bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The multifaceted hTR telomerase RNA from a structural perspective
Authors: Raghunandan Maya , Decottignies Anabelle
Published: July 2021

Human telomerase progressively emerged as a multifaceted ribonucleoprotein complex with additional functions beyond telomeric repeat synthesis. Both the hTERT catalytic subunit and the hTR long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) subunit are engaged in highly regulated cellular pathways that, together, contribute to cell fitness and protection against apoptosis. We recently described a new role for hTR in regulating the abundance of replication protein A at telomeres, adding to the growing repertoire of hTR’s functions. Here, we focus on the non‐canonical roles of hTR and discuss them in the context of the structural elements of the lncRNA. We propose that some functions of hTR may compete amongst each other through distinct interactions with its partners, proteins or mRNAs. We postulate that hTR’s non‐canonical functions may be highly relevant in the context of normal somatic cells that naturally silence hTERT gene, while keeping hTR expression.
Liquid‐Crystalline Polymer Particles Prepared by Classical Polymerization Techniques
Authors: Liu Xiaohong , Debije Michael G. , Heuts Johan P. A. , Schenning Albert P. H. J.
Published: July 2021

Liquid‐crystalline polymer particles prepared by classical polymerization techniques are receiving increased attention as promising candidates for use in a variety of applications including micro‐actuators, structurally colored objects, and absorbents. These particles have anisotropic molecular order and liquid‐crystalline phases that distinguish them from conventional polymer particles. In this minireview, the preparation of liquid‐crystalline polymer particles from classical suspension, (mini‐)emulsion, dispersion, and precipitation polymerization reactions are discussed. The particle sizes, molecular orientations, and liquid‐crystalline phases produced by each technique are summarized and compared. We conclude with a discussion of the challenges and prospects of the preparation of liquid‐crystalline polymer particles by classical polymerization techniques.
Synthesis of Oligonucleotides Containing Trans Mitomycin C DNA Adducts at N6 of Adenine and N2 of Guanine
Authors: Zacarias Owen , Petrovic Ana G. , Abzalimov Rinat , Pradhan Padmanava , Champeil Elise
Published: July 2021

Mitomycin C, (MC), an antitumor drug, is a DNA alkylating agent currently used in the clinics. Inert in its native form, MC is reduced to reactive mitosenes, which undergo nucleophilic attack by guanine or adenine bases in DNA to form monoadducts as well as interstrand crosslinks (ICLs). Although ICLs are considered the most cytotoxic lesions, the role of each individual adduct in the drug's cytotoxicity is still not fully understood. Synthetic routes have been developed to access modified oligonucleotides containing dG MC‐monoadducts and dG‐MC‐dG ICL at a single position of their base sequences to investigate the biological effects of these adducts. However, until now, oligonucleotides containing monoadducts formed by MC at the adenine base had not been available, thus preventing the examination of the role played by these lesions in the toxicity of MC. Here, we present a route to access these substrates. Structural proof of the adducted oligonucleotides were provided by enzymatic digestion to nucleosides and high‐resolution mass spectral analysis. Additionally, parent oligonucleotides containing a dG monoadduct and a dG‐MC‐dG ICL were also produced. The stability and physical properties of all substrates were compared via CD spectroscopy and UV melting temperature studies. Finally, virtual models were created to explore the conformational space and structural features of these MC‐DNA complexes.
Halogen‐Bonding Strapped Porphyrin BODIPY Rotaxanes for Dual Optical and Electrochemical Anion Sensing
Authors: Cheong Tse Yuen , Hein Robert , Mitchell Edward J. , Zhang Zongyao , Beer Paul D.
Published: July 2021

Anion receptors employing two distinct sensory mechanisms are rare. Herein, we report the first examples of halogen‐bonding porphyrin BODIPY [2]rotaxanes capable of both fluorescent and redox electrochemical sensing of anions. 1H NMR, UV/visible and electrochemical studies revealed rotaxane axle triazole group coordination to the zinc(II) metalloporphyrin‐containing macrocycle component, serves to preorganise the rotaxane binding cavity and dramatically enhances anion binding affinities. Mechanically bonded, integrated‐axle BODIPY and macrocycle strapped metalloporphyrin motifs enable the anion recognition event to be sensed by the significant quenching of the BODIPY fluorophore and cathodic perturbations of the metalloporphyrin P/P+. redox couple.
Herleitung und Validierung eines einfachen Modells zur Beschreibung des Misch‐ und Entmischungsprozesses beim Feststoffmischen
Authors: Habermann Ralf
Published: July 2021

Diskontinuierliche Feststoff‐Mischprozesse werden weitestgehend über die Mischzeit geführt. Dabei wird die erforderliche Mischzeit häufig in Mischversuchen separat ermittelt. Ob diese dem Optimum entspricht, bleibt offen. Es fehlt an Modellen zur Beschreibung des zeitlichen Mischgüte‐Verlaufs. Der vorliegende Beitrag fügt ein einfaches, zweiparametriges Modell hinzu, das neben dem Homogenisier‐ auch den Segregationsprozess berücksichtigt. Damit können mögliche Mischgüte‐Optima mithilfe weniger durchgeführter Mischversuche approximiert werden.
PROTOCOL: Strengthening women's empowerment and gender equality in fragile contexts towards peaceful and inclusive societies: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lwamba Etienne , Ridlehoover Will , Kupfer Meital , Shisler Shannon , Sonnenfeld Ada , Langer Laurenz , Eyers John , Grant Sean , Barooah Bidisha
Published: July 2021

This review builds on 3ie's (international initiative for impact evaluation) evidence gap map (EGM) of the impact evaluation and systematic review (SR) evidence base of interventions aiming to promote peaceful and inclusive societies in fragile contexts. The EGM identified a cluster of studies evaluating gender equality‐focused behaviour change communication programmes and raised interest in investigating the evidence base for understanding the role of women more broadly as agents of change in developing peaceful and inclusive societies. Building on the cluster of evidence identified in the EGM, our review will increase generalisability of findings from single studies and focus on interventions across a broad range of geographical locations, settings and populations, types of implementations and outcomes. We will also address (when possible) the identified gaps in literature regarding metaanalysis in conflict‐affected contexts. As such, we propose the following objectives: (1) The primary objective of this review is to identify, assess and synthesise evidence on the effect of gender specific and gender transformative interventions within the context of the four pillars of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on women's empowerment and gender equality in Fragile and Conflict Affected States/Situations (FCAS). The SR will facilitate the use of evidence in informing policy and practice decisions within the field of transition aid, particularly as it relates to gender focused programming. (2) Our second objective is to assess how these interventions contribute to inclusive and sustainable peace in conflict affected situations. We will compare the effectiveness of these different types of interventions through the lenses of their ecological level, types of impact on women's empowerment, local context of gender inequality and conflict. To achieve these objectives we aim to answer the following questions: (1) What are the impacts of gender transformative and specific interventions on women's empowerment and gender equality in FCAS? (2) What are the effects of these interventions on sustainable peace? (3) To what extent do effects vary by population group, ecological level and types of interventions? (4) What are contextual barriers to and facilitators of intervention effectiveness?
Pulmonary surveillance in pediatric hematopoietic stem cell transplant: A multinational multidisciplinary survey
Authors: Shanthikumar Shivanthan , Gower William A. , Abts Matthew , Liptzin Deborah R. , Fiorino Elizabeth K. , Stone Anne , Srinivasan Saumini , Vece Timothy J. , Akil Nour , Cole Theresa , Cooke Kenneth R. , Goldfarb Samuel B.
Published: July 2021

Background

Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant (HSCT) is an established treatment for malignant and non‐malignant conditions and pulmonary disease is a leading cause of late term morbidity and mortality. Accurate and early detection of pulmonary complications is a critical step in improving long term outcomes. Existing guidelines for surveillance of pulmonary complications post‐HSCT contain conflicting recommendations.

Aim

To determine the breadth of current practice in monitoring for pulmonary complications of pediatric HSCT.

Methods

An institutional review board approved, online, anonymous multiple‐choice survey was distributed to HSCT and pulmonary physicians from the United States of America and Australasia using the REDcap platform. The survey was developed by members of the American Thoracic Society Working Group on Complications of Childhood Cancer, and was designed to assess patient management and service design.

Results

A total of 40 (34.8%) responses were received. The majority (62.5%) were pulmonologists, and 82.5% were from the United States of America. In all, 67.5% reported having a protocol for monitoring pulmonary complications and 50.0% reported adhering “well” or “very well” to protocols. Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) most commonly involved spirometry and diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide. The frequency of PFTs varied depending on time post‐HSCT and presence of complications. In all, 55.0% reported a set threshold for a clinically significant change in PFT.

Conclusions

These results illustrate current variation in surveillance for pulmonary complications of pediatric HSCT. The results of this survey will inform development of future guidelines for monitoring of pulmonary complications after pediatric HSCT.
A new method for image classification and image retrieval using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Giveki Davar , Shakarami Ashkan , Tarrah Hadis , Soltanshahi Mohammad Ali
Published: July 2021

This article proposes a new method for image classification and image retrieval. The advantages of the proposed method are its high performance and requiring less memory compared to other methods. In order to extract image features, a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), AlexNet, has been used. For image classification, we design a committee of four classifiers trained on graphics cards, narrowing the gap to human performance. For image retrieval, the similarity between extracted features from dataset images and features of the query image is calculated and the final results are visualized. Comprehensive experiments on Corel‐1k, Corel‐10k, Caltech‐101 object and Scene‐67 datasets have been investigated to find optimal parameters of the proposed method. The experiments demonstrate the high performance of the proposed method in comparison with the state‐of‐the‐art in the field.
Effects of early‐life stress and sex on blood–brain barrier permeability and integrity in juvenile and adult rats
Authors: Solarz Anna , Majcher‐Maślanka Iwona , Chocyk Agnieszka
Published: July 2021

Early‐life stress (ELS) is considered a relevant etiological factor for neurodegenerative and mental disorders. In the present study, we hypothesized that ELS may persistently and sex dependently influence blood–brain barrier (BBB) integrity and function during critical periods of brain development and consequently determine susceptibility to and sex‐related prevalence of chronic diseases in adult life. We used the maternal separation (MS) procedure in rats to model ELS and evaluated BBB permeability and gene expression of selected tight junction (TJ) proteins, glucose transporter type 1 (Slc2a1) and aquaporin 4 (Aqp4) in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC), dorsal striatum (dSTR) and hippocampus of juvenile and adult rats. Serum concentrations of a peripheral marker of BBB function (S100β) and proinflammatory cytokines were also assessed. We observed developmental sealing of the BBB and sex differences in the permeability of the BBB and the mRNA expression of TJ proteins and Slc2a1. Adult females showed lower BBB permeability and higher levels of Cldn3, Cldn5, Ocln, and Slc2a1 in the mPFC and dSTR than males. MS temporarily increased BBB permeability in the dSTR of juvenile males and affected mRNA expression of the majority of studied proteins related to BBB function in age‐, region‐ and sex‐dependent manners. Additionally, MS sex dependently decreased serum S100β levels and did not affect proinflammatory cytokine concentrations. In general, our study did not reveal a clear or strong negative effect of MS on BBB integrity. However, the results suggest that ELS may induce adaptive/maladaptive changes or compensatory mechanisms within the BBB of unknown yet consequences.
5α‐reductase inhibitors: Evaluation of their potential confounding effect on GC‐C‐IRMS doping analysis
Authors: Iannella Loredana , Colamonici Cristiana , Curcio Davide , Botrè Francesco , de la Torre Xavier
Published: July 2021

5α‐reductase inhibitors (5‐ARIs) are considered by the World Anti‐doping Agency as potential confounding factors in evaluating the athlete steroid profile, since they may interfere with the urinary excretion of several diagnostic compounds. We herein investigated 5α‐reductase inhibitors from a different perspective, by verifying their influence on the carbon isotopic composition of 5α‐ and 5β‐reduced testosterone and nandrolone metabolites. The GC‐C‐IRMS analysis was performed on a set of urine samples collected from three male Caucasian volunteers after the acute and chronic administration of finasteride in combination with the intake of 19‐norandrostenedione, a nandrolone precursor. The excretion and the isotopic profile of androsterone (A), etiocholanolone (Etio) 5α‐androstane‐3α,17β‐diol (5αAdiol), and 5β‐androstane‐3α,17β‐diol (5βAdiol) were determined as well as those of 19‐norandrosterone (19‐NA) and 19‐noretiocholanolone (19‐NE). Pregnanediol (PD) and pregnanetriol (PT) were also measured as endogenous reference compounds to define the individual endogenous isotopic profile. Our results confirmed the impact of finasteride, especially if chronically administered, on the enzymatic pathway of testosterone and nandrolone, and pointed out the influence of 5‐ARIs on δ13C values of the selected target compounds determined in the IRMS confirmation analysis.
The effect of forest‐to‐bog restoration on the hydrological functioning of raised and blanket bogs
Authors: Howson Tim , Chapman Pippa J. , Shah Nadeem , Anderson Russell , Holden Joseph
Published: July 2021

The carbon sequestration potential of peatlands has led to increasing interest in the restoration of bogs previously subjected to plantation forestry. However, little information exists about the effects on hydrological processes of what has become known as forest‐to‐bog restoration. The hydrological functioning of three afforested, two intact and four forest‐to‐bog restoration sites was compared at a raised bog and blanket bog location. For the raised bog location, the annual runoff/rainfall coefficient was 59.7% for the intact site, 41.0% for the afforested site and 53.1% for the oldest restoration site (9 years post‐felling). At the blanket bog location, the coefficient was 80.6% for the intact site, 63.0% for the afforested site and 71.6% for the oldest restoration site (17 years post‐felling). Compared with intact bog, median peak storm discharge was significantly greater in the restoration sites for the raised bog location but not for the blanket bog location. Water‐table peak lag times were greatest, and water‐table depths deepest in the afforested sites and the most recent raised bog restoration site and least in the oldest blanket bog restoration site. The estimated contribution of overland flow in the afforested sites was 2.9% for the raised bog and 11.9% for the blanket bog, increasing to 8.7% and 32.2% at the oldest restoration sites for the raised bog and blanket bog, respectively. Overall, hydrological functioning of the raised bog and blanket bog restoration sites was different from the intact sites but was most similar to intact bog in the oldest restoration sites.
Simulation‐Guided Design of Bamboo Leaf‐Derived Carbon‐Based High‐Efficiency Evaporator for Solar‐Driven Interface Water Evaporation
Authors: Wu Yitian , Kong Rui , Ma Chaoliang , Li Lanze , Zheng Yu , Lu Yingzhuo , Liang Lulu , Pang Yajun , Wu Qiang , Shen Zhehong , Chen Hao
Published: July 2021

Solar interface water evaporation has been demonstrated to be an advanced method for freshwater production with high solar energy utilization. The development of evaporators with lower cost and higher efficiency is a key challenge in the manufacture of practical solar interface water evaporation devices. Herein, a bamboo leaf‐derived carbon‐based evaporator is designed based on the light trace simulation. And then, it is manufactured by vertical arrangement and carbonization of bamboo leaves and subsequent polyacrylamide modification. The vertically arranged carbon structure can extend the light path and increase the light‐absorbing area, thus achieving excellent light absorption. Furthermore, the continuous distribution of polyacrylamide hydrogel between these vertical carbons can support high‐speed water delivery and shorten the evaporation path. Therefore, this evaporator exhibits an ultrahigh average light absorption rate of ˜96.1%, a good water evaporation rate of 1.75 kg m–2 h−1, and an excellent solar‐to‐vapor efficiency of 91.9% under one sun irradiation. Furthermore, the device based on this evaporator can effectively achieve seawater desalination, heavy metal ion removal, and dye separation while completing water evaporation. And this device is highly available for actual outdoor applications and repeated recycling.
Bridging Aromatic/Antiaromatic Units: Recent Advances in Aromaticity and Antiaromaticity in Main‐Group and Transition‐Metal Clusters from Bonding and Magnetic Analyses
Authors: Tkachenko Nikolay V. , Popov Ivan A. , Kulichenko Maksim , Fedik Nikita , Sun Zhong‐Ming , Muñoz‐Castro Alvaro , Boldyrev Alexander I.
Published: July 2021

Synthetic exploration and theoretical characterization of metal clusters are actively developing branches of modern inorganic chemistry. Advances in these areas constantly expand the rich structural diversity of viable species, allowing a detailed study of the fundamental characteristics of bench‐stable compounds. In this minireview, we summarize recent achievements in synthesis and computational analyses of main‐group and heterometallic clusters containing multiple aromatic/antiaromatic units. These systems range from bare clusters to ligand‐decorated aggregates, providing a fundamental understanding of the aromaticity and antiaromaticity concepts in species exhibiting unprecedented shapes and composition. The review gives a comprehensive summary of bonding and magnetic response properties of such systems deciphered from the Adaptive Natural Density Partitioning (AdNDP) approach and induced magnetic field analyses.
Carbon‐Halogen Bond Activation with Powerful Heavy Alkaline Earth Metal Hydrides
Authors: Wiesinger Michael , Rösch Bastian , Knüpfer Christian , Mai Jonathan , Langer Jens , Harder Sjoerd
Published: July 2021

Reaction of [(DIPePBDI)SrH]2 with C6H5X (X=Cl, Br, I) led to hydride‐halogenide exchange (DIPePBDI=HC[(Me)CN‐2,6‐(3‐pentyl)phenyl]2). Conversion rates increase with increasing halogen size (F<Cl<Br<I). Reaction of [(DIPePBDI)SrH]2 with C6H5F was slow and ill‐defined but addition of C6H4F2 gave smooth hydride‐fluoride exchange. After addition of THF the full range of Sr halogenides was structurally characterized: [(DIPePBDI)SrX ⋅ THF]2 (X=F, Cl, Br, I). Mixtures of AeN“2 and PhSiH3 in situ formed less defined but more robust Ae metal hydride clusters (AexN”yHz, Ae=Ca, Sr, Ba and N“=N(SiMe3)2) which are able to hydrodefluorinate C6H5F. Conversion rates increase with increasing metal size (Ca<Sr<Ba). Also alkylfluorides (1‐F‐hexane, F‐cyclohexane, 1‐F‐adamantane) could be converted but, due to solubility problems of the Ba species, the fastest conversion was found for Sr. These AeN”2/PhSiH3 mixtures also converted SF6 at room temperature to give undefined decomposition products. Addition of Me6Tren to a SrN“2/PhSiH3 led to crystallization of [Sr6N”2H9 ⋅ (Me6Tren)3+][SrN“3−]; Me6Tren=tris[2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl]amine). After hydrodefluorination, Sr6N”4F8 ⋅ (Me6Tren)2 was formed and structurally characterized. Dissolution in THF led to cluster growth and the larger cluster Sr16N“8F24 ⋅ (THF)12 is structurally characterized. DFT calculations support that hydrodehalogenation of halobenzenes follows a concerted nucleophilic aromatic substitution mechanism (cSNAr).
Spectroscopic Identification of Disordered Molecular Cations in Defect Perovskite‐Like ALn(HCO2)(C2O4)1.5 (Ln=Tb‐Er) Phases
Authors: Burley Lydia G. , Srivastava Anant Kumar , Rudić Svemir , Saines Paul J.
Published: July 2021

This work reports a new series of ALn(HCO2)(C2O4)1.5 (A=[(CH3)2NH2]+ and Ln3+=Tb3+‐Er3+) compounds made solvothermally. These Cmce phases combine monovalent and divalent ligands, which enables a scarce combination of A+ and B3+ cations in a hybrid perovskite‐like compound. The ratio of ligands leads to ordered anion vacancies, which alternate with oxalate linkers along the c‐axis. The A‐site cations are disordered and cannot be identified crystallographically, likely a result of the larger pores of these frameworks compared to the recently reported AEr(HCO2)2(C2O4) phases. Neutron and infrared spectroscopy, supported by elemental composition, enables these cations to be identified as [(CH3)2NH2]+ molecules. Magnetic property measurements suggest these materials have weak antiferromagnetic interactions but remain paramagnetic to 1.8 K.
Electrophoresis and electric conduction in a salt‐free suspension of charged particles
Authors: Luo Ren H. , Keh Huan J.
Published: July 2021

The electrophoresis and electric conduction of a suspension of charged spherical particles in a salt‐free solution are analyzed by using a unit cell model. The linearized Poisson‐Boltzmann equation (valid for the cases of relatively low surface charge density or high volume fraction of the particles) and Laplace equation are solved for the equilibrium electric potential profile and its perturbation caused by the imposed electric field, respectively, in the fluid containing the counterions only around the particle, and the ionic continuity equation and modified Stokes equations are solved for the electrochemical potential energy and fluid flow fields, respectively. Explicit analytical formulas for the electrophoretic mobility of the particles and effective electric conductivity of the suspension are obtained, and the particle interaction effects on these transport properties are significant and interesting. The scaled zeta potential, electrophoretic mobility, and effective electric conductivity increase monotonically with an increase in the scaled surface charge density of the particles and in general decrease with an increase in the particle volume fraction, keeping each other parameter unchanged. Under the Debye‐Hückel approximation, the dependence of the electrophoretic mobility normalized with the surface charge density on the ratio of the particle radius to the Debye screening length and particle volume fraction in a salt‐free suspension is same as that in a salt‐containing suspension, but the variation of the effective electric conductivity with the particle volume fraction in a salt‐free suspension is found to be quite different from that in a suspension containing added electrolyte.
Retracted: Economic prospects of replacing distributed generation with biofuel
Authors: Kapitonov Ivan A. , Batyrova Nazygul T.
Published: July 2021

At the present day, the issue of the further development of energy economics, industry, and other areas are quite urgent, taking into account the environmental component and not excluding the economic component of this problem. It is possible to reduce the negative impact on the environment by switching to biofuel. In addition to the environmental benefits, biofuels are beneficial in use, also to the companies themselves, as it is more cost‐efficient. The production and use of energy by the companies involve distributed generation. The purpose of the paper is to analyse the economic prospects of replacing distributed generation with biofuel. Results: within the framework of the study, the concepts of distributed generation, biofuel, its main types, as well as some of the advantages of biofuel are defined. Some economic aspects are considered, mainly in the direction of biofuel‐related benefits. In addition, the paper considers the distributed generation market development and the use of biofuel in Russia in comparison with other countries, the main problems were identified, and the main prospects in this direction were considered. Prospects for further research: due to the subsequent study of biofuel usage, taking into account economic and environmental aspects. The applied value of the material: the paper is of practical value in the framework of generalising data on the distributed generation market and the bioenergy market in the Russian Federation and foreign countries.
Late Quaternary terrace formation from knickpoint propagation in the headwaters of the Yellow River, NE Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Liu Ya , Wang Xianyan , Su Qi , Yi Shuangwen , Miao Xiaodong , Li Yiquan , Lu Huayu
Published: July 2021

Upstream knickpoint propagation is an essential mechanism for channel erosion, carrying changes in base level, tectonics and climate across the landscape. Generally, the terraces on cross‐sections at steady‐state conditions have been widely reported. However, many landscapes in the field appear to be in a transient state. Here, we explore the mechanism of knickpoint initiation and fluvial evolution in a transient setting in the northeastern Tibetan Plateau. Analysis of channel profiles and terrace correlation indicates that the Yellow River is adjusted to match the increase in differentiated fault activity and climate change in a regional setting of continuous uplift. Consequently, a series of terraces were formed, and the number of terrace steps increased downstream, in the headwaters of the Yellow River. All terraces were dated using the optically stimulated luminescence method. The top terrace, distributed continuously in the whole basin with a gradient, was deposited during a cold period and abandoned at the climatic transition from cold to warm state, at approximately 14.6–9.5 ka. After that, one terrace formed at around 4.2 ka in the upper reach. In correlation with the continuous topographic gradient surface of this terrace, three terrace steps were formed in the down reach during the period from 9.5 ka to 4.2 ka. This phenomenon might indicate multiple phases of continuous headward migration of fluvial knickpoint waves and terrace formation during the downcutting. It was caused by fault activity and tectonic uplift of the gorge at the outlet of the basin, under influence of the gradual integration of the Yellow River from downstream. This phenomenon shows that the fluvial incision in a transient state along the high relief margin of the orogenic plateau can be caused by fault activity, in addition to widespread surface uplift, climatically driven lake spillover and the establishment of external drainage.
The relative role of constructive and destructive processes in dune evolution on Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina, USA
Authors: Hovenga Paige A. , Ruggiero Peter , Goldstein Evan B. , Hacker Sally D. , Moore Laura J.
Published: July 2021

Coastal dunes are dynamic features that are continuously evolving due to constructive (e.g., wind‐ and wave‐driven sediment transport) and destructive (e.g., elevated total water levels during storm events) processes. However, the relative importance of these processes in determining dune evolution is often poorly understood. In this study, ten lidar datasets from 1997 to 2016 are used to determine the relative role of erosion and accretion processes driving foredune change on the coast of Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina, USA. Beach and dune morphometrics reveal that dune toe locations have generally retreated since 1997, while dune crest heights accreted by 0.01–0.02 m/year. We develop three univariate metrics that represent (1) the potential for erosion, i.e., total water level impact hours per year, (2) accretion, i.e., dune building hours per year, and (3) the relative net effect of foredune accretion and erosion processes, i.e., constructive–destructive dune forcing (CDDF) ratio, and test the correlative power of these metrics in explaining changes in foredune morphology. The total water level impact hours per year metric explained as much as 66% and 67% of the variance in dune crest and toe elevations, respectively, across the nearly two decades of dune evolution. The greatest number of dune building hours per year and largest dunes within the study site co‐occurred at locations exposed to the dominant cross‐shore wind direction as a result of varying shoreline orientation. The CDDF ratio was positively correlated to changes in the dune toe elevation in approximately 70% of dunes within the study site, outperforming the impact and dune building hours per year metrics. Our results show that these three metrics can provide first‐order estimates of dune morphometric change across multiple spatial and temporal scales, which may be particularly useful at sites where lidar acquisition is intermittent.
Changes in rock matrix compressibility during deep CO2 storage
Authors: Kim Kiseok , Makhnenko Roman Y.
Published: July 2021

Geologic carbon storage projects aim to permanently trap large volumes of CO2 in reservoir rock sealed with low permeability layers. As high‐pressure supercritical or liquid CO2 is injected, hydromechanical and chemical processes caused by the reaction between the rock and acidic mixture of brine and CO2 are initiated. The compressibility of reservoir rock needs to be properly characterized in order to assess the deformation and stability of the host formations, and there are a number of factors to be considered, including the matrix structure, solid, pores, and fluid. This study triggers from a fundamental question whether CO2 treatment affects the compressibility of the rock matrix and its dominant composing solid minerals. Three different reservoir representatives are selected: Berea sandstone for silica‐rich rock, and Apulian limestone and Indiana limestone for calcite‐rich rock. Quartz and calcite are the main composing minerals of the reservoir rock, and their crystals are separately examined. Experimental methods are introduced for high‐pressure CO2 treatment of water‐saturated materials, and measurements of the unjacketed and solid compressibilities are conducted. No change in the solid compressibility of the sandstone and quartz after CO2 treatment is observed, whereas it increases by 18–21% for the limestones and by 15% for calcite. The latter observation is inconsistent with the ultrasonic wave velocities measurements and is believed to be due to the local dissolution of the calcite crystal surface. The results show that only the solid matrix of the limestones becomes more compressible after CO2 treatment. Consequent microimaging and mercury intrusion porosimetry analyses allowed observations of dissolution and precipitation of calcite, and creation of new connected and non‐connected pores. Finally, the changes in limestone solid compressibilities and pore structure could significantly affect the rock properties and behavior during and after CO2 injection and should be accounted for in the reservoir models. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does public long‐term care expenditure improve care‐related quality of life of service users in England?
Authors: Longo Francesco , Claxton Karl , Lomas James , Martin Stephen
Published: July 2021

Public long‐term care (LTC) systems provide services to support people experiencing difficulties with their activities of daily living. This study investigates the marginal effect of changes in public LTC expenditure on care‐related quality of life (CRQoL) of existing service users in England. The public LTC program for people aged 18 or older in England is called Adult Social Care (ASC) and it is provided and managed by local authorities. We collect data on the outcomes and characteristics of public ASC users, on public ASC expenditure, and on the characteristics of local authorities across England in 2017/18. We employ an instrumental variable approach using conditionally exogenous elements of the public funding system to estimate the effect of public ASC expenditure on user CRQoL. Our findings show that by increasing public ASC expenditure by £1000 per user, on average, local authorities increase user CRQoL by 0.0030. These results suggest that public ASC is effective in increasing users' quality of life but only to a relatively small extent. When combined with the other potential effects of LTC expenditure (e.g., on informal carers, mortality), this study can inform policy makers in the United Kingdom and internationally about whether social care provides good value for money.
Mandatory Hepatology Education for Internal Medicine Residents: Long‐Term Effects and Implications for Workforce Needs
Authors: Mikolajczyk Adam E. , Zilberstein Netanel , McConville John F. , Pan Alex , Aronsohn Andrew I. , Te Helen S. , Reddy Gautham , Paul Sonali , Pillai Anjana , Charlton Michael , Farnan Jeanne M.
Published: July 2021

We previously created a mandatory, inpatient, hepatology resident curriculum that immediately improved comfort, knowledge, and career interest in chronic liver disease (CLD). The durability of these effects needs to be known to use this intervention to address the hepatologist shortage. Thus, we aimed to assess this curriculum’s long‐term outcomes on internal medicine (IM) residents’ CLD comfort, knowledge, and career interest. From 2015 to 2019 at a single institution, one IM resident was always assigned to the rotation. Similar anonymous assessments were administered to incoming postgraduate year (PGY)‐1 residents and graduating PGY‐3 residents, including a historic control cohort that graduated in June 2015. At residency completion, the intervention cohort (n = 61) had significantly higher comfort (1, not at all comfortable/strongly disagree; 5, very comfortable/strongly agree) with both hepatology (e.g., hepatitis C, 2.5 vs. 3.3, P < 0.001) and common IM topics (e.g., heart failure, 3.6 vs. 4.8, P < 0.001) but not specialty topics lacking curricula (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease, 2.8 vs. 2.7, P = 0.54). Compared to the historic cohort (n = 27), the intervention cohort was more comfortable in several CLD topics (e.g., cirrhosis, 3.2 vs. 3.8; P = 0.005) and answered more questions correctly (65% vs. 55%; P = 0.04), but career interest was unchanged (1.9 vs. 1.8; P = 0.45). Many residents (33%) would consider a hepatology career if training were separated from gastroenterology. Conclusion: With the completion of a mandatory hepatology curriculum, residents’ CLD comfort and knowledge durably improved and exceeded that of historic counterparts. Initial career interest was not sustained, perhaps due to prerequisite gastroenterology training. These findings suggest IM educational initiatives may better address hepatology workforce needs by generating comanagers than by recruiting trainees.
Age‐related functional connectivity along the hippocampal longitudinal axis
Authors: Panitz Daniel Yochai , Berkovich‐Ohana Aviva , Mendelsohn Avi
Published: July 2021

Accumulated evidence points toward a long‐axis functional division of the hippocampus, with its anterior part primarily associated with emotional processes and the posterior with navigation and cognition. It is yet unclear, however, how functional connectivity between areas along the hippocampal longitudinal axis and other brain regions differ, and how they are affected by age. Applying an anatomically driven general linear model‐based functional connectivity analysis on a large database of resting‐state fMRI data, we demonstrate that independent of age, the posterior hippocampus is functionally connected primarily with sensory and motor areas, the middle hippocampus with the default mode network, and the anterior with limbic and prefrontal regions. Along with an age‐related disintegration of intra‐hippocampal BOLD signal uniformity, the middle and posterior sub‐regions exhibit mostly decreases in their functional connectivity with cortical regions, whereas the anterior hippocampus and ventral striatum appear to become more synchronized with age. These findings indicate that long‐axis hippocampal areas are tuned to particular functional networks, which do not age in a unified manner.
Contributors to and consequences of burnout among clinical genetic counselors in the United States
Authors: Caleshu Colleen , Kim Helen , Silver Julia , Austin Jehannine , Tibben Aad , Campion MaryAnn
Published: July 2021

Prior research has found that many genetic counselors (GCs) experience burnout. Studies of other clinicians have demonstrated that burnout can have significant detrimental consequences for clinicians, patients, and the healthcare system. We sought to explore the prevalence of, contributors to, and consequences of burnout among GCs. We performed a secondary data analysis of baseline data from Me‐GC, a randomized controlled trial of meditation for GCs. We applied a systems model of burnout proposed by the National Academy of Medicine (NAM), which depicts burnout arising from a combination of contributors that include both work system and individual mediating factors, and then leading to consequences. Validated self‐report scales were used to measure burnout and most contributors and consequences. Female and white GCs were over‐represented in our sample. Over half (57.2%) of the 397 participants had Professional Fulfillment Index scores indicative of burnout. Multiple potential contributors were associated with burnout, consistent with its known multifactorial nature. Among work system factors, higher levels of burnout were associated with insufficient administrative support, lack of autonomy, and not feeling valued by non‐GC colleagues. Individual mediating factors associated with greater burnout included higher levels of anxiety, depression, and stress. Participants with lower levels of burnout reported greater mindfulness, resilience, and use of professional self‐care behaviors. Among variables categorized as consequences, higher levels of burnout were associated with lower levels of empathy, counseling alliance, and positive unconditional regard, as well as higher reactive distress, and a greater desire to reduce the amount of time spent on clinical care. Given the prevalence and potential consequences of burnout observed here, it is imperative that the field take steps to mitigate burnout risk.
Ketotic hypoglycemia in patients with Down syndrome
Authors: Drachmann Danielle , Carrigg Austin , Weinstein David A. , Petersen Jacob Sten , Christesen Henrik Thybo
Published: July 2021

Background

Ketotic hypoglycemia (KH) without an identifiable underlying metabolic or hormonal disease is historically named idiopathic KH. The prevalence is unknown, but idiopathic KH is considered the most frequent cause of hypoglycemia beyond the neonatal period. KH in Down syndrome (DS) has not been reported.

Methods

We conducted a web‐based survey on KH in DS through the non‐profit patient organization Ketotic Hypoglycemia International. The responses were evaluated for consistency with KH by two authors. Two DS patient histories with documented KH were shared in more details.

Results

Survey data on 139 DS patients were obtained. After validation, 10 patients (7.2%) had reported episodes of documented hypoglycemia, ketosis, and/or symptoms compatible with KH beyond the neonatal period. Glucose concentrations ranged 1.2‐2.9 mmol/L; betahydroxybutyrate was up to 5.5 mmol/L during hypoglycemia. One girl had trisomy 21 with no response to i.m. glucagon also had a heterozygous Xp22.23 deletion including GYG2, which protein, glycogenin 2, is a substrate for glycogen synthase. Treatment with extended release cornstarch was effective.

Conclusion

This is the first demonstration of a possible high prevalence of KH in DS. Even though this finding needs to be confirmed in other research settings, identification of KH in DS could have a dramatic impact, as simple treatments with cornstarch, protein and frequent meals may prevent KH attacks and, analogous to other conditions with KH, improve growth, stamina and prevent overeating and obesity. GYG2 deletion may contribute to KH in DS, resembling glycogen storage disease type 0.
Feeling shame in the workplace: Examining negative feedback as an antecedent and performance and well‐being as consequences
Authors: Xing Lu , Sun Jian‐min (James) , Jepsen Denise
Published: July 2021

Shame is a powerful but understudied emotion in organizational settings, and its antecedents and consequences have been of key interest. Drawing on Daniels and Robinson's (2019) framework of organizational shame, we first investigated supervisor negative feedback, a common practice in supervisor–subordinate interactions, as a predictor of employees' shame. We further investigated the daily effects of shame on well‐being and performance. The hypothesized model was tested using a daily diary method from 119 full‐time employees across five consecutive working days. The results show that supervisor negative feedback is associated with employees' feelings of shame at the within‐person level, increasing their end‐of‐work emotional exhaustion while improving their next‐day in‐role and extra‐role performance. Further, individual‐level leader–member exchange (LMX) moderated the relationship between negative feedback and shame, with the relationship being stronger under high LMX. We discuss how our study contributes to the shame literature by emphasizing the predictive role of negative feedback and the repair motive of shame in determining its consequences.
Spectroscopic study of the coloured gems in a 19th century pendant from Einsiedeln Abbey
Authors: Karampelas Stefanos , Wörle Marie
Published: July 2021

Nineteen green‐coloured gems adorning a cross‐shaped pendant from the end of 19th century, belonging to Einsiedeln Abbey (Switzerland), were examined using non‐destructive methods. Estimated weights of the gems are ranging from about 0.19 to 2.34 carats. Natural multiphase inclusions with jagged outlines were observed in all samples under optical microscope. Raman bands characteristic of beryl were observed in all samples with a 532‐nm laser excitation. Raman spectra of the samples with a 785‐nm laser at higher wavenumber found to be similar to emeralds containing low concentration of alkali elements. Their ultraviolet–visible–near‐infrared (UV–Vis–NIR) spectra display absorption bands related to chromium and vanadium; no absorption bands related to iron were observed. Using a combination of spectroscopic and microscopic methods, the samples were adequately identified as natural emeralds, with Colombia as their most probable source.
Case study meta‐analysis in the social sciences. Insights on data quality and reliability from a large‐N case survey
Authors: Jager Nicolas W. , Newig Jens , Challies Edward , Kochskämper Elisa , von Wehrden Henrik
Published: July 2021

Meta‐analytical methods face particular challenges in research fields such as social and political research, where studies often rest primarily on qualitative and case study research. In such contexts, where research findings are less standardized and amenable to structured synthesis, the case survey method has been proposed as a means of data generation and analysis. The method offers a meta‐analytical tool to synthesize larger numbers of qualitative case studies, yielding data amenable to large‐N analysis. However, resulting data is prone to specific threats to validity, including biases due to publication type, rater behaviour, and variable characteristics, which researchers need to be aware of. While these biases are well known in theory, and typically explored for primary research, their prevalence in case survey meta‐analyses remains relatively unexplored. We draw on a case survey of 305 published qualitative case studies of public environmental decision‐making, and systematically analyze these biases in the resultant data. Our findings indicate that case surveys can deliver high‐quality and reliable results. However, we also find that these biases do indeed occur, albeit to a small degree or under specific conditions of complexity. We identify a number of design choices to mitigate biases that may threaten validity in case survey meta‐analysis. Our findings are of importance to those using the case survey method – and to those who might apply insights derived by this method to inform policy and practice.
Landscape Genetics of American Beaver in Coastal Oregon
Authors: Epps Clinton W. , Petro Vanessa M. , Creech Tyler G. , Crowhurst Rachel S. , Weldy Matthew J. , Taylor Jimmy D.
Published: July 2021

American beaver (Castor canadensis) have been translocated for population restoration, reduction of human‐wildlife conflict, and enhancement of ecosystem function. Yet few studies have assessed dispersal of beaver, making it difficult to determine at what scale translocations are appropriate. Genetic studies can provide inferences about gene flow, and thus dispersal. We used a landscape genetic approach to evaluate whether landscape features influenced gene flow among beaver in the Coast Range of western Oregon, USA, using samples collected April–September 2014. We collected genetic samples from live‐captured (n = 232), road‐killed (n = 2) and trapper‐provided (n = 58) tissue samples and genotyped them at 10 microsatellite loci. We mapped records of beaver translocations into or within the study area during the twentieth century to consider the effect of those movements on genetic structure. We used population assignment tests to delimit genetic clusters, evaluated correspondence of those clusters with watershed boundaries and translocation history, and then estimated differentiation between clusters and between watersheds using model‐based and model‐free approaches. We evaluated how individual genetic differences varied with geographic distance, and investigated related pairs within clusters. We developed landscape resistance models incorporating slope, distance to water, and watershed boundaries at 2 scales, and estimated effective distances between sample locations with least cost path and circuit theoretic analyses. We evaluated the correlation of individual genetic distances with effective distances using a pseudo‐bootstrapping approach. Landscape genetic models did not explain spatial variation in genetic structure better than geographic distance, but hierarchical genetic structure corresponded with watershed boundaries and suggested influences from historical translocations. Pairwise individual genetic distances were positively correlated with geographic distances to 61 km; highly‐related pairs mostly were detected <1 km apart (median = 1.0 km,  = 14.6 ± 2.3 [SE] km, n = 77). We concluded that slope and distance to water did not strongly limit dispersal and gene flow by beaver in this system, but concordance of genetic structure with watershed boundaries suggests that dispersal is more common within than between watersheds. Genetic differentiation of beaver within this topographically complex system was much greater than reported in a study at similar spatial scales in relatively flat topography. We recommend that translocation efforts of American beaver in topographically complex landscapes occur within watersheds when possible but conclude that dispersal can occur across watersheds. © 2021 The Wildlife Society. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.