bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the groundwater suitability for irrigation near Al Kufa City and preparing the final water quality maps using spatial distribution tools
Authors: Al Maliki Ali A. , Abbass Zainab D. , Hussain Hussain M. , Al-Ansari Nadhir
Published: June 2020

In many parts of the world, groundwater quality is decreasing due to urbanization industrialization and use of agricultures in rural areas. This subject has formed an urgent need to determine the suitability of groundwater for various purposes. The aim of this study is to determine a groundwater index for groundwater use for irrigation in agriculture. The study is carried out in an agricultural area; near Al Kufa city, North of Al Najaf province, Iraq. Many chemical variables are used in this model, including (total dissolved solids TDS, electrical conductivity EC, sodium Na, potassium K and iron Fe), in addition to some of the heavy metals (cadmium Cd, lead Pb, chromium Cr, and nickel Ni), that also added to the index. The weight’s parameters are determined using analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and classified into five groups based on the human health significance of these parameters and negative effect on agriculture. The result of this study indicates that the water quality index (WQI) records values between (0 and 4.33), and in which the value of (2.16) represents the limit between unpolluted and polluted groundwater. This study confirms that all groundwater samples over the study area are suitable for agriculture. The final WQI values are exported to ArcMap environment to prepare the final WQI maps of study area.
Correction to: The design of a unit sweeping gas membrane distillation: experimental study on a membrane and operating parameters
Authors: Boukhriss Mokhless , Hamida Mohamed Bechir Ben , Maatoug Med Ali , Zarzoum Kamel , Marzouki Riadh , Bacha Habib Ben
Published: July 2020

Unfortunately, the second author name, funding note and acknowledgment are published incorrectly in the print published article. The correct second author name is Mohamed Bechir Ben Hamida, and the correct funding and acknowledgments are given below.
Auswirkungen von Analogiemodellen auf den Aufbau konzeptuellen Wissens im Sachunterricht der Grundschule – Beispiel Stromkreis
Authors: Haider Michael , Fölling-Albers Maria
Published: July 2020

Naturwissenschaftlicher Unterricht bedarf vielfach konkreter Anschauungsmittel, weil Lerninhalte abstrakt und/oder aufgrund spezifischer Merkmale nicht direkt erfahrbar sind. Durch Analogiemodelle können solche Konkretisierungen erreicht werden. In der vorliegenden Studie wurde mit einem quasi-experimentellen Prä‑, Post- und Follow-up-Design untersucht, inwiefern bei Schülerinnen und Schülern der dritten Jahrgangsstufe (N = 254) der Einsatz unterschiedlicher Analogiemodelle (Wassermodelle vs. Riemenmodelle) den Aufbau konzeptuellen Wissens zum Thema Strom (Stromfluss, Stromverbrauch (Der Begriff Stromverbrauch wird zwar im Alltag verwendet, ist aber sachlich inkorrekt. Wegen einer besseren Lesbarkeit wird auf Anführungszeichen verzichtet.)) unterstützt. Die Befunde zeigen, dass der Inhalt Stromfluss auch ohne den Einsatz von Analogiemodellen erfolgreich erarbeitet werden kann. Beim komplexeren Schwerpunkt Stromverbrauch erwies sich der Einsatz des Riemenmodells als günstiger. Differenzielle Effekte für Kinder mit ungünstigen Lernvoraussetzungen konnten nicht gefunden werden.
Opinions, Attitudes, and Perceptions in Relation to Erectile Dysfunction and Premature Ejaculation in the Undiagnosed Spanish Male Population. Results of the PANDORA Project
Authors: Prieto-Castro R. , Puigvert-Martínez A.M. , Artigas-Feliu R. , Illán-Mateo P. , Cruz-Culebra N. , Artés-Ferragud M. , Reverte Alcaraz
Published: July 2020

Background

Approximately 43% of Spanish men report experiencing premature ejaculation (PE) at some point in their lives and 12.1% suffer from erectile dysfunction (ED), of whom only 16.5% have seen a doctor. Despite this, ED and PE remain undiagnosed among a supposedly healthy segment of the population.

Aim

To assess the general knowledge of a representative population of healthy Spanish males of the symptoms, treatment, and expectations related to ED and PE.

Methods

This was a descriptive study based on an online questionnaire in which 2,515 males aged 25–75 years with no history of ED and/or PE presented their perception of aspects related to symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and expectations in ED and PE.

Main Outcome Measures

The study provided an evaluation of the knowledge, attitude, and underdiagnosis of ED and/or PE in healthy males and the approach taken by urology specialists and other disciplines.

Results

The survey was completed by 2,515 healthy males, including over 80% of those who had completed secondary or higher education. 60% of the sample had never seen a urologist and 59% and 62% of the participating men responded correctly to the statements about PE and ED, respectively. Their lack of knowledge of the therapeutic alternatives was clear (74% and 76% of the panel were unaware of the existence of effective treatments for ED and PE, respectively). Despite the initiative shown by some participants in seeking information about each condition (10.3% for ED; 16.7% for PE), only 4.7% of them had been questioned about ED by a medical practitioner (1.9% for PE). The underdiagnosis rate stood at 3.5% for ED (5.6% participants >65 years) and at about 10% for PE.

Clinical Implications

These results will represent a point of departure for establishing some recommendations to improve the detection and treatment of these disorders.

Strengths & Limitations

This is the first study of its kind in Spain to analyze the underdiagnosis of ED and/or PE inferred from data reported by a population of healthy males. Screening for ED was performed with a validated questionnaire. However, the rest of the research was conducted using adaptations of validated questionnaires or a self-designed questionnaire based on and in consultation with a group of experienced andrologists.

Conclusion

People need to have greater knowledge of both the conditions and the related false myths to make sure that they are familiar with the existence of drug treatments and socio-sanitary interventions. Primary care physicians and urologists should also be more proactive in routine visits in order to achieve better management of ED and PE.
OFDM waveform for distributed radar sensing in automotive scenarios
Authors: Schieler Steffen , Schneider Christian , Andrich Carsten , Döbereiner Michael , Luo Jian , Schwind Andreas , Thomä Reiner S. , Del Galdo Giovanni
Published: July 2020

In this paper, an orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) waveform radar sensing approach is demonstrated based on field measurements at C-band. We demonstrate a concept that is based on the exploitation of typical wireless communication transmissions to perform passive, distributed radar sensing. Our concept is based on an OFDM radar that operates in the modulation symbol domain and can be well integrated into existing OFDM receivers. The measurement setup and the signal processing steps for the OFDM radar are described. The results show that the passive, distributed radar sensing approach can be used to detect and localize moving cars and even pedestrians in automotive intersection scenarios.
Perspectives on Marine Electromagnetic Methods
Authors: Constable Steven
Published: July 2020

Marine electromagnetic methods form important tools for the study of offshore geology, particularly at plate boundaries such as mid‐ocean ridges, subduction zones, and the boundary between the lithosphere and asthenosphere, because electrical conductivity is strongly dependent on water content, partial melt, and temperature. Very early development of electromagnetic methods in the oceans was driven by military interest in marine communication and detection, and geological applications soon followed. Around the turn of the century, what was originally a niche discipline expanded dramatically when the hydrocarbon industry embraced magnetotelluric and controlled‐source electromagnetic methods as aids to deep‐water exploration, driving a significant improvement in instrumentation and interpretation software. This greatly enhanced the imaging capabilities of these methods, and led to an expansion of their academic use both in plate boundary studies and newer applications such as gas hydrate studies, offshore groundwater mapping, and others.
Statistical Analysis of the Possible Association Between Geomagnetic Storms and Cetacean Mass Strandings
Authors: Pulkkinen A. , Moore K. , Zellar R. , Uritskaya O. , Karaköylü E. M. , Uritsky V. , Reeb D.
Published: July 2020

Cetacean mass strandings are one of the long‐standing mysteries in marine biology and many explanations have been proposed for the often‐fatal animal behavior. Geomagnetic activity that is driven by solar phenomena such as coronal mass ejections is one of the proposed explanations. In this study, we investigate if there is statistical evidence for a possible connection between mass strandings and geomagnetic storms. Fresh (live or recently deceased animals) mass stranding records from Cape Cod, USA, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand, together with global geomagnetic indices and local geomagnetic observations, are utilized in this investigation. While seasonal statistical association is found between cetacean mass strandings and geomagnetic field variations, the connection is likely a byproduct of the seasonality found in both types of data. No statistical associations are found in 30‐day or shorter time scales that are believed to be relevant for possible animal response to changes in geomagnetic conditions. If geomagnetic activity plays any role in fresh mass strandings analyzed in this investigation, the connection has to be very subtle and likely coupled with a complex combination of multiple environmental factors.
Neurogenesis of medium spiny neurons in the nucleus accumbens continues into adulthood and is enhanced by pathological pain
Authors: García-González Diego , Dumitru Ionut , Zuccotti Annalisa , Yen Ting-Yun , Herranz-Pérez Vicente , Tan Linette Liqi , Neitz Angela , García-Verdugo José Manuel , Kuner Rohini , Alfonso Julieta , Monyer Hannah
Published: July 2020

In mammals, most adult neural stem cells (NSCs) are located in the ventricular–subventricular zone (V-SVZ) along the wall of the lateral ventricles and they are the source of olfactory bulb interneurons. Adult NSCs exhibit an apico-basal polarity; they harbor a short apical process and a long basal process, reminiscent of radial glia morphology. In the adult mouse brain, we detected extremely long radial glia-like fibers that originate from the anterior–ventral V-SVZ and that are directed to the ventral striatum. Interestingly, a fraction of adult V-SVZ-derived neuroblasts dispersed in close association with the radial glia-like fibers in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Using several in vivo mouse models, we show that newborn neurons integrate into preexisting circuits in the NAc where they mature as medium spiny neurons (MSNs), i.e., a type of projection neurons formerly believed to be generated only during embryonic development. Moreover, we found that the number of newborn neurons in the NAc is dynamically regulated by persistent pain, suggesting that adult neurogenesis of MSNs is an experience-modulated process.
Citalopram-induced pathways regulation and tentative treatment-outcome-predicting biomarkers in lymphoblastoid cell lines from depression patients
Authors: Barakat Abdul Karim , Scholl Catharina , Steffens Michael , Brandenburg Kerstin , Ising Marcus , Lucae Susanne , Holsboer Florian , Laje Gonzalo , Kalayda Ganna V. , Jaehde Ulrich , Stingl Julia Carolin
Published: July 2020

Antidepressant therapy is still associated with delays in symptomatic improvement and low response rates. Incomplete understanding of molecular mechanisms underlying antidepressant effects hampered the identification of objective biomarkers for antidepressant response. In this work, we studied transcriptome-wide expression followed by pathway analysis in lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) derived from 17 patients documented for response to SSRI antidepressants from the Munich Antidepressant Response Signatures (MARS) study upon short-term incubation (24 and 48 h) with citalopram. Candidate transcripts were further validated with qPCR in MARS LCLs from responders (n = 33) vs. non-responders (n = 36) and afterward in an independent cohort of treatment-resistant patients (n = 20) vs. first-line responders (n = 24) from the STAR*D study. In MARS cohort we observed significant associations of GAD1 (glutamate decarboxylase 1; p = 0.045), TBC1D9 (TBC1 Domain Family Member 9; p = 0.014–0.021) and NFIB (nuclear factor I B; p = 0.015–0.025) expression with response status, remission status and improvement in depression scale, respectively. Pathway analysis of citalopram-altered gene expression indicated response-status-dependent transcriptional reactions. Whereas in clinical responders neural function pathways were primarily up- or downregulated after incubation with citalopram, deregulated pathways in non-responders LCLs mainly involved cell adhesion and immune response. Results from the STAR*D study showed a marginal association of treatment-resistant depression with NFIB (p = 0.068) but not with GAD1 (p = 0.23) and TBC1D9 (p = 0.27). Our results propose the existence of distinct pathway regulation mechanisms in responders vs. non-responders and suggest GAD1, TBC1D9, and NFIB as tentative predictors for clinical response, full remission, and improvement in depression scale, respectively, with only a weak overlap in predictors of different therapy outcome phenotypes.
A genome-wide scan for pleiotropy between bone mineral density and nonbone phenotypes
Authors: Christou Maria A. , Ntritsos Georgios , Markozannes Georgios , Koskeridis Fotis , Nikas Spyros N. , Karasik David , Kiel Douglas P. , Evangelou Evangelos , Ntzani Evangelia E.
Published: July 2020

Osteoporosis is the most common metabolic bone disorder globally and is characterized by skeletal fragility and microarchitectural deterioration. Genetic pleiotropy occurs when a single genetic element is associated with more than one phenotype. We aimed to identify pleiotropic loci associated with bone mineral density (BMD) and nonbone phenotypes in genome-wide association studies. In the discovery stage, the NHGRI-EBI Catalog was searched for genome-wide significant associations (P value < 5 × 10−8), excluding bone-related phenotypes. SNiPA was used to identify proxies of the significantly associated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) (r2 = 1). We then assessed putative genetic associations of this set of SNPs with femoral neck (FN) and lumbar spine (LS) BMD data from the GEFOS Consortium. Pleiotropic variants were claimed at a false discovery rate < 1.4 × 10−3 for FN-BMD and < 1.5 × 10−3 for LS-BMD. Replication of these genetic markers was performed among more than 400 000 UK Biobank participants of European ancestry with available genetic and heel bone ultrasound data. In the discovery stage, 72 BMD-related pleiotropic SNPs were identified, and 12 SNPs located in 11 loci on 8 chromosomes were replicated in the UK Biobank. These SNPs were associated, in addition to BMD, with 14 different phenotypes. Most pleiotropic associations were exhibited by rs479844 (AP5B1, OVOL1 genes), which was associated with dermatological and allergic diseases, and rs4072037 (MUC1 gene), which was associated with magnesium levels and gastroenterological cancer. In conclusion, 12 BMD-related genome-wide significant SNPs showed pleiotropy with nonbone phenotypes. Pleiotropic associations can deepen the genetic understanding of bone-related diseases by identifying shared biological mechanisms with other diseases or traits.
A FAK/HDAC5 signaling axis controls osteocyte mechanotransduction
Authors: Sato Tadatoshi , Verma Shiv , Andrade Christian D. Castro , Omeara Maureen , Campbell Nia , Wang Jialiang S. , Cetinbas Murat , Lang Audrey , Ausk Brandon J. , Brooks Daniel J. , Sadreyev Ruslan I. , Kronenberg Henry M. , Lagares David , Uda Yuhei , Pajevic Paola Divieti , Bouxsein Mary L. , Gross Ted S. , Wein Marc N.
Published: July 2020

Osteocytes, cells ensconced within mineralized bone matrix, are the primary skeletal mechanosensors. Osteocytes sense mechanical cues by changes in fluid flow shear stress (FFSS) across their dendritic projections. Loading-induced reductions of osteocytic Sclerostin (encoded by Sost) expression stimulates new bone formation. However, the molecular steps linking mechanotransduction and Sost suppression remain unknown. Here, we report that class IIa histone deacetylases (HDAC4 and HDAC5) are required for loading-induced Sost suppression and bone formation. FFSS signaling drives class IIa HDAC nuclear translocation through a signaling pathway involving direct HDAC5 tyrosine 642 phosphorylation by focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a HDAC5 post-translational modification that controls its subcellular localization. Osteocyte cell adhesion supports FAK tyrosine phosphorylation, and FFSS triggers FAK dephosphorylation. Pharmacologic FAK catalytic inhibition reduces Sost mRNA expression in vitro and in vivo. These studies demonstrate a role for HDAC5 as a transducer of matrix-derived cues to regulate cell type-specific gene expression.
High-altitude populations need special considerations for COVID-19
Authors: Breevoort Arnar , Carosso Giovanni A. , Mostajo-Radji Mohammed A.
Published: July 2020

The atmospheric pressure that decreases with altitude affects lung physiology. However, these changes in physiology are not usually considered in ventilator design and testing. We argue that high altitude human populations require special attention to access the international supply of ventilators.
Reliability of R2R-printed, flexible electrodes for e-clothing applications
Authors: Sliz Rafal , Huttunen Olli-Heikki , Jansson Elina , Kemppainen Juhani , Schroderus Jyrki , Kurkinen Marika , Fabritius Tapio
Published: July 2020

Conformable electrodes are essential for the development of flexible electronics or functional clothing, regardless of their application. Their reliable ability to transfer electric signals or serve as sensing elements in various conditions is vital for the advancement of wearables that will enhance our everyday life. In this research, we concentrate our efforts on the understanding of the influence of elongation and washing on roll-to-roll printed conductive electrodes of various shapes and materials. A large sample set provides data on the breaking mechanisms and how these affect the electrical properties of the electrodes. In addition, the physicochemical analysis offers insights into the electrodes’ and materials’ behavior in extreme conditions during elongation and washing cycles. The achieved results indicate auspicious nanoparticle shapes and sizes as well as evidence regarding micro-scale breaking mechanisms responsible for electrodes degradation. Utilization of commercially available materials and roll-to-roll printing techniques allow the seamless application of achieved results and the creation of more reliable, flexible electronic devices.
Using generalized additive models to investigate the environmental effects on pipe failure in clean water networks
Authors: Barton Neal Andrew , Farewell Timothy Stephen , Hallett Stephen Henry
Published: July 2020

Predicting pipe failures using statistical modelling benefits from detailed knowledge of the conditions and circumstances which influence such failures. Incorporating this knowledge into model building improves failure predictions. In this study, we model weather, soil and hydrogeological variables in a generalized additive model for five common pipe materials separately, using partial dependence plots to understand the partial effects of each variable on pipe failure. We show how severe temperatures are associated with high pipe failure. Cold temperatures and air frost and their interaction with soils represent the key factors for pipe failures during the winter for metal pipes. Warm temperatures, high soil moisture deficit and soil movement results in higher pipe failures in asbestos cement pipes during the summer. Warm temperatures, ground movement and soil wash out, and water demand are key factors for polyvinyl chloride pipe failure during the summer. Frost is a key factor influencing polyethylene pipes during winter. An understanding of the physical principals concerning pipe failures can enable the development of more accurate models, guiding network management plans to help reduce asset leakage through appropriate interventions.
Heterotopic Porcine Cardiac Xenotransplantation in the Intra-Abdominal Position in a Non-Human Primate Model
Authors: Goerlich Corbin E. , DiChiacchio Laura , Zhang Tianshu , Singh Avneesh K. , Lewis Billeta , Tatarov Ivan , Hershfeld Alena , Sentz Faith , Ayares David , Corcoran Philip , Horvath Keith , Mohiuddin Muhammad M.
Published: July 2020

Heterotopic cardiac transplantation in the intra-abdominal position in a large animal model has been essential in the progression of the field of cardiac transplantation. Our group has over 10 years of experience in cardiac xenotransplantation with pig to baboon models, the longest xenograft of which survived over 900 days, with rejection only after reducing immunosuppression. This article aims to clarify our approach to this model in order to allow others to share success in long-term survival. Here, we demonstrate the approach to implantation of a cardiac graft into the intra-abdominal position in a baboon recipient for the study of transplantation and briefly highlight our model’s ability to provide insight into not only xenotransplantation but across disciplines. We include details that have provided us with consistent success in this model; performance of the anastomoses, de-airing of the graft, implantation of a long-term telemetry device for invasive graft monitoring, and ideal geometric positioning of the heart and telemetry device in the limited space of the recipient abdomen. We additionally detail surveillance techniques to assess long-term graft function.
Hybrid biocomposites from polypropylene, sustainable biocarbon and graphene nanoplatelets
Authors: Watt Ethan , Abdelwahab Mohamed A. , Snowdon Michael R. , Mohanty Amar K. , Khalil Hamdy , Misra Manjusri
Published: July 2020

Polypropylene (PP) is an attractive polymer for use in automotive parts due to its ease of processing, hydrophobic nature, chemical resistance and low density. The global shift towards eliminating non-renewable resource consumption has promoted research of sustainable biocarbon (BioC) filler in a PP matrix, but this material often leads to reduction in composite strength and requires additional fillers. Graphene nano-platelets (GnPs) have been the subject of considerable research as a nanofiller due to their strength, while maleic anhydride grafted polypropylene (MA-g-PP) is a commonly used compatibilizer for improvement of interfacial adhesion in composites. This study compared the thermo-mechanical properties of PP/BioC/MA-g-PP/GnP composites with varying wt.% of GnP. Morphological analysis revealed uniform dispersion of BioC, while significant agglomeration of GnPs limited their even dispersion throughout the PP matrix. In the optimal blend of 3 wt.% GnP and 17 wt.% BioC biocontent, tensile strength and modulus increased by ~19% and ~22% respectively, as compared to 20 wt.% BioC biocomposites. Thermal stability and performance enhancement occurred through incorporation of the fillers. Thus, hybridization of fillers in the compatibilized matrix presents a promising route to the enhancement of material properties, while reducing petroleum-based products through use of sustainable BioC filler in composite structures.
Mesenchymal subtype neuroblastomas are addicted to TGF-βR2/HMGCR-driven protein geranylgeranylation
Authors: Stokes Michael E. , Small Jonnell Candice , Vasciaveo Alessandro , Shimada Kenichi , Hirschhorn Tal , Califano Andrea , Stockwell Brent R.
Published: July 2020

The identification of targeted agents with high therapeutic index is a major challenge for cancer drug discovery. We found that screening chemical libraries across neuroblastoma (NBL) tumor subtypes for selectively-lethal compounds revealed metabolic dependencies that defined each subtype. Bioactive compounds were screened across cell models of mesenchymal (MESN) and MYCN-amplified (MYCNA) NBL subtypes, which revealed the mevalonate and folate biosynthetic pathways as MESN-selective dependencies. Treatment with lovastatin, a mevalonate biosynthesis inhibitor, selectively inhibited protein prenylation and induced apoptosis in MESN cells, while having little effect in MYCNA lines. Statin sensitivity was driven by HMGCR expression, the rate-limiting enzyme for cholesterol synthesis, which correlated with statin sensitivity across NBL cell lines, thus providing a drug sensitivity biomarker. Comparing expression profiles from sensitive and resistant cell lines revealed a TGFBR2 signaling axis that regulates HMGCR, defining an actionable addiction in that leads to MESN-subtype-dependent apoptotic cell death.
Validation of the four-miRNA biomarker panel MiCaP for prediction of long-term prostate cancer outcome
Authors: Strand Siri H. , Schmidt Linnéa , Weiss Simone , Borre Michael , Kristensen Helle , Rasmussen Anne Karin Ildor , Daugaard Tina Fuglsang , Kristensen Gitte , Stroomberg Hein Vincent , Røder Martin Andreas , Brasso Klaus , Mouritzen Peter , Sørensen Karina Dalsgaard
Published: July 2020

Improved prostate cancer prognostic biomarkers are urgently needed. We previously identified the four-miRNA prognostic biomarker panel MiCaP ((miR-23a-3p × miR-10b-5p)/(miR-133a-3p × miR-374b-5p)) for prediction of biochemical recurrence (BCR) after radical prostatectomy (RP). Here, we identified an optimal numerical cut-off for MiCaP dichotomisation using a training cohort of 475 RP patients and tested this in an independent cohort of 281 RP patients (PCA281). Kaplan–Meier, uni- and multivariate Cox regression analyses were conducted for multiple endpoints: BCR, metastatic-(mPC) and castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), prostate cancer-specific (PCSS) and overall survival (OS). Functional effects of the four MiCaP miRNAs were assessed by overexpression and inhibition experiments in prostate cancer cell lines. We found the numerical value 5.709 optimal for MiCaP dichotomisation. This was independently validated in PCA281, where a high MiCaP score significantly [and independent of the Cancer of the Prostate Risk Assessment Postsurgical (CAPRA-S) score] predicted BCR, progression to mPC and CRPC, and PCSS, but not OS. Harrell’s C-index increased upon addition of MiCaP to CAPRA-S for all endpoints. Inhibition of miR-23a-3p and miR-10b-5p, and overexpression of miR-133a-3p and miR-374b-5p significantly reduced cell survival. Our results may promote future implementation of a MiCaP-based test for improved prostate cancer risk stratification.
The mitogenome portrait of Umbria in Central Italy as depicted by contemporary inhabitants and pre-Roman remains
Authors: Modi Alessandra , Lancioni Hovirag , Cardinali Irene , Capodiferro Marco R. , Rambaldi Migliore Nicola , Hussein Abir , Strobl Christina , Bodner Martin , Schnaller Lisa , Xavier Catarina , Rizzi Ermanno , Bonomi Ponzi Laura , Vai Stefania , Raveane Alessandro , Cavadas Bruno , Semino Ornella , Torroni Antonio , Olivieri Anna , Lari Martina , Pereira Luisa , Parson Walther , Caramelli David , Achilli Alessandro
Published: July 2020

Umbria is located in Central Italy and took the name from its ancient inhabitants, theUmbri, whose origins are still debated. Here, we investigated the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) variation of 545 present-day Umbrians (with 198 entire mitogenomes) and 28 pre-Roman individuals (obtaining 19 ancient mtDNAs) excavated from the necropolis ofPlestia. We found a rather homogeneous distribution of western Eurasian lineages across the region, with few notable exceptions. Contemporary inhabitants of the eastern part, delimited by the Tiber River and the Apennine Mountains, manifest a peculiar mitochondrial proximity to central-eastern Europeans, mainly due to haplogroups U4 and U5a, and an overrepresentation of J (30%) similar to the pre-Roman remains, also excavated in East Umbria. Local genetic continuities are further attested to by six terminal branches (H1e1, J1c3, J2b1, U2e2a, U8b1b1 and K1a4a) shared between ancient and modern mitogenomes. Eventually, we identified multiple inputs from various population sources that likely shaped the mitochondrial gene pool of ancientUmbriover time, since early Neolithic, including gene flows with central-eastern Europe. This diachronic mtDNA portrait of Umbria fits well with the genome-wide population structure identified on the entire peninsula and with historical sources that list theUmbriamong the most ancient Italic populations.
Skewed electronic band structure induced by electric polarization in ferroelectric BaTiO3
Authors: Oshime Norihiro , Kano Jun , Ikenaga Eiji , Yasui Shintaro , Hamasaki Yosuke , Yasuhara Sou , Hinokuma Satoshi , Ikeda Naoshi , Janolin Pierre-Eymeric , Kiat Jean-Michel , Itoh Mitsuru , Yokoya Takayoshi , Fujii Tatsuo , Yasui Akira , Osawa Hitoshi
Published: July 2020

Skewed band structures have been empirically described in ferroelectric materials to explain the functioning of recently developed ferroelectric tunneling junction (FTJs). Nonvolatile ferroelectric random access memory (FeRAM) and the artificial neural network device based on the FTJ system are rapidly developing. However, because the actual ferroelectric band structure has not been elucidated, precise designing of devices has to be advanced through appropriate heuristics. Here, we perform angle-resolved hard X-ray photoemission spectroscopy of ferroelectric BaTiO3 thin films for the direct observation of ferroelectric band skewing structure as the depth profiles of atomic orbitals. The depth-resolved electronic band structure consists of three depth regions: a potential slope along the electric polarization in the core, the surface and interface exhibiting slight changes. We also demonstrate that the direction of the energy shift is controlled by the polarization reversal. In the ferroelectric skewed band structure, we found that the difference in energy shifts of the atomic orbitals is correlated with the atomic configuration of the soft phonon mode reflecting the Born effective charges. These findings lead to a better understanding of the origin of electric polarization.
Role of water in cyclooxygenase catalysis and design of anti-inflammatory agents targeting two sites of the enzyme
Authors: Kaur Manpreet , Kaur Baljit , Kaur Jagroop , Kaur Anudeep , Bhatti Rajbir , Singh Palwinder
Published: July 2020

While designing the anti-inflammatory agents targeting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), we first identified a water loop around the heme playing critical role in the enzyme catalysis. The results of molecular dynamic studies supported by the strong hydrogen-bonding equilibria of the participating atoms, radical stabilization energies, the pKa of the H-donor/acceptor sites and the cyclooxygenase activity of pertinent muCOX-2 ravelled the working of the water–peptide channel for coordinating the flow of H·/electron between the heme and Y385. Based on the working of H·/electron transfer channel between the 12.5 Å distant radical generation and the radical disposal sites, a series of molecules was designed and synthesized. Among this category of compounds, an appreciably potent anti-inflammatory agent exhibiting IC50 0.06 μM against COX-2 and reversing the formalin induced analgesia and carageenan induced inflammation in mice by 90% was identified. Further it was revealed that, justifying its bidentate design, the compound targets water loop (heme bound site) and the arachidonic acid binding pockets of COX-2.
Late subadult ontogeny and adult aging of the human thorax reveals divergent growth trajectories between sexes
Authors: García-Martínez Daniel , Bastir Markus , Villa Chiara , García-Río Francisco , Torres-Sánchez Isabel , Recheis Wolfgang , Barash Alon , Khonsari Roman Hossein , O’Higgins Paul , Meyer Marc R. , Heuzé Yann
Published: July 2020

Sexual dimorphism is an important feature of adult thorax morphology, but when and how sex-related differences in the ribcage arise during ontogeny is poorly known. Previous research proposed that sex-related size differences in the nasal region arise during puberty. Therefore, we explore whether ribcage sexual dimorphism also arises at that time and whether this sexual dimorphism is maintained until old age. We measured 526 (semi)landmarks on 80 CT-based human ribcage reconstructions, on individuals ranging from 7 to 65 year-old. The 3D coordinates were submitted to the Procrustes superimposition and analyzed. Our results show that the trajectories of thorax size and shape between sexes diverge at around 12 years of age, and continue slightly diverging until old age. The differential ontogenetic trends cause adult male ribcages to become deeper, shorter, and wider than female. Our results are consistent with the evidence from the cranial respiratory system, with the development of sexual dimorphism probably related to changes in body composition during puberty combined with changes in the reproductive system.
Impact of immune-mediated diseases in inflammatory bowel disease and implications in therapeutic approach
Authors: García M. J. , Pascual M. , Del Pozo C. , Díaz-González A. , Castro B. , Rasines L. , Crespo J. , Rivero M.
Published: July 2020

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) belong to the group of immune-mediated diseases (IMIDs). The effect of associated IMIDs in the prognosis in IBD is nowadays unknown. To describe IMIDs associated to IBD patients and evaluate differences linked to the presence or absence of IMIDs. A unicentric retrospective descriptive study was designed. A cohort of 1,448 patients were categorized according to the presence of IMIDs. Clinical characteristics were obtained from IBD database. Univariate and multivariate analysis were performed. 385 patients were diagnosed with associated IMIDs while 1,063 had no associated IMIDs. A prevalence of 26.6% IMIDs associated to IBD was observed. Asthma, skin psoriasis and rheumatoid diseases were most commonly found. Factors associated to the presence of IMIDs were women (OR 1.48; 95 CI 1.17–1.87) and Crohn’s disease (OR 1.35; 95 CI 1.07–1.70). Patients with associated IMIDs required more immunomodulator (OR 1.61; 95 CI 1.27–2.43) and biological treatment (OR 1.81; 95 CI 1.47–2.43). More surgical risk was observed in multivariate analysis in those patients diagnosed with IMIDs prior to the onset of IBD (OR 3.71; 95% CI 2.1–6.56). We considered the presence of IMIDs a poor prognostic factor and suggest a closer monitoring of these patients.
Long-term retrospective observation study to evaluate effects of adiponectin on skeletal muscle in renal transplant recipients
Authors: Adachi Hiroki , Fujimoto Keiji , Fujii Ai , Yamasaki Keita , Okada Keiichiro , Matsuura Toshikazu , Okino Kazuaki , Furuichi Kengo , Yokoyama Hitoshi
Published: July 2020

Although it has been reported that chronic kidney disease exacerbates sarcopenia progression, the mechanisms of the process remain unclear. Fifty-one patients who underwent renal transplantation at our hospital since 1998 (31 males and 20 females; aged 29–52 years at the time of transplantation) were retrospectively examined for the relationships among the psoas muscle index (PMI), intramuscular adipose tissue content (IMAC), serum adiponectin fractions (high-/low-molecular-weight) and new-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT). Before transplantation, age at kidney transplantation negatively correlated with PMI and positively correlated with IMAC (rS = − 0.427, p < 0.01; rS = 0.464, p < 0.01, respectively). Both at 1 and 5 years after transplantation, PMI was higher than before transplantation (p < 0.01). IMAC transiently decreased to − 0.39 at 1 year after kidney transplantation but subsequently increased to − 0.36 at 5 years after kidney transplantation. Multivariate analyses revealed that the mean increase in high-molecular weight adiponectin concentrations was an exacerbating factor for the mean change in PMI (p = 0.003). Moreover, the mean increases in IMAC were exacerbating factors for NODAT. In conclusion, the increase in the PMI is associated with high–molecular weight adiponectin levels after renal transplantation.
Spin transport in a lateral spin valve with a suspended Cu channel
Authors: Matsuki Kenjiro , Ohshima Ryo , Leiva Livio , Ando Yuichiro , Shinjo Teruya , Tsuchiya Toshiyuki , Shiraishi Masashi
Published: July 2020

We study spin transport through a suspended Cu channel by an electrical non-local 4-terminal measurement for future spin mechanics applications. A magnetoresistance due to spin transport through the suspended Cu channel is observed, and its magnitude is comparable to that of a conventional fixed Cu lateral spin valve. The spin diffusion length in the suspended Cu channel is estimated to be 340 nm at room temperature from the spin signal dependence on the distance between the ferromagnetic injector and detector electrodes. This value is found to be slightly shorter than in a fixed Cu. The decrease in the spin diffusion length in the suspended Cu channel is attributed to an increase in spin scattering originating from naturally oxidized Cu at the bottom of the Cu channel.
Bidirectional acoustic negative refraction based on a pair of metasurfaces with both local and global PT-symmetries
Authors: Lan Jun , Zhang Xiaowei , Wang Liwei , Lai Yun , Liu Xiaozhou
Published: July 2020

Negative refraction plays an important role in acoustic wave manipulation and imaging. However, conventional systems based on acoustic metamaterials suffer from the limits induced by loss-related and resolution issues. In this work, a parity-time (PT)-symmetric system is introduced to realize loss-free bidirectional acoustic negative refraction. The system is composed of a pair of locally PT-symmetric multi-layer metasurfaces sandwiching a region of free space, which also forms a global PT symmetry. The property of bidirectional negative refraction, which is rare for general PT-symmetric structures, is related to the coexistence of amplification and absorption in the locally PT-symmetric metasurfaces at their PT-broken phases. Such metasurfaces can freely switch their states between coherent perfect absorber (CPA) and amplifier depending on the direction of incidence. Our results provide a physical mechanism for realizing bidirectional functions in acoustic PT-symmetric systems.
Simultaneous recovery of high-purity Cu and poly(vinyl chloride) from waste wire harness via swelling followed by ball milling
Authors: Kumar Harendra , Kumagai Shogo , Kameda Tomohito , Saito Yuko , Yoshioka Toshiaki
Published: July 2020

Poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) swelling coupled with ball milling was employed for the simultaneous recovery of high-purity Cu and PVC from waste wire harness under ambient conditions. The experimentally determined performances of 15 organic solvents for PVC swelling and phthalate plasticiser extraction were compared with those predicted considering Hansen solubility parameters. As a result, n-butyl acetate and acetone were identified as the two best solvents for adequate PVC swelling without PVC dissolution and almost complete plasticiser extraction within 60 min. The swelling was concluded to contribute to the control of phthalate plasticisers, the use of which in wire harness has recently been limited by the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directive. Cables swollen with n-butyl acetate or acetone were subjected to dry ball milling for ~ 60 min to completely separate PVC and Cu and achieve the quantitative recovery of these components from 20-cm-long cables. Thus, this work unveils the high potential of recycling the otherwise non-recyclable long and non-uniform waste wire harness cables and is expected to impact the related (e.g., automotive, electrical, and electronics) industries, contributing to the establishment of a more sustainable society.
Bacterial associated urinary tract infection, risk factors, and drug susceptibility profile among adult people living with HIV at Haswassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Hawassa, Southern Esthiopia
Authors: Tessema Netsanet Nigusse , Ali Musa Mohammed , Zenebe Mengistu Hyilemeriam
Published: July 2020

People living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are more likely to develop urinary tract infections (UTI) due to the suppression of their immunity. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, risk factors of UTI, and drug susceptibility pattern of bacteria isolated among peoples infected with HIV. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 224 HIV positive individuals attending Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (HUCSH) from September 17 to November 16, 2018. Midstream urine was collected from all study participants and inoculated on to Blood and MacConkey agar. Bacterial isolates were characterized by Gram stain and standard biochemical tests. Kirby-Bauer method was used for antimicrobial susceptibility testing. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected by a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20. A bivariate and a multivariable regression model were employed to determine the association between dependent and independent variables. From the total 224 study participants, 23 (10.3%) (95% CI 6.7–14.7) had culture-confirmed UTIs. The distributions of the bacteria were as follows: Escherichia coli 16 (69.6%), Staphylococcus aureus 2 (8.7%), Klebsiella pneumoniae 2 (8.7%), Enterobacter aerogenes 2 (8.7%) and Pseudomonas species 1 (4.3%). UTI prevalence was also high among study participants with a previous history of UTI and CD4+ count < 200/mm3. Female study participants were about five times more likely to have UTI (AOR 5.3, 95% CI 1.5–19.2). Ninety-three percent of bacteria isolated were susceptible to nitrofurantoin, ceftriaxone, and gentamycin; 87.5% were susceptible to meropenem and norfloxacin; whereas 93.8%, 68.8%, and 62.5% of isolates were resistant to ampicillin, tetracycline, and cotrimoxazole respectively. Multidrug resistance (MDR) was seen in 18 (78.3%) of bacterial isolates.
Real-world characterization of blood glucose control and insulin use in the intensive care unit
Authors: Baker Lawrence , Maley Jason H. , Arévalo Aldo , DeMichele Francis , Mateo-Collado Roselyn , Finkelstein Stan , Celi Leo Anthony
Published: July 2020

The heterogeneity of critical illness complicates both clinical trial design and real-world management. This complexity has resulted in conflicting evidence and opinion regarding the optimal management in many intensive care scenarios. Understanding this heterogeneity is essential to tailoring management to individual patients. Hyperglycaemia is one such complication in the intensive care unit (ICU), accompanied by decades of conflicting evidence around management strategies. We hypothesized that analysis of highly-detailed electronic medical record (EMR) data would demonstrate that patients vary widely in their glycaemic response to critical illness and response to insulin therapy. Due to this variability, we believed that hyper- and hypoglycaemia would remain common in ICU care despite standardised approaches to management. We utilized the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III v1.4 (MIMIC) database. We identified 19,694 admissions between 2008 and 2012 with available glucose results and insulin administration data. We demonstrate that hyper- and hypoglycaemia are common at the time of admission and remain so 1 week into an ICU admission. Insulin treatment strategies vary significantly, irrespective of blood glucose level or diabetic status. We reveal a tremendous opportunity for EMR data to guide tailored management. Through this work, we have made available a highly-detailed data source for future investigation.
Association study based on topological constraints of protein–protein interaction networks
Authors: Guo Hao-Bo , Qin Hong
Published: July 2020

The non-random interaction pattern of a protein–protein interaction network (PIN) is biologically informative, but its potentials have not been fully utilized in omics studies. Here, we propose a network-permutation-based association study (NetPAS) method that gauges the observed interactions between two sets of genes based on the comparison between permutation null models and the empirical networks. This enables NetPAS to evaluate relationships, constrained by network topology, between gene sets related to different phenotypes. We demonstrated the utility of NetPAS in 50 well-curated gene sets and comparison of association studies using Z-scores, modified Zʹ-scores, p-values and Jaccard indices. Using NetPAS, a weighted human disease network was generated from the association scores of 19 gene sets from OMIM. We also applied NetPAS in gene sets derived from gene ontology and pathway annotations and showed that NetPAS uncovered functional terms missed by DAVID and WebGestalt. Overall, we show that NetPAS can take topological constraints of molecular networks into account and offer new perspectives than existing methods.
Autarkic desorption electrospray ionization source for on-site analysis of consumer goods
Authors: Lotz Florian , Gerbig Stefanie , Lotze Christian , Spengler Bernhard , Schulz Sabine
Published: July 2020

A battery-powered DESI source with integrated solvent/gas supply and novel sampling geometry is presented for daily-goods analysis.
Recognition triggered assembly of split aptamers to initiate a hybridization chain reaction for wash-free and amplified detection of exosomes
Authors: Chen Juan , Tang Jinlu , Meng Hong-Min , Liu Zhuo , Wang Lin , Geng Xin , Wu Yanan , Qu Lingbo , Li Zhaohui
Published: July 2020

A novel split aptamer-based system was developed for the amplified detection of exosomes in situ assisted by a target-induced HCR.
The origin of the hysteresis in cyclic voltammetric response of alkaline methanol electrooxidation
Authors: Haisch Theresa , Kubannek Fabian , Nikitina Lialia , Nikitin Igor , Pott Sabine , Clees Tanja , Krewer Ulrike
Published: July 2020

The origin of the hysteresis is investigated by electrochemical measurements,in situIR spectroscopy and simulations. It is concluded that the formation of platinum oxides rather than the formation of blocking intermediates causes the hysteresis.
Comparative investigation of the thermal transport properties of Janus SnSSe and SnS2 monolayers
Authors: Liu Gang , Wang Hui , Gao Zhibin , Li Guo-Ling
Published: July 2020

The lattice conductivities of Janus monolayers SnSSe and SnS2 are investigated, as well as the underlying physics.
Adsorption and activation of CO2 on Zrn (n = 2–7) clusters
Authors: Megha  , Mondal Krishnakanta , Banerjee Arup , Ghanty Tapan K.
Published: July 2020

The selective dissociation of CO2 molecule on small-sized Zrn (n = 2–7) clusters.
Electrochemical stability of glyme-based electrolytes for Li–O2 batteries studied by in situ infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Horwitz Gabriela , Calvo Ernesto J. , Méndez De Leo Lucila P. , de la Llave Ezequiel
Published: July 2020

Tetraglyme-based electrolytes are intrinsically unstable even in the absence of oxygen and lithium ions. While diglyme-based electrolytes show better stability, the addition of water exacerbates their decomposition.
Directing nitrogen-doped carbon support chemistry for improved aqueous phase hydrogenation catalysis
Authors: Bosilj Monika , Rustam Lina , Thomann Ralf , Melke Julia , Fischer Anna , White Robin J.
Published: July 2020

Influencing stability and performance through directing nitrogen-doping in carbon support materials.
Understanding the co-effects of manganese and cobalt on the enhanced SCR performance for MnxCo1−xCr2O4 spinel-type catalysts
Authors: Gao Erhao , Huang Bei , Zhao Zilong , Pan Hua , Zhang Wei , Li Younan , Bernards Matthew T. , He Yi , Shi Yao
Published: July 2020

A novel ternary Mn0.1Co0.9Cr2O4 catalyst was identified from a range of chromium-based spinel-type oxides for the SCR of NOx in coking flue gas. The SCR reaction mainly occurs between the adsorbed NH3 and the adsorbed nitrates, following the Langmuir–Hinshelwood mechanism.