bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Authoritarian Inheritance, Political Conflict and Conservative Party Institutionalisation: The Cases of Chile and Brazil
Authors: Borges André
Published: October 2021

Party development in post-transition Latin America has often proceeded unevenly, as right-wing elites opted for non-partisan forms of political action and conservative parties remained poorly institutionalised. Recent research has demonstrated that party-building was facilitated where the political Right benefited from valuable political assets – party brand, territorial organisation, sources of funding and clientelistic networks – inherited from authoritarian regimes. This article argues that authoritarian inheritance in isolation is insufficient to foster conservative party institutionalisation. It analyses the trajectories of the major right-wing parties in Brazil and Chile, where former authoritarian incumbents benefited extensively from authoritarian inheritance and yet levels of institutionalisation differed widely across parties. The comparative analysis demonstrates that right-wing parties were most likely to consolidate where, in addition to inheriting valuable resources from the dictatorship, they experienced ideologically driven, violent conflict during their early years.
Kaitiakitanga, Whai Wāhi and Alien Weaponry: indigenous frameworks for understanding language, identity and international success in the case of a Māori metal band
Authors: Lucas Olivia R.
Published: October 2021

New Zealand Māori metal band Alien Weaponry rose from local act to international prominence over the course of 2016–2018, lauded by critics and fans for their songs involving Māori history and culture, and with lyrics in the indigenous Māori language. This article examines Alien Weaponry's participation in Māori language revitalisation efforts and explores the use of indigenous frameworks for analysing these issues. Māori principles of kaitiakitanga (protection) and whai wāhi (participation) offer an understanding of the band's contributions to both Māori cultural preservation and global metal, and of how these contributions cooperate in the band's success. In addition to unpacking the issues of identity, indigenousness and language revitalisation inherent in understanding Alien Weaponry's output, this article also expands on previous work on nationhood and identity in both global metal music and Māori popular music.
Body mass index and age are associated with ventricular end-diastolic pressure in adults with a Fontan circulation
Authors: Howell Mary , Anderson William E. , Alegria Jorge , Paolillo Joseph , Schwartz Matthew C.
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Systemic ventricular end-diastolic pressure is an important haemodynamic variable in adult patients with Fontan circulation. Risk factors associated with elevated end-diastolic pressure have not been clearly identified in this population.

Methods:

All patients > 18 years with Fontan circulation who underwent cardiac catheterisation at our centre between 1/08 and 3/19 were included. Relevant patient variables were extracted. Univariate and multivariate general linear models were analysed to identify variables associated with end-diastolic pressure.

Results:

Forty-two patients were included. Median age was 24.0 years (20.9–29.0) with a body mass index of 23.7 kg/m2 (21.5–29.7). 10 (23.8%) patients had a systemic right ventricle. The median (Interquartile range) and mean pulmonary artery pressure were 11.0 mmHg (9.0–12.0) and 16.0 mmHg (13.0–18.0), respectively. On univariate analysis, end-diastolic pressure was positively associated with body mass index (p < 0.01), age > 25 years (p = 0.04), symptoms of heart failure (p < 0.01), systemic ventricular systolic pressure (p = 0.03), pulmonary artery mean pressure (p < 0.01), and taking diuretics (p < 0.01) or sildenafil (p < 0.01). End-diastolic pressure was negatively associated with aortic saturation (p < 0.01). On multivariate analysis, end-diastolic pressure was positively associated with age ≥ 25 years (p < 0.01), and body mass index (p = 0.04).

Conclusions:

In a cohort of adult patients with Fontan circulation undergoing catheterisation, end-diastolic pressure was positively associated with age ≥ 25 years and body mass index on multivariate analysis. Maintaining a healthy body mass index may offer haemodynamic benefit in adults with Fontan physiology.
A WIN-WIN MODEL OF DEVELOPMENT: HOW INDIAN ECONOMICS REDEFINED UNIVERSAL DEVELOPMENT FROM AND AT THE MARGINS, 1870–1905
Authors: Bach Maria
Published: October 2021

In this article, I argue that looking at lesser known intellectuals can help the history of economics to uncover new ways of seeing the world. My focus is the beginnings of “Indian economics” and its conceptualization of development. The Indian economists, despite their elite status in India, were from an imperial context where they were never considered economists. Studies throughout the twentieth century continued to treat them only as nationalists, rarely as contributors to economic knowledge. My research gives agency to these economists. I show how the position of Indian economics from the margins of discursive space offered a unique perspective that enabled it to innovate at the margins of development discourse. Indian economics redefined the concept of universality in the existing nineteenth-century idea of development by rejecting the widely accepted comparative advantage model and assertion that progress originated in Europe. Moreover, the economists pushed for universal industrialization, even for imperial territories, arguing that universal progress was beneficial to all.
Migrating and Nerve Fibers-Associated Eosinophilic Granule Cells in the Olfactory Organ of Catfish (Clarias garpienius): Light and Electron Microscopic Evidence
Authors: Awad Mahmoud , Emeish Walaa FA , Mohamedien Dalia
Published: October 2021

Piscine mast cells or eosinophilic granule cells (EGCs) of fish are equivalent to the mammalian mast cells. Recently, a better understanding of EGCs functions is allowed because of the growing interest in fish models. Herein, we present a trial to furnish data regarding the distribution of the EGCs in the fish olfactory organ, an issue that has not been reported so far. Regarding their distribution, two kinds of EGCs had been identified. An intra-epithelial one was detected in the olfactory epithelium lining of the olfactory lamellae. The stromal one was identified in the connective tissue core of the olfactory lamellae and in the lamina propria underlying the olfactory epithelium. Some were detected in the capillary lumen. The cytoplasm of the EGCs reacted strongly with the MMP-9 antibody. Stimulating a migration perspective for the olfactory EGCs which was confirmed by their location in the blood capillaries. Several EGCs could be verified in close relation, some underneath the epineurium, with the nerve fiber. Mutually, this verifies the existence of intra-epithelial and stromal migrating EGCs in the catfish olfactory organ and their inclusion in the olfactory immune response. Additionally, this provides evidence for an immune–nervous interaction to influence both the immune reactions and the nervous scheme in catfish.
Aboriginal community-controlled aged care: principles, practices and actions to integrate with primary health care
Authors: Dawson Anna , Harfield Stephen , Davy Carol , Baker Anna , Kite Elaine , Aitken Graham , Morey Kim , Braunack-Mayer Annette , Brown Alex
Published: October 2021

Aim:

To identify: 1) best practice aged care principles and practices for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander older peoples, and 2) actions to integrate aged care services with Aboriginal community-controlled primary health care.

Background:

There is a growing number of older Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and an unmet demand for accessible, culturally safe aged care services. The principles and features of aged care service delivery designed to meet the unique needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have not been extensively explored and must be understood to inform aged care policy and primary health care planning into the future.

Methods:

The research was governed by leaders from across the Aboriginal community-controlled primary health care sector who identified exemplar services to explore best practice in culturally aligned aged care. In-depth case studies were undertaken with two metropolitan Aboriginal community-controlled services. We conducted semi-structured interviews and yarning circles with 46 staff members to explore key principles, ways of working, enablers and challenges for aged care service provision. A framework approach to thematic analysis was undertaken with emergent findings reviewed and refined by participating services and the governance panel to incorporate national perspectives.

Findings:

A range of principles guided Aboriginal community-controlled aged care service delivery, such as supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander identity, connection with elders and communities and respect for self-determination. Strong governance, effective leadership and partnerships, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce and culturally safe non-Indigenous workforce were among the identified enablers of aged care. Nine implementation actions guided the integration of aged care with primary health care service delivery. Funding limitations, workforce shortages, change management processes and difficulties with navigating the aged care system were among the reported challenges. These findings contribute to an evidence base regarding accessible, integrated, culturally safe aged care services tailored to the needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Influence of Living Arrangements on the Psychological Health of Older Women in Slums
Authors: Ghosh Anushka , Mukhopadhyay Susmita
Published: October 2021

Abstract. This study investigates the relationship between living arrangements and the psychological health of older women. It includes a total of 252 women aged 60+ years living in the slums of Kolkata, India. The results reveal that psychological impairments were highly prevalent in the study population. The pattern of living arrangements was found to affect psychological health conditions. Women living with distant relatives were found to be more psychologically distressed than their counterparts. Furthermore, emotional support showed significant contribution on psychological health status even after adjusting for the effect of living arrangements. Age and educational status were the most significant of the other concomitants. Overall, this study suggests that the combined effect of socioeconomic conditions, social support along with changing living arrangements may lead to observed psychological impairments.
Heterogeneous Sediment Input at the Nankai Trough Subduction Zone: Implications for Shallow Slow Earthquake Localization
Authors: Tilley H. , Moore G. F. , Underwood M. B. , Hernández‐Molina F. J. , Yamashita M. , Kodaira S. , Nakanishi A.
Published: October 2021

Subducted sediment plays a key role in modulating pore pressure and seismic behavior at subduction zones. We investigated the seismic character of incoming sediments to test how sediment and basement variations relate to the along‐strike changes within the accretionary prism and plate boundary conditions at the Nankai Trough. High‐resolution seismic data reveal for the first time the presence of countourite mounded drifts in the Shikoku Basin. These features have probably introduced permeability heterogeneities into an otherwise homogenous mud‐dominant unit. Additionally, we found that normal faults in this unit are more extensive than previously documented, which probably enhances along‐strike fluid transport. The wedge taper is more correlative with the thickness of the mud‐dominant facies than the turbidite thickness. This may be due to the permeability heterogeneities associated with contourite deposits and normal faults, or due to the absence of thick turbidite deposits. Turbidite deposits can either aid the drainage of the margin where they are not confined by basement topography, or contribute to high pore fluid pressures where they are confined by less permeable mudstone or basement topography. When confined turbidite deposits and contourite mounded drifts are subducted, they may contribute to localized compartments of excess pore pressure which provide the necessary conditions for slow slip behavior. We determined that along‐strike variations in seismic behavior are likely related to the subducting basement topographic and sediment characteristics, which vary on a local (<10 km) scale.
Topological holographic quench dynamics in a synthetic frequency dimension
Authors: Yu Danying , Peng Bo , Chen Xianfeng , Liu Xiong-Jun , Yuan Luqi
Published: October 2021

The notion of topological phases extended to dynamical systems stimulates extensive studies, of which the characterization of nonequilibrium topological invariants is a central issue and usually necessitates the information of quantum dynamics in both the time and momentum dimensions. Here, we propose the topological holographic quench dynamics in synthetic dimension, and also show it provides a highly efficient scheme to characterize photonic topological phases. A pseudospin model is constructed with ring resonators in a synthetic lattice formed by frequencies of light, and the quench dynamics is induced by initializing a trivial state, which evolves under a topological Hamiltonian. Our key prediction is that the complete topological information of the Hamiltonian is encoded in quench dynamics solely in the time dimension, and is further mapped to lower-dimensional space, manifesting the holographic features of the dynamics. In particular, two fundamental time scales emerge in the dynamical evolution, with one mimicking the topological band on the momentum dimension and the other characterizing the residue time evolution of the state after the quench. For this, a universal duality between the quench dynamics and the equilibrium topological phase of the spin model is obtained in the time dimension by extracting information from the field evolution dynamics in modulated ring systems in simulations. This work also shows that the photonic synthetic frequency dimension provides an efficient and powerful way to explore the topological nonequilibrium dynamics.
BUB1B and circBUB1B_544aa aggravate multiple myeloma malignancy through evoking chromosomal instability
Authors: Tang Xiaozhu , guo Mengjie , Ding Pinggang , Deng Zhendong , Ke Mengying , Yuan Yuxia , Zhou Yanyan , Lin Zigen , Li Muxi , Gu Chunyan , Gu Xiaosong , Yang Ye
Published: October 2021

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable plasma cell malignancy in the bone marrow characterized by chromosome instability (CIN), which contributes to the acquisition of heterogeneity, along with MM progression, drug resistance, and relapse. In this study, we elucidated that the expression of BUB1B increased strikingly in MM patients and was closely correlated with poor outcomes. Overexpression of BUB1B facilitated cellular proliferation and induced drug resistance in vitro and in vivo, while genetic targeting BUB1B abrogated this effect. Mechanistic studies unveiled that enforced expression of BUB1B evoked CIN resulting in MM poor outcomes mainly through phosphorylating CEP170. Interestingly, we discovered the existence of circBUB1B_544aa containing the kinase catalytic center of BUB1B, which was translated by a circular RNA of BUB1B. The circBUB1B_544aa elevated in MM peripheral blood samples was closely associated with MM poor outcomes and played a synergistic effect with BUB1B on evoking CIN. In addition, MM cells could secrete circBUB1B_544aa and interfere the MM microenvironmental cells in the same manner as BUB1B full-length protein. Intriguingly, BUB1B siRNA, targeting the kinase catalytic center of both BUB1B and circBUB1B_544aa, significantly inhibited MM malignancy in vitro and in vivo. Collectively, BUB1B and circBUB1B_544aa are promising prognostic and therapeutic targets of MM.
TRIP6 functions in brain ciliogenesis
Authors: Shukla Shalmali , Haenold Ronny , Urbánek Pavel , Frappart Lucien , Monajembashi Shamci , Grigaravicius Paulius , Nagel Sigrun , Min Woo Kee , Tapias Alicia , Kassel Olivier , Heuer Heike , Wang Zhao-Qi , Ploubidou Aspasia , Herrlich Peter
Published: October 2021

TRIP6, a member of the ZYXIN-family of LIM domain proteins, is a focal adhesion component.Trip6deletion in the mouse, reported here, reveals a function in the brain: ependymal and choroid plexus epithelial cells are carrying, unexpectedly, fewer and shorter cilia, are poorly differentiated, and the mice develop hydrocephalus. TRIP6 carries numerous protein interaction domains and its functions require homodimerization. Indeed, TRIP6 disruption in vitro (in a choroid plexus epithelial cell line), via RNAi or inhibition of its homodimerization, confirms its function in ciliogenesis. Using super-resolution microscopy, we demonstrate TRIP6 localization at the pericentriolar material and along the ciliary axoneme. The requirement for homodimerization which doubles its interaction sites, its punctate localization along the axoneme, and its co-localization with other cilia components suggest a scaffold/co-transporter function for TRIP6 in cilia. Thus, this work uncovers an essential role of a LIM-domain protein assembly factor in mammalian ciliogenesis.
Bidirectional and reversible tuning of the interlayer spacing of two-dimensional materials
Authors: Ding Yiran , Zeng Mengqi , Zheng Qijing , Zhang Jiaqian , Xu Ding , Chen Weiyin , Wang Chenyang , Chen Shulin , Xie Yingying , Ding Yu , Zheng Shuting , Zhao Jin , Gao Peng , Fu Lei
Published: October 2021

Interlayer spacing is expected to influence the properties of multilayer two-dimensional (2D) materials. However, the ability to non-destructively regulate the interlayer spacing bidirectionally and reversibly is challenging. Here we report the preparation of 2D materials with tunable interlayer spacing by introducing active sites (Ce ions) in 2D materials to capture and immobilize Pt single atoms. The strong chemical interaction between active sites and Pt atoms contributes to the intercalation behavior of Pt atoms in the interlayer of 2D materials and further promotes the formation of chemical bonding between Pt atom and host materials. Taking cerium-embedded molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) as an example, intercalation of Pt atoms enables interlayer distance tuning via an electrochemical protocol, leading to interlayer spacing reversible and linear compression and expansion from 6.546 ± 0.039 Å to 5.792 ± 0.038 Å (~11 %). The electronic property evolution with the interlayer spacing variation is demonstrated by the photoluminescence (PL) spectra, delivering that the well-defined barrier between the multilayer and monolayer layered materials can be artificially designed.
Biofilms can act as plasmid reserves in the absence of plasmid specific selection
Authors: Røder Henriette Lyng , Trivedi Urvish , Russel Jakob , Kragh Kasper Nørskov , Herschend Jakob , Thalsø-Madsen Ida , Tolker-Nielsen Tim , Bjarnsholt Thomas , Burmølle Mette , Madsen Jonas Stenløkke
Published: October 2021

Plasmids facilitate rapid bacterial adaptation by shuttling a wide variety of beneficial traits across microbial communities. However, under non-selective conditions, maintaining a plasmid can be costly to the host cell. Nonetheless, plasmids are ubiquitous in nature where bacteria adopt their dominant mode of life - biofilms. Here, we demonstrate that biofilms can act as spatiotemporal reserves for plasmids, allowing them to persist even under non-selective conditions. However, under these conditions, spatial stratification of plasmid-carrying cells may promote the dispersal of cells without plasmids, and biofilms may thus act as plasmid sinks.
Comparing crystal structures with symmetry and geometry
Authors: Thomas John C. , Natarajan Anirudh Raju , Van der Ven Anton
Published: October 2021

Measuring the similarity between two arbitrary crystal structures is a common challenge in crystallography and materials science. Although there are an infinite number of ways to mathematically relate two crystal structures, only a few are physically meaningful. Here we introduce both a geometry-based and a symmetry-adapted similarity metric to compare crystal structures. Using crystal symmetry and combinatorial optimization we describe an algorithm to arrive at the structural relationship that minimizes these similarity metrics across all possible maps between any pair of crystal structures. The approach makes it possible to (i) identify pairs of crystal structures that are identical, (ii) quantitatively measure the similarity between crystal structures, and (iii) find and rank structural transformation pathways between any pair of crystal structures. We discuss the advantages of using the symmetry-adapted cost metric over the geometric cost. Finally, we show that all known structural transformation pathways between common crystal structures are recovered with the mapping algorithm. The methodology presented in this study will be of value to efforts that seek to catalogue crystal structures, identify structural transformation pathways or prune large first-principles datasets used to parameterize on-lattice Hamiltonians.
Genomic alterations associated with mutational signatures, DNA damage repair and chromatin remodeling pathways in cervical carcinoma
Authors: Halle Mari K. , Sundaresan Aishwarya , Zhang Jianqing , Pedamallu Chandra Sekhar , Srinivasasainagendra Vinodh , Blair Jessica , Brooke Dewey , Bertelsen Bjørn I. , Woie Kathrine , Shrestha Sadeep , Tiwari Hemant , Wong Yick Fu , Krakstad Camilla , Ojesina Akinyemi I.
Published: October 2021

Despite recent advances in the prevention of cervical cancer, the disease remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. By applying the GISTIC2.0 and/or the MutSig2CV algorithms on 430 whole-exome-sequenced cervical carcinomas, we identified previously unreported significantly mutated genes (SMGs) (including MSN, GPX1, SPRED3, FAS, and KRT8), amplifications (including NFIA, GNL1, TGIF1, and WDR87) and deletions (including MIR562, PVRL1, and NTM). Subset analyses of 327 squamous cell carcinomas and 86 non-squamous cell carcinomas revealed previously unreported SMGs in BAP1 and IL28A, respectively. Distinctive copy number alterations related to tumors predominantly enriched for *CpG- and Tp*C mutations were observed. CD274, GRB2, KRAS, and EGFR were uniquely significantly amplified within the Tp*C-enriched tumors. A high frequency of aberrations within DNA damage repair and chromatin remodeling genes were detected. Facilitated by the large sample size derived from combining multiple datasets, this study reveals potential targets and prognostic markers for cervical cancer.
Impact of baseline clinical features on outcomes of nebulized glycopyrrolate therapy in COPD
Authors: Tashkin Donald P. , Niu Xiaoli , Sharma Sanjay , Sanjar Shahin
Published: October 2021

Inhaled bronchodilators are central for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as they can provide symptom relief and reduce the frequency and severity of exacerbations while improving health status and exercise tolerance. In 2017, glycopyrrolate (GLY) delivered via the eFlow® closed system (CS) nebulizer (nebulized GLY; 25 µg twice daily), was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for maintenance treatment of moderate-to-very-severe COPD. This approval was based largely on results from the replicate, placebo-controlled, Phase III clinical trials- GOLDEN 3 and 4. In this review, we summarize key findings from secondary analyses of the GOLDEN 3 and 4 studies, and provide a comprehensive overview that may assist both pulmonologists and primary-care providers in their treatment decisions. Comorbidities are common among patients with COPD in clinical practice and may impact bronchodilator efficacy. This review highlights outcomes among subpopulations of patients with comorbidities (e.g., anxiety/depression, cardiovascular disease), and their impact on the efficacy of nebulized GLY. In addition, the efficacy and safety of nebulized GLY across various demographics (e.g., age, gender) and baseline disease characteristics (e.g., disease severity, rescue medication use) are discussed. Real-world outcomes with nebulized GLY, including device satisfaction, healthcare resource utilization, and exacerbations, are also presented. These secondary analyses and real-world data complement the primary results with nebulized GLY from Phase III studies and support the need for the inclusion of patients representative of real-world clinical practice in RCTs. In addition, these data suggest that RCTs for COPD therapies should be complemented with real-world observational studies.
High-temperature superconductivity and its robustness against magnetic polarization in monolayer FeSe on EuTiO3
Authors: Liu Chong , Shin Hyungki , Doll Andrin , Kung Hsiang-Hsi , Day Ryan P. , Davidson Bruce A. , Dreiser Jan , Levy Giorgio , Damascelli Andrea , Piamonteze Cinthia , Zou Ke
Published: October 2021

Spin degree of freedom generally plays an important role in unconventional superconductivity. In many of the iron-based compounds, superconductivity is found in close proximity to long-range antiferromagnetic order, whereas monolayer FeSe grown on SrTiO3, with enhanced superconductivity, exhibits no magnetic or nematic ordering. Here we grow monolayer and multilayer FeSe on antiferromagnetic EuTiO3(001) layers, in an effort to introduce a spin polarization in proximity to the superconductivity of FeSe. By X-ray magnetic dichroism, we observe an antiferromagnet–ferromagnet switching on Eu and Ti sites in EuTiO3 driven by the applied magnetic field, with no concomitant spin polarization on the Fe site of FeSe. Transport measurements show enhanced superconductivity of monolayer FeSe on EuTiO3 with a transition temperature of ~30 K. The band structure revealed by photoemission spectroscopy is analogous to that of FeSe/SrTiO3. Our work creates a platform for the interplay of spin and unconventional superconductivity in the two-dimensional limit.
Nematicity in a cuprate superconductor revealed by angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy under uniaxial strain
Authors: Nakata S. , Horio M. , Koshiishi K. , Hagiwara K. , Lin C. , Suzuki M. , Ideta S. , Tanaka K. , Song D. , Yoshida Y. , Eisaki H. , Fujimori A.
Published: October 2021

The nature of the pseudogap and its relationship with superconductivity are one of the central issues of cuprate superconductors. Recently, a possible scenario has been proposed that the pseudogap state is a distinct phase characterized by spontaneous rotational symmetry breaking called “nematicity” based on transport and magnetic susceptibility measurements, where the symmetry breaking was observed below the pseudogap temperature T∗. Here, we report a temperature-dependent ARPES study of nematicity in slightly overdoped Bi1.7Pb0.5Sr1.9CaCu2O8+δ triggered by a uniaxial strain applied along one of the Cu–O bond directions. While the nematicity was enhanced in the pseudogap state as in the previous studies, it was suppressed in the superconducting state. These results indicate that the pseudogap state is characterized by spontaneous rotational symmetry breaking and that the nematicity may compete with superconductivity. Relationship between the nematicity and charge-density waves, both of which are observed in the pseudogap state, is discussed.
Association of maternal history of neonatal death with subsequent neonatal death across 56 low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Li Zhihui , Kapoor Mudit , Kim Rockli , Subramanian S. V.
Published: October 2021

Early identification of high-risk pregnancies can reduce global neonatal mortality rate. Using the most recent Demographic and Health Surveys from 56 low- and middle-income countries, we examined the proportion of mothers with history of neonatal deaths. Logistic regression models were used to assess the association between maternal history of neonatal death and subsequent neonatal mortality. The adjusted models controlled for socioeconomic, child, and pregnancy-related factors. Country-specific analyses were performed to assess heterogeneity in this association across countries. Among the 437,049 live births included in the study, 6910 resulted in neonatal deaths. In general, 22.4% (1549) occurred to mothers with previous history of neonatal death; at the country-level, this proportion ranged from 1.2% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.0, 2.6) in Dominican Republic to 38.1% (95% CI 26.0, 50.1) in Niger. Maternal history of neonatal death was significantly associated with subsequent neonatal death in both the pooled and the subgroup analyses. In the fully adjusted model, history of neonatal death was associated with 2.1 (95% CI 1.9, 2.4) times higher odds of subsequent neonatal mortality in the pooled analysis. We observed large variation in the associations across countries ranging from fully adjusted odds ratio (FAOR) of 0.4 (95% CI 0.0, 4.0) in Dominican Republic to 16.1 (95% CI 3.6, 42.0) in South Africa. Our study suggests that maternal history of neonatal death could be an effective early identifier of high-risk pregnancies in resource-poor countries. However, country-specific contexts must be considered in national policy discussions.
Metastatic and non-metastatic melanoma imaging using Sgc8-c aptamer PTK7-recognizer
Authors: Sicco Estefanía , Mónaco Amy , Fernandez Marcelo , Moreno María , Calzada Victoria , Cerecetto Hugo
Published: October 2021

Melanoma is one of the most aggressive and deadly skin cancers, and although histopathological criteria are used for its prognosis, biomarkers are necessary to identify the different evolution stages. The applications of molecular imaging include the in vivo diagnosis of cancer with probes that recognize the tumor-biomarkers specific expression allowing external image acquisitions and evaluation of the biological process in quali-quantitative ways. Aptamers are oligonucleotides that recognize targets with high affinity and specificity presenting advantages that make them interesting molecular imaging probes. Sgc8-c (DNA-aptamer) selectively recognizes PTK7-receptor overexpressed in various types of tumors. Herein, Sgc8-c was evaluated, for the first time, in a metastatic melanoma model as molecular imaging probe for in vivo diagnostic, as well as in a non-metastatic melanoma model. Firstly, two probes, radio- and fluorescent-probe, were in vitro evaluated verifying the high specific PTK7 recognition and its internalization in tumor cells by the endosomal route. Secondly, in vivo proof of concept was performed in animal tumor models. In addition, they have rapid clearance from blood exhibiting excellent target (tumor)/non-target organ ratios. Furthermore, optimal biodistribution was observed 24 h after probes injections accumulating almost exclusively in the tumor tissue. Sgc8-c is a potential tool for their specific use in the early detection of melanoma.
Coral micro- and macro-morphological skeletal properties in response to life-long acclimatization at CO2 vents in Papua New Guinea
Authors: Prada Fiorella , Brizi Leonardo , Franzellitti Silvia , Mengoli Stefano , Fermani Simona , Polishchuk Iryna , Baraldi Nicola , Ricci Francesco , Palazzo Quinzia , Caroselli Erik , Pokroy Boaz , Giorgini Loris , Dubinsky Zvy , Fantazzini Paola , Falini Giuseppe , Goffredo Stefano , Fabricius Katharina E.
Published: October 2021

This study investigates the effects of long-term exposure to OA on skeletal parameters of four tropical zooxanthellate corals naturally living at CO2 seeps and adjacent control sites from two locations (Dobu and Upa Upasina) in the Papua New Guinea underwater volcanic vent system. The seeps are characterized by seawater pH values ranging from 8.0 to about 7.7. The skeletal porosity of Galaxea fascicularis, Acropora millepora, massive Porites, and Pocillopora damicornis was higher (up to ~ 40%, depending on the species) at the seep sites compared to the control sites. Pocillopora damicornis also showed a decrease of micro-density (up to ~ 7%). Thus, further investigations conducted on this species showed an increase of the volume fraction of the larger pores (up to ~ 7%), a decrease of the intraskeletal organic matrix content (up to ~ 15%), and an increase of the intraskeletal water content (up to ~ 59%) at the seep sites. The organic matrix related strain and crystallite size did not vary between seep and control sites. This multi-species study showed a common phenotypic response among different zooxanthellate corals subjected to the same environmental pressures, leading to the development of a more porous skeletal phenotype under OA.
Retrieving zinc concentrations in topsoil with reflectance spectroscopy at Opencast Coal Mine sites
Authors: Guo Bin , Zhang Bo , Su Yi , Zhang Dingming , Wang Yan , Bian Yi , Suo Liang , Guo Xianan , Bai Haorui
Published: October 2021

Heavy metals contaminations in mining areas aroused wide concerns globally. Efficient evaluation of its pollution status is a basis for further soil reclamation. Visible and near–infrared reflectance (Vis–NIR) spectroscopy has been diffusely used for retrieving heavy metals concentrations. However, the reliability and feasibility of calibrated models were still doubtful. The present study estimated zinc (Zn) concentrations via the random forest (RF) and partial least squares regression (PLSR) using ground in-situ Zn concentrations as well as soil spectral reflectance at an Opencast Coal Mine of Ordos, China in February 2020. The coefficient of determination (R2), root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and the ratio of performance to deviation (RPD) were selected to assess the robustness of the methods in estimating Zn contents. Moreover, the characteristic bands were chosen by Pearson correlation analysis and Boruta Algorithm. Finally, the comparison between RF and PLSR combined with eight spectral reflectance transformation methods was conducted for four concentration groups to determine the optimal model. The results indicated that: (1) Zn contents represented a skewed distribution (coefficient of variation (CV) = 33%); (2) the spectral reflectance tended to decrease with the increase of Zn contents during 580–1850 nm based on Savitzky–Golay smoothing (SG); (3) the continuous wavelet transform (CWT) demonstrated higher effectiveness than other spectral reflectance transformation methods in enhancing spectral responses, the R2 between Zn contents and the soil spectral reflectance achieved the highest (R2 = 0.71) by using CWT; (4) the RF combined with CWT exhibited the best performance than other methods in the current study (R2 = 0.97, RPD = 3.39, RMSE = 1.05 mg kg−1, MAE = 0.79 mg kg−1). The current study supplied a scientific scheme and theoretical support for predicting heavy metals concentrations via the Vis–NIR spectral method in possible contaminated areas such as coal mines and metallic mineral deposit areas.
Improved estimates of 222 nm far-UVC susceptibility for aerosolized human coronavirus via a validated high-fidelity coupled radiation-CFD code
Authors: Buchan Andrew G. , Yang Liang , Welch David , Brenner David J. , Atkinson Kirk D.
Published: October 2021

Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 by aerosols has played a significant role in the rapid spread of COVID-19 across the globe. Indoor environments with inadequate ventilation pose a serious infection risk. Whilst vaccines suppress transmission, they are not 100% effective and the risk from variants and new viruses always remains. Consequently, many efforts have focused on ways to disinfect air. One such method involves use of minimally hazardous 222 nm far-UVC light. Whilst a small number of controlled experimental studies have been conducted, determining the efficacy of this approach is difficult because chamber or room geometry, and the air flow within them, influences both far-UVC illumination and aerosol dwell times. Fortunately, computational multiphysics modelling allows the inadequacy of dose-averaged assessment of viral inactivation to be overcome in these complex situations. This article presents the first validation of the WYVERN radiation-CFD code for far-UVC air-disinfection against survival fraction measurements, and the first measurement-informed modelling approach to estimating far-UVC susceptibility of viruses in air. As well as demonstrating the reliability of the code, at circa 70% higher, our findings indicate that aerosolized human coronaviruses are significantly more susceptible to far-UVC than previously thought.
Association between Human Papillomavirus and Chlamydia trachomatis genital infections in male partners of infertile couples
Authors: Olivera Carolina , Mosmann Jessica P. , Paira Daniela A. , Molina Rosa I. , Tissera Andrea D. , Motrich Rubén D. , Cuffini Cecilia G. , Rivero Virginia E.
Published: October 2021

The prevalence of HPV infection and its relationship with other sexually transmitted infections was analyzed in a cohort of 117 male partners of infertile couples from Cordoba, Argentina. Semen samples and urethral swabs were obtained and the infection with HPV, Chlamydia trachomatis, HSV1, HSV2, Mycoplasma hominis and Ureaplasma urealyticum was analyzed. A prevalence of HPV infection of 27.4% was found. Interestingly, infections by exclusively low risk HPV genotypes or high/intermediate risk HPV genotypes were present in 64.5% and 22.6% of cases, respectively. Low risk-HPV6 was the most frequently detected genotype. Remarkably, HPV and C. trachomatis infections were significantly associated to each other (OR: 11.55, 95% CI 1.14–117.06). No significant differences in sperm quality were found between HPV-positive and HPV-negative patients indicating that HPV male urogenital infection does not impair sperm quality. Our results show a high prevalence of HPV urogenital infection among male partners of infertile couples, and that HPV and C. trachomatis infections are reciprocal risk factors of their co-infection. Moreover, our results suggest that men constitute a reservoir for continued transmission of C. trachomatis and HPV to women highlighting the need for routine screening for these two pathogens in male partners of infertile couples.
High-resolution high-throughput thermal neutron tomographic imaging of fossiliferous cave breccias from Sumatra
Authors: Smith Holly E. , Bevitt Joseph J. , Zaim Jahdi , Rizal Yan , Aswan  , Puspaningrum Mika Rizki , Trihascaryo Agus , Price Gilbert J. , Webb Gregory E. , Louys Julien
Published: October 2021

We employ high-throughput thermal-neutron tomographic imaging to visualise internal diagnostic features of dense fossiliferous breccia from three Pleistocene cave localities in Sumatra, Indonesia. We demonstrate that these seemingly homogeneous breccias are an excellent source of data to aid in determining taphonomic and depositional histories of complex depositional sites such as tropical caves. X-ray Computed Tomographic (CT) imaging is gaining importance amongst palaeontologists as a non-destructive approach to studying fossil remains. Traditional methods of fossil preparation risk damage to the specimen and may destroy contextual evidence in the surrounding matrix. CT imaging can reveal the internal composition and structure of fossils contained within consolidated sediment/rock matrices prior to any destructive mechanical or chemical preparation. Neutron computed tomography (NCT) provides an alternative contrast to X-rays, and in some circumstances, is capable of discerning denser matrices impenetrable to or yielding no contrast with CT imaging. High-throughput neutron imaging reduces neutron fluence during scanning which means there is less residual neutron-induced radioactivation in geological samples; allowing for earlier subsequent analyses. However, this approach remains unutilised in palaeontology, archaeology or geological surveys. Results suggest that the primary agents in the formation of the breccias and concentration of incorporated vertebrate remains are several rapid depositional phases of water and sediment gravity flow. This study highlights the potential for future analyses of breccia deposits in palaeontological studies in caves around the world.
Research on magnetic bead motion characteristics based on magnetic beads preset technology
Authors: Li Zhao , Zu Xiangyang , Du Zhe , Hu Zhigang
Published: October 2021

In order to improve the detection efficiency and accuracy of microfluidic chip, a magnetic beads preset technology were designed by using double permanent magnets as external magnetic field and the motion characteristics of preset magnetic beads were studied. The control principle of magnetic beads preset technology was introduced in detail, and the control structure was designed. The coupled field characteristics for magnetic beads in microchannels were analyzed, and the motion models of magnetic beads were established based on the magnetic beads preset technology, including capture motion and mixing motion. The relationship between the magnetic field force and the flow velocity for capturing magnetic bead, and the mixing time under the influence of flow field and magnetic field were derived. The magnetic beads preset technology effect was verified by experiments and numerical simulations were developed to analyze the influence of aspect ratio of permanent magnet on magnetic field. The study showed that the accuracy and efficiency of the magnetic bead control in the microchannel could be better realized by the magnetic beads preset technology. The derivation of the magnetic bead motion model can understand the motion characteristics of the magnetic bead more clearly, facilitate accurate control of the magnetic bead, and improve the success rate of the microfluidic detection.
Uncertainty analysis of model inputs in riverine water temperature simulations
Authors: Abdi Babak , Bozorg-Haddad Omid , Chu Xuefeng
Published: October 2021

Simulation models are often affected by uncertainties that impress the modeling results. One of the important types of uncertainties is associated with the model input data. The main objective of this study is to investigate the uncertainties of inputs of the Heat-Flux (HFLUX) model. To do so, the Shuffled Complex Evolution Metropolis Uncertainty Algorithm (SCEM-UA), a Monte Carlo Markov Chain (MCMC) based method, is employed for the first time to assess the uncertainties of model inputs in riverine water temperature simulations. The performance of the SCEM-UA algorithm is further evaluated. In the application, the histograms of the selected inputs of the HFLUX model including the stream width, stream depth, percentage of shade, and streamflow were created and their uncertainties were analyzed. Comparison of the observed data and the simulations demonstrated the capability of the SCEM-UA algorithm in the assessment of the uncertainties associated with the model input data (the maximum relative error was 15%).
Aspiration-mediated hydrogel micropatterning using rail-based open microfluidic devices for high-throughput 3D cell culture
Authors: Park Dohyun , Lee Jungseub , Lee Younggyun , Son Kyungmin , Choi Jin Woo , Jeang William J. , Choi Hyeri , Hwang Yunchan , Kim Ho-Young , Jeon Noo Li
Published: October 2021

Microfluidics offers promising methods for aligning cells in physiologically relevant configurations to recapitulate human organ functionality. Specifically, microstructures within microfluidic devices facilitate 3D cell culture by guiding hydrogel precursors containing cells. Conventional approaches utilize capillary forces of hydrogel precursors to guide fluid flow into desired areas of high wettability. These methods, however, require complicated fabrication processes and subtle loading protocols, thus limiting device throughput and experimental yield. Here, we present a swift and robust hydrogel patterning technique for 3D cell culture, where preloaded hydrogel solution in a microfluidic device is aspirated while only leaving a portion of the solution in desired channels. The device is designed such that differing critical capillary pressure conditions are established over the interfaces of the loaded hydrogel solution, which leads to controlled removal of the solution during aspiration. A proposed theoretical model of capillary pressure conditions provides physical insights to inform generalized design rules for device structures. We demonstrate formation of multiple, discontinuous hollow channels with a single aspiration. Then we test vasculogenic capacity of various cell types using a microfluidic device obtained by our technique to illustrate its capabilities as a viable micro-manufacturing scheme for high-throughput cellular co-culture.
Digital signatures for early traumatic brain injury outcome prediction in the intensive care unit
Authors: Palepu Anil K. , Murali Aditya , Ballard Jenna L. , Li Robert , Ramesh Samiksha , Nguyen Hieu , Kim Hanbiehn , Sarma Sridevi , Suarez Jose I. , Stevens Robert D.
Published: October 2021

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading neurological cause of death and disability across the world. Early characterization of TBI severity could provide a window for therapeutic intervention and contribute to improved outcome. We hypothesized that granular electronic health record data available in the first 24 h following admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) can be used to differentiate outcomes at discharge. Working from two ICU datasets we focused on patients with a primary admission diagnosis of TBI whose length of stay in ICU was ≥ 24 h (N = 1689 and 127). Features derived from clinical, laboratory, medication, and physiological time series data in the first 24 h after ICU admission were used to train elastic-net regularized Generalized Linear Models for the prediction of mortality and neurological function at ICU discharge. Model discrimination, determined by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) analysis, was 0.903 and 0.874 for mortality and neurological function, respectively. Model performance was successfully validated in an external dataset (AUC 0.958 and 0.878 for mortality and neurological function, respectively). These results demonstrate that computational analysis of data routinely collected in the first 24 h after admission accurately and reliably predict discharge outcomes in ICU stratum TBI patients.
Irbesartan, an angiotensin II type 1 receptor blocker, inhibits colitis-associated tumourigenesis by blocking the MCP-1/CCR2 pathway
Authors: Hachiya Kensuke , Masuya Masahiro , Kuroda Naoki , Yoneda Misao , Tsuboi Junya , Nagaharu Keiki , Nishimura Komei , Shiotani Takuya , Ohishi Kohshi , Tawara Isao , Katayama Naoyuki
Published: October 2021

The introduction of anti-inflammatory therapies has enabled substantial improvement of disease activity in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). However, IBD can lead to serious complications such as intestinal fibrosis and colorectal cancer. Therefore, novel therapies reducing the development of these complications are needed. Angiotensin II (Ang II) promotes tissue inflammation by stimulating the production of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) or proinflammatory cytokines. It plays a pivotal role in IBD progression. Although blockade of Ang II has been reported to ameliorate experimental colitis and reduce colorectal cancer risk, the cellular and molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. Our previous work showed that irbesartan, an Ang II type 1 receptor blocker, reduced the number of C–C chemokine receptor 2-positive (CCR2+) monocytic cells in the inflamed pancreas. This study aimed to investigate the possible antifibrotic and antitumour effects of irbesartan using the azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulphate mouse model. Irbesartan suppressed MCP-1 production and the accumulation of Ly6C+CCR2+ monocytes and fibrocytes in the inflamed colon, downregulated the expression of type 1 collagen and matrix metalloproteinase 9 and inhibited the development of intestinal fibrosis and tumours. Our observations suggest that blocking the MCP-1/CCR2 pathway using irbesartan might be beneficial in preventing colitis-associated colon tumours.