bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in Spinal Fusion Strategies in Adult Deformity Surgery
Authors: Steinberger Jeremy , York Philip , Virk Sohrab , Kim Han Jo
Published: February 2020

Background

As the frequency of adult deformity surgery (ADS) continues to increase, our understanding of techniques that enhance fusion must continue to evolve because pseudarthrosis can be a serious and costly event.

Purposes/Questions

We sought to conduct a review of the literature investigating techniques that can enhance outcomes of ADS.

Methods

Two databases were searched for keywords such as “advances in spinal fusion,” “new technology in adult spinal deformity,” “interbody devices for adult spinal deformity,” “adult spinal deformity rods,” and “screw design in adult spinal deformity” to examine recent literature and trends in ADS.

Results

We identified 45 articles for our review. Topics studied include the use of multiple rods, interbody fusion, distal fixation techniques, and bone morphogenetic protein or iliac crest bone graft.

Conclusions

Many recent innovations in treatments to enhance fusion in ADS have been studied, some more controversial than others. Further research into the efficacy of these techniques may increase fusion rates in ADS.
Modeling Coastal Marsh Restoration Benefits in the Northern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Fricano Gail F. , Baumann Matthew S. , Fedeli Katie , Schlemme Claire E. , Carle Melissa Vernon , Landry Mel
Published: February 2020

Extensive salt marsh restoration is expected in the northern Gulf of Mexico over the next several decades, funded in part by settlements from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. Understanding the ecological benefits of restored marshes over time is integral to setting appropriate restoration targets and performance criteria and in determining the restoration area needed to achieve desired restoration goals and offset quantified natural resource injuries. We present a method for quantifying anticipated ecological benefits associated with marsh restoration projects, particularly marsh creation or enhancement through the placement of dredged material, in the northern Gulf of Mexico. Using salt marsh vegetation (percent cover, aboveground biomass, and belowground biomass) and indicator faunal species (periwinkle snails and amphipods) as representative marsh community components, we used resource equivalency analysis (REA) to model projected ecological benefits over time and quantified total net project benefits for a hypothetical marsh creation project in Barataria Bay, Louisiana. Sensitivity analysis of the resulting model suggests that the recovery trajectories for each marsh component were the most important drivers of modeled restoration benefits and that model uncertainty was greatest for marsh fauna, which has limited data availability compared to marsh vegetation and high natural variability. Longer-term monitoring at restored restoration sites and/or targeted monitoring of older restoration projects would reduce variability in the recovery trajectories for the marsh community components examined in this case study and improve the reliability of the REA model for projecting benefits associated with salt marsh restoration.
Analyse der Interaktionen im direkten Block als vorbereitende und abschließende Angriffshandlung in zufällig ausgewählten Hauptrundenspielen der easyCredit Basketball Bundesliga 2017/18
Authors: Remmert Hubert , Lysien Mike
Published: February 2020

Der direkte Block (engl. „ball screen“, meist als Pick & Roll mit Abrollen des Blockstellers zum Korb ausgeführt) besitzt seit vielen Jahren einen hohen Stellenwert im Leistungsbasketball und wird in Positions- und Schnellangriffen gegen Mann-Mann- sowie Ball-Raum-Verteidigungsvarianten eingesetzt. Die vorliegende Studie analysiert die Häufigkeiten und Erfolgsquoten direkter Blocks zur Vorbereitung finaler Abschlusshandlungen und als direkte Abschlusshandlung anhand einer Zufallsstichprobe der Hauptrundenspiele der easyCredit Basketball Bundesliga 2017/18. Insgesamt 2555 Angriffssequenzen wurden mit einem an Remmert angelehnten Kategoriensystem mit Hilfe der Spielanalysesoftware utilius vs® detailliert beschrieben und quantitativ ausgewertet. Mit 19,9 % der Abschlusshandlungen und 26,4 % der vorbereitenden Abschlusshandlungen ist der quantitative Anteil der Blocks im Vergleich zu aktuellen internationalen Studien (siehe „Problemstellung“) niedrig. Die Erfolgsquote liegt jedoch mit durchschnittlich 1,22 Punkten pro Angriffsversuch (PPA) höher als die 1,16 PPA der 1‑gegen-1-Abschlüsse. 86,7 % der direkten Blocks zum Angriffsabschluss werden als aktive Blocks gestellt und sind mit 1,25 PPA überdurchschnittlich erfolgreich. Das Über-den-Block-Gehen und Switch sind die häufigsten Verteidigungsvarianten gegen direkte Blocks, erstere ist mit nur 1,08 zugelassenen PPA deutlich erfolgreicher. Die häufigste offensive Lösung im direkten Block ist der Wurf des Ballbesitzers, der mit 1,13 PPA jedoch nur mäßig lukrativ ist. Durchbruch und Abrollen sind mit 1,28 und 1,31 PPA effektiver. Gewinnerteams erzielen durchschnittlich 1,33 PPA aus direkten Blocks zum Angriffsabschluss, Verliererteams nur 1,10 PPA. Sie sind damit deutlich effektiver und verteidigen erfolgreicher.
Discovering key interactions. How student interactions relate to progress in mathematical generalization
Authors: Varhol Astrid , Drageset Ove Gunnar , Hansen Monica Nymoen
Published: February 2020

This article presents a study of 8th grade students working in groups to solve a task about generalizing patterns. The study aimed to openly explore how progress in mathematical thinking might relate to the discourse. To do this, we first studied both separately. The progress in mathematical thinking was studied by inspecting how the groups progressed through different levels of generalization. The discourse was studied by characterizing each student interaction. When combining these, we realized that some specific types of interactions were related to students progressing to a higher level of generalization. We call these key interactions, and they were mainly of the types of advocating, locating, and reformulating. These seem clearly important for identifying evidence of progress during the discourses, but might also be helpful for understanding how specific types of interactions relates to sharing and growing mathematical thinking.
The effects of truncating the angle count sampling method on the Austrian National Forest Inventory
Authors: Berger Ambros , Gschwantner Thomas , Schadauer Klemens
Published: February 2020

Key message

Truncating the angle count sampling plots leads to a higher stock estimate because fewer trees are missed. It also causes a higher uncertainty of the estimates.

Context

The Austrian National Forest Inventory changed its plot design to angle count sampling plots that are limited to circles of 300 m2. A fixed plot size is beneficial for multistage inventory systems.

Aims

This study aims to quantify the ensuing effects on the national forest inventory on the plot and the national level regarding stock estimates and their uncertainty along with effects on as well as of upper diameter models.

Methods

Fully surveyed large-scale plots with simulated angle count samples were used to gauge the increase of variability. The full NFI 2007/09 data set was employed to simulate truncations at different distances as well as to parameterise eight alternatives for upper diameter models and to analyse the effects on the stock estimates.

Results

There is an increase in the stock estimate because the probability of missing sample trees is reduced. The change in upper diameter models had little effect.

Conclusion

The truncation removes a source of bias, facilitates field work, and is a favourable way forward.
Dearomatized Isoprenylated Acylphloroglucinol Derivatives with Potential Antitumor Activities from Hypericum henryi
Authors: Ye Yan-Song , Wu Man , Jiang Na-Na , Lao Yuan-Zhi , Fu Wen-Wei , Liu Xia , Yang Xing-Wei , Zhang Juan , Xu Hong-Xi , Xu Gang
Published: February 2020

A series of dearomatized isoprenylated acylphloroglucinols derivatives, hyperhenols A–E (1–5), as well as seven known analogues (6–12), were characterized from Hypericum henryi. Their structures were determined by combination of NMR, ECD spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis. Compounds 1 and 6–8 were tested to exhibit potential antitumor properties, of which 6 and 7 inhibited cell growth through inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. In addition, these compounds could induce autophagy and PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy in cancer cell lines, as well as suppress lung cancer A549 cells metastasis in vitro.
Efficacy of a “Checklist” Intervention Bundle on the Clinical Outcome of Patients with Candida Bloodstream Infections: A Quasi-Experimental Pre-Post Study
Authors:   for the COMIC Study Group, Vena Antonio , Bouza Emilio , Corisco Rafael , Machado Marina , Valerio Maricela , Sánchez Carlos , Muñoz Patricia
Published: February 2020

Introduction

To evaluate the clinical impact of a comprehensive care bundle for the management of candidemia.

Methods

A quasi-experimental pre-post study was implemented. During the pre-intervention period (May 2014–September 2015), a non-mandatory antifungal stewardship program (ASP) was implemented, and patients with candidemia were visited by an infectious disease specialist who provided diagnostic and therapeutic advice according to standard of care as soon as possible. During the post-intervention period (October 2015–May 2017), patients were managed according to a candidemia care bundle with clear and structured recommendations written in their medical history.

Results

Overall, 109 patients were included, 56 in the pre-intervention and 53 in the post-intervention period. Overall, compliance with the Candida bundle significantly improved between the pre- [27/56 (48.2%)] and post-intervention [43/53 (81.1%); p = 0.01] period. Individual bundle components that significantly improved in the post-intervention period were early adequate antifungal therapy [47/56 (83.9%) vs. 51/53 (96.2%), p = 0.05], early adequate source control of the infection [37/56 (82.2%) vs. 41/53 (97.6%), p = 0.03] and appropriate duration of therapy [27/56 (48.2%) vs. 43/53 (81.1%), p = 0.01]. Adherence to follow-up blood cultures, ophthalmologic examination and echocardiography improved in the post-intervention period, but the difference was not statistically significant. Multivariate analysis revealed that being managed according to candidemia bundle had a favorable impact on 14-day mortality (HR 0.08, 95% CI 0.01–0.45, p = 0.02) and 30-day mortality (HR 0.40, 95% CI 0.18–0.89, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

A simple bundle focused on increasing adherence to a few evidence-based interventions contributed to a significant reduction in 14- and 30-day mortality in patients with candidemia.
Orofacial granulomatosis: a questionnaire study among Norwegian dental clinicians
Authors: Skaare A. B. , Hovden E. S. , Herlofson B. B. , Søland T. M.
Published: February 2020

Aims

To evaluate awareness on orofacial granulomatosis (OFG) and oral Crohn disease (oral CD) among Norwegian dental clinicians.

Methods

A precoded questionnaire (QuestBack) was sent electronically to dentists and dental hygienists treating children and adolescents in the public dental service (PDS) in Norway. Data on the clinicians’ knowledge of OFG and oral CD related to working experience were analysed by Chi square tests and bivariate logistic regression analyses.

Results

A total of 1097 clinicians were invited to participate, 778 dentists and 319 dental hygienists; 48.2% returned the completed form. Fifty-four percent of the participants had ≥ 10 year experience of clinical practice. Two-thirds (68.4%) of the dentists and all but one of the dental hygienists graduated in Norway. Approximately half of the respondents were aware of OFG (41.2%) and oral CD (57.8%). One-quarter (24.6%) reported that they most likely had seen a patient with OFG and 20.6% with oral CD. Recently graduated dentists (≤ 10 years ago) were more aware of OFG and oral CD than those who graduated > 10 years ago (p ≤ 0.001). Regarding dental hygienists, this difference was observed for OFG only (p < 0.05). Country of education did not affect the clinicians’ reported knowledge. Approximately 90% would refer a patient suspected of having OFG or oral CD either to a dental specialist or to a physician.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of clinicians observing OFG and oral CD in this study may indicate that OFG and/or oral CD are under-reported and that OFG in particular is more common than hitherto believed. The high frequency of awareness was promising for the benefit of the patients.
Neuroimaging as a Tool for Individualized Treatment Choice in Depression: the Past, the Present and the Future
Authors: Godlewska Beata R.
Published: February 2020

Purpose of Review

This paper aims to review the findings on neuroimaging as a tool for facilitating individualized treatment choice in depression.

Recent Findings

Neuroimaging has allowed the exploration of neural candidates for response biomarkers. In less than two decades, the field has expanded from small single drug studies to large multisite initiatives testing multiple interventions; from simple analytical methods to employing artificial intelligence, with an aim of establishing models based on a variety of data, such as neuroimaging, biological, psychological and clinical measures.

Neural biomarkers of response may play an important role in treatment response prediction. It seems likely that they will need to be considered together with other types of data in complex models in order to achieve the high accuracy and generalizability of results necessary for clinical use.
Fucoidan-Based Theranostic Nanogel for Enhancing Imaging and Photodynamic Therapy of Cancer
Authors: Cho Mi Hyeon , Li Yan , Lo Pui-Chi , Lee Hyeri , Choi Yongdoo
Published: February 2020

In this study, a fucoidan-based theranostic nanogel (CFN-gel) consisting of a fucoidan backbone, redox-responsive cleavable linker and photosensitizer is developed to achieve activatable near-infrared fluorescence imaging of tumor sites and an enhanced photodynamic therapy (PDT) to induce the complete death of cancer cells. A CFN-gel has nanomolar affinity for P-selectin, which is overexpressed on the surface of tumor neovascular endothelial cells as well as many other cancer cells. Therefore, a CFN-gel can enhance tumor accumulation through P-selectin targeting and the enhanced permeation and retention effect. Moreover, a CFN-gel is non-fluorescent and non-phototoxic upon its systemic administration due to the aggregation-induced self-quenching in its fluorescence and singlet oxygen generation. After internalization into cancer cells and tumor neovascular endothelial cells, its photoactivity is recovered in response to the intracellular redox potential, thereby enabling selective near-infrared fluorescence imaging and an enhanced PDT of tumors. Since a CFN-gel also shows nanomolar affinity for the vascular endothelial growth factor, it also provides a significant anti-tumor effect in the absence of light treatment in vivo. Our study indicates that a fucoidan-based theranostic nanogel is a new theranostic material for imaging and treating cancer with high efficacy and specificity.
GIM and BIM
Authors: Herle Stefan , Becker Ralf , Wollenberg Raymond , Blankenbach Jörg
Published: February 2020

Geospatial information modelling (GIM) is used for decades to document phenomena of the real world. Visualizing and analysing GIM data are usually accomplished by geographic information system tools. The construction industry, on the other hand, uses usually computer-aided design (CAD) tools to plan buildings. With the introduction of building information modelling (BIM), modelling in CAD was enhanced to the entire life cycle of constructions. BIM and GIM are not independent of each other, e.g. BIM uses geospatial data for planning purposes. However, integrating both is challenging since the modelling methods differ. The paper describes approaches to establish interoperability between models of both domains. A literature review reveals the problems and challenges different researchers tackled to achieve interoperability.
Confined jets in co-flow: effect of the flow rate ratio and lateral position of a return cannula on the flow dynamics
Authors: Lemétayer Julien , Broman Lars Mikael , Prahl Wittberg Lisa
Published: February 2020

Co-axial tubes have been used to produce a co-flowing confined jet similar to that found in an Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation return cannula flow configuration. Particle Image Velocimetry was used to investigate the flow rate ratio between jet and co-flow as well as changes in flow characteristics due to cannula position. The flow was found to be dominated by three main structures: lateral flow entrainment, shear layer induced vortices and backflow along the wall. An increase in cannula flow rate amplified entrainment and recirculation, resulting in a decrease in length required to reach a fully developed flow. Changing cannula position relative the outer cylinder induced a significant reduction in recirculation zone as well as vortex formation on the side to which the cannula was tilted towards, whereas on the other side, the recirculating flow region was enhanced. Proper Orthogonal Decomposition demonstrated that the dominating structure found in the flow is the backflow, composing of several structures having different oscillation frequencies. The significance of the observed and measured flow structures is in enhancing mixing.
Equitable Work-integrated-Learning: Using Practical Simulations in University Marketing Subjects
Authors: Chad Paul
Published: February 2020

Work-integrated-learning (WIL) activities assist development of student skills but the often used placement-based WIL model can be problematic, particularly due to equity issues. The purpose of this paper is to investigate use of a more equitable form of WIL - namely non-placement WIL practical simulations. Case study analysed design and delivery of a WIL practical simulation within an under-graduate marketing subject. Teacher reflection, observation of students, plus survey of students generated extensive data. The student survey, containing predominantly open-ended questions, was thematically analysed. Development of relevant key student skills valued by employers was identified in the activity. Teacher reflection coupled with student feedback generated recommendations for further improving the activity. Findings suggest WIL practical simulations eliminate equity issues associated with placement-based WIL models. WIL is under-utilised and under-researched within marketing subjects. The study contributes by showing how specifically designed WIL practical simulation can be delivered equitably to benefit numerous stakeholders.
Bridges and Bonds: The Role of British Merchant Bank Intermediaries in Latin American Trade and Finance Networks, 1825–1850
Authors: BUCHNEA EMILY
Published: February 2020

In the first half of the nineteenth century, transatlantic trade and finance networks were complex webs of transactions often consisting of lengthy chains of connections linking distant firms to distant markets. As a number of scholars have shown, merchant bankers of the nineteenth century were at the center of many of these networks, acting as an interconnected and often impenetrable group that dictated the flow of capital and investment across many borders. Most recently, scholars such as Manuel Llorca-Jaña, Manuel López-Morell, and Juliette Levy (to name a few) have produced a number of especially significant publications on the role of financial intermediaries in Latin America. Llorca-Jaña’s and López-Morrell’s work has been essential for illuminating the role of London bankers Huth & Co. and Rothschilds (respectively) in creating a global network that included Latin American markets and trades, while Levy’s work has highlighted the role of special financial players in inland markets, namely in the Yucatan. This paper aims to build on this previous work through an analysis of crucial network actors in Anglo-American merchant bank networks in the first half of the nineteenth century. To conduct a varied and general analysis, this paper will draw on the correspondence records of the Baring Bros. and N. M. Rothschild, two of the most well-known and profitable London merchant banks of the period. Through this material, this study will present an analysis of British merchant bank connectivity and the role of intermediaries in connecting merchant banks to distant markets and clients, such as the mining districts of interior Mexico and the sugar merchants of Cuba.
Nonlinear fractional Laplacian problems with nonlocal ‘gradient terms’
Authors: Abdellaoui Boumediene , Fernández Antonio J.
Published: February 2020

Let$\Omega \subset \mathbb{R}^{N} $, N ≽ 2, be a smooth bounded domain. For s ∈ (1/2, 1), we consider a problem of the form
$$\left\{\begin{array}{@{}ll} (-\Delta)^s u = \mu(x)\, \mathbb{D}_s^{2}(u) + \lambda f(x), & {\rm in}\,\Omega, \\ u= 0, & {\rm in}\,\mathbb{R}^{N} \setminus \Omega,\end{array}\right.$$
where λ > 0 is a real parameter, f belongs to a suitable Lebesgue space, $\mu \in L^{\infty}$ and $\mathbb {D}_s^2$ is a nonlocal ‘gradient square’ term given by
$$\mathbb{D}_s^2 (u) = \frac{a_{N,s}}{2} \int_{\mathbb{R}^{N}} \frac{|u(x)-u(y)|^2}{|x-y|^{N+2s}}\,{\rm d}y.$$
Depending on the real parameter λ > 0, we derive existence and non-existence results. The proof of our existence result relies on sharp Calderón–Zygmund type regularity results for the fractional Poisson equation with low integrability data. We also obtain existence results for related problems involving different nonlocal diffusion terms.
Nationalization and Regionalization in the Canadian Party System, 1867–2015
Authors: Pruysers Scott , Sayers Anthony , Czarnecki Lucas
Published: February 2020

The regionalization of the Canadian party system is a topic that has occupied Canadian scholars for decades. While there have undoubtedly been periods of significant regionalization (for example, the 1990s) and while these periods have been well documented, there has been very little systematic study of regionalization/nationalization in the Canadian party system. We address this gap by exploring nationalization of the Canadian party system from 1867 to 2015. To do so, we apply two measures. First, we consider how nationalized party competition is by exploring the extent to which parties compete in districts across the entire country. Second, we compliment this approach by applying the Gini coefficient to vote shares, revealing the extent to which Canadian parties have (un)even electoral support from province to province. In doing so, we explore not only the system as a whole but individual parties as well.
Following the Right: Left and Right Parties’ Influence over Multiculturalism
Authors: Westlake Daniel
Published: February 2020

Debates over multiculturalism are increasingly partisan. The rise of the far right is forcing centre-right parties into difficult decisions over how to hold on to nationalist voters while appealing to moderates. Left parties face similar dilemmas when balancing the pressures of pro-multicultural voters against those opposed to immigration. What do these debates mean for the future of multiculturalism? Using a new, annualized version of the Multiculturalism Policy Index, this article argues that partisan consensus is important to the development of multiculturalism. It demonstrates that support from centre-right parties plays a key role in the adoption of multiculturalism policies.
Application of a fast and cost-effective ‘three-in-one’ MMR ELISA as a tool for surveying anti-MMR humoral immunity: the Hungarian experience
Authors: Böröcz K. , Csizmadia Z. , Markovics Á. , Farkas N. , Najbauer J. , Berki T. , Németh P.
Published: February 2020

In Hungary, between February 2017 and July 2019, 70 confirmed measles cases were reported, raising questions about the adequacy of population-level immunity. Although the assumed vaccination coverage is ≥99%, in a recent study, we detected potential gaps in the anti-measles humoral immunity. In Hungary, according to a decree by the Ministry of Public Welfare, beginning from 2021, the healthcare provider should conduct a serosurvey of anti-measles protection levels of healthcare professionals. To facilitate the compliance with this requirement, we developed a quick ‘three-in-one’ or ‘triple’ MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) indirect ELISA (IgG); an assay format that is currently not available commercially. High throughput applicability of the ‘three-in-one’ ELISA was verified using 1736 sera from routine laboratory residual samples, using an automated platform (Siemens BEP 2000 Advance). Assay verification was performed by comparing the full antigen repertoire-based ‘target’ assay with in-house ‘control’ assays using recombinant viral antigen coatings, and by validated commercially available kits. Indirect immunofluorescence was used as an independent reference method. Data were analysed using OriginLab, IBM SPSS, RStudio and MedCalc. In case of measles, we combined our current results with previously published data (Ntotal measles = 3523). Evaluation of anti-mumps and anti-rubella humoral antibody levels was based on the measurement of 1736 samples. The lowest anti-measles seropositivity (79.3%) was detected in sera of individuals vaccinated between 1978 and 1987. Considering the antigen-specific seropositivity ratios of all samples measured, anti-measles, -mumps and -rubella IgG antibody titres were adequate in 89.84%, 91.82% and 92.28%, respectively. Based on the virus-specific herd immunity threshold (HIT) values (HITMeasles = 92–95%, HITMumps = 75–86%, HITRubella = 83–86), it can be stated that regarding anti-measles immunity, certain age clusters of the population may have inadequate levels of humoral immunity. Despite the potential gaps in herd immunity, the use of MMR vaccine remains an effective and low-cost approach for the prevention of measles, mumps and rubella infections.
Comparison of routine field epidemiology and whole genome sequencing to identify tuberculosis transmission in a remote setting
Authors: Guthrie J. L. , Strudwick L. , Roberts B. , Allen M. , McFadzen J. , Roth D. , Jorgensen D. , Rodrigues M. , Tang P. , Hanley B. , Johnston J. , Cook V. J. , Gardy J.L.
Published: February 2020

Yukon Territory (YT) is a remote region in northern Canada with ongoing spread of tuberculosis (TB). To explore the utility of whole genome sequencing (WGS) for TB surveillance and monitoring in a setting with detailed contact tracing and interview data, we used a mixed-methods approach. Our analysis included all culture-confirmed cases in YT (2005–2014) and incorporated data from 24-locus Mycobacterial Interspersed Repetitive Units-Variable Number of Tandem Repeats (MIRU-VNTR) genotyping, WGS and contact tracing. We compared field-based (contact investigation (CI) data + MIRU-VNTR) and genomic-based (WGS + MIRU-VNTR + basic case data) investigations to identify the most likely source of each person's TB and assessed the knowledge, attitudes and practices of programme personnel around genotyping and genomics using online, multiple-choice surveys (n= 4) and an in-person group interview (n= 5). Field- and genomics-based approaches agreed for 26 of 32 (81%) cases on likely location of TB acquisition. There was less agreement in the identification of specific source cases (13/22 or 59% of cases). Single-locus MIRU-VNTR variants and limited genetic diversity complicated the analysis. Qualitative data indicated that participants viewed genomic epidemiology as a useful tool to streamline investigations, particularly in differentiating latent TB reactivation from the recent transmission. Based on this, genomic data could be used to enhance CIs, focus resources, target interventions and aid in TB programme evaluation.
“Tough Love”: The Political Theology of Civil Disobedience
Authors: Livingston Alexander
Published: February 2020

Love is a key concept in the theory and history of civil disobedience yet it has been purposefully neglected in recent debates in political theory. Through an examination of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s paradoxical notion of “aggressive love,” I offer a critical interpretation of love as a key concept in a vernacular black political theology, and the consequences of love’s displacement by law in liberal theories of civil disobedience. The first section locates the origins of aggressive love in an earlier generation of black theologians who looked to India’s anticolonial struggle to reimagine the dignity of the oppressed as “creative survival.” The second contextualizes King’s early sermons on moral injury and self-respect within this tradition to reinterpretStride toward Freedom’s account of the dignity-enhancing effects of nonviolent resistance as the triumph of love over fear. The third considers the implications of these arguments for conceptualizing the moral psychology of the white citizen and its consequences for contemporary debates over the ideological uses of Civil Rights history. The call to respond to oppression with aggressive love illustrates the paradoxical character of civil disobedience obscured by legal accounts as well as by criticisms of the very idea of “civil” disobedience. This is the paradox of affirming civility while enacting disobedience in order to bind political confrontation with political pedagogy.
The Guangzhou Twin Eye Study: 2019 Update
Authors: Ding Xiaohu , Wang Wei , Scheetz Jane , He Mingguang
Published: February 2020

The primary aim of the Guangzhou Twin Eye Study (GTES) is to explore the impact that genes and environmental inﬂuences have on common eye diseases. Since 2006, approximately 1300 pairs of twins, aged 7–15 years, were enrolled at baseline. Progressive phenotypes, such as cycloplegic refraction, axial length, height and weight, have been collected annually. Nonprogressive phenotypes such as parental refraction, corneal thickness, fundus photo, intraocular pressure and DNA were collected once at baseline. We are collaborating with fellow international twin researchers and psychologists to further explore links with general medical conditions. In this article, we review the history, major findings and future research directions for the GTES.
Persistence and Plasticity in Conifer Water‐Use Strategies
Authors: Berkelhammer M. , Still C. J. , Ritter F. , Winnick M. , Anderson L. , Carroll R. , Carbone M. , Williams K. H.
Published: February 2020

The selective use of seasonal precipitation by vegetation is critical to understanding the residence time and flow path of water in watersheds, yet there are limited datasets to test how climate alters these dynamics. Here, we use measurements of the seasonal cycle of tree ring
O for two widespread conifer species in the Rocky Mountains of North America to provide a multi‐decadal depiction of the seasonal origins of forest water use. The results show that while the conifer tree stands had a dominant preference for use of snowmelt, there were multi‐annual periods over the last four decades when use of summer precipitation was preferential. Utilization of summer rain emerged during years with increased snowfall and tree growth, suggesting that summer rain enhanced the transpiration stream only during the periods of highest water use. We hypothesize this could be explained through shallowing of the root profile during wetter periods and/or through the influence of changing water table depths on the residence time of summer precipitation in the root zone. We suggest the tree ring proxy approach used here could be applied in other watersheds to provide critical insight into the temporal dynamics of plant water use that could not be inferred from short measurement campaigns. These data on the seasonal origins of forest water are critical for understanding forest vulnerability to drought, the processes that affect precipitation pathways and residence time in watersheds and the interpretation of tree ring proxy data.
Contrasting Centennial‐Scale Climate Variability in High Mountain Asia Revealed by a Tree‐Ring Oxygen Isotope Record From Lahaul‐Spiti
Authors: Managave Shreyas , Shimla P. , Yadav Ram R. , Ramesh R. , Balakrishnan S.
Published: February 2020

Glacier response analyses in High Mountain Asia have revealed that the glaciers from the Karakoram region were in balance or thickening while most from the other regions were thinning, the “Karakoram anomaly.” It is, however, not clear whether this contrasting glacier response in High Mountain Asia is the result of regionally varying climate trends. Here, we give evidence for regionally varying climate trends by presenting a contrasting centennial‐scale variations of oxygen isotope composition (δ18O) of juniper trees from the Indian Himalayan region (present study) and Karakoram. The persistence of contrasting δ18O trends in the two regions over the past millennium indicates that regionally contrasting climate trends are a natural phenomenon. Regionally distinct hydroclimatic trends revealed here can explain the anomalous glacier mass balance trends in the Karakoram region and hence the “Karakoram anomaly.”
Convective Bursts With Gravity Waves in Tropical Cyclones: Case Study With the Himawari‐8 Satellite and Idealized Numerical Study
Authors: Horinouchi Takeshi , Shimada Udai , Wada Akiyoshi
Published: February 2020

Convective bursts occur frequently in tropical cyclones and help their intensification by diabatic heating, but their quantitative importance has not been established. By using the high‐frequency observation of infrared brightness temperature with Himawari‐8, a latest‐generation geostationary meteorological satellite, convective bursts in Typhoon Lan (2017) were studied. Aided with a series of numerical simulations, it was revealed that the anvil edges of many bursts are associated with finite‐amplitude gravity waves consistent with internal bores, creating warm anomalies by subsidence ahead of the edges. As the edges spread, they are thinned, and their propagation speeds are often decreased. In many such instances, gravity waves, now linear, are separated from the edges to propagate away, spreading convective heating. It is proposed that by quantifying these processes with geostationary satellites, diabatic heating by convective bursts can be estimated to diagnose their impacts on tropical‐cyclone intensification.
Polar Amplification Due to Enhanced Heat Flux Across the Halocline
Authors: Beer E. , Eisenman I. , Wagner T. J. W.
Published: February 2020

Polar amplification is a widely discussed phenomenon, and a range of mechanisms have been proposed to contribute to it, many of which involve atmospheric and surface processes. However, substantial questions remain regarding the role of ocean heat transport. Previous studies have found that ocean heat transport into the Arctic increases under global warming, but the reasons behind this remain unresolved. Here, we investigate changes in oceanic heat fluxes and associated impacts on polar amplification using an idealized ocean‐sea ice‐climate model of the Northern Hemisphere. We show that beneath the sea ice, vertical temperature gradients across the halocline increase as the ocean warms, since the surface mixed layer temperatures in ice‐covered regions are fixed near the freezing point. These enhanced vertical temperature gradients drive enhanced horizontal heat transport into the polar region and can contribute substantially to polar amplification.
Frictional Strengths of Subduction Thrust Rocks in the Region of Shallow Slow Earthquakes
Authors: Phillips Noah John , Belzer Ben , French Melodie E. , Rowe Christie D. , Ujiie Kohtaro
Published: February 2020

Earthquakes are expected to nucleate within velocity‐weakening materials; however, at the updip limit of the subduction seismogenic zone, the principal lithologies exhibit velocity‐strengthening behavior. At an exhumed analogue for present‐day subduction at Nankai (the Mugi Mélange, Japan) two examples of paleoseismic features occur within altered basalts, suggesting that they may be velocity‐weakening. We shear altered basalt and shale matrix from the mélange in the triaxial saw cut configuration at in situ conditions of deformation (Pc = 120 MPa, T = 150 °C) for two pore fluid factors (λ = 0.36, 0.7). The shale matrix exhibits a coefficient of friction between 0.4 and 0.5, and velocity‐strengthening behavior. Altered basalt exhibits Byerlee friction and velocity‐weakening behavior. In most experiments deformation was partitioned into Riedel shears, which have a lower percentage of clasts, clast size distributions with higher fractal dimensions, and shape factors indicating rounder clasts compared to the matrix between Riedel shears. We hypothesize that earthquakes preferentially nucleate within altered basalt at the updip limit of the seismogenic zone. More complex forms of deformation (e.g., shallow very low frequency earthquakes) may occur by mixing velocity‐weakening altered basalt into the velocity‐strengthening shale matrix. In subduction zones where the matrix is composed of shale, this complex behavior is limited to shallow depths (T < ~250 °C), above the updip transition to velocity‐weakening behavior for the matrix. Altered basalt is a ubiquitous subducting material, and future studies on its behavior through a range of subduction zone conditions are required for a full understanding of the mechanical behavior of subduction zones.
Enhanced Mid‐depth Southward Transport in the Northeast Atlantic at the Last Glacial Maximum Despite a Weaker AMOC
Authors: Menviel L. C. , Spence P. , Skinner L. C. , Tachikawa K. , Friedrich T. , Missiaen L. , Yu J.
Published: February 2020

While previous studies consistently suggest that North Atlantic Deep Water (NADW) was shallower at the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) than at pre‐industrial, its strength is still controversial. Here, using a series of LGM experiments, we show that proxy records are consistent with a shallower and
50% weaker NADW, associated with a
3° equatorward shift of the sea ice edge and convection sites in the Norwegian Sea. A shoaling and weakening of NADW further allow penetration of Antarctic Bottom Water in the North Atlantic, despite Antarctic Bottom Water transport being reduced by
40%. While the Deep Western Boundary Current in the northwest Atlantic weakens with NADW, the mid‐depth southward flow on the east side of the north Mid‐Atlantic Ridge strengthens, consistent with paleorecords. This northeast Atlantic intensification is due to a change in density gradients: a weaker AMOC reduces the transport of equatorial waters to the northeast Atlantic, thus weakening the North Atlantic zonal density gradient. The resultant globally weaker oceanic circulation at the LGM would have contributed to an increase in oceanic carbon content and thus a decrease in atmospheric CO
concentration.
Inhibition of the deubiquitinase USP10 induces degradation of SYK
Authors: Yang Jing , Meng Chengcheng , Weisberg Ellen , Case Abigail , Lamberto Ilaria , Magin Robert S. , Adamia Sophia , Wang Jinhua , Gray Nathanael , Liu Suiyang , Stone Richard , Sattler Martin , Buhrlage Sara , Griffin James D.
Published: February 2020

Background

There is growing evidence that spleen tyrosine kinase (SYK) is critical for acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) transformation and maintenance of the leukemic clone in AML patients. It has also been found to be over-expressed in AML patients, with activating mutations in foetal liver tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3), particularly those with internal tandem duplications (FLT3-ITD), where it transactivates FLT3-ITD and confers resistance to treatment with FLT3 tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs).

Methods

We have previously described a pharmacological approach to treating FLT3-ITD-positive AML that relies on proteasome-mediated FLT3 degradation via inhibition of USP10, the deubiquitinating enzyme (DUB) responsible for cleaving ubiquitin from FLT3.

Results

Here, we show that USP10 is also a major DUB required for stabilisation of SYK. We further demonstrate that degradation of SYK can be induced by USP10-targeting inhibitors. USP10 inhibition leads to death of cells driven by active SYK or oncogenic FLT3 and potentiates the anti-leukemic effects of FLT3 inhibition in these cells.

Conclusions

We suggest that USP10 inhibition is a novel approach to inhibiting SYK and impeding its role in the pathology of AML, including oncogenic FLT3-positive AML. Also, given the significant transforming role SYK in other tumours, targeting USP10 may have broader applications in cancer.
Diagnostic accuracy of circulating-free DNA for the determination of MYCN amplification status in advanced-stage neuroblastoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Trigg Ricky M. , Turner Suzanne D. , Shaw Jacqueline A. , Jahangiri Leila
Published: February 2020

Background

MYCN amplification (MNA) is the strongest indicator of poor prognosis in neuroblastoma (NB). This meta-analysis aims to determine the diagnostic accuracy of MNA analysis in circulating-free DNA (cfDNA) from advanced-stage NB patients.

Methods

A systematic review of electronic databases was conducted to identify studies exploring the detection of MNA in plasma/serum cfDNA from NB patients at diagnosis using PCR methodology. Pooled estimates for sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) were calculated by conducting a bivariate/HSROC random-effects meta-analysis.

Results

Seven studies, with a total of 529 advanced-stage patients, were eligible. The pooled sensitivity of cfDNA-based MNA analysis was 0.908 (95% CI, 0.818–0.956), the pooled specificity was 0.976 (0.940–0.991) and the DOR was 410.0 (−103.6 to 923.7). Sub-grouped by INSS stage, the sensitivity for stage 3 and 4 patients was 0.832 (0.677–0.921) and 0.930 (0.834–0.972), respectively. The specificity was 0.999 (0.109–1.000) and 0.974 (0.937–0.990), respectively, and the DOR was 7855.2 (−66267.0 to 81977.4) and 508.7 (−85.8 to 1103.2), respectively.

Conclusions

MNA analysis in cfDNA using PCR methodology represents a non-invasive approach to rapidly and accurately determine MNA status in patients with advanced-stage NB. Standardised methodology must be developed before this diagnostic test can enter the clinic.
Novel CUL7 biallelic mutations alter the skeletal phenotype of 3M syndrome
Authors: Takizaki Nao , Tsurusaki Yoshinori , Katsumata Kaoru , Enomoto Yumi , Murakami Hiroaki , Muroya Koji , Ishikawa Hiroshi , Aida Noriko , Nishimura Gen , Kurosawa Kenji
Published: February 2020

3M syndrome is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by severe growth retardation, distinct facial features, and skeletal changes, including long slender tubular bones and tall vertebral bodies. We report a Japanese patient with 3M syndrome caused by the biallelic novel variants c.1705_1708del and c.1989_1999del of CUL7. Skeletal features were consistent with 3M syndrome in the early neonatal period but became less obvious by 2 years of age.
Author Correction: Prefrontal cortical ChAT-VIP interneurons provide local excitation by cholinergic synaptic transmission and control attention
Authors: Obermayer Joshua , Luchicchi Antonio , Heistek Tim S. , de Kloet Sybren F. , Terra Huub , Bruinsma Bastiaan , Mnie-Filali Ouissame , Kortleven Christian , Galakhova Anna A. , Khalil Ayoub J. , Kroon Tim , Jonker Allert J. , de Haan Roel , van de Berg Wilma D. J. , Goriounova Natalia A. , de Kock Christiaan P. J. , Pattij Tommy , Mansvelder Huibert D.
Published: February 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
The exotically stoichiometric compounds in Al–S system under high pressure
Authors: Shao Sen , Zhu Wenji , Lv Jian , Wang Yanchao , Chen Yue , Ma Yanming
Published: February 2020

Aluminum and sulfur, as abundant elements in earth, only form Al2S3 in nature at ambient pressure. It has been realized that the stoichiometry of compounds may change under high pressure, which is crucial in the discovery of novel materials. In this work, we systematically perform structure search for Al–S system under pressure. Four binary compounds of Al–S with exotic stoichiometries of AlS, Al2S, Al3S4, and AlS2 are found at high pressure and show exciting physical properties. In particular, Al3S4 becomes a superconductor with a predicted superconducting transition temperature Tc of 20.9 K at 100 GPa, while the pressure-induced Al2S becomes an electride, where the valence electrons of aluminum strongly localize in the interstices, acting as anions, at a pressure of 70 GPa. This work provides a viable direction for further experimental study of the properties of Al–S system.
An in vivo brain–bacteria interface: the developing brain as a key regulator of innate immunity
Authors: Herrera-Rincon Celia , Paré Jean-Francois , Martyniuk Christopher J. , Jannetty Sophia K. , Harrison Christina , Fischer Alina , Dinis Alexandre , Keshari Vishal , Novak Richard , Levin Michael
Published: February 2020

Infections have numerous effects on the brain. However, possible roles of the brain in protecting against infection, and the developmental origin and role of brain signaling in immune response, are largely unknown. We exploited a unique Xenopus embryonic model to reveal control of innate immune response to pathogenic E. coli by the developing brain. Using survival assays, morphological analysis of innate immune cells and apoptosis, and RNA-seq, we analyzed combinations of infection, brain removal, and tail-regenerative response. Without a brain, survival of embryos injected with bacteria decreased significantly. The protective effect of the developing brain was mediated by decrease of the infection-induced damage and of apoptosis, and increase of macrophage migration, as well as suppression of the transcriptional consequences of the infection, all of which decrease susceptibility to pathogen. Functional and pharmacological assays implicated dopamine signaling in the bacteria–brain–immune crosstalk. Our data establish a model that reveals the very early brain to be a central player in innate immunity, identify the developmental origins of brain–immune interactions, and suggest several targets for immune therapies.
The promise of mRNA vaccines: a biotech and industrial perspective
Authors: Jackson Nicholas A. C. , Kester Kent E. , Casimiro Danilo , Gurunathan Sanjay , DeRosa Frank
Published: February 2020

mRNA technologies have the potential to transform areas of medicine, including the prophylaxis of infectious diseases. The advantages for vaccines range from the acceleration of immunogen discovery to rapid response and multiple disease target manufacturing. A greater understanding of quality attributes that dictate translation efficiency, as well as a comprehensive appreciation of the importance of mRNA delivery, are influencing a new era of investment in development activities. The application of translational sciences and growing early-phase clinical experience continue to inform candidate vaccine selection. Here we review the state of the art for the prevention of infectious diseases by using mRNA and pertinent topics to the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries.