bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural basis for the coordination of cell division with the synthesis of the bacterial cell envelope
Authors: Booth Simon , Lewis Richard J.
Published: September 2019

Bacteria are surrounded by a complex cell envelope made up of one or two membranes supplemented with a layer of peptidoglycan (PG). The envelope is responsible for the protection of bacteria against lysis in their oft‐unpredictable environments and it contributes to cell integrity, morphology, signaling, nutrient/small‐molecule transport, and, in the case of pathogenic bacteria, host–pathogen interactions and virulence. The cell envelope requires considerable remodeling during cell division in order to produce genetically identical progeny. Several proteinaceous machines are responsible for the homeostasis of the cell envelope and their activities must be kept coordinated in order to ensure the remodeling of the envelope is temporally and spatially regulated correctly during multiple cycles of cell division and growth. This review aims to highlight the complexity of the components of the cell envelope, but focusses specifically on the molecular apparatuses involved in the synthesis of the PG wall, and the degree of cross talk necessary between the cell division and the cell wall remodeling machineries to coordinate PG remodeling during division. The current understanding of many of the proteins discussed here has relied on structural studies, and this review concentrates particularly on this structural work.
Engineering chromosome region maintenance 1 fragments that bind to nuclear export signals
Authors: Lei Yuqin , An Qi , Zhang Yuqing , Luo Ping , Luo Youfu , Shen Xiaofei , Jia Da , Sun Qingxiang
Published: September 2019

Chromosome region maintenance 1 (CRM1) exports nuclear export signal (NES) containing cargos from nucleus to cytoplasm and plays critical roles in cancer and viral infections. Biochemical and biophysical studies on this protein were often obstructed by its low purification yield and stability. With the help of PROSS server and NES protection strategy, we successfully designed three small fragments of CRM1, each made of four HEAT repeats and capable of binding to NESs in the absence of RanGTP. One of the fragments, C7, showed dramatically improved purification yield, thermostability, mechanostability, and resistance to protease digestion. We showed by isothermal titration that the protein kinase inhibitor NES binds to C7 at 1.18 μM affinity. Direct binding to C7 by several reported CRM1 inhibitors derived from plants were verified using pull‐down assays. These fragments might be useful for the development of CRM1 inhibitors towards treatment of related diseases. The strategy applied here might help to tackle similar problems encountered in different fields.
Assimilation of satellite data in numerical weather prediction. Part I: The early years
Authors: Eyre J. R. , English S. J. , Forsythe M.
Published: September 2019

Developments in the assimilation of satellite data in numerical weather prediction (NWP), from the first experiments in the late 1960s to the present day, are presented in a two‐part review article. This first part reviews the early years, up to about the year 2000. It includes summaries of the relevant satellite remote sensing technologies, the theoretical and practical challenges faced when assimilating their data within NWP systems, and the impacts on forecast skill. An important part of this story concerns developments in the assimilation of information on atmospheric temperature and humidity provided by data from passive infrared and microwave radiometers. Following early successes with the assimilation of retrieved temperature profiles, there followed a problematic period, as other aspects of NWP systems improved and the impacts of satellite sounding data declined. Positive impacts were re‐established in the 1990s through moves towards more direct assimilation of radiance information. Another important theme concerns developments in the assimilation of wind information via atmospheric motion vectors, which underwent a series of improvements during these years. Additional contributions were provided by information on ocean surface wind from scatterometers. Some contributions from other technologies during this period are also summarised.
High Spatial Resolution Mapping of Localized Surface Plasmon Resonances in Single Gallium Nanoparticles
Authors: de la Mata María , Catalán‐Gómez Sergio , Nucciarelli Flavio , Pau José L. , Molina Sergio I.
Published: September 2019

Plasmonics has emerged as an attractive field driving the development of optical systems in order to control and exploit light–matter interactions. The increasing interest around plasmonic systems is pushing the research of alternative plasmonic materials, spreading the operability range from IR to UV. Within this context, gallium appears as an ideal candidate, potentially active within a broad spectral range (UV–VIS–IR), whose optical properties are scarcely reported. Importantly, the smart design of active plasmonic materials requires their characterization at high spatial and spectral resolution to access the optical fingerprint of individual nanostructures, attainable by transmission electron microscopy techniques (i.e., by means of electron energy‐loss spectroscopy, EELS). Therefore, the optical response of individual Ga nanoparticles (NPs) by means of EELS measurements is analyzed, in order to spread the understanding of the plasmonic response of Ga NPs. The results show that single Ga NPs may support several plasmon modes, whose nature is extensively discussed.
Shock Exfoliation of Graphene Fluoride in Microwave
Authors: Wu Sicheng , Mo Jingxin , Zeng Yachao , Wang Yuan , Rawal Aditya , Scott Jason , Su Zhen , Ren Wenhao , Chen Sheng , Wang Kaixuan , Chen Wei , Zhang Yongzhi , Zhao Chuan , Chen Xianjue
Published: September 2019

An unprecedented microwave‐based strategy is developed to facilitate solid‐phase, instantaneous delamination and decomposition of graphite fluoride (GF) into few‐layer, partially fluorinated graphene. The shock reaction occurs (and completes in few seconds) under microwave irradiation upon exposing GF to either “microwave‐induced plasma” generated in vacuum or “catalyst effect” caused by intense sparking of graphite at ambient conditions. A detailed analysis of the structural and compositional transformations in these processes indicates that the GF experiences considerable exfoliation and defluorination, during which sp2‐bonded carbon is partially recovered despite significant structural defects being introduced. The exfoliated fluorinated graphene shows excellent electrochemical performance as anode materials in potassium ion batteries and as catalysts for the conversion of O2 to H2O2. This simple and scalable method requires minimal energy input and does not involve the use of other chemicals, which is attractive for extensive research in fluorine‐containing graphene and its derivatives in laboratories and industrial applications.
Educational Development Between Faculty and Administration
Authors: Broscheid Andreas
Published: September 2019

This chapter employs Identity Theory to explore the professional identities of educational developers, arguing that it is important to pay attention to the different saliences, or weights, that developers attach to the faculty and administrative sides of their identities.
The efficacy and safety of nutrient supplements in the treatment of mental disorders: a meta‐review of meta‐analyses of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Firth Joseph , Teasdale Scott B. , Allott Kelly , Siskind Dan , Marx Wolfgang , Cotter Jack , Veronese Nicola , Schuch Felipe , Smith Lee , Solmi Marco , Carvalho André F. , Vancampfort Davy , Berk Michael , Stubbs Brendon , Sarris Jerome
Published: September 2019

The role of nutrition in mental health is becoming increasingly acknowledged. Along with dietary intake, nutrition can also be obtained from “nutrient supplements”, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids and pre/probiotic supplements. Recently, a large number of meta‐analyses have emerged examining nutrient supplements in the treatment of mental disorders. To produce a meta‐review of this top‐tier evidence, we identified, synthesized and appraised all meta‐analyses of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reporting on the efficacy and safety of nutrient supplements in common and severe mental disorders. Our systematic search identified 33 meta‐analyses of placebo‐controlled RCTs, with primary analyses including outcome data from 10,951 individuals. The strongest evidence was found for PUFAs (particularly as eicosapentaenoic acid) as an adjunctive treatment for depression. More nascent evidence suggested that PUFAs may also be beneficial for attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder, whereas there was no evidence for schizophrenia. Folate‐based supplements were widely researched as adjunctive treatments for depression and schizophrenia, with positive effects from RCTs of high‐dose methylfolate in major depressive disorder. There was emergent evidence for N‐acetylcysteine as a useful adjunctive treatment in mood disorders and schizophrenia. All nutrient supplements had good safety profiles, with no evidence of serious adverse effects or contraindications with psychiatric medications. In conclusion, clinicians should be informed of the nutrient supplements with established efficacy for certain conditions (such as eicosapentaenoic acid in depression), but also made aware of those currently lacking evidentiary support. Future research should aim to determine which individuals may benefit most from evidence‐based supplements, to further elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
The assessment and management of insomnia: an update
Authors: Krystal Andrew D. , Prather Aric A. , Ashbrook Liza H.
Published: September 2019

Insomnia poses significant challenges to public health. It is a common condition associated with marked impairment in function and quality of life, psychiatric and physical morbidity, and accidents. As such, it is important that effective treatment is provided in clinical practice. To this end, this paper reviews critical aspects of the assessment of insomnia and the available treatment options. These options include both non‐medication treatments, most notably cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia, and a variety of pharmacologic therapies such as benzodiazepines, “z‐drugs”, melatonin receptor agonists, selective histamine H1 antagonists, orexin antagonists, antidepressants, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, and non‐selective antihistamines. A review of the available research indicates that rigorous double‐blind, randomized, controlled trials are lacking for some of the most commonly administered insomnia therapies. However, there are an array of interventions which have been demonstrated to have therapeutic effects in insomnia in trials with the above features, and whose risk/benefit profiles have been well characterized. These interventions can form the basis for systematic, evidence‐based treatment of insomnia in clinical practice. We review this evidence base and highlight areas where more studies are needed, with the aim of providing a resource for improving the clinical management of the many patients with insomnia.
Clamshell-Thorakotomie nach singulärem Messerstich in die „cardiac box“
Authors: Popp Erik , Kühn Angelika , Lutz Oliver , Leowardi Christine , Schmack Bastian
Published: September 2019

Fallberichte zur präklinischen Durchführung einer Clamshell-Thorakotomie in Deutschland sind bisher rar, wenngleich diese Notfallprozedur in internationalen Leitlinien zur Behandlung des traumatischen Kreislaufstillstands enthalten ist. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird die Versorgung eines erwachsenen Patienten nach einem Messerstich in den als „cardiac box“ bezeichneten Bereich des Thorax dargestellt. Konventionelle Maßnahmen der kardiopulmonalen Reanimation wie Atemwegssicherung, Beatmung und Thoraxkompression führten nicht zur Wiederherstellung des Kreislaufs („return of spontaneous circulation“, ROSC). Nachdem auch nach Ausschluss eines Spannungspneumothorax mithilfe einer Minithorakotomie kein dauerhafter ROSC erzeugt werden konnte, wurde entsprechend der Leitlinienempfehlung eine Thorakotomie erwogen und vor Ort durchgeführt. Nach dem Ausräumen einer Perikardtamponade und anschließendem ROSC wurde eine stark blutende Myokardverletzung übernäht und der Patient in den Schockraum des Universitätsklinikum Heidelberg gebracht. Dort erfolgten eine Notfalltransfusion und konsekutiv die definitive Versorgung der Verletzung im kardiochirurgischen OP. Der Patient verstarb am Folgetag an den Folgen eines hypoxischen Hirnödems im Beisein seiner Angehörigen.
Convex approximations for two-stage mixed-integer mean-risk recourse models with conditional value-at-risk
Authors: van Beesten E. Ruben , Romeijnders Ward
Published: September 2019

In traditional two-stage mixed-integer recourse models, the expected value of the total costs is minimized. In order to address risk-averse attitudes of decision makers, we consider a weighted mean-risk objective instead. Conditional value-at-risk is used as our risk measure. Integrality conditions on decision variables make the model non-convex and hence, hard to solve. To tackle this problem, we derive convex approximation models and corresponding error bounds, that depend on the total variations of the density functions of the random right-hand side variables in the model. We show that the error bounds converge to zero if these total variations go to zero. In addition, for the special cases of totally unimodular and simple integer recourse models we derive sharper error bounds.
Inefficiencies in a healthcare system with a regulatory split of power: a spatial panel data analysis of avoidable hospitalisations in Austria
Authors: Renner Anna-Theresa
Published: September 2019

Despite generous universal social health insurance with little formal restrictions of outpatient utilisation, Austria exhibits high rates of avoidable hospitalisations, which indicate the inefficient provision of primary healthcare and might be a consequence of the strict regulatory split between the Austrian inpatient and outpatient sector. This paper exploits the considerable regional variations in acute and chronic avoidable hospitalisations in Austria to investigate whether those inefficiencies in primary care are rather related to regional healthcare supply or to population characteristics. To explicitly account for inter-regional dependencies, spatial panel data methods are applied to a comprehensive administrative dataset of all hospitalisations from 2008 to 2013 in the 117 Austrian districts. The initial selection of relevant covariates is based on Bayesian model averaging. The results of the analysis show that supply-side variables, such as the number of general practitioners, are significantly associated with decreased chronic and acute avoidable hospitalisations, whereas characteristics of the regional population, such as the share of population with university education or long-term unemployed, are less relevant. Furthermore, the spatial error term indicates that there are significant spatial dependencies between unobserved characteristics, such as practice style or patients’ utilization behaviour. Not accounting for those would result in omitted variable bias.
Primary cilia have a length-dependent persistence length
Authors: Flaherty Justin , Feng Zhe , Peng Zhangli , Young Y.-N. , Resnick Andrew
Published: September 2019

The fluctuating position of an optically trapped cilium tip under untreated and Taxol-treated conditions was used to characterize mechanical properties of the cilium axoneme and its basal body by combining experimental, analytical, and computational tools. We provide, for the first time, evidence that the persistence length of a ciliary axoneme is length-dependent; longer cilia are stiffer than shorter cilia. We demonstrate that this apparent length dependence can be understood by a combination of modeling axonemal microtubules as anisotropic elastic shells and including actomyosin-driven stochastic basal body motion. Our results also demonstrate the possibility of using observable ciliary dynamics to probe interior cytoskeletal dynamics. It is hoped that our improved characterization of cilia will result in deeper understanding of the biological function of cellular flow sensing by this organelle.
Sextual Intercourse: Considering Social–Cognitive Predictors and Subsequent Outcomes of Sexting Behavior in Adulthood
Authors: Brodie Zara P. , Wilson Claire , Scott Graham G.
Published: September 2019

The purpose of this study was to identify specific social–cognitive factors that may influence the likelihood of engaging in sexting, and potential positive and negative outcomes of such behaviors, in adults. We asked 244 adult participants (64.5% women) to complete a set of online measures reflecting sexting engagement, social–cognitive factors (definitions, differential association, differential reinforcement, and imitation), and outcomes of sexting behavior (risky sexual behavior appraisal, sexual satisfaction, and relationship satisfaction). Results showed that 77.6% of our sample had sexted. Sexting in the context of a romantic relationship was predicted by differential reinforcement and friend imitation, while positive definitions of sexting alone predicted sexting someone outside the context of a romantic relationship. This indicates that motivations for sexting engagement may be context specific in adulthood. Those who had sexted demonstrated significantly higher sexual satisfaction than those who had never sexted. However, sexting outside of a romantic relationship predicted reduced perceived risk and heightened perceived benefit of engaging in real-life risky sexual behaviors. This suggests there may be both positive and negative implications of sexting engagement in adulthood.
A theoretical basis for the equivalence between physical and economic climate metrics and implications for the choice of Global Warming Potential time horizon
Authors: Mallapragada Dharik S. , Mignone Bryan K.
Published: September 2019

The global warming potential (GWP) is widely used in policy analysis, national greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting, and technology life cycle assessment (LCA) to compare the impact of non-CO2 GHG emissions to the impact of CO2 emissions. While the GWP is simple and versatile, different views about the appropriate choice of time horizon—and the factors that affect that choice—can impede decision-making. If the GWP is viewed as an approximation to a climate metric that more directly measures economic impact—the global damage potential (GDP)—then the time horizon may be viewed as a proxy for the discount rate. However, the validity of this equivalence rests on the theoretical basis used to equate the two metrics. In this paper, we develop a new theoretical basis for relating the GWP time horizon and the economic discount rate that avoids the most restrictive assumptions of prior studies, such as an assumed linear relationship between economic damages and temperature. We validate this approach with an extensive set of numerical experiments using an up-to-date climate emulator that represents state-dependent climate-carbon cycle feedbacks. The numerical results largely confirm the theoretical finding that, under certain reasonable assumptions, time horizons in the GWP of 100 years and 20 years are most consistent with discount rates of approximately 3% and 7% (or greater), respectively.
Dual Time-Stepping Using Second Derivatives
Authors: Nordström Jan , Ruggiu Andrea A.
Published: September 2019

We present a modified formulation of the dual time-stepping technique which makes use of two derivatives in pseudo-time. This new technique retains and improves the convergence properties to the stationary solution. When compared with the conventional dual time-stepping, the method with two derivatives reduces the stiffness of the problem and requires fewer iterations for full convergence to steady-state. In the current formulation, these positive effects require that an approximation of the square root of the spatial operator is available and inexpensive.
Whole-body cryostimulation impact on blood serum thermal denaturation profiles of cross-country skiers
Authors: Duch Klaudia , Michnik Anna , Pokora Ilona , Sadowska-Krępa Ewa , Kiełboń Agnieszka
Published: September 2019

Blood plasma and serum are important diagnostic materials as they clearly reflect an individual’s metabolism. The study has evaluated the effect of whole-body cryostimulation (WBC) on the blood serum of professional cross-country skiers. The experiment involved eight athletes (two women and six men) who underwent a series of ten WBC treatments. Aqueous solutions of human blood serum samples before WBC procedures, after one treatment and after a series of ten treatments were measured by means of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), a relatively novel diagnostic tool. DSC results showed rather little impact of cryostimulation on heat capacity changes accompanying the process of thermal denaturation of blood serum proteins in elite athletes. However, the statistically significant reduction in the intensity of the serum denaturation transition in its low temperature range has been observed after ten WBC treatments. The results have been interpreted by changes in the serum proteome profile, notably in the ratio of ligated to unligated albumin molecules. As a side result, the relationships between the relative change in body fat mass after ten WBC treatments and the levels of alpha2-globulins and beta2-globulins fractions have been found.
A New Approach to the Study of Tolerance: Conceptualizing and Measuring Acceptance, Respect, and Appreciation of Difference
Authors: Hjerm Mikael , Eger Maureen A. , Bohman Andrea , Fors Connolly Filip
Published: September 2019

Previous empirical research on tolerance suffers from a number of shortcomings, the most serious being the conceptual and operational conflation of (in)tolerance and prejudice. We design research to remedy this. First, we contribute to the literature by advancing research that distinguishes analytically between the two phenomena. We conceptualize tolerance as a value orientation towards difference. This definition—which is abstract and does not capture attitudes towards specific out-groups, ideas, or behaviors—allows for the analysis of tolerance within and between societies. Second, we improve the measurement of tolerance by developing survey items that are consistent with this conceptualization. We administer two surveys, one national (Sweden) and one cross-national (Australia, Denmark, Great Britain, Sweden, and the United States). Results from structural equation models show that tolerance is best understood as a three-dimensional concept, which includes acceptance of, respect for, and appreciation of difference. Analyses show that measures of tolerance have metric invariance across countries, and additional tests demonstrate convergent and discriminant validity. We also assess tolerance’s relationship to prejudice and find that only an appreciation of difference has the potential to reduce prejudice. We conclude that it is not only possible to measure tolerance in a way that is distinct from prejudice but also necessary if we are to understand the causes and consequences of tolerance.
Vergleichbarkeit der naturwissenschaftlichen Kompetenz in der neunten Klasse im Nationalen Bildungspanel und im IQB-Ländervergleich 2012
Authors: Wagner Helene , Hahn Inga , Schöps Katrin , Mahler Nicole , Köller Olaf
Published: September 2019

Verschiedene Schulleistungsstudien in Deutschland messen die Kompetenz von Schülerinnen und Schülern in den Naturwissenschaften am Ende der Sekundarstufe I, wie z. B. der IQB-Ländervergleich (LV; neuerdings IQB-Bildungstrend) und das Nationale Bildungspanel (NEPS). Die vorliegende Untersuchung beschäftigt sich mit der Überprüfung der dimensionalen Äquivalenz und der Skalenäquivalenz der Testwerte von NEPS und dem LV mit dem Ziel, die Skalen beider Studien miteinander zu verlinken. Zu diesem Zweck wurde eine Linking-Studie durchgeführt, in der 678 Schülerinnen und Schüler in einem Single-Group-Design die Aufgaben aus beiden Studien bearbeitet haben. Die Analysen zeigten eine hohe Vergleichbarkeit der NEPS- und LV-Testinstrumente hinsichtlich der faktoriellen Struktur der Daten sowie der Verteilung von Kompetenzwerten. Das Linking erfolgte mittels Equipercentile Equating und zeigte eine hohe Übereinstimmung der Testwertverteilung beider Studien sowie der Verteilung der Personen auf die Kompetenzstufen des LV.
Inconsistent classification of unexplained sudden deaths in infants and children hinders surveillance, prevention and research: recommendations from The 3rd International Congress on Sudden Infant and Child Death
Authors:   The 3rd International Congress on Sudden Infant and Child Death, Goldstein Richard D. , Blair Peter S. , Sens Mary Ann , Shapiro-Mendoza Carrie K. , Krous Henry F. , Rognum Torleiv O. , Moon Rachel Y.
Published: September 2019

This report details the proceedings and conclusions from the 3rd International Congress on Unexplained Deaths in Infants and Children, held November 26–27, 2018 at the Radcliffe Institute at Harvard University. The Congress was motivated by the increasing rejection of the diagnosis Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) in the medical examiner community, leading to falsely depressed reported SIDS rates and undermining the validity and reliability of the diagnosis, which remains a leading cause of infant and child mortality. We describe the diagnostic shift away from SIDS and the practical issues contributing to it. The Congress was attended by major figures and opinion leaders in this area from countries significantly engaged in this problem. Four categories (International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-11 categories of MH11, MH12, MH14, PB00-PB0Z) were recommended for classification, and explicit definitions and guidance were provided for death certifiers. SIDS was reframed as unexplained sudden death in infancy or SIDS/MH11 to emphasize that either term signifies the lack of explanation following a rigorous investigation. A distinct category for children over the age of 1 was recommended (MH12). Definitions and exclusions were provided for the alternative categories of accidental asphyxia and undetermined. As recommended, unexplained sudden death in infancy or SIDS on a death certificate will code a unique, trackable entity, accurately reflecting the inability to determine a definitive explanation, while satisfying surveillance needs and reliable identification for research efforts. The conclusions will be submitted to the World Health Organization for inclusion in the upcoming ICD-11.
Odontonema (Acanthaceae), new to Peru
Authors: Wood John R. I.
Published: September 2019

A new species, Odontonema peruvianum J.R.I.Wood is described and illustrated. This represents the most southerly extension in the range of the genus and the first confirmed record of its occurrence as a native in Peru.
Two new species of Justicia (Acanthaceae) from northern Thailand
Authors: Rueangsawang Kanokorn , Chantaranothai Pranom , Simpson David A.
Published: September 2019

Two new species, Justicia flavescens and J. vasculosoides are described and illustrated from northern Thailand. Both species have restricted distributions. The conservation status of each species is assessed.
Agroforestry delivers a win-win solution for ecosystem services in sub-Saharan Africa. A meta-analysis
Authors: Kuyah Shem , Whitney Cory W. , Jonsson Mattias , Sileshi Gudeta W. , Öborn Ingrid , Muthuri Catherine W. , Luedeling Eike
Published: September 2019

Agricultural landscapes are increasingly being managed with the aim of enhancing the provisioning of multiple ecosystem services and sustainability of production systems. However, agricultural management that maximizes provisioning ecosystem services can often reduce both regulating and maintenance services. We hypothesized that agroforestry reduces trade-offs between provisioning and regulating/maintenance services. We conducted a quantitative synthesis of studies carried out in sub-Saharan Africa focusing on crop yield (as an indicator of provisioning services), soil fertility, erosion control, and water regulation (as indicators of regulating/maintenance services). A total of 1106 observations were extracted from 126 peer-reviewed publications that fulfilled the selection criteria for meta-analysis of studies comparing agroforestry and non-agroforestry practices (hereafter control) in sub-Saharan Africa. Across ecological conditions, agroforestry significantly increased crop yield, total soil nitrogen, soil organic carbon, and available phosphorus compared to the control. Agroforestry practices also reduced runoff and soil loss and improved infiltration rates and soil moisture content. No significant differences were detected between the different ecological conditions, management regimes, and types of woody perennials for any of the ecosystem services. Main trade-offs included low available phosphorus and low soil moisture against higher crop yield. This is the first meta-analysis that shows that, on average, agroforestry systems in sub-Saharan Africa increase crop yield while maintaining delivery of regulating/maintenance ecosystem services. We also demonstrate how woody perennials have been managed in agricultural landscapes to provide multiple ecosystem services without sacrificing crop productivity. This is important in rural livelihoods where the range of ecosystem services conveys benefits in terms of food security and resilience to environmental shocks.
Detection of overtone and combined peaks using Mn/Cu helical star-shaped (pine-tree-like) sculptured thin films in surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Babaei Reza , Goli-Haghighi Shokoofe , Savaloni Hadi
Published: September 2019

Mn helical star-shaped (pine-tree-like) nano-sculptured thin films with three-, four-and fivefold symmetry on copper substrates were produced using oblique angle deposition method in conjunction with rotation of sample holder at certain angles. Raman spectroscopy of the samples which were subjected to impregnation by 4,4′-bipyridine (C10H8N2) solution was carried out by 632.8 nm wavelength laser. The analysis of the Raman spectra showed enhancement for the 4,4′-bipyridine main bands (1592 and 1297 cm−1) belonging to the C=C stretching mode, aromatic ring stretching ring and in-plane ring mode of 4,4′-bipyridine, same as results obtained for Ag nano-structures. In addition, overtone and combined peaks are detected that may be related to the particular sculptured structure of the thin films fabricated in this work and the laser wavelength used for Raman spectroscopy. UV–Vis (absorption mode) spectra showed consistent observations with the SERS results leading to important role of surface electromagnetic selection rule in intensification of SERS, in addition pointing out the importance of the effect of the size of hot spots on the frequency of the localized surface plasmonic oscillations.
The Effect of Nordic Hamstring Exercise Intervention Volume on Eccentric Strength and Muscle Architecture Adaptations: A Systematic Review and Meta-analyses
Authors: Cuthbert Matthew , Ripley Nicholas , McMahon John J. , Evans Martin , Haff G. Gregory , Comfort Paul
Published: September 2019

Background

Although performance of the Nordic hamstring exercise (NHE) has been shown to elicit adaptations that may reduce hamstring strain injury (HSI) risk and occurrence, compliance in NHE interventions in professional soccer teams is low despite a high occurrence of HSI in soccer. A possible reason for low compliance is the high dosages prescribed within the recommended interventions. The aim of this review was to investigate the effect of NHE-training volume on eccentric hamstring strength and biceps femoris fascicle length adaptations.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using the SPORTDiscus, Ovid, and PubMed databases. A total of 293 studies were identified prior to application of the following inclusion criteria: (1) a minimum of 4 weeks of NHE training was completed; (2) mean ± standard deviation (SD) pre- and post-intervention were provided for the measured variables to allow for secondary analysis; and (3) biceps femoris muscle architecture was measured, which resulted in 13 studies identified for further analysis. The TESTEX criteria were used to assess the quality of studies with risk of bias assessment assessed using a fail-safe N (Rosenthal method). Consistency of studies was analysed using I2 as a test of heterogeneity and secondary analysis of studies included Hedges’ g effect sizes for strength and muscle architecture variables to provide comparison within studies, between-study differences were estimated using a random-effects model.

Results

A range of scores (3–11 out of 15) from the TESTEX criteria were reported, showing variation in study quality. A ‘low risk of bias’ was observed in the randomized controlled trials included, with no study bias shown for both strength or architecture (N = 250 and 663, respectively; p < 0.001). Study consistency was moderate to high for strength (I2 = 62.49%) and muscle architecture (I2 = 88.03%). Within-study differences showed that following interventions of ≥ 6 weeks, very large positive effect sizes were seen in eccentric strength following both high volume (g = 2.12) and low volume (g = 2.28) NHE interventions. Similar results were reported for changes in fascicle length (g ≥ 2.58) and a large-to-very large positive reduction in pennation angle (g ≥ 1.31). Between-study differences were estimated to be at a magnitude of 0.374 (p = 0.009) for strength and 0.793 (p < 0.001) for architecture.

Conclusions

Reducing NHE volume prescription does not negatively affect adaptations in eccentric strength and muscle architecture when compared with high dose interventions. These findings suggest that lower volumes of NHE may be more appropriate for athletes, with an aim to increase intervention compliance, potentially reducing the risk of HSI.
Inorganic Nanozyme with Combined Self-Oxygenation/Degradable Capabilities for Sensitized Cancer Immunochemotherapy
Authors: Wang Jie , Fang Lan , Li Ping , Ma Lang , Na Weidan , Cheng Chong , Gu Yueqing , Deng Dawei
Published: September 2019

Recently emerged cancer immunochemotherapy has provided enormous new possibilities to replace traditional chemotherapy in fighting tumor. However, the treatment efficacy is hampered by tumor hypoxia-induced immunosuppression in tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, we fabricated a self-oxygenation/degradable inorganic nanozyme with a core–shell structure to relieve tumor hypoxia in cancer immunochemotherapy. By integrating the biocompatible CaO2 as the oxygen-storing component, this strategy is more effective than the earlier designed nanocarriers for delivering oxygen or H2O2, and thus provides remarkable oxygenation and long-term capability in relieving hypoxia throughout the tumor tissue. Consequently, in vivo tests validate that the delivery system can successfully relieve hypoxia and reverse the immunosuppressive TME to favor antitumor immune responses, leading to enhanced chemoimmunotherapy with cytotoxic T lymphocyte-associated antigen 4 blockade. Overall, a facile, robust and effective strategy is proposed to improve tumor oxygenation by using self-decomposable and biocompatible inorganic nanozyme reactor, which will not only provide an innovative pathway to relieve intratumoral hypoxia, but also present potential applications in other oxygen-favored cancer therapies or oxygen deficiency-originated diseases.
Clinical and functional ultra-long-term outcome of patients with a clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis
Authors: Beck Katharina , Studerus Erich , Andreou Christina , Egloff Laura , Leanza Letizia , Simon Andor E. , Borgwardt Stefan , Riecher-Rössler Anita
Published: September 2019

Background:

Few studies have followed up patients with a clinical high risk (CHR) for psychosis for more than 2–3 years. We aimed to investigate the rates and baseline predictors for remission from CHR and transition to psychosis over a follow-up period of up to 16 years. Additionally, we examined the clinical and functional long-term outcome of CHR patients who did not transition.

Methods:

We analyzed the long-term course of CHR patients that had been included in the longitudinal studies “Früherkennung von Psychosen” (FePsy) or “Bruderholz” (BHS). Those patients who had not transitioned to psychosis during the initial follow-up periods (2/5 years), were invited for additional follow-ups.

Results:

Originally, 255 CHR patients had been included. Of these, 47 had transitioned to psychosis during the initial follow-ups. Thus, 208 were contacted for the long-term follow-up, of which 72 (34.6%) participated. From the original sample of 255, 26%, 31%, 35%, and 38% were estimated to have transitioned after 3, 5, 10, and 16 years, respectively, and 51% had remitted from their high risk status at the latest follow-up. Better psychosocial functioning at baseline was associated with a higher rate of remission. Of the 72 CHR patients re-assessed at long-term follow-up, 60 had not transitioned, but only 28% of those were fully recovered clinically and functionally.

Conclusions:

Our study shows the need for follow-ups and clinical attention longer than the usual 2–3 years as there are several CHR patients with later transitions and only a minority of CHR those without transition fully recovers.
Identifying strategies to promote team science in dissemination and implementation research
Authors: Aarons Gregory A. , Reeder Kendal , Miller Christopher J. , Stadnick Nicole A.
Published: September 2019

Introduction:

Scientific endeavors are increasingly carried out by teams of scientists. While there is growing literature on factors associated with effective science teams, little is known about processes that facilitate the success of dissemination and implementation (D&I) teams studying the uptake of healthcare innovations. This study aimed to identify strategies used by D&I scientists to promote team science.

Methods:

Using a nominal group technique, a sample of 27 D&I scholars responded to the question, “What strategies have you or others used to promote team science?” Participants were asked to individually respond and then discuss within a small group to determine the group’s top three strategies. Through a facilitated consensus discussion with the full sample, a rank-ordered list of three strategies was determined.

Results:

A total of 126 individual responses (M= 9; SD = 4.88) were submitted. Through small group discussion, six groups ranked their top three strategies to promote team science. The final ranked list of strategies determined by the full sample included: (1) developing and maintaining clear expectations, (2) promoting and modeling effective communication, and (3) establishing shared goals and a mission of the work to be accomplished.

Conclusions:

Because of its goal of translating knowledge to practice, D&I research necessitates the use of team science. The top strategies are in line with those found to be effective for teams in other fields and hold promise for improving D&I team cohesion and innovation, which may ultimately accelerate the translation of health innovations and the improvement of care quality and outcomes.
A team-based translational journal club: Understanding the translational research highway
Authors: Feghali-Bostwick Carol , Harvey Jillian , Hasseler Carissa , Lee-Chavarria Diana , Halushka Perry
Published: September 2019

The mission of the National Center for Advancing Translational Science (NCATS) is to catalyze the generation of innovative methods and technologies that will enhance the development, testing, and implementation of diagnostics and therapeutics across a wide range of human diseases and conditions.1 NCATS funded a predoctoral TL1 training grant at our institution. We developed a novel team-based Translational Journal Club utilizing three-member teams to find a basic science paper and two clinical study papers that covered a single therapeutic, either a pivotal study or a dissemination and implementation study; one member of the team presented a paper on the above topics in successive weeks. In addition, the trainees attended lectures on: how to design a pivotal clinical trial, dissemination and implementation, and drug development from a basic science discovery through its approval. From these presentations, the trainees appreciated the T0 to T3/4 continuum and its challenges. They also attended sessions on how to present scientific concepts, making them better communicators. The trainees found the Translational Journal club to be very rewarding, illuminating, and providing a much better understanding of the translational research processes required to develop new therapies.
FORCING AND THE HALPERN–LÄUCHLI THEOREM
Authors: DOBRINEN NATASHA , HATHAWAY DANIEL
Published: September 2019

We investigate the effects of various forcings on several forms of the Halpern– Läuchli theorem. For inaccessible κ, we show they are preserved by forcings of size less than κ. Combining this with work of Zhang in [17] yields that the polarized partition relations associated with finite products of the κ-rationals are preserved by all forcings of size less than κ over models satisfying the Halpern– Läuchli theorem at κ. We also show that the Halpern–Läuchli theorem is preserved by <κ-closed forcings assuming κ is measurable, following some observed reflection properties.
McKinsey and the ‘Tripartite Monster’: The Role of Management Consultants in the 1974 NHS Reorganisation
Authors: Begley Philip , Sheard Sally
Published: September 2019

The first major reorganisation of the National Health Service took place in 1974, twenty-six years after the service had been established. It has long been perceived as a failure. This article draws on archival records and a witness seminar held in November 2016 to provide a more nuanced assessment of the 1974 reorganisation and understand more fully why it took the form that it did. In particular it identifies the reorganisation as an important moment in the ongoing story of management consultants engaging with health policymakers, and explores the role of McKinsey and Co. in detail for the first time. Key explanatory factors for their involvement are identified, including the perceived lack of expertise and manpower inside the civil service and the NHS, and perceptions of their impact and effectiveness are discussed. Many debates about the use of management consultants today were directly foreshadowed during the early 1970s. Alongside this, the role of other groups of policy actors, including civil servants, politicians and medical professionals, are established and the extent to which British health policymakers have had to work within existing cultural, political, legislative and practical constraints when trying to initiate change is demonstrated. The fact that many of the ‘mistakes’ that were made have been repeated in the course of subsequent reforms, speaks to the poor institutional memory of Whitehall, and the Department of Health and Social Care in particular. In the run up to 1974 management consultants could make only a limited contribution to an imperfect compromise.
Radiocarbon Dating at Groningen: New and Updated Chemical Pretreatment Procedures
Authors: Dee M W , Palstra S W L , Aerts-Bijma A Th , Bleeker M O , de Bruijn S , Ghebru F , Jansen H G , Kuitems M , Paul D , Richie R R , Spriensma J J , Scifo A , van Zonneveld D , Verstappen-Dumoulin B M A A , Wietzes-Land P , Meijer H A J
Published: September 2019

The Centre for Isotope Research (CIO) at the University of Groningen has operated a radiocarbon (14C) dating laboratory for almost 70 years. In 2017, the CIO received a major upgrade, which involved the relocation of the laboratory to new purpose-built premises, and the installation of a MICADAS accelerator mass spectrometer. This period of transition provides an opportunity to update the laboratory’s routine procedures. This article addresses all of the processes and quality checks the CIO has in place for registering, tracking and pretreating samples for radiocarbon dating. Complementary updates relating to radioisotope measurement and uncertainty propagation will be provided in other forthcoming publications. Here, the intention is to relay all the practical information regarding the chemical preparation of samples, and to provide a concise explanation as to why each step is deemed necessary.
Crystal structure of (Z)-cefprozil monohydrate, C18H19N3O5S(H2O)
Authors: Butler Zachary R. , Kaduk James A. , Gindhart Amy M. , Blanton Thomas N.
Published: September 2019

The crystal structure of cefprozil monohydrate has been solved and refined using synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction data and optimized using density functional techniques. Cefprozil monohydrate crystallizes in space group P21 (#4) with a = 11.26513(6), b = 11.34004(5), c = 14.72649(11) Å, β = 90.1250(4)°, V = 1881.262(15) Å3, and Z = 4. Although a reasonable fit was obtained using an orthorhombic model, closer examination showed that many peaks were split and/or had shoulders, and thus the true symmetry was monoclinic. DFT calculations revealed that one carboxylic acid proton moved to an amino group. The structure thus contains one ion pair and one pair of neutral molecules. This protonation was confirmed by infrared spectroscopy. There is an extensive array of hydrogen bonds resulting in a three-dimensional network. The powder pattern has been submitted to ICDD® for inclusion in the Powder Diffraction File™.
What do you really need? Self- and partner-reported intervention preferences within cognitive behavioural therapy for reassurance seeking behaviour
Authors: Neal Rachael L. , Radomsky Adam S.
Published: September 2019

Background:

Reassurance seeking (RS) in obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is commonly addressed in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) using a technique called reducing accommodation. Reducing accommodation is a behaviourally based CBT intervention that may be effective; however, there is a lack of controlled research on its use and acceptability to clients/patients, and case studies suggest that it can be associated with negative emotional/behavioural consequences. Providing support to encourage coping with distress is a cognitively based CBT intervention that may be an effective alternative, but lacks evidence regarding its acceptability.

Aims:

This study aimed to determine whether support provision may be a more acceptable/endorsed CBT intervention for RS than a strict reducing accommodation approach.

Method:

Participants and familiar partners (N = 179) read vignette descriptions of accommodation reduction and support interventions, and responded to measures of perceived intervention acceptability/adhereability and endorsement, before completing a forced-choice preference task.

Results:

Overall, findings suggested that participants and partners gave significantly higher ratings for the support than the accommodation reduction intervention (partial η2 = .049 to .321). Participants and partners also both selected the support intervention more often than the traditional reducing accommodation intervention when given the choice.

Conclusions:

Support provision is perceived as an acceptable CBT intervention for RS by participants and their familiar partners. These results have implications for cognitive behavioural theory and practice related to RS.