeks after noise exposure suggest involvement of this circuitry in auditory processing. After chronic tinnitus induction, tinnitus‐specific changes occurred in synapse‐rich layers of the hippocampus, suggesting that synaptic processing in the hippocampus may play an important role in the pathophysiology of tinnitus.
Doppler ultrasonographic assessment of fetal middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity in gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Dantas Andrea M.A. , Palmieri Andrea B.S. , Vieira Mariana R. , Souza Matheus L.R. , Silva Jean C. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractObjectiveTo compare Doppler ultrasonographic measurements of the fetal middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity (MCA PSV) among women with or without gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).MethodsA cross‐sectional study was conducted among pregnant women who presented for prenatal care at a single hospital in Brazil between September 11, 2015, and January 6, 2017. Patients were stratified into a group with GDM and a control group without GDM. One Doppler ultrasonographic assessment was performed per participant. This measurement was made after diagnosis but before the start of treatment among women in the GDM group. Fetal ultrasonographic and biometric variables assessed included MCA PSV, MCA pulsatility index, umbilical artery pulsatility index, the MCA–to‐umbilical artery ratio, abdominal circumference, and weight.ResultsThe study included 238 women: 115 in the GDM group and 123 in the control group. The median MCA PSV was 1.02 in the GDM group and 1.08 in the control group (P=0.036). No statistically significant between‐group differences were found for the other fetal ultrasonographic variables or for the fetal biometric variables assessed. None of the maternal or fetal parameters assessed displayed a linear correlation with MCA PSV.ConclusionDoppler ultrasonographic measurements of MCA PSV were lowered among the fetuses of women diagnosed with GDM.
IR and Vendors: Selecting the Right Product
Authors: Ferland Christopher , Flachbarth Justin 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThe market is full of vendors selling products each designed to solve institutional problems. But how does one choose the right tool for their institution and situation? Topics addressed in this chapter include: how to gauge institutional needs, how to evaluate products, and understand the available institutional resources (current and future). The chapter concludes by offering six suggestions for IR offices (and professionals) when they start to consider vendor products.
Effects of organic loading rates on microbial communities and biogas production from water hyacinth: a case of mono‐ and co‐digestion
Authors: Nkuna Rosina , Roopnarain Ashira , Adeleke Rasheed 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundAnaerobic digestion is a microbial driven process, which results in biogas production. Although important, the relative abundance of microbial communities can be affected by disturbances such as feeding rates. In this study, the effects of irregular organic loading rates on anaerobic digestion of water hyacinth (mono‐ and co‐digestion) as well as on bacterial and archaeal communities were investigated. The process was conducted at different feeding stages during which the process stability, biogas production, composition and microbial community structure were monitored.ResultsBacterial communities were more influenced by irregular organic loading rates in comparison with archaeal communities. Although microbial community shifts were observed in both mono‐ and co‐digestion, the shift was more prevalent in co‐digestion. Moreover, process stability was evidenced in some stages of mono‐digestion, where the FOS/TAC ratio was within the optimal range. However, for co‐digestion, the low FOS/TAC ratio showed process instability.ConclusionOverall, irregularity in organic loading rates affected the microbial community composition as well as their CH4 production. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Hazardous non‐cytotoxic medicines: uncertainty around safe handling? A new workplace guideline for hospital staff
Authors: Booth Jane , Keith Claire , Tanner Francine , Siderov Jim , Aminian Parnaz 
Published: November 2018

AbstractHazardous medicines have the potential to cause harm via occupational exposure. We describe the development of a guideline to clarify the risks of occupational handling of non‐cytotoxic hazardous medicines, and provide practical advice for frontline staff in the hospital setting. Nurses and pharmacists in Victorian hospitals were surveyed to capture their experience, whilst a literature review located 14 national or jurisdictional guidance documents. Nurses and pharmacists reported variance in practices when handling an example medicine (mycophenolate). Many found existing guidance around hazardous non‐cytotoxic medicines unclear or confusing. Medicines were categorised into four groups: cytotoxic medicines; hazardous non‐cytotoxic medicines; medicines that primarily pose a risk to men and women actively trying to conceive and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding; and medicines that are irritants to mucous membranes or airways. An institutional guideline was developed, with recommendations synthesised into a single‐page chart for quick reference at the point of care.
Investigation of the Brillouin effect in highly nonlinear hafnium bismuth erbium doped fiber
Authors: Ahmad Aminah , Cheng Xiau S. , Paul Mukul C. , Dhar Anirban , Das Shyamal , Ahmad Harith , Harun Sulaiman W. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThis paper demonstrates the generation of the Brillouin fiber laser (BFL) with 0.5 m long hafnium bismuth erbium doped fiber (HBEDF) as a hybrid gain medium. As the gain medium is pumped by a 980 nm laser diode at the power of 170 mW, a stable Stokes is observed at the output power of −2.96 dBm with Brillouin pump (BP) power of 3 dBm. The laser operates at wavelength shifted by 0.09 nm from the BP. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of a compact BFL without employing any lengthy SMF, which features a simple cavity configuration.
A fast, linear Boltzmann transport equation solver for computed tomography dose calculation (Acuros CTD)
Authors: Wang Adam , Maslowski Alexander , Wareing Todd , Star‐Lack Josh , Schmidt Taly Gilat 
Published: November 2018

PurposeTo improve dose reporting of CT scans, patient‐specific organ doses are highly desired. However, estimating the dose distribution in a fast and accurate manner remains challenging, despite advances in Monte Carlo methods. In this work, we present an alternative method that deterministically solves the linear Boltzmann transport equation (LBTE), which governs the behavior of x‐ray photon transport through an object.MethodsOur deterministic solver for CT dose (Acuros CTD) is based on the same approach used to estimate scatter in projection images of a CT scan (Acuros CTS). A deterministic method is used to compute photon fluence within the object, which is then converted to deposited energy by multiplying by known, material‐specific conversion factors.To benchmark Acuros CTD, we used the AAPM Task Group 195 test for CT dose, which models an axial, fan beam scan (10 mm thick beam) and calculates energy deposited in each organ of an anthropomorphic phantom. We also validated our own Monte Carlo implementation of Geant4 to use as a reference to compare Acuros against for other common geometries like an axial, cone beam scan (160 mm thick beam) and a helical scan (40 mm thick beam with table motion for a pitch of 1).ResultsFor the fan beam scan, Acuros CTD accurately estimated organ dose, with a maximum error of 2.7% and RMSE of 1.4% when excluding organs with <0.1% of the total energy deposited. The cone beam and helical scans yielded similar levels of accuracy compared to Geant4. Increasing the number of source positions beyond 18 or decreasing the voxel size below 5 × 5 × 5 mm3 provided marginal improvement to the accuracy for the cone beam scan but came at the expense of increased run time. Across the different scan geometries, run time of Acuros CTD ranged from 8 to 23 s.ConclusionsIn this digital phantom study, a deterministic LBTE solver was capable of fast and accurate organ dose estimates.
Recent Advances in Phthalan and Coumaran Chemistry
Authors: Ilya Efimov , Kulikova Larisa , Van der Eycken Erik V. , Voskressensky Leonid 
Published: November 2018

AbstractOxygen‐containing heterocycles are common in biologically active compounds. In particular, phthalan and coumaran cores are found in pharmaceuticals, organic electronics, and other useful medical and technological applications. Recent research has expanded the methods available for their synthesis. This Minireview presents recent advances in the chemistry of phthalans and coumarans, with the goal of overcoming synthetic challenges and facilitating the applications of phthalans and coumarans.
Impact of environmentally friendly processing solvents on the properties of blade‐coated polymer solar cells
Authors: Bouzid Hamza , Prosa Mario , Bolognesi Margherita , Chehata Nadia , Gedefaw Desta , Albonetti Cristiano , Andersson Mats R. , Muccini Michele , Bouazizi Abdelaziz , Seri Mirko 
Published: November 2018

ABSTRACTHigh‐performance polymer solar cells (PSCs) are typically fabricated by spin coating in inert atmosphere from toxic halogenated solvents such as 1,2‐dichlorobenzene (o‐DCB) and chlorobenzene. This fabrication process is potentially hazardous for both the humans and the environment and dramatically impacts the possibility for the organic photovoltaic technology to be adopted at large scale. In this work, efficient PSCs blade coated in air using nonhalogenated 1,2,4‐trimethylbenzene (TMB) as processing solvent are demonstrated. The active layer, based on a previously synthesized benchmark polymer PFQ2T‐benzodithiophene blended with [6,6]‐phenyl‐C61‐butyric acid methyl ester (PC61BM), showed an enhanced solid‐state aggregation induced by the use of TMB. Compared to o‐DCB‐processed devices, the solar cells fabricated from TMB resulted 10% more efficient with a power conversion efficiency of 4.20%. Interestingly, the improved photovoltaic performance resulted from the combination of synergic effects promoted by a more favorable film morphology, such as high exciton dissociation efficiency and lower bimolecular recombinations resulting in higher charge collection efficiency at the electrodes. The positive effect of TMB, compared to that of commonly employed halogenated solvents, confirms the great potential of this approach for the development of efficient PSCs for practical applications with reduced environmental impact. © 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Polym. Sci., Part A: Polym. Chem. 2019, 57, 487–494
Caregiver Communication About Cancer: Development of a mhealth resource to support family caregiver communication burden
Authors: Wittenberg Elaine , Xu Jiayun , Goldsmith Joy , Mendoza Yesenia 
Published: November 2018

AbstractObjectiveThe aim of this study is to illustrate an evidence‐based and theoretically informed mhealth resource (smartphone app) designed to provide communication support for informal cancer caregivers (friends or family members).MethodsAn eight‐step process was conducted: (a) review of existing print resources, (b) selection of theoretical framework for content development, (c) integration of stakeholder feedback and literacy assessment into an alpha print model, (d) review of existing mhealth resources, (e) development of prototype, (f) assessment of caregiver acceptability (n = 5), (g) assessment of quality and perceived impact by cancer providers (n = 26), and (h) acceptability testing with caregivers (n = 6).ResultsKey stakeholders were integrated throughout development and user testing of this iOS smartphone app. The smartphone app consists of talking tips and resources for caregiver communication with the patient, family, far away family, and health care providers, as well as general information sharing features.ConclusionsThis study demonstrates feasibility and development of an evidence‐based and theory‐driven mhealth resource to support caregiver communication about cancer. This is the first theory‐driven mhealth application created to support the communication burden experienced by cancer caregivers. A larger study is needed to establish the efficacy of the app as an intervention for caregivers.
Inverse analysis to estimate site‐specific parameters of a mathematical model for simulating pesticide dissipations in paddy test systems
Authors: Kondo Kei , Wakasone Yoshiki , Iijima Kazuaki , Ohyama Kazutoshi 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBACKGROUNDIn Japan, while experimental data for the dissipation behavior of paddy pesticides under a standardized test system are available, the application of a mathematical model is limited. This paper proposes a new model calibration procedure for inversely deriving the model parameters from the experimental data. This procedure is tested in the open software R by running an improved Pesticide Concentration in Paddy Field‐1 (PCPF‐1) model with R packages to analyze the dissipation of simetryn and molinate in flooded lysimeters and paddy fields.RESULTSThe model fitting was performed by a random minimization routine. Furthermore, the uncertainties of the model parameters envisioned by the global sensitivity analysis were successfully reduced using the Markov chain Monte Carlo technique. The calibrated simulation was validated at each test plot by confirming multiple statistical indices (i.e. Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency 0.88–1.00, percent bias <±5%). The dissipation pathways of two herbicides were quantitatively clarified by the mass balance of calibrated simulations and the effect of the unexpected herbicide runoff was quantified. The case study showed that the adjustment of daily percolation rate in the lysimeter experiment is the key to simulate the actual paddy field condition more accurately, especially in a case where pesticides show higher water solubility and soil mobility.CONCLUSIONThe developed procedure can analyze the experimental data with acceptable accuracy and extract the unobservable information quantitatively. Our approach is applicable to the optimization of not only the model but also future experimental design. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry
Master‐slave motion alignment for an open surgical console
Authors: Wang Weidong , Song Huajian , Zhang Zelin , Du Zhijiang 
Published: November 2018

AbstractBackgroundOpen surgical consoles widely employed in minimally invasive surgery have better ergonomics than closed consoles. To enhance surgical robots' ergonomics, operational efficiency, and safety, an effective master‐slave motion alignment model should be established.MethodsThe kinematic model of the robot system based on laparoscopic camera coordinate system is built in the first place. Then, the relative pose between the operator's eyes and the display is measured by Tobii Eye Tracking Sensor and is subsequently used to improve the master‐slave motion alignment model.ResultsRobot threading experiments are conducted by two doctors and three testers to verify the kinematic model. As a result, in contrast to the original model, the improved model reduces both operation time and the number of collisions.ConclusionsThe improved master‐slave motion alignment model, in which the transformation matrix between the operator's eyes and the display is employed, raises the ergonomics, operational efficiency, and safety.
Synthesis of Surface‐Controlled CePO4 and Its Application for Catalyzed Decarbonylation of Lactic Acid to Acetaldehyde
Authors: Pang Jun , Li Xinli , Zou Weixin , Tang Congming , Wang Yu , Dong Lin 
Published: November 2018

AbstractCePO4 materials were prepared via reaction of cerous nitrate with phosphates such as Na3PO4, Na4P2O7, Na5P3O10 and (NH4)xH3‐xPO4 (x=2, and 3) in aqueous solution, followed by calcination at 550oC under the air atmosphere. It was found that the uniform CePO4 indexed to JCPDS NO. 83‐0650 was achieved no matter what the phosphates varied in the screened phosphate precursors. However, compared with relative intensity in the standard patterns with R(012)/(120) value of 0.715 (R(012)/(120), Intensity ratio between face (012) and face (120)), some samples obtained from Na4P2O7 and (NH4)xH3‐xPO4 displayed an enhanced diffraction peak at 2θ = 31.1o, which ascribes to plane (012), while others obtained from Na3PO4 and Na5P3O10 were in good agreement with the standard sample (JCPDS NO. 83‐0650, CePO4). Correlation between the crystal plane (012) and activity revealed that the enhanced crystal plane favored an enhancement of activity for decarbonylation of lactic acid to acetaldehyde. Effect of aqueous ammonia on catalytic performance of samples was also investigated. It was clearly seen that the sample obtained from Na4P2O7 offered an enhanced activity for decarbonylation of lactic acid as it was treated with aqueous ammonia while others almost remained unchanged or even decreased slightly. XRD patterns for the obtained sample from Na4P2O7 treated with aqueous ammonia disclosed that the diffraction peak at 2θ = 31.1o increased, further demonstrating that crystal face (012) relates to activity of samples for decarbonylation of lactic acid. NH3 (CO2)‐Temperature Programmed Desorption experiments suggested that the surface acid‐base properties of catalysts related to the ratios of (012)/(120). Varying the catalyst preparation conditions such as calcination temperature and aqueous ammonia can control R(012)/(120) values, thus adjusting acid‐base properties of catalysts. Stability experiments show that the catalyst has an acceptable durability, and the activity of the deactivated catalyst can be recovered by a simple calcination at 550 oC in air.
Preparation of a Highly Effective Organic Tanning Agent with Wide Molecular Weight Distribution from Bio‐Renewable Sodium Alginate
Authors: Ding Wei , Yi Yudan , Wang Ya‐nan , Zhou Jianfei , Shi Bi 
Published: November 2018

AbstractDialdehyde sodium alginate (DSA) with wide molecular weight distribution was prepared by periodate oxidation without alcohol‐precipitation. Its tanning properties in fur processing were investigated. It was found that this DSA could endow fur with high shrinkage temperature (Ts, 89 °C) and area yield (107%), showing better tanning properties than conventional dialdehyde sodium alginate product that was prepared by repeated alcohol‐precipitation process and thus had narrow molecular weight distribution. Low molecular weight components in DSA mainly contributed to crosslinkage and dispersion of the collagen fiber network, viz. tanning effect, while high molecular weight DSA components contributed to filling performance. SEM analysis illustrated that satisfactory dispersion of skin matrix and intact scale layer of wool were achieved by DSA tanning. The DSA tanned fur exhibited reasonable resistance to oxidation bleaching and presented a better performance in physical properties compared with traditional chrome tanned fur after fatliquoring. Besides, the DSA tanning system led to a better treatability of tanning and post‐tanning wastewaters in view of chrome‐free and higher biodegradability. The DSA with wide molecular weight distribution is a potential sustainable tanning agent in terms of both preparation and tanning processes.
Sol‐Gel Preparation of Perovskite Oxides Using Ethylene Glycol and Alcohol Mixture as Complexant and Its Catalytic Performances for CO Oxidation
Authors: Wang Shan , Zhang Yibo , Zhu Junjiang , Tang Duihai , Zhao Zhen , Yang Xiangguang 
Published: November 2018

AbstractWe reported an updated sol‐gel method for the preparation of perovskite oxide using ethylene glycol and alcohol mixture as complexant. Relative to that prepared by sol‐gel method using citric acid as complexant, the sample prepared by this updated method showed porous structure, higher surface area, more oxygen vacancies and stronger reducibility, due to a two‐step combustion process. By comparing the phase transformation temperature of perovskite oxides using different transition metals, it was inferred that the electron distribution in the 3d orbit is a crucial factor influencing the formation of perovskite structure. The easier the electrons to be excited, the easier the perovskite structure to be formed. Catalytic results showed that the sample (e. g., LaCoO3‐EM) prepared by the updated method is more active for CO oxidation than that prepared by citric acid method, with full CO conversion obtained at 135 °C and no activity loss is observable either by long‐term (30 h) or by cycling (3 times) stability tests. Effect of the chain length of alcohols on the properties of LaCoO3 was also studied.
Including Electronic Screening in Classical Force Field of Zinc Ion for Biomolecular Simulations
Authors: Del Frate Gianluca , Nikitin Alexei 
Published: November 2018

AbstractWe present a new force field for zinc ion to be used in classical Molecular Dynamics. Such model has been developed according to an optimization procedure by fitting experimental quantities taken from the literature. The metal ion electrostatic charge has been scaled by a factor 0.75, according to a recently proposed polarization model which considers the electronic screening effects due to the surrounding environment. Zinc interatomic interactions have been modeled by means of the Waldman‐Hagler combination rule. It is demonstrated that the proposed force field for zinc is transferable from water solution to protein catalytic sites, offering in both the considered cases good performances in the reproduction of experimental quantities usually addressed in soft matter computer simulations.