bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of Chronic Physical Activity in Alleviating the Detrimental Relationship of Childhood Obesity on Brain and Cognition
Authors: Hsieh Shu-Shih , Raine Lauren B. , Ortega Francisco B. , Hillman Charles H.
Published: November 2021

Childhood obesity and its negative relation with children’s brain health has become a growing health concern. Over the last decade, literature has indicated that physical activity attenuates cognitive impairment associated with obesity and excess adiposity in children. However, there is no comprehensive review that considers the extent to which these factors affect different domains of cognition. This narrative review comprehensively summarizes behavioral, neuroimaging, and neuroelectric findings associated with chronic physical activity and fitness on brain and cognition in childhood obesity. Based on the literature reviewed, increased adiposity has a demonstrated relationship with neurocognitive health via mechanisms triggered by central inflammation and insulin resistance, with the most pronounced decrements observed for cognitive domains that are prefrontal- and hippocampal-dependent. Fortunately, physical activity, especially interventions enhancing aerobic fitness and motor coordination, have demonstrated efficacy for attenuating the negative effects of obesity across different subdomains of structural and functional brain imaging, cognition, and multiple academic outcomes in children with overweight or obesity. Such mitigating effects may be accounted for by attenuated central inflammation, improved insulin sensitivity, and increased expression of neurotrophic factors. Lastly, individual differences appear to play a role in this relationship, as the manipulation of physical activity characteristics, the employment of a wide array of cognitive and academic measures, the inclusion of different adiposity measures that are sensitive to neurocognitive function, and the utilization of an inter-disciplinary approach have been found to influence the relationship between physical activity and excess adiposity on brain and cognition.
Power system analysis and integration of the proposed Nigerian 750-kV power line to the grid reliability
Authors: Abdulkareem Ademola , Somefun T. E. , Awosope C. O. A. , Olabenjo O.
Published: November 2021

The present situation of power generation in Nigeria obviously represents a challenge to our ability for rethinking the delivery of energy at maximum efficiency. Previous research on the existing Nigerian 330-kV network grid, recommended that the network be transformed from radial to ring because of high losses inherent in it and the voltage insecurity. In this study, the existing 330-kV network was reconfigured based on the identified regions mapped out for upgrade to form a ringed 750-kV super grid. The bus voltages of some of the buses in the existing 330-kV were upgraded to 750-kV and new transmission lines added to create an integrated super grid with a ring structure as compared to the radial nature of the existing 330-kV grid. These proposed buses have been selected for upgrade based on the fact that they are positioned in critical areas within the topology of the grid that transforms the existing radial structure to a ring one. The method is also cheaper than making the entire network a 750-kV system. Load-flow analysis was carried out on the existing 330-kV Nigerian Grid and the proposed Nigerian 750-kV integrated into the existing grid using Newton–Raphson algorithm. The results analysis of the new network revealed a significant reduction of 30.2% power loss. This was validated using the code-based MATLAB and Power World Simulation model-based software. Contingency analysis was also carried out on both grids using the Power World Simulator. The study revealed that the 750-kV super grid was able to mitigate the losses experienced on the existing grid significantly with better voltage profiles in all the buses. It also revealed that the new network (330-kV and 750-kV integrated) performed better to the single line contingency analysis with less violations occurring and no unsolvable cases.
Sub-ns-pulsed laser cleaning of an archaeological bone from the Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain: a case study
Authors: Rahman Md. Ashiqur , de la Fuente German F. , Carretero José Miguel , Maingi Evan Maina , Alonso Abad Mª Pilar , Alonso Alcalde Rodrigo , Chapoulie Rémy , Schiavon Nick , Angurel Luis A.
Published: November 2021

Controlled laser irradiation parameters using recently developed sub-nanosecond pulsed laser technology with emission wavelength in the near Infrared regime (1064 nm) have been assessed on a Pleistocene bone from the archaeological site of Sierra de Atapuerca, Spain. Burst pulse mode was employed to explore contaminant removal efficiency, while at the same time, assessing the degree of damage produced to the underlying original substrate surface. The surface morphology and composition of the deteriorated bone have been characterized, along with the effects of laser irradiation at 1064 nm, using Optical Microscopy (OM), Scanning Electron Microscopy–with Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry (SEM–EDS), and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS). The most effective laser cleaning parameters in burst mode have been identified in order to optimize the emission parameters of the laser, thus localizing its interaction within the outermost layers of contaminants and degradation products, avoiding damage to the underlying original bone surface. Hence, threshold cleaning and substrate damage values have been determined for this new sub-ns laser, paving the way to safer laser cleaning procedures that may be useful for the effective conservation of bone archaeological artifacts.
Suicidal behaviors among Latina adolescents: An ecodevelopmental approach and narrative review
Authors: Querdasi Francesca R. , Bacio Guadalupe A.
Published: November 2021

Introduction

For the past several decades, Latina adolescents have consistently shown high rates of suicidal behaviors (i.e., suicidal ideation, planning, and attempts), higher than Latino adolescents and adolescents of most other ethnic groups. Yet, progress toward establishing evidence‐based intervention efforts to address this urgent public health issue has been slow. The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize empirical findings on etiological factors associated with Latina adolescent suicidal behaviors using an ecodevelopmental, gender‐specific framework that contextualizes Latina adolescent development.

Methods

To be included, peer reviewed empirical manuscripts had to focus on suicidal behaviors (i.e., suicide attempts, suicide plan, and/or suicidal ideation) of adolescents (ages 11–19 or in grades 7–12) who self‐identified as either Latina or Hispanic and a girl in the United States.

Results

A total of 19 studies met review criteria and focused on microsystemic and intrapersonal predictors. Microsystemic predictors included family (i.e., family‐adolescent discrepancies in acculturation, family functioning, family‐daughter interactions), peer (i.e., victimization, friendships), and school (i.e., functioning, achievement) factors, while intrapersonal predictors were emotional vulnerability, psychosocial functioning, and substance use.

Conclusions

Family‐related phenomena were the most widely studied. Research on school and peer microsystems was comparatively sparse, and several promising intrapersonal development factors have been underexplored. A notable limitation of existing studies is that samples consisted primarily of U.S.‐born adolescents living in urban areas. Additional research is needed to characterize factors on other ecodevelopmental levels, identify resilience processes, and examine within‐group diversity among Latina adolescents. Implications for intervention and future directions are discussed.
Environmental Movements of India
Authors: Mallick Krishna
Published: November 2021

In her detailed retelling of three iconic movements in India, Professor Emerita Krishna Mallick, PhD, gives hope to grassroots activists working toward environmental justice. Each movement deals with a different crisis and affected population: Chipko, famed for tree-hugging women in the Himalayan forest; Narmada, for villagers displaced by a massive dam; and Navdanya, for hundreds of thousands of farmers whose livelihoods were lost to a compact made by the Indian government and neoliberal purveyors of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Relentlessly researched, the book presents these movements in a framework that explores Hindu Vedic wisdom, as well as Development Ethics, Global Environment Ethics, Feminist Care Ethics, and the Capability Approach.  At a moment when the climate threatens populations who live closest to nature - and depend upon its fodder for heat, its water for life, and its seeds for food - Mallick shows how nonviolent action can give poor people an effective voice.
Surface Warming Trend Analysis Based on MODIS/Terra Land Surface Temperature Product at Gongga Mountain in the Southeastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhao Wei , Yang Mengjiao , Chang Ruiying , Zhan Qiqi , Li Zhao‐Liang
Published: November 2021

As the highest mountain in the southeastern Tibetan Plateau, Gongga Mountain is highly sensitive to climate change which is hardly assessed with limited meteorological stations in this region. To analyze the warming trend of Gongga Mountain, the mean annual surface temperature (MAT) was extracted based on an annual temperature cycle model with the MODIS/Terra daily land surface temperature (LST) product and used to identify the MAT trends from 2000 to 2018 using the Mann‐Kendall trend test. The results indicate that almost all the pixels passing a significance test with the confidence level of 95% show an increasing trend, and the daytime MAT exhibited a stronger warming trend with the mean rate of 0.11 K/yr than the nighttime MAT (0.07 K/yr). However, more pixels (30.2%) exhibited significant warming trends at night than during the daytime (21.6%). Additionally, the significant warming pixels were mainly distributed above 3,200 m, and the number of pixels increased with elevation. Most importantly, the statistics of the daytime and nighttime changing rates at different elevation ranges support elevation‐dependent warming (EDW). These warming patterns are connected to changes in snow and cloud cover and the rate shows good correlations with the changes in clear‐sky days and vegetation cover conditions. In general, this study verifies that remotely sensed LST can be used to analyze the warming trends in mountain areas and identifies the presence of EDW at Gongga Mountain. This trend could result in a strong influence on the local mountain ecosystem functions, water resources, and glacial changes.
Middle to Late Eocene Changes of the Ocean Carbonate Cycle
Authors: Borrelli C. , Katz M. E. , Toggweiler J. R.
Published: November 2021

Sedimentary records show that calcium carbonate (CaCO3) preservation fluctuated during the Eocene. These fluctuations are well documented for the equatorial Pacific. However, data from other basins are sparse. In this study, we report new middle and late Eocene bulk calcium carbonate percentages and accumulation rates from the northwestern Pacific (Ocean Drilling Program—ODP—Site 884) and the Atlantic (ODP Sites 1053, 1090, and 1263) Oceans; in addition, we calculate CaCO3 accumulation rates for sites with published percentage bulk CaCO3 to expand geographic and paleobathymetric coverage. Using these data, we investigate the response of the carbonate cycle to environmental changes (e.g., temperatures, primary productivity, weathering, and ocean circulation) at the beginning of the greenhouse‐icehouse transition (∼43–34 Ma). Our results show that in the middle to late Eocene CaCO3 accumulation rates were highly variable at different paleodepths and ocean basins suggesting that the evolution of carbonate accumulation rates over the Eocene was influenced by different processes in different locations. In particular, our data emphasize the role of surface CaCO3 production and ocean ventilation in driving changes in CaCO3 preservation and burial at the seafloor. Our study also highlights the need for a better understanding of the processes regulating CaCO3 surface production today in order to correctly interpret geological records.
The Benefits of Better Ocean Weather Forecasting
Authors: DeMott Charlotte , Mu�oz �ngel , Roberts Christopher , Spillman Claire , Vitart Frederic
Published: November 2021

Improvements in our ability to forecast oceanic conditions weeks to months in advance will help communities, industries, and other groups prepare amid a changing climate.
A Transition Zone Below Jupiter’s Cloud
Authors: Rehnberg Morgan
Published: November 2021

The microwave radiometer aboard NASA’s Juno spacecraft reveals the hidden atmospheric circulations at work deep below Jupiter’s colorful clouds.
Traditional Knowledge Is Essential to Sustainability in the Amazon
Authors: Rodrigues Meghie
Published: November 2021

At COP26, the Science Panel for the Amazon is emphasizing the need for Indigenous and Local Knowledge to inform scientific and policy recommendations.
Performance of the NGX High‐Resolution Multiple Collector Noble Gas Mass Spectrometer
Authors: Li Yan , Tootell Damian , Holland Greg , Zhou Zheng
Published: November 2021

This paper describes the design, setup, and performance of a new analytical system installed at Lancaster University, UK, to determine noble gas isotopes in gas samples using an NGX high‐resolution multiple collector noble gas mass spectrometer. The fixed position Faraday cups are configured to simultaneously measure all nine Xe isotopes whilst permitting all other noble gases, such as He, to be analyzed in peak jumping mode. The stability, sensitivity, and reproducibility of the measurements using this new noble gas analytical system were examined by repeating runs of atmospheric air. Reproducibility of the measurements obtained from 90 and 73 air standard runs are 4.2% and 0.4% for 3He/4He and 21Ne/20Ne, respectively. There is no significant difference in the 40Ar/36Ar ratio measurements with various 40Ar abundances, suggesting good sensitivity and pressure linearity of the NGX instrument. The standard errors for 124Xe/130Xe, 126Xe/130Xe, 128Xe/130Xe, 129Xe/130Xe, 131Xe/130Xe, 132Xe/130Xe, 134Xe/130Xe and 136Xe/130Xe in 46 air measurements are 0.782%, 0.804%, 0.053%, 0.029%, 0.029%, 0.029%, 0.030%, and 0.031%, respectively. In contrast, the corresponding reference values from Basford et al. (1973) are 0.342%, 0.505%, 0.148%, 0.139%, 0.153%, 0.076%, 0.156%, and 0.138%, respectively. This suggests that multicollection measurements of Xe isotopes on Faraday cups using the NGX have higher precision than the previous results except for 124Xe and 126Xe, where low abundances affect the measurement precision. Compared to traditional peak jumping single‐collector mass spectrometers, the NGX has significantly decreased analytical time in Xe analysis by allowing simultaneous measurements of all isotopes. As a consequence, high analytical precision can be achieved.
Multi‐Point Observation of Hiss Emerging From Lightning Whistlers
Authors: Santolík Ondřej , Kolmašová Ivana , Pickett Jolene S. , Gurnett Donald A.
Published: November 2021

We analyze continuous multi‐point measurements of electromagnetic field waveforms onboard the Cluster spacecraft in order to contribute to the discussion on sources of plasmaspheric hiss, known as a shaping agent for the Earth radiation belts. In our case study we aim at finding sources of hiss observed close to the geomagnetic equator in the outer plasmasphere on the dayside. We find hiss to be triggered from whistlers of different spectral properties. Whistlers with the lowest observed dispersion arrive to different spacecraft with time delays indicating their origin in the northern hemisphere. Positions of source lightning discharges are then found using the time coincidences with the Word Wide Lightning Location Network data from three active thunderstorm regions in Europe. We find that subionospheric propagation of lightning atmospherics is necessary to explain the observations. Geographic locations of their ionospheric exit points then determine spectral properties of resulting unducted whistlers and triggered hiss. By this well documented chain of events starting with a lightning discharge in the atmosphere we confirm that magnetospherically reflecting whistlers and hiss triggered from them are among possible sources of plasmaspheric hiss.
Simultaneous UV Images and High‐Latitude Particle and Field Measurements During an Auroral Dawn Storm at Jupiter
Authors: Ebert R. W. , Greathouse T. K. , Clark G. , Hue V. , Allegrini F. , Bagenal F. , Bolton S. J. , Bonfond B. , Connerney J. E. P. , Gladstone G. R. , Imai M. , Kotsiaros S. , Kurth W. S. , Levin S. , Louarn P. , Mauk B. H. , McComas D. J. , Paranicas C. , Sulaiman A. H. , Szalay J. R. , Thomsen M. F. , Wilson R. J.
Published: November 2021

We present multi‐instrument Juno observations on day‐of‐year 86, 2017 that link particles and fields in Jupiter's polar magnetosphere to transient UV emissions in Jupiter's northern auroral region known as dawn storms. Juno ranged from 42°N to 51°N in magnetic latitude and 5.8–7.8 Jovian radii (1 RJ = 71,492 km) during this period. These dawn storm emissions consisted of two separate, elongated structures which extended into the nightside, rotated with the planet, had enhanced brightness (up to at least 1.4 megaRayleigh) and high color ratios. The color ratio is a proxy for the atmospheric penetration depth and therefore the energy of the electrons that produce the UV emissions. Juno observed electrons and ions on magnetic field lines mapping to these emissions. The electrons were primarily field‐aligned, bidirectional, and, at times, exhibited sudden intensity decreases below ∼10 keV coincident with intensity enhancements up to energies of ∼1,000 keV, consistent with the high color ratio observations. The more energetic electron distributions had characteristic energies of ∼160–280 keV and downward energy fluxes (∼70–135 mW m−2) that were a significant fraction needed to produce the UV emissions for this event. Magnetic field perturbations up to ∼0.7% of the local magnetic field showing evidence of upward and downward field‐aligned currents, whistler mode waves, and broadband kilometric radio emissions were also observed along Juno's trajectory during this time frame. These high‐latitude observations show similarities to those in the equatorial magnetosphere associated with dynamics processes such as interchange events, plasma injections, and/or tail reconnection.
Ionospheric Plasma Vertical Drift and Zonal Wind Variations Cause Unusual Evolution of EPBs During a Geomagnetically Quiet Night
Authors: Wu Kun , Xu Jiyao , Zhu Yajun , Yuan Wei
Published: November 2021

Previous studies show equatorial plasma bubbles (EPBs) mainly occur after sunset and usually drift from west to east. In this work, two EPBs occurred after midnight and lasted to sunrise, and were observed by multi‐instruments (two all‐sky imagers (ASIs), global positioning system, Swarm satellite, and a digisonde) during a geomagnetically quiet night of December 18–19, 2018. Our observations also show that plasma depletion structure (PDS) also occurred at that night. EPBs occurred in the region of PDS and showed a special evolution process during the night. Those PDS gradually disappeared with time, but strip‐like EPBs remained clearly in airglow images. Near sunrise, new PDS appeared to merge with those EPBs to form large PDS. Meanwhile, EPBs showed different zonal drifts within a very narrow longitudinal zone (∼2°). One EPB remained stationary while the other showed a small eastward drift. These results are different from post‐sunset EPBs in previous studies. During the lifetime of those ionospheric plasma irregularities, upward and downward motion of the peak height and virtual height of the ionospheric F region was observed by a digisonde, which indicates that the evolution of EPBs should be related to the vertical drift of ionospheric plasma. Besides, based Thermosphere‐Ionosphere‐Electrodynamics General Circulation Model (TIE‐GCM) simulations, we suggest the different zonal drifts of those EPBs might related to plasma zonal drifts caused by zonal winds.
Post‐20 ka Earthquake Scarps Along NE‐Tibet's Qilian Shan Frontal Thrust: Multi‐Millennial Return, ∼Characteristic Co‐Seismic Slip, and Geological Rupture Control
Authors: Li Zhanfei , Xu Xiwei , Tapponnier Paul , Chen Guihua , Li Kang , Luo Jiahong , Cheng Jia , Kang Wenjun
Published: November 2021

Earthquake slip distributions help constrain rupture behavior and return times. Here, by combining 0.5‐m‐resolution image and topographic data interpretation with fieldwork, we quantify the co‐seismic throw distribution and rupture geometry of the 1609 Hongyazi earthquake along the Qilian Shan Fodongmiao fontal thrust (NE Tibet). We measured 396 vertical offsets across mapped geomorphic units along the thrust trace. The 1609 rupture was ∼118‐km long, with average co‐seismic throw and slip amounts of ∼1.8 ± 1.0 and ∼2.9 ± 1.4 m, respectively, consistent with a magnitude Mw of 7.4 ± 0.3. Along the ∼88‐km‐long western stretch of the thrust, our data also reveal five distinct clusters with peak cumulative throws (∼4.9, 9.3, 13.8, 18.0, and 22.2 m), implying older ruptures with nearly characteristic slip during five Mw ∼ 7.6–7.8 events, three of which were also identified in trenches. Two of these earthquakes ruptured the entire thrust, while three mainly broke the western and middle segments. The thrust geometry and segmentation are influenced by geological inheritance. The middle segment emplaces Silurian granites atop Quaternary alluvium, which may account for its irregularly cusped trace, and favor rupturing during large, Mw ∼7.8 events with multi‐millennium (∼3.7 +0.5/−2.2 ka) return times. Since ∼20 ka, the Fodongmiao Thrust has kept shortening and uplifting Tibet's northeastern boundary at steady rates of ∼1.4 and 1.1 mm/a, respectively. The remaining oblique component of convergence across the ∼800‐km‐long pushup between the Altyn Tagh and Haiyuan faults is absorbed by slip partitioning along the left‐lateral Changma and Lenglongling faults.
A Reduced Order Approach for Probabilistic Inversions of 3D Magnetotelluric Data II: Joint Inversion of MT and Surface‐Wave Data
Authors: Manassero M. C. , Afonso J. C. , Zyserman F. I. , Jones A. G. , Zlotnik S. , Fomin I.
Published: November 2021

Joint probabilistic inversions of magnetotelluric (MT) and seismic data have great potential for imaging the thermochemical structure of the lithosphere as well as mapping fluid/melt pathways and regions of mantle metasomatism. In this contribution, we present a novel probabilistic (Bayesian) joint inversion scheme for 3D MT and surface‐wave dispersion data particularly designed for large‐scale lithospheric studies. The approach makes use of a recently developed strategy for fast solutions of the 3D MT forward problem (Manassero et al., 2020,https://doi.org/10.1093/gji/ggaa415) and combines it with adaptive Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) algorithms and parallel‐in‐parallel strategies to achieve extremely efficient simulations. To demonstrate the feasibility, benefits and performance of our joint inversion method for imaging the temperature and conductivity structures of the lithosphere, we apply it to two numerical examples of increasing complexity. The inversion approach presented here is timely and will be useful in the joint analysis of MT and surface wave data that are being collected in many parts of the world. This approach also opens up new avenues for the study of trans‐lithospheric and trans‐crustal magmatic systems, the detection of metasomatized mantle, and the incorporation of MT into multi‐observable inversions for the physical state of the Earth's interior.
Meridional Eddy Heat Transport Variability in the Surface Mixed Layer of the Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Müller Vasco , Melnichenko Oleg
Published: November 2021

We analyze the interannual variability and trends of the eddy heat transport (EHT) in the surface mixed layer of the Atlantic Ocean from covariances of sea surface temperature (SST) and geostrophic velocities from satellite observations between 1993 and 2018. The EHT is largest along the path of the Gulf Stream in the Northern Hemisphere and the vicinity of the Agulhas Retroflection and Argentine basin in the Southern Hemisphere. On average, meridional EHT in the mixed layer leads to a divergence of heat away from the subtropics in both hemispheres toward the equator and higher latitudes. Depending on latitude, the divergence of the EHT accounts for around 1%–5% of the atmospheric net surface heat flux, but reaches as much as 20% for certain regions. The EHT can be linked to eddy kinetic energy (EKE) and meridional SST gradients using mixing length hypothesis, but the variability of EKE and SST gradients are not enough to capture local EHT variability. For different latitudes, the EHT shows different behavior over time, with a strong increase in northward EHT in the Gulf Stream region, and a decadal oscillation of poleward EHT in the tropical and subtropical regions. This oscillation on larger scales is highly correlated with spatially averaged EKE and the large‐scale SST gradients. A comparison with climate indices indicates a relation to Atlantic climate variability, especially the meridional modes of the Tropical Atlantic Variability and the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO).
Two‐Dimensional Striking Distance of Lightning Flashes to a Cluster of Tall Buildings in Guangzhou
Authors: Qi Q. , Lyu W. , Wang D. , Wu B. , Ma Y. , Chen L. , Lyu F. , Jiang R.
Published: November 2021

Based on the high‐speed video records of 54 lightning flashes striking on a cluster of tall buildings in Guangzhou and the return stroke peak currents provided by lightning location systems, this paper analyzed the two‐dimensional (2D) first‐return‐stroke striking distances (SD) of lightning flashes to buildings with a height ranging from 100 to 600 m. Three methods, including one proposed in this study, have been used to estimate the 2D SD. The results with different methods basically agree with each other and show that the height and the top geometry of the structure on which lightning terminates are key factors that affect the SD. The correlation between the SD and the peak return stroke current appeared very scattered, particularly in the cases when each building was considered separately. Besides, we found that: (a) the estimated 2D average initiation speed of upward connecting leader (UCL) on different buildings are similar, ranging from 4.9 to 23 × 104 m/s, with an average of 13.4 × 104 m/s; (b) about 87% (27/31) flashes that struck on buildings with simple top shape only have one upward leader observed, while for buildings with complicated top shape, only 26% (6/23) flash cases have one upward leader observed; (c) for the 36 flashes to four tall buildings with heights higher than 300 m, the 2D average speed ratio of the downward leader and the UCL is 0.74 during the last 0.1 ms before the first return stroke.
Re‐Evaluation of Large Martian Ripples in Gale Crater: Granulometric Evidence for an Impact Mechanism and Terrestrial Analogues
Authors: Gough Tyler R. , Hugenholtz Chris H. , Barchyn Thomas E.
Published: November 2021

Mars hosts three scales of superimposed aeolian bedforms: small decimeter‐scale impact ripples, large meter‐scale ripples, and dunes. The formation mechanism for large meter‐scale ripples is enigmatic and debated. This debate is largely informed by two questions: (a) Are large ripples similar to any features on Earth? and (b) Do they have the same grain size distribution as dunes and impact ripples? We address these questions using a novel digitizing approach to produce the largest known data set of Mars ripple sand grain size to date. We find a distinction between the grain size distributions of small ripples and large ripples and suggest that analogous bedforms are found on Earth. Despite an inability to perform rigorous sedimentology on Mars, results help resolve outstanding questions in bedform physics and support a hypothesis that aeolian ripples on Mars develop by a terrestrially analogous impact mechanism.
Long-term survival after intensive chemotherapy or hypomethylating agents in AML patients aged 70 years and older: a large patient data set study from European registries
Authors: Récher Christian , Röllig Christoph , Bérard Emilie , Bertoli Sarah , Dumas Pierre-Yves , Tavitian Suzanne , Kramer Michael , Serve Hubert , Bornhäuser Martin , Platzbecker Uwe , Müller-Tidow Carsten , Baldus Claudia D. , Martínez-Cuadrón David , Serrano Josefina , Martínez-Sánchez Pilar , Arbolí Eduardo Rodríguez , Gil Cristina , Bergua Juan , Bernal Teresa , de la Fuente Burguera Adolfo , Delabesse Eric , Bidet Audrey , Pigneux Arnaud , Montesinos Pau
Published: November 2021

The outcome of acute myeloid leukemia patients aged 70 years or older is poor. Defining the best treatment option remains controversial especially when choosing between intensive chemotherapy and hypomethylating agents. We set up a multicentric European database collecting data of 3 700 newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia patients ≥70 years. The primary objective was to compare overall survival in patients selected for intensive chemotherapy (n = 1199) or hypomethylating agents (n = 1073). With a median follow-up of 49.5 months, the median overall survival was 10.9 (95% CI: 9.7–11.6) and 9.2 months (95% CI: 8.3–10.2) with chemotherapy and hypomethylating agents, respectively. Complete remission or complete remission with incomplete hematologic recovery was 56.1% and 19.7% with chemotherapy and hypomethylating agents, respectively (P < 0.0001). Treatment effect on overall survival was time-dependent. The Royston and Parmar model showed that patients treated with hypomethylating agents had a significantly lower risk of death before 1.5 months of follow-up; no significant difference between 1.5 and 4.0 months, whereas patients treated with intensive chemotherapy had a significantly better overall survival from four months after start of therapy. This study shows that intensive chemotherapy remains a valuable option associated with a better long-term survival in older AML patients.
Mitotic phosphorylation of tumor suppressor DAB2IP maintains spindle assembly checkpoint and chromosomal stability through activating PLK1-Mps1 signal pathway and stabilizing mitotic checkpoint complex
Authors: Yu Lan , Lang Yue , Hsu Ching-Cheng , Chen Wei-Min , Chiang Jui-Chung , Hsieh Jer-Tsong , Story Michael D. , Shang Zeng-Fu , Chen Benjamin P. C. , Saha Debabrata
Published: November 2021

Chromosomal instability (CIN) is a driving force for cancer development. The most common causes of CIN include the dysregulation of the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), which is a surveillance mechanism that prevents premature chromosome separation during mitosis by targeting anaphase-promoting complex/cyclosome (APC/C). DAB2IP is frequently silenced in advanced prostate cancer (PCa) and is associated with aggressive phenotypes of PCa. Our previous study showed that DAB2IP activates PLK1 and functions in mitotic regulation. Here, we report the novel mitotic phosphorylation of DAB2IP by Cdks, which mediates DAB2IP’s interaction with PLK1 and the activation of the PLK1-Mps1 pathway. DAB2IP interacts with Cdc20 in a phosphorylation-independent manner. However, the phosphorylation of DAB2IP inhibits the ubiquitylation of Cdc20 in response to SAC, and blocks the premature release of the APC/C-MCC. The PLK1-Mps1 pathway plays an important role in mitotic checkpoint complex (MCC) assembly. It is likely that DAB2IP acts as a scaffold to aid PLK1-Mps1 in targeting Cdc20. Depletion or loss of the Cdks-mediated phosphorylation of DAB2IP destabilizes the MCC, impairs the SAC, and increases chromosome missegregation and subsequent CIN, thus contributing to tumorigenesis. Collectively, these results demonstrate the mechanism of DAB2IP in SAC regulation and provide a rationale for targeting the SAC to cause lethal CIN against DAB2IP-deficient aggressive PCa, which exhibits a weak SAC.
Evolution of HER2-positive mammary carcinoma: HER2 loss reveals claudin-low traits in cancer progression
Authors: Giusti Veronica , Ruzzi Francesca , Landuzzi Lorena , Ianzano Marianna L. , Laranga Roberta , Nironi Elena , Scalambra Laura , Nicoletti Giordano , De Giovanni Carla , Olivero Martina , Arigoni Maddalena , Calogero Raffaele , Nanni Patrizia , Palladini Arianna , Lollini Pier-Luigi
Published: November 2021

HER2-positive breast cancers may lose HER2 expression in recurrences and metastases. In this work, we studied cell lines derived from two transgenic mammary tumors driven by human HER2 that showed different dynamics of HER2 status. MamBo89HER2stable cell line displayed high and stable HER2 expression, which was maintained upon in vivo passages, whereas MamBo43HER2labile cell line gave rise to HER2-negative tumors from which MamBo38HER2loss cell line was derived. Both low-density seeding and in vitro trastuzumab treatment of MamBo43HER2labile cells induced the loss of HER2 expression. MamBo38HER2loss cells showed a spindle-like morphology, high stemness and acquired in vivo malignancy. A comprehensive molecular profile confirmed the loss of addiction to HER2 signaling and acquisition of an EMT signature, together with increased angiogenesis and migration ability. We identified PDGFR-B among the newly expressed determinants of MamBo38HER2loss cell tumorigenic ability. Sunitinib inhibited MamBo38HER2loss tumor growth in vivo and reduced stemness and IL6 production in vitro. In conclusion, HER2-positive mammary tumors can evolve into tumors that display distinctive traits of claudin-low tumors. Our dynamic model of HER2 status can lead to the identification of new druggable targets, such as PDGFR-B, in order to counteract the resistance to HER2-targeted therapy that is caused by HER2 loss.
Emerging role of G9a in cancer stemness and promises as a therapeutic target
Authors: Haebe Joshua R. , Bergin Christopher J. , Sandouka Tamara , Benoit Yannick D.
Published: November 2021

The histone methyltransferase G9a is well-documented for its implication in neoplastic growth. However, recent investigations have demonstrated a key involvement of this chromatin writer in maintaining the self-renewal and tumor-initiating capacities of cancer stem cells (CSCs). Direct inhibition of G9a’s catalytic activity was reported as a promising therapeutic target in multiple preclinical studies. Yet, none of the available pharmacological inhibitors of G9a activity have shown success at the early stages of clinical testing. Here, we discuss central findings of oncogenic expression and activation of G9a in CSCs from different origins, as well as the impact of the suppression of G9a histone methyltransferase activity in such contexts. We will explore the challenges posed by direct and systemic inhibition of G9a activity in the perspective of clinical translation of documented small molecules. Finally, we will discuss recent advances in drug discovery as viable strategies to develop context-specific drugs, selectively targeting G9a in CSC populations.
Unexpected myriad of co-occurring viral strains and species in one of the most abundant and microdiverse viruses on Earth
Authors: Martinez-Hernandez Francisco , Diop Awa , Garcia-Heredia Inmaculada , Bobay Louis-Marie , Martinez-Garcia Manuel
Published: November 2021

Viral genetic microdiversity drives adaptation, pathogenicity, and speciation and has critical consequences for the viral-host arms race occurring at the strain and species levels, which ultimately impact microbial community structure and biogeochemical cycles. Despite the fact that most efforts have focused on viral macrodiversity, little is known about the microdiversity of ecologically important viruses on Earth. Recently, single-virus genomics discovered the putatively most abundant ocean virus in temperate and tropical waters: the uncultured dsDNA virus vSAG 37-F6 infecting Pelagibacter, the most abundant marine bacteria. In this study, we report the cooccurrence of up to ≈1,500 different viral strains (>95% nucleotide identity) and ≈30 related species (80-95% nucleotide identity) in a single oceanic sample. Viral microdiversity was maintained over space and time, and most alleles were the result of synonymous mutations without any apparent adaptive benefits to cope with host translation codon bias and efficiency. Gene flow analysis used to delimitate species according to the biological species concept (BSC) revealed the impact of recombination in shaping vSAG 37-F6 virus and Pelagibacter speciation. Data demonstrated that this large viral microdiversity somehow mirrors the host species diversity since ≈50% of the 926 analyzed Pelagibacter genomes were found to belong to independent BSC species that do not significantly engage in gene flow with one another. The host range of this evolutionarily successful virus revealed that a single viral species can infect multiple Pelagibacter BSC species, indicating that this virus crosses not only formal BSC barriers but also biomes since viral ancestors are found in freshwater.
Feasibility and efficacy of salvage allogeneic stem cell transplantation in AML patients relapsing after autologous stem cell transplantation
Authors: Shumilov Evgenii , Shakhanova Inna , Flach Johanna , Schmidt Nicole , Buerki Susanne , Legros Myriam , Kronig Marie-Noëlle , Ofran Yishai , Gerull Sabine , Medinger Michael , Taleghani Behrouz Mansouri , Passweg Jakob , Halter Jörg , Bacher Ulrike , Pabst Thomas
Published: November 2021

Autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is suitable for consolidation of favorable-/intermediate-risk AML patients in CR1. However, ~50% of AML patients relapse after autologous HCT, and efficacy of subsequent salvage strategies including allogeneic HCT remains unclear. We studied 123 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed AML undergoing high-dose chemotherapy (HDCT)/autologous HCT in CR1. In relapsing patients afterwards, we analyzed salvage treatments and outcomes focusing particularly on salvage allogeneic HCT. Of 123 patients, 64 (52%) relapsed after autologous HCT. Subsequently, 13 (21%) received palliative therapy, whereas 51 (79%) proceeded to salvage therapy with a curative intent. Of the 47 patients with a curative intent and who did not proceed directly to allogeneic HCT, 23 (49%) achieved CR2 or had ongoing hematologic CR1 despite molecular relapse. Finally, 30 patients (47%) received allogeneic HCT with estimated 3-year leukemia-free and overall survival rates of 33% and 43%. Hematologic remission at allogeneic HCT and lack of acute GvHD had a positive impact on OS and LFS (p < 0.05). Our study suggests that almost 80% of AML patients can undergo salvage therapy following relapse after front-line HDCT/autologous HCT. Allogeneic HCT can provide cure in one third of patients relapsing after front-line HDCT/autologous HCT.
PRMT1-mediated EZH2 methylation promotes breast cancer cell proliferation and tumorigenesis
Authors: Li Zhongwei , Wang Diandian , Chen Xintian , Wang Wenwen , Wang Pengfei , Hou Pingfu , Li Minle , Chu Sufang , Qiao Shuxi , Zheng Junnian , Bai Jin
Published: November 2021

Protein arginine methyltransferase 1 (PRMT1) is able to promote breast cancer cell proliferation. However, the detailed mechanisms of PRMT1-mediated breast cancer cell proliferation are largely unknown. In this study, we reveal that PRMT1-mediated methylation of EZH2 at the R342 site (meR342-EZH2) has a great effect on PRMT1-induced cell proliferation. We also demonstrate that meR342-EZH2 can accelerate breast cancer cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. Further, we show that meR342-EZH2 promotes cell cycle progression by repressing P16 and P21 transcription expression. In terms of mechanism, we illustrate that meR342-EZH2 facilitates EZH2 binding with SUZ12 and PRC2 assembly by preventing AMPKα1-mediated phosphorylation of pT311-EZH2, which results in suppression of P16 and P21 transcription by enhancing EZH2 expression and H3K27me3 enrichment at P16 and P21 promoters. Finally, we validate that the expression of PRMT1 and meR342-EZH2 is negatively correlated with pT311-EZH2 expression. Our findings suggest that meR342-EZH2 may become a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of breast cancer.
The C-terminal HSP90 inhibitor NCT-58 kills trastuzumab-resistant breast cancer stem-like cells
Authors: Park Soeun , Kim Yoon-Jae , Park Jung Min , Park Minsu , Nam Kee Dal , Farrand Lee , Nguyen Cong-Truong , La Minh Thanh , Ann Jihyae , Lee Jeewoo , Kim Ji Young , Seo Jae Hong
Published: November 2021

N-terminal HSP90 inhibitors in development have had issues arising from heat shock response (HSR) induction and off-target effects. We sought to investigate the capacity of NCT-58, a rationally-synthesized C-terminal HSP90 inhibitor, to kill trastuzumab-resistant HER2-positive breast cancer stem-like cells. NCT-58 does not induce the HSR due to its targeting of the C-terminal region and elicits anti-tumor activity via the simultaneous downregulation of HER family members as well as inhibition of Akt phosphorylation. NCT-58 kills the rapidly proliferating bulk tumor cells as well as the breast cancer stem-like population, coinciding with significant reductions in stem/progenitor markers and pluripotent transcription factors. NCT-58 treatment suppressed growth and angiogenesis in a trastuzumab-resistant xenograft model, concomitant with downregulation of ICD-HER2 and HSF-1/HSP70/HSP90. These findings warrant further investigation of NCT-58 to address trastuzumab resistance in heterogeneous HER2-positive cancers.
TRAF7 contributes to tumor progression by promoting ubiquitin-proteasome mediated degradation of P53 in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zhang Xinqi , Dong Weiguo
Published: November 2021

It has been proved that TRAFs family proteins played malfunctioning roles in the development of human cancers. TRAF7 is the last one of TRAFs family proteins to be found, which was demonstrated to be involved in a serious of cancers development. In this study, we systematically investigated the molecular mechanisms of TRAF7 in facilitating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). We discovered that TRAF7 was overexpressed in tumor tissues and the increased TRAF7 expression was closely associated with tumor size, histologic grade, TNM stage and poor prognostication. TRAF7 overexpression repressed cell apoptosis and promoted cell proliferation, invasion and migration, whereas knockdown of TRAF7 in HCC cells had totally opposite effects. Besides, we identified the interaction between TRAF7 and P53 in HCC and demonstrated that TRAF7 promoted ubiquitin-proteasome mediated degradation of P53 at K48 site. The rescue assays further proved that the function of TRAF7 in inhibiting apoptosis and promoting tumor development was depended on P53 in HCC. Overall, this work identified that TARF7 promoted tumorigenesis by targeted degradation P53 for ubiquitin-mediated proteasome pathway. Targeting the TRAF7-P53 axis may provide new insights in the pathogenesis of HCC, and pave the way for developing novel strategies for HCC prevention and treatment.
Sulfate adenylyl transferase kinetics and mechanisms of metabolic inhibitors of microbial sulfate respiration
Authors: Carlson Hans K , Youngblut Matthew D , Redford Steven A , Williamson Adam J , Coates John D
Published: November 2021

Sulfate analog oxyanions that function as selective metabolic inhibitors of dissimilatory sulfate reducing microorganisms (SRM) are widely used in ecological studies and industrial applications. As such, it is important to understand the mode of action and mechanisms of tolerance or adaptation to these compounds. Different oxyanions vary widely in their inhibitory potency and mechanism of inhibition, but current evidence suggests that the sulfate adenylyl transferase/ATP sulfurylase (Sat) enzyme is an important target. We heterologously expressed and purified the Sat from the model SRM, Desulfovibrio alaskensis G20. With this enzyme we determined the turnover kinetics (kcat, KM) for alternative substrates (molybdate, selenate, arsenate, monofluorophosphate, and chromate) and inhibition constants (KI) for competitive inhibitors (perchlorate, chlorate, and nitrate). These measurements enable the first quantitative comparisons of these compounds as substrates or inhibitors of a purified Sat from a respiratory sulfate reducer. We compare predicted half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) based on Sat kinetics with measured IC50 values against D. alaskensis G20 growth and discuss our results in light of known mechanisms of sensitivity or resistance to oxyanions. This analysis helps with the interpretation of recent adaptive laboratory evolution studies and illustrates the value of interpreting gene–microbe–environment interactions through the lens of enzyme kinetics.
Palladium cubes with Pt shell deposition for localized surface plasmon resonance enhanced photodynamic and photothermal therapy of hypoxic tumors
Authors: Gu Wenxiang , Hua Zhiyuan , Li Zheng , Cai Zhiheng , Wang Wandong , Guo Kaijin , Yuan Feng , Gao Fenglei , Chen Hongliang
Published: November 2021

Multifunctional phototherapy nanoagents for imaging-guided synergistic photothermal therapy (PTT) and photodynamic therapy (PDT) are highly desirable in the field of solid tumor therapy.
Potential energy surface for high-energy N + N2 collisions
Authors: Varga Zoltan , Truhlar Donald G.
Published: November 2021

Multireference electronic structure calculations are used to produce a potential energy surface for high-energy collisions of N2 with N.
Tuning partially charged Ptδ+of atomically dispersed Pt catalysts toward superior propane dehydrogenation performance
Authors: Zhang Wei , Ma Hongfei , Wang Haizhi , Jiang Jiawei , Sui Zhijun , Zhu Yi-An , Chen De , Zhou Xinggui
Published: November 2021

An experimentally obtained volcano-type curve is observed for propane dehydrogenation over a group of atomically dispersed Pt catalysts on various supports. The oxidation state of Ptδ+active sites plays a determining role in enhancing the activity.
One-pot synthesis of 3-substituted-3-hydroxyindolin-2-ones: three component coupling of N-protected isatin, aryne precursor and 1,3-cyclodione under metal-free conditions
Authors: Hazarika Hemanta , Chutia Kangkana , Das Babulal , Gogoi Pranjal
Published: November 2021

A transition-metal free synthetic strategy for the direct synthesis of 3-substituted-3-hydroxy-indolin-2-ones via three component coupling of N-protected isatin, aryne precursor, and 1,3-cyclodione.
Cd-Doped FeSe nanoparticles embedded in N-doped carbon: a potential anode material for lithium storage
Authors: Meng Xiuyan , Deng Shuolei , Feng Liang , Jiang Yang , Chen Rongna , Gou Huiyang , Hou Li
Published: November 2021

Cd doped FeSe nanoparticles loaded on nitrogen-containing carbon (Fe3C–Cdn/C–N) composites were obtained and displayed a high specific capacity, excellent rate performance and ultra-stable long-term cycling stability.
Structural characteristics of Al2O3 ultra-thin films supported on the NiAl(100) substrate from DFTB-aided global optimization
Authors: Van den Bossche Maxime , Goniakowski Jacek , Noguera Claudine
Published: November 2021

Surfaces of aluminum alloys are often coated with ultra-thin alumina films which form by self-limited selective oxidation.
Brønsted acid-induced transannulation of the phytochemical zerumbone
Authors: Kashiwazaki Gengo , Watanabe Ryo , Tsuzuki Terutaka , Yamamoto Chieko , Nishikawa Atsuya , Ohtomo Satoru , Yoshikawa Tomomi , Kitamura Yuto , Utaka Yoshimi , Kawai Yasushi , Tsuchida Noriko , Kitayama Takashi
Published: November 2021

The reaction mechanism of zerumbone under HCl was verified by the reactions from each isolated intermediate.
Unsaturated iron ion-based coordination polymer for highly efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution with simultaneous real wastewater degradation: mechanistic insight into multifunctional Fe–N sites
Authors: Wang Qiuchen , Ma Jun , Li Gen , Zhao Tianxiang , Chen Peng , Liu Fei , Yin Shuang-Feng
Published: November 2021

Iron ion-based coordination polymer achieves outstanding photocatalytic hydrogen evolution with simultaneous real wastewater degradation via its unsaturated Fe–N bridges, which boost charge carrier transfer and serve as catalytic active centers.