bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Occupancy‐based diversity profiles: capturing biodiversity complexities while accounting for imperfect detection.
Authors: Abrams Jesse F. , Sollmann Rahel , Mitchell Simon L. , Struebig Matthew J. , Wilting Andreas
Published: March 2021

Measuring the multidimensional diversity properties of a community is of great importance for ecologists, conservationists and stakeholders. Diversity profiles, a plotted series of Hill numbers, simultaneously capture the common diversity indices. However, diversity metrics require information on species abundance, often relying on raw count data without accounting for imperfect and varying detection. Hierarchical occupancy models account for variation in detectability, and Hill numbers have been expanded to allow estimation based on occupancy probability. But the ability of occupancy‐based diversity profiles to reproduce patterns in abundance‐based diversity has not been investigated. Here, we fit community occupancy models to simulated animal communities to explore how well occupancy‐based diversity profiles reflect patterns in true abundance‐based diversity. Because we expect occupancy‐based diversity to be overestimated, we further tested a occupancy thresholding approach to reduce potential biases in the estimated diversity profiles. Finally, we use empirical bird community data to present how the framework can be extended to consider species similarity. The simulation study showed that occupancy‐based diversity profiles produced among‐community patterns in diversity similar to true abundance diversity profiles, although within‐community diversity was generally overestimated. Applying an occupancy threshold reduced positive bias, but resulted in negative bias in richness estimates and slightly reduced the ability to reproduce true differences among the simulated communities; thus, we do not recommend application of this threshold. Application of our approach to a large bird dataset indicated differential species diversity patterns in communities of different habitat types. Accounting for phylogenetic and ecological similarities between species reduced variability in diversity among habitats. Our framework allows investigating the complexity of diversity from species detection data, while accounting for imperfect and varying detection probabilities, as well as species similarities. Visualizing results in the form of diversity profiles facilitates comparison of diversity between sites or across time. The approach offers opportunities for further development, for example by using local abundances estimated using the Royle–Nichols or N‐mixture models and further exploration of thresholding methods. In spite of some challenges, occupancy‐based diversity profiles are useful for studying and monitoring patterns in biodiversity.
Localization of interictal discharge origin: A simultaneous intracranial electroencephalographic–functional magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Tehrani Negar , Wilson William , Pittman Daniel J. , Mosher Victoria , Peedicail Joseph S. , Aghakhani Yahya , Beers Craig A. , Gaxiola‐Valdez Ismael , Singh Shaily , Goodyear Bradley G. , Federico Paolo ,   Calgary Comprehensive Epilepsy Program collaborators
Published: March 2021

Objective

Scalp electroencephalographic (EEG)–functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies suggest that the maximum blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) response to an interictal epileptiform discharge (IED) identifies the area of IED generation. However, the maximum BOLD response has also been reported in distant, seemingly irrelevant areas. Given the poor postoperative outcomes associated with extra‐temporal lobe epilepsy, we hypothesized this finding is more common when analyzing extratemporal IEDs as compared to temporal IEDs. We further hypothesized that a subjective, holistic assessment of other significant BOLD clusters to identify the most clinically relevant cluster could be used to overcome this limitation and therefore better identify the likely origin of an IED. Specifically, we also considered the second maximum cluster and the cluster closest to the electrode contacts where the IED was observed.

Methods

Maps of significant IED‐related BOLD activation were generated for 48 different IEDs recorded from 33 patients who underwent intracranial EEG‐fMRI. The locations of the maximum, second maximum, and closest clusters were identified for each IED. An epileptologist, blinded to these cluster assignments, selected the most clinically relevant BOLD cluster, taking into account all available clinical information. The distances between these BOLD clusters and their corresponding IEDs were then measured.

Results

The most clinically relevant cluster was the maximum cluster for 56% (27/48) of IEDs, the second maximum cluster for 13% (6/48) of IEDs, and the closest cluster for 31% (15/48) of IEDs. The maximum clusters were closer to IED contacts for temporal than for extratemporal IEDs (p = .022), whereas the most clinically relevant clusters were not significantly different (p = .056).

Significance

The maximum BOLD response to IEDs may not always be the most indicative of IED origin. We propose that available clinical information should be used in conjunction with EEG‐fMRI data to identify a BOLD cluster representative of the IED origin.
Everolimus: A potential therapeutic agent targeting PI3K/Akt pathway in brain insulin system dysfunction and associated neurobehavioral deficits
Authors: Bansal Seema , Agrawal Madhunika , Mahendiratta Saniya , Kumar Subodh , Arora Shiyana , Joshi Rupa , Prajapat Manisha , Sarma Phulen , Prakash Ajay , Chopra Kanwaljit , Medhi Bikash
Published: March 2021

Background

It is well accepted that PI3k/Akt signaling pathway is a potential therapeutic window which regulates metabolism and energy homeostasis within the brain, and is an important mediator of normal neuronal physiological functions. Dysregulation of this pathway results in impaired insulin signaling, learning and memory and neuronal survival.

Objectives

Elucidating the role of everolimus in intracerebroventricular (ICV) streptozotocin induced Insulin/IGF‐1 dependent PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway dysregulation and associated neurobehavioral deficits.

Methods

Rats were administered with streptozotocin (3 mg/kg) intracerebroventricular, followed by administration of everolimus (1 mg/kg) orally for 21 days. After that, Morris water maze and passive avoidance tests were performed for assessment of memory. Animals were sacrificed to evaluate brain insulin pathway dysfunction, neurotrophic, apoptotic, inflammatory, and biochemical markers in rat brain. To elucidate the mechanism of action of everolimus, PI3K inhibitor, wortmannin was administered in the presence of everolimus in one group.

Results

Streptozotocin administration resulted in a significant decrease of brain insulin, insulin growth factor‐1 levels, and alterations in behavioral, neurotrophic (BDNF), inflammatory (TNF‐α), apoptotic (NF‐κB, Bcl2 and Bax) and biochemical (AChE and ChAT assay) parameters in comparison to sham group rats. Everolimus significantly mitigated the deleterious behavioral, biochemical, and molecular changes in rats having central insulin dysfunction. However, the protective effect of everolimus was completely abolished when it was administered in the presence of wortmannin.

Conclusion

Findings from the study reveal that mTOR inhibitors can be an important treatment strategy for neurobehavioral deficits occurring due to central insulin pathway dysfunction. Protective effect of drugs is via modulation of PI3K/Akt pathway.
Crystal structure of an inulosucrase from Halalkalicoccusjeotgali B3T, a halophilic archaeal strain
Authors: Ghauri Komal , Pijning Tjaard , Munawar Nayla , Ali Hazrat , Ghauri Muhammad A. , Anwar Munir A. , Wallis Russell
Published: March 2021

Several archaea harbor genes that code for fructosyltransferase (FTF) enzymes. These enzymes have not been characterized yet at structure–function level, but are of extreme interest in view of their potential role in the synthesis of novel compounds for food, nutrition, and pharmaceutical applications. In this study, 3D structure of an inulin‐type fructan producing enzyme, inulosucrase (InuHj), from the archaeon Halalkalicoccus jeotgali was resolved in its apo form and with bound substrate (sucrose) molecule and first transglycosylation product (1‐kestose). This is the first crystal structure of an FTF from halophilic archaea. Its overall five‐bladed β‐propeller fold is conserved with previously reported FTFs, but also shows some unique features. The InuHj structure is closer to those of Gram‐negative bacteria, with exceptions such as residue E266, which is conserved in FTFs of Gram‐positive bacteria and has possible role in fructan polymer synthesis in these bacteria as compared to fructooligosaccharide (FOS) production by FTFs of Gram‐negative bacteria. Highly negative electrostatic surface potential of InuHj, due to a large amount of acidic residues, likely contributes to its halophilicity. The complex of InuHj with 1‐kestose indicates that the residues D287 in the 4B‐4C loop, Y330 in 4D‐5A, and D361 in the unique α2 helix may interact with longer FOSs and facilitate the binding of longer FOS chains during synthesis. The outcome of this work will provide targets for future structure–function studies of FTF enzymes, particularly those from archaea.
Improving reliability of high‐strength steel designed against fatigue limit using surface crack nondamaging technology by shot peening
Authors: Nam Ki‐Woo , Ando Kotoji , Kim Min‐Heon , Takahashi Koji
Published: March 2021

Recently, surface crack nondamaging technology has been developed to render harmless surface cracks that can reduce the fatigue limit of metals by 20–60%. This is due to the effects of compressive residual stress induced by shot peening. To improve the reliability of high‐strength steel equipment designed against fatigue limit using surface crack nondamaging technology, the following characteristics were determined: (1) the effects of surface crack aspect ratio on maximum harmless crack depth (ahlm) at high‐strength steel for three residual stress distributions; (2) the relationship between the maximum allowable crack depth (acrN) andahlmassuming the value of safety factor; (3) the relationship between minimum detectable crack depth via nondestructive inspection(aNDI)andahlm, assuming that nondestructive inspection could detect the crack with sufficient probability; and (4) the relationships betweenahlm,aNDI, andacrN.
Education market with the Chinese characteristics: The rise of minban and transnational higher education in China
Authors: Mok Ka Ho
Published: March 2021

In the last few decades, the Chinese higher education system has changed considerably from an elitist model to a massified one with public and minban/transnational provisions. Accordingly, this study sets out against the context of higher education expansion initiated in late 1998 to critically examine the major trends of non‐state (including minban and transnational) higher education developments. More specifically, it discusses how minban higher education has transformed and why transnational higher education has evolved and become far more popular in China. Against the marketisation and privatisation of education context, this article focuses on reviewing policy change and university governance to diversify higher education provision through the market forces/non‐state provision. A critical examination of the changing state‐market‐education relationship would enable us to appreciate the complex social, economic and political issues that the Chinese government has to tackle, especially when the country confronts the dilemma of adopting a more liberal approach in reform with the fear of excessive external influences to the political regime or a more conservative approach which would limit the country's further development. The present article contributes to a better understanding of the ‘education market’ formation in China.
Metacognitive attitude for decision making at a university hospital
Authors: Lins Marcos Estellita , Pamplona Leonardo , Lins Angela Estellita , Lyra Karina
Published: March 2021

In the present study, we argue for the urgency of including a metacognitive attitude in decision‐making processes in complex social problems, with insights for the debate on decision sciences. We explore overlooked possibilities from the understanding of metacognitive schemes, subjectivity, and the intersubjective elements that participate and interfere in the decision‐making process. We discuss the relationship between metacognition as a state of consciousness, decision making, and the paradoxical nature of complex systems. We also propose a method to help eliciting personal and group metacognitive content named Complex Holographic Assessment of Paradoxical Problems—CHAP2. It intends to support decision making through the graphic visualization of mental schemas, thus enhancing metacognition. This, in turn, emerged as a promising way to promote a more systemic view of a given social problem. We believe that this work contributes with pathways to develop this metacognitive approach and achieve consensus solutions, obtained through the interaction between different agents, with the problematic situation being modeled according to the particular views of the actors involved.
Proteolytic Shedding of Human Colony‐Stimulating Factor 1 Receptor and its implication
Authors: Wei Yue , Ma Menghui , Lin Sheng , Li Xin , Shu Yue , Wang Ziwei , Zhou Yuhang , Hu Banglian , Cheng Baoying , Duan Shengshun , Huang Xiaohua , Xu Huaxi , Zhang Yun‐Wu , Zheng Honghua
Published: March 2021

Both Colony‐stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) and triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells‐2 (TREM2) are trans‐membrane receptors and are expressed in the brain primarily by microglia. Mutations in these two microglia‐expressed genes associated with neurodegenerative disease have recently been grouped under the term “microgliopathy”. Several literatures have indicated that CSF1R and TREM2 encounters a stepwise shedding and TREM2 variants impair or accelerate the processing. However, whether CSF1R variant affects the shedding of CSF1R remains elusive. Here, plasmids containing human CSF1R or TREM2 were transiently transfected into the human embryonic kidney (HEK) 293T cells. Using Western Blot and/or ELISA assay, we demonstrated that, similar to those of TREM2, an N‐terminal fragment (NTF) shedding of CSF1R ectodomain and a subsequent C‐terminal fragment (CTF) of CSF1R intra‐membrane were generated by a disintegrin and metalloprotease (ADAM) family member and by γ‐secretase, respectively. And the shedding was inhibited by treatment with Batimastat, an ADAM inhibitor, or DAPT or compound E, a γ‐secretase inhibitor. Importantly, we show that the cleaved fragments, both extracellular domain and intracellular domain of a common disease associated I794T variant, were decreased significantly. Together, our studies demonstrate a stepwise approach of human CSF1R cleavage and contribute to understand the pathogenicity of CSF1R I794T variant in adult‐onset leukoencephalopathy with axonal spheroids and pigmented glia (ALSP). These studies also suggest that the cleaved ectodomain fragment released from CSF1R may be proposed as a diagnostic biomarker for ALSP.
Host genetic drift and adaptation in the evolution and maintenance of parasite resistance
Authors: White P. Signe , Arslan Danial , Kim David , Penley McKenna , Morran Levi
Published: March 2021

Host–parasite interactions may often be subject to opposing evolutionary forces, which likely influence the evolutionary trajectories of both partners. Natural selection and genetic drift are two major evolutionary forces that act in host and parasite populations. Further, population size is a significant determinant of the relative strengths of these forces. In small populations, drift may undermine the persistence of beneficial alleles, potentially impeding host adaptation to parasites. Here, we investigate two questions: (a) can selection pressure for increased resistance in small, susceptible host populations overcome the effects of drift and (b) can resistance be maintained in small host populations? To answer these questions, we experimentally evolved the host Caenorhabditis elegans against its bacterial parasite, Serratia marcescens, for 13 host generations. We found that strong selection favouring increased host resistance was insufficient to counteract drift in small populations, resulting in persistently high host mortality. Additionally, in small populations of resistant hosts, we found that selection for the maintenance of resistance is not always sufficient to curb the loss of resistance. We compared these results with selection in large host populations. We found that initially resistant, large host populations were able to maintain high levels of resistance. Likewise, initially susceptible, large host populations were able to gain resistance to the parasite. These results show that strong selection pressure for survival is not always sufficient to counteract drift. In consideration of C. elegans natural population dynamics, we suggest that drift may often impede selection in nature.
Classification of psychodermatological disorders
Authors: Ferreira Bárbara Roque , Jafferany Mohammad
Published: March 2021

Currently, psychodermatological disorders are classified under different criteria exhibiting several limitations, and no single universal classification system exists. Herein, we discuss previous suggested classifications in psychodermatology, highlighting their limitations, and we propose a new classification system, without redundant information and with accurate terminology, incorporating the relevance of the terms “disorder,” “disease,” and “illness” in psychodermatology. In this new classification, the following three groups are then suggested: “primary psychodermatological disease,” to include primary dermatoses, where psychological stress, a psychological mechanism, and/or psychopathology are some of the main elements that are recognized in the etiopathogenesis (which may induce and/or worsen a primary dermatosis); “primary psychodermatological illness,” to include skin symptoms, with or without secondary self‐induced skin lesions (such as excoriations), without a primary dermatosis, and where psychopathology, psychological characteristics, and/or a neuropathic mechanism, where stress plays a relevant role, are key features responsible for the skin symptoms and the secondary skin lesions; and “secondary psychodermatological disorder,” to include medications prescribed in dermatology with psychiatric consequences and medications prescribed in psychiatry with dermatologic consequences. Our goal with this system is to broaden the recognition of psychodermatology and improve patient management, with practical and scientific relevance for dermatologists, psychiatrists, and psychologists working in psychodermatology, but also for general practitioners, physicians from other medical and surgical specialties as well as specialists in esthetic dermatology, who frequently encounter patients with psychodermatological disorders.
How Debit Cards Enable the Poor to Save More
Authors: BACHAS PIERRE , GERTLER PAUL , HIGGINS SEAN , SEIRA ENRIQUE
Published: March 2021

We study an at‐scale natural experiment in which debit cards were given to cash transfer recipients who already had a bank account. Using administrative account data and household surveys, we find that beneficiaries accumulated a savings stock equal to 2% of annual income after two years with the card. The increase in formal savings represents an increase in overall savings, financed by a reduction in current consumption. There are two mechanisms. First, debit cards reduce transaction costs of accessing money. Second, they reduce monitoring costs, which led beneficiaries to check their account balances frequently and build trust in the bank.
Theme trends and knowledge structure of assisted reproductive technology and birth defects: A quantitative and co‐word analysis
Authors: Yang Na , Sun Li , Tan Jichun
Published: March 2021

Aim

The main purpose of our study is to determine the current research status of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and birth defects by means of co‐word analysis, to explore the hot spots and weak points of current research, and to provide ideas and opinions for follow‐up researchers.

Methods

The PubMed database was used to investigate the knowledge structures of the applied words ART and birth defects. The published literature was searched until December 31, 2018. The extracted MeSH terms were quantified using the Bibliographic Item Co‐Occurrence Matrix Builder and the high‐frequency MeSH terms were determined. According to the MeSH term‐source article matrix, hierarchical cluster analysis was performed using SPSS 19.0. The high frequency MeSH term co‐occurrence matrix was constructed to support strategic diagram and social network analysis (SNA).

Results

According to the search strategy, 1635 papers were included. Of all the extracted MeSH terms, 105 high frequency MeSH terms were identified and the hotspots were classified into nine categories. In the strategic diagram, research on the effects of prenatal diagnosis methods and ART on the development of offspring has been well developed. In contrast, research on reproductive ethics, epigenetics, and epidemiology is relatively immature, indicating the need for future research. For SNA results, the position status of each component is described by the center value.

Conclusions

By providing a quantitative bibliometric study, it can help with the overall command of the latest topic and guide researchers in their new projects.
Frankfort Mandibular Plane Angle: Critically Appraised Topic (CAT)
Authors: Goldstein Gary , Goodacre Charles
Published: March 2021

Purpose

The objective of this Critically Appraised Topic was to determine the level of evidence relative to the usefulness of the Frankfort mandibular plane angle in prosthodontic treatment.

Materials and Methods

The Patient Intervention Comparison Outcome (PICO) mesh heading received zero PubMed references, as did Frankfort Mandibular Plane Angle (FMA) as a determinant for dental occlusion and Frankfort Mandibular Plane Angle as a determinant of the occlusal scheme. Frankfort Mandibular Plane Angle alone received 168 PubMed citations that highlighted 2 DiPietro articles and a third from the orthodontics literature which was a Randomized Controlled Trial not relevant to the PICO. Four others, three prosthodontic and one orthodontic publication, were related to the PICO. A Google search revealed one additional article, which was a narrative review.

Results

Nine articles were related to the search, 2 of which were clinical trials that revealed no evidence to support the use of FMA as a diagnostic test.

Conclusion

Based on the limited data presented above, there is a lack of evidence to support the use of FMA as a diagnostic procedure to predict outcomes, or dictate prosthodontic treatment.
METHODS TO ESTIMATE EROSION IN SEDIMENTARY BASINS
Authors: Iyer Karthik , Hartz Ebbe H. , Schmid Daniel W.
Published: March 2021

Net erosion, the difference between the present‐day and maximum burial depths of a reference unit, may have a major impact on hydrocarbon prospectivity in a sedimentary basin. Erosion may affect all the components of a petroleum system, from source rock to reservoir to seal. In most cases, vitrinite reflectance (VR), temperature and sonic velocity data, which are often readily available, can be used to determine net erosion in a region based on the thermal and mechanical evolution of sedimentary layers with burial. This paper revisits these methods and discusses the determination of net erosion from these datasets. Furthermore, it is shown that a closer look at the data is warranted if the estimates derived from complementary VR/temperature and velocity datasets significantly diverge. Such differences can be reconciled by critically examining the datasets and the regional geology, resulting in erosion estimates from both datasets which are within 100 m of each other. Lastly, a fully automated, process‐driven method combined with multi‐objective optimization algorithms and that takes all three datasets into account is showcased while determining net erosion for three wells located in the Norwegian Barents Sea. One of the benefits of this method is that it explores a wide range of likely scenarios that would best match the different datasets. Furthermore, the method can also automatically flag datasets that are inconsistent with each other by returning an overall low fit score. These datasets can then be critically examined to determine their reliability and to arrive at a more consistent erosion estimate, reducing the error margin to about 100 m.
HYDROCARBON GENERATION AND MIGRATION FROM BARREMIAN – APTIAN SOURCE ROCKS, NORTHERN ORANGE BASIN, OFFSHORE WESTERN SOUTH AFRICA: A 3D NUMERICAL MODELLING STUDY
Authors: Samakinde C. A. , van Bever Donker J. M. , Durrheim R. , Manzi M.
Published: March 2021

A 3D numerical modelling workflow was applied to the Barremian—Aptian source rock interval in a shelfal to lower slope area of the northern Orange Basin, offshore western South Africa. The main objective was to investigate the timing of hydrocarbon generation and migration. Hydrocarbon migration has previously been investigated in the south of the basin by relating gas escape features with structural elements as seen on seismic sections, but migration pathways are still poorly understood. The modelling study was based on data from three exploration wells (AO‐1, AE‐1 and AF‐1) together with 42 2D seismic sections totalling 3537 km in length, and a 3D seismic cube covering an area of 750 sq. km.

Modelled formation temperatures increase from north to south in the study area and were consistent with downhole temperatures at well locations. However, there is variation between measured and modelled values of vitrinite reflectance (VR), especially in the Turonian and Cenomanian intervals. The measured VR is lower than the modelled VR within the Turonian section in the north of the study area, suggesting that erosion has affected the thermal maturity of the sediments. However, in the Cenomanian interval, the measured VR is higher than the modelled VR. Uplift, increased erosion in the hinterland and sediment transport to the coastal areas resulted in Cenomanian progradation of the Orange Basin fill. This together with a heat flow pulse resulted in increased thermal maturities in the study area.

Modelling results show that hydrocarbon generation began in the central part of the study area by 116 Ma and reached a peak in the Late Cretaceous (65 Ma). Hydrocarbon migration began at about 110 Ma with an expulsion efficiency of 0.77. At the present day, ∼100% transformation of reactive kerogen into hydrocarbons has taken place in the central part of the study area, with random gas migration within Cenomanian and Albian reservoirs. Modelled oil migration likely influenced by hydrodynamic factors is down‐dip (westwards), towards deeper‐water, more distal parts of the basin.

Gas saturation on a reactivated listric fault, which was ∼100% saturated at 93 Ma, declined to ∼15% by 65 Ma. This decrease in gas saturation is linked to uplift of the African margin in the Late Cretaceous which resulted in fault reactivation and re‐migration of gas.

Despite the uncertainties which are associated with petroleum systems modelling, the study provides an insight into hydrocarbon migration in the northern part of the Orange Basin and contributes to the de‐risking of future oil and gas exploration in this area.
A standardized telephone interview with validated questionnaires for very long‐term evaluation of women lost to follow‐up after a stress urinary incontinence procedure
Authors: Kuprasertkul Amy , Christie Alana L. , Zimmern Philippe
Published: March 2021

Objectives

Telephone interviews including questionnaires have been used to obtain very long‐term (>10‐year) follow‐up after stress urinary incontinence (SUI) procedures in women otherwise lost to follow‐up (LTF). For questionnaires validated for office use, our goal was to evaluate recent telephone vs last clinic scores in a long‐term study.

Methods

For women with >10 years of follow‐up after anterior vaginal wall suspension (AVWS) for bothersome SUI associated with an anterior compartment prolapse, questionnaire scores from their last clinic encounter were compared with their scores from a standardized telephone interview at long‐term follow‐up. The validated questionnaires were Urinary Distress Inventory 6‐Short Form (UDI‐6), International Incontinence Questionnaire 7‐Short Form (IIQ‐7), and Quality of Life (QoL).

Results

Eighty‐four women underwent a telephone interview (median follow‐up: 13.8 years, interquartile range [IQR]: 12.2‐17) after AVWS. The median difference between telephone and clinic visit was 10.2 years (IQR: 6.1‐12.2). The clinic UDI‐6 total score remained low but was higher than the phone score (mean difference 1.2, P = .0023). The UDI‐6 Q2, Q3, Q5, IIQ‐7, and QoL scores did not significantly differ between clinic and phone. For “incontinent” AVWS patients (UDI‐6 Q3 ≥ 2), there was a larger difference between clinic and phone UDI‐6 total score (P < .0001), while “dry” patients (UDI‐6 Q3 ≤ 1) responded similarly.

Conclusions

In women who would otherwise be LTF after anti‐incontinence native tissue repair AVWS, UDI‐6 total score varied slightly between last clinic and long‐term follow‐up phone interviews, but QoL and IIQ‐7 remained similar.
Are These “Wings” or a “Jet Pack?” Students Assess the Informal Curriculum of the UNT Online Master's Program
Authors: Henry Doug , Brown Nicole
Published: March 2021

A growing literature evaluates online learning outcomes and pedagogy within the virtual classroom, though assessments of entire online programs are comparatively rare. As online learning takes place through multiple modalities in multiple contexts, we were particularly eager to explore the informal and hidden curricula within the University of North Texas (UNT) online program in applied anthropology–the structural situations and circumstances of learning from the assignments, approaches, and pedagogies that we formally employ. We draw on alumni assessments of value to identify where these informal and hidden areas of our curricula are, and the challenges and opportunities they present. Our results underscore how much professional socialization takes place outside the online classroom, from gaining experience with virtual communication and collaborative work teams, balancing time‐management skills, and being able to apply anthropological knowledge to different work situations. Current events (this manuscript was finalized at the time of widespread COVID‐19 “shelter‐in‐place” quarantines and shuttered offices) suggest that learning how to succeed at online collaborations and virtual work teams will rapidly become globally critical occupational skills, and professional teaching programs will be increasingly pressed to respond.
A literature synthesis resolves litter intrinsic constraints on fungal dynamics and decomposition across standing dead macrophytes
Authors: Hebert Tori A. , Halvorson Halvor M. , Kuehn Kevin A.
Published: March 2021

The standing dead phase is an important stage in the decomposition of emergent vegetation in marsh wetlands, yet few studies have examined how intrinsic litter traits constrain rates of standing litter decomposition or fungal colonization across plant tissue types or species. To address broad constraints on the decomposition of standing dead litter, we conducted a systematic survey of emergent standing dead decomposition studies that measured decay rates and/or fungal biomass, and litter % lignin, carbon:nitrogen (C:N) and/or carbon:phosphorus (C:P). Across 52 datasets, litter of low C:N and C:P ratios exhibited increased decomposition rates (r = −0.737 and −0.645, respectively), whereas % lignin was not significantly correlated with decomposition rates (r = 0.149). Mixed‐effects models for litter decomposition rates indicated significant effects of litter molar C:N and C:N + lignin as an additive model, with the former providing marginally better support. Litter % lignin, however, was strongly negatively correlated with fungal biomass (r = −0.669), indicating greater fungal colonization of low‐lignin litter, and not correlated with C:N (r = −0.337) and C:P (r = −0.456) ratios. The best‐supported model predicting fungal biomass was litter molar C:N, with the C:N + lignin additive model also showing significant effects. Fungal carbon‐use efficiency (CUE) also had a strong negative correlation with % lignin (r = −0.604), molar C:N (r = −0.323) and C:P (r = −0.632) across datasets. Our study demonstrates the constraining effects that litter stoichiometry and % lignin elicit on decomposition of standing dead litter and fungal colonization, respectively. These findings improve our understanding of biogeochemical cycling and prediction of the fates of C and nutrients in wetlands.
Contrasting anther glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase activities between two bean varieties suggest an important role in reproductive heat tolerance
Authors: Santiago James P. , Soltani Ali , Bresson Madeline M. , Preiser Alyssa L. , Lowry David B. , Sharkey Thomas D.
Published: March 2021

Common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) are highly sensitive to elevated temperatures, and rising global temperatures threaten bean production. Plants at the reproductive stage are especially susceptible to heat stress due to damage to male (anthers) and female (ovary) reproductive tissues, with anthers being more sensitive to heat. Heat damage promotes early tapetal cell degradation, and in beans this was shown to cause male infertility. In this study, we focus on understanding how changes in leaf carbon export in response to elevated temperature stress contribute to heat‐induced infertility. We hypothesize that anther glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) activity plays an important role at elevated temperature and promotes thermotolerance. To test this hypothesis, we compared heat‐tolerant and susceptible common bean genotypes using a combination of phenotypic, biochemical, and physiological approaches. Our results identified changes in leaf sucrose export, anther sugar accumulation and G6PDH activity and anther H2O2 levels and antioxidant‐related enzymes between genotypes at elevated temperature. Further, anther respiration rate was found to be lower at high temperature in both bean varieties. Overall, our results support the hypothesis that enhanced male reproductive heat tolerance involves changes in the anther oxidative pentose phosphate pathway, which supplies reductants to critical H2O2 scavenging enzymes.
Can I trust you? Children's perceptions of friends and classmates who gossip
Authors: Caivano Oksana , Isik Ipek , Talwar Victoria
Published: March 2021

This study examined children and adolescents' perceptions of trustworthiness about peers who shared gossip. Participants (N = 134, ages 8–16 years) completed vignettes from the gossip listener's perspective and evaluated how trustworthy the sharer was. The main findings revealed that a classmate gossiping negatively about the listener's friend was considered less trustworthy than the other relationship type conditions. Furthermore, in negative gossip scenarios, the sharer was rated more trustworthy when gossiping about the target's behavior that affected another person compared to an action only affecting themselves. Finally, compared to children, adolescents rated their friend who gossiped about another friend more trustworthy. This study helps in understanding to what extent children and adolescents trust individuals to provide them with important social information.
Trichoderma spp. volatile organic compounds protect grapevine plants by activating defense‐related processes against downy mildew
Authors: Lazazzara Valentina , Vicelli Bianca , Bueschl Christoph , Parich Alexandra , Pertot Ilaria , Schuhmacher Rainer , Perazzolli Michele
Published: March 2021

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are produced by soil‐borne microorganisms and play crucial roles in fungal interactions with plants and phytopathogens. Although VOCs have been characterized in Trichoderma spp., the mechanisms against phytopathogens strongly differ according to the strain and pathosystem. This study aimed at characterizing VOCs produced by three Trichoderma strains used as biofungicides and to investigate their effects against grapevine downy mildew (caused by Plasmopara viticola). A VOC‐mediated reduction of downy mildew severity was found in leaf disks treated with Trichoderma asperellum T34 (T34), T. harzianum T39 (T39), and T. atroviride SC1 (SC1) and 31 compounds were detected by head space‐solid phase microextraction gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Among the Trichoderma VOCs annotated, α‐farnesene, cadinene, 1,3‐octadiene, 2‐pentylfuran, and 6‐pentyl‐2H‐pyran‐2‐one reduced downy mildew severity on grapevine leaf disks. In particular, 6‐pentyl‐2H‐pyran‐2‐one and 2‐pentylfuran increased the accumulation of callose and enhanced the modulation of defense‐related genes after P. viticola inoculation, indicating an induction of grapevine defense mechanisms. Moreover, 6‐pentyl‐2H‐pyran‐2‐one activated the hypersensitive response after P. viticola inoculation, possibly to reinforce the grapevine defense reaction. These results indicate that Trichoderma VOCs can induce grapevine resistance, and these molecules could be further applied to control grapevine downy mildew.
Psychological distance and the pandemic: Insights from Construal Level Theory and relationship science
Authors: Bowen Jeffrey D.
Published: March 2021

The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has brought about unprecedented challenges to public health. Compounding these hardships is the fact that typical social functions such as maintaining valued relationships cannot proceed as usual. Social cognitive perspectives like that presented by Construal Level Theory (CLT) can provide a valuable framework for understanding our unique interpersonal experiences during this difficult time, and potentially offer avenues for adaptation and healthier coping. I begin by introducing CLT and follow with a discussion of its implications for understanding the psychological effects of social distancing on our interpersonal relationships and pursuit of social goals. I describe how abstract and concrete construals can affect our experiences of maintaining close relationships that vary widely in terms of geographic distance or separation. CLT can offer insight not only into how geographic distance or closeness may shape our thoughts and feelings about our close others, but also how we approach pursuing goals that are directly or indirectly shaped by these close others. The more effectively we can frame and communicate about experiences during this challenging time in history, the better equipped we may be to support our public health apparatus and satisfy our psychological needs.
Convalescent plasma treatment of critically ill intensive care COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Lindemann Monika , Lenz Veronika , Knop Dietmar , Klump Hannes , Alt Mira , Aufderhorst Ulrich W. , Schipper Leonie , Schwarzkopf Sina , Meller Lara , Steckel Nina , Koldehoff Michael , Heinold Andreas , Heinemann Falko M. , Fischer Johannes , Hutschenreuter Gabriele , Knabbe Cornelius , Dolff Sebastian , Brenner Thorsten , Dittmer Ulf , Witzke Oliver , Herbstreit Frank , Horn Peter A. , Krawczyk Adalbert
Published: March 2021

Background

Infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) may be life‐threatening, and specific antiviral drugs are currently not available. However, first studies indicated that convalescent plasma treatment might improve the clinical outcome of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) patients.

Study Design and Methods

In the current study, we investigated the efficacy of convalescent plasma treatment in eight COVID‐19 patients. All the patients were critically ill, and seven of them were SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA–positive when starting treatment. SARS‐CoV‐2–specific antibodies were determined by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay detecting immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against the S1 protein (Euroimmun), and the neutralizing titers were determined with a cell‐culture‐based neutralization assay. Plasma treatment started between 4 and 23 days after the onset of symptoms. The patients were usually treated by three plasma units, each containing 200–280 ml, which was applied at day 1, 3, and 5.

Results

Donor sera had on average lower IgG antibody ratios and neutralizing titers than the COVID‐19 patients before the onset of treatment (median ratio of 5.8 and neutralizing titer of 1:320 vs. 7.5 and 1:640, respectively). Nevertheless, we observed an increase of antibody ratios in seven and of neutralizing titers in five patients after treatment; which did, however, not correlate with patient survival. Plasma treatment was effective in three patients, but five deceased despite treatment. Patients who deceased had a later treatment onset than survivors and finally died from multiple organ failure.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that the efficacy of convalescent plasma treatment of critically ill COVID‐19 patients who already had developed strong antiviral immune responses and organ complications is limited.
Ozone oil promotes wound healing via increasing miR‐21‐5p‐mediated inhibition of RASA1
Authors: Xiao Wei‐Rong , Wu Meng , Bi Xiang‐Rong
Published: March 2021

Skin wound is a very common type of injury and the healing process greatly affects the life quality of individuals. Ozone has been shown beneficial to wound healing with unclear mechanisms. Here, we tested the effect of ozone oil (OZ) on wound healing and investigated the underlying mechanisms. Mouse skin wound model and Masson staining were used to evaluate the effect of OZ on wound healing. Primary fibroblast culture was employed to assess the functions of OZ, miR‐21‐5p, and RASA1. QRT‐PCR and western blot were used to determine expression levels of miR‐21‐5p, RASA1, α‐SMA, and collagen I. CCK‐8 assay and scratch wound healing assay were used to measure viability and migration of fibroblasts. Dual luciferase activity assay was performed to validate miR‐21‐5p/RASA1 interaction. OZ accelerated wound healing in mice and promoted proliferation and migration abilities of fibroblasts. miR‐21‐5p was increased while RASA1 was reduced during the wound healing and OZ treatment augmented those changes, as well as increased levels of α‐SMA and collagen I. Knockdown of miR‐21‐5p suppressed those effects of OZ on fibroblasts. Furthermore, miR‐21‐5p directly targeted RASA1 mRNA and negatively regulated its expression. Overexpression of RASA1 inhibited fibroblast proliferation and migration as well as diminished α‐SMA and collagen I protein expression. Additionally, RASA1 overexpression blocked the promotion of miR‐21‐5p overexpression on fibroblast viability and migration. In vivo, miR‐21‐5p facilitated wound healing while overexpression of RASA1 reversed the effect. OZ promoted wound healing by enhancing miR‐21‐5p‐mediated RASA1 inhibition to increase fibroblast proliferation and migration.
Referee statement on Technology as Human Social Tradition: 15 Trait-Based Datasets of Hunter-Gatherer Material Culture (Northwest Siberia, Pacific Northwest Coast, Northern California). Data Paper
Authors: Prentiss Anna
Published: March 2021

The data provide significant opportunities for new investigations. The data are structured in such a way that each of Jordan's studies can be replicated spanning Khanty, Coast Salish, and various Indigenous Californian technological traditions.
Solution of Two-Dimensional Stokes Flow With Elliptical Coordinates and Its Application to Permeability of Porous Media
Authors: Hellou Mustapha , Lominé Franck , Bourbatache Mohamed Khaled , Hajjam Mohamed
Published: March 2021

In this paper, analytical developments of the biharmonic equation representing two-dimensional Stokes flow are performed with elliptical coordinates. It is found that the streamfunction is expressed with series expansions based on Gegenbauer polynomials of first and second kinds with order one Cn1 and Dn1 for n natural integer number. Application to an elliptical fiber enclosed in an elliptical boundary with uniform flow is made. It is found that a particular solution responsible of the drag must be added to the general solution. Following this, the flow through rectangular arrays of elliptical fibers is studied, and the permeability of this medium is determined as a function of porosity.
A New Approach Utilizing Liquid Catalyst for Improving Heavy Oil Recovery
Authors: Alarbah Ali , Shirif Ezeddin , Jia Na , Bumraiwha Hamdi
Published: March 2021

Chemical-assisted enhanced oil recovery (EOR) has recently received a great deal of attention as a means of improving the efficiency of oil recovery processes. Producing heavy oil is technically difficult due to its high viscosity and high asphaltene content; therefore, novel recovery techniques are frequently tested and developed. This study contributes to general progress in this area by synthesizing an acidic Ni-Mo-based liquid catalyst (LC) and employing it to improve heavy oil recovery from sand-pack columns for the first time. To understand the mechanisms responsible for improved recovery, the effect of the LC on oil viscosity, density, interfacial tension (IFT), and saturates, aromatics, resin, and asphaltenes (SARA) were assessed. The results show that heavy oil treated with an acidic Ni-Mo-based LC has reduced viscosity and density and that the IFT of oil–water decreased by 7.69 mN/m, from 24.80 mN/m to 17.11 mN/m. These results are specific to the LC employed. The results also indicate that the presence of the LC partially upgrades the structure and group composition of the heavy oil, and sand-pack flooding results show that the LC increased the heavy oil recovery factor by 60.50% of the original oil in place (OOIP). Together, these findings demonstrate that acidic Ni-Mo-based LCs are an effective form of chemical-enhanced EOR and should be considered for wider testing and/or commercial use.
Implementation of a Neural Network into a User-Material Subroutine for Finite Element Simulation of Material Viscoplasticity
Authors: Benabou Lahouari
Published: March 2021

In this study, a neural network is trained to predict the response of a viscoplastic solder alloy based on a reduced data set. The model is shown to accurately describe the behavior of the material for the temperature range from 298 °K to 398 °K and the strain rate range from 2 × 10−5 s−1 to 2 × 10−2 s−1. The model is then implemented in the form of a user subroutine in the finite element code Abaqus to be used for simulations of the material behavior. The implementation requires that the weights and biases of the network are extracted and that its gradients (derivatives of the output with respect to the inputs) are calculated to be passed on to the user subroutine. Finite element (FE) simulations based on the implemented neural network are compared with those based on the physical viscoplastic model of Anand, showing an overall good agreement between both approaches. However, some limitations concerning the neural network ability to predict the transient effects during a strain rate jump or a temperature change are identified and discussed.
Observation of Grease Film Behavior in Sliding-Rolling Concentrated Contacts
Authors: Jin Xuyang , Li Xinming , Chen Qi , Yang Ping , Guo Feng , Jiang Nan
Published: March 2021

In sliding-rolling concentrated contacts, the grease film is subjected to shear action. In this study, grease film behaviors have been observed under different sliding-rolling ratios (SRRs) by measuring film thickness and friction coefficient simultaneously. The evolution patterns of the grease films with disc revolutions are affected by SRR, entrainment speed, and grease consistency. The severe starvation due to film decay at low shear and the film recovery at high shear has been recognized. The grease with low consistency is in a fully flooded state due to improvement in lubricant replenishment. In addition, the corresponding friction coefficient tends to increase or be constant in terms of contact states. The mechanisms of the grease behavior related to shear actions and grease properties are analyzed.