bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stages of soil development in the coastal zone of a disappearing lake—a case study from central Poland
Authors: Kruczkowska Bogusława , Jonczak Jerzy , Słowińska Sandra , Bartczak Arkadiusz , Kramkowski Mateusz , Uzarowicz Łukasz , Tyszkowski Sebastian , Słowiński Michał
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study was to estimate the impact of lake disappearance, groundwater table fluctuations, and some aspects of human pressure on stages of soil cover development in the catchment of Lake Rakutowskie.

Materials and methods

Research was conducted in soil chronosequence composed of eight soil profiles located in 785-m-long transect. Soils were sampled every 10 cm. Physical and chemical properties were determined with the use of disturbed and undisturbed samples. Radiocarbon dates were obtained for the bottom part of peat in each soil profile. The mineral composition of selected soil samples was determined using the X-ray diffraction (XRD) method. Additionally, the hydrological conditions were continuously monitored from July 27, 2013 to September 23, 2014.

Results and discussion

An increased rate of shallow lakes overgrowth and final disappearance is a commonly observed process in the European lowlands. This paper presents and discusses the influence of changes in the range of the Lake Rakutowskie wetlands complex (central Poland) and water level fluctuations on soil cover transformation in the immediate vicinity of the lake. Five major phases of soil cover development (from Subaquatic Histosols (Limnic) to Hypereutric Regosol (Drainic, Humic)) were hypothetically reconstructed based on detailed studies of soil physical and chemical properties, mineral composition, water level fluctuations, and radiocarbon dating. The degree of peat decomposition in the studied profiles increased with the distance from the contemporary lake surface. Along with the progressive dehydration and mineralization of organic soils, their physical and chemical properties deteriorated, which is visible, e.g., in soil structure, and mineral and chemical composition (especially TOC and TN). Obtained radiocarbon ages of selected samples indicate that the oldest peat layers developed about 5856 cal BCE (6970 ± 70 14C BP), while the youngest were deposited about 1074 cal CE (980 ± 40 14C BP)–1573 cal CE (300 ± 35 14C BP). Hydrological studies indicate a progressive process of lake disappearance.

Conclusions

The process of soil cover transforming of the studied area takes place relatively quick, mainly recently due to the influence of human activity. Based on these results, it can be predicted that the lake will most likely disappear in a relatively short time, and the soil cover will be entirely in the fifth phase (P5) of evolution.
Urban soil microbial community and microbial-related carbon storage are severely limited by sealing
Authors: Pereira Marlon Correa , O’Riordan Roisin , Stevens Carly
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Urbanisation causes changes in land use, from natural or rural to urban, leading to the sealing of soil and the replacement of vegetation by buildings, roads and pavements. The sealing process impacts soil properties and services and can lead to negative consequences for microbial attributes and processes in soil. At present, information about the microbial community following soil sealing is limited. As such, we investigated how changes in soil physical and chemical properties caused by sealing affect the soil microbial community and soil ecosystem services.

Material and methods

Soils were sampled beneath impervious pavements (sealed) and from adjacent pervious greenspace areas (unsealed). Soil properties (total C, total N, C:N ratio and water content) and microbial attributes (microbial biomass C, N-mineralisation and phospholipid fatty acids—PLFA) were measured and correlated.

Results and discussion

A reduction of total C, total N, and water content were observed in sealed soil, whilst the C:N ratio increased. Sealed soil also presented a reduction in microbial attributes, with low N-mineralisation revealing suppressed microbial activity. PLFA data presented positive correlations with total C, total N and water content, suggesting that the microbial community may be reduced in sealed soil as a response to soil properties. Furthermore, fungal:bacterial and gram-positive:gram-negative bacterial ratios were lower in sealed soil indicating degradation in C sequestration and a consequential effect on C storage.

Conclusions

Sealing causes notable changes in soil properties leading to subsequent impacts upon the microbial community and the reduction of microbial activity and soil C storage potential.
Effect of Ozonation Process on the Energy Metabolism in Raspberry Fruit During Storage at Room Temperature
Authors: Piechowiak Tomasz , Sowa Patrycja , Balawejder Maciej
Published: January 2021

The major aim of this research was to investigate the effect of ozone treatment on the energy metabolism in raspberry fruit during storage at room temperature. Raspberries were ozonated with an ozone concentration of 8–10 mg L−1, for 30 min, every 12 h of storage at room temperature for 72 h. The results indicated that ozone treatment significantly enhanced the activities of mitochondrial respiratory enzymes, such as succinate dehydrogenase, cytochrome C oxidase, and H+-ATPase, which contributed to maintain the high level of ATP and energy charge in fruit during storage. Moreover, the energy metabolism in mitochondria was closely correlated with the antioxidant potential of raspberry fruit. This study has given an experimental evidence that ozonation procedure in proposed process conditions significantly affects the mitochondrial respiratory system leading to maintain the high quality of the fruit over a long period of storage at room temperature.
Peer network Status and Depressive Symptoms Among Early Adolescents: Testing the Mediating Effects of Metaperception and Loneliness
Authors: Humenny Grzegorz , Grygiel Paweł , Dolata Roman , Świtaj Piotr
Published: January 2021

Previous research shows that deficits in social relationships increase the risk of depression. This study tests the hypothesis that among early adolescents, their status in their peer network (likeability/dislikeability) will be associated with depressive symptoms but only indirectly, through the subjective perception of this status (positive/negative metaperception) and loneliness (feeling of social isolation). Data were collected using sociometric methods and self-report scales from 388 students aged 12–13. Path analysis was applied to verify the hypothesized relationships between the study variables. The findings indicate that: (1) status in the peer network and its perception affect depressive symptoms only indirectly, through loneliness; (2) depressive symptoms depend directly on loneliness alone; (3) status in the peer network does not directly translate into loneliness—its effect is mediated by metaperception; (4) the negative dimension of the peer network status indirectly affects both loneliness and depressive symptoms more strongly than the positive one. The main limitation of the research is its cross-sectional design, which precludes definite conclusions about the direction of the relationships observed. The results obtained help to clarify the complex mechanisms through which objective status in the peer network, its subjective perception and feelings of loneliness contribute to the severity of depressive symptoms among early adolescents. On the practical side, the findings highlight the importance of developing and implementing interventions targeting both the objective and subjective aspects of social relations for the prevention of depression in this age group.
Analysis and evaluation of the renewability of the deep groundwater in the Huaihe River Basin, China
Authors: Sun Xiaomin , Lin Jin , Gu Weizu , Min Xing , Han Jiangbo , Dai Yunfeng , Liu Peng , Wang Siru
Published: January 2021

Groundwater is the major source for resident drinking, industrial development, and agricultural irrigation in the Huai River Basin (HRB). With the development of industry and agriculture, exploitation of the deep groundwater increases dramatically in the HRB in recent years. Therefore, analysis and evaluation the renewability of the deep groundwater in the HRB is critical. In our study, a total of 390 groundwater samples were collected along four profiles in 35 cities and counties within the HRB to obtain their hydrochemical characteristics and isotopic data. Based on the isotopic data of these samples, three deep groundwater subsystems: the Shaying River System, the Guohe River System, and the Ancient Yellow River System were identified. The further comparison indicates that the deep and shallow groundwater systems of Guohe River System and Shaying River System have good differentiation. While, the connection of deep and shallow aquifer of Ancient Yellow River System is strong. According to the calculation results based on the combination of stable isotopes and water chemistry, the renewable ability of deep groundwater of Ancient Yellow River, Shaying river, and Guo river are 36%, 22%, and 12%, respectively, which implies faster renewal rate and greater exploitation potential.
Herbicide stress-induced DNA methylation changes in two Zea mays inbred lines differing in Roundup® resistance
Authors: Tyczewska Agata , Gracz-Bernaciak Joanna , Szymkowiak Jakub , Twardowski Tomasz
Published: January 2021

DNA methylation plays a crucial role in the regulation of gene expression, activity of transposable elements, defense against foreign DNA, and inheritance of specific gene expression patterns. The link between stress exposure and sequence-specific changes in DNA methylation was hypothetical until it was shown that stresses can induce changes in the gene expression through hypomethylation or hypermethylation of DNA. To detect changes in DNA methylation under herbicide stress in two local Zea mays inbred lines exhibiting differential susceptibility to Roundup®, the methylation-sensitive amplified polymorphism (MSAP) technique was used. The overall DNA methylation levels were determined at approximately 60% for both tested lines. The most significant changes were observed for the more sensitive Z. mays line, where 6 h after the herbicide application, a large increase in the level of DNA methylation (attributed to the increase in fully methylated bands (18.65%)) was noted. DNA sequencing revealed that changes in DNA methylation profiles occurred in genes encoding heat shock proteins, membrane proteins, transporters, kinases, lipases, methyltransferases, zinc-finger proteins, cytochromes, and transposons. Herbicide stress-induced changes depended on the Z. mays variety, and the large increase in DNA methylation level in the sensitive line resulted in a lower ability to cope with stress conditions.
Waiting time before NDT of welded offshore steel grades under consideration of delayed hydrogen-assisted cracking
Authors: Wilhelm Eugen , Mente Tobias , Rhode Michael
Published: January 2021

Offshore wind turbines (OWT) are a major goal of the energy strategy of Germany encompassing the increase of the installed wind power. OWT components are manufactured from welded steel plates with thicknesses up to 200 mm. The underlying standards and technical recommendations for construction of OWTs encompass specifications of so-called minimum waiting time (MWT) before non-destructive testing of the weld joints is allowed. Reason is the increased risk of time-delayed hydrogen-assisted cold cracking as hydrogen diffusion is very slow due to the very thick plates. The strict consideration of those long MWT up to 48 h during the construction of OWTs leads to significant financial burden (like disproportionately high costs for installer ships as well as storage problems (onshore)). In this study, weld joints made of S355 ML were examined in comparison with the offshore steel grade S460 G2+M. The aim was to optimize, i.e., reduce, the MWT before NDT considering varied heat input, hydrogen concentration and using self-restraint weld tests. This would significantly reduce the manufacturing time and costs of OWT construction. To quantify the necessary delay time until hydrogen-assisted cold cracks appear, acoustic emission analysis was applied directly after welding for at least 48 h.
High urinary excretion rate of glucose attenuates serum uric acid level in type 2 diabetes with normal renal function
Authors: Qin Y. , Zhang S. , Cui S. , Shen X. , Wang J. , Cui X. , Zuo M. , Gao Z. , Zhang J. , Yang J. , Zhu H. , Chang B.
Published: January 2021

Aims/Introduction

The relationship between urinary excretion rate of glucose (UEGL) and uric acid (UA) metabolism in adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) remains unclear to date. This study aimed to investigate the relationships of UEGL with serum UA (SUA), urinary excretion rate of uric acid (UEUA), and renal clearance of uric acid (CLUA) in adults with T2D. We hypothesised that high UEGL increases UA excretion, which in turn leads to lower SUA.

Materials and methods

This was a cross-sectional study of 635 inpatients with T2D recruited between 2018 and 2019. The relationships of UEGL with UEUA, CLUA, and hyperuricaemia were assessed using analysis of covariance and multivariate regression analysis.

Results

Patients in the higher quartile of UEGL tended to have lower SUA levels than those in the lower quartile. In contrast, patients in the higher quartile of UEGL tended to have higher CLUA (p for trend < 0.0001), and a similar trend was observed for UEUA. In adjusted multivariable linear regression model, UEGL was negatively correlated with SUA (β = − 0.023, 95% CI − 0.034 to − 0.013, p < 0.0001). However, positive correlations of UEGL with UEUA (β = 0.046, 95% CI 0.018–0.074, p = 0.001) and CLUA (β = 0.063, 95% CI 0.042–0.085, p < 0.0001) were found. Furthermore, consistent significant inverse associations were observed between quartiles of UEGL and hyperuricaemia in the adjusted multivariate logistic regression model.

Conclusions

A high UEGL level was positively correlated with UEUA and CLUA. Moreover, it was inversely associated with SUA level, and a consistently increased UEGL level reduced the risk of hyperuricaemia in patients with T2D.
Witnessed Cardiac Arrest in a Hypothermic Avalanche Victim Completely Buried for 2 Hours
Authors: Daniel Nicholas , Weinberg Nicholas , Carus Frank , Church Benjamin , Zafren Ken
Published: January 2021

A 34-y-old skier triggered a wind slab avalanche and was completely buried for over 2 h. After extrication by rescuers, the victim was breathing and conscious. Despite directions from the rescuers against standing up, the victim struggled to free himself and ultimately stood upright before collapsing in cardiac arrest. The rescuers performed cardiopulmonary resuscitation during transport to a nearby trailhead, where a helicopter emergency medical services crew found that the victim was in ventricular fibrillation. After further resuscitative efforts, including advanced life support, the victim was declared dead at the scene. Afterdrop and circumrescue collapse were the most likely triggers of cardiac arrest. This case highlights a need for rescuers, emergency medical services, and hospitals to be prepared to care for victims with hypothermia. To prevent circumrescue collapse, victims with hypothermia should be extricated gently, should not be allowed to stand, and should be placed flat. This may be difficult or impossible, as in this case. Hypothermic victims in cardiac arrest may require prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation, preferably with mechanical compressions, during transport to a hospital that has protocols for rewarming using extracorporeal life support. Resuscitation from hypothermic cardiac arrest should not be terminated before the victim has been rewarmed.
Acute Kidney Injury Following Star Fruit Ingestion: A Case Series
Authors: Herath Nalaka , Kodithuwakku Gathika , Dissanayake Tharaka , Rathnathunga Neelakanthi , Weerakoon Kosala
Published: January 2021

Star fruit ( Averrhoa carambola) is a popular fruit in many tropical countries, including Sri Lanka. It is rich in oxalic acid, which is nephrotoxic in higher concentrations. The development of both acute (AKI) and chronic kidney injury after oxalate nephropathy is often underrecognized. Here we discuss the risk factors, clinical features, treatment, and outcomes of 4 patients who developed AKI after star fruit ingestion. Baseline clinical characteristics, the amount of star fruit ingested, clinical presentation, investigation, and outcome of the patients (ages 28, 50, 54, and 55 y; all male) were traced. More common symptoms of acute star fruit intoxication were nausea, vomiting, and abdominal and back pain, followed by low urine output and high serum creatinine over hours to days. Urinary analysis of all patients demonstrated oxalate crystals. Histopathologic examination of renal tissues of all 4 patients revealed acute tubular damage with calcium oxalate crystals, interstitial edema, and inflammatory cellular infiltration. The presence of calcium oxalate crystals was further confirmed with the brilliant birefringence seen under polarized light. Two patients needed intermittent hemodialysis over a week owing to oliguria and uremia. The other 2 patients did not require hemodialysis and had improvement of renal function with supportive treatment. All had high renal function on discharge but were back to normal within a month. This study highlights AKI as a serious complication of star fruit ingestion. The type and quantity of star fruit ingested and some patient factors may play a role in the pathogenesis of AKI. Public education about this serious uncommon complication is important.
The Impact of Air Pollution on Outpatient Visits of Children with Asthma in Xi’an, China
Authors: Zhang Yaozu , Wu Zonghui , Gou Kaihua , Wang Ruifang , Wang Jie
Published: January 2021

Introduction

The number of children with asthma has increased significantly in China. In recent years, there has been a steady increase in outpatient visits of children with asthma, attributed to poor air quality and environmental pollution reported regionally and at our institution. This study aimed to assess the association between air pollution and the number of outpatient visits of children with asthma in Xi’an, the largest city in northwest China.

Methods

We searched the database of the largest children’s hospital in Xi’an for related information from 2014 to 2018 and then acquired data on air pollution, including the daily average concentrations of fine particles (PM2.5), inhalable particles (PM10), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) of that same time period. Time-series generalized additive models were used to analyze the relationships.

Results

Our results revealed that air pollution was very serious in Xi’an, with elevated average concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, and NO2 from 2015 to 2018. The relative risk of outpatient visits due to asthma associated with PM2.5, PM10, and SO2 pollution rose significantly and reached 1.11 (1.02–1.21), 1.25 (1.01–1.55), and 1.71 (1.31–2.25), respectively, when there was a 10 ug·m-3 increase in concentration, during a lag of 21 d.

Conclusions

A high concentration of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) was the prominent feature of air pollution in Xi’an. Exposure to air pollutant (PM2.5, PM10, SO2) was positively associated with an increased risk of children’s outpatient visits for asthma in Xi’an.
The Picts Re-Imagined
Authors: Grigg Julianna
Published: January 2021

Pictish studies is undergoing significant revision and invigoration, with recent archaeological discoveries and new methodologies in archaeology, cultural geography and art history prompting a re-assessment of Pictish cultural and social development. We can now say more about the cultural and political lives of the Picts than ever before, and these new findings are enabling a fresh perspective on the wider development of Early Medieval polities across the Latin west. This short book provides an exciting and informed synthesis of our current understanding of Pictish history and material remains.
Shanghai Literary Imaginings
Authors: Scheen Lena
Published: January 2021

This book draws on a wide range of methods-including approaches from literary studies, cultural studies, and urban sociology-to analyse the transformation of Shanghai through rapid growth and widespread urban renewal. Lena Scheen explores the literary imaginings of the city, its past, present, and future, in order to understand the effects of that urban transformation on both the psychological state of Shanghai's citizens and their perception of the spaces they inhabit.
The Democratic Impact of Strengthening European Fundamental Rights in the Digital Age: The Example of Privacy Protection
Authors: Seubert Sandra , Becker Carlos
Published: January 2021

In times of digital pervasion of everyday life, the EU has strengthened a normative idea of European fundamental rights, especially by referring to a strong notion of privacy protection. A normative corridor is evolving with the “right to privacy” at its heart, a right that will be instrumental in shaping the European legal architecture’s future structure. In this Article we argue that the constitutional protection of privacy rights is not only of individual relevance but also of major democratic significance: it protects the integrity of the communication structures that underpin democratic self-determination. The debate on privacy protection, however, often lacks a democratic understanding of privacy and misses its public value. Following an interactionist understanding of privacy and a discourse-theoretical model of democracy, our argument puts forward a conceptual link between privacy and the idea of communicative freedom. From this perspective, the substantiation of a European fundamental right to privacy can be seen as a possible contribution to promoting European democracy in general.
Seasonal temperature and moisture changes in interior semi‐arid Spain from the last interglacial to the Late Holocene
Authors: Wei Dongyang , González-Sampériz Penélope , Gil-Romera Graciela , Harrison Sandy P. , Prentice I. Colin
Published: January 2021

The El Cañizar de Villarquemado pollen record covers the last part of MIS 6 to the Late Holocene. We use Tolerance-Weighted Averaging Partial Least Squares (TWA-PLS) to reconstruct mean temperature of the coldest month (MTCO) and growing degree days above 0°C (GDD0) and the ratio of annual precipitation to annual potential evapotranspiration (MI), accounting for the ecophysiological effect of changing CO2 on water-use efficiency. Rapid summer warming occurred during the Zeifen-Kattegat Oscillation at the transition to MIS 5. Summers were cold during MIS 4 and MIS 2, but some intervals of MIS 3 had summers as warm as the warmest phases of MIS 5 or the Holocene. Winter temperatures declined from MIS 4 to MIS 2. Changes in temperature seasonality within MIS 5 and MIS 1 are consistent with insolation seasonality changes. Conditions became progressively more humid during MIS 5, and MIS 4 was also humid, although MIS 3 was more arid. Changes in MI and GDD0 are anti-correlated, with increased MI during summer warming intervals. Comparison with other records shows glacial-interglacial changes were not unform across the circum-Mediterranean region, but available quantitative reconstructions are insufficient to determine if east-west differences reflect the circulation-driven precipitation dipole seen in recent decades.
LAC-UFF STATUS REPORT: CURRENT PROTOCOLS AND RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
Authors: Oliveira Fabiana , Macario Kita , Carvalho Carla , Moreira Vinicius , Alves Eduardo Q , Chanca Ingrid , Diaz Maikel , Jou Renata , Hammerschlag Izabela , Netto Bruna M , Oliveira Maria Isabela , Assumpção Ayrton , Fernandes Dayanne
Published: January 2021

The Radiocarbon Laboratory of the Fluminense Federal University was installed in 2009, and its NEC Single Stage Accelerator Mass Spectrometry system has been operational since 2012. As the first14C-AMS facility in Latin America, the LAC-UFF became a reference center for radiocarbon (14C) dating in Brazil. Over the years we have implemented pretreatment protocols for several kinds of materials, such as cellulose, soil, bone, and biofuels. In the present paper we describe our current protocols for the preparation of these types of samples. Moreover, after 10 years of operation, with the aim of expanding the range of materials we are able to analyze, we report the results of several tests to improve accuracy, precision and background levels. For example, here we discuss how isotopic fractionation during the graphitization and measurement steps has been controlled. Concerning results interpretation, our research group has been using OxCal chronological models to analyze different contexts such as stromatolite growth, tree rings, soil deposition and marine reservoir effect (MRE) determination.
Evaluation of the impact of patient input in health technology assessments at NICE
Authors: Livingstone Heidi , Verdiel Vassilia , Crosbie Helen , Upadhyaya Sheela , Harris Kevin , Thomas Lizzie
Published: January 2021

Objective

Accounts of patient experiences are increasingly used in health technology assessment (HTA) processes. However, we know little about their impact on the decision-making process. This study aims to assess the level and the type of impact of patient input to highly specialised technologies (HSTs) and interventional procedures (IPs) guidance at the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).

Methods

A questionnaire was developed to capture quantitative and qualitative data on the amount and type of impact of patient input into NICE HTAs. It was completed by committee members of the guidance-producing programs after a discussion of the considered topics. The data were analyzed by topic and overall, for each program, and compared across programs.

Results

Patient input was assessed on ten pieces of HST guidance published between January 2015 and November 2019, and on twenty-six pieces of IP guidance scoped between February 2016 and October 2018. A total of 96 responses were collected for HST and 440 for IP. The level of impact of patient input was higher for HST than for IP. For HST, no respondents stated that it had no impact, whereas in IP, 35 percent of respondents did. The most common types of impact found for HST and IP were that it helped interpret the other evidence and that it provided new evidence.

Conclusions

The impact of patient input is not necessarily explicit in changing recommendations, but it provides context, reassurance, and new information to the committee for the decision-making process in HTAs.
Teaching Data Science in Political Science: Integrating Methods with Substantive Curriculum
Authors: Williams Unislawa , Brown Robert , Davis Marilyn , Pavri Tinaz , Shafiei Fatemeh
Published: January 2021

The importance of data science in society today is undeniable, and now is the time to prepare data science talent (National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine 2018). Data science demands collaboration, but collaboration within political science departments has been weak in teaching data science. Bridging substantive and methods courses can critically aid in teaching data science because it facilitates this collaboration. Our innovation is to integrate data science into both substantive and methods courses through a dedicated data science course and modules on data science topics taught in substantive courses. This approach allows not only for more opportunities for teaching and practice of data science methods but also helps students to understand how social, economic, and political biases and incentives can affect their data.
Autobiographical Memory Fluency Reductions in Cognitively Unimpaired Middle-Aged and Older Adults at Increased Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia
Authors: Grilli Matthew D. , Wank Aubrey A. , Huentelman Matthew J. , Ryan Lee
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Recent research has revealed that cognitively unimpaired older adults who are at higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia often exhibit subtle cognitive alterations in their neuropsychological profiles. Emerging evidence suggests that autobiographical memory, which is memory for personal events and knowledge, may be sensitive to early AD-related cognitive alterations. In the present study, we investigated whether the rapid generation of autobiographical memory category exemplars, a retrieval process that taxes the neural network that is vulnerable to early AD, is compromised in cognitively unimpaired middle-aged and older carriers of the e4 allele of the apolipoprotein E gene (APOE4), which increases risk for AD dementia.

Methods:

In addition to standard neuropsychological tests, we administered a fluency task that requires generating exemplars for two types of autobiographical memory, namely episodic memories and personal semantics, to a group of cognitively unimpaired middle-aged and older adults (n = 45) enriched with APOE4 carriers (n = 20).

Results:

While no APOE4 deficits were found on standard neuropsychological tests, episodic and personal semantic exemplar generation was reduced in the APOE4 group.

Discussion:

Autobiographical memory aberrations associated with a higher risk for AD are evident in fluency and affect both episodic memory and personal semantics.
Dissecting quasars with the J-PAS narrow-band photometric survey
Authors: Bonoli Silvia , Calderone Giorgio , Abramo Raul , Alcaniz Jailson , Benitez Narciso , Carneiro Saulo , Cenarro Javier , Cristóbal-Hornillos David , Dupke Renato , Ederoclite Alessandro , San Juan Carlos López , Marín-Franch Antonio , Mendes de Oliviera Claudia , Moles Mariano , Placco Vinicius , Sodré Laerte , Taylor Keith , Varela Jesús , Vázquez Ramió Héctor ,   the J-PAS collaboration
Published: January 2021

The J-PAS survey will soon start observing thousands of square degrees of the Northern Sky with its unique set of 56 narrow band filters covering the entire optical wavelength range, providing, effectively, a low resolution spectra for every object detected. Active galaxies and quasars, thanks to their strong emission lines, can be easily identified and characterized with J-PAS data. A variety of studies can be performed, from IFU-like analysis of local AGN, to clustering of high-z quasars. We also expect to be able to extract intrinsic physical quasar properties from the J-PAS pseudo-spectra, including continuum slope and emission line luminosities. Here we show the first attempts of using the QSFit software package to derive the properties for 22 quasars at 0.8 < z < 2 observed by the miniJPAS survey, the first deg2 of J-PAS data obtained with an interim camera. Results are compared with the ones obtained by applying the same software to SDSS quasar spectra.
The quasar main sequence and its potential for cosmology
Authors: Marziani Paola , Dultzin Deborah , del Olmo Ascensión , D’Onofrio Mauro , de Diego José A. , Stirpe Giovanna M. , Bon Edi , Bon Natasa , Czerny Bożena , Perea Jaime , Panda Swayamtrupta , Loli Martinez-Aldama Mary , Negrete C. A.
Published: January 2021

The main sequence offers a method for the systematization of quasar spectral properties. Extreme FeII emitters (or extreme Population A, xA) are believed to be sources accreting matter at very high rates. They are easily identifiable along the quasar main sequence, in large spectroscopic surveys over a broad redshift range. The very high accretion rate makes it possible that massive black holes hosted in xA quasars radiate at a stable, extreme luminosity-to-mass ratio. After reviewing the basic interpretation of the main sequence, we report on the possibility of identifying virial broadening estimators from low-ionization line widths, and provide evidence of the conceptual validity of redshift-independent luminosities based on virial broadening for a known luminosity-to-mass ratio.
Feii emission in NLS1s – originating from denser regions with higher abundances?
Authors: Panda Swayamtrupta , Marziani Paola , Czerny Bożena
Published: January 2021

The interpretation of the main sequence of quasars has become a frontier subject in the last years. This considers the effect of a highly flattened, axially symmetric geometry for the broad line region (BLR) on the parameters related to the distribution of quasars along their main sequence. We utilize the photoionization code CLOUDY to model the BLR, assuming ‘un-constant’ virial factor with a strong dependence on the viewing angle. We show the preliminary results of the analysis to highlight the co-dependence of the Eigenvector 1 parameter, RFeii on the broad Hβ FWHM (i.e. the line dispersion) and the inclination angle (θ), assuming fixed values for the Eddington ratio (Lbo1/LEdd), black hole mass (MBH) and spectral energy distribution (SED) shape. We consider four cases with changing cloud density (nH) and composition. Understanding the emitting region is crucial as this knowledge can be extended to the use of quasars as distance indicators for Cosmology.‡
High-resolution radio astronomy: An outlook for Africa
Authors: Gurvits Leonid I. , Beswick Robert , Hoare Melvin , Njeri Ann , Blanchard Jay , Sharpe Carla , Tiplady Adrian , de Witt Aletha
Published: January 2021

Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) offers unrivalled resolution in studies of celestial radio sources. The subjects of interest of the current IAU Symposium, the Active Galactic Nuclei (AGN) of all types, constitute the major observing sample of modern VLBI networks. At present, the largest in the world in terms of the number of telescopes and geographical coverage is the European VLBI Network (EVN), which operates under the “open sky” policy via peer-reviewed observing proposals. Recent EVN observations cover a broad range of science themes from high-sensitivity monitoring of structural changes in inner AGN areas to observations of tidal eruptions in AGN cores and investigation of redshift-dependent properties of parsec-scale radio structures of AGN. All the topics above should be considered as potentially rewarding scientific activities of the prospective African VLBI Network (AVN), a natural “scientific ally” of EVN. This contribution briefly describe the status and near-term strategy for the AVN development as a southern extension of the EVN-AVN alliance and as an eventual bridge to the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) with its mid-frequency core in South Africa.
Galaxy evolution studies in clusters: the case of Cl0024 + 1652 cluster galaxies at z ∼ 0.4
Authors: Beyoro-Amado Zeleke , Pović Mirjana , Sánchez-Portal Miguel , Belay Tessema Solomon , Getachew-Woreta Tilahun ,   the GLACE team
Published: January 2021

Studying the transformation of cluster galaxies contributes a lot to have a clear picture of evolution of the universe. Towards that we are studying different properties (morphology, star formation, AGN contribution and metallicity) of galaxies in clusters up to z ∼ 1.0 taking three different clusters: ZwCl0024 + 1652 at z ∼ 0.4, RXJ1257 + 4738 at z ∼ 0.9 and Virgo at z ∼ 0.0038. For ZwCl0024 + 1652 and RXJ1257 + 4738 clusters we used tunable filters data from GLACE survey taken with GTC 10.4 m telescope and other public data, while for Virgo we used public data. We did the morphological classification of 180 galaxies in ZwCl0024 + 1652 using galSVM, where 54 % and 46 % of galaxies were classified as early-type (ET) and late-type (LT) respectively. We did a comparison between the three clusters within the clustercentric distance of 1 Mpc and found that ET proportion (decreasing with redshift) dominates over the LT (increasing with redshift) throughout. We finalized the data reduction for ZwCl0024 + 1652 cluster and identified 46 [OIII] and 73 Hβ emission lines. For this cluster we have classified 22 emission line galaxies (ELGs) using BPT-NII diagnostic diagram resulting with 14 composite, 1 AGN and 7 star forming (SF) galaxies. We are using these results, together with the public data, for further analysis of the variations of properties in relation to redshift within z < 1.0.
The role of AGN activity in the building up of the BCG at z ∼ 1.6
Authors: Bongiorno Angela , Travascio Andrea
Published: January 2021

XDCPJ0044.0-2033 is one of the most massive galaxy cluster atz∼1.6, for which a wealth of multi-wavelength photometric and spectroscopic data have been collected during the last years. I have reported on the properties of the galaxy members in the very central region (∼ 70kpc× 70kpc) of the cluster, derived through deep HST photometry, SINFONI and KMOS IFU spectroscopy, together with Chandra X-ray, ALMA and JVLA radio data.

In the core of the cluster, we have identified two groups of galaxies (Complex A and Complex B), seven of them confirmed to be cluster members, with signatures of ongoing merging. These galaxies show perturbed morphologies and, three of them show signs of AGN activity. In particular, two of them, located at the center of each complex, have been found to host luminous, obscured and highly accreting AGN (λ = 0.4−0.6) exhibiting broad Hα line. Moreover, a third optically obscured type-2 AGN, has been discovered through BPT diagram in Complex A. The AGN at the center of Complex B is detected in X-ray while the other two, and their companions, are spatially related to radio emission. The three AGN provide one of the closest AGN triple at z > 1 revealed so far with a minimum (maximum) projected distance of 10 kpc (40 kpc). The discovery of multiple AGN activity in a highly star-forming region associated to the crowded core of a galaxy cluster atz∼ 1.6, suggests that these processes have a key role in shaping the nascent Brightest Cluster Galaxy, observed at the center of local clusters. According to our data, all galaxies in the core of XDCPJ0044.0-2033 could form a BCG ofM*∼ 1012Mȯhosting a BH of 2 × 108−109Mȯ, in a time scale of the order of 2.5 Gyrs.
Comparison of Familial, Polygenic and Biochemical Predictors of Mortality
Authors: Whitfield John B. , Colodro-Conde Lucía , Timmers Paul R. H. J. , Joshi Peter K. , Montgomery Grant W. , Martin Nicholas G.
Published: January 2021

Mortality risk is known to be associated with many physiological or biochemical risk factors, and polygenic risk scores (PRSs) may offer an additional or alternative approach to risk stratification. We have compared the predictive value of common biochemical tests, PRSs and information on parental survival in a cohort of twins and their families. Common biochemical test results were available for up to 13,365 apparently healthy men and women, aged 17−93 years (mean 49.0, standard deviation [SD] 13.7) at blood collection. PRSs for longevity were available for 14,169 study participants and reported parental survival for 25,784 participants. A search for information on date and cause of death was conducted through the Australian National Death Index, with median follow-up of 11.3 years. Cox regression was used to evaluate associations with mortality from all causes, cancers, cardiovascular diseases and other causes. Linear relationships with all-cause mortality were strongest for C-reactive protein, gamma-glutamyl transferase, glucose and alkaline phosphatase, with hazard ratios (HRs) of 1.16 (95% CI [1.07, 1.24]), 1.15 (95% CI 1.04–1.21), 1.13 (95% CI [1.08, 1.19]) and 1.11 (95% CI [1.05, 1.88]) per SD difference, respectively. Significant nonlinear effects were found for urea, uric acid and butyrylcholinesterase. Lipid risk factors were not statistically significant for mortality in our cohort. Family history and PRS showed weaker but significant associations with survival, with HR in the range 1.05 to 1.09 per SD difference. In conclusion, biochemical tests currently predict long-term mortality more strongly than genetic scores based on genotyping or on reported parental survival.
The Majoritarian Threat to Liberal Democracy
Authors: Grossman Guy , Kronick Dorothy , Levendusky Matthew , Meredith Marc
Published: January 2021

Incumbents often seek to wield power in ways that are formally legal but informally proscribed. Why do voters endorse these power grabs? Prior literature focuses on polarization. We propose instead that many voters are majoritarian, in that they view popularly elected leaders’ actions as inherently democratic – even when those actions undermine liberal democracy. We find support for this claim in two original survey experiments, arguing that majoritarians’ desire to give wide latitude to elected officials is an important but understudied threat to liberal democracy in the United States.
Leaf Wax Hydrogen Isotopes as a Hydroclimate Proxy in the Tropical Pacific
Authors: Ladd S. N. , Maloney A. E. , Nelson D. B. , Prebble M. , Camperio G. , Sear D. A. , Hassall J. D. , Langdon P. G. , Sachs J. P. , Dubois N.
Published: January 2021

Hydrogen isotope ratios of sedimentary leaf waxes (δ2HWax values) are increasingly used to reconstruct past hydroclimate. Here, we add δ2HWax values from 19 lakes and four swamps on 15 tropical Pacific islands to an updated global compilation of published data from surface sediments and soils. Globally, there is a strong positive linear correlation between δ2H values of mean annual precipitation (δ2HP values) and the leaf waxes n‐C29‐alkane (R2 = 0.74, n = 665) and n‐C28‐acid (R2 = 0.74, n = 242). Tropical Pacific δ2HWax values fall within the predicted range of values based on the global calibration, and the largest residuals from the global regression line are no greater than those observed elsewhere, despite large uncertainties in δ2HP values at some Pacific sites. However, tropical Pacific δ2HWax values in isolation are not correlated with estimated δ2HP values from isoscapes or from isotope‐enabled general circulation models. Palynological analyses from these same Pacific sediment samples suggest no systematic relationship between any particular type of pollen distribution and deviations from the global calibration line. Rather, the poor correlations observed in the tropical Pacific are likely a function of the small range of δ2HP values relative to the typical residuals around the global calibration line. Our results suggest that δ2HWax values are currently most suitable for use in detecting large changes in precipitation in the tropical Pacific and elsewhere, but that ample room for improving this threshold exits in both improved understanding of δ2H variability in plants, as well as in precipitation.
Ultrafast transient sub-bandgap absorption of monolayer MoS2
Authors: Das Susobhan , Wang Yadong , Dai Yunyun , Li Shisheng , Sun Zhipei
Published: January 2021

The light–matter interaction in materials is of remarkable interest for various photonic and optoelectronic applications, which is intrinsically determined by the bandgap of the materials involved. To extend the applications beyond the bandgap limit, it is of great significance to study the light–matter interaction below the material bandgap. Here, we report the ultrafast transient absorption of monolayer molybdenum disulfide in its sub-bandgap region from ~0.86 µm to 1.4 µm. Even though this spectral range is below the bandgap, we observe a significant absorbance enhancement up to ~4.2% in the monolayer molybdenum disulfide (comparable to its absorption within the bandgap region) due to pump-induced absorption by the excited carrier states. The different rise times of the transient absorption at different wavelengths indicate the various contributions of the different carrier states (i.e., real carrier states in the short-wavelength region of ~<1 µm, and exciton states in the long wavelength region of ~>1 µm). Our results elucidate the fundamental understanding regarding the optical properties, excited carrier states, and carrier dynamics in the technologically important near-infrared region, which potentially leads to various photonic and optoelectronic applications (e.g., excited-state-based photodetectors and modulators) of two-dimensional materials and their heterostructures beyond their intrinsic bandgap limitations.
Genetically predicted physical activity levels are associated with lower colorectal cancer risk: a Mendelian randomisation study
Authors: Zhang Xiaomeng , Theodoratou Evropi , Li Xue , Farrington Susan M. , Law Philip J. , Broderick Peter , Walker Marion , Klimentidis Yann C. , Rees Jessica M. B. , Houlston Richard S. , Tomlinson Ian P. M. , Burgess Stephen , Campbell Harry , Dunlop Malcolm G. , Timofeeva Maria
Published: January 2021

Background

We conducted a Mendelian randomisation (MR) study to investigate whether physical activity (PA) causes a reduction of colorectal cancer risk and to understand the contributions of effects mediated through changes in body fat.

Methods

Common genetic variants associated with self-reported moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA), acceleration vector magnitude PA (AMPA) and sedentary time were used as instrumental variables. To control for confounding effects of obesity, we included instrumental variables for body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, waist circumference and arm, trunk and leg fat ratios. We analysed the effect of these instrumental variables in a colorectal cancer genome-wide association study comprising 31,197 cases and 61,770 controls of European ancestry by applying two-sample and multivariable MR study designs.

Results

We found decreased colorectal cancer risk for genetically represented measures of MVPA and AMPA that were additional to effects mediated through genetic measures of obesity. Odds ratio and 95% confidence interval (CI) per standard deviation increase in MVPA and AMPA was 0.56 (0.31, 1.01) and 0.60 (0.41, 0.88), respectively. No association has been found between sedentary time and colorectal cancer risk. The proportion of effect mediated through BMI was 2% (95% CI: 0, 14) and 32% (95% CI: 12, 46) for MVPA and AMPA, respectively.

Conclusion

These findings provide strong evidence to reinforce public health measures on preventing colorectal cancer that promote PA at a population level regardless of body fatness.
The noncanonical role of the protease cathepsin D as a cofilin phosphatase
Authors: Liu Yi-Jun , Zhang Ting , Chen Sicong , Cheng Daxiao , Wu Cunjin , Wang Xingyue , Duan Duo , Zhu Liya , Lou Huifang , Gong Zhefeng , Wang Xiao-Dong , Ho Margaret S. , Duan Shumin
Published: January 2021

Cathepsin D (cathD) is traditionally regarded as a lysosomal protease that degrades substrates in acidic compartments. Here we report cathD plays an unconventional role as a cofilin phosphatase orchestrating actin remodeling. In neutral pH environments, the cathD precursor directly dephosphorylates and activates the actin-severing protein cofilin independent of its proteolytic activity, whereas mature cathD degrades cofilin in acidic pH conditions. During development, cathD complements the canonical cofilin phosphatase slingshot and regulates the morphogenesis of actin-based structures. Moreover, suppression of cathD phosphatase activity leads to defective actin organization and cytokinesis failure. Our findings identify cathD as a dual-function molecule, whose functional switch is regulated by environmental pH and its maturation state, and reveal a novel regulatory role of cathD in actin-based cellular processes.