bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical Investigation of Composite Structure in Comparison of RCC Structure
Authors: Laddha Vrunda R , Siddh Sharda P , Hiwas Prashant D
Published: November 2021

High rise structures becoming very common everywhere due to scarcity of land and increasing population. Though we have RCC structure system as high-rise buildings, but in RCC buildings due to bulky size of the components of the structure self-weight will be more due to the heavy density of materials. By observing the difficulties and challenges in the field of high-rise structures engineers are using efficient structural system that is Steel Concrete Composite Structure. Composite structure consists composite deck slab, composite beam and composite column. Composite Structure complies of Concrete which is good in compression and structural steel which good in tension and composition of these material makes structure better in ductility which comparatively on higher side than RCC structure. Here G+7 high rise structure is considered for analysis by ETABS software. This paper involves Analysis of Commercial building by Equivalent static method on Composite structure and RCC structure with same plan of building and same design data. The structure is in earthquake zone III and wind speed 44m/s. Analytical comparisons of both Composite and RCC frame based on structural parameters are made with help of graphs and tables. By comparing the results, we found that Steel-Concrete Composite Structures are more desirable than RCC structures.
Review on “Comparative study of flat slab structure and conventional slab structure”
Authors: Borkar Shital , Dabhekar Kuldeep , Khedikar Isha , Vaidya Nalini
Published: November 2021

For the drawing engineers, selection of the type of the structure for a specific purpose is very important, as multistory buildings are becoming necessary, as construction for living style with increases in requirement of space. The lack of space is forcing us to raise the height of structures possible to unbend maximum number of people. This paper aims to effort on seismic response of unappetizing slab RCC structure for the various height and plan, moreover aims to compare policies of unappetizing slab towers with old conventional 2-way slab system for different zones like zone II, zone III, zone IV, zone V in respect with maximum BM, story shear, base shear, and story drift, by the help of analysis soft wares like ETABS.
Performance Parameter Analysis of Magnesia Based Cement Products – A Review
Authors: Supriya J , Raut Ashwin
Published: November 2021

Magnesium oxide (MgO) based cements finds its way active in current researches where diverse range of applications and characteristics such as production process, reactivity and physical properties are essentially focus with the perception of individual expansion objectives. In general, relativity between distinctive MgO characteristics is examined in conjunction with the impact of MgO embodiment on the resources of cementitious materials is further considered. MgO is a key to develop the construction industry thereby mechanical strength and durability performance of cement paste, adhesive and concrete composites impose of MgO needs to be explored. Subsequently, this research paper explicitly defines the investigation of MgO cement composites in terms of compressive and flexural behavior, toughness, tensile and durability performances, flexibility, water susceptibility, porosity, carbonation, chloride ion diffusion, shrinkage and degree of hydration. In this regard, to application of magnesia-based cement products is influenced by various factors such as raw material, composition, performance. The review provides a detailed information of current research available related to magnesia-based cement products based on its properties.
Influence of Palm Oil Fuel Ash on Strength Properties of Concrete
Authors: Panchal Jai Narendra , Challagulla S.P. , Siva Kishore I.
Published: November 2021

Cement which is highly responsible for hydration enthalpy and also the cost of cement which makes it uneconomical. The only way to deal with this kind of challenge is by introducing different products to replace certain amount of cement. An environmental friendly waste product produced from agricultural industries known as POFA (Palm-oil-fuel-ash) can be replaced with certain percentage of cement replacement in concrete and still attain similar strength such as conventional concrete. This paper intention is to focus changes on mechanical, strength properties of M30 grade concrete by using (POFA) palm-oil-fuel-ash. It is very much efficient in reducing cement expenses and also enhances the strength when engineered in technical aspects. When this agro waste palm oil ash is added, very less quantity of co2 emission takes place with reduction in liberation of heat from concrete. With the incorporation of palm oil fuel ash in various incremental order of (0, 10, 20, 30, 40) % replacement by cement in concrete, certain amount of change in behavior in concrete strength parameters namely compression strength, split tensile strength, and flexure strength is noted. M30 grade of concrete is considered while performing tests and analyzing, it shows that 10% replacement of cement by palm oil ash (POFA) gave high strength compared to conventional concrete. All the results generated are compared against control mix which gave an impression of improvement in (mechanical, strength) parameters of concrete in a positive way which helps balance the environment and also achieve sustainability of the concrete.
An Overview of Eco-Friendly Alternatives as the Replacement of Cement in Concrete
Authors: Afrin Habiba , Huda Nazmul , Abbasi Rouzbeh
Published: November 2021

Due to the global urbanization, economic development, and increasing rate of the world’s population, the construction of new buildings and infrastructure is increasing. The manufacture of concrete has become an essential part of our life all over the world. Emitting 5-8% of carbon dioxide (CO2), the production of concrete becomes the main obstacle to reach global climate action under the Paris 2050 Agreement. Reuse of waste or recycled waste materials in concrete as an environmentally friendly construction material has become highlighted as a feature of achieving sustainability, because of its potential environmental and economic benefits. The focus of this paper is to assess the application of alternative eco- friendly substitutes of cement for an innovative, economically attractive, and environmentally friendly alternative, and the transition towards of circular economy by reducing the number of natural resources consumed. Based on the existing studies, waste material (fly ash, bottom ash, coal ash, tire, steel slag, construction and demolition waste, glass, ceramic) incorporated with concrete accepted performance in the environment and economic perspective by reducing energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, costs, and other indicators.
Performance of Eco Engineered Cementitious Composites Containing Supplementary Cementitious Materials as a Binder and Recycled Concrete Fines as Fine Aggregate
Authors: Md Zain M R , Oh C L , Wee L S
Published: November 2021

Engineered cementitious composites (ECC) mixtures demand a large cement content, which is detrimental to their sustainable development because mass cement production is hazardous to the environment and human health. Thus, this paper investigates the mechanical performance of eco engineered cementitious composites (ECC) under axial compressive loading and direct tensile strength tests. The eco ECC used in this investigation was comprised of cement, superplasticizer, fly ash (FA) or ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), polypropylene (PP) fibre, water and recycled concrete fines (RCF). Two (2) eco ECC mixture series were designed and prepared. GGBS70 (70 percent GGBS + 30 percent cement), FA70 (70 percent Fly Ash + 30 percent cement), GGBS80 (80 percent GGBS + 20 percent cement), and FA80 (80 percent Fly Ash + 20 percent cement) are the four Cement-GGBS and Cement-Fly Ash combinations examined in this study. Also every combination had two different RCF percentages, R0.2 (0.2 percent RCF) and R0.4 (0.4 percent RCF). The main objective of this research is to determine the optimum mix design for eco ECC that contains supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) such as GGBS or FA. Additionally, recycled concrete fines (RCF) were used as a substitute for sand. The influence of different cement replacement materials and RCF content on compressive and tensile strength was experimentally investigated. The inclusion of GGBS as a partial replacement of cement in the eco concrete mixture results in greater compressive strength than Fly Ash (FA). The test results revealed that increasing the RCF content in the ECC mixture resulted in higher compressive and tensile strength. When the sand to binder ratio was adjusted between 0.2 and 0.4, the compressive and tensile strength of the ECC mixture increased.
Strength of Modified Foam Concrete-Filled Hollow Section Using Fly Ash as Sand Replacement
Authors: Murad Nurul ‘Adilah Anati , Rahman Norashidah Abd , Firdaus Ahmad Hazim Ahmad , Khairuddin Siti Amirah Azra
Published: November 2021

Hollow sections for columns, beams and trusses have been used in the steel construction industry for a decade. Concrete-filled hollow section (CFHS) has been widely used due to its aesthetic efficiency and to improve the load-carrying capacity. However, the use of normal concrete as infilled in steel hollow section has increased the dead load of structures. A modified foam concrete filled hollow section using fly ash as sand replacement (FCFHS-FA) is proposed to reduce the structure’s dead weight. This study aims to determine the strength performance of FCFHS-FA structure by using two types of steel hollow section thickness and compare the strength between FCFHS and FCFHS-FA. Steel, preformed foam, and fly ash were used to increase the strength. Nine specimens were prepared and a compression test was conducted. The strength index was calculated to compare the strength of FCFHS with FCFHS-FA. Result shows that FCFHS-FA has a similar strength index compared with FCFHS.
Talent as a Spearhead of Construction 4.0 Transformation: Analysis of Their Challenges
Authors: Lau Santi Edra Nisa , Aminudin Eeydzah , Zakaria Rozana , Saar Chai Chang , Roslan Ahmad Farhan , Hamid Zuhairi Abd , Zain Maria Zura Mohd , Maaz Zafira Nadia , Ahamad Abdul Hadi
Published: November 2021

Global industries are investing in technology to accelerate digital transformation. Construction is also most likely to be digitalised based on current technology trends. However, technology adoption is not the only ingredient to successfully transform the construction industry towards the fourth industrial revolution (4IR). This transformation requires additional changes for the employees. It is expected to significantly impact the talent landscape, ranging from job categories to skill sets. While this transformation holds excellent benefits, it also poses many challenges. This paper discusses the challenges that individuals, construction companies and governments face from a talent perspective. The data is obtained from literature review results and content analysis through focus group discussion. A focus group discussion was conducted among experts with high knowledge in both the construction industry and 4IR. Information obtained from the discussion was used to identify and categorise the determining challenges. The study revealed nine (9) major talent challenges that the construction industry is currently facing, such as inadequate high skilled talent, lack of education and training to widen talent readiness, talent job security, lack of awareness or clarity of 4IR, dependency on outside talent, employer’s readiness, negative attitude of future talent towards changes, the potential of emigration of highly trained or qualified talent, and strong resistance towards new changes and technologies. 4IR can be implemented effectively in the Malaysian construction industry if key challenges that hold the talent are overcome. In conclusion, an active role from quadruple helix collaboration positively assist the transformation.
Soil Stabilization using Polypropylene Clamshell Food Containers
Authors: Salwi N A C M , Hamzah N
Published: November 2021

Soil stabilization is the method of improving the physical properties of soil, such as shear strength and bearing capacity of the soil, by using controlled compaction or the addition of admixtures to produce an improved soil material that has all the desired engineering properties. The new technique of soil stabilization uses plastic waste as an alternative material is of outmost crucial since plastic wastes are non-biodegradable and remain intact after being buried in soil for many years. The present study is focused on investigating the effectiveness of utilizing polypropylene clamshell food containers as soil stabilizers. The physical properties of the untreated clayey soil are determined by conducting moisture content, specific gravity, particle size distribution, and the Atterberg limit test. Also, the Standard Proctor compaction test, as well as the unconfined compressive strength test, are carried out to determine the compaction and strength parameters of the soil sample before and after reinforcing with different percentages of polypropylene clamshell food container strips such as 0.4%, 0.8%, and 1.2%. Findings from this study indicate that the addition of polypropylene clamshell food container strips in the clayey soil is capable of becoming a soil stabilizer agent as the optimum compressive strength of the soil was achieved with replacement of 0.8% of plastic strips, along with increasing the Optimum Moisture Content (OMC) while decreasing the Maximum Dry Density (MDD). Successful implementation of polypropylene plastic in soil stabilization can help minimize the volume of plastic waste in the environment, which then leads to developing a sustainable future by utilizing recyclable material as alternative sources in the geotechnical field.
Systemic consequences of disorder in magnetically self-organized topological MnBi2Te4/(Bi2Te3)
n
superlattices
Authors: Sitnicka Joanna , Park Kyungwha , Skupiński Paweł , Grasza Krzysztof , Reszka Anna , Sobczak Kamil , Borysiuk Jolanta , Adamus Zbigniew , Tokarczyk Mateusz , Avdonin Andrei , Fedorchenko Irina , Abaloszewa Irina , Turczyniak-Surdacka Sylwia , Olszowska Natalia , Kołodziej Jacek , Kowalski Bogdan J , Deng Haiming , Konczykowski Marcin , Krusin-Elbaum Lia , Wołoś Agnieszka
Published: November 2021

MnBi2Te4/(Bi2Te3)
n
materials system has recently generated strong interest as a natural platform for the realization of the quantum anomalous Hall (QAH) state. The system is magnetically much better ordered than substitutionally doped materials, however, the detrimental effects of certain disorders are becoming increasingly acknowledged. Here, from compiling structural, compositional, and magnetic metrics of disorder in ferromagnetic (FM) MnBi2Te4/(Bi2Te3)
n
it is found that migration of Mn between MnBi2Te4 septuple layers (SLs) and otherwise non-magnetic Bi2Te3 quintuple layers (QLs) has systemic consequences—it induces FM coupling of Mn-depleted SLs with Mn-doped QLs, seen in ferromagnetic resonance as an acoustic and optical resonance mode of the two coupled spin subsystems. Even for a large SL separation (n

≳

4 QLs) the structure cannot be considered as a stack of uncoupled two-dimensional layers. Angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy and density functional theory studies show that Mn disorder within an SL causes delocalization of electron wave functions and a change of the surface band structure as compared to the ideal MnBi2Te4/(Bi2Te3)
n
. These findings highlight the critical importance of inter- and intra-SL disorder towards achieving new QAH platforms as well as exploring novel axion physics in intrinsic topological magnets.
Development of an irradiation method for superficial tumours using a hydrogel bolus in an accelerator-based BNCT
Authors: Sasaki Akinori , Tanaka Hiroki , Takata Takushi , Tamari Yuki , Watanabe Tsubasa , Hu Naonori , Kawabata Shinji , Kudo Yoshihiro , Mitsumoto Toshinori , Sakurai Yoshinori , Suzuki Minoru
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study is the development of an irradiation method for the treatment of superficial tumours using a hydrogel bolus to produce thermal neutrons in accelerator-based Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT).

To evaluate the neutron moderating ability of a hydrogel bolus, a water phantom with a hydrogel bolus was irradiated with an epithermal neutron beam from a cyclotron-based epithermal neutron source. Phantom simulating irradiation to the plantar position was manufactured using three-dimensional printing technology to perform an irradiation test of a hydrogel bolus. Thermal neutron fluxes on the surface of a phantom were evaluated and the results were compared with the Monte Carlo-based Simulation Environment for Radiotherapy Applications (SERA) treatment planning software. It was confirmed that a hydrogel bolus had the same neutron moderating ability as water, and the calculation results from SERA aligned with the measured values within approximately 5%. Furthermore, it was confirmed that the thermal neutron flux decreased at the edge of the irradiation field. It was possible to uniformly irradiate thermal neutrons by increasing the bolus thickness at the edge of the irradiation field, thereby successfully determining uniform dose distribution. An irradiation method for superficial tumours using a hydrogel bolus in the accelerator-based BNCT was established.
1d3v PIC/MCC simulation of dielectric barrier discharge dynamics in hydrogen sulfide
Authors: ZHANG Jing , YE Shurong , LIU Tianxu , SUN Anbang
Published: November 2021

In this study, we computationally examined the dynamics of dielectric barrier discharge in hydrogen sulfide. The simulations were performed with a 1d3v particle-in-cell/Monte Carlo collision model in which a parallel-plate electrode geometry with dielectrics was used. Particle recombination process is represented in the model. The discharge mode was found to be initially Townsend discharge developing from the cathode to the anode, and at the peak of the current, a more stable glow discharge develops from the anode to the cathode. A higher applied voltage results in sufficient secondary electrons to trigger a second current peak, and then the current amplitude increases. As the frequency is increased, it leads to the advance of the phase and an increase in the amplitude of the current peak. A higher dielectric permittivity also makes the discharge occur earlier and more violently in the gap.
Novel ternary metal oxide nanoparticles (La2Cu0.8Zn0.2O4) as a potential photocatalyst for visible light photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue and desulfurization of dibenzothiophene
Authors: Barmala Molood , Behnood Mohammad
Published: November 2021

In this work we present the preparation of novel ternary metal oxide nanoparticles, La2Cu0.8Zn0.2O4 (LCZO), using a simple co-precipitation method. The crystalline structure, morphology and composition of the prepared LCZO nanoparticles were characterized by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray analysis. The diffuse reflectance spectrum investigation showed that LCZO nanoparticles have considerable light absorption in the visible light region. Also, the LCZO nanoparticles possess a band-gap energy of 2.82 eV. To investigate the visible light photocatalytic potential of the prepared LCZO nanoparticles, two photocatalytic reactions were conducted, namely degradation of methylene blue (MB) solution and desulfurization of dibenzothiophene (DBT). In the presence of a 3:1 molar ratio of H2O2/DBT, a high photocatalytic desulfurization rate of DBT (93.7%) was obtained over 0.2 g of LCZO photocatalyst. In addition, the photocatalytic degradation rate of MB solution was 91.4%. The mechanisms of both photocatalytic reactions were studied using different radical scavenging agents, which showed that hydroxyl radicals are responsible for highly efficient desulfurization and degradation reactions. Moreover, reusability experiments reveal that the prepared LCZO photocatalyst has great stability and recyclability for both desulfurization of DBT and degradation of MB after six reaction cycles.
Chronic predation risk affects prey escape abilities through behavioral and physiological changes
Authors: Jermacz Łukasz , Kletkiewicz Hanna , Poznańska-Kakareko Małgorzata , Klimiuk Maciej , Kobak Jarosław
Published: November 2021

One of the options to reduce predation risk is reallocation of energy into locomotion system. The higher aerobic capacity, the more energy can be partitioned into an escape. Thus, increase in aerobic capacity can increase prey escape abilities. We investigated prey (freshwater crustaceans: Dikerogammarus villosus and Gammarus jazdzewskii) ability to improve their locomotor performance through an increase in aerobic capacity under chronic predation risk. We forced gammarids (pre-exposed to the predation cue or control) to long-distance swimming in the presence or absence of predation cues to obtain: control (pre-exposure and test in control conditions), acute (pre-exposure to control conditions, test in the presence of the predation cue) and chronic (pre-exposure and test in the presence of the cue) risk treatments. After this forced swimming effort, we measured various swimming parameters, glycogen content, and lactate concentration of the experimental amphipods. Exposure to predation cues made G. jazdzewskii reduce its speed after prolonged forced swimming in the presence of predation cues, whereas D. villosus never changed its swimming performance due to predation risk. In both species, post-effort lactate concentration was higher under the acute predation risk than in risk-free conditions. However, only D. villosus demonstrated lower lactate concentration when exposed to chronic vs. acute predation risk. Moreover, pre-exposure of both species to predation cues caused reduction in glycogen content. We showed that under chronic predation risk some prey species can modify their physiology to increase aerobic capacity and sustain high efficiency of escape performance. However, this phenomenon is species-specific and costly.
Optimal distributions of central-place foragers: honey bee foraging in a mass flowering crop
Authors: Robinson Samuel V J , Hoover Shelley E , Pernal Stephen F , Cartar Ralph V
Published: November 2021

The ideal-free distribution and central-place foraging are important ecological models that can explain the distribution of foraging organisms in their environment. However, this model ignores distance-based foraging costs from a central place (hive, nest), whereas central-place foraging ignores competition. Different foraging currencies and cooperation between foragers also create different optimal distributions of foragers, but are limited to a simple two-patch model. We present a hybrid model of the ideal-free distribution that uses realistic competitive effects although accounting for distance-based foraging, and test it using honey bees (Apis mellifera L.) foraging in canola fields (Brassica napus L.). Our simulations show that foragers maximizing efficiency (energy profits ÷losses) prioritize distance to their aggregation more than those maximizing net-rate (energy profits ÷time), and that social foragers move to more distant patches to maximize group benefits, meaning that social foragers do not approach an ideal-free distribution. Simulated efficiency-maximizers had a hump-shaped relationship of trip times with distance, spending shorter amounts of time in both nearby and far-away patches. Canola fields were far more attractive to simulated foragers than semi-natural areas, suggesting limited foraging on semi-natural lands during the bloom period of canola. Finally, we found that the observed distribution of honey bees in canola fields most closely resembled the optimal distribution of solitary efficiency-maximizers. Our model has both theoretical and practical uses, as it allows us to model central-place forager distributions in complex landscapes as well as providing information on appropriate hive stocking rates for agricultural pollination.
SARS-CoV-2 Interactome 3D: A Web interface for 3D visualization and analysis of SARS-CoV-2–human mimicry and interactions
Authors: Ovek Damla , Taweel Ameer , Abali Zeynep , Tezsezen Ece , Koroglu Yunus Emre , Tsai Chung-Jung , Nussinov Ruth , Keskin Ozlem , Gursoy Attila
Published: November 2021

We present a web-based server for navigating and visualizing possible interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and human host proteins. The interactions are obtained from HMI_Pred which relies on the rationale that virus proteins mimic host proteins. The structural alignment of the viral protein with one side of the human protein–protein interface determines the mimicry. The mimicked human proteins and predicted interactions, and the binding sites are presented. The user can choose one of the 18 SARS-CoV-2 protein structures and visualize the potential 3D complexes it forms with human proteins. The mimicked interface is also provided. The user can superimpose two interacting human proteins in order to see whether they bind to the same site or different sites on the viral protein. The server also tabulates all available mimicked interactions together with their match scores and number of aligned residues. This is the first server listing and cataloging all interactions between SARS-CoV-2 and human protein structures, enabled by our innovative interface mimicry strategy.

Availability and implementation

The server is available at https://interactome.ku.edu.tr/sars/.
Remote service delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic: Questioning the impact of technology on relationship-based social work practice
Authors: Pascoe Katheryn Margaret
Published: November 2021

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic caused widespread lockdowns, social distancing measures, restrictions to businesses and the closure of buildings. During this time social workers were required to adjust to remote practice, adopting technological adjuncts for continued engagement with service users. This article reports on qualitative interviews with fourteen front line social workers practicing during the pandemic in Northern Ireland, exploring the impact of remote delivery and technology on relationship-based practice. Findings highlight negative outcomes on relationship building and social worker self-care, alongside concerns that efficiency would be prioritised over future face-to-face contact with service users. The adoption of alternative methods of communication through technology has disrupted the core principles of relationship-based practice and has meant that, without proper planning or staff training, alternative models of delivery, which may have enabled some form of continuation and centralisation of relationship-based practice are under explored and require further investigation.
TBX1functions as a putative oncogene of breast cancer through promoting cell cycle progression
Authors: Huang Shuya , Shu Xiang , Ping Jie , Wu Jie , Wang Jifeng , Shidal Chris , Guo Xingyi , Bauer Joshua A , Long Jirong , Shu Xiao-Ou , Zheng Wei , Cai Qiuyin
Published: November 2021

We have previously identified a genetic variant, rs34331122 in the 22q11.21 locus, as being associated with breast cancer risk in a genome-wide association study. This novel variant is located in the intronic region of the T-box transcription factor 1 (TBX1) gene. Cis-expression quantitative trait loci analysis showed that expression of TBX1 was regulated by the rs34331122 variant. In the current study, we investigated biological functions and potential molecular mechanisms of TBX1 in breast cancer. We found that TBX1 expression was significantly higher in breast cancer tumor tissues than adjacent normal breast tissues and increased with tumor stage (P < 0.05). We further knocked-down TBX1 gene expression in three breast cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-231, MCF-7 and T47D, using small interfering RNAs and examined consequential changes on cell oncogenicity and gene expression. TBX1 knock-down significantly inhibited breast cancer cell proliferation, colony formation, migration and invasion. RNA sequencing and flow cytometry analysis revealed that TBX1 knock-down in breast cancer cells induced cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase through disrupting expression of genes involved in the cell cycle pathway. Furthermore, survival analysis using the online Kaplan–Meier Plotter suggested that higher TBX1 expression was associated with worse outcomes in breast cancer patients, especially for estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, with HRs (95% CIs) for overall survival (OS) and distant metastasis free survival (DMFS) of 1.5 (1.05–2.15) and 1.55 (1.10–2.18), respectively. In conclusion, our results suggest that the TBX1 gene may act as a putative oncogene of breast cancer through regulating expressions of cell cycle-related genes.
Transcription phenotype of circulating tumor cells in non-metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Shliakhtunou Yauheni A , Siamionau Valery M , Pobyarzhin Vyacheslau V
Published: November 2021

The presented research is relevant, as breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the female population worldwide, with the exception of skin cancer. The aim of this article is to study the transcription phenotype of circulating tumor cells in non-metastatic breast cancer. The transcriptional phenotype of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) was studied using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Three-year OS was 79.2, and 90.8 without the expression with p Log-Rank = 0.04. Independent prognostic factors for the recurrence of disease include the presence of CTCs expressing BIRC5 genes and ABC transporter genes in the peripheral blood before the start of special treatment for resectable breast cancer, as well as the preservation of CTCs per se after completion of special anticancer therapy. In patients with breast cancer stage I–IIIC, circulating tumor cells before special treatment have significant heterogeneity, manifested by a different transcriptional phenotype, including both actively growing and stem tumor cells, and cells at the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition.
Endogenous sources of interbrain synchrony in duetting pianists
Authors: Gugnowska Katarzyna , Novembre Giacomo , Kohler Natalie , Villringer Arno , Keller Peter E , Sammler Daniela
Published: November 2021

When people interact with each other, their brains synchronize. However, it remains unclear whether interbrain synchrony (IBS) is functionally relevant for social interaction or stems from exposure of individual brains to identical sensorimotor information. To disentangle these views, the current dual-EEG study investigated amplitude-based IBS in pianists jointly performing duets containing a silent pause followed by a tempo change. First, we manipulated the similarity of the anticipated tempo change and measured IBS during the pause, hence, capturing the alignment of purely endogenous, temporal plans without sound or movement. Notably, right posterior gamma IBS was higher when partners planned similar tempi, it predicted whether partners’ tempi matched after the pause, and it was modulated only in real, not in surrogate pairs. Second, we manipulated the familiarity with the partner’s actions and measured IBS during joint performance with sound. Although sensorimotor information was similar across conditions, gamma IBS was higher when partners were unfamiliar with each other’s part and had to attend more closely to the sound of the performance. These combined findings demonstrate that IBS is not merely an epiphenomenon of shared sensorimotor information but can also hinge on endogenous, cognitive processes crucial for behavioral synchrony and successful social interaction.
Similar neural networks respond to coherence during comprehension and production of discourse
Authors: Morales Matías , Patel Tanvi , Tamm Andres , Pickering Martin J , Hoffman Paul
Published: November 2021

When comprehending discourse, listeners engage default-mode regions associated with integrative semantic processing to construct a situation model of its content. We investigated how similar networks are engaged when we produce, as well as comprehend, discourse. During functional magnetic resonance imaging, participants spoke about a series of specific topics and listened to discourse on other topics. We tested how activation was predicted by natural fluctuations in the global coherence of the discourse, that is, the degree to which utterances conformed to the expected topic. The neural correlates of coherence were similar across speaking and listening, particularly in default-mode regions. This network showed greater activation when less coherent speech was heard or produced, reflecting updating of mental representations when discourse did not conform to the expected topic. In contrast, regions that exert control over semantic activation showed task-specific effects, correlating negatively with coherence during listening but not during production. Participants who showed greater activation in left inferior prefrontal cortex also produced more coherent discourse, suggesting a specific role for this region in goal-directed regulation of speech content. Results suggest strong correspondence of discourse representations during speaking and listening. However, they indicate that the semantic control network plays different roles in comprehension and production.
Treatment and Outcome in Children With Tuberculous Meningitis: A Multicenter Pediatric Tuberculosis Network European Trials Group Study
Authors: Thee Stephanie , Basu Roy Robindra , Blázquez-Gamero Daniel , Falcón-Neyra Lola , Neth Olaf , Noguera-Julian Antoni , Lillo Cristina , Galli Luisa , Venturini Elisabetta , Buonsenso Danilo , Götzinger Florian , Martinez-Alier Nuria , Velizarova Svetlana , Brinkmann Folke , Welch Steven B , Tsolia Maria , Santiago-Garcia Begoña , Schilling Ralph , Tebruegge Marc , Krüger Renate ,   ptbnet TB Meningitis Study Group, Bogyi Matthias , Montagnani Carlotta , Lancella Laura , Salo Eeva , Syngelou Angeliki , Krivec Uros , Nalda Andrea Martín , Soriano-Arandes Antoni , Rivero Irene , Nieto Marta Benavides , Bueno Mercedes , del Rosal Teresa , Mayol Luis , Guarch Borja , Couceiro Jose Antonio , Laleona Carmelo Guerrero , Bennet Rutger , Kötz Karsten , Raffa Brittany , Shackley Fiona
Published: November 2021

Background

Currently, data on treatment, outcome, and prognostic factors in children with tuberculous meningitis (TBM) in Europe are limited. To date, most existing data on TBM originate from adult studies, or studies conducted in low-resource settings.

Methods

We designed a multicenter, retrospective study involving 27 pediatric healthcare institutions in 9 European countries via an established pediatric TB research network, before and after the 2014 revision of World Health Organization (WHO) dosing recommendations.

Results

Of 118 children, 39 (33.1%) had TBM grade 1, 68 (57.6%) grade 2, and 11 (9.3%) grade 3. Fifty-eight (49.1%) children received a standard 4-drug treatment regimen; other commonly used drugs included streptomycin, prothionamide, and amikacin. Almost half of the patients (48.3%; 56/116) were admitted to intensive care unit, with a median stay of 10 (interquartile range [IQR] 4.5–21.0) days. Of 104 children with complete outcome data, 9.6% (10/104) died, and only 47.1% (49/104) recovered fully. Main long-term sequelae included spasticity of 1 or more limbs and developmental delay both in 19.2% (20/104), and seizure disorder in 17.3% (18/104). Multivariate regression analyses identified microbiological confirmation of TBM, the need for neurosurgical intervention, and mechanical ventilation as risk factors for unfavorable outcome.

Conclusions

There was considerable heterogeneity in the use of TB drugs in this cohort. Despite few children presenting with advanced disease and the study being conducted in a high-resource setting, morbidity and mortality were high. Several risk factors for poor outcome were identified, which may aid prognostic predictions in children with TBM in the future.
Lack of Convincing Evidence That Borrelia burgdorferi Infection Causes Either Alzheimer Disease or Lewy Body Dementia
Authors: Wormser Gary P , Marques Adriana , Pavia Charles S , Schwartz Ira , Feder Henry M , Pachner Andrew R
Published: November 2021

The role that microorganisms might have in the development of Alzheimer disease is a topic of considerable interest. In this article, we discuss whether there is credible evidence that Lyme disease is a cause of Alzheimer disease and critically review a recent publication that claimed that Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto infection, the primary cause of Lyme disease in the United States, may cause Lewy body dementia. We conclude that no convincing evidence exists that Lyme disease is a cause of either Alzheimer disease or Lewy body dementia.
Complete Genome Sequencing of a NovelGloeobacterSpecies from a Waterfall Cave in Mexico
Authors: Saw Jimmy H , Cardona Tanai , Montejano Gustavo
Published: November 2021

Only two complete genomes of the cyanobacterial genus Gloeobacter from two very different regions of the world currently exist. Here, we present the complete genome sequence of a third member of the genus isolated from a waterfall cave in Mexico. Analysis of the average nucleotide identities (ANIs) between published Gloeobacter genomes revealed that the complete genome of this new member is only 92.7% similar to Gloeobacter violaceus and therefore we determined it to be a new species. We propose to name this new species Gloeobacter morelensis after the location in Mexico where it was isolated. The complete genome consists of one circular chromosome (4,921,229 bp), one linear plasmid (172,328 bp), and one circular plasmid (8,839 bp). Its genome is the largest of all completely sequenced genomes of Gloeobacter species. Pangenomic comparisons revealed that G. morelensis encodes 759 genes not shared with other Gloeobacter species. Despite being more closely related to G. violaceus, it features an extremely divergent psbA gene encoding an atypical D1 core subunit of Photosystem II previously only found within the genome of Gloeobacter kilaueensis. In addition, we detected evidence of concerted evolution of psbA genes encoding identical D1 in all three Gloeobacter genomes, a characteristic that seems widespread in cyanobacteria and may therefore be traced back to their last common ancestor.
On the L
p Brunn-Minkowski theory and the L
p Minkowski problem for C-coconvex sets
Authors: Yang Jin , Ye Deping , Zhu Baocheng
Published: November 2021

Let $C$ be a pointed closed convex cone in ${{\mathbb {R}}^n}$ with vertex at the origin $o$ and having nonempty interior. The set $A\subset C$ is $C$-coconvex if the volume of $A$ is finite and $A^{\bullet }=C\setminus A$ is a closed convex set. For $0<p<1$, the $p$-co-sum of $C$-coconvex sets is introduced and the corresponding $L_p$ Brunn–Minkowski inequality for $C$-coconvex sets is established. We also define the $L_p$ surface area measures, for $0\neq p\in {\mathbb {R}}$, of certain $C$-coconvex sets, which are critical in deriving a variational formula of the volume of the Wulff shape associated with a family of functions obtained from the $p$-co-sum. This motivates the $L_p$ Minkowski problem aiming to characterize the $L_p$ surface area measures of $C$-coconvex sets. The existence of solutions to the $L_p$ Minkowski problem for all $0\neq p\in {\mathbb {R}}$ is established. The $L_p$ Minkowski inequality for $0<p<1$ is proved and is used to obtain the uniqueness of the solutions to the $L_p$ Minkowski problem for $0<p<1$. For $p=0$, we introduce $(1-\tau )\diamond A_1\oplus _0\tau \diamond A_2$, the log-co-sum of two $C$-coconvex sets $A_{1}$ and $A_{2}$ with respect to $\tau \in (0, 1)$, and prove the log-Brunn–Minkowski inequality of $C$-coconvex sets. The log-Minkowski inequality is also obtained and is applied to prove the uniqueness of the solutions to the log-Minkowski problem that characterizes the cone-volume measures of $C$-coconvex sets. Our result solves an open problem raised by Schneider [41].
Elucidation of host diversity of the VanD-carrying genomic islands in enterococci and anaerobes
Authors: Hashimoto Yusuke , Hisatsune Junzo , Suzuki Masato , Kurushima Jun , Nomura Takahiro , Hirakawa Hidetada , Kojima Naoko , Ono Yuichi , Hasegawa Yutaka , Tanimoto Koichi , Sugai Motoyuki , Tomita Haruyoshi
Published: November 2021

Background

VanD is a rare type of vancomycin resistance worldwide. However, the host diversity of the vanD gene cluster and the structural similarity of their genomic islands are not well understood.

Methods

Three VanD-type Enterococcus faecium strains (AA620, AA622 and AA624) isolated from a Japanese patient who underwent vancomycin treatment in 2017 were analysed. This study utilized WGS analysis to characterize the three VanD-type E. faecium strains and describes the diversity of hosts possessing VanD-carrying genomic islands.

Results

The three isolates exhibited variable MICs of vancomycin. In the relatively vancomycin-resistant AA620, mutations were identified in vanSD and ddl. The strains AA622 and AA624 had intact ddl and harboured two vanD gene clusters. qRT-PCR results revealed the ddl mutation to be a factor affecting the high vancomycin resistance range of AA620. WGS data showed the 155 kb and 185 kb genomic islands harbouring the vanD gene cluster inserted in the coding region of the lysS gene, located in the chromosome in AA620 and AA622/624, respectively. Comparing the VanD-carrying genomic islands to available sequences of other enterococci and enteric anaerobes revealed how the genomic islands of these organisms isolated worldwide shared similar core genes and backbones. These anaerobes belonged to various genera within the order Eubacteriales. The phylogenetic cluster of the genomic island core genome alignment did not correlate with the host-species lineage, indicating horizontal gene transfer in the gut microbiota.

Conclusions

By horizontal gene transfer, various bacteria forming the gut microbiota maintain VanD-carrying genomic islands.
Deciphering the role of plant plasma membrane lipids in response to invasion patterns: how could biology and biophysics help?
Authors: Cordelier Sylvain , Crouzet Jérôme , Gilliard Guillaume , Dorey Stéphan , Deleu Magali , Dhondt-Cordelier Sandrine
Published: November 2021

Plants have to constantly face pathogen attacks. To cope with diseases, they have to detect the invading pathogen as early as possible via the sensing of conserved motifs called invasion patterns. The first step of perception occurs at the plasma membrane. While many invasion patterns are perceived by specific proteinaceous immune receptors, several studies have highlighted the influence of the lipid composition and dynamics of the plasma membrane in the sensing of invasion patterns. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on how some microbial invasion patterns could interact with the lipids of the plasma membrane, leading to a plant immune response. Depending on the invasion pattern, different mechanisms are involved. This review outlines the potential of combining biological with biophysical approaches to decipher how plasma membrane lipids are involved in the perception of microbial invasion patterns.
Endomembrane mediated-trafficking of seed storage proteins: from Arabidopsis to cereal crops
Authors: Zheng Ping , Zheng Chunyan , Otegui Marisa S , Li Faqiang
Published: November 2021

Seed storage proteins (SSPs) are of great importance in plant science and agriculture, particularly in cereal crops, due to their nutritional value and their impact on food properties. During seed maturation, massive amounts of SSPs are synthesized and deposited either within protein bodies derived from the endoplasmic reticulum, or into specialized protein storage vacuoles (PSVs). The processing and trafficking of SSPs vary among plant species, tissues, and even developmental stages, as well as being influenced by SSP composition. The different trafficking routes, which affect the amount of SSPs that seeds accumulate and their composition and modifications, rely on a highly dynamic and functionally specialized endomembrane system. Although the general steps in SSP trafficking have been studied in various plants, including cereals, the detailed underlying molecular and regulatory mechanisms are still elusive. In this review, we discuss the main endomembrane routes involved in SSP trafficking to the PSV in Arabidopsis and other eudicots, and compare and contrast the SSP trafficking pathways in major cereal crops, particularly in rice and maize. In addition, we explore the challenges and strategies for analyzing the endomembrane system in cereal crops.
The role of post-transcriptional modulators of metalloproteins in response to metal deficiencies
Authors: Perea-García Ana , Puig Sergi , Peñarrubia Lola
Published: November 2021

Copper and iron proteins have a wide range of functions in living organisms. Metal assembly into metalloproteins is a complex process, where mismetalation is detrimental and energy consuming to cells. Under metal deficiency, metal distribution is expected to reach a metalation ranking, prioritizing essential versus dispensable metalloproteins, while avoiding interference with other metals and protecting metal-sensitive processes. In this review, we propose that post-transcriptional modulators of metalloprotein mRNA (ModMeR) are good candidates in metal prioritization under metal-limited conditions. ModMeR target high quota or redundant metalloproteins and, by adjusting their synthesis, ModMeR act as internal metal distribution valves. Inappropriate metalation of ModMeR targets could compete with metal delivery to essential metalloproteins and interfere with metal-sensitive processes, such as chloroplastic photosynthesis and mitochondrial respiration. Regulation of ModMeR targets could increase or decrease the metal flow through interconnected pathways in cellular metal distribution, helping to achieve adequate differential metal requirements. Here, we describe and compare ModMeR that function in response to copper and iron deficiencies. Specifically, we describe copper-miRNAs from Arabidopsis thaliana and diverse iron ModMeR from yeast, mammals, and bacteria under copper and iron deficiencies, as well as the influence of oxidative stress. Putative functions derived from their role as ModMeR are also discussed.
Probing cool giants in unresolved galaxies using fluctuation eigenspectra: A demonstration using high-resolution MUSE observations of NGC 5128
Authors: Smith Russell J
Published: November 2021

I describe and demonstrate a new approach to using spectroscopic data to exploit Poisson sampling fluctuations in unresolved stellar populations. The method is introduced using spectra predicted for independent samples of stars from a 10 Gyr population using a simple stochastic spectral synthesis model. A principal components analysis shows that >99 per cent of the spectral variation in the red-optical can be attributed to just three ‘fluctuation eigenspectra’, which can be related to the number of giant stars present in each sample, and their distribution along the isochrone. The first eigenspectrum effectively encodes the spectrum of the coolest giant branch stars, and is equivalent to the ratio between high- and low-flux pixels discussed in previous literature. The second and third eigenspectra carry higher-order information from which the giant-star spectral sequence can in principle be reconstructed. I demonstrate the method in practice using observations of part of NGC 5128, obtained with the MUSE narrow-field adaptive optics mode. The expected first eigenspectrum is easily recovered from the data, and closely matches the model results except for small differences around the Ca ii triplet. The second eigenspectrum is below the noise level of the present observations. A future application of the method would be to the cores of giant ellipticals to probe the spectra of cool giant stars at high metallicity and with element abundance patterns not accessible in the Milky Way.