bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An efficient procedure for mining egocentric temporal motifs
Authors: Longa Antonio , Cencetti Giulia , Lepri Bruno , Passerini Andrea
Published: November 2021

Temporal graphs are structures which model relational data between entities that change over time. Due to the complex structure of data, mining statistically significant temporal subgraphs, also known as temporal motifs, is a challenging task. In this work, we present an efficient technique for extracting temporal motifs in temporal networks. Our method is based on the novel notion of egocentric temporal neighborhoods, namely multi-layer structures centered on an ego node. Each temporal layer of the structure consists of the first-order neighborhood of the ego node, and corresponding nodes in sequential layers are connected by an edge. The strength of this approach lies in the possibility of encoding these structures into a unique bit vector, thus bypassing the problem of graph isomorphism in searching for temporal motifs. This allows our algorithm to mine substantially larger motifs with respect to alternative approaches. Furthermore, by bringing the focus on the temporal dynamics of the interactions of a specific node, our model allows to mine temporal motifs which are visibly interpretable. Experiments on a number of complex networks of social interactions confirm the advantage of the proposed approach over alternative non-egocentric solutions. The egocentric procedure is indeed more efficient in revealing similarities and discrepancies among different social environments, independently of the different technologies used to collect data, which instead affect standard non-egocentric measures.
Nobody Doesn’t Like Negative Concord
Authors: Maldonado Mora , Culbertson Jennifer
Published: November 2021

Languages vary with respect to whether sentences with two negative elements give rise to double negation or negative concord meanings. We explore an influential hypothesis about what governs this variation: namely, that whether a language exhibits double negation or negative concord is partly determined by the phonological and syntactic nature of its negative marker (Zeijlstra 2004; Jespersen 1917). For example, one version of this hypothesis argues that languages with affixal negation must be negative concord (Zeijlstra 2008). We use an artificial language learning experiment to investigate whether English speakers are sensitive to the status of the negative marker when learning double negation and negative concord languages. Our findings fail to provide evidence supporting this hypothesised connection. Instead, our results suggest that learners find it easier to learn negative concord languages compared to double negation languages independently of whether the negative marker is an adverb or an affix. This is in line with evidence from natural language acquisition (Thornton et al. 2016).
Gaze-driven placement of items for proactive visual exploration
Authors: Takahashi Shigeo , Uchita Akane , Watanabe Kazuho , Arikawa Masatoshi
Published: November 2021

Recent advances in digital signage technology have improved the ability to visually select specific items within a group. Although this is due to the ability to dynamically update the display of items, the corresponding layout schemes remain a subject of research. This paper explores the sophisticated layout of items by respecting the underlying context of searching for favorite items. Our study begins by formulating the static placement of items as an optimization problem that incorporates aesthetic layout criteria as constraints. This is further extended to accommodate the dynamic placement of items for more proactive visual exploration based on the ongoing search context. Our animated layout is driven by analyzing the distribution of eye gaze through an eye-tracking device, by which we infer how the most attractive items lead to the finally wanted ones. We create a planar layout of items as a context map to establish association rules to dynamically replace existing items with new ones. For this purpose, we extract the set of important topics from a set of annotated texts associated with the items using matrix factorization. We also conduct user studies to evaluate the validity of the design criteria incorporated into both static and dynamic placement of items. After discussing the pros and cons of the proposed approach and possible themes for future research, we conclude this paper.
Physical activities for older adults: Are local co-operations of sports clubs and care partners an option to increase access?
Authors: Wolter Veronique , Dohle Miriam , Sobo Lisa
Published: November 2021

Group-based physical activity brings high and long-term added value for the participants. Especially for older adults in need of care, this development is dependent on interdisciplinary thinking and the networking of local structures. Studies underline the consideration of the communication and access options that are needed to be able to promote the target group’s health through exercise programmes. Sports clubs are repeatedly mentioned as competent partners in health promotion, but in municipal practice—possibly due to very different basic structures to the system of care—they receive less attention. The projectMoving Nursing Homes and Care Providers(2019–2022) is coordinated by the State Sports Federation of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Local sports clubs cooperate with providers of outpatient and inpatient care to start new sports programs for older adults in need of care. As part of the scientific evaluation, the perspectives involved are equally considered and their motives and needs are analysed. For this paper, four conducted qualitative interviews with representatives of sports clubs were analysed with the focus on opportunities and barriers for local partnerships between sports clubs and care. Results show structural and personal parameters that have to be looked at from the beginning. Local networks are essential for sports clubs to get in contact with potential partners and to reflect initiated processes. Although aspects of (financial) organisation is an often named topic, sports clubs have the opinion that they have the social responsibility to influence developments in their neighbourhood for all generations positively.
Homocysteine metabolism as the target for predictive medical approach, disease prevention, prognosis, and treatments tailored to the person
Authors: Koklesova Lenka , Mazurakova Alena , Samec Marek , Biringer Kamil , Samuel Samson Mathews , Büsselberg Dietrich , Kubatka Peter , Golubnitschaja Olga
Published: November 2021

Homocysteine (Hcy) metabolism is crucial for regulating methionine availability, protein homeostasis, and DNA-methylation presenting, therefore, key pathways in post-genomic and epigenetic regulation mechanisms. Consequently, impaired Hcy metabolism leading to elevated concentrations of Hcy in the blood plasma (hyperhomocysteinemia) is linked to the overproduction of free radicals, induced oxidative stress, mitochondrial impairments, systemic inflammation and increased risks of eye disorders, coronary artery diseases, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, ischemic stroke, thrombotic events, cancer development and progression, osteoporosis, neurodegenerative disorders, pregnancy complications, delayed healing processes, and poor COVID-19 outcomes, among others. This review focuses on the homocysteine metabolism impairments relevant for various pathological conditions. Innovative strategies in the framework of 3P medicine consider Hcy metabolic pathways as the specific target for in vitro diagnostics, predictive medical approaches, cost-effective preventive measures, and optimized treatments tailored to the individualized patient profiles in primary, secondary, and tertiary care.
New appetite for the monitoring of European forests
Authors: Ferretti Marco
Published: November 2021

Key message

Future international forest monitoring should build upon the existing pan-European programs.

There is a renewed interest in the monitoring of European forests. Future monitoring systems should build upon existing international programs, making use of their strengths and solving their weaknesses. This approach will result into win–win solutions for both the existing and future systems. The UNECE ICP Forests has a number of characteristics that makes it a very good and strong basis for developing an advanced international forest monitoring system.
Multimodal image and audio music transcription
Authors: de la Fuente Carlos , Valero-Mas Jose J. , Castellanos Francisco J. , Calvo-Zaragoza Jorge
Published: November 2021

Optical Music Recognition (OMR) and Automatic Music Transcription (AMT) stand for the research fields that aim at obtaining a structured digital representation from sheet music images and acoustic recordings, respectively. While these fields have traditionally evolved independently, the fact that both tasks may share the same output representation poses the question of whether they could be combined in a synergistic manner to exploit the individual transcription advantages depicted by each modality. To evaluate this hypothesis, this paper presents a multimodal framework that combines the predictions from two neural end-to-end OMR and AMT systems by considering a local alignment approach. We assess several experimental scenarios with monophonic music pieces to evaluate our approach under different conditions of the individual transcription systems. In general, the multimodal framework clearly outperforms the single recognition modalities, attaining a relative improvement close to $$40\%$$

40
%

in the best case. Our initial premise is, therefore, validated, thus opening avenues for further research in multimodal OMR-AMT transcription.
Seismic analysis of high-speed railway irregular bridge–track system considering V-shaped canyon effect
Authors: Zhu Zhihui , Tang Yongjiu , Ba Zhenning , Wang Kun , Gong Wei
Published: November 2021

To explore the effect of canyon topography on the seismic response of railway irregular bridge–track system that crosses a V-shaped canyon, seismic ground motions of the horizontal site and V-shaped canyon site were simulated through theoretical analysis with 12 earthquake records selected from the Pacific Earthquake Engineering Research Center (PEER) Strong Ground Motion Database matching the site condition of the bridge. Nonlinear seismic response analyses of an existing 11-span irregular simply supported railway bridge–track system were performed under the simulated spatially varying ground motions. The effects of the V-shaped canyon topography on the peak ground acceleration at bridge foundations and seismic responses of the bridge–track system were analyzed. Comparisons between the results of horizontal and V-shaped canyon sites show that the top relative displacement between adjacent piers at the junction of the incident side and the back side of the V-shaped site is almost two times that of the horizontal site, which also determines the seismic response of the fastener. The maximum displacement of the fastener occurs in the V-shaped canyon site and is 1.4 times larger than that in the horizontal site. Neglecting the effect of V-shaped canyon leads to the inappropriate assessment of the maximum seismic response of the irregular high-speed railway bridge–track system. Moreover, engineers should focus on the girder end to the left or right of the two fasteners within the distance of track seismic damage.
Uncertainty analysis of climate change potential assessments of five building energy renovation measures in Sweden
Authors: Farsäter Karin , Wahlström Åsa , Johansson Dennis
Published: November 2021

The aim of this study is to assess the impact of the uncertainties of life cycle inventory (LCI) data for energy use and materials in life cycle assessments of standard energy renovation measures carried out in multi-family buildings in Sweden. Five energy renovation measures were assessed with regard to their climate change potential. Modules A1–A3 and module B6 were included in the assessment and the functional unit, 1 m2 heated floor area of a renovated building fulfilling the Swedish building regulations and with a calculation period of 20 years, was used. The uncertainty of LCI data for materials and energy were assessed using the Ecoinvent data quality system. This study shows that with two different energy mixes, all renovation measures result in a decrease in the climate change potential. The five renovation measures used in the simulations, with and without consideration to uncertainties, show a lower climate change potential when carried out than when not carried out. It is also shown in this study that the inclusion of the uncertainties of the input data did not have any impact on the overall decisions to renovate or not to renovate. However, this should not be regarded as a general conclusion. If a renovation measure were to have a higher level of material use, or if the “Future energy mix” were to be improved, uncertainty considerations could become much more important from a climate change perspective.

Article Highlights

All assessed energy renovation measures show a decrease in their climate change potential when carried out.

The energy renovation measures with the largest decreases of climate change potential are also the measures with largest energy saving potential.

When uncertainties are considered, there are no overlaps in the results when carrying out or not carrying out a renovation measure.
Zolpidem Maintains Memories for Negative Emotions Across a Night of Sleep
Authors: Simon Katharine C. , Whitehurst Lauren N. , Zhang Jing , Mednick Sara C.
Published: November 2021

Zolpidem, a common medication for sleep complaints, also shows secondary, unexpected memory benefits. We previously found that zolpidem prior to a nap enhanced negative, highly arousing picture memory. As zolpidem is typically administered at night, how it affects overnight emotional memory processing is relevant. We used a double-blind, placebo-controlled, within-subject, cross-over design to investigate if zolpidem boosted negative compared to neutral picture memory. Subjects learned both pictures sets in the morning. That evening, subjects were administered zolpidem or placebo and slept in the lab. Recognition was tested that evening and the following morning. We found that zolpidem maintained negative picture memory compared to forgetting in the placebo condition. Furthermore, zolpidem increased slow-wave sleep time, decreased rapid eye movement sleep time, and increased the fast spindle range in NREM. Our results suggest that zolpidem may enhance negative memory longevity and salience. These findings raise concerns for zolpidem administration to certain clinical populations.
Acute Effect of High-Intensity Climbing on Performance and Muscle Oxygenation in Elite Climbers
Authors: Feldmann Andri , Lehmann Remo , Wittmann Frieder , Wolf Peter , Baláš Jiří , Erlacher Daniel
Published: November 2021

High-intensity training (HIT) is known to have deteriorating effects on performance which manifest in various physiological changes such as lowered force production and oxidative capacity. However, the effect of HIT in climbing on finger flexor performance has not been investigated yet. Twenty-one climbers partook in an intervention study with three assessment time points: pre-HIT, post-HIT, and 24-h post-HIT. The HIT involved four five-minute exhaustive climbing tasks. Eight climbers were assigned to a control group. Assessments consisted of three finger flexor tests: maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), sustained contraction (SCT), and intermittent contraction tests (ICT). During the SCT muscle oxygenation (SmO2) metrics were collected via NIRS sensors on the forearm. The HIT had significant deteriorating effects on all force production metrics (MVC − 18%, SCT − 55%, ICT − 59%). Post-24 h showed significant recovery, which was less pronounced for the endurance tests (MVC − 3%, SCT − 16%, ICT − 22%). SmO2metrics provided similar results for the SCT with medium to large effect sizes. Minimally attainable SmO2and resting SmO2both showed moderate negative correlations with pre-HIT force production respectively;r = − 0.41,P = 0.102;r = − 0.361,P = 0.154. A strong association was found between a loss of force production and change in minimally attainable SmO2(r = − 0.734,P = 0.016). This study presents novel findings on the deteriorating effects of HIT on finger flexor performance and their oxidative capacity. Specifically, the divergent results between strength and endurance tests should be of interest to coaches and athletes when assessing athlete readiness.
Multilevel Picard iterations for solving smooth semilinear parabolic heat equations
Authors: E Weinan , Hutzenthaler Martin , Jentzen Arnulf , Kruse Thomas
Published: November 2021

We introduce a new family of numerical algorithms for approximating solutions of general high-dimensional semilinear parabolic partial differential equations at single space-time points. The algorithm is obtained through a delicate combination of the Feynman–Kac and the Bismut–Elworthy–Li formulas, and an approximate decomposition of the Picard fixed-point iteration with multilevel accuracy. The algorithm has been tested on a variety of semilinear partial differential equations that arise in physics and finance, with satisfactory results. Analytical tools needed for the analysis of such algorithms, including a semilinear Feynman–Kac formula, a new class of seminorms and their recursive inequalities, are also introduced. They allow us to prove for semilinear heat equations with gradient-independent nonlinearities that the computational complexity of the proposed algorithm is bounded by $$O(d\,{\varepsilon }^{-(4+\delta )})$$

O
(
d

ε

-
(
4
+
δ
)

)

for any $$\delta \in (0,\infty )$$

δ
∈
(
0
,
∞
)

under suitable assumptions, where $$d\in {{\mathbb {N}}}$$

d
∈
N

is the dimensionality of the problem and $${\varepsilon }\in (0,\infty )$$

ε
∈
(
0
,
∞
)

is the prescribed accuracy. Moreover, the introduced class of numerical algorithms is also powerful for proving high-dimensional approximation capacities for deep neural networks.
Homogenization of the G-equation: a metric approach
Authors: Siconolfi Antonio
Published: November 2021

The aim of the paper is to recover some results of Cardaliaguet–Nolen–Souganidis in Cardaliaguet et al. (Arch Rat Mech Anal 199(2): 527–561, 2011) and Xin–Yu in Xin and Yu (Commun Math Sci 8(4): 1067–1078, 2010) about the homogenization of the G-equation, using different and simpler techniques. The main mathematical issue is the lack of coercivity of the Hamiltonians. In our approach we consider a multivalued dynamics without periodic invariants sets, a family of intrinsic distances and perform an approximation by a sequence of coercive Hamiltonians.
Modal approximation for plasmonic resonators in the time domain: the scalar case
Authors: Baldassari Lorenzo , Millien Pierre , Vanel Alice L.
Published: November 2021

We study the electromagnetic field scattered by a metallic nanoparticle with dispersive material parameters in a resonant regime. We consider the particle placed in a homogeneous medium in a low-frequency regime. We define modes for the non-Hermitian problem as perturbations of electro-static modes, and obtain a modal approximation of the scattered field in the frequency domain. The poles of the expansion correspond to the eigenvalues of a singular boundary integral operator and are shown to lie in a bounded region near the origin of the lower-half complex plane. Finally, we show that this modal representation gives a very good approximation of the field in the time domain. We present numerical simulations in two dimensions to corroborate our results.
Transport and continuity equations with (very) rough noise
Authors: Bellingeri C. , Djurdjevac A. , Friz P. K. , Tapia N.
Published: November 2021

Existence and uniqueness for rough flows, transport and continuity equations driven by general geometric rough paths are established.
Brother, Uncle, and Patriarch: a Northern Song “Family Man”
Authors: Zhang Cong Ellen
Published: November 2021

This is a case study of Han Qi (1008–1075), one of the most influential statesmen in the Northern Song. Drawing on his funerary biographical work and other writing, it places at the forefront Han's family life and relationships, especially his role as a brother, uncle, and family head. The goal of the study is threefold: first, to establish Han as a “family man,” in contrast to his conventional image as an outstanding political figure; second, to illustrate how seemingly random occurrences shaped Han's life and fortune in significant ways. Finally, this essay aims to enrich scholarly understanding of family preservation in the Northern Song. For many years, the possibility of the Hans failing in this regard remained a source of anxiety for Han Qi. This fear shaped his interaction with members of the younger generations in tangible ways and created noticeable undertones in his writing on family matters.
FRAGMENTED MOTIVES AND POLICIES: THE BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE IN CHINA
Authors: Ye Min
Published: November 2021

Observers have portrayed the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) variously, as China's great-power strategy, global infrastructure initiative, or commercial projects. Each characterization has had logical reasoning and evidence to support it. But how? How has one initiative been shown to have such varied motives? This article unpacks the Chinese state and establishes that a “tri-block” structure consisting of political leadership, bureaucracy, and economic arms has accounted for such varied motivations and actors in the BRI in China. In the BRI process, the leadership employed strategic rhetoric, and bureaucracies imposed policy ideas. Yet, more pervasively, the implementers have followed commercial motives in specific projects. BRI's strategic rhetoric and hazardous investment have generated external critiques and anti-China backlash, forcing Beijing to readjust the initiative. However, given the tri-block state structure, Beijing's policy adjustment will not be sufficient. Economic actors’ incentives need to be shifted too.
Trends in intake and sources of dietary protein in Korean adults, 1998–2018
Authors: Lee Kyung Won , Shin Dayeon
Published: November 2021

Although a decrease in carbohydrate intake and an increase in fat intake among Koreans have been reported, investigations of changes in protein intake have been limited. Thus, this study aimed to explore trends in the dietary intake of total, plant and animal proteins overall and by socio-demographic subgroups in Korea over the past two decades. A total of 78 716 Korean adults aged ≥ 19 years who participated in the seven survey cycles of the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1998–2018 were included. Dietary protein intake, overall and by source, was calculated using a single 24-h dietary recall data. Changes in dietary protein over 20 years were estimated using multiple linear regression analysis after adjusting for potential covariates. For total protein intake, a significant decrease was reported from 1998 to 2016–2018 (P for trendlinearity < 0·001), whereas an increasing trend was observed from 2007–2009 to 2016–2018 (P for trendlinearity < 0·001). In terms of protein intake by source, plant protein intake decreased while animal protein intake increased over the past two decades, indicating steeper trends during the recent decade (P for trendlinearity < 0·001). These trends were more pronounced among younger adults and those with higher household income and education levels. These findings suggest that continuous monitoring of dietary protein intake overall and by source (plant v. animal) across socio-demographic group is needed.
Dietary supplementation of fructo-oligosaccharides alleviates enterotoxigenic E. coli-induced disruption of intestinal epithelium in a weaned piglet model
Authors: Luo Yuheng , Liu Lei , Chen Daiwen , Yu Bing , Zheng Ping , Mao Xiangbing , Huang Zhiqing , Yu Jie , Luo Junqiu , Yan Hui , He Jun
Published: November 2021

Diarrhoea caused by pathogens such as enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC) is a serious threat to the health of young animals and human infants. Here, we investigated the protective effect of fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) on the intestinal epithelium with ETEC challenge in a weaned piglet model. Twenty-four weaned piglets were randomly divided into three groups: (1) non-ETEC-challenged control (CON); (2) ETEC-challenged control (ECON); and (3) ETEC challenge + 2·5 g/kg FOS (EFOS). On day 19, the CON pigs were orally infused with sterile culture, while the ECON and EFOS pigs were orally infused with active ETEC (2·5 × 109 colony-forming units). On day 21, pigs were slaughtered to collect venous blood and small intestine. Result showed that the pre-treatment of FOS improved the antioxidant capacity and the integrity of intestinal barrier in the ETEC-challenged pigs without affecting their growth performance. Specifically, compared with ECON pigs, the level of GSH peroxidase and catalase in the plasma and intestinal mucosa of EFOS pigs was increased (P < 0·05), and the intestinal barrier marked by zonula occluden-1 and plasmatic diamine oxidase was also improved in EFOS pigs. A lower level (P < 0·05) of inflammatory cytokines in the intestinal mucosa of EFOS pigs might be involved in the inhibition of TLR4/MYD88/NF-κB pathway. The apoptosis of jejunal cells in EFOS pigs was also lower than that in ECON pigs (P < 0·05). Our findings provide convincing evidence of possible prebiotic and protective effect of FOS on the maintenance of intestinal epithelial function under the attack of pathogens.
Archaeometric analysis of a fragment of molded stucco cornice with rope from the House of the Mithraeum (Mérida, Spain)
Authors: Fernández Díaz Alicia , Bejarano Osorio Ana María , Bustamante-Álvarez Macarena , Yusá Marco Dolores Julia , Vicente Palomino Sofía , Castillo Alcántara Gonzalo
Published: November 2021

During the excavations carried out since 2017 in the House of the Mithraeum (Casa del Mitreo) in Mérida a collection of paintings was recovered from Room 11, which had been abandoned in the late 3rd c. CE after a fire. The remains included fragments of molded stucco cornices, with braided esparto grass ropes on the reverse that were used to attach them to the ceiling. This article presents the descriptive and technical study of the finds and their compositional analysis using scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction. Data resulting from these analyses allow us to understand the fragments’ composition and technical execution, and even the possible circulation of workshops and raw materials.
ON FUNDAMENTAL FOURIER COEFFICIENTS OF SIEGEL CUSP FORMS OF DEGREE 2
Authors: Jääsaari Jesse , Lester Stephen , Saha Abhishek
Published: November 2021

LetFbe a Siegel cusp form of degree$2$, even weight$k \ge 2$, and odd square-free levelN. We undertake a detailed study of the analytic properties of Fourier coefficients$a(F,S)$ofFat fundamental matricesS(i.e., with$-4\det (S)$equal to a fundamental discriminant). We prove that asSvaries along the equivalence classes of fundamental matrices with$\det (S) \asymp X$, the sequence$a(F,S)$has at least$X^{1-\varepsilon }$sign changes and takes at least$X^{1-\varepsilon }$‘large values’. Furthermore, assuming the generalized Riemann hypothesis as well as the refined Gan–Gross–Prasad conjecture, we prove the bound$\lvert a(F,S)\rvert \ll _{F, \varepsilon } \frac {\det (S)^{\frac {k}2 - \frac {1}{2}}}{ \left (\log \lvert \det (S)\rvert \right )^{\frac 18 - \varepsilon }}$for fundamental matricesS.
The Impacts of Microphysics and Terminal Velocities of Graupel/Hail on the Rainfall of Typhoon Fitow (2013) as Seen From the WRF Model Simulations With Several Microphysics Schemes
Authors: Xu Huiyan , Zhang Dengrong , Li Xiaofan
Published: November 2021

This study investigated cloud microphysical processes, and the upward and downward movement of precipitating particles with the Weather Research and Forecasting model during Typhoon Fitow (2013). The Purdue‐Lin single‐moment scheme and the Milbrandt‐Yau and National Severe Storms Laboratory (NSSL) double‐moment microphysics schemes were utilized. The area‐mean rainfall simulated by the three schemes shared similar magnitudes and variations. The area‐mean rain rates were insensitive to microphysics schemes, as they were mainly determined by large‐scale water vapor convergence. However, the local rainfall intensity was sensitive to the schemes and graupel and hail parameterizations. This indicates great impacts of microphysics and terminal velocities of graupel/hail on the local rainfall intensity. Upward‐moving graupel had a stronger net source compared to the downward‐moving graupel over the spiral rainband in the Milbrandt‐Yau simulation due to the low terminal velocity; whereas the net source was much weaker for upward‐moving graupel than for downward‐moving graupel over the eyewall in the NSSL simulation due to the large terminal velocity. Decreasing the terminal velocities of graupel and hail (if hail exists) in the mid and lower troposphere significantly reduced the maximum local rainfall intensity via increasing the sources of upward‐moving graupel. This is because the upward‐moving graupel is prone to remaining in the clouds being advected out of the updraft region instead of directly converting to raindrops as the sinks of graupel. The microphysics and the terminal velocities were together responsible for the local rainfall intensity.
Effect of the Coriolis Force on Salt Dynamics in Convergent Partially Mixed Estuaries
Authors: Gong Wenping , Zhang Guang , Yuan Lirong , Zhang Heng , Zhu Lei
Published: November 2021

In this study, we numerically investigate the effect of the Earth's rotation on the salt dynamics in an idealized convergent partially mixed estuary. The effect of the Coriolis force on salt transport is shown to vary in different parts of the estuary. Near the estuary mouth and in the upper estuary, compared with nonrotating environments, the Coriolis force weakens the longitudinal estuarine circulation and salinity stratification, thus decreasing the landward salt transport induced by the steady shear. On the other hand, the Coriolis force increases the magnitudes of the tidal variations of current and salinity, and decreases the phase shift between these two variables, resulting in enhanced landward transport of salt by the tidal oscillatory. In the middle estuary, the Coriolis force has less effect on the steady shear and tidal oscillatory transport. The Coriolis force decreases the salinity along the channel bottom by decreasing the vertical advection and increasing the vertical mixing, which results in a decreased salt intrusion. Sensitivity experiments show that in partially mixed estuaries with landward salt transport dominated by steady shear, the effect of the Coriolis force is proportional to the Coriolis parameter, and is more prominent for moderate tidal mixing and higher river discharge scenarios. However, when the tidal mixing is further increased and the estuary transits into a state of well‐mixed with landward salt transport dominated by tidal dispersion, the Coriolis force is shown to increase the stratification and estuarine circulation, and consequently enhances the salt intrusion.
Economic costs at age five associated with very preterm birth: multinational European cohort study
Authors: Kim Sung Wook , Andronis Lazaros , Seppänen Anna-Veera , Aubert Adrien M. , Zeitlin Jennifer , Barros Henrique , Draper Elizabeth S. , Petrou Stavros ,   on behalf of the SHIPS Research Group,   Belgium, Lebeer J. , Van Reempts P. , Bruneel E. , Cloet E. , Oostra A. , Ortibus E. , Sarrechia I. ,   Denmark, Boerch K. , Pedersen P. ,   Estonia, Toome L. , Varendi H. , Männamaa M. ,   France, Ancel P. Y. , Burguet A. , Jarreau P. H. , Pierrat V. , Truffert P. ,   Germany, Maier R. F. , Zemlin M. , Misselwitz B. , Wohlers L. ,   Italy, Cuttini M. , Croci I. , Carnielli V. , Ancora G. , Faldella G. , Ferrari F. ,   The Netherlands, van Heijst A. , Koopman-Esseboom C. ,   Poland, Gadzinowski J. , Mazela J. , Montgomery A. , Pikuła T. ,   Portugal, Barros H. , Costa R. , Rodrigues C. ,   Sweden, Aden U. ,   United Kingdom, Draper E. S. , Fenton A. , Johnson S. J. ,   EFCNI, Mader S. , Thiele N. , Pfeil J. M. ,   Health Economics Team, Petrou S. , Kim S. W. , Andronis L. ,   Inserm Coordination, Zeitlin J. , Bonnet C. , El Rafei R. , Seppänen A. V. , Aubert A. M.
Published: November 2021

Background

This study aims to estimate the economic costs of care provided to children born very preterm and extremely preterm across 11 European countries, and to understand what perinatal and socioeconomic factors contribute to higher costs.

Methods

Generalised linear modelling was used to explore the association between perinatal and sociodemographic characteristics and total economic costs (€, 2016 prices) during the fifth year of life.

Results

Lower gestational age was associated with increased mean societal costs of €2755 (p < 0.001), €752 (p < 0.01) and €657 (p < 0.01) for children born at < 26, 26–27 and 28–29 weeks, respectively, in comparison to the reference group born at 30–31 weeks. A sensitivity analyses that excluded variables (BPD, any neonatal morbidity and presence of congenital anomaly) plausibly lying on the causal pathway between gestational age at birth and economic outcomes elevated incremental societal costs by €1482, €763 and €144 at < 26, 26–27 and 28–29 weeks, respectively, in comparison to the baseline model.

Conclusion

This study provides new evidence about the main cost drivers associated with preterm birth in European countries. Evidence identified by this study can act as inputs within cost-effectiveness models for preventive or treatment interventions for preterm birth.

Impact

What is the key message of your article? This study provides new evidence about the magnitude and drivers of economic costs associated with preterm birth in European countries.

What does it add to the existing literature? Lower gestational age is associated with increased mean societal costs during mid-childhood with indirect costs representing a key driver of increased costs.

What is the impact? For policy makers, this study adds to sparse evidence about the main cost drivers associated with preterm birth in European countries beyond the first 2 years of life.
Extent of myosin penetration within the actin cortex regulates cell surface mechanics
Authors: Truong Quang Binh An , Peters Ruby , Cassani Davide A. D. , Chugh Priyamvada , Clark Andrew G. , Agnew Meghan , Charras Guillaume , Paluch Ewa K.
Published: November 2021

In animal cells, shape is mostly determined by the actomyosin cortex, a thin cytoskeletal network underlying the plasma membrane. Myosin motors generate tension in the cortex, and tension gradients result in cellular deformations. As such, many cell morphogenesis studies have focused on the mechanisms controlling myosin activity and recruitment to the cortex. Here, we demonstrate using super-resolution microscopy that myosin does not always overlap with actin at the cortex, but remains restricted towards the cytoplasm in cells with low cortex tension. We propose that this restricted penetration results from steric hindrance, as myosin minifilaments are considerably larger than the cortical actin meshsize. We identify myosin activity and actin network architecture as key regulators of myosin penetration into the cortex, and show that increasing myosin penetration increases cortical tension. Our study reveals that the spatial coordination of myosin and actin at the cortex regulates cell surface mechanics, and unveils an important mechanism whereby myosin size controls its action by limiting minifilament penetration into the cortical actin network. More generally, our findings suggest that protein size could regulate function in dense cytoskeletal structures.
Low-latency time-of-flight non-line-of-sight imaging at 5 frames per second
Authors: Nam Ji Hyun , Brandt Eric , Bauer Sebastian , Liu Xiaochun , Renna Marco , Tosi Alberto , Sifakis Eftychios , Velten Andreas
Published: November 2021

Non-Line-Of-Sight (NLOS) imaging aims at recovering the 3D geometry of objects that are hidden from the direct line of sight. One major challenge with this technique is the weak available multibounce signal limiting scene size, capture speed, and reconstruction quality. To overcome this obstacle, we introduce a multipixel time-of-flight non-line-of-sight imaging method combining specifically designed Single Photon Avalanche Diode (SPAD) array detectors with a fast reconstruction algorithm that captures and reconstructs live low-latency videos of non-line-of-sight scenes with natural non-retroreflective objects. We develop a model of the signal-to-noise-ratio of non-line-of-sight imaging and use it to devise a method that reconstructs the scene such that signal-to-noise-ratio, motion blur, angular resolution, and depth resolution are all independent of scene depth suggesting that reconstruction of very large scenes may be possible.
Targeting chondrocytes for arresting bony fusion in ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Shao Fenli , Liu Qianqian , Zhu Yuyu , Fan Zhidan , Chen Wenjun , Liu Shijia , Li Xiaohui , Guo Wenjie , Feng Gen-Sheng , Yu Haiguo , Xu Qiang , Sun Yang
Published: November 2021

Bony fusion caused by pathological new bone formation manifests the clinical feature of ankylosing spondylitis (AS). However, the underlying mechanism remains elusive. Here we discovered spontaneous kyphosis, arthritis and bony fusion in mature CD4-Cre;Ptpn11
f/f mice, which present the pathophysiological features of AS. A population of CD4-Cre-expressing proliferating chondrocytes was SHP2 deficient, which could differentiate into pre-hypertrophic and hypertrophic chondrocytes. Functionally, SHP2 deficiency in chondrocytes impeded the fusion of epiphyseal plate and promoted chondrogenesis in joint cavity and enthesis. Mechanistically, aberrant chondrocytes promoted ectopic new bone formation through BMP6/pSmad1/5 signaling. It is worth emphasizing that such pathological thickness of growth plates was evident in adolescent humans with enthesitis-related arthritis, which could progress to AS in adulthood. Targeting dysfunctional chondrogenesis with Smo inhibitor sonidegib significantly alleviated the AS-like bone disease in mice. These findings suggest that blockade of chondrogenesis by sonidegib would be a drug repurposing strategy for AS treatment.
The parent-of-origin lncRNA MISSEN regulates rice endosperm development
Authors: Zhou Yan-Fei , Zhang Yu-Chan , Sun Yu-Meng , Yu Yang , Lei Meng-Qi , Yang Yu-Wei , Lian Jian-Ping , Feng Yan-Zhao , Zhang Zhi , Yang Lu , He Rui-Rui , Huang Jia-Hui , Cheng Yu , Liu Yu-Wei , Chen Yue-Qin
Published: November 2021

The cereal endosperm is a major factor determining seed size and shape. However, the molecular mechanisms of endosperm development are not fully understood. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) function in various biological processes. Here we show a lncRNA, MISSEN, that plays an essential role in early endosperm development in rice (Oryza sativa). MISSEN is a parent-of-origin lncRNA expressed in endosperm, and negatively regulates endosperm development, leading to a prominent dent and bulge in the seed. Mechanistically, MISSEN functions through hijacking a helicase family protein (HeFP) to regulate tubulin function during endosperm nucleus division and endosperm cellularization, resulting in abnormal cytoskeletal polymerization. Finally, we revealed that the expression of MISSEN is inhibited by histone H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) modification after pollination. Therefore, MISSEN is the first lncRNA identified as a regulator in endosperm development, highlighting the potential applications in rice breeding.
Cryo-EM structure provides insights into the dimer arrangement of the O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine transferase OGT
Authors: Meek Richard W. , Blaza James N. , Busmann Jil A. , Alteen Matthew G. , Vocadlo David J. , Davies Gideon J.
Published: November 2021

The O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine modification is a core signalling mechanism, with erroneous patterns leading to cancer and neurodegeneration. Although thousands of proteins are subject to this modification, only a single essential glycosyltransferase catalyses its installation, the O-GlcNAc transferase, OGT. Previous studies have provided truncated structures of OGT through X-ray crystallography, but the full-length protein has never been observed. Here, we report a 5.3 Å cryo-EM model of OGT. We show OGT is a dimer, providing a structural basis for how some X-linked intellectual disability mutations at the interface may contribute to disease. We observe that the catalytic section of OGT abuts a 13.5 tetratricopeptide repeat unit region and find the relative positioning of these sections deviate from the previously proposed, X-ray crystallography-based model. We also note that OGT exhibits considerable heterogeneity in tetratricopeptide repeat units N-terminal to the dimer interface with repercussions for how OGT binds protein ligands and partners.
A modular toolbox to generate complex polymeric ubiquitin architectures using orthogonal sortase enzymes
Authors: Fottner Maximilian , Weyh Maria , Gaussmann Stefan , Schwarz Dominic , Sattler Michael , Lang Kathrin
Published: November 2021

The post-translational modification of proteins with ubiquitin (Ub) and Ub-like modifiers (Ubls) represents one of the most important regulators in eukaryotic biology. Polymeric Ub/Ubl chains of distinct topologies control the activity, stability, interaction and localization of almost all cellular proteins and elicit a variety of biological outputs. Our ability to characterize the roles of distinct Ub/Ubl topologies and to identify enzymes and receptors that create, recognize and remove these modifications is however hampered by the difficulty to prepare them. Here we introduce a modular toolbox (Ubl-tools) that allows the stepwise assembly of Ub/Ubl chains in a flexible and user-defined manner facilitated by orthogonal sortase enzymes. We demonstrate the universality and applicability of Ubl-tools by generating distinctly linked Ub/Ubl hybrid chains, and investigate their role in DNA damage repair. Importantly, Ubl-tools guarantees straightforward access to target proteins, site-specifically modified with distinct homo- and heterotypic (including branched) Ub chains, providing a powerful approach for studying the functional impact of these complex modifications on cellular processes.
Nitrate restricts nodule organogenesis through inhibition of cytokinin biosynthesis in Lotus japonicus
Authors: Lin Jieshun , Roswanjaya Yuda Purwana , Kohlen Wouter , Stougaard Jens , Reid Dugald
Published: November 2021

Legumes balance nitrogen acquisition from soil nitrate with symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Nitrogen fixation requires establishment of a new organ, which is a cytokinin dependent developmental process in the root. We found cytokinin biosynthesis is a central integrator, balancing nitrate signalling with symbiotic acquired nitrogen. Low nitrate conditions provide a permissive state for induction of cytokinin by symbiotic signalling and thus nodule development. In contrast, high nitrate is inhibitory to cytokinin accumulation and nodule establishment in the root zone susceptible to nodule formation. This reduction of symbiotic cytokinin accumulation was further exacerbated in cytokinin biosynthesis mutants, which display hypersensitivity to nitrate inhibition of nodule development, maturation and nitrogen fixation. Consistent with this, cytokinin application rescues nodulation and nitrogen fixation of biosynthesis mutants in a concentration dependent manner. These inhibitory impacts of nitrate on symbiosis occur in a Nlp1 and Nlp4 dependent manner and contrast with the positive influence of nitrate on cytokinin biosynthesis that occurs in species that do not form symbiotic root nodules. Altogether this shows that legumes, as exemplified by Lotus japonicus, have evolved a different cytokinin response to nitrate compared to non-legumes.
Interferon-driven brain phenotype in a mouse model of RNaseT2 deficient leukoencephalopathy
Authors: Kettwig Matthias , Ternka Katharina , Wendland Kristin , Krüger Dennis Manfred , Zampar Silvia , Schob Charlotte , Franz Jonas , Aich Abhishek , Winkler Anne , Sakib M. Sadman , Kaurani Lalit , Epple Robert , Werner Hauke B. , Hakroush Samy , Kitz Julia , Prinz Marco , Bartok Eva , Hartmann Gunther , Schröder Simone , Rehling Peter , Henneke Marco , Boretius Susann , Alia A. , Wirths Oliver , Fischer Andre , Stadelmann Christine , Nessler Stefan , Gärtner Jutta
Published: November 2021

Infantile-onset RNaseT2 deficient leukoencephalopathy is characterised by cystic brain lesions, multifocal white matter alterations, cerebral atrophy, and severe psychomotor impairment. The phenotype is similar to congenital cytomegalovirus brain infection and overlaps with type I interferonopathies, suggesting a role for innate immunity in its pathophysiology. To date, pathophysiological studies have been hindered by the lack of mouse models recapitulating the neuroinflammatory encephalopathy found in patients. In this study, we generated Rnaset2−/− mice using CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing. Rnaset2−/− mice demonstrate upregulation of interferon-stimulated genes and concurrent IFNAR1-dependent neuroinflammation, with infiltration of CD8+ effector memory T cells and inflammatory monocytes into the grey and white matter. Single nuclei RNA sequencing reveals homeostatic dysfunctions in glial cells and neurons and provide important insights into the mechanisms of hippocampal-accentuated brain atrophy and cognitive impairment. The Rnaset2−/− mice may allow the study of CNS damage associated with RNaseT2 deficiency and may be used for the investigation of potential therapies.
Applying laboratory methods for durability assessment of vitrified material to archaeological samples
Authors: Nava-Farias Lorena , Neeway James J. , Schweiger Michael J. , Marcial José , Canfield Nathan L. , Pearce Carolyn I. , Peeler David K. , Vicenzi Edward P. , Kosson David S. , Delapp Rossane C. , McCloy John S. , Walling Sam A. , Thorpe Clare L. , Corkhill Claire L. , Hand Russell J. , Sjöblom Rolf , Kruger Albert A.
Published: November 2021

Laboratory testing used to assess the long-term chemical durability of nuclear waste forms may not be applicable to disposal because the accelerated conditions may not represent disposal conditions. To address this, we examine the corrosion of vitrified archeological materials excavated from the near surface of a ~1500-year old Iron Age Swedish hillfort, Broborg, as an analog for the disposal of vitrified nuclear waste. We compare characterized site samples with corrosion characteristics generated by standard laboratory durability test methods including the product consistency test (PCT), the vapor hydration test (VHT), and the EPA Method 1313 test. Results show that the surficial layer of the Broborg samples resulting from VHT displays some similarities to the morphology of the surficial layer formed over longer timescales in the environment. This work provides improved understanding of long-term glass corrosion behavior in terms of the thickness, morphology, and chemistry of the surficial features that are formed.