bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitivity of river catchments to discharge-controlled dissolved carbon export: a study of eight catchments in southern Patagonia
Authors: Pérez-Rodríguez Marta , Biester Harald
Published: July 2022

Understanding the role of catchment sensitivity to dissolved carbon export to aquatic systems is crucial to predict future changes in carbon fluxes under changing climatic conditions. We present 1-year variations in dissolved organic (DOC) and inorganic carbon (DIC) concentrations and fluxes in eight river catchments differing in size (3–300 km2), morphology (steep to flat), and vegetation cover (grassland, forest and peatland) along a precipitation gradient in southern Patagonia, Chile. The results show large differences between catchments in terms of river DOC (2–47 mg L−1; 1–44 tons km−2 year−1) and DIC (0.1–38 mg L−1; 1–5 tons km−2 year−1) concentrations and fluxes in response to changes in discharge. Small and steep catchments hosting organic rich forest soils and peatlands were the most sensitive and showed the highest and fastest DOC release if evaluated on a per unit area basis. Here, rain events caused a rapid exponential increase in DOC release, while DIC export decreased exponentially. A negative correlation between DOC and DIC reveals the minor importance of DIC production through mineralization of DOC in most catchments. Catchments hosting large peatlands had low sensitivity to discharged controlled DOC release attributed to their high hydrological buffer capacity. Similarly, flat and relatively dry Patagonian steppe catchments have comparatively low sensitivity but have short-term high release of DOC accumulated during dry periods. In conclusion, morphology, rather than catchment size or vegetation cover, was found to show the major influence on sensitivity to DOC release.
Changes in Internalizing Symptoms During the COVID-19 Pandemic in a Transdiagnostic Sample of Youth: Exploring Mediators and Predictors
Authors: Haller Simone P. , Archer Camille , Jeong Annie , Jaffe Allison , Jones Emily L. , Harrewijn Anita , Naim Reut , Linke Julia O. , Stoddard Joel , Brotman Melissa A.
Published: July 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic is a chronically stressful event, particularly for youth. Here, we examine (i) changes in mood and anxiety symtpoms, (ii) pandemic-related stress as a mediator of change in symptoms, and (ii) threat processing biases as a predictor of increased anxiety during the pandemic. A clinically well-characterized sample of 81 youth ages 8–18 years (M = 13.8 years, SD = 2.65; 40.7% female) including youth with affective and/or behavioral psychiatric diagnoses and youth without psychopathology completed pre- and during pandemic assessments of anxiety and depression and COVID-related stress. Forty-six youth also completed a threat processing fMRI task pre-pandemic. Anxiety and depression significantly increased during the pandemic (all ps < 0.05). Significant symptom change was partially mediated by pandemic stress and worries. Increased prefrontal activity in response to neutral faces pre-pandemic was associated with more intense parent-reported anxiety during the pandemic (all Fs(1.95,81.86) > 14.44, ps < 0.001). The present work extends existing knowledge on the mediating role of psychological stress on symptoms of anxiety and depression in youth.
Investigation of tracer gas transport in a new numerical model of lung acini
Authors: Schmidt Christoph , Joppek Christoph , Trinkmann Frederik , Takors Ralf , Cattaneo Giorgio , Port Johannes
Published: July 2022

Obstructive pulmonary diseases are associated with considerable morbidity. For an early diagnosis of these diseases, inert gas washouts can potentially be used. However, the complex interaction between lung anatomy and gas transport mechanisms complicates data analysis. In order to investigate this interaction, a numerical model, based on the finite difference method, consisting of two lung units connected in parallel, was developed to simulate the tracer gas transport within the human acinus. Firstly, the geometries of the units were varied and the diffusion coefficients (D) were kept constant. Secondly, D was changed and the geometry was kept constant. Furthermore, simple monoexponential growth functions were applied to evaluate the simulated data. In 109 of the 112 analyzed curves, monoexponential function matched simulated data with an accuracy of over 90%, potentially representing a suitable numerical tool to predict transport processes in further model extensions. For total flows greater than 5 × 10−4 ml/s, the exponential growth constants increased linearly with linear increasing flow to an accuracy of over 95%. The slopes of these linear trend lines of 1.23 µl−1 (D = 0.6 cm2/s), 1.69 µl−1 (D = 0.3 cm2/s), and 2.25 µl−1 (D = 0.1 cm2/s) indicated that gases with low D are more sensitive to changes in flows than gases with high D.

Graphical abstract
Reforming China’s fertilizer policies: implications for nitrogen pollution reduction and food security
Authors: Wang Xiaoxi , Xu Meng , Lin Bin , Bodirsky Benjamin Leon , Xuan Jiaqi , Dietrich Jan Philipp , Stevanović Miodrag , Bai Zhaohai , Ma Lin , Jin Shuqin , Fan Shenggen , Lotze-Campen Hermann , Popp Alexander
Published: July 2022

Reactive nitrogen (N) is a requisite nutrient for agricultural production, but results in greenhouse gas and air and water pollution. The environmental and economic impacts of N fertilizer use in China are particularly relevant, as China consumes the largest amount of N fertilizer in the world to meet its soaring food demand. Here, we use an agro-economic land system model (MAgPIE) in combination with a difference-in-differences econometric model to provide a forward-looking assessment of China’s fertilizer policies in terms of removing fertilizer manufacturing subsidies and implementing measures to improve agricultural nutrient management efficiency. Our model results indicate that enhancing soil N uptake efficiency and manure recycled to soil alongside fertilizer subsidy removal can largely reduce N fertilizer use and N losses and abate N pollution in the short and long term, while food security remains largely unaffected. Enhancing soil N uptake efficiency appears to be decisive to achieving China’s national strategic target of zero growth in N fertilizer use. This study also finds that improving agricultural nutrient management efficiency contributes to higher land productivity and less cropland expansion, with substantial benefits for the environment and food security.
Properties of Bounded Holomorphic Functions: A Survey
Authors: Jarnicki Marek , Pflug Peter
Published: July 2022

We discuss interrelations between $$\mathcal {H}^\infty $$

H

∞

-convex domains and $$\mathcal {H}^\infty $$

H

∞

-domains of holomorphy for various classes of domains in $$\mathbb {C}^{n}$$

C

n

.
Boosting the antimicrobial performance based on new fused spirothiazolidine framework analogs
Authors: El-Sofany Walaa I. , Flefel Eman M. , Darwesh Osama M. , El-Shahat Mahmoud
Published: July 2022

New spiro[cyclohexane-1,2'-thiazolo[4,5-b]pyridine derivatives (3–23) were investigated. Then there is in vitro antimicrobial potency against possible organisms Staphylococcus aurous ATCC-47,077, Bacillus cereus ATCC-12228, Escherichia coli ATCC-25922, Salmonella typhiATCC-15566, and Candida albicans ATCC-10231 were tested utilizing commercially available antibiotics ampicillin as a reference drug. A preliminary antimicrobial test represented that derivatives: (Aldoses) 3'-(4-fluorophenyl)-5'-(methyleneamino)-7'-(p-tolyl)-3'H-spiro[cyclohexane-1,2'-thiazolo[4,5-b]pyridine]-6'-carbonitrile (16–19) and (Acetyl aldoses) 3'-(4-fluorophenyl)-5'-(methyleneamino)-7'-(p-tolyl)-3'H-spiro [cyclohexane-1,2'-thiazolo[4,5-b]pyridine]-6'-carbonitrile (20–23) exhibited higher antifungal, and antibacterial performance with minimum inhibitory concentrations values of (39–67 µg/ml) toward all pathogenic strains compared to common reference drug ampicillin.
Atmospheric Emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds from a Mine Soil Treated with Sewage Sludge and Tomato Plants (Lycopersicum esculentum L.)
Authors: Fernández-Espinosa Antonio José , Peña-Heras Aránzazu , Rossini-Oliva Sabina
Published: July 2022

The study investigated the emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from a mining soil amended with sewage sludge and irrigated with wastewater with or without tomato plants. The aim is to find out whether amendment and irrigation change VOC emissions from the soil and whether tomato changes emissions compared to uncultivated soil. Soil and plant experiments were done in assembled pots. All pots were placed inside a closed glass chamber inside an isolated and windowless room. Experiments with soil without plants were done independently from experiments with soil and plants. An aspirating pump coupled with Tenax adsorbent tubes was used for sampling of VOCs emitted from pots. Volatile organic compounds trapped in the tubes were quantified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry detection. The study detected a total of nine VOCs emitted from the polluted soil: benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, p-xylene, m-xylene, o-xylene, styrene, benzene-1,2,4-trimethyl and tetrachloroethylene, among which the most abundant were toluene, m-xylene and styrene. Differences between pots with or without amendments (C and A-pots) showed a general tendency to a decline of VOCs emissions in the mining soil amended with sewage sludge. Plants contributed to increase significantly the emissions of all VOCs in both A and C-pots. The soil amended with sewage sludge reduced the emission of VOCs: styrene in pots without plants and benzene and xylenes in pots with plants. Tomato plants contributed to increase significantly the emissions of all VOCs except styrene in both amended and non-amended soils.
Nutritional Considerations in High Performance Youth Soccer: A Systematic Review
Authors: North Matthew , Kelly Adam L. , Ranchordas Mayur K. , Cole Matthew
Published: July 2022

Purpose

As players in high performance youth soccer (HYPS) environments undergo large changes in growth and maturation throughout the course of their development, they require specific nutritional intakes if they are to meet these demands. The purpose of this review was to synthesise current nutritional research conducted within HYPS players.

Methods

A systematic approach, following PRISMA guidelines, was employed to capture all articles related to nutrition within HPYS using the databases MEDLINE and SPORTDiscus. Study quality and risk of bias were assessed using a Downs and Black instrument. Observational and intervention studies which investigated an element of nutritional status, knowledge, or intervention in academy aged players (U9 to U23s) within HPYS settings were included.

Results

Fifty-three articles qualified assessing: current nutritional intake and energy balance (n = 21); ergogenic aids/supplements (n = 13); hydration status (n = 6); the influence of Ramadan fasting (n = 4); Vitamin D status (n = 4); female HPYS players (n = 3); nutrition knowledge (n = 2). Outcomes demonstrate a large proportion of HPYS players exhibit insufficient energy and carbohydrate intake, and a lack sufficient periodisation of nutrition to account for varying training/match loads. Large variability in energy intake and expenditure exists between and within chronological age groups, indicating the potential impact on growth and maturation. Female HPYS data is lacking but indicates similar trends to male counterparts.

Conclusion

HYPS players do not currently meet their energy requirements however the impact of growth and maturation is not fully understood. Furthermore, within this demographic future research is required into the barriers and enablers of players achieving adequate energy intake.
Risk factors predicting the development of a pancreatic fistula following pancreaticoduodenectomy: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hassan Ramy A. , Zidan Ahmed , Jabir Murad A. , Abdelshafy Mohamed , Abdallah Mariam , Taha Ahmed M.I.
Published: July 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

A postoperative pancreatic fistula (POPF) following pancreaticoduodenectomy is considered a life-threatening complication. This study was designed to analyze the risk factors for the development of a POPF in a tertiary care center (Al-Rajhi Liver Hospital/Assiut University).

Patients and methods:

We retrospectively analyzed 96 patients who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy at our hospital from January 2017 to December 2020. A pancreatic fistula was defined according to the 2016 update of the International Study Group of Pancreatic Fistula. The risk factors for a pancreatic fistula were analyzed via a univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results:

A clinically relevant pancreatic fistula was detected in 26/96 patients (27.1%) who underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy. The perioperative mortality rate was 8.3% (8/96 patients). Univariate analysis showed a significant association between the incidence of a POPF and the following factors: body mass index (BMI) (<28 vs. >28: 12% vs. 43.5%, respectively, p = 0.014), pancreatic consistency (firm vs. soft: 16.7% vs. 44.4%, respectively, p = 0.036), pancreatic duct diameter (>3 mm vs. <3 mm: 12.5% vs. 56.3%, respectively, p = 0.001), and drain amylase level POD 3 (p = 0.000). Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified BMI (p = 0.020), pancreatic consistency (p = 0.042), pancreatic duct diameter (p = 0.003), and drain amylase level (p = 0.003) as significant independent factors for a POPF. Using a ROC curve, the drain amylase level at POD 3 had the best sensitivity (92.3%) and specificity (82.9%) when using a cutoff value of 644 IU.

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrated that a BMI of >28, soft pancreatic texture, small pancreatic duct diameter of ≤3 mm, and drain amylase level at POD 3 (cutoff point = 644 IU) were the most significant risk factors for the development of a POPF following pancreaticoduodenectomy.

Highlights
Increased mass loss of glaciers in Volcán Domuyo (Argentinian Andes) between 1962 and 2020, revealed by aerial photos and satellite stereo imagery
Authors: Falaschi Daniel , Berthier Etienne , Belart Joaquín M. C. , Bravo Claudio , Castro Mariano , Durand Marcelo , Villalba Ricardo
Published: July 2022

We present geodetic mass-balance estimates for ten glaciers (22.6 ± 1.1 km2) around Volcán Domuyo between 1962 and 2020 (and 46 glaciers covering 29 ± 1.5 km2 between 1984 and 2020), derived from airborne, ASTER and Pléiades imagery. Overall, we find a slightly negative mass balance (−0.15 ± 0.09 m w.e. a–1) for the entire 1962–2020 time span. A closer inspection of sub-periods reveals, however, an increasingly negative mass balance with time. The Domuyo glaciers shifted from a moderately positive mass balance of +0.28 ± 0.13 m w.e. a–1 between 1962 and 1984, to a strongly negative mass balance of −0.99 ± 0.19 m w.e. a–1 between 2012 and 2020. An increase in summer temperatures and a decrease in winter precipitation during the last four decades are likely drivers of the observed glacier changes. We support this finding by implementing a minimal glacier model, relying solely on monthly precipitation and air temperatures. The mass-balance evolution detected in Volcán Domuyo is consistent with other sites spread across the Central Andes, suggesting rapidly increasing glacier wastage impacts are occurring at a geographically wider scale.
Grinding and crushing techniques in Africa Proconsularis
Authors: Souissi Skander
Published: July 2022

This article addresses the lack of literature on grinding and crushing techniques and its equipment in Africa Proconsularis. A new typology is presented, along with their geographical distribution. The types of stones used are also discussed, in relation to provenance, suitability and technological innovations. The conclusion questions what we know and what future research needs to address.
Mustis revisited: unpublished inscriptions from the Parisian archives
Authors: España-Chamorro Sergio
Published: July 2022

Abstract English

The Roman town of Mustis (municipium Iulium Aurelium Mustitanum) is near present-day Mest Henshir (Tunisia). Its epigraphic corpus has around 200 inscriptions mainly published at the end of the 19th century and the beginning of the 20th century, when the French archaeological campaigns took place. However, a group of Latin inscriptions discovered during the 1960s remained unpublished. In the reorganisation of the archives of the Institut National d'Histoire de l'Art (Paris) the original photographs, negatives, slides and documents revealed new data. In this article I present five new inscriptions (three votive texts, a quadruple funerary epitaph and a new boundary stone) and new data and photographs of three already known inscriptions published by G. Wilmanns in theCIL. All these texts reveal new data about the territory of theres publica Mustitana, the sacred life of the city (including the confirmation of a Capitol) and new onomastic information about its inhabitants.
l-Citrulline prevents heat-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and cell injury through nitric oxide-mediated Drp1 inhibition in mouse C2C12 myoblasts
Authors: Yu Tianzheng , Park Yu Min , Wang Li , Deuster Patricia A.
Published: July 2022

Severe heat exposure causes mitochondrial fragmentation and dysfunction, which contribute to the pathogenesis of heat-related illness. l-Citrulline is a naturally occurring amino acid and has been suggested to influence heat shock responses. This study aimed to test whether l-citrulline supplementation would preserve mitochondrial integrity and attenuate heat-induced skeletal muscle injury and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. At 37°C, l-citrulline (2 mM) increased mitochondrial elongation in mouse C2C12 myoblasts, a process associated with a reduction in mitochondrial fission protein Drp1 levels. Mechanistic studies revealed that l-citrulline increased cellular nitric oxide (NO) levels, but not S-nitrosylation of Drp1. l-Citrulline caused a decrease in phosphorylation of Drp1 at Ser 616 and an increase in phosphorylation of Drp1 at Ser 637, which resulted in a reduced mitochondrial localisation of Drp1. L-NAME, a non-selective NO synthase inhibitor, abolished the increase in l-citrulline-induced NO levels and inhibited Drp1 phosphorylation changes and mitochondrial elongation, which indicates the involvement of a NO-dependent pathway. Under 43°C heat stress conditions, l-citrulline prevented translocation of Drp1 to mitochondria, mitochondrial fragmentation and decreased membrane potential. Finally, l-citrulline pretreatment inhibited heat-induced reactive oxygen species overproduction, caspase 3/7 activation, apoptotic cell death and improved cell viability. NO inhibitor l-NAME abolished all the above protective effects of l-citrulline under heat stress. Our results suggest that l-citrulline prevents heat-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and cell injury through NO-mediated Drp1 inhibition in C2C12 myoblasts. l-Citrulline may be an effective treatment for heat-related illnesses and other mitochondrial diseases.
Association between hyperhomocysteinaemia and the risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality among adults in the USA
Authors: Zhao Wenyan , Lin Yan , He Huibo , Ma Honglei , Yang Wei , Hu Qian , Chen Xi , Gao Faliang
Published: July 2022

Hyperhomocysteinaemia (HHcy) is associated with all-cause mortality in some disease states. However, the correlation between HHcy and the risk of mortality in the general population has rarely been researched. We aimed to evaluate the association between HHcy and all-cause and cause-specific mortality among adults in the USA. This study analysed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database (1999–2002 survey cycle). A multivariable Cox regression model was built to evaluate the correlation between HHcy and all-cause and cause-specific mortality. Smooth curve fitting was used to analyse their dose-dependent relationship. A total of 8442 adults aged 18–70 years were included in this study. After a median follow-up period of 14·7 years, 1007 (11·9 %) deaths occurred including 197 CVD-related deaths, 255 cancer-related deaths and fifty-eight respiratory disease deaths. The participants with HHcy had a 93 % increased risk of all-cause mortality (hazard ratio (HR) 1·93; 95 % CI (1·48, 2·51)), 160 % increased risk of CVD mortality (HR 2·60; 95 % CI (1·52, 4·45)) and 82 % increased risk of cancer mortality (HR 1·82; 95 % CI (1·03, 3·21)) compared with those without HHcy. For unmeasured confounding, E-value analysis proved to be robust. In conclusion, HHcy was associated with high risk of all-cause and cause-specific (CVD, cancer) mortality among adults aged below 70 years.
Predictors of olfactory improvement after endoscopic sinus surgery in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Hernandez A K , Wendler O , Mayr S , Iro H , Hummel T , Mueller S K
Published: July 2022

Objective

This study aimed to determine the predictors of olfactory improvement after endoscopic sinus surgery among patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps.

Method

This prospective cohort study included patients admitted to a university hospital between 2006 and 2012. Assessment using odour identification testing, a sinonasal symptom questionnaire, the Rhinosinusitis Disability Index and mucus biomarker levels was performed at various time points. Correlation of variables with identification score differences at six post-operative time points and at baseline was performed, followed by multiple linear regression to determine significant predictors at each of the six post-operative time points.

Results

Baseline absence of acute sinusitis, elevated serpin F2 and anterior rhinorrhoea predict early olfactory improvement, whereas baseline allergic rhinitis predicts late olfactory improvement. Baseline odour identification score was the strongest predictor across all time points.

Conclusion

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and nasal polyps with worse disease or baseline olfactory function may benefit more from endoscopic sinus surgery in terms of olfactory improvement.
Density jump as a function of magnetic field for switch-on collisionless shocks in pair plasmas
Authors: Bret Antoine , Narayan Ramesh
Published: July 2022

The properties of collisionless shocks, like the density jump, are usually derived from magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), where isotropic pressures are assumed. Yet, in a collisionless plasma, an external magnetic field can sustain a stable anisotropy. We have already devised a model for the kinetic history of the plasma through the shock front (J. Plasma Phys., vol. 84, issue 6, 2018, 905840604), allowing to self-consistently compute the downstream anisotropy, and hence the density jump, in terms of the upstream parameters. This model deals with the case of a parallel shock, where the magnetic field is normal to the front both in the upstream and the downstream. Yet, MHD also allows for shock solutions, the so-called switch-on solutions, where the field is normal to the front only in the upstream. This article consists in applying our model to these switch-on shocks. While MHD offers only one switch-on solution within a limited range of Alfvén Mach numbers, our model offers two kinds of solutions within a slightly different range of Alfvén Mach numbers. These two solutions are most likely the outcome of the intermediate and fast MHD shocks under our model. While the intermediate and fast shocks merge in MHD for the parallel case, they do not within our model. For simplicity, the formalism is restricted to non-relativistic shocks in pair plasmas where the upstream is cold.
The limits of control: corporate ownership and control of German joint-stock firms, 1869–1945
Authors: Lehmann-Hasemeyer Sibylle , Neumayer Andreas
Published: July 2022

We study the social structure of ownership of German joint-stock firms covering the period 1869 to 1945 based on a random sample of attendance lists of general meetings. We confirm previous research findings based on smaller samples that despite several changes in the economic and political environment, the majority of shares of the attendees of the general meetings remained firmly in the hands of a few male and mostly inside investors. Moreover, we closely investigate the socio-economic characteristics of the shareholders. We do occasionally find investors from lower social classes and women, but their share of votes was negligible. Adding to the discussion of whether banks strongly monitored and controlled German industrial firms, we aim to track their impact at the meetings. In about 30 per cent of the meetings, a banker or bank was the most influential shareholder and in more than 50 per cent of the meetings a banker or bank was among the three largest shareholders, remarkably without necessarily owning the shares themselves. Although we cannot evaluate whether the banks used this power to pursue their targets, they certainly were in a position to do so.
Clinical and psychosocial factors affecting treatment adherence in children with rheumatic heart disease
Authors: Alkan Fatos , Yigit Ecem , Sapmaz Sermin Yalın , Coskun Senol
Published: July 2022

Introduction:

The present study aimed to investigate the outcomes of psychiatric symptoms and family functions on treatment adherence in children, in addition to sociodemographic characteristics and clinical factors related to the disease.

Material and Method:

The research sample consisted of 43 children who were followed up with rheumatic heart disease diagnosis during the study. Clinical features were obtained from the patient files. The family assessment device evaluating family functioning and the strengths and difficulties questionnaire scale to screen emotional and behavioural problems in children were used.

Results:

Considering the regularity of treatment in our patients, there were 31 (72%) patients adherent to secondary prophylaxis regularly, 7 (6.9%) patients were partially adherent, and 5 (11.6%) patients non-adherent. Patients were divided into treatment adherent (Group 1) and non-adherent (Group 2). There was no statistically significant impact on treatment adherence whether the patients receive enough information, lifestyle, fear of developing adverse effects, fear of addiction, lack of health insurance, difficulties in reaching the drug or hospital. However, the fear of syringes on treatment adherence had an effect statistically significantly (p = 0.047). Forgetting to get a prescription and/or take the drug when the time comes was statistically higher in the non-adherent group (p = 0.009). There was no statistically significant effect of psychosocial factors on treatment adherence between groups.

Discussion:

Providing an effective active recall system, involving primary care workers, providing training on the disease and its management, and a comprehensive pain management programme can improve the process, especially for cases where secondary prophylaxis is missed.
Dissolved Organic Carbon Chemostasis in Antarctic Polar Desert Streams
Authors: Torrens Christa L. , Gooseff Michael N. , McKnight Diane M.
Published: July 2022

Dissolved organic carbon (DOC) is a key variable impacting stream biogeochemical processes. The relationship between DOC concentration (C) and stream discharge (q) can elucidate spatial and temporal DOC source dynamics in watersheds. In the ephemeral glacial meltwater streams of the McMurdo Dry Valleys (MDV), Antarctica, the C‐q relationship has been applied to dissolved inorganic nitrogen and weathering solutes including silica, which all exhibit chemostatic C‐q behavior; but DOC‐q dynamics have not been studied. DOC concentrations here are low compared to temperate streams, in the range of 0.1–2 mg C l−1, and their chemical signal clearly indicates derivation from microbial biomass (benthic mats and hyporheic biofilm). To investigate whether the DOC generation rate from these autochthonous organic matter pools was sufficient to maintain chemostasis for DOC, despite these streams' large diel and interannual fluctuations in discharge, we fit the long‐term DOC‐q data to a power law and an advection‐reaction model. Model outputs and coefficients of variation characterize the DOC‐q relationship as chemostatic for several MDV streams. We propose a conceptual model in which hyporheic carbon storage, hyporheic exchange rates, and net DOC generation rates are key interacting components that enable chemostatic DOC‐q behavior in MDV streams. This model clarifies the role of autochthonous carbon stores in maintaining DOC chemostasis and may be useful for examining these relationships in temperate systems, which typically have larger sources of bioavailable autochthonous organic carbon than MDV streams but where this autochthonous signal could be masked by a stronger allochthonous contribution.
High Schoolers Measure Earth’s Magnetism from Space
Authors: Rodrigues Meghie
Published: July 2022

The experiment was one of the winning projects of the Astro Pi Challenge, in which hundreds of young scientists analyzed data collected from the International Space Station.
Decoupled Lithospheric Folding, Lower Crustal Flow Channels, and the Growth of Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Shin Young Hong , Shum C. K. , Braitenberg Carla , Lee Sang Mook , Lim Mutaek , Na Sung‐Ho , Dai Chunli , Zhang Chaoyang , Pan Yuanjin , Do Seok‐Hyeon , So Byung‐Dal
Published: July 2022

The growth mechanism of the Tibetan Plateau, postulated by a number of hypotheses, remains under intense debate. Our analysis of recent satellite‐based gravity model reveals that Tibetan lithosphere has been decoupled and folded. It is further evidenced by the existence of crustal melts and channel flow that have been observed by seismic and magnetotelluric explorations. Based on 3D geodynamic simulations, we elucidate the exact buckling structures in the upper crust and lithospheric mantle: at mixed wavelengths between ∼240 and ∼400 km, the lower crustal viscosity is smaller than ∼1019 Pa·s, implicating weak lower crustal flow beneath the Plateau. This mixed wavelength is consistent with the result of our inverse gravity modeling. Our results facilitate a new plausible hypothesis that the decoupled lithospheric folding mechanism can explain the growth mechanism of the anomalously thick and wide Tibetan Plateau by conflating our idea and contemporary hypothesized scientific findings.
Tropospheric Delay Correction of VLBI Stations for the Real‐Time Trajectory Determination of the Chang'E‐5 Spacecraft
Authors: Zhou W. L. , Song S. L. , Hu X. , Zhang Z. B. , Li P. J. , Jiang J. , Li W. , Jin X. L. , Jiao G. Q.
Published: July 2022

The Chang'E‐5 (CE‐5) spacecraft was launched on 24 November 2020 with the purpose to implement unmanned lunar surface sampling and return. Very long baseline interferometry (VLBI) technique played an important role in real‐time precise trajectory determination and attitude determination of the CE‐5 spacecraft in the Earth to Moon transfer, circumlunar, landing, and ascending phases. However, tropospheric delay is one of the main error sources for VLBI observations which has to be corrected accurately for precise trajectory determination. To deal with this error properly, a prediction model (TRO_P) and a method with Global Navigation Satellite System observations (TRO_G) are proposed for tropospheric zenith delay correction for real‐time and 30 min latency trajectory determination of the CE‐5 spacecraft, respectively. The results demonstrate that the mean root mean square (RMS) of residual error of VLBI delay and delay rate for TRO_P are 0.62 ns and 0.75 ps/s at low elevation angle, respectively. Moreover, the improvement for the mean RMS of VLBI delay using TRO_G is 39.5% meaning from 0.43 to 0.26 ns compared with that using the method with meteorological data (TRO_S) at low elevation angle. This study can provide a reference for tropospheric delay calibration for trajectory determination of the spacecraft using VLBI or other techniques.
Trends in insulin resistance: insights into mechanisms and therapeutic strategy
Authors: Li Mengwei , Chi Xiaowei , Wang Ying , Setrerrahmane Sarra , Xie Wenwei , Xu Hanmei
Published: July 2022

The centenary of insulin discovery represents an important opportunity to transform diabetes from a fatal diagnosis into a medically manageable chronic condition. Insulin is a key peptide hormone and mediates the systemic glucose metabolism in different tissues. Insulin resistance (IR) is a disordered biological response for insulin stimulation through the disruption of different molecular pathways in target tissues. Acquired conditions and genetic factors have been implicated in IR. Recent genetic and biochemical studies suggest that the dysregulated metabolic mediators released by adipose tissue including adipokines, cytokines, chemokines, excess lipids and toxic lipid metabolites promote IR in other tissues. IR is associated with several groups of abnormal syndromes that include obesity, diabetes, metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), cardiovascular disease, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and other abnormalities. Although no medication is specifically approved to treat IR, we summarized the lifestyle changes and pharmacological medications that have been used as efficient intervention to improve insulin sensitivity. Ultimately, the systematic discussion of complex mechanism will help to identify potential new targets and treat the closely associated metabolic syndrome of IR.
Estimating plant–insect interactions under climate change with limited data
Authors: Tamura Yui , Osawa Takeshi , Tabuchi Ken , Yamasaki Kazuhisa , Niiyama Tokumitsu , Sudo Shigeto , Ishigooka Yasushi , Yoshioka Akira , Takada Mayura B.
Published: July 2022

Climate change may disrupt species–species interactions via phenological changes in one or both species. To predict and evaluate the influence of climate change on these interactions, long-term monitoring and sampling over large spatial areas are required; however, funding and labor constraints limit data collection. In this study, we predict and evaluate the plant–insect interactions with limited data sets. We examined plant–insect interaction using observational data for development of the crop plant rice (Oryza sativa) and an effective accumulated temperature (EAT) model of two mirid bugs (Stenotus rubrovittatus and Trigonotylus caelestialium). We combined 11 years of records monitoring rice phenology and the predicted phenology of mirid bugs using spatially–explicit EAT models based on both spatially and temporally high resolutions temperature data sets, then evaluated their accuracy using actual pest damage records. Our results showed that the predicted interactions between rice and mirid bugs explained rice damage to some degree. Our approach may apply predicting changes to plant–insect interactions under climate change. As such, combining plant monitoring records and theoretical predictions of insect phenology may be effective for predicting species–species interactions when available data are limited.
Deep learning in veterinary medicine, an approach based on CNN to detect pulmonary abnormalities from lateral thoracic radiographs in cats
Authors: Dumortier Léo , Guépin Florent , Delignette-Muller Marie-Laure , Boulocher Caroline , Grenier Thomas
Published: July 2022

Thoracic radiograph (TR) is a complementary exam widely used in small animal medicine which requires a sharp analysis to take full advantage of Radiographic Pulmonary Pattern (RPP). Although promising advances have been made in deep learning for veterinary imaging, the development of a Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) to detect specifically RPP from feline TR images has not been investigated. Here, a CNN based on ResNet50V2 and pre-trained on ImageNet is first fine-tuned on human Chest X-rays and then fine-tuned again on 500 annotated TR images from the veterinary campus of VetAgro Sup (Lyon, France). The impact of manual segmentation of TR’s intrathoracic area and enhancing contrast method on the CNN’s performances has been compared. To improve classification performances, 200 networks were trained on random shuffles of training set and validation set. A voting approach over these 200 networks trained on segmented TR images produced the best classification performances and achieved mean Accuracy, F1-Score, Specificity, Positive Predictive Value and Sensitivity of 82%, 85%, 75%, 81% and 88% respectively on the test set. Finally, the classification schemes were discussed in the light of an ensemble method of class activation maps and confirmed that the proposed approach is helpful for veterinarians.
Evaluation of late arterial acquisition and image quality after gadoxetate disodium injection using the CDT-VIBE sequence
Authors: Liu Fen , Ma Feng , Zhou Guanlan , Yang Chongtu , Xiong Bin
Published: July 2022

To explore the applicability of multi-arterial phase imaging technique in gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MRI. We studied 140 consecutive patients with suspected liver lesions who underwent gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MRI before surgery. All patients were randomized into three groups: group A (n = 50) was examined with VIBE-based single-artery phase imaging, group B (n = 44) with StarVIBE, and group C (n = 46) with CAIPIRINHA-Dixon-TWIST-VIBE (CDT-VIBE)-based multi-artery phase imaging. We evaluated the display rate of late arterial images and image quality in arterial phase images. We performed a study of 140 consecutive patients suspected with liver lesions who received gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MRI examination before surgery. All patients were randomly divided into three groups: group A (n = 50) was examined with single arterial phase imaging based on VIBE, group B (n = 44) was based on StarVIBE and group C (n = 46) was analyzed with multi-arterial phase imaging based on CAIPIRINHA-Dixon-TWIST-VIBE (CDT-VIBE). We evaluated the display rate of late arterial images and the image quality of dynamically enhanced images. Both radiologists had an almost perfect agreement (Kappa value > 0.8) in the assessment of late arterial and image quality. For late arterial acquisition, group C was superior to groups A and B (x2 = 18.940, P < 0.05); The image of phase 4 had the highest display rate in the late artery phase. For arterial phase image quality, there was no difference between groups A, B and C at five phases (H = 10.481, P = 0.106); and the best image quality score was lower in group C than in groups A and B (H = 8.573, P = 0.014).For the quality of the late arterial images, there was a statistical difference between the best images in groups A, B and C (H = 6.619, P = 0.037), and the images in group C were significantly better than those in group A (P.adj < 0.05). By applying multi-arterial phase acquisition based on CDT-VIBE, gadoxetate disodium-enhanced MRI scanning can obtain a better late arterial phase and provide high-quality images with fewer motion artifacts.
A structural homology approach to identify potential cross-reactive antibody responses following SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: McGill Joseph R. , Lagassé H. A. Daniel , Hernandez Nancy , Hopkins Louis , Jankowski Wojciech , McCormick Quinn , Simhadri Vijaya , Golding Basil , Sauna Zuben E.
Published: July 2022

The emergence of the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus is the most important public-health issue of our time. Understanding the diverse clinical presentations of the ensuing disease, COVID-19, remains a critical unmet need. Here we present a comprehensive listing of the diverse clinical indications associated with COVID-19. We explore the theory that anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies could cross-react with endogenous human proteins driving some of the pathologies associated with COVID-19. We describe a novel computational approach to estimate structural homology between SARS-CoV-2 proteins and human proteins. Antibodies are more likely to interrogate 3D-structural epitopes than continuous linear epitopes. This computational workflow identified 346 human proteins containing a domain with high structural homology to a SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan strain protein. Of these, 102 proteins exhibit functions that could contribute to COVID-19 clinical pathologies. We present a testable hypothesis to delineate unexplained clinical observations vis-à-vis COVID-19 and a tool to evaluate the safety-risk profile of potential COVID-19 therapies.
Genome-wide comparison deciphers lifestyle adaptation and glass biodeterioration property of Curvularia eragrostidis C52
Authors: Quach Ngoc Tung , Ngo Cao Cuong , Nguyen Thu Hoai , Nguyen Phi Long , Vu Thi Hanh Nguyen , Phan Thi Hoai Trinh , Nguyen Quang Huy , Le Thanh Thi Minh , Chu Hoang Ha , Phi Quyet-Tien
Published: July 2022

Glass biodeterioration by fungi has caused irreversible damage to valuable glass materials such as cultural heritages and optical devices. To date, knowledge about metabolic potential and genomic profile of biodeteriorative fungi is still scarce. Here, we report for the first time the whole genome sequence of Curvularia eragrostidis C52 that strongly degraded silica-based glasses coated with fluorine and hafnium, as expressed by the hyphal surface coverage of 46.16 ± 3.3% and reduced light transmission of 50.93 ± 1.45%. The genome of C. eragrostidis C52 is 36.9 Mb long with a GC content of 52.1% and contains 14,913 protein-coding genes, which is the largest genome ever recorded in the genus Curvularia. Phylogenomic analysis revealed C. eragrostidis C52 formed a distinct cluster with Curvularia sp. IFB-Z10 and was not evolved from compared genomes. Genome-wide comparison showed that strain C52 harbored significantly higher proportion of proteins involved in carbohydrate-active enzymes, peptidases, secreted proteins, and transcriptional factors, which may be potentially attributed to a lifestyle adaptation. Furthermore, 72 genes involved in the biosynthesis of 6 different organic acids were identified and expected to be crucial for the fungal survival in the glass environment. To form biofilm against stress, the fungal strain utilized 32 genes responsible for exopolysaccharide production. These findings will foster a better understanding of the biology of C. eragrostidis and the mechanisms behind fungal biodeterioration in the future.
Evidence of endogenously produced hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and persulfidation in male reproduction
Authors: Řimnáčová Hedvika , Moravec Jiří , Štiavnická Miriama , Havránková Jiřina , Monsef Ladan , Hošek Petr , Prokešová Šárka , Žalmanová Tereza , Fenclová Tereza , Petr Jaroslav , Králíčková Milena , Nevoral Jan
Published: July 2022

Persulfidation contributes to a group of redox post-translational modifications (PTMs), which arise exclusively on the sulfhydryl group of cysteine as a result of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) action. Redox-active molecules, including H2S, contribute to sperm development; therefore, redox PTMs represent an extremely important signalling pathway in sperm life. In this path, persulfidation prevents protein damage caused by irreversible cysteine hyperoxidation and thus maintains this signalling pathway. In our study, we detected both H2S and its production by all H2S-releasing enzymes (cystathionine γ-lyase (CTH), cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (MPST)) in male reproduction, including spermatozoa. We provided evidence that sperm H2S leads to persulfidation of proteins, such as glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, tubulin, and anchor protein A-kinase. Overall, this study suggests that persulfidation, as a part of the redox signalling pathway, is tightly regulated by enzymatic H2S production and is required for sperm viability.
Overcoming addition of phosphoethanolamine to lipid A mediated colistin resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii clinical isolates with colistin–sulbactam combination therapy
Authors: Srisakul Sukrit , Wannigama Dhammika Leshan , Higgins Paul G. , Hurst Cameron , Abe Shuichi , Hongsing Parichart , Saethang Thammakorn , Luk-in Sirirat , Liao Tingting , Kueakulpattana Naris , Shein Aye Mya Sithu , Gan Lin , Kupwiwat Rosalyn , Tanasatitchai Chanikan , Wapeesittipan Pattama , Phattharapornjaroen Phatthranit , Badavath Vishnu Nayak , Leelahavanichkul Asada , Chatsuwan Tanittha
Published: July 2022

Overcoming colistin-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CoR-AB) has become a major concern due to the lack of effective antibiotics. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of CoR-AB clinical isolates in Thailand, their mechanisms of resistance, and test the efficacy of colistin plus sulbactam against CoR-AB isolates. The colistin resistance rate among carbapenem-resistant A. baumannii was 15.14%. The mcr gene or its variants were not detected in CoR-AB isolates by PCR screening. The lipid A mass spectra of CoR-AB isolates showed the additional [M–H]− ion peak at m/z = 2034 that correlated to the phosphoethanolamine (pEtN) addition to lipid A (N = 27/30). The important amino acid substitutions were found at position S14P, A138T, A227V in PmrB that are associated with overexpression of the pEtN transferase (PmrC) and contributed the pEtN addition. The lipopolysacccharide production genes (lpxACD) were not related to lipid A mass spectra. A colistin plus sulbactam combination exhibited the synergy rate at 86.7% against CoR-AB isolates compare to sulbactam (85.89% resistance) or colistin (15.14% resistance) alone. The excellent synergistic activity of colistin plus sulbactam combination has the potential for the treatment of CoR-AB infections.
Oxytocin via oxytocin receptor excites neurons in the endopiriform nucleus of juvenile mice
Authors: Biggs Lindsey M. , Hammock Elizabeth A. D.
Published: July 2022

The neuropeptide oxytocin (OXT) modulates social behaviors across species and may play a developmental role for these behaviors and their mediating neural pathways. Despite having high, stable levels of OXT receptor (OXTR) ligand binding from birth, endopiriform nucleus (EPN) remains understudied. EPN integrates olfactory and gustatory input and has reciprocal connections with several limbic areas. Because the role of OXTR signaling in EPN is unknown, we sought to provide anatomical and electrophysiological information about OXTR signaling in mouse EPN neurons. Using in situ hybridization, we found that most EPN neurons co-expressOxtrmRNA and the marker for VGLUT1, a marker for glutamatergic cells. Based on high levels of OXTR ligand binding in EPN, we hypothesized that oxytocin application would modulate activity in these cells as measured by whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology. Bath application of OXT and an OXTR specific ligand (TGOT) increased the excitability of EPN neurons in wild-type, but not in OXTR-knockout (KO) tissue. These results show an effect of OXT on a mainly VGLUT1+ cell population within EPN. Given the robust, relatively stable OXTR expression in EPN throughout life, OXTR in this multi-sensory and limbic integration area may be important for modulating activity in response to an array of social or other salient stimuli throughout the lifespan and warrants further study.