bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tiltrotor Acoustic Data Acquisition and Analysis
Authors: Marano A. D. , Polito T. , Guida M. , Barbarino M. , Belardo M. , Perazzolo A. , Marulo F.
Published: February 2021

Pressure load measurements in operative conditions represent a fundamental parameter for improving the knowledge of the in-flight forcing generation and transmission. Furthermore, it is a fundamental step for assessing the validity and confidence of numerical methods able to predict such pressure loads, usually generated by propulsion and turbulent boundary layer. The experimental in-flight measurements and analysis and the correlation with the numerical methods are activities required as a starting point for studying the transmission mechanism through the fuselage which is responsible for the vibration and noise level which can be measured inside and for identifying potential solutions for their mitigation. The in-flight measurements have been carried out on a Leonardo Helicopter tiltrotor with the main goals to perform the validation of an experimental setup in a fully new environment and the assessment of a data analysis procedure according to the objectives of the Clean Sky 2 Fast Rotorcraft Project T-WING (CS2, Clean Sky 2 joint undertaking third amended bi-annual work plan and budget, 2018–2019).
The Road to Monetary Union
Authors: Pomfret Richard
Published: February 2021

The Road to Monetary Union analyses in non-technical language the process leading to adoption of a common currency for the European Union. The monetary union process involved different issues at different times and the contemporary global background mattered. The Element explains why monetary union was attempted and failed in the 1970s, and why the process was restarted in 1979, accelerated after 1992 and completed for a core group of EU members in 1999. It analyzes connections between eurozone membership and Greece's sovereign debt crisis. It concludes with analysis of how the eurozone works today and with discussion of its prospects for the 2020s. The approach is primarily economic, while acknowledging the role of politics (timing) and history (path dependence). A theme is to challenge simplistic ideas (e.g. that the euro has failed) with fuller analysis of competing pressures to shape the nature of monetary union.
Mobilizing Victimhood: Situating the Victim in Canadian Conservatism
Authors: Gordon Kelly
Published: February 2021

This article offers an examination of the discursive significance of the “victim” in the Conservative Party of Canada through a critical discourse analysis of two key pieces of legislation (Bill C-10 and Bill C-36) tabled by the Harper Conservative government. The central argument contends that while all populist arguments may be a form of victim argument, not all conservative victim arguments are populist—particularly ones directed at issues related to women and gender equality. The article finds that, perhaps due to the reactive nature of conservative ideology, conservative politicians in Canada adopt an “ambidextrous” approach to victims—mobilizing two distinct and, at times, contrasting sets of arguments. The article concludes by proposing two possible explanations for this ambidexterity, one stemming from the literature on organizational management and the other from theorizations of the reactive nature of conservative ideology.
On quasisymmetric plasma equilibria sustained by small force
Authors: Constantin Peter , Drivas Theodore D. , Ginsberg Daniel
Published: February 2021

We construct smooth, non-symmetric plasma equilibria which possess closed, nested flux surfaces and solve the magnetohydrostatic (steady three-dimensional incompressible Euler) equations with a small force. The solutions are also ‘nearly’ quasisymmetric. The primary idea is, given a desired quasisymmetry direction$\xi$, to change the smooth structure on space so that the vector field$\xi$is Killing for the new metric and construct$\xi$–symmetric solutions of the magnetohydrostatic equations on that background by solving a generalized Grad–Shafranov equation. If$\xi$is close to a symmetry of Euclidean space, then these are solutions on flat space up to a small forcing.
A HYDRODYNAMICAL HOMOTOPY CO-MOMENTUM MAP AND A MULTISYMPLECTIC INTERPRETATION OF HIGHER-ORDER LINKING NUMBERS
Authors: MITI ANTONIO MICHELE , SPERA MAURO
Published: February 2021

In this paper a homotopy co-momentum map (à la Callies, Frégier, Rogers and Zambon) transgressing to the standard hydrodynamical co-momentum map of Arnol’d, Marsden, Weinstein and others is constructed and then generalized to a special class of Riemannian manifolds. Also, a covariant phase space interpretation of the coadjoint orbits associated to the Euler evolution for perfect fluids, and in particular of Brylinski’s manifold of smooth oriented knots, is discussed. As an application of the above homotopy co-momentum map, a reinterpretation of the (Massey) higher-order linking numbers in terms of conserved quantities within the multisymplectic framework is provided and knot-theoretic analogues of first integrals in involution are determined.
Magmatic Processes at Snæfell Volcano, Iceland, Constrained by Zircon Ages, Isotopes, and Trace Elements
Authors: Banik Tenley J. , Carley Tamara L. , Coble Matthew A. , Hanchar John M. , Dodd Justin P. , Casale Gabriele M. , McGuire Sean P.
Published: February 2021

We present the first zircon‐based U‐Pb geochronology, trace element concentrations, and O and Hf isotope compositions for Snæfell, an off‐rift volcano in eastern Iceland. These data provide constraints on the longevity and petrogenetic conditions of the Snæfell magmatic system. U‐Pb zircon ages range from 545 ± 59 to 266 ± 16 ka (2SE), but differences between grain core and mantle ages within each sample reveal zircon residence times of 100–200 kyr—far longer than observed at other Neovolcanic systems in Iceland. Zircon δ18O is restricted to ∼3.5–4‰, and zircon εHf ranges ∼+13 to ∼+17, which is substantially more radiogenic than Snæfell basalts. This combined O and Hf isotopic perspective suggests rhyolite petrogenesis at Snæfell can be attributed to fractional crystallization of mantle‐derived basaltic magmas with limited influence of pre‐existing crustal material. Trace element evidence further characterizes the magmatic source material: Sc/Yb <∼0.01 suggests an amphibole‐free petrogenetic environment, and Ti concentrations in zircon <5 ppm suggest a cool, near‐solidus, crystallization environment for the majority of the zircon's pre‐eruptive history, with elevated Ti in zircon surfaces suggesting a late thermal perturbation, perhaps a mafic input that remobilized (to the point of eruption triggering) near‐solidus magmas. These zircon‐based conclusions are broadly consistent with previous interpretations of rhyolite petrogenesis conditions at Snæfell but provide a multi‐faceted perspective with more detailed resolution of source materials, magma generating processes, system longevity, and pre‐eruptive conditions.
Plasma androgens and the presence and course of depression in a large cohort of women
Authors: de Wit Anouk E. , Giltay Erik J. , de Boer Marrit K. , Bosker Fokko J. , Cohn Aviva Y. , Nolen Willem A. , Kaiser Ursula B. , Joffe Hadine , Penninx Brenda W.J.H. , Schoevers Robert A.
Published: February 2021

Major depressive disorder (MDD) has a higher prevalence in women with supraphysiologic androgen levels. Whether there is also an association between depression and androgen levels in the physiological range, is unknown. This study examined if women with current MDD have higher androgen levels compared to women who have never had MDD, and if androgen levels are associated with onset and remission of MDD. In 1659 women (513 current MDD, 754 remitted MDD, and 392 never MDD), baseline plasma levels of total testosterone, 5α-dihydrotestosterone, and androstenedione were determined with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) with radioimmunoassays. Free testosterone was calculated. MDD status was assessed at baseline, and at 2 and 4 years follow-up. Women were aged between 18 and 65 years (mean age 41) with total testosterone levels in the physiological range (geometric mean 0.72 nmol/L [95% CI 0.27–1.93]). After adjusting for covariates and multiple testing, women with current MDD had a higher mean free testosterone than women who never had MDD (adjusted geometric mean 8.50 vs. 7.55 pmol/L, p = 0.0005), but this difference was not large enough to be considered clinically meaningful as it was consistent with statistical equivalence. Levels of other androgens and SHBG did not differ and were also statistically equivalent between the groups. None of the androgens or SHBG levels predicted onset or remission of MDD. Our findings support the idea that plasma androgens within the physiological range have no or only limited effects on depressive disorders in women.
Pressure-engineered optical properties and emergent superconductivity in chalcopyrite semiconductor ZnSiP2
Authors: Yuan Yifang , Zhu Xiangde , Zhou Yonghui , Chen Xuliang , An Chao , Zhou Ying , Zhang Ranran , Gu Chuanchuan , Zhang Lili , Li Xinjian , Yang Zhaorong
Published: February 2021

Chalcopyrite II-IV-V2 semiconductors are promising materials in nonlinear optical, optoelectronic, and photovoltaic applications. In this work, pressure-tailored optical properties as well as pressure-driven emergent superconductivity in chalcopyrite ZnSiP2 are reported via photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and electrical transport experiments. During compression, the PL peak energy exhibits a plateau between 1.4 and 8.7 GPa, which is accompanied by a piezochromic transition and correlated with the progressive development of cation disorder. Upon further compression across a phase transition from tetragonal to cubic rock-salt structure, superconductivity with a critical temperature Tc ~ 8.2 K emerges immediately. Tc decreases in the range of 24.6–37.1 GPa but inversely increases at higher pressures, thereby exhibiting an unusual V-shaped superconducting phase diagram. These findings present vivid structure–property relationships, which not only offer important clues to optimize the optical and electronic properties, but also provide a new way to use compression to switch between different functionalities.
Semiconductor-less vertical transistor with ION/IOFF of 106
Authors: Lee Jun-Ho , Shin Dong Hoon , Yang Heejun , Jeong Nae Bong , Park Do-Hyun , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Kim Eunah , Lee Sang Wook , Jhang Sung Ho , Park Bae Ho , Kuk Young , Chung Hyun-Jong
Published: February 2021

Semiconductors have long been perceived as a prerequisite for solid-state transistors. Although switching principles for nanometer-scale devices have emerged based on the deployment of two-dimensional (2D) van der Waals heterostructures, tunneling and ballistic currents through short channels are difficult to control, and semiconducting channel materials remain indispensable for practical switching. In this study, we report a semiconductor-less solid-state electronic device that exhibits an industry-applicable switching of the ballistic current. This device modulates the field emission barrier height across the graphene-hexagonal boron nitride interface with ION/IOFF of 106 obtained from the transfer curves and adjustable intrinsic gain up to 4, and exhibits unprecedented current stability in temperature range of 15–400 K. The vertical device operation can be optimized with the capacitive coupling in the device geometry. The semiconductor-less switching resolves the long-standing issue of temperature-dependent device performance, thereby extending the potential of 2D van der Waals devices to applications in extreme environments.
Meta-analyses of visceral versus non-visceral metastatic hormone receptor-positive breast cancer treated by endocrine monotherapies
Authors: Robertson John F. R. , Di Leo Angelo , Johnston Stephen , Chia Stephen , Bliss Judith M. , Paridaens Robert J. , Lichfield Jasmine , Bradbury Ian , Campbell Christine
Published: February 2021

Endocrine therapy (ET) is recommended as first-line therapy for the majority of patients with hormone receptor-positive (HR+), human epidermal growth factor 2-negative advanced breast cancer (ABC); however, the efficacy of ET in patients with visceral metastases (VM) versus patients whose disease is limited to non-visceral metastases (non-VM) is debated. Meta-analyses including available data from randomised controlled trials of first- and second-line endocrine monotherapies for patients with HR+ ABC were performed to address this question. In one and two-stage meta-analyses, progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), clinical benefit rate (CBR) and duration of clinical benefit (DoCB) outcomes were analysed. In the first-line meta-analysis (seven trials; n = 1988) tamoxifen and fulvestrant significantly improved PFS, OS and CBR for patients with non-VM versus those whose disease included VM. The most substantial hazard ratios were observed for fulvestrant 500 mg; 0.56 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.45−0.70) and 0.55 (95% CI 0.42−0.72) for PFS and OS, respectively. In the second-line meta-analysis (seven trials; n = 2324), all ET combined was more effective (in terms of PFS, OS and DoCB) for non-VM versus VM. In both meta-analyses, patients with non-liver VM had better clinical outcomes than patients with liver VM for all types of ET. Patients whose disease included non-VM sites had better clinical outcomes with endocrine monotherapy compared with patients whose disease included VM. These findings may facilitate better informed treatment decision-making.
Vacancy defect control of colossal thermopower in FeSb2
Authors: Du Qianheng , Wu Lijun , Cao Huibo , Kang Chang-Jong , Nelson Christie , Pascut Gheorghe Lucian , Besara Tiglet , Siegrist Theo , Haule Kristjan , Kotliar Gabriel , Zaliznyak Igor , Zhu Yimei , Petrovic Cedomir
Published: February 2021

Iron diantimonide is a material with the highest known thermoelectric power. By combining scanning transmission electron microscopic study with electronic transport neutron, X-ray scattering, and first principle calculation, we identify atomic defects that control colossal thermopower magnitude and nanoprecipitate clusters with Sb vacancy ordering, which induce additional phonon scattering and substantially reduce thermal conductivity. Defects are found to cause rather weak but important monoclinic distortion of the unit cell Pnnm → Pm. The absence of Sb along [010] for high defect concentration forms conducting path due to Fe d orbital overlap. The connection between atomic defect anisotropy and colossal thermopower in FeSb2 paves the way for the understanding and tailoring of giant thermopower in related materials.
One-year randomized trial comparing virtual reality-assisted therapy to cognitive–behavioral therapy for patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia
Authors: Dellazizzo Laura , Potvin Stéphane , Phraxayavong Kingsada , Dumais Alexandre
Published: February 2021

The gold-standard cognitive–behavioral therapy (CBT) for psychosis offers at best modest effects. With advances in technology, virtual reality (VR) therapies for auditory verbal hallucinations (AVH), such as AVATAR therapy (AT) and VR-assisted therapy (VRT), are amid a new wave of relational approaches that may heighten effects. Prior trials have shown greater effects of these therapies on AVH up to a 24-week follow-up. However, no trial has compared them to a recommended active treatment with a 1-year follow-up. We performed a pilot randomized comparative trial evaluating the short- and long-term efficacy of VRT over CBT for patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Patients were randomized to VRT (n = 37) or CBT (n = 37). Clinical assessments were administered before and after each intervention and at follow-up periods up to 12 months. Between and within-group changes in psychiatric symptoms were assessed using linear mixed-effects models. Short-term findings showed that both interventions produced significant improvements in AVH severity and depressive symptoms. Although results did not show a statistically significant superiority of VRT over CBT for AVH, VRT did achieve larger effects particularly on overall AVH (d = 1.080 for VRT and d = 0.555 for CBT). Furthermore, results suggested a superiority of VRT over CBT on affective symptoms. VRT also showed significant results on persecutory beliefs and quality of life. Effects were maintained up to the 1-year follow-up. VRT highlights the future of patient-tailored approaches that may show benefits over generic CBT for voices. A fully powered single-blind randomized controlled trial comparing VRT to CBT is underway.
Insights on the deep carbon cycle from the electrical conductivity of carbon-bearing aqueous fluids
Authors: Manthilake Geeth , Mookherjee Mainak , Miyajima Nobuyoshi
Published: February 2021

The dehydration and decarbonation in the subducting slab are intricately related and the knowledge of the physical properties of the resulting C–H–O fluid is crucial to interpret the petrological, geochemical, and geophysical processes associated with subduction zones. In this study, we investigate the C–H–O fluid released during the progressive devolatilization of carbonate-bearing serpentine-polymorph chrysotile, with in situ electrical conductivity measurements at high pressures and temperatures. The C–H–O fluid produced by carbonated chrysotile exhibits high electrical conductivity compared to carbon-free aqueous fluids and can be an excellent indicator of the migration of carbon in subduction zones. The crystallization of diamond and graphite indicates that the oxidized C–H–O fluids are responsible for the recycling of carbon in the wedge mantle. The carbonate and chrysotile bearing assemblages stabilize dolomite during the devolatilization process. This unique dolomite forming mechanism in chrysotile in subduction slabs may facilitate the transport of carbon into the deep mantle.
Photosynthetic parameters of a sedge-grass marsh as a big-leaf: effect of plant species composition
Authors: Mejdová Markéta , Dušek Jiří , Foltýnová Lenka , Macálková Lenka , Čížková Hana
Published: February 2021

The study estimates the parameters of the photosynthesis–irradiance relationship (PN/I) of a sedge-grass marsh (Czech Republic, Europe), represented as an active “green” surface—a hypothetical “big-leaf”. Photosynthetic parameters of the “big-leaf” are based on in situ measurements of the leaf PN/I curves of the dominant plant species. The non-rectangular hyperbola was selected as the best model for fitting the PN/I relationships. The plant species had different parameters of this relationship. The highest light-saturated rate of photosynthesis (Asat) was recorded for Glyceria maxima and Acorus calamus followed by Carex acuta and Phalaris arundinacea. The lowest Asat was recorded for Calamagrostis canescens. The parameters of the PN/I relationship were calculated also for different growth periods. The highest Asat was calculated for the spring period followed by the summer and autumn periods. The effect of the species composition of the local plant community on the photosynthetic parameters of the “big-leaf” was addressed by introducing both real (recorded) and hypothetical species compositions corresponding to “wet” and “dry” hydrological conditions. We can conclude that the species composition (or diversity) is essential for reaching a high Asat of the “big-leaf ”representing the sedge-grass marsh in different growth periods.
A chip-less and battery-less subharmonic tag for wireless sensing with parametrically enhanced sensitivity and dynamic range
Authors: Hussein Hussein M. E. , Rinaldi Matteo , Onabajo Marvin , Cassella Cristian
Published: February 2021

Massive deployments of wireless sensor nodes (WSNs) that continuously detect physical, biological or chemical parameters are needed to truly benefit from the unprecedented possibilities opened by the Internet-of-Things (IoT). Just recently, new sensors with higher sensitivities have been demonstrated by leveraging advanced on-chip designs and microfabrication processes. Yet, WSNs using such sensors require energy to transmit the sensed information. Consequently, they either contain batteries that need to be periodically replaced or energy harvesting circuits whose low efficiencies prevent a frequent and continuous sensing and impact the maximum range of communication. Here, we report a new chip-less and battery-less tag-based WSN that fundamentally breaks any previous paradigm. This WSN, formed by off-the-shelf lumped components on a printed substrate, can sense and transmit information without any need of supplied or harvested DC power, while enabling full-duplex transceiver designs for interrogating nodes rendering them immune to their own self-interference. Also, even though the reported WSN does not require any advanced and expensive manufacturing, its unique parametric dynamical behavior enables extraordinary sensitivities and dynamic ranges that can even surpass those achieved by on-chip sensors. The operation and performance of the first implementation of this new WSN are reported. This device operates in the Ultra-High-Frequency range and is capable to passively and continuously detect temperature changes remotely from an interrogating node.
Critical evaluation of short, long, and hybrid assembly for contextual analysis of antibiotic resistance genes in complex environmental metagenomes
Authors: Brown Connor L. , Keenum Ishi M. , Dai Dongjuan , Zhang Liqing , Vikesland Peter J. , Pruden Amy
Published: February 2021

In the fight to limit the global spread of antibiotic resistance, the assembly of environmental metagenomes has the potential to provide rich contextual information (e.g., taxonomic hosts, carriage on mobile genetic elements) about antibiotic resistance genes (ARG) in the environment. However, computational challenges associated with assembly can impact the accuracy of downstream analyses. This work critically evaluates the impact of assembly leveraging short reads, nanopore MinION long-reads, and a combination of the two (hybrid) on ARG contextualization for ten environmental metagenomes using seven prominent assemblers (IDBA-UD, MEGAHIT, Canu, Flye, Opera-MS, metaSpades and HybridSpades). While short-read and hybrid assemblies produced similar patterns of ARG contextualization, raw or assembled long nanopore reads produced distinct patterns. Based on an in-silico spike-in experiment using real and simulated reads, we show that low to intermediate coverage species are more likely to be incorporated into chimeric contigs across all assemblers and sequencing technologies, while more abundant species produce assemblies with a greater frequency of inversions and insertion/deletions (indels). In sum, our analyses support hybrid assembly as a valuable technique for boosting the reliability and accuracy of assembly-based analyses of ARGs and neighboring genes at environmentally-relevant coverages, provided that sufficient short-read sequencing depth is achieved.
Neurocognitive status and risk of mortality among people living with human immunodeficiency virus: an 18-year retrospective cohort study
Authors: Naveed Zaeema , Fox Howard S. , Wichman Christopher S. , Alam Morshed , May Pamela , Arcari Christine M. , Meza Jane , Totusek Steven , Baccaglini Lorena
Published: February 2021

HIV-related neurocognitive impairment (NCI) may increase the risk of death. However, a survival disadvantage for patients with NCI has not been well studied in the post-combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) era. Specifically, limited research has been conducted considering the reversible nature and variable progression of the impairment and this area demands further evaluation. We performed multivariable Cox proportional hazards modeling to assess the association between baseline NCI (global T scores) and mortality. A joint modeling approach was then used to model the trajectory of global neurocognitive functioning over time and the association between neurocognitive trajectory and mortality. Among the National NeuroAIDS Tissue Consortium’s (NNTC) HIV-infected participants, we found a strong negative association between NCI and mortality in the older age groups (e.g., at age = 55, HR = 0.79; 95% CI 0.64–0.99). Three neurocognitive sub-domains (abstraction and executive functioning, speed of information processing, and motor) had the strongest negative association with mortality. Joint modelling indicated a 33% lower hazard for every 10-unit increase in global T scores (HR = 0.67; 95% CI 0.56–0.80). The study identified older HIV-infected individuals with NCI as a group needing special attention for the longevity of life. The study has considerable prognostic utility by not only predicting mortality hazard, but also future cognitive status.
Investigation of skin microbiota reveals Mycobacterium ulcerans-Aspergillus sp. trans-kingdom communication
Authors: Hammoudi N. , Cassagne C. , Million M. , Ranque S. , Kabore O. , Drancourt M. , Zingue D. , Bouam A.
Published: February 2021

Mycobacterium ulcerans secrete a series of non-ribosomal-encoded toxins known as mycolactones that are responsible for causing a disabling ulceration of the skin and subcutaneous tissues named Buruli ulcer. The disease is the sole non-contagion among the three most common mycobacterial diseases in humans. Direct contact with contaminated wetlands is a risk factor for Buruli ulcer, responsible for M. ulcerans skin carriage before transcutaneous inoculation with this opportunistic pathogen. In this study, we analysed the bacterial and fungal skin microbiota in individuals exposed to M. ulcerans in Burkina Faso. We showed that M. ulcerans-specific DNA sequences were detected on the unbreached skin of 6/52 (11.5%) asymptomatic farmers living in Sindou versus 0/52 (0%) of those living in the non-endemic region of Tenkodogo. Then, we cultured the skin microbiota of asymptomatic M. ulcerans carriers and negative control individuals, all living in the region of Sindou. A total of 84 different bacterial and fungal species were isolated, 21 from M. ulcerans-negative skin samples, 31 from M. ulcerans-positive samples and 32 from both. More specifically, Actinobacteria, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus were significantly associated with M. ulcerans skin carriage. We further observed that in vitro, mycolactones induced spore germination of A. flavus, attracting the fungal network. These unprecedented observations suggest that interactions with fungi may modulate the outcome of M. ulcerans skin carriage, opening new venues to the understanding of Buruli ulcer pathology, prophylaxis and treatment of this still neglected tropical infection.
Ingestion of probiotic (Lactobacillus helveticus and Bifidobacterium longum) alters intestinal microbial structure and behavioral expression following social defeat stress
Authors: Partrick Katherine A. , Rosenhauer Anna M. , Auger Jérémie , Arnold Amanda R. , Ronczkowski Nicole M. , Jackson Lanaya M. , Lord Magen N. , Abdulla Sara M. , Chassaing Benoit , Huhman Kim L.
Published: February 2021

Social stress exacerbates anxious and depressive behaviors in humans. Similarly, anxiety- and depressive-like behaviors are triggered by social stress in a variety of non-human animals. Here, we tested whether oral administration of the putative anxiolytic probiotic strains Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 and Bifidobacterium longum R0175 reduces the striking increase in anxiety-like behavior and changes in gut microbiota observed following social defeat stress in Syrian hamsters. We administered the probiotic at two different doses for 21 days, and 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing revealed a shift in microbial structure following probiotic administration at both doses, independently of stress. Probiotic administration at either dose increased anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10 compared to placebo. Surprisingly, probiotic administration at the low dose, equivalent to the one used in humans, significantly increased social avoidance and decreased social interaction. This behavioral change was associated with a reduction in microbial richness in this group. Together, these results demonstrate that probiotic administration alters gut microbial composition and may promote an anti-inflammatory profile but that these changes may not promote reductions in behavioral responses to social stress.
Inclusion of genetic variants in an ensemble of gradient boosting decision trees does not improve the prediction of citalopram treatment response
Authors: Shumake Jason , Mallard Travis T. , McGeary John E. , Beevers Christopher G.
Published: February 2021

Identifying in advance who is unlikely to respond to a specific antidepressant treatment is crucial to precision medicine efforts. The current work leverages genome-wide genetic variation and machine learning to predict response to the antidepressant citalopram using data from the Sequenced Treatment Alternatives to Relieve Depression (STAR*D) trial (n = 1257 with both valid genomic and outcome data). A confirmatory approach selected 11 SNPs previously reported to predict response to escitalopram in a sample different from the current study. A novel exploratory approach selected SNPs from across the genome using nested cross-validation with elastic net logistic regression with a predominantly lasso penalty (alpha = 0.99). SNPs from each approach were combined with baseline clinical predictors and treatment response outcomes were predicted using a stacked ensemble of gradient boosting decision trees. Using pre-treatment clinical and symptom predictors only, out-of-fold prediction of a novel treatment response definition based on STAR*D treatment guidelines was acceptable, AUC = .659, 95% CI [0.629, 0.689]. The inclusion of SNPs using confirmatory or exploratory selection methods did not improve the out-of-fold prediction of treatment response (AUCs were .662, 95% CI [0.632, 0.692] and .655, 95% CI [0.625, 0.685], respectively). A similar pattern of results were observed for the secondary outcomes of the presence or absence of distressing side effects regardless of treatment response and achieving remission or satisfactory partial response, assuming medication tolerance. In the current study, incorporating SNP variation into prognostic models did not enhance the prediction of citalopram response in the STAR*D sample.
Phylogenomics reveals viral sources, transmission, and potential superinfection in early-stage COVID-19 patients in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Sjaarda Calvin P. , Rustom Nazneen , Evans Gerald A. , Huang David , Perez-Patrigeon Santiago , Hudson Melissa L. , Wong Henry , Sun Zhengxin , Guan T. Hugh , Ayub Muhammad , Soares Claudio N. , Colautti Robert I. , Sheth Prameet M.
Published: February 2021

The emergence and rapid global spread of SARS-CoV-2 demonstrates the importance of infectious disease surveillance, particularly during the early stages. Viral genomes can provide key insights into transmission chains and pathogenicity. Nasopharyngeal swabs were obtained from thirty-two of the first SARS-CoV-2 positive cases (March 18–30) in Kingston Ontario, Canada. Viral genomes were sequenced using Ion Torrent (n = 24) and MinION (n = 27) sequencing platforms. SARS-CoV-2 genomes carried forty-six polymorphic sites including two missense and three synonymous variants in the spike protein gene. The D614G point mutation was the predominate viral strain in our cohort (92.6%). A heterozygous variant (C9994A) was detected by both sequencing platforms but filtered by the ARTIC network bioinformatic pipeline suggesting that heterozygous variants may be underreported in the SARS-CoV-2 literature. Phylogenetic analysis with 87,738 genomes in the GISAID database identified global origins and transmission events including multiple, international introductions as well as community spread. Reported travel history validated viral introduction and transmission inferred by phylogenetic analysis. Molecular epidemiology and evolutionary phylogenetics may complement contact tracing and help reconstruct transmission chains of emerging diseases. Earlier detection and screening in this way could improve the effectiveness of regional public health interventions to limit future pandemics.
Chitosan increases Pinus pinaster tolerance to the pinewood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus) by promoting plant antioxidative metabolism
Authors: Nunes da Silva Marta , Santos Carla S. , Cruz Ana , López-Villamor Adrián , Vasconcelos Marta W.
Published: February 2021

The pine wilt disease (PWD), for which no effective treatment is available at the moment, is a constant threat to Pinus spp. plantations worldwide, being responsible for significant economic and environmental losses every year. It has been demonstrated that elicitation with chitosan increases plant tolerance to the pinewood nematode (PWN) Bursaphelenchus xylophilus, the causal agent of the PWD, but the biochemical and genetic aspects underlying this response have not been explored. To understand the influence of chitosan in Pinus pinaster tolerance against PWN, a low-molecular-weight (327 kDa) chitosan was applied to mock- and PWN-inoculated plants. Nematode population, malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase, carotenoids, anthocyanins, phenolic compounds, lignin and gene expression related to oxidative stress (thioredoxin 1, TRX) and plant defence (defensin, DEF, and a-farnesene synthase, AFS), were analysed at 1, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days post-inoculation (dpi). At 28 dpi, PWN-infected plants elicited with chitosan showed a sixfold lower nematode population when compared to non-elicited plants. Higher levels of MDA, catalase, carotenoids, anthocyanins, phenolic compounds, and lignin were detected in chitosan-elicited plants following infection. The expression levels of DEF gene were higher in elicited plants, while TRX and AFS expression was lower, possibly due to the disease containment-effect of chitosan. Combined, we conclude that chitosan induces pine defences against PWD via modulation of metabolic and transcriptomic mechanisms related with plant antioxidant system.
Midgut development in rat embryos using microcomputed tomography
Authors: Ginzel Marco , Martynov Illya , Haak Rainer , Lacher Martin , Kluth Dietrich
Published: February 2021

The development of the mammalian gut was first described more than a century ago. Since then, it has been believed that a series of highly orchestrated developmental processes occur before the intestine achieves its final formation. The key steps include the formation of the umbilicus, the so-called “physiological herniation” of the midgut into the umbilical cord, an intestinal “rotation”, and the “return of the gut” into the abdominal cavity. However, this sequence of events is predominantly based on histological sections of dissected embryos, a 2D technique with methodological limitations. For a better understanding of spatial relationships in the embryo, we utilized microcomputed tomography (µCT), a nondestructive 3D imaging method. Here, we show the detailed processes and mechanisms of intestinal development in rat embryos, including the development of the umbilicus, the formation of loops inside the umbilical coelom, and the subsequent shift of these loops into the abdominal cavity. Our 3D datasets of developing intestines will substantially advance the understanding of normal mammalian midgut embryology and offer new possibilities to reveal unknown mechanisms in the pathogenesis of congenital disorders.
Mitochondrial ubiquitin ligase alleviates Alzheimer’s disease pathology via blocking the toxic amyloid-β oligomer generation
Authors: Takeda Keisuke , Uda Aoi , Mitsubori Mikihiro , Nagashima Shun , Iwasaki Hiroko , Ito Naoki , Shiiba Isshin , Ishido Satoshi , Matsuoka Masaaki , Inatome Ryoko , Yanagi Shigeru
Published: February 2021

Mitochondrial pathophysiology is implicated in the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). An integrative database of gene dysregulation suggests that the mitochondrial ubiquitin ligase MITOL/MARCH5, a fine-tuner of mitochondrial dynamics and functions, is downregulated in patients with AD. Here, we report that the perturbation of mitochondrial dynamics by MITOL deletion triggers mitochondrial impairments and exacerbates cognitive decline in a mouse model with AD-related Aβ pathology. Notably, MITOL deletion in the brain enhanced the seeding effect of Aβ fibrils, but not the spontaneous formation of Aβ fibrils and plaques, leading to excessive secondary generation of toxic and dispersible Aβ oligomers. Consistent with this, MITOL-deficient mice with Aβ etiology exhibited worsening cognitive decline depending on Aβ oligomers rather than Aβ plaques themselves. Our findings suggest that alteration in mitochondrial morphology might be a key factor in AD due to directing the production of Aβ form, oligomers or plaques, responsible for disease development.
Fragmentation study of tryptophan-derived metabolites induced by electrospray ionization mass spectrometry for highly sensitive analysis
Authors: Asakawa Daiki , Mizuno Hajime , Sugiyama Eiji , Todoroki Kenichiro
Published: February 2021

ESI of tryptophan-derived metabolites produced an intense signal of fragment ion with a spiro[cyclopropane-indolium] backbone. The use of corresponding fragment ions for the precursor of MRM transitions could improve the detection limit.
Electrocatalytic performance of tyrosinase detection in Penaeus vannamei based on a [(PSS/PPy)(P2Mo18/PPy)5] multilayer composite film modified electrode
Authors: Ding Xiao-Mei , Cai Si-Xue , Wang Li , Zhang Yu-Cang
Published: February 2021

The schematic diagram of [(PSS/PPy)(P2Mo18/PPy)5] multilayer composite film modified electrode.
Di-tert-butyldiphosphatetrahedrane as a building block for phosphaalkenes and phosphirenes
Authors: Hierlmeier Gabriele , Uttendorfer Maria K. , Wolf Robert
Published: February 2021

Reactions of di-tert-butyldiphosphatetrahedrane (tBuCP)2 with various carbenes result in P–P or P–C bond cleavage to afford phosphaalkenes and phosphirenes. The results demonstrate the distinct reactivity of (tBuCP)2 compared to its monomer tBuCP.
Molecular features toward high photo-CIDNP hyperpolariztion explored through the oxidocyclization of tryptophan
Authors: Torres Felix , Sobol Alexander , Greenwald Jason , Renn Alois , Morozova Olga , Yurkovskaya Alexandra , Riek Roland
Published: February 2021

Photo-chemically induced nuclear polarization yields to NMR signal-to-noise enhancement and can be tuned by chemical modification of one of the radical-pair partners.
Structural, magnetic, and magnetocaloric properties of the multiferroic host double perovskite compound Pr2FeCrO6
Authors: Mazumdar Dipak , Das I.
Published: February 2021

Three different magnetic phase alterations, viz. canted antiferromagnetism, spin-reorientation, and C-type antiferromagnetism, and the magnetocaloric properties of the disordered Pr2FeCrO6 double perovskite have been reported in this article.
A review on key design and operational parameters to optimize and develop hydrothermal liquefaction of biomass for biorefinery applications
Authors: Basar Ibrahim Alper , Liu Huan , Carrere Helene , Trably Eric , Eskicioglu Cigdem
Published: February 2021

This paper summarizes the existing hydrothermal liquefaction process literature and reveals the effect of process parameters on the bio-crude yield.
Small molecule drug conjugates (SMDCs): an emerging strategy for anticancer drug design and discovery
Authors: Patel Tarun Kumar , Adhikari Nilanjan , Amin Sk. Abdul , Biswas Swati , Jha Tarun , Ghosh Balaram
Published: February 2021

Mechanisms of how SMDCs work. Small molecule drugs are conjugated with the targeted ligand using pH sensitive linkers which allow the drug molecule to get released at lower lysosomal pH. It helps to accumulate the chemotherapeutic agents to be localized in the tumor environment upon cleaving of the pH-labile bonds.
Start-up stage with improved resolution for an electric field-assisted fused deposition
Authors: Ruihan Xu , Weijie Bao , Zhihai Wang , Yaohong Wang
Published: February 2021

Electric field-assisted fused deposition modeling (E-FDM) is a promising technique in the field of 3D printing.
Nanocellulose: a bioadsorbent for chemical contaminant remediation
Authors: Faiz Norrrahim Mohd Nor , Mohd Kasim Noor Azilah , Knight Victor Feizal , Mohamad Misenan Muhammad Syukri , Janudin Nurjahirah , Ahmad Shah Noor Aisyah , Kasim Norherdawati , Wan Yusoff Wan Yusmawati , Mohd Noor Siti Aminah , Jamal Siti Hasnawati , Ong Keat Khim , Zin Wan Yunus Wan Md
Published: February 2021

The adsorption and desorption of contaminants by nanocellulose.
A microfluidic cartridge for fast and accurate diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infections on standard laboratory equipment
Authors: Homann Ana R. , Niebling Laura , Zehnle Steffen , Beutler Markus , Delamotte Lubov , Rothmund Marie-Christine , Czurratis Daniel , Beller Klaus-Dieter , Zengerle Roland , Hoffmann Harald , Paust Nils
Published: February 2021

We present a novel centrifugal microfluidic approach for fast and accurate Tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis based on the use of standard laboratory equipment.
Hydrazone exchange: a viable route for the solid-tethered synthesis of [2]rotaxanes
Authors: Da Silva Rodrigues Rafael , Luis Ena T. , Marshall David L. , McMurtrie John C. , Mullen Kathleen M.
Published: February 2021

Using a hydrazone exchange methodology, resin beads were functionalised with [2]rotaxanes at up to 80% efficiency—higher than using other dynamic or irreversible synthetic approaches to form self-assembled structures on solid supports.
Fast and sensitive diffuse correlation spectroscopy with highly parallelized single photon detection
Authors: Liu Wenhui , Qian Ruobing , Xu Shiqi , Chandra Konda Pavan , Jönsson Joakim , Harfouche Mark , Borycki Dawid , Cooke Colin , Berrocal Edouard , Dai Qionghai , Wang Haoqian , Horstmeyer Roarke
Published: February 2021

Diffuse correlation spectroscopy (DCS) is a well-established method that measures rapid changes in scattered coherent light to identify blood flow and functional dynamics within a tissue. While its sensitivity to minute scatterer displacements leads to a number of unique advantages, conventional DCS systems become photon-limited when attempting to probe deep into the tissue, which leads to long measurement windows (∽1 sec). Here, we present a high-sensitivity DCS system with 1024 parallel detection channels integrated within a single-photon avalanche diode array and demonstrate the ability to detect mm-scale perturbations up to 1 cm deep within a tissue-like phantom at up to a 33 Hz sampling rate. We also show that this highly parallelized strategy can measure the human pulse at high fidelity and detect behaviorally induced physiological variations from above the human prefrontal cortex. By greatly improving the detection sensitivity and speed, highly parallelized DCS opens up new experiments for high-speed biological signal measurement.
Application of 50K chip-based genetic map to QTL mapping of stem-related traits in wheat
Authors: Song Pengbo , Wang Xin , Wang Xiaoxiao , Zhou Feng , Xu Xiaowan , Wu Bingjin , Yao Jianxin , Lv Dongyun , Yang Mengyu , Song Xiaopeng , Sun Daojie
Published: February 2021

Stem strength is critical for lodging resistance in wheat. The present study utilised a high-density genetic map generated with a 50K single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chip to map quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for stem-related traits. The analysis involved 198 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from the cross between bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) varieties Xinong1376 and Xiaoyan81. The RILs were planted in randomised complete blocks with two replicates at three locations. The constructed genetic map contained 13571 SNP markers spanning 3605.53 cM across the 21 wheat chromosomes. The genetic and physical positions of SNP markers in 28 linkage groups were approximately the same. Twelve major QTLs related to stem strength were detected for eight traits and were distributed on chromosomes 2D (three QTLs), 3A, 4B, 4D (three QTLs), 5A, 5B, 5D and 6B. Each QTL explained 0.6-34.6% of the phenotypic variation. Taking full advantage of the available resources for fine-mapping of these stable QTLs will benefit molecular marker-assisted breeding and facilitate the dissection of molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying the mechanical properties of the wheat stem.
A single historical substitution drives an increase in acetylcholine receptor complexity
Authors: Emlaw Johnathon R. , Tessier Christian J. G. , McCluskey Gregory D. , McNulty Melissa S. , Sheikh Yusuf , Burkett Kelly M. , Musgaard Maria , daCosta Corrie J. B.
Published: February 2021

Significance

Human muscle-type acetylcholine receptors are heteropentameric ion channels formed from four evolutionarily related subunits, which assemble with a specific stoichiometry and arrangement. It has long been thought that each of the modern-day subunits are required for function. We dispel this notion by first showing that an ancestral β-subunit can replace both the β- and δ-subunits in human acetylcholine receptors. We then identify a single historical amino acid substitution that eliminates the ability of the ancestral β-subunit to functionally replace the human δ-subunit. Our work experimentally demonstrates how acetylcholine receptor subunit complexity could have evolved and uncovers a form of contingency that is unique to heteromeric protein complexes, in which mutations that “lock in” individual subunits determine future evolutionary paths.
Design of A Freight Transport System for Highway Rest Areas
Authors: Wen Hao , Liu Yufeng , Lu Sichao , Fei Su
Published: February 2021

The rest area is an important place for travelers to have a rest. Therefore, it should be replenished with a variety of goods in time. This article introduces a freight transport system for highway rest areas, including conceptual framework, a mathematical model and its algorithm. The model has two objective functions which aim to minimize transport time as well as maximizing the priority value of highway rest areas. To solve this multi-objective optimization problem, a discrete firefly algorithm which was proposed to solve the multi-temperature joint distribution is extended. To validate the performance of the algorithm, simulation experiments are carried out and the experimental results show that the discrete firefly algorithm is effective for the problem.
Air traffic complexity evaluation with novel complexity features and mRMR-XGBoost
Authors: Zhang Minghua , xie Hua , Ge Jiaming , Zhang Dongfang
Published: February 2021

Air traffic complexity evaluation is a critical problem in air traffic system operation, especially for air traffic safety and air traffic controller deployment. Many researches focus on using mathematical modeling or machine learning methods to evaluate air traffic complexity. However, there are still challenges in accurate evaluation, which is affected by lack of effective complexity related features and complicated feature-complexity relationship. Based on the existing complexity features, this paper proposes additional domain features, time-dependent features and data distribution features to construct a novel air traffic complexity feature set. A mRMR method for feature selection is then applied to filter out redundant features. Finally, the filtered feature set and corresponding air traffic complexity level are input into XGBoost model for learning the relationship, so as to achieve high-performance evaluation of air traffic complexity in the face of new air traffic data. The experimental results show that the proposed features are beneficial to the evaluation of air traffic complexity, and the XGBoost model with mRMR method can effectively select the important features and mine the relationships within air traffic complexity data, resulting in an improvement in overall evaluation performance by at least 5% while using less than half of the original number of features.