bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and rapid decalcificier solution for studying human temporal bones by immunofluorescence
Authors: Ghosh Sumana , Lewis Mark B. , Walters Bradley J.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

The pervasiveness of hearing loss and the development of new potential therapeutic approaches have led to increased animal studies of the inner ear. However, translational relevance of such studies depends upon verification of protein localization data in human samples. Cadavers used for anatomical education provide a potential research resource, but are limiting due to difficulties in accessing sensory tissues from the dense temporal bones. This study seeks to reduce the often months‐long process of decalcification and improve immunofluorescent staining of human cadaveric temporal bones for research use.

Methods

Temporal bones were decalcified in either (a) hydrochloric acid‐containing RDO solution for 2 days followed by 0.5 M ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) for 3 to 5 additional days, or (b) 0.5 M EDTA alone for 2 to 4 weeks. Image‐iT FX signal enhancer (ISE) was used to improve immunofluorescent signal‐to‐noise ratios.

Results

The data indicate that both methods speed decalcification and allow for immunolabeling of the extranuclear proteins neurofilament (heavy chain), myosin VIIa, oncomodulin and prestin. However, RDO decalcification was more likely to alter structural morphology of sensory tissues and hindered effective labeling of the nuclear proteins SRY‐box transcription factor 2 and GATA binding protein 3.

Conclusions

Although both approaches allow for rapid decalcification, EDTA appears superior to RDO for preserving cytoarchitecture and immunogenicity.

Level of evidence

NA.
The safety of in‐office laryngologic procedures during active antithrombotic therapy
Authors: Straub Jeffrey M. , Calamari Kevin A. , Shin Timothy J. , Janse Sarah A. , Forrest Lowell A. , deSilva Brad W. , Matrka Laura A.
Published: September 2020

Objectives

To determine whether patients undergoing in‐office laryngologic procedures on antithrombotic therapy are at increased risk for treatment‐related complications.

Methods

Patients were those who underwent at least one in‐office laryngologic procedure with any of three fellowship‐trained laryngologists. Procedures were identified by current procedural terminology (CPT) code and included biopsies, excisions, laser ablations, and injections (therapeutic and augmentative). Patients were divided into two groups based on the use of antithrombotic therapy at the time of their procedure. Retrospective chart review was performed to identify any complications, with an average follow‐up of 186 days.

Results

Five hundred‐sixty‐four unique individuals were identified with ages ranging from 18 to 93 years old and with a relatively even distribution between females (45%) and males (55%). They underwent 647 procedures in total, 310 of which were performed while on some form of antithrombotic therapy. Sixteen procedures were associated with complications either during or after the procedure. In comparing overall complication rates, there was no significant difference between non‐antithrombotic (2.4%) and antithrombotic (3.3%) cohorts (OR 1.09, 95% CI [0.46‐2.60], P = .8454).

Conclusions

In spite of known risks in other settings, antithrombotic agents do not appear to confer increased risk of treatment‐related complications during in‐office laryngologic procedures, obviating the need for cessation of therapy prior to these interventions.

Level of evidence

4.
Spatial and temporal variations of bacterioplankton in the Chesapeake Bay: A re‐examination with high‐throughput sequencing analysis
Authors: Wang Hualong , Zhang Chuanlun , Chen Feng , Kan Jinjun
Published: September 2020

Chesapeake Bay is a large, dynamic, and productive temperate estuary, which plays an important role in transporting terrestrial materials into the Atlantic Ocean. The bacterioplankton communities experience strong environmental changes both seasonally and along the central axis of the Bay. The goal of this study was to explore the spatiotemporal and interannual patterns of the bacterioplankton communities in the estuary using high‐throughput sequencing of 16S rRNA genes. Deep sequencing uncovered many new bacterial groups not found in earlier studies, and showed that Chesapeake Bay contained highly diverse and dynamic bacterial communities. Bacterioplankton in the Bay in summer and autumn were more diverse and stable than those in winter and spring. The spatial pattern was overruled by strong temporal variations when the samples from all seasons were analyzed together. But, the spatial trend became more visible when samples were analyzed separately in individual seasons. Bacterial diversity indices decreased from the upper Bay to lower Bay. The spatial and temporal distributions of bacterioplankton were best explained by variations of salinity and temperature. In addition, nutrient availability (nitrogen and phosphorus), chlorophyll a, and light availability also contributed significantly to the spatiotemporal variation. Despite the interannual variation of the bacterioplankton communities, a stable and reoccurring spatiotemporal pattern was observed in the Chesapeake Bay, suggesting limited functional redundancy for planktonic estuarine microbiomes. Our results highlight the resilience of the planktonic bacterial communities in estuaries with long residence time, and different bacterial groups have unique responses/adaptation to dynamic environmental gradients.
Using chlorophyll fluorescence kinetics to determine photosynthesis in aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Gorbunov Maxim Y. , Falkowski Paul G.
Published: September 2020

Variable fluorescence techniques are increasingly used to assess phytoplankton photosynthesis. All fluorescence techniques and models for photosynthetic electron transport rates (ETRs) are amplitude‐based and are subject to errors, especially when phytoplankton growth is nutrient‐limited. Here we develop a new, kinetic‐based approach to measure, directly and in absolute units, ETRs and to estimate growth rates in phytoplankton. We applied this approach to investigate the effects of nitrogen limitation on phytoplankton photophysiology and growth rates. Nutrient stress leads to a decrease in the quantum yield of photochemistry in Photosystem II (Fv/Fm); however, the relationship between Fv/Fm and growth rates is highly nonlinear, which makes it impossible to quantify the reduction in phytoplankton growth rates from Fv/Fm alone. In contrast, the decline in growth rates under nitrogen stress was proportional to the decrease in kinetic‐based photosynthetic rates. Our analysis suggests the kinetic fluorescence measurements markedly improve the accuracy of ETR measurements, as compared to classical amplitude‐based measurements. Fluorescence‐based methods for primary production rely on measurements of ETRs and then conversion to carbon fixation rates by using the electron yields of carbon fixation. The electron yields exhibit 10‐fold variability in natural phytoplankton communities and are strongly affected by nutrient limitation. Our results reveal that a decrease in the growth rates and the electron yields of carbon fixation is driven by, and can be quantified from, a decrease in photosynthetic turnover rates. We propose an algorithm to deduce the electron yields of carbon fixation, which greatly improve fluorescence‐based measurements of primary production and growth rates.
Sustainable, Site‐Specific Linkage of Antimicrobial Peptides to Cotton Textiles
Authors: Scapin Stefano , Formaggio Fernando , Glisenti Antonella , Biondi Barbara , Scocchi Marco , Benincasa Monica , Peggion Cristina
Published: September 2020

A new general method to covalently link a peptide to cotton via thiazolidine ring formation is developed. Three different analogues of an ultrashort antibacterial peptide are synthesized to create an antibacterial fabric. The chemical ligation approach to the heterogeneous phase made up of insoluble cellulose fibers and a peptide solution in water is adapted. The selective click reaction occurs between an N‐terminal cysteine on the peptide and an aldehyde on the cotton matrix. The aldehyde is generated on the primary alcohol of glucose by means of the enzyme laccase and the cocatalyst 2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidine‐1‐oxyl. This keeps the pyranose rings intact and may bring a benefit to the mechanical properties of the fabric. The presence of the peptide on cotton is demonstrated through instant colorimetric tests, UV spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. The antibacterial activity of the peptides is maintained even after their covalent attachment to cotton fibers.
Macrophase versus Microphase Separation in Solutions of Block Copolymers: Lifshitz Line in the Energetic Parameter's Space
Authors: Kriksin Yury , Erukhimovich Igor
Published: September 2020

The aim of this work is an in‐depth study of the stability of solutions of block copolymers with respect to both micro‐ and macrophase separation. For this purpose the correlation functions of block copolymers of various architectures are calculated as well as the critical values ​​of the wave number and Flory Huggins parameter at which a certain type of separation are estimated. As the result, the Lifshitz lines are built. Unlike some preceding papers dealing with the Lifshitz lines in the space of some thermodynamic parameters like polymer volume fraction, temperature, and composition, this consideration here concerns the space of some energetic (molecular) parameters related to the Flory–Huggins interaction parameters. In other words, this study answers a non‐trivial problem in which repeated units are to be chosen to synthesize such a block copolymer of a given architecture that its phase separation in a prescribed (micro‐ or macro) way would be guaranteed. A method is proposed for calculating the Lifshitz lines delimiting the regions of macro‐ and microphase separation in solutions of both diblock copolymers and copolymers of a more complex architecture.
Hemiplegic Migraine in Glut1 Deficiency Syndrome and Paroxysmal Dyskinesia at Ketogenic Diet Induction: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Gburek‐Augustat Janina , Heinze Anja , Abou Jamra Rami , Merkenschlager Andreas
Published: September 2020

Background

A rare symptom of Glut1 deficiency syndrome (Glut1 DS) is hemiplegic migraine (HM).

Case

We report a patient with Glut1 DS with a mild phenotype. His leading symptom was HM. As an unusual complication of the initiation of a ketogenic diet (KD), our patient developed paroxysmal nonkinesigenic dyskinesia. Paroxysmal dyskinesia occurred first and exclusively at the initiation of KD.

Literature Review

There are a few case reports for HM in Glut1 DS. All patients had additional neurological symptoms. Regarding central nervous system symptoms such as paroxysmal dyskinesia triggered by KD, we found only 1 other case report.

Discussion

HM is part of the symptom complex of Glut1 DS and can be effectively treated by KD. Paroxysmal dyskinesia trigged by the initiation of KD should not lead to the discontinuation of the diet in Glut1 DS.
The recent outbreaks of human coronaviruses: A medicinal chemistry perspective
Authors: Pillaiyar Thanigaimalai , Wendt Lukas L. , Manickam Manoj , Easwaran Maheswaran
Published: September 2020

Coronaviruses (CoVs) infect both humans and animals. In humans, CoVs can cause respiratory, kidney, heart, brain, and intestinal infections that can range from mild to lethal. Since the start of the 21st century, three β‐coronaviruses have crossed the species barrier to infect humans: severe‐acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)‐CoV‐1, Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)‐CoV, and SARS‐CoV‐2 (2019‐nCoV). These viruses are dangerous and can easily be transmitted from human to human. Therefore, the development of anticoronaviral therapies is urgently needed. However, to date, no approved vaccines or drugs against CoV infections are available. In this review, we focus on the medicinal chemistry efforts toward the development of antiviral agents against SARS‐CoV‐1, MERS‐CoV, SARS‐CoV‐2, targeting biochemical events important for viral replication and its life cycle. These targets include the spike glycoprotein and its host‐receptors for viral entry, proteases that are essential for cleaving polyproteins to produce functional proteins, and RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase for viral RNA replication.
Identification of a missense ARSA mutation in metachromatic leukodystrophy and its potential pathogenic mechanism
Authors: Guo Liyuan , Jin Bo , Zhang Yidan , Wang Jing
Published: September 2020

Background

Metachromatic leukodystrophy (MLD) is a rare inherited lysosomal disorder caused by mutations in ARSA. The biological processes of MLD disease caused by candidate pathogenic mutations in the ARSA gene remain unclear.

Methods

We used whole‐exome sequencing (WES) and Sanger sequencing to identify the pathogenic mutation in a Chinese family. Literature review and protein three‐dimensional structure prediction were performed to analyze the potential pathogenesis of the identified mutations. Overexpression cell models of wild‐type and mutated ARSA genes were constructed. The accumulated sulfatides and expression profiles in the cell models were detected, and a series of bioinformatics analyses were carried out to compare the biological changes caused by the candidate pathogenic mutations.

Results

We identified an ARSA c.925G>A homozygous mutation from a Chinese late‐infantile MLD patient, the first report of this mutation in East Asia. The literature and protein structure analysis indicated that three types of mutations at c.925G (c.925G>A, c.925G>T, c.925G>C) were pathogenic. The overexpression of wild‐type or mutated ARSA genes influenced the accumulation of sulfatides. The co‐expression modules in the mutated cell models were constructed by genes related to calcium signaling and vesicle transport.

Conclusion

Our results identified a pathogenic mutation, ARSA homozygosity c.925G>A, from a Chinese MLD family. The pathogenic mechanism of the ARSA mutation in MLD was identified, which may suggest new approaches to diagnosis and treatment.
A spectral collocation method for nonlinear fractional initial value problems with nonsmooth solutions
Authors: Yan Rian , MA Qiang , Ding Xiaohua , Qin Wendi
Published: September 2020

A general class of nonlinear fractional differential equations is considered. Some sufficient conditions for the existence and uniqueness of exact solution are established by using Weissinger's fixed point theorem and the Gronwall‐Bellman lemma. A spectral collocation method based on the smoothing technique is presented to solve the problem numerically. Then the rigorous error estimates under the L2 and L∞ norms are derived. The most remarkable feature of the method is its capability to achieve spectral convergence for weakly singular solutions. Finally, numerical results are given to support the theoretical conclusions with smooth and weakly singular solutions.
Exact traveling wave solutions of Chaffee–Infante equation in (2 + 1)‐dimensions and dimensionless Zakharov equation
Authors: Tahir Muhammad , Kumar Sunil , Rehman Hamood , Ramzan Muhammad , Hasan Ahmad , Osman Mohamed S.
Published: September 2020

In this work, the generalized Kudryashov method is used to obtain the exact traveling wave solutions for two important nonlinear evolution equations, the Chaffee–Infante equation in (2 + 1)‐dimensions and the dimensionless Zakharov equation. The generalized Kudryashov method is successfully used for getting exact solutions of these nonlinear equations in the form of exponential function solutions and hyperbolic function solutions. Moreover, we have discussed the dynamical behaviors through graphical representation of the solutions obtained in this way.
Investigation of a system of nonlinear fractional order hybrid differential equations under usual boundary conditions for existence of solution
Authors: Shah Anwar , Khan Rahmat Ali , Khan Aziz , Khan Hasib , Gómez‐Aguilar José Francisco
Published: September 2020

This research work is related to investigate sufficient conditions for existence, uniquely of solution to a coupled system of nonlinear fractional order hybrid differential equations (NFOHDEs). With the help of Burton's fixed point theorem, we develop the required conditions for existence of at least one solution to the considered problem of NFOHDEs.
Dual‐frequency magneto‐dielectric resonator antenna based in a YIG matrix with control of HEM11δ and TE01δ modes
Authors: da Costa Andrécia P. , Fontgalland Glauco , Neto Alfrêdo G. , Sombra Antônio S. B. , do Valle Rômulo R. M.
Published: September 2020

This work presents a magneto‐dielectric cylindrical resonator antenna (MDCRA) based on the YIG matrix, presenting two relevant new features. The first feature is to allow independent control of modes and the second one a dual‐band response. The MDCRA has two distinct propagation modes HEM11δ (5.78 GHz) and TE01δ (6.75 GHz) which can be controlled independently. The magneto‐dielectric resonator is manufactured using the magnetic ceramic material originated from the ferrites (Yttrium Iron Garnet, YIG) of composition Y3Fe2(FeO4)3, which is placed on low cost FR4 dielectric substrate. The microstrip feeding mechanism design assures the decoupling of the two modes by using orthogonal microstrip lines. The proposed MDCRA antenna was designed, fabricated, and then characterized inside an anechoic chamber. The scattering S‐parameters were analyzed in the frequency bands from 4.9 GHz to 7.6 GHz, with results within the expected range. The 2‐D and 3‐D radiation patterns are also presented. The validation was carried out with analytical mathematical equations, numerical formulation using the commercial CST Studio software, and experimental results, which shows a good agreement.
Molecular correlates of MRS‐based 31phosphocreatine muscle resynthesis rate in healthy adults
Authors: Darpolor Moses M. , Singh Maninder , Covington Jeffrey , Hanet Sebastian , Ravussin Eric , Carmichael Owen T.
Published: September 2020

Dynamic phosphorus MRS (31P‐MRS) is a method used for in vivo studies of skeletal muscle energetics including measurements of phosphocreatine (PCr) resynthesis rate during recovery of submaximal exercise. However, the molecular events associated with the PCr resynthesis rate are still under debate. We assessed vastus lateralis PCr resynthesis rate from 31P‐MRS spectra collected from healthy adults as part of the CALERIE II study (caloric restriction), and assessed associations between PCr resynthesis and muscle mitochondrial signature transcripts and proteins (NAMPT, NQO1, PGC‐1α, and SIRT1). Regression analysis indicated that higher concentration of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) protein, a mitochondrial capacity marker, was associated with faster PCr resynthesis. However, PCr resynthesis was not associated with greater physical fitness (VO2 peak) or messenger ribonucleic acid levels of mitochondrial function markers such as NQO1, PGC‐1α, and SIRT1, suggesting that the impact of these molecular signatures on PCr resynthesis may be minimal in the context of an acute exercise bout. Together, these findings suggest that 31P‐MRS based PCr resynthesis may represent a valid non‐invasive surrogate marker of mitochondrial NAMPT in human skeletal muscle.
Numerical solution of the multiterm time‐fractional diffusion equation based on reproducing kernel theory
Authors: Hemati Farshad , Ghasemi Mehdi , Khoshsiar Ghaziani Reza
Published: September 2020

In this study, we present an efficient computational method for finding approximate solution of the multi term time‐fractional diffusion equation. The approximate solution is presented in the form of a finite series in a reproducing kernel Hilbert space. The convergence of proposed method is studied under some hypothesis which provides the theoretical basis of proposed method for solving the considered equation. Finally, some numerical experiments are considered to examine the efficiency of proposed method in the sense of accuracy and CPU time.
Enamel hypoplasia in African enslaved individuals from Valle da Gafaria, Lagos, Portugal (15th–17th centuries)
Authors: Wasterlain Sofia N. , Rufino Ana Isabel , Carvalho Liliana M. , Ferreira Maria Teresa
Published: September 2020

Dental enamel hypoplasia, a defect of enamel formation, has been widely used for the investigation of growth disruptions in past populations, as it provides a permanent record of disturbances occurring during an individual's development. With the aim of recording changes in health status during development of the African enslaved individuals recovered from Valle da Gafaria, Lagos, Portugal (15th–17th centuries), linear enamel hypoplastic defects were investigated in a sample of 78 individuals aged 12–40+ years old. Of the 744 anterior teeth present, 13.0% were not observable due to dental calculus, tooth wear or intentional modifications. In all, 647 teeth were macroscopically observed for the presence of dental enamel defects. The position of each defect on the crown was scored by measuring its distance to the cemento‐enamel junction on the labial surface of the crown, being the age of occurrence of the physiological stress thereafter calculated. Of the 78 individuals, 89.7% had at least one defect. Of the 647 teeth, 63.5% presented at least one defect. The age of occurrence of the physiological stress ranged between 1.5 and 5.2 years of age, and the mean peak age was between 3.3 and 3.7 years. A previous study has found that the non‐adult individuals of this skeletal assemblage died more frequently between 7 and 9 years. Although these two age ranges may represent distinct sets of adverse factors, such as weaning and workload, respectively, they reinforce the idea that the Lagos's individuals experienced harsh living conditions during childhood.
Technological innovation and environmental quality nexus in India: Does inward remittance matter?
Authors: Villanthenkodath Muhammed Ashiq , Mahalik Mantu Kumar
Published: September 2020

This article examines the relationships between technological innovation and environmental quality in India relying on the availability of annual data from 1980 to 2018. Both inward remittances and economic growth are also considered as key determinants in CO2 emissions and technological innovation functions. The result from utilizing autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bounds testing cointegration approach indicates the existence of long‐run relationship between the series. The combined cointegration test is also used as a result robust checking and validating the long‐run relationship. While considering the carbon dioxide emissions function, the findings document that technological innovation and economic growth degrade environmental quality in India via promoting atmospheric emissions in the long‐run, whereas U‐shaped relationship between inward remittances and carbon dioxide emissions is established. Further considering the technological innovation function, findings clearly indicate that both carbon dioxide emissions and economic growth promote the new technological innovation in the long‐run and also fails to confirm the inverted U‐shaped relationship between remittances inflows and technological innovation. On the policy front, we suggest that technological innovation should be made eco‐friendly and heavy utilization of inward remittances on pollution‐driving households’ appliances need to be discouraged in India for mitigating both climate change and global warming in the long‐run.
Ricardian equivalence, Feldstein–Horioka puzzle and twin deficit hypothesis in Indian context: An empirical study
Authors: Badaik Suraj , Panda Prasant Kumar
Published: September 2020

The paper investigates the twin deficit hypothesis in case of India. Furthermore, this paper examines the Ricardian equivalence hypothesis and the Feldstein‐Horioka puzzle to complement the twin deficit hypothesis. To substantiate objectives, annual time series data for the period 1970 to 2012 have been used. Time series econometrics techniques such as vector autoregressive model and auto regressive distributive lag model have been employed wherever necessary. The empirical findings suggest the rejection of twin deficit hypothesis and Feldstein‐Horioka puzzle. However, it validates the Ricardian equivalence hypothesis i.e the fiscal deficit does not affect the current account deficit. Fiscal deficit retaining strategy may not be all in controlling current account deficit, than taking wholesome strategy that includes export promotion.
Indian premier league (IPL) match victory and sponsors' stock returns
Authors: Sen Samprita , Kayal Parthajit
Published: September 2020

This paper attempts to study the impact of Indian Premier League (IPL) match victories on the stock returns of the playing teams' major sponsors. We hand‐collect the events and sponsorship data for the years 2014–2017 and exploit the event study method for our analysis. We first compute the abnormal returns and then cross validate using the market model. Further, we estimate the cumulative abnormal returns to separately examine the impact of popularity matches. Our results suggest that the overall performance of a team throughout a whole season as well as unlikely wins or close‐finishes tends to have a favorable impact on the sponsors' stock returns.
Effect of marketing strategies on the market performance and a comparative study of online travel agencies in India
Authors: Agarwal Shweta , Kumar Shailendra , Adichwal Nitesh Kumar
Published: September 2020

The travel industry business in India started with its independence in 1945. India, a country with a lot of diversity, cultural heritage, and scores of languages presents unique challenges and opportunities for online travel agencies (OTAs). The internet changed the face of the travel industry. The travel boom, evolution of the internet, growing acceptance of e‐commerce, and the emergence of low‐cost carriers have been key factors that have contributed to the emergence of this sector.

The present study attempts to bridge the research interests across marketing and finance disciplines. It tries to explore the relationship between the marketing and advertising efforts of the companies with the equity value of the Indian travel agencies. It also aims to compare the popularity and acceptance of online services provided by the major players in the travel and tourism industry in India based on the questionnaire survey conducted from 200 respondents.
Spurensuche in diffusem Licht
Authors: Scheffold Frank
Published: September 2020

Diffuses, gestreutes Licht entsteht durch die zufällige Überlagerung der gestreuten Wellen in einem ungeordneten Material. Auf den ersten Blick scheint es wenig nützliche Information zu liefern. Nimmt man aber kohärente Lichtquellen, also Laser, so ändert sich das Bild. In den letzten dreißig Jahren wurden viele neue Kohärenzphänomene entdeckt, Messprinzipien und Algorithmen zur Analyse und Rekonstruktion entwickelt. So lassen sich Einblicke in opake weiche Materie gewinnen, die früher undenkbar gewesen wären. Da die Lichtvielfachstreuung in vielen Bereichen der Physik auftritt, lassen sich die Konzepte verallgemeinern und auch interdisziplinär einsetzen: von der Bildgebung über die Materialentwicklung bis zur Erforschung des Weltraums. Durch neue Techniken, programmierbare schnelle räumliche und zeitliche Lichtmodulatoren sowie durch die künstliche Intelligenz, sind noch bedeutende Fortschritte zu erwarten.
Stürmische Zeiten für die Klimaforschung
Authors: Hohenegger Cathy , Klocke Daniel
Published: September 2020

Mit dem Fortschritt der Computerleistung rückt der Traum näher, globale numerische Klimasimulationen über 30 Jahre mit einem Modellgitterabstand von 5 km durchzuführen. Solche sturmauflösenden Simulationen erlauben eine bessere Darstellung der Erdoberfläche als konventionelle globale Klimamodelle, wie im IPCC‐Bericht benutzt, die mit einem typischen Gitterabstand von 150 km arbeiten. Sie ermöglichen eine explizite Darstellung der Konvektion, die sich auf feinen Skalen abspielt und durch das Gitterraster konventioneller Klimamodelle fällt. Studien für kleinere Gebiete oder kürzere Zeitperioden haben gezeigt, dass sturmauflösende Klimamodelle den Tagesgang von konvektivem Niederschlag und die Häufigkeitsverteilung von stündlichen Niederschlagswerten besser widerspiegeln als konventionelle Klimamodelle. Es gibt auch Anzeichen, dass die Wechselwirkungen im Klimasystem, etwa zwischen Land und Atmosphäre, in den neuen Modellen anders funktionieren. Zudem deutet sich an, dass feinskalige Aspekte die großräumige Zirkulation der Atmosphäre verändern können. Damit könnten sturmauflösende Klimasimulationen für große Gebiete und lange Zeitperioden Überraschungen bringen.
Das Leuchten des Urknalls
Authors: Schwinn Johannes , Bartelmann Matthias
Published: September 2020

Wird der kosmische Mikrowellenhintergrund CMB (Cosmic Microwave Background) von vielen Vordergründen befreit, offenbart er Temperaturschwankungen von einigen zehn Mikrokelvin, die den Zustand des Universums 400 000 Jahre nach dem Urknall widerspiegeln. Die statistische Analyse dieser Schwankungen zeigt charakteristische Strukturen, aus denen sechs kosmologische Parameter direkt bestimmt werden können. Durch die Kombination des CMB mit anderen kosmologischen Beobachtungen können weitere Parameter indirekt abgeleitet werden. Dadurch wurde das kosmologische Standardmodell beeindruckend bestätigt, aber es bleiben auch bis heute ungeklärte Widersprüche bestehen.
Combined Targeted Proteomics and Oxylipin Metabolomics for Monitoring of the COX‐2 Pathway
Authors: Hartung Nicole M. , Ostermann Annika I. , Immenschuh Stephan , Schebb Nils Helge
Published: September 2020

The important role of inducible cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) in several diseases necessitates analytical tools enabling thorough understanding of its modulation. Analysis of a comprehensive oxylipin pattern provides detailed information about changes in enzyme activities. In order to simultaneously monitor gene expression levels, a targeted proteomics method for human COX‐2 is developed. With limits of detection and quantification down to 0.25 and 0.5 fmol (on column) the method enables sensitive quantitative analysis via LC‐MS/MS within a linear range up to 2.5 pmol. Three housekeeping proteins are included in the method for data normalization. A tiered approach for method development comprised of in silico and experimental steps is described for choosing unique peptides and selective and sensitive SRM transitions while avoiding isobaric interferences. This method combined with a well‐established targeted oxylipin metabolomics method allows to investigate the role of COX‐2 in the human colon carcinoma cell lines HCT‐116, HT‐29, and HCA‐7. Moreover, the developed methodology is used to demonstrate the time‐dependent prostanoid formation and COX‐2 enzyme synthesis in lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated human primary macrophages. The described approach is a helpful tool which will be further used as standard operation procedure, ultimately aiming at comprehensive targeted proteomics/oxylipin metabolomics strategies to examine the entire arachidonic acid cascade.
Molecular Remodeling in Populus PdKOR RNAi Roots Profiled Using LC‐MS/MS Proteomics
Authors: Abraham Paul E. , Matthiadis Anna , Hettich Robert L. , Kalluri Udaya C.
Published: September 2020

Plant endo‐β‐1,4‐glucanases belonging to the Glycoside Hydrolase Family 9 have functional roles in cell wall biosynthesis and remodeling via endohydrolysis of (1→4)‐β‐d‐glucosidic linkages. Modification of cell wall chemistry via RNA interference (RNAi)‐mediated downregulation of Populus deltoides KORRIGAN (PdKOR), an endo‐β‐1,4‐glucanase familygene was shown to have functional consequences on the composition of secondary metabolome and the ability of modified roots to interact with beneficial microbes. The molecular remodeling that underlies the observed differences at metabolic, physiological, and morphological levels in roots is not well understood. Here a liquid chromatography (LC)‐tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS)‐based proteome profiling approach is used to survey the molecular remodeling in root tissues of PdKOR and control plants. A total of 14316 peptides are identified and these mapped to 7139 P. deltoides proteins. Based on 90% sequence identity, the measured protein accessions represent 1187 functional protein groups. Analysis of Gene Ontology (GO) categories and specific individual proteins show differential expression of proteins relevant to plant‐microbe interactions, cell wall chemistry, and metabolism. The new proteome dataset serves as a useful resource for deriving new hypotheses and empirical testing pertaining to functional roles of proteins and pathways in differential priming of plant roots to interactions with microbes.
Piezoelectric Properties of Zinc Oxide Thin Films Grown by Plasma‐Enhanced Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Abu Ali Taher , Pilz Julian , Schäffner Philipp , Kratzer Markus , Teichert Christian , Stadlober Barbara , Coclite Anna Maria
Published: September 2020

Zinc oxide (ZnO) thin films are deposited by plasma‐enhanced atomic layer deposition (PE‐ALD). This deposition method allows depositing stoichiometric and highly resistive ZnO films at room temperature. Despite such important requirements for piezoelectricity being met, not much is known in literature about the piezoelectric properties of ZnO thin films (<70 nm) deposited by PE‐ALD. The films are grown at different substrate temperatures to investigate the effect on crystalline and piezoelectric properties. Films deposited on flexible poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) generated a higher piezoelectric current (>1.8 nA) and charge (>80 pC) compared with films deposited on glass (>0.3 nA and >30 pC) due to bending effects of the substrate when mechanically excited. Furthermore, increasing the substrate temperature, during deposition, enhances the growth along the (002) crystallographic orientation, which further strengthens the generated piezoelectric current signal for mechanical excitations along the ZnO film's c‐axis.
Theoretical insights into sensing performances of rhodamine‐contained two‐photon fluorescent probes for mercury ion
Authors: Leng Jiancai , Xin Juntao , Zhou Hong , Li Kan , Hu Wei , Zhang Yujin
Published: September 2020

Acting as a caustic element with high cellular toxicity, mercury may cause serious damage to the neurological and endocrine systems of the living body. Hence, the rapid detection of mercury ions is of significant importance. In this work, photoabsorption and photoemission properties of a series of newly synthesized mercury ion chemosensors based on rhodamine is investigated using the time‐dependent density functional theory. It shows that the fluorescent peaks of the probes are greatly redshifted from about 450 nm to about 530 nm with 5 to 12 times the fluorescence enhancement after reacting with mercury ions. Special attention has been paid to understanding the response mechanism of the probes, and the recognition of mercury ions controlled by the fluorescence resonance energy transfer process is verified theoretically. More importantly, the quadratic response theory has been used to calculate two‐photon absorption properties of these novel chemosensors. With the presence of mercury ion, a two‐photon absorption cross section for the studied probes increases from 35, 19, and 20 GM (1GM=10‐50cm4s/photon) to 155, 147, and 63 GM, respectively, indicating the feasibility of the probes to be used in two‐photon fluorescent microscopy imaging. The investigations demonstrate the donor effect on sensing performance of the sensors, which helps people to understand the structure‐property relationships and further design more effective two‐photon fluorescent probes for mercury ions.
Parallel Ghost Imaging
Authors: Qiu Xiaodong , Zhang Dongkai , Ma Tianlong , Lin Fei , Guo Haoxu , Zhang Wuhong , Chen Lixiang
Published: September 2020

Quantum‐correlation‐based ghost imaging, also termed quantum ghost imaging, has found applications as diverse as the fundamental tests of quantum mechanics and low‐light‐level imaging. In any previous schemes, however, only biphoton spatial entanglement is utilized, whereas other degrees of freedom of the photons have not yet been explored. Here we break this barrier to present a multichannel parallel ghost imaging system, by exploiting hyperentanglement where photon pairs are simultaneously entangled in polarization, color, and spatial mode. In the experiment, polarization and color entanglements provide 2× 2 independent channels via simultaneous polarization and color multiplexing, while an optical isolator with a delay line is constructed to ensure that spatial entanglement conveys the ghost image in parallel. The method can offer a pathway for high‐capacity quantum image processing and transmission in future quantum network.
Drug‐induced interstitial lung disease associated with dasatinib coinciding with active tuberculosis
Authors: Tani Nozomi , Kunimatsu Yusuke , Sato Izumi , Ogura Yuri , Hirose Kazuki , Takeda Takayuki
Published: September 2020

A 69‐year‐old woman was diagnosed with a breakpoint cluster region‐Abelson‐positive chronic myeloid leukaemia and treated with dasatinib for 14 months. She presented with one month of high‐grade fever and persistent dry cough. Chest computed tomography revealed non‐segmental subpleural consolidation, ground‐glass opacities, and interlobular septal thickening. The bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and transbronchial lung biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of drug‐induced interstitial lung disease (ILD) associated with dasatinib. Then, systemic corticosteroid treatment was initiated, which was effective and the interstitial shadow disappeared after two weeks. The acid‐fast bacilli culture test of BAL fluid after three weeks was positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and combination therapy with four antituberculosis drugs was added. It is known that drug‐induced ILD and susceptibility to infection associated with dasatinib occur in a dose‐dependent manner. This is the first case of dasatinib‐induced ILD which coincided with active tuberculosis.
Fault estimation and tolerant control for discrete‐time nonlinear stochastic multiple‐delayed systems with intermittent sensor and actuator faults
Authors: Sun Shaoxin , Dai Jing , Cai Yuliang , Zhang Huaguang
Published: September 2020

This article is concerned with the design of the observer and controller to perform fault estimation (FE) and fault tolerant control for the discrete‐time nonlinear stochastic systems with multiple time‐varying state delays and intermittent sensor and actuator faults. In comparison with the present research, the method addressed in this article is more flexible and feasible. A novel adaptive descriptor observer is developed to obtain the error dynamics and then realize n‐step FE. Then, an active observer‐based controller is constructed to stabilize the closed‐loop system. Moreover, an augmented closed‐loop system is acquired and a series of delay‐dependent sufficient conditions are collected by the delay‐dependent Lyapunov function utilizing linear matrix inequalities. The method is less conservative compared with the ones of the existence. At last, a simulation example is presented to demonstrate the advantages and effectiveness of the approach proposed in the article.
Quantized output regulation of minimum‐phase linear uncertain systems
Authors: Lu Maobin , Liu Lu
Published: September 2020

This article investigates the robust output regulation problem of a class of minimum‐phase linear uncertain systems subject to limited measurement information. A novel dynamic quantized output feedback control law together with a hybrid quantized feedback control policy is developed. By means of Lyapunov analysis, it is shown that the tracking error tends to zero asymptotically in spite of system uncertainties, disturbances, and limited measurement information. In addition, a special case of the main result leads to the solution of the robust stabilization problem of minimum‐phase linear systems subject to system uncertainties, disturbances, and the quantized output.
Robust switching control design for uncertain discrete‐time switched affine systems
Authors: Albea Sanchez Carolina , Ventosa‐Cutillas Antonio , Seuret Alexandre , Gordillo Francisco
Published: September 2020

This article focuses on the design of a robust switching control law for uncertain switched affine systems in the discrete‐time domain. More precisely, a novel control law is introduced whose parameters result from an optimization problem, aiming at reducing the volume of the attractive and invariant set, where the solutions to the closed‐loop system converge to. The design is based on a quadratic Lyapunov function and guarantees global practical stabilization, that is, global stabilization in a neighborhood of a desired operating point and robustness with respect to model uncertainties. Our method and the associated relaxed control law are then compared with existing conditions from the literature and are validated through numerical examples.
River channel response to dam removals on the lower Penobscot River, Maine, United States
Authors: Collins Mathias J. , Kelley Alice R. , Lombard Pamela J.
Published: September 2020

Most geomorphology studies of dam removals have focused on sites with appreciable quantities of stored sediments. There is great interest in channel responses to sediment releases because of potential effects on aquatic and riparian habitats and human uses of these areas. Yet, behind many dams in the Northeast U.S. and other regions of the world only minor accumulations of sediment are present because of small impoundments, run‐of‐river dam design and management (inflow ≈ outflow), low watershed sediment yield, and/or channel beds dominated by coarse sediment and/or bedrock. The two lowermost dams on the Penobscot River in Maine, United States, removed in 2012–2013, exemplified those conditions. Great Works and Veazie dams were about 6 and 10 m high, respectively. Pre‐project geophysical surveys showed coarse substrates dominated the reservoir beds and little sediment was stored in either impoundment—functions of reach geology, late Quaternary history, and upstream dams. Repeat cross‐section surveys in each impoundment, as well as the upstream and downstream reaches, were completed from 2009 to 2015 to evaluate channel morphology responses to the removals. Bed‐sediment grain size and turbidity were also measured to characterize changes in bed texture and suspended sediment. Pre‐ and post‐removal survey comparisons confirmed the expectation that bed elevations, channel shapes, and channel positions would not change substantially. Changes were often within, or close to, our estimated random measurement error. Our study shows that large‐scale physical changes are likely to be minimal when impoundments storing relatively little sediment are removed from erosion‐resistant streambeds. Many dams eligible for removal have these characteristics, making these observations an important case study that is largely unrepresented in the dam removal literature.
Opportunities and challenges for restoration of the Merced River through Yosemite Valley, Yosemite National Park, USA
Authors: Booth Derek B. , Ross‐Smith Katie , Haddon Elizabeth K. , Dunne Thomas , Larsen Eric W. , Roche James W. , Stock Greg M. , Mahacek Virginia
Published: September 2020

Successful river restoration requires understanding and integration of multiple disciplinary perspectives, including evaluations of past and ongoing watershed processes, local geomorphic response, and impacts unique to human activity. Nowhere is this more apparent than along the Merced River in Yosemite National Park, USA, where both an outstanding natural landscape and the consequences of over a century of human disturbances continue to interact. An intact upstream watershed highlights the importance here of local impacts on geomorphic response. Incision and the resulting decoupling of the channel from its adjacent late‐Holocene floodplain are consequences of reduced channel roughness, likely from de‐snagging the river, and instream gravel mining in the 19th and early 20th century. Riparian‐zone disturbance by visitor use has damaged riparian vegetation and soils, inducing channel widening. Revetments and channel‐spanning bridges, the latter being visible and oft‐cited impacts to fluvial processes, have distorted the natural evolution of meanders and induced local channel narrowing. The historical rate of sediment export from Yosemite Valley has greatly exceeded replenishment from upstream and lateral sources, creating a deficit that now inhibits recovery via passive restoration of more natural channel form and function. Climate change may amplify now‐diminished fluvial processes but also exacerbate the rate of sediment export. These conditions, reflecting a complex intersection of geologic history, modern geomorphic processes, and human interactions, demonstrate how a limited influx of sediment coupled with intensive human use can have long‐term consequences for riverine conditions, restoration opportunities, and social engagement with the riverine landscape.
Carryover effects of silicon‐rich amendments in rice paddies
Authors: Limmer Matt A. , Seyfferth Angelia L.
Published: September 2020

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) readily accumulates the nutrient silicon (Si) and the toxin arsenic (As), elements that can interact antagonistically both in the plant and in the soil. Thus, many studies have been performed where Si‐rich materials are incorporated into soils to increase plant‐available Si and thereby decrease plant As. However, studies have not examined the dissolution kinetics of Si from Si‐rich materials over multiple seasons and the resulting effects on rice systems. Here, we analyzed the porewater chemistry, CH4 emissions, and rice elemental concentrations from rice paddies in Year 2 that had been amended with Si‐rich materials (silicate fertilizer, rice husk, and charred rice husk) in Year 1. After two crop cycles, plant‐available Si and plant Si concentrations remained elevated in Si‐amended paddies. Silicon‐rich amendments also decreased plant As concentrations, although this effect was only observed in the vegetative tissues. Husk treatment resulted in the lowest porewater redox, highest CH4 emissions, and highest porewater inorganic As. Porewater concentrations and dynamics of inorganic As, dimethylarsinic acid (DMA), and trimethylarsine oxide (TMAO) differed for each amendment, but Si‐rich amendments exhibited elevated inorganic and organic As early in the growing season. These Si‐rich amendments can continue to provide Si and impact rice systems two growing seasons after application.
Advanced Filter Membrane Separator for Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Qin Yao , Liu Ping , Zhang Qi , Wang Qi , Sun Dan , Tang Yougen , Ren Yu , Wang Haiyan
Published: September 2020

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries with low cost and inherent safety are considered to be the next‐generation energy storage device. However, they suffer from poor cycling stability and low coulombic efficiency caused by the serious zinc dendrites during the cycling. In this work, a porous water‐based filter membrane is first proposed as separator due to its good toughness and uniform pore distribution. The results demonstrate that the symmetrical cell using a filter membrane can cycle over 2600 h with a low voltage hysteresis of 47 mV. Moreover, an aqueous Zn//NaV3O8·1.5H2O cell based on the filter membrane is constructed, which demonstrates a high capacity retention of 83.8% after 5000 cycles at 5 A g−1. The mechanism research results reveal that the excellent dendrites inhibiting the ability of the filter membrane should be attributed to its uniform pore distribution rather than its composition. This work proposes a filter membrane separator and reveals the great influence of separator on the zinc stripping/plating process, which will shed light on the development of high‐performance aqueous zinc‐ion batteries.