bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Hourly Prediction Model of Relativistic Electrons Based on Empirical Mode Decomposition
Authors: Qian Yedong , Yang Jianwei , Zhang Hua , Shen Chao , Wu Yewen
Published: July 2019

During the recovery of a magnetic storm, the relativistic electrons at megaelectron volt energy from the outer radiation belt will be enhanced at the geosynchronous orbit. In particular, the >2‐MeV electrons could penetrate the surface of satellites and accumulate inside. After a long period, such an electron flux effect could cause satellites to be unable to function properly or to fail completely. Unlike previous prediction models of relativistic electrons focusing mainly on forecasting the daily value, we have developed an hourly prediction model to learn more detailed changes. In addition, due to external forcing by the solar wind, relativistic electron flux changes rapidly and is very nonstationary during magnetic storms. We use the method of empirical mode decomposition to reduce these effects. The result shows that the average prediction efficiency of hourly predictions of relativistic electrons from 2001 to 2006 is approximately 0.73. Moreover, we use this method to forecast daily fluence to validate empirical mode decomposition. The prediction efficiency of daily fluence from 2001 to 2006 is 0.80, and for the period in which the relativistic electrons change particularly rapidly during 2001–2004, the prediction efficiency is 0.79. Meanwhile, we compare with the prediction values without using empirical mode decomposition. The result shows a great improvement using this method. Furthermore, it shows that the nonstationary nature of the electron flux time series has a great impact on the prediction of relativistic electrons.
Past Variability of Mediterranean Sea Marine Heatwaves
Authors: Darmaraki Sofia , Somot Samuel , Sevault Florence , Nabat Pierre
Published: July 2019

Marine heatwaves (MHWs) are episodes of anomalous warming in the ocean, responsible for widespread impacts on marine ecosystems. For the first time summer MHW variability at surface and three ecosystem‐relevant depths of the upper Mediterranean Sea are assessed here for 1982–2017. We apply a MHW detection algorithm on a hindcast simulation, performed with a high‐resolution, fully coupled regional climate system model. Identified surface events last, on average, 15 days with a mean intensity of 0.6 °C above threshold and a maximum sea surface coverage of around 39%. Subsurface events are seasonally shifted and appear, on average, longer and more intense but less frequent and less extended in space than surface MHWs. We also find significant trends of increase in most MHW properties throughout the period, with severe surface MHWs detected for the first time in 2012, 2015, and 2017. However, MHW spatial ≪ hot spots ≫ are inhomogeneously distributed in surface and deeper layers.
Climate Sensitivity on Geological Timescales Controlled by Nonlinear Feedbacks and Ocean Circulation
Authors: Farnsworth A. , Lunt D. J. , O'Brien C. L. , Foster G. L. , Inglis G. N. , Markwick P. , Pancost R. D. , Robinson S. A.
Published: July 2019

Climate sensitivity is a key metric used to assess the magnitude of global warming given increased CO2 concentrations. The geological past can provide insights into climate sensitivity; however, on timescales of millions of years, factors other than CO2 can drive climate, including paleogeographic forcing and solar luminosity. Here, through an ensemble of climate model simulations covering the period 150–35 million years ago, we show that climate sensitivity to CO2 doubling varies between ∼3.5 and 5.5 °C through this time. These variations can be explained as a nonlinear response to solar luminosity, evolving surface albedo due to changes in ocean area, and changes in ocean circulation. The work shows that the modern climate sensitivity is relatively low in the context of the geological record, as a result of relatively weak feedbacks due to a relatively low CO2 baseline, and the presence of ice and relatively small ocean area in the modern continental configuration.
The Seasonality and Regionality of MJO Impacts on North American Temperature
Authors: Jenney A. M. , Nardi K. M. , Barnes E. A. , Randall D. A.
Published: July 2019

It is widely accepted that the Madden‐Julian Oscillation's (MJO) influence on North American temperature is strongest in winter. A growing body of literature demonstrates that the MJO also influences North American weather in other seasons. Here we use observations to investigate the seasonality and regionality of the MJO's impact on weather station daily maximum air temperature over North America (NA). Consistent with previous work, we find the strongest MJO signal in temperatures over eastern NA and Alaska during winter. However, the peak MJO signals over much of central NA, western NA, and south Texas occur outside of winter. We investigate how this translates to forecast skill and conduct leave‐one‐out cross‐validated empirical forecasts of maximum surface air temperature using the phase of the MJO and lead time as predictors. Our results suggest the potential for more skillful long‐range forecasts of weather over NA during spring, summer, and fall.
Creep Deformation in Vaca Muerta Shale From Nanoindentation to Triaxial Experiments
Authors: Mighani Saied , Bernabé Yves , Boulenouar Abdelhamid , Mok Ulrich , Evans Brian
Published: July 2019

We tested samples cored from the Vaca Muerta shale reservoir using nanoindentation (2 min) and triaxial (12 hr) creep experiments in which confining pressure and differential stresses were <40 MPa. In all cases, we observed transient creep wherein strain increased as the logarithm of time. Creep was always compactional, led to increased moduli, was triggered by changes in either hydrostatic or deviatoric stress, and occurred under loads well below the failure stress. Our results are consistent with yield cap models proposed to describe shear‐enhanced compaction of sandstones and carbonates, assuming that the yield surface depends on strain rate. We compared our results to earlier studies that observed the transition from transient creep to approximately constant strain rate behavior. If short‐term creep can be quantified by a creep modulus, C, and long‐term creep, after a transition time, tc, by a linear viscosity, η, then η = Ctc. Owing to heterogeneity, the local values of Young's and creep moduli, E and C, measured during nanoindentation, varied by several orders of magnitude. Simple averaging of the indentation results overestimated E and C, as compared to their triaxial counterparts. The kinetics of log time creep, which is seen in various materials and loading circumstances, has been represented by a simple conceptual model incorporating the interplay of viscoelastic elements with widely distributed characteristic times. Thus, we argue that log time creep is an emerging phenomenon, independent of the identities of the underlying physical mechanisms.
Introduction to Special Issue on Gas Hydrate in Porous Media: Linking Laboratory and Field‐Scale Phenomena
Authors: Ruppel C. D. , Lee J. Y. , Pecher I.
Published: July 2019

The proliferation of drilling expeditions focused on characterizing natural gas hydrate as a potential energy resource has spawned widespread interest in gas hydrate reservoir properties and associated porous media phenomena. Between 2017 and 2019, a Special Section of this journal compiled contributed papers elucidating interactions between gas hydrate and sediment based on laboratory, numerical modeling, and field studies. Motivated mostly by field observations in the northern Gulf of Mexico and offshore Japan, several papers focus on the mechanisms for gas hydrate formation and accumulation, particularly with vapor phase gas, not dissolved gas, as the precursor to hydrate. These studies rely on numerical modeling or laboratory experiments using sediment packs or benchtop micromodels. A second focus of the Special Section is the role of fines in inhibiting production of gas from methane hydrate, controlling the distribution of hydrate at a pore scale, and influencing the bulk behavior of seafloor sediments. Other papers fill knowledge gaps related to the physical properties of hydrate‐bearing sediments and advance new approaches in coupled thermal‐mechanical modeling of these sediments during hydrate dissociation. Finally, one study addresses the long‐standing question about the fate of methane hydrate at the molecular level when CO2 is injected into natural reservoirs under hydrate‐forming conditions.
Characteristics of Heavy Particulate Matter Pollution Events Over Hong Kong and Their Relationships With Vertical Wind Profiles Using High‐Time‐Resolution Doppler Lidar Measurements
Authors: Yang Yuanjian , Yim Steve H.L. , Haywood Jim , Osborne Martin , Chan Jazz C.S. , Zeng Zhaoliang , Cheng Jack C.H.
Published: July 2019

Previous studies have reported boundary layer features related to air pollution. However, few studies have comprehensively evaluated the characteristics and mechanisms of vertical wind in the formation and evolution of heavy particulate matter pollution episodes (EP) in Hong Kong. In this study, we analyzed the vertical characteristics of heavy particulate matter (PM) pollutions over Hong Kong and their relationships with vertical wind profiles using high‐time‐resolution Doppler lidar measurements and hourly meteorological and air quality observations. We identified nine EPs and show that the events were closely coupled to various vertical wind profiles in the planetary boundary layer (PBL). Our analysis suggests that strong vertical wind speed with wind shear at certain heights in the PBL had a positive correlation with surface PM during most superregional transboundary EPs. The maximum transport height extends from the surface to about 2.0 km or even higher; these transport heights differed among superregional and regional transboundary EPs. At peak surface pollution concentrations during the nine EPs, the surface PM10 had a significant negative correlation with PBL heights/mixing layer heights, while the averaged wind shear in the PBL was significantly positively correlated. These EPs with different mixing layer heights were mainly driven by different vertical wind shear conditions under various weather systems related to surface high pressure, cold fronts, dust storms, and typhoons. This work provides scientific evidence that surface PM pollutions were closely related to the characteristics of vertical profiles during the transboundary air pollutions.
Quantifying Riverine Recharge Impacts on Redox Conditions and Arsenic Release in Groundwater Aquifers Along the Red River, Vietnam
Authors: Nghiem Athena A. , Stahl Mason O. , Mailloux Brian J. , Mai Tran Thi , Trang Pham Thi , Viet Pham Hung , Harvey Charles F. , van Geen Alexander , Bostick Benjamin C.
Published: July 2019

Widespread contamination of groundwater with geogenic arsenic is attributed to microbial dissolution of arsenic‐bearing iron (oxyhydr)oxides minerals coupled to the oxidation of organic carbon. The recharge sources to an aquifer can influence groundwater arsenic concentrations by transport of dissolved arsenic or reactive constituents that affect arsenic mobilization. To understand how different recharge sources affect arsenic contamination—in particular through their influence on organic carbon and sulfate cycling—we delineated and quantified recharge sources in the arsenic affected region around Hanoi, Vietnam. We constrained potential end‐member compositions and employed a novel end‐member mixing model using an ensemble approach to apportion recharge sources. Groundwater arsenic and dissolved organic carbon concentrations are controlled by the dominant source of recharge. High arsenic concentrations are prevalent regardless of high dissolved organic carbon or ammonium levels, indicative of organic matter decomposition, where the dominant recharge source is riverine. In contrast, high dissolved organic carbon and significant organic matter decomposition are required to generate elevated groundwater arsenic where recharge is largely nonriverine. These findings suggest that in areas of riverine recharge, arsenic may be efficiently mobilized from reactive surficial environments and carried from river‐aquifer interfaces into groundwater. In groundwaters derived from nonriverine recharge areas, significantly more organic carbon mineralization is required to obtain equivalent levels of arsenic mobilization within inland sediments. This method can be broadly applied to examine the connection between hydrology, geochemistry and groundwater quality.
Does Duration of Residency in the United States Influence Psychological Symptoms and Postmigration Stressors Among Refugees? Potential Implications of Populism for Refugee Mental Health
Authors: Bentley Jacob A. , Dolezal Michael L. , Alsubaie Mohammed K.
Published: July 2019

After relocation, refugees may experience significant difficulty adjusting to a host culture, and this difficulty may persist even after many years following resettlement. However, the influence of time on postmigration living difficulties (PMLD) and psychological distress has not been extensively investigated. In this investigation, we used regression analyses to examine whether length of residence in the United States would moderate the relationship between psychological symptoms and PMLD in a sample of 52 adult East African refugees. The sample was predominantly male (female n = 13) with a mean age of ∼37 years ( SD = 20.91) and mean length of residence in the United States of 9.9 years ( SD = 5.85). The moderating effect of years living in the United States on the depression–PMLD relationship was significant, and explained an additional 9% of variance in PMLD. The relationship between depressive symptoms and PMLD became significantly related at ∼7 years of residence in the United States, and became more positive as values in the sample approached the longest duration in the United States (30 years). No such moderating effect was found for the association between posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms and PMLD. These results highlight the risk of marginalization as well as the need for early and sustained psychosocial interventions for refugee populations in the United States.
RACK1 interaction with c-Src is essential for osteoclast function
Authors: Park Jin Hee , Jeong Eutteum , Lin Jingjing , Ko Ryeojin , Kim Ji Hee , Yi Sol , Choi Youngjin , Kang In-Cheol , Lee Daekee , Lee Soo Young
Published: July 2019

The scaffolding protein receptor for activated C-kinase 1 (RACK1) mediates receptor activator of nuclear factor κΒ ligand (RANKL)-dependent activation of p38 MAPK in osteoclast precursors; however, the role of RACK1 in mature osteoclasts is unclear. The aim of our study was to identify the interaction between RACK1 and c-Src that is critical for osteoclast function. A RACK1 mutant protein (mutations of tyrosine 228 and 246 residues to phenylalanine; RACK1 Y228F/Y246F) did not interact with c-Src. The mutant retained its ability to differentiate into osteoclasts; however, the integrity of the RANKL-mediated cytoskeleton, bone resorption activity, and phosphorylation of c-Src was significantly decreased. Importantly, lysine 152 (K152) within the Src homology 2 (SH2) domain of c-Src is involved in RACK1 binding. The c-Src K152R mutant (mutation of lysine 152 into arginine) impaired the resorption of bone by osteoclasts. These findings not only clarify the role of the RACK1-c-Src axis as a key regulator of osteoclast function but will also help to develop new antiresorption therapies to prevent bone loss-related diseases.
Phase I/II trial of bendamustine, ixazomib, and dexamethasone in relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Dhakal Binod , D’Souza Anita , Hamadani Mehdi , Arce-Lara Carlos , Schroeder Katrina , Chhabra Saurabh , Shah Nirav N. , Gauger Katelyn , Keaton Taylor , Pasquini Marcelo , Hari Parameswaran
Published: July 2019

In this phase I/II trial, BID, bendamustine (70, 80, or 90 mg/m2), ixazomib (4 mg), and dexamethasone (40 mg), was administered to 28 patients with relapsed and/or refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) exposed to bortezomib and lenalidomide and refractory to at least one. A 3 + 3 dose escalation based on dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) was employed in phase I (total 15); 2/6 patients developed DLTs (neutropenia and thrombocytopenia) at dose level 3 establishing the recommended phase II dose as bendamustine 80 mg/m2, ixazomib 4 mg, and dexamethasone 40 mg. The median age was 67 years (range, 42–72), and 43% were females. Patients received a median of 4 (range, 4–9) prior lines of therapy, of which ~50% were double refractory. In phase II, total 19 patients were treated. With a median follow-up of 17 months, 11% achieved very good partial response, 50% achieved partial response, and 27% achieved stable disease. Median progression free (PFS) and overall (OS) survival were 5.2 months (95% CI, 1.96–8.3) and 23.2 months (95% CI 16.3–30.07). The most frequent adverse events were anemia, thrombocytopenia, leukopenia, nausea, diarrhea, and infections. Peripheral neuropathy was infrequent. BID is a well-tolerated and effective combination therapy for patients with RRMM.
Author Correction: Caveolin-1 promotes invasion and metastasis by upregulating Pofut1 expression in mouse hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Huang Huang , Zhang Junshi , Wu Qiong , Chen Xixi , Huang Tianmiao , Li Wenli , Liu Yubo , Zhang Jianing
Published: July 2019

Since publication of this paper, the authors have noticed an error in one of the images. In Fig. 2c, the graphs of c-Myc and CREB are incorrect. During image synthesis, these two images were confused with other images from the raw data. The error does not impact the conclusions of the article. The authors would like to apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused.

This has been corrected in both the PDF and HTML versions of the Article.

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Long noncoding RNA LINC02418 regulates MELK expression by acting as a ceRNA and may serve as a diagnostic marker for colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhao Yinghui , Du Tiantian , Du Lutao , Li Peilong , Li Juan , Duan Weili , Wang Yunshan , Wang Chuanxin
Published: July 2019

Some types of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are aberrantly expressed in human diseases, including cancer. However, the overall biological roles and clinical significances of most lncRNAs in colorectal cancer (CRC) are not fully understood. First, The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was analyzed to identify differentially expressed lncRNAs between CRC tissues and noncancerous tissues. We identified that LINC02418 was highly expressed in CRC tissues and cell lines. Next, we evaluated the effect of LINC02418 on CRC tumorigenesis and its regulatory functions of absorbing microRNA and indirectly stimulating protein expression by acting as a ceRNA. Mechanistically, LINC02418 acted as a ceRNA to upregulate MELK expression by absorbing miR-1273g-3p. In addition, the diagnostic performance of cell-free LINC02418 and exosomal LINC02418 were both evaluated by the receiver operating characteristic curve and the area under the curve (AUC). Exosomal LINC02418 could distinguish the patients with CRC from the healthy controls (AUC = 0.8978, 95% confidence interval = 0.8644–0.9351) better than cell-free LINC02418 (AUC = 0.6784, 95% confidence interval = 0.6116–0.7452). Collectively, we determined that LINC02418 was significantly overexpressed in CRC and that the LINC02418–miR-1273g-3p–MELK axis played a critical role in CRC tumorigenesis. Finally, exosomal LINC02418 is a promising, novel biomarker that can be used for the clinical diagnosis of CRC.
Experimental realization of a non-magnetic one-way spin switch
Authors: Mossman Maren E. , Hou Junpeng , Luo Xi-Wang , Zhang Chuanwei , Engels Peter
Published: July 2019

Controlling magnetism through non-magnetic means is highly desirable for future electronic devices, as such means typically have ultra-low power requirements and can provide coherent control. In recent years, great experimental progress has been made in the field of electrical manipulation of magnetism in numerous material systems. These studies generally do not consider the directionality of the applied non-magnetic potentials and/or magnetism switching. Here, we theoretically conceive and experimentally demonstrate a non-magnetic one-way spin switch device using a spin-orbit coupled Bose–Einstein condensate subjected to a moving spin-independent repulsive dipole potential. The physical foundation of this unidirectional device is based on the breakdown of Galilean invariance in the presence of spin-orbit coupling. Such a one-way spin switch opens an avenue for designing quantum devices with unique functionalities and may facilitate further experimental investigations of other one-way spintronic and atomtronic devices.
Single-cell CAS-seq reveals a class of short PIWI-interacting RNAs in human oocytes
Authors: Yang Qiyuan , Li Ronghong , Lyu Qifeng , Hou Li , Liu Zhen , Sun Qiang , Liu Miao , Shi Huijuan , Xu Beiying , Yin Mingru , Yan Zhiguang , Huang Ying , Liu Mofang , Li Yiping , Wu Ligang
Published: July 2019

Small RNAs have important functions. However, small RNAs in primate oocytes remain unexplored. Herein, we develop CAS-seq, a single-cell small RNA sequencing method, and profile the small RNAs in human oocytes and embryos. We discover a class of ~20-nt small RNAs that are predominantly expressed in human and monkey oocytes, but not in mouse oocytes. They are specifically associated with HIWI3 (PIWIL3), whereas significantly shorter than the commonly known PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs), designated as oocyte short piRNAs (os-piRNAs). Notably, the os-piRNAs in human oocytes lack 2’-O-methylation at the 3’ end, a hallmark of the classic piRNAs. In addition, the os-piRNAs have a strong 1U/10 A bias and are enriched on the antisense strands of recently evolved transposable elements (TEs), indicating the potential function of silencing TEs by cleavage. Therefore, our study has identified an oocyte-specific piRNA family with distinct features and provides valuable resources for studying small RNAs in primate oocytes.
Octa-coordinated alkaline earth metal–dinitrogen complexes M(N2)8 (M=Ca, Sr, Ba)
Authors: Wang Qian , Pan Sudip , Lei Shujun , Jin Jiaye , Deng Guohai , Wang Guanjun , Zhao Lili , Zhou Mingfei , Frenking Gernot
Published: July 2019

We report the isolation and spectroscopic identification of the eight-coordinated alkaline earth metal–dinitrogen complexes M(N2)8 (M=Ca, Sr, Ba) possessing cubic (Oh) symmetry in a low-temperature neon matrix. The analysis of the electronic structure reveals that the metal-N2 bonds are mainly due to [M(dπ)]→(N2)8 π backdonation, which explains the observed large red-shift in N-N stretching frequencies. The adducts M(N2)8 have a triplet (3A1g) electronic ground state and exhibit typical bonding features of transition metal complexes obeying the 18-electron rule. We also report the isolation and bonding analysis of the charged dinitrogen complexes [M(N2)8]+ (M=Ca, Sr).
Identifying substitutional oxygen as a prolific point defect in monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Barja Sara , Refaely-Abramson Sivan , Schuler Bruno , Qiu Diana Y. , Pulkin Artem , Wickenburg Sebastian , Ryu Hyejin , Ugeda Miguel M. , Kastl Christoph , Chen Christopher , Hwang Choongyu , Schwartzberg Adam , Aloni Shaul , Mo Sung-Kwan , Frank Ogletree D. , Crommie Michael F. , Yazyev Oleg V. , Louie Steven G. , Neaton Jeffrey B. , Weber-Bargioni Alexander
Published: July 2019

Chalcogen vacancies are generally considered to be the most common point defects in transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) semiconductors because of their low formation energy in vacuum and their frequent observation in transmission electron microscopy studies. Consequently, unexpected optical, transport, and catalytic properties in 2D-TMDs have been attributed to in-gap states associated with chalcogen vacancies, even in the absence of direct experimental evidence. Here, we combine low-temperature non-contact atomic force microscopy, scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy, and state-of-the-art ab initio density functional theory and GW calculations to determine both the atomic structure and electronic properties of an abundant chalcogen-site point defect common to MoSe2 and WS2 monolayers grown by molecular beam epitaxy and chemical vapor deposition, respectively. Surprisingly, we observe no in-gap states. Our results strongly suggest that the common chalcogen defects in the described 2D-TMD semiconductors, measured in vacuum environment after gentle annealing, are oxygen substitutional defects, rather than vacancies.
Atomic-scale engineering of indium oxide promotion by palladium for methanol production via CO2 hydrogenation
Authors: Frei Matthias S. , Mondelli Cecilia , García-Muelas Rodrigo , Kley Klara S. , Puértolas Begoña , López Núria , Safonova Olga V. , Stewart Joseph A. , Curulla Ferré Daniel , Pérez-Ramírez Javier
Published: July 2019

Metal promotion is broadly applied to enhance the performance of heterogeneous catalysts to fulfill industrial requirements. Still, generating and quantifying the effect of the promoter speciation that exclusively introduces desired properties and ensures proximity to or accommodation within the active site and durability upon reaction is very challenging. Recently, In2O3was discovered as a highly selective and stable catalyst for green methanol production from CO2. Activity boosting by promotion with palladium, an efficient H2-splitter, was partially successful since palladium nanoparticles mediate the parasitic reverse water–gas shift reaction, reducing selectivity, and sinter or alloy with indium, limiting metal utilization and robustness. Here, we show that the precise palladium atoms architecture reached by controlled co-precipitation eliminates these limitations. Palladium atoms replacing indium atoms in the active In3O5ensemble attract additional palladium atoms deposited onto the surface forming low-nuclearity clusters, which foster H2activation and remain unaltered, enabling record productivities for 500 h.
Target specific functions of EPL interneurons in olfactory circuits
Authors: Liu Gary , Froudarakis Emmanouil , Patel Jay M. , Kochukov Mikhail Y. , Pekarek Brandon , Hunt Patrick J. , Patel Mayuri , Ung Kevin , Fu Chia-Hsuan , Jo Juyeong , Lee Hyun-Kyoung , Tolias Andreas S. , Arenkiel Benjamin R.
Published: July 2019

Inhibitory interneurons are integral to sensory processing, yet revealing their cell type-specific roles in sensory circuits remains an ongoing focus. To Investigate the mouse olfactory system, we selectively remove GABAergic transmission from a subset of olfactory bulb interneurons, EPL interneurons (EPL-INs), and assay odor responses from their downstream synaptic partners — tufted cells and mitral cells. Using a combination of in vivo electrophysiological and imaging analyses, we find that inactivating this single node of inhibition leads to differential effects in magnitude, reliability, tuning width, and temporal dynamics between the two principal neurons. Furthermore, tufted and not mitral cell responses to odor mixtures become more linearly predictable without EPL-IN inhibition. Our data suggest that olfactory bulb interneurons, through exerting distinct inhibitory functions onto their different synaptic partners, play a significant role in the processing of odor information.
Historical phenotypic data from seven decades of seed regeneration in a wheat ex situ collection
Authors: Philipp Norman , Weise Stephan , Oppermann Markus , Börner Andreas , Keilwagen Jens , Kilian Benjamin , Arend Daniel , Zhao Yusheng , Graner Andreas , Reif Jochen C. , Schulthess Albert W.
Published: July 2019

Genebanks are valuable sources of genetic diversity, which can help to cope with future problems of global food security caused by a continuously growing population, stagnating yields and climate change. However, the scarcity of phenotypic and genotypic characterization of genebank accessions severely restricts their use in plant breeding. To warrant the seed integrity of individual accessions during periodical regeneration cycles in the field phenotypic characterizations are performed. This study provides non-orthogonal historical data of 12,754 spring and winter wheat accessions characterized for flowering time, plant height, and thousand grain weight during 70 years of seed regeneration at the German genebank. Supported by historical weather observations outliers were removed following a previously described quality assessment pipeline. In this way, ready-to-use processed phenotypic data across regeneration years were generated and further validated. We encourage international and national genebanks to increase their efforts to transform into bio-digital resource centers. A first important step could consist in unlocking their historical data treasures that allows an educated choice of accessions by scientists and breeders.
A triphenylethylene nonsteroidal SERM attenuates cervical cancer growth
Authors: Chauhan Neeraj , Maher Diane M. , Yallapu Murali M. , B. Hafeez Bilal , Singh Man M. , Chauhan Subhash C. , Jaggi Meena
Published: July 2019

Selective estrogen receptor modulator drug molecules of triphenylethylene family have gained considerable attention as anti-cancer agents. Despite recent advances in screening and development of HPV vaccines, cervical cancer remains one of the deadliest malignancies as advanced stage metastatic disease is mostly untreatable, thus warrants newer therapeutic strategies. Ormeloxifene (ORM) is a well-known SERM of triphenylethylene family that has been approved for human use, thus represents an ideal molecule for repurposing. In this study, we for the first time have demonstrated the anti-cancerous properties of ormeloxifene in cervical cancer. Ormeloxifene efficiently attenuated tumorigenic and metastatic properties of cervical cancer cells via arresting cell cycle at G1-S transition, inducing apoptosis, decreasing PI3K and Akt phosphorylation, mitochondrial membrane potential, and modulating G1-S transition related proteins (p21, cyclin E and Cdk2). Moreover, ORM repressed the expression of HPV E6/ E7 oncoproteins and restored the expression of their downstream target tumor suppressor proteins (p53, Rb and PTPN 13). As a result, ormeloxifene induces radio-sensitization in cervical cancer cells and caused potent tumor growth inhibition in orthotopic mouse model. Taken together, ormeloxifene represents an alternative therapeutic modality for cervical cancer which may have rapid clinical translation as it is already proven safe for human use.
Lower Attentional Skills predict increased exploratory foraging patterns
Authors: Van den Driessche Charlotte , Chevrier Françoise , Cleeremans Axel , Sackur Jérôme
Published: July 2019

When engaged in a search task, one needs to arbitrate between exploring and exploiting the environment to optimize the outcome. Many intrinsic, task and environmental factors are known to influence the exploration/exploitation balance. Here, in a non clinical population, we show that the level of inattention (assessed as a trait) is one such factor: children with higher scores on an ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) questionnaire exhibited longer transitions between consecutively retrieved items, in both a visual and a semantic search task. These more frequent exploration behaviours were associated with differential performance patterns: children with higher levels of ADHD traits performed better in semantic search, while their performance was unaffected in visual search. Our results contribute to the growing literature suggesting that ADHD should not be simply conceived as a pure deficit of attention, but also as a specific cognitive strategy that may prove beneficial in some contexts.
An experimental study of a virtual reality counselling paradigm using embodied self-dialogue
Authors: Slater Mel , Neyret Solène , Johnston Tania , Iruretagoyena Guillermo , Crespo Mercè Álvarez de la Campa , Alabèrnia-Segura Miquel , Spanlang Bernhard , Feixas Guillem
Published: July 2019

When faced with a personal problem people typically give better advice to others than to themselves. A previous study showed how it is possible to enact internal dialogue in virtual reality (VR) through participants alternately occupying two different virtual bodies – one representing themselves and the other Sigmund Freud. They could maintain a self-conversation by explaining their problem to the virtual Freud and then from the embodied perspective of Freud see and hear the explanation by their virtual doppelganger, and then give some advice. Alternating between the two bodies they could maintain a self-dialogue, as if between two different people. Here we show that the process of alternating between their own and the Freud body is important for successful psychological outcomes. An experiment was carried out with 58 people, 29 in the body swapping Self-Conversation condition and 29 in a condition where they only spoke to a Scripted Freud character. The results showed that the Self-Conversation method results in a greater perception of change and help compared to the Scripted. We compare this method with the distancing paradigm where participants imagine resolving a problem from a first or third person perspective. We consider the method as a possible strategy for self-counselling.
Bubble formation and scale dependence in free-surface air entrainment
Authors: Wei Wangru , Xu Weilin , Deng Jun , Tian Zhong , Zhang Faxing
Published: July 2019

The air bubble entrainment and self–aeration phenomena in free-surface water flows reveal a rich interplay of fundamental science and engineering, and the size distribution of the entrained bubbles enhances the air–water gas flux, improves the gas transfer, and influences the cavitation erosion protection in high–speed flows. In the present study, we investigate the bubble–formation mechanism of free–surface air entrainment and the related microscopic bubble scale in the laboratory. This paper provides a quantitative description of bubble entrainment. The entrapment deformation of the local free surface over a period follows a power–law scaling and entrains a bubble when the entrapped surface becomes enclosed in the unstable movement period. Both the size scale and shape character of the entrapped free surface determine the size and skewness of the distribution of the air bubble. The entrapment deformation process confirms that the instability behaviour of the local air–water interface results in the onset of bubble entrainment. Further research is necessary to elucidate the instability criterion dominated by the interface instability and promote a new understanding of multiphase flow generation and development.
Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, and Control of Hypertension in Korea
Authors: Kang Si-Hyuck , Kim Sun-Hwa , Cho Jun Hwan , Yoon Chang-Hwan , Hwang Seung-Sik , Lee Hae-Young , Youn Tae-Jin , Chae In-Ho , Kim Cheol-Ho
Published: July 2019

The purpose of the present study was to describe the temporal trends in prevalence and management status of hypertension in Korea between 1998 and 2015. Data of adults who were aged 30 years or older were extracted from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, a nationwide representative population-based survey. Hypertension was prevalent in 30.5% of Korean adults. The age and sex standardized prevalence showed little change between 1998 and 2015. The elderly population and men showed higher prevalence. The rates of awareness, treatment, and control showed substantial improvements among hypertensive subjects between 1998 and the time period of 2007‒2009 (awareness, from 23.5 to 66.3%; treatment, from 20.4 to 60.3%; and control, from 4.9 to 42.1%), after which the numbers reached a plateau and no significant changes were observed subsequently (67.3%, 63.6%, and 46.2%, respectively, between 2013 and 2015). The management status remained poor especially among the young population and in men. In conclusion, the hypertension prevalence remained stable at approximately 30% in Korea between 1998 and 2015. While awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension improved remarkably, the young population and particularly men showed a suboptimal management status.
Mesoporous graphene adsorbents for the removal of toluene and xylene at various concentrations and its reusability
Authors: Lim Sun Taek , Kim Ji Hoon , Lee Chang Yeon , Koo Sangmo , Jerng Dong-Wook , Wongwises Somchai , Ahn Ho Seon
Published: July 2019

As novel technologies have been developed, emissions of gases of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have increased. These affect human health and are destructive to the environment, contributing to global warming. Hence, regulations on the use of volatile organic compounds have been strengthened. Therefore, powerful adsorbents are required for volatile organic compounds gases. In this study, we used graphene powder with a mesoporous structure to adsorb aromatic compounds such as toluene and xylene at various concentrations (30, 50, 100 ppm). The configuration and chemical composition of the adsorbents were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), N2 adsorption-desorption isotherm measurements, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The adsorption test was carried out using a polypropylene filter, which contained the adsorbents (0.25 g), with analysis performed using a gas detector. Compared to graphite oxide (GO) powder, the specific surface area of thermally expanded graphene powder (TEGP800) increased significantly, to 542 m2 g−1, and its chemical properties transformed from polar to non-polar. Thermally expanded graphene powder exhibits high adsorption efficiency for toluene (92.7–98.3%) and xylene (96.7–98%) and its reusability is remarkable, being at least 91%.
Double-deep Q-learning to increase the efficiency of metasurface holograms
Authors: Sajedian Iman , Lee Heon , Rho Junsuk
Published: July 2019

We use a double deep Q-learning network (DDQN) to find the right material type and the optimal geometrical design for metasurface holograms to reach high efficiency. The DDQN acts like an intelligent sweep and could identify the optimal results in ~5.7 billion states after only 2169 steps. The optimal results were found between 23 different material types and various geometrical properties for a three-layer structure. The computed transmission efficiency was 32% for high-quality metasurface holograms; this is two times bigger than the previously reported results under the same conditions. The found structure is transmission-type and polarization-independent and works in the visible region.
Host circadian rhythms are disrupted during malaria infection in parasite genotype-specific manners
Authors: Prior Kimberley F. , O’Donnell Aidan J. , Rund Samuel S. C. , Savill Nicholas J. , van der Veen Daan R. , Reece Sarah E.
Published: July 2019

Infection can dramatically alter behavioural and physiological traits as hosts become sick and subsequently return to health. Such “sickness behaviours” include disrupted circadian rhythms in both locomotor activity and body temperature. Host sickness behaviours vary in pathogen species-specific manners but the influence of pathogen intraspecific variation is rarely studied. We examine how infection with the murine malaria parasite, Plasmodium chabaudi, shapes sickness in terms of parasite genotype-specific effects on host circadian rhythms. We reveal that circadian rhythms in host locomotor activity patterns and body temperature become differentially disrupted and in parasite genotype-specific manners. Locomotor activity and body temperature in combination provide more sensitive measures of health than commonly used virulence metrics for malaria (e.g. anaemia). Moreover, patterns of host disruption cannot be explained simply by variation in replication rate across parasite genotypes or the severity of anaemia each parasite genotype causes. It is well known that disruption to circadian rhythms is associated with non-infectious diseases, including cancer, type 2 diabetes, and obesity. Our results reveal that disruption of host circadian rhythms is a genetically variable virulence trait of pathogens with implications for host health and disease tolerance.
Alpha-synuclein is a DNA binding protein that modulates DNA repair with implications for Lewy body disorders
Authors: Schaser Allison J. , Osterberg Valerie R. , Dent Sydney E. , Stackhouse Teresa L. , Wakeham Colin M. , Boutros Sydney W. , Weston Leah J. , Owen Nichole , Weissman Tamily A. , Luna Esteban , Raber Jacob , Luk Kelvin C. , McCullough Amanda K. , Woltjer Randall L. , Unni Vivek K.
Published: July 2019

Alpha-synuclein is a presynaptic protein that forms abnormal cytoplasmic aggregates in Lewy body disorders. Although nuclear alpha-synuclein localization has been described, its function in the nucleus is not well understood. We demonstrate that alpha-synuclein modulates DNA repair. First, alpha-synuclein colocalizes with DNA damage response components within discrete foci in human cells and mouse brain. Removal of alpha-synuclein in human cells leads to increased DNA double-strand break (DSB) levels after bleomycin treatment and a reduced ability to repair these DSBs. Similarly, alpha-synuclein knock-out mice show increased neuronal DSBs that can be rescued by transgenic reintroduction of human alpha-synuclein. Alpha-synuclein binds double-stranded DNA and helps to facilitate the non-homologous end-joining reaction. Using a new, in vivo imaging approach that we developed, we find that serine-129-phosphorylated alpha-synuclein is rapidly recruited to DNA damage sites in living mouse cortex. We find that Lewy inclusion-containing neurons in both mouse model and human-derived patient tissue demonstrate increased DSB levels. Based on these data, we propose a model whereby cytoplasmic aggregation of alpha-synuclein reduces its nuclear levels, increases DSBs, and may contribute to programmed cell death via nuclear loss-of-function. This model could inform development of new treatments for Lewy body disorders by targeting alpha-synuclein-mediated DNA repair mechanisms.
Factors influencing clinical outcomes in patients with diabetic macular edema treated with intravitreal ranibizumab: comparison between responder and non-responder cases
Authors: Chen Yen-Po , Wu Ai-Ling , Chuang Chih-Chun , Chen San-Ni
Published: July 2019

Diabetic macular edema (DME) is the leading cause of visual impairment in patients with diabetes mellitus. A retrospective study was conducted to investigate the factors influencing the clinical outcomes in 73 patients (94 eyes) with DME treated with intravitreal ranibizumab therapy. Baseline demographic, systemic, and ocular data were assessed for the association with visual and anatomic outcomes after treatment. The mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved from 0.92 ± 0.45 to 0.61 ± 0.43 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (LogMAR) (p < 0.001) after treatment. The mean central subfield macular thickness (CST) decreased from 425.2 ± 127.4 to 328.6 ± 99.4 μm (p < 0.001). The treatment response was significantly influenced by Age (p = 0.003) and baseline BCVA (p = 0.001). In addition, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (p = 0.013) and proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) (p = 0.019) were the prognostic factors for the visual outcome in the responders and non-responders, respectively. Moreover, baseline CST was the strongest predictor of anatomic outcome in all subjects (p < 0.001). Intravitreal ranibizumab for DME resulted in significant improvement in clinical outcomes. Younger age and better baseline BCVA were associated with better visual outcome after the treatment. In addition, glycemic control in the treatment of patients with DME is crucial to achieve better visual outcomes, especially in the responders to ranibizumab treatment.
Short amylin receptor antagonist peptides improve memory deficits in Alzheimer’s disease mouse model
Authors: Soudy Rania , Kimura Ryoichi , Patel Aarti , Fu Wen , Kaur Kamaljit , Westaway David , Yang Jing , Jhamandas Jack
Published: July 2019

Recent evidence supports involvement of amylin and the amylin receptor in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We have previously shown that amylin receptor antagonist, AC253, improves spatial memory in AD mouse models. Herein, we generated and screened a peptide library and identified two short sequence amylin peptides (12–14 aa) that are proteolytically stable, brain penetrant when administered intraperitoneally, neuroprotective against Aβ toxicity and restore diminished levels of hippocampal long term potentiation in AD mice. Systemic administration of the peptides for five weeks in aged 5XFAD mice improved spatial memory, reduced amyloid plaque burden, and neuroinflammation. The common residue SQELHRLQTY within the peptides is an essential sequence for preservation of the beneficial effects of the fragments that we report here and constitutes a new pharmacological target. These findings suggest that the amylin receptor antagonism may represent a novel therapy for AD.
Roles of matricellular CCN2 deposited by osteocytes in osteoclastogenesis and osteoblast differentiation
Authors: Nishida Takashi , Kubota Satoshi , Yokoi Hideki , Mukoyama Masashi , Takigawa Masaharu
Published: July 2019

In this study, we investigated the effect of CCN2 (cellular communication network factor 2), previously termed connective tissue growth factor, deposited in bone matrix on osteoclastogenesis and osteoblast differentiation. To mimic the bone matrix environment, osteocytic MLO-Y4 cells had been embedded in collagen-gel with recombinant CCN2 (rCCN2), and mouse macrophage-like RAW264.7 cells were inoculated on the gel and treated with receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL). NFATc1 and cathepsin K (CTSK) productions were more increased in the combination of RAW264.7 and MLO-Y4 cells treated with rCCN2 than the combination without rCCN2. Next, we isolated an osteocyte-enriched population of cells and osteoclast progenitor cells from wild type and tamoxifen-inducible Ccn2-deficient (KO) mice and performed similar analysis. NFATc1 and CTSK productions were decreased in the KO osteocyte-enriched population at 6 months after the tamoxifen injection, regardless of the origin of the osteoclast progenitor cells. Interestingly, CTSK production was rather increased in KO osteocytes at 1 year after the injection. Finally, the combination of osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 and MLO-Y4 cells in rCCN2-containing bone matrix revealed the up-regulation of osteoblastic marker genes. These findings suggest that CCN2 supplied by osteocytes regulates both osteoclastogenesis and osteoblast differentiation.
Three decades of heat stress exposure in Caribbean coral reefs: a new regional delineation to enhance conservation
Authors: Muñiz-Castillo Aarón Israel , Rivera-Sosa Andrea , Chollett Iliana , Eakin C. Mark , Andrade-Gómez Luisa , McField Melanie , Arias-González Jesús Ernesto
Published: July 2019

Increasing heat stress due to global climate change is causing coral reef decline, and the Caribbean has been one of the most vulnerable regions. Here, we assessed three decades (1985–2017) of heat stress exposure in the wider Caribbean at ecoregional and local scales using remote sensing. We found a high spatial and temporal variability of heat stress, emphasizing an observed increase in heat exposure over time in most ecoregions, especially from 2003 identified as a temporal change point in heat stress. A spatiotemporal analysis classified the Caribbean into eight heat-stress regions offering a new regionalization scheme based on historical heat exposure patterns. The temporal analysis confirmed the years 1998, 2005, 2010–2011, 2015 and 2017 as severe and widespread Caribbean heat-stress events and recognized a change point in 2002–2004, after which heat exposure has been frequent in most subsequent years. Major heat-stress events may be associated with El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO), but we highlight the relevance of the long-term increase in heat exposure in most ecoregions and in all ENSO phases. This work produced a new baseline and regionalization of heat stress in the basin that will enhance conservation and planning efforts underway.