bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Open and empathic personalities see two things at the same time: the relationship of big-five personality traits and cognitive empathy with mixed percepts during binocular rivalry
Authors: Koivisto Mika , Virkkala Maija , Puustinen Mika , Aarnio Jetta
Published: September 2021

Does our personality predict what we see? This question was studied in 100 university students with binocular rivalry paradigm by presenting incompatible images to each eye, allowing multiple interpretations of the same sensory input. During continuous binocular presentation, dominance of perception starts to fluctuate between the images. When neither of the images is fully suppressed, the two images combine into mixed percepts. We focused on the link between mixed percepts, big-five traits, and empathy. The results revealed that openness and agreeableness correlated with the occurrence of mixed percepts after the first dominant perception. However, these correlations of openness and agreeableness were mediated by cognitive empathy. In addition, openness had a direct association with reporting the initial percept in the onset of stimulation as a mixed percept, suggesting a mechanism that is separate from the one mediated by cognitive empathy. Overall, the results provide preliminary evidence suggesting that personality predicts what we see. Such individual differences in perceptual interpretations may be linked to both higher level cognitive mechanisms as well as lower level visual mechanisms.
A Biosemiotic Perspective on Reward-Based Animal Training Techniques
Authors: Lewis Amelia
Published: September 2021

In this paper, I examine the way humans interact with domestic companion animals, with a focus on ‘positive reward-based training’ methods, particularly for dogs. From a biosemiotic perspective, I discuss the role of animal training in today’s society and examine what binary reward- based reinforcement schedules communicate, semiotically. I also examine the extent to which reward-based training methods promote better welfare, when compared to the more traditional methods which rely on aversive stimuli and punishment, if and when they are relied upon excessively. I conclude that when used as the primary means of communication, they have the potential to be detrimental to animal welfare, because the underlying social signal is control and resource dominance. As an alternative view to behaviourist-based learning theory and conditioning, I outline how enactivist theories of cognition support a semiotic approach to interspecific human-animal communication. I therefore propose a move toward a dynamic semiosis and mutual understanding based upon Peirce’s phenomenology, resulting in a more balanced merging of Umwelten. The aim is to create rich and more complex semiospheres around humans and domestic animals, which allow for individual agency and autonomy.
New estimation method for periodic autoregressive time series of order 1 with additive noise
Authors: Żuławiński Wojciech , Wyłomańska Agnieszka
Published: September 2021

The periodic behavior of real data can be manifested in the time series or in its characteristics. One of the characteristics that often manifests the periodic behavior is the sample autocovariance function. In this case, the periodically correlated (PC) behavior is considered. One of the main models that exhibits PC property is the periodic autoregressive (PARMA) model that is considered as the generalization of the classical autoregressive moving average (ARMA) process. However, when one considers the real data, practically the observed trajectory corresponds to the “pure” model with the additional noise which is a result of the noise of the measurement device or other external forces. Thus, in this paper we consider the model that is a sum of the periodic autoregressive (PAR) time series and the additive noise with finite-variance distribution. We present the main properties of the considered model indicating its PC property. One of the main goals of this paper is to introduce the new estimation method for the considered model’s parameters. The novel algorithm takes under consideration the additive noise in the model and can be considered as the modification of the classical Yule–Walker algorithm that utilizes the autocovariance function. Here, we propose two versions of the new method, namely the classical and the robust ones. The effectiveness of the proposed methodology is verified by Monte Carlo simulations. The comparison with the classical Yule–Walker method is presented. The approach proposed in this paper is universal and can be applied to any finite-variance models with the additive noise.
Learning to Play the Piano Whilst Reading Music: Short-Term School-Based Piano Instruction Improves Memory and Word Recognition in Children
Authors: Price-Mohr Ruth , Price Colin
Published: September 2021

There is a substantial body of evidence that demonstrates links between language and music and between music and improved cognitive ability, particularly with regard to verbal and working memory, in both adults and children. However, there is often a mix of type of musical training and instrument used and use of musical notation. The research reported here uses a randomised controlled trial with 32 novice children, aged seven, learning to play the piano with both hands whilst reading music notation. The intervention was conducted in a school setting, each child receiving in total four hours of instruction. Results confirm previous findings that short-term music instruction improves working memory. Results also demonstrated that children with this musical training outperformed controls on a word identification measure. Overall, the results show evidence for a causal relationship between music learning and improvements in verbal skills. The significant differences occurred after only one term of instruction and were stable 3 months post-intervention.
Micro-mesoporous modified activated carbon from corn husks for removal of hexavalent chromium ions
Authors: Ammar Nabila S. , Fathy Nady A. , Ibrahim Hanan S. , Mousa Sahar M.
Published: September 2021

Modified activated carbon sorbents (ACP-Zn and ACP-Zn-Fe) had been prepared from the activation of corn husks precursor to increase the chemical activity of the resulting adsorbents by increasing the number of active functional groups and generation of micro-mesoporous structures. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) assessed the acidic surface properties of the prepared activated carbons that is due to the presence acidic functional groups such as –OH and –COOH which improves the removal efficiency of the produced sorbents. Textural characteristics revealed the generation of micro-mesoporous structures in ACP–Zn and ACP-Zn-Fe. Thus the combination of H3PO4 with Zn or Zn–Fe could enhance the mesoporosity with a considerable decrease in the adsorption of nitrogen. However, the formation of mesopores might be attributed to the template-like effects of the obtained Zn- of Zn-Fe compounds inside the carbon structure. These structures were employed as sorbents for removal of hexavalent chromium Cr(VI) ions from its aqueous solutions, and the removal efficiency reached ~ 86% for ACP-Zn-Fe and ~ 82% for ACP-Zn. The kinetic modeling studies revealed that the sorption process follows the pseudo-second-order model which indicates that the mechanism of process is chemisorptions. Freundlich, Langmuir and Dubinin–Radushkevich (D–R) models were used to express the experimental data. The isotherm modeling studies revealed that the sorption process was fit with both Freundlich and Langmuir models with maximum capacity 24.8 and 30.3 mg/g for ACP-Zn and ACP-Zn-Fe, respectively.
Warnings in early narrative assessment that might predict performance in residency: signal from an internal medicine residency program
Authors: Kelleher Matthew , Kinnear Benjamin , Sall Dana R. , Weber Danielle E. , DeCoursey Bailey , Nelson Jennifer , Klein Melissa , Warm Eric J. , Schumacher Daniel J.
Published: September 2021

Introduction Narrative assessment data are valuable in understanding struggles in resident performance. However, it remains unknown which themes in narrative data that occur early in training may indicate a higher likelihood of struggles later in training, allowing programs to intervene sooner.
Methods Using learning analytics, we identified 26 internal medicine residents in three cohorts that were below expected entrustment during training. We compiled all narrative data in the first 6 months of training for these residents as well as 13 typically performing residents for comparison. Narrative data were blinded for all 39 residents during initial phases of an inductive thematic analysis for initial coding.
Results Many similarities were identified between the two cohorts. Codes that differed between typical and lower entrusted residents were grouped into two types of themes: three explicit/manifest and three implicit/latent with six total themes. The explicit/manifest themes focused on specific aspects of resident performance with assessors describing 1) Gaps in attention to detail, 2) Communication deficits with patients, and 3) Difficulty recognizing the “big picture” in patient care. Three implicit/latent themes, focused on how narrative data were written, were also identified: 1) Feedback described as a deficiency rather than an opportunity to improve, 2) Normative comparisons to identify a resident as being behind their peers, and 3) Warning of possible risk to patient care.
Discussion Clinical competency committees (CCCs) usually rely on accumulated data and trends.
Virial clouds and rotational asymmetry in galactic haloes
Authors: Qadir Asghar , De Paolis Francesco
Published: September 2021

In 1995, it was suggested that some of the baryonic dark matter in galaxies may be in the form of molecular hydrogen clouds, and a mechanism for observing them had been given. In the same year, a novel method of seeing the clouds was proposed, that is to look for a temperature asymmetry in the cosmic microwave background towards the M31 galaxy, due to a “Doppler effect” induced by the M31 halo rotation. This temperature asymmetry has since been seen and confirmed in M31 and other galaxies, and used to study the rotation of galactic haloes and map their dynamics. It had been questioned whether such clouds could actually exist, and in response, the clouds were modeled and shown to be possible. It then becomes necessary to trace the evolution of those clouds from their formation to the modern day. Here, the development of the ideas is reviewed.
Evolution in Surgical Treatment of Vestibular Schwannomas
Authors: Tatagiba Marcos , Ebner Florian H. , Nakamura Taishi , Naros Georgios
Published: September 2021

Purpose of Review

Management of vestibular schwannomas (VSs) is multimodal and include watchful observation, radiation treatment, and surgery. Over the past decades, a shift in treatment strategy toward radiation treatment has gradually displaced surgery from the main treatment option for VS. In recent years, however, surgery has been further refined by developments of microsurgical and endoscopic techniques and advances in intraoperative application of neuroprotective drugs. This article presents outcomes of modern surgical treatment of VS in the era of radiosurgery and reviews recent published advancements relevant to VS management.

Recent Findings

Following VS surgery, excellent tumor resection rates and cranial nerve outcomes were achieved in a consecutive series of 572 adult patients with mean postoperative follow up of 4 years. Innovations in surgical technique include endoscopic technique as additional tool to microsurgery, exploration of semi-sitting position for large tumors, and intraoperative use of vasoactive agents as neuroprotective strategy.

Despite great developments in radiation treatment of VS, surgery remains the key solution for the majority of the cases in order to achieve cure of the disease, long-term tumor control, and preservation of cranial nerve function at long-term.
Pain Monitoring Using Heart Rate Variability and Photoplethysmograph-Derived Parameters by Binary Logistic Regression
Authors: Jhang D. F. , Chu Y. S. , Cai J. H. , Tai Y. Y. , Chuang C. C.
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To construct a pain classification model using binary logistic regression to calculate pain probability and monitor pain based on heart rate variability (HRV) and photoplethysmography (PPG) parameters.

Methods

Heat stimulation was used to simulate pain for modeling the pain generation process, and electrocardiography and PPG signals were recorded simultaneously. After signal analysis, statistical analysis was performed using SPSS to determine the parameters that were significant for pain. Thereafter, a pain classification model with HRV and PPG parameters was established using binary logistic regression.

Results

The sensitivity and specificity of the pain classification model were 60.0% and 72.0%, respectively. When pain occurred, the probability calculated using the pain classification model increased from < 50% to > 50%. When the pain was relieved, the probability decreased to < 50%. The probability of pain was consistent with the numeric rating scale value, which indicated that the model can correctly determine the presence of pain.

Conclusion

This pain classification model has sufficient robustness and adaptability to be applied to different healthy people for classification and monitoring. This model is helpful in establishing a real-time pain monitoring system to improve pain management for patients in the postoperative intensive care unit and patient-controlled analgesia and provide a reference for doctors regarding medication.
New Insight into the Relationships Between Structural and Ftir Spectroscopic Features of Kaolinites
Authors: Drits Victor A. , Zviagina Bella B. , Sakharov Boris A. , Dorzhieva Olga V. , Savichev Aleksandr T.
Published: September 2021

To resolve the existing ambiguities in the interpretation of the OH-stretching vibrations of kaolinites, relationships were, for the first time, established between the structural and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic features for a set of kaolinite samples which differed in terms of their relative amounts of coexisting high- and low-ordered phases. For this purpose, a representative collection of kaolinites differing in origin, particle size, and degree of disorder was studied by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and FTIR spectroscopy. Modeling of the experimental XRD patterns based on the orthogonal layer unit cell having a mirror plane showed each sample to be a mixture of nearly defect-free high-ordered (HOK) and low-ordered (LOK) kaolinite phases, with HOK varying from 86 to 4%. The wavenumbers, heights, areas, and full widths at half-maximum (FWHM) were determined for the OH-stretching bands at ~3697 (ν1), ~3670 (ν2), ~3652 (ν3), and 3620 cm–1 (ν4) by decomposition and fitting of the FTIR spectra. The FWHM(ν1)/FWHM(ν4) and FWHM(ν3)/FWHM(ν2) values were related linearly to the HOK content, which may be associated with the in-phase and out-of-phase character of the corresponding pairs of vibrations, respectively. A novel interpretation was suggested for the variations in the relative integrated intensities of the OH bands with the amount of the HOK phase. The intensity distribution of the ν2 and ν3 bands is controlled by the triclinic structure symmetry in the defect-free kaolinite and the mirror symmetry of the layers in low-ordered structures, in agreement with the observed evolution of the corresponding band intensities. The ν1 and ν2 band positions for the low-ordered samples are within the wavenumber range for the high-ordered samples. In contrast, the ν3 and ν4 band positions for the low-ordered samples are shifted toward higher wavenumbers, indicating that some of the low-ordered kaolinites should contain dickite-like structural fragments distributed among kaolinite layers.
Eyes, ears, or nose? Comparison of three non-invasive methods to survey wolf recolonisation
Authors: Cozzi Gabriele , Hollerbach Laura , Suter Stefan M. , Reiners Tobias E. , Kunz Florin , Tettamanti Federico , Ozgul Arpat
Published: September 2021

The development and use of cost-effective and appropriate survey methods to assess species distribution and to monitor range expansion and contraction of wild populations is crucial due to the limited financial resources for conservation. Of particular importance, yet little studied, is the ability to collect information before a wild population is well established, i.e. at the early stages of recolonisation. During 2018 and 2019, we used camera traps, audio recorders, and scat detection dogs simultaneously to investigate composition, detection probability, and territorial extent of a pack of wolves in the Swiss Alps. We compared the efficacy of these survey methods by assessing sampling effort, data obtained, and costs. We show that, under the presented setup, camera traps and scat detection dogs substantially outperformed audio recorders in detecting wolves, representing the packs’ territorial extent, and revealing the number of adult wolves. The detection dogs did not detect pups but, unlike the other methods, allowed the identification of single individuals. The use of four camera traps during 13 weeks, a 24-km-long transect walked with the detection dog, or the use of one audio recorder during 148 weeks were necessary to obtain a comparable wolf detection probability. Our results show that no single method was able to return all information that we hoped to collect. Comprehensive and cost-effective information was best obtained by combining data from camera traps and detection dogs. We suggest both methods to be simultaneously used to successfully investigate wolf recolonisation into historical range.
Upper instrumented vertebra–femoral angle and correlation with proximal junctional kyphosis in adult spinal deformity
Authors: Wu Hao-Hua , Chou Dean , Hindoyan Kevork , Guinn Jeremy , Rivera Joshua , Duan Pingguo , Wang Minghao , Xi Zhuo , Li Bo , Lee Andrew , Burch Shane , Mummaneni Praveen , Berven Sigurd
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Although matching lumbar lordosis (LL) with pelvic incidence (PI) is an important surgical goal for adult spinal deformity (ASD), there is concern that overcorrection may lead to proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK). We introduce the upper instrumented vertebra–femoral angle (UIVFA) as a measure of appropriate postoperative position in the setting of lower thoracic to pelvis surgical correction for patients with sagittal imbalance. We hypothesize that a more posterior UIV position in relation to the center of the femoral head is associated with an increased risk of PJK given compensatory hyperkyphosis above the UIV.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, adult patients undergoing lower thoracic (T9–T12) to pelvis correction of ASD with a minimum of 2-year follow-up were included. UIVFA was measured as the angle subtended by a line from the UIV centroid to the femoral head center to the vertical axis. Patients who developed PJK and those who did not were compared with preoperative and postoperative UIVFA as well as change between postoperative and preoperative UIVFA (deltaUIVFA).

Results

Of 119 patients included with an average 3.6-year follow-up, 51 (42.9%) had PJK and 24 (20.2%) had PJF. Patients with PJK had significantly higher postoperative UIVFA (12.6 ± 4.8° vs. 9.4 ± 6.6°, p = 0.04), deltaUIVFA (6.1 ± 7.6° vs. 2.1 ± 5.6°, p < 0.01), postoperative pelvic tilt (27.3 ± 9.2 vs. 23.3 ± 11, p = 0.04), postoperative lumbar lordosis (47.7 ± 13.9° vs. 42.4 ± 13.1, p = 0.04) and postoperative thoracic kyphosis (44.9 ± 13.2 vs. 31.6 ± 18.8) than patients without PJK. With multivariate logistic regression, postoperative UIVFA and deltaUIVFA were found to be independent risk factors for PJK (p < 0.05). DeltaUIVFA was found to be an independent risk factor for PJF (p < 0.05). A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve for UIVFA as a predictor for PJK was established with an area under the curve of 0.67 (95% CI 0.59–0.76). Per the Youden index, the optimal UIVFA cut-off value is 11.5 degrees.

Conclusion

The more posterior the UIV is from the femoral head center after lower thoracic to pelvis surgical correction for ASD, the more patients are at risk for PJK. The greater the magnitude of posterior translation of the UIV from the femoral head center from preop to postop, the greater the likelihood for PJF.
The Epistemology of Reading and Interpretation
Authors: van Woudenberg René
Published: September 2021

Reading and textual interpretation are ordinary human activities, performed inside as well as outside academia, but precisely how they function as unique sources of knowledge is not well understood. In this book, René van Woudenberg explores the nature of reading and how it is distinct from perception and (attending to) testimony, which are two widely acknowledged knowledge sources. After distinguishing seven accounts of interpretation, van Woudenberg discusses the question of whether all reading inevitably involves interpretation, and shows that although reading and interpretation often go together, they are distinct activities. He goes on to argue that both reading and interpretation can be paths to realistically conceived truth, and explains the conditions under which we are justified in believing that they do indeed lead us to the truth. Along the way, he offers clear and novel analyses of reading, meaning, interpretation, and interpretative knowledge.
The Ecology of War and Peace
Authors: Cusato Eliana
Published: September 2021

The connection between ecology and conflict has been the object of extensive study by political scientists and economists. From the contribution of natural resource 'scarcity' to violent unrest and armed conflict; to resource 'abundance' as an incentive for initiating and prolonging armed struggles; to dysfunctional resource management and environmental degradation as obstacles to peacebuilding, this literature has exerted a huge influence upon academic discussions and policy developments. While international law is often invoked as the solution to the socio-environmental challenges faced by conflict-affected countries, its relationship with the ecology of war and peace remains undertheorised. Drawing upon environmental justice perspectives and other theoretical traditions, the book unpacks and problematizes some of the assumptions that underlie the legal field. Through an analysis of the practice of international courts, the UN Security Council, and Truth Commissions, it shows how international law silences and even normalizes forms of structural and slow environmental violence.
The Enablers
Authors: Kellerman Barbara
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic will forever be remembered as a pivotal event in American history. Written by one of the world's foremost experts on leadership and followership, this book centers on the first six months of the pandemic and the crises that ran rampant. The chapters focus less on the former president, Donald Trump, than on his followers: on people complicit in his miserable mismanagement of the crisis in public health. Barbara Kellerman provides clear and compelling evidence that Trump was not entirely to blame for everything that went wrong. Many others were responsible including his base, party, administration, inner circle, Republican elites, members of the media, and even medical experts. Far too many surrendered to the president's demands, despite it being obvious his leadership was fatally flawed. The book testifies to the importance of speaking truth to power, and a willingness to take risks properly to serve the public interest.
Global COVID‐19 Transmission and Mortality—Influence of Human Development, Climate, and Climate Variability on Early Phase of the Pandemic
Authors: Thazhathedath Hariharan Hariprasad , Surendran Anish Thekkumkara , Haridasan Retheesh Kollerazhikathu , Venkitaraman Sriram , Robert Dennis , Narayanan Sorna P. , Mammen Pratheesh C. , Siddharth Selva Raja , Kuriakose Sekhar L.
Published: September 2021

Many of the respiratory pathogens show seasonal patterns and association with environmental factors. In this article, we conducted a cross‐sectional analysis of the influence of environmental factors, including climate variability, along with development indicators on the differential global spread and fatality of COVID‐19 during its early phase. Global climate data we used are monthly averaged gridded data sets of temperature, humidity and temperature anomaly. We used Human Development Index (HDI) to account for all nation wise socioeconomic factors that can affect the reporting of cases and deaths and build a stepwise negative binomial regression model. In the absence of a development indicator, all environmental variables excluding the specific humidity have a significant association with the spread and mortality of COVID‐19. Temperature has a weak negative association with COVID‐19 mortality. However, HDI is shown to confound the effect of temperature on the reporting of the disease. Temperature anomaly, which is being regarded as a global warming indicator, is positively associated with the pandemic's spread and mortality. Viewing newer infectious diseases like SARS‐CoV‐2 from the perspective of climate variability has a lot of public health implications, and it necessitates further research.
Thermal and Physical Properties of Deccan Basalt and Neoarchean Basement Cores From a Deep Scientific Borehole in the Koyna−Warna Seismogenic Region, Deccan Volcanic Province, Western India: Implications on Thermal Modeling and Seismogenesis
Authors: Ray Labani , Gupta Ravindra Kumar , Chopra Nishu , Gopinadh Dhulipudi , Dwivedi Sujeet Kumar
Published: September 2021

We have investigated 78 core samples of basaltic trap and Neoarchean basement in the laboratory from a 981 m deep scientific borehole KBH‐05, in the Koyna−Warna seismic zone, in order to characterize their thermal and physical properties and present a probable crustal thermal model. The Koyna−Warna, located in the Deccan Volcanic Province (DVP), is globally one of the most prominent Reservoir Triggered Seismicity (RTS) regions. Thermal conductivity, density, and porosity vary widely (1.0–1.7 Wm−1K−1, 2,400–3,000 kg m−3, 0.2%–10%) for the basalt due to their lithological heterogeneities, i.e., massive/amygdaloidal/vesicular. In comparison, the basement, which dominantly consists of gneiss/migmatite gneiss (granodiorite to tonalite to quartz monzodiorite in composition) and amphibolite, have shown a wider range in thermal conductivity (2.2–3.4 Wm−1K−1) but constricted range in density and porosity (2,600–2,800 kg m−3, 0.01%–0.15%). Based on gamma and sonic logs, as well as radioelements (Th, U, K), the 499 m thick basaltic trap can be divided into two thick layers (325, 174 m) and five sub‐layers, which can be correlated with different basaltic formations. Similarly, the underlying basement can also be divided into two layers (93, 384 m). The upper basement layer has two times higher concentrations of Th and U than the lower layer, with heat production of 2.0, 0.8 μWm−3. Further, the study provides a robust temperature estimate of 165°C–250°C at 10 km depth, considerably higher than reported earlier for the DVP, and reveals that in addition to thermal parameters, RTS also plays an important role in the seismogenesis of the region.
Spectral Properties of Anhydrous Carbonates and Nitrates
Authors: Bishop J. L. , King S. J. , Lane M. D. , Brown A. J. , Lafuente B. , Hiroi T. , Roberts R. , Swayze G. A. , Lin J.‐F. , Sánchez Román M.
Published: September 2021

The spectral properties of anhydrous carbonates and nitrates are dominated by strong, sharp vibrational bands due to the CO32− and NO3− anions observed as absorption bands in near‐infrared spectra, as Reststrahlen features or absorption bands in mid‐IR spectra, depending on particle size, and as peaks in Raman spectra. These spectral features provide a reliable means to identify the occurrence of carbonates and nitrates on planetary surfaces, which in turn contribute to our understanding of the environment and chemistry of planetary bodies. Four modes occur for carbonates and nitrates due to symmetric stretching (ν1), out‐of‐plane bending (ν2), asymmetric stretching (ν3), and in‐plane bending (ν4). The vibrational absorptions of these spectral features vary with the mineral structure and the size of the cation, where the calcite‐, dolomite‐, aragonite‐, and alkali‐type structures result in different spectral features. Mid‐IR bands for carbonates and nitrates occur from 1,040 to 1,105 cm−1 for ν1, from 810 to 906 cm−1 for ν2, from 1,275 to 1,590 cm−1 for ν3, and from 670 to 756 cm−1 for ν4. In Raman spectra the carbonate and nitrate absorptions are observed near 1,050–1,080 cm−1 for ν1, near 880 cm−1 for ν2, near 1,415–1,430 cm−1 for ν3, and near 680–700 cm−1 for ν4. NIR spectra include bands due to overtones and combinations at ∼1.75, 1.9, 2.0, 2.3, 2.5, 3.4, 4.0, and 4.6 μm for carbonates and ∼1.8, 2.0, 2.2, 2.4, 2.6, 3.5, 4.1, and 4.8 μm for nitrates. This study provides data for remote determination of carbonate and nitrate chemistry and will enable better characterization of these minerals on planetary bodies including Mars, Ceres, and Bennu.
Arctic Sea Ice Response to Flooding of the Snow Layer in Future Warming Scenarios
Authors: Pauling Andrew G. , Bitz Cecilia M.
Published: September 2021

The projected decline in Arctic sea ice extent as the Earth warms in response to increased greenhouse gas concentrations will occur in conjunction with increased precipitation in the Arctic, and more of that precipitation is projected to fall as rain, especially in autumn and early winter. A recently proposed method of offsetting the decline in Arctic sea ice extent would pump seawater on the sea ice surface. Either way, we envision the liquid water first infiltrating the overlying snow layer creating slush. Winter conditions would then freeze the slush to directly thicken the ice. The net reduction in insulation would increase basal growth, adding an indirect thickening effect. Simulating the response to augmented snow layer flooding gives insights that are relevant in the future Arctic with or without the implementation of geoengineering. We use a hierarchy of models to show that flooding snow on sea ice is most effective at thickening Arctic sea ice when flooding begins early in the sea ice growth season. For the geoengineering scheme to be most effective, the pumps must be deployed almost immediately, while there is still a sufficient area of sea ice over which to flood, and must continue for decades. Sea ice loss would be best mitigated if flooding is combined with reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the increase in rainfall over the Arctic in the 21st century is unlikely to offset a substantial portion of the loss due to warming.
Heat Pumps Can Lower Home Emissions, but Not Everywhere
Authors: Rocheleau Jackie
Published: September 2021

A new study shows that in the right places, heat pumps can help homeowners lower greenhouse gas emissions, save on heating and cooling costs, and promote public health.
Measurability of the Nonlinear Response of Electron Distribution Function to Chorus Emissions in the Earth's Radiation Belt
Authors: Hanzelka M. , Santolík O. , Omura Y. , Kolmašová I.
Published: September 2021

We conduct test particle simulations to study the perturbations in a hot electron velocity distribution caused by a rising chorus element propagating parallel to the ambient magnetic field in the Earth's outer radiation belt. The wavefield is constructed from the nonlinear growth theory of chorus emissions of Omura (2021, https://doi.org/10.1186/s40623-021-01380-w), with additional considerations about saturation and propagation of the transverse resonant current being applied to model the subpacket structure. Using Liouville's theorem, we trace electrons back in time to reconstruct the evolution of electron velocity distribution at the magnetic equator. The electromagnetic hole created by nonlinear trapping and transport effects appears as a depression in the velocity distribution, aligned with the resonance velocity curve. We analyze the decrease of particle flux in this depression and estimate the energy resolution, pitch angle resolution, time resolution and geometric factor of particle analyzers needed to observe the perturbation. We conclude that particle detectors on current or recently operating spacecraft are always lacking in at least one of these parameters, which explains the missing direct observations of sharp phase space density depressions during chorus‐electron nonlinear resonant interaction. However, with a dedicated experiment and appropriate measurement strategy, such observations are within the possibilities of the current technology. Similarity of the simulated density perturbation and a step function mathematical model is used to draw an analogy between the backward wave oscillator regime of chorus generation and the nonlinear growth theory.
Mechanism of Atmospheric Diabatic Heating Effect on the Intensity of Zonal Shear Line Over the Tibetan Plateau in Boreal Summer
Authors: Yao Xiuping , Liu Qiaohua , Zhang Shuo , Ma Jiali
Published: September 2021

The zonal shear line (ZSL) over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) is one of the most crucial synoptic systems inducing precipitation over the TP in boreal summer. However, few studies have comprehensively explored the thermal mechanism of the intensity evolution of the ZSL. In this study, the mechanism of the atmospheric diabatic heating (hereafter referred to as diabatic heating) effect on the intensity of the ZSL was explored by the methods of composite and diagnostic analysis. Based on the fifth generation European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts atmospheric reanalysis of the global climate hourly data sets from June to August during 1980–2019, 11 cases of the ZSL were selected by using the objective identification method. Results suggest that a close relationship exists between the ZSL’s intensity and the 10‐h‐earlier vertically integrated diabatic heating , with a high correlation coefficient of 0.81. The intensity of  peaks at around 13 LST (Local Solar Time) within a day. The diabatic heating rate Q reaches the maximum values at 350 hPa. The vertical transport of temperature is the main contributor to the intensity of Q during the intensity evolution of the ZSL. The vertically non‐uniform diabatic heating effect is the primary mechanism for the intensity evolution of the ZSL. When the vertically non‐uniform diabatic heating near the ZSL enhances (weakens), it will be favorable (unfavorable) to enhance the ZSL’s intensity.
Hydrological Connectivity Controls Magnitude and Distribution of Sediment Deposition Within the Deltaic Islands of Wax Lake Delta, LA, USA
Authors: Olliver E. A. , Edmonds D. A.
Published: September 2021

Relative sea‐level rise in the coming century will increase the risk of flooding and shoreline retreat on most major river deltas. River deltas can counteract flooding and shoreline retreat by depositing sediment on their surface. Yet, it is unclear what processes influence sedimentation and its variability on deltaic surfaces. Towards this end, we conducted a numerical modeling study in Delft3D to understand how floods, tides, and vegetation affect sedimentation rates and their spatial variability on islands in a deltaic system. Our experiments use a fully calibrated and validated hydrodynamic model of Wax Lake Delta, LA, USA. We analyzed eight numerical experiments that include a control simulation with no floods, tides, or vegetation, and seven simulations where we add in floods, tides, and vegetation. Our results clearly show that floods and tides have opposing effects. Compared to the control, floods introduce more sediment and increase the mean sedimentation rate, whereas, tides spread sediment over a larger area and decrease the mean sedimentation rate. Vegetation has a negligible effect on mean sedimentation rates but does shift sedimentation closer to the shoreline and to higher elevations. Overall, the amount of sedimentation on an island depends on its hydrological connectivity with the surrounding distributary channels. These results show that hydrologically well‐connected deltaic islands subject to tidal and riverine flooding aggrade their surfaces more evenly, which may be ideal for preventing inundation from relative sea‐level rise.
The postnatal leptin surge in mice is variable in both time and intensity and reflects nutritional status
Authors: Skowronski Alicja A. , Shaulson Evan D. , Leibel Rudolph L. , LeDuc Charles A.
Published: September 2021

Background/objectives

The murine postnatal leptin surge occurs within the first 4 weeks of life and is critical for neuronal projection development within hypothalamic feeding circuits. Here we describe the influence of nutritional status on the timing and magnitude of the postnatal leptin surge in mice.

Methods

Plasma leptin concentrations were measured 1–3 times per week for the first 4 weeks of life in C57BL/6J pups reared in litters adjusted to 3 (small), 7–8 (normal), or 11–12 (large) pups per dam fed breeder chow or raised in litters of 7–8 by dams fed high-fat diet (HFD) ad libitum starting either prior to conception or at parturition.

Results

Mice raised in small litters become fatter than pups raised in either normal or large litters. The leptin surge in small litter pups starts earlier, lasts longer, and is dramatically larger in magnitude compared to normal litter pups, even when leptin concentrations are normalized to fat mass. In mice reared in large litters, weight gain is diminished and the surge is both significantly delayed and lower in magnitude compared to control pups. Pups reared by HFD-fed dams (starting preconception or at parturition) are fatter and have augmented leptin surge magnitude compared to pups suckled by chow-fed dams. Surge timing varies depending upon nutritional status of the pup; the source of the surge is primarily subcutaneous adipose tissue. At peak leptin surge, within each group, fat mass and plasma leptin are uncorrelated; in comparison with adults, pups overproduce leptin relative to fat mass. Plasma leptin elevation persists longer than previously described; at postnatal day 27 mice continue overproducing leptin relative to fat mass.

Conclusions

In mice, small litter size and maternal HFD feeding during the perinatal period augment the plasma leptin surge whereas large litter size is associated with a delayed surge of reduced magnitude.
Level of systolic blood pressure within the normal range and risk of cardiovascular events in the absence of risk factors in Chinese
Authors: Ji Chunpeng , Wang Na , Shi Jihong , Huang Zhe , Chen Shuohua , Wang Guodong , Wu Shouling , Jonas Jost B.
Published: September 2021

The risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) at currently defined normal systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels in individuals without CVD risk factors is not well examined. We evaluated whether higher systolic blood pressure within the range considered normal is associated with a higher CVD risk in Chinese without traditional CVD risk factors. The community-based study included 25,529 individuals (mean age:47.3 ± 12.3 years;range:18–95 years) with a baseline SBP of 90–129 mmHg, who were free of CVD and traditional CVD risk factors, and who were re-examined in biennial intervals. During a mean follow-up of 10.6 ± 1.49 years (maximum. 11.5 years), 847 CVD events occurred. CVD incidence per 1000 person-years increased with higher baseline SBP levels (SBP,90–99 mmHg:1.45;100–109 mmHg:2.15;110–119 mmHg:3.06; and 120–129 mmHg:3.80). After adjusting for CVD risk factors, the categorical Cox regression suggested that the CVD risk was not statistically significant for study participants with a baseline SBP level of 100–109 mmHg, 110–119 mmHg, and 120–129 mmHg compared with those with a baseline SBP level of 90–99 mmHg. If CVD risk factors including blood pressure categories which developed during follow-up were included in a time-dependent Cox regression analysis, the normal baseline SBP was still not associated with incident CVDs. A SBP between 90 and 129 mmHg was not associated with an increased CVD risk in a healthy population.
Biomimetic cell-actuated artificial muscle with nanofibrous bundles
Authors: Jang Yongwoo , Kim Sung Min , Kim Eunyoung , Lee Dong Yeop , Kang Tong Mook , Kim Seon Jeong
Published: September 2021

Biohybrid artificial muscle produced by integrating living muscle cells and their scaffolds with free movement in vivo is promising for advanced biomedical applications, including cell-based microrobotic systems and therapeutic drug delivery systems. Herein, we provide a biohybrid artificial muscle constructed by integrating living muscle cells and their scaffolds, inspired by bundled myofilaments in skeletal muscle. First, a bundled biohybrid artificial muscle was fabricated by the integration of skeletal muscle cells and hydrophilic polyurethane (HPU)/carbon nanotube (CNT) nanofibers into a fiber shape similar to that of natural skeletal muscle. The HPU/CNT nanofibers provided a stretchable basic backbone of the 3-dimensional fiber structure, which is similar to actin-myosin scaffolds. The incorporated skeletal muscle fibers contribute to the actuation of biohybrid artificial muscle. In fact, electrical field stimulation reversibly leads to the contraction of biohybrid artificial muscle. Therefore, the current development of cell-actuated artificial muscle provides great potential for energy delivery systems as actuators for implantable medibot movement and drug delivery systems. Moreover, the innervation of the biohybrid artificial muscle with motor neurons is of great interest for human-machine interfaces.
C-type lectin receptor Dectin3 deficiency balances the accumulation and function of FoxO1-mediated LOX-1+ M-MDSCs in relieving lupus-like symptoms
Authors: Li Dan , Lu Li , Kong Wei , Xia Xiaoyu , Pan Yuchen , Li Jingman , Wang Jiali , Wang Tingting , Liang Jun , Dou Huan , Hou Yayi
Published: September 2021

Recent studies indicate that Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) can function as the signal of pattern recognition receptors, which play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of the autoimmune disease. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a classic autoimmune disease. Previous reports mainly focused on the potential role of TLRs in regulating the development of SLE, but little is known about the role of CLRs in the progression of SLE. Our previous studies showed that the inflammation-mediated accumulation of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) including granulocytic (G-MDSCs) and monocytic (M-MDSCs) participated in the pathogenesis of lupus. Mice deficient in Card9 (the downstream molecule of CLRs) were more susceptible to colitis-associated cancer via promoting the expansion of MDSCs. Whether the abnormal activation of CLRs regulates the expansion of MDSCs to participate in the pathogenesis of lupus remains unknown. In the present study, the expressions of CLRs were examined in both SLE patients and mouse models, revealing the expression of Dectin3 was positively correlated with SLEDAI. Dectin3 deficiency retarded the lupus-like disease by regulating the expansion and function of MDSCs. The mechanistic analysis revealed that Dectin3 deficiency promoted FoxO1-mediated apoptosis of MDSCs. Syk-Akt1-mediated nuclear transfer of FoxO1 increased in Dectin3-deficient MDSCs. Notedly, the accumulation of M-MDSCs mainly decreased in Dectin3−/− lupus mice, and the nuclear transfer of FoxO1 negatively correlated with the expression of LOX-1 on M-MDSCs. The silencing of FoxO1 expression in Dectin3−/− mice promoted the expansion of LOX-1+ M-MDSCs in vivo, and LOX-1+ M-MDSCs increased the differentiation of Th17 cells. Both LOX-1 expression on M-MDSCs and Dectin3 expression on MDSCs increased in patients with SLE. These data indicated that increased LOX-1+ M-MDSCs were related to the exacerbation of SLE development and might be potential target cells for the treatment of SLE.
DUSP6 expression is associated with osteoporosis through the regulation of osteoclast differentiation via ERK2/Smad2 signaling
Authors: Zhang Boya , Yuan Putao , Xu Guang , Chen Zhijun , Li Zhifei , Ye Huali , Wang Jiying , Shi Peihua , Sun Xuewu
Published: September 2021

Osteoporosis-related fractures, such as femoral neck and vertebral fractures, are common in aged people, resulting in increased disability rate and health-care costs. Thus, it is of great importance to clarify the mechanism of osteoclast-related osteoporosis and find effective ways to avoid its complication. In this study, gene expression profile analysis and real-time polymerase chain reaction revealed that DUSP6 expression was suppressed in human and mice osteoporosis cases. In vitro experiments confirmed that DUSP6 overexpression prevented osteoclastogenesis, whereas inhibition of DUSP6 by small interference RNA or with a chemical inhibitor, (E/Z)-BCI, had the opposite effect. (E/Z)-BCl significantly accelerated the bone loss process in vivo by enhancing osteoclastogenesis. Bioinformatics analyses and in vitro experiments indicated that miR-181a was an upstream regulator of DUSP6. Moreover, miR-181a positively induced the differentiation and negatively regulated the apoptosis of osteoclasts via DUSP6. Furthermore, downstream signals by ERK2 and SMAD2 were also found to be involved in this process. Evaluation of ERK2-deficiency bone marrow-derived macrophages confirmed the role of ERK2 signaling in the DUSP6-mediated osteoclastogenesis. Additionally, immunoprecipitation assays confirmed that DUSP6 directly modified the phosphorylation status of SMAD2 and the subsequent nuclear transportation of NFATC1 to regulate osteoclast differentiation. Altogether, this study demonstrated for the first time the role of miRNA-181a/DUSP6 in the progression of osteoporosis via the ERK2 and SMAD2 signaling pathway. Hence, DUSP6 may represent a novel target for the treatment of osteoclast-related diseases in the future.
Dendritic cells in cancer immunology
Authors: Murphy Theresa L. , Murphy Kenneth M.
Published: September 2021

The clinical success of immune checkpoint therapy (ICT) has produced explosive growth in tumor immunology research because ICT was discovered through basic studies of immune regulation. Much of the current translational efforts are aimed at enhancing ICT by identifying therapeutic targets that synergize with CTLA4 or PD1/PD-L1 blockade and are solidly developed on the basis of currently accepted principles. Expanding these principles through continuous basic research may help broaden translational efforts. With this mindset, we focused this review on three threads of basic research directly relating to mechanisms underlying ICT. Specifically, this review covers three aspects of dendritic cell (DC) biology connected with antitumor immune responses but are not specifically oriented toward therapeutic use. First, we review recent advances in the development of the cDC1 subset of DCs, identifying important features distinguishing these cells from other types of DCs. Second, we review the antigen-processing pathway called cross-presentation, which was discovered in the mid-1970s and remains an enigma. This pathway serves an essential in vivo function unique to cDC1s and may be both a physiologic bottleneck and therapeutic target. Finally, we review the longstanding field of helper cells and the related area of DC licensing, in which CD4 T cells influence the strength or quality of CD8 T cell responses. Each topic is connected with ICT in some manner but is also a fundamental aspect of cell-mediated immunity directed toward intracellular pathogens.