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In the face of escalating antibiotic resistance, the quest for novel antimicrobial compounds is critical. Actinobacteria is known for producing a substantial fraction of bioactive molecules from microorganisms, nonetheless there is the challenge of metabolic redundancy in bioprospecting. New sources of natural products are needed to overcome these current challenges. Our present work proposes an unexplored potential of Neotropical social wasp-associated microbes as reservoirs of novel bioactive compounds. Using social wasp-associated Tsukamurella sp. strains 8F and 8J, we aimed to determine their biosynthetic potential for producing novel antibiotics and evaluated phylogenetic and genomic traits related to environmental and ecological factors that might be associated with promising bioactivity and evolutionary specialization. These strains were isolated from the cuticle of social wasps and subjected to comprehensive genome sequencing. Our genome mining efforts, employing antiSMASH and ARTS, highlight the presence of BGCs with minimal similarity to known compounds, suggesting the novelty of the molecules they may produce. Previous, bioactivity assays of these strains against bacterial species which harbor known human pathogens, revealed inhibitory potential. Further, our study focuses into the phylogenetic and functional landscape of the Tsukamurella genus, employing a throughout phylogenetic analysis that situates strains 8F and 8J within a distinct evolutionary pathway, matching with the environmental and ecological context of the strains reported for this genus. Our findings emphasize the importance of bioprospecting in uncharted biological territories, such as insect-associated microbes as reservoirs of novel bioactive compounds. As such, we posit that Tsukamurella sp. strains 8F and 8J represent promising candidates for the development of new antimicrobials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taphonomic works aim at discovering how paleontological and archaeofaunal assemblages were formed. They also aim at determining how hominin fossils were preserved or destroyed. Hominins and other mammal carnivores have been co-evolving, at least during the past two million years, and their potential interactions determined the evolution of human behavior. In order to understand all this, taxon-specific carnivore agency must be effectively identified in the fossil record. Until now, taphonomists have been able to determine, to some degree, hominin and carnivore inputs in site formation, and their interactions in the modification of part of those assemblages. However, the inability to determine agency more specifically has hampered the development of taphonomic research, whose methods are virtually identical to those used several decades ago (lagged by a high degree of subjectivity). A call for more objective and agent-specific methods would be a major contribution to the advancement of taphonomic research. Here, we present one of these advances. The use of computer vision (CV) on a large data set of images of tooth marks has enabled the objective discrimination of taxon-specific carnivore agency up to 88% of the testing sample. We highlight the significance of this method in an interdisciplinary interplay between traditional taphonomic-paleontological analysis and artificial intelligence-based computer science. The new questions that can be addressed with this will certainly bring important changes to several ideas on important aspects of the human evolutionary process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a fully 3D-printed choke corrugated Gaussian profile horn antenna (GPHA) using high-conductive filaments and a low-cost modular 3D-printing technique is implemented. The choke corrugated GPHA operates in the Ka-band, with a central frequency of 28 GHz. Although the antenna can be printed in one piece as its dimensions are within the printing limits, four pieces compose the three sections of the final 3D-printed antenna. The numerical simulations and measurements of the antenna show a good agreement, validating the possibility of cost-effective modular fabrication of this complex type of antennas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a 3D-printed cylindrical dielectric resonator antenna operating at 5.8 GHz that achieves circular polarization by integrating a fully dielectric parasitic helix with a higher permittivity than the cylindrical resonator. The antenna polarization can be right-handed or left-handed depending on the turning sense of the helix. An extensive parametric study was done for the helix design to evaluate the effects of the dimensions and dielectric constant of the helix over the matching and axial ratio of the antenna. The manufacturing is made using low-loss dielectric filaments and a low-cost 3D printer. Simulation and measurement results show that both antennas are well-matched and operate with the corresponding circular polarization, with an axial ratio bandwidth compatible with UAV applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, the design of a fully 3D-printed dielectric polarizer based on anisotropic engineered material operating at 38 GHz is presented. The anisotropy conditions to obtain circular polarization are achieved by using an array of dielectric strips, manufactured using two different commercially available filaments for 3D-printing. To illuminate the polarizer, a low-profile horn linear array fed by transverse slots is designed and manufactured. The results show good agreement between simulations and measurements, with the designed polarizer covering the whole operation band of the antenna by keeping a similar gain when compared to the structure without the polarizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploitation of both conventional and unconventional hydrocarbons may lead to still not well-known environmental consequences such as ground deformation and induced/triggered seismicity. Identifying and characterizing these effects is fundamental for prevention or mitigation purposes, especially when they impact populated areas. Two case studies of such effects on hydrocarbon-producing basins in Argentina, the Neuquén and the Golfo de San Jorge, are presented in this work. The intense hydrocarbon production activities in recent years and their potential link with the occurrence of two earthquakes of magnitude 4.9 and 5 near the operating well fields is assessed. A joint analysis of satellite radar interferometry and records of fluid injection and extraction demonstrate that, between 2017 and 2020, vertical ground displacements occurred in both study areas over active well fields that might indicate a correlation to hydrocarbon production activities. Coseismic deformation models of the two earthquakes constrain source depths to less than 2 km. The absence of seismicity before the beginning of the hydrocarbon activities in both areas, and the occurrence of the two largest and shallow earthquakes in the vicinity of the active well fields just after intensive production periods, points towards the potential association between both phenomena. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a worldwide leading cause of death. Recognized risk factors in some severe cases have not been identified. Lymphocytopenia has been frequently described in CAP. Since IL-7, membrane-bound receptor (IL7Rα;CD127) and soluble IL7Rα (sIL7R) are critical in lymphocytes homeostasis, in this work we aimed to evaluate the involvement of the IL-7/IL7Rα axis in the severity of adult CAP, since it has not been explored. The IL7Rα SNPs rs6897932, rs987106, and rs3194051 SNPs in IL7α were genotyped, the systemic expression of the IL7R gene, sIL7R, IL-7, and levels of peripheral IL7Rα+ T lymphocytes were quantified in 202 hospitalized CAP cases. rs3194051GG was more frequent in non-survivors than in survivors; rs987106TT was more frequent and rs3194051AA less frequent in patients at intensive care unit (ICU) than in those not admitted to ICU. IL7Rα gene expression was lower in non-survivors than in survivors, and in severe than in mild cases. CD3+CD127+ lymphocytes were lower in severe than in mild cases; in non-survivors than in survivors and in ICU than in non- ICU admitted cases. sIL7Rα plasmatic levels were higher in non-survivors than in survivors, and in severe than in mild cases. rs6897932CC, rs987106AA and rs3194051GG carriers showed the highest while rs6897932TT showed the lowest sIL7Rα levels. The AUC of sIL7Rα levels predicting 30-day mortality was 0.71. Plasma IL-7 levels were lower in ICU-admitted than in not ICU-admitted and in non-survivors than in survivors. No additional association was detected. In conclusion, rs3194051GG and rs987106TT IL7R genotypes were associated with a poorer prognosis. A significant association between sIL7R levels and SNPs of the IL7R gene is described for the first time in adult CAP. Increased plasmatic sIL7R could contribute to identifying adult CAP cases at risk of death. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a fully 3D-printed dielectric planar lens operating in the entire Ka-band manufactured using additive manufacturing and a relatively low-cost 3D-printer. The lens consists of ten concentric rings implemented using low-loss ABS filaments with high permittivity values. By varying the infill percentages of them the required refractive indexes of each section are achieved. An additional 3D-printed matching layer, using the same manufacturing and design method was included in the lens, to reduce reflections. Simulation and measurement results show a very good agreement, which confirms the possibility of manufacturing a cost-effective broadband and planar lens solution operating in millimeter wave bands, where Low Earth Orbit Satellites (LEO) networks, future mobile communication systems (5G, 6G) and radar systems operate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although coastal water marine algae have been popularly used by others as indicators of heavy metal pollution, data within the Bay of Bengal for the estuarine Cox's Bazar region and Saint Martin's Island has remained scarce. Using marine algae, the study herein forms an effort in biomonitoring of metal contamination in the aforementioned Bangladesh areas. A total of 10 seaweed species were collected, including edible varieties, analyzed for metal levels through the use of the technique of EDXRF. From greatest to least, measured mean metal concentrations in descending order have been found to be K > Fe > Zr > Br > Sr > Zn > Mn > Rb > Cu > As > Pb > Cr > Co. Potential toxic heavy metals such as Pb, As, and Cr appear at lower concentration values compared to that found for essential mineral elements. However, the presence of Pb in Sargassum oligocystum species has been observed to exceed the maximum international guidance level. Given that some of the algae species are cultivated for human consumption, the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic indices were calculated, shown to be slightly lower than the maxima recommended by the international organizations. Overall, the present results are consistent with literature data suggesting that heavy metal macroalgae biomonitoring may be species-specific. To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first comprehensive macroalgae biomonitoring study of metal contamination from the coastal waters of Cox's Bazar and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delayed gadolinium-enhanced cardiac magnetic resonance (LGE-CMR) imaging requires novel and time-efficient approaches to characterize the myocardial substrate associated with ventricular arrhythmia in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy. Using a translational approach in pigs and patients with established myocardial infarction, we tested and validated a novel 3D methodology to assess ventricular scar using custom transmural criteria and a semiautomatic approach to obtain transmural scar maps in ventricular models reconstructed from both 3D-acquired and 3D-upsampled-2D-acquired LGE-CMR images. The results showed that 3D-upsampled models from 2D LGE-CMR images provided a time-efficient alternative to 3D-acquired sequences to assess the myocardial substrate associated with ischemic cardiomyopathy. Scar assessment from 2D-LGE-CMR sequences using 3D-upsampled models was superior to conventional 2D assessment to identify scar sizes associated with the cycle length of spontaneous ventricular tachycardia episodes and long-term ventricular tachycardia recurrences after catheter ablation. This novel methodology may represent an efficient approach in clinical practice after manual or automatic segmentation of myocardial borders in a small number of conventional 2D LGE-CMR slices and automatic scar detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humans are unique in their diet, physiology and socio-reproductive behavior compared to other primates. They are also unique in the ubiquitous adaptation to all biomes and habitats. From an evolutionary perspective, these trends seem to have started about two million years ago, coinciding with the emergence of encephalization, the reduction of the dental apparatus, the adoption of a fully terrestrial lifestyle, resulting in the emergence of the modern anatomical bauplan, the focalization of certain activities in the landscape, the use of stone tools, and the exit from Africa. It is in this period that clear taphonomic evidence of a switch in diet with respect to Pliocene hominins occurred, with the adoption of carnivory. Until now, the degree of carnivorism in early humans remained controversial. A persistent hypothesis is that hominins acquired meat irregularly (potentially as fallback food) and opportunistically through klepto-foraging. Here, we test this hypothesis and show, in contrast, that the butchery practices of early Pleistocene hominins (unveiled through systematic study of the patterning and intensity of cut marks on their prey) could not have resulted from having frequent secondary access to carcasses. We provide evidence of hominin primary access to animal resources and emphasize the role that meat played in their diets, their ecology and their anatomical evolution, ultimately resulting in the ecologically unrestricted terrestrial adaptation of our species. This has major implications to the evolution of human physiology and potentially for the evolution of the human brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical composition of snow provides insights on atmospheric transport of anthropogenic contaminants at different spatial scales. In this study, we assess how human activities influence the concentration of elements in the Andean mountain snow along a latitudinal transect throughout Chile. The concentration of seven elements (Al, Cu, Fe, Li, Mg, Mn and Zn) was associated to gaseous and particulate contaminants emitted at different spatial scales. Our results indicate carbon monoxide (CO) averaged at 20 km and nitrogen oxide (NOx) at 40 km as the main indicators of the chemical elements analyzed. CO was found to be a significant predictor of most element concentrations while concentrations of Cu, Mn, Mg and Zn were positively associated to emissions of NOx. Emission of 2.5 μm and 10 μm particulate matter averaged at different spatial scales was positively associated to concentration of Li. Finally, the concentration of Zn was positively associated to volatile organic compounds (VOC) averaged at 40 km around sampling sites. The association between air contaminants and chemical composition of snow suggests that regions with intensive anthropogenic pollution face reduced quality of freshwater originated from glacier and snow melting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Spain, in order to control COVID-19 transmission, one of the strictest confinement measures in the world for children and teenagers has been implemented. From 14 March to 26 April 2020 underage Spaniards were not allowed to leave their homes, except for reasons of force majeure. This could have consequences on their mental health in both the short and the long term. Thus, the aim of the present study was to explore the consequences of confinement on the mental health of Spanish children and teenagers, at the time when minors had been locked down in their homes between 8 and 10 days. The sample was composed of 590 confined Spanish children and teenagers between 8 and 18 years old. The scales of Depression, Self-esteem, Anxiety, Problems with Emotional Regulation, Rage Control Problems, Integration and Social Competence, Somatic Complaints, Rebellious Behaviour, as well as Awareness of the Problems of the Assessment System for Children and Adolescents (SENA) were used. The results revealed that, during confinement, children and adolescents showed emotional and behavioural alterations. This study, as far as we know, is the first one to explore the psychological consequences of lockdown in minors while it was taking place, with them being the ones directly assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the rapid loss of biodiversity as consequence of climate change, greater knowledge of ecophysiological and natural history traits are crucial to determine which environmental factors induce stress and drive the decline of threatened species. Liolaemus montanezi (Liolaemidae), a xeric-adapted lizard occurring only in a small geographic range in west-central Argentina, constitutes an excellent model for studies on the threats of climate change on such microendemic species. We describe field data on activity patterns, use of microhabitat, behavioral thermoregulation, and physiology to produce species distribution models (SDMs) based on climate and ecophysiological data. Liolaemus montanezi inhabits a thermally harsh environment which remarkably impacts their activity and thermoregulation. The species shows a daily bimodal pattern of activity and mostly occupies shaded microenvironments. Although the individuals thermoregulate at body temperatures below their thermal preference they avoid high-temperature microenvironments probably to avoid overheating. The population currently persists because of the important role of the habitat physiognomy and not because of niche tracking, seemingly prevented by major rivers that form boundaries of their geographic range. We found evidence of habitat opportunities in the current range and adjacent areas that will likely remain suitable to the year 2070, reinforcing the relevance of the river floodplain for the species' avoidance of extinction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pines are the dominant conifers in Mediterranean forests. As long-lived sessile organisms that seasonally have to cope with drought periods, they have developed a variety of adaptive responses. However, during last decades, highly intense and long-lasting drought events could have contributed to decay and mortality of the most susceptible trees. Among conifer species, Pinus pinaster Ait. shows remarkable ability to adapt to different environments. Previous molecular analysis of a full-sib family designed to study drought response led us to find active transcriptional activity of stress-responding genes even without water deprivation in tolerant genotypes. To improve our knowledge about communication between above- and below-ground organs of maritime pine, we have analyzed four graft-type constructions using two siblings as rootstocks and their progenitors, Gal 1056 and Oria 6, as scions. Transcriptomic profiles of needles from both scions were modified by the rootstock they were grafted on. However, the most significant differential gene expression was observed in drought-sensitive Gal 1056, while in drought-tolerant Oria 6, differential gene expression was very much lower. Furthermore, both scions grafted onto drought-tolerant rootstocks showed activation of genes involved in tolerance to abiotic stress, and is most remarkable in Oria 6 grafts where higher accumulation of transcripts involved in phytohormone action, transcriptional regulation, photosynthesis and signaling has been found. Additionally, processes, such as those related to secondary metabolism, were mainly associated with the scion genotype. This study provides pioneering information about rootstock effects on scion gene expression in conifers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Andean Altiplano-Puna is located at an elevation of approximately 4000 m.a.s.l. and is delineated by the Western and the Eastern Andes Cordillera. The high-altitude wetlands (HAWs) in the Central Andes are unique ecosystems located in the Altiplano that provide many ecosystem services. The objective of this study was to characterize the spatial heterogeneity of the environmental conditions associated with varying hydrology of the HAW, Salar de Tara, in the Andean Altiplano. Sediment samples of up to 20 cm in depth were obtained from various salt flat sub-environments. The samples were analyzed using proxies for mineralogical and chemical composition, thermal analysis, and magnetic susceptibility. Diatom and ostracod communities were also identified and analyzed. The results reflected changes in the geochemistry, carbon content, mineralogy, and magnetic properties of the sediments that can be explained by variations in the sources of water input to the Salar de Tara. The sub-environments depend on the supply of water via the groundwater recharge of springs adjacent to the streamflow from the Zapaleri River, which promotes greater diversity and richness of genera. Our results suggest that water extraction at industrial levels greatly impacts the persistence of hydrologically connected HAWs, which concentrate a worldwide interest in brine mining. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a recognized risk factor for the development of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). Our objectives were to compare the urinary albumin–creatinine ratio (UACR) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of patients with DKD according to OSA severity, and to evaluate the contribution of sleep parameters to their renal function. In a multicenter, observational, cross-sectional study, 214 patients with DKD were recruited. After a sleep study, UACR and eGFR were measured, as well as serum creatinine, fasting glucose, glycated hemoglobin, insulin resistance, lipid profile and C-reactive protein. UACR was higher in severe OSA patients (920 ± 1053 mg/g) than in moderate (195 ± 232 mg/g, p < 0.001) or mild OSA/non-OSA subjects (119 ± 186 mg/g, p < 0.001). At the same time, eGFR showed an OSA severity-dependent reduction (48 ± 23 vs. 59 ± 21 vs. 73 ± 19 ml/min per 1.73 m2, respectively; p < 0.001). Apnea–hypopnea index (AHI and desaturation index (ODI) were identified as independent predictors for UACR and eGFR, respectively. Therefore, in patients with DKD under optimized treatment, severe OSA is associated with a higher UACR and a lower eGFR, reflecting an additional contribution to the impairment of their renal function, although no causality can be inferred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predicting radiative forcing due to Antarctic stratospheric ozone recovery requires detecting changes in the ozone vertical distribution. In this endeavor, the Limb Profiler of the Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (OMPS-LP), aboard the Suomi NPP satellite, has played a key role providing ozone profiles over Antarctica since 2011. Here, we compare ozone profiles derived from OMPS-LP data (version 2.5 algorithm) with balloon-borne ozonesondes launched from 8 Antarctic stations over the period 2012–2020. Comparisons focus on the layer from 12.5 to 27.5 km and include ozone profiles retrieved during the Sudden Stratospheric Warming (SSW) event registered in Spring 2019. We found that, over the period December-January–February-March, the root mean square error (RMSE) tends to be larger (about 20%) in the lower stratosphere (12.5–17.5 km) and smaller (about 10%) within higher layers (17.5–27.5 km). During the ozone hole season (September–October–November), RMSE values rise up to 40% within the layer from 12.5 to 22 km. Nevertheless, relative to balloon-borne measurements, the mean bias error of OMPS-derived Antarctic ozone profiles is generally lower than 0.3 ppmv, regardless of the season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To train, evaluate, and validate the application of a deep learning framework in three-dimensional ultrasound (3D US) for the automatic segmentation of ventricular volume in preterm infants with post haemorrhagic ventricular dilatation (PHVD). We trained a 2D convolutional neural network (CNN) for automatic segmentation ventricular volume from 3D US of preterm infants with PHVD. The method was validated with the Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and the intra-class coefficient (ICC) compared to manual segmentation. The mean birth weight of the included patients was 1233.1 g (SD 309.4) and mean gestational age was 28.1 weeks (SD 1.6). A total of 152 serial 3D US from 10 preterm infants with PHVD were analysed. 230 ventricles were manually segmented. Of these, 108 were used for training a 2D CNN and 122 for validating the methodology for automatic segmentation. The global agreement for manual versus automated measures in the validation data (n = 122) was excellent with an ICC of 0.944 (0.874–0.971). The Dice similarity coefficient was 0.8 (± 0.01). 3D US based ventricular volume estimation through an automatic segmentation software developed through deep learning improves the accuracy and reduces the processing time needed for manual segmentation using VOCAL. 3D US should be considered a promising tool to help deepen our current understanding of the complex evolution of PHVD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The HLA region is responsible for almost 50% of the genetic risk of type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, haplotypes and their effects on risk or protection vary among different ethnic groups, mainly in an admixed population. We aimed to evaluate the HLA class II genetic profile of Brazilian individuals with T1D and its relationship with self-reported color/race. This was a nationwide multicenter study conducted in 10 Brazilian cities. We included 1,019 T1D individuals and 5,116 controls matched for the region of birth and self-reported color/race. Control participants belonged to the bone marrow transplant donor registry of Brazil (REDOME). HLA-class II alleles (DRB1, DQA1, and DQB1) were genotyped using the SSO and NGS methods. The most frequent risk and protection haplotypes were HLA~DRB1*03:01~DQA1*05:01 g~DQB1*02:01 (OR 5.8, p < 0.00001) and HLA~DRB1*07:01~DQA1*02:01~DQB1*02:02 (OR 0.54, p < 0.0001), respectively, regardless of self-reported color/race. Haplotypes HLA~DRB1*03:01~DQA1*05:01 g~DQB1*02:01 and HLA~DRB1*04:02~DQA1*03:01 g~DQB1*03:02 were more prevalent in the self-reported White group than in the Black group (p = 0.04 and p = 0.02, respectively). The frequency of haplotype HLA~DRB1*09:01~DQA1*03:01 g~DQB1*02:02 was higher in individuals self-reported as Black than White (p = <0.00001). No difference between the Brazilian geographical regions was found. Individuals with T1D presented differences in frequencies of haplotypes within self-reported color/race, but the more prevalent haplotypes, regardless of self-reported color/race, were the ones described previously in Europeans. We hypothesize that, in the T1D population of Brazil, although highly admixed, the disease risk alleles come mostly from Europeans as a result of centuries of colonization and migration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication using standard triple therapy (STT) with proton pump inhibitors (PPI), amoxicillin and clarithromycin (CLA) has been the standard in Latin America. However, CLA resistance is a rising problem affecting eradication rates. Genetic polymorphisms of CYP2C19, a PPI metabolizer may also affect eradication. The primary aims of this study were to evaluate the effect of clarithromycin resistance on H. pylori eradication in a population from Santiago, and to establish the pooled clarithromycin resistance in Santiago, Chile. Symptomatic adult patients attending a tertiary hospital in Santiago were recruited for this study. CLA resistance and the polymorphisms of CYP2C19 were determined on DNA extracted from gastric biopsies, using PCR. The STT was indicated for 14 days and eradication was determined by a urea breath test 4–6 weeks after therapy. A meta-analysis of CLA resistance studies among adult residents in Santiago was performed. Seventy-three out of 121 consecutive patients had positive rapid urease test (RUT) and received STT. Sixty-nine patients (95%) completed the study. The H. pylori eradication rate was 63% and the prevalence of CLA resistance was 26%. According to the CYP2C19 polymorphisms, 79.5% of the RUT-positive patients were extensive metabolizers. Multivariable analyses showed that only CLA resistance was significantly and inversely associated with failure of eradication (OR: 0.13; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 0.04–0.49). A meta-analysis of two previous studies and our sample set (combined n = 194) yielded to a pooled prevalence of CLA resistance of 31.3% (95% CI 23.9–38.7). Our study shows that CLA resistance is associated with failure of H. pylori eradication. Given the high pooled prevalence of CLA resistance, consideration of CLA free therapies in Santiago is warranted. We could recommend bismuth quadruple therapy or high-dose dual therapy, according to bismuth availability. Further studies need to evaluate the best therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Results section, under the subheading "Hydrocarbon production and ground displacements in the GSJ basin", "The average displacement time series estimated for zones 1, 2 and 3 using the ascending, descending and vertical trajectories (orange and blue lines, respectively) are shown in Fig. In the Results section, under the subheading "The Neuquén basin", "Red tones represent points moving toward the satellite while blue ones show points moving far from the satellite. 7b-d." Now reads: The average displacement time series estimated for zones 1, 2 and 3 using the ascending, descending and vertical trajectories (orange, blue and gray dots, respectively) are shown in Fig. [Extracted from the article]

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via a link at the top of the paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone surface modifications are foundational to the correct identification of hominin butchery traces in the archaeological record. Until present, no analytical technique existed that could provide objectivity, high accuracy, and an estimate of probability in the identification of multiple structurally-similar and dissimilar marks. Here, we present a major methodological breakthrough that incorporates these three elements using Artificial Intelligence (AI) through computer vision techniques, based on convolutional neural networks. This method, when applied to controlled experimental marks on bones, yielded the highest rate documented to date of accurate classification (92%) of cut, tooth and trampling marks. After testing this method experimentally, it was applied to published images of some important traces purportedly indicating a very ancient hominin presence in Africa, America and Europe. The preliminary results are supportive of interpretations of ancient butchery in some places, but not in others, and suggest that new analyses of these controversial marks should be done following the protocol described here to confirm or disprove these archaeological interpretations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) species are bioactive lipids participating in neurodevelopmental processes. The aim was to investigate whether the relevant species of LPA were associated with clinical features of alcohol addiction. A total of 55 abstinent alcohol use disorder (AUD) patients were compared with 34 age/sex/body mass index-matched controls. Concentrations of total LPA and 16:0-LPA, 18:0-LPA, 18:1-LPA, 18:2-LPA and 20:4-LPA species were quantified and correlated with neuroplasticity-associated growth factors including brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and IGF-2, and neurotrophin-3 (NT-3). AUD patients showed dysexecutive syndrome (22.4%) and memory impairment (32.6%). Total LPA, 16:0-LPA, 18:0-LPA and 18:1-LPA concentrations, were decreased in the AUD group compared to control group. Total LPA, 16:0-LPA, 18:2-LPA and 20:4-LPA concentrations were decreased in men compared to women. Frontal lobe functions correlated with plasma LPA species. Alcohol-cognitive impairments could be related with the deregulation of the LPA species, especially in 16:0-LPA, 18:1-LPA and 20:4-LPA. Concentrations of BDNF correlated with total LPA, 18:2-LPA and 20:4-LPA species. The relation between LPA species and BDNF is interesting in plasticity and neurogenesis functions, their involvement in AUD might serve as a biomarker of cognitive impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different kinematic models have been proposed for the triple junction between the North American, Cocos and Caribbean plates. The two most commonly accepted hypotheses on its driving mechanism are (a) the North American drag of the forearc and (b) the Cocos Ridge subduction push. We present an updated GPS velocity field which is analyzed together with earthquake focal mechanisms and regional relief. The two hypotheses have been used to make kinematic predictions that are tested against the available data. An obliquity analysis is also presented to discuss the potential role of slip partitioning as driving mechanism. The North American drag model presents a better fit to the observations, although the Cocos Ridge push model explains the data in Costa Rica and Southern Nicaragua. Both mechanisms must be active, being the driving of the Central American forearc towards the NW analogous to a push-pull train. The forearc sliver moves towards the west-northwest at a rate of 12–14 mm/yr, being pinned to the North American plate in Chiapas and western Guatemala, where the strike-slip motion on the volcanic arc must be very small. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The snowpack is an important source of water for many Andean communities. Because of its importance, elemental and mineralogical composition analysis of the Andean snow is a worthwhile effort. In this study, we conducted a chemical composition analysis (major and trace elements, mineralogy, and chemical enrichment) of surface snow sampled at 21 sites across a transect of about 2,500 km in the Chilean Andes (18–41°S). Our results enabled us to identify five depositional environments: (i) sites 1–3 (in the Atacama Desert, 18–26°S) with relatively high concentrations of metals, high abundance of quartz and low presence of arsenates, (ii) sites 4–8 (in northern Chile, 29–32°S) with relatively high abundance of quartz and low presence of metals and arsenates, (iii) sites 9–12 (in central Chile, 33–35°S) with anthropogenic enrichment of metals, relatively high values of quartz and low abundance of arsenates, (iv) sites 13–14 (also in central Chile, 35–37°S) with relatively high values of quartz and low presence of metals and arsenates, and v) sites 15–21 (in southern Chile, 37–41°S) with relatively high abundance of arsenates and low presence of metals and quartz. We found significant anthropogenic enrichment at sites close to Santiago (a major city of 6 million inhabitants) and in the Atacama Desert (that hosts several major copper mines). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vertical profiles of black carbon (BC) and other light-absorbing impurities were measured in seasonal snow and permanent snowfields in the Chilean Andes during Austral winters 2015 and 2016, at 22 sites between latitudes 18°S and 41°S. The samples were analyzed for spectrally-resolved visible light absorption. For surface snow, the average mass mixing ratio of BC was 15 ng/g in northern Chile (18-33°S), 28 ng/g near Santiago (a major city near latitude 33°S, where urban pollution plays a significant role), and 13 ng/g in southern Chile (33-41°S). The regional average vertically-integrated loading of BC was 207 µg/m2 in the north, 780 µg/m2 near Santiago, and 2500 µg/m2 in the south, where the snow season was longer and the snow was deeper. For samples collected at locations where there had been no new snowfall for a week or more, the BC concentration in surface snow was high (~10-100 ng/g) and the sub-surface snow was comparatively clean, indicating the dominance of dry deposition of BC. Mean albedo reductions due to light-absorbing impurities were 0.0150, 0.0160, and 0.0077 for snow grain radii of 100 µm for northern Chile, the region near Santiago, and southern Chile; respective mean radiative forcings for the winter months were 2.8, 1.4, and 0.6 W/m2. In northern Chile, our measurements indicate that light-absorption by impurities in snow was dominated by dust rather than BC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The anthropogenic perturbation of the phosphorus (P) marine biogeochemical cycle due to synthetic organophosphorus compounds remains unexplored. The objective of this work was to investigate the microbial degradation of organophosphate triesters (OPEs), widely used as plasticizers and flame retardants, in seawater and their effects on the physiology and composition of microbial communities. Experiments were performed in July 2014 using surface seawater from the Blanes Bay Microbial Observatory (NW Mediterranean) to which OPEs were added at environmentally relevant concentrations. The concentrations of OPEs in the dissolved-phase generally decreased after 24 hours of incubation at in situ conditions. The fitted first order reaction constants were significantly different than zero for the trihaloalkyl phosphate, tris(2-chloroethyl) phosphate and trialyl phosphate tricresyl phosphate. In general, OPEs triggered an increase of the percentage of actively respiring bacteria, total bacterial activity, and the number of low-nucleic acid bacteria, and a decrease in the percentage of membrane-compromised bacteria. Members of some bacterial groups, in particular Flavobacteria, increased their specific activity, indicating that seawater contains bacteria with the potential to degrade OPEs. In aged seawater that was presumably depleted of labile dissolved organic carbon and inorganic P, alkaline phosphatase activities significantly decreased when OPEs were added, indicating a relief on P stress, consistent with the role of OPEs as potential P sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When people see a life-sized virtual body (VB) from first person perspective in virtual reality they are likely to have the perceptual illusion that it is their body. Additionally such virtual embodiment can lead to changes in perception, implicit attitudes and behaviour based on attributes of the VB. To date the changes that have been studied are as a result of being embodied in a body representative of particular social groups (e.g., children and other race). In our experiment participants alternately switched between a VB closely resembling themselves where they described a personal problem, and a VB representing Dr Sigmund Freud, from which they offered themselves counselling. Here we show that when the counsellor resembles Freud participants improve their mood, compared to the counsellor being a self-representation. The improvement was greater when the Freud VB moved synchronously with the participant, compared to asynchronously. Synchronous VB movement was associated with a much stronger illusion of ownership over the Freud body. This suggests that this form of embodied perspective taking can lead to sufficient detachment from habitual ways of thinking about personal problems, so as to improve the outcome, and demonstrates the power of virtual body ownership to effect cognitive changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]