bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of pharmaceuticals industrial effluent using GC–MS and FT-IR analyses and defining its toxicity
Authors: Kumari Vineeta , Tripathi A. K.
Published: October 2019

The physicochemical analysis of collected effluent sample for different parameters shown results as pH (pH 5.6 ± 0.11) slightly acidic, high conductivity (1563.34 ± 176 μs cm−1), total dissolved solids (920.34 ± 137 mg L−1), high BOD (7253.34 ± 1022 mg L−1), and COD (756.67 ± 1124 mg L−1) in the effluent sample. The results of heavy metals concentration are viz. as [Cu (1.98–2.56), Co (0.26–0.53), Cd (0.10–0.50), Ni (0.04–0.07), Pb (0.58–1.2), Mn (0.58–1.05), Cr (1.47–1.51), Zn (2.61–3.5), Fe (1.72–2.13), As (0.05–0.09), and Hg (0.003–0.006)]. Results revealed the higher concentration of BOD, COD, TDS, and conductivity and also the concentration of lead. Results of GC–MS also confirmed the high levels of organic pollutants in effluent. Further the effluent toxicity was evaluated by employing genotoxocity assays with the use ofAllium cepaL. (onion) root tip cells. Genotoxicity measured mitotic index (MI) and chromosomal aberrations (CAs) in root tip cells obtained after treatment with effluent of 6.25, 12.5, and 25% concentration (v/v). The results of root growth test showed that inhibition of root growth occurred at effluent concentration ≥ 50% (v/v). The lowest MI was recorded (MI = 9.6%) in 25% of effluent concentration, showing a significant reduction in mitotic index compared with control which MI = 64.1%. Further, the chromosomal aberration was investigated in root tip cell after treating with different concentration ranges of effluent exhibiting various CA, viz. c-mitosis, chromosome loss, chromosome break, micronucleated cells, etc. The result suggests that the effluent contained toxic constituents, which imposed cytotoxic and genotoxic hazard.
Morphology analysis of hexavalent chromium reduction to trivalent chromium with syrup under different pH conditions
Authors: Chen Zi-Fang , Guan Xu , Zhao Yong-Sheng
Published: October 2019

Batch experiments were designed to ascertain the morphology and valence of chromium in the reduction of hexavalent chromium with syrup under different pH conditions. Results indicated that the syrup reduced hexavalent chromium to trivalent chromium, and the existing forms of Cr were mainly Cr(OH)3, CrOOH and CrOOH–Fe. The percentage of Fe–Mn oxide-bound state was 29.28%, 29.28%, 22.22% and 20.12%, respectively, and the percentage of organic binding state was 64.71%, 66.58%, 74.74% and 73.14%, respectively, in the reaction systems at different pH (2.0, 2.5, 3.0 5.6) conditions.
The wastage of the cotton stalks (Gossypium hirsutum L.) as low-cost adsorbent for removal of the Basic Green 5 dye from aqueous solutions
Authors: Akperov Elchin O. , Akperov Oktay H.
Published: October 2019

Cotton stalks (Gossypium hirsutum L.) waste was investigated as a low-cost and effective adsorbent for the adsorption of Basic Green 5 dye from aqueous solution. The effects of pH solution, initial dye concentration, contact time, sorbent dosage and temperature on the adsorption parameters were investigated. The Langmuir, Freundlich and Dubinin–Radushkevich adsorption models were evaluated using the experimental data. The maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 42.37 mg g−1 from the Langmuir isotherm model at 20 °C. The dimensionless separation factor (RL) values lie between 0.129 and 0.423, indicated favorable adsorption. The adsorption rate data were analyzed according to the Lagergren pseudo-first- and pseudo-second-order kinetic models. It was found that kinetic followed a pseudo-second-order model. The negative values of the ΔG° at 293–323 K and the positive value of the ΔH° (13.585 kJ mol−1) indicate that the sorption process is spontaneous and endothermic in nature. The positive value of ΔS° (0.0467 kJ mol−1 K−1) shows the increasing randomness during adsorption process. The mean adsorption energy from Dubinin–Radushkevich equation was found to be 11.63 kC mol−1, indicating that the adsorption of the Basic Green 5 by cotton stalks occurred through chemical interaction mechanism. The offered mechanism of adsorptive process of the Basic Green 5 dye on a surface of the sorbent, obtained on the basis of cotton stalks, considers forming a complex between dye and sorbent.
Differently substituted aniline functionalized MWCNTs to anchor oxides of Bi and Ni nanoparticles
Authors: Bhakta Arvind K. , Kumari Sunita , Hussain Sahid , Detriche Simon , Delhalle Joseph , Mekhalif Zineb
Published: October 2019

We have studied the consequence of different functionalization types onto the decoration of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) surface by nanoparticles of bismuth and nickel oxides. Three organic molecules were considered for the functionalization: 5-amino-1,2,3-benzenetricarboxylic acid, 4-aminobenzylphosphonic acid and sulfanilic acid. Nanotubes modification with in situ created diazonium salts followed by their impregnation with suitable salts [ammonium bismuth citrate and nickel (II) nitrate hexahydrate] utilizing infrared (IR) irradiation was found the crucial stage in the homogeneous impregnation of functionalized CNTs. Furthermore, calcination of these samples in argon environment gave rise to controlled decorated MWCNTs. The currently used technique is simple as well as effective. The synthesized materials were characterized by XPS, PXRD, FESEM, EDX, HRTEM and Raman spectroscopy. Bismuth oxide decorations were successfully performed using 5-amino-1,2,3-benzenetricarboxylic acid (particle size ranges from 1 to 10 nm with mean diameter ~ 2.4 nm) and 4-aminobenzylphosphonic acid (particle size ranges from 1 to 6 nm with mean diameter ~ 1.9 nm) functionalized MWCNTs. However, only 4-aminobenzylphosphonic acid functionalized MWCNTs showed strong affinity towards oxides of nickel nanoparticles (mainly in hydroxide form, particles size ranging from 1 to 6 nm with mean diameter ~ 2.3 nm). Thus, various functions arranged in the order of their increasing anchoring capacities are as follows: sulfonic < carboxylic < phosphonic. The method is valid for large-scale preparations. These advanced nanocomposites are potential candidates for various applications in nanotechnology.

Graphic abstract
CNT/High Mass Loading MnO2/Graphene-Grafted Carbon Cloth Electrodes for High-Energy Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Lyu Lulu , Seong Kwang-dong , Kim Jong Min , Zhang Wang , Jin Xuanzhen , Kim Dae Kyom , Jeon Youngmoo , Kang Jeongmin , Piao Yuanzhe
Published: October 2019

Flexible supercapacitor electrodes with high mass loading are crucial for obtaining favorable electrochemical performance but still challenging due to sluggish electron and ion transport. Herein, rationally designed CNT/MnO2/graphene-grafted carbon cloth electrodes are prepared by a “graft-deposit-coat” strategy. Due to the large surface area and good conductivity, graphene grafted on carbon cloth offers additional surface areas for the uniform deposition of MnO2 (9.1 mg cm−2) and facilitates charge transfer. Meanwhile, the nanostructured MnO2 provides abundant electroactive sites and short ion transport distance, and CNT coated on MnO2 acts as interconnected conductive “highways” to accelerate the electron transport, significantly improving redox reaction kinetics. Benefiting from high mass loading of electroactive materials, favorable conductivity, and a porous structure, the electrode achieves large areal capacitances without compromising rate capability. The assembled asymmetric supercapacitor demonstrates a wide working voltage (2.2 V) and high energy density of 10.18 mWh cm−3.
Massive open online courses (MOOCs) for long-distance education in geriatric medicine across Europe
Authors:   SCOPE investigators, Roller-Wirnsberger Regina , Zitta Sabine , Herzog Carolin , Dornan Hannah , Lindner Sonja , Rehatschek Herwig , Hye Florian , Kolosovski Lea , Wirnsberger Gerhard , Corsonello Andrea , Tap Lisanne , Kostka Tomasz , Guligowska Agnieszka , Mattace-Raso Francesco , Gil Pedro , Guardado Fuentes Lara , Artzi-Medvedik Rada , Yehoshua Ilan , Formiga Francesc , Moreno-Gonzalez Rafael , Sieber Cornel , Freiberger Ellen , Ärnlöv Johan , Carlsson Axel C. , Lattanzio Fabrizia
Published: October 2019

Purpose

To cover the increasing need for professional knowledge, skills and competences in the care of older people, new learning techniques have been developed. Using the Internet to provide educational material has come into focus of many academic institutions as the learning content can easily be transferred to a larger audience. Since the first launch of a “massive open online course” (MOOC) in 2008, this educational format has raised increasing interest among education experts. The current publication provides insight into the new format of MOOCs in general and specifically describes a MOOC developed by a Pan-European Consortium “Screening for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) among Older People across Europe” (SCOPE), a project funded by the European Commission under the umbrella of the Horizon 2020 program.

Methods

Technical background, learning theories and content of the MOOC of the SCOPE project are presented in this overview.

Results

The MOOC of the SCOPE project is provided on the MOOC ICT platform iMoox. The courses are built up of video clips, textual descriptions, graphics, animations and audio designed with a clear structure and learning goals. The concise video clips with a maximum length of 15–20 min are equipped with additional learning material such as documents, links and asynchronous communication opportunities.

Conclusion

MOOCs are recognized as a contemporary approach to transfer required knowledge and skills not only in general but also in geriatric medicine, as the health and social care environment is ever-changing and becoming more complex.
Development and preliminary verification of the evaluation system for clinical practice guidelines in China☆
Authors: Wang Ji‐Yao , Wang Qiang , Wang Xiao‐Qin , Jin Xue‐Juan , Zhang Bo‐Heng , Chen Shi‐Yao , Gao Xue‐Cheng
Published: October 2019

Objective

Clinical practice guidelines can improve healthcare processes and patient outcomes; however, the quality of these guidelines varies greatly in China. The aim of this study was to construct a comprehensive instrument for the appraisal of clinical practice guidelines in China (AGREE‐CHINA), and to validate its reliability as a tool for helping potential guideline users in assessing guideline quality.

Methods

First, an interdisciplinary working group was established for developing the methods. They also created a checklist as a tool according to the Appraisal of Guidelines, Research and Evaluation II (AGREE II) standards, considering the particularity of Chinese clinical practice. Next, the first draft of AGREE‐China was developed by vote, modification, preliminary trial, and cross‐verification. To ensure the objectivity, credibility, and reproducibility of the draft assessment, all of the checklists and standards were cross‐reviewed fairly widely. Finally, AGREE‐CHINA and AGREE II were used to assess the Chinese guidelines published in the past five years, and the results were compared.

Results

The presented AGREE‐CHINA covered five main checkpoints (science and rigor, effectiveness and safety, economy, usability and feasibility, and conflicts of interest) with each point divided into several more specific checkpoints. Definitions and rationales for each main checkpoint appear in the Appendix. The quality ratings based on the total scores of AGREE‐China and AGREE II were consistent (r = 0.508, P = 0.020). Compared with AGREE II, the study showed a higher level of interrater‐reliability for AGREE‐CHINA overall (ICC = 0.957, P < 0.001). The mean time required for AGREE‐CHINA was less than that for AGREE II; this was approximately 30 minutes for every assessment. User satisfaction was generally high.

Conclusions

This paper has presented the first edition of the AGREE‐CHINA appraisal tool for clinical guidelines. It is quick and easy to use; it assesses and performs well in comparison to AGREE II. This first version of AGREE‐CHINA will require further development and validation.
Rethinking customer on-boarding: why banks should embrace biometrics
Authors: Setsaas John Erik
Published: October 2019

First impressions last – it's a cliché, but no less true for that. For financial services providers, that first impression is the customer on-boarding process: taking someone who has been convinced to open an account through the application and identity process.
FORUM ON KATHARINE GERBNER'S CHRISTIAN SLAVERY: CONVERSION AND RACE IN THE PROTESTANT ATLANTIC WORLD
Authors: Sensbach Jon
Published: October 2019

Between roughly 1500 and nearly the end of the nineteenth century, slave traders sent more than twelve million enslaved Africans to the Americas. It is no secret that Christianity was deeply complicit with the rise of the plantation system that created the lethally voracious demand for forced labor. Two basic questions have preoccupied historians studying the links between religion and slavery: why did Christianity become an ideological bulwark for human bondage; and why did enslaved Africans and their descendants begin to embrace a religion so friendly to slavery, inverting it into a spiritual vernacular of liberation and transcendence? Whereas historians of Atlantic world Protestantism have mostly probed these questions in their North American contexts, Katherine Gerbner's book, Christian Slavery: Conversion and Race in the Protestant Atlantic World, shifts the focus to the Caribbean of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Protestant missionaries there began proselytizing among enslaved Africans at least half a century earlier than in North America, creating connections between race, religion, and slavery that would prove perniciously durable across both time and region. In this forum, four distinguished scholars consider the implications of Gerbner's work.
Emerging topics in scientific research on global water-use efficiency
Authors: Aleixandre-Tudó J. L. , Castelló-Cogollos L. , Aleixandre J. L. , Aleixandre-Benavent R.
Published: October 2019

A bibliometric analysis of research articles published on water-use efficiency was performed using the Web of Science database and evaluated. Journal titles, publication years, subject categories, keywords and countries publishing were obtained. A number of 2077 papers were retrieved, two-thirds of them published in the last decade. The articles were published in 439 journals, withAgricultural Water Management,Agronomy Journal, Crop Science, Field Crops ResearchandIndian Journal of Agricultural Sciencesthe most productive. Most of the leading productive journals have Impact Factors in the top quartiles of the Journal Citation Reports. Agronomy, Plant Sciences, Water Resources and Agriculture Multidisciplinary were the most common journal subject categories, indicating a wide diversity of research fields ascribed to this topic. The predominant key words and phrases used were growth, ‘carbon isotope discrimination’, yield, photosynthesis, ‘gas exchange’, evapotranspiration and ‘stomatal conductance’. The productivity ranking for countries was headed by China (456 papers), followed by the USA (410), Australia (176) and India (165). A content analysis of the papers made identification of the key issues of greatest scientific concern possible, as well as their evolution over time. The most cited papers relate to physiological aspects, but also important studies on experimental biology, drought resistance, effects of climate, crop production and ecology, among others.
Characterizing psychosis-relevant phenomena and cognitive function in a unique population with isolated, chronic and very heavy cannabis exposure
Authors: D'Souza Deepak Cyril , Ganesh Suhas , Cortes-Briones Jose , Campbell Michael H. , Emmanuel Maisha K.
Published: October 2019

Background

The literature on psychosis-relevant outcomes in cannabis users does not adequately address the confounding effects of other substance use/misuse and psychiatric disorders.

Methods

We studied a unique population for whom cannabis use is central and necessary to their way of life. They are forbidden from using other substances, including tobacco and alcohol. Their use of cannabis is heavy, chronic, and begins early. The cases were compared with matched controls who did not use cannabis, alcohol, or drugs. The controls were from the same location and shared similar beliefs and lifestyle, except for cannabis use. Attenuated psychosis-relevant phenomena were assessed with the Schizotypal Personality Questionnaire (SPQ) and cognitive functioning with a culture-neutral computerized cognitive battery.

Results

Fifteen cases and 12 matched controls were studied. The cases averaged >30 000 lifetime cannabis exposures. Relative to controls, the cases had significantly higher mean (s.d.) SPQ scores 24 (14.32) v. 13 (8.92), p = 0.031; and poorer cognitive performance, reflected by a lower mean (s.d.) composite cognitive score −0.23 (0.32) v. +0.28 (0.52), p = 0.03. Moderate to large effect sizes were noted for differences in tests of attention, psychomotor speed, working memory, cognitive flexibility, visuo-spatial processing, and verbal memory. A subsample of cases had higher SPQ scores and worse cognitive performance than their siblings not using cannabis.

Conclusion

Heavy, chronic, and early cannabis use that is not confounded by other drug use is associated with psychosis-relevant phenomena and cognitive deficits. The findings are relevant to the evolving attitudes and laws about cannabis.
An eating pattern characterised by skipped or delayed breakfast is associated with mood disorders among an Australian adult cohort
Authors: Wilson J. E. , Blizzard L. , Gall S. L. , Magnussen C. G. , Oddy W. H. , Dwyer T. , Sanderson K. , Venn A. J. , Smith K. J.
Published: October 2019

Background

Meal timing may influence food choices, neurobiology and psychological states. Our exploratory study examined if time-of-day eating patterns were associated with mood disorders among adults.

Methods

During 2004–2006 (age 26–36 years) and 2009–2011 (follow-up, age 31–41 years), N = 1304 participants reported 24-h food and beverage intake. Time-of-day eating patterns were derived by principal components analysis. At follow-up, the Composite International Diagnostic Interview measured lifetime mood disorder. Log binomial and adjacent categories log-link regression were used to examine bidirectional associations between eating patterns and mood disorder. Covariates included sex, age, marital status, social support, education, work schedule, body mass index and smoking.

Results

Three patterns were derived at each time-point: Grazing (intake spread across the day), Traditional (highest intakes reflected breakfast, lunch and dinner), and Late (skipped/delayed breakfast with higher evening intakes). Compared to those in the lowest third of the respective pattern at baseline and follow-up, during the 5-year follow-up, those in the highest third of the Late pattern at both time-points had a higher prevalence of mood disorder [prevalence ratio (PR) = 2.04; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.20–3.48], and those in the highest third of the Traditional pattern at both time-points had a lower prevalence of first onset mood disorder (PR = 0.31; 95% CI 0.11–0.87). Participants who experienced a mood disorder during follow-up had a 1.07 higher relative risk of being in a higher Late pattern score category at follow-up than those without mood disorder (95% CI 1.00–1.14).

Conclusions

Non-traditional eating patterns, particularly skipped or delayed breakfast, may be associated with mood disorders.
A randomised clinical trial to evaluate the acceptability and efficacy of an early phase, online, guided augmentation of outpatient care for adults with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Cardi Valentina , Albano Gaia , Ambwani Suman , Cao Li , Crosby Ross D. , Macdonald Pamela , Schmidt Ulrike , Treasure Janet
Published: October 2019

Background

Outpatient interventions for adult anorexia nervosa typically have a modest impact on weight and eating disorder symptomatology. This study examined whether adding a brief online intervention focused on enhancing motivation to change and the development of a recovery identity (RecoveryMANTRA) would improve outcomes in adults with anorexia nervosa.

Methods

Participants with anorexia nervosa (n= 187) were recruited from 22 eating disorder outpatient services throughout the UK. They were randomised to receiving RecoveryMANTRA in addition to treatment as usual (TAU) (n= 99; experimental group) or TAU only (n= 88; control group). Outcomes were measured at end-of-intervention (6 weeks), 6 and 12 months.

Results

Adherence rates to RecoveryMANTRA were 83% for the online guidance sessions and 77% for the use of self-help materials (workbook and/or short video clips). Group differences in body mass index at 6 weeks (primary outcome) were not significant. Group differences in eating disorder symptoms, psychological wellbeing and work and social adjustment (at 6 weeks and at follow-up) were not significant, except for a trend-level greater reduction in anxiety at 6 weeks in the RecoveryMANTRA group (p= 0.06). However, the RecoveryMANTRA group had significantly higher levels of confidence in own ability to change (p= 0.02) and alliance with the therapist at the outpatient service (p= 0.005) compared to the control group at 6 weeks.

Conclusions

Augmenting outpatient treatment for adult anorexia nervosa with a focus on recovery and motivation produced short-term reductions in anxiety and increased confidence to change and therapeutic alliance.
Time- and place-dependent experiences of loneliness in assisted living facilities
Authors: Jansson Anu H. , Karisto Antti , Pitkälä Kaisu H.
Published: October 2019

The purpose of the study is to explore feelings of loneliness among residents in assisted living facilities in terms of how loneliness is experienced and articulated, and what specific factors are related to the experiences. The study used a mixed-method approach. We individually interviewed 13 residents twice over six months. We conducted two focus group interviews and noted our observations each time we met the respondents. Data analysis leaned on abductive reasoning. The respondents described loneliness in versatile, rich ways. It proved to be time and place dependent. It was dependent on the time of day, days of the week and seasons. Lonely time was meaningless and filled with a feeling of waiting. Loneliness was also intertwined with place. None of the respondents called their apartment home; instead they called it a hospital, even a prison. They had to spend long periods of time in their apartments against their will, and their desire to interact with other residents was not met. The respondents felt invisible. Residents’ experiences of loneliness in assisted living facilities are unique and distinctive. Time- and place-dependent experiences of loneliness act as important signals for reflection on how care practices in these facilities could be more satisfying. Loneliness should therefore be a key topic and the target of prevention and interventions.
ALBERT THE GREAT ON NATURE AND THE PRODUCTION OF HERMAPHRODITES: THEORETICAL AND PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
Authors: RESNICK IRVEN M.
Published: October 2019

Despite its rarity, hermaphroditism is often discussed in medieval texts in theoretical and practical contexts by canonists, theologians, and natural philosophers. For the canonist or theologian, hermaphroditism raised questions concerning baptism, marriage, entry to clerical orders, and legal status. For the natural philosopher, the hermaphrodite seemed to violate the strict dichotomy of male and female. Here I examine Albert the Great's natural-philosophical treatment of hermaphroditism. Albert rejects the view that hermaphrodites constitute a “third sex” and instead invokes Aristotle's authority to show that hermaphrodites are a “monstrous” flaw in nature. He carefully investigates the manner in which nature produces hermaphrodites in the womb and introduces a discussion of the generative capacity of hermaphrodites themselves. He concludes that they are incapable of reproducing in and of themselves (i.e., they are incapable of auto-fecundation) although they seem able to generate in another individual through coition.
Usable Science for Managing the Risks of Sea‐Level Rise
Authors: Kopp Robert E. , Gilmore Elisabeth A. , Little Christopher M. , Lorenzo‐Trueba Jorge , Ramenzoni Victoria C. , Sweet William V.
Published: October 2019

Sea‐level rise sits at the frontier of usable climate climate change research, because it involves natural and human systems with long lags, irreversible losses, and deep uncertainty. For example, many of the measures to adapt to sea‐level rise involve infrastructure and land‐use decisions, which can have multigenerational lifetimes and will further influence responses in both natural and human systems. Thus, sea‐level science has increasingly grappled with the implications of (1) deep uncertainty in future climate system projections, particularly of human emissions and ice sheet dynamics; (2) the overlay of slow trends and high‐frequency variability (e.g., tides and storms) that give rise to many of the most relevant impacts; (3) the effects of changing sea level on the physical exposure and vulnerability of ecological and socioeconomic systems; and (4) the challenges of engaging stakeholder communities with the scientific process in a way that genuinely increases the utility of the science for adaptation decision making. Much fundamental climate system research remains to be done, but many of the most critical issues sit at the intersection of natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, decision science, and political economy. Addressing these issues demands a better understanding of the coupled interactions of mean and extreme sea levels, coastal geomorphology, economics, and migration; decision‐first approaches that identify and focus research upon those scientific uncertainties most relevant to concrete adaptation choices; and a political economy that allows usable science to become used science.
Quaternary Activity of the Beihewan Fault in the Southeastern Beishan Wrench Belt, Western China: Implications for Crustal Stability and Intraplate Earthquake Hazards North of Tibet
Authors: Yang Haibo , Yang Xiaoping , Zhan Yan , Cunningham Dickson , Zhao Lingqiang , Sun Xiangyu , Hu Zongkai , Huang Xiongnan , Huang Weiliang , Miao Shuqing
Published: October 2019

We present evidence for the Late Quaternary activity of the Beihewan Fault (BHWF), along the southeastern margin of the Beishan block, western China. Field observations and analysis of UAV‐derived DEMs and Google Earth images reveal an ~10‐km‐long active fault trace in a region previously considered tectonically inactive. Offset landforms and trench exposures reveal that the fault is dominantly strike‐slip, with local thrust or normal displacements. Average rates of left‐lateral motion and thrusting since the Holocene are estimated to be ~2.69 and ~0.35 mm/a, respectively. The most recent surface‐rupturing event generated ~2.5 m of strike‐slip offset since 6.2–8.6 ka; with estimatedM= 6.3–6.9. Modeling and two‐dimensional inversion of new magnetotelluric data indicate that the BHWF is a subvertical low‐resistivity zone that penetrates into the lower crust. Existing geological and geophysical evidence do not support subsurface linkage between the BHWF and Altyn Tagh–Jinta‐Nanshan Fault system further south in the Hexi Corridor. Close examination of high‐resolution satellite imagery west and east of the BHWF reveals other Quaternary surface fault scarps, pressure ridges, offset drainages, and truncated lithological strike belts. Collectively, these features constitute a previously unrecognized 150‐km‐long sinistral deforming belt along the southeastern Beishan and northern Hexi Corridor boundary that we call the Southeast Beishan Wrench Belt. Recognition of Quaternary activity along the BHWF within the larger Southeast Beishan Wrench Belt challenges long‐held assumptions that the Beishan region is a relatively stable and tectonically inactive block within the Late Cenozoic Indo‐Eurasian deformation field north of Tibet.
Time‐Space Sampling‐Related Uncertainties of Altimetric Global Mean Sea Level Estimates
Authors: Scharffenberg Martin G. , Stammer Detlef
Published: October 2019

Uncertainty measures for global mean sea level (GMSL) estimates are quantified, resulting from limited (in space and time) along‐track altimetric sampling of the global sea level field by altimetric satellite missions. To estimate such sampling‐related uncertainty, sea surface height (SSH) fields simulated by the high‐resolution STORM/NCEP ocean circulation model were subsampled along altimeter tracks for the period 1993–2010 and subsequently processed into global SSH averages using similar techniques to those used by six groups worldwide. Results show that the underlying satellite space‐time sampling has a substantial impact on the accuracy of GMSL estimates. This uncertainty originates primarily from data missing over sea ice‐covered regions; omitted data from shallow seas also contributes. Uncertainties in GMSL estimates result both from interpolation techniques required to fill data gaps such as missing tracks, and the choice of the mean sea surface required to estimate SSH anomalies. Cumulative effects lead to errors in GMSL estimates from ∼0.8 to ∼3.2 mm (root‐mean‐square, RMS), depending on the underlying details of the estimation method. Results suggest that sampling limitations in meridional direction are a fundamental constraint on the accuracy level reachable for any altimetric GMSL estimate, resulting in a systematic Gaussian uncertainty of about 1.2 mm (RMS), 50% of which occurs on monthly time scales, while some fraction occurs on time scales of several years. In all cases, a significant fraction of the error results from a mass exchange between the global ocean and sea ice‐covered polar regions. Contributions from data processing details are measurable but less significant.
Controls on Eolian Landscape Evolution in Fractured Bedrock
Authors: Perkins Jonathan P. , Finnegan Noah J. , de Silva Shanaka L. , Willis Michael J.
Published: October 2019

Wind abrasion is important for planetary landscape evolution, and wind‐abraded bedrock landscapes contain many landforms that are difficult to interpret. Here we exploit a natural experiment in Chile where topographic shielding by an upwind lava flow yields diverse erosional landforms in a downwind ignimbrite. Using a 3‐D topographic wind model, we find that low velocities in the wake of a lava lobe coincide with a transition from landforms reflecting fracture‐parallel erosion to flow‐parallel erosion. Erosion rates across these landforms vary with shear velocity and abrasion susceptibility of the windward escarpment. We hypothesize that this morphologic threshold is controlled by whether particles can be lofted in suspension and overcome topographic steering imposed by fractured bedrock blocks. Within a phase space set by Rouse and Stokes numbers, our data illustrate that wind‐abraded landforms reflect a competition between the material skeleton of the landscape and the strength of the flow that shapes it.
North Atlantic and Pacific Quasi‐Stationary Parts of Atmospheric Rivers and Their Implications for East Asian Monsoon Onset
Authors: Lee Hung‐I , Mitchell Jonathan L. , Tripati Aradhna , Lora Juan M. , Chen Gang , Ding Qinghua
Published: October 2019

Using a global space‐time diagram of column water vapor (CWV) at 30° N latitude from daily reanalysis data, we find two quasi‐stationary parts of atmospheric rivers (QSARs) that feature locally enhanced CWV and evolve from the Eastern Pacific/Atlantic basins in the winter to the Western Pacific/Atlantic in the summer. East Asian Summer Monsoon onset coincides with the time CWV in the Pacific QSAR first exceeds 40 mm, which also typically occurs just before it makes landfall. QSARs exist in 39‐year (1979–2017) daily climatological CWV, demonstrating the seasonal cycles of these features are quasi‐stationary and potentially useful for monsoon onset prediction. East Asian Summer Monsoon onset is particularly predictable following El Niño‐Southern Oscillation, consistently occurring 25–40 days after the QSAR crosses the dateline. Analysis of local wave activity reveals QSARs as fronts of wave breakings, thus opening a new window into dynamics of subtropical monsoon extensions.
Radiative Forcing and Health Impact of Aerosols and Ozone in China as the Consequence of Clean Air Actions over 2012–2017
Authors: Dang Ruijun , Liao Hong
Published: October 2019

We applied the chemical transport model GEOS‐Chem to examine the changes in aerosols and tropospheric O3 in China from 2012–2017 and the associated radiative forcing and health impact. Simulated surface layer concentrations and column burdens of aerosols and O3 were evaluated by comparing with ground‐based and satellite‐retrieved measurements. Between 2012 and 2017, simulated annual mean concentrations of PM2.5 decreased by 21.0%, while O3 increased by 11.9% over eastern China (20–45°N, 105–122.5°E). Changes in aerosols and O3 over 2012–2017 jointly exerted a positive radiative forcing of 1.26 W/m2 over eastern China, which was dominated by the less cooling from PM2.5 reductions (1.18 W/m2). The Global Exposure Mortality Model predicted 268.3 (247.3–291.6) thousand (9.6%) fewer deaths in eastern China in 2017 relative to 2012. These results suggest an appreciable health benefit and a potential warming as a consequence of clean air actions.
The Formation of Forced Folds and Wing‐Like Sand Intrusions Driven by Pore Fluid Overpressure: Implications From 2‐D Experimental Modeling
Authors: Warsitzka Michael , Kukowski Nina , May Franz
Published: October 2019

Sand injections form by intrusion of overpressured, fluidized sand into surrounding low‐permeable, fine‐grained rocks. Modern 3‐D seismic data revealed their abundant occurrence in many sedimentary basins and that their intrusion is typically associated with forced folding and tensile fractures of the sealing cover layer. In order to investigate the kinematic evolution of forced folds in relation to the associated propagation of fractures originating from an overpressured source layer, we performed idealized, quasi‐2‐D analog experiments. The models consist of noncohesive and cohesive granulates to mimic a sand reservoir and its overburden layer and injected air to produce fluid overpressure in the layered materials. Our results show that forced folding first induces tensile bending fractures at the base of the fold limbs at a certain critical fluid pressure. Due to further increase of the fluid pressure, the apex of these bending fractures serves as origin for branching, conical fractures characterized by shear and tensile failure. Fracture breakthrough is accompanied by a rapid uplift of the breached fold limb and a pressure drop in the reservoir layer followed by a continuous subsidence of the central forced fold. The morphology of the fracture pattern and the forced fold provides helpful implications for understanding formation processes of natural sand injections observed in seismic data and in outcrops.
Quantification of 3‐D Thermal Anomalies From Surface Observations of an Orogenic Geothermal System (Grimsel Pass, Swiss Alps)
Authors: Wanner Christoph , Diamond Larryn W. , Alt‐Epping Peter
Published: October 2019

Geothermal systems in amagmatic orogens involve topography‐driven infiltration of meteoric water up to 10 km deep into regional‐scale faults and exfiltration of the heated water in surface springs. The thermal anomalies along the upflow zones have not been quantified, yet they are key to estimating the geothermal exploitation potential of such systems. Here we quantify the three‐dimensional heat anomaly below the orogenic geothermal system at Grimsel Pass, Swiss Alps, where warm springs emanate from an exhumed, fossil hydrothermal zone. We use discharge rates and temperatures of the springs, temperature measurements along a shallow tunnel, and the formation temperature and depth of the fossil system to constrain coupled thermal–hydraulic numerical simulations of the upflow zone. The simulations reveal that upflow rates act as a first‐order control on the temperature distribution and that the site is underlain by an ellipsoidal thermal plume enclosing 102–103 PJ of anomalous heat per km depth. When the fossil system was active (3.3 Ma), the thermal plume was double its present size, corresponding to a theoretical petrothermal power output of 30–220 MW, with the 120 °C threshold for geothermal electricity production situated at less than 2‐km depth. We conclude that mountainous orogenic belts without igneous activity and even with only low background geothermal gradients typical of waning orogens are surprisingly promising plays for petrothermal power production. Our study implies exploration should focus on major valley floors because there the hydraulic head gradients and thus upflow rates and heat anomalies reach maximum values.
Modeling of Internal Tides in the Western Bay of Bengal: Characteristics and Energetics
Authors: Jithin A. K. , Francis P. A. , Unnikrishnan A. S. , Ramakrishna S. S. V. S.
Published: October 2019

Generation and propagation of internal tides in the western Bay of Bengal (BoB) are investigated using observations from Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers and simulations from a very high resolution numerical ocean model. Observations show that semidiurnal internal tides in the southern and northern parts of the western BoB are more energetic during neap phase of the local barotropic tide than those during spring phase. Numerical simulations indicate that internal tides generated over the Andaman‐Nicobar Ridge propagate westward for about 1,000–1,450 km across the BoB and finally impinge on the continental slopes off the east coast of India after 5–7 days. Energetic internal tides observed during the neap phase of the barotropic tides in the western BoB are mainly due to the arrival of remotely generated internal tides. We show that the variation in the onshore transmission of these remotely generated internal tides due to the topographic slope in the western BoB controls the strength of internal tide activity along the shelf. Superposition of reflected internal tides from continental slope, which are very steep in some regions and onshore propagating‐waves generate partly standing waves. Numerical experiments suggest that internal tides coming from remote sources account for more than 80% of the total internal tide energy observed in the western BoB. Internal tide energy dissipation on the continental margins of the western BoB is about 3 to 4 times larger than the local generation, indicating that this region is a sink for remotely generated internal tide energy.
Shelfbreak Downwelling in the Alaskan Beaufort Sea
Authors: Foukal Nicholas P. , Pickart Robert S. , Moore G. W. K. , Lin Peigen
Published: October 2019

The oceanographic response and atmospheric forcing associated with downwelling along the Alaskan Beaufort Sea shelf/slope is described using mooring data collected from August 2002 to September 2004, along with meteorological time series, satellite data, and reanalysis fields. In total, 55 downwelling events are identified with peak occurrence in July and August. Downwelling is initiated by cyclonic low‐pressure systems displacing the Beaufort High and driving westerly winds over the region. The shelfbreak jet responds by accelerating to the east, followed by a depression of isopycnals along the outer shelf and slope. The storms last 3.25 ± 1.80 days, at which point conditions relax toward their mean state. To determine the effect of sea ice on the oceanographic response, the storms are classified into four ice seasons: open water, partial ice, full ice, and fast ice (immobile). For a given wind strength, the largest response occurs during partial ice cover, while the most subdued response occurs in the fast ice season. Over the two‐year study period, the winds were strongest during the open water season; thus, the shelfbreak jet intensified the most during this period and the cross‐stream Ekman flow was largest. During downwelling, the cold water fluxed off the shelf ventilates the upper halocline of the Canada Basin. The storms approach the Beaufort Sea along three distinct pathways: a northerly route from the high Arctic, a westerly route from northern Siberia, and a southerly route from south of Bering Strait. Differences in the vertical structure of the storms are presented as well.
A Multi‐Phase Mass Flow Model
Authors: Pudasaini Shiva P. , Mergili Martin
Published: October 2019

Geomorphic mass flows are often complex in terms of material composition and its evolution in space and time. The simulation of those hazardous phenomena would strongly benefit from a multi‐phase model, considering the motion and—importantly—interaction of phases characterized by different physical aspects including densities, frictions, viscosities, fractions, and their mechanical responses. However, such a genuine multi‐phase model is still lacking. Here, we present a first‐ever, multi‐mechanical, multi‐phase mass flow model composed of three different phases: the coarse solid fraction, fine‐solid fraction, and viscous fluid. The coarse solid component, called solid, represents boulders, cobbles, gravels, or blocks of ice. Fine‐solid represents fine particles and sand, whereas water and very fine particles, including colloids, silt, and clay, constitute the viscous fluid component in the mixture. The involved materials display distinct mechanical responses and dynamic behaviors. Therefore, the solid, fine‐solid, and fluid phases are described by Coulomb‐plastic, shear‐ and pressure‐dependent plasticity‐dominated viscoplastic, and viscosity‐dominated viscoplastic rheologies. They are supposed to best represent those materials. The new model is flexible and addresses some long‐standing issues of multi‐phase mass flows on how to reliably describe the flow dynamics, runout, and deposition morphology of such type of phenomena. With reference to some benchmark simulations, the essence of the model and its applicability are discussed.
Neurocognitive and social-communicative function of children born very preterm at 10 years of age: Associations with microorganisms recovered from the placenta parenchyma
Authors: Tomlinson Martha Scott , Santos Hudson P. , Stewart Jill R. , Joseph Robert , Leviton Alan , Onderdonk Andrew B. , Kuban Karl C. K. , Heeren Timothy , O’Shea T. Michael , Fry Rebecca C. ,   for the ELGAN Study Investigators, Shah Bhahvesh , Singh Rachana , Van Marter Linda , Martin Camilla , Ware Janice , Cole Cynthia , Perrin Ellen , Bednarek Frank , Frazier Jean A. , Ehrenkranz Richard , Benjamin Jennifer , O’Shea T. Michael , Bose Carl , Warner Diane , Engelke Steve , Poortenga Mariel , Pastyrnak Steve , Karna Padu , Paneth Nigel , Lenski Madeleine , Schreiber Michael , Hunter Scott , Msall Michael , Batton Danny , Klarr Judith , Christianson Karen , Klein Deborah , Pimental Maureen , Hallisey Collen , Coster Taryn , Nylen Ellen , Neger Emily , Mattern Kathryn , Venuti Lauren , Powers Beth , Foley Ann , Williams Joanne , Romano Elaine , Hiatt Debbie , Peters Nancy , Brown Patricia , Ansusinha Emily , Bose Gennie , Wereszczak Janice , Bernhardt Janice , Adams Joan , Wilson Donna , Darden-Saad Nancy , Sutton Dinah , Rathbun Julie , Miras Karen , Weiland Deborah , Yoon Grace , Ramoskaite Rugile , Wiggins Suzanne , Washington Krissy , Martin Ryan , Prendergast Barbara , Kring Beth , Smith Anne , McQuiston Susan , Butler Samantha , Wilson Rachel , McGhee Kirsten , Lee Patricia , Asgarian Aimee , Sadhwani Anjali , Henson Brandi , Keller Cecelia , Walkowiak Jenifer , Barron Susan , Miller Alice , Dessureau Brian , Wood Molly , Damon-Minow Jill , Romano Elaine , Mayes Linda , Tsatsanis Kathy , Chawarska Katarzyna , Kim Sophy , Dieterich Susan , Bearrs Karen , Waldrep Ellen , Friedman Jackie , Hounshell Gail , Allred Debbie , Helms Rebecca , Whitley Lynn , Stainback Gary , Bostic Lisa , Jacobson Amanda , McKeeman Joni , Meyer Echo , Pastyrnak Steve , Price Joan , Lloyd Megan , Plesha-Troyke Susan , Scott Megan , Solomon Katherine M. , Brooklier Kara , Vogt Kelly
Published: October 2019

Objective

Infection of the placenta has been associated with preterm birth as well as neurocognitive impairment. This study aimed to determine whether specific bacterial species in the placenta of extremely preterm pregnancies are associated with neurological deficits later in life.

Study Design

Using data from 807 children in the ELGAN study the risks of a low score on six neurological assessments in relation to 15 different microbes were quantified with odds ratios.

Results

The presence of certain microbial species in the placenta was associated with lower scores on numerical and oral language assessments. Lactobacillus sp. was associated with decreased risk of a low oral language score and a composite measure of IQ and executive function.

Conclusion

Placental microorganisms were associated with neurocognitive, but not social-communicative, outcomes at age 10. In contrast, the presence of the anti-inflammatory Lactobacillus sp. in the placenta was associated with a lower risk of impaired neurocognitive functions.
Variations in AXIN2 predict risk and prognosis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Otero L. , Lacunza E. , Vasquez V. , Arbelaez V. , Cardier F. , González F.
Published: October 2019

Objective

Colorectal cancer (CRC) and hypodontia are frequent and different diseases with common genes are involved in their etiology. The objective of this study was to identify the association between AXIN2 rs2240308 with hypodontia and CRC.

Patients and methods

This study consisted of 50 individuals with hypodontia, 50 individuals with CRC, and 155 healthy individuals from Colombia. SNP genotyping assays of rs2240308 were performed and family history of cancer in individuals with hypodontia was documented. In silico analysis was implemented to define the genomic profile of the AXIN2 gene associated with CRC. Multivariate analysis, chi square, odd ratio tests, and R software were used for statistical analysis.

Results

AXIN2 rs2240308 showed association with CRC (OR = 5.4 CI: 2.7–10.4; p < 0.001) and with other familial cancer in individuals with hypodontia (p < 0.005 OR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.22–6.91). In silico analysis showed that variations in AXIN2 found in CRC patients, were more frequently in earlier stages of tumor and patients who carry variations in the AXIN2 gene have a worse prognosis (p < 0.05). The association between AXIN2 rs2240308 with hypodontia was not significant.

Conclusions

These results suggest that AXIN2 rs2240308 polymorphism is associated with CRC and AXIN2 could be a risk marker for predisposition and prognosis of CRC.