Search

Forgiveness plays an important role in couple relationships, as it is essential in overcoming interpersonal offenses and related to the well‐being of the relationship. To date, no valid instruments are available for Spanish populations to evaluate forgiveness within marital relationships. This study aims to adapt and evaluate the Marital Offense‐Specific Forgiveness Scale (MOFS), comparing the behavior of the scale in two cultural contexts: Spain and the United States.Two studies were conducted: the first with 389 participants to evaluate the behavior of the scale and to explore the dimensionality of the Spanish version of the MOFS using exploratory factor analysis (EFA); the second study used a sample of 361 Spanish and 119 American participants, conducting a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and an invariance factor analysis.The EFA revealed two factors: Avoidance–Resentment and Benevolence. Using CFA, the factorial structure of the MOFS was confirmed, with results indicating that the proposed model presents a similar fit to the original version. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The consumption of olive oil has been shown to have a positive effect on preventing obesity and hypertension. At the same time, it is recommended to avoid processed meat products as they contain saturated fats. The inclusion of highly unsaturated lipids in food products can lead to rapid oxidation and deterioration of sensory characteristics. The objective of the current work was to encapsulate olive oil and incorporate it into traditional Polish liver pâté. The oil‐in‐water emulsions were formulated with varying levels of oat β‐glucan and were evaluated for droplet size, pH, encapsulation efficiency and rheology. The liver pâtés made using the emulsions with and without β‐glucan were then evaluated for pH, texture, colour, lipid and protein oxidation, thermal stability and sensory properties. RESULTS: The results showed that the oil‐in‐water emulsions had a 100% encapsulation rate of olive oil after 30 days of storage at 4 °C, regardless of the presence of β‐glucan. Although the texture of the emulsion‐enriched liver pâté was different from that of the control, this difference was reduced when β‐glucan was added to the emulsion and then to the pâté matrix. CONCLUSION: Replacing 50% of animal fat with an olive oil emulsion enriched with β‐glucan did not result in any compromise of sensory properties, increase lipid or protein oxidation. These results suggest that it is possible to replace saturated lipids with omega‐3‐rich olive oil. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous Zn‐metal battery (AZMB) is a promising candidate for future large‐scale energy storage with commendable capacity, exceptional safety characteristics, and low cost. Acetonitrile (AN) has been widely used as an effective electrolyte constituent to improve AZMBs' performance. However, its functioning mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we unveiled the critical roles of AN in AZMBs via comparative in situ electrochemical, gaseous, and morphological analyses. Despite its limited ability to solvate Zn ions, AN‐modulated Zn‐ion solvation sheath with increased anions and decreased water achieves a weakly‐solvating electrolyte. As a result, the Zn||Zn cell with AN addition exhibited 63 times longer cycle life than cell without AN and achieved a 4 Ah cm−2 accumulated capacity with no H2 generation. In V2O5||Zn cells, for the first time, AN suppressing CO2 generation, elevating CO2‐initiation voltage from 2→2.44 V (H2: 2.43→2.55 V) was discovered. AN‐impeded transit and Zn‐side deposition of dissolved vanadium ions, known as "crosstalk," ameliorated inhomogeneous Zn deposition and dendritic Zn growth. At last, we demonstrated an AN‐enabled high‐areal‐capacity AZMB (3.3 mAh cm−2) using high‐mass‐loading V2O5 cathode (26 mg cm−2). This study shed light on the strategy of constructing fast‐desolvation electrolytes and offered insights for future electrolyte accommodation for high‐voltage AZMB cathodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sumanene is a buckybowl molecule that is continuously attracting the attention of the scientific community because of its unique geometrical and physicochemical properties. This Minireview systematically summarizes advances and considerations regarding the applied supramolecular chemistry of sumanene. This work highlights the major fields in which potential or real applications of sumanene molecule have been reported to date, such as the design of sumanene‐containing functional supramolecular materials and architectures, sumanene‐based drug‐delivery systems, or sumanene‐tethered ion‐selective molecular receptors. An assessment of the current status in the applied supramolecular chemistry of sumanene is provided, together with an emphasis on the key advances being made. Discussion on those milestones that are still to be achieved within this emerging field is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detection of potentially harmful substances presents a multifaceted challenge. On one hand, it can directly save lives, on the other, it can significantly aid and enhance police work, thereby increasing the effectiveness of investigations. The research conducted in this study primarily aims to identify paracetamol in fingerprints, considering situations involving direct contact of a person with paracetamol either chronically or in a single dose. The identification procedure presented, utilizing Raman spectroscopy, aims to rapidly detect the xenobiotic following ingestion by an individual, which involves touching the tablet with their fingers—this can be termed as touch evidence in forensic science investigations. Additionally, the authors focus on assessing the impact of additives present in drugs containing paracetamol as the main active ingredient. The screening results obtained will enable us to analyze the composition of drugs in terms of potentially toxic substances, and their influence on the physicochemical activity of the active substance. We successfully identified the paracetamol molecule using a noninvasive forensic trace detection method. Samples in the form of common drugs containing 500 mg of paracetamol were studied. Throughout the study, comprehensive validation of the method was ensured through the utilization of a statistical model, which excluded sensitivity to the presence of other substances, whether additives or from the external environment. The proposed approach to trace the content of substances in fingerprint using Raman scattering analysis provides a useful starting point to enhance current analytical methods not only in forensic science but also in toxicology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical evidence indicates that COVID‐19 is a multiorgan disease that significantly impacts the cardiovascular system. However, little is known about the predictors of myocardial dysfunction after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the clinical and electrocardiographic correlates of myocardial dysfunction after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in nonhospitalised patients without previously diagnosed cardiovascular disease. This observational study included 448 patients selected from the database of 4142 patients in the Polish Long‐Covid Cardiovascular study. All patients underwent a 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG); 24‐h Holter ECG monitoring, 24/7 ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, echocardiography, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. According to the results of diagnostic tests, patients were divided into two groups depending on the occurrence of myocardial dysfunction after COVID‐19. Group 1–without myocardial dysfunction after COVID‐19–consisted of 419 patients, with a mean age of 48.82 (SD ± 11.91), and Group 2 (29 patients)–with myocardial dysfunction after COVID‐19, with a mean age of 51.45 (SD ± 12.92). When comparing the analysed groups, there were significantly more men in Group 2 (p = 0.006). QRS (corresponds to the time of ventricular contraction in an electrocardiographic examination) fragmentation (p = 0.031), arrhythmias (atrial fibrillation, supraventricular extrasystole, ventricular extrasystole) (p = 0.008), and male gender (p = 0.007) were independently associated with myocardial dysfunction after COVID‐19. The study showed that myocardial damage after COVID‐19 affects men more often and is independent of typical clinical factors and the severity of the disease course. The QRS fragmentation and arrhythmias observed in the ECG indicate the possibility of myocardial dysfunction in patients after COVID‐19, which may be a valuable marker for physicians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evapotranspiration is an important part of the water cycle and influences, for example, water management and agricultural production. The article presents temporal and spatial changes in reference evapotranspiration (ETo) in the growing season (April–September) against the background of climatic conditions in Poland in the years 1966–2020. ETo was calculated using the Penman–Monteith method using data from 37 meteorological stations in the network of the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management‐National Research Institute. For the growing season of April–September, the average sum of ETo for Poland was 529 mm. In terms of spatial distribution, the values were lowest in northern Poland (Kołobrzeg, 480 mm; Lębork, 488 mm) and highest in the central lowlands (Warsaw, 570 mm; Poznań, 566 mm). For individual months, the average sum of ETo ranged from 53 to 63 mm in April and September to 108–112 mm in June and July. In Poland, in the years 1966–2020, ETo showed a statistically significant upward trend of 16.4 mm/10 year. This is the result of, inter alia, statistically significant increases in sunshine duration and air temperature and a decrease in relative humidity (respectively: 62 h/10 year, 0.40°C/10 year and −1%/10 year) during the growing season in Poland. Within the multiyear study period, the maximum ETo values occurred in 2018, reaching values of >700 mm. At that time, Poland was under the influence of very intense anticyclonic circulation. This is confirmed by the relationship between ETo and the anticyclonic circulation index for central Poland, which is statistically significant for the 55 study years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We consider the case of a mountain catchment representative of southwest Spitsbergen to investigate the spatial and temporal variation in temperature of the near‐surface ground. We set up 20 thermistor strings distributed in different parts of the catchment, combine the measured data with land surface temperature (LST) retrieved from Landsat imagery, and verify the depth of ground thawing using electrical resistivity tomography. Under current climatic conditions, the thickness of the active layer (ALT) is at least 1.5 m, and in the lower parts of the catchment, between 3.5 and 4 m. The maximum ground surface temperature in the study area can be 27°C, and the temperature at a depth of 1.5 m, 5.4°C. We identified unfrozen ground (taliks) to a depth of 10–30 m in zones of water concentration at foot slopes and under river channels. The persistence of year‐round taliks at lake shores is possible. We verify the hypothesis that topographic parameters significantly determine the spatial variation of near‐surface ground temperature. For each level of temperature aggregation (from 6 h to 12 months data) and each examined the depth of the active layer, it is possible to identify environmental variables—related to energy conditions, heights, terrain relief, and ground surface moisture—significantly correlated with ground temperature, and consequently to specify multiple regression models. Topographic exposure and LST (used only in daily models), altitude, and various approximations of relative height are crucial in their construction. The ground temperature variance, unexplained in the regression analysis, prompts recognition of the critical role of factors not included in the modelling (groundwater, soil structure). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Status epilepticus (SE) requires rapid intervention to prevent cerebral injury and mortality. The ketogenic diet, which bypasses glycolysis, is a promising remedy for patients with refractory SE. We tested the role of glycolytic lactate production in sustaining SE. Methods: Extracellular lactate and glucose concentration during a seizure and SE in vivo was measured using lactate and glucose biosensors. A lactate dehydrogenase inhibitor, oxamate, blocked pyruvate to lactate conversion during SE. Video‐EEG recordings evaluated seizure duration, severity, and immunohistochemistry was used to determine neuronal loss. Genetically encoded calcium indicator GCaMP7 was used to study the effect of oxamate on CA1 pyramidal neurons in vitro. Spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs) were recorded from CA1 neurons to study oxamate's impact on neurotransmission. Results: The extracellular glucose concentration dropped rapidly during seizures, and lactate accumulated in the extracellular space. Inhibition of pyruvate to lactate conversion with oxamate terminated SE in mice. There was less neuronal loss in treated compared to control mice. Oxamate perfusion decreased tonic and phasic neuronal activity of GCaMP7‐expressing CA1 pyramidal neurons in vitro. Oxamate application reduced the frequency, but not amplitude of sEPSCs recorded from CA1 neurons, suggesting an effect on the presynaptic glutamatergic neurotransmission. Interpretation: A single seizure and SE stimulate lactate production. Diminishing pyruvate to lactate conversion with oxamate terminated SE and reduced associated neuronal death. Oxamate reduced neuronal excitability and excitatory neurotransmission at the presynaptic terminal. Glycolytic lactate production sustains SE and is an attractive therapeutic target. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biopolymer‐based materials have recently received great interest as potential components for wearable energy‐storage devices. They can offer attractive and valuable properties such as renewability, biocompatibility, thermal and chemical stability, flexibility, durability, and biodegradability. Herein, a wearable and flexible all‐solid‐state supercapacitor that uses chitin as a biocompatible scaffold for integrating all device components, such as electrodes and an electrolyte, is developed. Chitin provides mechanical stability to electrode materials and supports the ionic liquid‐based gel electrolyte, and it also acts as a bonding agent to integrate all those components. Additionally, titanium carbide MXene is used as an active material for the proposed power source device. The MXene/chitin‐based all‐solid‐state supercapacitor exhibits impressive electrochemical performance, showing outstanding electrode conductivity, high capacitance, low internal resistance, high power density, and long‐term cycling stability. Moreover, it provides highly desired features concerning wearable devices, that is, excellent flexibility and mechanical strength under bending deformations, as well as sustainability and biodegradability. As a proof of concept, the MXene/chitin‐base device is applied for powering an electronic gadget. Herein, an important step is represented toward power‐efficient, wearable, and sustainable energy‐storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tunnel‐coupled pairs of optically active quantum dots—quantum dot molecules (QDMs)—offer the possibility to combine excellent optical properties such as strong light‐matter coupling with two‐spin singlet–triplet (S−T0$S-T_0$) qubits having extended coherence times. The S−T0$S-T_0$ basis formed using two spins is inherently protected against electric and magnetic field noise. However, since a single gate voltage is typically used to stabilize the charge occupancy of the dots and control the inter‐dot orbital couplings, operation of the S−T0$S-T_0$ qubits under optimal conditions remains challenging. Here, an electric field tunable QDM that can be optically charged with one (1h) or two holes (2h) on demand is presented. A four‐phase optical and electric field control sequence facilitates the sequential preparation of the 2h charge state and subsequently allows flexible control of the inter‐dot coupling. Charges are loaded via optical pumping and electron tunnel ionization. One‐ and two‐hole charging efficiencies of (93.5 ± 0.8)% and (80.5 ± 1.3)% are achieved, respectively. Combining efficient charge state preparation and precise setting of inter‐dot coupling allows for the control of few‐spin qubits, as would be required for the on‐demand generation of 2D photonic cluster states or quantum transduction between microwaves and photons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitral valve prolapse (MVP) is the most frequent valvulopathy with a prevalence of 1.2%–2.4% in general population and it is characterized by a benign course. Although it can be associated with some complications, ventricular arrhythmias (VA) and sudden cardiac death (SCD) as ultimate expressions, are the most worrying. The estimated risk of SCD in MVP is between 0.2% and 1.9% per year including both MVP patients with left ventricular (LV) dysfunction due to severe MR and MVP patients without significant MR. The latter ones constitute a particular phenotype called "malignant MVP" characterized by bileaflet myxomatous prolapse, ECG repolarization abnormalities and complex VAs (c‐VAs) with polymorphic/right bundle branch block morphology (RBBB) and LV fibrosis of the papillary muscles (PMs) and inferobasal wall secondary to mechanical stretching visualized as late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) areas by cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR). In MVP, the first diagnostic approach is transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) that defines the presence of mitral annular disjunction (MAD) which seems to be associated with "arrhythmic MVP" (AMVP). From an ECG point of view, AMVP is characterized by frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) arising from one or both PMs, fascicular tissue, and outflow tract, as well as by T‐wave inversion in the inferolateral leads. The aim of the present paper is to describe TTE red flags that could identify MVP patients at high risk to develop complex arrhythmias as supported by the corresponding findings of LGE‐CMR and anatomy studies. TTE could be a co‐partner in phenotyping high‐risk arrhythmic MVP patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Superficial siderosis of the central nervous system is a sporadic finding in magnetic resonance imaging, resulting from recurrent bleedings into the subarachnoid space. This study aimed to determine the frequency of spinal dural cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks amongst patients with a symmetric infratentorial siderosis pattern. Methods: In all, 97,733 magnetic resonance images performed between 2007 and 2018 in our neurocenter were screened by a keyword search for "hemosiderosis" and "superficial siderosis." Siderosis patterns on brain imaging were classified according to a previously published algorithm. Potential causative intracranial bleeding events were also assessed. Patients with a symmetric infratentorial siderosis pattern but without causative intracranial bleeding events in history were prospectively evaluated for spinal pathologies. Results: Forty‐two patients with isolated supratentorial siderosis, 30 with symmetric infratentorial siderosis and 21 with limited (non‐symmetric) infratentorial siderosis were identified. Amyloid angiopathy and subarachnoid hemorrhage were causes for isolated supratentorial siderosis. In all four patients with a symmetric infratentorial siderosis pattern but without a causative intracranial bleeding event in history, spinal dural abnormalities were detected. Dural leaks were searched for in patients with symmetric infratentorial siderosis and a history of intracranial bleeding event without known bleeding etiology, considering that spinal dural CSF leaks themselves may also cause intracranial hemorrhage, for example by inducing venous thrombosis due to low CSF pressure. Thereby, one additional spinal dural leak was detected. Conclusions: Persisting spinal dural CSF leaks can frequently be identified in patients with a symmetric infratentorial siderosis pattern. Diagnostic workup in these cases should include magnetic resonance imaging of the whole spine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has changed the landscape of medical care delivery worldwide. We aimed to assess the influence of COVID‐19 pandemic on hospital admissions and in‐hospital mortality rate in patients with acute heart failure (AHF) in a retrospective, multicentre study. Methods and results: From 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2020, a total of 101 433 patients were hospitalized in 24 Cardiology Departments in Poland. The number of patients admitted due to AHF decreased by 23.4% from 9853 in 2019 to 7546 in 2020 (P < 0.001). We noted a significant reduction of self‐referrals in the times of COVID‐19 pandemic accounting 27.8% (P < 0.001), with increased number of AHF patients brought by an ambulance by 15.9% (P < 0.001). The length of hospital stay was overall similar (7.7 ± 2.8 vs. 8.2 ± 3.7 days; P = not significant). The in‐hospital all‐cause mortality in AHF patients was 444 (5.2%) in 2019 vs. 406 (6.5%) in 2020 (P < 0.001). A total number of AHF patients with concomitant COVID‐19 was 239 (3.2% of AHF patients hospitalized in 2020). The rate of in‐hospital deaths in AHF patients with COVID‐19 was extremely high accounting 31.4%, reaching up to 44.1% in the peak of the pandemic in November 2020. Conclusions: Our study indicates that the COVID‐19 pandemic led to (i) reduced hospital admissions for AHF; (ii) decreased number of self‐referred AHF patients and increased number of AHF patients brought by an ambulance; and (iii) increased in‐hospital mortality for AHF with very high mortality rate for concomitant AHF and COVID‐19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Over 50% of newly diagnosed cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) lesions occur in the head and neck (cSCC‐HN), and metastasis to nodal basins in this region further complicates surgical and adjuvant treatment. The current study addressed whether the 40‐gene expression profile (40‐GEP) test can predict metastatic risk in cSCC‐HN with improved accuracy and provide independent prognostic value to complement current risk assessment methods. Study Design: Multicenter, retrospective cohort study. Methods: Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded primary tumor tissue and associated clinical data from patients with cSCC‐HN (n = 278) were collected from 33 independent centers. Samples were analyzed via the 40‐GEP test. Cases were staged per American Joint Committee on Cancer, Eighth Edition (AJCC8) and Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH) criteria after comprehensive medical record and pathology report review. Metastasis‐free survival (MFS) rates were determined, and risk factors were analyzed via Cox regression. Results: The 40‐GEP test classified the cohort into low (Class 1, n = 126; 45.3%), moderate (Class 2A, n = 134; 48.2%), and high (Class 2B, n = 18; 6.5%) metastatic risk at 3 years postdiagnosis. Regional/distant metastasis occurred in 54 patients (19.4%). MFS rates were 92.1% (Class 1), 76.1% (Class 2A), and 44.4% (Class 2B; p <.0001). Multivariate analysis of 40‐GEP results with AJCC8 or BWH tumor stage, or clinicopathologic risk factors, demonstrated independent prognostic value of the 40‐GEP test (p <.03). Accuracy of predicting metastatic risk was also improved using 40‐GEP classification (p <.02). Conclusions: Improved metastatic risk stratification through the 40‐GEP test could complement cSCC‐HN risk assessment for better‐informed decision‐making for treatment and surveillance and ultimately improve patient outcomes. Level of Evidence: 3 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monolayers of transition metal dichalcogenides display a strong excitonic optical response. Additionally encapsulating the monolayer with hexagonal boron nitride allows to reach the limit of a purely homogeneously broadened exciton system. On such a MoSe2‐based system, ultrafast six‐wave mixing spectroscopy is performed and a novel destructive photon echo effect is found. This process manifests as a characteristic depression of the nonlinear signal dynamics when scanning the delay between the applied laser pulses. By theoretically describing the process within a local field model, an excellent agreement with the experiment is reached. An effective Bloch vector representation is developed and thereby it is demonstrated that the destructive photon echo stems from a destructive interference of successive repetitions of the heterodyning experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insects are major conduits of resources moving from aquatic to terrestrial systems. While the ecological impacts of insect subsidies are well documented, the underlying mechanisms by which these resources change recipient ecosystems remain poorly understood. Most subsidy inputs enter terrestrial systems as detritus; thus, soil microbes will likely influence the processing of insect subsidies, with implications for plant community composition and net primary productivity (NPP). In a subarctic ecosystem near Lake Mývatn, Iceland where midge (Diptera: Chironomidae) deposition to land is high, we investigated how insect subsidies affected litter processing and microbial communities. We also evaluated how those belowground effects related to changes in inorganic nitrogen, plant composition and NPP. We simulated subsidies by adding midge carcasses to 1‐m2 heathland plots, where we measured effects on decomposition rates and the plant community. We then studied how fertilization treatments (control, KNO3 and midge‐carcass addition) affected graminoid biomass and inorganic nitrogen in greenhouse experiments. Lastly, we conducted a soil‐incubation study with a phospholipid fatty acid analysis (PLFA) to examine how midge addition to heathland soils affected microbial respiration, biomass and composition. We found that midge addition to heathland soils increased litter decomposition and graminoid plant cover by 2.6× and 2×, respectively. Greenhouse experiments revealed similar patterns, with midge carcasses increasing graminoid biomass by at least 2× and NH4+ concentrations by 7×. Our soil‐incubation study found that midge carcasses elevated microbial respiration by 64%, microbial biomass by 43% and shifted microbial functional composition. Our findings indicate that insect subsidies can stimulate soil microbial communities and litter decomposition in subarctic heathlands, leading to increased NPP and changes in plant community composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two ferrocenylated organized molecules comprising 1,3,5- triphenylbenzene (Fc-1) or 2,4,6-triphenyl-1,3,5-triazine skeletons (Fc-2) were used for the first time as receptor layers for the electrochemical recognition of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. While our group recently reported the synthesis of Fc-1, herein the facile synthesis of its 2,4,6-triphenyl-1,3,5-triazinecontaining structural analog (Fc-2) is presented. Although the synthesis of Fc-2 was found to be challenging, we achieved a very high yield (89%) under mild conditions using an acidcatalyzed imine-bond formation reaction in 1,4-dioxane:toluene solvent system. Title compounds were comprehensively characterized with various analytical techniques, including spectroscopic (NMR, FT-IR, FT-Raman spectroscopy) methods, highresolution mass spectrometry (HRMS), microscopic (SEM) and electrochemical (CV) analyses. Fc-1 and Fc-2 were also used for the construction of the first-of-a-kind recognition layers (electrochemical sensors) dedicated to the recognition of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Fully constructed innovative sensors enabled the efficient recognition of analytes since the limit of detection (LOD) values were not higher than 2.9 μM. Comparative studies between the working parameters of electrochemical sensors comprising Fc-1 or Fc-2 were also included in this work. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NMR spectroscopy is a particularly informative method for studying protein structures and dynamics in solution; however, it is also one of the most time‐consuming. Modern approaches to biomolecular NMR spectroscopy are based on lengthy multidimensional experiments, the duration of which grows exponentially with the number of dimensions. The experimental time may even be several days in the case of 3D and 4D spectra. Moreover, the experiment often has to be repeated under several different conditions, for example, to measure the temperature‐dependent effects in a spectrum (temperature coefficients (TCs)). Herein, a new approach that involves joint sampling of indirect evolution times and temperature is proposed. This allows TCs to be measured through 3D spectra in even less time than that needed to acquire a single spectrum by using the conventional approach. Two signal processing methods that are complementary, in terms of sensitivity and resolution, 1) dividing data into overlapping subsets followed by compressed sensing reconstruction, and 2) treating the complete data set with a variant of the Radon transform, are proposed. The temperature‐swept 3D HNCO spectra of two intrinsically disordered proteins, osteopontin and CD44 cytoplasmic tail, show that this new approach makes it possible to determine TCs and their non‐linearities effectively. Non‐linearities, which indicate the presence of a compact state, are particularly interesting. The complete package of data acquisition and processing software for this new approach are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of mapping inherited cold‐climate landforms and deposits at the Muchów Hills site in the Sudetes, Central Europe (51°N). Bedrock supporting the upper slopes is basalt, with well‐developed columnar jointing, and local relief is of the order of 100 m, whereas the middle and lower slopes are underlain by glacigenic deposits. Characteristic cold‐climate landforms include rock cliffs, talus aprons, mid‐slope benches, solifluction sheets and lobes, and are integrated into sediment transport systems linking bedrock elevations with the adjacent plain. Ground identification of these features may be ambiguous, but the interpretation of high‐resolution LiDAR Digital Terrain Modeling data helped to provide a comprehensive spatial picture. Reasons for partial remodeling of inherited periglacial landforms in the Muchów Hills include biogeomorphological activity throughout the Holocene, mainly tree uprooting and resultant regolith mixing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: This paper reports on the performance of a novel system for supporting search and rescue activities, known as SARUAV (search and rescue unmanned aerial vehicle), in a field experiment during which a real‐world search scenario was simulated. The experiment took place on March 2–3, 2017, at two sites located in southwestern Poland. Three groups acted in the experiment: (1) SARUAV and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators, (2) ground searchers, and (3) participants who simulated being lost. In the uncomplicated topography without snow cover, the system identified the lost persons, and ground searchers found them 31 min after the SARUAV report had been disseminated. In the mountainous area covered with snow, one person was found within 9 min after searchers received the SARUAV report; however, the other two persons were not identified by SARUAV. The field experiment served as a proof of concept of the SARUAV system, confirmed its potential in person identification studies, and helped to identify numerous scientific and technical problems that need to be solved to develop a mature version of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since Goodenough's team laid the foundation to apply LiFePO4 as an alternative to lithium cobalt oxide for Li‐ion positive electrodes,[1,2] Web of Science (WoS)[3] has indexed over 6000 articles related to lithium iron phosphate—LFP. Manufacturers synthesize LFP with both solid state and solvent assisted hydrothermal technology. Both have their advantages and disadvantages but society requires inexpensive batteries for automobile applications and fixed electrical storage. Here we scale up each step of the nascent melt synthesis process, which has the potential to displace the current commercial technology because of its superior economics related to raw materials. The research challenges include raw material selection, melt synthesis conditions, thermodynamics, micronization to form nano‐powders, followed by spray drying, and carbon coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LiFePO4 (LFP) is a safe and low cost cathode material for Li‐ion batteries. Its solid‐state synthesis requires micron‐sized reactants yielding high production costs. Here, we melt‐synthesized up to 5 kg batches of LFP from low‐cost coarse Fe2O3 (509 µm) in an induction furnace. Graphite from the crucible was an effective reducing agent. Adding metallic Fe or CO increased the Fe2+ content and reaction kinetics. Metallic Fe improves the lifetime of the graphite crucible but requires a premixing step for it to be effective, otherwise the Fe powder agglomerates due to the presence of a eutectic in the LiPO3‐Fe‐Fe2O3 system. In a pushout furnace configuration, for an hour‐long holding period, injecting CO into the melt increased the Fe2+ content from 0.301 to 0.315 g/g, which we attributed to melt protection. Likewise, graphite powder floating on top of the melt further improved the Fe2+ content to 0.331 g/g. The Fe2+ content reached 0.325 g/g when using fine Fe3+ (142 µm) and CO as reducing agent at half the holding period at 1150 °C. We attribute the higher reaction rate to the improved contact between the suspended Fe3+ and the CO reducing gas. When the graphite crucible is the unique reducing agent, the reaction rate was proportional to the crucible base surface area. A zero‐order kinetic model characterized the solids disappearance with time. A thermal model developed to compare lab‐scale data against small pilot‐scale demonstrated that the charge lagged the furnace temperature by as much as 22 min at 1000 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The stress tests as well as photostability analysis in solutions and the solid phase of the oleanoyl oxime ibuprofenate (Ibu‐OxOA) were determined according the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines. For observation of the degradation of tested compounds, the reversed phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) method was used. The study included the effect of temperature, water, H+ and OH− ions, hydrogen peroxide, and light (6.0 × 106, 1.2 × 106 lux·h) on the stability of the tested hybrid. Studies have shown that these compounds are not stable in a neutral, acidic, or oxidizing medium; very unstable in an alkaline medium; and photostable in a solution and photostable in the solid phase. Studies on the enzymatic stability of the tested hybrid showed that it is not susceptible to degradation in the presence of plasma enzymes as well as in the presence of esterase (37°C, 80% human plasma). The degradation of this compound was observed in the presence of lipase (from Candida antarctica), and the linear dependence of the determined kinetic parameters of the reaction on the enzyme activity was demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The differentiation between dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and systolic dysfunction caused by coronary artery disease (CAD) based on clinical and echocardiographic presentation can be difficult in some cases. Aim: Our study aimed to define differences in myocardial function between patients with ischemic and nonischemic etiology of reduced left ventricular ejection fraction using 2D speckle tracking echocardiography (STE). Material and methods: We retrospectively analyzed 90 patients (mean age 65 ± 11 years, 70% male) with de novo diagnosed reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (≤45% as determined by the transthoracic echocardiography), who were referred for coronary angiography to determine the presence of significant CAD. On the basis of coronary angiography results, patients were divided into two subgroups as follows: 45 subjects with significant CAD (group A) and 45 subjects without CAD (group B). Acquired transthoracic echocardiographic images were assessed off‐line using 2DSTE. In each patient, we calculated arithmetic mean, median value, and standard deviation of regional longitudinal strain and strain rate of 18 left ventricular segments. Results: Standard deviation of the regional peak early diastolic strain rate was significantly higher in group A than in group B (P = 0.01). The cutoff value with the highest diagnostic value was >0.37/s—its sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of CAD were 73% and 53%, respectively. The remaining parameters did not differ significantly between the study groups. Conclusions: Patients with systolic dysfunction resulting from CAD have significantly more heterogeneous regional longitudinal early diastolic strain rate assessed by 2DSTE than patients with DCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Purpose: The assessment of temporal changes in systolic and diastolic regional left ventricle function by two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) after successful reperfusion therapy of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Methods: A total of 97 consecutive patients admitted with AMI and treated with successful percutaneous coronary intervention were included in this study. On days 1, 2, 3, 7, 30 and 180 following admission patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography with subsequent measurement of systolic longitudinal strain (SLS), systolic longitudinal strain rate (SRS) and early diastolic longitudinal strain rate (SRe) in left ventricular segments by speckle tracking technique. Results: The largest increase in regional SLS and SRS was observed between day 1 and 2. On days 3, 7, 30 and 180 further improvement was noticeable, but the changes were less significant. The highest prognostic value among STE parameters for predicting systolic function recovery after 6‐month‐long follow‐up was achieved by measuring SLS on day 3 (area under the curve = 0·878). Conclusions: The most of regional systolic function recovery occurs within the first 2 days. The recovery of regional diastolic function takes longer – the most significant part of improvement occurs within the first 7 days. STE parameters have prognostic value for predicting the improvement of systolic function after 180 days. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutations of plant organs are significantly affected by the circatidal modulation in the gravitational force exerted by the Moon and Sun (lunisolar tidal acceleration, Etide). In a previous study on nutational rotations of stem apices, we observed abrupt alterations in their direction and irregularities of the recorded trajectories. Such transitions have not yet been analysed in detail.Peppermint plants were continuously recorded with time‐lapse photography and aligned with contemporaneous time courses of the Etide estimates. Each nutational stem tip movement path was assigned to one of two groups, depending on its geometry, as: (i) regular elliptical movements and (ii) irregular movements (with a random type of trajectory). Analyses of the correlation between the plant nutation trajectory parameters and Etide, as well as of the trajectory geometry of the individual plants were performed.The trajectory geometry of young mint stem apices was related to the velocity of the apex rotation and significantly affected by the gravitational force estimated from the Etide. A low velocity of nutational movement, associated with the random character of the trajectory, usually occurred simultaneously with local minima or maxima of Etide. As the mint plant ages, the transitions in the stem tip trajectory were limited; no correspondence with Etide dynamics was observed.The results indicate that the plant tip geometry path transitions with respect to the changing gradient of lunisolar tidal acceleration could be interpreted as manifestation of a continuous accommodation of the shoot apical part to the state of minimum energy dissipation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to achieve required mechanical properties of hardened elements, such as gear wheels, dual-frequency induction heating may be used. Dual-frequency allows heating only the outline of the gear, due to mixed penetration depth of the subject frequencies. This method of hardening requires the process to be very short as heat may spread by means of conduction. This study presents a 3 kW prototype inverter and its control scheme is used to generate dual-frequency output current. The overall efficiency of the inverter is 96%. An analysis of the output resonant circuit is made to find the resonant frequencies. Finally, circuit and finite element method (FEM) simulations are coupled to analyse the effect of dual-frequency current on the magnetic field, current density, and energy density on the surface of a gear wheel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The theranostic probe based on carbon‐encapsulated iron nanoparticles (CEINs) is presented. First, the conjugates of CEINs and polyethylenimine (PEI) were obtained to modify the surface of CEINs with amino groups. It was archived either by means of direct radical addition of PEI to CEINs (CEINs‐NH‐PEI material) or the amidation‐type reaction between CEINs∼COOH and the polymer (CEINs∼CONH‐PEI material obtained). β‐Cyclodextrin (βCD) was selected as the drug delivery vector. βCD was covalently anchored to the PEI‐functionalized CEINs via the 1,1'‐carbonyldiimidazole‐mediated reaction. The synthesis included the conjugation of folic acid (FA; targeting ligand) to CEINs via the carbodiimide‐mediated amidation‐type process. The innovative method for excluding a side process of the FA@βCD complex formation during the FA conjugation to PEI, was developed. 5‐Fluorouracil (5‐FU) was chosen as the representative drug molecule. 5‐FU was anchored to the CEINs∼PEI∼βCD∼FA nanoplatforms employing the host‐guest chemistry of βCD. The success of the reactions was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetry. The content of anchored organic compounds depends on the type of linkage between PEI and CEINs. Additionally, 5‐FU release profile was examined at various pH. The highest release of 5‐FU was observed at pH 9.0, whilst the lowest at pH 4.7. This work sheds a new light on application of carbon‐encapsulated iron nanoparticles in nanomedicine as the novel drug delivery theranostic systems. The release of 5‐fluorouracil from the newly synthesized nanoconstructs consisting of carbon‐encapsulated iron nanoparticles, folic acid and β‐cyclodextrin, resembled the typical controlled drug release curves. The highest drug release was found for alkaline pH, whilst the lowest for acidic environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A series of polymer nanocomposites containing single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are prepared from polymerizable quaternary ammonium surfactants using photo‐polymerization and investigated by means of polarized optical microscopy, small‐angle X‐ray scattering, and rheological measurements. The surfactant monomers with various alkyl chains of nonpolar tails form lyotropic liquid crystalline (LLC) mesophases in aqueous medium with hexagonal packing of cylindrical micelles. The physical adsorption of nonpolar tails of surfactants on the surface of SWNTs results in de‐bundled nanotubes. The LLC phase diagram is investigated as functions of alkyl chain length, concentration, temperature, and SWNTs. As such, addition of SWNTs does not change the hexagonal mesophases but enhances the order–disorder transition temperatures and alters the rheological behaviors. After photo‐polymerization, the microstructures of hexagonal packing are changed while addition of SWNTs does not disrupt the resulting microstructures. The polymerized composites are consistent with both lamellar and gyroid nanostructures and a possible model is proposed to interpret the observed phenomenon. Under the shear flow, the defect‐free monodomain structures are obtained in the LLC phase and subsequently locked in the solid film after polymerization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To assess the potential ability of two‐dimensional speckle tracking analysis (STE) during atrial fibrillation (AF) to identify patients with LA appendage thrombi (LAAT). Methods: This study involved 93 patients with AF (39% female, 67.1 ± 9.5 years) who were referred for a clinical indication for transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). TEE revealed LAAT in 39 (42%) patients. We analyzed standard parameters of the left ventricle (LV) and LA in transthoracic echocardiography. Using STE, we assessed LV global longitudinal strain (LVGLS), peak atrial longitudinal strain (PALS), and intra‐atrial asynchrony. The PALS was calculated using the global strain curve (GPALS) and as the mean of peaks derived from segmental strain curves (MPALS). Results: Patients were comparable with regard to the clinical data. A subgroup with LAAT had lower LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and a lower absolute value of the LVGLS, as well as greater impairment in the LA standard parameters, PALS, and asynchrony. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed that the LVEF of 30% (P < .001), the LVGLS of −7% (P < .0001), the GPALS of 11% (P < .005), and the LA asynchrony of 22% (P < .01) were the optimal cutoff values for distinguishing both subgroups. LA asynchrony, LVEF, and LVGLS were independently associated with the presence of LAAT in multivariate analyses, and PALS had additional significance over the CHA2DS2‐VASc score. Conclusions: Left ventricular systolic dysfunction characterized by both LVEF and LVGLS is an independent factor for LAAT. LA asynchrony provides additional diagnostic value for discriminating between patients with and without LAAT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate the impact of the 2 most common bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) morphology patterns [right‐left (RL) vs right‐noncoronary (RN) cusp fusion] on the aortic diameters and the impact of gender, aortic stenosis (AS), aortic regurgitation (AR), and age on the observed effects. Methods: The PubMed databases was searched up to December 31, 2016 to identify studies investigating the morphology of BAV and aortic diameters. Inclusion criteria were as follows: the data on diameter of sinuses of Valsalva (SVD) and/or ascending aorta (AAD) and BAV morphology. The additional characteristics [gender, AS and AR (% of patients with moderate or severe AS/AR) and mean age] were collected to perform a meta‐regression analysis. Results: A total of 12 studies with 2192 patients with indexed AAD, 15 studies with 3104 patients with nonindexed AAD and 8 studies with 1271 patients with indexed SVD, and 16 studies with 3454 patients with nonindexed SVD were included. There was no difference between RL and RN group in indexed/nonindexed AAD—mean difference (MD): 0.06 mm/m2 (95% CI: −0.65 to 0.77 mm/m2, P = .87) and −0.06 mm (95% CI: 1.10–0.97 mm, P = .91). Differently, the RL BAV was associated with larger indexed/nonindexed SVD than RN phenotype—MD: 1.66 mm/m2 (95% CI: 0.83–2.49 mm/m2, P < .001) and 2.03 mm (95% CI: 0.97–3.09 mm, P < .001). Age, gender, AS, and AR had no influence on observed differences. Conclusions: RL BAV phenotype is associated with larger SVD than RN BAV, and the observed differences are independent from aortic valve dysfunction degree, age, and gender. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contents: The aim of the study was to evaluate genetic variation, reproductive performance and the degree of relationship of White‐Backed bulls entered in the breed registry and approved for breeding. The study included 32 bulls of the White‐Backed (WB) breed with an entry in the breed registry and used for breeding in the years 2003–2015. Eleven microsatellite DNA sequences (TGLA222, BM2113, TGLA53, ETH10, SPS115, TGLA126, TGLA122, INRA23, ETH3, ETH225 and BM1824) were used to analyse variation in the WB bulls. The bulls most often used for breeding were Chilon (1,073 doses), Mak (939 doses) and Jaguar (858 doses). The bulls Mak, Chilon and Jak had the greatest influence on the active population of White‐Backed cattle, with the most daughters. In the analysed population of White‐Backed bulls, a total of 79 different alleles were identified, with a mean 7.27 per locus. The analysed pool of microsatellite loci was characterized by high values for PIC, HO and HE (>0.6), and the entire population was in genetic equilibrium. The estimated level of inbreeding within the population ranged from −0.2277 (ETH225) to 0.0775 (SPS115), with a mean value of −0.0587. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The natural habitats and potential reservoirs of the nosocomial pathogen Acinetobacter baumannii are poorly defined. Here, we put forth and tested the hypothesis of avian reservoirs of A. baumannii. We screened tracheal and rectal swab samples from livestock (chicken, geese) and wild birds (white stork nestlings) and isolated A. baumannii from 3% of sampled chicken ( n = 220), 8% of geese ( n = 40) and 25% of white stork nestlings ( n = 661). Virulence of selected avian A. baumannii isolates was comparable to that of clinical isolates in the Galleria mellonella infection model. Whole genome sequencing revealed the close relationship of an antibiotic-susceptible chicken isolate from Germany with a multidrug-resistant human clinical isolate from China and additional linkages between livestock isolates and human clinical isolates related to international clonal lineages. Moreover, we identified stork isolates related to human clinical isolates from the United States. Multilocus sequence typing disclosed further kinship between avian and human isolates. Avian isolates do not form a distinct clade within the phylogeny of A. baumannii, instead they diverge into different lineages. Further, we provide evidence that A. baumannii is constantly present in the habitats occupied by storks. Collectively, our study suggests A. baumannii could be a zoonotic organism that may disseminate into livestock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapeseed proteins have been considered as being poorly digestible in the gut of non-ruminants. The aim of the study was to assess the digestibility of napin and cruciferin in ileal digesta of broiler chickens, testing sixteen samples of rapeseed co-products with protein levels ranging from 293 g/kg to 560 g/kg dry matter. Each sample was included into a semi-synthetic diet at a rate of 500 g/kg and evaluated with broiler chickens in a randomised design. Dietary and ileal digesta proteins were extracted and identified by gel-based liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry ( LC- MS/ MS). Three isomers of napin (a 2S albumin) and nine cruciferins (an 11S globulin) were identified in the rapeseed co-products, whereas six endogenous enzymes such as trypsin (I-P1, II-P29), chymotrypsin (elastase and precursor), carboxypeptidase B and α-amylase were found in the ileal digesta. It is concluded that as none of the rapeseed proteins were detected in the ileal digesta, rapeseed proteins can be readily digested by broiler chickens, irrespective of the protein content in the diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The right heart pulmonary circulation unit ( RH- PCU) is a key determinant of prognosis in several cardiorespiratory diseases. Although right heart catheterization is considered the gold standard for pulmonary hemodynamic assessment, a comprehensive cardiovascular ultrasound approach is an essential step in the diagnostic-prognostic clinical pathway of patients with suspect or overt pulmonary hypertension. The exponential development of advanced ultrasound techniques (strain, 3-dimensional echocardiography and lung ultrasound) has led to new insights into the evaluation of RH- PCU structure and function, overcoming some limitations of standard Doppler echocardiography. In the near future, exercise Doppler echocardiography may become a useful technique for detecting a latent stage of pulmonary hypertension and for evaluating right ventricular contractile reserve. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background The relationship between visual and strain assessment of left ventricular ( LV) function during dobutamine stress echocardiography ( DSE) remains poorly investigated. We assessed systolic longitudinal strain ( SLS) and strain rate ( SLSR) in segments visually graded as normokinetic, hypokinetic, or akinetic at baseline (0) and peak stage (1) of DSE and compared deformation changes between segments with and without induced contractility worsening. Methods From 250 patients examined by DSE, 238 patients with diagnostic test were included, mean age of 62±9 years (105 females). Regional LV contractility was assessed visually and measured using SLS and SLSR in 4284 segments. Results The LV segments during baseline and peak stage of DSE revealed gradual decrease in absolute values of SLS (from 17.7±6.4% in normokinetic to 11.7±8.4% in akinetic segments at rest, and from 17.2±8.5% to 14.4±7.8% at peak, P<.001), as measured by automated function imaging ( AFI) and SLSR (from 1.1±0.37 s−1 in normokinetic to 0.9±0.29 s−1 in akinetic at rest, and from 2.32±0.92 to 2.13±0.85 s−1 at peak). The decrease in SLS in segments with contractility worsening was higher than in segments without induced impairment (Δ SLS 2% vs 0%, P<.0001 for all LV segments and 2% vs 1%, P=.02 in mid- LV segments). Absolute value of regional SLS <23% at peak DSE and decrease in SLS >2% from baseline showed 90% and 76% sensitivity for the detection of contractility impairment. Conclusion Strain analysis quantifies segmental LV contractility not only at rest and peak DSE but may be helpful in detection of stress-induced contractility worsening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For a locally compact quantum group [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electric machines have broadly been used in many industries including the transportation industry. With the evolving trend of electrification in transportation, electric machines with higher power density and higher efficiency are demanded and, thus, more stringent thermal management requirements are needed for electrified vehicle applications. This study comprehensively presents various important aspects of thermal management in electric machines with the main focus on transportation applications. Design considerations, challenges, and methods for enhanced thermal management are discussed. Fundamental thermal properties of common materials are presented and sources of losses in various parts of machines are explained. Furthermore, typical cooling techniques and thermal analysis approaches for electric machines are reviewed in detail. This study will serve as a reference guideline for machine designers, who are interested in thermal management, and for thermal researchers working on electric machines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Patients (pts) scheduled for coronary artery bypass grafting, burdened with high risk of carotid stenosis, are recommended to undergo duplex ultrasonography (DUS) of carotid arteries. Purpose To validate pocket-size imaging device (PSID) equipped with linear probe as an easily accessible tool enabling bedside screening for carotid artery stenosis (CAS). Methods A total of 100 pts (60 men, mean age 69±11 years) with multivessel coronary artery disease underwent bedside DUS of carotid arteries with the use of PSID performed by a cardiology resident trained in DUS. Subsequently, DUS with the use of stationary high-end ultrasound system was performed in all pts to verify findings of PSID examination. Results Initial diagnosis of atherosclerotic plaque presence obtained with PSID in 59 patients was confirmed by high-end ultrasound system examination in all cases. There was a statistically significant correlation of intima-media thickness measurements between PSID and stationary system ( r=.58; 95% CI: 0.48-0.66; P<.0001), but the coefficient of agreement (κ) between the two methods in classification of intima-media as normal or thickened (>0.9 mm) was only .38 (95% CI: 0.299-0.459). During PSID examination, turbulent flow was observed in 21 pts-CAS was confirmed in all these pts-5 pts were diagnosed with significant CAS, the rest with CAS ranging from 30% to 70%. Conclusions Pocket-size imaging device equipped with linear probe allows for identification of patients with atherosclerotic plaques and turbulent flow in carotid arteries; however, the degree of CAS cannot be reliably determined. The measurement accuracy of intima-media thickness is insufficient for a diagnostic purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose The aim of this study was to analyse the indentation and deformation of the corneal surface, as well as eye retraction, which occur during air puff intraocular pressure ( IOP) measurement. Methods A group of 10 subjects was examined using a non-contact Corvis ST tonometer, which records image sequences of corneas deformed by an air puff. Obtained images were processed numerically in order to extract information about corneal deformation, indentation and eyeball retraction. Results The time dependency of the apex deformation/eye retraction ratio and the curve of dependency between apex indentation and eye retraction take characteristic shapes for individual subjects. It was noticed that the eye globes tend to rotate towards the nose in response to the air blast during measurement. This means that the eye globe not only displaces but also rotates during retraction. Some new parameters describing the shape of this curve are introduced. Our data show that intraocular pressure and amplitude of corneal indentation are inversely related ( r8 = −0.83, P = 0.0029), but the correlation between intraocular pressure and amplitude of eye retraction is low and not significant ( r8 = −0.24, P = 0.51). Conclusions The curves describing corneal behaviour during air puff tonometry were determined and show that the eye globe rotates towards the nose during measurement. In addition, eye retraction amplitudes may be related to elastic or viscoelastic properties of deeper structures in the eye or behind the eye and this should be further investigated. Many of the proposed new parameters present comparable or even higher repeatability than the standard parameters provided by the Corvis ST. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Purpose: Quantification of changes in optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) using ocular sonography (OS) constitutes an elegant technique for estimating intracranial and intraspinal pressure. Aortic aneurysm repair (AAR) is associated with a reasonable risk of increased spinal fluid pressure, which is largely dependent on the extent of aneurysm repair (supra- vs. infrarenal). The aim of this study was to compare ONSD measurements in patients with suprarenal AAR (sAAR) or infrarenal AAR (iAAR).Methods: Thirty patients who underwent elective endovascular repair of infrarenal aortic aneurysms (Group iAAR) were included in the study; the characteristics in these cases were prospectively analyzed and compared with those in a previously investigated group of 28 patients treated for suprarenal aortic aneurysms (Group sAAR). Six measurements of ONSDs were performed in each patient at five consecutive time points. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon test. A P value < .05 was considered statistically significant.Results: A highly significant difference between pre- and postinterventional values could be detected in both patient groups (P < .01). In Group sAAR, there was a mean .3-mm increase of the ONSD, whereas in Group iAAR, a mean .2-mm decrease could be detected. Both groups roughly reached baseline values by the end of their inpatient stay.Conclusions: ONSD changes seem to be a reliable marker to estimate spinal perfusion. Since OS provides a suitable bedside tool for rapid reevaluation, it may guide physicians in the identification and treatment of patients at high risk for spinal cord ischemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyaluminium chloride ( PAC) addition has been proposed as a technique to precipitate dissolved phosphorus (P) and reduce the internal loading of P in eutrophic hardwater lakes. However, the direct and indirect detrimental effects of PAC on aquatic communities and ecosystem processes are virtually unknown., We determined how PAC may affect a leaf litter-fungus-shredder decomposition system in the littoral habitat of eutrophic hardwater lakes.We hypothesised that PAC will exert little direct toxicity on aquatic organisms at high pH but trigger indirect bottom-up effects by affecting fungal biomass, leaf litter food quality (Al, N and P contents), trophic transfer and the behaviour and performance of a leaf-shredding consumer., We tested these hypotheses in a microcosm experiment involving a leaf-shredding amphipod, Gammarus pulex, offered conditioned aspen leaves as food. We measured concentrations of Al, N, P and organic C in water, leaves and gammarids; fungal biomass associated with leaf litter; gammarid survival, body mass, feeding rate ( FR) and N assimilation efficiency; and fine-particulate organic matter ( FPOM) generation in microcosms receiving 0, 2 and 20 g Al flakes per m2., Survival rates of G. pulex were similar in all microcosms, suggesting that even the high dose of Al flakes was below lethal levels. However, exposure to Al flakes decreased fungal biomass in leaves, the FR of gammarids, FPOM production and N assimilation efficiency. The C/N and C/P ratios of both leaves and gammarids also decreased in microcosms receiving Al flakes, supporting the hypothesis that stoichiometric imbalances between food and consumers were altered by exposure to Al flakes., These results point to the importance of indirect effects of PAC on lake communities and ecosystems beyond direct toxicity on invertebrates. Although not all those effects are necessarily undesirable, their numbers, interdependencies and potential to act in concert suggest they need to be considered in ecotoxicological assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The Sinclair Scale of hair midline density is commonly used in clinical dermatology practice as a tool to evaluate the severity of female pattern hair loss (synonym androgenetic alopecia, AGA) and to monitor patient response to treatment. The Sinclair Scale involves a visual evaluation of central hair parting line width, that is performed quickly and with no optical instrumentation. Another approach used to score severity of hair loss is quantitative trichoscopy. While quantitative trichoscopy is more accurate in terms of reproducibility and objectivity, it is more time‐consuming. Materials and Methods: Patients with different stages of AGA were evaluated using both the Sinclair Scale and quantitative trichoscopy. A correlation analysis was performed between the Sinclair Scale and different parameters derived from statistical analysis of trichoscopy images. A novel parameter, cumulative hair thickness density was introduced. Results: Very good correlation was observed between Sinclair Scale and the cumulative hair thickness density. The quality of correlation is sufficient to estimate Sinclair Scale from cumulative hair thickness density. A formula to calculate the 'Trichoscopy Derived Sinclair Scale' from trichoscopy statistics was derived. Discussion: We propose the term 'Trichoscopy Derived Sinclair Scale' to describe the hair midline density as derived from trichoscopy and to differentiate this assessment of midline hair density from the traditional one based on visual inspection alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]