bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling the panchromatic emission of galaxies with CIGALE
Authors: Boquien M. , Burgarella D. , Roehlly Y. , Buat V. , Ciesla L. , Corre D. , Inoue A. K. , Salas H.
Published: June 2020

Panchromatic modeling is one of the most powerful tools at our disposal to measure reliably the physical properties of galaxies across cosmic times. We present here an entirely new implementation in python of one such tool: CIGALE. Developed along three main design principles: simplicity, modularity, and efficiency, it has proven to be a versatile code that in addition to estimating the physical properties of galaxies (or regions within galaxies), can generate arbitrary sets of theoretical models or be used as a library to build other tools. Among its defining features, it is a truly panchromatic code ranging from the far-ultraviolet to the radio that takes into account numerous physical components (including active nuclei or synchrotron emission), that can fit non-photometric data, handle upper limits, determine photometric redshifts, and even build mock catalogs.
First [NII] 122 μm line detection in a starburst pair at z = 4.7
Authors: Lee Minju M. , Nagao Tohru , De Breuck Carlos
Published: June 2020

We report the first detection of [NII] 122 μm line toward a QSO-SMG pair, BRI 1202-0725, at z = 4.7 using ALMA. Combining with [NII] 205 μm line detection and taking the line ratio of [NII]122/[NII]205, we constrain electron densities of both galaxies. The derived electron densities are ${26_{ - 11}^{ + 12}$ and ${134_{ - 39}^{ + 50}$ cm−3 for the SMG and the QSO, respectively, which are the first measurements for galaxies at z > 4. The electron density of the SMG is comparable to the Galactic plane and the average of local spiral galaxies, while the value for the QSO is comparable to local starbursts and optical-line based measurements for star-forming galaxies at z ∼ 2–3. Considering the similar star-formation rates (SFRs) of ≍ 1000 M⊙ yr−1 for both galaxies, our results suggest a large scatter of electron densities at fixed SFR and caution against using optical lines for dusty starbursts. The details of this report are presented in Lee et al. 2019 (submitted).
Möglichkeiten der kontrastunterstützten Ultraschalldiagnostik bei Erkrankungen des Gastrointestinaltrakts
Authors: Weiss Daniel
Published: June 2020

Zusammenfassung. Die Kontrastsonografie hat sich als zuverlässiges Hilfsmittel in der Diagnostik einiger Erkrankungen des Gastrointestinaltrakts bewährt. Bei Tumoren kann deren Ausdehnung abgeschätzt werden, und oft können entzündliche von neoplastischen Veränderungen abgegrenzt werden. Im oberen Gastrointestinaltrakt kann mittels oraler Kontrastierung die Magen- und Duodenalpassage sowie nach einer allfälligen Stenteinlage dessen Durchgängigkeit überprüft werden. Abszesse lassen sich mit CEUS gut darstellen, und nach Einlage einer Drainage kann deren Lage kontrolliert werden. Beim M. Crohn können Ausdehnung, Entzündungsintensität und Komplikationen wie Fisteln, Abszesse und Stenosen dargestellt werden. Die Abgrenzung entzündlicher von fibrotischen Stenosen erlaubt ein frühzeitiges Zuziehen eines Chirurgen. Eine ischämische Colitis zeigt im Akutstadium eine typische Anflutungskinetik, und im Verlauf kann mittels CEUS die verbesserte Perfusion dokumentiert werden.
Einführung eines «Peer Tutoring» -basierten, Ultraschallkurses – ein Update zum «Blended-Learning»-Basiskurs Sonografie
Authors: Kaymak Deniz , Räschle Nino , Serra Andreas , Hari Roman
Published: June 2020

Zusammenfassung. Mit der Einführung des neuen Schweizer Lernzielkatalogs «PROFILES» wird die Fähigkeit, einfache sonografische Untersuchungen durchzuführen, bereits von Studierenden im Grundstudium gefordert. Durch eine Kollaboration des Berner Instituts für Hausarztmedizin und der SGUM-Sektion «Young Sonographers» wurde der klassische SGUM-Grundkurs des Moduls Abdomens in ein «Peer-Tutoring»-basiertes «Blended-Learning»-Lehrformat umgestaltet, das sich gezielt an Studierende sowie Assistenzärztinnen und -ärzte richtet. Der Basiskurs Sonografie wurde seit Jahresbeginn 2019 sukzessive an mittlerweile vier Schweizer Universitäten durch lokale Untersektionen der Young Sonographers für Studierende eingeführt. Dieser Artikel beschreibt die Implementierung des «Blended-Learning Basiskurs Sonografie» in der Schweiz und die aktuelle Aktivität der studentischen Peer-Tutoren an Schweizer Hochschulen. Wir diskutieren Erfolgsfaktoren und aktuelle Herausforderungen des Projekts sowie der Sektion Young Sonographers und blicken in die Zukunft der Ultraschallausbildung in der Schweiz.
Turbulence Power Spectra in Regions Surrounding Jupiter's South Polar Cyclones From Juno/JIRAM
Authors: Moriconi M. L. , Migliorini A. , Altieri F. , Adriani A. , Mura A. , Orton G. , Lunine J. I. , Grassi D. , Atreya S. K. , Ingersoll A. P. , Dinelli B. M. , Bolton S. J. , Levin S. , Tosi F. , Noschese R. , Plainaki C. , Cicchetti A. , Sindoni G. , Olivieri A.
Published: June 2020

We present a power spectral analysis of two narrow annular regions near Jupiter's South Pole derived from data acquired by the Jovian Infrared Auroral Mapper instrument onboard NASA's Juno mission. In particular, our analysis focuses on the data set acquired by the Jovian Infrared Auroral Mapper M‐band imager (hereafter IMG‐M) that probes Jupiter's thermal emission in a spectral window centered at 4.8 μm. We analyze the power spectral densities of circular paths outside and inside of cyclones on images acquired during six Juno perijoves. The typical spatial resolution is around 55 km pixel−1. We limited our analysis to six acquisitions of the South Pole from February 2017 to May 2018. The power spectral densities both outside and inside the circumpolar ring seem to follow two different power laws. The wave numbers follow average power laws of −0.9 ± 0.2 (inside) and −1.2 ± 0.2 (outside) and of −3.2 ± 0.3 (inside) and −3.4 ± 0.2 (outside), respectively, beneath and above the transition in slope located at ~2 × 10−3 km−1 wave number. This kind of spectral behavior is typical of two‐dimensional turbulence. We interpret the 500 km length scale, corresponding to the transition in slope, as the Rossby deformation radius. It is compatible with the dimensions of a subset of eddy features visible in the regions analyzed, suggesting that a baroclinic instability may exist. If so, it means that the quasi‐geostrophic approximation is valid in this context.
Venusian Cloud Distribution Simulated by a General Circulation Model
Authors: Ando Hiroki , Takagi Masahiro , Sugimoto Norihiko , Sagawa Hideo , Matsuda Yoshihisa
Published: June 2020

We construct a simple cloud model for a Venus general circulation model (GCM), which includes condensable gases of H2O and H2SO4 vapors, and condensation, evaporation, and sedimentation of sulfuric acid cloud particles. The zonally averaged mass loading of the cloud reproduced in the model takes its maximum and minimum in high and middle latitudes, respectively. This latitudinal distribution is consistent with the infrared measurements. The thick cloud is formed in high latitudes at 43–55 km altitudes by vertical winds associated with disturbances enhanced in the low static stability layer. The moderately thick cloud in low latitudes is attributed mainly to the transport of H2SO4 vapor by the mean meridional circulation. The horizontal cloud distribution in low latitudes has zonal wave numbers 1 and 2 structures, which change in time significantly. These characteristics of the low‐latitude cloud would be associated with atmospheric waves in the cloud layer. The mixing ratio of H2O vapor increases with latitude in the cloud layer due to the vertical wind disturbances in the low static stability layer in high latitudes. This latitudinal trend is qualitatively consistent with the infrared measurements. The mixing ratio of H2SO4 vapor increases with latitude in the subcloud layer because a large amount of the cloud is evaporated there due to the sedimentation of cloud particles in the thick lower cloud in the polar region. The present results suggest that the Venus cloud distribution in the lower cloud layer is strongly affected by waves and/or disturbances as well as the mean meridional circulation.
Detection of Reduced Sulfur on Vera Rubin Ridge by Quadratic Discriminant Analysis of Volatiles Observed During Evolved Gas Analysis
Authors: Wong Gregory M. , Lewis James M. T. , Knudson Christine A. , Millan Maëva , McAdam Amy C. , Eigenbrode Jennifer L. , Andrejkovičová Slavka , Gómez Felipe , Navarro‐González Rafael , House Christopher H.
Published: June 2020

The Mars Science Laboratory mission investigated Vera Rubin ridge, which bears spectral indications of elevated amounts of hematite and has been hypothesized as having a complex diagenetic history. Martian samples, including three drilled samples from the ridge, were analyzed by the Sample Analysis at Mars instrument suite via evolved gas analysis‐mass spectrometry (EGA‐MS). Here, we report new EGA‐MS data from Martian samples and describe laboratory analogue experiments. Analyses of laboratory analogues help determine the presence of reduced sulfur in Martian solid samples, which could have supported potential microbial life. We used evolved carbonyl sulfide (COS) and carbon disulfide (CS2) to identify Martian samples likely to contain reduced sulfur by applying a quadratic discriminant analysis. While we report results for 24 Martian samples, we focus on Vera Rubin ridge samples and select others for comparison. Our results suggest the presence of reduced sulfur in the Jura member of Vera Rubin ridge, which can support various diagenetic history models, including, as discussed in this work, diagenetic alteration initiated by a mildly reducing, sulfite‐containing groundwater.
Internal Compass Guides Salmon’s Incredible Journey
Authors: Morton Mary
Published: June 2020

New study finds evidence that magnetite particles play a role in fish navigation.
Rupture Dynamics of the 2012 Nicoya Mw 7.6 Earthquake: Evidence for Low Strength on the Megathrust
Authors: Yao Suli , Yang Hongfeng
Published: June 2020

Frictional properties on subduction interfaces are essential for understanding earthquake nucleation, rupture propagation, and tsunami generation during megathrust earthquakes. Because they cannot be directly observed, they have been inferred from different approaches. However, none of them have reported constraints immediately before a megathrust earthquake. Here we quantify the frictional strength on the megathrust prior to the 2012 Mw 7.6 Nicoya earthquake by conducting spontaneous rupture simulations with constraints from near‐field observations. Our preferred dynamic rupture model shows a remarkable fit on the near‐field data. The simulation results indicate an average strength drop of <5 MPa. Considering typical ranges for the dynamic friction coefficient fd ≤ 0.2 and the static friction coefficient fs = 0.6, we infer that the average strength on the megathrust is ≤7.5 MPa. Such low strength is attributed to the near‐lithostatic pore pressure along the subduction interface, which is implied by seismic studies in this region.
Wintertime Airborne Measurements of Ice Nucleating Particles in the High Arctic: A Hint to a Marine, Biogenic Source for Ice Nucleating Particles
Authors: Hartmann M. , Adachi K. , Eppers O. , Haas C. , Herber A. , Holzinger R. , Hünerbein A. , Jäkel E. , Jentzsch C. , van Pinxteren M. , Wex H. , Willmes S. , Stratmann F.
Published: June 2020

Ice nucleating particles (INPs) affect the radiative properties of cold clouds. Knowledge concerning their concentration above ground level and their potential sources is scarce. Here we present the first highly temperature resolved ice nucleation spectra of airborne samples from an aircraft campaign during late winter in 2018. Most INP spectra featured low concentration levels (<3 · 10−4 L−1 at −15°C). However, we also found INP concentrations of up to 1.8·10−2 L−1 at −15°C and freezing onsets as high as −7.5°C for samples mainly from the marine boundary layer. Shape and onset temperature of the ice nucleation spectra of those samples as well as heat sensitivity hint at biogenic INP. Colocated measurements additionally indicate a local marine influence rather than long‐range transport. Our results suggest that even in late winter above 80°N a local marine source for biogenic INP, which can efficiently nucleate ice at high temperatures, is present.
Exceptionally Warm and Prolonged Flow of Warm Deep Water Toward the Filchner‐Ronne Ice Shelf in 2017
Authors: Ryan Svenja , Hellmer Hartmut H. , Janout Markus , Darelius Elin , Vignes Lucie , Schröder Michael
Published: June 2020

The Filchner‐Ronne Ice Shelf, fringing the southern Weddell Sea, is Antarctica's second largest ice shelf. At present, basal melt rates are low due to active dense water formation; however, model projections suggest a drastic increase in the future due to enhanced inflow of open‐ocean warm water. Mooring observations from 2014 to 2016 along the eastern flank of the Filchner Trough (76°S) revealed a distinct seasonal cycle with inflow if Warm Deep Water during summer and autumn. Here we present extended time series showing an exceptionally warm and long inflow in 2017, with maximum temperatures exceeding 0.5°C. Warm temperatures persisted throughout winter, associated with a fresh anomaly, which lead to a change in stratification over the shelf, favoring an earlier inflow in the following summer. We suggest that the fresh anomaly developed upstream after anomalous summer sea ice melting and contributed to a shoaling of the shelf break thermocline.
Convection‐Permitting Models Offer Promise of More Certain Extreme Rainfall Projections
Authors: Fosser Giorgia , Kendon Elizabeth J. , Stephenson David , Tucker Simon
Published: June 2020

The future increase in extreme precipitation is likely to have a severe impact on society due to flooding. Previous research has shown the improved representation of precipitation in convection‐permitting models (CPMs), but until now it has not been possible to quantify uncertainties in future changes at convective (<5 km) scales. Here we analyze the first‐ever ensemble of convection‐permitting climate projections run within the UK Climate Projections project. We find that the CPM ensemble shows a significantly stronger intensification of summer hourly precipitation compared to the driving 12 km ensemble, with increases above the Clausius‐Clapeyron relation and natural variability dominating the ensemble spread for extremes. Results suggest that the climate change signal across different CPMs may converge thanks to the more realistic representation of the local storm dynamics. We conclude that CPMs offer the promise of reducing uncertainties for extreme summer precipitation projections due to the better and explicit representation of convection.
Spatial Variability and Linkage Between Extreme Convections and Extreme Precipitation Revealed by 22‐Year Space‐Borne Precipitation Radar Data
Authors: Wang Tsechun , Tang Guoqiang
Published: June 2020

Based on unprecedented 22‐year records from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) precipitation radar (PR) and the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) dual‐frequency precipitation radar (DPR), this study aims to investigate the global distribution and linkage between both convections and precipitation extremes quasi‐globally. Overall, the spatial distributions of extreme events show significant regional variability and land‐ocean contrast. Extreme precipitation is dominant over tropical ocean while extreme convections are exclusive over land from tropics to higher latitude. Besides, there are strong positive relationships between extreme convections and precipitation based on multiple threshold‐based definitions of extremes, which provides more consistent physical properties of extreme events globally. The correlation is significant over land but relatively weak over oceans. Seasonal occurrences of extreme events are also examined. Furthermore, extreme events exhibit notable diurnal characteristics over global land with most extreme convections occurring in the afternoon, while diurnal cycles are more homogeneous over ocean.
Comparison of InSight Homestead Hollow to Hollows at the Spirit Landing Site
Authors: Weitz Catherine M. , Grant John A. , Golombek Matthew P. , Warner Nicholas H. , Hauber Ernst , Ansan Veronique , Wilson Sharon A. , Charalambous Constantinos , Williams Nathan , Calef Fred , Pike W. Thomas , Lethcoe‐Wilson Heather , Maki Justin , DeMott Alyssa , Kopp Megan
Published: June 2020

The InSight spacecraft landed within an ~27‐m diameter highly degraded impact crater, informally called Homestead hollow, that was disturbed during landing by pulsed retrorockets that blew out dust and scoured loose sand around the landing site. In order to provide insight into what the surface of Homestead hollow originally looked like before landing and to further characterize hollow physical properties, we examined images of similar hollows taken by the Spirit rover at the Gusev landing site. Hollows at both sites are characterized by a quasi‐circular appearance with little or no crater rim still visible and a bright interior with fewer and smaller rock sizes relative to the surrounding plains. Resolvable clast lengths (>2 mm) measured in Laguna hollow at the Spirit site and Homestead hollow are comparable with most clasts between 3 and 7 mm in length. Measurements of clast shapes show that those in Laguna hollow are slightly more elongate relative to those in Homestead hollow, although this may be an artifact of the differing viewing geometry and (or) a thicker dust mantle obscuring the full shape of clasts at Laguna hollow. The soils at both hollows show evidence for cohesion and a duricrust, with a trench dug at Laguna hollow and pits exposed at Homestead hollow exhibiting steep slopes, overhanging layers, and clods of soils. The similarities in morphology and physical properties of hollows at two different landing sites suggest recent environmental conditions that degrade and infill impact craters are comparable and pervasive for equatorial volcanic plains on Mars.
Epigenetic prediction of major depressive disorder
Authors: Barbu Miruna C. , Shen Xueyi , Walker Rosie M. , Howard David M. , Evans Kathryn L. , Whalley Heather C. , Porteous David J. , Morris Stewart W. , Deary Ian J. , Zeng Yanni , Marioni Riccardo E. , Clarke Toni-Kim , McIntosh Andrew M.
Published: June 2020

Variation in DNA methylation (DNAm) is associated with lifestyle factors such as smoking and body mass index (BMI) but there has been little research exploring its ability to identify individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD). Using penalised regression on genome-wide CpG methylation, we tested whether DNAm risk scores (MRS), trained on 1223 MDD cases and 1824 controls, could discriminate between cases (n = 363) and controls (n = 1417) in an independent sample, comparing their predictive accuracy to polygenic risk scores (PRS). The MRS explained 1.75% of the variance in MDD (β = 0.338, p = 1.17 × 10−7) and remained associated after adjustment for lifestyle factors (β = 0.219, p = 0.001, R2 = 0.68%). When modelled alongside PRS (β = 0.384, p = 4.69 × 10−9) the MRS remained associated with MDD (β = 0.327, p = 5.66 × 10−7). The MRS was also associated with incident cases of MDD who were well at recruitment but went on to develop MDD at a later assessment (β = 0.193, p = 0.016, R2 = 0.52%). Heritability analyses found additive genetic effects explained 22% of variance in the MRS, with a further 19% explained by pedigree-associated genetic effects and 16% by the shared couple environment. Smoking status was also strongly associated with MRS (β = 0.440, p ≤ 2 × 10−16). After removing smokers from the training set, the MRS strongly associated with BMI (β = 0.053, p = 0.021). We tested the association of MRS with 61 behavioural phenotypes and found that whilst PRS were associated with psychosocial and mental health phenotypes, MRS were more strongly associated with lifestyle and sociodemographic factors. DNAm-based risk scores of MDD significantly discriminated MDD cases from controls in an independent dataset and may represent an archive of exposures to lifestyle factors that are relevant to the prediction of MDD.
Elevated fatty acid amide hydrolase in the prefrontal cortex of borderline personality disorder: a [11C]CURB positron emission tomography study
Authors: Kolla Nathan J. , Mizrahi R. , Karas K. , Wang C. , Bagby R. M. , McMain S. , Simpson A. I. , Rusjan P. M. , Tyndale R. , Houle S. , Boileau I.
Published: June 2020

Amygdala-prefrontal cortex (PFC) functional impairments have been linked to emotion dysregulation and aggression in borderline personality disorder (BPD). Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the major catabolic enzyme for the endocannabinoid anandamide, has been proposed as a key regulator of the amygdala-PFC circuit that subserves emotion regulation. We tested the hypothesis that FAAH levels measured with [11C]CURB positron emission tomography in amygdala and PFC would be elevated in BPD and would relate to hostility and aggression. Twenty BPD patients and 20 healthy controls underwent FAAH genotyping (rs324420) and scanning with [11C]CURB. BPD patients were medication-free and were not experiencing a current major depressive episode. Regional differences in [11C]CURB binding were assessed using multivariate analysis of covariance with PFC and amygdala [11C]CURB binding as dependent variables, diagnosis as a fixed factor, and sex and genotype as covariates. [11C]CURB binding was marginally elevated across the PFC and amygdala in BPD (p = 0.08). In a priori selected PFC, but not amygdala, [11C]CURB binding was significantly higher in BPD (11.0%, p = 0.035 versus 10.6%, p = 0.29). PFC and amygdala [11C]CURB binding was positively correlated with measures of hostility in BPD (r > 0.4; p < 0.04). This study is the first to provide preliminary evidence of elevated PFC FAAH binding in any psychiatric condition. Findings are consistent with the model that lower endocannabinoid tone could perturb PFC circuitry that regulates emotion and aggression. Replication of these findings could encourage testing of FAAH inhibitors as innovative treatments for BPD.
America’s opioid crisis: the need for an integrated public health approach
Authors: Blanco Carlos , Wiley Tisha R. A. , Lloyd Jacqueline J. , Lopez Marsha F. , Volkow Nora D.
Published: June 2020

Continued increases in overdose deaths and recent declines in life expectancy call for need to adopt comprehensive public health approaches to the United States opioid crisis and to establish an infrastructure to avert future crises. Successfully addressing the challenges posed by the crisis requires a translational, integrated approach that combines the contribution of neuroscience, pharmacology, epidemiology, treatment services and prevention. It also is critical to integrate interventions across settings, including healthcare, justice, education and social service systems. This review highlights four interconnected themes: (1) social determinants of health and disease; (2) person-centered approaches for prevention and treatment; (3) bridging the gap between implementation science and practice; and (4) using data to build learning systems of care, relevant to public health approaches to address the opioid crisis. We discuss how across these four themes taking into account the influence of developmental factors on brain function and sensitivity to environmental stimuli including drugs, addressing the complex interactions between biological and social factors, and promoting an ongoing dialogue across disciplines and settings will help accelerate public health advances that are evidenced based and sustainable to address the current opioid crisis and avert future ones.
Lifespan and healthspan benefits of exogenous H2S in C. elegans are independent from effects downstream of eat-2 mutation
Authors: Ng Li Theng , Ng Li Fang , Tang Richard Ming Yi , Barardo Diogo , Halliwell Barry , Moore Philip Keith , Gruber Jan
Published: June 2020

Caloric restriction (CR) is one of the most effective interventions to prolong lifespan and promote health. Recently, it has been suggested that hydrogen sulfide (H2S) may play a pivotal role in mediating some of these CR-associated benefits. While toxic at high concentrations, H2S at lower concentrations can be biologically advantageous. H2S levels can be artificially elevatedviaH2S-releasing donor drugs. In this study, we explored the function of a novel, slow-releasing H2S donor drug (FW1256) and used it as a tool to investigate H2S in the context of CR and as a potential CR mimetic. We show that exposure to FW1256 extends lifespan and promotes health inCaenorhabditis elegans(C. elegans) more robustly than some previous H2S-releasing compounds, including GYY4137. We looked at the extent to which FW1256 reproduces CR-associated physiological effects in normal-feedingC. elegans. We found that FW1256 promoted healthy longevity to a similar degree as CR but with fewer fitness costs. In contrast to CR, FW1256 actually enhanced overall reproductive capacity and did not reduce adult body length. FW1256 further extended the lifespan of already long-livedeat-2mutants without further detriments in developmental timing or fertility, but these lifespan and healthspan benefits required H2S exposure to begin early in development. Taken together, these observations suggest that FW1256 delivers exogenous H2S efficiently and supports a role for H2S in mediating longevity benefits of CR. Delivery of H2SviaFW1256, however, does not mimic CR perfectly, suggesting that the role of H2S in CR-associated longevity is likely more complex than previously described.
Feature selection strategies for drug sensitivity prediction
Authors: Koras Krzysztof , Juraeva Dilafruz , Kreis Julian , Mazur Johanna , Staub Eike , Szczurek Ewa
Published: June 2020

Drug sensitivity prediction constitutes one of the main challenges in personalized medicine. Critically, the sensitivity of cancer cells to treatment depends on an unknown subset of a large number of biological features. Here, we compare standard, data-driven feature selection approaches to feature selection driven by prior knowledge of drug targets, target pathways, and gene expression signatures. We asses these methodologies on Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer (GDSC) dataset, evaluating 2484 unique models. For 23 drugs, better predictive performance is achieved when the features are selected according to prior knowledge of drug targets and pathways. The best correlation of observed and predicted response using the test set is achieved for Linifanib (r = 0.75). Extending the drug-dependent features with gene expression signatures yields the most predictive models for 60 drugs, with the best performing example of Dabrafenib. For many compounds, even a very small subset of drug-related features is highly predictive of drug sensitivity. Small feature sets selected using prior knowledge are more predictive for drugs targeting specific genes and pathways, while models with wider feature sets perform better for drugs affecting general cellular mechanisms. Appropriate feature selection strategies facilitate the development of interpretable models that are indicative for therapy design.
Tumor-associated macrophages in classical Hodgkin lymphoma: hormetic relationship to outcome
Authors: Werner Laura , Dreyer Johannes H. , Hartmann David , Barros Mário Henrique M. , Büttner-Herold Maike , Grittner Ulrike , Niedobitek Gerald
Published: June 2020

Commonly attributed to the prevalence of M2 macrophages, tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) are linked to poor outcome in Hodgkin lymphoma (HL). MYC is supposed to control the expression of M2-specific genes in macrophages, and deficiency in MYC-positive macrophages inhibits tumor growth in mouse models. To verify this hypothesis for HL, seventy-six samples were subjected to immunohistochemical double staining using CD68 or CD163 macrophage-specific antibodies and a reagent detecting MYC. For each cell population, labelled cells were grouped according to low, intermediate and high numbers and related to disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). MYC+ cells accounted for 21% and 18% of CD68+ and CD163+ cells, respectively. Numbers of MYC− macrophages were significantly higher in EBV+ cases while no differences were observed for MYC+ macrophages between EBV+ and EBV− cases. Cases with highest numbers of macrophages usually showed worst DFS and OS. In most scenarios, intermediate numbers of macrophages were associated with better outcome than very low or very high numbers. Our observations are reminiscent of the “hormesis hypothesis” and suggest that a relative lack of TAM may allow HL growth while macrophages display an inhibitory effect with increasing numbers. Above a certain threshold, TAM may again support tumor growth.
Low Intensity Vibrations Augment Mesenchymal Stem Cell Proliferation and Differentiation Capacity during in vitro Expansion
Authors: Bas Guniz , Loisate Stacie , Hudon Stephanie F. , Woods Kali , Hayden Eric J. , Pu Xinzhu , Beard Richard , Oxford Julia T. , Uzer Gunes
Published: June 2020

A primary component of exercise, mechanical signals, when applied in the form of low intensity vibration (LIV), increases mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) osteogenesis and proliferation. While it is generally accepted that exercise effectively combats the deleterious effects of aging in the musculoskeletal system, how long-term exercise affects stem cell aging, which is typified by reduced proliferative and differentiative capacity, is not well explored. As a first step in understanding the effect of long-term application of mechanical signals on stem cell function, we investigated the effect of LIV during in vitro expansion of MSCs. Primary MSCs were subjected to either a control or to a twice-daily LIV regimen for up to sixty cell passages (P60) under in vitro cell expansion conditions. LIV effects were assessed at both early passage (EP) and late passage (LP). At the end of the experiment, P60 cultures exposed to LIV maintained a 28% increase of cell doubling and a 39% reduction in senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity (p < 0.01) but no changes in telomere lengths and p16INK4a levels were observed. Prolonged culture-associated decreases in osteogenic and adipogenic capacity were partially protected by LIV in both EP and LP groups (p < 0.05). Mass spectroscopy of late passage MSC indicated a synergistic decrease of actin and microtubule cytoskeleton-associated proteins in both control and LIV groups while LIV induced a recovery of proteins associated with oxidative reductase activity. In summary, our findings show that the application of long-term mechanical challenge (+LIV) during in vitro expansion of MSCs for sixty passages significantly alters MSC proliferation, differentiation and structure. This suggests LIV as a potential tool to investigate the role of physical activity during aging.
IHF stabilizes pathogenicity island I of uropathogenic Escherichia coli strain 536 by attenuating integrase I promoter activity
Authors: Chittò Marco , Berger Michael , Berger Petya , Klotz Luisa , Dröge Peter , Dobrindt Ulrich
Published: June 2020

Pathogenicity islands (PAIs) represent horizontally acquired chromosomal regions and encode their cognate integrase, which mediates chromosomal integration and excision of the island. These site-specific recombination reactions have to be tightly controlled to maintain genomic stability, and their directionality depends on accessory proteins. The integration host factor (IHF) and the factor for inversion stimulation (Fis) are often involved in recombinogenic complex formation and controlling the directionality of the recombination reaction. We investigated the role of the accessory host factors IHF and Fis in controlling the stability of six PAIs in uropathogenic Escherichia coli strain 536. By comparing the loss of individual PAIs in the presence or absence of IHF or Fis, we showed that IHF specifically stabilized PAI I536 and that in particular the IHFB subunit seems to be important for this function. We employed complex genetic studies to address the role of IHF in PAI I536-encoded integrase (IntI) expression. Based on different YFP-reporter constructs and electrophoretic mobility shift assays we demonstrated that IntI acts a strong repressor of its own synthesis, and that IHF binding to the intI promoter region reduces the probability of intI promoter activation. Our results extend the current knowledge of the role of IHF in controlling directionality of site specific recombination reactions and thus PAI stability.
Long-term outcome of posterior fossa medulloblastoma in patients surviving more than 20 years following primary treatment in childhood
Authors: Frič Radek , Due-Tønnessen Bernt Johan , Lundar Tryggve , Egge Arild , Kronen Krossnes Bård , Due-Tønnessen Paulina , Stensvold Einar , Brandal Petter
Published: June 2020

The aim of the study was to analyze the long-term outcome (>20 years) after treatment of posterior fossa medulloblastoma (MB) in childhood. We analyzed data from patients treated for posterior fossa MB between 1974 (introduction of the first international treatment protocol in Norway) and 1987 (when use of radiotherapy was abandoned in children under 4 years of age). Out of 47 children, 24 survived >20 years. At the time of analysis, 16 patients (median age 41 years, range 32–52) were alive (median follow-up 34 years, range 30–42), while 8 patients died 22–41 years (median 31 years) after primary treatment: one late death (after 22 years) was due to tumor recurrence whilst other 7 deaths (after 23 to 41 years) were related to the detrimental effects of the treatment (secondary tumors, stroke, severe epilepsy and depression). Observed 20- and 30-year survival rates were 51% and 44%, respectively. Despite successful treatment of MB in childhood and satisfactory tumor control during the first 20 years following primary treatment, our data indicates that even long-term survivors may die from tumor recurrence. However, the main factors causing late mortality and morbidity in long-term survivors seem to be the complications related to radiotherapy given in childhood.
Transcriptional control of the gonococcal ompA gene by the MisR/MisS two-component regulatory system
Authors: Holley Concerta L. , Ayala Julio C. , Shafer William M.
Published: June 2020

Neisseria gonorrhoeae, the causative agent of gonorrhea, is an exclusive human pathogen whose growing antibiotic resistance is causing worldwide concern. The increasing rise of antibiotic resistance expressed by gonococci highlights the need to find alternative approaches to current gonorrhea treatment such as vaccine development or novel therapeutics. The gonococcal OmpA protein was previously identified as a potential vaccine candidate due to its conservation and stable expression amongst strains of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. However, factors that might modulate levels of OmpA and therefore potential vaccine efficacy are unknown. Earlier work indicated that ompA is part of the MisR/MisS regulon and suggested that it was a MisR-activated gene. Herein, we confirmed MisR/MisS regulation of ompA and report that the MisR response regulator can bind upstream of the ompA translational start codon. Further, we describe the contribution of a DNA sequence upstream of the ompA promoter that is critical for MisR activation of ompA transcription. Our results provide a framework for understanding the transcription of gonococcal ompA through a regulatory system known to be important for survival of gonococci during experimental infection.
Imaging characteristics of intravascular spherical contrast agents for grating-based x-ray dark-field imaging – effects of concentrations, spherical sizes and applied voltage
Authors: Notohamiprodjo Susan , Treitl Karla Maria , Hauke Christian , Sutter Sven-Martin , Auweter Sigrid , Pfeiffer Franz , Reiser Maximilian Ferdinand , Hellbach Katharina
Published: June 2020

This study investigates the x-ray scattering characteristics of microsphere particles in x-ray-grating-based interferometric imaging at different concentrations, bubble sizes and tube voltages (kV). Attenuation (ATI), dark-field (DFI) and phase-contrast (PCI) images were acquired. Signal-to-noise (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratios with water (CNRw) and air as reference (CNRa) were determined. In all modalities, a linear relationship between SNR and microbubbles concentration, respectively, microsphere size was found. A significant gain of SNR was found when varying kV. SNR was significantly higher in DFI and PCI than ATI. The highest gain of SNR was shown at 60 kV for all media in ATI and DFI, at 80 kV for PCI. SNR for all media was significantly higher compared to air and was slightly lower compared to water. A linear relationship was found between CNRa, CNRw, concentration and size. With increasing concentration and decreasing size, CNRa and CNRw increased in DFI, but decreased in PCI. Best CNRa and CNRw was found at specific combination of kV and concentration/size. Highest average CNRa and CNRw was found for microspheres in ATI and PCI, for microbubbles in DFI. Microspheres are a promising contrast-media for grating-based-interferometry, if kV, microsphere size and concentration are appropriately combined.
Male neotenic reproductives accelerate additional differentiation of female reproductives by lowering JH titer in termites
Authors: Oguchi Kohei , Sugime Yasuhiro , Shimoji Hiroyuki , Hayashi Yoshinobu , Miura Toru
Published: June 2020

Eusocial insects exhibit reproductive division of labor, in which only a fraction of colony members differentiate into reproductives. In termites, reproductives of both sexes are present in a colony and constantly engaged in reproduction. It has been suggested that the sex ratio of reproductives is maintained by social interactions. The presence of reproductives is known to inhibit the additional differentiation of same-sex reproductives, while it promotes the differentiation of opposite-sex reproductives. In this study, using the damp-wood termite Hodotermopsis sjostedti, physiological effects of male/female reproductives on the differentiation of supplementary reproductives (neotenics) were examined. The results showed that the only male-neotenic condition, i.e., the presence of male neotenics in the absence of female neotenics, accelerated the neotenic differentiation from female workers (i.e., pseudergates). Under this condition, the rise of juvenile hormone (JH) titer was repressed in females, and the application of a JH analog inhibited the female neotenic differentiation, indicating that the low JH titer leads to rapid differentiation. Thus, the only male-neotenic condition that actively promotes reproductive differentiation by manipulating physiological condition of females is suggested to be a mechanism underlying sexual asymmetry in reproductive function, which may lead the female-biased sex allocation of reproductives.
A small-molecule inhibitor of lectin-like oxidized LDL receptor-1 acts by stabilizing an inactive receptor tetramer state
Authors: Schnapp Gisela , Neubauer Heike , Büttner Frank H. , Handschuh Sandra , Lingard Iain , Heilker Ralf , Klinder Klaus , Prestle Jürgen , Walter Rainer , Wolff Michael , Zeeb Markus , Debaene Francois , Nar Herbert , Fiegen Dennis
Published: June 2020

The C-type lectin family member lectin-like oxidized LDL receptor-1 (LOX-1) has been object of intensive research. Its modulation may offer a broad spectrum of therapeutic interventions ranging from cardiovascular diseases to cancer. LOX-1 mediates uptake of oxLDL by vascular cells and plays an important role in the initiation of endothelial dysfunction and its progression to atherosclerosis. So far only a few compounds targeting oxLDL-LOX-1 interaction are reported with a limited level of characterization. Here we describe the identification and characterization of BI-0115, a selective small molecule inhibitor of LOX-1 that blocks cellular uptake of oxLDL. Identified by a high throughput screening campaign, biophysical analysis shows that BI-0115 binding triggers receptor inhibition by formation of dimers of the homodimeric ligand binding domain. The structure of LOX-1 bound to BI-0115 shows that inter-ligand interactions at the receptor interfaces are key to the formation of the receptor tetramer thereby blocking oxLDL binding.
Targeting eukaryotic proteases for natural products-based drug development
Authors: Al-Awadhi Fatma H. , Luesch Hendrik
Published: June 2020

This review describes the role of natural products as starting points for the development of selective protease inhibitors, examples of approved agents, the clinical and preclinical pipeline, and emerging opportunities beyond classical applications.
Cost-effective paper-based electrochemical immunosensor using a label-free assay for sensitive detection of ferritin
Authors: Boonkaew Suchanat , Teengam Prinjaporn , Jampasa Sakda , Rengpipat Sirirat , Siangproh Weena , Chailapakul Orawon
Published: June 2020

A label-free electrochemical immunosensor for detecting ferritin using a paper-based analytical device (ePAD) was created.
Nanoscale insight into the degradation mechanisms of the cartilage articulating surface preceding OA
Authors: Shoaib Tooba , Yuh Catherine , Wimmer Markus A. , Schmid Thomas M. , Espinosa-Marzal Rosa M.
Published: June 2020

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease and leading cause of disability globally. We report the a fundamental study of the mechanisms underlying deterioration of hydrated cartilage in the presence of elevated calcium content preceding OA.
Charge-conversional polyethylenimine-entrapped gold nanoparticles with 131I-labeling for enhanced dual mode SPECT/CT imaging and radiotherapy of tumors
Authors: Zhu Jingyi , Zhao Lingzhou , Zhao Pingping , Yang Junxing , Shi Jianhui , Zhao Jinhua
Published: June 2020

The designed 131I-APAS-Au PNPs with a pH-responsive charge conversion property enable the enhanced dual mode SPECT/CT imaging and radiotherapy of tumors.
Development of dual anti-biofilm and anti-bacterial medical devices
Authors: Burroughs Laurence , Ashraf Waheed , Singh Sonali , Martinez-Pomares Luisa , Bayston Roger , Hook Andrew L.
Published: June 2020

Silicone catheters impregnated with antibiotics and coated with an anti-attachment polyacrylate produce a device with dual anti-biofilm and anti-bacterial properties.
Structural evolution from a fence-like to pillared-layer metal–organic framework for the stable oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Ren Qian , Wu Jin-Qi , Zhao Jia-Wei , Li Cheng-Fei , Gong Li , Zhou Dong-Dong , Li Gao-Ren
Published: June 2020

A porous fence-like MOF transforms into a dense pillared-layer coordination polymer, improving its chemical stability and exhibiting an excellent electrolytic OER performance.
Nanocage-confined electrochemiluminescence for the detection of dopamine released from living cells
Authors: Ding Hao , Guo Weiliang , Zhou Ping , Su Bin
Published: June 2020

A novel electrochemiluminescent nanocage array (ENA) sensor with molecular sieving selectivity was prepared and used for the detection of dopamine released from living cells.
Layered α-MoO3 nanoplates for gas sensing applications
Authors: Felix A. A. , Silva R. A. , Orlandi M. O.
Published: June 2020

A versatile chemical route to produce rectangular layered α-MoO3 nanoplates with enhanced NO2 gas sensing response.
Carbon dioxide induced structural phase transition in metal–organic frameworks CPO-27
Authors: Pato-Doldán Breogán , Rosnes Mali H. , Chernyshov Dmitry , Dietzel Pascal D. C.
Published: June 2020

The framework of CO2 saturated CPO-27 is deformed below 110 K into a superstructure of the original honeycomb structure.
Enzyme-based optical biosensors for organophosphate class of pesticide detection
Authors: Kaur Jasvir , Singh Prabhat K.
Published: June 2020

A systematic review of enzyme based optical detection schemes for the detection and analysis of organophosphate pesticides has been presented.
Efficient prediction of nucleus independent chemical shifts for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
Authors: Kilymis Dimitrios , Bartók Albert P. , Pickard Chris J. , Forse Alexander C. , Merlet Céline
Published: June 2020

Predicted versus DFT isotropic NICS for anthracene, calculated on a grid of points around the molecule.
Shock-induced ejecta transport and breakup in reactive gas
Authors: Wu Bao , Wu FengChao , Wang Pei , He AnMin , Wu HengAn
Published: June 2020

Revealing the effect of chemical reactions on ejecta transport and fragmentation from atomic levers.
Transport of self-propelled particles across a porous medium: trapping, clogging, and the Matthew effect
Authors: Shi Shen-jia , Li Hui-shu , Feng Guo-qiang , Tian Wen-de , Chen Kang
Published: June 2020

Active motion speeds up the transport but also causes accumulation of particles in the medium, which exhibits the symmetry-breaking Matthew effect.
Efficient autocatalytic oximation of bio-based 2,5-diformylfuran with aqueous hydroxylamine under mild conditions
Authors: Chen Jinbo , Ma Zhongsen , Xia Changjiu , Zhang Yajie , Shu Xingtian
Published: June 2020

An efficient and clean method for preparation of 2, 5-Diformylfuran dioxime (DFFD) was presented through an acid-autocatalytic oximation of bio-based 2,5-diformylfuran (DFF) with aqueous hydroxylamine under mild conditions.
Application of neon as a collision gas – a cell gas index for collision/reaction cell-ICP-MS determination
Authors: Narukawa T. , Shikino O. , Chiba K.
Published: June 2020

A “cell gas index” which assesses the effectiveness of He, H2, Ne, Ar, O2, N2, Kr, and Xe as a collision/reaction gas considering their chemical and physical parameters is proposed.
Efficient ionic medium supported reduced graphene oxide-based sensor for selective sensing of dopamine
Authors: Baig Nadeem , Kawde Abdel-Nasser , Ibrahim Mohamed
Published: June 2020

Sensitive and selective sensing of dopamine was carried out by nanostructured graphene produced on the electrode surface with the help of ionic medium supported graphene oxide.
Pivotal role of N and Bi doping in CQD/Mn3O4 composite structure with outstanding visible photoactivity
Authors: Jamila Ghulam Sughra , Sajjad Shamaila , Leghari Sajjad Ahmed Khan , Li Yongdan
Published: June 2020

The roles of N and Bi doped CQDs have been checked. N-doping resulted in exclusive optical and electronic properties in the CQDs while preserving their intrinsic properties such as quantum size effect, surface area and compatibility.
Diverse reactivity of isatin-based N,N′-cyclic azomethine imine dipoles with arynes: synthesis of 1′-methyl-2′-oxospiro [indene-1,3′-indolines] and 3-aryl-3-pyrazol-2-oxindoles
Authors: Meerakrishna Ramakrishnan Suseela , Smile Suresh Snoxma , Athira Mohanakumaran , Choutipalli Venkata Surya Kumar , Shanmugam Ponnusamy
Published: June 2020

Reaction of aryne with isatin based N,N′-cyclic AMI 1,3-dipole afforded 3,3-disubstituted oxindole while methyl substitution on the pyrrolidine ring of 1,3-dipole directed [3+2] cycloaddition products.
The coexistence of threshold and memory switching characteristics of ALD HfO2 memristor synaptic arrays for energy-efficient neuromorphic computing
Authors: Abbas Haider , Abbas Yawar , Hassan Gul , Sokolov Andrey Sergeevich , Jeon Yu-Rim , Ku Boncheol , Kang Chi Jung , Choi Changhwan
Published: June 2020

Coexistence of threshold and memory switching characteristics of ALD HfO2 memristor synaptic arrays for energy-efficient neuromorphic computing.
Cu-Catalyzed tandem N-arylation of phthalhydrazides with cyclic iodoniums to yield dihydrobenzo[c]cinnolines
Authors: Xie Rongrong , Lv Hongxu , Ye Xiuqing , Kong Xiangfei , Li Shiqing
Published: June 2020

Cu-Catalyzed tandem N-arylation of dihydrazides with cyclic iodoniums to yield dihydrobenzo[c]cinnolines has been reported.
Synthesis of well-defined mechanochromic polymers based on a radical-type mechanochromophore by RAFT polymerization: living radical polymerization from a polymerization inhibitor
Authors: Aoki Daisuke , Yanagisawa Moeko , Otsuka Hideyuki
Published: June 2020

Synthesis of mechanochromic polymers based on a radical-type mechanochromophore by RAFT polymerization: living radical polymerization from a polymerization inhibitor.