Search

Objective Methods Results Conclusion Moisturizers are integral to daily skincare routines, reflecting the increasing trend among people towards cosmetic products, particularly for skin care. They significantly contribute to preserving skin health, particularly by regulating the epidermal barrier and moisture levels within the skin. This study aims to explore the moisturizing and antioxidant effect of skin barrier restoring cream Moiz MM (MZ) with shea butter, silkflo and vitamin E by investigating its protective effect against oxidative stress‐induced cellular damage and therapeutic mechanisms in human keratinocytes cells (HaCaT).The in vitro antioxidant activity of MZ was evaluated by DPPH, ABTS and NO assays. For the cell culture study, HaCaT cells were cultured and stimulated using H2O2 and then treated with different concentrations of MZ. Then, it was subjected to DCFH‐DA staining, reverse transcriptase PCR and western blot analysis for the evaluation of various skin‐moisture‐related components in human keratinocyte cells. Type I procollagen was examined using ELISA technique.The results highlighted that oxidative stress in HaCaT cells decreased type I procollagen synthesis, while MZ treatment significantly increased the synthesis. Moreover, the viability of HaCaT cells was not affected in the presence of MZ, which demonstrates its non‐toxic effect. Furthermore, MZ can counteract H2O2‐mediated oxidative stress by enhancing the antioxidant enzyme activity such as superoxide dismutase and catalase, and decrease reactive oxygen species generation in skin cells. Additionally, MZ greatly promotes hyaluronic acid production by enhancing the expression of the hyaluronic acid synthase‐1 gene and Aquaporin 3 protein.This study suggests that MZ has the potential to serve as a moisturizing and antioxidant skincare formula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Individuals with bipolar disorders (BD) have heterogenic pre‐onset illness courses and responses to treatment. The pattern of illness preceding the diagnosis of BD may be a marker of future treatment response. Here, we examined associations between psychiatric morbidity preceding the diagnosis of BD and pharmacological treatment patterns in the 2 years following diagnosis. Methods: In this register‐based study, we included all patients with a diagnosis of BD attending Danish Psychiatric Services between January 1, 2012 and December 31, 2016. We examined the association between a diagnosis of substance use disorder, psychosis (other than schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder), unipolar depression, anxiety/OCD, PTSD, personality disorder, or ADHD preceding BD and pharmacological treatment patterns following the diagnosis of BD (lithium, valproate, lamotrigine, antidepressants, olanzapine, risperidone, and quetiapine) via multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression adjusted for age, sex, and year of BD diagnosis. Results: We included 9594 patients with a median age of 39 years, 58% of whom were female. Antidepressants, quetiapine, and lamotrigine were the most commonly used medications in BD and were all linked to prior depressive illness and female sex. Lithium was used among patients with less diagnostic heterogeneity preceding BD, while valproate was more likely to be used for patients with prior substance use disorder or ADHD. Conclusion: The pharmacological treatment of BD is linked to psychiatric morbidity preceding its diagnosis. Assuming that these associations reflect well‐informed clinical decisions, this knowledge may inform future clinical trials by taking participants' prior morbidity into account in treatment allocation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Fifth generation cellular networks have high data rates and connectivity demands. The relaying approaches are widely used in cellular networks to improve coverage, user throughput, and capacity at low cost. The increasing data requirements of the mobile network increase energy consumption. Energy efficiency‐based approaches also impact network coverage and throughput. Therefore, developing an energy‐efficient network with optimal coverage and throughput is considered a challenging issue. It can be resolved with optimal deployment of Base Station (BS), Relay Station (RS), and minimizing power consumption. In this research, a joint clustering‐based deployment technique is proposed for BS–RS deployment by considering the network throughput and coverage ratio. After enabling optimal BS–RS deployment, the network traffic is estimated with an On‐demand real‐time traffic estimation framework (ODTE). It estimates user association values using Beacon frames. In addition, the Relay Assisted Base station Power Scheduling (RABPS) approach to minimize power consumption is included. Based on Erlang's probability, the RABPS algorithm is enhanced with sleep mode activation during off‐peak hours. The proposed 5G network ensures uninterrupted connectivity and energy efficiency with varying time slots of power scheduling. The throughput performance of the clustering‐based approach is increased with a coverage ratio of 88%. The simulation results show the superiority of the proposed 5G BS–RS deployment and power scheduling in terms of throughput, coverage ratio, and power consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Cognitive impairments negatively impact the everyday functioning of young people with mental illness. However, no previous study has asked young people (1) how much of a priority cognitive functioning is within mental health treatment, and (2) what types of cognition‐focused treatments are most appealing. The current study aimed to address these questions. Methods: Your Mind, Your Choice was a survey‐based study involving an Australian sample of young people who were receiving mental health treatment. The survey asked participants to (1) provide demographic and mental health history, (2) rate the importance of 20 recovery domains, including cognition, when receiving mental health treatment, (3) share their experiences of cognitive functioning, and (4) rate their likelihood of trying 14 different behavioural, biochemical, and physical treatments that may address cognitive functioning. Results: Two‐hundred and forty‐three participants (Mage = 20.07, SD = 3.25, range = 15–25, 74% female) completed the survey. Participants reported that addressing cognitive functioning in mental health care was very important (M = 76.33, SD = 20.7, rated on a scale from 0 = not important to 100 = extremely important), ranking cognition among their top six treatment needs. Seventy percent of participants reported experiencing cognitive difficulties, but less than one‐third had received treatment for these difficulties. Compensatory training, sleep interventions and psychoeducation were ranked as treatments that participants were most likely to try to support their cognitive functioning. Conclusions: Young people with mental ill‐health commonly experience cognitive difficulties and would like this to be a focus of treatment; however, this need is often unmet and should be a focus of research and implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microaneurysms (MAs) are the early indications of diabetic retinopathy (DR), which may result in total visual loss. MAs detection is an exciting work due to its small, darkish color and subtle nature. The automatic detection and categorization of MAs in retinal fundus images using a multi‐scale approach based on Deep Neural Networks and Neighborhood Analysis is proposed in this research article. MAs segmentation, classification, and preprocessing comprise the three steps of the proposed technique. To extract the multi‐scale MA features, the auto‐weight dilated convolutional unit (AD) is specifically used for convolutional feature maps. To fuse convolutional feature maps in encoding layers, the AD unit used a learnable set of parameters. An efficient architecture for feature extraction during the encoding step is incorporated into the AD unit. We integrated the AD unit with the benefits of the U‐Net network for deep and shallow features. Additionally, in order to improve the suggested model and produce the final derivation, we developed a novel optimization approach. After that, neighborhood analysis is performed to name the Micro‐aneurysm because the lesion is actually a collection of independent little images rather than the entire image. The classification accuracy of the proposed method for the three different data sets such as MESSIDOR, online retinal fundus image database for glaucoma analysis (ORIGA), and RIM‐ONE‐R1, is 99.28%, 98.95%, and 98.76% respectively. The results show a good performance of the proposed model against the other analyzed procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet drug widely prescribed to prevent atherothrombotic events in coronary artery disease patients. However, there is evidence to suggest that the effectiveness of clopidogrel varies owing to genetic diversity in CYP2C19. This heterogeneity in South Asians, who are also known to have high risk of cardiac events than other population groups, highlights the importance of investigating CYP2C19 variants to estimate the risk proportion in the groups. Methods: Given the high prevalence and genetic heterogeneity, the population‐based case control was conducted in a cohort of 1191 subjects comprising 645 acute coronary syndrome (ACS) cases (unstable angina, ST‐elevation myocardial infarction, and non‐ST‐elevation myocardial infarction) and 546 healthy controls of South Asian Indian origin. The metabolization status of CYP2C19 was assessed using *2, *3 and *17 variants in the stated cohorts to determine the prevalence of metabolization and its association with phenotypes. Results: The results suggest a possible genetic association between studied CYP2C19 polymorphisms and ACS, since there was a higher proportion of intermediate and poor metabolizers present in the studied cohorts. The association analyses revealed that the *2 allele of CYP2C19 confers a significant risk for ACS, while the *17 allele provides protection. Conclusions: These findings contribute to the understanding of CYP2C19 genetic variants and their impact on clopidogrel response in South Asian Indians. Additionally, they underline the significance of assessing CYP2C19 variations in patients receiving clopidogrel therapy in order to improve therapeutic outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) have gained significant attention in cancer research due to their critical role in tumour metabolism. MCTs are legends for transporting lactate molecules in cancer cells, an oncometabolite and waste product of glycolysis, acting as an indispensable factor of tumour proliferation. Targeting MCTs with inhibitors has emerged as a promising strategy to combat tumorigenesis. This article summarizes the most recent research on MCT inhibitors in preventing carcinogenesis, covering both heterocyclic and non‐heterocyclic compounds. Heterocyclic and non‐heterocyclic compounds such as pteridine, pyrazole, indole, flavonoids, coumarin derivatives and cyanoacetic acid derivatives have been reported as potent MCT inhibitors. We examine the molecular underpinnings of MCTs in cancer metabolism, the design and synthesis of heterocyclic and non‐heterocyclic MCT inhibitors, their impact on tumour cells and the microenvironment and their potential as therapeutic agents. Moreover, we explore the challenges associated with MCT inhibitor development and propose future directions for advancing this field. This write‐up aims to provide researchers, scientists and clinicians with a comprehensive understanding of the heterocyclic and non‐heterocyclic MCT inhibitors and their potential in combating tumorigenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the need for reliable criteria to detect and manage at-risk states for bipolar disorders. The pre-onset phenotype of bipolar disorder is characterized by non-specific symptoms that overlap with other high prevalence disorders. Presentations of manic-like experiences are the most robust predictors of early transition to full-threshold mania. Genetic factors and phenomenology, such as depression with atypical symptoms, can also be used to detect the prodrome. Various instruments and approaches have been developed to detect at-risk states, but further research is needed to validate their effectiveness. Early intervention and tailored therapies are important for managing individuals at risk for bipolar disorder. [Extracted from the article]

EGFR‐positive non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) due to primary mutation (EGFR DEL19 & L858R) has been recognized as a crucial mediator of tumor progression. This led to the development and approval of EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitors, which addresses EGFR‐mediated NSCLC but fail to show potency after initial months of therapy due to acquired resistance (EGFR T790M, EGFR C797S). Extensive research allowed identification of drugs for EGFR‐positive NSCLC, wherein the majority of compounds have a pyrimidine substructure offering marked therapeutic benefits compared with chemotherapy. This current review outlines the diverse pyrimidine derivatives with amino‐linked and fused pyrimidine scaffolds such as furo‐pyrimidine, pyrimido‐pyrimidine, thieno‐pyrimidine, highlighting pyrimidine EGFR TK inhibitors reported in research emphasizing structural aspects, design approaches, inhibition potential, selectivity profile toward mutant EGFR conveyed through biological evaluation studies. Furthermore, mentioning the in‐silico interaction profile of synthesized compounds for evaluating the binding affinity with key amino acids. The epilogue of review focuses on the recent research that drives forward to aid in the discovery and development of substituted amino and fused scaffolds of pyrimidine that can counteract the mutations and effectively manage EGFR‐positive NSCLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Specialist early intervention (SEI) service models are designed to treat symptoms, promote social and vocational recovery, prevent relapse, and resource and up‐skill patients and their families. The benefits of SEI over the first few years have been demonstrated. While early recovery can be expected to translate to better long‐term outcomes by analogy with other illnesses, there is limited evidence to support this from follow‐up studies. The current study involves the long‐term follow‐up of a sub‐set of first episode psychosis (FEP) patients, with a range of diagnoses, who were first treated at Orygen's Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre (EPPIC) between 1998 and 2000. The aim of this paper is to present the methodology for this follow‐up study. Methods: Between January 1998 and December 2000, 786 patients between the ages of 15–29 years were treated at EPPIC, located in Melbourne, Australia. Our cohort consists of 661 people (82 were transferred/discharged and 43 were not diagnosed with a psychotic disorder at time of discharge). The 18‐month treatment characteristics of this cohort have been extensively examined in the First Episode Psychosis Outcome Study (FEPOS). The ≥15 year outcomes of this cohort are being examined in this study, known as FEPOS15. Results: Participant follow‐up is ongoing. In order to extend and assess broader outcomes of the cohort, data linkage with health‐related databases will be conducted. Conclusion: This study will provide a comprehensive evaluation of the long‐term trajectory of psychotic disorders after treatment for FEP in a SEI service. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Prevention and early intervention efforts of serious mental illnesses has yielded promising results. However, alongside benefits, several ethical concerns have been raised, including the effects of being identified as being at‐risk. In these debates, the voice of parents or carers is conspicuously absent. This is especially concerning as several at‐risk interventions are trialled in under‐age youth where parents consent on behalf of young people. Therefore, this study aimed to understand carer's experiences of their teenager being identified as at risk for psychosis. Methods: Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with seven carers who had provided consent for their teenager to participate in a stepped intervention study for youth at‐risk for psychosis. Questions explored their experiences regarding having their teenager being identified as at‐risk. Transcripts were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: We identified five main themes from seven female carers' experiences of risk identification including: (a) recall of risk information was limited, or variable, (b) goal of risk disclosure was perceived to be positive, (c) negative emotions were associated with knowledge of risk, (d) relief from uncertainty and helplessness and (e) effects of risk disclosure were mediated by individual circumstance. Conclusion: Overall, the results demonstrate that carers' experience of risk disclosure varied with factors surrounding their individual circumstances, and the process of disclosure. Whilst participants acknowledged potential adverse effects associated with risk disclosure, many still adopted a positive outlook. Tailoring safe and effective disclosure of risk to suit the needs of youth and carers could outweigh the potential risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: There is a lack of existing research regarding young people with bipolar I disorder (BD‐I) and psychotic features, who are not in education, employment, and training (NEET). Thus, the aims of the study were to: (a) establish rates of NEET at service entry to a specialist early intervention service; (b) delineate premorbid and current variables associated with NEET status at service entry and (c) examine correlates of NEET status at discharge. Method: Medical file audit methodology was utilized to collect information on 118 patients with first episode psychotic mania treated at the Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre (EPPIC), Melbourne, Australia. NEET status was determined using the modified vocation status index (MVCI). Bivariate and multivariable logistic variables were used to examine relationships between premorbid, service entry and treatment variables, and NEET status at service entry and discharge. Results: The NEET rate was 33.9% at service entry, and 39.2% at discharge. Variables associated with NEET status at service entry were premorbid functioning and polysubstance use. NEET status at service entry was the only significant correlate of NEET status at discharge. When service entry NEET was taken out of the model, substance use during treatment was predictive of NEET status at discharge. Conclusions: NEET status at service entry was related to a history of premorbid decline, and risk factors such as substance use and forensic issues. NEET status can decline during treatment, and utility of vocational intervention programs specifically for BD, in addition to specialist early intervention, needs to be examined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Personality disorder is a common co‐occurrence ('comorbidity') among patients with bipolar disorder and appears to affect outcome negatively. However, there is little knowledge about the impact of this comorbidity in the early phases of bipolar disorder. We examined the prevalence and effect of personality disorder co‐occurrence on outcome in a cohort of youth with first episode mania with psychotic features. Methods: Seventy‐one first episode mania patients, aged 15–29, were assessed at baseline, 6, 12, and 18 months as part of a randomized controlled trial of olanzapine and chlorpromazine as add‐on to lithium in first episode mania with psychotic features. The current study involved secondary analysis of trial data. Results: A co‐occurring clinical personality disorder diagnosis was present in 16.9% of patients. Antisocial and narcissistic personality disorders were the most common diagnoses. Patients with co‐occurring personality disorder had higher rates of readmission to hospital, lower rates of symptomatic recovery and poorer functional levels at 6 months, but these differences disappeared after 12 and 18 months. Conclusions: In the early phase of bipolar disorder, patients with personality disorder comorbidity display delayed symptomatic and functional recovery and increased likelihood to need hospital readmissions. These observations suggest that routine assessment for personality disorder and specific interventions are important in order to improve short‐term treatment efficacy in this subgroup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steady state optical properties such as photo‐absorption and photo‐luminescence characteristics of organic molecules in its bulk states viz, film or crystalline forms are highly sensitive to subtle alteration of chemical substitution, molecular geometry in bulk and the electronic state coupling between a pair of molecules. Here we highlight a distinct interference of rhodanine substitution on such optical properties of a group of similar molecules (2TR, 23TR). For comparison an anthracene conjugate model molecule was also chosen (AR). In the former case, despite of having similar molecular structure except the presence of a methyl group at the C3 position (which ensures the identical electronic states in both the case) and similar molecular packing in single crystals, 2TR and 23TR exhibited diagonally opposite solid‐state fluorescence behavior. 2TR was non‐fluorescent whereas, 23TR was highly emissive in its crystalline solid state. A minute substitutional change in chemical structure was found to alter the solid‐state fluorescence behavior immensely that was attributed to the non‐radiative loss in the former case due to the solid‐state C−C bond flip which was further proven by temperature dependent fluorescence experiments. At a sample temperature of <120 K, 20‐fold enhancement in the fluorescence intensity was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecules with bi‐stable electronic transport behaviour have been in upfront research topics of the molecular semiconductor devices in the past few decades due to the use of such materials in resistive data storage devices. Transition metal complexes (TMC) are expected to be potential candidates in regard to the tunable and manifold redox behaviour expecting multiple bulk transport states. Finding alternate mechanisms in such devices with TMC as the active layer materials would revoke the multifaceted approach to the functional gain. We have succeeded in demonstrating write once‐read many (WORM) type of resistive memory device using a homoleptic Cobalt(II) (Co(II)) complex with large on/off current ratio ensuring the easy readout process at lower voltage. The advantage of this device was the turn on voltage was found to be the low (<2.7 V) operational voltage and the success ratio of the devices were more than 83%. The durability of the stored data was found to be more than 35,000 seconds which ensures the stability of the bistable state in the fabricated devices. Such ambient stable, solution processable devices are important for the large‐scale printable devices. The manuscript describes the preparation, optical and electrochemical characterisation of the metal complex used along with a detailed mechanistic investigations and electrical characterisation of memory device obtained from a stable cobalt complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 6-week, randomized, open-label, active-controlled clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the influence of a low-dose curcumagalactomannosides (CGM) (400 mg once daily) in OA subjects. The treatment was compared with a standard combination of 500 mg glucosamine hydrochloride (GLN) and 415 mg chondroitin sulphate (CHN), supplied as a single oral dose twice a day. Out of 84 subjects randomized, 72 subjects who have completed the study were evaluated for the safety and efficacy of the treatments at baseline and subsequent visits (day 28 and 42), by measuring walking performance, VAS, KPS, and WOMAC scores. CGM exhibited 47.02, 21.43, and 206% improvement in VAS, KPS, and walking performance, respectively, compared to the baseline. Similarly, there was 31.17, 32.93, 36.44, and 35% improvement in the pain, stiffness, physical function, and total WOMAC scores. CGM also caused a substantial reduction in the serum inflammatory marker levels. The results indicate that a short-term supplementation of a low dosage CGM exerted superior beneficial effects than a high-dosage CHN-GLN combination in alleviating the pain and symptoms of OA subjects. Further clinical trials of extended duration in a larger population is required to substantiate the efficacy of CGM in the long-term management of OA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Controlled self‐organization of organic semiconductor molecules into specifically desired architectures on substrates of interest is one of the most imperative challenges faced in the fabrication of high‐performance organic electronic devices. Herein, we report the self‐organization of a star‐shaped molecule FDT‐8 into a highly favored structure, namely, a vertical stack. Thermal annealing of films of FDT‐8 deposited on PEDOT: PSS coated ITO substrates was observed to assist the organization of the molecules into columnar stacks. A significant enhancement in the hole (≈50‐fold) and the electron (≈13‐fold) carrier mobility was observed in single‐carrier devices upon thermal annealing that could be attributed to the aforementioned self‐organization. The ability of these molecules to spontaneously self‐organize was utilized to fabricate bilayer light‐emitting devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Control over the molecular packing in the solid state is of utmost importance in regulating the bulk optical properties of organic semiconductors. The electronic coupling between the molecules makes it possible to improve the properties of the bulk materials. This work reports an example of control over the selective formation of polymorphic single crystals of donor–acceptor‐type small‐molecule compound 25TR by 1) kinetic or 2) thermodynamic course of crystallisation to yield slipped stack (S) and cofacial (C) dimers in the single crystals. The distinct optical characteristics of the C‐dimer and S‐dimer are summarised. Both forms show significant excitonic interactions in the solid state, and the S‐dimeric form has strong yellowish orange fluorescence, whereas the C‐dimeric form is non‐fluorescent in the crystalline state. DFT calculations and differential scanning calorimetric experiments revealed that the C‐dimer polymorph is the thermodynamically stable form with a free energy offset of 0.43 eV in comparison with the S‐dimer. Interestingly, the thermodynamically driven non‐fluorescent single crystal was found to be convertible to its fluorescent form irreversibly by thermal trigger. The charge‐carrier‐transport characteristics of these two polymorphs were computed by using the Marcus–Hush formalism. The computations of the charge‐carrier‐transport behaviour revealed that the S‐dimer (25TR(R)) is ambipolar, whereas the C‐dimer (25TR(Y)) is predominantly n‐type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrophobic collapse plays crucial roles in protein functions, from accessing the complex three‐dimensional structures of native enzymes to the dynamic polymerization of non‐equilibrium microtubules. However, hydrophobic collapse can also lead to the thermodynamically downhill aggregation of aberrant proteins, which has interestingly led to the development of a unique class of soft nanomaterials. There remain critical gaps in the understanding of the mechanisms of how hydrophobic collapse can regulate such aggregation. Demonstrated herein is a methodology for non‐equilibrium amyloid polymerization through mutations of the core sequence of Aβ peptides by a thermodynamically activated moiety. An out of equilibrium state is realized because of the negative feedback from the transiently formed cross‐β amyloid networks. Such non‐equilibrium amyloid nanostructures were utilized to access temporal control over its electronic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Geophysical studies of the tectonic links between Sri Lanka and India are limited, and consequent paleo‐fit configurations differ and remain uncertain. Here, we present first‐order constraints for an optimum link between Sri Lanka and southern India by using high‐resolution maps of elastic thickness (Te) and crustal thickness (Tc) derived from a flexure inversion method that based on the space‐domain convolution technique for a data window covering integral continental‐oceanic lithospheric setting. We find that the spatial variations of Te and Tc over different crustal provinces in southern India and Sri Lanka agree well with their tectonic classifications proposed by geological studies. Importantly, this study provides much‐needed confirmation of the rifting and associated lithospheric deformation along the mirrored continental margins of India and Sri Lanka and in the intervening transitional lithosphere. The two margins are marked by patterns of low Te and thinned crust, which suggests that an anticlockwise rift (eastward rift) of Sri Lanka away from India resulted in the creation of the Mannar Basin, and a secondary N‐S rifting gave rise to the Cauvery Basin. However, these developments led to a final failed rift, which we attribute to a mechanically strong continental lithospheric bond (a NW‐SE zone of high‐Te and relatively thick crust) that was present in the intervening Palk Strait. We matched the identical zones of Te variations along the two mirrored continental margins and thus obtained a coherent paleo‐fit configuration, and a step‐by‐step evolution of these margins was constructed by using magnetic anomaly‐based paleo‐fit reconstruction models. Key Points: We derived elastic thickness and crustal thickness variations across the continental‐oceanic setting of India and Sri LankaEvidence for anticlockwise rotation of Sri Lanka and evolution of the Mannar‐Palk Strait‐Cauvery BasinsGeophysical results reveal correlation of the mirrored margins of India and Sri Lanka that give rise to their paleo‐fit configuration [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A transition metal‐free multicomponent coupling of 2‐arylidene/heteroarylidene carbazole with alkyne and nitrile in the presence of Lewis acid BF3.OEt2 is described. This method was proven to be usable for the preparation of library of N‐acetylated pyrido[3,4‐a]carbazoles. Conversely, p‐toluenesulfonic acid‐catalyzed hetero annulation of uracil with 2‐arylidene carbazole afforded novel aromatic pyrimido[5′,4′:5,6]pyrido[2,3‐a]carbazoles in isolated yields of up to 82 % in solid‐state manner. The structures of the synthesized heterocycles were confirmed by elemental analysis and spectral data. The salient features of these one‐pot methods are rapid formation of products with moderate to good yields, readily accessible reactants and involve less hazardous chemical techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inspired by copper‐based oxygen reduction biocatalysts, we have studied the electrocatalytic behavior of a Cu‐based MOF (Cu‐BTT) for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline medium. This catalyst reduces the oxygen at the onset (Eonset) and half‐wave potential (E1/2) of 0. 940 V and 0.778 V, respectively. The high halfway potential supports the good activity of Cu‐BTT MOF. The high ORR catalytic activity can be interpreted by the presence of nitrogen‐rich ligand (tetrazole) and the generation of nascent copper(I) during the reaction. In addition to the excellent activity, Cu‐BTT MOF showed exceptional stability too, which was confirmed through chronoamperometry study, where current was unchanged up to 12 h. Further, the 4‐electrons transfer of ORR kinetics was confirmed by hydrodynamic voltammetry. The oxygen active center namely copper(I) generation during ORR has been understood by the reduction peak in cyclic voltammetry as well in the XPS analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Young people with bipolar disorder (BD) commonly experience reduced quality of life, persistent symptoms and impaired functional recovery despite often superior school performance. Compromised long‐term functioning can ensue. There is evidence that psychological therapies alongside pharmacology may be more efficacious earlier in the course of the disorder. Intervention in the early stages may thus reduce the burden and risk associated with BD and mitigate the impact of the disorder on normal developmental trajectories. To date, however, the availability of evidence‐based psychological therapies for young people with early BD is limited. Furthermore, there are no large‐scale randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of such interventions. Methods: The study is a prospective, single‐blind, RCT examining the effectiveness of an adjunctive individualized and manualized psychological intervention, compared with treatment as usual within youth‐specific early intervention services. The REsearch into COgnitive and behavioural VERsatility (RECOVER) intervention is delivered over a 6‐month period. About 122 young people in the early stages of BD‐I (at least one manic episode in the previous 2 years, with no more than five lifetime treated/untreated manic or hypomanic episodes) will be recruited. The assessments will occur at baseline, 3, 6 (primary endpoint, end of treatment), 9, 12, 15 and 18 months. Results: Recruitment will commence in January 2019 and is anticipated to occur over a 3.5‐year period. Conclusions: To date, there are no evidence‐based psychological therapies tailored to young people with early BD. We will test whether early psychological intervention in the course of BD can reduce the symptomatic, psychological, vocational and social impacts that are seen in entrenched disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antipsychotic medication has been the mainstay of treatment for psychotic illnesses for over 60 years. This has been associated with improvements in positive psychotic symptoms and a reduction in relapse rates. However, there has been little improvement in functional outcomes for people with psychosis. At the same time there is increasing evidence that medications contribute to life shortening metabolic and cardiovascular illnesses. There is also uncertainty as to the role played by antipsychotic medication in brain volume changes. Aim: The primary aim of the study is, in a population of young people with first‐episode psychosis, to compare functional outcomes between an antipsychotic dose reduction strategy with evidence‐based intensive recovery treatment (EBIRT) group (DRS+) and an antipsychotic maintenance treatment with EBIRT group (AMTx+) at 24‐months follow‐up. Methods: Our single‐blind randomized controlled trial, within a specialist early psychosis treatment setting, will test the whether the DRS+ group leads to better vocational and social recovery than, the AMTx+ group over a 2‐year period in 180 remitted first‐episode psychosis patients. Additionally, we will examine the effect of DRS+ vs AMTx+ on physical health, brain volume and cognitive functioning. This study will also determine whether the group receiving DRS+ will be no worse off in terms of psychotic relapses over 2 years follow‐up. Results: This paper presents the protocol, rationale and hypotheses for this study which commenced recruitment in July 2017. Conclusion: This study will provide evidence as to whether an antipsychotic dose‐reduction recovery treatment leads to improved functioning and safer outcomes in first‐episode psychosis patients. In addition, it will be the first‐controlled experiment of the effect of exposure to antipsychotic maintenance treatment on brain volume changes in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Up to half of patients with borderline personality disorder report auditory verbal hallucinations that are phenomenologically indistinguishable from those in schizophrenia, occur early in the course of the disorder, and are enduring, distressing and disabling. In clinical practice, this symptom is widely assumed to be unresponsive to treatment with antipsychotic medication and early intervention is rarely offered. The Verbal Experiences Response in Borderline personality disorder to Aripiprazole TrIal Medication (VERBATIM) study aims to be the first controlled trial to investigate the effectiveness of conventional pharmacotherapy for this symptom in this patient group. Method: VERBATIM is a 12‐week, triple‐blind, single‐centre, parallel groups randomised controlled trial, with a 27‐week follow‐up period. Participants between the ages of 15 and 25 years receive either aripiprazole or placebo daily, commencing at 2 mg and increasing to 10 mg by day 15. Further dose escalations (up to 30 mg) may occur, as clinically indicated. This trial was prospectively registered with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12616001192471 on 30/08/2016. Results: The primary outcome is severity of auditory verbal hallucinations assessed using the Psychotic Symptom Rating Scale. Secondary outcomes include the severity of general psychopathology, borderline personality pathology, social and occupational functioning and change in brain resting state connectivity. The primary endpoint is week 12 and secondary endpoint is week 39. Conclusion: The results will inform treatment decisions for individuals with borderline personality disorder who present with auditory verbal hallucinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To clarify the clinical features preceding the onset of bipolar disorder (BD) has become a public health priority for the prevention of high morbidity and mortality. BD remains frequently under‐ or misdiagnosed, and under‐ or mistreated, often for years. Methods: We assessed the predictive value of precursors and prodromes of BD. We assessed precursors of first‐lifetime manic or hypomanic episodes with/without mixed features in retrospective and prospective studies. The task force evaluated and summarized separately assessments of familial risk, premorbid personality traits, retrospective, and prospective studies. Results: Cyclothymic features, a family history of BD, retrospectively reported attenuated manic symptoms, prospectively identified subthreshold symptoms of hypomania, recurrence of depression, panic anxiety and psychotic features, have been identified as clinical precursors of BD. The prodromal symptoms like [hypo]mania often appears to be long enough to encourage early identification and timely intervention. Conclusions: The predictive value of any risk factor identified remains largely unknown. Prospective controlled studies are urgently needed for prevention and effective treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anti-oncological active carbazole appended dispiroindenoquinoxalinepyrrolothiazoles and dispiroacenaphthylenepyrrolidines were synthesized regioselectively via 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction of azomethine ylide to exocyclic linkage of dipolarophile. The synthesized spiranic compounds are fully characterized by means of spectral, X-ray crystallography and elemental analysis. Computational details of theoretical calculations have been discussed for compound 4 g (p-Cl-phenyl substituted pyrrolothiazole-carbazole system) using DFT (Density Functional Theory) approach at the M06-2X/LANL2DZ level of theory. The cytotoxic effects of the dispiro compounds were examined on cancerous cell lines such as lung cancer (A549) and breast cancer (MCF-7) cell lines. Compound 4 g was found to be the most promising derivative against A549 (20±1.0 μg/ ml) and MCF-7 (21±1.5 μg/ml) cells. Furthermore, the morphological changes and apoptotic induction of the promising candidates have been studied by AO/EB (Acridine Orange/ Ethidium Bromide) and DAPI (4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) staining methods [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: It is now necessary to investigate whether recovery in psychosis is possible without the use of antipsychotic medication. This study will determine (1) whether a first‐episode psychosis (FEP) group receiving intensive psychosocial interventions alone can achieve symptomatic remission and functional recovery; (2) whether prolonging the duration of untreated psychosis (DUP) in a sub‐group according to randomisation will be associated with a poorer outcome and thereby establish whether the relationship between DUP and outcome is causative; and (3) whether neurobiological changes observed in FEP are associated with the psychotic disorder or antipsychotic medication. Baseline characteristics of participants will be presented. Methods: This study is a triple‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled non‐inferiority trial. The primary outcome is the level of functioning measured by the Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale at 6 months. This study is being conducted at the Early Psychosis Prevention and Intervention Centre, Melbourne and includes young people aged 15 to 24 years with a DSM‐IV psychotic disorder, a DUP less than 6 months and not high risk for suicide or harm to others. Strict discontinuation criteria are being applied. Participants are also undergoing three 3‐Tesla‐MRI scans. Results: Ninety participants have been recruited and baseline characteristics are presented. Conclusions: Staged treatment and acceptability guidelines in early psychosis will determine whether antipsychotic medications are indicated in all young people with a FEP and whether antipsychotic medication can be safely delayed. Furthermore, the relative contribution of psychotic illness and antipsychotic medication in terms of structural brain changes will also be elucidated. The findings will inform clinical practice guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The development of the ultra‐high risk (UHR) criteria for psychosis created a new paradigm for the prevention research in psychiatry. Since (1) prevention research faces the challenge of achieving adequate statistical power when focusing on single low‐incidence syndromes and (2) early clinical phenotypes are overlapping and non‐specific, this study broadens the UHR state beyond psychosis as an outcome. The CHARMS (clinical high at‐risk mental state) study aims to prospectively validate a set of trans‐diagnostic criteria to identify help‐seeking young people at risk of developing a range of serious mental illnesses. Methods: This paper describes the methodology of the CHARMS study, which involves applying the CHARMS criteria to a cohort of help‐seeking young people aged 12 to 25 attending youth mental health services in Melbourne. New referrals meeting the CHARMS criteria are allocated to the CHARMS+ group; referrals not meeting CHARMS threshold are allocated to CHARMS‐ group (control group); referrals meeting criteria for a full‐threshold disorder are excluded. Transition status and clinical and functional outcomes are re‐assessed at 6 and 12 months. Conclusions: This study will be the first to introduce and validate clinical criteria to identify a broader at‐risk patient population, which may facilitate young people's access to clinical services and early treatment by reducing the reliance on "caseness" defined according to current diagnostic categories being required for service entry. These criteria may introduce a new, trans‐diagnostic approach for understanding risk factors and pathogenic mechanisms that drive the onset of severe mental illness and the next generation of preventive intervention trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alcoholic liver diseases are classified as one of the major reasons for worldwide morbidity and mortality. Curcuminoids exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities that are beneficial for health, including hepatoprotective effects, but its clinical significance is limited due to poor oral bioavailability. In the present study, a novel formulation of curcumin as curcumin-galactomannosides (CGM) with enhanced oral bioavailability alleviated alcohol-induced liver damage in wistar rats with an increased potency compared to the unformulated natural curcuminoids (CM). Ethanol administration significantly elevated liver toxicity markers, lipid peroxidation and inflammatory markers with a simultaneous reduction in antioxidant defenses. Supplementation of CGM reversed all of the pathological effects of alcohol administration, almost close to the normal level, when compared with CM. Histopathology of liver tissue also confirmed the better protective effect of CGM, indicating the enhancement in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects as a function of bioavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ALn4(MoO4)7 (A = Ba, Sr, Ca, Ln = La, Pr, Nd, Sm) ceramics are prepared by solid state ceramic route and the structural properties have been studied using powder X‐ray diffraction and laser Raman spectroscopy. All the ceramics under study are phase pure except BaLn4(MoO4)7 (Ln = Pr, Nd, Sm). Scanning electron micrographs of the sintered ceramics show closely packed microstructure with phase homogeneity. BaLa4(MoO4)7 ceramic has a maximum density of 4.5 g/cm3 at 710°C together with ԑr = 11.8, Qux f = 39 300 GHz, and τf = −68 ppm/oC. SrLa4(MoO4)7 ceramic exhibited a maximum density of 4.4 g/cm3, ԑr = 11.7, Qux f = 44 200 GHz, and τf = −83 ppm/°C at 740°C whereas CaLa4(MoO4)7 ceramic possess a maximum density of 4.2 g/cm3, ԑr = 11.4, Qux f = 30 200 GHz and τf = −90 ppm/oC at 750°C at microwave frequencies. The chemical compatibility of the BaLa4(MoO4)7, SrLa4(MoO4)7 and CaLa4(MoO4)7 ceramics with silver electrode have been studied using powder X‐ray diffraction of the co‐fired samples and is further examined with energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single phase Ba3A(V2O7)2 (A = Mg, Zn) ceramics were prepared through a conventional solid‐state ceramic route. The structural and microwave dielectric properties of Ba3A(V2O7)2 (A = Mg, Zn) compositions have been investigated. Powder X‐ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopic studies have been carried out to confirm the phase purity and crystal structure of prepared Ba3A(V2O7)2 (A = Mg, Zn) compositions. Scanning electron microscopic images for Ba3A(V2O7)2 (A = Mg, Zn) ceramics exhibit a homogeneous and dense microstructure. The microwave dielectric properties of the samples were studied using Hakki–Coleman post resonator and cavity perturbation methods. Ba3Mg(V2O7)2 ceramic has a dielectric constant (εr) of 10.3, quality factor (Q x f) of 43400 GHz and temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf) of –46.87 ppm/°C at 660 °C for 1 h. Ba3Zn(V2O7)2 shows a dielectric constant of 10.8, quality factor of 46400 GHz and temperature coefficient of resonant frequency of –78.1 ppm/°C at 660 °C for 1 h. Ba3A(V2O7)2 (A = Mg, Zn) ceramics show excellent chemical compatibility with Al metal electrodes. The crystal structure and microwave dielectric properties of two ultra low temperature sinterable vanadate‐based ceramics in the BaO‐AO‐V2O5 (A = Mg, Zn) system have been studied. Both show good microwave dielectric properties and excellent chemical compatibility with Al electrodes; hence they can be used as cost effective materials for ultra low temperature cofired ceramic (ULTCC) applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The photochemical and photophysical properties of the extended conformers of trans- and cis-1-(2-naphthyl)-2-phenylethenes (t- and c-NPEB) are strikingly different than those of their rigid analogues, trans- and cis-3-styrylidenebenz[e] indane (t- and c-BPE). The fluorescence quantum yield and lifetime at 25°C in methylcyclohexane drop from 0.76 and 22.2 ns in t-NPEB to 0.0051 and 0.25 ns in t-BPE, and there are complementary changes in the photoisomerization quantum yields. In both cases, photoisomerization occurs in S2, a stilbenic excited state. The differences in behavior are traced to the diminished S1/S2 energy gap on the alkyl substitution afforded by the five-membered ring in BPE. The effect of viscosity on the torsional relaxation of t-BPE, evaluated in glycerol/ methanol mixtures at 25°C and in 95/5 and 99.9/0.1 glycerol/methanol (% v/v) as a function of T, is well accounted for by the medium-enhanced barrier model. Absorption and fluorescence spectra of t-BPE in pure glycerol reveal aggregate formation. Quenching of t-BPE fluorescence in methylcyclohexane by tri-n-butylamine (TBA) leads to exciplex fluorescence. Comparison with analogous results for t-NPEB suggests that charge transfer involves primarily the naphthalenic S1 state in t-NPEB and the stilbenic S2 state in t-BPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: There is growing support for the role of inflammation and oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD). This has led to the development of novel strategies targeting inflammation in the treatment of depression. Rosuvastatin and aspirin have well‐documented, anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The aim of the Youth Depression Alleviation: Augmentation with an anti‐inflammatory agent (YoDA‐A) study is to determine whether individuals receiving adjunctive anti‐inflammatory agents, aspirin and rosuvastatin experience a reduction in the severity of MDD compared with individuals receiving placebo. Methods: YoDA‐A is a 12‐week triple‐blind, randomized controlled trial funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council, Australia. Participants aged 15–25, with moderate‐to‐severe MDD, are allocated to receive either 10 mg/day rosuvastatin, 100 mg/day aspirin, or placebo, in addition to treatment as usual. Participants are assessed at baseline and at weeks 4, 8, 12 and 26. The primary outcome is change in the Montgomery–Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) from baseline to week 12. Results: The study is planned to be completed in 2017. At date of publication, 85 participants have been recruited. Conclusion: Timely and targeted intervention for youth MDD is crucial. Given the paucity of new agents to treat youth MDD, adjunctive trials are not only pragmatic and ‘real‐world’, but additionally aim to target shortfalls in conventional medications. This study has the potential to first provide two new adjunctive treatment options for youth MDD; aspirin and rosuvastatin. Second, this study will serve as proof of principle of the role of inflammation in MDD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sonerila janakiana, a new tuberous, scapigerous and stoloniferous species of Melastomataceae collected from exposed wet rocks of evergreen and semi evergreen forests in the Nilgiris and Wayanad districts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala states on the Western Ghats in India is described and illustrated. Apart from other characteristics, it is distinguished from all hitherto known species of the genus in India by having stolons and dimorphic leaves. The stolons produced from tubers terminate and develop into new tubers producing new plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isachne edamalayarensis, a new species from southern Western Ghats in Kerala, India, is described and illustrated. This species is similar to Isachne oreades (Domin) Bor but can be distinguished by its large and glabrous leaves, unequal glumes, and shape and size of lower and upper glumes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective Some people with major depressive disorder ( MDD) may be at a pre-onset stage for bipolar disorder ( BD), where early identification or prevention efforts may be feasible. We aimed to identify rates and characteristics predictive of transition to BD in prospective follow-up studies of people with MDD. Methods Using a systematic search strategy, we identified studies with a diagnostic ascertainment of MDD and BD of an adequate standard, and where the minimum length of follow-up was 6 months. We examined the incidence and point prevalence of BD and the pooled odds ratios ( OR) for baseline predictors. Results From 5554 unique publications, 56 were included. Nearly a quarter of adults (22.5%) and adolescents with MDD followed up for a mean length of 12-18 years developed BD, with the greatest risk of transition being in the first 5 years. The meta-analysis identified that transition from MDD to BD was predicted by family history of BD (OR = 2.89, 95% CI: 2.01-4.14, N = 7), earlier age of onset of depression ( g = −0.33, SE = 0.05, N = 6) and presence of psychotic symptoms (OR = 4.76, 95% CI: 1.79-12.66, N = 5). Conclusions Participants with the identified risk factors merit closer observation and may benefit from prevention efforts, especially if outcomes broader than BD are considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium titanate (CaTiO3) filled polypropylene ( PP) composites have been fabricated through compression molding method. The phase purity of the PP/CaTiO3 composites was studied using X-ray diffraction studies. Scanning electron microscopy technique has been employed to study the dispersion of the particulate filler in the PP matrix. The dielectric constant and loss tangent of the composites were measured at X-band frequency region using waveguide cavity perturbation technique. PP/CaTiO3 composite has an effective dielectric constant of 11.74 and loss tangent 0.007 at optimum filler loading. The experimental dielectric constant of filled composites was compared with theoretically predicted dielectric constant values obtained using different modeling approaches. The linear coefficient of thermal expansion of PP/CaTiO3 composites was studied using thermomechanical analyzer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers the authors' view on the article "Is, "early intervention" in bipolar disorder what it claims to be?," by G. S. Malhi and colleagues regarding early intervention for bipolar disorder (BD). Topics include Malhi and colleagues' misunderstanding of clinical staging model as inevitable progression, their failure to discuss risks of antidepressant medication versus withholding medications, and the risks of denying early treatment to prevent neuroprogressive cascade.

cis-1,2-Di(1-methyl-2-naphthyl)ethene, c- 1,1, undergoes photoisomerization in methylcyclohexane, isopentane and diethyl ether/isopentane/ethanol glasses at 77 K. On 313 nm excitation the fluorescence of c- 1,1 is replaced by fluorescence from t- 1,1. Singular value decomposition reveals that the spectral matrices behave as two component systems suggesting conversion of a stable c- 1,1 conformer to a stable t- 1,1 conformer. However, the fluorescence spectra are λexc dependent. Analysis of global spectral matrices shows that c- 1,1 is a mixture of two conformers, each of which gives one of four known t- 1,1 conformers. The λexc dependence of the c- 1,1 fluorescence spectrum is barely discernible. Structure assignments to the resolved fluorescence spectra are based on the principle of least motion and on calculated geometries, energy differences and spectra of the conformers. The relative shift of the c- 1,1 conformer spectra is consistent with the shift of the calculated absorption spectra. The calculated structure of the most stable conformer of c- 1,1 agrees well with the X-ray crystal structure. Due to large deviations of the naphthyl groups from the ethenic plane in the conformers of both c- and t- 1,1 isomers, minimal motion of these bulky substituents accomplishes cis → trans interconversion by rotation about the central bond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eriocaulon vandaanamense (Eriocaulaceae), a new species from a marshy coastal area in the Alappuzha District, Kerala, India, is described and illustrated. The new species is similar to E. truncatum and resembles it in having vertically elongated seed coat cells, but differs mainly in having pale black hoary floral bracts, 3-lobed hoary male sepals, linear-falcate, non-conduplicate hoary female sepals, and small, smooth, pale brown seeds without seed coat appendages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new ultralow-temperature-sinterable BaV2O6 ceramic was prepared through a conventional solid-state ceramic method. Thermogravimetric and differential-scanning-calorimetry analyses were performed to confirm the phase formation of BaV2O6. Phase purity and crystal structure of the ceramic material were studied by using X-ray diffraction analysis and Raman spectroscopic studies. BaV2O6 crystallizes in an orthorhombic unit cell, and the calculated lattice parameters are a = 8.532 Å, b = 12.583 Å, and c = 7.554 Å. BaV2O6 ceramic was well sintered at 550 °C for 1 h and exhibited a dense microstructure with excellent microwave properties, for example, a dielectric constant of 11.2, a Qxf value of 42790 GHz, and a temperature coefficient of resonant frequency of 28.2 ppm/°C. The BaV2O6 ceramic exhibits a linear coefficient of thermal expansion of 10 ppm/°C in the range 30-350 °C. The BaV2O6 ceramic shows good chemical compatibility with Al electrodes, which makes it as a suitable candidate material for ULTCC technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives There are no established tools to identify individuals at risk for developing bipolar disorder. We developed a set of ultra-high-risk criteria for bipolar disorder [bipolar at-risk ( BAR)]. The primary aim of the present study was to determine the predictive validity of the BAR criteria. Methods This was a 12-month prospective study that was conducted at Orygen Youth Health Clinical Program, a public mental health program for young people aged 15-24 years in metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. At intake, BAR screen-positive individuals and a matched group of individuals who did not meet BAR criteria were observed over a period of 12 months. The BAR criteria include general criteria such as being in the peak age range for the onset of the disorder, as well as sub-threshold mania, depression plus cyclothymic features, and depression plus genetic risk. Conversion to first-episode mania/hypomania was defined by the presence of DSM- IV manic symptoms for more than four days, in line with the DSM- IV definition of hypomania/mania. Results A total of 559 help-seeking patients were screened. Of the eligible participants, 59 (10.6%) met BAR criteria. Thirty-five participants were included in the BAR group and 35 matched participants were selected to be in the control group. During the follow-up, five BAR patients out of 35 (14.3%) converted to first-episode hypomania/mania as opposed to none in the non- BAR group [χ2(1) = 5.38, p = 0.020]. Four out of these five converters had a DSM- IV diagnosis of bipolar I or bipolar II disorder. Conclusions These findings support the possibility of identification of persons prior to the onset of mania/hypomania. The proposed criteria need further evaluation in larger, prospective studies with longer follow-up periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultralow-temperature sinterable Ba3 V4 O13 ceramics have been prepared through solid-state ceramic route. Structural properties of the ceramic material are studied using powder X-ray diffraction. Ba3 V4 O13 ceramic has monoclinic structure and the existence of [V4O13]6− polyhedra is confirmed through Laser Raman studies. The sample sintered at 600°C for 1 h shows dense microstructure with microwave dielectric properties of εr = 9.6, Q × f = 56 100 GHz, and τf = −42 ppm/°C. The ceramics under study show good chemical compatibility with aluminum during cofiring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

α-alumina of different particle sizes of 50 nm, 0.4, 3, and 7 μm have been incorporated into the PTFE matrix to prepare flexible composite substrates. A proprietary process comprising of sigma mixing, extrusion, and calendering, followed by hot pressing (SMECH process) has been used to obtain dimensionally stable ceramic-filled PTFE substrates. Variation of the dielectric constant, loss tangent and moisture absorption of filled PTFE composites has been ascertained as a result of filler loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SrO–2CeO2– nTiO2 ceramics with n=4 and 5 have been prepared through conventional solid-state ceramic route. Structural and microstructural characterizations of the sintered ceramics were carried out using X-ray diffraction, laser Raman, and scanning electron microscopic studies. Microwave dielectric properties have been measured using postresonator and resonant cavity techniques. SrO–2CeO2–4TiO2 and SrO–2CeO2–5TiO2 ceramics showed dielectric constants of 71.3 and 71.7, respectively, around 4 GHz together with a relatively high unloaded quality factor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]