bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Embedded Computational Heart Model for External Ventricular Assist Device Investigations
Authors: Kummer Thomas , Rossi Simone , Vandenberghe Stijn , Demertzis Stefanos , Jenny Patrick
Published: March 2022

Purpose

External cardiac assist devices are based on a promising and simple concept for treating heart failure, but they are surprisingly difficult to design. Thus, a structured approach combining experiments with computer-based optimization is essential. The latter provides the motivation for the work presented in this paper.

Methods

We present a computational modeling framework for realistic representation of the heart’s tissue structure, electrophysiology and actuation. The passive heart tissue is described by a nonlinear anisotropic material law, considering fiber and sheetlet directions. For muscle contraction, an orthotropic active-strain model is employed, initiated by a periodically propagating electrical potential. The model allows for boundary conditions at the epicardium accounting for external assist devices, and it is coupled to a circulation network providing appropriate pressure boundary conditions inside the ventricles.

Results

Simulated results from an unsupported healthy and a pathological heart model are presented and reproduce accurate deformations compared to phenomenological measurements. Moreover, cardiac output and ventricular pressure signals are in good agreement too. By investigating the impact of applying an exemplary external actuation to the pathological heart model, it shows that cardiac patches can restore a healthy blood flow.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that the devised computational modeling framework is capable of predicting characteristic trends (e.g. apex shortening, wall thickening and apex twisting) of a healthy heart, and that it can be used to study pathological hearts and external activation thereof.
Through the Newsfeed Glass: Rethinking Filter Bubbles and Echo Chambers
Authors: Figà Talamanca Giacomo , Arfini Selene
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we will re-elaborate the notions of filter bubble and of echo chamber by considering human cognitive systems’ limitations in everyday interactions and how they experience digital technologies. Researchers who applied the concept of filter bubble and echo chambers in empirical investigations see them as forms of algorithmically-caused systems that seclude the users of digital technologies from viewpoints and opinions that oppose theirs. However, a significant majority of empirical research has shown that users do find and interact with opposing views. Furthermore, we argue that the notion of filter bubble overestimates the social impact of digital technologies in explaining social and political developments without considering the not-only-technological circumstances of online behavior and interaction. This provides us with motivation to reconsider this notion’s validity and re-elaborate it in light of existing epistemological theories that deal with the discomfort people experience when dealing with what they do not know. Therefore, we will survey a series of philosophical reflections regarding the epistemic limitations of human cognitive systems. In particular, we will discuss how knowledge and mere belief are phenomenologically indistinguishable and how people’s experience of having their beliefs challenged is cause of epistemic discomfort. We will then go on to argue, in contrast with Pariser’s assumptions, that digital media users might tend to conform to their held viewpoints because of the “immediate” way they experience opposing viewpoints. Since online people experience others and their viewpoints as material features of digital environments, we maintain that this modality of confronting oneself with contrasting opinions prompts users to reinforce their preexisting beliefs and attitudes.
Determination of the water-soluble polymer poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) in wastewater effluents by continuous-flow off-line pyrolysis-GC/MS
Authors: Vidovic Nada , Krauskopf Lisa-Maria , Jovancicevic Ivana , Antic Vesna , Schwarzbauer Jan
Published: March 2022

High production rates and wide areas of application of water-soluble polymers indicate their potential occurrence in wastewater. Poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) (PNVCL) is such a water-soluble and poorly biodegradable polymer with non-ionic, non-sticky, non-toxic and thermosensitive properties. Its field of applications covers being a constituent in aerosol sprays, pump sprays, and lotions as well as its usage as flocculant in wastewater treatment plants. However, although discharged into sewage treatment plants at high amounts, analytical methods for determining water soluble polymers, in particular PNVCL, in environmental samples are still missing. Therefore, this study aims at developing an efficient analytical method for detecting trace levels of poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) in wastewaters by applying continuous-flow off-line Py-GC/MS for the first time. The approach was based on the identification of specific off-line pyrolysis products (ε-caprolactam, N-vinylcaprolactam) that haven been used in the following for a calibration process that allowed a quantitative determination. An evaluation including specificity, linearity, sensitivity and reproducibility characterized this approach as very suitable for detection of this polymer in complex environmental matrices such as wastewaters. Finally, the transferability has been checked by analyzing a real wastewater from a sewage treatment plant effluent. Here limitations especially due to matrix effects are lowering the sensitivity of the pyrolysis-based method. Nevertheless, a contamination with approx. 70 µg/L of poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) was determined pointing to a huge emission of PNVCL into the aquatic environment and a general high environmental relevance of this synthetic polymer. Noteworthy, this is the first report on the occurrence of poly(N-vinylcaprolactam) in environmental samples.
Crown area predicts total biomass for Rhodomyrtus tomentosa, an invasive shrub in Florida
Authors: Smith Melissa C. , Pratt Paul D. , Rayamahji Min B.
Published: March 2022

Predictive models of aboveground plant biomass derived from nondestructive measurements greatly assist in monitoring and surveying natural areas. Where invasive species are concerned, these models can provide insights to the impacts of invasions and efficacy of management strategies. Furthermore, tools that facilitate a rapid inventory allow for multiple assessments of impact over larger areas. Downy rose myrtle [Rhodomyrtus tomentosa (Aiton) Hassk.] is an invasive shrub in Florida and Hawaii that is native to southeastern Asia. Rhodomyrtus tomentosa was imported into Florida in the early 20th century through the ornamental plant trade and produces pink flowers and edible purple globe fruits. This woody shrub is particularly problematic in the understory of Florida’s mesic pine forests, where it forms dense, impenetrable thickets. To characterize the populations more accurately in Florida and build predictive equations for biomass that could be used to inform control methods, we established a network of sites from which we harvested individuals over 3 yr. Based on these measurements, we built a simple predictive equation for R. tomentosa dry biomass. Crown area strongly associates with biomass in a linear relationship (P < 0.001, R2 = 0.82). Fruit production is highly variable, but positively correlates to plant height in individuals that have reached reproductive size (plants below 1 m generally do not produce fruit), albeit weakly (P < 0.002, R2 = 0.27). We demonstrate here that two simple measurements—height and crown area—can accurately predict biomass and, to some degree, fruit production for R. tomentosa in Florida and may guide control methods by focusing on removing individuals larger than 1 m tall.
Effect of secondary currents on the flow and turbulence in partially filled pipes
Authors: Liu Yan , Stoesser T. , Fang H.
Published: March 2022

Large-eddy simulations of turbulent flow in partially filled pipes are conducted to investigate the effect of secondary currents on the friction factor, first- and second-order statistics and large-scale turbulent motion. The method is validated first and simulated profiles of the mean streamwise velocity, normal stresses and turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) are shown to be in good agreement with experimental data. The secondary flow is stronger in half- and three-quarters full pipes compared with quarter full or fully filled pipe flows, respectively. The origin of the secondary flow is examined by both the TKE budget and the steamwise vorticity equation, providing evidence that secondary currents originate from the corner between the free surface and the pipe walls, which is where turbulence production is larger than the sum of the remaining terms of the TKE budget. An extra source of streamwise vorticity production is found at the free surface near the centreline bisector, due to the two-component asymmetric turbulence there. The occurrence of dispersive stresses (due to secondary currents) reduces the contribution of the turbulent shear stress to the friction factor, which results in a reduction of the total friction factor of flows in half and three-quarters full pipes in comparison to a fully filled pipe flow. Furthermore, the presence of significant secondary currents inhibits very-large-scale motion (VLSM), which in turn reduces the strength and scales of near-wall streaks. Subsequently, near-wall coherent structures generated by streak instability and transient growth are significantly suppressed. The absence of VLSM and less coherent near-wall turbulence structures is supposedly responsible for the drag reduction in partially filled pipe flows relative to a fully filled pipe flow at an equivalent Reynolds number.
Numerical approximation of viscous contact problems applied to glacial sliding
Authors: de Diego Gonzalo G. , Farrell Patrick E. , Hewitt Ian J.
Published: March 2022

Viscous contact problems describe the time evolution of fluid flows in contact with a surface from which they can detach and reattach. These problems are of particular importance in glaciology, where they arise in the study of grounding lines and subglacial cavities. In this work, we propose a novel numerical method for solving viscous contact problems based on a mixed formulation with Lagrange multipliers of a variational inequality involving the Stokes equations. The advection equation for evolving the geometry of the domain occupied by the fluid is then solved via a specially-built upwinding scheme, leading to a robust and accurate algorithm for viscous contact problems. We first verify the method by comparing the numerical results to analytical results obtained by a linearised method. Then we use this numerical scheme to reconstruct friction laws for glacial sliding with cavitation. Finally, we compute the evolution of cavities from a steady state under oscillating water pressures. The results depend strongly on the location of the initial steady state along the friction law. In particular, we find that if the steady state is located on the downsloping or rate-weakening part of the friction law, then the cavity evolves towards the upsloping section, indicating that the downsloping part is unstable.
RADIOCARBON CHRONOLOGY OF THE MESOLITHIC-NEOLITHIC SEQUENCE AT DAMJILI CAVE, AZERBAIJAN, SOUTHERN CAUCASUS
Authors: Nishiaki Yoshihiro , Zeynalov Azad , Munsrov Mansur , Guliyev Farhad
Published: March 2022

Current research indicates that full-fledged Neolithic societies emerged in the Southern Caucasus in the early sixth millennium BC, most likely through interaction with and/or the immigration of the Neolithic societies of Southwest Asia. However, the absence of late seventh millennium BC excavated sites has prevented us from being able to interpret the processes in relation to earlier indigenous foraging societies. The 2016–2019 excavations at Damjili Cave, west Azerbaijan, revealed a stratified cultural sequence of the key Mesolithic-to-Neolithic transition period for the first time. Its radiocarbon chronology identified a rather abrupt emergence of the Neolithic economy at around 6000 cal BC, at least in the study region, urging a reconsideration of the long-standing claim that some other form of earlier Neolithic society had existed before this. At the same time, the stratigraphic analysis of cultural remains revealed continuity in certain elements of tool manufacturing and use from the Mesolithic to the Neolithic. This complex situation shows the need for evaluating the degree to which indigenous foraging societies contributed to the Neolithization of the Southern Caucasus, rather than focusing merely on immigration models.
Naive cubical type theory
Authors: Bentzen Bruno
Published: March 2022

This article proposes a way of doing type theory informally, assuming a cubical style of reasoning. It can thus be viewed as a first step toward a cubical alternative to the program of informalization of type theory carried out in the homotopy type theory book for dependent type theory augmented with axioms for univalence and higher inductive types. We adopt a cartesian cubical type theory proposed by Angiuli, Brunerie, Coquand, Favonia, Harper, and Licata as the implicit foundation, confining our presentation to elementary results such as function extensionality, the derivation of weak connections and path induction, the groupoid structure of types, and the Eckmman–Hilton duality.
AD-LAST! An interdisciplinary clinical workshop to improve cultural and spiritual awareness in advance care planning skills
Authors: Pan Cynthia X. , Spinelli Alexandra , Litrivis Evgenia , Popoviciu Ariana , Thomson Kelly Persaud , Brondolo Elizabeth
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Clinicians report training deficits in advance care planning (ACP), including limits to their understanding of cultural/spiritual influences on patient decision-making and skills in interdisciplinary teamwork. This study describes Advance Directives-Live Action Simulation Training (AD-LAST), an interdisciplinary experiential and didactic training program for discussing ACP and end-of-life (EOL) care. AD-LAST highlights cultural/spiritual variations in medical decision-making.

Methods

Prospective educational cohort study with pre-post intervention survey. AD-LAST incorporated standard curricular tools for didactic and experiential training in ACP/EOL communication. Study conducted in an urban community teaching hospital in Queens, NY, one of the most diverse counties in the USA. Participants included physicians, house staff, nurses, therapists, and other disciplines. AD-LAST format was a one-day workshop. The morning focused on didactic teaching using widely available curricular tools. The afternoon involved experiential practice with standardized patient-actors. Pre-post intervention questionnaires assessed ACP operational knowledge and self-efficacy (i.e., self-confidence in skills) in ACP and EOL communication. Repeated measure ANOVAs evaluated changes from pretest to posttest in knowledge and self-efficacy.

Results

A total of 163 clinical staff participated in 21 AD-LAST training sessions between August 2015 and January 2019. Participants displayed a significant increase from pretest to posttest in total knowledge (p < 0.001), ACP procedural knowledge (p < 0.001), ACP communication/relationships knowledge (p < 0.001), and self-efficacy (p < 0.001). Knowledge and self-efficacy were not correlated and represented independent outcomes. Postprogram evaluations showed greater than 96% of participants were highly satisfied with AD-LAST, especially the opportunity to practice skills in real-time and receive feedback from members of other professional groups.

Significance of results

AD-LAST, a multifaceted training program deployed in an interdisciplinary setting, is effective for increasing ACP knowledge and self-efficacy, including the capacity to address cultural/spiritual concerns. The use of standard tools facilitates dissemination. The use of case simulations reinforces learning.
Effect of virtual reality-based exercise intervention on sleep quality in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and healthy siblings: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tanriverdi Müberra , Cakir Erkan , Akkoyunlu Muhammed Emin , Cakir Fatma Betül
Published: March 2022

Objective

Sleep is one of the important measurements of the quality of life for children especially suffering from a chronic illness such as cancer. Our aim was to determine the changes in sleep quality and to investigate the effect of virtual reality-based exercise (VRBE) approaches on sleep in patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) off treatment.

Method

The participants (ALL and healthy siblings) were evaluated for sleep quality with polysomnography and “Children's Sleep Habit Questionnaire” before and after 12 weeks. The study randomized into two groups: an exercise group who received VRBE in two days in a week, 45 min of each session for 12 weeks and an control group who were managed with supportive measures. The VRBE comprised of aerobic exercise in four different games by Nintendo Wii Fit Plus®.

Results

This randomized controlled trial was carried out on 38 participants. Before intervention, ALL patients (n = 24) and healthy siblings (n = 14) had similar sleep quality in terms of polysomnography and Children's Sleep Habit Questionnaire findings. After intervention, total time asleep (p = 0.023), respiratory disturbance index of hypopnea (p = 0.005), apnea/hypopnea index (p = 0.008), and number of apnea (p = 0.028) statistically significant improved.

Significance of results

Patients with ALL off treatment had similar values of sleep quality with healthy siblings. Novel types of exercises like VRBE have positive effects on sleep disorders in children with ALL and also healthy siblings. Future studies are needed comparing the different types of interventions.
Interventions targeting psychological well-being for motor neuron disease carers: A systematic review
Authors: Cafarella Paul , Effing Tanja , Chur-Hansen Anna
Published: March 2022

Objectives

This systematic review considers interventions designed to improve the psychological well-being (PWB) of carers of people with motor neuron disease (MND) using quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods studies, and aimed to (1) summarize current research, (2) assess the quality of evidence, and (3) evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.

Method

Mixed-methods systematic review (MMSR) was conducted based on Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods reviews and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines.

Results

Thirteen papers met the inclusion criteria, including 12 studies (six mixed-methods, four quantitative, and two qualitative). Four studies described randomized controlled trials, seven detailed uncontrolled longitudinal studies with a single treatment group and a pre-post design, and one was an observational survey. Critical appraisal of the studies revealed a wide range of weaknesses in the quantitative and/or qualitative methodologies. Due to the heterogeneity of interventions, outcomes, and measurements, a narrative and convergent approach to data synthesis was employed. While a minority of studies demonstrated some benefits to hedonic and eudaimonic aspects of PWB, the interpretability of these data was limited by methodological problems.

Significance of results

This MMSR highlighted a paucity of quality research regarding interventions for the PWB of MND carers. Although some benefits to PWB were demonstrated, most studies suffered from substantial methodological problems, rendering the overall evidence base low. High-quality and carefully designed studies are a priority to enable effective development and testing of much-needed interventions targeting the PWB for MND carers.
Strategies to improve the control of glyphosate-resistant horseweed (Erigeron canadensis) with glufosinate applied preplant to soybean
Authors: Dilliott Meghan , Soltani Nader , Hooker David C. , Robinson Darren E. , Sikkema Peter H.
Published: March 2022

The objectives of this study were to determine if the level and consistency of glyphosate-resistant (GR) horseweed control prior to soybean planting can be improved by (i) adding halauxifen-methyl, 2,4-D ester, saflufenacil, metribuzin, or dicamba to glufosinate, (ii) increasing the rate of glufosinate from 500 to 1,000 g ai ha–1, and (iii) adding 28% urea ammonium nitrate (UAN) as the carrier solution. During a 2-yr period (2020–2021), four field trials were conducted on commercial farms located in southwestern Ontario, Canada, with confirmed GR horseweed. Glufosinate controlled GR horseweed 65%, 66%, and 63% at 2, 4, and 8 wk after application (WAA), respectively, and reduced density and biomass 46% and 33% at 8 WAA, respectively. There was no improvement in GR horseweed control from the addition of halauxifen-methyl, 2,4-D ester or saflufenacil to glufosinate and no decrease in density and biomass, with the exception that the addition of saflufenacil to glufosinate reduced density 30% compared to glufosinate alone. The addition of metribuzin to glufosinate improved GR horseweed control by 22%, 22%, and 28% at 2, 4, and 8 WAA, respectively, and further reduced density and biomass 50% and 47%, respectively, at 8 WAA, respectively. The addition of dicamba to glufosinate improved GR horseweed control by 19%, 26%, and 30% at 2, 4, and 8 WAA, respectively, and further reduced density and biomass 54% and 60%, respectively, at 8 WAA. There was no improvement in GR horseweed control by increasing the rate of glufosinate from 500 to 1,000 g ai ha–1 or when using 28% UAN as the carrier solution. The addition of all herbicides to glufosinate, increasing the rate of glufosinate, or using 28% UAN as the carrier solution improved the consistency of GR horseweed control.
Target-site cross-resistance to ALS inhibitors in johnsongrass originating from Greek cornfields
Authors: Papapanagiotou Aristeidis P. , Loukovitis Dimitrios , Ntoanidou Symela , Eleftherohorinos Ilias G.
Published: March 2022

Five johnsongrass populations collected from corn grown in northern Greece were studied to elucidate the levels and mechanisms of resistance to acetolactate synthase (ALS)- and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase)-inhibiting herbicides. Whole-plant response assays indicated that two populations were highly cross-resistant to all ALS inhibitors tested (foramsulfuron, nicosulfuron, rimsulfuron, and imazamox) but were effectively controlled by the recommended rate of the ACCase-inhibiting herbicides propaquizafop and clethodim. TheALSgene sequence revealed a point mutation that resulted in the substitution of Trp574 by Leu in the ALS enzyme, suggesting that the resistance mechanism is target-site mediated. These findings highlight a serious threat against the sustainable use of the ALS-inhibiting herbicides in controlling johnsongrass and other grass weeds in cornfields, suggesting rotational use of herbicides with different modes of action, along with the use of nonchemical methods, for viable Johnsongrass management.
Potential Impact of Spring Thermal Forcing Over the Tibetan Plateau on the Following Winter El Niño–Southern Oscillation
Authors: Yu Wei , Liu Yimin , Xu Lianlian , Wu Guoxiong , Yang Song , Chen Dake , Yang Xiu‐Qun , Hu Chundi , He Bian
Published: March 2022

Using observational analysis and numerical experiments, we identify that the dipole mode of spring surface wind speed (SWS) over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) could act as a trigger for subsequent winter El Niño–Southern Oscillation events. During the positive phase of spring SWS dipole mode (south‐positive and north‐negative), a self‐sustaining “negative sensible heating–baroclinic structure” prevails over the western TP, which is characterized by negative surface sensible heating anomalies, anomalous low‐level anticyclones, and mid–high‐level cyclones. The “negative sensible heating–baroclinic structure” stimulates the surface westerly wind anomalies over the tropical western Pacific in May through two pathways, favoring the occurrence of subsequent El Niño events. One is through weakening the zonal monsoon circulation over the tropical Indian Ocean and the Walker circulation over the tropical western Pacific. The other is modulating the air–sea interaction over the North Pacific through triggering Rossby waves. The negative SWS dipole mode tends to induce La Niña events.
Transport of Phosphorus in the Hyporheic Zone
Authors: Jin Guangqiu , Chen Hexiang , Zhang Zhongtian , Jiang Qihao , Liu Zhenyu , Tang Hongwu
Published: March 2022

Phosphorus is not only an essential nutrient for organisms but also a major contributor to the eutrophication of fluvial ecosystems. Previous studies have focused on the flux of phosphorus at the water‐sediment interface, and very little is known about the transport and distribution of phosphorus in bedforms. In this study, a series of flume experiments and numerical simulations were conducted to investigate phosphorus dynamics in the hyporheic zone. The results show that the phosphorus concentration in the overlying water decreases faster than that of conservative solutes because of sediment adsorption. It is also found that the hyporheic exchange flux of phosphorus is more sensitive to the maximum adsorption capacity than to the equilibrium isotherm distribution coefficient, and the penetration depth is inhibited at higher maximum adsorption capacity. The mass proportion of phosphorus is decreased by 19.5% in the pore water but increased by 95.9% in the sediment with the increase of the maximum adsorption capacity from 0.5 to 1. These findings provide a better understanding of the transport and distribution of phosphorus in the riverbed and the contribution of transient flows such as flood to phosphorus dynamics in the hyporheic zone.
Characterizing cerebral metabolite profiles in anorexia and bulimia nervosa and their associations with habitual behavior
Authors: Westwater Margaret L. , Murley Alexander G. , Diederen Kelly M. J. , Carpenter T. Adrian , Ziauddeen Hisham , Fletcher Paul C.
Published: March 2022

Anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) are associated with altered brain structure and function, as well as increased habitual behavior. This neurobehavioral profile may implicate neurochemical changes in the pathogenesis of these illnesses. Altered glutamate, myo-inositol and N-acetyl aspartate (NAA) concentrations are reported in restrictive AN, yet whether these extend to binge-eating disorders, or relate to habitual traits in affected individuals, remains unknown. We therefore used single-voxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy to measure glutamate, myo-inositol, and NAA in the right inferior lateral prefrontal cortex and the right occipital cortex of 85 women [n = 22 AN (binge-eating/purging subtype; AN-BP), n = 33 BN, n = 30 controls]. To index habitual behavior, participants performed an instrumental learning task and completed the Creature of Habit Scale. Women with AN-BP, but not BN, had reduced myo-inositol and NAA concentrations relative to controls in both regions. Although patient groups had intact instrumental learning task performance, both groups reported increased routine behaviors compared to controls, and automaticity was related to reduced prefrontal glutamate and NAA participants with AN-BP. Our findings extend previous reports of reduced myo-inositol and NAA levels in restrictive AN to AN-BP, which may reflect disrupted axonal-glial signaling. Although we found inconsistent support for increased habitual behavior in AN-BP and BN, we identified preliminary associations between prefrontal metabolites and automaticity in AN-BP. These results provide further evidence of unique neurobiological profiles across binge-eating disorders.
A systematic review of microbial markers for risk prediction of colorectal neoplasia
Authors: Yu Lili , Zhao Gang , Wang Lijuan , Zhou Xuan , Sun Jing , Li Xinxuan , Zhu Yingshuang , He Yazhou , Kofonikolas Kleovoulos , Bogaert Debby , Dunlop Malcolm , Zhu Yimin , Theodoratou Evropi , Li Xue
Published: March 2022

Background

Substantial evidence indicates that dysbiosis of the gut microbial community is associated with colorectal neoplasia. This review aims to systematically summarise the microbial markers associated with colorectal neoplasia and to assess their predictive performance.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE and EMBASE databases was performed to identify eligible studies. Observational studies exploring the associations between microbial biomarkers and colorectal neoplasia were included. We also included prediction studies that constructed models using microbial markers to predict CRC and adenomas. Risk of bias for included observational and prediction studies was assessed.

Results

Forty-five studies were included to assess the associations between microbial markers and colorectal neoplasia. Nine faecal microbiotas (i.e.,Fusobacterium, Enterococcus, Porphyromonas, Salmonella, Pseudomonas, Peptostreptococcus,Actinomyces, BifidobacteriumandRoseburia), two oral pathogens (i.e.,Treponema denticolaandPrevotella intermedia) and serum antibody levels response toStreptococcus gallolyticus subspecies gallolyticuswere found to be consistently associated with colorectal neoplasia. Thirty studies reported prediction models using microbial markers, and 83.3% of these models had acceptable-to-good discrimination (AUROC > 0.75). The results of predictive performance were promising, but most of the studies were limited to small number of cases (range: 9–485 cases) and lack of independent external validation (76.7%).

Conclusions

This review provides insight into the evidence supporting the association between different types of microbial species and their predictive value for colorectal neoplasia. Prediction models developed from case-control studies require further external validation in high-quality prospective studies. Further studies should assess the feasibility and impact of incorporating microbial biomarkers in CRC screening programme.
A microphysiological model of human trophoblast invasion during implantation
Authors: Park Ju Young , Mani Sneha , Clair Geremy , Olson Heather M. , Paurus Vanessa L. , Ansong Charles K. , Blundell Cassidy , Young Rachel , Kanter Jessica , Gordon Scott , Yi Alex Y. , Mainigi Monica , Huh Dan Dongeun
Published: March 2022

Successful establishment of pregnancy requires adhesion of an embryo to the endometrium and subsequent invasion into the maternal tissue. Abnormalities in this critical process of implantation and placentation lead to many pregnancy complications. Here we present a microenigneered system to model a complex sequence of orchestrated multicellular events that plays an essential role in early pregnancy. Our implantation-on-a-chip is capable of reconstructing the three-dimensional structural organization of the maternal-fetal interface to model the invasion of specialized fetal extravillous trophoblasts into the maternal uterus. Using primary human cells isolated from clinical specimens, we demonstrate in vivo-like directional migration of extravillous trophoblasts towards a microengineered maternal vessel and their interactions with the endothelium necessary for vascular remodeling. Through parametric variation of the cellular microenvironment and proteomic analysis of microengineered tissues, we show the important role of decidualized stromal cells as a regulator of extravillous trophoblast migration. Furthermore, our study reveals previously unknown effects of pre-implantation maternal immune cells on extravillous trophoblast invasion. This work represents a significant advance in our ability to model early human pregnancy, and may enable the development of advanced in vitro platforms for basic and clinical research of human reproduction.
Myosin VI regulates the spatial organisation of mammalian transcription initiation
Authors: Hari-Gupta Yukti , Fili Natalia , dos Santos Ália , Cook Alexander W. , Gough Rosemarie E. , Reed Hannah C. W. , Wang Lin , Aaron Jesse , Venit Tomas , Wait Eric , Grosse-Berkenbusch Andreas , Gebhardt J. Christof M. , Percipalle Piergiorgio , Chew Teng-Leong , Martin-Fernandez Marisa , Toseland Christopher P.
Published: March 2022

During transcription, RNA Polymerase II (RNAPII) is spatially organised within the nucleus into clusters that correlate with transcription activity. While this is a hallmark of genome regulation in mammalian cells, the mechanisms concerning the assembly, organisation and stability remain unknown. Here, we have used combination of single molecule imaging and genomic approaches to explore the role of nuclear myosin VI (MVI) in the nanoscale organisation of RNAPII. We reveal that MVI in the nucleus acts as the molecular anchor that holds RNAPII in high density clusters. Perturbation of MVI leads to the disruption of RNAPII localisation, chromatin organisation and subsequently a decrease in gene expression. Overall, we uncover the fundamental role of MVI in the spatial regulation of gene expression.
Reversible writing/deleting of magnetic skyrmions through hydrogen adsorption/desorption
Authors: Chen Gong , Ophus Colin , Quintana Alberto , Kwon Heeyoung , Won Changyeon , Ding Haifeng , Wu Yizheng , Schmid Andreas K. , Liu Kai
Published: March 2022

Magnetic skyrmions are topologically nontrivial spin textures with envisioned applications in energy-efficient magnetic information storage. Toggling the presence of magnetic skyrmions via writing/deleting processes is essential for spintronics applications, which usually require the application of a magnetic field, a gate voltage or an electric current. Here we demonstrate the reversible field-free writing/deleting of skyrmions at room temperature, via hydrogen chemisorption/desorption on the surface of Ni and Co films. Supported by Monte-Carlo simulations, the skyrmion creation/annihilation is attributed to the hydrogen-induced magnetic anisotropy change on ferromagnetic surfaces. We also demonstrate the role of hydrogen and oxygen on magnetic anisotropy and skyrmion deletion on other magnetic surfaces. Our results open up new possibilities for designing skyrmionic and magneto-ionic devices.
Choice of vector and surgical approach enables efficient cochlear gene transfer in nonhuman primate
Authors: Andres-Mateos Eva , Landegger Lukas D. , Unzu Carmen , Phillips Jean , Lin Brian M. , Dewyer Nicholas A. , Sanmiguel Julio , Nicolaou Fotini , Valero Michelle D. , Bourdeu Kathrin I. , Sewell William F. , Beiler Rudolph J. , McKenna Michael J. , Stankovic Konstantina M. , Vandenberghe Luk H.
Published: March 2022

Inner ear gene therapy using adeno-associated viral vectors (AAV) promises to alleviate hearing and balance disorders. We previously established the benefits of Anc80L65 in targeting inner and outer hair cells in newborn mice. To accelerate translation to humans, we now report the feasibility and efficiency of the surgical approach and vector delivery in a nonhuman primate model. Five rhesus macaques were injected with AAV1 or Anc80L65 expressing eGFP using a transmastoid posterior tympanotomy approach to access the round window membrane after making a small fenestra in the oval window. The procedure was well tolerated. All but one animal showed cochlear eGFP expression 7–14 days following injection. Anc80L65 in 2 animals transduced up to 90% of apical inner hair cells; AAV1 was markedly less efficient at equal dose. Transduction for both vectors declined from apex to base. These data motivate future translational studies to evaluate gene therapy for human hearing disorders.
Intrinsically disordered intracellular domains control key features of the mechanically-gated ion channel PIEZO2
Authors: Verkest Clement , Schaefer Irina , Nees Timo A. , Wang Na , Jegelka Juri M. , Taberner Francisco J. , Lechner Stefan G.
Published: March 2022

A central question in mechanobiology is how mechanical forces acting in or on cells are transmitted to mechanically-gated PIEZO channels that convert these forces into biochemical signals. Here we examined the role of the intracellular domains of PIEZO2, which account for 25% of the channel, and demonstrate that these domains fine-tune properties such as poking and stretch-sensitivity, velocity coding and single channel conductance. Moreover, we show that the intrinsically disordered linker between the transmembrane helices twelve and thirteen (IDR5) is required for the activation of PIEZO2 by cytoskeleton-transmitted forces. The deletion of IDR5 abolishes PIEZO2-mediated inhibition of neurite outgrowth, while it only partially affected its sensitivity to cell indentation and does not alter its stretch sensitivity. Thus, we propose that PIEZO2 is a polymodal mechanosensor that detects different types of mechanical stimuli via different force transmission pathways, which highlights the importance of utilizing multiple complementary assays when investigating PIEZO function.
A kinetic model predicts SpCas9 activity, improves off-target classification, and reveals the physical basis of targeting fidelity
Authors: Eslami-Mossallam Behrouz , Klein Misha , Smagt Constantijn V. D. , Sanden Koen V. D. , Jones Stephen K. , Hawkins John A. , Finkelstein Ilya J. , Depken Martin
Published: March 2022

The S. pyogenes (Sp) Cas9 endonuclease is an important gene-editing tool. SpCas9 is directed to target sites based on complementarity to a complexed single-guide RNA (sgRNA). However, SpCas9-sgRNA also binds and cleaves genomic off-targets with only partial complementarity. To date, we lack the ability to predict cleavage and binding activity quantitatively, and rely on binary classification schemes to identify strong off-targets. We report a quantitative kinetic model that captures the SpCas9-mediated strand-replacement reaction in free-energy terms. The model predicts binding and cleavage activity as a function of time, target, and experimental conditions. Trained and validated on high-throughput bulk-biochemical data, our model predicts the intermediate R-loop state recently observed in single-molecule experiments, as well as the associated conversion rates. Finally, we show that our quantitative activity predictor can be reduced to a binary off-target classifier that outperforms the established state-of-the-art. Our approach is extensible, and can characterize any CRISPR-Cas nuclease – benchmarking natural and future high-fidelity variants against SpCas9; elucidating determinants of CRISPR fidelity; and revealing pathways to increased specificity and efficiency in engineered systems.
Pressure-induced liquid-liquid transition in a family of ionic materials
Authors: Wojnarowska Zaneta , Cheng Shinian , Yao Beibei , Swadzba-Kwasny Malgorzata , McLaughlin Shannon , McGrogan Anne , Delavoux Yoan , Paluch Marian
Published: March 2022

Liquid−liquid transition (LLT) between two disordered phases of single-component material remains one of the most intriguing physical phenomena. Here, we report a first-order LLT in a series of ionic liquids containing trihexyl(tetradecyl)phosphonium cation [P666,14]+ and anions of different sizes and shapes, providing an insight into the structure-property relationships governing LLT. In addition to calorimetric proof of LLT, we report that ion dynamics exhibit anomalous behavior during the LLT, i.e., the conductivity relaxation times (τσ) are dramatically elongated, and their distribution becomes broader. This peculiar behavior is induced by isobaric cooling and isothermal compression, with the τσ(TLL,PLL) constant for a given system. The latter observation proves that LLT, in analogy to liquid-glass transition, has an isochronal character. Finally, the magnitude of discontinuity in a specific volume at LLT was estimated using the Clausius-Clapeyron equation.
Battery technology and recycling alone will not save the electric mobility transition from future cobalt shortages
Authors: Zeng Anqi , Chen Wu , Rasmussen Kasper Dalgas , Zhu Xuehong , Lundhaug Maren , Müller Daniel B. , Tan Juan , Keiding Jakob K. , Liu Litao , Dai Tao , Wang Anjian , Liu Gang
Published: March 2022

In recent years, increasing attention has been given to the potential supply risks of critical battery materials, such as cobalt, for electric mobility transitions. While battery technology and recycling advancement are two widely acknowledged strategies for addressing such supply risks, the extent to which they will relieve global and regional cobalt demand–supply imbalance remains poorly understood. Here, we address this gap by simulating historical (1998-2019) and future (2020-2050) global cobalt cycles covering both traditional and emerging end uses with regional resolution (China, the U.S., Japan, the EU, and the rest of the world). We show that cobalt-free batteries and recycling progress can indeed significantly alleviate long-term cobalt supply risks. However, the cobalt supply shortage appears inevitable in the short- to medium-term (during 2028-2033), even under the most technologically optimistic scenario. Our results reveal varying cobalt supply security levels by region and indicate the urgency of boosting primary cobalt supply to ensure global e-mobility ambitions.
Numerosity tuning in human association cortices and local image contrast representations in early visual cortex
Authors: Paul Jacob M. , van Ackooij Martijn , ten Cate Tuomas C. , Harvey Ben M.
Published: March 2022

Human early visual cortex response amplitudes monotonically increase with numerosity (object number), regardless of object size and spacing. However, numerosity is typically considered a high-level visual or cognitive feature, while early visual responses follow image contrast in the spatial frequency domain. We find that, at fixed contrast, aggregate Fourier power (at all orientations and spatial frequencies) follows numerosity closely but nonlinearly with little effect of object size, spacing or shape. This would allow straightforward numerosity estimation from spatial frequency domain image representations. Using 7T fMRI, we show monotonic responses originate in primary visual cortex (V1) at the stimulus’s retinotopic location. Responses here and in neural network models follow aggregate Fourier power more closely than numerosity. Truly numerosity tuned responses emerge after lateral occipital cortex and are independent of retinotopic location. We propose numerosity’s straightforward perception and neural responses may result from the pervasive spatial frequency analyses of early visual processing.
Electro-assisted printing of soft hydrogels via controlled electrochemical reactions
Authors: Da Silva Aruã Clayton , Wang Junzhi , Minev Ivan Rusev
Published: March 2022

Hydrogels underpin many applications in tissue engineering, cell encapsulation, drug delivery and bioelectronics. Methods improving control over gelation mechanisms and patterning are still needed. Here we explore a less-known gelation approach relying on sequential electrochemical–chemical–chemical (ECC) reactions. An ionic species and/or molecule in solution is oxidised over a conductive surface at a specific electric potential. The oxidation generates an intermediate species that reacts with a macromolecule, forming a hydrogel at the electrode–electrolyte interface. We introduce potentiostatic control over this process, allowing the selection of gelation reactions and control of hydrogel growth rate. In chitosan and alginate systems, we demonstrate precipitation, covalent and ionic gelation mechanisms. The method can be applied in the polymerisation of hybrid systems consisting of more than one polymer. We demonstrate concomitant deposition of the conductive polymer Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and alginate. Deposition of the hydrogels occurs in small droplets held between a conductive plate (working electrode, WE), a printing nozzle (counter electrode, CE) and a pseudoreference electrode (reference electrode, RE). We install this setup on a commercial 3D printer to demonstrate patterning of adherent hydrogels on gold and flexible ITO foils. Electro-assisted printing may contribute to the integration of well-defined hydrogels on hybrid electronic-hydrogel devices for bioelectronics applications.
Growth of Neogene Andes linked to changes in plate convergence using high-resolution kinematic models
Authors: Quiero Felipe , Tassara Andrés , Iaffaldano Giampiero , Rabbia Osvaldo
Published: March 2022

The Andean cordillera was constructed during compressive tectonic events, whose causes and controls remain unclear. Exploring a possible link to plate convergence has been impeded by the coarse temporal resolution of existing plate kinematic models. Here we show that the Neogene evolution of the Andean margin is primarily related to changes in convergence as observed in new high-resolution plate reconstructions. Building on a compilation of plate finite rotations spanning the last 30 million years and using noise-mitigation techniques, we predict several short-term convergence changes that were unresolved in previous models. These changes are related to main tectono-magmatic events and require forces that are compatible with a range of geodynamic processes. These results allow to revise models of ongoing subduction orogeny at its type locality, emphasizing the role of upper plate deformation in the balance between kinematic energy associated with plate motion and gravitational potential energy stored in orogenic crustal roots.
A national survey of physical activity after spinal cord injury
Authors: Soriano Jan Elaine , Squair Jordan W. , Cragg Jacquelyn J. , Thompson Jennifer , Sanguinetti Rafael , Vaseghi Bita , Emery Carolyn A. , Grant Christopher , Charbonneau Rebecca , Larkin-Kaiser Kelly A. , Phillips Aaron A. , Dujic Zeljko
Published: March 2022

Physical activity is a powerful modifiable risk factor for disease and mortality. Physical activity levels in people with spinal cord injury (SCI) have not been quantified relative to uninjured individuals in a large population-based sample. We aimed to quantify and compare physical activity in people with and without SCI, and to examine the associations between physical activity, lifestyle, and socioeconomic factors. The 2010 Canadian Community Health Survey (n > 57,000) was used, which includes three measures that assess physical activity levels (i.e., leisure time activity frequency, leisure time activity intensity, and transportation time activity intensity). Bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions were performed and odds ratios (ORs) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. The odds of physical activity in people with SCI were 0.43 (95% CI 0.3–0.61), 0.53 (95% CI 0.36–0.75), and 0.42 (95% CI 0.28–0.61), across the three measures of physical activity, respectively. These differences persisted after adjustment for lifestyle, comorbidities, and socioeconomic factors. Physical activity is reduced in the SCI population compared with the general population. This knowledge is important to direct future research and guide the allocation of health care resources.