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Background:Dyspnoea, a commonly reported symptom among patients with cancer, necessitates the need for appropriate non-pharmacological interventions for its management and suitable assessment scales.Aims:To explore the nursing interventions and assessment scales for managing dyspnoea in patients with cancer receiving palliative care.Methods:Systematic review. Five databases (CINAHL Complete, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) were searched, and seven studies were identified. Only studies that comprised randomised controlled trials (RCTs), non-randomised controlled trials or quasi-experimental settings were included.Findings:Nursing interventions, that support a patient's physical breathing and mental functioning, are effective in managing dyspnoea. It is crucial to use both subjective and physical assessment methods to accurately measure the outcomes of these interventions.Conclusion:These interventions have been proven to be effective, with outcomes centred on changes in physiological measurements and patients' subjective expressions.

Indirect development with an intermediate larva exists in all major animal lineages1, which makes larvae central to most scenarios of animal evolution2–11. Yet how larvae evolved remains disputed. Here we show that temporal shifts (that is, heterochronies) in trunk formation underpin the diversification of larvae and bilaterian life cycles. We performed chromosome-scale genome sequencing in the annelid Owenia fusiformiswith transcriptomic and epigenomic profiling during the life cycles of this and two other annelids. We found that trunk development is deferred to pre-metamorphic stages in the feeding larva of O.fusiformisbut starts after gastrulation in the non-feeding larva with gradual metamorphosis of Capitella teletaand the direct developing embryo of Dimorphilus gyrociliatus. Accordingly, the embryos of O.fusiformisdevelop first into an enlarged anterior domain that forms larval tissues and the adult head12. Notably, this also occurs in the so-called ‘head larvae’ of other bilaterians13–17, with which the O.fusiformislarva shows extensive transcriptomic similarities. Together, our findings suggest that the temporal decoupling of head and trunk formation, as maximally observed in head larvae, facilitated larval evolution in Bilateria. This diverges from prevailing scenarios that propose either co-option9,10or innovation11of gene regulatory programmes to explain larva and adult origins.

In the present study, the optimal experimental conditions were determined by optimizing the effect of extraction solvent types and volume, salt types and concentration, centrifugation speed and time using one variable at a time. Under optimal experimental conditions, calibration curves were constructed separately using water and apple juice samples as representative matrices, and good linearities were achieved over a wide concentration range of 0.2–1600 ng L−1with a coefficient of determination (r2) ≥ 0.998. The limits of detection (LOD) and limits of quantification (LOQ), determined to be 3 and 10 times the signal-to-noise ratios (S/N), were between 0.07–3.9 and 0.2–12.0 ng L−1for water samples and 2.6–10.0 and 8.0–30.0 ng L−1for the apple juice sample respectively. The precisions study showed %RSD values of ≤6% for both matrices, indicating satisfactory precisions. The enrichment factors and recoveries of the proposed method ranged from 41.4–74.5 and 86–109% respectively. The proposed method could be used as a simple and environmentally friendly alternative for the analysis of OCPs from environmental and food matrices. This method potentially offers a more sustainable and effective approach to monitoring OCPs in environmental and food products. Its use in the analysis of apple juice samples is particularly novel and can provide valuable insights into pesticide contamination in fruit juices.

Background: DNA methylation in the form of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) is the most abundant base modification in animals. However, 5mC levels vary widely across taxa. While vertebrate genomes are hypermethylated, in most invertebrates, 5mC concentrates on constantly and highly transcribed genes (gene body methylation; GbM) and, in some species, on transposable elements (TEs), a pattern known as “mosaic”. Yet, the role and developmental dynamics of 5mC and how these explain interspecies differences in DNA methylation patterns remain poorly understood, especially in Spiralia, a large clade of invertebrates comprising nearly half of the animal phyla. Results: Here, we generate base-resolution methylomes for three species with distinct genomic features and phylogenetic positions in Annelida, a major spiralian phylum. All possible 5mC patterns occur in annelids, from typical invertebrate intermediate levels in a mosaic distribution to hypermethylation and methylation loss. GbM is common to annelids with 5mC, and methylation differences across species are explained by taxon-specific transcriptional dynamics or the presence of intronic TEs. Notably, the link between GbM and transcription decays during development, alongside a gradual and global, age-dependent demethylation in adult stages. Additionally, reducing 5mC levels with cytidine analogs during early development impairs normal embryogenesis and reactivates TEs in the annelid Owenia fusiformis. Conclusions: Our study indicates that global epigenetic erosion during development and aging is an ancestral feature of bilateral animals. However, the tight link between transcription and gene body methylation is likely more important in early embryonic stages, and 5mC-mediated TE silencing probably emerged convergently across animal lineages.

A minequake of magnitude ML4.1 occurred on 18 May 2020 early in the morning at the LKAB underground iron ore mine in Kiruna, Sweden. This is the largest mining‐induced earthquake in Scandinavia. It generated acoustic signals observed at three infrasound arrays at 9.3 (KRIS, Sweden), 155 (IS37, Norway), and 286 km (ARCI, Norway) distance. We perform full‐waveform focal mechanism inversion based on regional seismic data and local infrasound data. These independently highlight that this event was dominated by a shallow‐depth collapse in agreement with in‐mine seismic station data. However, regional infrasound data cannot inform the inversion process without an accurate model of atmospheric winds and temperatures. Yet, our numerical simulations demonstrate a potential of using local and regional infrasound data to constrain an event's focal mechanism and depth. The largest mining‐induced earthquake in Scandinavia (ML4.1) occurred on 18 May 2020 early in the morning at the LKAB underground iron ore mine in Kiruna, Sweden. The seismic waves coupled to the atmosphere and propagated large distances as sound waves which were observed at three infrasound arrays at 9.3 (KRIS, Sweden), 155 (IS37, Norway), and 286 km (ARCI, Norway) distance. Our seismic and acoustic modeling results highlight a strong collapse event within the northern section of the mine. The modeling of acoustic and seismic waves across the Earth‐atmosphere suggests that sound wave data can help when determining the location and properties of a seismic source. Seismic and acoustic records indicate a strong collapse at shallow depth of 1  ±  0.5 km for the 2020 Kiruna minequakeFocal mechanisms and depths of shallow seismic sources can be retrieved from local infrasound recordsInversions using regional infrasound data is possible when accurate weather models are available Seismic and acoustic records indicate a strong collapse at shallow depth of 1  ±  0.5 km for the 2020 Kiruna minequake Focal mechanisms and depths of shallow seismic sources can be retrieved from local infrasound records Inversions using regional infrasound data is possible when accurate weather models are available

Objective: To study neurodevelopmental outcome in a two year cohort of extremely low birthweight (ELBW) infants at 1 8 months corrected age, to compare the development of the ELBW infant [...]

ABSTRACTDue to increased copper production and the associated environmental consequences, copper production processes need to be improved, considering the impact of their byproducts, among others slag. This study investigated the leaching of individual constituents of iron silicate slag from a copper smelter. This was done by characterising granulated samples of its constituents – glass, matte, speiss – to determine their leaching contribution. It was observed that leaching in distilled and deionised water without pH regulation achieved various natural pH for the constituents. At natural pH, glass (Cu, Zn) and speiss (Ni, Sb) contributed to leaching. Static pH titrations showed the increased leaching of Zn, Cu, Ni, As, and Sb with decreasing pH. The results showed that, an iron silicate slag consisting of glass, matte and speiss, contributes to leaching as follows: matte – Cu and Ni, speiss – Cu, Ni, As, and Sb. Zn leaching is similar among the constituents.

ABSTRACTWater-granulated CaO-modified iron-silicate slags have shown beneficial properties for cement applications. To further evaluate potential applications, the leaching properties must be understood. Therefore, this study aims to characterise and assess the metal leaching of iron-silicate slags (2.6% CaO) modified with lime (CaO, up to 20 wt.%) produced on both laboratory and industrial scales. The granulated samples showed amorphous contents for the studied CaO range. Generally, the metal content of the samples decreased with the increasing CaO content. Batch leaching tests were conducted on the slags, and the metal leaching and CaO content of the slag were strongly correlated. The leaching of Zn and Cu decreased with the increasing CaO content in the slag. Overall, the slags with 12–13% CaO exhibited minimal leaching of Zn, Cu, Ni, and Sb. These findings indicate that CaO influences the properties of the slag and can suppress metal leaching from water-granulated iron-silicate slags.

Ions in the F region ionosphere at 150–400 km altitude consist mainly of molecular NO+and O2+${\mathrm{O}}_{2}^{+}$, and atomic O+. Incoherent scatter (IS) radars are sensitive to the molecular‐to‐atomic ion density ratio, but its effect to the observed incoherent scatter spectra is almost identical with that of the ion temperature. It is thus very difficult to fit both the ion temperature and the fraction of O+ions to the observed spectra. In this paper, we introduce a novel combination of Bayesian filtering, smoothness priors, and chemistry modeling to solve for F1region O+ion fraction from EISCAT Svalbard IS radar (75.43° corrected geomagnetic latitude) data during the international polar year (IPY) 2007–2008. We find that the fraction of O+ions in the F1region ionosphere is controlled by ion temperature and electron production. The median value of the molecular‐to‐atomic ion transition altitude during IPY varies from 187 km at 16–17 MLT to 208 km at 04–05 MLT. The ion temperature has maxima at 05–06 MLT and 15–16 MLT, but the transition altitude does not follow the ion temperature, because photoionization lowers the transition altitude. A daytime transition altitude maximum is observed in winter, when lack of photoionization leads to very low daytime electron densities. Both ion temperature and the molecular‐to‐atomic ion transition altitude correlate with the Polar Cap North geomagnetic index. The annual medians of the fitted transition altitudes are 14–32 km lower than those predicted by the International Reference Ionosphere. Ions in the F region ionosphere at 150–400 km altitudes consist mainly of molecular NO+and O2+${\mathrm{O}}_{2}^{+}$, and atomic O+. Incoherent scatter radars are sensitive to the molecular‐to‐atomic ion density ratio, but its effect to the observed incoherent scatter spectra is almost identical with that of the ion temperature. It is thus very difficult to fit both the ion temperature and the fraction of O+ions to the observed spectra. This causes bias to the fitted temperatures and leaves behavior of the F1region ion composition poorly known. We apply a novel combination of inverse mathematics and chemistry modeling to analysis of EISCAT Svalbard incoherent scatter radar data, and solve for both the ion temperature and the fraction of O+ions at the same time. We find that the ion composition is considerably different from a standard model, that it undergoes regular diurnal variations, and it is affected by geomagnetic activity. The typical variations can be qualitatively explained by known diurnal variations in ion temperature, solar photoionization, and ion chemistry. When the ionosphere above Svalbard is in almost complete darkness in mid‐winter, ion composition in the daytime ionosphere is considerably different from that observed during the other seasons. We use novel data analysis techniques and chemistry modeling to fit atomic oxygen ion fractions to EISCAT Svalbard radar data during IPYWe characterize the F1 region ion composition dependence on local time, solar zenith angle, and geomagnetic activityThe molecular‐to‐atomic ion transition altitudes are 14–32 km lower than those predicted by the International Reference Ionosphere We use novel data analysis techniques and chemistry modeling to fit atomic oxygen ion fractions to EISCAT Svalbard radar data during IPY We characterize the F1 region ion composition dependence on local time, solar zenith angle, and geomagnetic activity The molecular‐to‐atomic ion transition altitudes are 14–32 km lower than those predicted by the International Reference Ionosphere

Due to climate change and increasing population growth, there is high food insecurity in Ethiopia, which results in agricultural economic crises. This crisis can be reduced by increasing agricultural production in a whole part of the country. However, rainfall in arid and semi-arid areas is generally insufficient to meet the basic needs of crop production. In order to improve the livelihoods of its rural communities, the government of Ethiopia has currently started implementing rainwater harvesting (RWH) techniques at the household level. This method can help boost the country’s agricultural production and livestock. The main goal of this review is to examine the status of the knowledge and practices of RWH technology for crop production in Ethiopia. The different reviews conducted in Ethiopia revealed the importance of RWH technologies for the country’s rain-fed regions. The positive effects of macro-catchment systems on water productivity in regions such as Amhara, Oromia, Tigray, and the Southern were among the most important findings. Most of these systems are built and operated in these regions, which gave a good picture of their practices. Besides this, the different challenges were addressed during the application of RWH practices in the field, including pond siltation, seepage losses, water lifting problems, and lack of awareness, which were the major ones. These challenges will be reduced when all concerned bodies can participate in the technology at the local level. Therefore, rain-fed agriculture’s ability to increase crop production in the study region has in general demonstrated a significant impact.

The primary focus of this study was the motion of auroral patches and the polarization electric field generated therein observed on 9 November 2015 in an experiment using the European incoherent scatter (EISCAT) radars, Kilpisjärvi Atmospheric Imaging Receiver Array (KAIRA), and an all‐sky imager simultaneously. Based on the all‐sky imager data, the drift speed of the auroral patches corresponded to a southward electric field of 14.1( ± 3.7)–17.2( ± 4.5) mV/m. The convective electric field derived from the EISCAT radars and KAIRA observation was approximately 14.6 mV/m in the southward direction. This suggest that the spatial distribution of the auroral patches reflects the distribution of the cold plasma in the magnetosphere. The electron density and the height‐integrated Hall conductance between 80 and 120 km were enhanced by a factor of 2–4 inside the auroral patches. In this situation, a polarization electric field was generated therein. Enhanced ion velocities due to the polarization electric field was observed at up to 200‐km altitude; however, the absolute values of the ion velocities were approximately 40% of what was expected from the polarization electric field. A field‐aligned current (FAC) from 5 to 10 μA/m−2in the edges of the auroral patches could explain the weakening of the polarization electric field. Since a FAC of that order of magnitude corresponded with that observed by the Swarm satellite, it was suggested that the polarization electric field was weakened by the FAC. Furthermore, the polarization electric field propagated upward from the dynamo region to at least 200 km. The drift speed of auroral patches was consistent with the convective electric fieldThe polarization electric fields perpendicular to the convective electric fields were generated inside the auroral patchesThe upward and downward FACs contacting the west and east side edges of the auroral patches weakened the polarization electric field

The widespread acceptability of mobile devices in present times have caused their applications to be increasingly rich in terms of the functionalities they provide to the end users. Such applications might be very prevalent among users but the execution results in dissipating many of the device end resources. Mobile cloud computing (MCC) has a solution to this problem by offloading certain parts of the application to cloud. At the first place, one might find computation offloading quite promising in terms of saving device end resources but eventually may result in being the other way around if performed in a static manner. Frequent changes in device end resources and computing environment variables may lead to a reduction in the efficiency of offloading techniques and even cause a drop in the quality of service for applications involving the use of real-time information. In order to overcome this problem, the authors propose an adaptive computation offloading framework for data stream applications wherein applications are partitioned dynamically followed by being offloaded depending upon the device end parameters, network conditions, and cloud resources. The article also talks about the proposed algorithm that depicts the workflow of the offloading model. The proposed model is simulated using the CloudSim simulator. In the end, the authors illustrate the working of the proposed system along with the simulated results.

Solar proton events (SPEs) cause large‐scale ionization in the middle atmosphere leading to ozone loss and changes in the energy budget of the middle atmosphere. The accurate implementation of SPEs and other particle ionization sources in climate models is necessary to understand the role of energetic particle precipitation in climate variability. We use riometer observations from 16 riometer stations and the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model with added Dregion ion chemistry (WACCM‐D) to study the spatial and temporal extent of cosmic noise absorption (CNA) during 62 SPEs from 2000 to 2005. We also present a correction method for the nonlinear response of observed CNA during intense absorption events. We find that WACCM‐D can reproduce the observed CNA well with some need for future improvement and testing of the used energetic particle precipitation forcing. The average absolute difference between the model and the observations is found to be less than 0.5 dB poleward of about 66° geomagnetic latitude, and increasing with decreasing latitude to about 1 dB equatorward of about 66° geomagnetic latitude. The differences are largest during twilight conditions where the modeled changes in CNA are more abrupt compared to observations. An overestimation of about 1° to 3° geomagnetic latitude in the extent of the CNA is observed due to the fixed proton cutoff latitude in the model. An unexplained underestimation of CNA by the model during sunlit conditions is observed at stations within the polar cap during 18 of the studied events. CNA during 62 SPEs was studied with WACCM‐D and riometer observationsCNA is modeled well on average and in individual events with a nonlinearity correction for high levels of CNAThe fixed proton cutoff latitude in WACCM‐D at 60 degrees leads to overestimation of the extent of the CNA, especially in small to moderate SPEs

One of the representative auroral emission lines that radiates from F-region heights and is measurable on the ground is the 777.4 nm line from excited atomic oxygen. This line has been adopted, along with another E-region emission line, for example 427.8 nm, to estimate the mean energy and total energy flux of precipitating auroral electrons. The influence of emissions from part of the molecular nitrogen band, which mainly radiate from E-region heights, should be carefully evaluated because it might overlap the 777.4 nm atomic oxygen line in the spectrum. We performed statistical analysis of auroral spectrograph measurements that were obtained during the winter of 2016–2017 in Tromsø, Norway, to derive the ratio of the intensity of the 777.4 nm atomic oxygen line to that of the net measurement through a typically used optical filter with a full width at half maximum of a few nm. The ratio had a negative trend against geomagnetic activity, with a primary distribution of 0.5–0.7 and a minimum value of 0.3 for the most active auroral condition in this study. This result suggests that the 30–50% emission intensities measured through the optical filter may be from the molecular nitrogen band.

This study investigates the response of the semidiurnal tide (SDT) to the 2013 major sudden stratospheric warming (SSW) event using meteor radar wind observations and mechanistic tidal model simulations. In the model, the background atmosphere is constrained to meteorological fields from the Navy Global Environmental Model—High Altitude analysis system. The solar (thermal) and lunar (gravitational) SDT components are forced by incorporating hourly temperature tendency fields from the ERA5 forecast model, and by specifying the M2and N2lunar gravitational potentials, respectively. The simulated SDT response is compared against meteor wind observations from the CMOR (43.3°N, 80.8°W), Collm (51.3°N, 13.0°E), and Kiruna (67.5°N, 20.1°E) radars, showing close agreement with the observed amplitude and phase variability. Numerical experiments investigate the individual roles of the solar and lunar SDT components in shaping the net SDT response. Further experiments isolate the impact of changing propagation conditions through the zonal mean background atmosphere, non‐linear wave‐wave interactions, and the SSW‐induced stratospheric ozone redistribution. Results indicate that between 80 and 97 km altitude in the northern hemisphere mid‐to‐high latitudes the net SDT response is driven by the solar SDT component, which itself is shaped by changing propagation conditions through the zonal mean background atmosphere and by non‐linear wave‐wave interactions. In addition, it is demonstrated that as a result of the rapidly varying solar SDT during the SSW the contribution of the lunar SDT to the total measured tidal field can be significantly overestimated. Simulations of the semidiurnal tide (SDT) are compared against meteor wind observations in the mid‐to‐high latitude northern hemisphere during the 2013 sudden stratospheric warmingIndividual lunar and solar SDT simulations find that the net tidal response is largely driven by the solar componentThe response of the solar SDT is driven by changing zonal mean propagation conditions and by non‐linear interactions with planetary waves Simulations of the semidiurnal tide (SDT) are compared against meteor wind observations in the mid‐to‐high latitude northern hemisphere during the 2013 sudden stratospheric warming Individual lunar and solar SDT simulations find that the net tidal response is largely driven by the solar component The response of the solar SDT is driven by changing zonal mean propagation conditions and by non‐linear interactions with planetary waves

Primary cilia are microtubule-based, dynamic organelles characterized by continuous assembly and disassembly. The intraflagellar transport (IFT) machinery, including IFT88 in cilia, is involved in the maintenance of bidirectional motility along the axonemes, which is required for ciliogenesis and functional competence. Cancer cells are frequently associated with loss of primary cilia and IFT functions. However, there is little information on the role of IFT88 or primary cilia in the metabolic remodeling of cancer cells. Therefore, we investigated the cellular and metabolic effects of the loss-of-function (LOF) mutations of IFT88/primary cilia in thyroid cancer cells. IFT88-deficient 8505C thyroid cancer cells were generated using the CRISPR/Cas9 system, and RNA-sequencing analysis was performed. LOF of the IFT88gene resulted in a marked defect in ciliogenesis and mitochondrial oxidative function. Gene expression patterns in IFT88-deficient thyroid cancer cells favored glycolysis and lipid biosynthesis. However, LOF of IFT88/primary cilia did not promote thyroid cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. The results suggest that IFT88/primary cilia play a role in metabolic reprogramming in thyroid cancer cells.

Differential energy flux of electrons precipitating into the high‐latitude ionosphere can be estimated from incoherent scatter radar observations of the ionospheric electron density profile. We present a method called ELSPEC for electron spectrum estimation from incoherent scatter radar measurements, which is based on integration of the electron continuity equation and spectrum model selection by means of the Akaike information criterion. This approach allows us to use data with almost arbitrary time resolutions, enables spectrum estimation with dense energy grids, avoids noise amplifications in numerical derivatives, and yields statistical error estimates for all the output parameters, including the number and energy fluxes and upward field‐aligned currents carried by the precipitating electrons. The technique is targeted for auroral energies, 1–100 keV, which ionize the atmosphere mainly between 80 and 150 km altitudes. We validate the technique by means of a simulation study, which shows that Maxwellian, kappa, and mono‐energetic spectra, as well as combinations of those, can be reproduced. Comparison study for two conjugate satellite measurements to the EISCAT UHF radar are shown, for Reimei and Swarm, showing an agreement with the results. Finally, an example of a 2‐hr measurement by the EISCAT radar is shown, during which we observe a variety of precipitation characteristics, from soft background precipitation to mono‐energetic spectra with peak energies up to 60 keV. The upward field‐aligned current varies from 0 to 10 μAm−2and the total energy flux from 0 to 250 mWm−2. Electron energy spectra are estimated from incoherent scatter radar measurements by integrating the electron continuity equationEstimates of upward field‐aligned current and auroral power are integrated from the spectrum estimatesThe results are validated using simulations and comparisons with satellite measurements

Dust impact detection by electric field instruments is a relatively new method. However, the influence of dust impacts on electric field measurements is not completely understood and explained. A better understanding is very important for reliable dust impact identification, especially in environments with low dust impact rate. Using data from Earth‐orbiting Magnetospheric Multiscale mission (MMS) spacecraft, we present a study of various pulses detected simultaneously by multiple electric field antennas in the monopole (probe‐to‐spacecraft potential measurement) and dipole (probe‐to‐probe potential measurement) configurations. The study includes data obtained during an impact of a millimeter‐sized object. We show that the identification of dust impacts by a single antenna is a very challenging issue in environments where solitary waves are commonly present and that some pulses can be easily misinterpreted as dust impacts. We used data from multiple antennas to distinguish between changes in the spacecraft potential (dust impact) and structures in the ambient plasma or electric field. Our results indicate that an impact cloud is in some cases able to influence the potential of the electric field antenna during its expansion. Dust impact detection by multiple electric field antennas in the monopole and dipole configurationsSimilarities in signatures of dust impacts and solitary waves are discussedData obtained during the impact of a millimeter‐sized object are described in detail

Using data from the Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory (67°22′N, 26°38′E, Finland) meteor camera from the whole year 2015, we identified and investigated 28 optical meteors with accompanying ionization trails unambiguously detected by the Sodankylä Geophysical Observatory ionosonde, which sounded the ionosphere once per minute with frequency rising from 0.5 to 16 MHz. These ionosonde reflections were obtained from heights around 90 km. The electron line densities of the trails were found to be between 1014and 1016m−1, which characterize the trails as nonunderdense (i.e., transitional and overdense). The ionosonde reflections were observed for a few minutes, with decreasing maximal frequency of the return. During the first 250 s, for the trails with initial line density about (2–3) · 1015m−1the return frequency decreased with time corresponding to the diffusional expansion of cylindrical meteor trails, that is, f∝ t−γ, where the exponent γ= 0.5, whereas less dense trails decayed slower (γ≈ 0.2) and more dense trails decayed faster (γ≈ 1). In many cases the meteor events were accompanied by nonspecular long‐lived detections using a colocated all‐sky interferometric meteor radar with operating frequency 36.9 MHz. As a rule the meteor radar echo durations were longer than expected from diffusional expansion of cylindrical meteor trails and their amplitudes were highly variable. We suggest that the slower frequency decrease of the ionosonde echoes and the nonspecular long‐lived meteor radar echoes might be associated with the presence of meteoric dust. Optical, ionosonde, and meteor radar observations of non‐underdense (transitional and overdense) meteor trails were made at high latitudeDuring the first 4 min the decay rate of ionosonde echo depends on initial electron line density of trails (empirical dependence obtained)Meteor events were accompanied by nonspecular long‐lived detections using a colocated meteor radar with operating frequency 36.9 MHz

Precipitation of energetic particles into the Earth's atmosphere can significantly change the properties, dynamics, as well as the chemical composition of the upper and middle atmosphere. In this paper, using Monte Carlo models, we simulate, from first principles, the interaction of monoenergetic beams of precipitating electrons with the atmosphere, with particular emphasis on the process of bremsstrahlung radiation and its resultant ionization production and atmospheric effects. The pitch angle dependence of the ionization rate profile has been quantified: the altitude of peak ionization rate depends on the pitch angle by a few kilometers. We also demonstrate that the transport of precipitating electron energy in the form of bremsstrahlung photons leads to ionization at altitudes significantly lower than the direct impact ionization, as low as ∼20 km for 1 MeV precipitating electrons. Moreover, chemical modeling results suggest that the chemical effects in the atmosphere due to bremsstrahlung‐induced ionization production during energetic electron precipitation are likely insignificant. The energy and altitude distributions of bremsstrahlung photons produced during electron precipitation have been quantifiedThe ionization rate due to both precipitating electrons and associated bremsstrahlung photons has been calculatedBremsstrahlung‐induced chemical impacts on the atmosphere during realistic electron precipitation are likely insignificant

The plasmas (electrons and ions) in the inner magnetosphere have wide energy ranges from electron volts to mega-electron volts (MeV). These plasmas rotate around the Earth longitudinally due to the gradient and curvature of the geomagnetic field and by the co-rotation motion with timescales from several tens of hours to less than 10 min. They interact with plasma waves at frequencies of mHz to kHz mainly in the equatorial plane of the magnetosphere, obtain energies up to MeV, and are lost into the ionosphere. In order to provide the global distribution and quantitative evaluation of the dynamical variation of these plasmas and waves in the inner magnetosphere, the PWING project (study of dynamical variation of particles and waves in the inner magnetosphere using ground-based network observations, http://www.isee.nagoya-u.ac.jp/dimr/PWING/) has been carried out since April 2016. This paper describes the stations and instrumentation of the PWING project. We operate all-sky airglow/aurora imagers, 64-Hz sampling induction magnetometers, 40-kHz sampling loop antennas, and 64-Hz sampling riometers at eight stations at subauroral latitudes (~ 60° geomagnetic latitude) in the northern hemisphere, as well as 100-Hz sampling EMCCD cameras at three stations. These stations are distributed longitudinally in Canada, Iceland, Finland, Russia, and Alaska to obtain the longitudinal distribution of plasmas and waves in the inner magnetosphere. This PWING longitudinal network has been developed as a part of the ERG (Arase)-ground coordinated observation network. The ERG (Arase) satellite was launched on December 20, 2016, and has been in full operation since March 2017. We will combine these ground network observations with the ERG (Arase) satellite and global modeling studies. These comprehensive datasets will contribute to the investigation of dynamical variation of particles and waves in the inner magnetosphere, which is one of the most important research topics in recent space physics, and the outcome of our research will improve safe and secure use of geospace around the Earth.

Water resources that can be used for different purposes have persistently been affected by both temporal and spatial land use land cover (LULC) changes. However, quantifying the impact of LULC on water resources and developing best management practices (BMPs) is very important for the sustainable use of these resources. The broad objective of this study was to investigate the potential impacts of LULC change on sediment yield and developing the BMPs that have been paramount to alleviate sedimentation in the upper Gidabo dam watershed. In this study, the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model was used to examine the effects of LULC change on sediment yield. The LULC change analyses for three periods (1990, 2005, and 2019) were performed using ERDAS Imagine 2014 and ArcGIS 10.4. During the study periods, agricultural land has increased by 8.9%, while forest land and shrub-land have been declined by 7.11% and 7.53%, respectively. Due to LULC changes, average annual sediment yield was increased up to 3.45 t/ha/yr (44%) and 7.06 t/ha/yr (47.38%) for the period 1990–2005 and 2005–2019 respectively. The result of model performance indicators such as coefficient of determination (R2), Nash-Sutcliff efficiency (NSE), and percentage bias (PBIAS) in simulating sediment yield indicates a good agreements between simulated and observed values during calibration and validation periods. Based on the simulated average annual sediment yield using 2019 LULC, the 10 critical sub-watersheds above the tolerable limit were prioritized for effective watershed management. Hence, three BMPs, namely filter strips, terracing and reforestation were developed for critical sub-watersheds to reduce the sediment yield delivered to the Gidabo dam reservoir. The result revealed the terracing management option reduce the sediment yield up to 64.02%. Implementing filter strips with 5 m, 3 m, and 1 m wide indicates 59.12%, 55.97%, and 50.73% reduction, respectively, whereas reforestation has given the least reduction that is 40.98%. Therefore, applying terracing in critical sub-basins is the most effective practice for reducing sediment yield in upper Gidabo dam watershed.

AbstractBefore the secretion of hard dental tissues, tooth germs undergo several distinctive stages of development (dental lamina, bud, cap and bell). Every stage is characterized by specific proliferation patterns, which is regulated by various morphogens, growth factors and homeodomain proteins. The role of MSX homeodomain proteins in odontogenesis is rather complex. Expression domains of genes encoding for murine Msx1/2 during development are observed in tissues containing highly proliferative progenitor cells. Arrest of tooth development in Msxknockout mice can be attributed to impaired proliferation of progenitor cells. In Msx1knockout mice, these progenitor cells start to differentiate prematurely as they strongly express cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor p19INK4d. p19INK4dinduces terminal differentiation of cells by blocking the cell cycle in mitogen-responsive G1 phase. Direct suppression of p19INK4dby Msx1 protein is, therefore, important for maintaining proliferation of progenitor cells at levels required for the normal progression of tooth development. In this study, we examined the expression patterns of MSX1, MSX2 and p19INK4din human incisor tooth germs during the bud, cap and early bell stages of development. The distribution of expression domains of p19INK4dthroughout the investigated period indicates that p19INK4dplays active role during human tooth development. Furthermore, comparison of expression domains of p19INK4dwith those of MSX1, MSX2 and proliferation markers Ki67, Cyclin A2 and pRb, indicates that MSX-mediated regulation of proliferation in human tooth germs might not be executed by the mechanism similar to one described in developing tooth germs of wild-type mouse.

This study investigates the contribution of energetic (E> 30 keV) particle precipitation during a pulsating aurora event over Kilpisjärvi (L= 6.2) on 26 February 2014. It is based on the comparison of auroral blue‐line emission (427.8 nm) data from an all‐sky camera and cosmic noise absorption (CNA) data obtained from a multibeam experiment of the Kilpisjärvi Atmospheric Imaging Receiver Array (KAIRA) riometer. The data sets are compared for three KAIRA beams close to magnetic zenith. Results show a clear correlation between the measured CNA and the auroral blue‐line emission during the event, for each beam. In addition, individual pulsations are observed for the first time in the cosmic noise absorption data measured by KAIRA and are found to be close‐to‐identical to the optical pulsations. This suggests that the modulation of electron precipitation during pulsating aurora takes place in a consistent way over a broad range of energies. Cosmic noise absorption and blue‐line auroral emission are strongly correlated during pulsating aurora eventIndividual pulsations can be detected in cosmic noise absorption data and are consistent with the optical pulsationsPrecipitation of both auroral and energetic electrons was simultaneously modulated during the studied pulsating aurora event

We present the first study of dust impact events on one of the Earth‐orbiting Cluster satellites. The events were identified in the measurements of the wide band data (WBD) instrument on board the satellite operating in monopole configuration. Since 2009 the instrument is operating in this configuration due to the loss of three electric probes and is therefore measuring the potential between the only operating antenna and the spacecraft body. Our study shows that the WBD instrument on Cluster 1 is able to detect pulses generated by dust impacts and discusses four such events. The presence of instrumental effects, intensive natural waves, noncontinuous sampling modes, and the automatic gain control complicates this detection. Due to all these features, we conclude that the Cluster spacecraft are not ideal for dust impact studies. We show that the duration and amplitudes of the pulses recorded by Cluster are similar to pulses detected by STEREO, and the shape of the pulses can be described with the model of the recollection of impact cloud electrons by the positively charged spacecraft. We estimate that the detected impacts were generated by micron‐sized grains with velocities in the order of tens of km/s. The first hypervelocity dust impact detection by the Cluster spacecraftThe concept of dust impact detection with electric field instruments is discussedThe size and velocity of impinging dust grains are estimated

It is well known that auroral patterns at the substorm recovery phase are characterized by diffuse or patch structures with intensity pulsation. According to satellite measurements and simulation studies, the precipitating electrons associated with these aurorae can reach or exceed energies of a few hundreds of keV through resonant wave‐particle interactions in the magnetosphere. However, because of difficulty of simultaneous measurements, the dependency of energetic electron precipitation (EEP) on auroral morphological changes in the mesoscale has not been investigated to date. In order to study this dependency, we have analyzed data from the European Incoherent Scatter (EISCAT) radar, the Kilpisjärvi Atmospheric Imaging Receiver Array (KAIRA) riometer, collocated cameras, ground‐based magnetometers, the Van Allen Probe satellites, Polar Operational Environmental Satellites (POES), and the Antarctic‐Arctic Radiation‐belt (Dynamic) Deposition‐VLF Atmospheric Research Konsortium (AARDDVARK). Here we undertake a detailed examination of two case studies. The selected two events suggest that the highest energy of EEP on those days occurred with auroral patch formation from postmidnight to dawn, coinciding with the substorm onset at local midnight. Measurements of the EISCAT radar showed ionization as low as 65 km altitude, corresponding to EEP with energies of about 500 keV. Aurora is emission of the atmospheric particles excited by electrons coming from the magnetosphere. The electrons have energies of 1–10 keV or higher. In particular, it is known that the energy can increase more than 100 keV in association with the pulsating aurora and that morphology of the pulsating aurora changes with time. However, relationships between the energy increase and the morphological change have not been studied well. This study analyzed the ionospheric density and auroral images and found that significant increases of the energy coincides with evolution of the patch structures in the pulsating aurora. Ground‐based and satellite measurements showed that auroral EEP (>100 keV) coincided with the patch appearance in the late morningMeasurements of the EISCAT radar showed ionization as low as 65 km altitude by ~500 keV electron precipitationEEP activity highly depended on MLT rather than geomagnetic activity

The mesosphere/lower thermosphere (MLT, 80–100 km) region is an important boundary between Earth's atmosphere below and space above and may act as a sensitive indicator for anthropogenic climate change. Existing observational and modeling studies have shown the middle atmosphere and the MLT is cooling and contracting because of increasing greenhouse gas emissions. However, trend analyses are highly sensitive to the time periods covered, their length, and the measurement type and methodology used. We present for the first time the linear and 11‐year solar cycle responses in the meteor ablation altitude distributions observed by 12 meteor radars at different locations. Decreasing altitudes were seen at all latitudes (linear trends varying from −10.97 to −817.95 m dec−1), and a positive correlation with solar activity was seen for most locations. The divergence of responses at high latitudes indicates an important and complex interplay between atmospheric changes and dynamics at varying time scales. High up in our atmosphere lies the mesosphere/lower thermosphere region (80–100 km); an important transition zone between the atmosphere below and space above. Existing studies indicate that this region is changing (cooling and contracting) in response to increasing greenhouse gas emissions, quite unlike the net warming we see near the surface. However these trend studies are often highly sensitive to choice and length of time period covered, and the methodology and type of measurements used. Here we present for the first time a self‐consistent methodology applied to 12 different meteor radar station datasets located at a diverse range of latitudes. We looked at changes in the mean peak altitude of individual meteoroid detections, and found decreasing peak altitudes at all locations examined (linear trends varying from −10.97 to −817.95 m decade−1) consistent with a global cooling and contracting of the upper atmosphere. We also examined the response to the 11‐year solar cycle and found a positive correlation with solar activity (i.e., increased meteoroid peak altitudes during solar maximum, and vice versa) for low and mid‐latitude locations. However we found an anti‐correlation at high latitudes suggestive of an important and complex interplay between atmospheric changes and dynamics at varying time scales. Use of geographically diverse meteor radar peak detection altitudes to assess long‐term and 11‐year solar cycle (SC) trends in mesopause regionThe altitude of observed peak meteor height has decreased over time at all locations, regardless of latitude and data setPositive correlation at low‐ and mid‐latitude locations with the 11‐year SC, but more complex response at high‐latitudes Use of geographically diverse meteor radar peak detection altitudes to assess long‐term and 11‐year solar cycle (SC) trends in mesopause region The altitude of observed peak meteor height has decreased over time at all locations, regardless of latitude and data set Positive correlation at low‐ and mid‐latitude locations with the 11‐year SC, but more complex response at high‐latitudes

Analysis of pesticide residue levels in juice beverages is important to ensure safe consumption and avoid global trade concerns associated to pesticide contaminations. A simple, inexpensive and effective method was developed for the determination of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) in bottled juice drinks using GC-MS. Sample pretreatment was performed using dispersive solid-phase microextraction (D-μ-SPE) for matrix desorption and dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) for analyte enrichment. In this study, an affordable and effective sorbent for the adsorption of OCPs from juice samples was synthesized from avocado seeds mixed with magnetic precursors for D-μSPE. The ground avocado seeds combined with a magnetic precursor nanocomposite were characterized using various instruments including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis. The solution obtained from D-μ-SPE desorption was used as a dispersant for the subsequent DLLME, which made the combination of D-μ-SPE with DLLME much easier. The effectiveness of the method was enhanced by optimizing the influential parameters in both D-μ-SPE and DLLME. Then after, the optimal values were determined for the real sample analysis. Accordingly, there was good linear dynamic range with a coefficient of determination (r2) ≥ 0.9989. The limit of detection and quantification were 0.02–0.69 and 0.06–2.10 ng/L respectively. The method showed high enrichment factors ranging from 96 to 313 with recoveries of 87–100 %. Intraday and interday precisions were ≤4 %. Compared with other reported methods, this method is a one-step, simple, cheap, fast, and environmentally friendly alternative and straightforward method for adsorbing organochlorine pesticides from sample solutions. These results demonstrates the high potential of the proposed method for the extraction and cleanup of contaminants in selected juices and other related samples.

The November 2001 Solar Proton Event (SPE) is one of the strongest events in the era of satellite observations. However, no observational case study of this exceptional event's impact on atmospheric chemistry has been reported. In this paper, we use satellite‐based observations from Optical Spectrograph and Infrared Imaging Systems (OSIRIS) to quantify the SPE impact on middle atmospheric O3in the southern hemisphere during summertime conditions. The results show a relatively modest, yet detectable, O3depletion in the upper stratosphere and lower mesosphere. Compared to the observations, the Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (WACCM‐D) simulates somewhat lower O3levels before the event but captures well the relative ozone depletion. The largest depletion is seen on November 6th, after the Geostationary Operational Environment Satellite observed the peak proton fluxes. On this day, the O3depletion was observed and simulated from the pole to 55°S geographic latitude. The daily polar cap (poleward of 60°S geographic latitude) averaged O3profiles show a maximum depletion of 16.6 ± 2.2% at 1 hPa and 18.8 ± 3.3% at 1.5 hPa altitude, by OSIRIS and WACCM‐D, respectively. After the SPE, an enhancement in NOxis simulated by the results of the model within altitudes of the observation, which is well correlated with the observed and modeled O3depletion. Challenges related to the detection of SPE impact on O3in the summer hemisphere are discussed. We find that a careful analysis of simulation results can be essential when isolating the SPE impact from background variation. The 4th of November 2001 solar proton event (SPE) is one of the strongest events in the era of satellite observations. However, no direct satellite‐based observations have been reported for this particular event. Here, we have used observations from the Optical Spectrograph and Infrared Imaging Systems (OSIRIS) instrument, onboard the Odin satellite, to study the impact of this SPE on middle atmospheric ozone in the southern polar region. As OSIRIS is dependent on sunlight to measure ozone, we study the impact in the southern hemisphere during summertime. The observations are compared to a state‐of‐the‐art global climate model that can simulate the atmosphere with meteorological dynamics, coupled with chemistry and radiation such as solar UV and proton events. The results show a modest but detectable upper stratosphere and lower mesospheric ozone depletion in the south polar region. Comparison between observation and model reveals the model has lower ozone levels before the event but captures well the ozone depletion after the SPE. We analyze Optical Spectrograph and Infrared Imaging Systems/Odin observations from the southern summer pole and compare them to Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model simulationsA modest but detectable upper stratospheric and lower mesospheric O3depletion is seenThe simulated NOxenhancement shows good correlation with the observed and modeled O3depletion We analyze Optical Spectrograph and Infrared Imaging Systems/Odin observations from the southern summer pole and compare them to Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model simulations A modest but detectable upper stratospheric and lower mesospheric O3depletion is seen The simulated NOxenhancement shows good correlation with the observed and modeled O3depletion

ABSTRACTInsulin-Like Growth Factor 2 (IGF-2) is a peptide hormone essential for prenatal growth and development. IGF-2 exerts its mitogenic effects via Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 Receptor (IGF-1R), and is eliminated by binding to Insulin-Like Growth Receptor 2 (IGF-2R). IGF-2 is also negatively regulated by Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog (PTEN), a phosphatase mutated in various tumors. Not much is known about the interplay between these factors during human odontogenesis. In this study, expression patterns of IGF-2, IGF-1R, IGF-2R and PTEN were analyzed by double immunofluorescence in incisor human tooth germs during the foetal period of development between the 7thand 20thgestational week. Throughout the investigated period, IGF-2 was mostly expressed in enamel organ, whereas mild to moderate expression of PTEN could be seen in dental papilla and parts of enamel organ. Expression of IGF-1R was ubiquitous and displayed strong intensity throughout the entire enamel organ. In contrast, expression of IGF-2R had rather erratic pattern in enamel organ and dental papilla alike. Expression patterns of IGF-2, IGF-1R, IGF-2R and PTEN in highly proliferative cervical loops, as well as in differentiating pre-ameloblasts and pre-odontoblasts of cusp tip region during the early and late bell stages when enamel organ acquires definitive shape, indicate importance of these factors in crown morphogenesis of human incisor. Taken together, our data suggest the involvement of IGF-2, IGF-1R, IGF-2R and PTEN in temporo-spatial patterning of basic cellular processes (proliferation, differentiation) during normal tooth development. They are also relevant for improving knowledge of molecular basis of human odontogenesis.

Genetic factors cannot explain the recent rapid increase in the incidence of atopic diseases. The phenomenon has been explained by environmental factors, and there are data for and against the hypothesis that a decline in the pressure of microbial stimulation early in life could be behind the allergy epidemic. Changes have also occurred in maternity care, among them a rise in the caesarean section rate, which could diminish initial microbial exposure and thereby alter T helper 1 cell/T helper-2 cell development and affect the risk of developing atopy. In this study, we sought to establish whether mode of delivery does influence the development of atopic asthma. Finnish 1987 Medical Birth Register (n = 59,927 live births) information was linked between several national health registers to obtain information on asthma and mode of delivery in children registered. The data were adjusted for maternal age, previous deliveries, child's sex, and birth size. Atopy was evaluated in the second study (Turku Birth Cohort), which involved 219 children born by vaginal delivery (n = 106) or caesarean section (n = 113); history of atopic symptoms was established by questionnaire and a clinical examination was conducted, including skin prick testing and determination of total and allergen-specific IgE in serum. The register study showed the cumulative incidence of asthma at the age of seven to be significantly higher in children born by caesarean section (4.2%) than in those vaginally delivered (3.3%), the adjusted odds ratio (OR) for confounding variables being 1.21 (1.08–1.36), p < 0.01. In the second study, significantly more positive allergy tests were reported in questionnaires in the caesarean (22%) than in the vaginal delivery group (11%), OR 2.22 (1.06–4.64), p < 0.01, and a trend toward more positive skin prick reactions was documented at clinical examination; 41%versus 29%, OR 1.31 (0.65–2.65), p = 0.11. In conclusion, these results suggest that caesarean section delivery may be associated with an increased prevalence of atopic asthma.

Radio waves provide a useful diagnostic tool to investigate the properties of the ionosphere because the ionosphere affects the transmission and properties of high frequency (HF) electromagnetic waves. We have conducted a transionospheric HF‐propagation research campaign with a nanosatellite on a low‐Earth polar orbit and the EISCAT HF transmitter facility in Tromsø, Norway, in December 2020. In the active measurement, the EISCAT HF facility transmitted sinusoidal 7.953 MHz signal which was received with the High frEquency rAdio spectRomEteR (HEARER) onboard 1 Unit (size: 10 × 10 × 10 cm) Suomi 100 space weather nanosatellite. Data analysis showed that the EISCAT HF signal was detected with the satellite's radio spectrometer when the satellite was the closest to the heater along its orbit. Part of the observed variations seen in the signal was identified to be related to the heater's antenna pattern and to the transmitted pulse shapes. Other observed variations can be related to the spatial and temporal variations of the ionosphere and its different responses to the used transmission frequencies and to the transmitted O‐ and X‐wave modes. Some trends in the observed signal may also be associated to changes in the properties of ionospheric plasma resulting from the heater's electromagnetic wave energy. This paper is, to authors' best knowledge, the first observation of this kind of “self‐absorption” measured from the transionospheric signal path from a powerful radio source on the ground to the satellite‐borne receiver. Active radar‐satellite transionospheric measurements in the high frequency (HF) range with a CubeSat‐size satellite have been performedA radio spectrometer onboard the Suomi 100 CubeSat detected a clear signal transmitted by the EISCAT HF heaterThe properties of ionospheric plasma were found to be affected by the energy of the transmitted heater signal Active radar‐satellite transionospheric measurements in the high frequency (HF) range with a CubeSat‐size satellite have been performed A radio spectrometer onboard the Suomi 100 CubeSat detected a clear signal transmitted by the EISCAT HF heater The properties of ionospheric plasma were found to be affected by the energy of the transmitted heater signal

We report interannual variations of the correlation between the reflectivity of polar mesospheric summer echoes (PMSEs) and solar wind parameters (speed and dynamic pressure), and AEindex as a proxy of geomagnetic disturbances, and cosmic noise absorption (CNA) in the declining phase (2001–2008) of solar cycle 23. PMSEs are observed by 52 MHz VHF radar measurements at Esrange (67.8°N, 20.4°E), Sweden. In approaching the solar minimum years, high‐speed solar wind streams emanate from frequently emerging coronal holes, leading to 7, 9, and 13.5 day periodicities in their arrival at Earth. Periodicities of 7 and/or 9 days are found in PMSE reflectivity in 2005–2006 and 2008. Periodicity‐resolved correlations at 7 and 9 days of both Dregion ionization observed by cosmic noise absorption (CNA) and PMSE with solar wind speed and AEindex vary from year to year but generally increase as solar minimum is approached. PMSEs have a higher periodicity‐resolved correlation with AEindex than the solar wind speed. In addition, cross correlation of PMSE reflectivity with AEindex is mostly higher than with CNA in solar minimum years (2005–2008). This can signify that high‐speed solar wind stream‐induced high‐energy particles possibly have strong influence on CNA, but not as much as on PMSE, especially for the years of significant periodicities occurring. PMSE periodicities of 7 and 9 days characterize solar minimum yearsCIR/HSS‐driven geomagnetic disturbances induce strong Dregion ionizationPMSE is sensitive to the impact of CIR/HSS‐driven geomagnetic disturbances

During disturbed geomagnetic conditions, the energetic particles in the inner magnetosphere are known to undergo precipitation loss due to interaction with various plasma waves. This study, investigates the energetic particle precipitation events statistically using coordinate observations from the ground riometer network and the inner‐magnetospheric satellite mission, Arase. We have compared cosmic noise absorption (CNA) data obtained from the Finnish ground riometer network located in the auroral/sub‐auroral latitudes with the comprehensive data set of omnidirectional electron/proton flux and plasma waves in ELF/VLF frequency range from the Arase satellite during the overpass intervals. The study period includes one and a half years of data between March 2017 and September 2018 covering Arase conjunctions with the riometer stations from all magnetic local time sectors. The relation between the plasma flux/waves observed at the satellite with the riometer absorptions are investigated statistically for CNA (absorption >0.5 dB) and non‐CNA (absorption <0.5 dB) cases separately. During CNA events, Arase observed elevated electron flux in the medium energy range (2–100 keV), and plasma wave activity in the whistler‐mode frequency range (0.5–3 kHz) of the spectra. Our study provides an estimate of the statistical dependence of the electron flux and plasma wave observations at Arase with the ground reality of actual precipitation. Arase omnidirectional electron flux and plasma wave data are investigated statistically in conjunction with the Finnish riometer networkCNA events associate with Arase electron flux in the energy range >a few keV and plasma waves in 0.5–3 kHz at the ELF/VLF frequency rangeStudy suggests that whistler mode chorus waves are the major driver for EEP responsible for the observed CNA Arase omnidirectional electron flux and plasma wave data are investigated statistically in conjunction with the Finnish riometer network CNA events associate with Arase electron flux in the energy range >a few keV and plasma waves in 0.5–3 kHz at the ELF/VLF frequency range Study suggests that whistler mode chorus waves are the major driver for EEP responsible for the observed CNA

The first implementation of the so‐called spectral riometertechnique for the ionospheric electron density profile estimation is presented. In contrast to the traditional riometer operating at a single frequency, this experiment monitors the cosmic radio noise at 244 frequencies, ranging between 10 and 80 MHz, by using the new Kilpisjärvi Atmospheric Imaging Receiver Array radio telescope. The received power at each time and frequency is compared to the corresponding quiet‐day value, resulting in the cosmic radio noise absorption spectrum as a measurement of ionization in the ionosphere. In this study, the observed absorption spectrum is used to invert the corresponding electron density profile by applying a simple parameterized electron precipitation model. By comparing the inverted electron density profiles to a simultaneous and nearly colocated European Incoherent Scatter VHF radar measurement on 13–14 November 2012, we show that the spectral riometry approach is capable of producing realistic electron density profiles under conditions of substorm‐related electron precipitation. Spectral riometer measurement is introduced and implemented for the first timeA novel inversion of the ionospheric electron density profile is presentedA good general agreement with the EISCAT reference data is found

Cancer cells hijack developmental growth mechanisms but whether tissue morphogenesis and architecture modify tumorigenesis is unknown. Here, we characterized a new mouse model of sporadic thyroid carcinogenesis based on inducible expression of BRAF carrying a Val600 Glu (V600E) point mutation (BRAFV600E) from the thyroglobulin promoter (TgCreERT2). Spontaneous activation of this Braf-mutant allele due to leaky activity of the Cre recombinase revealed that intrinsic properties of thyroid follicles determined BRAF-mutant cell fate. Papillary thyroid carcinomas developed multicentrically within a normal microenvironment. Each tumor originated from a single follicle that provided a confined space for growth of a distinct tumor phenotype. Lineage tracing revealed oligoclonal tumor development in infancy and early selection of BRAFV600E kinase inhibitor-resistant clones. Somatic mutations were few, non-recurrent and limited to advanced tumors. Female mice developed larger tumors than males, reproducing the gender difference of human thyroid cancer. These data indicate that BRAFV600E-induced tumorigenesis is spatiotemporally regulated depending on the maturity and heterogeneity of follicles. Moreover, thyroid tissue organization seems to determine whether a BRAF-mutant lineage becomes a cancerized lineage. The TgCreERT2;BrafCA/+ sporadic thyroid cancer mouse model provides a new tool to evaluate drug therapy at different stages of tumor evolution. This article has an associated First Person interview with the first author of the paper.

A number of physically based models are combined in order to predict microstructure development during hot deformation. The models treat average values for the generation and recovery of vacancies and dislocations, recrystallization and grain growth and the dissolution and precipitation of second phase particles. The models are applied to a number of laboratory experiments made on 304 austenitic stainless steel and the model parameters are adjusted from those used for low alloyed steel mainly in order to obtain the right kinetics for the influence of solute drag on climb of dislocations and on grain growth. The thermodynamic data are obtained using Thermo-Calc© to create solubility products for the possible secondary phases. One case of wire rolling has been analyzed mainly concerning the evolution of recrystallization and grain size. The time, temperature and strain history has been derived using process information. The models are shown to give a fair description of the microstructure development during hot working of the studied austenitic stainless steel.

The G-protein-coupled receptor GPR109A (HM74A/PUMA-G) has recently been shown to function as a receptor for nicotinic acid (niacin) and to mediate its antilipolytic effects. Nicotinic acid is able to strongly raise plasma levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, a property that distinguishes nicotinic acid from other lipid-lowering drugs. To investigate the structural determinants of GPR109A ligand binding, we performed site-directed mutagenesis of putative ligand binding residues combined with generation of chimeric receptors consisting of GPR109A and its close relative GPR109B, which does not bind nicotinic acid. We could identify Asn86/Trp91 [transmembrane helix (TMH) 2/extracellular loop (ECL) 1], Arg111 (TMH3), Ser178 (ECL2), Phe276 (TMH7), and Tyr284 (TMH7) as amino acid residues critical for binding of nicotinic acid. Together with data from molecular modeling studies, our data suggest that the ligand binding pocket for nicotinic acid of GPR109A is distinct from that of most other group A receptors. Although Arg111 at TMH3 serves as the basic anchor point for the carboxylate ligands, the ring system of nicotinic acid is embedded between Trp91 at the junction TMH2/ECL1 and Phe276/Tyr284 at TMH7. The heterocyclic ring is also bound to Ser178 at ECL2 via an H-bond. These data will facilitate the design of new antidyslipidemic drugs acting via GPR109A.

ABSTRACTThe Finnish HPV Family Study is a prospective cohort study assessing the dynamics of human papillomavirus (HPV) transmission between parents and infant. Serial genital and oral scrapings from 76 families, including mother, father, and infant, and semen samples were collected over 2 years of follow-up, analyzed by nested PCR, and confirmed by hybridization with 12 high-risk (HR) HPV types. The most common HPV profile was HR HPV in all family members (29%), followed by HPV-positive mother-infant pairs (26%). HPV-positive father-infant pairs were less frequent (11%), and in six (8%) families, only the infant was HR HPV positive. The prevalence of genital HR HPV in the parents ranged from 13 to 25%, and that of oral HPV ranged from 8 to 34%. In the infants, HPV DNA was detected in 15% of the genital and 10% of the oral samples at birth, reaching peaks of 18 and 21%, respectively, at 6 months, and declining to 10% at 24 months. Persistent HPV in the mother was a risk factor for oral HPV in the infant (odds ratio [OR], 5.69; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 1.5 to 21.3), while oral HPV in the mother at 6 months was a risk factor for genital HR HPV (OR, 6.38; 95% CI, 1.15 to 35.32). No such independent risk could be attributed to subclinical HPV in the father. Persistent maternal cervical HPV and subclinical oral HPV affect the risk of infant HPV. The age of 6 months is a critical point for the infant to acquire or be free of HR HPV DNA.

The presence of a diurnal variation in meteor activity is well established. The sporadic meteor count rates are higher on the local dawn side and lower on the local dusk side. This phenomenon is caused by the Earth’s orbital motion and rotation. Meteor radar measurements have been compared from Esrange, Kiruna, Sweden, at 68° N, from Juliusruh, Germany, at 55° N, and from Ascension Island, at 8° S, to investigate how the diurnal variation depends on season at different latitudes. Data have been used from vernal and autumnal equinoxes and summer and winter solstices to locate the largest seasonal differences.

We present observations and preliminary results from a meteor experiment carried out with the 224 MHz EISCAT VHF radar in Tromsø, Norway, which was run for 6 h on November 26, 2003. The data set contains echoes with peculiar pulsations in received power in the frequency range 20–200 Hz, limited by instrumental parameters. The process causing the echo power pulsations has not yet been identified. Plasma effects are the most likely cause, a possible mechanism is for instance asymmetrical dust grains in rotation causing a modulation of the ionization rate.

To examine whether cerebral blood flow variables during the first critical day of life can predict the 1-yr neurologic outcome in ventilated and nonventilated preterm infants.

Neonatal meconium aspiration often produces severe respiratory distress due to an inflammatory pulmonary injury, but the extension of this damaging reaction to the noncontaminated lung regions is still uncertain. To investigate the presence of generalized pulmonary inflammatory response, 31 anesthetized and ventilated neonatal piglets (1–3 d) were studied. Meconium (n16) or saline (n15) was instilled unilaterally into the right lung, and analysis of the lung tissue or bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid from both lungs was performed after 12 h. Meconium increased the wet/dry weight ratio, histologic tissue injury score and tissue myeloperoxidase activity as well as BAL fluid total cell count in the contaminated lung. Tumor necrosis factor-alfa concentrations in BAL fluid did not however differ significantly. Furthermore, in the meconium-instilled lungs the tissue and lavage fluid catalytic activity of phospholipase A2(PLA2) and tissue PLA2group-I and group-II concentrations were significantly elevated. Although BAL fluid catalytic activity of PLA2was moderately increased also in the meconium noninstilled lung, significant inflammatory injury in this lung was absent. The results thus indicate that meconium aspiration induces severe local inflammation and lung injury, but significant generalized pulmonary inflammatory damage in the pathogenesis of meconium aspiration syndrome is unlikely.

Meconium aspiration and birth asphyxia are both separately connected to significant pulmonary and systemic hemodynamic changes in newborns, but, although these insults frequently coexist, their combined effects on the neonatal circulation are still controversial. To determine the pulmonary and systemic circulatory changes induced by pulmonary meconium contamination with concurrent asphyxia, 41 anesthetized and ventilated newborn piglets (10–12 d) were studied for 6 h. Eleven piglets were instilled with a bolus of human meconium intratracheally, and 10 piglets had meconium instillation with immediate induction of an asphyxic insult. Eight piglets had only asphyxia and 12 ventilated piglets served as controls. Meconium instillation (with and without asphyxia) resulted in a sustained decrease in the oxygenation, which remained, however, on the control level in the asphyxic group. Although meconium insufflation (with and without asphyxia) increased pulmonary artery pressure and vascular resistance progressively during the study period, the meconium-induced hypertensive effect was actually diminished by additional asphyxia. Asphyxia alone did not have any effect on these pulmonary hemodynamic parameters. On the other hand, whereas systemic arterial pressure and vascular resistance remained on the control level after meconium instillation alone, asphyxia (with and without pulmonary meconium insult) resulted in a sustained fall in systemic pressure already by 4 h. Our data thus indicate that although the coexisting asphyxia seems to moderate the meconium aspiration-induced pulmonary hypertensive response, this additional asphyxic insult does not affect the associated hypoxemia, but rather significantly exacerbates systemic hypotension.

Background: Although citalopram has gained wide acceptance in the treatment of depression and anxiety disorders, its use during pregnancy and lactation has been poorly characterized. The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of citalopram in relation to concentrations of citalopram and its metabolites during pregnancy and lactation.Methods: Eleven mothers taking citalopram and their infants were enrolled in the study, and a control group of 10 women who were not taking medication were prospectively matched for confounding obstetric characteristics at the time of delivery. Plasma and breast milk samples were collected from mother/infant pairs during pregnancy, at delivery, and for up to 2 months after delivery. Trough plasma and breast milk concentrations of citalopram, desmethylcitalopram, and didesmethylcitalopram were measured by HPLC. The pregnancy outcome was recorded, and the neurodevelopment of children was monitored for up to 1year.Results: Although the citalopram dose of 20 mg to 40 mg once daily resulted in low maternal trough plasma concentrations (range, 46-214 nmol/L) and metabolites during pregnancy, only one subject required an increase of daily dose. The mean didesmethylcitalopram-desmethylcitalopram metabolic ratio was significantly higher during pregnancy (54%, P < .001) than at 2 months after delivery, indicating induction of cytochromeP450 (CYP) 2D6 during pregnancy. At delivery, the trough plasma citalopram, desmethylcitalopram, and didesmethylcitalopram concentrations in the infants were 64%, 66%, and 68% ofthe maternal concentrations, respectively. The citalopram and metabolite concentrations in the milk were 2- to 3-fold higher compared with maternal plasma concentrations, but theinfant citalopram and metabolite plasma concentrations were very low or undetectable. Thedelivery outcome and the neurodevelopment of all infants up to the age of 1 year were normal.Conclusion: Even though the sample size was limited, results from this prospective clinical trial suggest uncomplicated pregnancy outcome in mothers using citalopram during pregnancy and minimal exposure of the infants to citalopram during lactation. However, maternal therapeutic drug monitoring of citalopram should be recommended to minimize fetal exposure.

Objective: The aim of the study was to gain knowledge about contraceptive use, reproductive risk-taking and sexuality in Swedish women seeking abortion and their partners. Methods: Two hundred and eleven women and 75 men answered a questionnaire before the abortion. The data have been divided into six subgroups: women with and without previous experience of abortion, single women and women with a partner relationship, and women whose partner participated in the study and the male partners. Results: The main findings showed that there are more similarities than differences between the subgroups. Overall, there were no differences regarding use of contraceptives, sexual life and psychosocial characteristics. However, women with previous abortion experience were found to be older, had longer partner relationships and more often had children. Some gender differences were also found, i.e. women favored coitus-dependent contraceptives to a larger extent and took more responsibility for preventing unwanted pregnancies. At the time of conception, half the participants had not used any contraceptive methods and one-fifth had relied on 'natural family planning'. The most common reasons for not using contraceptives were related to risk-taking and/or to strong sexual desire. Twelve per cent of the women had felt pressure/threat from their partner in connection with the conception. Conclusion: In efforts to prevent undesired pregnancies, this study highlights the need to incorporate a gender perspective both in communication about risk-taking and in counselling about contraceptives.

Background:Improved hygiene has altered early microbial exposure by reducing childhood infections, which has been suggested as a cause for the continuously rising prevalence of atopic diseases. On the basis of both intensity and timing of stimulus, it has been hypothesized that exposure to commensal microflora may represent another key protective modulator of immunity against atopy and subsequent atopic diseases. Objective:We sought to investigate whether differences in early gut microflora precede the later development of atopic sensitization. Methods:Intestinal microflora from 76 infants at high risk of atopic diseases were analyzed at 3 weeks and 3 months of age by using conventional bacterial cultivation and 2 culture-independent methods, gas-liquid chromatography of bacterial cellular fatty acids and quantitative fluorescence in situ hybridization of bacterial cells. Infants evincing at least one positive skin prick reaction at 12 months were grouped as atopic subjects, and those without positive reactions were grouped as nonatopic subjects. Results:Atopic sensitization was observed in 22 (29%) of 76 children. At 3 weeks, the bacterial cellular fatty acid profile in fecal samples differed significantly between infants in whom atopy was and was not developing (P= .005). By using fluorescence in situ hydridization, atopic subjects had more clostridia (geometric mean [95% confidence interval]: 9.3 × 107[3.8-22.9 × 107] vs 3.3 × 107[1.8-6.1 × 107], P= .04) and tended to have fewer bifidobacteria (1.8 × 109[0.4-7.6 × 109] vs 6.1 × 109[2.5-14.6 × 109], P= .11) in their stools than nonatopic subjects, resulting in a reduced ratio of bifidobacteria to clostridia (P= .03). The differences were not detected by bacterial cultivation. Conclusion:Differences in the neonatal gut microflora precede the development of atopy, suggesting a crucial role of the balance of indigenous intestinal bacteria for the maturation of human immunity to a nonatopic mode. (J Allergy Clin Immunol 2001;107:129-34.)