bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Particle-In-Cell Modeling of CubeSat Interaction with Ionospheric Plasma
Authors: Imtiaz Nadia , Marchand Richard
Published: July 2018

We numerically investigate the interaction between a nanosatllite CubeSat and surrounding plasma. The present study aims to elucidate particular issues related to nanosatllite-plasma interaction which affects the on-board instruments by using particle-in-cell simulations. The numerical results of the present study demonstrate the importance of several key physical processes in nanosatellites-plasma interaction. In particular, it is shown that plasma flow, ion composition, and the geomagnetic field have a strong impact on the Langmuir probes.
The Role of Empirical Space-Weather Models (in a World of Physics-Based Numerical Simulations)
Authors: Owens Mathew J. , Riley Pete , Horbury Tim
Published: July 2018

Advanced forecasting of space weather requires prediction of near-Earth solar-wind conditions on the basis of remote solar observations. This is typically achieved using numerical magnetohydrodynamic models initiated by photospheric magnetic field observations. The accuracy of such forecasts is being continually improved through better numerics, better determination of the boundary conditions and better representation of the underlying physical processes. Thus it is not unreasonable to conclude that simple, empirical solar-wind forecasts have been rendered obsolete. However, empirical models arguably have more to contribute now than ever before. In addition to providing quick, cheap, independent forecasts, simple empirical models aid in numerical model validation and verification, and add value to numerical model forecasts through parameterization, uncertainty estimation and ‘downscaling’ of sub-grid processes.
Possible Influence of the Solar Eclipse on the Global Geomagnetic Field
Authors: Kim Jung-Hee , Chang Heon-Young
Published: July 2018

We investigate the geomagnetic field variations recorded by INTERMAGNET geomagnetic observatories. We confirm that the effect of solar eclipse can be seen over an interval of 180 minutes centered at the time of maximum eclipse on a site of a geomagnetic observatory. It is found that the effect of the solar eclipse on the geomagnetic field becomes conspicuous as the magnitude of a solar eclipse becomes larger. The effect of solar eclipses is more evident in the second half of the path of Moon’s shadow. We also find that the effect can be overwhelmed, more sensitively by geomagnetic disturbances than by solar activity of solar cycle.
About Factors of Solar Radiation Affecting the Ionosphere
Authors: Rakhlin Aleksander V. , Sheiner Olga A. , Vybornov Feodor I. , Pershin Aleksander V.
Published: July 2018

In this report we present an attempt to find a characteristic set of the space weather parameters allowed to identify the dominant physical connections. This study is based on the data of vertical and oblique sounding of the ionosphere in 2015-2016.
Sandpile Models and Solar Flares: Eigenfunction Decomposition for Data Assimilation
Authors: Strugarek Antoine , Brun Allan S. , Charbonneau Paul , Vilmer Nicole
Published: July 2018

The largest solar flares, of class X and above, are often associated with strong energetic particle acceleration. Based on the self-similar distribution of solar flares, self-organized criticality models such as sandpiles can be used to successfully reproduce their statistics. However, predicting strong (and rare) solar flares turns out to be a significant challenge. We build here on an original idea based on the combination of minimalistic flare models (sandpiles) and modern data assimilation techniques (4DVar) to predict large solar flares. We discuss how to represent a sandpile model over a reduced set of eigenfunctions to improve the efficiency of the data assimilation technique. This improvement is model-independent and continues to pave the way towards efficient near real-time solutions for predicting solar flares.
The HelMod Monte Carlo Model for the Propagation of Cosmic Rays in Heliosphere
Authors: Boschini Matteo J. , Della Torre Stefano , Gervasi Massimo , Grandi Davide , La Vacca Giuseppe , Pensotti Simonetta , Rancoita Pier Giorgio , Rozza Davide , Tacconi Mauro
Published: July 2018

The heliospheric modulation model HelMod solves the transport-equation for Galactic Cosmic Ray propagation through the heliosphere down to Earth. It is based on a 2-D Monte Carlo approach that includes a general description of the symmetric and antisymmetric parts of the diffusion tensor, thus properly treating the particle drift effects as well as convection within the solar wind and adiabatic energy loss. The model was tuned in order to fit 1) the data observed outside the ecliptic plane at several distances from the Earth and 2) the spectra observed near the Earth for both, high and low solar activity periods. Great importance was given to description of polar regions of the heliosphere. We present the flux for protons, antiprotons and helium nuclei computed for solar cycle 23-24 in comparison with experimental observations and prediction for the full solar cycle 24.
Magnetic Activity Discrepancies of Solar-Type Stars Revealed byKeplerLight Curves
Authors: He Han , Wang Huaning , Yan Yan , Yun Duo
Published: July 2018

Magnetic activity information is concealed in the shape of stellar light curves owing to the process of rotational modulation. We developed approaches to extract magnetic activity characteristics from stellar light curves, and applied the method to a solar-type star observed withKeplerspace telescope and also to the Sun for comparison. The result reveals distinct magnetic activity discrepancies between the solar-type star and the Sun. (1) The light-curve periodicity of the solar-type star is generally stronger than that of the Sun. (2) For the solar-type star, when the range of light-curve fluctuation is larger, the periodicity is also higher; while for the Sun, only during the solar minima with minimal range of fluctuation, the light curves show some periodicity. We propose that on the solar-type star, it is the large-scale magnetic field that leads to the light curves with both high periodicity and large range of fluctuation.
Temperature of Source Regions of 3He-Rich Impulsive Solar Energetic Particle Events
Authors: Chen N.-H. , Bučík R. , Kim R.-S.
Published: July 2018

Impulsive solar energetic particle (SEP) events originate from the energy dissipation process in small solar flares. Anomalous abundances in impulsive SEP events provide an evidence on unique, yet unclear, acceleration mechanism. The pattern of heavy-ion enhancements indicates that the temperature of the source plasma that is accelerated is low and not flare-like. We examine the solar source of the 3He-rich SEP event of 2012 November 20 using Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO)/ Atmospheric Imaging Assembly (AIA) images and investigate its thermal variation. The examined event is associated with recurrent coronal jets. The Differential Emission Measure (DEM) analysis is applied to study the temperature evolution/distribution of the source regions. Preliminary results show that the temperature of the associated solar source is ranged between 1.2-3.1 MK.
Variation of Quiet Sun Radiation during Solar Cycles 23 and 24
Authors: Aroori Mahender , Yellaiah G. , Reddy K. Chenna
Published: July 2018

Radio observations play a very important role in understanding the structure of the solar atmosphere. In this paper the quiet sun component of the solar radio emission has been investigated using data obtained from the Solar Indices Bulletin, National Geophysical Data Centre. By statistical method, the quiet sun component is estimated for 84 successive basic periods containing three solar rotations each using data obtained at different frequencies. From the quiet sun component we estimate the brightness temperature in each observing frequency.
Gamma-Ray Solar Flares and In Situ Particle Acceleration
Authors: Struminsky Alexei
Published: July 2018

At present two concurrent paradigms of solar energetic particle (SEP) origin exist: acceleration directly in the flare site or by the shock wave of coronal mass ejection (CME). Active discussions on a relative role of flares and coronal mass ejections for SEP acceleration and propagation are continuous until now. In my opinion only future observations of solar high energy γ–emission with better spectral, spatial and temporal resolution may clarify this issue. In my report I discuss possible signatures of the flare and shock acceleration processes. What is a picture provided by the current instruments? What can we expect to observe with a perfect instrument in high energy gamma rays in one or another case on a time scale of impulsive and long decay flare phases?
Reconstruction of the Filament Properties, Based on Centenarian Daily Observations of the Sun in Hα Line
Authors: Tlatova Kseniya A. , Vasil’eva Valeriya , Tlatov Andrey
Published: July 2018

Preliminary results of distinguishing solar filaments on daily observation data at the Hα spectral line of the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory (1912-2002) are presented.

To distinguish the boundaries of solar filaments, methods have been developed, based on automatic procedures for distinguishing low-contrast objects on the solar disk as well as on editing the boundaries of selected structures in semi-automatic mode. An analysis of solar filaments’ characteristics has been performed. We are considered variation of the average tilt-angle and the radius of curvature of the filaments in 15-23 cycles of activity.
The Inner Coronagraph on Board ADITYA-L1 and Automatic Detection of CMEs
Authors: Banerjee D. , Patel R. , Pant V. ,   ADITYA team
Published: July 2018

Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC) on board ADITYA-L1 is an internally occulted coronagraph with mirror as its primary objective element. It has a field of view (FOV) starting from 1.05 R⊙– 3 R⊙. It will observe the corona in continuum centered at 5000 Å and will perform spectroscopic observations of inner corona in two visible (5303 Å and 7892 Å) and one infrared (10747 Å) wavelengths. VELC will be capable of observingthecorona with high spatial and temporal resolutions. We present an overview of the inner coronagraph (VELC) design and introduce the concept of an on-board automated coronal mass ejections (CMEs) detection logic proposed for this payload.
Hard X-Ray Emission of Solar Flares Measured by Lomonosov Space Mission
Authors: Myagkova Irina N. , Bogomolov Andrey V. , Bogomolov Vitaly V. , Svertilov Sergey I. , Bobrovnikov Sergey Yu. , Yashin Ivan V. , Panasyuk Mikhail I. , Kalegaev Vladimir V. , Petrov Vasily L. , Shishkova Svetlana S.
Published: July 2018

Solar hard X-ray and gamma-ray emission was measured by BDRG instrument, the part of set of instruments operated on board the Russian satellite Lomonosov from April 2016 until now (solar-synchronous orbit with altitude 490 km, inclination of 97.6 degrees). Lomonosov measurements (11 flares with the X-ray energy more than 10 keV, and more than half of them have class in soft X-rays less than C2) were compared to the data obtained by RHESSI and Fermi space observatories as well as the Nobeyama Radioheliograph operating at the same time. The quasi-periodicity with different periods were found in some of them.
Defining and Characterising Heliospheric Weather and Climate
Authors: Messerotti Mauro
Published: July 2018

At large distance scales, space exploration in the last decades has significantly helped in better locating the boundaries of the Heliosphere and outlining its shape as well as in probing the various plasma domains that separate the inner heliospheric region from the interstellar one. At shorter distance scales, a fleet of spacecraft has been probing the outer and inner Solar System plasma with a high level of detail.

This monitoring, complemented by space- and ground-based observations of processes relevant to the Heliosphere, has pointed out a series both of intrinsic and extrinsic perturbations that characterise the physical state of heliospheric plasmas both at small and large spatial scales and on short and long temporal scales.

By means of concept maps that schematise the association among concepts, in this work we will present a new domain ontology for the definition and characterisation of Heliospheric Weather and Climate.
On the Dynamics of the Largest Active Region of the Solar Cycle 24
Authors: Sarkar Ranadeep , Srivastava Nandita , Dhara Sajal Kumar
Published: July 2018

We have studied the dynamics of the solar active region (AR) NOAA 12192 using full-disc continuum images and the vector magnetograms observed by the Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager (HMI) onboard Solar Dynamics Observatory (SDO). AR 12192 is the largest region of the solar cycle 24. It underwent a noticeable growth and produced 6 X-class, 22 M-class and 53 C-class flares during its disc passage. But the most peculiar fact of this AR is that it was associated with only one CME in spite of producing several X-class flares. In this work, we present the area evolution of this giant sunspot group during the first three rotations when it appeared as AR 12172, AR 12192 and AR 12209, respectively. We have also attempted to make a comparative study of the flare-related photospheric magnetic field and Lorentz force changes for both the eruptive and non-eruptive flares produced by AR 12192.
Thermospheric Dynamics in Quiet and Disturbed Conditions
Authors: Bounhir Aziza , Benkhaldoun Zouhair , Makela Jonathan J. , Kaab Mohamed , Harding Brian , Fisher Daniel J. , Lagheryeb Amine , Khalifa Malki , Elbouyahyaoui Khaoula , Lazrek Mohamed , Daassou Ahmed
Published: July 2018

This paper presents the thermospheric winds and temperature properties measured with a Fabry-Pérot interferometer (FPI) over Oukaimeden observatory (31.2°N, 7.8°W, 22.8°Nmagnetic) in Morocco. After Three years of successful functioning from 2014 to 2017, we can address the seasonal behavior of the temperature and the winds (vertical, zonal and meridional). The dependence of the thermospheric winds and temperature on the solar cycle is also presented. The day-to-day variations of the quiet time wind pattern exhibits the importance of other type of waves superposed to the main diurnal tides. The storm time wind and temperature exhibits also a variety of ways to react to the storm. However, there is seasonal effect to the storm that will be illustrated in this paper. The signature of the MTM phenomenon is also present in the winds and temperature in geomagnetically quiet and disturbed nights. The occurrence of this phenomenon over the studied area is also addressed.
Comparison and Time Evolution of the Geomagnetic Cutoff at the ISS Position: Internal vs External Earth’s Magnetic Field Models
Authors: Boschini Matteo J. , Della Torre Stefano , Gervasi Massimo , Grandi Davide , La Vacca Giuseppe , Pensotti Simonetta , Rancoita Pier Giorgio , Rozza Davide , Tacconi Mauro
Published: July 2018

Our back-tracing code (GeoMagSphere) reconstructs the cosmic ray trajectories inside the Earth’s magnetosphere. GeoMagSphere gets the incoming directions of particles entering the magnetopause and disentangles primary from secondary particles (produced in atmosphere) or even particles trapped inside the Earth’s magnetic field. The separation of these particle families allows us to evaluate the geomagnetic rigidity cutoff. The model can be used considering the internal symmetric (IGRF-12) magnetic field only, or adding the asymmetric external one (Tsyganenko models: T89, T96 or TS05). A quantitative comparison among these models is presented for quiet (solar pressure Pdyn < 4 nPa) and disturbed (Pdyn > 4 nPa) periods of solar activity, as well as during solar events like flares, CMEs. In this analysis we focused our attention on magnetic field data in magnetosphere, from Cluster, and simulated cosmic rays for a generic detector on the ISS as for example AMS-02. We found that high solar activity periods, like a large fraction of the period covering years 2011-2015, are better described using IGRF+TS05 model. Results, i.e. the average vertical rigidity cutoff at the ISS orbit, are shown in geographic maps of 2° × 2° cells.
The Aging Solar Wind: a Break in Wind Evolution at Older Ages?
Authors: Fionnagáin Dúalta Ó , Vidotto Aline A.
Published: July 2018

The current solar wind is well studied from remote observations and in situ measurements. However, we have very little information of the solar wind as it has evolved. We investigate the evolution of the solar wind by modeling the winds of solar analogues. By using X-ray temperatures as proxies for wind temperatures, we find that a break in behaviour occurs. At 2 Gyr there is a sharp decline in coronal temperatures, which results in a steep decay in mass loss rates for older stars. As the wind is responsible for stellar spin down, through angular momentum loss due to magnetised winds, our results suggest a decline in angular momentum loss for older stars. This agrees with recent observations which find anomalously high rotation rates in older stars. We also find that this evolution in the wind has adverse effects on the Earth’s magnetosphere, with an Earth aged 100 Myr having a magnetosphere 3 Earth radii in size.
Principal Component Analysis of Geomagnetic Activity: New Information on Solar Wind
Authors: Mursula Kalevi , Holappa Lauri
Published: July 2018

We use the principal component analysis to study geomagnetic activity at annual resolution using a network of 26 magnetic stations in 1966-2015, and an extended network of 40 stations in 1980-2015. The first principal component describes the long-term evolution of global geomagnetic activity, and has an excellent correlation with indices like the Kp/Ap index. The two networks give identical results for the first principal component. The second principal component is highly correlated with the annual percentage of high-speed streams (HSS). The extended network has a slightly higher sensitivity to HSSs. We verify the non-trivial latitudinal distribution of the second empirical orthogonal function. We find that the amplitude of the 22-year variation of geomagnetic activity has a closely similar latitudinal distribution as the second empirical orthogonal function. This verifies that the 22-year variation of geomagnetic activity is related to HSSs. The most likely cause is the Russell-McPherron mechanism.
The Mexican Early Warning System for Space Weather
Authors: De la Luz V. , González-Esparza J. A. , Sergeeva M. , Corona-Romero P. , Mejía-Ambriz J. , González L. X.
Published: July 2018

Early Warning of Space Weather phenomena is one of the most important products produced by Mexican Space Weather Service (SCiESMEX). The aim is to deliver a verified warning to Mexican National Center for Disaster Prevention (CENAPRED) as well as to general public in near-real time automatically. First, the international pubic warning (or alert) is produced by Space Weather Prediction Center of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S.A. Further, the alert is received by SCiESMEX system, decodified, translated in Spanish and put in the context of local current conditions. The alerts are transformed and validated in agreement to Mexican policies of civil protection and CENAPRED protocols. The automatic system segments the information and delivers the corresponding web- page-alerts, emails, twits, facebook messages and SMS. The latency of the alert is 5 minutes. The code is running since January of 2015 without major interruptions.
Monitor and Prediction of Near-Earth Radiation Environment in the Frame of Space Monitoring Data Center at Moscow State University
Authors: Myagkova Irina N. , Kalegaev Vladimir V. , Panasyuk Mikhail I. , Shugai Yuliya S. , Dolenko Sergey A. , Bobrovnikov Sergey Yu. , Barinova Vera O. , Nguyen Minh Duc , Shiroky Vladimir R. , Eremeev Valery E. , Bogomolov Andrey V. , Barinov Oleg G. , Vlasova Natalia A. , Kusnetsov Nikolay V.
Published: July 2018

Radiation environment of near-Earth space is one of the most important factors of space weather. Space Monitoring Data Center of Moscow State University provides operational monitor and forecast of radiation conditions both at Geostationary Orbits (GEO) and at Low Earths Orbits (LEO) of the near-Earth space using data of recent space missions (Vernov, CORONAS series) and current (Lomonosov, Meteor-M, Electro-L) ones. Internet portal of Space Monitoring Data Center of Skobeltsyn Institute of Nuclear Physics of Lomonosov Moscow State University (SINP MSU - [swx.sinp.msu.ru]) provides possibilities to monitor and analyze the space radiation conditions in the real time mode together with the geomagnetic and solar activity including hard X-ray and gamma-emission of solar flares.
CCMC Modeling of Magnetic Reconnection in Electron Diffusion Region Events
Authors: Reiff Patricia H. , Webster James M. , Daou Antoun G. , Marshall Andrew , Sazykin Stanislav Y. , Rastaetter Lutz , Welling Daniel T. , DeZeeuw Darren , Kuznetsova Maria M. , Glocer Alex , Russell Christopher T.
Published: July 2018

We use numerical simulations from the Community Coordinated Modeling Center to provide, for the first time, a coherent temporal description of the magnetic reconnection process of two dayside Electron Diffusion Regions (EDRs) identified in Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission data. The model places the MMS spacecraft near the separator line in these most intense and long-lived events. A listing of 31 dayside EDRs identified by the authors is provided to encourage collaboration in analysis of these unique encounters.
Simulating the Dynamics of Coronal Plasma Condensations
Authors: Kohutova Petra , Verwichte Erwin
Published: July 2018

We present numerical MHD simulations of the dynamics of cool plasma condensations in a coronal loop. We address 2 mechanisms for how coronal rain leads to the excitation of coronal loop oscillations. We find that the combined effect of pressure gradients in the coronal loop plasma and magnetic tension force resulting from changes in magnetic field geometry explains observed sub-ballistic motion of coronal rain and longitudinal oscillations of the individual condensations. We also find that the condensations can excite sustained, small amplitude, vertically polarised transverse loop oscillations.
How does the Sun Influence the Magnetospheres of Jupiter and Saturn?
Authors: Jackman Caitríona M. , Arridge Christopher S.
Published: July 2018

Spacecraft have visited Jupiter and Saturn at all phases of the solar cycle and thus we have a wealth of data with which to explore both upstream parameters and magnetospheric response. In this paper we review upstream parameters including interplanetary magnetic field strength and direction, solar wind dynamic pressure, plasma beta and Mach number. We consider the impact of changing solar wind on dayside coupling via reconnection. We also comment on how solar UV flux variability over a solar cycle influences the plasma and neutral tori in the inner magnetospheres of Jupiter and Saturn, and thus estimate the solar cycle effects on internally driven magnetospheric dynamics. Finally we place our results in the context of the now complete set of data from the Cassini mission at Saturn and the current data streaming in from Juno at Jupiter, outlining future avenues for research.
The Ionosphere Prediction Service
Authors: Albanese Carlo , Rodriguez Filippo , Ronchini Roberto , Di Rollo Stefano , Berrilli Francesco , Cristaldi Alice , Del Moro Dario , Forte Roberta , De Franceschi Giorgiana , Cesaroni Claudio , Spogli Luca , Romano Vincenzo , Aquino Marcio , Veettil Sreeja Vadakke , Kalden Osman , Hutchinson Michael , Guyader Eric
Published: July 2018

The aim of the Ionosphere Prediction Service (IPS) project is to design and develop a prototype platform to translate the prediction and forecast of the ionosphere effects into a service customized for specific GNSS user communities. The project team is composed by Telespazio (coordinator), Nottingham Scientific Ltd, Telespazio Vega Deutschland, the University of Nottingham, the University of Rome “Tor Vergata” and the Italian Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV). The IPS development is conceived of two concurrent activities: prototype service design and development & research activity that will run along the whole project. Service design and development is conceived into four phases: user requirements collection, architecture specification, implementation and validation of the prototype. A sub-activity analyses also the integration feasibility in the Galileo Service center, located in Madrid. The research activity is the scientific backbone of IPS that will provide the models and algorithms for the forecasting products.
Re-Acceleration of Energetic Particles in Large-Scale Heliospheric Magnetic Cavities
Authors: Khabarova Olga V. , Malandraki Olga E. , Zank Gary P. , Li Gang , le Roux Jakobus A. , Webb Gary M.
Published: July 2018

Case studies show that some energetic particle flux enhancements up to MeV/nuc. observed at 1 AU cannot be treated as a consequence of particle acceleration at shocks or during flares. Atypical energetic particle events (AEPEs) are often detected during crossings of magnetic cavities formed by strong current sheets of various origins in the solar wind. Such cavities confine small-scale magnetic islands (SMIs) produced by magnetic reconnection. SMIs, in turn, trap and re-accelerate energetic particles according to predictions based on the theory of Zanket al.describing stochastic particle energization in the supersonic solar wind via numerous dynamically interacting SMIs. AEPEs possess energies that overlap SEP events and can be an important component in understanding space weather.
A Behavioural Model of the Solar Magnetic Cycle
Authors: Munroe Milton
Published: July 2018

All recent models of solar magnetic cycle behaviour assume that the Ω-effect stretches an existing poloidal magnetic field into a toroidal field using differential rotation (Featherstone and Miesch 2015). The α-effect recycles the toroidal field back to a poloidal field by convection and rotation and this is repeated throughout the cycle. Computer simulations based on that conceptual model still leave many questions unanswered. It has not resolved where the solar dynamo is located, what it is or what causes the differential rotation which it takes for granted. Does this paradigm need changing? The conceptual model presented here examines the sun in horizontal sections, analyses its internal structure, presents new characterizations for the solar wind and structures found and shows how their interaction creates rotation, differential rotation, the solar dynamo and the magnetic cycle.
The Space Weather through a Multidisciplinary Scientific Approach
Authors: Benkhaldoun Zouhair , Khalifa Malki , Bounhir Aziza , Vilmer Nicole , El bouyahyaoui Khaoula , Kaab Mohamed , Lagheryeb Amine , Daassou Ahmed
Published: July 2018

Space weather encompasses understanding how the near-space environment responds to forces from lower-atmosphere weather systems as well as conditions on the Sun. Although the specific effects of space weather (including power grid failures, communication outages, and navigation errors when using space-based navigation systems such as GPS) are local in nature, understanding and predicting their occurrence requires a global view of the environment. Here we initiated a first attempt to link one solar event which occurred on 2014 February 25, and affected the Earth’s upper atmosphere.
TRIANGULATING NON-ARCHIMEDEAN PROBABILITY
Authors: BRICKHILL HAZEL , HORSTEN LEON
Published: July 2018

We relate Popper functions to regular and perfectly additive such non-Archimedean probability functions by means of a representation theorem: every such non-Archimedean probability function is infinitesimally close to some Popper function, and vice versa. We also show that regular and perfectly additive non-Archimedean probability functions can be given a lexicographic representation. Thus Popper functions, a specific kind of non-Archimedean probability functions, and lexicographic probability functions triangulate to the same place: they are in a good sense interchangeable.
Impression-Motivated News Consumption
Authors: Winter Stephan
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Social networking sites (SNS) such as Facebook are increasingly used as sources of news. The present research aimed to investigate whether this new media context affects the way in which readers process news articles and form their opinions on current debates. In an application of the heuristic-systematic model of persuasion, it was assumed that the high salience of self-presentation and interpersonal contacts in social media triggers an impression-motivated mode of reasoning in which readers base their attitudes more strongly on the majority opinion and social pressures. In a pre-registered laboratory experiment ( N = 210) in which participants read a news article, the media context (SNS vs. SNS with anticipation of future interaction vs. online news site) and the valence of the displayed user comments (positive vs. negative) were varied as between-subject factors. It was hypothesized that user comments are more influential when being logged in to Facebook than on classic online news sites, particularly when expecting future opinion expression about the topic and among people with a strong self-monitoring tendency. Results showed significant effects of comment valence on readers’ attitudes and valence of thoughts, however, this pattern also occurred in the setting of online news sites and was not moderated by self-monitoring. Findings are discussed with regard to the theoretical predictions of the heuristic-systematic model on following the majority opinion and practical implications for an informed citizenry.
On the Origin of Infragravity Waves
Authors: Cook Terri
Published: July 2018

Seafloor pressure sensor data show that long-period ocean surface waves radiating from the world’s shorelines are mostly reflected back to shore by the continental shelf edge.
Quantitative stable isotope probing with H2 18O reveals that most bacterial taxa in soil synthesize new ribosomal RNA
Authors: Papp Katerina , Mau Rebecca L , Hayer Michaela , Koch Benjamin J , Hungate Bruce A , Schwartz Egbert
Published: July 2018

Most soil bacterial taxa are thought to be dormant, or inactive, yet the extent to which they synthetize new rRNA is poorly understood. We analyzed 18O composition of RNA extracted from soil incubated with H2  18O and used quantitative stable isotope probing to characterize rRNA synthesis among microbial taxa. RNA was not fully labeled with 18O, peaking at a mean of 23.6 ± 6.8 atom percent excess (APE) 18O after eight days of incubation, suggesting some ribonucleotides in soil were more than eight days old. Microbial taxa varied in the degree they incorporated 18O into their rRNA over time and there was no correlation between the APE  18O of bacterial rRNA and their rRNA to DNA ratios, suggesting that the ratios were not appropriate to measure ribonucleotide synthesis. Our study indicates that, on average, 94% of soil taxa produced new rRNA and therefore were metabolically active.
LncRNA MIR100HG promotes cell proliferation in triple-negative breast cancer through triplex formation with p27 loci
Authors: Wang Shaowei , Ke Hao , Zhang Honglei , Ma Yujie , Ao Lei , Zou Li , Yang Qin , Zhu Hao , Nie Jianyun , Wu Chunlian , Jiao Baowei
Published: July 2018

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) exhibits poor prognosis, with high metastasis and low survival. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play critical roles in tumor progression. Here, we identified lncRNA MIR100HG as a pro-oncogene for TNBC progression. Knockdown of MIR100HG decreased cell proliferation and induced cell arrest in the G1 phase, whereas overexpression of MIR100HG significantly increased cell proliferation. Furthermore, MIR100HG regulated the p27 gene to control the cell cycle, and subsequently impacted the progression of TNBC. In analyzing its underlying mechanism, bioinformatics prediction and experimental data demonstrated that MIR100HG participated in the formation of RNA–DNA triplex structures. MIR100HG in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and breast cancer cell lines showed higher expression in TNBC than in other tumor types with poor prognosis. In conclusion, our data indicated a novel working pattern of lncRNA in TNBC progression, which may be a potential therapeutic target in such cancers.
Multiethnic meta-analysis identifies ancestry-specific and cross-ancestry loci for pulmonary function
Authors: Wyss Annah B. , Sofer Tamar , Lee Mi Kyeong , Terzikhan Natalie , Nguyen Jennifer N. , Lahousse Lies , Latourelle Jeanne C. , Smith Albert Vernon , Bartz Traci M. , Feitosa Mary F. , Gao Wei , Ahluwalia Tarunveer S. , Tang Wenbo , Oldmeadow Christopher , Duan Qing , de Jong Kim , Wojczynski Mary K. , Wang Xin-Qun , Noordam Raymond , Hartwig Fernando Pires , Jackson Victoria E. , Wang Tianyuan , Obeidat Ma’en , Hobbs Brian D. , Huan Tianxiao , Gui Hongsheng , Parker Margaret M. , Hu Donglei , Mogil Lauren S. , Kichaev Gleb , Jin Jianping , Graff Mariaelisa , Harris Tamara B. , Kalhan Ravi , Heckbert Susan R. , Paternoster Lavinia , Burkart Kristin M. , Liu Yongmei , Holliday Elizabeth G. , Wilson James G. , Vonk Judith M. , Sanders Jason L. , Barr R. Graham , de Mutsert Renée , Menezes Ana Maria Baptista , Adams Hieab H. H. , van den Berge Maarten , Joehanes Roby , Levin Albert M. , Liberto Jennifer , Launer Lenore J. , Morrison Alanna C. , Sitlani Colleen M. , Celedón Juan C. , Kritchevsky Stephen B. , Scott Rodney J. , Christensen Kaare , Rotter Jerome I. , Bonten Tobias N. , Wehrmeister Fernando César , Bossé Yohan , Xiao Shujie , Oh Sam , Franceschini Nora , Brody Jennifer A. , Kaplan Robert C. , Lohman Kurt , McEvoy Mark , Province Michael A. , Rosendaal Frits R. , Taylor Kent D. , Nickle David C. , Williams L. Keoki , Burchard Esteban G. , Wheeler Heather E. , Sin Don D. , Gudnason Vilmundur , North Kari E. , Fornage Myriam , Psaty Bruce M. , Myers Richard H. , O’Connor George , Hansen Torben , Laurie Cathy C. , Cassano Patricia A. , Sung Joohon , Kim Woo Jin , Attia John R. , Lange Leslie , Boezen H. Marike , Thyagarajan Bharat , Rich Stephen S. , Mook-Kanamori Dennis O. , Horta Bernardo Lessa , Uitterlinden André G. , Im Hae Kyung , Cho Michael H. , Brusselle Guy G. , Gharib Sina A. , Dupuis Josée , Manichaikul Ani , London Stephanie J.
Published: July 2018

Nearly 100 loci have been identified for pulmonary function, almost exclusively in studies of European ancestry populations. We extend previous research by meta-analyzing genome-wide association studies of 1000 Genomes imputed variants in relation to pulmonary function in a multiethnic population of 90,715 individuals of European (N = 60,552), African (N = 8429), Asian (N = 9959), and Hispanic/Latino (N = 11,775) ethnicities. We identify over 50 additional loci at genome-wide significance in ancestry-specific or multiethnic meta-analyses. Using recent fine-mapping methods incorporating functional annotation, gene expression, and differences in linkage disequilibrium between ethnicities, we further shed light on potential causal variants and genes at known and newly identified loci. Several of the novel genes encode proteins with predicted or established drug targets, including KCNK2 and CDK12. Our study highlights the utility of multiethnic and integrative genomics approaches to extend existing knowledge of the genetics of lung function and clinical relevance of implicated loci.
Enhanced immunocompatibility of ligand-targeted liposomes by attenuating natural IgM absorption
Authors: Guan Juan , Shen Qing , Zhang Zui , Jiang Zhuxuan , Yang Yang , Lou Meiqing , Qian Jun , Lu Weiyue , Zhan Changyou
Published: July 2018

Targeting ligands are anticipated to facilitate the precise delivery of therapeutic agents to diseased tissues; however, they may also severely affect the interaction of nanocarriers with plasma proteins. Here, we study the immunocompatibility of brain-targeted liposomes, which inversely correlates with absorbed natural IgM. Modification of long, stable positively charged peptide ligands on liposomes is inclined to absorb natural IgM, leading to rapid clearance and enhanced immunogenicity. Small peptidomimetic D8 developed by computer-aided peptide design exhibits improved immunocompatibility by attenuating natural IgM absorption. The present study highlights the effects of peptide ligands on the formed protein corona and in vivo fate of liposomes. Stable positively charged peptide ligands play double-edged roles in targeted delivery, preserving in vivo bioactivities for binding receptors and long-term unfavorable interactions with the innate immune system. The development of D8 provides insights into how to rationally design immunocompatible drug delivery systems by modulating the protein corona composition.
Sanitation of blackwater via sequential wetland and electrochemical treatment
Authors: Talekar Guruprasad V. , Sharma Priya , Yadav Anant , Clauwaert Peter , Rabaey Korneel , Mutnuri Srikanth
Published: July 2018

The discharge of untreated septage is a major health hazard in countries that lack sewer systems and centralized sewage treatment. Small-scale, point-source treatment units are needed for water treatment and disinfection due to the distributed nature of this discharge, i.e., from single households or community toilets. In this study, a high-rate-wetland coupled with an electrochemical system was developed and demonstrated to treat septage at full scale. The full-scale wetland on average removed 79 ± 2% chemical oxygen demand (COD), 30 ± 5% total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), 58 ± 4% total ammoniacal nitrogen (TAN), and 78 ± 4% ortho-phosphate. Pathogens such as coliforms were not fully removed after passage through the wetland. Therefore, the wetland effluent was subsequently treated with an electrochemical cell with a cation exchange membrane where the effluent first passed through the anodic chamber. This lead to in situ chlorine or other oxidant production under acidifying conditions. Upon a residence time of at least 6 h of this anodic effluent in a buffer tank, the fluid was sent through the cathodic chamber where pH neutralization occurred. Overall, the combined system removed 89 ± 1% COD, 36 ± 5% TKN, 70 ± 2% TAN, and 87 ± 2% ortho-phosphate. An average 5-log unit reduction in coliform was observed. The energy input for the integrated system was on average 16 ± 3 kWh/m3, and 11 kWh/m3under optimal conditions. Further research is required to optimize the system in terms of stability and energy consumption.
Inhibition of glycosphingolipid synthesis reverses skin inflammation and hair loss in ApoE−/− mice fed western diet
Authors: Bedja Djahida , Yan Wenwen , Lad Viren , Iocco Domenica , Sivakumar Nickash , Bandaru Veera Venkata Ratnam , Chatterjee Subroto
Published: July 2018

Sphingolipids have been accorded numerous biological functions however, the effects of feeding a western diet (diet rich in cholesterol and fat) on skin phenotypes, and color is not known. Here, we observed that chronic high-fat and high-cholesterol diet intake in a mouse model of atherosclerosis (ApoE−/−) decreases the level of ceramides and glucosylceramide. At the expense of increased levels of lactosylceramide due to an increase in the expression of lactosylceramide synthase (GalT-V). This is accompanied with neutrophil infiltration into dermis, and enrichment of tumor necrosis factor-stimulated gene-6 (TSG-6) protein. This causes skin inflammation, hair discoloration and loss, in ApoE−/− mice. Conversely, inhibition of glycosphingolipid synthesis, by D-threo-1-phenyl-2-decanoylamino-3-morpholino-1-propanol (D-PDMP), unbound or encapsulated in a biodegradable polymer (BPD) reversed these phenotypes. Thus, inhibition of glycosphingolipid synthesis represents a unique therapeutic approach relevant to human skin and hair Biology.
Efficiency of generic and proprietary inhibitors in mitigating Corrosion of Carbon Steel in Chloride-Sulfate Environments
Authors: Al-Sodani Khaled A. Alawi , Maslehuddin Mohammed , Al-Amoudi Omar S. Baghabra , Saleh Tawfik A. , Shameem Mohammed
Published: July 2018

The efficiency of generic and proprietary corrosion inhibitors (based on nitrite, amine carboxylate or amino alcohol) in corrosion mitigation of carbon steel, which is exposed to concrete solutions with different amounts of chloride as well as sulfate, was studied. The corrosion protection provided by the selected corrosion inhibitors was investigated by performing a potentiodynamic polarization study. In addition, the surface morphological properties of carbon steel samples exposed to the electrolyte mixed with or without inhibitors was also evaluated by scanning electron microscopy. The potentiodynamic polarization measurements showed that the evaluated inhibitors decreased the corrosion current density by 1.6 to 6.7 times depending on the type of inhibitor and the level of sulfate concentration in the electrolyte. The performance of inhibitors based on nitrite was better than that of inhibitors based on amine carboxylate or amino alcohol. The possible mechanisms of the inhibition in the chloride plus sulfate environments are also elucidated.
Genetic regulation of disease risk and endometrial gene expression highlights potential target genes for endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome
Authors: Fung Jenny N. , Mortlock Sally , Girling Jane E. , Holdsworth-Carson Sarah J. , Teh Wan Tinn , Zhu Zhihong , Lukowski Samuel W. , McKinnon Brett D. , McRae Allan , Yang Jian , Healey Martin , Powell Joseph E. , Rogers Peter A. W. , Montgomery Grant W.
Published: July 2018

Gene expression varies markedly across the menstrual cycle and expression levels for many genes are under genetic control. We analyzed gene expression and mapped expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) in endometrial tissue samples from 229 women and then analyzed the overlap of endometrial eQTL signals with genomic regions associated with endometriosis and other reproductive traits. We observed a total of 45,923 cis-eQTLs for 417 unique genes and 2,968 trans-eQTLs affecting 82 unique genes. Two eQTLs were located in known risk regions for endometriosis including LINC00339 on chromosome 1 and VEZT on chromosome 12 and there was evidence for eQTLs that may be target genes in genomic regions associated with other reproductive diseases. Dynamic changes in expression of individual genes across cycle include alterations in both mean expression and transcriptional silencing. Significant effects of cycle stage on mean expression levels were observed for (2,427/15,262) probes with detectable expression in at least 90% of samples and for (2,877/9,626) probes expressed in some, but not all samples. Pathway analysis supports similar biological control of both altered expression levels and transcriptional silencing. Taken together, these data identify strong genetic effects on genes with diverse functions in human endometrium and provide a platform for better understanding genetic effects on endometrial-related pathologies.
Three newly identified Immediate Early Genes of Bovine herpesvirus 1 lack the characteristic Octamer binding motif- 1
Authors: Pokhriyal Mayank , Ratta Barkha , Yadav Brijesh Singh , Kumar Ajay , Saxena Meeta , Verma Om Prakash , Sharma Bhaskar
Published: July 2018

Only three immediate early genes (IE) BICP0, BICP4 and BICP22 of Bovine herpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1) are known. These genes are expressed coordinately and their promoters are well characterized. We provide evidence for expression of three additional IE genes of BoHV-1 i.e. UL21, UL33 and UL34. These genes are expressed in the presence of cycloheximide (CH) at the same time as known IE genes. Surprisingly, the promoters of newly identified IE genes (UL21, UL33, UL34) lack the OCT-1 binding site, a considered site of transactivation of the BoHV-1 IE genes. The other difference in the promoters of the newly identified IE genes is the presence of TATA box at near optimal site. However, all the IE genes have similar spatial placements of C/EBPα, DPE and INR elements.
Sleep and light exposure across different levels of urbanisation in Brazilian communities
Authors: Pilz Luísa K. , Levandovski Rosa , Oliveira Melissa A. B. , Hidalgo Maria Paz , Roenneberg Till
Published: July 2018

Quilombos are settlements originally founded by Africans and African descendants (Quilombolas) in remote parts of Brazil to escape slavery. Due to individual histories, Quilombos nowadays exhibit different states of industrialisation, making them ideal for studying the influence of electrification on daily behaviour. In a comparative approach, we aimed to understand whether and how human sleep changes with the introduction of artificial light. We investigated daily rest-activity-rhythms and sleep-patterns in the Quilombolas’ by both wrist actimetry and the Munich ChronoType Questionnaire (MCTQ; the results of these two instruments correlated highly). Seven communities (MCTQ: N = 213/actimetry: N = 125) were compared in this study. Light exposure, phase of activity, sleep timing and duration differ across communities with various levels of urbanisation and histories of access to electricity. People living without electricity and those, who acquired it only very recently on average sleep earlier than those in more urbanised communities (mid-sleep about 1 hour earlier); sleep duration tends to be longer. Our results and those of others show that use of electricity and modern lifestyles have changed sleep behaviour. To understand the consequences of these changes for health, further studies are warranted.
Vitamin K supplementation during pregnancy for improving outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Shahrook Sadequa , Ota Erika , Hanada Nobutsugu , Sawada Kimi , Mori Rintaro
Published: July 2018

To study supplementation effect of vitamin K (VK) alone or combined with other nutrients administered to pregnant women, we searched Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group’s Trials Register (till 22 January 2016, updated on 28 February 2018) including other resources. Two review authors independently assessed randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials for inclusion, data extraction, accuracy, and risk of bias. We included older trials from high-income countries (six; 21,493 women-newborns), judged mostly as high or unclear bias risk. We could not assess high-risk e.g. epileptic women, but healthy women (different gestational ages) received varying VK dosages and duration. We meta-analysed neonatal bleeding (RR 1.16, 95% CI 0.59 to 2.29; P = 0.67) and maternal plasma VK1 (MD 2.46, 95% CI 0.98 to 3.93; P = 0.001). We found many outcomes were un-assessed e.g. perinatal death, maternal bleeding, healthcare utilization. Mostly newborns were included where VK found significantly effective for e.g. serum VK (mother-newborn), maternal breast milk VK. Few trials reported neonatal adverse side effects. The GRADE evidence quality was very low i.e. neonatal bleeding, neonatal jaundice, maternal plasma VK1. The intervention was favourable for maternal sera VK1 but remained uncertain for neonatal bleeding and other outcomes. The existing literature gaps warrant future investigations on un-assessed or inadequately reported outcomes.