bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The prospective association between frequency of contact with friends and relatives and quality of life in older adults from Central and Eastern Europe
Authors: Luna Eliazar , Ruiz Milagros , Malyutina Sofia , Titarenko Anastasiya , Kozela Magdalena , Pająk Andrzej , Kubinova Ruzena , Bobak Martin
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Studies suggest that frequent contact with friends and relatives promote mental wellbeing in later life, but most evidence comes from Western populations. We investigated the prospective relationship between frequency of contact with friends and relatives and quality of life (QoL) among older Central and Eastern European (CEE) adults and whether depressive symptoms mediated the hypothesised longitudinal relationship.

Methods

Data from 6106 participants from the Health, Alcohol and Psychosocial factors In Eastern Europe (HAPIEE) study were used. Frequency of contact with friends and relatives was measured at baseline. QoL, at baseline and follow-up, was measured by the Control, Autonomy, Self-realisation, and Pleasure (CASP) 12-item scale. After assessing the prospective association using multivariable linear regression, the mediational hypothesis was tested using path analysis.

Results

There was a significant prospective association between frequency of contact with friends and relatives and CASP-12 score (0–36) in fully adjusted models. Per every one unit increase in frequency of contact, there was a 0.12 (95% CI 0.06, 0.17) increase in CASP-12 score at follow-up, accounting for sociodemographic, health-related and baseline QoL. Pathway results showed that 81% of the longitudinal effect of frequency of contact on QoL was mediated through depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Frequent contact with friends and relatives improves QoL of older Central and Eastern European adults, partly through buffering against depressive symptoms. Interventions to improve QoL at older ages should incorporate effective management of common mental disorders such as depression.
Model-based control algorithm development of induction machines by using a well-defined model architecture and rapid control prototyping
Authors: Horváth Krisztián , Kuslits Márton , Lovas Szilárd
Published: February 2020

This paper presents a new control algorithm development approach for induction machines by using model-based design and a systematically built model architecture implemented in MATLAB/Simulink. The model architecture follows a three-layer structure, and it is developed according to the principle of functional decomposition and the needs of reusability and expandability. The first model layer consists of elementary model and algorithm components, the second contains a machine simulation model and a field-oriented control (FOC) algorithm, built upon the first layer’s components, and the third realises the executable models by connecting the models and algorithms defined in the second layer. Furthermore, rapid control prototyping (RCP) is discussed as an experimental validation method, and an experimental setup with RCP is also introduced. The application of the presented methods is demonstrated by simulations as well as by experiments, and by using a control algorithm based on FOC as an example.
Expression and purification of the 5′-nucleotidase YitU from Bacillus species: its enzymatic properties and possible applications in biotechnology
Authors: Yusupova Yuliya R. , Skripnikova Victoria S. , Kivero Alexandr D. , Zakataeva Natalia P.
Published: February 2020

5’-Nucleotidases (EC 3.1.3.5) are enzymes that catalyze the hydrolytic dephosphorylation of 5′-ribonucleotides and 5′-deoxyribonucleotides to their corresponding nucleosides plus phosphate. In the present study, to search for new genes encoding 5′-nucleotidases specific for purine nucleotides in industrially important Bacillus species, “shotgun” cloning and the direct selection of recombinant clones grown in purine nucleosides at inhibitory concentrations were performed in the Escherichia coli GS72 strain, which is sensitive to these compounds. As a result, orthologous yitU genes from Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, whose products belong to the ubiquitous haloacid dehalogenase superfamily (HADSF), were selected and found to have a high sequence similarity of 87%. B. subtilis YitU was produced in E. coli as an N-terminal hexahistidine-tagged protein, purified and biochemically characterized as a soluble 5′-nucleotidase with broad substrate specificity with respect to various deoxyribo- and ribonucleoside monophosphates: dAMP, GMP, dGMP, CMP, AMP, XMP, IMP and 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-d-ribofuranosyl 5′-monophosphate (AICAR-P). However, the preferred substrate for recombinant YitU was shown to be flavin mononucleotide (FMN). B. subtilis and B. amyloliquefaciens yitU overexpression increased riboflavin (RF) and 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide ribonucleoside (AICAR) accumulation and can be applied to breed highly performing RF- and AICAR-producing strains.
Nonfemoral Arterial Hemostasis Following Percutaneous Intervention Using a Focused Compression Device
Authors: Barrette Louis-Xavier , Vance Ansar Z. , Shamimi-Noori Susan , Nadolski Gregory P. , Reddy Shilpa , Kratz Kathleen M. , Redmond Jonas W. , Clark Timothy W. I.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Upper extremity and tibiopedal arterial access are increasingly used during endovascular therapies. Balloon compression hemostasis devices in these anatomic locations have been described, but most utilize a compression surface extending well beyond the puncture site. We report single-center experience with an arterial puncture-focused compression device following upper extremity and tibiopedal access.

Patients and Methods

A series of 249 focused compression hemostasis devices (VasoStat, Forge Medical, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA) were used in 209 patients following lower extremity (n = 63) and upper extremity (n = 186; radial: 90%) arterial access procedures using 4–7 French sheaths. Demographic, operative, and follow-up data were collected. Logistic regression was used to evaluate potential association between patient/operative variables and time to hemostasis.

Results

Primary hemostasis was achieved in 97.2% (242/249) following sheath removal; in 7 cases (2.8%) puncture site oozing occurred after initial device removal and required reapplication. Secondary hemostasis was 100% (249/249). Seven complications (2.8%) were recorded: 5 minor hematomas (2%) and 2 transient access artery occlusions (0.8%). Mean time to hemostasis enabling device removal was 55 ± 28 min. Elevated body mass index (BMI) was not associated with increased time to hemostasis (p = 0.31). Accessed artery, sheath size, and heparin dose were also not associated with time to hemostasis (p = 0.64; p = 0.74; p = 0.75, respectively).

Conclusions

The focused compression hemostasis device enabled rapid hemostasis with a low complication rate. Time to hemostasis was independent of BMI, access site, sheath size, or heparin dose.
Determinants of self-reported functional status (EPIC-26) in prostate cancer patients prior to treatment
Authors: Roth Rebecca , Dieng Sebastian , Oesterle Alisa , Feick Günter , Carl Günther , Hinkel Andreas , Steiner Thomas , Kaftan Björn Theodor , Kunath Frank , Hadaschik Boris , Oostdam Simba-Joshua , Palisaar Rein Jüri , Koralewski Mateusz , Beyer Burkhard , Haben Björn , Tsaur Igor , Wesselmann Simone , Kowalski Christoph
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The self-reported functional status (sr-FS) of prostate cancer (PCa) patients varies substantially between patients and health-care providers before treatment. Information about this issue is important for evaluating comparisons between health-care providers and to assist in treatment decision-making. There have been few reports on correlates of pretherapeutic sr-FS. The objective of the article, therefore, is to describe clinical and sociodemographic correlates of pretherapeutic sr-FS, based on a subset of the TrueNTH Global Registry, a prospective cohort study.

Methods

A total of 3094 PCa patients receiving local treatment in 44 PCa centers in Germany were recruited between July 2016 and April 2018. Multilevel regression models were applied to predict five pretherapeutic sr-FS (EPIC-26) scores based on clinical characteristics (standard set suggested by the International Consortium for Health Outcomes Measurement), sociodemographic characteristics, and center characteristics.

Results

Impaired pretherapeutic sr-FS tended to be associated with lower educational level and poorer disease characteristics—except for “urinary incontinence” which was only associated with age. Notably, age was a risk factor (“urinary incontinence,” “urinary irritative/obstructive,” “sexual”) as well as a protective factor (“hormonal”) for pretherapeutic sr-FS. Pretherapeutic sr-FS varies little across centers.

Conclusions

Pretherapeutic sr-FS varies by clinical patient characteristics and age as well as by socioeconomic status. The findings point out the benefit of collecting and considering socioeconomic information in addition to clinical and demographic patient characteristics for treatment decision-making and fair comparisons between health-care providers.
The moderating role of lifestyle, age, and years working in shifts in the relationship between shift work and being overweight
Authors: Hulsegge Gerben , van Mechelen Willem , Paagman Heleen , Proper Karin I. , Anema Johannes R.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the moderating role of lifestyle, age, and years working in shifts and, shift work and being overweight.

Methods

Cross-sectional data were used of 2569 shift and 4848 non-shift production workers who participated between 2013 and 2018 in an occupational health check. Overweight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) was calculated using measured weight and height; lifestyle was assessed by questionnaires. Multiple-adjusted logistic regression with interaction terms between shift work and potential moderators assessed multiplicative interaction; the relative excess risk due to interaction assessed additive interaction (synergism).

Results

Shift work was significantly related to being overweight (OR 1.53, 95% CI 1.33 1.76). The strength of this association did not differ by level of sleep quality, fruit and vegetable intake, and physical activity (p ≥ 0.05). Additive and multiplicative interaction by smoking status was present (p < 0.01), with a stronger relationship between shift work and being overweight among non-smokers compared to smokers. Older age as well as more years of exposure to shift work were, independently from each other, related to a stronger relationship between shift work and being overweight (multiplicative interaction p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Shift work was to a similar extent related to being overweight among those with a healthy and unhealthy lifestyle. This does, however, not imply that shift workers can behave unhealthy without any harm. Based on the evident health benefits of a healthy lifestyle, it is still recommended to get sufficient quality of sleep and to meet the recommended level of daily physical activity and, fruit and vegetable intake.
High-throughput sequencing for community analysis: the promise of DNA barcoding to uncover diversity, relatedness, abundances and interactions in spider communities
Authors: Kennedy Susan R. , Prost Stefan , Overcast Isaac , Rominger Andrew J. , Gillespie Rosemary G. , Krehenwinkel Henrik
Published: February 2020

Large-scale studies on community ecology are highly desirable but often difficult to accomplish due to the considerable investment of time, labor and, money required to characterize richness, abundance, relatedness, and interactions. Nonetheless, such large-scale perspectives are necessary for understanding the composition, dynamics, and resilience of biological communities. Small invertebrates play a central role in ecosystems, occupying critical positions in the food web and performing a broad variety of ecological functions. However, it has been particularly difficult to adequately characterize communities of these animals because of their exceptionally high diversity and abundance. Spiders in particular fulfill key roles as both predator and prey in terrestrial food webs and are hence an important focus of ecological studies. In recent years, large-scale community analyses have benefitted tremendously from advances in DNA barcoding technology. High-throughput sequencing (HTS), particularly DNA metabarcoding, enables community-wide analyses of diversity and interactions at unprecedented scales and at a fraction of the cost that was previously possible. Here, we review the current state of the application of these technologies to the analysis of spider communities. We discuss amplicon-based DNA barcoding and metabarcoding for the analysis of community diversity and molecular gut content analysis for assessing predator-prey relationships. We also highlight applications of the third generation sequencing technology for long read and portable DNA barcoding. We then address the development of theoretical frameworks for community-level studies, and finally highlight critical gaps and future directions for DNA analysis of spider communities.
six3 acts upstream of foxQ2 in labrum and neural development in the spider Parasteatoda tepidariorum
Authors: Schacht Magdalena Ines , Schomburg Christoph , Bucher Gregor
Published: February 2020

Anterior patterning in animals is based on a gene regulatory network, which comprises highly conserved transcription factors like six3, pax6 and otx. More recently, foxQ2 was found to be an ancestral component of this network but its regulatory interactions showed evolutionary differences. In most animals, foxQ2 is a downstream target of six3 and knockdown leads to mild or no epidermal phenotypes. In contrast, in the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum, foxQ2 gained a more prominent role in patterning leading to strong epidermal and brain phenotypes and being required for six3 expression. However, it has remained unclear which of these novel aspects were insect or arthropod specific. Here, we study expression and RNAi phenotype of the single foxQ2 ortholog of the spider Parasteatoda tepidariorum. We find early anterior expression similar to the one of insects. Further, we show an epidermal phenotype in the labrum similar to the insect phenotype. However, our data indicate that foxQ2 is positioned downstream of six3 like in other animals but unlike insects. Hence, the epidermal and neural pattering function of foxQ2 is ancestral for arthropods while the upstream role of foxQ2 may have evolved in the lineage leading to the insects.
Exploring the factors that influence the public health impact of changes to the traditional housing officer’s role: insights from a logic modelling approach
Authors: Blank Lindsay , Holding Eleanor , Jordan Hannah , Ferrari Ed , Goyder Elizabeth
Published: February 2020

Background

Complex interventions can be challenging to summarise and interpret. One approach to attempt to succinctly describe such complexity is through the development of a logic model. This study considers a complex intervention that aimed to widen the role and responsibilities of housing officers, through a neighbourhood-based system.

Methods

We developed a logic model using both primary and secondary data collection alongside expert opinion in order to understand the complex relationships between the intervention being delivered and the actual and potential outcomes. Development of the model was supported by a range of data generation methods, including a scoping review of the literature, telephone survey with housing tenants, in-depth interviews with tenants and housing staff, and workshops with key stakeholders to help to develop and then validate the model.

Results

Our logic model highlights the key role of interpersonal relationships in building coherent neighbourhoods through intervention success and tenant satisfaction. We developed our initial model from analysis of documents relating to the intervention, along with wider literature, which detailed the policy context, theoretical approach and the expected outcomes.

Conclusions

The process of defining our final logic model generated insights that would not have emerged from a more narrative synthesis of secondary and primary data. The most important of these was a clear message about the central role of relationships between neighbourhood officers and tenants. In similar interventions, thought needs to be given on how a relationship can be built between a tenant and a neighbourhood officer.
On the seismic fragility of pipe rack—piping systems considering soil–structure interaction
Authors: Di Sarno Luigi , Karagiannakis George
Published: February 2020

Piping systems constitute the most vulnerable component in down- and mid-stream facilities posing immediate threat to human lives, communities financial robustness and environment. Pipe racks present several mechanical and geometrical idiosyncrasies compared to common buildings and the seismic response is governed by the pipework layout. Important design requirements e.g. dynamic interaction between pipelines and supporting structure are commonly overlooked during pipe racks design process and uncertainties relevant to modelling of soil or seismic input are not quantified. In the present work, after reviewing the technical literature and codes, a 3D RC rack was used as a testbed and analysed as coupled and decoupled with a non-seismic code conforming piping system accounting for soil–structure interaction. Incremental dynamic analysis was adopted as an assessment methodology for deriving fragility curves considering ground motions in near- and far-field conditions. It was deduced that the modelling (boundary conditions of pipes) was the most considerable uncertainty since it increased the probability of collapse limit state of structural members from 0 to 59%. It was also demonstrated that soil deformability as well as source conditions altered considerably the dispersion of intensity measure conditional on engineering demand parameter of structural and nonstructural members. The results may be another indication that code provisions should be more normative regarding industrial pipe racks.
Eugenol-loaded microspheres incorporated into textile substrates
Authors: Simões M. G. , Coimbra P. , Carreira A. S. , Figueiredo M. M. , Gil M. H. , Simões P. N.
Published: February 2020

This work reports studies on the production of eugenol-loaded microspheres by solvent evaporation method, targeted for incorporation into textile substrates, using different cellulose derivatives: ethyl cellulose, cellulose acetate (CA), cellulose butyrate acetate, and cellulose acetate phthalate. The microspheres were evaluated in terms of size, shape, thermal stability, encapsulation efficiency, and eugenol kinetics release. CA-based microspheres proved to be the best, thus being selected for subsequent experiments. Comparable properties of the CA-based microspheres were achieved ongoing from 100 mL to higher batch volumes (up to 2000 mL). The eugenol-loaded microspheres were successfully incorporated into cotton fabrics using a padding technique, confirmed by FE-SEM. Eugenol release profiles from the impregnated textiles demonstrated a slow and controlled release (less than 20% of the encapsulated amount over 90 days). The developed microspheres demonstrated to be the most promising for the retention and protection of hydrophobic active compounds for possible textile applications.

Graphic abstract
The effect of pulverization methods on the microstructure of stiff, ductile, and flexible carbon aerogels
Authors: Schwan Marina , Schettler Jessica , Badaczewski Felix M. , Heinrich Charlotte , Smarsly Bernd M. , Milow Barbara
Published: February 2020

Carbon aerogels find application in many fields. In most of the applications, they are used as powders and thus need to be pulverized. However, the pulverization could induce various changes in the microstructure of carbon aerogels. The extent of changes depends not only on the dominant forces of used technique, but also on the mechanical and structural properties of initial monolithic samples. In the present work, we discuss the influence of grinding, milling in shaker cryo-mill, and planetary ball mill on stiff, ductile and flexible carbon aerogels. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy images, gas sorption techniques, wide-angle X-ray scattering, and Raman spectroscopy show a strong dependency of the introduced energy amount while pulverization on the structure modification. Results show that stiff carbon aerogels do not undergo noticeable changes. In contrast, ductile carbon aerogels are very sensitive to friction forces. Soft and flexible carbon aerogels undergo drastic changes in the microstructure.
Sensitivity-enhanced three-dimensional and carbon-detected two-dimensional NMR of proteins using hyperpolarized water
Authors: Olsen Gregory L. , Szekely Or , Mateos Borja , Kadeřávek Pavel , Ferrage Fabien , Konrat Robert , Pierattelli Roberta , Felli Isabella C. , Bodenhausen Geoffrey , Kurzbach Dennis , Frydman Lucio
Published: February 2020

Signal enhancements of up to two orders of magnitude in protein NMR can be achieved by employing HDO as a vector to introduce hyperpolarization into folded or intrinsically disordered proteins. In this approach, hyperpolarized HDO produced by dissolution-dynamic nuclear polarization (D-DNP) is mixed with a protein solution waiting in a high-field NMR spectrometer, whereupon amide proton exchange and nuclear Overhauser effects (NOE) transfer hyperpolarization to the protein and enable acquisition of a signal-enhanced high-resolution spectrum. To date, the use of this strategy has been limited to 1D and 1H-15N 2D correlation experiments. Here we introduce 2D 13C-detected D-DNP, to reduce exchange-induced broadening and other relaxation penalties that can adversely affect proton-detected D-DNP experiments. We also introduce hyperpolarized 3D spectroscopy, opening the possibility of D-DNP studies of larger proteins and IDPs, where assignment and residue-specific investigation may be impeded by spectral crowding. The signal enhancements obtained depend in particular on the rates of chemical and magnetic exchange of the observed residues, thus resulting in non-uniform ‘hyperpolarization-selective’ signal enhancements. The resulting spectral sparsity, however, makes it possible to resolve and monitor individual amino acids in IDPs of over 200 residues at acquisition times of just over a minute. We apply the proposed experiments to two model systems: the compactly folded protein ubiquitin, and the intrinsically disordered protein (IDP) osteopontin (OPN).
Anaemia, iron homeostasis and pulmonary hypertension: a review
Authors: Sonnweber Thomas , Pizzini Alex , Tancevski Ivan , Löffler-Ragg Judith , Weiss Günter
Published: February 2020

Anaemia is a highly prevalent condition, which negatively impacts on patients’ cardiovascular performance and quality of life. Anaemia is mainly caused by disturbances of iron homeostasis. While absolute iron deficiency mostly as a consequence of chronic blood loss or insufficient dietary iron absorption results in the emergence of iron deficiency anaemia, inflammation-driven iron retention in innate immune cells and blockade of iron absorption leads to the development of anaemia of chronic disease. Both, iron deficiency and anaemia have been linked to the clinical course of pulmonary hypertension. Various mechanistic links between iron homeostasis, anaemia, and pulmonary hypertension have been described and current treatment guidelines suggest regular iron status assessment and the implementation of iron supplementation strategies in these patients. The pathophysiology, diagnostic assessment as well as current and future treatment options concerning iron deficiency with or without anaemia in individuals suffering from pulmonary hypertension are discussed within this review.
Digitale Behandlungsangebote für Insomnie – eine Übersichtsarbeit
Authors: Spiegelhalder Kai , Acker Jens , Baumeister Harald , Büttner-Teleaga Antje , Danker-Hopfe Heidi , Ebert David D. , Fietze Ingo , Frase Lukas , Klein Sarah , Lehr Dirk , Maun Andy , Mertel Isabella , Richter Kneginja , Riemann Dieter , Sauter Cornelia , Schilling Claudia , Schlarb Angelika A. , Specht Markus , Steinmetz Lisa , Weeß Hans G. , Crönlein Tatjana
Published: February 2020

Digital angebotene psychologische Interventionen gegen Schlafstörungen sind aktuell ein sehr intensiv bearbeitetes Forschungsthema. In dieser Übersichtsarbeit werden Originalarbeiten und Metaanalysen zu diesem Thema zusammengefasst. Hierbei zeigt sich, dass die internetbasierte kognitive Verhaltenstherapie für Insomnie (KVT-I) bei Erwachsenen durchweg sehr effektiv ist mit allenfalls leicht geringeren Effektstärken als die gleiche Behandlung mit physischer Präsenz von Therapeuten und Patienten. Behandlungseffekte zeigen sich dabei auch für sekundäre Outcome-Parameter wie Depressivität, Angst, Fatigue und Lebensqualität. Hingegen lassen die Forschung zur Wirksamkeit der internetbasierten KVT‑I bei Erwachsenen mit komorbiden psychischen Störungen oder körperlichen Erkrankungen sowie die Forschung zur Frage, wieviel Therapeutenkontakt in die Behandlung integriert werden sollte, anscheinend noch keine abschließenden Antworten zu. In diesen Bereichen scheint weitere Forschung notwendig zu sein scheint.
SEOM clinical guidelines for the treatment of small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) (2019)
Authors: Dómine M. , Moran T. , Isla D. , Martí J. L. , Sullivan I. , Provencio M. , Olmedo M. E. , Ponce S. , Blasco A. , Cobo M.
Published: February 2020

Small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) accounts for 15% of lung cancers. Only one-third of patients are diagnosed at limited stage. The median survival remains to be around 15–20 months without significative changes in the strategies of treatment for many years. In stage I and IIA, the standard treatment is the surgery followed by adjuvant therapy with platinum–etoposide. In stage IIB–IIIC, the recommended treatment is early concurrent chemotherapy with platinum–etoposide plus thoracic radiotherapy followed by prophylactic cranial irradiation in patients without progression. However, in the extensive stage, significant advances have been observed adding immunotherapy to platinum–etoposide chemotherapy to obtain a significant increase in overall survival, constituting the new recommended standard of care. In the second-line treatment, topotecan remains as the standard treatment. Reinduction with platinum–etoposide is the recommended regimen in patients with sensitive relapse (≥ 3 months) and new drugs such as lurbinectedin and immunotherapy are new treatment options. New biomarkers and new clinical trials designed according to the new classification of SCLC subtypes defined by distinct gene expression profiles are necessary.
Challenges in developing polymer flocculants to improve bitumen quality in non-aqueous extraction processes: an experimental study
Authors: Dixon Daniel V. , Stoyanov Stanislav R. , Xu Yuming , Zeng Hongbo , Soares João B. P.
Published: February 2020

Western Canada’s oil sands hold the third-largest hydrocarbon deposits in the world. Bitumen, a very heavy petroleum, is currently recovered by surface mining with warm water or in situ. Recovery processes that use organic solvents are being developed to reduce water usage and tailings production. While solvent-based methods can effectively extract bitumen, removal of residual fine solids from diluted bitumen product (DBP) to meet the pipeline transport requirement of < 0.5 wt% solids and water in DBP remains a major challenge. We propose a novel area of application of polymer flocculants for fine solids removal from DBP. In principle, polymer flocculants can be applied to help remove these residual solids in conjunction with physical separation processes to increase process effectiveness and energy efficiency. Several polymers are selected and screened for flocculation behavior using kaolinite suspended in DBP and toluene, as a model system. Focused beam reflectance measurements and force tensiometer techniques are used to determine flocculation and sedimentation in DBP. The observed flocculation and sedimentation rate enhancements indicate that the polymers tested have only minor effects, providing opportunities for advanced polymer development. These findings exemplify the challenges in identifying polymers that may be effective as flocculants in heavy petroleum media.
Bounding the final rank during a round robin tournament with integer programming
Authors: Gotzes Uwe , Hoppmann Kai
Published: February 2020

This article is mainly motivated by the urge to answer two kinds of questions regarding the Bundesliga, which is Germany’s primary football (soccer) division having the highest average stadium attendance worldwide: “At any point in the season, what is the lowest final rank a certain team can achieve?” and “At any point in the season, what is the highest final rank a certain team can achieve?”. Although we focus on the Bundesliga in particular, the integer programming formulations we introduce to answer these questions can easily be adapted to a variety of other league systems and tournaments.
Development of a Combined Leaching and Ion-Exchange System for Valorisation of Spent Potlining Waste
Authors: Robshaw Thomas J. , Bonser Keith , Coxhill Glyn , Dawson Robert , Ogden Mark D.
Published: February 2020

This work aims to contribute to addressing the global challenge of recycling and valorising spent potlining; a hazardous solid waste product of the aluminium smelting industry. This has been achieved using a simple two-step chemical leaching treatment of the waste, using dilute lixiviants, namely NaOH, H2O2and H2SO4, and at ambient temperature. The potlining and resulting leachate were characterised by spectroscopy and microscopy to determine the success of the treatment, as well as the morphology and mineralogy of the solid waste. This confirmed that the potlining samples were a mixture of contaminated graphite and refractory materials, with high variability of composition. A large quantity of fluoride was solublised by the leaching process, as well as numerous metals, some of them toxic. The acidic and caustic leachates were combined and the aluminium and fluoride components were selectively extracted, using a modified ion-exchange resin, in fixed-bed column experiments. The resin performed above expectations, based on previous studies, which used a simulant feed, extracting fluoride efficiently from leachates of significantly different compositions. Finally, the fluoride and aluminium were coeluted from the column, using NaOH as the eluent, creating an enriched aqueous stream, relatively free from contaminants, from which recovery of synthetic cryolite can be attempted. Overall, the study accomplished several steps in the development of a fully-realised spent potlining treatment system.

Graphic Abstract
Durability of the Reinforced One-Part Alkali-Activated Slag Mortars with Different Fibers
Authors: Abdollahnejad Z. , Mastali M. , Falah M. , Shaad K. Mohammad , Luukkonen T. , Illikainen M.
Published: February 2020

This paper investigates the effects of reinforcing one-part alkali-activated slag binders (OAASs) with different types of fiber (steel, polyvinyl alcohol [PVA], basalt, and cellulose) and fiber combinations (single and hybrid) on the mechanical and durability properties of OAASs. All OAASs were reinforced by a 1% fiber volume fraction. Compressive and flexural strengths were the mechanical properties, which were addressed. The durability of the reinforced OAASs was examined based on water absorption by immersion and capillary, acid resistance, high temperature resistance, carbonation resistance, and freeze/thaw resistance. The experimental results showed that the fiber type and combination greatly affects the mechanical and durability properties of OAASs. Moreover, the influence of fiber type and combination on high temperature resistance and freeze/thaw resistance is greater than the influence on acid resistance and carbonation resistance.

Graphic Abstract
Intercropping of grain legumes and cereals improves the use of soil N resources and reduces the requirement for synthetic fertilizer N: A global-scale analysis
Authors: Jensen Erik Steen , Carlsson Georg , Hauggaard-Nielsen Henrik
Published: February 2020

Planetary boundaries for terrestrial inputs of reactive nitrogen (Nr) are transgressed and reducing the input of new Nr and its environmental impacts are major global challenges. Grain legumes fix dinitrogen (N2) in symbiosis with soil bacteria and use soil N sources, but often less efficient than cereals. Intercropping grain legumes with cereals may be a means of increasing use efficiency of soil N. Here, we estimate the global sole cropped grain legume acquisition of N from soil to approximately 14.2 Tg N year−1, which corresponds to one-third of the global synthetic fertilizer N use (109 Tg N year−1) for all crops, assuming that grain legumes recover on average 40% of the fertilizer N. Published data from grain legume-cereal intercrop experiments, employing stable 15N isotope methods, have shown that due to competitive interactions and complementary N acquisition in intercrops, the cereals recover a more than proportional share of the soil N sources. As a consequence, the intercropped legume derives more of its N from the atmosphere, compared with when it is grown as legume sole crop. We estimated that the increased N use efficiency in intercropping can reduce the requirements for fossil-based fertilizer N by about 26% on a global scale. In addition, our estimates indicate that if all current grain legume sole crops would instead be intercropped with cereals, a potential net land saving would be achieved, when also replacing part of the current cereal sole crop area with intercropping. Intercropping has additional potential advantages such as increased yield stability and yield per unit area, reduced pest problems and reduced requirements for agrochemicals, while stimulating biodiversity. It is concluded that crop diversification by intercropping has the potential to reduce global requirements for synthetic fertilizer N and consequently support the development of more sustainable cropping systems.
Bridging the gap: Responding to resident burnout and restoring well-being
Authors: Hategan Ana , Riddell Tara
Published: February 2020

There is an increasing awareness of high burnout found among physicians. Resident physicians particularly face heightened stress due to inherent pressures of training in addition to systemic challenges common to healthcare. It is crucial that medical training programs and organizations create a culture which promotes physician well-being. We conducted an evaluation of a quality assurance pilot program aimed at creating a safe space for increasing burnout awareness and well-being among resident physicians. The program was voluntary, offered to psychiatry residents enrolled at McMaster University, and comprised an online resilience curriculum, peer groups, and wellness newsletters. Data analysis took place between December 15, 2018 and July 15, 2019. The educational goals were evaluated by outcome measures obtained over time in aggregated response data through residents’ anonymous survey feedback. All aspects of the triad received positive feedback, with peer groups being perceived as most helpful. Of all residents, 31% (n = 22) engaged in all three aspects of the program; the majority were female (83%) and senior residents (63%). While 48% reported burnout upon enrollment, there was an average 50% stress reduction perceived post-attendance. This project has shown that peer groups can make a difference in the daily experience of psychiatry residents at our institution.
Vertical (Dis‑)Integration and Firm Performance: A Management Paradigm Revisited
Authors: Kaiser Florian , Obermaier Robert
Published: February 2020

Vertical disintegration in manufacturing industries has been an increasing trend since the 1990s in many countries. According to a prevailing management paradigm of focusing on core competencies, firms should have vertically disintegrated (i.e. outsourced non-core competencies) to achieve cost savings, enhance competitiveness and improve firm performance. In line with this management paradigm, most empirical studies therefore hypothesized a negative linear relationship between the degree of vertical integration and firm performance, expecting performance to rise when vertical integration decreases.

In contrast to previous studies, finding mixed results, we assume an inverted u‑shaped relationship, theoretically based on transaction cost economics and the resource-based view of the firm, and by considering advantages and disadvantages of vertical integration, with an optimal level of vertical integration, where firms with a too low degree of vertical integration could achieve higher performance by vertical integration, while firms with too broad vertical integration could achieve higher performance by vertical disintegration.

With respect to our data based on a sample of 434 German manufacturing firms between 1993 and 2013 we find a decreasing trend of vertical integration over time. Applying multiple regression analysis, our findings suggest a positive, but diminishing relationship between the degree of vertical integration and financial performance. These two findings describe a paradox of vertical disintegration. The decreasing trend mainly emerges because lower performing firms outsourced their activities significantly whereas high performing firms do not show such a development. Overall, our results indicate that German manufacturing firms might have gone too far in in their vertical disintegration strategy by following a management paradigm which needs much more critical reflection.
Ein explosiver Habitus? Über Nutzen und Grenzen von Bourdieus Praxistheorie für die Erklärung von Selbstmordattentaten
Authors: Mayer Lotta
Published: February 2020

André Armbrusters Skizze einer praxeologischen Erklärung von Selbstmordanschlägen kommt das große Verdienst zu, die dominierenden rationalistischen Ansätze zu Selbstmordterrorismus nicht nur zu kritisieren, sondern eine soziologische Alternative auf der Basis einer nicht-rationalistischen Sozialtheorie zu formulieren. Dennoch greift Armbrusters Ansatz an entscheidenden Stellen zu kurz. Dies gilt sowohl in theoretischer als auch in empirischer Hinsicht. Während in Bourdieus Theorieanlage den unintendierten Sozialisationsprozessen im jeweiligen sozialen Feld eine zentrale Rolle zukommt, fokussiert Armbruster fast ausschließlich auf organisierte ,Trainingsprozesse‘ in den Camps der Hisbollah. Derart geraten ihm die ungesteuerten Sozialisationsprozesse im Feld, durch welche eine habituelle Disposition für Selbstmordattentate auch ohne darauf ausgerichtete Ausbildung entstehen könnte, fast völlig aus dem Blick. Mutmaßlich hängt dies damit zusammen, dass Armbruster das relevante Feld als ,Feld der Hisbollah‘ fasst, und derart den Kontext sozialer und politischer Konflikte in der Region aus den Augen verliert. Dieser Kontext aber ist zentral für die Erklärung des Entstehens eines desire für Selbstmordattentate ohne ,Training‘: Die Feldanalyse muss hier als Konfliktanalyse, nicht als Organisationsanalyse erfolgen. Zudem ist Armbrusters These, dass ein solches desire des Attentäters notwendig und hinreichend für Selbstmordanschläge sei, empirisch zweifelhaft. Vielmehr bedürfte es einer empirisch basierten Typologie unterschiedlich motivierter Attentäter in Relation zu den Prozessen ihrer Rekrutierung. Daran anschließend fragt sich, ob und wie mit Bourdieus Sozialtheorie jene Selbstmordanschläge, deren Ausführender kein entsprechendes desire entwickelt hatte, zu erklären wären.
Cardiovascular Disease and Triathlon-Related Deaths in the United Kingdom
Authors: Windsor Jeremy S. , Newman James , Sheppard Mary
Published: February 2020

Introduction

Triathlon is one of the fastest growing sports in the United Kingdom. However, in recent years several deaths have occurred. The intention of this study is to identify these cases and examine the role cardiovascular disease played in these deaths.

Methods

An extensive online search was performed to identify triathlon-related deaths (TRDs) in the United Kingdom and UK citizens who died during or as a result of competing in triathlons abroad. British Triathlon provided the number of participants who took part in UK-based events. Coroners provided information on all those who died.

Results

Between 2009 and 2015, 991,186 participants took part in British Triathlon-sanctioned events. Five TRDs in the United Kingdom were identified. The mortality rate was 0.5 per 100,000 participants. Deaths occurred during or after the swim (3), cycle (1), and run (1) events. During the same period, 5 TRDs were identified among UK citizens competing abroad. These deaths occurred during or after the swim (2), cycle (1), and run (2) events. Cardiovascular pathology was cited as a cause or contributing factor in half of the fatalities. Four deaths were referred to a specialist cardiac pathology service for autopsy.

Conclusions

Cardiovascular disease was found to be the most common cause of TRD. Further research is needed to determine the underlying cardiac pathology that triggers TRDs. With this information it may be possible to develop screening tools that can prevent similar fatalities from occurring in the future.
The New Puzzle of Moral Deference
Authors: Lewis Max
Published: February 2020

Philosophers think that there is something fishy about moral deference. The most common explanation of this fishiness is that moral deference doesn’t yield the epistemic states necessary for certain moral achievements (e.g., acting with moral worth or being virtuous). First, I argue that this explanation overgeneralizes. It entails that using many intuitively kosher belief-formation methods (e.g., abduction, reductio ad absurdum, and intuition) should be off-putting. Second, I argue that moral deference is sometimes superior to these other methods because it puts one in a better position to gain the relevant moral achievements.
Slavery and the Rise of American Capitalism
Authors: Allison Alex
Published: February 2020

Slavery has deep roots in the rise of American capitalism, and two recent publications have made significant contributions toward our understanding of how human bondage shaped the growth of the United States’ economy in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Accounting for Slavery: Masters and Management, by Caitlin Rosenthal, and Slavery’s Capitalism: A New History of American Economic Development, edited by Sven Beckert and Seth Rockman, each explore traditionally overlooked aspects of slavery’s connection to business innovation and American capitalism and present readers with a fuller—and perhaps more complicated—narrative of the ties between enslavement and the economy.
The Value of Behavioral Economics for EU Judicial Decision-Making
Authors: Winter Christoph K.
Published: February 2020

This Article analyzes the value of behavioral economics for EU judicial decision-making. The first part introduces the foundations of behavioral economics by focusing on cognitive illusions, prospect theory, and the underlying distinction between different processes of thought. The second part examines the influence of selected biases and heuristics, namely the anchoring effect, availability bias, zero-risk bias, and hindsight bias on diverse legal issues in EU law including, among others, the scope of the fundamental freedoms, the proportionality test as well as the roles of the Advocate General and Reporting Judge. The Article outlines how behavioral economic findings can be taken into account to improve judicial decision-making. Accordingly, the adaptation of judicial training concerning cognitive illusions, the establishment of a de minimis rule regarding the scope of the fundamental freedoms, and the use of economic models when determining the impact of certain measures on fundamental freedoms is suggested. Finally, an “unbiased jury” concentrating exclusively on specific factual issues such as causal connections within the proportionality test is necessary, if the hindsight bias is to be avoided. While it is of great importance to take behavioral economic findings into account, judicial decision-making is unlikely to become flawless based on natural intelligence. Despite bearing fundamental risks, artificial intelligence may provide means to achieve greater fairness, consistency, and legal certainty in the future.
Proportionality and the Right to Equality
Authors: Lurie Guy
Published: February 2020

This Article focuses on the overlap and interaction between the doctrine of proportionality and the doctrines used to assess the constitutionality of state violations of the right to equality. The Article has three main contributions to comparative constitutional literature. First, the Article pinpoints the difficulty that arises when courts try to apply the doctrine of proportionality on claimed violations of the right to equality. Analytically, as shown in this Article, the overlap and interaction between these two doctrines is problematic because they are both relational measures between means and ends. Second, this Article categorizes two models adopted by courts in the application of proportionality in the context of the violation of the right to equality. Third, this Article points out that the choice of the model used by each court is relevant to the ongoing discourse on the advantages and disadvantages of proportionality.
Alexy and the “German” Model of Proportionality: Why the Theory of Constitutional Rights Does Not Provide a Representative Reconstruction of the Proportionality Test
Authors: Petersen Niels
Published: February 2020

Robert Alexy is one of the most prominent proponents of proportionality in international legal scholarship. His theory has two dimensions. On the one hand, it is a normative defense of balancing. On the other hand, it seeks to provide a reconstruction of the case law of the German Federal Constitutional Court. This Article focuses on the reconstructive part of his theory. It argues that his reconstruction of the jurisprudence of the German Constitutional Court is only partly accurate. In particular, it does not provide a suitable reconstruction of the decisions in which the Court finds a statute to be inconsistent with the constitution. For this reason, the normative critique of Alexy’s theory does not necessarily translate into a critique of the jurisprudence of the German Constitutional Court’s application of proportionality or even the proportionality doctrine itself. Instead, it targets only one specific interpretation of proportionality.
Barriers and facilitators to standardization of ultrasound use and probe disinfection in the ambulatory setting
Authors: Ai Angela , Anderson Laura , Safdar Nasia , Shirley Daniel
Published: February 2020

To determine barriers and facilitators to standardization of ultrasound probe disinfection at ambulatory sites, we conducted observations and interviews of staff. Variability was noted in disinfection practices and in the use of protective equipment even for procedures with the potential for the probe to contact sterile tissues. Standardization is needed.
The role of subglacial hydrology in ice streams with elevated geothermal heat flux
Authors: Smith-Johnsen Silje , de Fleurian Basile , Nisancioglu Kerim H.
Published: February 2020

The spatial distribution of geothermal heat flux (GHF) under ice sheets is largely unknown. Nonetheless, it is an important boundary condition in ice-sheet models, and suggested to control part of the complex surface velocity patterns observed in some regions. Here we investigate the effect of including subglacial hydrology when modelling ice streams with elevated GHF. We use an idealised ice stream geometry and a thermomechanical ice flow model coupled to subglacial hydrology in the Ice Sheet System Model (ISSM). Our results show that the dynamic response of the ice stream to elevated GHF is greatly enhanced when including the interactive subglacial hydrology. On the other hand, the impact of GHF on ice temperature is reduced when subglacial hydrology is included. In conclusion, the sensitivity of ice stream dynamics to GHF is likely to be underestimated in studies neglecting subglacial hydrology.