bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal analysis of solvatomorphic decakis (dimethylammonium) dihydrogendodecatungstate hydrates
Authors: Trif László , Franguelli Fernanda P. , Lendvay György , Majzik Eszter , Béres Kende , Bereczki Laura , Szilágyi Imre M. , Pawar Rajandra P. , Kótai László
Published: February 2021

This study aims to describe the thermal decomposition of two solvatomorphs of decakis(dimethylammonium) dihydrogendodecatungstate ((Me2NH2)10H2W12O42·10H2O and 11 H2O) under inert and oxidizing atmospheres. Thermal studies have been done by TG-MS, TG-DSC-MS, XRD and IR methods in both synthetic air and helium atmospheres. The general characteristics of thermal decomposition are similar for both solvatomorphs. Minor differences could be observed in the resolution and shifting of the decomposition peak temperatures depending on the heating rate or atmosphere used. The first step of decomposition is endothermic in both atmospheres and involves 2 and 5 water molecule elimination with ~ 150 and ~ 120 °C peak temperatures for the decahydrate and undecahydrate, respectively. The elimination of further water and dimethylamine was observed with increasing the temperature, as well as the disruption of the lattice of compounds. Until 300 °C, these processes are endothermic in both atmospheres, and the further decomposition processes at higher temperatures are left endothermic in helium, but become exothermic in synthetic air atmosphere. In helium atmosphere, above 350 °C, a solid-phase quasi-intramolecular redox reaction takes place when the dimethylamine degradation products react with the W=O bonds with formation of oxidative coupling products of the organic fragments and reduced tungsten oxide with WO~2.93 composition. In synthetic air, above 350 °C, burning of organic fragments takes place, there are no oxidative coupling products and reduced tungsten oxide formation, and the end product of decomposition is monoclinic WO3.
Reliability of researcher capacity estimates and count data dispersion: a comparison of Poisson, negative binomial, and Conway-Maxwell-Poisson models
Authors: Forthmann Boris , Doebler Philipp
Published: February 2021

Item-response models from the psychometric literature have been proposed for the estimation of researcher capacity. Canonical items that can be incorporated in such models to reflect researcher performance are count data (e.g., number of publications, number of citations). Count data can be modeled by Rasch’s Poisson counts model that assumes equidispersion (i.e., mean and variance must coincide). However, the mean can be larger as compared to the variance (i.e., underdispersion), or b) smaller as compared to the variance (i.e., overdispersion). Ignoring the presence of overdispersion (underdispersion) can cause standard errors to be liberal (conservative), when the Poisson model is used. Indeed, number of publications or number of citations are known to display overdispersion. Underdispersion, however, is far less acknowledged in the literature. In the current investigation the flexible Conway-Maxwell-Poisson count model is used to examine reliability estimates of capacity in relation to various dispersion patterns. It is shown, that reliability of capacity estimates of inventors drops from .84 (Poisson) to .68 (Conway-Maxwell-Poisson) or .69 (negative binomial). Moreover, with some items displaying overdispersion and some items displaying underdispersion, the dispersion pattern in a reanalysis of Mutz and Daniel’s (2018b) researcher data was found to be more complex as compared to previous results. To conclude, a careful examination of competing models including the Conway-Maxwell-Poisson count model should be undertaken prior to any evaluation and interpretation of capacity reliability. Moreover, this work shows that count data psychometric models are well suited for decisions with a focus on top researchers, because conditional reliability estimates (i.e., reliability depending on the level of capacity) were highest for the best researchers.
A comparison of machine learning classifiers for smartphone-based gait analysis
Authors: Altilio Rosa , Rossetti Andrea , Fang Qiang , Gu Xudong , Panella Massimo
Published: February 2021

This paper proposes a reliable monitoring scheme that can assist medical specialists in watching over the patient’s condition. Although several technologies are traditionally used to acquire motion data of patients, the high costs as well as the large spaces they require make them difficult to be applied in a home context for rehabilitation. A reliable patient monitoring technique, which can automatically record and classify patient movements, is mandatory for a telemedicine protocol. In this paper, a comparison of several state-of-the-art machine learning classifiers is proposed, where stride data are collected by using a smartphone. The main goal is to identify a robust methodology able to assure a suited classification of gait movements, in order to allow the monitoring of patients in time as well as to discriminate among a pathological and physiological gait. Additionally, the advantages of smartphones of being compact, cost-effective and relatively easy to operate make these devices particularly suited for home-based rehabilitation programs.
A Self-Consistent Scheme for Understanding Particle Impact and Adhesion in the Aerosol Deposition Process
Authors: Saunders Robert , Johnson Scooter D. , Schwer Douglas , Patterson Eric A. , Ryou Heonjune , Gorzkowski Edward P.
Published: February 2021

Aerosol deposition (AD) is a thick-film deposition process that can produce films tens to hundreds of micrometers thick with densities greater than 95% of the bulk at room temperature. However, the precise mechanisms of bonding and densification are still under debate. To better understand and predict deposition, a self-consistent approach is employed that combines computational fluid dynamics (CFD), finite element (FE) modeling, and experimental observation of particle impact to improve the understanding of particle flight, impact, and adhesion in the AD process. First, deposition is performed with a trial material to form a film. The process parameters are fed into a CFD model that refines the particle flow and impact velocity for a range of sizes. These values are in turn used to inform the FE parameters to model the fracture and adhesion of the particle on the substrate. The results of FE modeling are compared to SEM images of fractured particles to complete a self-consistent numerical and experimental understanding of the AD process. Additional FE and CFD simulations are used to study how process parameters, materials, and particle parameters affect the deposition process and how the developed tools can be used to optimize deposition efficiency.
Is Exposure to BMAA a Risk Factor for Neurodegenerative Diseases? A Response to a Critical Review of the BMAA Hypothesis
Authors: RA Dunlop , SA Banack , SL Bishop , JS Metcalf , SJ Murch , DA Davis , EW Stommel , O Karlsson , EB Brittebo , AD Chatziefthimiou , VX Tan , GG Guillemin , PA Cox , DC Mash , WG Bradley
Published: February 2021

In a literature survey, Chernoff et al. (2017) dismissed the hypothesis that chronic exposure to β-N-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) may be a risk factor for progressive neurodegenerative disease. They question the growing scientific literature that suggests the following: (1) BMAA exposure causes ALS/PDC among the indigenous Chamorro people of Guam; (2) Guamanian ALS/PDC shares clinical and neuropathological features with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and ALS; (3) one possible mechanism for protein misfolds is misincorporation of BMAA into proteins as a substitute for L-serine; and (4) chronic exposure to BMAA through diet or environmental exposures to cyanobacterial blooms can cause neurodegenerative disease. We here identify multiple errors in their critique including the following: (1) their review selectively cites the published literature; (2) the authors reported favorably on HILIC methods of BMAA detection while the literature shows significant matrix effects and peak coelution in HILIC that may prevent detection and quantification of BMAA in cyanobacteria; (3) the authors build alternative arguments to the BMAA hypothesis, rather than explain the published literature which, to date, has been unable to refute the BMAA hypothesis; and (4) the authors erroneously attribute methods to incorrect studies, indicative of a failure to carefully consider all relevant publications. The lack of attention to BMAA research begins with the review’s title which incorrectly refers to BMAA as a “non-essential” amino acid. Research regarding chronic exposure to BMAA as a cause of human neurodegenerative diseases is emerging and requires additional resources, validation, and research. Here, we propose strategies for improvement in the execution and reporting of analytical methods and the need for additional and well-executed inter-lab comparisons for BMAA quantitation. We emphasize the need for optimization and validation of analytical methods to ensure that they are fit-for-purpose. Although there remain gaps in the literature, an increasingly large body of data from multiple independent labs using orthogonal methods provides increasing evidence that chronic exposure to BMAA may be a risk factor for neurological illness.
Comparative performance analysis of interventional devices for the treatment of ischemic disease in below-the-knee lesions: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Matsuoka Emi Kearon , Hasebe Terumitsu , Ishii Ryota , Miyazaki Naoki , Soejima Kenzo , Iwasaki Kiyotaka
Published: February 2021

This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the device performance of conventional balloon catheters (POBA), drug-coated balloons (DCB), bare-metal stents (BMS), and drug-eluting stents (DES) in below-the-knee (BTK) ischemic lesions with regard to lesion characteristics. Online searches of PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases (2010–2019) were conducted for each of the test devices. Primary patency rates (pp) and major amputation rates 1 year after the use of each device were analyzed using a random-effects meta-analysis model. Meta-regression analysis was conducted to test associations between the outcomes and lesion characteristics. The analysis included 18 studies reporting on 24 separate cohorts comprising 2,438 patients. DES demonstrated the best pp among the test devices (83.6%; 95% confidence interval = 78.4–88.8%, studies = 8; I2 = 66%, P = 0.005). A negative coefficient between lesion length and pp (P = 0.002) was obtained. The ratio of critical limb ischemia (CLI) patients impacted the amputation rates (P = 0.031), whereas no statistically significant difference was found between the devices. DES showed favorable pp in BTK lesions; however, as the lesion lengths using DES were short, pp in long lesions still needs to be evaluated. Shorter lesions gained better pp. A higher ratio of CLI patients resulted in increased amputation rates.
Imaging-Based Outcome Prediction of Acute Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Nawabi Jawed , Kniep Helge , Elsayed Sarah , Friedrich Constanze , Sporns Peter , Rusche Thilo , Böhmer Maik , Morotti Andrea , Schlunk Frieder , Dührsen Lasse , Broocks Gabriel , Schön Gerhard , Quandt Fanny , Thomalla Götz , Fiehler Jens , Hanning Uta
Published: February 2021

We hypothesized that imaging-only-based machine learning algorithms can analyze non-enhanced CT scans of patients with acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). This retrospective multicenter cohort study analyzed 520 non-enhanced CT scans and clinical data of patients with acute spontaneous ICH. Clinical outcome at hospital discharge was dichotomized into good outcome and poor outcome using different modified Rankin Scale (mRS) cut-off values. Predictive performance of a random forest machine learning approach based on filter- and texture-derived high-end image features was evaluated for differentiation of functional outcome at mRS 2, 3, and 4. Prediction of survival (mRS ≤ 5) was compared to results of the ICH Score. All models were tuned, validated, and tested in a nested 5-fold cross-validation approach. Receiver-operating-characteristic area under the curve (ROC AUC) of the machine learning classifier using image features only was 0.80 (95% CI [0.77; 0.82]) for predicting mRS ≤ 2, 0.80 (95% CI [0.78; 0.81]) for mRS ≤ 3, and 0.79 (95% CI [0.77; 0.80]) for mRS ≤ 4. Trained on survival prediction (mRS ≤ 5), the classifier reached an AUC of 0.80 (95% CI [0.78; 0.82]) which was equivalent to results of the ICH Score. If combined, the integrated model showed a significantly higher AUC of 0.84 (95% CI [0.83; 0.86], P value <0.05). Accordingly, sensitivities were significantly higher at Youden Index maximum cut-offs (77% vs. 74% sensitivity at 76% specificity, P value <0.05). Machine learning–based evaluation of quantitative high-end image features provided the same discriminatory power in predicting functional outcome as multidimensional clinical scoring systems. The integration of conventional scores and image features had synergistic effects with a statistically significant increase in AUC.
Recent developments in materials used for the removal of metal ions from acid mine drainage
Authors: Mokgehle Tebogo M. , Tavengwa Nikita T.
Published: February 2021

Acid mine drainage is the reaction of surface water with sub-surface water located on sulfur bearing rocks, resulting in sulfuric acid. These highly acidic conditions result in leaching of non-biodegradeable heavy metals from rock which then accumulate in flora, posing a significant environmental hazard. Hence, reliable, cost effective remediation techniques are continuously sought after by researchers. A range of materials were examined as adsorbents in the extraction of heavy metal ions from acid mine drainage (AMD). However, these materials generally have moderate to poor adsorption capacities. To address this problem, researchers have recently turned to nano-sized materials to enhance the surface area of the adsorbent when in contact with the heavy metal solution. Lately, there have been developments in studying the surface chemistry of nano-engineered materials during adsorption, which involved alterations in the physical and chemical make-up of nanomaterials. The resultant surface engineered nanomaterials have been proven to show rapid adsorption rates and remarkable adsorption capacities for removal of a wide range of heavy metal contaminants in AMD compared to the unmodified nanomaterials. A brief overview of zeolites as adsorbents and the developent of nanosorbents to modernly applied magnetic sorbents and ion imprinted polymers will be discussed. This work provides researchers with thorough insight into the adsorption mechanism and performance of nanosorbents, and finds common ground between the past, present and future of these versatile materials.
Investigating the release of ZnO nanoparticles from cement mortars on microbiological models
Authors: Augustyniak Adrian , Jablonska Joanna , Cendrowski Krzysztof , Głowacka Anna , Stephan Dietmar , Mijowska Ewa , Sikora Pawel
Published: February 2021

Incorporating zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) into cement mortars may provide additional functions, e.g., self-cleaning and antibacterial or electroconductive ability. However, these NPs are also known for their potential toxicity. During the life cycle of a cement mortar, various abrasive forces cause the release of admixtures to the natural environment. The effect of the released NPs on model microorganisms has not been extensively studied. Previous studies have shown that nanomaterials may affect various microorganisms’ physiological responses, including changes in metabolic activity, biofilming, or growth rate. In this study, we have focused on evaluating the response of model microorganisms, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans, towards ZnO nanoparticles released from cement mortars in different deterioration scenarios. The addition of ZnO nanoparticles to cement mortars had a noticeable effect on impeding the strength development. We have also detected that depending on the deterioration scenario, the release of ZnO nanoparticles was varied. Our studies have also shown that even though the release of nanoform ZnO could be limited by poor dispersion or the used filtration technique, the eluates have caused slight but statistically significant changes in the physiological features of studied microorganisms showing relatively low toxicity.
Text4Hope: Receiving Daily Supportive Text Messages for 3 Months During the COVID-19 Pandemic Reduces Stress, Anxiety, and Depression
Authors: Agyapong Vincent I.O. , Hrabok Marianne , Shalaby Reham , Vuong Wesley , Noble Jasmine M. , Gusnowski April , Mrklas Kelly , Li Daniel , Urichuck Liana , Snaterse Mark , Surood Shireen , Cao Bo , Li Xin-Min , Greiner Russell , Greenshaw Andrew J.
Published: February 2021

Background:

This study reports on the changes in stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms of subscribers after 3 months using Text4Hope, a supportive text messaging program designed to provide support during the pandemic.

Methods:

Standardized self-report measures were used to evaluate perceived stress (measured with the Perceived Stress Scale-10 [PSS-10]), anxiety (measured with the General Anxiety Disorder Scale 7 [GAD-7]), and depressive symptoms (measured with the Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ-9]), at baseline and 3rd month (n = 373).

Results:

After 3 months of using Text4Hope, subscribers’ self-reports revealed significant (p< 0.001) mean score reductions compared with baseline on: the GAD-7 by 22.7%, PHQ-9 by 10.3%, and PSS-10 scores by 5.7%. Reductions in inferred prevalence rates for moderate to high symptoms were also observed, with anxiety demonstrating the largest reduction (15.7%).

Conclusions:

Observed Text4Hope-related reductions in psychological distress during COVID-19 indicate that Text4Hope is an effective, convenient, and accessible means of implementing a population-level psychological intervention.
Standard versus combined chemical, mechanical, and heat decontamination of hospital drains harboring carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPOs): A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jamal Alainna J. , Pantelidis Rajni , Sawicki Rachael , Li Angel X. , Chiu Wayne , Morrison Deborah , Marshman John , Baqi Mahin , Richardson David , McGeer Allison J. , Borgia Sergio
Published: February 2021

We sought to determine whether combined chemical, mechanical, and heat cleaning was superior to standard cleaning for the decontamination of 32 sink and shower drains harboring carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPOs). Of 16 intervention drains, 10 (63%) were decontaminated until day 7 versus 1 (5%) of 16 comparator drains (P = .002). Intensive cleaning may be useful if administered repeatedly in drain-associated CPO outbreaks.
Absolute axial growth and trunk segmentation in the early Cambrian trilobite Oryctocarella duyunensis
Authors: Dai Tao , Hughes Nigel C. , Zhang Xingliang , Fusco Giuseppe
Published: February 2021

A short stratigraphic interval near Bulin in western Hunan (China) yields multiple specimens of the ~514-Myr-old oryctocarine trilobite Oryctocarella duyunensis. Size data obtained from these specimens indicate that, from meraspid degree 1 onward, degrees represent successive instars. Meraspid growth persisted until a terminal stage was reached, providing the first example of determinate growth in trilobites and, notably, in an early Cambrian species. The sample contains three varieties of such terminal stages, recognized as holaspids, with 9, 10, or 11 thoracic segments, respectively. During the meraspid phase, growth rates were not constant in this species. The pattern of growth seen in the Bulin assemblage differs modestly from that reported in the same species from two other localities, attesting to microevolutionary variation in developmental patterns among these collections.
The one-way speed of light and the Milne universe
Authors: Lewis Geraint F. , Barnes Luke A.
Published: February 2021

In Einstein’s special theory of relativity, all observers measure the speed of light, c, to be the same. However, this refers to the round-trip speed, where a clock at the origin times the outward and return trip of light reflecting off a distant mirror. Measuring the one-way speed of light is fraught with issues of clock synchronisation, and, as long as the average speed of light remains c, the speeds on the outward and return legs could be different. One objection to this anisotropic speed of light is that views of the distant universe would be different in different directions, especially with regard to the ages of observed objects and the smoothness of the Cosmic Microwave Background. In this paper, we explore this in the Milne universe, the limiting case of a Friedmann–Robertson–Walker universe containing no matter, radiation, or dark energy. Given that this universe is empty, it can be mapped onto flat Minkowski space-time and so can be explored in terms of the one-way speed of light. The conclusion is that the presence of an anisotropic speed of light leads to anisotropic time dilation effects, and hence observers in the Milne universe would be presented with an isotropic view of the distant cosmos.
In situ techniques to predict in vivo digestibility and to evaluate the impact of flint maize processing methods on degradation parameters
Authors: Godoi L. A. , Silva B. C. , Menezes A. C. B. , Silva F. A. S. , Alhadas H. M. , Trópia N. V. , Silva J. T. , Andrade D. R. , Schoonmaker J. P. , Valadares Filho S. C.
Published: February 2021

This study aimed to (1) evaluate the effects of flint maize processing methods on the estimation of the readily soluble fraction (a), the potentially degradable fraction (b) and the rate of degradation of b (c) for dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM) and starch in the rumen; and (2) verify whether two different applications of in situ technique can be used to estimate in vivo DM, OM and starch digestibilities. Five ruminally cannulated Nellore bulls (265 ± 18.2 kg; 8 ± 1.0 mo) were distributed in a 5 × 5 Latin square. Three experimental diets were composed of 0.30 whole-plant maize silage, 0.10 supplement and 0.60 of one of the following processing methods: dry ground maize grain (DMG); high-moisture maize (HMM); reconstituted maize grain silage (RMG). Two additional diets were composed of 0.10 supplement, 0.80 snaplage and 0.10 stalklage (SNAP-80); or 0.10 supplement and 0.90 snaplage (SNAP-90). Digestibilities were estimated using in vivo procedure or predicted from in situ technique using a single 24 h incubation point or an equation proposed in previous literature. Diets based on ensiled grains presented greater (P < 0.05) fraction a and c and lower (P < 0.05) fraction b of DM, OM and starch compared to DMG. Both alternative use of in situ technique accurately estimated (P > 0.05) in vivo DM, OM and starch digestibilities. The results suggest that ensilage process may increase the availability of nutrients. The two different applications of in situ technique showed precision and accuracy to estimate in vivo digestibility.
Twenty-year effects of antipsychotics in schizophrenia and affective psychotic disorders
Authors: Harrow Martin , Jobe Thomas H , Tong Liping
Published: February 2021

Background

Studies that examine course and outcome in psychosis have reported considerable heterogeneity in terms of recovery, remission, employment, symptom presentation, social outcomes, and antipsychotic medication effects. Even with demonstrated heterogeneity in course and outcome, prophylactic antipsychotic maintenance therapy remains the prominent practice, particularly in participants with schizophrenia. Lack of efficacy in maintenance antipsychotic treatment and concerns over health detriments gives cause to re-examine guidelines.

Methods

This study was conducted as part of the Chicago follow-up study designed as a naturalistic prospective longitudinal research study to investigate the course, outcome, symptomatology, and effects of antipsychotic medication on recovery and rehospitalization in participants with serious mental illness disorders. A total of 139 participants with 734 observations were included in the analysis. GEE logistic models were applied to adjust for confounding factors measured at index hospitalization and follow-ups.

Results

Our data show that the majority of participants with schizophrenia or affective psychosis experience future episodes of psychosis at some point during the 20-year follow-up. There was a significant diagnostic difference between groups showing an increase in the number of future episodes of psychosis in participants with schizophrenia. Participants with schizophrenia not on antipsychotics after the first 2 years have better outcomes than participants prescribed antipsychotics. The adjusted odds ratio of not on antipsychotic medication was 5.989 (95% CI 3.588–9.993) for recovery and 0.134 (95% CI 0.070–0.259) for rehospitalization. That is, regardless of diagnosis, after the second year, the absence of antipsychotics predicted a higher probability of recovery and lower probability of rehospitalization at subsequent follow-ups after adjusting for confounders.

Conclusion

This study reports multiple findings that bring into question the use of continuous antipsychotic medications, regardless of diagnosis. Even when the confound by indication for prescribing antipsychotic medication is controlled for, participants with schizophrenia and affective psychosis do better than their medicated cohorts, strongly confirming the importance of exposing the role of aiDSP and antipsychotic drug resistance.
Transdiagnostic group cognitive behavioural therapy for emotional disorders in primary care: the results of the PsicAP randomized controlled trial
Authors: Cano-Vindel Antonio , Muñoz-Navarro Roger , Moriana Juan A. , Ruiz-Rodríguez Paloma , Medrano Leonardo Adrián , González-Blanch César
Published: February 2021

Background

Emotional disorders are highly prevalent in primary care. We aimed to determine whether a transdiagnostic psychological therapy plus treatment-as-usual (TAU) is more efficacious than TAU alone in primary care adult patients.

Methods

A randomized, two-arm, single-blind clinical trial was conducted in 22 primary care centres in Spain. A total of 1061 adult patients with emotional disorders were enrolled. The transdiagnostic protocol (n = 527) consisted of seven 90-min sessions (8–10 patients) delivered over a 12–14-week period. TAU (n = 534) consisted of regular consultations with a general practitioner. Primary outcome measures were self-reported symptoms of anxiety, depression, and somatizations. Secondary outcome measures were functioning and quality of life. Patients were assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and at 3, 6, and 12 months. Intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were performed.

Results

Post-treatment primary outcomes were significantly better in the transdiagnostic group compared to TAU (anxiety: p < 0.001; Morris's d = −0.65; depression: p < 0.001; d = −0.58, and somatic symptoms: p < 0.001; d = −0.40). These effects were sustained at the 12-month follow-up (anxiety: p < 0.001; d = −0.44; depression: p < 0.001; d = −0.36 and somatic symptoms: p < 0.001; d = −0.32). The transdiagnostic group also had significantly better outcomes on functioning (d = 0.16–0.33) and quality of life domains (d = 0.24–0.42), with sustained improvement at the 12-month follow-up in functioning (d = 0.25–0.39) and quality of life (d = 0.58–0.72). Reliable recovery rates showed large between-group effect sizes (d > 0.80) in favour of the transdiagnostic group after treatment and at the 12-month follow-up.

Conclusions

Adding a brief transdiagnostic psychological intervention to TAU may significantly improve outcomes in emotional disorders treated in primary care.

Trial Registration

isrctn.org identifier: ISRCTN58437086
Associations between childhood maltreatment, poor sleep, and prenatal distress in pregnant adolescents
Authors: Foss Sophie , Gustafsson Hanna C. , Berry Obianuju O. , Hipwell Alison E. , Werner Elizabeth A. , Peterson Bradley S. , Monk Catherine
Published: February 2021

Childhood maltreatment (CM) is a known risk factor for adolescent pregnancy. Sleep disturbances and psychological distress, both common negative sequelae of CM, often co-occur during pregnancy, although directionality remains unclear. Furthermore, little is known about how CM affects sleep–distress associations during pregnancy. In pregnant adolescents, we examined: (a) whether there are significant predictive associations from CM to sleep quality and distress and (b) bidirectional influences of distress and sleep quality. Healthy pregnant adolescents (n = 204) were recruited before or during the 2nd trimester. CM was assessed at enrollment; sleep quality and distress were assessed in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. Hypotheses were tested using path analysis. Findings revealed that CM was associated with worse 2nd trimester sleep quality and distress (β = .19, p < .05 for sleep; β = .30, p < .001 for distress). Higher levels of 2nd trimester distress were associated with lower 3rd trimester sleep quality (β = .19, p < .05). Findings provide novel information about (a) associations from CM to prenatal mood and sleep in pregnant adolescents, and (b) sleep–distress directionality over the course of pregnancy. These results have implications for better understanding the ways in which CM potentially exerts influences later in life, and for targeting interventions to address physical and mental health during pregnancy.
Preoperative heart failure is not associated with impaired coagulation in paediatric cardiac surgery
Authors: Söderlund Fredrik , Wåhlander Håkan , Hansson Emma C. , Romlin Birgitta S.
Published: February 2021

Objective:

The objectives of the present study were to determine whether there was any association between the grade of heart failure, as expressed by preoperative levels of brain natriuretic peptide and Ross score, and the preoperative coagulation status in patients with non-restrictive ventricular shunts and determine whether there were any postoperative disturbances of the coagulation system in these patients, as measured by thromboelastometry and standard laboratory analyses of coagulation.

Design:

Perioperative coagulation was analysed with laboratory-based coagulation tests and thromboelastometry before, 8 hours after, and 18 hours after cardiac surgery. In addition, brain natriuretic peptide was analysed before and 18 hours after surgery.

Patients:

40 children less than 12 months old with non-restrictive congenital ventricular or atrio-ventricular shunts scheduled for elective repair of their heart defects.

Results:

All coagulation parameters measured were within normal ranges preoperatively. There was a significant correlation between brain natriuretic peptide and plasma fibrinogen concentration preoperatively. There was no statistically significant correlation between brain natriuretic peptide and INTEM-MCF, FIBTEM-MCF, plasma fibrinogen, activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, or platelet count at any other time point, either preoperatively or postoperatively. Postoperatively, fibrinogen plasma concentration and FIBTEM-MCF decreased significantly at 8 hours, followed by a large increase at 18 hours to higher levels than preoperatively.

Conclusions:

There was no evidence of children with non-restrictive shunts having coagulation abnormalities before cardiac surgery. Brain natriuretic peptide levels or Ross score did not correlate with coagulation parameters in any clinically significant way.
Transcarceral lawscapes enacted in moments of Aboriginalisation: a case-study of an Indigenous woman released on urban parole
Authors: Shaw Joshua David Michael
Published: February 2021

The field of carceral geography was lately developed by critical human geographers grappling with the spatiotemporal modes of social control and coercion particular to institutions of incarceration (Moranet al., 2018; Moran and Schliehe, 2017). This has included – in keeping with Michel Foucault's (1991) genealogy of the carceral as an art of disciplinary power – studying the disparate ways in which carceral techniques proliferate from and beyond the built site of the prison, becoming incorporated into other spatial formations. Carceral geographers have characterised this extension as transcarceral (Moran, 2014) or heterotopic (Gillet al., 2018; Moran and Keinänen, 2012). However, despite frequent references to law and legal institutions, carceral geographers generally do not theorise about law. Through a case-study involving an Indigenous woman paroled in Toronto, the author theorises about how carceral spaces are expressed through legal forms and techniques, affecting how paroled individuals, particularly thoseAboriginalised, are emplaced within urban space.
Regional Policies Targeting Residential Solid Fuel and Agricultural Emissions Can Improve Air Quality and Public Health in the Greater Bay Area and Across China
Authors: Conibear Luke , Reddington Carly L. , Silver Ben J. , Knote Christoph , Arnold Stephen R. , Spracklen Dominick V.
Published: February 2021

Air pollution exposure is a leading public health problem in China. The majority of the total air pollution disease burden is from fine particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure, with smaller contributions from ozone (O3) exposure. Recent emission reductions have reduced PM2.5 exposure. However, levels of exposure and the associated risk remain high, some pollutant emissions have increased, and some sectors lack effective emission control measures. We quantified the potential impacts of relevant policy scenarios on ambient air quality and public health across China. We show that PM2.5 exposure inside the Greater Bay Area (GBA) is strongly controlled by emissions outside the GBA. We find that reductions in residential solid fuel use and agricultural fertilizer emissions result in the greatest reductions in PM2.5 exposure and the largest health benefits. A 50% transition from residential solid fuel use to liquefied petroleum gas outside the GBA reduced PM2.5 exposure by 15% in China and 3% within the GBA, and avoided 191,400 premature deaths each year across China. Reducing agricultural fertilizer emissions of ammonia by 30% outside the GBA reduced PM2.5 exposure by 4% in China and 3% in the GBA, avoiding 56,500 annual premature deaths across China. Our simulations suggest that reducing residential solid fuel or industrial emissions will reduce both PM2.5 and O3 exposure, whereas other policies may increase O3 exposure. Improving particulate air quality inside the GBA will require consideration of residential solid fuel and agricultural sectors, which currently lack targeted policies, and regional cooperation both inside and outside the GBA.
Effect of the Electric Field on the Agyrotropic Electron Distributions
Authors: Gao C.‐H. , Tang B.‐B. , Li W. Y. , Wang C. , Khotyaintsev Yu V. , Graham D. B. , Gershman D. J. , Rager A. C. , Giles B. L. , Lindqvist P. ‐A , Ergun R. E. , Russell C. T. , Burch J. L.
Published: February 2021

We investigate agyrotropic electron distributions from two magnetopause events observed by magnetospheric multiscale (MMS) spacecraft. Agyrotropic electron distributions can be generated by the finite electron gyration at an electron‐scale boundary, and the electric field normal to this boundary usually contributes to the electron acceleration to make the agyrotropic distributions more apparent. The effect of the electric field becomes important only when it is sufficiently strong and local, meaning its electrostatic potential is comparable to or larger than the electron temperature, and its width is smaller than the electron thermal gyroradius, so that this electric field can directly accelerate part of the electrons out of the original core to form agyrotropic electron distributions. Also, we reproduce the measured electron “finger” structures from test particle simulations, which can be effectively suppressed by increasing the sampling rate of the electron measurement.
Evaluating the Mobile Flux Plane (MFP) Method to Estimate Methane Emissions Using Large Eddy Simulations (LES)
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Mitchell Douglas A. , Steinhoff Daniel F. , Saide Pablo , Kosovic Branko , Downey Nicole , Blewitt Doug , Monache Luca Delle
Published: February 2021

This study evaluates the efficacy of the mobile flux plane (MFP) method to derive methane emissions from oil and gas production fields using a first‐of‐its‐kind high‐resolution methane concentration data set. Transport and dispersion of methane emissions from seven hypothetical well pads generated with an oil field emission simulator is simulated every second at 10 m resolution using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model in large eddy simulation mode. The time varying WRF‐generated methane concentration data set is sampled by a simulated MFP system downwind of the seven well pads at five sampling distances of 50, 75, 100, 125, and 150 m. Several key findings highlight the significant variability in MFP emission rate estimates induced by atmospheric turbulence and variable source emission rates. Natural atmospheric turbulence alone was found to generate significant variability (33%–75%) in the MFP emission estimates with constant emission rates at the source location. It was also found that turbulent wind speed fluctuations over the duration of a transect can also affect MFP estimates up to about ±50% through convergence (divergence) that increases (decreases) methane concentrations, and by its effect on the assumption of steady winds over the duration of the transect. It was further found that the MFP method typically estimated about 19%–33% and 51%–75% of known site emission rates using the trapezoidal and Gaussian fit integration methods, respectively. Thus, methane concentrations would need to be measured to a much higher elevation to generate robust and accurate methane emission rate estimates.
Disentangling the Regional Climate Impacts of Competing Vegetation Responses to Elevated Atmospheric CO2
Authors: McDermid Sonali Shukla , Cook Benjamin I. , De Kauwe Martin G. , Mankin Justin , Smerdon Jason E. , Williams A. Park , Seager Richard , Puma Michael J. , Aleinov Igor , Kelley Maxwell , Nazarenko Larissa
Published: February 2021

Biophysical vegetation responses to elevated atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) affect regional hydroclimate through two competing mechanisms. Higher CO2 increases leaf area (LAI), thereby increasing transpiration and water losses. Simultaneously, elevated CO2 reduces stomatal conductance and transpiration, thereby increasing rootzone soil moisture. Which mechanism dominates in the future is highly uncertain, partly because these two processes are difficult to explicitly separate within dynamic vegetation models. We address this challenge by using the GISS ModelE global climate model to conduct a novel set of idealized 2×CO2 sensitivity experiments to: evaluate the total vegetation biophysical contribution to regional climate change under high CO2; and quantify the separate contributions of enhanced LAI and reduced stomatal conductance to regional hydroclimate responses. We find that increased LAI exacerbates soil moisture deficits across the sub‐tropics and more water‐limited regions, but also attenuates warming by ∼0.5–1°C in the US Southwest, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and northern South America. Reduced stomatal conductance effects contribute ∼1°C of summertime warming. For some regions, enhanced LAI and reduced stomatal conductance produce nonlinear and either competing or mutually amplifying hydroclimate responses. In northeastern Australia, these effects combine to exacerbate radiation‐forced warming and contribute to year‐round water limitation. Conversely, at higher latitudes these combined effects result in less warming than would otherwise be predicted due to nonlinear responses. These results highlight substantial regional variation in CO2‐driven vegetation responses and the importance of improving model representations of these processes to better quantify regional hydroclimate impacts.
Seasonal and Spatial Variability of Carbon Monoxide (CO) in the Martian Atmosphere From PFS/MEX Observations
Authors: Bouche Jimmy , Coheur Pierre‐François , Giuranna Marco , Wolkenberg Paulina , Nardi Luca , Amoroso Marilena , Vandaele Ann Carine , Daerden Frank , Neary Lori , Bauduin Sophie
Published: February 2021

A subset of more than 100,000 nadir measurements covering more than 7 Martian years (MY 26–MY 33) recorded in the thermal part of the Short Wavelength Channel (SWC) from the Planetary Fourier Spectrometer (PFS) on board Mars Express is exploited to investigate the global distribution and the seasonal cycle of carbon monoxide (CO) on Mars. The retrieval of CO vertical profiles is successfully achieved using a methodology based on the optimal estimation but the low information content is such that we mainly discuss the variability in CO in terms of integrated columns (from the surface to 24 km) or the associated column‐averaged mixing ratio. We find a strong seasonality in CO, especially at mid and high‐latitudes, which confirms earlier work and the current knowledge of the CO2 condensation/sublimation cycles, as implemented for instance in the Global Environmental Multiscale (GEM) general circulation model for Mars, that we use as a basis for comparison. We report a general consistency between model and observation, with a tendency of the latter to provide lower CO volume mixing ratios (VMRs), except at low latitudes. The spatial distribution of the CO column‐averaged VMR is obtained on a seasonal basis and investigated in terms of large‐scale patterns but also local peculiarities. Finally, we show that the retrieved profiles systematically present strong CO vertical gradients close to the surface in mid‐ and equatorial latitudes, likely related to the vertical sensitivity of PFS rather than real near‐surface CO enrichment.
Climate, Fuel, and Land Use Shaped the Spatial Pattern of Wildfire in California’s Sierra Nevada
Authors: Chen Bin , Jin Yufang , Scaduto Erica , Moritz Max A. , Goulden Michael L. , Randerson James T.
Published: February 2021

California’s Sierra Nevada has experienced a large increase in wildfire activities over recent decades. This intensifying fire regime has coincided with a warming climate and increasing human activity, but the relative importance of the biophysical and anthropogenic drivers of wildfire remains unclear across this diverse landscape, especially at a finer spatial scale. We used multisource geospatial data sets of fire occurrence, and human, climatic, and biophysical variables to examine the spatial pattern and controls on Sierra Nevada wildfires averaged from 1984 to 2017. The maximum entropy model driven by both biophysical and anthropogenic variables predicted the spatial distribution of fire probability well, with an area under the curve (AUC) score of 0.81. Model diagnostics revealed that aspects of the climate, including vapor pressure deficit (VPD), temperature, and burning index (difficulty of control), dominated the spatial patterns of fire probability across the whole Sierra Nevada region. The VPD was the leading control, with a relative contribution of 32.1%. Population density and fuel amount were also significant drivers, each accounting for 15.8%–12.4% of relative contribution. VPD and burning index were the most important factors for fire probability in higher elevation forest, while population density was comparatively more important in the lower elevation forest regions of the Sierra Nevada. Our findings improved our understanding of the relative importance of various factors in shaping the spatial patterns of historical fire probability in the Sierra Nevada and across various subecoregions, providing insights for targeting spatially varying forest management strategies to limit potential future increases in wildfires.
Punctuated Orogeny During the Assembly of Asia: Tectonostratigraphic Evolution of the North China Craton and the Qilian Shan From the Paleoproterozoic to Early Paleozoic
Authors: Wu Chen , Zuza Andrew V. , Yin An , Chen Xuanhua , Haproff Peter J. , Li Jie , Li Bing , Ding Lin
Published: February 2021

The Proterozoic‐Phanerozoic evolution of the Tarim and North China cratons is integral to the construction of the Eurasian continent. Throughout the Paleozoic, these continents were bound by the Paleo‐Asian and Tethyan Oceans to the north and south, respectively, and, thus, their paleogeography is critical to reconstructions of the oceanic domains. Specifically, it remains uncertain whether the Tarim and North China cratons were contiguous during the Paleozoic. Geologic observations from the Qilian Shan and Longshou Shan of western China provide valuable information regarding the paleotectonic relationships of these continents. Here we present detailed field, geochronological, and geochemical observations from key locations in the Qilian Shan and Longshou Shan to decipher complex relationships between the Kunlun‐Qaidam, North China, and Tarim continents. Paleoproterozoic deformation might have been associated with the northern North China orogen, whereas a Neoproterozoic collisional orogen occurred between the Kunlun‐Qaidam‐South Tarim and the North China‐North Tarim. Subsequent late Neoproterozoic rifting led to the opening of the Qilian ocean as an embayed marginal sea, and the Paleo‐Asian Ocean developed along the northern margin of the North China craton. South‐dipping subduction, arc magmatism, slab rollback, and convergence between Kunlun‐Qaidam and North China continued throughout the Early Silurian, which were recorded in the Qilian Shan and Longshou Shan regions. Our updated geotectonic framework requires reevaluation of previously published paleogeographic models, including ones that suggest the North China craton was affixed to Gondwana in the early Paleozoic. It is further considered a possible connection between the North China and southern Africa at ca. 2.05 Ga.
Elevated myocardial fructose and sorbitol levels are associated with diastolic dysfunction in diabetic patients, and cardiomyocyte lipid inclusions in vitro
Authors: Daniels Lorna J. , Annandale Marco , Koutsifeli Parisa , Li Xun , Bussey Carol T. , van Hout Isabelle , Bunton Richard W. , Davis Philip J. , Coffey Sean , Katare Rajesh , Lamberts Regis R. , Delbridge Lea M. D. , Mellor Kimberley M.
Published: February 2021

Diabetes is associated with cardiac metabolic disturbances and increased heart failure risk. Plasma fructose levels are elevated in diabetic patients. A direct role for fructose involvement in diabetic heart pathology has not been investigated. The goals of this study were to clinically evaluate links between myocardial fructose and sorbitol (a polyol pathway fructose precursor) levels with evidence of cardiac dysfunction, and to experimentally assess the cardiomyocyte mechanisms involved in mediating the metabolic effects of elevated fructose. Fructose and sorbitol levels were increased in right atrial appendage tissues of type 2 diabetic patients (2.8- and 1.5-fold increase respectively). Elevated cardiac fructose levels were confirmed in type 2 diabetic rats. Diastolic dysfunction (increased E/e’, echocardiography) was significantly correlated with cardiac sorbitol levels. Elevated myocardial mRNA expression of the fructose-specific transporter, Glut5 (43% increase), and the key fructose-metabolizing enzyme, Fructokinase-A (50% increase) was observed in type 2 diabetic rats (Zucker diabetic fatty rat). In neonatal rat ventricular myocytes, fructose increased glycolytic capacity and cytosolic lipid inclusions (28% increase in lipid droplets/cell). This study provides the first evidence that elevated myocardial fructose and sorbitol are associated with diastolic dysfunction in diabetic patients. Experimental evidence suggests that fructose promotes the formation of cardiomyocyte cytosolic lipid inclusions, and may contribute to lipotoxicity in the diabetic heart.