bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial aerosol, particulate matter, and microclimatic parameters in the horse stables in Poland
Authors: Grzyb Jacek , Podstawski Zenon , Bulski Karol
Published: December 2021

Keeping horses in good condition requires providing them with living conditions that meet welfare requirements. These animals should be accommodated with suitable space, access to high nutritional fodder and water, and a suitable microclimate in their shelters. When it comes to the environment in the stables, a serious problem is created by particulate matter (PM), which consists of bacteria. PM concentration may be responsible for developing multiple lower respiratory tract diseases in horses, including allergies and recurrent airway obstruction (RAO). In turn, these ailments may lead to decreasing equine physical and mental fitness. Additionally, people who spend time in the stables are exposed to the same harmful factors. The study was conducted in Udórz Stud Farm located in the southern region of Poland. The study was carried out in 2 different types of stables: 3 runners (a type of stable where horses are housed together and occasionally linked up, e.g., for feeding or grooming) and 2 box stables. The research continued for 2 years and the samples were collected in each season. The bioaerosol samples were collected using a six-stage Andersen-Graseby cascade impactor to assess size distribution and concentrations of airborne bacteria. PM concentration was analyzed using the DustTrak™ II Aerosol Monitor 8530, while microclimate parameters were measured using the Kestrel 5000 Weather Meter. There are almost no studies concerning size distribution of airborne bacteria, individual PM fractions, and the impact of everyday handling on the changes in the bioaerosol and PM concentration. This preliminary study provided basic information on this subject. We have revealed a strong correlation between high PM and bacterial aerosol concentrations. Higher contamination levels were recorded in runners, as compared to box stables. The highest bacterial aerosol level was detected in the spring. The analysis of the fractions of the bacterial aerosol in the stables indicated the highest share of ultra-fine fraction (0.65–2.1 µm), while respirable fraction (below 4.7 µm) exceeded 75%. It was established that the concentration of the bacterial aerosol inside the stables was many times higher than outside. It depended significantly on everyday activities undertaken in the stables, like feeding or cleaning. Taking the above into account, a different cleaning system should be developed (a wet cleaning system, with the use of water) and excrement should be removed more frequently.
Association of rs3027178 polymorphism in the circadian clock gene PER1 with susceptibility to Alzheimer’s disease and longevity in an Italian population
Authors: Bacalini Maria Giulia , Palombo Flavia , Garagnani Paolo , Giuliani Cristina , Fiorini Claudio , Caporali Leonardo , Stanzani Maserati Michelangelo , Capellari Sabina , Romagnoli Martina , De Fanti Sara , Benussi Luisa , Binetti Giuliano , Ghidoni Roberta , Galimberti Daniela , Scarpini Elio , Arcaro Marina , Bonanni Enrica , Siciliano Gabriele , Maestri Michelangelo , Guarnieri Biancamaria ,   Italian Multicentric Group on clock genes, actigraphy in AD, Cucchiara Federico , Schirru Alessandro , Lo Gerfo Annalisa , Lombardi Gemma , Arnaldi Dario , Mattioli Pietro , Nobili Flavio , Cerroni Gianluigi , Bartoli Antonella , Manni Raffaele , Sinforiani Elena , Terzaghi Michele , Arena Maria Grazia , Silvestri Rosalia , Di Perri Maria Caterina , Franzoni Ferdinando , Tognoni Gloria , Mancuso Michelangelo , Sorbi Sandro , Bonuccelli Ubaldo , Faraguna Ugo , Martucci Morena , Monti Daniela , Carelli Valerio , Franceschi Claudio , La Morgia Chiara , Santoro Aurelia
Published: December 2021

Many physiological processes in the human body follow a 24-h circadian rhythm controlled by the circadian clock system. Light, sensed by retina, is the predominant “zeitgeber” able to synchronize the circadian rhythms to the light-dark cycles. Circadian rhythm dysfunction and sleep disorders have been associated with aging and neurodegenerative diseases including mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In the present study, we aimed at investigating the genetic variability of clock genes in AD patients compared to healthy controls from Italy. We also included a group of Italian centenarians, considered as super-controls in association studies given their extreme phenotype of successful aging. We analyzed the exon sequences of eighty-four genes related to circadian rhythms, and the most significant variants identified in this first discovery phase were further assessed in a larger independent cohort of AD patients by matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry. The results identified a significant association between the rs3027178 polymorphism in the PER1 circadian gene with AD, the G allele being protective for AD. Interestingly, rs3027178 showed similar genotypic frequencies among AD patients and centenarians. These results collectively underline the relevance of circadian dysfunction in the predisposition to AD and contribute to the discussion on the role of the relationship between the genetics of age-related diseases and of longevity.
How Can I Contribute? Citizen Engagement in the Development of Nanotechnology for Health
Authors: Jansma Sikke R. , Dijkstra Anne M. , de Jong Menno D. T.
Published: December 2021

Scholars and policymakers have increasingly advocated to engage citizens more substantially in the development of science and technology. However, to a large extent it has remained unknown how citizens can contribute to technology development. In this study, we systematically characterized citizens’ contributions in the development of nanotechnology for health. We explored to which technology aspects citizens are able to provide suggestions on and on which values their suggestions are based. Fifty citizens in the Netherlands were asked to discuss different applications of nanotechnology for health. They were divided over eight focus groups, which lasted approximately 6.5h each. The citizens were able to contribute to various technology aspects; they mainly focused on the technologies’ implementation and use, they paid some attention to the development and system aspects, and also addressed, but less, the design and communication aspects. Their suggestions were often derived from concerns about the potential effects of the technologies and were predominantly based on the values of well-being, autonomy, and privacy.
Obesity, Inflammation, and Severe Asthma: an Update
Authors: Sharma Varun , Cowan Douglas C.
Published: December 2021

Purpose of Review

Obesity-associated difficult asthma continues to be a substantial problem and, despite a move to address treatable traits affecting asthma morbidity and mortality, it remains poorly understood with limited phenotype-specific treatments. The complex association between asthma, obesity, and inflammation is highlighted and recent advances in treatment options explored.

Recent Findings

Obesity negatively impacts asthma outcomes and has a causal link in the pathogenesis of adult-onset asthma. Imbalance in the adipose organ found in obesity favours a pro-inflammatory state both systemically and in airways. Obesity may impact currently available asthma biomarkers, and obesity-associated asthma specific biomarkers are needed. Whilst surgical weight loss interventions are associated with improvements in asthma control and quality of life, evidence for pragmatic conservative options are sparse. Innovative approaches tackling obesity-mediated airway inflammation may provide novel therapies.

The immunopathological mechanisms underlying obesity-associated asthma require further research that may lead to novel therapeutic options for this disease. However, weight loss appears to be effective in improving asthma in this cohort and focus is also needed on non-surgical treatments applicable in the real-world setting.
Growth and toxin production of phomopsin A and ochratoxin A forming fungi under different storage conditions in a pea (Pisum sativum) model system
Authors: Kunz Birgitta Maria , Pförtner Laura , Weigel Stefan , Rohn Sascha , Lehmacher Anselm , Maul Ronald
Published: December 2021

Phomopsins are mycotoxins mainly infesting lupines, with phomopsin A (PHOA) being the main mycotoxin. PHOA is produced by Diaporthe toxica, formerly assigned as toxigenic Phomopsis leptostromiformis, causing infections in lupine plants and harvested seeds. However, Diaporthe species may also grow on other grain legumes, similar to Aspergillus westerdijkiae as an especially potent ochratoxin A (OTA) producer. Formation of PHOA and OTA was investigated on whole field peas as model system to assess fungal growth and toxin production at adverse storage conditions. Field pea samples were inoculated with the two fungal strains at two water activity (aw) values of 0.94 and 0.98 and three different levels of 30, 50, and 80% relative air humidity.

After 14 days at an aw value of 0.98, the fungi produced 4.49 to 34.3 mg/kg PHOA and 1.44 to 3.35 g/kg OTA, respectively. Strains of D. toxica also tested showed higher PHOA concentrations of 28.3 to 32.4 mg/kg.

D. toxica strains did not grow or produce PHOA at an aw values of 0.94, while A. westerdijkiae still showed growth and OTA production.

Elevated water activity has a major impact both on OTA and, even more pronouncedly, on PHOA formation and thus, proper drying and storage of lupins as well as other grain legumes is crucial for product safety.
Per-unit versus ad-valorem royalty licensing in a Stackelberg market
Authors: Antelo Manel , Bru Lluís
Published: December 2021

We consider licensing of a non-drastic innovation by a licensor that interacts with a potential licensee in a Stackelberg duopoly, comparing per-unit and ad-valorem royalty two-part contracts and showing why and when each licensing deal should be used. We contribute three findings to the literature. First, ad-valorem royalty is preferred when the licensor plays as leader in the marketplace, but per-unit royalty is preferred when the licensor plays as follower. Second, only innovations that do not hurt consumers are socially beneficial. Third, our model also suggests that both the licensor’s status as a leader or follower in the marketplace and the innovation size determine the incentive to engage in innovative activities.
Lab-like findings from online experiments
Authors: Buso Irene Maria , Di Cagno Daniela , Ferrari Lorenzo , Larocca Vittorio , Lorè Luisa , Marazzi Francesca , Panaccione Luca , Spadoni Lorenzo
Published: December 2021

Laboratory experiments have been often replaced by online experiments in the last decade. This trend has been reinforced when academic and research work based on physical interaction had to be suspended due to restrictions imposed to limit the spread of Covid-19. Therefore, data quality and results from web experiments have become an issue which is currently investigated. Are there significant differences between lab experiments and online findings? We contribute to this debate via an experiment aimed at comparing results from a novel online protocol with traditional laboratory settings, using the same pool of participants. We find that participants in our experiment behave in a similar way across settings and that there are at best weakly significant and quantitatively small differences in behavior observed using our online protocol and physical laboratory setting.
A case study of an experiment during the COVID-19 pandemic: online elicitation of subjective beliefs and economic preferences
Authors: Harrison Glenn W. , Hofmeyr Andre , Kincaid Harold , Monroe Brian , Ross Don , Schneider Mark , Swarthout J. Todd
Published: December 2021

We convey our experiences developing and implementing an online experiment to elicit subjective beliefs and economic preferences. The COVID-19 pandemic and associated closures of our laboratories required us to conduct an online experiment in order to collect beliefs and preferences associated with the pandemic in a timely manner. Since we had not previously conducted a similar multi-wave online experiment, we faced design and implementation considerations that are not present when running a typical laboratory experiment. By discussing these details more fully, we hope to contribute to the online experiment methodology literature at a time when many other researchers may be considering conducting an online experiment for the first time. We focus primarily on methodology; in a complementary study we focus on initial research findings.
A Unification of Heterogeneous Data Sources into a Graph Model in E-commerce
Authors: Tuteja Sonal , Kumar Rajeev
Published: December 2021

The incorporation of heterogeneous data models into large-scale e-commerce applications incurs various complexities and overheads, such as redundancy of data, maintenance of different data models, and communication among different models for query processing. Graphs have emerged as data modelling techniques for large-scale applications with heterogeneous, schemaless, and relationship-centric data. Models exist for mapping different types of data to a graph; however, the unification of data from heterogeneous source models into a graph model has not received much attention. To address this, we propose a new framework in this study. The proposed framework first transforms data from various source models into graph models individually and then unifies them into a single graph. To justify the applicability of the proposed framework in e-commerce applications, we analyse and compare query performance, scalability, and database size of the unified graph with heterogeneous source data models for a predefined set of queries. We also access some qualitative measures, such as flexibility, completeness, consistency, and maturity for the proposed unified graph. Based on the experimental results, the unified graph outperforms heterogeneous source models for query performance and scalability; however, it falls behind for database size.
Long-term use of CPAP in patients with obstructive sleep apnea: a prospective longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Møkleby Margareta , Øverland Britt
Published: December 2021

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is an efficient treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Reports of long-term usage vary, as do the factors that predict long-term usage. The aim of this study was to explore long-term CPAP usage and identify potential predictors. This prospective longitudinal cohort study included all patients referred to an outpatient clinic for CPAP treatment during an eight-month period. Clinical data were collected at baseline. Follow-ups were scheduled after one week, three months and two years. Use data were downloaded from the CPAP device at each follow-up. Of 163 included patients, 112 were available for long-term follow-up 2–4 years after starting CPAP, and use data were downloaded for 99 patients. Median duration of CPAP use was 6 h/night (IQR 4.2–7.1). The only significant variable predicting long-term usage was usage at three months. Nearly half (43%) of the patients needed extra consultations beyond the standard treatment plan. Most patients (69%) did not contact the clinic for their recommended two-year follow-up but were instead called into the clinic specifically for the study. There was no significant difference in long-term CPAP usage between patients who initiated contact themselves and those who were called in and would otherwise have been lost for follow-up. Most patients adhere well to CPAP in the long term, although many need extra follow-up. Patients lost for follow-up should not necessarily be considered non-adherent as their reason for not attending could be that they are managing treatment well on their own.
Simulation of air temperature and their influence on the potential distribution of Myracrodruon urundeuva, Copernicia prunifera and Cereus jamacaru in the Caatinga
Authors: de Sousa Vieira Luciana Cristina , de Paula Silva Filho Vicente , Satyamurty Prakki , de Almeida Dantas Vanessa , Santos Aldeize da Silva , Francisco Bezerra das Chagas Glayson
Published: December 2021

Areas in the process of aridification in Caatinga phytogeographic domain in northeastern Brazil increase every year due to human intervention and increase in air temperature. The identification of long-term patterns and air temperature trends in the phytogeographic domain can express climate variability as well as a new phase of adaptation to some plant species. The temperature series from 1951 to 2018 obtained from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction data sets in four conservation areas with native vegetation, located in the North (A1), East (A2), South (A3) and West (A4) regions of this phytogeographic domain, show an increase in temperature between 0.5 and 1.4 °C over the 68-year period with the highest warming occurring in the months of March, April and May. The Maxent model is used to identify the influence of this increase on the presence potential of three species in the Caatinga, Myracrodruon urundeuva (aroeira), Copernicia prunifera (palmeira) and Cereus jamacaru DC (cactus) in the future time interval of 2041 to 2060, considering IPCC projected climate changes. The results show that climate change can lead to a reduction as well as redistribution of the potential areas of occurrence of the three species. Notable changes are: in the case of Carnauba, the high potential area reduces from 25.3% in the present state to 19.6% in 2050, and potential area for Aroeira diminishes in central Bahia and increases in Rio Grande do Norte. The projected changes for all three species are discussed.
Control and understanding of metal contacts to β-Ga2O3 single crystals: a review
Authors: Kim Hogyoung
Published: December 2021

Gallium oxide (Ga2O3) is a promising semiconductor for high power devices and solar blind ultraviolet photodetectors due to its large bandgap, a high breakdown field, and high thermal stability. Recently, a considerable achievement has been obtained for the growth of high-quality β-Ga2O3 and high performance β-Ga2O3 based devices. However, rapid advance in device performance can be limited by the critical issues of metal contacts to β-Ga2O3 such as barrier height, leakage current, ohmic contact, and surface, interfacial and deep states. This article aims to provide a review on the recent studies in the control and understanding of metal contacts to β-Ga2O3, particularly in terms of the barrier formation. This review suggests that understanding the current transport mechanisms of metal contacts to β-Ga2O3 more thoroughly is necessary to enhance the performance, stability and reliability of β-Ga2O3 based devices.
Study on tri-imidazole derivatives modified with triazine-trione structure as latent curing agents for epoxy resin
Authors: Wan Xiaodong , Liu Jianben , Chen Xi , Wang Jun
Published: December 2021

In this paper, four novel kinds of triazine-trione based tri-imidazole derivatives (IM-TT, 2MI-TT, 2EI-TT and EMI-TT) were synthesized through the addition reaction between triglycidyl isocyanurate (TGIC) and imidazole (IM), 2-methylimidazole (2MI), 2-ethylimidazole (2EI) and 2-ethyl-4-methylimidazole (EMI), respectively. The triazine-trione based tri-imidazole derivatives were blended with epoxy resin and the reactivity, thermal latency and thermal property were investigated. The results on curing behaviors indicated that the curing exothermic peaks of the blends with triazine-trione based tri-imidazole derivatives shifted to higher temperatures compared with those with commercial imidazoles. The curing exothermic peak temperatures (Tps) of the synthesized tri-imidazole derivatives were increased by 23–32 ℃ compared with the unmodified imidazoles. In addition, Rheological behavior results indicated that the EP blends with tri-imidazole derivatives also exhibited excellent storage stability which was as long as 38 days under room temperature. Last but not the least, the EP blends with triazine-trione based tri-imidazole derivatives also exhibited high glass transition temperatures due to introducing of triazine-trione structures with high crosslinking density. The glass transition temperatures (Tgs) of the prepared thermosets ranged from 128 to 152 ℃. The triazine-trione based tri-imidazole derivatives provide a way to prepare latency epoxy resin with high high glass transition temperature and long storage stability.

Article Highlights

Four novel kinds of triazine-trione based tri-imidazole derivatives were synthesized.

The EP cured with the tri-imidazole derivatives displayed great thermostability.

The EP cured with the tri-imidazole derivatives exhibited long storage stability.
High-performance blockchain system for fast certification of manufacturing data
Authors: Costa Diogo , Teixeira Miguel , Pinto Armando N. , Santos José
Published: December 2021

Integration of blockchain systems into industrial applications show promise in increasing security, trust, and transparency along the value-chain during product and process tracking. However, current solutions suffer performance deficiencies, or often disregard legacy devices still in operation. We propose a blockchain system built upon an IoT architecture that is secure, modular, easily scalable, and deployable for fast certification of manufacturing data, compatible with current industrial landscapes. First, the proposed architecture is presented along with elements required to manage network functions. Second, easing integration with existing manufacturing solutions, custom APIs are created and subsequently explained. This grants the platform plug-and-play capabilities, requiring minimal hardware and software configuration for deployment. Lastly, a prototype is designed to validate the solution, concluding the viability of the proposed architecture as a fast and secure certification method of manufacturing data.
Roles of plant hormones in thermomorphogenesis
Authors: Lu Hai-Ping , Wang Jing-Jing , Wang Mei-Jing , Liu Jian-Xiang
Published: December 2021

Global warming has great impacts on plant growth and development, as well as ecological distribution. Plants constantly perceive environmental temperatures and adjust their growth and development programs accordingly to cope with the environment under non-lethal warm temperature conditions. Plant hormones are endogenous bioactive chemicals that play central roles in plant growth, developmental, and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. In this review, we summarize the important roles of plant hormones, including auxin, brassinosteroids (BRs), Gibberellins (GAs), ethylene (ET), and jasmonates (JAs), in regulating plant growth under warm temperature conditions. This provides a picture on how plants sense and transduce the warm temperature signals to regulate downstream gene expression for controlling plant growth under warm temperature conditions via hormone biosynthesis and signaling pathways.
Sexual Function of Women with Deep Endometriosis Before and After Surgery: A Prospective Study
Authors: Dior Uri P. , Reddington Charlotte , Cheng Claudia , Levin Gabriel , Healey Martin
Published: December 2021

Background

Deep endometriosis (DE) may significantly affect women’s quality of life. Limited data exists on the effect of surgery on the several domains of sexual function.

Aim

To prospectively compare various domains of sexual function before and after laparoscopic surgery for DE.

Methods

A prospective observational cohort study in a tertiary university-affiliated referral center. Patients with suspected DE who were planned to undergo laparoscopic surgery completed the Female Sexual Function Index questionnaire before surgery. The same questionnaire was completed by the participants 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months after surgery. Rate of sexual dysfunction over time was compared using multilevel logistic regression. Summary scores were then compared at each time point to the corresponding score before surgery using multilevel linear regression. Multivariable analysis was performed of potential confounders.

Outcomes

Change in desire, arousal, orgasm, lubrication, satisfaction and pain summary scores as well as in the full-scale score between before and after surgery.

Results

We followed 149 patients with surgically confirmed DE. Sexual dysfunction rate as per the full-scale score was 75.5% before surgery and remained over 60% to 12 months after. The full-scale sexual function score improved at 6 (change in score = 2.8 ± 9.5, P = .004) and 12 months (change in score = 2.1 ± 9.9, P = .03). None of the summary scores improved at 6 weeks. Desire score (P < .001), arousal score (P = .02), and pain score (P = .01) improved at 6 months. Desire score (P = .03) and pain score (P = .01) also improved at 12 months, as compared to before surgery. On multivariable multilevel analysis, scores before surgery significantly contributed to the scores after surgery (P < .001).

Clinical translation

While sexual function improved after surgery, dysfunction rate remained substantial. Proper preoperative counseling should address sexual function measures and clinical and research attention should be given to seek ways to further reduce sexual dysfunction.

Strengths and limitations

The main strengths of our study are the prospective design, the relatively long follow-up and the use of a detailed validated questionnaire allowing assessment of a large variety of clinically relevant sexual function domains and scores as well as a full-scale score. Among our limitations are the lower response rate at 12 months and the limited generalizability as this is a single center study.

Conclusion

Sexual function is a major and often under reported domain of quality of life. Further research is needed to identify the specific populations who may improve, not change or experience deterioration in their sexual functioning after surgery.
Inter‐Hemispheric Coupling During Sudden Stratospheric Warming Events With Elevated Stratopause
Authors: Naren Athreyas Kashyapa , Garcia Rolando , Chandran Amal
Published: December 2021

Sudden stratospheric warmings (SSW) are large‐scale disruptions of the wintertime state of the stratosphere that can affect the circulation at synoptic and global scales, including altitudes up to the mesopause in both winter and summer hemispheres. In this study, the response of the summer mesosphere is analyzed during the SSW in the winter stratosphere. In particular, we focus on major SSW events where the climatological stratopause disappears and subsequently reforms at higher altitude, which we refer to as “extreme SSW” in this article. The summer mesosphere response to such extreme SSW events is analyzed in three different phases: (a) stratosphere warming phase, (b) stratopause discontinuity phase, and (c) stratopause reformation phase. Composites of anomalies with respect to climatology derived from the Microwave Limb Sounder and the extended version of the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model with specified dynamics are analyzed. The polar summer mesosphere cools during the stratospheric warming phase and warms in subsequent phases. A detailed lag‐correlation analysis shows strong negative correlation of −0.6 to −0.8 between the summer mesosphere and the winter stratosphere during the stratosphere warming phase, and a positive correlation of 0.4–0.6 in the phases thereafter. An attempt is made to explain the apparent drivers and dynamics responsible for these couplings, supported with evidence from observations and model output.
No Relief from Rain: Climate Change Fuels Compound Disasters
Authors: Campbell Leah
Published: December 2021

Climate change is increasing the risk of fire-rain events, raising mudslide concerns in fire-prone communities.
A Gas Pipeline Investigation Built on Community-Centered Ideas
Authors: Cartier Kimberly
Published: December 2021

From developing a research question to enacting solutions, environmental justice requires community engagement in every step of the scientific process.
Sediment Recruitment and Redistribution in Mountain Channel Networks by Post‐Wildfire Debris Flows
Authors: Morell K. D. , Alessio P. , Dunne T. , Keller E.
Published: December 2021

We used lidar differencing and field observations to map volumes, and interpret the origins of, sediment mobilized from mountain canyons by large post‐wildfire debris flows near Montecito, CA, USA in 2018. The debris flows progressively entrained and partially redeposited 550,000 m3 of previously stored channel sediments throughout the canyon networks. The observations that scour depths and volumes were highest where the largest volumes of bouldery colluvium and debris‐flow deposits had accumulated, and that scour persisted beyond the mountain front, indicates that debris‐flow volumes in this extreme event were ultimately controlled by the coarse sediment reservoir available for scour. Because the volumes of available stored sediment result from the stochastic interaction of colluvial mass wasting, the magnitude and frequency of previous debris flows, and the accommodation space provided by valley morphology, the study reinforces the importance of estimating stored sediment volumes when developing debris‐flow hazard assessments.
Optimal Growth of IPV Lags AMV Modulations by up to a Decade
Authors: Yang Jun‐Chao , Zhang Yu , Lin Xiaopei , Chang Ping
Published: December 2021

The Interdecadal Pacific Variability (IPV) has global climate effects but its decadal prediction is a challenge. Here, we use linear inverse models to study the optimal growth of the IPV and reveal important precursor patterns. We find that the optimal growth of the IPV exists in observations due to interference among various sea surface temperature (SST) decadal variations. Small SST anomalies extending from the northeastern subtropical Pacific to the central tropical Pacific, in concert with thermocline dynamics, can develop into a mature phase of the IPV after ∼3 years. Furthermore, the initial SST anomalies lag the Atlantic Multidecadal Variability (AMV) by up to a decade, suggesting the potential importance of the AMV in IPV decadal predictability. As climate models commonly underestimate the AMV trans‐basin effect, our study calls for more efforts on reducing the model bias to improve IPV decadal prediction.
A Benthic Monitor for Coastal Water Dissolved Oxygen Variation: Mn/Ca Ratios in Tests of an Epifaunal Foraminifer
Authors: Guo Xiaoyi , Wei Qinsheng , Xu Bochao , Burnett William C. , Bernhard Joan M. , Nan Haiming , Lian Ergang , Yang Shouye , Yu Zhigang
Published: December 2021

An appropriate proxy could help to better understand dissolved oxygen variations in the past, helping to predict potential outcomes of future environmental changes. In the Changjiang Estuary (China), the foraminifer Cribrononion subincertum (C. subincertum) shows a distinct population maximum in the topmost sediment, an indication of an epifaunal species. Therefore, the geochemical composition of C. subincertum tests could record changes in the region’s bottom water chemistry. Our results showed that Mn/Ca ratios in tests of living (Rose‐Bengal stained) C. subincertum analyzed by LA‐ICP‐MS were responsive to variations of bottom water dissolved oxygen concentrations, with average foraminiferal Mn/Ca ratios three times higher during low‐oxygen period than in winter. In the uppermost centimeters of sediment, wider ranges of foraminiferal Mn/Ca occurred in summer compared to winter ranges. Our results imply that this epifaunal benthic foraminiferal species could serve as a useful benthic monitor with the Mn/Ca ratios representing a reliable proxy of hypoxia in the past.
Aerosol Physical‐Optical Properties and PBLH Under Different Air Pollution Levels From Ground Lidar and Satellite Observations Over Shouxian Area, China
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Wei Fan , Luo Hao , Su Yueyuan , Feng Yan , Huang Yong , Yang Jun , Wu Yonghua , Han Yong
Published: December 2021

The physical and optical properties of aerosols and the change of planetary boundary layer height (PBLH) are of great scientific significance for the study of atmospheric environment and air quality. This paper intends to present integrated observations of aerosol physical‐optical characteristics and PBLH properties under different air pollution levels in Shouxian (National Climatology Observatory (32°26’ N, 116°47’ E)), China. The combined measurements of ground‐based Lidar and Cloud‐Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) are analyzed from December 2016 to November 2017 in this study. Results show that the extinction coefficients decrease significantly with height below 2 km. The extinction coefficients below 1 km, the aerosol optical depth (AOD), and the PBLH increase with the aggravation of pollution. The daily average aerosol extinction coefficient near the surface is about 0.78 km−1, the AOD is 0.87 ± 0.33 m (mean ± std, the same below), and the PBLH is 827 ± 132 m in polluted conditions (PM2.5 > 115 μg m−3). With the increase in pollution and the decrease in PBLH, more aerosols are accumulated at a lower height. The daily average ratios of AOD below PBLH (AODPBLH) to total AOD (AODtot) are about 64% in polluted conditions. According to the CALIPSO‐observed aerosol vertical profile, aerosols are identified for about 20.54% of the vertical space below 6 km altitude under polluted conditions. The spherical fine particles with lower particulate depolarization ratio (PDR, 79% of the PDR is <0.2), lower color ratio (CR, 64% of the CR is <0.75), and stronger scattering ability are dominant in 0∼2 km.
Rainfall Stable Water Isotope Variability in Coastal Southwestern Western Australia and Its Relationship to Climate on Multiple Timescales
Authors: Griffiths Alan D. , Treble Pauline C. , Hope Pandora , Rudeva Irina
Published: December 2021

The factors driving variability in rainfall stable water isotopes (specifically δ18O and deuterium excess, d = δ2H − 8 δ18O) were studied in a 13‐year data set of daily rainfall samples from coastal southwestern Western Australia (SWWA). Backwards dispersion modeling, automatic synoptic type classification, and a statistical model were used to establish causes of variability on a daily scale; and predictions from the model were aggregated to longer temporal scales to discover the cause of variability on multiple timescales. Factors differ between δ18O and d and differ according to temporal scale. Rainfall intensity, both at the observation site and upwind, was most important for determining δ18O and this relationship was robust across all time scales (daily, seasonal, and interannual) as well as generalizing to a second observation site. The sensitivity of δ18O to rainfall intensity makes annual mean values particularly sensitive to the year's largest events. Projecting the rainfall intensity relationship back through ∼100 years of precipitation observations can explain ∼–0.4‰ shifts in rainfall δ18O. Twentieth century speleothem records from the region exhibit signals of a similar magnitude, indicating that rainfall intensity should be taken into account during the interpretation of regional climate archives. For d, humidity during evaporation from the ocean was the most important driver of variability at the daily scale, as well as explaining the seasonal cycle, but source humidity failed to explain the longer‐term interannual variability.
Mesospheric Short‐Period Gravity Waves in the Antarctic Peninsula Observed in All‐Sky Airglow Images and Their Possible Source Locations
Authors: Kam Hosik , Song In‐Sun , Kim Jeong‐Han , Kim Yong Ha , Song Byeong‐Gwon , Nakamura Takuji , Tomikawa Yoshihiro , Kogure Masaru , Ejiri Mitsumu K. , Perwitasari Septi , Tsutsumi Masaki , Kwak Young‐Sil
Published: December 2021

This study presents an analysis of OH airglow images observed from an all‐sky camera (ASC) at King Sejong Station (KSS), Antarctic for the 2012–2016 period. The two‐dimensional power spectra of short‐period gravity waves (<1 hr) as a function of phase velocities are obtained using the M‐transform method that employs the time sequence of ASC images. The amplitudes of the power spectral densities show that the mesospheric wave activity is the largest during winter (May, June, and July) and is the smallest in fall (February, March, and April). Wind‐blocking diagrams are constructed on the same two‐dimensional domain as in the two‐dimensional spectra using horizontal winds obtained from MERRA‐2 reanalysis at z = 0–80 km and from KSS meteor radar data at z = 80–90 km. Climatologically, the spectral regions of slowly propagating gravity waves (<30 m s−1) are overlaid by the wind‐blocking areas, which suggests the filtering of gravity waves with small phase speeds by winds below the upper stratosphere. Eastward propagating gravity waves in winter and intense south‐eastward waves in spring (October) are found to be unfiltered by the stratospheric winds. It is also found from the spectral analysis that these unfiltered gravity waves can originate from the upper stratosphere or the lower mesosphere, and not from the troposphere, which suggests the possibility of ASC observation of the secondary gravity waves generated near the stratopause.
Involvement of the ghrelin system in the maintenance and reinstatement of cocaine-motivated behaviors: a role of adrenergic action at peripheral β1 receptors
Authors: You Zhi-Bing , Galaj Ewa , Alén Francisco , Wang Bin , Bi Guo-Hua , Moore Allamar R. , Buck Tristram , Crissman Madeline , Pari Sruti , Xi Zheng-Xiong , Leggio Lorenzo , Wise Roy A. , Gardner Eliot L.
Published: December 2021

Cocaine addiction is a significant medical and public concern. Despite decades of research effort, development of pharmacotherapy for cocaine use disorder remains largely unsuccessful. This may be partially due to insufficient understanding of the complex biological mechanisms involved in the pathophysiology of this disorder. In the present study, we show that: (1) elevation of ghrelin by cocaine plays a critical role in maintenance of cocaine self-administration and cocaine-seeking motivated by cocaine-conditioned stimuli; (2) acquisition of cocaine-taking behavior is associated with the acquisition of stimulatory effects of cocaine by cocaine-conditioned stimuli on ghrelin secretion, and with an upregulation of ghrelin receptor mRNA levels in the ventral tegmental area (VTA); (3) blockade of ghrelin signaling by pretreatment with JMV2959, a selective ghrelin receptor antagonist, dose-dependently inhibits reinstatement of cocaine-seeking triggered by either cocaine or yohimbine in behaviorally extinguished animals with a history of cocaine self-administration; (4) JMV2959 pretreatment also inhibits brain stimulation reward (BSR) and cocaine-potentiated BSR maintained by optogenetic stimulation of VTA dopamine neurons in DAT-Cre mice; (5) blockade of peripheral adrenergic β1 receptors by atenolol potently attenuates the elevation in circulating ghrelin induced by cocaine and inhibits cocaine self-administration and cocaine reinstatement triggered by cocaine. These findings demonstrate that the endogenous ghrelin system plays an important role in cocaine-related addictive behaviors and suggest that manipulating and targeting this system may be viable for mitigating cocaine use disorder.
Transformation and outcome of nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma: a Finnish Nationwide population-based study
Authors: Kalashnikov Ilja , Tanskanen Tomas , Pitkäniemi Janne , Malila Nea , Jyrkkiö Sirkku , Leppä Sirpa
Published: December 2021

Nodular lymphocyte predominant Hodgkin lymphoma (NLPHL) is a rare B-cell malignancy associated with excellent survival. However, some patients experience histological transformation into aggressive large B-cell lymphoma. Population-based data on transformation in patients with NLPHL is limited. We conducted a nationwide population-based study to estimate the risk of transformation and relative survival in patients diagnosed with NLPHL in Finland between 1995 and 2018. We identified a total of 453 patients (median age, 48 years; 76% males) with the incident NLPHL from the Finnish Cancer Registry. The cumulative incidence of transformation was 6.3% (95% CI, 4.2-9.6) at 10 years. After adjusting for sex, age and year of diagnosis, transformation was associated with a substantially increased risk of death (HR 8.55, 95% CI 4.49−16.3). Ten-year relative survival was 94% (95% CI, 89%‒100%). The patients diagnosed at a later calendar year had lower excess risk of death (HR, 0.38 per 10-year increase; 95% CI, 0.15‒0.98). We conclude that while the 10-year relative survival for the patients with NLPHL was excellent in this large population-based cohort for the entire study period, transformation resulted in a substantially increased mortality compared with the patients without transformation. Our results also suggest a reduction in excess mortality over time.
Longitudinal study of stool-associated microbial taxa in sibling pairs with and without autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Tataru Christine , Martin Austin , Dunlap Kaitlyn , Peras Marie , Chrisman Brianna S , Rutherford Erica , Deitzler Grace E , Phillips Alexandra , Yin Xiaochen , Sabino Kayleen , Hannibal Roberta L , Hartono Wiputra , Lin Michelle , Raack Edward , Wu Yonggan , DeSantis Todd Z , Iwai Shoko , Wall Dennis P , David Maude M
Published: December 2021

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Recently, gut dysbiosis has emerged as a powerful contributor to ASD symptoms. In this study, we recruited over 100 age-matched sibling pairs (between 2 and 8 years old) where one had an Autism ASD diagnosis and the other was developing typically (TD) (432 samples total). We collected stool samples over four weeks, tracked over 100 lifestyle and dietary variables, and surveyed behavior measures related to ASD symptoms. We identified 117 amplicon sequencing variants (ASVs) that were significantly different in abundance between sibling pairs across all three timepoints, 11 of which were supported by at least two contrast methods. We additionally identified dietary and lifestyle variables that differ significantly between cohorts, and further linked those variables to the ASVs they statistically relate to. Overall, dietary and lifestyle features were explanatory of ASD phenotype using logistic regression, however, global compositional microbiome features were not. Leveraging our longitudinal behavior questionnaires, we additionally identified 11 ASVs associated with changes in reported anxiety over time within and across all individuals. Lastly, we find that overall microbiome composition (beta-diversity) is associated with specific ASD-related behavioral characteristics.
Semiconducting polymer nanoparticles for NIR-II fluorescence imaging-guided photothermal/thermodynamic combination therapy
Authors: Wang Wenqi , Zhang Xi , Ni Xiaoyue , Zhou Wen , Xie Chen , Huang Wei , Fan Quli
Published: December 2021

A kind of semiconducting polymer nanoparticle loaded with AIPH is designed for NIR-II fluorescence imaging-guided photothermal/thermodynamic combination therapy.
A bifunctional chemical signature enabling RNA 4-thiouridine enrichment sequencing with single-base resolution
Authors: Su Li , Zhao Fengjiao , Yu Huahang , Bai Min , Xue Jing , Cao Xiaowen , Chen Feng , Zhao Yongxi
Published: December 2021

A bifunctional chemical signature is designed to achieve RNA 4sU enrichment sequencing with single-base resolution. This sequencing method can be applied to the genome-wide profiling of endogenous 4sU, transcription dynamics or translational pausing.
Sparse modeling for small data: case studies in controlled synthesis of 2D materials
Authors: Haraguchi Yuri , Igarashi Yasuhiko , Imai Hiroaki , Oaki Yuya
Published: December 2021

Straightforward, interpretable, and modifiable linear-regression prediction models with appropriate accuracy are constructed by sparse modeling coupled with our chemical perspectives as researchers on small data, such as experimental data in laboratories.
Synthesis of 2-trifluoromethyl chromenes via double carbonyl–ene reaction
Authors: Chen Shouxiong , Wang Hui , Lin Qi , Weng Zhiqiang
Published: December 2021

A synthesis of 2-trifluoromethyl chromenes through double carbonyl–ene reaction of o-isopropenylphenols with trifluoroacetic anhydride is reported.
An ultra-low hysteresis, self-healing and stretchable conductor based on dynamic disulfide covalent adaptable networks
Authors: Kong Weibo , Yang Yunyun , Wang Yanjun , Cheng Hongfei , Yan Peiyao , Huang Lei , Ning Jingyi , Zeng Fanhao , Cai Xufu , Wang Ming
Published: December 2021

A new strategy to achieve self-healing, anti-hysteresis and stretchable conductors was developed via the design of chemical structures and activity of dynamic bonds in covalent adaptable networks (CANs).
Impact of stator slot geometry on the windage loss in a high‐speed linear switched reluctance motor
Authors: Seshadri Arjun , Lenin Natesan C. , Padmanaban Sanjeevikumar , Khan Baseem
Published: December 2021

A linear switched reluctance motor (LSRM) is designed for electric propulsion application in a Magnetically Levitated (Maglev) train with the base speed of 7.6 m/s and operating at a maximum of 27.8 m/s. In such high‐speed LSRMs, windage loss is one of the key issues of concern. Usually, windage loss accounts for approximately 0.5% below the base speed, 20% above the base speed, and 45% at higher speeds of the total loss of the LSRM. One of the many parameters affecting this windage loss is the stator slot profile. This research work studies about different stator slot structures, thereby aiming to reduce the windage loss through computational fluid dynamics analysis. Furthermore, experimental testing of the LSRM is also done to verify the simulation results.
On the trail of a comet’s tail: A particle tracking algorithm for comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko
Authors: Pfeifer Marius , Agarwal Jessica , Schröter Matthias
Published: December 2021

Context.During the post-perihelion phase of the European Space Agency’s Rosetta mission to comet67P, the Optical, Spectroscopic, and Infrared Remote Imaging System on board the spacecraft took numerous image sequences of the near-nucleus coma, with many showing the motion of individual pieces of debris ejected from active surface areas into space.

Aims.We aim to track the motion of individual particles in these image sequences and derive their projected velocities and accelerations. This should help us to constrain their point of origin on the surface, understand the forces that influence their dynamics in the inner coma, and predict whether they will fall back to the surface or escape to interplanetary space.

Methods.We have developed an algorithm that tracks the motion of particles appearing as point sources in image sequences. Our algorithm employs a point source detection software to locate the particles and then exploits the image sequences’ pair-nature to reconstruct the particle tracks and derive the projected velocities and accelerations. We also constrained the particle size from their brightness.

Results.Our algorithm identified 2268 tracks in a sample image sequence. Manual inspection not only found that 1187 (∼52%) of them are likely genuine, but in combination with runs on simulated data it also revealed a simple criterion related to the completeness of a track to single out a large subset of the genuine tracks without the need for manual intervention. A tentative analysis of a small (n = 89) group of particles exemplifies how our data can be used, and provides first results on the particles’ velocity, acceleration, and radius distributions, which agree with previous work.
Convergence of a particle approximation for the quasi-stationary distribution of a diffusion process: Uniform estimates in a compact soft case
Authors: Journel Lucas , Monmarché Pierre
Published: December 2021

We establish the convergences (with respect to the simulation time t; the number of particles N; the timestep γ) of a Moran/Fleming-Viot type particle scheme toward the quasi-stationary distribution of a diffusion on the d-dimensional torus, killed at a smooth rate. In these conditions, quantitative bounds are obtained that, for each parameter (t →∞, N →∞ or γ → 0) are independent from the two others.