bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Technology Is More Than Just Error
Authors: Grawitch Matthew J. , Winton Steven L. , Mudigonda Srikanth P. , Buerck John P.
Published: November 2017

Modern technology and technological advances offer a variety of benefits and challenges for assessment, data collection, communication, and other research- and practice-related endeavors. The focal article written by Morelli, Potosky, Arthur, and Tippins (2017) offers a segue into discussions about some of these issues. Although the authors offer some unique insights, we believe their view is incomplete, as it is potentially limited by their focus on testing and assessment. Below, we outline a few key points we hope will advance the conversation. Our commentary is largely grounded in the field of human–computer interaction (HCI), which is an interdisciplinary field that integrates expertise from computer science, psychology (and other behavioral sciences), and many other fields. Whereas psychology tends to place the human user at the forefront of discussions concerning technology, HCI expands beyond just the user's psychology, focusing on the design of interfaces that allow users to interact with computing technology in new ways (Card, Moran, & Newell, 1983).
Beyond Empirical Equivalence
Authors: Gibson Carter , Vaughn Daly , Hudy Mike
Published: November 2017

We wonder whether theory alone can solve problems and answer questions faced by practitioners working on the front lines of assessment innovation. Stated another way, to what degree can current theories influence the application of our work to new technology when it comes available? We are speaking as practitioners working in selection, the area in which technology has been studied most commonly in industrial-organizational (I-O) psychology (e.g., King, Ryan, Kantrowitz, Grelle, & Dainis, 2015). More specifically, we focus on the impact of mobile technology on our selection systems. We are excited for the focal article (Morelli, Potosky, Arthur, & Tippins, 2017) on theory development relative to technological advancement because much of the work we do in this area has not been discussed significantly in the literature. Our goal in this commentary is to review what we have learned about the implications of technology from our experience building and validating innovative prehire assessments.
The Big, Gig Picture: We Can't Assume the Same Constructs Matter
Authors: Brawley Alice M.
Published: November 2017

I am concerned about industrial and organizational (I-O) psychology's relevance to the gig economy, defined here as the broad trends toward technology-based platform work. This sort of work happens on apps like Uber (where the app connects drivers and riders) and sites like MTurk (where human intelligence tasks, or HITs, are advertised to workers on behalf of requesters). We carry on with I-O research and practice as if technology comprises only things (e.g., phones, websites, platforms) that we use to assess applicants and complete work. However, technology has much more radically restructured work as we know it, to happen in a much more piecemeal, on-demand fashion, reviving debates about worker classification and changing the reality of work for many workers (Sundararajan, 2016). Instead of studying technology as a thing we use, it's critical that we “zoom out” to see and adapt our field to this bigger picture of trends towards a gig economy. Rather than a phone being used to check work email or complete pre-hire assessments, technology and work are inseparable. For example, working on MTurk requires constant Internet access (Brawley, Pury, Switzer, & Saylors, 2017; Ma, Khansa, & Hou, 2016). Alarmingly, some researchers describe these workers as precarious (Spretizer, Cameron, & Garrett, 2017), dependent on an extremely flexible (a label that is perhaps euphemistic for unreliable) source of work. Although it's unlikely that all workers consider their “gig” a full time job or otherwise necessary income, at least some workers do: An estimated 10–40% of MTurk workers consider themselves serious gig workers (Brawley & Pury, 2016). Total numbers for the broader gig economy are only growing, with recent tax-based estimates including 34% of the US workforce now and up to 43% within 3 years (Gillespie, 2017). It appears we're seeing some trends in work reverse and return to piece work (e.g., a ride on Uber, a HIT on MTurk) as if we've simply digitized the assembly line (Davis, 2016). Over time, these trends could accelerate, and we could potentially see total elimination of work (Morrison, 2017).
Immune and neuroendocrine correlates of temperament in infancy
Authors: O'Connor Thomas G. , Scheible Kristin , Sefair Ana Vallejo , Gilchrist Michelle , Blackmore Emma Robertson , Winter Marcia A. , Gunnar Megan R. , Wyman Claire , Carnahan Jennifer , Moynihan Jan A. , Caserta Mary T.
Published: November 2017

There is now a clear focus on incorporating, and integrating, multiple levels of analysis in developmental science. The current study adds to research in this area by including markers of the immune and neuroendocrine systems in a longitudinal study of temperament in infants. Observational and parent-reported ratings of infant temperament, serum markers of the innate immune system, and cortisol reactivity from repeated salivary collections were examined in a sample of 123 infants who were assessed at 6 months and again when they were, on average, 17 months old. Blood from venipuncture was collected for analyses of nine select innate immune cytokines; salivary cortisol collected prior to and 15 min and 30 min following a physical exam including blood draw was used as an index of neuroendocrine functioning. Analyses indicated fairly minimal significant associations between biological markers and temperament at 6 months. However, by 17 months of age, we found reliable and nonoverlapping associations between observed fearful temperament and biological markers of the immune and neuroendocrine systems. The findings provide some of the earliest evidence of robust biological correlates of fear behavior with the immune system, and identify possible immune and neuroendocrine mechanisms for understanding the origins of behavioral development.
From child maltreatment to emerging adult problem drinking: Identification of a multilevel internalizing pathway among African American youth
Authors: Handley Elizabeth D. , Rogosch Fred A. , Cicchetti Dante
Published: November 2017

The present study tested the role of FKBP5 binding protein 5 (FKBP5) genetic variation in an internalizing pathway from child maltreatment to emerging adult problem drinking among a sample of African American youth (N= 280) followed prospectively from ages 11 to 20. Specifically, whether childhood internalizing symptoms and emerging adult tension reduction alcohol expectancies sequentially mediate the effect of child maltreatment on emerging adult problem drinking and whetherFKBP5moderates these associations were investigated. The results indicate that individuals with at least one copy of theFKBP5CATT haplotype (minor alleles) are more vulnerable to traversing the hypothesized internalizing pathway of risk than individuals without this genotypic profile. Taken together our findings highlight the importance ofFKBP5genetic variation in the context of early adversity; support the role of two prospective sequential mediators of an internalizing pathway to problematic drinking, namely, childhood internalizing symptoms and emerging adult tension reduction alcohol expectancies; and identify a subgroup of maltreated children most susceptible to progressing along this less common pathway of risk.
Methane- and dissolved organic carbon-fueled microbial loop supports a tropical subterranean estuary ecosystem
Authors: Brankovits D. , Pohlman J. W. , Niemann H. , Leigh M. B. , Leewis M. C. , Becker K. W. , Iliffe T. M. , Alvarez F. , Lehmann M. F. , Phillips B.
Published: November 2017

Subterranean estuaries extend inland into density-stratified coastal carbonate aquifers containing a surprising diversity of endemic animals (mostly crustaceans) within a highly oligotrophic habitat. How complex ecosystems (termed anchialine) thrive in this globally distributed, cryptic environment is poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that a microbial loop shuttles methane and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) to higher trophic levels of the anchialine food web in the Yucatan Peninsula (Mexico). Methane and DOC production and consumption within the coastal groundwater correspond with a microbial community capable of methanotrophy, heterotrophy, and chemoautotrophy, based on characterization by 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing and respiratory quinone composition. Fatty acid and bulk stable carbon isotope values of cave-adapted shrimp suggest that carbon from methanotrophic bacteria comprises 21% of their diet, on average. These findings reveal a heretofore unrecognized subterranean methane sink and contribute to our understanding of the carbon cycle and ecosystem function of karst subterranean estuaries.
Quantum-disordered state of magnetic and electric dipoles in an organic Mott system
Authors: Shimozawa M. , Hashimoto K. , Ueda A. , Suzuki Y. , Sugii K. , Yamada S. , Imai Y. , Kobayashi R. , Itoh K. , Iguchi S. , Naka M. , Ishihara S. , Mori H. , Sasaki T. , Yamashita M.
Published: November 2017

Strongly enhanced quantum fluctuations often lead to a rich variety of quantum-disordered states. Developing approaches to enhance quantum fluctuations may open paths to realize even more fascinating quantum states. Here, we demonstrate that a coupling of localized spins with the zero-point motion of hydrogen atoms, that is, proton fluctuations in a hydrogen-bonded organic Mott insulator provides a different class of quantum spin liquids (QSLs). We find that divergent dielectric behavior associated with the approach to hydrogen-bond order is suppressed by the quantum proton fluctuations, resulting in a quantum paraelectric (QPE) state. Furthermore, our thermal-transport measurements reveal that a QSL state with gapless spin excitations rapidly emerges upon entering the QPE state. These findings indicate that the quantum proton fluctuations give rise to a QSL—a quantum-disordered state of magnetic and electric dipoles—through the coupling between the electron and proton degrees of freedom.
Genetic and pharmacological inhibition of microRNA-92a maintains podocyte cell cycle quiescence and limits crescentic glomerulonephritis
Authors: Henique Carole , Bollée Guillaume , Loyer Xavier , Grahammer Florian , Dhaun Neeraj , Camus Marine , Vernerey Julien , Guyonnet Léa , Gaillard François , Lazareth Hélène , Meyer Charlotte , Bensaada Imane , Legrès Luc , Satoh Takashi , Akira Shizuo , Bruneval Patrick , Dimmeler Stefanie , Tedgui Alain , Karras Alexandre , Thervet Eric , Nochy Dominique , Huber Tobias B. , Mesnard Laurent , Lenoir Olivia , Tharaux Pierre-Louis
Published: November 2017

Crescentic rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis (RPGN) represents the most aggressive form of acquired glomerular disease. While most therapeutic approaches involve potentially toxic immunosuppressive strategies, the pathophysiology remains incompletely understood. Podocytes are glomerular epithelial cells that are normally growth-arrested because of the expression of cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitors. An exception is in RPGN where podocytes undergo a deregulation of their differentiated phenotype and proliferate. Here we demonstrate that microRNA-92a (miR-92a) is enriched in podocytes of patients and mice with RPGN. The CDK inhibitor p57Kip2 is a major target of miR-92a that constitutively safeguards podocyte cell cycle quiescence. Podocyte-specific deletion of miR-92a in mice de-repressed the expression of p57Kip2 and prevented glomerular injury in RPGN. Administration of an anti-miR-92a after disease initiation prevented albuminuria and kidney failure, indicating miR-92a inhibition as a potential therapeutic strategy for RPGN. We demonstrate that miRNA induction in epithelial cells can break glomerular tolerance to immune injury.
Mantle hydration and the role of water in the generation of large igneous provinces
Authors: Liu Jia , Xia Qun-Ke , Kuritani Takeshi , Hanski Eero , Yu Hao-Ran
Published: November 2017

The genesis of large igneous provinces (LIP) is controlled by multiple factors including anomalous mantle temperatures, the presence of fusible fertile components and volatiles in the mantle source, and the extent of decompression. The lack of a comprehensive examination of all these factors in one specific LIP makes the mantle plume model debatable. Here, we report estimates of the water content in picrites from the Emeishan LIP in southwestern China. Although these picrites display an island arc-like H2O content (up to 3.4 by weight percent), the trace element characteristics do not support a subduction zone setting but point to a hydrous reservoir in the deep mantle. Combining with previous studies, we propose that hydrous and hot plumes occasionally appeared in the Phanerozoic era to produce continental LIPs (e.g., Tarim, Siberian Trap, Karoo). The wide sampling of hydrous reservoirs in the deep mantle by mantle plumes thus indicates that the Earth’s interior is largely hydrated.
Zero-field edge plasmons in a magnetic topological insulator
Authors: Mahoney Alice C. , Colless James I. , Peeters Lucas , Pauka Sebastian J. , Fox Eli J. , Kou Xufeng , Pan Lei , Wang Kang L. , Goldhaber-Gordon David , Reilly David J.
Published: November 2017

Incorporating ferromagnetic dopants into three-dimensional topological insulator thin films has recently led to the realisation of the quantum anomalous Hall effect. These materials are of great interest since they may support electrical currents that flow without resistance, even at zero magnetic field. To date, the quantum anomalous Hall effect has been investigated using low-frequency transport measurements. However, transport results can be difficult to interpret due to the presence of parallel conductive paths, or because additional non-chiral edge channels may exist. Here we move beyond transport measurements by probing the microwave response of a magnetised disk of Cr-(Bi,Sb)2Te3. We identify features associated with chiral edge plasmons, a signature that robust edge channels are intrinsic to this material system. Our results provide a measure of the velocity of edge excitations without contacting the sample, and pave the way for an on-chip circuit element of practical importance: the zero-field microwave circulator.
Predictive feedback to V1 dynamically updates with sensory input
Authors: Edwards Grace , Vetter Petra , McGruer Fiona , Petro Lucy S. , Muckli Lars
Published: November 2017

Predictive coding theories propose that the brain creates internal models of the environment to predict upcoming sensory input. Hierarchical predictive coding models of vision postulate that higher visual areas generate predictions of sensory inputs and feed them back to early visual cortex. In V1, sensory inputs that do not match the predictions lead to amplified brain activation, but does this amplification process dynamically update to new retinotopic locations with eye-movements? We investigated the effect of eye-movements in predictive feedback using functional brain imaging and eye-tracking whilst presenting an apparent motion illusion. Apparent motion induces an internal model of motion, during which sensory predictions of the illusory motion feed back to V1. We observed attenuated BOLD responses to predicted stimuli at the new post-saccadic location in V1. Therefore, pre-saccadic predictions update their retinotopic location in time for post-saccadic input, validating dynamic predictive coding theories in V1.
Diverse Changes of Circulating Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 Levels in Hepatitis B Virus-Related Diseases
Authors: Wu Liang , Pan Qingchun , Wu Guangyu , Qian Lingling , Zhang Jing , Zhang Lei , Fang Qichen , Zang Guoqing , Wang Yudong , Lau George , Li Huating , Jia Weiping
Published: November 2017

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21), a stress-induced hormone in the liver, has been shown the protective functions in pathological conditions. The study investigated the association of circulating FGF21 with hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and its related diseases. Serum FGF21 levels were measured in 33 acute hepatitis B (AHB), 75 chronic hepatitis B (CHB) and 66 CHB patients with advanced liver diseases including liver cirrhosis, acute-on-chronic liver failure (ALCF) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) together with 200 age- and BMI-matched healthy controls. FGF21 levels were significantly increased in AHB patients and rapidly returned to normal levels after treatment. FGF21 levels reflected the degree of liver injury caused by AHB. However, serum FGF21 levels were decreased in CHB patients especially in those who developed cirrhosis and were associated with hepatic protein synthesis capacity. Serum FGF21 in CHB patients were increased with the occurrence of ACLF. Notably, in CHB patients who developed HCC, serum FGF21 exhibited a dramatic increase, which may provide important information on monitoring tumorigenesis in CHB patients. In conclusion, we revealed the diverse changes of circulating FGF21 in HBV-related diseases. FGF21 may be a useful biomarker in monitoring the tumorigenesis in patients with CHB.
Topological States Characterized by Mirror Winding Numbers in Graphene with Bond Modulation
Authors: Kariyado Toshikaze , Hu Xiao
Published: November 2017

Localized electrons appear at the zigzag-shaped edge of graphene due to quantum interference. Here we propose a way for harnessing the edge electronic states to make them mobile, by incorporating a topological view point. The manipulation required is to introduce a pattern of strong-weak bonds between neighboring carbon atoms, and to put side by side two graphene sheets with strong-weak alternation conjugating to each other. The electrons with up and down pseudospins propagate in opposite directions at the interface, similar to the prominent quantum spin Hall effect. The system is characterized by a topological index, the mirror winding number, with its root lying in the Su-Schrieffer-Heeger model for polymer. Taking this point of view, one is rewarded by several ways for decorating graphene edge which result in similar mobile electronic states with topological protection. This work demonstrates that celebrated nanotechnology can be used to derive topological states.
Comparison of two-year outcomes after photodynamic therapy with ranibizumab or aflibercept for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy
Authors: Kikushima Wataru , Sakurada Yoichi , Sugiyama Atsushi , Yoneyama Seigo , Tanabe Naohiko , Matsubara Mio , Mabuchi Fumihiko , Iijima Hiroyuki
Published: November 2017

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) combined with intravitreal anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) agents is currently the first-line treatment for polypoidal choroidal vasculopathy (PCV), along with anti-VEGF monotherapy. In this study, 100 eyes with treatment-naïve PCV were initially treated with PDT combined with intravitreal ranibizumab (IVR; n = 57) or aflibercept (IVA; n = 43). We compared two-year outcomes between these two groups and investigated factors associated with visual improvement and retreatment over 24 months. Best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was significantly improved in both groups (P < 0.001) at 24 months. Multiple regression analysis revealed that visual improvement at 24 months was associated with female (P = 0.030), worse baseline BCVA (P = 3.0 × 10−6), smaller greatest linear dimension (GLD; P = 2.0 × 10−4), and treatment with IVA rather than IVR (P = 0.016). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that absence of retreatment was associated with younger age (P = 2.2 × 10−4), female (P = 1.2 × 10−3), and the non-risk variants of ARMS2 A69S (P = 6.0 × 10−4). Although there were no significant differences in the retreatment rate between the two groups, PDT/IVA may be superior to PDT/IVR in terms of visual improvement at 24 months.
Dynamic modulation of the perceptual load on microsaccades during a selective spatial attention task
Authors: Xue Linyan , Huang Dan , Wang Tong , Hu Qiyi , Chai Xinyu , Li Liming , Chen Yao
Published: November 2017

Selective spatial attention enhances task performance at restricted regions within the visual field. The magnitude of this effect depends on the level of attentional load, which determines the efficiency of distractor rejection. Mechanisms of attentional load include perceptual selection and/or cognitive control involving working memory. Recent studies have provided evidence that microsaccades are influenced by spatial attention. Therefore, microsaccade activities may be exploited to help understand the dynamic control of selective attention under different load levels. However, previous reports in humans on the effect of attentional load on microsaccades are inconsistent, and it is not clear to what extent these results and the dynamic changes of microsaccade activities are similar in monkeys. We trained monkeys to perform a color detection task in which the perceptual load was manipulated by task difficulty with limited involvement of working memory. Our results indicate that during the task with high perceptual load, the rate and amplitude of microsaccades immediately before the target color change were significantly suppressed. We also found that the occurrence of microsaccades before the monkeys’ detection response deteriorated their performance, especially in the hard task. We propose that the activity of microsaccades might be an efficacious indicator of the perceptual load.
Interventions for management of post-stroke depression: A Bayesian network meta-analysis of 23 randomized controlled trials
Authors: Deng Linghui , Sun Xuejun , Qiu Shi , Xiong Yao , Li Yuxiao , Wang Lu , Wei Qiang , Wang Deren , Liu Ming
Published: November 2017

Post-stroke depression (PSD) is an important complication of stroke, leading to increased disability and mortality. Given that there is no consensus on which treatment is optimal for PSD, we aimed to evaluate the relative efficacies of available pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. We conducted a network meta-analysis to incorporate evidence from relevant trials and provide direct and indirect comparisons. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Embase until November 1, 2016 for randomized controlled trials involving different pharmacological and non-pharmacological PSD treatment interventions. The primary outcome was reduction in the Hamilton depression scale (HAMD) score. This study is registered with PROSPERO (number, CRD42016049049). Of a total of 1,152 studies, 23 randomized trials comprising 1,542 participants were included. Nine PSD treatment interventions were considered. Noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (NRI) was associated with the highest reduction in the HAMD score, followed by tricyclic antidepressant (TCA), psychotherapy plus antidepressant, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This study indicated that NRIs, SSRIs, and TCAs are associated with a considerable higher HAMD score reduction compared with the control treatment. rTMS is a beneficial therapeutic approach for managing PSD to obtain good response to treatments compared with the control treatment.
Differential effects on membrane permeability and viability of human keratinocyte cells undergoing very low intensity megasonic fields
Authors: Domenici F. , Brasili F. , Giantulli S. , Cerroni B. , Bedini A. , Giliberti C. , Palomba R. , Silvestri I. , Morrone S. , Paradossi G. , Mattei M. , Bordi F.
Published: November 2017

Among different therapeutic applications of Ultrasound (US), transient membrane sonoporation (SP) - a temporary, non-lethal porosity, mechanically induced in cell membranes through US exposure - represents a compelling opportunity towards an efficient and safe drug delivery. Nevertheless, progresses in this field have been limited by an insufficient understanding of the potential cytotoxic effects of US related to the failure of the cellular repair and to the possible activation of inflammatory pathway. In this framework we studied the in vitro effects of very low-intensity US on a human keratinocyte cell line, which represents an ideal model system of skin protective barrier cells which are the first to be involved during medical US treatments. Bioeffects linked to US application at 1 MHz varying the exposure parameters were investigated by fluorescence microscopy and fluorescence activated cell sorting. Our results indicate that keratinocytes undergoing low US doses can uptake drug model molecules with size and efficiency which depend on exposure parameters. According to sub-cavitation SP models, we have identified the range of doses triggering transient membrane SP, actually with negligible biological damage. By increasing US doses we observed a reduced cells viability and an inflammatory gene overexpression enlightening novel healthy relevant strategies.
Proof of concept for a passive sampler for monitoring of gaseous elemental mercury in artisanal gold mining
Authors: de Barros Santos Elias , Moher Paleah , Ferlin Stacy , Fostier Anne Hélène , Mazali Italo Odone , Telmer Kevin , Brolo Alexandre Guimarães
Published: November 2017

Mercury emissions from artisanal gold mining operations occurring in roughly 80 developing countries are a major workplace health hazard for millions of people as well as the largest contributor to global mercury pollution. There are no portable, cheap, and rapid methods able to inform workers or health practitioners of mercury exposureon sitein remote locations. In this work, a proof of concept for a miniaturized mercury sampler, prepared by the direct reduction of gold into the porous nanostructures of Vycor glass (PVG), is introduced. Mercury retention on the PVG/Au sampler induces significant color changes, due to the formation of Au-Hg amalgam that affects the surface plasmon resonance characteristics of the material. The color change can potentially be quantified by the analysis of pictures obtained with a cell phone camera rapidly and onsite. Laboratory experiments showed the viability of using PVG/Au as passive sampler for monitoring of Hg°. PVG/Au samplers were then deployed in an artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) operations in Burkina Faso and it was able to indicate personal mercury exposures. The amount of mercury quantified in the samplers for all miners was higher than the current personal exposure limit set by the US Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA).
Accurate quantification of homologous recombination in zebrafish: brca2 deficiency as a paradigm
Authors: Vierstraete Jeroen , Willaert Andy , Vermassen Petra , Coucke Paul J. , Vral Anne , Claes Kathleen B. M.
Published: November 2017

Homologous Recombination (HR) repair is essential for repairing DNA double strand breaks (DSB) in dividing cells and preventing tumorigenesis. BRCA2 plays an important role in HR by recruiting the DNA recombinase RAD51 to the DSB. Despite being a popular model organism in genetic and cancer research, knowledge on the conservation of the HR pathway and function of zebrafish Brca2 is limited. To evaluate this, we developed a Rad51 foci assay in zebrafish embryos. We identified the zebrafish embryonic intestinal tissue as an ideal target for Rad51 immunostaining. After inducing DSB through irradiation, Rad51 foci were present in irradiated embryos but not in unirradiated controls. We present a method for accurate quantification of HR. Both morpholino-induced knockdown and knockout of Brca2 lead to almost complete absence of Rad51 foci in irradiated embryos. These findings indicate conserved function of Brca2 in zebrafish. Interestingly, a statistically significant decrease in Rad51 foci was observed in Brca2 heterozygous carriers compared to wild types, indicative of haploinsufficiency, a hypothesised cause of some tumours in patients with a germline BRCA2 mutation. In conclusion, we demonstrated the suitability of zebrafish as an excellent in vivo model system for studying the HR pathway and its functionality.
Cell-free protein synthesis from non-growing, stressed Escherichia coli
Authors: Failmezger Jurek , Rauter Michael , Nitschel Robert , Kraml Michael , Siemann-Herzberg Martin
Published: November 2017

Cell-free protein synthesis is a versatile protein production system. Performance of the protein synthesis depends on highly active cytoplasmic extracts. Extracts from E. coli are believed to work best; they are routinely obtained from exponential growing cells, aiming to capture the most active translation system. Here, we report an active cell-free protein synthesis system derived from cells harvested at non-growth, stressed conditions. We found a downshift of ribosomes and proteins. However, a characterization revealed that the stoichiometry of ribosomes and key translation factors was conserved, pointing to a fully intact translation system. This was emphasized by synthesis rates, which were comparable to those of systems obtained from fast-growing cells. Our approach is less laborious than traditional extract preparation methods and multiplies the yield of extract per cultivation. This simplified growth protocol has the potential to attract new entrants to cell-free protein synthesis and to broaden the pool of applications. In this respect, a translation system originating from heat stressed, non-growing E. coli enabled an extension of endogenous transcription units. This was demonstrated by the sigma factor depending activation of parallel transcription. Our cell-free expression platform adds to the existing versatility of cell-free translation systems and presents a tool for cell-free biology.
Morphology-dependent oxygen vacancies and synergistic effects of Ni/CeO2 catalysts for N2O decomposition
Authors: Zhao Pei , Qin Feng , Huang Zhen , Sun Chao , Shen Wei , Xu Hualong
Published: November 2017

Strong morphology-dependent oxygen vacancies and synergistic effects of Ni/CeO2 catalysts and their vital effects on N2O decomposition.
Removal of carbon nanomaterials by co-precipitation with chitosan: a facile method for water pre-treatment
Authors: Soenaryo Tirto , Zinchenko Anatoly , Murata Shizuaki
Published: November 2017

Co-precipitation of engineered nanomaterials (ENM) with chitosan provides efficient entrapment and removal technology for cleaning water of nanoscale matter.
Quillaja saponin-based hollow salt particles as solid carriers for enhancing sensory aroma with reduced sodium intake
Authors: Chen Xiao-Wei , Yang Dan-Xia , Guo Jian , Ruan Qi-Jun , Yang Xiao-Quan
Published: November 2017

QS-based hollow salt particles were developed that improve flavor performance with reduced sodium intake.
A comparison of high throughput core–shell 2D electrospinning and 3D centrifugal spinning techniques to produce platelet lyophilisate-loaded fibrous scaffolds and their effects on skin cells
Authors: Vocetkova K. , Buzgo M. , Sovkova V. , Rampichova M. , Staffa A. , Filova E. , Lukasova V. , Doupnik M. , Fiori F. , Amler E.
Published: November 2017

Nanofibres enriched with bioactive molecules, as actively acting scaffolds, play an important role in tissue engineering.
Structural changes in equimolar ceria–hafnia materials under solar thermochemical looping conditions: cation ordering, formation and stability of the pyrochlore structure
Authors: Rothensteiner Matthäus , Bonk Alexander , Vogt Ulrich F. , Emerich Hermann , van Bokhoven Jeroen A.
Published: November 2017

Equimolar ceria–hafnia oxides form a pyrochlore Ce2Hf2O7 under the reducing conditions of a solar thermochemical looping reactor for the two-step dissociation of water or carbon dioxide.
Distinctive electronic transport in pyridine-based devices with narrow graphene nanoribbon electrodes
Authors: Li Jie , Duan Yunrui , Zhou Yi , Li Tao , Zhao Zhenyang , Yin Long-Wei , Li Hui
Published: November 2017

Two kinds of pyridine-based molecular devices with the same narrow ZGNR electrodes show different and distinctive non-equilibrium electron transport properties.
Salinity effect on production of PHA and EPS byHaloferax mediterranei
Authors: Cui You-Wei , Gong Xiao-Yu , Shi Yun-Peng , Wang Zhiwu (Drew)
Published: November 2017

Salinity effect on production of PHA and EPS byHaloferax mediterranei.
Peptide nucleic acid-templated selenocystine–selenoester ligation enables rapid miRNA detection
Authors: Sayers Jessica , Payne Richard J. , Winssinger Nicolas
Published: November 2017

A PNA-templated peptide ligation reaction has been developed between selenocystine and selenoesters. The methodology was used for the sequence specific detection of miRNA at low concentrations.
Surface-immobilized and self-shaped DNA hydrogels and their application in biosensing
Authors: Mao Xiaoxia , Chen Guifang , Wang Zihan , Zhang Yuanguang , Zhu Xiaoli , Li Genxi
Published: November 2017

Surface-immobilized pure DNA hydrogels were formed using a surficial primer-induced strategy and adopted as scaffold materials for biosensing applications.
Rapid contour detection for image classification
Authors: Rasche Christoph
Published: November 2017

The author introduces a contour detection method that has relatively low complexity yet still highly accurate. The method is based on extrema detection along the four principal orientations, a trick that can be used to detect not only edges but, in particular, also ridges and rivers. The author makes a comparison to the popular Canny algorithm and shows that the proposed method's only downside is that it cannot detect very high curvatures in edge contours. The method is applied to the task of image classification (satellite images, Caltech‐101, etc.) and it is demonstrated that the use of all three contour types (edges, ridges, and rives) improves classification accuracy as opposed to the use of only edge contours. Thus, for image classification, it is more important to extract multiple contour features; the use of the exact detection method appears to play a smaller role. The author's simple method is also appealing for use in individual frames, due to its low complexity.
The bang-bang property of time and norm optimal control problems for parabolic equations with time-varying fractional Laplacian
Authors: Yu Xin , Zhang Liang
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we establish the bang-bang property of time and norm optimal control problems for parabolic equations governed by time-varying fractional Laplacian, evolved in a bounded domain of ℝd. We firstly get a quantitative unique continuation at one point in time for parabolic equations governed by time-varying fractional Laplacian. Then, we establish an observability inequality from measurable sets in time for solutions of the above-mentioned equations. Finally, with the aid of the observability inequality, the bang-bang property of time and norm optimal control problems can be obtained.
A Dorsal Approach for Ulnar Shortening Osteotomy
Authors: Notermans Bo , Maarse Wiesje , Schuurman Arnold
Published: November 2017

Aim This study aims to evaluate the long-term complications, results, and patient satisfaction rates of a dorsally approached ulnar shortening osteotomy for ulnar impaction syndrome.

Methods A retrospective chart review of 20 patients was performed. Primary outcomes of interest were subjective, measured using the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) score, Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score, and the third questionnaire about patient satisfaction, composed by the authors. Secondary outcomes included hardware removal due to irritation and other complications.

Results Mean postoperative functional score of PRWE was 28 (standard deviation [SD], 30) and DASH 20 (SD, 26), respectively. Fifteen patients were satisfied with the operation. Removal of hardware was noted in six patients. In one patient plate breakage occurred.

Conclusion Similar postoperative functional scores and complications were seen in patients undergoing an ulnar shortening osteotomy with a dorsally placed plate for ulnar impaction syndrome, compared with other plate placement localizations. The incidence of plate removal is also comparable to previously described results. As the dorsally placed plate and freehand technique, are relatively easy, we feel that it has a place in the treatment of ulnar impaction syndrome.

Level of Evidence Level IV, retrospective cohort study.
Der parteiische Gutachter – das unbekannte Wesen
Authors: Meins Wolfgang
Published: November 2017

In der veröffentlichten wissenschaftlichen Diskussion wird dem Thema des parteiischen medizinischen Gutachters bzw. Gutachtens bisher so gut
wie keine Beachtung geschenkt. Vor dem Hintergrund einer langjährigen gutachterlichen Tätigkeit als Nervenarzt zu zivil- und
sozialrechtlichen Fragen wird erstmals versucht, die Problematik systematisch zu beschreiben und zu analysieren. Neben definitorischen
Fragen geht es dabei v. a. um mögliche Kennzeichen parteiischer Gutachten – unter besonderer Berücksichtigung der Rolle von Versicherungs-
und Privatgutachtern. Abschließend werden Vorschläge zur Prävention und besseren Erfassung von parteiischen Gutachten zur Diskussion
gestellt.
Impact of Type of Sport, Gender and Age on Red Blood Cell Deformability of Elite Athletes
Authors: Tomschi Fabian , Bloch Wilhelm , Grau Marijke
Published: November 2017

Our objective was to detect possible differences in red blood cell (RBC) deformability of elite athletes performing different types of sports and being of different age and gender.182 athletes were included in this cross-sectional study. RBC deformability was measured using the laser-assisted optical rotational cell-analyzer. Maximal elongation index (EI max) and shear stress at half-maximum deformation (SS 1/2) were calculated. The ratio SS 1/2 /EI max (EI Ratio) was calculated with low values representing high RBC deformation. Hematocrit (Hct) and mean cellular volume (MCV) were determined in venous blood. Overall RBC deformability did not differ between male and female athletes but, when separated by age of the subjects, RBC deformability increased with age in male but not in female athletes. RBC deformability was lower in Combat sports compared other sport groups. Hct was higher in male compared to female athletes while no difference was observed for MCV. MCV and Hct increased with increasing age. A negative correlation was found between the EI Ratio and MCV and between EI Ratio and Hct. Conclusion: RBC deformability is influenced by age and endurance rate of the sport which suggests that the RBC system may adapt to changing conditions such as adolescence with the onset effects of sex hormones or physical exercise.
Effect of Melatonin Supplementation on Antioxidant Status and DNA Damage in High Intensity Trained Athletes
Authors: Ortiz-Franco Manuel , Planells Elena , Quintero Bartholomé , Acuña-Castroviejo Dario , Rusanova Iryna , Escames Germaine , Molina-López Jorge
Published: November 2017

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of melatonin supplementation on antioxidant capacity and DNA damage in high intensity interval training (HIIT) athletes. A 2-week randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial with two groups was conducted. Placebo (PG) and melatonin (MG) (20 mg/d) athletes were monitored over a two-week period of HIIT and strength training. The total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and the glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were analysed in blood samples. DNA damage was measured in isolated lymphocytes by comet assay prior to and immediately after exercise. The supplementation increased plasma melatonin levels in the melatonin-treated group (p<0.05) after two weeks of intervention. Analysis of antioxidant status indicated higher (p<0.05) TAC and GPx in MG than PG post-intervention. No differences were found in SOD enzyme activity. DNA damage was diminished in MG (p<0.05) compared to PG in post-training conditions. Antioxidant status was associated with DNA damage (r=-0.679; p=0.047) in the melatonin-treated athletes. The present study suggest that melatonin supplementation improves antioxidant status and may prove to have beneficial effects preventing DNA damage induced by high intensity training.
Stationäre psychodynamisch orientierte multimodale Therapie von Patienten mit Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung: Wirksamkeit, Response und Drop-out
Authors: del Pozo Melina , Kliem Sören , Mestel Robert , Votsmeier-Röhr Achim , Kröger Christoph
Published: November 2017

Psychodynamisch orientierte multimodale Therapien haben sich in der ambulanten Behandlung der Borderline-Persönlichkeitsstörung (BPD) als wirksam erwiesen. Bisher hat keine Studie über Wirksamkeit, Response und Drop-out eines psychodynamisch orientierten multimodalen Therapieansatzes im stationären Setting (PDOMK) berichtet. In dieser Studie wurden die Ergebnisse von 269 Patienten, die an einer 3-monatigen stationären Therapie teilgenommen haben, mit Ergebnissen aus früheren Studien verglichen. Als wichtigster Indikator für den Therapieerfolg wurde das Borderline-Persönlichkeits-Inventar (CUT-20-R) herangezogen. Therapieerfolg wurde in Effektstärken (ES) sowie Response- und Remissionsraten ausgedrückt. Im Prä-Post-Vergleich des CUT-20-R betrug die ES 0,74. Die Responserate betrug 34,6% und die Remissionsrate 2,6%. 50,6% der teilnehmenden Patienten zeigten keine Veränderung in ihrer BPD-spezifischen Symptomatik, 6,7% verschlechterten sich und 27,5% beendeten die Therapie vorzeitig. Das Dropout-Risiko war bei Männern sowie Patienten mit einer abhängigen Persönlichkeitsstörung erhöht. Die Ergebnisse sprechen dafür, dass PDOMK bei einigen, jedoch nicht bei allen BPD-Patienten wirksam sein kann. Aufgrund der methodischen Einschränkungen dieser Studie sollten zukünftige Arbeiten die Wirksamkeit von PDOMK in einem randomisiert-kontrollierten Design untersuchen.
Effects of the ACTN3 R577X Genotype on the Muscular Strength and Range of Motion Before and After Eccentric Contractions of the Elbow Flexors
Authors: Kikuchi Naoki , Tsuchiya Yosuke , Nakazato Koichi , Ishii Naokata , Ochi Eisuke
Published: November 2017

The purpose of present study was to examine the association between ACTN3 R577X genotype and functional characteristics of elbow flexors before and after isokinetic eccentric contractions (ECCs). Fifty-two men (age: 20.8±3.8 years, height: 172.5±5.9 cm, body mass: 64.7±6.5 kg, BMI: 21.7±1.7) who had not participated in any regular resistance training for at least 1 year prior to this study were recruited. ECCs consisted of five sets of six maximal voluntary isokinetic (30°/s) ECCs of the elbow flexors with a range of motion (ROM) from 90° flexion to 0° (full extension). Measurements of maximal voluntary isometric contraction (MVC) torque, ROM, and muscle soreness were taken before, immediately after, and 1, 2, 3, and 5 days after ECCs. Genotyping results were analyzed for identifying ACTN3 R577X polymorphism (rs1815739) using TaqMan approach. The genotype frequencies of the ACTN3 R577X polymorphism were RR 26.9% (n=14), RX 50.0% (n=26), and XX 23.1% (n=12). There were no significant differences in MVC torque, ROM, and soreness between three genotype groups of ACTN3 R577X. However, MVC at baseline was greater in RR homozygotes than in X-allele carriers (combined XX and RX; p<0.05). ROM in RR homozygotes at baseline was lower than that of X-allele carriers. Although a significant decrease in ROM was observed in X-allele carriers until 3 days after ECCs, a significant ROM reduction in RR homozygotes was observed only immediately after ECCs. Our data indicated that ACTN3 RR genotype has higher MVC and lower flexibility than X-allele carriers at baseline, but the effect of ACTN3 R577X genotype on these two parameters is limited after ECCs.
What Else Is in Salviae officinalis folium? Comprehensive Species Identification of Plant Raw Material by DNA Metabarcoding
Authors: Schmiderer Corinna , Lukas Brigitte , Ruzicka Joana , Novak Johannes
Published: November 2017

Quality control of drugs consists of identifying the raw material to avoid unwanted admixtures or exchange of material as well as looking for abiotic and biotic contaminations. So far, identity and microbial contamination are analyzed by separate processes and separate methods. Species identification by their DNA (“DNA barcoding”) has the potential to supplement existing methods of identification. The introduction of next-generation sequencing methods offers completely new approaches like the identification of whole communities in one analysis, termed “DNA metabarcoding”. Here we present a next-generation sequencing assessment to identify plants and fungi of two commercial sage samples (Salvia officinalis) using the standard DNA barcoding region “internal transcribed spacer” consisting of internal transcribed spacer 1 and internal transcribed spacer 2, respectively. The main species in both samples was identified as S. officinalis. The spectrum of accompanying plant and fungal species, however, was completely different between the samples. Additionally, the composition between internal transcribed spacer 1 and internal transcribed spacer 2 within the samples was different and demonstrated the influence of primer selection and therefore the need for harmonization. This next-generation sequencing approach does not result in quantitative species composition but gives deeper insight into the composition of additional species. Therefore, it would allow for a better knowledge-based risk assessment than any other method available. However, the method is only economically feasible in routine analysis if a high sample throughput can be guaranteed.
Performance of coordinated FACTS and energy storage devices in combined multiarea ALFC and AVR system
Authors: Rajbongshi Rumi , Saikia Lalit Chandra
Published: November 2017

This paper emphasizes the impact of a coordinated flexible AC transmission system (FACTS) and energy storage devices in the combined automatic load frequency control and automatic voltage regulator model of a multiarea system having reheat thermal, wind, solar thermal, and diesel units in each area. The generation rate constraints and the governor dead band for the thermal plant are considered. A fractional integral derivative controller with filter (FOIDF) is proposed for this model, and the lightning search algorithm is implemented to optimize the controller parameters. The comparative analysis of FOIDF with integer order controllers shows the superiority of the former to others. The system performance with different area capacity ratios demonstrates the significant effect of the same on the system dynamics. Analyses reflect the satisfactory performance of the proposed renewable integrated system with a drastic change in step load perturbation. Investigation of the integration of FACTS devices like a thyristor controlled series capacitor, a static synchronous series compensator, and an interline power flow controller (IPFC) indicates that the inclusion of FACTS devices improves the system dynamics and IPFC is better among these. Analysis of the effect of energy storage devices such as capacitive energy storage (CES) and superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) in coordination with IPFC reveals that energy storage devices along with FACTS enhance the system responses and IPFC-SMES is much better than IPFC-CES. The investigation indicates that IPFC inbetween Area1 and Area3 and SMES in Area1 are the optimal locations. Sensitivity analysis reflects that the proposed controller parameters are not required to be optimized again for changing system conditions.