bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Low Corticosterone Response to Stress in a Perimenopausal Rat Model Is Associated with the Hypoactivation of PaMP Region of the Paraventricular Nucleus and Can Be Corrected by Exogenous Progesterone Supplementation
Authors: Rodrigues-Santos Isabelle , Kalil-Cutti Bruna , Anselmo-Franci Janete Aparecida
Published: July 2021

Introduction: The transition to menopause is characterized by mood, behavioral and metabolic changes. However, little is known about the changes in adrenal response to stress. Aims: The aim of the study was to evaluate, in an animal model of perimenopause induced by 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD), (1) the endocrine and neuronal stress system activity in response to acute restraint stress and (2) the effect of hormonal therapy in this response. Methods: Prepubertal female Wistar rats received daily injections (s.c) of oil or VCD (160 mg/kg) for 15 days. On 56th–66th days after treatment onset, the groups to be stressed received s.c implants containing placebo (PL), 17β-estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), or E2P4. At 80 ± 5 days after VCD/oil injections, stress was applied for 30 min. Blood samples were collected immediately after and 60 min after the end of stress session from the tail tip followed by transcardial perfusion with PFA 4% for the assessment of c-Fos expression in the medial and posterior parvocellular (PaMP and PaPo) subdivisions of the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and c-Fos/tyrosine hydroxylase in the locus coeruleus (LC) using immunohistochemistry. Control groups were not stressed nor received hormone therapy. Results: While basal corticosterone levels were similar between VCD-periestropausal and control rats, the secretion in response to stress in the VCD group was lower. This effect was prevented by P4 therapy. Inversely, basal levels of P4 were lower in VCD-periestropausal rats than in the controls, and no differences were found in response to stress between the groups. As expected, 30-min restraint stress increased c-Fos immunoreactivity in all brain areas studied in both control and VCD-periestropausal rats. However, the c-Fos increase in the PaMP region was attenuated. In all areas examined, there were no significant differences in the number of c-Fos-positive neurons across hormonal therapies. Discussion/Conclusion: This is the first study to demonstrate in a perimenopausal rat model that reproductive aging is accompanied by inadequate secretion of corticosterone in response to acute stress in association with the hypoactivation of the PaMP region of the PVN, while adrenal P4 response is preserved. Moreover, P4 therapy was shown to attenuate the effects of progressive ovarian failure on adrenal functioning during stress.
The Heterogeneity of Response of PC12 Cells from Different Laboratories to Nerve Growth Factor and Pituitary Adenylate Cyclase-Activating Polypeptide Questions the Reproducibility of Studies Carried Out with Tumor Cell Lines
Authors: Delage Colombe , Breard-Mellin Lou , Thérésine Caroline , Simioneck Séphora , Lefranc Benjamin , Leprince Jérôme , Bénard Magalie , Vaudry David
Published: July 2021

Background: PC12 pheochromocytoma tumor cell lines are widely used to decipher the intracellular signaling mechanisms mediating the effects of some growth factors. Nevertheless, the disparity in appearance of some PC12 cell lines used in the different publications questions our ability to compare the results obtained by the numerous laboratories which use them. This led us to analyze the phenotypic aspect and transcriptomic expression of 5 PC12 cell lines from different origins under control conditions and after treatment with nerve growth factor (NGF) or pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP). Methods: Characterization of the 5 PC12 cell lines was conducted using imaging techniques and high-throughput real-time PCR combined with bioinformatics analysis. Results: The results show that the 5 cell lines are very variable in terms of shape, proliferation rate, motility, adhesion to the substrate, and gene expression. This high heterogeneity of the cell lines is also found when looking at their response to NGF or PACAP on gene expression or differentiation, with even in some cases opposite effects, as, for example, on cell proliferation. Actually, only 2 of the cell lines tested exhibited some phenotypic similarities with each other, even though the transcriptomic analyses show that they are far from identical. Discussion/Conclusion: As this issue of cell heterogenicity is not restricted to PC12 cells, the present results highlight the need to facilitate the supply of cell lines at low cost, the necessity to standardize practices regarding the use of cell lines, and the requirement to define precise markers of established cell lines which should be monitored in every publication. Regarding this latter point, the present data show that transcriptomic analysis by real-time PCR using a panel of genes of interest is easy to implement and provides a reliable method to control the possible drift of the cells over time in culture. Transcriptomic phenotyping combined with bioinformatics analysis can also be a useful approach to predict the response of the cells to treatments in terms of cell signaling activation, which can help to choose among several cell lines the most appropriate one for the investigation of a particular mechanism. Taken together, the results from this study highlight the need to use well-characterized cell lines with standardized protocols to generate reproducible results from 1 laboratory to the other.
Rotating Day and Night Disturb Growth Hormone Secretion Profiles, Body Energy Metabolism, and Insulin Levels in Mice
Authors: Wang Weihao , Huang Zhengxiang , Huang Lili , Tan Chunlu , Chen Wanlin , Roelfsema Ferdinand , Chen Chen , Guo Lixin
Published: July 2021

Background: Insulin and growth hormone (GH) – 2 vital metabolic regulatory hormones – regulate glucose, lipid, and energy metabolism. These 2 hormones determine substrate and energy metabolism under different living conditions. Shift of day and night affects the clock system and metabolism probably through altered insulin and GH secretion. Methods: Five-week-old male mice were randomly assigned to a rotating light (RL) group (3-day normal light/dark cycle followed by 4-day reversed light/dark cycle per week) and normal light (NL) group. Body weight and food intake were recorded every week. Series of blood samples were collected for pulsatile GH analysis, glucose tolerance test, and insulin tolerance test at 9, 10, and 11 weeks from the start of intervention, respectively. Indirect calorimetric measurement was performed, and body composition was tested at 12 weeks. Expressions of energy and substrate metabolism-related genes were evaluated in pituitary and liver tissues at the end of 12-week intervention. Results: The RL group had an increased number of GH pulsatile bursts and reduced GH mass/burst. RL also disturbed the GH secretion regularity and mode. It suppressed insulin secretion, which led to a disturbed insulin/GH balance. It was accompanied by the reduced metabolic flexibility and modified gene expression involved in energy balance and substrate metabolism. Indirect calorimeter recording revealed that RL decreased the respiratory exchange ratio (RER) and oxygen consumption at the dark phase, which resulted in an increase in fat mass and free fatty acid levels in circulation. Conclusion: RL disturbed pulsatile GH secretion and decreased insulin secretion in male mice with significant impairment in energy, substrate metabolism, and body composition.
Avoidable Hospitalization for Heart Failure Among a Cohort of 18- to 64-Year-Old Italian Citizens and Immigrants: Results From the Italian Network for Longitudinal Metropolitan Studies
Authors: Dalla Zuanna Teresa , Cacciani Laura , Barbieri Giulia , Batzella Erich , Tona Francesco , Ferracin Elisa , Spadea Teresa , Di Girolamo Chiara , Caranci Nicola , Petrelli Alessio , Marino Claudia , Canova Cristina
Published: July 2021

Background:

Heart failure (HF) represents a severe public health burden. In Europe, differences in hospitalizations for HF have been found between immigrants and native individuals, with inconsistent results. Immigrants face many barriers in their access to health services, and their needs may be poorly met. We aimed to compare the rates of avoidable hospitalization for HF among immigrants and native individuals in Italy.

Methods:

All 18- to 64-year-old residents of Turin, Venice, Reggio Emilia, Modena, Bologna, and Rome between January 1, 2001 and December 31, 2013 were included in this multicenter open-cohort study. Immigrants from high migratory pressure countries (divided by area of origin) were compared with Italian citizens. Age-, sex-, and calendar year-adjusted hospitalization rate ratios and the 95% CIs of avoidable hospitalization for HF by citizenship were estimated using negative binomial regression models. The hospitalization rate ratios were summarized using a random effects meta-analysis. Additionally, we tested the contribution of socioeconomic status to these disparities.

Results:

Of the 4 470 702 subjects included, 15.8% were immigrants from high migratory pressure countries. Overall, immigrants showed a nonsignificant increased risk of avoidable hospitalization for HF (hospitalization rate ratio, 1.26 [95% CI, 0.97–1.68]). Risks were higher for immigrants from Sub-Saharan Africa and for males from Northern Africa and Central-Eastern Europe than for their Italian citizen counterparts. Risks were attenuated adjusting for socioeconomic status, although they remained consistent with nonadjusted results.

Conclusions:

Adult immigrants from different geographic macroareas had higher risks of avoidable hospitalization for HF than Italian citizens. Possible explanations might be higher risk factors among immigrants and reduced access to primary health care services.
Primula dujiangyanensis (Primulaceae) discovered from Sichuan, Southwest China
Authors: JU WEN-BIN , DENG HENG-NING , ZHU DA-HAI , GAO YUN-DONG , GAO XIN-FEN , XU BO
Published: July 2021

Primula dujiangyanensis, a new species from Dujiangyan, Sichuan of China, is described and illustrated here. The new species is morphologically similar to P. kialensis and P. pengzhouensis, but it can be distinguished from the latter species by dense white hairs at roots, long stolons, smaller plants and leaves, solitary scape arising from leaf rosette, single lanceolate bract, and shorter pedicel, and it also showed different positions of anthers and styles in the corolla tube.
Opuntia leoglossa sp. nov. (Cactaceae): a new identity for the aloctone “Lion’s Tongue” cactus
Authors: KÖHLER MATIAS , FONT FABIÁN
Published: July 2021

Recent studies have shown that a worldwide cultivated plant known as “Lion’s Tongue” has been historically and wrongly assigned to another taxon name (Opuntia schickendantzii). After a literature study and the examination of herbarium specimens, we propose to describe the “Lion’s Tongue” as Opuntia leoglossa sp. nov. Although a hybrid origin or artificial selection is speculated, further studies must be carried out to better understand this taxon which has a hitherto unknown origin.
Planothidum audax sp. nov. (Bacillariophyta, Achnanthidiaceae), a new diatom from temporary streams in southern Portugal
Authors: MORALES EDUARDO A. , NOVAIS MARIA HELENA , GARCÍA MARÍA LUJÁN , MAIDANA NORA I. , MORAIS MARIA MANUELA
Published: July 2021

Temporary streams represent ca. half of the river network at the worldwide level, and in regions such as southern Europe their dominance of the landscape is evident (Larned et al. 2010, McDonough et al. 2011, Barbosa et al. 2020). Currently, these streams are receiving increased attention due to their importance as high diversity spots for algae, arthropods, plants, etc., and due to the ecosystem services they provide (Acuña et al. 2014, Datry et al. 2018b). Because of their geographical position and the land use changes in their watersheds (increased urbanization, agriculture, etc.), climate change, contamination and habitat fragmentation constitute forces threatening their integrity and ecological characteristics (Datry et al. 2018a, Bonada et al. 2020).
Description of a new species of Myrmecotypus (Araneae: Corinnidae: Castianeirinae), the first of its genus known from Paraguay, with an updated key to species
Authors: PETT BROGAN L.
Published: July 2021

The castianeirine spider genus Myrmecotypus O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1894 is reported from Paraguay for the first time, with the description of a new species, Myrmecotypus mboitui sp. nov. (♂♀) from the Ñeembucú Wetlands Complex of south-western Paraguay. The species belongs to a small group of Myrmecotypus with elongated and constricted abdomens. Illustrations of the diagnostic characters of the new species are provided. An updated key to the species of Myrmecotypus is presented.
Gold Nanoparticles with Dexmedetomidine Regulate GSK-3β to Reduce Neurocognitive Effects in Anesthetized Rats
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxia , Xing Zumin , Li Jiyuan , Tang Shuyi , Zhang Yiwen
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to explore the neurocognitive effects of dexmedetomidine-loaded gold nanoparticles (AuNPs-dexmedetomidine) on anesthetized rats. Sixty Sprague Dawley rats (age, 2–3 weeks; weight, 250–280 g) were randomly divided into three groups (n = 20):
the control group and two groups that received intraperitoneal injection of AuNPs-dexmedetomidine at 50 and 100 μg/kg each. Western blotting and RT-PCR were used to determine the protein and mRNA expression of GSK-3β, respectively. Compared with that in the control group,
GSK-3β expression in AuNP-dexmedetomidine groups increased (P < 0.05). The protein expression of GSK-3β was higher and mRNA expression was significantly lower in the 100 μg/kg AuNP-dexmedetomidine group (P < 0.05). AuNPs-dexmedetomidine reduced the neurocognitive
effect on anesthetized rats through the regulation of the GSK-3β signaling pathway.
Fabrication of Self-Healable, Robust Superhydrophobic Surfaces Using UV-Crosslinked Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Park Yeon-Ah , Ha Young-Geun
Published: July 2021

Studies on fabricating robust superhydrophobic surfaces by a low-cost method have been rare, despite the recent demand for nature-inspired superhydrophobic surfaces including self-healing ability in various industrial applications. Herein, we propose a fabrication method for self-healable,
robust superhydrophobic nanocomposite films by facile solution-processed spray coating and UV curing. The components of the coating solution include functionalized hydrophobic silica nanoparticles for producing high roughness hierarchical textured structures with low surface energy, and UV-crosslinkable
v-POSS and bi-thiol hydrocarbon molecules to improve the film stability. As a result of the synergetic effect of the hydrophobic nanoparticles and UV-crosslinked polymeric compounds, the spray-coated and UV-cured nanocomposite films possess excellent superhydrophobicity (water contact angles
> 150º) and high stability, in addition to self-healing abilities.
Carboxymethyl Cellulose Hydrogel Based Formulations of Zinc Hydroxide Nitrate-Sodium Dodecylsulphate-Bispyribac Nanocomposite: Advancements in Controlled Release Formulation of Herbicide
Authors: Mohd Sharif Sharifah Norain , Hashim Norhayati , Md Isa Illyas , Abu Bakar Suriani , Idris Saidin Mohamad , Syahrizal Ahmad Mohamad , Mamat Mazidah , Zobir Hussein Mohd , Zainul Rahadian
Published: July 2021

The usefulness of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as a matrix material in enhancing the controlled release formulations of bispyribac (BP) herbicide from the interlayer gallery of zinc hydroxide nitratesodium dodecylsulphate–bispyribac (ZHN–SDS–BP) nanocomposite was
investigated. The CMC coated nanocomposite, ZHN–SDS–BP–CMC was characterised using several instruments for the determination of its physicochemical properties. The release rates of the BP were measured using a UV spectrophotometer, and the aqueous solutions containing PO3−4
, SO2−4 and Cl− were selected as release media in the release studies so as to mimic the real conditions of environmental soil. Significant release time delays, triggered by the gelation forming ability and hygroscopic nature of CMC, were observed
in all release media, and the release processes were found to behave in a concentration-dependent manner in all release media. Fitting the release data into several kinetic models demonstrated that release in aqueous solutions of Na3PO4 and Na2SO4
was governed by pseudo second order processes, whereas the release in an aqueous NaCl solution was governed by the parabolic diffusion kinetic model. The potential of CMC in prolonging the release of BP from ZHN–SDS–BP–CMC can potentially help in reducing the pollution resulting
from the overuse of pesticides.
A Simple Hydrothermal Synthesis of Cadmium Sulfide Wrapped on Graphene Nanocomposite for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Balu Ranjith , Dakshanamoorthy Arivuoli
Published: July 2021

Supercapacitor with high specific capacity is desirable for various energy storage and high powerdensity applications. Though Graphene has been the preferred material for high current density, nanocomposites have been attempted to increase the specific capacitance. Hydrothermal synthesis
of cadmium sulfide/graphene (CdS/G) nanocomposite with CdS nanoparticles anchored/decorated over the graphene sheets is reported. The structural studies reveal the hexagonal phase of the prepared materials. The specific surface area (BET) and porosity is found to increase upon nanocomposite
formation. The electrochemical characteristics such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), GCD and EIS of the CdS/G nanocomposite have been investigated. The capacitance of CdS/G nanocomposite almost doubled to 248 Fg−1 indicating the enhanced performance of the nanocomposite system
and in addition it also showed excellent cycling stability of 74.8 percent after 1000 cycles. The supercapacitor investigated retained the initial energy density after charge-discharge, at 0.5 A/g for 1000 cycles. The graphene nanosheets increased the specific surface area and interfacial
electron transfer of the composite material. It enhances the specific capacitance and cyclic stability of the supercapacitor device.
Highly Efficient and Thermally Stable Eu2+-Doped Ca9Nd(PO4)7 Phosphor for Near-Ultraviolet White-Emission LED Applications
Authors: Zhou Jian , Ren Si-Li
Published: July 2021

Various Eu2+-based Ca9Nd(PO4)7 (CNP:xEu2+, with different x values) materials are prepared via facile solid-state reaction. Their crystal structures are investigated in detail by means of the Rietveld refinement. The structure
of CNP:Eu2+ with a trigonal lattice is analogous to that of β-Ca3(PO4)2. Therefore, Eu2+ ions tend to incorporate calcium sites in the host. All the obtained samples can be excited using near ultraviolet (nUV) light to present blue-green
emission. An optimal dopant concentration is verified at x = 0.8 with a large critical interaction radius (11.21 Å). The mechanism of the concentration quenching effect is assigned to the multipole-multipole interaction. CNP:xEu2+ possesses a short decay lifetime of
∼60 μs and can endure severe working conditions thanks to its great thermal stability. The relative photoluminescence (PL) intensity of CNP:0.8Eu2+ can retain 84.75% of the pristine intensity measured at room temperature, and the relative intensity remains as high
as 69.97% at 423 K. The CNP:Eu2+ phosphors also show great performance in the WLED demonstration. The correlated color temperature (CCT) of the prototype device is 3404 K, with an extremely high Ra (97.6). Therefore, CNP:xEu2+ could be regarded as a promising alternative
to blue green phosphors in nUV chip-based WLED applications.
Engineering the Band Structures of Zigzag Blue Phosphorene and Arsenene Nanoribbons by Incorporating Edge Corrugations: A First Principles Exploration
Authors: Dey Aditya , Chakraborty Debalina
Published: July 2021

Using first principles calculations, we have presented a short study on modulation of band structures and electronic properties of zigzag blue phosphorene (ZbPNR) and arsenene nanoribbons (ZANR) by etching the edges of NRs. We have taken the width of both NRs as N = 8 and corrugated
the edges in a cosine-like manner. Optimizing every structure and further investigating their stabilities, it was seen that both the etched NRs are energetically feasible. From the computed band structures, the band gaps were seen to be increased for both the NRs on increasing number of etched
layers and direct gap semiconductor nature was recorded. Highest energy gap observed were 2.26 and 2.41 eV for ZbPNR and ZANR, respectively. On further application of electric field, we observed the very interesting semiconductor-to-metallic property transition which was explained by wave
function plots. Being elements of same group, a similar trend of band gaps modulations was observed for both NRs. This fascinating method of electronic property tuning of the studied NRs can be useful in various nanoscale electronic applications.
A Reduction Active Theranostic Nanoparticle for Enhanced Near-Infrared Imaging and Phototherapy by Reducing Glutathione Level in Cancer Cells
Authors: Song Xiaofang , Ruan Lifo , Zheng Tianyu , Wei Jun , Zhang Jiayu , Lu Huiru , Lu Huiru , Hu Yi , Chen Jun , Xue Yanan
Published: July 2021

Facile preparation of a tumoral-stimuli-activated theranostic nanoparticle with simple constituents remains a challenge for tumor theranostic nanosystems. Herein we design a simple reductionresponsive turn-on theranostic nanoparticle for achieving fluorescent imaging and phototherapy
combination. The theranostic nanoparticle is prepared by a simple one-step dialysis method of reduction active amphiphilic hyperbranched poly(β-amidoamines) and a near-infrared (NIR) dye indocyanine green (ICG). The fluorescence of ICG is quenched by the aggregation-caused quenching
(ACQ) effect. The fluorescent intensity of free ICG at 816 nm was ∼40 times as high as that of particulate ICG. After reductive nanoparticles incubated with dithiothreitol (DTT), the size of the nanoparticles increased from 160 nm to 610 nm by Dynamic light scattering (DLS). As nanoparticles
were internalized by cancer cells, the disulfide bonds would be cleaved by intracellular reduction agents like glutathione (GSH), leading to the release of entrapped ICG. The released ICG regained its fluorescence for self-monitoring the release and therapeutic effect of ICG by fluorescence
spectra and the quantitative evaluation of NIR fluorescence intensity. Remarkably, nanoparticles can also reinforce antitumor efficacy through photodynamic therapy and GSH depletion property. This study provides new insights into designing turn-on theranostic systems.
Evaluation of Nano-Particulate-Matter-Induced Lung Injury in Mice Using Quantitative Micro-Computed Tomography
Authors: Mao Meiru , Kong Jianglong , Chen Kui , Zhang Jiaxin , Chen Ziteng , Li Jiacheng , Chang Yanan , Yuan Hui , Shi Xiaoyue , Chen Guogang , Zhang Jian , Li Juan
Published: July 2021

Nano-particulate matters (NPM) induced the lung injury in mice were evaluated using quantitative micro-computed tomography in the present article. It is an important negative effect of health problems that NPM exposure provokes changes in the lung injury. The micro-computed tomography
(CT) to assess lung injury in mouse models has been investigated. The dynamic structural changes in a NPM-induced lung injury mouse mode were monitored. Adults female BALB/C mice were repeatedly exposed to NPM, and micro-CT scans were performed at day 0, 3, 5 and 9. Lung samples were also
collected for histological analysis at each time point. The total lung volume, the injured lung volume, and the normal lung volume were defined and calculated volume during the phase of NPM-exposure on the mice. The total and injured lung volumes of NPM-exposed mice were significantly larger
than those of the mice at day 5 and 9. The data from micro-CT was consistent with alveolar enlargement and destruction by histological quantification from pathological section. The study for NPM-induced lung injury model by micro-CT may extend our understanding of the distinct pathophysiology
of NPM induced lung injury in mice.
Interactions of Ozone-Functionalized Activated Charcoal with SARS-Cov-2 Proteases Using Molecular Docking and Dynamics
Authors: Costa Araújo Hérica Daniele , Silva Arouche Tiago da , de Carvalho Junior Raul Nunes , Castro Ramalho Teodorico , Santos Borges Rosivaldo dos , de Oliveira Mozaniel Santana , Chagas Marques Francisco das , de Jesus Chaves Neto Antonio Maia
Published: July 2021

The high contamination by the SARS-Cov-2 virus has led to the search for ways to minimize contagion. Masks are used as part of a strategy of measures to suppress transmission and save lives. However, they are not sufficient to provide an adequate level of protection against COVID-19.
Activated charcoal has an efficient antibacterial action, adsorption and low cost. Here, the interaction between two molecules of activated carbon was analyzed, interacting with two structures of the SARS-Cov-2, through docking and molecular dynamics using the platforms Autodock Vina 4.2.6,
Gaussian 09 and Amber 16. As a result, the complexes from ozone-functionalized coal to viral structures happen mainly through hydrophobic interactions at the binding site of each receptor. The values of the mean square deviations of the two systems formed by ligands/receptors and showed better
stability. The results of Gibbs free energy showed a better interaction between proteins and functionalized charcoal, with △Gtotal values of −48.530 and −38.882 kcal/mol. Thus, the set formed by combinations of proteins with functionalized activated carbon tends to more efficiently
adsorb the protein components of the coronavirus to the pores of the activated carbon with ozone during filtration.
Facilely Prepared Cl-Doped Graphene as an Efficient Anode for the Electrochemical Catalytic Degradation of Acetaminophen
Authors: Zhang Qian , Wang Bingxin , Hong Jun-Ming
Published: July 2021

The application of electrochemical catalytic oxidation in wastewater treatment with powerful Cldoped graphene as an anode has been discussed as a novel approach to degrade acetaminophen effectively. The characteristics of Cl-doped graphene that were related to Cl loading content and
microscopic morphology were analyzed by using several instruments, and the defects created by Cl doping were identified. Quenching experiments and electron paramagnetic resonance detection were proposed to clarify the mechanism underlying the production of active free radicals by Cldopedgraphene.
The degradation results indicated that efficiency increased with the percentage of Cl atoms doped into the graphene. The best degradation efficiency of acetaminophen could reach 98% when Cl-GN-12 was used. In the process of electrocatalytic oxidation, O•−2,
and active chlorine, as the main active species, persistently attacked acetaminophen into open-ring intermediates, such as 4-chlororesorcinol, and finally into CO2 and H2O.
Observational case study of a persistent cold pool and gap flow in the Columbia River Basin
Authors: Adler Bianca , Wilczak James M. , Bianco Laura , Djalalova Irina , Duncan James B. , Turner David D.
Published: July 2021

Persistent cold pools form as layers of cold stagnant air within topographical depressions mainly during wintertime when the near-surface air cools and/or the air aloft warms and daytime surface heating is insufficient to mix out the stable layer. An area often affected by persistent cold pools is the Columbia River Basin in the Pacific Northwest, when a high-pressure system east of the Cascade Range promotes radiative cooling and easterly flow. The only major outflow for the easterly flow is through the narrow Columbia River Gorge which cuts through the north-south oriented Cascade Range and often experiences very strong gap flows. Observations collected during the Second Wind Forecast Improvement Project (WFIP2) are used to study a persistent cold pool in the Columbia River Basin between 10-19 Jan 2017 which was associated with a strong gap flow. We used data from various remote sensing and in situ instruments and a optimal estimation physical retrieval to obtain thermodynamic profiles to address the temporal and spatial characteristics of the cold pool and gap flow and to investigate the physical processes involved during formation, maintenance and decay. While large-scale temperature advection occurred during all phases, we found that the cold pool vertical structure was modulated by the existence of low-level clouds and that turbulent shear-induced mixing and downslope wind storms likely played a role during its decay.
A Moments View of Climatology and Variability of the Asian Summer Monsoon Anticyclone
Authors: Manney Gloria L. , Santee Michelle L. , Lawrence Zachary D. , Wargan Krzysztof , Schwartz Michael J.
Published: July 2021

A comprehensive investigation of the climatology of and interannual variability and trends in the Asian summer monsoon anticyclone (ASMA) is presented, based on a novel area and moments analysis. Moments include centroid location, aspect ratio, angle, and “excess kurtosis” (measuring how far the shape is from elliptical) for an equivalent ellipse with the same area as the ASMA. Key results are robust among the three modern reanalyses studied. The climatological ASMA is nearly elliptical, with its major axis aligned along its centroid latitude and a typical aspect ratio of ~5–8. The ASMA centroid shifts northward with height, northward and westward during development, and in the opposite direction as it weakens. New evidence finding no obvious climatological bimodality in the ASMA reinforces similar suggestions from previous studies using modern reanalyses. Most trends in ASMA moments are not statistically significant. ASMA area and duration, however, increased significantly during 1979–2018; the 1958–2018 record analyzed for one reanalysis suggests that these trends may have accelerated in recent decades. ASMA centroid latitude is significantly positively (negatively) correlated with subtropical jet-core latitude (altitude), and significantly negatively correlated with concurrent ENSO; these results are consistent with and extend previous work relating monsoon intensity, ENSO, and jet shifts. ASMA area is significantly positively correlated with the multivariate ENSO index 2 months previously. These results improve our understanding of the ASMA using consistently defined diagnostics of its size, geometry, interannual variability, and trends that have not previously been analyzed.
The Origin and Fate of Subantarctic Mode Water in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Li Zhi , England Matthew H. , Groeskamp Sjoerd , Cerovečki Ivana , Luo Yiyong
Published: July 2021

Subantarctic Mode Water (SAMW) forms in deep mixed layers just north of the Antarctic Circumpolar Current in winter, playing a fundamental role in the ocean uptake of heat and carbon. Using a gridded Argo product and the ERA-Interim reanalysis for years 2004-2018, the seasonal evolution of the SAMW volume is analyzed using both a kinematic estimate of the subduction rate and a thermodynamic estimate of the air-sea formation rate. The seasonal SAMW volume changes are separately estimated within the monthly mixed layer and in the interior below it. We find that the variability of SAMW volume is dominated by changes in SAMW volume in the mixed layer. The seasonal variability of SAMW volume in the mixed layer is governed by formation due to air-sea buoyancy fluxes (45%, lasting from July to August), entrainment (35%), and northward Ekman transport across the Subantarctic Front (10%). The interior SAMW formation is entirely controlled by exchanges between the mixed layer and the interior (i.e. instantaneous subduction), which occurs mainly during August-October. The annual mean subduction estimate from a Lagrangian approach shows strong regional variability with hotspots of large SAMW subduction. The SAMW subduction hotspots are consistent with the distribution and export pathways of SAMW over the central and eastern parts of the south Indian and Pacific Oceans. Hotspots in the south Indian Ocean produce strong subduction of 8 and 9 Sv for the light and southeast Indian SAMW, respectively, while SAMW subduction of 6 and 4 Sv occurs for the central and southeast Pacific SAMW, respectively.
Transition from Fog to Stratus over the Northwest Pacific Ocean: Large-eddy Simulation
Authors: Yang Liu , Liu Jing-Wu , Xie Shang-Ping , Shen Samuel S. P.
Published: July 2021

Over the midlatitude northwest Pacific Ocean, summer fog frequents the Kuroshio-Oyashio front as a result of the warm advection by the prevailing southerly to southwesterly winds, and stratus clouds are prevalent downstream of the fog regime in the subpolar northwest Pacific. The present study tracks a boundary-layer air column along a typical northeastward trajectory along which fog on the sea surface temperature (SST) front makes its transition to stratus clouds. A turbulence-closure large-eddy simulation model can capture the evolution of the air column forced by the time-varying SST along the trajectory. Results show that the surface cooling effects across the SST front and the longwave radiative cooling (LRC) at the cloud top dominate the evolution of the boundary layer and the related turbulent processes. The sharp SST decrease across the SST front cools the surface layer, leading to condensation through shear-induced turbulence. Once the fog forms, the LRC at the fog top cools the boundary layer strongly through thermal turbulent mixing. The buoyancy-induced turbulence near the fog top entrains the warm and dry air from the free atmosphere into the boundary layer, reducing surface humidity and ultimately lifting the cloud base away from the sea surface to form stratus clouds. Sensitivity simulations also suggest that neither the latent heat flux from ocean nor and the diurnal solar variation is essential for the summer fog-to-stratus transition over the northwestern Pacific.
A Study on Social Change of Tribal Women in Nabarangpur District of Odisha
Authors: Panda Pradeep Kumar
Published: July 2021

The tribal communities in Central India are excluded in many ways from accessing and benefiting from the fruits of mainstream development. Within tribal groups, women are more marginalised and sidelined than men despite their multiple roles in the household. Women’s exclusion from the mainstream knowledge systems, market sphere and their limited access and control over the resources affects the overall development of tribal communities. Key for economic growth of tribal communities is the equal participation and promotion of women’s physical and economic rights. This necessitates for a purposive design of activities and institutional mechanisms for both socially inclusive economic empowerment and environmentally sustainable growth by building their knowledge and skills to restore agriculture based value chains for sustainable livelihood. The present article is an attempt to analyse and document the findings of an inclusive cashew livelihood model to address the geographical, social, technological and economic inclusion of 10,000 tribal women in the cashew supply chain and downstream market integration to improve their income in Nabarangpur district of Odisha state. It is found that by employing inclusive strategies, scientific technologies and participative approaches, the socially excluded women could be organised, engaged and integrated successfully by leveraging proven cashew-based livelihood model in the value chains and markets for increasing their income.
Ultra battery application for adaptive model predictive control in wind penetrated power systems
Authors: Dar S Zahid Nabi
Published: July 2021

This work pertains to utilization of small sized Ultrabattery (UB) in wind penetrated power system for LFC. Matlab level 2 S function coding is used to develop a custom made block for adaptive model predictive control for intelligent applications. Inner loop of UB is genetically tuned to mimic the first order reference system; the tuned storage system is connected with wind penetrated power system; with its voltage loop coupled to a function NACE (new area control error) for. A Staircase disturbance is introduced in wind penetrated power system. Investigation studies carried in MATLAB SIMULINK Environment reflect significant improvement in frequency response and tie power deviation of the system. The small rated UB combined with inertial response from wind farms marks for profitable operation. UB voltage and power response is also detailed and power constraints on power electronic converter are maintained within limits.
Social capital and co-location: A case study of policing anti-social behaviour
Authors: O’Malley Lisa , Grace Sharon
Published: July 2021

Existing evidence suggests that co-location may be emerging as a preferred model of multi-agency working between the police and a range of partner agencies, yet there is limited evidence available regarding the benefits and challenges of this specific type of initiative. This article draws on an evaluation case study of co-location between the police and a local authority established to improve responses to victims of anti-social behaviour. Co-located officers reported a range of benefits arising from the new arrangements, and there was evidence of deep learning within and across teams. However, by including the experiences of those working outside the co-location more significant challenges became apparent, relating to ongoing relationships between officers and the wider force that we are unaware of from previous research. It is suggested that senior management should pay attention to managing changing relationships that occur in co-location to preserve existing social capital whilst exploiting opportunities arising from newly formed connections.
Effects of bone morphogenetic proteins on epithelial repair
Authors: Hou Yu , He Yu-Xi , Zhang Jia-Hao , Wang Shu-Rong , Zhang Yan
Published: July 2021

Epithelial tissue has important functions such as protection, secretion, and sensation. Epithelial damage is involved in various pathological processes. Bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are a class of growth factors with multiple functions. They play important roles in epithelial cells, including in differentiation, proliferation, and migration during the repair of the epithelium. This article reviews the functions and mechanisms of the most profoundly studied BMPs in the process of epithelial damage repair and their clinical significance.
Effects of Urban Particulate Matter on the Olfactory System in a Mouse Model
Authors: Kim Boo-Young , Park Ju Y. , Cho Kwang J. , Bae Jung H.
Published: July 2021

Background

Exposure to urban particulate matter (UPM) is linked to the aggravation of various health problems. Although the nasal cavity is the first barrier to encounter UPM, there is a lack of studies on the impact of UPM on the olfactory area. The purpose of this study was to investigate the cytotoxic effects of UPM on mouse olfactory epithelium, the underlying pathophysiology involved, and changes in cytokine levels.

Methods

Mice were divided into 4 groups: control, 400UPM (administered 400 µg UPM daily; standard reference material 1649b; average particle diameter 10.5 μm) 1week, 400UPM 2weeks, and recovery 1week after 400UPM 2weeks (n = 10, 6, 6, and 6, respectively). Olfactory function was evaluated by conducting a food-finding test once a week. The olfactory neuroepithelium was harvested for histologic examination, gene ontology, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and western blotting.

Results

Compared to those in the control group, olfactory marker protein, olfactory receptor 1507, adenylyl cyclase 3, and GNAL mRNA levels were lower and S-100, 2′,3′-cyclic nucleotide 30-phosphodiesterase, nerve growth factor receptor-associated protein, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and tachykinin receptor mRNA levels were higher in the 400UPM group olfactory neuroepithelium. There were no significant differences in neuroepithelial inflammatory marker levels between the 400UPM and saline group.

Conclusions

UPM decreased olfactory function and might have cytotoxic effects on the olfactory epithelium. Olfactory ensheathing cells and trigeminal nerve might be related to the regeneration of the olfactory epithelium after olfactory destruction associated with UPM.
Multi-omics profiling predicts allograft function after lung transplantation
Authors: Watzenboeck Martin L. , Gorki Anna-Dorothea , Quattrone Federica , Gawish Riem , Schwarz Stefan , Lambers Christopher , Jaksch Peter , Lakovits Karin , Zahalka Sophie , Rahimi Nina , Starkl Philipp , Symmank Dörte , Artner Tyler , Pattaroni Céline , Fortelny Nikolaus , Klavins Kristaps , Frommlet Florian , Marsland Benjamin J. , Hoetzenecker Konrad , Widder Stefanie , Knapp Sylvia
Published: July 2021

Rationale

Lung transplantation is the ultimate treatment option for patients with end-stage respiratory diseases but bears the highest mortality rate among all solid organ transplantations due to chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD). The mechanisms leading to CLAD remain elusive due to an insufficient understanding of the complex post-transplant adaptation processes.

Objectives

To better understand these lung adaptation processes after transplantation and to investigate their association with future changes in allograft function.

Methods

We performed an exploratory cohort study of bronchoalveolar lavage samples from 78 lung recipients and donors. We analysed the alveolar microbiome using 16S rRNA sequencing, the cellular composition using flow cytometry, as well as metabolome and lipidome profiling.

Measurements and main results

We established distinct temporal dynamics for each of the analysed data sets. Comparing matched donor and recipient samples, we revealed that recipient-specific as well as environmental factors, rather than the donor microbiome, shape the long-term lung microbiome. We further discovered that the abundance of certain bacterial strains correlated with underlying lung diseases even after transplantation. A decline in forced expiratory volume during the first second (FEV1) is a major characteristic of lung allograft dysfunction in transplant recipients. By using a machine learning approach, we could accurately predict future changes in FEV1from our multi-omics data, whereby microbial profiles showed a particularly high predictive power.

Conclusion

Bronchoalveolar microbiome, cellular composition, metabolome and lipidome show specific temporal dynamics after lung transplantation. The lung microbiome can predict future changes in lung function with high precision.
Evaluating the relationship between citation set size, team size and screening methods used in systematic reviews: a cross-sectional study
Authors: O’Hearn Katie , MacDonald Cameron , Tsampalieros Anne , Kadota Leo , Sandarage Ryan , Jayawarden Supun Kotteduwa , Datko Michele , Reynolds John M. , Bui Thanh , Sultan Shagufta , Sampson Margaret , Pratt Misty , Barrowman Nick , Nama Nassr , Page Matthew , McNally James Dayre
Published: July 2021

Background

Standard practice for conducting systematic reviews (SRs) is time consuming and involves the study team screening hundreds or thousands of citations. As the volume of medical literature grows, the citation set sizes and corresponding screening efforts increase. While larger team size and alternate screening methods have the potential to reduce workload and decrease SR completion times, it is unknown whether investigators adapt team size or methods in response to citation set sizes. Using a cross-sectional design, we sought to understand how citation set size impacts (1) the total number of authors or individuals contributing to screening and (2) screening methods.

Methods

MEDLINE was searched in April 2019 for SRs on any health topic. A total of 1880 unique publications were identified and sorted into five citation set size categories (after deduplication): < 1,000, 1,001–2,500, 2,501–5,000, 5,001–10,000, and > 10,000. A random sample of 259 SRs were selected (~ 50 per category) for data extraction and analysis.

Results

With the exception of the pairwise t test comparing the under 1000 and over 10,000 categories (median 5 vs. 6, p = 0.049) no statistically significant relationship was evident between author number and citation set size. While visual inspection was suggestive, statistical testing did not consistently identify a relationship between citation set size and number of screeners (title-abstract, full text) or data extractors. However, logistic regression identified investigators were significantly more likely to deviate from gold-standard screening methods (i.e. independent duplicate screening) with larger citation sets. For every doubling of citation size, the odds of using gold-standard screening decreased by 15 and 20% at title-abstract and full text review, respectively. Finally, few SRs reported using crowdsourcing (n = 2) or computer-assisted screening (n = 1).

Conclusions

Large citation set sizes present a challenge to SR teams, especially when faced with time-sensitive health policy questions. Our study suggests that with increasing citation set size, authors are less likely to adhere to gold-standard screening methods. It is possible that adjunct screening methods, such as crowdsourcing (large team) and computer-assisted technologies, may provide a viable solution for authors to complete their SRs in a timely manner.
Determinants of neonatal mortality among newborns admitted in neonatal intensive care unit at Dilla University Referral Hospital in Gedeo Zone, Southern, Ethiopia: unmatched case control study
Authors: Adem Atnafu , Dache Azmach , Dona Aregahegn
Published: July 2021

Background

Around two and half million neonatal mortality occurred in 2017, especially in developing countries. This study was conducted to determine the determinants of neonatal mortality among newborns admitted in the neonatal intensive care unit at Dilla University Referral Hospital in Gedeo Zone, Southern Ethiopia.

Methods

An unmatched case-control study was conducted from February, 24 to March 6, 2020 at Dilla University Referral Hospital in Gedeo Zone Southern Ethiopia. A total of 304 neonates (76 cases and 228 controls) were involved. Neonates registered as died were considered as cases and neonates registered as improved were considered as controls. Data were extracted by pretested checklists from medical records of neonates admitted during the last one year period. Data was entered into EpiData3.1, and analyzed by statistical package for social science software Version 22.Bivariate and multivariate logistic regressions were used to identify determinants associated with neonatal mortality. Finally, AORs at 95 % CI and P-values < 0.05 were used to declare statistical significance.

Results

In this study, a total of 304 cases were assessed with 100 % reviewed rate. It was found that referrals from other health facilities, [AORs = 2.43, 95 % CI (1.14, 5.22)], gestational age < 37 weeks,[AORs = 2.50, 95 % CI (1.12, 5.58)], the weight of newborn < 2500 g, [AORs = 2.44, 95 % CI (1.13, 5.28)], neonates positive for sepsis, [AORs = 2.45, 95 % CI (1.11, 5.41)]and neonates who not breastfed within first hour after delivery,[AORs = 5.24, 95 % CI (2.42, 11.37)] were statistically significant determinants to neonatal mortality.

Conclusions

This study suggests that referral, gestational age, weight of newborn, sepsis and breastfeeding were significant determinants to neonatal mortality. This study shows that neonatal intensive care unit service should be strengthened in Dilla University Referral Hospital; targeting neonate aged below 28 days. Most of these determinants may be prevented and minimized by strengthening referral linkage, improving intrapartum and postpartum care.