bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“Genome Editing” vor dem EuGH und seine Folgen
Authors: Andersen Elisabeth , Schreiber Katharina
Published: February 2020

Der Beitrag untersucht die Reaktionen, die auf das EuGH-Urteil C-528/16 vom 25.7.2018 zur Anwendbarkeit
der Europäischen Freisetzungsrichtlinie 2001/18/EG auf sogenannte Genomeditierungsverfahren im Rahmen
der Grünen Gentechnologie erfolgt sind. Seit der Verkündung des Urteils im Juli 2018 wurde es
umfassend und zum Teil auch höchst kritisch aus naturwissenschaftlicher, rechtswissenschaftlicher und
wirtschaftlicher Perspektive beleuchtet und bewertet. Ziel dieses Beitrages ist es, einen Überblick
über die unterschiedlichen Reaktionen zu geben und wesentliche Kritikpunkte aufzuzeigen. Damit soll
die Bedeutung des Urteils im Rahmen der Diskussion um die Regulierung der Grünen Gentechnik eingeschätzt
und bewertet werden.
Lethal and sublethal effects of toxicants on bumble bee populations: a modelling approach
Authors: Banks J. E. , Banks H. T. , Myers N. , Laubmeier A. N. , Bommarco R.
Published: February 2020

Pollinator decline worldwide is well-documented; globally, chemical pesticides (especially the class of pesticides known as neonicotinoids) have been implicated in hymenopteran decline, but the mechanics and drivers of population trends and dynamics of wild bees is poorly understood. Declines and shifts in community composition of bumble bees (Bombusspp.) have been documented in North America and Europe, with a suite of lethal and sub-lethal effects of pesticides on bumble bee populations documented. We employ a mathematical model parameterized with values taken from the literature that uses differential equations to track bumble bee populations through time in order to attain a better understanding of toxicant effects on a developing colony of bumble bees. We use a delay differential equation (DDE) model, which requires fewer parameter estimations than agent-based models while affording us the ability to explicitly describe the effect of larval incubation and colony history on population outcomes. We explore how both lethal and sublethal effects such as reduced foraging ability may combine to affect population outcomes, and discuss the implications for the protection and conservation of ecosystem services.
Naive Russellians and Schiffer’s Puzzle
Authors: Rinner Stefan
Published: February 2020

Neo-Russellians like Salmon and Braun hold that: (A) the semantic contents of sentences are structured propositions whose basic components are objects and properties, (B) names are directly referential terms, and (C) a sentence of the form ‘n believes that S’ is true in a context c iff the referent of the name n in c believes the proposition expressed by S in c. This is sometimes referred to as ‘the Naive Russellian theory’. In this talk, I will discuss the Naive Russellian theory primarily in connection with a problem known as Schiffer’s puzzle. Schiffer first presented the puzzle as an argument against the Naive Russellian theory. Schiffer’s argument proceeds in two steps. In step one, Schiffer argues that the Naive Russellian theory is committed to two principles regarding de re belief; the special-case consequence and Frege’s constraint. Then, in step two, Schiffer argues that the special-case consequence is not consistent with Frege’s constraint. Salmon and Braun reply to Schiffer’s argument that although the Naive Russellian theory is committed to Frege’s constraint, it is not committed to the special-case consequence. However, in this paper, I will argue with a new Schiffer-case that even if the Naive Russellian theory is not committed to the special-case consequence, it is still not consistent with Frege’s constraint. Concluding, I will discuss the possibility to reject Frege’s constraint within the Naive Russellian theory.
Are meiofauna a standard meal for macroinvertebrates and juvenile fish?
Authors: Ptatscheck Christoph , Brüchner-Hüttemann Henrike , Kreuzinger-Janik Bianca , Weber Sebastian , Traunspurger Walter
Published: February 2020

Due to the lack of empirical data, meiofauna are often underestimated as prey for freshwater animals and are commonly regarded as trophic dead ends. Here we present a synthesis of recent evidence showing that meiofauna are significant as prey, not only for many benthic macroinvertebrates (chironomids, shrimps, and flatworms) but also for juveniles of widespread freshwater bottom-feeding fish species (e.g., carps, gudgeons, catfish). In this review, we focus on the following questions: (1) Which groups consume meiofauna? (2) In what amounts are meiofauna ingested? (3) Does predatory feeding behavior influence natural meiofaunal communities? (4) Are meiofauna organisms actively ingested or are they bycatch? To answer these questions, we focused on studies that included gut/feces analyses of potential predators and empirical investigations conducted in the laboratory (e.g., functional response experiments and microcosm studies) and in the field (enclosure/exclosure settings). We were able to demonstrate that meiofauna taxa are consumed in high numbers by a wide range of larger organisms. This predation can significantly shape meiofaunal communities, by reducing the abundance, biomass, and production of certain members of the investigated assemblages. However, in most cases, it remains unclear if there is an active predation of meiofauna or a passive ingestion by unselective feeding.
The Influence of Wood and Basalt Fibres on Mechanical, Thermal and Hydrothermal Properties of PLA Composites
Authors: Kuciel Stanisław , Mazur Karolina , Hebda Marek
Published: February 2020

In this study, biodegradable biocomposites based on polylactide with basalt fibres (BFs) or wood fibres (WFs) of 7.5 or 15 wt% were prepared by injection moulding. Various tests, including tensile test, bending test and impact test, were carried out to investigate the mechanical properties of the composites. Additionally, the samples were tested at different temperatures. Depending on the type of fibre, differences were noted in their mechanical properties; the addition of WF caused a decrease in strength and the higher the fibre content, the higher the decrease was noted from 18% up 25% in the case of tensile strength. However, the Young modulus was improved by 45% for composites with 15 wt% of WF. The addition of BF improved all the properties, especially Young modulus was improved by over 45%. Despite the low strength observed in neat polylactide at high temperatures-394 MPa, the addition of WF or BF improved the flexural strength more than twofold up to 1684 MPa (PLA/15BF). Moreover, the addition of natural fibres caused an increase in dimensional stability as shown by the decrease of the coefficient of thermal expansion which dropped over 50% for composites with 15 wt% of BF, which significantly expands the areas of use of materials. After 4 weeks of biodegradation, only a slight decrease approximately 5% was observed in the mechanical properties together with an increase in crystallinity. Overall, the results confirm that the prepared composites can be successfully used in engineering applications with long-term operation.
Prevalence, Predictors, and Treatment of Impostor Syndrome: a Systematic Review
Authors: Bravata Dena M. , Watts Sharon A. , Keefer Autumn L. , Madhusudhan Divya K. , Taylor Katie T. , Clark Dani M. , Nelson Ross S. , Cokley Kevin O. , Hagg Heather K.
Published: February 2020

Background

Impostor syndrome is increasingly presented in the media and lay literature as a key behavioral health condition impairing professional performance and contributing to burnout. However, there is no published review of the evidence to guide the diagnosis or treatment of patients presenting with impostor syndrome.

Purpose

To evaluate the evidence on the prevalence, predictors, comorbidities, and treatment of impostor syndrome.

Data Sources

Medline, Embase, and PsycINFO (January 1966 to May 2018) and bibliographies of retrieved articles.

Study Selection

English-language reports of evaluations of the prevalence, predictors, comorbidities, or treatment of impostor syndrome.

Data Extraction

Two independent investigators extracted data on study variables (e.g., study methodology, treatments provided); participant variables (e.g., demographics, professional setting); diagnostic tools used, outcome variables (e.g., workplace performance, reductions in comorbid conditions); and pre-defined quality variables (e.g., human subjects approval, response rates reported).

Data Synthesis

In total, 62 studies of 14,161 participants met the inclusion criteria (half were published in the past 6 years). Prevalence rates of impostor syndrome varied widely from 9 to 82% largely depending on the screening tool and cutoff used to assess symptoms and were particularly high among ethnic minority groups. Impostor syndrome was common among both men and women and across a range of age groups (adolescents to late-stage professionals). Impostor syndrome is often comorbid with depression and anxiety and is associated with impaired job performance, job satisfaction, and burnout among various employee populations including clinicians. No published studies evaluated treatments for this condition.

Limitations

Studies were heterogeneous; publication bias may be present.

Conclusions

Clinicians and employers should be mindful of the prevalence of impostor syndrome among professional populations and take steps to assess for impostor feelings and common comorbidities. Future research should include evaluations of treatments to mitigate impostor symptoms and its common comorbidities.
Time and Organizational Cost for Facilitating Implementation of Primary Care Mental Health Integration
Authors: Ritchie Mona J. , Kirchner JoAnn E. , Townsend James C. , Pitcock Jeffery A. , Dollar Katherine M. , Liu Chuan-Fen
Published: February 2020

Background

Integrating mental health services into primary care settings is complex and challenging. Although facilitation strategies have successfully supported implementation of primary care mental health integration and other complex innovations, we know little about the time required or its cost.

Objective

To examine the time and organizational cost of facilitating implementation of primary care mental health integration.

Design

Descriptive analysis.

Participants

One expert external facilitator and two internal regional facilitators who helped healthcare system stakeholders, e.g., leaders, managers, clinicians, and non-clinical staff, implement primary care mental health integration at eight clinics.

Intervention

Implementation facilitation tailored to the needs and resources of the setting and its stakeholders.

Main Measures

We documented facilitators’ and stakeholders’ time and types of activities using a structured spreadsheet collected from facilitators on a weekly basis. We obtained travel costs and salary information. We conducted descriptive analysis of time data and estimated organizational cost.

Key Results

The external facilitator devoted 263 h (0.09 FTE), including travel, across all 8 clinics over 28 months. Internal facilitator time varied across networks (1792 h versus 1169 h), as well as clinics. Stakeholder participation time was similar across networks (1280.6 versus 1363.4 person hours) but the number of stakeholders varied (133 versus 199 stakeholders). The organizational cost of providing implementation facilitation also varied across networks ($263,490 versus $258,127). Stakeholder participation accounted for 35% of the cost of facilitation activities in one network and 47% of the cost in the other.

Conclusions

Although facilitation can improve implementation of primary care mental health integration, it requires substantial organizational investments that may vary by site and implementation effort. Furthermore, the cost of using an external expert to transfer facilitation skills and build capacity for implementation efforts appears to be minimal.
DiscreteZOO: A Fingerprint Database of Discrete Objects
Authors: Berčič Katja , Vidali Janoš
Published: February 2020

In this paper, we present DiscreteZOO, a project which illustrates some of the possibilities for computer-supported management of collections of finite combinatorial (discrete) objects, in particular graphs with a high degree of symmetry. DiscreteZOO encompasses a data repository, a website and a SageMath Package.
Good News from Africa
Authors: Spitzer Helmut
Published: February 2020

In der afrikanischen Region der Großen Seen kämpft Soziale Arbeit in Abgrenzung zu importierten Theorien und Konzepten um ein eigenständiges, indigenes Profil. Dazu lief über mehrere Jahre ein Projekt zur Erforschung und Stärkung der Profession. Zentrale Komponenten dieses Projekts waren Forschung, Lehrplanentwicklung, Berufspolitik und Lobbyarbeit.
Rechtsnationale, autoritäre Orientierungen und Soziale Arbeit
Authors: Scherr Albert , Thole Werner
Published: February 2020

In dem Beitrag wird die Bedeutung einer Auseinandersetzung mit nationalen und xenophobischen Positionen und Handlungen in Wissenschaft und Praxis der Sozialen Arbeit betont. Angemahnt wir zudem eine Aufarbeitung der Erfahrungen mit Projekten gegen rechts motivierte Gewalt. Eine Sensibilisierung der Sozialen Arbeit für antihumanistische Selbst- und Weltdeutungen von Adressat_innen scheint zudem ebenso angebracht wie eine kontinuierliche Förderung von Projekten, die sich gegen rechtsnationale Haltungen engagieren.
From the apron into the pit: the deposition of the complete debris from the manufacture of a bifacial preform at the Middle Paleolithic site of Kabazi V, level III/4-2
Authors: Uthmeier Thorsten , Chabai Victor P. , Veselsky Andrey P.
Published: February 2020

At Kabazi V, level III/4-2, the entire debris from the manufacture of a bifacial preform was found deposited in a small anthropogenic pit. The bifacial preform itself was missing. The fact that it was possible to refit all larger blanks, as well as several chips, from the pit, whereas refits with artifacts discarded on the surface of the corresponding archeological level were not found, underlines the character of the pit’s contents as a closed find sensu stricto. The only explanation for the presence of chips of very small size from the same nodule, alongside the larger ones, in the pit fill is the use of an apron to collect all detached items during the process of flaking. Among the numerous anthropogenic pits from the Crimean Middle Paleolithic, the one found at Kabazi V, level III/4-2, and two other examples from Zaskalanya V and Zaskalnaya VI stand out for the intentional deposition of carefully selected artifacts in them. The sizes of the pits match the volumes of the artifacts deposited, which emphasizes the close relationship between the construction of the pits and the artifacts’ deposition. This article explores the significance of the three cases of artifact deposition referred to above to our understanding of segmented production processes and of why these depositions occurred. The most evident interpretation is that they were caches of equipment stored as insurance for unforeseen circumstances, which is indicative of substantial planning depth and a recurrent use of logistical territories.
A New Definition of Voltage Unbalance Using Supply Phase Shift
Authors: Adekitan Aderibigbe Israel
Published: February 2020

Studies on voltage unbalance have revealed its detrimental effects on the operation of three-phase induction motors (TPIM) due to the production of negative-sequence current and torque. Voltage unbalance has been defined in different ways over the years, and each of these definitions is limited in scope in one form or the order, e.g. the neglect or inadequate consideration of the phase angle of the supply in these definitions. The complex voltage unbalance factor captures the phase angle using the ratio of the sequence components, but there is a challenge on the interpretation of the random angle θv with respect to the supply. In this study, a novel definition of phase unbalance is proposed which considers the normal 120° displacement of the three phases of the supply. A comparative analysis of all the definitions is presented using four operational supply case studies for a TPIM, and the results may ultimately impact control strategies.
Präzisere ergonomische Risikobeurteilung durch die Kombination von Inertialsensoren mit observatorischen Methoden am Beispiel von RULA
Authors: Maltry L. , Holzgreve F. , Maurer C. , Wanke E. M. , Ohlendorf D.
Published: February 2020

Zur ergonomischen Beurteilung von Arbeitsplätzen werden „ergonomic risk assessment tools“ (ERAT) verwendet. Mithilfe dieser kann die körperliche Belastung evaluiert und hinsichtlich eines biomechanischen Überlastungsrisikos bewertet werden. Dazu gehören neben Eigenangaben auch observatorische Methoden, deren Ergebnisse in Punktwerten („Scores“) zusammengefasst werden, wie z. B. die RULA-Methode („rapid upper limb assessment“). Durch die technische Weiterentwicklung direkter Messmethoden können inertiale Motion-Capture-Systeme im 21. Jahrhundert präzise und kontinuierliche objektive Daten liefern. In einem neuen Ansatz wurde die observatorische Scoring-Methode RULA modifiziert und auf die digital erhobenen Daten angewendet, was differenzierte ergonomische Betrachtungen ganzer Arbeitsabläufe ermöglicht.
Die Fahrradergometrie in der arbeitsmedizinischen Vorsorge
Authors: Sammito S. , Heblich F. , Güttler N.
Published: February 2020

Eine ausreichend hohe körperliche Leistungsfähigkeit ist für viele Berufsgruppen von elementarer Bedeutung für die Bewältigung der täglichen Arbeitsanforderungen (u. a. Feuerwehr, Polizei, Militär, aber auch Beschäftigte im Baugewerbe, Bergbau und Landwirtschaft). Für die Überprüfung der körperlichen Leistungsfähigkeit steht dem Arbeits- und Betriebsmediziner die (Fahrrad‑)Ergometrie als standardisierte, unter Praxisbedingungen durchführbare Untersuchung zur Verfügung.

Unter Berücksichtigung der nationalen und internationalen Leitlinien und aktueller wissenschaftlicher Literatur werden die für den Arbeitsmediziner notwendigen Kenntnisse, Voraussetzungen, Indikationen und Kontraindikationen der Ergometrie zusammengefasst. Durchführungsempfehlungen werden dargestellt. Abbruchkriterien aufgrund pathologischer Auffälligkeiten oder bei Erreichen der Ausbelastung werden aufgelistet. Die Vor- und Nachteile der Stufen- vs. der Rampenbelastung werden gezeigt. Neben den physiologisch zu erwartenden Reaktionen bei dieser Belastungsprüfung wird auch die eingeschränkte Sensitivität und Spezifität der Ergometrie für die Diagnostik einer koronaren Herzerkrankung am Beispiel der falsch-positiven und falsch-negativen Ergometrieuntersuchungen für Männer und Frauen im Alter von 50–59 Jahren mit unklaren Brustbeschwerden diskutiert. Die unterschiedlichen Ergometrieformen und ihre teilweise eingeschränkte Vergleichbarkeit untereinander und mit den reellen Arbeitsbedingungen erschweren darüber hinaus die Aussagekraft der Fahrradergometrie für die Beurteilung der körperlichen Leistungsfähigkeit eines Probanden, da lediglich die spezifisch fahrradergometrische Leistungsfähigkeit geprüft wird. Trotz den bei gesunden und jungen Probanden geringen Komplikationsraten sollte daher der Einsatz der Fahrradergometrie in der arbeitsmedizinischen Vorsorge kein Automatismus bei der Beurteilbarkeit der körperlichen Leistungsfähigkeit für den Einsatz des Probanden an einem bestimmten Arbeitsplatz sein.
Application of a sea surface roughness formula using joint statistics of significant wave height and spectral wave steepness
Authors: Myrhaug Dag , Leira Bernt J. , Chai Wei
Published: February 2020

This article provides some statistical features of the sea surface roughness given as a function of the spectral wave steepness and the significant wave height suggested by Taylor and Yelland (J Phys Oceanogr 31:572–590, 2001), which is best to use for mixed wind sea and swell, and for swell-dominated situations (Drennan et al., J Phys Oceanogr 35:835–848, 2005). Results are obtained using the Myrhaug and Fouques (2008) bivariate statistics of the spectral wave steepness and the significant wave height representing wind sea, swell, and combined wind sea and swell. Associated results are also given for the sea surface drag coefficient and the turbulent energy density, as well as a procedure of estimating the sea surface roughness from 1-, 10- and 100-year contour lines. Finally, a simple example of application is given, demonstrating the effect of the sea surface roughness on slowly varying surge motion of marine structures exposed to wind gust.
From a Line on Paper to a Line in Physical Reality: Joint state-building at the Chinese-Vietnamese border, 1954–1957
Authors: YIN QINGFEI
Published: February 2020

This article studies the collaboration between the Chinese and Vietnamese communists in the socialist transformation of their shared borderlands after the First Indochina War. It both complicates and clarifies the volatile bilateral relationship between the two emerging communist states as they solidified their power in the 1950s. Departing from traditional narratives of Sino-Vietnamese relations which focus on wars and conflicts, this article examines how the timely convergence of Cold War and state expansion transformed the Sino-Vietnamese borderlands from 1954 to 1957. Using both Chinese and Vietnamese archival sources, it contends that the Chinese and Vietnamese communists pursued two interrelated goals in carrying out the political projects at the territorial limits of their countries. First, they wanted to build an inward-looking economy and society at the respective borders by consolidating the national administration of territory. Second, they wanted to impose a contrived Cold War comradeship between the People's Republic of China (PRC) and the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (DRV) in place of the organic interdependence of people within the borderlands that had existed in the area for centuries. The Sino-Vietnamese border, therefore, was the focus of joint state-building by the two communist governments, which made the cross-border movement of people and goods more visible, manipulable, and, more importantly, taxable.
Linking epidemiology and molecular mechanisms in sarcopenic obesity in populations
Authors: El Bizri Issam , Batsis John A.
Published: February 2020

Recognising the adverse outcomes that occur to obese adults over the age of 65 years with loss of muscle mass or strength, or sarcopenia is important. We will review the definitions of sarcopenic obesity, and attempt to link the epidemiological data with the molecular pathways. Upon understanding the model of sarcopenic obesity, we will discuss targeted interventions and further challenges to address this geriatric syndrome. As our understanding of this syndrome is growing, more data are emerging to help define sarcopenic obesity across different populations. We now have a better understanding of biological pathways in ageing such as changes in body composition, sex-specific hormones, pro-inflammatory markers and myocellular mechanisms. We will review a comprehensive model that shows the interactions between the different pathways leading to sarcopenic obesity. Such a model will explain the promising interventions in place and invite future ones. Sarcopenic obesity is an important geriatric syndrome with significant clinical and healthcare implications. Further research is needed to harmonise definitions, clarify mechanisms contributing to syndrome and use evidence-based interventions to target biological mechanisms in both research and clinical settings.
Community forensic psychiatric services in England and Wales
Authors: Latham Richard , Williams Hannah Kate
Published: February 2020

Forensic psychiatry is an established medical specialty in England and Wales. Although its origins lie in the 19th century, the development of secure hospitals accelerated in the late 20th century. Services for mentally disordered offenders in the community have developed most recently and it is these services, which are the focus of this article. We have looked broadly at community services and have included criminal justice liaison and diversion services in our remit. We have also considered partnerships between health and justice agencies as well as mental health and criminal legislation. We consider the limited research evidence in relation to community forensic services and the discussion this has provoked.
Effect of Computer-Simulated Leaders’ Compromise on	Members’ Emotional State and Protest Behavior
Authors: Dias Carina Sofia Ferreira , Pinto Isabel R. , Marques José M. , Paiva Tiago O. , Barbosa Fernando , Cardoso Sónia G.
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Participants ( N = 119) played the “Dictator Game” (computer mediated) with two bogus computer-simulated players, one of whom, the Dictator, distributed money across ten trials, either as extremely unfair (Inflexible Dictator) or being less unfair (Flexible Dictator). The other player either protested against (Protest condition) or did not react (Apathy condition) to the dictator’s decision, after each trial. We measured participants’ self-reported anger and disinterest, physiological skin conductance (SCL), heart rate (HR), and number and type of comments directed to the Dictator. Anger and number of comments were lower in the Apathy than in the Protest condition. Participants’ SCL, HR, and protest comments decreased in the Apathy condition, and increased in the Protest condition. Protest assumed a more punitive tone in the Inflexible than in the Flexible Dictator condition. We discuss these results’ contribution to understand individuals’ motivation to engage in protest and apathy, and the role of emotions in that process.
The Effect of Money Priming on Self-Focus in the Imitation-Inhibition	Task
Authors: Genschow Oliver , Schuler Johannes , Cracco Emiel , Brass Marcel , Wänke Michaela
Published: February 2020

Abstract. The self-sufficiency hypothesis suggests that priming individuals with money makes them focus more strongly on themselves than on others. However, recently, research supporting this claim has been heavily criticized and some attempts to replicate have failed. A reason for the inconsistent findings in the field may lay in the common use of explicit measures, because they tend to rely on one or just a few items and are thus prone to demand effects and low reliability. In the present research, we administered, in two experiments, the imitation-inhibition task – a robust, unobtrusive, and reliable paradigm that is sensitive to self-other focus on a trial-by-trial basis. A pilot study found an increased focus on the self as compared to others when primed with money. Building on this finding, a preregistered high-powered experiment replicated this effect, suggesting that money primes may indeed increase a focus on the self. An additionally carried out meta-analysis indicates that automatic imitation is modulated by self-other focus and that money primes lead to a smaller focus on the self than conventional methods. Overall, the found effects are rather small and several limitations, such as order effects, call for a cautious interpretation of the findings.
Nonlinear Evolution of Radiation Belt Electron Fluxes Interacting With Oblique Whistler Mode Chorus Emissions
Authors: Hsieh Yi‐Kai , Kubota Yuko , Omura Yoshiharu
Published: February 2020

Nonlinear whistler mode wave‐particle interaction is one of the processes to generate relativistic electrons in the Earth's outer radiation belt. Applying test particle simulations with a pair of whistler mode chorus emissions, we traced a large number of electrons in various initial conditions along an
magnetic field line to build a set of Green's functions for analyzing evolution of the electron distribution under the chorus emissions. Employing convolution integral for the Green's functions, we tracked the formation of relativistic electron fluxes from an injected energetic electron through interaction with consecutive chorus emissions. We compared the simulation results among a purely parallel wave model and two oblique wave models with wave normal angles gradually increased from 0° to 20° and 60°. Multiple resonances result in a higher probability of nonlinear trapping. Hence, the trapped electrons for the oblique cases are scattered to a wider range of pitch angles than those for the parallel case. Oblique chorus can accelerate 10–30 keV electrons to MeV level rapidly in several wave emission cycles (about 10 s), which is much faster than that of the parallel wave model. The study shows comprehensive evolutions of electron fluxes interacting with oblique chorus emissions through cyclotron and Landau resonances in the outer radiation belt.
Comparisons of Lightning Rates and Properties From the U.S. National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN) and GLD360 With GOES‐16 Geostationary Lightning Mapper and Advanced Baseline Imager Data
Authors: Murphy Martin J. , Said Ryan K.
Published: February 2020

Flash‐level comparisons between the Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM; primarily from GOES‐16), the U.S. National Lightning Detection Network (NLDN), and the Global Lightning Dataset GLD360 have been done at quasi‐climatological scale and in smaller samples of both severe and nonsevere thunderstorms. A small sample of data from GOES‐17 has also been analyzed. These comparisons show that the total lightning detection efficiencies of the GLM instruments drop off within about 2,000 km of the edges of their fields of view, particularly over terrestrial areas. In severe storms, low detection efficiency by GLM is clearly associated with very high midaltitude reflectivity, consistent with the idea that large multiple scattering path lengths, together with absorption of the near‐infrared signals by water (in all of its phases), depresses the GLM detection efficiency. This effect appears to be coupled with additional factors, including time of day, flash energetics, and the incident angle at the GLM sensor. The “lightning jump,” the sought‐after signature of severe storms in lightning observations, tends to be poorly correlated between NLDN and GLM unless the storms are fairly isolated, not close to the edge of the GLM field of view, and have moderate midaltitude reflectivity.
Long-term bone and lung consequences associated with hospital-acquired severe acute respiratory syndrome: a 15-year follow-up from a prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhang Peixun , Li Jia , Liu Huixin , Han Na , Ju Jiabao , Kou Yuhui , Chen Lei , Jiang Mengxi , Pan Feng , Zheng Yali , Gao Zhancheng , Jiang Baoguo
Published: February 2020

The most severe sequelae after rehabilitation from SARS are femoral head necrosis and pulmonary fibrosis. We performed a 15-year follow-up on the lung and bone conditions of SARS patients. We evaluated the recovery from lung damage and femoral head necrosis in an observational cohort study of SARS patients using pulmonary CT scans, hip joint MRI examinations, pulmonary function tests and hip joint function questionnaires. Eighty medical staff contracted SARS in 2003. Two patients died of SARS, and 78 were enrolled in this study from August 2003 to March 2018. Seventy-one patients completed the 15-year follow-up. The percentage of pulmonary lesions on CT scans diminished from 2003 (9.40 ± 7.83)% to 2004 (3.20 ± 4.78)% (P < 0.001) and remained stable thereafter until 2018 (4.60 ± 6.37)%. Between 2006 and 2018, the proportion of patients with interstitial changes who had improved pulmonary function was lower than that of patients without lesions, as demonstrated by the one-second ratio (FEV1/FVC%, t = 2.21, P = 0.04) and mid-flow of maximum expiration (FEF25%–75%, t = 2.76, P = 0.01). The volume of femoral head necrosis decreased significantly from 2003 (38.83 ± 21.01)% to 2005 (30.38 ± 20.23)% (P = 0.000 2), then declined slowly from 2005 to 2013 (28.99 ± 20.59)% and plateaued until 2018 (25.52 ± 15.51)%. Pulmonary interstitial damage and functional decline caused by SARS mostly recovered, with a greater extent of recovery within 2 years after rehabilitation. Femoral head necrosis induced by large doses of steroid pulse therapy in SARS patients was not progressive and was partially reversible.
Oral splints for temporomandibular disorder or bruxism: a systematic review
Authors: Riley Philip , Glenny Anne-Marie , Worthington Helen V. , Jacobsen Elisabet , Robertson Clare , Durham Justin , Davies Stephen , Petersen Helen , Boyers Dwayne
Published: February 2020

Objectives To evaluate the clinical-effectiveness of oral splints for patients with TMD or bruxism for the primary outcomes: pain (TMD) and tooth wear (bruxism).

Data sources Four databases including MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched from inception until 1 October 2018.

Data selection and extraction Randomised controlled trials comparing all types of splints versus no/minimal treatment for patients with TMD or bruxism were eligible. Standard Cochrane review methods were used. Standardised mean differences (SMD) were pooled for the primary outcome of pain, using random effects models in TMD patients.

Data synthesis Thirty-seven trials were included and the evidence identified was of very low certainty using GRADE assessments. When all subtypes of TMD were pooled into one global TMD group, there was no evidence that splints reduced pain: SMD (up to 3 months) -0.18 (95% CI -0.42 to 0.06); 13 trials, 1,076 participants. There was no evidence that any other outcomes improved when using splints. There was no evidence of adverse events associated with splints, but reporting was poor regarding this outcome. No trials measured tooth wear in patients with bruxism. There was a large variation in diagnostic criteria, splint types and outcome measures used and reported. Sensitivity analyses based on these factors did not indicate a reduction in pain.

Conclusions The very low-certainty evidence identified did not demonstrate that splints reduced pain in TMD as a group of conditions. There is insufficient evidence to determine whether splints reduce tooth wear in patients with bruxism.
Continuous transcription initiation guarantees robust repair of all transcribed genes and regulatory regions
Authors: Liakos Anastasios , Konstantopoulos Dimitris , Lavigne Matthieu D. , Fousteri Maria
Published: February 2020

Inhibition of transcription caused by DNA damage-impaired RNA polymerase II (Pol II) elongation conceals a local increase in de novo transcription, slowly progressing from Transcription Start Sites (TSSs) to gene ends. Although associated with accelerated repair of Pol II-encountered lesions and limited mutagenesis, it is still unclear how this mechanism is maintained during genotoxic stress-recovery. Here we uncover a widespread gain in chromatin accessibility and preservation of the active H3K27ac mark after UV-irradiation. The concomitant increase in Pol II escape from promoter-proximal pause (PPP) sites of most active genes, PROMPTs and enhancer RNAs favors unrestrained initiation, as evidenced by the synthesis of nascent RNAs including start RNAs. Accordingly, drug-inhibition of PPP-release replenishes levels of pre-initiating Pol II at TSSs after UV. Our data show that such continuous engagement of Pol II molecules ensures maximal transcription-driven repair throughout expressed genes and regulatory loci. Importantly, revealing this unanticipated regulatory layer of UV-response provides physiological relevant traction to the emerging concept that Pol II initiation rate is determined by pause-release dynamics.
In situ dissection of domain boundaries affect genome topology and gene transcription in Drosophila
Authors: Arzate-Mejía Rodrigo G. , Josué Cerecedo-Castillo Angel , Guerrero Georgina , Furlan-Magaril Mayra , Recillas-Targa Félix
Published: February 2020

Chromosomes are organized into high-frequency chromatin interaction domains called topologically associating domains (TADs), which are separated from each other by domain boundaries. The molecular mechanisms responsible for TAD formation are not yet fully understood. In Drosophila, it has been proposed that transcription is fundamental for TAD organization while the participation of genetic sequences bound by architectural proteins (APs) remains controversial. Here, we investigate the contribution of domain boundaries to TAD organization and the regulation of gene expression at the Notch gene locus in Drosophila. We find that deletion of domain boundaries results in TAD fusion and long-range topological defects that are accompanied by loss of APs and RNA Pol II chromatin binding as well as defects in transcription. Together, our results provide compelling evidence of the contribution of discrete genetic sequences bound by APs and RNA Pol II in the partition of the genome into TADs and in the regulation of gene expression in Drosophila.
Charge transfer as a ubiquitous mechanism in determining the negative charge at hydrophobic interfaces
Authors: Poli Emiliano , Jong Kwang H. , Hassanali Ali
Published: February 2020

The origin of the apparent negative charge at hydrophobic–water interfaces has fueled debates in the physical chemistry community for decades. The most common interpretation given to explain this observation is that negatively charged hydroxide ions (OH–) bind strongly to the interfaces. Using first principles calculations of extended air–water and oil–water interfaces, we unravel a mechanism that does not require the presence of OH–. Small amounts of charge transfer along hydrogen bonds and asymmetries in the hydrogen bond network due to topological defects can lead to the accumulation of negative surface charge at both interfaces. For water near oil, some spillage of electron density into the oil phase is also observed. The computed surface charge densities at both interfaces is approximately $$-0.015\ {\rm{e}}/{{\rm{nm}}}^{2}$$
−
0.015

e
∕

nm

2

in agreement with electrophoretic experiments. We also show, using an energy decomposition analysis, that the electronic origin of this phenomena is rooted in a collective polarization/charge transfer effect.
Suppressing hydrogen peroxide generation to achieve oxygen-insensitivity of a [NiFe] hydrogenase in redox active films
Authors: Li Huaiguang , Münchberg Ute , Oughli Alaa A. , Buesen Darren , Lubitz Wolfgang , Freier Erik , Plumeré Nicolas
Published: February 2020

Redox-active films were proposed as protective matrices for preventing oxidative deactivation of oxygen-sensitive catalysts such as hydrogenases for their use in fuel cells. However, the theoretical models predict quasi-infinite protection from oxygen and the aerobic half-life for hydrogenase-catalyzed hydrogen oxidation within redox films lasts only about a day. Here, we employ operando confocal microscopy to elucidate the deactivation processes. The hydrogen peroxide generated from incomplete reduction of oxygen induces the decomposition of the redox matrix rather than deactivation of the biocatalyst. We show that efficient dismutation of hydrogen peroxide by iodide extends the aerobic half-life of the catalytic film containing an oxygen-sensitive [NiFe] hydrogenase to over one week, approaching the experimental anaerobic half-life. Altogether, our data support the theory that redox films make the hydrogenases immune against the direct deactivation by oxygen and highlight the importance of suppressing hydrogen peroxide production in order to reach complete protection from oxidative stress.
CEP44 ensures the formation of bona fide centriole wall, a requirement for the centriole-to-centrosome conversion
Authors: Atorino Enrico S. , Hata Shoji , Funaya Charlotta , Neuner Annett , Schiebel Elmar
Published: February 2020

Centrosomes are essential organelles with functions in microtubule organization that duplicate once per cell cycle. The first step of centrosome duplication is the daughter centriole formation followed by the pericentriolar material recruitment to this centriole. This maturation step was termed centriole-to-centrosome conversion. It was proposed that CEP295-dependent recruitment of pericentriolar proteins drives centriole conversion. Here we show, based on the analysis of proteins that promote centriole biogenesis, that the developing centriole structure helps drive centriole conversion. Depletion of the luminal centriole protein CEP44 that binds to the A-microtubules and interacts with POC1B affecting centriole structure and centriole conversion, despite CEP295 binding to centrioles. Impairment of POC1B, TUBE1 or TUBD1, which disturbs integrity of centriole microtubules, also prevents centriole-to-centrosome conversion. We propose that the CEP295, CEP44, POC1B, TUBE1 and TUBD1 centriole biogenesis pathway that functions in the centriole lumen and on the cytoplasmic side is essential for the centriole-to-centrosome conversion.
Network analysis infers the wilt pathogen invasion associated with non-detrimental bacteria
Authors: Hu Qiulong , Tan Lin , Gu Songsong , Xiao Yansong , Xiong Xingyao , Zeng Wei-ai , Feng Kai , Wei Zhong , Deng Ye
Published: February 2020

The microbiota colonizing the root endophytic compartment and surrounding rhizosphere soils contribute to plant growth and health. However, the key members of plant soil and endophytic microbial communities involved in inhibiting or assisting pathogen invasion remain elusive. By utilizing 16S high-throughput sequencing and a molecular ecological network (MEN) approach, we systematically studied the interactions within bacterial communities in plant endophytic compartments (stem and root) and the surrounding soil (bulk and rhizosphere) during bacterial wilt invasion. The endophytic communities were found to be strongly influenced by pathogen invasion according to analysis of microbial diversity and community structure and composition. Endophytic communities of the infected plants were primarily derived from soil communities, as assessed by the SourceTracker program, but with rare migration from soil communities to endophytic communities observed in healthy plants. Soil and endophytic microbiomes from infected plants showed modular topology and greater complexity in network analysis, and a higher number of interactions than those in healthy plants. Furthermore, interactions among microbial members revealed that pathogenic Ralstonia members were positively correlated with several bacterial genera, including Delftia, Stenotrophomonas, Bacillus, Clostridium XlVa, Fontibacillus, Acidovorax, Herminiimonas, and three unclassified bacterial genera, in infected plant roots. Our findings indicated that the pathogen invasion in the rhizosphere and endophytic compartments may be highly associated with bacteria that are normally not detrimental, and sometimes even beneficial, to plants.
Topological phases of a dimerized Fermi–Hubbard model for semiconductor nano-lattices
Authors: Le Nguyen H. , Fisher Andrew J. , Curson Neil J. , Ginossar Eran
Published: February 2020

Motivated by recent advances in fabricating artificial lattices in semiconductors and their promise for quantum simulation of topological materials, we study the one-dimensional dimerized Fermi–Hubbard model. We show how the topological phases at half-filling can be characterized by a reduced Zak phase defined based on the reduced density matrix of each spin subsystem. Signatures of bulk–boundary correspondence are observed in the triplon excitation of the bulk and the edge states of uncoupled spins at the boundaries. At quarter-filling, we show that owing to the presence of the Hubbard interaction the system can undergo a transition to the topological ground state of the non-interacting Su–Schrieffer–Heeger model with the application of a moderate-strength external magnetic field. We propose a robust experimental realization with a chain of dopant atoms in silicon or gate-defined quantum dots in GaAs where the transition can be probed by measuring the tunneling current through the many-body state of the chain.
Modified mRNA/lipid nanoparticle-based vaccines expressing respiratory syncytial virus F protein variants are immunogenic and protective in rodent models of RSV infection
Authors: Espeseth Amy S. , Cejas Pedro J. , Citron Michael P. , Wang Dai , DiStefano Daniel J. , Callahan Cheryl , Donnell Gregory O’ , Galli Jennifer D. , Swoyer Ryan , Touch Sinoeun , Wen Zhiyun , Antonello Joseph , Zhang Lan , Flynn Jessica A. , Cox Kara S. , Freed Daniel C. , Vora Kalpit A. , Bahl Kapil , Latham Andrew H. , Smith Jeffrey S. , Gindy Marian E. , Ciaramella Giuseppe , Hazuda Daria , Shaw Christine A. , Bett Andrew J.
Published: February 2020

The RSV Fusion (F) protein is a target for neutralizing antibody responses and is a focus for vaccine discovery; however, the process of RSV entry requires F to adopt a metastable prefusion form and transition to a more stable postfusion form, which displays less potent neutralizing epitopes. mRNA vaccines encode antigens that are translated by host cells following vaccination, which may allow conformational transitions similar to those observed during natural infection to occur. Here we evaluate a panel of chemically modified mRNA vaccines expressing different forms of the RSV F protein, including secreted, membrane associated, prefusion-stabilized, and non-stabilized structures, for conformation, immunogenicity, protection, and safety in rodent models. Vaccination with mRNA encoding native RSV F elicited antibody responses to both prefusion- and postfusion-specific epitopes, suggesting that this antigen may adopt both conformations in vivo. Incorporating prefusion stabilizing mutations further shifts the immune response toward prefusion-specific epitopes, but does not impact neutralizing antibody titer. mRNA vaccine candidates expressing either prefusion stabilized or native forms of RSV F protein elicit robust neutralizing antibody responses in both mice and cotton rats, similar to levels observed with a comparable dose of adjuvanted prefusion stabilized RSV F protein. In contrast to the protein subunit vaccine, mRNA-based vaccines elicited robust CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses in mice, highlighting a potential advantage of the technology for vaccines requiring a cellular immune response for efficacy.
A single dose polyanhydride-based nanovaccine against paratuberculosis infection
Authors: Thukral Akanksha , Ross Kathleen , Hansen Chungyi , Phanse Yashdeep , Narasimhan Balaji , Steinberg Howard , Talaat Adel M.
Published: February 2020

Mycobacterium aviumsubsp. paratuberculosis(M. paratuberculosis) causes Johne’s disease in ruminants and is characterized by chronic gastroenteritis leading to heavy economic losses to the dairy industry worldwide. The currently available vaccine (inactivated bacterin in oil base) is not effective in preventing pathogen shedding and is rarely used to control Johne’s disease in dairy herds. To develop a better vaccine that can prevent the spread of Johne’s disease, we utilized polyanhydride nanoparticles (PAN) to encapsulate mycobacterial antigens composed of whole cell lysate (PAN-Lysate) and culture filtrate (PAN-Cf) ofM. paratuberculosis. These nanoparticle-based vaccines (i.e., nanovaccines) were well tolerated in mice causing no inflammatory lesions at the site of injection. Immunological assays demonstrated a substantial increase in the levels of antigen-specific T cell responses post-vaccination in the PAN-Cf vaccinated group as indicated by high percentages of triple cytokine (IFN-γ, IL-2, TNF-α) producing CD8+T cells. Following challenge, animals vaccinated with PAN-Cf continued to produce significant levels of double (IFN-γ, TNF-α) and single cytokine (IFN-γ) secreting CD8+T cells compared with animals vaccinated with an inactivated vaccine. A significant reduction in bacterial load was observed in multiple organs of animals vaccinated with PAN-Cf, which is a clear indication of protection. Overall, the use of polyanhydride nanovaccines resulted in development of protective and sustained immunity against Johne’s disease, an approach that could be applied to counter other intracellular pathogens.