bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seismic constraints on rock damaging related to a failing mountain peak: the Hochvogel, Allgäu
Authors: Dietze M. , Krautblatter M. , Illien L. , Hovius N.
Published: November 2020

Large rock slope failures play a pivotal role in long‐term landscape evolution and are a major concern in land use planning and hazard aspects. While the failure phase and the time immediately prior to failure are increasingly well studied, the nature of the preparation phase remains enigmatic. This knowledge gap is due, to a large degree, to difficulties associated with instrumenting high mountain terrain and the local nature of classic monitoring methods, which does not allow integral observation of large rock volumes. Here, we analyse data from a small network of up to seven seismic sensors installed during July–October 2018 (with 43 days of data loss) at the summit of the Hochvogel, a 2592 m high Alpine peak. We develop proxy time series indicative of cyclic and progressive changes of the summit. Modal analysis, horizontal‐to‐vertical spectral ratio data and end‐member modelling analysis reveal diurnal cycles of increasing and decreasing coupling stiffness of a 260,000 m3 large, instable rock volume, due to thermal forcing. Relative seismic wave velocity changes also indicate diurnal accumulation and release of stress within the rock mass. At longer time scales, there is a systematic superimposed pattern of stress increased over multiple days and episodic stress release within a few days, expressed in an increased emission of short seismic pulses indicative of rock cracking. Our data provide essential first order information on the development of large‐scale slope instabilities towards catastrophic failure. © 2020 The Authors. Earth Surface Processes and Landforms published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Carbon Pricing in Wholesale Electricity Markets—Options for Fossil‐Fuel Generators
Authors: Russo Thomas N. , Gross Jack
Published: November 2020

On October 15, 2020, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) announced in a proposed policy statement that it had jurisdiction over carbon pricing mechanisms within the wholesale electricity markets. In that same policy statement, FERC also confirmed it had the authority to approve such rules if brought forward by regional transmission organizations (RTOs) and independent system operators (ISOs).
Infrastructure Investment Alternatives: Competitive and Nontraditional
Authors: DeCotis Paul A.
Published: November 2020

As the penetration of distributed energy resources (DERs) proliferates, regulatory authorities across the country are viewing DERs as viable alternatives to utility investment in generation and transmission and distribution (T&D) infrastructure. Solar, wind, geothermal, demand response, battery storage, and other technologies are being shown to relieve local load constraints and to meet growing demands at competitive prices. Consideration of such market alternatives provides opportunities for both energy service companies and developers to compete to meet traditional utility needs. While most market opportunities being considered are to meet electricity needs, market alternatives are also being considered for gas utilities where gas infrastructure is constrained or new pipeline moratoriums are in place limiting load growth.
Multiple lines of chemotherapy for patients with high‐grade ovarian cancer: Predictors for response and effect on survival
Authors: Kessous Roy , Wissing Michel D. , Laskov Ido , Abitbol Jeremie , Bitharas Joanna , Agnihotram Venkata R. , Yasmeen Amber , Salvador Shannon , Lau Susie , Gotlieb Walter H.
Published: November 2020

Guidelines for the treatment of tubo‐ovarian cancer patients beyond third line are lacking. We aimed to evaluate the effect of response in each line on patient's outcome as well as identify variables that predict response for additional line of chemotherapy. A cohort study was performed including all patients with advanced high‐grade ovarian cancer. Survival analysis was performed using Kaplan‐Meier curves and log‐rank tests. Odds ratios and hazard ratios were calculated using multilevel, mixed‐effects logistic regression and Cox regression, adjusting for repeated measures within individual patients. Two‐hundred thirty‐eight patients were included and underwent up to 10 lines of chemotherapy. The median progression‐free survival was 15.6 and overall survival (OS) was 55.6 months. Response rates dropped with each additional line and by line 5, most patients (61%) became refractory and only 16% had any type of response (complete 4% or partial 12%). By line 2, whether a patient had partial disease (PR), stable disease (SD) or progressive disease (PD) did not have an effect on the OS. From line 2, whether a patient had PR, SD or PD did not have an effect on chemotherapy‐free interval. Number of previous lines and time from previous line were the only variables that significantly correlated with both outcome of patients and response to the next line. In conclusion, time interval from the previous line of chemotherapy is the major clinical factor that predicts beneficial effect of another line of treatment in patients with ovarian cancer.
Constitutive low expression of antiviral effectors sensitizes melanoma cells to a novel oncolytic virus
Authors: Dellac Sarah , Ben‐Dov Hamutal , Raanan Ayala , Saleem Hanna , Zamostiano Rachel , Semyatich Rinat , Lavi Sara , Witz Isaac P. , Bacharach Eran , Ehrlich Marcelo
Published: November 2020

STAT1 is a critical effector and a target gene of interferon (IFN) signaling, and thus a central mediator of antiviral responses. As both a mediator and a target of IFN signals, STAT1 expression reports on, and determines IFN activity. Gene expression analyses of melanoma patient samples revealed varied levels of STAT1 expression, which highly correlated with expression of >700 genes. The ability of oncolytic viruses to exploit tumor‐induced defects to antiviral responses suggests that oncolytic viruses may efficiently target a subset of melanomas, yet these should be defined. We modeled this scenario with murine B16F10 melanomas, immortalized skin fibroblasts as controls and a novel oncolytic virus, EHDV‐TAU. In B16F10 cells, constitutive low expression of STAT1 and its target genes, which included intracellular pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), correlated with their inability to mount IFN‐based antiviral responses upon EHDV‐TAU challenge, and with potency of EHDV‐TAU‐induced oncolysis. This underexpression of interferon stimulated genes (ISGs) and PRRs, and the inability of EHDV‐TAU to induce their expression, were reversed by epigenetic modifiers, suggesting epigenetic silencing as a basis for their underexpression. Despite their inability to mount IFN/STAT‐based responses upon viral infection, EHDV‐TAU infected B16F10 cells secreted immune‐stimulatory chemokines. Accordingly, in vivo, EHDV‐TAU enhanced intratumoral infiltration of cytotoxic T‐cells and reduced growth of local and distant tumors. We propose that “STAT1 signatures” should guide melanoma virotherapy treatments, and that oncolytic viruses such as EHDV‐TAU have the potential to exploit the cellular context of low‐STAT1 tumors.
Optimal deep belief network with opposition‐based hybrid grasshopper and honeybee optimization algorithm for lung cancer classification: A DBNGHHB approach
Authors: Chilakala Lokanath Reddy , Kishore Gattim Naveen
Published: November 2020

In this manuscript, a new approach using deep belief network (DBN) along opposition‐based hybrid grasshopper and honey bee optimization algorithm for lung cancer classification is proposed. Chest computed tomography (CT) is commonly used to diagnosis the lung tumors. Initially, the image quality is improved by preprocessing techniques, and then the features like texture, color and shape are extracted. Several functions have been originating from the second order first gray level statistics like modified angles, high‐order algebraic time invariant, Gaussian defining properties and new spectral power metrics. Recently, a local binary pattern geometric characteristic descriptor has been demonstrated in the extraction and classification of pulmonary nodules. Furthermore, some functionality is stripped away for comparison purposes. Dimension reduction is significant for the implementation of algorithms in machine learning. The other special approaches can be implemented to determine the functionalities due to vast set of features. To remove the unused and obsolete features between the feature selection approaches, the multivariate approach like local tangent space alignment is used. Finally, DBN is used to categorize pulmonary CT images as malignant or benign, and is calibrated to the detection of lung cancer classification by the opposition‐based hybrid grasshopper and honey bee optimization algorithm. The Lung Image Database Consortium including Image Resources Initiative database are analyzed the network services, and the experimental results shows that the DBN network represents 97.52% accuracy, 96% sensitivity and 94.58% specificity.
Estimation of evapotranspiration for paddy under alternate wetting and drying irrigation practice*
Authors: Shekhar Shashank , Tamilarasan R. , Mailapalli Damodhara Rao , Raghuwanshi Narendra Singh
Published: November 2020

Crop evapotranspiration (ETC) of rice under an alternate wetting and drying (AWD) irrigation practice may be different from conventional (CON) irrigation methods due to the drying (water stress) phase. The focus of this study was to identify a suitable approach for estimating ETC for a rice crop under AWD practice. Field lysimeters were used for estimating daily ETC under AWD and CON practices during monsoon and non‐monsoon seasons. Lysimeter‐based evapotranspiration (ETC_Lys) was compared with that resulting from the product of reference evapotranspiration (FAO‐56 Penman–Monteith equation), crop coefficient (FAO tabulated values‐KC_Tab and FAO equation‐KC_Eqn) and soil water stress coefficient (linear equation‐KS_Lin; FAO equation‐KS_FAO; logarithmic equation‐KS_Log). The KC_Eqn and KS_FAO methods were found to be better estimates for KC and KS, respectively, for AWD practice. The mean KC in initial, mid and late season for AWD were found to be very close to CON practice. The KS was observed to vary from 1 to 0.15 for AWD. Overall, AWD irrigation practice saved 10–20% irrigation water with about 2% reduction in grain yield and 13% reduction in ETC. The reduction in ETC indicated that KS must be considered when calculating the ETC in rice under AWD irrigation practice.
Inhibitor binding to mutants of protein kinase A with GGGxxG and GxGxxA glycine‐rich loop motifs
Authors: Alam Kazi A. , Gani Osman A. S. B. M. , Engh Richard A.
Published: November 2020

The conserved GxGxxG motif of protein kinases forms a beta turn at the tip of the flexible glycine‐rich loop and creates much of the ATP pocket binding surface. Notable exceptions to this sequence include GGGxxG in ABL kinase and GxGxxA in protein kinase C isoforms. We constructed the corresponding mutants of PKA, T51G, and G55A, and tested quinazoline inhibitors that were designed to bind via glycine‐rich loop interactions, testing also staurosporine for comparison. The quinazoline inhibitors have significantly reduced binding strengths in both mutants. In striking contrast to these results, the binding of the “pan‐kinome” inhibitor staurosporine is strengthened in the mutants. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) shows that the tightened binding of staurosporine arises from increased kon rates, changes not offset by more moderately increased koff rates. The SPR results fit best to a two step binding process for staurosporine in wild type PKA, but not the mutants.
Performance Comparison of Compressed Sensing Algorithms for Accelerating T1ρ Mapping of Human Brain
Authors: Menon Rajiv G. , Zibetti Marcelo V.W. , Jain Rajan , Ge Yulin , Regatte Ravinder R.
Published: November 2020

Background

3D‐T1ρ mapping is useful to quantify various neurologic disorders, but data are currently time‐consuming to acquire.

Purpose

To compare the performance of five compressed sensing (CS) algorithms—spatiotemporal finite differences (STFD), exponential dictionary (EXP), 3D‐wavelet transform (WAV), low‐rank (LOW) and low‐rank plus sparse model with spatial finite differences (L + S SFD)—for 3D‐T1ρ mapping of the human brain with acceleration factors (AFs) of 2, 5, and 10.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

Eight healthy volunteers underwent T1ρ imaging of the whole brain.

Field Strength/Sequence

The sequence was fully sampled 3D Cartesian ultrafast gradient echo sequence with a customized T1ρ preparation module on a clinical 3T scanner.

Assessment

The fully sampled data was undersampled by factors of 2, 5, and 10 and reconstructed with the five CS algorithms. Image reconstruction quality was evaluated and compared to the SENSE reconstruction of the fully sampled data (reference) and T1ρ estimation errors were assessed as a function of AF.

Statistical Tests

Normalized root mean squared errors (nRMSE) and median normalized absolute deviation (MNAD) errors were calculated to compare image reconstruction errors and T1ρ estimation errors, respectively. Linear regression plots, Bland–Altman plots, and Pearson correlation coefficients (CC) are shown.

Results

For image reconstruction quality, at AF = 2, EXP transforms had the lowest mRMSE (1.56%). At higher AF values, STFD performed better, with the smallest errors (3.16% at AF = 5, 4.32% at AF = 10). For whole‐brain quantitative T1ρ mapping, at AF = 2, EXP performed best (MNAD error = 1.62%). At higher AF values (AF = 5, 10), the STFD technique had the least errors (2.96% at AF = 5, 4.24% at AF = 10) and the smallest variance from the reference T1ρ estimates.

Data Conclusion

This study demonstrates the use of different CS algorithms that may be useful in reducing the scan time required to perform volumetric T1ρ mapping of the brain.

Level of Evidence

2.

Technical Efficacy Stage

1.
An intelligent technique for optimal power quality reinforcement in a grid‐connected HRES system: EVORFA technique
Authors: Goud B. Srikanth , Rao B. Loveswara , Reddy Ch. Rami
Published: November 2020

This manuscript proposes the optimal power quality reinforcement in grid‐connected hybrid renewable energy sources like solar photovoltaic, wind turbine, battery storage using an intelligent approach. The proposed hybrid approach is the consolidation of Egyptian vulture optimization algorithm (EVOA) and random forest algorithm (RFA); hence, it is known as EVORFA technique. The major objective of this research is voltage stabilizing, power loss reduction, extenuating harmonic distortion. EVOA is mainly used to the offline way to differentiate the perfect combination and forms the dataset of proportional integral gain parameters; load current, DC‐link voltage, and voltage sources are based on reduced error objective function. In EVOA, multiple parameters are considered that is identified to the power quality (PQ) issues. The RFA predicts most optimal control signal with minimum error based on the accomplished dataset. The proposed EVORFA approach is executed in MATLAB/Simulink work site. The EVORFA approach performance is carried out in two modes, that is, simultaneous PQ reinforcement and RES power injection PRES > 0 and PQ reinforcement (PRES = 0). By then the experimental results are compared to the existing methods like gravitational search algorithm (GSA) and RFA.
Modeling and performance analysis of folded graphene nanoribbon interconnect
Authors: Das Debaprasad
Published: November 2020

In this paper, we have modeled the folded graphene nanoribbon (FGNR) interconnect and analyzed the performance for nanometer technology nodes. The mean free path is modeled as a function of GNR width and Fermi energy. The RLC equivalent circuit is modeled further for analyzing delay and RF response. The performance of FGNR is compared to that of multi‐layer horizontal graphene nanoribbon (ML‐HGNR) and multi‐layer vertical graphene nanoribbon (ML‐VGNR) interconnects. Our analysis shows that proposed FGNR interconnect with fully diffusive edges can outperform both the ML‐HGNR and ML‐VGNR interconnects as well as the traditional Cu interconnects.
A 20‐Gbps Beam‐Steered Infrared Wireless Link Enabled by a Passively Field‐Programmable Metasurface
Authors: Huang Jianou , Li Chao , Lei Yu , Yang Ling , Xiang Yuanjiang , Curto Alberto G. , Li Zilun , Guo Lei , Cao Zizheng , Hao Yue , Koonen Antonius Marcellus Jozef
Published: November 2020

Beam steering is one of the main challenges in energy‐efficient and high‐speed infrared light communication. To date, active beam‐steering schemes based on a spatial light modulator (SLM) or micro‐electrical mechanical system (MEMS) mirror, as well as the passive ones based on diffractive gratings, are demonstrated for infrared light communication. Here, for the first time to the authors' knowledge, an infrared beam is steered by 35° on one side empowered by a passively field‐programmable metasurface. By combining the centralized control of wavelength and polarization, a remote passive metasurface can steer the infrared beam in a remote access point. The proposed system has the scalability to support multiple beams, flexibility to steer the beam, high optical efficiency, simple and cheap devices on remote sides, and centralized control (low maintenance cost), while it avoids disadvantages such as grating loss, a small coverage area, and a bulky size. Based on the proposed beam‐steering technology, a proof‐of‐concept experiment system with a data rate of 20 Gbps is also demonstrated.
Ultra‐Stretchable, Self‐Healing, Conductive, and Transparent PAA/DES Ionic Gel
Authors: Wang Jiake , Ma Zhongzheng , Wang Yan , Shao Jingwen , Yan Lifeng
Published: November 2020

A deep eutectic solvent (DES) ionic gel is fabricated rapidly under mild conditions. The acrylic acid monomer is polymerized based on a dual self‐catalytic system between Vitamin C (VC) and metal ions, such as Fe3+ in the presence of ammonium persulfate in the DES of betaine and ethylene glycol. The as‐obtained PAA/DES ionic gel possesses excellent conductivity between 0.1 and 1.3 S m−1 in a wide range of temperatures from 0 to 90 °C. Moreover, it also shows an ultra‐stretchable performance with stretch more than 200 times its original length even under a stretching rate of 100 mm min−1. Besides, it can operate in harsh conditions because of its anti‐freezing and anti‐drying properties. The ionic gel is self‐healing, and the stretching and conductive performance can be recovered after it is broken. These superior properties of the DES ionic gel provide new insights into the design of novel gels in various applications, such as tissue engineering, sensing, and wearable electronics.
From Molecules to Polymers—Harnessing Inter‐ and Intramolecular Interactions to Create Mechanochromic Materials
Authors: Traeger Hanna , Kiebala Derek J. , Weder Christoph , Schrettl Stephen
Published: November 2020

The development of mechanophores as building blocks that serve as predefined weak linkages has enabled the creation of mechanoresponsive and mechanochromic polymer materials, which are interesting for a range of applications including the study of biological specimens or advanced security features. In typical mechanophores, covalent bonds are broken when polymers that contain these chemical motifs are exposed to mechanical forces, and changes of the optical properties upon bond scission can be harnessed as a signal that enables the detection of applied mechanical stresses and strains. Similar chromic effects upon mechanical deformation of polymers can also be achieved without relying on the scission of covalent bonds. The dissociation of motifs that feature directional noncovalent interactions, the disruption of aggregated molecules, and conformational changes in molecules or polymers constitute an attractive element for the design of mechanoresponsive and mechanochromic materials. In this article, it is reviewed how such alterations of molecules and polymers can be exploited for the development of mechanochromic materials that signal deformation without breaking covalent bonds. Recent illustrative examples are highlighted that showcase how the use of such mechanoresponsive motifs enables the visual mapping of stresses and damage in a reversible and highly sensitive manner.
Efficient modeling of low‐resolution millimeter‐wave transceivers for massive MIMO wireless communications systems
Authors: Estes Nicholas , Gao Kang , Hochwald Bertrand , Laneman J. Nicholas , Chisum Jonathan
Published: November 2020

We present a high‐fidelity measurement‐based nonlinear model of low‐complexity millimeter‐wave transmit and receive circuits for design and analysis of 1‐bit on‐off‐key (OOK) massive MIMO wireless communications systems. The receive model is based upon a fabricated 38 GHz energy detector, representative of state‐of‐the‐art OOK millimeter‐wave receivers. The model is validated with measurements and includes nonlinear noise modeling. Performance of a large‐scale massive MIMO system is predicted with the model, and predictions are compared against a 4‐transmit‐element, N‐receive‐element testbed. Finally, we compute the channel capacity of several OOK massive MIMO systems, exploring tradeoffs in power consumption and number of transmit and receive cells. Results indicate a 1‐bit OOK array with low power pre‐amplifiers can achieve similar capacity to a classical linear receiver with less than one tenth the power consumption. The 1‐bit array compensates for the per‐cell simplicity by increasing the total number of cells while maintaining low overall power consumption.
Early and consistent pattern of proximal weakness in GNE myopathy
Authors: Khadilkar Satish V. , Chaudhari Amit D. , Singla Madhu B. , Dastur Rashna S. , Gaitonde Pradnya S. , Bhutada Ashish G. , Hegde Madhuri R.
Published: November 2020

Background

GNE myopathy is widely regarded as a distal myopathy. Involvement of proximal musculature in this condition has not been systematically studied.

Methods

The phenotype of genetically confirmed patients with GNE myopathy was analyzed. Fourteen groups of muscles were evaluated with Medical Research Council (MRC) grading and the average muscle scores (AMS:1–10) were calculated.

Results

Fully documented AMS data was available in 31 of 65 patients. It showed a consistent pattern of severe weakness of hip adductors, hip flexors, knee flexors, and foot dorsiflexors, with milder weakness of the hip extensors and abductors. The knee extensors were largely unaffected. The proximal weakness appeared early in the course of the disease. Proximal muscle weakness was also present in the remaining 34 patients in whom the data were limited. A variant in exon 13 (c.2179G > A) was very common (81.5%).

Conclusions

The GNE phenotype in this Indian cohort exhibited mixed proximal and distal involvement. Weakness of adductors and flexors of the hip formed an integral part of the phenotype.
Competitive fit‐revelation sampling and mixed pricing strategy
Authors: Wu Lingli , Deng Shiming
Published: November 2020

When firms launch new products, consumers may be uncertain about whether these products fit their individual preferences before they have any personal experience with them. Such consumer fit uncertainty is very common for products sold online. To resolve this uncertainty, firms may provide fit‐revelation sampling along with competitive pricing depending on their competitors' strategies. In this paper, we formulate a game‐theoretical model to study the fit‐revelation sampling strategies for two competing firms of substitute products in a market consisting of switchers and nonswitchers. We derive equilibrium sampling and pricing strategies and provide conditions under which the two firms adopt symmetric or asymmetric sampling strategies. Our analysis provides possible explanations on why different sampling strategies are observed among competing firms in practice. We show that fit‐revelation sampling can be an important market differentiation tool. Adopting asymmetric sampling strategies, the two firms can take advantage of the market differentiation effect to avoid head‐on competition and make both of them better off. Counter‐intuitively, the profits of both firms can be increasing in the degree of competition (i.e., the size of switchers), and decreasing in the size of nonswitchers. We also provide new insights on the cause of price dispersion for competing firms facing consumer fit uncertainty. This would help firms to adjust their promotion strategies in accordance with their sampling campaigns. We extend the model to consider a more general case in which firms have different sizes of nonswitchers. We show that the firm with a larger size of nonswitchers is more willing to provide fit‐revelation sampling if the benefit from dropping low‐value consumers through sampling is large. Targeted sampling and pricing strategies are further examined in this paper. We show that firms always prefer asymmetric sampling strategies when targeting the group of switchers.
Nanocellulose as a sustainable material for water purification
Authors: Ahankari Sandeep , George Thomas , Subhedar Aditya , Kar Kamal K.
Published: November 2020

The demand for purified water has been increasing day by day. More feasible technologies, including membrane filtration, adsorbents, and so forth have emerged out to be more efficient and cheaper over conventional industrial methods. Nanocellulose, being biodegradable, nontoxic, and sustainable nanofiller exhibits excellent mechanical properties, high aspect ratio, high surface area, and more importantly tunable surface chemistry; is a potential candidate to be employed for water purification. Composite membranes and films for water filtration, constituting of biopolymers have gathered immense interest lately. Compared with its unmodified form, the functionalized NC enhances the compatibility with the matrix and readily forming strong network structures; essential for the formation of channels for better adsorption of impurities and higher water flux. This review highlights some of the recent studies dedicated to making and testing of nanofiltration membranes prepared using nanocellulose and its different functionalized derivatives.
The effect of intramolecular hydrogen bond on the ultraviolet absorption of bi‐aryl Schiff bases
Authors: Cao Chao‐Tun , Li Luyao , Cao Chenzhong , Liu Junlan
Published: November 2020

Two kinds of Schiff bases, 85 samples of N‐(benzylidene)‐anilines (ZBAY) and 83 samples of N‐(phenyl‐ethylene)‐anilines (ZAPEY), were used as model compounds, in which the ZBAY contains 13 compounds with 2‐OH and the ZAPEY contains 35 compounds with 2‐OH (synthesized by this work). The quantitative correlation analysis ultraviolet absorption spectra of ZBAY and ZAPEY were performed, and the effect of intramolecular hydrogen bond on their wave number vmax (cm−1) of the maximum absorption wavelength λmax (nm) was investigated. The results show that (a) the factors affecting the vmax of ZBAY and ZAPEY are roughly the same, but their intensities are different. (b) The vmax move caused by intramolecular hydrogen bond is all red shift for both ZBAY and ZAPEY, but the red shift value (2,381) of the ZBAY is more than twice than that (850) of ZAPEY. (c) The effect of intramolecular hydrogen bond on vmax is only dominated by the parent structure unit of Schiff base, rather than the substituents in the molecule. For those compounds with the same parent structure unit, their red shift values of vmax are at fixed value, but their red shift values of λmax are unequal. Generally, the red shift value caused by the intramolecular hydrogen bond is larger for the compound with a larger λmax value. The above observed phenomena are discussed from the view of molecular coplanarity.
10Be exposure age for sorted polygons in the Sudetes Mountains
Authors: Engel Zbyněk , Křížek Marek , Braucher Régis , Uxa Tomáš , Krause David ,   AsterTeam
Published: November 2020

Patterned‐ground landforms represent the most common phenomenon of periglacial environment, and their large sorted forms belong to the few morphological indicators of past permafrost distribution. The relic forms of patterned ground are widespread on high‐elevated surfaces in the central European uplands, providing the evidence of regional periglacial conditions in the last glacial period. However, the timing of these landforms, as well as their potential for paleoclimate reconstructions, has remained unexplored. In this paper, we present 10Be exposure ages from the large sorted polygons sampled at four sites in the Sudetes Mountains, the highest part of the central European uplands. These results indicate that these landforms started to form at the end of Marine Isotope Stage 3, and the main phase of their formation occurred between 30 and 20 ka. This research confirms the hypothesis of sorted patterned‐ground formation within the last (Weichselian) glacial stage (110.6–11.7 ka) and suggests that earlier‐sorted features are not preserved in the Sudetes. The recognized period of enhanced periglacial activity coincides with a prominent cold interval identified earlier in both regional and northern‐hemispheric proxy records.
Delayed firm‐paid general training
Authors: Carter Thomas J.
Published: November 2020

This article adds the empirically verified, but analytically neglected, fact of delayed worker training to a model of general training. By delaying training, firms can gain partial information on worker‐firm matches, generating wage compression. Analytical results differ from those of other training models. In the noncooperative regime, all firm‐paid training is delayed, all worker‐paid training is immediate. With no externalities to other firms, the cooperative result is Pareto‐optimal. In a continuous‐time extension, firms choose a probationary period after which workers are trained. With longer probations, fewer bad‐match workers are trained and wage compression rises. Government training mandates are also studied.
Climate Change Adaptation and Community Development in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Greenwalt Julie , Dede Michael , Johnson Ibinabo , Nosa Prince , Precious Abi , Summers Barbara
Published: November 2020

Port Harcourt, Nigeria, as with many cities in Africa, is already experiencing impacts from climate change while also facing development challenges and compounding vulnerabilities. There is often a gap between the adaptation recommendations of academia and international organizations and the conditions needed to achieve these recommendations given the realities on the ground in cities with vulnerable populations, pressing challenges, and minimal capacity. This gap can make it difficult to translate theoretically persuasive plans and guidance into practically sustainable actions. This chapter builds on the experience of CMAP, a Port Harcourt-based NGO leading participatory mapping, community media, and public space design programs in the city’s informal waterfront settlements. Drawing on the perspectives of Chicoco Collective, the youth-led volunteer network which CMAP supports, and the datasets that they have built, the chapter explores local awareness and skills for climate change adaptation. This chapter concludes with recommendations relevant for Port Harcourt and similar African cities to build on such local skills and experiences and advocates for a partnership-based approach that brings together adaptation professionals and community-based actors for more effective critical analysis of local conditions and prioritization of actions to meet the development and climate change needs of local communities.
Treatment of myeloid malignancies relapsing after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation with venetoclax and hypomethylating agents—a retrospective multicenter analysis on behalf of the German Cooperative Transplant Study Group
Authors: Schuler Esther , Wagner-Drouet Eva-Maria , Ajib Salem , Bug Gesine , Crysandt Martina , Dressler Sabine , Hausmann Andreas , Heidenreich Daniela , Hirschbühl Klaus , Hoepting Matthias , Jost Edgar , Kaivers Jennifer , Klein Stefan , Koldehoff Michael , Kordelas Lambros , Kriege Oliver , Müller Lutz P. , Rautenberg Christina , Schaffrath Judith , Schmid Christoph , Wolff Daniel , Haas Rainer , Bornhäuser Martin , Schroeder Thomas , Kobbe Guido ,   On behalf of the German Cooperative Transplant Study Group
Published: November 2020

Treatment of relapse after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) remains a great challenge. Aiming to evaluate the combination of venetoclax and hypomethylating agents (HMAClax) for the treatment of relapse of myeloid malignancies after alloHSCT, we retrospectively collected data from 32 patients treated at 11 German centers. Venetoclax was applied with azacitidine (n = 13) or decitabine (n = 19); 11 patients received DLI in addition. HMAClax was the first salvage therapy in 8 patients. The median number of cycles per patient was 2 (1–19). All but 1 patient had grade 3/4 neutropenia. Hospital admission for grade 3/4 infections was necessary in 23 patients (72%); 5 of these were fatal. In 30 evaluable patients, overall response rate (ORR) was 47% (14/30, 3 CR MRDneg, 5 CR, 2 CRi, 1 MLFS, 3 PR). ORR was 86% in first salvage patients versus 35% in later salvage patients (p = 0.03). In 6 patients with molecular relapse (MR), ORR was 67% versus 42% in patients with hematological relapse (HR) (n = 24, p = n.s.). After a median follow-up of 8.4 months, 25 patients (78%) had died and 7 were alive. Estimated median overall survival was 3.7 months. Median survival of patients with HMAClax for first versus later salvage therapy was 5.7 and 3.4 months (p = n.s.) and for patients with MR (not reached) compared to HR (3.4 months, p = 0.024). This retrospective case series shows that venetoclax is utilized in various different combinations, schedules, and doses. Toxicity is substantial and patients who receive venetoclax/HMA combinations for MR or as first salvage therapy derive the greatest benefit.
Deletion of the transcription factor Prox-1 specifically in the renal distal convoluted tubule causes hypomagnesemia via reduced expression of TRPM6 and NCC
Authors: Schnoz Christina , Moser Sandra , Kratschmar Denise V. , Odermatt Alex , Loffing-Cueni Dominique , Loffing Johannes
Published: November 2020

The renal distal convoluted tubule (DCT) is critical for the fine-tuning of urinary ion excretion and the control of blood pressure. Ion transport along the DCT is tightly controlled by posttranscriptional mechanisms including a complex interplay of kinases, phosphatases, and ubiquitin ligases. Previous work identified the transcription factor Prox-1 as a gene significantly enriched in the DCT of adult mice. To test if Prox-1 contributes to the transcriptional regulation of DCT function and structure, we developed a novel mouse model (NCCcre:Prox-1flox/flox) for an inducible deletion of Prox-1 specifically in the DCT. The deletion of Prox-1 had no obvious impact on DCT structure and growth independent whether the deletion was achieved in newborn or adult mice. Furthermore, DCT-specific Prox-1 deficiency did not alter DCT-proliferation in response to loop diuretic treatment. Likewise, the DCT-specific deletion of Prox-1 did not cause other gross phenotypic abnormalities. Body weight, urinary volume, Na+ and K+ excretion as well as plasma Na+, K+, and aldosterone levels were similar in Prox-1DCTKO and Prox-1DCTCtrl mice. However, Prox-1DCTKO mice exhibited a significant hypomagnesemia with a profound downregulation of the DCT-specific apical Mg2+ channel TRPM6 and the NaCl cotransporter (NCC) at both mRNA and protein levels. The expression of other proteins involved in distal tubule Mg2+ and Na+ handling was not affected. Thus, Prox-1 is a DCT-enriched transcription factor that does not control DCT growth but contributes to the molecular control of DCT-dependent Mg2+ homeostasis in the adult kidney.
Serum levels of microRNA-371a-3p are not elevated in testicular tumours of non-germ cell origin
Authors: Belge Gazanfer , Grobelny Francesca , Radtke Arlo , Bodes Jacqueline , Matthies Cord , Wülfing Christian , Dieckmann Klaus-Peter
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Serum levels of microRNA-371a-3p (M371) have been shown to be a highly sensitive and specific biomarker for testicular germ cell tumours (TGCT). Little information exists on the expression of this marker in testicular neoplasms deriving from the gonadal stroma or other structures of the gonad. This study presents an expression analysis of the novel TGCT-biomarker M371 in a large cohort of testicular non-germ cell tumours.

Methods

The M371 expression was measured by quantitative real time PCR in serum of 99 patients with testicular tumours of non-germ cell origin, thereof 30 patients with malignant testicular lymphomas and 61 patients with gonadal stroma tumours such as Leydig cell tumours, Sertoli cell tumours and 8 cases with miscellaneous benign testicular tumours. Their M371 levels were compared to those of 20 patients with TGCT and to 37 tumour-free male controls.

Results

The median expression levels of benign testicular tumours and testicular lymphoma are close to zero, thus, identical with those of controls and significantly lower than those of TGCT. In summary, this study provides further evidence for the notion that M371 is exclusively expressed by germ cell tumours and not by testicular neoplasms of the non-germ cell subtypes.

Conclusion

Clinically, the test might be of value in preoperative characterization of benign testicular tumours eligible for conservative surgery.
Phosphate availability and ectomycorrhizal symbiosis with Pinus sylvestris have independent effects on the Paxillus involutus transcriptome
Authors: Paparokidou Christina , Leake Jonathan R. , Beerling David J. , Rolfe Stephen A.
Published: November 2020

Many plant species form symbioses with ectomycorrhizal fungi, which help them forage for limiting nutrients in the soil such as inorganic phosphate (Pi). The transcriptional responses to symbiosis and nutrient-limiting conditions in ectomycorrhizal fungal hyphae, however, are largely unknown. An artificial system was developed to study ectomycorrhizal basidiomycete Paxillus involutus growth in symbiosis with its host tree Pinus sylvestris at different Pi concentrations. RNA-seq analysis was performed on P. involutus hyphae growing under Pi-limiting conditions, either in symbiosis or alone. We show that Pi starvation and ectomycorrhizal symbiosis have an independent effect on the P. involutus transcriptome. Notably, low Pi availability induces expression of newly identified putative high-affinity Pi transporter genes, while reducing the expression of putative organic acid transporters. Additionally, low Pi availability induces a close transcriptional interplay between P and N metabolism. GTP-related signalling was found to have a positive effect in the maintenance of ectomycorrhizal symbiosis, whereas multiple putative cytochrome P450 genes were found to be downregulated, unlike arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi. We provide the first evidence of global transcriptional changes induced by low Pi availability and ectomycorrhizal symbiosis in the hyphae of P. involutus, revealing both similarities and differences with better-characterized arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi.
Debunking a myth: plant consciousness
Authors: Mallatt Jon , Blatt Michael R. , Draguhn Andreas , Robinson David G. , Taiz Lincoln
Published: November 2020

Claims that plants have conscious experiences have increased in recent years and have received wide coverage, from the popular media to scientific journals. Such claims are misleading and have the potential to misdirect funding and governmental policy decisions. After defining basic, primary consciousness, we provide new arguments against 12 core claims made by the proponents of plant consciousness. Three important new conclusions of our study are (1) plants have not been shown to perform the proactive, anticipatory behaviors associated with consciousness, but only to sense and follow stimulus trails reactively; (2) electrophysiological signaling in plants serves immediate physiological functions rather than integrative-information processing as in nervous systems of animals, giving no indication of plant consciousness; (3) the controversial claim of classical Pavlovian learning in plants, even if correct, is irrelevant because this type of learning does not require consciousness. Finally, we present our own hypothesis, based on two logical assumptions, concerning which organisms possess consciousness. Our first assumption is that affective (emotional) consciousness is marked by an advanced capacity for operant learning about rewards and punishments. Our second assumption is that image-based conscious experience is marked by demonstrably mapped representations of the external environment within the body. Certain animals fit both of these criteria, but plants fit neither. We conclude that claims for plant consciousness are highly speculative and lack sound scientific support.
Regional broad-band ground-shaking modelling over extended and thick sedimentary basins: an example from the Lower Rhine Embayment (Germany)
Authors: Pilz Marco , Cotton Fabrice , Razafindrakoto Hoby Njara Tendrisoa , Weatherill Graeme , Spies Thomas
Published: November 2020

The simulation of broad-band (0.1 to 10 + Hz) ground-shaking over deep and spatially extended sedimentary basins at regional scales is challenging. We evaluate the ground-shaking of a potential M 6.5 earthquake in the southern Lower Rhine Embayment, one of the most important areas of earthquake recurrence north of the Alps, close to the city of Cologne in Germany. In a first step, information from geological investigations, seismic experiments and boreholes is combined for deriving a harmonized 3D velocity and attenuation model of the sedimentary layers. Three alternative approaches are then applied and compared to evaluate the impact of the sedimentary cover on ground-motion amplification. The first approach builds on existing response spectra ground-motion models whose amplification factors empirically take into account the influence of the sedimentary layers through a standard parameterization. In the second approach, site-specific 1D amplification functions are computed from the 3D basin model. Using a random vibration theory approach, we adjust the empirical response spectra predicted for soft rock conditions by local site amplification factors: amplifications and associated ground-motions are predicted both in the Fourier and in the response spectra domain. In the third approach, hybrid physics-based ground-motion simulations are used to predict time histories for soft rock conditions which are subsequently modified using the 1D site-specific amplification functions computed in method 2. For large distances and at short periods, the differences between the three approaches become less notable due to the significant attenuation of the sedimentary layers. At intermediate and long periods, generic empirical ground-motion models provide lower levels of amplification from sedimentary soils compared to methods taking into account site-specific 1D amplification functions. In the near-source region, hybrid physics-based ground-motions models illustrate the potentially large variability of ground-motion due to finite source effects.
Evaluation of Phytotoxicity of Bimetallic Ag/Au Nanoparticles Synthesized Using Geum urbanum L.
Authors: Szymanski Marcin , Dobrucka Renata
Published: November 2020

The growing production and wider application of metal nanoparticles gives rise to many concerns about their release to natural ecosystems. It is very important to be aware of the harmful impact of nanoparticles on living organisms, including plants. Therefore, it is of vital significance to explore the impact of metal nanoparticles on plants. This work assessed the phytotoxicity of bimetallic Ag/Au nanoparticles and Geum urbanum L. extract. The obtained bimetallic Ag/Au nanoparticles were characterized by UV–vis spectrophotometry (UV–vis), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The microscopic studies enabled the determination of the size of the obtained nanoparticles, which was 50 nm. The wide range of concentrations evaluated in the course of the study made it possible to observe changes in selected plants (seeds of Lepidium sativum, Linum flavum, Zea mays, Solanum lycopersicum var. Cerasiforme and Salvia hispanica-Chia) caused by a stress factor. The studies showed that the solution of Ag/Au nanoparticles was most toxic to flax (IC50 = 9.83 × 10–6/9.25 × 10–6 mg/ml), and least toxic to lupine (IC50 = 1.23 × 10–3/1.16 × 10–3 mg/ml). Moreover, we studied the toxicity of Geum urbanum extract. The extracts diluted to 0.00875 mg/ml stimulated the growth of lupine, flax and garden cress; extracts diluted to 0.175 mg/ml stimulated the growth of Chia and tomatoes; and extracts diluted to 0.00875 mg/ml stimulated the growth of corn. G. urbanum extract was most toxic to lupine (IC50 = 0.374 mg/ml), and least toxic to corn (IC50 = 4.635 mg/ml).
Patterns of Romantic Relationship Experiences and Psychosocial Adjustment From Adolescence to Young Adulthood
Authors: Gonzalez Avilés Tita , Finn Christine , Neyer Franz J.
Published: November 2020

Engaging in a romantic relationship is a key developmental task of adolescence and adolescents differ greatly in both the age at which they start dating and in how romantically active they are. These differences in romantic relationship experiences could be relevant for adolescents’ short- and long-term psychosocial adjustment. The present study describes the diversity of relationship experiences during adolescence and examines their connection to psychosocial adjustment in adolescence and young adulthood.N = 2457 adolescents (49.3% female) from a German representative longitudinal study provided information on their relationship experiences between the ages 10 and 20, as well as on their psychosocial adjustment. Data were collected via annual assessments starting in 2008 at ageM = 16.50 years (SD = 0.88) through young adulthood (M = 25.46,SD = 0.87). Latent profile analysis identified three romantic involvement groups: late starters, moderate daters, and frequent changers, which were further compared to adolescents without any romantic experiences (continuous singles). Growth curve analyses indicated that continuous singles reported lower life satisfaction and higher loneliness than the moderate daters in adolescence and young adulthood. The continuous singles were also less satisfied with their life in young adulthood and felt more lonely in both adolescence and young adulthood compared to the late starters. The findings of the study suggest great variability in adolescents’ romantic relationship experiences and point toward the developmental significance of these experiences for short- and long-term well-being.