bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geochemical characteristics of Early Cretaceous marine oil shale from the Changshe Mountain area in the northern Qiangtang Basin, Tibet: Implications for palaeoweathering, provenance, tectonic setting, and organic matter accumulation
Authors: Zeng Shengqiang , Wang Jian , Chen Wenbin , Fu Xiugen , Feng Xinglei , Song Chunyan , Wang Dong , Sun Wei
Published: July 2019

The Early Cretaceous Shengli River–Changshe Mountain marine oil shale belt, located in the northern Qiangtang Basin, Tibet, is estimated to be the largest marine oil shale resource in China. However, its palaeoweathering, provenance, and tectonic setting during the depositional history have received little interest. In this paper, 19 outcrop marine oil shale samples from the ChangsheMountain (CSM) area were studied to investigate the provenance, palaeoclimate, palaeoweathering, and tectonic setting during the marine oil shale deposition. The total organic carbon and organic sulphur contents of the CSM oil shales range from 2.2% to 13.44% and 0.19% to 1.08%, respectively. The CSM oil shale samples contain abundant carbonate (e.g., calcite and dolomite), quartz, and clay minerals. The clay minerals of the CSM oil shale samples is dominated by illite and then by smectite. Other minerals, including haematite, apatite, pyrite, baryte, and celestite, were also identified by scanning electron microscope–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometer. The total rare earth element (∑REE) contents of the oil shales range from 9.01 to 105.96 ppm (average 57.56 ppm), close to the average REE contents of U.S. coals. The REE contents in oil shale samples are mainly controlled by terrigenous input. The CSM oil shales show LREE‐enriched, HREE‐depleted, with the LREE/HREE ratios ranging from 5.12 to 10.18, negative Eu anomalies (0.56–0.84) and slightly negative Ce anomalies (0.87–1.05). The chemical index of alteration values of the CSM oil shales range from 67 to 76 (average 73), indicating a moderate chemical weathering condition. Sr/Cu and Rb/Sr ratios suggest the CSM oil shales were mainly deposited under a warm and humid climate regime. Sr/Ba ratios, ranging from 0.54 to 7.84, suggest a palaeoenvironment with fluctuant salinity. Major element, trace element, and REE relationships indicate that the CSM oil shales are mainly from the felsic and intermediate igneous rocks. The REE distribution patterns of the CSM oil shales are similar to the Late Triassic Nadi Kangri felsic volcanic rocks in the Qiangtang Basin, indicating that the CSM oil shale may be derived from the Late Triassic volcanic rocks and the oil shales were mainly formed in rift tectonic setting. Favourable preservation condition (e.g., warmer palaeoclimate, higher palaeosalinity, and dysoxic to anoxic water column environment) could be the main controlling factor for organic matter accumulation.
Functional expression of electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransporter 1 (NBCe1) in mouse cortical astrocytes is dependent on S255‐257 and regulated by mTOR
Authors: Khakipoor Shokoufeh , Giannaki Marina , Theparambil Shefeeq M. , Zecha Jana , Küster Bernhard , Heermann Stephan , Deitmer Joachim W. , Roussa Eleni
Published: July 2019

The electrogenic sodium bicarbonate cotransporter 1, NBCe1 (SLC4A4), is the major bicarbonate transporter expressed in astrocytes. It is highly sensitive for bicarbonate and the main regulator of intracellular, extracellular, and synaptic pH, thereby modulating neuronal excitability. However, despite these essential functions, the molecular mechanisms underlying NBCe1‐mediated astrocytic response to extracellular pH changes are mostly unknown. Using primary mouse cortical astrocyte cultures, we investigated the effect of long‐term extracellular metabolic alkalosis on regulation of NBCe1 and elucidated the underlying molecular mechanisms by immunoblotting, biotinylation of surface proteins, intracellular H+ recording using the H+‐sensitive dye 2′,7′‐bis‐(carboxyethyl)‐5‐(and‐6)‐carboxyfluorescein, and phosphoproteomic analysis. The results showed significant downregulation of NBCe1 activity following metabolic alkalosis without influencing protein abundance or surface expression of NBCe1. During alkalosis, the rate of intracellular H+ changes upon challenging NBCe1 was decreased in wild‐type astrocytes, but not in cortical astrocytes from NBCe1‐deficient mice. Alkalosis‐induced decrease of NBCe1 activity was rescued after activation of mTOR signaling. Moreover, mass spectrometry revealed constitutively phosphorylated S255‐257 and mutational analysis uncovered these residues being crucial for NBCe1 transport activity. Our results demonstrate a novel mTOR‐regulated mechanism by which NBCe1 functional expression is regulated. Such mechanism likely applies not only for NBCe1 in astrocytes, but in epithelial cells as well.
Primary care reforms in managing chronic diseases in Xiamen, China: A tentative assessment
Authors: Zeng Yanbing , Yuan Zhipeng , Chen Lele , Wu Jielong , Chen Fan , Fang Ya
Published: July 2019

Background

The primary care reform developed in Xiamen City stood out among the dozens of pilot reforms conducted in China. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the reform.

Methods

The data were collected from the Annual Statistical Report on Xiamen's Hospitals and face‐to‐face questionnaire interviews among physicians (n = 107) and community members (n = 399). Binary logistic regression was performed to analyze the factors influencing the community members' preference for treatment in community health centers (CHCs).

Results

The drug cost declined nearly 3.0% in hospitals, and outpatient visits increased more quickly (27.1%) in CHCs. A total of 86.2% of community members preferred to receive treatment for slight illness or chronic diseases in CHCs, and 77.9% of them were willing to be referred to CHCs during the recovery period. Patients who were managed by the general practice (GP) team showed higher percentages in examining and controlling blood pressure and blood glucose.

Conclusion

The reform in Xiamen was easily accepted by physicians and community members. The reform had rendered initial achievements in reducing drug income in hospitals, increasing outpatient visits in CHCs, seeking health care in CHCs, and controlling blood pressure and glucose for patients with chronic diseases.
Long survival of patients with metastatic clear cell renal cell carcinoma. Results of real life study of 344 patients
Authors: Voog Eric , Campillo‐Gimenez Boris , Elkouri Claude , Priou Franck , Rolland Frederic , Laguerre Brigitte , Elhannani Chaza , Merrer Jacques , Pfister Christian , Sevin Emmanuel , L'Haridon Tifenn , Hasbini Ali , Moise Laura , Le Rol Annick , Malhaire Jean Pierre , Delva Remy , Vauléon Elodie , Cojocarasu Oana , Deguiral Philippe , Cumin Isabelle , Cheneau Caroline , Schlürmann Friedrike , Delecroix Valérie , Boughalem Elouen , Mollon Delphine , Ligeza‐Poisson Catherine , Abadie‐Lacourtoisie Sophie , Monpetit Erik , Chatellier Thierry , Desclos Henry , Coquan Elodie , Joly Florence , Tessereau Jean Yves , Dupuy Sandra , Déniel Lagadec Delphine , Marhuenda Fanny , Grudé Francoise
Published: July 2019

The treatment landscape in metastatic renal cell carcinoma has changed fundamentally over the last decade by the development of antiangiogenic agents, mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors and immunotherapy. Outside of the context of a clinical trial, the treatments are used sequentially. We describe results under real‐life conditions of a sequential treatment strategy, before the era of immunotherapy. All patients were treated according to their prognostic score (either Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center or International Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma Database Consortium) for advanced renal cell carcinoma. A treatment strategy involving 1 to 4 lines was determined including a rechallenge criterion for the repeat use of a treatment class. Three hundred forty‐four patients were included over 3 years. Overall survival was 57 months in patients with good or intermediate prognosis and 19 months in patients with poor prognosis. In the former group, the proportions of patients treated with 2 to 4 treatment lines were 70%, 38% and 16%, respectively. The best objective response rates for lines 1 to 4 were 46%, 36%, 16% and 17%, respectively. Grade III/IV toxicity did not appear to be cumulative. The recommended strategy was followed in 68% of patients. A large proportion of patients with good or intermediate prognosis who progress after two lines of treatment still have a performance status good enough to receive a systemic treatment, which justifies such a strategy. Overall survival of patients with good and intermediate prognosis was long, suggesting a benefit from the applied approach. These results might be used as selection criterion for the treatment of patients in the era of immune checkpoint inhibitors.
User‐stakeholders' responsiveness: A necessary input for achieving in e‐governance transformation in developing countries
Authors: Ngonzi Tibuhinda , Sewchurran Kosheek
Published: July 2019

e‐Government is a social innovation phenomenon in the contemporary times, with extensive promises for social livelihood progress in developing counties. e‐Government has opened up potentials and opportunities for the operationalization of information and communication technologies (ICTs) for human development goals in the socioeconomic fields. e‐Government has unveiled political playgrounds for the citizens such as the Diasporas, who can participate in their home countries political processes through electronic voting for instance. e‐Government is a tool for the realization and strengthening of good governance processes. With such relevance in the background, there is always a gap for contribution in that context of technology and society relationships, through investigation of areas for implementation, improvement, or effective practicing of e‐government. In the implementation of e‐government, Tanzania is said to be evolving through the digital presence–interaction–transaction–transformation stages of e‐government maturity models (eGMMs). We are of the opinion that transformation for e‐government cannot be achieved in the pragmatics of eGMMs framework. We suggest the adoption of information systems project framework (ISPF) to enhance focusing on “user‐stakeholders” as strategic components for e‐governance effectiveness towards transformation, and that the responsiveness of user‐stakeholders at different levels of e‐government operations is potentially important in the phenomenon.
Comparison of blockchain frameworks for healthcare applications
Authors: Agbo Cornelius C. , Mahmoud Qusay H.
Published: July 2019

Though a relatively new technology, blockchain has become a very trendy topic in recent times, thanks to bitcoin and other popular cryptocurrencies which are built on the blockchain. With features such as decentralized consensus and data immutability, blockchain transactions are known to be transparent, secure, and trustworthy. For these reasons, blockchain is increasingly being adopted in different industries and for diverse use cases, especially where security and trust are important concerns. Health care is one such industry that offers several use cases for applying blockchain technology. Even so, blockchain‐based healthcare applications have yet to become widespread. This is mostly because initial efforts were focused on developing blockchain frameworks for cryptocurrencies and not for general purpose applications, such as health care. Recently, general‐purpose blockchain frameworks, which may be used to develop healthcare applications, have begun to emerge. However, there is no consensus on which framework is most suitable for developing healthcare applications. In light of this, this paper compares the popular general‐purpose blockchain frameworks, vis‐a‐vis the requirements for healthcare systems, in order to guide health informatics researchers and practitioners in selecting the appropriate platform for developing and experimenting with blockchain‐based healthcare applications.
Long noncoding RNA IGF2AS regulates high‐glucose induced apoptosis in human retinal pigment epithelial cells
Authors: Yu Xiaoyi , Luo Yingzi , Chen Gangyi , Liu Hong , Tian Ni , Zen Xiaoting , Liu Qiuhong
Published: July 2019

High‐glucose‐induced retinal tissue impairment is the major pathological phenotype of diabetic retinopathy. In an in vitro diabetic apoptosis cell model, we evaluated the function of long noncoding RNA, insulin growth factor 2 antisense (IGF2‐AS) in high‐glucose‐injured human retinal pigment epithelial cells. A human retinal pigment epithelial cell line, ARPE‐19 was incubated with high‐glucose in vitro to induce apoptosis. SiRNA‐mediated IGF2‐AS downregulation was conducted in ARPE‐19 cells to evaluate its effect on high‐glucose induced apoptosis, assessed by a TUNEL assay. qRT‐PCR and western blot assays were applied to examine the functional effect of IGF2‐AS on IGF2/AKT/Casp‐9 expressions in glucose‐injured ARPE‐19 cells. ART was further knocked down, specifically in IGF2‐AS‐downregualted ARPE‐19 cells, to investigate its functional involvement in IGF2‐AS‐inhibition‐mediated apoptotic protection in glucose‐injured ARPE‐19 cells. High‐glucose induced apoptosis in ARPE‐19 cells, and upregulated IGF‐2AS in a dose‐dependent manner. SiRNA‐mediated IGF2‐AS downregulation ameliorated apoptosis, upregulated IGF2/AKT and decreased Casp‐9, in high‐glucose‐treated ARPE‐19 cells. AKT knockdown was shown to dramatically reverse the preventive effect of IGF2‐AS‐downregulation on high‐glucose‐induced apoptosis in ARPE‐19 cells. Moreover, it was demonstrated that AKT knockdown directly upregulated Casp‐9 in IGF2‐AS‐downregulated and high‐glucose‐treated ARPE‐19 cells. We demonstrated that inhibiting IGF2‐AS, possibly also through activation of AKT signaling pathway, has a protective function in high‐glucose‐induced apoptosis in human retinal pigment epithelial cells in diabetic retinopathy.
Isoflavones rich cowpea and vitamin D induces the proliferation and differentiation of human osteoblasts via BMP‐2/Smad pathway activation: Mechanistic approach
Authors: Jadai Rishika , Venna Naresh , Ajumeera Rajanna , Challa Suresh
Published: July 2019

Isoflavones, such as Genistein (Ge) and Daidzein (Dz) are widely studied Phytoestrogens with potent anti‐osteoporotic and good antioxidant activity. Cowpea is one such legume having high isoflavone content and hence we aimed at studying the beneficial effects of the isoflavones isolated from cowpea as it is widely accepted staple food in India. Previously, we reported the effect of Cowpea isoflavones (CP) and Vitamin D (VD) owing to its ability of improving the osteoporotic condition in a diet induced osteoporotic rat model. In the present study, we tried to explore the underlying mechanism of CP and VD along with positive controls Dz and Ge in influencing the functions of human osteoblasts at cellular level. Initially, MG‐63 cells were assessed for the expression of genes involved in BMP‐2 signaling pathway, like Bone morphogenic protein (BMP‐2), transcription factor Osterix (OSX), total and phosphorylated Smad 1/5/8 levels and osteoblast specific genes levels namely Alkaline phosphatase (ALP), Osteopontin (OPN), and Collagen by immunoblot, flow cytometry, and quantitative RT‐PCR studies. All the levels that were upregulated with the initial exposure of the compounds got inhibited after Noggin exposure a specific BMP‐2 antagonist both at protein level and m‐RNA level, except OSX where the expression was totally hindered in CP and Ge treated groups alone. Hence, CP and VD activate BMP‐2/Smad signaling pathway and promote further proliferation and differentiation of osteoblasts. Therefore, results prove that isoflavones isolated from cowpea could be used in treating bone‐related disorders.
Differential expression of piRNAs in reprogrammed pluripotent stem cells from mouse embryonic fibroblasts
Authors: Zhu Yanye , Fan Chunsun , Zhao Botao
Published: July 2019

piRNAs are a large class of small noncoding RNA that interact with an animal‐specific class of Argonaute proteins, P‐element induced wimpy proteins. piRNAs were initially discovered in mouse testes to be a fundamental component of spermatogenesis. Outside of the germline, piRNAs were found to function in embryogenesis, development, regeneration and cancer cells. However, despite a decade of scrutiny, functional understanding of this class of small RNAs remains very limited. To determine whether there are piRNAs present and involved in the cellular reprogramming process, we extracted piwi‐interacting RNA (piRNA) signatures from a small RNA deep sequencing data set of mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs), mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) and reprogrammed stem cells by three different technologies. We successfully identified three piRNA families specifically expressed in these reprogrammed stem cells. Meanwhile, there were almost no piRNAs observed in MEFs and mESCs. Further analysis indicated that these piRNAs may associate with the reprogramming process but not cellular pluripotency. Target gene prediction suggested that at least one of piRNAs, piR‐mmu‐64162, may take part in the reprogramming process by regulating cell senescence. Overall, we firstly identified the potential reprogramming associated piRNAs, shedding new light on piRNA functions.
Lunar soil simulants alter macrophage survival and function
Authors: Li Melvin , Thompson Kaitlyn K. , Nissen Jillian C. , Hendrix Donald , Hurowitz Joel A. , Tsirka Stella E.
Published: July 2019

Lunar regolith samples collected during previous Apollo missions were found to contain components that were established to be toxic to humans; however, the health effects due to inhalation of lunar soil as a whole are still unknown. Macrophages residing in the alveolar sacs of the lungs constitute one of the last lines of defense against inhaled particulates before entry into the bloodstream. Here, we examine the macrophage response to lunar simulants that are similar in chemical composition to the lunar regolith. We assess cytotoxicity, cellular morphology, phagocytosis of simulants and expression of inflammatory markers. Overall, the exposure of macrophages to lunar simulants results in moderate cytotoxicity and marked alteration of cell morphology and uptake of the simulants. Interestingly, simulant exposure decreased proinflammatory gene expression, but may induce an anti‐inflammatory phenotype in the cells. These results illustrate that although macrophages phagocytose lunar simulants as a protective response, the simulants do induce a degree of macrophage cell death. Our study reveals some toxicity associated with lunar simulants and supports further evaluation of the inhalation of lunar regolith to understand the risks of exposure fully.
Biomimetic synthesis of Mg‐substituted hydroxyapatite nanocomposites and three‐dimensional printing of composite scaffolds for bone regeneration
Authors: Chen Shangsi , Shi Yufei , Zhang Xin , Ma Jun
Published: July 2019

In this study, we have successfully fabricated magnesium (Mg) substituted hydroxyapatite nanocomposites (Mg‐HA) by utilizing type I collagen (COL I) and citric acid (CA) through a bitemplate‐induced biomimetic mineralization approach. The obtained composite nanoparticles were subsequently mixed with chitosan (CHI) and gelatin (Gel) to prepare porous scaffolds with interconnected structures by three‐dimensional (3D) printing technique. The Mg‐HA powders and composite scaffolds were characterized. The results showed that the substitution of Mg for Ca ions reduced the crystallinity of HA crystals, but did not significantly affect the size and structure of the nanocomposites. The morphology of Mg‐HA scaffolds turned smoother compared with the HA scaffolds with Mg substitution. Furthermore, the biocompatibility of Mg‐HA composite scaffolds was evaluated by metal ion release, cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation of MC3T3‐E1 cells. According to the results, as the more Ca2+ was substituted by Mg2+, the more Mg2+ was released from the samples and the pH in cultured medium was more acidic. It was suggested that Mg‐HA scaffolds presented higher cell attachment, proliferation rate, increased expression of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and osteogenic related gene, including osteocalcin (OCN), runt‐related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), and COL I. Therefore, it was indicated that the 3D printed Mg‐HA composite scaffolds with excellent biocompatibility and bioactivity were a potential candidate in bone tissue engineering.
miR‐182‐5p contributes to intestinal injury in a murine model of Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia‐induced sepsis via targeting surfactant protein D
Authors: Du Xianjin , Wei Jie , Tian Dan , Wu Miao , Yan Chen , Hu Peng , Wu Xu , Yang Wenbin , Yin Tailang
Published: July 2019

Sepsis is a severe clinical disease, which is resulted from the excessive host inflammation response to the infection. Growing evidence indicates that Staphylococcus aureus pneumonia is a significant cause of sepsis, which can lead to intestinal injury, inflammation, and apoptosis. Studies have shown that miR‐182‐5p can serve as a tumor oncogene or a tumor suppressive microRNA in various cancers, however, its biological role in sepsis is still uninvestigated. Here, we reported that miR‐182‐5p was obviously increased in S. aureus pneumonia mice models. Loss of miR‐182‐5p inhibited intestinal damage and intestinal apoptosis as indicated by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay. In addition, we observed the lack of miR‐182‐5p altered the local inflammatory response to pneumonia in the intestine. Elevated tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) levels were observed in intestinal tissue of pneumonia groups compared with the shams. Furthermore, miR‐182‐5p knockout (KO) pneumonia group demonstrated decreased levels of intestinal TNF‐α and IL‐6. Primary murine intestinal epithelial cells were isolated and cultured in our investigation. We exhibited downregulation of miR‐182‐5p repressed intestinal epithelial cells apoptosis and rescued the cell viability. Meanwhile, miR‐182‐5p caused elevated cell apoptosis and reduced cell proliferation. Moreover, the surfactant protein D (SP‐D) binds with the bacterial pathogens and remove the pathogens and apoptotic bodies, which exhibits important roles in modulating immune responses. It was displayed in our study that SP‐D was greatly decreased in pneumonia mice models. SP‐D was predicted as a downstream target of miR‐182‐5p. These data concluded that miR‐182‐5p promoted intestinal injury in S. aureus pneumonia‐induced sepsis via targeting SP‐D.
Intracranial cystic lesions and polydactyly associated with acrocallosal syndrome: Sonographic findings in two cases
Authors: Mohanty Himansu S. , Shirodkar Kapil K. , Sharma Nikhil , Bind Mahendra K. , Nandikoor Shrivalli
Published: July 2019

We describe two cases of intracranial cystic lesions associated with acrocallosal syndrome. These fetal anomalies were detected on antenatal sonography and confirmed postnatally. Imaging findings include corpus callosum agenesis with interhemispheric cysts and craniofacial anomalies associated with polydactyly. Identifying the above imaging features is of importance to plan management and provide supportive care that may be required.
Simple and Efficient Synthesis of Novel 3‐Substituted 2‐Thioxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐benzo[g]quinazolin‐4‐ones and Their Reactions with Alkyl Halides and α‐Glycopyranosyl Bromides
Authors: Khodair Ahmed I. , Elsafi Mona A. , Al‐Issa Siham A.
Published: July 2019

A series of 3‐substituted 2‐thioxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐benzo[g]quinazolin‐4‐ones 4a–e were synthesized from the reaction of 3‐aminonaphthalene‐2‐carboxylic acid 1 with isothiocyanate derivatives 2a–e. The alkylation of 4a–e with alkyl halides gave 3‐substituted 2‐alkylsulfanyl‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐benzo[g]quinazolin‐4‐ones 5a–o. S‐Glycosylation was carried out via the reaction of 4a–e with glycopyranosyl bromides 7a and 7b under anhydrous alkaline conditions. The structure of the compounds was established as S‐nucleoside and not N‐nucleoside. Conformational analysis has been studied by homonuclear and heteronuclear two‐dimensional NMR methods (2D DFQ‐COSY, heteronuclear multiple quantum coherence, and heteronuclear multiple bond correlation). The S site of alkylation and glycosylation was determined from the 1H and 13C heteronuclear multiple quantum coherence experiments.
Motivation to Lead: Preparing Leaders of the Future through an Understanding of Role Ambiguity and Perceived Organizational Support
Authors: Jones‐Carmack Joy
Published: July 2019

The purpose of the current study was to expand on previous research on motivation to lead (MTL) by testing a situational model of MTL that included two contextual variables (i.e., goal and process clarity and perceived organizational support [POS]). Although researchers have acknowledged individual differences and situational factors may affect MTL, studies on how aspects of the work context impact an individual's MTL are limited. Thus, the current study empirically examined the effects of situational variables while controlling for individual differences previously found as predictors of an individual's MTL. The hypotheses were tested with hierarchical multiple regression applied to cross‐sectional data collected from a sample of retail employees (N = 170) at stores on the east coast of the United States. The hypotheses were partially supported. Contextual variables did account for significant additional variance in noncalculative MTL after controlling for individual differences. However, POS and goal and process clarity did not account for significant additional variance in affective‐identity MTL and social‐normative MTL. Past leadership experience and personality were the only significant predictors of affective‐identity MTL, and values and personality were the only significant predictors of social‐normative MTL. Theoretical and practical implications are presented and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Intracardiac 4D Flow MRI in Congenital Heart Disease: Recommendations on Behalf of the ISMRM Flow & Motion Study Group
Authors: Zhong Liang , Schrauben Eric M. , Garcia Julio , Uribe Sergio , Grieve Stuart M. , Elbaz Mohammed S.M. , Barker Alex J. , Geiger Julia , Nordmeyer Sarah , Marsden Alison , Carlsson Marcus , Tan Ru‐San , Garg Pankaj , Westenberg Jos J.M. , Markl Michael , Ebbers Tino
Published: July 2019

Level of Evidence: 5

Technical Efficacy: Stage 5

J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2019;50:677–681.
Combined impact of tropical central‐eastern Pacific and North Atlantic sea surface temperature on precipitation variation in monsoon transitional zone over China during August–September
Authors: Zhao Wei , Chen Wen , Chen Shangfeng , Yao Shuai‐Lei , Nath Debashis
Published: July 2019

Previous studies suggested that sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies in the tropical central‐eastern Pacific (TCEP) and tropical Northern Atlantic (TNA) both have significant impacts on the inter‐annual variation of precipitation over the monsoon transitional zone (MTZ) in China during August–September. This study further reveals that the relationship between TCEP (TNA) SST and MTZ precipitation during August–September is strongly modulated by the sign of the TNA (TCEP) SST. When TCEP and TNA SST anomalies have the same sign, connections of the TCEP and TNA SST with the MTZ precipitation are unclear. In contrast, TCEP and TNA SST changes both have significant relation with the MTZ precipitation when they have the opposite sign. During the same‐sign years, the anticyclonic (cyclonic) anomaly over the western North Pacific generated by the TCEP SST cooling (warming) is weakened by the cyclonic (anticyclonic) anomaly triggered by the TNA SST cooling (warming). Thus, connections of the MTZ precipitation with the TCEP and TNA SST are weak. However, during the opposite‐sign years, the anticyclonic anomalies over the western North Pacific generated by the TCEP SST anomalies have a constructive superposition on those induced by the TNA SST changes. As such, connections of the TCEP and TNA SST with the MTZ precipitation variation are significant. Further analysis shows that the prediction skill of precipitation over the MTZ is enhanced if taking both the TCEP and TNA SST signals into account.
Role of autumn Arctic Sea ice in the subsequent summer precipitation variability over East Asia
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhu Yali , Wang Huijun , Gao Yongqi , Sun Jianqi , Wang Tao , Ma Jiehua , Yurova Alla , Li Fei
Published: July 2019

This study explored the interannual relationship between autumn Arctic sea ice concentration (SIC) and the subsequent summer precipitation over East Asia (EASP). Since the late‐1990s, the declining SIC in the Kara–Laptev Seas has been significantly correlated with EASP as well as extremely positive anomalies in northern China and intensely negative anomalies in central‐eastern East Asia. However, there was a weak correlation between autumn SIC and EASP before the late‐1990s. Furthermore, the anomalous precipitation pattern in summer and its connection with autumn SIC variability can be explained by the seasonal persistence of continental processes (snow depth and soil moisture) into the spring. In particular, a decreasing SIC was connected with simultaneously positive and negative precipitation anomalies over northeastern China and the Siberian region, respectively, since the late‐1990s and tends to produce corresponding soil moisture anomalies over the Eurasian continent. Declining SIC also favours increased snow depth anomalies in winter over northeastern East Asia. These anomalous signals of surface processes can persist from winter into the subsequent spring, making the connection between the autumn SIC and EASP possible. The Community Earth System Model Large Ensemble simulations further verified these physical processes. More detailed mechanism for this relationship needs to be stressed in further work by numerical simulations. The results have important implications for extending the seasonal prediction validity of EASP. Moreover, before the late‐1990s, SIC‐related circulation anomalies shifted westward and northward as negative precipitation anomalies developed over west Siberia in autumn. As a result, anomalous dry soil conditions in Siberia persisted into the subsequent spring and then led to wetter‐than‐normal conditions through locally negative soil moisture–precipitation feedback before the late‐1990s.
A climatology of high‐wind events for the eastern United States
Authors: Gilliland Joshua M. , Black Alan W. , Durkee Joshua D. , Murley Victoria A.
Published: July 2019

This study examines the spatial and temporal characteristics of high‐wind events (HWEs) based on the National Weather Service high‐wind criteria for 391 first‐order weather stations in the eastern United States from 1973 to 2015. A geographical analysis on the frequency of sustained and gust HWEs shows that the highest occurrences were reported in the Great Plains and Great Lakes, while the lowest number of observations occurred in the Mid‐South and Southeast. Linear trends show that the yearly frequency of sustained and gust HWEs are significantly decreasing (−0.579 days/year) and increasing (0.943 days/year) respectively during the 43‐year study period. These trends do not persist when the HWE data are normalized (long‐term mean is removed from the yearly count), but shows a cyclical anomaly pattern for both sustained and gust winds. Overall, 90 and 82% of all sustained and gust HWEs occur from the northwest or southwest quadrant, but when interpreted from a spatial perspective the mean wind direction of HWEs can be classified into specific regional wind groupings. However, this persistent southwesterly wind direction has gradually shifted to a more southerly (northerly) orientation for sustained (gust) HWEs over the study period.
Impact of winter SST anomaly in tropical Eastern Pacific on following summer tropical cyclone precipitation in China
Authors: Wang Lei , Chen Jilong , Wu Liang
Published: July 2019

This study reveals a significant effect of the winter sea surface temperature (SST) anomaly (SSTA) in the tropical Eastern Pacific (TEP) on the following summer tropical cyclone precipitation (TCP) in mainland China. During the period 1979–2015, the positive winter TEP SSTA forces a SST zonal tripole pattern anomaly, which is positive SSTA in the tropical Indian Ocean (TIO), negative SSTA in the tropical Western Pacific (TWP), and positive SSTA in the TEP. This SSTA pattern triggers two simultaneous zonal circulation anomalies. One exhibits lower‐level convergent winds, mid‐tropospheric ascendant flows and upper‐level divergent winds over the Western TIO, and reversed situations over the TWP, producing anomalous lower‐level easterlies and upper‐level westerlies between the TIO and TWP. The other shows lower‐level convergence, mid‐tropospheric ascent, upper‐level divergence over the TEP, and reversed situations over the TWP, which create lower‐level westerlies and upper‐level easterlies between the TWP and TEP. The two circulation anomalies further warm the TEP (Western TIO) by driving ambient warm water toward this region and cool the TWP by inducing local upwelling, which facilitates the persistence of the anomalies until the summer. Consequently, the lower‐level negative vorticity, strong vertical wind shear and the lower‐level anticyclone anomalies over most of the Western North Pacific (WNP) are accompanied with anomalous mid‐tropospheric westerlies over the coastal regions in mainland China, suppressing TC genesis and movement towards mainland China so as to decrease the summer TCP in mainland China. These results provide an important implication that the winter TEP SSTA is a potential indicator for seasonal prediction of the WNP TC activity and the TCP in mainland China.
Two dominant factors governing the decadal cooling anomalies in winter in East China during the global hiatus period
Authors: Lei Ting , Li Shuanglin , Luo Feifei , Liu Na
Published: July 2019

Observational analyses reveal substantial cooling anomalies in East China, during the global hiatus period (1998–2013), particularly in winter. The factors contributing to the winter cooling anomalies and the underlying mechanisms are studied. The results highlight the substantial roles played by two factors: Arctic sea ice reduction (i.e., sea ice area in Barents‐Kara Seas, SIA) and the sea surface temperature (SST) cooling anomalies in the Kuroshio extension region (KSST). Together, these factors contribute to approximate 90% of the trend anomaly of East China's area averaged surface air temperature (ECT). The individual contributions from SIA and KSST are investigated based on observational diagnostic analyses and sensitivity experiments. The results show that the contributions from the two factors are similar. Both SIA and KSST induce intensified geopotential height over the mid‐to‐high latitudes of the Eurasian continent, with the maximum over the Ural Mountains extending toward Lake Baikal. These anomalies intensify the Ural blocking activities and Mongolian cold high. Meanwhile, both forcings cause negative 500‐hPa geopotential height (Z500) anomalies over the central North Pacific that extends westward to East Asia, intensifying the climatological East Asian grand trough. However, KSST causes positive Z500 anomalies over the Bering Sea, but SIA does not. The enhanced Ural blocking activities and the deepened East Asian grand trough jointly favour the intensification of the East Asian winter monsoon, thus causing cooling anomalies in East China.
Temperature and gas concentration measurements with vibrational ultra‐broadband two‐beam femtosecond/picosecond coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering and spontaneous Raman scattering
Authors: Ran Yang , Junghanns Marcus , Boden André , Nolte Stefan , Tünnermann Andreas , Ackermann Roland
Published: July 2019

In combustion and gasification diagnostics, the knowledge of temperature distribution and gas component concentration is crucial in order to understand or optimize such processes. In this study, we compare ultra‐broadband two‐beam femtosecond/picosecond coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering (fs/ps CARS) with spontaneous Raman scattering to retrieve temperature and concentration information. We show that two‐beam fs/ps CARS can be effectively used for concentration measurements down to 0.5% CO in gas mixtures of CO2 and N2. With two‐beam fs/ps CARS, thermometry from ~200°C to ~800°C based on CARS spectra of CO2 or H2 is shown. With spontaneous Raman scattering, concentration determination is well performed in gas mixtures of H2, N2, and CO2 with H2 content ranging from 16% to 0.5% at room temperature and from 16% to 7% H2 at ~900°C. Besides, thermometry in gas mixtures of N2 and CO2 from ~200°C to ~600°C based on spontaneous Raman scattering is also shown in this study.
Continuous intraoperative neuromonitoring for thyroid cancer surgery: A prospective study
Authors: Onoda Naoyoshi , Noda Satoru , Tauchi Yukie , Asano Yuka , Kusunoki Yukina , Ishihara Sae , Morisaki Tamami , Kashiwagi Shinichiro , Takashima Tsutomu , Ohira Masaichi
Published: July 2019

Objective

We evaluated the utility of continuous intraoperative neuromonitoring (CIONM) during surgery for thyroid cancer (TC) in an educational university hospital.

Study Design

Prospective observational study.

Methods

During the period April 2016 to March 2017, 43 patients who underwent standardized surgery with CIONM were prospectively included: 5 men and 38 women, 24–87 years old (median 52 years); 23 lobectomies and 20 total thyroidectomies with node dissection were conducted. Thirty‐six operations were performed by a supervising surgeon, and seven were performed by trainees.

Results

Temporal vocal cord paresis (VCP) was identified in 9 of 63 nerves at risk (14.3%) by postoperative laryngoscopy. VCP was not related to clinical factors including the surgeon's experience or the severe nerve stress demonstrated by CIONM. A significant relation only between VCP and loss of signal (LOS) was demonstrated (P= .002). The recovery of VCP was rapid (<1 month) in patients with global injury even when LOS was demonstrated, but was prolonged in patients demonstrating obvious segmental nerve injury and LOS.

Conclusion

The present standard protocol of CIONM was useful to some extent to protect prolonged VCP, but not enough to detect every nerve stress causing VCP during TC surgery. On the other hand, CIONM is a promising method that could contribute surgical education at training hospitals enabling the instant confirmation of the procedure safely.

Levels of Evidence

3b
Photodegradation disproportionately impacts biodegradation of semi‐labile DOM in streams
Authors: Bowen Jennifer C. , Kaplan Louis A. , Cory Rose M.
Published: July 2019

Exposure of dissolved organic matter (DOM) to sunlight can increase or decrease the fraction that is biodegradable (BDOM), but conceptual models fail to explain this dichotomy. We investigated the effect of sunlight exposure on BDOM, addressing three knowledge gaps: (1) how fractions of DOM overlap in their susceptibility to degradation by sunlight and microbes, (2) how the net effect of sunlight on BDOM changes with photon dose, and (3) how rates of DOM photodegradation and biodegradation compare in a stream. Stream waters were exposed to sunlight, and then fed through bioreactors designed to separate labile and semi‐labile pools within BDOM. The net effects of photodegradation on DOM biodegradability, while generally positive, represented the balance between photochemical production and removal of BDOM that was mediated by photon dose. By using sunlight exposure times representative of sunlight exposures in a headwater stream and bioreactors colonized with natural communities and scaled to whole‐stream dynamics, we were able to relate our laboratory findings to the stream. The impact of sunlight exposure on rates of DOM biodegradation in streams was calculated using rates of light absorption by chromophoric DOM, apparent quantum yields for photomineralization and photochemical alteration of BDOM, and mass transfer coefficients for labile and semi‐labile DOM. Rates of photochemical alteration of labile DOM were an order of magnitude lower than rates of biodegradation of labile DOM, but for semi‐labile DOM, these rates were similar, suggesting that sunlight plays a substantial role in the fate of semi‐labile DOM in streams.
Methane production in the oxygenated water column of a perennially ice‐covered Antarctic lake
Authors: Li Wei , Dore John E. , Steigmeyer August J. , Cho Yong‐Joon , Kim Ok‐Sun , Liu Yongqin , Morgan‐Kiss Rachael M. , Skidmore Mark L. , Priscu John C.
Published: July 2019

Aerobic methane production in aquatic ecosystems impacts the global atmospheric budget of methane, but the extent, mechanism, and taxa responsible for producing this greenhouse gas are not fully understood. Lake Bonney (LB), a perennially ice‐covered Antarctic lake, has cold hypersaline waters underlying an oxygenated freshwater layer. We present temporal methane concentration profiles in LB indicating methane production in the oxygenated (> 200% air saturation) water. Experiments amended with methylphosphonate (MPn) yielded methane generation, suggesting in situ methanogenesis via the carbon‐phosphorus (C‐P) lyase pathway. Enrichment cultures from the lake were used to isolate five bacterial strains capable of generating methane when supplied with MPn as the sole P source. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing, the isolates belong to the Proteobacteria (closely related to Marinomonas, Hoeflea, and Marinobacter genera) and Bacteroidetes (Algoriphagus genus). 16S rRNA metagenomic sequencing confirms the presence of these taxa in LB. None of the isolated species were reported to be capable to produce methane. In addition, orthologs of the phosphoenolpyruvate mutase gene (PepM) and methylphosphonate synthase (MPnS), enzymes involved in phosphonate and MPn biosynthesis, were widely spread in the LB shotgun metagenomic libraries; genes related to C‐P lyase pathways (phn gene clusters) were also abundant. 16S rRNA and mcrA genes of anaerobic methanogens were absent in both 16S rRNA and metagenomics libraries. These data reveal that in situ aerobic biological methane production is likely a significant source of methane in LB.
Influence of machining processes on rim zone properties and high temperature oxidation behavior of 42CrMo4
Authors: Zander Daniela , Klink Andreas , Harst Simon , Klocke Fritz , Altenbach Christoph
Published: July 2019

The influence of different machining processes, grinding, electrochemical machining, and electro discharge machining on the surface integrity, described by residual stresses, roughness, and chemical composition, is investigated to explain their effect on the high temperature oxidation behavior of martensitic 42CrMo4 steel in an oxygen atmosphere. The results obtained by thermogravimetric in situ experiments reveal that compressive residual stresses and a smaller reactive surface adjusted by grinding lead to an improved oxidation resistance compared with electrochemical machined surfaces. Surface modification by electro discharge machining appears to be most suitable to achieve oxidation resistance due to decelerated initiation of the oxide layer growth compared with the ground surface. The improved oxidation resistance of electro discharge machined and ground surfaces is linked to the modified chemical composition of the rim zone and the rim zone residual stresses, respectively.
Rheological Aspects and Extension‐Induced Phase Separation in Electrospinning of Poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) Solutions in Dimethylformamide
Authors: Wang Yu , Wang Chi
Published: July 2019

Solutions of poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) in dimethylformamide are used to study the relation between the rheological properties and electrospinning behavior. Light scattering of electrospinning jet is conducted to obtain the jet diameter at the straight jet end, from which the average extension rate of the jet is derived based on a simple approach. The extension rate is found to be higher than the terminal relaxation rate of polymer chains determined from the dynamic rheological properties. Based on this finding, the original single‐phase polymer solutions may undergo extensional flow‐induced phase separation in the straight jet section during electrospinning. String‐like structures in the liquid jet as well as in the solid fiber are observed by OM, SEM, TEM, and AFM to validate the hypothesis. The inhomogeneity in the jet, due to the presence of dissipative string structures, may serve as the potential precursor to produce lateral perturbations of jet motion to initiate the macroscopic bending instability at the straight jet end for the jet whipping. Moreover, the formation of the beaded fiber, that is, beads‐on‐a‐string structures, is likely relevant with the dissipative structures developed in the jet, besides the Rayleigh instability of the jet arising from surface tension.
Extremely severe scoliosis, heterotopic ossification, and osteoarthritis in a three‐generation family with Crouzon syndrome carrying a mutant c.799T>C FGFR2
Authors: Lin Meina , Lu Yongping , Sui Yu , Zhao Ning , Jin Ying , Yi Dongxu , Jiang Miao
Published: July 2019

Background

Crouzon syndrome is a rare and complex autosomal dominant craniosynostosis syndrome with a prevalence of approximately 1 in 60,000 births. The typical features are craniosynostosis, proptosis, midfacial hypoplasia, and noncranial manifestations, including deformities in the cervical spine, elbow, and fingers. Crouzon syndrome is usually caused by pathogenic variants in the fibroblast growth factor receptor 2 (FGFR2) gene.

Methods

We reported a three‐generation family with Crouzon syndrome; the proband showed extremely severe limb abnormalities. The clinical features were obtained by physical examination and radiographic examination. Sanger sequencing of all 18 exons of FGFR2 was conducted to identify the disease‐causing mutation.

Results

The proband was a 44‐year‐old man who showed characteristics of Crouzon syndrome, including craniofacial dysostosis, shallow orbits, proptosis, midface hypoplasia, beaked nose, strabismus, short superior lip, short stature, and neck injection. In addition to these typical characteristics, radiographic examination showed severe scoliosis, heterotopic ossification of the elbows, knee osteoarthritis, metacarpophalangeal joint valgus, collapse of the articular surface of the thumb metacarpal, knuckle ossification and fusion. Sanger sequencing identified a heterozygous pathogenic variant c.799T>C, p.(Ser267Pro) in exon 7 of FGFR2 in affected individuals.

Conclusion

Crouzon syndrome in this three‐generation family was caused by c.799T>C FGFR2, and the patient showed a different phenotypic appearance from other Crouzon patients with c.799T>C FGFR2.