bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
China's Growth Slowdown: Lessons from Japan's Experience and the Expected Impact on Japan, the USA and Germany
Authors: Fukao Kyoji , Yuan Tangjun
Published: September 2016

China is switching from economic growth based on extremely rapid capital accumulation to economic growth based on structural reforms and accelerated total factor productivity growth. Meanwhile, China will also face a serious excess saving problem as capital accumulation slows and, hence, needs to reduce its private saving rate. Based on this analysis, we estimated the economic impact of China's growth slowdown and hypothetical economic transformation on Japan, the USA and Germany using the world input–output database. We compared the following three scenarios for China's final demand in 2020 and economic growth from 2015 to 2020: (i) an optimistic scenario (GDP growth rate = 6.2%, investment/GDP = 0.501); (ii) a slowdown scenario (GDP growth rate = 4%, investment/GDP = 0.501); and (iii) a structural reform scenario (GDP growth rate = 6.2%, investment/GDP = 0.3). Our analysis suggests that Japan and Germany would suffer more from structural reforms in China than from a slowdown in growth. Meanwhile, for the USA, the employment decline triggered by structural reforms would be much smaller than the employment decline caused by a slowdown in growth.
Addition of or switch to insulin therapy in people treated with glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists: A real‐world study in 66 583 patients
Authors: Montvida Olga , Klein Kerenaftali , Kumar Sudhesh , Khunti Kamlesh , Paul Sanjoy K.
Published: September 2016

Background

Real world outcomes of addition or switch to insulin therapy in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) patients on glucagon‐like paptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1RA) with inadequately controlled hyperglycaemia, are not known.

Materials and methods

Patients with T2DM (n = 66 583) with a minimum of 6 months of GLP‐1RA treatment and without previous insulin treatment were selected. Those who added insulin (n = 39 599) or switched to insulin after GLP‐1RA cessation (n = 4706) were identified. Adjusted changes in glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), weight, systolic blood pressure (SBP), and LDL cholesterol were estimated over 24 months follow‐up.

Results

Among those who continued with GLP‐1RA treatment without adding or switching to insulin, the highest adjusted mean HbA1c change was achieved within 6 months, with no further glycaemic benefits observed during 24 months of follow‐up. Addition of insulin within 6 months of GLP‐1RA initiation was associated with 18% higher odds of achieving HbA1c <7% at 24 months, compared with adding insulin later. At 24 months, those who added insulin reduced HbA1c significantly by 0.55%, while no glycaemic benefit was observed in those who switched to insulin. Irrespective of intensification with insulin, weight, SBP and LDL cholesterol were significantly reduced by 3 kg, 3 mm Hg, and 0.2 mmol/L, respectively, over 24 months.

Conclusions

Significant delay in intensification of treatment by addition of insulin is observed in patients with T2DM inadequately controlled with GLP‐1RA. Earlier addition of insulin is associated with better glycaemic control, while switching to insulin is not clinically beneficial during 2 years of treatment. Non‐responding patients on GLP‐1RA would benefit from adding insulin therapy, rather than switching to insulin.
The influence of life history traits on the phenological response of British butterflies to climate variability since the late‐19th century
Authors: Brooks Stephen J. , Self Angela , Powney Gary D. , Pearse William D. , Penn Malcolm , Paterson Gordon L. J.
Published: September 2016

Many species of plants and animals have advanced their phenology in response to climate warming in recent decades. Most of the evidence available for these shifts is based on data from the last few decades, a period coinciding with rapid climate warming. Baseline data is required to put these recent phenological changes in a long‐term context. We analysed the phenological response of 51 resident British butterfly species using data from 83 500 specimens in the collections of the Natural History Museum, London, covering the period 1880–1970. Our analysis shows that only three species significantly advanced their phenology between 1880 and 1970, probably reflecting the relatively small increase in spring temperature over this period. However, the phenology of all but one of the species we analysed showed phenological sensitivity to inter‐annual climate variability and a significant advancement in phenology in years in which spring or summer temperatures were warm and dry. The phenologies of butterfly species were more sensitive to weather if the butterfly species was early flying, southerly distributed, and a generalist in terms of larval diet. This observation is consistent with the hypothesis that species with greater niche breadth may be more phenologically sensitive than species with important niche constraints. Comparison of our results with post‐1976 data from the UK Butterfly Monitoring Scheme show that species flying early in the year had a greater rate of phenological advancement prior to the mid‐1970s. Additionally, prior to the mid‐1970s, phenology was influenced by temperatures in March or April, whereas since 1976, February temperature had a stronger influence on the phenology. These results suggest that early flying species may be approaching the limits of phenological advancement in response to recent climate warming.
Fracture Characteristics and Damage Evolution of Coating Systems Under Four‐Point Bending
Authors: Liu Haiyan , Liang Lihong , Wang Yingbiao , Wei Yueguang
Published: September 2016

The fracture and damage behaviors of ceramic coating/alloy substrate systems under four‐point bending were investigated using a scanning electron microscope to observe in situ tests. Both the thin and thick coatings fractured by tensile instability at the pure bending sections, and multiple transverse cracks that were vertical to the interface occurred in the coatings. The average crack spacing was greater for the thick coatings than for the thin ones. A catastrophic failure model was developed to explain the damage evolution behavior of the coatings. The damage was found to increase sharply near the failure point.
Social workers’ policy engagement: A review of the literature
Authors: Weiss‐Gal Idit
Published: September 2016

The notion that social workers should engage in the policy process to further social justice is embedded in the professional discourse. However, little is known about social workers’ actual engagement in policy processes. This article presents a scoping review of the research literature published in English in order to understand the nature of current research and ascertain what is known about three modes of social workers’ policy involvement: voluntary political participation, holding elected office, policy practice. The review identified 51 studies published between 1964 and 2015. The studies focus mainly on social workers’ levels of involvement, their activities and the factors associated with the level of engagement. The review describes the main findings emerging from the research and underscores some methodological limitations in the existing studies and the continuing gaps in our knowledge on the policy engagement of social workers. Implications for future research, practice and education are presented.

Key Practitioner Message: • Social workers’ engagement in policy processes in order to further social justice and the well‐being of service users is a core mission in the social work profession. However, it is much less clear whether and how social workers, both as citizens and professionals, have heeded this call; • The article offers a scoping review of the research on three modes of social workers’ policy involvement: voluntary political participation, holding elected office, policy practice; • The review identifies 51 studies that shed light on the levels of engagement, the wide range of policy activities undertaken by social workers and the individual, organisational and macro factors associated with the level of engagement.
Gelsolin role in microapocrine secretion
Authors: Silva W. , Ribeiro A. F. , Silva M. C. P. , Terra W. R. , Ferreira C.
Published: September 2016

A role of gelsolin in opening the way along the microvilli for secretory vesicles during microapocrine secretion is proposed here. Data obtained with different techniques showed that many digestive enzymes are released by microapocrine secretion in insects. Proteins that might be involved in the machinery of microapocrine secretion were selected from our transcriptomes and literature searches. The proteins were annexin, Complex actin‐related proteins 2 and 3 (ARP 2/3) cofilin, fimbrin, gelsolin 1, gelsolin 2, moesin, myosin 1, myosin 6, protein disulphide isomerase 1 (PDI 1), PDI 2 and profilin. The cDNAs coding for annexin, fimbrin, gelsolin 1, myosin 1, PDI 1 and PDI 2 were cloned and their sequences deposited in GenBank. Only gelsolin 1 and myosin 1 are expressed exclusively in the midgut (semiquantitative reverse transcriptase PCR). As myosin 1 may have a structural role in microvilli, gelsolin 1 is the best guess to be involved in the secretory machinery. A truncated recombinant gelsolin 1 was used to generate antibodies with which it was shown labelling inside and around midgut cell microvilli shown in an electron microscope, reinforcing a microvillar role for gelsolin 1. Suppression of gelsolin 1 synthesis by RNA interference prevents secretory vesicles from advancing inside the microvilli, in agreement with its putative role in severing the actin filaments to free the way for the vesicles.
Part‐time employment in Jordan as a nursing policy solution
Authors: Al‐Motlaq M. , Azar N. , Squires A.
Published: September 2016

Aim

Explore the potential of a part‐time work option for nurses as a strategy for managing domestic markets in Jordan by examining perceptions of working nurses and nursing students in the context of current social and cultural variables.

Background

Unemployment among Jordanian nurses has become a reality in recent years. However, labor markets literature in nursing rarely studies what kind of policy responses should occur during a surplus of nurses.

Methods

A cross‐sectional design structured the study. The perceptions of nurses and students were measured through a questionnaire developed specifically for the purpose of this exploratory study.

Results

Both nurses (n = 51) and students (n = 56) supported the introduction of the new suggested part‐time option. However, students were more willing to start working or transfer into part‐time work, take payment on hourly basis, and support colleagues to transfer into part‐time work. Different solutions were also suggested by participants.

Discussion

The results were useful for providing the foundational data to further study the viability of a part‐time work option for Jordanian nurses. The results show how optimistic current and future Jordanian nurses are regarding this employment option. For countries that may need to diversify their employment models due to excess supply of nurses and to address gender imbalances, this work may help inform policy development.

Implications for nurses

Both employed and unemployed nurses will benefit if health care managers consider its application. The flexibility of this option may help improve the quality of life of many nurses.

Implications for health policy

The results of this study provide nursing leaders and managers with foundational evidence that may be applicable in the Jordanian health sector. Although further studies are recommended, nursing leaders and policy makers should consider such a solution.
Quality Group Home Care for Adults with Developmental Disabilities and/or Mental Health Disorders: Yearning for Understanding, Security and Freedom
Authors: Shipton Leah , Lashewicz Bonnie M.
Published: September 2016

Background

The purpose of this study was to uncover and understand factors influencing quality of care received by adults with developmental disabilities and/or mental health disorders living in group homes.

Methods

The present authors conducted a secondary analysis of data from nine focus group discussions with adults with developmental disabilities and/or mental health disorders, and their family and paid caregivers (N = 52). To focus the analysis, the present authors drew on the research literature to craft a model of quality of group home care using concepts of social inclusion and self‐determination, and corresponding staff approaches that include active support and person‐centred care.

Results

Social inclusion and self‐determination for adults in group homes are facilitated by staff approaches and manifest in residents being understood and experiencing security and freedom.

Conclusions

The present authors offer recommendations for group home resources, training, communication and outcome measures that promote residents’ being understood and experiencing security and freedom.
Equine metabolic syndrome impairs adipose stem cells osteogenic differentiation by predominance of autophagy over selective mitophagy
Authors: Marycz Krzysztof , Kornicka Katarzyna , Marędziak Monika , Golonka Paweł , Nicpoń Jakub
Published: September 2016

Adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASC) hold great promise in the treatment of many disorders including musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular and/or endocrine diseases. However, the cytophysiological condition of cells, used for engraftment seems to be fundamental factor that might determine the effectiveness of clinical therapy. In this study we investigated growth kinetics, senescence, accumulation of oxidative stress factors, mitochondrial biogenesis, autophagy and osteogenic differentiation potential of ASC isolated from horses suffered from equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). We demonstrated that EMS condition impairs multipotency/pluripotency in ASCs causes accumulation of reactive oxygen species and mitochondria deterioration. We found that, cytochrome c is released from mitochondria to the cytoplasm suggesting activation of intrinsic apoptotic pathway in those cells. Moreover, we observed up‐regulation of p21 and decreased ratio of Bcl‐2/BAX. Deteriorations in mitochondria structure caused alternations in osteogenic differentiation of ASCEMS resulting in their decreased proliferation rate and reduced expression of osteogenic markers BMP‐2 and collagen type I. During osteogenic differentiation of ASCEMS, we observed autophagic turnover as probably, an alternative way to generate adenosine triphosphate and amino acids required to increased protein synthesis during differentiation. Downregulation of PGC1α, PARKIN and PDK4 in differentiated ASCEMS confirmed impairments in mitochondrial biogenesis and function. Hence, application of ASCEMS into endocrinological or ortophedical practice requires further investigation and analysis in the context of safeness of their application.
Credit Availability and Asset Pricing Dynamics in Illiquid Markets: Evidence from Commercial Real Estate Markets
Authors: LING DAVID C. , NARANJO ANDY , SCHEICK BENJAMIN
Published: September 2016

This article examines credit frictions and asset pricing in public and private markets with varying liquidity. We find that a tightening in credit availability is negatively related to subsequent price movements in private and public commercial real estate markets. Assets trading in illiquid segments of these markets are also susceptible to a feedback effect whereby changes in asset prices predict subsequent changes in credit availability. Controlling for investor demand, our findings suggest credit constraints play an economically significant asset pricing role in markets that are both highly levered and relatively illiquid.
Monetary Policy Expectations at the Zero Lower Bound
Authors: BAUER MICHAEL D. , RUDEBUSCH GLENN D.
Published: September 2016

We show that conventional dynamic term structure models (DTSMs) estimated on recent U.S. data severely violate the zero lower bound (ZLB) on nominal interest rates and deliver poor forecasts of future short rates. In contrast, shadow‐rate DTSMs account for the ZLB by construction, capture the resulting distributional asymmetry of future short rates, and achieve good forecast performance. These models provide more accurate estimates of the most likely path for future monetary policy—including the timing of policy liftoff from the ZLB and the pace of subsequent policy tightening. We also demonstrate the benefits of including macroeconomic factors in a shadow‐rate DTSM when yields are constrained near the ZLB.
Clarifying the Association Between Mother–Father Relationship Aggression and Parenting
Authors: Nomaguchi Kei , Johnson Wendi L. , Minter Mallory D. , Aldrich Lindsey
Published: September 2016

Although much research examines the association between fathers' relationship aggression and mothers' parenting, little attention is given to mothers' aggression, mutual aggression, or fathers' parenting. Using a sample of coresiding couples from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (N = 973), the authors examine the association between mothers' and fathers' relationship aggression, measured as frequency and perpetration–victimization types (mutual, mother only, father only), and mothers' and fathers' parenting. Fixed effects regression models show that fathers' aggression is positively related to mothers' parenting stress, whereas father‐only or mother‐only aggression is related to fathers' stress. For both parents, aggression perpetration is negatively related to their own engagement with children. Mother‐only aggression is negatively related to mothers' spanking and positively related to fathers' spanking. These findings suggest the importance of examining both parents' aggression and perpetrators' as well as victims' parenting to better understand the link between relationship aggression and parenting.
Innovative non‐invasive model for screening reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate in a working population
Authors: Wu Lan , Guo Vivian Yawei , Wong Carlos King Ho , Kung Kenny , Han Li , Wang XinLing , Luo Yunzhi
Published: September 2016

Aim

Most of the existing risk scores for identifying people with reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) involve laboratory‐based factors, which are not convenient and cost‐effective to use in a large population‐based screening programme. We aimed at using non‐invasive variables to identify subjects with reduced eGFR in a Chinese working population.

Methods

Two study populations were recruited in 2012 and 2015, respectively. The 2012 study population (n = 14 374) was randomly separated as the training dataset (n = 9621) or the internal testing dataset (n = 4753) at a ratio of 2:1, and the 2015 study population (n = 4371) was used as the external testing dataset. Stepwise logistic regression analysis with age, gender, hypertension and body mass index (BMI) status were first performed in the training dataset and then validated in both internal and external testing dataset. A nomogram was further developed based on the final model.

Results

Results showed that older females with higher BMI status were more likely to have reduced eGFR. The model had excellent discrimination (AUC: 0.887 [95%CI: 0.865, 0.909] in the internal validation and 0.880 [95%CI: 0.829, 0.931] in the external validation) and calibration (Hosmer‐Lemeshow test, P = 0.798 and 0.397 for internal and external dataset, respectively). The probability of having reduced eGFR increased gradually from <0.1% at a total score of 0 to 26% at a total score of 58 shown in the nomogram.

Conclusion

Non‐invasive variables could help identify individuals at high risk of reduced eGFR for further kidney function testing or intervention, aiding in decision‐making and resource allocation in large population screening.
RSL class I genes positively regulate root hair development in Oryza sativa
Authors: Kim Chul Min , Han Chang‐deok , Dolan Liam
Published: September 2016

Root hairs are filamentous protuberances from superficial cells of plant roots that are critical for nutrient uptake. Genes encoding ROOT HAIR DEFECTIVE‐SIX LIKE (RSL) class I basic helix–loop–helix proteins are expressed in future root hair cells (trichoblasts) of the Arabidopsis thaliana root where they positively regulate root hair cell development.

We characterized the function of class I genes in Oryza sativa root development.

We show that there are three RSL class I genes in O. sativa and that each is expressed in developing root hair cells. Reduction of RSL class I function results in the development of shorter root hairs than in wild‐type. Ectopic overexpression results in the development of ectopic root hair cells.

These data suggest that expression of individual RSL class I proteins is sufficient for root hair development in the cereal O. sativa (rice). Therefore RSL class I genes have been conserved since O. sativa and A. thaliana last shared a common ancestor. However, given that RSL class I genes are not sufficient for root hair development in A. thaliana, it suggests that there are differences in the mechanisms repressing RSL class I gene activity between members of the Poaceae and Brassicaceae.
MdMyb93 is a regulator of suberin deposition in russeted apple fruit skins
Authors: Legay Sylvain , Guerriero Gea , André Christelle , Guignard Cédric , Cocco Emmanuelle , Charton Sophie , Boutry Marc , Rowland Owen , Hausman Jean‐Francois
Published: September 2016

A comparison of the transcriptomes of russeted vs nonrusseted apple skins previously highlighted a tight relationship between a gene encoding an MYB‐type transcription factor, MdMYB93, and some key suberin biosynthetic genes. The present work assesses the role of this transcription factor in the suberization process.

A phylogenetic analysis of MdMYB93 and Arabidopsis thaliana MYBs was performed and the function of MdMYB93 was further investigated using Agrobacterium‐mediated transient overexpression in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. An RNA‐Seq analysis was performed to highlight the MdMYB93‐regulated genes. Ultraperformance liquid chromatography–triple time‐of‐flight (UPLC‐TripleTOF) and GC‐MS were used to investigate alterations in phenylpropanoid, soluble‐free lipid and lipid polyester contents.

A massive accumulation of suberin and its biosynthetic precursors in MdMYB93 agroinfiltrated leaves was accompanied by a remobilization of phenylpropanoids and an increased amount of lignin precursors. Gene expression profiling displayed a concomitant alteration of lipid and phenylpropanoid metabolism, cell wall development, and extracellular transport, with a large number of induced transcripts predicted to be involved in suberin deposition.

The present work supports a major role of MdMYB93 in the regulation of suberin deposition in russeted apple skins, from the synthesis of monomeric precursors, their transport, polymerization, and final deposition as suberin in primary cell wall.
Integration of light and circadian signals that regulate chloroplast transcription by a nuclear‐encoded sigma factor
Authors: Belbin Fiona E. , Noordally Zeenat B. , Wetherill Sarah J. , Atkins Kelly A. , Franklin Keara A. , Dodd Antony N.
Published: September 2016

We investigated the signalling pathways that regulate chloroplast transcription in response to environmental signals. One mechanism controlling plastid transcription involves nuclear‐encoded sigma subunits of plastid‐encoded plastid RNA polymerase. Transcripts encoding the sigma factor SIG5 are regulated by light and the circadian clock. However, the extent to which a chloroplast target of SIG5 is regulated by light‐induced changes in SIG5 expression is unknown. Moreover, the photoreceptor signalling pathways underlying the circadian regulation of chloroplast transcription by SIG5 are unidentified.

We monitored the regulation of chloroplast transcription in photoreceptor and sigma factor mutants under controlled light regimes in Arabidopsis thaliana.

We established that a chloroplast transcriptional response to light intensity was mediated by SIG5; a chloroplast transcriptional response to the relative proportions of red and far red light was regulated by SIG5 through phytochrome and photosynthetic signals; and the circadian regulation of chloroplast transcription by SIG5 was predominantly dependent on blue light and cryptochrome.

Our experiments reveal the extensive integration of signals concerning the light environment by a single sigma factor to regulate chloroplast transcription. This may originate from an evolutionarily ancient mechanism that protects photosynthetic bacteria from high light stress, which subsequently became integrated with higher plant phototransduction networks.
Plants are less negatively affected by flooding when growing in species‐rich plant communities
Authors: Wright Alexandra J. , de Kroon Hans , Visser Eric J. W. , Buchmann Tina , Ebeling Anne , Eisenhauer Nico , Fischer Christine , Hildebrandt Anke , Ravenek Janneke , Roscher Christiane , Weigelt Alexandra , Weisser Wolfgang , Voesenek Laurentius A. C. J. , Mommer Liesje
Published: September 2016

Flooding is expected to increase in frequency and severity in the future. The ecological consequences of flooding are the combined result of species‐specific plant traits and ecological context. However, the majority of past flooding research has focused on individual model species under highly controlled conditions.

An early summer flooding event in a grassland biodiversity experiment in Jena, Germany, provided the opportunity to assess flooding responses of 60 grassland species in monocultures and 16‐species mixtures. We examined plant biomass, species‐specific traits (plant height, specific leaf area (SLA), root aerenchyma, starch content) and soil porosity.

We found that, on average, plant species were less negatively affected by the flood when grown in higher‐diversity plots in July 2013. By September 2013, grasses were unaffected by the flood regardless of plant diversity, and legumes were severely negatively affected regardless of plant diversity. Plants with greater SLA and more root aerenchyma performed better in September. Soil porosity was higher in higher‐diversity plots and had a positive effect on plant performance.

As floods become more frequent and severe in the future, growing flood‐sensitive plants in higher‐diversity communities and in soil with greater soil aeration may attenuate the most negative effects of flooding.
Periodontal and other oral manifestations of immunodeficiency diseases
Authors: Peacock ME , Arce RM , Cutler CW
Published: September 2016

The list of immunodeficiency diseases grows each year as novel disorders are discovered, classified, and sometimes reclassified due to our ever‐increasing knowledge of immune system function. Although the number of patients with secondary immunodeficiencies (SIDs) greatly exceeds those with primary immunodeficiencies (PIDs), the prevalence of both appears to be on the rise probably because of scientific breakthroughs that facilitate earlier and more accurate diagnosis. Primary immunodeficiencies in adults are not as rare as once thought. Globally, the main causes of secondary immunodeficiency are HIV infection and nutritional insufficiencies. Persons with acquired immune disorders such as AIDS caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are now living long and fulfilling lives as a result of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART). Irrespective of whether the patient's immune‐deficient state is a consequence of a genetic defect or is secondary in nature, dental and medical practitioners must be aware of the constant potential for infections and/or expressions of autoimmunity in these individuals. The purpose of this review was to study the most common conditions resulting from primary and secondary immunodeficiency states, how they are classified, and the detrimental manifestations of these disorders on the periodontal and oral tissues.
Effects of soil resources on expression of a sexual conflict over timing of stigma receptivity in a mixed‐mating plant
Authors: Lankinen Åsa , Hydbom Sofia
Published: September 2016

While environmental factors strongly influence plant growth and reproduction, less is known about environmental effects on sexual selection and sexual conflict. In this study on mixed‐matingCollinsia heterophyllawe investigated whether soil resource environment affected traits associated with sexual conflict. InC. heterophyllaa sexual conflict over timing of stigma receptivity occurs. Early stigma receptivity benefits pollen parents by securing paternity while late stigma receptivity benefits female fitness in terms of increased seed production. We performed hand‐pollinations combining recipients and donors grown either in high or low resource environments and asked whether these treatments influenced sexual conflict traits – recipient‐ and donor‐based influence on timing of stigma receptivity – and conflict costs related to reduced early seed production. We also asked whether resource environment affected eight traits related to general fitness and mating system. Sexual conflict‐associated traits – timing of stigma receptivity and seed production – were generally unaffected by resource environment. While no universal effect of resources was detected, we did observe donor‐specific responses to environment, suggesting that environment can nonetheless contribute to variation in timing of stigma receptivity. Recipients grown under low resources showed pronounced differences among donors for number of seeds per capsule, indicating that recipients favour some donors over others under resource‐low conditions. Moreover, high resources increased number of flowers but reduced pollen germination rate, while other traits were unaffected, indicating variation in the response to resource environment for fitness‐ and mating system‐traits. Our results suggest that even though soil resource environment had a low impact on the sexual conflict traits and related costs inC. heterophylla, it generated variability in pollen donor‐influence on this trait and in recipient sorting among donors. Thus, it is possible that both sexual conflict and sexual selection is affected by environmental factors not only in animals but also in plants.
Der Unterschied zwischen Geschichtsschreibung und Autobiographie in ihrem Verhältnis zur Zeit
Authors: Wagner Martin
Published: September 2016

Die Formbildung moderner Autobiographik wird oft als unmittelbarer Effekt des um 1800 entstehenden modernen Geschichtsbegriffs dargestellt. Lineare und kohärente autobiographische Entwicklungsnarrative bilden sich, so die Annahme, in Anlehnung an moderne Geschichtskonstruktionen um 1800 heraus und geraten mit diesen zusammen ab 1900 – und dann verstärkt in der Postmoderne – wieder in die Krise. Dabei wird nicht allein außer Acht gelassen, dass lineare autobiographische Entwicklungsnarrative wesentlich älter sind als das moderne Bewusstsein von Geschichte, sondern auch, dass sich der Beschreibungsgegenstand der Historiographie wesentlich von dem der Autobiographie unterscheidet. Der vorliegende Beitrag versucht zu einem nuancierteren Verständnis des Verhältnisses von Geschichtsschreibung und Autobiographik zu gelangen. Vorgeschlagen wird, die Autobiographie nicht so sehr als abhängig von der modernen Historiographie zu beschreiben, sondern eher als in ihrem epistemologischen Gehalt vom historischen Denken aufgewertet. Vorgenommen wird diese Untersuchung, nach einigen einleitenden Bemerkungen zur Bedeutung der Autobiographie im neunzehnten Jahrhundert, anhand einer Parallellektüre von Hans Ulrich Gumbrechts kulturtheoretischem Essayband Unsere breite Gegenwart (2010) und ausgewählter autobiographietheoretischer Äußerungen W. G. Sebalds. In dieser Parallellektüre zweier postmoderner Autoren findet sich die Eigengesetzlichkeit der Autobiographie insofern bestätigt, als deutlich wird, dass die Preisgabe linearer Entwicklungsnarrative in der Autobiographie auf wesentlich größere Widerstände stößt als in der Historiographie.
The functional role of xylem parenchyma cells and aquaporins during recovery from severe water stress
Authors: Secchi Francesca , Pagliarani Chiara , Zwieniecki Maciej A.
Published: September 2016

Xylem parenchyma cells [vessel associated cells (VACs)] constitute a significant fraction of the xylem in woody plants. These cells are often closely connected with xylem vessels or tracheids via simple pores (remnants of plasmodesmata fields). The close contact and biological activity of VACs during times of severe water stress and recovery from stress suggest that they are involved in the maintenance of xylem transport capacity and responsible for the restoration of vessel/tracheid functionality following embolism events. As recovery from embolism requires the transport of water across xylem parenchyma cell membranes, an understanding of stem‐specific aquaporin expression patterns, localization and activity is a crucial part of any biological model dealing with embolism recovery processes in woody plants. In this review, we provide a short overview of xylem parenchyma cell biology with a special focus on aquaporins. In particular we address their distributions and activity during the development of drought stress, during the formation of embolism and the subsequent recovery from stress that may result in refilling. Complemented by the current biological model of parenchyma cell function during recovery from stress, this overview highlights recent breakthroughs on the unique ability of long‐lived perennial plants to undergo cycles of embolism‐recovery related to drought/rewetting or freeze/thaw events.
Don't startle me—Interference of startle probe presentations and intermittent ratings with fear acquisition
Authors: Sjouwerman Rachel , Niehaus Johanna , Kuhn Manuel , Lonsdorf Tina B.
Published: September 2016

Reproducibility is fundamental to science and a recent matter of discussion. We report challenges for conceptual replications when employing different readout measures to target the same theoretical construct, particularly those requiring probed reactions. This was addressed in a fear conditioning paradigm, a prototype of emotional learning, in three experimental groups (Ntotal = 57). We demonstrate that the inclusion of startle probes (95 dB burst of white noise) to elicit a startle reflex delays the acquisition of fear as reflected by skin conductance responses and intermittent fear ratings. The inclusion of fear ratings in turn did not significantly affect fear acquisition. Hence, subtle differences in experimental design, such as the inclusion of a single additional outcome measure, may substantially impact on study results and interpretations. Thus, small effects, as are common in between‐group comparisons, may be particularly susceptible to this, which has strong implications for the replication of findings across studies employing slightly different experimental designs.
Masks for prevention of respiratory viruses on the BMT unit: results of a quality initiative
Authors: Sokol Kelsey A. , De la Vega‐Diaz Imelda , Edmondson‐Martin Kathleen , Kim Sara , Tindle Sharon , Wallach Fran , Steinberg Amir
Published: September 2016

Respiratory viral infections (RVI) cause significant morbidity and mortality in hospitalized oncology patients. These viruses are easily spread from asymptomatic and/or symptomatic healthcare workers and visitors to immunocompromised patients, and literature review of facemasks for prevention of infection revealed mixed results. The Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT) Quality Assurance (QA) Committee at Mount Sinai began a surgical mask initiative on the BMT unit. The purpose of our initiative was to assess the impact of surgical mask implementation for healthcare workers and visitors on nosocomial RVI in all patients hospitalized on the BMT unit. We hypothesized that implementing surgical masks would reduce the number of hospital‐acquired RVI. We performed a retrospective study involving all patients with malignancy hospitalized on the BMT unit for 4 years. During the latter 2 years, all healthcare workers and visitors were required to wear a surgical mask in every patient room on the BMT unit. Primary endpoint was incidence of RVI after implementation of surgical masks. The 2‐year incidence of RVI in the pre‐mask period was 14 out of a total of 15 001 patient days on the unit vs 2 out of 15 608 patient days after mask implementation. The difference in incidence of RVI within the two time intervals was noted to be statistically significant (P<.05, 2‐proportion z‐test). Our quality initiative demonstrated that surgical masks are an infection control modality that may provide benefit to oncology/BMT units by decreasing the risk for hospital‐acquired RVI.
THE USE OF SMALL FIELD‐OF‐VIEW 3 TESLA MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING FOR IDENTIFICATION OF ARTICULAR CARTILAGE DEFECTS IN THE CANINE STIFLE: AN EX VIVO CADAVERIC STUDY
Authors: Ruoff Catherine M. , Eichelberger Bunita M. , Pool Roy R. , Griffin John F. , Cummings Kevin J. , Pozzi Antonio , Padua Abraham , Saunders W. Brian
Published: September 2016

Noninvasive identification of canine articular cartilage injuries is challenging. The objective of this prospective, cadaveric, diagnostic accuracy study was to determine if small field‐of‐view, three tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was an accurate method for identifying experimentally induced cartilage defects in canine stifle joints. Forty‐two canine cadaveric stifles (n = 6/group) were treated with sham control, 0.5, 1.0, or 3.0 mm deep defects in the medial or lateral femoral condyle. Proton density‐weighted, T1‐weighted, fast‐low angle shot, and T2 maps were generated in dorsal and sagittal planes. Defect location and size were independently determined by two evaluators and compared to histologic measurements. Accuracy of MRI was determined using concordance correlation coefficients. Defects were identified correctly in 98.8% (Evaluator 1) and 98.2% (Evaluator 2) of joints. Concordance correlation coefficients between MRI and histopathology were greater for defect depth (Evaluator 1: 0.68–0.84; Evaluator 2: 0.76–0.83) compared to width (Evaluator 1: 0.30–0.54; Evaluator 2: 0.48–0.68). However, MRI overestimated defect depth (histopathology: 1.65 ± 0.94 mm; Evaluator 1, range of means: 2.07–2.38 mm; Evaluator 2, range of means: 2–2.2 mm) and width (histopathology: 6.98 ± 1.32 mm; Evaluator 1, range of means: 8.33–8.8 mm; Evaluator 2, range of means: 6.64–7.16 mm). Using the paired t‐test, the mean T2 relaxation time of cartilage defects was significantly greater than the mean T2 relaxation time of adjacent normal cartilage for both evaluators (P < 0.0001). Findings indicated that MRI is an accurate method for identifying cartilage defects in the cadaveric canine stifle. Additional studies are needed to determine the in vivo accuracy of this method.
Explicit Analytical Solutions for a Complete Set of the Eshelby Tensors of an Ellipsoidal Inclusion
Authors: Jin Xiaoqing , Lyu Ding , Zhang Xiangning , Zhou Qinghua , Wang Qian , Keer Leon M.
Published: September 2016

The celebrated solution of the Eshelby ellipsoidal inclusion has laid the cornerstone for many fundamental aspects of micromechanics. A well-known difficulty of this classical solution is to determine the elastic field outside the ellipsoidal inclusion. In this paper, we first analytically present the full displacement field of an ellipsoidal inclusion subjected to uniform eigenstrain. It is demonstrated that the displacements inside inclusion are linearly related to the coordinates and continuous across the interface of inclusion and matrix. The exterior displacement, which is less detailed in existing literatures, may be expressed in a more compact, explicit, and simpler form through utilizing the outward unit normal vector of an auxiliary confocal ellipsoid. Other than many practical applications in geological engineering, the displacement solution can be a convenient starting point to derive the deformation gradient, and subsequently in a straightforward manner to accomplish the full-field solutions of the strain and stress. Following Eshelby's definition, a complete set of the Eshelby tensors corresponding to the displacement, deformation gradient, strain, and stress are expressed in explicit analytical form. Furthermore, the jump conditions to quantify the discontinuities across the interface are discussed and a benchmark problem is provided to validate the present formulation.
Performance Relationships in Timed and Mass-Start Events for Elite Omnium Cyclists
Authors: Phillips Kathryn E. , Hopkins Will G.
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To explore the extent to which factors that determine performance transfer within and between time-trial and mass-start events in the track-cycling Omnium.

Methods:

Official finish rank in the 3 time-trial events, in the 3 mass-start events, and in the competition overall were collated in 20 international Omnium competitions between 2010 and 2014 for 196 male and 140 female cyclists. Linear mixed modeling of the log-transformed finish time for the time-trial events and of log-transformed finish rank for all events and final rank provided estimates of within-athlete race-to-race changes in performance and average betweenathletes differences across a season. These estimates were converted to various correlations representing relationships within and between the various events and final rank.

Results:

Intraclass correlation coefficients, representing race-to-race reproducibility of performance, were similar whether derived from finish rank or finish time for the time-trial events. Log-transformed finish ranks are therefore a suitable measure to assess and compare performance in time-trial and mass-start events. Omnium cyclists were more predictable in their performances from race to race in the timed events, whereas reduced predictability was observed in mass-start events. Interevent correlations indicated stronger links in performance between the timed disciplines, whereas performance in any of the mass-start events had only a slight positive relationship with performance in the other massstart events and little or no relationship with the timed events.

Conclusions:

Further investigation is warranted to determine whether factors related to performance in mass-start events can be identified to improve reproducibility or whether variability in performance results from random chance.
The Neuromuscular Qualities of Higher- and Lower-Level Mixed-Martial-Arts Competitors
Authors: James Lachlan P. , Beckman Emma M. , Kelly Vincent G. , Haff G. Gregory
Published: September 2016

Purpose:

To determine whether the maximal strength, impulse, and power characteristics of competitive mixed-martial-arts (MMA) athletes differ according to competition level.

Methods:

Twenty-nine male semiprofessional and amateur MMA competitors were stratified into either higher-level (HL) or lower-level (LL) performers on the basis of competition grade and success. The 1-repetition-maximum (1RM) squat was used to assess lower-body dynamic strength, and a spectrum of impulse, power, force, and velocity variables were evaluated during an incremental-load jump squat. In addition, participants performed an isometric midthigh pull (IMTP) and 1RM bench press to determine whole-body isometric force and upper-body dynamic strength capabilities, respectively. All force and power variables were expressed relative to body mass (BM).

Results:

The HL competitors produced significantly superior values across a multitude of measures. These included 1RM squat strength (1.84 ± 0.23 vs 1.56 ± 0.24 kg BM; P = .003), in addition to performance in the incremental-load jump squat that revealed greater peak power (P = .005–.002), force (P = .002–.004), and velocity (P = .002–.03) at each load. Higher measures of impulse (P = .01–.04) were noted in a number of conditions. Average power (P = .002–.02) and velocity (P = .01–.04) at all loads in addition to a series of rate-dependent measures were also superior in the HL group (P = .005–.02). The HL competitors’ 1RM bench-press values approached significantly greater levels (P = .056) than the LL group’s, but IMTP performance did not differ between groups.

Conclusions:

Maximal lower-body neuromuscular capabilities are key attributes distinguishing HL from LL MMA competitors. This information can be used to inform evidenced-based training and performance-monitoring practices.
Plant-produced biopharmaceuticals: A case of technical developments driving clinical deployment
Authors: Lomonossoff George P. , D’Aoust Marc-André
Published: September 2016

The ability to express heterologous proteins in plants has led to the concept of using plants as “bioreactors” or “biofactories” for the production of pharmaceutical proteins. Although initial studies were promising, the pathway to commercialization and deployment in a clinical setting has proven to be a somewhat rocky road. This Review examines the technical developments that have led to the current increase in interest in the use of plants for the production of pharmaceutical proteins, particularly in the context of clinical trials.
Will latest U.S. law lead to successful schools in STEM?
Authors: Gamoran Adam
Published: September 2016

Despite shortcomings, there is room for cautious optimism
Plating up solutions
Authors: Garnett Tara
Published: September 2016

Can eating patterns be both healthier and more sustainable?
New Panfungal Real-Time PCR Assay for Diagnosis of Invasive Fungal Infections
Authors: Valero Clara , de la Cruz-Villar Laura , Zaragoza Óscar , Buitrago María José
Published: September 2016

The diagnosis of invasive fungal infections (IFIs) is usually based on the isolation of the fungus in culture and histopathological techniques. However, these methods have many limitations often delaying the definitive diagnosis. In recent years, molecular diagnostics methods have emerged as a suitable alternative for IFI diagnosis. When there is not a clear suspicion of the fungus involved in the IFI, panfungal real-time PCR assays have been used, allowing amplification of any fungal DNA. However, this approach requires subsequent amplicon sequencing to identify the fungal species involved, increasing response time. In this work, a new panfungal real-time PCR assay using the combination of an intercalating dye and sequence-specific probes was developed. After DNA amplification, a melting curve analysis was also performed. The technique was standardized by using 11 different fungal species and validated in 60 clinical samples from patients with proven and probable IFI. A melting curve database was constructed by collecting those melting curves obtained from fungal species included in the standardization assay. Results showed high reproducibility (coefficient of variation [CV] < 5%;
r
> 0.95) and specificity (100%). The overall sensitivity of the technique was 83.3%, with the group of fungi involved in the infection detected in 77.8% of the positive samples with IFIs covered by molecular beacon probes. Moreover, sequencing was avoided in 67.8% of these “probe-positive” results, enabling report of a positive result in 24 h. This technique is fast, sensitive, and specific and promises to be useful for improving early diagnosis of IFIs.