bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Generalized Series Solution for the Boussinesq Equation With Constant Boundary Conditions
Authors: Chor Tomas , Ruiz de Zárate Ailín , Dias Nelson L.
Published: March 2019

In this work we consider the Boussinesq equation applied to a one‐dimensional homogeneous aquifer with constant boundary conditions. Such a problem is generally solved (both analytically and numerically) by transforming it from a boundary value problem into an equivalent initial value problem that has to be solved by means of a trial‐and‐error approach. We devise a method that eliminates the need for trial and error that is purely analytical, which can benefit both numerical and analytical solutions. Furthermore, we present a general series solution that solves this equation analytically with arbitrary precision. The series solution generalizes two particular cases that already exist in the literature. With the new proposed series, the need for any numerical integration of differential equations is removed, and fully analytical benchmark solutions are obtained.
Modeling Land Subsidence Using InSAR and Airborne Electromagnetic Data
Authors: Smith R. , Knight R.
Published: March 2019

Land subsidence as a result of groundwater overpumping in the San Joaquin Valley, California, is associated with the loss of groundwater storage and aquifer contamination. Although the physical processes governing land subsidence are well understood, building predictive models of subsidence is challenging because so much subsurface information is required to do so accurately. For the first time, we integrate airborne electromagnetic data, representing the subsurface, with subsidence data, mapped by interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR), to model deformation. By combining both data sets, we are able to solve for hydrologic and geophysical properties of the subsurface to effectively model the complex spatiotemporal process of deformation. The resulting model reveals that roughly 3 m of subsidence has occurred at one location of our study area from 1990 to 2018. This model also allows us to predict subsidence more accurately under future hydrologic scenarios, which is needed to develop plans for sustainable groundwater use.
Is There a Baseflow Budyko Curve?
Authors: Gnann Sebastian J. , Woods Ross A. , Howden Nicholas J. K.
Published: March 2019

There is no general theory to explain differences in baseflow between catchments, despite evidence that it is mainly controlled by climate and landscape. One hypothesis is that baseflow fraction (the ratio between baseflow and precipitation) can be primarily attributed to the aridity index (the ratio between potential evapotranspiration and precipitation), that is, that there is a “baseflow Budyko curve.” Comparing catchment data from the United States and the United Kingdom shows, however, that aridity is not always a good predictor of baseflow fraction. We use the revised Ponce‐Shetty annual water balance model to show that there is no single “baseflow Budyko curve” but rather a continuum of curves emerging from a more universal model that incorporates both climate and landscape factors. In humid catchments, baseflow fraction is highly variable due to variations in a catchment's wetting potential, a parameter that describes catchment storage capacity. In arid catchments, vaporization limits baseflow generation, which leads to lower variability in baseflow fraction. Generally, when the magnitude of precipitation is important, the aridity index only partly explains baseflow response. Adapting the model to explain variability of the baseflow index (the ratio between baseflow and total streamflow) shows that the aridity index is generally a poor predictor of baseflow index. While the wetting potentials and other parameters are obtained by fitting the Ponce‐Shetty model to annual catchment data, their links to physical properties remain to be explored. This currently limits the model's applicability to gauged catchments with sufficiently long records.
Tracking Regional Climate Change from Pole to Pole
Authors: Joswiak Daniel , Guelld Joswiak Meri , Yao Tandong
Published: March 2019

8th Third Pole Environment Workshop; Gothenburg, Sweden, 24–26 September 2018
Drift‐Dispersed Flux Dropouts of Energetic Electrons Observed in Earth's Middle Magnetosphere by the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) Mission
Authors: Cohen Ian J. , Mauk Barry H. , Turner Drew L. , Fennell Joseph F. , Blake J. Bernard , Reeves Geoffrey D. , Leonard Trevor W. , Baker Daniel N. , Jaynes Allison N. , Spence Harlan E. , Gabrielse Christine
Published: March 2019

Energetic particle injections are characterized by dispersive or dispersionless increases in observed particle flux. Observations from National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission have revealed transient events displaying injection‐like dispersed reductions in energetic (~30–600 keV) electron flux in the dawnside magnetosphere. Although initially believed to be the result of magnetopause losses, drift tracing of the electrons suggests a source for these drift‐dispersed flux dropouts in the near‐to‐postmidnight magnetotail suggesting that they are likely related to similar signatures previously observed at geosynchronous orbit. We suggest that the dozen examples presented are signatures of “flux‐reduced injections” resulting from earthward injection in the presence of a negative phase space density radial gradient as supported by observed phase space density versus L‐shell profiles. These events also display varying pitch angle responses inconsistent with a singular loss mechanism, leading to the suggestion that they result from preconditioning of the magnetotail source region prior to the injection.
Formation and Evolution Mechanisms for Two Extreme Haze Episodes in the Yangtze River Delta Region of China During Winter 2016
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Wang Tijian , Xie Min , Li Shu , Zhuang Bingliang , Huang Xin , Chen Pulong , Zhao Ming , Liu Jane
Published: March 2019

Severe haze pollution frequently occurred in China during winter. Mechanisms for the formation and evolution of high PM2.5 (particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 μm or less) episodes, however, remain poorly understood. We characterize two extreme haze episodes in the Yangtze River Delta region of China from 1 to 9 December (Episode I) and 19 to 24 December (Episode II) in 2016 using comprehensive measurements and model analyses. The aqueous sulfur dioxide (SO2) oxidation catalyzed by mineral ions and the heterogeneous uptakes of SO2, sulfuric acid (H2SO4), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), nitrogen trioxide (NO3), nitrogen pentoxide (N2O5), and nitric acid (HNO3) on mineral aerosols are included in the model to better represent the formation of sulfate‐nitrate‐ammonium. The optimized mechanisms substantially improve the simulations of PM2.5 composition, particularly for sulfate and nitrate. The two episodes show different synoptic conditions and evolution stages, with gradual PM2.5 increase under stagnant weather conditions in Episode I (Stage I: Slow Increase Stage, Stage II: Rapid Formation Stage, and Stage III: Dissipation Stage) and with explosive PM2.5 increase mostly associated with cross‐border transport from North China in Episode II (Stage I′: Clean Stage, Stage II′: Fast Transport Stage, and Stage III′: Clear Stage). The concentrations of sulfate‐nitrate‐ammonium increased evidently and became the key components of PM2.5 during haze episodes. The heterogeneous conversion from SO2 to sulfate on mineral aerosols is the main reason for sulfate increase, accounting for more than 50% of sulfate production. This study provides a better understanding of the causes for winter haze in China.
Broadband THz absorption spectrometer based on excitonic nonlinear optical effects
Authors: Majeed Avan , Ivanov Pavlo , Stevens Benjamin , Clarke Edmund , Butler Iain , Childs David , Kojima Osamu , Hogg Richard
Published: March 2019

A broadly tunable THz source is realized via difference frequency generation, in which an enhancement to χ(3) that is obtained via resonant excitation of III–V semiconductor quantum well excitons is utilized. The symmetry of the quantum wells (QWs) is broken by utilizing the built-in electric-field across a p–i–n junction to produce effective χ(2) processes, which are derived from the high χ(3). This χ(2) media exhibits an onset of nonlinear processes at ~4 W cm−2, thereby enabling area (and, hence, power) scaling of the THz emitter. Phase matching is realized laterally through normal incidence excitation. Using two collimated 130 mW continuous wave (CW) semiconductor lasers with ~1-mm beam diameters, we realize monochromatic THz emission that is tunable from 0.75 to 3 THz and demonstrate the possibility that this may span 0.2–6 THz with linewidths of ~20 GHz and efficiencies of ~1 × 10–5, thereby realizing ~800 nW of THz power. Then, transmission spectroscopy of atmospheric features is demonstrated, thereby opening the way for compact, low-cost, swept-wavelength THz spectroscopy.
The LXR-623-induced long non-coding RNA LINC01125 suppresses the proliferation of breast cancer cells via PTEN/AKT/p53 signaling pathway
Authors: Wan Weijun , Hou Yongying , Wang Ke , Cheng Yue , Pu Xia , Ye Xiufeng
Published: March 2019

LXR-623 (WAY-252623), a liver X receptor agonist, reduces atherosclerotic plaque progression and remarkably inhibits the proliferation of glioblastoma cells, owing to its brain-penetrant ability. However, the role of LXR-623 against the proliferation of other cancer cells and the underlying mechanism remain unknown. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) serve as novel and crucial regulators that participate in cancer tumorigenesis and diverse biological processes. Here, we report a previously uncharacterized mechanism underlying lncRNA-mediated exocytosis of LXR-623 via the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN)/protein kinase B (AKT)/p53 axis to suppress the proliferation of cancer cells in vitro. We found that LXR-623 significantly inhibited the proliferation and induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at S phase in breast cancer cells in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Experiments using a xenograft mouse model revealed the inhibitory effects of LXR-623 on tumor growth. We used lncRNA microarray to investigate the potential genes regulated by LXR-623. As a result, LINC01125 was found to be significantly upregulated in the cells treated with LXR-623. Gain- and loss-of-function assays were conducted to investigate the anti-proliferation role of LINC01125. LINC01125 knockdown resulted in the inhibition of the cytotoxic effect of LXR-623; in contrast, LINC01125 overexpression significantly enhanced the effect of LXR-623. LXR-623 and LINC01125-mediated anti-growth regulation is, at least in part, associated with the participation of the PTEN/AKT/mouse double minute 2 homolog (MDM2)/p53 pathway. In addition, SF1670, a specific PTEN inhibitor with prolonged intracellular retention, may strongly block the anti-proliferation effect induced by LXR-623 and LINC01125 overexpression. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay results suggest that p53 binds to the promoter of LINC01125 to strengthen the expression of the PTEN/AKT pathway. Taken together, our findings suggest that LXR-623 possesses significant antitumor activity in breast cancer cells that is partly mediated through the upregulation in LINC01125 expression and enhancement in apoptosis via the PTEN/AKT/MDM2/p53 pathway.
T-cell senescence contributes to abnormal glucose homeostasis in humans and mice
Authors: Yi Hyon-Seung , Kim So Yeon , Kim Jung Tae , Lee Young-Sun , Moon Ji Sun , Kim Mingyo , Kang Yea Eun , Joung Kyong Hye , Lee Ju Hee , Kim Hyun Jin , Chun Kwangsik , Shong Minho , Ku Bon Jeong
Published: March 2019

Chronic inflammation is a driving force for the development of metabolic disease including diabetes and obesity. However, the functional characteristics of T-cell senescence in the abnormal glucose homeostasis are not fully understood. We studied the patients visiting a hospital for routine health check-ups, who were divided into two groups: normal controls and people with prediabetes. Gene expression profiling of peripheral blood mononuclear cells from normal controls and patients with type 2 diabetes was undertaken using microarray analysis. We also investigated the immunometabolic characteristics of peripheral and hepatic senescent T cells in the normal subjects and patients with prediabetes. Moreover, murine senescent T cells were tested functionally in the liver of normal or mice with metabolic deterioration caused by diet-induced obesity. Human senescent (CD28−CD57+) CD8+T cells are increased in the development of diabetes and proinflammatory cytokines and cytotoxic molecules are highly expressed in senescent T cells from patients with prediabetes. Moreover, we demonstrate that patients with prediabetes have higher concentrations of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in their senescent CD8+T cells via enhancing capacity to use glycolysis. These functional properties of senescent CD8+T cells contribute to the impairment of hepatic insulin sensitivity in humans. Furthermore, we found an increase of hepatic senescent T cells in mouse models of aging and diet-induced obesity. Adoptive transfer of senescent CD8+T cells also led to a significant deterioration in systemic abnormal glucose homeostasis, which is improved by ROS scavengers in mice. This study defines a new clinically relevant concept of T-cell senescence-mediated inflammatory responses in the pathophysiology of abnormal glucose homeostasis. We also found that T-cell senescence is associated with systemic inflammation and alters hepatic glucose homeostasis. The rational modulation of T-cell senescence would be a promising avenue for the treatment or prevention of diabetes.
Transcriptional profiling of human microglia reveals grey–white matter heterogeneity and multiple sclerosis-associated changes
Authors: van der Poel Marlijn , Ulas Thomas , Mizee Mark R. , Hsiao Cheng-Chih , Miedema Suzanne S. M. , Adelia  , Schuurman Karianne G. , Helder Boy , Tas Sander W. , Schultze Joachim L. , Hamann Jörg , Huitinga Inge
Published: March 2019

Here we report the transcriptional profile of human microglia, isolated from normal-appearing grey matter (GM) and white matter (WM) of multiple sclerosis (MS) and non-neurological control donors, to find possible early changes related to MS pathology. Microglia show a clear region-specific profile, indicated by higher expression of type-I interferon genes in GM and higher expression of NF-κB pathway genes in WM. Transcriptional changes in MS microglia also differ between GM and WM. MS WM microglia show increased lipid metabolism gene expression, which relates to MS pathology since active MS lesion-derived microglial nuclei show similar altered gene expression. Microglia from MS GM show increased expression of genes associated with glycolysis and iron homeostasis, possibly reflecting microglia reacting to iron depositions. Except forADGRG1/GPR56, expression of homeostatic genes, such asP2RY12andTMEM119, is unaltered in normal-appearing MS tissue, demonstrating overall preservation of microglia homeostatic functions in the initiation phase of MS.
Conformal hexagonal-boron nitride dielectric interface for tungsten diselenide devices with improved mobility and thermal dissipation
Authors: Liu Donghua , Chen Xiaosong , Yan Yaping , Zhang Zhongwei , Jin Zhepeng , Yi Kongyang , Zhang Cong , Zheng Yujie , Wang Yao , Yang Jun , Xu Xiangfan , Chen Jie , Lu Yunhao , Wei Dapeng , Wee Andrew Thye Shen , Wei Dacheng
Published: March 2019

Relatively low mobility and thermal conductance create challenges for application of tungsten diselenide (WSe2) in high performance devices. Dielectric interface is of extremely importance for improving carrier transport and heat spreading in a semiconductor device. Here, by near-equilibrium plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition, we realize catalyst-free growth of poly-crystalline two-dimensional hexagonal-boron nitride (2D-BN) with domains around 20~ 200 nm directly on SiO2/Si, quartz, sapphire, silicon or SiO2/Si with three-dimensional patterns at 300 °C. Owing to the atomically-clean van-der-Walls conformal interface and the fact that 2D-BN can better bridge the vibrational spectrum across the interface and protect interfacial heat conduction against substrate roughness, both improved performance and thermal dissipation of WSe2 field-effect transistor are realized with mobility around 56~ 121 cm2 V−1 s−1 and saturated power intensity up to 4.23 × 103 W cm−2. Owing to its simplicity, conformal growth on three-dimensional surface, compatibility with microelectronic process, it has potential for application in future two-dimensional electronics.
Duodenal bacterial proteolytic activity determines sensitivity to dietary antigen through protease-activated receptor-2
Authors: Caminero Alberto , McCarville Justin L. , Galipeau Heather J. , Deraison Celine , Bernier Steve P. , Constante Marco , Rolland Corinne , Meisel Marlies , Murray Joseph A. , Yu Xuechen B. , Alaedini Armin , Coombes Brian K. , Bercik Premysl , Southward Carolyn M. , Ruf Wolfram , Jabri Bana , Chirdo Fernando G. , Casqueiro Javier , Surette Michael G. , Vergnolle Nathalie , Verdu Elena F.
Published: March 2019

Microbe-host interactions are generally homeostatic, but when dysfunctional, they can incite food sensitivities and chronic diseases. Celiac disease (CeD) is a food sensitivity characterized by a breakdown of oral tolerance to gluten proteins in genetically predisposed individuals, although the underlying mechanisms are incompletely understood. Here we show that duodenal biopsies from patients with active CeD have increased proteolytic activity against gluten substrates that correlates with increased Proteobacteria abundance, including Pseudomonas. Using Pseudomonas aeruginosa producing elastase as a model, we show gluten-independent, PAR-2 mediated upregulation of inflammatory pathways in C57BL/6 mice without villus blunting. In mice expressing CeD risk genes, P. aeruginosa elastase synergizes with gluten to induce more severe inflammation that is associated with moderate villus blunting. These results demonstrate that proteases expressed by opportunistic pathogens impact host immune responses that are relevant to the development of food sensitivities, independently of the trigger antigen.
Phototrophic purple bacteria as optoacoustic in vivo reporters of macrophage activity
Authors: Peters Lena , Weidenfeld Ina , Klemm Uwe , Loeschcke Anita , Weihmann Robin , Jaeger Karl-Erich , Drepper Thomas , Ntziachristos Vasilis , Stiel Andre C.
Published: March 2019

Τhe morphology, physiology and immunology, of solid tumors exhibit spatial heterogeneity which complicates our understanding of cancer progression and therapy response. Understanding spatial heterogeneity necessitates high resolution in vivo imaging of anatomical and pathophysiological tumor information. We introduce Rhodobacter as bacterial reporter for multispectral optoacoustic (photoacoustic) tomography (MSOT). We show that endogenous bacteriochlorophyll a in Rhodobacter gives rise to strong optoacoustic signals >800 nm away from interfering endogenous absorbers. Importantly, our results suggest that changes in the spectral signature of Rhodobacter which depend on macrophage activity inside the tumor can be used to reveal heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment. Employing non-invasive high resolution MSOT in longitudinal studies we show spatiotemporal changes of Rhodobacter spectral profiles in mice bearing 4T1 and CT26.WT tumor models. Accessibility of Rhodobacter to genetic modification and thus to sensory and therapeutic functions suggests potential for a theranostic platform organism.
The development of synaptic transmission is time-locked to early social behaviors in rats
Authors: Naskar Shovan , Narducci Roberto , Balzani Edoardo , Cwetsch Andrzej W. , Tucci Valter , Cancedda Laura
Published: March 2019

The development of functional synapses is a sequential process preserved across many brain areas. Here, we show that glutamatergic postsynaptic currents anticipated GABAergic currents in Layer II/III of the rat neocortex, in contrast to the pattern described for other brain areas. The frequencies of both glutamatergic and GABAergic currents increased abruptly at the beginning of the second postnatal week, supported by a serotonin upsurge. Integrative behaviors arose on postnatal day (P)9, while most motor and sensory behaviors, which are fundamental for pup survival, were already in place at approximately P7. A reduction in serotonin reuptake accelerated the development of functional synapses and integrative huddling behavior, while sparing motor and sensory function development. A decrease in synaptic transmission in Layer II/III induced by a chemogenetic approach only inhibited huddling. Thus, precise developmental sequences mediate early, socially directed behaviors for which neurotransmission and its modulation in supragranular cortical layers play key roles.
Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 accelerates vascular calcification by upregulating Runx2
Authors: Wang Cheng , Xu Wenjing , An Jie , Liang Minglu , Li Yiqing , Zhang Fengxiao , Tong Qiangsong , Huang Kai
Published: March 2019

Vascular calcification is highly prevalent in end-stage renal diseases and is predictive of cardiovascular events and mortality. Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) inhibition or deletion is vasoprotective in several disease models. Here we show that PARP activity is increased in radial artery samples from patients with chronic renal failure, in arteries from uraemic rats, and in calcified vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) in vitro. PARP1 deficiency blocks, whereas PARP1 overexpression exacerbates, the transdifferentiation of VSMCs from a contractile to an osteogenic phenotype, the expression of mineralization-regulating proteins, and calcium deposition. PARP1 promotes Runx2 expression, and Runx2 deficiency offsets the pro-calcifying effects of PARP1. Activated PARP1 suppresses miRNA-204 expression via the IL-6/STAT3 pathway and thus relieves the repression of its target, Runx2, resulting in increased Runx2 protein. Together, these results suggest that PARP1 counteracts vascular calcification and that therapeutic agents that influence PARP1 activity may be of benefit to treat vascular calcification.
Network-based prediction of drug combinations
Authors: Cheng Feixiong , Kovács István A. , Barabási Albert-László
Published: March 2019

Drug combinations, offering increased therapeutic efficacy and reduced toxicity, play an important role in treating multiple complex diseases. Yet, our ability to identify and validate effective combinations is limited by a combinatorial explosion, driven by both the large number of drug pairs as well as dosage combinations. Here we propose a network-based methodology to identify clinically efficacious drug combinations for specific diseases. By quantifying the network-based relationship between drug targets and disease proteins in the human protein–protein interactome, we show the existence of six distinct classes of drug–drug–disease combinations. Relying on approved drug combinations for hypertension and cancer, we find that only one of the six classes correlates with therapeutic effects: if the targets of the drugs both hit disease module, but target separate neighborhoods. This finding allows us to identify and validate antihypertensive combinations, offering a generic, powerful network methodology to identify efficacious combination therapies in drug development.
Radiation tolerance of two-dimensional material-based devices for space applications
Authors: Vogl Tobias , Sripathy Kabilan , Sharma Ankur , Reddy Prithvi , Sullivan James , Machacek Joshua R. , Zhang Linglong , Karouta Fouad , Buchler Ben C. , Doherty Marcus W. , Lu Yuerui , Lam Ping Koy
Published: March 2019

Characteristic for devices based on two-dimensional materials are their low size, weight and power requirements. This makes them advantageous for use in space instrumentation, including photovoltaics, batteries, electronics, sensors and light sources for long-distance quantum communication. Here we present a comprehensive study on combined radiation effects in Earth’s atmosphere on various devices based on these nanomaterials. Using theoretical modeling packages, we estimate relevant radiation levels and then expose field-effect transistors, single-photon sources and monolayers as building blocks for future electronics to γ-rays, protons and electrons. The devices show negligible change in performance after the irradiation, suggesting robust suitability for space use. Under excessive γ-radiation, however, monolayer WS2 shows decreased defect densities, identified by an increase in photoluminescence, carrier lifetime and a change in doping ratio proportional to the photon flux. The underlying mechanism is traced back to radiation-induced defect healing, wherein dissociated oxygen passivates sulfur vacancies.
Routing entanglement in the quantum internet
Authors: Pant Mihir , Krovi Hari , Towsley Don , Tassiulas Leandros , Jiang Liang , Basu Prithwish , Englund Dirk , Guha Saikat
Published: March 2019

Remote quantum entanglement can enable numerous applications including distributed quantum computation, secure communication, and precision sensing. We consider how a quantum network—nodes equipped with limited quantum processing capabilities connected via lossy optical links—can distribute high-rate entanglement simultaneously between multiple pairs of users. We develop protocols for such quantum “repeater” nodes, which enable a pair of users to achieve large gains in entanglement rates over using a linear chain of quantum repeaters, by exploiting the diversity of multiple paths in the network. Additionally, we develop repeater protocols that enable multiple user pairs to generate entanglement simultaneously at rates that can far exceed what is possible with repeaters time sharing among assisting individual entanglement flows. Our results suggest that the early-stage development of quantum memories with short coherence times and implementations of probabilistic Bell-state measurements can have a much more profound impact on quantum networks than may be apparent from analyzing linear repeater chains. This framework should spur the development of a general quantum network theory, bringing together quantum memory physics, quantum information theory, quantum error correction, and computer network theory.
Matrix effect on surface-catalyzed photolysis of nitric acid
Authors: Ye Chunxiang , Zhang Ning , Gao Honglian , Zhou Xianliang
Published: March 2019

Photolysis rate constant of HNO3on the surface (HNO3(s)) has been found to be enhanced by 1–4 orders of magnitude from that of gaseous HNO3, with HONO and NO2as the main products. Such Re-NOx-ification pathway extends the apparent lifetime of reactive nitrogen species and modifies the atmospheric oxidative capacity along its long-rang transport. Despite of its importance, the detailed kinetics and mechanisms of HNO3(s)photolysis are still not clear. Surface film of HNO3and organic compounds is ubiquitous in the environment and imposes matrix effect on HNO3(s)photolysis. Here we studied photolysis of HNO3on Pyrex glass in a photochemical flow reactor over a wide range of HNO3surface density (DHNO3) with or without the presence of model organic compounds. The photolysis rate constant of HNO3(s)varied withDHNO3and surface-catalysis mechanism was proposed. Organic compounds further enhance the photolysis rate constant by up to one order of magnitude via both photosensitization and H-donating reaction. The H-donating reaction enhances as well the secondary HONO yield from reaction between the primary product NO2and adjacent H-donor, and thus increases the HONO/NO2production ratio. Finally, detailed mechanisms involving surface-catalyisis, photosensitization and H-donating reactions was integrated.
Sedimentary record from Patagonia, southern Chile supports cosmic-impact triggering of biomass burning, climate change, and megafaunal extinctions at 12.8 ka
Authors: Pino Mario , Abarzúa Ana M. , Astorga Giselle , Martel-Cea Alejandra , Cossio-Montecinos Nathalie , Navarro R. Ximena , Lira Maria Paz , Labarca Rafael , LeCompte Malcolm A. , Adedeji Victor , Moore Christopher R. , Bunch Ted E. , Mooney Charles , Wolbach Wendy S. , West Allen , Kennett James P.
Published: March 2019

The Younger Dryas (YD) impact hypothesis posits that fragments of a large, disintegrating asteroid/comet struck North America, South America, Europe, and western Asia ~12,800 years ago. Multiple airbursts/impacts produced the YD boundary layer (YDB), depositing peak concentrations of platinum, high-temperature spherules, meltglass, and nanodiamonds, forming an isochronous datum at >50 sites across ~50 million km² of Earth’s surface. This proposed event triggered extensive biomass burning, brief impact winter, YD climate change, and contributed to extinctions of late Pleistocene megafauna. In the most extensive investigation south of the equator, we report on a ~12,800-year-old sequence at Pilauco, Chile (~40°S), that exhibits peak YD boundary concentrations of platinum, gold, high-temperature iron- and chromium-rich spherules, and native iron particles rarely found in nature. A major peak in charcoal abundance marks an intense biomass-burning episode, synchronous with dramatic changes in vegetation, including a high-disturbance regime, seasonality in precipitation, and warmer conditions. This is anti-phased with northern-hemispheric cooling at the YD onset, whose rapidity suggests atmospheric linkage. The sudden disappearance of megafaunal remains and dung fungi in the YDB layer at Pilauco correlates with megafaunal extinctions across the Americas. The Pilauco record appears consistent with YDB impact evidence found at sites on four continents.
Achieving excellent superplasticity of Mg-7Zn-5Gd-0.6Zr alloy at low temperature regime
Authors: Yin Siqi , Zhang Zhiqiang , Yu Jiamin , Zhao Zilong , Liu Min , Bao Lei , Jia Zheng , Cui Jianzhong , Wang Ping
Published: March 2019

Mg-7Zn-5Gd-0.6Zr (wt%) alloy strengthened with quasicrystal phase (I-Mg3Zn6Gd phase) is prepared through hot extrusion and subsequent heat treatments. The low temperature (range from 25 °C to 250 °C) superplastic deformation behavior of the as-extruded, aging treated (T5) and solution and aging treated (T6) alloys are investigated. The results reveal that a superior superplastic elongation of 863% is obtained at 250 °C and strain rate of 1.67 × 10−3 s−1 and the elongation of this alloy increases with the increasing tensile temperature. Detailed microstructural analyses show that I-Mg3Zn6Gd phase and W-Mg3Gd2Zn3 phase are crushed into small particles during extrusion. A high density of nanoscale I-phase precipitates after T5 treatment. Dynamic recrystallization occurs in as-extruded Mg-7Zn-5Gd-0.6Zr alloy. The T5-treated Mg-7Zn-5Gd-0.6Zr alloy shows a relatively weak basal texture intensity, a large number fraction of high angle boundaries and a very finer grain structure (3.01 μm). During superplastic deformation, the nanoscale I-phase is slightly elongated and the microstructure is still equiaxed grains. The superplastic mechanism of the alloy is grain boundary sliding (GBS) accommodated by dislocation movement and static recrystallization. The cavity nucleation at the nanoscale I-phase/α-Mg matrix boundaries or grain boundaries and the cavity stringer formation leads to final fracture.
Spicatoside A derived from Liriope platyphylla root ethanol extract inhibits hepatitis E virus genotype 3 replication in vitro
Authors: Park Gayoung , Parveen Amna , Kim Jung-Eun , Cho Kyo Hee , Kim Sun Yeou , Park Bang Ju , Song Yoon-Jae
Published: March 2019

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the causative agent of hepatitis E in humans worldwide. Although hepatitis E is self-limiting without chronic infection development, HEV infection often leads to severe liver diseases causing high mortality in pregnant women in addition to chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis in immunosuppressed patients. In this study, we investigated the effect of a Liriope platyphylla ethanol extract (LPE) on HEV replication. Interestingly, LPE suppressed replication of the genotype 3 HEV replicon. Sequential solvent fractionation revealed that the ethyl acetate (EA) fraction of LPE exerts the most potent inhibitory effects. With the aid of activity-guided fractionation and multi-step column chromatography, spicatoside A was subsequently isolated in the EA fraction of LPE and specifically shown to exert inhibitory effects on replication of the genotype 3 HEV replicon. In addition, spicatoside A interfered with replication of the HEV genotype 3 strain 47832c and expression of HEV ORF2 capsid proteins. Our findings clearly support the potential utility of spicatoside A as an effective anti-HEV agent.
Different somatostatin and CXCR4 chemokine receptor expression in gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms depending on their origin
Authors: Mai Rebekka , Kaemmerer Daniel , Träger Tina , Neubauer Elisa , Sänger Jörg , Baum Richard P. , Schulz Stefan , Lupp Amelie
Published: March 2019

Somatostatin receptors (SST), especially SST2A, are known for their overexpression in well-differentiated gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine neoplasms (GEP-NEN). The chemokine receptor CXCR4, in contrast, is considered to be present mainly in highly proliferative and advanced tumors. However, comprehensive data are still lacking on potential differences in SST or CXCR4 expression pattern in GEP-NEN in dependence on the place of origin. Overall, 412 samples from 165 GEP-NEN patients, comprising both primary tumors (PT) and metastases (MTS), originating from different parts of the gastrointestinal tract or the pancreas were evaluated for SST and CXCR4 expression by means of immunohistochemistry using monoclonal antibodies. SST2A was present in 85% of PT with a high intensity of expression, followed by SST5 (23%), CXCR4 (21%), SST3 (10%), SST1 (9%), and SST4 (4%). PT displayed higher SST2A and chromogranin A (CgA) expression levels than MTS. In both PT and MTS lower SST2A and CgA expression levels were found in tumors originating from the appendix or colon, compared to tumors from other origins. Tumors derived from appendix or colon were associated with significantly worse patient outcomes. Positive correlations were noted between SST2A and CgA as well as between CXCR4 and Ki-67 expression levels. SST2A and CgA negativity of the tumors was significantly associated with poor patient outcomes. All in all, SST2A was the most prominent receptor expressed in the GEP-NEN samples investigated. However, expression levels varied considerably depending on the location of the primary tumor.
Pressure-sensitive liquid phase epitaxy of highly-doped n-type SiGe crystals for thermoelectric applications
Authors: Li Hung-Wei , Chang Chih-Wei
Published: March 2019

Based on recent works, the most desirable high-temperature thermoelectric material would be highly-doped Si1−xGex crystals or films with sufficiently high Ge concentrations so that simultaneous enhancing the power factor and wave-engineering of phonons could be possible on the ballistic thermal conductor. However, available thin film deposition methods such as metal organic chemical vapor deposition, electron-beam evaporation, or sputtering are unable to produce highly-doped SiGe single crystals or thick films of high quality. To fabricate the desired material, we here employ liquid phase epitaxy to make highly-doped (up to 2% GaP doping) SiGe crystals with minimized concentration variations on Si (111) and (100) substrates. We find that growing Si1−xGex (x = 0.05~0.25) crystals from Ga solvents at relatively high vacuum pressure (0.1 torr) displays significant deviations from previous calculated phase diagram. Moreover, doping GaP into SiGe is found to affect the solubility of the system but not the resulting Ge concentration. We thus plot a new pressure-dependent phase diagram. We further demonstrate that the new pressure-induced liquid phase epitaxy technique can yield Si1−xGex crystals of much higher Ge concentrations (x > 0.8) than those grown by the conventional method.
Multiomics analysis profile acute liver injury module clusters to compare the therapeutic efficacy of bifendate and muaddil sapra
Authors: Talifu Ainiwaer , Saimaiti Refuhati , Maitinuer Yusufu , Liu Geyu , Abudureyimu Miernisha , Xin Xuelei
Published: March 2019

The pathogenesis of acute liver injury has been plagued by biologists and physicians. We know little about its therapeutic mechanism. Therefore, this study explored the mechanism of bifendate and muaddil sapra in the treatment of acute liver injury. Firstly, co-expression and cluster analysis of disease-related genes were carried out, and the Go function and KEGG pathway of modules and related genes were identified. Secondly, pivot analysis of modules can identify key regulators. On the other hand, based on the acute liver injury induced by CCl4, we use the combined analysis of proteomics and transcriptome to find therapeutic targets and related mechanisms of drugs. A total of 21 dysfunction modules were obtained, which were significantly involved in immune system, hepatitis and other related functions and pathways. Transcriptome analysis showed 117 targets for bifendate treatment, while 119 for muaddil sapra. Through exploring the mechanism, we found that the two drugs could modulate the module genes. Moreover, bifendate regulate the dysfunction module through ncRNA (SNORD43 and RNU11). Muaddil sapra can mediate dysfunction modules not only by regulating ncRNA (PRIM2 and PIP5K1B), but also by regulating TF (STAT1 and IRF8), thus having a wider therapeutic potential. On the other hand, proteome analysis showed that bifendate mainly regulated Rac2, Fermt3 and Plg, while muaddil sapra mainly regulated Sqle and Stat1. In addition, muaddil sapra regulates less metabolic related proteins to make them more effective. Overall, this study not only provides basic theory for further study of the complex pathogenesis of acute liver injury, but also provides valuable reference for clinical use of bifendate and muaddil sapra in the treatment of acute liver injury.
Robust optomechanical state transfer under composite phase driving
Authors: Ventura-Velázquez C. , Jaramillo Ávila Benjamín , Kyoseva Elica , Rodríguez-Lara B. M.
Published: March 2019

We propose a technique for robust optomechanical state transfer using phase-tailored composite pulse driving with constant amplitude. Our proposal is inspired by coherent control techniques in lossless driven qubits. We demonstrate that there exist optimal phases for maximally robust excitation exchange in lossy strongly-driven optomechanical state transfer. In addition, our proposed composite phase driving also protects against random variations in the parameters of the system. However, this driving can take the system out of its steady state. For this reason, we use the ideal optimal phases to produce smooth sequences that both maintain the system close to its steady state and optimize the robustness of optomechanical state transfer.
Repeated administration of the NSAID meloxicam alters the plasma and urine lipidome
Authors: Rivera-Velez Sol M. , Broughton-Neiswanger Liam E. , Suarez Martin , Piñeyro Pablo , Navas Jinna , Chen Sandy , Hwang Julianne , Villarino Nicolas F.
Published: March 2019

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), such as meloxicam, are the mainstay for treating painful and inflammatory conditions in animals and humans; however, the repeated administration ofNSAIDscan cause adverse effects, limiting the long-term administration of these drugs to some patients. The primary aim of this study was to determine the effects of repeated meloxicam administration on the feline plasma and urine lipidome. Cats (n = 12) were treated subcutaneously with either saline solution or 0.3 mg/kg body weight of meloxicam daily for up to 31 days. Plasma and urine lipidome were determined by LC-MS before the first treatment and at 4, 9 and 13 and 17 days after the first administration of meloxicam. The repeated administration of meloxicam altered the feline plasma and urine lipidome as demonstrated by multivariate statistical analysis. The intensities of 94 out of 195 plasma lipids were altered by the repeated administration of meloxicam to cats (p < 0.05). Furthermore, we identified 12 lipids in plasma and 10 lipids in urine that could serve as biomarker candidates for discriminating animals receiving NSAIDs from healthy controls. Expanding our understanding about the effects of NSAIDs in the body could lead to the discovery of mechanism(s) associated with intolerance to NSAIDs.
Rg6, a rare ginsenoside, inhibits systemic inflammation through the induction of interleukin-10 and microRNA-146a
Authors: Paik Seungwha , Choe Jin Ho , Choi Ga-Eun , Kim Ji-Eun , Kim Jin-Man , Song Gyu Yong , Jo Eun-Kyeong
Published: March 2019

The immunobiological functions of Rg6, a rare ginsenoside from ginseng, have been largely unreported. In this paper, we demonstrate that Rg6 has a significant immunosuppressive function on Toll-like receptor (TLR) 4-induced systemic inflammatory responses. Rg6 was found to negatively regulate pro-inflammatory responses and severityin vivo, and thus induced recovery in mice with lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced septic shock and cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis. Rg6 treatment also facilitated recovery in mice with LPS-induced lung damage via reduced neutrophil infiltration and tumor necrosis factor-α expression in lung tissues. Rg6 injection also downregulated pro-inflammatory cytokines and increased the levels of interleukin (IL)-10 in the serum of septic mice. Mechanistically, Rg6 did not induce TLR negative regulators, such as A20 and IRAK-M, in bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs). Instead, addition of Rg6 to LPS-activated BMDMs augmented IL-10 expression, whereas it inhibited inflammatory signaling, such as by nuclear factor κB activation and mitogen-activated protein kinases. Furthermore, Rg6 significantly induced miR-146a, an operator miRNA for anti-inflammation, in BMDMs. Collectively, these data indicate that Rg6 inhibits inflammatory responses through the induction of IL-10 and miR-146a.
Growth of Plasma-Treated Corn Seeds under Realistic Conditions
Authors: Ahn Chisung , Gill John , Ruzic David N.
Published: March 2019

In this study, the effect of the plasma treatment on corn seeds is investigated. Corn seeds were treated uniformly without burning or blackening by three kinds of plasma apparatus: RF plasma in vacuum, microwave-driven atmospheric-pressure plasma, DBD atmospheric-pressure plasma, and two other treatments: vacuum exposure only, and using plasma-activated water in the seed coating process, to investigate growth rate changes under realistic conditions. Each treatment was performed on a total of 1512 corn seeds. Seeds from each experimental condition were treated with the recommended rate of Poncho/VOTiVO with Acceleron, a commercial biological seed treatment that helps to protect the seeds from fungus, insects, and nematodes after planting. The 1512 seeds were divided evenly into three replications with 84 seeds planted for each replication at six unique locations across central Illinois. The results for germination, growth, and product yield over the 2017 growing season is presented. Overall no statistically significant difference in the yield of corn harvested was found between the control and any of the five treatments. This is likely due to the already near-100% germination rate of the corn hybrid used in the study and the use of the Poncho/VOTiVO protective coating on every sample.
Reduced sperm telomere length in individuals with varicocele is associated with reduced genomic integrity
Authors: Tahamtan Sahar , Tavalaee Marziyeh , Izadi Tayebeh , Barikrow Nooshin , Zakeri Zahra , Lockshin Richard A. , Abbasi Homayoun , Nasr- Esfahani Mohammad Hosseini
Published: March 2019

Varicocele, defined as enlarged varicose veins in the scrotum, is the most common identifiable cause of male infertility. There are significant correlations between oxidative stress and varicocele-related infertility due to testicular hyperthermia, which can result in low sperm function. In addition, recent excessive oxidative stress can affect sperm telomere length and integrity of sperm DNA. Therefore, we assessed sperm telomere length as a potential marker of paternal genome integrity and leukocyte telomere length as an internal control (real-time PCR), along with sperm chromatin status (TUNEL and chromomycin A3 assay), and lipid peroxidation (Bodipy probe) in 18 infertile men with grade II or III varicocele, and 20 fertile men. Means of sperm parameters, sperm and leukocyte telomere length were significantly lower, while means of sperm DNA fragmentation, protamine deficiency, and lipid peroxidation were significantly higher in infertile men with varicocele compared to fertile men. Therefore, shortened telomere length in sperm and leukocytes is likely associated with increased oxidative stress related to the state of varicocele, which also accounts for increase in sperm DNA fragmentation. Thus, assessment of leukocyte telomere length could be taken as an indicator of antioxidant capacity in an individual, which also affects sperm function.
Hospital Results of a Single Center Database for Stentless Xenograft Use in a Full Root Technique in Over 970 Patients
Authors: Easo Jerry , Weymann Alexander , Hölzl Philipp , Horst Michael , Eichstaedt Harald , Mashhour Ahmed , Zhigalov Konstantin , Szczechowicz Marcin , Thomas Rohit Philip , Sabashnikov Anton , Dapunt Otto E.
Published: March 2019

Our aim was to analyse the hospital outcome for the worldwide largest series of stentless bioroot xenografts (Medtronic Freestyle) as full root replacement in a single centre over a period of 18 years. Retrospective data analysis was performed for the entire cohort of patients undergoing aortic root surgery with the Medtronic Freestyle valve prosthesis. Logistic regression analysis was performed to analyse predictors of in-hospital mortality. 971 patients underwent aortic full root replacement with the Medtronic Freestyle valve in the period from 1999–2017, with an average age of 68.8 ± 10.3y and gender distribution of 608:363 (male:female). Concomitant surgery was performed in 693 patients (71.4%). In-hospital all-comers mortality was 9.8% (95 patients), with the respective highest risk profiles including dissections (6.4%), endocarditis (5.6%) and re-do procedures (12.5%). In-hospital mortality for elective patients was 7.6% while isolated aortic root replacement demonstrated a mortality of 3.6%. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated age (OR 1.05, p = 0.005), dissection (OR 5.78, p < 0.001) and concomitant bypass surgery (OR 2.68, p < 0.001) as preoperative risk factors for the entire cohort. Postoperative analysis demonstrated myocardial infarction (OR 48.6, p < 0.001) and acute kidney injury (OR 20.2, p < 0.001) to be independent risk factors influencing mortality. This analysis presents a work-through of all patients with stentless bioroot treatment without positive selection in a high-volume clinical center with the largest experience world-wide for this form of complex surgery. Isolated aortic root replacement could be performed at acceptable operative risk for this technically-challenging procedure.