bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excavation of a kerbed funerary monument at Stoneyfield, Raigmore, Inverness, Highland, 1972–3
Authors: Simpson Derek D A , Mackreth D F , Buckley L , Lunt D A , Wilkinson J L , Harman M , Romans J C C , Morgan G
Published: August 2022

Rescue excavation at Stoneyfield was undertaken on behalf of the then Ministry of Public Buildings and Works (Scotland) in 1972–3. The results suggest that this multi-period monument can be divided broadly into three major phases of construction. In Phase 1 a series of pits were dug in the early third millennium BC, one containing Grooved Ware and a second a cup-marked stone. In Phase 2 further pits were dug, again some with Grooved Ware. Two of these antedated a central rectangular post setting, but the recovery of sherds, similar to those from the pits, suggest the structure belongs to the same general period. To this phase also belongs the construction of a massive kerb of graded stones, the tallest to the south-west enclosing a platform cairn in the Clava tradition. Finally, Phase 3 involved the construction of a series of cists, one with a Food Vessel, and the digging of a pit through the platform cairn containing a cremation beneath an inverted Cordoned Urn. There was also evidence of Iron Age and early medieval activity on the site.
EL TRABAJO INMATERIAL EN EL CICLO MATERIAL DEL CAPITAL Y LA DETERMINACIÓN DE LAS CLASES SOCIALES EN EL CAPITALISMO CONTEMPORÁNEO
Authors: Valencia Adrián Sotelo
Published: August 2022

En el presente artículo, buscamos relacionar dialécticamente el concepto de trabajo inmaterial con el ciclo del trabajo material en la producción y reproducción del capital y de la sociedad burguesa. Asimismo, nos interesa reflexionar sobre algunas hipótesis en relación con la manera como lo anterior incide en la conformación de las clases sociales – y en sus luchas – en la sociedad capitalista contemporánea. PALABRAS CLAVE: Trabajo inmaterial. Clase y lucha social. Valor. Capitalismo. IMMATERIAL LABOR IN THE MATERIAL CYCLE OF CAPITAL AND THE INFLUENCE OF SOCIAL CLASSES ON CONTEMPORARY CAPITALISM Adrián Sotelo Valencia This paper aims to establish a dialectical connection between the concept of immaterial labor and the cycle of material labor in the production and reproduction of capital and in bourgeois society. In the same way, its purpose is to consider some hypotheses related to the way that immaterial labor affects the shaping of social classes – and their struggle – in contemporary capitalist society. KEY WORDS: Immaterial labor. Class and Social Struggle. Value. Capitalism. LE TRAVAIL IMMATÉRIEL DANS LE CYCLE MATÉRIEL DU CAPITAL ET LA DÉTERMINATION DES CLASSES SOCIALES DANS LE CAPITALISME CONTEMPORAIN Adrián Sotelo Valencia Dans cet article, nous essayons d’établir un lien dialectique entre le concept du travail immatériel et le cycle du travail matériel dans la production et la reproduction du capital et de la société bourgeoise. Nous y faisons aussi une réflexion concernant certaines hypothèses quant à la façon dont le travail immatériel a une incidence sur la formation des classes sociales – et dans leurs luttes – dans la société capitaliste  contemporaine. MOTS-CLÉS: Travail immatériel. Classes et luttes sociales. Valeur. Capitalisme. Publicação Online do Caderno CRH no Scielo: http://www.scielo.br/ccrh  Publicação Online do Caderno CRH: http://www.cadernocrh.ufba.br
Interview study: Telehealth access to buprenorphine still faces roadblocks
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: August 2022

Policy changes that offered a telehealth option for initiation of buprenorphine treatment were seen as potentially a major boost to access, but a newly published study based on patient experiences in two states suggests that the move has resulted in new barriers to care.
Psychiatry organization does not endorse psychedelic treatment
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: August 2022

Last month the American Psychiatric Association (APA) issued a position statement on psychedelics warning about the short‐ and long‐term risks of these unapproved drugs. Sanctioned by the APA board of trustees, the “Position Statement on the Use of Psychedelic and Empathogenic Agents for Mental Health Conditions” notes that preliminary research involving psychedelics for the treatment of serious conditions, such as treatment‐resistant depression and post‐traumatic stress disorder, have motivated growing interest in the therapeutic potential of these agents.
Stable Imprinted Zincophilic Zn Anodes with High Capacity
Authors: Cao Qinghe , Pan Zhenghui , Gao Yong , Pu Jie , Fu Gangwen , Cheng Guanghua , Guan Cao
Published: August 2022

Stable Zn anode capable of working at high currents and high capacities remains a great challenge. Although construction of 3D Zn frameworks can achieve improved cycling properties to some extent, they are usually combined with low energy density, complex fabrication process, and high cost. Herein, a zincophilic Zn foil with 3D micropatterns utilizing a simple and scalable imprinting strategy with predesigned mold by femtosecond laser is reported. The imprinting induced microchannels with enhanced Zn2+ affinity not only effectively regulate the Zn2+ ions concentration distribution, but also prevent the short circuit from vertical dendrite growth. As a result, the imprinted zincophilic Zn foil can steadily work for over 100 h at high current density/capacity of 10 mA cm−2/10 mAh cm−2, which is superior compared to bare Zn. The generality of the imprinting strategy is further revealed with large‐scale Zn–ion batteries and various zincophilic materials, demonstrating a promising route for practical applications.
Study of Resonant Leaky Edge States in Simple Topological Photonic Lattices
Authors: Ko Yeong Hwan , Magnusson Robert
Published: August 2022

The properties of topological edge states of resonant photonic lattices are reported. The canonical 1D lattice embodies all chief qualities necessary for a complete comprehension of the variety of fundamental physical processes at play. Radiating topological edge states are understood in terms of leaky‐mode resonance stimulated by counter‐propagating Bloch modes. As a free‐space electromagnetic wave illuminates the junction between band‐flipped photonic lattices, quasi‐leaky resonant light is localized at the interface, which embodies the characteristics of the closed‐band state of the composite lattice. Rigorous numerical examples with Ge/ZnSe‐based lattices with a finite number of periods and having homogeneous sublayers illustrate the resonance properties of the constituent lattices, the band‐closed lattice, and the composite lattice hosting the radiant edge state. The topological interface is seen to radiate effectively near the wavelength where the band closes. With the insight gained from the 1D analysis, a representative 2D lattice is similarly treated. As orthogonal leaky modes are supported by 2D lattices, the interface‐bound energy flow picture is more intriguing. Thus, lateral TE and TM modes can be excited to run along the topological interface or normal to it. Versatile power flow, energy density, and radiation characteristics are then available at the 2D topological interface.
Artificial Intelligence‐Based Material Discovery for Clean Energy Future
Authors: Maleki Reza , Asadnia Mohsen , Razmjou Amir
Published: August 2022

Artificial intelligence (AI)‐assisted materials design and discovery methods can come to the aid of global concerns for introducing new efficient materials in different applications. Also, a sustainable clean future requires a transition to a low‐carbon economy that is material‐intensive. AI‐assisted methods advent as inexpensive and accelerated methods in the design of new materials for clean energies. Herein, the emerging research area of AI‐assisted material discovery with a focus on developing clean energies is discussed. The applications, advantages, and challenges of using AI in material discovery are discussed and the future perspective of using AI in clean energy is studied. This perspective paves the way for a better understanding of the future of AI applications in clean energies.
An Adaptive Intelligent System Based on Energy‐Efficient Synaptic Resistor Circuits with Fast Real‐Time Learning
Authors: Shenoy Rahul , Tudor Andrew , Nathan Dhruva , Deo Atharva , Rong Zixuan , Shaffer Christopher M. , Danesh Cameron D. , Suresh Bharathwaj , Chen Yong
Published: August 2022

Unlike the human brain, which concurrently executes inference and learning algorithms in neural networks in real time, artificial intelligence (AI) systems usually execute inference algorithms and learning algorithms in series, which lack fast real‐time learning functionality, high computing energy efficiency, and adaptability in the complex, erratic real world. Herein, an intelligent system integrating a drone and a synaptic resistor (synstor) circuit that concurrently executes inference and reinforcement learning algorithms in real‐time is reported. Without any prior learning or programming, the conductance matrix of the synstor circuit is dynamically optimized in its real‐time learning processes, thus enabling the drone to adapt and fly toward its target positions in erratic aerodynamic environments. In learning experiments involving a drone driven by synstor circuits, humans, or computers, the real‐time learning by the synstor circuit is superior to the real‐time learning by humans and the cloud learning by computers, in terms of key benchmarks including adaptability, learning time, precision, power consumption, and energy efficiency. By circumventing the fundamental limitations in computers, synstor circuits open up new directions to establish AI systems with brain‐like fast real‐time learning functionality, high computing energy efficiency, and adaptability in complex, erratic real‐world environments for versatile applications.
Exploration of autonomic regulation reflecting on pathophysiological change of sepsis: a prospective observational study
Authors: Nakashima Ryuta , Inagaki Nobuhiro , Kasaoka Shunji
Published: August 2022

Aim

It remains unclear how autonomic regulation modulates pathophysiological changes of sepsis. This study aims to analyze and clarify those in patients with suspected sepsis.

Methods

In this single‐centered, prospective, observational study, adult patients who had an infection, a quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score of 2 or more at the emergency department, and underwent intensive care were screened. Heart rate variability (HRV) and serum adrenaline were measured immediately after arrival. The primary outcome was defined as vasopressor dependence during 48 h after arrival.

Results

A total of 63 patients were included. All the patients had SOFA score of 2 or more on admission. Vasopressor dependence, renal replacement therapy, and in‐hospital mortality were associated with higher adrenaline (which reflects sympathetic adrenergic system activity). Bacteremia was associated with lower high‐frequency components of HRV (parasympathetic nerve activity). The HRV parameter of sympathetic nerve activity had no significant association with the outcomes. In the multivariate logistic regression model adjusted for age and sex, vasopressor dependence remained associated with higher adrenaline (cut‐off 0.11 ng/mL, odds ratio 9.71, 95% confidence interval 2.55–37; P = 0.000874), and lower high‐frequency components with bacteremia (17.2 ms2, odds ratio 4.86, 95% confidence interval 1.36–17.4; P = 0.0152). There were no significant correlations between parameters of HRV and serum adrenaline.

Conclusion

Hypoperfusion, organ dysfunction, and in‐hospital mortality were associated with an increased sympathetic adrenergic activity. Bacteremia was associated with decreased parasympathetic nerve activity. The autonomic regulator may involve a multilayered and differentiated modulating process for sepsis.
Increased Phospho‐AKT in Blood Cells from LRRK2 G2019S Mutation Carriers
Authors: Garrido Alicia , Pérez‐Sisqués Leticia , Simonet Cristina , Campoy‐Campos Genís , Solana‐Balaguer Júlia , Martín‐Flores Núria , Fernández Manel , Soto Marta , Obiang Donina , Cámara Ana , Valldeoriola Francesc , Muñoz Esteban , Compta Yaroslau , Pérez‐Navarro Esther , Alberch Jordi , Tolosa Eduardo , Martí María‐José , Ezquerra Mario , Malagelada Cristina , Fernández‐Santiago Rubén
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether  differential phosphorylation states of blood markers can identify patients with LRRK2 Parkinson's disease (PD). We assessed phospho(P)‐Ser‐935‐LRRK2 and P‐Ser‐473‐AKT levels in peripheral blood cells from patients with G2019S LRRK2‐associated PD (L2PD, n = 31), G2019S LRRK2 non‐manifesting carriers (L2NMC, n = 26), idiopathic PD (iPD, n = 25), and controls (n = 40, total n = 122). We found no differences at P‐Ser‐935‐LRRK2 between groups but detected a specific increase of P‐Ser‐473‐AKT levels in all G2019S carriers, either L2PD or L2NMC, absent in iPD. Although insensitive to LRRK2 inhibition, our study identifies P‐Ser‐473‐AKT as an endogenous candidate biomarker for peripheral inflammation in G2019S carriers using accessible blood cells. ANN NEUROL 2022;92:888–894
Direction‐Reversible Accelerated Beam Generation Based on Metasurfaces
Authors: Lu Peiyao , Zhou Changda , Xu Jilian , Yue Zhiyuan , Li Zhong , Teng Shuyun
Published: August 2022

Accelerated beams have many applications because of their remarkable ability to propagate along curved trajectories. An accelerated beam with a non‐monotonic trajectory provides more beam deformability and trajectory concealment. This paper proposes direction‐reversible accelerated beam generation on nanometer scale based on metasurfaces. The non‐monotonic trajectory of the beam can be obtained by designing the geometric metasurface, while the curvature of the light trajectory can be adjusted by changing the angles of rectangular nanoholes. A theoretical expression for the modified wavefront of the proposed beam is deduced, and simulation and experiment results confirm the performance of the metasurface for generating a direction‐reversible accelerated beam. Discussions on the self‐healing of the accelerated beam and the influence of incident conditions on the curve trajectory show the trajectory controllability of the accelerated beam during the propagation. This work paves one way for tailoring the accelerated fields with complex trajectories, and it is helpful to expand the applications of accelerated beams.
Modular Construction of a Tessellated Octahedron, its Hierarchical Spherical Aggregate Behavior, and Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction Activity
Authors: Wang Guotao , Yang Yunna , Liu Hui , Chen Mingzhao , Jiang Zhiyuan , Bai Qixia , Yuan Jie , Jiang Zhilong , Li Yiming , Wang Pingshan
Published: August 2022

Coordination‐driven self‐assembly has led to the formation of various aesthetical polyhedrons and compounds with advanced functions. Whereas two‐dimensional supramolecules with complex and giant skeletons are plentiful, the constructions of polyhedrons are limited by using basic polygons as the panels. Herein, we report the modular synthesis of a tessellated triangle and tessellated octahedron with metal‐organic modules as the panels and formed via template‐driven self‐assembly. These architectures have diameters on the order of 10.9 nm and molecular weights greater than 84 kDa. Interestingly, fiber and spherical‐like nanostructures could be formed from the tessellated triangles and octahedrons, respectively, through hierarchical self‐assembly. In addition, after hybridization with carbon nanotubes, the supramolecules exhibit electrochemical reduction activity for CO2 to CO.
Thermal stability of gamma irradiated ethylene propylene diene monomer composites for shielding applications
Authors: Barala Surendra Singh , Manda Vikram , Jodha Ajay Singh , C Ajay , Gopalani Deepak
Published: August 2022

The effect of gamma‐irradiation on the ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) based composites, loaded with tungsten and barium sulfate were investigated for radiation resistance properties. The tungsten and barium sulfate fillers were added in different proportion (wt%) to EPDM matrix and prepared using compression molding technique. The developed EPDM composites were exposed to 60Co gamma radiation doses from 0 to 400 kGy. The swelling index of the composites were studied for the irradiated samples and found to decrease with higher gamma doses. Tensile characterization was also carried out and elongation at break, tensile strength and modulus at 100% elongation have been determined for gamma irradiated EPDM based composites. Tensile properties were modified in the irradiated samples and elongation at break is decreased whereas the modulus increases as a function of gamma dose due to increases in crosslinking after irradiation. Thermogravimetric analysis was performed and observed improvement in thermal stability of gamma irradiated EPDM composites.
A Multicenter, Prospective, Randomized, Parallel‐Group Trial on the Effects of Temporary Methotrexate Discontinuation for One Week Versus Two Weeks on Seasonal Influenza Vaccination in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Park Jin Kyun , Lee Yun Jong , Shin Kichul , Kang Eun Ha , Ha You‐Jung , Park Jun Won , Kim Min Jung , Kim Mi Hyeon , Choi Se Rim , Jung Youjin , Lee Ju Ho , In Jung Ji , Kim Ju Yeon , Winthrop Kevin L. , Lee Eun Bong
Published: August 2022

Objective

This clinical trial was conducted to investigate whether discontinuing methotrexate (MTX) for 1 week after seasonal influenza vaccination is noninferior to discontinuing for 2 weeks after vaccination in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

In this multicenter, prospective, randomized, parallel‐group noninferiority trial, RA patients receiving a stable dose of MTX were randomly assigned at a ratio of 1:1 to discontinue MTX for 1 week or for 2 weeks after they received the quadrivalent 2021–2022 seasonal influenza vaccine containing H1N1, H3N2, B/Yamagata, and B/Victoria strains. The primary outcome measure was the proportion of patients with a satisfactory vaccine response, which was defined as ≥4‐fold increase in antibody titers, as determined with the hemagglutination inhibition assay, against ≥2 of the 4 vaccine strains at 4 weeks after vaccination.

Results

The modified intent‐to‐treat population included 90 patients in the 1‐week MTX hold group and 88 patients in the 2‐week MTX hold group. The mean ± SD MTX doses were 12.6 ± 3.4 mg/week in the 1‐week MTX hold group and 12.9 ± 3.3 mg/week in the 2‐week MTX hold group. The proportion of satisfactory vaccine responses did not differ between the groups (68.9% versus 75.0%; P = 0.364). The rate of seroprotection and the fold increase in antibody titers for each of the 4 influenza antigens were similar between the groups.

Conclusion

A temporary discontinuation of MTX for 1 week after vaccination was noninferior to a discontinuation of MTX for 2 weeks after vaccination, regarding induction of a satisfactory vaccine response to a seasonal influenza vaccine in patients with RA receiving a stable dose of MTX.

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“Death of social encounters”: InvestigatingCOVID‐19's initial impact on virtual reference services in academic libraries
Authors: Radford Marie L. , Costello Laura , Montague Kaitlin E.
Published: August 2022

This investigation explores the initial impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on live chat virtual reference services (VRS) in academic libraries and on user behaviors from March to December 2020 using Goffman's theoretical framework (1956, 1967, 1971). Data from 300 responses by academic librarians to two longitudinal online surveys and 28 semi‐structured interviews were quantitatively and qualitatively analyzed. Results revealed that academic librarians were well‐positioned to provide VRS as university information hubs during pandemic shutdowns. Qualitative analysis revealed that participants received gratitude for VRS help, but also experienced frustrations and angst with limited accessibility during COVID‐19. Participants reported changes including VRS volume, level of complexity, and question topics. Results reveal the range and frequency of new services with librarians striving to make personal connections with users through VRS, video consultations, video chat, and other strategies. Participants found it difficult to maintain these connections, coping through grit and mutual support when remote work became necessary. They adapted to challenges, including isolation, technology learning curves, and disrupted work routines. Librarians' responses chronicle their innovative approaches, fierce determination, emotional labor, and dedication to helping users and colleagues through this unprecedented time. Results have vital implications for the future of VRS.
Further evaluation of general and descriptive praise statements on the acquisition of tacts
Authors: Cortes Adrian , Wiskow Katie M.
Published: August 2022

Praise is a consequence that many practitioners use in teaching settings and descriptive praise is often recommended. However, research on descriptive praise has not reliably resulted in faster acquisition compared to general praise. Delivering short praise statements may increase the effectiveness of descriptive praise by only presenting the relevant feature of the feedback (i.e., the target). In the present study, we evaluated general, descriptive, and general plus descriptive praise statements on acquisition of tacts via telehealth with two typically developing toddlers. Results showed that the number of sessions to criterion was similar in all conditions for both participants, which suggests that the contents of praise did not influence learning. This study also builds on the research of praise through the preliminary use of telehealth with toddlers.
Recent advances in nanomaterials‐based optical sensors for detection of various biomarkers (inorganic species, organic and biomolecules)
Authors: Harshita  , Wu Hui‐Fen , Kailasa Suresh Kumar
Published: August 2022

This review briefly emphasizes the different detection approaches (electrochemical sensors, chemiluminescence, surface‐enhanced Raman scattering), functional nanostructure materials (quantum dots, metal nanoparticles, metal nanoclusters, magnetic nanomaterials, metal oxide nanoparticles, polymer‐based nanomaterials, and carbonaceous nanomaterials) and detection mechanisms. Furthermore, the emphasis of this review is on the integration of functional nanomaterials with optical spectroscopic techniques for the identification of various biomarkers (nucleic acids, glucose, uric acid, oxytocin, dopamine, ascorbic acid, bilirubin, spermine, serotonin, thiocyanate, Pb2+, Cu2+, Hg2+, F−, peptides), and cancer biomarkers (mucin 1, prostate specific antigen, carcinoembryonic antigen, CA15‐3, human epidermal growth factor receptor 2, C‐reactive protein, and interleukin‐6). Analytical characteristics of nanomaterials‐based optical sensors are summarized in the tables, providing the insights of nanomaterials‐based optical sensors for biomarkers detection. Finally, the opportunities and challenges of nanomaterials‐based optical analytical approaches for the detection of various biomarkers (inorganic, organic, biomolecules, peptides and proteins) are discussed.
Knowledge mapping of 4D printing technologies in computer engineering
Authors: Lamba Yogveer S. , Sood Sandeep K. , Rawat Keshav S. , Chopra Mayank , Singh Ashutosh K.
Published: August 2022

Four‐dimensional (4D) printing has received an amplified consideration in the research community for fabrication and manufacturing in industry, medical field, and smart flood management. Disruptive technologies such as Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, and 4D printing are highly recommended during disaster management activities. The 4D printing technology is an evolving field that is an advancement of three‐dimensional printing technologies in which the materials are programmed to change shape over time responding to external stimulus without human intervention, thereby adding a fourth dimension. The technology had a great impact during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and flood management activities. This paper, with the aim of a scientometric review, recognizes the recent research hotspots, trends, and worldwide scope of 4D printing for the period of 2007–2021. The bibliographic data fetched from the Scopus in comma‐separated values format is used in the study for extracting the masked information by discussing the in‐depth visualization of the attributes of the index documents. The study examines the growth of publications, subject categorizations, global distributions, citation analysis, and the influence of the institutions and authors using the bibliographic data. VOSviewer, a java‐based tool, is used to study the keyword co‐occurrence, which yields hotspots and emerging trends in the various applications of 4D printing, including smart flood management. This study provides the implementation, latest trends, and universal research topography over the past decade, which assists to recognize primitive research and also provides supervision for the upcoming research.
Alternative Electron Donors for the Nitrogenase‐like Dark‐Operative Protochlorophyllide Oxidoreductase (DPOR)
Authors: Bedendi Giada , Kulkarni Amogh , Maroni Plinio , Milton Ross D.
Published: August 2022

Sharing structural and mechanistic properties with the dinitrogen‐fixing enzyme nitrogenase, dark‐operative protochlorophyllide oxidoreductase (DPOR) participates in the biosynthesis of bacteriochlorophyll, subsequently enabling photosynthesis by photosynthetic bacteria. In contrast to the light‐dependent POR, electron transfer in DPOR is coupled to the hydrolysis of adenosine triphosphate for the two‐electron stereoselective reduction of protochlorophyllide (Pchlide) to chlorophyllide (Chlide), a coupling also employed by nitrogenases for the multielectron reduction of dinitrogen to ammonia. The importance of adenosine triphosphate hydrolysis is not fully understood for these enzymes, and electrochemistry is a valuable technique to regulate and/or monitor electron delivery to these enzymes. Here, we report three alternative electron donors that support protochlorophyllide reduction in the DPOR system, which could also enable electroenzymatic studies of DPOR. We demonstrate the turnover of DPOR within a spectroelectrochemical configuration, permitting the formation of Chlide to be followed and coupled to electron utilization by DPOR.
A methodology for assessing computation/communication overlap of MPI nonblocking collectives
Authors: Denis Alexandre , Jaeger Julien , Jeannot Emmanuel , Reynier Florian
Published: August 2022

By allowing computation/communication overlap, MPI nonblocking collectives (NBC) are supposed to improve application scalability and performance. However, it is known that to actually get overlap, the MPI library has to implement progression mechanisms in software or rely on the network hardware. These mechanisms may be present or not, adequate or perfectible, they may have an impact on communication performance or may interfere with computation by stealing CPU cycles. From a user point of view, assessing and understanding the behavior of an MPI library concerning computation/communication overlap is difficult. In this article, we propose a methodology to assess the computation/communication overlap of NBC. We propose new metrics to measure how much communication and computation do overlap, and to evaluate how they interfere with each other. We integrate these metrics into a complete methodology. We compare our methodology with state of the art metrics and benchmarks, and show that ours provides more meaningful informations. We perform experiments on a large panel of MPI implementations and network hardware and show when and why overlap is efficient, nonexistent or even degrades performance.
Structural Analysis of the Spike Protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 Variants and Other Betacoronaviruses Using Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Bolivar‐Muñoz Jonathan , Vits Sofia , Bermudez‐Santana Clara Isabel , Galindo Johan Fabian
Published: August 2022

A structural analysis over various spike proteins from three highly pathogenic Betacoronavirus was done to understand their structural differences. The proteins were modeled using crystal structures from SARS‐CoV, MERS‐CoV, and other Betacoronavirus that infect bats and pangolins. The group was split in two sets; the first set corresponds to the non‐mutated spike proteins, while the second set corresponds to mutated spike variants alpha, beta, gamma, delta, omicron and mu; five of them classified as variants of concern and the last one as variant of interest. A conformational space exploration was carried out for every protein by using molecular dynamic simulations. Root mean square fluctuations, principal component and cross‐correlation analysis were carried out over the dynamics to analyze the flexibility and rigidity of every protein in comparison to the wild type Spike protein from the SARS‐CoV‐2. The obtained results indicate that the proteins, which are not spread among humans, have smooth movements compared to those of SARS‐CoV‐2 and its variants. In addition, a relationship between the speed of the virulence and the movement of the protein can explain the behavior of delta and omicron variants.
Gulf of Mexico Hypoxia 2022: What’s the Role of Plant Nutrition?
Authors: Bruulsema Tom
Published: August 2022

Hypoxia in the Gulf of Mexico is an environmental issue connected to agricultural crop management in the Mississippi River watershed. Programs to improve nutrient stewardship in this watershed aim to improve nutrient use efficiency and reduce losses of nitrogen and phosphorus. Trends since the 1980s show increases in both crop production and the size of the hypoxic zone while the trends in nitrogen surplus have neither increased nor decreased. Provisional flow‐normalized river loads of nitrogen are decreasing. While improvements in adoption of 4R management of applied fertilizers and manures have been noted, opportunities for improvement also remain. While 4R practices will not solve the issue on their own, they can make an important contribution when integrated with soil conservation practices and changes to whole farming systems. Earn 1 CEU in Nutrient Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
A case of osteoclastic variant of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma: Diagnostic and prognostic marker studies by cytology
Authors: Bantumilli Surekha , Zhu Lee‐Ching , Sakthivel Muthukumar , Dodd Leslie
Published: August 2022

Anaplastic thyroid carcinoma is an infrequent, but aggressive fatal subtype of thyroid cancer. The osteoclastic variant of anaplastic carcinoma is a rare subtype of anaplastic carcinoma with rare cases reported in the literature. Molecular targeted therapies have emerged for the anaplastic carcinoma, necessitating accurate pathologic diagnosis with additional ancillary testing for directing clinical management. We present here the cytological diagnosis of an anaplastic thyroid carcinoma—osteoclastic variant on fine‐needle aspiration (FNA), with emphasis on the novelty of utilizing the least invasive procedure (aspiration cytology) for rendering pathological diagnosis as well as identifying potential prognostic markers for targeted immunotherapy.
Phenological segregation suggests speciation by time in the planktonic diatom Pseudo‐nitzschia allochrona sp. nov.
Authors: Percopo Isabella , Ruggiero Maria Valeria , Sarno Diana , Longobardi Lorenzo , Rossi Rachele , Piredda Roberta , Zingone Adriana
Published: August 2022

The processes leading to the emergence of new species are poorly understood in marine plankton, where weak physical barriers and homogeneous environmental conditions limit spatial and ecological segregation. Here, we combine molecular and ecological information from a long‐term time series and propose Pseudo‐nitzschia allochrona, a new cryptic planktonic diatom, as a possible case of speciation by temporal segregation. The new species differs in several genetic markers (18S, 28S and ITS rDNA fragments and rbcL) from its closest relatives, which are morphologically very similar or identical, and is reproductively isolated from its sibling species P. arenysensis. Data from a long‐term plankton time series show P. allochrona invariably occurring in summer–autumn in the Gulf of Naples, where its closely related species P. arenysensis, P. delicatissima, and P. dolorosa are instead found in winter–spring. Temperature and nutrients are the main factors associated with the occurrence of P. allochrona, which could have evolved in sympatry by switching its phenology and occupying a new ecological niche. This case of possible speciation by time shows the relevance of combining ecological time series with molecular information to shed light on the eco‐evolutionary dynamics of marine microorganisms.
Differences in functional trait responses to elevation among feeding guilds of Aculeata community
Authors: Uemori Kazushige , Mita Toshiharu , Hishi Takuo
Published: August 2022

The response of communities to environmental change is expected to vary among feeding guilds. To evaluate the response of guilds to environmental factors without considering the taxonomic specificities, it is useful to examine Aculeata bees and wasps, which consist of closely related taxa including different guilds, pollinators, predators, and parasitoids. In this study, we evaluated changes in species diversity (SD) and functional traits of each feeding guild along an elevational gradient in a boreal forest in northern Japan. We used yellow pan traps to collect Aculeata bees and wasps at 200–1600 m above sea level. We investigated six functional traits (trophic level, seasonal duration, body size, elevational range, nesting position, and soil dependency) and the horizontal distribution of the species. The SD of all Aculeata, predators, and parasitoids decreased with an increase in elevation; however, the SD of pollinators did not show any specific trend. Although the functional trait composition of all Aculeata species did not show any trend, that of each feeding guild responded to elevation in different ways. Pollinators increased in body size and showed a decrease in seasonal duration with increasing elevation, suggesting that tolerance and seasonal escape from physical stress at high elevations are important for shaping pollinator communities. Predators increased their elevational range and the proportion of above‐ground nesting species increased with increasing elevation, suggesting that the ability to live in a wider range of environments and avoid unsuitable soil environments at high elevations might be important. Parasitoids changed their hosts and displayed variable traits with increasing elevation, suggesting that brood parasitoids have difficulty in surviving at high elevation. The traits for each guild responded in different ways, even if they were dominated by the same environmental factors. Our findings imply that differences in the responses of functional traits would produce different community assembly patterns in different guilds during further climate change.
Nutrigonometry II: Experimental strategies to maximize nutritional information in multidimensional performance landscapes
Authors: Morimoto Juliano
Published: August 2022

Animals regulate their nutrient consumption to maximize the expression of fitness traits with competing nutritional needs (“nutritional trade‐offs”). Nutritional trade‐offs have been studied using a response surface modeling approach known as the Geometric Framework for nutrition (GF). Current experimental design in GF studies does not explore the entire area of the nutritional space resulting in performance landscapes that may be incomplete. This hampers our ability to understand the properties of the performance landscape (e.g., peak shape) from which meaningful biological insights can be obtained. Here, I tested alternative experimental designs to explore the full range of the performance landscape in GF studies. I compared the performance of the standard GF design strategy with three alternatives: hexagonal, square, and random points grid strategies with respect to their accuracy in reconstructing baseline performance landscapes from a landmark GF dataset. I showed that standard GF design did not reconstruct the properties of baseline performance landscape appropriately particularly for traits that respond strongly to the interaction between nutrients. Moreover, the peak estimates in the reconstructed performance landscape using standard GF design were accurate in terms of the nutrient ratio but incomplete in terms of peak shape. All other grid designs provided more accurate reconstructions of the baseline performance landscape while also providing accurate estimates of nutrient ratio and peak shape. Thus, alternative experimental designs can maximize information from performance landscapes in GF studies, enabling reliable biological insights into nutritional trade‐offs and physiological limits within and across species.
Seasonal variation of immune response to heterologous erythrocytes in natural populations of red‐backed (Clethrionomys rutilus) and gray‐sided (C. rufocanus) voles in Western Siberia
Authors: Kravchenko Larisa B. , Rogovin Konstantin A.
Published: August 2022

We studied the seasonal variation of adaptive humoral immunity (AHI) in northern red‐backed vole (Clethrionomys rutilus Pallas, 1779, RBV) and gray‐sided vole (C. rufocanus Sundevall, 1846, GSV) in Tomsk region of Western Siberia. Immunoresponsiveness (IR) to sheep red blood cells was assessed by the number of antibody‐producing cells in the spleen. The use of a generalized linear model to analyze the effects of species, sex, year of research, and season of withdrawal of individuals from nature on IR showed a significant effect of species identity, season of animal capture, and the interaction of species with season. The RBV demonstrated higher immune responses during a year, and both species had higher IR in winter. Suppression of IR in spring was greater, started earlier, and lasted longer (March–May) in GSV. In RBV, immunosuppression was restricted to April. The significant negative within year correlations of IR with body mass and masses of reproductive organs in GSV indicated a trade‐off between AHI and growth and reproduction processes. A probable explanation for the difference between species in the seasonal variation of AHI may be related to the difference in tropho‐energetic requirements of each vole species. GSV is a predominantly herbivorous rodent and its thermoregulation seems less efficient than of RBV. The deeper spring immunosuppression in GSV may explain in part its higher mortality during the season of colds.
The role of a synanthropic bird in the nest niche expansion of a secondary cavity nester to man‐made structures
Authors: Guo Jing‐Chia , Tsai Jo‐Szu , Wang Jhih‐Syuan , Lin Ya‐Wen , Shaner Pei‐Jen Lee , Hung Chih‐Ming
Published: August 2022

Species with similar ecological characters often compete with each other; however, a species may also facilitate the survival or reproduction of another ecologically similar species, although such interaction is rarely documented in birds. Here, we reported a facilitative species interaction between Asian house martins (Delichon dasypus) and russet sparrows (Passer cinnamomeus), both passerines using closed nests, in a montane farming area of Taiwan. We found that Asian house martins constructed dome‐shaped nests in human houses that provided additional nest sites for russet sparrows, secondary cavity nesters with greatly declining populations in Taiwan. Russet sparrows that used house martin nests had reproductive success comparable to those that used artificial nest boxes. However, Asian house martins avoided reclaiming sparrow‐used nests, which reduced their available nest sites. Interestingly, our results imply that man‐made structures may be used as a conservation tool to improve the breeding of the endangered russet sparrows via this facilitative interaction.
Tactile sensor with microcantilevers embedded in fluoroelastomer/PDMS for physical and chemical resistance
Authors: Takahashi Yuji , Takahashi Takumi , Abe Takashi , Noma Haruo , Sohgawa Masayuki
Published: August 2022

This paper addresses physical and chemical resistance evaluation of tactile sensors. We have developed cantilevertype MEMS tactile sensors embedded in the elastomer. In this work, we used a combination of silicone elastomer with excellent mechanical properties and fluoroelastomer with excellent chemical resistance. As a new embedding method for the sensor, we devised a method of embedding with PDMS with low creep and coating with a fluoroelastomer for surface protection. We further performed three evaluations to demonstrate the physical and chemical resistance of sensors. Consequently, using the devised method, we have demonstrated that the sensor with both physical and chemical resistance are feasible.
Ezrin deficiency triggers glial fibrillary acidic protein upregulation and a distinct reactive astrocyte phenotype
Authors: Schacke Stephan , Kirkpatrick Joanna , Stocksdale Amy , Bauer Reinhard , Hagel Christian , Riecken Lars Björn , Morrison Helen
Published: August 2022

Astrocytes are increasingly being recognized as contributors to physiological brain function and behavior. Astrocytes engage in glia‐synaptic interactions through peripheral astrocyte processes, thus modulating synaptic signaling, for example, by handling glutamate removal from the synaptic cleft and (re)provision to axonal terminals. Peripheral astrocyte processes are ultrafine membrane protrusions rich in the membrane‐to‐actin cytoskeleton linker Ezrin, an essential component of in vitro filopodia formation and in vivo peripheral astrocyte process motility. Consequently, it has been postulated that Ezrin significantly contributes to neurodevelopment as well as astrocyte functions within the adult brain. However, while Ezrin has been studied in vitro within cultured primary astrocytes, in vivo studies on the role of Ezrin in astrocytes remain to be conducted and consequences of its depletion to be studied. Here, we investigated consequences of Ezrin deletion in the mouse brain starting from early neuronal specification. While Ezrin knockout did not impact prenatal cerebral cortex development, behavioral phenotyping depicted reduced exploratory behavior. Starting with postnatal appearance of glia cells, Ezrin was verified to remain predominantly expressed in astrocytes. Proteome analysis of Ezrin deficient astrocytes revealed alterations in glutamate and ion homeostasis, metabolism and cell morphology – important processes for synaptic signal transmission. Notably, Ezrin deletion in astrocytes provoked (GFAP) glial fibrillary acidic protein upregulation – a marker of astrocyte activation and reactive astrogliosis. However, this spontaneous, reactive astrogliosis exhibited proteome changes distinct from ischemic‐induced reactive astrogliosis. Moreover, in experimental ischemic stroke, Ezrin knockout mice displayed reduced infarct volume, indicating a protective effect of the Ezrin deletion‐induced changes and astrogliosis.
Healing the past, reimagining the present, investing in the future: What should be the role of race as a proxy covariate in health economics informed health care policy?
Authors: Briggs Andrew H.
Published: August 2022

In this perspective, the assertion that race‐free risk assessment would harm patients of all races is critiqued from the viewpoint that race is not just another covariate in our arsenal. Although race may be associated with outcome, it is nevertheless a proxy for a myriad of other potential explanatory variables that could be genetic/biological but in many circumstances are more likely to be sociological/socioeconomic. It is argued that the pursuit of health maximization through the use of socially constructed variables like race must be done sensitively, recognizing that racial covariates in the medical arena can be subject to structural, institutional or personal biases. Even when such biases are thought to be minimized, the appearance of such bias may be sufficient to justify the removal of its use, particularly where employing a racial covariate could further increase existing disparities. While racial covariates may have descriptive value in helping to understand such disparities, it is beholden on the scientific community to explore alternatives to racial covariates that may provide the same or perhaps even better prognostic value in our analyses.
Old‐age dependency and catastrophic health expenditure: Evidence from Longitudinal Ageing Study in India
Authors: Mohanty Sanjay K. , Sahoo Umakanta , Rashmi Rashmi
Published: August 2022

Background

Out‐of‐pocket (OOP) payments and catastrophic health expenditure (CHE) have a strong age gradient. Though studies have examined the socio‐demographic and geographic inequality in OOP payments and CHE in India, the role of old‐age dependency in financial catastrophe remains unclear. Disaggregated estimates of CHE by the level of old‐age dependency of households may help identify the most vulnerable sub‐group and provide evidence for specific policies for the financial protection and health care of the elderly. The present study aims to estimate the incidence and intensity of CHE by the old‐age dependency of households among middle‐aged adults and the elderly in India.

Methods

A total of 42,949 households from the Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI), 2017–18, covering households with at least one‐member aged 45+ years, were included in the analysis. Households were classified into three mutually exclusive groups: no old‐age dependency, low old‐age dependency, and high old‐age dependency. The incidence and intensity of CHE were estimated using the capacity‐to‐pay (CTP) approach. Concentration indices and concentration curves examine the extent of socioeconomic inequality in CHE. Binary logistic regression helps to understand the potential predictors of CHE across each type of old‐age‐dependent household.

Results

We estimated the overall incidence of CHE at 24.6% (95% CI: 23.3–25.8) among middle‐aged adults and the elderly in India. The incidence was 33.2% (95% CI: 31.4–35.1) among households with high old‐age dependency, 23.1% (95% CI: 20.8–25.5) among those with low old‐age dependency, and 20.4% (95% CI: 19.0–21.7) among no old‐age dependency households. CHE intensity was highest among households with low old‐age dependency compared to those no old‐age dependents. Catastrophic health expenditure was higher among the poorer households in each type of old‐age dependency. Among all households, the odds of incurring CHE were higher among households with high old‐age dependency (AOR: 1.52; 95% CI: 1.36–1.69) than those with no old‐age dependency. Lower‐income households, households with pensions as the main source of income, households belonging to scheduled castes, and households residing in rural areas had higher odds of incurring CHE. The co‐variates of CHE varied significantly across the type of old‐age dependency households. A household's enrolment into a health insurance scheme did not necessarily lower its CHE.

Conclusion

Households with high old‐age dependency had a higher probability of incurring CHE in India. Providing preventive and curative geriatric care in primary health centres (PHC) is recommended.