bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Anti-Proliferative Lichen-Compound Protolichesterinic Acid Inhibits Oxidative Phosphorylation and Is Processed via the Mercapturic Pathway in Cancer Cells
Authors: Jóhannsson Freyr , Cherek Paulina , Xu Maonian , Rolfsson Óttar , Ögmundsdóttir Helga M.
Published: September 2021

The lichen compound protolichesterinic acid (PA) has an anti-proliferative effect against several cancer cell lines of different origin. This effect cannot be explained by the known inhibitory activity of PA against 5- and 12-lipoxygenases. The aim was therefore to search for mechanisms for the anti-proliferative activity of PA. Two cancer cell lines of different origin, both sensitive to anti-proliferative effects of PA, were selected for this study, T-47D from breast cancer and AsPC-1 from pancreatic cancer. Morphological changes were assessed by transmission electron microscopy, HPLC coupled with TOF spectrometry was used for metabolomics, mitochondrial function was measured using the Agilent Seahorse XFp Real-time ATP assay and glucose/lactate levels by radiometry. Levels of glutathione, NADP/NADPH and reactive oxygen species [ROS] were measured by luminescence. Following exposure to PA both cell lines showed structural changes in mitochondria that were in line with
a measured reduction in oxidative phosphorylation and increased glycolysis. These changes were more marked in T-47D, which had poorer mitochondrial function at baseline. PA was processed and expelled from the cells via the mercapturic pathway, which consumes glutathione. Nevertheless, glutathione levels were increased after 24 hours of exposure to PA, implying enhanced synthesis. Redox balance was not much affected and ROS levels were not increased. We conclude that PA is metabolically processed and expelled from cells, leading indirectly to increased glutathione levels with minimal effects on redox balance. The most marked effect was on mitochondrial structure and metabolic function implying that effects of PA may depend on mitochondrial fitness.
Midterm Survival of a Varus–Valgus Constrained Implant following One-Stage Revision for Periprosthetic Joint Infection: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Ji Baochao , Li Guoqing , Zhang Xiaogang , Wang Yang , Mu Wenbo , Cao Li
Published: September 2021

Revision total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is challenging to perform in patients with periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) due to the difficulty of eradicating the infection and potential for bone and ligamentous deficits. The current study aimed to evaluate the midterm survival of varus–valgus constrained (VVC) implants used in one-stage revision TKA for chronic PJI at our institution. This retrospective analysis included 132 patients with chronic PJI who underwent one-stage revision using a VVC implant. The average follow-up was 51.6 months (range: 24–85 months). Five-year survival analysis was performed to set recurrent infection and mechanical failure as the end point. Hospital for special surgery (HSS) as functional outcomes was evaluated preoperatively and at the latest follow-up. A total of 12 patients (9.1%) underwent retreatment for reinfection (nine patients) and mechanical failure (three patients). The overall 5-year revision-free survival was 82.7%, the infection-free survival was 91.1%, and the mechanical failure-free survival was 98.3%. The preoperative HSS knee score improved from 35.6 points (range: 24.3–47.7 points) preoperatively to 76.8 points (range: 57.2–87.6 points) at the latest follow-up. Complications were identified in 20 patients (15.2%) which included aseptic osteolysis in 4 cases, acceptable flexion instability in 3 cases, arthrofibrosis in 2 patients, hematomas in 2 cases, calf intermuscular venous thrombosis in 6 patients, and femoral stem tip pain in 3 cases. This is the first study to report the outcomes of one-stage revision using VVC implants for knee PJI. Improved functional outcomes and good midterm survival are demonstrated at an average follow-up of 51.6 months.
Surgical Ablation of Permanent Atrial Fibrillation: Age, LV Dilatation, Obesity
Authors: Rohrbach Susanne , Dominik Elisabeth , Mirow Nikolas , Vogt Sebastian , Böning Andreas , Niemann Bernd
Published: September 2021

Objectives Although concomitant surgical ablation can help to reach freedom from atrial fibrillation (FREEAF) even in patients with permanent atrial fibrillation (AF), some cardiac surgeons hesitate to perform concomitant ablation to avoid perioperative risk escalation. Here, we investigated outcome and predicators of therapeutic success of concomitant surgical ablation in an all-comers study.

Methods Ablation-naïve patients with formerly accepted permanent AF (FAP, n = 41) or paroxysmal AF (parAF, n = 24) underwent concomitant epicardial bipolar radio frequency ablation and implantable loop recorder (ILR) at two surgical departments. Follow-up examination for 24 months included electrocardiogram, ILR readout, 24h Holter monitoring, echocardiography, and blood sampling.

Results Eighty-six percent of parAF and 70% of FAP patients reached FREEAF (month 24). Mortality was low (parAF/FAP: 5.3 ± 0.2%/4.1 ± 0.3%; p < 0.05; EuroScoreII; 6.1 ± 0.7%/6.4 ± 0.4%, p = ns) and no strokes occurred. FREEAF induced atrial reverse remodeling (left atrial [LA] diameter: −6.7 ± 2.2 mm) and improved cardiac function (left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF]: +7.3 ± 2.8%), while AF resulted in further atrial dilation (+8.0 ± 1.0 mm, p < 0.05) and LVEF reduction (−7.0 ± 1.3%, p < 0.05). Higher LV (odds ratio [OR]: 1.164) and LA diameter (OR: 1.218), age (OR: 1.180) and body mass index (BMI) (OR: 1.503) increased the risk factors of AF recurrence. Patients remaining in sinus rhythm (SR) demonstrated a decrease in BMI, while AF recurrence was associated with stable overweight. Further aging did not reduce FREEAF.

Conclusions Long-term SR is achievable by concomitant surgical ablation even in FAP patients. Therefore, it should be offered routinely. Obesity influences therapeutic long-term success but may also offer addressable therapeutic targets to reach higher FREEAF rates.
Second Attempt of Guided Tissue Regeneration on a Previous Successfully Grafted Site with Periodontal Breakdown—A 5-Year Follow-up
Authors: Foo Lean Heong
Published: September 2021

Guided tissue regeneration (GTR) has been proven to promote attachment and regeneration of periodontal tissue. However, there is a 20 to 40% incidence of attachment loss on regenerated attachments reported in the literature. To my knowledge, this is the first case report on a second attempt in GTR on a previous successful grafted site with clinical attachment loss. A healthy 17-year-old Chinese male patient had GTR performed with xenograft particles and bovine resorbable membrane on his root-canal treated, fused upper right lateral incisor and upper right canine (#12-#13) in 2007. Probing depth on the mid-palatal region of #12-#13 was reduced to 4 mm and maintained for the next 4 years. But in the fifth year, probing depth increased to 11 mm with no endodontic symptoms, and a second attempt of GTR using the same materials was carried out. The probing depth at the surgical site was reduced to 4 mm and successfully maintained for another 5 years. Irregular maintenance and the presence of plaque retentive factor could have caused the clinical attachment loss on #12-#13. This case shows it is possible to attempt GTR on a previous successfully grafted site. GTR did not increase tissue resistance against periodontal breakdown. Hence, proper maintenance planning for GTR sites is important to prevent periodontal breakdown.
Circulation of DENV-3 Genotype 3 during 2017 to 2018 in Delhi: A Single-Center Hospital-Based Study
Authors: Padhi Abhishek , Gupta Ekta , Singh Gaurav , Parveen Shama , Islam Arshi , Tarai Bansidhar
Published: September 2021

Introduction Delhi is hyperendemic for dengue virus (DENV) where all the four DENV have previously been reported. A constant vigilance of circulating DENV serotypes is important in surveillance, since the introduction of a new variant to areas affected by preexisting serotypes constitutes a risk factor for dengue hemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome.

Objectives This retrospective study was performed with an objective to determine the circulating serotype and genotype of DENV in acute phase blood samples of patients who have reported to a tertiary liver care hospital in New Delhi during the last 2 years (2017–2018).

Methods The data of clinician-initiated testing for dengue nonstructural protein 1 (NS1) antigen (Ag) was searched in the institutional hospital information system. The serum sample of dengue NS1 Ag-positive cases confirmed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA; PANBIO, Gyeonggi-do, ROK) and a fever duration of less than 5 days were retrieved from the laboratory archive. The DENV serotyping on these sample was performed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis was done for the capsid premembrane (CprM) region to determine the genotype.

Results A total of 440 acute-phase samples were received. Twenty one (4.77%) were positive for dengue NS1 Ag with a mean age of 35.1 years and male-to-female ratio of 1.1:1. Eight cases (38.09%) were positive by dengue RT-PCR and all belonged to DENV-3 serotypes. Phylogenetic tree analysis revealed DENV-3 clustered to genotype III with 100% homology with 2008 Indian subcontinent strain.

Conclusion This study revealed circulation of DENV-3, genotype III in Delhi from 2017 to 2018, similar to the 2008 viral type. Virological surveillance is an important exercise to be done for viral infections with public threat and outbreak potential.
A Scoping Review of Artificial Intelligence Algorithms in Clinical Decision Support Systems for Internal Medicine Subspecialties
Authors: Narindrarangkura Ploypun , Kim Min Soon , Boren Suzanne A.
Published: September 2021

Objectives Artificial intelligence (AI)-based clinical decision support systems (CDSS) have been developed to solve medical problems and enhance health care management. We aimed to review the literature to identify trends and applications of AI algorithms in CDSS for internal medicine subspecialties.

Methods A scoping review was conducted in PubMed, IEEE Xplore, and Scopus to determine articles related to CDSS using AI algorithms that use deep learning, machine learning, and pattern recognition. This review synthesized the main purposes of CDSS, types of AI algorithms, and overall accuracy of algorithms. We searched the original research published in English between 2009 and 2019.

Results Given the volume of articles meeting inclusion criteria, the results of 218 of the 3,467 articles were analyzed and presented in this review. These 218 articles were related to AI-based CDSS for internal medicine subspecialties: neurocritical care (n = 89), cardiovascular disease (n = 79), and medical oncology (n = 50). We found that the main purposes of CDSS were prediction (48.4%) and diagnosis (47.1%). The five most common algorithms include: support vector machine (20.9%), neural network (14.6%), random forest (10.5%), deep learning (9.2%), and decision tree (8.8%). The accuracy ranges of algorithms were 61.8 to 100% in neurocritical care, 61.6 to 100% in cardiovascular disease, and 54 to 100% in medical oncology. Only 20.1% of those algorithms had an explainability of AI, which provides the results of the solution that humans can understand.

Conclusion More AI algorithms are applied in CDSS and are important in improving clinical practice. Supervised learning still accounts for a majority of AI applications in internal medicine. This study identified four potential gaps: the need for AI explainability, the lack of ubiquity of CDSS, the narrow scope of target users of CDSS, and the need for AI in health care report standards.
Virtual Learning Improves Attendance for Critical Care Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Scioscia Andrea , Rakkar Jaskaran , Pelletier Jonathan H. , Ghassemzadeh Rod , Hamilton Melinda F. , Fuhrman Dana Y.
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has pushed medical educators and learners to adapt to virtual learning (VL) in an expedited manner. The effect of VL for critical care education has not yet been evaluated. In a quantitative analysis of survey data and attendance records, we sought to determine the association of VL with conference attendance and work-life balance. Attending physicians, fellows, and advanced practice providers (APP) at a pediatric critical care department at a quaternary children's hospital participated in the study. Attendance records were obtained before and after the adaption of a VL platform. In addition, an electronic, anonymous survey to evaluate current satisfaction and the strengths and weaknesses of VL as well as its impact on work-life balance was administered. In total, 31 learners (17 attending physicians, 13 fellows, and 1 APP) completed the survey. A total of 83.9% (26/31) of participants were satisfied, and 77.4% (24/31) found VL to be similar or more engaging than non-VL. However, 6.5% (2/31) of learners reported difficulty in using the new platform, 87% (27/31) of participants supported VL as an effective learning tool, and 83.3% (25/30) reported a positive impact on work-life balance. Additionally, median monthly conference attendance increased significantly from 85 to 114 attendees per month (p < 0.05). Our results suggest that a virtual model has advantages for overall attendance and work-life balance. We anticipate VL will continue to be an integral part of medical education. Future work evaluating the impact of VL on interdepartmental and interinstitutional collaborations is needed.
Mapping the Photoresponse of the Quantum-Dot Based Photon-Number-Resolving Detector
Authors: Geerdts Trevor , Govin Connor , Gansen Eric
Published: September 2021

Efficient and versatile photon-number resolving detectors are critical to the development of future communication systems. The quantum-dot, optically-gated, field-effect transistor (QDOGFET) is one such detector. Utilizing quantum dots (QDs), tiny islands of semiconductor, imbedded in a transistor, QDOGFETs have been shown to exhibit single-photon sensitivity and photon-number-resolving (PNR) capabilities. A photon is detected when it photocharges a QD, which alters the amount of current flowing through the transistor by screening the gate field. Crucial to the resolving power is that each charged QD produce the same response, regardless of its location within the active area of the device. Here, we investigate the extent spatial nonuniformities in the QDOGFET’s response to light limit its ability to distinguish different numbers of photons. By using an optical-scanning microscope (OSM), contour plots of a QDOGFET’s response are acquired that show that the device exhibits localized “hotspots” where it is particularly sensitive to photons. The spatial resolution of the microscope is enhanced by capping the QDOGFET with a solid-immersion lens (SIL). We present experimental results that show how the hotspots depend on bias conditions and help decipher the root cause of the nonuniformities.
Probing the Energy Gaps of a Multi-Gap Superconductor: Ba(1-x)KxFe2As2
Authors: Ramanathan Keeran , Conover Luke , Wackwitz Oberon , Ramos Roberto
Published: September 2021

In order to spectroscopically probe the superconducting energy gap of potassium-doped Ba122 iron pnictides, in particular Ba(1-x)KxFe2As2 where x = 0.33 (under-doped regime), we have performed four-wire conductance measurements from T = 2K to 52K. We report evidence for multi-gap features with gaps corresponding to directional tunneling through the ab- axes of this iron pnictide. The multi-gap features a predominant result of tunneling across the ab- plane with gaps of Δ1 = 2-4 meV and Δ2 = 9-11 meV. These gap values are temperature dependent.
Test Particle Calculation of Plasma Equilibria
Authors: Sullivan-Wood Jonathan , Holland Daniel
Published: September 2021

We present a numerical technique for self-consistently calculating plasma equilibria with prescribed sources and sinks on the boundaries, i.e. a scattering system. The method is applied to the earth’smagnetotail. The method follows individual particles through a prescribed magnetic field, while calculating the density, current and pressure that the particle contributes on a uniformly spaced grid. The individual particles are weighted to model a given source distribution and the total equilibrium properties, including the resulting magnetic field, are evaluated. The calculated and prescribed magnetic fields are then compared. If the fields differ significantly, the two fields are mixed and the process repeated. Convergence to the self-consistent field typically takes between 100 and 150 iterations.
Experimental confirmation of long hyperbolic polariton lifetimes in monoisotopic (10B) hexagonal boron nitride at room temperature
Authors: Pavlidis Georges , Schwartz Jeffrey J. , Matson Joseph , Folland Thomas , Liu Song , Edgar James H. , Caldwell Josh D. , Centrone Andrea
Published: September 2021

Hyperbolic phonon polaritons (HPhPs) enable strong confinements, low losses, and intrinsic beam steering capabilities determined by the refractive index anisotropy—providing opportunities from hyperlensing to flat optics and other applications. Here, two scanning-probe techniques, photothermal induced resonance (PTIR) and scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy (s-SNOM), are used to map infrared (6.4–7.4 µm) HPhPs in large (up to 120 × 250 µm2) near-monoisotopic (>99% 10B) hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) flakes. Wide (≈40 µm) PTIR and s-SNOM scans on such large flakes avoid interference from polaritons launched from different asperities (edges, folds, surface defects, etc.) and together with Fourier analyses (0.05 µm−1 resolution) enable precise measurements of HPhP lifetimes (up to ≈4.2 ps) and propagation lengths (up to ≈25 and ≈17 µm for the first- and second-order branches, respectively). With respect to naturally abundant hBN, we report an eightfold improved, record-high (for hBN) propagating figure of merit (i.e., with both high confinement and long lifetime) in ≈99% 10B hBN, achieving, finally, theoretically predicted values. We show that wide near-field scans critically enable accurate estimates of the polaritons’ lifetimes and propagation lengths and that the incidence angle of light, with respect to both the sample plane and the flake edge, needs to be considered to extract correctly the dispersion relation from the near-field polaritons maps. Overall, the measurements and data analyses employed here elucidate details pertaining to polaritons’ propagation in isotopically enriched hBN and pave the way for developing high-performance HPhP-based devices.
Microfluidic model of monocyte extravasation reveals the role of hemodynamics and subendothelial matrix mechanics in regulating endothelial integrity
Authors: Pérez-Rodríguez Sandra , Huang Stephanie A. , Borau Carlos , García-Aznar José Manuel , Polacheck William J.
Published: September 2021

Extravasation of circulating cells is an essential process that governs tissue inflammation and the body's response to pathogenic infection. To initiate anti-inflammatory and phagocytic functions within tissues, immune cells must cross the vascular endothelial barrier from the vessel lumen to the subluminal extracellular matrix. In this work, we present a microfluidic approach that enables the recreation of a three-dimensional, perfused endothelial vessel formed by human endothelial cells embedded within a collagen-rich matrix. Monocytes are introduced into the vessel perfusate, and we investigate the role of luminal flow and collagen concentration on extravasation. In vessels conditioned with the flow, increased monocyte adhesion to the vascular wall was observed, though fewer monocytes extravasated to the collagen hydrogel. Our results suggest that the lower rates of extravasation are due to the increased vessel integrity and reduced permeability of the endothelial monolayer. We further demonstrate that vascular permeability is a function of collagen hydrogel mass concentration, with increased collagen concentrations leading to elevated vascular permeability and increased extravasation. Collectively, our results demonstrate that extravasation of monocytes is highly regulated by the structural integrity of the endothelial monolayer. The microfluidic approach developed here allows for the dissection of the relative contributions of these cues to further understand the key governing processes that regulate circulating cell extravasation and inflammation.
Linear stability of dunes and antidunes
Authors: Ali Sk Zeeshan , Dey Subhasish
Published: September 2021

Dunes and antidunes on sand and gravel streambeds propagate with a finite speed, with dunes propagating downstream and antidunes propagating both upstream and downstream. Existing linear stability theories predict the dune propagation reasonably well. However, in light of the experimental data, they fail to accurately predict the directional preference of antidunes. We revisit the problem by employing a one-equation rotational-flow model. For bedload-dominant streams, the phase lag between the sediment flux and the local bed topography is the central mechanism causing the instability. We find a clear signature of the non-propagating perturbation within the unstable region of antidunes, separating the upstream and downstream propagating antidunes. The present model offers a unique reconstruction of the linear stability map, capturing satisfactorily the experimental data of dunes, antidunes, and the transition from dunes to antidunes.
Variations in wetland conditions within the Fitzroy Basin, north-eastern Australia: a palaeoecological approach
Authors: Hanson Johanna M. , VanderGragt Maria L. , Welsh Kevin J. , Moss Patrick T.
Published: September 2021

The North-east Australian Coastal Catchments (NACC) are host to nationally significant wetland complexes, many of which, are ecologically connected to the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage area. However, these wetlands are subject to ongoing and increasing pressure from human activities such as the intensification of land use. Current wetland condition is monitored across the NACC, being assessed against a pre-development static baseline, which includes the use of Regional Ecosystem mapping of remnant and pre-clearing vegetation to provide a broadscale present-day biotic reference. Two sediment cores from wetlands within the Fitzroy Basin were analysed to establish a history of wetland variability and to identify the potential influence of climate and land-use changes over the past ~1000 years. Our results have provided long-term environmental reconstructions, showing wetland histories influenced by natural climate variability (El Niño–Southern Oscillation, the Little Ice Age), and environmental changes associated with European land-use intensification. This study is the first of its kind for wetlands located within the Fitzroy Basin.
Arid Australia as a source of plant diversity: the origin and climatic evolution of
Authors: Hammer Timothy A. , Renton Michael , Mucina Ladislav , Thiele Kevin R.
Published: September 2021

In the present study, we tested the chronological and geographic origins of the mostly arid Australian Ptilotus (Amaranthaceae) and its close relatives (i.e. the ‘aervoids’) by reconstructing a dated phylogeny with near-comprehensive sampling for Ptilotus and estimating ancestral geographic ranges. We investigated climatic niche evolution within Ptilotus and identified likely climatic origins and subsequent niche shifts by reconstructing ancestral states of climatic variables on the phylogeny, which was visualised using a phyloecospace approach. Geospatial analyses were employed to identify probable diversification hotspots within Australia. We inferred that the aervoids originated in Oligocene Africa–Asia and that Ptilotus arrived in northern Australia by dispersal in the Early Miocene. Subsequent diversification of Ptilotus was rapid, giving rise to all major clades in the western Eremaean by the time of an aridification pulse in the Middle Miocene. Climatic niche shifts from the arid Eremaean into monsoonal northern and temperate southern Australia are apparent for multiple independent species groups. Our analyses support the hypothesis that a pre-adaptation to aridity and early arrival in an aridifying Australia were integral to the success of Ptilotus, and that the Eremaean has been a source of biodiversity in the genus and for independent radiations into neighbouring climatic zones.
Sphingolipid metabolism governs Purkinje cell patterned degeneration in
Atxn1[82Q]/+
mice
Authors: Blot François G. C. , Krijnen Wilhelmina H. J. J. , Den Hoedt Sandra , Osório Catarina , White Joshua J. , Mulder Monique T. , Schonewille Martijn
Published: September 2021

Significance

Neuronal subtypes are differentially affected by neuropathologies. For example, Purkinje cells, the principal neurons of the cerebellum, can be divided in subpopulations based on their sensitivity to pathological insult. However, the molecular mechanisms explaining why, among seemingly identical neurons, some will degenerate while others survive remain unknown. Here, we analyzed, in a disease model of cerebellar neurodegeneration, the metabolism of sphingolipids, complex lipids involved in cell apoptosis, and found that specific sphingolipids accumulate in the cerebellar region primarily affected by neurodegeneration. Preventing this accumulation by disrupting sphingolipid metabolism via genetic mutation caused a neuroprotective effect on subpopulations of Purkinje cells. Thus, our data indicate that sphingolipid metabolism is involved in the predisposition of neuronal subtypes to neurodegeneration.
Intrinsic physicochemical profile of marketed antibody-based biotherapeutics
Authors: Ahmed Lucky , Gupta Priyanka , Martin Kyle P. , Scheer Justin M. , Nixon Andrew E. , Kumar Sandeep
Published: September 2021

Significance

Successful biologic drug discovery and development involves finding functional as well as developable candidates. Once a candidate has been demonstrated to be functional, the next step is to determine whether it can be translated into a drug product. This requires that the candidate can withstand stresses encountered during manufacturing, shipping, and storage. Additionally, it must be safe, efficacious, and possess good pharmacology. In silico analyses of the variable regions of 77 marketed antibody-based biotherapeutics have revealed five nonredundant physicochemical descriptors. Distributions of these descriptors, observed for marketed biotherapeutics, can help prioritize a drug candidate for experimental testing at early discovery stages, guide engineering efforts to further optimize it, and help increase the productivity of biologic drug discovery and development.
AR-negative prostate cancer is vulnerable to loss of JMJD1C demethylase
Authors: Yoshihama Yohei , LaBella Kyle A. , Kim Eiru , Bertolet Lori , Colic Medina , Li Jiexi , Shang Xiaoying , Wu Chang-Jiun , Spring Denise J. , Wang Y. Alan , Hart Traver , DePinho Ronald A.
Published: September 2021

Significance

Prostate cancer is a major cause of cancer-related death in men. Emerging resistance to androgen receptor (AR) signaling inhibition therapy has heightened the need to identify therapeutic vulnerabilities specific to AR-negative prostate cancers. Analysis of CRISPR screen datasets in human prostate cancer cells identified high dependency for the histone demethylase JMJD1C across multiple AR-negative model systems. Integrated analyses revealed that combined AR and JMJD1C inactivation drives up-regulation of the TNFα network which provokes growth suppression. The exquisite sensitivity of AR-negative prostate cancer cells to JMJD1C inhibition may provide a therapeutic option for men with progressive castration-resistant prostate cancer.
Secure human attachment can promote support for climate change mitigation
Authors: Nisa Claudia F. , Bélanger Jocelyn J. , Schumpe Birga M. , Sasin Edyta M.
Published: September 2021

Significance

Attachment theory focuses on the primal form of emotional bonding between humans. Attachment is conceptualized as an innate behavioral system aimed at safeguarding against potential threats by assuring proximity to caring and supportive others. When individuals feel securely attached (thus feeling less threatened in most situations), the activation of the caregiving behavioral system (concern for others) is facilitated. With this research, we show that priming attachment security influences how much people care about and accept climate change via an increased empathy for humanity. Furthermore, we demonstrate that this activation bypasses the resistance of politically conservative individuals to mitigate climate change. Overall, we show that attachment security–based stimuli can inform intervention and policymaking strategies to help fight climate change.
Growth–defense trade-offs shape population genetic composition in an iconic forest tree species
Authors: Cope Olivia L. , Keefover-Ring Ken , Kruger Eric L. , Lindroth Richard L.
Published: September 2021

Significance

Genetic diversity is critical for ecological resilience and is maintained when different traits are advantageous in different environments. Traits are not entirely independent, however: When trade-offs occur, selection on one trait may indirectly act on another. Here we examine how environmentally mediated selection for growth interacts with a trade-off between growth and herbivore defense in experimental aspen stands. We show that even an environmentally fixed trait trade-off can lead to real-time divergence in population genetic composition between environments. The underlying growth–defense trade-off led to an eco-evolutionary dynamic wherein high-competition environments selected for fast-growing trees and thus ultimately selected against herbivore resistance. This discovery reveals how patterns of genetic covariation, coupled with environmental variation, can link ecological and evolutionary processes.
STING-driven interferon signaling triggers metabolic alterations in pancreas cancer cells visualized by [
18
F]FLT PET imaging
Authors: Liang Keke , Abt Evan R. , Le Thuc M. , Cho Arthur , Dann Amanda M. , Cui Jing , Li Luyi , Rashid Khalid , Creech Amanda L. , Wei Liu , Ghukasyan Razmik , Rosser Ethan W. , Wu Nanping , Carlucci Giuseppe , Czernin Johannes , Donahue Timothy R. , Radu Caius G.
Published: September 2021

Significance

Our findings indicate that interferon signaling induces metabolic alterations in pancreas cancer cells which can be visualized in vivo by noninvasive 3′-deoxy-3′-[
18
F]fluorothymidine positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. Therefore, PET imaging may have utility as a pharmacodynamic readout in the translation of emerging interferon-inducing therapies, including STING agonists, for cancer therapy.
Sorting for secreted molecule production using a biosensor-in-microdroplet approach
Authors: Bowman Emily K. , Wagner James M. , Yuan Shuo-Fu , Deaner Matthew , Palmer Claire M. , D’Oelsnitz Simon , Cordova Lauren , Li Xin , Craig Frank F. , Alper Hal S.
Published: September 2021

Significance

The design–build–test cycle of metabolic engineering is swiftly becoming test limited owing to advances in DNA synthesis and library design. At the same time, improving extracellular production requires high-throughput studies to detect extracellular (not intracellular) content. Traditional approaches that utilize chromatography-based analysis or plate-based fluorescence assays are relatively throughput limited and require a high degree of liquid handling. These limitations are avoided here by creating a generalizable approach for small molecule production screening. Namely, this paradigm combines “off-the-shelf” biosensors with large library screening from producing cells in a cell-type agnostic manner.
Cultural similarity among coreligionists within and between countries
Authors: White Cindel J. M. , Muthukrishna Michael , Norenzayan Ara
Published: September 2021

Significance

Do people who affiliate with the same religious tradition share cultural traits even if they live in different countries? We found unique patterns of cultural traits across religious groups and found that members of world religions (Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, and Buddhism) show cultural similarity among coreligionists living in different countries. People who share a particular religious tradition and level of commitment to religion were more culturally similar, both within and across countries, than those that do not, even after excluding overtly religious values. Despite their heterogeneity, religious denominations reflect superordinate cultural identities, and shared traits persist across geographic and political boundaries. These findings inform cultural evolutionary theories about the place of religion and secularity in the world’s cultural diversity.
Absolute quantification of tumor antigens using embedded MHC-I isotopologue calibrants
Authors: Stopfer Lauren E. , Gajadhar Aaron S. , Patel Bhavin , Gallien Sebastien , Frederick Dennie T. , Boland Genevieve M. , Sullivan Ryan J. , White Forest M.
Published: September 2021

Absolute quantification measurements (copies per cell) of peptide major histocompatibility complex (pMHC) antigens are necessary to inform targeted immunotherapy drug design; however, existing methods for absolute quantification have critical limitations. Here, we present a platform termed SureQuant-IsoMHC, utilizing a series of pMHC isotopologues and internal standard-triggered targeted mass spectrometry to generate an embedded multipoint calibration curve to determine endogenous pMHC concentrations for a panel of 18 tumor antigens. We apply SureQuant-IsoMHC to measure changes in expression of our target panel in a melanoma cell line treated with a MEK inhibitor and translate this approach to estimate antigen concentrations in melanoma tumor biopsies.
Identifying asymptomatic spreaders of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens in hospital settings
Authors: Pei Sen , Liljeros Fredrik , Shaman Jeffrey
Published: September 2021

Significance

Healthcare-associated infections caused by antimicrobial-resistant agents are hard to eliminate in hospitals partly because of the existence of asymptomatic spreaders who unwittingly transmit these pathogens to others. In practice, identifying asymptomatic patients colonized with antimicrobial-resistant agents is challenging, as only a limited number of carriers are typically observed. Here, we develop an efficient, individual-level inference method capable of estimating the colonization probability for each individual in a hospital network. Using real-world patient-to-patient contact networks and sparse observations of colonization, the proposed method identifies carriers of methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
, a prevalent antimicrobial-resistant pathogen, more accurately than competing approaches informed by hospitalization history and contact tracing. In in silica control experiments, the individual-level inference supports improved, targeted interventions against healthcare-associated infections.
Genuine divalent magnesium-ion storage and fast diffusion kinetics in metal oxides at room temperature
Authors: Yang Jinlin , Li Jibiao , Gong Wenbin , Geng Fengxia
Published: September 2021

Significance

Rechargeable Mg batteries constitute safe and sustainable high-energy density electrochemical energy storage devices. However, due to an extremely high charge density of Mg
2+
ions, “real” Mg
2+
-intercalation chemistry has been rarely realized, and significantly decelerated Mg
2+
-diffusion kinetics is always encountered, especially in metal-oxide systems. Herein, we demonstrate a generic strategy to overcome the hitherto insurmountable challenge of developing rechargeable metal-oxide electrode materials for Mg batteries, with genuine Mg
2+
storage, record fast diffusion kinetics, and excellent cycling performance.
Phonetic fusion in Chinese conversational speech
Authors: Tseng Shu-Chuan
Published: September 2021

This paper presents a corpus-based perspective on the phonetic fusion of disyllabic words in a Chinese conversational speech corpus. Four categorical types that reflect the phonological features of reduction degrees are automatically derived from gradient, acoustic properties. A transcription experiment is conducted with the most common disyllabic words. Both automatic derivation by acoustic signals and human transcription by perceptual judgment refer to the same sound inventory. We have shown that the complete form of fusion occurring in conversation need not be legitimate syllables and it appears consistently in the form of syllable merger that represents a group of phonetic variants.
Stance nouns in COVID-19 related blog posts
Authors: Curry Niall , Pérez-Paredes Pascual
Published: September 2021

Research dissemination through academic blogs creates opportunities for writers to reach wider audiences. With COVID-19, public dissemination of research impacts daily practices, and national and international policies, and in countries like the UK and Spain, The Conversation publishes accessible COVID-19 themed research. Such academic blogs are important to the global academy, yet the role of authorial stance therein is notably under-investigated. This paper presents a corpus-based contrastive analysis of “stance nouns + that/de que” in a comparable corpus of English and Spanish COVID-19 themed academic blogs from The Conversation. The analysis identifies similarities and differences across languages that reflect how COVID-19 is framed in each language. For example, Spanish academics use Possibility and Factualness nouns when self-sourcing their stances with expanding strategies, while English academics use Argument and Idea nouns with external sources in contracting strategies. Overall, this paper adds to current linguistic knowledge on academic blogs and scientific communication surrounding COVID-19.
Pre-adolescents narrate classroom experience
Authors: Fante Isabella , Daiute Colette
Published: September 2021

This study applies sociocultural narrative theory and method to integrate children’s perspectives into research on classroom climate. Sociocultural narrative theory explains how individuals use expressive genres to make sense of environments, how they fit, and what they would like to change. This study incorporates such theory and method into a qualitative research design, applying quantitative analysis techniques to understand trends in student attention and expression. The main goal of this study is to examine whether and how students enact and express socioemotional and spatiotemporal (climate) sensitivities with their use of regular narrative elements. This study employs plot and character analyses to understand 22 sixth graders’ narrations of best and worst classroom experiences. These analyses reveal diverse patterns of focus on classroom events. Differences in the young narrators’ attention highlight areas for ongoing inquiry, with implications for mixed methods studies of classroom climate and related developmental research.
Opioid Treatment Programs, Telemedicine and COVID-19: A Scoping Review
Authors: Chan Brian , Bougatsos Christina , Priest Kelsey C. , McCarty Dennis , Grusing Sara , Chou Roger
Published: September 2021

Background: Methadone and buprenorphine are effective medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) that are highly regulated in the United States. The on-going opioid crisis, and more recently COVID-19, has prompted reconsideration of these restrictions in order to sustain and improve treatment access, with renewed interest in telemedicine. We reviewed the evidence on use of telemedicine interventions and applicability to MOUD policy changes in the post-COVID-19 treatment landscape. Methods: Ovid MEDLINE and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews databases were searched from inception to April 2021 and reference lists were reviewed to identify additional studies. Studies were eligible if they examined telemedicine interventions and reported outcomes (e.g. treatment initiation, retention in care). Randomized trials and controlled observational studies were prioritized; other studies were included when stronger evidence was unavailable. One investigator abstracted key information and a second investigator verified data. We described the results qualitatively. Results: We identified nine studies: three controlled trials (two randomized), and six observational studies. Three studies evaluated patients treated with methadone and six studies with buprenorphine, including one study of pregnant women with OUD. All studies showed telemedicine approaches associated with similar outcomes (treatment retention, positive urine toxicology) compared to treatment as usual. Trials were limited by small samples sizes, lack of reporting harms, and most were conducted prior to the COVID-19 pandemic; observational studies were limited by failure to control for confounding. Conclusions: Limited evidence suggests that telemedicine may enhance access to MOUD with similar effectiveness compared with face-to-face treatment. Few studies have been published since COVID-19, and it is unclear the potential impact of these interventions on the existing racial/ethnic disparities in treatment. The COVID-19 pandemic and need for social distancing led to temporary policy changes for prescribing of MOUD that could inform additional research in this area to support comprehensive policy reforms.
Collaboration in a Time of Crisis: Adapting a Telementoring ECHO for Addiction Leaders during COVID-19
Authors: Englander Honora , Patten Alisa , Gregg Jessica
Published: September 2021

Substance use disorder (SUD) organizations are often siloed, with little integration across specialty addictions treatment, primary care and hospitals, harm reduction, policy, and advocacy. COVID-19 introduced a pressing need for collaboration and leadership, given a fast-changing, high-stakes environment; widespread anxiety; and lack of guidance. This research letter describes our approach to convening and supporting leaders across the US state of Oregon's SUD continuum during the pandemic. We rapidly developed and implemented a SUD COVID Response ECHO, adapting ECHO – a telementoring model – to convene leaders across 32 statewide agencies. Our experience allowed participants to lead their agencies to respond to real-time COVID-related needs, address existing barriers within SUD systems, and build relationships and community across statewide SUD leaders. This kind of collaboration – which helped bridge gaps among the diverse agencies, disciplines, and regions addressing SUDs in the state – was long overdue, and sows seeds for long-term advances in care for people with SUD.
A sustainable environmental study on clamshell powder, slag, bagasse ash, fly ash, and corn cob ash as alternative cementitious binder
Authors: Abdullah N O , Fakhruddin  , Bachtiar R D W , Rusni N K
Published: September 2021

Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials, consisting of water, aggregate and cement. The use of Portland cement in the manufacture of concrete has a negative impact to the environment. Therefore, one alternative solution that can be done is to replace some of the cement content in concrete by utilizing waste such as Bagasse Ash, Fly Ash, and Corncob Ash, as a substitute material. In addition, the use of sand and gravel as aggregates can also be partial by utilizing Clamshell Powder as a partial substitute for fine aggregate and Nickel Slag as a partial substitute for coarse aggregate. This study aims to create high quality Self Consolidating Concrete (SCC) that is environmentally friendly with a simple steam curing method. The study used a tested object in the form of a 150x300 mm cylinder with the use of 3% bagasse ash, 10% fly ash, and 2% corncob ash as a partial substitute for cement, 9% Clamshell Powder as a partial substitute for sand, and 40% nickel slag that passed the 3/8 sieve and be restrained the No. 4 sieve as a partial substitute for gravel. Steam curing of the specimen was carried out at 7080 °C for 4 hours and continued with curing at room temperature until the testing time. Testing of concrete compressive strength aged 1 day is expected to produce concrete with a minimum strength of 30 MPa.
Early study of slope strength modeling of block type x
Authors: Karapa E , Harianto T , Muhiddin A B , Irmawaty R
Published: September 2021

The development of slope strengthening forms requires innovative efforts. One way is to make a particular prototype or model by performing laboratory-scale testing. Slope failure with the use of the riprap method is still frequent; therefore, it needs to be supported by a block to maximize this riprap method. This research is a preliminary study in making the type x block model a form of slope reinforcement. This study has three types of material: clay as slope making material, crushed stone as riprap, and concrete for making type x blocks. This study aims to determine the index value of the soil properties used as slope-making material and to measure the value of the x-block type tensile strength test. The soil properties index shows that this soil is clay with a plasticity index of 10.51%, clay content 42.79%, Friction Angle (φ) of 23.24°, and Specific Gravity (Gs) of 2.728. Whereas the tensile strength test results of 4 type x blocks, namely type x brace 1, type x locked 1, type x brace two, and type x closed 2, are 0.293 MPa, 0.128 MPa, 0.205 MPa, and 0.128 MPa, respectively. The test results show that the Block x brace model’s tensile strength is greater than the locked Block X model.
Soil Characteristics in the Yetni Yahukimo River Area
Authors: Rochmawati R , Yunianta A , Irianto
Published: September 2021

Rivers have a significant role in life and economic activity in Papua. The river not only acts as a source of raw water or irrigation water but is also rich in biodiversity. Uncontrolled logging and methods of clearing land for various purposes, including agricultural use by burning, have resulted in land damage. The land investigation aims to determine the characteristics of the soil in the Yetti River, Yahukimo Regency, Papua, which is used as a basis for deciding infrastructure development. The methods used with geotechnical investigations (soil mechanics) are boring, sondir, and laboratory tests. From the laboratory test results, it is known that the soil in that location is dominated by clay soil with an average value of Gs 2.5, the water content of 27.7%, ɣm = 1.67 Mg / m3 and Sr = 74.01%.
The Effect of Water-Binder Ratio on The Unconfined Compression Strength of Lime Treated Expansive Soils
Authors: Pinasang D , Harianto T , Muhiddin A B , Amiruddin A A
Published: September 2021

This paper discusses unconfined compression strength in expansive soils using lime added as an ingredient. Soil samples were taken from one location in Manado City and tested in the laboratory to obtain soil properties values such as liquid limit, plastic limit, plasticity index, activity, and unconfined compression strength. For the water-binder ratio, three variations are used, namely 1.0, 1.2, and 1.5. From the test results obtained, expansive clay characteristics are very plastic with an enormous PI value. The addition of 200 kg of lime in 1 cubic meter of soil increased the unconfined compression strength by 95.4% to 510.3%. The highest unconfined compression test was for water binder ratio 1.2 for curing time of 14 days, 28 days, and 90 days.