bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Magnetic Fabric of Gouge Mimics the Coseismic Focal Mechanism of the Chi‐Chi Earthquake (1999, Mw 7.6)
Authors: Chou Yu‐Min , Aubourg Charles , Yeh En‐Chao , Song Sheng‐Rong , Lin Yi‐Kai , Humbert Fabien , Jiang Xiaodong , Lee Teh‐Quei
Published: October 2020

We present a magnetic fabric investigation of small oriented rock fragments from gouges and wall rocks from the Chelungpu fault (Taiwan), where the Chi‐Chi earthquake occurred (Mw 7.6, 1999). Samples are obtained from surface outcrops and at a depth of ~1 km, including the 3‐mm‐thick Chi‐Chi principal slip zone. Wall rocks at depth show magnetic foliation roughly parallel to bedding, whereas they are oblique at the surface. Within the gouges, the mean shape of magnetic ellipsoid is oblate, and the degree of anisotropy is up to 12%. The magnetic foliation diverges of ~40° from the fault plane, compatible with a simple shear westward. The magnetic lineation is oblique, resulting probably from coseismic and interseismic records. The reconstructed focal mechanism from the magnetic fabric closely matches the focal mechanism solutions for the Chi‐Chi earthquake. Our work demonstrates that magnetic fabric of gouge fragments can bring valuable kinematic information on modern earthquakes.
Drivers of Biogeochemical Variability in a Central California Kelp Forest: Implications for Local Amelioration of Ocean Acidification
Authors: Hirsh Heidi K. , Nickols Kerry J. , Takeshita Yuichiro , Traiger Sarah B. , Mucciarone David A. , Monismith Stephen , Dunbar Robert B.
Published: October 2020

Kelp forests are among the world's most productive marine ecosystems, and they have the potential to locally ameliorate ocean acidification (OA). In order to understand the contribution of kelp metabolism to local biogeochemistry, we must first quantify the natural variability and the relative contributions of physical and biological drivers to biogeochemical changes in space and time. We deployed an extensive instrument array in Monterey Bay, CA, inside and outside of a kelp forest to assess the degree to which giant kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) locally ameliorates present‐day acidic conditions which we expect to be exacerbated by OA. Temperature, pH, and O2 variability occurred at semidiurnal, diurnal (tidal and diel), and longer upwelling event periods. Mean conditions were driven by offshore wind forcing and the delivery of upwelled water via nearshore internal bores. While near‐surface pH and O2 were similar inside and outside the kelp forest, surface pH was elevated inside the kelp compared to outside, suggesting that the kelp canopy locally increased surface pH. We observed the greatest acidification stress deeper in the water column where pCO2 reached levels as high as 1,300 μatm and aragonite undersaturation (ΩAr < 1) occurred on several occasions. At this site, kelp canopy modification of seawater properties, and thus any ameliorating effect against acidification, is greatest in a narrow band of surface water. The spatial disconnect between stress exposure at depth and reduction of acidification stress at the surface warrants further assessment of utilizing kelp forests as provisioners of local OA mitigation.
Ionospheric Vertical Correlation Distances: Estimation From ISR Data, Analysis, and Implications For Ionospheric Data Assimilation
Authors: Forsythe Victoriya V. , Azeem Irfan , Crowley Geoff , Themens David R.
Published: October 2020

The construction of the background covariance matrix is an important component of ionospheric data assimilation algorithms, such as Ionospheric Data Assimilation Four‐Dimensional (IDA4D). It is a matrix that describes the correlations between all the grid points in the model domain and determines the transition from the data‐driven to model‐driven regions. The vertical component of this matrix also controls the shape of the assimilated electron density profile. To construct the background covariance matrix, the information about the spatial ionospheric correlations is required. This paper focuses on the vertical component of the model covariance matrix. Data from five different incoherent scatter radars (ISR) are analyzed to derive the vertical correlation lengths for the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) 2016 model errors, because it is the background model for IDA4D. The vertical distribution of the correlations is found to be asymmetric about the reference altitude around which the correlations are calculated, with significant differences between the correlation lengths above and below the reference altitude. It is found that the correlation distances not only increase exponentially with height but also have an additional bump‐on‐tail feature. The location and the magnitude of this bump are different for different radars. Solar flux binning introduces more pronounced changes in the correlation distances in comparison to magnetic local time (MLT) and seasonal binning of the data. The latitudinal distribution of vertical correlation lengths is presented and can be applied to the construction of the vertical component of the background model covariance matrix in data assimilation models that use IRI or similar empirical models as the background.
FGFR3△7–9 promotes tumor progression via the phosphorylation and destabilization of ten-eleven translocation-2 in human hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Jin Zhijian , Feng Haoran , Liang Juyong , Jing Xiaoqian , Zhao Qiwu , Zhan Ling , Shen Baiyong , Cheng Xi , Su Liping , Qiu Weihua
Published: October 2020

Overexpression of fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3) correlates with more severe clinical features of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Our previous study has shown that FGFR3∆7–9, a novel splicing mutation of FGFR3, contributes significantly to HCC malignant character, but the epigenetic mechanism is still elusive. In this study, through mass spectrometry and co-immunoprecipitation studies, we discover a close association between FGFR3∆7–9 and the DNA demethylase Ten-Eleven Translocation-2 (TET2). Unlike other certain types of cancer, mutation of TET2 is rare in HCC. However, activation of FGFR3∆7–9 by FGF1 dramatically shortens TET2 half-life. FGFR3∆7–9, but not wild-type FGFR3, directly interacts with TET2 and phosphorylates TET2 at Y1902 site, leading to the ubiquitination and proteasome-mediated degradation of TET2. Overexpression of a phospho-deficient mutant TET2 (Y1902F) significantly reduces the oncogenic potential of FGFR3∆7–9 in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, FGFR3∆7–9 significantly enhances HCC cell proliferation through the TET2-PTEN-AKT pathway. Specifically, TET2 offsets the elevation of p-AKT level induced by FGFR3∆7–9 through directly binding to PTEN promoter and increasing 5-hmC. Therefore, through phosphorylation and inhibition of TET2, FGFR3∆7–9 reduces PTEN expression and substantiates AKT activation to stimulate HCC proliferation. Together, this study identifies TET2 as a key regulator of the oncogenic role of FGFR3∆7–9 in HCC carcinogenesis and sheds light on new therapeutic strategies for HCC treatment.
The miR-30a-5p/CLCF1 axis regulates sorafenib resistance and aerobic glycolysis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Zhongqiang , Tan Xiao , Luo Jing , Yao Hongliang , Si Zhongzhou , Tong Jing-Shan
Published: October 2020

HCC (hepatocellular carcinoma) is a major health threat for the Chinese population and has poor prognosis because of strong resistance to chemotherapy in patients. For instance, a considerable challenge for the treatment of HCC is sorafenib resistance. The aberrant glucose metabolism in cancer cells aerobic glycolysis is associated with resistance to chemotherapeutic agents. Drug-resistance cells and tumors were exposed to sorafenib to establish sorafenib-resistance cell lines and tumors. Western blotting and real-time PCR or IHC staining were used to analyze the level of CLCF1 in the sorafenib resistance cell lines or tumors. The aerobic glycolysis was analyzed by ECAR assay. The mechanism mediating the high expression of CLCF1 in sorafenib-resistant cells and its relationships with miR-130-5p was determined by bioinformatic analysis, dual luciferase reporter assays, real-time PCR, and western blotting. The in vivo effect was evaluated by xenografted with nude mice. The relation of CLCF1 and miR-30a-5p was determined in patients’ samples. In this study, we report the relationship between sorafenib resistance and increased glycolysis in HCC cells. We also show the vital role of CLCF1 in promoting glycolysis by activating PI3K/AKT signaling and its downstream genes, thus participating in glycolysis in sorafenib-resistant HCC cells. Furthermore, we also show that miR-30a-5p directly targets CLCF1 and that sorafenib-mediated suppression of miR-30a-5p results in the upregulation of CLCF1 in HCC cells resistant to sorafenib. We also found that when a cholesterol modified agomiR-30a-5p was delivered systemically to mice harboring sorafenib-resistant HCC tumors, tumor growth decreased significantly. There is an uncharacterized mechanism of biochemical resistance to hormone therapies orchestrated by the miR-30a-5p/CLCF1 axis to mediate sorafenib resistance and aerobic glycolysis in HCC. Therefore, this study indicates that targeting the miR-30a-5p/CLCF1 axis may hold promise for therapeutic intervention in HCC sorafenib resistance patients.
Expanding the genetic spectrum of choroideremia in an Australian cohort: report of five novel CHM variants
Authors: McLaren Terri L. , De Roach John N. , Thompson Jennifer A. , Chen Fred K. , Mackey David A. , Hoffmann Ling , Urwin Isabella R. , Lamey Tina M.
Published: October 2020

Choroideremia is an X-linked chorioretinal dystrophy caused by mutations in the CHM gene. Several CHM gene replacement clinical trials are in advanced stages. In this study, we report the molecular confirmation of choroideremia in 14 Australian families sourced from the Australian Inherited Retinal Disease Registry and DNA Bank. Sixteen males (14 symptomatic) and 18 females (4 symptomatic; 14 obligate carriers) were identified for analysis. Participants’ DNA was analyzed for disease-causing CHM variants by Sanger sequencing, TaqMan qPCR and targeted NGS. We report phenotypic and genotypic data for the 14 symptomatic males and four females manifesting disease symptoms. A pathogenic or likely pathogenic CHM variant was detected in all families. Eight variants were previously reported, and five were novel. Two de novo variants were identified. We previously reported the molecular confirmation of choroideremia in 11 Australian families. This study expands the CHM genetically confirmed Australian cohort to 32 males and four affected carrier females.
A particle-field approach bridges phase separation and collective motion in active matter
Authors: Großmann Robert , Aranson Igor S. , Peruani Fernando
Published: October 2020

Whereas self-propelled hard discs undergo motility-induced phase separation, self-propelled rods exhibit a variety of nonequilibrium phenomena, including clustering, collective motion, and spatio-temporal chaos. In this work, we present a theoretical framework representing active particles by continuum fields. This concept combines the simplicity of alignment-based models, enabling analytical studies, and realistic models that incorporate the shape of self-propelled objects explicitly. By varying particle shape from circular to ellipsoidal, we show how nonequilibrium stresses acting among self-propelled rods destabilize motility-induced phase separation and facilitate orientational ordering, thereby connecting the realms of scalar and vectorial active matter. Though the interaction potential is strictly apolar, both, polar and nematic order may emerge and even coexist. Accordingly, the symmetry of ordered states is a dynamical property in active matter. The presented framework may represent various systems including bacterial colonies, cytoskeletal extracts, or shaken granular media.
The role of allyl ammonium salts in palladium-catalyzed cascade reactions towards the synthesis of spiro-fused heterocycles
Authors: Ye Fei , Ge Yao , Spannenberg Anke , Neumann Helfried , Beller Matthias
Published: October 2020

There is a continuous need for designing new and improved synthetic methods aiming at minimizing reaction steps while increasing molecular complexity. In this respect, catalytic, one-pot cascade methodologies constitute an ideal tool for the construction of complex molecules with high chemo-, regio-, and stereoselectivity. Herein, we describe two general and efficient cascade procedures for the synthesis of spiro-fused heterocylces. This transformation combines selective nucleophilic substitution (SN2′), palladium-catalyzed Heck and C–H activation reactions in a cascade manner. The use of allylic ammonium salts and specific Pd catalysts are key to the success of the transformations. The synthetic utility of these methodologies is showcased by the preparation of 48 spiro-fused dihydrobenzofuranes and indolines including a variety of fluorinated derivatives.
General destabilizing effects of eutrophication on grassland productivity at multiple spatial scales
Authors: Hautier Yann , Zhang Pengfei , Loreau Michel , Wilcox Kevin R. , Seabloom Eric W. , Borer Elizabeth T. , Byrnes Jarrett E. K. , Koerner Sally E. , Komatsu Kimberly J. , Lefcheck Jonathan S. , Hector Andy , Adler Peter B. , Alberti Juan , Arnillas Carlos A. , Bakker Jonathan D. , Brudvig Lars A. , Bugalho Miguel N. , Cadotte Marc , Caldeira Maria C. , Carroll Oliver , Crawley Mick , Collins Scott L. , Daleo Pedro , Dee Laura E. , Eisenhauer Nico , Eskelinen Anu , Fay Philip A. , Gilbert Benjamin , Hansar Amandine , Isbell Forest , Knops Johannes M. H. , MacDougall Andrew S. , McCulley Rebecca L. , Moore Joslin L. , Morgan John W. , Mori Akira S. , Peri Pablo L. , Pos Edwin T. , Power Sally A. , Price Jodi N. , Reich Peter B. , Risch Anita C. , Roscher Christiane , Sankaran Mahesh , Schütz Martin , Smith Melinda , Stevens Carly , Tognetti Pedro M. , Virtanen Risto , Wardle Glenda M. , Wilfahrt Peter A. , Wang Shaopeng
Published: October 2020

Eutrophication is a widespread environmental change that usually reduces the stabilizing effect of plant diversity on productivity in local communities. Whether this effect is scale dependent remains to be elucidated. Here, we determine the relationship between plant diversity and temporal stability of productivity for 243 plant communities from 42 grasslands across the globe and quantify the effect of chronic fertilization on these relationships. Unfertilized local communities with more plant species exhibit greater asynchronous dynamics among species in response to natural environmental fluctuations, resulting in greater local stability (alpha stability). Moreover, neighborhood communities that have greater spatial variation in plant species composition within sites (higher beta diversity) have greater spatial asynchrony of productivity among communities, resulting in greater stability at the larger scale (gamma stability). Importantly, fertilization consistently weakens the contribution of plant diversity to both of these stabilizing mechanisms, thus diminishing the positive effect of biodiversity on stability at differing spatial scales. Our findings suggest that preserving grassland functional stability requires conservation of plant diversity within and among ecological communities.
Influence of phosphate dosing on biofilms development on lead in chlorinated drinking water bioreactors
Authors: Del Olmo Gonzalo , Ahmad Arslan , Jensen Henriette , Karunakaran Esther , Rosales Esther , Calero Preciado Carolina , Gaskin Paul , Douterelo Isabel
Published: October 2020

Phosphate dosing is used by water utilities to prevent plumbosolvency in water supply networks. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding biofilm formation on lead and plastic materials when phosphate concentrations are modified in drinking water systems. In this study, biofilms were grown over lead coupons and PVC tubes in bioreactors supplied with local drinking water treated to provide different phosphate doses (below 1, 1 and 2 mg/L) over a period of 28 days. A range of commercial iron pellets (GEH104 and WARP) were tested aiming to maintain phosphate levels below the average 1 mg/L found in drinking water. Changes in biofilm community structure in response to three different phosphate treatments were characterised by Illumina sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene for bacteria and the ITS2 gene for fungi. Scanning electron microscopy was used to visualise physical differences in biofilm development in two types of materials, lead and PVC. The experimental results from the kinetics of phosphate absorption showed that the GEH104 pellets were the best option to, in the long term, reduce phosphate levels while preventing undesirable turbidity increases in drinking water. Phosphate-enrichment promoted a reduction of bacterial diversity but increased that of fungi in biofilms. Overall, higher phosphate levels selected for microorganisms with enhanced capabilities related to phosphorus metabolism and heavy metal resistance. This research brings new insights regarding the influence of different phosphate concentrations on mixed-species biofilms formation and drinking water quality, which are relevant to inform best management practices in drinking water treatment.
Quantum-enhanced interferometry with large heralded photon-number states
Authors: Thekkadath G. S. , Mycroft M. E. , Bell B. A. , Wade C. G. , Eckstein A. , Phillips D. S. , Patel R. B. , Buraczewski A. , Lita A. E. , Gerrits T. , Nam S. W. , Stobińska M. , Lvovsky A. I. , Walmsley I. A.
Published: October 2020

Quantum phenomena such as entanglement can improve fundamental limits on the sensitivity of a measurement probe. In optical interferometry, a probe consisting of N entangled photons provides up to a $$\sqrt{N}$$

N

enhancement in phase sensitivity compared to a classical probe of the same energy. Here, we employ high-gain parametric down-conversion sources and photon-number-resolving detectors to perform interferometry with heralded quantum probes of sizes up to N = 8 (i.e. measuring up to 16-photon coincidences). Our probes are created by injecting heralded photon-number states into an interferometer, and in principle provide quantum-enhanced phase sensitivity even in the presence of significant optical loss. Our work paves the way toward quantum-enhanced interferometry using large entangled photonic states.
From magnetic order to quantum disorder in the Zn-barlowite series of S = 1/2 kagomé antiferromagnets
Authors: Tustain Katherine , Ward-O’Brien Brendan , Bert Fabrice , Han Tianheng , Luetkens Hubertus , Lancaster Tom , Huddart Benjamin M. , Baker Peter J. , Clark Lucy
Published: October 2020

We report a comprehensive muon spectroscopy study of the Zn-barlowite series of $$S=\frac{1}{2}$$

S
=

1

2

kagomé antiferromagnets, ZnxCu4−x(OH)6FBr, for x = 0.00 to 0.99(1). By combining muon spin relaxation and rotation measurements with state-of-the-art density-functional theory muon-site calculations, we observe the formation of both μ–F and μ–OH complexes in Zn-barlowite. From these stopping sites, implanted muon spins reveal the suppression of long-range magnetic order into a possible quantum spin liquid state upon the increasing concentration of Zn-substitution. In the parent compound (x = 0), static long-range magnetic order below TN = 15 K manifests itself in the form of spontaneous oscillations in the time-dependent muon asymmetry signal consistent with the dipolar fields expected from the calculated muon stopping sites and the previously determined magnetic structure of barlowite. Meanwhile, in the x = 1.0 end-member of the series—in which antiferromagnetic kagomé layers of Cu2+$$S=\frac{1}{2}$$

S
=

1

2

moments are decoupled by diamagnetic Zn2+ ions—we observe that dynamic magnetic moment fluctuations persist down to at least 50 mK, indicative of a quantum disordered ground state. We demonstrate that this crossover from a static to dynamic magnetic ground state occurs for compositions of Zn-barlowite with x > 0.5, which bears resemblance to the dynamical behaviour of the widely studied Zn-paratacamite series that contains the quantum spin liquid candidate herbertsmithite.
Model-driven design allows growth of Mycoplasma pneumoniae on serum-free media
Authors: Gaspari Erika , Malachowski Antoni , Garcia-Morales Luis , Burgos Raul , Serrano Luis , Martins dos Santos Vitor A. P. , Suarez-Diez Maria
Published: October 2020

Mycoplasma pneumoniaeis a slow-growing, human pathogen that causes atypical pneumonia. Because it lacks a cell wall, many antibiotics are ineffective. Due to its reduced genome and dearth of many biosynthetic pathways, this fastidious bacterium depends on rich, undefined medium for growth, which makes large-scale cultivation challenging and expensive. To understand factors limiting growth, we developed a genome-scale, constraint-based model ofM. pneumoniaecalled iEG158_mpn to describe the metabolic potential of this bacterium. We have put special emphasis on cell membrane formation to identify key lipid components to maximize bacterial growth. We have used this knowledge to predict essential components validated with in vitro serum-free media able to sustain growth. Our findings also show that glycolysis and lipid metabolism are much less efficient under hypoxia; these findings suggest that factors other than metabolism and membrane formation alone affect the growth ofM. pneumoniae. Altogether, our modelling approach allowed us to optimize medium composition, enabled growth in defined media and streamlined operational requirements, thereby providing the basis for stable, reproducible and less expensive production.
SignBase, a collection of geometric signs on mobile objects in the Paleolithic
Authors: Dutkiewicz Ewa , Russo Gabriele , Lee Saetbyul , Bentz Christian
Published: October 2020

In the Paleolithic, geometric signs are abundant. They appear in rock art as well as on mobile objects like artworks, tools, or personal ornaments. These signs are often interpreted as a reflection of symbolic thought and associated with the origin of cognitively modern behavior.SignBaseis a project collecting the wealth of geometric signs on mobile objects in the European Upper Paleolithic, African Middle Stone Age (MSA), as well as selected sites from the Near East and South East Asia. Currently, more than 500 objects of the Aurignacian techno-complex (ca. 43,000 to 30,000 years BP) are registered in SignBase. They are linked to information about geographic and archaeological provenience, the type of object and material, size and preservation, and respective literature references. We identify around 30 different sign types found on these objects across Europe in the Aurignacian and illustrate how SignBase can be used to analyze geographical clusters. Ultimately, we aim to enable quantitative analyses of abstract graphical expression before the emergence of writing.
Rapid growth inhibitory activity of a YafQ-family endonuclease toxin of the Helicobacter pylori tfs4 integrative and conjugative element
Authors: Boampong Kwadwo , Smith Stephanie L. , Delahay Robin M.
Published: October 2020

Prokaryotic and archaeal chromosomes encode a diversity of toxin–antitoxin (TA) systems that contribute to a variety of stress-induced cellular processes in addition to stability and maintenance of mobile elements. Here, we find DinJ-YafQ family TA systems to be broadly distributed amongst diverse phyla, consistent with other ParE/RelE superfamily TAs, but more unusually occurring as a multiplicity of species-specific subtypes. In the gastric pathogen Helicobacter pylori we identify six distinct subtypes, of which three are predominantly associated with the mobilome, including the disease-associated integrative and conjugative element (ICE), tfs4. Whereas, the ICE-encoded proteins have characteristic features of DinJ-YafQ family Type II TA systems in general, the toxin component is distinguished by a broad metal-ion-dependent endonuclease activity with specificity for both RNA and DNA. We show that the remarkably rapid growth inhibitory activity of the ICE toxin is a correlate of a C-terminal lysine doublet which likely augments catalytic activity by increasing the positive electrostatic potential in the vicinity of the conserved active site. Our collective results reveal a structural feature of an ICE TA toxin that influences substrate catalysis and toxin function which may be relevant to specific TA-mediated responses in diverse genera of bacteria.
Publisher Correction: Automated application of low energy electron irradiation enables inactivation of pathogen- and cell-containing liquids in biomedical research and production facilities
Authors: Fertey Jasmin , Thoma Martin , Beckmann Jana , Bayer Lea , Finkensieper Julia , Reißhauer Susann , Berneck Beatrice Sarah , Issmail Leila , Schönfelder Jessy , Casado Javier Portillo , Poremba Andre , Rögner Frank-Holm , Standfest Bastian , Makert Gustavo R. , Walcher Lia , Kistenmacher Ann-Kathrin , Fricke Stephan , Grunwald Thomas , Ulbert Sebastian
Published: October 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Crocus-derived compounds alter the aggregation pathway of Alzheimer’s Disease - associated beta amyloid protein
Authors: Koulakiotis Nikolaos Stavros , Purhonen Pasi , Gikas Evangelos , Hebert Hans , Tsarbopoulos Anthony
Published: October 2020

Natural products have played a dominant role in the discovery of lead compounds for the development of drugs aimed at the treatment of human diseases. This electrospray ionization-ion mobility spectrometry-mass spectrometry (ESI-IMS-MS)—based study demonstrates that dietary antioxidants, isolated components from the stigmas of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) may be effective in inhibiting Aβ fibrillogenesis, a neuropathological hallmark of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). This study reveals a substantial alteration in the monomer/oligomer distribution of Aβ1-40, concomitant with re-direction of fibril formation, induced by the natural product interaction. These alterations on the Aβ1-40 aggregation pathway are most prominent for trans-crocin-4 (TC4). Use of ESI-IMS-MS, electron microscopy alongside Thioflavin-T kinetics, and the interpretation of 3-dimensional Driftscope plots indicate a correlation of these monomer/oligomer distribution changes with alterations to Aβ1-40 amyloid formation. The latter could prove instrumental in the development of novel aggregation inhibitors for the prevention, or treatment of AD.
Single shot acquisition of spatially resolved spin wave dispersion relations using X-ray microscopy
Authors: Träger Nick , Groß Felix , Förster Johannes , Baumgaertl Korbinian , Stoll Hermann , Weigand Markus , Schütz Gisela , Grundler Dirk , Gräfe Joachim
Published: October 2020

For understanding magnonic materials the fundamental characterization of their frequency response is essential. However, determining full dispersion relations and real space wavelength measurements are challenging and time-consuming tasks. We present an approach for spin wave excitation by a modified Sinc pulse, which combines a cosine signal with a conventional Sinc function. The resulting adjustable frequency bands lead to a broadband spin wave excitation at uniform power levels. Subsequently, time resolved scanning transmission X-ray microscopy is used for direct imaging of all excited spin waves in real space. To demonstrate the capabilities of this approach, a modified Sinc excitation of an ultra-thin yttrium-iron-garnet film is shown that simultaneously reveals phase, amplitude, and k-space information from a single measurement. Consequently, this approach allows a fast and thorough access to the full dispersion relation including spatial maps of the individual spin wave modes, enabling complete characterization of magnonic materials down to the nanoscale in real and reciprocal space.
Author Correction: Evaluation of Radiation dosimetry of 99mTc-HYNIC-PSMA and imaging in prostate cancer
Authors: Zhang Jianping , Zhang Jiangang , Xu Xiaoping , Lu Linjun , Hu Silong , Liu Chang , Cheng Jingyi , Song Shaoli , Zhang Yingjian , Shi L. Q.
Published: October 2020

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper.
Combination of syringaresinol–di–O–β-d-glucoside and chlorogenic acid shows behavioral pharmacological anxiolytic activity and activation of hippocampal BDNF–TrkB signaling
Authors: Miyazaki Shouhei , Fujita Yoshio , Oikawa Hirotaka , Takekoshi Hideo , Soya Hideaki , Ogata Masato , Fujikawa Takahiko
Published: October 2020

Mental stress, such as anxiety and conflict, causes physiological changes such as dysregulation of autonomic nervous activity, depression, and gastric ulcers. It also induces glucocorticoid production and changes in hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. We previously reported that Acanthopanax senticosus HARMS (ASH) exhibited anxiolytic activity. Thus, we attempted to identify the anxiolytic constituents of ASH and investigated its influence on hippocampal BDNF protein expression in male Sprague Dawley rats administered chlorogenic acid (CHA), ( +)-syringaresinol–di–O–β-d-glucoside (SYG), or a mixture of both (Mix) for 1 week using the open field test (OFT) and improved elevated beam walking (IEBW) test. As with ASH and the benzodiazepine anxiolytic cloxazolam (CLO), Mix treatment significantly increased locomotor activity in the OFT. CHA and Mix increased the time spent in the open arm in the IEBW test. SYG and Mix treatment inhibited the significant increase in normalized low-frequency power, indicative of sympathetic nervous activity, and significant decrease in normalized high-frequency power, indicative of parasympathetic nervous activity, as observed in the IEBW test. SYG and Mix treatment significantly increased hippocampal BDNF protein expression. The combination of CHA and SYG possibly induces anxiolytic behavior and modulates autonomic regulation, activates hippocampal BDNF signaling as with ASH.
Computing the adaptive cycle
Authors: Castell Wolfgang zu , Schrenk Hannah
Published: October 2020

Gunderson’s and Holling’s adaptive cycle metaphor provides a qualitative description of the development of a dynamically evolving complex system. According to the metaphor, a complex system alternately passes through phases of stability and predictability and phases of reorganization and stochasticity. So far, there have been no attempts to quantify the underlying notions in a way which is independent of the concrete realization of the system. We propose a method which can be applied in a generic way to estimate a system’s position within the adaptive cycle as well as to identify drivers of change. We demonstrate applicability and flexibility of our method by three different case studies: Analyzing data obtained from a simulation of a model of interaction of abstract genotypes, we show that our approach is able to capture the nature of these interactions. We then study European economies as systems of economic state variables to illustrate the ability of system comparison. Finally, we identify drivers of change in a plant ecosystem in the prairie-forest. We hereby confirm the conceptual dynamics of the adaptive cycle and thus underline its usability in understanding system dynamics.
Characterization of a novel model of global forebrain ischaemia–reperfusion injury in mice and comparison with focal ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke
Authors: Lee Natasha Ting , Selan Carly , Chia Joanne S. J. , Sturgeon Sharelle A. , Wright David K. , Zamani Akram , Pereira Melrine , Nandurkar Harshal H. , Sashindranath Maithili
Published: October 2020

Stroke is caused by obstructed blood flow (ischaemia) or unrestricted bleeding in the brain (haemorrhage). Global brain ischaemia occurs after restricted cerebral blood flow e.g. during cardiac arrest. Following ischaemic injury, restoration of blood flow causes ischaemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury which worsens outcome. Secondary injury mechanisms after any stroke are similar, and encompass inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, blood–brain barrier (BBB) damage and apoptosis. We developed a new model of transient global forebrain I/R injury (dual carotid artery ligation; DCAL) and compared the manifestations of this injury with those in a conventional I/R injury model (middle-cerebral artery occlusion; MCAo) and with intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH; collagenase model). MRI revealed that DCAL produced smaller bilateral lesions predominantly localised to the striatum, whereas MCAo produced larger focal corticostriatal lesions. After global forebrain ischaemia mice had worse overall neurological scores, although quantitative locomotor assessment showed MCAo and ICH had significantly worsened mobility. BBB breakdown was highest in the DCAL model while apoptotic activity was highest after ICH. VCAM-1 upregulation was specific to ischaemic models only. Differential transcriptional upregulation of pro-inflammatory chemokines and cytokines and TLRs was seen in the three models. Our findings offer a unique insight into the similarities and differences in how biological processes are regulated after different types of stroke. They also establish a platform for analysis of therapies such as endothelial protective and anti-inflammatory agents that can be applied to all types of stroke.
Interactions between the microbiome and mating influence the female’s transcriptional profile in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Delbare Sofie Y. N. , Ahmed-Braimah Yasir H. , Wolfner Mariana F. , Clark Andrew G.
Published: October 2020

Drosophila melanogaster females undergo a variety of post-mating changes that influence their activity, feeding behavior, metabolism, egg production and gene expression. These changes are induced either by mating itself or by sperm or seminal fluid proteins. In addition, studies have shown that axenic females—those lacking a microbiome—have altered fecundity compared to females with a microbiome, and that the microbiome of the female’s mate can influence reproductive success. However, the extent to which post-mating changes in transcript abundance are affected by microbiome state is not well-characterized. Here we investigated fecundity and the post-mating transcript abundance profile of axenic or control females after mating with either axenic or control males. We observed interactions between the female’s microbiome and her mating status: transcripts of genes involved in reproduction and genes with neuronal functions were differentially abundant depending on the females’ microbiome status, but only in mated females. In addition, immunity genes showed varied responses to either the microbiome, mating, or a combination of those two factors. We further observed that the male’s microbiome status influences the fecundity of both control and axenic females, while only influencing the transcriptional profile of axenic females. Our results indicate that the microbiome plays a vital role in the post-mating switch of the female’s transcriptome.
New strategies for prevention of HIV among Japanese men who have sex with men: a mathematical model
Authors: Gilmour Stuart , Peng Liping , Li Jinghua , Oka Shinichi , Tanuma Junko
Published: October 2020

HIV prevalence in Japan continues to increase among men who have sex with men (MSM). We built a mathematical model to describe the HIV epidemic, including acute infection and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and projected the model to 2050. We compared current testing and treatment policies, a scenario where Japan achieves UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets, three PrEP scenarios defined by different coverage levels of 25%, 50%, and 75% among the 20% of MSM with the highest risk behavior, and combinations of these scenarios. With no change in interventions prevalence of HIV among MSM will rise to 9.0% in 2050. If Japan achieves full UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets, 84.9% of these infections would be averted. Under 50% PrEP with no expansion of testing and treatment, prevalence will reach 2.6% and 62.1% of infections would be averted by 2050. If in addition UNAIDS 90-90-90 goals are achieved, 92.7% of HIV infections would be prevented by 2050. All interventions tested in this model were cost-saving relative to the base case. Both PrEP and enhanced ART strategies can be cost-saving, and if Japan enhances its testing program for MSM and introduces PrEP, it has the potential to effectively eliminate new infections in the next 30 years.
Plasma-activated medium as adjuvant therapy for lung cancer with malignant pleural effusion
Authors: Cheng Yi-Jing , Lin Ching-Kai , Chen Chao-Yu , Chien Po-Chien , Chuan Ho-Hsien , Ho Chao-Chi , Cheng Yun-Chien
Published: October 2020

This study compared effects of plasma-activated medium (PAM) with effects of conventional clinical thermal therapy on both lung cancer cells and benign cells for management of malignant pleural effusion (MPE). For MPE treatment, chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, and thermal therapy are used but caused systemic side effects, patient photosensitivity, and edema, respectively. Recent studies show that plasma induces apoptosis in cancer cells with minor effects on normal cells and is cost-effective. However, the effects of plasma on MPE have not been investigated previously. This study applied a nonthermal atmospheric-pressure plasma jet to treat RPMI medium to produce PAM, carefully controlled the long-life reactive oxygen and nitrogen species concentration in PAM, and treated the cells. The influence of PAM treatment on the microenvironment of cells was also checked. The results indicated that PAM selectively inhibited CL1–5 and A549 cells, exerting minor effects on benign mesothelial and fibroblast cells. In contrast to selective lethal effects of PAM, thermal therapy inhibited both CL1–5 and benign mesothelial cells. This study also found that fibroblast growth factor 1 is not the factor explaining why PAM can selectively inhibit CL1–5 cells. These results indicate that PAM is potentially a less-harmful and cost-effective adjuvant therapy for MPE.
Comparison of the mechanical properties of biodegradable and titanium osteosynthesis systems used in oral and maxillofacial surgery
Authors: Gareb Barzi , Roossien Charlotte C. , van Bakelen Nico B. , Verkerke Gijsbertus J. , Vissink Arjan , Bos Ruud R. M. , van Minnen Baucke
Published: October 2020

To guide the selection of osteosynthesis systems, this study compared the mechanical properties of biodegradable and titanium osteosynthesis systems. SonicPins Rx and xG were subjected to pull-out tests. Additionally, 15 biodegradable (Inion CPS 2.0 and 2.5 mm; LactoSorb 2.0 mm; Macropore 2.0 mm; Polymax 2.0 mm; BioSorb FX 2.0 mm; ResorbX 2.1 mm; Osteotrans-MX 2.0 mm with plate thicknesses 1.0 and 1.4 mm; SonicWeld Rxplate/Rxpins, xGplate/Rxpins and xGplate/xGpins 2.1 mm without and with tapping the burr hole) and six titanium (CrossDrive (2006), CrossDrive (2018), MaxDrive; all 1.5 and 2.0 mm) straight, four-hole osteosynthesis systems were evaluated. All systems were subjected to tensile, bending and torsion tests. Pull-out loads of the SonicPins were comparable (P = 0.423). Titanium systems’ tensile loads were higher than biodegradable systems (P < 0.001). CrossDrive (2018) and MaxDrive systems’ tensile and torsional stiffness were lower, accompanied with higher ductility, than corresponding CrossDrive (2006) systems (P < 0.001). Bending stiffness of 1.5 mm titanium systems was comparable to, and of the 2.0 mm systems higher than, all biodegradable systems (P < 0.001). Regarding biodegradable systems, Inion CPS 2.5 mm had highest tensile load and torsional stiffness, SonicWeld 2.1 mm highest tensile stiffness, and BioSorbFX 2.0 mm highest bending stiffness (P < 0.001). On the basis of the results of this study, the CrossDrive (2018) and MaxDrive 1.5 mm titanium systems are recommended for midface fractures (e.g., zygomatic or maxillary fractures) and osteotomies (e.g., Le Fort I osteotomy), and the CrossDrive (2018) and MaxDrive 2.0 mm titanium systems for mandibular fractures and osteotomies when a titanium osteosynthesis system is used. When there is an indication for a biodegradable osteosynthesis system, the SonicWeld 2.1 mm or BioSorbFX 2.0 mm are recommended for midface fractures and osteotomies, and the Inion CPS 2.5 mm biodegradable system for mandibular osteotomies and non-load bearing mandibular fractures, especially when high torsional forces are expected (e.g., mandibular symphysis fractures).
Combined healthy lifestyle factors are more beneficial in reducing cardiovascular disease in younger adults: a meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies
Authors: Tsai Ming-Chieh , Lee Chun-Chuan , Liu Sung-Chen , Tseng Po-Jung , Chien Kuo-Liong
Published: October 2020

To determine the association between combined lifestyle factors, including healthy diet, moderate alcohol consumption, non-smoking, physical activity, and optimal weight, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk among younger and older adults. We conducted a literature search using PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and EBSCO databases up to November 30, 2019 and performed dose–response analysis, subgroup analysis and meta-regression with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Twenty cohort studies involving 1,090,261 participants with 46,288 cardiovascular events and mean follow-up duration of 12.33 years were included. Compared with the group with the lowest number of healthy lifestyle factors, the group with the highest number had lower CVD risk [pooled hazard ratio, 0.37 (95% CI 0.31–0.43)]. With age as an effect modifier, the lifetime risk of CVD was 0.31 (95% CI 0.24–0.41) at age 37.1–49.9 years, 0.36 (95% CI 0.30–0.45) at age 50.0–59.9 years and 0.49 (95% CI 0.38–0.63) at age 60.0–72.9 years. The hazard ratio of CVD significantly increased from 37.1 to 72.9 years of age [slope in multivariate meta-regression: 0.01 (95% CI < 0.001–0.03; p = 0.042)]. Younger adults have more cardiovascular benefits from combined healthy lifestyle factors.
Adipocyte lipolysis drives acute stress-induced insulin resistance
Authors: Raje Vidisha , Ahern Katelyn W. , Martinez Brittany A. , Howell Nancy L. , Oenarto Vici , Granade Mitchell E. , Kim Jae Woo , Tundup Smanla , Bottermann Katharina , Gödecke Axel , Keller Susanna R. , Kadl Alexandra , Bland Michelle L. , Harris Thurl E.
Published: October 2020

Stress hyperglycemia and insulin resistance are evolutionarily conserved metabolic adaptations to severe injury including major trauma, burns, or hemorrhagic shock (HS). In response to injury, the neuroendocrine system increases secretion of counterregulatory hormones that promote rapid mobilization of nutrient stores, impair insulin action, and ultimately cause hyperglycemia, a condition known to impair recovery from injury in the clinical setting. We investigated the contributions of adipocyte lipolysis to the metabolic response to acute stress. Both surgical injury with HS and counterregulatory hormone (epinephrine) infusion profoundly stimulated adipocyte lipolysis and simultaneously triggered insulin resistance and hyperglycemia. When lipolysis was inhibited, the stress-induced insulin resistance and hyperglycemia were largely abolished demonstrating an essential requirement for adipocyte lipolysis in promoting stress-induced insulin resistance. Interestingly, circulating non-esterified fatty acid levels did not increase with lipolysis or correlate with insulin resistance during acute stress. Instead, we show that impaired insulin sensitivity correlated with circulating levels of the adipokine resistin in a lipolysis-dependent manner. Our findings demonstrate the central importance of adipocyte lipolysis in the metabolic response to injury. This insight suggests new approaches to prevent insulin resistance and stress hyperglycemia in trauma and surgery patients and thereby improve outcomes.
Anchoring Pd-nanoparticles on dithiocarbamate- functionalized SBA-15 for hydrogen generation from formic acid
Authors: Farajzadeh Mustafa , Alamgholiloo Hassan , Nasibipour Fariba , Banaei Reza , Rostamnia Sadegh
Published: October 2020

Hydrogen (H2) generation from natural biological metabolic products has remained a huge challenge for the energy arena. However, designing a catalytic system with complementary properties including high surface area, high loading, and easy separation offers a promising route for efficient utilization of nanoreactors for prospective H2 suppliers to a fuel cell. Herein, selective dehydrogenation of formic acid (FA) as a natural biological metabolic product to H2 and CO2 gas mixtures has been studied by supporting ultrafine palladium nanoparticles on organosulfur-functionalized SBA-15 nanoreactor under ultrasonic irradiation. The effects of the porous structure as a nanoreactor, and organosulfur groups, which presented around the Pd due to their prominent roles in anchoring and stabilizing of Pd NPs, studied as a superior catalyst for selective dehydrogenation of FA. Whole catalytic systems were utilized in ultrasonic irradiation in the absence of additives to provide excellent TOF/TON values. It was found that propose catalyst is a greener, recyclable, and more suitable option for the large-scale application and provide some new insights into stabilization of ultra-fine metal nanoparticle for a variety of applications.
Unraveling spatial cellular pattern by computational tissue shuffling
Authors: Laruelle Elise , Spassky Nathalie , Genovesio Auguste
Published: October 2020

Cell biology relies largely on reproducible visual observations. Unlike cell culture, tissues are heterogeneous, making difficult the collection of biological replicates that would spotlight a precise location. In consequence, there is no standard approach for estimating the statistical significance of an observed pattern in a tissue sample. Here, we introduce SET (for Synthesis of Epithelial Tissue), a method that can accurately reconstruct the cell tessellation formed by an epithelium in a microscopy image as well as thousands of alternative synthetic tessellations made of the exact same cells. SET can build an accurate null distribution to statistically test if any local pattern is necessarily the result of a process, or if it could be explained by chance in the given context. We provide examples in various tissues where visible, and invisible, cell and subcellular patterns are unraveled in a statistically significant manner using a single image and without any parameter settings.
Combinatorial miRNA-34a replenishment and irinotecan delivery via auto-fluorescent polymeric hybrid micelles for synchronous colorectal cancer theranostics
Authors: Li Yunhao , Jia Fan , Deng Xiongwei , Wang Xuan , Lu Jianqing , Shao Leihou , Cui Xinyue , Pan Zian , Wu Yan
Published: October 2020

Auto-fluorescent PEI-PLA/DSPE-PEG hybrid micelles exhibited synchronous colorectal cancer theranostics via combinatorial miRNA-34a replenishment and irinotecan delivery.
Intriguing structural, bonding and reactivity features in some beryllium containing complexes
Authors: Pan Sudip , Jana Gourhari , Saha Ranajit , Zhao Lili , Chattaraj Pratim K.
Published: October 2020

We highlighted our contributions to Be chemistry which include bond-stretch isomerism in Be32−species, Be complexes bound with noble gas, CO, and N2, Be based nanorotors, and intriguing bonding situations in some Be complexes.
Algae-laden water treatment with ultrafiltration: effects of moderate oxidation by Fe(ii)/permanganate on hydraulically irreversible fouling and deposition of iron and manganese oxides
Authors: Qu Fangshu , Yang Zhimeng , Yu Huarong , Zhou Hong , Fan Gongduan , He Junguo , Rong Hongwei
Published: October 2020

Application of ultrafiltration (UF) in algae-laden water treatment is hindered by severe fouling and low retention of soluble organics.
Boosting nanotoxicity to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria in pathophysiological environments
Authors: Westmeier Dana , Siemer Svenja , Vallet Cecilia , Steinmann Jörg , Docter Dominic , Buer Jan , Knauer Shirley K. , Stauber Roland H.
Published: October 2020

Low-pH nano-antibiotic formulation may improve therapy of skin infections, overriding the inhibitory impact of biomolecule coronas relevant for practical applications, while bacterial infections in general lead to alkalization of wound areas.