bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of thermal and oxygen conditions during development on cell size in the common rough woodlice Porcellio scaber
Authors: Antoł Andrzej , Labecka Anna Maria , Horváthová Terézia , Sikorska Anna , Szabla Natalia , Bauchinger Ulf , Kozłowski Jan , Czarnoleski Marcin
Published: August 2020

During development, cells may adjust their size to balance between the tissue metabolic demand and the oxygen and resource supply: Small cells may effectively absorb oxygen and nutrients, but the relatively large area of the plasma membrane requires costly maintenance. Consequently, warm and hypoxic environments should favor ectotherms with small cells to meet increased metabolic demand by oxygen supply. To test these predictions, we compared cell size (hindgut epithelium, hepatopancreas B cells, ommatidia) in common rough woodlice (Porcellio scaber) that were developed under four developmental conditions designated by two temperatures (15 or 22°C) and two air O2 concentrations (10% or 22%). To test whether small‐cell woodlice cope better under increased metabolic demand, the CO2 production of each woodlouse was measured under cold, normoxic conditions and under warm, hypoxic conditions, and the magnitude of metabolic increase (MMI) was calculated. Cell sizes were highly intercorrelated, indicative of organism‐wide mechanisms of cell cycle control. Cell size differences among woodlice were largely linked with body size changes (larger cells in larger woodlice) and to a lesser degree with oxygen conditions (development of smaller cells under hypoxia), but not with temperature. Developmental conditions did not affect MMI, and contrary to predictions, large woodlice with large cells showed higher MMI than small woodlice with small cells. We also observed complex patterns of sexual difference in the size of hepatopancreatic cells and the size and number of ommatidia, which are indicative of sex differences in reproductive biology. We conclude that existing theories about the adaptiveness of cell size do not satisfactorily explain the patterns in cell size and metabolic performance observed here in P. scaber. Thus, future studies addressing physiological effects of cell size variance should simultaneously consider different organismal elements that can be involved in sustaining the metabolic demands of tissue, such as the characteristics of gas‐exchange organs and O2‐binding proteins.
Best environmental predictors of breeding phenology differ with elevation in a common woodland bird species
Authors: Bison Marjorie , Yoccoz Nigel G. , Carlson Bradley , Klein Geoffrey , Laigle Idaline , Van Reeth Colin , Asse Daphné , Delestrade Anne
Published: August 2020

Temperatures in mountain areas are increasing at a higher rate than the Northern Hemisphere land average, but how fauna may respond, in particular in terms of phenology, remains poorly understood. The aim of this study was to assess how elevation could modify the relationships between climate variability (air temperature and snow melt‐out date), the timing of plant phenology and egg‐laying date of the coal tit (Periparus ater). We collected 9 years (2011–2019) of data on egg‐laying date, spring air temperature, snow melt‐out date, and larch budburst date at two elevations (~1,300 m and ~1,900 m asl) on a slope located in the Mont‐Blanc Massif in the French Alps. We found that at low elevation, larch budburst date had a direct influence on egg‐laying date, while at high‐altitude snow melt‐out date was the limiting factor. At both elevations, air temperature had a similar effect on egg‐laying date, but was a poorer predictor than larch budburst or snowmelt date. Our results shed light on proximate drivers of breeding phenology responses to interannual climate variability in mountain areas and suggest that factors directly influencing species phenology vary at different elevations. Predicting the future responses of species in a climate change context will require testing the transferability of models and accounting for nonstationary relationships between environmental predictors and the timing of phenological events.
Soil‐texture affects the influence of termite macropores on soil water infiltration in a semi‐arid savanna
Authors: Marquart Arnim , Goldbach Lars , Blaum Niels
Published: August 2020

Subterranean termites create tunnels (macropores) for foraging that can influence water infiltration and may lead to preferential flow to deeper soil layers. This is particularly important in water limited ecosystems such as semi‐arid, agriculturally utilized savannas, which are particularly prone to land degradation and shrub‐encroachment. Using termite activity has been suggested as a restoration measure, but their impact on hydrology is neither universal nor yet fully understood. Here, we used highly replicated, small‐scale (50 × 50 cm) rain‐simulation experiments to analyse the interacting effects of either vegetation (grass dominated vs. shrub dominated sites) or soil texture (sand vs. loamy sand) and termite foraging macropores on infiltration patterns. We used Brilliant Blue FCF as colour tracer to make the flow pathways in paired experiments visible, on either termite‐disturbed soil or controls without surface macropores in two semi‐arid Namibian savannas (with either heterogeneous soil texture or shrub cover). On highly shrub‐encroached plots in the savanna site with heterogeneous soil texture, termite macropores increased maximum infiltration depth and total amount of infiltrated water on loamy sand, but not on sandy soil. In the sandy savanna with heterogeneous shrub cover, neither termite activity nor shrub density affected the infiltration. Termite's effect on infiltration depends on the soil's hydraulic conductivity and occurs mostly under ponded conditions, intercepting run‐off. In semi‐arid savanna soils with a considerable fraction of fine particles, termites are likely an important factor for soil water dynamics.
Relationship between triglyceride glucose index, retinopathy and nephropathy in Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Srinivasan Sangeetha , Singh Pallavi , Kulothungan Vaitheeswaran , Sharma Tarun , Raman Rajiv
Published: August 2020

Aims

To explore the relationship between TyG index, diabetic retinopathy (DR) and nephropathy.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional observational study that examined 1413 subjects with type 2 diabetes (both known and newly diagnosed). Subjects underwent a detailed standard evaluation to detect diabetic retinopathy (fundus photography) and nephropathy (defined as urinary albumin excretion ≥ 30 mg/24 h). The TyG index was calculated as ln (fasting triglycerides (mg/dL) × fasting glucose (mg/dL)/2) and stratified into 4 quartiles (TyG‐Q). The baseline characteristics of the study population in the four TyG‐Q (Q1 (≤7.3) n = 349, Q2 (>7.3 to ≤ 7.5) n = 358, Q3 (>7.5 to ≤ 8.0) n = 354, and Q4 (>8.0) n = 352) were analysed. Variables associated with the presence of DR and nephropathy were assessed using a stepwise binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

The presence of DR was associated with higher TyG index (OR = 1.453, P =.001) and longer duration of diabetes (OR = 1.085, P < .001). The presence of nephropathy was associated with a higher TyG index (OR = 1.703, P < .001), greater age (OR = 1.031, P < .001), use of insulin (OR = 1.842, P = .033), higher systolic BP (OR = 1.015, P < .001), and the presence of DR (OR = 3.052, P < .001). Higher TyG‐Q correlated with the severity of DR (P = .024), presence of nephropathy (P = .001), age (P < .001) and diastolic blood pressure (P = .006).

Conclusions

A higher TyG index is associated with the presence of retinopathy and nephropathy in individuals with diabetes and could be used for monitoring metabolic status in clinical settings.
Cause‐specific mortality rates in patients with diabetes according to comorbid macro‐ and microvascular complications: BioBank Japan Cohort
Authors: Yokomichi Hiroshi , Nagai Akiko , Hirata Makoto , Mochizuki Mie , Kojima Reiji , Yamagata Zentaro ,   BioBank Japan Project
Published: August 2020

Objective

This study aimed to compare cause‐specific mortality rates in patients with type 2 diabetes with and without various vascular complications.

Methods

In Japanese hospitals, we followed up 30 834 patients with a mean age of 64.4 (standard deviation [SD]: 11.1) years. Patients were followed up from 2003 to 2007 for a median of 7.5 (interquartile range: 6.1‐9.7) years. We calculated cause‐specific mortality rates (number of deaths/1000 person‐years) and confounder‐adjusted hazard ratios in patients with macrovascular disease and in those with diabetic nephropathy, neuropathy and retinopathy, allowing for overlap of complications.

Results

All‐cause mortality rate was highest (51.4) in the nephropathy group, followed by the macrovascular disease group (45.2), the neuropathy group (39.5), the retinopathy group (38.7) and the nonvascular complication group (18.1). In the nephropathy group, morality rates of ischaemic heart, cerebrovascular, and infectious diseases and cancer were also highest among the groups. However, the cancer mortality rate was similar among the vascular complication groups. Relative to the nonvascular complication group, covariate‐adjusted hazard ratios for ischaemic heart and cerebrovascular disease mortality were triple to quadruple in the macro‐ and microvascular complication groups. All‐cause mortality rates rose exponentially according to age.

Conclusion

Highest risks of all‐cause, cancer, and ischaemic heart, infectious, and cerebrovascular disease mortality were determined in Japanese patients with diabetic nephropathy. Although cancer is the primary cause of death in Japanese patients with diabetes, cancer mortality rates are similar among those with and without vascular complications.
Species detection from aquatic eDNA: Assessing the importance of capture methods
Authors: Peixoto Sara , Chaves Cátia , Velo‐Antón Guillermo , Beja Pedro , Egeter Bastian
Published: August 2020

Environmental DNA (eDNA) is increasingly used for biodiversity monitoring, particularly in aquatic systems. However, each step, from sample collection to bioinformatic analysis, can introduce biases and influence the reliability of results. While much effort has been put into the optimization of laboratory methods, less attention has been devoted to estimate the impacts of eDNA capture methods. To address this issue, water samples were collected at nine small ponds and puddles where up to 10 amphibian species occur, using precipitation, disc filters, and capsules. We focused on targeted detection of an amphibian species, Salamandra salamandra, and on the composition of the whole amphibian community. Species detection was performed using a novel qPCR assay for S. salamandra and high‐throughput sequencing, combined with stringent versus relaxed PCR replication thresholds. Filtration techniques (disc filters and capsules) outperformed precipitation, generating a higher number of detections of S. salamandra and higher amounts of captured eDNA, while species detection was identical between disc filters and capsules. There were no significant differences between capture methods regarding amphibian community composition. The variation in detection success associated with capture methods was far higher than that associated with PCR replication, regardless of the detection method used. Our results highlight the importance of choosing a suitable capture method for eDNA studies and suggest that the choice of capture method outweighs the choice of detection method used. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to compare high‐capacity capsules with common eDNA methods for water samples, such as precipitation and standard disc filters.
The cancer patient and cardiology
Authors: Zamorano José Luis , Gottfridsson Christer , Asteggiano Riccardo , Atar Dan , Badimon Lina , Bax Jeroen J. , Cardinale Daniela , Cardone Antonella , Feijen Elizabeth A.M. , Ferdinandy Péter , López‐Fernández Teresa , Gale Chris P. , Maduro John H. , Moslehi Javid , Omland Torbjørn , Plana Gomez Juan Carlos , Scott Jessica , Suter Thomas M. , Minotti Giorgio
Published: August 2020

Advances in cancer treatments have improved clinical outcomes, leading to an increasing population of cancer survivors. However, this success is associated with high rates of short‐ and long‐term cardiovascular (CV) toxicities. The number and variety of cancer drugs and CV toxicity types make long‐term care a complex undertaking. This requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes expertise in oncology, cardiology and other related specialties, and has led to the development of the cardio‐oncology subspecialty.

This paper aims to provide an overview of the main adverse events, risk assessment and risk mitigation strategies, early diagnosis, medical and complementary strategies for prevention and management, and long‐term follow‐up strategies for patients at risk of cancer therapy‐related cardiotoxicities. Research to better define strategies for early identification, follow‐up and management is highly necessary. Although the academic cardio‐oncology community may be the best vehicle to foster awareness and research in this field, additional stakeholders (industry, government agencies and patient organizations) must be involved to facilitate cross‐discipline interactions and help in the design and funding of cardio‐oncology trials.

The overarching goals of cardio‐oncology are to assist clinicians in providing optimal care for patients with cancer and cancer survivors, to provide insight into future areas of research and to search for collaborations with industry, funding bodies and patient advocates. However, many unmet needs remain. This document is the product of brainstorming presentations and active discussions held at the Cardiovascular Round Table workshop organized in January 2020 by the European Society of Cardiology.
Ferrite Nanocomposite Based Electrochemical Sensor: Characterization, Voltammetric and Amperometric Studies for Electrocatalytic Detection of Formaldehyde in Aqueous Media
Authors: Ganie Adil Shafi , Bano Sayfa , Sultana Saima , Sabir Suhail , Khan Mohammad Zain
Published: August 2020

Development of nanocomposite based electrochemical sensors for detection of toxic chemicals describes an environmentally benign strategy for monitoring the health of ecosystem. Herein, we reported in situ preparation of graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) decorated Ag2S/NiFe2O4 nanocomposite sensor by facile precipitation method. The electrochemical studies demonstrated efficient electrocatalytic activity of ternary nanocomposite pasted glassy carbon electrode (g‐C3N4@Ag2S/NiFe2O4/GCE) for selective detection of formaldehyde. Moreover, fabricated sensor exhibit rapid amperometric response with excellent selectivity, remarkable sensitivity (1681 μA mmol L−1 cm−2) and lower detection limit (LOD: 1.63 μmol L−1). It is noteworthy to mention that sensor exhibits good operational and long‐term storage stability.
Electrochemical Studies of the Nickel‐based Hydroxide Electrode for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction and Coulombic Efficiency of the Electrode
Authors: Zide Dorcas , Felix Cecil , Oosthuysen Tobie , Bladergroen Bernard Jan
Published: August 2020

Nickel hydroxide, Ni(OH)2 electrode material has been used as a positive electrode in commercial alkaline secondary batteries for more than 100 years. This is because Ni(OH)2 has a good high rate discharge ability performance, wide operation and storage temperature range and relatively low. However, the Ni(OH)2 positive electrode exhibits poor performance which results from (i) competitive reactions of the oxidation of the active material and evolution of oxygen. (ii) The reduced charge acceptance of Ni(OH)2 positive electrode is suspected to be related to a relatively long distance between Ni(OH)2 particles and the nearest portion of the substrate. In this study, electrodes are prepared using β‐Ni(OH)2 powder as the active electrode material, hot‐pressed onto a nickel mesh current collector. The Ni2+ in the compound β‐Ni(OH)2 material is partially substituted with Co2+ and Al3+ metals and the performance of as‐prepared materials are optimized and examined. XRD, FTIR, TG‐DTA, SEM/EDS, and ICP confirms the formation of the expected compositions. The samples with 5 wt.% Co2+, and 10 wt.% Al3+ metals are found to be the optimal compositions with promising electrochemical activities. The modification of Ni(OH)2 by the partial substitution of Co2+ and Al3+ metals for Ni2+ shows some effect on the redox peaks of Ni(OH)2 and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). E.g. the onset for oxidation of the active material is significantly improved with partial substitution of Ni2+ by Co2+. On the other hand partial substitution of Ni2+ with Al3+ moves the onset of electrode oxidation to higher potential. In addition, the partial substitution of 10 wt.% Al3+ metal improves both discharge capacity (from 128 mAh/g to 170 mAh/g), and the coulombic efficiency (from 87 % to 93 %) of the β‐Ni(OH)2 electrode.
Voltammetric Studies of 3‐Nitro‐tyrosine Electro‐oxidation at Solid Electrodes and its Interaction with DNA
Authors: Nascimento José A. M. , Nascimento Maysa L. , Mendes Carlos H. S. , Oliveira Severino Carlos B.
Published: August 2020

The electrochemical oxidation of 3‐nitro‐tyrosine (3‐NO2‐Tyr) was studied in aqueous media at metallic electrodes (platinum and gold), using voltammetric techniques. The interaction between 3‐NO2‐Tyr and double helix DNA (dsDNA) in a physiological medium was also investigated. Electro‐oxidation of 3‐NO2‐Tyr occurs in one single irreversible pH‐dependent step with the transfer of one electron and one proton from the phenolic group to the formation of radicals, which preferably dimerize, fouling the electrode surfaces. The differential pulse voltammetry and gel electrophoresis results clearly demonstrated a strong interaction of 3‐NO2‐Tyr with the dsDNA for the formation of a stable 3‐NO2‐Tyr‐dsDNA complex.
Recent Progress of Single‐atom Catalysts in the Electrocatalytic Reduction of Oxygen to Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Zhu Weiya , Chen Shaowei
Published: August 2020

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have been attracting extensive interest in the electrocatalytic production of hydrogen peroxide by oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). This is due to the maximal efficiency of atom utilization and intimate interaction of the metal centers with the supporting matrix that may be exploited for deliberate manipulation of the electrocatalytic activity and selectivity, in comparison with the conventional nanoparticle counterparts. Herein, we summarize recent progress of the design and engineering of SACs towards ORR for H2O2 generation, based on both noble and non‐noble metals. We conclude the review with a perspective highlighting the promises and challenges involved in future research.
Novel rosette‐like formations with nanothick petals observed on acid‐etched titanium
Authors: Medina Hector , Kohler Rachel
Published: August 2020

Understanding of surface evolution is important in applications that require engineering prescribed surface structures. Novel crystalized formations have been observed on titanium specimens etched with sulfuric acid as part of an ongoing implantology research. Crystal formations resembling rosettes were discovered via scanning electron microcopy near the edges of several commercially pure titanium specimens etched by immersion in 18M (98%) sulfuric acid at 60°C for 30 minutes to 1 hour. These crystallized formations were composed of numerous thin sheets (in the neighborhood of 20‐50 nm thick) resembling “petals” that form in an approximately hexagonal arrangement. Energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy analysis identified these as sulfur oxide formations, probably titanyl sulfate. Literature documentation of similar formations has not been found. Further investigation of the thermal‐chemical potential, activation energies, or other factors involved in the nucleation and growth of these formations is needed. Such understanding could help advance knowledge in areas related to surface engineering and corrosion mechanisms. Furthermore, it is inferred that this novel formations could have applications in certain processes where chemical reactions in bypassing fluids are assisted by surface chemistry and enhanced by surface roughness.
Circularly polarized designs of modified isosceles triangular microstrip antennas
Authors: Deshmukh Amit A. , Ray Kamla P.
Published: August 2020

The modified designs of different isosceles triangular microstrip antennas realized by overlapping two isosceles patches, are proposed for circularly polarized response. An offset distance between the two overlapped patches yield optimum spacing in between the orthogonal modes of the composite patch, to give circular polarization. Proposed configuration is investigated for angle increasing from 50° to 100°. An optimum response in terms of the bandwidth (BW) is obtained in 50° modified isosceles patch. Here, input impedance and axial ratio (AR) BW of 646 MHz (52%) and 76 MHz (6.12%), respectively, is obtained. As an additional design feature, proposed configuration shows variation in the center frequency of AR BW against increasing isosceles angle and the offset distance. Proposed designs exhibit broadside radiation pattern with a gain of above 8 dBi, with a good agreement between the simulated and measured results. A new simpler design for circular polarized response supported with detailed design methodology are the new technical contributions in the proposed work.
Analysis of a hybrid fractal curve antenna using the segmentation method
Authors: Jamil Atif , Yusoff Mohd Zuki , Yahya Noorhana
Published: August 2020

A microstrip‐fed hybrid Fractal antenna for WLAN application is presented in this article. The proposed antenna is composed of meander and Koch elements combined to form a longer curve that extends the electrical length. This approach simultaneously reduces the operating frequency and antenna size. The Green's functions and segmentation method are used to calculate the input impedance of the hybrid Fractal antenna. For analysis, the amalgamated antenna shape is decomposed into simple regular segments. The impedance parameters of the newly arranged shapes are calculated by the corresponding Green's functions. The impedance matrix equations of all the segments are presented so as to display in a single matrix whose solution determines the input impedance of the complete antenna geometry. To validate the theory, a prototype of the proposed antenna has been numerically simulated and experimentally measured.
Waste Heat to Power: Technologies, Current Applications, and Future Potential
Authors: Garofalo Erik , Bevione Matteo , Cecchini Luca , Mattiussi Fabio , Chiolerio Alessandro
Published: August 2020

Energy consumption, environmental impact, and sustainability have risen fast through the ranks, achieving the first places in driving investments, policies, and concerns of all countries at any developmental stage. Energy transformation, though, must cope with nonunitary efficiency of devices and processes, which results in a distributed production of waste heat. A reduction of emissions, implying a conversion of waste heat to more noble forms of energy and a concurrent increase in efficiency of the same devices and processes, is of paramount importance. In view of the enthalpy content and distribution of the different sources of waste heat, low‐grade/low‐enthalpy sources below 200 °C are considered the most fertile field for research and development, with an impressive industrial growth rate. Thermodynamic cycles and thermal conversion devices based on the most relevant physical effects are herein introduced and briefly described, including both solutions that already achieved industrial maturity and less developed systems and devices whose study is still in progress. A specific focus on three application domains, selected due to their economic relevance, is done: industrial processes for the vast energy and capital availability, automotive sector for its permeation, and wearable devices for the market size. Limits and opportunities are critically discussed.
New Synthetic Route of Ultrapure Alkylammonium Iodides for Perovskite Thin Films of Superior Optoelectronic Properties
Authors: Dasgupta Shyantan , Misztal Kasjan , Fuentes Pineda Rosinda , Mróz Wojciech , Pawlaczyk Łukasz , Serafińczuk Jarosław , Barker Alex J. , Ahmad Taimoor , Herman Artur P. , Sahayaraj Sylvester , Kudrawiec Robert , Petrozza Annamaria , Dudkowiak Alina , Wojciechowski Konrad
Published: August 2020

In the past decade, metal halide perovskites grew from a mere scientific sensation to a tangible photovoltaic technology, being on the brink of commercial entrance. Certified efficiency value reported for these devices exceeded 25%. However, there still remains a large scope for further advancement, particularly in better understanding of the formation process of polycrystalline thin films of these materials. Insight into the interplay between colloidal precursor solution and nucleation of perovskite crystallites is highly desirable to obtain well‐controlled crystallization process, essential for reproducible manufacturing at large scale. Herein, a novel synthetic route of methylammonium iodide (CH3NH3I, MAI) is reported, which produces ultrapure material with a cheap and simple method. MAI prepared this way obtains better control over the perovskite precursor colloidal solution. Furthermore, MAPbI3 perovskite layers processed from solutions are formulated with different MAI powders, and these films are applied into a simple planar heterojunction solar cell stack. Through photovoltaic performance characterization and multiple spectroscopic measurements, superior optoelectronic properties of samples made with an optimized solution are demonstrated. The influence of a precursor solution and its colloidal distribution on the final film properties is reported. The reported synthetic protocol is also applicable to other alkylammonium iodides.
Concentrations of Metals in Fishes from the Athabasca and Slave Rivers of Northern Canada
Authors: Tendler Brett , Ohiozebau Ehimai , Codling Garry , Giesy John P. , Jones Paul D.
Published: August 2020

There is growing concern about possible effects of exploitation of the Alberta Oil Sands on the ambient environment, including possible effects on populations of fishes in the Athabasca River and farther downstream in Lake Athabasca and the Slave River. In the present study, concentrations of metals in dorsal muscle tissue of 5 fish species—goldeye, northern pike, walleye, whitefish, and burbot—from the Slave, Peace, and Athabasca Rivers were quantified. A suite of 25 metals including As, Hg, Se, Tl, and V was analyzed. Most metals exhibited no significant variations in concentration among locations. Concentrations of 5 metals, As, Hg, Se, Tl, and V, revealed significant variations among locations and were of sufficient magnitude to be of interest. Concentrations of Hg did not vary significantly among locations; however, because it was detected at concentrations of concern and the use of the selected fishes was a local source of food for humans and pets, it was of interest. Concentrations of As, Se, Tl, and V in dorsal muscle of certain fishes in the farthest downstream sites on the Slave River were greater than those in the same tissues and species in the farther upstream sites on the Peace and Athabasca Rivers. This phenomenon was most prevalent with Tl and to a lesser extent with As and Se. Nevertheless, concentrations were not of concern for the health of human consumers. Although metals did not appear to be increased in fish in the Alberta Oil Sands region in the present study, further research is needed to understand the potential impacts. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:2180–2195. © 2020 SETAC
Toxicity of Carbon Dioxide to Freshwater Fishes: Implications for Aquatic Invasive Species Management
Authors: Cupp Aaron R. , Smerud Justin R. , Thomas Linnea M. , Waller Diane L. , Smith David L. , Erickson Richard A. , Gaikowski Mark P.
Published: August 2020

Carbon dioxide (CO2) has been approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency as a new aquatic pesticide to control invasive Asian carps and other aquatic nuisance species in the United States. However, limited CO2 toxicity data could make it challenging for resource managers to characterize the potential risk to nontarget species during CO2 applications. The present study quantified the toxicity of CO2 to 2 native riverine fishes, bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) and fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas), using 12-h continuous flow-through CO2 exposure at 5, 15, and 25 °C water temperatures. Resulting survival indicated that bluegill (median lethal concentration [LC50] range 91–140 mg/L CO2) were more sensitive to CO2 than fathead minnow (LC50 range 235–306 mg/L CO2) across all water temperatures. Bluegill were also more sensitive to CO2 at 5 °C (LC50 91 mg/L CO2, 95% CI 85–96 mg/L CO2) than at 25 °C (LC50 140 mg/L CO2, 95% CI 135–146 mg/L CO2). Fathead minnow showed an opposite response and were less sensitive at 5 °C (LC50 306 mg/L CO2, 95% CI 286–327 mg/L CO2) relative to 25 °C (LC50 235 mg/L CO2, 95% CI 224–246 mg/L CO2). Our results show that CO2 toxicity can differ by species and water temperature. Data from the present study may inform decisions related to the use of CO2 as a control tool. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:2247–2255. Published 2020. This article is a U.S. government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Experimental study on the effect of lateral concentrated smoke extraction on smoke stratification in the longitudinal ventilated tunnel
Authors: Tang Fei , Zhu Yuantao , Chen Lei
Published: August 2020

Smoke is the main cause of death in tunnel fires. It is one of the important measures to maintain smoke stratification in the early stage of tunnel fire. This article focused on experimentally studying the combined effect of lateral concentrated smoke extraction and longitudinal ventilation on the smoke stratification, which never be revealed before. The velocity of the smoke layer and air layer, vertical temperature distribution, and the flow patterns of the smoke were measured. It was found that the longitudinal ventilation and lateral concentrated smoke extraction would affect the flow of the smoke and change the shear velocity between the smoke layer and air layer, then, the patterns of the smoke layer will be affected. And the flow patterns with Froude (Fr) number can be classified into three categories: (a)Fr < 0.6, with stable smoke stratification; (b) 0.6 < Fr < 0.85, with a stable smoke stratification but the blurring interface; and (c) Fr > 0.85, the smoke layer is completely unstable. The result can provide a reference for ventilation design of immersed tube tunnels.
Mathematical analysis of the spatial coupling of an explicit temporal adaptive integration scheme with an implicit time integration scheme
Authors: Muscat Laurent , Puigt Guillaume , Montagnac Marc , Brenner Pierre
Published: August 2020

The Reynolds‐averaged Navier–Stokes equations and the large eddy simulation equations can be coupled using a transition function to switch from a set of equations applied in some areas of a domain to the other set in the other part of the domain. Following this idea, different time integration schemes can be coupled. In this context, we developed a hybrid time integration scheme that spatially couples the explicit scheme of Heun and Crank–Nicolson's implicit scheme using a dedicated transition function. This scheme is linearly stable and second‐order accurate. In this article, an extension of this hybrid scheme is introduced to deal with a temporal adaptive procedure. The idea is to treat the time integration procedure with unstructured grids as it is performed with Cartesian grids and local mesh refinement. Depending on its characteristic size, each mesh cell is assigned to a rank. And for two cells from two consecutive ranks, the ratio of the associated time steps for time marching the solutions is 2. As a consequence, the cells with the lowest rank iterate more than the other ones to reach the same physical time. In a finite‐volume context, a key ingredient is to keep the conservation property for the interfaces that separate two cells of different ranks. After introducing the different schemes, the article recalls briefly the coupling procedure, and details the extension to the temporal adaptive procedure. The new time integrator is validated with the propagation of 1D wave packet, the Sod's tube, and the advection of 2D vortex.
Molecular characterization of ochratoxigenic fungi associated with poultry feedstuffs in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Gherbawy Youssuf A. , Elhariry Hesham M. , Alamri Saad A. , El‐Dawy Eman G.A.
Published: August 2020

Fungal and mycotoxins contamination of food and poultry feeds can occur at each step along the chain from grain production, storage, and processing. A total of 200 samples comprising of mixed poultry feedstuffs (n = 100) and their ingredients (n = 100) were collected from Riyadh, Alhassa, Qassium, and Jeddah cities in Saudi Arabia. These samples were screened for contamination by fungi. Penicillium chrysogenum was the predominant species taking into its account and frequency, respectively, in both mixed poultry feedstuff and barley samples (4,561.9 and 687 fungal colony‐forming units (CFU)/g) and (66% and 17%). Moisture content was an important indicator for the count of fungi and ochratoxin A. Ochratoxin analysis of plate cultures was performed by a HPLC technique. Sample of mixed poultry feedstuff which was collected from Jeddah displayed the highest level of ochratoxin (14.8 µg/kg) and moisture content (11.5%). Corn grains samples were highly contaminated by ochratoxin A (450 and 423 µg/kg) and recorded the highest moisture contents (14.1 and 14.5%). Ochratoxin A production in fungal species isolated from mixed poultry feedstuff samples were high with P. verrucosum (5.5 μg/kg) and A. niger (1.1 μg/kg). In sorghum and corn grains, the highest ochratoxins producing species were P. viridicatum (5.9 μg/kg) and A. niger (1.3 μg/kg), respectively. Sixty‐three isolates of A. niger were ochratoxigenic, and all of them showed the presence of pks genes using PKS15C‐MeT and PKS15KS primer pairs. The detection technique of A. niger in poultry feedstuff samples described in the present study was successfully used as a rapid and specific protocol for early detection of A. niger without cultivation on specific media.
Gamma‐aminobutyric acid production by Lactobacillus brevis A3: Optimization of production, antioxidant potential, cell toxicity, and antimicrobial activity
Authors: Alizadeh Behbahani Behrooz , Jooyandeh Hossein , Falah Fereshteh , Vasiee Alireza
Published: August 2020

In this study, whey powder was used as the basic compound for fermentation culture and the production of bioactive gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) compound. GABA is a nonprotein four‐carbon amino acid that inhibits stress signals by preventing brain signals, reducing stress, and being effective in treating neurological disorders and decreasing the growth of cancer cells. Due to the side effects caused by the chemical type of GABA, the biological production of GABA has attracted. Three levels of whey powder (5%, 10%, and 15%), and monosodium glutamate (MSG) (1%, 3%, and 5%) were selected at temperatures (25, 30, and 37°C) and after fermentation, the presence of GABA in the culture medium was examined by thin‐layer chromatography. The optimal amount of GABA was measured by using high‐performance liquid chromatography. The results of the central composite design of the response surface methodology at a significant level of 95% showed that the optimal treatment was 14.96% whey powder, 4.95% MSG at temperature of 37°C and fermentation for 48 hr and under these conditions, GABA production was 553.5 ppm. The results of the fermented extract tests showed that the highest antimicrobial activity was on Escherichia coli and the highest free radical scavenging was 59.67%. The IC50 level in the Caco‐2 cancer cell cytotoxicity test was 39.5 mg/ml. According to the results, the combination of whey with MSG can be used as a cheap substrate to produce a valuable bioactive GABA product, and the cellular extract of this fermentation can also be used as an antimicrobial and antioxidant compound in food and pharmaceutical formulations.
Tectono‐geomorphic evolution of Harlik Mountain in the Eastern Tian Shan, insight from thermochronological data and geomorphic analysis
Authors: Chen Yue , Wang Guocan , Shen Tianyi , Zhang Pan , Sotiriou Paul , Zhu Chengyu
Published: August 2020

The Harlik Mountain is in the easternmost part of the Tian Shan and is a prime example of an intracontinental orogenic belt. Several studies have used low‐temperature thermochronology to understand the uplift history of this range. However, complicated structures have a profound impact on the study of the tectonic evolution of the Harlik Mountain during the Mesozoic‐Cenozoic. Here, we refine the structural characteristics of the Harlik Mountain and then acquire the detailed thermal histories in different parts of the range. Through field observations, we demonstrate that the brittle Harlik Fault experienced two activities, including early normal faulting and late right‐lateral strike‐slip normal faulting. In particular, geomorphic and river analyses indicate that the topography of the Harlik Mountain was significantly influenced by faults. Combined with the thermochronological data from previous studies, thermal history modelling based on our new data on the Harlik Mountain suggest three fast cooling phases in the 128–110 Ma, 70–55 Ma, and 50–35 Ma. The first and the third cooling phases were associated with fault activities and the second cooling phase was related to regional denudation. The first phase of faulting, in the late Early Cretaceous, may be caused by stress relaxation after the Cimmerian collision. The second phase of faulting was likely to relate to local stress adjustment from the India‐Eurasia collision during the Eocene to Oligocene. Moreover, Late Cretaceous to Palaeocene regional cooling was probably affected by the collision of the Karakoram Block with Eurasia.
Insights into olfactory ensheathing cell development from a laser‐microdissection and transcriptome‐profiling approach
Authors: Perera Surangi N. , Williams Ruth M. , Lyne Rachel , Stubbs Oliver , Buehler Dennis P. , Sauka‐Spengler Tatjana , Noda Masaharu , Micklem Gos , Southard‐Smith E. Michelle , Baker Clare V. H.
Published: August 2020

Olfactory ensheathing cells (OECs) are neural crest‐derived glia that ensheath bundles of olfactory axons from their peripheral origins in the olfactory epithelium to their central targets in the olfactory bulb. We took an unbiased laser microdissection and differential RNA‐seq approach, validated by in situ hybridization, to identify candidate molecular mechanisms underlying mouse OEC development and differences with the neural crest‐derived Schwann cells developing on other peripheral nerves. We identified 25 novel markers for developing OECs in the olfactory mucosa and/or the olfactory nerve layer surrounding the olfactory bulb, of which 15 were OEC‐specific (that is, not expressed by Schwann cells). One pan‐OEC‐specific gene, Ptprz1, encodes a receptor‐like tyrosine phosphatase that blocks oligodendrocyte differentiation. Mutant analysis suggests Ptprz1 may also act as a brake on OEC differentiation, and that its loss disrupts olfactory axon targeting. Overall, our results provide new insights into OEC development and the diversification of neural crest‐derived glia.
Spatiotemporal complexity patterns of resting‐state bioelectrical activity explain fluid intelligence: Sex matters
Authors: Dreszer Joanna , Grochowski Marek , Lewandowska Monika , Nikadon Jan , Gorgol Joanna , Bałaj Bibianna , Finc Karolina , Duch Włodzisław , Kałamała Patrycja , Chuderski Adam , Piotrowski Tomasz
Published: August 2020

Neural complexity is thought to be associated with efficient information processing but the exact nature of this relation remains unclear. Here, the relationship of fluid intelligence (gf) with the resting‐state EEG (rsEEG) complexity over different timescales and different electrodes was investigated. A 6‐min rsEEG blocks of eyes open were analyzed. The results of 119 subjects (57 men, mean age = 22.85 ± 2.84 years) were examined using multivariate multiscale sample entropy (mMSE) that quantifies changes in information richness of rsEEG in multiple data channels at fine and coarse timescales. gf factor was extracted from six intelligence tests. Partial least square regression analysis revealed that mainly predictors of the rsEEG complexity at coarse timescales in the frontoparietal network (FPN) and the temporo‐parietal complexities at fine timescales were relevant to higher gf. Sex differently affected the relationship between fluid intelligence and EEG complexity at rest. In men, gf was mainly positively related to the complexity at coarse timescales in the FPN. Furthermore, at fine and coarse timescales positive relations in the parietal region were revealed. In women, positive relations with gf were mostly observed for the overall and the coarse complexity in the FPN, whereas negative associations with gf were found for the complexity at fine timescales in the parietal and centro‐temporal region. These outcomes indicate that two separate time pathways (corresponding to fine and coarse timescales) used to characterize rsEEG complexity (expressed by mMSE features) are beneficial for effective information processing.
The impact of the Ebola crisis on mortality and welfare in Liberia
Authors: Da Costa Shaun M.
Published: August 2020

This study assesses the impact of Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak on individual and total welfare in Liberia during 2014/15. By combining mortality and household consumption data, it estimates how much individuals would be hypothetically willing to pay to avoid the EVD‐induced increase in age‐ and sex‐specific mortality rates. The results suggest that the total welfare loss associated with EVD‐related mortality ranges from $90 to $190 million, which is comparable to estimates based on the economic costs of EVD alone. In addition, the estimates lie between those derived from the cost‐of‐illness and value of statistical life approaches applied in previous works. This suggests that incorporating additional information on age‐ and sex‐specific mortality, as well as individual consumption levels, provides a more accurate estimation of the welfare loss due to EVD‐related mortality.
The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act evaluation study: Child and adolescent behavioral health service expenditures and utilization
Authors: Block Eryn Piper , Xu Haiyong , Azocar Francisca , Ettner Susan L.
Published: August 2020

This study explores possible associations of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) with child access to behavioral health (BH) services (preimplementation = 2008–2009, transition = 2010, and post = 2011–2013). The study sample included children aged 4–17 years in self‐insured “carve‐in” plans from large employers. In “carve‐ins,” BH and medical care are covered through the same insurance plan. The unit of analysis is the person‐month (N = 61,823,533). This study employs an interrupted time series model allowing for intercept and slope changes for the transition and postparity periods. Outcomes included total, plan and patient out‐of‐pocket (OOP) expenditures, and several categories of service utilization. Generalized estimating equations were used to account for clustering. There were significant increases in total and plan expenditures postparity. To illustrate, in July 2012, mean per‐member‐per‐month total expenditures were predicted to be $5.65 without parity but $8.72 with parity. Patient OOP costs did not change significantly. Significant overall increases were seen for utilization of most outpatient services but not intermediate or inpatient services. Our findings suggest that the introduction of MHPAEA was associated with an increase in specialty BH service access for children without a commensurate increase in financial burden for families.
Simple and complex carotid paragangliomas. Three decades of experience and literature review
Authors: Lozano Francisco S. , Muñoz Angel , de las Heras José A. , González‐Porras José R.
Published: August 2020

Background

Carotid paragangliomas are rare tumors. They are usually unique, non‐secreting, resectable, and benign. However, additional rare cases of complex tumors (bilateral, secretory, nonresectable, or malignant) complicate the management and final outcomes.

Methods

Records of paragangliomas from our hospital are reviewed. Criteria defining complex paragangliomas have been previously defined. These are compared with those of the simple group.

Results

Fifty patients, two groups: simple (n = 39) and complex (n = 11). The patients in the complex group were significantly younger (47.7 vs 63.8 years). Postoperative nerve complications (45.4% vs 6.3%) and mortality during follow‐up (27.3% vs 0%) were significantly more common in the complex group. Vascular complications (0% vs 3.1%) and early mortality (0%) were similarly in both groups.

Conclusions

Patients with complex carotid paragangliomas are heterogeneous. The former are younger, exhibit a high degree of diagnostic and therapeutic complexity, and have poorer morbidity and mortality. Surgical experience and interdisciplinary collaboration are essential.
Genome‐wide Association Study and Meta‐analysis on Alcohol‐Associated Liver Cirrhosis Identifies Genetic Risk Factors
Authors: Schwantes‐An Tae‐Hwi , Darlay Rebecca , Mathurin Philippe , Masson Steven , Liangpunsakul Suthat , Mueller Sebastian , Aithal Guruprasad P. , Eyer Florian , Gleeson Dermot , Thompson Andrew , Muellhaupt Beat , Stickel Felix , Soyka Michael , Goldman David , Liang Tiebing , Lumeng Lawrence , Pirmohamed Munir , Nalpas Bertrand , Jacquet Jean‐Marc , Moirand Romain , Nahon Pierre , Naveau Sylvie , Perney Pascal , Botwin Greg , Haber Paul S. , Seitz Helmut K. , Day Christopher P. , Foroud Tatiana M. , Daly Ann K. , Cordell Heather J. , Whitfield John B. , Morgan Timothy R. , Seth Devanshi ,   for the GenomALC Consortium
Published: August 2020

Background and Aims

Only a minority of heavy drinkers progress to alcohol‐associated cirrhosis (ALC). The aim of this study was to identify common genetic variants that underlie risk for ALC.

Approach and Results

We analyzed data from 1,128 subjects of European ancestry with ALC and 614 heavy‐drinking subjects without known liver disease from Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and three countries in Europe. A genome‐wide association study (GWAS) was performed, adjusting for principal components and clinical covariates (alcohol use, age, sex, body mass index, and diabetes). We validated our GWAS findings using UK Biobank. We then performed a meta‐analysis combining data from our study, the UK Biobank, and a previously published GWAS. Our GWAS found genome‐wide significant risk association of rs738409 in patatin‐like phospholipase domain containing 3 (PNPLA3) (odds ratio [OR] = 2.19 [G allele], P = 4.93 × 10−17) and rs4607179 near HSD17B13 (OR = 0.57 [C allele], P = 1.09 × 10−10) with ALC. Conditional analysis accounting for the PNPLA3 and HSD17B13 loci identified a protective association at rs374702773 in Fas‐associated factor family member 2 (FAF2) (OR = 0.61 [del(T) allele], P = 2.56 × 10−8) for ALC. This association was replicated in the UK Biobank using conditional analysis (OR = 0.79, P = 0.001). Meta‐analysis (without conditioning) confirmed genome‐wide significance for the identified FAF2 locus as well as PNPLA3 and HSD17B13. Two other previously known loci (SERPINA1 and SUGP1/TM6SF2) were also genome‐wide significant in the meta‐analysis. GeneOntology pathway analysis identified lipid droplets as the target for several identified genes. In conclusion, our GWAS identified a locus at FAF2 associated with reduced risk of ALC among heavy drinkers. Like the PNPLA3 and HSD17B13 gene products, the FAF2 product has been localized to fat droplets in hepatocytes.

Conclusions

Our genetic findings implicate lipid droplets in the biological pathway(s) underlying ALC.