bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of unsteady secondary flows and large-scale turbulence in heterogeneous turbulent boundary layers
Authors: Wangsawijaya D.D. , Hutchins N.
Published: January 2022

Following the findings by Wangsawijaya et al. (J. Fluid Mech., vol. 894, 2020, A7), we re-examine the turbulent boundary layers developing over surfaces with spanwise heterogeneous roughness of various roughness half-wavelengths $0.32 \leq S/\bar {\delta } \leq 3.63$, where $S$ is the width of the roughness strips and $\bar {\delta }$ is the spanwise-averaged boundary-layer thickness. The heterogeneous cases induce counter-rotating secondary flows, and these are compared with the large-scale turbulent structures that occur naturally over the smooth wall. Both appear as meandering elongated high- and low-momentum streaks in the instantaneous flow field. Results based on the triple decomposed velocity fluctuations suggest that the secondary flows are spanwise-locked turbulent structures, with $S/\bar {\delta }$ governing the strength of the turbulent structures and the efficacy of the surface in locking the structures in place (most effective when $S/\bar {\delta } \approx 1$). In terms of unsteadiness, we find additional evidence from conditional averages of the fluctuating velocity fields showing that the secondary flows exhibit maximum unsteadiness (or meandering) when $S/\bar {\delta } \approx 1$. The conditional averages of both spanwise heterogeneous and smooth-wall cases result in structures that are reminiscent of those proposed for the streak-vortex instability model for the inner cycle of wall-bounded turbulence. However, in this case these structures are larger and do not necessarily share the same formation mechanism with the inner cycle. Secondary flows and large-scale structures coexist in the limits where either $S/\bar {\delta } \gg 1$ or $S/\bar {\delta } \ll 1$, where the secondary flows scale on $\delta$ or $S$, respectively. When $S/\bar {\delta } \gg 1$, the secondary flows are locked about the roughness transition, while relatively unaltered large-scale structures occur further from the transition. In the case where $S/\bar {\delta } \ll 1$, $S$-scaled secondary flows are confined close to the surface, coexisting with unaltered larger-scale turbulent structures that penetrate much deeper into the layer.
PRE-MODERN INSIGHTS FOR POST-MODERN PRIVACY: JEWISH LAW LESSONS FOR THE BIG DATA AGE
Authors: Bamberger Kenneth A. , Mayse Ariel Evan
Published: January 2022

This article makes the counterintuitive argument that the millennia-old approach of Jewish law to regulating surveillance, protecting communications, and governing collection and use of information offers important frameworks for protecting privacy in an age of big data and pervasive surveillance. The modern approach to privacy has not succeeded. Notions of individual “rights to be let alone” and “informational self-determination” offer little defense against rampant data collection and aggregation. The substantive promise of a “fundamental human right” of privacy has largely been reduced to illusory procedural safeguards of “notice” and “consent”—manipulable protections by which individuals “agree” to privacy terms with little understanding of the bargain and little power to opt out. Judaism, on the other hand, views privacy as a societal obligation and employs categorical behavioral and architectural mandates that bind all of society's members. It limits waiver of these rules and rejects both technological capacity and the related notion of “expectations” as determinants of privacy's content. It assumes the absence of anonymity and does not depend on the confidentiality of information or behavior, whether knowledge is later used or shared, or whether the privacy subject can show concrete personal harm. When certain types of sensitive information are publicly known or cannot help but be visible, Jewish law still provides rules against their use. Jewish law offers a language that can guide policy debates. It suggests a move from individual control over information as the mechanism for shaping privacy's meaning and enforcement, to a regime of substantive obligations—personal and organizational—to protect privacy. It recognizes the interconnected nature of human interests and comprehends the totality of the harm that pervasive surveillance wreaks on individuals and social relations. It offers a conceptual basis for extending traditional privacy protections to online spaces and new data uses. And it provides a language of dignity that recognizes unequal bargaining power, rejects the aggregation and use of information to create confining personal narratives and judgments, and demands equal protection for all humans.
Exchangeable and sampling-consistent distributions on rooted binary trees
Authors: Hollering Benjamin , Sullivant Seth
Published: January 2022

We introduce a notion of finite sampling consistency for phylogenetic trees and show that the set of finitely sampling-consistent and exchangeable distributions on n-leaf phylogenetic trees is a polytope. We use this polytope to show that the set of all exchangeable and sampling-consistent distributions on four-leaf phylogenetic trees is exactly Aldous’ beta-splitting model, and give a description of some of the vertices for the polytope of distributions on five leaves. We also introduce a new semialgebraic set of exchangeable and sampling consistent models we call the multinomial model and use it to characterize the set of exchangeable and sampling-consistent distributions. Using this new model, we obtain a finite de Finetti-type theorem for rooted binary trees in the style of Diaconis’ theorem on finite exchangeable sequences.
Observations on the trophodynamics of sawtooth barracuda,Sphyraena putnamaefrom the Bay of Bengal, northern Indian Ocean
Authors: Ghosh Shubhadeep , Hoshalli Munivenkatappa Manas , Rohit Prathibha , Mamidi Satishkumar , Eruppakkottil Median Abdussamad , Achamveetil Gopalakrishnan
Published: January 2022

Marine capture ofSphyraena putnamaealong western Bay of Bengal has been increasing. Owing to scarcity of information available on feeding dynamics globally, the present study was conducted using 763 individuals captured during 2017–19, to decipher trophic ecology and relationships. Of the individuals analysed, 54.8% had their stomachs either empty or with trace amounts of food, 27.3% had part-full stomachs and 18.0% had full stomachs. Stomach vacuity and fullness as well as predator–prey weight ratio varied with increase in body size, implying higher feeding intensity in large-sized fishes. Feeding activity was highest during July–November and lowest during March–April. The species is an opportunistic piscivorous pelagic predator that feeds on teleosts (>85%) and cephalopods. Sardines were the major prey, followed by whitebait, squid, bigeye scad, Indian scad, silverbellies and Indian mackerel. Diet contents were similar between sexes (82.17%); however, it varied among seasons (56.86–69.85%). Shifts in prey preferences from sardines, squid and bigeye scad to ribbonfish, shad, grunter, Indian mackerel, horse mackerel andAceteswere observed with increase in fish size, and diet varied between individuals sized <60.0 and >60.0 cm. Trophic level value was 3.51 ± 0.13 and Levin's Standardized Niche Breadth Index was 0.21. Dietary niche breadth varied across seasons and sizes, with higher values during summer and winter (0.36–0.41) and in fish measuring >45.0 cm (0.50–0.68), which implies generalized feeding behaviour. The present study represents the first detailed report on the diet ofS. putnamaeand will provide a substantial contribution to stock management through understanding of trophic interactions.
Molecular phylogenetic analysis of Neodiplostomum and Fibricola (Digenea, Diplostomidae) does not support host-based systematics
Authors: Achatz Tyler J. , Pulis Eric E. , Woodyard Ethan T. , Rosser Thomas G. , Martens Jakson R. , Weinstein Sara B. , Fecchio Alan , McAllister Chris T. , Carrión Bonilla Carlos , Tkach Vasyl V.
Published: January 2022

Fibricola and Neodiplostomum are diplostomid genera with very similar morphology that are currently separated based on their definitive hosts. Fibricola spp. are normally found in mammals, while Neodiplostomum spp. typically parasitize birds. Previously, no DNA sequence data was available for any member of Fibricola. We generated nuclear ribosomal and mtDNA sequences of Fibricola cratera (type-species), Fibricola lucidum and 6 species of Neodiplostomum. DNA sequences were used to examine phylogenetic interrelationships among Fibricola and Neodiplostomum and re-evaluate their systematics. Molecular phylogenies and morphological study suggest that Fibricola should be considered a junior synonym of Neodiplostomum. Therefore, we synonymize the two genera and transfer all members of Fibricola into Neodiplostomum. Specimens morphologically identified as Neodiplostomum cratera belonged to 3 distinct phylogenetic clades based on mitochondrial data. One of those clades also included sequences of specimens identified morphologically as Neodiplostomum lucidum. Further study is necessary to resolve the situation regarding the morphology of N. cratera. Our results demonstrated that some DNA sequences of N. americanum available in GenBank originate from misidentified Neodiplostomum banghami. Molecular phylogentic data revealed at least 2 independent host-switching events between avian and mammalian hosts in the evolutionary history of Neodiplostomum; however, the directionality of these host-switching events remains unclear.
Bengal Regulation 10 of 1804 and Martial Law in British Colonial India
Authors: Downs Troy
Published: January 2022

This article examines the East India Company's Bengal Regulation 10 of 1804, a legal statute that enabled martial law to be enforced by the in British colonial India. The use made of this little studied yet significant emergency regulation, its perceived legal deficiencies, and in particular, the discord that arose between the military and civil authorities over how and who should be administer it will be discussed with reference to the promulgation of martial law by the British during the Cuttack Uprising of 1857, the Indian “Mutiny” or Revolt of 1857, and in response to the civil unrest in the Punjab during 1919. While martial law was itself ring fenced by legislation that determined the legal grounds for its inauguration and for its cessation, the implementation of martial law by the British military forces in India was marked by the absence of law.
Beyond social and functional interpretations of wall paintings: mythological imagery in the tablinum at Pompeii and Herculaneum
Authors: Spinelli Ambra
Published: January 2022

This paper investigates the mythological wall paintings decorating the room known as the tablinum in atrium houses at Pompeii and Herculaneum. Scholars have considered the tablinum part of the “public” section of the house and have linked this room to the formal morning greeting, or salutatio, despite the fact that no ancient literary source mentions the tablinum in connection with this daily ritual. These assumptions have conditioned the way in which scholars have interpreted the decoration, which is analyzed in relation to the social activities supposedly associated with this type of room or discussed in terms of moral ideals and social values. This study demonstrates that the figurative imagery within the tablinum does not necessarily relate to social practices in that space but instead informs us about a common visual vocabulary shared by different strata of society.
The impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on human psychology and physical activity; a space analogue research perspective
Authors: Van Cutsem Jeroen , Abeln Vera , Schneider Stefan , Keller Nathan , Diaz-Artiles Ana , Ramallo Miguel A. , Dessy Emilie , Pattyn Nathalie , Ferlazzo Fabio , De La Torre Gabriel G.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Astronauts will encounter isolated, confined and extreme (ICE) conditions during future missions, and will have to be able to adapt. Until recently, however, few places on Earth could serve as acceptable space analogues (i.e., submarine and polar regions). The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19)-related lockdowns around the globe provided a good opportunity to obtain more comprehensive datasets on the impact of prolonged isolation on human functioning in a very large sample.

Methods

Seven hundred forty-eight individuals (Belgium 442, Spain 183, Germany 50, Italy 50, US 23; Mean age ± SD: 41 ± 14 years, with an age range of 18–83 years; 66% women) filled out an online survey assessing the impact of the COVID-lockdown on psychological, exercise and general health variables a first time near the beginning of the initial lockdown (hereafter ‘T1’; 24 ± 13 days after the start of the first lockdown; i.e., 3 weeks after the start of the first lockdown) and a second time a couple of weeks thereafter (hereafter ‘T2’; 17 ± 5 days after the first online survey; i.e., 6 weeks after the start of the first lockdown).

Results

From T1 to T2 an improvement of subjective sleep quality was observed (P = 0.003), that was related to an increase in subjective sleep efficiency and a decrease in sleep latency and disturbance (P ≤ 0.013). Weekly sitting time decreased, and the weekly amount of moderate and vigorous physical activity increased from T1 to T2 (P ≤ 0.049). No differences from T1 to T2 were observed in terms of mood, loneliness and state anxiety. A lower amount of sitting time was significantly correlated with improved subjective sleep quality (r = 0.096, P = 0.035) and with an increased amount of moderate (r = −0.126, P = 0.005) and vigorous (r = −0.110, P = 0.015) physical activity.

Conclusion

Compared to 3 weeks into the first COVID-imposed lockdown, 6-weeks after the start of the first COVID-imposed lockdown, physical activity and subjective sleep scores were positively impacted. The present, large sample size study further confirms exercise as a worthwhile countermeasure to psycho-physiological deconditioning during confinement.
Recontextualizing Brahms'sHandel Variations, Op. 24 through Robert Volkmann and Emanuel Moór
Authors: Chang Joanna
Published: January 2022

Brahms'sHandel Variations, Op. 24 (1861) stands out for its direct quotation of the Baroque master's Harpsichord Suite No. 1 in B-flat (HWV434), as well as its treatment of the theme in ‘old forms’. While the composer's knowledge of antiquated forms finds expression through canonic treatment, a siciliano, musette and fugal finale, the 25 variations written in the strict Baroque variation style further underscore his commitment to tradition.

Several earlier revivals of Handel include settings by Louis Spohr, Ignaz Moscheles and Robert Volkmann of Handel's familiar ‘Harmonious Blacksmith’ tune. In 1856, Volkmann treated the theme to the fantasy variation, winning approval from performers and critics alike. Unnoticed, however, was the finale's remarkable modernization of Baroque keyboard styles through the revival of harpsichord texture, timbre, harmony, rhythm and melodic figurations. The unprecedented fidelity to the keyboard medium, literature, as well as expressive modes deserves a re-evaluation in relation to Brahms's setting.

Brahms's return to the Baroque style variation served as a model for later composers. One case study is that by the neglected Hungarian composer Emanuel Moór (1863–1931). A former student of Volkmann and an ardent admirer of Brahms, Moór composed his Variations and Fugue on a Hungarian Theme. Op. 24 in 1890, which coincidentally bears the same opus number, as well as a Baroque fugal finale. This article examines Brahms's musical predecessors in the Handel revival, as well as his influence on Moór, allowing us to reassess the historical context and import of Brahms's Handel Variations, Op. 24.
Using Community Science to Better Understand Lead Exposure Risks
Authors: Dietrich Matthew , Shukle John T. , Krekeler Mark P. S. , Wood Leah R. , Filippelli Gabriel M.
Published: January 2022

Lead (Pb) is a neurotoxicant that particularly harms young children. Urban environments are often plagued with elevated Pb in soils and dusts, posing a health exposure risk from inhalation and ingestion of these contaminated media. Thus, a better understanding of where to prioritize risk screening and intervention is paramount from a public health perspective. We have synthesized a large national data set of Pb concentrations in household dusts from across the United States (U.S.), part of a community science initiative called “DustSafe.” Using these results, we have developed a straightforward logistic regression model that correctly predicts whether Pb is elevated (>80 ppm) or low (<80 ppm) in household dusts 75% of the time. Additionally, our model estimated 18% false negatives for elevated Pb, displaying that there was a low probability of elevated Pb in homes being misclassified. Our model uses only variables of approximate housing age and whether there is peeling paint in the interior of the home, illustrating how a simple and successful Pb predictive model can be generated if researchers ask the right screening questions. Scanning electron microscopy supports a common presence of Pb paint in several dust samples with elevated bulk Pb concentrations, which explains the predictive power of housing age and peeling paint in the model. This model was also implemented into an interactive mobile app that aims to increase community‐wide participation with Pb household screening. The app will hopefully provide greater awareness of Pb risks and a highly efficient way to begin mitigation.
Are Low‐Frequency Earthquake Moments Area‐ or Slip‐Limited? A Rock Record Examination
Authors: Williams Randolph T. , Kirkpatrick James D.
Published: January 2022

The seismic moments observed for low‐frequency earthquakes (LFEs) vary over multiple orders of magnitude, even where the LFEs occur within families of similar events. Although this variability is typically interpreted to record a scale‐limited process at the LFE source, neither the slip per LFE nor the rupture area can be determined from seismological constraints. Here, we examine incrementally developed slickenfibers that have been proposed to record LFEs in exhumed subduction zones. These structures form through repeated, micron‐scale slip events across dilational irregularities in the fault plane, which are punctuated by cementation and sealing in the interstitial space. By statistically analyzing the geometry of inclusion trails delineating slip‐parallel mineral‐growth increments, we constrain the variability in slip per inferred LFE and test end‐member hypotheses regarding the controls on LFE moments. We find that that the slickenfibers exhibit characteristic slip increments, favoring a “slip‐limited” model that requires large variability in LFE rupture areas.
Detecting Supercooled Water Clouds Using Passive Radiometer Measurements
Authors: Zhou Ganning , Wang Jianjie , Yin Yan , Hu Xiuqing , Letu Husi , Sohn Byung‐Ju , Yung Yuk L. , Liu Chao
Published: January 2022

Supercooled water clouds (SWCs) have significant impacts on the Earth's radiation balance, aircraft ice accretion and precipitation augmentation. This study introduces an efficient algorithm to detect SWCs from passive radiometers, which combines information from the reflectance difference between 1.61 and 2.25 μm channels, the brightness temperature difference between the 8.5 and 11 μm channels, and the cloud top temperature. Validated by space radar and lidar measurements, our algorithm can correctly detect 91% of SWC pixels, better than current Visible Infrared Imager Radiometer Suite operational product. SWCs are found mostly over the mid‐ to high‐latitude oceans and have a global occurrence frequency of ∼8% in cloudy skies. Since the channels used for the detection are available in most current operational polar and geostationary satellite radiometers, this SWC detection algorithm can be easily implemented for operations such as cloud monitoring, aviation safety, and SWC‐related weather modification.
Early Winter Triggering of the Maud Rise Polynya
Authors: Zhou Lu , Heuzé Céline , Mohrmann Martin
Published: January 2022

What triggers Maud Rise polynya, a large opening in the winter Antarctic sea ice, is still debated. We show that the upcoming opening of all Maud Rise polynyas can be detected in early winter up to four months ahead, especially since the 2002 expansion in satellite observations. In all polynya years, continuous anomalous sea ice thinning begins in May, caused by atmospheric and oceanic forcings. Dynamically, an anomalous cyclonic circulation in the atmosphere and the ocean strengthens the Weddell Gyre and exerts anomalously intense stresses on the ice. Thermodynamically, the warm water advected by the intensified circulation, and most importantly entrained into the mixed layer, thins the ice from below at the beginning of the freezing season, preconditioning the region for a polynya event months later. This four‐month‐ahead pattern enables early predictions of the polynya, and improved expedition planning and sensor deployment.
Oblique Convergence Causes Both Thrust and Strike‐Slip Ruptures During the 2021 M 7.2 Haiti Earthquake
Authors: Okuwaki Ryo , Fan Wenyuan
Published: January 2022

A devastating magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Southern Haiti on 14 August 2021. The earthquake caused severe damage and over 2000 casualties. Resolving the earthquake rupture process can provide critical insights into hazard mitigation. Here we use integrated seismological analyses to obtain the rupture history of the 2021 earthquake. We find the earthquake first broke a blind thrust fault and then jumped to a disconnected strike‐slip fault. Neither of the fault configurations aligns with the left‐lateral tectonic boundary between the Caribbean and North American plates. The complex multi‐fault rupture may result from the oblique plate convergence in the region, so that the initial thrust rupture is due to the boundary‐normal compression and the following strike‐slip faulting originates from the Gonâve microplate block movement, orienting SW‐NE direction. The complex rupture development of the earthquake suggests that the regional deformation is accommodated by a network of segmented faults with diverse faulting conditions.
An Anti‐Phase Relationship Between the Subtropical Underwater and Eastern Subtropical Mode Water in the South Pacific During 2004–2020
Authors: Wang Yingying , Qu Tangdong , Luo Yiyong , Fine Rana A.
Published: January 2022

Using the Roemmich‐Gilson Argo data set, this study investigates variability of the Subtropical Underwater (STUW) and eastern Subtropical Mode Water (ESTMW) in the South Pacific during 2004–2020. The STUW volume decreased during 2004–2013 and increased during 2013–2020, while the volume of the ESTMW shows the opposite phase. On interannual time scales, there is also a significant negative correlation in volume between the STUW and ESTMW. This anti‐phase relationship is attributed to changes in their volumetric subduction rates, which are in turn closely related to variability in the mixed layer depth (MLD). ENSO directly contributes to variability of the subduction rates by modifying the MLD. Equatorward propagation of spiciness anomalies is identified along isopycnal surfaces of the STUW and ESTMW cores. These spiciness anomalies in the downstream region are correlated with changes in volume of both water masses, and significant spiciness anomalies can reach the tropical Pacific.
Upwind Droughts Enhance Half of the Heatwaves Over North China
Authors: Zhou Shiyu , Yuan Xing
Published: January 2022

Antecedent or concurrent drought conditions are recognized as important factors for triggering or intensifying heatwaves through local land‐atmosphere interaction, but recent studies show nonlocal effects for a few mega‐heatwaves. To quantify the impacts of upwind droughts on all related heatwaves, a Lagrangian heat tracing model driven by reanalysis data is employed over North China, a region influenced by monsoon and westerly significantly. Through analyzing 17 major heatwaves over North China during 1979–2019, we find eight of them are significantly enhanced by upwind droughts. The advected sensible heat that results from circulation anomalies and upwind soil moisture droughts contributes to 71% of the heat for heatwaves. For eight drought‐related heatwave events, the upwind soil droughts from southern and western source regions contribute to 67.9% of the heat anomalies, with 3/5 of them coming from the south. This study suggests that upwind droughts are important for early warning and adaptation for heatwaves.
Lithospheric Erosion in the Patagonian Slab Window, and Implications for Glacial Isostasy
Authors: Mark Hannah F. , Wiens Douglas A. , Ivins Erik R. , Richter Andreas , Ben Mansour Walid , Magnani M. Beatrice , Marderwald Eric , Adaros Rodrigo , Barrientos Sergio
Published: January 2022

The Patagonian slab window has been proposed to enhance the solid Earth response to ice mass load changes in the overlying Northern and Southern Patagonian Icefields (NPI and SPI, respectively). Here, we present the first regional seismic velocity model covering the entire north‐south extent of the slab window. A slow velocity anomaly in the uppermost mantle indicates warm mantle temperature, low viscosity, and possibly partial melt. Low velocities just below the Moho suggest that the lithospheric mantle has been thermally eroded over the youngest part of the slab window. The slowest part of the anomaly is north of 49°S, implying that the NPI and the northern SPI overlie lower viscosity mantle than the southern SPI. This comprehensive seismic mapping of the slab window provides key evidence supporting the previously hypothesized connection between post‐Little Ice Age anthropogenic ice mass loss and rapid geodetically observed glacial isostatic uplift (≥4 cm/yr).
Seismic Anisotropy and Intraslab Hydrated Faults Beneath the NE Japan Forearc
Authors: Wang Zewei , Zhao Dapeng , Chen Xiaofei
Published: January 2022

The water cycle in subduction zones is closely related to the generation of large earthquakes and arc magmas. Outer‐rise hydrated faults subducting with the oceanic lithosphere are suspected to be important for the water cycle. However, geophysical evidence for the intraslab hydrated faults beneath forearc is scarce. Here we present high‐resolution P‐wave anisotropic tomography of the Tohoku forearc derived from arrival‐time data recorded at both onshore and offshore seismic stations. Trench‐parallel intraslab fast velocity planes of anisotropy are revealed that intersect the slab upper surface at high angles (∼45°–90°), reflecting aligned hydrated faults in the slab. Ruptures of the hydrated faults may cause large intraslab earthquakes. The hydrated‐fault associated water entering a large near‐trench asperity in the megathrust zone could have triggered the great 2011 Tohoku‐oki earthquake (Mw 9.0).
Spurious Late Historical‐Era Warming in CESM2 Driven by Prescribed Biomass Burning Emissions
Authors: Fasullo J. T. , Lamarque Jean‐Francois , Hannay Cecile , Rosenbloom Nan , Tilmes Simone , DeRepentigny Patricia , Jahn Alexandra , Deser Clara
Published: January 2022

A spurious increase in the interannual variability of prescribed biomass burning (BB) emissions in the CMIP6 forcing database during the satellite era of wildfire monitoring (1997–2014) is found to lead to warming in the Northern Hemisphere extratropics in simulations with the Community Earth System Model version 2 (CESM2). Using targeted sensitivity experiments with the CESM2 in which prescribed BB emissions are homogenized and variability is removed, we show that the warming is specifically attributable to BB variability from 40° to 70°N and arises from a net thinning of the cloud field and an associated increase in absorbed solar radiation. Our results also demonstrate the potential pitfalls of introducing discontinuities in climate forcing data sets when trying to incorporate novel observations.
Tibetan Plateau Temperature Extreme Changes and Their Elevation Dependency From Ground‐Based Observations
Authors: Yang Keke , Guo Donglin , Hua Wei , Pepin Nick , Yang Kun , Li Duo
Published: January 2022

Temperature extremes have widespread implications for maintenance of the solid water reservoir on the Tibetan Plateau (TP), but their changing spatiotemporal patterns and elevation dependence have not been well understood. Using observations at 124 stations, this study shows that the TP as a whole has experienced increasing intensities/frequencies of warm extremes (0.37°C decade−1/2.4% decade−1) and decreasing intensities/frequencies of cold extremes (0.59°C decade−1/2.4% decade−1) during 1973–2018, and that these changes strengthen as regional mean warming intensifies. Unlike extreme high temperature, trends in extreme low temperature depend strongly on elevation, and the temporal evolution of such elevation‐dependency is dominated by rapid snow decline in high altitudes caused by regional mean warming. The stronger regional mean warming, the more significant elevation dependency of trends in extreme low temperatures. These results indicate that TP extreme temperature changes, especially at higher elevations, will become more significant in a warmer future, which has important implications for the ecosystems dependent on high‐elevation water resources.
Amazon Water Cycle Observed from Space
Authors: Fassoni-Andrade Alice , Papa Fabrice , Paiva Rodrigo , Wongchuig Sly , Fleischmann Ayan
Published: January 2022

Satellite observations offer invaluable insights into hydrological processes and environmental change in the Amazon.
Understanding Rare Rain Events in the Driest Desert on Earth
Authors: Cerf Emily
Published: January 2022

A new study reveals the atmospheric paths of storm events that can deliver a decade’s worth of rain in a few hours to the Atacama Desert.
Soil Texture Affects How Carbon Is Stored Underground
Authors: Kornei Katherine
Published: January 2022

Using measurements from more than 9,300 soil samples collected worldwide, researchers have shown that carbon storage in soils is affected by both air temperature and soil texture.
Thermal stress triggers productive viral infection of a key coral reef symbiont
Authors: Grupstra Carsten G B , Howe-Kerr Lauren I , Veglia Alex J , Bryant Reb L , Coy Samantha R , Blackwelder Patricia L , Correa Adrienne M S
Published: January 2022

Climate change-driven ocean warming is increasing the frequency and severity of bleaching events, in which corals appear whitened after losing their dinoflagellate endosymbionts (family Symbiodiniaceae). Viral infections of Symbiodiniaceae may contribute to some bleaching signs, but little empirical evidence exists to support this hypothesis. We present the first temporal analysis of a lineage of Symbiodiniaceae-infecting positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses (“dinoRNAVs”) in coral colonies, which were exposed to a 5-day heat treatment (+2.1 °C). A total of 124 dinoRNAV major capsid protein gene “aminotypes” (unique amino acid sequences) were detected from five colonies of two closely related Pocillopora-Cladocopium (coral-symbiont) combinations in the experiment; most dinoRNAV aminotypes were shared between the two coral-symbiont combinations (64%) and among multiple colonies (82%). Throughout the experiment, seventeen dinoRNAV aminotypes were found only in heat-treated fragments, and 22 aminotypes were detected at higher relative abundances in heat-treated fragments. DinoRNAVs in fragments of some colonies exhibited higher alpha diversity and dispersion under heat stress. Together, these findings provide the first empirical evidence that exposure to high temperatures triggers some dinoRNAVs to switch from a persistent to a productive infection mode within heat-stressed corals. Over extended time frames, we hypothesize that cumulative dinoRNAV production in the Pocillopora-Cladocopium system could affect colony symbiotic status, for example, by decreasing Symbiodiniaceae densities within corals. This study sets the stage for reef-scale investigations of dinoRNAV dynamics during bleaching events.
Immunogenic cell death and its therapeutic or prognostic potential in high-grade glioma
Authors: Decraene Brecht , Yang Yihan , De Smet Frederik , Garg Abhishek D. , Agostinis Patrizia , De Vleeschouwer Steven
Published: January 2022

Immunogenic cell death (ICD) has emerged as a key component of therapy-induced anti-tumor immunity. Over the past few years, ICD was found to play a pivotal role in a wide variety of novel and existing treatment modalities. The clinical application of these techniques in cancer treatment is still in its infancy. Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most lethal primary brain tumor with a dismal prognosis despite maximal therapy. The development of new therapies in this aggressive type of tumors remains highly challenging partially due to the cold tumor immune environment. GBM could therefore benefit from ICD-based therapies stimulating the anti-tumor immune response. In what follows, we will describe the mechanisms behind ICD and the ICD-based (pre)clinical advances in anticancer therapies focusing on GBM.
Automated quantification of levels of breast terminal duct lobular (TDLU) involution using deep learning
Authors: de Bel Thomas , Litjens Geert , Ogony Joshua , Stallings-Mann Melody , Carter Jodi M. , Hilton Tracy , Radisky Derek C. , Vierkant Robert A. , Broderick Brendan , Hoskin Tanya L. , Winham Stacey J. , Frost Marlene H. , Visscher Daniel W. , Allers Teresa , Degnim Amy C. , Sherman Mark E. , van der Laak Jeroen A. W. M.
Published: January 2022

Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) offer the potential to generate comprehensive quantitative analysis of histologic features. Diagnostic reporting of benign breast disease (BBD) biopsies is usually limited to subjective assessment of the most severe lesion in a sample, while ignoring the vast majority of tissue features, including involution of background terminal duct lobular units (TDLUs), the structures from which breast cancers arise. Studies indicate that increased levels of age-related TDLU involution in BBD biopsies predict lower breast cancer risk, and therefore its assessment may have potential value in risk assessment and management. However, assessment of TDLU involution is time-consuming and difficult to standardize and quantitate. Accordingly, we developed a CNN to enable automated quantitative measurement of TDLU involution and tested its performance in 174 specimens selected from the pathology archives at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN. The CNN was trained and tested on a subset of 33 biopsies, delineating important tissue types. Nine quantitative features were extracted from delineated TDLU regions. Our CNN reached an overall dice-score of 0.871 (±0.049) for tissue classes versus reference standard annotation. Consensus of four reviewers scoring 705 images for TDLU involution demonstrated substantial agreement with the CNN method (unweighted κappa = 0.747 ± 0.01). Quantitative involution measures showed anticipated associations with BBD histology, breast cancer risk, breast density, menopausal status, and breast cancer risk prediction scores (p < 0.05). Our work demonstrates the potential to improve risk prediction for women with BBD biopsies by applying CNN approaches to generate automated quantitative evaluation of TDLU involution.
A machine learning approach to map crystal orientation by optical microscopy
Authors: Wittwer Mallory , Seita Matteo
Published: January 2022

Mapping grain orientation in crystalline solids is essential to investigate the relationships between local microstructure and crystallography and interpret materials properties. One of the main techniques used to perform these studies is electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). Due to the limited measurement throughput, however, EBSD is not suitable for characterizing samples with long-range microstructure heterogeneity, nor for building large material libraries that include numerous specimens. We present a machine learning approach for high-throughput crystal orientation mapping, which relies on the optical technique called directional reflectance microscopy. We successfully apply our method on Inconel 718 specimens produced by additive manufacturing, which exhibit complex, spatially-varying microstructures. These results demonstrate that optical orientation mapping on a metal alloy is achievable. Since our method is data-driven, it can be easily extended to different alloy systems produced using different manufacturing processes.
Nodal multigap superconductivity in the anisotropic iron-based compound RbCa2Fe4As4F2
Authors: Torsello Daniele , Piatti Erik , Ummarino Giovanni Alberto , Yi Xiaolei , Xing Xiangzhuo , Shi Zhixiang , Ghigo Gianluca , Daghero Dario
Published: January 2022

The 12442 compounds are a recently discovered family of iron-based superconductors, that share several features with the cuprates due to their strongly anisotropic structure, but are so far poorly understood. Here, we report on the gap structure and anisotropy of RbCa2(Fe1−xNix)4As4F2 single crystals, investigated by a combination of directional point-contact Andreev-reflection spectroscopy and coplanar waveguide resonator measurements. Two gaps were identified, with clear signatures of d-wave-like nodal structures which persist upon Ni doping, well described by a two-band d − d state with symmetry-imposed nodes. A large London penetration depth anisotropy was revealed, weakly dependent on temperature and fully compatible with the d − d model.
mRNA booster immunization elicits potent neutralizing serum activity against the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant
Authors: Gruell Henning , Vanshylla Kanika , Tober-Lau Pinkus , Hillus David , Schommers Philipp , Lehmann Clara , Kurth Florian , Sander Leif E. , Klein Florian
Published: January 2022

The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 is causing a rapid increase in infections across the globe. This new variant of concern carries an unusually high number of mutations in key epitopes of neutralizing antibodies on the viral spike glycoprotein, suggesting potential immune evasion. Here we assessed serum neutralizing capacity in longitudinal cohorts of vaccinated and convalescent individuals, as well as monoclonal antibody activity against Omicron using pseudovirus neutralization assays. We report a near-complete lack of neutralizing activity against Omicron in polyclonal sera from individuals vaccinated with two doses of the BNT162b2 COVID-19 vaccine and from convalescent individuals, as well as resistance to different monoclonal antibodies in clinical use. However, mRNA booster immunizations in vaccinated and convalescent individuals resulted in a significant increase of serum neutralizing activity against Omicron. This study demonstrates that booster immunizations can critically improve the humoral immune response against the Omicron variant.
Source imaging of high-density visual evoked potentials with multi-scale brain parcellations and connectomes
Authors: Pascucci David , Tourbier Sebastien , Rué-Queralt Joan , Carboni Margherita , Hagmann Patric , Plomp Gijs
Published: January 2022

We describe the multimodal neuroimaging dataset VEPCON (OpenNeuro Dataset ds003505). It includes raw data and derivatives of high-density EEG, structural MRI, diffusion weighted images (DWI) and single-trial behavior (accuracy, reaction time). Visual evoked potentials (VEPs) were recorded while participants (n = 20) discriminated briefly presented faces from scrambled faces, or coherently moving stimuli from incoherent ones. EEG and MRI were recorded separately from the same participants. The dataset contains raw EEG and behavioral data, pre-processed EEG of single trials in each condition, structural MRIs, individual brain parcellations at 5 spatial resolutions (83 to 1015 regions), and the corresponding structural connectomes computed from fiber count, fiber density, average fractional anisotropy and mean diffusivity maps. For source imaging, VEPCON provides EEG inverse solutions based on individual anatomy, with Python and Matlab scripts to derive activity time-series in each brain region, for each parcellation level. The BIDS-compatible dataset can contribute to multimodal methods development, studying structure-function relations, and to unimodal optimization of source imaging and graph analyses, among many other possibilities.
Impact of regular additional endobiliary radiofrequency ablation on survival of patients with advanced extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma under systemic chemotherapy
Authors: Gonzalez-Carmona Maria A. , Möhring Christian , Mahn Robert , Zhou Taotao , Bartels Alexandra , Sadeghlar Farsaneh , Bolch Maximilian , Vogt Annabelle , Kaczmarek Dominik J. , Heling Dominik J. , Dold Leona , Nattermann Jacob , Branchi Vittorio , Matthaei Hanno , Manekeller Steffen , Kalff Jörg C. , Strassburg Christian P. , Mohr Raphael U. , Weismüller Tobias J.
Published: January 2022

Prognosis of patients with advanced extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (eCCA) is poor. The current standard first-line treatment is systemic chemotherapy (CT) with gemcitabine and a platinum derivate. Additionally, endobiliary radiofrequency ablation (eRFA) can be applied to treat biliary obstructions. This study aimed to evaluate the additional benefit of scheduled regular eRFA in a real-life patient cohort with advanced extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma under standard systemic CT. All patients with irresectable eCCA treated at University Hospital Bonn between 2010 and 2020 were eligible for inclusion. Patients were stratified according to treatment: standard CT (n = 26) vs. combination of eRFA with standard CT (n = 40). Overall survival (OS), progression free survival (PFS), feasibility and toxicity were retrospectively analyzed using univariate and multivariate approaches. Combined eRFA and CT resulted in significantly longer median OS (17.3 vs. 8.6 months, p = 0.004) and PFS (12.9 vs. 5.7 months, p = 0.045) compared to the CT only group. While groups did not differ regarding age, sex, tumor stage and chemotherapy treatment regimen, mean MELD was even higher (10.1 vs. 6.7, p = 0.015) in the eRFA + CT group. The survival benefit of concomitant eRFA was more evident in the subgroup with locally advanced tumors. Severe hematological toxicities (CTCAE grades 3 – 5) did not differ significantly between the groups. However, therapy-related cholangitis occurred more often in the combined treatment group (p = 0.031). Combination of eRFA and systemic CT was feasible, well-tolerated and could significantly prolong survival compared to standard CT alone. Thus, eRFA should be considered during therapeutic decision making in advanced eCCA.
Trehangelins ameliorate inflammation-induced skin senescence by suppressing the epidermal YAP-CCN1 axis
Authors: Yokota Mami , Kamiya Yoshiyuki , Suzuki Tamie , Ishikawa Shinsuke , Takeda Akira , Kondo Shinya , Tohgasaki Takeshi , Nakashima Takuji , Takahashi Yoko , Ōmura Satoshi , Sakurai Tetsuhito
Published: January 2022

Trehangelins (THG) are newly identified trehalose compounds derived from broth cultures of an endophytic actinomycete, Polymorphospora rubra. THG are known to suppress Cellular Communication Network factor 1 (CCN1), which regulates collagen homeostasis in the dermis. Although the physical properties of THG suggest a high penetration of the stratum corneum, the effect of THG on the epidermis has not been reported. Here we describe a possible mechanism involved in skin aging focusing on the effect of THG on epidermal CCN1. This study shows that: (1) THG suppress epidermal CCN1 expression by inhibiting the translocation of Yes-Associated Protein (YAP) to nuclei. (2) Epidermal CCN1, localized at the basement membrane, regulates the balance between the growth and differentiation of keratinocytes. (3) Keratinocytes secrete more CCN1 than fibroblasts, which leads to disruption of the basement membrane and extracellular matrix components. (4) The secretion of CCN1 from keratinocytes is increased by ultraviolet B exposure, especially in aged keratinocytes, and deteriorates the elastic fiber structures in the underlying dermis. (5) Topical application of THG ameliorates the structure of the basement membrane in ex vivo human skin explants. Taken together, THG might be a promising treatment for aged skin by suppressing the aberrant YAP-CCN1 axis.
Preparation and structures of PEBA gas separation membrane modified by fumed silica for oil vapor separation
Authors: Xu Rong , Wang Beifu , Cai Yuting
Published: January 2022

Composite membranes were fabricated with polyethersulfone as a microporous substrate and polyether block amide (PEBA) as a selective layer to achieve efficient recovery of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Fumed silica was mixed into PEBA for modification. The top thin layers with different percentage of fumed silica in PEBA were prepared by spin-coating. Structure and performance of membranes with and without a modification were characterized. The results showed that fumed silica in an ultra-thin selective layer significantly influenced the hydrophobicity of the membranes. The higher the content of fumed silica, the higher the hydrophobicity of the membranes was. The maximum content of added fumed silica was 0.6 wt%. When the proportion of fumed silica reached 0.6 wt%, the contact angle could reach 95.8°, which was 56% higher than that of the unmodified one. The structure of the membrane remained unchanged. Moreover, the separation performance was evaluated by removing VOCs from a mixture of oil vapor and nitrogen. The VOCs permeance tended to grow with an increase in the content of fumed silica. When the content was 0.6 wt%, the membrane exhibited better comprehensive performance. Its vapor flux rate was 117.8 ml/min, which was 153% higher than that without a modification. Its separation coefficients for ethane, propane, cyclopropane, isobutane and n-butane were 29.3, 29.9, 24.9, 30.7, and 34.0 respectively.
Early auditory responses to speech sounds in Parkinson’s disease: preliminary data
Authors: Mollaei Fatemeh , Shiller Douglas M. , Baum Shari R. , Gracco Vincent L.
Published: January 2022

Parkinson’s disease (PD), as a manifestation of basal ganglia dysfunction, is associated with a number of speech deficits, including reduced voice modulation and vocal output. Interestingly, previous work has shown that participants with PD show an increased feedback-driven motor response to unexpected fundamental frequency perturbations during speech production, and a heightened ability to detect differences in vocal pitch relative to control participants. Here, we explored one possible contributor to these enhanced responses. We recorded the frequency-following auditory brainstem response (FFR) to repetitions of the speech syllable [da] in PD and control participants. Participants with PD displayed a larger amplitude FFR related to the fundamental frequency of speech stimuli relative to the control group. The current preliminary results suggest the dysfunction of the basal ganglia in PD contributes to the early stage of auditory processing and may reflect one component of a broader sensorimotor processing impairment associated with the disease.