bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quasiparticle multiplets and 5f electronic correlation in prototypical plutonium borides
Authors: Lu Haiyan , Huang Li
Published: March 2022

In this paper, we investigate the electronic structures of plutonium borides (PuB
x
, x = 1, 2, 6, 12) to uncover the fascinating bonding behavior and orbital dependent correlations of 5f valence electrons by using the density functional theory combined with single-site dynamical mean-field method. We not only reproduce the correlated topological insulator of PuB6, but also predict the metallicity in PuB
x
(x = 1, 2, 12). It is found that the band structure, density of states, hybridization functions all indicate partially itinerant 5f states in PuB
x
(x = 1, 2, 6, 12). Especially, quasiparticle multiplets induced noteworthy valence state fluctuations implying the mixed-valence behavior of plutonium borides. Moreover, the itinerant degree of freedom for 5f electrons in PuB
x
(x = 1, 2, 12) is tuned by hybridization strength between 5f states and conduction bands, which is affected by atomic distance in plutonium borides. Lastly, 5f electronic correlations encoded in the electron self-energy functions demonstrate moderate 5f electronic correlations in PuB6 and orbital selective 5f electronic correlations in PuB
x
(x = 1, 2, 12). Consequently, the understanding of electronic structure and related crystal structure stability shall shed light on exploring novel 5f electrons states and ongoing experiment study.
A facile method to synthesize 3D nanosheets of Fe/S doped α-Ni(OH)2 as an electrocatalyst for improved oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Chu Yuanyuan , Zhang Xiaoxiao , Deng Bohan , Wang Kuixiao , Tan Xiaoyao
Published: March 2022

S-doped Fe/Ni oxide and Fe/Ni hydride oxide catalysts exhibit good oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance. Nevertheless, the over-doping of S and the agglomeration of active sites still hinder the improvement of the performance of these catalysts. The S/O ratio regulation can optimize the electronic structure effectively so as to improve the OER performance of the catalysts, but few studies have focused on this study. Here, we find a facile room-temperature method to synthesize the unique 3D ultra-thin FeNiOS nanosheets with an adjustable S/O ratio for OER. The FeNiOS-NS catalysts exhibit excellent OER performance with an overpotential of 235 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 64.2 mV dec−1 in 0.1 M KOH, which originated from the sufficient exposure of the active Fe–Ni component and the optimized electronic structure due to the tunable S/O ratio. This study demonstrates a novel strategy to optimize the OER performance of Ni-based catalysts.
High-performance manganese and nitrogen codoped carbon (Mn–N–C) oxygen reduction electrocatalyst from Mn2+ coordinated sodium alginate
Authors: Kong Ziyan , Wang Huiying , Hou Kun , Guan Lunhui
Published: March 2022

The research on low-cost, high-performance non platinum group metal (PGM) oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) catalysts is of great significance for the rapid promotion of fuel cells’ practical applications. In this work, Mn–N–C catalyst with outstanding activity was prepared through using hydrogel formed by coordination of sodium alginate (SA) and Mn2+ as the precursor. During the preparation process, g-C3N4 was added to improve the surface area enrich the pore structure of catalysts, as well as to function as the nitrogen source. Compare with commercial Pt/C catalyst, the optimum Mn–N–C catalyst possesses extraordinary ORR activity in alkaline electrolytes, with a half-wave potential (E
1/2) of 0.90 V. In addition, the Mn–N–C catalyst also displays exceptional stability in alkaline and acidic electrolytes, much superior to Pt/C catalyst.
Silver-decorated black phosphorus: a synergistic antibacterial strategy
Authors: Deng Fang , Wu Ping , Qian Guowen , Shuai Yang , Zhang Lemin , Peng Shuping , Shuai Cijun , Wang Guoyong
Published: March 2022

Black phosphorus (BP) exhibits great potential as antibacterial materials due to its unique photocatalytic activity. However, the unsatisfactory optical absorption and quick recombination of photoinduced electron–hole pairs restrain its photocatalytic antibacterial performance. In this work, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were decorated on BP to construct BP@AgNPs nanohybrids and then introduced into poly-l-lactic acid scaffold. Combining the tunable bandgap of BP and the LSPR effect of AgNPs, BP@AgNPs nanohybrids displayed the broaden visible light absorption. Furthermore, AgNPs acted as electron acceptors could accelerate charge transfer and suppress electron–hole recombination. Therefore, BP@AgNPs nanohybrids achieved synergistically enhanced photocatalytic antibacterial activity under visible light irradiation. Fluorescence probe experiment verified that BP@AgNPs promoted the generation of reactive oxygen species, which could disrupt bacteria membrane, damage DNA and oxide proteins, and finally lead to bacteria apoptosis. As a result, the scaffold possessed strong antibacterial efficiency with a bactericidal rate of 97% under light irradiation. Moreover, the scaffold also exhibited good cytocompatibility. This work highlighted a new strategy to develop photocatalytic antibacterial scaffold for bone implant application.
Thermal transport of bilayer graphene: a homogeneous nonequilibrium molecular dynamics study
Authors: Feng Hao , Zhang Kai , Wang Xin , Zhang Guiqing , Guo Xiaoyong
Published: March 2022

In this paper, the thermal transport of bilayer graphene is revisited by the homogeneous nonequilibrium molecular dynamics (HNEMD) method realized in a graphics processing unit based molecular dynamics package, GPUMD. Our simulations are carried out in three-dimensional boxes. An optimized Teroff potential is used to describe C-C covalent bonds, and the inter-layer van der Waals interaction is described by the 12-6 Lennard-Jones potential. Since the HNEMD method is homogeneous without boundary scattering, we obtain more accurate results than previous nonequilibrium molecular dynamics studies. Through intensive simulations, the main findings of the paper are as follows. (1) We find an efficient simulation setting, yielding results which are in good agreement with the experimental data; (2) Although the increase of the system size and the extension of production period has a beneficial effect to obtain more convergent results, these lead to large discrepancy with the experimental data; (3) The thermal conductivity is reduced by the phonon scattering among graphene layers; (4) The spectral decomposition of thermal conductivity shows that the bilayer graphene retains the spectrum of its monolayer counterpart except for the increasing magnitudes; (5) The spectral phonon mean free path of bilayer graphene reveals the presence of a new phonon mode which may have a negative contribution to the thermal conductivity.
Molecular spin switch triggered by voltage and magnetic field: towards DNA-based molecular devices
Authors: Salimi M , Fathizadeh S , Behnia S
Published: March 2022

Spin state switching of the DNA sequences due to external stimuli is investigated theoretically. A molecular-based memory or logic device such as a spin switch could be directly realized within an electronic circuit. The DNA system is subjected to an electrical potential difference through the metal leads for controlling the spin transport. The spectral analysis of spin states demonstrates that voltage operates as a crucial tool to turn the switch on. The width of the functional voltage range changes when the system is subjected to an external magnetic field. The magnetic field reduces the system’s symmetry and drives the system to an extended state. Hence, the voltage and magnetic field can modulate the spin transport properties of DNA. The ability to control the spin localization/delocalization states in DNA chains opens up a new approach for efficient computation and data storage.
Near-infrared switching between slow and fast light in the metal nanoparticles-graphene nanodisks-quantum dots hybrid systems
Authors: Tohari Mariam M
Published: March 2022

Graphene-based nanocomposites have recently attracted much interest due to the unique properties of graphene plasmons paving the way to promising potential applications. We study the near-infrared linear optical properties of the metal nanoparticle-graphene nanodisk- quantum dot hybrid system by numerically solving the equation of motion for the density matrix elements that describe the dynamics of the system where the quantum dot is modeled as a three-level atomic system of Λ configuration interacting with a weak probe field and strong control field. We obtain a strong switching between slow and fast light near resonance can be controlled by the distances between the components of the system, the size of metal nanoparticle as well as the Rabi frequency of the control field. Moreover, the proposed hybrid plasmonic system shows a significant amplification without population inversion can be effectively monitored by strength of the control field. Thus, we think that the metal nanoparticle-graphene nanodisk- quantum dot hybrid system has potential applications in communication, sensing, imaging, signal processing and optoelectronics devices.
Integrating optical turbulence into Beer’s law
Authors: Ata Yalçın , Korotkova Olga
Published: March 2022

A new quantity is introduced for characterization of the on-axis attenuation of a finite laser beam caused by a turbulent medium. It then can be incorporated into the Beer’s law accounting for the extended medium’s absorption and scattering, and hence provides a simple tool for comparison among the effects of turbulence, absorption and scattering on light. The application of the new attenuation coefficient to atmospheric and oceanic turbulence is illustrated.
Fast-ion-driven vertical modes in magnetically confined toroidal plasmas
Authors: Barberis T. , Porcelli F. , Yolbarsop A.
Published: March 2022

A new type of fast particle instability involving axisymmetric modes in magnetic fusion tokamak plasmas is presented. The relevant dispersion relation involves three roots. One corresponds to a vertical plasma displacement that, in the absence of active feedback stabilization, grows on the wall resistivity time scale. The other two, oscillating close to the poloidal Alfvén frequency, are normally damped by wall resistivity. The resonant interaction with fast ions can drive the oscillatory roots unstable. Resonance conditions, stability thresholds and experimental evidence are discussed.
Verification methodology of a multi-mode radiation-hard high-speed transceiver ASIC
Authors: Pulli A. , Kremastiotis I. , Kulis S.
Published: March 2022

The second version of Low Power Giga Bit Transceiver (lpGBTv1) addresses the functional and radiation-related issues discovered during the testing of lpGBTv0 prototype. Considerable changes to the chip configuration architecture and flow were required. The Universal Verification Methodology (UVM) based verification environment was extensively refactored to address the functional verification challenges posed by the architectural changes in the chip. Additionally, the new UVM environment was designed to support extensive verification of robustness to Single Event Effects (SEE). In this paper we present the revamped UVM verification framework of lpGBTv1 and discuss the verification process, tools, techniques and metrics used to sign-off the design before submission.
Regional disparities in the exposure to heat-related mortality risk under 1.5 °C and 2 °C global warming
Authors: Fan Yuwen , Pei-Syuan Liao , Im Eun-Soon , Lo Min-Hui
Published: March 2022

An increase in heat-related mortality risk has emerged to accompany the ravages of climate change, but its unambiguous assessment remains an onerous task, owing to the non-linear associations between the severity of hot temperatures and human body response. The present study assesses the future heat-related mortality risk under different levels of warming (1.5 °C vs. 2 °C) using the multi-models’ large ensemble simulations. In order to augment the robustness of the patterns for future changes in heat-related mortality risk, multiple indices representing the excess mortality risk solely attributed to higher temperature are estimated from different meteorological variables (maximum temperature, maximum wet-bulb temperature and mean temperature). The ensemble projections reveal a worldwide surge in heat-related mortality risk, albeit with a regionally diverse pattern. Although comparisons of the different indices show some quantitative differences, they provide remarkably consistent regional hotspots, thus amplifying the possible benefit of a mitigation equivalent to 0.5 °C less warming in the equatorial region. In addition to the severity of hot temperatures, the demographic changes evolving along the different shared socio-economic pathways also determine the exposure to heat-related mortality risk. Based on multiple indices and large ensemble simulations, this study contributes to the identification of regional hotspots in terms of the exposure of (the elderly) population to heat-related mortality risk, underscoring the necessity of regionally-tailored adaptation strategies.
Investing in sustainable intensification for smallholders: quantifying large-scale costs and benefits in Uganda
Authors: Piemontese Luigi , Kamugisha Rick Nelson , Barron Jennie , Tukahirwa Joy Margaret Biteete , Harari Nicole , Jaramillo Fernando
Published: March 2022

In Uganda, upgrading smallholder agriculture is a necessary step to achieve the interlinked sustainable development goals of hunger eradication, poverty reduction and land degradation neutrality. However, targeting the right restoration practices and estimate their cost-benefit at the national scale is difficult given the highly contextual nature of restoration practices and the diversity of small-scale interventions to be adopted. By analysing the context-specific outcomes of 82 successful case studies on different sustainable land and water management (SLWM) in Uganda, we estimated that out-scaling of existing successful practices to 75% of agricultural land would require a one-time investment of US$ 4.4 billion from smallholders. Our results show that, besides the many social and environmental benefit commonly associated to SLWM, a wide outscale of SLWM could generate US$ 4.7 billion every year, once the practices are fully operational. Our context-specific estimates highlight the profitability of investing in smallholder farming to achieve the sustainable development goals in Uganda, with geographical differences coming from specific social-ecological conditions. This study can guide sustainable intensification development by targeting the most suitable SLWM practices and plan for adequate financial support from government, investors and international development aids to smallholder farming.
Imaging evaluation of computer-generated hologram by using three-dimensional modified structural similarity index
Authors: Chen Chien-Yu , Chuang Chih-Hao , Lin Hoang-Yan , Zhuo Ding-Yu
Published: March 2022

Image quality evaluation is a key factor in the advancement and improvement of display technology, which could lead to effective improvement through the evaluation result from various aspects to achieve the better result further. However, display principles and image characteristics should be considered for Image quality evaluation. For three-dimensional (3D) holograms, charge-coupled devices are mainly applied to capture and record reconstructed images for analysis. 3D holograms have multiple depths and thus can lead to varying light intensities at the information points of the reconstructed images during image acquisition. Finally, it will lead to poor analysis results. Aiming at the previously mentioned problem, an algorithm called three-dimensional structural similarity (3D-SSIM) is proposed in this study. It is expected to optimize hologram evaluation and analysis. A fixed-focus shooting system matching silhouette sampling and SSIM is proposed to sample objects with 360° in order to implement 3D SSIM evaluation. This study successfully optimized the hologram evaluation method, leading to more accurate image evaluation results of hologram algorithms or holographic display systems.
One-step extraction of cellulose nanocrystals from high lignin biomass through ammonium persulfate oxidation method
Authors: Madani Haroki , Wibowo Arie , Judawisastra Hermawan , Nishiyama Norikazu , Budhi Yogi Wibisono
Published: March 2022

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are one of the emerging nanomaterials that have several interesting and unique properties such as high mechanical strength (Young modulus of 100–140 GPa), low density (1.6 g cm−3), and large surface area (150–250 m2 g−1) that are advantageous in a myriad of applications. In this study, CNCs were successfully prepared from empty fruit bunch (EFB), an agricultural waste from palm oil, using a one-step extraction method using ammonium persulfate oxidation. EFB was directly reacted with ammonium persulfate (APS) at different concentrations (1.0; 1.5 and 2.0 M) at 60 °C for 15 h to undergo the oxidation. The oxidised EFB samples were characterised by dynamic light scattering (DLS), x-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscope (TEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The FTIR result shows that lignin and hemicellulose in the EFB were successfully removed using one-step extraction method with minimum APS concentration of 1.5 M. The CNCs product has a crystallinity index of 64.1%, a crystallite size of 3.86 nm, and (0 0 2) plane lattice spacing of 3.95 Å. Based on the lattice spacing calculation of all samples, the crystalline structure of cellulose does not change during the oxidation process. The proposed one-step extraction method has been proven to produce the CNCs from EFB with a crystallinity index of 64.1%, a length of 275.9 ± 82.8 nm, and a diameter of 25 ± 5.3 nm.
Harnessing friction stir back extrusion process to fabricate microtubes from as-cast Mg–4Zn–0.7Zr-1.6RE magnesium alloy
Authors: Lakshminarayanan A K , Ramachandran Saranarayanan , Bakkiyaraj M , Rajabharathi B
Published: March 2022

Friction Stir Back Extrusion (FSBE) is a novel manufacturing process widely used to produce lightweight tubes with superior mechanical properties. This work aims to establish the optimum process parameters of the FSBE method to fabricate flaw-free small-scale magnesium microtubes from as-cast Mg-Zn-Zr-Re magnesium alloy. FSBE experimental trials in the light of the Taguchi optimization were attempted to optimize and develop relationships that can link the crucial process parameters, namely tool rotational rate, feed rate, and billet preheating temperature of the FSBE process on the microstructural alterations, microhardness, and corrosion resistance characteristics. The results suggest that the FSBE parameters, especially the tool feed rate, have a crucial influence on the performance attributes of microtubes. Additionally, it is evident that both the tool rotation rate and feed rate significantly affect the formation of dynamically recrystallized fraction (DRX) of the stir zone. The stir zone has achieved a higher density of fine recrystallized grains than the base metal region, which subsequently led to a spike in the microhardness values of this zone. This study has determined that the FSBE technique significantly enhanced the corrosion degradation resistance of microtubes as compared with cast material. The optimal FSBE parameters such as tool rotational rate of 1440 rpm, feed rate of 20 mm min−1, and billet preheating temperature of 100 °C have offered microtubes with the highest microhardness and lowest corrosion degradation rate.
Fast identification of mural pigments at Mogao Grottoes using a LIBS-based spectral matching algorithm
Authors: ZHANG Yiming , SUN Duixiong , YIN Yaopeng , YU Zongren , SU Bomin , DONG Chenzhong , SU Maogen
Published: March 2022

To quickly identify the mineral pigments in the Dunhuang murals, a spectral matching algorithm (SMA) based on four methods was combined with laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) for the first time. The optimal range of LIBS spectrum for mineral pigments was determined using the similarity value between two different types of samples of the same pigment. A mineral pigment LIBS database was established by comparing the spectral similarities of tablets and simulated samples, and this database was successfully used to identify unknown pigments on tablet, simulated, and real mural debris samples. The results show that the SMA method coupled with the LIBS technique has great potential for identifying mineral pigments.
A secure crossing two qubits protocol based on quantum homomorphic encryption
Authors: Cheng Zhen-Wen , Chen Xiu-Bo , Xu Gang , Chang Yan , Yang Yu , Yang Yi-Xian
Published: March 2022

In order to solve the information leakage caused by dishonest intermediate nodes in quantum network coding, we apply quantum homomorphic encryption to the butterfly network, and propose a secure protocol for crossing two qubits. Firstly, in the communication process between two senders and the first intermediate node, two senders encrypt their measured particles and send them to the first intermediate node for encoding. If two intermediate nodes are dishonest and know the encryption rules between two senders and two receivers, or there is an external eavesdropper, none of them can recover the transmitted qubits of two senders from the encrypted transmitted particles. In this way, our protocol can transmit two qubits safely and crossly in the butterfly network. Secondly, by analyzing the internal participant attack and the external eavesdropper attack launched by dishonest intermediate nodes and an external eavesdropper respectively, it is confirmed that our protocol is secure. Finally, the experimental simulation results based on the Qiskit framework prove that our protocol is feasible.
Impact of HPA nonlinearity on the performance of power domain OFDM-NOMA system
Authors: Mounir Mohamed , El Mashade Mohamed Bakry , Aboshosha Ashraf Mohamed , Youssef Mohamed Ibrahim
Published: March 2022

Non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA) is expected to be used in beyond fifth-generation (B5G) and sixth-generation (6G) mobile networks to support ultra-massive connectivity. Since the two preceding mobile networks generations used orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM), NOMA is expected to be combined with OFDM. Unfortunately, the OFDM signal suffers from a high peak to average power ratio (PAPR) that limits its performance as it passes through the nonlinear high power amplifier (HPA). In literature, few works have studied the effect of nonlinear distortion on OFDM-NOMA. Furthermore, the HPA models used in previous works to describe the impact of nonlinear distortion on OFDM-NOMA in downlink (DL) were impractical or inaccurate. In contrast, this work uses the well-known soft limiter (SL) model with input back-off (IBO) as a practical controlling parameter. Also, instead of investigating the effect of nonlinear distortion on OFDM-NOMA in DL only, this work investigated this effect in both DL and uplink (UL). In particular, during this work, the performance of the OFDM-NOMA system in the presence of nonlinear distortion in both UL and DL is investigated in terms of users’ achievable data rate, sum rate capacity, system fairness, and the bit error rate (BER) of each user. Results showed that, in DL, the NU is the most affected by the nonlinear distortion, while, in UL, the nonlinear distortion caused by the NU’s HPA is more severe than the nonlinear distortion caused by other users.
mlGeNN: accelerating SNN inference using GPU-enabled neural networks
Authors: Turner James Paul , Knight James C , Subramanian Ajay , Nowotny Thomas
Published: March 2022

In this paper we present mlGeNN—a Python library for the conversion of artificial neural networks (ANNs) specified in Keras to spiking neural networks (SNNs). SNNs are simulated using GeNN with extensions to efficiently support convolutional connectivity and batching. We evaluate converted SNNs on CIFAR-10 and ImageNet classification tasks and compare the performance to both the original ANNs and other SNN simulators. We find that performing inference using a VGG-16 model, trained on the CIFAR-10 dataset, is 2.5× faster than BindsNet and, when using a ResNet-20 model trained on CIFAR-10 with FewSpike ANN to SNN conversion, mlGeNN is only a little over 2× slower than TensorFlow.
Nonstandard Liouville tori and caustics in asymptotics in the form of Airy and Bessel functions for 2D standing coastal waves
Authors: Anikin A. , Dobrokhotov S. , Nazaikinskii V. , Tsvetkova A.
Published: March 2022

The spectral problem

−
⟨
∇
,
D
(
x
)
∇
ψ
⟩
=
λ
ψ

-\langle \nabla ,D(x)\nabla \psi \rangle = \lambda \psi

in a bounded two-dimensional domain 

Ω
\Omega

is considered, where

D
(
x
)

D(x)

is a smooth function positive inside the domain and zero on the boundary whose gradient is different from zero on the boundary. This problem arises in the study of long waves trapped by the shore and by bottom irregularities. For its asymptotic solutions as

λ
→
∞

\lambda \rightarrow \infty

, explicit formulas are given when

D
(
x
)

D(x)

has a special form that guarantees the complete integrability of the Hamiltonian system corresponding to the Hamiltonian

H
(
x
,
p
)
=
D
(
x
)

p
2

H(x,p)=D(x)p^2

. Since the problem is degenerate, the relevant Liouville tori are not in the standard phase space

T
∗

Ω

T^*\Omega

, but in the “extended” phase space 

Φ

⊃

T
∗

Ω

\mathbf {\Phi }\supset T^*\Omega

, while their restrictions to 

T
∗

Ω

T^*\Omega

are not compact and “go to infinity” with respect to momenta near the boundary of

Ω
\Omega

. As a result, nonstandard caustics emerge, formed by the boundary or its part, near which asymptotic eigenfunctions are expressed in terms of a Bessel function of composite argument. Standard caustics (within the domain) may also appear, which yield Airy functions in the asymptotics.
Short wave diffraction on a contour with a Hölder singularity of the curvature
Authors: Zlobina E. , Kiselev A.
Published: March 2022

Formulas are constructed for the short-wave asymptotics in the problem of diffraction of a plane wave on a contour with continuous curvature that is smooth everywhere except for one point near which it has a power-like behavior. The wave field is described in the boundary layers surrounding the singular point of the contour and the limit ray. An expression for the diffracted wave is found.
Solution asymptotics for the system of Landau–Lifshitz equations under a saddle-node dynamical bifurcation
Authors: Kalyakin L.
Published: March 2022

A system of two nonlinear differential equations with slowly varying coefficients is treated. The asymptotics in the small parameter for the solutions that have a narrow transition layer is studied. Such a layer occurs near the moment where the number of roots of the corresponding algebraic system of equations changes. To construct the asymptotics, the matching method involving three scales is used.
Steady state non-Newtonian flow in a thin tube structure: equation on the graph
Authors: Panasenko G. , Pileckas K. , Vernescu B.
Published: March 2022

The dimension reduction for the viscous flows in thin tube structures leads to equations on the graph for the macroscopic pressure with Kirchhoff type junction conditions at the vertices. Nonlinear equations on the graph generated by the non-Newtonian rheology are treated here. The existence and uniqueness of a solution of this problem is proved. This solution describes the leading term of an asymptotic analysis of the stationary non-Newtonian fluid motion in a thin tube structure with no-slip boundary condition on the lateral boundary.
Leading trait dimensions in flood-tolerant plants
Authors: Pan Yingji , Cieraad Ellen , Armstrong Jean , Armstrong William , Clarkson Beverley R , Pedersen Ole , Visser Eric J W , Voesenek Laurentius A C J , van Bodegom Peter M
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims

While trait-based approaches have provided critical insights into general plant functioning, we lack a comprehensive quantitative view on plant strategies in flooded conditions. Plants adapted to flooded conditions have specific traits (e.g. root porosity, low root/shoot ratio and shoot elongation) to cope with the environmental stressors including anoxic sediments, and the subsequent presence of phytotoxic compounds. In flooded habitats, plants also respond to potential nutrient and light limitations, e.g. through the expression of leaf economics traits and size-related traits, respectively. However, we do not know whether and how these trait dimensions are connected.

Methods

Based on a trait dataset compiled on 131 plant species from 141 studies in flooded habitats, we quantitatively analysed how flooding-induced traits are positioned in relation to the other two dominant trait dimensions: leaf economics traits and size-related traits. We evaluated how these key trait components are expressed along wetness gradients, across habitat types and among plant life forms.

Key Results

We found that flooding-induced traits constitute a trait dimension independent from leaf economics traits and size-related traits, indicating that there is no generic trade-off associated with flooding adaptations. Moreover, individual flooding-induced traits themselves are to a large extent decoupled from each other. These results suggest that adaptation to stressful environments, such as flooding, can be stressor specific without generic adverse effects on plant functioning (e.g. causing trade-offs on leaf economics traits).

Conclusions

The trait expression across multiple dimensions promotes plant adaptations and coexistence across multifaceted flooded environments. The decoupled trait dimensions, as related to different environmental drivers, also explain why ecosystem functioning (including, for example, methane emissions) are species and habitat specific. Thus, our results provide a backbone for applying trait-based approaches in wetland ecology by considering flooding-induced traits as an independent trait dimension.
KDM5-mediated redistribution of H3K4me3 is required for oocyte-to-embryonic transition in cattle
Authors: Dang Yanna , Luo Lei , Shi Yan , Li Shuang , Wang Shaohua , Zhang Kun
Published: March 2022

Reprogramming of histone modifications is critical to safeguard correct gene expression profile during preimplantation development. Of interest, trimethylation of lysine 4 on histone 3 (H3K4me3) exhibits a unique and dynamic landscape with a potential species-specific feature. Here, we address how it is reprogrammed and its functional significance during oocyte maturation and early embryonic development in cows. Notably, the overall signal of H3K4me3 decreased sharply during embryonic genome activation (EGA). By using low input ChIP-seq, we find widespread broad H3K4me3 domains in oocytes and early cleaved embryos. The broad domains are gradually removed after fertilization, which is obviously seen during EGA. Meanwhile, H3K4me3 becomes enriched at promoter regions after the removal of broad H3K4me3. Interestingly, the gene expression level displays a positive correlation with the relative H3K4me3 signal of their promoters when embryos reach 16-cell stage. Importantly, disruption of KDM5 (H3K4me3 demethylases) increases H3K4me3 level, decreases the embryonic developmental rate, and results in dysregulation of over a thousand genes. Meanwhile, KDM5 deficiency causes a redistribution of H3K4me3 across genome. In particular, H3K4me3 in gene body or intergenic regions cannot be removed, and H3K4me3 in promoter regions is aberrantly reduced. Besides, the positive correlation between promoter H3K4me3 enrichment and gene expression level disappears. Overall, we describe the genomic reprogramming of H3K4me3 with a greater resolution during bovine preimplantation development and propose that KDM5-mediated redistribution of H3K4me3 plays an important role in modulating oocyte-to-embryonic transition.
SIRT1 in the cardiomyocyte counteracts doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity via regulating histone H2AX
Authors: Kuno Atsushi , Hosoda Ryusuke , Tsukamoto Miki , Sato Tatsuya , Sakuragi Hiromi , Ajima Nami , Saga Yukika , Tada Kouhei , Taniguchi Yoshiki , Iwahara Naotoshi , Horio Yoshiyuki
Published: March 2022

Aims

Cardiotoxicity by doxorubicin predicts worse prognosis of patients. Accumulation of damaged DNA has been implicated in doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. SIRT1, an NAD+-dependent histone/protein deacetylase, protects cells by deacetylating target proteins. We investigated whether SIRT1 counteracts doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by mediating Ser139 phosphorylation of histone H2AX, a critical signal of the DNA damage response.

Methods and results

Doxorubicin (5 mg/kg per week, x4) was administered to mice with intact SIRT1 (Sirt1f/f) and mice that lack SIRT1 activity in cardiomyocytes (Sirt1f/f;MHCcre/+). Reductions in left ventricular fractional shortening and ejection fraction by doxorubicin treatment were more severe in Sirt1f/f;MHCcre/+ than in Sirt1f/f. Myocardial expression level of type-B natriuretic peptide was 2.5-fold higher in Sirt1f/f;MHCcre/+ than in Sirt1f/f after doxorubicin treatment. Sirt1f/f;MHCcre/+ showed larger fibrotic areas and higher nitrotyrosine levels in the heart after doxorubicin treatment. Although doxorubicin-induced DNA damage evaluated by TUNEL staining was enhanced in Sirt1f/f;MHCcre/+, the myocardium from Sirt1f/f;MHCcre/+ showed blunted Ser139 phosphorylation of H2AX by doxorubicin treatment. In H9c2 cardiomyocytes, SIRT1 knockdown attenuated Ser139 phosphorylation of H2AX, increased DNA damage, and enhanced caspase-3 activation under doxorubicin treatment. Immunostaining revealed that acetylation level of H2AX at Lys5 was higher in hearts from Sirt1f/f;MHCcre/+. In H9c2 cells, acetyl-Lys5-H2AX level was increased by SIRT1 knockdown and reduced by SIRT1 overexpression. Ser139 phosphorylation in response to doxorubicin treatment was blunted in a mutant H2AX with substitution of Lys5 to Gln (K5Q) that mimics acetylated lysine compared with that in wild-type H2AX. Expression of K5Q-H2AX as well as S139A-H2AX, which cannot be phosphorylated at Ser139, augmented doxorubicin-induced caspase-3 activation. Treatment of mice with resveratrol, a SIRT1 activator, attenuated doxorubicin-induced cardiac dysfunction, which was associated with a reduction in acetyl-Lys5-H2AX level and a preserved phospho-Ser139-H2AX level.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that SIRT1 counteracts doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by mediating H2AX phosphorylation through its deacetylation in cardiomyocytes.
Population Source of Third-Generation Oriental Armyworm in Jilin, China, Determined by Entomology Radar, Trajectory Analysis, and Mitochondrial COI Sequences
Authors: Sun Wei , Hu Gao , Su Qianfu , Wang Yangzhou , Yang Wei , Zhou Jiachun , Gao Yuebo
Published: March 2022

The armyworm, Mythimna separata (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is an important polyphagous pest with a strong migratory ability. Recently, third-generation larvae have become an increasingly serious pest threat in Jilin Province of northeast China. To investigate the population source of this species, scanning entomological radar observations and insect mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (COI) genes were used in this study. Five main results were found: (1) The peak period in captured second-generation moths was from mid to late July. The temperature and wind speeds were optimum for the moths to have migrated. Strong southwesterly winds occurred during the peak migration period. (2) Radar observations indicated that most of the moths’ migration took place at a height of 600 m, often in a dense layer which formed at heights of 350–800 m. (3) Analyses of adult ovarian development and larval haplotypes showed third-generation larvae were progeny of both locally produced progeny and immigrant moths. (4) Based on our back-tracking and haplotype analyses, immigration led to an outbreak originated in the same source area to the southwest. (5) Emigration of second-generation moths was confirmed by both radar observation and mtDNA analysis. Forward trajectories indicated that the moths were capable of immigrating far from their overwintering range. These results are useful for improving the forecasting systems of this insect pest species.
Multi-chamber speckle tracking imaging and diagnostic value of left atrial strain in cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Aimo Alberto , Fabiani Iacopo , Giannoni Alberto , Mandoli Giulia Elena , Pastore Maria Concetta , Vergaro Giuseppe , Spini Valentina , Chubuchny Vladyslav , Pasanisi Emilio Maria , Petersen Christina , Poggianti Elisa , Taddei Claudia , Castiglione Vincenzo , Latrofa Sara , Panichella Giorgia , Sciaccaluga Carlotta , Georgiopoulos Georgios , Passino Claudio , Cameli Matteo , Emdin Michele
Published: March 2022

Aims

Cardiac amyloidosis (CA) affects the four heart chambers, which can all be evaluated through speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE).

Methods and results

We evaluated 423 consecutive patients screened for CA over 5 years at two referral centres. CA was diagnosed in 261 patients (62%) with either amyloid transthyretin (ATTR; n = 144, 34%) or amyloid light-chain (AL; n = 117, 28%) CA. Strain parameters of all chambers were altered in CA patients, particularly those with ATTR-CA. Nonetheless, only peak left atrial longitudinal strain (LA-PALS) displayed an independent association with the diagnosis of CA or ATTR-CA beyond standard echocardiographic variables and cardiac biomarkers (Model 1), or with the diagnosis of ATTR-CA beyond the validated IWT score in patients with unexplained left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy. Patients with the most severe impairment of LA strain were those most likely to have CA or ATTR-CA. Specifically, LA-PALS and/or LA-peak atrial contraction strain (PACS) in the first quartile (i.e. LA-PALS <6.65% and/or LA-PACS <3.62%) had a 3.60-fold higher risk of CA, and a 3.68-fold higher risk of ATTR-CA beyond Model 1. Among patients with unexplained LV hypertrophy, those with LA-PALS or LA-PACS in the first quartile had an 8.76-fold higher risk for CA beyond Model 1, and a 2.04-fold higher risk of ATTR-CA beyond the IWT score.

Conclusions

Among STE measures of the four chambers, PALS and PACS are the most informative ones to diagnose CA and ATTR-CA. Patients screened for CA and having LA-PALS and/or LA-PACS in the first quartile have a high likelihood of CA and ATTR-CA.
The genome organization of Neurospora crassa at high resolution uncovers principles of fungal chromosome topology
Authors: Rodriguez Sara , Ward Ashley , Reckard Andrew T , Shtanko Yulia , Hull-Crew Clayton , Klocko Andrew D
Published: March 2022

The eukaryotic genome must be precisely organized for its proper function, as genome topology impacts transcriptional regulation, cell division, replication, and repair, among other essential processes. Disruptions to human genome topology can lead to diseases, including cancer. The advent of chromosome conformation capture with high-throughput sequencing (Hi-C) to assess genome organization has revolutionized the study of nuclear genome topology; Hi-C has elucidated numerous genomic structures, including chromosomal territories, active/silent chromatin compartments, Topologically Associated Domains, and chromatin loops. While low-resolution heatmaps can provide important insights into chromosomal level contacts, high-resolution Hi-C datasets are required to reveal folding principles of individual genes. Of particular interest are high-resolution chromosome conformation datasets of organisms modeling the human genome. Here, we report the genome topology of the fungal model organism Neurospora crassa at a high resolution. Our composite Hi-C dataset, which merges 2 independent datasets generated with restriction enzymes that monitor euchromatin (DpnII) and heterochromatin (MseI), along with our DpnII/MseI double digest dataset, provide exquisite detail for both the conformation of entire chromosomes and the folding of chromatin at the resolution of individual genes. Within constitutive heterochromatin, we observe strong yet stochastic internal contacts, while euchromatin enriched with either activating or repressive histone post-translational modifications associates with constitutive heterochromatic regions, suggesting intercompartment contacts form to regulate transcription. Consistent with this, a strain with compromised heterochromatin experiences numerous changes in gene expression. Our high-resolution Neurospora Hi-C datasets are outstanding resources to the fungal community and provide valuable insights into higher organism genome topology.
The wing imaginal disc
Authors: Tripathi Bipin Kumar , Irvine Kenneth D
Published: March 2022

The Drosophila wing imaginal disc is a tissue of undifferentiated cells that are precursors of the wing and most of the notum of the adult fly. The wing disc first forms during embryogenesis from a cluster of ∼30 cells located in the second thoracic segment, which invaginate to form a sac-like structure. They undergo extensive proliferation during larval stages to form a mature larval wing disc of ∼35,000 cells. During this time, distinct cell fates are assigned to different regions, and the wing disc develops a complex morphology. Finally, during pupal stages the wing disc undergoes morphogenetic processes and then differentiates to form the adult wing and notum. While the bulk of the wing disc comprises epithelial cells, it also includes neurons and glia, and is associated with tracheal cells and muscle precursor cells. The relative simplicity and accessibility of the wing disc, combined with the wealth of genetic tools available in Drosophila, have combined to make it a premier system for identifying genes and deciphering systems that play crucial roles in animal development. Studies in wing imaginal discs have made key contributions to many areas of biology, including tissue patterning, signal transduction, growth control, regeneration, planar cell polarity, morphogenesis, and tissue mechanics.
Fiscal resiliency in a deeply uncertain world: The role of semiautonomous discretion
Authors: Orszag Peter R , Rubin Robert E , Stiglitz Joseph E
Published: March 2022

This Policy Brief argues that embracing the deep uncertainty about interest rates and other key parameters determining a country’s fiscal position requires a new approach in fiscal policy. It proposes retaining fiscal discretion exercised after making the budget adjust more automatically and rapidly in areas where there is broad consensus that doing so is consistent with achieving broader societal goals. For such a semiautonomous discretionary fiscal architecture five elements are emphasized: stronger automatic stabilizers, a new infrastructure program, extension of debt maturities, indexation of long-term fiscal programs to their underlying drivers, and more emphasis on residual fiscal discretion. The goal is to provide a framework better adapted than our current budgetary structures to deep uncertainty, thus freeing up a discretionary fiscal policy to focus more on adjusting to the unanticipated.
State Responsibility and Compliance with Provisional Measures under ICSID
Authors: McRae Donald
Published: March 2022

Article 47 of the ICSID Convention, grants tribunals authority to “recommend” provisional measures. However, ICSID tribunals have concluded that the word ‘recommend’ is imperative and that ‘recommendations’ for provisional measures are binding. Yet no plausible reason has ever been advanced to justify treating the word ‘recommend’ as the equivalent of ‘order’. An application of Articles 31-33 of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties does not support such a result, and analogies with the practice of the International Court of Justice and the US-Iran Claims Tribunal ignore critical wording differences. The Articles on State Responsibility provide important guidance on why States do in fact have an obligation to comply with provisional measures granted by an ICSID tribunal even though they are only in the form of a recommendation. An internationally wrongful act is a ‘violation by a State of any obligation’. An obligation on participants in international arbitration not to aggravate the dispute is an obligation recognized by international courts and tribunals and equally applicable to investment arbitration. Thus, if failure to comply with provisional measures recommended by an ICSID tribunal amounts to an aggravation of the dispute, then the State concerned has committed an internationally wrongful act for which it is responsible.
Cryotherapy Induced Burns: A Case Series of Three Patients
Authors: Ellis Ryan C , Kohler Casey L , Dvorak Justin E
Published: March 2022

Whole-body cryotherapy involves the use of a specially designed liquid nitrogen cryochamber to expose the body to cold, dry air (below −100°C) for short periods of time and has been gaining popularity in the field of sports and exercise science as an aid in recovery following exercise or injury. While proponents of cryotherapy claim that it can reduce inflammation and expedite muscle recovery, there has yet to be published literature that supports these claims. While there is no evidence that cryotherapy provides any benefits, there is a risk for injury with the use of these devices owing to the extreme cold temperatures that are used. We present the three cases of patients who suffered frostbite injuries secondary to single cryotherapy sessions. The first case involved a 26-year-old male who suffered a full-thickness frostbite injury that eventually required excision and grafting, while cases 2 and 3 involve a 17-year-old male and a 28-year-old male who both suffered partial-thickness injuries.