bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of integrated agronomic and weed management practices on soybean canopy development and yield
Authors: Arsenijevic Nikola , DeWerff Ryan , Conley Shawn , Ruark Matthew , Werle Rodrigo
Published: October 2021

The role of weed suppression by the cultivated crop is often overlooked in annual row cropping systems. Agronomic practices such as planting time, row spacing, tillage and herbicide selection may influence the time of crop canopy closure. The objective of this research was to evaluate the influence of the aforementioned agronomic practices and their interaction with the adoption of an effective preemergence (PRE) soil residual herbicide program on soybean canopy closure and yield. A field experiment was conducted in 2019 and 2020 in Arlington, WI, as a 2×2×2×2 factorial in a randomized complete block design, including early (late April) and standard (late May) planting time, narrow (38 cm) and wide (76 cm) row spacing, conventional tillage and no-till, and soil-applied PRE herbicide (yes and no; flumioxazin 150 g ai ha−1 + metribuzin 449 g ai ha−1 + pyroxasulfone 190 g ai ha−1). All plots were maintained weed-free throughout the growing season. In both years, early planted soybeans reached 90% green canopy cover (T90) before (7 to 9 d difference) and yielded more (188 to 902 kg ha−1 difference) than the standard planted soybeans. Narrow-row soybeans reached T90 earlier than wide-row soybeans (4 to 7 d difference), but yield was similar between row spacing treatments. Conventional tillage resulted in a higher yield compared to a no-till system (377 kg ha−1 difference). The PRE herbicide slightly delayed T90 (4 d or less) but had no impact on yield. All practices investigated herein influenced the time of soybean canopy closure but only planting time and tillage impacted yield. Planting soybeans earlier and reducing their row spacing expedites the time to canopy closure. The potential delay in canopy development and yield loss if soybeans are allowed to compete with weeds early in the season would likely outweigh the slight delay in canopy development by an effective PRE herbicide.
Anorektale Funktionsdiagnostik
Authors: Fox Mark , Markopoulos Konstantinos , Flückiger Miriam
Published: October 2021

Zusammenfassung. Die anorektale Funktionsdiagnostik ermöglicht die Messung des Analsphinkterdrucks, die Evaluierung der Rektumsensibilität sowie die Überprüfung der rektoanalen Reflexe, die wesentliche Elemente der Beurteilung der Darmentleerung darstellen. Sie wird mit einem Ballonexpulsionstest kombiniert, um sicherzustellen, dass die manometrischen Befunde mit der anorektalen Funktion übereinstimmen. Diese Tests finden in der diagnostischen Abklärung der chronischen Stuhlentleerungsstörung, der Obstipation und der fäkalen Inkontinenz ihre Anwendung, können aber auch im prä- und postoperativen Setting, bei funktionellen anorektalen Schmerzen und anderen Störungen der Beckenbodenfunktion Klärung bringen. Bei den meisten Patienten, die zur Untersuchung dieser Symptome überwiesen werden, ist eine umfassende Beurteilung der anorektalen Struktur und Funktion erforderlich. Aufgrund der hohen Variabilität der Normalwerte und Komplexität der anorektalen Funktion liefert keine einzelne Untersuchung alle Informationen, die für eine symptomerklärende, schlüssige Diagnose erforderlich sind und die Therapieentscheidung beeinflussen. Die anorektale Manometrie ist nützlich, um das Ausmass der Beeinträchtigung der anorektalen Funktion zu beurteilen und zwischen organischen und funktionellen Erkrankungen (inklusive Beckenbodendyssynergie) zu unterscheiden. Eine vorangehende ausführliche Anamnese sowie endoskopische (Prokto- / Rektoskopie) und bildgebende Verfahren (anorektale Endosonographie, dynamische MR-Defäkographie) vervollständigen die Diagnostik.
Neues in der Asthma-Grundversorgung
Authors: Leuppi Jörg D. , Bridevaux Pierre-Olivier , Charbonnier Florian , Clarenbach Christian , Duchna Hans-Werner , Gianella Pietro , Jochmann Anja , Kern Lukas , Meyer Franca , Pavlov Nikolay , Rothe Thomas , Steurer-Stey Claudia , Garnier Christophe von
Published: October 2021

Zusammenfassung. Für die Allgemeinpraktikerin und den Allgemeinpraktiker gibt es wichtige Neuerungen in der Asthmabehandlung, da sich die internationalen Empfehlungen auf Basis der Global Initiative for Asthma (GINA) geändert haben. Für die Stufe 1 wird der alleinige Einsatz kurzwirksamer β2-Agonisten (SABA) ohne inhalatives Kortikosteroid (ICS) aufgrund der mangelnden Wirksamkeit und Sicherheit nicht mehr empfohlen, sondern stattdessen niedrig dosiertes ICS-Formoterol bei Bedarf. Bei schwerem, unkontrolliertem Asthma der Stufe 5 wird der Einsatz von biologischen Therapien, wie z.B. Interleukin-Antikörpern, empfohlen. Weisen Asthma-Kranke gleichzeitig auch Symptome einer chronisch-obstruktiven Lungenkrankheit (COPD) auf, sollten sie mit einer ICS-enthaltenden Therapie behandelt werden. Die Empfehlungen der GINA bleiben auch während der Corona-Pandemie unverändert gültig. Aktuelle Verschreibungsdaten der Schweiz belegen, dass sowohl SABA als auch orale Kortikosteroide (OCS) noch eine grosse Rolle in der Asthmabehandlung spielen und die GINA-Empfehlungen noch nicht ausreichend umgesetzt wurden.
Downhole Distributed Acoustic Sensing Provides Insights Into the Structure of Short‐Period Ocean‐Generated Seismic Wavefield
Authors: Glubokovskikh Stanislav , Pevzner Roman , Sidenko Evgeny , Tertyshnikov Konstantin , Gurevich Boris , Shatalin Sergey , Slunyaev Alexey , Pelinovsky Efim
Published: October 2021

Ocean‐generated seismic waves are omnipresent in passive seismic records around the world and present both a challenge for earthquake observations and an input signal for interferometric methods for characterization of the Earth's interior. Understanding of these waves requires the knowledge of the depth dependence of the oceanic noise at the transition into the continent. To this end, we examine 80 days of continuous acquisition with distributed acoustic sensor (DAS) system deployed in two deep boreholes near the south‐eastern coast of Australia. The iDASv3™ system deployed in a deep borehole at the CO2CRC Otway Project site provides sufficiently high sensitivity and low instrumentation noise for frequencies from 100 mHz to 20 Hz. Analysis of the seismograms and correlation with wave climate allows decomposing the DAS response into microseisms generated by swell from remote storms (0.15 Hz) and local winds (between 0.2 and 2 Hz), and strong body wave energy from large surf breaks at the coast (from 2 to 20 Hz). The depth dependence of the microseisms provides useful insights into the energy partition between the Rayleigh wave modes and may augment conventional kinematic analysis of the sparse surface seismological arrays. Overall, ocean‐generated signals at each channel along the borehole are strongly related to the wave climate, so that—with sufficient amount of training data—the passive seismic records on several downhole DAS sensors has a potential for high‐precision monitoring of formations surrounding the borehole as well as remote storms in the ocean.
Numerical Analysis of the Impact of Complex Urban Environment on a Snowfall Event in Beijing
Authors: Guo Liangchen , Fu Danhong , Xiao Hui , Zhang Yanqing , Miao Shiguang
Published: October 2021

The impacts of anthropogenic heat emissions, urban land use, and aerosols on a snowfall event in Beijing were investigated by using the Weather Research and Forecasting model. The results show that urban land use and anthropogenic heat emissions can reduce the accumulation of snowfall by 17%–22% within the fifth ring road, which depends on the aerosol number concentration and size. The increase in aerosols (same land use and anthropogenic heat emissions) can increase the accumulated snowfall within fifth ring road, especially for accumulated and coarse mode. Urban land use, anthropogenic heat emissions, and aerosols have different effect on snowfall, which depend mainly on relatively humidity. Urban land use and anthropogenic heat emissions lead to the formation of an “urban heat and dry island,” which is not favorable to snowfall processes during the initial snowfall processes and leads to a decrease in ice crystals and snow by 47% averaged. At this time, the increase in aerosol number concentrations has less impact (increase by 5% averaged) on snowfall because of higher supersaturation required for activation. With the development of snowfall processes, the feedback of cloud microphysics decrease temperature and increase relative humidity, which is favorable to snowfall process and increase snowfall slightly by 5% averaged. Meanwhile, the critical radius of aerosols that can be activated decrease, smaller particle aerosols are activated to form supercooled cloud water and further to form ice crystals and snow, which leads to an increase in accumulated snowfall by 11% averaged.
Concept and application of circulating proteasomes
Authors: Choi Won Hoon , Kim Sumin , Park Seoyoung , Lee Min Jae
Published: October 2021

Proteostasis is primarily a function of protein synthesis and degradation. Although the components and processes involved in intracellular proteostasis have been studied extensively, it is apparent that extracellular proteostasis is equitably crucial for the viability of organisms. The 26S proteasome, a unique ATP-dependent proteolytic complex in eukaryotic cells, contributes to the majority of intracellular proteolysis. Accumulating evidence suggests the presence of intact 20S proteasomes in the circulatory system (c-proteasomes), and similar to other plasma proteins, the levels of these c-proteasomes may vary, potentially reflecting specific pathophysiological conditions. Under normal conditions, the concentration of c-proteasomes has been reported to be in the range of ~0.2–2 μg/mL, which is ~2–4-fold lower than that of functional plasma proteins but markedly higher than that of signaling proteins. The characterization of c-proteasomes, such as their origin, structure, role, and clearance, has been delayed mainly due to technical limitations. In this review, we summarize the current perspectives pertaining to c-proteasomes, focusing on the methodology, including our experimental understanding. We believe that once the pathological relevance of c-proteasomes is revealed, these unique components may be utilized in the diagnosis and prognosis of diverse human diseases.
Heterogeneity of subsets in glioblastoma mediated by Smad3 palmitoylation
Authors: Fan Xiaoqing , Fan Junqi , Yang Haoran , Zhao Chenggang , Niu Wanxiang , Fang Zhiyou , Chen Xueran
Published: October 2021

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and deadly of the primary intracranial tumors and is comprised of subsets that show plasticity and marked heterogeneity, contributing to the lack of success in genomic profiling to guide development of precision medicine for these tumors. In this study, a mutation in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 was found to suppress the transforming growth factor-beta signaling pathway and E2F4 interacted with Smad3 to inhibit expression of mesenchymal markers. However, palmitoylation of Smad3 mediated by palmitoyltransferase ZDHHC19 promoted activation of the transforming growth factor-beta signaling pathway, and its interaction with EP300 promoted expression of mesenchymal markers in the mesenchymal subtype of GBM. Smad3 and hypoxia-inducible factor 1-alpha may be important molecular targets for treatment of glioma because they appear to coordinate the basic aspects of cancer stem cell biology.
A stem cell marker KLF5 regulates CCAT1 via three-dimensional genome structure in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Takeda Takashi , Yokoyama Yuhki , Takahashi Hidekazu , Okuzaki Daisuke , Asai Kaho , Itakura Hiroaki , Miyoshi Norikatsu , Kobayashi Shogo , Uemura Mamoru , Fujita Toshitsugu , Ueno Hiroo , Mori Masaki , Doki Yuichiro , Fujii Hodaka , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Yamamoto Hirofumi
Published: October 2021

Background

KLF5 plays a crucial role in stem cells of colorectum in cooperation with Lgr5 gene. In this study, we aimed to explicate a regulatory mechanism of the KLF5 gene product from a view of three-dimensional genome structure in colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

In vitro engineered DNA-binding molecule-mediated chromatin immunoprecipitation (enChIP)-seq method was used to identify the regions that bind to the KLF5 promoter.

Results

We revealed that the KLF5 promoter region interacted with the KLF5 enhancer region as well as the transcription start site (TSS) region of the Colon Cancer Associated Transcript 1 (CCAT1) gene. Notably, the heterodeletion mutants of KLF5 enhancer impaired the cancer stem-like properties of CRC cells. The KLF5 protein participated in the core-regulatory circuitry together with co-factors (BRD4, MED1, and RAD21), which constructs the three-dimensional genome structures consisting of KLF5 promoter, enhancer and CCAT1 TSS region. In vitro analysis indicated that KLF5 regulated CCAT1 expression and we found that CCAT1 expression was highly correlated with KLF5 expression in CRC clinical samples.

Conclusions

Our data propose the mechanistic insight that the KLF5 protein constructs the core-regulatory circuitry with co-factors in the three-dimensional genome structure and coordinately regulates KLF5 and CCAT1 expression in CRC.
c-Myc-activated USP2-AS1 suppresses senescence and promotes tumor progression via stabilization of E2F1 mRNA
Authors: Li Bingyan , Zhang Guang , Wang Zhongyu , Yang Yang , Wang Chenfeng , Fang Debao , Liu Kaiyue , Wang Fang , Mei Yide
Published: October 2021

The c-Myc oncoprotein plays a prominent role in cancer initiation, progression, and maintenance. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are recently emerging as critical regulators of the c-Myc signaling pathway. Here, we report the lncRNA USP2-AS1 as a direct transcriptional target of c-Myc. Functionally, USP2-AS1 inhibits cellular senescence and acts as an oncogenic molecule by inducing E2F1 expression. Mechanistically, USP2-AS1 associates with the RNA-binding protein G3BP1 and facilitates the interaction of G3BP1 to E2F1 3′-untranslated region, thereby leading to the stabilization of E2F1 messenger RNA. Furthermore, USP2-AS1 is shown as a mediator of the oncogenic function of c-Myc via the regulation of E2F1. Together, these findings suggest that USP2-AS1 is a negative regulator of cellular senescence and also implicates USP2-AS1 as an important player in mediating c-Myc function.
Effects of SARS CoV-2, COVID-19, and its vaccines on male sexual health and reproduction: where do we stand?
Authors: Lo Sharon P. , Hsieh Tung-Chin , Pastuszak Alexander W. , Hotaling James M. , Patel Darshan P.
Published: October 2021

Since severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was first discovered, there have been questions surrounding the effects of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and more recently the COVID-19 vaccine, on men’s health and fertility. Significant research has been conducted to study viral tropism, potential causes for gender susceptibility, the impact of COVID-19 on male sexual function in the acute and recovery phases, and the effects of the virus on male reproductive organs and hormones. This review provides a recent assessment of the literature regarding the impact of COVID-19 and its vaccine on male sexual health and reproduction.
Nuclear export of the pre-60S ribosomal subunit through single nuclear pores observed in real time
Authors: Ruland Jan Andreas , Krüger Annika Marie , Dörner Kerstin , Bhatia Rohan , Wirths Sabine , Poetes Daniel , Kutay Ulrike , Siebrasse Jan Peter , Kubitscheck Ulrich
Published: October 2021

Ribosomal biogenesis has been studied by biochemical, genetic and electron microscopic approaches, but live cell data on the in vivo kinetics are still missing. Here we analyse the export kinetics of the large ribosomal subunit (pre-60S particle) through single NPCs in human cells. We established a stable cell line co-expressing Halo-tagged eIF6 and GFP-fused NTF2 to simultaneously label pre-60S particles and NPCs, respectively. By combining single molecule tracking and super resolution confocal microscopy we visualize the dynamics of single pre-60S particles during export through single NPCs. For export events, maximum particle accumulation is found in the centre of the pore, while unsuccessful export terminates within the nuclear basket. The export has a single rate limiting step and a duration of ∼24 milliseconds. Only about 1/3 of attempted export events are successful. Our results show that the mass flux through a single NPC can reach up to ~125 MDa·s−1 in vivo.
A Newcastle disease virus expressing a stabilized spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 induces protective immune responses
Authors: Sun Weina , Liu Yonghong , Amanat Fatima , González-Domínguez Irene , McCroskery Stephen , Slamanig Stefan , Coughlan Lynda , Rosado Victoria , Lemus Nicholas , Jangra Sonia , Rathnasinghe Raveen , Schotsaert Michael , Martinez Jose L. , Sano Kaori , Mena Ignacio , Innis Bruce L. , Wirachwong Ponthip , Thai Duong Huu , Oliveira Ricardo Das Neves , Scharf Rami , Hjorth Richard , Raghunandan Rama , Krammer Florian , García-Sastre Adolfo , Palese Peter
Published: October 2021

Rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines has helped mitigating SARS-CoV-2 spread, but more equitable allocation of vaccines is necessary to limit the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the emergence of additional variants of concern. We have developed a COVID-19 vaccine candidate based on Newcastle disease virus (NDV) that can be manufactured at high yields in embryonated eggs. Here, we show that the NDV vector expressing an optimized spike antigen (NDV-HXP-S) is a versatile vaccine inducing protective antibody responses. NDV-HXP-S can be administered intramuscularly as inactivated vaccine or intranasally as live vaccine. We show that NDV-HXP-S GMP-produced in Vietnam, Thailand and Brazil is effective in the hamster model. Furthermore, we show that intramuscular vaccination with NDV-HXP-S reduces replication of tested variants of concerns in mice. The immunity conferred by NDV-HXP-S effectively counteracts SARS-CoV-2 infection in mice and hamsters.
Structure of PDE3A–SLFN12 complex and structure-based design for a potent apoptosis inducer of tumor cells
Authors: Chen Jie , Liu Nan , Huang Yinpin , Wang Yuanxun , Sun Yuxing , Wu Qingcui , Li Dianrong , Gao Shuanhu , Wang Hong-Wei , Huang Niu , Qi Xiangbing , Wang Xiaodong
Published: October 2021

Molecular glues are a class of small molecular drugs that mediate protein-protein interactions, that induce either the degradation or stabilization of target protein. A structurally diverse group of chemicals, including 17-β-estradiol (E2), anagrelide, nauclefine, and DNMDP, induces apoptosis by forming complexes with phosphodiesterase 3A (PDE3A) and Schlafen 12 protein (SLFN12). They do so by binding to the PDE3A enzymatic pocket that allows the compound-bound PDE3A to recruit and stabilize SLFN12, which in turn blocks protein translation, leading to apoptosis. In this work, we report the high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy structure of PDE3A-SLFN12 complexes isolated from cultured HeLa cells pre-treated with either anagrelide, or nauclefine, or DNMDP. The PDE3A-SLFN12 complexes exhibit a butterfly-like shape, forming a heterotetramer with these small molecules, which are packed in a shallow pocket in the catalytic domain of PDE3A. The resulting small molecule-modified interface binds to the short helix (E552-I558) of SLFN12 through hydrophobic interactions, thus “gluing” the two proteins together. Based on the complex structure, we designed and synthesized analogs of anagrelide, a known drug used for the treatment of thrombocytosis, to enhance their interactions with SLFN12, and achieved superior efficacy in inducing apoptosis in cultured cells as well as in tumor xenografts.
Fossil evidence unveils an early Cambrian origin for Bryozoa
Authors: Zhang Zhiliang , Zhang Zhifei , Ma Junye , Taylor Paul D. , Strotz Luke C. , Jacquet Sarah M. , Skovsted Christian B. , Chen Feiyang , Han Jian , Brock Glenn A.
Published: October 2021

Bryozoans (also known as ectoprocts or moss animals) are aquatic, dominantly sessile, filter-feeding lophophorates that construct an organic or calcareous modular colonial (clonal) exoskeleton1–3. The presence of six major orders of bryozoans with advanced polymorphisms in lower Ordovician rocks strongly suggests a Cambrian origin for the largest and most diverse lophophorate phylum2,4–8. However, a lack of convincing bryozoan fossils from the Cambrian period has hampered resolution of the true origins and character assembly of the earliest members of the group. Here we interpret the millimetric, erect, bilaminate, secondarily phosphatized fossil Protomelission gatehousei9 from the early Cambrian of Australia and South China as a potential stem-group bryozoan. The monomorphic zooid capsules, modular construction, organic composition and simple linear budding growth geometry represent a mixture of organic Gymnolaemata and biomineralized Stenolaemata character traits, with phylogenetic analyses identifying P. gatehousei as a stem-group bryozoan. This aligns the origin of phylum Bryozoa with all other skeletonized phyla in Cambrian Age 3, pushing back its first occurrence by approximately 35 million years. It also reconciles the fossil record with molecular clock estimations of an early Cambrian origination and subsequent Ordovician radiation of Bryozoa following the acquisition of a carbonate skeleton10–13.
Propulsion of magnetically actuated achiral planar microswimmers in Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids
Authors: Chen Zhi , Wang Zihan , Quashie David , Benhal Prateek , Ali Jamel , Kim Min Jun , Cheang U Kei
Published: October 2021

Magnetic achiral planar microswimmers can be massively fabricated at low cost and are envisioned to be useful for in vivo biomedical applications. To understand locomotion in representative in vivo environments, we investigated the swimming performance of achiral planar microswimmers in methylcellulose solutions. We observed that these microswimmers displayed very similar swimming characteristics in methylcellulose solutions as in water. Furthermore, this study indicated that the range of precession angles increased as the concentration of MC solution increased. Last, it was demonstrated that achiral planar microswimmers with similar precession angles exhibited nearly the same dimensionless speeds in different concentrations of the methylcellulose solutions. Upon understanding swimmer kinematics, more effective control over the achiral planar microswimmers can be achieved to perform multiple biomedical tasks in in vivo environments.
NRIP1 is activated by C-JUN/C-FOS and activates the expression of PGR, ESR1 and CCND1 in luminal A breast cancer
Authors: Binato Renata , Corrêa Stephany , Panis Carolina , Ferreira Gerson , Petrone Igor , da Costa Igor Rodrigues , Abdelhay Eliana
Published: October 2021

Using chip array assays, we identified differentially expressed genes via a comparison between luminal A breast cancer subtype and normal mammary ductal cells from healthy donors. In silico analysis confirmed by western blot and immunohistochemistry revealed that C-JUN and C-FOS transcription factors are activated in luminal A patients as potential upstream regulators of these differentially expressed genes. Using a chip-on-chip assay, we identified potential C-JUN and C-FOS targets. Among these genes, the NRIP1 gene was revealed to be targeted by C-JUN and C-FOS. This was confirmed after identification and validation with transfection assays specific binding of C-JUN and C-FOS at consensus binding sites. NRIP1 is not only upregulated in luminal A patients and cell lines but also regulates breast cancer-related genes, including PR, ESR1 and CCND1. These results were confirmed by NRIP1 siRNA knockdown and chip array assays, thus highlighting the putative role of NRIP1 in PGR, ESR1 and CCND1 transcriptional regulation and suggesting that NRIP1 could play an important role in breast cancer ductal cell initiation.
Estimating time-to-contact when vision is impaired
Authors: Hecht Heiko , Brendel Esther , Wessels Marlene , Bernhard Christoph
Published: October 2021

Often, we have to rely on limited information when judging time-to-contact (TTC), as for example, when driving in foul weather, or in situations where we would need reading glasses but do not have them handy. However, most existing studies on the ability to judge TTC have worked with optimal visual stimuli. In a prediction motion task, we explored to what extent TTC estimation is affected by visual stimulus degradation. A simple computer-simulated object approached the observer at constant speed either with clear or impaired vision. It was occluded after 1 or 1.5 s. The observers extrapolated the object’s motion and pressed a button when they thought the object would have collided with them. We found that dioptric blur and simulated snowfall shortened TTC-estimates. Contrast reduction produced by a virtual semi-transparent mask lengthened TTC estimates, which could be the result of distance overestimation or speed underestimation induced by the lower contrast or the increased luminance of the mask. We additionally explored the potential influence of arousal and valence, although they played a minor role for basic TTC estimation. Our findings suggest that vision impairments have adverse effects on TTC estimation, depending on the specific type of degradation and the changes of the visual environmental cues which they cause.
Marine heatwaves in the Humboldt current system: from 5-day localized warming to year-long El Niños
Authors: Pietri Alice , Colas François , Mogollon Rodrigo , Tam Jorge , Gutierrez Dimitri
Published: October 2021

During the last 4 decades punctual occurrences of extreme ocean temperatures, known as marine heatwaves (MHWs), have been regularly disrupting the coastal ecosystem of the Peru-Chile eastern boundary upwelling system. In fact, this coastal system and biodiversity hot-spot is regularly impacted by El Niño events, whose variability has been related to the longest and most intense MHWs in the world ocean. However the intensively studied El Niños tend to overshadow the MHWs of shorter duration that are significantly more common in the region. Using sea surface temperature data from 1982 to 2019 we investigate the characteristics and evolution of MHWs, distinguishing events by duration. Results show that long duration MHWs (> 100 days) preferentially affect the coastal domain north of 15° S and have decreased in both occurrence and intensity in the last four decades. On the other hand, shorter events, which represent more than 90% of all the observed MHWs, are more common south of 15° S and show an increase in their thermal impact as well as on the number of affected days, particularly those spanning 30–100 days. We also show that long duration MHWs variability in the coastal domain is well correlated with the remote equatorial variability while the onset of short events (< 10 days) generally goes along with a relaxation of the local coastal wind.
The c-Rel transcription factor limits early interferon and neuroinflammatory responses to prevent herpes simplex encephalitis onset in mice
Authors: Mancini Mathieu , Charbonneau Benoît , Langlais David , Vidal Silvia M.
Published: October 2021

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is the predominant cause of herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE), a condition characterized by acute inflammation and viral replication in the brain. Host genetics contribute to HSE onset, including monogenic defects in type I interferon signaling in cases of childhood HSE. Mouse models suggest a further contribution of immune cell-mediated inflammation to HSE pathogenesis. We have previously described a truncating mutation in the c-Rel transcription factor (RelC307X) that drives lethal HSE in 60% of HSV-1-infected RelC307X mice. In this study, we combined dual host-virus RNA sequencing with flow cytometry to explore cell populations and mechanisms involved in RelC307X-driven HSE. At day 5 postinfection, prior to HSE clinical symptom onset, elevated HSV-1 transcription was detected together with augmented host interferon-stimulated and inflammatory gene expression in the brainstems of high-responding RelC307X mice, predictive of HSE development. This early induction of host gene expression preceded pathological infiltration of myeloid and T cells in RelC307X mice at HSE onset by day 7. Thus, we establish c-Rel as an early regulator of viral and host responses during mouse HSE. These data further highlight the importance of achieving a balanced immune response and avoiding excess interferon-driven inflammation to promote HSE resistance.
Perceptions of AI engaging in human expression
Authors: Bower Alexander H. , Steyvers Mark
Published: October 2021

Though humans should defer to the superior judgement of AI in an increasing number of domains, certain biases prevent us from doing so. Understanding when and why these biases occur is a central challenge for human-computer interaction. One proposed source of such bias is task subjectivity. We test this hypothesis by having both real and purported AI engage in one of the most subjective expressions possible: Humor. Across two experiments, we address the following: Will people rate jokes as less funny if they believe an AI created them? When asked to rate jokes and guess their likeliest source, participants evaluate jokes that they attribute to humans as the funniest and those to AI as the least funny. However, when these same jokes are explicitly framed as either human or AI-created, there is no such difference in ratings. Our findings demonstrate that user attitudes toward AI are more malleable than once thought—even when they (seemingly) attempt the most fundamental of human expressions.
In-depth proteomic profiling captures subtype-specific features of craniopharyngiomas
Authors: Kim Jung Hee , Kim Hyeyoon , Dan Kisoon , Kim Seong-Ik , Park Sung-Hye , Han Dohyun , Kim Yong Hwy
Published: October 2021

Craniopharyngiomas are rare epithelial tumors derived from pituitary gland embryonic tissue. This epithelial tumor can be categorized as an adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma (ACP) or papillary craniopharyngioma (PCP) subtype with histopathological and genetic differences. Genomic and transcriptomic profiles of craniopharyngiomas have been investigated; however, the proteomic profile has yet to be elucidated and added to these profiles. Recent improvements in high-throughput quantitative proteomic approaches have introduced new opportunities for a better understanding of these diseases and the efficient discovery of biomarkers. We aimed to confirm subtype-associated proteomic changes between ACP and PCP specimens. We performed a system-level proteomic study using an integrated approach that combines mass spectrometry-based quantitative proteomic, statistical, and bioinformatics analyses. The bioinformatics analysis showed that differentially expressed proteins between ACP and PCP were significantly involved in mitochondrial organization, fatty acid metabolic processes, exocytosis, the inflammatory response, the cell cycle, RNA splicing, cell migration, and neuron development. Furthermore, using network analysis, we identified hub proteins that were positively correlated with ACP and PCP phenotypes. Our findings improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of craniopharyngiomas and provide novel insights that may ultimately translate to the development of craniopharyngioma subtype-specific therapeutics.
Nutritional restriction during the peri-conceptional period alters the myometrial transcriptome during the peri-implantation period
Authors: Drzewiecka Ewa Monika , Kozlowska Wiktoria , Zmijewska Agata , Franczak Anita
Published: October 2021

This study hypothesized that female peri-conceptional undernutrition evokes transcriptomic alterations in the pig myometrium during the peri-implantation period. Myometrium was collected on days 15–16 of pregnancy from pigs fed a normal- (n = 4) or restricted-diet (n = 4) from conception until day 9th of pregnancy, and the transcriptomic profiles of the tissue were compared using Porcine (V2) Expression Microarrays 4 × 44 K. In restricted diet-fed pigs, 1021 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with fold change ≥ 1.5, P ≤ 0.05 were revealed, and 708 of them were up-regulated. Based on the count score, the top within GOs was GO cellular components “extracellular exosome”, and the top KEGG pathway was the metabolic pathway. Ten selected DEGs, i.e. hydroxysteroid (17β) dehydrogenase 8, cyclooxygenase 2, prostaglandin F receptor, progesterone receptor membrane component 1, progesterone receptor membrane component 2, annexin A2, homeobox A10, S-phase cyclin A-associated protein in the ER, SRC proto-oncogene, non-receptor tyrosine kinase, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen were conducted through qPCR to validate microarray data. In conclusion, dietary restriction during the peri-conceptional period causes alterations in the expression of genes encoding proteins involved i.a. in the endocrine activity of the myometrium, embryo-maternal interactions, and mechanisms regulating cell cycle and proliferation.
A pathophysiological model of gait captures the details of the impairment of pace/rhythm, variability and asymmetry in Parkinsonian patients at distinct stages of the disease
Authors: Godi Marco , Arcolin Ilaria , Giardini Marica , Corna Stefano , Schieppati Marco
Published: October 2021

Locomotion in people with Parkinson’ disease (pwPD) worsens with the progression of disease, affecting independence and quality of life. At present, clinical practice guidelines recommend a basic evaluation of gait, even though the variables (gait speed, cadence, step length) may not be satisfactory for assessing the evolution of locomotion over the course of the disease. Collecting variables into factors of a conceptual model enhances the clinical assessment of disease severity. Our aim is to evaluate if factors highlight gait differences between pwPD and healthy subjects (HS) and do it at earlier stages of disease compared to single variables. Gait characteristics of 298 pwPD and 84 HS able to walk without assistance were assessed using a baropodometric walkway (GAITRite®). According to the structure of a model previously validated in pwPD, eight spatiotemporal variables were grouped in three factors: pace/rhythm, variability and asymmetry. The model, created from the combination of three factor scores, proved to outperform the single variables or the factors in discriminating pwPD from HS. When considering the pwPD split into the different Hoehn and Yahr (H&Y) stages, the spatiotemporal variables, factor scores and the model showed that multiple impairments of gait appear at H&Y stage 2.5, with the greatest difference from HS at stage 4. A contrasting behavior was found for the asymmetry variables and factor, which showed differences from the HS already in the early stages of PD. Our findings support the use of factor scores and of the model with respect to the single variables in gait staging in PD.
Multiple magnetic phase transitions with different universality classes in bilayer La$$_{1.4}$$Sr$$_{1.6}$$Mn$$_{2}$$O$$_7$$ manganite
Authors: Kumar Birendra , Tiwari Jeetendra Kumar , Chauhan Harish Chandr , Ghosh Subhasis
Published: October 2021

Here, we report three magnetic transitions at 101 K (T$$_{C1}$$

C
1

), 246 K (T$$_{C2}$$

C
2

) and 295 K (T$$_{C3}$$

C
3

) in bilayer La$$_{1.4}$$

1.4

Sr$$_{1.6}$$

1.6

Mn$$_{2}$$

2

O$$_7$$

7

. The second order phase transitions have been identified at these transition points with the help of change in entropy analysis and modified Arrott plots (MAPs). The critical behavior around T$$_{C1}$$

C
1

, T$$_{C2}$$

C
2

and T$$_{C3}$$

C
3

have been studied by MAPs and Kouvel–Fisher method. Based on these analyses four magnetic phases are: (1) 2D Ising ferromagnetic (FM) below T$$_{C1}$$

C
1

,(2) 2D Heisenberg canted antiferromagnetic (CAFM-I) and FM clusters in temperature range T$$_{C1}$$

C
1

< T < T$$_{C2}$$

C
2

, (3) 2D Heisenberg CAFM-II and FM clusters with non magnetically interacting planes in temperature range T$$_{C2}$$

C
2

< T < T$$_{C3}$$

C
3

and (4) paramagnetic for T > T$$_{C3}$$

C
3

.
Tablet PC use directly affects children’s perception and attention
Authors: Wetzel Nicole , Kunke Dunja , Widmann Andreas
Published: October 2021

Children currently grow up with a marked increase in interactive digital mobile media. To what extent digital media directly modulate children’s perception and attention is largely unknown. We investigated the processing of task-irrelevant auditory information while 37 children aged 6;8–9;1-years played the identical card game on a tablet PC or with the experimenter in reality. The sound sequence included repeated standard sounds and occasionally novel sounds. Event-related potentials in the EEG, that reflect sound-related processes of perception and attention, were measured. Sounds evoked increased amplitudes of the ERP components P1, P2 and P3a during the interaction with the tablet PC compared to the human interaction. This indicates enhanced early processing of task-irrelevant information and increased allocation of attention to sounds throughout the interaction with a tablet PC compared to a human partner. Results suggest direct effects of typical situations, where children interact with a tablet PC, on neuronal mechanisms that drive perception and attention in the developing brain. More research into this phenomena is required to make specific suggestions for developing digital interactive learning programs.
Influence of structural reinforcements on the twist-to-bend ratio of plant axes: a case study on Carex pendula
Authors: Wolff-Vorbeck Steve , Speck Olga , Speck Thomas , Dondl Patrick W.
Published: October 2021

During biological evolution, plants have developed a wide variety of body plans and concepts that enable them to adapt to changing environmental conditions. The trade-off between flexural and torsional rigidity is an important example of sometimes conflicting mechanical requirements, the adaptation to which can be quantified by the dimensionless twist-to-bend ratio. Our study considers the triangular flower stalk of Carex pendula, which shows the highest twist-to-bend ratios ever measured for herbaceous plant axes. For an in-depth understanding of this peak value, we have developed geometric models reflecting the 2D setting of triangular cross-sections comprised of a parenchymatous matrix with vascular bundles surrounded by an epidermis. We analysed the mathematical models (using finite elements) to measure the effect of either reinforcements of the epidermal tissue or fibre reinforcements such as collenchyma and sclerenchyma on the twist-to-bend ratio. The change from an epidermis to a covering tissue of corky periderm increases both the flexural and the torsional rigidity and decreases the twist-to-bend ratio. Furthermore, additional individual fibre reinforcement strands located in the periphery of the cross-section and embedded in a parenchymatous ground tissue lead to a strong increase of the flexural and a weaker increase of the torsional rigidity and thus resulted in a marked increase of the twist-to-bend ratio. Within the developed model, a reinforcement by 49 sclerenchyma fibre strands or 24 collenchyma fibre strands is optimal in order to achieve high twist-to-bend ratios. Dependent on the mechanical quality of the fibres, the twist-to-bend ratio of collenchyma-reinforced axes is noticeably smaller, with collenchyma having an elastic modulus that is approximately 20 times smaller than that of sclerenchyma. Based on our mathematical models, we can thus draw conclusions regarding the influence of mechanical requirements on the development of plant axis geometry, in particular the placement of reinforcements.
The increased risk of multiple sclerosis associated with HLA-DRB1*15:01 and smoking is modified by alcohol consumption
Authors: Hedström Anna Karin , Olsson Tomas , Alfredsson Lars
Published: October 2021

Previous studies have observed an inverse association between alcohol consumption and multiple sclerosis (MS) risk. We aimed to investigate possible interactions between alcohol consumption, MS-associated human leukocyte antigen (HLA) genes and smoking regarding MS risk. We used a Swedish population-based case–control study (2059 incident cases, 2887 controls) matched by age, sex, and residential area. Subjects with different genotypes and alcohol consumption habits were compared regarding MS risk, by calculating odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals using logistic regression models. Interaction on the additive scale between non-drinking and both genotype and smoking were assessed by calculating the attributable proportion due to interaction (AP). There was a dose-dependent inverse association between alcohol consumption and MS risk (p for trend < 0.0001). A potentiating effect was observed between non-drinking and presence of DRB1*15:01 (AP 0.3, 95% CI 0.2–0.5) which was of similar magnitude irrespective of smoking habits. Non-drinking also interacted with smoking to increase MS risk (AP 0.2, 95% CI 0.06–0.4). Non-drinking interacts with DRB1*15:01 and smoking to increase the risk of MS. Better understanding of the mechanisms behind our findings may help to define ways to achieve protection against MS by other means than alcohol consumption.
Enhanced efficiency in hollow core electrospun nanofiber-based organic solar cells
Authors: Haghighat Bayan Mohammad Ali , Afshar Taromi Faramarz , Lanzi Massimiliano , Pierini Filippo
Published: October 2021

Over the last decade, nanotechnology and nanomaterials have attracted enormous interest due to the rising number of their applications in solar cells. A fascinating strategy to increase the efficiency of organic solar cells is the use of tailor-designed buffer layers to improve the charge transport process. High-efficiency bulk heterojunction (BHJ) solar cells have been obtained by introducing hollow core polyaniline (PANI) nanofibers as a buffer layer. An improved power conversion efficiency in polymer solar cells (PSCs) was demonstrated through the incorporation of electrospun hollow core PANI nanofibers positioned between the active layer and the electrode. PANI hollow nanofibers improved buffer layer structural properties, enhanced optical absorption, and induced a more balanced charge transfer process. Solar cell photovoltaic parameters also showed higher open-circuit voltage (+ 40.3%) and higher power conversion efficiency (+ 48.5%) than conventional architecture BHJ solar cells. Furthermore, the photovoltaic cell developed achieved the highest reported efficiency value ever reached for an electrospun fiber-based solar cell (PCE = 6.85%). Our results indicated that PANI hollow core nanostructures may be considered an effective material for high-performance PSCs and potentially applicable to other fields, such as fuel cells and sensors.
Modelling the seismic potential of the Indo-Burman megathrust
Authors: Vorobieva Inessa , Gorshkov Alexander , Mandal Prantik
Published: October 2021

The Indo-Burman arc is the boundary between the India and Burma plates, north of the Sumatra–Andaman subduction zone. The existence of active subduction in the Indo-Burman arc is a debatable issue because the Indian plate converges very obliquely beneath the Burma plate. Recent GPS measurements in Bangladesh, Myanmar, and northeast India indicate 13–17 mm/y of plate convergence along a shallow dipping megathrust while most of the strike-slip motion occurs on several steep faults, consistent with patterns of strain partitioning at subduction zones. A short period of instrumentally recorded seismicity and sparse historical records are insufficient to assess the possibility of great earthquakes at the Indo-Burman megathrust. Using the advantage of the Block-and-Fault Dynamics model allowing simultaneous simulation of slow tectonic motions and earthquakes, we test the hypothesis whether the India-Burma detachment is locked and able to produce great earthquakes, or it slips aseismically? We have shown that the model of locked detachment is preferred because it more adequately reproduces observed tectonic velocities. The integral characteristics of synthetic seismicity, the earthquake size distribution, and the rate of seismic activity are consistent with those derived from observations. Our results suggest that the megathrust is locked and can generate great M8+ earthquakes. The estimated average return period of great events exceeds one thousand years. Earthquakes of this size pose a great threat to NE India, Bangladesh and Myanmar, the most densely populated areas of the world.
Molecular characterization of hematopoietic stem cells after in vitro amplification on biomimetic 3D PDMS cell culture scaffolds
Authors: Marx-Blümel Lisa , Marx Christian , Sonnemann Jürgen , Weise Frank , Hampl Jörg , Frey Jessica , Rothenburger Linda , Cirri Emilio , Rahnis Norman , Koch Philipp , Groth Marco , Schober Andreas , Wang Zhao-Qi , Beck James F.
Published: October 2021

Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation is successfully applied since the late 1950s. However, its efficacy can be impaired by insufficient numbers of donor HSCs. A promising strategy to overcome this hurdle is the use of an advanced ex vivo culture system that supports the proliferation and, at the same time, maintains the pluripotency of HSCs. Therefore, we have developed artificial 3D bone marrow-like scaffolds made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) that model the natural HSC niche in vitro. These 3D PDMS scaffolds in combination with an optimized HSC culture medium allow the amplification of high numbers of undifferentiated HSCs. After 14 days in vitro cell culture, we performed transcriptome and proteome analysis. Ingenuity pathway analysis indicated that the 3D PDMS cell culture scaffolds altered PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways and activated SREBP, HIF1α and FOXO signaling, leading to metabolic adaptations, as judged by ELISA, Western blot and metabolic flux analysis. These molecular signaling pathways can promote the expansion of HSCs and are involved in the maintenance of their pluripotency. Thus, we have shown that the 3D PDMS scaffolds activate key molecular signaling pathways to amplify the numbers of undifferentiated HSCs ex vivo effectively.
Intramuscular injection of mesenchymal stem cells activates anabolic and catabolic systems in mouse skeletal muscle
Authors: Takegaki Junya , Sase Kohei , Kono Yusuke , Nakano Daiki , Fujita Takuya , Konishi Satoshi , Fujita Satoshi
Published: October 2021

Skeletal muscle mass is critical for good quality of life. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stem cells distributed across various tissues. They are characterized by the capacity to secrete growth factors and differentiate into skeletal muscle cells. These capabilities suggest that MSCs might be beneficial for muscle growth. Nevertheless, little is known regarding the effects on muscle protein anabolic and catabolic systems of intramuscular injection of MSCs into skeletal muscle. Therefore, in the present study, we measured changes in mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling, the ubiquitin–proteasome system, and autophagy-lysosome system-related factors after a single intramuscular injection of MSCs with green fluorescence protein (GFP) into mouse muscles. The intramuscularly-injected MSCs were retained in the gastrocnemius muscle for 7 days after the injection, indicated by detection of GFP and expression of platelet-derived growth factor receptor-alpha. The injection of MSCs increased the expression of satellite cell-related genes, activated mTORC1 signaling and muscle protein synthesis, and increased protein ubiquitination and autophagosome formation (indicated by the expression of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3-II). These results suggest that the intramuscular injection of MSCs activated muscle anabolic and catabolic systems and accelerated muscle protein turnover.