bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surface Modification of Space Exposed Materials Induced by Low Energetic Proton Irradiation
Authors: Keil Denise , Seiz Frederic , Bartels Nils , Riede Wolfgang , Sznajder Maciej , Renger Thomas , Spröwitz Tom
Published: August 2021

The aim of this paper is to verify if commonly occurring space debris materials change their reflectivity and morphology after being exposed to low energy protons. Therefore, a set of six different materials frequently used in spacecraft engineering was irradiated with low energy (100 keV) protons to simulate the aging of their surfaces due to space radiation in low Earth orbit (LEO). A microscopic and spectroscopic analysis of the irradiated samples reveals that the tested materials containing organic polymers (Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP)) show changes in surface morphology. Metallic surfaces did not show surface modifications but we found changes in the reflectivity of coated polyimide sheets, like used in Multi Layer Insulation blankets, during and after proton irradiation. Our results show that space materials exhibit significant changes after irradiation equivalent to the dose accumulated after 100 years in LEO. This knowledge is highly relevant for the interpretation of optical data related to the observation of space debris as well as to studies about laser-matter interaction for laser-based debris removal.
Gene expression profile in functioning and non-functioning nodules of autonomous multinodular goiter from an area of iodine deficiency: unexpected common characteristics between the two entities
Authors: Agretti P. , De Marco G. , Ferrarini E. , Di Cosmo C. , Montanelli L. , Bagattini B. , Chiovato L. , Tonacchera M.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Toxic multinodular goiter is a heterogeneous disease associated with hyperthyroidism frequently detected in areas with deficient iodine intake, and functioning and non-functioning nodules, characterized by increased proliferation but opposite functional activity, may coexist in the same gland. To understand the distinct molecular pathology of each entity present in the same gland, the gene expression profile was evaluated by using the Affymetrix technology.

Methods

Total RNA was extracted from nodular and healthy tissues of two patients and double-strand cDNA was synthesized. Biotinylated cRNA was obtained and, after chemical fragmentation, was hybridized on U133A and B arrays. Each array was stained and the acquired images were analyzed to obtain the expression levels of the transcripts. Both functioning and non-functioning nodules were compared versus healthy tissue of the corresponding patient.

Results

About 16% of genes were modulated in functioning nodules, while in non-functioning nodules only 9% of genes were modulated with respect to the healthy tissue. In functioning nodules of both patients and up-regulation of cyclin D1 and cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1 was observed, suggesting the presence of a possible feedback control of proliferation. Complement components C1s, C7 and C3 were down-regulated in both types of nodules, suggesting a silencing of the innate immune response. Cellular fibronectin precursor was up-regulated in both functioning nodules suggesting a possible increase of endothelial cells. Finally, Frizzled-1 was down-regulated only in functioning nodules, suggesting a role of Wnt signaling pathway in the proliferation and differentiation of these tumors. None of the thyroid-specific gene was deregulated in microarray analysis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the main finding from our data is a similar modulation for both kinds of nodules in genes possibly implicated in thyroid growth.
Evaluating the Application of Heating Conductor Surfaces Inside Plasma Sprayed Coatings in Permanent Mold Metal Casting Processes for Local, Near-Surface Heat Release
Authors: Vossel T. , Gor S. , Pustal B. , Bührig-Polaczek A.
Published: August 2021

With casting being a complex process which involves several physical effects and interactions, a wide array of means for influencing such processes exist. Here, the liquid–solid phase change is of utmost importance, as it is a deciding factor for a part’s final properties. Especially with today’s high critical material property requirements, control of the solidification process is indispensable. For the most part, the cooling of a casting defines its solidification. What determines the cooling process is the heat balance of the system. The foundry industry has been using different approaches for influencing the heat balance for a long time. The application of different kinds of coatings with either insulating or heat transfer promoting properties as well as temperature control via cooling channels inside the mold is widely used. Progress in the field of plasma spraying of coatings and the application of heating conductor surfaces have rendered a new concept possible: The integration of heating conductors inside a coating allows for the release of heat in closest vicinity of the melt–mold interface. This paper depicts the use of numerical simulations to investigate the local application of heating conductor layers inside the mold surface coating for a permanent mold casting process and discusses concepts for influencing the heat balance that would not be possible with state-of-the-art cooling channel approaches.
‘Dinosaur-bird’ macroevolution, locomotor modules and the origins of flight
Authors: Nebreda Sergio M. , Hernández Fernández Manuel , Marugán-Lobón Jesús
Published: August 2021

The dinosaurian origin of birds is one of the best documented events that palaeontology has contributed to the understanding of deep time evolution. This transition has been studied on multiple fossils using numerous multidisciplinary resources, including systematics, taxonomic, anatomical, morphological, biomechanical and molecular approaches. However, whereas deep time origins and phylogenetic relationships are robust, important nuances of this transition’s dynamics remain controversial. In particular, the fossil record of several maniraptoran groups clearly shows that aerial locomotion was developed before an ‘avialization’ (i.e., before the first divergence towards avialans), thus earlier than presumed. Although aspects as important as miniaturization and the acquisition of several anatomical and morphological modifications are key factors determining such evolutionary transition, understanding this macroevolutionary trend also involves to seize the evolution of developmental systems, which requires assessing the morphological expression of integration and modularity of the locomotor apparatus throughout time. This is so because, as it happened in other flying vertebrate taxa such as pterosaurs and bats, the transformation of the maniraptoran forelimbs into flying locomotor modules must not only have involved a gradual anatomical transformation, but also a complete developmental re-patterning of the integration scheme between them and the hindlimbs. Here, we review the most relevant aspects of limb morphological transformation during the so-called ‘dinosaur-bird’ transition to stress the importance of assessing the role of modularity and morphological integration in such macroevolutionary transition, which ultimately involves the origins of flight in dinosaurs.
Digital 3D models of theropods for approaching body-mass distribution and volume
Authors: Reolid Matías , Cardenal Francisco J. , Reolid Jesús
Published: August 2021

The aim of this work is to obtain diverse morphometric data from digitized 3D models of scientifically accurate palaeoreconstructions of theropods from eight representative families. The analysed polyvinyl chloride (PVC) models belong to the genera Coelophysis, Dilophosaurus, Ceratosaurus, Allosaurus, Baryonyx, Carnotaurus, Giganotosaurus, and Tyrannosaurus. The scanned 3D models were scaled considering different body-size estimations of the literature. The 3D analysis of these genera provides information on the skull length and body length that allows for recognition of major evolutionary trends. The skull length/body length in the studied genera increases according with the size of the body from the smallest Coelophysis with a ratio of 0.093 to ratios of 0.119–0.120 for Tyrannosaurus and Giganotosaurus, the largest study theropods. The study of photogrammetric 3D models also provides morphometric information that cannot be obtained from the study of bones alone, but knowing that all reconstructions begin from the fossil bones, such as the surface/volume ratio (S/V). For the studied theropod genera surface/volume ratio ranges from 35.21 for Coelophysis to 5.55 for Tyrannosaurus. This parameter, closely related to the heat dissipation, help in the characterization of the metabolism of extinct taxa. Accordingly, slender primitive forms of the Early Jurassic (i.e. Coelophysis and Dilophosaurus) had relatively smaller skulls and higher mass-specific metabolic rates than the robust large theropods of the Cretaceous (i.e. Giganotosaurus and Tyrannosaurus). This work presents a technique that, when applied to proper dinosaur models, provides extent and accurate data that may help in diverse study areas within the dinosaur palaeontology and palaeobiology.
Paramedics assessing patients with complex comorbidities in community settings: results from the CARPE study
Authors: Leyenaar Matthew S. , McLeod Brent , Jones Aaron , Brousseau Audrey-Anne , Mercier Eric , Strum Ryan P. , Nolan Michael , Sinha Samir K. , Agarwal Gina , Tavares Walter , Costa Andrew P.
Published: August 2021

Objectives

The aim for this study was to provide information about how community paramedicine home visit programs best “navigate” their role delivering preventative care to frequent 9-1-1 users by describing demographic and clinical characteristics of their patients and comparing them to existing community care populations.

Methods

Our study used secondary data from standardized assessment instruments used in the delivery of home care, community support services, and community paramedicine home visit programs in Ontario. Identical assessment items from each instrument enabled comparisons of demographic, clinical, and social characteristics of community-dwelling older adults using descriptive statistics and z-tests.

Results

Data were analyzed for 29,938 home care clients, 13,782 community support services clients, and 136 community paramedicine patients. Differences were observed in proportions of individuals living alone between community paramedicine patients versus home care clients and community support clients (47.8%, 33.8%, and 59.9% respectively). We found higher proportions of community paramedicine patients with multiple chronic disease (87%, compared to 63% and 42%) and mental health-related conditions (43.4%, compared to 26.2% and 18.8% for depression, as an example).

Conclusion

When using existing community care populations as a reference group, it appears that patients seen in community paramedicine home visit programs are a distinct sub-group of the community-dwelling older adult population with more complex comorbidities, possibly exacerbated by mental illness and social isolation from living alone. Community paramedicine programs may serve as a sentinel support opportunity for patients whose health conditions are not being addressed through timely access to other existing care providers.

Protocol registration

ISRCTN 58273216.
Immigration Nation
Authors: Gazzotti Lorena
Published: August 2021

Over the past forty years, countries in the Global North have increasingly restricted their migration policies to reduce the arrival of migrants. As part of this, development aid has become a central tool in the migration control strategy pursued by European countries and the US, with donors, International Organisations and NGOs becoming prominent actors. In this book, Lorena Gazzotti shows that migration control is not only exercised through fences and deportation. Building on extensive research in Morocco, Gazzotti shows that aid marks the rise of a substantially different mode of migration containment, one where power works beyond fast violence, and its disciplinary potential is augmented precisely by its elusiveness. Where existing studies on border externalisation have essentialised donors, International Organisations and NGOs, with countries of 'origin' and 'transit' as compliant subcontractors, and border control as a neat form of intervention, this nuanced study unsettles such assumptions, to show that bordering happens in everyday, mundane fashions, far away from the spectacle of border violence. This title is also available as open access on Cambridge Core.
A quantitative method for deriving salinity of subglacial water using ground-based transient electromagnetics
Authors: Killingbeck Siobhan F. , Dow Christine F. , Unsworth Martyn J.
Published: August 2021

Liquid water can exist at temperatures well below freezing beneath glaciers and ice sheets, where subglacial water systems, fresh and saline, have been shown to host unique microbial ecosystems. Geophysical techniques sensitive to fluid-content contrasts, e.g. electromagnetics, can characterize subglacial water and its salinity. Here, we assess the ground-based transient electromagnetic (TEM) method for deriving the resistivity and salinity of subglacial water. We adapt an existing open-source Bayesian inversion algorithm, which uses independent depth constraints, to output posterior distributions of resistivity and pore fluid salinity with depth. A variety of synthetic models, including a thin (5 m), conductive (0.16 Ωm), hypersaline (147 psu) subglacial lake, are used to evaluate the TEM method for imaging under 800 m-thick ice. The study demonstrates that TEM methods can resolve conductive, saline bodies accurately using external depth constraints, for example, from radar or seismic data. The depth resolution of TEM can be limited beneath deep (>800 m), thick (>50 m) conductive, water bodies and additional constraints from passive electromagnetic (EM) methods could be used to reduce ambiguities in the TEM results. Subsequently, non-invasive active and passive EM methods could provide profound insights into remote aqueous systems under glaciers and ice sheets.
Permian–Triassic phylogenetic and morphologic evolution of rhynchonellide brachiopods
Authors: Guo Zhen , Chen Zhong-Qiang , Harper David A. T. , Huang Yuangeng
Published: August 2021

The Rhynchonellida is a major group of brachiopods that survived the “big five” mass extinctions and flourished after the Permian/Triassic (P/Tr) crisis. However, phylogenetic and character evolution in the Rhynchonellida across the P/Tr transition is poorly understood. In view of the widespread homoplasy across this order, we employ a tip-dated Bayesian analysis to reconstruct phylogenetic relationships for late Permian–Triassic rhynchonellides. The same data were also analyzed using three other methods: undated Bayesian, equal-weighting, and implied-weighting parsimony. Compared with trees generated by other methods, those constructed by tip-dating best account for the homoplasy in this group and are closer to previous assumptions on the evolution of this order. Based on the analyses of multiple trees, the major increase in lineage richness occurred in the Early and early Middle Triassic. Also, richness in the Anisian almost reached the highest level seen in the Triassic. According to fossil records, a pronounced reduction in shell size and in the development of ornamentation occurred after the P/Tr extinction, which is largely due to the loss of large and highly sculptured genera and the diversification of small-sized and weakly ornamented genera. Ancestral-state estimation of shell size and development of ornamentation, coupled with comparisons of other characters, indicate that the Early–Middle Triassic mature “small-sized taxa” may have characters displayed by juveniles of their ancestors. This suggests that for these genera, paedomorphosis was possibly a strategy to survive and diversify in the harsh environment after the P/Tr extinction.
Small-scale shrimp farming and community supported fisheries in Southeast Asia
Authors: Szuster Brian , Bernstein Jennifer M. , Kuldilok Kulapa , Cecil William
Published: August 2021

Shrimp farming in Southeast Asia is often touted as a globalisation success story. The region emerged as a key area for farmed shrimp production in the 1990s, and it remains a leading producer of shrimp for export to international markets to this day. This achievement has not, however, been without cost. Small-scale shrimp farmers in Southeast Asia have suffered persistent social, economic and environmental dislocations stemming from price pressures imposed by globalisation and neoliberal economic policies in the seafood sector. Community supported fisheries (CSF) represent an alternative marketing model which could potentially support small-scale producers in Southeast Asia whose viability is threatened by the intensification of shrimp production by large corporate interests. This article investigates opportunities for CSF in the region, encourages research that builds social capital in aquaculture communities, and identifies opportunities to link small-scale shrimp farming operations with local markets that seek high quality seafood produced in an environmentally sustainable and socially responsible manner.
Online behavioural activation during the COVID-19 pandemic decreases depression and negative affective bias
Authors: Ruzickova Tereza , Carson James , Argabright Stirling , Gillespie Amy , Guinea Calum , Pearse Anna , Barwick Robbie , Murphy Susannah E. , Harmer Catherine J.
Published: August 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for mental health interventions that can be easily disseminated during a crisis. Behavioural activation (BA) is a cost-effective treatment that can be administered by non-specialists; however, it is unclear whether it is still effective during a time of lockdown and social distancing, when opportunities for positive activity are significantly constrained.

Methods

Between May and October 2020, we randomised 68 UK participants with mild to moderate low mood to either a 4-week online programme of non-specialist administered BA or to a passive control group. Before and after the intervention, we collected self-report data on mood and COVID-related disruption, as well as measuring emotional cognition as an objective marker of risk for depression.

Results

In comparison to the control group, the BA group showed a significant decrease in depression, anxiety and anhedonia after the intervention, as well as an increase in self-reported activation and social support. Benefits persisted at 1-month follow-up. BA also decreased negative affective bias on several measures of the Facial Emotion Recognition Task and early change in bias was associated with later therapeutic gain. Participants rated the intervention as highly acceptable.

Conclusion

This study highlights the benefits of online BA that can be administered by non-specialists after brief training. These findings can help inform the policy response towards the rising incidence of mental health problems during a crisis situation such as a pandemic. They also highlight the use of objective cognitive markers of risk across different treatment modalities.
SARS-CoV-2 immunogenicity in individuals infected before and after COVID-19 vaccination: Israel, January–March 2021
Authors: Abu Jabal Kamal , Ben-Amram Hila , Beiruti Karine , Brimat Ira , Abu Saada Ashraf , Bathish Younes , Sussan Christian , Zarka Salman , Edelstein Michael
Published: August 2021

Between December 2020 and March 2021, we measured anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG titres among 725 Israeli hospital workers vaccinated against COVID-19. Infection post-dose 1 vaccination did not increase IgG titres, and individuals infected post-dose 1 had IgG levels comparable to never-infected individuals who received a single dose, lower than fully vaccinated, never-infected individuals. This suggests dose 2, currently not offered to those infected post-dose 1, may be required in these individuals. Larger studies should confirm whether individuals infected post-dose 1 need the second.
“When the first session may be the last!”: A case report of the implementation of “rapid tele-psychotherapy” with single-session music therapy in the COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Situmorang Dominikus David Biondi
Published: August 2021

Objective

Conventional psychotherapy with a lengthy and regular number of meetings is no longer relevant in the case of COVID-19, when persons with psychiatric problems, especially COVID-19 patients/clients, really require immediate psychological assistance. It is recognized as a “rapid test” in the field of body health to rapidly decide whether or not a person is affected by COVID-19. So, we should now be able to use the term “rapid tele-psychotherapy” with Single-Session Music Therapy (SSMT) in the field of mental health to characterize the mechanism of assistance provided to persons who seek therapeutic assistance virtually during this COVID-19 outbreak, so that they will easily and reliably be freed from troubling psychiatric issues.

Method

The author reports the case of a 33-year-old widow with asymptomatic COVID-19 who was admitted to her own home.

Results

The author describes the effectiveness of the implementation of rapid tele-psychotherapy with SSMT in reducing the scale of anxiety, panic, fear, depression, acute stress, insomnia, and delusions of death.

Significance of results

This case can provide new inputs or ideas for counselors/psychologists/psychiatrists/therapists who work in hospitals/institutions to provide rapid tele-psychotherapy with SSMT as therapeutic assistance for individuals who need psychotherapy in this COVID-19 outbreak, especially for COVID-19 patients/clients. Besides that, this concept is not only suitable for rapidly screening individuals that may face psychological problems and helping them better seek therapeutic assistance, but can also be used as an adjuvant therapy for psychiatric patients.
Assessing Complex Problem-Solving Skills in Under 20 Minutes
Authors: Krieger Florian , Stadler Matthias , Bühner Markus , Fischer Frank , Greiff Samuel
Published: August 2021

Abstract. Rationale: Assessing complex problem-solving skills (CPS) is of great interest to many researchers. However, existing assessments require long testing times making them difficult to include in many studies and experiments. Here, we propose a specific composition of microworlds based on the MicroDYN approach, which allows for valid estimation of CPS in a substantially reduced amount of time (<20 min). Methods: Based on the reanalysis of a sample of N = 232 university students who worked on 11 microworlds of increasing difficulty, we conducted multiple confirmatory factor analyses to test all possible combinations of microworlds, which were theoretically justified in advance. Results/Discussion: We demonstrate one best fitting set with five microworlds, which shows excellent factorial validity and relates to both conventional measures of intelligence and to school grades. We hope that this will allow other researchers to include CPS into their study designs even when testing time is limited.
The Fine‐Scale Magnetic History of the Allende Meteorite: Implications for the Structure of the Solar Nebula
Authors: Fu Roger R. , Volk Michael W. R. , Bilardello Dario , Libourel Guy , Lesur Geoffroy R. J. , Ben Dor Oren
Published: August 2021

Magnetic fields in the early solar system may have driven the inward accretion of the protoplanetary disk (PPD) and generated instabilities that led to the formation of planets and ring and gap structures. The Allende carbonaceous chondrite meteorite records a strong early solar system magnetic field that has been interpreted to have a PPD, dynamo, or impact‐generated origin. Using high‐resolution magnetic field imaging to isolate the magnetization of individual grain assemblages, we find that only Fe‐sulfides carry a coherent magnetization. Combined with rock magnetic analyses, we conclude that Allende carries a magnetization acquired during parent body chemical alteration at ~3.0–4.2 My after calcium aluminum‐rich inclusions in an >40 µT magnetic field. This early age strongly favors a magnetic field of nebular origin instead of dynamo or solar wind alternatives. When compared to other paleomagnetic data from meteorites, this strong intensity supports a central role for magnetic instabilities in disk accretion and the presence of temporal variations or spatial heterogeneities in the disk, such as ring and gap structures.
Nearshore Hurricane Intensity Change and Post‐Landfall Dissipation Along The United States Gulf and East Coasts
Authors: Zhu Yi‐Jie , Collins Jennifer M. , Klotzbach Philip J.
Published: August 2021

Intensification and dissipation of a hurricane before and after landfall, respectively, are crucial for coastal and inland risk potential. This study examines the relationship between intensity change prior to landfall and post‐landfall dissipation. The relative difference of 24 h accumulated cyclone energy generated before and after landfall is defined as the landfall dissipation rate (LFDR). This study focuses on the continental United States and shows that the 24 h hurricane LFDR is significantly negatively related to the 24 h intensity change before landfall. This implies hurricanes undergoing rapid intensification before landfall weaken at a slower rate after landfall. The decay rate is also positively correlated with landfall intensity but is less certain for Category 4–5 hurricanes (>112 kt). The relationship between near‐shore wind change and post‐landfall decay is not equally distributed along the U.S. coast, with pre‐landfall intensification more common along the Gulf Coast and a LFDR that varies.
Superposed Epoch Analysis of Nighttime Magnetic Perturbation Events Observed in Arctic Canada
Authors: Engebretson Mark J. , Ahmed Lidiya Y. , Pilipenko Viacheslav A. , Steinmetz Erik S. , Moldwin Mark B. , Connors Martin G. , Boteler David H. , Weygand James M. , Coyle Shane , Ohtani Shin , Gjerloev Jesper , Russell Christopher T.
Published: August 2021

Rapid changes of magnetic fields associated with nighttime magnetic perturbation events (MPEs) with amplitudes |ΔB| of hundreds of nT and 5–10 min duration can induce geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) that can harm technological systems. Here we present superposed epoch analyses of large nighttime MPEs (|dB/dt| ≥ 6 nT/s) observed during 2015 and 2017 at five stations in Arctic Canada ranging from 64.7° to 75.2° in corrected geomagnetic latitude (MLAT) as functions of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF), solar wind dynamic pressure, density, and velocity, and the SML, SMU, and SYM/H geomagnetic activity indices. Analyses were produced for premidnight and postmidnight events and for three ranges of time after the most recent substorm onset: (a) 0–30 min, (b) 30–60 min, and (c) >60 min. Of the solar wind and IMF parameters studied, only the IMF Bz component showed any consistent temporal variations prior to MPEs: a 1–2 h wide 1–3 nT negative minimum at all stations beginning ∼30–80 min before premidnight MPEs, and minima that were less consistent but often deeper before postmidnight MPEs. Median, 25th, and 75th percentile SuperMAG auroral indices SML (SMU) showed drops (rises) before pre‐ and post‐midnight type A MPEs, but most of the MPEs in categories B and C did not coincide with large‐scale peaks in ionospheric electrojets. Median SYM/H indices were flat near −30 nT for premidnight events and showed no consistent temporal association with any MPE events. More disturbed values of IMF Bz, Psw, Nsw, SML, SMU, and SYM/H appeared postmidnight than premidnight.
UV-LED projection photolithography for high-resolution functional photonic components
Authors: Zheng Lei , Zywietz Urs , Birr Tobias , Duderstadt Martin , Overmeyer Ludger , Roth Bernhard , Reinhardt Carsten
Published: August 2021

The advancement of micro- and nanostructuring techniques in optics is driven by the demand for continuous miniaturization and the high geometrical accuracy of photonic devices and integrated systems. Here, UV-LED projection photolithography is demonstrated as a simple and low-cost approach for rapid generation of two-dimensional optical micro- and nanostructures with high resolution and accuracy using standard optics only. The developed system enables the projection of structure patterns onto a substrate with 1000-fold demagnification. Photonic devices, e.g., waveguides and microring resonators, on rigid or flexible substrates with varied geometrical complexity and overall structure dimensions from the nanometer to centimeter scale were successfully prepared. In particular, high-resolution gratings with feature sizes down to 150 nm and periods as small as 400 nm were realized for the first time by this approach. Waveguides made of doped laser active materials were fabricated, and their spontaneous emission was detected. The demonstrated superior performance of the developed approach may find wide applications in photonics, plasmonics, and optical materials science, among others.
Monolithic integration of nanorod arrays on microfluidic chips for fast and sensitive one-step immunoassays
Authors: Wang Ye , Zhao Jiongdong , Zhu Yu , Dong Shurong , Liu Yang , Sun Yijun , Qian Liling , Yang Wenting , Cao Zhen
Published: August 2021

Here, we present integrated nanorod arrays on microfluidic chips for fast and sensitive flow-through immunoassays of physiologically relevant macromolecules. Dense arrays of Au nanorods are easily fabricated through one-step oblique angle deposition, which eliminates the requirement of advanced lithography methods. We report the utility of this plasmonic structure to improve the detection limit of the cardiac troponin I (cTnI) assay by over 6 × 105-fold, reaching down to 33.9 fg mL−1 (~1.4 fM), compared with an identical assay on glass substrates. Through monolithic integration with microfluidic elements, the device enables a flow-through assay for quantitative detection of cTnI in the serum with a detection sensitivity of 6.9 pg mL−1 (~0.3 pM) in <6 min, which was 4000 times lower than conventional glass devices. This ultrasensitive detection arises from the large surface area for antibody conjugation and metal-enhanced fluorescent signals through plasmonic nanostructures. Moreover, due to the parallel arrangement of flow paths, simultaneous detection of multiple cancer biomarkers, including prostate-specific antigen and carcinoembryonic antigen, has been fulfilled with increased signal-to-background ratios. Given the high performance of this assay, together with its simple fabrication process that is compatible with standard mass manufacturing techniques, we expect that the prepared integrated nanorod device can bring on-site point-of-care diagnosis closer to reality.
SARS-CoV-2 disease severity and transmission efficiency is increased for airborne compared to fomite exposure in Syrian hamsters
Authors: Port Julia R. , Yinda Claude Kwe , Owusu Irene Offei , Holbrook Myndi , Fischer Robert , Bushmaker Trenton , Avanzato Victoria A. , Schulz Jonathan E. , Martens Craig , van Doremalen Neeltje , Clancy Chad S. , Munster Vincent J.
Published: August 2021

Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is driven by contact, fomite, and airborne transmission. The relative contribution of different transmission routes remains subject to debate. Here, we show Syrian hamsters are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection through intranasal, aerosol and fomite exposure. Different routes of exposure present with distinct disease manifestations. Intranasal and aerosol inoculation causes severe respiratory pathology, higher virus loads and increased weight loss. In contrast, fomite exposure leads to milder disease manifestation characterized by an anti-inflammatory immune state and delayed shedding pattern. Whereas the overall magnitude of respiratory virus shedding is not linked to disease severity, the onset of shedding is. Early shedding is linked to an increase in disease severity. Airborne transmission is more efficient than fomite transmission and dependent on the direction of the airflow. Carefully characterized SARS-CoV-2 transmission models will be crucial to assess potential changes in transmission and pathogenic potential in the light of the ongoing SARS-CoV-2 evolution.
Hamiltonian simulation algorithms for near-term quantum hardware
Authors: Clinton Laura , Bausch Johannes , Cubitt Toby
Published: August 2021

The quantum circuit model is the de-facto way of designing quantum algorithms. Yet any level of abstraction away from the underlying hardware incurs overhead. In this work, we develop quantum algorithms for Hamiltonian simulation "one level below” the circuit model, exploiting the underlying control over qubit interactions available in most quantum hardware and deriving analytic circuit identities for synthesising multi-qubit evolutions from two-qubit interactions. We then analyse the impact of these techniques under the standard error model where errors occur per gate, and an error model with a constant error rate per unit time. To quantify the benefits of this approach, we apply it to time-dynamics simulation of the 2D spin Fermi-Hubbard model. Combined with new error bounds for Trotter product formulas tailored to the non-asymptotic regime and an analysis of error propagation, we find that e.g. for a 5 × 5 Fermi-Hubbard lattice we reduce the circuit depth from 1, 243, 586 using the best previous fermion encoding and error bounds in the literature, to 3, 209 in the per-gate error model, or the circuit-depth-equivalent to 259 in the per-time error model. This brings Hamiltonian simulation, previously beyond reach of current hardware for non-trivial examples, significantly closer to being feasible in the NISQ era.
Complete and efficient conversion of plant cell wall hemicellulose into high-value bioproducts by engineered yeast
Authors: Sun Liang , Lee Jae Won , Yook Sangdo , Lane Stephan , Sun Ziqiao , Kim Soo Rin , Jin Yong-Su
Published: August 2021

Plant cell wall hydrolysates contain not only sugars but also substantial amounts of acetate, a fermentation inhibitor that hinders bioconversion of lignocellulose. Despite the toxic and non-consumable nature of acetate during glucose metabolism, we demonstrate that acetate can be rapidly co-consumed with xylose by engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The co-consumption leads to a metabolic re-configuration that boosts the synthesis of acetyl-CoA derived bioproducts, including triacetic acid lactone (TAL) and vitamin A, in engineered strains. Notably, by co-feeding xylose and acetate, an enginered strain produces 23.91 g/L TAL with a productivity of 0.29 g/L/h in bioreactor fermentation. This strain also completely converts a hemicellulose hydrolysate of switchgrass into 3.55 g/L TAL. These findings establish a versatile strategy that not only transforms an inhibitor into a valuable substrate but also expands the capacity of acetyl-CoA supply in S. cerevisiae for efficient bioconversion of cellulosic biomass.
The potential of chemical bonding to design crystallization and vitrification kinetics
Authors: Persch Christoph , Müller Maximilian J. , Yadav Aakash , Pries Julian , Honné Natalie , Kerres Peter , Wei Shuai , Tanaka Hajime , Fantini Paolo , Varesi Enrico , Pellizzer Fabio , Wuttig Matthias
Published: August 2021

Controlling a state of material between its crystalline and glassy phase has fostered many real-world applications. Nevertheless, design rules for crystallization and vitrification kinetics still lack predictive power. Here, we identify stoichiometry trends for these processes in phase change materials, i.e. along the GeTe-GeSe, GeTe-SnTe, and GeTe-Sb2Te3 pseudo-binary lines employing a pump-probe laser setup and calorimetry. We discover a clear stoichiometry dependence of crystallization speed along a line connecting regions characterized by two fundamental bonding types, metallic and covalent bonding. Increasing covalency slows down crystallization by six orders of magnitude and promotes vitrification. The stoichiometry dependence is correlated with material properties, such as the optical properties of the crystalline phase and a bond indicator, the number of electrons shared between adjacent atoms. A quantum-chemical map explains these trends and provides a blueprint to design crystallization kinetics.
En route to dynamic life processes by SNARE-mediated fusion of polymer and hybrid membranes
Authors: Otrin Lado , Witkowska Agata , Marušič Nika , Zhao Ziliang , Lira Rafael B. , Kyrilis Fotis L. , Hamdi Farzad , Ivanov Ivan , Lipowsky Reinhard , Kastritis Panagiotis L. , Dimova Rumiana , Sundmacher Kai , Jahn Reinhard , Vidaković-Koch Tanja
Published: August 2021

A variety of artificial cells springs from the functionalization of liposomes with proteins. However, these models suffer from low durability without repair and replenishment mechanisms, which can be partly addressed by replacing the lipids with polymers. Yet natural membranes are also dynamically remodeled in multiple cellular processes. Here, we show that synthetic amphiphile membranes also undergo fusion, mediated by the protein machinery for synaptic secretion. We integrated fusogenic SNAREs in polymer and hybrid vesicles and observed efficient membrane and content mixing. We determined bending rigidity and pore edge tension as key parameters for fusion and described its plausible progression through cryo-EM snapshots. These findings demonstrate that dynamic membrane phenomena can be reconstituted in synthetic materials, thereby providing new tools for the assembly of synthetic protocells.
Interplay of diverse adjuvants and nanoparticle presentation of native-like HIV-1 envelope trimers
Authors: Sliepen Kwinten , Schermer Edith , Bontjer Ilja , Burger Judith A. , Lévai Réka Felfödiné , Mundsperger Philipp , Brouwer Philip J. M. , Tolazzi Monica , Farsang Attila , Katinger Dietmar , Moore John P. , Scarlatti Gabriella , Shattock Robin J. , Sattentau Quentin J. , Sanders Rogier W.
Published: August 2021

The immunogenicity of HIV-1 envelope (Env) trimers is generally poor. We used the clinically relevant ConM SOSIP trimer to compare the ability of different adjuvants (squalene emulsion, ISCOMATRIX, GLA-LSQ, and MPLA liposomes) to support neutralizing antibody (NAb) responses in rabbits. The trimers were administered as free proteins or on nanoparticles. The rank order for the adjuvants was ISCOMATRIX > SE > GLA-LSQ ~ MPLA liposomes > no adjuvant. Stronger NAb responses were elicited when the ConM SOSIP trimers were presented on ferritin nanoparticles. We also found that the GLA-LSQ adjuvant induced an unexpectedly strong antibody response to the ferritin core of the nanoparticles. This “off-target” effect may have compromised its ability to induce the more desired antitrimer antibodies. In summary, both adjuvants and nanoparticle display can improve the magnitude of the antibody response to SOSIP trimers but the best combination of trimer presentation and adjuvant can only be identified experimentally.
European primary forest database v2.0
Authors: Sabatini Francesco Maria , Bluhm Hendrik , Kun Zoltan , Aksenov Dmitry , Atauri José A. , Buchwald Erik , Burrascano Sabina , Cateau Eugénie , Diku Abdulla , Duarte Inês Marques , Fernández López Ángel B. , Garbarino Matteo , Grigoriadis Nikolaos , Horváth Ferenc , Keren Srđan , Kitenberga Mara , Kiš Alen , Kraut Ann , Ibisch Pierre L. , Larrieu Laurent , Lombardi Fabio , Matovic Bratislav , Melu Radu Nicolae , Meyer Peter , Midteng Rein , Mikac Stjepan , Mikoláš Martin , Mozgeris Gintautas , Panayotov Momchil , Pisek Rok , Nunes Leónia , Ruete Alejandro , Schickhofer Matthias , Simovski Bojan , Stillhard Jonas , Stojanovic Dejan , Szwagrzyk Jerzy , Tikkanen Olli-Pekka , Toromani Elvin , Volosyanchuk Roman , Vrška Tomáš , Waldherr Marcus , Yermokhin Maxim , Zlatanov Tzvetan , Zagidullina Asiya , Kuemmerle Tobias
Published: August 2021

Primary forests, defined here as forests where the signs of human impacts, if any, are strongly blurred due to decades without forest management, are scarce in Europe and continue to disappear. Despite these losses, we know little about where these forests occur. Here, we present a comprehensive geodatabase and map of Europe’s known primary forests. Our geodatabase harmonizes 48 different, mostly field-based datasets of primary forests, and contains 18,411 individual patches (41.1 Mha) spread across 33 countries. When available, we provide information on each patch (name, location, naturalness, extent and dominant tree species) and the surrounding landscape (biogeographical regions, protection status, potential natural vegetation, current forest extent). Using Landsat satellite-image time series (1985–2018) we checked each patch for possible disturbance events since primary forests were identified, resulting in 94% of patches free of significant disturbances in the last 30 years. Although knowledge gaps remain, ours is the most comprehensive dataset on primary forests in Europe, and will be useful for ecological studies, and conservation planning to safeguard these unique forests.
Fibrinogen–Albumin-Ratio is an independent predictor of thromboembolic complications in patients undergoing VA-ECMO
Authors: Roth Sebastian , Jansen Catrin , M’Pembele René , Stroda Alexandra , Boeken Udo , Akhyari Payam , Lichtenberg Artur , Hollmann Markus W. , Huhn Ragnar , Lurati Buse Giovanna , Aubin Hug
Published: August 2021

Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) supports patients suffering from refractory cardiogenic shock. Thromboembolic complications (TeC) are common in VA-ECMO patients and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Valid markers to predict TeC in VA-ECMO patients are lacking. The present study investigated the predictive value of baseline Fibrinogen–Albumin-Ratio (FAR) for in-hospital TeC in patients undergoing VA-ECMO. This retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent VA-ECMO therapy due to cardiogenic shock at the University Hospital Duesseldorf, Germany between 2011 and 2018. Main exposure was baseline FAR measured at initiation of VA-ECMO therapy. The primary endpoint was the in-hospital incidence of TeC. In total, 344 patients were included into analysis (74.7% male, mean age 59 ± 14 years). The in-hospital incidence of TeC was 34%. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curve of FAR for in-hospital TeC revealed an area under the curve of 0.67 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.61–0.74]. Youden index determined a cutoff of 130 for baseline FAR. Multivariate logistic regression revealed an adjusted odds-ratio of 3.72 [95% CI 2.26–6.14] for the association between FAR and TeC. Baseline FAR is independently associated with in-hospital TeC in patients undergoing VA-ECMO. Thus, FAR might contribute to the prediction of TeC in this cohort.
The role and value of science in shark conservation advocacy
Authors: Shiffman David S. , Macdonald Catherine C. , Wallace S. Scott , Dulvy Nicholas K.
Published: August 2021

Many species of sharks are threatened with extinction, and there has been a longstanding debate in scientific and environmental circles over the most effective and appropriate strategy to conserve and protect them. Should we allow for sustainable fisheries exploitation of species which can withstand fishing pressure, or ban all fisheries for sharks and trade in shark products? In the developing world, exploitation of fisheries resources can be essential to food security and poverty alleviation, and global management efforts are typically focused on sustainably maximizing economic benefits. This approach aligns with traditional fisheries management and the perspectives of most surveyed scientific researchers who study sharks. However, in Europe and North America, sharks are increasingly venerated as wildlife to be preserved irrespective of conservation status, resulting in growing pressure to prohibit exploitation of sharks and trade in shark products. To understand the causes and significance of this divergence in goals, we surveyed 155 shark conservation focused environmental advocates from 78 environmental non-profits, and asked three key questions: (1) where do advocates get scientific information? (2) Does all policy-relevant scientific information reach advocates? and (3) Do advocates work towards the same policy goals identified by scientific researchers? Findings suggest many environmental advocates are aware of key scientific results and use science-based arguments in their advocacy, but a small but vocal subset of advocates report that they never read the scientific literature or speak to scientists. Engagement with science appears to be a key predictor of whether advocates support sustainable management of shark fisheries or bans on shark fishing and trade in shark products. Conservation is a normative discipline, and this analysis more clearly articulates two distinct perspectives in shark conservation. Most advocates support the same evidence-based policies as academic and government scientists, while a smaller percentage are driven more by moral and ethical beliefs and may not find scientific research relevant or persuasive. We also find possible evidence that a small group of non-profits may be misrepresenting the state of the science while claiming to use science-based arguments, a concern that has been raised by surveyed scientists about the environmental community. This analysis suggests possible alternative avenues for engaging diverse stakeholders in productive discussions about shark conservation.
Population affinity and variation of sexual dimorphism in three-dimensional facial forms: comparisons between Turkish and Japanese populations
Authors: Tanikawa Chihiro , Akcam M. Okan , Gokalp Hatice , Zere Edlira , Takada Kenji
Published: August 2021

Examining the extent to which sex differences in three-dimensional (3D) facial soft tissue configurations are similar across diverse populations could suggest the source of the indirect evolutionary benefits of facial sexual dimorphism traits. To explore this idea, we selected two geographically distinct populations. Three-dimensional model faces were derived from 272 Turkish and Japanese men and women; their facial morphologies were evaluated using landmark and surface-based analyses. We found four common facial features related to sexual dimorphism. Both Turkish and Japanese females had a shorter lower face height, a flatter forehead, greater sagittal cheek protrusion in the infraorbital region but less prominence of the cheek in the parotid-masseteric region, and an antero-posteriorly smaller nose when compared with their male counterparts. The results indicated the possible phylogenetic contribution of the masticatory organ function and morphogenesis on sexual dimorphism of the human face in addition to previously reported biological and psychological characteristics, including sexual maturity, reproductive potential, mating success, general health, immune response, age, and personality.