bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Displacement, Diversity, and Mobility: Career Impacts of Japanese American Internment
Authors: Arellano-Bover Jaime
Published: December 2021

In 1942 more than 110,000 persons of Japanese origin living on the U.S. West Coast were forcibly sent away to ten internment camps for one to three years. This paper studies how internees’ careers were affected in the long run. Combining Census data, camp records, and survey data, I develop a predictor of a person’s internment status based on Census observables. Using a difference-in-differences framework, I find that internment had long-run positive effects on earnings. The evidence is consistent with mechanisms related to increased mobility due to re-optimization of occupation and location choices, possibly facilitated by camps’ high economic diversity.
The use of N-terminal (1–76) pro-brain natriuretic peptide in the aetiology of severe respiratory distress in the paediatric emergency department
Authors: Doğan Eser , Turan Caner , Yurtseven Ali , Turan Benay , Saz Eylem Ulaş
Published: December 2021

Introduction:

Acute respiratory distress is one of the most common reasons for paediatric emergency visits. Paediatric patients require rapid diagnosis and treatment. Our aim in this study was to use N-terminal (1–76) pro-brain natriuretic peptide to differentiate respiratory distress of cardiac and pulmonary origin in children. Our aim was to investigate the role of N-terminal (1–76) pro-brain natriuretic peptide in the detection of patients with new-onset heart failure in the absence of an underlying congenital heart anomaly.

Methods:

All children aged 0–18 years who presented to the paediatric emergency department due to severe respiratory distress were included in the study prospectively. The patients’ demographic characteristics, presenting complaints, clinical findings, and N-terminal (1–76) pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentrations, were investigated. In patients with severe Pediatric Respiratory Severity Score, congestive heart failure score was calculated using the modified Ross Score.

Results:

This study included 47 children between the ages of 1 month and 14 years. The median N-terminal (1–76) pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentration was 5717 (IQR:16158) pg/mL in the 25 patients with severe respiratory distress due to heart failure and in the 22 patients with severe respiratory distress due to lung pathology was 437 (IQR:874) pg/mL (p < 0.001). In the 25 patients with severe respiratory distress due to heart failure, 8281 (IQR:8372) pg/mL in the 16 patients with underlying congenital heart anomalies, and 1983 (IQR:2150) pg/mL in the 9 patients without a congenital heart anomaly (p < 0.001). The 45 patients in the control group had a median N-terminal (1–76) pro-brain natriuretic peptide concentration of 47.2 (IQR:56.2) pg/mL.

Conclusion:

Using scoring systems in combination with N-terminal (1–76) pro-brain natriuretic peptide cut-off values can help direct and manage treatment.
Effect of bilingualism on infants’ cognitive flexibility
Authors: Poulin-Dubois Diane , Neumann Cassandra , Masoud Sandra , Gazith Adina
Published: December 2021

Research suggests that bilinguals often outperform monolinguals on tasks that tap into executive functions, such as those requiring conflict resolution and cognitive flexibility. Recently, better attentional control has been detected in infants as young as 6 months, thereby providing a possible basis for a cognitive benefit before language production. The goal of the present study was to examine if cognitive flexibility is more advanced in bilingual infants. A detour reaching task assessing conflict resolution, a delayed response task assessing shifting, and a multiple location task assessing maintaining, were administered to 17-month-old infants. The main findings revealed that being bilingual did not improve performance on any of the executive function tasks. Furthermore, current exposure to a second language or language proficiency did not impact executive functioning. We conclude that a bilingual advantage in cognitive flexibility may not be present before children have enough experience in code switching.
A simple and effective broadband decoupling structure for UWB-MIMO antenna
Authors: Zhai Huiqing , Zhang Kunming , Huo Yu , Guo Chaozong
Published: December 2021

A new type of closed square ring decoupling structure is proposed in this letter, which can effectively reduce the coupling of antennas. The designed antenna is composed of two elliptical monopoles and a common ground loaded with a broadband parasitic decoupling structure. Considering the impedance matching, each antenna element is changed from the original rectangular microstrip feed to a tapered microstrip feed and etched a circular slot on the elliptical monopole patch. By comparison with the original antenna without any decoupling structure, through loading the broadband decoupling structure on the ground, the antenna isolation is improved by 10 dB in most frequency bands. Comparing simulation and measurement results, the antenna achieves better than 25 dB isolation over the whole operating band (3.3–12 GHz). By manufacturing and testing the antenna designed in this article, the excellent performance parameters obtained also prove that the antenna can be used in portable devices.
Entwicklung und Validierung eines Fragebogens zur Messung der Qualität indirekter Leistungssteuerung in Organisationen (ILSO)
Authors: Mustafić Maida , Krause Andreas , Dorsemagen Cosima , Knecht Michaela
Published: December 2021

Zusammenfassung. Die Arbeitsleistung von abhängig Beschäftigten wird in Organisationen häufig ergebnisorientiert gesteuert: Es kommt weniger auf die investierte Arbeitszeit als vielmehr auf das Resultat an. Für diese ergebnisorientierte, indirekte Leistungssteuerung liegen bislang kaum diagnostische Instrumente vor, die im Rahmen quantitativer Studien eingesetzt werden können. Über einen handlungsregulationstheoretischen Zugang zur Theorie der indirekten Steuerung war es möglich, den Fragebogen zur Erfassung der Qualität indirekter Leistungssteuerung in Organisationen (ILSO) zu entwickeln. Der Fragebogen beinhaltet 16 Subskalen, die sich in drei übergeordnete Dimensionen eingruppieren lassen: Regulationsanforderungen, Regulationsmöglichkeiten und Regulationsprobleme. Item- und Skalenanalysen sowie die Überprüfung der konvergenten, diskriminanten und kriterienbezogenen Validität in einer ersten Konstruktionsstudie ( N = 244), einer zweiten Konstruktionsstudie ( N = 513) sowie einer Validierungsstudie (Welle 1: N = 598 / Welle 2: N = 353) bestätigen die Qualität des Instrumentes. Wir empfehlen die Anwendung des Verfahrens unter Anderem zur psychischen Gefährdungsbeurteilung in indirekt gesteuerten Betrieben.
Item Response Theory and Differential Item Functioning Analyses With the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire–Revised in US and Chinese Samples
Authors: Yiu Huen Jenny Mei , Yip Paul Siu Fai , Osman Augustine , Man Leung Angel Nga
Published: December 2021

Abstract: Background: Despite the widespread use of the Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire–Revised (SBQ-R) and advances in item response theory (IRT) modeling, item-level analysis with the SBQ-R has been minimal. Aims: This study extended IRT modeling strategies to examine the response parameters and potential differential item functioning (DIF) of the individual SBQ-R items in samples of US ( N = 320) and Chinese ( N = 298) undergraduate students. Method: Responses to the items were calibrated using the unidimensional graded response IRT model. Goodness-of-fit, item parameters, and DIF were evaluated. Results: The unidimensional graded response IRT model provided a good fit to the sample data. Results showed that the SBQ-R items had various item discrimination parameters and item severity parameters. Also, each SBQ-R item functioned similarly between the US and Chinese respondents. In particular, Item 1 (history of attempts) demonstrated high discrimination and severity of suicide-related thoughts and behaviors (STBs). Limitations: The use of cross-sectional data from convenience samples of undergraduate students could be considered a major limitation. Conclusion: The findings from the IRT analysis provided empirical support that each SBQ-R item taps into STBs and that scores for Item 1 can be used for screening purposes.
Suicide of a Tenor Amidst the Stage Setting of the Werther Opera's Death Scene
Authors: Mestas Manina , Arendt Florian
Published: December 2021

Abstract: Background: Reporting on suicide can elicit an increase in suicides, a phenomenon termed the “Werther effect.” The name can be traced back to an alleged spike in suicides after the publication of Goethe's novel The Sorrows of Young Werther in 1774, in which the protagonist Werther dies by suicide. Aims: Acknowledging the importance and primacy of systematic ecological and individual-level studies, we provide a historical single-case report of the suicide of a “late arrival of the Werther epidemic,” as the death was headlined in a news report in 1927. Method: Archival research on tenor Paul Vidal's suicide was conducted. Results: Vidal reconstructed the scene of the final act of the opera Werther in his apartment and died by a gunshot, as did Werther. Limitations: Causal interpretations must be made with caution. Conclusion: Striking similarities between Werther's and Vidal's deaths support the idea of strong identification with the fictional narrative and suggest causal effects. Considering the repeated high level of immersiveness and the intense emotions of opera performances, it is likely that performing the role of Werther increases identification processes, contributing to detrimental effects. The lack of knowledge regarding the role of fictional suicide stories on artists' suicides is discussed.
The Lateralization of Attentional Functions in Action Video Game Players
Authors: Wu Xia , Zhang Yan , Guo Maojie , Jiang Yunpeng , Wang Xiaozhuang
Published: December 2021

Abstract. Action video game players (AVGPs) are proven to be significantly different from non-AVGPs (NAVGPs) in attention, which is proposed to be divided into three functional networks: alerting, orienting, and execution control. However, whether the hemispheric lateralization of attentional functions is influenced by the action video game is unclear. In the present study, we examined the lateralization of the three attentional functions in a group of AVGPs ( n = 33) compared to NAVGPs ( n = 34). The results showed that, relative to NAVGPs, the interactions between orienting and executive control in the left hemispheres of AVGPs were higher than those in the right hemisphere. Moreover, the correlations among the functions are much more sensitive in the left hemisphere. These results suggest significant left lateralization of the attentional functions in AVGPs.
Suppression of Ionospheric Irregularity Due to Auroral Particle Impact
Authors: Takahashi Toru , Spicher Andres , Di Mare Francesca , Rowland Douglas E. , Pfaff Robert F. , Collier Michael R. , Clausen Lasse Boy Novock , Moen Jøran Idar
Published: December 2021

The VISIONS‐2 35.039 sounding rocket was launched from Ny‐Ålesund, Svalbard, on 7 December 2018 at 11:06 UT, and traveled overhead of the cusp aurora. The payload reached an apogee of 806.6 km and provided measurements of the electric field (E) and electron density (Ne) with a high sampling rate of 6,250 Hz. The high‐sampling‐data make it possible to estimate the horizontal structure of E and Ne on scales ranging from meters to kilometers scale. The horizontal variation in the electron density and electric field (ΔNe/Ne and ΔE) and integrated power of Ne and E (ΣPNe and ΣPE) for 1–10, 10–100, and 100–1,000 Hz range were derived. The derived values were compared with the 557.7 and 630.0 nm emission intensities obtained from an all‐sky camera installed in Ny‐Ålesund projected at the footprint of the rocket, which was calculated by tracing the Earth's magnetic field line from the rocket altitude to the emission layer. ΔNe/Ne, ΔE, ΣPNe, and ΣPE increased with the 630.0 nm emission intensity. Of particular interest is the lower level irregularity was observed when the 557.7 nm emission intensity exceeded 4.5 kR compared with other time interval. This may suggest that particle impact ionization created sufficient Pedersen conductance in the E‐region to short the F‐region current. This short‐circuit seemed to cause the suppression of the irregularities in the F‐region and lower level irregularities were also observed in the rocket altitude.
A Monsoon-Filled Reservoir Might Have Nudged a Fault to Fail
Authors: Rose Maria
Published: December 2021

New research examines whether a sudden increase in water loading in Pakistan’s Mangla Dam might have been connected to the 2019 New Mirpur earthquake.
Incision of Submarine Channels Over Pockmark Trains in the South China Sea
Authors: Yu Kaiqi , Miramontes Elda , Alves Tiago M. , Li Wei , Liang Linlin , Li Shuang , Zhan Wenhuan , Wu Shiguo
Published: December 2021

The genesis of submarine channels is often controlled by gravity flows, but channels can also be formed by oceanographic processes. Using multibeam bathymetry and two‐dimensional seismic data from the western South China Sea, this study reveals how pockmarks can ultimately form channels under the effect of bottom currents and gravity‐driven sedimentary processes. We demonstrate that alongslope and across‐slope channels were initiated by pockmark trains on the seafloor. Discrete pockmarks were elongated due to the erosion of gravity‐driven sedimentary processes and bottom currents, and later coalesced to form immature channels with irregular thalwegs. These gradually evolved into mature channels with continuous overbanks and smooth thalwegs. Submarine channel evolution was significantly influenced by seafloor topography since the Late Miocene. The evolutionary model documented here is a key to understanding how channels are formed in deep‐water environments.
The MJO From CMIP5 to CMIP6: Perspectives From Tracking MJO Precipitation
Authors: Chen Guiwan , Ling Jian , Zhang Rongwang , Xiao Ziniu , Li Chongyin
Published: December 2021

Reproducing the Madden‐Julian Oscillation (MJO) remains a challenge in many climate models. This study compares the MJO simulation skills in 17 pairs of Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) and Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) simulations. Generally, the MJO characteristics are better reproduced in CMIP6, their inter‐model spreads are obviously reduced in CMIP6. However, most CMIP6 models still underestimate the frequency of MJO initiation over the Indian Ocean and the MJO amplitude, exaggerate the barrier effect of the Maritime Continent (MC) on MJO propagation. Models with lower MJO simulation skills in their CMIP5 versions show improvements in CMIP6, while other models tend to show degraded MJO simulation skills in CMIP6. The possible reasons for the apparent improvements of MJO simulations from CMIP5 to CMIP6 in six models was further explored. It was found that the enhanced land precipitation over the MC prior to the MJO convection entering this region is more obvious in CMIP6.
Competitive Influences of Different Plasma Waves on the Pitch Angle Distribution of Energetic Electrons Inside and Outside Plasmasphere
Authors: Li L. Y. , Yu J. , Cao J. B. , Chen L. J. , Reeves G. D. , Blake J. B.
Published: December 2021

By analyzing the Van Allen Probe B observations and 2‐D simulations, we found that the competitive influences of different plasma waves on the pitch angle distribution of energetic electrons (hundreds of keV) depend on density of ambient plasmas and relative intensity of waves. In the high‐density plasmasphere (>70 cm−3), plasmaspheric hiss is able to effectively remove small pitch angle electrons (<60°), while the participation of intense magnetosonic (MS) waves merely increases part of large pitch angle electrons (>60°). The combined diffusions by the two waves create pancake‐like electron pitch angle distributions in the high‐density region. Outside the plasmapause, the same‐intensity MS waves and weak exohiss waves mainly reduce large pitch angle electrons and thus create butterfly‐like pitch angle distributions in the low‐density trough (<70 cm−3). These results indicate that energetic electrons could have different pitch angle distributions under similar wave environments but different plasma densities.
Bathymetry Beneath the Amery Ice Shelf, East Antarctica, Revealed by Airborne Gravity
Authors: Yang Junjun , Guo Jingxue , Greenbaum Jamin S. , Cui Xiangbin , Tu Liangcheng , Li Lin , Jong Lenneke M. , Tang Xueyuan , Li Bingrui , Blankenship Donald D. , Roberts Jason L. , van Ommen Tas , Sun Bo
Published: December 2021

The bathymetry under the Amery Ice Shelf steers the flow of ocean currents transporting ocean heat, and thus is a prerequisite for precise modeling of ice‐ocean interactions. However, hampered by thick ice, direct observations of sub‐ice‐shelf bathymetry are rare, limiting our ability to quantify the evolution of this sector and its future contribution to global mean sea level rise. We estimated the bathymetry of this region from airborne gravity anomaly using simulated annealing. Unlike the current model which shows a comparatively flat seafloor beneath the calving front, our estimation results reveal a 255‐m‐deep shoal at the western side and a 1,050‐m‐deep trough at the eastern side, which are important topographic features controlling the ocean heat transport into the sub‐ice cavity. The new model also reveals previously unknown depressions and sills that are critical to an improved modeling of the sub‐ice‐shelf ocean circulation and induced basal melting.
A New Model of Jupiter's Magnetic Field at the Completion of Juno's Prime Mission
Authors: Connerney J. E. P. , Timmins S. , Oliversen R. J. , Espley J. R. , Joergensen J. L. , Kotsiaros S. , Joergensen P. S. , Merayo J. M. G. , Herceg M. , Bloxham J. , Moore K. M. , Mura A. , Moirano A. , Bolton S. J. , Levin S. M.
Published: December 2021

A spherical harmonic model of the magnetic field of Jupiter is obtained from vector magnetic field observations acquired by the Juno spacecraft during 32 of its first 33 polar orbits. These Prime Mission orbits sample Jupiter's magnetic field nearly uniformly in longitude (∼11° separation) as measured at equator crossing. The planetary magnetic field is represented with a degree 30 spherical harmonic and the external field is approximated near the origin with a simple external spherical harmonic of degree 1. Partial solution of the underdetermined inverse problem using generalized inverse techniques yields a model (“JRM33”) of the planetary magnetic field with spherical harmonic coefficients reasonably well determined through degree and order 13. Useful information regarding the field extends through degree 18, well fit by a Lowes' spectrum with a dynamo core radius of 0.81 Rj, presumably the outer radius of the convective metallic hydrogen region. This new model provides a most detailed view of a planetary dynamo and evidence of advection of the magnetic field by deep zonal winds in the vicinity of the Great Blue Spot (GBS), an isolated and intense patch of flux near Jupiter's equator. Comparison of the JRM33 and JRM09 models suggests secular variation of the field in the vicinity of the GBS during Juno's nearly 5 years of operation in orbit about Jupiter. The observed secular variation is consistent with the penetration of zonal winds to a depth of ∼3,500 km where a flow velocity of ∼0.04 ms−1 is required to match the observations.
Conformational heterogeneity coupled with β-fibril formation of a scaffold protein involved in chronic mental illnesses
Authors: Cukkemane Abhishek , Becker Nina , Zielinski Mara , Frieg Benedikt , Lakomek Nils-Alexander , Heise Henrike , Schröder Gunnar F. , Willbold Dieter , Weiergräber Oliver H.
Published: December 2021

Chronic mental illnesses (CMIs) pose a significant challenge to global health due to their complex and poorly understood etiologies and hence, absence of causal therapies. Research of the past two decades has revealed dysfunction of the disrupted in schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) protein as a predisposing factor involved in several psychiatric disorders. DISC1 is a multifaceted protein that serves myriads of functions in mammalian cells, for instance, influencing neuronal development and synapse maintenance. It serves as a scaffold hub forming complexes with a variety (~300) of partners that constitute its interactome. Herein, using combinations of structural and biophysical tools, we demonstrate that the C-region of the DISC1 protein is highly polymorphic, with important consequences for its physiological role. Results from solid-state NMR spectroscopy and electron microscopy indicate that the protein not only forms symmetric oligomers but also gives rise to fibrils closely resembling those found in certain established amyloid proteinopathies. Furthermore, its aggregation as studied by isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) is an exergonic process, involving a negative enthalpy change that drives the formation of oligomeric (presumably tetrameric) species as well as β-fibrils. We have been able to narrow down the β-core region participating in fibrillization to residues 716–761 of full-length human DISC1. This region is absent in the DISC1Δ22aa splice variant, resulting in reduced association with proteins from the dynein motor complex, viz., NDE-like 1 (NDEL1) and lissencephaly 1 (LIS1), which are crucial during mitosis. By employing surface plasmon resonance, we show that the oligomeric DISC1 C-region has an increased affinity and shows cooperativity in binding to LIS1 and NDEL1, in contrast to the noncooperative binding mode exhibited by the monomeric version. Based on the derived structural models, we propose that the association between the binding partners involves two neighboring subunits of DISC1 C-region oligomers. Altogether, our findings highlight the significance of the DISC1 C-region as a crucial factor governing the balance between its physiological role as a multifunctional scaffold protein and aggregation-related aberrations with potential significance for disease.
From 'ICDAS' to 'CariesCare International': the 20-year journey building international consensus to take caries evidence into clinical practice
Authors: Pitts Nigel B. , Banerjee Avijit , Mazevet Marco E. , Goffin Guy , Martignon Stefania
Published: December 2021

This paper charts the 20-year collaborative journey made by international teams of dental researchers, educators and practitioners. Following the initial development of the International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS) in 2002, the International Caries Classification and Management System (ICCMS) was collaboratively developed between 2010-2017 with several dental research and practice organisations, and influenced by best evidence judged via SIGN methodology, the UNEP Minamata Treaty (and linked phasing down of dental amalgam), three Dental Policy Labs and an international movement in operative dentistry to move towards minimally invasive dentistry. The FDI World Dental Federation publicised and advocated the ICCMS in 2019, when the 'CariesCare International' Consensus Guide and 4D caries management system was published to aid the delivery of ICCMS into practice. This system, which is designed to help practitioners deliver optimal caries care for patients, is now being adapted internationally for post-pandemic use in the 'Caries OUT' study. It is also being used as a vehicle for implementing the updated Delivering better oral health guidance on caries, as part of the minimum intervention oral healthcare delivery framework in the UK.
Knockdown of OLR1 weakens glycolytic metabolism to repress colon cancer cell proliferation and chemoresistance by downregulating SULT2B1 via c-MYC
Authors: Zhao Tiancheng , Li Yezhou , Shen Kexin , Wang Quan , Zhang Jiayu
Published: December 2021

Chemoresistance is one of the major problems of colon cancer treatment. In tumors, glycolytic metabolism has been identified to promote cell proliferation and chemoresistance. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying glycolytic metabolism and chemoresistance in colon cancer remains enigmatic. Hence, this research was designed to explore the mechanism underlying theOLR1/c-MYC/SULT2B1 axis in the regulation of glycolytic metabolism, to affect colon cancer cell proliferation and chemoresistance. Colon cancer tissues and LoVo cells were attained, whereOLR1, c-MYC, and SULT2B1 expression was detected by immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR, and western blot analysis. Next, ectopic expression and knockdown assays were implemented in LoVo cells. Cell proliferation was detected by MTS assay and clone formation. Extracellular acidification, glucose uptake, lactate production, ATP/ADP ratio, and GLUT1 and LDHA expression were measured to evaluate glycolytic metabolism. Then, the transfected cells were treated with chemotherapeutic agents to assess drug resistance by MTS experiments and P-gp and SMAD4 expression by RT-qPCR. A nude mouse model of colon cancer transplantation was constructed for in vivo verification. The levels ofOLR1, c-MYC, and SULT2B1 were upregulated in colon cancer tissues and cells. Mechanistically,OLR1increased c-MYC expression to upregulate SULT2B1 in colon cancer cells. Moreover, knockdown ofOLR1, c-MYC, or SULT2B1 weakened glycolytic metabolism, proliferation, and chemoresistance of colon cancer cells. In vivo experiments authenticated thatOLR1knockdown repressed the tumorigenesis and chemoresistance in nude mice by downregulating c-MYC and SULT2B1. Conclusively, knockdown ofOLR1might diminish SULT2B1 expression by downregulating c-MYC, thereby restraining glycolytic metabolism to inhibit colon cancer cell proliferation and chemoresistance.
RPRD1A stabilizes NRF2 and aggravates HCC progression through competing with p62 for TRIM21 binding
Authors: Feng Xiaofan , Jiang Tianyi , Yang Chun , Pang Shujie , Ding Zhiwen , Hu Heping , Wang Hui , Dong Liwei , Yang Ning
Published: December 2021

NRF2 is the master transcriptional activator of cytoprotective genes and Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1), a biosensor for electrophiles and oxidation, promotes NRF2 degradation in unstressed conditions. SQSTM1/p62, an oncogenic protein aberrantly accumulated in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), binds and sequestrates Keap1, leading to the prevention of NRF2 degradation. Here, we show that p15INK4b-related sequence/regulation of nuclear pre-mRNA domain-containing protein 1A (RPRD1A) is highly expressed in HCC tumors and correlated with aggressive clinicopathological features. RPRD1A competitively interacts with TRIM21, an E3 ubiquitin ligase of p62, resulting in the decrease of p62 ubiquitination and the increased sequestration for Keap1. Therefore, RPRD1A enhances the nuclear translocation of NRF2, which induces gene expression for counteracting oxidative stress, maintaining cancer cells survival, and promoting HCC development. Moreover, disturbing the redox homeostasis of cancer cells by genetic knockdown of RPRD1A sensitizes cancer cells to platinum-induced cell death. Our study reveals RPRD1A is involved in the oxidative stress defense program and highlights the therapeutic benefits of targeting pathways that support antioxidation.
Positive-to-negative subthreshold swing of a MOSFET tuned by the ferroelectric switching dynamics of BiFeO3
Authors: Liu Chuanchuan , Wang Yuchen , Sun Haoyang , Ma Chao , Luo Zhen , Wang He , Yin Yuewei , Li Xiaoguang
Published: December 2021

Ferroelectricity can reduce the subthreshold swing (SS) of metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) to below the room-temperature Boltzmann limit of ~60 mV/dec and provides an important strategy to achieve a steeperSS. Surprisingly, by carefully tuning the polarization switching dynamics of BiFeO3ferroelectric capacitors theSSof a commercial power MOSFET can even be tuned to zero or a negative value, i.e., the drain current increases with a constant or decreasing gate voltage. In particular, in addition to the positiveSSof lower than 60 mV/dec, the zero and negativeSScan be established with a drain current spanning for over seven orders of magnitude. These intriguing phenomena are explained by the ferroelectric polarization switching dynamics, which change the charge redistributions and accordingly affect the voltage drops across the ferroelectric capacitor and MOSFET. This study provides deep insights into understanding the steepSSin ferroelectric MOSFETs, which could be promising for designing advanced MOSFETs with an ultralow and tunableSS.
Cubic 3D Chern photonic insulators with orientable large Chern vectors
Authors: Devescovi Chiara , García-Díez Mikel , Robredo Iñigo , Blanco de Paz María , Lasa-Alonso Jon , Bradlyn Barry , Mañes Juan L. , G. Vergniory Maia , García-Etxarri Aitzol
Published: December 2021

Time Reversal Symmetry (TRS) broken topological phases provide gapless surface states protected by topology, regardless of additional internal symmetries, spin or valley degrees of freedom. Despite the numerous demonstrations of 2D topological phases, few examples of 3D topological systems with TRS breaking exist. In this article, we devise a general strategy to design 3D Chern insulating (3D CI) cubic photonic crystals in a weakly TRS broken environment with orientable and arbitrarily large Chern vectors. The designs display topologically protected chiral and unidirectional surface states with disjoint equifrequency loops. The resulting crystals present the following characteristics: First, by increasing the Chern number, multiple surface states channels can be supported. Second, the Chern vector can be oriented along any direction simply changing the magnetization axis, opening up larger 3D CI/3D CI interfacing possibilities as compared to 2D. Third, by lowering the TRS breaking requirements, the system is ideal for realistic photonic applications where the magnetic response is weak.
A targetable LIFR−NF-κB−LCN2 axis controls liver tumorigenesis and vulnerability to ferroptosis
Authors: Yao Fan , Deng Yalan , Zhao Yang , Mei Ying , Zhang Yilei , Liu Xiaoguang , Martinez Consuelo , Su Xiaohua , Rosato Roberto R. , Teng Hongqi , Hang Qinglei , Yap Shannon , Chen Dahu , Wang Yumeng , Chen Mei-Ju May , Zhang Mutian , Liang Han , Xie Dong , Chen Xin , Zhu Hao , Chang Jenny C. , You M. James , Sun Yutong , Gan Boyi , Ma Li
Published: December 2021

The growing knowledge of ferroptosis has suggested the role and therapeutic potential of ferroptosis in cancer, but has not been translated into effective therapy. Liver cancer, primarily hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is highly lethal with limited treatment options. LIFR is frequently downregulated in HCC. Here, by studying hepatocyte-specific and inducible Lifr-knockout mice, we show that loss of Lifr promotes liver tumorigenesis and confers resistance to drug-induced ferroptosis. Mechanistically, loss of LIFR activates NF-κB signaling through SHP1, leading to upregulation of the iron-sequestering cytokine LCN2, which depletes iron and renders insensitivity to ferroptosis inducers. Notably, an LCN2-neutralizing antibody enhances the ferroptosis-inducing and anticancer effects of sorafenib on HCC patient-derived xenograft tumors with low LIFR expression and high LCN2 expression. Thus, anti-LCN2 therapy is a promising way to improve liver cancer treatment by targeting ferroptosis.
Investigating immune and non-immune cell interactions in head and neck tumors by single-cell RNA sequencing
Authors: Kürten Cornelius H. L. , Kulkarni Aditi , Cillo Anthony R. , Santos Patricia M. , Roble Anna K. , Onkar Sayali , Reeder Carly , Lang Stephan , Chen Xueer , Duvvuri Umamaheswar , Kim Seungwon , Liu Angen , Tabib Tracy , Lafyatis Robert , Feng Jian , Gao Shou-Jiang , Bruno Tullia C. , Vignali Dario A. A. , Lu Xinghua , Bao Riyue , Vujanovic Lazar , Ferris Robert L.
Published: December 2021

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is characterized by complex relations between stromal, epithelial, and immune cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). To enable the development of more efficacious therapies, we aim to study the heterogeneity, signatures of unique cell populations, and cell-cell interactions of non-immune and immune cell populations in 6 human papillomavirus (HPV)+ and 12 HPV– HNSCC patient tumor and matched peripheral blood specimens using single-cell RNA sequencing. Using this dataset of 134,606 cells, we show cell type-specific signatures associated with inflammation and HPV status, describe the negative prognostic value of fibroblasts with elastic differentiation specifically in the HPV+ TME, predict therapeutically targetable checkpoint receptor-ligand interactions, and show that tumor-associated macrophages are dominant contributors of PD-L1 and other immune checkpoint ligands in the TME. We present a comprehensive single-cell view of cell-intrinsic mechanisms and cell-cell communication shaping the HNSCC microenvironment.
Fluoropolymer-based organic memristor with multifunctionality for flexible neural network system
Authors: Kim Min-Hwi , Park Hea-Lim , Kim Min-Hoi , Jang Jaewon , Bae Jin-Hyuk , Kang In Man , Lee Sin-Hyung
Published: December 2021

In this study, we propose an effective strategy for achieving the flexible one organic transistor–one organic memristor (1T–1R) synapse using the multifunctional organic memristor. The dynamics of the conductive nanofilament (CF) in a hydrophobic fluoropolymer medium is explored and a hydrophobic fluoropolymer-based organic memristor is developed. The flexible 1T–1R synapse can be fabricated using the solution process because the hydrophobic fluorinated polymer layer is produced on the organic transistor without degradation of the underlying semiconductor. The developed flexible synapse exhibits multilevel conductance with high reliability and stability because of the fluoropolymer film, which acts as a medium for CF growth and an encapsulating layer for the organic transistor. Moreover, the synapse cell shows potential for high-density memory systems and practical neural networks. This effective concept for developing practical flexible neural networks would be a basic platform to realize the smart wearable electronics.
Thermally populated versus field-induced triplon bound states in the Shastry-Sutherland lattice SrCu2(BO3)2
Authors: Wulferding Dirk , Choi Youngsu , Lee Seungyeol , Prosnikov Mikhail A. , Gallais Yann , Lemmens Peter , Zhong Chengchao , Kageyama Hiroshi , Choi Kwang-Yong
Published: December 2021

The Shastry–Sutherland compound SrCu2(BO3)2constituting orthogonally coupled dimers harbors anS = 0 singlet ground state. The confluence of strong interdimer interaction and frustration engenders a spectrum of low-energy excitations including localized triplons as well as singlet and triplet bound states. Their dynamics are controlled by an external magnetic field and temperature. Here, we employ high-field Raman spectroscopy to map the field and temperature evolution of such bosonic composite quasiparticles on approaching the 1/8 magnetization plateau. Our study unveils that the magnetic field and thermal fluctuations show remarkably similar effects in melting the singlet bound states, but are disparate in their effects on the fine spectral shapes. This, together with the anti-crossing of two singlet bound states in the intermediate fieldB = 10 − 16 T, is discussed in terms of the correlated dynamics of frustrated, interacting bosons.
High-performance HgCdTe avalanche photodetector enabled with suppression of band-to-band tunneling effect in mid-wavelength infrared
Authors: Chen Jin , Chen Jian , Li Xin , He Jiale , Yang Liao , Wang Jian , Yu Feilong , Zhao Zengyue , Shen Chuan , Guo Huijun , Li Guanhai , Chen Xiaoshuang , Lu Wei
Published: December 2021

HgCdTe avalanche photodiodes promise various fascinating applications due to the outstanding capability of detecting weak signals or even single photon. However, the underlying transport mechanisms of diverse dark current components are still unresolved at high reverse bias, thus limiting the development of high-performance devices. Here, we establish an accurate model to demonstrate the competitive mechanism between band-to-band and avalanche dark currents in positive-intrinsic-negative structures. Based on the high consistency between the simulated and measured results, we find that both components jointly dominate overall dark current but with a larger avalanche current. This breaks the conventional cognition that band-to-band dark current contributes the majority. With the guidance, we reconstruct an optimized device and achieve gain 1876 (6153) and dark current 10−10 (10−9) A at bias −10 (−10.5) V, respectively. Comparisons of dark current and gain with reported single-element devices further confirm the outstanding performance of our device.
Neural computations in children’s third-party interventions are modulated by their parents’ moral values
Authors: Kim Minkang , Decety Jean , Wu Ling , Baek Soohyun , Sankey Derek
Published: December 2021

One means by which humans maintain social cooperation is through intervention in third-party transgressions, a behaviour observable from the early years of development. While it has been argued that pre-school age children’s intervention behaviour is driven by normative understandings, there is scepticism regarding this claim. There is also little consensus regarding the underlying mechanisms and motives that initially drive intervention behaviours in pre-school children. To elucidate the neural computations of moral norm violation associated with young children’s intervention into third-party transgression, forty-seven preschoolers (average age 53.92 months) participated in a study comprising of electroencephalographic (EEG) measurements, a live interaction experiment, and a parent survey about moral values. This study provides data indicating that early implicit evaluations, rather than late deliberative processes, are implicated in a child’s spontaneous intervention into third-party harm. Moreover, our findings suggest that parents’ values about justice influence their children’s early neural responses to third-party harm and their overt costly intervention behaviour.
Air temperature drives the evolution of mid-infrared optical properties of butterfly wings
Authors: Krishna Anirudh , Nie Xiao , Briscoe Adriana D. , Lee Jaeho
Published: December 2021

This study uncovers a correlation between the mid-infrared emissivity of butterfly wings and the average air temperature of their habitats across the world. Butterflies from cooler climates have a lower mid-infrared emissivity, which limits heat losses to surroundings, and butterflies from warmer climates have a higher mid-infrared emissivity, which enhances radiative cooling. The mid-infrared emissivity showed no correlation with other investigated climatic factors. Phylogenetic independent contrasts analysis indicates the microstructures of butterfly wings may have evolved in part to regulate mid-infrared emissivity as an adaptation to climate, rather than as phylogenetic inertia. Our findings offer new insights into the role of microstructures in thermoregulation and suggest both evolutionary and physical constraints to butterflies’ abilities to adapt to climate change.
In-play forecasting in football using event and positional data
Authors: Klemp Maximilian , Wunderlich Fabian , Memmert Daniel
Published: December 2021

Two highly relevant aspects of football, namely forecasting of results and performance analysis by means of performance indicators, are combined in the present study by analysing the value of in-play information in terms of event and positional data in forecasting the further course of football matches. Event and positional data from 50 matches, including more than 300 million datapoints were used to extract a total of 18 performance indicators. Moreover, goals from more than 30,000 additional matches have been analysed. Results suggest that surprisingly goals do not possess any relevant informative value on the further course of a match, if controlling for pre-game market expectation by means of betting odds. Performance indicators based on event and positional data have been shown to possess more informative value than goals, but still are not sufficient to reveal significant predictive value in-play. The present results are relevant to match analysts and bookmakers who should not overestimate the value of in-play information when explaining match performance or compiling in-play betting odds. Moreover, the framework presented in the present study has methodological implications for performance analysis in football, as it suggests that researchers should increasingly segment matches by scoreline and control carefully for general team strength.
Longitudinal monitoring in Cambodia suggests higher circulation of alpha and betacoronaviruses in juvenile and immature bats of three species
Authors: Cappelle Julien , Furey Neil , Hoem Thavry , Ou Tey Putita , Lim Thona , Hul Vibol , Heng Oudam , Chevalier Véronique , Dussart Philippe , Duong Veasna
Published: December 2021

Recent studies suggest that coronaviruses circulate widely in Southeast Asian bat species and that the progenitors of the SARS-Cov-2 virus could have originated in rhinolophid bats in the region. Our objective was to assess the diversity and circulation patterns of coronavirus in several bat species in Southeast Asia. We undertook monthly live-capture sessions and sampling in Cambodia over 17 months to cover all phases of the annual reproduction cycle of bats and test specifically the association between their age and CoV infection status. We additionally examined current information on the reproductive phenology of Rhinolophus and other bat species presently known to occur in mainland southeast China, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. Results from our longitudinal monitoring (573 bats belonging to 8 species) showed an overall proportion of positive PCR tests for CoV of 4.2% (24/573) in cave-dwelling bats from Kampot and 4.75% (22/463) in flying-foxes from Kandal. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the PCR amplicon sequences of CoVs (n = 46) obtained clustered in Alphacoronavirus and Betacoronavirus. Interestingly, Hipposideros larvatus sensu lato harbored viruses from both genera. Our results suggest an association between positive detections of coronaviruses and juvenile and immature bats in Cambodia (OR = 3.24 [1.46–7.76], p = 0.005). Since the limited data presently available from literature review indicates that reproduction is largely synchronized among rhinolophid and hipposiderid bats in our study region, particularly in its more seasonal portions (above 16° N), this may lead to seasonal patterns in CoV circulation. Overall, our study suggests that surveillance of CoV in insectivorous bat species in Southeast Asia, including SARS-CoV-related coronaviruses in rhinolophid bats, could be targeted from June to October for species exhibiting high proportions of juveniles and immatures during these months. It also highlights the need to develop long-term longitudinal surveys of bats and improve our understanding of their ecology in the region, for both biodiversity conservation and public health reasons.
Probabilistic comparison of gray and white matter coverage between depth and surface intracranial electrodes in epilepsy
Authors: Anderson Daria Nesterovich , Charlebois Chantel M. , Smith Elliot H. , Arain Amir M. , Davis Tyler S. , Rolston John D.
Published: December 2021

In this study, we quantified the coverage of gray and white matter during intracranial electroencephalography in a cohort of epilepsy patients with surface and depth electrodes. We included 65 patients with strip electrodes (n = 12), strip and grid electrodes (n = 24), strip, grid, and depth electrodes (n = 7), or depth electrodes only (n = 22). Patient-specific imaging was used to generate probabilistic gray and white matter maps and atlas segmentations. Gray and white matter coverage was quantified using spherical volumes centered on electrode centroids, with radii ranging from 1 to 15 mm, along with detailed finite element models of local electric fields. Gray matter coverage was highly dependent on the chosen radius of influence (RoI). Using a 2.5 mm RoI, depth electrodes covered more gray matter than surface electrodes; however, surface electrodes covered more gray matter at RoI larger than 4 mm. White matter coverage and amygdala and hippocampal coverage was greatest for depth electrodes at all RoIs. This study provides the first probabilistic analysis to quantify coverage for different intracranial recording configurations. Depth electrodes offer increased coverage of gray matter over other recording strategies if the desired signals are local, while subdural grids and strips sample more gray matter if the desired signals are diffuse.
Materials degradation in non-thermal plasma generators by corona discharge
Authors: Cogollo de Cádiz Mar , López Arrabal Adrián , Díaz Lantada Andrés , Aguirre M. V.
Published: December 2021

Atmospheric corona discharge devices are being studied as innovative systems for cooling, sterilization, and propulsion, in several industrial fields, from robotics to medical devices, from drones to space applications. However, their industrial scale implementation still requires additional understanding of several complex phenomena, such as corrosion, degradation, and fatigue behaviour, which may affect final system performance. This study focuses on the corrosive behaviour of wires that perform as a high-voltage electrode subject to DC positive corona discharge in atmospheric air. The experiments demonstrate that the non-thermal plasma process promotes the growth of the oxidative films and modifies the physicochemical properties of the materials chosen as corona electrodes, hence affecting device operation. Surfaces exposed to this non-thermal plasma are electrically characterized by negative exponential decay of time-depend power and analysed with SEM. Implications on performance are analysed and discussed.
Application of polymer-coated Macadamia integrifolia nutshell biomass impregnated with palladium for chromium(VI) remediation
Authors: Moyo Malvin , Modise Sekomeng Johannes , Pakade Vusumzi Emmanuel
Published: December 2021

Freely suspended and porous basket restrained granules of palladium nanoparticles supported on polymer-grafted Macadamia nutshell biomass (Pd@Polym-MNS) composite were used for the treatment chromium(VI)-containing water. In the presence of formic acid, the Pd@Polym-MNS demonstrated its activity in the adsorption-reduction-based conversion of noxious chromium(VI) to less toxic chromium(III) with a low activation energy of 13.4 kJ mol–1, ΔH0 (+ 10.8 kJ mol–1), ΔS0 (−270.0 J mol–1 K–1), and ΔG0 (+ 91.3 to + 98.0 kJ mol–1) indicated the exothermic, endergonic and non-spontaneous nature of the catalytic redox reaction. In addition to facilitating easy recovery, rinsing, and reuse, restraining the Pd@Polym-MNS in the basket reactor helped maintain the integrity of the catalysts by preventing violent collisions of suspended granules with the mixing apparatus and the walls of the reaction vessel. Whereas the pseudo-first-order rate constant was recorded as 0.157 min–1 upon initial use, values of the mean and relative standard deviation for the second, third and fourth consecutive uses were found to be 0.219 min–1 and 1.3%, respectively. According to a response surface methodological approach to batch experimentation, the initial concentration of chromium(VI) and catalyst dosage had the greatest impact on the redox reaction rate, accounting for 85.7% and 11.6% of the variability in the value of the pseudo-first-order rate constant, respectively. Mutually beneficial effects of the combinations of high formic acid and low chromium(VI) concentration, high temperature and catalyst dosage as well as high formic acid and catalyst dosage were recorded.