bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auf dem Weg zu kultursensitiven Patienteninformationsmaterialien: Ergebnisse einer Fokusgruppenuntersuchung
Authors: Ries Zivile , Frank Fabian , Bermejo Isaac , Kalaitsidou Chariklia , Zill Jördis , Dirmaier Jörg , Härter Martin , Bengel Jürgen , Hölzel Lars
Published: September 2017

Zielsetzung Die Studie war ein Teil einer größeren, randomisiert-kontrollierten Studie, in der die Effekte kultursensitiver Patienteninformationsmaterialien (PIM) im Vergleich mit übersetzten PIM evaluiert wurden. Die vorliegende Studie hatte zum Ziel, Daten zur Entwicklung von PIM zu unipolarer Depression für die 4 größten Gruppen von Menschen mit Migrationshintergrund (türkischer, polnischer, russischer und italienischer Migrationshintergrund) in Deutschland zu gewinnen.

Methode Im Rahmen einer qualitativen Studie wurde pro Migrantengruppe jeweils eine leitfadenbasierte Fokusgruppe (FG) mit insgesamt n=29 Teilnehmenden (n=9 mit türkischem (TüG), n=8 polnischem (PoG), n=5 russischem (RuG), n=7 italienischem (ItG) Migrationshintergrund) durchgeführt, aufgezeichnet, transkribiert und mittels eines qualitativ-inhaltsanalytischen Analysemodells ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse Es konnten 7 Kategorien identifiziert werden. Über alle 4 FG wurde kulturübergreifend als wichtig die (1.) Gestaltung einer guten kultursensitiven PIM durch eine einfache Sprache, eine klare Struktur, einen überschaubareren Informationsumfang sowie die Vermeidung von Stereotypien erachtet. (2.) Informationsdefizite über das Gesundheitssystem zeigten sich v. a. bei der RuG und der PoG. Bezogen auf das (3.) Krankheitsbild der Depression wurden von der RuG Schwierigkeiten bzgl. des Erkennens und des Verstehens einer Depression beschrieben. In der PoG, der RuG und der TüG wurde die (4.) befürchteten Folgen der Erkrankung sowie der Inanspruchnahme professioneller Hilfe thematisiert. In den ItG, PoG und RuG wurden Angstgefühle aufgrund von Wissenslücken im Zusammenhang mit (5.) Psychopharmaka beschrieben. In der Kategorie (6.) Arzt-Patienten-Beziehung konnten kulturspezifische Besonderheiten für die RuG und die TüG und in der Kategorie (7.) migrations- und kulturspezifische Depressionsursachen für die RuG, die ItG und die TüG identifiziert werden.

Schlussfolgerung Obwohl einige Kategorien kulturübergreifend für alle bzw. für die Mehrheit untersuchter Migrantengruppen eine Relevanz zeigten, waren bei einer Vielzahl von Kategorien kulturelle Spezifika erkennbar. Dies spricht für die Wichtigkeit einer kultursensitiven Anpassung von PIM.
Psychometrische Eigenschaften der deutschen Version des Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire Revised (SBQ-R)
Authors: Glaesmer Heide , Kapusta Nestor , Teismann Tobias , Wagner Birgit , Hallensleben Nina , Spangenberg Lena , Forkmann Thomas
Published: September 2017

Einleitung Zur ökonomischen Erfassung suizidaler Erlebens- und Verhaltensweisen findet der Suicide Behaviors Questionnaire – Revised (SBQ-R) von Osman und Kollegen breiten Einsatz. Dieser Fragebogen umfasst 4 Items, die verschiedene Facetten von Suizidalität erfassen und weist einige Einschränkungen auf. So sind die 4 Items nicht gleich skaliert und haben z. T. einen unterschiedlichen zeitlichen Bezug. Einige Antwortalternativen zu Item 1 und 3 sind mit dem gleichen Score belegt – es wird somit keine klare Schweregraddifferenzierung bezüglich verschiedener Aspekte von Suizidalität vorgenommen. Bislang liegen weder Daten zu den psychometrischen Eigenschaften der deutschen Version vor, noch wurde die postulierte Eindimensionalität des SBQ-R bislang international eingehender untersucht.

Material und Methode In einer bevölkerungsrepräsentativen Stichprobe (N=2497) wurden der SBQ-R sowie der PHQ-4 (zur Erfassung von Depressivität und Ängstlichkeit), der INQ sowie der ACSS-FAD (erfassen Konstrukte der Interpersonalen Theorie suizidalen Verhaltens) eingesetzt. Die Dimensionalität des SBQ-R wurde mit einer konfirmatorischen Faktorenanalyse geprüft, Interkorrelationen mit dem PHQ-4, dem INQ und dem ACSS-FAD wurden zur Bestimmung der konvergenten Validität ermittelt.

Ergebnisse Während die initiale Modellgüte für das eindimensionale Modell nicht zufriedenstellend war, konnte diese nach Einführung einer Residualkorrelation deutlich verbessert werden. Die interne Konsistenz ist mit Cronbach’s α=0,72 ausreichend. Es fanden sich theoriekonforme Zusammenhänge mit den konvergenten Maßen, mit Ausnahme des ACSS-FAD.

Schlussfolgerung Die psychometrischen Befunde der deutschen Übersetzung des SBQ-R sprechen grundsätzlich für den Einsatz des Fragebogens, wenngleich die Skalierung der Items und die notwendige Zulassung von Residualkorrelationen im eindimensionalen Modell kritisch zu betrachten sind. Da suizidale Erlebens- und Verhaltensweisen in der Suizidforschung sowie als Ausschlusskriterium in klinischen Studien häufig zeitökonomisch erfasst werden müssen, wäre es perspektivisch lohnenswert, ein gut einsetzbares und im Hinblick auf Itemkonstruktion und -skalierung schlüssigeres Instrument als Alternative zu entwickeln.
Konkordanz von DSM-5®-Diagnosen basierend auf diagnostischen Interviews mit Personen mit psychischen Störungen und ihren Angehörigen: Implikationen für die Methode der psychologischen Autopsie
Authors: Cwik Jan , Kessler Henrik , Herpertz Stephan , Becker Georgina , Janetzky Sandra , Sheverdina Anna , Westermann Katharina , Teismann Tobias
Published: September 2017

Theoretischer Hintergrund Die Abklärung, ob eine psychische Störung bei Suizidanten vorgelegen hat, stellt im Rahmen der psychologischen Autopsie ein besonderes diagnostisches Problem dar und wird kontrovers diskutiert.

Fragestellung Inwieweit stimmen patienten- und angehörigengenerierte DSM-5®-Diagnosen überein?

Methode Mit 20 Patientinnen und Patienten in stationärer psychosomatischer Therapie sowie deren Angehörigen oder Freunden wurde ein strukturiertes-klinisches Interview durchgeführt. In Bezug auf 78 patientengenerierte und 72 angehörigengenerierte Diagnosen wurden Übereinstimmungswerte ermittelt.

Ergebnisse Insgesamt fanden sich in der vorliegenden Studie nur schwache Übereinstimmungen zwischen patientengenerierten und angehörigengenerierten DSM-5®-Diagnosen. Moderate Übereinstimmungen konnten bezüglich der folgenden Diagnosen gefunden werden: Posttraumatische Belastungsstörung, Somatische Belastungsstörung, Borderline Persönlichkeitsstörung und Binge-Eating-Störung. Lediglich für die Persistierende Depressive Störung, die Binge-Eating-Störung und die Borderline Persönlichkeitsstörungen konnten gute positive prädiktive Werte (0,75–0,80) beobachtet werden.

Schlussfolgerungen Die Ergebnisse dieser Studie legen nahe, dass eine reliable Feststellung von psychischen Störungen basierend auf Angehörigenaussagen nicht möglich ist.
Controlling intermediate dynamics in a family of quadratic maps
Authors: da Silva Rafael M. , Manchein Cesar , Beims Marcus W.
Published: September 2017

The intermediate dynamics of composed one-dimensional maps is used to multiply attractors in phase space and create multiple independent bifurcation diagrams which can split apart. Results are shown for the composition of k-paradigmatic quadratic maps with distinct values of parameters generating k-independent bifurcation diagrams with corresponding k orbital points. For specific conditions, the basic mechanism for creating the shifted diagrams is the prohibition of period doubling bifurcations transformed in saddle-node bifurcations.
A rapid method to extract Seebeck coefficient under a large temperature difference
Authors: Zhu Qing , Kim Hee Seok , Ren Zhifeng
Published: September 2017

The Seebeck coefficient is one of the three important properties in thermoelectric materials. Since thermoelectric materials usually work under large temperature difference in real applications, we propose a quasi-steady state method to accurately measure the Seebeck coefficient under large temperature gradient. Compared to other methods, this method is not only highly accurate but also less time consuming. It can measure the Seebeck coefficient in both the temperature heating up and cooling down processes. In this work, a Zintl material (Mg3.15Nb0.05Sb1.5Bi0.49Te0.01) was tested to extract the Seebeck coefficient from room temperature to 573 K. Compared with a commercialized Seebeck coefficient measurement device (ZEM-3), there is ±5% difference between those from ZEM-3 and this method.
Highly efficient charge generation and electron injection of m-MTDATA/m-MTDATA:HAT-CN/HAT-CN organic heterojunction on ITO cathode for high efficiency inverted white organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Wang Xiaoli , Shi Changsheng , Guo Qingxun , Chen Jiangshan , Qiao Xianfeng , Ma Dongge , Ahamad Tansir , Alshehri Saad M. , Bae Sang Soon
Published: September 2017

The charge generation and electron injection characteristics of m-MTDATA/m-MTDATA:HAT-CN/HAT-CN organic heterojunction made of 4,4′,4″-tris(N-3-methylphenyl-N-phenylamino)triphenylamine (m-MTDATA) p-type organic semiconductor and 1,4,5,8,9,12-hexaazatriphenylene-hexacarbonitrile (HAT-CN) n-type semiconductor were well studied. It was found that m-MTDATA/m-MTDATA:HAT-CN/HAT-CN organic heterojunction showed better charge generation ability than m-MTDATA/HAT-CN organic heterojuntion, and realized highly efficient electron injection when using it as charge generator on indium tin oxide (ITO) cathode. The investigations of capacitance-frequency and current density-voltage characteristics of the electron-only devices based on m-MTDATA/m-MTDATA:HAT-CN/HAT-CN organic heterojunction demonstrated that the amounts of the injected electrons were dependent on the properties of the used n-doping electron transporting layer (n-ETL). Therefore, by optimization, high efficiency inverted white organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) with ITO as cathode were successfully fabricated using m-MTDATA/m-MTDATA:HAT-CN/HAT-CN organic heterojunction as charge injector and lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) doped bathophenanthroline (BPhen) as n-ETL. The resulting inverted white OLEDs achieved the maximum external quantum efficiency of 12.9%, current efficiency of 42.6 cd/A and power efficiency of 50.5 lm/W, and still remained 12.5%, 41.0 cd/A and 45.0 lm/W at the luminance of 1000 cd/m2, respectively, exhibiting extremely low efficiency roll-off.
Strong 4-mode coupling of nanomechanical string resonators
Authors: Gajo Katrin , Schüz Simon , Weig Eva M.
Published: September 2017

We investigate mechanical mode coupling between the four fundamental flexural modes of two doubly clamped, high-Q silicon-nitride nanomechanical string resonators. Strong mechanical coupling between the strings is induced by the strain mediated via a shared clamping point, engineered to increase the exchange of oscillatory energy. One of the resonators is controlled dielectrically, which results in strong coupling between its out-of-plane and in-plane flexural modes. We show both inter-string out-of-plane-in-plane and 3-mode resonances of the four coupled fundamental vibrational modes of a resonator pair, giving rise to a simple and a multimode avoided crossing, respectively.
Geometric dependence of strong field enhanced ionization in D2O
Authors: McCracken Gregory A. , Kaldun Andreas , Liekhus-Schmaltz Chelsea , Bucksbaum Philip H.
Published: September 2017

We have studied strong-field enhanced dissociative ionization of D2O in 40 fs, 800 nm laser pulses with focused intensities of <1–3 × 1015W/cm2 by resolving the charged fragment momenta with respect to the laser polarization. We that observe dication dissociation into OD+/D+ dominates when the polarization is out of the plane of the molecule, whereas trication dissociation into O+/D+/D+ is strongly dominant when the polarization is aligned along the D–D axis. Dication dissociation into O/D+/D+ and O+/D2 + is not seen nor is there any significant fragmentation into multiple ions when the laser is polarized along the C2v symmetry axis of the molecule. Even below the saturation intensity for OD+/D+, the O+/D+/D+ channel has higher yield. By analyzing how the laser field is oriented within the molecular frame for both channels, we show that enhanced ionization is driving the triply charged three body breakup but is not active for the doubly charged two body breakup. We conclude that laser-induced distortion of the molecular potential suppresses multiple ionization along the C2v axis but enhances ionization along the D–D direction.
Note: A pairwise form of the Ewald sum for non-neutral systems
Authors: Yi Shasha , Pan Cong , Hu Zhonghan
Published: September 2017

Using an example of a mixed discrete-continuum representation of charges under the periodic boundary condition, we show that the exact pairwise form of the Ewald sum, which is well-defined even if the system is non-neutral, provides a natural starting point for deriving unambiguous Coulomb energies that must remove all spurious dependence on the choice of the Ewald screening factor.
Cascaded acceleration of proton beams in ultrashort laser-irradiated microtubes
Authors: Wang H. C. , Weng S. M. , Murakami M. , Sheng Z. M. , Chen M. , Zhao Q. , Zhang J.
Published: September 2017

A cascaded ion acceleration scheme is proposed by use of ultrashort laser-irradiated microtubes. When the electrons of a microtube are blown away by intense laser pulses, strong charge-separation electric fields are formed in the microtube along both the axial and radial directions. By controlling the time delay between the laser pulses and a pre-accelerated proton beam injected along the microtube axis, we demonstrate that this proton beam can be further accelerated by the transient axial electric field in the laser-irradiated microtube. Moreover, the collimation of the injected proton beam can be enhanced by the inward radial electric field. Numerical simulations show that this cascaded ion acceleration scheme works efficiently even at non-relativistic laser intensities, and it can be applied to injected proton beams in the energy range from 1 to 100 MeV. Therefore, it is particularly suitable for cascading acceleration of protons to higher energy.
On the linewidth in photoelectron spectra of size-selected clusters
Authors: Koop Alexander , Gantefoer Gerd
Published: September 2017

A systematic analysis of the average linewidth of features in the photoelectron spectra of size-selected elemental clusters consisting of up to 10 atoms is presented. With increasing atomic weight, the average linewidth decreases. Several possible reasons for this trend are discussed. Obvious effects such as experimental resolution, vibrational temperature, and lifetime broadening can be excluded. The only remaining explanation is a mass-dependence of the Franck-Condon envelope. Each photoelectron peak corresponds to an electronic transition, which exhibits a Frank-Condon envelope. Its full width of half maximum depends on the spatial expansion of the nuclear wave functions in the initial state. With increasing atomic mass, the nuclear wave functions narrow down.
Investigating degradation behaviors induced by mobile Cu ions under high temperature negative bias stress in a-InGaZnO thin film transistors
Authors: Chiang Hsiao-Cheng , Chang Ting-Chang , Liao Po-Yung , Chen Bo-Wei , Tsao Yu-Ching , Tsai Tsung-Ming , Chien Yu-Chieh , Yang Yi-Chieh , Chen Kuan-Fu , Yang Chung-I , Hung Yu-Ju , Chang Kuan-Chang , Zhang Sheng-Dong , Lin Sung-Chun , Yeh Cheng-Yen
Published: September 2017

This letter investigates the effect of negative bias temperature stress (NBTS) on amorphous InGaZnO4 thin film transistors with copper electrodes. After 2000 s of NBTS, an abnormal subthreshold swing and on-current (Ion) degradation is observed. The recovery of the Id-Vg curve after either annealing or positive bias temperature stress suggests that there are some native mobile copper ions in the active layer. Both the existence of copper and the degradation mechanism can be confirmed by AC stress with different frequencies and by transmission electron microscope energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy analysis.
Investigation of tunable omnidirectional band gap in 1D magnetized full plasma photonic crystals
Authors: Naderi Dehnavi Zahra , Ranjbar Askari Hassan , Malekshahi Moslem , Dorranian Davoud
Published: September 2017

In this work, the creation of the omnidirectional band gap (OBG) in a tunable full plasma photonic crystal has been investigated theoretically. The full plasma photonic crystal is made of the bulk cold plasma which is embedded in the DC periodic magnetic field. The influence of the periodic external magnetic field leads to periodic changes of plasma permittivity and creation of unit cells. The formation of OBGs is limited by the Brewster's angle; here we have omitted this limitation by applying certain condition for permittivity layers of the unit cell. The results are investigated by means of the transfer matrix method. The numerical results show that the band width of OBG can be enlarged by increasing the thickness of the unit cell and density of plasma. Also it can be decreased by increasing the magnetic field strength.
Determination of size and refractive index of single gold nanoparticles using an optofluidic chip
Authors: Shi Y. Z. , Xiong S. , Chin L. K. , Zhang J. B. , Ser W. , Wu J. H. , Chen T. N. , Yang Z. C. , Hao Y. L. , Liu A. Q.
Published: September 2017

We report a real-time method to determine the size, i.e. diameter, and refractive index of single gold nanoparticles using an optofluidic chip, which consists of a quasi-Bessel beam optical chromatography. The tightly focused (∼ 0.5 μm) quasi-Bessel beam with low divergence (NA ∼ 0.04) was used to trap sub-100 nm gold nanoparticles within a long trapping distance of 140 μm. In the experiment, 60 to 100 nm gold nanoparticles were separated efficiently with at least 18 μm. The diameter and refractive index (real and imaginary) of single gold nanoparticles were measured at high resolutions with respect to the trapping distance, i.e. 0.36 nm/μm, 0.003/μm and 0.0016/μm, respectively.
Effect of polarization Coulomb field scattering on device linearity in AlGaN/GaN heterostructure field-effect transistors
Authors: Cui Peng , Lv Yuanjie , Lin Zhaojun , Fu Chen , Liu Yan
Published: September 2017

The power gain for the AlGaN/GaN heterostructure field-effect transistors (HFETs) has been measured, and a distinct difference of device linearity for a single device under two types of direct current quiescent points was observed. Based on the analyses of the variation of the transconductance and the parasitic source access resistance, it is found that polarization Coulomb field scattering can affect the power gain and the device linearity. We show that this is an effective approach to improve the linearity of AlGaN/GaN HFETs.
Hispanic Conciliarism and the Imperial Politics of Reform on the Eve of the Council of Trent
Authors: Tubau Xavier
Published: September 2017

This article examines the treatise on the general council (the “Tractado”) published in 1536 by a Spanish jurist serving in the imperial administration in the Kingdom of Naples. It analyzes the content and the context in which it was conceived and argues that the treatise legitimated Charles V’s call for a general council in the political context of 1535–36, which meant supporting the political aims of the Ghibelline faction of Charles V’s court in Naples. The analysis of conciliarist doctrine in this treatise sheds new light on the relations between church and Crown in the context of the imperial policy of Charles V.
Humanist Lives of Classical Philosophers and the Idea of Renaissance Secularization: Virtue, Rhetoric, and the Orthodox Sources of Unbelief
Authors: Palmer Ada
Published: September 2017

Humanists seeking to defend the classics in Christian-dominated Europe often reframed ancient philosophers as virtuous proto-Christians. This is particularly visible in the biographical paratexts written for printed editions of ancient philosophers such as Pythagoras, Epictetus, and Democritus, whose humanist editors’ Christianizing claims grew stronger over time. Pious humanists intended and expected the classics to strengthen and reaffirm Christian orthodoxy, but humanists’ own claims that pre-Christian sages, by the light of reason alone, had deduced the central truths of theology and surpassed Christians in the exercise of virtue inadvertently undermined the necessity of scripture and paved the way for later deism.
Renaissance Homer and Wedding Chests: TheOdysseyat the Crossroads of Humanist Learning, the Visual Vernacular, and the Socialization of Bodies
Authors: Zerba Michelle
Published: September 2017

Broadening the interdisciplinary base of study on Renaissance Homer, this essay looks to cassone (wedding chest) painting in the Quattrocento to explore how the textual reception of the “Odyssey” was enriched by the visual arts. As artifacts, wedding chests had a role in the public sphere, though they were destined for the private, and they made the epic available to audiences of nonelites. Nausicaa is a key figure, merging the vernacular courtly love tradition and romance. In working across the fields of literary study and art history, this essay introduces new critical concepts to account for the complexities of Renaissance reception of Homer.
Michelangelo’sPietàas Tomb Monument: Patronage, Liturgy, and Mourning
Authors: Fenichel Emily A.
Published: September 2017

In focusing on Michelangelo’s signature, recent scholarship on his “Pietà” in St. Peter’s has separated the sculpture from its spiritual intent. In contrast, this article will consider how the sculpture group spoke to its original religious context, principally as the funerary monument of Michelangelo’s powerful French patron, Cardinal Lagraulas. The Rome “Pietà” was an important part of the funeral rites for the cardinal that mirrors and amplifies the liturgy surrounding death, particularly the hour of vespers. Reconstructing the sculpture’s relationship to its liturgical and funerary ensemble will highlight Michelangelo’s iconographic and artistic ingenuity in the service of religion and his patron.
A weighted method based on Lars algorithm
Authors: Chen Lin , Chen Shanxiong , Chen Chunrong , Zhu Yuchen
Published: September 2017

LASSO (Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator) is mainly used to realize variable selection, simultaneously its algorithm and some improved algorithm have gotten wide attention in many fields. To improve the accuracy of LASSO problem in calculating regression coefficients, this paper proposes a new algorithm based on LASR (Least Angle Regression) algorithm to change its approximation direction, which uses two weighted method (coefficient of variation method or entropy weight method) to calculate the weight of linear relationship between the independent and the dependent variables, so we can calculate a regression coefficients set of linear regression model. Compared with LARS algorithm, it can be proved that the improved algorithm mentioned in this paper has a more precise ability for prediction.
Corrigendum to “Divergence in lattices in semisimple Lie groups and graphs of groups”
Authors: Druţu Cornelia , Mozes Shahar , Sapir Mark
Published: September 2017

The authors correct an error in Proposition 3.24 of their work Divergence in lattices in semisimple Lie groups and graphs of groups, Trans. Amer. Math. Soc. 362 (2010), no. 5, 2451–2505.
Modeling neutrophil migration in dynamic chemoattractant gradients: assessing the role of exosomes during signal relay
Authors: Szatmary Alex C. , Nossal Ralph , Parent Carole A. , Majumdar Ritankar
Published: September 2017

Migrating cells often exhibit signal relay, a process in which cells migrating in response to a chemotactic gradient release a secondary chemoattractant to enhance directional migration. In neutrophils, signal relay toward the primary chemoattractant N-­formylmethionyl-leucyl-phenylalanine (fMLP) is mediated by leukotriene B4(LTB4). Recent evidence suggests that the release of LTB4from cells occurs through packaging in exosomes. Here we present a mathematical model of neutrophil signal relay that focuses on LTB4and its exosome-mediated secretion. We describe neutrophil chemotaxis in response to a combination of a defined gradient of fMLP and an evolving gradient of LTB4, generated by cells in response to fMLP. Our model enables us to determine the gradient of LTB4arising either through directed secretion from cells or through time-varying release from exosomes. We predict that the secondary release of LTB4increases recruitment range and show that the exosomes provide a time delay mechanism that regulates the development of LTB4gradients. Additionally, we show that under decaying primary gradients, secondary gradients are more stable when secreted through exosomes as compared with direct secretion. Our chemotactic model, calibrated from observed responses of cells to gradients, thereby provides insight into chemotactic signal relay in neutrophils during inflammation.
Cortical actin contributes to spatial organization of ER–PM junctions
Authors: Hsieh Ting-Sung , Chen Yu-Ju , Chang Chi-Lun , Lee Wan-Ru , Liou Jen
Published: September 2017

Endoplasmic reticulum–plasma membrane (ER–PM) junctions mediate crucial activities ranging from Ca2+signaling to lipid metabolism. Spatial organization of ER–PM junctions may modulate the extent and location of these cellular activities. However, the morphology and distribution of ER–PM junctions are not well characterized. Using photoactivated localization microscopy, we reveal that the contact area of single ER–PM junctions is mainly oblong with the dimensions of ∼120 nm × ∼80 nm in HeLa cells. Using total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy and structure illumination microscopy, we show that cortical actin contributes to spatial distribution and stability of ER–PM junctions. Further functional assays suggest that intact F-actin architecture is required for phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate homeostasis mediated by Nir2 at ER–PM junctions. Together, our study provides quantitative information on spatial organization of ER–PM junctions that is in part regulated by F-actin. We envision that functions of ER–PM junctions can be differentially regulated through dynamic actin remodeling during cellular processes.
Two mechanisms coordinate the recruitment of the chromosomal passenger complex to the plane of cell division
Authors: Landino Jennifer , Norris Stephen R. , Li Muyi , Ballister Edward R. , Lampson Michael A. , Ohi Ryoma
Published: September 2017

During cytokinesis, the chromosomal passenger complex (CPC) promotes midzone organization, specifies the cleavage plane, and regulates furrow contractility. The localizations of the CPC are coupled to its cytokinetic functions. At the metaphase-to-anaphase transition, the CPC dissociates from centromeres and localizes to midzone microtubules and the equatorial cortex. CPC relocalization to the cell middle is thought to depend on MKlp2-driven, plus end–directed transport. In support of this idea, MKlp2 depletion impairs cytokinesis; however, cytokinesis failure stems from furrow regression rather than failed initiation of furrowing. This suggests that an alternative mechanism(s) may concentrate the CPC at the division plane. We show here that direct actin binding, via the inner centromere protein (INCENP), enhances CPC enrichment at the equatorial cortex, thus acting in tandem with MKlp2. INCENP overexpression rescues furrowing in MKlp2-depleted cells in an INCENP-actin binding–dependent manner. Using live-cell imaging, we also find that MKlp2-dependent targeting of the CPC is biphasic. MKlp2 targets the CPC to the anti-parallel microtubule overlap of the midzone, after which the MKlp2-CPC complex moves in a nondirected manner. Collectively, our work suggests that both actin binding and MKlp2-dependent midzone targeting cooperate to precisely position the CPC during mitotic exit, and that these pathways converge to ensure successful cleavage furrow ingression.
Problem solving
Authors: Evans Jonathan St B. T.
Published: September 2017

Problem solving is clearly a key feature of human intelligence. Human intelligence does not, in the main, rely on behaviour patterns fixed by evolution and nor does it depend on habit learning. To understand human intelligence, we need to study how humans can solve both ill-defined and well-defined problems. ‘Problem solving’ considers both types of problems and the different approaches used to solve them: the computational approach, insight, and expertise. It also looks at dual-process theory and explains that fast, intuitive processes can be both a source of error and also a cause of success, depending on the context and the prior knowledge of the problem solver.
Gelfand–Kirillov Dimensions of Highest Weight Harish-Chandra Modules for $\boldsymbol{{SU}(p,q)}$
Authors: Bai Zhanqiang , Xie Xun
Published: September 2017

Let $(G,K)$ be an irreducible Hermitian symmetric pair of non-compact type with $G={SU}(p,q)$, and let $\lambda$ be an integral weight such that the simple highest weight module $L(\lambda)$ is a Harish-Chandra $({\mathfrak{g}},K)$-module. We give a combinatorial algorithm for the Gelfand–Kirillov (GK) dimension of $L(\lambda)$. This enables us to prove that the GK dimension of $L(\lambda)$ decreases as the integer $\langle{\lambda+\rho},{\beta}^{\vee} \rangle$ increases, where $\rho$ is the half sum of positive roots and $\beta$ is the maximal non-compact root. Finally by the combinatorial algorithm, we obtain a description of the associated variety of $L(\lambda)$.
Reproducible Bioconductor workflows using browser-based interactive notebooks and containers
Authors: Almugbel Reem , Hung Ling-Hong , Hu Jiaming , Almutairy Abeer , Ortogero Nicole , Tamta Yashaswi , Yeung Ka Yee
Published: September 2017

Objective

Bioinformatics publications typically include complex software workflows that are difficult to describe in a manuscript. We describe and demonstrate the use of interactive software notebooks to document and distribute bioinformatics research. We provide a user-friendly tool, BiocImageBuilder, that allows users to easily distribute their bioinformatics protocols through interactive notebooks uploaded to either a GitHub repository or a private server.

Materials and methods

We present four different interactive Jupyter notebooks using R and Bioconductor workflows to infer differential gene expression, analyze cross-platform datasets, process RNA-seq data and KinomeScan data. These interactive notebooks are available on GitHub. The analytical results can be viewed in a browser. Most importantly, the software contents can be executed and modified. This is accomplished using Binder, which runs the notebook inside software containers, thus avoiding the need to install any software and ensuring reproducibility. All the notebooks were produced using custom files generated by BiocImageBuilder.

Results

BiocImageBuilder facilitates the publication of workflows with a point-and-click user interface. We demonstrate that interactive notebooks can be used to disseminate a wide range of bioinformatics analyses. The use of software containers to mirror the original software environment ensures reproducibility of results. Parameters and code can be dynamically modified, allowing for robust verification of published results and encouraging rapid adoption of new methods.

Conclusion

Given the increasing complexity of bioinformatics workflows, we anticipate that these interactive software notebooks will become as necessary for documenting software methods as traditional laboratory notebooks have been for documenting bench protocols, and as ubiquitous.
Reversal agents for oral anticoagulants
Authors: Griffiths Carrie L. , Vestal Mark L. , Livengood Spencer J. , Hicks Samantha
Published: September 2017

For more than half a century, warfarin, a vitamin K antagonist, has been the anticoagulant of choice. However, direct oral anticoagulants are rapidly gaining in popularity, which poses the need for efficacious reversal agents. This review article summarizes the strategies and agents used to reverse oral anticoagulants.
Adult asthma
Authors: Durham Catherine O. , Fowler Terri , Smith Whitney , Sterrett James
Published: September 2017

Adult asthma is a prevalent chronic medical condition that is associated with high morbidity, mortality, and cost. Early identification, evidence-based diagnosis, and step-wise management can lead to improvements in patient outcomes, decrease exacerbations, and eliminate respiratory function decline as the patient ages.
The role of regulatory B cells in allergen immunotherapy
Authors: van de Veen Willem
Published: September 2017

Purpose of review

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is currently the only curative treatment available for allergic diseases, and has been used in clinical practice for over a century. Induction and maintenance of immune tolerance to nonhazardous environmental and self-antigens is essential to maintain homeostasis and prevent chronic inflammation. Regulatory B (BREG) cells are immunoregulatory cells that protect against chronic inflammatory responses primarily through production of anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-10, transforming growth factor-β, and IL-35. The importance of BREG cells has been extensively demonstrated in the context of autoimmune diseases. Data showing their role in the regulation of allergic responses are slowly accumulating. This review summarizes recent findings relevant to the topic of BREG cells and their potential role in AIT.

Recent findings

BREG cells support AIT in models of allergic airway inflammation and intestinal inflammation through induction of regulatory T (TREG) cells. In humans BREG frequency increases during venom immunotherapy while the phenotype of allergen-specific B cells changes. Mechanisms of BREG-mediated tolerance to allergens include IL-10-mediated suppression of effector T cell, including TH2 responses, induction of TREG cells, IL-10-mediated inhibition of Dendritic cell maturation, modulation of T follicular helper responses, and production of anti-inflammatory IgG4 antibodies.

Current evidence supports a potential role for BREG cells in induction and maintenance of allergen tolerance during AIT. A better understanding of the role of B cells and BREG cells in AIT could open potential new windows for developing targeted therapies specifically focused on promoting BREG responses during AIT.
Association between mammographic density and tumor marker-defined breast cancer subtypes: a case–control study
Authors: Shin Jinyoung , Lee Jeong Eon , Ko Hyeon Young , Nguyen Tuong Linh , Nam Seok Jin , Hopper John Llewelyn , Song Yun-Mi
Published: September 2017

High mammographic density (MD) is the most important risk factor for breast cancer. This study aimed to clarify the relationship between MD and breast cancer subtypes defined by tumor markers. We enrolled 642 women with breast cancer (69% premenopausal) and 1241 controls matched for age and menopausal status. Absolute mammographic dense area (ADA), percent mammographic dense area (PDA), and nondense area were assessed using a computer-assisted thresholding technique. We classified breast cancer cases into four subtypes using information on tumor marker expression such as estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and Cerb2 receptor (HER2); luminal A (ER+ and/or PR+, HER2−), luminal B (ER+ and/or PR+, HER2+), HER2-overexpressing (ER−, PR−, and HER2+), and triple-negative (ER−, PR−, and HER2−). Analysis was carried out using a conditional logistic regression model with adjustment for covariates. ADA and PDA were associated positively with the risk of breast cancer overall. Both ADA and PDA tended to have a positive association with breast cancer with any ER, any PR, or HER2−, but not for HER2+. The risk of luminal A breast cancer increased significantly 1.11 times (95% confidence interval: 1.01–1.23) for ADA and 1.12 times (95% confidence interval: 1.01–1.24) for PDA, estimated per 1 SD of the age and BMI-adjusted MD. However, the risk of breast cancer with luminal B, HER2-overexpressing, and triple-negative subtypes did not differ (P>0.10). Differential associations between MD measures and breast cancer by tumor marker status or tumor marker-defined subtypes were not detected. These findings suggested that the association between MD and breast cancer subtype may be because of other causal pathways.
To image or not in noncyclic breast pain? A systematic review
Authors: Martín-Díaz Manuel , Maes-Carballo Marta , Khan Khalid Saeed , Bueno-Cavanillas Aurora
Published: September 2017

Purpose of review

Investigation of noncyclic mastalgia in women without signs or risk factors for cancer is controversial. An initial imaging strategy can diagnose breast cancer early, potentially leading to better treatment and survival. However, cancer diagnosis is very uncommon in these cases, and this approach can be harmful, as false positives or suspicion results will lead to unneeded interventions and follow-up. The purpose of this review is to analyse the trade-offs between desirable and undesirable consequences of initial imaging tests against clinical follow-up.

Recent findings

We found seven relevant studies, all observational, with some methodological limitations and very low-quality evidence. They showed low breast cancer prevalence (around 1–2%, increasing with age), high sensitivity to rule out disease but moderate specificity to rule it in using mammography and echography, and lacked evidence on follow-up and final outcomes.

There is a low prevalence of breast cancer in patients with painful breast with negative physical examination, and very little research to inform about the effect of performing or avoiding initial imaging test on outcomes of interest. With such limited evidence, only a weak recommendation to reinforce shared decision making about what should be done in the primary care setting can be made, with the backup of a specialized breast unit.
Risk-reducing Surgery in Women at Low Lifetime Risk of Developing Ovarian Carcinoma: Opportunistic Salpingectomy
Authors: HANLEY GILLIAN E. , ROZENBERG NIRIT M.K. , MCALPINE JESSICA N.
Published: September 2017

Lack of success in ovarian cancer control through screening or advances in treatment in the general population has prompted exploration in new avenues of prevention. “Opportunistic” salpingectomy describes a surgical procedure or risk-reducing intent in women at low-risk/general population risk for developing ovarian cancer who are undergoing pelvic/abdominal surgery for other indications. This chapter reviews the uptake, safety, and anticipated impact of this prevention initiative.
Evaluation of the Reliability and Repeatability of Scheimpflug System Measurement in Keratoconus
Authors: de Luis Eguileor Beatriz , Escudero Argaluza Julene , Pijoán Zubizarreta Jose Ignacio , Santamaria Carro Alaitz , Etxebarria Ecenarro Jaime
Published: September 2017

Purpose:

To assess the reliability and repeatability of the parameters obtained using a Scheimpflug system (Pentacam HR—high resolution) for monitoring progression in eyes with keratoconus.

Methods:

A prospective study was conducted based on measurements taken with the Pentacam HR in 82 eyes with keratoconus. We calculated the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the repeatability limit for topographic and aberrometric parameters.

Results:

All the parameters analyzed had excellent ICCs, above 0.95 in all cases, except for the measurement of the anterior best-fit sphere, for which the ICC was 0.873. The key repeatability limits for the parameters analyzed were as follows: 1.54 diopters (D) for the maximum keratometry in the central cornea, 1.08 D for maximum keratometry, 32.6 degrees for the axis of corneal astigmatism, 11.9 degrees for the coma axis, and 14.2 μm for thinnest corneal thickness.

Conclusions:

The level of repeatability of the measurements obtained with a Pentacam HR confirms the usefulness of this system for the diagnosis of keratoconus. Nevertheless, it has certain limitations for monitoring individual progression of keratoconus and planning intrastromal corneal ring segment insertion.
Nasopharyngeal Pneumococcal Colonization and Impact of a Single Dose of 13-Valent Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine in Indian Children With HIV and Their Unvaccinated Parents
Authors: Arya Bikas K. , Bhattacharya Sangeeta Das , Sutcliffe Catherine G. , Ganaie Feroze , Bhaskar Arun , Bhattacharyya Subhasish , Niyogi Swapan Kumar , Moss William J. , Panda Samiran , Ravikumar Kadahalli Lingegowda , Das Ranjan Saurav , Mandal Sutapa
Published: September 2017

Background:

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection increases risk of invasive disease from Streptococcus pneumoniae. Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV) prevent invasive disease and acquisition of vaccine type (VT) pneumococcus in the nasopharynx.

Objective:

To look at the safety and impact of one dose of PCV13 on acquisition of VT pneumococcal carriage in Indian children with HIV.

Method:

We conducted a cohort study in families of HIV-infected children (CLH) and families of HIV-uninfected children (HUC) in West Bengal. All children received one dose of PCV13. Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from children and parents at baseline and 2 months after vaccination.

Result:

One hundred and fifteen CLH and 47 HUC received one dose of PCV13. Fifty-eight percent of CLH were on antiretroviral therapy (ART), and the median nadir CD4 count was 287. There were no significant adverse events in either group. HUC had more VT colonization than CLH—55% versus 23% of all pneumococcal isolates. HIV infection doubled the risk of nonvaccine serotype colonization (P = 0.03). There was no difference in acquisition of VT isolates in CLH (4.4%) and HUC (4.5%) post-PCV13; however, older CLH (>5 years) had decreased clearance of VT strains. ART made no difference in pneumococcal colonization at baseline or after PCV13; however, CLH with higher nadir CD4 counts before starting ART were less likely to have VT colonization post-PCV13 (prevalence ratio, 0.2; 95% confidence interval: 0.1–0.5).

Conclusion:

While there was no difference in acquisition of VT nasopharyngeal carriage of pneumococcus in CLH and HUC after one dose of PCV13, earlier access to ART may impact response to PCV13 in CLH.
The CALI-9: A brief measure for assessing activity limitations in children and adolescents with chronic pain
Authors: Holley Amy Lewandowski , Zhou Chuan , Wilson Anna C. , Hainsworth Keri , Palermo Tonya M.
Published: September 2017

Pain-related functional limitations represent an important outcome domain to assess in children and adolescents with chronic pain. The aim of this study was to extend the empirical support of the 21-item Child Activity Limitations Interview (CALI-21), a well-validated measure of activity limitations, using a large, multisite sample and to develop a brief form of the measure with more interpretable scoring. A sample of 1616 youth and 1614 parents completed the CALI-21 at an initial appointment in 1 of 3 pain specialty clinics in the Midwest or Northwest United States, or as part of a research study after this initial visit. All youth also reported on usual pain intensity. The CALI-21 data from 1236 youth and parents were used in analyses. Results of the exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses supported a common 2-factor structure (Active and Routine factors) for both child- and parent-report versions. Using item reduction, the 9-item measure (CALI-9) was developed with both child and parent versions showing good internal consistency and high cross-informant reliability. Initial validity was shown by the ability of the CALI-9 to distinguish by level of pain intensity. Findings suggest that the CALI-9 is a promising brief tool for the evaluation of pain-related activity limitations in youth with chronic pain and for proxy report by parents. Advantages of the shortened scale include the revised 0 to 100-point scale, which increases interpretability, and further validation of the subscale scoring to assess specific limitations in Active and Routine physical functioning domains.
Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis is the Most Rapidly Increasing Indication for Liver Transplantation in Young Adults in the United States
Authors: Doycheva Iliana , Issa Danny , Watt Kymberly D. , Lopez Rocio , Rifai Ghassoub , Alkhouri Naim
Published: September 2017

Goals:

To analyze the frequency and trend of liver transplantation (LT) for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) cirrhosis in young adults aged 18 to 40 years and to assess post-LT outcomes in this age group.

Background:

NASH is currently the fastest-growing indication for LT in US adults. It is believed that NASH is a rare indication for LT among young adults.

Study:

Using the United Network for Organ Sharing database, we performed a retrospective cohort analysis of all LTs in young adults between 2002 and 2012. Incidence rate ratio was calculated for each indication.

Results:

A total of 5157 young adults underwent LT over the study period—54% were male, 23% obese. Mean (±SD) age and body mass index were 31.6±6.7 years and 26.3±6.1 kg/m2, respectively. The incidence of LTs performed for NASH cirrhosis increased from 0.53% in 2002 to 4.46% in 2012. NASH was the most rapidly growing indication for LT among all other etiologies with a 14% increment per year (incidence rate ratio, 1.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.09-1.20, P<0.001). The 5-year post-LT outcomes were comparable between NASH and non-NASH recipients, but graft survival was lower and retransplantation cumulative rates were higher in NASH recipients compared with those with other metabolic liver diseases (63.5% vs. 81.4%, P=0.003 and 12.7% vs. 4.2%, P=0.046, respectively).

Conclusions:

NASH is the fastest-growing indication for LT among young US adults aged 18 to 40 years and now accounts for almost 5% of all LTs in this age group.
Predictors of No-show Rate in the GI Endoscopy Suite at a Safety Net Academic Medical Center
Authors: Shuja Asim , Harris Ciel , Aldridge Petra , Malespin Miguel , de Melo Silvio W.
Published: September 2017

Background/Objectives:

Noncompliance with physician and procedure appointments is associated with poor disease control and worse disease outcomes. This also impacts the quality of care, decreases efficiency, and affects revenue. Studies have shown that no-show rates are higher in clinics caring for underserved populations and may contribute to poorer health outcomes in this group.

Methods:

We performed a 17-month retrospective observational cohort study of patients scheduled for outpatient procedures in the Gastroenterology endoscopy suite at the University of Florida Health, Jacksonville. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate associations between attendance and predictors of no-show.

Results:

In total, 6157 patients were scheduled to undergo different GI procedures during the study period. A total of 4388 (71%) patients completed their procedure, whereas 2349 (29%) failed to attend their appointment and were considered “no-show”. There was a significant relationship between the visit attendance and race, insurance, gender, and marital status. Males had a higher no-show rate compared with females (30% vs. 28%; P<0.05). African Americans had the highest no-show rate (32%; P<0.05) amongst different races. Patients scheduled for surveillance colonoscopy (ie, history of polyps, IBD, Colon cancer) were more likely to show (78%) than those obtaining initial colorectal cancer screening (74%) or other indications (71%) (P<0.05).

In the logistic regression model, patients with commercial insurance are more likely to show for their appointments than those with noncommercial insurance (eg, Medicare, Medicaid, City contract etc) [odds ratio (OR), 2.6; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.2-3.0]. The odds of showing up are 1.7 times higher for married men compared with single men (OR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.3-2.0). Similarly, married females are more likely to show up for appointment than single females (OR, 1.1; 95% CI, 0.9-1.3). We did not find significant association between the type of GI procedure (eg, colonoscopy vs. esophagogastroduodenoscopy vs. advanced endoscopic procedures) (P>0.05).

Conclusions:

Predictors of no-shows for endoscopic gastrointestinal procedures included unpartnered or single patients, African American race and noncommercial insurance providers. Patients scheduled for surveillance colonoscopy had better adherence than initial screening. Further studies are required to better characterize these factors and improve adherence to the outpatient appointments based on the identified predictors.