bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A millimeter‐wave scalable small‐signal modeling approach based on FW‐EM for AlGaN/GaN HEMT up to 110 GHz
Authors: Zhu Guiqiang , Chang Chen , Xu Yuehang , Zhang Ziheng , Al‐saman Amgad A. , Lin Fujiang
Published: May 2020

A new scalable small‐signal model for 0.1 μm AlGaN/GaN HEMT up to 110 GHz is presented in this paper. The taps between the gate/drain manifold and fingers on the device has been investigated and included in the equivalent circuit. In addition, to ensure high scalability, a set of scaling rules are presented. A novel extraction procedure for extrinsic capacitances using full‐wave electromagnetic (FW‐EM) method has been introduced along with corresponding structures used for EM simulation. The nonlinear dependence of the extrinsic inductances on the gate‐width has been accounted for by a new scaling rule, which can be used to extract their value from measurement data. To guarantee the stability of the scaling coefficients, two devices with different gate‐width have been utilized for their generation. The proposed scalable model has been verified using 0.1 μm AlGaN/GaN HEMT devices with different gate‐widths and different gate‐fingers. The experiment results show good agreement between model and measurement S‐parameters up to 110 GHz.
Ferroelectric polymer/ceramic nanocomposites with low energy losses
Authors: Saba Sadaf , Mustafa Ghulam M. , Saleem Murtaza , Ramay Shahid M. , Atiq Shahid
Published: May 2020

In order to meet the continuously increasing demand of modern electronic industries, there is an urgent need to develop the advanced energy storage materials. In this regard, polymer‐based dielectric composites are promising materials for futuristic technological applications. Herein, we synthesized a (1 − x) PVDF + xBFO composite by means of sol‐gel auto‐combustion route to explore its energy storage capabilities using impedance spectroscopy. After synthesis, field emission scanning electron microscope was utilized to examine exterior texture and obtained images showed the uniform distribution of BiFeO3 particles in polyvinylidene fluoride matrix with considerable amount of porosity. The particle size was measured using the ImageJ software. In conjunction with scanning electron microscopy, the stoichiometric amounts of all constituents were confirmed using energy dispersive X‐rays spectroscopy, working on the measurement of relative abundance of X‐rays vs their energy. Dielectric traits of these polymer composite ceramics were explored using precision impedance analyzer with varying frequency from 20 Hz to 20 MHz which explored their energy storage potential. The analysis of Nyquist plot helped to define the range of impedance spectrum where the different electroactive regions participated significantly in impedance response of the material. The effect of reinforcement contents on the nature of hopping length and relaxation phenomenon was probed through the complex modulus analysis. The energy storage capacity in terms of energy density was analyzed by checking the polarization response of the composite material in varying electric field which is a key feature for grading a material for energy storage devices.
Deuteration of nonexchangeable protons on proteins affects their thermal stability, side‐chain dynamics, and hydrophobicity
Authors: Nichols Parker J. , Falconer Isaac , Griffin Aaron , Mant Colin , Hodges Robert , McKnight Christopher J. , Vögeli Beat , Vugmeyster Liliya
Published: May 2020

We have investigated the effect of deuteration of non‐exchangeable protons on protein global thermal stability, hydrophobicity, and local flexibility using well‐known thermostable model systems such as the villin headpiece subdomain (HP36) and the third immunoglobulin G‐binding domain of protein G (GB3). Reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) measurements as a function of temperature probe global thermal stability in the presence of acetonitrile, while differential scanning calorimetry determines thermal stability in solution. Both indicate small but measurable changes in the order of several degrees. RP‐HPLC also permitted quantification of the effect of deuteration of just three core phenylalanine side chains of HP36. NMR dynamics investigation has focused on methyl axes motions using cross‐correlated relaxation measurements. The analysis of order parameters provided a complex picture indicating that deuteration generally increases motional amplitudes of sub‐nanosecond motion in GB3 but decreases those in HP36. Combined with earlier dynamics measurements at Cα–Cβ sites and backbone sites of GB3, which probed slower time scales, the results point to the need to probe multiple atoms in the protein and variety of time scales to the discern the full complexity of the effects of deuteration on dynamics.
Prostatic osteopontin expression is associated with symptomatic benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Popovics Petra , Awadallah Wisam N. , Kohrt Sarah E. , Case Thomas C. , Miller Nicole L. , Ricke Emily A. , Huang Wei , Ramirez‐Solano Marisol , Liu Qi , Vezina Chad M. , Matusik Robert J. , Ricke William A. , Grabowska Magdalena M.
Published: May 2020

Background

Male lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) occur in more than half of men above 50 years of age. LUTS were traditionally attributed to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and therefore the clinical terminology often uses LUTS and BPH interchangeably. More recently, LUTS were also linked to fibrogenic and inflammatory processes. We tested whether osteopontin (OPN), a proinflammatory and profibrotic molecule, is increased in symptomatic BPH. We also tested whether prostate epithelial and stromal cells secrete OPN in response to proinflammatory stimuli and identified downstream targets of OPN in prostate stromal cells.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was performed on prostate sections obtained from the transition zone of patients who underwent surgery (Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate) to relieve LUTS (surgical BPH, S‐BPH) or patients who underwent radical prostatectomy to remove low‐grade prostate cancer (incidental BPH, I‐BPH). Images of stained tissue sections were captured with a Nuance Multispectral Imaging System and histoscore, as a measure of OPN staining intensity, was determined with inForm software. OPN protein abundance was determined by Western blot analysis. The ability of prostate cells to secrete osteopontin in response to IL‐1β and TGF‐β1 was determined in stromal (BHPrS‐1) and epithelial (NHPrE‐1 and BHPrE‐1) cells by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to measure gene expression changes in these cells in response to OPN.

Results

OPN immunostaining and protein levels were more abundant in S‐BPH than I‐BPH. Staining was distributed across all cell types with the highest levels in epithelial cells. Multiple OPN protein variants were identified in immortalized prostate stromal and epithelial cells. TGF‐β1 stimulated OPN secretion by NHPrE‐1 cells and both IL‐1β and TGF‐β1 stimulated OPN secretion by BHPrS‐1 cells. Interestingly, recombinant OPN increased the mRNA expression of CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL8, PTGS2, and IL6 in BHPrS‐1, but not in epithelial cell lines.

Conclusions

OPN is more abundant in prostates of men with S‐BPH compared to men with I‐BPH. OPN secretion is stimulated by proinflammatory cytokines, and OPN acts directly on stromal cells to drive the synthesis of proinflammatory mRNAs. Pharmacological manipulation of prostatic OPN may have the potential to reduce LUTS by inhibiting both inflammatory and fibrotic pathways.
Behavioral effects of different attractants on adult male and female oriental fruit moths, Grapholita molesta
Authors: Kong Wei‐Na , Wang Yi , Guo Yong‐Fu , Chai Xiao‐Han , Li Jie , Ma Rui‐Yan
Published: May 2020

BACKGROUND

Grapholita molesta (Busck) is a fruit pest worldwide. While sex pheromones‐based technology for male attraction has made great progress in the monitoring or mass trapping of G. molesta, the attraction of males alone is not an effective reproductive control strategy. The integration of sex pheromones with female attractants, which have been reported to attract adult females and males, is therefore necessary. To determine a suitable dual‐sex attractant for trapping G. molesta, combinations of four attractants [sex pheromones (ph), host‐plant volatiles (pp), sugar‐acetic acid‐ethanol‐water solutions (ss), and food lures (fl)] were screened using electroantennograms, wind tunnel experiments, and field trial tests. Various mediums and antioxidants were then added to the selected attractants combination (AC) and examined in the field.

RESULTS

The responses of G. molesta to attractants differed significantly between the sexes. Increases in male activation behavior and trapping were motivated by ph, while pp and particularly ss increased adult antennae perception. In response to fl alone or together with ph, more male or female individuals were trapped. This indicates that ph, as a sex lure, and fl, as a host lure, may complete male and female attraction. Consequently, this combination is suggested. In the field trials, the additions of 10 μL of honey and 35% (184.3 μg) of 2,6‐di‐tert‐butyl‐4‐methylphenol [BTH] (preservatives) to the AC (ph + fl) resulted in moth captures equal to that of a commercial sex pheromones lure.

CONCLUSION

A dual‐sex attractant composed of ph, fl, honey, and BTH is recommended for trapping G. molesta in the field. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry
The Skill, Will, and Thrill of Comprehending Content Area Texts
Authors: Fisher Douglas , Frey Nancy
Published: May 2020

Literacy instruction does not just happen during the language arts block, as students can learn more about reading and writing during science, social studies, and mathematics. This department features examples of how teachers can teach literacy across various content areas.
Exploring the abundance of oleate hydratases in the genus Rhodococcus—discovery of novel enzymes with complementary substrate scope
Authors: Busch Hanna , Tonin Fabio , Alvarenga Natália , van den Broek Marcel , Lu Simona , Daran Jean-Marc , Hanefeld Ulf , Hagedoorn Peter-Leon
Published: May 2020

Oleate hydratases (Ohys, EC 4.2.1.53) are a class of enzymes capable of selective water addition reactions to a broad range of unsaturated fatty acids leading to the respective chiral alcohols. Much research was dedicated to improving the applications of existing Ohys as well as to the identification of undescribed Ohys with potentially novel properties. This study focuses on the latter by exploring the genus Rhodococcus for its plenitude of oleate hydratases. Three different Rhodococcus clades showed the presence of oleate hydratases whereby each clade was represented by a specific oleate hydratase family (HFam). Phylogenetic and sequence analyses revealed HFam-specific patterns amongst conserved amino acids. Oleate hydratases from two Rhodococcus strains (HFam 2 and 3) were heterologously expressed in Escherichia coli and their substrate scope investigated. Here, both enzymes showed a complementary behaviour towards sterically demanding and multiple unsaturated fatty acids. Furthermore, this study includes the characterisation of the newly discovered Rhodococcus pyridinivorans Ohy. The steady-state kinetics of R. pyridinivorans Ohy was measured using a novel coupled assay based on the alcohol dehydrogenase and NAD+-dependent oxidation of 10-hydroxystearic acid.
Thrombocytosis helps to stratify risk of colorectal cancer in patients referred on a 2-week-wait pathway
Authors: Bailey J. A. , Hanbali N. , Premji K. , Bunce J. , Mashlab S. , Simpson J. A. , Humes D. J. , Banerjea A.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Primary care studies suggest that thrombocytosis (platelet counts > 400 × 109/L) is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). We aimed to establish whether this marker has significant stratification value in patients seen in secondary care.

Methods

A retrospective review of 2991 patients referred to our colorectal 2-week-wait (2WW) pathway between August 2014 and August 2017. Patient demographics were recorded prospectively, and local electronic records systems were used to retrieve full blood counts (FBC) and cancer diagnoses. Patients with no recent platelet count at the time of referral or incomplete records were excluded.

Results

2236 patients were included in this evaluation. There was no significant difference in the age distribution of those with thrombocytosis and those without. There were significantly more females in the thrombocytosis group (72.1% vs 53.9%, chi-squared 24.63, p < 0.0001). 130 CRCs were detected (5.8%) and patients with thrombocytosis were more likely to have CRC (OR 2.62, 95% CI 1.60–4.30). The CRC diagnosis rate was significantly higher in females with thrombocytosis (10.3% vs 2.9%, chi-squared 19.41, p < 0.0001) and males with thrombocytosis (16.1% vs 7.9%, chi-squared 4.62, p = 0.032).

Conclusion

Thrombocytosis appears to have stratification value in the 2WW population. Further evaluation of its value alone or in combination with other stratification tests is required.
UV light-based decontamination: an effective and fast way for disinfection of endoscopes in otorhinolaryngology?
Authors: Rudhart Stefan A. , Günther Frank , Dapper Laura , Thangavelu Kruthika , Gehrt Francesca , Stankovic Petar , Wilhelm Thomas , Guenzel Thomas , Stuck Boris A. , Hoch Stephan
Published: May 2020

Background

Reprocessing of endoscopes becomes increasingly complex, due to rising demands of hygiene. Established methods are often expensive/time-consuming. Recent studies suggest beneficial aspects of disinfection by UV light. In this study we analyzed the efficiency of UV light disinfection of rigid otorhinolaryngological endoscopes.

Materials and methods

After mechanical pre-cleaning, the endoscopes were decontaminated for 25 s in the D25 using Impelux™ UV C light technology (UV Smart B.V., Delft, The Netherlands). First, the surface contact samples were taken from 50 used endoscopes to evaluate the bacterial load. Additionally, surface contact samples were taken from further 50 used endoscopes after reprocessing with the D25. Another 50 endoscopes were tested on protein residuals. Furthermore, the absolute effectiveness of the D25 was tested on 50 test bodies (RAMS) with a standardized contamination of 107 colony-forming units (CFU) of Enterococcus faecium.

Results

The used endoscopes showed a high bacterial contamination with an average value of 66.908 (± 239.215) CFU. After reprocessing, only a minimal contamination on 10% (n = 5) of the endoscopes with a mean value of 0.12 CFU (± 0.39) was found, resulting in a log-5 reduction in a clinical environment. The documented bacteria were components of the normal skin flora. All tested endoscopes were practically protein-free (< 1 μg). Furthermore, the average absolute germ reduction of the D25 was about 106 CFU on the tested RAMS.

Conclusion

The D25 UV light system seems to be an effective device for the reprocessing of rigid ORL endoscopes, and therefore, might be suitable for the usage in clinical practice on site.
The ballistic performance of bone when impacted by fragments
Authors: Caister A. J. , Carr D. J. , Campbell P. D. , Brock F. , Breeze J.
Published: May 2020

Physical models are required to generate the underlying algorithms that populate computer simulations of the effects of explosive fragmenting devices. These models and simulations are used for understanding weapon performance, designing buildings and optimising personal protective equipment. Previous experimental work has investigated the performance of skin and muscle when subjected to fragmentation threats, but limited evidence exists for the performance of bone when impacted by fragments. In the current work, ballistic testing was conducted using two types of internationally recognised steel fragment simulating projectiles (FSPs): (i) 5.5 mm diameter (0.68 g) ball bearing (BBs) and (ii) 1.10 g chisel nosed (CN). These projectiles were fired at isolated swine ribs at impact velocities between 99 and 1265 m/s. Impact events were recorded using a high-speed camera. Selected specimens were analysed post-impact with plain x-radiographs and micro-CT scanning to determine damage to the bone architecture. Bones were perforated with a kinetic energy density (KED) as low as 0.14 J/mm2. Energy transfer to the bone was greater for the CN FSPs, resulting in increased bone damage and the production of secondary bone fragments. The manner in which the bones failed with faster velocity impacts (> 551 m/s; KED > 6.44 J/mm2) was analogous to the behaviour of a brittle material. Slower velocity impacts (< 323 m/s; KED < 1.49 J/mm2) showed a transition in failure mode with the bone displaying the properties of an elastic, plastic and brittle material at various points during the impact. The study gives critical insight into how bone behaves under these circumstances.
Molecular detection of a novel cyprinid herpesvirus in roach (Rutilus rutilus) and asp (Leuciscus aspius) showing typical signs of carp pox disease
Authors: Sellyei Boglárka , Baska Ferenc , Varga Ádám , Borzák Réka , Doszpoly Andor
Published: May 2020

In the early spring of 2018, in Lake Balaton (Hungary), a roach (Rutilus rutilus) and an asp (Leuciscus aspius) were found in an fish trap at the outlet of the river Sió showing typical signs of the so-called carp pox disease, such as foci of epidermal hyperplasia on the head and the whole body surface, including the fins. Molecular tests revealed the presence of the DNA of an unknown fish herpesvirus. Three genes encoding the DNA-dependent DNA polymerase, major capsid protein and ATPase subunit of terminase were amplified and sequenced from the alloherpesviral genome. The gene sequences of the viruses obtained from the two different fish species shared 94.4% nucleotide sequence identity (98.1% amino acid sequence identity), suggesting that they belong to the same virus species. Phylogenetic analysis based on the DNA polymerase (and the concatenated sequences of the amplified genes, as well) implied that the detected virus belongs to the genus Cyprinivirus within the family Alloherpesviridae. The sequences of the novel alloherpesvirus diverge from those of the five cyprinivirus species described previously, so it putatively represents the sixth virus species in the genus.
Synthetic Morphology: A Vision of Engineering Biological Form
Authors: Gramelsberger Gabriele
Published: May 2020

Morphological engineering is an emerging research area in synthetic biology. In 2008 “synthetic morphology” was proposed as a prospective approach to engineering self-constructing anatomies by Jamie A. Davies of the University of Edinburgh. Synthetic morphology can establish a new paradigm, according to Davies, insofar as “cells can be programmed to organize themselves into specific, designed arrangements, structures and tissues.” It is obvious that this new approach will extrapolate morphology into a new realm beyond the traditional logic of morphological research. However, synthetic morphology is a highly idealized vision of morphology which derives its visionary ideas from morphological engineering and mathematical idealizations in order to understand the principles of molecular morphology. Thus, the question is, if this approach will help to understand morphogenesis better or if it will just enable biologists to engineer morphogenesis. The paper investigates the development of synthetic morphology and its relation to synthetic biology as well as its epistemic gains.
Intercomparison exercise on difficult to measure radionuclides in activated steel: statistical analysis of radioanalytical results and activation calculations
Authors: Leskinen Anumaija , Salminen-Paatero Susanna , Gautier Celine , Räty Antti , Tanhua-Tyrkkö Merja , Fichet Pascal , Kekki Tommi , Zhang Wenzhong , Bubendorff Jacques , Laporte Elodie , Lambrot Gabriel , Brennetot René
Published: May 2020

This paper reports the results obtained during an intercomparison exercise for the determination of difficult to measure radionuclides in activated reactor pressure vessel (RPV) steel samples. In total, eight laboratories participated analysing 14C, 55Fe and 63Ni activity concentrations in RPV steel. In addition, some laboratories also analysed 60Co activity concentrations. Corresponding activity concentrations were also determined using activation calculations. Robust statistical techniques were utilised for the analysis of the results according to ISO 13528 standard. The results showed good agreement for 55Fe and 63Ni results whereas 14C results had significant differences. 60Co results were in quite good agreement.
Routinised heating system installation: the immutability of home heating
Authors: Wade Faye
Published: May 2020

Space heating is the largest contributor to domestic energy consumption in the UK (UK). Gas central heating systems usually extend into every room of a property, but often sit in the background of the lives of those using them. Installation could offer a critical moment to optimise the operating efficiency of these systems, or consider alternative low carbon technologies. However, whether installation acts as one such moment of change is currently unknown. Using ethnographic data collection, and the concepts of translation and interessement from Actor-Network Theory, this paper explores the tensions between existing socio-technical arrangements and the new system components taking their position in the home. Installers are found to be subject to competing requirements from industry guidance and regulation, new system components and existing domestic configurations. A process of negotiation and compromise is revealed. This results in ‘like-for-like’ installations and heating system components being squeezed into spaces and hidden away. These efforts to maintain the status quo reinforce the immutability of domestic heating, restrict opportunities to fit alternative low carbon technologies and limit possibilities to reduce domestic energy consumption.
Probiotic Administration Increases Amino Acid Absorption from Plant Protein: a Placebo-Controlled, Randomized, Double-Blind, Multicenter, Crossover Study
Authors: Jäger Ralf , Zaragoza Javier , Purpura Martin , Iametti Stefania , Marengo Mauro , Tinsley Grant M. , Anzalone Anthony J. , Oliver Jonathan M. , Fiore Walter , Biffi Andrea , Urbina Stacie , Taylor Lem
Published: May 2020

The fate of dietary protein in the gut is determined by microbial and host digestion and utilization. Fermentation of proteins generates bioactive molecules that have wide-ranging health effects on the host. The type of protein can affect amino acid absorption, with animal proteins generally being more efficiently absorbed compared with plant proteins. In contrast to animal proteins, most plant proteins, such as pea protein, are incomplete proteins. Pea protein is low in methionine and contains lower amounts of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), which play a crucial role in muscle health. We hypothesized that probiotic supplementation results in favorable changes in the gut microbiota, aiding the absorption of amino acids from plant proteins by the host. Fifteen physically active men (24.2 ± 5.0 years; 85.3 ± 12.9 kg; 178.0 ± 7.6 cm; 16.7 ± 5.8% body fat) co-ingested 20 g of pea protein with either AminoAlta™, a multi-strain probiotic (5 billion CFU L. paracasei LP-DG® (CNCM I-1572) plus 5 billion CFU L. paracasei LPC-S01 (DSM 26760), SOFAR S.p.A., Italy) or a placebo for 2 weeks in a randomized, double-blind, crossover design, separated by a 4-week washout period. Blood samples were taken at baseline and at 30-, 60-, 120-, and 180-min post-ingestion and analyzed for amino acid content. Probiotic administration significantly increased methionine, histidine, valine, leucine, isoleucine, tyrosine, total BCAA, and total EAA maximum concentrations (Cmax) and AUC without significantly changing the time to reach maximum concentrations. Probiotic supplementation can be an important nutritional strategy to improve post-prandial changes in blood amino acids and to overcome compositional shortcomings of plant proteins. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: ISRCTN38903788
Neural substrates of anorexia nervosa patient’s deficits to decode emotional information
Authors: Lulé Dorothée , Müller Sabine , Fladung Anne-Katharina , Uttner Ingo , Schulze Ulrike M. E .
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The aim of the study was to define specific substrates of pathological behaviour patterns by analysing cortical activity using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) during an emotional processing task.

Methods

In a sample of N = 11 adolescent patients with AN (16.36 years, SD ± 1.36) and N = 11 age-matched controls, we performed a functional MRI study to detect BOLD signal changes in a 3 T MRI scanner while presenting emotional facial stimuli.

Results

Young people with AN presented with a generally reduced cortical activation pattern in key areas of emotion recognition for happy and fearful faces. Areas essential for control of social behaviour were associated with symptoms of depression.

Conclusion

Obviously, there are already indications of cortical patterns in young affected persons, which indicate a changed emotional reaction to potentially aversive stimuli in the sense of a changed top-down process of emotion avoidance. Thus, the current study provides further evidence that the disorder of anorexia nervosa is closely related to deficits in emotion processing in the early course of ontogenesis. Depressive symptoms might additionally trigger pathological behavior. Due to the small sample size, the data should be considered preliminary and require further validation.

Level of evidence

Level of evidence III: case–control study.
Molecular basis of ageing in chronic metabolic diseases
Authors: Spinelli R. , Parrillo L. , Longo M. , Florese P. , Desiderio A. , Zatterale F. , Miele C. , Raciti G. Alexander , Beguinot F.
Published: May 2020

Aim

Over the last decades, the shift in age distribution towards older ages and the progressive ageing which has occurred in most populations have been paralleled by a global epidemic of obesity and its related metabolic disorders, primarily, type 2 diabetes (T2D). Dysfunction of the adipose tissue (AT) is widely recognized as a significant hallmark of the ageing process that, in turn, results in systemic metabolic alterations. These include insulin resistance, accumulation of ectopic lipids and chronic inflammation, which are responsible for an elevated risk of obesity and T2D onset associated to ageing. On the other hand, obesity and T2D, the paradigms of AT dysfunction, share many physiological characteristics with the ageing process, such as an increased burden of senescent cells and epigenetic alterations. Thus, these chronic metabolic disorders may represent a state of accelerated ageing.

Materials and methods

A more precise explanation of the fundamental ageing mechanisms that occur in AT and a deeper understanding of their role in the interplay between accelerated ageing and AT dysfunction can be a fundamental leap towards novel therapies that address the causes, not just the symptoms, of obesity and T2D, utilizing strategies that target either senescent cells or DNA methylation.

Results

In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the pathways that lead to AT dysfunction in the chronological ageing process as well as the pathophysiology of obesity and T2D, emphasizing the critical role of cellular senescence and DNA methylation.

Conclusion

Finally, we highlight the need for further research focused on targeting these mechanisms.
The environmental factors limiting the distribution of shallow-water terebratulid brachiopods
Authors: García-Ramos Diego A. , Ćorić Stjepan , Joachimski Michael M. , Zuschin Martin
Published: May 2020

The Cenozoic genusTerebratulaseems to be an exception to the post-Permian trend in brachiopod retreat to offshore habitats, because it was species rich and numerically abundant in warm-temperate shallow-water environments in the Mediterranean and the Paratethys realms. This was so despite the general dominance of bivalves and the pervasive bioturbation and predation pressure during the Neogene.Terebratula, however, went extinct in the Calabrian (Pleistocene). The optimal environmental conditions forTerebratuladuring its prime are poorly known. The Águilas Basin (SE Spain) is an ideal study area to investigate the habitat ofTerebratula, because shell beds of this brachiopod occur there cyclically in early Pliocene deposits. We evaluate the paleoecological boundary conditions controlling the distribution ofTerebratulaby estimating its environmental tolerances using benthic and planktic foraminiferal and nannoplanktic assemblages and oxygen isotopes of the secondary layer brachiopod calcite. Our results suggest thatTerebratulain the Águilas Basin favored oligotrophic to mesotrophic, well-oxygenated environments at water depths of 60–90 m. Planktic foraminiferal assemblages and oxygen isotopes point to sea-surface temperatures between ~16°C and 22°C, and bottom-water temperatures between 17°C and 24°C. The analyzed proxies indicate thatTerebratulatolerated local variations in water depth, bottom temperature, oxygenation, productivity, and organic enrichment.Terebratulawas probably excluded by grazing pressure from well-lit environments and preferentially occupied sediment-starved, current-swept upper offshore habitats where coralline red algae were absent. Narrow temperature ranges ofTerebratulaspecies might have been a disadvantage during the high-amplitude seawater temperature fluctuations that started about 1 Ma, when the genus went extinct.
Germline variant inREXO2is a novel candidate gene in familial pheochromocytoma
Authors: Laitman Yael , Tzur Shay , Attali Ruben , Tirosh Amit , Friedman Eitan
Published: May 2020

Pheochromocytoma (PCC) is a rare, mostly benign tumour of the adrenal medulla. Hereditary PCC accounts for ~35% of cases and has been associated with germline mutations in several cancer susceptibility genes (e.g.,KIF1B,SDHB,VHL,SDHD,RET). We performed whole-exome sequencing in a family with four PCC-affected patients in two consecutive generations and identified a potential novel candidate pathogenic variant in theREXO2gene that affects splicing (c.531-1G>T (NM 015523.3)), which co-segregated with the phenotype in the family.REXO2encodes for RNA exonuclease 2 protein and localizes to 11q23, a chromosomal region displaying allelic imbalance in PCC. REXO2 protein has been associated with DNA repair, replication and recombination processes and thus its inactivation may contribute to tumorigenesis. While the study suggests that this novelREXO2gene variant underlies PCC in this family, additional functional studies are required in order to establish the putative role of theREXO2gene in PCC predisposition.
DECODING THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF PROBLEMATIC DEPOSITS IN THE MAYA LOWLANDS
Authors: Aimers James J. , Hoggarth Julie A. , Awe Jaime J.
Published: May 2020

The term “problematical deposits” was coined decades ago at Tikal to refer to special deposits that were neither burials nor caches. Since that time, the term has been expanded to refer to a range of deposits that have puzzled archaeologists. In this paper we review the various interpretations that have been offered for these deposits includingde factorefuse, squatter deposits, and the remains of dedication or termination ritual, feasting, or pilgrimage. We argue that the superficial similarity of these deposits can make it difficult to identify the range of activities that they represent and that detailed contextual analysis is required to distinguish them. We offer some of the archaeological correlates that have been associated with different types of problematic deposits.
THE LAST HURRAH: EXAMINING THE NATURE OF PERI-ABANDONMENT DEPOSITS AND ACTIVITIES AT CAHAL PECH, BELIZE
Authors: Awe Jaime J. , Ebert Claire E. , Hoggarth Julie A. , Aimers James J. , Helmke Christophe , Douglas John , Stemp W. James
Published: May 2020

Archaeological investigations by the Belize Valley Archaeological Reconnaissance Project at Cahal Pech uncovered several Terminal Classic (a.d.750–900) peri-abandonment deposits and activity areas at this Belize River Valley center. The deposits contained a diverse assemblage of cultural remains located above and between collapsed architecture, associated with evidence for burning activities. In the past, archaeologists have generally interpreted similar assemblages as “problematic deposits”—“de facto” refuse (garbage)—as associated with building termination and desecration, or as evidence for rapid abandonment during the violent destruction of these ancient cities. It is argued here that the microstratigraphic excavation and contextual analysis of these features provide limited support for these explanations. Alternatively, we suggest that the deposits are more likely associated with peri-abandonment rituals that were conducted by a reduced remnant population at Cahal Pech, or by small groups who continued to reside in the site's periphery during the last stages of the Terminal Classic period.
Imaging Seismic Sources
Authors: Li Lei , Schwarz Benjamin
Published: May 2020

Waveform‐based location methods are being used to better characterize and understand seismic sources from the laboratory to the global scale.
LINC01116 promotes tumor proliferation and neutrophil recruitment via DDX5-mediated regulation of IL-1β in glioma cell
Authors: Wang Teng , Cao Lihua , Dong Xin , Wu Fei , De Wei , Huang Lin , Wan Qi
Published: May 2020

Tumor-associated neutrophils (TANs) are important inflammatory infiltrating cells in the tumor microenvironment and are closely related to the development of human tumor. However, the underlying mechanism of TANs recruiting to glioma remains unknown. Herein, we identified that LINC01116 was significantly upregulated in glioma, and positively correlated with clinical malignancy and survival prognosis. LINC01116 regulated the progression of glioma in vitro and in vivo. RNA-seq analysis demonstrated that LINC01116 knockdown affected the expression of IL-1β, which promoted glioma proliferation and neutrophil recruitment. Furthermore, the co-culture of glioma cells and neutrophils showed that the accumulation of TANs promoted tumor proliferation via producing a host of cytokines. Mechanistically, LINC01116 activated IL-1β expression by recruiting the transcriptional regulator DDX5 to the IL-1β promoter. Our findings reveal that LINC01116 can promote glioma proliferation and neutrophil recruitment by regulating IL-1β, and may be served as a novel target for glioma therapy and prognosis.
Dysfunction of ATG7-dependent autophagy dysregulates the antioxidant response and contributes to oxidative stress-induced biological impairments in human epidermal melanocytes
Authors: Qiao Zhuhui , Xu Zhongyi , Xiao Qing , Yang Yiwen , Ying Jiayi , Xiang Leihong , Zhang Chengfeng
Published: May 2020

Autophagy is a process involving the self-digestion of components that participates in anti-oxidative stress responses and protects cells against oxidative damage. However, the role of autophagy in the anti-oxidative stress responses of melanocytes remains unclear. To investigate the role of autophagy in human epidermal melanocytes, we knocked down and overexpressed ATG7, the critical gene of autophagy, in normal human epidermal melanocytes. We demonstrated that ATG7-dependent autophagy could affect melanin content of melanocytes by regulating melanogenesis. Moreover, suppression of ATG7-dependent autophagy inhibits proliferation and promotes oxidative stress-induced apoptosis of melanocytes, whereas enhancement of ATG7-dependent autophagy protects melanocytes from oxidative stress-induced apoptosis. Meanwhile, deficiency of ATG7-dependent autophagy results in premature senescence of melanocytes under oxidative stress. Notably, we verified that ATG7-dependent autophagy could alter oxidative stress homeostasis by regulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) antioxidant pathway, and the activity of several antioxidant enzymes in melanocytes. In conclusion, our study suggested that ATG7-dependent autophagy is indispensable for redox homeostasis and the biological functions of melanocytes, such as melanogenesis, proliferation, apoptosis, and senescence, especially under oxidative stress.
Recent hybrids recapitulate ancient hybrid outcomes
Authors: Chaturvedi Samridhi , Lucas Lauren K. , Buerkle C. Alex , Fordyce James A. , Forister Matthew L. , Nice Chris C. , Gompert Zachariah
Published: May 2020

Genomic outcomes of hybridization depend on selection and recombination in hybrids. Whether these processes have similar effects on hybrid genome composition in contemporary hybrid zones versus ancient hybrid lineages is unknown. Here we show that patterns of introgression in a contemporary hybrid zone inLycaeidesbutterflies predict patterns of ancestry in geographically adjacent, older hybrid populations. We find a particularly striking lack of ancestry from one of the hybridizing taxa,Lycaeides melissa, on the Z chromosome in both the old and contemporary hybrids. The same pattern of reducedL. melissaancestry on the Z chromosome is seen in two other ancient hybrid lineages. More generally, we find that patterns of ancestry in old or ancient hybrids are remarkably predictable from contemporary hybrids, which suggests selection and recombination affect hybrid genomes in a similar way across disparate time scales and during distinct stages of speciation and species breakdown.
Mutualism increases diversity, stability, and function of multiplex networks that integrate pollinators into food webs
Authors: Hale Kayla R. S. , Valdovinos Fernanda S. , Martinez Neo D.
Published: May 2020

Ecosystems are composed of complex networks of many species interacting in different ways. While ecologists have long studied food webs of feeding interactions, recent studies increasingly focus on mutualistic networks including plants that exchange food for reproductive services provided by animals such as pollinators. Here, we synthesize both types of consumer-resource interactions to better understand the controversial effects of mutualism on ecosystems at the species, guild, and whole-community levels. We find that consumer-resource mechanisms underlying plant-pollinator mutualisms can increase persistence, productivity, abundance, and temporal stability of both mutualists and non-mutualists in food webs. These effects strongly increase with floral reward productivity and are qualitatively robust to variation in the prevalence of mutualism and pollinators feeding upon resources in addition to rewards. This work advances the ability of mechanistic network theory to synthesize different types of interactions and illustrates how mutualism can enhance the diversity, stability, and function of complex ecosystems.
Midkine activation of CD8+ T cells establishes a neuron–immune–cancer axis responsible for low-grade glioma growth
Authors: Guo Xiaofan , Pan Yuan , Xiong Min , Sanapala Shilpa , Anastasaki Corina , Cobb Olivia , Dahiya Sonika , Gutmann David H.
Published: May 2020

Brain tumors (gliomas) are heterogeneous cellular ecosystems, where non-neoplastic monocytic cells have emerged as key regulators of tumor maintenance and progression. However, relative to macrophages/microglia, comparatively less is known about the roles of neurons and T cells in glioma pathobiology. Herein, we leverage genetically engineered mouse models and human biospecimens to define the axis in which neurons, T cells, and microglia interact to govern Neurofibromatosis-1 (NF1) low-grade glioma (LGG) growth. NF1-mutant human and mouse brain neurons elaborate midkine to activate naïve CD8+ T cells to produce Ccl4, which induces microglia to produce a key LGG growth factor (Ccl5) critical for LGG stem cell survival. Importantly, increased CCL5 expression is associated with reduced survival in patients with LGG. The elucidation of the critical intercellular dependencies that constitute the LGG neuroimmune axis provides insights into the role of neurons and immune cells in controlling glioma growth, relevant to future therapeutic targeting.
Real-time monitoring of PARP1-dependent PARylation by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy
Authors: Krüger Annika , Bürkle Alexander , Hauser Karin , Mangerich Aswin
Published: May 2020

Poly-ADP-ribosylation (PARylation) is a fully reversible post-translational modification with key roles in cellular physiology. Due to the multi-domain structure of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 (PARP1) and the highly dynamic nature of the PARylation reaction, studies on the biochemical mechanism and structural dynamics remain challenging. Here, we report label-free, time-resolved monitoring of PARP1-dependent PARylation using ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. This includes PARP1 activation by binding to DNA strand break models, NAD+ substrate binding, PAR formation, and dissociation of automodified PARP1 from DNA. Analyses of PARP1 activation at different DNA models demonstrate a strong positive correlation of PARylation and PARP1 dissociation, with the strongest effects observed for DNA nicks and 3’ phosphorylated ends. Moreover, by examining dynamic structural changes of PARP1, we reveal changes in the secondary structure of PARP1 induced by NAD+ and PARP inhibitor binding. In summary, this approach enables holistic and dynamic insights into PARP1-dependent PARylation with molecular and temporal resolution.
Repressive chromatin modification underpins the long-term expression trend of a perennial flowering gene in nature
Authors: Nishio Haruki , Buzas Diana M. , Nagano Atsushi J. , Iwayama Koji , Ushio Masayuki , Kudoh Hiroshi
Published: May 2020

Natural environments require organisms to possess robust mechanisms allowing responses to seasonal trends. InArabidopsis halleri, the flowering regulatorAhgFLCshows upregulation and downregulation phases along with long-term past temperature, but the underlying machinery remains elusive. Here, we investigate the seasonal dynamics of histone modifications, H3K27me3 and H3K4me3, atAhgFLCin a natural population. Our advanced modelling and transplant experiments reveal that H3K27me3-mediated chromatin regulation atAhgFLCprovides two essential properties. One is the ability to respond to the long-term temperature trends via bidirectional interactions between H3K27me3 and H3K4me3; the other is the ratchet-like character of theAhgFLCsystem, i.e. reversible in the entire perennial life cycle but irreversible during the upregulation phase. Furthermore, we show that the long-term temperature trends are locally indexed atAhgFLCin the form of histone modifications. Our study provides a more comprehensive understanding of H3K27me3 function atAhgFLCin a complex natural environment.
Evidence for a serpentinized plate interface favouring continental subduction
Authors: Zhao Liang , Malusà Marco G. , Yuan Huaiyu , Paul Anne , Guillot Stéphane , Lu Yang , Stehly Laurent , Solarino Stefano , Eva Elena , Lu Gang , Bodin Thomas ,   CIFALPS Group, Zhao Liang , Malusà Marco G. , Paul Anne , Guillot Stéphane , Solarino Stefano , Eva Elena , Lu Gang ,   AlpArray Working Group, Paul Anne , Solarino Stefano
Published: May 2020

The dynamics of continental subduction is largely controlled by the rheological properties of rocks involved along the subduction channel. Serpentinites have low viscosity at geological strain rates. However, compelling geophysical evidence of a serpentinite channel during continental subduction is still lacking. Here we show that anomalously low shear-wave seismic velocities are found beneath the Western Alps, along the plate interface between the European slab and the overlying Adriatic mantle. We propose that these seismic velocities indicate the stacked remnants of a weak fossilised serpentinite channel, which includes both slivers of abyssal serpentinite formed at the ocean floor and mantle-wedge serpentinite formed by fluid release from the subducting slab. Our results suggest that this serpentinized plate interface may have favoured the subduction of continental crust into the upper mantle and the formation/exhumation of ultra-high pressure metamorphic rocks, providing new constraints to develop the conceptual and quantitative understanding of continental-subduction dynamics.
Exploiting racemism enhanced organic room-temperature phosphorescence to demonstrate Wallach’s rule in the lighting chiral chromophores
Authors: Wu Xiugang , Huang Chun-Ying , Chen Deng-Gao , Liu Denghui , Wu Chichi , Chou Keh-Jiunh , Zhang Bin , Wang Yafei , Liu Yu , Li Elise Y. , Zhu Weiguo , Chou Pi-Tai
Published: May 2020

The correlation between molecular packing structure and its room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP), hence rational promotion of the intensity, remains unclear. We herein present racemism enhanced RTP chiral chromophores by 2,2-bis-(diphenylphosphino)-1,1-napthalene (rac-BINAP) in comparison to its chiral counterparts. The result shows that rac-BINAP in crystal with denser density, consistent with a long standing Wallach’s rule, exhibits deeper red RTP at 680 nm than that of the chiral counterparts. The cross packing between alternative R- and S- forms in rac-BINAP crystal significantly retards the bimolecular quenching pathway, triplet-triplet annihilation (TTA), and hence suppresses the non-radiative pathway, boosting the RTP intensity. The result extends the Wallach’s rule to the fundamental difference in chiral-photophysics. In electroluminescence, rac-BINAP exhibits more balanced fluorescence versus phosphorescence intensity by comparison with that of photoluminescence, rendering a white-light emission. The result paves an avenue en route for white-light organic light emitting diodes via full exploitation of intrinsic fluorescence and phosphorescence.
Lattice distortion induced internal electric field in TiO2 photoelectrode for efficient charge separation and transfer
Authors: Hu Yuxiang , Pan Yuanyuan , Wang Zhiliang , Lin Tongen , Gao Yuying , Luo Bin , Hu Han , Fan Fengtao , Liu Gang , Wang Lianzhou
Published: May 2020

Providing sufficient driving force for charge separation and transfer (CST) is a critical issue in photoelectrochemical (PEC) energy conversion. Normally, the driving force is derived mainly from band bending at the photoelectrode/electrolyte interface but negligible in the bulk. To boost the bulky driving force, we report a rational strategy to create effective electric field via controllable lattice distortion in the bulk of a semiconductor film. This concept is verified by the lithiation of a classic TiO2 (Li-TiO2) photoelectrode, which leads to significant distortion of the TiO6 unit cells in the bulk with well-aligned dipole moment. A remarkable internal built-in electric field of ~2.1 × 102 V m−1 throughout the Li-TiO2 film is created to provide strong driving force for bulky CST. The photoelectrode demonstrates an over 750% improvement of photocurrent density and 100 mV negative shift of onset potential upon the lithiation compared to that of pristine TiO2 film.