bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of Preserved Tricuspid Valve Function for Effective Soft Robotic Augmentation of the Right Ventricle in Cases of Elevated Pulmonary Artery Pressure
Authors: Wamala Isaac , Payne Christopher J. , Saeed Mossab Y. , Bautista-Salinas Daniel , Van Story David , Thalhofer Thomas , Staffa Steven J. , Ghelani Sunil J. , del Nido Pedro J. , Walsh Conor J. , Vasilyev Nikolay V.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

In clinical practice, many patients with right heart failure (RHF) have elevated pulmonary artery pressures and increased afterload on the right ventricle (RV). In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of RV augmentation using a soft robotic right ventricular assist device (SRVAD), in cases of increased RV afterload.

Methods

In nine Yorkshire swine of 65–80 kg, a pulmonary artery band was placed to cause RHF and maintained in place to simulate an ongoing elevated afterload on the RV. The SRVAD was actuated in synchrony with the ventricle to augment native RV output for up to one hour. Hemodynamic parameters during SRVAD actuation were compared to baseline and RHF levels.

Results

Median RV cardiac index (CI) was 1.43 (IQR, 1.37–1.80) L/min/m2 and 1.26 (IQR 1.05–1.57) L/min/m2 at first and second baseline. Upon PA banding RV CI fell to a median of 0.79 (IQR 0.63–1.04) L/min/m2. Device actuation improved RV CI to a median of 0.87 (IQR 0.78–1.01), 0.85 (IQR 0.64–1.59) and 1.11 (IQR 0.67–1.48) L/min/m2 at 5 min (p = 0.114), 30 min (p = 0.013) and 60 (p = 0.033) minutes respectively. Statistical GEE analysis showed that lower grade of tricuspid regurgitation at time of RHF (p = 0.046), a lower diastolic pressure at RHF (p = 0.019) and lower mean arterial pressure at RHF (p = 0.024) were significantly associated with higher SRVAD effectiveness.

Conclusions

Short-term augmentation of RV function using SRVAD is feasible even in cases of elevated RV afterload. Moderate or severe tricuspid regurgitation were associated with reduced device effectiveness.
Solving the strong-correlation problem in materials
Authors: Pavarini Eva
Published: July 2021

This article is a short introduction to the modern computational techniques used to tackle the many-body problem in materials. The aim is to present the basic ideas, using simple examples to illustrate strengths and weaknesses of each method. We will start from density-functional theory (DFT) and the Kohn–Sham construction—the standard computational tools for performing electronic structure calculations. Leaving the realm of rigorous density-functional theory, we will discuss the established practice of adopting the Kohn–Sham Hamiltonian as approximate model. After recalling the triumphs of the Kohn–Sham description, we will stress the fundamental reasons of its failure for strongly-correlated compounds, and discuss the strategies adopted to overcome the problem. The article will then focus on the most effective method so far, the DFT+DMFT technique and its extensions. Achievements, open issues and possible future developments will be reviewed. The key differences between dynamical (DFT+DMFT) and static (DFT+U) mean-field methods will be elucidated. In the conclusion, we will assess the apparent dichotomy between first-principles and model-based techniques, emphasizing the common ground that in fact they share.
Assessing the Economic Structure, Climate Change and Decarbonisation in Europe
Authors: Giannakis Elias , Zittis George
Published: July 2021

Anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions coming mainly from fossil fuel combustion for energy use are causing air temperature increases resulting in climate change. This study employs an environmentally extended input–output model to conduct an economy-wide assessment of GHG emissions in the European Union (EU). Model results indicate that the assumed growth of economic activity by 2030 will lead to a large increase in GHG emissions by 89%, assuming no technological change and no additional policy mitigation efforts. The electricity sector and agriculture create the highest direct and indirect GHG emissions per unit of economic output across the 27 EU member states (EU-27); for every 1-million-euro-increase in the final demand for the products and services of the electricity sector and agriculture, 2198 and 1410 additional tons of GHG emit, respectively. Regional climate projections under a low-decarbonisation pathway (RCP8.5), in accordance with our economic analysis, indicate a further increase of regional warming, combined with pronounced changes in the hydrological cycle. Contrariwise, following a strong mitigation pathway (RCP2.6) will result in warming levels lower than 1.5 °C with respect to the 1986–2005 reference period. Our findings reveal the importance of both direct and indirect contribution of economic sectors in the generation of GHG emissions, taking into consideration the size of the sectors and the assumed growth rates. The design and implementation of sectoral emission reduction policies from the perspective of the whole production supply chain can effectively contribute to GHG emission reduction commitments.
SIRT7 is a deacetylase of N4-acetylcytidine on ribosomal RNA
Authors: Xu Chenzhong , Zhang Jin , Zhang Jie , Liu Baohua
Published: July 2021

N-acetyltransferase 10 catalyzes RNA N4-acetylcytidine (ac4C) modifications and thus regulates RNA stability and translation efficiency. However, the deacetylase for ac4C is unknown. SIRT7 was initially identified as an NAD+-dependent protein deacetylase and plays essential roles in genome stability, circadian rhythms, metabolism, and aging. In this study, we identified SIRT7 as a deacetylase of the ac4C of ribosomal (r)RNA for the first time and found it to be NAD+-independent. Our data highlight the important role of SIRT7 in rRNA ac4C modification and suggest an additional epitranscriptional regulation of aging.
Study design, general characteristics of participants, and preliminary findings from the metabolome, microbiome, and dietary salt intervention study (MetaSalt)
Authors: Ruan Zengliang , Li Jianxin , Liu Fangchao , Cao Jie , Chen Shufeng , Chen Jichun , Huang Keyong , Wang Yaqin , Li Hongfan , Wang Yan , Xue Zhongyu , Wang Laiyuan , Huang Jianfeng , Gu Dongfeng , Lu Xiangfeng
Published: July 2021

Background

High sodium intake is an important risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular disease. However, the association between gut microbiota composition and metabolomic profiles with dietary sodium intake and blood pressure (BP) is not well‐understood. The metabolome, microbiome, and dietary salt intervention (MetaSalt) study aimed to investigate microbial and metabolomic profiles related to dietary sodium intake and BP regulation.

Methods

This family‐based intervention study was conducted in four communities across three provinces in rural northern China in 2019. Probands with untreated prehypertension or stage‐1 hypertension were identified through community‐based BP screening, and family members including siblings, offspring, spouses, and parents were subsequently included. All participants participated in a 3‐day baseline examination with usual diet consumption, followed by a 10‐day low‐salt diet (3 g/d of salt or 51.3 mmol/d of sodium) and a 10‐day high‐salt diet (18 g/d of salt or 307.8 mmol/d of sodium). Differences in mean BP levels were compared according to the intervention phases using a paired Student's t‐test.

Results

A total of 528 participants were included in this study, with a mean age of 48.1 years, 36.7% of whom were male, 76.8% had a middle school (69.7%) or higher (7.1%) diploma, 23.4% had a history of smoking, and 24.4% were current drinkers. The mean arterial pressure at baseline was 97.2 ± 10.5 mm Hg for all participants, and significantly decreased during the low‐salt intervention (93.8 ± 9.3, P < 0.0001) and subsequently increased during the high‐salt intervention (96.4 ± 10.0, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

Our dietary salt intervention study has successfully recruited participants and will facilitate to evaluate the effects of gut microbiota and metabolites on BP regulation in response to sodium burden, which will provide important evidence for investigating the underlying mechanisms in the development of hypertension and subsequent cardiovascular diseases.

Trial registration

The study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry database (ChiCTR1900025171).
Understanding Islam at European Museums
Authors: Berg Magnus , Grinell Klas
Published: July 2021

Exhibitions of Islamic artefacts in European museums have since 1989 been surrounded by a growing rhetoric of cultural tolerance, in response to the dissemination of images of Islam as misogynist, homophobic and violent. This has produced a new public context for exhibitions of Islam and has led to major recent investments in new galleries for Islamic artefacts, often with financial support from the Gulf and Saudi Arabia. This Element addresses contemporary framings of Islam in European museums, focusing on how museums in Germany and the UK with collections of Islamic heritage realise the ICOM (International Council of Museums) definition of museums as institutions in the service of society. The authors find that far too often the knowledge of Islamic cultural heritage is disconnected from contemporary developments in museum transformations, as well as from the geopolitical contexts they are a response to.
As You Like It
Authors: Shakespeare William
Published: July 2021

Michael Hattaway's Introduction to this bestselling edition of As You Like It accounts for what makes this popular play both innocent and dangerous. This third edition includes a new section on recent critical interpretations, including sections on ecocriticism, peace studies, and myths of gender, on recent as well as past stage productions and films of the play, as well as fresh illustrations. An appendix on an early court performance in 1599, commentary on the play's language, the book trade, and the discursive cultures of its time, as well as an updated reading list are also included.
Centralized registry for COVID-19 research recruitment: Design, development, implementation, and preliminary results
Authors: Peeler Anna , Miller Hailey , Ogungbe Oluwabunmi , Lewis Land Cassia , Martinez Liz , Guerrero Vazquez Monica , Carey Scott , Murli Sumati , Singleton Megan , Lacanienta Cyd , Gleason Kelly , Ford Daniel , Himmelfarb Cheryl R.
Published: July 2021

Background:

The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had substantial global morbidity and mortality. Clinical research related to prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of COVID-19 is a top priority. Effective and efficient recruitment is challenging even without added constraints of a global pandemic. Recruitment registries offer a potential solution to slow or difficult recruitment.

Objectives:

The purpose of this paper is to describe the design and implementation of a digital research recruitment registry to optimize awareness and participant enrollment for COVID-19-related research in Baltimore and to report preliminary results.

Methods:

Planning began in March 2020, and the registry launched in July 2020. The primary recruitment mechanisms include electronic medical record data, postcards distributed at testing sites, and digital advertising campaigns. Following consent in a Research Electronic Data Capture survey, participants answer questions related to COVID-19 exposure, testing, and willingness to participate in research. Branching logic presents participants with studies they might be eligible for.

Results:

As of March 24, 2021, 9010 participants have enrolled, and 64.2% are female, 80.6% are White, 9.4% are Black or African American, and 6% are Hispanic or Latino. Phone outreach has had the highest response rate (13.1%), followed by email (11.9%), text (11.4%), and patient portal message (9.4%). Eleven study teams have utilized the registry, and 4596 matches have been made between study teams and interested volunteers.

Conclusion:

Effective and efficient recruitment strategies are more important now than ever due to the time-limited nature of COVID-19 research. Pilot efforts have been successful in connecting interested participants with recruiting study teams.
A comparative cross-sectional assessment of statistical knowledge of faculty across five health science disciplines
Authors: Hayat Matthew J. , Schwartz Todd A. , Kim MyoungJin , Ali Syeda Zahra , Jiroutek Michael R.
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

The purpose of this study was to compare statistical knowledge of health science faculty across accredited schools of dentistry, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and public health.

Methods:

A probability sample of schools was selected, and all faculty at each selected school were invited to participate in an online statistical knowledge assessment that covered fundamental topics including randomization, study design, statistical power, confidence intervals, multiple testing, standard error, regression outcome, and odds ratio.

Results:

A total of 708 faculty from 102 schools participated. The overall response rate was 6.5%. Most (94.2%) faculty reported reading the peer-reviewed health-related literature. Respondents answered 66.2% of questions correctly across all questions and disciplines. Public health had the highest performance (80.7%) and dentistry the lowest (53.3%).

Conclusions:

Knowledge of statistics is essential for critically evaluating evidence and understanding the health literature. These study results identify a gap in knowledge by educators tasked with training the next generation of health science professionals. Recommendations for addressing this gap are provided.
Recent progress of laboratory astrophysics with intense lasers
Authors: Takabe Hideaki , Kuramitsu Yasuhiro
Published: July 2021

Thanks to a rapid progress of high-power lasers since the birth of laser by T. H. Maiman in 1960, intense lasers have been developed mainly for studying the scientific feasibility of laser fusion. Inertial confinement fusion with an intense laser has attracted attention as a new future energy source after two oil crises in the 1970s and 1980s. From the beginning, the most challenging physics is known to be the hydrodynamic instability to realize the spherical implosion to achieve more than 1000 times the solid density. Many studies have been performed theoretically and experimentally on the hydrodynamic instability and resultant turbulent mixing of compressible fluids. During such activities in the laboratory, the explosion of supernova SN1987A was observed in the sky on 23 February 1987. The X-ray satellites have revealed that the hydrodynamic instability is a key issue to understand the physics of supernova explosion. After collaboration between laser plasma researchers and astrophysicists, the laboratory astrophysics with intense lasers was proposed and promoted around the end of the 1990s. The original subject was mainly related to hydrodynamic instabilities. However, after two decades of laboratory astrophysics research, we can now find a diversity of research topics. It has been demonstrated theoretically and experimentally that a variety of nonlinear physics of collisionless plasmas can be studied in laser ablation plasmas in the last decade. In the present paper, we shed light on the recent 10 topics studied intensively in laboratory experiments. A brief review is given by citing recent papers. Then, modeling cosmic-ray acceleration with lasers is reviewed in a following session as a special topic to be the future main topic in laboratory astrophysics research.
High glucose induces apoptosis, glycogen accumulation and suppresses protein synthesis in muscle cells of olive flounder Paralichthys olivaceus
Authors: Liu Jiahuan , Pan Mingzhu , Huang Dong , Wu Jing , Liu Yue , Guo Yanlin , Zhang Wenbing , Mai Kangsen
Published: July 2021

The effect and the mechanism of high glucose on fish muscle cells are not fully understood. In the present study, muscle cells of olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus) were treated with high glucose (33 mM) in vitro. Cells were incubated in three kinds of medium containing 5 mM glucose, 5 mM glucose and 28 mM mannitol (as an isotonic contrast) or 33 mM glucose named the Control group, the Mannitol group and the high glucose (HG) group, respectively. Results showed that high glucose increased the ADP:ATP ratio and the reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), induced the release of cytochrome C (CytC) and cell apoptosis. High glucose also led to cell glycogen accumulation by increasing the glucose uptake ability and affecting the mRNA expressions of glycogen synthase and glycogen phosphorylase. Meanwhile, it activated AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), inhibited the activity of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling pathway and the expressions of myogenic regulatory factors (MRF). The expressions of myostatin-1 (mstn-1) and E3 ubiquitin ligases including muscle RING-finger protein 1 (murf-1) and muscle atrophy F-box protein (mafbx) were also increased by the high glucose treatment. No difference was found between the Mannitol group and the Control group. These results demonstrate that high glucose has the effects of inducing apoptosis, increasing glycogen accumulation and inhibiting protein synthesis on muscle cells of olive flounder. The mitochondria-mediated apoptotic signalling pathway, AMPK and mTOR pathways participated in these biological effects.
Dietary flavonoid patterns and prostate cancer: evidence from a Mexican population-based case–control study
Authors: Galván-Portillo Marcia , Vázquez-Salas Ruth Argelia , Hernández-Pérez Jesús Gibran , Blanco-Muñoz Julia , López-Carrillo Lizbeth , Torres-Sánchez Luisa
Published: July 2021

Flavonoids are a broad group of bioactive compounds with anticarcinogenic effects on the prostate that have been scarcely evaluated in Latin American populations. Our objective was to evaluate the association between dietary patterns of flavonoid intake and prostate cancer (PC) in a population-based case–control study carried out in Mexico City. Based on a semi-quantitative FFQ with a frame reference of 3 years before diagnosis or interview, we used an updated database for estimating the daily intake (mg/d) of flavones, flavonols and flavanols for 395 confirmed incident PC cases and 797 population controls matched by age (± 5 years). Histological PC differentiation was evaluated using the Gleason score at diagnosis. Flavonoid dietary intake patterns (FDIP) were determined through principal component analysis, and their association with PC was estimated using logistic regression models. Three FDIP were identified: gallate pattern (GP) characterised by (–)-epicatechin-3-O-gallate, (–)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate and (+)-gallocatechin; luteolin pattern (LP) characterised by luteolin and (–)-epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate; and a mixed pattern (MP) that included (+)-catechin, (–)-epicatechin and quercetin. A higher GP (ORT3 v.T1 = 0·47; 95 % CI 0·33, 0·66) and LP intake (ORT3 v. T1 = 0·39; 95 % CI 0·27, 0·59) were associated with a decreased PC likelihood. In contrast, a higher MP intake (ORT3 v. T1 = 2·32; 95 % CI 1·67, 3·23) increased PC likelihood. The possible differential and synergistic anticarcinogenic role of flavonoid compounds in PC deserves further study.
Association between diet quality in adolescence and adulthood and knee symptoms in adulthood: a 25-year cohort study
Authors: Meng Tao , Wilson Johanna , Venn Alison , Cicuttini Flavia , March Lyn , Cross Marita , Dwyer Terence , Blizzard Leigh , Jones Graeme , Laslett Laura , Antony Benny , Ding Changhai
Published: July 2021

We aimed to describe associations between diet quality in adolescence and adulthood and knee symptoms in adulthood. Two hundred seventy-five participants had adolescent diet measurements, 399 had adult diet measurements and 240 had diet measurements in both time points. Diet quality was assessed by Dietary Guidelines Index (DGI), reflecting adherence to Australian Dietary Guidelines. Knee symptoms were collected using Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC). Data were analysed using zero-inflated negative binomial regressions. The overall adolescent DGI was not associated with adult knee symptoms, although lower intake of discretionary foods (e.g. cream, alcohol, bacon and cake) in adolescence was associated with lower pain (mean ratio (MR) 0·96) and dysfunction (MR 0·94). The overall adult DGI was not associated with knee symptoms; however, limiting saturated fat was associated with lower WOMAC (Pain: MR 0·93; stiffness: MR 0·93; dysfunction: MR 0·91), drinking water was associated with lower stiffness (MR 0·90) and fruit intake was associated with lower dysfunction (MR 0·90). Higher DGI for dairy products in adulthood was associated with higher WOMAC (Pain: MR 1·07; stiffness: MR 1·13; dysfunction: MR 1·11). Additionally, the score increases from adolescence to adulthood were not associated with adult knee symptoms, except for associations between score increase in limiting saturated fat and lower stiffness (MR 0·89) and between score increase in fruit intake and lower dysfunction (MR 0·92). In conclusion, the overall diet quality in adolescence and adulthood was not associated with knee symptoms in adulthood. However, some diet components may affect later knee symptoms.
The association of energy and macronutrient intake with all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease and dementia: findings from 120 963 women and men in the UK Biobank
Authors: McKenzie Briar L. , Harris Katie , Peters Sanne A. E. , Webster Jacqui , Woodward Mark
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to investigate the association between individual and combinations of macronutrients with premature death, CVD and dementia. Sex differences were investigated. Data were utilised from a prospective cohort of 120 963 individuals (57 % women) within the UK Biobank, who completed ≥ two 24-h diet recalls. The associations of macronutrients, as percentages of total energy intake, with outcomes were investigated. Combinations of macronutrients were defined using k-means cluster analysis, with clusters explored in association with outcomes. There was a higher risk of death with high carbohydrate intake (hazard ratios (HR), 95 % CI upper v. lowest third 1·13 (1·03, 1·23)), yet a lower risk with higher intakes of protein (upper v. lowest third 0·82 (0·76, 0·89)). There was a lower risk of CVD with moderate intakes (middle v. lowest third) of energy and protein (sub distribution HR (SHR), 0·87 (0·79, 0·97) and 0·87 (0·79, 0·96), respectively). There was a lower risk of dementia with moderate energy intake (SHR 0·71 (0·52, 0·96)). Sex differences were identified. The dietary cluster characterised by low carbohydrate, low fat and high protein was associated with a lower risk of death (HR 0·84 (0·76, 0·93)) compared with the reference cluster and a lower risk of CVD for men (SHR 0·83 (0·71, 0·97)). Given that associations were evident, both as single macronutrients and for combinations with other macronutrients for death, and for CVD in men, we suggest that the biggest benefit from diet-related policy and interventions will be when combinations of macronutrients are targeted.
Local versus long-distance bound implicit arguments of inalienable relational nouns in Chinese
Authors: KE ALAN HEZAO , PIRES ACRISIO
Published: July 2021

This paper argues that inalienable relational nouns in Mandarin Chinese, specifically kinship nouns (KNs, e.g. father, sister) and body-part nouns (BPNs, e.g. head, face), have an implicit reflexive argument. Based on a syntactic comparison between KNs, BPNs, locally and long-distance bound reflexives, we argue that the implicit reflexive arguments of BPNs must be locally bound, whereas that of KNs can either be locally or long-distance bound. We conclude that these two types of implicit arguments in Mandarin Chinese correspond to locally and long-distance bound reflexives, respectively. We analyze this difference in connection with binding theory and a theory of logophoricity. We argue that the implicit argument of BPNs is a locally bound anaphor and cannot be used as a logophor, whereas that of KNs can, supporting a proposal that the logophoric property leads to long-distance binding, as argued by Huang & Liu’s (2001) for reflexives in Mandarin Chinese.
An energy and momentum conserving collisional bracket for the guiding-centre Vlasov–Maxwell–Landau model
Authors: Iorio Riccardo N. , Hirvijoki Eero
Published: July 2021

This paper proposes a metric bracket for representing Coulomb collisions in the so-called guiding-centre Vlasov–Maxwell–Landau model. The bracket is manufactured to preserve the same energy and momentum functionals as does the Vlasov–Maxwell part and to simultaneously satisfy a revised version of the H-theorem, where the equilibrium distributions with respect to collisional dynamics are identified as Maxwellians. This is achieved by exploiting the special projective nature of the Landau collision operator and the simple form of the system's momentum functional. A discussion regarding a possible extension of the results to electromagnetic drift-kinetic and gyrokinetic systems is included. We anticipate that energy conservation and entropy dissipation can always be manufactured whereas guaranteeing momentum conservation is a delicate matter yet to be resolved.
Equivalency in joint signatures for binary/multi-state systems of different sizes
Authors: Yi He , Balakrishnan Narayanaswamy , Li Xiang
Published: July 2021

The joint signatures of binary-state and multi-state (semi-coherent or mixed) systems with i.i.d. (independent and identically distributed) binary-state components are considered in this work. For the comparison of pairs of binary-state systems of different sizes, transformation formulas of their joint signatures are derived by using the concept of equivalent systems and a generalized triangle rule for order statistics. Similarly, for facilitating the comparison of pairs of multi-state systems of different sizes, transformation formulas of their multi-state joint signatures are also derived. Some examples are finally presented to illustrate and to verify the theoretical results established here.
The historical dynamics of US financial exchanges
Authors: Jørgensen Bjørn N. , Kavajecz Kenneth A. , Swisher Scott N.
Published: July 2021

The historical dynamics of entry and exit in the financial exchange industry are analyzed for a panel of 327 US exchanges from 1855 through 2012. We focus on economic, technological and regulatory factors. Using novel panel data evidence, we empirically test whether these factors are consistent with existing financial theories. We find that US exchanges are more likely to exit per year after the passage of the Securities Exchange Act. The telephone, literacy and regulation are robust predictors of financial exchange dynamics, whereby an upward trend in literacy is an important driver of exchange entry.
The role of pawnshops in risk coping in early twentieth-century Japan
Authors: Inoue Tatsuki
Published: July 2021

This study examines the role of pawnshops as a risk-coping device in Japan in the early twentieth century, when the poor were very vulnerable to unexpected shocks such as illness. In contrast to European countries, Japanese pawnshops were the primary financial institution for low-income people up to the 1920s. Using data on pawnshop loans for more than 250 municipalities and exploiting the 1918–20 influenza pandemic as a natural experiment, we find that the adverse health shock increased the total amount of loans from pawnshops. This is because those who regularly relied on pawnshops borrowed more money from them than usual, and not because the number of people who used pawnshops increased. Our estimation results indicate that pawnshop loan amounts increased by approximately 7–10 percent due to the pandemic. These findings suggest that pawnshop loans were widely used as a risk-coping strategy.
Legitimacy and Policy during Crises: Subnational COVID-19 Responses in Bolivia
Authors: Velasco-Guachalla V. Ximena , Hummel Calla , Nelson-Nuñez Jami , Boulding Carew
Published: July 2021

Why did some Bolivian departments have more success containing COVID-19 than others? We argue that low government legitimacy hampers coordinated responses to national crises, particularly where political polarization is severe and the crisis response becomes politicized. Low legitimacy can intensify the challenges of poverty and poor infrastructure. An original dataset of daily observations on subnational coronavirus policy and cell phone mobility data, paired with administrative data on cases and deaths, suggests that political divisions influenced governors’ policy implementation and citizens’ compliance. In departments that opposed the president, policies were more likely to deviate from the stricter national policy while mobility and protest activity were high. In departments aligned with the president, local policy followed national policy and citizens complied with policy and quarantine restrictions for a longer period of time.
Global Land Surface Dry/Wet Conditions Mining Based on Spatial‐Temporal Association Rules
Authors: Zheng Kun , Qin Wei , Du Xiaoping
Published: July 2021

Severe drought and wetness would have serious impacts on human society and natural environment. Discovering the implicit relationships among severely dry/wet conditions is of great significance for meteorological disaster early warning and risk management strategy formulation. In this study, we propose an improved spatial‐temporal association rule mining algorithm to mine the global dry/wet associations. A modified time‐lagged association rule mining algorithm is first developed to mine unit‐to‐unit dry/wet association rules. Then, a density‐based clustering algorithm is employed to identify associated dry/wet zones. The gridded Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) data sets at 12‐ and 3‐month time scales were used to characterize annual and seasonal dry/wet conditions. Analysis results show that there are strong dry/wet associations between many regions. Some of the discovered association rules reflect similar associations with known phenomena, indicating the effectiveness and feasibility of the method. Other rules were previously unknown and can provide new knowledge for this research field. Several predictions can be made according to the discovered rules that western Oman and southeastern Saudi Arabia would suffer severe or extreme drought in 2021 and northwestern China would suffer severe or extreme drought in 2025 with probabilities exceeding 77%; northwestern China, northern Argentina, and western Australia would experience severe or extreme wetness in 2021, 2022, and 2023, respectively, with probabilities exceeding 85%. The algorithm provides a new perspective for analyzing dry/wet associations and the discovered associations can be used as theoretical bases for local governments to take precautions to mitigate the potential impacts of severe drought or wetness.
Biogeochemical Gradients in a Serpentinization‐Influenced Aquifer: Implications for Gas Exchange Between the Subsurface and Atmosphere
Authors: Sabuda Mary C. , Putman Lindsay I. , Hoehler Tori M. , Kubo Michael D. , Brazelton William J. , Cardace Dawn , Schrenk Matthew O.
Published: July 2021

Serpentinization involves the hydration and alteration of ultramafic rocks, which produces hydrogen (H2) and methane (CH4) and results in distinctive groundwater chemistries. As reacted fluids mix with recharging surface water, gradients in chemistry and microbiology develop in the subsurface. We present a comprehensive analysis of biogeochemical gradients in the water column of a serpentinite‐hosted well, CSW1.1, at the Coast Range Ophiolite Microbial Observatory (CROMO) in California, USA. Samples for geochemistry, 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and metagenomics were collected at four discrete depths from the top of the well corresponding to 100%, 50%, 15%, and 0% of atmospheric oxygen (O2) levels, and from the well base at 19.5 m depth. Gibbs energy calculations assessed the energy available for a suite of reactions coupled to O2, sulfate (SO42−), and nitrate (NO3−). Metagenomic data from the profile was used to construct metagenome assembled genomes (MAGs) to evaluate the completeness of biochemical pathways and compare the relative abundance of key diagnostic genes. Bioenergetic data point to the favorability of CH4 oxidation reactions despite little genetic evidence for this. Amplicon sequencing results highlight the abundance of key taxa affiliated with the genera Truepera, Serpentinomonas, and Dethiobacter. Although concentrations of NO3− and H2 are low, genes for NO3− reduction and oxidation of H2 and carbon monoxide (CO) were found in high abundance. Conceptual modeling results demonstrate the net depletion of H2 and CO in the groundwater, the consumption of CO2 and O2, and the potential for CH4 emission into the atmosphere at this terrestrial site of serpentinization.
Nutrient Budgets Calculated in Floodwaters Using a Whole‐Ecosystem Reservoir Creation and Flooding Experiment
Authors: Talbot Ceara J. , Paterson Michael J. , Beaty Kenneth G. , Bodaly Richard A. (Drew) , Xenopoulos Marguerite A.
Published: July 2021

Flooding in forested areas can release nutrients via organic matter flushing and organic matter decomposition and contribute to nutrient loading in aquatic ecosystems. Organic matter content may set an upper limit for nutrient release during flooding, but variation in timing, depth, duration of inundation, and site organic matter substrate inhibit comparison across sites and events. We used data collected during a whole‐ecosystem flooding experiment conducted at the IISD‐Experimental Lakes Area (ELA) in northwestern Ontario to examine the relationship between site organic matter content and nutrient release on both a short‐term (first 3 weeks) and annual scale (open‐water season). Three upland forest sites with differing amounts of organic matter stored in soil and vegetation were flooded to create experimental reservoirs. We hypothesized that the magnitude of nutrient release would be related to the organic matter content in each site. We found that nutrient concentrations increased relative to low‐nutrient water pumped into each reservoir at both scales, but there was no relationship between site organic matter content and short‐term total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) concentrations or annual TN and TP fluxes. Additionally, N and P release rates differed, decreasing TN:TP ratios in reservoirs and outflows relative to inflows. Nutrient concentrations increased immediately after inundation each year and continued for 5 years of repeated flooding. Predicted increases in flooding due to changing precipitation patterns and reservoir creation may cause forested areas to be a long‐term nutrient source to aquatic ecosystems. Over time, nutrient accumulation may affect water quality, shift biological communities, and influence ecosystem functioning.
Influence of Invasive Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (E. densa) on Currents and Sediment Transport in a Freshwater Tidal System
Authors: Lacy Jessica R. , Foster‐Martinez Madeline R. , Allen Rachel M. , Drexler Judith Z.
Published: July 2021

We present a field study combining measurements of vegetation density, vegetative drag, and reduction of suspended‐sediment concentration (SSC) within patches of the invasive submerged aquatic plant Egeria densa. Our study was motivated by concern that sediment trapping by E. densa, which has proliferated in the Sacramento–San Joaquin Delta, is impacting marsh accretion and reducing turbidity. In the freshwater tidal Delta, E. densa occupies shallow regions frequently along channel margins. We investigated two sites: Lindsey Slough, a muddy low‐energy backwater, and the lower Mokelumne River, with stronger currents and sandy bed sediments. At the two sites, biomass density, frontal area, and areal density of the submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) were similar. Current attenuation within E. densa exceeded 90% and the vegetative drag coefficient followed , where is stem Reynolds number. The SAV reduced SSC by an average of 18% in Lindsey Slough. At the Mokelumne River the reduction ranged 0%–40%, with greatest trapping when discharge and SSC were elevated. This depletion of SSC decreases the transport of sediment to marshes by the same percentage, as the rising tide must pass through fringing SAV before reaching marshes. Sediment trapping in E. densa in the Delta is limited by low flux through the canopy and low settling velocity of suspended sediment (mostly flocculated mud). Sediment trapping by SAV has the potential to reduce channel SSC, but the magnitude and sign of the effect can vary with local factors including vegetative coverage and the depositional or erosional nature of the setting.
Variations in the Near‐Infrared Spectral Properties of Ferrous Mineral Mixtures With Different Relative Abundances
Authors: Zhang Xunyu , Cloutis Edward
Published: July 2021

In near‐infrared spectral studies, the relationship between the 1‐μm absorption (Band I) center and the band area ratio (BAR, the area ratio of 2–1‐μm absorption features) is useful in compositional and mineralogical analyses of ferrous mineral‐bearing mixtures. Zhang and Cloutis (2020), https://doi.org/10.1029/2020ea001153, investigated various lunar ferrous iron‐bearing rocks and minerals and found that pyroxene‐bearing materials rich in ilmenite (Ilm), plagioclase (Pl), or glass are offset from the lunar olivine‐clinopyroxene‐orthopyroxene (Ol‐Cpx‐Opx) mixing line in the plot of the BAR versus the Band I center. To analyze the variation trends of the spectral properties of these mixtures with different components, this study presents a systematic evaluation of laboratory spectra of terrestrial and synthetic ferrous iron‐bearing mineral mixtures based on published databases. In general, the mixing trends of the Pl‐pyroxene mixtures, the glass‐pyroxene mixtures, and the Ilm‐basalt mixtures are consistent with the findings of Zhang and Cloutis (2020), https://doi.org/10.1029/2020ea001153. Moreover, this study also finds that the BAR of the Pl‐pyroxene mixtures varies nonlinearly with different relative abundances and that the BAR is generally not sensitive to Pl abundances below 60%. For glass‐pyroxene mixtures, the corresponding data points are usually appreciably offset from the Ol‐Cpx‐Opx mixing line at glass abundances above 20%. The BAR of the Ilm‐basalt mixtures increases with increasing Ilm content, mainly due to the weakening of 1‐μm absorption generally being greater than that of 2‐μm absorption.
Stable ≠ Sustainable: Delta Dynamics Versus the Human Need for Stability
Authors: Passalacqua P. , Giosan L. , Goodbred S. , Overeem I.
Published: July 2021

Arising from the non‐uniform dispersal of sediment and water that build deltaic landscapes, morphological change is a fundamental characteristic of river delta behavior. Thus, sustainable deltas require mobility of their channel networks and attendant shifts in landforms. Both behaviors can be misrepresented as degradation, particularly in context of the “stability” that is generally necessitated by human infrastructure and economies. Taking the Ganges‐Brahmaputra‐Meghna Delta as an example, contrary to public perception, this delta system appears to be sustainable at a system scale with high sediment delivery and long‐term net gain in land area. However, many areas of the delta exhibit local dynamics and instability at the scale at which households and communities experience environmental change. Such local landscape “instability” is often cited as evidence that the delta is in decline, whereas much of this change simply reflects the morphodynamics typical of an energetic fluvial‐delta system and do not provide an accurate reflection of overall system health. Here we argue that this disparity between unit‐scale sustainability and local morphodynamic change may be typical of deltaic systems with well‐developed distributary networks and strong spatial gradients in sediment supply and transport energy. Such non‐uniformity and the important connections between network sub‐units (i.e., fluvial, tidal, shelf) suggest that delta risk assessments must integrate local dynamics and sub‐unit connections with unit‐scale behaviors. Structure and dynamics of an integrated deltaic network control the dispersal of water, solids, and solutes to the delta sub‐environment and thus the local to unit‐scale sustainability of the system over time.
America’s Natural Gas Pipeline Routes and Environmental Justice
Authors: Thompson Elizabeth
Published: July 2021

Pipeline infrastructure disproportionately burdens America’s most vulnerable communities.
Investigating Atmospheric Inputs of Dissolved Black Carbon to the Santa Barbara Channel During the Thomas Fire (California, USA)
Authors: Wagner Sasha , Harvey Elizabeth , Baetge Nicholas , McNair Heather , Arrington Eleanor , Stubbins Aron
Published: July 2021

The Thomas Fire ignited on December 4, 2017 and burned for over one month. As the Thomas Fire burned, Santa Ana winds carried a thick plume of smoke and ash over the Santa Barbara Channel. We sought to determine whether the deposition of Thomas Fire ash to the Santa Barbara Channel had a measurable effect on the concentration and stable carbon isotopic composition (δ13C) of dissolved black carbon (DBC) in coastal waters. DBC is the condensed aromatic fraction of thermally altered organic carbon quantified using the benzenepolycarboxylic acid (BPCA) method. DBC δ13C signatures were determined via BPCA‐specific stable carbon isotopic analysis. Surface water DBC concentrations beneath the smoke plume were up to 13% higher than other sampling stations. Via controlled leaching experiments, we found that Thomas Fire ash released a considerable amount of DBC in seawater (1.4 g‐DBC per kg of ash organic carbon), which was further enhanced by photodissolution. By combining in situ and experimental data, we constructed an isotopic mixing model to estimate inputs of ash‐derived DBC to marine surface waters. Although we were able to detect slight elevations in DBC concentrations beneath the smoke plume, the ash‐derived contributions were too small to meaningfully shift the δ13C signature, which resulted in an observed mismatch between modeled and measured DBC δ13C values. Few studies have investigated the immediate impacts of wildfire on coastal biogeochemistry. Therefore, our work provides an important foundation for understanding atmospheric contributions of fire‐derived DBC to coastal margins.
Phosphorylated tau181 in plasma as a potential biomarker for Alzheimer’s disease in adults with Down syndrome
Authors: Lleó Alberto , Zetterberg Henrik , Pegueroles Jordi , Karikari Thomas K. , Carmona-Iragui María , Ashton Nicholas J. , Montal Victor , Barroeta Isabel , Lantero-Rodríguez Juan , Videla Laura , Altuna Miren , Benejam Bessy , Fernandez Susana , Valldeneu Silvia , Garzón Diana , Bejanin Alexandre , Iulita Maria Florencia , Camacho Valle , Medrano-Martorell Santiago , Belbin Olivia , Clarimon Jordi , Lehmann Sylvain , Alcolea Daniel , Blesa Rafael , Blennow Kaj , Fortea Juan
Published: July 2021

Plasma tau phosphorylated at threonine 181 (p-tau181) predicts Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology with high accuracy in the general population. In this study, we investigated plasma p-tau181 as a biomarker of AD in individuals with Down syndrome (DS). We included 366 adults with DS (240 asymptomatic, 43 prodromal AD, 83 AD dementia) and 44 euploid cognitively normal controls. We measured plasma p-tau181 with a Single molecule array (Simoa) assay. We examined the diagnostic performance of p-tau181 for the detection of AD and the relationship with other fluid and imaging biomarkers. Plasma p-tau181 concentration showed an area under the curve of 0.80 [95% CI 0.73–0.87] and 0.92 [95% CI 0.89–0.95] for the discrimination between asymptomatic individuals versus those in the prodromal and dementia groups, respectively. Plasma p-tau181 correlated with atrophy and hypometabolism in temporoparietal regions. Our findings indicate that plasma p-tau181 concentration can be useful to detect AD in DS.
A multi-responsive healable supercapacitor
Authors: Qin Haili , Liu Ping , Chen Chuanrui , Cong Huai-Ping , Yu Shu-Hong
Published: July 2021

Self-healability is essential for supercapacitors to improve their reliability and lifespan when powering the electronics. However, the lack of a universal healing mechanism leads to low capacitive performance and unsatisfactory intelligence. Here, we demonstrate a multi-responsive healable supercapacitor with integrated configuration assembled from magnetic Fe3O4@Au/polyacrylamide (MFP) hydrogel-based electrodes and electrolyte and Ag nanowire films as current collectors. Beside a high mechanical strength, MFP hydrogel exhibits fast optical and magnetic healing properties arising from distinct photothermal and magneto-thermal triggered interfacial reconstructions. By growing electroactive polypyrrole nanoparticles into MFP framework as electrodes, the assembled supercapacitor exhibits triply-responsive healing performance under optical, electrical and magnetic stimuli. Notably, the device delivers a highest areal capacitance of 1264 mF cm−2 among the reported healable supercapacitors and restores ~ 90% of initial capacitances over ten healing cycles. These prominent performance advantages along with the facile device-assembly method make this emerging supercapacitor highly potential in the next-generation electronics.
Extensive standing genetic variation from a small number of founders enables rapid adaptation in Daphnia
Authors: Chaturvedi Anurag , Zhou Jiarui , Raeymaekers Joost A. M. , Czypionka Till , Orsini Luisa , Jackson Craig E. , Spanier Katina I. , Shaw Joseph R. , Colbourne John K. , De Meester Luc
Published: July 2021

We lack a thorough understanding of the origin and maintenance of standing genetic variation that enables rapid evolutionary responses of natural populations. Whole genome sequencing of a resurrected Daphnia population shows that standing genetic variation in over 500 genes follows an evolutionary trajectory that parallels the pronounced and rapid adaptive evolution of multiple traits in response to predator-driven natural selection and its subsequent relaxation. Genetic variation carried by only five founding individuals from the regional genotype pool is shown to suffice at enabling the observed evolution. Our results provide insight on how natural populations can acquire the genomic variation, through colonization by a few regional genotypes, that fuels rapid evolution in response to strong selection pressures. While these evolutionary responses in our study population involved hundreds of genes, we observed no evidence of genetic erosion.
Loss of fragile site-associated tumor suppressor promotes antitumor immunity via macrophage polarization
Authors: Zhang Lijuan , Zhang Kai , Zhang Jieyou , Zhu Jinrong , Xi Qing , Wang Huafeng , Zhang Zimu , Cheng Yingnan , Yang Guangze , Liu Hongkun , Guo Xiangdong , Zhou Dongmei , Xue Zhenyi , Li Yan , Zhang Qi , Da Yurong , Liu Li , Yin Zhinan , Yao Zhi , Zhang Rongxin
Published: July 2021

Common fragile sites (CFSs) are specific breakage-prone genomic regions and are present frequently in cancer cells. The (E2-independent) E3 ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme FATS (fragile site-associated tumor suppressor) has antitumor activity in cancer cells, but the function of FATS in immune cells is unknown. Here, we report a function of FATS in tumor development via regulation of tumor immunity. Fats−/− mice show reduced subcutaneous B16 melanoma and H7 pancreatic tumor growth compared with WT controls. The reduced tumor growth in Fats−/− mice is macrophage dependent and is associated with a phenotypic shift of macrophages within the tumor from tumor-promoting M2-like to antitumor M1-like macrophages. In addition, FATS deficiency promotes M1 polarization by stimulating and prolonging NF-κB activation by disrupting NF-κB/IκBα negative feedback loops and indirectly enhances both CD4+ T helper type 1 (Th1) and cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) adaptive immune responses to promote tumor regression. Notably, transfer of Fats−/− macrophages protects mice against B16 melanoma. Together, these data suggest that FATS functions as an immune regulator and is a potential target in cancer immunotherapy.