bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Learning dilation through Lawang Sewu context
Authors: Nursyahidah F , Albab I U , Saputro B A
Published: August 2021

Geometry understanding is a significant aspect of studying geometric transformation. Besides, geometry is the basis for most mathematical and other topics. However, geometry is nonetheless a challenging material for students, particularly the dilations of geometric transformation. This case may be due to a lack of activity requiring students to relate geometrical principles to their environment. Therefore, this study aims to establish a learning trajectory using theLawang Sewuhistorical building as the context to help students understand the idea of dilation. The learning approach used in this study was Realistic Mathematics Education, named PMRI in the Indonesian edition. The subject of the study is the ninth-grade students at one of the junior high school in Semarang, involving six students who were selected as diverse students. The methodology applied consists of three stages of design research: preliminary design, design experiment, and retrospective analysis. Additionally, this study reveals only the findings of the design experiment and the pilot experiment in particular. Students’ learning activities involve three activities, such as identifying the elements ofLawang Sewuthat represent dilations through interactive video, determining the result of dilations and scale factor, and solving problems of dilations. Studies have shown that using theLawang Sewuhistorical building context could assist students in improving their comprehending of the dilation concept. Furthermore, this study could be an inspiration to explore another local wisdom that can be a context in learning mathematical concept.
Analyzing students’ achievement and attitude through the Frankards context in learning probability
Authors: Fran F A
Published: August 2021

In learning abstract mathematical concepts such as probability, students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills are enhanced. However, learning this concept through abstraction would be a great challenge to students who are struggling in mathematics. Hence, an instructional support would be a great help. This study analysed the effect of using Frankards, an instructional material manipulative in teaching probability, on students’ achievement and attitude. Specifically, it aimed to determine the students’ level of achievement, students’ level of attitude, towards mathematics and the relationship between achievement and attitude. Quasi-Experimental Pretest-Posttest Control Group Design and purposive sampling were used where respondents were grouped into two: experimental group (taught with Frankards) and control group (taught without Frankards). A multiple choice pretest and posttest were administered to both groups to determine the difference between students’ achievement. Guce and Talen’s Scale on Attitude Towards Mathematics (SATM) and a multiple-choice achievement test were utilized as research instruments. The results showed that there was a significant difference between the experimental and control group in terms of achievement where students taught with Frankards outperformed the control group. It was also found that there was no significant difference between the experimental and control groups in terms of attitude. Moreover, the relationship between achievement and attitude (in terms of student engagement and liking mathematics) was found. The utilization of Frankards is recommended in teaching probability.
Students’ higher-order thinking skills in discrete mathematics during covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Payadnya I P A A , Wibawa K A
Published: August 2021

Mathematics learning in the era of 4.0 must be oriented to the aspects of higher-order thinking skills that important for any mathematics subject including discrete mathematics. The online learning caused Covid-19 pandemic influence many aspects of mathematics learning and skills. The purpose of this study was to analyse students’ higher-order thinking skills in the discrete mathematics subject during COVID-19 Pandemic using Two-Tier Multiple Choice (TTMC) instrument. This research was conducted from March to May 2020. Subjects in this study were 11 students of class IIB of Mathematics Education Study Program Universitas Mahasaraswati Denpasar. This study used descriptive analysis techniques. Data collected through tests, interviews, observations, and documentation. The results of the data analysis showed that the higher-order thinking skills percentage of students with very low categories of 18.18%, low 36.36% and moderate 45.45%. Online learning due to COVID-19 Pandemic also causes the difficulties for students to do group discussion as well as the decrease in student motivation. In contrast, students are more familiar with discrete mathematics concepts in their environment such as graph concepts and can use internet facilities in learning more effectively. Some solutions for the problems occurred are: 1) Using interactive learning, 2) Using Project-Based learning (PBL), 3) Discussing current trends in learning, 4) Demonstrating assertiveness, and establishing learning rules, and 5) Supporting students to get better internet facilities.
Students’ statistical literacy through lab school car model in STEM activity
Authors: Purwadi I M A
Published: August 2021

Indonesia’s education reformation had been focused on the mastering of 21st-century skills to increase global competitiveness and one of them is application of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education. Nowadays, many studies claimed that the implementation of STEM has a positive impact on the development of these skills, such as statistical literacy. However, the students’ statistical literacy in Indonesia still unsatisfied. Thus, this research was aimed at describing the implementation result of STEM activity by using the lab school car model for understanding the concept of data representation and interpretation namely statistical literacy. Students utilized used bottles to design the fastest and the most stable car. They experimented by operating their car then measured the time taken and the distance. After collecting the data, students displayed into statistical information, interpreted, and concluded. Students utilized technology for measuring and doing calculation as well as applying the concept of velocity, friction, and Newton’s laws to get the best design. This qualitative research conducted in one of Junior High School in Bali and also in Yogyakarta. It involved 51 students from both schools in the academic year 2019/2020. The data was collected by observation, documentation, in-depth interview, and practical test. The result indicates that the implementation of STEM leaning by using lab school car model can improve the students’ conceptual understanding of data representation and interpretation. In addition, it also improves the students’ creativity, motivation, problems solving ability, and communicate their understanding better.
The Effects of a professional development on teachers’ self-efficacy in promoting thinking and problem-solving skills
Authors: Tongchai A
Published: August 2021

People’s beliefs in their capabilities to complete tasks, achieve goals or produce desirable outcomes is known as self-efficacy. Teachers’ self-efficacy is crucial in terms of influencing their effective teaching and resulting in student achievement. This paper aimed to report the effects of a professional development program on teachers’ self-efficacy toward promoting student’s thinking and problem-solving skills. The training program aimed to support Science, Mathematics and Technology teachers. Ninety-five in-service teachers had participated in this training program. The participating teachers completed a Google form of the five-point Likert scale of the self-efficacy survey which mainly focused on teachers’ beliefs in their understanding of thinking and problem-solving and self-efficacy in teaching thinking and problem-solving. The survey was first given to the participating teachers at the beginning of the workshop. At the end of the training program, three months later, the participating teachers had to present teaching experiences. The survey was then given to the participating teachers to complete after they presented their teaching experiences. The data completed via google form were analyzed and reported. The results showed that teachers’ self-efficacy had significantly improved after attending the training program. However, teachers with different teaching experiences had differently improved their self-efficacy in teaching thinking and problem-solving. Interestingly, education degrees of teachers did not have an effect on efficacy in teaching student’s thinking and problem-solving. These findings suggested that professional development programs should be carefully designed in order to accommodate different participants.
Entering 21st century skills: teacher and junior high school student’s perspective about science learning media’ scope
Authors: Tapilouw M C , Dewi L , Hastuti S P
Published: August 2021

School systems and educators face challenges to prepare student with 21st Century Skill. Teachers that equipped with innovated teaching models, media and learning tools also play a crucial role in helping students fulfilled 21st century skills. The main purpose of this study is gathering student’s perspective in science learning media. This study is a descriptive research that was done in September – November 2019. The subject of this study are science teacher and Junior High School student (grade 7, 8 and 9) in private Junior High School in Salatiga. The result showed that most student know about learning media. For student, learning media help them to understand the science matter especially for some difficult matter such as classification of living things, human digestive system, and human skeletal and muscular system. Students need learning media as a whole package of science education. Visual and audio visual media are the form of learning media that still used in science learning. Specifically, student expect that multimedia can be used in some science matter.
Analogy Educational Comics to Overcome Students’ Misconception on Simple Electricity Circuit Material
Authors: Hesti R
Published: August 2021

Distance learning during this pandemic makes students more often access the internet for learning purposes. The habit of copying and pasting sources from the internet without confirming the correctness of the information obtained causes misconceptions in students. In the analogy approach, there is a comparison between two concepts that can expand students’ thinking patterns. While comics contain explanations of the material outlined in the form of pictorial stories that will attract the attention of the readers. By applying an analogy approach in educational comics that is packaged in the concept of changing conceptions, it is hoped that it will direct analogical reasoning and activate deeper understanding so that it can form scientific conceptions in students. The purpose of this study was to investigate the usefulness of educational comics by analogy in overcoming student misconceptions on simple electrical circuit material. The sample of this study was 30 students at one of the public Islamic junior high school in South Jakarta who were taken purposively. The research method used is a pre-experimental method and the design used is a one-shot case study. Students who were used as samples had identified misconceptions in the electrical circuit material using a Simple Electrical Circuit Diagnostic Test (SECDT). The results of this study found that analogy educational comics can replace students’ misconceptions with scientific truths and it was found that 63% were aware of their misconceptions, gained new knowledge and believed in the truth of scientific explanations presented in the comics.
The implementation of discovery learning using personal site in physics online classroom
Authors: Sarah L L
Published: August 2021

This study aim to describe the implementation of discovery learning using personal site in online physics classroom. Learning process still could not conducted by face to face at school instead students and teachers have to conduct learning process by online learning. There are many platform and resources for online learning, but teachers need to design these resources to make a meaningful learning for students. An alternative approach or learning model as a meaningful learning is discovery learning. Personal sites was designed according to discovery learning step model in rubber, spring and Hooke’s law concepts. Personal teacher’s site contain some videos, text, simulation and guide of data collecting depend on the needs of discovery environment. In addition, students also used personal sites to make a report (e-portfolio) about the result of their learning process, made generalization, work in a group and presenting. Students show their abilities in independent investigation, data collecting and making a report using personal site. Based on normalized gain score 0,63, there is increasing students’ learning outcome with learning effectivity in average category. In addition, percentage of students who complete all assignments on time 80% mean that discovery learning using personal site has good criteria for students’ interaction with learning material. These indicates that discovery learning is an alternative method in online physics classroom although there are many things need to improve and develop such as animation or simulation and guided experiments.
A minimal robophysical model of quadriflagellate self-propulsion
Authors: Diaz Kelimar , Robinson Tommie L , Aydin Yasemin Ozkan , Aydin Enes , Goldman Daniel I , Wan Kirsty Y
Published: August 2021

Locomotion at the microscale is remarkably sophisticated. Microorganisms have evolved diverse strategies to move within highly viscous environments, using deformable, propulsion-generating appendages such as cilia and flagella to drive helical or undulatory motion. In single-celled algae, these appendages can be arranged in different ways around an approximately 10 μm long cell body, and coordinated in distinct temporal patterns. Inspired by the observation that some quadriflagellates (bearing four flagella) have an outwardly similar morphology and flagellar beat pattern, yet swim at different speeds, this study seeks to determine whether variations in swimming performance could arise solely from differences in swimming gait. Robotics approaches are particularly suited to such investigations, where the phase relationships between appendages can be readily manipulated. Here, we developed autonomous, algae-inspired robophysical models that can self-propel in a viscous fluid. These macroscopic robots (length and width = 8.5 cm, height = 2 cm) have four independently actuated ‘flagella’ (length = 13 cm) that oscillate under low-Reynolds number conditions (Re

∼
O

(

1

0

−
1

)

). We tested the swimming performance of these robot models with appendages arranged two distinct configurations, and coordinated in three distinct gaits. The gaits, namely the pronk, the trot, and the gallop, correspond to gaits adopted by distinct microalgal species. When the appendages are inserted perpendicularly around a central ‘body’, the robot achieved a net performance of 0.15–0.63 body lengths per cycle, with the trot gait being the fastest. Robotic swimming performance was found to be comparable to that of the algal microswimmers across all gaits. By creating a minimal robot that can successfully reproduce cilia-inspired drag-based swimming, our work paves the way for the design of next-generation devices that have the capacity to autonomously navigate aqueous environments.
Solution to the 1D Stefan problem using the unified transform method
Authors: T Dokoza , Plümacher D , Smuda M , Jegust C , Oberlack M
Published: August 2021

In this paper the one-dimensional two-phase Stefan problem is studied analytically leading to a system of non-linear Volterra-integral-equations describing the heat distribution in each phase. For this the unified transform method has been employed which provides a method via a global relation, by which these problems can be solved using integral representations. To do this, the underlying partial differential equation is rewritten into a certain divergence form, which enables to treat the boundary values as part of the integrals. Classical analytical methods fail in the case of the Stefan problem due to the moving interface. From the resulting non-linear integro-differential equations the one for the position of the phase change can be solved in a first step. This is done numerically using a fix-point iteration and spline interpolation. Once obtained, the temperature distribution in both phases is generated from their integral representation.
Is in vivo sensing in a total hip replacement a possibility? A review on past systems and future challenges
Authors: Vickers O G , Culmer P R , Isaac G H , Kay R W , Shuttleworth M P , Board T , Williams S
Published: August 2021

Surgery to implant a total hip replacement (THR) is very successful in reducing pain and restoring function. This procedure has become more prevalent, and projections estimate further increases in demand. However, complications can arise, and current diagnostic techniques often fail to expose underlying issues before they result in a catastrophic failure that requires revision surgery. An instrumented implant, with embedded sensors capable of real time condition monitoring, would be an attractive proposition to incorporate within a THR. Continued advances in the performance and miniaturisation of electronic components, embedded systems, sensing and wireless communications have given the tools and resources medical device manufacturers need to innovate in the field of implantable medical devices. Smart implants are already being widely used in healthcare including pacemakers, cochlear implants, glucose monitors and insulin pumps however, a widely used smart THR has not yet been realised. Since the implantation of the first instrumented hip implant in the 1960s there have been several in vitro studies monitoring levels of implant loosening. Additionally, significant research has been conducted using instrumented THRs to perform in vivo measurement of biomechanical metrics, including force and moments. To date less than 100 patients have successfully received an instrumented implant. The results of these studies have aided researchers, designers and surgeons in wider research projects, however, the motivation behind the work was to provide discrete biomechanical data sets and not provide real-time condition monitoring of an implants performance or highlight early indications for revision surgery. If in vivo sensing within a THR is to be achieved and adopted in regular clinical practice then the following challenges need to be addressed: choice of the sensing method, biocompatibility and integration within the implant, power supply, communication, and regulatory considerations.
Oxalate nephropathy: a review
Authors: Rosenstock Jordan L , Joab Tatyana M J , DeVita Maria V , Yang Yihe , Sharma Purva D , Bijol Vanesa
Published: August 2021

This review describes the clinical and pathological features of oxalate nephropathy (ON), defined as a syndrome of decreased renal function associated with deposition of calcium oxalate crystals in kidney tubules. We review the different causes of hyperoxaluria, including primary hyperoxaluria, enteric hyperoxaluria and ingestion-related hyperoxaluria. Recent case series of biopsy-proven ON are reviewed in detail, as well as the implications of these series. The possibility of antibiotic use predisposing to ON is discussed. Therapies for hyperoxaluria and ON are reviewed with an emphasis on newer treatments available and in development. Promising research avenues to explore in this area are discussed.
Water deprivation compromises maternal physiology and reproductive success in a cold and wet adapted snake Vipera berus
Authors: Dezetter Mathias , Le Galliard Jean François , Guiller Gaëtan , Guillon Michaël , Leroux-Coyau Mathieu , Meylan Sandrine , Brischoux François , Angelier Fréderic , Lourdais Olivier
Published: August 2021

Droughts are becoming more intense and frequent with climate change. These extreme weather events can lead to mass mortality and reproduction failure, and therefore cause population declines. Understanding how the reproductive physiology of organisms is affected by water shortages will help clarify whether females can adjust their reproductive strategy to dry conditions or may fail to reproduce and survive. In this study, we investigated the consequences of a short period of water deprivation (2 weeks) during early pregnancy on the physiology and behaviour of a cold- and wet-adapted ectotherm (Vipera berus). We also examined water allocation to developing embryos and embryonic survival. Water-deprived females exhibited significant dehydration, physiological stress and loss of muscle mass. These effects of water deprivation on water balance and muscle loss were correlated with the number of developing embryos. While water-deprived females maintained water transfer to embryos at the expense of their own maintenance, water deprivation also led to embryonic mortality. Overall, water deprivation amplifies the reproductive costs of water allocation to support embryonic development. The deleterious impacts of water deprivation on female current reproductive performance and on potential survival and future reproduction could lead to severe population declines in this species.
Integrative analysis of microbiome and metabolome in rats with Gest-Aid Plus Oral Liquid supplementation reveals mechanism of its healthcare function
Authors: Cheng Min , Sun Yuanfang , Wang Leqi , Tan Lirong , Jin Huizi , Yan Shikai , Li Shasha , Xiao Xue
Published: August 2021

Objective

This study aimed to elucidate the possible mechanism of Gest-Aid Plus Oral Liquid (GAP) on healthcare function.

Method

Ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry-based metabolomics and 16S rDNA sequencing of gut microbiota were performed on serum and fecal samples of GAP and control rats. Additionally, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and inflammatory cytokines in fecal samples were determined through gas chromatography–mass spectrometry and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits.

Result

Metabolomics discovered 41 metabolites, which mainly involved amino acid metabolism, lipid metabolism, coenzyme factors, and vitamin metabolism. Administration of GAP increased abundance of Prevotella_9, Alloprevotella, Blautia, Phascolarctobacterium, Parabacteroides, and Fusicatenibacter, and six SCFAs were increased in the GAP group. Measurement of inflammatory cytokines showed that GAP had an anti-inflammatory effect in rats.

Conclusion

Administration of GAP greatly affects the aspartate metabolism and microecology of rats, enhances intestinal motility and gut barrier integrity and anti-inflammation. These findings not only have possible implications for further application of GAP, but also provide a link between the gut microbiome, SCFAs, inflammation and serum metabolites in rats.
A novel approach for estimating growth and mortality of fish larvae
Authors: Hinchliffe Charles , Pepin Pierre , Suthers Iain M , Falster Daniel S
Published: August 2021

Accurate estimates of growth and mortality are needed to understand drivers of production and cohort success. Existing methods for estimating mortality rates, such as catch-curves, require large sample sizes, as they work by grouping individuals into age-bins to determine a frequency distribution. Yet, sampling enough larvae is often not possible at fine scales within the constraints of research projects, due to low density of larvae in pelagic environments. Here, we develop a novel method to simultaneously estimate growth and mortality rates of fish larvae as a continuous function of size using theory of size-structured populations, eliminating the need to group data into age-bins. We compare the effectiveness of our model to existing methods by generating data from a known distribution. This comparison demonstrates that while all models recover correct parameter values under ideal circumstances, our new method performs better than existing methods when sample sizes are low. Additionally, our method can accommodate non-linear growth and mortality functions, while also allowing growth and mortality to vary as functions of environmental co-variates. This increased accuracy and flexibility of our method should improve our ability to relate variability in larval production to environmental fluctuations at finer spatial scales.
Extended set of solutions of a bounded finite-time stabilization problem via the controllability function
Authors: Choque-Rivero A E
Published: August 2021

For the two-dimensional canonical system, an extended set of bounded finite-time stabilizing positional controls is proposed. For the construction of such controls, which depend on a certain parameter, the Korobov’s controllability function method is used. Such an extension is based on the enlarging of the interval of the mentioned parameter, as well as the use of the non-uniqueness of the controllability function for some regions of the phase space ${\mathbb R}^2.$ Additionally, we characterize a region of initial conditions $x^0$ on ${\mathbb R}^2$ of the given system for which the time of motion from $x^0$ to the origin is less than the value of the controllability function.
Characterization of recombinant murine GDE4 and GDE7, enzymes producing lysophosphatidic acid and/or cyclic phosphatidic acid
Authors: Tserendavga Binderiya , Ohshima Noriyasu , Fujita Chiaki , Yuzawa Koji , Ohshima Mari , Yanaka Noriyuki , Minamishima Yoji Andrew , Izumi Takashi
Published: August 2021

GDE4 and GDE7 are membrane-bound enzymes that exhibit lysophospholipase D activities. We found that GDE7 produced not only lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) but also cyclic phosphatidic acid (cPA) from lysophospholipids by a transphosphatidylation reaction. In contrast, GDE4 produced only LPA. The analysis of substrate specificity showed that 1-alkyl-lysophosphospholipids were preferred substrates for both enzymes rather than 1-alkyl-lysophospholipids and 1-alkenyl-lysophospholipids. Among the various lysophospholipids with different polar head groups that were tested, lysophosphatidylglycerol and lysophosphatidylserine were preferred substrates for GDE4 and GDE7, respectively. The detailed analysis of the dependency of the enzyme activities of GDE4 and GDE7 on divalent cations suggested multiple divalent cations were bound in the active sites of both enzymes. Taken together, these results suggest the possibility that GDE7 functions as a cPA-producing enzyme in the body.
Fracture analysis for materials by a stable generalized/extended finite element method
Authors: Jia H G , Zhao Y M , Nie Y F , Li S Q
Published: August 2021

In this paper, a method is proposed for extracting fracture parameters in isotropic material cracking via a stable generalized/extended finite element method. The numerical results of the stress intensity factors and scaled condition number of the system matrix are presented and compared with different enrichment schemes or those reported in related references. The good agreement and convergence of the results obtained by the developed method with those obtained by other solutions or enrichment schemes proves the applicability of the proposed approach and confirms its capability of efficiently extracting fracture parameters in isotropic materials.
Pb/Bi heterostructure as a versatile platform to realize topological superconductivity
Authors: Watanabe Ikuko , Souma Seigo , Nakayama Kosuke , Sugawara Katsuaki , Trang Chi Xuan , Segawa Kouji , Yamauchi Kunihiko , Oguchi Tamio , Takahashi Takashi , Sato Takafumi
Published: August 2021

Realization of topological superconductors (TSCs) hosting Majorana fermions is an exciting challenge in materials science. Majorana fermions are predicted to emerge at vortex cores of two-dimensional (2D) TSCs and at both ends of one-dimensional (1D) TSCs; these two types of TSCs have been explored independently in different materials. Here, a system which has a potential to access both 1D and 2D TSCs in a single platform, Pb(111)/Bi(111) heterostructure, is proposed. One to twenty bilayers (BLs) of Bi(111) ultra-thin films are epitaxially fabricated on TlBiSe$_2$, and an intriguing evolution of electronic states upon variation of Bi-layer thickness is revealed by angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy. The metallic quantum-well states at 1–2BLs are found to turn into the Rashba states at 5–20BLs, via the semiconducting states at 3BL. Fabrication of a Pb(111) film on 20BL Bi(111) enables observation of the proximity-induced superconductivity in Bi(111) as evident from a 1 meV energy gap at 5 K; these energy and temperature scales are considerably larger than those of Rashba superconductors. The Pb/Bi heterostructure serves as a versatile platform to study the interplay among proximity-induced superconductivity, band structure, and topology.
Complete Genome Sequence Data of Four Burkholderia glumae Strains Isolated from Rice Fields in the United States
Authors: Lee Hyun-Hee , Lelis Tiago , Ontoy John , Bruno Jobelle , Ham Jong Hyun , Seo Young-Su
Published: August 2021

Bacterial panicle blight caused by Burkholderia glumae is a major disease in rice production worldwide. Currently, only a few whole-genome sequences of B. glumae strains isolated in the United States are available. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of four B. glumae strains, including three virulent strains (336gr-1, 411gr-6, and 957856-41-c) and the nonpathogenic strain B. glumae 257sh-1, which were isolated from rice fields in Louisiana (336gr-1, 957856-41-c, and 257sh-1) and Arkansas (411gr-6). The whole-genome sequence data of B. glumae strains will contribute to investigations of the molecular mechanism underlying bacterial pathogenicity and virulence to rice plants.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Genome Resource of Ancylobacter pratisalsi E130T: A Novel Plant-Growth-Promoting Bacterium Isolated from the Rhizosphere
Authors: Nie Wenhan , Zheng Xin , Wang Sai , Ahmad Iftikhar , Zhu Bo
Published: August 2021

Ancylobacter pratisalsi sp. nov. strain E130T is a Gram-negative, nonmotile, aerobic, and rod-shaped bacterium that was recently isolated from the rhizosphere of Plantago winteri Wirtg. from a natural salt meadow. This strain was described as novel species in genus Ancylobacter; however, information about its complete genome has yet not been reported. In this study, its genome was completely sequenced by PacBio SMRT cell platform, analyzed, and compared with other selected complete genome sequences of Ancylobacter to elucidate its potential plant growth promotion abilities. The genomic analysis revealed that the genome of strain E130T consists of one circular DNA chromosome of 4,618,530 bp with a GC content of 66% and one plasmid of 159,741 bp with a GC content of 64.13%. The entire genome contains 4,322 predicted coding genes, 49 transfer RNAs, and 6 ribosomal RNA genes. Genome analysis identified a siderophore natural product biosynthesis cluster, which produces fuscachelin. Knockout of several key genes in this cluster significantly reduces the plant-growth-promotion ability of the strain E130T. In addition to plant-growth promotion, the strain E130T can grow well on 5% NaCl (wt/vol), indicating that this strain is a potential bioresource for successful production of economic crops in alkaline soil.
Frailty Assessment and Prehabilitation Before Complex Spine Surgery in Patients With Degenerative Spine Disease: A Narrative Review
Authors: Mohamed Basma , Ramachandran Ramani , Rabai Ferenc , Price Catherine C. , Polifka Adam , Hoh Daniel , Seubert Christoph N.
Published: August 2021

Degenerative spine disease increases in prevalence and may become debilitating as people age. Complex spine surgery may offer relief but becomes riskier with age. Efforts to lessen the physiological impact of surgery through minimally invasive techniques and enhanced recovery programs mitigate risk only after the decision for surgery. Frailty assessments outperform traditional tools of perioperative risk stratification. The extent of frailty predicts complications after spine surgery such as reoperation for infection and 30-day mortality, as well as elements of social cost such as hospital length of stay and discharge to an advanced care facility. Symptoms of spine disease overlap with phenotypic markers of frailty; therefore, different frailty assessment tools may perform differently in patients with degenerative spine disease. Beyond frailty, however, cognitive decline and psychosocial isolation may interact with frailty and affect achievable surgical outcomes. Prehabilitation, which has reduced perioperative risk in colorectal and cardiac surgery, may benefit potential complex spine surgery patients. Typical prehabilitation includes physical exercise, nutrition supplementation, and behavioral measures that may offer symptomatic relief even in the absence of surgery. Nonetheless, the data on the efficacy of prehabilitation for spine surgery remains sparse and barriers to prehabilitation are poorly defined. This narrative review concludes that a frailty assessment—potentially supplemented by an assessment of cognition and psychosocial resources—should be part of shared decision-making for patients considering complex spine surgery. Such an assessment may suffice to prompt interventions that form a prehabilitation program. Formal prehabilitation programs will require further study to better define their place in complex spine care.
Copping Coping With the Braced Limbs
Authors: Rebello Gleeson , Joseph Benjamin
Published: August 2021

Harold Copping illustrated an edition of Charles Dickens’ classic, “A Christmas Carol.” One of the paintings of Bob Cratchit and Tiny Tim in the book shows Tiny Tim wearing braces on his lower limbs. Several diagnoses of Tiny Tim’s ailment have been suggested in the past but based on the details of Copping’s painting we suggest that he had rickets. The above-knee braces with uprights only on the lateral side of the limbs may have been given to prevent genu valgum, a common deformity in childhood rickets.
Characterization of Biopsies by Dermatologists and Nonphysician Providers in the Medicare Population: A Rapidly Changing Landscape
Authors: Patel Shreya , Nguyen Bichchau T.
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

Previous studies show that nonphysician providers may require a higher number of biopsies to identify skin malignancies than dermatologists. Therefore, understanding the trends behind the types of providers performing biopsies may help analyze their impact on this vulnerable population.

OBJECTIVE

This retrospective study analyzes changes in nationwide, regional, and state-level data on the number and proportion of biopsies performed by dermatologists compared with nonphysician providers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Biopsy cases were isolated in the Medicare database from 2012 to 2018 using the HCPCS codes 11,100 and 11,101. Cases were limited to biopsies performed by a dermatologist, nurse practitioner (NP), or physician assistant (PA).

RESULTS

From 2012 to 2018, national biopsy rates per 100,000 Medicare beneficiaries for dermatologists decreased by 6%, whereas those for NPs and PAs increased by 97% and 82%, respectively. Each state showed variation in both the proportion of biopsies by provider type and the net change in biopsies rates over time. All states saw increases in the number of biopsies per 100,000 Medicare beneficiaries by nonphysician providers.

CONCLUSION

As the number of Medicare beneficiaries continues to grow, nonphysician providers are performing an increasing proportion of biopsies, with specific states and regions being affected more than others.
Histologic Comparison of Upper Blepharoplasty Skin Excision Using Scalpel Incision Versus Microdissection Electrocautery Needle Tip Versus Continuous Wave CO2 Laser
Authors: Carqueville Jordan C. , Chesnut Cameron
Published: August 2021

BACKGROUND

The various techniques of upper blepharoplasty have been compared based on surgical time to perform the procedure, postoperative healing, scar cosmesis, and cost. Few studies have evaluated the histology of the excised tissue, and no study has compared the tissue histology of 3 blepharoplasty methods using scalpel, microdissection needle with electrocautery, and CO2 laser excision in the same patient.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the histologic changes of tissue after removal of upper eyelid skin using scalpel incision, microdissection electrocautery needle, and CO2 laser.

METHODS

Upper blepharoplasty skin excisions were examined from specimens obtained using scalpel incision, microdissection needle tip with electrocautery, and CO2 continuous wave beam. The specimens were sent for permanent sections for histologic evaluation.

RESULTS

The skin that was removed using cold steel scalpel incision showed no cellular necrosis or heat artifact. The tissue treated with the CO2 laser demonstrated significant thermal injury, including loss of cellular polarity, keratinocyte necrosis, and separation of the epidermis from the basement membrane. The skin excised using the electrocautery microdissection needle demonstrated fulguration artifact, including spindling of the epidermal nuclei with palisading of the keratinocytes. Necrosis was not prominent in the electrocautery microdissection needle specimens.

CONCLUSION

The amount of histologic tissue injury was greatest in the skin treated with continuous wave CO2 laser, followed by the microdissection needle with electrocautery. The cold steel scalpel incision showed no cellular necrosis.
Dissecting neuropathic from poststroke pain: the white matter within
Authors: Delboni Lemos Marcelo , Faillenot Isabelle , Tavares Lucato Leandro , Jacobsen Teixeira Manoel , Mendonça Barbosa Luciana , Joaquim Lopes Alho Eduardo , Bastos Conforto Adriana , Lilian de Lima Rodrigues Antonia , Galhardoni Ricardo , Aparecida da Silva Valquíria , Listik Clarice , Rosi Jefferson , Peyron Roland , Garcia-Larrea Luis , Ciampi de Andrade Daniel
Published: August 2021

Poststroke pain (PSP) is a heterogeneous term encompassing both central neuropathic (ie, central poststroke pain [CPSP]) and nonneuropathic poststroke pain (CNNP) syndromes. Central poststroke pain is classically related to damage in the lateral brainstem, posterior thalamus, and parietoinsular areas, whereas the role of white matter connecting these structures is frequently ignored. In addition, the relationship between stroke topography and CNNP is not completely understood. In this study, we address these issues comparing stroke location in a CPSP group of 35 patients with 2 control groups: 27 patients with CNNP and 27 patients with stroke without pain. Brain MRI images were analyzed by 2 complementary approaches: an exploratory analysis using voxel-wise lesion symptom mapping, to detect significant voxels damaged in CPSP across the whole brain, and a hypothesis-driven, region of interest–based analysis, to replicate previously reported sites involved in CPSP. Odds ratio maps were also calculated to demonstrate the risk for CPSP in each damaged voxel. Our exploratory analysis showed that, besides known thalamic and parietoinsular areas, significant voxels carrying a high risk for CPSP were located in the white matter encompassing thalamoinsular connections (one-tailed threshold Z > 3.96, corrected P value <0.05, odds ratio = 39.7). These results show that the interruption of thalamocortical white matter connections is an important component of CPSP, which is in contrast with findings from nonneuropathic PSP and from strokes without pain. These data can aid in the selection of patients at risk to develop CPSP who could be candidates to pre-emptive or therapeutic interventions.
Trends in the Utilization and Dose of Gabapentinoids in Combination With Opioids in an Injured Worker Population Between 2008 and 2018
Authors: Lavin Robert A. , Liu Che , Yuspeh Larry , Kalia Nimisha , Leung Nina , Tsourmas Nicholas F. , Williams Leila , Hunt Dan L. , Bernacki Edward J. , Tao Xuguang (Grant)
Published: August 2021

Objective:

To determine long term (11 year) trends in gabapentin and pregabalin prescribing among workers’ compensation claimants at various opioid dose combinations (low, medium, high, and very high) in Louisiana.

Method:

A longitudinal study of 18,737 claimants who filled any prescriptions between 2008 and 2018.

Results:

The proportion of claimants prescribed opioids alone at all dose levels decreased dramatically. The proportion claimants prescribed the combination of low dose opioids and low dose gabapentinoids increased (7.7% to 10.9%). Prescribing higher daily doses of gabapentinoids was associated with higher daily doses of opioids. Gabapentinoid prescribing was associated with continued prescribing of medium and high dose opioids as claims matured.

Conclusions:

Overall opioid prescribing decreased over time, while prescribing low dose opioids with gabapentinoids, increased.
Histone H3.3 G34-mutant Diffuse Gliomas in Adults
Authors: Wang Leiming , Shao Liwei , Li Hainan , Yao Kun , Duan Zejun , Zhi Cheng , Song Shuangshuang , Cheng Ye , Wang Fuyu , Wang Wei , Piao Yueshan , Gui Qiuping , Lu Dehong , Qi Xueling , Teng Lianghong
Published: August 2021

The characteristics of H3.3 G34-mutant gliomas in adults have yet to be specifically described. Thirty adults with H3.3 G34-mutant diffuse gliomas were retrospectively reviewed for clinical and pathologic information. Molecular profiling using next-generation sequencing was performed in 29 of the 30 H3.3 G34-mutant patients with 1 patient lacking available tumor samples, as well as 82 IDH/H3 wild-type adult diffuse glioma patients. The age at diagnosis of H3.3 G34-mutant diffuse gliomas was significantly younger than IDH/H3 wild-type gliomas (24 vs. 57 y, P<0.001). Overall, 19 of the 30 patients were diagnosed of glioblastoma with the primitive neuronal component, and 8 were glioblastoma. The molecular profiling analysis revealed higher frequencies of Olig-2 loss of expression, TP53 mutation, ATRX mutation, PDGFRA mutation, and MGMT promoter methylation (P<0.05) in H3.3 G34-mutant gliomas than IDH/H3 wild-type gliomas. No TERT promoter mutation and only 1 case of EGFR amplification were detected in the H3.3 G34-mutant cohort, the frequencies of which were significantly higher in the IDH/H3 wild-type cohort. A dismal prognosis was observed in H3.3 G34-mutant patients comparing to IDH/H3 wild-type cohort (overall survival: 14 vs. 22 mo; P=0.026). Univariate and multivariate analyses showed that the extent of resection and TP53 mutation were independently affecting prognosis. The distinct pathologic and molecular features of H3.3 G34-mutant diffuse gliomas in adult patients demonstrated the clinical importance of detecting H3.3 G34R/V mutations. The dismal prognosis of this rare high-grade glioma disease we reported here would further promote the investigation of dedicated therapeutic strategies.
Prevalence of Untreated HIV and Associated Risk Behaviors Among the Sexual Partners of Recent Migrants and Long-term Residents in Rakai, Uganda
Authors: Brophy Jennifer E. , Lessler Justin , Ssekubugu Robert , Kennedy Caitlin E. , Chang Larry W. , Kigozi Godfrey , Ndyanabo Anthony , Kigozi Grace , Nalugoda Fred , Gray Ronald H. , Wawer Maria J. , Serwadda David M. , Reynolds Steven J. , Kagaayi Joseph , Grabowski Mary K.
Published: August 2021

Background:

Migrants in sub-Saharan Africa are at increased risk of HIV acquisition after migration, but little is known about their sexual partners at place of destination.

Setting:

Rakai Community Cohort Study (RCCS) in Uganda.

Methods:

From 1999 to 2016, persons aged 15–49 years were surveyed in the RCCS and reported on their 4 most recent sexual partners in the last year. We compared the characteristics of sexual partners reported by migrants moving into RCCS communities in the last 2 years (ie, in-migrants) with those of long-term residents with no recent migration history. Among a subset of participants in cohabitating epidemiologically linked couples of known HIV serostatus, we also assessed prevalence of having ≥1 untreated HIV-positive partner among in-migrants and long-term residents.

Results:

One hundred sixteen thousand seven hundred forty-four sexual partners were reported by 29,423 participants. The sexual partnerships of in-migrants were significantly less likely to be marital, more likely to span community boundaries, and shorter in duration than those of long-term residents. In-migrants also reported more sexual partners and were less likely to know their partner's HIV status or to have told their partner their HIV status. Among 7558 epidemiologically linked couples, HIV-negative in-migrants were more likely to partner with untreated HIV-positive persons compared with HIV-negative long-term residents (women: 6.3% vs. 4.1%; prevalence risk ratio = 1.77, 95% confidence interval: 1.49 to 2.11; men: 6.9% vs. 3.9%; prevalence risk ratio = 1.72, 95% confidence interval: 1.38–2.14).

Conclusion:

There is a higher frequency of risky sexual behaviors among the partnerships of in-migrants compared with those of long-term residents. Among cohabitating couples, in-migrants are more likely to partner with untreated HIV-positive individuals.
Total Neoadjuvant Therapy Versus Standard Neoadjuvant Chemoradiation in Patients with Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer
Authors: Goffredo Paolo , Khan Adil , Mott Sarah L. , Jensen Christine C. , Madoff Robert D. , Gaertner Wolfgang B. , You Y. Nancy , Hassan Imran
Published: August 2021

Objective:

To evaluate the impact of neoadjuvant multi-agent systemic chemotherapy and radiation (TNT) vs neoadjuvant single-agent chemoradiation (nCRT) and multi-agent adjuvant chemotherapy on overall survival (OS), tumor downstaging, and circumferential resection margin (CRM) status in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer.

Summary of Background Data:

Outside of clinical trials and small institutional reports, there is a paucity of data regarding the short and long-term oncologic impact of TNT as compared to nCRT.

Methods:

Adult patients with stage II-III rectal adenocarcinoma were identified in the National Cancer Database [2006–2015].

Results:

Out of 8,548 patients, 36% received TNT and 64% nCRT. In the cohort, 13% had a pCR and 20% a neoadjuvant rectal (NAR) score <8. In multivariable analysis, as compared to nCRT, TNT demonstrated numerically higher pCR rates (P = 0.05) but had similar incidence of positive CRM (P = 0.11). Similar results were observed with NAR scores <8 as the primary endpoint. After adjusting for confounders, OS was comparable between the 2 groups. Additional factors independently associated with lower OS included male gender, uninsured status, low income status, high comorbidity score, poorly differentiated tumors, abdominoperineal resection, and positive surgical margins (all P <0.01). In separate models, both pCR and a NAR score <8 were associated with improved OS.

Conclusion:

In this national cohort, TNT was not associated with better survival and/or CRM negative status in comparison with nCRT, despite numerically higher downstaging rates. Further refinement of patient selection and treatment regimens are needed to establish effective neoadjuvant platforms to improve outcomes of patients with rectal cancer.