bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Change in hyper-palatable food availability in the US food system over 30 years: 1988–2018
Authors: Demeke Saron , Rohde Kaitlyn , Chollet-Hinton Lynn , Sutton Cassandra , Kong Kai Ling , Fazzino Tera L
Published: May 2022

Objective:

To quantify the change in availability of hyper-palatable foods (HPF) in the US foods system over 30 years (1988–2018).

Design:

Three datasets considered representative of the US food system were used in analyses to represent years 1988, 2001 and 2018. A standardised definition from Fazzino et al. (2019) that specifies combinations of nutrients was used to identify HPF.

Setting:

Analysis of food-item level data was conducted. Differences in the prevalence of HPF were characterised by Cochran’s Q and McNemar’s tests. Generalised linear mixed models with a fixed effect for time and random intercept for food item estimated change in the likelihood that a food was classified as hyper-palatable over time.

Participants:

No participant data were used.

Results:

The prevalence of HPF increased 20 % from 1988 to 2018 (from 49 % to 69 %; P < 0·0001). The most prominent difference was in the availability of HPF high in fat and Na, which evidenced a 17 % higher prevalence in 2018 compared with 1988 (P < 0·0001). Compared with 1988, the same food items were >2 times more likely to be hyper-palatable in 2001, and the same food items were >4 times more likely to be classified as hyper-palatable in 2018 compared with 1988 (P values < 0·0001).

Conclusions:

The availability of HPF in the US food system increased substantially over 30 years. Existing food products in the food system may have been reformulated over time to enhance their palatability.
IS CAUSAL REASONING HARDER THAN PROBABILISTIC REASONING?
Authors: MOSSÉ MILAN , IBELING DULIGUR , ICARD THOMAS
Published: May 2022

Many tasks in statistical and causal inference can be construed as problems of entailment in a suitable formal language. We ask whether those problems are more difficult, from a computational perspective, for causal probabilistic languages than for pure probabilistic (or “associational”) languages. Despite several senses in which causal reasoning is indeed more complex—both expressively and inferentially—we show that causal entailment (or satisfiability) problems can be systematically and robustly reduced to purely probabilistic problems. Thus there is no jump in computational complexity. Along the way we answer several open problems concerning the complexity of well-known probability logics, in particular demonstrating the
${\exists \mathbb {R}}$
-completeness of a polynomial probability calculus, as well as a seemingly much simpler system, the logic of comparative conditional probability.
Grossgefässvaskulitiden
Authors: Gloor Andrea Daniela , Christ Lisa
Published: May 2022

Zusammenfassung. Gemäss der Chapel-Hill-Konsensus-Konferenz-Nomenklatur von 2012 zählen die Riesenzellarteriitis (RZA) und die Takayasu-Arteriitis (TAK) zu den idiopathischen Grossgefässvaskulitiden. Während die RZA eine typische Erkrankung des älteren Menschen ist, beginnt die TAK im Adoleszenten- und jungen Erwachsenenalter, teilweise schon in der Kindheit. Bei beiden Erkrankungen kommt es durch eine immunvermittelte granulomatöse Gefässwandentzündung der Aorta und ihrer Hauptäste zur Ausbildung von Stenosen, Verschlüssen und Aneurysmen. Die Minderdurchblutung nachgeschalteter Organe führt zu den typischen Beschwerden wie Visusstörungen, ischämischen Muskelschmerzen und Dysästhesien. Typischerweise kommt es neben den lokalen Veränderungen zu einer ausgeprägten Systemreaktion mit konstitutionellen Symptomen wie Temperaturerhöhung, Abgeschlagenheit und Gewichtsverlust. Wird eine RZA oder TAK vermutet, sollte diese stets mittels bildgebender Verfahren (Ultraschall, MRI oder PET-CT) und/oder Histologie bestätigt werden. Neben der Induktionstherapie mit Glukokortikoiden haben steroidsparende Immunsuppressiva wie Tocilizumab und Infliximab in den letzten Jahren zunehmend an Bedeutung gewonnen, sodass die EULAR 2018 ihre Empfehlungen zum Management der Grossgefässvaskulitiden aktualisierten.
Revealing Bias of Cloud Radiative Effect in WRF Simulation: Bias Quantification and Source Attribution
Authors: Shan Yunpeng , Shi Hongrong , Fan Jiwen , Lin Lin , Gao Lan , He Cenlin , Gao Meng , Miao Lijuan , Zhang Lei , Xia Xiangao , Chen Hongbin
Published: May 2022

Accurate prediction of cloud radiative effect (CRE) is important to weather forecast and climate projection, and solar energy production—a major renewable energy source toward decarbonization. Here, we evaluate the capability of the Weather Research and Forecast (WRF) model to simulate solar irradiance on a short‐term timescale (days) against observations in a remote region in north China. Results illustrate that our WRF simulation systematically underestimates the CRE and three error sources are identified: (a) incorrectly predicted cloud occurrence (i.e., missed clouds and false clouds), (b) underestimated cloud condensate mass, and (c) simplified parameterization of solar irradiance extinction. The incorrect cloud occurrence is the leading bias source, because it occurred most frequently and results in a substantial magnitude of errors. The cloud occurrence bias is subject to simulations of large‐scale air ascends and planetary boundary layer turbulence. Even when cloud occurrence is correctly simulated, our WRF simulation still underestimates CRE. This is because (a) the shallow convection scheme and cloud microphysics scheme underestimate cloud condensate mass and (b) cloud water path that feeds in the radiation scheme neglects precipitating cloud condensates (i.e., raindrops and graupels). Furthermore, an evaluation of cases with small bias in cloud condensate mass and effective radius demonstrates the parameterization of solar irradiance extinction for clouds induces a mean root mean square deviation of 110 W/m2. A possible reason is the simplified calculation of cloud extinction efficiency by applying Monte Carlo integration. The gained knowledge is important for understanding CRE simulation and solar irradiance forecast.
The Dashui Subduction Complex in the Eastern Tianshan‐Beishan Orogen (NW China): Long‐Lasting Subduction‐Accretion Terminated by Unique Mid‐Triassic Strike‐Slip Juxtaposition of Arcs in the Southern Altaids
Authors: Wang Kai , Xiao Wenjiao , Windley Brian F. , Mao Qigui , Ji Wenhua , Sang Miao , Huang Peng , Wang Ping
Published: May 2022

Comprehensive studies of the tectonic nature and the formation age of the Dashui complex in the Eastern Tianshan‐Beishan Orogen may address and help to better understand the complicated accretionary tectonics of the southern Altaids. Based on our detailed geological mapping, structural analysis, and understanding of new geochemistry and detrital zircon U‐Pb dating of critical samples, the Dashui complex can be subdivided into one mélange (Central Zone) and two units of forearc basin and slope basin (Northern and Southern Zones). The Northern Zone is composed of debris flows and turbidites. The Central Zone has a “block‐in‐matrix” structure, and the blocks of basalts have E‐MORB or N‐MORB geochemical signatures. The Southern Zone is characterized by debris flows. Therefore, we name these rocks Dashui subduction complex. Detrital zircons from the three zones show a major single age peak at ca. 460–420 Ma and a minor age peak at ca. 280–260 Ma, and the maximum depositional ages from north to south are: 264, 244 and 246 Ma, respectively, indicate that the Dashui subduction complex developed independently within an overall intra‐oceanic arc until ca. 244 Ma, and there must have been a large‐scale tectonic separation between the Central Tianshan Arc to the north and the Shuangyingshan Arc to the south. The structural geometry and kinematics of the Dashui complex and adjacent areas indicate that this complex likely experienced syn‐subduction thrusting and strike‐slip deformation. In particular, the late Xingxingxia strike‐slip faulting finally juxtaposed the Central Tianshan, Mazongshan, and Shuangyingshan arcs.
Particle Nonresolved DNS‐DEM Study of Flocculation Dynamics of Cohesive Sediment in Homogeneous Isotropic Turbulence
Authors: Yu Minglan , Yu Xiao , Balachandar S.
Published: May 2022

A two‐phase Euler‐Lagrangian framework was implemented to investigate the flocculation dynamics of cohesive sediment in isotropic turbulence. The primary particles are modeled as sticky soft spheres using the discrete element method (DEM). The attractive van der Waals forces are modeled by the DLVO theory and the JKR adhesive contact theory. The near steady state equilibrium floc size distribution (FSD) strongly depends on the ratio of the turbulent shear to the floc strength (or particle stickiness). When turbulence is strong, a single peak around the Kolmogorov length scale appears in the FSD, and the distribution fits the Weibull distribution well. A power‐law floc size distribution develops when the floc strength is greater than the destabilizing effect of turbulent shear. Sediment concentration does not significantly affect the shape of FSD or the average floc size. The average apparent floc settling velocity Ws increases with the average floc size. Fractal dimension of flocs decreases with the floc size following a power‐law relation for large flocs. Settling velocity of flocs as a function of floc size also follows a power‐law relation. Deviation from the power‐law relationship is found for large flocs because of their porous nature. At equilibrium stage, the construction by aggregation is balanced with the destruction by breakup, and the construction by breakup is balanced with the destruction by aggregation. The aggregation kernel by turbulent shear and power‐law breakup kernel can describe the dynamics reasonably well for the flocculation of cohesive sediment in homogeneous isotropic turbulence.
Diagnostic Framework for Evaluating How Parametric Uncertainty Influences Agro‐Hydrologic Model Projections of Crop Yields Under Climate Change
Authors: Karimi Tina , Reed Patrick , Malek Keyvan , Adam Jennifer
Published: May 2022

Despite the prevalence of climate change assessments of crop yields, there are significant limits to our understanding of how parametric uncertainty in the underlying agro‐hydrologic models as well as the stationarity assumptions tacit to their commonly employed calibration procedures are influencing projections. This study addresses this knowledge gap by clarifying how parametric uncertainty in agro‐hydrologic models influences yield projections under changing future climate. We focus on rain‐fed winter wheat systems in the drylands of United States Pacific Northwest. We use a tightly coupled agro‐hydrologic model, VIC‐CropSyst, as a representative of this class of models. Our contributed diagnostic global sensitivity analysis framework identifies differences in how influential factors (e.g., temperature during early growth stages or the growing degree‐day required to reach peak leaf area index) vary across zones during historical and future periods. Our results show that the dominant parametric controls for yield projection and their sensitivities change subject to agro‐climatic zones and differences in the specific temperature‐precipitation trends in future climate scenarios. Our results also indicate that the stationarity assumptions tacit to using historical observations to calibrate agro‐hydrologic model parameters and their subsequent use in future yield projections may introduce significant bias. Employing the stationarity assumption in future projections problematically ignores how shifts in climate influence the relative dominance of underlying agro‐hydrologic processes in the model. This study's contributed diagnostic exploratory modeling framework has promise for advancing our understanding of how calibration, parametric uncertainties, and climate induced changes in the dominance of model biophysical processes shape crop yield projections.
Playing It Safe in Field Science
Authors: Cantine Marjorie
Published: May 2022

Researchers face many risks when working in the field. Documenting past and future accidents and safety incidents can help identify patterns and practices to keep scientists out of harm’s way.
Modelling sexual violence in male rats: the sexual aggression test (SxAT)
Authors: de M. Oliveira Vinícius E. , de Jong Trynke R. , Neumann Inga D.
Published: May 2022

Sexual assault and rape are crimes that impact victims worldwide. Although the psychosocial and eco-evolutionary factors associated with this antisocial behavior have repeatedly been studied, the underlying neurobiological mechanisms are still largely unknown. Here, we established a novel paradigm to provoke and subsequently assess sexual aggression (SxA) in adult male Wistar rats: the sexual aggression test (SxAT). Briefly, male Wistar rats are sexually aroused by a receptive female, which is exchanged by a non-receptive female immediately after the first intromission. This protocol elicits forced mounting and aggressive behavior toward the non-receptive female to different degrees, which can be scored. In a series of experiments we have shown that SxA behavior is a relatively stable trait in rats and correlates positively with sexual motivation. Rats with innate abnormal anxiety and aggressive behavior also show abnormal SxA behavior. In addition, central infusion of oxytocin moderately inhibits aggressive behavior, but increases forced mounting. Finally, we identified the agranular insular cortex to be specifically activated by SxA, however, inhibition of this region did not significantly alter behavior in the SxAT. Altogether, the SxAT is a paradigm that can be readily implemented in behavioral laboratories as a valuable tool to find answers regarding the biological mechanisms underlying SxA in humans, as well as social decision-making in general.
AK2 is an AMP-sensing negative regulator of BRAF in tumorigenesis
Authors: Kim Hyunjoo , Jeong Muhah , Na Do-Hyeong , Ryu Shin-Hyeon , Jeong Eun Il , Jung Kwangmin , Kang Jaemin , Lee Ho-June , Sim Taebo , Yu Dae-Yeul , Yu Hee Chul , Cho Baik-Hwan , Jung Yong-Keun
Published: May 2022

The RAS–BRAF signaling is a major pathway of cell proliferation and their mutations are frequently found in human cancers. Adenylate kinase 2 (AK2), which modulates balance of adenine nucleotide pool, has been implicated in cell death and cell proliferation independently of its enzyme activity. Recently, the role of AK2 in tumorigenesis was in part elucidated in some cancer types including lung adenocarcinoma and breast cancer, but the underlying mechanism is not clear. Here, we show that AK2 is a BRAF-suppressor. In in vitro assays and cell model, AK2 interacted with BRAF and inhibited BRAF activity and downstream ERK phosphorylation. Energy-deprived conditions in cell model and the addition of AMP to cell lysates strengthened the AK2-BRAF interaction, suggesting that AK2 is involved in the regulation of BRAF activity in response to cell metabolic state. AMP facilitated the AK2–BRAF complex formation through binding to AK2. In a panel of HCC cell lines, AK2 expression was inversely correlated with ERK/MAPK activation, and AK2-knockdown or -knockout increased BRAF activity and promoted cell proliferation. Tumors from HCC patients showed low-AK2 protein expression and increased ERK activation compared to non-tumor tissues and the downregulation of AK2 was also verified by two microarray datasets (TCGA-LIHC and GSE14520). Moreover, AK2/BRAF interaction was abrogated by RAS activation in in vitro assay and cell model and in a mouse model of HRASG12V-driven HCC, and AK2 ablation promoted tumor growth and BRAF activity. AK2 also bound to BRAF inhibitor-insensitive BRAF mutants and attenuated their activities. These findings indicate that AK2 monitoring cellular AMP levels is indeed a negative regulator of BRAF, linking the metabolic status to tumor growth.
A novel 3’tRNA-derived fragment tRF-Val promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis by targeting EEF1A1 in gastric cancer
Authors: Cui Huaiping , Li Han , Wu Hao , Du Fengying , Xie Xiaozhou , Zeng Shujie , Zhang Zihao , Dong Kangdi , Shang Liang , Jing Changqing , Li Leping
Published: May 2022

At present, it is commonly believed that tRFs and tiRNAs are formed by the specific and selective shear of tRNAs under certain pressure stimulation, rather than by random degradation of tRNA. tRFs and tiRNAs have been reported to contribute to the biological process of a variety of human cancers. However, the evidence for the mechanisms of tRFs and tiRNAs in the occurrence and development of gastric cancer (GC) is still insufficient. Here, we aimed to explore the carcinogenic roles of tRFs and tiRNAs in GC with RNA-sequencing technique, and found a novel 3’tRNA-derived fragment tRF-Val was significantly upregulated in GC tissues and cell lines. tRF-Val expression was positively correlated with tumor size and the depth of tumor invasion in GC tissues. Functionally, tRF-Val promoted proliferation and invasion, and inhibited apoptosis in GC cells. Mechanistically, tRF-Val directly bound to the chaperone molecule EEF1A1, mediated its transport into the nucleus and promoted its interaction with MDM2 (a specific p53 E3 ubiquitin ligase), thus inhibiting the downstream molecular pathway of p53 and promoting GC progression. These findings provided a new potential therapeutic target for GC and a new explanation for the occurrence of GC.
Visual barcodes for clonal-multiplexing of live microscopy-based assays
Authors: Kaufman Tom , Nitzan Erez , Firestein Nir , Ginzberg Miriam Bracha , Iyengar Seshu , Patel Nish , Ben-Hamo Rotem , Porat Ziv , Hunter Jaryd , Hilfinger Andreas , Rotter Varda , Kafri Ran , Straussman Ravid
Published: May 2022

While multiplexing samples using DNA barcoding revolutionized the pace of biomedical discovery, multiplexing of live imaging-based applications has been limited by the number of fluorescent proteins that can be deconvoluted using common microscopy equipment. To address this limitation, we develop visual barcodes that discriminate the clonal identity of single cells by different fluorescent proteins that are targeted to specific subcellular locations. We demonstrate that deconvolution of these barcodes is highly accurate and robust to many cellular perturbations. We then use visual barcodes to generate ‘Signalome’ cell-lines by mixing 12 clones of different live reporters into a single population, allowing simultaneous monitoring of the activity in 12 branches of signaling, at clonal resolution, over time. Using the ‘Signalome’ we identify two distinct clusters of signaling pathways that balance growth and proliferation, emphasizing the importance of growth homeostasis as a central organizing principle in cancer signaling. The ability to multiplex samples in live imaging applications, both in vitro and in vivo may allow better high-content characterization of complex biological systems.
Large-scale GWAS of food liking reveals genetic determinants and genetic correlations with distinct neurophysiological traits
Authors: May-Wilson Sebastian , Matoba Nana , Wade Kaitlin H. , Hottenga Jouke-Jan , Concas Maria Pina , Mangino Massimo , Grzeszkowiak Eryk J. , Menni Cristina , Gasparini Paolo , Timpson Nicholas J. , Veldhuizen Maria G. , de Geus Eco , Wilson James F. , Pirastu Nicola
Published: May 2022

We present the results of a GWAS of food liking conducted on 161,625 participants from the UK-Biobank. Liking was assessed over 139 specific foods using a 9-point scale. Genetic correlations coupled with structural equation modelling identified a multi-level hierarchical map of food-liking with three main dimensions: “Highly-palatable”, “Acquired” and “Low-caloric”. The Highly-palatable dimension is genetically uncorrelated from the other two, suggesting that independent processes underlie liking high reward foods. This is confirmed by genetic correlations with MRI brain traits which show with distinct associations. Comparison with the corresponding food consumption traits shows a high genetic correlation, while liking exhibits twice the heritability. GWAS analysis identified 1,401 significant food-liking associations which showed substantial agreement in the direction of effects with 11 independent cohorts. In conclusion, we created a comprehensive map of the genetic determinants and associated neurophysiological factors of food-liking.
Global diversity dynamics in the fossil record are regionally heterogeneous
Authors: Flannery-Sutherland Joseph T. , Silvestro Daniele , Benton Michael J.
Published: May 2022

Global diversity patterns in the fossil record comprise a mosaic of regional trends, underpinned by spatially non-random drivers and distorted by variation in sampling intensity through time and across space. Sampling-corrected diversity estimates from spatially-standardised fossil datasets retain their regional biogeographic nuances and avoid these biases, yet diversity-through-time arises from the interplay of origination and extinction, the processes that shape macroevolutionary history. Here we present a subsampling algorithm to eliminate spatial sampling bias, coupled with advanced probabilistic methods for estimating origination and extinction rates and a Bayesian method for estimating sampling-corrected diversity. We then re-examine the Late Permian to Early Jurassic marine fossil record, an interval spanning several global biotic upheavals that shaped the origins of the modern marine biosphere. We find that origination and extinction rates are regionally heterogenous even during events that manifested globally, highlighting the need for spatially explicit views of macroevolutionary processes through geological time.
Breaking scaling relationships in alkynol semi-hydrogenation by manipulating interstitial atoms in Pd with d-electron gain
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhu Xiaojuan , Wang Lili , Lang Junyu , Yao Guohua , Qin Tian , Ren Zhouhong , Chen Liwei , Liu Xi , Li Wei , Wan Ying
Published: May 2022

Pd catalysts are widely used in alkynol semi-hydrogenation. However, due to the existence of scaling relationships of adsorption energies between the key adsorbed species, the increase in conversion is frequently accompanied by side reactions, thereby reducing the selectivity to alkenols. We report that the simultaneous increase in alkenol selectivity and alkynol conversion is achieved by manipulating interstitial atoms including B, P, C, S and N in Pd catalysts. A negative linear relationship is observed between the activation entropies of 2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol and 2-methyl-3-buten-2-ol which is highly related to the filling of d-orbital of Pd catalysts by the modification of p-block elements. A catalyst co-modified by B and C atoms has the maximum d charge of Pd that achieves a 17-fold increase in the turn-over frequency values compared to the Lindlar catalysts in the semi-hydrogenation of 2-methyl-3-butyn-2-ol. When the conversion is close to 100%, the selectivity can be as high as 95%.
Uncovering material deformations via machine learning combined with four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Shi Chuqiao , Cao Michael C. , Rehn Sarah M. , Bae Sang-Hoon , Kim Jeehwan , Jones Matthew R. , Muller David A. , Han Yimo
Published: May 2022

Understanding lattice deformations is crucial in determining the properties of nanomaterials, which can become more prominent in future applications ranging from energy harvesting to electronic devices. However, it remains challenging to reveal unexpected deformations that crucially affect material properties across a large sample area. Here, we demonstrate a rapid and semi-automated unsupervised machine learning approach to uncover lattice deformations in materials. Our method utilizes divisive hierarchical clustering to automatically unveil multi-scale deformations in the entire sample flake from the diffraction data using four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D-STEM). Our approach overcomes the current barriers of large 4D data analysis without a priori knowledge of the sample. Using this purely data-driven analysis, we have uncovered different types of material deformations, such as strain, lattice distortion, bending contour, etc., which can significantly impact the band structure and subsequent performance of nanomaterials-based devices. We envision that this data-driven procedure will provide insight into materials’ intrinsic structures and accelerate the discovery of materials.
Optically induced nuclear spin–spin couplings in GaAs manifested by spin echo decays under optical pumping
Authors: Goto Atsushi , Hashi Kenjiro , Ohki Shinobu , Shimizu Tadashi
Published: May 2022

Optically induced nuclear spin–spin coupling in semiconductors is expected to serve for gate operations in nuclear-magnetic-resonance (NMR) quantum computations. However, not much is known about its characteristics. In this study, we investigate optically induced couplings in GaAs via double-resonance spin-echo decay experiments under optical pumping. The squared echo decay rate $$\left( {1/T_2} \right)^2$$

1
/

T

2

2

of 71Ga measured under various light powers revealed that optically induced couplings increase with increasing light power, and the sign of heteronuclear couplings between Ga–As pairs is opposite to that of dipolar couplings, which cancel each other out. Under higher light power, the optically induced “controllable” coupling is expected to eventually surpass the “uncontrollable” nuclear dipolar coupling, becoming dominant, which is preferable for the gate operation in NMR quantum computation.
Synergistic HNO3–H2SO4–NH3 upper tropospheric particle formation
Authors: Wang Mingyi , Xiao Mao , Bertozzi Barbara , Marie Guillaume , Rörup Birte , Schulze Benjamin , Bardakov Roman , He Xu-Cheng , Shen Jiali , Scholz Wiebke , Marten Ruby , Dada Lubna , Baalbaki Rima , Lopez Brandon , Lamkaddam Houssni , Manninen Hanna E. , Amorim António , Ataei Farnoush , Bogert Pia , Brasseur Zoé , Caudillo Lucía , De Menezes Louis-Philippe , Duplissy Jonathan , Ekman Annica M. L. , Finkenzeller Henning , Carracedo Loïc Gonzalez , Granzin Manuel , Guida Roberto , Heinritzi Martin , Hofbauer Victoria , Höhler Kristina , Korhonen Kimmo , Krechmer Jordan E. , Kürten Andreas , Lehtipalo Katrianne , Mahfouz Naser G. A. , Makhmutov Vladimir , Massabò Dario , Mathot Serge , Mauldin Roy L. , Mentler Bernhard , Müller Tatjana , Onnela Antti , Petäjä Tuukka , Philippov Maxim , Piedehierro Ana A. , Pozzer Andrea , Ranjithkumar Ananth , Schervish Meredith , Schobesberger Siegfried , Simon Mario , Stozhkov Yuri , Tomé António , Umo Nsikanabasi Silas , Vogel Franziska , Wagner Robert , Wang Dongyu S. , Weber Stefan K. , Welti André , Wu Yusheng , Zauner-Wieczorek Marcel , Sipilä Mikko , Winkler Paul M. , Hansel Armin , Baltensperger Urs , Kulmala Markku , Flagan Richard C. , Curtius Joachim , Riipinen Ilona , Gordon Hamish , Lelieveld Jos , El-Haddad Imad , Volkamer Rainer , Worsnop Douglas R. , Christoudias Theodoros , Kirkby Jasper , Möhler Ottmar , Donahue Neil M.
Published: May 2022

New particle formation in the upper free troposphere is a major global source of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN)1–4. However, the precursor vapours that drive the process are not well understood. With experiments performed under upper tropospheric conditions in the CERN CLOUD chamber, we show that nitric acid, sulfuric acid and ammonia form particles synergistically, at rates that are orders of magnitude faster than those from any two of the three components. The importance of this mechanism depends on the availability of ammonia, which was previously thought to be efficiently scavenged by cloud droplets during convection. However, surprisingly high concentrations of ammonia and ammonium nitrate have recently been observed in the upper troposphere over the Asian monsoon region5,6. Once particles have formed, co-condensation of ammonia and abundant nitric acid alone is sufficient to drive rapid growth to CCN sizes with only trace sulfate. Moreover, our measurements show that these CCN are also highly efficient ice nucleating particles—comparable to desert dust. Our model simulations confirm that ammonia is efficiently convected aloft during the Asian monsoon, driving rapid, multi-acid HNO3–H2SO4–NH3nucleation in the upper troposphere and producing ice nucleating particles that spread across the mid-latitude Northern Hemisphere.
A trail of dark-matter-free galaxies from a bullet-dwarf collision
Authors: van Dokkum Pieter , Shen Zili , Keim Michael A. , Trujillo-Gomez Sebastian , Danieli Shany , Dutta Chowdhury Dhruba , Abraham Roberto , Conroy Charlie , Kruijssen J. M. Diederik , Nagai Daisuke , Romanowsky Aaron
Published: May 2022

The ultra-diffuse galaxies DF2 and DF4 in the NGC 1052 group share several unusual properties: they both have large sizes1, rich populations of overluminous and large globular clusters2–6, and very low velocity dispersions that indicate little or no dark matter7–10. It has been suggested that these galaxies were formed in the aftermath of high-velocity collisions of gas-rich galaxies11–13, events that resemble the collision that created the bullet cluster14 but on much smaller scales. The gas separates from the dark matter in the collision and subsequent star formation leads to the formation of one or more dark-matter-free galaxies12. Here we show that the present-day line-of-sight distances and radial velocities of DF2 and DF4 are consistent with their joint formation in the aftermath of a single bullet-dwarf collision, around eight billion years ago. Moreover, we find that DF2 and DF4 are part of an apparent linear substructure of seven to eleven large, low-luminosity objects. We propose that these all originated in the same event, forming a trail of dark-matter-free galaxies that is roughly more than two megaparsecs long and angled 7° ± 2° from the line of sight. We also tentatively identify the highly dark-matter-dominated remnants of the two progenitor galaxies that are expected11 at the leading edges of the trail.
The VISTA datasets, a combination of inertial sensors and depth cameras data for activity recognition
Authors: Fiorini Laura , Cornacchia Loizzo Federica Gabriella , Sorrentino Alessandra , Rovini Erika , Di Nuovo Alessandro , Cavallo Filippo
Published: May 2022

This paper makes the VISTA database, composed of inertial and visual data, publicly available for gesture and activity recognition. The inertial data were acquired with the SensHand, which can capture the movement of wrist, thumb, index and middle fingers, while the RGB-D visual data were acquired simultaneously from two different points of view, front and side. The VISTA database was acquired in two experimental phases: in the former, the participants have been asked to perform 10 different actions; in the latter, they had to execute five scenes of daily living, which corresponded to a combination of the actions of the selected actions. In both phase, Pepper interacted with participants. The two camera point of views mimic the different point of view of pepper. Overall, the dataset includes 7682 action instances for the training phase and 3361 action instances for the testing phase. It can be seen as a framework for future studies on artificial intelligence techniques for activity recognition, including inertial-only data, visual-only data, or a sensor fusion approach.
No alteration of back muscle oxygenation during isometric exercise in individuals with non-specific low back pain
Authors: Langenfeld Anke , Wirth Brigitte , Scherer-Vrana Andrea , Riner Fabienne , Gaehwiler Kyra , Valdivieso Paola , Humphreys B. Kim , Scholkmann Felix , Flueck Martin , Schweinhardt Petra
Published: May 2022

The aim of our study was (I) To compare back muscle oxygenation and perfusion as well as Biering–Sorensen muscle endurance (BSME) test holding times between chronic non-specific low back pain (CNSLBP) patients and asymptomatic controls matched for age, body mass index (BMI), sex and physical activity, and (II) to investigate factors associated with BSME holding times. Muscle perfusion (tHb) and oxygenation (SmO2) were measured by near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) based oximetry in three back muscles during the BSME. Reliability of tHb and SmO2 was assessed in a separate sample. BSME holding time and SmO2 were compared between patients (n = 45) and controls (n = 45) and factors associated with BSME holding time were assessed using multiple linear regression. Reliability for SmO2 was excellent (ICC = 0.87–0.99). THb showed poor to moderate reliability and was not further used. Groups differed for BSME holding time (P = 0.03), pain intensity (P ≤ 0.0005) and subcutaneous tissue thickness (P = 0.01) but not for NIRS measures. Physical activity and BMI were associated with BSME holding times. Insufficient muscle oxygenation does not seem to be a major factor contributing to CNSLBP. Future investigation should evaluate other determinants of BSME holding times, such as motivation and recruitment of auxiliary muscles.
Efficiency in the evolution of metro networks
Authors: Pei Aihui , Xiao Feng , Yu Senbin , Li Lili
Published: May 2022

Metro systems extended rapidly in China, especially in the last decade, developing over a half-century. This work explores the dynamical evolution of the structural efficiency of metro systems interpreted as complex networks for 14 large cities in mainland China. Based on the empirical observations, we find that the global efficiencies scale with the number of stations and counter-intuitively decreases as the metro networks expand, which shows a long-tail characteristic. The evolution of metro networks is, in essence, the improvement of the relative ratio of average nodal efficiency in the core compared to global efficiency. These relationships are in good agreement with the temporal structure of metro networks. Besides, we find that the metro stations with the higher efficiencies are those surrounding the urban center, and most of them dwell within the core and gradually expand the branches in space. Our findings suggest that the evolution properties of metro systems influenced by numerous geographical, historical, and social activities suggest that underlying, universal mechanisms are at play during their evolution in the spatial–temporal dimension.
Changes in global DNA methylation under climatic stress in two related grasses suggest a possible role of epigenetics in the ecological success of polyploids
Authors: Tomczyk Przemysław P. , Kiedrzyński Marcin , Forma Ewa , Zielińska Katarzyna M. , Kiedrzyńska Edyta
Published: May 2022

Polyploidization drives the evolution of grasses and can result in epigenetic changes, which may have a role in the creation of new evolutionary lineages and ecological speciation. As such changes may be inherited, they can also influence adaptation to the environment. Populations from different regions and climates may also differ epigenetically; however, this phenomenon is poorly understood. The present study analyzes the effect of climatic stress on global DNA methylation based on a garden collection of two related mountain grasses (the narrow endemic diploid Festuca tatrae and the more widely distributed mixed-ploidy F. amethystina) with different geographic ranges and ecological niches. A lower level of DNA methylation was observed for F. tatrae, while a higher mean level was obtained for the diploid and tetraploid of F. amethystina; with the tetraploids having a higher level of global methylated DNA than the diploids. The weather conditions (especially insolation) measured 24 h prior to sampling appeared to have a closer relationship with global DNA methylation level than those observed seven days before sampling. Our findings suggest that the level of methylation during stress conditions (drought, high temperature and high insolation) may be significantly influenced by the ploidy level and bioclimatic provenance of specimens; however an important role may also be played by the intensity of stress conditions in a given year.
Discovery of Late Triassic bivalves from Jurassic deep-water deposits in Riganpeicuo area, Tibet and their geological significance
Authors: Xiao Hongji , Luo Shenglong , Gao Jinhan , Wang Genhou
Published: May 2022

The Jurassic sequences in the South Qiangtang Basin of Tibet are essential for understanding the paleogeography and tectonic evolution of this basin and the Bangong-Nujiang Meso-Tethys Ocean (BNMO). However, the partial absence of fossils hinders the study of the stratigraphic distribution and tectonic paleogeography of the basin. Late Triassic bivalves, including nine species in nine genera, were identified for the first time in olistostromes from the Sêwa Formation in the Riganpeicuo area. Based on detailed geological field surveys and sedimentary facies analysis, the lower-middle part of the Rigenco section is a deep-water turbidite fan deposit and the upper part is a shallow sea mixed shelf deposit, which differs distinctively from the carbonate platform facies of the Jiebuqu Formation. Therefore, the strata formerly assigned to the Jiebuqu Formation (Rigenco section) is formally reassigned to the Lower-Middle Jurassic Sêwa Formation and Middle Jurassic Shaqiaomu Formation. These results not only provide further understanding of the sedimentary infill history of the South Qiangtang Basin, but also further support that the BNMO was already open in the Late Triassic and formed a mature ocean in the Early-Middle Jurassic, with subsequent rapid subduction. Both the opening and subduction processes were completed in a relatively short time interval with a large number of attendant olistostromes.
Terrestrial forcing of marine biodiversification
Authors: Martin Ronald E. , Cárdenas Andrés L.
Published: May 2022

The diversification of the three major marine faunas during the Phanerozoic was intimately coupled to the evolution of the biogeochemical cycles of carbon and nutrients via nutrient runoff from land and the diversification of phosphorus-rich phytoplankton. Nutrient input to the oceans has previously been demonstrated to have occurred in response to orogeny and fueling marine diversification. Although volcanism has typically been associated with extinction, the eruption of continental Large Igneous Provinces (LIPs) is also a very significant, but previously overlooked, source of phosphorus involved in the diversification of the marine biosphere. We demonstrate that phosphorus input to the oceans peaked repeatedly following the eruption and weathering of LIPs, stimulating the diversification of nutrient-rich calcareous and siliceous phytoplankton at the base of marine food webs that in turn helped fuel diversification at higher levels. These developments were likely furthered by the evolution of terrestrial floras. Results for the Meso-Cenozoic hold implications for the Paleozoic Era. Early-to-middle Paleozoic diversity was, in contrast to the Meso-Cenozoic, limited by nutrient-poor phytoplankton resulting from less frequent tectonism and poorly-developed terrestrial floras. Nutrient runoff and primary productivity during the Permo-Carboniferous likely increased, based on widespread orogeny, the spread of deeper-rooting forests, the fossil record of phytoplankton, and biogeochemical indices. Our results suggest that marine biodiversity on geologic time scales is unbounded (unlimited), provided sufficient habitat, nutrients, and nutrient-rich phytoplankton are also available in optimal amounts and on optimal timescales.
Simultaneous electrochemical determination of morphine and methadone by using CMK-5 mesoporous carbon and multivariate calibration
Authors: Habibi Mohammad Mehdi , Ghasemi Jahan B. , Badiei Alireza , Norouzi Parviz
Published: May 2022

For the first time, a sensitive electrochemical sensor using a glassy carbon electrode modified with CMK-5 Ordered mesoporous carbon was fabricated for simultaneous analysis of morphine and methadone. Modern electrochemical FFT-SWV techniques and partial least-squares as a multivariable analysis were used in this method. CMK-5 nanostructures were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and Raman spectroscopy. Variables such as accumulation time and pH for the proposed sensor were optimized before quantitative analysis. To train the proposed sensor, standard mixtures of morphine (MOR), and methadone (MET) were prepared in the established linear ranges of the analyzes. The results obtained from training samples were used for PLS modeling. The efficiency of the model was determined using test and real matrix samples. The root mean square error of prediction and the squared correlation coefficients (R2p) for MET and MOR were estimated to be 0.00772 and 0.00892 and 0.948 to 0.990, respectively. The recoveries in urine samples were reported to be 97.0 and 105.6% for both MOR and MET, respectively.
Ab-initio Study of structural, elastic, electronic and optical properties of hexahalometallate single crystals K2XBr6(X = Se, Pt)
Authors: Naceur Y. , Bourbaba H. , Ghebouli M. A. , Krache L. , Ghebouli B. , Chihi T. , Fatmi M. , Alomairy Sultan
Published: May 2022

Some physical properties of hexahalometallate K2XBr6(X = Se, Pt) were computed in the zinc blend structure using GGA-PBESOL. The cell constant of K2SeBr6 and K2PtBr6 is consistent to the experiment value quoted in the literature, where the error is 0.95% and 1%. K2SeBr6 and K2PtBr6 present covalent bonding, high anisotropy and are ductile. The elastic constants of K2SeBr6 and K2PtBr6 are significantly smaller due to their larger reticular distances, lower Coulomb forces and then they are soft and damage tolerant. The interatomic separation is greater in K2SeBr6 than in K2PtBr6, hence the Coulomb interaction in K2PtBr6 is greater than that of K2SeBr6. The internal coordinate of Br atom in K2PtBr6 is lower than that of the same atom in K2SeBr6, and this can be explained by the fact that it is inversely proportional to the atom radius of Se and Pt. There are two major plasmonic processes, with intensities 3.7 and 1.35 located around 53.5 nm and 72.8 nm for K2SeBr6 and K2PtBr6.
German federal-state-wide seroprevalence study of 1st SARS-CoV-2 pandemic wave shows importance of long-term antibody test performance
Authors: Lohse Stefan , Sternjakob-Marthaler Anna , Lagemann Paul , Schöpe Jakob , Rissland Jürgen , Seiwert Nastasja , Pfuhl Thorsten , Müllendorff Alana , Kiefer Laurent S. , Vogelgesang Markus , Vella Luca , Denk Katharina , Vicari Julia , Zwick Anabel , Lang Isabelle , Weber Gero , Geisel Jürgen , Rech Jörg , Schnabel Bernd , Hauptmann Gunter , Holleczek Bernd , Scheiblauer Heinrich , Wagenpfeil Stefan , Smola Sigrun
Published: May 2022

Background

Reliable data on the adult SARS-CoV-2 infection fatality rate in Germany are still scarce. We performed a federal state-wide cross-sectional seroprevalence study named SaarCoPS, that is representative for the adult population including elderly individuals and nursing home residents in the Saarland.

Methods

Serum was collected from 2940 adults via stationary or mobile teams during the 1stpandemic wave steady state period. We selected an antibody test system with maximal specificity, also excluding seroreversion effects due to a high longitudinal test performance. For the calculations of infection and fatality rates, we accounted for the delays of seroconversion and death after infection.

Results

Using a highly specific total antibody test detecting anti-SARS-CoV-2 responses over more than 180 days, we estimate an adult infection rate of 1.02% (95% CI: [0.64; 1.44]), an underreporting rate of 2.68-fold (95% CI: [1.68; 3.79]) and infection fatality rates of 2.09% (95% CI: (1.48; 3.32]) or 0.36% (95% CI: [0.25; 0.59]) in all adults including elderly individuals, or adults younger than 70 years, respectively.

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of study design and test performance for seroprevalence studies, particularly when seroprevalences are low. Our results provide a valuable baseline for evaluation of future pandemic dynamics and impact of public health measures on virus spread and human health in comparison to neighbouring countries such as Luxembourg or France.
In situ generation and evolution of polymer toroids by liquid crystallization-assisted seeded dispersion polymerization
Authors: Zheng Mingxin , Ye Qiquan , Chen Xi , Zeng Min , Song Guangjie , Zhang Jun , Yuan Jinying
Published: May 2022

Azobenzene-containing triblock copolymer toroids have been prepared effectively by synchronous liquid crystallization and seeded dispersion polymerization.
Robust visible-light photocatalytic H2 evolution on 2D RGO/Cd0.15Zn0.85In2S4–Ni2P hierarchitectures
Authors: Lin Haifeng , Sui Xue , Wu Jiakun , Shi Qiqi , Chen Hanchu , Wang Hui , Li Shaoxiang , Li Yanyan , Wang Lei , Tam Kam Chiu
Published: May 2022

Unique 2D ternary hierarchitectures constructed from reduced graphene oxide nanosheets grown with ultrathin Cd0.15Zn0.85In2S4 nanosheets and Ni2P nanoparticles exhibited an outstanding capability for visible-light photocatalytic H2 production.
Life cycle analysis and sustainability comparison of reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography and carbon dioxide-containing chromatography of small molecule pharmaceuticals
Authors: Fitch Brian N. , Gray Rebekah , Beres Martin , Hicks Michael B. , Farrell William , Aurigemma Christine , Olesik Susan V.
Published: May 2022

Life cycle analysis allows comparison of RP-HPLC to SFC.
Synergistic effects of side-functionalization and aza-substitution on the charge transport and optical properties of perylene-based organic materials: a DFT study
Authors: Debata Suryakanti , Khatua Rudranarayan , Sahu Sridhar
Published: May 2022

The physicochemical properties of organic materials are subject to the chemical structure of the molecular unit and the arrangement of molecules in a crystal.
Microfluidic flow cytometry for blood-based biomarker analysis
Authors: Zhang Yuxin , Zhao Ying , Cole Tim , Zheng Jiahao , Bayinqiaoge  , Guo Jinhong , Tang Shi-Yang
Published: May 2022

This review summarises the recent major developments of the key subsystems for microfluidic flow cytometry and its achievements in blood-based biomarker analysis.
Solid-state nanopore analysis on the conformation change of DNA polymerase I induced by a DNA substrate
Authors: Fu Jiye , Wu Linlin , Hu Gang , Li Fuyao , Ge Qinyu , Lu Zuhong , Tu Jing
Published: May 2022

We studied the conformational changes between a Klenow fragment and its monomer complex with a DNA substrate using a SiN nanopore and found that the monomer complex has a tighter structure and transports slower.
Air-stable plasmonic bubbles as a versatile three-dimensional surface-enhanced Raman scattering platform for bi-directional gas sensing
Authors: Leong Yong Xiang , Koh Charlynn Sher Lin , Phan-Quang Gia Chuong , Tan Emily Xi , Wong Zhao Cai , Yew Wee Liang , Lim Bao Ying Natalie , Han Xuemei , Ling Xing Yi
Published: May 2022

‘Plasmonic bubbles’ as a versatile, air-stable, centimetre-sized 3D SERS platform with bi-directional gas sensing capabilities.
Tuning the photophysical properties of luminescent lanthanide complexes through regioselective antenna fluorination
Authors: Kocsi Daniel , Orthaber Andreas , Borbas K. Eszter
Published: May 2022

Carbostyrils monofluorinated in the 3, 5, or 6 positions were synthesised via a photochemical isomerisation-cyclisation route, and incorporated into octadentate cyclen triacetate ligands that formed luminescent Tb(iii) and Eu(iii) complexes.
Bis[cyclic (alkyl)(amino)carbene] isomers: Stable trans-bis(CAAC) versus facile olefin formation for cis-bis(CAAC)
Authors: Puerta Lombardi Braulio M. , Pezoulas Ethan R. , Suvinen Roope A. , Harrison Alexander , Dubrawski Zachary S. , Gelfand Benjamin S. , Tuononen Heikki M. , Roesler Roland
Published: May 2022

A trans-bis(CAAC) was isolated and shown to be a ditopic ligand for rhodium and iridium. The cis-isomer is unstable towards intramolecular CC-bond formation, however, its formal insertion products into the bonds of H2O and NH3 were identified.
Activating the neutral pH photozymatic activity of g-C3N4 nanosheets through post-synthetic incorporation of Pt
Authors: Li Xue , Li Xianming , Chen Qian , Chen Junbo , Wu Peng
Published: May 2022

Through simple post-synthetic incorporation of Pt, the neutral pH photozyamtic activity of g-C3N4 photozyme was activated. Besides, this is the first photozyme showing enzymatic activity (substrate oxidation) at pH 9.5.