bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Pyroptosis-Related lncRNAs Signature for Predicting the Prognosis of Kidney Renal Clear Cell Carcinoma and Its Associations with Immunity
Authors: Tang Xinfang , Zhang Anna , Feng Yuanyuan , Su Ying , Wang Xiaoyu , Jiang Feng , Ma Jianxin
Published: October 2021

The most common kind of kidney cancer with poor prognosis is clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Pyroptosis is shown to be an inflammatory type of programmed cell death in recent years. In this research, we utilized pyroptosis-related differentially expressed lncRNAs in ccRCC to develop a predictive multi-lncRNA signature. We uncovered 14 lncRNAs with different expression patterns that were linked to ccRCC prognosis. Kaplan–Meier analysis identified a signature of high-risk lncRNAs related to poor prognosis for ccRCC. Furthermore, the AUC of the lncRNA signature was 0.771, indicating that they can be used to predict ccRCC prognosis. In predicting ccRCC prognosis, our risk analysis approach outperformed standard clinicopathological characteristics. In the low-risk group, GSEA indicated tumor-related pathways. T-cell functions such as T-cell coinhibition and T-cell costimulation were found to be expressed differently in two groups. Immune checkpoints including PD-1, LAG3, CTLA4, and BTLA were also differently expressed between the two groups. In patients with ccRCC, we created a 14-lncRNA-based predictor as a robust prognostic and predictive tool for OS.
A Combinatorial CRISPR–Cas9 Screen Identifies Ifenprodil as an Adjunct to Sorafenib for Liver Cancer Treatment
Authors: Xu Feng , Tong Man , Tong Cindy S.W. , Chan Becky K.C. , Chu Hoi Yee , Wong Tin Lok , Fong John H.C. , Cheung Maggie S.H. , Mak Kylie Hin-Man , Pardeshi Lakhansing , Huang Yuanhua , Wong Koon Ho , Choi Gigi C.G. , Ma Stephanie , Wong Alan S.L.
Published: October 2021

Systematic testing of existing drugs and their combinations is an attractive strategy to exploit approved drugs for repurposing and identifying the best actionable treatment options. To expedite the search among many possible drug combinations, we designed a combinatorial CRISPR–Cas9 screen to inhibit druggable targets. Coblockade of the N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) with targets of first-line kinase inhibitors reduced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cell growth. Clinically, HCC patients with low NMDAR1 expression showed better survival. The clinically approved NMDAR antagonist ifenprodil synergized with sorafenib to induce the unfolded protein response, trigger cell-cycle arrest, downregulate genes associated with WNT signaling and stemness, and reduce self-renewal ability of HCC cells. In multiple HCC patient-derived organoids and human tumor xenograft models, the drug combination, but neither single drug alone, markedly reduced tumor-initiating cancer cell frequency. Because ifenprodil has an established safety history for its use as a vasodilator in humans, our findings support the repurposing of this drug as an adjunct for HCC treatment to improve clinical outcome and reduce tumor recurrence. These results also validate an approach for readily discovering actionable combinations for cancer therapy.

Significance:

Combinatorial CRISPR–Cas9 screening identifies actionable targets for HCC therapy, uncovering the potential of combining the clinically approved drugs ifenprodil and sorafenib as a new effective treatment regimen.
Recreational Physical Activity, Sitting, and Androgen Metabolism among Postmenopausal Women in the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study
Authors: Oh Hannah , Saquib Nazmus , Ochs-Balcom Heather M. , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Richey Phyllis A. , Shadyab Aladdin H. , Wild Robert A. , Underland Lisa , Anderson Garnet L. , Xu Xia , Trabert Britton
Published: October 2021

Background:

Prolonged sitting and physical inactivity are associated with higher circulating levels of estrogens. It is unknown whether these risk factors are associated with circulating androgens/androgen metabolites, another set of hormones implicated in the etiology of cancers in postmenopausal women.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 1,782 postmenopausal women in the Women's Health Initiative Observational Study. Serum concentrations of 12 androgens/androgen metabolites were quantified using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Physical activity and sitting time were self-reported at baseline. We performed linear regression to estimate geometric means (GM) of androgen/androgen metabolite concentrations (pmol/L) according to physical activity and sitting time, adjusting for potential confounders and stratified by menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) use.

Results:

Physical activity (≥15 vs. 0 MET-h/wk) was inversely associated with estrogen-to-androgen ratios among never/former MHT users (adj-GM = 37.5 vs. 49.6 unconjugated estrone:androstenedione; 20.2 vs. 30.3 unconjugated estradiol:testosterone; all Ptrend ≤ 0.03) but was not associated among current MHT users. Prolonged sitting (≥10 vs. ≤5 h/d) was positively associated with these ratios among both never/former (adj-GM = 44.2 vs. 38.3, Ptrend = 0.10; adj-GM = 23.4 vs. 20.2, Ptrend = 0.17; respectively) and current MHT users (adj-GM = 197 vs. 147; 105 vs. 75.5; respectively; all Ptrend ≤0.02), but the associations were statistically significant among current MHT users only. The associations persisted after adjustment for BMI. After adjustment for adrenal androgens, physical activity and sitting were not associated with androgen metabolites.

Conclusions:

Physical activity and sitting were associated with serum estrogen-to-androgen ratios but not androgen metabolites.

Impact:

This study contributes to our understanding of the link between physical activity, sitting, and cancer risk in postmenopausal women.
A High-Content Screen for C/EBPα Expression Identifies Novel Therapeutic Agents in Dedifferentiated Liposarcoma
Authors: Angeles Christina V. , Velez Ana , Rios Jordan , Laxa Bernadette , Shum David , Ruiz Penelope D. , Shen Yawei , Ostrovnaya Irina , Gularte-Mérida Rodrigo , Nacev Benjamin A. , Dickson Mark A. , Djaballah Hakim , Okada Tomoyo , Singer Samuel
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

Dedifferentiated liposarcoma (DDLS), one of the most common and aggressive sarcomas, infrequently responds to chemotherapy. DDLS survival and growth depend on underexpression of C/EBPα, a tumor suppressor and transcriptional regulator controlling adipogenesis. We sought to screen and prioritize candidate drugs that increase C/EBPα expression and may therefore serve as differentiation-based therapies for DDLS.

Experimental Design:

We screened known bioactive compounds for the ability to restore C/EBPα expression and inhibit proliferation selectively in two DDLS cell lines but not in normal adipose-derived stem cells (ASC). Selected hits' activity was validated, and the mechanism of the most potent, SN-38, was investigated. The in vivo efficacy of irinotecan, the prodrug of SN-38, was evaluated in DDLS xenograft models.

Results:

Of 3,119 compounds, screen criteria were met by 19. Validation experiments confirmed the DDLS selectivity of deguelin, emetine, and SN-38 and showed that they induce apoptosis in DDLS cells. SN-38 had the lowest IC50 (approximately 10 nmol/L), and its pro-apoptotic effects were countered by knockdown of CEBPA but not of TP53. Irinotecan significantly inhibited tumor growth at well-tolerated doses, induced nuclear expression of C/EBPα, and inhibited HIF1α expression in DDLS patient-derived and cancer cell line xenograft models. In contrast, doxorubicin, the most common treatment for nonresectable DDLS, reduced tumor growth by 30% to 50% at a dose that caused weight loss.

Conclusions:

This high-content screen revealed potential treatments for DDLS. These include irinotecan, which induces apoptosis of DDLS cells in a C/EBPα-dependent, p53-independent manner, and should be clinically evaluated in patients with advanced DDLS.
Morphologic and Genomic Characteristics of Breast Cancers Occurring in Individuals with Lynch Syndrome
Authors: Schwartz Christopher J. , da Silva Edaise M. , Marra Antonio , Gazzo Andrea M. , Selenica Pier , Rai Vikas K. , Mandelker Diana , Pareja Fresia , Misyura Maksym , D'Alfonso Timothy M. , Brogi Edi , Drullinsky Pamela , Razavi Pedram , Robson Mark E. , Drago Joshua Z. , Wen Hannah Y. , Zhang Liying , Weigelt Britta , Shia Jinru , Reis-Filho Jorge S. , Zhang Hong
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

Lynch syndrome is defined by germline pathogenic mutations involving DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes and linked with the development of MMR-deficient colon and endometrial cancers. Whether breast cancers developing in the context of Lynch syndrome are causally related to MMR deficiency (MMRd), remains controversial. Thus, we explored the morphologic and genomic characteristics of breast cancers occurring in Lynch syndrome individuals.

Experimental Design:

A retrospective analysis of 20,110 patients with cancer who underwent multigene panel genetic testing was performed to identify individuals with a likely pathogenic/pathogenic germline variant in MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, or PMS2 who developed breast cancers. The histologic characteristics and IHC assessment of breast cancers for MMR proteins and programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression were assessed on cases with available materials. DNA samples from paired tumors and blood were sequenced with Memorial Sloan Kettering–Integrated Mutation Profiling of Actionable Cancer Targets (≥468 key cancer genes). Microsatellite instability (MSI) status was assessed utilizing MSISensor. Mutational signatures were defined using SigMA.

Results:

A total of 272 individuals with Lynch syndrome were identified, 13 (5%) of whom had primary breast cancers. The majority of breast cancers (92%) were hormone receptor–positive tumors. Five (42%) of 12 breast cancers displayed loss of MMR proteins by IHC. Four (36%) of 11 breast cancers subjected to tumor-normal sequencing showed dominant MSI mutational signatures, high tumor mutational burden, and indeterminate (27%) or high MSISensor scores (9%). One patient with metastatic MMRd breast cancer received anti-PD1 therapy and achieved a robust and durable response.

Conclusions:

A subset of breast cancers developing in individuals with Lynch syndrome are etiologically linked to MMRd and may benefit from anti-PD1/PD-L1 immunotherapy.
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy in Luminal B-like Breast Cancer: Results of the Phase II GIADA Trial
Authors: Dieci Maria Vittoria , Guarneri Valentina , Tosi Anna , Bisagni Giancarlo , Musolino Antonino , Spazzapan Simon , Moretti Gabriella , Vernaci Grazia Maria , Griguolo Gaia , Giarratano Tommaso , Urso Loredana , Schiavi Francesca , Pinato Claudia , Magni Giovanna , Lo Mele Marcello , De Salvo Gian Luca , Rosato Antonio , Conte Pierfranco
Published: October 2021

Purpose:

The role of immunotherapy in hormone receptor (HR)-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer is underexplored.

Patients and Methods:

The neoadjuvant phase II GIADA trial (NCT04659551, EUDRACT 2016-004665-10) enrolled stage II–IIIA premenopausal patients with Luminal B (LumB)-like breast cancer (HR-positive/HER2-negative, Ki67 ≥ 20%, and/or histologic grade 3). Patients received: three 21-day cycles of epirubicin/cyclophosphamide followed by eight 14-day cycles of nivolumab, triptorelin started concomitantly to chemotherapy, and exemestane started concomitantly to nivolumab. Primary endpoint was pathologic complete response (pCR; ypT0/is, ypN0).

Results:

A pCR was achieved by 7/43 patients [16.3%; 95% confidence interval (CI), 7.4–34.9]; the rate of residual cancer burden class 0–I was 25.6%. pCR rate was significantly higher for patients with PAM50 Basal breast cancer (4/8, 50%) as compared with other subtypes (LumA 9.1%; LumB 8.3%; P = 0.017). Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL), immune-related gene-expression signatures, and specific immune cell subpopulations by multiplex immunofluorescence were significantly associated with pCR. A combined score of Basal subtype and TILs had an AUC of 0.95 (95% CI, 0.89–1.00) for pCR prediction. According to multiplex immunofluorescence, a switch to a more immune-activated tumor microenvironment occurred following exposure to anthracyclines. Most common grade ≥3 treatment-related adverse events (AE) during nivolumab were γ-glutamyltransferase (16.7%), alanine aminotransferase (16.7%), and aspartate aminotransferase (9.5%) increase. Most common immune-related AEs were endocrinopathies (all grades 1–2; including adrenal insufficiency, n = 1).

Conclusions:

Luminal B-like breast cancers with a Basal molecular subtype and/or a state of immune activation may respond to sequential anthracyclines and anti–PD-1. Our data generate hypotheses that, if validated, could guide immunotherapy development in this context.
The Road to Personalized Myeloma Medicine: Patient-specific Single-domain Antibodies for Anti-idiotypic Radionuclide Therapy
Authors: Puttemans Janik , Stijlemans Benoit , Keyaerts Marleen , Vander Meeren Sam , Renmans Wim , Fostier Karel , Debie Pieterjan , Hanssens Heleen , Rodak Magdalena , Pruszynski Marek , De Veirman Kim , Vanderkerken Karin , Lahoutte Tony , Morgenstern Alfred , Bruchertseifer Frank , Devoogdt Nick , D'Huyvetter Matthias
Published: October 2021

To this day, multiple myeloma remains an incurable cancer. For many patients, recurrence is unavoidably a result of lacking treatment options in the minimal residual disease stage. This is due to residual and treatment-resistant myeloma cells that can cause disease relapse. However, patient-specific membrane-expressed paraproteins could hold the key to target these residual cells responsible for disease recurrence. Here, we describe the therapeutic potential of radiolabeled, anti-idiotypic camelid single-domain antibody fragments (sdAbs) as tumor-restrictive vehicles against a membrane-bound paraprotein in the syngeneic mouse 5T33 myeloma model and analogously assess the feasibility of sdAb-based personalized medicine for patients with multiple myeloma. Llamas were immunized using extracts containing paraprotein from either murine or human sera, and selective sdAbs were retrieved using competitive phage display selections of immune libraries. An anti-5T33 idiotype sdAb was selected for targeted radionuclide therapy with the β−-particle emitter 177Lu and the α-particle emitter 225Ac. sdAb-based radionuclide therapy in syngeneic mice with a low 5T33 myeloma lesion load significantly delayed tumor progression. In five of seven patients with newly diagnosed myeloma, membrane expression of the paraprotein was confirmed. Starting from serum-isolated paraprotein, for two of three selected patients anti-idiotype sdAbs were successfully generated.
A FZD7-specific Antibody–Drug Conjugate Induces Ovarian Tumor Regression in Preclinical Models
Authors: Do Myan , Wu Christina C.N. , Sonavane Pooja R. , Juarez Edwin F. , Adams Stephen R. , Ross Jason , Rodriguez y Baena Alessandra , Patel Charmi , Mesirov Jill P. , Carson Dennis A. , Advani Sunil J. , Willert Karl
Published: October 2021

Although WNT signaling is frequently dysregulated in solid tumors, drugging this pathway has been challenging due to off-tumor effects. Current clinical pan-WNT inhibitors are nonspecific and lead to adverse effects, highlighting the urgent need for more specific WNT pathway–targeting strategies. We identified elevated expression of the WNT receptor Frizzled class receptor 7 (FZD7) in multiple solid cancers in The Cancer Genome Atlas, particularly in the mesenchymal and proliferative subtypes of ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma, which correlate with poorer median patient survival. Moreover, we observed increased FZD7 protein expression in ovarian tumors compared with normal ovarian tissue, indicating that FZD7 may be a tumor-specific antigen. We therefore developed a novel antibody–drug conjugate, septuximab vedotin (F7-ADC), which is composed of a chimeric human–mouse antibody to human FZD7 conjugated to the microtubule-inhibiting drug monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE). F7-ADC selectively binds human FZD7, potently kills ovarian cancer cells in vitro, and induces regression of ovarian tumor xenografts in murine models. To evaluate F7-ADC toxicity in vivo, we generated mice harboring a modified Fzd7 gene where the resulting Fzd7 protein is reactive with the human-targeting F7-ADC. F7-ADC treatment of these mice did not induce acute toxicities, indicating a potentially favorable safety profile in patients. Overall, our data suggest that the antibody–drug conjugate approach may be a powerful strategy to combat FZD7-expressing ovarian cancers in the clinic.
Água e solo na agricultura sustentável
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos, Gomes Tamara Maria , Rossi Fabrício ,   Universidade de São Paulo. Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos
Published: October 2021

O e-book “Água e Solo na Agricultura Sustentável” é resultado do projeto de mesmo título contemplado pelo Edital 01/2021 da Pró-Reitoria de Cultura e Extensão Universitária (PRCEU) da Universidade de São Paulo para “Fomento às iniciativas de Cultura e Extensão aos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável ODS-ONU”. O projeto teve como objetivo abordar de forma direta, como capacitação, o ODS de número 2, para a irradicação da fome e a agricultura sustentável, no que diz respeito aos cultivos agrícolas na promoção de práticas conservacionistas dos recursos naturais, com foco principal na qualidade da água e do solo, que aumentem a produtividade e a produção e, fortaleçam a capacidade de adaptação às mudanças climáticas. Dessa forma, o conteúdo deste e-book trata por uma linguagem prática e acessível ao público leigo os temas: sistemas de irrigação eficientes; técnicas de manejo de irrigação; reuso da água; gestão de resíduos rurais; o solo na fertilidade do sistema produtivo; técnicas para o aumento da fertilidade do sistema e; adubação verde e microbioma do solo.
Relative Prognostic Significance of Positron Emission Tomography Myocardial Perfusion Imaging Markers in Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Thomas Merrill , Sperry Brett W. , Peri-Okonny Poghni , Malik Ali O. , McGhie A. Iain , Saeed Ibrahim M. , Chan Paul S. , Spertus John A. , Thompson Randall C. , Bateman Timothy M. , Patel Krishna K.
Published: October 2021

Background:

Rubidium-82 positron emission tomography myocardial perfusion imaging provides measurements of perfusion, myocardial blood flow and reserve (MBFR), and changes in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) at rest and peak stress. Although all of these variables are known to provide prognostic information, they have not been well studied in patients with heart failure due to reduced LVEF.

Methods:

Between 2010 and 2016, 1255 consecutive unique patients with LVEF≤40% were included in this study who underwent rubidium-82 positron emission tomography myocardial perfusion imaging and did not have subsequent revascularization within 90 days. Perfusion assessment was scored semiquantitatively, and LVEF reserve (stress-rest LVEF) and global MBFR (stress/rest MBF) were quantified using automated software. Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for 14 clinical and 7 test characteristics were used to define the independent prognostic significance of MBFR on all-cause mortality.

Results:

Of 1255 patients followed for a mean of 3.2 years, 454 (36.2%) died. After adjusting for clinical variables, the magnitude of fixed and reversible perfusion defects was prognostic of death (
P
=0.02 and 0.01, respectively), while the rest LVEF was not (
P
=0.18). The addition of LVEF reserve did not add any incremental value, while the addition of MBFR revealed incremental prognostic value (hazard ratio per 0.1 unit decrease in MBFR=1.08 [95% CI, 1.05–1.11],
P
<0.001) with fixed and reversible defects becoming nonsignificant (
P
=0.07 and 0.29, respectively). There was no interaction between MBFR and cause of cardiomyopathy (ischemic versus nonischemic).

Conclusions:

In patients with a known cardiomyopathy who did not require early revascularization, reduced MBFR as obtained by positron emission tomography myocardial perfusion imaging is associated with all-cause mortality while other positron emission tomography myocardial perfusion imaging measures were not.
Perception of Portuguese Mid Vowels by Heritage Speakers of Brazilian Portuguese
Authors: Osborne Denise Maria
Published: October 2021

The main goal of this study is to investigate the perception of Portuguese mid-vowel contrasts (/ɛ/-/e/ and /ɔ/-/o/) by heritage speakers (HS s) of Brazilian Portuguese (BP) who grew up in the United States. This study shows, for instance, an asymmetry in categorization as a function of degree of language dominance for mid-back vowel contrast, but not for mid-front vowel contrast.
Checklist of marine and estuarine fishes from the Alaska–Yukon Border, Beaufort Sea, to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico
Authors: LOVE MILTON S. , BIZZARRO JOSEPH J. , CORNTHWAITE A. MARIA , FRABLE BENJAMIN W. , MASLENIKOV KATHERINE P.
Published: October 2021

This paper is a checklist of the fishes that have been documented, through both published and unpublished sources, in marine and estuarine waters, and out 200 miles, from the United States-Canadian border on the Beaufort Sea to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. A minimum of 241 families and 1,644 species are known within this range, including both native and nonnative species. For each of these species, we include maximum size, geographic and depth ranges, whether it is native or nonnative, as well as a brief mention of any taxonomic issues.
Taxonomic revision of the Neotropical ant genus Hylomyrma Forel, 1912 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Myrmicinae), with the description of fourteen new species
Authors: ULYSSÉA MÔNICA ANTUNES , BRANDÃO C.R.F.
Published: October 2021

This paper provides a taxonomic revision of the Neotropical ant genus Hylomyrma Forel (1912) (Myrmicinae: Pogonomyrmecini). Morphological traits combined with geographical data and natural history information led to the recognition of 30 species, fourteen of them described here as new: Hylomyrma adelae sp. n., Hylomyrma dandarae sp. n., Hylomyrma jeronimae sp. n., Hylomyrma lispectorae sp. n., Hylomyrma lopesi sp. n., Hylomyrma macielae sp. n., Hylomyrma margaridae sp. n., Hylomyrma mariae sp. n., Hylomyrma marielleae sp. n., Hylomyrma mitiae sp. n., Hylomyrma peetersi sp. n., Hylomyrma primavesi sp. n., Hylomyrma virginiae sp. n. and Hylomyrma wachiperi sp. n. Lectotypes for H. speciosa (junior synonym of H. balzani) and H. reitteri are here designated from syntypes to improve nomenclatural stability. Except for the three species most recently described (H. montana, H. plumosa, and H. villemantae), the external morphology of workers is described or redescribed, as well as for the known males and queens, most described here for the first time. Of the 30 recognized species herein, 11 present intercastes; at least three of them present female specimens with queen-like traits that may be understood as ergatoids. An updated identification key for Hylomyrma workers is provided, as well as high resolution photographs of all known sexes and castes, species distribution maps, and a summary of what is known from the biology of all species.
Inoculating an Infodemic: An Ecological Approach to Understanding Engagement With COVID-19 Online Information
Authors: Houlden Shandell , Hodson Jaigris , Veletsianos George , Thompson Christiani P. , Reid Darren
Published: October 2021

As the global COVID-19 pandemic has been concurrently labelled an “infodemic,” researchers have sought to improve how the general public engages with information that is relevant, timely, and accurate. In this study, we provide an overview of the reasons why people engage and disengage with COVID-19 information. We use context-rich semi-structured interviews which invited participants to discuss online COVID-19-related content they encountered. This qualitative approach allows us to uncover subtle but important details of influences that drive online engagement. Participants both engaged and disengaged with content for individual and social reasons, with seven themes emerging connected to their engagement including actions in response to information, reasoning for engagement, content, motivating concerns, frequency of engagement with information, site of exposure, and given reason for not engaging. Many of these themes intersected and informed each other. Our findings suggest that researchers and public health communicators should approach engagement as an ecology of intersecting influences, both human and algorithmic, which change over time. This information could be potentially helpful to public health communicators who are trying to engage the public with the best information to keep them safe during the pandemic.
Commanding the Class in a Foreign Tongue: The Influence of Language Proficiency and Intercultural Competence on Classroom Leadership
Authors: Wang Changmi
Published: October 2021

This article examines the influence of English language proficiency and intercultural competence on the English-medium instruction lecturer’s classroom leadership. It analyzes self-reported data obtained by three measuring scales from 188 English-medium instruction lecturers of a Chinese university. The Pearson correlational analysis indicated that there were significant positive relationships between the English-medium instruction lecturer’s classroom leadership and the two predicting factors. The multiple regression analysis suggested that both intercultural competence and English proficiency contribute much to the variance of the English-medium instruction lecturer’s classroom leadership. It was found that the lecturer’s language proficiency and intercultural communicative abilities could be two determining factors for the lecturer to deliver their disciplinary knowledge and command the class in an engaging and competent manner. The findings may provide implications for the strategic intervention of English-medium instruction educators in institutions of higher education.
Meeting the Challenge of Transmission Delay: Communication Protocols for Space Operations
Authors: Mosier Kathleen L. , Fischer Ute M.
Published: October 2021

Objective

Several studies were conducted to assess media-specific communication protocols as a countermeasure to challenges of asynchronous space–ground communication.

Background

Previous research demonstrated that transmission delay can negatively impact space–ground communication, collaboration, and task performance. We created media-specific protocols designed to mitigate identified problems associated with asynchronous communication and examined their effects on team communication and task performance.

Methods

The lab study included 24 teams of three who collaborated remotely via voice or text on computer-based tasks simulating failures in a spacecraft’s life support system. Training and availability of communication protocols was the between-groups variable. Perceived usability, criticality, and effectiveness of the communication protocols were also assessed in space–analog simulations.

Results

Lab study data revealed that communication protocols facilitated some aspects of team communication; specifically, they reduced threats to common ground and information splitting but not instances of miscommunication. Analog data indicated that protocol compliance was high, participants evaluated most elements as highly important, and protocols maintained perceived communication effectiveness between space crews and mission control during time delay comparably to no-time-delay conditions.

Conclusion

Converging data attest to the feasibility, usability, and effectiveness of empirically derived communication protocols as a countermeasure to the negative impacts of transmission delay and also point to technological solutions.

Application

The communication protocols have been adopted for training in NASA analog simulations involving time-delayed communication. They could also support communication among remote team members in medical operations, command-and-control teams, or disaster response under asynchronous conditions or when time is limited and precise communication is critical.
The experience of violence of Syrian women living in Konya: An intersectional study through the narratives of service providers
Authors: Afyonoğlu Meliha F
Published: October 2021

This study aims to analyze Syrian women’s experience of violence from the perspective of the service providers by using intersectionality as an analytical lens. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 13 service providers working in areas highly populated by Syrians in Konya, Turkey. Harmful traditional practices, societal violence reflected in gender-based discrimination, discrimination in work life, and inability to access to complaint mechanisms are the basic findings of the study. Revealing how the intersections and interrelatedness of class, ethnicity, culture, and migration status shape the experiences of Syrian women is expected to contribute to the implementation of anti-oppressive practices of social workers.
The Role of Major Depressive Disorder and its Moderating Effect on the Impact of Exposure to Violence for Predicting Recidivism among Juvenile Offenders: A Survival Analysis Approach
Authors: Wojciechowski Thomas
Published: October 2021

Past research has indicated that Major Depressive Disorder and exposure to violence are risk factors for offending. However, researchers have yet to examine how this disorder may predict recidivism risk among juvenile offenders and how the disorder moderates the effect of exposure to violence. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to determine the impact of Major Depressive Disorder on time to recidivism. Cox proportional hazard modeling was applied to examine Major Depressive Disorder as a moderator of exposure to violence. Results indicated that participants with Major Depressive Disorder demonstrate greater risk for recidivism post-adjudication. The proposed moderation effect was not supported.
Strengthening Teacher–Student Rapport Through the Practice of Guided Dialogue Journaling
Authors: Chan Pak Hei , Aubrey Scott
Published: October 2021

Dialogue journals are written conversations in which two partners communicate regularly. When practiced between a teacher and student, dialogue journaling has the potential to engage students in writing, and can lead to improved teacher–student rapport. In this Innovations in Practice article, we evaluate the use of structured dialogue journals between a student teacher and his English as a Second Language (ESL) students during a seven-week teaching practicum at a local secondary school in Hong Kong. The aim of this practice was for the teacher to engage with students on a personal level, thereby enhancing teacher–student rapport – an otherwise challenging goal during short-term school placements. The dialogue journals were designed to elicit students’ learning experiences, other out-of-class life experiences, and personal interests, which, when reciprocated with teachers’ comments, created a dialogic context for improving open and honest teacher–student communication in English. In this practice, a total of 11 rounds of dialogue journals were administered and completed throughout the teaching practicum period. An evaluation of the practice was based on an analysis of the dialogue journal entries, semi-structured interviews with students, and the student teacher's own reflection. Implications of this practice are discussed in terms of the possibilities for ESL/English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers to use dialogue journals for enhancing teacher–student rapport.
Teaching an in-House Public Speaking Course
Authors: Daley Paul W. , Estrin Herman A.
Published: October 2021

To teach an in-house public speaking course, the instructor defined the purposes of the course to: 1) make available the training in the skills needed to make an effective presentation, 2) select the effective visual aids to be used in the presentation, 3) learn effective techniques of body language, 4) organize facts and ideas for the presentation, 5) construct the presentation for maximum impact, 6) analyze an audience, 7) establish rapport with the audience and keep its attention, and 8) improve speech, gestures, delivery, and timing. In addition, the instructor must consider the following aspects of the course: the schedule, the size of the class, the number of sessions, the texts, the methods of instruction, and the evaluation of the course. Included are the course of study and the assignments.
Recommended Reading
Authors: Halloran S. Michael
Published: October 2021

How do you communicate clearly to a reader without boring him? How do you prod his imagination without confusing him? The answer, I suppose, is to be a highly skilled writer and work very hard at your craft. But while there may be no simple and absolute rules for effective communication, there is an art called rhetoric that can help. I offer the following brief passage from Aristotle's words about rhetoric in the hope that some who are unfamiliar with that ancient art may be moved to read further. A good starting point would be Readings in Classical Rhetoric, edited by Thomas W. Benson and Michael H. Prosser (Bloomington: Indiana University Press, 1969).

As you read, bear in mind that this is a translation from a Greek text thought by scholars to be lecture notes – perhaps those of Aristotle himself, perhaps those of one of his students. Consider whether notes from any lectures you have given or attended are likely to look this insightful and clear 2300 years hence. Then notice Aristotle's very subtle understanding of how verbal style can shape an audience's awareness of what is being communicated.
Associations of Agency and Communion With Domain-Specific Self-Perceptions of Aging: A Cross-Sectional Study In Old-Old Adults in Poor Health
Authors: Blawert Anne , Schäfer Sarah K. , Wurm Susanne
Published: October 2021

A large body of research indicates that self-perceptions of aging (SPA) play an important role for health in later life. Hence, more research on SPA and correlates is needed, especially in old age and poor health, where negative SPA tend to prevail. Recent studies identified personality as an important correlate of SPA in young-old and relatively healthy samples. Thus, we investigated cross-sectional associations of agency and communion with two SPA domains in a sample of old-old adults in poor health ( n  =  154; Mage  =  81.55, SD  =  4.56, 58.4% women). In multiple regression analyses, agency and communion were associated with SPA related to ongoing development beyond health. In contrast, only health as a covariate was significantly associated with SPA related to physical losses. Thus, personality may be a resource associated with gain-related SPA, at least for those in poor health and old age.
Compound robust tracking control of disturbed quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicles: A data-driven cascade control approach
Authors: Weng Yongpeng , Nan Dong , Wang Ning , Liu Zhuofu , Guan Zhe
Published: October 2021

In this paper, the robust trajectory tracking control problem of disturbed quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with disturbances, uncertainties and unmodeled dynamics is addressed, by devising a novel compound robust tracking control (CRTC) approach via data-driven cascade control technique. By deploying the data-driven philosophy, a data-based sliding-mode surface is proposed, and thereby contributing to strong adaptability to nonlinearity and model-unknown properties of the UAVs. By utilizing the backstepping technique, virtual control strategy and a novel cascaded compound robust PD control structure, the attitude and position subsystems are efficiently cohered such that a data-driven cascaded compound robust controller containing both PD control and sliding-mode control can be developed to conquer the lumped disturbances induced by uncertainties, disturbances and unmodeled dynamics. Eventually, the asymptotic convergence of the tracking errors with respect to both attitude and position subsystems can be guaranteed rigorously. Simulation studies on a prototype quadrotor UAV are performed to evaluate the efficacy and superiority of the devised CRTC method.
Working More, Less or the Same During COVID-19? A Mixed Method, Intersectional Analysis of Remote Workers
Authors: Fan Wen , Moen Phyllis
Published: October 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has transformed where paid work is done. Workers able to do so have been required to work remotely. We draw on survey data collected in October 2020 from a nationally representative sample of 3,017 remote workers, as well as qualitative survey data collected from 231 remote workers, to examine perceived changes in work hours from before to during the pandemic. Results indicate women are at greater risk of change (either a major decrease or a major increase)—rather than stability—in work hours. Gender also intersects with caregiving, race/ethnicity, prior remote work experiences, and socioeconomic status to shape changes in hours. Women and men in the sandwich generation, as well as women (but not men) with pre-school children, are the most likely to report a decrease in work hours, whereas women with older children at home or caring for adults (but not both) are the most likely to have an increase in hours. Remote working Black women and women moving into remote work are more likely to experience a major increase in hours worked, even as Hispanic women and Black men are the most likely to report somewhat of a reduction in work hours. Gender also intersects with SES, such that women without a college degree are more likely to have a decrease in work hours, while women with an advanced degree and women managers report a considerable increase in work hours. Qualitative data further illuminate why work hours change or remain stable for remote workers during COVID-19.
Well-Being of Public Servants Under Pressure: The Roles of Job Demands and Personality Traits in the Health-Impairment Process
Authors: Borst Rick T. , Knies Eva
Published: October 2021

The health-impairment process from job demands to lower well-being among public servants is still understudied. This article therefore uses the Job Demands-Resources model and answers the following question: What is the relationship between sector-specific job demands and public servants’ work-related well-being, and which of the Big Five personality traits ensure that either the hindering effect of these demands is lowered or the challenging effect enlarged? Four public sector specific demands are studied including organizational restructurings, technological innovations, aggression from citizens, and integrity pressure. The analysis of two representative subsamples of the Dutch public sector show that all job demands negatively relate to well-being. Organizational restructurings is the strongest hindering job demand, while technological innovations is the least hindering demand. Moreover, some personality traits turned out to be demands instead of resources, opening new doors for future research in the health-impairment process of public servants.
Biofabrication of controllable alginate hydrogel cell scaffolds based on bipolar electrochemistry
Authors: Xie Fei , Li Changyue , Hua Xiaoqing , Ma Li
Published: October 2021

Bipolar electrochemistry successfully realized the electrodeposition of calcium alginate hydrogels in specific target areas in tissue engineering. However, the shape and quantity of three-dimensional cannot be accurately controlled. We presented a novel growth model for fabricating hydrogels based on bipolar electrochemical by patterned bipolar electrodes using photolithography. This work highlights pattern customization and quantitative control of hydrogels in cell culture platforms. Furthermore, alginate hydrogels with different heights can be controlled by adjusting the key parameters of the growth model. This strategy exhibits promising potential for cell-oriented scaffolds in tissue engineering.
Predicting Decisional Determinants of Physical Activity Among Older Adults: An Integrated Behavior Approach
Authors: Preissner Christian E. , Charles Kathleen , Knäuper Bärbel , Kaushal Navin
Published: October 2021

Objectives

The present study applied the Integrated Behavior Change Model to investigate how behavioral decisions are predicted, namely, intention, planning, and habits, with respect to physical activity. Methods: Participants were older adults (ages 65+) residing in the U.S. ( N = 667) who completed online measures of behavioral determinants (autonomous motivation, perceived behavioral control, subjective norms, attitudes, intention, habit, and consistency), in addition to past behavior. Results: A structural equation model revealed that intention was predicted by past behavior and social-cognitive determinants. Social cognitive determinants mediated between past behavior and habit, as well as between autonomous motivation and habit. Intention mediated between past behavior and planning. Discussion: This study highlights the importance of multiple processes (social cognitive, habit/automatic, and post-intentional/planning) that formulate physical activity intentions. Mediation pathways revealed the importance of autonomous motivation for establishing intentions and habit. Facilitating these processes among older adults could be effective for promoting physical activity.
Synergistic effects of sinapic acid and ellagic acid ameliorate streptozotocin-induced diabetic nephropathy by inhibiting apoptosis, DNA damage, and structural deterioration in rats
Authors: Altındağ F , Özdek U
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Diabetic nephropathy (DN), a global problem that threatens human health, is an important reason for chronic kidney disease and kidney failure. In our study, it was aimed to investigate the individual and combined effects of SA and EA in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced rats.

Methods

The groups are as follows: Control, untreated diabetic, diabetic treated with Sinapic acid (SA), diabetic treated with Ellagic acid (EA), diabetic treated with SA and EA, treated with SA, treated with EA, and treated with SA and EA. Total kidney volume, total glomerulus volume, total filtration space volume, caspase-3, and 8-OHdG immunoreactivity, Malondialdehyde (MDA), Glutathione (GSH), Catalase (CAT), serum urea, and creatinine levels were evaluated by stereological, immunohistochemical, and biochemical methods.

Results

The findings of the study showed that total kidney volume, total glomerulus volume, total filtration gap volume, caspase-3, and 8-OHdG immunoreactivity, MDA, serum urea, and creatinine levels significantly increased in the untreated diabetic group compared to the control group. Also, severe mesangial and glomerular enlargement, extracellular matrix accumulation, and glomerular and tubular basal membrane thickness were observed in the tubulointerstitial and glomerular of the diabetic rats. However, individual and combined treatments of SA and EA ameliorated these histological changes. Additionally, decreased GSH and CAT in the untreated diabetic group increased by SA and EA treatment.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that treatment of SA and EA prevent apoptosis and DNA damage and structural changes in STZ-induced DN. However, the combined treatment of SA and EA were more effective than their individual treatments in all parameters except serum urea and creatinine.
Cyclophosphamide inhibits Pax5 methylation to regulate the growth of retinoblastoma via the Notch1 pathway
Authors: Jin Lan , Ma Xiaojie , Lei Xiaoqin , Tong Jing’an , Wang Runsheng
Published: October 2021

Retinoblastoma (Rb) is the most common intraocular malignant tumor in infants. Here, we investigated the function and mechanism of cyclophosphamide (CTX) in the development of Rb. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) results showed that paired box protein 5 (Pax5) expression was down-regulated in Rb tissues and cell lines. Methylation-specific PCR (MSP) results showed that the methylation level of Pax5 was up-regulated in Rb. After treatment with CTX, the Pax5 expression in Rb cell lines was increased significantly. The methylation of Pax5 and the expression of DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) were down-regulated in the CTX group. Cyclophosphamide inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, promoted cell apoptosis via the Notch1 pathway. DNA methyltransferase inhibitor SGI-1027 had synergistic effects with CTX. Paired box protein 5 siRNA was transfected into Y79 cells treated with CTX. The expression of DNMTs, Pax5, the Notch1 pathway and apoptosis marker protein was detected by Western blotting, and changes in cell behavior were detected, respectively. Results showed that knockdown of Pax5 reversed the effects of CTX. Moreover, the Notch1 activator Valproic acid (VPA) abolished the inhibitory effects of CTX on Rb development. Moreover, CTX inhibited tumor growth in nude mice. These findings demonstrated that CTX up-regulated Pax5 expression by down-regulating DNMTs expression, and then inhibited the Notch1 signaling pathway activation and Rb growth.
FTY720 Improves the Survival of Autologous Fat Grafting by Modulating Macrophages Toward M2 Polarization Via STAT3 Pathway
Authors: Yi Yi , Hu Weijie , Lv Wenchang , Zhao Chongru , Xiong Mingchen , Wu Min , Zhang Qi , Wu Yiping
Published: October 2021

Autologous fat grafting (AFG) is widely regarded as an important method for breast reconstruction after mastectomy among breast cancer (BC) patients. FTY720 has been proved to affect macrophage polarization and improve the sensitivity of postoperative BC treatment. This study aimed to explore FTY720 function and underlying mechanism in fat transplantation. The C57BL/6 J mice that received AFG were randomly divided into two groups treated with saline and FTY720, respectively. The fat graft samples were obtained at week 1, 2, 4, and 12 post-transplantation. Graft volumes, graft structures, M2 macrophages, and STAT3 protein expression were estimated by histological examination, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry, and western blot, respectively. In vitro, mouse preadipocytes were stimulated with FTY720 treated-M2 macrophages conditioned medium (FTY720-M2-CM) to evaluate the adipogenesis effect. The level of adipogenic mRNA expression in preadipocytes was detected by RT-PCR. The in vivo results showed that FTY720 treatment significantly enhanced the fat graft retention, structure integrity, and neovascularization, indicating the potential of FTY720 in improving graft survival. The histology results showed more polarized M2 macrophage presented in the FTY720 group. In the in vitro assay, after FTY720-M2-CM treatment, the 3T3-L1 preadipocytes showed the increased triglyceride content and adipogenic mRNA expression, including FABP4, C/EBP-α, Adipoq, and PPARγ. Furthermore, FTY720 treatment up-regulated the expression level of M2 biomarker CD206, Arg-1, Fizz-1, which could be weakened by the STAT3 inhibitor. Together, this study confirmed the potential efficacy of FTY720 in improving graft survival in the AFG model, possibly mediated by polarizing macrophages to M2 type through activating the STAT3 pathway.