bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Approaches to land snail shell bead manufacture in the Early Holocene of Malawi
Authors: Miller Jennifer M. , Keller Hannah M. , Heckel Claire , Kaliba Potiphar M. , Thompson Jessica C.
Published: February 2021

Shell disc beads are important archeological indicators of social communication and exchange networks. There has been substantial research on ostrich eggshell (OES) beads, but little is known about the manufacture or chronology of similar beads from land snail shells (LSS). LSS beads are associated with Holocene hunter-gatherers in Africa, though direct dates are limited to the Iron Age, and there are no images or descriptions of the manufacturing sequence. Here, we combine experimental and archeological data to resolve the chronology, operational chains, and material properties of LSS bead manufacture. We then recommend and apply a modified OES production sequence to three Later Stone Age assemblages from the Kasitu Valley of northern Malawi (Hora 1, Mazinga 1, and Kadawonda 1). At these sites, LSS shows an unexpectedly high proportion of Pathway 2 manufacture (disc shaping prior to perforation), in direct contrast with known OES bead manufacture. Application of red color occurred at all stages of manufacture, albeit inconsistently. Production of finished beads involved substantial removal of material from preforms to create the final product. Finally, we report the earliest evidence for LSS bead manufacture with two directly dated preforms (~ 9500 cal BP), showing that the origins of LSS beadmaking do precede the Iron Age.
Auto-correlation robustness of factorial designs and GAMS in studying the effects of process variables in a dual-objective adsorption system
Authors: Amosa Mutiu Kolade , Aderibigbe Fatai A. , Adeniyi Adewale George , Ighalo Joshua O. , Bello Bisola Taibat , Jami Mohammed Saedi , Alkhatib Ma’an Fahmi R. , Majozi Thokozani , Abdulkareem Sulyman A.
Published: February 2021

The performance of factorial designs is still limited due to some uncertainties that usually intensify process complexities, hence, the need for inter-platform auto-correlation analyses. In this study, the auto-correlation capabilities of factorial designs and General Algebraic Modeling System (GAMS) on the effects of some pertinent operating variables in wastewater treatment were compared. Individual and combined models were implemented in GAMS and solved with the trio of BARON, CPLEX and IPOPT solvers. It is revealed that adsorbent dosage had the highest effect on the process. It contributed the most effect toward obtaining the minimum silica and TDS contents of 13 mg/L and 814 mg/L, and 13.6 mg/L and 815 mg/L from factorial design and GAMS platforms, respectively. This indicates a concurrence between the results from the two platforms with percentage errors of 4.4% and 0.2% for silica and TDS, respectively. The effects of the mixing speed and contact time are negligible.
Studying human-AI collaboration protocols: the case of the Kasparov’s law in radiological double reading
Authors: Cabitza Federico , Campagner Andrea , Sconfienza Luca Maria
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The integration of Artificial Intelligence into medical practices has recently been advocated for the promise to bring increased efficiency and effectiveness to these practices. Nonetheless, little research has so far been aimed at understanding the best human-AI interaction protocols in collaborative tasks, even in currently more viable settings, like independent double-reading screening tasks.

Methods

To this aim, we report about a retrospective case–control study, involving 12 board-certified radiologists, in the detection of knee lesions by means of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, in which we simulated the serial combination of two Deep Learning models with humans in eight double-reading protocols. Inspired by the so-called Kasparov’s Laws, we investigate whether the combination of humans and AI models could achieve better performance than AI models alone, and whether weak reader, when supported by fit-for-use interaction protocols, could out-perform stronger readers.

Results

We discuss two main findings: groups of humans who perform significantly worse than a state-of-the-art AI can significantly outperform it if their judgements are aggregated by majority voting (in concordance with the first part of the Kasparov’s law); small ensembles of significantly weaker readers can significantly outperform teams of stronger readers, supported by the same computational tool, when the judgments of the former ones are combined within “fit-for-use” protocols (in concordance with the second part of the Kasparov’s law).

Conclusion

Our study shows that good interaction protocols can guarantee improved decision performance that easily surpasses the performance of individual agents, even of realistic super-human AI systems. This finding highlights the importance of focusing on how to guarantee better co-operation within human-AI teams, so to enable safer and more human sustainable care practices.
IL-10 Deficiency Aggravates Renal Inflammation, Fibrosis and Functional Failure in High-Fat Dieted Obese Mice
Authors: Kim Dae Hwan , Chun So Young , Lee EunHye , Kim Bomi , Yoon BoHyun , Gil Haejung , Han Man-Hoon , Ha Yun-Sok , Lee Jun Nyung , Kwon Tae Gyun , Kim Bum Soo , Jang Byung Ik
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND:

High-fat diet-induced obesity is one of the major cause of chronic renal failure. This obesity-related renal failure is mainly caused by inflammatory processes. However, the role of the major anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)-10 has not been researched intensively.

METHODS:

To evaluate the effect of IL-10 deficiency on obesity-related renal failure, the in vivo study was carried with four animal groups; (1) Low-fat dieted C57BL/6 mice, (2) Low-fat dieted IL-10 knockout (KO) mice, (3) High‐fat dieted C57BL/6 mice and (4) High‐fat dieted IL-10 KO mice group. The analysis was carried with blood/urine chemistry, H&E, Oil-Red-O, periodic acid-Schiff and Masson’s trichrome staining immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR methods.

RESULTS:

At week 12, high‐fat dieted IL-10 KO mice showed 1) severe lipid accumulation in kidneys, cholesterol elevation (in total, serum kidney) and low-density lipoprotein increasion through the SCAP-SREBP2-LDLr pathway; (2) serious histopathologic alterations showing glomerulosclerosis, tubulointerstitial fibrosis and immune cell infiltration; (3) increased pro‐inflammatory cytokines and chemokines expression; (4) enhanced renal fibrosis; and (5) serious functional failure with high serum creatinine and BUN and proteinuria excretion compared to other groups.

CONCLUSION:

IL-10 deficiency aggravates renal inflammation, fibrosis and functional failure in high-fat dieted obese mice, thus IL-10 therapy could be applied to obesity-related chronic renal failure.
Electrochemical performance of La2NiO4+δ-Ce0.55La0.45O2−δ as a promising bifunctional oxygen electrode for reversible solid oxide cells
Authors: Li Pengzhang , Yang Wei , Tian Chuanjin , Zhao Wenyan , Lü Zhe , Xie Zhipeng , Wang Chang-An
Published: February 2021

In this work, La2NiO4+δ-xCe0.55La0.45O2−δ (denoted as LNO-xLDC) with various LDC contents (x = 0, 10, 20, 30, and 40 wt%) were prepared and evaluated as bifunctional oxygen electrodes for reversible solid oxide cells (RSOCs). Compared with the pure LNO, the optimum composition of LNO-30LDC exhibited the lowest polarization resistance (Rp) of 0.53 and 0.12 Ω·cm2 in air at 650 and 750 °C, respectively. The enhanced electrochemical performance of LNO-30LDC oxygen electrode was mainly attributed to the extended triple phase boundary and more oxygen ionic transfer channels. The hydrogen electrode supported single cell with LNO-30LDC oxygen electrode displayed peak power densities of 276, 401, and 521 mW·cm−2 at 700, 750, and 800 °C, respectively. Moreover, the electrolysis current density of the single cell demonstrated 526.39 mA·cm−2 under 1.5 V at 800 °C, and the corresponding hydrogen production rate was 220.03 mL·cm−2·h−1. The encouraging results indicated that LNO-30LDC was a promising bifunctional oxygen electrode material for RSOCs.
Structural evolution of plasma sprayed amorphous Li4Ti5O12 electrode and ceramic/polymer composite electrolyte during electrochemical cycle of quasi-solid-state lithium battery
Authors: Wu Xi , Liang Xinghua , Zhang Xiaofeng , Lan Lingxiao , Li Suo , Gai Qixin
Published: February 2021

A quasi-solid-state lithium battery is assembled by plasma sprayed amorphous Li4Ti5O12(LTO) electrode and ceramic/polymer composite electrolyte with a little liquid electrolyte (10 µL/cm2) to provide the outstanding electrochemical stability and better normal interface contact. Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) were used to analyze the structural evolution and performance of plasma sprayed amorphous LTO electrode and ceramic/polymer composite electrolyte before and after electrochemical experiments. By comparing the electrochemical performance of the amorphous LTO electrode and the traditional LTO electrode, the electrochemical behavior of different electrodes is studied. The results show that plasma spraying can prepare an amorphous LTO electrode coating of about 8 µm. After 200 electrochemical cycles, the structure of the electrode evolved, and the inside of the electrode fractured and cracks expanded, because of recrystallization at the interface between the rich fluorine compounds and the amorphous LTO electrode. Similarly, the ceramic/polymer composite electrolyte has undergone structural evolution after 200 test cycles. The electrochemical cycle results show that the cycle stability, capacity retention rate, coulomb efficiency, and internal impedance of amorphous LTO electrode are better than traditional LTO electrode. This innovative and facile quasi-solid-state strategy is aimed to promote the intrinsic safety and stability of working lithium battery, shedding light on the development of next-generation high-performance solid-state lithium batteries.
Juvenile Dermatomyositis: New Clues to Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Pachman Lauren M. , Nolan Brian E. , DeRanieri Deidre , Khojah Amer M.
Published: February 2021

Purpose of review

To identify clues to disease activity and discuss therapy options.

Recent findings

The diagnostic evaluation includes documenting symmetrical proximal muscle damage by exam and MRI, as well as elevated muscle enzymes—aldolase, creatine phosphokinase, LDH, and SGOT—which often normalize with a longer duration of untreated disease. Ultrasound identifies persistent, occult muscle inflammation. The myositis-specific antibodies (MSA) and myositis-associated antibodies (MAA) are associated with specific disease course variations. Anti-NXP-2 is found in younger children and is associated with calcinosis; anti-TIF-1γ+ juvenile dermatomyositis has a longer disease course. The diagnostic rash—involving the eyelids, hands, knees, face, and upper chest—is the most persistent symptom and is associated with microvascular compromise, reflected by loss of nailfold (periungual) end row capillaries. This loss is associated with decreased bioavailability of oral prednisone; the bioavailability of other orally administered medications should also be considered. At diagnosis, at least 3 days of intravenous methyl prednisolone may help control the HLA-restricted and type 1/2 interferon–driven inflammatory process. The requirement for avoidance of ultraviolet light exposure mandates vitamin D supplementation.

This often chronic illness targets the cardiovascular system; mortality has decreased from 30 to 1–2% with corticosteroids. New serological biomarkers indicate occult inflammation: ↑CXCL-10 predicts a longer disease course. Some biologic therapies appear promising.
The influence of different geometrical dimensions of convectors on the heat transfer from panel radiators
Authors: Calisir Tamer , Baskaya Senol
Published: February 2021

Increase in total heat output of panel radiators could play an important role in domestic energy saving, where convectors (convection fins) play a key role. Hence, it is important to obtain the best possible design of convectors, in order to increase the heat output of panel radiators. In this sense, a numerical study has been performed to show the effects of different geometrical dimensions of convectors on the heat transfer used in domestic panel radiators, to obtain the highest possible total heat output. Firstly, simulation data were verified by analytical results, and afterwards, parametric studies were performed for a single convector mounted on a constant temperature wall, and the natural convective heat transfer has been modelled. The effects of convector height, convector sheet thickness, convector trapezoidal height, distance between opposing convectors, convector tip width, vertical location of convector and cut-off ratio have been considered. The results showed that the heat transfer increases with the increase in convector thickness and height. However, the consumed sheet metal material amount increases as well. From a manufacturing point of view, this should be considered at the same time. On the other hand, with the increase in trapezoidal height, the heat transfer increases, and above a certain value the heat transfer decreases. The heat transfer increases with the distance of opposing convectors and becomes almost constant above a certain value. The results of the present study could guide in the change of the internal design of panel radiators with convectors, in order to increase the heat transfer and reduce material costs.
Healing Knowledge in Atlantic Africa
Authors: Kananoja Kalle
Published: February 2021

In this ambitious analysis of medical encounters in Central and West Africa during the era of the Atlantic slave trade, Kalle Kananoja focuses on African and European perceptions of health, disease and healing. Arguing that the period was characterised by continuous knowledge exchange, he shows that indigenous natural medicine was used by locals and non-Africans alike. The mobility and circulation of healing techniques and materials was an important feature of the early modern Black Atlantic world. African healing specialists not only crossed the Atlantic to the Americas, but also moved within and between African regions to offer their services. At times, patients, Europeans included, travelled relatively long distances in Africa to receive treatment. Highlighting cross-cultural medical exchanges, Kananoja shows that local African knowledge was central to shaping responses to illness, providing a fresh, global perspective on African medicine and vernacular science in the early modern world.
Assessing the Effectiveness of Non-State-Based Grievance Mechanisms in Providing Access to Remedy for Rightsholders: A Case Study of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil
Authors: WIELGA Mark , HARRISON James
Published: February 2021

This article explores different approaches to assessing the effectiveness of non-state-based non-judicial grievance mechanisms (NSBGMs) in achieving access to remedy for rightsholders. It queries the approach that has been widely adopted as a result of the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), which focuses on the procedural aspects of grievance mechanisms. Rather, it stresses the importance of analysing the outcomes of cases for rightsholders. This article tests this hypothesis by undertaking comprehensive empirical research into the complaint mechanism of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). RSPO is found to perform well when judged according to the UNGPs’ effectiveness criteria. However, it performs poorly when individual cases are assessed to ascertain the outcomes that are achieved for rightsholders. The article therefore argues for the importance of equivalent scrutiny of outcomes in relation to other NSBGMs and provides an approach and accompanying methodology that can be utilized for that purpose.
Making European Managers in Business Schools: A Longitudinal Case Study on Evolution, Processes, and Actors from the Late 1960s Onward
Authors: PASSANT ADRIEN JEAN-GUY
Published: February 2021

There have been calls in recent literature for researchers to open up the “black box” of business schools to explore their dynamics and behaviors in-depth for a context-sensitive understanding of their evolution. Drawing on the case of ESCP, a leading business school in France, this article shows how European business schools’ curricula have evolved since the late 1960s in response to a combination of powerful actors’ demands and the emergence of new processes in the educational domain. This article finds that while European business schools’ curricula reflect the influence of internal and external forces, they do not converge to a common type, because of the different markets and political and cultural contexts in which they operate. It also finds that business schools in Europe purposefully do not imitate those in United States.
Towards establishing no observed adverse effect levels (NOAEL) for different sources of dietary phosphorus in feline adult diets: results from a 7-month feeding study
Authors: Coltherd Jennifer C. , Alexander Janet E. , Pink Claire , Rawlings John , Elliott Jonathan , Haydock Richard , Carvell-Miller Laura J. , Biourge Vincent C. , Molina Luis , Butterwick Richard , Logan Darren W. , Watson Phillip , Bakke Anne Marie
Published: February 2021

High dietary phosphorus (P), particularly soluble salts, may contribute to chronic kidney disease development in cats. The aim of the present study was to assess the safety of P supplied at 1 g/1000 kcal (4184kJ) from a highly soluble P salt in P-rich dry format feline diets. Seventy-five healthy adult cats (n25/group) were fed either a low P control (1·4 g/1000 kcal [4184kJ]; Ca:P ratio 0·97) or one of two test diets with 4 g/1000 kcal (4184 kJ); Ca:P 1·04 or 5 g/1000 kcal (4184kJ); Ca:P 1·27, both incorporating 1 g/1000 kcal (4184 kJ) sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP) – for a period of 30 weeks in a randomised parallel-group study. Health markers in blood and urine, glomerular filtration rate, renal ultrasound and bone density were assessed at baseline and at regular time points. At the end of the test period, responses following transition to a commercial diet (total P – 2·34 g/1000 kcal [4184kJ], Ca:P 1·3) for a 4-week washout period were also assessed. No adverse effects on general, kidney or bone (skeletal) function and health were observed. P and Ca balance, some serum biochemistry parameters and regulatory hormones were increased in cats fed test diets from week 2 onwards (P≤ 0·05). Data from the washout period suggest that increased serum creatinine and urea values observed in the two test diet groups were influenced by dietary differences during the test period, and not indicative of changes in renal function. The present data suggest no observed adverse effect level for feline diets containing 1 g P/1000 kcal (4184 kJ) from STPP and total P level of up to 5 g/1000 kcal (4184 kJ) when fed for 30 weeks.
Evaluation of pharyngeal swallowing pressure using high-resolution manometry during transoral surgery for oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Fujiwara K , Koyama S , Taira K , Kawamoto K , Fukuhara T , Takeuchi H
Published: February 2021

Background

Transoral robotic surgery is frequently described, driven by the desire to offer a less morbid alternative to chemoradiation. However, the objective evaluation of post-operative function has rarely been reported. Therefore, high-resolution manometry was used in this study to evaluate the impact of changes in peri-operative swallowing function on pharyngeal pressure events.

Methods

Ten patients with various stages of oropharyngeal cancer underwent transoral surgery. High-resolution manometry and videofluoroscopic swallow studies were performed before surgery and two months afterwards. The following parameters were obtained: velopharyngeal and mesopharyngeal post-deglutitive upper oesophageal sphincter pressures, velo-meso-hypopharyngeal contractile integral, upper oesophageal sphincter relaxation pressure, and pharyngeal velocity.

Results

There was no significant difference in pharyngeal pressure or contractile integral pre- versus post-operatively. However, pharyngeal velocity was significantly higher post-operatively than pre-operatively.

Conclusion

High-resolution manometry showed that transoral surgery in patients without pre-operative dysphagia preserved pharyngeal constriction. However, transoral surgery might produce scar formation in the pharynx, which could lead to narrowing of the pharynx.
Effects of habitat structure on the mollusc assemblage in Mussismilia corals: evaluation of the influence of different coral growth morphology
Authors: Nogueira M. M. , Neves E. , Johnsson R.
Published: February 2021

Habitat structure increases richness and abundance of species in many environments by providing easy access to resources and refuge from predators. In coral reefs, corals are habitat for many organisms and differences in their morphologies may act as variation in habitat structure for associated fauna. In the present study, we investigate whether there are differences in the richness and abundance of molluscs associated with three species of Mussismilia corals exhibiting different growth morphologies, in two different reef areas of the Bahia state. Mussismilia harttii has a meandroid pattern, M. hispida is a massive coral, M. braziliensis also has a massive growth pattern with crevices at the corallum base. Coral characteristics were measured in the laboratory. Significant differences were identified for richness among coral species – higher values were reported in colonies of M. harttii and no significant statistical differences were observed between M. braziliensis and M. hispida. Considering the density of associated molluscs, the same pattern was found. The results are in accordance with previous studies and indicate the importance of M. harttii as a key habitat to maintain a richer and more abundant associated fauna. The internal volume of interpolypal space is an important factor influencing the richness and density of associated species.
Refugee Policy as Border Governance: Refugee return, peacebuilding, and Myanmar's politics of transition
Authors: McCONNACHIE KIRSTEN
Published: February 2021

Refugees have been largely overlooked in analyses of Myanmar's transition, apparently considered peripheral to more prominent topics such as negotiation with armed groups, economic reform, and political elections. By analysing approaches to return and repatriation in three distinct contexts—refugees in camps in Thailand, Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh, and Chin refugees in Malaysia and India—this article shows that proposals for the return and repatriation of refugees are a form of ‘border governance' (that is, governance in, of, and through borders). This operates at three scales: (1) global border control by keeping refugees in their region of origin or returning them to their country of origin, (2) national border control by reinforcing boundaries between Myanmar and its surrounding states, and (3) the governance of political transition by reinforcing the Myanmar government’s narrative of peacebuilding by recasting continuing conflict as conditions suitable for refugee return. Premature promotion of repatriation has a number of harmful outcomes for refugee communities: encouraging the withdrawal of international aid, escalating fear and uncertainty, and political bolstering of a Bamar-dominated government and military vis-a-vis ethnic minority groups. This analysis supports a broader understanding of repatriation and its consequences, recognising that the promotion of refugee return can have significant political implications that are apparent even before mass returns have been carried out and which may reverberate far into the future.
Representability and autoequivalence groups
Authors: CHEN XIAO–WU
Published: February 2021

For a finite dimensional algebra A, the bounded homotopy category of projective A-modules and the bounded derived category of A-modules are dual to each other via certain categories of locally-finite cohomological functors. We prove that the duality gives rise to a 2-categorical duality between certain strict 2-categories involving bounded homotopy categories and bounded derived categories, respectively. We apply the 2-categorical duality to the study of triangle autoequivalence groups.
Youth wildlife preferences and species-based conservation priorities in a low-income biodiversity hotspot region
Authors: Liles Michael J , Peterson M Nils , Stevenson Kathryn T , Peterson Markus J
Published: February 2021

Public preferences for wildlife protection can dictate the success or failure of conservation interventions. However, little research has focused on wildlife preferences among youth or how youth prioritize species-based conservation. We conducted a study of youth between 7 and 20 years old (n = 128) at five local schools situated near critical hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) nesting beaches in El Salvador to determine their wildlife preferences and how they prioritize species for conservation based on five attributes: endemism; use for hunting and fishing; rapid decline in population size; presence around their home; and ecological significance. These Salvadoran youth showed preferences for native over non-native species and tended to rank rapid population decline as the most important attribute for prioritizing wildlife for protection, followed by use for hunting and fishing. Participants in local environmental education activities placed greater importance on species in rapid decline than non-participants, who considered endemism as most important. Overall, these findings reveal how environmental education may successfully promote increased prioritization of imperilled species among youth. Economic payments for conserving hawksbill turtles may link the two top reasons that Salvadoran youth provided for protecting species by compensating for the reduced hunting required to facilitate population stabilization.
Understanding the Gender and Partisan Dynamics of Abortion Voting in the House of Representatives
Authors: Rolfes-Haase Kelly L. , Swers Michele L.
Published: February 2021

Analyzing votes on abortion-related legislation from the 103rd (1993–94) to the 115th (2017–18) Congresses, we find that both gender and party influence members’ voting behavior. Among Republicans, women are more likely than men to oppose pro-life initiatives, although the impact of gender attenuates over time. Among Democrats, apparent gender differences in voting behavior are explained by the nature of the districts they represent. We also find that the type of abortion issue impacts the influence of gender. Republican women are more likely than Republican men to defect on policies that highlight women's autonomy, such as on bills related to contraception, while Democratic men are more likely than Democratic women to support legislation related to abortion bans. These gender differences reflect a complex dynamic of members’ responsiveness to public opinion on specific issues and party efforts to influence that opinion in ways that favor perceptions of party issue expertise.
Psychological Adjustment in Spain during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Positive and Negative Mental Health Outcomes in the General Population
Authors: Valiente Carmen , Contreras Alba , Peinado Vanesa , Trucharte Almudena , Martínez Antón P. , Vázquez Carmelo
Published: February 2021

In the midst of the COVID–19 epidemic, Spain was one of the countries with the highest number of infections and a high mortality rate. The threat of the virus and consequences of the pandemic have a discernible impact on the mental health of citizens. This study aims to (a) evaluate the levels of anxiety, depression and well-being in a large Spanish sample during the confinement, (b) identify potential predictor variables associated to experiencing both clinical levels of distress and well-being in a sample of 2,122 Spanish people. By using descriptive analyses and logistic regression results revealed high rates of depression, anxiety and well-being. Specifically, our findings revealed that high levels of anxiety about COVID–19, increased substance use and loneliness as the strongest predictors of distress, while gross annual incomes and loneliness were strongest predictors of well-being. Finding of the present study provide a better insight about psychological adjustment to a pandemic and allows us to identify which population groups are at risk of experiencing higher levels of distress and which factors contribute to greater well-being, which could help in the treatments and prevention in similar stressful and traumatic situations.
Self-Affirmation and Identity-Driven Political Behavior
Authors: Lyons Benjamin A. , Farhart Christina E. , Hall Michael P. , Kotcher John , Levendusky Matthew , Miller Joanne M. , Nyhan Brendan , Raimi Kaitlin T. , Reifler Jason , Saunders Kyle L. , Skytte Rasmus , Zhao Xiaoquan
Published: February 2021

Psychological attachment to political parties can bias people’s attitudes, beliefs, and group evaluations. Studies from psychology suggest that self-affirmation theory may ameliorate this problem in the domain of politics on a variety of outcome measures. We report a series of studies conducted by separate research teams that examine whether a self-affirmation intervention affects a variety of outcomes, including political or policy attitudes, factual beliefs, conspiracy beliefs, affective polarization, and evaluations of news sources. The different research teams use a variety of self-affirmation interventions, research designs, and outcomes. Despite these differences, the research teams consistently find that self-affirmation treatments have little effect. These findings suggest considerable caution is warranted for researchers who wish to apply the self-affirmation framework to studies that investigate political attitudes and beliefs. By presenting the “null results” of separate research teams, we hope to spark a discussion about whether and how the self-affirmation paradigm should be applied to political topics.
Characteristics of Substorm‐Onset‐Related and Nonsubstorm Earthward Fast Flows and Associated Magnetic Flux Transport: THEMIS Observations
Authors: Li Jinxing , Chu Xiangning , Bortnik Jacob , Weygand James , Wang Chih‐Ping , Liu Jiang , McPherron Robert , Kellerman Adam
Published: February 2021

Substorms are closely associated with fast flows; however, many fast flows are not associated with substorm onsets and only lead to a localized, transient, and weak response in the magnetosphere and ionosphere. This study uses the midlatitude positive bay index to identify substorms. A case study investigates the magnetospheric and ionospheric responses to substorm‐onset‐related fast flows and nonsubstorm fast flows using observations from the THEMIS spacecraft and ionospheric currents. Statistics based on THEMIS observations made over 11 years show that substorm‐onset‐related fast flows are more likely to penetrate closer to the Earth and spread over a wider range of MLTs compared to nonsubstorm fast flows. The substorm‐onset‐related fast flow durations are slightly longer than nonsubstorm fast flow on average, and there is no significant difference between their peak velocity probability distributions. However, substorm‐onset‐related fast flows are statistically shown to be accompanied by substantially larger Bz increases that persist for longer periods of time, and hence result in 80% larger earthward‐directed magnetic flux transport rates.
On the Relationship of the O(1D) 630.0 nm Dayglow Emission to the F10.7 cm Solar Flux and the Solar Zenith Angle
Authors: Shepherd Gordon G. , Cho Young‐Min
Published: February 2021

The Wind Imaging Interferometer (WINDII) Empirical Model, which provides the characteristics of the O(1D) 630.0 nm atomic oxygen dayglow emission from the upper atmosphere has been reviewed and updated. It now includes the Integrated Emission Rate, the peak Volume Emission Rate, the Altitude of that peak and the Full Width at Half Maximum as functions of the F10.7 cm Solar Radio Flux and the solar zenith angle (SZA). The model employs 98,617 WINDII observations obtained between the years 1992 and 1996, and the model and observations of the Integrated Emission Rate agree well with one another within 2 standard deviations of 588.7 Rayleigh (R) (106 photons cm−2 sec−1). It is also demonstrated that the impact of latitude, longitude and day of year, independently of their contribution to the SZA, is very small. The WINDII Empirical Model is also shown to agree with results from the TRANSCAR photochemical model. The dayglow is challenging to measure with ground‐based instruments, as the solar scattered light from the daytime sky must be accurately subtracted from the data. Ground‐based measurements of the integrated emission rate have been made by others, with good agreement for observations from Hyderabad during the 2015 summer and winter, but mixed agreement with measurements made over Boston in 2003. The latter results are reviewed and assessed.
Equation of State Measurements on Iron Near the Melting Curve at Planetary Core Conditions by Shock and Ramp Compressions
Authors: Grant S. C. , Ao T. , Seagle C. T. , Porwitzky A. J. , Davis J.‐P. , Cochrane K. R. , Dolan D. H. , Lin J.‐F. , Ditmire T. , Bernstein A. C.
Published: February 2021

The outer core of the Earth is composed primarily of liquid iron, and the inner core boundary is governed by the intersection of the melt line and the geotherm. While there are many studies on the thermodynamic equation of state for solid iron, the equation of state of liquid iron is relatively unexplored. We use dynamic compression to diagnose the high‐pressure liquid equation of state of iron by utilizing the shock‐ramp capability at Sandia National Laboratories’ Z‐Machine. This technique enables measurements of material states off the Hugoniot by initially shocking samples and subsequently driving a further, shockless compression. Planetary studies benefit greatly from isentropic, off‐Hugoniot experiments since they can cover pressure‐temperature (P‐T) conditions that are close to adiabatic profiles found in planetary interiors. We used this method to drive iron to P‐T conditions similar to those of the Earth’s outer‐inner core boundary, along an elevated‐temperature isentrope in the liquid from 275 GPa to 400 GPa. We derive the equation of state using a hybrid backward integration – forward Lagrangian technique on particle velocity traces to determine the pressure‐density history of the sample. Our results are in excellent agreement with SESAME 92141, a previously published equation of state table. With our data and previous experimental data on liquid iron we provide new information on the iron melting line and derive new parameters for a Vinet‐based equation of state. The table and our parameterized equation of state are applied to provide an updated means of modeling the pressure, mass, and density of liquid iron cores in exoplanetary interiors.
Greigite as an Indicator for Salinity and Sedimentation Rate Change: Evidence From the Yangtze River Delta, China
Authors: Chen Yinglu , Zhang Weiguo , Nian Xiaomei , Sun Qianli , Ge Can , Hutchinson Simon M. , Cheng Qinzi , Wang Feng , Chen Jin , Zhao Xuanqi
Published: February 2021

Ferrimagnetic greigite (Fe3S4) is widespread in the sedimentary environment. Despite abundant reports of greigite occurrence in marine and lacustrine deposits, its formation mechanisms in deltaic deposits remain poorly studied. Here we investigate greigite in Holocene Yangtze River Delta deposits using granulometric, magnetic, and geochemical methods. The studied cores consist of tidal river, estuary, shallow marine, and delta facies in ascending order. The greigite‐bearing layers are found predominantly in the accreting tidal flat facies during the transgression stage and secondarily in the shallow marine facies during the regression stage of the delta's Holocene development. These sedimentary intervals have a higher total sulfur (TS) content and TS to total organic carbon ratios (TS/TOC) suggesting the accumulation of iron sulfides, including greigite, under reducing estuarine and shallow marine conditions. The greigite‐bearing layers in the tidal flat facies have lower Sr/Ba ratios, in comparison to the shallow marine facies, indicating a lower salinity environment. Supported by the dating results, it is suggested that the higher sedimentation rate of the tidal flat facies, caused by rapid sea‐level rise during the early Holocene, favors the formation and preservation of greigite. Our results indicate that the magnetic detection of greigite provides a simple and useful tool for inferring salinity and sedimentation rate changes, and hence better an understanding of the heterogeneity of depositional processes in Holocene delta environments.
ENSO Modulates Summer and Autumn Sea Ice Variability Around Dronning Maud Land, Antarctica
Authors: Isaacs Florence E. , Renwick James A. , Mackintosh Andrew N. , Dadic Ruzica
Published: February 2021

Antarctica’s sea ice cover is an important component of the global climate system, yet the drivers of sea ice variability are not well understood. Here we investigated the effects of climate variability on sea ice concentration (SIC) around East Antarctica by correlating the 40‐years (1979–2018) satellite sea ice record and ERA5 reanalysis data. We found that summer and autumn SIC around Dronning Maud Land (DML) between 10 and 70°E exhibited a statistically significant negative correlation with the Niño 3.4 index. Sea ice in DML was also correlated with sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the tropical Pacific, and to an atmospheric wave train pattern extending from the South Pacific to DML. We suggest that a southward‐propagating atmospheric wave train triggered by SST anomalies in the tropical Pacific extends into DML and alters sea ice concentration by encouraging meridional airflow. Our results showed that shifts in meridional flow in DML affected sea ice thermodynamically, by altering local heat transport and in turn altering sea ice formation and melt.
Meteorological Environments Associated With California Wildfires and Their Potential Roles in Wildfire Changes During 1984–2017
Authors: Dong Lu , Leung L. Ruby , Qian Yun , Zou Yufei , Song Fengfei , Chen Xiaodong
Published: February 2021

California has experienced more wildfires in recent years, resulting in huge economic losses and threatening human health. Clarifying the meteorological environments of wildfires is foundational to improving the understanding and prediction of wildfires and their impacts. Here, 1,535 California wildfires during 1984–2017 are systematically investigated. Based on two key meteorological factors—temperature and moisture anomalies—all wildfires are classified into four groups: hot‐dry, hot‐wet, cold‐dry, cold‐wet. Most (∼60%) wildfires occurred on hot‐dry days. Compositing the meteorological environments of the four groups shows that persistent high pressure and strong northeasterly wind descending from inland favor hot‐dry conditions for wildfires. Self‐organizing map analysis lends confidence in the large‐scale meteorological pattern dominating hot‐dry wildfires in California. Meteorological anomalies also influence wildfire size through their magnitudes, with moisture anomaly explaining the largest fraction (∼69%) of variability in wildfire sizes. In addition, 12.2% of wildfires occurred on hot‐wet days, which may be related with lightning flashes. More lightning tends to trigger wildfires, but the wet condition helps to suppress the wildfire sizes. Total burned area by wildfires has significantly increased by ∼3.6% per year, indicating a doubling of burned area in 2017 relative to 1984, mainly dominated by hot‐dry wildfires in summer. Drying and warming in conjunction with strengthening of the high pressure in summer and fall have the potential to support more frequent and larger hot‐dry wildfires in California during the past several decades.
High‐Frequency Seismic Events on Mars Observed by InSight
Authors: van Driel Martin , Ceylan Savas , Clinton John F. , Giardini Domenico , Horleston Anna , Margerin Ludovic , Stähler Simon C. , Böse Maren , Charalambous Constantinos , Kawamura Taichi , Khan Amir , Orhand‐Mainsant Guenolé , Scholz John‐R. , Euchner Fabian , Knapmeyer Martin , Schmerr Nicholas , Pike William T. , Lognonné Philippe , Banerdt William B.
Published: February 2021

The seismometer deployed on the surface of Mars as part of the InSight mission (Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport) has recorded several hundreds of marsquakes in the first 478 sols after landing. The majority of these are classified as high‐frequency (HF) events in the frequency range from approximately 1 to 10 Hz on Mars' surface. All the HF events excite a resonance around 2.4 Hz and show two distinct but broad arrivals of seismic energy that are separated by up to 450 s. Based on the frequency content and vertical‐to‐horizontal energy ratio, the HF event family has been subdivided into three event types, two of which we show to be identical and only appear separated due to the signal‐to‐noise ratio. We show here that the envelope shape of the HF events is explained by guided Pg and Sg phases in the Martian crust using simple layered models with scattering. Furthermore, the relative travel times between these two arrivals can be related to the epicentral distance, which shows distinct clustering. The rate at which HF events are observed varies by an order of magnitude over the course of one year and cannot be explained by changes of the background noise only. The HF content and the absence of additional seismic phases constrain crustal attenuation and layering, and the coda shape constrains the diffusivity in the uppermost shallow layers of Mars.
Removal of nonimpacted third molars alters the periodontal condition of their neighbors clinically, immunologically, and microbiologically
Authors: Tian Yi , Sun Lijuan , Qu Honglei , Yang Yang , Chen Faming
Published: February 2021

Considering the adverse effects of nonimpacted third molars (N-M3s) on the periodontal health of adjacent second molars (M2s), the removal of N-M3s may be beneficial to the periodontal health of their neighbors. This study aimed to investigate the clinical, immunological, and microbiological changes of the periodontal condition around M2s following removal of neighboring N-M3s across a 6-month period. Subjects with at least one quadrant containing an intact first molar (M1), M2, and N-M3 were screened and those who met the inclusion criteria and decided to receive N-M3 extraction were recruited in the following investigation. M2 periodontal condition was interrogated before M3 extraction (baseline) and at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. Improvements in clinical periodontal indexes of M2s in response to their adjacent N-M3 removal, along with changes in inflammatory biomarkers among gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) and the composition of subgingival plaque collected from the distal sites of the M2s of the targeted quadrant were parallelly analyzed. Complete data of 26 tooth extraction patients across the follow-up period were successfully obtained and subsequently applied for statistical analysis. Compared to the baseline, the periodontal condition of M2s was significantly changed 6 months after N-M3 removal; specifically, the probing depth of M2s significantly reduced (P < 0.001), the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-8 concentration involved in GCF significantly decreased (P = 0.025), and the abundance of the pathogenic generaunidentified PrevotellaceaeandStreptococcussignificantly decreased (P < 0.001 andP = 0.009, respectively). We concluded that N-M3 removal was associated with superior clinical indexes, decreased GCF inflammatory biomarkers, and reduced pathogenic microbiome distribution within the subgingival plaque. Although the retention or removal of N-M3s continues to be controversial, our findings provide additional evidence that medical decisions should be made as early as possible or at least before the neighboring teeth are irretrievably damaged.
Green revolution in electronic displays expected to ease energy and health crises
Authors: Wang Yuyang , Nie Hui , Han Jinsong , An Yaxun , Zhang Yu-Mo , Zhang Sean Xiao-An
Published: February 2021

The technological revolution of long-awaited energy-saving and vision-friendly displays represented by bistable display technology is coming. Here we discuss methods, challenges, and opportunities for implementing bistable displays in terms of molecular design, device structure, further expansion, and required criteria, hopefully benefiting the light-related community.
Publisher Correction: Ensemble learning of diffractive optical networks
Authors: Rahman Md Sadman Sakib , Li Jingxi , Mengu Deniz , Rivenson Yair , Ozcan Aydogan
Published: February 2021

A Correction to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41377-021-00473-1
Inhibition of cystathionine β-synthase promotes apoptosis and reduces cell proliferation in chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Wang Dan , Yang Huan , Zhang Yun , Hu Rong , Hu Dongjie , Wang Qunxian , Liu Yannan , Liu Mingjing , Meng Zijun , Zhou Weihui , Song Weihong
Published: February 2021

Increased endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S) level by cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) has been shown to closely relate tumorigenesis. H2S promotes angiogenesis, stimulates bioenergy metabolism and inhibits selective phosphatases. However, the role of CBS and H2S in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) remains elusive. In this study, we found that CBS and H2S levels were increased in the bone marrow mononuclear cells of pediatric CML patients, as well as in the CML-derived K562 cells and CBS expression levels were correlated with different disease phases. Inhibition of CBS reduced the proliferation of the CML primary bone marrow mononuclear cells and induced growth inhibition, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and migration suppression in K562 cells and tumor xenografts. The knockdown of CBS expression by shRNA and inhibiting CBS activity by AOAA decreased the endogenous H2S levels, promoted mitochondrial-related apoptosis and inhibited the NF-κB-mediated gene expression. Our study suggests that inhibition of CBS induces cell apoptosis, as well as limits cell proliferation and migration, a potential target for the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia.
The mTORC1 complex in pre-osteoblasts regulates whole-body energy metabolism independently of osteocalcin
Authors: Tangseefa Pawanrat , Martin Sally K. , Chin Peck Yin , Breen James , Mah Chui Yan , Baldock Paul A. , Wittert Gary A. , Page Amanda J. , Proud Christopher G. , Fitter Stephen , Zannettino Andrew C. W.
Published: February 2021

Overnutrition causes hyperactivation of mTORC1-dependent negative feedback loops leading to the downregulation of insulin signaling and development of insulin resistance. In osteoblasts (OBs), insulin signaling plays a crucial role in the control of systemic glucose homeostasis. We utilized mice with conditional deletion of Rptor to investigate how the loss of mTORC1 function in OB affects glucose metabolism under normal and overnutrition dietary states. Compared to the controls, chow-fed Rptorob−/− mice had substantially less fat mass and exhibited adipocyte hyperplasia. Remarkably, upon feeding with high-fat diet, mice with pre- and post-natal deletion of Rptor in OBs were protected from diet-induced obesity and exhibited improved glucose metabolism with lower fasting glucose and insulin levels, increased glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity. This leanness and resistance to weight gain was not attributable to changes in food intake, physical activity or lipid absorption but instead was due to increased energy expenditure and greater whole-body substrate flexibility. RNA-seq revealed an increase in glycolysis and skeletal insulin signaling pathways, which correlated with the potentiation of insulin signaling and increased insulin-dependent glucose uptake in Rptor-knockout osteoblasts. Collectively, these findings point to a critical role for the mTORC1 complex in the skeletal regulation of whole-body glucose metabolism and the skeletal development of insulin resistance.