bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Machine Learning for Robust Target Prediction in a Basic Oxygen Furnace System
Authors: Bae Juhee , Li Yurong , Ståhl Niclas , Mathiason Gunnar , Kojola Niklas
Published: May 2020

The steel-making process in a Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) must meet a combination of target values such as the final melt temperature and upper limits of the carbon and phosphorus content of the final melt with minimum material loss. An optimal blow end time (cut-off point), where these targets are met, often relies on the experience and skill of the operators who control the process, using both collected sensor readings and an implicit understanding of how the process develops. If the precision of hitting the optimal cut-off point can be improved, this immediately increases productivity as well as material and energy efficiency, thus decreasing environmental impact and cost. We examine the usage of standard machine learning models to predict the end-point targets using a full production dataset. Various causes of prediction uncertainty are explored and isolated using a combination of raw data and engineered features. In this study, we reach robust temperature, carbon, and phosphorus prediction hit rates of 88, 92, and 89 pct, respectively, using a large production dataset.
An In Vitro Partial Lesion Model of Differentiated Human Mesencephalic Neurons: Effect of Pericyte Secretome on Phenotypic Markers
Authors: Gaceb Abderahim , Barbariga Marco , Paul Gesine
Published: May 2020

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterised by the progressive degeneration of dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta. Post-mortem data suggests that the loss of DA markers may long precede the cell death, leaving a window to rescue the DA phenotype. Screening for potential neuroprotective or restorative therapies, however, requires that partial lesions of DA neurons can be modelled in vitro. In order to establish a partial lesion model of DA neurons in vitro, we evaluated the effects of different exposure times to 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+) and 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) on the cell survival and DA marker expression using DA neurons derived from the Lund human mesencephalic (LUHMES) cell line. We show that 24-h incubation with 50 μM of MPP+ or 6-h incubation with 100 μM of 6-OHDA leads to a significant decrease in the protein expression of DA markers without affecting overall cell death, consistent with a mild DA lesion. Using conditioned medium of human brain–derived pericytes stimulated with platelet-derived growth factor BB (PDGF-BB), we demonstrate a significant upregulation of DA markers. In conclusion, we provide an experimental model of an in vitro DA neuron partial lesion suitable to study different molecules and their potential neuroprotective or neurorestorative effects on the DA phenotype. We provide evidence that the secretome of brain pericytes stimulated via PDGF-BB/PDGFRβ affects DA marker expression and may represent one possible mechanism contributing to the neurorestoration previously observed in PD by this growth factor.
Genoprotective activities of plant natural substances in cancer and chemopreventive strategies in the context of 3P medicine
Authors: Koklesova Lenka , Liskova Alena , Samec Marek , Qaradakhi Tawar , Zulli Anthony , Smejkal Karel , Kajo Karol , Jakubikova Jana , Behzadi Payam , Pec Martin , Zubor Pavol , Biringer Kamil , Kwon Taeg Kyu , Büsselberg Dietrich , Sarria Gustavo R. , Giordano Frank A. , Golubnitschaja Olga , Kubatka Peter
Published: May 2020

Severe durable changes may occur to the DNA structure caused by exogenous and endogenous risk factors initiating the process of carcinogenesis. By evidence, a large portion of malignancies have been demonstrated as being preventable. Moreover, the targeted prevention of cancer onset is possible, due to unique properties of plant bioactive compounds. Although genoprotective effects of phytochemicals have been well documented, there is an evident lack of articles which would systematically present the spectrum of anticancer effects by phytochemicals, plant extracts, and plant-derived diet applicable to stratified patient groups at the level of targeted primary (cancer development) and secondary (cancer progression and metastatic disease) prevention. Consequently, clinical implementation of knowledge accumulated in the area is still highly restricted. To stimulate coherent co-development of the dedicated plant bioactive compound investigation on one hand and comprehensive cancer preventive strategies on the other hand, the current paper highlights and deeply analyses relevant evidence available in the area. Key molecular mechanisms are presented to detail genoprotective and anticancer activities of plants and phytochemicals. Clinical implementation is discussed. Based on the presented evidence, advanced chemopreventive strategies in the context of 3P medicine are considered.
Correction to: Beneficiation of coal using supercritical water and carbon dioxide extraction: sulfur removal
Authors: DeCuir Matthew J. , Gupta Ram B. , Sastri Bhima
Published: May 2020

In the original publication, there are few amendments to be made in Section 3.2 Extractive reactions involved.
„Die trägt ja als Deutsche ein Kopftuch“ – Der Einfluss autoritärer Einstellungen auf die Wahrnehmung der Verletzung kultureller Normen
Authors: Asbrock Frank , Albrecht Monika
Published: May 2020

Muslimische Symbole werden häufig als eine von außen herangetragene Bedrohung kultureller Werte in Deutschland wahrgenommen. Was geschieht aber, wenn Mitglieder der eigenen Gruppe diese Symbole verwenden? In der vorliegenden Studie sind wir der Frage nachgegangen, wie deutsche Frauen wahrgenommen werden, die das Kopftuch Al-Amira, tragen.

Nach dem Black Sheep Effekt werden Normverstöße durch Mitglieder der Eigengruppe stärker geahndet als durch Mitglieder einer Fremdgruppe. Wir nehmen an, dass dies besonders dann gelten sollte, wenn Personen hohe Ausprägungen in autoritären Einstellungen zeigen und daher Normabweichungen als Bedrohung für die Gruppenkohäsion wahrnehmen.

In einer online durchgeführten experimentellen Studie präsentierten wir deutschen Teilnehmenden (N = 193, 139 weiblich, 51 männlich, 3 divers; M Alter = 26, SD = 7,64) anhand eines zweifaktoriellen between-participants Designs Fotos von deutschen oder türkischen Frauen mit oder ohne Kopftuch (Al-Amira) und erfassten Autoritarismus als Moderatorvariable. Entsprechend unserer Hypothesen konnten wir zeigen, dass deutsche Proband*innen mit steigenden Ausprägungen in Autoritarismus weniger Vertrauen und weniger Kommunikationsbereitschaft gegenüber deutschen Frauen mit Kopftuch als gegenüber türkischen Frauen mit Kopftuch zeigten. Die Ergebnisse stützen das Verständnis von Normorientierung als zentrales Merkmal von Autoritarismus.
Prospective associations between social anxiety and depression in youth: The moderating role of maternal major depressive disorder
Authors: Kobezak Holly M. , Gibb Brandon E.
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Although social anxiety symptoms and exposure to maternal major depressive disorder (MDD) have each been conceptualized as key contributors to the development of depression symptoms in youth, these risk factors have not been integrated into a single model of risk. The current study evaluated a two‐hit model of risk to determine whether the impact of social anxiety on prospective changes in youth depressive symptoms is stronger among youth exposed to maternal MDD than among those of never‐depressed mothers.

Methods

Participants were youth (aged 8–14 at baseline, 50.4% girls, 80.9% Caucasian) and their biological mothers recruited from the community in the United States. Of the mothers, 129 had a history of MDD during their youth's lifetime and 117 had no lifetime history of MDD. At the initial assessment, mothers completed diagnostic interviews and youth completed self‐report measures of social anxiety and depressive symptoms. Participants were reassessed every 6 months for 2 years during which youth again completed the symptom measures.

Results

Results of hierarchical linear modeling revealed that levels of social anxiety predicted prospective increases in depressive symptoms among offspring of mothers with a history of MDD, but not among those of never‐depressed mothers. Depressive symptoms did not predict prospective changes in social anxiety (alone or in interaction with maternal MDD).

Conclusions

These results provide preliminary evidence for an integrated model of risk such that social anxiety symptoms may be a particularly strong risk factor for the subsequent development of depression symptoms among youth with exposure to maternal MDD.
Effect of pimecrolimus on postoperative peritoneal adhesions in rat: An experimental study
Authors: Azadi Hamed , Davoodabadi Abdoulhossein , Akbari Hossein , Benafsheh Hmid Reza , Norroddini Mahdi , Hajian Abbas
Published: May 2020

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Postoperative peritoneal adhesions (PPAs) is a common complication of abdominal surgeries causing significant morbidity and mortality. The inflammatory response to damaged peritoneal tissue is a speculated culprit. The aim of this study is to investigate the protective effect of pimecrolimus, an anti-inflammatory and immunomodulator agent, in formation of PPAs in rats.

Methods:

Complied with the Animal Research Reporting In Vivo Experiments (ARRIVE) Guidelines Checklist, 50 Albino rats underwent laparotomy and were allocated into 5 groups. In groups 1 to 3, topical pimecrolimus (25, 50 and 100% concentration, respectively) was applies on a scratched area of peritoneum. In group 4, only topical Eucerin was used and group 5, was the control group. On postoperative days 7 and 28, five rats from each group were randomly selected and the tensile strength and adhesiveness of intraabdominal fibrotic bundles were assessed.

Results:

There was no significant difference in tensile strength and adhesiveness, between the groups on postoperative day 7. On postoperative day 28, however, the tensile strength was significantly lower in pimecrolimus groups than in Eucerin (<0.001) and control (<0.001) groups. Groups with higher concentrations of pimecrolimus (group 2 and 3) developed significantly less adhesions than group 1, in which lower pimecrolimus concentration was used.

Conclusion:

Administration of topical pimecrolimus decrease adhesions and their tensile strength on postoperative day 28 in rats.

Highlight:
Modified endoscopic pilonidal sinus treatment (EPSiT): Personal experience
Authors: Saikaly Elias , Saad Melissa Kyriakos
Published: May 2020

Pilonidal disease is common problem in the sacrococcygeal region, especially among young adults. The optimal surgical approach is debatable. Herein, we present our experience in management of recurrent pilonidal disease using the endoscopic approach.
Effects of dietary electrolyte balance and calcium supply on mineral and acid−base status of piglets fed a diversified diet
Authors: Bournazel M. , Duclos M. J. , Lecompte F. , Guillou D. , Peyronnet C. , Quinsac A. , Même N. , Narcy A.
Published: May 2020

Dietary electrolyte balance (dEB) is known to affect acid−base status and mineral metabolism, but is rarely considered in diet formulation for pigs. Yet, the use of a wide variety of local feedstuffs in Europe contributes to lowering the dEB and increasing the fibre content. Hence, mineral requirements may be modified and skeletal health affected. Therefore, the effects of a lower dEB and a higher dietary Ca level on acid−base balance and mineral status were assessed in young pigs fed a diversified diet. A total of twenty-four weaned pigs were fed a control moderate-dEB diet (C) or a diversified moderate-dEB (D), low-dEB (D-A) or low-dEB supplemented with Ca (D-CA) diet. Growth performance, venous blood gas and chemistry, urine pH, mineral balance and femur characteristics were determined. With an equivalent dEB compared with the C diet, the D diet caused an acidification of the urine and increased the excretion of P as a result of a higher dietary content of S. Low-grade metabolic acidosis occurred in piglets fed the D-A diet with changes at systemic and urine levels. A higher excretion of ammonia and P in urine was observed and some bone characteristics tended to be negatively affected. Ca supplementation partially counteracted the effects of low-grade acidosis. Urine excretion of P and ammonia was alleviated and bone characteristics improved. In conclusion, a higher Ca supply must be considered in more diversified diets to counteract the risk of evolving towards low-grade metabolic acidosis which can negatively affect bone.
Linear work generation of R-MAT graphs
Authors: Hübschle-Schneider Lorenz , Sanders Peter
Published: May 2020

R-MAT (for Recursive MATrix) is a simple, widely used model for generating graphs with a power law degree distribution, a small diameter, and communitys structure. It is particularly attractive for generating very large graphs because edges can be generated independently by an arbitrary number of processors. However, current R-MAT generators need time logarithmic in the number of nodes for generating an edge— constant time for generating one bit at a time for node IDs of the connected nodes. We achieve constant time per edge by precomputing pieces of node IDs of logarithmic length. Using an alias table data structure, these pieces can then be sampled in constant time. This simple technique leads to practical improvements by an order of magnitude. This further pushes the limits of attainable graph size and makes generation overhead negligible in most situations.
A linear formation-flying astronomical interferometer in low Earth orbit
Authors: Hansen Jonah T. , Ireland Michael J.
Published: May 2020

Space interferometry is the inevitable end point of high angular resolution astrophysics, and a key technology that can be leveraged to analyse exoplanet formation and atmospheres with exceptional detail. However, the anticipated cost of large missions, such as Darwin and TPF-I, and inadequate technology readiness levels have resulted in limited developments since the late 2000s. Here, we present a feasibility study into a small-scale formation-flying interferometric array in low Earth orbit, which will aim to prove the technical concepts involved with space interferometry while still making unique astrophysical measurements. We will detail the proposed system architecture and metrology system, as well as present orbital simulations that show that the array should be stable enough to perform interferometry with <50 m s–1 yr–1 delta-v and one thruster per spacecraft. We also conduct observability simulations to identify which parts of the sky are visible for a given orbital configuration. We conclude with optimism that this design is achievable, but a more detailed control simulation factoring in a demonstrated metrology system is the next step to demonstrate full mission feasibility.
THE TEXT OF PLINY, HN 19.4–5
Authors: Jacobs John
Published: May 2020

In the passage about the flax plant, lini natura et miracula (HN 1.19) at the beginning of Book 19 (1–25) of his Naturalis historia, Pliny launches into a moralizing diatribe on man's assault against Nature, fulminating against the evils which man brings upon himself by taking to the high seas in ships with sails. The passage culminates in the rhetorical outburst audax uita, scelerumque plena (19.4), which serves as something of a moral aphorism for the jeremiad as a whole. Although it has been the subject of much discussion in Plinian scholarship, the text still remains in need of attention (HN 19.4–5):

audax uita, scelerumque plena! aliquid seri, ut uentos procellasque capiat, 5. et parum esse fluctibus solis uehi, iam uero nec uela satis esse maiora nauigiis, sed, cum uix amplitudini antemnarum singulae arbores sufficiant, super eas tamen addi alia uela, praeterque alia in proris et alia in puppibus pandi, ac tot modis prouocari mortem, denique tam paruo semine nasci quod orbem terrarum ultro citro portet, tam gracili auena, tam non alte a tellure tolli, neque id uiribus suis necti, sed fractum tunsumque et in mollitiem lanae coactum iniuria ad summam audaciam peruenire!
‘From Felix to the helix, and from the cradle to the grave – Semon's contribution to thyroid surgery’, Royal Society of Medicine, 1 November 2019, London, UK
Authors: Watkinson J C
Published: May 2020

Mr President, Mr President Elect, Fellows and Members, Ladies and Gentleman, it is a pleasure to address the Section of Laryngology this morning and deliver the 94th Semon Lecture. I would like to thank the Semon Committee for their kind invitation. My lecture will discuss Sir Felix Semon (the man himself), highlight the history of head and neck surgery, and then discuss the requirements of a modern-day thyroid surgeon. I have no conflict of interest and nothing to declare.
Neural connectivity biotypes: associations with internalizing problems throughout adolescence
Authors: Chahal Rajpreet , Weissman David G. , Hallquist Michael N. , Robins Richard W. , Hastings Paul D. , Guyer Amanda E.
Published: May 2020

Background

Neurophysiological patterns may distinguish which youth are at risk for the well-documented increase in internalizing symptoms during adolescence. Adolescents with internalizing problems exhibit altered resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) of brain regions involved in socio-affective processing. Whether connectivity-based biotypes differentiate adolescents’ levels of internalizing problems remains unknown.

Method

Sixty-eight adolescents (37 females) reported on their internalizing problems at ages 14, 16, and 18 years. A resting-state functional neuroimaging scan was collected at age 16. Time-series data of 15 internalizing-relevant brain regions were entered into the Subgroup-Group Iterative Multi-Model Estimation program to identify subgroups based on RSFC maps. Associations between internalizing problems and connectivity-based biotypes were tested with regression analyses.

Results

Two connectivity-based biotypes were found: a Diffusely-connected biotype (N = 46), with long-range fronto-parietal paths, and a Hyper-connected biotype (N = 22), with paths between subcortical and medial frontal areas (e.g. affective and default-mode network regions). Higher levels of past (age 14) internalizing problems predicted a greater likelihood of belonging to the Hyper-connected biotype at age 16. The Hyper-connected biotype showed higher levels of concurrent problems (age 16) and future (age 18) internalizing problems.

Conclusions

Differential patterns of RSFC among socio-affective brain regions were predicted by earlier internalizing problems and predicted future internalizing problems in adolescence. Measuring connectivity-based biotypes in adolescence may offer insight into which youth face an elevated risk for internalizing disorders during this critical developmental period.
Mentalization-based treatment for psychotic disorder: a rater-blinded, multi-center, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Weijers J. , Ten Kate C. , Viechtbauer W. , Rampaart L. J. A. , Eurelings E. H. M. , Selten J. P.
Published: May 2020

Background

Impaired mentalizing ability – an impaired ability to understand one's own and other people's behavior in terms of mental states – is associated with social dysfunction in non-affective psychotic disorder (NAPD). We tested whether adding mentalization-based treatment for psychotic disorder (MBTp) to treatment as usual (TAU) results in greater improvement in social functioning.

Methods

Multicenter, rater-blinded, randomized controlled trial. Eighty-four patients with NAPD were assigned to TAU or MBTp plus TAU. Patients in the MBTp group received 18 months of MBTp, consisting of weekly group sessions and one individual session per 2 weeks. Social functioning was measured using the Social Functioning Scale. We conducted ANCOVAs to examine the difference between treatment conditions directly after treatment and at 6-month follow-up and performed moderation and mediation analyses.

Results

Intention-to-treat analyses showed no significant differences between groups post-treatment (p = 0.31) but revealed the MBTp group to be superior to TAU at follow-up (p = 0.03). Patients in the MBTp group also seemed to perform better on measures of mentalizing ability, although evidence of a mediation effect was limited (p = 0.06). Lastly, MBTp treatment was less effective in chronic patients than in recent-onset patients (p = 0.049) and overall symptoms at baseline were mild, which may have reduced the overall effectiveness of the intervention.

Conclusion

The results suggest that MBTp plus TAU may lead to more robust improvements in social functioning compared to TAU, especially for patients with a recent onset of psychosis.
The relative importance of personal beliefs, meta-stereotypes and societal stereotypes of age for the wellbeing of older people
Authors: Fasel Nicole , Vauclair Christin-Melanie , Lima Maria Luísa , Abrams Dominic
Published: May 2020

Negative images of old age can harm older individuals’ cognitive and physical functioning and health. Yet, older people may be confronted with age stereotypes that are inconsistent with their own personal beliefs. We examine the implications for older people's wellbeing of three distinct elements of age stereotypes: their personal beliefs about their age group, their perception about how others generally perceive older people (i.e.their meta-stereotypes) and the societal age stereotypes that are empirically widely shared in society. Using measures from the Stereotype Content Model and survey data of older people from the United Kingdom (UK) (Study 1, N = 171), we found only partial overlap between older people's personal beliefs and their meta-stereotypes. Personal beliefs were unrelated to wellbeing, but positive meta-stereotypes of older people's competence were linked to higher wellbeing. These findings were largely replicated with a sample of baby-boomers from Switzerland (Study 2, N = 400) controlling for socio-demographics. Study 3 used representative survey data (N = 10,803) across 29 European countries, to test and confirm that the link between positive competence meta-stereotypes and wellbeing can be generalised to different cultures, and that positive warmth meta-stereotypes were an additional predictor. At the country level, societal age stereotypes about competence were positively related to the wellbeing of older people, but only in countries that provide greater opportunities for competence attainment.
Nutrient and food group intakes and skeletal muscle index in the Japanese elderly: a cross-sectional analysis of the NHNS 2017
Authors: Okada Chika , Okada Emiko , Takimoto Hidemi
Published: May 2020

Objective:

To examine nutrient and food intakes according to the levels of skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) in the elderly.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Data were derived from the 2017 National Health and Nutrition Survey in Japan. SMI was calculated by dividing appendicular skeletal muscle (or lean) mass (kg) by height squared (m2). We calculated the multivariable-adjusted means of individuals’ dietary intake. Dietary intake of energy, nutrients and food categories was assessed by examining dietary records using a semi-weighed method and compared according to the sex-specific quartiles of SMI.

Participants:

Men and women aged ≥60 years.

Results:

Among 797 men and 969 women, individuals with a higher SMI consumed more energy and more nutrients than did those with a lower SMI after adjusting for age, lifestyle and physical activity factors. After further adjusting for energy intake, total dietary fibre, vitamin A, vitamin B6, K, Fe and Cu were positively associated with higher SMI in men (Pfor trend < 0·05). For food categories, men with a higher SMI consumed more vegetables and meats, but the associations were attenuated after adjustment for energy and remained significant for vegetable only (Pfor trend = 0·018).

Conclusions:

Japanese elderly people with a higher SMI consumed more energy and nutrients and more vegetables than did those with a lower SMI. This finding shows that diet is important in preventing muscle loss among the elderly in an ageing society.
The purchase of the Diabetic Healthy Food Basket in Cyprus results in cost savings: is it affordable among the low-income population?
Authors: Chrysostomou Stavri , Koutsampelas Christos , Andreou Sofia N. , Pittas Charalampos
Published: May 2020

Objective:

The main objective was to assess the cost, acceptability and affordability of the Cypriot Diabetic Healthy Food Basket (DHFB).

Design:

The development of DHFB was based on the Cypriot HFB with adjustments based on the nutritional guidelines for diabetes as developed by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and information retrieved through the questionnaires. Two DHFB were constructed for adult women and adult men (±40 years) diagnosed with diabetes. Affordability was defined as the cost of DHFB as a percentage of the Guaranteed Minimum Income (GMI).

Setting:

Cyprus.

Participants:

422 diabetic patients aged 18–87 years from different socioeconomic backgrounds.

Results:

DHFB consists of eight food categories, similar to Cypriot HFB, but different specific food items. The total monthly budget for a diabetic woman is about 15 % (25·68 Euros less) lower compared with HFB, and the relative percentage for a diabetic man is about 16 % (37·58 Euros less). The total monthly budget for a diabetic woman is about 30 % lower (60·32 Euros less) compared with that of a diabetic man. For low-income adults receiving GMI, the proportion of income that would need to be spent on DHFB ranges from around 30 to 42 % for women and men, respectively.

Conclusions:

The cost of DHFB is lower compared with HFB, meaning that nutritional treatment based on the practice guidelines for diabetes could be a cost-efficient therapy for these patients. DHFB is still not affordable among low-income persons.
High loss liquid dielectric characterization: Comparison of microwave waveguide and resonator measurement techniques
Authors: Eremenko Z. E. , Shubnyi A. I. , Kogut A. Y. , Dolia R. S.
Published: May 2020

The microwave waveguide and resonator methods are compared as applied to the experimental determination of the dielectric properties of high loss liquids. A differential microwave waveguide cavity for measuring high loss liquids complex permittivity in a small volume has been designed and studied. This cavity consists of two circular waveguide cells with central rods made of quartz and surrounded by high loss liquid tested. The cells have different lengths to eliminate complex propagation coefficient measurement errors due to the diffraction effect on the ends of the layered waveguide cells. We have measured the wave amplitude and phase coefficients for the waveguide cavity to estimate physical properties of a high loss liquid under test. The resonant frequencies and the Q-factor of a semi-disk dielectric resonator with high loss liquid filling a capillary have been measured. We have selected water-ethanol solutions as a high loss liquid under test for both techniques. We have determined the measurement sensitivity for these two techniques. The measuring results are discussed. Both the waveguide and resonator methods provide comparable sensitivity and can be successfully used for the complex permittivity characterization of high loss liquids in small volumes.
Extremely low birth weight influences the relationship between stress and telomere length in adulthood
Authors: Savoy Calan D. , Schmidt Louis A. , McGowan Patrick O. , Saigal Saroj , Van Lieshout Ryan J.
Published: May 2020

This study examined the link between two biological markers of stress vulnerability at 22–26 years of age and telomere length at 30–35 among extremely low birth weight (ELBW; <1000 g) survivors and normal birth weight (NBW; >2500 g) control participants. Sixteen ELBW and 22 NBW participants provided baseline afternoon salivary cortisol samples and resting frontal electroencephalogram (EEG) alpha asymmetry data at 22–26 years. Buccal cells were assayed for telomere length at 30–35 years. Analyses controlled for sex, postnatal steroid exposure, childhood socioeconomic status, time of cortisol sample collection, and body mass index at 22–26 years. Salivary cortisol and frontal asymmetry at age 22–26 independently predicted telomere length at age 30–35, such that relatively higher cortisol and greater relative right frontal asymmetry at rest predicted telomere shortening among NBW controls, but not among ELBW survivors. However, similar associations were not noted in ELBW survivors, suggesting that ELBW survivors may have different mechanisms of stress coping as a result of their early-life exposures. These findings offer preliminary evidence in support of the role of stress in the genesis of cellular senescence at least among those born at NBW, but that these links may differ in those born preterm.
Nierensonomorphologie bei COVID-19 mit akuter Niereninsuffizienz
Authors: Tuma Jan , Neugebauer Felix , Rohacek Martin , Serra Andreas
Published: May 2020

Zusammenfassung. Ein 78-jähriger beatmungspflichtiger COVID-19-Patient entwickelte eine schwere Niereninsuffizienz mit einer geschätzten glomerulären Filtrationsrate von 20 ml/min pro 1,73 m2 und einer nephrotischen Proteinurie. Sonografisch imponierten echodichte und vergrösserte Nieren mit hohen Resistenzindizes (>0,8). In der Echokontrastsonografie zeigte sich eine verspätete Nierenperfusion. Im weiteren Verlauf erholte sich die Nierenfunktion, die Nierengrösse nahm ab und die Nierenperfusion normalisierte sich. Eine akute COVID-19-assoziierte interstitielle Nephritis wird postuliert.
Traveltime Calculations for qP, qSV, and qSH Waves in Two‐Dimensional Tilted Transversely Isotropic Media
Authors: Huang Guangnan , Luo Songting , Deng Juzhi , Vavryčuk Václav
Published: May 2020

This paper presents a fast sweeping method (FSM) to calculate the first‐arrival traveltimes of the qP, qSV, and qSH waves in two‐dimensional (2D) transversely isotropic media, whose symmetry axis may have an arbitrary orientation (tilted transverse isotropy [TTI]). The method discretizes the anisotropic eikonal equation with finite difference approximations on a rectangular mesh and solves the discretized system iteratively with the Gauss‐Seidel iterations along alternating sweeping orderings. At each mesh point, a highly nonlinear equation is solved to update the numerical solution until its convergence. For solving the nonlinear equation, an interval that contains the solutions is first determined and partitioned into few subintervals such that each subinterval contains one solution; then, the false position method is applied on these subintervals to compute the solutions; after that, among all possible solutions for the discretized equation, a causality condition is imposed, and the minimum solution satisfying the causality condition is chosen to update the solution. For problems with a point‐source condition, the FSM is extended for solving the anisotropic eikonal equation after a factorization technique is applied to resolve the source singularities, which yields clean first‐order accuracy. When dealing with the triplication of the qSV wave, solutions corresponding to the minimal group velocity are chosen such that continuous solutions are computed. The accuracy, efficiency, and capability of the proposed method are demonstrated with numerical experiments.
Crustal Structure of the Niuafo'ou Microplate and Fonualei Rift and Spreading Center in the Northeastern Lau Basin, Southwestern Pacific
Authors: Schmid F. , Kopp H. , Schnabel M. , Dannowski A. , Heyde I. , Riedel M. , Hannington M. D. , Engels M. , Beniest A. , Klaucke I. , Augustin N. , Brandl P. A. , Devey C.
Published: May 2020

The northeastern Lau Basin is one of the fastest opening and magmatically most active back‐arc regions on Earth. Although the current pattern of plate boundaries and motions in this complex mosaic of microplates is reasonably understood, the internal structure and evolution of the back‐arc crust are not. We present new geophysical data from a 290 km long east‐west oriented transect crossing the Niuafo'ou Microplate (back‐arc), the Fonualei Rift and Spreading Center (FRSC) and the Tofua Volcanic Arc at 17°20′S. Our P wave tomography model and density modeling suggest that past crustal accretion inside the southern FRSC was accommodated by a combination of arc crustal extension and magmatic activity. The absence of magnetic reversals inside the FRSC supports this and suggests that focused seafloor spreading has until now not contributed to crustal accretion. The back‐arc crust constituting the southern Niuafo'ou Microplate reveals a heterogeneous structure comprising several crustal blocks. Some regions of the back‐arc show a crustal structure similar to typical oceanic crust, suggesting they originate from seafloor spreading. Other crustal blocks resemble a structure that is similar to volcanic arc crust or a “hydrous” type of oceanic crust that has been created at a spreading center influenced by slab‐derived water at distances <50 km to the arc. Throughout the back‐arc region, we observe a high‐velocity (Vp 7.2–7.5 km s−1) lower crust, which is an indication for magmatic underplating, which is likely sustained by elevated upper mantle temperatures in this region.
Adolphe Nicolas (1936–2020)
Authors: Boudier Fran�oise , Coleman Bob , Ildefonse Benoit , Kelemen Peter , Mainprice David
Published: May 2020

This decorated researcher and educator made major contributions to understanding mantle processes and the creation of oceanic crust at spreading ridges, together with public outreach on climate change.
Performance and Accuracy Implications of Parallel Split Physics‐Dynamics Coupling in the Energy Exascale Earth System Atmosphere Model
Authors: Donahue Aaron S. , Caldwell Peter M.
Published: May 2020

Simultaneous calculation of atmospheric processes is faster than calculating processes one at a time. This type of parallelism is beneficial or perhaps even necessary to provide good performance on modern supercomputers, which achieve faster performance through increased processor count rather than improved clock speed. The scalability of the Energy Exascale Earth System Model (E3SM) Atmosphere Model (EAM) is limited by the fluid dynamics which scales up to the number of mesh cells in the global mesh. In contrast, the suite of physics parameterizations in EAM is scalable up to the total number of physics columns, which is an order of magnitude greater than the number of mesh cells. A proposed solution to unlocking the greater potential performance from the physics suite is to solve the physics and dynamics in parallel. This work represents a first attempt at parallel splitting of the grid‐scale fluid dynamics model and the subgrid‐scale physics parameterizations in a global atmosphere model. We will demonstrate that switching to parallel physics‐dynamics coupling extends the scalability of the EAM to up to 3 times the previous peak scalability limit and is up to 20% faster than the sequentially split coupling at the highest core counts and the same time step. Decadal simulations of both coupling approaches show very little impact to the model climate. This improved performance does not come without drawbacks, however. Parallel splitting requires a shorter time step and other modifications which largely offset performance gains. A mass fixer is required for conservation. Techniques for mitigating these issues are also discussed.
Neoplastic fibrocytes play an essential role in bone marrow fibrosis in Jak2V617F-induced primary myelofibrosis mice
Authors: Ozono Yoshinori , Shide Kotaro , Kameda Takuro , Kamiunten Ayako , Tahira Yuki , Sekine Masaaki , Akizuki Keiichi , Nakamura Kenichi , Iwakiri Hisayoshi , Sueta Mitsue , Hidaka Tomonori , Kubuki Yoko , Yamamoto Shojiro , Hasuike Satoru , Sawaguchi Akira , Nagata Kenji , Shimoda Kazuya
Published: May 2020

Primary myelofibrosis (PMF) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) characterized by clonal myeloproliferation, progressive bone marrow (BM) fibrosis, splenomegaly, and anemia. BM fibrosis was previously thought to be a reactive phenomenon induced by mesenchymal stromal cells that are stimulated by the overproduction of cytokines such as transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1. However, the involvement of neoplastic fibrocytes in BM fibrosis was recently reported. In this study, we showed that the vast majority of collagen- and fibronectin-producing cells in the BM and spleens of Jak2V617F-induced myelofibrosis (MF) mice were fibrocytes derived from neoplastic hematopoietic cells. Neoplastic monocyte depletion eliminated collagen- and fibronectin-producing fibrocytes in BM and spleen, and ameliorated most characteristic MF features in Jak2V617F transgenic mice, including BM fibrosis, anemia, and splenomegaly, while had little effect on the elevated numbers of megakaryocytes and stem cells in BM, and leukothrombocytosis in peripheral blood. TGF-β1, which was produced by hematopoietic cells including fibrocytes, promoted the differentiation of neoplastic monocytes to fibrocytes, and elevated plasma TGF-β1 levels were normalized by monocyte depletion. Collectively, our data suggest that neoplastic fibrocytes are the major contributor to BM fibrosis in PMF, and TGF-β1 is required for their differentiation.
On-chip plasmonic spin-Hall nanograting for simultaneously detecting phase and polarization singularities
Authors: Feng Fu , Si Guangyuan , Min Changjun , Yuan Xiaocong , Somekh Michael
Published: May 2020

Phase and polarization singularities are important degrees of freedom for electromagnetic field manipulation. Detecting these singularities is essential for modern optics, but it is still a challenge, especially in integrated optical systems. In this paper, we propose an on-chip plasmonic spin-Hall nanograting structure that simultaneously detects both the polarization and phase singularities of the incident cylindrical vortex vector beam (CVVB). The nanograting is symmetry-breaking with different periods for the upper and lower parts, which enables the unidirectional excitation of the surface plasmon polariton depending on the topological charge of the incident optical vortex beam. Additionally, spin-Hall meta-slits are integrated onto the grating so that the structure has a chiral response for polarization detection. We demonstrate theoretically and experimentally that the designed structure fully discriminates both the topological charges and polarization states of the incident beam simultaneously. The proposed structure has great potential in compact integrated photonic circuits.
Trophic innovations fuel reef fish diversification
Authors: Siqueira Alexandre C. , Morais Renato A. , Bellwood David R. , Cowman Peter F.
Published: May 2020

Reef fishes are an exceptionally speciose vertebrate assemblage, yet the main drivers of their diversification remain unclear. It has been suggested that Miocene reef rearrangements promoted opportunities for lineage diversification, however, the specific mechanisms are not well understood. Here, we assemble near-complete reef fish phylogenies to assess the importance of ecological and geographical factors in explaining lineage origination patterns. We reveal that reef fish diversification is strongly associated with species’ trophic identity and body size. Large-bodied herbivorous fishes outpace all other trophic groups in recent diversification rates, a pattern that is consistent through time. Additionally, we show that omnivory acts as an intermediate evolutionary step between higher and lower trophic levels, while planktivory represents a common transition destination. Overall, these results suggest that Miocene changes in reef configurations were likely driven by, and subsequently promoted, trophic innovations. This highlights trophic evolution as a key element in enhancing reef fish diversification.
A network of RNA-binding proteins controls translation efficiency to activate anaerobic metabolism
Authors: Ho J. J. David , Balukoff Nathan C. , Theodoridis Phaedra R. , Wang Miling , Krieger Jonathan R. , Schatz Jonathan H. , Lee Stephen
Published: May 2020

Protein expression evolves under greater evolutionary constraint than mRNA levels, and translation efficiency represents a primary determinant of protein levels during stimuli adaptation. This raises the question as to the translatome remodelers that titrate protein output from mRNA populations. Here, we uncover a network of RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) that enhances the translation efficiency of glycolytic proteins in cells responding to oxygen deprivation. A system-wide proteomic survey of translational engagement identifies a family of oxygen-regulated RBPs that functions as a switch of glycolytic intensity. Tandem mass tag-pulse SILAC (TMT-pSILAC) and RNA sequencing reveals that each RBP controls a unique but overlapping portfolio of hypoxic responsive proteins. These RBPs collaborate with the hypoxic protein synthesis apparatus, operating as a translation efficiency checkpoint that integrates upstream mRNA signals to activate anaerobic metabolism. This system allows anoxia-resistant animals and mammalian cells to initiate anaerobic glycolysis and survive hypoxia. We suggest that an oxygen-sensitive RBP cluster controls anaerobic metabolism to confer hypoxia tolerance.
Quantum interference device for controlled two-qubit operations
Authors: Loft Niels Jakob Søe , Kjaergaard Morten , Kristensen Lasse Bjørn , Andersen Christian Kraglund , Larsen Thorvald W. , Gustavsson Simon , Oliver William D. , Zinner Nikolaj T.
Published: May 2020

Universal quantum computing relies on high-fidelity entangling operations. Here, we demonstrate that four coupled qubits can operate as a quantum gate, where two qubits control the operation on two target qubits (a four-qubit gate). This configuration can implement four different controlled two-qubit gates: two different entangling swap and phase operations, a phase operation distinguishing states of different parity, and the identity operation (idle quantum gate), where the choice of gate is set by the state of the control qubits. The device exploits quantum interference to control the operation on the target qubits by coupling them to each other via the control qubits. By connecting several four-qubit devices in a two-dimensional lattice, one can achieve a highly connected quantum computer. We consider an implementation of the four-qubit gate with superconducting qubits, using capacitively coupled qubits arranged in a diamond-shaped architecture.
X-ray nano-tomography of complete scales from the ultra-white beetles Lepidiota stigma and Cyphochilus
Authors: Burg Stephanie L. , Washington Adam L. , Villanova Julie , Dennison Andrew J. C. , McLoughlin Daragh , Mykhaylyk Oleksandr O. , Vukusic Pete , Furnass Will , Jones Richard A. L. , Parnell Andrew J. , Fairclough J. Patrick A.
Published: May 2020

High resolution X-ray nano-tomography experiments are often limited to a few tens of micrometer size volumes due to detector size. It is possible, through the use of multiple overlapping tomography scans, to produce a large area scan which can encompass a sample in its entirety. Mounting and positioning regions to be scanned is highly challenging and normally requires focused ion beam approaches. In this work we have imaged intact beetle scale cells mounted on the tip of a needle using a micromanipulator stage. Here we show X-ray holotomography data for single ultra-white scales from the beetlesLepidiota stigma(L. stigma) andCyphochiluswhich exhibit the most effective scattering of white light in the literature. The final thresholded matrices represent a scan area of 25 × 70 × 362.5 µm and 25 × 67.5 × 235µm while maintaining a pixel resolution of 25 nm. This tomographic approach allowed the internal structure of the scales to be captured completely intact and undistorted by the sectioning required for traditional microscopy techniques.
Modulation of inter-organ signalling in obese mice by spontaneous physical activity during mammary cancer development
Authors: Le Guennec Delphine , Hatte Victor , Farges Marie-Chantal , Rougé Stéphanie , Goepp Marie , Caldefie-Chezet Florence , Vasson Marie- Paule , Rossary Adrien
Published: May 2020

Accumulative evidence links breast cancer development to excess weight and obesity. During obesity, dysregulations of adipose tissue induce an increase in pro-inflammatory adipokine secretions, such as leptin and oestrogen secretions. Furthermore, a raise in oxidative stress, along with a decrease in antioxidant capacity, induces and maintains chronic inflammation, which creates a permissive environment for cancer development. Physical activity is recommended as a non-pharmacological therapy in both obese and cancer situations. Physical activity is associated with a moderation of acute inflammation, higher antioxidant defences and adipokine regulation, linked to a decrease of tumour-cell proliferation. However, the biological mechanisms underlying the relationship between oxidative stress, low-grade inflammation, carcinogenesis, obesity and physical activity are poorly understood. Our study is based on old, ovariectomised mice (C57BL/6J mice, 33 weeks old), fed with a high fat diet which increases adipose tissue favouring overweight and obesity, and housed in either an enriched environment, promoting physical activity and social interactions, or a standard environment constituting close to sedentary conditions. Our model of mammary carcinogenesis allowed for the exploration of tissue secretions and signalling pathway activation as well as the oxidative status in tumours to clarify the mechanisms involved in a multiple factorial analysis of the data set. The multiple factorial analysis demonstrated that the most important variables linked to moderate, spontaneous physical activity were the increase in growth factor (epithelial growth factor (EGF), hepatocyte growth factor (HGF)) and the activation of the signalling pathways (STAT3, c-jun n-terminal kinases (JNK), EKR1/2, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)) in the gastrocnemius (G). In inguinal adipose tissue, the NF-κB inflammation pathway was activated, increasing the IL-6 content. The adiponectin plasma (P) level increased and presented an inverse correlation with tumour oxidative status. Altogether, these results demonstrated that spontaneous physical activity in obesity conditions could slow down tumour growth through crosstalk between muscle, adipose tissue and tumour. A spontaneous moderate physical activity was able to modify the inter-organ exchange in a paracrine manner. The different tissues changed their signalling pathways and adipokine/cytokine secretions, such as adiponectin and leptin, resulting in a decrease in anti-oxidative response and inflammation in the tumour environment. This model showed that moderate, spontaneous physical activity suppresses tumour growth via a dialogue between the organs close to the tumour.