bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The Strong Stratospheric Polar Vortex in March 2020 in Sub‐Seasonal to Seasonal Models: Implications for Empirical Prediction of the Low Arctic Total Ozone Extreme
Authors: Rao Jian , Garfinkel Chaim I. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractUsing reanalysis and real‐time forecasts from 11 sub‐seasonal to seasonal (S2S) models, the strong stratospheric polar vortex in March 2020 coupled with Arctic ozone loss and their predictability are reported in this study. Arctic ozone reached a minimum value in March 2020 similar to the events in 1997 and 2011. Upward propagation of waves into the stratosphere in winter–early spring was anomalously weak, and the weakened Brewer‐Dobson circulation transported less ozone‐rich air to the Arctic stratosphere in November 2019–March 2020, which contributes around 40% of the total Arctic ozone loss in March, with the residual mainly explained by the chemical loss. Anomalous upwelling in the Arctic further cooled and intensified the polar vortex for ozone depletion and weak mixing, preventing recovery of ozone in early spring 2020. The polar vortex intensity and Arctic total ozone are strongly coupled, so a prediction of Arctic total ozone becomes possible for S2S models using metrics of the polar vortex as a proxy. The prediction of the strong stratospheric polar vortex in late March 2020 is assessed for four common initializations (February 27, March 5, March 12, and March 19) for S2S models. Displacement of the polar vortex toward the Western Hemisphere can only be forecasted in the two later initializations, and its intensity anomaly is underestimated in nearly all of those forecasts. Therefore, the empirical model using the S2S outputs also underestimates the Arctic total ozone. Despite this underestimation, this extremely strong polar vortex event led to improved surface predictability on subseasonal timescales: near‐surface temperature and precipitation are well forecasted 2–3 weeks in advance.
Impacts of Multiple Environmental Changes on Long‐Term Nitrogen Loading From the Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Authors: Pan Shufen , Bian Zihao , Tian Hanqin , Yao Yuanzhi , Najjar Raymond G. , Friedrichs Marjorie A. M. , Hofmann Eileen E. , Xu Rongting , Zhang Bowen 
Published: April 2021

AbstractExcessive nutrient inputs from land, particularly nitrogen (N), have been found to increase the occurrence of hypoxia and harmful algal blooms in coastal ecosystems. To identify the main contributors of increased N loading and evaluate the efficacy of water pollution control policies, it is essential to quantify and attribute the long‐term changes in riverine N export. Here, we use a state‐of‐the‐art terrestrial–aquatic interface model to examine how multiple environmental factors may have affected N export from the Chesapeake Bay watershed since 1900. These factors include changes in climate, carbon dioxide, land use, and N inputs (i.e., atmospheric N deposition, animal manure, synthetic N fertilizer use, and wastewater discharge). Our results estimated that ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3−) export increased substantially (66% for NH4+ and 123% for NO3−) from the 1900s to the 1990s and then declined (32% for NH4+ and 14% for NO3−) since 2000. The temporal trend of dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) export paralleled that of dissolved inorganic N, while particulate organic nitrogen export was relatively constant during 1900–2015. Precipitation was the primary driver of interannual variability in N export to the Bay. Wastewater discharge explained most of the long‐term change in riverine NH4+ and DON fluxes from 1900 to 2015. The changes in atmospheric deposition, wastewater, and synthetic fertilizer were responsible for the trend of riverine NO3−. In light of our model‐based attribution analysis, terrestrial non‐point source nutrient management will play an important role in achieving water quality goals.
Progression of Wave Breaker Types on a Plane Impermeable Slope, Depending on Experimental Design
Authors: Moragues M. V. , Losada M. Á. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractThe objective of this research was to analyze the progression of breaker types on plane impermeable slopes. This study used dimensional analysis to demonstrate the relative water depth is a key explanatory quantity. The dominant breaker types depend on the incident wave characteristics at the foot of the slope. Accordingly, it is possible to combine values of H, T, and m. The physical experiments of Galvin, recent numerical results, and new experiments, performed on an impermeable 1:10 slope, were used to verify the result. It was thus possible to obtain the progression of breaker types in different sequences of pairs of combined wave H and T values. Once a sequence is defined, the expected progression of breaker types is predictable, and is well approximated by the log‐transform of the alternate similarity parameter. Since the classification of breaker types is discontinuous, the data assigned to each type were placed in horizontal lines, based on the value of log(χ). Given that the breaking of a wave train on a slope should be considered a continuous process, the location of some data was corrected to satisfy this assumption. There is thus a functional relationship between the sets of the experimental space and of the breaker types. This research also derives the non‐dimensional energy dissipation on the slope, considering the wave‐reflected energy flux on the slope. It is proportional to a dimensionless bulk dissipation coefficient which depends on the breaker type and, therefore, on the value of χ at the toe of the slope.
MEF2A transcriptionally upregulates the expression of ZEB2 and CTNNB1 in colorectal cancer to promote tumor progression
Authors: Xiao Qing , Gan Yaqi , Li Yimin , Fan Lili , Liu Jiaqi , Lu Pengyan , Liu Jiaxin , Chen Aoao , Shu Guang , Yin Gang 
Published: April 2021

AbstractColorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading cancers worldwide, accounting for high morbidity and mortality. The mechanisms governing tumor growth and metastasis in CRC require detailed investigation. The results of the present study indicated that the transcription factor (TF) myocyte enhancer factor 2A (MEF2A) plays a dual role in promoting proliferation and metastasis of CRC by inducing the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and activation of WNT/β-catenin signaling. Aberrant expression of MEF2A in CRC clinical specimens was significantly associated with poor prognosis and metastasis. Functionally, MEF2A directly binds to the promoter region to initiate the transcription of ZEB2 and CTNNB1. Simultaneous activation of the expression of EMT-related TFs and Wnt/β-catenin signaling by MEF2A overexpression induced the EMT and increased the frequency of tumor formation and metastasis. The present study identified a new critical oncogene involved in the growth and metastasis of CRC, providing a potential novel therapeutic target for CRC intervention.
Neuroplacentology in congenital heart disease: placental connections to neurodevelopmental outcomes
Authors: Leon Rachel L. , Mir Imran N. , Herrera Christina L. , Sharma Kavita , Spong Catherine Y. , Twickler Diane M. , Chalak Lina F. 
Published: April 2021

Abstract
Children with congenital heart disease (CHD) are living longer due to effective medical and surgical management. However, the majority have neurodevelopmental delays or disorders. The role of the placenta in fetal brain development is unclear and is the focus of an emerging field known as neuroplacentology. In this review, we summarize neurodevelopmental outcomes in CHD and their brain imaging correlates both in utero and postnatally. We review differences in the structure and function of the placenta in pregnancies complicated by fetal CHD and introduce the concept of a placental inefficiency phenotype that occurs in severe forms of fetal CHD, characterized by a myriad of pathologies. We propose that in CHD placental dysfunction contributes to decreased fetal cerebral oxygen delivery resulting in poor brain growth, brain abnormalities, and impaired neurodevelopment. We conclude the review with key areas for future research in neuroplacentology in the fetal CHD population, including (1) differences in structure and function of the CHD placenta, (2) modifiable and nonmodifiable factors that impact the hemodynamic balance between placental and cerebral circulations, (3) interventions to improve placental function and protect brain development in utero, and (4) the role of genetic and epigenetic influences on the placenta–heart–brain connection.

Impact

Neuroplacentology seeks to understand placental connections to fetal brain development.

In fetuses with CHD, brain growth abnormalities begin in utero.

Placental microstructure as well as perfusion and function are abnormal in fetal CHD.
Autologous stem cell transplantation for post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders after solid organ transplantation: a retrospective analysis from the Lymphoma Working Party of the EBMT
Authors: Eyre Toby A. , Caillard Sophie , Finel Herve , Boumendil Ariane , Kothari Jaimal , Zimmermann Heiner , Trappe Ralf Ulrich , De Wilde Virginie , Tholouli Eleni , Kanfer Edward , Broom Angus , Damaj Gandhi , Bargetzi Mario , Kozák Tomáš , Hilgendorf Inken , Crawley Charles , Kerre Tessa , Trněný Marek , Bachy Emmanuel , Robinson Stephen , Montoto Silvia 
Published: April 2021

AbstractPublished data describing the efficacy and safety of autologous stem-cell transplantation (autoSCT) in post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders (PTLD) is limited to case reports. This is a retrospective analysis of 21 patients reported to the EBMT registry who received an autoSCT for PTLD post solid organ transplant (SOT). Median age at autoSCT was 47 (range: 22–71) years. The commonest SOTs were kidney (48%) and liver (24%). Commonest histologies included DLBCL-type PTLD (14/21) and plasmacytoma-like PTLD (3/21). Patients received a median of two lines of therapy (range: 1–4) pre-autoSCT. ECOG performance status pre-autoSCT was 0 in 14% and 1 in 86%. Remission status pre-autoSCT was CR 47% and PR 38%. BEAM conditioning was used in 57% and high-dose melphalan in 10%. The median follow-up post-autoSCT was 64 months for alive patients. 3-year PFS was 62% [95% confidence interval (CI) 44–87%] and 3-year OS was 61% [95% CI:43–86]. There were 12 deaths, including four related to autoSCT. 100-day non-relapse-mortality (NRM) was 14% and 1-year NRM was 24%. This study suggests that autoSCT, although feasible and with potential therapeutic activity, is associated with a high NRM, primarily driven by infectious toxicity. A multi-disciplinary approach, expert microbiological input and stringent patient selection are required to optimise outcomes.
Berberine attenuates choline-induced atherosclerosis by inhibiting trimethylamine and trimethylamine-N-oxide production via manipulating the gut microbiome
Authors: Li Xingxing , Su Chunyan , Jiang Zhibo , Yang Yuxin , Zhang Yue , Yang Mengxia , Zhang Xiumin , Du Yu , Zhang Jin , Wang Li , Jiang Jiandong , Hong Bin 
Published: April 2021

AbstractTrimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO), a derivative from the gut microbiota metabolite trimethylamine (TMA), has been identified to be an independent risk factor for promoting atherosclerosis. Evidences suggest that berberine (BBR) could be used to treat obesity, diabetes and atherosclerosis, however, its mechanism is not clear mainly because of its poor oral bioavailability. Here, we show that BBR attenuated TMA/TMAO production in the C57BL/6J and ApoE KO mice fed with choline-supplemented chow diet, and mitigated atherosclerotic lesion areas in ApoE KO mice. Inhibition of TMA/TMAO production by BBR-modulated gut microbiota was proved by a single-dose administration of d9-choline in vivo. Metagenomic analysis of cecal contents demonstrated that BBR altered gut microbiota composition, microbiome functionality, and cutC/cntA gene abundance. Furthermore, BBR was shown to inhibit choline-to-TMA conversion in TMA-producing bacteria in vitro and in gut microbial consortium from fecal samples of choline-fed mice and human volunteers, and the result was confirmed by transplantation of TMA-producing bacteria in mice. These results offer new insights into the mechanisms responsible for the anti-atherosclerosis effects of BBR, which inhibits commensal microbial TMA production via gut microbiota remodeling.
Comparison of short-range order in irradiated dysprosium titanates
Authors: Sherrod Roman , O’Quinn Eric C. , Gussev Igor M. , Overstreet Cale , Neuefeind Joerg , Lang Maik K. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractThe structural response of Dy2TiO5 oxide under swift heavy ion irradiation (2.2 GeV Au ions) was studied over a range of structural length scales utilizing neutron total scattering experiments. Refinement of diffraction data confirms that the long-range orthorhombic structure is susceptible to ion beam-induced amorphization with limited crystalline fraction remaining after irradiation to 8 × 1012 ions/cm2. In contrast, the local atomic arrangement, examined through pair distribution function analysis, shows only subtle changes after irradiation and is still described best by the original orthorhombic structural model. A comparison to Dy2Ti2O7 pyrochlore oxide under the same irradiation conditions reveals a different behavior: while the dysprosium titanate pyrochlore is more radiation resistant over the long-range with smaller degree of amorphization as compared to Dy2TiO5, the former involves more local atomic rearrangements, best described by a pyrochlore-to-weberite-type transformation. These results highlight the importance of short-range and medium-range order analysis for a comprehensive description of radiation behavior.
A silicon carbide-based highly transparent passivating contact for crystalline silicon solar cells approaching efficiencies of 24%
Authors: Köhler Malte , Pomaska Manuel , Procel Paul , Santbergen Rudi , Zamchiy Alexandr , Macco Bart , Lambertz Andreas , Duan Weiyuan , Cao Pengfei , Klingebiel Benjamin , Li Shenghao , Eberst Alexander , Luysberg Martina , Qiu Kaifu , Isabella Olindo , Finger Friedhelm , Kirchartz Thomas , Rau Uwe , Ding Kaining 
Published: April 2021

AbstractA highly transparent passivating contact (TPC) as front contact for crystalline silicon (c-Si) solar cells could in principle combine high conductivity, excellent surface passivation and high optical transparency. However, the simultaneous optimization of these features remains challenging. Here, we present a TPC consisting of a silicon-oxide tunnel layer followed by two layers of hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon carbide (nc-SiC:H(n)) deposited at different temperatures and a sputtered indium tin oxide (ITO) layer (c-Si(n)/SiO2/nc-SiC:H(n)/ITO). While the wide band gap of nc-SiC:H(n) ensures high optical transparency, the double layer design enables good passivation and high conductivity translating into an improved short-circuit current density (40.87 mA cm−2), fill factor (80.9%) and efficiency of 23.99 ± 0.29% (certified). Additionally, this contact avoids the need for additional hydrogenation or high-temperature postdeposition annealing steps. We investigate the passivation mechanism and working principle of the TPC and provide a loss analysis based on numerical simulations outlining pathways towards conversion efficiencies of 26%.
Fluid activity detection in geothermal areas using a single seismic station by monitoring horizontal-to-vertical spectral ratios
Authors: Okamoto Kyosuke , Asanuma Hiroshi , Nimiya Hiro 
Published: April 2021

AbstractSubsurface structure survey based on horizontal-to-vertical (H/V) spectral ratios is widely conducted. The major merit of this survey is its convenience to obtain a stable result using a single station. Spatial variations of H/V spectral ratios are well-known phenomena, and it has been used to estimate the spatial fluctuation in subsurface structures. It is reasonable to anticipate temporal variations in H/V spectral ratios, especially in areas like geothermal fields, carbon capture and storage fields, etc., where rich fluid flows are expected, although there are few reports about the temporal changes. In Okuaizu Geothermal Field (OGF), Japan, dense seismic monitoring was deployed in 2015, and continuous monitoring has been consistent. We observed the H/V spectral ratios in OGF and found their repeated temporary drops. These drops seemed to be derived from local fluid activities according to a numerical calculation. Based on this finding, we examined a coherency between the H/V spectral ratios and fluid activities in OGF and found a significance. In conclusion, monitoring H/V spectral ratios can enable us to grasp fluid activities that sometimes could lead to a relatively large seismic event.
Phylogenomic and morphological relationships among the botryllid ascidians (Subphylum Tunicata, Class Ascidiacea, Family Styelidae)
Authors: Nydam Marie L. , Lemmon Alan R. , Cherry Jesse R. , Kortyna Michelle L. , Clancy Darragh L. , Hernandez Cecilia , Cohen C. Sarah 
Published: April 2021

AbstractAscidians (Phylum Chordata, Class Ascidiacea) are a large group of invertebrates which occupy a central role in the ecology of marine benthic communities. Many ascidian species have become successfully introduced around the world via anthropogenic vectors. The botryllid ascidians (Order Stolidobranchia, Family Styelidae) are a group of 53 colonial species, several of which are widespread throughout temperate or tropical and subtropical waters. However, the systematics and biology of this group of ascidians is not well-understood. To provide a systematic framework for this group, we have constructed a well-resolved phylogenomic tree using 200 novel loci and 55 specimens. A Principal Components Analysis of all species described in the literature using 31 taxonomic characteristics revealed that some species occupy a unique morphological space and can be easily identified using characteristics of adult colonies. For other species, additional information such as larval or life history characteristics may be required for taxonomic discrimination. Molecular barcodes are critical for guiding the delineation of morphologically similar species in this group.
Fibrinogen may aid in the early differentiation between amniotic fluid embolism and postpartum haemorrhage: a retrospective chart review
Authors: Matsunaga Shigetaka , Masuko Hiroko , Takai Yasushi , Kanayama Naohiro , Seki Hiroyuki 
Published: April 2021

AbstractThis study aimed to determine whether blood loss and fibrinogen can differentiate amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) from postpartum haemorrhage (PPH). This retrospective case–control study included nine patients with clinical AFE (“AFE group”) and 78 patients with PPH managed at our tertiary care perinatal centre between January 2014 and March 2016. Patients meeting the Japanese diagnostic criteria for AFE were stratified into cardiopulmonary collapse-type AFE and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)-type AFE groups. The relationship between blood loss and fibrinogen at onset was examined to compare DIC severity. Vital signs at onset were not significantly different. The AFE group had significantly less blood loss at onset (1506 mL vs 1843 mL, P = 0.0163), significantly more blood loss 2 h post-onset (3304 mL vs 1996 mL, P < 0.0001) and more severe coagulopathy and fibrinolysis. The blood loss/fibrinogen (B/F) ratio at onset was significantly higher in the DIC-type AFE group (23.15 ± 8.07 vs 6.28 ± 3.35 mL dL/mg, P < 0.0001). AFE was complicated by catastrophic DIC irrespective of blood loss at onset. Fibrinogen exhibited the strongest correlation among test findings at onset. The B/F ratio may help differentiate PPH from DIC-type AFE and diagnose clinical AFE, facilitating optimal replacement of coagulation factors during the early stages.
Multiple internal controls enhance reliability for PCR and real time PCR detection of Rathayibacter toxicus
Authors: Arif Mohammad , Busot Grethel Y. , Mann Rachel , Rodoni Brendan , Stack James P. 
Published: April 2021

AbstractRathayibacter toxicus is a toxigenic bacterial plant pathogen indigenous to Australia and South Africa. A threat to livestock industries globally, the bacterium was designated a U.S. Select Agent. Biosecurity and phytosanitary concerns arise due to the international trade of seed and hay that harbor the bacterium. Accurate diagnostic protocols to support phytosanitary decisions, delineate areas of freedom, and to support research are required to address those concerns. Whole genomes of three genetic populations of R. toxicus were sequenced (Illumina MiSeq platforms), assembled and genomic regions unique to each population identified. Highly sensitive and specific TaqMan qPCR and multiplex endpoint PCR assays were developed for the detection and identification of R. toxicus to the population level of discrimination. Specificity was confirmed with appropriate inclusivity and exclusivity panels; no cross reactivity was observed. The endpoint multiplex PCR and TaqMan qPCR assays detected 10 fg and 1 fg of genomic DNA, respectively. To enhance reliability and increase confidence in results, three types of internal controls with no or one extra primer were developed and incorporated into each assay to detect both plant and artificial internal controls. Assays were validated by blind ring tests with multiple operators in three international laboratories.
Sodium nitrite as a corrosion inhibitor of copper in simulated cooling water
Authors: Rizvi Marziya , Gerengi Husnu , Kaya Savas , Uygur Ilyas , Yıldız Mesut , Sarıoglu Ibrahim , Cingiz Zafer , Mielniczek Michal , El Ibrahimi Brahim 
Published: April 2021

AbstractThe corrosion inhibition behavior of sodium nitrite (NaNO2) towards pure copper (99.95%) in simulated cooling water (SCW) was investigated by means of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and dynamic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (DEIS). NaNO2interferes with metal dissolution and reduce the corrosion rate through the formation or maintenance of inhibitive film on the metal surface. Surface morphologies illustrated that the surface homogeneity increased on adding sodium nitrite. Sodium nitrite’s adsorption on copper surface followed the modified form of Langmuir, Freundlich and Frumkin isotherms. Physiosorption mode was involved in the corrosion protection. Electrochemical results revealed an corrosion resistance of copper increases on increasing the inhibitor concentration. The DEIS results indicated that copper corrosion mechanism could be hindered by 50% even after interval of 24 h by optimum concentration of sodium nitrite. The maximum inhibition was achieved with 2000 ppm of NaNO2. With this concentration, inhibition efficiency of up to 61.8% was achievable.