bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cathodic electroorganic reaction on silicon oxide dielectric electrode
Authors: Shin Samuel J. , Park Sangmee , Lee Jin-Young , Lee Jae Gyeong , Yun Jeongse , Hwang Dae-Woong , Chung Taek Dong
Published: December 2020

Significance

The electrochemical reaction at the insulator is extraordinary. Despite its counterintuitiveness, it is made possible by using a silicon oxide dielectric electrode as the cathode. In this study, we use such a dielectric electrode to enable a version of electroorganic reaction. Interestingly, the
oxidized
products are produced at the
cathode
in the case of anthracene and its derivatives. Besides, normal reduction also occurred in the case of nitrobenzene. We suggest the electrochemically generated hydrogen species, supposedly the hydrogen atom, is responsible for this phenomenon. This is the first case to use such a reagent in the mild electrochemical system, and this reaction may be applied to a synthetic strategy for organic molecules.
Bistability in the redox chemistry of sediments and oceans
Authors: van de Velde Sebastiaan J. , Reinhard Christopher T. , Ridgwell Andy , Meysman Filip J. R.
Published: December 2020

Significance

Changes in ocean redox chemistry are frequently observed in Earth’s history and have fundamental implications for the evolution of marine life. These transitions are commonly ascribed to large changes in the supply of iron, sulfur, or organic carbon in the deeper ocean. We propose that small variations in carbon input flux can drive nonreversible redox changes of the ocean interior and other anoxic systems, such as marine sediments. Nonlinear interactions in the iron and sulfur cycles create tipping points where regime shifts can occur between alternative stable states that are either iron dominated or sulfide dominated. The recognition that the biogeochemistry of sediments and oceans embeds intrinsic bistability provides a conceptual framework for understanding past and present anoxic marine systems.
Engineering 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase improves grain yield in heat-stressed maize
Authors: Ribeiro Camila , Hennen-Bierwagen Tracie A. , Myers Alan M. , Cline Kenneth , Settles A. Mark
Published: December 2020

Significance

Heat stress reduces yield in maize by affecting the number of kernels that develop and the accumulation of seed storage molecules during grain fill. Climate change is expected to increase frequency and duration of high-temperature stress, which will lower grain yields. Here we show that one enzyme in central carbon metabolism is sensitive to high temperatures. By providing a heat-resistant form of the enzyme in the correct subcellular compartment, a larger number of kernels develop per plant during heat stress in the field. This genetic improvement could be included as part of integrated approaches to mitigate yield losses due to climate change.
Poststroke acute dysexecutive syndrome, a disorder resulting from minor stroke due to disruption of network dynamics
Authors: Marsh Elisabeth B. , Brodbeck Christian , Llinas Rafael H. , Mallick Dania , Kulasingham Joshua P. , Simon Jonathan Z. , Llinás Rodolfo R.
Published: December 2020

Significance

Patients with small infarcts often demonstrate a poststroke acute dysexecutive syndrome resulting in failure to successfully re-integrate into society. The mechanism is poorly understood given that lesions are small and do not typically involve areas classically associated with cognitive decline. This knowledge gap makes designing treatment strategies difficult. We used MEG to evaluate changes in cerebral processing in individuals with small strokes. MEG showed a decrease in the amplitude of activation and temporal dispersion of activation peaks in areas responsible for visual word processing, along with an inability to modulate activity in response to task difficulty. These changes suggest disruption of network dynamics resulting in inefficient processing. Functional connectivity studies to isolate affected networks are the critical next step.
Deep learning extended depth-of-field microscope for fast and slide-free histology
Authors: Jin Lingbo , Tang Yubo , Wu Yicheng , Coole Jackson B. , Tan Melody T. , Zhao Xuan , Badaoui Hawraa , Robinson Jacob T. , Williams Michelle D. , Gillenwater Ann M. , Richards-Kortum Rebecca R. , Veeraraghavan Ashok
Published: December 2020

Significance

Traditional microscopy suffers from a fixed trade-off between depth-of-field (DOF) and spatial resolution—the higher the desired spatial resolution, the narrower the DOF. We present DeepDOF, a computational microscope that allows us to break free from this constraint and achieve >5× larger DOF while retaining cellular-resolution imaging—obviating the need for z-scanning and significantly reducing the time needed for imaging. The key ingredients that allow this advance are 1) an optimized phase mask placed at the microscope aperture; and 2) a deep-learning-based algorithm that turns sensor data into high-resolution, large-DOF images. DeepDOF offers an inexpensive means for fast and slide-free histology, suited for improving tissue sampling during intraoperative assessment and in resource-constrained settings.
Nonadiabatic coupling of the dynamical structure to the superconductivity in YSr
2
Cu
2.75
Mo
0.25
O
7.54
and Sr
2
CuO
3.3
Authors: Conradson Steven D. , Geballe Theodore H. , Jin Chang-Qing , Cao Li-Peng , Gauzzi Andrea , Karppinen Maarit , Baldinozzi Gianguido , Li Wen-Min , Gilioli Edmondo , Jiang Jack M. , Latimer Matthew , Mueller Oliver , Nasretdinova Venera
Published: December 2020

Significance

The Cu extended X-ray absorption fine structure of YSr
2
Cu
2.75
Mo
0.25
O
7.54
(with superconducting critical temperature, T
c
, = 84 K) and Sr
2
CuO
3.3
(T
c
= 95 K) through their superconducting transitions demonstrates that the common factor in superconductivity in cuprates, including those prepared by high-pressure oxygenation, is an internal quantum tunneling polaron in its dynamical structure. In addition, Sr
2
CuO
3.3
is the first material to show a concomitant transformation in this structure involving atom displacements >1 Å that would be expected to modify its Fermi surface, which would complicate the transition beyond a purely electronic one consisting of the pairing of electrons of opposite momentum across fixed electronic states.
True Griceanism: Filling the Gaps in Callender and Cohen’s Account of Scientific Representation
Authors: Ruyant Quentin
Published: December 2020

Callender and Cohen have proposed to apply a “Gricean strategy” to the constitution problem of scientific representation. They suggest that scientific representation can be reduced to stipulation by epistemic agents. This account has been criticized for not making a distinction between symbolic and epistemic representation and not taking into account the communal aspects of representation. These criticisms would not apply if Grice’s actual strategy were properly employed. I transpose Grice’s strategy to epistemic representation. The main novelty of the resulting account is a distinction between contextual representational use and general representational status, which I address using the notion of indexicality.
A volume measurement method for pneumatic pressure vessels using compressed-air discharge
Authors: Peng Jiehong , Tadano Kotaro , Takeishi Hisami , Kagawa Toshiharu
Published: December 2020

In pneumatic systems, the volume of a pressure vessel can be assumed to be analogous to pneumatic capacitance, and is an important parameter that governs the pressure response of the system. Therefore, an accurate and high-fidelity volume measurement is an indispensable requirement for a high-precision pressure response system. However, in measurement of the volume of pneumatic pressure vessels, the conventional drainage method is inefficient, and may cause damage to the surfaces of the vessel. This paper proposes a new method that uses compressed-air discharge for volume measurement of pneumatic pressure vessels. The primary measurement equipment merely comprises an orifice and a pressure sensor. A formula that calculates the measured volume is obtained based on curves demonstrating the change in pressure derived as part of the experimental analysis conducted in this study. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, volumes of three test tanks, considered as pneumatic pressure vessels, were measured using this method. The measurement exercise was performed using three orifices, the effective areas of which were measured in advance. Through use of the proposed method, the error in volume measurement is found to be maintained below approximately 4% by selecting an appropriate shut pressure and orifice diameter. Additionally, the method offers other advantages of being convenient to use, fast, and low cost, as well as non-damaging and non-corrosive to the pressure vessel.
Microstructural evolution in self-catalyzed GaAs nanowires during in-situ TEM study
Authors: Gang Geun Won , Lee Jong Hoon , Kim Su Yeon , Jeong Taehyeon , Bin Kim Kyung , Thi Hong Men Nguyen , Kim Yu Ra , Ahn Sang Jung , Kim Chung Soo , Kim Young Heon
Published: December 2020

The microstructural evolutions in self-catalyzed GaAs nanowires (NWs) were investigated by using in situ heating transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The morphological changes of the self-catalyst metal gallium (Ga) droplet, the GaAs NWs, and the atomic behavior at the interface between the self-catalyst metal gallium and GaAs NWs were carefully studied by analysis of high-resolution TEM images. The microstructural change of the Ga-droplet/GaAs-NWs started at a low temperature of ∼200 °C. Formation and destruction of atomic layers were observed at the Ga/GaAs interface and slow depletion of the Ga droplet was detected in the temperature range investigated. Above 300 °C, the evolution process dramatically changed with time: The Ga droplet depleted rapidly and fast growth of zinc-blende (ZB) GaAs structures were observed in the droplet. The Ga droplet was completely removed with time and temperature. When the temperature reached ∼600 °C, the decomposition of GaAs was detected. This process began in the wurtzite (WZ) structure and propagated to the ZB structure. The morphological and atomistic behaviors in self-catalyzed GaAs NWs were demonstrated based on thermodynamic considerations, in addition to the effect of the incident electron beam in TEM. Finally, GaAs decomposition was demonstrated in terms of congruent vaporization.
Superconducting protector against electromagnetic pulses based on YBCO film prepared on an Al2O3 substrate with a CeO2 sublayer
Authors: Vertelis V , Stankevic T , Balevicius S , Stankevic V , Zurauskiene N , Plausinaitiene V , Tolvaisiene S , Schneider M , Simkevicius C
Published: December 2020

The electric and magnetic properties of microbridges made from 440 nm thick Y–Ba–Cu–O films prepared on Al2O3 substrates with CeO2 sublayers by the pulsed injection metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) method were studied in temperatures ranging from 20 K to 300 K in order to investigate the possibilities of using these microbridges as fast fault current limiters. The application of an external magnetic field (

B

ex

) causes the flux flow induced magneto-resistive effect, which is proportional to

B

ex

and to

B

ex

1

/

2

at low and high temperatures, respectively. The experimentally obtained S-shaped I–V characteristic and the change of the microbridge resistance over time when affected by a step-like magnetic field can be well explained using a thermo-electrical model based on Joule heating and the flux flow nature of the resistive state (RS). The transition from the superconducting to the RS, studied using ns duration rectangular waveform electrical pulses able to create up to ≈2106 A cm−2 current densities without rises of microbridge temperatures, demonstrated that the I–V characteristics of the RSs consisting of an assembly of straight lines corresponding to the different pinning centers. At temperatures close to the critical temperature of superconductivity, the number of these lines increases, and the I–V characteristics can be described with high accuracy by a power law. It was concluded that microbridges made from these films can be used as protectors against complicated waveform electromagnetic pulses having short rise times, high voltage peak amplitudes and long low-value over-current ‘tails’.
Reliable 4.8 T trapped magnetic fields in Gd–Ba–Cu–O bulk superconductors using pulsed field magnetization
Authors: Zhou Difan , Srpcic Jan , Huang Kaiyuan , Ainslie Mark , Shi Yunhua , Dennis Anthony , Boll Martin , Filipenko Mykhaylo , Cardwell David , Durrell John
Published: December 2020

A robust and reliable in-situ magnetization method is essential for exploiting the outstanding magnetic flux trapping ability of bulk superconductors in practical applications. We report a 4.8 T peak trapped magnetic field, B
T, achieved at 30 K in a 36 mm diameter GdBa2Cu3O7-δ
–Ag bulk superconductor using pulsed field magnetization (PFM). To realize this, we have developed a reliable two-step multi-pulse PFM process based on understanding and exploiting the avalanche-like flux jump phenomenon observed in these materials. The magnitude of the applied pulsed magnetic field (B
a) necessary to trap 4.8 T was merely 5.29 T, corresponding to a remarkable magnetization efficiency (B
T/B
a) of 90%.
On the effect of repulsive pair interactions on Bose–Einstein condensation in the Luttinger–Sy model
Authors: Kerner Joachim , Pechmann Maximilian
Published: December 2020

In this paper we investigate the effect of repulsive pair interactions on Bose–Einstein condensation in a well-established random one-dimensional system known as the Luttinger–Sy model at positive temperature. We study separately hard core interactions as well as a class of more general repulsive interactions, also allowing for a scaling of certain interaction parameters in the thermodynamic limit. As a main result, we prove in both cases that for sufficiently strong interactions all eigenstates of the non-interacting one-particle Luttinger–Sy Hamiltonian are

P

\mathbb {P}

-almost surely not macroscopically occupied. We also outline an extension of the results to sufficiently localized one-particle states.
Isomorphisms of graded path algebras
Authors: Gaddis Jason
Published: December 2020

We prove that if two path algebras with homogeneous relations are isomorphic as algebras, then they are isomorphic as graded path algebras. This extends a result by Bell and Zhang in the connected case.
On the convergence of sequences of positive linear operators and functionals on bounded function spaces
Authors: Altomare Francesco
Published: December 2020

Of concern are some simple criteria about the convergence of sequences of positive linear operators and functionals in the framework of spaces of bounded functions which are continuous on a given subset of their domain.

Among other things some applications concerning the behaviour of the iterates of Bernstein operators defined both on

[
0
,
1
]

[0,1]

and on the

d
d

-dimensional simplex and hypercube

(
d
≥
1
)

(d\geq 1)

are discussed.

A final section treats the behaviour of integrated arithmetic means with respect to a probability Borel measure on a convex compact subset

K
K

of a locally convex space. As a consequence a general weak law of large numbers for sequences of

K
−

K-

valued random variables is derived.
When Global Becomes Municipal: US Cities Localizing Unratified International Human Rights Law
Authors: Haddad Heidi Nichols
Published: December 2020

International human rights law is most efficacious when it is both incorporated into domestic law and translated into local contexts. Yet, cities as independent implementers of unratified international law have received limited scholarly attention. This article examines such renegade municipal localization of international law through an analysis of San Francisco and Los Angeles’s binding ordinances implementing the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) – a treaty to which the United States in not a party. The analysis demonstrates that municipal ordinances in US charter cities are robust legal mechanisms that can help actualize human rights in large urban populations, despite national inaction. Nonetheless, municipal localization of unratified international law – in both the content of the ordinances and their implementation over time – is driven predominantly by local context and city politics rather than conformity to the international treaty on which the ordinances are based. While this importantly demonstrates that unratified international law can be made relevant to cities, the insularity of local ordinances can also result in limited accountability for non-implementation and the ordinances evolving apart from international treaty developments.
Spousal Activity Limitations and Depressive Symptoms: Benefits of Spousal Caregiving and Costs of Spousal Pain
Authors: Han Sae Hwang , Kim Kyungmin , Burr Jeffrey
Published: December 2020

Experiencing difficulties in performing basic activities of daily living poses significant challenges for older adults living with such limitations and also for their spouses. A growing body of evidence demonstrates cross-spousal linkages between activity limitations and depressive symptoms. However, under what conditions these linkages may be strengthened or weakened has received little attention in the literature. We addressed this gap by examining whether a) providing spousal caregiving and b) spousal pain moderated the link between spousal activity limitations and one’s own depressive symptoms. We used seven waves of longitudinal household data from the Health and Retirement Study (2004-2016; N=12,369) to estimate within-person associations between spousal activity limitations and depressive symptoms, focusing on the moderating roles of caregiving behavior and spousal pain. In particular, asymmetric fixed effects models were used to estimate the unique effects of transitioning into a spousal caregiver role in the context of spousal activity limitations. Results from multilevel models were gendered. For wives (but not for husbands), transitioning into a caregiver role to provide spousal care alleviated depressive symptoms associated with spousal activity limitations, whereas depressive symptoms were increased when husbands with activity limitations also reported frequent, moderate to severe pain. Our findings indicate that the link between spousal activity limitations and depressive symptoms is not uniform, and that the cross-spousal association may best be understood when relevant contextual factors are considered. The findings are also in line with recent studies showing that caregiving may also lead to enhanced well-being and reduced mortality risk under some circumstances.
Positive Aspects of Caregiving Among Family Caregivers of Individuals With Dementia
Authors: Asirot Mary Grace , Papazyan Anna , Song Yeonsu
Published: December 2020

Traditionally, caregiving for individuals with dementia has been viewed as a negative experience. Understanding positive aspect of caregiving and related factors is important to improve health among family caregivers. We analyzed baseline data from an ongoing dyadic sleep education trial for individuals with dementia and their caregivers (N=21 dyads; mean age 70.8± 11.1 for caregivers, 80.5± 8.3 for care-recipients). The Positive Aspects of Caregiving (PAC 9-item) was used to assess subjective satisfaction with caregiving. Other measures included Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), SF-12 Health Survey (SF-12v2), Revised Memory and Behavior Problems Checklist (RMBPC), and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Pearson correlations and t-tests were calculated for analyses. Caregivers most frequently endorsed that caregiving enabled them to appreciate life more (n=16 agreed a lot). Caregivers who began providing care within the first few months of the care-recipient needing care (n=16) had greater positive aspects of caregiving than those who started providing care sometime later (n=5) (36.37±7.33 versus 25.8±8.29, p=0.01). Caregivers with higher PAC scores had lower ZBI score (r=-0.49, p=0.02), better mental health on the SF-12v2 (r=0.53, p=0.01), less distress related to care-recipient behaviors on the RMBPC (r=-0.50, p=0.02), and lower PSQI subscale (perceived sleep quality) score (r= -0.46, p=0.04). Findings suggest that higher positive caregiving experience was associated with better mental health and sleep quality, and less burden and distress from the care-recipients behaviors. More research is needed to better understand this relationship and to determine possible interventions to increase positive aspects of caregiving.
CNAs’ Ratings of Nursing Home Residents’ Pain: The Role of CNA and Resident Traits
Authors: Behrens Emily , Noh Hyunjin , Snow A Lynn , Parmelee Patricia
Published: December 2020

Long-term care residents with and without cognitive impairment may experience undertreatment of persistent pain (Fain et. al, 2017). Certified nursing assistants (CNAs) are important sources of information about resident pain as they provide the majority of residents’ hands-on care. Therefore, assessing the accuracy of CNAs’ pain assessments and potential influencing factors may provide insight regarding the undertreatment of pain. Informed by prior research, this study examined resident pain catastrophizing and cognitive status as predictors of CNAs’ pain assessment accuracy. CNA empathy was examined as a moderating variable. Analyses confirmed a relationship between pain catastrophizing and CNA pain rating accuracy (R^2 = .205, p < .01), reflecting lower accuracy of ratings for residents higher in catastrophizing. Hypotheses predicting a relationship between resident cognitive status and CNA pain rating accuracy and moderating effects of empathy were disconfirmed. Challenges of conducting research in long-term care are discussed.
Video Intervention to Increase Knowledge About and Interest in Palliative Care Among MSW Students
Authors: Berkman Cathy
Published: December 2020

As the population ages and more people live longer with chronic and life-limiting illnesses, more healthcare professionals with palliative care skills are needed. Social workers are part of the palliative care team, but there is little, if any, content on palliative and end-of-life care in MSW programs. A 24-minute video featuring nine palliative and hospice social workers was produced with two goals: 1) increase knowledge of social work students about palliative and end-of-life care; and 2) interest social work students in a career in palliative social work. MSW students from three schools, in NY and Alabama, viewed the video. After viewing the video, 94 students participated in the mixed methods study, completing the brief, anonymous, online survey. The mean level of understanding about what palliative social workers do, rated from 1 (no understanding) to 5 (very good understanding), was 2.96 (SD=.99) before viewing the video and 4.31 (SD=.61) after, for an increase of 1.35 points (95% CI=1.14, 1.55) (p<.001). The mean level of interest in a career in palliative care social work and working with seriously ill persons and their family members, rated from 1 (Not at all interested) to 5 (Extremely interested), was 2.52 (SD=.99) before viewing the video and 3.45 SD=.80) after, for an increase of .91 points (95% CI=.79, 1.07) (p<.001). Qualitative data supporting the quantitative findings will be presented. This study suggests that a video intervention may be an effective tool to increase knowledge and interest in palliative and end-of-life care among social work students.
Leveraging Assistive Technology Resources to Support Aging in Place: A Scoping Study
Authors: Mois George , Beer Jenay
Published: December 2020

Aging in place is the preferred living arrangement for most older adults. However, the challenges that often accompany longevity coupled with housing which lacks proper modifications presents concerns about older adults’ safety and wellbeing. Advancements in assistive technologies have promising potential in helping address many of these challenges and support aging in place. The purpose of this scoping review was to survey the current literature to understand why, how, and what assistive technologies are adopted and utilized to help support aging in place. We followed the Arksey and O’Malley (2005) methodological framework for scoping studies, searching seven databases and systematically assessed 611 titles/articles. Findings were organized using frequencies and themes. Following the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 12 articles were included. Upon thematic analysis, three main themes emerged: 1.) challenges experienced in the context of aging in place, 2.) technology adoption, and 3.) technology types and applications. Findings indicate technology can serve an important role in helping support aging in place and can serve as a medium to deliver and increase access to resources to support physical, social, and psychological wellbeing. The technologies most frequently utilized include personal devices and smart home technologies. The adoption and use of technologies can be impacted by the perceived ease of use, perceived usability, family/caregiver, self-selection, involvement in technology development, policies supporting access, and environment factors. Our findings indicate that there is a current gap in the understanding of how older adults are interacting with technology and how long term use impacts wellbeing and aging in place.
The Inventory of Physical Activity Barriers: Development and Preliminary Validation
Authors: Wingood Mariana , Gell Nancy , Peters Denise , Hutchins Tiffany
Published: December 2020

Inactivity levels among community-dwelling adults 50 years and older is a healthcare concern, particularly when examining the association between increasing age, inactivity, and risk of non-communicable diseases. To confront this concern, healthcare providers need to address the reasons for inactivity. Unfortunately, limited tools exist to address barriers of physical activity (PA). The purpose of our study was to develop and psychometrically evaluate a PA barrier scale for adults 50 years and older. The scale is called the Inventory of Physical Activity Barriers (IPAB) and it was developed, refined, and evaluated using a cross-sectional and a modified Delphi study. We had two groups of participants: 39 adults (50 years and older) provided survey pilot data for psychometric evaluation, and nine interprofessional PA experts assisted with finalizing the scale. Participants completed a demographic questionnaire, Physical Activity Vital Sign questionnaire, and IPAB. The IPAB’s refinement was guided by item-scale correlations, descriptive statistics, and consensus among the PA experts. Construct validity was examined by comparing mean IPAB scores of inactive and active participants via independent t-test. Internal consistency was assessed via Cronbach Alpha. The IPAB was refined from 172 items to 40 items and found to be internally consistent (α=.97) and able to differentiate individuals who do and do not meet the recommended 150 minutes of weekly PA (p=0.01). These preliminary results show the IPAB is a reliable assessment of PA barriers for adults 50 years and older, and are promising for the scale’s construct validity and support further psychometric evaluation of the tool.
Ability and Performance of Daily Activity for Older Adults With Multiple Chronic Conditions
Authors: Klinedinst Tara , Rodakowski Juleen
Published: December 2020

Older adults with multiple chronic conditions (MCC), and especially with added depression, have lower levels of daily activity than those without MCC. Engagement in daily activities can be measured by ability (what individuals can do) and performance (what individuals actually do). Understanding this difference is critical to developing interventions that align with the daily activity needs of older adults with MCC. The aim of this study was to understand the relationships between ability and performance of instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) among older adults with varied MCC and depression status. We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the National Health and Aging Trends Study. We used MANOVA to detect differences in ability and performance of IADL by MCC status and t-tests to test the difference between ability and performance for our sample. There was an effect of MCC status on ability and performance for older adults in this sample, F (10,13386) = 67.12, p < .001, ηp2 = .05; performance and ability were lowest for MM-D, and highest for no MCC. Post-hoc t-tests revealed a difference between the mean scores for ability (M = .79, SD = .29) and performance (M = .92, SD = .23) across all groups of MCC status, t (6693) = -50.174, p < .001. Older adults with MCC, particularly with depression, displayed diminished performance of IADL, although they have the ability. Our results suggest interventions should not only address what individuals can do, but also what they actually do in their context.
An Advance Care Planning Group Visit Intervention for Individuals With Mild Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Daddato Andrea , Shanbhag Prajakta , Bettcher Brianne , Lum Hillary
Published: December 2020

Among older adults without cognitive impairment, a novel advance care planning group visit (ACP-GV) intervention increased ACP documentation and readiness to engage in ACP. A key question is whether an intervention can be adapted to support people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and a family care partner. We used a human-centered design process, rapid-cycle prototyping, and qualitative methods to adapt an ACP-GV intervention to individuals with MCI and a study partner. In 2019, we convened a longitudinal cohort of six patient-study partner stakeholders in three focus groups to suggest intervention adaptations. We also conducted a single arm study of four ACP-GV interventions (n=13 dyads total) that were iteratively refined with input from the longitudinal focus groups and intervention participant feedback. Decision tools, resources and videos were used to describe the concept of ACP and flexibility in selecting a medical decision maker. Many ACP-GV participants strongly agreed that the group discussion gave them useful information (81%) and would recommend the ACP-GV to a friend (85%). Pre- and post-ACP readiness surveys indicated that participants were significantly more ready to talk to their medical decision maker about ACP (p=0.028), while study partners perceived their loved ones less ready to speak to their doctor about ACP following the intervention (p=0.031). Use of rapid prototyping allowed testing of different resources and tools aimed at helping individuals with MCI and their study partners discuss ACP. Future work is needed to understand the feasibility of implementing an ACP-GV intervention for individuals with MCI into clinical settings.
Dementia-Related Anxiety and General Illness Anxiety Differ Based on Familial Exposure to Persons With Dementia
Authors: Fenstermacher Erika , Ebert Alexandria , Shook Natalie , Lee Jerin , Wilson Jenna , Haliwa Ilana
Published: December 2020

Dementia-related anxiety is a specific form of illness anxiety that has been associated with familial exposure to persons with dementia (FMwDs). However, it is unknown whether FMwDs is specifically associated with dementia-related anxiety or whether it is also related to general illness anxiety, which has broader health implications. Furthermore, the level of exposure to family members with dementia may matter. Thus, we examined whether level of familial exposure to dementia was related to general illness anxiety and dementia-related anxiety. Participants (N = 401) aged 18-76 years (M = 39) recruited through Amazon’s Mechanical Turk completed an online survey. Dementia exposure was split into three levels: (1) not knowing a friend/family member with dementia (55.2%); (2) knowing a family member with dementia (33.9%); and (3) providing care for a family member with dementia (10.9%). Familial exposure to dementia was related to both general illness anxiety and dementia-related anxiety. Participants who provided care for FMwDs had significantly higher levels of illness anxiety than both people who had a FMwD and people who did not (ps < .001). Similarly, participants who provided care for FMwDs had significantly higher levels of dementia-related anxiety than participants who did not have a FMwD (p < .01). Caregivers play a critical role in the quality of life of those with dementia, however it is clear that the potential psychological impact of such work is pervasive. This study provides a foundation to explore differences between illness anxiety and dementia worry, and examine interventions to reduce anxiety among caregivers.
Effect of Rosuvastatin Therapy on Biomarkers of Inflammation and Immune Activation in People With Human Immunodeficiency Virus at Intermediate Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Hearps Anna C , Angelovich Thomas A , Trevillyan Janine M , Wong Michelle E , Calmy Alexandra , Hoy Jennifer F , Jaworowski Anthony
Published: December 2020

Background

Statins may help prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) in people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH) with chronic inflammation owing to their pleotropic lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory properties.

Methods

The impact of 48 weeks of rosuvastatin therapy on inflammation and immune activation in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in PWH at moderate cardiovascular disease risk was assessed.

Results

Rosuvastatin did not alter plasma levels of interleukin 6, soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor type 2, CXCL10, soluble CD14, or soluble vascular cellular adhesion molecule 1 (P ≥ .1 for all). Proportions of CD16+ monocyte subsets were increased in PWH receiving rosuvastatin.

Conclusions

The potential benefits of statin use in PWH with normal lipid levels requires further clinical outcome research.
Magnetic field and chromospheric activity evolution of HD 75332: a rapid magnetic cycle in an F star without a hot Jupiter
Authors: Brown E L , Marsden S C , Mengel M W , Jeffers S V , Millburn I , Mittag M , Petit P , Vidotto A A , Morin J , See V , Jardine M , González-Pérez J N ,   The BCool Collaboration
Published: December 2020

Studying cool star magnetic activity gives an important insight into the stellar dynamo and its relationship with stellar properties, as well as allowing us to place the Sun’s magnetism in the context of other stars. Only 61 Cyg A (K5V) and τ Boo (F8V) are currently known to have magnetic cycles like the Sun’s, where the large-scale magnetic field polarity reverses in phase with the star’s chromospheric activity cycles. τ Boo has a rapid ∼240 d magnetic cycle, and it is not yet clear whether this is related to the star’s thin convection zone or if the dynamo is accelerated by interactions between τ Boo and its hot Jupiter. To shed light on this, we studied the magnetic activity of HD 75332 (F7V) which has similar physical properties to τ Boo and does not appear to host a hot Jupiter. We characterized its long-term chromospheric activity variability over 53 yr and used Zeeman Doppler Imaging to reconstruct the large-scale surface magnetic field for 12 epochs between 2007 and 2019. Although we observe only one reversal of the large-scale magnetic dipole, our results suggest that HD 75332 has a rapid ∼1.06 yr solar-like magnetic cycle where the magnetic field evolves in phase with its chromospheric activity. If a solar-like cycle is present, reversals of the large-scale radial field polarity are expected to occur at around activity cycle maxima. This would be similar to the rapid magnetic cycle observed for τ Boo, suggesting that rapid magnetic cycles may be intrinsic to late-F stars and related to their shallow convection zones.
A Preoperative Contingency Management Intervention for Smoking Abstinence in Cancer Patients: A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rojewski Alana M , Fucito Lisa M , Baker Nathaniel L , Krishnan-Sarin Suchitra , Carpenter Matthew J , Bernstein Steven L , Toll Benjamin A
Published: December 2020

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate a pilot preoperative contingency management (CM) intervention for smoking abstinence.

Aims and Methods

This multisite pilot study was conducted at two cancer center-based tobacco treatment programs. Participants who were smoking, diagnosed with or suspected to have any type of operable cancer, and had a surgical procedure scheduled in the next 10 days to 5 weeks (N = 40) were randomized to receive standard care plus monitoring only (MO) or CM prior to surgery. All patients received breath carbon monoxide (CO) tests 3 times per week, nicotine patches, and counseling. The CM group also earned payments for self-reported smoking abstinence confirmed by CO breath test ≤6 ppm on an escalating schedule of reinforcement (with a reset if they smoked). Seven-day point prevalence abstinence rates on the day of surgery and at 3-month follow-up were compared between groups using repeated measures log-linear regression models utilizing generalized estimating equations. Participants lost to follow-up are assumed to have returned to smoking.

Results

The sample was 50% female and 75% White. In covariate adjusted models, patients in the CM group had a greater probability of reported abstinence. On the day of surgery (end of treatment), 52% of CM patients were abstinent compared with 16% of patients in MO (risk ratio = 3.2 [1.1–9.3]; p = .03). At the 3-month follow-up, 43% of CM patients were abstinent compared with 5% in MO (risk ratio = 8.4 [1.5–48.3]; p = .02).

Conclusions

Providing monetary incentives contingent on abstinence prior to cancer surgery may produce significant improvements in smoking abstinence rates relative to breath CO MO.

Implications

In this pilot preoperative CM intervention for smoking abstinence, patients receiving a CM intervention prior to cancer surgery had a greater probability of smoking abstinence at the end of treatment compared with a breath MO group (52% vs. 16%, respectively). Thus, providing monetary incentives contingent on abstinence may produce significant improvements in smoking abstinence rates prior to cancer surgery relative to breath CO monitoring.
Two independent mouse lines carrying the Nav1.7 I228M gain-of-function variant display dorsal root ganglion neuron hyperexcitability but a minimal pain phenotype
Authors: Chen Lubin , Wimalasena Nivanthika K. , Shim Jaehoon , Han Chongyang , Lee Seong-Il , Gonzalez-Cano Rafael , Estacion Mark , Faber Catharina G. , Lauria Giuseppe , Dib-Hajj Sulayman D. , Woolf Clifford J. , Waxman Stephen G.
Published: December 2020

Small-fiber neuropathy (SFN), characterized by distal unmyelinated or thinly myelinated fiber loss, produces a combination of sensory dysfunction and neuropathic pain. Gain-of-function variants in the sodium channel Nav1.7 that produce dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neuron hyperexcitability are present in 5% to 10% of patients with idiopathic painful SFN. We created 2 independent knock-in mouse lines carrying the Nav1.7 I228M gain-of-function variant, found in idiopathic SFN. Whole-cell patch-clamp and multielectrode array recordings show that Nav1.7 I228M knock-in DRG neurons are hyperexcitable compared with wild-type littermate-control neurons, but despite this, Nav1.7 I228M mice do not display mechanical or thermal hyperalgesia or intraepidermal nerve fiber loss in vivo. Therefore, although these 2 Nav1.7 I228M knock-in mouse lines recapitulate the DRG neuron hyperexcitability associated with gain-of-function mutations in Nav1.7, they do not recapitulate the pain or neuropathy phenotypes seen in patients. We suggest that the relationship between hyperexcitability in sensory neurons and the pain experienced by these patients may be more complex than previously appreciated and highlights the challenges in modelling channelopathy pain disorders in mice.
A 3-Decade Analysis of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma After Solid Organ Transplant
Authors: Corral Juan E. , Croome Kristopher P. , Keaveny Andrew P. , Brahmbhatt Bhaumik , Kröner Paul T. , Wijarnpreecha Karn , Goswami Rohan M. , Raimondo Massimo , Wallace Michael B. , Bi Yan , Mousa Omar Y.
Published: December 2020

Objective

Solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients have moderately increased risk of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PAC). We evaluated the incidence and survival of PAC in 2 cohorts and aimed to identify potential risk factors.

Methods

This study performed a retrospective cohort analysis. Cohort A was extracted from the United Network of Organ Sharing data set and cohort B from SOT recipients evaluated at 3 Mayo Clinic transplant centers. The primary outcome was age-adjusted annual incidence of PAC. Descriptive statistics, hazard ratios, and survival rates were compared.

Results

Cohort A and cohort B included 617,042 and 29,472 SOT recipients, respectively. In cohort A, the annual incidence rate was 12.78 per 100,000 in kidney-pancreas, 13.34 in liver, and 21.87 in heart-lung transplant recipients. Receiving heart-lung transplant, 50 years or older, and history of cancer (in either recipient or donor) were independent factors associated with PAC. Fifty-two patients developed PAC in cohort B. Despite earlier diagnosis (21.15% with stage I–II), survival rates were similar to those reported for sporadic (non-SOT) patients.

Conclusions

We report demographic and clinical risk factors for PAC after SOT, many of which were present before transplant and are common to sporadic pancreatic cancer. Despite the diagnosis at earlier stages, PAC in SOT portends a very poor survival.
Neurocognitive Effects of Antiretroviral Initiation Among People Living With HIV in Rural Uganda
Authors: Vecchio Alyssa , Robertson Kevin , Saylor Deanna , Nakigozi Gertrude , Nakasujja Noeline , Kisakye Alice , Batte James , Mayanja Richard , Anok Aggrey , Reynolds Steven J. , Quinn Thomas C. , Gray Ronald , Wawer Maria J. , Sacktor Ned , Rubin Leah H.
Published: December 2020

Background:

HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders remain prevalent despite effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), but there are limited longitudinal data on people living with HIV (PLWH) in sub-Saharan Africa. We examined neuropsychological (NP) performance in PLWH in a longitudinal study in Uganda.

Methods:

Participants enrolled through the Rakai Community Cohort Study (400 ART-naive PLWH and 400 matched HIV-negative persons) were administered NP assessments. In 2017, PLWH who had initiated ART underwent a 2-year follow-up assessment. Demographically adjusted Z-scores for each NP test were established using data from the HIV− controls. Multivariable linear and logistic regressions were conducted to examine group differences in NP performance. Mixed-effects regressions were conducted to examine ART-related changes in NP outcomes.

Results:

Of 333 PLWH who returned for their 2-year follow-up visit, 312 (94%) had initiated ART. Those on ART had a mean age of 35.6 years (SD ± 8.5 years) and mean education of 5.4 years (SD ± 3.3 years); 49% were women. ART-associated NP improvements occurred in verbal learning and memory (P's < 0.05), motor (P's < 0.01), and some measures of processing speed (P = 0.002), whereas there were declines in attention/working memory (P's < 0.001) and semantic fluency (P < 0.001). Pre-ART CD4 count and efavirenz use were associated with a more impaired change in NP performance.

Conclusions:

PLWH in this resource-limited setting showed improved neurocognitive performance on most NP tests after ART initiation. However, the declines in attention/working memory and fluency performance, as well as relationship to efavirenz, warrant further study.
Circadian rhythms in bipolar disorder patient-derived neurons predict lithium response
Authors: Mishra Himanshu K. , Ying Noelle M. , Luis Angelica , Wei Heather , Nguyen Metta , Nakhla Timothy , Vandenburgh Sara , Alda Martin , Berrettini Wade H. , Brennand Kristen J. , Calabrese Joseph R. , Coryell William H. , Frye Mark A. , Gage Fred H. , Gershon Elliot S. , McInnis Melvin G. , Nievergelt Caroline M. , Nurnberger John I. , Shilling Paul D. , Oedegaard Ketil J. , Zandi Peter P. ,   The Pharmacogenomics of Bipolar Disorder Study, Kelsoe John R. , Welsh David K , McCarthy Michael J.
Published: December 2020

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a neuropsychiatric disorder with genetic risk factors defined by recurrent episodes of mania/hypomania, depression and circadian rhythm abnormalities. While lithium is an effective drug for BD, 30-40% of patients fail to respond adequately to treatment. Previous work has demonstrated that lithium affects the expression of “clock genes” and that lithium responders (Li-R) can be distinguished from non-responders (Li-NR) by differences in circadian rhythms. However, rhythm abnormalities in BD have not been evaluated in neurons and it is unknown if neuronal rhythms differ between Li-R and Li-NR. We used induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to culture neuronal precursor cells (NPC) and glutamatergic neurons from BD patients and controls. We identified strong circadian rhythms inPer2-lucexpression in NPCs and neurons from controls and Li-R. NPC rhythms in Li-R had a shorter circadian period. Li-NR rhythms were low-amplitude and profoundly weakened. In NPCs and neurons, expression ofPER2was higher in both BD groups compared to controls. In neurons, PER2 protein expression was higher in BD than controls, especially in Li-NR samples. In single cells, NPC and neuron rhythms in both BD groups were desynchronized compared to controls. Lithium lengthened period in Li-R and control neurons but failed to alter rhythms in Li-NR. In contrast, temperature entrainment increased amplitude across all groups, and partly restored rhythms in Li-NR neurons. We conclude that neuronal circadian rhythm abnormalities are present in BD and most pronounced in Li-NR. Rhythm deficits in BD may be partly reversible through stimulation of entrainment pathways.
Whole Genome Sequencing-based Characterization of Human Genome Variation and Mutation Burden in Botswana
Authors: Thami Prisca K. , Choga Wonderful T. , Mulisa Delesa D. , Dandara Collet , Shevchenko Andrey K. , Leteane Melvin M. , Novitsky Vlad , O’Brien Stephen J. , Essex Myron , Gaseitsiwe Simani , Chimusa Emile R.
Published: December 2020

The study of human genome variations can contribute towards understanding population diversity and the genetic aetiology of health-related traits. We sought to characterise human genomic variations of Botswana in order to assess diversity and elucidate mutation burden in the population using whole genome sequencing. Whole genome sequences of 390 unrelated individuals from Botswana were available for computational analysis. The sequences were mapped to the human reference genome GRCh38. Population joint variant calling was performed using Genome Analysis Tool Kit (GATK) and BCFTools. Variant characterisation was achieved by annotating the variants with a suite of databases in ANNOVAR and snpEFF. The genomic architecture of Botswana was delineated through principal component analysis, structure analysis and FST. We identified a total of 27.7 million unique variants. Variant prioritisation revealed 24 damaging variants with the most damaging variants beingACTRT2rs3795263,HOXD12rs200302685,ABCB5rs111647033,ATP8B4rs77004004 andABCC12rs113496237. We observed admixture of the Khoe-San, Niger-Congo and European ancestries in the population of Botswana, however population substructure was not observed. This exploration of whole genome sequences presents a comprehensive characterisation of human genomic variations in the population of Botswana and their potential in contributing to a deeper understanding of population diversity and health in Africa and the African diaspora.