bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ALERT-LDL: adherence to guidelines in the treatment of patients with dyslipidemia
Authors: Bosso Giorgio , De Luca Mariarosaria , Alma Giovanni , Carbone Vincenzo , Ferrara Ferdinando , Fimiani Biagio , Guarnaccia Franco , Iandolo Alessandro , Murolo Sabato , Olivares Maurizio , Romeo Emanuele , Santoro Giosuè , Valvano Antonio , Zito Giovanni , Oliviero Ugo
Published: July 2021

The association between LDL-c levels and cardiovascular outcomes suggests tailoring lipid-lowering therapies according to total cardiovascular risk. We aimed to evaluate the adherence to guidelines-oriented dyslipidaemia’s treatment in an outpatient population referring to ARCA cardiologists, and assess the efficacy of treatment’s optimization for each specific level of risk. Three thousand seventy-five patients enrolled in this prospective study were classified according to cardiovascular risk category, and their therapies were optimized. At the beginning and the 3 month follow-up visit, LDL-c data were collected, and further therapies were prescribed to the patients that did not reach the target. A significant LDL-c reduction was observed in all subgroups at different cardiovascular risk at the end of the study (p < 0.05). The number of patients assuming statins, both in monotherapy and in combination with ezetimibe, increased during the follow-up (63% at the enrollment vs 89% after 12 months). At the enrollment, only 1.4% of patients were treated with PCSK-9 inhibitors while after 12 months the percentage increased both in high (5.8%) and very high-risk (18.4%) patients. At the beginning of the study, only 698/3075 patients (22.7%) reached lipid targets. At the end of the study, carried out by the referring cardiologists in the pertaining healthcare districts and specifically aimed to control the lipid profile, the percentage of patients on target increased in all risk categories (68.5%). Our results suggest carefully implementing measures that encourage outpatients and their cardiologists to achieve the targeted lipid profile according to cardiovascular risk.
Al-driven peculiarities of local coordination and magnetic properties in single-phase Alx-CrFeCoNi high-entropy alloys
Authors: Smekhova Alevtina , Kuzmin Alexei , Siemensmeyer Konrad , Luo Chen , Chen Kai , Radu Florin , Weschke Eugen , Reinholz Uwe , Buzanich Ana Guilherme , Yusenko Kirill V.
Published: July 2021

Modern design of superior multi-functional alloys composed of several principal components requires in-depth studies of their local structure for developing desired macroscopic properties. Herein, peculiarities of atomic arrangements on the local scale and electronic states of constituent elements in the single-phase face-centered cubic (fcc)- and body-centered cubic (bcc)-structured high-entropy Alx-CrFeCoNi alloys (x = 0.3 and 3, respectively) are explored by element-specific X-ray absorption spectroscopy in hard and soft X-ray energy ranges. Simulations based on the reverse Monte Carlo approach allow to perform a simultaneous fit of extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectra recorded at K absorption edges of each 3d constituent and to reconstruct the local environment within the first coordination shells of absorbers with high precision. The revealed unimodal and bimodal distributions of all five elements are in agreement with structure-dependent magnetic properties of studied alloys probed by magnetometry. A degree of surface atoms oxidation uncovered by soft X-rays suggests different kinetics of oxide formation for each type of constituents and has to be taken into account. X-ray magnetic circular dichroism technique employed at L2.3 absorption edges of transition metals demonstrates reduced magnetic moments of 3d metal constituents in the sub-surface region of in situ cleaned fcc-structured Al0.3-CrFeCoNi compared to their bulk values. Extended to nanostructured versions of multicomponent alloys, such studies would bring new insights related to effects of high entropy mixing on low dimensions.
Strong coupling methods in QCD thermodynamics
Authors: Philipsen Owe
Published: July 2021

For a long time, strong coupling expansions have not been applied systematically in lattice QCD thermodynamics, in view of the success of numerical Monte Carlo studies. The persistent sign problem at finite baryo-chemical potential, however, has motivated investigations using these methods, either by themselves or combined with numerical evaluations, as a route to finite density physics. This article reviews the strategies, by which a number of qualitative insights have been attained, notably the emergence of the hadron resonance gas or the identification of the onset transition to baryon matter in specific regions of the QCD parameter space. For the simpler case of Yang–Mills theory, the deconfinement transition can be determined quantitatively even in the scaling region, showing possible prospects for continuum physics.
Sexual Health in Spanish People with Intellectual Disability: the Impact of the Lockdown due to COVID-19
Authors: Gil-Llario M. Dolores , Díaz-Rodríguez Irene , Morell-Mengual Vicente , Gil-Juliá Beatriz , Ballester-Arnal Rafael
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The lockdown due to COVID-19 affected the sexual health of the people with intellectual disabilities by differentially modifying the frequency and characteristics of people’s sexual activity depending on whether or not they lived with a partner during this period. The aim of this study was to analyze the extent to which the sexual behavior of people with intellectual disabilities (with and without a partner) was affected during the lockdown.

Methods

The sample consisted of 73 people with intellectual disabilities between 21 and 63 years old (M = 39.63; SD = 10.11). The variables analyzed were the physical, social, and technological environment during the lockdown, sexual appetite, sexual behavior, online sexual activity, and sexual abuse. The data were collected between the months of May and June of 2020.

Results

The lockdown increased the sexual appetite of a third of the sample (38%), especially the youngest participants. Sexual activity focused on autoeroticism and online behavior, particularly sending nude images of oneself (88%) and viewing pornography (83.6%). Rates of sexual abuse during this period were relatively high (6.8%).

Conclusions

The sexual activity of people with ID was important during the lockdown, and they had to adapt to the circumstances of isolation in a similar way to the general population. Technological improvements in terms of devices and connection quality at home allowed their sexual behavior to be reoriented, opening the door to new risks for the sexual health of people with ID.

Policy Implications

Cybersex and the increase in sexual abuse due to confinement are aspects that should be included in programs to improve the sexual health of this group.
Distribution system power quality compensation using a HSeAPF based on SRF and SMC features
Authors: Qashou Akram , Yousef Sufian , Smadi Abdallah A. , AlOmari Amani A.
Published: July 2021

The purpose of this paper is to describe the design of a Hybrid Series Active Power Filter (HSeAPF) system to improve the quality of power on three-phase power distribution grids. The system controls are comprise of Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) based on the Synchronous Reference Frame (SRF) theory, and supported by Phase Locked Loop (PLL) for generating the switching pulses to control a Voltage Source Converter (VSC). The DC link voltage is controlled by Non-Linear Sliding Mode Control (SMC) for faster response and to ensure that it is maintained at a constant value. When this voltage is compared with Proportional Integral (PI), then the improvements made can be shown. The function of HSeAPF control is to eliminate voltage fluctuations, voltage swell/sag, and prevent voltage/current harmonics are produced by both non-linear loads and small inverters connected to the distribution network. A digital Phase Locked Loop that generates frequencies and an oscillating phase-locked output signal controls the voltage. The results from the simulation indicate that the HSeAPF can effectively suppress the dynamic and harmonic reactive power compensation system. Also, the distribution network has a low Total Harmonic Distortion (< 5%), demonstrating that the designed system is efficient, which is an essential requirement when it comes to the IEEE-519 and IEC 61,000–3-6 standards.
Isotopic composition of precipitation and groundwater onshore of the Rio del Rey Basin, southwest Cameroon: local meteoric lines and recharge
Authors: Wotany Engome R. , Wirmvem Mengnjo J. , Fantong Wilson Y. , Ayonghe Samuel N. , Wantim Mabel N. , Ohba Takeshi
Published: July 2021

The link between rainfall and groundwater recharge in the Rio del Rey Basin, which is of socio-economic importance to Cameroon, is poorly understood. Accordingly, the stable isotopes in monthly rainfall from January to December 2012 (in Lobe and Mundemba) and 52 surface water and groundwater samples were investigated. High values of δ18O and δD were recorded in the dry period (February to March), and the least values of δ18O and δD were observed in the wet period (September). This indicates that different condensation processes primarily influenced stable isotopes in rainfall as a function of the difference in moisture sources. The relationship between δD and δ18O defined the Lobe meteoric water line as δD = 7.97 δ18O + 12.48 and Mundemba water line as δD = 7.75 δ18O + 10.79. The similarity of their slopes to the global meteoric line suggests that the isotopic composition of investigated rains was not significantly affected by evaporation during precipitation. The ranges in deuterium-excess of precipitation from 5.8 to 16.56‰ suggest the source of vapour is from the Atlantic Ocean. The groundwater isotope values (ranging from −3.81 to −2.52‰ for δ18O) plotted close to and along the GMWL, showing that its isotopic composition is of meteoric origin under rapid recharge conditions. The isotopic similarity between groundwater and June–August rains suggests a significant recharge during this period.
Alteration effect on petrophysical properties of reservoirs rocks by drilling fluid emulsifiers
Authors: Bazzine Zineb , Dobbi Abdelmadjid , Lebtahi Hamid , Zerrouki Ahmed Ali
Published: July 2021

Surfactants formulated into oil-based mud can adsorb to pore surfaces causing changes in rock wettability, which are widely believed to impair formation permeability when oil-based mud invades the near-wellbore region. In the present study, the effects of oil-based mud with Versawet and Versacoat surfactants, on the petrophysical properties and wettability of drilling cutting samples from sandstone reservoirs were investigated through relative permeability, wettability index, and adsorption measurements at standard conditions in a micromodel device. The X-ray analysis and flame photometer were used to characterize the drilling cuttings samples, and the functional groups of surfactants were identified by the infrared spectroscopy. Relative permeability was studied using the unsteady state method, and the wettability index was measured by the Amott method after the aging with drilling formulation for 24 to 720 h and then the adsorption behavior of surfactants using Langmuir isotherm. The results show that drilling cutting is mainly composed of quartz 71.9%. Surfactant in oil-based mud reduces permeability and causes a change in wettability to a more oil-wet state, and these effects become more pronounced as the contact period with the surfactant increases. The wettability of a reservoir rock was altered due to surfactant adsorption and the formation of a hydrophobic layer on the surface of drilling cutting samples. The adsorption and retention of polar part of the surfactants -NH2for Versawet and -COOH for Versacoat on the silanol groups and the calcium atoms included in the structure of the reservoir rocks. They are the key interactions in the wettability alteration process.
Winding Numbers, Unwinding Numbers, and the Lambert W Function
Authors: Beardon A. F.
Published: July 2021

The unwinding number of a complex number was introduced to process automatic computations involving complex numbers and multi-valued complex functions, and has been successfully applied to computations involving branches of the Lambert W function. In this partly expository note we discuss the unwinding number from a purely topological perspective, and link it to the classical winding number of a curve in the complex plane. We also use the unwinding number to give a representation of the branches $$W_k$$

W
k

of the Lambert W function as a line integral.
Self-diffusion in nanofluids of nonelongated particles in the dilute limit
Authors: Fariñas Alvariño P. , Sáiz Jabardo J. M. , Cabezas-Gómez L.
Published: July 2021

The dynamic features of a dilute suspension of nanoparticles (nanofluid) are fully modified depending on the dominant particles slip mechanism acting in the suspension. Self-diffusion effects in highly sheared diluted suspensions (entrance conditions and microapplications) can lead to a particles distribution fully different from the bulk one. The reported investigation proposes a model to determine the self-diffusion of three-planes symmetric nonelongated particles inmersed in a sheared Stokes flow. The model is based on the real displacements between any pair of particles and an statistical approach to determine contact kinematic irreversibilities. According to the proposed model, the source of hydrodynamic irreversibility is closely related to the particles shape. This is clearly demonstrated through the application of the model to cubic particles. The main conclusion is that the particles shape plays a significant role in the dynamic behavior of the suspension and, as a result, in the self-diffusion coefficient. The reported results arising from the cubic particles trajectories in a Stokes flow are reasonably close to the ones reported by Brady and Morris (J Fluid Mech, 348:103–139, 1997) for suspensions under high Pe number, and Zarraga and Leighton (Phys Fluids 13(3):565-577, 2001).
Lexical Semantic Knowledge of Children with ASD—a Review Study
Authors: Sukenik Nufar , Tuller Laurice
Published: July 2021

Studies on the lexical semantic abilities of children with autism have yielded contradicting results. The aim of the current review was to explore studies that have specifically focused on the lexical semantic abilities of children with ASD and try to find an explanation for these contradictions. In the 32 studies reviewed, no single factor was found to affect lexical semantic skills, although children with broader linguistic impairment generally, but not universally, also showed impaired lexical semantic skills. The need for future studies with young ASD participants, with differing intellectual functioning, longitudinal studies, and studies assessing a wide range of language domains are discussed.
The role of the Sunfrail tool in the screening of frailty and in integrated community-hospital care pathways: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Longobucco Yari , Lauretani Fulvio , Gionti Luciano , Tagliaferri Sara , Gobbens Robbert , Kostka Tomasz , Palummeri Ernesto , Barbolini Mirca , Maggio Marcello
Published: July 2021

Background

One of the most problematic expression of ageing is frailty, and an approach based on its early identification is mandatory. The Sunfrail-tool (ST), a 9-item questionnaire, is a promising instrument for screening frailty.

Aims

To assess the diagnostic accuracy and the construct validity between the ST and a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA), composed by six tests representative of the bio-psycho-social model of frailty;

To verify the discriminating power of five key-questions of the ST;

To investigate the role of the ST in a clinical-pathway of falls’ prevention.

Methods

In this retrospective study, we enrolled 235 patients from the Frailty-Multimorbidity Lab of the University-Hospital of Parma. The STs’ answers were obtained from the patient’s clinical information. A patient was considered frail if at least one of the CGAs’ tests resulted positive.

Results

The ST was associated with the CGA’s judgement with an Area Under the Curve of 0.691 (CI 95%: 0.591–0.791). Each CGA’s test was associated with the ST total score. The five key-question showed a potential discriminating power in the CGA’s tests of the corresponding domains. The fall-related question of the ST was significantly associated with the Short Physical Performance Battery total score (OR: 0.839, CI 95%: 0.766–0.918), a proxy of the risk of falling.

Discussion

The results suggest that the ST can capture the complexity of frailty. The ST showed a good discriminating power, and it can guide a second-level assessment to key frailty domains and/or clinical pathways.

Conclusions

The ST is a valid and easy-to-use instrument for the screening of frailty.
Optimal control and energy storage for DC electric train systems using evolutionary algorithms
Authors: Nallaperuma Sam , Fletcher David , Harrison Robert
Published: July 2021

Electrified railways are becoming a popular transport medium and these consume a large amount of electrical energy. Environmental concerns demand reduction in energy use and peak power demand of railway systems. Furthermore, high transmission losses in DC railway systems make local storage of energy an increasingly attractive option. An optimisation framework based on genetic algorithms is developed to optimise a DC electric rail network in terms of a comprehensive set of decision variables including storage size, charge/discharge power limits, timetable and train driving style/trajectory to maximise benefits of energy storage in reducing railway peak power and energy consumption. Experimental results for the considered real-world networks show a reduction of energy consumption in the range 15%–30% depending on the train driving style, and reduced power peaks.
Dynamic analysis of traction motor in a locomotive considering surface waviness on races of a motor bearing
Authors: Liu Yuqing , Chen Zaigang , Li Wei , Wang Kaiyun
Published: July 2021

The traction motor is the power source of the locomotive. If the surface waviness occurs on the races of the motor bearing, it will cause abnormal vibration and noise, accelerate fatigue and wear, and seriously affect the stability and safety of the traction power transmission. In this paper, an excitation model coupling the time-varying displacement and contact stiffness excitations is adopted to investigate the effect of the surface waviness of the motor bearing on the traction motor under the excitation from the locomotive-track coupled system. The detailed mechanical power transmission path and the internal/external excitations (e.g., wheel–rail interaction, gear mesh, and internal interactions of the rolling bearing) of the locomotive are comprehensively considered to provide accurate dynamic loads for the traction motor. Effects of the wavenumber and amplitude of the surface waviness on the traction motor and its neighbor components of the locomotive are investigated. The results indicate that controlling the amplitude of the waviness and avoiding the wavenumber being an integer multiple of the number of the rollers are helpful for reducing the abnormal vibration and noise of the traction motor.
Engineering Ruthenium-Based Electrocatalysts for Effective Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Yang Yingjie , Yu Yanhui , Li Jing , Chen Qingrong , Du Yanlian , Rao Peng , Li Ruisong , Jia Chunman , Kang Zhenye , Deng Peilin , Shen Yijun , Tian Xinlong
Published: July 2021

The investigation of highly effective, durable, and cost-effective electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a prerequisite for the upcoming hydrogen energy society. To establish a new hydrogen energy system and gradually replace the traditional fossil-based energy, electrochemical water-splitting is considered the most promising, environmentally friendly, and efficient way to produce pure hydrogen. Compared with the commonly used platinum (Pt)-based catalysts, ruthenium (Ru) is expected to be a good alternative because of its similar hydrogen bonding energy, lower water decomposition barrier, and considerably lower price. Analyzing and revealing the HER mechanisms, as well as identifying a rational design of Ru-based HER catalysts with desirable activity and stability is indispensable. In this review, the research progress on HER electrocatalysts and the relevant describing parameters for HER performance are briefly introduced. Moreover, four major strategies to improve the performance of Ru-based electrocatalysts, including electronic effect modulation, support engineering, structure design, and maximum utilization (single atom) are discussed. Finally, the challenges, solutions and prospects are highlighted to prompt the practical applications of Ru-based electrocatalysts for HER.
Optimizing Planting Density and Impact of Panicle Types on Grain Yield and Microclimatic Response Index of Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Yang Guotao , Wang Xuechun , Nabi Farhan , Wang Hongni , Zhao Changkun , Peng Youlin , Ma Jun , Hu Yungao
Published: July 2021

The architecture of rice plant represents important and complex agronomic traits, such as panicles morphology, which directly influence the microclimate of rice population and consequently grain yield. To enhance yield, modification of plant architecture to create new hybrid cultivars is considered a sustainable approach. The current study includes an investigation of yield and microclimate response index under low to high plant density of two indica hybrid rice R498 (curved panicles) and R499 (erect panicles), from 2017 to 2018. The split-plot design included planting densities of 11.9–36.2 plant/m2. The results showed that compared with R498, R499 produced a higher grain yield of 8.02–8.83 t/ha at a higher planting density of 26.5–36.2 plant/m2. The response index of light intensity and relative humidity to the planting density of R499 was higher than that of R498 at the lower position of the rice population. However, the response index of temperature to the planting density of R499 was higher at the upper position (0.2–1.4%) than at the lower position. Compared with R498, R499 at a high planting density developed lower relative humidity (78–88%) and higher light intensity (9900–15,916 lx) at the lower position of the rice population. Our finding suggests that erect panicles are highly related to grain yield microclimatic contributors under a highly dense rice population, such as light intensity utilization, humidity, and temperature. The application of erect panicle rice type provides a potential strategy for yield improvement by increasing microclimatic conditions in rice.
Production of ceramic construction materials as an environmental management solution for sulfidic mine tailings
Authors: Paiva H. , Simões F. , Maljaee H. , Yliniemi J. , Illikainen M. , Ferreira V. M.
Published: July 2021

Mine tailings (MT) waste valorization in construction materials can be one possible solution because they may allow an alternative for some applications as an important contribution for a more circular economy. The aim of this work was to study the feasibility of using a sulfidic mine tailing in the production of building materials such as ceramic roof tiles. The introduction of 5, 10 and 20% MT in ceramic roof tiles promoted an improvement on the final properties of these materials. The use of 20%MT has decreased the firing temperature from 1150º to 1050 ºC, hence promoting energy savings and lower costs. Properties as density and water absorption were improved. Firing shrinkage, many times responsible for cracking, also decrease with the use of MT and, in this way, improve the production rate. The 20% MT ceramic formulation achieved the highest value of strength with lowest firing temperature. For the effects of sulphates' emission (SO2 and SO3 gases) upon firing, a solution was proposed involving their reaction with water and, through condensation, providing afterwards sulphuric acid as a process by-product. The use of high sulphide MT in ceramic roof tiles processing could be viewed as a potential safe waste management solution for these particular mine tailings.
A Yeast BiFC-Seq Method for Genome-Wide Interactome Mapping
Authors: Shang Limin , Zhang Yuehui , Liu Yuchen , Jin Chaozhi , Yuan Yanzhi , Tian Chunyan , Ni Ming , Bo Xiaochen , Zhang Li , Li Dong , He Fuchu , Wang Jian
Published: July 2021

Genome-wide physical protein–protein interaction (PPI) mapping remains a major challenge for current technologies. Here, we reported a high-efficiency BiFC-seq method, yeast-enhanced green fluorescent protein-based bimolecular fluorescence complementation (yEGFP-BiFC) coupled with next-generation DNA sequencing, for interactome mapping. We first applied yEGFP-BiFC method to systematically investigate an intraviral network of the Ebola virus. Two-thirds (9/14) of known interactions of EBOV were recaptured, and five novel interactions were discovered. Next, we used the BiFC-seq method to map the interactome of the tumor protein p53. We identified 97 interactors of p53, more than three-quarters of which were novel. Furthermore, in a more complex background, we screened potential interactors by pooling two BiFC libraries together and revealed a network of 229 interactions among 205 proteins. These results show that BiFC-seq is a highly sensitive, rapid, and economical method for genome-wide interactome mapping.
Resequencing 250 Soybean Accessions: New Insights into Genes Associated with Agronomic Traits and Genetic Networks
Authors: Yang Chunming , Yan Jun , Jiang Shuqin , Li Xia , Min Haowei , Wang Xiangfeng , Hao Dongyun
Published: July 2021

The limited knowledge of genomic diversity and functional genes associated with the traits of soybean varieties has resulted in slow progress in breeding. In this study, we sequenced the genomes of 250 soybean landraces and cultivars from China, America, and Europe, and investigated their population structure, genetic diversity and architecture, and the selective sweep regions of these accessions. Five novel agronomically important genes were identified, and the effects of functional mutations in respective genes were examined. The candidate genes GSTT1, GL3, and GSTL3 associated with the isoflavone content, CKX3 associated with yield traits, and CYP85A2 associated with both architecture and yield traits were found. The phenotype–gene network analysis revealed that hub nodes play a crucial role in complex phenotypic associations. This study describes novel agronomic trait-associated genes and a complex genetic network, providing a valuable resource for future soybean molecular breeding.
Climate Rationality
Authors: Johnston Jason S.
Published: July 2021

Most environmental statutes passed since 1970 have endorsed a pragmatic or 'precautionary' principle under which the existence of a significant risk is enough to trigger regulation. At the same time, targets of such regulation have often argued on grounds of inefficiency that the associated costs outweigh any potential benefits. In this work, Jason Johnston unpacks and critiques the legal, economic, and scientific basis for precautionary climate policies pursued in the United States and in doing so sheds light on why the global warming policy debate has become increasingly bitter and disconnected from both climate science and economics. Johnston analyzes the most influential international climate science assessment organizations, the US electric power industry, and land management and renewable energy policies. Bridging sound economics and climate science, this pathbreaking book shows how the United States can efficiently adapt to a changing climate while radically reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
A History of Canadian Fiction
Authors: Staines David
Published: July 2021

A History of Canadian Fiction is the first one-volume history to chart its development from earliest times to the present day. Recounting the struggles and the glories of this burgeoning area of investigation, it explains Canada's literary growth alongside its remarkable history. Highlighting the people who have shaped and are shaping Canadian literary culture, the book examines such major figures as Mavis Gallant, Mordecai Richler, Alice Munro, Margaret Atwood, Michael Ondaatje, and Thomas King, concluding with young authors of today whose major successes reflect their indebtedness to their Canadian forbearers.
The Science of Children's Religious and Spiritual Development
Authors: Mahoney Annette
Published: July 2021

This Element provides a comprehensive yet concise account of scientific research on children's religious and spiritual (RS) development. After providing a historical sketch of definitional issues in the science of RS, the first section reviews basic descriptive information on children's RS development as well as wholistic theoretical models and measures of children's RS development. The second section covers evidence about links of child and parental RS to children's psychosocial adjustment, and highlights the need for more research that discriminates specific positive and negative manifestations of RS for children's development. The third section summarizes evidence about the robust influence of parents on their children's RS development and parents' perceptions of their role in this process. The fourth section focuses on cognitive-developmental research on children's cognitions about God/deities and prayer. The Element concludes with a synopsis of key themes and challenges that researchers face to advance the science of children's RS development.
Coupling the Rice Convection Model‐Equilibrium to the Lyon‐Fedder‐Mobarry Global Magnetohydrodynamic Model
Authors: Bao Shanshan , Toffoletto Frank , Yang Jian , Sazykin Stanislav , Wiltberger Michael
Published: July 2021

The pursuit of realistic simulation of the physics of plasma transport, ring current formation and storm‐triggered Earth magnetic and electric field is an ongoing challenge in magnetospheric physics. To this end, we have implemented a coupling of the Lyon‐Fedder‐Mobarry (LFM) global magnetohydrodynamic model with the Rice convection model‐equilibrium (RCM‐E) of the inner‐magnetosphere and plasma sheet. This one‐way coupling scheme allows continuous update of the RCM‐E boundary conditions from the plasma moments calculated by the LFM while preserving entropy conservation. This results in a model that has the high‐resolution self‐consistent description of the inner magnetosphere and includes the effects of time‐dependent outer‐magnetospheric electromagnetic fields and plasma configurations. In addition, driving the RCM‐E in this way resolves the issue of having a plasma‐β‐constrained region in the coupled model of LFM‐RCM and expands the RCM‐E simulation region farther out into plasma sheet where the storm‐time plasma transportation takes place. In the ionosphere, the RCM‐E replaces the ionospheric electric field model of LFM with the one used by the RCM. The electric potential produced, along with the realistic ionospheric precipitation patterns shows strong consistency with the transportation patterns in the plasma sheet featured with well‐resolved bubbles and bursty bulk flows. Results from the simulations of an idealized event will be presented and discussed.
A Road Map for Climate Retreat
Authors: Sever Megan
Published: July 2021

Scientists say managed retreat from climate-related dangers has to start now, and they are exploring potential guidelines for response and adaptation.
Climate Litigation Has a Big Evidence Gap
Authors: Cartier Kimberly
Published: July 2021

Climate-related lawsuits don’t often quantitatively link the defendant’s greenhouse gas emissions to the impacts on the plaintiff. Better lines of communication between climate scientists and climate lawyers could help bridge that gap.
Latest Pleistocene–Holocene Incremental Slip Rates of the Wairau Fault: Implications for Long‐Distance and Long‐Term Coordination of Faulting Between North and South Island, New Zealand
Authors: Zinke R. , Dolan J. F. , Rhodes E. J. , Van Dissen R. J. , Hatem A. E. , McGuire C. P. , Brown N. D. , Grenader J. R.
Published: July 2021

We use high‐resolution lidar microtopographic data and luminescence dating to constrain incremental Holocene–latest Pleistocene slip rates for the Wairau fault, a major dextral strike‐slip fault in the Marlborough Fault System, South Island, New Zealand. Our data come from two closely spaced study areas along the structurally simple, central portion of the fault: The well‐known Branch River terrace flight, and a previously undated series of offset risers and channel features several km to the east that we refer to as the Dunbeath site. Field work and mapping using lidar‐derived topography yields revised or novel measurements of nine fault offsets. We date those features using a post‐IR50‐IRSL225 infrared stimulated luminescence dating method, and a stratigraphically informed Bayesian age model. The dated slip history of the Wairau fault is further constrained using newly cataloged offset measurements collected along a ∼35 km stretch of the fault, and available paleoseismic data. Incremental slip rates are precisely computed using a Monte Carlo resampling scheme. Our results provide a nearly earthquake‐by‐earthquake record of incremental slip, with pronounced variations in incremental slip rate spanning multiple millennia and tens of m of slip. These extreme, multi‐millennial variations in fault slip rate have basic implications for earthquake occurrence, plate boundary lithosphere behavior, and probabilistic seismic hazard assessment.
An Eulerian Model for the Transport and Diffusion of Floating Particles Within Regions of Emergent Vegetation
Authors: Shi Wei , Peruzzo Paolo , Defina Andrea
Published: July 2021

Emergent vegetation has a significant impact on floating particle transport and diffusion in open channel flow. The random walk model of a Lagrangian approach has proven more than suitable to describe the rather unpredictable moving trajectory of particles within emergent vegetation. However, compared to the large computational costs of the Lagrangian model, which also requires more input data, a simplified model based on the Eulerian approach can be by far preferable and cost‐effective for rapid first‐order prediction of particle transport and diffusion within vegetated areas. In this study, we developed a one‐dimensional advection‐diffusion model to simulate particle transport processes within vegetated areas, and to explore the impacts of vegetation on particles transport, diffusion and removal. The model parameters, including the probability of a particle colliding with a stem, and the probability of it being temporarily trapped or permanently captured by a stem, as well as the mean retention time that govern the random walk model, are introduced to estimate the mean velocity, diffusion coefficient, removal rate of particles of Eulerian model, distinguishing from the standard advection and diffusion parameters. The validity of the parameters is verified through the stochastic model with a large number of realizations. The comparison between the dispersal kernel as well as the spatio‐temporal distribution of floating particles predicted by Eulerian model and stochastic model is quite satisfactory and suggests that the Eulerian model we proposed is properly described.
Systematic Evaluation of Geometry‐Driven Lateral River‐Groundwater Exchange in Floodplains
Authors: Allgeier Jonas , Martin Simon , Cirpka Olaf A.
Published: July 2021

The widening and narrowing of river‐valley aquifers can cause valley‐scale lateral hyporheic exchange even if the river is straight and its slope is uniform. For the aforementioned system, we derive a semi‐analytical solution describing steady‐state groundwater flow for a simplified two‐dimensional geometry of the aquifer and uniform lateral influx from hillslopes. We use this solution to evaluate the geometry‐driven lateral hyporheic exchange flux between the aquifer and the river. By systematically varying the model parameters, we decipher how this flux and the area of the exchange zone depend on geometric (e.g., minimum and maximum domain width) and hydrogeological parameters (e.g., hydraulic conductivity, ambient hydraulic gradient and lateral influxes). The results suggest pronounced hyporheic flow for cases with distinct widening behavior and small cross‐sectional widths at the floodplain inlet and outlet. Furthermore, we analyze the travel‐time distribution of water flowing through the exchange zone, which approximately follows a beta distribution. We express our findings in terms of simple proxy‐equations that can be used to easily estimate the exchange flux, the area of the exchange zone, and the associated travel‐time distribution for a given geographic/landscape setting.
Identification and characterization of relapse-initiating cells in MLL-rearranged infant ALL by single-cell transcriptomics
Authors: Candelli Tito , Schneider Pauline , Garrido Castro Patricia , Jones Luke A. , Bodewes Eduard , Rockx-Brouwer Dedeke , Pieters Rob , Holstege Frank C. P. , Margaritis Thanasis , Stam Ronald W.
Published: July 2021

Infants with MLL-rearranged infant acute lymphoblastic leukemia (MLL-r iALL) undergo intense therapy to counter a highly aggressive malignancy with survival rates of only 30–40%. The majority of patients initially show therapy response, but in two-thirds of cases the leukemia returns, typically during treatment. The glucocorticoid drug prednisone is established as a major player in the treatment of leukemia and the in vivo response to prednisone monotreatment is currently the best indicator of risk for MLL-r iALL. We used two different single-cell RNA sequencing technologies to analyze the expression of a prednisone-dependent signature, derived from an independent study, in diagnostic bone marrow and peripheral blood biopsies. This allowed us to classify individual leukemic cells as either resistant or sensitive to treatment and show that quantification of these two groups can be used to better predict the occurrence of future relapse in individual patients. This work also sheds light on the nature of the therapy-resistant subpopulation of relapse-initiating cells. Leukemic cells associated with high relapse risk are characterized by basal activation of glucocorticoid response, smaller size, and a quiescent gene expression program with cell stemness properties. These results improve current risk stratification and elucidate leukemic therapy-resistant subpopulations at diagnosis.
SARS-CoV-2 acquisition and immune pathogenesis among school-aged learners in four diverse schools
Authors: Cooper Dan M. , Zulu Michael Z. , Jankeel Allen , Ibraim Izabela Coimbra , Ardo Jessica , Kasper Kirsten , Stephens Diana , Meyer Andria , Stehli Annamarie , Condon Curt , Londoño Mary E. , Schreiber Casey M. , Lopez Nanette V. , Camplain Ricky L. , Weiss Michael , Golden Charles , Radom-Aizik Shlomit , Boden-Albala Bernadette , Chau Clayton , Messaoudi Ilhem , Ulloa Erlinda R.
Published: July 2021

Background

Understanding SARS-CoV-2 infection in children is necessary to reopen schools safely.

Methods

We measured SARS-CoV-2 infection in 320 learners [10.5 ± 2.1 (sd); 7–17 y.o.] at four diverse schools with either remote or on-site learning. Schools A and B served low-income Hispanic learners; school C served many special-needs learners, and all provided predominantly remote instruction. School D served middle- and upper-income learners, with predominantly on-site instruction. Testing occurred in the fall (2020), and 6–8 weeks later during the fall-winter surge (notable for a tenfold increase in COVID-19 cases). Immune responses and mitigation fidelity were also measured.

Results

We found SARS-CoV-2 infections in 17 learners only during the surge. School A (97% remote learners) had the highest infection (10/70, 14.3%, p < 0.01) and IgG positivity rates (13/66, 19.7%). School D (93% on-site learners) had the lowest infection and IgG positivity rates (1/63, 1.6%). Mitigation compliance [physical distancing (mean 87.4%) and face-covering (91.3%)] was remarkably high at all schools. Documented SARS-CoV-2-infected learners had neutralizing antibodies (94.7%), robust IFN-γ + T cell responses, and reduced monocytes.

Conclusions

Schools can implement successful mitigation strategies across a wide range of student diversity. Despite asymptomatic to mild SARS-CoV-2 infection, children generate robust humoral and cellular immune responses.

Impact

Successful COVID-19 mitigation was implemented across a diverse range of schools.

School-associated SARS-CoV-2 infections reflect regional rates rather than remote or on-site learning.

Seropositive school-aged children with asymptomatic to mild SARS-CoV-2 infections generate robust humoral and cellular immunity.
Characterizing hydrogen and tetrel bonds in clusters of CO2with carboxylic acids
Authors: Li Weixing , Melandri Sonia , Evangelisti Luca , Calabrese Camilla , Vigorito Annalisa , Maris Assimo
Published: July 2021

Experimental information on dimers of carboxylic acids with CO2is used to benchmark the reliability of theoretical simulation on nanosize clusters.
Comparison of the heat-treatment effect on carrier dynamics in TiO2 thin films deposited by different methods
Authors: Khan Ramsha , Ali-Löytty Harri , Tukiainen Antti , Tkachenko Nikolai V.
Published: July 2021

Effect of heat-treatment on trap states and charge carrier dynamics in TiO2 thin films.
Ferrocene functionalized graphene: preparation, characterization and application as an efficient catalyst for the thermal decomposition of TKX-50
Authors: Zhang Ming , Zhao Fengqi , Li Hui , Dong Shuai , Yang Yanjing , Hou Xiaoting , An Ting , Jiang Zhoufeng
Published: July 2021

A series of ferrocene functionalized graphene with different molecular structures were fabricated, characterized and used for the thermal decomposition of energetic TKX-50.
Size-resolved characterization of organic aerosol in the North China Plain: new insights from high resolution spectral analysis
Authors: Xu Weiqi , Chen Chun , Qiu Yanmei , Xie Conghui , Chen Yunle , Ma Nan , Xu Wanyun , Fu Pingqing , Wang Zifa , Pan Xiaole , Zhu Jiang , Ng Nga Lee , Sun Yele
Published: July 2021

Size-resolved organic aerosol (OA) analysis elucidated largely different size distributions of primary and secondary OA, and oxidation states between urban and rural sites in different seasons.
A bio-based metal–organic aerogel (MOA) adsorbent for capturing tetracycline from aqueous solution
Authors: Luo Xiaofei , Hu Shuai , Yuan Jingyou , Yang Huan , Shan Shaoyun , Hu Tianding , Zhi Yunfei , Su Hongying , Jiang Lihong
Published: July 2021

In this work, we synthesized a novel bio-based Fe-centered metal–organic aerogel and provided valuable guidance for solving practical TC-related pollution issues.
Cellular repair mechanisms triggered by exposure to silver nanoparticles and ionic silver in embryonic zebrafish cells
Authors: Quevedo Ana C. , Lynch Iseult , Valsami-Jones Eugenia
Published: July 2021

The dynamic interplay between toxicity pathways (oxidative stress, calcium disturbances, genetic damage) caused by nanoparticles and the repair mechanisms of inhibition of cell division and induction of cell death is explored in zebrafish embryo cells.
Selenium-rich royal jelly inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma through PI3K/AKT and VEGF pathways in H22 tumor-bearing mice
Authors: Chi Xuepeng , Liu Zhenguo , Wei Wei , Hu Xiyi , Wang Ying , Wang Hongfang , Xu Baohua
Published: July 2021

RJ and Se-rich RJ could promote tumor cell apoptosis through PI3K/AKT pathway, and prevent neovascularization in tumor tissues through VEGF pathway.
Rutin prevents inflammation-associated colon damage via inhibiting the p38/MAPKAPK2 and PI3K/Akt/GSK3β/NF-κB signalling axes and enhancing splenic Tregs in DSS-induced murine chronic colitis
Authors: Sharma Anamika , Tirpude Narendra Vijay , Kumari Monika , Padwad Yogendra
Published: July 2021

Rutin prevents chronic colitis and maintains intestinal homeostasis.
Sonneratia apetala seed oil attenuates potassium oxonate/hypoxanthine-induced hyperuricemia and renal injury in mice
Authors: Chen Jinfen , Xu Lieqiang , Jiang Linyun , Wu Yulin , Wei Long , Wu Xiaoli , Xiao Shihong , Liu Yuhong , Gao Changjun , Cai Jian , Su Ziren
Published: July 2021

Sonneratia apetala seed oil alleviated hyperuricemia by regulating xanthine oxidase activity and expressions of renal transporters, and mitigated hyperuricemia-induced renal injury by suppressing oxidative stress and inflammation.
Encapsulation of polyprodrugs enables an efficient and controlled release of dexamethasone
Authors: Li Mengyi , Jiang Shuai , Haller Adelina , Wirsching Sebastian , Fichter Michael , Simon Johanna , Wagner Manfred , Mailänder Volker , Gehring Stephan , Crespy Daniel , Landfester Katharina
Published: July 2021

Encapsulation of pH-responsive polyprodrugs in semipermeable nanocontainers enables controlled release of water-soluble low molecular weight drugs under acidic conditions.
2D Z-scheme TiO2/SnS2 heterojunctions with enhanced visible-light photocatalytic performance for refractory contaminants and mechanistic insights
Authors: Gao Juan , Sun Xiaowei , Zheng Lingcheng , He Gang , Wang Yanfen , Li Yang , Liu Yin , Deng Jiale , Liu Mei , Hu Jintao
Published: July 2021

The Z-scheme TiO2/SnS2 nanosheet heterojunctions significantly broaden the visible photoabsorption region and accelerate the separation of e–h pairs, thereby resulting in a higher photocatalytic activity for refractory contaminants.
Band alignment of Zr2CO2/MoS2 heterostructures under an electric field
Authors: Chen Zhangze , Ma Xinguo , Hu Jisong , Wan Fengda , Xu Peng , Wang Guoyu , Wang Mei , Deng Shuiquan , Huang Chuyun
Published: July 2021

Tunable energy bands of Zr2CO2/MoS2 heterostructures by an external electric field.
A smart sensing Zn(ii) coordination polymer based on a new viologen ligand exhibiting photochromic and thermochromic and multiple solid detection properties
Authors: Zhang Heyi , He Fangyuan , Li Xiaonan , Wang Zhihui , Zhang Hong
Published: July 2021

A multi-functional one-dimensional chain coordination polymer synthesized from Zn(ii), m-phthalic acid and a novel viologen ligand.
Structure evolution and energy storage mechanism of Zn3V3O8 spinel in aqueous zinc batteries
Authors: Yi Haocong , Zuo Changjian , Ren Hengyu , Zhao Wenguang , Wang Yuetao , Ding Shouxiang , Li Yang , Qin Runzhi , Zhou Lin , Yao Lu , Li Shunning , Zhao Qinghe , Pan Feng
Published: July 2021

We reveal a “bulk to nano-crystalline” structure evolution in Zn3V3O8 spinel, and a proton and Zn2+ co-intercalation mechanism for energy storage of this nano-crystalline Zn–V–O spinel, which guarantees an excellent electrode performance.
RE-SELEX: restriction enzyme-based evolution of structure-switching aptamer biosensors
Authors: Sanford Aimee A. , Rangel Alexandra E. , Feagin Trevor A. , Lowery Robert G. , Argueta-Gonzalez Hector S. , Heemstra Jennifer M.
Published: July 2021

RE-SELEX is the first homogenous method for in vitro evolution of structure-switching DNA aptamers.
ZnO nanoparticle confined stress amplified all-fiber piezoelectric nanogenerator for self-powered healthcare monitoring
Authors: Mahanty Biswajit , Ghosh Sujoy Kumar , Jana Santanu , Mallick Zinnia , Sarkar Subrata , Mandal Dipankar
Published: July 2021

An all-fiber piezoelectric nanogenerator (A-PNG) for self-powered health-care monitoring has been presented.