bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing climate adaptation options for cereal-based systems in the eastern Indo-Gangetic Plains, South Asia
Authors: Tesfaye K. , Khatri-Chhetri A. , Aggarwal P. K. , Mequanint F. , Shirsath P. B. , Stirling C. M. , Jat M. L. , Rahut D. B. , Erenstein O.
Published: August 2019

New farming systems and management options are needed in South Asia as the intensive rice–wheat production system is set to become increasingly unsustainable under climate change. In the current study, six cropping systems options/treatments varying in tillage, crop establishment method, residue management, crop sequence and fertilizer and water management were evaluated using a cropping systems model under current (1980–2009) and future (2030 and 2050) climate scenarios in the state of Bihar, India. The treatments were current farmers' practice (CP), best fertilizer and water management practices, zero tillage (ZT) with no crop residue retention, ZT with partial crop residue retention (ZTPR), future conservation agriculture-based rice–wheat intensive cropping system (FCS-1) and future conservation agriculture-based maize–wheat intensive cropping system (FCS-2). The results indicate that climate change is likely to reduce rice–wheat system productivity under CP by 4% across Bihar. All the crop management options studied increased yield, water productivity and net returns over that of the CP under the current and future climate scenarios. However, the ZTPR treatment gave significantly higher relative yield, lower annual yield variability and a higher benefit-cost-ratio than the other treatments across cropping system components and climate periods. Although all the new cropping system treatments had a positive yield implication under the current climate (compared to CP), they did not contribute to adaptation under the future climate except FCS-2 in wheat. It is concluded that adaptation to future climate must integrate both cropping system innovations, and genetic improvements in stress tolerance.
Rosetting revisited: a critical look at the evidence for host erythrocyte receptors inPlasmodium falciparumrosetting
Authors: McQuaid Fiona , Rowe J. Alexandra
Published: August 2019

Malaria remains a major cause of mortality in African children, with no adjunctive treatments currently available to ameliorate the severe clinical forms of the disease. Rosetting, the adhesion of infected erythrocytes (IEs) to uninfected erythrocytes, is a parasite phenotype strongly associated with severe malaria, and hence is a potential therapeutic target. However, the molecular mechanisms of rosetting are complex and involve multiple distinct receptor–ligand interactions, with some similarities to the diverse pathways involved inP. falciparumerythrocyte invasion. This review summarizes the current understanding of the molecular interactions that lead to rosette formation, with a particular focus on host uninfected erythrocyte receptors including the A and B blood group trisaccharides, complement receptor one, heparan sulphate, glycophorin A and glycophorin C. There is strong evidence supporting blood group A trisaccharides as rosetting receptors, but evidence for other molecules is incomplete and requires further study. It is likely that additional host erythrocyte rosetting receptors remain to be discovered. A rosette-disrupting low anti-coagulant heparin derivative is being investigated as an adjunctive therapy for severe malaria, and further research into the receptor–ligand interactions underlying rosetting may reveal additional therapeutic approaches to reduce the unacceptably high mortality rate of severe malaria.
Psychological interventions using virtual reality for pain associated with medical procedures: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Georgescu Raluca , Fodor Liviu A. , Dobrean Anca , Cristea Ioana A.
Published: August 2019

Background

Virtual reality (VR) may enhance the effectiveness of psychological interventions for acute pain. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the efficacy and safety of VR-based interventions for pain associated with medical procedures.

Methods

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, and PsycINFO until June 17th 2018. We identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs), comparing VR-based psychological interventions to usual care, for pain intensity (primary outcome) or affective and cognitive components of pain (secondary outcomes), assessed real-time or retrospectively. Two independent reviewers performed study selection and data extraction. Risk of bias was independently evaluated by three raters using the revised Cochrane Collaboration tool. A random-effects model using the Paule and Mandel estimator was used for pooling effect sizes.

Results

27 RCTs (1452 patients) provided enough data for meta-analysis. Compared to usual care, VR-based interventions reduced pain intensity both real-time (9 RCTs, Hedges' g = 0.95, 95% CI 0.32–1.57) and retrospectively (22 RCTs, g = 0.87, 95% CI 0.54–1.21). Results were similar for cognitive (8 RCTs, g = 0.82, 95% CI 0.39–1.26) and affective pain components (14 RCTs, g = 0.55, 95% CI 0.34–0.77). There was marked heterogeneity, which remained similarly high in sensitivity analyses. Across domains, few trials were rated as low risk of bias and there was evidence of publication bias. Adverse events were rare.

Conclusions

Though VR-based interventions reduced pain for patients undergoing medical procedures, inferring clinical effectiveness is precluded by the predominance of small trials, with substantial risk of bias, and by incomplete reporting.
Subjective wellbeing as a determinant of glycated hemoglobin in older adults: longitudinal findings from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Authors: Poole Lydia , Hackett Ruth A. , Panagi Laura , Steptoe Andrew
Published: August 2019

Background

Previous research has shown an association between subjective wellbeing and incident diabetes. Less is known about the role of wellbeing for subclinical disease trajectories as captured via glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c). We aimed to explore the association between subjective wellbeing and future HbA1c levels, and the role of sociodemographic, behavioral and clinical factors in this association.

Methods

We used data from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing for this study (N = 2161). Subjective wellbeing (CASP-19) was measured at wave 2 and HbA1c was measured 8 years later at wave 6. Participants were free from diabetes at baseline. We conducted a series of analyses to examine the extent to which the association was accounted for by a range of sociodemographic, behavioral and clinical factors in linear regression models.

Results

Models showed that subjective wellbeing (CASP-19 total score) was inversely associated with HbA1c 8 years later after controlling for depressive symptoms, age, sex, and baseline HbA1c (B = −0.035, 95% CI −0.060 to –0.011, p = 0.005). Inclusion of sociodemographic variables and behavioral factors in models accounted for a large proportion (17.0% and 24.5%, respectively) of the relationship between wellbeing and later HbA1c; clinical risk factors explained a smaller proportion of the relationship (3.4%).

Conclusions

Poorer subjective wellbeing is associated with greater HbA1c over 8 years of follow-up and this relationship can in part be explained by sociodemographic, behavioral and clinical factors among older adults.
Callous-unemotional traits and fearlessness: A cardiovascular psychophysiological perspective in two adolescent samples using virtual reality
Authors: Thomson Nicholas D. , Gillespie Steven M. , Centifanti Luna C.M.
Published: August 2019

There has been a longstanding debate about the link between callous-unemotional traits and fearlessness. However, biological evidence for a relationship in adolescents is lacking. Using two adolescent samples, we measured emotional reactivity and cardiac measures of sympathetic (pre-ejection period) and parasympathetic (respiratory sinus arrhythmia) reactivity during 3D TV and virtual reality fear induction. Study 1 included 62 community adolescents from a stratified sample. Study 2 included 60 adolescents from Emotional and Behavioral Difficulties schools. Results were consistent across both studies. Adolescents with high callous-unemotional traits showed coactivation of the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. Consistent with these results, youths with callous-unemotional traits self-reported that they felt more in control after the fear induction. Thus, in both samples, youth with callous-unemotional traits displayed a physiological and emotional profile suggesting they maintained control during fear induction. Therefore, it is proposed here that a shift in thinking of youth with callous-unemotional traits as fearless to youth with callous-unemotional traits are better able to manage fearful situations, may be more appropriate.
Organizing Health Care Services for the 2017 “Athens Marathon, The Authentic:” Perspectives on Collaboration among Health and Safety Personnel in the Marathon Command Center
Authors: Bistaraki Angeliki , Georgiadis Konstantinos , Pyrros Demetrios G.
Published: August 2019

Introduction:

Mass gatherings pose unique challenges for interorganizational collaboration. The “Athens Marathon, The Authentic” is a 42,195m (26.2mile) race with approximately 18,000 runners that increases annually. On the same day, additional races take place and a grand total of more than 50,000 runners fill the city center of Athens, Greece. Responding effectively to unexpected incidents requires comprehensive planning, clear decision-making structure, and effective collaboration. Nonetheless, there is limited empirical evidence to support interagency collaboration in mass gatherings.

Purpose:

This study used the 2017 Athens Marathon and related races as the empirical setting to examine how interagency collaboration was perceived among the multiple public health and safety professionals involved in the marathon command center.

Methods:

Data comprised 10 semi-structured, in-depth interviews with key informants, direct observations of meetings and the event itself, and documentary analysis. Open coding and thematic analysis were used to analyze the data.

Results:

Findings indicated four key components of interagency collaboration in such an event: organizational culture, team synthesis, on-site spatial planning, and the usage of radio-amateurs.

Conclusion:

This study outlined the factors that shaped interagency collaboration in the context of a mass event. Practical implications arising from this study may inform the ways organizers of marathons and other mass sporting events can engage in effective partnerships and joint working.
Core Disaster Medicine Education (CDME) for Emergency Medicine Residents in the United States
Authors: Sarin Ritu R. , Biddinger Paul , Brown John , Burstein Jonathan L. , Burkle Frederick M. , Char Douglas , Ciottone Gregory , Hick John L. , Koenig Kristi L. , Little Charles , Schultz Carl , Maggin Jeremy , Goralnick Eric
Published: August 2019

Objectives:

Disaster Medicine (DM) education for Emergency Medicine (EM) residents is highly variable due to time constraints, competing priorities, and program expertise. The investigators’ aim was to define and prioritize DM core competencies for EM residency programs through consensus opinion of experts and EM professional organization representatives.

Methods:

Investigators utilized a modified Delphi methodology to generate a recommended, prioritized core curriculum of 40 DM educational topics for EM residencies.

Results:

The DM topics recommended and outlined for inclusion in EM residency training included: patient triage in disasters, surge capacity, introduction to disaster nomenclature, blast injuries, hospital disaster mitigation, preparedness, planning and response, hospital response to chemical mass-casualty incident (MCI), decontamination indications and issues, trauma MCI, disaster exercises and training, biological agents, personal protective equipment, and hospital response to radiation MCI.

Conclusions:

This expert-consensus-driven, prioritized ranking of DM topics may serve as the core curriculum for US EM residency programs.
The Effect of Prehospital Epinephrine in Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ng K.T. , Teoh W.Y.
Published: August 2019

Introduction:

Epinephrine has been recommended for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) resuscitation for nearly one century, but its efficacy and safety remain unclear in the literature. The primary aim of this review was to determine whether epinephrine increases the return of spontaneous circulation in OHCA patients.

Methods:

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted using the following databases: MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL, from their inception until October 2018. All the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Observational studies, case reports, case series, and non-systematic reviews were excluded.

Results:

Two trials including 8,548 patients were eligible for inclusion in the data synthesis. In patients who received epinephrine during OHCA, the incidence of return of spontaneous circulation was increased, with an odds ratio (95%CI) of 4.25 (3.79-4.75), P <.001, high-quality of evidence. The number of patients transported to hospital was increased in patients who had prehospital epinephrine, with an odds ratio (95%CI) of 2.31 (2.11-2.53), P <.001, high-quality of evidence. The prehospital use of epinephrine was associated with an increased survival to hospital discharge, the odds ratio (95%CI) being 1.43 (1.10-1.87), P = .008, moderate-quality of evidence. No significant effect was noted on the favorable neurologic state of patient at hospital discharge, with an odds ratio (95%CI) of 1.21 (0.90-1.64), P = .21, moderate-quality of evidence.

Conclusions:

This meta-analysis suggests that the prehospital use of epinephrine increases return of spontaneous circulation, transport of patients to hospital, and survival to hospital discharge for OHCA. However, no significant effects on favorable neurologic function at hospital discharge were demonstrated. The general quality of evidence ranged from moderate to high.
The Benefit of Interventions to Reduce Posttraumatic Stress in Youth Exposed to Mass Trauma: A Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Pfefferbaum Betty , Nitiéma Pascal , Newman Elana , Patel Anushka
Published: August 2019

Numerous interventions to address posttraumatic stress (PTS) in youth exposed to mass trauma have been delivered and evaluated. It remains unclear, however, which interventions work for whom and under what conditions. This report describes a meta-analysis of the effect of youth mass-trauma interventions on PTS to determine if interventions were superior to inactive controls and describes a moderator analysis to examine whether the type of event, population characteristics, or income level of the country where the intervention was delivered may have affected the observed effect sizes. A comprehensive literature search identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of youth mass-trauma interventions relative to inactive controls. The search identified 2,232 references, of which 25 RCTs examining 27 trials (N = 4,662 participants) were included in this meta-analysis. Intervention effects were computed as Hedge’s g estimates and combined using a random effects model. Moderator analyses were conducted to explain the observed heterogeneity among effect sizes using the following independent variables: disaster type (political violence versus natural disaster); sample type (targeted versus non-targeted); and income level of the country where the intervention was delivered (high- versus middle- versus low-income). The correlation between the estimates of the intervention effects on PTS and on functional impairment was estimated. The overall treatment effect size was converted into a number needed to treat (NNT) for a practical interpretation. The overall intervention effect was statistically significant (g = 0.57; P < .0001), indicating that interventions had a medium beneficial effect on PTS. None of the hypothesized moderators explained the heterogeneity among the intervention effects. Estimates of the intervention effects on PTS and on functional impairment were positively correlated (Spearman’s r = 0.90; P < .0001), indicating a concomitant improvement in both outcomes. These findings confirm that interventions can alleviate PTS and enhance functioning in children exposed to mass trauma. This study extends prior research by demonstrating improvement in PTS with interventions delivered to targeted and non-targeted populations, regardless of the country income level. Intervention populations and available resources should be considered when interpreting the results of intervention studies to inform recommendations for practice.
Forschungsnetzwerk KODAP
Authors: In-Albon Tina , Christiansen Hanna , Imort Stephanie , Krause Karen , Schlarb Angelika , Schneider Silvia , Schwarz Daniela , Weber Lorenz ,   KODAP-Team, Velten Julia
Published: August 2019

Zusammenfassung. Theoretischer Hintergrund: Die Anzahl universitärer psychotherapeutischer Ambulanzen für Kinder und Jugendliche an psychologischen Instituten ist in nur wenigen Jahren deutlich angestiegen. Diese erfreuliche Entwicklung ist potentiell für die Versorgung von Kindern und Jugendlichen mit psychischen Störungen, die praxisnahe Lehre im Psychologiestudium, die qualifizierte Psychotherapieausbildung und die klinisch-psychologische Forschung äußerst relevant. Der Wissensstand bezüglich Diagnostik, Ätiologie und psychotherapeutischer Behandlung von psychischen Störungen im Kindes- und Jugendalter steht für viele Störungsbilder deutlich hinter dem umfangreichen Forschungs- und Wissensstand psychischer Störungen des Erwachsenenalters. Vor diesem Hintergrund ist die Initiative, Daten der universitären Psychotherapieambulanzen für Kinder und Jugendliche zusammenzuführen, ein wesentlicher Schritt, um der Altersgruppe der Kinder und Jugendlichen gleich gut begründete und evaluierte Behandlungsansätze zukommen zu lassen. KODAP – die Koordination der Datenerhebung und -auswertung an Forschungs-‍, Lehr- und Ausbildungsambulanzen für psychologische Psychotherapie – übernimmt dabei die Koordination dieses komplexen Vorhabens sowohl für den Kinder- und Jugend- als auch den Erwachsenenbereich. Fragestellung / Methode: Es werden die soziodemographischen und klinischen Daten der im Jahr 2016 behandelten Patient_innen, deren Eltern und jeweiligen Therapeut_innen von sieben Ambulanzen beschrieben. Hierzu werden die deskriptiven Angaben zu Diagnosehäufigkeiten, Altersstruktur, Anzahl komorbider Störungen der Patient_innen und eine soziodemographische Beschreibung der Therapeut_innen und Eltern vorgestellt und diskutiert. Ergebnisse: Für das Jahr 2016 stehen Daten von 568 Kindern und Jugendlichen zwischen 3 und 20 Jahren ( Malter = 11.89, SD = 3.68; 46.6 % weiblich) zur Verfügung. Die häufigsten Diagnosen stellten die Angststörungen (F40, F41, F93) mit 317 Diagnosen (35.30 %), gefolgt von den hyperkinetischen Störungen und den Störungen des Sozialverhaltens (F90, F91, F92) mit 195 Diagnosen (21.71 %) dar. Bei 45.6 % der Patient_innen wurde mehr als eine Störungsdiagnose festgestellt. Des Weiteren lagen die Daten von 257 Müttern bzw. 228 Vätern und 126 Therapeut_innen, davon 83.1 % weiblich, vor. Schlussfolgerungen: Die Studie zeigt die Machbarkeit der Zusammenführung und Aufbereitung der Daten aus universitären Psychotherapieambulanzen für Kinder und Jugendliche. Zudem geben die Pilotdaten einen ersten Einblick in diese Inanspruchnahmepopulation.
The Seasonal Origins of Streamwater in Switzerland
Authors: Allen Scott T. , von Freyberg Jana , Weiler Markus , Goldsmith Gregory R. , Kirchner James W.
Published: August 2019

Quantifying the relative contributions of winter versus summer precipitation to streamflow may be important for understanding water‐resource sensitivity to precipitation variability. Here we compare volume‐weighted mean δ18O values in precipitation and streamflow for 12 catchments in Switzerland, to determine whether summer or winter precipitation is overrepresented in streamflow, relative to its proportion of total precipitation. Similarities between precipitation and streamflow weighted‐mean δ18O values indicate that roughly equal fractions of summer and winter precipitation supply streams in Switzerland. These results, together with mass conservation, suggest that similar fractions of summer and winter precipitation supply evapotranspiration. These findings contrast with the assumption that because summer precipitation falls when transpiration rates and evaporative demand are high, it should be underrepresented in streamflow and overrepresented in evapotranspiration. This contrast between seasonal water‐balance variations and the partitioning of seasonal precipitation into runoff and evapotranspiration demonstrates substantial interseasonal carryover of precipitation in storages that supply evapotranspiration.
A Synthetic Model to Quantify Dissolved Organic Carbon Transport in the Changjiang River System: Model Structure and Spatiotemporal Patterns
Authors: Lv Shucong , Yu Qibiao , Wang Fang , Wang Yuchun , Yan Weijin , Li Yanqiang
Published: August 2019

Riverine dissolved organic carbon (DOC) is an important carbon pool in the global biogeochemical cycle. DOC transport in river networks involves three processes: DOC input (including DOC release from terrestrial ecosystems and in situ production in river networks), in‐river removal, and export through watershed outlets or estuaries. DOC transport in large river networks is gaining attention due to its important role in carbon and nutrient supply and CO2 emission, for example. However, quantifying DOC input to rivers and in‐river removal is still not properly understood. This study developed a synthesis model to quantify DOC transport in the Changjiang River Network (CRN) by coupling spiraling theory with Strahler river order. Our study suggested that the wetlands proportion and soil organic matter are valid parameters in a DOC model and our simulations showed that approximately 2.65–4.86 Tg C/year entered rivers and 1.16–2.12 Tg C/year was exported to the estuary as DOC, with a removal proportion of over 50% throughout the CRN in 1980–2015. The subbasins of the Dongting Lake, the Yichang‐Jiujiang section of the mainstream, and the Min‐Tuo River were primary contributors of DOC load, accounting for approximately 45% of the bulk DOC load of the CRN. The subbasins of Jinsha River and Yalong River in the upper reaches of the CRN and the subbasin of Wu River contributed less than 10% of the DOC load. DOC export by the CRN accounted for 0.3–1.2% of the global DOC flux from land to sea.
Nucleus accumbens medium spiny neurons subtypes signal both reward and aversion
Authors: Soares-Cunha Carina , de Vasconcelos Nivaldo A. P. , Coimbra Bárbara , Domingues Ana Verónica , Silva Joana M. , Loureiro-Campos Eduardo , Gaspar Rita , Sotiropoulos Ioannis , Sousa Nuno , Rodrigues Ana João
Published: August 2019

Deficits in decoding rewarding (and aversive) signals are present in several neuropsychiatric conditions such as depression and addiction, emphasising the importance of studying the underlying neural circuits in detail. One of the key regions of the reward circuit is the nucleus accumbens (NAc). The classical view on the field postulates that NAc dopamine receptor D1-expressing medium spiny neurons (D1-MSNs) convey reward signals, while dopamine receptor D2-expressing MSNs (D2-MSNs) encode aversion. Here, we show that both MSN subpopulations can drive reward and aversion, depending on their neuronal stimulation pattern. Brief D1- or D2-MSN optogenetic stimulation elicited positive reinforcement and enhanced cocaine conditioning. Conversely, prolonged activation induced aversion, and in the case of D2-MSNs, decreased cocaine conditioning. Brief stimulation was associated with increased ventral tegmenta area (VTA) dopaminergic tone either directly (for D1-MSNs) or indirectly via ventral pallidum (VP) (for D1- and D2-MSNs). Importantly, prolonged stimulation of either MSN subpopulation induced remarkably distinct electrophysiological effects in these target regions. We further show that blocking κ-opioid receptors in the VTA (but not in VP) abolishes the behavioral effects induced by D1-MSN prolonged stimulation. In turn, blocking δ-opioid receptors in the VP (but not in VTA) blocks the behavioral effects elicited by D2-MSN prolonged stimulation. Our findings demonstrate that D1- and D2-MSNs can bidirectionally control reward and aversion, explaining the existence of controversial studies in the field, and highlights that the proposed striatal functional opposition needs to be reconsidered.
Inhibition of the transcriptional kinase CDK7 overcomes therapeutic resistance in HER2-positive breast cancers
Authors: Sun Bowen , Mason Seth , Wilson Robert C. , Hazard Starr E. , Wang Yubao , Fang Rong , Wang Qiwei , Yeh Elizabeth S. , Yang Meixiang , Roberts Thomas M. , Zhao Jean J. , Wang Qi
Published: August 2019

Resistance of breast cancer to human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) inhibitors involves reprogramming of the kinome through HER2/HER3 signaling via the activation of multiple tyrosine kinases and transcriptional upregulation. The heterogeneity of induced kinases prevents kinase targeting by a single kinase inhibitor and presents a major challenge to the treatment of therapeutically recalcitrant HER2-positive breast cancers (HER2+ BCs). As a result, there is a critical need for effective treatment that attacks the aberrant kinome activation associated with resistance to HER2-targeted therapy. Here, we describe a novel treatment strategy that targets cyclin-dependent kinase 7 (CDK7) in HER2 inhibitor-resistant (HER2iR) breast cancer. We show that both HER2 inhibitor-sensitive (HER2iS) and HER2iR breast cancer cell lines exhibit high sensitivity to THZ1, a newly identified covalent inhibitor of the transcription regulatory kinase CDK7. CDK7 promotes cell cycle progression through inhibition of transcription, rather than via direct phosphorylation of classical CDK targets. The transcriptional kinase activity of CDK7 is regulated by HER2, and by the receptor tyrosine kinases activated in response to HER2 inhibition, as well as by the downstream SHP2 and PI3K/AKT pathways. A low dose of THZ1 displayed potent synergy with the HER2 inhibitor lapatinib in HER2iR BC cells in vitro. Dual HER2 and CDK7 inhibition induced tumor regression in two HER2iR BC xenograft models in vivo. Our data support the utilization of CDK7 inhibition as an additional therapeutic avenue that blocks the activation of genes engaged by multiple HER2iR kinases.
Author Correction: A novel cancer vaccine with the ability to simultaneously produce anti-PD-1 antibody and GM-CSF in cancer cells and enhance Th1-biased antitumor immunity
Authors: Tian Hongwei , Shi Gang , Wang Qin , Li Yiming , Yang Qianmei , Li Chunlei , Yang Guoyou , Wu Min , Xie Qian , Zhang Shuang , Yang Yang , Xiang Rong , Yu Dechao , Wei Yuquan , Deng Hongxin
Published: August 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Adaptation of emotional state and standing balance parameters following repeated exposure to height-induced postural threat
Authors: Zaback Martin , Adkin Allan L. , Carpenter Mark G.
Published: August 2019

Height-induced postural threat influences standing balance control. However, it is unknown if minimizing individuals’ emotional response to threat moderates this relationship. This study repeatedly exposed individuals to height-induced postural threat to determine if reducing the emotional response to threat influences standing balance control. Sixty-eight young adults completed a series of standing trials at LOW (0.8 m above ground, away from edge) and HIGH (3.2 m above ground, at edge) postural threat conditions. Emotional state was assessed using self-report and electrodermal measures. Standing balance was assessed through analysis of centre of pressure (COP) movement and lower leg electromyographic activity. Individuals’ emotional response to threat was attenuated following repeated threat exposure. However, threat-induced changes in standing balance were largely preserved. When initially threatened, individuals leaned backward and demonstrated smaller amplitude and higher frequency of COP adjustments; these balance outcomes did not change following repeated threat exposure. Only high frequency COP oscillations (>1.8 Hz) and ankle muscle co-contraction showed any adaptation; regression analyses showed that these behavioural adaptations were accounted for by a combination of emotional and cognitive state changes. This suggests that some threat-induced standing balance changes are more closely linked with the emotional response to threat than others, and are therefore amendable to intervention.
A novel and simple formula to predict liver mass in porcine experimental models
Authors: Martínez de la Maza Lilia , Prado Verónica , Hessheimer Amelia J. , Muñoz Javier , García-Valdecasas Juan Carlos , Fondevila Constantino
Published: August 2019

A primary limitation in hepatic surgery is leaving a remnant liver of adequate size and function. Experimental models have been designed to study processes of liver injury and regeneration in this context, yet a formula to accurately calculate liver mass in an animal model is lacking. This study aims to create a novel and simple formula to estimate the mass of the native liver in a species of pigs commonly used in experimental liver surgery protocols. Using data from 200 male weanling Landrace-Large White hybrid pigs, multiple linear regression analysis is used to generate the formula. Clinical features used as variables for the predictive model are body mass and length. The final formula for pig liver mass is as follows: Liver mass (g) = 26.34232 * Body mass (kg) – 1.270629 * Length (cm) + 163.0076; R2 = 0.7307. This formula for porcine liver mass is simple to use and may be helpful in studies using animals of similar characteristics to evaluate restoration of liver mass following major hepatectomy.
Mitochondrial sub-cellular localization of cAMP-specific phosphodiesterase 8A in ovarian follicular cells
Authors: Lounas Amel , Vernoux Nathalie , Germain Marc , Tremblay Marie-Eve , Richard François J.
Published: August 2019

Cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) is a ubiquitous secondary messenger that plays a central role in endocrine tissue function, particularly in the synthesis of steroid hormones. The intracellular concentration of cAMP is regulated through its synthesis by cyclases and its degradation by cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDEs). Although the expression and activity of PDEs impact the specificity and the amplitude of the cAMP response, it is becoming increasingly clear that the sub-cellular localization of PDE emphasizes the spatial regulation of the cell signalling processes that are essential for normal cellular function. We first examined the expression of PDE8A in porcine ovarian cells. PDE8A is expressed in granulosa cells, cumulus cells and oocytes. Second, we assessed the mitochondrial sub-cellular localization of PDE8A. Using western blotting with isolated mitochondrial fractions from granulosa cells and cumulus-oocyte complexes revealed immuno-reactive bands. PDE assay of isolated mitochondrial fractions from granulosa cells measured specific PDE8 cAMP-PDE activity as PF-04957325-sensitive. The immune-reactive PDE8A signal and MitoTracker labelling co-localized supporting mitochondrial sub-cellular localization of PDE8A, which was confirmed using immuno-electron microscopy. Finally, the effect of PDE8 on progesterone production was assessed during the in-vitro maturation of cumulus-oocyte complexes. Using PF-04957325, we observed a significant increase (P < 0.05) in progesterone secretion with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Active mitochondria stained with MitoTracker orange CMTMRos were also increased by the specific PDE8 inhibitor supporting its functional regulation. In conclusion, we propose the occurrence of mitochondrial sub-cellular localization of PDE8A in porcine granulosa cells and cumulus cells. This suggests that there is potential for new strategies for ovarian stimulation and artificial reproductive technologies, as well as the possibility for using new media to improve the quality of oocytes.
Beyond 30% Conversion Efficiency in Silicon Solar Cells: A Numerical Demonstration
Authors: Bhattacharya Sayak , John Sajeev
Published: August 2019

We demonstrate through precise numerical simulations the possibility of flexible, thin-film solar cells, consisting of crystalline silicon, to achieve power conversion efficiency of 31%. Our optimized photonic crystal architecture consists of a 15 μm thick cell patterned with inverted micro-pyramids with lattice spacing comparable to the wavelength of near-infrared light, enabling strong wave-interference based light trapping and absorption. Unlike previous photonic crystal designs, photogenerated charge carrier flow is guided to a grid of interdigitated back contacts with optimized geometry to minimize Auger recombination losses due to lateral current flow. Front and back surface fields provided by optimized Gaussian doping profiles are shown to play a vital role in enhancing surface passivation. We carefully delineate the drop in power conversion efficiency when surface recombination velocities exceed 100 cm/s and the doping profiles deviate from prescribed values. These results are obtained by exact numerical simulation of Maxwell’s wave equations for light propagation throughout the cell architecture and a state-of-the-art model for charge carrier transport and Auger recombination.
Cucurbituril Homologues and Derivatives: Syntheses and Functionalization
Authors: Koc Ahmet , Tuncel Dönüs
Published: August 2019

In this chapter, we discuss the syntheses and functionalization of cucurbituril (CB[n]) homologues and derivatives. We begin with a historical background on CB[n] chemistry, from the first known CB[n] homologue, CB[6], to the latest advances in functionalized CB[n] synthesis. Then we elaborate on unsubstituted CB[n] homologues regarding their synthesis, isolation, formation mechanisms, and structural and physical properties. We broadly discuss the synthesis of substituted CB[n] derivatives with various strategies. There are three known methods to synthesize substituted CB[n] from modified precursors: (1) use of substituted glycoluril, (2) use of substituted glycoluril oligomers and (3) use of aldehydes other than formaldehyde. In the last part of the chapter, we give detailed information on the direct functionalization of CB[n]. This part presents the synthesis of multi- and monohydroxylated derivatives via radical oxidation of CB[n] homologues and their further derivatization to reactive groups bearing multi- and monoalkylated CB[n].
Hybrid Supramolecular Assemblies of Cucurbit[n]uril-supported Metal and Other Inorganic Nanoparticles
Authors: Sayed Mhejabeen , Dutta Choudhury Sharmistha , Pal Haridas
Published: August 2019

Nanoparticles (NPs) have promising applications in catalysis, sensing, theranostics, plasmonics and other areas. Since bare NPs undergo spontaneous agglomeration, which diminishes their activity, they need to be stabilized by suitable capping agents to maintain their dispersion in water. Capping agents that bind with NPs involving reasonably mild interactions are preferred because they allow target molecules to access NP surfaces quite easily, resulting in the most desired effects. Cucurbit[n]uril (CB[n]) macrocycles have been identified as soft capping agents, as they bind to NP surfaces using simple noncovalent interactions involving their polarizable carbonyl portals. Moreover, CB[n] hosts help in bringing out additional functionalities of the NPs. Extensive studies have been reported on various CB[n]-assisted NP systems, exploring their potential in diverse applications. In this chapter, our effort has been to summarize some of the important results reported in the literature, discussing mainly CB[n]-assisted metal nanoparticles and some inorganic nanomaterial systems.
Cucurbituril-assisted Supramolecular Polymeric Hydrogels
Authors: Khaligh Aisan , Tuncel Dönüs
Published: August 2019

Cucurbituril-assisted supramolecular polymeric hydrogels (CB-SPHs), formed by supramolecular cross-linking of polymer chains via directional noncovalent interactions, are a novel class of three-dimensional cross-linked polymeric materials with unique properties including stimuli responsiveness, processability, water-retention ability, biocompatibility, biodegradability, biostability, self-healing and shape-memory abilities. Cucurbit[n]urils (CB[n]) with rigid symmetrical structure and remarkably high binding affinity to guest molecules are commonly used macrocyclic hosts for SPHs. Due to the dynamic CB[n] host–guest interactions, CB-SPHs undergo reversible gel–sol conversion and can effectively change their physicochemical and mechanical properties upon exposure to external stimuli. These aqueous polymeric networks exhibit exceptional advantages in a wide variety of biomedical and industrial applications. This chapter describes the recent achievements in the design, synthesis and properties of CB-SPHs constructed through noncovalent interactions of CB[n] hosts with specific chemical motifs pendant from polymer chains, as well as their applications in various fields such as drug delivery, wound dressing and healing, tissue engineering, diagnostic devices, wood conservation, adhesives, stretchable and wearable electronics, injection and printing substances etc.
Supramolecular Interactions of Cucurbit[n]uril Homologues and Derivatives with Biomolecules and Drugs
Authors: Cheng Qian , Yin Hang , Wyman Ian W. , Wang Ruibing
Published: August 2019

The cucurbit[n]uril (CB[n]) family is an emerging class of host molecules in the field of supramolecular chemistry with a relatively short history (except for CB[6]). The internal cavities of CB[n]s are nonpolar and hydrophobic, guarded by two carbonyl-laced portals, thus they can encapsulate not only neutral molecules via hydrophobic effects but also complex cationic species via ion–dipole interactions. Due to these unique properties, many promising discoveries of supramolecular interactions between CB[n]s and biomolecules and small organic drug molecules have emerged with potential implications in the field of pharmaceutical sciences, which have become one of the most significant areas of potential applications for CB[n]s. In this chapter, we summarize the noncovalent interactions of peptides, proteins and drug molecules with CB[n] homologues and derivatives and discuss the ability of CB[n]s to modulate the functions and bioactivities of these species through host–guest chemistry, as well as the potential of CB[n]s for protein enrichments, together with other relevant topics.
Cucurbit[6]uril-based Polymer Nanocapsules
Authors: Murray James , Kim Sungwan , Kim Kimoon
Published: August 2019

In this chapter, we discuss cucurbit[6]uril (CB[6])-based polymer nanocapsules (PNCs) as a nanomaterial, which can be produced by a direct, one-pot method for the synthesis of PNCs without using any preorganized structure, emulsifier or template. The main feature of the PNCs is that they are made of a CB[6] derivative, which allows facile tailoring of the PNCs’ surface in a noncovalent and modular manner by virtue of the unique recognition properties of the accessible CB[6] cavity. This chapter describes our discoveries of the self-assembly of PNCs through strong, practically irreversible covalent bond formation and their applications in various areas including heterogeneous catalysis, drug delivery and in vivo imaging.
Cucurbituril-functionalized Supramolecular Assemblies: Gateways to Diverse Applications
Authors: Mohanty J. , Khurana R. , Barooah N. , Bhasikuttan A. C.
Published: August 2019

Construction of smart materials based on supramolecular interactions has received considerable research interest owing to their potential applications in energy storage, photonic devices, drug delivery vehicles, sensors as well as therapeutics. In this context, research literature has seen tremendous contributions on the supramolecular assemblies of small guest molecules with various macrocyclic receptors because they provide a unique way to control tailor-made nanoarchitectures in creating predesigned functional materials for targeted applications. This chapter covers some of the recent works, including ours, on the spectacular molecular properties of cucurbituril-based supramolecular functional assemblies of a few organic dyes and polyoxometalates having technological and biological importance, especially in the domain of aqueous dye laser, light-emitting devices, photofunctional devices, energy storage devices, molecular architectures, supramolecular catalysts, radiotracer separation, antibacterial agents and drug delivery vehicles.
Supramolecular Assemblies of Cucurbit[n]urils with Conjugated Polymers and Porphyrins: Effects on Their Photophysical and Photochemical Properties and Their Applications in Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Dibona-Villanueva Luciano , Mariño-Ocampo Nory , Fuentealba Denis
Published: August 2019

Supramolecular assemblies between cucurbit[n]uril macrocycles and a variety of conjugated polymers and porphyrins are reviewed in this chapter. The interactions between these macromolecules are based on the formation of inclusion complexes leading to the modification of some of its properties. Our focus herein is on the effect of cucurbit[n]urils on photophysical and photochemical properties of conjugated polymers and porphyrins. These supramolecular complexes hold great potential for applications in several areas, including light-emitting devices, optical sensors, photocatalysis and phototherapies. Conjugated polymers present great emissive properties, and they can be designed to possess antibacterial and/or phototoxic properties, both of which can be altered by complexation with cucurbit[n]urils. Modification of the photophysical properties occurs when the backbone is threaded through the cucurbit[n]urils, while complexation of the side chains can alter their toxicity. On the other hand, porphyrins are the standard molecules used in photodynamic therapy. These macrocycles not only provide a great solubilizing vehicle for porphyrins but modify their photophysical and photochemical properties such as singlet- and triplet-excited state lifetimes, emission quantum yields and singlet oxygen–generation capabilities. These novel supramolecular photosensitizers provide a way to reversibly control their photoactivity with great potential for their use in photodynamic therapy.
Optically active triptycenes containing hexa-peri-hexabenzocoronene units
Authors: Wada Yuya , Shinohara Ken-ichi , Ikai Tomoyuki
Published: August 2019

We have successfully generated both left- and right-handed circularly polarized light using crystals prepared from a racemic triptycene containing hexa-peri-hexabenzocoronene units.
Facile mass production of self-supported two-dimensional transition metal oxides for catalytic applications
Authors: Kang Yihong , Xie Hanhan , Liu Danni , Gao Ming , Chu Paul K. , Ramakrishna Seeram , Yu Xue-Feng
Published: August 2019

A novel metal-corrosion route beyond traditional strategies for the mass production of 2D TMOs with a self-supported structure.
Transition metal embedded C3N monolayers as promising catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Zhao Yameng , Ma Dongwei , Zhang Jing , Lu Zhansheng , Wang Yuanxu
Published: August 2019

Transition metal-embedded C3N monolayers as efficient catalysts for the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction are investigated, and the underlying electronic mechanisms are revealed.
Solvent-responsive cavitand lanthanum complex
Authors: Guagnini Francesca , Pedrini Alessandro , Swager Timothy M. , Massera Chiara , Dalcanale Enrico
Published: August 2019

A new, solvent responsive tetra-phosphonate cavitand lanthanum complex forms a dimer in acetonitrile, interconverts into a monomeric complex in acetone and is disassembled in methanol.
Different dietary protein sources in low protein diets regulate colonic microbiota and barrier function in a piglet model
Authors: Li Rui , Hou Gaifeng , Jiang Xiaodie , Song Zehe , Fan Zhiyong , Hou De-Xing , He Xi
Published: August 2019

Protein fermentation has an adverse effect on colonic health; high-quality proteins and reducing the protein level (protein restriction) can effectively decrease the amount of proteins flowing into the colon for microbial protein fermentation.
Meso–macroporous organic polymer-supported homogeneously dispersed small Pd nanoparticles obtained by a simple ion-exchange approach for the Heck reaction
Authors: Ding Shunmin , Qu Baihong , Li Yuan , Sun Ling , Wu Shaohua , Zeng Rong , Xu Mengmeng , Chen Chao , Zhang Ning
Published: August 2019

Herein, a meso–macroporous organic polymer-supported Pd nanoparticle catalyst (Pd/MOP-I) with homogeneously dispersed small Pd NPs (ca. 2.4 nm) was synthesized by a simple ion-exchange approach.
Renewable chitosan-derived cobalt@N-doped porous carbon for efficient aerobic esterification of alcohols under air
Authors: Zhu Qian , Wang Fushan , Zhang Fengwei , Dong Zhengping
Published: August 2019

A novel, cost-effective and environmentally friendly Co-based N-doped mesoporous carbon catalyst was fabricated by a simple one-pot pyrolysis method and was used for selective catalytic oxidative esterification of alcohols into esters under air.
Critical thickness of a surface-functionalized coating for enhanced lithium storage: a case study of nanoscale polypyrrole-coated FeS2 as a cathode for Li-ion batteries
Authors: Wang Kun , Huang Su-Ping , Wu Yao , Cai Na-Na , Li Neng , Xiao Qi , Sun Ziqi
Published: August 2019

We report the critical thickness of a surface-functionalized coating for enhanced lithium storage.
Borazatruxenes
Authors: Limberti Simone , Emmett Liam , Trandafir Anamaria , Kociok-Köhn Gabriele , Pantoş G. Dan
Published: August 2019

We report the straight forward synthesis of a series of arene-borazine hybrids (BN-PAHs) called borazatruxenes; the DFT, solid state and solution characterisation are reported along with the separation and chiroptical studies of four optical isomers.
Site-specific C-terminal dinitrophenylation to reconstitute the antibody Fc functions for nanobodies
Authors: Hong Haofei , Zhou Zhifang , Zhou Kun , Liu Shaozhong , Guo Zhongwu , Wu Zhimeng
Published: August 2019

A practical strategy to reconstitute the Fc functions of nanobody was developed by nanobody C-terminal dinitrophenylation. The Fc functions are successfully reinstated as proved by the potent ADCC and CDC in vitro and anti-tumor efficacies in vivo.
Scalar activity induced phase separation and liquid–solid transition in a Lennard-Jones system
Authors: Chari S. Siva Nasarayya , Dasgupta Chandan , Maiti Prabal K.
Published: August 2019

A simple two-temperature model makes an equal mixture of identical LJ particles phase separate and develop crystalline order in cold clusters.
Core-composite mediated separation of diverse nanoparticles to purity
Authors: Bhatt Chandra S. , Nagaraj Bharathkumar , Ghosh Deepanjan , Ramasamy Sureshkumar , Thapa Ranjit , Marpu Sreekar B. , Suresh Anil K.
Published: August 2019

A generalized method for sorting nanoparticles based on their cores does not exist; it is an immediate necessity, and an approach incorporating cost-effectiveness and biocompatibility is in demand.
Retraction: Hollow amorphous NaFePO4 nanospheres as a high-capacity and high-rate cathode for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Tong Dong Ge
Published: August 2019

Retraction of ‘Hollow amorphous NaFePO4 nanospheres as a high-capacity and high-rate cathode for sodium-ion batteries’ by Chun Li et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2015, 3, 8265–8271.
Retraction: Black mesoporous anatase TiO2 nanoleaves: a high capacity and high rate anode for aqueous Al-ion batteries
Authors: Tong Dong Ge
Published: August 2019

Retraction of ‘Black mesoporous anatase TiO2 nanoleaves: a high capacity and high rate anode for aqueous Al-ion batteries’ by Ying Juan He et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2014, 2, 1721–1731.