bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geomorphological record and equilibrium line altitude of glaciers during the last glacial maximum in the Rodna Mountains (eastern Carpathians)
Authors: Kłapyta Piotr , Mîndrescu Marcel , Zasadni Jerzy
Published: November 2020

In the eastern Carpathians the legacy of glaciation is preserved in several isolated mountain massifs. This paper presents new mapping results of glaciated valley land systems in the Rodna Mountains, the highest part of the eastern Carpathians (2303 m above seal level). In most of the glacial valleys, the maximal Pleistocene extent is marked by freshly shaped moraines, which are referred in this study as the Pietroasa glacial stage and regarded as the last glacial maximum (LGM) advance. Only in three valleys do older Şesura glacial stage moraines (pre-LGM, likely Marine Oxygen Isotope Stage 6) occur. On the basis of the geomorphological record, we reconstruct the extent, surface geometry, and equilibrium line altitude (ELA) of Pietroasa-stage glaciers. The local ELA pattern of north-exposed glaciers in the Rodna Mountains shows a rising trend towards the southeast, which suggests dominant snow-bearing winds and orographically induced precipitation from the west. This finding fits well with the dominant palaeo-wind direction inferred from other Carpathian proxies and confirms the dominance of zonal circulation pattern during the global LGM in central eastern Europe.
Backcross breeding for improvement of heat tolerance at reproductive phase in Thai rice (Oryza sativaL.) varieties
Authors: Malumpong C. , Buadchee R. , Thammasamisorn B. , Moung-ngam P. , Wasuri B. , Saensuk C. , Arikit S. , Vannavichit A. , Cheabu S.
Published: November 2020

Heat stress during the reproductive and grain-filling stages leads to severe yield losses in rice, especially in irrigated areas during the dry season in Thailand. Thus, breeding for heat-tolerant rice is one of the strategies for developing rice crops adapted to the effects of high temperature in major growing regions. M9962, a fast neutron-induced mutant, was identified as a heat-tolerant line that was then used as a donor parent and crossed with the Phisanulok 2 (PSL2) cultivar (the recurrent parent) in a backcross breeding programme. Heat tolerance scoring under controlled greenhouse and field conditions was based on the percentage of spikelet fertility. Yield trials for the BC2F7and BC3F6lines were subsequently conducted under field conditions at three locations and under controlled greenhouse conditions during the dry season of 2019 (DS2019). In the early generation, 210 plants of the BC1F1population and 440 plants of BC2F1population were evaluated for their heat tolerance, and the spikelet fertility distribution within the BC1F1, BC2F1and BC3F1populations showed a skewed-right pattern. In addition, most rice plants in every generation were heat sensitive. Finally, compared with PSL2, the four-candidate heat-tolerant lines exhibited a high percentage of spikelet fertility and high yield. In addition, the one candidate line, BC2F7-6-5-4-1-1-21 was most similar to PSL2 in terms of genetic background, plant type and grain quality. Thus, backcross breeding programmes via the spikelet fertility can be used as an indirect trait to select for heat tolerance.
Functional disconnection between subsystems of the default mode network in schizophrenia
Authors: Fan Fengmei , Tan Shuping , Huang Junchao , Chen Song , Fan Hongzhen , Wang Zhiren , Li Chiang-Shan R. , Tan Yunlong
Published: November 2020

Background

A dysfunctional default mode network (DMN) has been reported in patients with schizophrenia. However, the stability of the deficits has not been determined across different stages of the disorder.

Methods

We examined the functional connectivity of the DMN subsystems of 125 patients with first-episode schizophrenia (FES) or recurrent schizophrenia (RES), compared to that of 82 healthy controls. We tested the robustness of the findings in an independent cohort of 158 patients and 39 healthy controls. We performed resting-state functional connectivity analysis, and examined the strength of the connections within and between the three subsystems of the DMN (core, dorsal medial prefrontal cortex [dMPFC], and medial temporal lobe [MTL]). We also analyzed the connectivity correlations to symptoms and illness duration.

Results

We found reduced connectivity strength between the core and MTL subsystems in schizophrenia patients compared to controls, with no differences between the FES and RES patient groups; these findings were validated in the second sample. Schizophrenia patients also showed a significant reduction in connectivity within the MTL and between the dMPFC−MTL subsystems, similarly between FES and RES groups. The connectivity strength within the core subsystem was negatively correlated with clinical symptoms in schizophrenia. There was no significant correlation between the DMN subsystem connectivity and illness duration.

Conclusions

DMN subsystem connectivity deficits are present in schizophrenia, and the homochronicity of their appearance indicates the trait-like nature of these alterations. The DMN deficit may be useful for early diagnosis, and MTL dysfunction may be a crucial mechanism underlying schizophrenia.
Occupancy of two forest specialist birds in the Southern Mistbelt Forests of KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape, South Africa
Authors: GUMEDE S. THOBEKA , EHLERS SMITH DAVID A. , EHLERS SMITH YVETTE C. , NGCOBO SAMUKELISIWE P. , SOSIBO MBALENHLE T. , MASEKO MFUNDO S. T. , DOWNS COLLEEN T.
Published: November 2020

Establishing the specific habitat requirements of forest specialists in fragmented natural habitats is vital for their conservation. We used camera-trap surveys and microhabitat-scale covariates to assess the habitat requirements, probability of occupancy and detection of two terrestrial forest specialist species, the Orange Ground-thrushGeokichla gurneyiand the Lemon DoveAplopelia larvataduring the breeding and non-breeding seasons of 2018–2019 in selected Southern Mistbelt Forests of KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, South Africa. A series of camera-trap surveys over 21 days were conducted in conjunction with surveys of microhabitat structural covariates. During the wet season, percentage of leaf litter cover, short grass cover, short herb cover, tall herb cover and saplings 0–2 m, stem density of trees 6–10 m and trees 16–20 m were significant structural covariates for influencing Lemon Dove occupancy. In the dry season, stem density of 2–5 m and 10–15 m trees, percentage tall herb cover, short herb cover and 0–2 m saplings were significant covariates influencing Lemon Dove occupancy. Stem density of trees 2–5 m and 11–15 m, percentage of short grass cover and short herb cover were important site covariates influencing Orange Ground-thrush occupancy in the wet season. Our study highlighted the importance of a diverse habitat structure for both forest species. A high density of tall/mature trees was an essential microhabitat covariate, particularly for sufficient cover and food for these ground-dwelling birds. Avian forest specialists play a vital role in providing ecosystem services perpetuating forest habitat functioning. Conservation of the natural heterogeneity of their habitat is integral to management plans to prevent the decline of such species.
Risk factors for severe pulmonary regurgitation after repair of tetralogy of Fallot with transannular patch
Authors: Apandi Putria Rayani , Sukardi Rubiana , Djer Mulyadi M. , Yanuarso Piprim B. , Wardoyo Suprayitno
Published: November 2020

Background:

Severe pulmonary regurgitation may result in right ventricular volume overload and decreased right ventricular function. Severe pulmonary regurgitation can be predicted prior to repair of tetralogy of Fallot. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for severe pulmonary regurgitation in repaired tetralogy of Fallot with transannular patch.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study in 43 patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot using transannular patch. This study was carried out in Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo hospital during 2015 to 2018. Participants were followed up for routine examination using echocardiography. We used bivariate and multivariate logistic regression using STATA 12.1 to identify risk factors for severe pulmonary regurgitation in this population.

Results:

A total of 43 patients composed of 22 boys and 21 girls with repaired tetralogy of Fallot using transannular patch were enrolled in the study. Median age of participants was 6 years at admission (2.1–18.5 years) and 3.4 years (1–17 years) at repair. Median length of follow-up was 2.1(1–4.3) years. Risk factors associated with severe pulmonary regurgitation after tetralogy of Fallot repair were McGoon ratio > 1.8 (odds ratio = 6.9; 95% confidence interval = 1.6–30) and follow-up duration >1.9 years (odds ratio = 3.6; 95% confidence interval = 0.9–15.2).

Conclusion:

McGoon ratio > 1.8 and follow-up duration > 1.9 years are associated with severe pulmonary regurgitation after tetralogy of Fallot repair.
Not just vegetations: focal myocardial changes in patients with fungal infections
Authors: Cresalia Nicole M. , Owens Sonal T. , Stillwell Terri L. , Norris Mark D. , Yu Sunkyung , Retzloff Lauren , Ensing Gregory J.
Published: November 2020

Background:

Fungal endocarditis classically involves dense heterogenous vegetations. However, several patients with fungal infections were noted to have myocardial changes ranging from focal brightening to nodular thickening of chordae or papillary muscles. This study evaluates whether these findings are associated with fungal infections.

Methods:

In a retrospective case–control study, paediatric inpatients with fungal infections (positive blood, urine, or catheter tip culture) in a 5-year period were matched 1:1 to inpatients without positive fungal cultures. Echocardiograms were scored on a 5-point scale by two independent readers for presence of myocardial brightenings, nodular thickenings, and vegetations. Clinical data were compared.

Results:

Of 67 fungal cases, positive culture sites included blood (n = 44), vascular catheter tip (n = 7), and urine (n = 29); several had multiple positive sites. “Positive” echo findings (score ≥ 2+) were more frequent in the Fungal Group (33 versus 18%, p = 0.04). Fungal Group patients with “positive” versus “negative” echo findings had similar proportion of bacterial infections. Among fungal cases, those with “positive” echo findings had longer hospital length of stay than cases with “negative” echos (median 58 versus 40 days, p = 0.03) but no difference in intensive care unit admission, extracorporeal membranous oxygenation support, or mortality.

Conclusions:

Myocardial and papillary muscle brightening with nodular thickening on echocardiogram appear to be associated with fungal infections. There may be prognostic implications of these findings as patients with “positive” echo have longer length of stay. Further studies are needed to better understand the mechanism and temporal progression of these changes and determine the prognostic value of this scoring system.
Case report: duct dependency in hypoplastic left heart complex can be reversible without surgery
Authors: Alhuzaimi Abdullah N.
Published: November 2020

We describe an infant with duct-dependent hypoplastic left heart complex with moderate hypoplasia of the left ventricle and aortic arch who was not operated due to resource limitations. The left-sided structures grew remarkably due to favourable loading condition changes of the left ventricle, allowing weaning from prostaglandin at the age of 3 months and discharging the patient without intervention.
Clinical Presentations and Outcomes of Industrial Chlorine Gas Exposure Incidence in Oman
Authors: Khilji Muhammad Faisal
Published: November 2020

Objective:

The main objective was to study different clinical presentations and outcomes of patients after acute industrial chlorine gas exposure in Oman with evaluation of overall incident management to help develop a chemical exposure incident protocol.

Methods:

This was a retrospective observational study of 15 patients exposed to chlorine gas after an accidental chlorine gas leak in a metal melting factory in Oman.

Results:

Six (40%) patients were admitted and nine (60%) patients were discharged from the emergency department (ED) after initial management. The important post-chlorine gas exposure clinical symptoms were eye irritation (66.6%), cough (73.3%), shortness of breath (40.0%), chest discomfort (66.6%), rhinorrhea (66.6%), dizziness (40.0%), vomiting (46.6%), sore throat (13.3%), and stridor (53.3%). Important signs included tachycardia (40.0%), tachypnea (40.0%), wheeze (20.0%), and use of accessory muscles for breathing (20.0%). Signs and symptoms of eye irritation, rhinorrhea, tachycardia, tachypnea, wheeze, and use of accessory muscles for breathing have shown significant correlation with outcome (admission) having P value of <.05.

Conclusion:

In the presented acute chlorine gas exposure incidence, 15 exposed persons were brought to the ED, out of which six were admitted and nine were discharged after symptomatic treatment. Signs and symptoms of eye irritation, rhinorrhea, tachycardia, tachypnea, wheeze, and use of accessory muscles of breathing show significant relation with the outcome of admission.
Power and all its guises. Environmental determinism and locating ‘the crux of the matter’
Authors: Govier Eloise
Published: November 2020

Can we theorize the relationship between discourses that antagonize each other? In a recent article, Arponenet al.demonstrate the tension between two different research models, and spotlight the compelling impact these methods have on archaeological interpretation. In response to their observations, this paper theorizes how we can understand the position of the researcher in relation to the events they analyse. Using Michel Foucault’s approach to the ‘discursive formation’ and Karen Barad’s theory of agential realism, in this reaction I argue that focusing on a single and most important point (the crux) is problematic, and theoretically outline how creating conceptual space for polymorphous causality can aid the analysis of a ‘dispersion of events’.
Dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and impairment of placental metabolism in the offspring of obese mothers
Authors: Bucher Matthew , Montaniel Kim Ramil C. , Myatt Leslie , Weintraub Susan , Tavori Hagai , Maloyan Alina
Published: November 2020

Obesity is a chronic condition associated with dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. Here, we show that the offspring of obese mothers are dyslipidemic and insulin resistant from the outset.

Maternal and cord blood and placental tissues were collected following C-section at term. Patients were grouped as being normal weight (NW, BMI = 18–24.9) or obese (OB, BMI ≥ 30), and separated by fetal sex. We measured plasma lipids, insulin, and glucose in maternal and cord blood. Insulin resistance was quantified using the HOMA-IR. Placental markers of lipid and energy metabolism and relevant metabolites were measured by western blot and metabolomics, respectively.

For OB women, total cholesterol was decreased in both maternal and cord blood, while HDL was decreased only in cord blood, independent of sex. In babies born to OB women, cord blood insulin and insulin resistance were increased. Placental protein expression of the energy and lipid metabolism regulators PGC1α, and SIRT3, ERRα, CPT1α, and CPT2 decreased with maternal obesity in a sex-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Metabolomics showed lower levels of acylcarnitines C16:0, C18:2, and C20:4 in OB women’s placentas, suggesting a decrease in β-oxidation. Glutamine, glutamate, alpha-ketoglutarate (αKG), and 2-hydroxyglutarate (2-HG) were increased, and the glutamine-to-glutamate ratio decreased (P < 0.05), in OB placentas, suggesting induction of glutamate into αKG conversion to maintain a normal metabolic flux.

Newly-born offspring of obese mothers begin their lives dyslipidemic and insulin resistant. If not inherited genetically, such major metabolic perturbations might be explained by abnormal placental metabolism with potential long-term adverse consequences for the offspring’s health and wellbeing.
Age patterns of suicide with different methods for US Whites: APC modelling analysis of the 1999–2017 national data
Authors: Yu B. , Chen X.
Published: November 2020

Aims

Suicide emerges as a threat to national health of USA with Whites being at extra risk. More information is needed regarding the increased suicide among Whites to improve national suicide prevention strategies. This study aims to characterise the age pattern of suicide among Whites by suicide methods adjusting for time period and birth cohort.

Methods

Suicide mortality data by age of 15–84 years during 1999–2017 were derived from the Wide-Ranging Online Data for Epidemiological Research, prepared by US Center for Disease Control and Prevention. Mortality data for three common suicide methods, firearms, suffocation and poisoning were analysed using the age–period–cohort (APC) model. Period–cohort adjusted mortality rates by age were estimated based on results from APC modelling.

Results

Period–cohort adjusted rates indicated that the overall age pattern for males contained five phases, including three increasing phases (ages 15–20, 30–50 and 65+), connected by two declining phases (ages 20–30 and 50–65); and the age pattern for females was a parabolic with an increasing phase from 15 years of age up to 50, followed by a declining phase after age 50. Furthermore, the age pattern for different suicide methods differed substantially for males, but did not for females. Among males, suicide by firearms contained two rapid increasing phases, one during adolescence and another in older ages; suicide by suffocation showed a high plateau across an age span from 20 to 55 years; and suicide by poisoning followed a parabolic, increasing by age up to 45 before it declined. Age patterns revealed by the unadjusted crude rates were biased because of significant linear period effect and W-shaped cohort effect.

Conclusions

This study is the first to quantify the age patterns of suicide by different methods for US Whites using period–cohort adjusted rates. Study findings provide valid evidence supporting precision interventions to reduce the extra suicide mortality among Whites by targeting specific age ranges with different suicide methods.
Voluntarily Stopping Eating and Drinking (VSED)
Authors: Schneider Barbara , S Müller Ronja , Sperling Uwe
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Most cases of voluntarily stopping eating and drinking (VSED) occur in the context of severe underlying diseases with concomitant dwindling needs for food and fluids. In these cases, VSED resembles the rejection of a medical treatment. While this is the leading difference to suicide, however, there are also situations within VSED in which aspects of suicide prevention must be considered. After defining the relevant terms and presenting a literature review, we outline options of dealing with different death wishes and provide recommendations oriented toward the possibilities of suicide prevention in the context of abstaining from food and fluids.
Global N2O Emissions From Cropland Driven by Nitrogen Addition and Environmental Factors: Comparison and Uncertainty Analysis
Authors: Xu Rongting , Tian Hanqin , Pan Shufen , Prior Stephen A. , Feng Yucheng , Dangal Shree R. S.
Published: November 2020

Human activities have caused considerable perturbations of the nitrogen (N) cycle, leading to a ~20% increase in the concentration of atmospheric nitrous oxide (N2O) since the preindustrial era. While substantial efforts have been made to quantify global and regional N2O emissions from cropland, there is large uncertainty regarding how climate change and variability have altered net N2O fluxes at annual and decadal time scales. Herein, we applied a process‐based dynamic land ecosystem model (DLEM) to estimate global N2O emissions from cropland driven by synthetic N fertilizer application and multiple environmental factors (i.e., elevated CO2, atmospheric N deposition, and climate change). We estimate that global cropland N2O emissions increased by 180% (from 1.1 ± 0.2 to 3.3 ± 0.1 Tg N year−1; mean ±1 standard deviation) during 1961–2014. Synthetic N fertilizer applications accounted for ~70% of total emissions during 2000–2014. At the regional scale, Europe and North America were two leading regions for N2O emissions in the 1960s. However, East Asia became the largest emitter after the 1990s. Compared with estimates based on linear and nonlinear emission factors, our results were 150% and 186% larger, respectively, at the global scale during 2000–2014. Our higher estimates of N2O emissions could be attributable to the legacy effect from previous N addition to cropland as well as the interactive effect of N addition and climate change. To reduce future cropland N2O emissions, effective mitigation strategies should be implemented in regions that have received high levels of N fertilizer and regions that would be more vulnerable to future climate change.
Extensive Magmatic Heating of the Lithosphere Beneath the Hawaiian Islands Inferred From Salt Lake Crater Mantle Xenoliths
Authors: Guest Imani , Ito Garrett , Garcia Michael O. , Hellebrand Eric
Published: November 2020

An ongoing challenge in studies of the oceanic upper mantle is how intraplate hotspots impact the thermal structure of the lithosphere. To address this issue at the Hawaiian hotspot, we analyze mineral compositions for a petrographically diverse suite of garnet pyroxenite xenoliths from the Salt Lake Crater (SLC) rejuvenation stage, volcanic tuff ring in Honolulu. Garnet‐clinopyroxene geobarometry and two‐pyroxene geothermometry indicate equilibrium pressures of 13–18 kbar and temperatures of 1000°C–1100°C. These pressures place the xenoliths at mid‐lithospheric depths of 45–55 km, with temperatures 200°C–300°C hotter than expected for normal 90‐Myr‐old oceanic lithosphere. Garnet and clinopyroxene occur as discrete primary grains, as well as exsolution blebs and lamellae, with lateral dimensions up to several hundred microns. Compositions within garnet and pyroxene grains are remarkably uniform and display no systematic variation with distance to grain boundaries. Together, these observations indicate that the calculated pressures and temperatures reflect the thermal state of the lithosphere under which the xenoliths last equilibrated. We attribute the elevated lithospheric temperatures under Honolulu primarily to the heating by magma as it penetrated the lithosphere during rejuvenation magmatism and the voluminous shield magmatic stage. We anticipate such magmatic heating to be common among all Hawaiian volcanoes, supporting conclusions of a recent study of earthquakes beneath Hawai‘i Island. This local lithospheric thermal anomaly may also contribute to the enigmatically weak flexural response of the lithosphere due to volcano loading along the Hawaiian hotspot chain.
A Potential Link Between the Southern Ocean Warming and the South Indian Ocean Heat Balance
Authors: Yang Lina , Murtugudde Raghu , Zhou Lei , Liang Peng
Published: November 2020

Using a suite of reanalysis products, model output, and observational data, the Southern Ocean (SO) is demonstrated to be undergoing a significant warming during recent decades, and this SO warming influences the subsurface heat redistribution in the South Indian Ocean (SIO) via two pathways. First, the increasing surface heat flux over the SO induces a poleward shift of the westerlies and the entire subtropical gyre. Consequently, waters on the equatorial side of the potential density troughs become cooler and those on the poleward side become warmer. The specific outcome is that the subsurface SIO is dominated by an extensive cooling, with a prominent deep‐reaching warming around 30°S‐20°S. Second, the SO warming signals are transmitted northward along isopycnal surfaces from around 40°S up to the tropical SIO through the meridional overturning circulation, modulating the decadal variability of the SIO. The present study highlights the role of the SO in regulating global ocean heat balance and facilitates a better understanding of the moderating effects of oceans on global climate.
The Bathymetry of Moray Sinus at Titan's Kraken Mare
Authors: Poggiali V. , Hayes A. G. , Mastrogiuseppe M. , Le Gall A. , Lalich D. , Gómez‐Leal I. , Lunine J. I.
Published: November 2020

Moray Sinus is an estuary located at the northern end of Titan's Kraken Mare. The Cassini RADAR altimeter acquired three segments over this mare during the T104 flyby of Titan, on August 21, 2014. Herein, we present a detailed analysis of the received echoes. Some of these waveforms exhibit a reflection from the seafloor, from up to m of depth (1σ error). Monte Carlo simulations have been performed in order to assess the most probable values and estimation errors for the seafloor depth. Insights from this study, featuring the synergic use of the synthetic aperture radar images coupled to the altimetry and passive radiometry datasets, have been used to constrain the dielectric properties (i.e., absorptivity of the liquid) and roughness of this region of Kraken Mare. The resulting Ku‐band specific attenuation of the liquid is dB/μs, corresponding to a loss tangent of , which is very similar to the loss tangent estimated at Ligeia Mare. The data in hand do not permit us to discern the most likely explanation for the lack of a seafloor reflection from the main body of Kraken Mare: either a very deep sea or a more absorbing liquid composition. However, if the main body of Kraken Mare is characterized by an absorption similar to Moray Sinus, then based on models of the response to altimetry mode observations we can conclude that it exceeds 100 m of depth, which is also compatible with radiometry observations.
Nonlinear Increase of Vegetation Carbon Storage in Aging Forests and Its Implications for Earth System Models
Authors: Zhu Chen , Xia Jianyang
Published: November 2020

Vegetation carbon stock (Cveg) in global forests, which is important for C cycle‐climate feedbacks, commonly increases with forest age. Due to the allometric growth of plants, the nonlinear increase in Cveg with woody fraction (fw) is expected across space. However, it remains unclear whether such a nonlinear relationship between Cveg and fw can be constrained by observations and further used to benchmark Earth system models (ESMs). Here, based on the in situ measurements at 1,145 forest sites, we found that the nonlinear relationship between Cveg and fw followed an exponential equation (i.e.,
). Then, we showed that such an exponential dependence of Cveg on fw also exists in ESMs of CMIP5 and CMIP6 (all P < 0.01), even though age‐dependent processes have not been incorporated in most models. However, the exponential Cveg‐fw relationship varied greatly among the models, and the coefficient b was systematically lower in the ESMs (0.08 ± 0.11; mean ± SD) than the observations (0.28). Based on a compiled forest age data set, we further found that the observed nonlinear increase of Cveg with forest age across the Northern Hemisphere (>30°N) was not captured by ESMs. These findings reveal a high disagreement on the spatially nonlinear relationship between vegetation carbon stock and woody fraction in current ESMs. The exponential relationship based on observations provides one useful benchmark for ESMs when they implement the age‐dependent processes in the future.
S-nitrosylation-mediated activation of a histidine kinase represses the type 3 secretion system and promotes virulence of an enteric pathogen
Authors: Gu Dan , Zhang Yibei , Wang Qiyao , Zhou Xiaohui
Published: November 2020

Vibrio parahaemolyticus is the leading cause of seafood-borne diarrheal diseases. Experimental overproduction of a type 3 secretion system (T3SS1) in this pathogen leads to decreased intestinal colonization, which suggests that T3SS1 repression is required for maximal virulence. However, the mechanisms by which T3SS1 is repressed in vivo are unclear. Here, we show that host-derived nitrite modifies the activity of a bacterial histidine kinase and mediates T3SS1 repression. More specifically, nitrite activates histidine kinase sensor VbrK through S-nitrosylation on cysteine 86, which results in downregulation of the entire T3SS1 operon through repression of its positive regulator exsC. Replacement of cysteine 86 with a serine (VbrK C86S mutant) leads to increased expression of inflammatory cytokines in infected Caco-2 cells. In an infant rabbit model of infection, the VbrK C86S mutant induces a stronger inflammatory response at the early stage of infection, and displays reduced intestinal colonization and virulence at the later stage of infection, in comparison with the parent strain. Our results indicate that the pathogen V. parahaemolyticus perceives nitrite as a host-derived signal and responds by downregulating a proinflammatory factor (T3SS1), thus enhancing intestinal colonization and virulence.
Topology and control of self-assembled domain patterns in low-dimensional ferroelectrics
Authors: Nahas Y. , Prokhorenko S. , Zhang Q. , Govinden V. , Valanoor N. , Bellaiche L.
Published: November 2020

Whilst often discussed as non-trivial phases of low-dimensional ferroelectrics, modulated polar phases such as the dipolar maze and the nano-bubble state have been appraised as essentially distinct. Here we emphasize their topological nature and show that these self-patterned polar states, but also additional mesophases such as the disconnected labyrinthine phase and the mixed bimeron-skyrmion phase, can be fathomed in their plurality through the unifying canvas of phase separation kinetics. Under compressive strain, varying the control parameter, i.e., the external electric field, conditions the nonequilibrium self-assembly of domains, and bridges nucleation and spinodal decomposition via the sequential onset of topological transitions. The evolutive topology of these polar textures is driven by the (re)combination of the elementary topological defects, merons and antimerons, into a plethora of composite topological defects such as the fourfold junctions, the bimeron and the target skyrmion. Moreover, we demonstrate that these manipulable defects are stable at room temperature and feature enhanced functionalities, appealing for devising future topological-based nanoelectronics.
Spontaneous skyrmionic lattice from anisotropic symmetric exchange in a Ni-halide monolayer
Authors: Amoroso Danila , Barone Paolo , Picozzi Silvia
Published: November 2020

Topological spin structures, such as magnetic skyrmions, hold great promises for data storage applications, thanks to their inherent stability. In most cases, skyrmions are stabilized by magnetic fields in non-centrosymmetric systems displaying the chiral Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya exchange interaction, while spontaneous skyrmion lattices have been reported in centrosymmetric itinerant magnets with long-range interactions. Here, a spontaneous anti-biskyrmion lattice with unique topology and chirality is predicted in the monolayer of a semiconducting and centrosymmetric metal halide, NiI2. Our first-principles and Monte Carlo simulations reveal that the anisotropies of the short-range symmetric exchange, when combined with magnetic frustration, can lead to an emergent chiral interaction that is responsible for the predicted topological spin structures. The proposed mechanism finds a prototypical manifestation in two-dimensional magnets, thus broadening the class of materials that can host spontaneous skyrmionic states.
Kinetic insights into the peroxygenase activity of cellulose-active lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs)
Authors: Kont Riin , Bissaro Bastien , Eijsink Vincent G. H. , Väljamäe Priit
Published: November 2020

Lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases (LPMOs) are widely distributed in Nature, where they catalyze the hydroxylation of glycosidic bonds in polysaccharides. Despite the importance of LPMOs in the global carbon cycle and in industrial biomass conversion, the catalytic properties of these monocopper enzymes remain enigmatic. Strikingly, there is a remarkable lack of kinetic data, likely due to a multitude of experimental challenges related to the insoluble nature of LPMO substrates, like cellulose and chitin, and to the occurrence of multiple side reactions. Here, we employed competition between well characterized reference enzymes and LPMOs for the H2O2 co-substrate to kinetically characterize LPMO-catalyzed cellulose oxidation. LPMOs of both bacterial and fungal origin showed high peroxygenase efficiencies, with kcat/KmH2O2 values in the order of 105–106 M−1 s−1. Besides providing crucial insight into the cellulolytic peroxygenase reaction, these results show that LPMOs belonging to multiple families and active on multiple substrates are true peroxygenases.
Clinical transplantation using negative pressure ventilation ex situ lung perfusion with extended criteria donor lungs
Authors: Buchko Max T. , Boroumand Nasim , Cheng Jeffrey C. , Hirji Alim , Halloran Kieran , Freed Darren H. , Nagendran Jayan
Published: November 2020

Lung transplantation remains the best treatment option for end-stage lung disease; however, is limited by a shortage of donor grafts. Ex situ lung perfusion, also known as ex vivo lung perfusion, has been shown to allow for the safe evaluation and reconditioning of extended criteria donor lungs, increasing donor utilization. Negative pressure ventilation ex situ lung perfusion has been shown, preclinically, to result in less ventilator-induced lung injury than positive pressure ventilation. Here we demonstrate that, in a single-arm interventional study (ClinicalTrials.gov number NCT03293043) of 12 extended criteria donor human lungs, negative pressure ventilation ex situ lung perfusion allows for preservation and evaluation of donor lungs with all grafts and patients surviving to 30 days and recovered to discharge from hospital. This trial also demonstrates that ex situ lung perfusion is safe and feasible with no patients demonstrating primary graft dysfunction scores grade 3 at 72 h or requiring post-operative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
Aftershocks are fluid-driven and decay rates controlled by permeability dynamics
Authors: Miller Stephen A.
Published: November 2020

One aspect of earthquake physics not adequately addressed is why some earthquakes generate thousands of aftershocks while other earthquakes generate few, if any, aftershocks. It also remains unknown why aftershock rates decay as ~1/time. Here, I show that these two are linked, with a dearth of aftershocks reflecting the absence of high-pressure fluid sources at depth, while rich and long-lasting aftershock sequences reflect tapping high-pressure fluid reservoirs that drive aftershock sequences. Using a physical model that captures the dominant aspects of permeability dynamics in the crust, I show that the model generates superior fits to observations than widely used empirical fits such as the Omori-Utsu Law, and find a functional relationship between aftershock decay rates and the tectonic ability to heal the co- and post-seismically generated fracture networks. These results have far-reaching implications, and can help interpret other observations such as seismic velocity recovery, attenuation, and migration.
Long-range ballistic transport of Brown-Zak fermions in graphene superlattices
Authors: Barrier Julien , Kumaravadivel Piranavan , Krishna Kumar Roshan , Ponomarenko L. A. , Xin Na , Holwill Matthew , Mullan Ciaran , Kim Minsoo , Gorbachev R. V. , Thompson M. D. , Prance J. R. , Taniguchi T. , Watanabe K. , Grigorieva I. V. , Novoselov K. S. , Mishchenko A. , Fal’ko V. I. , Geim A. K. , Berdyugin A. I.
Published: November 2020

In quantizing magnetic fields, graphene superlattices exhibit a complex fractal spectrum often referred to as the Hofstadter butterfly. It can be viewed as a collection of Landau levels that arise from quantization of Brown-Zak minibands recurring at rational (p/q) fractions of the magnetic flux quantum per superlattice unit cell. Here we show that, in graphene-on-boron-nitride superlattices, Brown-Zak fermions can exhibit mobilities above 106 cm2 V−1 s−1 and the mean free path exceeding several micrometers. The exceptional quality of our devices allows us to show that Brown-Zak minibands are 4q times degenerate and all the degeneracies (spin, valley and mini-valley) can be lifted by exchange interactions below 1 K. We also found negative bend resistance at 1/q fractions for electrical probes placed as far as several micrometers apart. The latter observation highlights the fact that Brown-Zak fermions are Bloch quasiparticles propagating in high fields along straight trajectories, just like electrons in zero field.
Associations between blood type and COVID-19 infection, intubation, and death
Authors: Zietz Michael , Zucker Jason , Tatonetti Nicholas P.
Published: November 2020

The rapid global spread of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has strained healthcare and testing resources, making the identification and prioritization of individuals most at-risk a critical challenge. Recent evidence suggests blood type may affect risk of severe COVID-19. Here, we use observational healthcare data on 14,112 individuals tested for SARS-CoV-2 with known blood type in the New York Presbyterian (NYP) hospital system to assess the association between ABO and Rh blood types and infection, intubation, and death. We find slightly increased infection prevalence among non-O types. Risk of intubation was decreased among A and increased among AB and B types, compared with type O, while risk of death was increased for type AB and decreased for types A and B. We estimate Rh-negative blood type to have a protective effect for all three outcomes. Our results add to the growing body of evidence suggesting blood type may play a role in COVID-19.
IRF3 prevents colorectal tumorigenesis via inhibiting the nuclear translocation of β-catenin
Authors: Tian Miao , Wang Xiumei , Sun Jihong , Lin Wenlong , Chen Lumin , Liu Shengduo , Wu Ximei , Shi Liyun , Xu Pinglong , Cai Xiujun , Wang Xiaojian
Published: November 2020

Occurrence of Colorectal cancer (CRC) is relevant with gut microbiota. However, role of IRF3, a key signaling mediator in innate immune sensing, has been barely investigated in CRC. Here, we unexpectedly found that the IRF3 deficient mice are hyper-susceptible to the development of intestinal tumor in AOM/DSS and Apcmin/+ models. Genetic ablation of IRF3 profoundly promotes the proliferation of intestinal epithelial cells via aberrantly activating Wnt signaling. Mechanically, IRF3 in resting state robustly associates with the active β-catenin in the cytoplasm, thus preventing its nuclear translocation and cell proliferation, which can be relieved upon microbe-induced activation of IRF3. In accordance, the survival of CRC is clinically correlated with the expression level of IRF3. Therefore, our study identifies IRF3 as a negative regulator of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and a potential prognosis marker for Wnt-related tumorigenesis, and describes an intriguing link between gut microbiota and CRC via the IRF3-β-catenin axis.
Atypical chemoreceptor arrays accommodate high membrane curvature
Authors: Muok Alise R. , Ortega Davi R. , Kurniyati Kurni , Yang Wen , Maschmann Zachary A. , Sidi Mabrouk Adam , Li Chunhao , Crane Brian R. , Briegel Ariane
Published: November 2020

The prokaryotic chemotaxis system is arguably the best-understood signaling pathway in biology. In all previously described species, chemoreceptors organize into a hexagonal (P6 symmetry) extended array. Here, we report an alternative symmetry (P2) of the chemotaxis apparatus that emerges from a strict linear organization of the histidine kinase CheA inTreponema denticolacells, which possesses arrays with the highest native curvature investigated thus far. Using cryo-ET, we reveal thatTdchemoreceptor arrays assume an unusual arrangement of the supra-molecular protein assembly that has likely evolved to accommodate the high membrane curvature. The arrays have several atypical features, such as an extended dimerization domain of CheA and a variant CheW-CheR-like fusion protein that is critical for maintaining an ordered chemosensory apparatus. Furthermore, the previously characterizedTdoxygen sensor ODP influences CheA ordering. These results suggest a greater diversity of the chemotaxis signaling system than previously thought.
Primary cilia mediate early life programming of adiposity through lysosomal regulation in the developing mouse hypothalamus
Authors: Lee Chan Hee , Song Do Kyeong , Park Chae Beom , Choi Jeewon , Kang Gil Myoung , Shin Sung Hoon , Kwon Ijoo , Park Soyoung , Kim Seongjun , Kim Ji Ye , Dugu Hong , Park Jae Woo , Choi Jong Han , Min Se Hee , Sohn Jong-Woo , Kim Min-Seon
Published: November 2020

Hypothalamic neurons including proopiomelanocortin (POMC)-producing neurons regulate body weights. The non-motile primary cilium is a critical sensory organelle on the cell surface. An association between ciliary defects and obesity has been suggested, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Here we show that inhibition of ciliogenesis in POMC-expressing developing hypothalamic neurons, by depleting ciliogenic genes IFT88 and KIF3A, leads to adulthood obesity in mice. In contrast, adult-onset ciliary dysgenesis in POMC neurons causes no significant change in adiposity. In developing POMC neurons, abnormal cilia formation disrupts axonal projections through impaired lysosomal protein degradation. Notably, maternal nutrition and postnatal leptin surge have a profound impact on ciliogenesis in the hypothalamus of neonatal mice; through these effects they critically modulate the organization of hypothalamic feeding circuits. Our findings reveal a mechanism of early life programming of adult adiposity, which is mediated by primary cilia in developing hypothalamic neurons.
3D-printed integrative probeheads for magnetic resonance
Authors: Xie Junyao , You Xueqiu , Huang Yuqing , Ni Zurong , Wang Xinchang , Li Xingrui , Yang Chaoyong , Zhang Dechao , Chen Hong , Sun Huijun , Chen Zhong
Published: November 2020

Magnetic resonance (MR) technology has been widely employed in scientific research, clinical diagnosis and geological survey. However, the fabrication of MR radio frequency probeheads still face difficulties in integration, customization and miniaturization. Here, we utilized 3D printing and liquid metal filling techniques to fabricate integrative radio frequency probeheads for MR experiments. The 3D-printed probehead with micrometer precision generally consists of liquid metal coils, customized sample chambers and radio frequency circuit interfaces. We screened different 3D printing materials and optimized the liquid metals by incorporating metal microparticles. The 3D-printed probeheads are capable of performing both routine and nonconventional MR experiments, including in situ electrochemical analysis, in situ reaction monitoring with continues-flow paramagnetic particles and ions separation, and small-sample MR imaging. Due to the flexibility and accuracy of 3D printing techniques, we can accurately obtain complicated coil geometries at the micrometer scale, shortening the fabrication timescale and extending the application scenarios.
Development and validation of a clinical score to estimate progression to severe or critical state in COVID-19 pneumonia hospitalized patients
Authors: Gude Francisco , Riveiro Vanessa , Rodríguez-Núñez Nuria , Ricoy Jorge , Lado-Baleato Óscar , Lourido Tamara , Rábade Carlos , Lama Adriana , Casal Ana , Abelleira-París Romina , Ferreiro Lucía , Suárez-Antelo Juan , Toubes María E. , Pou Cristina , Taboada-Muñiz Manuel , Calle-Velles Felipe , Mayán-Conesa Plácido , del Molino María L. Pérez , Galbán-Rodríguez Cristóbal , Álvarez-Escudero Julián , Beceiro-Abad Carmen , Molinos-Castro Sonia , Agra-Vázquez Néstor , Pazo-Núñez María , Páez-Guillán Emilio , Varela-García Pablo , Martínez-Rey Carmen , Pernas-Pardavila Hadrián , Domínguez-Santalla María J. , Vidal-Vázquez Martín , Marques-Afonso Ana T. , González-Quintela Arturo , González-Juanatey José R. , Pose Antonio , Valdés Luis
Published: November 2020

The prognosis of a patient with COVID-19 pneumonia is uncertain. Our objective was to establish a predictive model of disease progression to facilitate early decision-making. A retrospective study was performed of patients admitted with COVID-19 pneumonia, classified as severe (admission to the intensive care unit, mechanic invasive ventilation, or death) or non-severe. A predictive model based on clinical, laboratory, and radiological parameters was built. The probability of progression to severe disease was estimated by logistic regression analysis. Calibration and discrimination (receiver operating characteristics curves and AUC) were assessed to determine model performance. During the study period 1152 patients presented with SARS-CoV-2 infection, of whom 229 (19.9%) were admitted for pneumonia. During hospitalization, 51 (22.3%) progressed to severe disease, of whom 26 required ICU care (11.4); 17 (7.4%) underwent invasive mechanical ventilation, and 32 (14%) died of any cause. Five predictors determined within 24 h of admission were identified: Diabetes, Age, Lymphocyte count, SaO2, and pH (DALSH score). The prediction model showed a good clinical performance, including discrimination (AUC 0.87 CI 0.81, 0.92) and calibration (Brier score = 0.11). In total, 0%, 12%, and 50% of patients with severity risk scores ≤ 5%, 6–25%, and > 25% exhibited disease progression, respectively. A risk score based on five factors predicts disease progression and facilitates early decision-making according to prognosis.
Comparing distress of mouse models for liver damage
Authors: Tang Guanglin , Seume Nico , Häger Christine , Kumstel Simone , Abshagen Kerstin , Bleich André , Vollmar Brigitte , Talbot Steven R. , Zhang Xianbin , Zechner Dietmar
Published: November 2020

In order to foster animal welfare as well as high quality of research, many countries regulate by law that the severity of animal experiments must be evaluated and considered when performing biomedical research. It is well accepted that multiple parameters rather than a single readout parameter should be applied to describe animal distress or suffering. However, since the performance of readout parameters for animal distress is rarely defined and methods for multivariate analysis have only in rare cases been used, it is not known which methodology is most appropriate to define animal distress. This study used receiver operating characteristic curve analysis to quantify the performance of burrowing activity, body weight change and a distress score of mice after induction of liver damage by bile duct ligation or carbon tetrachloride. In addition, Support Vector Machine classification was used to compare the distress of these mouse models. This approach demonstrated that bile duct ligation causes much more distress than carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage. This study, therefore, provides a prototype how to compare two animal models by considering several readout parameters. In the future these or similar methods for multivariate analysis will be necessary, when assessing and comparing the severity of animal models.