bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination of Origin of Commercial Flavored Rapeseed Oil by the Pattern of Volatile Compounds Obtained via GC–MS and Flash GC Electronic Nose
Authors: Zhang Youfeng , Wu Gangcheng , Chang Chang , Lv Yating , Lai Wanxian , Zhang Hui , Wang Xingguo , Jin Qingzhe
Published: January 2020

Flavored rapeseed oil (FRO) is a typical hot‐pressed oil and is widely consumed in China due to its strong characteristic flavor and intensive color. In this study, volatile profiles of 33 representative commercial rapeseed oils in China are characterized by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) and flash gas chromatography (GC) electronic nose system. 51 volatile compounds are identified and the nitriles (methallyl cyanide and 5‐cyano‐1‐pentene), aldehydes (nonanal, 3‐furaldehyde, and 5‐methyl‐2‐furancarboxaldehyde), alcohols (1,5‐hexadien‐3‐ol, 2‐furanmethanol, and phenylethyl alcohol), and pyrazines (2,5‐dimethyl‐pyrazine and 2,6‐dimethyl‐pyrazine) are the major volatile compounds in FROs. Glucosinolate degradation products account for the highest proportion of these volatiles, which are found to have a positive correlation with the erucic acid content (R2 = 0.796, p < 0.01). FRO from Sichuan province in the southwest of China can be characterized by the obvious distinctions in flash GC electronic nose combined with principal component analysis, which indicates that the flash GC electronic nose can be used as a promising method to identify the origins of FRO.

Practical Applications: This work is helpful for expanding the knowledge of volatiles of commercial flavored rapeseed oil. The data can also serve as a basis for the quality assessment of hot‐pressed rapeseed oil. Meanwhile, the flash GC electronic nose combined with principal component analysis can be used as a promising method for the classification of flavor rapeseed oil production areas.
Determining the Exposure Pathway and Impacts of Microcystis on Threadfin Shad, Dorosoma petenense, in San Francisco Estuary
Authors: Acuña Shawn , Baxa Dolores , Lehman Peggy , Teh Foo-Ching , Deng Dong-Fang , Teh Swee
Published: January 2020

Blooms of the cyanobacterium Microcystis spp. could affect fish health through the ingestion of colonies as well as exposure to dissolved microcystins in the water column. The goal of the present study was to evaluate the dietary exposure pathway through which Microcystis spp. blooms may affect liver function and nutritional status using a novel approach involving multiple analytical methods to assess the potential risk. Our study was conducted using threadfin shad, Dorosoma petenense, which is a pelagic fish commonly exposed to Microcystis spp. blooms in the upper San Francisco Estuary. The approach incorporated published and optimized methods that offer multiple lines of evidence including in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, histopathology, condition factor indices, and nutritional profiles. Measurements of threadfin shad health and tissue condition were conducted at sites where Microcystis was present or absent during the 2007 bloom season. The results showed that dietary exposure to fish from Microcystis blooms resulted in the accumulation of microcystin in the gut and liver tissues of threadfin shad collected from the sites with blooms. Although toxicity endpoints were likely confounded by antecedent conditions, our findings demonstrate dietary exposure of Microcystis toxins to fish using a novel approach with multiple lines of evidence. Environ Toxicol Chem 2020;39:787–798. © 2020 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of SETAC.

Abstract

Using a novel approach, the dietary exposure of microcystin to threadfin shad, Dorosoma petenense, during the presence of the Microcystis spp. bloom in the upper San Francisco Estuary was validated using multiple lines of evidence, and thus there is a risk of toxicity through ingestion of Microcystis spp. CVP = Central Valley Project.
Three‐dimensional‐printed intercalary prosthesis for the reconstruction of large bone defect after joint‐preserving tumor resection
Authors: Liu Weijian , Shao Zengwu , Rai Saroj , Hu Binwu , Wu Qiang , Hu Hongzhi , Zhang Shuo , Wang Baichuan
Published: January 2020

Background

Joint‐preserving intercalary tumor resection can result in better proprioception and a more normal joint function after reconstruction. However, most reported reconstruction techniques are usually associated with frequent complications. Therefore, the approach of reconstruction following joint‐preserving tumor resection warrants further study.

Methods

Between September 2016 and October 2018, 12 patients with metaphyseal malignant bone tumors around the knee joint were treated by joint‐preserving intercalary resections with the aid of three‐dimensional (3D)‐printed osteotomy guide plates and reconstructions using 3D‐printed intercalary prostheses. We assessed the accuracy of the resection by comparing the cross sections at the resection plane with 3D‐printed matching surface of the prostheses. The functional outcomes, complications and oncological status were also evaluated.

Results

All patients were observed for 7 to 32 months with an average follow‐up of 22.5 months. The achieved resection was accurate, with accurate matching between the residual bone and prosthesis. The mean MSTS score was 28 (range, 26‐30). Superficial infection occurred in two patients. Local recurrence was observed in one patient, while pulmonary metastasis was identified in one patient.

Conclusions

The personalized osteotomy guide plate and prosthesis based on 3D printing technique facilitate joint‐preserving tumor resection and functional reconstruction. However, longer follow‐up and larger sample size are required to clarify its long‐term outcomes.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, therapeutic study.
What we know about anticonsumption: An attempt to nail jelly to the wall
Authors: Makri Katerina , Schlegelmilch Bodo B. , Mai Robert , Dinhof Katharina
Published: January 2020

Despite burgeoning academic interest in anticonsumption, a lack of definitional clarity and overlapping constructs beleaguer the pertinent literature, preventing research in the field from reaching its full potential. This paper aims to strengthen the foundations for advancing knowledge in this fragmented field by (a) undertaking a thorough systematic review of literature; (b) charting the scope of anticonsumption literature based on network analysis and attempting to delineate overlapping areas; (c) providing an integrated framework of anticonsumption research, including antecedents, moderators, and consequences; and (d) suggesting a set of specific research propositions that will enable the field to move forward. Toward these aims, we analyzed 120 anticonsumption papers revealed in the literature review, identifying a number of important anticonsumption‐related topics that warrant further investigation. Moreover, we suggest a research framework which reveals antecedents, causal sequences, and consequences of anticonsumption. Finally, a research agenda based on this integrated framework indicates promising areas for future research.
Performance of the Functional Comorbidity Index (FCI) in Prognostic Models for Risk Adjustment in Patients With Back Pain
Authors: Rundell Sean D. , Resnik Linda , Heagerty Patrick J. , Kumar Amit , Jarvik Jeffrey G.
Published: January 2020

Background

The Functional Comorbidity Index (FCI) is a comorbidity measure associated with physical function and may contribute to risk adjustment models in rehabilitation settings, but an International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD‐9‐CM) of the FCI has not been tested in outpatient settings.

Objective

This study examines the ability of an ICD‐9‐CM– based FCI to predict function, health‐related quality of life, and overall health care use.

Design

Cohort study.

Setting and Participants

This was a secondary analysis of 5155 adults ≥65 years of age with a new back pain visit from the Back pain Outcomes using Longitudinal Data cohort study.

Independent Variables

We measured 18 comorbidities with an ICD‐9‐CM version of the FCI using diagnosis codes 12 months prior to an index visit.

Main Outcome Measurements

Outcomes included the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ, 0‐24), health‐related‐quality‐of‐life (EQ5D, 0‐1), and total health care use (sum of all relative value units [RVUs]) measured at baseline and 12 months after the index visit. Linear regression and generalized linear models estimated the association between the FCI and each outcome and to examine goodness of fit. We used a 10‐fold cross‐validation to develop and compare predictive models with and without the FCI.

Results

There were 1398 participants (27%) with two or more comorbidities. Adjusted estimates show that for every one unit increase in FCI, RMDQ increased by 1.0 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.8 to 1.1) and R2 = 0.093; EQ5D decreased by 0.023 (95% CI −0.028 to −0.019) and R2 = 0.076; and mean total RVUs increased by 13% (95% CI 1.09 to 1.17). Cross‐validation showed that FCI contributed to small improvements in the performance of predictive models.

Conclusion

An ICD‐9‐CM version of the FCI is associated with long‐term function, health‐related quality of life, and total health care use among older adults with back pain; however, it explains only a small proportion of the variance.
Study of the Optoelectronic Properties of Ultraviolet Photodetectors Based on Zn‐Doped CuGaO2 Nanoplate/ZnO Nanowire Heterojunctions
Authors: Wang Xiaoyi , Wu Hongda , Wang Guanxin , Ma Xiaohui , Xu Yingtian , Zhang He , Jin Liang , Shi Linlin , Zou Yonggang , Yin Jingzhi , Zhao Dongxu
Published: January 2020

This study reports ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors based on CuGaO2 (CGO) nanoplates (NPs) and Zn‐doped CGO (CZGO) NP/ZnO nanowire (NW) heterojunctions. The vertical arrays of ZnO NWs are uniformly grown on the surface of hexagonal CZGO NPs and form a high‐density p–n junction. The heterojunctions have better optoelectronic performance parameters than pure CGO NPs. Especially, the responsivity value of CZGO NP/ZnO NW heterojunctions reaches 0.12 A W−1, and the photo‐to‐current ratio is estimated to be 4.5. This work offers a new idea for the rational design of optoelectronic devices from the synergetic effect of p‐type CZGO NPs and n‐type nanostructures.
Palgraphyne: A Promising 2D Carbon Dirac Semimetal with Strong Mechanical and Electronic Anisotropy
Authors: Zhao Ding , Cui Leyuan , Cai Jiangtao , Guo Yanqing , Cui Xin , Song Tielei , Liu Zhifeng
Published: January 2020

For next‐generation carbon‐based nanoelectronics, it is highly desirable to search for easily obtained 2D carbon allotropes with various appealing properties. Herein, based on first‐principles calculations, a new 2D carbon Dirac semimetal with orthorhombic symmetry is identified, which is composed of a carbon skeleton of para‐xylene and acetylenic linkages, and is thus termed palgraphyne [pæl'græfain]. The calculations of stability reveal not only that palgraphyne is dynamically, thermally (above 1000 K), and mechanically stable, but also that it is energetically more preferable to the recently synthesized β‐graphdiyne and γ‐graphdiyne. Due to the particular atomic‐framework, the calculations of Young's modulus and Poisson's ratio show that palgraphyne is mechanically anisotropic with a sizable ratio between the maximum and minimum value up to 3.29. Remarkably, unlike the case of graphene, the Dirac cones of palgraphyne are distorted. As a result, its electronic transport properties also exhibit anisotropy, with different Fermi velocities along diverse orientations. The highest Fermi velocity reaches up to 8.89 × 105 m s−1 in the kx + ky direction, which is very close to that of prominent graphene (9.0 × 105 m s−1). The findings highlight a distinct 2D anisotropic Dirac semimetal, which has great potential applications in nanodevices.
The behavioral theory of the (community‐oriented) firm: The differing response of community‐oriented firms to performance relative to aspirations
Authors: Smulowitz Stephen J. , Rousseau Horacio E. , Bromiley Philip
Published: January 2020

Research Summary

Combining insights from the behavioral theory of the firm with sociological research on local embeddedness, we propose that community‐oriented firms respond differently to performance relative to aspirations than noncommunity‐oriented firms. Community‐oriented firms develop long‐term relations with local constituents and emphasize community goals. This orientation should buffer them from the risk‐inducing effects of falling below financial aspirations, and encourage them to pursue community goals more intensely when exceeding financial aspirations. Using U.S. bank data from 2005 to 2013, we find that community orientation—exemplified by community banks—attenuates the influence of performance below aspirations on risk‐taking, but amplifies the influence of performance above aspirations on community investments such as small business loans. We discuss implications for a sociologically informed view of performance feedback processes.

Managerial Summary

Relative to their size, locally embedded community banks take less risk and make more small business loans than do larger banks. We find that they also respond differently to performance relative to aspirations than do noncommunity banks. Specifically, while community‐oriented banks increase risk‐taking when their performance is below aspirations, they do so less intensely than larger banks. This is because factors related to ownership and community embeddedness make such banks more risk averse than large banks. Also, performance above aspirations provides freedom of action, and community banks use that freedom to increase small business lending. Such lending benefits the community and improves the business environment in which the community bank operates important secondary goals to community‐embedded firms.
Disentangling the effects of hedge fund activism on firm financial and social performance
Authors: DesJardine Mark R. , Durand Rodolphe
Published: January 2020

Research Summary

We investigate how hedge fund activism affects firms' financial and social performance. So far, research has examined either the impact of hedge fund activism on firms' short‐term financial performance, or how other types of shareholder activism affect firms' social performance. Crossing these boundaries with data on 1,324 activist hedge fund campaigns between 2000 and 2016, we find a clear trade‐off associated with hedge fund activism: benefits are shareholder‐centric and short‐lived, reflected in immediate increases in market value and profitability; however, these increases come at a mid‐ to long‐term cost to other stakeholders, captured by decreases in operating cash flow, investment spending, and social performance. We discuss our findings from a multi‐stakeholder perspective to move beyond a polarizing debate about the merits of hedge fund activism.

Managerial Summary

With hedge fund activism on the rise, determining the consequences of equity ownership by activist hedge funds on target companies' short‐term and long‐term financial and social performance takes on central importance. In this study, we find hedge fund campaigns are associated with three broad sets of outcomes for targeted companies: (a) an immediate but short‐lived increase in market value and profitability, and an immediate and long‐lived decline in operating cash flow; (b) decreases in number of employees, operating expenses, R&D spending, and capital expenditures; and (c) the suppression of corporate social performance. By capturing the range of positive and negative effects on target companies, our study presents the competing implications of hedge fund activism on business and society.
An observational study of the role of indoor air pollution in pets with naturally acquired bronchial/lung disease
Authors: Lin Chung‐Hui , Lo Pei‐Ying , Wu Huey‐Dong
Published: January 2020

Background

Indoor air pollution (IAP) is an emerging issue for both human and veterinary patients under the concept of ‘One Health’. The association between IAP and respiratory disease in companion animals has been reported.

Objectives

The present study investigated the relationship between quantifiable indoor air quality and clinical characteristics of naturally acquired bronchial/lung disease in pet dogs and cats.

Methods

A total of 36 clinical cases (20 dogs and 16 cats) with naturally acquired bronchial/lung disease were prospectively recruited. Lower airway samples were collected and analysed, and clinical signs and the information from pulmonary function testing were examined. Indoor air quality was estimated by the average concentration of particles measuring ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5, μg/m3) and volatile organic compounds (VOC, ppm) in the animals’ domestic microenvironments.

Results

Exposure to IAP was not found to be correlated with the severity of clinical signs, pulmonary function changes or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytology in cats with bronchial/lung disease. However, a hypercellular response in canine lower airways was found to be associated with poor indoor air quality, including unacceptable indoor PM2.5 levels (>35 μg/m3) or increases in VOC concentration (>1 ppm) in places most commonly frequented by the dogs in the home.

Conclusions

Poor indoor air quality may exacerbate airway disease in pets and should not be ignored in modern society.
Extensions of the asymptotic symmetry algebra of general relativity
Authors: Flanagan Éanna É. , Prabhu Kartik , Shehzad Ibrahim
Published: January 2020

Abstract

We consider a recently proposed extension of the Bondi-Metzner-Sachs algebra to include arbitrary infinitesimal diffeomorphisms on a 2-sphere. To realize this extended algebra as asymptotic symmetries, we work with an extended class of spacetimes in which the unphysical metric at null infinity is not universal. We show that the symplectic current evaluated on these extended symmetries is divergent in the limit to null infinity. We also show that this divergence cannot be removed by a local and covariant redefinition of the symplectic current. This suggests that such an extended symmetry algebra cannot be realized as symmetries on the phase space of vacuum general relativity at null infinity, and that the corresponding asymptotic charges are ill-defined. However, a possible loophole in the argument is the possibility that symplectic current may not need to be covariant in order to have a covariant symplectic form. We also show that the extended algebra does not have a preferred subalgebra of translations and therefore does not admit a universal definition of Bondi 4-momentum.
Low risk, high reward? Repeated competitive biddings with multiple winners in health care
Authors: Pitkänen Visa , Jauhiainen Signe , Linnosmaa Ismo
Published: January 2020

We study physiotherapy providers’ prices in repeated competitive biddings where multiple providers are accepted in geographical districts. Historically, only very few districts have rejected any providers. We show that this practice increased prices and analyze the effects the risk of rejection has on prices. Our data are derived from three subsequent competitive biddings. The results show that rejecting at least one provider decreased prices by more than 5% in the next procurement round. The results also indicate that providers have learned to calculate their optimal bids, which has also increased prices. Further, we perform counterfactual policy analysis of a capacity-rule of acceptance. The analysis shows that implementing a systematic acceptance rule results in a trade-off between direct cost savings and service continuity at patients’ usual providers.
The long memory HEAVY process: modeling and forecasting financial volatility
Authors: Karanasos M. , Yfanti S. , Christopoulos A.
Published: January 2020

This paper studies the bivariate HEAVY system of volatility regression equations and its various extensions that are directly applicable to the day-to-day business treasury operations of trading in foreign exchange and commodities, investing in bond and stock markets, hedging out market risk, and capital budgeting. We enrich the HEAVY framework with powers, asymmetries, and long memory that improve its forecasting accuracy significantly. Other findings are as follows. First, hyperbolic memory fits the realized measure better, whereas fractional integration is more suitable for the powered returns. Second, the structural breaks applied to the bivariate system capture the time-varying behavior of the parameters, in particular during and after the global financial crisis of 2007/2008.
ISCEV extended protocol for derivation and analysis of the strong flash rod-isolated ERG a-wave
Authors: Brigell Mitchell , Jeffrey Brett G. , Mahroo Omar A. , Tzekov Radouil
Published: January 2020

The International Society for the Clinical Electrophysiology of Vision (ISCEV) standard for full-field electroretinography (ERG) describes a minimum set of tests, but encourages the use of additional protocols for clinical ERG testing. This extended protocol describes recording methods and derivations that will allow analysis of rod-driven components of the dark-adapted (DA) strong flash ERG a-wave, more closely related to rod phototransduction than ISCEV standard DA ERGs. The method involves recording ERGs to a flash strength equivalent to 30 cd s m2 under conditions of dark adaptation and additionally to the same stimulus following light adaptation (LA) and in the presence of a standard photopic background luminance of 30 cd m−2. The isolated rod-driven ERG a-wave is derived by subtracting the LA response from the DA ERG. The method is likely to be of value in the characterization of retinal disorders which affect rod quantal catch, diseases that affect the dynamics of any component of the activation phase of rod phototransduction, or those affecting total numbers of rod photoreceptors.
Values of love: two forms of infinity characteristic of human persons
Authors: Heinämaa Sara
Published: January 2020

In his late reflections on values and forms of life from the 1920s and 1930s, Husserl develops the concept of personal value and argues that these values open two kinds of infinities in our lives. On the one hand personal values disclose infinite emotive depths in human individuals while on the other hand they connect human individuals in continuous and progressive chains of care. In order to get at the core of the concept, I will explicate Husserl’s discussion of personal values of love by distinguishing between five related features. I demonstrate that values of love (1) are rooted in egoic depts and define who we are as persons, (2) differ from objective values in being absolute and non-comparative, (3) ground vocational lives as organizing principles, (4) are endlessly self-disclosing and self-intensifying, and (5) establish transitive relations of care between human beings. On the basis of my five-partite distinction, I argue that Husserl’s concepts of love and value of love reveal the dynamic character of human subjectivity and intersubjectivity.
Science-based entrepreneurship education as a means for university-industry technology transfer
Authors: Blankesteijn Marlous , Bossink Bart , van der Sijde Peter
Published: January 2020

This paper explores the potential of university-industry technology transfer through science-based entrepreneurship education (SBEE). The scientific literature focuses mostly on enabling university-industry technology transfer via university-industry collaboration in research, and not so much in (science) education. The paper identifies four strands of relevant literature for further theorizing SBEE principles to research its contribution to industry-technology transfer: 1. Embedding entrepreneurship education in universities; 2. Balancing theory and practice of entrepreneurship education; 3. Cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset through entrepreneurship education; and 4. Creating spin-offs through entrepreneurship education. One of the main theoretical contributions of this paper is, that SBEE is different from regular entrepreneurship education in its need for being firmly embedded in a science, technology and R&D environment, both within and outside the university. This is important in order to give SBEE students the opportunity to gain experience with handling the hurdles for successful university-industry technology transfer. The main empirical finding is that elements in the program, related to for example the balance between teaching entrepreneurship through theory and experiential learning, are not systematically covered. It means that fundamental questions such as: Can entrepreneurship be indeed taught? Which elements of entrepreneurship can be taught through theory, and which ones must be experienced in practice? are currently left unanswered. Systematic coverage of these questions enables a better exploitation of the possibilities that SBEE offers for university-industry technology transfer.
Ordered subset expectation maximisation vs Bayesian penalised likelihood reconstruction algorithm in 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT
Authors: Witkowska-Patena Ewa , Budzyńska Anna , Giżewska Agnieszka , Dziuk Mirosław , Walęcka-Mazur Agata
Published: January 2020

Background

The aim of the study was to compare widely used ordered subset expectation maximisation (OSEM) algorithm with a new Bayesian penalised likelihood (BPL) Q.Clear algorithm in 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT.

Methods

We retrospectively assessed 25 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT scans with both OSEM and Q.Clear reconstructions available. Each scan was independently reported by two physicians both in OSEM and Q.Clear. SUVmax, SUVmean and tumour-to-background ratio (TBR) of each lesion were measured. Reports were also compared for their final conclusions and the number and localisation of lesions.

Results

In both reconstructions the same 87 lesions were reported. Mean SUVmax, SUVmean and TBR were higher for Q.Clear than OSEM (7.01 vs 6.53 [p = 0.052], 4.16 vs 3.84 [p = 0.036] and 20.2 vs 16.8 [p < 0.00001], respectively). Small lesions (< 10 mm) had statistically significant higher SUVmax, SUVmean and TBR in Q.Clear than OSEM (5.37 vs 4.79 [p = 0.032], 3.08 vs 2.70 [p = 0.04] and 15.5 vs 12.5 [p = 0.00214], respectively). For lesions ≥ 10 mm, no significant differences were observed. Findings with higher tracer avidity (SUVmax ≥ 5) tended to have higher SUVmax, SUVmean and TBR values in Q.Clear (11.6 vs 10.3 [p = 0.00278], 7.0 vs 6.7 [p = 0.077] and 33.9 vs 26.7 [p < 0.00001, respectively). Mean background uptake did not differ significantly between Q.Clear and OSEM (0.42 vs 0.39, p = 0.07).

Conclusions

In 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT, Q.Clear SUVs and TBR tend to be higher (regardless of lesion localisation), especially for small and highly avid lesions. Increase in SUVs is also higher for lesions with high tracer uptake. Still, Q.Clear does not affect 18F-PSMA-1007 PET/CT specificity and sensitivity.
Snowmelt Detection with Calibrated, Enhanced‐Resolution Brightness Temperatures (CETB) in Colorado Watersheds
Authors: Johnson Mitchell T. , Ramage Joan , Troy Tara J. , Brodzik Mary J.
Published: January 2020

Understanding the timing of snowmelt is critical for water resources management in snow‐dominated watersheds. Passive microwave remote sensing can be used to estimate snowmelt events through brightness temperature satellite observations. Previous studies were limited to lower resolution (~25 km or coarser) datasets, making it difficult to quantify snowpack variability in heterogeneous, high‐relief areas. This study investigates the use of recently available Calibrated, Enhanced‐Resolution Passive Microwave Daily EASE‐Grid 2.0 Brightness Temperature ESDR (CETB) to estimate snowmelt timing at much higher spatial resolution (~3‐6 km) than has been previously available. This study investigates the effectiveness of the CETB product for snowmelt detection in several locations in Colorado (North Park, Rabbit Ears, Fraser) that were the sites of previous ground/airborne surveys during the NASA Cold Land Processes Field Experiment (CLPX 2002‐2003), along with data for the Senator Beck Basin from the Center for Snow and Avalanche Studies (CSAS). We compare melt variability with nearby air temperature and stream discharge to show that the new CETB product allows detection of hydrologic processes in mountainous watersheds. We show that the higher resolution CETB product can detect snowmelt in heterogeneous terrain more accurately than the coarser resolution product in terms of the number of winter melt events and seasonal melt onset date. This work lays the foundation for the utilization of higher resolution reprocessed CETB data for snowpack evolution more broadly in a range of environments.
Interannual Southern California Precipitation Variability During the Common Era and the ENSO Teleconnection
Authors: Du Xiaojing , Hendy Ingrid , Hinnov Linda , Brown Erik , Schimmelmann Arndt , Pak Dorothy
Published: January 2020

Southern California's Mediterranean‐type hydroclimate is highly variable on interannual time scales due to teleconnected climate forcings such as the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Here we present subannually resolved scanning X‐ray fluorescence Ti counts from deep‐sea cores in Santa Barbara Basin, California, recording 2,000 years of hydroclimate variability. The reconstructed Southern California precipitation record contains interannual variability in the 2‐ to 7‐year band that could be driven by changes in tropical Pacific ENSO variability and/or the strength of the ENSO teleconnection modulated by extratropical pressure systems. Observed interannual precipitation variance increased and was associated with longer periodicities (5–7 years) when the Intertropical Convergence Zone migrated southward (1370–1540 CE) and the Aleutian Low strengthened creating a robust ENSO teleconnection. Weak interannual precipitation variance with shorter periodicity (2–3 years) was observed when the Intertropical Convergence Zone shifted northward (700–900 CE) and/or the Aleutian Low was weak (1540–1680 CE).
Signature of Ocean Warming at the Mixed Layer Base
Authors: Clément Louis , McDonagh Elaine L. , Marzocchi Alice , Nurser A. J. George
Published: January 2020

The warming climate influences the ocean by changing its wind‐driven dynamics and by inputting extra heat. This study analyzes the warming where temperature anomalies penetrate the ocean interior, that is, by focusing on the winter mixed layer base. This allows to distinguish regions where ocean circulation contributes to warm anomalies from locations where density‐compensated temperature anomalies locally enter the ocean along isopycnals. Multidecadal (1980–2018) local temperature trends from a hydrographic data set are examined at the winter mixed layer base and partitioned into components relating to isopycnal movement (heave) and change along isopycnals (spice). Subtropical gyres and western boundary currents show warming larger than the global average that mostly projects onto heave. This is the result of the strengthening of the circulation in the Southern Hemisphere subtropical gyres and is related to both wind‐driven changes and Southern Ocean warming. Subtropical regions of surface salinity maxima are influenced by warm anomalies along isopycnals.
CMIP5 Models Predict Rapid and Deep Soil Warming Over the 21st Century
Authors: Soong Jennifer L. , Phillips Claire L. , Ledna Catherine , Koven Charles D. , Torn Margaret S.
Published: January 2020

Despite the fundamental importance of soil temperature for Earth's carbon and energy budgets, ecosystem functioning, and agricultural production, studies of climate change impacts on soil processes have mainly relied on air temperatures, assuming they are accurate proxies for soil temperatures. We evaluated changes in soil temperature, moisture, and air temperature predicted over the 21st century from 14 Earth system models. The model ensemble predicted a global mean soil warming of 2.3 ± 0.7 and 4.5 ± 1.1 °C at 100‐cm depth by the end of the 21st century for RCPs 4.5 and 8.5, respectively. Soils at 100 cm warmed at almost exactly the same rate as near‐surface (~1 cm) soils. Globally, soil warming was slightly slower than air warming above it, and this difference increased over the 21st century. Regionally, soil warming kept pace with air warming in tropical and arid regions but lagged air warming in colder regions. Thus, air warming is not necessarily a good proxy for soil warming in cold regions where snow and ice impede the direct transfer of sensible heat from the atmosphere to soil. Despite this effect, high‐latitude soils were still projected to warm faster than elsewhere, albeit at slower rates than surface air above them. When compared with observations, the models were able to capture soil thermal dynamics in most biomes, but some failed to recreate thermal properties in permafrost regions. Particularly in cold regions, using soil warming rather than air warming projections may improve predictions of temperature‐sensitive soil processes.
Does Information Theory Provide a New Paradigm for Earth Science? Hypothesis Testing
Authors: Nearing Grey S. , Ruddell Benjamin L. , Bennett Andrew R. , Prieto Cristina , Gupta Hoshin V.
Published: January 2020

Model evaluation and hypothesis testing are fundamental to any field of science. We propose here that by changing slightly the way we think and communicate about inference—from being fundamentally a problem of uncertainty quantification to being a problem of information quantification—allows us to avoid certain problems related to testing models as hypotheses. We propose that scientists are typically interested in assessing the information provided by models, not the truth value or likelihood of a model. Information theory allows us to formalize this perspective.
Illuminating water cycle modifications and Earth system resilience in the Anthropocene
Authors: Gleeson Tom , Wang‐Erlandsson Lan , Porkka Miina , Zipper Samuel C. , Jaramillo Fernando , Gerten Dieter , Fetzer Ingo , Cornell Sarah E. , Piemontese Luigi , Gordon Line J. , Rockström Johan , Oki Taikan , Sivapalan Murugesu , Wada Yoshihide , Brauman Kate A. , Flörke Martina , Bierkens Marc F. P. , Lehner Bernhard , Keys Patrick , Kummu Matti , Wagener Thorsten , Dadson Simon , Troy Tara J. , Steffen Will , Falkenmark Malin , Famiglietti James S.
Published: January 2020

Fresh water—the bloodstream of the biosphere—is at the center of the planetary drama of the Anthropocene. Water fluxes and stores regulate the Earth's climate and are essential for thriving aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, as well as water, food, and energy security. But the water cycle is also being modified by humans at an unprecedented scale and rate. A holistic understanding of freshwater's role for Earth system resilience and the detection and monitoring of anthropogenic water cycle modifications across scales is urgent, yet existing methods and frameworks are not well suited for this. In this paper we highlight four core Earth system functions of water (hydroclimatic regulation, hydroecological regulation, storage, and transport) and key related processes. Building on systems and resilience theory, we review the evidence of regional‐scale regime shifts and disruptions of the Earth system functions of water. We then propose a framework for detecting, monitoring, and establishing safe limits to water cycle modifications and identify four possible spatially explicit methods for their quantification. In sum, this paper presents an ambitious scientific and policy grand challenge that could substantially improve our understanding of the role of water in the Earth system and cross‐scale management of water cycle modifications that would be a complementary approach to existing water management tools.
Non-humidified fuel cells using a deep eutectic solvent (DES) as the electrolyte within a polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM): the effect of water and counterions
Authors: Karimi Mohammad Bagher , Mohammadi Fereidoon , Hooshyari Khadijeh
Published: January 2020

In this research, deep eutectic solvents (DESs) were prepared and employed as electrolyte in Nafion membranes for PEM fuel cell application.
Half Soccer Season Induced Physical Conditioning Adaptations in Elite Youth Players
Authors: Arregui-Martin Markel A. , Garcia-Tabar Ibai , Gorostiaga Esteban M.
Published: January 2020

This study aimed to investigate training-induced fitness changes and their
relationship with training-competition load during half a soccer season (18
wks). Training load [heart rate (HR) and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE)]
and match time were monitored, including 108 training (3 223
individuals) and 23 match sessions, in 38 youth elite male soccer players.
Fitness variables were assessed before and after the study. Yo-Yo intermittent
recovery test 1 (Yo-Yo IRT1) improved (P<0.001; 90%CI:
418–632 m; ES: 2.14). Anthropometrical, jump, sprint, and
change-of-direction measures remained unchanged. Jump test correlated with
sprint (r=0.74; P<0.001;
SEE=3.38 m·s−1) and Yo-Yo IRT1
(r=−0.58; P=0.005; SEE=4.11 m) tests.
Initial sum of 6 skinfolds was associated with changes in this same measure
(r=−0.51; P<0.001; SEE=21%). Initial
Yo-Yo IRT1 results were related to changes in Yo-Yo IRT1
(r=−0.84; P<0.001; SEE=10%) and match
time played (r=0.44; P=0.033; SEE=445 m). Mean
RPE records were related to training spent within 75–90% maximal
HR (r=0.54; P<0.001; SEE=4%). The half-season
was beneficial for endurance running performance but not for lower-limb
strength-velocity production capacity. The more aerobically deconditioned
players played fewer minutes of match, although they showed the greatest
improvements in endurance performance. Non-soccer-specific, scientifically
based, and individualized fitness programs in addition to soccer-specific
training are recommended.
Similar Effects of Acute Resistance Exercise on Carotid Stiffness in
Males and Females
Authors: Grigoriadis Georgios , Rosenberg Alexander J. , Lefferts Wesley K. , Wee Sang Ouk , Schroeder Elizabeth C , Baynard Tracy
Published: January 2020

Sex differences exist in vascular responses to blood pressure perturbations,
such as resistance exercise. Increases in aortic stiffness following acute
resistance exercise appear different between sexes, with attenuated
increases in females vs. males. Whether sex differences exist in carotid
stiffness, following resistance exercise is unknown. This study sought to
examine sex differences in carotid stiffness, aortic stiffness, and
hemodynamics following acute resistance exercise. Thirty-five participants
(18 male) completed 3 sets of 10 repetitions of maximal isokinetic knee
extension/flexion. Aortic stiffness and hemodynamics were estimated
using an automated oscillometric blood pressure monitor at baseline, 5- and
30-min post-exercise. Carotid stiffness was assessed by β-stiffness
index, pressure-strain elastic modulus and arterial compliance using
ultrasonography. Resistance exercise increased aortic stiffness, mean and
systolic pressure at 5-min (p<0.01), and pressure-strain elastic
modulus at 5-min in both sexes (p<0.05). Arterial compliance
decreased at 5- and 30-min post exercise in both sexes (p<0.01). No
interaction effects were detected in carotid stiffness, aortic stiffness,
and hemodynamics, indicating similar vascular responses between sexes. Our
findings indicate that the large arteries appear to stiffen similarly
following resistance exercise in males and females when presented with
similar blood pressure responses.
The effector mechanism of siRNA spherical nucleic acids
Authors: Yamankurt Gokay , Stawicki Robert J. , Posadas Diana M. , Nguyen Joseph Q. , Carthew Richard W. , Mirkin Chad A.
Published: January 2020

Significance

Although small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) are promising agents for treating many diseases, cellular delivery difficulties have prevented their widespread application. The use of spherical nucleic acids (SNAs) as single-entity gene regulation agents could overcome this limitation, since SNAs naturally and rapidly enter over 50 cell types. Consequently, siRNA-SNAs have been extensively used for effecting knockdown in both research and clinical settings. However, the mechanism of gene regulation by siRNA-SNAs is not well understood. Herein, we study cytosolic processing of siRNA-SNAs and how it leads to gene knockdown. Informed by this mechanism, we designed an SNA architecture with an order-of-magnitude-higher siRNA density. Importantly, this higher density reduces the cellular toxicity of SNAs without loss in RNA interference performance.
Fast oxidation of sulfur dioxide by hydrogen peroxide in deliquesced aerosol particles
Authors: Liu Tengyu , Clegg Simon L. , Abbatt Jonathan P. D.
Published: January 2020

Significance

Atmospheric sulfate aerosol particles contribute significantly to poor air quality and direct forcing of the Earth’s climate. However, air pollution and climate models simulate the formation of sulfate using acid rain chemistry known to be appropriate only for cloudwater conditions. By measuring the oxidation of sulfur dioxide (SO
2
) by hydrogen peroxide (H
2
O
2
) directly in hygroscopic, pH-buffered aerosol particles with high solute strength characteristic of many tropospheric conditions, we show that sulfate formation occurs significantly faster than under the cloudwater conditions previously explored. In part, ionic strength and general acid catalysis effects drive the fast chemistry. These results indicate that the H
2
O
2
-driven oxidation of SO
2
in aqueous aerosol particles can contribute to the missing sulfate source during severe haze pollution events.
The indentation size effect of sintered Fe/3.3 wt-%Cu + CnHm measured by Vickers scale
Authors: Blaško Peter , Kupková Miriam , Petrík Jozef , Futaš Peter , Vasilňaková Andrea
Published: January 2020

The aim of the submitted work is to study the influence of applied loads (test forces) between 0.09807 and 2.9421 N on the measured value of micro-hardness of sintered Fe/3.3 wt-%Cu + CnHm. The Indentation Size Effect (ISE), i.e. the influence of the load on the micro-hardness is expected. The results were evaluated by Meyer's index n, t-test, and non-parametric tests. The applied load has a statistically significant influence on the type and size of the ISE. Tested sintered material shows ‘normal’ ISE with Meyer's index n = 1.7588.
The autophagy protein, FIP200 (RB1CC1) mediates progesterone responses governing uterine receptivity and decidualization†
Authors: Oestreich Arin K , Chadchan Sangappa B , Medvedeva Alexandra , Lydon John P , Jungheim Emily S , Moley Kelle H , Kommagani Ramakrishna
Published: January 2020

Successful establishment of pregnancy depends on steroid hormone-driven cellular changes in the uterus during the peri-implantation period. To become receptive to embryo implantation, uterine endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) must transdifferentiate into decidual cells that secrete factors necessary for embryo survival and trophoblast invasion. Autophagy is a key homeostatic process vital for cellular homeostasis. Although the uterus undergoes major cellular changes during early pregnancy, the precise role of autophagy in uterine function is unknown. Here, we report that conditional knockout of the autophagy protein FIP200 in the reproductive tract of female mice results in reduced fecundity due to an implantation defect. In the absence of FIP200, aberrant progesterone signaling results in sustained uterine epithelial proliferation and failure of stromal cells to decidualize. Additionally, loss of FIP200 impairs decidualization of human ESCs. We conclude that the autophagy protein FIP200 plays a crucial role in uterine receptivity, decidualization, and fertility. These data establish autophagy as a major cellular pathway required for uterine receptivity and decidualization in both mice and human ESCs.
Embryotoxic impact of Zika virus in a rhesus macaque in vitro implantation model†
Authors: Block Lindsey N , Aliota Matthew T , Friedrich Thomas C , Schotzko Michele L , Mean Katherine D , Wiepz Gregory J , Golos Thaddeus G , Schmidt Jenna Kropp
Published: January 2020

Zika virus (ZIKV) infection is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in humans, and infection in the first trimester can lead to miscarriage and stillbirth. Vertical and sexual transmissions of ZIKV have been demonstrated, yet the impact of infection during the initial stages of pregnancy remains unexplored. Here we defined the impact of ZIKV on early embryonic and placental development with a rhesus macaque model. During in vitro fertilization (IVF), macaque gametes were inoculated with a physiologically relevant dose of 5.48log10 plaque-forming units (PFU) of Zika virus/H.sapiens-tc/PUR/2015/PRVABC59_v3c2. Exposure at fertilization did not alter blastocyst formation rates compared to controls. To determine the impact of ZIKV exposure at implantation, hatched blastocysts were incubated with 3.26log10, 4.26log10, or 5.26log10 PFU, or not exposed to ZIKV, followed by extended embryo culture for 10 days. ZIKV exposure negatively impacted attachment, growth, and survival in comparison to controls, with exposure to 5.26log10 PFU ZIKV resulting in embryonic degeneration by day 2. Embryonic secretion of pregnancy hormones was lower in ZIKV-exposed embryos. Increasing levels of infectious virus were detected in the culture media post-exposure, suggesting that the trophectoderm is susceptible to productive ZIKV infection. These results demonstrate that ZIKV exposure severely impacts the zona-free blastocyst, whereas exposure at the time of fertilization does not hinder blastocyst formation. Overall, early stages of pregnancy may be profoundly sensitive to infection and pregnancy loss, and the negative impact of ZIKV infection on pregnancy outcomes may be underestimated.
Switching From Originator Adalimumab to the Biosimilar SB5 in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Short-term Experience From a Single Tertiary Clinical Centre
Authors: Lukas Martin , Malickova K , Kolar M , Bortlik M , Vasatko M , Machkova N , Hruba V , Duricova D , Lukas Milan
Published: January 2020

Background and Aims

Patients’ perspectives after switching from originator to biosimilar adalimumab have yet to be assessed. We evaluated the efficacy of switching from the originator adalimumab to a biosimilar compound [SB5] in patients with inflammatory bowel disease [IBD].

Methods

Data on IBD patients who were switched from the originator to biosimilar adalimumab [SB5] at IBD Center ISCARE were analysed. Disease activity was assessed using standard clinical indices (Harvey-Bradshaw index [HBI] for Crohn’s disease [CD] and partial Mayo score for ulcerative colitis [UC]), and laboratory parameters (C-reactive protein [CRP] and faecal calprotectin [FC]). Trough levels and anti-drug antibodies were measured. Patients were evaluated 10 weeks [W10] after the switch, and results were compared with the control group of patients on originator compound.

Results

A total of 93 patients switched to biosimilar adalimumab were included [CD 86%] and were matched to 93 controls for age, gender, diagnosis, and disease activity. There was no difference in the disease activity in either SWITCH or ORIGINATOR cohorts between Weeks 0 and 10. Similarly, no difference was found between cohorts at both prespecified time points. Moreover, no significant differences in CRP or FC concentrations were seen between W0 and W10 either in the SWITCH, or in the ORIGINATOR cohort [p >0.05]. Adalimumab serum trough levels remained stable after the switch. No new safety signals were detected.

Conclusions

Our study confirmed that switching IBD patients from the originator adalimumab to a biosimilar compound [SB5] does not affect treatment efficacy.