bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-network interaction for diagnosis of major depressive disorder based on resting state functional connectivity
Authors: Zhu Xueling , Yuan Fulai , Zhou Gaofeng , Nie Jilin , Wang Dongcui , Hu Ping , Ouyang Lirong , Kong Lingyu , Liao Weihua
Published: July 2020

Previous studies have suggested that resting-state functional connectivity plays a central role in the physiopathology of major depressive disorder (MDD). However, the individualized diagnosis of MDD based on resting-state functional connectivity is still unclear, especially in first episode drug-naive patients with MDD. Resting state functional magnetic resonance imaging was enrolled from 30 first episode drug-naive patients with MDD and age- and gender-matched 31 healthy controls. Whole brain functional connectivity was computed and viewed as classification features. Multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) was performed to discriminate patients with MDD from controls. The experimental results exhibited a correct classification rate of 82.25% (p < 0.001) with sensitivity of 83.87% and specificity of 80.64%. Almost all of the consensus connections (125/128) were cross-network interaction among default mode network (DMN), salience network (SN), central executive network (CEN), visual cortex network (VN), Cerebellum and Other. Moreover, the supramarginal gyrus exhibited high discriminative power in classification. Our findings suggested cross-network interaction can be used as an effective biomarker for MDD clinical diagnosis, which may reveal the potential pathological mechanism for major depression. The current study further confirmed reliable application of MVPA in discriminating MDD patients from healthy controls.
What GDPR and the Health Research Regulations (HRRs) mean for Ireland: “explicit consent”—a legal analysis
Authors: Kirwan Mary , Mee Blanaid , Clarke Niamh , Tanaka Aoife , Manaloto Lino , Halpin Emma , Gibbons Una , Cullen Ann , McGarrigle Sarah , Connolly Elisabeth M. , Bennett Kathleen , Gaffney Eoin , Flanagan Ciaran , Tier Laura , Flavin Richard , McElvaney Noel G.
Published: July 2020

Background

Irish Health Research Regulations (HRRs) were introduced following the commencement of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in 2018. The HRRs set out supplementary regulatory requirements for research. A legal analysis presented under the auspices of the Irish Academy of Medical Sciences (IAMS) on April 8 and November 25, 2019 at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland welcomed the introduction of GDPR and the HRRs. The analysis found the GDPR “explicit consent” introduced by the HRRs is problematic. A call was made to regulate informed consent in line with the common law as an achievable alternative safeguard, bringing Ireland in line with other EU Member States.

Aims

This article aims to review academic papers, legal opinion, EU opinion and advice and data protection law in relation to research and explicit consent, in order to examine the legal burden of GDPR and the HRRs on health research in Ireland and to determine whether the analysis presented at the IAMS meetings is reflected more widely in legal text.

Methods

Legal literature review of academic papers, legal opinion, EU opinion and advice and data protection legislation.

Results

The legal literature review overwhelmingly supports the concerns raised.

Conclusions

Our results confirm the GDPR explicit consent requirement of the HRRs is having had a significantly negative and far-reaching impact on the conduct of health research in Ireland. Urgent review of the HRRs and meaningful engagement between the health research community and legislators in healthcare is required.
1H, 13C and 15N backbone resonance assignment of BRCA1 fragment 219–504
Authors: Górka Michał , Żerko Szymon , Konrat Robert , Koźmiński Wiktor , Kurzbach Dennis
Published: July 2020

The breast cancer susceptibility protein 1 (BRCA1) plays a central role in the suppression of human breast and ovarian cancer. Germ line mutations of the BRCA1 gene are responsible for the hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) syndrome. Here were report 1H, 13C, and 15N resonance assignments for the intrinsically disordered BRCA1 fragment 219–504, which contains important interaction sites for the proto-oncogenic transcription factor MYC as well as for p53. A nuclear magnetic resonance assignment was achieved at 18.8 T magnetic field strength using a 5D HN(CA)CONH experiment and its associated 4D H(NCA)CONH and 4D (H)N(CA)CONH experiments. 13Cα and 13Cβ assignments were obtained using a 5D HabCabCONH experiment. With this strategy, 90% of 1H/15N backbone pairs could be assigned. Similarly, 264 C’ resonances were assigned corresponding to 86% of the total number of C’ atoms. In addition, 252 Cβ resonances (i.e. 85%) were assigned, together with 461 attached Hβ nuclei, as well as 264 (i.e. 86%) Cα resonances, together with 275 attached Hα nuclei.
Does Dual Training Make the World Go Round? Training Models in German Companies in China, India and Mexico
Authors: Pilz Matthias , Wiemann Kristina
Published: July 2020

The transfer of dual training from Germany to other countries is widely debated. However, there is little, if any, academic research in this area. The present study addresses this research deficit and examines the training activities of German companies in China, India and Mexico. Data was collected in 86 manufacturing companies of differing sizes and producing different goods. The evaluation of a total of 149 interviews with training experts showed that both the local training system and the German system can serve as a model for companies’ training. Hybrid forms combining local and German elements also exist. Even within a company, different parallel types of training can be identified. However, the orientation to local training practice is the dominant model in all three countries.
Current Approaches for the Non-surgical Management of Peri-implant Diseases
Authors: Roccuzzo Andrea , De Ry Siro Pietro , Sculean Anton , Roccuzzo Mario , Salvi Giovanni Edoardo
Published: July 2020

Purpose of the Review

Peri-implant diseases are inflammatory reactions to bacterial infections affecting osseointegrated dental implants. In recent years, scientific interest on this topic has increased, as demonstrated by the appearance of a large number of protocols for treating peri-implant mucositis (PIM) and peri-implantitis (PI). The aim of the present narrative review is to provide an overview of the recent (e.g., 2014–present) published protocols for the non-surgical treatment of peri-implant diseases.

Recent Findings

Several adjunctive measures for mechanical debridement have been proposed and investigated to achieve implant surface decontamination and resolution of mucosal inflammation. However, none of the adjunctive measures has been shown to significantly improve peri-implant conditions compared with non-surgical mechanical debridement alone.

Non-surgical approaches for the treatment of peri-implant diseases have been proved to be reliable in reducing clinical signs of peri-implant inflammation (e.g., BoP), although with limited capability to achieve complete disease resolution. Due to the limited benefits from the use of currently proposed adjunctive methods (e.g., chlorhexidine, lasers, photodynamic therapy, systemic probiotics) their application is not recommended until further investigations prove their clinical utility.
Frailty prevalence according to the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe-Frailty Instrument (SHARE-FI) definition, and its variables associated, in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis: findings from a cross-sectional study
Authors: Salaffi Fausto , Di Carlo Marco , Carotti Marina , Farah Sonia , Giovagnoni Andrea
Published: July 2020

Background

Frailty is a frequent condition in patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA). However, there are different constructs on how to define it. Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe-Frailty Instrument (SHARE-FI) is one of them.

Aim

To assess the prevalence of frailty, according to the SHARE-FI definition in patients with symptomatic KOA, and to establish its associated factors.

Methods

Symptomatic KOA patients were evaluated for pain symptoms, quality of life, comorbidities, ongoing drug therapy, and radiological damage. Patients were categorised according to the SHARE-FI definition into frail, pre-frail, and non-frail, and compared to a group of healthy controls associated by age and gender.

Results

170 symptomatic KOA patients (76.5% female, mean age 70.1 years) and 186 healthy controls were included. According to SHARE-FI criteria, 35 patients (20.6%) were categorised frail, 50 (29.4%) pre-frail, and 85 (50%) non-frail. The prevalence of frail or pre-frail subjects was statistically significantly higher in patients with symptomatic KOA. Stratifying the patients according to the frailty categories, frail subjects showed significantly higher mean values of pain. The results from logistic regression analysis revealed that polypharmacy (p = 0.003), pain (p = 0.016) and comorbidities (p = 0.035) were the variables independently associated with frailty in symptomatic KOA.

Discussion

Frailty or pre-frailty, defined by SHARE-FI, is common in symptomatic KOA. The main factors associated with frailty were polypharmacy, pain and comorbidity burden.

Conclusions

SHARE-FI can represent an useful tool to define frailty in symptomatic KOA.
Conversion of fish processing wastewater into fish feed ingredients through submerged cultivation of Aspergillus oryzae
Authors: Sar Taner , Ferreira Jorge A. , Taherzadeh Mohammad J.
Published: July 2020

Fish processing towards production of fillet gives rise to wastewater streams that are ultimately directed to biogas production and/or wastewater treatment. However, these wastewater streams are rich in minerals, fat, and proteins that can be converted to protein-rich feed ingredients through submerged cultivation of edible filamentous fungi. In this study, the origin of wastewater stream, initial pH, cultivation time, and extent of washing during sieving, were found to influence the amount of recovered material from the wastewater streams and its protein content, following cultivation with Aspergillus oryzae. Through cultivation of the filamentous fungus in sludge, 330 kg of material per ton of COD were recovered by sieving, corresponding to 121 kg protein per ton of COD, while through its cultivation in salt brine, 210 kg of material were recovered per ton of COD, corresponding to 128 kg protein per ton of COD. Removal ranges of 12–43%, 39–92%, and 32–66% for COD, total solids, and nitrogen, respectively, were obtained after A. oryzae growth and harvesting in the wastewater streams. Therefore, the present study shows the versatility that the integration of fungal cultivation provides to fish processing industries, and should be complemented by economic, environmental, and feeding studies, in order to reveal the most promising valorization strategy.

Graphic abstract
Molecular events and cytotoxic effects of a novel thiosemicarbazone derivative in human leukemia and lymphoma cell lines
Authors: Santos-Pirath Íris Mattos , Walter Laura Otto , Maioral Mariana Franzoni , Pacheco Lucas Antônio , Sens Larissa , Nunes Ricardo José , Santos-Silva Maria Cláudia
Published: July 2020

The present study aimed to investigate the cytotoxic effect of 38 new thiosemicarbazone derivatives on hematological neoplastic cells lines and to select the most effective compounds to investigate the main molecular mechanisms involved in cell death. Cytotoxicity screening on Daudi and Jurkat cells revealed that only compound 1b met the selection criteria; therefore, it was chosen for further investigation. Cell viability of Daudi, Jurkat, Molt-4, Namalwa, K562, and MM.1S cell lines decreased in a concentration- and time-dependent manner after compound 1b incubation; nevertheless the compound neither caused significant hemolysis nor reduction in peripheral blood mononuclear cell viability. Although no changes were observed on cell cycle or Ki-67 expression, compound 1b induced apoptotic-like cell death with mitochondrial involvement, Bax/Bcl-2 inversion, AIF release, survivin inhibition, and caspase-3 activation in both Daudi and Jurkat cells. Furthermore, the compound reduced NFkB expression in Jurkat cells. In Daudi cells, compound 1b also decreased CHOP, Akt, pAkt, and MAPK/ERK2 expression, thereby suggesting modulation of UPR, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and MAPK/ERK signaling pathways. Finally, the compound was able to reduce the cell viability of samples collected from patients with different lymphoid neoplasms subtypes, showing that thiosemicarbazones derivatives could be used in the development of new drugs with anticancer activity.
Editorial
Authors: Barrett Steve
Published: July 2020

Europe sees ‘green’ hydrogen as a strategic priority in its economic recovery from the impact of coronavirus, and supporting the European Union's commitment to reaching carbon neutrality by 2050.
Hope and Hopefulness
Authors: Kwong Jack M. C.
Published: July 2020

This paper proposes a new framework for thinking about hope, with certain unexpected consequences. Specifically, I argue that a shift in focus from locutions like “x hopes that” and “x is hoping that” to “x is hopeful that” and “x has hope that” can improve our understanding of hope. This approach, which emphasizes hopefulness as the central concept, turns out to be more revealing and fruitful in tackling some of the issues that philosophers have raised about hope, such as the question of how hope can be distinguished from despair or how people can have differing strengths in hope. It also allows us to see that many current accounts of hope, far from being rivals, are actually compatible with one another.
Methodology for studying human attitudes and behaviour to cow−calf contact systems
Authors: Ferneborg Sabine , Napolitano Fabio , Vaarst Mette , Mejdell Cecilie M. , Waiblinger Susanne , de Oliveira Daiana
Published: July 2020

This position paper describes a common stand on methodology of human attitudes and behaviour that is suitable to use in studies regarding cow−calf contact (CCC) in dairy production, in order to create a common knowledge base and foundation for future recommendations of CCC systems. We describe how different quantitative and qualitative methods can be used to study human attitudes to CCC as well as farmer or consumer behaviour. We aim to contribute to a better understanding of the available methods, and hope that this paper can be used as a guideline for future studies in this area.
Methodological terminology and definitions for research and discussion of cow-calf contact systems
Authors: Sirovnik Janja , Barth Kerstin , de Oliveira Daiana , Ferneborg Sabine , Haskell Marie J. , Hillmann Edna , Jensen Margit Bak , Mejdell Cecilie M. , Napolitano Fabio , Vaarst Mette , Verwer Cynthia M. , Waiblinger Susanne , Zipp Katharina A. , Johnsen Julie Føske
Published: July 2020

Due to increasing public concern regarding separation of the dairy cow and calf within the first days after birth, alternative systems, where cows and calves stay in contact for an extended period, are receiving increasing interest from a broad array of researchers and other stakeholders. With more research in the area, there is a risk of inconsistencies emerging in the use of terminology. To create a better consensus in further discussions, the aim of this Research Reflection is to provide definitions and propose a common terminology for cow-calf contact in dairy production. We also suggest definitions for various systems allowing cow-calf contact and describe the distinct phases of cow-calf contact systems.
Morphometric analysis of the shell of the intertidal gastropod Echinolittorina lineolata (d'Orbigny, 1840) at different latitudes along the Brazilian coast
Authors: Matos Alisson Sousa , Matthews-Cascon Helena , Chaparro Oscar R.
Published: July 2020

Morphometric analysis is one of the tools widely used to quantify, analyse and describe the variations in the biological forms of animals. In this study, we examined the linear morphometric variations of the shell of the small intertidal gastropod Echinolittorina lineolata and compared the patterns to identify variations among populations and between sexes. The individuals were collected from latitudes 3°S, 14°S, 21°S and 23°S along the Brazilian coast. Traditional morphometric analysis was performed, and the morphometric variables of the shells, namely, the length and width of the shell and the length and width of the shell opening were obtained. The observed size pattern was influenced by latitude, as well as by local spatial responses to factors such as the substrate changing the morphometric variables of the snail. Of the morphometric variables, the length and the width of the shell were the most representative variables that influenced the gastropods in the different latitudes. These variables were also different in males and females, with females having larger shell lengths and widths across all latitudes.
Component Detection and Evaluation Framework (CDEF): A Semantic Annotation Tool
Authors: Jessurun Nathan , Paradis Olivia , Roberts Alexandra , Asadizanjani Navid
Published: July 2020

Image labeling is the process of manually assigning a class to subregions within an image for machine learning applications. When these subregions are complex shapes, this process is known as semantic segmentation. We propose a new software application, the Component Detection and Evaluation Framework (CDEF), for creating such semantic labels. The benefits of CDEF over existing tools are highlighted, and further improvements are proposed.
Toward a clinical model for patient spiritual journeys in supportive and palliative care: Testing a concept of human spirituality and associated recursive states
Authors: Johnson Rebecca , Hauser Joshua , Emanuel Linda
Published: July 2020

Objective

In 2015, a Chaplaincy Research Consortium generated a model of human spirituality in the palliative care context to further chaplaincy research. This article investigates the clinical fit of (a) the model's fundamental premise of universal human spirituality and (b) its 4 proposed stage descriptors (Discovery,Dialogue,Struggle, andArrival).

Method

First, we collected qualitative data from an interdisciplinary palliative care focus group. Participants (n= 5) shared responses to the statement “the human spirit has essential commonalities across [ … ] groups and [ … ] attributes.”Participants also shared vignettes of spiritual care, and 48 vignettes illustrating patients’ spiritual journeys were subsequently taken from the transcript of that group. Second, we invited different mixed discipline palliative care professionals (n= 9) to individually card sort these vignettes to the model's 4 stage descriptors; we conducted pattern analysis on the results. We then administered a third step, convening six physicians to complete the card sort again, this time allowing designation of cards to one or two of the 4 stage descriptors.

Results

Focus group participants were supportive of the model's all-encompassing definition of spirituality. The concept of “connectedness” was a shared focus for all participants, connectedness and spirituality appearing almost synonymous. Pattern analysis of assigned 48 vignettes to the 4 stages showed stronger consensus aroundDiscoveryandArrivalthanStruggleandDialogue. Results of the additional card sort suggestedStruggleandDialogueinvolve oscillation and are harder to think of as a steady state as distinct from processes associated withDiscoveryorArrival.

Significance of results

“Connectedness” is a productive concept for modeling human spiritual experience near the end of life. As one healthcare professional said: “this connectedness piece is [ … ] what I always look for … ” Although further work is needed to understandstruggleanddialogueelements in peoples’ spiritual journeys, discovery andarrivalshared consensus among participants.
Women Leaders and Pandemic Performance: A Spurious Correlation
Authors: Piscopo Jennifer M.
Published: July 2020

The connection between women leaders and superior pandemic performance is likely spurious. This narrative overlooks that women currently govern precisely the kinds of countries that should mount effective pandemic responses: wealthy democracies with high state capacity. This article maps where women currently serve as presidents and prime ministers. The article then uses data from the Varieties of Democracy Project and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development to show that many women-led countries score high on state capacity and that high-capacity states have low coronavirus mortality regardless of whether they are led by women or by men. Arguments emphasizing women chief executives’ superior pandemic performance, while offered in good faith, are misleading.
Pandemic Performance: Women Leaders in the COVID-19 Crisis
Authors: Aldrich Andrea S. , Lotito Nicholas J.
Published: July 2020

Media outlets have reported that women leaders around the globe are managing the COVID-19 crisis better than their male counterparts, responding faster and communicating better about pandemic policies. In this article, we examine empirical data on the timing of policy responses from the Coronavirus Government Response Tracker to determine whether and how countries led by women reacted differently to the pandemic. Exploring the relationship between the gender of leaders and legislators and the timing of stay-at-home orders, school closures, and coordinated public information campaigns, we find no statistical evidence supporting popular claims in the media. However, we find some evidence that the level of gender equality in legislatures is related to school closures, a policy with clear gendered consequences. These conclusions are an important first step in understanding the potentially gendered nature of the crisis response and identifying new avenues for research.
A tribute to the foot soldiers: European health agencies in the fight against antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Deruelle Thibaud
Published: July 2020

The prevention of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has been a flagship of the EU's health policy since the early 2000s, leading the European Commission to mandate three European agencies to cooperate in the fight against AMR: EMA (the European Medicines Agency), ECDC (European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control) and EFSA (the European Food Safety Agency). This article is at the intersection of EU health policy and the burgeoning scholarship on bureaucratic reputation. Little is known on the role played by reputational incentives on inter-agency cooperation. This empirical work supports the claim that cooperation creates incentives for agencies to protect their reputational uniqueness vis-à-vis each other. However, rather than threatening their cooperation, it amounts to a process of sense-making of their respective roles in the integrated fight against AMR. Evidence is generated through the agencies' textual sources, as well as in-depth interviews and analysed through a narrative analysis. From the early days of inter-agency cooperation, to recent legislative work, this paper offers in-depth insights on the EU's governance against AMR.
High efficiency continuous mode RF power amplifier based on second and third harmonic manipulation
Authors: Ali Firas M. , Al-Muifraje Mahmuod H. , Saeed Thamir R.
Published: July 2020

Continuous mode class-J radio-frequency (RF) power amplifier is a promising technique that extends the operating bandwidth of the conventional class-B power amplifier. However, the maximum theoretical efficiency is limited to that of the class-B power amplifier. In this paper, an enhanced mode of operation for the class-J power amplifier is proposed by incorporating a third harmonic voltage component to produce an optimum waveform for maximizing the fundamental voltage component and thereby to increase the drain efficiency and introduce a new design space. A detailed derivation for the necessary relations of output power, drain efficiency, and the required harmonic load impedances is provided, showing a significant improvement in theoretical maximum efficiency from 78.5 to 89.8%. In order to confirm the developed analytic approach, a 10 W prototype amplifier model was designed and fabricated to operate within the global system for mobile communications (GSM) frequency band 850–950 MHz using a commercial GaN power high electron mobility transistor (HEMT). The experimental results have indicated that the drain efficiency of the circuit varies from 68 to 80% within the desired band.
Phase noise performance stabilization of PLL system under dynamic vibration condition for airborne applications
Authors: Kumar Vipin , Sivakumar R. , Jayasheela C. S. , Sarkar Mahadev , Singh Shailendra
Published: July 2020

The purpose of this paper is to disclose improved crystal based frequency source system covering design techniques and experimental methodologies for the stabilization of phase noise performance of X-band phase-locked loop (PLL) at 10.6 GHz. Phase noise performance of PLL-based unit under test (UUT) is prone to disturbance occurred in random vibration profile frequency spectrum. UUT self-resonance plays vital role in occurrence of disturbance in random vibration profile. The stabilization of phase noise performance during dynamic (random) vibration condition is achieved by following methodologies, i.e. vibration-isolator compensation techniques, purification tactic for reference crystal of PLL, and spatial location analysis for finding out mounting position of reference crystal. Spatial analysis helps to filter out UUT self-resonance frequency from random vibration spectrum which leads to reduction of frequency resonance pickups during random vibration testing.
Postprandial glycemia and insulin secretion following glutamine administration: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Mansour Asieh , Mohajeri-Tehrani Mohammad Reza , Qorbani Mostafa , Ghamari Mahsa , Larijani Bagher , Hosseini Saeed
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Objective: The objective of the present study is to investigate the effects of glutamine administration on postprandial glycemia, insulin, and C-peptide concentration in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted on patients with type 2 diabetes so that 33 subjects were recruited in each group. The patients were randomly allocated to receive either 30 g/d glutamine or placebo (with instructions to take in half glass of ice-cold water 5 to 10 min before each main meal) for 6 weeks. Postprandial C-peptide, insulin, and glucose were measured at the baseline and at the end of the study at 30 and 90 min after consuming a meal comprising wheat-cake and reduced fat milk. Results: The repeated measures ANOVA revealed no significant difference between the groups for glucose and insulin after 6 weeks of intervention ( p > 0.05). However, C-peptide was reduced in both intervention groups at all measurement points. Between-group differences remained significant by the end of the study ( p = 0.02). Conclusions: Glutamine supplementation before each main meal does not represent an effective nutritional strategy to improve postprandial glycemic control or postprandial insulin secretion in type 2 diabetes patients.
Poor Acceptance of the Past is Related to Depressive Symptoms in Older Adults
Authors: Cetinkol Gozde , Bastug Gulbahar , Ozel Kizil E. Tugba
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Depression in older adults can be explained by Erikson’s theory on the conflict of ego integrity versus hopelessness. The study investigated the relationship between past acceptance, hopelessness, death anxiety, and depressive symptoms in 100 older (≥50 years) adults. The total Beck Hopelessness (BHS), Geriatric Depression (GDS), and Accepting the Past (ACPAST) subscale scores of the depressed group were higher, while the total Death Anxiety (DAS) and Reminiscing the Past (REM) subscale scores of both groups were similar. A regression analysis revealed that the BHS, DAS, and ACPAST predicted the GDS. Past acceptance seems to be important for ego integrity in older adults.
Acute Psychosocial Stress Modulates the Detection Sensitivity for Facial Emotions
Authors: von Dawans Bernadette , Spenthof Ines , Zimmer Patrick , Domes Gregor
Published: July 2020

Abstract. Psychosocial stress has been shown to alter social perception and behavior. In the present study, we investigated whether a standardized psychosocial stressor modulates the perceptual sensitivity for positive and negative facial emotions and the tendency to allocate attention to facial expressions. Fifty-four male participants underwent the Trier Social Stress Test for Groups (TSST-G) or a nonstressful control condition before they performed a facial emotions detection task and a facial dot-probe task to assess attention for positive and negative facial expressions. Saliva samples were collected over the course of the experiment to measure free cortisol and alpha amylase. In response to the TSST-G, participants showed marked increases in subjective stress, salivary cortisol, and alpha amylase compared to the control condition. In the control condition, detection performance was higher for angry compared to happy facial expressions, while in the stressful condition this difference was reversed. Here, participants were more sensitive to happy compared to angry facial expressions. Attention was unaffected by psychosocial stress. The results suggest that psychosocial stress shifts social perception in terms of detection sensitivity for facial expressions toward positive social cues, a pattern that is consistent with the tendency to seek social support for coping with stress.
Central Sympathetic Nervous System Effects on Cognitive-Motor Performance
Authors: Finke Johannes B. , Schächinger Hartmut
Published: July 2020

Abstract. The intriguing interplay between acute stress physiology and cognitive processes has long been noted. However, while stress-induced release of glucocorticoids has repeatedly been shown to impact brain mechanisms underlying cognition and memory, less experimental research addressed the effects of stress-induced central sympathetic nervous system (SNS) activation on cognitive performance. Moreover, despite the long-standing notion that the way performance is modulated by arousal may crucially depend on task complexity, mechanistic research demonstrating a direct, causal influence of altered SNS activity is scarce. Twelve healthy men participated in a placebo-controlled, pharmacologic dose–response study involving three within-subject assessments (1-week intervals). Subjective and objective indices of SNS activity as well as reaction time (RT) in three different tasks varying in cognitive demand (simple RT, choice RT, and verbal RT in complex mental arithmetic) were assessed during modulation of central SNS tone by intravenous infusions of dexmedetomidine (alpha2-agonist), yohimbine (alpha2-antagonist), and placebo. Cognitive performance was negatively affected by alpha2-agonism in all task conditions. By contrast, administration of yohimbine improved simple RT, while diminishing complex RT, supporting the assumption of a nonlinear way of action depending on task characteristics. Our results highlight the consequences of central (noradrenergic) SNS activation for cognitive-motor performance in RT tasks of varying complexity.
The Deflection of Coronal Mass Ejections by the Ambient Coronal Magnetic Field Configuration
Authors: Wang Jingjing , Hoeksema J. Todd , Liu Siqing
Published: July 2020

Solar coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are sometimes deflected during their propagation. This deflection may be the consequence of an interaction between the CME and the ambient coronal field, for example, a coronal hole, or the solar wind. The coronal magnetic field configuration is computed from daily synoptic maps of magnetic field from SOHO/MDI and SDO/HMI using a Potential Field Source Surface model. We analyze 30 halo‐CMEs whose deflection angle exceeds 90° by comparing the ambient magnetic field configuration and the measurement position angles of the CMEs. We find that the deflection of 87% of the CMEs (26 of 30) is consistent with the ambient magnetic field configuration, agreeing with previous studies. Of these 26, 69% are deflected toward the heliospheric current sheet, the boundary between the magnetic field polarities, and 31% toward a pseudo‐streamer, the boundary between same‐polarity magnetic field regions. This implies that the ambient coronal magnetic field configuration plays an important role in the deflection of CMEs and that the current sheet configuration is more important than a pseudo‐streamer. Of the 26 CMEs, the average and standard deviation of the minimum values of the deflection angle in three dimensions relative to an initially radial trajectory are 28° and 14°, respectively.
Improved Near‐Surface Continental Climate in IPSL‐CM6A‐LR by Combined Evolutions of Atmospheric and Land Surface Physics
Authors: Cheruy Frédérique , Ducharne Agnès , Hourdin Frédéric , Musat Ionela , Vignon Étienne , Gastineau Guillaume , Bastrikov Vladislav , Vuichard Nicolas , Diallo Binta , Dufresne Jean‐Louis , Ghattas Josefine , Grandpeix Jean‐Yves , Idelkadi Abderrahmane , Mellul Lidia , Maignan Fabienne , Ménégoz Martin , Ottlé Catherine , Peylin Philippe , Servonnat Jérôme , Wang Fuxing , Zhao Yanfeng
Published: July 2020

This work is motivated by the identification of the land‐atmosphere interactions as one of the key sources of uncertainty in climate change simulations. It documents new developments in related processes, namely, boundary layer/convection/clouds parameterizations and land surface parameterization in the Earth System Model of the Institut Pierre Simon Laplace (IPSL). Simulations forced by prescribed oceanic conditions are produced with different combinations of atmospheric and land surface parameterizations. They are used to explore the sensitivity to the atmospheric physics and/or soil physics of

major biases in the near surface variables over continents,

the energy and moisture coupling established at the soil/atmosphere interface in not too wet (energy limited) and not too dry (moisture limited) soil moisture regions also known as transition or “hot‐spot” regions,

the river runoff at the outlet of major rivers.

The package implemented in the IPSL‐Climate Model for the Phase 6 of the Coupled Models Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) allows us to reduce several biases in the surface albedo, the snow cover, and the continental surface air temperature in summer as well as in the temperature profile in the surface layer of the polar regions. The interactions between soil moisture and atmosphere in hotspot regions are in better agreement with the observations. Rainfall is also significantly improved in volume and seasonality in several major river basins leading to an overall improvement in river discharge. However, the lack of consideration of floodplains and human influences in the model, for example, dams and irrigation, impacts the realism of simulated discharge.
Understanding Alkalinity to Quantify Ocean Buffering
Authors: Middelburg Jack , Soetaert Karline , Hagens Mathilde
Published: July 2020

Ocean alkalinity plays a major role in ocean’s carbon uptake, in buffering, and in calcium carbonate production and dissolution, and it impacts and is affected by various biogeochemical processes.
Sudden Oak Death Taking a Toll on U.S. West Coast
Authors: Wheeling Kate
Published: July 2020

Researchers have been modeling effects of the plant pathogen Phytophthora ramorum on coastal forests in California and Oregon since it arrived on the West Coast 3 decades ago.
A Deep Learning‐Based Approach for Modeling the Dynamics of AMPERE Birkeland Currents
Authors: Kunduri B. S. R. , Maimaiti M. , Baker J. B. H. , Ruohoniemi J. M. , Anderson B. J. , Vines S. K.
Published: July 2020

The existence of Birkeland magnetic field‐aligned current (FAC) system was proposed more than a century ago, and it has been of immense interest for investigating the nature of solar wind‐magnetosphere‐ionosphere coupling ever since. In this paper, we present the first application of deep learning architecture for modeling the Birkeland currents using data from the Active Magnetosphere and Planetary Electrodynamics Response Experiment (AMPERE). The model uses a 1‐hr time history of several different parameters such as interplanetary magnetic field (IMF), solar wind, and geomagnetic and solar indices as inputs to determine the global distribution of Birkeland currents in the Northern Hemisphere. We present a comparison between our model and bin‐averaged statistical patterns under steady IMF conditions and also when the IMF is variable. Our deep learning model shows good agreement with the bin‐averaged patterns, capturing several prominent large‐scale features such as the Regions 1 and 2 FACs, the NBZ current system, and the cusp currents along with their seasonal variations. However, when IMF and solar wind conditions are not stable, our model provides a more accurate view of the time‐dependent evolution of Birkeland currents. The reconfiguration of the FACs following an abrupt change in IMF orientation can be traced in its details. The magnitude of FACs is found to evolve with e‐folding times that vary with season and MLT. When IMF Bz turns southward after a prolonged northward orientation, NBZ currents decay exponentially with an e‐folding time of ∼25 min, whereas Region 1 currents grow with an e‐folding time of 6–20 min depending on the MLT.
Hydraulic Transport Through Calcite Bearing Faults With Customized Roughness: Effects of Normal and Shear Loading
Authors: Acosta Mateo , Maye Robin , Violay Marie
Published: July 2020

Understanding fluid flow in rough fractures is of high importance to large scale geologic processes and to most anthropogenic geo‐energy activities. Here we conducted fluid transport experiments on Carrara marble fractures with a novel customized surface topography. Transmissivity measurements were conducted under mechanical loading conditions representative of deep geothermal reservoirs (normal stresses from 20 to 70 MPa and shear stresses from 0 to 30 MPa). A numerical procedure simulating normal contact and fluid flow through fractures with complex geometries was validated toward experiments. Using it, we isolated the effects of roughness parameters on fracture fluid flow. Under normal loading, we find that (i) the transmissivity decreases with normal loading and is strongly dependent on fault surface geometry and (ii) the standard deviation of heights (hRMS) and macroscopic wavelength of the surface asperities control fracture transmissivity. Transmissivity evolution is nonmonotonic, with more than 4 orders of magnitude difference for small variations of macroscopic wavelength and hRMS roughness. Reversible elastic shear loading has little effect on transmissivity; it can increase or decrease depending on contact geometry and overall stress state on the fault. Irreversible shear displacement (up to 1 mm offset) slightly decreases transmissivity and its variation with irreversible shear displacements can be predicted numerically and geometrically at low normal stress only. Finally, irreversible changes in surface roughness (plasticity and wear) due to shear displacement result in a permanent decrease of transmissivity when decreasing differential stress. Generally, reduction of a carbonate fault's effective stress increases its transmissivity while inducing small shear displacements does not.
Developing a Policy, and Professional Development for School Staff, to Address and Respond to Nonsuicidal Self-Injury in Schools
Authors: Hasking Penelope A. , Bloom Elana , Lewis Stephen P. , Baetens Imke
Published: July 2020

Nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) can be a perplexing behavior: Why would someone deliberately damage their body to feel relief? Often starting in early adolescence, up to 1 in 5 high school students report engaging in the behavior. School staff (principals, teachers, and mental health professionals) are understandably concerned and have been calling for clear guidelines regarding how best to address and respond to NSSI. Based on the current evidence, we argue that schools need to develop a policy for NSSI and implement professional training for staff, which includes professional development and training, protocols for appropriate referrals of students, strategies for responding effectively to NSSI disclosures, safely discussing NSSI with students to minimize socialization effects, and a protocol for family and parent/caregiver engagement. We call on all schools, and school boards, to develop their own local policy, based on the guidelines we present in this policy brief.
The myth of pulmonary metastasectomy
Authors: Macbeth Fergus , Fallowfield Lesley
Published: July 2020

Pulmonary metastasectomy is widely and increasingly practiced in the belief that this intervention can cure patients with colorectal cancer, and that without it few survive 5 years. No good evidence exists supporting such convictions, indeed recent trial results challenge them. What evidence underpins this acceptance of illusory truths or misconceptions?
Integrated clinico-molecular profiling of appendiceal adenocarcinoma reveals a unique grade-driven entity distinct from colorectal cancer
Authors: Raghav Kanwal , Shen John P. , Jácome Alexandre A. , Guerra Jennifer L. , Scally Christopher P. , Taggart Melissa W. , Foo Wai C. , Matamoros Aurelio , Shaw Kenna R. , Fournier Keith , Overman Michael J. , Eng Cathy
Published: July 2020

Background

Appendiceal adenocarcinoma (AA) is an orphan disease with unique clinical attributes but often treated as colorectal cancer (CRC). Understanding key molecular differences between AA and CRC is critical.

Methods

We performed retrospective analyses of AA patients (N = 266) with tumour and/or blood next-generation sequencing (NGS) (2013–2018) with in-depth clinicopathological annotation. Overall survival (OS) was examined. For comparison, CRC cohorts annotated for sidedness, consensus molecular subtypes (CMS) and mutations (N = 3283) were used.

Results

Blood-NGS identified lessRAS/GNASmutations compared to tissue-NGS (4.2% vs. 60.9%,P < 0.0001) and showed poor concordance with tissue for well-/moderately differentiated tumours.RAS(56.2%),GNAS(28.1%) andTP53(26.9%) were most frequent mutations. Well/moderately differentiated tumours harboured moreRAS(69.2%/64.0% vs. 40.5%) andGNAS(48.7%/32.0% vs. 10.1%) while moderate/poorly differentiated tumours had moreTP53(26.0%/27.8% vs. 7.7%) mutations. Appendiceal adenocarcinoma (compared to CRC) harboured significantly fewerAPC(9.1% vs. 55.4%) andTP53(26.9% vs. 67.5%) and moreGNASmutations (28.1% vs. 2.0%) (P < 0.0001). Appendiceal adenocarcinoma mutation profile did not resemble either right-sided CRC or any of the four CMS in CRC. High grade, but no mutation, was independently predictive of survival.

Conclusion

Integrated clinico-molecular profiling of AA identified key molecular drivers distinct from CRC. Appendiceal adenocarcinoma has a predominantly grade-driven biology that trumps mutations.
Circ-GLI1 promotes metastasis in melanoma through interacting with p70S6K2 to activate Hedgehog/GLI1 and Wnt/β-catenin pathways and upregulate Cyr61
Authors: Chen Jun , Zhou Xiaobo , Yang Jie , Sun Qilin , Liu Yang , Li Ningli , Zhang Zhen , Xu Hui
Published: July 2020

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are emerging regulators in the development of human cancers. However, the role of circRNAs in melanoma is poorly understood. Microarray analysis and qRT-PCR was applied to screen out circRNAs that were differentially expressed in melanoma cells compared to normal cells. Currently, we first proved that inhibition of CYR61, an angiogenesis factor with controversial functions in melanoma, restrained cell migration, invasion and angiogenesis in melanoma. Thereafter, a novel circRNA hsa_circ_0027247 derived from GLI1 (circ-GLI1) was identified to positively modulate CYR61 expression in melanoma cell lines. Besides, silencing circ-GLI1 hindered melanoma cell metastasis as well. Interestingly, we unveiled that circ-GLI1 enhanced CYR61 transcription by an indirect manner. Meanwhile, circ-GLI1 activated Hedgehog/GLI1 and Wnt/β-catenin pathways by affecting the degradation of GLI1 and β-catenin. Moreover, we found that circ-GLI1 interacted with p70S6K2 to induce GSK3β phosphorylation at Ser9, and therefore blocked the binding of GSK3β with GLI1 and β-catenin so as to elevate their protein expression. Of note, CYR61 was transcriptionally activated by MYC, a well-recognized downstream target of both GLI1 and β-catenin. In conclusion, circ-GLI1 exacerbates the metastasis and angiogenesis of melanoma by upregulating Cyr61 via p70S6K2-dependent activation of Hedgehog/GLI1 and Wnt/β-catenin pathways.
Alpha-lipoic acid protects against pressure overload-induced heart failure via ALDH2-dependent Nrf1-FUNDC1 signaling
Authors: Li Wenjia , Yin Lei , Sun Xiaolei , Wu Jian , Dong Zhen , Hu Kai , Sun Aijun , Ge Junbo
Published: July 2020

Alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA), a well-known antioxidant, was proved to active ALDH2 in nitrate tolerance and diabetic animal model. However, the therapeutic advantage of α-LA for heart failure and related signaling pathway have not been explored. This study was designed to examine the role of α-LA–ALDH2 in heart failure injury and mitochondrial damage. ALDH2 knockout (ALDH2−/−) mice and primary neonatal rat cardiomyocytes (NRCMs) were subjected to assessment of myocardial function and mitochondrial autophagy. Our data demonstrated α-LA significantly reduced the degree of TAC-induced LV hypertrophy and dysfunction in wild-type mice, not in ALDH2−/− mice. In molecular level, α-LA significantly restored ALDH2 activity and expression as well as increased the expression of a novel mitophagy receptor protein FUNDC1 in wild-type TAC mice. Besides, we confirmed that ALDH2 which was activated by α-LA governed the activation of Nrf1–FUNDC1 cascade. Our data suggest that α-LA played a positive role in protecting the heart against adverse effects of chronic pressure overload.
Long non-coding RNA MIR22HG promotes osteogenic differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells via PTEN/ AKT pathway
Authors: Jin Chanyuan , Jia Lingfei , Tang Zhihui , Zheng Yunfei
Published: July 2020

Osteoporosis is a prevalent metabolic bone disease characterized by low bone mineral density and degenerative disorders of bone tissues. Previous studies showed the abnormal osteogenic differentiation of endogenous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) contributes to the development of osteoporosis. However, the underlying mechanisms by which BMSCs undergo osteogenic differentiation remain largely unexplored. Recently, long non-coding RNAs have been discovered to play important roles in regulating BMSC osteogenesis. In this study, we first showed MIR22HG, which has been demonstrated to be involved in the progression of several cancer types, played an important role in regulating BMSC osteogenesis. We found the expression of MIR22HG was significantly decreased in mouse BMSCs from the osteoporotic mice and it was upregulated during the osteogenic differentiation of human BMSCs. Overexpression of MIR22HG in human BMSCs enhanced osteogenic differentiation, whereas MIR22HG knockdown inhibited osteogenic differentiation both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, MIR22HG promoted osteogenic differentiation by downregulating phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) and therefore activating AKT signaling. Moreover, we found MIR22HG overexpression promoted osteoclastogenesis of RAW264.7 cells, which indicated that MIR22HG played a significant role in bone metabolism and could be a therapeutic target for osteoporosis and other bone-related diseases.