bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational modeling of seizure spread on a cortical surface
Authors: Sip Viktor , Guye Maxime , Bartolomei Fabrice , Jirsa Viktor
Published: October 2021

In the field of computational epilepsy, neural field models helped to understand some large-scale features of seizure dynamics. These insights however remain on general levels, without translation to the clinical settings via personalization of the model with the patient-specific structure. In particular, a link was suggested between epileptic seizures spreading across the cortical surface and the so-called theta-alpha activity (TAA) pattern seen on intracranial electrographic signals, yet this link was not demonstrated on a patient-specific level. Here we present a single patient computational study linking the seizure spreading across the patient-specific cortical surface with a specific instance of the TAA pattern recorded in the patient. Using the realistic geometry of the cortical surface we perform the simulations of seizure dynamics in The Virtual Brain platform, and we show that the simulated electrographic signals qualitatively agree with the recorded signals. Furthermore, the comparison with the simulations performed on surrogate surfaces reveals that the best quantitative fit is obtained for the real surface. The work illustrates how the patient-specific cortical geometry can be utilized in The Virtual Brain for personalized model building, and the importance of such approach.
Natural Biocidal Compounds of Plant Origin as Biodegradable Materials Modifiers
Authors: Pawłowska Alona , Stepczyńska Magdalena
Published: October 2021

The article presents a literature review of the plant origin natural compounds with biocidal properties. These compounds could be used as modifiers of biodegradable materials. Modification of polymer material is one of the basic steps in its manufacturing process. Biodegradable materials play a key role in the current development of materials engineering. Natural modifiers are non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and renewable. The substances contained in natural modifiers exhibit biocidal properties against bacteria and/or fungi. The article discusses polyphenols, selected phenols, naphthoquinones, triterpenoids, and phytoncides that are natural antibiotics. Due to the increasing demand for biodegradable materials and the protection of the natural environment against the negative effects of toxic substances, it is crucial to replace synthetic modifiers with plant ones. This work mentions industries where materials containing natural modifying additives could find potential applications. Moreover, the probable examples of the final products are presented. Additionally, the article points out the current world’s pandemic state and the use of materials with biocidal properties considering the epidemiological conditions.
Fukinolic acid and cimicifugic acids: a review
Authors: Jahn Anne , Petersen Maike
Published: October 2021

During the last decades, the research on the biological activities of extracts from Cimicifuga/Actaea species and Petasites japonicus as well as their active ingredients has been intensified. Besides terpenoids as dominant natural product group, hydroxycinnamic acid esters such as fukinolic acid and several cimicifugic acids have been isolated from Actaea and Petasites species and their chemical structures have been elucidated. Investigations on the biological properties of these hydroxycinnamic acid esters are currently undertaken and some compounds might be promising therapeutic tools. In this review, we have gathered information on the genera Actaea and Petasites, the occurrence of cimicifugic and fukinolic acids and some aspects of their biosynthesis. Furthermore, we have summarized the medicinal aspects of fukinolic acid and cimicifugic acids. In connection with the biological activities of these compounds, structural features of the hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives move into the focus. The position of the hydroxyl group at the aromatic rings and the introduction of an electron-donating moiety may be important for anti-inflammatory, antiviral, cytotoxic and vasoactive effects of these compounds.
Task specialization and cognitive skills: evidence from PIAAC and IALS
Authors: Martínez-Matute Marta , Villanueva Ernesto
Published: October 2021

We study how the tasks conducted on the job relate to measures of cognitive skills using data from 18 countries participating in the Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competences (PIAAC) and from 13 countries that also participate in the International Adult Literacy Study (IALS). We document two main findings. Firstly, individual-fixed effect models suggest that low-educated workers specializing in a particular set of basic tasks -say, in numeric relative to reading or ICT tasks- obtain 10% of one standard deviation higher scores in the domain of the PIAAC assessment most related to those tasks than in the rest -say, numeracy relative to literacy or problem-solving scores. Secondly, a synthetic cohort analysis using repeated literacy assessments in IALS and PIAAC indicates that, among the low-educated, long-run increases in the reading task component of jobs correlate positively with increases in cohort-level literacy scores. The results are stronger among low-skilled workers with less working experience or females -i.e., the set of workers who have had less time to sort in the labor market. An interpretation of our findings is that tasks conducted on the job help in building human capital but are imperfect substitutes of formal schooling.
Closer Look at Inverse Electron Demand Diels–Alder and Nucleophilic Addition Reactions on s-Tetrazines Using Enhanced Sampling Methods
Authors: Ketkaew Rangsiman , Creazzo Fabrizio , Luber Sandra
Published: October 2021

Inverse electron demand [4+2] Diels–Alder (iEDDA) reactions as well as unprecedented nucleophilic (azaphilic) additions of R-substituted silyl-enol ethers (where R is Phenyl, Methyl, and Hydrogen) to 1,2,4,5-tetrazine (s-tetrazine) catalyzed by $$\hbox {BF}_{3}$$

BF
3

have recently been discovered (Simon et al. in Org Lett 23(7):2426–2430, 2021), where static calculations were employed for calculation of activation energies. In order to have a more realistic dynamic description of these reactions in explicit solution at ambient conditions, in this work we use a semiempirical tight-binding method combined with enhanced sampling techniques to calculate free energy surfaces (FESs) of the iEDDA and azaphilic addition reactions. Relevant products of not only s-tetrazine but also its derivatives such as $$\hbox {BF}_{3}$$

BF
3

-mediated s-tetrazine adducts are investigated. We reconstruct the FESs of the iEDDA and azaphilic addition reactions using metadynamics and blue moon ensemble, and compare the ability of different collective variables (CVs) including bond distances, Social PeRmutation INvarianT (SPRINT) coordinates, and path-CV to describe the reaction pathway. We find that when a bulky Phenyl is used as a substituent at the dienophile the azaphilic addition is preferred over the iEDDA reaction. In addition, we also investigate the effect of $$\hbox {BF}_{3}$$

BF
3

in the diene and steric hindrance in the dienophile on the competition between the iEDDA and azaphilic addition reactions, providing chemical insight for reaction design.
Investigating the environmental Kuznets curve between economic growth and chemical fertilizer surpluses in China: a provincial panel cointegration approach
Authors: Yu Xiaomin , Schweikert Karsten , Doluschitz Reiner
Published: October 2021

This study investigated the relationship between fertilizer nitrogen (N) and phosphate (P) surpluses and economic development on the regional level in China. With a balanced panel dataset covering 30 provinces of mainland China from 1988 to 2019, we employed panel cointegrating polynomial regression (CPR) analysis using fully modified OLS (FM-OLS) estimators. Our results suggested that all provinces exhibit a long-run cointegrated relationship between fertilizer surpluses and real per capita gross regional product (GRP). A total of 22 provinces out of 30 showed a significant inverted U-shaped environmental Kuznets curve (EKC). Among those, 14 provinces are considered to have reached the peak and 8 provinces are considered to be before the peak. The group-mean turning points on the EKC are CNY 7022, CNY 9726, CNY 4697, CNY 3749, and CNY 5588 per capita GRP (1978 = 100) for the Northeast, Northcentral, Middle, and lower reaches of the Yangtze River, Southwest and Northwest China, respectively. The overall turning point of China is CNY 6705 per capita real gross domestic product (GDP), which was reached in circa 2012. This shows a general improvement of chemical fertilizer management in China. However, six provinces still exhibit linear growth in fertilizer surpluses when the economy grows. These regions are characterized by high cash-crop ratios and are mostly located along the southeast coast. Therefore, more effort and attention should be given to these regions to promote further fertilizer reduction. At the same time, nutrient use efficiencies should be improved, especially for cash crops such as fruit and vegetables.
Do people have control over the decisions they make? Psychometric properties of the Italian version of the free will and scientific determinism questionnaire (FAD-plus-I)
Authors: Fino Emanuele , Iliceto Paolo
Published: October 2021

The FAD-Plus is a multidimensional measure of lay Beliefs in Free Will, Fatalistic Determinism, Scientific Determinism, and Unpredictability. This study had four aims: First, to test the factor structure of the Italian translation of the FAD-Plus in a sample of adults from the community, using structural equation modeling. Second, to test the reliability of the four scales. Third, to investigate gender invariance in item thresholds and factor loadings. Fourth, to analyze the criterion-related validity of the measure. Participants were 328 adults from the community, specifically 173 females and 155 males aged 18–56 years. Results showed that the proposed bifactor model tested by means of exploratory structural equation modeling fitted the data well (CFI = 1.000, RMSEA = 0.000, SRMR = 0.045), and that all the scales were reliable (Omega = .91–.98). Gender invariance was established, with no significant differences in fit indices between females and males. Beliefs in Free Will correlated positively and lowly to moderately with Aggressiveness (rs = .12), Extraversion (.25), Self- (.40) and Other-Representations of adult attachment (.43). Beliefs in Fatalistic Determinism correlated positively and lowly with Other-Representations (rs = .11), whereas its correlations with Aggressiveness, Extraversion, and Neuroticism were close to zero. In conclusion, these findings provide researchers and practitioners with evidence on a reliable and valid measure of Beliefs in free will and determinism in the Italian context, considered as predictors of individuals’ autonomy, effective coping, and prosocial behavior, of foremost importance for prevention and intervention in the community, particularly in occupational, legal, and clinical settings.
Performance of cork-based thermal protection material P50 exposed to air plasma
Authors: Sakraker Isil , Chazot Olivier , Carvalho Joao Paulo
Published: October 2021

Cork P50 thermal protection material was characterized under the Earth atmospheric entry conditions in the framework of the in-flight experiment QARMAN. A total of 25 P50 samples were exposed to air plasma ranging the chamber static pressure values of 1500, 4100, 6180, and 20,000 Pa and heat fluxes between 280 and 3250 kW/m$$^2$$

2

. The sample radius was also varied between 11 and 25 mm radius to investigate the effects of the stagnation line velocity gradient. The experimental results on heat flux, pressure, surface and in-depth temperatures, surface emissivity, swelling and recession rates, and computed boundary layer profiles as well as the mass blowing rates are presented. A material characterization data suite is also provided including thermogravimetric analysis, specific heat, and thermal conductivity. Overall, a wide range of experimental data of Cork P50 material in Earth atmospheric entry conditions is made available to modelers and engineers for improved material response models and heat shield design consolidation.
One size doesn’t fit all: regional differences in priorities for food system transformation
Authors: Dengerink Just , Dirks Florentine , Likoko Eunice , Guijt Joost
Published: October 2021

The growing attention for food systems in policy debates has highlighted the systemic linkages between desired food system outcomes. There is an increased recognition that systemic changes are required to improve access to healthy, sustainable diets. While there is abundant academic analysis on the global need for food system transformation, regional differences in food system transformation priorities have received limited scholarly attention. This article aims to address this gap by analysing the results of a regional consultation study about respondents’ perceptions of the needs and modalities for food systems transformation. Data collection consisted of an online survey among 621 agri-food professionals and in-depth interviews among 33 food system experts from different regions across the world. The study shows how different stakeholders across the world prioritise food system drivers, food system challenges and food system transformation strategies. Region, organisational background, countries’ level of food system transformation, political and socio-economic structure are critical factors in determining such priorities. The study highlights relevant food system differences and priorities between food system actors. These differences have important policy implications for the agendas of stakeholders in their regional priorities in food systems transformation. While there is much agreement across regions on the key drivers of different food system challenges, which food system challenge is considered most urgent and which food system transformation strategy deserves most priority, differs greatly between regions. This article shows the importance of including regional and local perspectives in policy debates on the directions food system transformations should take and the need to identify such differences methodically.
Cellulose Nanofibers as Functional Biomaterial from Pineapple Stubbles via TEMPO Oxidation and Mechanical Process
Authors: Araya-Chavarría Kenly , Rojas Ruth , Ramírez-Amador Karla , Sulbarán-Rangel Belkis , Rojas Orlando , Esquivel-Alfaro Marianelly
Published: October 2021

The pineapple fruit when harvested generates a large amount of residual biomass; this biomass can be used to generate value-added products such as cellulose nanofibers. This study was focused on the isolation of CNF from pineapple leaves after oxidation pretreatment with 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpireridine-1-oxyl, followed by mechanical deconstruction of the fibers via combination of grinding and microfluidization process. One and two microfluidization passes were applied to bleached and unbleached fibers, respectively. The implications of these findings are that during the production process it is possible to reduce the amount of chemicals needed for bleaching and the energy involved in the mechanical microfluidization process. Such process yielded corresponding fibril lengths and widths in the range of 481–746 nm and 16–48 nm. The respective electrostatic charges, as measured by zeta potentials, were −41 mV and −31 mV. As expected, the CNF crystallinity was higher than that of the starting material, especially for the cellulose. However, the thermal stability was reduced, showing two degradative processes due to the chemical modification of the fibers. The CNF produced from pineapple leaves has a potential to be used like biomaterial in diverse applications while representing a viable alternative to producers, which face serious environmental and health challenges given the large volume of biomass that is otherwise left in the fields as waste.

Graphic Abstract
Successful approach to mitigate the asphaltenes precipitation problems in ESP oil wells
Authors: Abdelazim Abotaleb , Abu El Ela Mahmoud , El-Banbi Ahmed , Sayyouh Helmy
Published: October 2021

This study introduces a comprehensive and cost-effective approach to diagnose and treat the asphaltenes precipitation problems in different downhole conditions. The proposed approach has been successfully applied in two oil wells (Well-I, and Well-II) located in the Western Desert of Egypt. The two wells produce oil of moderate to high oil gravity with low asphaltenes content using Electrical Submersible Pumps (ESP). In such operating conditions, solid deposits caused blockage at the pump intake and within the pumping stages in the two wells. This blockage led to a sharp decrease in oil production rate and a significant increase in the operating cost. The existing failure analysis procedure was not able to accurately identify the reasons for the blockage; accordingly, the treatment operations were unsuccessful. On the contrary, applying the proposed approach accurately (1) identified the type of the solid deposits, (2) solved the problem using proper treatment option with minimum cost, and (3) improved the oil production rate. The laboratory tests of the fluid and solid deposits showed that (1) the asphaltenes were unstable in the crude oil and acted as a glue for other minerals, and (2) the blockage was successfully diagnosed to confirm that the two wells had asphaltenes precipitation problem. The laboratory tests were extended to select optimum asphaltene dispersant for wells treatments. The field application results showed a significant increase in the oil production rate from 700 to 1600 STB/D in Well-I and from 470 to 1500 STB/D in Well-II. Moreover, the operating cost decreased considerably from 2.01 to 0.43 $/STB in Well-I, and from 4.37 to 0.52 $/STB in Well-II after applying the proposed approach.
Aliens in the Space of Reasons? On the Interaction Between Humans and Artificial Intelligent Agents
Authors: Heinrichs Bert , Knell Sebastian
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we use some elements of the philosophical theories of Wilfrid Sellars and Robert Brandom for examining the interactions between humans and machines. In particular, we adopt the concept of the space of reasons for analyzing the status of artificial intelligent agents (AIAs). One could argue that AIAs, like the widely used recommendation systems, have already entered the space of reasons, since they seem to make knowledge claims that we use as premises for further claims. This, in turn, can lead to a sense of alienation because AIAs do not quite play by the rules of the space of the reason. We, therefore, ask somewhat pointedly whether aliens have entered the space of reasons. A closer look reveals that it is a misconception to consider AIAs as being (already) in the space of reasons. In fact, they should be seen as very sophisticated tools. Since these tools affect our own acting in the space of reasons, special regulations are required for their proper use.
Moral Injury in Former Child Soldiers in Liberia
Authors: Wong Pui-Hang
Published: October 2021

Moral injury (MI) is a form of traumatic stress induced by perpetrating actions that transgress a person’s beliefs and values. Existing research on MI has been mostly confined to military veterans, however there is reason to believe that the risk of MI among child soldiers is higher due to their age and history of abduction. This study examined the risk of MI in former child soldiers in Liberia and tested whether age and history of abduction moderate the relationship between perpetrating violence and MI based on a sample of 459 former child soldiers. Results from regression analysis confirmed that perpetrators had a higher risk of MI. However, while younger perpetrators were more vulnerable to MI, abduction history had no statistically significant moderation effect on the risk of MI. Further analysis also revealed that the moderation effects are primarily on anxiety, avoidance and negative feelings but not re-experiencing. These findings suggest that new tests and treatment models may be required for future disarmament, demobilization, rehabilitation and reintegration (DDRR) policy.
Operationalizing the Benefit of Information Radiators from an Awareness Point of View
Authors: Lippert Stefan , Koch Michael
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we present a grounded theory research for the benefit information radiators provided using the concept of awareness. Information radiators are ubiquitous installations that disseminate information that is likely to improve awareness in semi-public environments. We discuss potential awareness benefits of information radiators and how these can be provided. Furthermore, we examine how to address several awareness facets that correlate with the benefits to contribute to this goal. The results aim to close the research gap about the benefit of information radiators considered from an awareness point of view.
„Das könnte ich nicht“ – Abjekte in der Hospiz- und Palliativversorgung
Authors: Kurkowski Sandra , Heckel Maria
Published: October 2021

Sterben und Tod können als Abjekte wirksam werden und negative Auswirkungen wie Ablehnung und Ausgrenzung auf personaler und sozialer Ebene sowohl für schwerkranke und sterbende Menschen als auch ihre Zugehörigen haben. Doch sind auch Personen, die in der Hospiz- und Palliativversorgung tätig sind, von diesen Mechanismen betroffen. Im vorliegenden Artikel wird skizziert, wie der Umgang mit Abjekten zum Alltag der pflegerischen Versorgung gehört und dabei insbesondere am Lebensende die Patient:innen, ihre Familien und die Versorgenden herausfordert. Im Anschluss werden theoretische Konzepte der Hospiz- und Palliativversorgung vorgestellt, die sowohl auf Ebene der einzelnen Person und der Familie (Total-pain-Modell) als auch der gesellschaftlichen Ebene („compassionate community“) ansetzen und das transgressive Potenzial des Abjekten verringern sowie zu einem gelasseneren und weniger ausgrenzenden Umgang mit Sterben und Tod führen können. Insgesamt gibt der Artikel damit auch eine Antwort auf die Frage nach Bearbeitungsstrategien der negativen Folgen von Abjektion (Exklusion, Stigmatisierung), indem er auf die professionellen Haltungen in der Hospiz- und Palliativversorgung und deren Generalisierbarkeit verweist.
Cavity-dwelling microorganisms from the Ediacaran and Cambrian of North Greenland (Laurentia)
Authors: Peel John S. , Willman Sebastian
Published: October 2021

Records of diagenetically mineralized, filamentous, cavity-dwelling microorganisms extend back to strata from the early Paleoproterozoic (2400 Ma). In North Greenland (Laurentia), they are first known from the Ediacaran (Neoproterozoic; ca. 600 Ma) Portfjeld Formation of southern Peary Land, in association with a biota similar to that of the Doushantuo Formation of China. The Portfjeld Formation cavity dwellers are compared with more widespread occurrences in Cambrian (Series 2, Stage 4, Miaolingian Series) strata from the same region in which assemblages in postmortal shelter structures within articulated acrotretoid brachiopods and other invertebrates are common. All specimens were recovered by digestion of carbonate samples in weak acids. The described fossils are preserved as mineral encrusted threads but this diagenetic phosphatization unfortunately obscures their biological identity.
Remembering James March
Authors: Li Peter Ping , Rhee Mooweon , Sullivan Bilian N.
Published: October 2021

On September 27, 2018, Professor James G. March, a giant in our field, passed away at the age of 90 (1928–2018), just one month after his wife and high school sweetheart, Jayne, passed away. March's impact on the field of organization studies and beyond is profound and long-lasting. The advancement of the field is truly indebted to March's brilliance and dedication to the search of truth as a great scholar. March wrote the inaugural article for Management and Organization Review (MOR) (2005), ‘Parochialism in the Evolution of a Research Community: The Case of Organization Studies’. This article not only provided a critical foundation underlying the editorial structure and philosophy of MOR but also argued eloquently for the salience of indigenous Chinese management studies as a necessary condition for building both contextualized and universal knowledge.
Associations between cortical thickness and anxious/depressive symptoms differ by the quality of early care
Authors: Korom Marta , Tottenham Nim , Valadez Emilio A. , Dozier Mary
Published: October 2021

A variety of childhood experiences can lead to anxious/depressed (A/D) symptoms. The aim of the present study was to explore the brain morphological (cortical thickness and surface area) correlates of A/D symptoms and the extent to which these phenotypes vary depending on the quality of the parenting context in which children develop. Structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were acquired on 45 children with Child Protective Services (CPS) involvement due to risk of not receiving adequate care (high-risk group) and 25 children without CPS involvement (low-risk group) (rangeage = 8.08–12.14; Mage = 10.05) to assess cortical thickness (CT) and cortical surface area (SA). A/D symptoms were measured using the Child Behavioral Checklist. The association between A/D symptoms and CT, but not SA, differed by risk status such that high-risk children showed decreasing CT as A/D scores increased, whereas low-risk children showed increasing CT as A/D scores increased. This interaction was specific to CT in prefrontal, frontal, temporal, and parietal cortical regions. The groups had marginally different A/D scores, in the direction of higher risk being associated with lower A/D scores. Results suggest that CT correlates of A/D symptoms are differentially shaped by the quality of early caregiving experiences and should be distinguished between high- and low-risk children.
Atom Probe Tomography Analysis of Mica
Authors: Cappelli Chiara , Pérez-Huerta Alberto , Alam Sardar B , Prozorov Tanya
Published: October 2021

Laser-assisted atom probe tomography (APT) is a relatively new, powerful technique for sub-nanometric mineral and biomineral analysis. However, the laser-assisted APT analysis of highly anisotropic and chemically diverse minerals, such as phyllosilicates, may prove especially challenging due to the complex interaction between the crystal structure and the laser pulse upon applying a high electric field. Micas are a representative group of nonswelling clay minerals of relevance to a number of scientific and technological fields. In this study, a Mg-rich biotite was analyzed by APT to generate preliminary data on nonisotropic minerals and to investigate the effect of the crystallographic orientation on mica chemical composition and structure estimation. The difference in results obtained for specimens extracted from the (001) and (hk0) mica surfaces indicate the importance of both experimental parameters and the crystallography. Anisotropy of mica has a strong influence on the physicochemical properties of the mineral during field evaporation and the interpretation of APT data. The promising results obtained in the present study open the way to future innovative APT applications on mica and clay minerals and contribute to the general discussion on the challenges for the analysis of geomaterials by atom probe tomography.
Affective solidarity: how guilt enables cross-generational support for political radicalization in Hong Kong
Authors: Tang Gary , Cheng Edmund W.
Published: October 2021

The extant social movement literature tends to regard the youth as radical actors and senior citizens as conservative actors. However, the Anti-Extradition Bill Movement in Hong Kong exhibited strong solidarity among protesters across generations, despite the radicalization of protest actions over an extended period. These phenomena contradict Hong Kong's traditional political culture, which favors peaceful and orderly protests and the worldwide trend where radicalization often leads to internal division in movements. By analyzing the data collected from onsite protest surveys in December 2019 and January 2020 (N= 1,784), this paper presents the mediating role of guilt in shifting senior citizens from opposing radical actions to supporting them and feeling solidarity with militant protesters. We find that the relationship between age and feelings of guilt is stronger among respondents who experience state repression. The findings shed light on the affective and relational dimensions of protest participation, showing how the traumatic conditions under which different social actors are welded together by shared emotional upheavals facilitate ingroup identification and affective solidarity.
Retrieving Water Vapor From an E‐Band Microwave Link With an Empirical Model Not Requiring In Situ Calibration
Authors: Fencl Martin , Dohnal Michal , Bareš Vojtěch
Published: October 2021

An empirical model estimating water vapor density from the attenuation of electromagnetic waves at E‐band frequencies is proposed and tested on seven months of 5‐min attenuation observations from a 4.87‐km‐long full‐duplex E‐band commercial microwave link (CML) operating at 73.5 and 83.5 GHz. The model does not require in situ calibration. Estimated water vapor density is compared to the observations from two meteorological stations located nearby the CML end nodes. Best performance is achieved for the 83.5 GHz sublink (RMSE = 1.46 g m−3, R2 = 0.85) when the actual temperature is used as a model input, in addition to the attenuation data. Use of temperature averaged over the whole evaluation period resulted in significantly worse performance. The study demonstrates the potential of E‐band CMLs for measuring near‐surface air humidity and the need for careful quality control when upscaling the water vapor monitoring to the entire network of E‐band CMLs.
Separation of Poroelastic and Elastic Processes of an Aquifer From Tectonic Phenomena Using Geodetic, Seismic, and Meteorological Data in the Pollino Region, Italy
Authors: Barajas Andrés , Poli Piero , D'Agostino Nicola , Margerin Ludovic , Campillo Michel
Published: October 2021

Velocity variations obtained from ambient seismic noise are sensitive to many factors. We aimed to disentangle these processes in a 10‐year‐long recording of seismic noise from a single station in the Pollino region, in southern Italy. This region is characterized by aquifers and by a relatively short period of high seismic activity that included slow slip events and a earthquake that occurred on October 25, 2012. We apply two models that estimate the water level inside an aquifer, which show a good correlation with the measured , showing that the velocity variations are inversely proportional to the pore pressure inside the aquifer. Our interpretation is further confirmed by geodetic measurements that show that in a direction parallel to the strike angle of the fault rupture, the expansion‐contraction displacement of the zone follows the same patterns observed in the models and in the velocity variations, as a result of the pressure generated by the water on its interior. Going one step further, we analyze the nature of the small discrepancies between the measured and modeled velocity variations. These correlate well with the rainfall and with the vertical geodetic measures, which indicates an elastic response of the zone to the loading generated by the rainwater. Comparisons between these variables allow us to clearly identify the period of the seismic activity in the zone, which is represented by the characteristic drop in the seismic velocity in the period from the beginning of 2012 to mid‐2013.
Identification of four novel QTL linked to the metabolic syndrome in the Berlin Fat Mouse
Authors: Delpero Manuel , Arends Danny , Sprechert Maximilian , Krause Florian , Kluth Oliver , Schürmann Annette , Brockmann Gudrun A. , Hesse Deike
Published: October 2021

Background

The Berlin Fat Mouse Inbred line (BFMI) is a model for obesity and the metabolic syndrome. This study aimed to identify genetic variants associated with impaired glucose metabolism using the obese lines BFMI861-S1 and BFMI861-S2, which are genetically closely related, but differ in several traits. BFMI861-S1 is insulin resistant and stores ectopic fat in the liver, whereas BFMI861-S2 is insulin sensitive.

Methods

In generation 10, 397 males of an advanced intercross line (AIL) BFMI861-S1 × BFMI861-S2 were challenged with a high-fat, high-carbohydrate diet and phenotyped over 25 weeks. QTL-analysis was performed after selective genotyping of 200 mice using the GigaMUGA Genotyping Array. Additional 197 males were genotyped for 7 top SNPs in QTL regions. For the prioritization of positional candidate genes whole genome sequencing and gene expression data of the parental lines were used.

Results

Overlapping QTL for gonadal adipose tissue weight and blood glucose concentration were detected on chromosome (Chr) 3 (95.8–100.1 Mb), and for gonadal adipose tissue weight, liver weight, and blood glucose concentration on Chr 17 (9.5–26.1 Mb). Causal modeling suggested for Chr 3-QTL direct effects on adipose tissue weight, but indirect effects on blood glucose concentration. Direct effects on adipose tissue weight, liver weight, and blood glucose concentration were suggested for Chr 17-QTL. Prioritized positional candidate genes for the identified QTL were Notch2 and Fmo5 (Chr 3) and Plg and Acat2 (Chr 17). Two additional QTL were detected for gonadal adipose tissue weight on Chr 15 (67.9–74.6 Mb) and for body weight on Chr 16 (3.9–21.4 Mb).

Conclusions

QTL mapping together with a detailed prioritization approach allowed us to identify candidate genes associated with traits of the metabolic syndrome. In addition, we provided evidence for direct and indirect genetic effects on blood glucose concentration in the insulin-resistant mouse line BFMI861-S1.
Association of bacterial community types, functional microbial processes and lung disease in cystic fibrosis airways
Authors: Widder Stefanie , Zhao Jiangchao , Carmody Lisa A , Zhang Qingyang , Kalikin Linda M , Schloss Patrick D , LiPuma John J
Published: October 2021

Bacterial infection and inflammation of the airways are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in persons with cystic fibrosis (CF). The ecology of the bacterial communities inhabiting CF airways is poorly understood, especially with respect to how community structure, dynamics, and microbial metabolic activity relate to clinical outcomes. In this study, the bacterial communities in 818 sputum samples from 109 persons with CF were analyzed by sequencing bacterial 16S rRNA gene amplicons. We identified eight alternative community types (pulmotypes) by using a Dirichlet multinomial mixture model and studied their temporal dynamics in the cohort. Across patients, the pulmotypes displayed chronological patterns in the transition among each other. Furthermore, significant correlations between pulmotypes and patient clinical status were detected by using multinomial mixed effects models, principal components regression, and statistical testing. Constructing pulmotype-specific metabolic activity profiles, we found that pulmotype microbiota drive distinct community functions including mucus degradation or increased acid production. These results indicate that pulmotypes are the result of ordered, underlying drivers such as predominant metabolism, ecological competition, and niche construction and can form the basis for quantitative, predictive models supporting clinical treatment decisions.
Body–mind relaxation meditation modulates the thalamocortical functional connectivity in major depressive disorder: a preliminary resting-state fMRI study
Authors: Chen Fangfang , Lv Xueyu , Fang Jiliang , Li Tao , Xu Jinping , Wang Xiaoling , Hong Yang , Hong Lan , Wang Jian , Wang Weidong , Wang Chao
Published: October 2021

Mindfulness-based interventions such as meditation have increasingly been utilized for the treatment of psychological disorders and have been shown to be effective in the treatment of depression and relapse prevention. However, it remains largely unclear the neural mechanism of the therapeutic effects of meditation among depressed individuals. In this study, we investigated how body–mind relaxation meditation (BMRM) can modulate the thalamocortical functional connectivity (FC) in major depressive disorder patients and healthy controls. In the present study, we recruited 21 medication-naive adolescents with major depressive disorder (MDDs) and 24 matched healthy controls (HCs). We designed an audio recording to induce body–mind relaxation meditation. Resting-state fMRI (rs-fMRI) scans were collected before and after the BMRM intervention in both groups. The thalamus subregions were defined according to the Human Brainnetome Atlas, and functional connectivity (FC) was measured and compared to find brain regions that were affected by the BMRM intervention. Before the BMRM intervention, MDDs showed reduced FC of the bilateral precuneus/post cingulate cortex with the left posterior parietal thalamus and left caudal temporal thalamus, as well as an increased FC of the left occipital thalamus with the left medial frontal cortex. Moreover, aberrant FCs in MDDs at baseline were normalized following the BMRM intervention. After the BMRM intervention, both MDDs and HCs showed decreased FC between the left rostral temporal thalamus and the left inferior occipital. Given the small sample used in this study, future studies are warranted to evaluate the generalizability of these findings. Our findings suggest that BMRM is associated with changes in thalamocortical functional connectivity in MDDs. BMRM may act by strengthening connections between the thalamus and the default mode network, which are involved in a variety of high-level functioning, such as attention and self-related processes.
METTL3-mediated mRNA N6-methyladenosine is required for oocyte and follicle development in mice
Authors: Mu Haiyuan , Zhang Ting , Yang Ying , Zhang Danru , Gao Jie , Li Junhong , Yue Liang , Gao Dengfeng , Shi Bingbo , Han Yue , Zhong Liang , Chen Xinze , Wang Zhen-Bo , Lin Zhen , Tong Ming-Han , Sun Qing-Yuan , Yang Yun-Gui , Han Jianyong
Published: October 2021

Proper follicle development is very important for the production of mature oocytes, which is essential for the maintenance of female fertility. This complex biological process requires precise gene regulation. The most abundant modification of mRNA, N6-methyladenosine (m6A), is involved in many RNA metabolism processes, including RNA splicing, translation, stability, and degradation. Here, we report that m6A plays essential roles during oocyte and follicle development. Oocyte-specific inactivation of the key m6A methyltransferase Mettl3 with Gdf9-Cre caused DNA damage accumulation in oocytes, defective follicle development, and abnormal ovulation. Mechanistically, combined RNA-seq and m6A methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) data from oocytes revealed, that we found METTL3 targets Itsn2 for m6A modification and then enhances its stability to influence the oocytes meiosis. Taken together, our findings highlight the crucial roles of mRNA m6A modification in follicle development and coordination of RNA stabilization during oocyte growth.
Triple-negative breast cancer cells rely on kinase-independent functions of CDK8 to evade NK-cell-mediated tumor surveillance
Authors: Knab Vanessa Maria , Gotthardt Dagmar , Klein Klara , Grausenburger Reinhard , Heller Gerwin , Menzl Ingeborg , Prinz Daniela , Trifinopoulos Jana , List Julia , Fux Daniela , Witalisz-Siepracka Agnieszka , Sexl Veronika
Published: October 2021

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive malignant disease that is responsible for approximately 15% of breast cancers. The standard of care relies on surgery and chemotherapy but the prognosis is poor and there is an urgent need for new therapeutic strategies. Recent in silico studies have revealed an inverse correlation between recurrence-free survival and the level of cyclin-dependent kinase 8 (CDK8) in breast cancer patients. CDK8 is known to have a role in natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxicity, but its function in TNBC progression and immune cell recognition or escape has not been investigated. We have used a murine model of orthotopic breast cancer to study the tumor-intrinsic role of CDK8 in TNBC. Knockdown of CDK8 in TNBC cells impairs tumor regrowth upon surgical removal and prevents metastasis. In the absence of CDK8, the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is impaired and immune-mediated tumor-cell clearance is facilitated. CDK8 drives EMT in TNBC cells in a kinase-independent manner. In vivo experiments have confirmed that CDK8 is a crucial regulator of NK-cell-mediated immune evasion in TNBC. The studies also show that CDK8 is involved in regulating the checkpoint inhibitor programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1). The CDK8–PD-L1 axis is found in mouse and human TNBC cells, underlining the importance of CDK8-driven immune cell evasion in these highly aggressive breast cancer cells. Our data link CDK8 to PD-L1 expression and provide a rationale for investigating the possibility of CDK8-directed therapy for TNBC.
ARID1A deficiency weakens BRG1-RAD21 interaction that jeopardizes chromatin compactness and drives liver cancer cell metastasis
Authors: Shang Xue-Ying , Shi Yi , He Dan-Dan , Wang Lan , Luo Qing , Deng Chuan-Huai , Qu Yu-Lan , Wang Na , Han Ze-Guang
Published: October 2021

ARID1A, encoding a subunit of SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex, is widely recognized as a tumor suppressor gene in multiple tumor types including liver cancer. Previous studies have demonstrated that ARID1A deficiency can cause liver cancer metastasis, possibly due to the altered chromatin organization, however the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. To address the effect of Arid1a deficiency on chromatin organization, we generated chromatin interaction matrices, and exploited the conformation changes upon Arid1a depletion in hepatocytes. Our results demonstrated that Arid1a deficiency induced A/B compartment switching, topologically associated domain (TAD) remodeling, and decrease of chromatin loops. Further mechanism studies revealed that ATPase BRG1 of SWI/SNF complex could physically interact with RAD21, a structural subunit of chromatin architectural element cohesin; whereas ARID1A deficiency significantly diminished the coupled BRG1-RAD21. Interestingly, the tumor-associated genes within the switched compartments were differentially expressed depending upon Arid1a depletion or not. As a consequence of ARID1A deficiency-induced conformational alteration, the dysregulation of some genes such as PMP22 and GSC, promoted the invasion capacity of liver cancer cells. This study provides an insight into liver cancer tumorigenesis and progression related to ARID1A mutations.
Three-dimensional assessment of posterior capsule–intraocular lens interaction with and without primary posterior capsulorrhexis: an intraindividual randomized trial
Authors: Yu Mengting , Huang Yue , Wang Yingbin , Xiao Suzhen , Wu Xinna , Wu Wenjie
Published: October 2021

Purpose

To assess the morphologic and clinical features of posterior capsule-intraocular lens (IOL) interaction following cataract surgery with and without primary posterior continuous curvilinear capsulorrhexis (PPCCC) at a three-dimensional (3-D) level using Scheimpflug imaging.

Methods

This prospective intraindividual randomized comparative study comprised 56 patients (112 eyes) with age-related cataract who had bilateral cataract surgery and hydrophobic acrylic IOLs implantation. In randomized order, cataract surgery with PPCCC was performed in 1 eye (PPCCC group), and the posterior capsule was left intact in the fellow eye (NPCCC group). Scheimpflug imaging containing 25 images distributed in 360° was taken 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months postoperatively.

Results

46 patients completed 3 months follow-up. Posterior capsule–IOL interaction can be morphologically classified into two types including complete adhesion and floppy shape in PPCCC group, and six types including full area wave, full area flat, concentric ring wave, concentric ring flat, sector, and complete adhesion in NPCCC group. The adhesion index (AI), defined as the proportion of complete adhesion of posterior capsule–IOL in 25 cross-section tomograms, was 0.45 ± 0.45, 0.79 ± 0.37, 0.92 ± 0.26 and 1.00 ± 0.00 in PPCCC group, while 0.05 ± 0.18, 0.41 ± 0.47, 0.87 ± 0.34, and 0.96 ± 0.21 in NPCCC group at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month and 3 months postoperatively, respectively (p = 0.001, 0.001, 0.338 and 0.151).

Conclusions

3-D Scheimpflug imaging was favorable in observing of posterior capsule–IOL interaction. Faster posterior capsule adhesion to the IOL was found in PPCCC group than in NPCCC group.
Synthesis, structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of a series of novel low melting salts without alkyl groups
Authors: Yu Shan-Shan , Zhao Hai-Rong , Shi Jian-Han , Zhang Hui , Duan Hai-Bao
Published: October 2021

A series of 1-aminopyridinium base derivative ionic liquids without alkyl groups were synthesized. Hirshfeld surface analysis was used to understand the intricacies of interactions.
Robust nanosheet-assembled Al2O3-supported Ni catalysts for the dry reforming of methane: the effect of nickel content on the catalytic performance and carbon formation
Authors: Zhang Shuangshuang , Yang Tao , Yu Jun , Zhan Wangcheng , Wang Li , Guo Yun , Guo Yanglong
Published: October 2021

Nanosheet-assembled Al2O3 for loading Ni were successfully prepared. Enhancing Ni loading decreases the Ni dispersion and the interaction between Ni and support. 5%-Ni/(NA-Al2O3) catalyst possesses an excellent activity and coke resistance for dry reforming of methane.
Mechanism analysis and mitigation strategies for oscillatory instability of synchronous generators affected by voltage source converters
Authors: Xue Yicheng , Wang Guoteng , Zhang Zheren , Xu Zheng
Published: October 2021

The electric power systems are experiencing a transformation to be characterized by power electronic devices, for example, voltage source converters (VSCs). However, the large‐capacity VSC will interact with the synchronous generators (SGs) and could lead to low‐frequency oscillation (LFO). It becomes a hurdle for the secure and stable operation of modern electric power systems. Therefore, this paper analyses the oscillatory instability mechanism of the SG with the penetration of grid‐forming (GFM) and grid‐following (GFL) VSC. The distinctive transfer function model of the SG‐VSC system is first developed. Then, through parameter sensitivity and transfer function analysis, the impact of three types of VSC is investigated, encompassing GFM‐VSC and GFL‐VSCs with two conventional reactive control schemes. It proves that the voltage control of the VSC can be detrimental to the damping torque of the SG. According to the theoretical analysis, a supplementary compensator is proposed to suppress the LFO induced by the VSC. Finally, case studies in a two‐area test system validate the analytical results and robustness of the proposed enhancement method.