bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forces maintaining the DNA double helix
Authors: Privalov Peter L. , Crane-Robinson Colyn
Published: May 2020

Despite the common acceptance that the enthalpy of DNA duplex unfolding does not depend on temperature and is greater for the CG base pair held by three hydrogen bonds than for the AT base pair held by only two, direct calorimetric measurements have shown that the enthalpic and entropic contributions of both base pairs are temperature dependent and at all temperatures are greater for the AT than the CG pair. The temperature dependence results from hydration of the apolar surfaces of bases that become exposed upon duplex dissociation. The larger enthalpic and entropic contributions of the AT pair are caused by water fixed by this pair in the minor groove of DNA and released on duplex dissociation. Analysis of the experimental thermodynamic characteristics of unfolding/refolding DNA duplexes of various compositions shows that the enthalpy of base pairing is negligibly small, while the entropic contribution is considerable. Thus, DNA base pairing is entropy driven and is coupled to the enthalpy driven van der Waals base pair stacking. Each of these two processes is responsible for about half the Gibbs energy of duplex stabilization, but all the enthalpy, i.e., the total heat of melting, results from dissociation of the stacked base pairs. Both these processes tightly cooperate: while the pairing of conjugate bases is critical for recognition of complementary strands, stacking of the flat apolar surfaces of the base pairs reinforces the DNA duplex formed.
GPS + Galileo + BeiDou precise point positioning with triple-frequency ambiguity resolution
Authors: Li Pan , Jiang Xinyuan , Zhang Xiaohong , Ge Maorong , Schuh Harald
Published: May 2020

Along with the rapid development of GNSS, not only BeiDou, but also Galileo, and the newly launched GPS satellites can provide signals on three frequencies at present. To fully take advantage of the multi-frequency multi-system GNSS observations on precise point positioning (PPP) technology, this study aims to implement the triple-frequency ambiguity resolution (AR) for GPS, Galileo, and BeiDou-2 combined PPP using the raw observation model. The processing of inter-frequency clock bias (IFCB) estimation and correction in the context of triple-frequency PPP AR has been addressed, with which the triple-frequency uncalibrated phase delay (UPD) estimation is realized for real GPS observations for the first time. In addition, the GPS extra-wide-line UPD quality is significantly improved with the IFCB correction. Because of not being contaminated by the IFCB, the raw UPD estimation method is directly employed for Galileo which currently has 24 satellites in operation. An interesting phenomenon is found that all Galileo satellites except E24 have a zero extra-wide-lane UPD value. With the multi-GNSS observations provided by MGEX covering 15 days, the positioning solutions of GPS + Galileo + BeiDou triple-frequency PPP AR have been conducted and analyzed. The triple-frequency kinematic GNSS PPP AR can achieve an averaged 3D positioning error of 2.2 cm, and an averaged convergence time of 10.8 min. The average convergence time can be reduced by triple-frequency GNSS PPP AR by 15.6% compared with dual-frequency GNSS PPP AR, respectively. However, the additional third frequency has only a marginal contribution to positioning accuracy after convergence.
Modification of softwood kraft pulp fibres using hydrogen peroxide at acidic conditions
Authors: Martinsson Axel , Hasani Merima , Potthast Antje , Theliander Hans
Published: May 2020

The aim of this work was to provide softwood kraft pulp fibres with new functionalities by the introduction of carbonyl groups. Carbonyl groups are known to affect properties such as wet strength through the formation of covalent bonds, i.e. hemiacetals. The method developed involves oxidation using hydrogen peroxide at mildly acidic conditions. It was found that the carbonyl group content increased with both increasing temperature and residence time when oxidized at acidic conditions. The number of carboxylic groups, however, remained approximately constant. There was virtually no increase in carbonyl groups when oxidation was performed at alkaline conditions. The maximum increase in carbonyl groups was found at a residence time of 90 min, a reaction temperature of 85 °C and a pH of 4. These conditions resulted in an increase in carbonyl groups from 30 to 122 µmol/g. When formed into a sheet, the pulp oxidized at acidic conditions proved to maintain its structural integrity at aqueous conditions. This indicates the formation of hemiacetal bonds between the introduced carbonyl groups and the hydroxyl groups on the carbohydrate chains. Thus, a possible application for the method could be fibre modification during the final bleaching stage of softwood kraft pulp, where the wet strength of the pulp could be increased.
Model decomposition of timed event graphs under periodic partial synchronization: application to output reference control
Authors: Trunk Johannes , Cottenceau Bertrand , Hardouin Laurent , Raisch Joerg
Published: May 2020

Timed Event Graphs (TEGs) are a graphical model for decision free and time-invariant Discrete Event Systems (DESs). To express systems with time-variant behaviors, a new form of synchronization, called partial synchronization (PS), has been introduced for TEGs. Unlike exact synchronization, where two transitions t1,t2 can only fire if both transitions are simultaneously enabled, PS of transition t1 by transition t2 means that t1 can fire only when transition t2 fires, but t1 does not influence the firing of t2. This, for example can describe the synchronization between a local train and a long distance train. Of course it is reasonable to synchronize the departure of a local train by the arrival of long distance train in order to guarantee a smooth connection for passengers. In contrast, the long distance train should not be delayed due to the late arrival of a local train. Under the assumption that PS is periodic, we can show that the dynamic behavior of a TEG under PS can be decomposed into a time-variant and a time-invariant part. It is shown that the time-variant part is invertible and that the time-invariant part can be modeled by a matrix with entries in the dioid ${\mathcal{M}}_{in}^{ax}\left [\!\left [\gamma ,\delta \right ]\!\right ]$

M

i
n

a
x

γ
,
δ

, i.e. the time-invariant part can be interpreted as a standard TEG. Therefore, the tools introduced for standard TEGs can be used to analyze and to control the overall system. In particular, in this paper output reference control for TEGs under PS is addressed. This control strategy determines the optimal input for a predefined reference output. In this case optimality is in the sense of the ”just-in-time” criterion, i.e., the input events are chosen as late as possible under the constraint that the output events do not occur later than required by the reference output.
Long-term safety and effectiveness of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation ablation using a porous tip contact force-sensing catheter from the SMART SF trial
Authors: Natale Andrea , Monir George , Patel Anshul M. , Fishel Robert S. , Marchlinski Francis E. , Delaughter M. Craig , Athill Charles A. , Melby Daniel P. , Gonzalez Mario D. , Hariharan Ramesh , Gidney Brett , Tan Tiffany , Chinitz Larry A.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The prospective, multicenter SMART SF trial demonstrated the acute safety and effectiveness of the 56-hole porous tip irrigated contact force (CF) catheter for drug-refractory paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) ablation with a low primary adverse event rate (2.5%), leading to FDA approval of the catheter. Here, we are reporting the long-term effectiveness and safety results that have not yet been reported.

Methods

Ablations were performed using the 56-hole porous tip irrigated CF catheter guided by the 3D mapping system stability module. The primary effectiveness endpoint was freedom from atrial tachyarrhythmia (including atrial fibrillation, atrial tachycardia, and/or atrial flutter), based on electrocardiographic data at 12 months. Atrial tachyarrhythmia recurrence occurring 3 months post procedure, acute procedural failures such as lack of entrance block confirmation of all PVs, and undergoing repeat procedure for atrial fibrillation in the evaluation period (91 to 365 days post the initial ablation procedure) were considered to be effectiveness failures.

Results

Seventy-eight patients (age 64.8 ± 9.7 years; male 52.6%; Caucasian 96.2%) participated in the 12-month effectiveness evaluation. Mean follow-up time was 373.5 ± 45.4 days. The Kaplan-Meier estimate of freedom from 12-month atrial tachyarrhythmia was 74.9%. Two procedure-related pericardial effusion events were reported at 92 and 180 days post procedure. There were no pulmonary vein stenosis complications or deaths reported through the 12-month follow-up period.

Conclusions

The SMART SF 12-month follow-up evaluation corroborates the early safety and effectiveness success previously reported for PAF ablation with STSF.
Physical Fighting and Leisure Activities among Norwegian Adolescents—Investigating Co-occurring Changes from 2015 to 2018
Authors: Frøyland Lars Roar , Bakken Anders , von Soest Tilmann
Published: May 2020

After many years of decline in violent behavior among adolescents in several Western countries, recent official statistics indicate a possible trend change. So far, knowledge on how this change is related to co-occurring changes in leisure time activities is limited. Using two cross-sectional surveys from Oslo, Norway, this study found substantial increases in the prevalence of physical fighting from 2015 (N = 23,381; 51.6% girls) to 2018 (N = 25,287; 50.8% girls) in junior and senior high school. The rise in fighting was related to co-occurring changes in several leisure activities, including increasing time spent unsupervised by adults, rising digital media use, and rising cannabis use. The study emphasizes the importance of considering leisure time activities when addressing adolescent misbehavior.
Gender Differences in Active Ageing: Findings from a New Individual-Level Index for European Countries
Authors: Steinmayr David , Weichselbaumer Doris , Winter-Ebmer Rudolf
Published: May 2020

We use data from wave 6 of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) to construct an individual-level index of active ageing for people aged between 50 and 90 years. We develop nine sub-indices for different dimensions, which are then aggregated to the final index. This individual-level index allows to analyze inequalities between age cohorts, dimensions, countries, and other individual-characteristics that are covered by SHARE. We focus on differences between the sexes. Overall women score lower than men with 54.9 index-points compared to 57.7 for men. We present gender differences in active ageing for some sub-populations as a showcase for this new individual-level index.
Why leave the teaching profession? A longitudinal approach to the prevalence and persistence of teacher turnover intentions
Authors: Räsänen Katariina , Pietarinen Janne , Pyhältö Kirsi , Soini Tiina , Väisänen Pertti
Published: May 2020

Teacher turnover has been recognized as a significant problem in the education worldwide. This study focuses on exploring reasons behind the turnover intentions, and persistence of such intentions in 5-year follow-up among Finnish teachers. Longitudinal survey data were collected from Finnish comprehensive school teachers in 2010 (T1n = 2310) and 2016 (T2n = 1450). The results showed that 50% of the teachers had turnover intentions. Turnover intentions were remarkably persistent, but the reasons for them varied significantly. Lack of professional commitment and factors related to the school system and workload were the main reasons for teacher turnover intention. The results suggest several factors that should be improved simultaneously in the teaching profession to increase teacher job satisfaction and retention.
Evolution of the Mammalian Ear: An Evolvability Hypothesis
Authors: Le Maître Anne , Grunstra Nicole D. S. , Pfaff Cathrin , Mitteroecker Philipp
Published: May 2020

Encapsulated within the temporal bone and comprising the smallest elements of the vertebrate skeleton, the ear is key to multiple senses: balance, posture control, gaze stabilization, and hearing. The transformation of the primary jaw joint into the mammalian ear ossicles is one of the most iconic transitions in vertebrate evolution, but the drivers of this complex evolutionary trajectory are not fully understood. We propose a novel hypothesis: The incorporation of the bones of the primary jaw joint into the middle ear has considerably increased the genetic, regulatory, and developmental complexity of the mammalian ear. This increase in the number of genetic and developmental factors may, in turn, have increased the evolutionary degrees of freedom for independent adaptations of the different functional ear units. The simpler ear anatomy in birds and reptiles may be less susceptible to developmental instabilities and disorders than in mammals but also more constrained in its evolution. Despite the tight spatial entanglement of functional ear components, the increased “evolvability” of the mammalian ear may have contributed to the evolutionary success and adaptive diversification of mammals in the vast diversity of ecological and behavioral niches observable today. A brief literature review revealed supporting evidence for this hypothesis.
Sleep and Sleep Disruption in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Boentert Matthias
Published: May 2020

Purpose of Review

In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), sleep disruption is frequently present and substantially adds to disease burden. This review aims to summarize current knowledge on causes, pathophysiology, and treatment of sleep disturbances in ALS.

Recent Findings

Motor neuron degeneration and muscle weakness may lead to muscle cramps, pain, spasticity, immobilization, restless legs, sleep-disordered breathing, and difficulties to clear secretions. Furthermore, existential fears and depression may promote insomnia. Sleep-disordered breathing, and nocturnal hypoventilation in particular, requires ventilatory support which meaningfully prolongs survival and improves health-related quality of life albeit respiratory failure is inevitable. Early indication for non-invasive ventilation can be achieved by inclusion of capnometry in diagnostic sleep studies.

Sleep disruption is extremely common in ALS and may arise from different etiologies. The absence of causative therapeutic options for ALS underlines the importance of symptomatic and palliative treatment strategies that acknowledge sleep-related complaints.
Factors Influencing Carbon Stocks and Accumulation Rates in Eelgrass Meadows Across New England, USA
Authors: Novak A. B. , Pelletier M. C. , Colarusso P. , Simpson J. , Gutierrez M. N. , Arias-Ortiz A. , Charpentier M. , Masque P. , Vella P.
Published: May 2020

Increasing the protection of coastal vegetated ecosystems has been suggested as one strategy to compensate for increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere as the capacity of these habitats to sequester and store carbon exceeds that of terrestrial habitats. Seagrasses are a group of foundation species that grow in shallow coastal and estuarine systems and have an exceptional ability to sequester and store large quantities of carbon in biomass and, particularly, in sediments. However, carbon stocks (Corgstocks) and carbon accumulation rates (Corgaccumulation) in seagrass meadows are highly variable both spatially and temporally, making it difficult to extrapolate this strategy to areas where information is lacking. In this study, Corgstocks and Corgaccumulation were determined at 11 eelgrass meadows across New England, representing a range of eutrophication and exposure conditions. In addition, the environmental factors and structural characteristics of meadows related to variation in Corgstocks were identified. The objectives were accomplished by assessing stable isotopes of δ13C and δ15N as well as %C and %N in plant tissues and sediments, measuring grain size and210Pb of sediment cores, and through assessing site exposure. Variability in Corgstocks in seagrass meadows is well predicted using commonly measured environmental variables such as grain size distribution. This study allows incorporation of data and insights for the northwest Atlantic, where few studies on carbon sequestration by seagrasses have been conducted.
Mapping the Shoreface of Coastal Sediment Compartments to Improve Shoreline Change Forecasts in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Kinsela M. A. , Hanslow D. J. , Carvalho R. C. , Linklater M. , Ingleton T. C. , Morris B. D. , Allen K. M. , Sutherland M. D. , Woodroffe C. D.
Published: May 2020

The potential response of shoreface depositional environments to sea level rise over the present century and beyond remains poorly understood. The shoreface is shaped by wave action across a sedimentary seabed and may aggrade or deflate depending on the balance between time-averaged wave energy and the availability and character of sediment, within the context of the inherited geological control. For embayed and accommodation-dominated coastal settings, where shoreline change is particularly sensitive to cross-shore sediment transport, whether the shoreface is a source or sink for coastal sediment during rising sea level may be a crucial determinant of future shoreline change. While simple equilibrium-based models (e.g. the Bruun Rule) are widely used in coastal risk planning practice to predict shoreline change due to sea level rise, the relevance of fundamental model assumptions to the shoreface depositional setting is often overlooked due to limited knowledge about the geomorphology of the nearshore seabed. We present high-resolution mapping of the shoreface-inner shelf in southeastern Australia from airborne lidar and vessel-based multibeam echosounder surveys, which reveals a more complex seabed than was previously known. The mapping data are used to interpret the extent, depositional character and morphodynamic state of the shoreface, by comparing the observed geomorphology to theoretical predictions from wave-driven sediment transport theory. The benefits of high-resolution seabed mapping for improving shoreline change predictions in practice are explored by comparing idealised shoreline change modelling based on our understanding of shoreface geomorphology and morphodynamics before and after the mapping exercise.
DNA barcoding of a stowaway reef coral in the international aquarium trade results in a new distribution record
Authors: Hoeksema Bert W. , Arrigoni Roberto
Published: May 2020

Dead corals and limestone boulders that act as substrate for live specimens of marine invertebrates and algae are sold as ‘live rock’ in the international aquarium trade. During a customs inspection of an airfreight shipment of ‘live rock’ at Schiphol Airport (Netherlands), 450 boulders imported from Indonesia were checked for the presence of undeclared organisms. During unpacking, about 50% of the boulders appeared to have small stony corals attached to them. Some of these corals belonged to a species unknown from Indonesia. Mitochondrial COI and nuclear ITS markers revealed 100% and 99.3% match with Polycyathus chaishanensis Lin et al., 2012, a species reported from tidal pools in Taiwan. This new distribution record suggests that despite their easy access, intertidal and shallow subtidal reef coral assemblages (< 1 m depth) may still be underexplored.
Sleep-Related Cognitive/Behavioral Predictors of Sleep Quality and Relapse in Individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Brooks Alyssa Todaro , Kazmi Narjis , Yang Li , Tuason Ralph Thadeus , Krumlauf Michael Charles , Wallen Gwenyth Reid
Published: May 2020

Background

Little is known about cognitive and behavioral predictors of sleep quality and relapse among individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Using the social cognitive theory (SCT), we assessed sleep-related behaviors and cognitions, sleep quality, and relapse to drinking among individuals with AUD transitioning from inpatient to outpatient settings.

Method

Individuals (n = 149) seeking treatment for AUD were recruited during their inpatient stay. Self-efficacy for sleep, dysfunctional beliefs about sleep, sleep-related behaviors, sleep quality, and relapse were assessed. Objective (actigraphy) assessment of sleep efficiency and duration was measured using actigraphy. Multiple logistic regression models tested whether self-reported sleep quality or sleep-related beliefs/behavior predicted relapse. Repeated measures linear mixed modeling tested whether there was a change over time in sleep quality as well as the relationships between self-efficacy, sleep-related beliefs, sleep behaviors, sleep quality, and relapse.

Results

In our sample, self-efficacy for sleep, dysfunctional beliefs about sleep, and sleep-related behavior were all significantly associated with both sleep quality and relapse. Controlling for pre-discharge sleep-related behaviors (SRBQ) and actigraphy-recorded average sleep time during the first week post-discharge, married participants had lower odds of relapse compared with non-married patients (p = 0.048, OR = 0.119, 95% CI 0.015–0.983). Patients with lower self-efficacy for sleep (SES) scores (p < 0.001) and higher CPRS anxiety scores (p < 0.001) had higher PSQI scores.

Conclusion

Our results highlight the importance of self-efficacy and dysfunctional beliefs about sleep as predictors of sleep quality and relapse among individuals with AUD and the utility of the SCT as a sleep research framework.
Aggregation and thermal properties of nanostructured montmorillonite covered with mixed adsorption layers of cationic polyacrylamide and hazardous lead(II) ions
Authors: Wiśniewska Małgorzata , Fijałkowska Gracja , Szewczuk-Karpisz Katarzyna , Sternik Dariusz
Published: May 2020

The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of nanostructured montmorillonite surface modification by the cationic polyacrylamide and the lead(II) ions on the thermal and aggregation properties of solid particles covered with mixed adsorption layers. The effects of cationic groups content in the polymeric macromolecules, the order of individual adsorbates addition, and lead(II) ions concentration were determined. Using spectrophotometry, potentiometric titration, microelectrophoresis, turbidimetry, DCS (Differential Centrifugal Sedimentation) and thermal analysis methods, the adsorption, electrokinetic, aggregation properties, as well as the thermal stability of studied montmorillonite—CT PAM—Pb(II) systems were established. It was shown that applied polymeric substance (soil flocculant) causes accumulation of lead(II) ions, which are hazardous at very low concentrations. Nevertheless, the chemical nature of these interactions may limit the bioavailability of this heavy metal for plants.
Software toolkits for architected materials, lightweighting, and more
Authors: Nickels Liz
Published: May 2020

A New York company has developed design software for metal additive manufacturing (AM) that it says can help engineers properly exploit the lightweighting and other possibilities of the technology.
Opening up while locking down: how an Irish independent sector mental health service is responding to the COVID-19 crisis
Authors: Fearon Paul
Published: May 2020

The COVID-19 pandemic poses a particular set of challenges for health services. Some of these are common across all services (e.g. strategies to minimise infections; timely testing for patients and staff; and sourcing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)) and some are specific to mental health services (e.g. how to access general medical services quickly; how to safely deliver a service that traditionally depends on intensive face to face contact; how to isolate someone who does not wish to do so; and how to source sufficient PPE in the face of competing demands for such equipment). This paper describes how St Patrick’s Mental Health Services (SPMHS) chose to address this unfolding and ever-changing crisis, how it developed its strategy early based on a clear set of objectives and how it adapted (and continues to adapt) to the constantly evolving COVID-19 landscape.
Updating Bayesian(s): A Critical Evaluation of Bayesian Process Tracing
Authors: Zaks Sherry
Published: May 2020

Given the increasing quantity and impressive placement of work on Bayesian process tracing, this approach has quickly become a frontier of qualitative research methods. Moreover, it has dominated the process-tracing modules at the Institute for Qualitative and Multi-Method Research (IQMR) and the American Political Science Association (APSA) meetings for over five years, rendering its impact even greater. Proponents of qualitative Bayesianism make a series of strong claims about its contributions and scope of inferential validity. Four claims stand out: (1) it enables causal inference from iterative research, (2) the sequence in which we evaluate evidence is irrelevant to inference, (3) it enables scholars to fully engage rival explanations, and (4) it prevents ad hoc hypothesizing and confirmation bias. Notwithstanding the stakes of these claims and breadth of traction this method has received, no one has systematically evaluated the promises, trade-offs, and limitations that accompany Bayesian process tracing. This article evaluates the extent to which the method lives up to the mission. Despite offering a useful framework for conducting iterative research, the current state of the method introduces more bias than it corrects for on numerous dimensions. The article concludes with an examination of the opportunity costs of learning Bayesian process tracing and a set of recommendations about how to push the field forward.
Multivariate ratio analysis and DNA markers reveal a new Australian species and three synonymies in eucalypt-gall-associatedMegastigmus(Hymenoptera: Megastigmidae)
Authors: Le Ngoc Hoan , Nahrung Helen F. , Morgan Jess A. T. , Lawson Simon A.
Published: May 2020

The genusMegastigmusDalman, 1820 (Hymenoptera: Megastigmidae) contains potential biocontrol agents of the invasive eucalypt galling chalcidLeptocybespp. (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), with several species reported in various parts of the world. Species discrimination is challenging due to intraspecific morphological variation, difficulty in measuring sizes of body parts, and the lack of information regarding the global distribution of parasiticMegastigmus. We used two species commonly associated withLeptocybein its native range to review taxonomic methods and determine the most reliable morphological characters in species delimitation. We examined size variation of body characters, and conducted species discrimination using multivariate ratio analysis, mitochondrial Cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) and nuclear 28S rDNA (28S) sequences. Morphological traits were effective in species delimitation yet revealed high variation in several characters employed in current keys. Knowledge generated on morphology and DNA justified the description of a new species,M. manonae,sp. n., the first record ofM. pretorianensisin Australia, and revised diagnostic characters forM. zvimendeli. Based on these diagnostic characters and molecular data, we synonymize three species (M. judikingae,syn. n., from Australia,M. sichuanensis,syn. n., from China andM. icipeensis,syn. n., from Kenya) withM. zvimendeli. Our findings highlight the importance of molecular markers in assisting taxonomic decision-making and the need for coordinated work in identifyingMegastigmusassociated withLeptocybespp.
Franco's Moroccans
Authors: Al Tuma Ali
Published: May 2020

Recent research into the Moroccan troops who fought in the Spanish Civil War has both drawn from and contributed to insights gained from new historiographical developments in the field of the Spanish conflict as well as other European twentieth-century conflicts. Studies examining the experiences and choices of low-level participants of the war, whether soldiers or civilians – on both the Francoist and republican sides – have increasingly shown that they were players in possession of a certain degree of agency, however limited. That agency allowed these low-level players, whether Spanish or Moroccan, to influence war events to a higher degree than previously thought possible, and has shown that mobilisation for and maintenance of the war effort depended on a certain mixture of coercion and negotiation, even within the more authoritarian Francoist camp. In the European context, the Moroccan participation in the 1936–9 war has its special characteristics, one of which is that its military significance weighed heavier than other colonial contributions to European battlefields between 1914 and 1945, and therefore the agency of Moroccans was more consequential. Nevertheless, it has much in common with other European experiences. A recent collaborative volume on British, French, Spanish and Dutch colonial armies in the first half of the twentieth century, Colonial Soldiers in Europe (2016), edited by Eric Storm and myself, has helped put the Moroccan–Spanish experience in European perspective. Similarities abound, not only in colonial soldiers’ experiences of fighting in foreign lands, but also between the various Western European attempts at controlling, i.e. limiting, the cultural and human consequences of this massive irruption of male warriors into the continent.
Quantitative cardiac magnetic resonance T2 imaging offers ability to non-invasively predict acute allograft rejection in children
Authors: Sethi Neeta , Doshi Ashish , Doshi Tina , Cross Russell , Cronin Ileen , Amin Elena , Kanter Joshua , Scheel Janet , Khan Sairah , Campbell-Washburn Adrienne , Olivieri Laura
Published: May 2020

Background:

Monitoring for acute allograft rejection improves outcomes after cardiac transplantation. Endomyocardial biopsy is the gold standard test defining rejection, but carries risk and has limitations. Cardiac magnetic resonance T2 mapping may be able to predict rejection in adults, but has not been studied in children. Our aim was to evaluate T2 mapping in identifying paediatric cardiac transplant patients with acute rejection.

Methods:

Eleven paediatric transplant patients presenting 18 times were prospectively enrolled for non-contrast cardiac magnetic resonance at 1.5 T followed by endomyocardial biopsy. Imaging included volumetry, flow, and T2 mapping. Regions of interest were manually selected on the T2 maps using the middle-third technique in the left ventricular septal and lateral wall in a short-axis and four-chamber slice. Mean and maximum T2 values were compared with Student’s t-tests analysis.

Results:

Five cases of acute rejection were identified in three patients, including two cases of grade 2R on biopsy and three cases of negative biopsy treated for clinical symptoms attributed to rejection (new arrhythmia, decreased exercise capacity). A monotonic trend between increasing T2 values and higher biopsy grades was observed: grade 0R T2 53.4 ± 3 ms, grade 1R T2 54.5 ms ± 3 ms, grade 2R T2 61.3 ± 1 ms. The five rejection cases had significantly higher mean T2 values compared to cases without rejection (58.3 ± 4 ms versus 53 ± 2 ms, p = 0.001).

Conclusions:

Cardiac magnetic resonance with quantitative T2 mapping may offer a non-invasive method for screening paediatric cardiac transplant patients for acute allograft rejection. More data are needed to understand the relationship between T2 and rejection in children.
Inequality of Educational Opportunity – The Role of Performance and Choice
Authors: Erikson Robert
Published: May 2020

Equality of opportunity is a central aim in the political agenda of many nations, and political leaders consequently speak about the importance of reducing differences in educational attainment between young persons from differing social origins. Such differences are apparent at two educational steps – the transition from compulsory school to upper secondary and at the transition from upper secondary school to tertiary institutions. Both steps have to be considered if the interest lies in attainment of university degrees, since the outcome at the first transition affects that at the second. Differences in educational attainment by parental origin appear through two separate mechanisms. Children from higher origins tend to perform better at school than other children, and consequently they more than others continue to higher educational levels. However, also among children who did perform equally well, children from more advantaged origins more often than other children choose to continue to higher and more academically oriented tracks. Children of immigrants tend to perform less well at school than native-born children, but given performance, they tend more than the native-born to choose to continue in academically oriented school tracks.
Perspectives from South African dietitians on infant and young child feeding regulations
Authors: Clarke Megan , Koen Nelene , du Plessis Lisanne
Published: May 2020

Objective:

This study aimed to determine the knowledge, perceptions and practices of dietitians in South Africa regarding the Regulations Relating to Foodstuffs for Infants and Young Children (R991).

Design:

A mixed methods, cross-sectional design was used.

Setting:

Quantitative data were collected using an online survey (n 282) and qualitative data by means of two focus group discussions (n 12).

Participants:

Participants were dietitians registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

Results:

Dietitians’ average knowledge score was 64·8 % ± 12·5. Those working in infant and young child feeding had a 5 % higher knowledge score (95 % CI 1·4, 8·6, P = 0·01). Perceptions towards the Regulations were generally positive, and the majority of practices were compliant. Positive perceptions seemed to correlate with compliant practices. The most frequently selected enabler to the implementation of the Regulations was ‘Increase in other initiatives which support, protect and promote breastfeeding’, and the most frequently selected barrier was ‘Lack of awareness of the Regulation among health care providers’. The major themes from the focus group discussions comprised: less knowledge among dietitians and mothers about products controlled under the Regulations, non-compliance of other health care providers, the dietitians’ role in support and enforcement, the discrepancy between practice in private and public sectors and a lack of enforcement.

Conclusions:

South Africa has taken a bold step in legislating the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk Substitutes and should upscale programmes to ensure consistent monitoring and enforcing of the Regulations.
Sensor Network Warns of Stealth Tsunamis
Authors: Fry Bill , McCurrach Sarah-Jayne , Gledhill Ken , Power William , Williams Mike , Angove Mike , Arcas Diego , Moore Chris
Published: May 2020

A next-generation network of seismic and wave sensors in the southwestern Pacific will warn coastal residents of an approaching tsunami before they see the wave.
The Role of Earth and Space Scientists During Pandemics
Authors: Florindo Fabio , McEntee Chris
Published: May 2020

Insights from Earth and space sciences are valuable for addressing the current global health emergency, and such societal challenges are best addressed by integrated and interdisciplinary research.
At-will chromatic dispersion by prescribing light trajectories with cascaded metasurfaces
Authors: McClung Andrew , Mansouree Mahdad , Arbabi Amir
Published: May 2020

Chromatic dispersion spatially separates white light into colours, producing rainbows and similar effects. Detrimental to imaging but essential to spectroscopy, chromatic dispersion is the result of material properties in refractive optics and is considered an inherent characteristic of diffractive devices such as gratings and flat lenses. Here, we present a fundamental relation connecting an optical system’s dispersion to the trajectories light takes through it and show that arbitrary control over dispersion may be achieved by prescribing specific trajectories, even in diffractive systems. Using cascaded metasurfaces (2D arrays of sub-micron scatterers) to direct light along predetermined trajectories, we present an achromatic twisted metalens and experimentally demonstrate beam deflectors with arbitrary dispersion. This new insight and design approach usher in a new class of optical systems with wide-ranging applications.
hnRNP H/F drive RNA G-quadruplex-mediated translation linked to genomic instability and therapy resistance in glioblastoma
Authors: Herviou Pauline , Le Bras Morgane , Dumas Leïla , Hieblot Corinne , Gilhodes Julia , Cioci Gianluca , Hugnot Jean-Philippe , Ameadan Alfred , Guillonneau François , Dassi Erik , Cammas Anne , Millevoi Stefania
Published: May 2020

RNA G-quadruplexes (RG4s) are four-stranded structures known to control mRNA translation of cancer relevant genes. RG4 formation is pervasive in vitro but not in cellulo, indicating the existence of poorly characterized molecular machinery that remodels RG4s and maintains them unfolded. Here, we performed a quantitative proteomic screen to identify cytosolic proteins that interact with a canonical RG4 in its folded and unfolded conformation. Our results identified hnRNP H/F as important components of the cytoplasmic machinery modulating the structural integrity of RG4s, revealed their function in RG4-mediated translation and uncovered the underlying molecular mechanism impacting the cellular stress response linked to the outcome of glioblastoma.
Assessing the origin of high-grade serous ovarian cancer using CRISPR-modification of mouse organoids
Authors: Lõhmussaar Kadi , Kopper Oded , Korving Jeroen , Begthel Harry , Vreuls Celien P. H. , van Es Johan H. , Clevers Hans
Published: May 2020

High-grade serous ovarian cancer (HG-SOC)—often referred to as a “silent killer”—is the most lethal gynecological malignancy. The fallopian tube (murine oviduct) and ovarian surface epithelium (OSE) are considered the main candidate tissues of origin of this cancer. However, the relative contribution of each tissue to HG-SOC is not yet clear. Here, we establish organoid-based tumor progression models of HG-SOC from murine oviductal and OSE tissues. We use CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing to introduce mutations into genes commonly found mutated in HG-SOC, such as Trp53, Brca1, Nf1 and Pten. Our results support the dual origin hypothesis of HG-SOC, as we demonstrate that both epithelia can give rise to ovarian tumors with high-grade pathology. However, the mutated oviductal organoids expand much faster in vitro and more readily form malignant tumors upon transplantation. Furthermore, in vitro drug testing reveals distinct lineage-dependent sensitivities to the common drugs used to treat HG-SOC in patients.
Collisional formation of top-shaped asteroids and implications for the origins of Ryugu and Bennu
Authors: Michel P. , Ballouz R.-L. , Barnouin O. S. , Jutzi M. , Walsh K. J. , May B. H. , Manzoni C. , Richardson D. C. , Schwartz S. R. , Sugita S. , Watanabe S. , Miyamoto H. , Hirabayashi M. , Bottke W. F. , Connolly H. C. , Yoshikawa M. , Lauretta D. S.
Published: May 2020

Asteroid shapes and hydration levels can serve as tracers of their history and origin. For instance, the asteroids (162173) Ryugu and (101955) Bennu have an oblate spheroidal shape with a pronounced equator, but contain different surface hydration levels. Here we show, through numerical simulations of large asteroid disruptions, that oblate spheroids, some of which have a pronounced equator defining a spinning top shape, can form directly through gravitational reaccumulation. We further show that rubble piles formed in a single disruption can have similar porosities but variable degrees of hydration. The direct formation of top shapes from single disruption alone can explain the relatively old crater-retention ages of the equatorial features of Ryugu and Bennu. Two separate parent-body disruptions are not necessarily required to explain their different hydration levels.
Multicenter dataset of multi-shell diffusion MRI in healthy traveling adults with identical settings
Authors: Tong Qiqi , He Hongjian , Gong Ting , Li Chen , Liang Peipeng , Qian Tianyi , Sun Yi , Ding Qiuping , Li Kuncheng , Zhong Jianhui
Published: May 2020

Multicenter diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has drawn great attention recently due to the expanding need for large-scale brain imaging studies, whereas the variability in MRI scanners and data acquisition tends to confound reliable individual-based analysis of diffusion measures. In addition, a growing number of multi-shell diffusion models have been shown with the potential to generate various estimates of physio-pathological information, yet their reliability and reproducibility in multicenter studies remain to be assessed. In this article, we describe a multi-shell diffusion dataset collected from three traveling subjects with identical acquisition settings in ten imaging centers. Both the scanner type and imaging protocol for anatomical and diffusion imaging were well controlled. This dataset is expected to replenish individual reproducible studies via multicenter collaboration by providing an open resource for advanced and novel microstructural and tractography modelling and quantification.
Author Correction: Preparation and antimicrobial activity of ZnO-NPs coated cotton/starch and their functionalized ZnO-Ag/cotton and Zn(II) curcumin/cotton materials
Authors: El-Nahhal Issa M. , Salem Jamil , Anbar Rawan , Kodeh Fawzi S. , Elmanama Abdelraouf
Published: May 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Mechanochemical defect engineering of HKUST-1 and impact of the resulting defects on carbon dioxide sorption and catalytic cyclopropanation
Authors: Steenhaut Timothy , Grégoire Nicolas , Barozzino-Consiglio Gabriella , Filinchuk Yaroslav , Hermans Sophie
Published: May 2020

Defective HKUST-1 was prepared by salt- or liquid-assisted grinding with post-synthetic treatments with alcohols. The defects identified as free carboxylic acid groups or reduced Cu(i) sites influence strongly gas storage and catalytic properties.
A nine-fold enhancement of visible-light photocatalytic hydrogen production of g-C3N4 with TCNQ by forming a conjugated structure
Authors: Wang Fengzhi , Lei Weisheng , Pan Xinhua , Lu Bin , Ye Zhizhen
Published: May 2020

The 5% TCNQ-C3N4 exhibits optimal photoactivity with good stability, which is ascribed to synergistic effects via intermolecular interaction between TCNQ and g-C3N4, with improved optical absorption and promoted separation of photoinduced carriers.
Development of a novel test for the identification of hereditary erythrocyte membrane defects by TGA/Chemometrics
Authors: Materazzi Stefano , Caprari Patrizia , Gullifa Giuseppina , Massimi Sara , Carcassi Elena , Risoluti Roberta
Published: May 2020

TGA/Chemometric test provides a rapid and effective tool to perform the diagnosis of hereditary spherocytosis and hereditary ellyptocytosis in less than one hour using 30 μl of whole blood.
New barbituric acid derivatives for data encryption and decryption based on the mechanochromic fluorescence effect
Authors: Zhang Hanjun , Xu Zhen , Tao Furong , Li Yan , Cui Yuezhi , Li Xuechen
Published: May 2020

CB-Ph and CB-Me have similar color and fluorescence properties, while they exhibit specific differences under the same stimulus. Based on the unique optical properties of CB-Ph and CB-Me, a new data encryption–decryption technology is developed.
Biomimetic hydrogels with spatial- and temporal-controlled chemical cues for tissue engineering
Authors: He Weilue , Reaume Max , Hennenfent Maureen , Lee Bruce P. , Rajachar Rupak
Published: May 2020

Biomimetic hydrogels work as tissue engineering scaffolds by recapitulating chemical cues and mimicking spatiotemporal characteristics of the native extracellular matrix.
Cocaine analogue conjugated magnetic nanoparticles for labeling and imaging dopaminergic neurons
Authors: Jeon Mike , Lin Guanyou , Stephen Zachary R. , Vechey Josey E. , Singh Manjot , Revia Richard , Newman Amy Hauck , Martinez Diana , Zhang Miqin
Published: May 2020

An iron oxide nanoparticle conjugated with a cocaine analogue exhibits small size and long-term stability with the ability to target dopamine transporter-expressing neurons and provides excellent contrast enhancement under MRI, demonstrating great potential for neuroimaging.
All-in-one microfluidic assembly of insulin-loaded pH-responsive nano-in-microparticles for oral insulin delivery
Authors: Costa Clarinda , Liu Zehua , Martins João P. , Correia Alexandra , Figueiredo Patrícia , Rahikkala Antti , Li Wei , Seitsonen Jani , Ruokolainen Janne , Hirvonen Sami-Pekka , Aguiar-Ricardo Ana , Corvo M. Luísa , Santos Hélder A.
Published: May 2020

Here, a continuous two-step glass-capillary microfluidic technique to produce a multistage oral insulin delivery system is reported. This system represents a promising alternative for the common protein/peptide-loaded liposome formulations.
Chirality induction on non-chiral dye-linked polysilsesquioxane in nanohelical structures
Authors: Ryu Naoya , Kawaguchi Tsutomu , Yanagita Hiroshi , Okazaki Yutaka , Buffeteau Thierry , Yoshida Kyohei , Shirosaki Tomohiro , Nagaoka Shoji , Takafuji Makoto , Ihara Hirotaka , Oda Reiko
Published: May 2020

Chirally arranged organic dye-linked polysilsesquioxane was prepared, through a sol–gel transcription using its non-chiral precursor with a chiral supramolecular template, and its chiroptical properties were investigated.
Reductive umpolung for asymmetric synthesis of chiral α-allenic alcohols
Authors: Kondo Yui , Nagao Kazunori , Ohmiya Hirohisa
Published: May 2020

Copper-catalyzed reductive umpolung provides a new synthetic route to chiral α-allenic alcohols.
On the interface crystallography of heat induced self-welded TiO2 nanofibers grown by oriented attachment
Authors: Shi Xiaokai , Ma Juanjuan , Zheng Lijian , Yue Xiuping , Liu Lijun
Published: May 2020

The TiO2 (B)–TiO2 (B), TiO2 (B)–anatase and anatase–anatase self-welded nanofibers have been investigated by TEM. The different exposed facets lead to the formation of different interface structures during the oriented attachment growth process.
Enormous enhancement of p-orbital magnetism and band gap in the lightly doped carbyne
Authors: Wong C. H. , Lortz R. , Zatsepin A. F.
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a path to tailor adapted magnetic and electronic properties in carbyne.
Heteroatom-participated lignin cleavage to functionalized aromatics
Authors: Li Hongji , Bunrit Anon , Li Ning , Wang Feng
Published: May 2020

Heteroatom-containing reagents triggered the catalytic cleavage of lignin linkages and functionalization of products simultaneously.
Conformationally adaptive macrocycles with flipping aromatic sidewalls
Authors: Wang Xiaoping , Jia Fei , Yang Liu-Pan , Zhou Hang , Jiang Wei
Published: May 2020

Conformationally adaptive macrocycles possess multiple well-defined conformations through quickly flipping their aromatic sidewalls.
Effect of Sn-self diffusion via H2 treatment on low temperature activation of hematite photoanodes
Authors: Ma Haiqing , Kwon Jeong An , Mahadik Mahadeo A. , Kim Sarang , Lee Hyun Hwi , Choi Sun Hee , Chae Weon-Sik , Lim Dong-Hee , Jang Jum Suk
Published: May 2020

A simple approach of lowering the activation temperature for hematite photoanode was developed. H2 treatment and air quenching allows Sn4+ diffusion from FTO to hematite which exhibited the photocurrent density of 1.17 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE.
Exploring the artificially induced nonstoichiometric effect of Li2RuO3 as a reactive promoter on electrocatalytic behavior
Authors: Jang Haeseong , Jin Wooyoung , Nam Gyutae , Yoo Youngshin , Jeon Jeong Suk , Park Joohyuk , Kim Min Gyu , Cho Jaephil
Published: May 2020

We have explored the independent effect of mixed valence and oxygen defects on the catalytic origin by artificially engineering the stoichiometry of Li2RuO3.