bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hole-driven dynamics of a three-dimensional gravitational liquid curtain
Authors: Acquaviva Maria Rosaria , Della Pia Alessandro , Chiatto Matteo , de Luca Luigi
Published: August 2023

It is known that the disintegration of vertical liquid curtains (sheets) is affected crucially by the amplification of free edge holes forming inside the curtain. This paper aims to investigate the influence of the hole expansion dynamics, driven by the so-called rim retraction, on the breakup of a liquid curtain, in both supercritical (Weber number

$We > 1$

) and subcritical (

$We < 1$

) conditions. The analysis is based on three-dimensional direct numerical simulations. For a selected supercritical configuration, the steady flow topology is first analysed. The investigation reveals the classic triangular shape regime of the steady curtain, due to the surface-tension-induced borders retraction towards its centre plane. The unsteady dynamics is then investigated as the curtain response to a hole perturbation introduced artificially in the steady flow configuration. The hole evolution determines a rim retraction phenomenon inside the curtain, which is influenced by both capillary and gravity forces. In supercritical conditions, the hole does not influence the curtain flow dynamics in the long-time limit. By reducing the Weber number slightly under the critical threshold (

$We=1$

), the initial amplification rate of the hole area increases, due to the stronger retraction effect of surface tension acting on the hole rims. The free hole expansion in fully subcritical conditions (

$We < 1$

) is investigated finally by simulating an edge-free curtain flow. As

$We$

decreases progressively, the hole expands while it is convected downstream by gravity acceleration. In the range

$0.4< We<1$

, the subcritical curtain returns to the intact unperturbed configuration after the hole expulsion at the downstream outflow. For

$We<0.4$

, the surface tension force becomes strong enough to reverse the gravitational motion of the hole top point, which retracts upstream towards the sheet inlet section while expanding along the lateral directions. This last phenomenon causes finally the breakup of the curtain, which results in a columnar regime strictly resembling similar experimental findings of the literature.
Concurrent wasting and stunting among marginalised children in Sana’a city, Yemen: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Al-Taj Mansour Abdu , Al Serouri Abdulwahed , Al-Muradi Anwar Mahmoud , Al-Dharhani EzzAldeen , Al-faeq Nada Nabil , Al-amodi Fatima Mohammed , Abdulwahab Muaadh Mohammed , Nawfal Ali Mujahed , Alshemerry Manal Haza'a , Mujahed Monia Abdullah
Published: August 2023

Concurrent wasting and stunting (WaSt) is a serious form of malnutrition among young children, particularly vulnerable groups affected by the conflict. Understanding the prevalence and risk factors of WaSt among vulnerable children is important to develop effective intervention measures to reduce the burden of WaSt. The present study aimed to identify the prevalence of and risk factors for WaSt among marginalised children aged 6–59 months in Sana’a city, Yemen. A community-based cross-sectional design was conducted on a total sample size of 450 marginalised children aged 6–59 months who lived at home with their mothers. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed and the prevalence of WaSt was found to be 10⋅7 %. Children aged 24–59 months were protected from WaSt (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 0⋅40, 95 % confidence interval (CI) 0⋅21, 0⋅75). A higher prevalence of WaSt was associated with male sex (AOR 2⋅31, 95 % CI 1⋅13, 4⋅71), no history of being breastfed (AOR 3⋅57, 95 % CI 1⋅23, 10⋅39), acute diarrhoea (AOR 2⋅12, 95 % CI 1⋅12, 4⋅02) and family income sources of assistance from others (AOR 2⋅74, 95 % CI 1⋅08, 6⋅93) or salary work (AOR 2⋅22, 95 % CI 1⋅10, 4⋅47). Continued breast- and bottle-feeding were not associated with WaSt in children aged 6–23 months. Mothers’ age, education and work status, family size and drinking water source were not associated with WaSt. Overall, we found that the prevalence of WaSt among marginalised children remained high. Interventions to improve household income, hygienic conditions and child feeding practices are necessary to promote child growth.
The genetics of neuroticism: Insights from the Maudsley rat model and human studies
Authors: Blizard David A. , Adams Nelson , Boomsma Dorret I.
Published: August 2023

We examine some of the genetic features of neuroticism (N) taking as an animal model the Maudsley Reactive (MR) and Maudsley Nonreactive (MNR) rat strains which were selectively bred, respectively, for high and low open-field defecation (OFD) starting in the late 1950s. To draw analogies with human genetic studies, we explore the genetic correlation of N with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We review progress with the rat model and developments in the field of human complex trait genetics, including genetic association studies that relate to current understanding of the genetics of N. The widespread differences in the tone of the peripheral sympathetic nervous system that have been found between the Maudsley strains, particularly those observed in the colon, may underly the differences in OFD (MNR, higher sympathetic tone and zero defecation). In humans, a large genome-wide association study (GWAS) reported six genes contributing to IBS, four of which were implicated in mood and anxiety disorders or were expressed in the brain, with three of the four also expressed in the nerve fibers and ganglia of the gut. Heritability of N is estimated at around 50% in twin and family studies, and GWASs identified hundreds of loci, enabling estimation of genome-wide correlations (rg) with other traits. Significantly, the estimate for rg between risk of IBS, anxiety, N, and depression was >0.5 and suggested genetic pleiotropy without evidence for causal mechanisms. Findings on the adrenergic pharmacology of the colon, coupled with new understanding of the role of the locus ceruleus in modifying afferent information from this organ, generate hypotheses that challenge traditional cause/effect notions about the relationship of the central nervous system to peripheral events in response to stress, suggest specific targets for gene action in the Maudsley model and emphasize the value of reciprocal evaluation of genetic architecture underlying N in rodents and humans.
Art–science collaborations: Generators of new ideas and serendipitous events
Authors: Segal Liat , Meroz Yasmine
Published: August 2023

An increasing number of collaborative projects between artists and scientists raises the question regarding their value, particularly when considering the redirection of resources. Here we provide a personal account of our collaborative efforts, as an artist and a scientist. We propose that one of the most significant outcomes is something that cannot be planned for in advance: serendipitous events. Such events lead to fresh perspectives and imaginative ideas, the fairy dust underlying many great works of art and science. The unexpected nature of these desired outcomes requires from us a leap of faith on the one hand, and a deep trust in our ‘partner in crime’ on the other.
Laimydorus zehsaziani n. sp., a new member of the genus from northwest of Iran, with additional data on Labronema vulvapapillatum (Meyl, 1954) Loof & Grootaert, 1981 (Dorylaimida: Dorylaimidae)
Authors: Zahedi Asl E. , Niknam G. , Vazifeh N.
Published: August 2023

A new species belonging to the genus Laimydorus, and a known species of the genus Labronema, collected from the rhizosphere of grassland plants in West Azarbaijan province, Iran, are presented. The new species is characterized by its body length (1.56–1.81 mm in females and 1.39–1.57 mm in males), lip region offset by weak constriction and wider than adjacent body (11–14 μm), odontostyle 17–20 μm long, neck length 312–434 μm, vulva longitudinal (V = 42.2–46.5), uterus well-developed and with Z-differentiations, tail long (219–237 μm, c = 6.9–8.3, c´ = 8.2–10) in females, short and convex-conoid with blunt terminus (19–22 μm, c = 68–72.5, c´= 0.77–0.84) in males, spicules 40–45 μm long, and 18–20 contiguous ventromedian supplements with hiatus. Molecular analyses, using Bayesian inference based on D2-D3 expansion segments of the 28S rRNA (LSU), placed the new species in a clade comprising representatives of the genera Nevadanema, Dorylaimus, Labronema, Calcaridorylaimus, Mesodorylaimus, and Prodorylaimus, which all belong to Dorylaimidae. In addition, new data (molecular, morphometrics, images, and geographic distribution) are presented for the Iranian population of Labronema vulvapapillatum.
Biogeographic patterns of distribution of the molluscZelentia ninel(Nudibranchia, Trinchesiidae)
Authors: Broms Fredrik , Bakken Torkild , Martynov Alexander , Korshunova Tatiana
Published: August 2023

In the present contribution we report, for the first time, records of the nudibranchZelentia ninelfrom Norway. The species is previously known only from the Barents Sea coast in northern Russia where it was described for the first time in 2017. Records ofZ. ninelfrom six different localities in northern Norway from 2019–2023 are presented and discussed. The identity of the specimens was determined by investigation of external and internal morphology as well as molecular analysis of preserved specimens. Photographs of live specimens and radulae of preserved specimens are presented, and species delimitation is confirmed by molecular phylogenetic analysis. In order to assess the biogeographic distribution ofZ. ninelbased on all available information, recent unanticipated genetic data supporting a putative occurrence ofZ. ninelat the Aleutian Islands, Alaska is also discussed where we provide arguments in support of occasional anthropogenic transportation outside its natural range. The present records significantly expand the known natural range of distribution forZ. nineland demonstrate that the species is not restricted to the Russian Barents Sea coast but that the range encompasses also at least northern Norway. These data can provide important insights to the understanding of natural ranges of marine invertebrates across biogeographical regions affected by rapid ongoing climatic change.
The impact of COVID on end-of-life planning views, social connection, and quality of life for low-income, older adults: A qualitative study
Authors: Kimpel Christine Cleary , Lauderdale Jana , Schlundt David , Dietrich Mary S. , Ratcliff Amy C. , Maxwell Cathy A.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Low-income, older adults are less likely than those with high income to participate in advance care planning (ACP); however, the pandemic may have influenced their views. The aim of this report was to explore the perceptions of COVID-19 related to everyday life and ACP.

Methods

We embedded ACP behavior inequities within the Social Ecological Model to highlight the importance of considering social inequities within an environmental context. Using a qualitative descriptive design, twenty individual interviews were conducted. Thematic analysis consisted of multiple rounds of independent and iterative coding by 2 coders that resulted in a hierarchically organized coding system. Final themes emerged through the inductive consideration of the transcript data and the deductive contribution of our theoretical framework.

Results

Three major themes emerged: social connection, quality of life, and end-of-life planning views. COVID-19 had not changed ACP views, i.e., those with existing ACP maintained it and those without ACP still avoided planning.

Significance of results

Low-income, older adults experienced lower social connection and quality of life during COVID-19 but did not express changes to ACP views. Our findings of the loss of regular social practices and mental health struggles may have competed with participants’ perception that this crisis had little, if any, effect on ACP. While clinicians should monitor low-income, older adults for ACP barriers during COVID-19, policymakers should prioritize ACP at the systems level. We plan to use participatory research methods to explore for the minimal ACP impact, focusing on barriers to ACP opportunities.
Perspectives of nursing home executives on collaboration with GPs and specialist palliative care teams
Authors: Müller Evelyn , Vogel Lena , Nury Edris , Seibel Katharina , Becker Gerhild
Published: August 2023

Abstract: Background: Nursing home (NH) staff, general practitioners (GPs) and specialist outpatient palliative care teams are expected to cooperate to ensure adequate palliative care for NH residents in Germany. Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the perspective of NH executives concerning collaboration with GPs and specialist outpatient palliative care teams. Methods: We conducted semi-structured telephone interviews with executives of NHs in the federal state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany. Interviews were analysed by means of structured content analyses. Results: Executives of 20 NHs participated in the study, eight NHs cooperate with specialist outpatient palliative care teams. Content analysis resulted in two main categories: ’general palliative care by primary carers’ and ’collaboration with SAPV in NHs’, each with three first-order subcategories. The main barriers to adequate palliative care were reported to be lack of palliative care knowledge in GPs and NH staff, refusal of some GPs to cooperate with specialist outpatient palliative care teams and staff shortage in NHs. Specialist palliative care involvement was described to result in improved palliative care. Conclusion: Solutions seem obvious, e.g., further education in palliative care or round tables to discuss collaboration. However, studies show that even comprehensive educational and management interventions to implement palliative care do not always result in long-term effects and further research is needed.
Energy Surplus and an Atmosphere‐Land‐Surface “Tug of War” Control Future Evapotranspiration
Authors: Xu Donghui , Ivanov Valeriy Y. , Agee Elizabeth , Wang Jingfeng
Published: August 2023

The 21st century evapotranspiration (ET) trends over the continental U.S. are assessed using innovative, energy‐based principles. Annual ET is projected to increase with high confidence at the rate of 20 mm for every 1℃ of rise in near‐surface air temperature, or 0.45 or 0.98 mm/year/year, depending on the emission scenario. The ET trajectory is dominated (58%) by the increase of land‐surface net radiative energy. An enhancement of the fraction of energy taken up by ET becomes a more important controller (53%) in late 21st century, under the high emission scenario. This increase is explained by the “tug of war” between atmospheric vapor demand and land‐surface ability to supply water. An assessment of future water availability (precipitation minus ET) shows no significant changes at the continental scale. This outcome nevertheless hides strong spatial variability, emphasizing the role of ET in shaping the distribution of water availability among human populations.
Evidence and Controls of the Acceleration of the Hydrological Cycle Over Land
Authors: Wang Y. , Meili N. , Fatichi S.
Published: August 2023

Investigating modifications in the hydrological cycle is essential to understand the impacts of climate change on ecosystems. This study assesses the change in the velocity of the water cycle over land at the global scale, whereas previous studies have mostly focused on changes in the atmospheric water cycle. The hydrological acceleration is quantified by a decrease in average residence time (RT) of water in the first meter of soil. The soil water RT is shown to be sensitive to the soil texture and seasonality of hydroclimatic variables. Despite substantial local variability, most of the RTs are in the range of 50–300 days. The global mean soil water RT declined at a rate of −2.30 and −0.36 days decade−1 (−1.6 to 1.0 days decade−1 the range of nine models) from 2001 to 2020 as measured by reanalysis and CMIP6 simulations for the historical scenario, respectively, which corresponds to −6.8 and −1.1 days °C−1 when expressed per degree of global warming over land. This acceleration is projected to continue at a rate of −1.35 days decade−1 (−3.4 to 0.0 days decade−1 the range of nine models) or −2.2 days °C−1 during the period 2015–2100 under the most extreme emission scenario: SSP 585. Changes in precipitation dominantly drive the acceleration of the terrestrial water cycle compared to changes in evapotranspiration. Rising temperatures and increasing carbon dioxide have opposite effects on the speed of the terrestrial water cycle with compensatory roles keeping RT relatively unchanged in the absence of PR trends.
The Effect of Tropical Pacific Air‐Sea Coupling on the Rainfall Response to Quadrupled CO2 Forcing
Authors: Hsu Tien‐Yiao , Magnusdottir Gudrun , Primeau Francois
Published: August 2023

We perform quadrupled CO2 climate simulations with the Community Earth System Model version 1 (CESM1) to study how air‐sea coupling affects the response of tropical rainfall under global warming. We use a hierarchy of ocean models to separate the effects of seasonal mixed‐layer entrainment, wind‐driven Ekman flows directed perpendicular to the wind, and the near‐equator frictional flows directed in the same direction as the wind. We show that the Pacific Ocean's enhanced equatorial warming pattern (EEW) and equatorward ITCZ contraction observed in previous climate simulations emerge when the ocean model includes wind‐driven Ekman and frictional flows. Furthermore, the near‐equator frictional flow contributes more than half of the heat convergence in the equatorial Pacific Ocean. Finally, we show that although Ekman flow and near‐equator frictional flow can both result in EEW, their coupled interactions with the Hadley circulation lead to opposite feedbacks on EEW's strength.
The Flow of the Yangtze River Inverted From a Continuous Global Navigation Satellite System Station
Authors: Zou Rong , Chen Chao , Cao Jiaming , Wang Qi
Published: August 2023

The runoff change in a large river is significant for hydrological event monitoring, such as floods and droughts. In this paper, we attempt to invert the river flow change based on the surface displacements observed by the continuous global navigation satellite system (GNSS) stations in the Wuhan section of the Yangtze River (WYR). We establish a two‐dimensional model accounting for deformation from a line load in an elastic half‐space to estimate the annual water load change from the GNSS data. The results show that the inverted line load from the annual maximum displacement change observed by the GNSS is , which is in good agreement with the river load from the hydrological station. This paper demonstrates a low‐cost and practical method to river flow research in local areas, which is also a creative application for the GNSS.
Scaling Microseismic Cloud Shape During Hydraulic Stimulation Using In Situ Stress and Permeability
Authors: Mukuhira Y. , Yang M. , Ishibashi T. , Okamoto K. , Moriya H. , Kumano Y. , Asanuma H. , Shapiro S. A. , Rubinstein J. L. , Ito T. , Yan K. , Zuo Y.
Published: August 2023

Forecasting microseismic cloud shape as a proxy of stimulated rock volume may improve the design of an energy extraction system. The microseismic cloud created during hydraulic stimulation of geothermal reservoirs is known empirically to extend in the general direction of the maximum principal stress. However, this empirical relationship is often inconsistent with reported results, and the cloud growth process remains poorly understood. This study investigates microseismic cloud growth using data obtained from a hydraulic stimulation project in Basel, Switzerland, and explores its correlation with measured in situ stress. We applied principal component analysis to a time series of microseismicity for macroscopic characterization of microseismic cloud growth in two‐ and three‐dimensional space. The microseismic cloud, in addition to extending in the general direction of maximum principal stress, expanded in the direction of intermediate principal stress. The orientation of the least microseismic cloud growth was stable and almost identical to the minimum principal stress direction. Further, microseismic cloud shape ratios showed good agreement when compared with in situ stress magnitude ratios. The permeability tensor estimated from microseismicity also provided a good correlation in terms of direction and magnitude with the microseismic cloud growth. We show that in situ stress plays a dominant role by controlling the permeability of each existing fracture in the reservoir fracture system. Consequently, microseismic cloud growth can be scaled by in situ stress as a first‐order approximation if there is sufficient variation in the orientation of existing faults.
Roman aqueduct maintenance in the water supply system of Divona, France
Authors: Sürmelihindi Gül , Passchier Cees W. , Rigal Didier , Wilson Andrew , Spötl Christoph
Published: August 2023

Carbonate deposits formed in Roman aqueducts provide a window onto the environment and water management in antiquity. These laminated archives precipitated over a period of decades to centuries and are a potential high-resolution source of unwritten history. However, their use as environmental archives is hampered by local and partial removal during maintenance work in some aqueducts. This apparent problem, however, creates a unique opportunity to study Roman water management. We present the discovery of traces of regular maintenance in carbonate deposits of the Roman aqueduct of Divona (Cahors, France). The main objective of this study is to determine the periodicity of local carbonate removal and repairs in this aqueduct. Traces such as tool marks, calcite deformation twins, debris from cleaning and repairs are attested in the deposits as proof of periodic manual carbonate removal by Roman maintenance teams. The δ18O profile, recording at least 88 years of deposition, shows that maintenance work was done at intervals of 1–5 years. The undisturbed periodicity of the δ18O profile indicates that work was carried out rapidly and never in summer, consonant with the advice of the Roman author Frontinus about maintenance of the aqueducts of the city of Rome. Maintenance intervals lengthened and cleaning became less frequent close to the final years of the aqueduct. This change in maintenance policy gives insight into changing local population and socio-economic dynamics in late antiquity.
Species-specific metabolites mediate host selection and larval recruitment of the symbiotic seastar shrimp
Authors: Lourtie Alexia , Eeckhaut Igor , Mallefet Jérôme , Savarino Philippe , Isorez Mathilde , Mussoi Lisa , Bischoff Hugo , Delroisse Jérôme , Hédouin Laetitia , Gerbaux Pascal , Caulier Guillaume
Published: August 2023

In marine environments, host selection, defining how symbiotic organisms recognize and interact with their hosts, is often mediated by olfactory communication. Although adult symbionts may select their hosts detecting chemosensory cues, no information is available concerning the recruitment of symbiotic larvae which is a crucial step to sustain symbioses over generations. This study investigates the olfactory recognition of seastar hosts by adult Zenopontoniasoror shrimps and the recruitment of their larvae. We examine the semiochemicals that influence host selection using chemical extractions, behavioural experiments in olfactometers, and mass spectrometry analyses. After describing the symbiotic population and the embryonic development of shrimps, our results demonstrate that asterosaponins, which are traditionally considered as chemical defences in seastars, are species-specific and play a role in attracting the symbiotic shrimps. Adult shrimps were found to be attracted only by their original host species Culcitanovaeguineae, while larvae were attracted by different species of seastars. This study provides the first chemical identification of an olfactory cue used by larvae of symbiotic organisms to locate their host for recruitment. These findings highlight the importance of chemical communication in the mediation of symbiotic associations, which has broader significant implications for understanding the ecological dynamics of marine ecosystems.
Left-sided valvular heart disease and survival in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest: a nationwide registry-based study
Authors: Dejby Ellen , Bhatt Deepak L. , Skoglund Kristofer , Rawshani Aidin , Omerovic Elmir , Redfors Björn , Myredal Anna , Petursson Petur , Angerås Oskar , Gustafsson Arvid , Isaksén Daniella , Herlitz Johan , Rawshani Araz
Published: August 2023

Survival in left-sided valvular heart disease (VHD; aortic stenosis [AS], aortic regurgitation [AR], mitral stenosis [MS], mitral regurgitation [MR]) in out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is unknown. We studied all cases of OHCA in the Swedish Registry for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation. All degrees of VHD, diagnosed prior to OHCA, were included. Association between VHD and survival was studied using logistic regression, gradient boosting and Cox regression. We studied time to cardiac arrest, comorbidities, survival, and cerebral performance category (CPC) score. We included 55,615 patients; 1948 with AS (3,5%), 384 AR (0,7%), 17 MS (0,03%), and 704 with MR (1,3%). Patients with MS were not described due to low case number. Time from VHD diagnosis to cardiac arrest was 3.7 years in AS, 4.5 years in AR and 4.1 years in MR. ROSC occurred in 28% with AS, 33% with AR, 36% with MR and 35% without VHD. Survival at 30 days was 5.2%, 10.4%, 9.2%, 11.4% in AS, AR, MR and without VHD, respectively. There were no survivors in people with AS presenting with asystole or PEA. CPC scores did not differ in those with VHD compared with no VHD. Odds ratio (OR) for MR and AR showed no difference in survival, while AS displayed OR 0.58 (95% CI 0.46–0.72), vs no VHD. AS is associated with halved survival in OHCA, while AR and MR do not affect survival. Survivors with AS have neurological outcomes comparable to patients without VHD.
Increased body weight in mice with fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (Fmr1) gene mutation is associated with hypothalamic dysfunction
Authors: Ruggiero-Ruff Rebecca E. , Villa Pedro A. , Hijleh Sarah Abu , Avalos Bryant , DiPatrizio Nicholas V. , Haga-Yamanaka Sachiko , Coss Djurdjica
Published: August 2023

Mutations in the Fragile X Messenger Ribonucleoprotein 1 (FMR1) gene are linked to Fragile X Syndrome, the most common monogenic cause of intellectual disability and autism. People affected with mutations in FMR1 have higher incidence of obesity, but the mechanisms are largely unknown. In the current study, we determined that male Fmr1 knockout mice (KO, Fmr1−/y), but not female Fmr1−/−, exhibit increased weight when compared to wild-type controls, similarly to humans with FMR1 mutations. No differences in food or water intake were found between groups; however, male Fmr1−/y display lower locomotor activity, especially during their active phase. Moreover, Fmr1−/y have olfactory dysfunction determined by buried food test, although they exhibit increased compulsive behavior, determined by marble burying test. Since olfactory brain regions communicate with hypothalamic regions that regulate food intake, including POMC neurons that also regulate locomotion, we examined POMC neuron innervation and numbers in Fmr1−/y mice. POMC neurons express Fmrp, and POMC neurons in Fmr1−/y have higher inhibitory GABAergic synaptic inputs. Consistent with increased inhibitory innervation, POMC neurons in the Fmr1−/y mice exhibit lower activity, based on cFOS expression. Notably, Fmr1−/y mice have fewer POMC neurons than controls, specifically in the rostral arcuate nucleus, which could contribute to decreased locomotion and increased body weight. These results suggest a role for Fmr1 in the regulation of POMC neuron function and the etiology of Fmr1-linked obesity.
Variations in climate habitability parameters and their effect on Earth's biosphere during the Phanerozoic Eon
Authors: Vilović Iva , Schulze-Makuch Dirk , Heller René
Published: August 2023

Essential insights on the characterization and quality of a detectable biosphere are gained by analyzing the effects of its environmental parameters. We compiled environmental and biological properties of the Phanerozoic Eon from various published data sets and conducted a correlation analysis to assess variations in parameters relevant to the habitability of Earth’s biosphere. We showed that environmental parameters such as oxygen, global average surface temperatures, runoff rates and carbon dioxide are interrelated and play a key role in the changes of biomass and biodiversity. We showed that there were several periods with a highly thriving biosphere, with one even surpassing present day biodiversity and biomass. Those periods were characterized by increased oxygen levels and global runoff rates, as well as moderate global average surface temperatures, as long as no large or rapid positive and/or negative temperature excursions occurred. High oxygen contents are diagnostic of biomass production by continental plant life. We find that exceptionally high oxygen levels can at least in one instance compensate for decreased relative humidities, providing an even more habitable environment compared to today. Beyond Earth, these results will help us to understand how environmental parameters affect biospheres on extrasolar planets and guide us in our search for extraterrestrial life.
Flexible topographical design of light-emitting diodes realizing electrically controllable multi-wavelength spectra
Authors: Matsuda Yoshinobu , Umemoto Ryunosuke , Funato Mitsuru , Kawakami Yoichi
Published: August 2023

Multi-wavelength visible light emitters play a crucial role in current solid-state lighting. Although they can be realized by combining semiconductor light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and phosphors or by assembling multiple LED chips with different wavelengths, these design approaches suffer from phosphor-related issues or complex assembly processes. These challenges are significant drawbacks for emerging applications such as visible light communication and micro-LED displays. Herein we present a platform for tailored emission wavelength integration on a single chip utilizing epitaxial growth on flexibly-designed three-dimensional topographies. This approach spontaneously arranges the local emission wavelengths of InGaN-based LED structures through the local In composition variations. As a result, we demonstrate monolithic integration of three different emission colors (violet, blue, and green) on a single chip. Furthermore, we achieve flexible spectral control via independent electrical control of each component. Our integration scheme opens the possibility for tailored spectral control in an arbitrary spectral range through monolithic multi-wavelength LEDs.
Machine-learning for the prediction of one-year seizure recurrence based on routine electroencephalography
Authors: Lemoine Émile , Toffa Denahin , Pelletier-Mc Duff Geneviève , Xu An Qi , Jemel Mezen , Tessier Jean-Daniel , Lesage Frédéric , Nguyen Dang K. , Bou Assi Elie
Published: August 2023

Predicting seizure recurrence risk is critical to the diagnosis and management of epilepsy. Routine electroencephalography (EEG) is a cornerstone of the estimation of seizure recurrence risk. However, EEG interpretation relies on the visual identification of interictal epileptiform discharges (IEDs) by neurologists, with limited sensitivity. Automated processing of EEG could increase its diagnostic yield and accessibility. The main objective was to develop a prediction model based on automated EEG processing to predict one-year seizure recurrence in patients undergoing routine EEG. We retrospectively selected a consecutive cohort of 517 patients undergoing routine EEG at our institution (training set) and a separate, temporally shifted cohort of 261 patients (testing set). We developed an automated processing pipeline to extract linear and non-linear features from the EEGs. We trained machine learning algorithms on multichannel EEG segments to predict one-year seizure recurrence. We evaluated the impact of IEDs and clinical confounders on performances and validated the performances on the testing set. The receiver operating characteristic area-under-the-curve for seizure recurrence after EEG in the testing set was 0.63 (95% CI 0.55–0.71). Predictions were still significantly above chance in EEGs with no IEDs. Our findings suggest that there are changes other than IEDs in the EEG signal embodying seizure propensity.
Complexity of the COVID-19 pandemic in Maringá
Authors: Sunahara Andre S. , Pessa Arthur A. B. , Perc Matjaž , Ribeiro Haroldo V.
Published: August 2023

While extensive literature exists on the COVID-19 pandemic at regional and national levels, understanding its dynamics and consequences at the city level remains limited. This study investigates the pandemic in Maringá, a medium-sized city in Brazil’s South Region, using data obtained by actively monitoring the disease from March 2020 to June 2022. Despite prompt and robust interventions, COVID-19 cases increased exponentially during the early spread of COVID-19, with a reproduction number lower than that observed during the initial outbreak in Wuhan. Our research demonstrates the remarkable impact of non-pharmaceutical interventions on both mobility and pandemic indicators, particularly during the onset and the most severe phases of the emergency. However, our results suggest that the city’s measures were primarily reactive rather than proactive. Maringá faced six waves of cases, with the third and fourth waves being the deadliest, responsible for over two-thirds of all deaths and overwhelming the local healthcare system. Excess mortality during this period exceeded deaths attributed to COVID-19, indicating that the burdened healthcare system may have contributed to increased mortality from other causes. By the end of the fourth wave, nearly three-quarters of the city’s population had received two vaccine doses, significantly decreasing deaths despite the surge caused by the Omicron variant. Finally, we compare these findings with the national context and other similarly sized cities, highlighting substantial heterogeneities in the spread and impact of the disease.
Machine learning discriminates P2X7-mediated intracellular calcium sparks in human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived neural stem cells
Authors: Hanafusa Yuki , Shiraishi Akira , Hattori Fumiyuki
Published: August 2023

Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is an extracellular signaling molecule that mainly affects the pathophysiological situation in the body and can be sensed by purinergic receptors, including ionotropic P2X7. Neuronal stem cells (NSCs) remain in adult neuronal tissues and can contribute to physiological processes via activation by evoked pathophysiological situations. In this study, we revealed that human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived NSCs (iNSCs) have ATP-sensing ability primarily via the purinergic and ionotropic receptor P2X7. Next, to develop a machine learning (ML)-based screening system for food-derived neuronal effective substances and their effective doses, we collected ATP-triggered calcium responses of iNSCs pretreated with several substances and doses. Finally, we discovered that ML was performed using composite images, each containing nine waveform images, to achieve a better ML model (MLM) with higher precision. Our MLM can correctly sort subtle unidentified changes in waveforms produced by pretreated iNSCs with each substance and/or dose into the positive group, with common mRNA expression changes belonging to the gene ontology signatures.
Auditory brainstem mechanisms likely compensate for self-imposed peripheral inhibition
Authors: Boothalingam Sriram , Peterson Abigayle , Powell Lindsey , Easwar Vijayalakshmi
Published: August 2023

Feedback networks in the brain regulate downstream auditory function as peripheral as the cochlea. However, the upstream neural consequences of this peripheral regulation are less understood. For instance, the medial olivocochlear reflex (MOCR) in the brainstem causes putative attenuation of responses generated in the cochlea and cortex, but those generated in the brainstem are perplexingly unaffected. Based on known neural circuitry, we hypothesized that the inhibition of peripheral input is compensated for by positive feedback in the brainstem over time. We predicted that the inhibition could be captured at the brainstem with shorter (1.5 s) than previously employed long duration (240 s) stimuli where this inhibition is likely compensated for. Results from 16 normal-hearing human listeners support our hypothesis in that when the MOCR is activated, there is a robust reduction of responses generated at the periphery, brainstem, and cortex for short-duration stimuli. Such inhibition at the brainstem, however, diminishes for long-duration stimuli suggesting some compensatory mechanisms at play. Our findings provide a novel non-invasive window into potential gain compensation mechanisms in the brainstem that may have implications for auditory disorders such as tinnitus. Our methodology will be useful in the evaluation of efferent function in individuals with hearing loss.
Endocrine, inflammatory and immune responses and individual differences in acute hypobaric hypoxia in lowlanders
Authors: Nishimura Takayuki , Motoi Midori , Toyoshima Hideo , Kishida Fumi , Shin Sora , Katsumura Takafumi , Nakayama Kazuhiro , Oota Hiroki , Higuchi Shigekazu , Watanuki Shigeki , Maeda Takafumi
Published: August 2023

When lowlanders are exposed to environments inducing hypobaric hypoxia (HH) such as high mountains, hemodynamic changes occur to maintain oxygen levels in the body. However, changes to other physiological functions under such conditions have yet to be clarified. This study investigated changes in endocrine, inflammatory and immune parameters and individual differences during acute HH exposure using a climatic chamber (75 min of exposure to conditions mimicking 3500 m) in healthy lowlanders. Aldosterone and cortisol were significantly decreased and interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8 and white blood cell (WBC) counts were significantly increased after HH. Lower peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) was associated with higher IL-6 and WBC counts, and higher IL-8 was associated with higher cortisol. These findings suggest that endocrine, inflammatory and immune responses are evoked even with a short 75-min exposure to HH and individuals with lower SpO2 seemed to show more pronounced responses. Our results provide basic data for understanding the physiological responses and interactions of homeostatic systems during acute HH.
Cuticular property affects the insecticidal synergy of major constituents in thyme oil against houseflies, Musca domestica
Authors: Yoon Junho , Tak Jun-Hyung
Published: August 2023

Plant essential oils are intricate blends comprising predominantly of monoterpenes and some sesquiterpenes. These oils display diverse bioactivities against targeted organisms, often arising from complex interactions among their constituents, which may demonstrate synergistic or antagonistic effects. Despite their wide use as botanical insecticides, the mechanisms behind these interactions and their effects on bioactivity are poorly understood. This study investigated the synergistic interaction of thymol and p-cymene, two major constituents of Thymus vulgaris essential oil, on the larvae and adults of the housefly, Musca domestica. The results showed that p-cymene synergized the insecticidal activity of thymol in adult houseflies, but not in larvae. GC–MS analyses and bioassays indicated the increased cuticular penetration of thymol by p-cymene was the mechanism of synergy, which was observed only in the adults. Two potential routes were proposed: the expansion of the wetting area, or the disruption of cuticular integrity through dissolving the wax layer. The sequential application and large-volume treatment bioassay results suggested that the former was the more likely mechanism. Also, the hydrophobicity of the cuticle seemed critical for this stage-specific synergy. Wax-devoid adults failed to show synergistic toxicity, whereas artificially wax-coated larvae gained a synergistic effect. Overall, the findings provide insights into the synergistic mechanism of insecticidal activity of plant essential oils and suggest potential applications in developing effective strategies using penetration-enhancing synergists.
Controlling differentiation of stem cells via bioactive disordered cues
Authors: Zhang Yujie , Rémy Murielle , Apartsin Evgeny , Prouvé Emilie , Feuillie Cécile , Labrugère Christine , Cam Nithavong , Durrieu Marie-Christine
Published: August 2023

A micro-, nano-structured bioactive surface, mimicking the extracellular matrix, acts like a magician in promoting the differentiation of adult stem cells into osteoblasts and osteocytes.
Origin and characterization of the oxygen loss phenomenon in the layered oxide cathodes of Li-ion batteries
Authors: Feng Junrun , Chen Zhuo , Zhou Weihua , Hao Zhangxiang
Published: August 2023

This review summarizes the current understanding of the origins of oxygen loss in LLMO cathodes and introduces advanced characterization techniques used to detect the phenomenon.
Design, synthesis, anti-proliferative evaluation, docking, and MD simulation studies of new thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidines targeting VEGFR-2
Authors: El-Metwally Souad A. , Elkady Hazem , Hagras Mohamed , Husein Dalal Z. , Ibrahim Ibrahim M. , Taghour Mohammed S. , El-Mahdy Hesham A. , Ismail Ahmed , Alsfouk Bshra A. , Elkaeed Eslam B. , Metwaly Ahmed M. , Eissa Ibrahim H.
Published: August 2023

Design, synthesis, in vitro, and in silico studies of new thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidines as antitumor VEGFR-2 inhibitors with apoptotic activities.
Tm3+; Yb3+:Zn2TiO4 near infrared to blue upconversion phosphors for anti-counterfeit applications
Authors: Dutta Joydip , Chakraborty Mitesh , Rai Vineet Kumar
Published: August 2023

The upconversion (UC) emission spectra recorded by using 980 nm laser of the prepared phosphors. The excitation wavelength shows intense blue colour. The anti-counterfeit application of the prepared sample demonstrated.
Polyaniline-modified halloysite nanotubes as high-efficiency adsorbents for removing of naproxen in the presence of different heavy metals
Authors: Wang Qihui , Huang Minghui , Zhu Ying , Wang Jiexue , He Zihang , Liu Jun , Sun Kang , Li Zhonghui , Deng Guowei
Published: August 2023

A novel polyaniline-modified halloysite nanotubes (HNT@PA-2) was synthesized successfully by in situ polymerization to removing of naproxen with the presence of different heavy metals.
Constructing a square-like copper cluster to boost C–C coupling for CO2 electroreduction to ethylene
Authors: Zhao Tiantian , Yan Tingyu , Sun Yuting , Wang Zhongxu , Cai Qinghai , Zhao Jingxiang , Chen Zhongfang
Published: August 2023

By DFT computations, we proposed Cu5@MoS2—an anchored Cu5 cluster on defective MoS2—as a promising catalyst for CO2-to-ethylene conversion. With distinctive square-like sites, Cu5@MoS2 demonstrates remarkable activity and selectivity, particularly in alkaline conditions.
Engineering metabolic cycle-inspired hydrogels with enzyme-fueled programmable transient volume changes
Authors: Hong Young Kyoung , Nakamoto Masahiko , Matsusaki Michiya
Published: August 2023

The development of hydrogels that can exhibit a transient response, fueled by enzymes, while also depleting the enzymatic activity of fuel, holds immense potential for sophisticated materials capable of dynamically intervening in biological events.
Influence of Lexical Tone Similarity on Spoken Word Recognition in Mandarin Chinese: Evidence From Eye Tracking
Authors: Li Shuang , Tong Xiuhong , Shen Wei
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

Using the visual world paradigm with the eye-tracking technique, this study examined the extent to which lexical tone similarity influences spoken word recognition.

Method:

In two experiments, participants were audibly presented with a target word and visually presented with the same target word, a tonal competitor, and two distractors, and they were required to identify the target word. In Experiment 1, the two tonal competitors shared either acoustically highly similar tones (e.g., target word: “阳台” /

yang
2
tai2

/, “
balcony
” vs. competitor: “养子” /

yang
3
zi3

/, “
adopted son
”) or acoustically lowly similar tones (e.g., target word: “阳台” /

yang
2
tai2

/, “
balcony
” vs. competitor: “样本” /

yang
4
ben3

/, “
sample
”). In Experiment 2, the acoustic similarity of the target words and the tonal competitors shared either acoustically highly similar tones or acoustically lowly similar tones or identical tones (e.g., target word: “阳台” /

yang
2
tai2

/, “
balcony
” vs. competitor:
“
羊毛” /

yang
2
mao2

/, “
wool
”).

Results:

The results of the two experiments consistently demonstrated a graded tonal competitor effect, in which acoustically highly similar tonal competitors attracted more visual attention than acoustically lowly similar tonal competitors.

Conclusion:

Tonal similarity plays a graded constraining role in spoken word recognition in Mandarin Chinese.
Bilingual Vocabulary Assessment: Examining Single-Language, Conceptual, and Total Scoring Approaches
Authors: Fitton Lisa , Goodrich J. Marc , Thayer Lauren , Pratt Amy , Luna Rose
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

This study explored approaches for measuring vocabulary among bilingual children with varying levels of proficiency in Spanish and English.

Method:

One hundred fifteen kindergarten and first-grade Spanish–English-speaking children completed measures of vocabulary and sentence repetition in Spanish and English. Scores were derived from their responses to the vocabulary measure: Spanish-only vocabulary, English-only vocabulary, conceptual vocabulary, and total vocabulary. Best language sentence repetition was also obtained. Using both visualization of data and statistical analysis, we tested for potential associations between children's relative language skills in Spanish and English and the scores they received on each of the vocabulary metrics.

Results:

Participants' single-language vocabulary scores were linearly associated with their relative language scores. Higher relative Spanish language skills corresponded with higher Spanish-only vocabulary scores, and higher English language skills corresponded with higher English-only vocabulary scores. A quadratic association between children's relative language and their conceptual vocabulary scores was observed. Children with more balanced skills in Spanish and English received lower scores for conceptual vocabulary. No association between total vocabulary and relative language was observed.

Conclusions:

Results revealed evidence of differential test bias for single-language vocabulary scores and conceptual vocabulary scores. Spanish-only vocabulary underestimated knowledge of participants with higher English proficiency, whereas English-only vocabulary underestimated knowledge of participants with higher Spanish proficiency. Conceptual scoring yielded lower values for participants with relatively balanced proficiency in Spanish and English. There is need for further consideration of score and test functioning across the full continuum of bilinguals with dynamic proficiencies in each of their languages.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.23796330