bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Policy instruments at work: A meta‐analysis of their applications
Authors: Acciai Claudia , Capano Giliberto 
Published: May 2020

AbstractThis article uses a systematic review of the main literature in the field to shed light on different operationalizations of the main classifications of policy instruments. Although the literature offers a large number of instrument taxonomies, many of them act as theoretical guidelines rather than operational concepts that can help to disentangle the different features of governing actions. This article provides a review of the most frequently used policy instrument typologies and, through a meta‐analysis, it analyses how instrument typologies have been differentially adopted to explain real‐world phenomena. The results are a high degree of heterogeneity in citation frequency, the polyhedral nature of the concept of policy instruments, a divide between typologies focused on governmental resources and those focused on drivers of expected behaviour, and ‘labellism’. Thus, what emerges is the urgency of a process of convergence towards a common framework.
Using public databases for genomic prediction of tropical maize lines
Authors: Pinho Morais Pedro Patric , Akdemir Deniz , Braatz de Andrade Luciano Rogério , Jannink Jean‐Luc , Fritsche‐Neto Roberto , Borém Aluízio , Couto Alves Filipe , Hottis Lyra Danilo , Granato Ítalo Stefanine Correia 
Published: May 2020

AbstractIn this paper, the aims were (a) to test the usefulness of using genomic and phenotypic information from public databases (open access) to predict genetic values for tropical maize inbred lines regarding plant and ear height; (b) to identify how the population structure, the use of optimized training sets (OTSs) and the amount of information originating from public databases affect the predictive ability. Thus, 29 training sets (TSs) were defined considering three diversity panels: the University of São Paulo (USP—validation set (VS)) and the ASSO and USDA North Central Regional Plant Introduction Station (NCRPIS) (external public panels—predictors), which were divided into four scenarios with different TS configurations. We showed that it is possible to use public datasets as a primary TS and that population structure can modify the predictive abilities of GS. In the four scenarios proposed, very large or very small sets did not provide predictive abilities over 0.53 for GS. However, OTSs composed of 250 individuals were sufficient to achieve predictive abilities over this limit.
Influence of speaker's gender on speaker introductions at the 2018 ACVS Surgical Summit
Authors: Boston Sarah E , Hayes Galina , Colopy Sara A , Kennedy Katie C , Skinner Owen T , Boylan Matthew T , Sumner Julia P , Kirpensteijn Jolle , James Frances M 
Published: May 2020

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate whether formality of introduction differed between male vs female speakers at the 2018 American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS) scientific meeting and identify other variables that predisposed introducers or chairs to informal introduction.Study designObservational study.Sample populationThirteen session chairs introducing 68 lectures (41 by females, 27 by males) by 63 speakers.MethodsObservers recorded the session introducer, speaker, and whether speakers were introduced with a formal or informal title. Information evaluated included type of oral presentation; introducer gender, year, and country of graduation from veterinary school; speaker gender; whether the speaker was a resident; and speaker's year of graduation.ResultsFemale speakers were introduced by their first name in 9 of 41 introductions compared to in 1 of 27 introductions for male speakers. This difference reached statistical significance when data independence was assumed (P = .043); however, this significance was narrowly lost when data clustering on session introducer was controlled for (P = .067).ConclusionIn this study, female speakers were more likely than male speakers to be introduced by their first and last names rather than with their professional title at a recent ACVS scientific meeting.Impact: Additional research is required to determine the effect of this type of subordinate language and gender bias in veterinary surgery.
Repeated stretch–shortening contraction of the triceps surae attenuates muscle atrophy and liver dysfunction in a rat model of inflammation
Authors: Sumi Koichiro , Ashida Kinya , Nakazato Koichi 
Published: May 2020

New Findings
What is the central question of this study?
Is stretch–shortening contraction effective to attenuate skeletal muscle atrophy and hepatic dysfunction in a rat model of peptidoglycan–polysaccharide (PG‐PS)‐induced inflammation (PG‐PS rat)?

What are the main findings and their importance?
Stretch–shortening contraction attenuates skeletal muscle atrophy in the trained leg and increases circulating interleukin‐10 in PG‐PS rats. Stretch–shortening contraction also ameliorates liver dysfunction in PG‐PS rats, possibly via increased blood interleukin‐10. These findings are important because they suggest that stretch–shortening contraction is effective to maintain liver function in addition to exercised skeletal muscle mass.
AbstractStretch–shortening contraction (SSC) is an effective modality to improve skeletal muscle mass. However, the beneficial effects of SSC in the presence of chronic inflammation remain unclear. Here, we imposed five SSC sessions unilaterally on the triceps surae in young female Lewis rats. Rats were injected with vehicle or peptidoglycan–polysaccharide (PG‐PS) to induce long‐lasting inflammation. The PG‐PS reduced gastrocnemius muscle mass in both legs, but that of the SSC‐trained leg was significantly greater than that of the contralateral leg. Circulating pro‐inflammatory cytokines, such as IL‐1β, were significantly increased by PG‐PS injection, even if carrying out SSC. The circulating anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐10 increased with SSC in both healthy and inflammatory conditions. Stretch–shortening contraction also prevented increases in serum aspartate aminotransferase activity and plasma free phenylalanine concentration induced by PG‐PS, in comparison to the control resistance exercise consisting of isometric contractions. Moreover, aspartate aminotransferase and phenylalanine concentrations demonstrated a significant and negative correlation with IL‐10/IL‐1β values (r = −0.61, P = 0.017, and r = −0.66, P = 0.008, respectively). These results suggest that SSC training is effective to reduce both muscle atrophy and the hepatic dysfunction induced by PG‐PS, mediated, at least in part, through an increase in circulating IL‐10.
Santa Cruz Island field trip: Geology, history, and research opportunities
Authors: Davis* Thomas L. , Behl† Richard J. , O’Sullivan† Katie M. , Raskin Sarah , Bryne Stephen 
Published: May 2020

ABSTRACT
This field trip provides a rare opportunity to visit outcrops and structures that highlight the geology, history, and natural beauty of Santa Cruz Island, a remnant of prehistoric California isolated off Santa Barbara. Santa Cruz Island provides some of the most southwestward positioned subaerial outcrops of the North American landmass, while displaying a rare glimpse of prehistoric coastal southern California and picturesque and seldom accessible exposures of Tertiary strata. Most of the stops are difficult to reach and many are closed to public access. Stops 1, 9, 9B, 9C, 13, and 13B are within the Channel Islands National Park, and access to the park portion of the island is by public boat transport (Island Packers) from Ventura Harbor to Prisoners Harbor. Stop 1 is near the pier at Prisoners Harbor and easily accessible; however, the other stops require roundtrip hikes of at least 10 miles from the pier. One of the goals of this four-day trip is to visit as much of the island’s varied geology as possible. A significant body of widely recognized geologic research has been done on the island from late Quaternary sea-level and climate changes to the tectonic evolution of the western North American plate boundary, and in particular the transformation of a subduction to transform plate boundary along a continental margin. Discovery that SCI and the western Transverse Ranges have rotated ~90° clockwise since the early Miocene (Kamerling and Luyendyk, 1979, 1985; Luyendyk et al., 1980) brought on an intense period of research on the island from the late 1970s through the 1990s. Much of this work has been published in both the formal and informal literature. Two decades later, this field trip is an opportunity to review much of these additions to geologic understanding with the advantage of gains in knowledge since then. The guide will emphasize each stop’s importance, offer questions for future research, and showcase the island’s earth science educational opportunities. This four-day trip requires 4WD vehicles and includes some 3–6 km (~2–4 mile) hikes.
Onset of permanent Taklimakan Desert linked to the mid-Pleistocene transition
Authors: Liu Weiguo , Liu Zhonghui , Sun Jimin , Song Chunhui , Chang Hong , Wang Huanye , Wang Zheng , An Zhisheng 
Published: May 2020

Abstract
The initial occurrence of desert landscape or eolian sand dunes is thought to have occurred long before the Pleistocene, and desertification was subsequently enhanced under cold, dusty glacial conditions. However, when and how the desert landscape persisted during both glacial and interglacial periods, defined as “permanent” desert here, remain elusive. Here, we present carbonate carbon isotope and grain-size records from the Tarim Basin, western China, revealing a detailed desertification history for the Taklimakan Desert. Our records demonstrate that after desiccation of episodic lakes at ca. 4.9 Ma, alternations of eolian sand dunes and fluvial and playa-like conditions persisted for a long period until 0.7 Ma in the Tarim Basin. The onset of permanent desert landscape around 0.7–0.5 Ma occurred concurrently with the climatic reorganization across the mid-Pleistocene transition. The occurrence of mountain glaciers on the Tibetan Plateau and atmospheric circulation changes may have controlled the formation and extreme aridification of the permanent desert in inland Asia since the mid-Pleistocene transition.
Androgens In Men Study (AIMS): protocol for meta-analyses of individual participant data investigating associations of androgens with health outcomes in men
Authors: Yeap Bu Beng , Marriott Ross James , Adams Robert J , Antonio Leen , Ballantyne Christie M , Bhasin Shalender , Cawthon Peggy M , Couper David John , Dobs Adrian S , Flicker Leon , Karlsson Magnus , Martin Sean A , Matsumoto Alvin M , Mellström Dan , Norman Paul E , Ohlsson Claes , Orwoll Eric S , O'Neill Terence W , Shores Molly M , Travison Thomas G , Vanderschueren Dirk , Wittert Gary A , Wu Frederick C W , Murray Kevin 
Published: May 2020

IntroductionThis study aims to clarify the role(s) of endogenous sex hormones to influence health outcomes in men, specifically to define the associations of plasma testosterone with incidence of cardiovascular events, cancer, dementia and mortality risk, and to identify factors predicting testosterone concentrations. Data will be accrued from at least three Australian, two European and four North American population-based cohorts involving approximately 20 000 men.Methods and analysisEligible studies include prospective cohort studies with baseline testosterone concentrations measured using mass spectrometry and 5 years of follow-up data on incident cardiovascular events, mortality, cancer diagnoses or deaths, new-onset dementia or decline in cognitive function recorded. Data for men, who were not taking androgens or drugs suppressing testosterone production, metabolism or action; and had no prior orchidectomy, are eligible. Systematic literature searches were conducted from 14 June 2019 to 31 December 2019, with no date range set for searches. Aggregate level data will be sought where individual participant data (IPD) are not available. One-stage IPD random-effects meta-analyses will be performed, using linear mixed models, generalised linear mixed models and either stratified or frailty-augmented Cox regression models. Heterogeneity in estimates from different studies will be quantified and bias investigated using funnel plots. Effect size estimates will be presented in forest plots and non-negligible heterogeneity and bias investigated using subgroup or meta-regression analyses.Ethics and disseminationEthics approvals obtained for each of the participating cohorts state that participants have consented to have their data collected and used for research purposes. The Androgens In Men Study has been assessed as exempt from ethics review by the Human Ethics office at the University of Western Australia (file reference number RA/4/20/5014). Each of the component studies had obtained ethics approvals; please refer to respective component studies for details. Research findings will be disseminated to the scientific and broader community via the publication of four research articles, with each involving a separate set of IPD meta-analyses (articles will investigate different, distinct outcomes), at scientific conferences and meetings of relevant professional societies. Collaborating cohort studies will disseminate findings to study participants and local communities.PROSPERO registration numberCRD42019139668.
Challenges of early renal cancer detection: symptom patterns and incidental diagnosis rate in a multicentre prospective UK cohort of patients presenting with suspected renal cancer
Authors: Vasudev Naveen S , Wilson Michelle , Stewart Grant D , Adeyoju Adebanji , Cartledge Jon , Kimuli Michael , Datta Shibendra , Hanbury Damian , Hrouda David , Oades Grenville , Patel Poulam , Soomro Naeem , Sullivan Mark , Webster Jeff , Selby Peter J , Banks Rosamonde E 
Published: May 2020

ObjectivesTo describe the frequency and nature of symptoms in patients presenting with suspected renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and examine their reliability in achieving early diagnosis.DesignMulticentre prospective observational cohort study.Setting and participantsEleven UK centres recruiting patients presenting with suspected newly diagnosed RCC. Symptoms reported by patients were recorded and reviewed. Comprehensive clinico-pathological and outcome data were also collected.OutcomesType and frequency of reported symptoms, incidental diagnosis rate, metastasis-free survival and cancer-specific survival.ResultsOf 706 patients recruited between 2011 and 2014, 608 patients with a confirmed RCC formed the primary study population. The majority (60%) of patients were diagnosed incidentally. 87% of patients with stage Ia and 36% with stage III or IV disease presented incidentally. Visible haematuria was reported in 23% of patients and was commonly associated with advanced disease (49% had stage III or IV disease). Symptomatic presentation was associated with poorer outcomes, likely reflecting the presence of higher stage disease. Symptom patterns among the 54 patients subsequently found to have a benign renal mass were similar to those with a confirmed RCC.ConclusionsRaising public awareness of RCC-related symptoms as a strategy to improve early detection rates is limited by the fact that related symptoms are relatively uncommon and often associated with advanced disease. Greater attention must be paid to the feasibility of screening strategies and the identification of circulating diagnostic biomarkers.
Off-label drugs in palliative care: a Group Delphi treatment recommendation process
Authors: Remi Constanze , Weingärtner Kathrin , Hagemann Vera , Bausewein Claudia , Hodiamont Farina 
Published: May 2020

ObjectivesThe use of drugs beyond their marketing authorisation, that is, off-label use, is common practice in palliative care with over 70% of off-label use having little or no scientific support. The lack of evidence makes recommendations for off-label use essential, in order to increase the safety of drug therapy and thus patient safety. The aim of this study was to develop a guide for preparing and consenting drug-specific recommendations for off-label use in palliative care.MethodsGroup Delphi Study with three rounds and a prior online survey to identify topics of dissent. Participants represented professional groups working in palliative care involved in direct patient care and/or drug management and various care settings. Furthermore, representatives of relevant professional associations, experts with academic, non-clinical background and experts with international expertise were invited.Results18/20 invited professionals participated in the prior online-survey. 15 experts participated in the Group Delphi process. Six domains, including identification of drugs, drug uses, assessment of evidence, formulation, consensus and updating of recommendations were generated and respective statements were included in the Group Delphi process. The consensus process resulted in 28 statements forming the guide for recommendations.ConclusionsThe resultant systematic approach for preparing and consenting drug-specific recommendations for off-label use will allow the development of recommendations with transparent and reproducible monographs. This will help to increase treatment quality and patient safety as well as security of decision-making in palliative care. The developed guide is part of a larger project aiming to provide therapy recommendations for areas that have little or no scientific evidence.
Layered, 2D MnPS3: UV Photodetectors and Humidity Sensors
Authors: Kumar Rajat , Naidu Ramesh , Austeria Muthu P , Sampath Srinivasan 
Published: May 2020

Two dimensional, layered metal thiophosphates with general formula, MPX3 (M is metal and X is a chalcogen atom) have been emerging as a new class of tunable band gap semiconductors. In this family, manganese phosphosulphide (MnPS3) is a p-type semiconductor with a large band gap of 3.0 eV and hence is a good candidate for UV light detection. In the present study, highly oriented, large-sized crystals have been grown by chemical vapour transport technique with iodine as the transport agent. Field effect transistors based on bulk and few-layer MnPS3 have been fabricated by exfoliating the crystals on Si/SiO2 substrates. Electrical characteristics reveal p-type behaviour with current on-off ratio of ~103 under ambient conditions. The transistor devices are responsive to ultraviolet light with photoresponstivity of 288AW-1 at a wavelength of 365 nm. Fairly high photo gain value of 860 is achieved. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal various parameters that are responsible for the observed p-type conduction observed in electrical transport studies.
The MnPS3 semiconductors show very good humidity sensing behaviour. Liquid exfoliation technique has been used to exfoliate the bulk crystals into few-layer 2D MnPS3. Very stable, few layer colloids of MnPS3 is vacuum filtered and the membrane is transferred on to interdigitated electrodes to form the sensing device. The results revealed that the conductivity of the films increases five to six orders of magnitude with a change in relative humidity (RH) from 0% to 98%. A fast response and recovery time of ~1-2 s and ~ 4 s are observed respectively. AC impedance spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy techniques are utilized to understand the sensing mechanism. Further, the sensor has been shown to monitor human breath and water evaporation from skin without any physical contact.

References

1. R. Kumar, R. N. Jenjeti, M. P. Austeria and S. Sampath, J. Mater. Chem. C 2019, 7 (2), 324.
2. R. Kumar, R. N. Jenjeti and S. Sampath, Adv. Mater. Inter. 2019, 6(20), 1900666.
Passivation of Defects in Macroscopic Graphene Sheets Via Selective Atomic Layer Deposition of Metal Oxides
Authors: Mazza Michael F. , Thompson Annelise C. , Cabán-Acevedo Miguel , Lewis Nathan S 
Published: May 2020

Graphene, with its high conductivity, specific surface area, and overall chemical inertness, has been heavily researched for applications in batteries, supercapacitors, and water-splitting devices. While graphene films can be synthesized over large areas (>1 cm2) through chemical vapor deposition, graphene generated through this route exhibits a high defect density that can inhibit performance and stability in electrochemical systems. Considerable effort has been devoted to passivating, repairing, and remediating these defects for graphene-based devices to match their theoretical potential.
To this end, we have developed new atomic layer deposition (ALD) processes designed to selectively passivate high energy defect sites with metal oxides. This deposition chemistry targets dangling bonds and oxidized regions on the graphene sheet based on their higher reactivity relative to the pristine basal plane. We have also demonstrated analogous chemistry on bulk highly-ordered pyrolytic graphite as well as exfoliated few-layer graphene. The efficacy of the deposition process was examined as a function of precursor dose and temperature. The selectivity of this process and metal-oxide layer thicknesses was assessed using several electron microscopy techniques. This work further illustrates an effective scheme to ameliorate the interfacial chemistry of large-area graphene and demonstrate how targeted passivation can improve device performance.