bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biometrics-Based Generation of Diffie-Hellman Key Exchange Parameters
Authors: Kovačević Aldin , Saračević Muzafer , Hasic Amor
Published: October 2024

When two parties need to securely communicate over an insecure channel,  Diffie-Hellman is often employed as the key exchange algorithm. This paper presents two novel approaches to generating Diffie-Hellman parameters for key exchange based on user biometrics, namely their fingerprint data. Fingerprint templates are extracted as bit strings via a fingerprint scanner and later used as inputs. In one approach, the whole fingerprint template is utilized as a user’s private key. In the second approach, fingerprint data is scrambled into smaller chunks and rearranged into two strings that serve as the user’s private key and the basis for prime p. Both approaches were implemented and tested experimentally. After analysis, the second approach that uses scrambled fingerprint data shows better execution times and improved security and usability considerations.
Discovering Root Causal Genes with High Throughput Perturbations
Authors: Strobl Eric V , Gamazon Eric
Published: October 2024

Root causal gene expression levels – or
root causal genes
for short – correspond to the initial changes to gene expression that generate patient symptoms as a downstream effect. Identifying root causal genes is critical towards developing treatments that modify disease near its onset, but no existing algorithms attempt to identify root causal genes from data. RNA-sequencing (RNA-seq) data introduces challenges such as measurement error, high dimensionality and non-linearity that compromise accurate estimation of root causal effects even with state-of-the-art approaches. We therefore instead leverage Perturb-seq, or high throughput perturbations with single cell RNA-seq readout, to learn the causal order between the genes. We then transfer the causal order to bulk RNA-seq and identify root causal genes specific to a given patient for the first time using a novel statistic. Experiments demonstrate large improvements in performance. Applications to macular degeneration and multiple sclerosis also reveal root causal genes that lie on known pathogenic pathways, delineate patient subgroups and implicate a newly defined omnigenic root causal model.
Reconstructing the evolutionary history of freshwater fishes (Nemacheilidae) across Eurasia since early Eocene
Authors: Šlechtová Vendula , Dvořák Tomáš , Freyhof Jörg , Kottelat Maurice , Levin Boris , Golubtsov Alexander , Šlechta Vlastimil , Bohlen Jörg
Published: October 2024

Eurasia has undergone substantial tectonic, geological, and climatic changes throughout the Cenozoic era, primarily associated with tectonic plate collisions and a global cooling trend. The evolution of present-day biodiversity unfolded in this dynamic environment, characterised by intricate interactions of abiotic factors. However, comprehensive, large-scale reconstructions illustrating the extent of these influences are lacking. We reconstructed the evolutionary history of the freshwater fish family Nemacheilidae across Eurasia and spanning most of the Cenozoic era. Molecular phylogeny uncovered six major clades within the family, along with numerous unresolved taxonomic issues. Dating of cladogenetic events and ancestral range estimation traced the origin of Nemacheilidae to Indochina around 48 million years ago. Subsequently, one branch of Nemacheilidae colonised eastern, central, and northern Asia, as well as Europe, while another branch expanded into the Burmese region, the Indian subcontinent, the Near East, and northeast Africa. These expansions were facilitated by tectonic connections, favourable climatic conditions, and orogenic processes. Conversely, aridification emerged as the primary cause of extinction events. Our study marks the first comprehensive reconstruction of the evolution of Eurasian freshwater biodiversity on a continental scale and across deep geological time.
Amidase and Lysozyme Dual Functions in TseP Reveal a New Family of Chimeric Effectors in the Type VI Secretion System
Authors: Wang Zeng-Hang , An Ying , Zhao Ting , Pei Tong-Tong , Wang Dora Yuping , Liang Xiaoye , Qin Wenming , Dong Tao
Published: October 2024

Peptidoglycan (PG) serves as an essential target for antimicrobial development. An overlooked reservoir of antimicrobials lies in the form of PG-hydrolyzing enzymes naturally produced for polymicrobial competition, particularly those associated with the type VI secretion system (T6SS). Here we report that a T6SS effector TseP, from
Aeromonas dhakensis
, represents a family of effectors with dual amidase-lysozyme activities.
In vitro
PG-digestion coupled with LC-MS analysis revealed the N-domain’s amidase activity, which is neutralized by either catalytic mutations or the presence of the immunity protein TsiP. The N-domain, but not the C-domain, of TseP is sufficient to restore T6SS secretion in T6SS-defective mutants, underscoring its critical structural role. Using pull-down and secretion assays, we showed that these two domains interact directly with a carrier protein VgrG2 and can be secreted separately. Homologs in
Aeromonas hydrophila
and
Pseudomonas syringae
exhibited analogous dual functions. Additionally, N- and C-domains display distinctive GC contents, suggesting an evolutionary fusion event. By altering the surface charge through structural-guided design, we engineered the TseP
C4+
effector that successfully lyses otherwise resistant
Bacillus subtilis
cells, enabling the T6SS to inhibit
B. subtilis
in a contact-independent manner. This research uncovers TseP as a new family of bifunctional chimeric effectors targeting PG, offering a potential strategy to harness these proteins in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.
Loss function of tumor suppressor FRMD8 confers resistance to tamoxifen therapy via a dual mechanism
Authors: Wu Weijie , Yu Miao , Li Qianchen , Zhao Yiqian , Zhang Lei , Sun Yi , Wang Zhenbin , Gong Yuqing , Wang Wenjing , Liu Chenying , Zhang Jing , Tang Yan , Xu Xiaojie , Guo Xiaojing , Zhan Jun , Zhang Hongquan
Published: October 2024

Approximately 40% ERα-positive breast cancer patients suffer from therapeutic resistance to tamoxifen. Although reduced ERα level is the major cause of tamoxifen resistance, the underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we report that FRMD8 raises the level of ERα at both transcriptional and post-translational layers. FRMD8 deficiency in
MMTV-Cre
+
;

Frmd8
fl/fl

;
PyMT
mice accelerates mammary tumor growth and loss of luminal phenotype, and confers tamoxifen resistance. Single-cell RNA profiling reveals that Frmd8 loss decreases the proportion of hormone-sensing differentiated epithelial cells and downregulates the levels of ERα. Mechanically, on one hand, loss of FRMD8 inhibits
ESR1
transcription via suppressing the expression of FOXO3A, a transcription factor of
ESR1
. On the other hand, FRMD8 interacts both with ERα and UBE3A, and disrupts the interaction of UBE3A with ERα, thereby blocking UBE3A-mediated ERα degradation. In breast cancer patients,
FRMD8
gene promoter is found hypermethylated and low level of FRMD8 predicts poor prognosis. Therefore, FRMD8 is an important regulator of ERα and may control therapeutic sensitivity to tamoxifen in ERα-positive breast cancer patients.
HIV integrase compacts viral DNA into biphasic condensates
Authors: Kolbeck Pauline J , de Jager Marjolein , Gallano Margherita , Brouns Tine , Bekaert Ben , Frederickx Wout , Konrad Sebastian F , Van Belle Siska , Christ Frauke , De Feyter Steven , Debyser Zeger , Filion Laura , Lipfert Jan , Vanderlinden Willem
Published: October 2024

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infects non-dividing cells and its genome must be compacted to enter the cell nucleus. Here, we show that the viral enzyme integrase (IN) compacts HIV DNA mimetics
in vitro
. Under physiological conditions, IN-compacted genomes are consistent in size with those found for pre-integration complexes in infected cells. Compaction occurs in two stages: first IN tetramers bridge DNA strands and assemble into “rosette” structures that consist of a nucleo-protein core and extruding bare DNA. In a second stage, the extruding DNA loops condense onto the rosette core to form a disordered and viscoelastic outer layer. Notably, the core complex is susceptible towards IN inhibitors, whereas the diffuse outer layer is not. Together, our data suggest that IN has a structural role in viral DNA compaction and raise the possibility to develop inhibitors that target IN-DNA interactions in disordered condensates.
Crystal structure and catalytic mechanism of PL35 family glycosaminoglycan lyases with an ultrabroad substrate spectrum
Authors: Wei Lin , Cao Hai-Yan , Zou Ruyi , Du Min , Zhang Qingdong , Lu Danrong , Xu Xiangyu , Xu Yingying , Wang Wenshuang , Chen Xiu-Lan , Zhang Yu-Zhong , Li Fuchuan
Published: October 2024

Recently, a new class of glycosaminoglycan (GAG) lyases (GAGases) belonging to PL35 family has been discovered with an ultrabroad substrate spectrum that can degrade three types of uronic acid-containing GAGs (hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate) or even alginate. In this study, the structures of GAGase II from
Spirosoma fluviale
and GAGase VII from
Bacteroides intestinalis
DSM 17393 were determined at 1.9 and 2.4 Å resolution, respectively, and their catalytic mechanism was investigated by the site-directed mutant of their crucial residues and molecular docking assay. Structural analysis showed that GAGase II and GAGase VII consist of an N-terminal (α/α)
7
toroid multidomain and a C-terminal two-layered β-sheet domain with Mn
2+
. Notably, although GAGases share similar folds and catalytic mechanisms with some GAG lyases and alginate lyases, they exhibit higher structural homology with alginate lyases than GAG lyases, which may present a crucial structural evidence for the speculation that GAG lyases with (α/α)
n
toroid and antiparallel β-sheet structures arrived by a divergent evolution from alginate lyases with the same folds. Overall, this study not only solved the structure of PL35 GAG lyases for the first time and investigated their catalytic mechanism, especially the reason why GAGase III can additionally degrade alginate, but also provided a key clue in the divergent evolution of GAG lyases that originated from alginate lyases.
Paracrine rescue of MYR1-deficient Toxoplasma gondii mutants reveals limitations of pooled in vivo CRISPR screens
Authors: Torelli Francesca , da Fonseca Diogo M , Butterworth Simon , Young Joanna C , Treeck Moritz
Published: October 2024

Toxoplasma gondii
is an intracellular parasite that subverts host cell functions via secreted virulence factors. Up to 70% of parasite-controlled changes in the host transcriptome rely on the MYR1 protein, which is required for the translocation of secreted proteins into the host cell. Mice infected with MYR1 knock-out (KO) strains survive infection, supporting a paramount function of MYR1-dependent secreted proteins in
Toxoplasma
virulence and proliferation. However, we have previously shown that MYR1 mutants have no growth defect in pooled
in vivo
CRISPR-Cas9 screens in mice, suggesting that the presence of parasites that are wild-type at the
myr1
locus in pooled screens can rescue the phenotype. Here, we demonstrate that MYR1 is not required for the survival in IFN-γ-activated murine macrophages, and that parasites lacking MYR1 are able to expand during the onset of infection. While ΔMYR1 parasites have restricted growth in single-strain murine infections, we show that the phenotype is rescued by co-infection with wild-type (WT) parasites
in vivo
, independent of host functional adaptive immunity or key pro-inflammatory cytokines. These data show that the major function of MYR1-dependent secreted proteins is not to protect the parasite from clearance within infected cells. Instead, MYR-dependent proteins generate a permissive niche in a paracrine manner, which rescues ΔMYR1 parasites within a pool of CRISPR mutants in mice. Our results highlight an important limitation of otherwise powerful
in vivo
CRISPR screens and point towards key functions for MYR1-dependent
Toxoplasma
-host interactions beyond the infected cell.
A septo-hypothalamic-medullary circuit directs stress-induced analgesia
Authors: Shah Devanshi Piyush , Sharma Pallavi Raj , Agarwal Rachit , Barik Arnab
Published: October 2024

Stress is a potent modulator of pain. Specifically, acute stress due to physical restraint induces stress-induced analgesia (SIA). However, where and how acute stress and pain pathways interface in the brain are poorly understood. Here, we describe how the dorsal lateral septum (dLS), a forebrain limbic nucleus, facilitates SIA through its downstream targets in the lateral hypothalamic area (LHA) of mice. Taking advantage of transsynaptic viral-genetic, optogenetic, and chemogenetic techniques, we show that the dLS→LHA circuitry is sufficient to drive analgesia and is required for SIA. Further, our results reveal that the dLS→LHA pathway is opioid-dependent and modulates pain through the pro-nociceptive neurons in the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM). Remarkably, we found that the inhibitory dLS neurons are recruited specifically when the mice struggle to escape under restraint and, in turn, inhibit excitatory LHA neurons. As a result, the RVM neurons downstream of LHA are disengaged, thus suppressing nociception. Together, we delineate a poly-synaptic pathway that can transform escape behavior in mice under restraint to acute stress into analgesia.
Phytochemical Profiling and Nutraceutical Benefits of Methanol Leaf Extracts from Datura alba ness
Authors: Ovili-Odili Blessing Zeinab , Adienbo Olaghaguo Macstephen , Daubry Tarela Melish Elias , Chinko Bruno Chukwuemeka
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Species of the Datura plant have demonstrated significant pharmacological benefits in combating various diseases over the past decade. However, little information is available on Datura alba ness (DAN), and no studies have yet reported its proximate composition or characterized its phytochemical components. This study aims to investigate the nutritional, phytochemical and bioactive properties of Datura alba ness.
Materials and Methods: Fresh leaves of Datura alba ness were collected from Abua Odua local government area of Rivers State, Nigeria and properly identified and authenticated. The fresh leaves were subjected to proximate analysis using standard protocols while the dried leaves were extracted using methanol by the method of cold maceration to obtain methanolic extract of Datura alba ness (MEDAN). The MEDAN was further subjected to phytochemical screening to obtain the various phytochemicals and Gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis for detailed identification and characterization of the various bioactive compounds.
Results: Proximate analysis of fresh leaves of  DAN showed the presence of moisture (60.4%), crude protein (21.9%), carbohydrate (7.6%), crude fibre (4.77%), ash (4.17%) and fat (1.19%) while the phytochemical screening revealed the presence of flavonoids (49.14%), alkaloids (19.16%), tannins 1(12.19%), saponins (11.72%), phenols (5.33%), cardiac glycosides (1.91%), oxalates (0.43%) and phytates (0.43%). Also, the GC-MS analysis of MEDAN identified twenty-nine (29) active compounds with four (4) observed as the most abundant (with area concentration >10%). They include Bis (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (15.97%), 13-hexyloxacyclotridec-10-en-2-one (14.26%), n-hexadecanoic acid (12.87%) and Gamma.-Sitosterol (10.77).
Conclusion: The identification of various nutrients, compounds, and bioactive substances through proximate, phytochemical, and GC-MS analysis of fresh leaves and methanol extract of Datura alba ness highlights its potential as a supplement and therapeutic agent. These findings suggest that Datura alba ness contains numerous bioactive compounds that may offer effective treatments for conditions related to oxidative stress, nervous system disorders, tissue damage, inflammation, and bacterial infections.
Present Status Of Trace Elements And Heavy Metals In AyurvedicMedicines
Authors: Bajpai Dr. Rita , Kaushik Neelam
Published: October 2024

The therapeutic benefits of Ayurvedic medicines are historically well known. Sometimes the concentration of trace and heavy metals can vary depending on their geographical sources, whichcan cause extremely harmful effects. Thus, one of the most important topics nowadays is the assessment of toxicity and safety of these Ayurvedic medicines. The presence of these constituents in the soil of the study area can be linked to the formation of toxicants of these harmful elements. They should be used with caution in the field as their uncontrolled ingestion can have harmful dangerous consequences on their consumers. Analysis by atomic absorption spectrometry allowedthe detection of trace and heavy metals. This paper discusses the current status of trace elements and heavy metals in Ayurvedic medicine. Along with this, the effects of trace elements and heavymetals on human health have also been explained. This research paper also contains about in whatway to determination of Trace element and heavy metal from ayurvedic medicines specially “Ras
Induction of a novel isoform of the lncRNA HOTAIR in Claudin‐low breast cancer cells attached to extracellular matrix
Authors: Li Miao , Li Xi , Zhuang Yan , Flemington Erik K. , Lin Zhen , Shan Bin
Published: August 2017

Elevated overexpression of the lncRNA HOTAIR mediates invasion and metastasis in breast cancer. In an apparent paradox, we observed low expression of HOTAIR in the invasive Claudin‐low MDA‐MB‐231 and Hs578T cells in two‐dimensional culture (2D). However, HOTAIR expression exhibited robust induction in laminin‐rich extracellular matrix‐based three‐dimensional organotypic culture (lrECM 3D) over that in 2D culture. Induction of HOTAIR required intact ECM signaling, namely integrin α2 and SRC kinase activity. Moreover, invasive growth was suppressed by HOTAIR‐specific siRNA. Induction of HOTAIR in lrECM 3D culture resulted from the activation of a novel isoform of HOTAIR (HOTAIR‐N) whose transcription is started from the first intron of the HOXC11 gene. The HOTAIR‐N promoter exhibited increased trimethylation of histone H3 lysine 4, a histone marker of active transcription, and binding of BRD4, a reader of transcriptionally active histone markers. Inhibition of BRD4 substantially reduced the expression of HOTAIR in lrECM 3D culture. In summary, our results indicate that HOTAIR expression is activated by BRD4 binding to a novel HOTAIR‐N promoter in Claudin‐low breast cancer cells that are attached to ECM. Induction of HOTAIR is required for invasive growth of Claudin‐low breast cancer cells in lrECM 3D culture.
Relationship between electron field‐aligned anisotropy and dawn‐dusk magnetic field: Nine years of Cluster observations in the Earth magnetotail
Authors: Yushkov E. , Petrukovich A. , Artemyev A. , Nakamura R.
Published: August 2017

We investigate the distribution and possible origins of thermal anisotropic electrons in the Earth's magnetotail, using 9 years of Cluster observations. We mainly focus on relation between electron anisotropy and Bz and By magnetic field components (in GSM coordinates). The anisotropy of electron population is characterized by temperature ratio T∥/T⊥ and by the maximum of phase space density ratio F∥/F⊥ (∥ and ⊥ are relative to the background magnetic field). The population identified by large F∥/F⊥ is organized as short‐time (dozens of seconds) bursts with enhanced F∥ and can be observed even in the plasma sheet with small T∥/T⊥. The thermal anisotropy T∥/T⊥ is larger for time intervals characterized by stronger Bz and By: the strong By corresponds to the T∥/T⊥ peak around the magnetotail neutral plane Bx=0, whereas the strong Bz corresponds to larger T∥/T⊥ with a flat profile across the magnetotail. There is a dawn‐dusk asymmetry: large T∥/T⊥ corresponds mostly to strong Bz at the dusk flank and to strong By at the dawn flank. Using these differences of the electron anisotropy dependence on By and Bz, we discuss two possible mechanisms responsible for the anisotropy formation.
Plasma Transport Driven by the Three‐Dimensional Kelvin‐Helmholtz Instability
Authors: Ma Xuanye , Delamere Peter , Otto Antonius , Burkholder Brandon
Published: August 2017

It has been well demonstrated that the nonlinear Kelvin‐Helmholtz (KH) instability plays a critical role for the solar wind interaction with the Earth's magnetosphere. Although the two‐dimensional KH instability has been fully explored during the past decades, more and more studies show the fundamental difference between the two‐ and three‐dimensional KH instability. For northward interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) conditions, the nonlinear KH wave that is localized in the vicinity of the equatorial plane can dramatically bend the magnetic field line, generating strong antiparallel magnetic field components at high latitudes in both North and South Hemispheres, which satisfy the onset condition for magnetic reconnection. This high‐latitude double reconnection process can exchange the portion of magnetosheath and magnetospheric flux tubes between those two reconnection sites. This study used a high‐resolution 3‐D magnetohydrodynamic simulation to demonstrate that nonlinear KH waves can generate a large amount of double‐reconnected flux during the northward IMF condition, which can efficiently transport the plasma with a high diffusion coefficient of 1 × 1010 m2 s−1 for typical magnetopause conditions at the Earth. The presence of the magnetic field component along the shear flow direction not only decreases the KH growth rate but also causes north‐south asymmetry, which generates more open flux and reduces the efficiency of the plasma transport process.
Energy budget and mechanisms of cold ion heating in asymmetric magnetic reconnection
Authors: Toledo‐Redondo Sergio , André Mats , Khotyaintsev Yuri V. , Lavraud Benoit , Vaivads Andris , Graham Daniel B. , Li Wenya , Perrone Denise , Fuselier Stephen , Gershman Daniel J. , Aunai Nicolas , Dargent Jérémy , Giles Barbara , Le Contel Olivier , Lindqvist Per‐Arne , Ergun Robert E. , Russell Christopher T. , Burch James L.
Published: August 2017

Cold ions (few tens of eV) of ionospheric origin are commonly observed on the magnetospheric side of the Earth's dayside magnetopause. As a result, they can participate in magnetic reconnection, changing locally the reconnection rate and being accelerated and heated. We present four events where cold ion heating was observed by the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission, associated with the magnetospheric Hall E field region of magnetic reconnection. For two of the events the cold ion density was small compared to the magnetosheath density, and the cold ions were heated roughly to the same temperature as magnetosheath ions inside the exhaust. On the other hand, for the other two events the cold ion density was comparable to the magnetosheath density and the cold ion heating observed was significantly smaller. Magnetic reconnection converts magnetic energy into particle energy, and ion heating is known to dominate the energy partition. We find that at least 10–25% of the energy spent by reconnection into ion heating went into magnetospheric cold ion heating. The total energy budget for cold ions may be even higher when properly accounting for the heavier species, namely helium and oxygen. Large E field fluctuations are observed in this cold ion heating region, i.e., gradients and waves, that are likely the source of particle energization.
Crustal Structure Beneath India and Tibet: New Constraints From Inversion of Receiver Functions
Authors: Singh Arun , Ravi Kumar M. , Mohanty Debasis D. , Singh Chandrani , Biswas Rahul , Srinagesh D.
Published: August 2017

The Indian subcontinent comprises geological terranes of varied age and structural character. In this study, we provide new constraints to existing crustal models by inverting the P‐to‐s receiver functions (RFs) at 317 broadband seismic stations. Inversion results fill crucial gaps in existing velocity models (CRUST1.0 and SEAPS) by capturing regions which are less represented. The final model produced is much more heterogeneous and is able to capture the structural variations between closely spaced seismic stations. In comparison to the global models, major differences are seen for seismic stations located over various rift zones (e.g., Godavari, Narmada, and Cambay) and those close to the coastal regions where transition from oceanic to continental crust is expected to create drastic changes in the crustal configuration. Seismic images are produced along various profiles using 49,682 individual RFs recorded at 442 seismic stations. Lateral variations captured using migrated images across the Himalayan collisional front revealed the hitherto elusive southern extent of the Moho and intracrustal features south of the Main Central Thrust (MCT). Poisson's ratio and crustal thickness estimates obtained using H‐k stacking technique and inversion of RFs are grossly similar lending credence to the robustness of inversions. An updated crustal thickness map produced using 1,525 individual data points from controlled source seismics and RFs reveals a (a) thickened crust (>55 km) at the boundary of Dharwar Craton and Southern Granulite Terrain, (b) clear difference in crustal thickness estimates between Eastern Dharwar Craton and Western Dharwar Craton, (c) thinner crust beneath Cambay Basin between southwest Deccan Volcanic Province and Delhi‐Aravalli Fold Belt, (d) thinner crust (<35 km) beneath Bengal Basin, (e) thicker crust (>40 km) beneath paleorift zones like Narmada Son Lineament and Godavari Graben, and (f) very thick crust beneath central Tibet (>65 km) with maximum lateral variations along the Himalayan collision front.
Stratigraphy and provenance of forearc sequences in the Lichi Mélange, Coastal Range: Geological records of the active Taiwan arc‐continent collision
Authors: Chen Wen‐Huang , Huang Chi‐Yue , Yan Yi , Dilek Yildirim , Chen Duofu , Wang Ming‐Huei , Zhang Xinchang , Lan Qing , Yu Mengming
Published: August 2017

The Lichi Mélange in the Coastal Range, eastern Taiwan, is considered as sheared forearc sequences. However, the age of these sequences is still uncertain, and their significance for the arc‐continent collision has been overlooked. Based on field surveys and micropaleontological analysis, four independent biostratigraphic units ranging from <8.5 to 3.0 Ma are discerned in the Lichi Mélange. These units are obviously older than the remnant forearc sequences in the east (3.4–1.2 Ma), supporting the interpretation that the Lichi Mélange arose from the shearing of the lower forearc basin sequences. The stratigraphy also suggests that the older forearc strata (<8.5–3.4 Ma) were deformed and uplifted as a bathymetric high similar to the Huatung Ridge in the western North Luzon Trough by arcward back thrusting before 3.4 Ma, while sedimentation continued in the remnant forearc basin in the east during 3.4–1.2 Ma. The older forearc strata possess vitrinite reflectance values even lower than those of the remnant forearc sequences, which also supports that they were uplifted by back thrusting and therefore did not experience significant burial. Neodymium isotope analysis shows that the <8.5–6.4 Ma forearc sediments were sourced from both the volcanic arc and the accretionary prism, indicating the emergence of the accretionary prism within <8.5–6.4 Ma. It might have resulted from the underplating of thinned continental crust and provides a good time constraint for the onset of arc‐continent collision. The post 6.4 Ma forearc sediments were mainly derived from the accretionary prism, reflecting its constant uplift and large‐scale exposure.
Differences in the hydrological cycle and sensitivity between multiscale modeling frameworks with and without a higher‐order turbulence closure
Authors: Xu Kuan‐Man , Li Zhujun , Cheng Anning , Blossey Peter N. , Stan Cristiana
Published: August 2017

Current conventional global climate models (GCMs) produce a weak increase in global‐mean precipitation with anthropogenic warming in comparison with the lower tropospheric moisture increases. The motive of this study is to understand the differences in the hydrological sensitivity between two multiscale modeling frameworks (MMFs) that arise from the different treatments of turbulence and low clouds in order to aid to the understanding of the model spread among conventional GCMs. We compare the hydrological sensitivity and its energetic constraint from MMFs with (SPCAM‐IPHOC) or without (SPCAM) an advanced higher‐order turbulence closure. SPCAM‐IPHOC simulates higher global hydrological sensitivity for the slow response but lower sensitivity for the fast response than SPCAM. Their differences are comparable to the spreads of conventional GCMs. The higher sensitivity in SPCAM‐IPHOC is associated with the higher ratio of the changes in latent heating to those in net atmospheric radiative cooling, which is further related to a stronger decrease in the Bowen ratio with warming than in SPCAM. The higher sensitivity of cloud radiative cooling resulting from the lack of low clouds in SPCAM is another major factor in contributing to the lower precipitation sensitivity. The two MMFs differ greatly in the hydrological sensitivity over the tropical lands, where the simulated sensitivity of surface sensible heat fluxes to surface warming and CO2 increase in SPCAM‐IPHOC is weaker than in SPCAM. The difference in divergences of dry static energy flux simulated by the two MMFs also contributes to the difference in land precipitation sensitivity between the two models.
Variability in mid‐depth ventilation of the western Atlantic Ocean during the last deglaciation
Authors: Voigt I. , Cruz A. P. S. , Mulitza S. , Chiessi C. M. , Mackensen A. , Lippold J. , Antz B. , Zabel M. , Zhang Y. , Barbosa C. F. , Tisserand A. A.
Published: August 2017

Negative stable carbon isotopic excursions have been observed throughout most of the mid‐depth (~1000–3000 m) Atlantic Ocean during Heinrich Stadial 1 (HS1) and the Younger Dryas (YD). Although there is an agreement that these mid‐depth excursions were in some way associated with a slowdown of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), there is still no consensus on the precise mechanism(s). Here we present benthic stable carbon and oxygen isotopic (δ13C and δ18O) records from five cores from the western equatorial Atlantic (WEA). Together with published benthic isotopic records from nearby cores, we produced a WEA depth transect (~800–2500 m). We compare HS1 and YD data from this transect with data from previously published North and South Atlantic cores and demonstrate that the largest negative δ13C excursions occurred in the WEA during these times. Moreover, our benthic δ18O records require the presence of two water masses flowing from the Southern Ocean, bisected by a Northern Component Water (NCW). Given that δ18O is a conservative water mass tracer, we suggest that δ13C was decoupled from water mass composition and does not correspond to simple alternations between northern and southern sourced waters. Instead, δ13C behaved non‐conservatively during HS1 and the YD. Consistently with our new 231Pa/230Th record from the WEA transect, that allowed the reconstruction of AMOC strength, we hypothesize that the negative δ13C excursions reflect an increase in the residence time of NCW in response to a weakened AMOC, allowing for a marked accumulation of 13C‐depleted respired carbon at the mid‐depth WEA.
Scaling Effects on the Electrochemical Stimulation Performance of Au, Pt, and PEDOT:PSS Electrocorticography Arrays
Authors: Ganji Mehran , Tanaka Atsunori , Gilja Vikash , Halgren Eric , Dayeh Shadi A.
Published: August 2017

The efficacy of electrical brain stimulation in combatting neurodegenerative diseases and initiating function is expected to be significantly enhanced with the development of smaller scale microstimulation electrodes and refined stimulation protocols. These benefits cannot be realized without a thorough understanding of scaling effects on electrochemical charge injection characteristics. This study fabricates and characterizes the electrochemical stimulation capabilities of Au, Pt, poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS/Au), and PEDOT:PSS/Pt electrode arrays in the 20–2000 µm diameter range. This study observes substantial enhancement in charge injection capacity up to 9.5× for PEDOT:PSS microelectrodes compared to metal ones, and 88% lower required power for injecting the same charge density. These significant benefits are strongest for electrode diameters below 200 µm. Detailed quantitative analyses are provided, enabling optimization of charge injection capacity with potential bias and symmetric and asymmetric pulse width engineering for all diameters. These systematic analyses inform the optimal design for acute and potentially chronic implants in regards to safety and clinically effective stimulation protocols, ensure the longevity of the electrodes below critical electrochemical limits of stimulation, and demonstrate that the material choice and pulse design can lead to more energy efficiency stimulation protocols that are of critical importance for fully implanted devices.
Multifunctional Neural Interfaces for Closed‐Loop Control of Neural Activity
Authors: Chapman Christopher A. R. , Goshi Noah , Seker Erkin
Published: August 2017

Microfabrication and nanotechnology have significantly expanded the technological capabilities for monitoring and modulating neural activity with the goal of studying the nervous system and managing neurological disorders. This feature article initially provides a tutorial‐like review of the prominent technologies for enabling this two‐way communication with the nervous system via electrical, chemical, and optical means. Following this overview, the article discusses emerging high‐throughput methods for identifying device attributes that enhance the functionality of interfaces. The discussion then extends into opportunities and challenges in integrating different device functions within a small footprint with the goal of closed‐loop control of neural activity with high spatiotemporal resolution and reduced adverse tissue response. The article concludes with an outline of future directions in the development and applications of multifunctional neural interfaces.
Carrier‐Type Modulation and Mobility Improvement of Thin MoTe2
Authors: Qu Deshun , Liu Xiaochi , Huang Ming , Lee Changmin , Ahmed Faisal , Kim Hyoungsub , Ruoff Rodney S. , Hone James , Yoo Won Jong
Published: August 2017

A systematic modulation of the carrier type in molybdenum ditelluride (MoTe2) field‐effect transistors (FETs) is described, through rapid thermal annealing (RTA) under a controlled O2 environment (p‐type modulation) and benzyl viologen (BV) doping (n‐type modulation). Al2O3 capping is then introduced to improve the carrier mobilities and device stability. MoTe2 is found to be ultrasensitive to O2 at elevated temperatures (250 °C). Charge carriers of MoTe2 flakes annealed via RTA at various vacuum levels are tuned between predominantly pristine n‐type ambipolar, symmetric ambipolar, unipolar p‐type, and degenerate‐like p‐type. Changes in the MoTe2‐transistor performance are confirmed to originate from the physical and chemical absorption and dissociation of O2, especially at tellurium vacancy sites. The electron branch is modulated by varying the BV dopant concentrations and annealing conditions. Unipolar n‐type MoTe2 FETs with a high on–off ratio exceeding 106 are achieved under optimized doping conditions. By introducing Al2O3 capping, carrier field effect mobilities (41 for holes and 80 cm2 V−1 s−1 for electrons) and device stability are improved due to the reduced trap densities and isolation from ambient air. Lateral MoTe2 p–n diodes with an ideality factor of 1.2 are fabricated using the p‐ and n‐type doping technique to test the superb potential of the doping method in functional electronic device applications.
Locking and Unlocking the Molecular Spin Crossover Transition
Authors: Zhang Xin , Costa Paulo S. , Hooper James , Miller Daniel P. , N'Diaye Alpha T. , Beniwal Sumit , Jiang Xuanyuan , Yin Yuewei , Rosa Patrick , Routaboul Lucie , Gonidec Mathieu , Poggini Lorenzo , Braunstein Pierre , Doudin Bernard , Xu Xiaoshan , Enders Axel , Zurek Eva , Dowben Peter A.
Published: August 2017

The Fe(II) spin crossover complex [Fe{H2B(pz)2}2(bipy)] (pz = pyrazol‐1‐yl, bipy = 2,2′‐bipyridine) can be locked in a largely low‐spin‐state configuration over a temperature range that includes temperatures well above the thermal spin crossover temperature of 160 K. This locking of the spin state is achieved for nanometer thin films of this complex in two distinct ways: through substrate interactions with dielectric substrates such as SiO2 and Al2O3, or in powder samples by mixing with the strongly dipolar zwitterionic p‐benzoquinonemonoimine C6H2(—⋯ NH2)2(—⋯ O)2. Remarkably, it is found in both cases that incident X‐ray fluences then restore the [Fe{H2B(pz)2}2(bipy)] moiety to an electronic state characteristic of the high spin state at temperatures of 200 K to above room temperature; that is, well above the spin crossover transition temperature for the pristine powder, and well above the temperatures characteristic of light‐ or X‐ray‐induced excited‐spin‐state trapping. Heating slightly above room temperature allows the initial locked state to be restored. These findings, supported by theory, show how the spin crossover transition can be manipulated reversibly around room temperature by appropriate design of the electrostatic and chemical environment.
High‐Resolution Spin‐on‐Patterning of Perovskite Thin Films for a Multiplexed Image Sensor Array
Authors: Lee Woongchan , Lee Jongha , Yun Huiwon , Kim Joonsoo , Park Jinhong , Choi Changsoon , Kim Dong Chan , Seo Hyunseon , Lee Hakyong , Yu Ji Woong , Lee Won Bo , Kim Dae‐Hyeong
Published: August 2017

Inorganic–organic hybrid perovskite thin films have attracted significant attention as an alternative to silicon in photon‐absorbing devices mainly because of their superb optoelectronic properties. However, high‐definition patterning of perovskite thin films, which is important for fabrication of the image sensor array, is hardly accomplished owing to their extreme instability in general photolithographic solvents. Here, a novel patterning process for perovskite thin films is described: the high‐resolution spin‐on‐patterning (SoP) process. This fast and facile process is compatible with a variety of spin‐coated perovskite materials and perovskite deposition techniques. The SoP process is successfully applied to develop a high‐performance, ultrathin, and deformable perovskite‐on‐silicon multiplexed image sensor array, paving the road toward next‐generation image sensor arrays.
Revealing Minor Electrical Losses in the Interconnecting Layers of Organic Tandem Solar Cells
Authors: Prosa Mario , Li Ning , Gasparini Nicola , Bolognesi Margherita , Seri Mirko , Muccini Michele , Brabec Christoph J.
Published: August 2017

The interconnection layer (ICL) of organic multijunction solar cells represents one of the most delicate parts to ensure an efficient device operation. In view of pushing the efficiencies toward the theoretical limit, the individuation of minor losses affecting the ICL operation is of crucial importance. However, the difficulties arising from its position within the complex device structure typically hamper an accurate and selective investigation of the ICL. Here, a method based on the analysis of the photo‐generated current density–voltage (Jph–V) response of solar cells, in the region of bias over the open‐circuit voltage, is proved to individuate minor electrical losses within the ICL. Interestingly, the proposed method is demonstrated to effectively operate on tandem substructures, where different ICLs are investigated through the combination of materials having diverse characteristics. Furthermore, the use of a complementary investigation technique based on electroluminescence (EL) analysis allows to distinguish the specific nature of the electrical losses. The combination of Jph–V and EL analyses represents an elegant and advanced approach to shed light on the quality of ICLs in tandem substructures by avoiding the fabrication of the more complex tandem architecture.
A Low Cost Desktop Electrochemical Metal 3D Printer
Authors: Chen Xiaolong , Liu Xinhua , Childs Peter , Brandon Nigel , Wu Billy
Published: August 2017

Additive manufacturing (AM), or 3D printing as it is more commonly known, is the process of creating 3D objects from digital models through the sequential deposition of material in layers. Electrochemical 3D printing is a relatively new form of AM that creates metallic structures through electrochemical reduction of metal ions from solutions onto conductive substrates. The advantage of this process is that a wide range of materials and alloys can be deposited under ambient conditions without thermal damage and more importantly at low cost, as this does not require expensive laser optics or inert gas environments. Other advantages include the fact that this process can be both additive and subtractive through reversal of potential allowing for recycling of components through electrochemical dissolution. However, one main limitation of this technology is speed. Here, a novel electrochemical 3D printer design is proposed using a meniscus confinement approach which demonstrates deposition rates three orders of magnitude higher than equivalent systems due to improved mass transport characteristics afforded through a mechanical electrolyte entrainment mechanism. Printed copper structures exhibit a polycrystalline nature, with decreasing the grain size as the potential is increased resulting in a higher Vickers hardness and electronic resistivity.
Hierarchical Multicomponent Electrode with Interlaced Ni(OH)2 Nanoflakes Wrapped Zinc Cobalt Sulfide Nanotube Arrays for Sustainable High‐Performance Supercapacitors
Authors: Syed Junaid Ali , Ma Jun , Zhu Baogang , Tang Shaochun , Meng Xiangkang
Published: August 2017

High energy density, fast recharging ability, and sustained cycle life are the primary requisite of supercapacitors (SCs); these necessities can be fulfilled by engineering a smart current collector with hierarchical combination of different active materials. This study reports a multicomponent design of hierarchical zinc cobalt sulfide (ZCS) hollow nanotube arrays wrapped with interlaced ultrathin Ni(OH)2 nanoflakes for high‐performance electrodes. The ZCS exhibits a unique pentagonal cross‐section and a rough surface that facilitates the deposition of Ni(OH)2 nanoflakes with a thickness of 7.5 nm. The ZCS/Ni(OH)2 hierarchical electrode exhibits a high specific capacitance of 2156 F g−1 and excellent cyclic stability with 94% retention over 3000 cycles. This is attributed to enhanced redox reactions, the direct growth of arrays on 3D porous foam acting as a “superhighway” for electron transport, and the increased availability of electrochemical active sites provided by the ultrathin Ni(OH)2 flakes that also sustain the stability of the electrode by sacrificing themselves during long charge/discharge cycles. Symmetric SCs are assembled to achieve high energy density of 74.93 W h kg−1 and exhibit superior cyclic stability of 78% retention with 81% coulombic efficiency over 10 000 cycles.
Injury risk factors to farm and ranch operators in the Central United States
Authors: Jadhav Rohan , Achutan Chandran , Haynatzki Gleb , Rajaram Shireen , Rautiainen Risto
Published: August 2017

Background

This study focused on risk factors for serious injuries in farm and ranch operators in the central United States.

Methods

The Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health, in collaboration with the National Agricultural Statistics Service, sent mail surveys to 6953, 6912, and 6912 farms/ranches in 2011‐2013, respectively, covering seven Midwestern states.

Results

The average survey response rate was 35%. The average annual incidence rate (injuries/100 workers) was 6.91 for all injuries and 2.40 for serious injuries. Univariate analyses determined several demographic and farm production‐related risk factors for serious injury. Adjusted analysis showed a greater risk of serious injury for operators of age 45‐54 years (vs. 65 and higher), those who worked 75‐99% of their time (vs. less time), and those who operated larger land areas (vs. smaller).

Conclusion

The identified risk factors should be considered when targeting injury prevention programs.
Stability of Optically Injected Two‐State Quantum‐Dot Lasers
Authors: Meinecke Stefan , Lingnau Benjamin , Röhm André , Lüdge Kathy
Published: August 2017

Simultaneous two‐state lasing is a unique property of semiconductor quantum‐dot (QD) lasers. This not only changes steady‐state characteristics of the laser device but also its dynamic response to perturbations. In this paper we investigate the dynamic stability of QD lasers in an external optical injection setup. Compared to conventional single‐state laser devices, we find a strong suppression of dynamical instabilities in two‐state lasers. Furthermore, depending on the frequency and intensity of the injected light, pronounced areas of bistability between both lasing frequencies appear, which can be employed for fast optical switching in all‐optical photonic computing applications. These results emphasize the suitability of QD semiconductor lasers in future integrated optoelectronic systems where a high level of stability is required.
Preparation of ibuprofen‐loaded HDPE tubular devices for application as urinary catheters
Authors: Vieira Edna Silva , Salmoria Gean Vitor , de Mello Gindri Izabelle , Kanis Luiz Alberto
Published: August 2017

In this study, high‐density polyethylene tubes with the incorporation of ibuprofen (IBP) were investigated with a view to their application as urinary catheters. The melt extrusion process was used to prepare the urinary catheters, and the influence of the manufacturing parameters on the material properties was evaluated. Samples prepared at lower temperature resulted in a more homogeneous material with a smoother surface, lower crystallinity, and better mechanical properties. The drug release was faster in the first 4 days, due to the accumulation of the drug on the outer surface of tubes. The concentration of IBP released was similar to the drug content in commercially available topic formulations (5%). Furthermore, after 2 days of immersion, the release achieved the concentration known to inhibit bacterial growth (6 mg/mL). These characteristics indicate that this material has good potential for application in urinary catheters. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2018, 135, 45661.
Delivery of Therapeutic Proteins Using Electrospun Fibers—Recent Developments and Current Challenges
Authors: Seif Salem , Planz Viktoria , Windbergs Maike
Published: August 2017

Proteins play a vital role within the human body by regulating various functions and even serving as structural constituent of many body parts. In this context, protein‐based therapeutics have attracted a lot of attention in the last few decades as potential treatment of different diseases. Due to the steadily increasing interest in protein‐based therapeutics, different dosage forms were investigated for delivering such complex macromolecules to the human body. Here, electrospun fibers hold a great potential for embedding proteins without structural damage and for controlled release of the protein for therapeutic applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of protein‐based carrier systems using electrospun fibers, with special emphasis on discussing their potential and key challenges in developing such therapeutic strategies, along with a prospective view of anticipated future directions.