bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interacting brains revisited: A cross‐brain network neuroscience perspective
Authors: Gerloff Christian , Konrad Kerstin , Bzdok Danilo , Büsing Christina , Reindl Vanessa
Published: June 2022

Elucidating the neural basis of social behavior is a long‐standing challenge in neuroscience. Such endeavors are driven by attempts to extend the isolated perspective on the human brain by considering interacting persons' brain activities, but a theoretical and computational framework for this purpose is still in its infancy. Here, we posit a comprehensive framework based on bipartite graphs for interbrain networks and address whether they provide meaningful insights into the neural underpinnings of social interactions. First, we show that the nodal density of such graphs exhibits nonrandom properties. While the current hyperscanning analyses mostly rely on global metrics, we encode the regions' roles via matrix decomposition to obtain an interpretable network representation yielding both global and local insights. With Bayesian modeling, we reveal how synchrony patterns seeded in specific brain regions contribute to global effects. Beyond inferential inquiries, we demonstrate that graph representations can be used to predict individual social characteristics, outperforming functional connectivity estimators for this purpose. In the future, this may provide a means of characterizing individual variations in social behavior or identifying biomarkers for social interaction and disorders.
Somatic genomic landscape of East Asian epithelial ovarian carcinoma and its clinical implications from prospective clinical sequencing: A Korean Gynecologic Oncology Group study (KGOG 3047)
Authors: Sa Jason K. , Kim Jihye , Kang Sokbom , Kim Sang Wun , Song Taejong , Shim Seung‐Hyuk , Choi Min Chul , No Jae Hong , Song Jae‐Yun , Kim Deokhoon , Kim Yong‐Man , Kim Jae‐Hoon , Lee Jeong‐Won
Published: June 2022

Through the wide adaptation of next‐generation sequencing (NGS) technology within clinical practice, molecular profiling of the tumor has been the principal component of personalized treatment. In our study, we have generated a large collection of cancer genomes on East Asian epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) patients and demonstrate the feasibility and utility of NGS platforms to explore the dynamic interrelations of major cancer driver alterations and their impacts on clinical prognosis and management. A total of 652 EOC patients have undergone clinical NGS panels to determine the prevalence of germline and somatic mutations. Notably, TP53 was the most frequently altered event (73%), followed by both BRCA1 and BRCA2 (22% each) and MYC (19%) through pan‐EOC analysis. When analyzed based on individual histopathological levels, TP53 mutation was highly dominant in high‐grade serous and mucinous histology, whereas mutations in PIK3CA and ARID1A were mostly observed in clear cell carcinoma, and KRAS, BRAF, and CDKN2A mutations were enriched in endometrioid, low‐grade serous, and mucinous tumors, respectively. The network‐based probabilistic model showed significant co‐occurrences of TP53 with BRCA1 and ALK with BRCA2, NOTCH1, and ROS1, whereas mutual exclusivity of TP53 with KRAS and PIK3CA was evident. Furthermore, we utilized machine‐learning algorithms to identify molecular correlates that conferred increased sensitivity to platinum and olaparib treatments including somatic mutations in BRCA1, ATM, and MYC. Conversely, patients with ALK mutation were considerably resistant to both treatment modalities. Collectively, our results demonstrate the clinical feasibility of prospective genetic sequencing to facilitate personalized treatment opportunities for patients with EOC.
Violacein negatively modulates the colorectal cancer survival and epithelial–mesenchymal transition
Authors: de Souza Oliveira Patricia F. , Faria Alessandra V. S. , Clerici Stefano P. , Akagi Erica M. , Carvalho Hernandes F. , Justo Giselle Z. , Durán Nelson , Ferreira‐Halder Carmen V.
Published: June 2022

Violacein is a secondary metabolite produced by several microorganisms including Chromobacterium violaceum, and it is already used in food and cosmetics. However, due to its potent anticancer and low side effects, its molecular action needs to be deeply scrutinized. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to evaluate the violacein's ability to interfere with three cancer hallmarks: growth factors receptor‐dependent signaling, proliferation, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). Violacein has been associated with the induction of apoptosis in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells. Here, we demonstrate that this molecule is also active in CRC spheroids and inhibits cell migration. Violacein treatment reduced the amount of EGFR and AXL receptors in the HT29 cell line. Accordingly, the inhibition of the AKT, ERK, and PKCδ kinases, which are downstream mediators of the signaling pathways triggered by EGFR and AXL, is detected. Another interesting finding was that even when the cells were stimulated with transforming growth factor‐β, the EMT marker (N‐cadherin) decreased. Therefore, this study provides further evidence that reinforces the potential of violacein as an antitumor agent, once this biomolecule can “switch off” properties associated with cancer plasticity.
Involvement of phosphatidylserine receptors in the skeletal muscle regeneration: therapeutic implications
Authors: Szondy Zsuzsa , Al‐Zaeed Nour , Tarban Nastaran , Fige Éva , Garabuczi Éva , Sarang Zsolt
Published: June 2022

Sarcopenia is a progressive loss of muscle mass and strength with a risk of adverse outcomes such as disability, poor quality of life, and death. Increasing evidence indicates that diminished ability of the muscle to activate satellite cell‐dependent regeneration is one of the factors that might contribute to its development. Skeletal muscle regeneration following myogenic cell death results from the proliferation and differentiation of myogenic stem cells, called satellite cells, located beneath the basal lamina of the muscle fibres. Satellite cell differentiation is not a satellite cell‐autonomous process but depends on signals provided by the surrounding cells. Infiltrating macrophages play a key role in the process partly by clearing the necrotic cell debris, partly by producing cytokines and growth factors that guide myogenesis. At the beginning of the muscle regeneration process, macrophages are pro‐inflammatory, and the cytokines produced by them trigger the proliferation and differentiation of satellite cells. Following the uptake of dead cells, however, a transcriptionally regulated phenotypic change (macrophage polarization) is induced in them resulting in their transformation into healing macrophages that guide resolution of inflammation, completion of myoblast differentiation, myoblast fusion and growth, and return to homeostasis. Impaired efferocytosis results in delayed cell death clearance, delayed macrophage polarization, prolonged inflammation, and impaired muscle regeneration. Thus, proper efferocytosis by macrophages is a determining factor during muscle repair. Here we review that both efferocytosis and myogenesis are dependent on the cell surface phosphatidylserine (PS), and surprisingly, these two processes share a number of common PS receptors and signalling pathways. Based on these findings, we propose that stimulating the function of PS receptors for facilitating muscle repair following injury could be a successful approach, as it would enhance efferocytosis and myogenesis simultaneously. Because increasing evidence indicates a pathophysiological role of impaired efferocytosis in the development of chronic inflammatory conditions, as well as in impaired muscle regeneration both contributing to the development of sarcopenia, improving efferocytosis should be considered also in its management. Again applying or combining those treatments that target PS receptors would be expected to be the most effective, because they would also promote myogenesis. A potential PS receptor‐triggering candidate molecule is milk fat globule‐EGF‐factor 8 (MFG‐E8), which not only stimulates PS‐dependent efferocytosis and myoblast fusion but also promotes extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) and Akt activation‐mediated cell proliferation and cell cycle progression in myoblasts.
Comparative light and scanning electron microscopic studies of pollen of two marijuana species causing allergies
Authors: Abbas Moneeza , Shaheen Shabnum , Arshad Amina , Ali Muhammad , Rasool Bilal , Rasool Ghulam
Published: June 2022

Marijuana (Cannabis) belongs to family Cannabaceae. This plant is a great natural source of cannabinoids, which have several medical applications such as it is used for the treatment of anxiety and psychosis, disorders of motility and epilepsy. However, this plant is also notorious for its pollen allergic reactions. Mainly two species, that is, C. sativa L. and C.indica Lam. are involved in allergic reactions. In this study, morpho‐palynological studies of both the species were conducted. A number of morphological differences were observed in the both species. C. sativa is tall with narrowed leaves and fibrous stalk plant while C. indica is short, bushier, broad leaves, and having woody stalk plant. Both the species are varied in their pollen characteristics. The polar diameter of C. sativa observed was 7.5 μm and equatorial diameter was 8 μm, and its shape was oblate‐spheroidal. C. indica had 7 μm polar diameter, 7.5 μm equatorial diameter but its shape was similar to C. sativa, that is, oblate‐spheroidal. About 40%‑50% people were affected with both these marijuana species and had symptoms of allergies like dry cough, congestion, itchy eyes, sore throat, nausea, a runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing. It was concluded that both species' pollen are allergy causing and pollen of both species are different with variations in morphological and allergic symptoms.

Research Highlights

Marijuana has great therapeutic importance but it is also notorious for its pollen allergic reactions. Two species of Marijuana, that is, Cannabis sativa L. and Cannabis indica Lam mainly responsible for these pollen allergies. The present research work focused the morpho palynological analysis of these two Marijuana species through light and scanning electron microscopy.
Updates to the Annual P Loss Estimator (APLE) model
Authors: Bolster Carl H. , Vadas Peter A.
Published: June 2022

The Annual P Loss Estimator (APLE) is a spreadsheet‐based model developed for predicting annual field‐scale P loss in surface runoff and changes in soil test P. This empirically based model was designed for use by those without significant modeling experience. However, a significant limitation with the model is that it does not calculate runoff. Moreover, APLE is deterministic and thus predicts a single value for a given set of inputs, thereby ignoring any uncertainties associated with model inputs. Here, we describe modifications to APLE that allow users to estimate runoff using the Curve Number method. Using Monte Carlo simulations, the updated version of APLE also provides users the ability to account for model input uncertainties in estimating model prediction errors. We provide examples of using the revised version of APLE (ver. 3.0) for calculating P loss from two fields in Mississippi over a 4‐yr period and calculating the change in Mehlich‐3 P concentrations over a 9‐yr period at three locations in Maryland following cessation of P application. Both examples demonstrate that incorporating estimates of uncertainties in both measured data and model predictions provides modelers with a more realistic understanding of the model's performance.
Extensive evaluation of machine learning models and data preprocessings for Raman modeling in bioprocessing
Authors: Poth Michaela , Magill Gordon , Filgertshofer Alois , Popp Oliver , Großkopf Tobias
Published: June 2022

Raman spectroscopy is a very promising tool for monitoring key analytes in mammalian cell culture fermentations in real time. However, major challenges are associated with this promising technology in aqueous bioprocessing matrixes such as a strong background fluorescence, which is typically addressed by computational preprocessing of the raw Raman spectra. In this study, we present an extensive combinatorial assessment of various machine learning algorithms with numerous popular preprocessing methods on the performance and robustness of Raman‐based real‐time predictions of key analytes. We show that preprocessing methods have a large influence on algorithmic performance. Furthermore, there is a large variance across the various combinations of preprocessing steps and tested machine learning regression algorithms. We demonstrate that neural networks and random forest regression show very good performance and robustness across different, bioprocess relevant analytes. They significantly outperform partial least squares regression, the most widely used regression algorithm in the field. Overall, this extensive study provides a sound basis for building robust, next‐generation models for monitoring analytes in real time based on Raman spectroscopy.
Evaluation of decadal land degradation dynamics in old coal mine areas of Central India
Authors: Thakur Tarun Kumar , Dutta Joystu , Bijalwan Arvind , Swamy Singham Laxman
Published: June 2022

The present study attempts to understand land use land cover change dynamics in an area subjected to opencast and underground coal mining for the last few decades in Kotma Coalmines of Anuppur District in Madhya Pradesh, India through geospatial techniques. Land use and land cover (LULC) change detection analysis was performed digitally classifying LANDSAT‐5 (2001) as well as LANDSAT‐8 (2020) satellite data using a maximum likelihood algorithm. Results revealed that area under dense native vegetation decreased drastically (by 13.74 km2) with the gradual and consistent expansion in the activities of coal mines which showed the highest increase in area over time (15.84 km2). Bivariate regression analysis showed the positive empirical relationships between vegetation indices and soil physico‐chemical parameters. Studies suggested that soil and vegetation is degraded over the large mining areas consistently over a long time period. Despite the continuous reforestation activities on mined areas, the decline area under dense vegetation and sparse vegetation over the twenty‐year time‐scale indicates that the reclamation activities are still in its infancy. A land degradation vulnerability Index (LDVI) map was generated to understand the extent of decadal land degradation trends and it shows that 8.60% of the area is highly vulnerable to degradation. The land degradation index (LDI) inputs will help the planners to develop alternate strategies to tackle vulnerability zones for safe mining. Monthly estimation of various meteorological parameters was also recorded to generate heat plots for the period 2001–2020. The study concludes that monitoring and assessment of fragile ecosystems are indispensable for holistic environmental management.
Optimal replenishment policy for non‐instantaneous deteriorating items with stochastic demand under advance sales discount and available capacity
Authors: Hou Kuo‐Lung , Srivastava Hari M. , Lin Li‐Chiao , Sarker Bhaba R. , Lee Shih‐Fang
Published: June 2022

This paper presents a two‐warehouse inventory model for non‐instantaneous deteriorating items with a price‐dependent stochastic demand under advance sales discount and available capacity. In this model, the retailer offers a price discount to customers if they can commit their orders prior to the sales period. It encourages the retailer to order a large quantity that can be stored in an owned warehouse and then in a rented warehouse if there are excess items. Shortages are allowed and partially backlogged. The objective of this paper is to simultaneously determine the optimal price discount, the optimal order quantity, and the optimal replenishment schedule in such a way that the expected total profit is maximized. Two theorems are proved in order to verify that the expected total profit function is concave and to identify that an optimal replenishment decision exists. We further propose an algorithm to find the optimal replenishment policy by the retailer. Finally, we use numerical examples to illustrate the results presented herein. Moreover, based upon the sensitivity analysis, some important managerial implications are also discussed.
Evaluation of specific absorption rate and heating in children exposed to a 7T MRI head coil
Authors: Malik Shaihan J. , Hand Jeffrey W. , Carmichael David W. , Hajnal Joseph V.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To evaluate specific absorption rate (SAR) and temperature distributions resulting from pediatric exposure to a 7T head coil.

Methods

Exposure from a 297‐MHz birdcage head transmit coil (CP mode single‐channel transmission) was simulated in several child models (ages 3–14, mass 13.9–50.4 kg) and one adult, using time‐domain electromagnetic and thermal solvers. Position variability, age‐related changes in dielectric properties, and differences in thermoregulation were also considered.

Results

Age‐adjusted dielectric properties had little effect in this population. Head average SAR (hdSAR) was the limiting factor for all models centered in the coil. The value of hdSAR (normalized to net power) was found to decrease linearly with increasing mass (R2 = 0.86); no equivalent relationship for peak‐spatial 10g averaged SAR (psSAR10g) was identified. Relatively small (< 10%) variability was observed in hdSAR for position shifts of ±25 mm in each orthogonal direction when normalized to net power; accounting for efficiency can lead to much larger variability. Position sensitivity of psSAR10g was greater, but in most cases hdSAR remained the limiting quantity.

For thermal simulations, if blood temperature is fixed (i.e., asserting good thermoregulation), maximum temperatures are compliant with International Electrotechnical Commission limits during 60‐min exposure at the SAR limit. Introducing variable blood temperature leads to core temperature changes proportional to whole‐body averaged SAR, exceeding guideline limits for all child models.

Conclusions

Children experienced higher SAR than adults for the 297‐MHz head transmit coil examined in this work. Thermal simulations suggest that core temperature changes could occur in smaller subjects, although experimental data are needed for validation.
Metabolite‐cycled echo‐planar spectroscopic imaging of the human heart
Authors: Peereboom Sophie M. , Kozerke Sebastian
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Spectroscopic imaging could provide insights into regional cardiac triglyceride variations, but is hampered by relatively long scan times. It is proposed to synergistically combine echo‐planar spectroscopic imaging (EPSI) with motion‐adapted gating, weighted acquisition and metabolite cycling to reduce scan times to less than 10 min while preserving spatial‐spectral quality. The method is compared to single‐voxel measurements and to metabolite‐cycled EPSI with conventional acquisition for assessing triglyceride‐to‐water (TG/W) ratios in the human heart.

Methods

Measurements were performed on 10 healthy volunteers using a clinical 1.5T system. EPSI data was acquired both without and with motion‐adapted gating in combination with weighted acquisition to assess TG/W ratios and relative Cramér‐Rao lower bounds (CRLB) of TG. For comparison, single‐voxel (PRESS) spectra were acquired in the interventricular septum.

Results

Bland–Altman analyses did not show a significant bias in TG/W when comparing both metabolite‐cycled EPSI methods to PRESS for any of the cardiac segments. Scan time was 8.05 ± 2.06 min and 17.91 ± 3.93 min for metabolite‐cycled EPSI with and without motion‐adapted gating and weighted acquisition, respectively, while relative CRLB of TG did not differ significantly between the two methods for any of the cardiac segments.

Conclusions

Metabolite‐cycled EPSI with motion‐adapted gating and weighted acquisition allows detecting TG/W ratios in different regions of the in vivo human heart. Scan time is reduced by more than 2‐fold to less than 10 min as compared to conventional acquisition, while keeping the quality of TG fitting constant.
Elastodynamic analyses of transversely isotropic unsaturated subgrade–pavement system under moving loads
Authors: Ye Zi , Ai Zhi Yong
Published: June 2022

In this paper, elastodynamic responses of the layered transversely isotropic unsaturated subgrade–pavement system subjected to the moving load are investigated. The unsaturated subgrade soil is described via a triphasic Biot‐type model introducing the effect of matric suction, immiscible flows of water and air, and transverse isotropy. The rigid pavement is modeled by the Kirchhoff plate theory, while the flexible pavement is modeled by the stratification medium theory. First, the governing equations of the unsaturated subgrade soil are obtained after algebraical manipulations. The precise integration method (PIM) is further combined with the double Fourier transform to solve the governing equations. The subgrade soil solution is utilized as the flexible coefficient to describe the plate–soil interaction, and the solution of the pavement is further acquired via the double inverse Fourier transform. Four verification examples regarding literatures and COMSOL are presented to verify the correctness of the theory. Finally, numerical examples are conducted to investigate the effect of various parameters on the dynamic behavior of the unsaturated subgrade–pavement system.
Effectiveness of nurse‐led discharge service on adult surgical inpatients: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Mao Huina , Xie Yarui , Shen Ying , Wang Mei , Luo Yingxia
Published: June 2022

Aim

To determine the effectiveness of nurse‐led discharge service for adult surgical inpatients.

Design

The report of this review was conducted by the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses (PRISMA) statement checklist.

Methods

The PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library (CENTRAL), MEDLINE and Embase as well as four Chinese databases including CNKI, Wanfang database, VIP database and CBM were searched for randomized controlled trials. Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed risk of bias. And meta‐analyses were conducted for the eligible studies by Review manager 5.4.1.

Results

A total of 1,649 participants were enrolled in 12 randomized controlled trials. The result of readmission rate and emergency visit of intervention group were lower than those of the control group; activities of daily living and quality of life in the intervention group were higher than that of the control group. There was no statistical difference in the length of stay between the two groups.
Obesity prevention across the US: A review of state‐level policies from 2009 to 2019
Authors: Cleveland Lauren P. , Grummon Anna H. , Konieczynski Elsa , Mancini Sally , Rao Anjali , Simon Denise , Block Jason P.
Published: June 2022

Objective

Uniquely, state legislators may enact obesity prevention policies tailored to each state's needs and take diverse policy approaches to address obesity prevalence. The objective of this study was to identify and describe state‐level obesity‐related policies between 2009 and 2019.

Methods

Using a database of legislation covering 2009–2019, researchers categorized obesity‐related legislation by status (proposed/enacted), topic, and environment impacted. Researchers determined the number of policies proposed; enacted, by political party control; obesity prevalence, by states over time.

Results

3256 obesity‐related policies were proposed among 50 states and Washington DC between 2009 and 2019. Collectively, 18% (593) of policies were enacted; California (96), New and Jersey (57) enacted the most. Across environment and topics, the most enacted policies categorized in school environment (226) and school nutrition (150) topic area. Most policies were proposed (496) and enacted (77) in 2011. On average, Democrat‐controlled states had higher enactment rates than Republican‐controlled states, as did states with lower (vs. higher) obesity prevalence.

Conclusions

States have actively pursued obesity‐related legislation across multiple topics and environments from 2009 to 2019, with mixed enactment rates. Evaluating the impact of these policies, alone and in combination, will be important to determine whether these state‐level efforts reduce obesity.
Comparable quality performance between telemedicine and office‐based care for abnormal BMI screening and management
Authors: Baughman Derek , Baughman Kathryn , Jabbarpour Yalda , Waheed Abdul
Published: June 2022

Background

Despite widespread adoption during COVID‐19, there is limited evidence supporting the quality of telemedicine care in managing patients with abnormal BMI.

Objective

To evaluate the comparability of telemedicine and in‐person (office) quality performance for abnormal body mass index (BMI kg/m2) screening and management in primary care.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study measured Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set (HEDIS) quality performance for abnormal BMI screening (patients with BMIs <18.5 or >25 kg/m2 and a qualifying documented follow up plan) across an 8‐hospital integrated health system seen via primary care from 4/1/20 ‐ 9/30/21. Encounters were divided into three exposure groups: office (excluding telemedicine), telemedicine (excluding office), and blended telemedicine (office + telemedicine). Demographic stratification compared group composition. Chi squared tests determined statistical differences in quality performance (p = <0.05).

Results

Demographics of sub‐groups for the 287,387 patients (office: 222,333; telemedicine: 1,556; blended‐telemedicine: 63,489) revealed a modest female predominance, majority ages 26–70, mostly White non‐Hispanics of low health risk, and the majority BMI representation was overweight, followed closely by class 1 obesity. In both HEDIS specified and HEDIS modified performance, blended‐telemedicine performed better than office (12.56%, 95% CI 12.29%–13.01%; 11.16%, 95% CI: 10.85%–11.48%; p < 0.0001); office performed better than telemedicine (4.29%, 95% CI 2.84%–5.54%; 4.79%, 95% CI 3.99%–5.35%; p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Quality performance was highest for blended‐telemedicine, followed by office‐only, then telemedicine‐only. Given the known cost savings, adding telemedicine as a care venue might promote value within health systems without negatively impacting HEDIS performance.
Evidence of alternative trophic pathways for fish consumers in a large river system in the face of invasion
Authors: Gatto John V. , Ickes Brian S. , Chick John H.
Published: June 2022

Large rivers are susceptible to anthropogenic alteration, which can result in drastic changes to their functional ecology. We evaluated spatial–temporal changes in the functional fish communities of the Upper Mississippi River System (UMRS) using data from six study reaches. Species were classified into one of 14 feeding guilds and mass per unit effort (MPUE) was then calculated for each feeding guild annually per gear type. MPUE was standardized using the multigear mean standardization method (MGMS) and log‐transformed. Both ANOSIM and Chi‐square tests were used to determine differences in MPUE among reaches. We then estimated functional diversity by calculating the number of functional groups (N), Margalef's d, Pielou's J′, Shannon's Diversity, and Simpson's Diversity Index. An AR(1) time series model was used to investigate proportional changes in each guild over 25 years. To evaluate the effect of invasive Carp species in invaded reaches, a Chow test was applied to observations between 2000 and 2005. Analyses revealed differences in the functional fish community among reaches. We found differences in functional diversity metrics among study reaches, but there was little evidence that this differed between invaded and non‐invaded reaches. Results determined that invertivore/detritivores have been consistently declining system‐wide, with few groups showing a net change. There was also little evidence that invasion altered the proportion of any functional guild. Evaluating the spatial–temporal patterns of functional communities is beneficial to understanding the resilience of a system and can provide further insight into its trophic needs when considering future restoration initiatives.
Family‐wise error rate control in Gaussian graphical model selection via distributionally robust optimization
Authors: Tran Chau , Cisneros‐Velarde Pedro , Oh Sang‐Yun , Petersen Alexander
Published: June 2022

Recently, a special case of precision matrix estimation based on a distributionally robust optimization (DRO) framework has been shown to be equivalent to the graphical lasso. From this formulation, a method for choosing the regularization term, that is, for graphical model selection, was proposed. In this work, we establish a theoretical connection between the confidence level of graphical model selection via the DRO formulation and the asymptotic family‐wise error rate of estimating false edges. Simulation experiments and real data analyses illustrate the utility of the asymptotic family‐wise error rate control behavior even in finite samples.
Environmental, Physiological and Biochemical Processes Determining the Oxygen Isotope Ratio of Tree-Ring Cellulose
Authors: Song Xin , Lorrey Andrew , Barbour Margaret M.
Published: June 2022

Analysis of the oxygen isotope ratioof tree-ring cellulose (δ18Ocell) is a promising tool for reconstructingpast climatic variations and their influence on terrestrial ecosystems, but control mechanisms of δ18Ocell are multi-faceted, involving a number of fractionation steps along the oxygen transfer pathway from precipitation water to the site of cellulose formation. The goal of the current chapter is to provide an overview of the current knowledge concerning fractionation mechanisms related to δ18Ocell. The review is organized by using the currently widely-used δ18Ocell model as a reference context, and is focused on three main determinants of δ18Ocell: source water isotope ratio (δ18Osw), leaf water isotope enrichment (Δ18Olw), and biochemical fractionations downstream of Δ18Olw. For each component, we summarize environmental, physiological, and/or biochemical processes underlying 18O fractionations, and provide explanations of how these processes are critically relevant for linking δ18Ocell to climatic factors in real-world scenarios. We identify knowledge gaps in mechanistic controls of δ18Ocell, and highlight opportunities for more research to improve upon the existing model.
The Stable Hydrogen Isotopic Signature: From Source Water to Tree Rings
Authors: Lehmann Marco M. , Schuler Philipp , Cormier Marc-André , Allen Scott T. , Leuenberger Markus , Voelker Steve
Published: June 2022

The hydrogen isotopic signature (δ2H) of water in trees contains information on plant functional responses to climatic changes and on the origin of the water. This is also true for the non-exchangeable hydrogen isotopic signature (δ2HNE) of plant organic matter, which contains additional physiological and biochemical information that can be dated to specific years if extracted from annual rings of trees. Despite this potential for gaining unique insights from δ2HNEof tree-ring cellulose (δ2HTRC), it has not been widely used compared to other isotope signals, likely due to challenging methodological constraints and interpretations of these isotopic signals. In this chapter, we first summarize hydrogen isotope (2H-) fractionation that occurs between source water and tree rings and review methods (e.g. nitration, equilibration, position-specific applications) and calculations to determine δ2HNE in tree material. Building upon a summary of the current state of knowledge, this chapter also provides an exhaustive synthesis of δ2HTRC papers, applications, and associated data from approximately 180 sites across the globe (paired with modelled precipitation δ2H values and climate data). The data allow us to investigate the hydrological-climatic effects driving δ2HTRC pattern on a global scale, the relationship of hydrogen with oxygen isotopes in the same tree-ring material, as well as the influence of physiological-biochemical effects (e.g., species differences, tree growth) that appear to be more important on local or temporal scales  than on a large spatial scales. Thus, when local hydro-climatic influences on source water δ2H can be isolated, δ2HTRC gives novel insights on tree physiological responses to abiotic and biotic stresses. We conclude that the growing constellation of tree-ring metrics, including advancements in 2H-processing (i.e., equilibration techniques allowing rapid determinations of δ2HNE) and further refinements to the understanding of post-photosynthetic 2H-fractionations will together provide many new opportunities to understand past climates and ecophysiology by using δ2H in tree rings.
Climate Signals in Stable Isotope Tree-Ring Records
Authors: Gagen Mary , Battipaglia Giovanna , Daux Valerie , Duffy Josie , Dorado-Liñán Isabel , Hayles Laia Andreu , Martínez-Sancho Elisabet , McCarroll Danny , Shestakova Tatiana A. , Treydte Kerstin
Published: June 2022

In this chapter we introduce the climate signal in stable isotope tree-ring records, with the emphasis on temperate forests. The development of the subdiscipline is recapped followed by an exploration of isotope dendroclimatic records by geography and, broadly, by isotopic species. Whilst there are still questions to be answered around signal strength and age-related effects in different environments and in different species, the proxy is now contributing to palaeoclimatology in a far greater way than in the days of the first hints of ‘isotope tree thermometers’. We include two summary tables. Table 19.1 exemplifies the range of climate information available from stable carbon isotope time series and Table 19.2 explores oxygen isotope proxy signals. Due to the greater complexity seen in stable carbon isotope interpretations we explore response groupings with example references given for each category of proxy response. Finally, we summarize the state of the art in isotope dendroclimatology and discuss possible future directions.
Dendrochronology: Fundamentals and Innovations
Authors: Frank David , Fang Keyan , Fonti Patrick
Published: June 2022

This chapter overviews long-standing foundations, methods, and concepts of dendrochronology, yet also pays attention to a few related paradigm shifts driven by isotope measurements in tree-rings. The basics of annual ring formation are first reviewed, followed by structural descriptions of tree-rings at the macroscopic-to-microscopic scale including earlywoodandlatewoodin conifers (gymnosperms) and hardwoods (angiosperms), as well as wood anatomical features. Numerous examples of inter-disciplinary applications connected to various tree-ring parameters are provided. With the foundation of tree-rings established, this chapter then describes the process and necessity for crossdating—the process by which each and every ring is assigned to a specific year. Methods and terminology related to field sampling also briefly described. The long-standing paradigm of site selection criteria—well shown to maximize common signals in tree-ring width datasets—is challenged in a brief discussion of newer tree-ring isotope literature demonstrating that robust chronologies with high signal-to-noise ratios can be obtained at non-ecotonal locations. Opportunities for isotope measurements to enable crossdating in otherwise challenging contexts are likewise highlighted. The chapter reviews a conceptual framework to disaggregate tree-ring time-series, with special attention to detrending and standardization methods used to mitigate tree-age/size related noise common to many applications such as dendroclimatic reconstruction. Some of the drivers of long-term trends in tree-ring isotope data such as the increase in the atmospheric concentration of CO2, age/size/height trends, and climate variation are presented along with related debates/uncertainties evident in literature in order to establish priorities for future investigations. The development of tree-ring chronologies and related quality control metrics used to assess the common signal and the variance of tree-ring data are described, along with the limitations in correlation based statistics to determine the robustness of tree-ring datasets particularly in the low frequency domain. These statistical methods will gain relevance as tree-ring isotope datasets increasingly approach sample replications and dataset structures typical for tree-ring width measurements.
Tree-Ring Stable Isotope Measurements: The Role of Quality Assurance and Quality Control to Ensure High Quality Data
Authors: Brooks J. Renée , Rugh William D. , Werner Roland A.
Published: June 2022

Quality assuranceand quality control(QA/QC) are important components of every study. In this chapter, we give an overview of QA/QC specific for tree-ring stable-isotope analysis from the perspective of the entire research project, rather than from the operation of Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometers (IRMS). We address how users of stable isotope tree-ring data can quantify the quality of their data for reporting in publications by calculating accuracy and precision. We cover some of the potential sources of error that can occur during sample processing and isotopic measurements, basic principles of calibration to the appropriate isotopic scales, and how researchers can detect error and calculate uncertaintyusing duplicatesand quality control standards.
Brownfields as Landscapes
Authors: Modica Marcello
Published: June 2022

To consider and actually treat brownfields as territorial infrastructures it is necessary to overcome the established dichotomy between intensive and extensive models, respectively those focusing on real-estate development and ecological recultivation. A possible way is to assume an holistic landscape perspective capable of conceptually and operatively incorporating these sites into a wider spatial and territorial framework. To this aim, structuralist and systemic approaches to brownfield transformation are reviewed and analyzed through pioneering experiences and relevant thinking patterns within the fields of landscape urbanism, landscape architecture and urban planning and design.
Matching
Authors: Modica Marcello
Published: June 2022

The preliminary results of the previous Mapping, Characterising and Testing phases have provided a comprehensive and multi-scalar description of the complex reality of Alpine brownfields. In this last stage, the same results are synthesized and integrated into a redevelopment matrix, a non-binding programmatic guidance covering the widest possible range of situations to be found in the Alpine region.
Optic disc blood perfusion and oxygenation in glaucoma
Authors: Al Zoubi Hosni , Riemer Thomas , Simon Rowena , Vilser Walthard , Hasan Somar , Meller Daniel , Augsten Regine , Hammer Martin
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To investigate the haemoglobin concentration and oxygenation in the optic disc in glaucoma patients vs. controls.

Methods

Thirty-one eyes of primary open angle glaucoma patients (mean age: 64.9 ± 2.1 years) and 31 eyes of 31 healthy controls (65.5 ± 2.0 years) were included. Perimetry, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and OCT angiography were performed. Multispectral imaging was used to record the optic disc reflectance at wavelengths 522 nm, 548 nm, 555 nm, 586 nm, and 610 nm, and haemoglobin concentration and oxygenation (SO2) were calculated from these measures. This was done in the rest and under stimulation of neuronal activity by flicker light.

Results

The haemoglobin concentration was significantly lower (p < 0.001) in the rim (40.0 ± 6.3) and the excavation (35.7 ± 8.0) of the glaucoma patients’ discs than in controls (45.7 ± 7.5). SO2 was not different in general, but lower in a subgroup of 18 glaucoma patients with ischaemic disc rims than in non-ischaemic ones (median 26.8%, interquartile range (IQR): 29.5% vs. 51.9%, IQR 32.0%, p = 0.02) as well as in controls (41.0%, IQR 30.6%, p = 0.01). Flicker light stimulation significantly increased the haemoglobin concentration in the controls (+ 1.3 ± 3.6, p = 0.048) as well as in the rim of glaucoma discs (+ 2.6 ± 5.0, p = 0.006) and SO2 in the controls only (+ 15.4 ± 23.6%, p = 0.001). The haemoglobin concentration was significantly correlated with the perimetric mean defect, retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickness and para-papillary perfusion density.

Conclusions

The optic disc haemoglobin concentration and oxygenation are quantifiable from multispectral imaging and reduced in glaucoma. The correlation of haemoglobin concentration with perfusion density, RNFL thickness and visual field loss indicates its implication in glaucoma pathology.
Modeling and simulation of diffusion and reaction processes during the staining of tissue sections on slides
Authors: Menning Johannes D. M. , Wallmersperger Thomas , Meinhardt Matthias , Ehrenhofer Adrian
Published: June 2022

Histological slides are an important tool in the diagnosis of tumors as well as of other diseases that affect cell shapes and distributions. Until now, the research concerning an optimal staining time has been mainly done empirically. In experimental investigations, it is often not possible to stain an already-stained slide with another stain to receive further information. To overcome these challenges, in the present paper a continuum-based model was developed for conducting a virtual (re-)staining of a scanned histological slide. This model is capable of simulating the staining of cell nuclei with the dye hematoxylin (C.I. 75,290). The transport and binding of the dye are modeled (i) along with the resulting RGB intensities (ii). For (i), a coupled diffusion–reaction equation is used and for (ii) Beer–Lambert’s law. For the spatial discretization an approach based on the finite element method (FEM) is used and for the time discretization a finite difference method (FDM). For the validation of the proposed model, frozen sections from human liver biopsies stained with hemalum were used. The staining times were varied so that the development of the staining intensity could be observed over time. The results show that the model is capable of predicting the staining process. The model can therefore be used to perform a virtual (re-)staining of a histological sample. This allows a change of the staining parameters without the need of acquiring an additional sample. The virtual standardization of the staining is the first step towards universal cross-site comparability of histological slides.
Are protected areas working for endangered frogs in the Peruvian Andes?
Authors: Watson Andrew S. , Castillo Luis
Published: June 2022

Assessments of the performance of protected-area (PA) networks for aquatic biodiversity conservation are rare yet essential for successful conservation of species. This is especially crucial in highly biodiverse, developing tropical countries where biodiversity loss is most pronounced. We assessed a PA network in the central Andes of Peru that encompasses parts of the geographical distribution of two endangered, endemic, high-elevation Telmatobius frogs. Sites within and beyond PA boundaries were classified into three different PA types: (a) strict-use (prohibits use by local inhabitants), (b) multi-use (allows some use by local inhabitants), and (c) unprotected (no restrictions). We conducted spatial analysis of species distributions, quantified species abundances and population trends, and measured potential threats and ecological integrity in each PA type. Spatial analysis indicated range contractions of 57.7% (T. macrostomus) and 69.0% (T. brachydactylus). Defaunation rates and species abundances in PAs were similar to those outside PAs. Poaching, livestock, and solid waste were the predominant threats. Analysis of ecological integrity indicated that strict-use sites had greater biotic index and habitat assessment scores compared to multi-use sites. These results suggest that despite benefits of greater ecological integrity in strict-use PAs, protection type has little effect on the conservation of aquatic species by itself. Protected areas are unlikely to be effective without better management of the trade-offs between cultural activities and biodiversity conservation. For PA networks to be of better conservation value for aquatic biodiversity in the developing world, they should be community-oriented and connect high-quality habitats, with their borders defined by catchments.
An implicit symplectic solver for high-precision long-term integrations of the Solar System
Authors: Antoñana M. , Alberdi E. , Makazaga J. , Murua A.
Published: June 2022

We present FCIRK16, a 16th-order implicit symplectic integrator for long-term high-precision Solar System simulations. Our integrator takes advantage of the near-Keplerian motion of the planets around the Sun by alternating Keplerian motions with corrections accounting for the planetary interactions. Compared to other symplectic integrators (the Wisdom and Holman map and its higher-order generalizations) that also take advantage of the hierarchical nature of the motion of the planets around the central star, our methods require solving implicit equations at each time-step. We claim that, despite this disadvantage, FCIRK16 is more efficient than explicit symplectic integrators for high-precision simulations thanks to: (i) its high order of precision, (ii) its easy parallelization, and (iii) its efficient mixed-precision implementation which reduces the effect of roundoff errors. In addition, unlike typical explicit symplectic integrators for near-Keplerian problems, FCIRK16 is able to integrate problems with arbitrary perturbations (non-necessarily split as a sum of integrable parts). We present a novel analysis of the effect of close encounters in the leading term of the local discretization errors of our integrator. Based on that analysis, a mechanism to detect and refine integration steps that involve close encounters is incorporated in our code. That mechanism allows FCIRK16 to accurately resolve close encounters of arbitrary bodies. We illustrate our treatment of close encounters with the application of FCIRK16 to a point-mass Newtonian 15-body model of the Solar System (with the Sun, the eight planets, Pluto, and five main asteroids) and a 16-body model treating the Moon as a separate body. We also present some numerical comparisons of FCIRK16 with a state-of-the-art high-order explicit symplectic scheme for 16-body model that demonstrate the superiority of our integrator when very high precision is required.
Effectiveness of Random Field Approach in Serviceability Limit State Analysis of Strip Foundation
Authors: Winkelmann Karol , Żyliński Kamil , Korzec Aleksandra , Górski Jarosław
Published: June 2022

This work conducts a probabilistic inquiry on how the variability of the parameter defining soil deformability affects the settlement of the foundation located on the soil. The analysis addresses the random foundation model to relevantly estimate the probability of allowable deflection exceedance. The constitutive model parameter is based either on a single random variable or a random field. The computations incorporate direct Monte Carlo sampling and the variance reduction techniques, i.e. Stratified Sampling and Latin Hypercube Sampling. The work focuses on soil parameter modelling by random fields defined by various correlation functions. One of the analytical means is the application of a non-homogeneous function capable of reflecting the soil strata. The probabilistic methods proposed in the paper are tested on a standard example of a foundation strip featuring load eccentricity. It is proved that the modelling mode of the soil—a single variable or a random field—substantially affects the results, i.e. foundation settlements. It was detected that incorporating random fields in soil analysis allows for a valid reliability assessment of a foundation in respect to Serviceability Limit State. The relevantly adjusted correlation functions of random fields allow for a realistic subsoil analysis even in the case of a limited in situ measurement database.