bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroprotection of dopamine neurons by xenon against low-level excitotoxic insults is not reproduced by other noble gases
Authors: Le Nogue Déborah , Lavaur Jérémie , Milet Aude , Ramirez-Gil Juan Fernando , Katz Ira , Lemaire Marc , Farjot Géraldine , Hirsch Etienne C. , Michel Patrick Pierre
Published: December 2019

Using midbrain cultures, we previously demonstrated that the noble gas xenon is robustly protective for dopamine (DA) neurons exposed to l-trans-pyrrolidine-2,4-dicarboxylate (PDC), an inhibitor of glutamate uptake used to generate sustained, low-level excitotoxic insults. DA cell rescue was observed in conditions where the control atmosphere for cell culture was substituted with a gas mix, comprising the same amount of oxygen (20%) and carbon dioxide (5%) but 75% of xenon instead of nitrogen. In the present study, we first aimed to determine whether DA cell rescue against PDC remains detectable when concentrations of xenon are progressively reduced in the cell culture atmosphere. Besides, we also sought to compare the effect of xenon to that of other noble gases, including helium, neon and krypton. Our results show that the protective effect of xenon for DA neurons was concentration-dependent with an IC50 estimated at about 44%. We also established that none of the other noble gases tested in this study protected DA neurons from PDC-mediated insults. Xenon’s effectiveness was most probably due to its unique capacity to block NMDA glutamate receptors. Besides, mathematical modeling of gas diffusion in the culture medium revealed that the concentration reached by xenon at the cell layer level is the highest of all noble gases when neurodegeneration is underway. Altogether, our data suggest that xenon may be of potential therapeutic value in Parkinson disease, a chronic neurodegenerative condition where DA neurons appear vulnerable to slow excitotoxicity.
Clinical characteristics and long-term follow-up of seven cases of anti-GABABR encephalitis in patients of Han Chinese descent
Authors: Zeng Wei , Cao Liming , Zheng Jinou , Yu Lu
Published: December 2019

Objective

To improve the diagnosis and treatment of anti-GABAB receptor (anti-GABABR) encephalitis and prevent misdiagnosis or non-diagnosis.

Methods

We retrospectively examined the chief clinical manifestations, auxiliary examination results, treatment strategies, treatment efficacy, and long-term follow-up results of seven consecutive patients with anti-GABABR encephalitis.

Results

Epileptic seizures were the first symptom in 100% of the patients; 85.7% had memory deficit in the hospital, 42.8% had residual symptoms of cognitive impairment at discharge, and 28.6% had cognitive impairment at the end of follow-up; 71.4% of the patients had psychosis in the hospital, 57.1% had residual symptoms of psychosis at discharge, and 14.3% still had psychosis at the end of follow-up. However, the clinical symptoms (psychiatric disorders, cognitive decline) and signs (consciousness disturbance) at onset and after follow-up were not significantly different (P > 0.05). In 71.4% of the patients, anti-GABABR antibody serum levels were higher than those in the cerebrospinal fluid (especially in patients with lung cancer). Magnetic resonance imaging in 71.4% of patients indicated that the marginal lobe demonstrated encephalitis lesions. The average modified Rankin Scale score (2.0 ± 2.31) at follow-up was significantly better than that (3.86 ± 0.90) at the time of admission (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The clinical characteristics of anti-GABABR encephalitis were refractory epilepsy, psychiatric disorders, and cognitive impairment. Multiple antiepileptic drugs are crucial for the treatment of intractable epilepsy. Clinicians should eliminate the possibility of small-cell lung cancer in patients with high anti-GABABR antibody levels. Early active immunotherapy is effective, and the long-term prognosis is good for patients without tumors.
When misconceptions impede best practices: evidence supports biological control of invasive Phragmites
Authors: Blossey Bernd , Endriss Stacy B. , Casagrande Richard , Häfliger Patrick , Hinz Hariet , Dávalos Andrea , Brown-Lima Carrie , Tewksbury Lisa , Bourchier Robert S.
Published: December 2019

Development of a biological control program for invasivePhagmites australis australisin North America required 20 years of careful research, and consideration of management alternatives. A recent paper by Kiviat et al. (Biol Invasions 21:2529–2541, 2019.10.1007/s10530-019-02014-9) articulates opposition to this biocontrol program and questions the ethics and thoroughness of the researchers. Here we address inaccuracies and misleading statements presented in Kiviat et al. (2019), followed by a brief overview of why biological control targetingPhragmitesin North America can be implemented safely with little risk to native species. Similar to our colleagues, we are very concerned about the risks invasivePhragmitesrepresent to North American habitats. But to protect those habitats and the species, includingP. australis americanus, we come to a different decision regarding biological control. Current management techniques have not been able to reverse the invasiveness ofP. australis australis, threats to native rare and endangered species continue, and large-scale herbicide campaigns are not only costly, but also represent threats to non-target species. We see implementation of biocontrol as the best hope for managing one of the most problematic invasive plants in North America. After extensive review, our petition to release two host specific stem miners was approved by The Technical Advisory Group for the Release of Biological Control Agents in the US and Canadian federal authorities.
The politics of accountability
Authors: Ozga Jenny
Published: December 2019

This paper draws on recent research in Europe and England to discuss the politics of accountability. It is suggested that, as policies in education are increasingly focused on delivering technical-managerial accountability, that is accountability understood as evidenced in international, national, institutional and individual comparative measures of performance, so the shifting power relations of system redesign supported by data use are concealed and suppressed. System redesign is promoted by ‘networked’ governance and the de-centred state, in institutional ‘freedom’ from bureaucracy, in the de-professionalisation of public sector workers, in the proliferation of managers, in the redefinition of citizens as consumers. The implications of such reforms for politics are profound, as political legitimacy is a fundamental precondition for the sustainability of the welfare state and welfare state organizations are dependent on active political processes of producing legitimacy and political accountability.
Using technology to bring online convenience to offline shopping
Authors: Dekimpe Marnik G. , Geyskens Inge , Gielens Katrijn
Published: December 2019

In spite of the growing success of the online channel, brick-and-mortar stores can continue to play a pivotal role in consumers’ shopper journey. We discuss how technology can be a key enabler by allowing physical stores to offer the level of convenience consumers have become used to in the online channel.
Observed discordance between outcomes reported by acromegaly patients and their treating endocrinology medical provider
Authors: Geer Eliza B. , Sisco Jill , Adelman Daphne T. , Ludlam William H. , Haviv Asi , Gelbaum Dana , Liu Shuqian , Mathias Susan D. , Shi Lizheng
Published: December 2019

Background

Acromegaly patients, even those with IGF-1 values within the normal range receiving somatostatin receptor ligands (SRLs), often suffer from significant symptoms. It is not known to what extent patients’ medical providers are aware of the frequency and severity of acromegaly symptoms or level of treatment satisfaction with SRLs. This study sought to examine the concordance between outcomes reported by acromegaly patients treated with long-acting SRLs and those perceived by their medical provider.

Methods

US acromegaly patients on a stable dose of SRL and seen by their medical provider in the past year completed an online survey which included the Acro-TSQ. Their medical providers were interviewed about the perception of their patient’s symptoms, level of control, and general health, and completed relevant portions of the Acro-TSQ. Concordance between patient and medical provider reported data was examined.

Results

Medical providers reported that their patients experienced acromegaly symptoms on a regular basis, however, there was poor agreement between patients and medical providers on the frequency, severity, and pattern of symptoms, as well as on the severity of injection site reactions and multiple domains of the Acro-TSQ, with patients generally reporting symptoms and injection site reactions more often and with higher severity than medical providers.

Conclusions

Medical providers were aware that their patients who were receiving a stable dose of SRL regularly experienced acromegaly symptoms. Addressing discordance in patient- and medical provider-reported frequency and severity of acromegaly symptoms and injection site reactions by facilitating better communication may improve care of acromegaly patients.
Re-assessment of phosphorus availability in fens with varying contents of iron and calcium
Authors: Kooijman A. M. , Cusell C. , Hedenäs L. , Lamers L. P. M. , Mettrop I. S. , Neijmeijer T.
Published: December 2019

Aim

To further unravel P availability in mineral-rich fens, and test whether high Fe in the soil would lead to low P availability to the vegetation.

Methods

Mesotrophic fens were selected over gradients in Ca and Fe in central Sweden and the Netherlands, to study characteristics of vegetation, pore water and peat soil, including inorganic and organic forms of P, Fe and Al.

Results

Soil Fe was more important than region or soil Ca, and P availability to the vegetation increased from Fe-poor to Fe-rich fens. Contrary to expectations, precipitation of iron phosphates played a minor role in Fe-rich fens. Fe-rich fens were P-rich for three reasons: (1) high P sorption capacity, (2) relatively weak sorption to Fe-OM complexes and (3) high amounts of sorbed organic P, which probably consists of labile P. Also, nonmycorrhizal wetland plants probably especially take up weakly sorbed (organic) P. However, high P did not lead to high biomass or low plant diversity. Fe-rich fens were limited by other nutrients, and high P may help protect the vegetation against Fe-toxicity.

Conclusions

Fe-poor fens are P-poor, irrespective of Ca, and Fe-rich fens P-rich even under mesotrophic conditions. However, high P itself does not endanger Fe-rich fens.
Quantifying citrate-enhanced phosphate root uptake using microdialysis
Authors: McKay Fletcher D. M. , Shaw R. , Sánchez-Rodríguez A. R. , Daly K. R. , van Veelen A. , Jones D. L. , Roose T.
Published: December 2019

Aims

Organic acid exudation by plant roots is thought to promote phosphate (P) solubilisation and bioavailability in soils with poorly available nutrients. Here we describe a new combined experimental (microdialysis) and modelling approach to quantify citrate-enhanced P desorption and its importance for root P uptake.

Methods

To mimic the rhizosphere, microdialysis probes were placed in soil and perfused with citrate solutions (0.1, 1.0 and 10 mM) and the amount of P recovered from soil used to quantify rhizosphere P availability. Parameters in a mathematical model describing probe P uptake, citrate exudation, P movement and citrate-enhanced desorption were fit to the experimental data. These parameters were used in a model of a root which exuded citrate and absorbed P. The importance of soil citrate-P mobilisation for root P uptake was then quantified using this model.

Results

A plant needs to exude citrate at a rate of 0.73 μmol cm−1 of root h−1 to see a significant increase in P absorption. Microdialysis probes with citrate in the perfusate were shown to absorb similar quantities of P to an exuding root.

Conclusion

A single root exuding citrate at a typical rate (4.3 × 10−5 μmol m−1 of root h−1) did not contribute significantly to P uptake. Microdialysis probes show promise for measuring rhizosphere processes when calibration experiments and mathematical modelling are used to decouple microdialysis and rhizosphere mechanisms.
Estimating a combined Moho model for marine areas via satellite altimetric - gravity and seismic crustal models
Authors: Abrehdary Majid , Sjöberg Lars E.
Published: December 2019

Isostasy is a key concept in geoscience in interpreting the state of mass balance between the Earth’s lithosphere and viscous asthenosphere. A more satisfactory test of isostasy is to determine the depth to and density contrast between crust and mantle at the Moho discontinuity (Moho). Generally, the Moho can be mapped by seismic information, but the limited coverage of such data over large portions of the world (in particular at seas) and economic considerations make a combined gravimetric-seismic method a more realistic approach. The determination of a high-resolution of the Moho constituents for marine areas requires the combination of gravimetric and seismic data to diminish substantially the seismic data gaps. In this study, we estimate the Moho constituents globally for ocean regions to a resolution of 1° × 1° by applying the Vening Meinesz-Moritz method from gravimetric data and combine it with estimates derived from seismic data in a new model named COMHV19. The data files of GMG14 satellite altimetry-derived marine gravity field, the Earth2014 Earth topographic/bathymetric model, CRUST1.0 and CRUST19 crustal seismic models are used in a least-squares procedure. The numerical computations show that the Moho depths range from 7.3 km (in Kolbeinsey Ridge) to 52.6 km (in the Gulf of Bothnia) with a global average of 16.4 km and standard deviation of the order of 7.5 km. Estimated Moho density contrasts vary between 20 kg m-3 (north of Iceland) to 570 kg m-3 (in Baltic Sea), with a global average of 313.7 kg m-3 and standard deviation of the order of 77.4 kg m-3. When comparing the computed Moho depths with current knowledge of crustal structure, they are generally found to be in good agreement with other crustal models. However, in certain regions, such as oceanic spreading ridges and hot spots, we generally obtain thinner crust than proposed by other models, which is likely the result of improvements in the new model. We also see evidence for thickening of oceanic crust with increasing age. Hence, the new combined Moho model is able to image rather reliable information in most of the oceanic areas, in particular in ocean ridges, which are important features in ocean basins.
Assessing the Performance of EUHFORIA Modeling the Background Solar Wind
Authors: Hinterreiter Jürgen , Magdalenic Jasmina , Temmer Manuela , Verbeke Christine , Jebaraj Immanuel Christopher , Samara Evangelia , Asvestari Eleanna , Poedts Stefaan , Pomoell Jens , Kilpua Emilia , Rodriguez Luciano , Scolini Camilla , Isavnin Alexey
Published: December 2019

In order to address the growing need for more accurate space-weather predictions, a new model named (EUropean Heliospheric FORecasting Information Asset) was recently developed. We present the first results of the performance assessment for the solar-wind modeling with and identify possible limitations of its present setup. Using the basic 1.0.4 model setup with the default input parameters, we modeled background solar wind (no coronal mass ejections) and compared the obtained results with Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE) in-situ measurements. For the purposes of statistical study we developed a technique of combining daily runs into continuous time series. The combined time series were derived for the years 2008 (low solar activity) and 2012 (high solar activity), from which in-situ speed and density profiles were extracted. We find for the low-activity phase a better match between model results and observations compared to the high-activity time interval considered. The quality of the modeled solar-wind parameters is found to be rather variable. Therefore, to better understand the results obtained we also qualitatively inspected characteristics of coronal holes, i.e. the sources of the studied fast streams. We discuss how different characteristics of the coronal holes and input parameters to influence the modeled fast solar wind, and suggest possibilities for the improvement of the model.
A novel method for preparing α-LiFeO2 nanorods for high-performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Hu Youzuo , Liu Xingquan
Published: December 2019

One-dimensional (1D) α-LiFeO2nanorods are successfully prepared via a low-temperature solid-state reaction from α-FeOOH nanorods synthesized by hydrothermal process and used as cathode materials in lithium-ion batteries. As cathode material for lithium-ion batteries, the nanorods can achieve a high initial specific capacity of 165.85 mAh/g at 0.1 C for which a high capacity retention of 81.65% can still be obtained after 50 cycles. The excellent performance and cycling stability are attributed to the unique 1D nanostructure, which facilitates the rapid electron exchange and fast lithium-ion diffusion between electrolyte and cathode materials.
Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass as a Treatment for Barrett’s Esophagus after Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Felsenreich Daniel M. , Langer Felix B. , Bichler Christoph , Eilenberg Magdalena , Jedamzik Julia , Kristo Ivan , Vock Natalie , Gensthaler Lisa , Rabl Charlotte , Todoroff Alexander , Prager Gerhard
Published: December 2019

Background

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (SG) is the most frequently performed bariatric procedure today. While an increasing number of long-term studies report the occurrence of Barrett’s esophagus (BE) after SG, its treatment has not been studied, yet.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) as treatment for BE and reflux after SG.

Setting

University hospital setting, Austria

Methods

This multi-center study includes all patients (n = 10) that were converted to RYGB due to BE after SG in Austria. The mean interval between SG and RYGB was 42.7 months. The follow-up after RYGB in this study was 33.4 months. Gastroscopy, 24 h pH-metry, and manometry were performed and patients were asked to complete the BAROS and GIQLI questionnaires.

Results

Weight and BMI at the time of SG was 120.8 kg and 45.1 kg/m2. Eight patients (80.0%) went into remission of BE after the conversion to RYGB. Two patients had RYGB combined with hiatoplasty. The mean acid exposure time in 24 h decreased from 36.8 to 3.8% and the mean DeMeester score from 110.0 to 16.3. Patients scored 5.1 on average in the BAROS after conversion from SG to RYGB which denotes a very good outcome.

Conclusions

RYGB is an effective therapy for patients with BE and reflux after SG. Its outcomes in the current study were BE remission in the majority of cases as well as a decrease in reflux activity. Further studies with larger cohorts are necessary to confirm these findings.
Lack of Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase–Activating Polypeptide (PACAP) Disturbs Callus Formation
Authors: Józsa Gergő , Fülöp Balázs Dániel , Kovács László , Czibere Bernadett , Szegeczki Vince , Kiss Tamás , Hajdú Tibor , Tamás Andrea , Helyes Zsuzsanna , Zákány Róza , Reglődi Dóra , Juhász Tamás
Published: December 2019

Pituitary adenylate cyclase–activating polypeptide (PACAP) is a naturally secreted signaling peptide and has important regulatory roles in the differentiation of the central nervous system and its absence results in disorders in femur development. PACAP has an important function in prevention of oxidative stress or mechanical stress in chondrogenesis but little is known about its function in bone regeneration. A new callus formation model was set to investigate its role in bone remodeling. Fracturing was 5 mm distal from the proximal articular surface of the tibia and the depth was 0.5 mm. Reproducibility of callus formation was investigated with CT 3, 7, and 21 days after the operation. Absence of PACAP did not alter the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activation in PACAP KO healing process. In developing callus, the expression of collagen type I increased in wild-type (WT) and PACAP KO mice decreased to the end of healing process. Expression of the elements of BMP signaling was disturbed in the callus formation of PACAP KO mice, as bone morphogenic protein 4 (BMP4) and 6 showed an early reduction in bone regeneration. However, elevated Smad1 expression was demonstrated in PACAP KO mice. Our results indicate that PACAP KO mice show various signs of disturbed bone healing and suggest PACAP compensatory and fine tuning effects in proper bone regeneration.
Flood Hazard, Vulnerability and Risk Assessment for Different Land Use Classes Using a Flow Model
Authors: Baky Md Abdullah Al , Islam Muktarun , Paul Supria
Published: December 2019

This study is concerned with flood risk that can be assessed by integrating GIS, hydraulic modelling and required field information. A critical point in flood risk assessment is that while flood hazard is the same for a given area in terms of intensity, the risk could be different depending on a set of conditions (flood vulnerability). Clearly, risk is a function of hazard and vulnerability. This study aims to introducing a new approach of assessing flood risk, which successfully addresses this above-mentioned critical issue. The flood risk was assessed from flood hazard and vulnerability indices. Two-dimensional flood flow simulation was performed with Delft3D model to compute floodplain inundation depths for hazard assessment. For the purpose of flood vulnerability assessment, elements at risk and flood damage functions were identified and assessed, respectively. Then, finally flood risk was assessed first by combining replacement values assessed for the elements and then using the depth–damage function. Applying this approach, the study finds that areas with different levels of flood risk do not always increase with the increase in return period of flood. However, inundated areas with different levels of flood depth always increase with the increase in return period of flood. The approach for flood risk assessment adopted in this study successfully addresses the critical point in flood risk study, where flood risk can be varied even after there is no change in flood hazard intensity.
Pain Catastrophizing, Fear of Pain, and Depression and Their Association with Female Sexual Pain
Authors: Burri Andrea , Hilpert Peter , Williams Frances
Published: December 2019

Introduction

Painful sexual intercourse or dyspareunia is a common complaint among women, affecting 12–21% of premenopausal women. Recent studies have begun to focus on the role of fear avoidance and pain catastrophizing (PC) in genital pain and have consistently highlighted the importance of psych-affective factors in sexual pain.

Aim

To establish the importance of PC, fear of pain, and depression for the development and maintenance of female sexual pain.

Methods

This longitudinal study was conducted in the United Kingdom to assess sexual pain at 2 different time points, in 2009 and 2013, in a convenience sample of N = 979 British women.

Main Outcome Measure

Well-validated questionnaires including the Pain Catastrophizing Scale, the Pain Anxiety Symptom Scale, and the Female Sexual Function Index (recent and lifelong version) were applied.

Results

Multilevel modeling showed a strong increase of short-lived sexual pain over the 4 years (π01 = –0.33; P < .001). According to the moderation analyses, only depression influenced the change in short-lived pain over the 4 years (π11 = 0.46; P = .016). Similarly, only depression turned out to be independently associated with sexual pain when entered into the multiple regression model, as women reporting higher depression levels also reported more sexual pain (P < 0.05).

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should be aware that the mechanisms influencing short-lived sexual pain and changes in sexual pain seem to be different from the more enduring psychological factors that lead to the development and maintenance of “chronic” sexual pain.

Strengths & Limitations

A very generic and unidimensional definition of sexual pain was used without information on pain frequency or intensity, and no information on the possible underlying (medical or psychological or both) causes was available. However, as far as we know this represents the first study to use repeated measures to assess how pain changes over a 4-year period and to explore the role of potential psychoaffective risk factors.

Conclusion

Among the variables studied, symptoms of depression seemed to be the only independent predictor of lifelong sexual pain, overriding potential influences of pain catastrophizing or fear of pain.
Updating the International Index of Erectile Function: Evaluation of a Large Clinical Data Set
Authors: Vickers Andrew J. , Tin Amy L. , Singh Karandeep , Dunn Rodney L. , Mulhall John
Published: December 2019

Introduction

The International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) is the predominant patient-reported outcomes instrument for assessing male sexual function. There are obvious problems with the use of the IIEF in the assessment of an individual patient, such as for men who use injections and men who do not engage in intercourse.

Aim

The aim of the current study is to redesign the erectile function domain of the IIEF (IIEF6) to more accurately assess the individual patient.

Methods

In an observational study of men undergoing treatment for prostate cancer at a tertiary care institution, including 24,732 questionnaires completed by 6,780 individuals, IIEF6 scores were compared for patients using and not using erectile aids. Men not engaging in sexual intercourse were asked to describe the reason.

Main Outcome Measure

The main outcome we were seeking was the IIEF6 scores.

Results

Mean scores before erectile aids items were added was 17.7 compared with predicted scores of 18.3 vs 16.7 if patients reported their function with vs without the use of aids. No intercourse was reported for 35% of surveys. Reasons given were lack of ability or confidence in 53%, lack of willing and available partner in 28%, “other” in 17% (including respondent’s or partner’s health issues, low libido, preference for nonpenetrative sex or for sex with men). Doubling the sum of the 3 nonintercourse IIEF6 questions had excellent properties (difference of 0.06, limits of agreement -3.10 to 3.22).

Clinical Implications

Erectile function instruments must include items about erectile aids. Men who report that they have not attempted intercourse should not be assumed to have erectile dysfunction, but should be asked the reason why. For men who report lack of opportunity or preference for intercourse, the score of the 3 nonintercourse IIEF6 questions should be doubled.

Strengths & Limitations

This is a large study of patients in a real-world setting. Although the study only includes radical prostatectomy patients, and although the study cohort is not fully representative of the US prostate cancer population as a whole, these issues would not affect the key findings.

Conclusion

The IIEF6 can be redesigned to better assess the individual patient.
Application of Thallium Isotopes
Authors: Owens Jeremy D.
Published: December 2019

Tracking initial ocean (de)oxygenation is critical to better constrain the coevolution of life and environment. Development of thallium isotopes has provided evidence to track the global manganese oxide burial which responds to early (de)oxygenation for short-term climate events. Modern oxic seawater thallium isotope values are recorded in organic-rich sediments deposited below an anoxic water column. An expansion of reducing conditions decrease manganese oxide burial and shifts the seawater thallium isotope composition more positive. Recent work documents that thallium isotopes are perturbed prior to carbon isotope excursions, suggesting ocean deoxygenation is a precursor for increased organic carbon burial. This Element provides an introduction to the application of thallium isotopes, case studies, and future directions.
δ13C values of wood and Charcoal Reveal Broad Isotopic ranges at the base of the Food Web
Authors: Philippsen Bente , Olsen Jesper , Sørensen Søren A , Måge Bjørnar
Published: December 2019

The aim of this study is to investigate the range, the degree of variability, and a possible time or species dependence of wood and charcoal δ13C values within one small study area. To achieve this, we used δ13C and14C determinations of more than 400 archaeological samples from a ca. 300 ha area in Denmark, spanning 5000 years and covering several different species. The δ13C values of the wood and charcoal range from −32.8‰ to −21.2‰. We found no time-dependence of wood and charcoal δ13C values, neither in general nor within one species. The mean δ13C of all wood samples is −28.5‰, while the means of individual species range from −30.6‰ to −26.3‰. The mean of all charcoal samples is −25.7‰, with the means of individual species ranging from −28.1‰ to −24.3‰. The wood δ13C values can be used to infer the possible range of plant δ13C values, which otherwise are not available. They imply that a high degree of variability can be expected at the base of the food chain. This is relevant for palaeodietary studies that rely on the measurement of baseline isotope values.
The Generation of Plate Tectonics From Grains to Global Scales: A Brief Review
Authors: Mulyukova Elvira , Bercovici David
Published: December 2019

The physics of rock deformation in the lithosphere governs the formation of tectonic plates, which are characterized by strong, broad plate interiors, separated by weak, localized plate boundaries. The size of mineral grains in particular controls rock strength and grain reduction can lead to shear localization and weakening in the strong ductile portion of the lithosphere. Grain damage theory describes the competition between grain growth and grain size reduction as a result of deformation, and the effect of grain size evolution on the rheology of lithospheric rocks. The self‐weakening feedback predicted by grain damage theory can explain the formation of mylonites, typically found in deep ductile lithospheric shear zones, which are characteristic of localized tectonic plate boundaries. The amplification of damage is most effective when minerallic phases, like olivine and pyroxene, are well mixed on the grain scale. Grain mixing theory predicts two coexisting deformation states of unmixed materials undergoing slow strain rate, and well‐mixed materials with large strain rate; this is in agreement with recent laboratory experiments, and is analogous to Earth's plate‐like state. A new theory for the role of dislocations in grain size evolution resolves the rapid timescale of dynamic recrystallization. In particular, a toy model for the competition between normal grain growth and dynamic recrystallization predicts oscillations in grain size with periods comparable to earthquake cycles and postseismic recovery, thus connecting plate boundary formation processes to the human timescale.
Latitudinal Variation of α‐Chapman Scale Height During Quiet and Disturbed Geomagnetic Conditions
Authors: Adebiyi S. J. , Adeniyi J.O. , Ikubanni S. O. , Adebesin B. O. , Adekoya B. J. , Joshua B. W.
Published: December 2019

Scale height is an important ionospheric parameter which determines the shape of the topside electron density profile. In this paper, the latitudinal variation of α‐Chapman scale height (Hm) is investigated using data obtained from four ground‐based ionosondes located in the African‐European longitudes. A Hm pattern reveals a marked dependence on seasons, latitudes, and magnetic activity. The daytime Hm peak magnitude decreases with increasing latitudes. Daytime Hm is higher relative to that of nighttime at low‐ and mid‐latitudes irrespective of the season. However, at high latitude, the opposite is observed in the solstice seasons and comparable magnitudes during equinoxes. Seasonally, Hm magnitude maximizes/minimizes in summer/winter at all latitudes considered – revealing hemispheric difference emanating from the opposite occurrence of winter and summer. Further, the difference in the magnitude of the summer‐winter Hm is most pronounced at high latitudes at all hours. However, at low latitude, magnitude of the difference between the nighttime summer‐winter values is insignificant. Hm also exhibits weak equinoctial asymmetry that reveals hemispheric difference. A strong positive linear relationship exists between Hm and a bottomside thickness parameter (B0) across all seasons and latitudes. However, Hm versus the total electron content, F2‐layer critical frequency (foF2), and peak height (hmF2) generally revealed a poor relationship and does not show any significant seasonal and latitudinal trends. The excellent Hm‐B0 relationship (r = 0.85–0.97) suggests a convenient method to develop an empirical model of Hm from a more easy‐to‐obtain B0 data regardless of the latitude.
Mid‐Infrared Optical Constants of Labradorite, a Triclinic Plagioclase Mineral
Authors: Ye Cheng , Rucks Melinda J. , Arnold Jessica A. , Glotch Timothy D.
Published: December 2019

Plagioclase feldspar is the most abundant rock‐forming mineral in the crust of the Earth, Moon, and Mars and is also an important component in some minor bodies in the Solar System. The distribution, abundance, and precise composition of plagioclase on planetary surfaces from remote sensing data are important measurements for evaluating changing conditions during magma evolution. Optical constants are critical input parameters in radiative transfer theory, which enables modeling of spectra for the extraction of mineral abundances and grain sizes from a remotely sensed spectrum. Mid‐infrared (MIR) optical constants of most triclinic rock‐forming minerals are not available due to the complexity associated with the derivation of optical constants of low‐symmetry minerals. In this work, we have calculated the MIR optical constants of a labradorite single crystal using dispersion theory and laboratory reflectance spectra at non‐normal incidence. The optical constants we derived here will assist in modeling spectra in the MIR region and quantifying mineral composition, particle size, and abundances from remote sensing data.
Importance of Cadmium Sulfides for Biogeochemical Cycling of Cd and Its Isotopes in Oxygen Deficient Zones—A Case Study of the Angola Basin
Authors: Guinoiseau D. , Galer S. J. G. , Abouchami W. , Frank M. , Achterberg E. P. , Haug G. H.
Published: December 2019

Understanding oceanic cadmium (Cd) cycling is paramount due to its micronutrient‐like behavior in seawater, which has been inferred from its similarity to phosphate (PO4) cycling. Cadmium concentrations follow a nutrient‐like consumption‐regeneration cycle in the top of the water column and are mainly controlled by water mass mixing and circulation in the deep ocean. However, an additional scavenging mechanism through cadmium sulfide (CdS) precipitates, occurring within sinking biogenic particles in oxygen deficient zones (ODZ), has been proposed. In this study, we report Cd stable isotope and concentration data for seven vertical seawater profiles sampled during GEOTRACES cruise GA08 in the northern Cape and Angola Basins, which feature a significant ODZ along their eastern margins. Outside the ODZ, Cd cycling is similar to that previously reported for the South Atlantic. While water mass mixing largely controls deep ocean Cd isotope signatures, Cd isotope fractionation in surface waters can be modeled as an open system at steady state buffered by organic ligand complexation. In the ODZ, stronger Cd depletion relative to PO4 is associated with a shift in δ114Cd toward heavier values, which is indicative of CdS precipitation. Our interpretation is supported by experimental CdS precipitation data and a size‐resolved particle model involving bacterial sulfate reduction as a precursor of CdS. Our estimates of the CdS flux to the seafloor (107 to 109 mol/yr) indicate that CdS precipitation is a significant process of Cd removal and constitutes a nonnegligible Cd sink that needs to be better quantified by Cd isotope analyses of marine sediments.
Sensitivity of Deep Ocean Mixing to Local Internal Tide Breaking and Mixing Efficiency
Authors: Cimoli Laura , Caulfield Colm‐cille P. , Johnson Helen L. , Marshall David P. , Mashayek Ali , Naveira Garabato Alberto C. , Vic Clément
Published: December 2019

There have been recent advancements in the quantification of parameters describing the proportion of internal tide energy being dissipated locally and the “efficiency” of diapycnal mixing, that is, the ratio of the diapycnal mixing rate to the kinetic energy dissipation rate. We show that oceanic tidal mixing is nontrivially sensitive to the covariation of these parameters. Varying these parameters one at a time can lead to significant errors in the patterns of diapycnal mixing‐driven upwelling and downwelling and to the over and under estimation of mixing in such a way that the net rate of globally integrated deep circulation appears reasonable. However, the local rates of upwelling and downwelling in the deep ocean are significantly different when both parameters are allowed to covary and be spatially variable. These findings have important implications for the representation of oceanic heat, carbon, nutrients, and other tracer budgets in general circulation models.
Monopole Mode of Precipitation in East Asia Modulated by the South China Sea Over the Last Four Centuries
Authors: Shi Feng , Goosse Hugues , Klein François , Zhao Sen , Liu Ting , Guo Zhengtang
Published: December 2019

Precipitation in East Asia affects one quarter of the global population. However, the mechanisms governing precipitation changes at the century scale remain unclear. Reconstructions of warm season precipitation over the last 531 years show that the dominant mode of variability is a monopole covering most of China. However, this mode is mostly absent from Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 results. In contrast, experiments using data assimilation reproduce this monopole mode well. Results show that sea surface temperature in the South China Sea is a major driver of the monopole mode of precipitation via a Gill‐type response. Warm sea surface temperatures induce a distinct baroclinic structure over the central part of eastern China comprising a low‐pressure cyclone in the lower troposphere and a high‐pressure anticyclone in the upper troposphere with rising airflow, resulting in water vapor convergence and increased precipitation in East Asia.
Mechanism for Increasing Tropical Rainfall Unevenness With Global Warming
Authors: Zhang Yi , Fueglistaler Stephan
Published: December 2019

Global climate models predict that tropical rainfall will be distributed more unevenly with global warming; that is, dry regions or months will get drier and wet regions or months will get wetter. Previous mechanisms such as “dry‐get‐drier, wet‐get‐wetter”; “rich‐get‐richer”; or “upped‐ante” focus on the spatial pattern of rainfall changes rather than the changes in probability distribution. Here, we present a quantitative explanation of the warming‐induced probability distribution change of rainfall: Subcloud moist static energy (MSE) gradients are amplified by Clausius‐Clapeyron relationship given roughly uniform warming and constant relative humidity. Therefore, the present‐day wet regions will become more competitive for convection in a warmer world. Though changes in the atmospheric circulation pattern can enhance rainfall in one place and suppress rainfall in another, our results show that the total effect should be a decrease in the area of active convection even with uniform warming.
Author Correction: Interplay of fibroblasts with anaplastic tumor cells promotes follicular thyroid cancer progression
Authors: Fozzatti Laura , Alamino Vanina Alejandra , Park Sunmi , Giusiano Lucila , Volpini Ximena , Zhao Li , Stempin Cinthia Carolina , Donadio Ana Carolina , Cheng Sheue-yann , Pellizas Claudia Gabriela
Published: December 2019

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Controlling refractive index of transformation-optics devices via optical path rescaling
Authors: Eskandari Hossein , Tyc Tomáš
Published: December 2019

We present a general method of designing optical devices based on optical conformal mapping and rescaling the optical path along a given bunch of rays. It provides devices with the same functionality as those based purely on conformal mapping, but enables to manipulate the refractive index to a great extent—for instance, eliminate superluminal regions of space as well as reduce the refractive index in other regions significantly. The method is illustrated in two examples, a waveguide coupler and a plasmonic bump cloak, and numerical simulations confirm its functionality.
Decreased electrocortical temporal complexity distinguishes sleep from wakefulness
Authors: González Joaquín , Cavelli Matias , Mondino Alejandra , Pascovich Claudia , Castro-Zaballa Santiago , Torterolo Pablo , Rubido Nicolás
Published: December 2019

In most mammals, the sleep-wake cycle is constituted by three behavioral states: wakefulness (W), non-REM (NREM) sleep, and REM sleep. These states are associated with drastic changes in cognitive capacities, mostly determined by the function of the thalamo-cortical system. The intra-cranial electroencephalogram or electocorticogram (ECoG), is an important tool for measuring the changes in the thalamo-cortical activity during W and sleep. In the present study we analyzed broad-band ECoG recordings of the rat by means of a time-series complexity measure that is easy to implement and robust to noise: the Permutation Entropy (PeEn). We found that PeEn is maximal during W and decreases during sleep. These results bring to light the different thalamo-cortical dynamics emerging during sleep-wake states, which are associated with the well-known spectral changes that occur when passing from W to sleep. Moreover, the PeEn analysis allows us to determine behavioral states independently of the electrodes’ cortical location, which points to an underlying global pattern in the signal that differs among the cycle states that is missed by classical methods. Consequently, our data suggest that PeEn analysis of a single EEG channel could allow for cheap, easy, and efficient sleep monitoring.
The consequences of Brugia malayi infection on the flight and energy resources of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes
Authors: Somerville Alastair G. T. , Gleave Katherine , Jones Christopher M. , Reimer Lisa J.
Published: December 2019

Evidence from experimental infection studies has shown that infected mosquitoes exhibit altered host-seeking behaviours, with suppression and activation of behaviours dependent on the parasite’s development stage. The mechanisms are poorly characterised; however, infections can impact mosquito energy reserves, thereby influencing key life-history traits and behaviours. In addition, filarial infection is likely detrimental to flight due to damage caused by developing worms. This study aimed to evaluate the impacts of Brugia malayi infection on Aedes aegypti flight parameters: distance, average speed, maximum speed and number of flight bursts, using a tethered flight mill. In addition, we explored whether differences in flight capacity may be due to the effect of infection on glycogen and lipid reserves. Infection with filarial worms significantly reduced flight distance but increased the number of flight bursts. Exposure to microfilaermic blood led to a significant decrease in average and maximum flight speeds even in the absence of an established infection. Mosquitoes fed on microfilaraemic blood showed reduced levels of glycogen (−37.9%) and lipids (−49.7%) compared to controls at nine days post-exposure. However, a one-hour period of flight activity caused an increase in lipid content for both infected and control mosquitoes. Consequential flight incapacitation may serve in explaining the heterogeneous distribution of lymphatic filariasis.
Resveratrol inhibits IL-33–mediated mast cell activation by targeting the MK2/3–PI3K/Akt axis
Authors: Nakajima Shotaro , Ishimaru Kayoko , Kobayashi Anna , Yu Guannan , Nakamura Yuki , Oh-oka Kyoko , Suzuki-Inoue Katsue , Kono Koji , Nakao Atsuhito
Published: December 2019

Interleukin-33 (IL-33)/ST2–mediated mast cell activation plays important roles in the pathophysiology of allergic diseases. Hence, pharmacologically targeting the IL-33/ST2 pathway in mast cells could help to treat such diseases. We found that resveratrol inhibits IL-33/ST2–mediated mast cell activation. Resveratrol suppressed IL-33–induced IL-6, IL-13, and TNF-α production in mouse bone marrow–derived mast cells (BMMCs), mouse fetal skin–derived mast cells, and human basophils. Resveratrol also attenuated cytokine expression induced by intranasal administration of IL-33 in mouse lung. IL-33–mediated cytokine production in mast cells requires activation of the NF-κB and MAPK p38–MAPK-activated protein kinase-2/3 (MK2/3)–PI3K/Akt pathway, and resveratrol clearly inhibited IL-33–induced activation of the MK2/3–PI3K/Akt pathway, but not the NF-κB pathway, without affecting p38 in BMMCs. Importantly, resveratrol inhibited the kinase activity of MK2, and an MK2/3 inhibitor recapitulated the suppressive effects of resveratrol. Resveratrol and an MK2/3 inhibitor also inhibited IgE-dependent degranulation and cytokine production in BMMCs, concomitant with suppression of the MK2/3–PI3K/Akt pathway. These findings indicate that resveratrol inhibits both IL-33/ST2–mediated and IgE-dependent mast cell activation principally by targeting the MK2/3–PI3K/Akt axis downstream of p38. Thus, resveratrol may have potential for the prevention and treatment of broad ranges of allergic diseases.
Phase-Field Simulation of Grain Boundary Evolution In Microstructures Containing Second-Phase Particles with Heterogeneous Thermal Properties
Authors: Flint T. F. , Sun Y. L. , Xiong Q. , Smith M. C. , Francis J. A.
Published: December 2019

Understanding the interaction between complex thermal fields and metallic structures at the meso-scale is crucial for the prediction of microstructural evolution during thermomechanical processing. The competitive growth of crystal grains, driven by thermodynamic forces at the grain boundaries, is one of the most fundamental phenomena in metallurgy and solid state physics. The presence of second phase particles, which act as pinning sites for boundaries, drastically alters the coarsening behaviour of the system; particularly when considering that these particles have different thermal properties to the primary phase. In this work a multi-phase field model, incorporating thermal gradient and curvature driving forces, is used to predict grain growth in a Ti6Al4V alloy system with second phase particle inclusions representative of oxide and carbide precipitates. The multi-phase field framework is fully coupled to the heat equation. The incorporation of the thermal gradient driving force enables the detailed behaviour of the grain boundaries around the particles to be predicted. It is shown that the inclusion of particles with a lower thermal conductivity has a significant influence on the coarsening behaviour of various systems of grains, due to the combined effects of thermal shielding and the generation of thermal gradient driving forces between the boundaries and pinning particles.