bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dispersion and damping rate of Langmuir wave in space plasma with regularized Kappa distributed electrons
Authors: LIU Yong , CHEN Xu
Published: November 2021

The dispersion of Langmuir wave (LW) in an unmagnetized collisionless plasma with regularized Kappa distributed electrons is investigated from the kinetic theory. The frequency and damping rate of LW are analyzed for the parameters relating to the source region of a type III solar radio burst. It is found that the linear behavior of LW is greatly modified by the suprathermal index κ and the exponential cutoff parameter α. In the region κ < 1.5, the damping rate of LW will be much larger than the one with Maxwellian distributed electrons. Hence, the nonlinear process of LW in low κ region may exhibit different properties in comparison with the one in large κ region.
Transmission characteristics of terahertz Bessel vortex beams through a multi-layered anisotropic magnetized plasma slab
Authors: LI Haiying , TONG Jiachen , DING Wei , XU Bin , BAI Lu
Published: November 2021

The transmission of terahertz (THz) Bessel vortex beams through a multi-layered anisotropic magnetized plasma slab is investigated by using a hybrid method of cylindrical vector wave functions (CVWFs) and Fourier transform. On the basis of the electromagnetic boundary conditions on each interface, a cascade form of expansion coefficients of the reflected and transmitted fields is obtained. Taking a double Gaussian distribution of the plasma density as an example, the influences of the applied magnetic field, the incident angle and polarization mode of the incident beams on the magnitude, OAM mode and polarization of the transmitted beams are analyzed in detail. The results indicate that the applied magnetic field has a major effect upon the polarization state of the transmitted fields but not upon the transmitted OAM spectrum. The incident angle has a powerful influence upon both the amplitude profile and the OAM spectrum of the transmitted beam. Furthermore, for multiple coaxial vortex beams, an increase of the maximum value of the plasma density causes more remarkable distortion of both the profile and OAM spectrum of the transmitted beam. This research makes a stable foundation for the THz OAM multiplexing/demultiplexing technology in a magnetized plasma environment.
Physical properties of mesoporous scoria and pumice volcanic rocks
Authors: Alraddadi Shoroog , Assaedi Hasan
Published: November 2021

In this study, the chemical composition, crystal structure, texture properties, and thermal properties of five powdered samples of scoria and pumice volcanic rock from different Harrats were investigated. It was observed that volcanic rocks show variations in chemical compositions, crystal structure, texture, and thermal properties. All samples comprised SiO2, Al2O3, CaO, and Fe2O3 as the major elements and contained both amorphous and crystalline phases. Textural parameters such as surface area and porosity were determined using various calculation models. The surface area of scoria samples was between 0.85 and 1.71 m2 g−1 (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller and Single point model), 0.293–1.028 m2 g−1 (Barrett–Joyner–Halenda model), and 1.02–2.35 m2 g−1 (Langmuir model). While for pumice, the calculated values of the surface area were 1.67 m2 g−1 (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller and Single point model), 0.763 m2 g−1 (Barrett–Joyner–Halenda model), and 2.24 m2 g−1 (Langmuir model). The adsorption-desorption isotherm curves reveal that the scoria and pumice particles under study have mesoporous sizes between 7.89 and 9.81 nm, respectively. The differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) results of scoria and pumice samples illustrate a thermally stable material at high temperatures. TGA results show a weight gain by about 1.0% has been observed in the scoria samples in the region beyond 600 °C that may indicate a probable oxidation phenomenon with a change in color. While the DSC results of the red scoria and pumice did not show any recrystallization or oxidation, but only showed a small loss of weight in the TGA result. The diversity in molecular composition, texture, and structure of scoria and pumice volcanic rock samples provide for promising natural stable mesoporous materials that can be used in various mesoporous technologies or applications such as solar cells.
Realization of pitch-rotational torque wrench in two-beam optical tweezers
Authors: Lokesh Muruga , Vaippully Rahul , Bhallamudi Vidya P , Prabhakar Anil , Roy Basudev
Published: November 2021

3D Pitch (out-of-plane) rotational motion has been generated in spherical particles by maneuvering the laser spots of holographic optical tweezers. However, since the spherical particles, which are required to minimise drag are perfectly isotropic, a controllable torque cannot be applied with it. It remains free to spin about any axis even after moving the tweezers beams. It is here that we trap birefringent particles of about 3 μm diameter in two tweezers beams and then change the depth of one of the beam foci controllably to generate a pitch rotational torque-wrench and avoid the free spinning of the particle. We also detect the rotation with newly developed pitch motion detection technique and apply controlled torques on the particle.
Deafness mutation in the MYO3A motor domain impairs actin protrusion elongation mechanism
Authors: Gunther Laura K. , Cirilo Joseph A. , Desetty Rohini , Yengo Christopher M.
Published: November 2021

MYO3A is an actin-based motor that localizes to the tips of stereocilia in inner ear hair cells. This work characterizes how a deafness-associated mutation in MYO3A impacts its motor ATPase cycle and function in actin protrusions, which provides new insight into the role of MYO3A in actin protrusion elongation and length regulation.
Vitamin K dietary intake is associated with cognitive function in an older adult Mediterranean population
Authors: Camacho-Barcia Lucía , García-Gavilán Jesús , Martínez-González Miguel Ángel , Fernández-Aranda Fernando , Galié Serena , Corella Dolores , Cuenca-Royo Aida , Romaguera Dora , Vioque Jesús , Alonso-Gómez Ángel M , Wärnberg Julia , Martínez J Alfredo , Serra-Majem Luís , Estruch Ramón , Bernal-López M Rosa , Lapetra José , Pintó Xavier , Tur Josep A , Garcia-Rios Antonio , Bueno-Cavanillas Aurora , Delgado-Rodríguez Miguel , Matía-Martín Pilar , Daimiel Lidia , Martín-Sánchez Vicente , Vidal Josep , Vázquez Clotilde , Ros Emilio , Canela Miguel Ruiz , Sorlí Jose V , de la Torre Rafael , Konieczna Jadwiga , Oncina-Cánovas Alejandro , Tojal-Sierra Lucas , Pérez-López Jessica , Abete Itziar , Sánchez-Villegas Almudena , Casas Rosa , Muñoz-Garach Araceli , Santos-Lozano José Manuel , Bouzas Cristina , Razquin Cristina , Martínez-Lacruz Raúl , Castañer Olga , Yañez Aina M , Valls-Enguix Rafael , Belló-Mora Maria Concepción , Basterra-Gortari Javier , Basora Josep , Salas-Salvadó Jordi , Bulló Mònica
Published: November 2021

Background

In the last years, evidence that dietary vitamin K could have a role in the cognitive domain has increased. However, data from large trials are limited. The objective of this study was to assess the association of 2 year changes in the dietary intake of vitamin K with cognitive function measured through neuropsychological performance tests.

Methods

In 5,533 participants of the multicentre PREDIMED-Plus study (48.1% women, age 65.1 ± 4.9 years with overweight/obesity and metabolic syndrome), we assessed the adjusted odds ratios of cognitive function decline according to 2 year changes in vitamin K intake. Participants answered a battery of cognitive function tests and Food Frequency Questionnaires (FFQs) in order to estimate the vitamin K dietary intake.

Results

After adjusting for potential cofounders, the highest tertile of change of dietary vitamin K intake (median [IQR]; 194.4 μg/d [120.9, 373.1]) was inversely associated with a Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score ≤24 (OR [95% CI]; 0.53 [0.35, 0.79] P for trend = 0.002) compared with a decrease in the intake of vitamin K (median [IQR]; −97.8 μg/d [−292.8, −51.5]). A significant positive association between changes in dietary vitamin K intake and the semantic verbal fluency test scores (OR [95% CI]; 0.69 [0.51, 0.94] P for trend = 0.019) was found.

Conclusions

An increase of the intake of dietary vitamin K was associated with better cognitive function scores, independently of recognised risk factors for cognitive decline, in an older adult Mediterranean population with high cardiovascular risk.
Opioids and the Workplace Prevention and Response Train-the-Trainer and Leadership Training Mixed Methods Follow-up Evaluation
Authors: Persaud Eric , Weinstock Deborah , Landsbergis Paul
Published: November 2021

Objectives

This study was designed to evaluate the outcomes of a national summer 2020 ‘Opioids and the Workplace’ Prevention and Response (OWPR) Train-the-Trainer (TTT) and Leadership training tool and program at 6-month follow-up. The TTT program goal is to help instructors plan and conduct education and training on opioids and the workplace awareness. The Leadership program goal is to help trainees, who are in a position to take organizational level actions, implement policies, and programs related to opioid and substance use and injury prevention.

Methods

Trainees were from various backgrounds, such as labor unions, academic consortiums, health and safety professionals, government, and community organizations. About 6 months following each individual course date a follow-up survey was sent to each available participants’ e-mail (n = 53 TTT, n = 28 Leadership) with a response rate of 47.2% for the TTT (n = 25) and 63.2% for Leadership (n = 12). Trainees were asked about individual or workplace level actions taken; any obstacles that prevented them or their coworkers from being involved in or conducting activities; if the OWPR training tool was used in their workplace for a training program; and whether the pandemic impacted their ability to address opioids in the workplace.

Results

Among TTT trainees, about half of follow-up survey respondents from the 2020 training reported planning and conducting training and education, reaching out to coworkers to see how they are doing, sharing factsheets and information from the opioid training with coworkers, and re-focusing on self-care. Among Leadership trainees, about two-fifths of follow-up survey respondents from the 2020 training reported sharing factsheets and information from the opioid training. Some trainees described the COVID-19 pandemic as limiting their ability to take actions in addressing opioids and the workplace.

Conclusions

Evidence supports that the ‘Opioids and the Workplace’ Train-the-Trainer program and materials have contributed to helping trainees plan and conduct opioids awareness training at their organizations. Evidence supports that the Opioids in the Workplace Leadership program helped contribute to trainees taking workplace level actions to implement policies and programs.
Cryo-shift: reducing domain shift in cryo-electron subtomograms with unsupervised domain adaptation and randomization
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Hmrishav , Deng Zihao , Ding Leiting , Liu Sinuo , Uddin Mostofa Rafid , Zeng Xiangrui , Behpour Sima , Xu Min
Published: November 2021

Motivation

Cryo-Electron Tomography (cryo-ET) is a 3D imaging technology that enables the visualization of subcellular structures in situ at near-atomic resolution. Cellular cryo-ET images help in resolving the structures of macromolecules and determining their spatial relationship in a single cell, which has broad significance in cell and structural biology. Subtomogram classification and recognition constitute a primary step in the systematic recovery of these macromolecular structures. Supervised deep learning methods have been proven to be highly accurate and efficient for subtomogram classification, but suffer from limited applicability due to scarcity of annotated data. While generating simulated data for training supervised models is a potential solution, a sizeable difference in the image intensity distribution in generated data as compared with real experimental data will cause the trained models to perform poorly in predicting classes on real subtomograms.

Results

In this work, we present Cryo-Shift, a fully unsupervised domain adaptation and randomization framework for deep learning-based cross-domain subtomogram classification. We use unsupervised multi-adversarial domain adaption to reduce the domain shift between features of simulated and experimental data. We develop a network-driven domain randomization procedure with ‘warp’ modules to alter the simulated data and help the classifier generalize better on experimental data. We do not use any labeled experimental data to train our model, whereas some of the existing alternative approaches require labeled experimental samples for cross-domain classification. Nevertheless, Cryo-Shift outperforms the existing alternative approaches in cross-domain subtomogram classification in extensive evaluation studies demonstrated herein using both simulated and experimental data.

Availabilityand implementation

https://github.com/xulabs/aitom.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Development of an eDNA metabarcoding tool for surveying the world’s largest amphibian
Authors: Wang Jie , Liu Ping , Chang Jiang , Li Cheng , Xie Feng , Jiang Jianping
Published: November 2021

Due to the overexploitation of farming, as well as habitat destruction, the wild population of Chinese giant salamander (CGS) Andrias davidianus, a species with seven genetically distinct lineages, has decreased by over 80% in the past 70 years. Traditional survey methods have proven to be unsuitable for finding this rare and elusive species. We evaluated the efficacy of environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling to detect CGS indirectly from its aquatic environment. We developed several species-specific primer sets; validated their specificity and sensitivity; and assessed their utility in silico, in the laboratory, and at two field sites harboring released farm-bred CGS. We detected the presence of CGS DNA by using polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing. We also sequenced an amplicon mixture of seven haplotype-represented samples using high-throughput sequencing. Our eDNA methods could detect the presence of CGS at moderate densities reported across its range, proving them as a cost-effective way to establish broad-scale patterns of occupancy for CGS. In addition, our primers enabled the detection of mitochondrial lineage mixture or introduced individuals from geographically isolated populations of CGS.
Anogenital Crohn’s Disease and Granulomatosis: A Systematic Review of Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestations, and Treatment
Authors: Honap Sailish , Meade Susanna , Spencer Ashley , Pavlidis Polychronis , Luber Raphael P , Calonje Eduardo , Rashidghamat Ellie , Bunker Christopher B , Lewis Fiona , Irving Peter M
Published: November 2021

Background and Aims

Metastatic Crohn’s disease is an extraintestinal cutaneous manifestation characterised by non-specific inflammatory lesions anatomically separate from the gut; genital involvement is rare. We conducted a systematic review of anogenital Crohn’s disease and granulomatosis, to provide a synthesis of epidemiology, clinical features, and treatment outcomes.

Methods

A systematic search of the literature was conducted via MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane database from inception to December 1, 2020. Two investigators extracted and analysed study data. Response and remission were defined as partial improvement or complete resolution of symptoms and examination findings, respectively.

Results

Of 9381 screened studies, 185 articles, [410 cases: 273 female, 137 male] were included. The predominant clinical features were oedema, ulcers, fissures, and hypertrophic lesions. Adults and children present similarly. Luminal Crohn’s disease was diagnosed in nearly 80% of cases including 45–80% patients without gastrointestinal symptoms (time to inflammatory bowel disease [IBD] from anogenital Crohn’s disease diagnosis [range] –43 to 11 years). Antibiotics, corticosteroids, thiopurines, and anti-tumour necrosis factor [TNF] therapy were the most frequently prescribed agents. At final follow-up, non-response, response, and remission rates were 37/304 [12%], 267/304 [88%], and 114/304 [38%], respectively. Oedema was associated with a poor response to topical therapy. Greater response rates to anti-TNF therapy were seen in patients prescribed concomitant immunomodulation [24/25, 96% vs 67/90, 74%, p = 0.02].

Conclusions

We provide an illustrative summary of the clinical presentation and treatment effectiveness of this rare, under-recognised condition, and a proposed algorithm for approach and management. Prospective studies with longer follow-up are required to define optimal treatment strategies.
Beyond Short-Term Learning Gains: the Impact of Outsourcing Schools in Liberia After Three Years
Authors: Romero Mauricio , Sandefur Justin
Published: November 2021

Outsourcing the management of ninety-three randomly-selected government primary schools in Liberia to eight private operators led to learning gains of 0.18$\sigma$ after one year, but these effects plateaued in subsequent years (reaching 0.2$\sigma$ after three years). Beyond learning gains, the programme reduced corporal punishment (by 4.6 percentage points from a base of 51%), but increased dropout (by 3.3 percentage points from a base of 15%) and failed to reduce sexual abuse. Despite facing similar contracts and settings, some providers produced uniformly positive results, while others presented trade-offs between learning gains, access to education, child safety, and financial sustainability.
A motor independent requirement for dynein light chain inCaenorhabditis elegansmeiotic synapsis
Authors: Fielder Sara M , Kent Tori , Ling Huiping , Gleason Elizabeth J , Kelly William G
Published: November 2021

The dynein motor complex is thought to aid in homolog pairing in many organisms by moving chromosomes within the nuclear periphery to promote and test homologous interactions. This precedes synaptonemal complex (SC) formation during homolog synapsis, which stabilizes homolog proximity during recombination. We observed that depletion of the dynein light chain (DLC-1) in Caenorhabditis elegans irreversibly prevents synapsis, causing an increase in off-chromatin formation of SC protein foci with increasing temperature. This requirement for DLC-1 is independent of its function in dynein motors, as SYP protein foci do not form with depletion of other dynein motor components. In contrast to normal SC-related structures, foci formed with DLC-1 depletion are resistant to dissolution with 1,6-hexanediol, similar to aggregates of SC proteins formed in high growth temperatures. Dynein light chains have been shown to act as hub proteins that interact with other proteins through a conserved binding motif. We identified a similar DLC-1 binding motif in the C. elegans SC protein SYP-2, and mutation of the putative motif causes meiosis defects that are exacerbated by elevated temperatures. We propose that DLC-1 acts as a pre-synapsis chaperone-like factor for SYP proteins to help regulate their self-association prior to the signals for SC assembly, a role that is revealed by its increased essentiality at elevated temperatures.
The Role of Dementia Diagnostic Delay in the Inverse Cancer–Dementia Association
Authors: Hayes-Larson Eleanor , Shaw Crystal , Ackley Sarah F , Zimmerman Scott C , Glymour M Maria , Graff Rebecca E , Witte John S , Kobayashi Lindsay C , Mayeda Elizabeth Rose
Published: November 2021

Background

Cancer is inversely associated with dementia. Using simulations, we examined whether this inverse association may be explained by dementia diagnosis timing, including death before dementia diagnosis and differential diagnosis patterns by cancer history.

Methods

We used multistate Markov simulation models to generate cohorts 65 years of age and free of cancer and dementia at baseline; follow-up for incident cancer (all cancers, breast, prostate, and lung cancer), dementia, dementia diagnosis among those with dementia, and death occurred monthly over 30 years. Models specified no true effect of cancer on dementia, and used age-specific transition rates calibrated to U.S. population and cohort data. We varied the average lapse between dementia onset and diagnosis, including nondifferential and differential delays by cancer history, and examined observed incidence rate ratios (IRRs) for the effect of cancer on dementia diagnosis.

Results

Nondifferential dementia diagnosis delay introduced minimal bias (IRRs = 0.98–1.02) for all cancer, breast, and prostate models and substantial bias (IRR = 0.78) in lung cancer models. For the differential dementia diagnosis delay model of all cancer types combined, simulation scenarios with ≥20% lower dementia diagnosis rate (additional 4.5-month delay) in those with cancer history versus without yielded results consistent with literature estimates. Longer dementia diagnosis delays in those with cancer and higher mortality in those with cancer and dementia yielded more bias.

Conclusions

Delays in dementia diagnosis may play a role in the inverse cancer–dementia relationship, especially for more fatal cancers, but moderate differential delays in those with cancer were needed to fully explain the literature-reported IRRs.
Emerging Adult Caregivers: Quality of Contact, Ageism, and Future Caregiving
Authors: Canell Anastasia E , Caskie Grace I L
Published: November 2021

Background and Objectives

More emerging adults (18–25 years) are performing caregiving tasks for older adults, yet minimal research has examined how the quality of this experience may inform their willingness to provide care again in the future. Based on an intergroup contact theory framework, this study examined whether quality of contact moderated the relationship between ageist attitudes and willingness to be a caregiver at age 50.

Research Design and Methods

A sample of 248 emerging adults (mean age = 23.29) providing informal care to an older adult (aged 65+) completed survey measures online. Regression analysis with interaction terms was utilized to test study hypotheses.

Results

Quality of contact moderated the relationship between ageism and willingness to provide instrumental and nursing care in the future. As quality of contact decreased, overt ageist attitudes became more strongly related to less willingness to provide care, and ambivalent ageist attitudes became more strongly related to greater willingness to provide care.

Discussion and Implications

Caregiving during emerging adulthood may weaken the relationship between overt ageist attitudes on future caregiving intentions, especially when quality of contact is high, which is consistent with intergroup contact theory. Emerging adult caregivers may have a greater willingness to provide care in the future if supports focused on increasing quality of contact and emphasizing the strengths of the older adult population.
A simulation approach to assessing bias in a fisheries self-sampling programme
Authors: Clegg Thomas L , Fuglebakk Edvin , Ono Kotaro , Vølstad Jon Helge , Nedreaas Kjell
Published: November 2021

The hierarchical structure and non-probabilistic sampling in fisher self-sampling programmes makes it difficult to evaluate biases in total catch estimates. While so, it is possible to evaluate bias in the reported component of catches, which can then be used to infer likely bias in total catches. We assessed bias in the reported component of catches for 18 species in the Barents Sea trawl and longline fisheries by simulating 2000 realizations of the Norwegian Reference Fleet sampling programme using the mandatory catch reporting system, then for each realization we estimated fleet-wide catches using simple design-based estimators and quantified bias. We then inserted variations (e.g. simple random and systematic sampling) at different levels of the sampling design (sampling frame, vessel, and operation) to identify important factors and trends affecting bias in reported catches. We found that whilst current sampling procedures for fishing operations were not biased, non-probabilistic vessel sampling resulted in bias for some species. However, we concluded this was typically within the bounds of expected variation from probabilistic sampling. Our results highlight the risk of applying these simple estimators to all species. We recommend that future estimates of total catches consider alternative estimators and more conservative estimates of uncertainty where necessary.
Judicial dialogue on data retention laws: A breakthrough for European constitutional courts?
Authors: Podkowik Jan , Rybski Robert , Zubik Marek
Published: November 2021

In 2006 the European Union (EU) adopted a directive which imposed on telecommunication operators an obligation to store all the telecommunication data (data retention) and provide access to retained data to state authorities in order to combat serious crime. The new legislation had to been implemented by all EU Member States. Immediately after the directive was issued, it triggered controversy. Substantial reservations against this measure had been confirmed by five European constitutional courts already within the first eight years since its introduction. In 2014 the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) also acknowledged those reservations. Since then, further European constitutional courts invalidated domestic legislation on data retention. This jurisprudence posed a unique research opportunity to verify whether a genuine judicial dialogue within the varied legal systems occurred in the EU. In this article we analyze jurisprudence of constitutional courts, CJEU, and the European Court of Human Rights (ECtHR) on data retention. We identify interactions between domestic and international standards of privacy protection. The main method employed is a comparative study of all the judgments (following their translation) along with a simultaneous analysis of the common EU regulatory framework that all of those judgments challenged. A pivotal finding was an identification of three basic models clearly describing approaches taken by the constitutional courts involved. As the basis for our models, we used the approach of constitutional courts to two pan-European courts: ECtHR and CJEU. We claim that the analyzed jurisprudence constituted an important building block in the construction of a constitutional tradition relating to the protection of privacy based on the European Convention of Human Rights. Existence of this tradition led to the 2014 CJEU judgment (and to subsequent judgments of national constitutional courts).
Lie Algebras Arising from Nichols Algebras of Diagonal Type
Authors: Andruskiewitsch Nicolás , Angiono Iván , Rossi Bertone Fiorela
Published: November 2021

Let $\mathcal{B}_{\mathfrak{q}}$ be a finite-dimensional Nichols algebra of diagonal type with braiding matrix $\mathfrak{q}$, $\mathcal{L}_{\mathfrak{q}}$ be the corresponding Lusztig algebra as in [ 4], and $\operatorname{Fr}_{\mathfrak{q}}: \mathcal{L}_{\mathfrak{q}} \to U(\mathfrak{n}^{\mathfrak{q}})$ be the corresponding quantum Frobenius map as in [ 5]. We prove that the finite-dimensional Lie algebra $\mathfrak{n}^{\mathfrak{q}}$ is either 0 or the positive part of a semisimple Lie algebra $\mathfrak{g}^{\mathfrak{q}}$, which is determined for each $\mathfrak{q}$ in the list of [ 25].
Quadruple node of triple junctions of grain boundaries in a Eu2+-doped solid solution of the ions K+, Rb+, Cl− and Br−: an epifluorescence microscopy study using the doping ion as a fluorochrome
Authors: Cordero-Borboa Adolfo Ernesto , Unda-Angeles Rodrigo
Published: November 2021

Epifluorescence microscopy was used to unveil the geometry and relative spatial orientation of an arrangement of crystal defects, consisting of a quadruple node of triple junctions of grain boundaries, in a Eu2+-doped solid solution of K+, Rb+, Cl− and Br−. The doping ion was utilized as a fluorochrome. Microscopy images of different optical cross-sections of the arrangement of crystal defects under study were recorded and used to build an electronic three-dimensional reconstruction of this arrangement. The geometry is that of an irregular tristetrahedron, centred at the quadruple node, so that the tristetrahedron legs, deviating from the lattice <111>-zone axis directions, lie along the triple junctions, whereas the tristetrahedron faces collapse onto the grain boundaries. The deviation angles as well as the angles defined by different triple junction pairs and different grain boundary pairs were measured. The orientational deviation is larger than that in a KI single crystal but lower than that in a solid solution of K+, Cl− and Br−, meaning that the structural equilibrium depends on the matrix lattice structural character. Uncompensated local nanostrains, due to the ion substitution, are associated with the observed decrement in structural stability, in relation to the KI case, whereas compensated local nanostrains, provoked by the simultaneous substitution of cations and anions, are argued to be responsible for the observed increment in structural stability, in relation with the K(Cl, Br) case. The optical characterization of the fluorochrome, the recording and processing of the microscopy images, the building of the electronic 3D reconstruction, the angular measure methodology and the geometrical modelling are all carefully described.
Flexible and Modular Brain Network Dynamics Characterize Flow Experiences During Media Use: A Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Huskey Richard , Keene Justin Robert , Wilcox Shelby , Gong Xuanjun (Jason) , Adams Robyn , Najera Christina J
Published: November 2021

Flow is thought to occur when both task difficulty and individual ability are high. Flow experiences are highly rewarding and are associated with well-being. Importantly, media use can be a source of flow. Communication scholars have a long history of theoretical inquiry into how flow biases media selection, how different media content results in flow, and how flow influences media processing and effects. However, the neurobiological basis of flow during media use is not well understood, limiting our explanatory capacity to specify how media contribute to flow or well-being. Here, we show that flow is associated with a flexible and modular brain-network topology, which may offer an explanation for why flow is simultaneously perceived as high-control and effortless, even when the task difficulty is high. Our study tests core predictions derived from synchronization theory, and our results provide qualified support for the theory while also suggesting important theoretical updates.
Rupatadine ameliorated ulcerative colitis in rats via modulation of platelet-activatiweng factor/interleukin-6/vascular endothelial growth factor signalling pathway
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed A , Abdelmonaem Alyaa Abdelfattah , Abdel-Gaber Seham A , Hafez Heba M , Abdel Hafez Sara Mohamed Naguib , Yehia Abdelzaher Walaa
Published: November 2021

Objectives

This study aimed to analyse the potential effect of rupatadine (RUP) on ulcerative colitis (UC) induced by acetic acid (AA).

Methods

Forty male adult Wistar rats were divided into five groups: Control group: received vehicles for 14 days; AA model group: received AA at the 13th day; Sulfasalazine (SLZ) + AA group: received SLZ (250 mg/kg) for 14 days and AA at the 13th day; RUP-3 + AA group: received RUP (3 mg/kg/day) for 14 days and AA at the 13th day; and RUP-6 + AA group: received RUP (6 mg/kg/day) for 14 days and AA at the 13th day. Evidence of UC was assessed both macroscopically and microscopically. Oxidative stress markers (total antioxidant capacity and malondialdehyde), antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase), histamine and platelet-activating factor (PAF) were determined. Immunohistochemical estimations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were done.

Key findings

The AA group showed evidence of UC that was associated with a significant increase in oxidative stress, histamine and PAF levels with significant elevation in colonic VEGF and IL-6 immuno-expressions. RUP, in a dose-dependent manner, significantly ameliorated UC.

Conclusion

RUP protects against UC by reducing oxidative stress and by regulating the PAF/IL-6/VEGF pathway.
Shared immigration process, different perspectives: The impact of immigration-related gaps on couple relationships
Authors: Rapaport Maylys , Doucerain Marina M
Published: November 2021

Improving couples’ immigration experience requires characterizing aspects of the immigration process that affect couple relationships. Past research has set forth that post-immigration gaps between partners (discrepancies in their respective cultural adaptation) represent a key aspect. Accordingly, the present research investigated what kind of post-immigration gaps impact migrants’ couple relationship following immigration and how they do so. We used a qualitative dyadic research design, including in-depth open-ended interviews with each partner separately. This design allowed us to understand the experience of migrant couples at the dyadic level. The most notable challenges for couples were related to gaps in employment, finances, legal status, and satisfaction. Gaps led to conflicts in four situations: when one partner felt a lack of support from, or quality time with the other partner; when one partner experienced economic pressure because of his–her gender role values; when one partner had sole responsibility for his–her family stability and legal status in the host country; and when partners did not manage to make joint decisions when facing disagreement.
Zippered G-quadruplex/hemin DNAzyme: exceptional catalyst for universal bioanalytical applications
Authors: Li Jia , Wu Haiping , Yan Yurong , Yuan Taixian , Shu Yue , Gao Xin , Zhang Lu , Li Siqiao , Ding Shijia , Cheng Wei
Published: November 2021

G-quadruplex (G4)/hemin DNAzyme is promising horseradish peroxidase (HRP)-mimic candidate in the biological field. However, its relatively unsatisfactory catalytic capacity limits the potential applications. Inspired by nature protease, we conducted a proximity-enhanced cofactor assembly strategy (PECA) to form an exceptional HRP mimic, namely zippered G4/hemin DNAzyme (Z-G4/H). The hybridization of short oligonucleotides induced proximity assembly of the DNA-grafted hemin (DGH) with the complementary G4 sequences (cG4s), mimicking the tight configuration of protease cofactor and apoenzyme. The detailed investigations of catalytic efficiency and mechanism verified the higher activity, more rapid catalytic rate and high environmental tolerance of the Z-G4/H than the classical G4/hemin DNAzymes (C-G4/H). Furthermore, a proximity recognition transducer has been developed based on the PECA for sensitive detection of gene rearrangement and imaging human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 protein (HER2) dimerization on cell surfaces. Our studies demonstrate the high efficiency of Z-G4/H and its universal application potential in clinical diagnostics and biomolecule interaction research. It also may offer significant opportunities and inspiration for the engineering of the protease-free mimic enzyme.
Specificity and sensitivity of an RNA targeting type III CRISPR complex coupled with a NucC endonuclease effector
Authors: Grüschow Sabine , Adamson Catherine S , White Malcolm F
Published: November 2021

Type III CRISPR systems detect invading RNA, resulting in the activation of the enzymatic Cas10 subunit. The Cas10 cyclase domain generates cyclic oligoadenylate (cOA) second messenger molecules, activating a variety of effector nucleases that degrade nucleic acids to provide immunity. The prophage-encoded Vibrio metoecus type III-B (VmeCmr) locus is uncharacterised, lacks the HD nuclease domain in Cas10 and encodes a NucC DNA nuclease effector that is also found associated with Cyclic-oligonucleotide-based anti-phage signalling systems (CBASS). Here we demonstrate that VmeCmr is activated by target RNA binding, generating cyclic-triadenylate (cA3) to stimulate a robust NucC-mediated DNase activity. The specificity of VmeCmr is probed, revealing the importance of specific nucleotide positions in segment 1 of the RNA duplex and the protospacer flanking sequence (PFS). We harness this programmable system to demonstrate the potential for a highly specific and sensitive assay for detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus RNA with a limit of detection (LoD) of 2 fM using a commercial plate reader without any extrinsic amplification step. The sensitivity is highly dependent on the guide RNA used, suggesting that target RNA secondary structure plays an important role that may also be relevant in vivo.
Transfer learning compensates limited data, batch effects and technological heterogeneity in single-cell sequencing
Authors: Park Youngjun , Hauschild Anne-Christin , Heider Dominik
Published: November 2021

Tremendous advances in next-generation sequencing technology have enabled the accumulation of large amounts of omics data in various research areas over the past decade. However, study limitations due to small sample sizes, especially in rare disease clinical research, technological heterogeneity and batch effects limit the applicability of traditional statistics and machine learning analysis. Here, we present a meta-transfer learning approach to transfer knowledge from big data and reduce the search space in data with small sample sizes. Few-shot learning algorithms integrate meta-learning to overcome data scarcity and data heterogeneity by transferring molecular pattern recognition models from datasets of unrelated domains. We explore few-shot learning models with large scale public dataset, TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas) and GTEx dataset, and demonstrate their potential as pre-training dataset in other molecular pattern recognition tasks. Our results show that meta-transfer learning is very effective for datasets with a limited sample size. Furthermore, we show that our approach can transfer knowledge across technological heterogeneity, for example, from bulk cell to single-cell data. Our approach can overcome study size constraints, batch effects and technical limitations in analyzing single-cell data by leveraging existing bulk-cell sequencing data.
Fooling the World
Authors: Hutchings David
Published: November 2021

This chapter recounts how two nineteenth-century gentlemen, John William Draper and Andrew Dickson White, managed to fool much of the world by insisting in two landmark books that science and religion have always been opposed to one another, and that humanity must therefore make its choice between the two. Their books are History of the Conflict Between Religion and Science (1876) and A History of the Warfare Between Science and Theology in Christendom (1896), respectively. These texts are largely responsible for launching the conflict thesis: the now commonplace idea usually characterized as “God versus science.” And yet bizarrely, both men had intended to do precisely the opposite: they sought to reconcile their own Christian faith with science. This chapter tells the men’s stories, and asks how on earth they ended up getting things so wrong.
Electronic Music School
Authors: Kuhn Will , Hein Ethan
Published: November 2021

This book is a practical blueprint for teachers who want to begin teaching project-based music technology, production, and songwriting to secondary and college-age students. It aims to inspire teachers to expand beyond the usual ensemble offerings and to create a culture of unique creativity at their schools. The approach primarily draws upon the authors’ experiences developing and implementing the music technology program at Lebanon (Ohio) High School, one of the nation’s largest secondary-level programs, and courses at New York University and Montclair State University. While the lesson templates can be used with any hardware and software setup, the popular digital audio workstation Ableton Live is used for specific examples and screenshots.
Toward a Creative Music Curriculum
Authors: Kuhn Will , Hein Ethan
Published: November 2021

Research has shown the need for new types of music classes that emphasize amateur music production and popular music. The new types of programs contrast with traditional classical and performance-based music programs. Digital audio production offers an unprecedented opportunity to support students in active, culturally authentic music-making. A successful music technology program requires a change from the teacher-led ensemble model to a creative workshop structure. Furthermore, it requires the recognition that current popular styles have their own distinct aesthetics and creative approaches. Project-based learning also requires teachers to develop their own pedagogical creativity. This approach can attract students who do not currently participate in or identify with school music, but who nevertheless consider themselves to be musicians. The constructivist philosophy of music education, using teaching strategies that support students’ agency in their own learning, fosters self-motivation and a critical stance toward popular culture.
Ableton Live and Push
Authors: Kuhn Will , Hein Ethan
Published: November 2021

Ableton Live and the Push controller support a wide range of expressive, creative, and educational possibilities. This chapter covers how Live and Push differ from other digital audio workstations (DAWs) and MIDI interfaces. The DAW functions like a score and a suite of instruments, as well as a recording device—a tool for creating music from scratch, rather than simply documenting it. Ableton Live was originally designed for onstage performance, and its compositional workflow has an appealing improvisational aspect. However, rather than performing entire songs as DJs do, Live users play back clips and patterns of any arbitrary length. The Push’s tactile clip-launching interface is a genuinely new visualization and organization scheme, with potentially profound significance for users’ musical imaginations. Since Ableton Live is not the best DAW for every case, the chapter also compares it to three prominent alternatives: Avid’s Pro Tools, Apple’s Logic Pro, and Image-Line’s FL Studio.
Assessing Music Lab Projects
Authors: Kuhn Will , Hein Ethan
Published: November 2021

Creative project-based learning poses unique challenges for assessment: open-enrollment music technology classes must serve students with widely varying levels of prior knowledge and skills, there are no standardized guidelines for evaluating music technology projects, and it is impossible to evaluate creative work objectively in general. Project-based educators must therefore apply as much creativity to assessment as they apply to project design. This chapter suggests ways to balance the necessity of giving grades against a desire to build students’ intrinsic motivation, such as de-emphasizing letter grades and numerical scores in favor of verbal feedback. It also discusses how to create a classroom culture of constructive feedback, thereby introducing students to the methods and practices used by creative professionals. It gives strategies for modeling the kind of close listening students should be able to do for themselves, and for giving and receiving criticism without being excessively judgmental or defensive.
Virtual Electronic Music School
Authors: Kuhn Will , Hein Ethan
Published: November 2021

This chapter discusses how an electronic music school works in a post-COVID world. The chapter gives models for teaching online and in person while following social distancing requirements. The text reflects on teaching techniques that are impossible during a pandemic and introduces strategies for adapting to remote instruction. The disruption caused by the pandemic has forced reassessment of long-standing assumptions and may even foment valuable changes. For example, since large-ensemble rehearsal and performance are difficult or impossible to do remotely, music educators in the United States have both the obligation and the opportunity to compare their practices with those of other English-speaking countries that have de-emphasized large teacher-directed ensembles. The chapter compares synchronous and asynchronous approaches to online teaching and proposes online formats like livestreaming. Finally, in cases where face-to-face interaction is limited or impossible, the chapter presents the concept of an online community of practice and existing examples of such communities.
A Rising Tide
Authors: Kuhn Will , Hein Ethan
Published: November 2021

This chapter reflects on the curriculum outlined in the book and how it fits into the larger music education landscape. While project-based electronic music may not be appealing to all music teachers, the benefits of this approach to music education generally are broad and substantial. An open-enrollment music technology course creates a culture of inclusion that can lend a school’s music program greater cultural authenticity and demographic inclusiveness. When students are able to create music in their preferred styles, it validates their musical identities and helps them build toward lifelong learning. There are racial politics underlying the gulf between “school” music and “popular” music, and the chapter discusses the opposition that each successive form of African-American popular and vernacular music has faced in the academy. Critical popular music studies animated by antiracism can serve to both advance social justice goals, and to strengthen and enrich music programs.
Unique Considerations for Psychologists Working in Pediatric Critical Care
Authors: Cederna-Meko Crystal , Dennis Shannon L. , Ellens Rebecca E. H.
Published: November 2021

This chapter reviews the roles of pediatric psychologists in critical care settings. Assessment and intervention strategies are discussed while also highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Relevant literature is reviewed while also providing practical information regarding psychology practice in these complex settings. The authors summarize adverse psychiatric sequelae and risk factors during and after the critical care admission. The consultation and liaison roles of psychologists, including assessment and intervention, health promotion, interprofessional team support, and familial support through biopsychosocial and developmental frameworks, make a case for the value they bring to critical care teams. The chapter also reviews the key knowledge, skills, and attributes necessary for psychologists to function effectively within pediatric critical care settings.
Caring for Older Adults During and After Critical Illness
Authors: Duggan Maria C. , Van Julie , Ely E. Wesley
Published: November 2021

Over half of people with critical illness are older adults, and the number of older adults admitted to intensive care units has been increasing over time. Older adults have increased vulnerability to disease, disability, and adverse outcomes across many domains. To address this most effectively, a unique, interdisciplinary approach is necessary to optimize not only survival but also functional status and quality of life. A shortage of health care professionals equipped to care for the aging population makes it imperative that all professionals become aware of basic principles of caring for older adults. To equip them to care for this complex population, this chapter provides an overview of how aging impacts multiple domains of an older person with critical illness and describes evidence-based approaches to caring for older adults with critical illness.