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Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis (NCL) is a group of neurodegenerative disorders that occur in humans, dogs, and several other species. NCL is characterised clinically by progressive deterioration of cognitive and motor function, epileptic seizures, and visual impairment. Most forms present early in life and eventually lead to premature death. Typical pathological changes include neuronal accumulation of autofluorescent, periodic acid‐Schiff‐ and Sudan black B‐positive lipopigments, as well as marked loss of neurons in the central nervous system. Here, we describe a 19‐month‐old Schapendoes dog, where clinical signs were indicative of lysosomal storage disease, which was corroborated by pathological findings consistent with NCL. Whole genome sequencing of the affected dog and both parents, followed by variant calling and visual inspection of known NCL genes, identified a missense variant in CLN6 (c.386T>C). The variant is located in a highly conserved region of the gene and predicted to be harmful, which supports a causal relationship. The identification of this novel CLN6 variant enables pre‐breeding DNA‐testing to prevent future cases of NCL6 in the Schapendoes breed, and presents a potential natural model for NCL6 in humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: The aim was to analyse the use and safety of bisphosphonate treatment for metabolic bone complications in paediatric cancer patients. Methods: We retrospectively describe our experience with bisphosphonate treatment in 25 childhood cancer patients (aged <18 years) in a single tertiary hospital between 1999 and 2020. Results: The most common primary diagnosis was acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (n = 16) and Hodgkin lymphoma (n = 3). Eleven patients (44%) had received allogeneic stem cell transplantation and two patients autologous stem cell transplantation. Sixteen patients (64%) had been treated with radiotherapy, either total-body (n = 11) or local (n = 5). The main indication for bisphosphonates was osteoporosis with vertebral compression fractures in 13/25, osteonecrosis in 6/25 and hypercalcaemia in 2/25. The bisphosphonate treatment was started on average 13 (range 0-76) months after the diagnosis of the bone complication. Bisphosphonate treatment lasted between weeks (hypercalcaemia) to 5 years (severe osteoporosis). Mild, non-symptomatic hypophosphatemia (n = 8), hypocalcaemia (n = 6) and moderate, transient pain (n = 6) were the most common adverse effects. No severe side effects were observed even when bisphosphonates were administered concomitantly with chemotherapy. Bone mineral density significantly improved with the bisphosphonate treatment (mean lumbar spine Z-score -1.17 vs. -0.07, p < 0.001). Conclusion: Bisphosphonate treatment was well tolerated in this paediatric patient cohort. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the case of the Yeongdodaegyo bridge, abnormal noise occurred only in summer when it was opened, and the expected cause of noise was expected to be due to bearing damage or deformation friction. Therefore, a non‐destructive test was performed around the spherical bearing, which is a major part of the drawbridge components connected to the rotating shaft girder. For the measurement to analyze the cause of noise, the real‐time noise source was tracked during hoisting using an acoustic sensor according to the angular displacement of the rotating shaft. Through this, we tried to identify the noise source by identifying the left and right real‐time deformation (torsion, deflection, inclination) and the friction part of the damaged bearing. As a result of the analysis, irregular noise was generated from the left and right sides, and noise was generated when the twist, deflection, or tilt of the rotation shaft occurred. The bottom of the left and right bearings was found to be the main source of noise, and the bearing contact during deformation is considered to be the cause of the noise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the first report of significant energization (up to 7,000 eV) of low‐energy He+ ions, which occurred simultaneously with H‐band electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) wave activity, in a direction mostly perpendicular to the ambient magnetic field. The event was detected by the Arase satellite in the dayside plasmatrough region off the magnetic equator on 15 May 2019. The peak energy of the He+ flux enhancements is mostly above 1,000 eV. At some interval, the He+ ions are energized up to ∼7,000 eV. The H‐band waves are excited in a frequency band between the local crossover and helium gyrofrequencies and are close to a linear polarization state with weakly left‐handed or right‐handed polarization. The normal angle of the waves exhibits significant variation between 0° and 80°, indicating a non‐parallel propagation. We run a hybrid code with parameters estimated from the Arase observations to examine the He+ energization. The simulations show that cold He+ ions are energized up to more than 1,000 eV, similar to the spacecraft observations. From the analysis of the simulated wave fields and cold plasma motions, we found that the ratio of the wave frequency to He+ gyrofrequency is a primary factor for transverse energization of cold He+ ions. As a consequence of the numerical analysis, we suggest that the significant transverse energization of He+ ions observed by Arase is attributed to H‐band EMIC waves excited near the local helium gyrofrequency. Key Points: Strong H‐band EMIC waves were detected in the dayside plasmatrough region off the magnetic equator by the Arase spacecraftThe H‐band waves energize cold He+ ions to levels above ∼1,000 eV in the direction perpendicular to the background magnetic fieldSimulation indicates that the ratio of the wave frequency to He+ gyrofrequency is a primary factor in the strong energization of He+ ions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is globally affecting rainfall patterns, necessitating the improvement of drought tolerance in crops. Sorghum bicolor is a relatively drought‐tolerant cereal. Functional stay‐green sorghum genotypes can maintain green leaf area and efficient grain filling during terminal post‐flowering water deprivation, a period of ~10 weeks. To obtain molecular insights into these characteristics, two drought‐tolerant genotypes, BTx642 and RTx430, were grown in replicated control and terminal post‐flowering drought field plots in California's Central Valley. Photosynthetic, photoprotective, and water dynamics traits were quantified and correlated with metabolomic data collected from leaves, stems, and roots at multiple timepoints during control and drought conditions. Physiological and metabolomic data were then compared to longitudinal RNA sequencing data collected from these two genotypes. The unique metabolic and transcriptomic response to post‐flowering drought in sorghum supports a role for the metabolite galactinol in controlling photosynthetic activity through regulating stomatal closure in post‐flowering drought. Additionally, in the functional stay‐green genotype BTx642, photoprotective responses were specifically induced in post‐flowering drought, supporting a role for photoprotection in the molecular response associated with the functional stay‐green trait. From these insights, new pathways are identified that can be targeted to maximize yields under growth conditions with limited water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on plant responses to combined abiotic stresses are very limited, especially in major crop plants. The current study evaluated the response of chorismate mutase overexpressor (OxCM) rice line to combined UV light and drought stress.The experiments were conducted in pots in a growth chamber, and data were assessed for gene expression, antioxidant and hormone regulation, flavonoid accumulation, phenotypic variation, and amino acid accumulation.Wild‐type (WT) rice had reduced the growth and vigour, while transgenic rice maintained growth and vigour under combined UV light and drought stress. ROS and lipid peroxidation analysis revealed that chorismate mutase (OsCM) reduced oxidative stress mediated by ROS scavenging and reduced lipid peroxidation. The combined stresses reduced biosynthesis of total flavonoids, kaempferol and quercetin in WT plants, but increased significantly in plants with OxCM. Phytohormone analysis showed that SA was reduced by 50% in WT and 73% in transgenic plants, while ABA was reduced by 22% in WT plants but increased to 129% in transgenic plants. Expression of chorismate mutase regulates phenylalanine biosynthesis, UV light and drought stress‐responsive genes, e.g., phenylalanine ammonia lyase (OsPAL), dehydrin (OsDHN), dehydration‐responsive element‐binding (OsDREB), ras‐related protein 7 (OsRab7), ultraviolet‐B resistance 8 (OsUVR8), WRKY transcription factor 89 (OsWRKY89) and tryptophan synthase alpha chain (OsTSA). Moreover, OsCM also increases accumulation of free amino acids (aspartic acid, glutamic acid, leucine, tyrosine, phenylalanine and proline) and sodium (Na), potassium (K), and calcium (Ca) ions in response to the combined stresses.Together, these results suggest that chorismate mutase expression induces physiological, biochemical and molecular changes that enhance rice tolerance to combined UV light and drought stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Although many studies have supported the efficacy of transplacental treatment for fetal supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, the long-term neurodevelopmental outcome after antenatal antiarrhythmic treatment is not well understood. The aim of this study was to clarify prognosis and neurodevelopmental outcome after protocol-defined antenatal therapy for fetal supraventricular tachyarrhythmias, in addition to the incidence of tachyarrhythmias after birth.Methods: This 3-year follow-up study of a multicenter trial for fetal supraventricular tachycardia and atrial flutter evaluated the primary endpoint of mortality and neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI). NDI was defined as any of the following outcomes: cerebral palsy, bilateral blindness, bilateral deafness, or neurodevelopmental delay. The detection rate of tachyarrhythmia was also evaluated as the secondary endpoint. In addition, the correlations between NDI and perinatal factors or postnatal factors were analyzed at 36 months of corrected age.Results: Of 50 patients, the exclusions during the protocol-defined transplacental treatment were 1 patient because of withdrawal of consent and 2 patients with fetal death, leaving 47 patients available for enrollment in this follow-up study. Among these 47 neonates, 45 were available for analysis after 2 were lost to follow-up. The mortality rate was 2.2% (1/45) during a median follow-up of 3.2 years (2.1-9.4 years). Of these 45 infants, 2 dropped out, of whom 1 died at age 2.1 years, and 1 had missing neurodevelopmental assessment data. For the remaining 43 infants, at 36 months of corrected age, NDI was detected in 9.3% (4/43) of infants overall and in 2 of 3 infants of fetal hydrops with subcutaneous edema; cerebral palsy was found in 2 infants with severe subcutaneous edema or ascites at early gestational age; and neurodevelopmental delay was found in 2 infants with tuberous sclerosis or heterotaxy syndrome. Tachyarrhythmias were present in 31.9% (15/47) in the neonatal period and gradually decreased to 8.9% (4/45) and 4.5% (2/44) at 18 and 36 months of corrected age, respectively. The ventricular rate at diagnosis was significantly higher in infants with NDI than those without (median, 265 bpm vs. 229 bpm, P=0.003). In infants with NDI, fetal hydrops with subcutaneous edema at diagnosis was more common (50.0% vs. 2.6%, P=0.019), and the duration of fetal effusion was longer (median, 10.5 days vs. 0 day, P=0.013) than those without. Whereas postnatal arrhythmia and physical development abnormalities were not associated with NDI.Conclusions: Our multicenter 3-year follow-up study was the first to demonstrate the long-term mortality and morbidity of infants born with protocol-defined transplacental treatment for fetal supraventricular tachycardia and atrial flutter. NDI was associated with the presence of fetal hydrops with subcutaneous edema at diagnosis and longer duration of fetal effusion. Neurodevelopmental delay was detected only in infants with severe congenital abnormalities. Therefore, the risk of NDI was rather low in the absence of other comorbidities. The risk for long-term neurologic morbidity might be considered, especially in cases of fetal hydrops with subcutaneous edema and/or associated severe congenital abnormalities. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Observation of growing phase space density (PSD) peak in the outer electron radiation belt has been considered evidence for local wave‐driven acceleration as a primary cause of radiation belt enhancement. However, recent studies showed that strong substorm‐associated MeV electron injections can also cause significant radiation belt enhancements on fast timescales (∼10s min). Such rapid enhancements pose challenges for determining true spatial PSD profiles. To address this, we conduct a detailed spatiotemporal analysis of electron flux and PSD during an enhancement event, using Van Allen Probes data. Our analysis reveals rapid and intermittent flux enhancements. During these rapid enhancements, inbound spacecraft observed false PSD peaks, due to spacecraft's relatively slow movement. However, we identify time intervals of stable fluxes between enhancements, enabling us to determine quasi‐stationary PSD profiles with no noticeable peaks. This study provides new insights into accurate PSD analysis, critical for understanding the mechanisms underlying radiation belt enhancements. Plain Language Summary: Radiation belt physics studies the origin and dynamics of high‐energy electrons trapped in the Earth's radiation belts. The radial profiles of these electrons' phase space density (PSD) are essential parameters for investigating their origin and dynamics. Outward‐increasing PSD profiles indicate that electrons have been transported radially (injections) from outside the radiation belt, while locally peaked profiles suggest that they were generated locally within the belt. Obtaining accurate PSD profiles is challenging due to significant temporal changes in electron flux, particularly rapid flux enhancements from injections as observed in recent studies. To examine the impact of rapid flux enhancements on PSD analysis, we closely tracked electron flux changes in space and time during an enhancement event using data from NASA's Van Allen Probes. Our results show that inbound spacecraft can observe falsely peaked PSD profiles during rapid flux enhancements, which are temporal artifacts from relatively slower spacecraft motion. By identifying time intervals of stable electron flux between enhancements, we were able to determine the true spatial PSD profiles, which overall exhibited outward‐increasing trends, consistent with injections. Our findings offer new perspective on accurately determining PSD radial profiles, which is essential for unraveling the origins of high‐energy electrons in the Earth's radiation belts. Key Points: Rapid and intermittent electron enhancement pattern significantly impacts phase space density (PSD) analysisInbound spacecraft can observe a temporal PSD peak during rapid electron enhancements driven by injectionsQuasi‐stationary time intervals between enhancements enable accurate determination of PSD radial profiles [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic endoperoxides are important sources of singlet oxygen (1O2) and their formation from polyacenes is well established. Anthracene carboxyimides are of particular interest as they exhibit excellent antitumor activity and possess unique photochemical properties. However, the photooxygenation of the synthetically versatile anthracene carboxyimide moiety has not been reported due to its competing [4+4] photodimerization reaction. Herein, we describe the reversible photo‐oxidation of an anthracene carboxyimide. X‐ray crystallographic analysis surprisingly revealed the formation of a racemic mixture of chiral hydroperoxides, rather than the expected endoperoxide. The photoproduct undergoes both photo‐ and thermolysis to form 1O2. Activation parameters were derived for the thermolysis and the mechanisms of photooxygenation and thermolysis are discussed. The anthracene carboxyimide also showed high selectivity and sensitivity for nitrite anions in acidic aqueous media and possessed stimuli‐responsive behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the criteria, based on fetal TR waveforms in late gestation, to predict biventricular circulation (BV) after birth in cases of tricuspid valve dysplasia (TVD) or Ebstein's anomaly diagnosed during the fetal period. Methods: We included 35 consecutive cases diagnosed with TVD or Ebstein's anomaly during the fetal period between January 2008 and December 2021 at Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Kanagawa, Japan. The maximum velocity and change in pressure over time of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) jet (dP/dt), estimated using TR waveforms obtained during the late‐gestation period (gestational age ≥ 28 weeks), were collected from patient records. dP/dt was calculated by dividing the change in estimated right ventricular pressure obtained using Bernoulli's principle by the time taken for the TR maximum velocity to change from one‐third to two‐thirds of its peak value. The outcome was divided into four categories: BV, single ventricular circulation, neonatal death and fetal death. Patients with BV were included in the BV group, while patients with single ventricular circulation, neonatal death or fetal death were included in the non‐BV (NBV) group. Results: Overall, 19 and 16 patients were included in the BV and NBV groups, respectively. The median TR maximum velocity was 3.3 (range, 2.4–3.6) m/s in the BV group and 1.9 (range, 1.0–3.3) m/s in the NBV group. There were no cases of postnatal BV in fetuses with TR maximum velocity < 2.4 m/s; cases with TR maximum velocity of 2.4–3.3 m/s were observed in both BV and NBV groups. Receiver‐operating‐characteristics‐curve analysis was performed on the 11 patients in the BV group and five patients in the NBV group with a TR maximum velocity of 2.4–3.3 m/s. dP/dt ≥ 350 mmHg/s and TR maximum velocity ≥ 2.9 m/s were identified as criteria for predicting the outcome in such cases. The performance of dP/dt ≥ 350 mmHg/s in predicting BV after birth in fetuses with TVD or Ebstein's anomaly was higher compared to that of TR maximum velocity ≥ 2.9 m/s (sensitivity, 90.9% vs 72.3% and specificity, 80.0% vs 80.0%, respectively). Conclusions: In fetuses with TVD or Ebstein's anomaly, the postnatal outcome may be BV or NBV when the TR maximum velocity is 2.4–3.3 m/s. In such cases, by combining the TR maximum velocity with dP/dt ≥ 350 mmHg/s, BV after birth may be predicted with greater accuracy. © 2022 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to global warming, environmental issues are one of the most interesting issues in the world. Especially for automobiles that emit pollutants, the issue of lightweight design is one of the important research areas. Thus, this study deals with the lightweight design of a camber link, an automotive suspension component, through finite element analysis. With reference to the camber link made of steel (SM45C) material that has been proven by commercialization, we will replace it with A356 aluminum alloy material to reduce the weight. Here, the design was changed through finite element analysis to reinforce the reduction of rigidity due to material substitution. In particular, we propose a method of designing a camber link considering the safety factor by analyzing the change of stress applied to the suspension. The weight reduction of about 14 % was achieved through static analysis using the weight factor. Using the dynamic optimization method through static analysis using the weight factor and stress ratio, it can be seen that the application is convenient and easy for the lightweight and optimal design of automobile parts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A general synthetic approach to halogenated tetraaryl‐ammonium salts has been developed and illustrated crystallographically. Bromide ammonium salts used as common synthetic intermediates together with Suzuki coupling of these bromides to a family of boronic acids provided a simplified strategy for arylation. Resolution of the C2 subset of spiro‐bicarbazolium derivatives led to the first examples of enantiopure spiro‐bicarbazoliums and the assignment of their absolute configuration by comparison of computational and experimental electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra. An ECD comparison with Prelog's spirobifluorenes is provided. The absolute configuration of the meta‐bromide spiro‐bicarbazolium salt was confirmed by anomalous scattering. Cruciform and stellate tetra‐substituted salts provide a test of the limits of the methodology, and their structures suggest them to be candidates for MOF building blocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a method to determine energy-dependent geometric factors for charged particle instruments in electron energy range of 125–2,200 keV aboard the geostationary satellite GEO-KOMPSAT-2A (GK2A), stationed at 128.2°E longitude. As deduced from the GEANT4 Monte Carlo simulation, the response function of the instrument in a matrix form was employed to undertake forward-fitting of the differential energy spectra against various functions such as the double Maxwellian (DM), relativistic kappa (KP), and power-law (PL). Thereby, we determined the energy-dependent geometric factors for each energy channel and instrument. The forward-fitting method was performed for a selected period of geomagnetically quiet days from May to November 2019, by applying stringent conditions to geomagnetic indices and the residual from the fit. It was found that the KP and DM functions provided better fits overall, whereas the PL function yielded considerably worse fits to the measurements. For the KP and DM functions, the validity of the geometric factors was examined against the distributions of the measured count rates and inferred model fluxes. The estimated model parameters, such as the spectral index from the KP function or the temperature from the DM functions, were also analyzed. The present study shows that the instruments provided quantitative observations of the outer radiation belt at a vantage point of 128.2°E longitude and allowed for a simple and reliable means to obtain electron fluxes based on combinations of results from numerical simulation, ground calibration, and space measurements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hamsters are popular pets worldwide but there is limited evidence on the overall health issues of pet hamsters. This study aimed to characterise the demography, disorder prevalence and mortality of pet hamsters in the United Kingdom. Method: The VetCompass study included anonymised clinical records of 16,605 hamsters. RESULTS: The most common hamster species were Syrian (golden) (Mesocricetus auratus) (n=12,197, 73.45%), Djungarian (winter white dwarf) (Phodopus sungorus) (2286, 13.77%) and Roborovski hamsters (Phodopus roborovskii) (1054, 6.35%). The most prevalent precise-level disorders recorded across all hamsters were a presentation categorised as 'wet tail' (n=293, 7.33%), disorder undiagnosed (292, 7.30%), bite injuries from other hamsters (235, 5.88%), overgrown nail(s) (165, 4.13%), overgrown incisor(s) (159, 3.98%) and traumatic injury (152, 3.80%). The most prevalent disorders groups across all species of hamster were traumatic injury (n=616, 15.41%), enteropathy (450, 11.26%), ophthalmological disorder (445, 11.13%), skin disorder (362, 9.05%) and mass (361, 9.03%). The median age at death across all hamsters was 1.75 years (interquartile range: 0.83 to 2.20, range: 0.01 to 3.65). The most common causes of death at a precise level were wet tail (7.88%, 95% confidence interval: 6.35 to 9.66), abdominal mass (6.40%, 95% confidence interval: 5.01 to 8.03), neoplasia (5.38%, 95% confidence interval: 4.11 to 6.90) and dyspnoea (3.99%, 95% confidence interval: 2.9 to 5.34). Conclusion: This study provides veterinary professionals, educators, welfare scientists and owners with an evidence base on pet hamster health. A greater understanding of the common disorders of pet hamsters can support veterinary professionals to communicate more effectively with owners on key issues and outcomes to expect from hamster ownership. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A generalized model of scavenging of the reactive radionuclide 239,240Pu was developed, in which the sorption‐desorption processes of oxidized and reduced forms on multifraction suspended particulate matter are described by first‐order kinetics. One‐dimensional transport‐diffusion‐reaction equations were solved analytically and numerically. In the idealized case of instantaneous release of 239,240Pu on the ocean surface, the profile of concentrations asymptotically tends to the symmetric spreading bulge in the form of a Gaussian moving downward with constant velocity. The corresponding diffusion coefficient is the sum of the physical diffusivity and the apparent diffusivity caused by the reversible phase transitions between the dissolved and particulate states. Using the method of moments, we analytically obtained formulas for both the velocity of the center mass and apparent diffusivity. It was found that in ocean waters that have oxygen present at great depths, we can consider in the first approximation a simplified problem for a mixture of forms with a single effective distribution coefficient, as opposed to considering the complete problem. This conclusion was confirmed by the modeling results for the well‐ventilated Eastern Mediterranean. In agreement with the measurements, the calculations demonstrate the presence of a maximum that is slowly descending for all forms of concentration. The ratio of the reduced form to the oxidized form was approximately 0.22–0.24. At the same time, 239,240Pu scavenging calculations for the anoxic Black Sea deep water reproduced the transition from the oxidized to reduced form of 239,240Pu with depth in accordance with the measurement data. Plain Language Summary: Scavenging of particle‐reactive elements is the process of the removal of a dissolved element in seawater by adsorption onto sinking particulate matters that finally deposit on the ocean floor. Scavenging is an important pathway for the transfer of nutrients and trace elements in the ocean. The radioactive isotopes of artificial origin are useful tools to provide constraints on the scavenging and organic particle removal processes. A generalized model of scavenging of reactive radionuclide 239,240Pu was developed, in which the processes of sorption‐desorption of oxidized and reduced forms of plutonium on multifraction particulate matter are described by the first‐order kinetics. We revealed that the vertical spread out of the cloud of plutonium isotope was caused by a novel dispersion mechanism equivalent to the diffusion process. The corresponding dispersion coefficient is the sum of the physical diffusivity and the apparent diffusivity caused by the reversible phase transition between the dissolved and particulate states. It was found that apparent diffusivity for scavenging large particles was several orders of magnitude greater than physical diffusivity in the deep ocean. The model reproduces striking differences in plutonium profiles in ventilated Eastern Mediterranean and the anoxic Black Sea caused by the interplay between oxidized and reduced forms. Key Points: Novel scavenging mechanism due to the reversible phase transition results in apparent diffusivity which surpasses the ocean diffusivityIn the well‐ventilated Eastern Mediterranean, the ratio of the reduced form to the oxidized form of 239,240Pu was approximately 0.22–0.24The 239,240Pu profile in the Eastern Mediterranean has one maximum, whereas in the anoxic Black Sea it has two maximums [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Numerous studies support the idea that neuromuscular blockade facilitates facemask ventilation after induction of anaesthesia. Although improved airway patency or pulmonary compliance and a resolution of laryngospasm have been suggested as possible causes, the exact mechanism remains unclear. We aimed to assess whether neuromuscular blockade improves facemask ventilation and to clarify whether this phenomenon is associated with the vocal cord angle. This prospective observational study included patients aged between 20 and 65 years scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia. After induction of anaesthesia, patients' lungs were ventilated with pressure‐controlled ventilation using a facemask. During facemask ventilation, a flexible bronchoscope was inserted through a self‐sealing diaphragm at the elbow connector attached to the facemask and breathing circuit and positioned to allow a continuous view of the vocal cords. The mean tidal volume and vocal cord angle were measured before and after administration of neuromuscular blocking drugs. Of 108 patients, 100 completed the study. Mean (SD) tidal volume ((11.0 (3.9) ml.kg‐1 vs. 13.6 (2.6) ml.kg‐1; p < 0.001) and mean (SD) vocal cord angle (17° (10°) vs. 26° (5°); p < 0.001) increased significantly after neuromuscular blockade. The proportional increase in mean tidal volume after neuromuscular blockade was positively correlated with vocal cord angle (Spearman's ρ = 0.803; p < 0.001). In conclusion, neuromuscular blockade facilitated facemask ventilation, and the improvement was correlated with further opening of the vocal cords. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Numerous studies support the idea that neuromuscular blockade facilitates facemask ventilation after induction of anaesthesia. Although improved airway patency or pulmonary compliance and a resolution of laryngospasm have been suggested as possible causes, the exact mechanism remains unclear. We aimed to assess whether neuromuscular blockade improves facemask ventilation and to clarify whether this phenomenon is associated with the vocal cord angle. This prospective observational study included patients aged between 20 and 65 years scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia. After induction of anaesthesia, patients' lungs were ventilated with pressure‐controlled ventilation using a facemask. During facemask ventilation, a flexible bronchoscope was inserted through a self‐sealing diaphragm at the elbow connector attached to the facemask and breathing circuit and positioned to allow a continuous view of the vocal cords. The mean tidal volume and vocal cord angle were measured before and after administration of neuromuscular blocking drugs. Of 108 patients, 100 completed the study. Mean (SD) tidal volume ((11.0 (3.9) ml.kg‐1 vs. 13.6 (2.6) ml.kg‐1; p < 0.001) and mean (SD) vocal cord angle (17° (10°) vs. 26° (5°); p < 0.001) increased significantly after neuromuscular blockade. The proportional increase in mean tidal volume after neuromuscular blockade was positively correlated with vocal cord angle (Spearman's ρ = 0.803; p < 0.001). In conclusion, neuromuscular blockade facilitated facemask ventilation, and the improvement was correlated with further opening of the vocal cords. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multi‐instrument data from Jang Bogo Station (JBS) in Antarctica were utilized to study ionospheric responses to the 11 May 2019 moderate geomagnetic storm. These include Vertical Incident Pulsed Ionospheric Radar (VIPIR)/Dynasonde, Fabry‐Perot Interferometer (FPI), GPS vertical total electron content (vTEC), and magnetometer. The VIPIR/Dynasonde observed long‐lasting (>11 hr) severe depletion of the electron density in the F‐region ionosphere over JBS. During the depletion interval, GPS TEC also correspondingly decreased, FPI neutral temperature was significantly enhanced, and the polar magnetic field variations showed positive and negative excursions in the Y (east) and Z (vertical) components, respectively. GK‐2 A satellite, located ∼2.5 hr west of JBS, observed negative magnetic field perturbations in the azimuthal BD component at geosynchronous orbit during the depletion of ionospheric plasma. Such a BD perturbation at geosynchronous orbit is due to the field‐aligned currents flowing out of the ionosphere. From these observations we suggest that transpolar ionospheric currents connected to the field‐aligned currents flowing on a substorm wedge‐shaped circuit act as a source of polar atmospheric heating during the moderate geomagnetic storm interval and that elevated heavy molecular gases (O2 and N2) by atmospheric heating contribute to the electron density depletion via increased recombination rate. Plain Language Summary: Geomagnetic storms considerably influence the high‐latitude ionosphere in its density distributions as well as dynamics. In the present paper, we report results of multi‐instruments observations of the stom‐time ionospheric changes with simultaneously observed thermospheric anc magnetospheric changes. The Vertical Incident Pulsed Ionospheric Radar/Dynasonde and total electron contents measured by ground GPS receiver observed depletion of the ionospheric electron density. We confirmed from model results that the depletion was caused by the upwelling atmospheric molecular gases. The heated neutral atmosphere was also confirmed by the observations for the themosphere from a Fabry‐Perot interferometer. The current system is a key process to enhanced the lower atmospheric temperature. During the depletion interval, the magnetic field on the ground showed significant variations. The geosynchronous satellite also observed negative fluctuations in the azimuthal component at around Jang Bogo Station, which corresponds to the fluctuation of the ground magnetic field. Such fluctuations at geosynchronous orbit are strongly related with field‐aligned current that are part of a current system associated with substorm. These observations support that field‐aligned current plays as a source of polar ionospheric heating during the moderate geomagnetic storm. Key Points: The disappearance of the F‐region ionosphere was observed during storm in the polar cap regionThe disappearance is associated with the atmospheric upwelling and resulting enhancement of the recombinationThe polar cap ionosphere can be significantly affected by substorm‐induced field‐aligned currents [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To increase survival of diverse Columbia River salmon populations and life history types, we developed a landscape framework for habitat restoration to assess and reduce habitat fragmentation, and thereby improve habitat functions. For the last two decades, aquatic habitat has been restored in the Columbia River Estuary (U.S.A.) to aid salmon and steelhead (Oncorhynchus spp.) listed under the Endangered Species Act. The 234‐km long estuary exhibits tidal to fluvial gradients in hydrology, sedimentology, and ecology, punctuated by large tributary rivers, cities, and land uses; it has lost two‐thirds of its historical floodplains and wetlands to development. Since 2009, an expert panel has assessed potential benefits of proposed restoration projects based on habitat "opportunity" (accessibility to juvenile salmon) and "capacity" (attributes supporting salmon production). These criteria favored large restoration projects located near the mainstem river, but they were insufficient for assessing a project's benefits due to geographic location relative to existing habitat. Our landscape framework applies the concept of restoring and conserving habitat "stepping stones" of appropriate size and location to benefit juvenile salmon growth and survival throughout their estuary residency and migration. We also compared contemporary and historical landscape conditions to identify restoration priorities. We improved our restoration project assessments by evaluating each project's benefits to juvenile salmon according to its location in the estuary relative to other habitat. Our approach operationalizes landscape ecology‐based decisions within the Columbia River Estuary for migratory salmon and is applicable to other large estuary systems with migratory aquatic species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: We developed a high‐resolution and comprehensive typing method for swine leukocyte antigen 3 (SLA‐3), an MHC class I gene, employing locus‐specific genomic PCR followed by subsequent direct sequencing. A total of 292 individuals from nine pure, one cross‐breed and six cell lines were successfully typed. A total of 21 SLA‐3 alleles were identified, of which four were found to be novel alleles. However, the allelic diversity of SLA‐3 was lower than that of previously reported class I genes, SLA‐1 and ‐2. More SLA‐3 alleles were observed in the Landrace and Yorkshire breeds than the other breeds. SLA‐3*04:01 was identified in seven out of nine breeds and was the most widely distributed allele across all breeds. Therefore, the typing method reported in this study completes our efforts to develop high‐resolution typing methods for major SLA molecules, facilitating the combined analysis of major SLA genes from field samples, which is important to understand the relationship between the adaptive immune responses against pathogens and the immunogenetic makeup of an individual. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chiral carbon nanomaterials offer numerous prospects for material science. As a fundamental building block for non‐planar graphenoid materials, pentaindenocorannulene (PIC) with its C5v symmetrical structure presents a platform for creation of supramolecular chiral carbon materials. Specifically, when uniformly penta‐substituted on its periphery, PIC generates C5 symmetrical chiral buckybowls capable of columnar stacking. The synthesis and resolution of such PICs are achieved, assignment of absolute configuration is established by comparison of ECD and VCD spectra with theory, and material characterization is reported. Evidence for columnar stacking in solution and in the crystal is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A description of the upgraded bunch‐by‐bunch feedback system for time‐resolved experiments at Pohang Light Source II (PLS‐II) is provided. The bunch‐by‐bunch feedback system has been upgraded to increase the single‐bunch current in the hybrid fill pattern of the PLS‐II facility. The project is part of the SPring‐8 and PLS‐II collaboration. The main features of the upgrade are to employ a single 500 MHz analog‐to‐digital converter (ADC) instead of the previous four 125 MHz interleaved ADCs for 500 MHz rate, to replace a single‐loop two‐dimensional feedback with two independent one‐dimensional feedback loops, to implement the tune measurement function with a single bunch, and mainly to implement single‐bunch and stretcher control. The realization of a 400 mA hybrid fill pattern including a 10 mA single bunch demonstrates the precision of the upgraded bunch‐by‐bunch feedback system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stimuli‐responsive chromic materials such as photochromics, hydrochromics, thermochromics, and electrochromics have a long history of capturing the attention of scientists due to their potential industrial applications and novelty in popular culture. However, hybrid chromic materials that combine two or more stimuli‐triggered color changing properties are not so well known. Herein, we report a design strategy that has led to a series of emissive 1,8‐naphthalimide‐viologen dyads which exhibit unusual dual photochromic and hydrochromic switching behavior in the solid‐state when embedded in a cellulose matrix. This behavior manifests as reversible solid state fluorescence hydrochromism upon changes in atmospheric relative humidity (RH), and reversible solid state photochromism upon generation of a cellulose‐stabilized viologen radical cation. In this design strategy, the bipyridinium unit serves as both a water‐sensitive receptor for the hydrochromic fluorophore‐receptor system, and a photochromic group, capable of eliciting its own visible colorimetric response, generating a fluorescence quenching radical cation with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. These dyes can be inkjet‐printed onto cellulose paper or drop‐cast as cellulose powder‐based films and can be unidirectionally cycled between three different states which can be characteristically visualized under UV light or visible light. The material's photochromism, hydrochromism, and underlying mechanism of action was investigated using computational analysis, dynamic vapor sorption/desorption isotherms, electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, and variable humidity UV‐Vis adsorption and fluorescence spectroscopies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Muscle fibers are closely related to human diseases and livestock meat quality. However, the genetics basis of microRNAs (miRNAs) in regulating muscle fibers is not completely understood. In this study, we constructed the whole genome‐wide miRNA expression profiles of porcine fast‐twitch muscle [bicepsfemoris (Bf)] and slow‐twitch muscle [soleus (Sol)], and identified hundreds of miRNAs, including four skeletal muscle‐highly expressed miRNAs, ssc‐miR‐378, ssc‐let‐7f, ssc‐miR‐26a, and ssc‐miR‐27b‐3p. Moreover, we identified 63 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs between bicepsfemoris vs. soleus, which are the key candidate miRNAs regulating the skeletal muscle fiber types. In addition, we found that the expression of DE ssc‐miR‐499‐5p was significantly correlated to the expression of Myoglobin (r = 0.6872, P < 0.0001) and Myosin heavy chain 7 (MYH7; r = 0.5408, P = 0.0020), and pH45 min (r = 0.3806, P = 0.0380) and glucose content (r = −0.4382, P = 0.0154); while the expression of DE ssc‐miR‐499‐3p was significantly correlated to the expression of Myoglobin (r = 0.5340, P = 0.0024) and pH45 min (r = 0.4857, P = 0.0065). Taken together, our data established a sound foundation for further studies on the regulatory mechanisms of miRNAs in skeletal muscle fiber conversion and meat quality traits in livestock, and could provide a genetic explanation of the role of miRNAs in human muscular diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid injection of MeV electrons associated with strong substorm dipolarization has been suggested as a potential explanation for some radiation belt enhancement events. However, it has been difficult to quantify the contribution of MeV electron injections to radiation belt enhancements. This paper presents two isolated MeV electron injection events for which we quite precisely quantify how the entire outer‐belt immediately changed with the injections. Tracking detailed outer‐belt evolution observed by Van Allen Probes, for both events, we identify large step‐like relativistic electron enhancements (roughly 1 order of magnitude increase for ∼2 MeV electron fluxes) for L ≳ 3.8 and L ≳ 4.6, respectively, that occurred on ∼30‐min time scales nearly instantaneously with the injections. The enhancements occurred almost simultaneously for 10s keV to multi‐MeV electrons, with the lowest L of enhancement region located farther out for higher energy. The outer‐belt stayed at these new levels for ≳several hours without substantial subsequent enhancements. Plain Language Summary: Since the discovery of the Earth's radiation belts, the populations of energetic particles trapped by the magnetic fields, understanding the origin of radiation belt relativistic electrons has been one of the primary goals in space physics. One proposal for their source is that relativistic electrons are rapidly injected from outside the radiation belts associated with dramatic changes of the background magnetic field. To explore the importance of this process, we conduct a case study of two isolated injection events. With a new analysis technique, we quite precisely determine how the entire radiation belt electron population immediately changed with the injections. For both events, we find large, step‐like relativistic electron enhancements in a significant part of the outer radiation belt. The enhancements occurred promptly with the injections on extremely fast time scales that are comparable to the injection process. Furthermore, they occurred almost simultaneously for a wide energy range, showing an energy‐dependent feature that can be explained by injection process. After the enhancements, the outer‐belt relativistic electron intensities stayed at the enhanced levels for at least several hours without substantial subsequent enhancements, indicating that the enhancements occurred discretely with the injections. Key Points: Quantitative determination of prompt and global outer‐belt responses for two MeV electron injection eventsLarge step‐like outer‐belt relativistic electron enhancements on ∼30‐min time scales nearly instantaneously with the injectionsThe extremely fast step‐like outer‐belt enhancements for the two events are most‐likely injection‐driven [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To assess the effects of dapagliflozin, metformin and exercise treatment on changes in plasma glucagon concentrations in individuals with overweight and HbA1c‐defined prediabetes. Materials and Methods: One‐hundred and twenty individuals with overweight (body mass index ≥ 25 kg/m2) and prediabetes (HbA1c of 39‐47 mmol/mol) were randomized to a 13‐week intervention with dapagliflozin (10 mg once daily), metformin (850 mg twice daily), exercise (30 minutes of interval training 5 days per week) or control (habitual living). A 75‐g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) (0, 30, 60 and 120 minutes) was administered at baseline, at 13 weeks (end of intervention) and at 26 weeks (end of follow‐up). Linear mixed effects models with participant‐specific random intercepts were used to investigate associations of the interventions with fasting plasma glucagon concentration, insulin/glucagon ratio and glucagon suppression during the OGTT. Results: At baseline, the median (Q1; Q3) age was 62 (54; 68) years, median fasting plasma glucagon concentration was 11 (7; 15) pmol/L, mean (SD) HbA1c was 40.9 (2.3) mmol/mol and 56% were women. Compared with the control group, fasting glucagon did not change in any of the groups from baseline to the end of the intervention (dapagliflozin group: −5% [95% CI: −29; 26]; exercise group: −8% [95% CI: −31; 24]; metformin group: −2% [95% CI: −27; 30]). Likewise, there were no differences in insulin/glucagon ratio and glucagon suppression during the OGTT between the groups. Conclusions: In individuals with prediabetes, 13 weeks of treatment with dapagliflozin, metformin or exercise was not associated with changes in fasting or post‐OGTT glucagon concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2017 Pohang earthquake (Mw 5.4) is the largest earthquake associated with fluid injection activities. We report new characteristics of the earthquake and propose a dislocation‐type model explaining previously reported observations. We identify fault geometry by relocating the hypocenters of 1,132 events that occurred during the first 3 months and then resolve their source regions as the northern, central, and southern patches, based on event groups with similar waveforms. The spatial features of these similar waveform groups, in addition to our obtained source mechanisms, indicate that oblique contraction is prevalent in the source region: Reverse faulting dominates the southern fault and the deeper part of the central fault; near‐parallel strike‐slip sense controls the northern fault and the shallower part of the central fault. Furthermore, we identify a migrating aftershock pattern that matches the fluid diffusion process along both sides of the northern and central faults. This observation suggests the interconnection of the two faults, allowing fluid transport, and implies mainshock coseismic movement along the fault intersection. The coseismic slip of the fault intersection can induce a fault‐valve process, which explains the aftershock migration pattern along the two intersecting faults. The proposed fault interaction accounts for the previously reported uplift between the two intersecting faults and successfully reproduces the non‐double‐couple mechanism of the mainshock. Our results raise the question of fluid‐faulting interactions in the aftershock seismicity of the Pohang earthquake, and the complex fault movement provides insight into the rupture process that allowed the Pohang earthquake runaway. Key Points: The 2017 Pohang earthquake (Mw 5.4) occurred in a complex fault zone with different senses of slipAftershock migration matches the diffusive process, starting at the fault intersection and progressing along both intersecting faultsThe fault interaction model explains the non‐double‐couple mechanism of the mainshock and local coseismic uplift [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) and its developement are in an increasing focus, because of its high efficiency and eco‐friendliness in storing energy by converting electrical energy into hydrogen. Recently, research has been conducted to decrease the operation temperature of SOECs below 750 °C to overcome high system costs and rapid degradation rate at high operation temperatures. Although La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3–δ (LSCF) is a promising oxygen electrode for SOEC, when the operating temperature is reduced, the reaction kinetics of the LSCF oxygen electrode is significantly decreased due to high activation energy of the oxygen ion transport. To address this issue, we developed a composite oxygen electrode of LSCF combined with Gd and Nd double doped ceria (GNDC). Due to excellent oxygen ion transport nature of GNDC, the SOEC with the LSCF‐GNDC oxygen electrode yielded impressive current density of ∼1,174 mA cm−2 at 1.3 V at 750 °C along with excellent stability. These results demonstrated that the novel LSCF‐GNDC composite is promising as an efficient and durable oxygen electrode for SOEC applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Triene 6π electrocyclization, wherein a conjugated triene undergoes a concerted stereospecific cycloisomerization to a cyclohexadiene, is a reaction of great historical and practical significance. In order to circumvent limitations imposed by the normally harsh reaction conditions, chemists have long sought to develop catalytic variants based upon the activating power of metal–alkene coordination. Herein, we demonstrate the first successful implementation of such a strategy by utilizing [(C5H5)Ru(NCMe)3]PF6 as a precatalyst for the disrotatory 6π electrocyclization of highly substituted trienes that are resistant to thermal cyclization. Mechanistic and computational studies implicate hexahapto transition‐metal coordination as responsible for lowering the energetic barrier to ring closure. This work establishes a foundation for the development of new catalysts for stereoselective electrocyclizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Letter proposes a novel technique for automatic position offset calibration for permanent‐magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) drives. Contrary to existing methods, the proposed technique estimates and compensates for the position offset without using machine true parameters or signal injection, which is possible under the condition of zero‐current control at high enough speed where parameter‐dependent terms are eliminated. To achieve this condition using uncertain parameters, speed control with absolute value feedback and model‐free current control are devised. Additionally, under this condition, not only the misalignment of the position sensor but also the sensor delay can be considered as the position offset, which improves the accuracy of the calibration. The proposed approach will be verified by experimental results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorescent, DNA‐stabilized silver nanoclusters (DNA‐AgNCs) are applied in a range of applications within nanoscience and nanotechnology. However, their diverse optical properties, mechanism of formation, and aspects of their composition remain unexplored, making the rational design of nanocluster probes challenging. Herein, a synthetic procedure is described for obtaining a high yield of emissive DNA‐AgNCs with a C‐loop hairpin DNA sequence, with subsequent purification by size‐exclusion chromatography (SEC). Through a combination of optical spectroscopy, gel electrophoresis, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS), and small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) in conjunction with the systematic study of various DNA sequences, the low‐resolution structure and mechanism of the formation of AgNCs were investigated. Data indicate that fluorescent DNA‐AgNCs self‐assemble by a head‐to‐head binding of two DNA hairpins, bridged by a silver nanocluster, resulting in the modelling of a dimeric structure harboring an Ag12 cluster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt stress negatively affects growth and development of plants. However, it is hypothesized that plant growth-promoting endophytic bacteria can greatly alleviate the adverse effects of salinity and can promote growth and development of plants. In the present research, we aimed to isolate endophytic bacteria from halotolerant plants and evaluate their capacity for promoting crop plant growth. • The bacterial endophytes were isolated from selected plants inhabiting sand dunes at Pohang beach, screened for plant growth-promoting traits and applied to rice seedlings under salt stress (NaCl; 150 mM). • Out of 59 endophytic bacterial isolates, only six isolates, i.e. Curtobacterium oceanosedimentum SAK1, Curtobacterium luteum SAK2, Enterobacter ludwigii SAK5, Bacillus cereus SA1, Micrococcus yunnanensis SA2, Enterobacter tabaci SA3, resulted in a significant increase in the growth of Waito-C rice. The cultural filtrates of bacterial endophytes were tested for phytohormones, including indole-3-acetic acid, gibberellins and organic acids. Inoculation of the selected strains considerably reduced the amount of endogenous ABA in rice plants under NaCl stress, however, they increased GSH and sugar content. Similarly, these strains augmented the expression of flavin monooxygenase (OsYUCCA1) and auxin efflux carrier (OsPIN1) genes under salt stress. • In conclusion, the pragmatic application of the above selected bacterial strains alleviated the adverse effects of NaCl stress and enhanced rice growth attributes by producing various phytohormones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2017 Mw 5.5 Pohang earthquake in South Korea, the first reported and largest magnitude‐induced earthquake, occurred near the enhanced geothermal power plant in Pohang on 15 November 2017. We compute the spatiotemporal changes in poroelastic stresses perturbed by injected fluid under various conditions to better understand the occurrences of the Pohang earthquake and the small‐magnitude earthquakes preceding it. Space‐time variation of the earthquakes that occurred before the Pohang earthquake correlates significantly with fluid injection history between January 2016 and September 2017. We attribute the timing in earthquake occurrence to slow fluid diffusion, making hydraulic diffusivity of bedrock the critical model parameter for representing this slow process. In this context, the delay between the injection and the Pohang earthquake requires diffusivity estimates within a range of 1 × 10−4–5 × 10−4 m2/s for damaged granodiorite at 4–5 km, corresponding to the depth range between the well and the focal depth. According to these estimates, the pore pressure and thus the Coulomb failure stress changes are further enhanced by each injection with minimum stress dissipation. We find fluid injection can result in a change of the Coulomb stress of up to 0.4–1.1 bar, exceeding those associated with the 2016 Mw 5.5 Gyeongju earthquake by 2 orders of magnitude. Key Points: We calculate poroelastic stress changes associated with fluid injection to understand the nature of the 2017 Pohang earthquakeOur slow diffusion model with a low hydraulic diffusivity parameter explains the delayed occurrence of the 2017 Pohang earthquake [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We found positive effects of seminatural habitats, as a foraging resource of pollen and nectar, on reproductive performance and behavior of bumblebees. Whenever bumblebees wanted to leave the nest to forage, they had the choice to fly and collect nectar and pollen on the flower resources surrounding the colony nest, or they could collect sugar water and pollen (depending on the experimental treatment) in the two feeders at the colony entrance. [Extracted from the article]

Resource availability in agricultural landscapes has been disturbed for many organisms, including pollinator species. Abundance and diversity in flower availability benefit bee populations; however, little is known about which of protein or carbohydrate resources may limit their growth and reproductive performance. Here, we test the hypothesis of complementary resource limitation using a supplemental feeding approach. We applied this assumption with bumble bees (Bombus terrestris), assuming that colony growth and reproductive performance should depend on the continuous supply of carbohydrates and proteins, through the foraging for nectar and pollen, respectively. We placed wild‐caught bumble bee colonies along a landscape gradient of seminatural habitats, and monitored the colonies' weight, foraging activity, and reproductive performance during the whole colony cycle. We performed supplemental feeding as an indicator of landscape resource limitation, using a factorial design consisting of the addition of sugar water (carbohydrate, supplemented or not) crossed by pollen (protein, supplemented or not). Bumble bee colony dynamics showed a clear seasonal pattern with a period of growth followed by a period of stagnation. Higher abundance of seminatural habitats resulted in reducing the proportion of pollen foragers relative to all foragers in both periods, and in improving the reproductive performance of bumble bees. Interestingly, the supplemental feeding of sugar water positively affected the colony weight during the stagnation period, and the supplemental feeding of pollen mitigated the landscape effect on pollen collection investment. Single and combined supplementation of sugar water and pollen increased the positive effect of seminatural habitats on reproductive performance. This study reveals a potential colimitation in pollen and nectar resources affecting foraging behavior and reproductive performance in bumble bees, and indicates that even in mixed agricultural landscapes with higher proportions of seminatural habitats, bumble bee populations face resource limitations. We conclude that the seasonal management of floral resources must be considered in conservation to support bumble bee populations and pollination services in farmlands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fused in sarcoma (FUS) is a DNA/RNA‐binding protein associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal lobar degeneration. The exact molecular mechanisms by which FUS results in neurotoxicity have not yet been fully elucidated. Here, we found that parkin is a genetic suppressor of defective phenotypes induced by exogenous human wild type FUS in Drosophila. Although parkin overexpression did not modulate the FUS protein expression level, the locomotive defects in FUS‐expressing larvae and adult flies were rescued by parkin expression. We found that FUS expression in muscle tissues resulted in a reduction of the levels and assembly of mitochondrial complex I and III subunits, as well as decreased ATP. Remarkably, expression of parkin suppressed these mitochondrial dysfunctions. Our results indicate parkin as a neuroprotective regulator of FUS‐induced proteinopathy by recovering the protein levels of mitochondrial complexes I and III. Our findings on parkin‐mediated neuroprotection may expand our understanding of FUS‐induced ALS pathogenesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten sym‐penta and deca‐X substituted corannulenes (1–10; X=H, F, CH3, or CF3) define a library of fluorous compounds comprising high symmetry non‐planar aromatic compunds. They provide a group of structurally similar, yet physically distinct structures manifesting special chemical behavior related to their degree of fluorination. Owing to their bowl forms, corannulene derivatives are distinct from planar polynuclear aromatic compounds; they have relatively high dipole moments, accept 1–4 electrons, and display room temperature fluorescence as well as low temp phosphorescence. Electronic structure theory predicts the bowl inversion barrier and physical properties. The syntheses of sym‐pentafluorocorannulene by an efficient late stage fluorination affords a key derivative to calibrate predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Landscapes on either side of the martian topographic dichotomy bear distinct soil chemistry, but the processes associated with this distinction remain poorly understood. Here, correlation of soil chemistry at global to regional scales is examined with multivariate analysis of Gamma‐Ray Spectrometer chemical maps and the Thermal Emission Spectrometer‐derived Dust Cover Index (DCI). In the analysis, the northern lowlands show a strong S‐Cl correlation, contrasting with the southern highlands, which show a stronger S‐H2O correlation. These observations suggest aqueous interaction with soils throughout the southern highlands, preferentially dissolving Cl compounds and weakening S‐Cl correlation. Strong S‐Cl correlations in the northern lowlands suggest less interaction with aqueous H2O. Additionally, regional analyses demonstrate that DCI does not correlate with volatile chemistry at smaller scales and that Ca may be an important component of volatile‐bearing material. These results provide new evidence for widespread aqueous interaction and possibly alteration of soil in the southern highlands. Plain Language Summary: Mars can be divided into two large regions: the northern lowlands and southern highlands, separated by a planet‐circling change in elevation known as the topographic dichotomy. The soils that cover the landscape in these two areas appear distinct from one another, although it is unclear what processes cause this distinction. This investigation examines the chemistry of soils on either side of the dichotomy based on Gamma‐Ray Spectrometer data, to elucidate changes in soils. The identified changes in correlation of three soil components, sulfur, chlorine, and H2O, suggest that much of the southern highlands soils have interacted with water, but fluid interaction occurred far less in the northern lowlands. These findings show that the processes by which water interacts with soils were likely active over larger areas in the southern highlands than previously realized, but such processes were not active after the northern lowlands soils were deposited. Key Points: Study represents first multivariate analysis of global martian soil chemistryChemical trends suggest widespread aqueous interaction with soil in the southern highlands and less interaction in, or transport of altered soils to, the northern lowlandsFindings give evidence for potentially widespread altered soils in southern highlands [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanut ( PN) and tree nuts ( TNs) are common causes of anaphylaxis in Western countries, but no information is available in Korea. To feature clinical characteristics of anaphylaxis caused by PN, TNs, and seeds, a retrospective medical record review was performed in 14 university hospitals in Korea (2009-2013). One hundred and twenty-six cases were identified, with the mean age of 4.9 years. PN, walnut ( WN), and pine nut accounted for 32.5%, 41.3%, and 7.1%, respectively. The median values of specific IgE ( sIgE) to PN, WN, and pine nut were 10.50, 8.74, and 4.61 kUA/l, respectively. Among 50 cases managed in the emergency department, 52.0% were treated with epinephrine, 66.0% with steroid, 94.0% with antihistamines, 36.0% with oxygen, and 48.0% with bronchodilator. In conclusion, WN, PN, and pine nut were the three most common triggers of anaphylaxis in Korean children, and anaphylaxis could occur at remarkably low levels of sIgE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To test the hypothesis that enteral zinc intake is associated with improved preterm infant growth during neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) hospitalisation.Methods: This prospective cohort study enrolled 105 preterm infants at a tertiary referral centre. Enteral zinc intake was calculated at day of life 14, and growth was measured as change in weight, length and head circumference from birth to discharge. Nonparametric tests assessed the contribution of breast milk vs formula and enteral zinc intake on weight, length and head circumference growth. Partial correlations evaluated the impact of baseline health status and caloric intake on growth. Multiple regression analysis was then completed to determine the unique contribution of zinc intake to weight gain and head circumference growth.Results: Total enteral zinc intake was positively associated with weight gain (r = 0.4, p < 0.01) and head circumference growth (r = 0.3, p < 0.01) during NICU hospitalisation. Further, multiple regression analysis showed higher zinc intake is linked to weight gain during NICU hospitalisation after accounting for postmenstrual age at birth.Conclusion: Increased early enteral zinc intake is linked to weight gain during NICU hospitalisation, highlighting the importance of enteral zinc intake in early infant nutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid assessment of the volume and the rate at which gas and pyroclasts are injected into the atmosphere during volcanic explosions is key to effective eruption hazard mitigation. Here, we use data from a dense infrasound network deployed in 2017 on Mt. Etna, Italy, to estimate eruptive volume flow rates (VFRs) during small gas‐and‐ash explosions. We use a finite‐difference time‐domain approximation to compute the acoustic Green's functions and perform a full waveform inversion for a multipole source, combining monopole and horizontal dipole terms. The inversion produces realistic estimates of VFR, on the order of 4 × 104 m3/s and well‐defined patterns of source directivity. This is the first application of acoustic waveform inversion at Mt. Etna. Our results demonstrate that acoustic waveform inversion is a mature and robust tool for assessment of source parameters and holds potential as a tool to provide rapid estimates of VFR in near real time. Plain Language Summary: Rapid and realistic assessment of the volume of erupted material, and the rate at which gas and pyroclasts are injected into the atmosphere during volcanic explosions, is crucial for effective monitoring and hazard mitigation. These parameters, for instance, are key inputs into models of atmospheric rise and transport of volcanic plumes. Volcanic explosions, among many other phenomena, generate atmospheric pressure waves known as infrasound. These sound waves that propagate at frequencies below 20 Hz, represent a powerful tool to investigate the dynamics and source mechanisms of volcanic explosions. Here, we demonstrate how recordings of acoustic infrasound generated by explosions at Mt. Etna can be used to assess the volume flow history of these events. We introduce and apply a data modeling workflow that could be implemented in near real time at Mt. Etna and other volcanoes worldwide. Key Points: This is the first application of acoustic waveform inversion for small explosions at Mt. Etna volcano, ItalyWe demonstrate the feasibility of applying this inversion method for large volcanoes using up to 14 stationsAcoustic waveform inversion holds potential for volume flow estimation in near real time at Mt. Etna and other volcanoes [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modification of metal electrode surfaces with functional organic molecules is an important part of organic electronics. The interaction of the buckminsterfullerene fragment molecule pentaindenocorannulene with a Cu(100) surface is studied by scanning tunneling microscopy, dispersion‐enabled density functional theory, and force field calculations. Experimental and theoretical methods suggest that two adjacent indeno groups become oriented parallel to the surface upon adsorption under mild distortion of the molecular frame. The binding mechanism between molecule and surface is dominated by strong electrostatic interaction owing to Pauli repulsion. Two‐dimensional aggregation at room temperature leads to a single lattice structure in which all molecules are oriented unidirectionally. Their relative arrangement in the lattice suggests noncovalent intermolecular interaction through C−H⋅⋅⋅π bonding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we present detailed K and Th distribution maps of the South Pole‐Aitken (SPA) basin with a (100‐km)2 resolution for the compositional and evolutional studies. These maps have been constructed for the first time from the Kaguya gamma‐ray spectrometer (KGRS) data sets acquired during SELENE (Kaguya) low‐altitude observations at 50 km. The K and Th distribution maps are compared with those obtained by KGRS high‐altitude observation and Lunar Prospector GRS high‐ and low‐altitude observations. The use of KGRS low‐altitude data sets with high energy resolution enable to obtain unambiguous counts of individual gamma‐ray lines, leading precise elemental maps of K and Th comparing to previous studies. K and Th abundances at the areas of some large impact craters infilled with mare deposits are lower than that in surrounding regions. Geologic maps of the SPA region obtained by the Kaguya Multiband Imager are assimilated and confirmed based on the K and Th distributions. The evolution hypothesis of the SPA region based on the SPA giant impact event suggested by some previous model studies is also confirmed. Plain Language Summary: Detailed K and Th distribution maps around South Pole‐Aitken (SPA) basin at lunar southern pole were obtained by the Kaguya gamma‐ray spectrometer data sets. Incompatible elements such as K and Th are important to investigate the lunar mantle and crust since they remain as liquid until the final stage of crystallization. Our K and Th maps implies the large SPA forming impact event led to ejection of K and Th rich materials, enhancing K and Th at SPA region. The SPA impact also caused convection of K and Th rich liquid layer toward the lunar nearside, resulting a depletion of these elements beneath SPA region. Key Points: Detailed potassium and thorium abundance maps at South Pole‐Aitken region are constructed with the Kaguya gamma‐ray spectrometer data setsComposition and evolution of the South Pole‐Aitken were compared and discussed with Kaguya Multiband Imager insterument resultsAnalysis of the K and Th maps gives details about ejection and convectional transport of urKREEP layer from the lunar farside to nearside [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phase lag entropy, an electro-encephalography-based hypnotic depth indicator, calculates diversity in temporal patterns of phase relationship. We compared the performance of phase lag entropy with the bispectral index™ in 30 patients scheduled for elective surgery. We initiated a target-controlled infusion of propofol using the Schnider model, and assessed sedation levels using the Modified Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation scale every 30 s with each stepwise increase in the effect-site propofol concentration. Phase lag entropy and bispectral index values were recorded. The correlation coefficient and prediction probability between phase lag entropy or bispectral index and the sedation level or effect-site propofol concentration were analysed. We calculated baseline variabilities of phase lag entropy and bispectral index. In addition, we applied a non-linear mixed-effects model to obtain the pharmacodynamic relationships among the effect-site propofol concentration, phase lag entropy or bispectral index and sedation level. As sedation increased, phase lag entropy and bispectral index both decreased. The prediction probability values of phase lag entropy and bispectral index for sedation levels were 0.697 and 0.700 (p = 0.261) and for the effect-site concentration of propofol were 0.646 and 0.630 (p = 0.091), respectively. Baseline variability in phase lag entropy and bispectral index was 3.3 and 5.7, respectively. The predicted propofol concentrations, using the Schnider pharmacokinetic model, producing a 50% probability of moderate and deep sedation were 1.96 and 3.01 μg.ml-1 , respectively. Phase lag entropy was found to be useful as a hypnotic depth indicator in patients receiving propofol sedation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cardiac vagal tone can be monitored non‐invasively via electrocardiogram measurements of the high‐frequency power spectrum of heart rate variability (HF‐HRV). Vagal inputs to the upper GI tract are cumbersome to measure non‐invasively. Although cardiac and GI vagal outputs arise from distinct brainstem nuclei, the nucleus ambiguus, and the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, respectively, we aim to test the hypotheses that in freely moving rats HF‐HRV power is correlated to proximal antral motility and can be altered by high levels of circulating estrogen and vagal‐selective treatments known to affect antral motility. Methods: Male and female Sprague‐Dawley rats were implanted with a miniaturized strain gauge on the proximal gastric antrum and ECG electrodes to collect simultaneous antral motility and electrocardiogram. After recovery, male rats underwent baseline recordings before and after administration of saline (N = 8), cholecystokinin (CCK; N = 7), ghrelin (N = 6), or food (N = 6). Female rats (N = 6) underwent twice‐daily recordings to determine baseline correlations during estrous cycle stages. Key Results: There was a significant positive correlation between HF‐HRV and proximal antral motility at baseline in males and females with low, but not high, estrogen levels. In male rats, the significant positive correlation was maintained following CCK, but not ghrelin or food administration. Conclusions and Inferences: Our data suggest that in rodents, HF‐HRV positively correlates to proximal antral motility at baseline conditions in males and low‐estrogen females or following interventions, such as CCK, known to affect vagal tone. This correlation is not observed when antral motility is influenced by more complex events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acoustic waveform inversions can provide estimates of volume flow rate and erupted mass, enhancing the ability to estimate volcanic emissions. Previous studies have generally assumed a simple acoustic source (monopole); however, more complex and accurate source reconstructions are possible with a combination of equivalent sources (multipole). We deployed a high‐density acoustic network around Yasur volcano, Vanuatu, including acoustic sensors on a tethered aerostat that was moved every ∼15–60 min. Using this unique data set we invert for the acoustic multipole source mechanism using a grid search approach for 80 events to examine volume flow rates and dipole strengths. Our method utilizes finite‐difference time‐domain modeling to obtain the full 3‐D Green's functions that account for topography. Inversion results are compared using a monopole‐only, multipole (monopole and dipole), simulations that do not include topography, and those that use a subset of sensors. We find that the monopole source is a good approximation when topography is considered. However, initial compression amplitude is not fully captured by a monopole source so source directionality cannot be ruled out. The monopole solution is stable regardless of whether a monopole‐only or multipole inversion is performed. Inversions for the dipole components produce estimates consistent with observed source directionality, though these inversions are somewhat unstable given station configurations of typical deployments. Our results suggest that infrasound waveform inversion shows promise for realistic quantitative source estimates, but additional work is necessary to fully explore inversion stability, uncertainty, and robustness. Key Points: We perform multipole acoustic inversions accounting for topography with a 3‐D networkThe estimated volume flow rate solution is similar regardless of the assumed source mechanismInversions for dipole components are unreliable for a network including a single aerostat sensor [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Several studies have assessed the effect of patient education regarding hand eczema (HE) severity and quality of life. Few studies, however, have evaluated patients' knowledge. Objectives: To examine knowledge of skin protection in HE patients following a guided talk, and to identify variables associated with knowledge. Methods: HE patients referred to the outpatient dermatological clinic, Bispebjerg Hospital, between January 2013 and July 2014 were offered a guided talk on HE prevention. HE severity and the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) score were assessed. A questionnaire comprising 10 questions about skin protection was sent 1 to 2.5 years later. Results: One hundred and twenty patients responded to the questionnaire (response 53.5%). The mean percentage of correct answers was 74.7%. Sixty per cent responded correctly to at least eight questions. Male sex, older age and education for >5 years were associated with a low level of knowledge. Education for 3 to 4 years (P = 0.045) was associated with a higher level of knowledge. No significant impact of previous/current atopic dermatitis, HE severity or previous information on skin protection was found with respect to level of knowledge. Conclusions: Females and patients with education for 3 to 4 years showed the highest level of knowledge, whereas males, older patients and patients with education for >5 years should be brought more into focus in skin protection programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variability in climate and weather in many land regions is dominated by a seasonal cycle that is typically defined by as a stable, repeated pattern. Defining the annual cycle as strictly stationary, however, precludes the possibility of changes in its amplitude from one year to the next. In this study, we target and extract the modulated annual cycle in terrestrial water storage with a statistical analysis technique specifically suited to this application. We estimate the amplitude modulation of the annual cycle in terrestrial water storage in order to assess the drivers of strength of the seasonal water cycle from year to year and identify trends in the amplitude that are persistent over the 13‐year record used here. We find that climate variability is found to be one of the dominant drivers of the strength of the annual cycle in terrestrial water storage, with El Niño‐Southern Oscillation found to play a particularly significant role, as identified in previous studies. Key Points: The amplitude of the seasonal cycle in terrestrial water storage is shown to vary significantly from year to yearInterannual to decadal climate variability is one of the dominant drivers of the amplitude of the seasonal cycleTrends in the amplitude of the seasonal cycle are found indicating potential shifts in the strength of the seasonal cycle [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy alcohol consumption leads to neuropathological damage and alcohol use disorder, which affects the health of people and results in a cost burden. However, the genes modulating sensitivity to ethanol remain largely unknown. Here, we identified a novel gene, Drosophilaglutathione transferase omega 1 (GstO1), which plays a critical role in regulating sensitivity to ethanol sedation. GstO1 mutant flies showed highly increased ethanol sensitivity. Furthermore, the expression level of GstO1 regulates the behavioural response to ethanol, because decreasing and increasing GstO1 affects sedation sensitivity in a contrasting manner. In addition, the RNA interference‐mediated knockdown of GstO1 expression reveals that GstO1 mediates sensitivity to ethanol sedation in neurones, including dopaminergic and serotonergic neurones. Altogether, our findings provide the first evidence for the involvement of glutathione transferase in the response to alcohol in Drosophila and provide a novel mechanistic insight into the toxicity and sensitivity of ethanol exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]