bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Systemic Inflammation after Uniport, Multiport, or Hybrid VATS Lobectomy for Lung Cancer
Authors: Tacconi Federico , Carlea Federica , La Rocca Eleonora , Vanni Gianluca , Ambrogi Vincenzo
Published: August 2021

Background Different video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) approaches can be adopted to perform lobectomy for non-small cell lung cancer. Given the hypothetical link existing between postoperative inflammation and long-term outcomes, we compared the dynamics of systemic inflammation markers after VATS lobectomy performed with uniportal access (UNIVATS), multiportal access (MVATS), or hybrid approach (minimally invasive hybrid open surgery, MIHOS).

Methods Peripheral blood-derived inflammation markers (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte [NTL] ratio, platelet-to-lymphocyte [PTL] ratio, and systemic immune-inflammation index [SII]) were measured preoperatively and until postoperative day 5 in 109 patients undergoing UNIVATS, MVATS, or MIHOS lobectomy. Differences were compared through repeated-measure analysis of variance, before and after 1:1:1 propensity score matching. Time-to-event analysis was also done by measuring time to NTL normalization, based on the reliability change index for each patient.

Results After UNIVATS, there was a faster decrease in NTL ratio (p = 0.015) and SII (p = 0.019) compared with other approaches. MVATS exhibited more pronounced PTL rebound (p = 0.011). However, all these differences disappeared in matched analysis. After MIHOS, NTL ratio normalization took longer (mean difference: 0.7 ± 0.2 days, p = 0.047), yet MIHOS was not independently associated with slower normalization at Cox's regression analysis (p = 0.255, odds ratio: 1.6, confidence interval: 0.7–4.0). Furthermore, surgical access was not associated with cumulative postoperative morbidity, nor was it with incidence of postoperative pneumonia.

Conclusion In this study, different VATS approaches resulted into unsubstantial differences in postoperative systemic inflammatory response, after adjusting for confounders. The majority of patients returned back to preoperative values by postoperative day 5 independently on the adopted surgical access. Further studies are needed to elaborate whether these small differences may still be relevant to patient management.
Novel Pathogenic DNAH5 Variants in Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia: Association with Visceral Heterotaxia and Neonatal Cholestasis
Authors: Lin Hong T. , Gupta Anita , Bove Kevin E. , Szabo Sara , Xu Fang , Krentz Anthony , Shillington Amelle L.
Published: August 2021

The dynein axonemal heavy chain 5 gene codes for a subunit of axonemal dynein necessary for ciliary motor function. Though research has elucidated the consequences of some variants in this gene, it is still unclear whether many variants in the DNAH5 locus are benign or pathogenic due to the rarity of primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD, of which Kartagener's syndrome is a subset). Here, we introduce the case of an infant boy presenting with the classical findings of PCD along with visceral heterotaxia and neonatal cholestasis. Genetic testing indicated that the patient is a compound heterozygote with a pathogenic c.8498G > A (known as pathogenic) on the maternally derived allele and two variants of uncertain significance, c.1206T > A and c.7800T > G, on the paternally derived allele. As PCD is autosomal recessive, we conclude that one, or both, of these paternally derived variants are pathogenic. To our knowledge, this is the first time that the clinical implications of c.1206T > A (p.Asn402Lys) and c.7800T > G (p.Ile2600Met) are documented. Furthermore, we use this case as an example to recommend clinicians to assess for PCD and laterality defects when presented with severe infantile cholestasis. While the association of cholestasis with PCD is relatively uncommon, PCD is a risk factor for increased prevalence of biliary atresia and infections, both of which are known causes of cholestasis in early infancy.
Perovskite/silicon tandem photovoltaics: Technological disruption without business disruption
Authors: Kamaraki Christina , Klug Matthew T. , Green Thomas , Miranda Perez Laura , Case Christopher
Published: August 2021

Meeting the ambitious challenge of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and holding the average increase in global temperature below 1.5 °C necessitate the upscaling of readily available renewable energy sources, especially solar photovoltaics. Since the window of time to achieve this goal is closing fast, it is of paramount importance that we accelerate the decarbonization of the global energy system by increasing the power output of solar cells through advancing their power conversion efficiencies toward and beyond the Shockley–Queisser limit. In this Perspective, we describe how the integration of perovskites into the well-established silicon production infrastructure to form perovskite/silicon tandem photovoltaics can raise the rate of solar deployment. We present a holistic analysis of the technology from different perspectives, such as materials science, manufacturing, sustainability, and business, which highlights how the pairing of perovskite and silicon is advantageous at many different levels of consideration. Altogether, perovskite/silicon tandems deliver a technological disruption in efficiency while maintaining compatibility with the present photovoltaics industry, making it the fastest route to enhance the silicon market and rapidly address climate change.
Analysis for action degree and influence factors of harmonic interaction in multi-wind farms
Authors: Shi Jinhui , Chen Wei , Pei Xiping , Wei Zhanhong , Sun Xuebo
Published: August 2021

With the increasing proportion of wind power in the power system, a significant threat is posed to the safe and stable operation of regional power grids and the consumption of the new energy by the harmonic interaction effects among wind farms. Aimed at the problem of mechanism for the harmonic interaction between wind farms and the degree of influence, an aggregation equivalence method of wind farms in harmonic power loss is proposed, where the complexity of wind farm equivalence calculation is reduced. Based on this, a harmonic impedance model of multiple wind farms grid-connected system is established, and the mechanism of harmonic interaction influence among the wind farms is revealed. The definition and calculation method of harmonic current interaction factor is presented, where the relationship between the harmonic current interaction and the potential factors, i.e., the coupling impedance, the dynamic reactive power compensation devices, and the number of wind turbines connected to the grid among multiple wind farms, is quantitatively analyzed. Finally, a typical wind farm of new energy base in Northwest China is used as a toy example to verify the effectiveness of the harmonic current interaction factor in the characterization of the interaction strength within multiple wind farms.
Numerical investigation of the directional control of electron density and gas temperature in atmospheric pressure dielectric barrier discharge by using low- and high-frequency coupling modulation
Authors: Zhang Zhonglin , Nie Qiuyue , Wang Xiaogang , Zeng Jiacheng
Published: August 2021

Dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs) are commonly used as efficient sources of large volume diffuse plasmas with moderate temperature and plenty of reactive particles, but the synergistic linkage of some key plasma parameters in single frequency driven systems sometimes limits their application fields and accessible operating ranges. The discrete control of certain key plasma parameters by multi-frequency, i.e., dual frequency (DF), voltage waveform excitations is of increasing requirement and importance for both application-focused and fundamental studies on DBD plasma. In this paper, a significant nonlinear coupling modulation of the discharge evolution process and characteristics caused by the HF oscillation of the high-frequency component in the DF DBD system is observed and investigated, which provides a simple and efficient approach to realize the independent control of the target key plasma parameters such as gas temperature and electron density. Based on a one-dimensional fluid model with semi-kinetics treatment, numerical studies of the tiny high frequency component on the properties modulation of atmospheric DF DBD are reported. The driving voltage waveform is characterized by a 50 kHz fundamental sinusoidal low-frequency signal superimposing a small amount of 2 MHz high-frequency signal [HF component changing from 0 to 100 V with a low-frequency (LF) component fixed at 1 kV as a constant], and the effects of the high-frequency voltage amplitude and phase shift on the discharge characteristics, sheath dynamics, impact ionization of electrons, and key plasma parameters are investigated. Particularly, the effects of phase modulation on the discharge evolution and characteristics for DF DBDs are discussed and revealed. The results have demonstrated that a slight and proper parameter variation of the high-frequency oscillation can provide a high electron seed density, and trap electrons within the sheath, thus achieving required plasma parameters. The sheath dynamics can be effectively modulated by tuning the phase shift, which enables a possible alternative approach to optimize the independent control of the key plasma parameters under atmospheric pressure.
On the compressible biglobal stability of the mean flow motion in porous tubes
Authors: Majdalani Joseph , Ramesh Kumar Tharikaa , Akiki Michel
Published: August 2021

In this work, a compressible biglobal stability approach is used to investigate the growth characteristics of hydrodynamic and vorticoacoustic waves in porous tubes with uniform wall injection. The retention of compressibility effects enables us to construct a physics-based formulation that is capable of predicting both hydrodynamic and vorticoacoustic wave motions simultaneously with no need for mode decomposition. At first, we show that, in the absence of a mean flow, the stability framework reproduces traditional Helmholtz frequencies and modal shapes. This confirms the embedment of the wave equation within the compressible Navier–Stokes framework. We then proceed to simulate the idealized motion in solid rocket motors, often modeled as porous tubes, where a mean flow expression is available. Specifically, using the compressible Taylor–Culick profile as a base flow, our solver produces a comprehensive frequency spectrum that returns both hydrodynamic and vorticoacoustic modes in one swoop with the added benefit of pinpointing the flow-induced longitudinal, radial, and mixed frequencies at user-prescribed tangential modes. Moreover, we find that increasing the flow Mach number leads to a slight reduction in the vorticoacoustic frequencies relative to their strictly acoustic counterparts. Similar results are obtained while increasing the Reynolds number and aspect ratio, thus affirming the origin of frequency shifts often observed in motor firings. Finally, the vorticoacoustic velocity fluctuations are shown to resemble those obtained asymptotically. Particularly, their depths of penetration appear to be controlled by the penetration number, a dimensionless parameter that combines the effects of sidewall injection, oscillatory frequency, viscosity, and chamber radius.
Optical emission of shocked magnesium oxide single crystals: Heat-conduction and orientation effects
Authors: Liu Qiancheng , Zhao Feng , Zhou Xianming
Published: August 2021

To investigate light emission properties of shocked high-conductivity single crystals during plastic deformation, [100] and [110] magnesium oxide (MgO) single crystals are shock-compressed up to 64 GPa via a planar impact. [111] gadolinium–gallium garnet (GGG) and [100] Y-stabilized zirconate (YSZ) single crystals, respectively, with intermediate and low conductivities are also examined for comparison. Emission spectral radiance and velocity histories are simultaneously measured with a fast, high-sensitivity pyrometer and a Doppler pin system. While velocity histories of [100] MgO, [111] GGG, and [100] YSZ show typical two-wave structures at elastic–plastic transition, abnormal three-wave structures are observed for [110] MgO, consistent with literature reports. Correspondingly, spectral radiance histories of [100] MgO, [111] GGG, and [100] YSZ under each tested stress demonstrate a typical “single-wave” structure, while a “two-wave” structure is observed for [110] MgO shocked to 33–37 GPa. The peak intensities of spectral radiance for both [100] and [110] MgO are much lower than those of GGG and YSZ shocked to similar plastic strains as a result of different heat conductivities. A model, taking into account heat conduction from a shear band into its surrounding bulk areas and two-zone emission, is thus developed and describes well the measurements. Our observations make a concrete connection between shear banding and localized heating/cooling as proposed previously.
Fano resonances for high performance sensing in an asymmetric resonator based on hybrid graphene/dielectric metasurfaces
Authors: Cao Shuhua , Wang Qi , Gao Xufeng , Zhang Shijie , Hong Ruijin , Zhang Dawei
Published: August 2021

Improving the performance and sensitivity of metallic sensors is challenging because of the Ohmic loss that occurs for traditional metallic materials. In this work, we optimized a refractive index sensor consisting of graphene and a periodic array of asymmetric Si nanorod units. The sensor was formed by etching an asymmetric pair of nanorods and introducing gaps in the dielectric resonant nanostructures. This confined a large portion of electromagnetic energy into nanoscale hot spots within the gaps. The sensitivity of the sensor increased from 430 to 595 nm/RIU, and the figure of merit increased nearly fivefold from 956 to 4577 RIU−1. The results prove that the gapped dielectric metasurface served as an ideal platform for enhancing the interaction between light and the surrounding medium, making it a promising candidate for high-performance optical sensors.
Study on the influence of current on 500 kV AC marine cable based on numerical simulation
Authors: Huang Wuhao , Li Naiyi , Zhang Zhenpeng , Hu Hao , Huang Xiaoming , Guo Feng
Published: August 2021

Due to the extremely complex changes in marine environmental factors and frequent changes in the actual load current of the submarine cable, it is necessary to analyze and study the mechanical and thermal characteristics of the high-voltage submarine cable system under different conditions to ensure the reliability of the power transmission performance of the submarine cable. In this paper, the finite element model is adopted to study the physical parameters of the submarine cable, taking burial depth, ambient temperature, and current as dependent variables. Some of the parameters related to the environment refer to the ocean currents near Zhoushan, and the model bases on the actual current and temperature data of the 500 kV AC submarine cable. The results show that in order to increase the load capacity of the submarine cable and reduce the thermal strain of the submarine cable, the heat dissipation of the submarine current should be increased, so the buried depth should be appropriately reduced. After the ambient temperature rises, in order to reduce the loss of electric energy and cable deformation, the carrying current should be reduced moderately. The research carried out a simulation based on the actual physical parameters of each layer of the submarine cable and predicted the changes in the submarine cable in Zhoushan with different current carrying capacity in different seasons, so it has reference significance in actual engineering applications.
Reciprocal antagonistic regulation of E3 ligases controls ACC synthase stability and responses to stress
Authors: Lee Han Yong , Park Hye Lin , Park Chanung , Chen Yi-Chun , Yoon Gyeong Mee
Published: August 2021

Significance

Protein homeostasis is critical for the proper growth and development of organisms. In ethylene biosynthesis, the protein abundance of ACC synthases (ACS), the rate-limiting enzymes in ethylene biosynthesis, is critical to control ethylene production and is regulated in part through crosstalk with other phytohormones. However, the underlying mechanism including regulatory components that integrate the crosstalk is poorly understood. This study identified a mechanism that employs the reciprocal degradation of two E3 ligase components to control the stability of ACS in a brassinosteroid and phosphoprotein-binding protein-dependent manner. The disruption of the reciprocal degradation between the E3 ligases compromises the survival of plants under carbon starvation. These findings have implications for understanding ethylene biosynthesis regulation, protein homeostasis, and its associated stress response.
Optical spectral weight, phase stiffness, and
T

c

bounds for trivial and topological flat band superconductors
Authors: Verma Nishchhal , Hazra Tamaghna , Randeria Mohit
Published: August 2021

Significance

Understanding superconductivity in flat bands is a problem of great interest in view of recent experiments in moiré materials. Electrons have no kinetic energy in flat bands, and, thus, transport of charge is entirely driven by interactions, making this a strong coupling problem, with additional complexity arising from the topology of the electronic states. We present exact analytical results that give insight into how the quantum geometry of the flat-band wavefunctions determines the interaction-induced transport and superconductivity. Our results also highlight important differences between topologically trivial and nontrivial flat bands.
Properties of the Rovelli–Smolin–DePietri volume operator in the spaces of monochromatic intertwiners
Authors: Kisielowski Marcin
Published: August 2021

We study some properties of the Rovelli–Smolin–DePietri volume operator in loop quantum gravity, which significantly simplify the diagonalization problem and shed some light on the pattern of degeneracy of the eigenstates. The operator is defined by its action in the spaces of tensor products

H

j

1

⊗
⋯
⊗

H

j

N

of the irreducible SU(2) representation spaces

H

j

i

,
i
=
1
,
…
,
N

, labelled with spins

j

i

∈

1

2

N

. We restrict to spaces of SU(2) invariant tensors (intertwiners) with all spins equal j
1 =⋯= j

N
= j. We call them spin j monochromatic intertwiners. Such spaces are important in the study of SU(2) gauge invariant states that are isotropic and can be applied to extract the cosmological sector of the theory. In the case of spin 1/2 we solve the eigenvalue problem completely: we show that the volume operator is proportional to identity and calculate the proportionality factor.
A molecular relay race: sequential first-passage events to the terminal reaction centre in a cascade of diffusion controlled processes
Authors: Grebenkov Denis S , Metzler Ralf , Oshanin Gleb
Published: August 2021

We consider a sequential cascade of molecular first-reaction events towards a terminal reaction centre in which each reaction step is controlled by diffusive motion of the particles. The model studied here represents a typical reaction setting encountered in diverse molecular biology systems, in which, e.g. a signal transduction proceeds via a series of consecutive ‘messengers’: the first messenger has to find its respective immobile target site triggering a launch of the second messenger, the second messenger seeks its own target site and provokes a launch of the third messenger and so on, resembling a relay race in human competitions. For such a molecular relay race taking place in infinite one-, two- and three-dimensional systems, we find exact expressions for the probability density function of the time instant of the terminal reaction event, conditioned on preceding successful reaction events on an ordered array of target sites. The obtained expressions pertain to the most general conditions: number of intermediate stages and the corresponding diffusion coefficients, the sizes of the target sites, the distances between them, as well as their reactivities are arbitrary.
Addendum: Refined bounds on MeV-scale thermal dark sectors from BBN and the CMB
Authors: Sabti Nashwan , Alvey James , Escudero Miguel , Fairbairn Malcolm , Blas Diego
Published: August 2021

Very recently, the LUNA collaboration has reported a new measurement of the d+p→^3He+γ reaction rate, which plays an important role in the prediction of the primordial deuterium abundance at the time of BBN. This new measurement has triggered a new set of global BBN analyses within the context of the Standard Model. In this addendum to https://doi.org/10.1088/1475-7516/2020/01/004JCAP 01 (2020) 004 (arXiv:1910.01649), we consider the implications of these new results for our constraints on MeV-scale dark sectors. Importantly, we find that our bounds in the BBN-only and Planck-only analyses are insensitive to these updates. Similarly, we find that our constraints derived using BBN and CMB data simultaneously are not significantly modified for neutrinophilic particles. The bounds on electrophilic dark sector states, however, can vary moderately when combining BBN and CMB observations. We present updated results for all the relevant light dark sector states, calculated using the rates obtained by the leading groups performing standard BBN analyses.
Observation of magnetoresistance in CrI3/graphene van derWaals heterostructures*
Authors: Niu Yu-Ting , Lu Xiao , Shi Zhong-Tai , Peng Bo
Published: August 2021

Two-dimensional ferromagnetic van der Waals (2D vdW) heterostructures have opened new avenues for creating artificial materials with unprecedented electrical and optical functions beyond the reach of isolated 2D atomic layered materials, and for manipulating spin degree of freedom at the limit of few atomic layers, which empower next-generation spintronic and memory devices. However, to date, the electronic properties of 2D ferromagnetic heterostructures still remain elusive. Here, we report an unambiguous magnetoresistance behavior in CrI3/graphene heterostructures, with a maximum magnetoresistance ratio of 2.8%. The magnetoresistance increases with increasing magnetic field, which leads to decreasing carrier densities through Lorentz force, and decreases with the increase of the bias voltage. This work highlights the feasibilities of applying two-dimensional ferromagnetic vdW heterostructures in spintronic and memory devices.
Shaping urbanization to achieve communities resilient to floods
Authors: Hemmati Mona , Mahmoud Hussam N , Ellingwood Bruce R , Crooks Andrew T
Published: August 2021

Flood risk is increasing in urban communities due to climate change and socioeconomic development. Socioeconomic development is a major cause of urban expansion in flood-prone regions, as it places more physical, economic, and social infrastructure at risk. Moreover, in light of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by the United Nations, it has become an international imperative to move toward sustainable cities. Current approaches to quantify this risk use scenario-based methods involving arbitrary projections of city growth. These methods seldom incorporate geographical, social, and economic factors associated with urbanization and cannot mimic city growth under various urban development plans. In this paper, we introduce a framework for understanding the interactions between urbanization and flood risk as an essential ingredient for flood risk management. This framework integrates an urban growth model with a hazard model to explore flood risk under various urban development scenarios. We then investigate the effectiveness of coupling nonstructural flood mitigation measures—in terms of urban planning policies and socioeconomic incentives—with urban growth processes to achieve sustainable and resilient communities. Using this framework, we can not only simulate urban expansion dynamics through time and its effect on flood risk but also model the growth of a region under various urban planning policies and assess the effectiveness of these measures in reducing flood risk. Our analysis reveals that while current urban development plans may put more people and assets at flood risk, the nonstructural strategies considered in this study mitigated the consequences of floods. Such a framework could be used to assist city planners and stakeholders in examining tradeoffs between costs and benefits of future land development in achieving sustainable and resilient cities.
Identification of strategies over tools for static code analysis
Authors: Stefanović Darko , Nikolić Danilo , Havzi Sara , Lolić Teodora , Dakić Dušanka
Published: August 2021

Static code analysis tools are being increasingly used to improve code quality. The source code’s quality is a key factor in any software product and requires constant inspection and supervision. Static code analysis is a valid way to infer the behavior of a program without executing it. Many tools allow static analysis in different frameworks, different programming languages, and detecting different defects in the source code. Different strategies of using static code analysis tools are often used, and these strategies are not classified. In this paper, an experiment was conducted on different tools and their use in relation to the standard code review cycle. The identified strategies for using static code analysis tools and the steps required to implement them are presented. When using the tool, users should choose one of the identified strategies to implement following the defined steps for successful implementation.
Synthesis and characterization of activated carbon derived from rubberwood sawdust by using KOH/KMnO4 as multiple function activation agents
Authors: Phainuphong S , Taweekun J , Theppaya T , Maliwan K
Published: August 2021

This research is focused on the effects of impregnation ratios using KOH/KMnO4 as multiple function activation agents on microporous of activated carbon. Rubberwood sawdust, the waste from wood processing industry, was used as a raw material in synthesis of activated carbon by chemical activation. The rubberwood sawdust was carbonized at 400 °C for 1 hour under an inert atmosphere to produce char. Chars were impregnated with different proportions of KOH and KMnO4. Impregnation time for each mixture proportion (Char: KOH: KMnO4) was 24 hours before activation for 3 hours at 800 °C. The surface area, pore volume, micropore volume, pore size distribution, porous structure, and adsorption isotherm were examined and considered as the properties of activated carbon. The results showed that the activated carbon with an impregnation ratio of 10:10:5, 10:30:0, and 10:30:5 have the surface area 750.89 m 2/g, 1574.39 m 2/g, and 1346.10 m 2/g, respectively. The pore volume and micropore volume were in the range between 0.3289-0.6405 cm 3/g and 0.1920-0.3533 cm 3/g. The average pore sizes were 1.75 nm, 1.63 nm, and 1.65 nm, respectively. These synthesized activated carbons were characterized as type I isotherm and microporous solids.
The Degradation of SA213-T22 steels Coated with Ni-based Alloy Containing WC-Co in Simulated Molten Salt Atmospheres
Authors: Thongyoug Penpisuth , Treewiriyakitja Paweena , Keereerakwattana Methawat , Tungtrongpairoj Jennarong
Published: August 2021

This work reveals the high-temperature oxidation resistance of WC-Co coated on SA213-T22 by High-Velocity Oxy-Fuel (HVOF) technique in simulated molten salt atmospheres and compare that with the uncoated Cr-containing steel. The corrosion behaviors of SA213-T22 coated and uncoated with WC-Co alloys were studied by immersion test under simulated molten salt atmospheres at 600 °C for 3 hours and investigated their corrosion current densities by electrochemical test. Scanning electron microscope equipped with EDS technique and X-ray diffraction were used to evaluate the surface morphology and phase constitution. The oxidation rate of the coated and uncoated steels was observed under simulated atmospheres at 750 °C for 120 hours before the immersion test. The mass gain scale increase with increasing the oxidation time and the oxidation rate of scale are limited by the WC-Co alloys coating layer, which acted as a protective layer. The low corrosion current density of the WC-Co self-fluxing coated steel after oxidation was shown 5 – 10 μA/cm 2 after the corrosion test in molten salt for 3 hours. After the immersion, the scale layer on the uncoated specimen was disappeared, but one-half of the oxidized coating layer on the coated specimen has remained.
The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Mathematics
Authors: Earl Richard , Nicholson James
Published: August 2021

Over 4,000 entries

This informative A to Z provides clear, jargon-free definitions of a wide variety of mathematical terms. Its articles cover both pure and applied mathematics and statistics, and include key theories, concepts, methods, programmes, people, and terminology.

For this sixth edition, around 800 new terms have been defined, expanding on the dictionary’s coverage of algebra, differential geometry, algebraic geometry, representation theory, and statistics. Among this new material are articles such as cardinal arithmetic, first fundamental form, Lagrange’s theorem, Navier-Stokes equations, potential, and splitting field. The existing entries have also been revised and updated to account for developments in the field.

Numerous supplementary features complement the text, including detailed appendices on basic algebra, areas and volumes, trigonometric formulae, and Roman numerals. Newly added to these sections is a historical timeline of significant mathematicians’ lives and the emergence of key theorems. There are also illustrations, graphs, and charts throughout the text, as well as useful web links to provide access to further reading.
Hantavirus Disease and COVID-19
Authors: Joyce Allison K , Oliver Tarrah T , Kofman Aaron D , Talker Donna L , Safaeian Shahrokh , Peker Barclift Deniz , Perricone Adam J , D’Andrea Shawn M , Whitesell Amy N , Yazzie Del , Guarner Jeannette , Saleki Mozafar , Ingall Glynnis B , Choi Mary J , Antone-Nez Ramona
Published: August 2021

Objectives

Navajo Nation is disproportionately affected by hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS), a severe respiratory disease that can quickly progress to respiratory failure and cardiogenic shock. The initial signs and symptoms of HCPS are indistinguishable from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, this distinction is critical, as the disease course differs greatly, with most patients with COVID-19 experiencing mild to moderate illness. We set out to determine if the evaluation of peripheral blood smears for five hematopathologic criteria previously identified as hallmarks of hantavirus infection, or “the hantavirus 5-point screen,” could distinguish between COVID-19 and HCPS.

Methods

The hantavirus 5-point screen was performed on peripheral blood smears from 139 patients positive for COVID-19 seeking treatment from Tséhootsooí Medical Center and two Emory University hospitals.

Results

Of these 139 individuals, 136 (98%) received a score of 3/5 or below, indicating low suspicion for HCPS. While thrombocytopenia, one of the key signs of HCPS, was seen in the patients with COVID-19, it was generally mild and remained stable on repeat specimens collected 12 to 24 hours later.

Conclusions

Given these findings, the 5-point screen remains a useful rapid screening tool for potential HCPS cases and may be useful to distinguish early HCPS from COVID-19 in HCPS endemic regions.
The Object of Jewish American Literary History
Authors: Franco Dean
Published: August 2021

This essay explores assumptions underwriting literary categorization, focusing on Jewish American literary history in particular (mostly), and considers the scalar logic that allows us to link the singular text, with all of its luminous possibility, with the particular world of a given literary category. The essay’s first section critiques major claims about Jewish American literary history made over the last 20 years by observing the persistently underexamined use of a metaphorical and metaphysical concept of identity, and then lays out problems with scaling up between select texts and the larger category of a given field of literature. Problems of scale in Jewish American literary history are highlighted by comparison with recent critiques of African American literary history. Scale itself harbors problems of commensurability insofar as scaling between a single object and a set to which the object belongs requires acts of comparison which leap over differences of kind, a problem explored in the essay’s second section through analogies with problems of commensurability in the discipline of physics. The third section locates those problems of commensurability in Nicole Krauss’s novel Forest Dark (2017) and reads that novel’s direct confrontation with literary history as exemplifying how literary scholars can foreground multiplicity and possibility, precisely through the foregrounding of their own situated practice as interested agents.

Rather than reproduce that figment by projecting a historically continuous and recognizable Jewishness across two centuries of literature, Jewish American literary studies should ally and coordinate itself with the field-questioning work occurring among Black and Latinx studies scholars who substantiate the salience of their field’s identity-based study, even as they depart from its historical formation.
The role of CpG island methylator phenotype in the clinical course of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yan Jun , Man Zhongsong , Gao Lu , Cai Lei , Lu Qian , Dong Jiahong
Published: August 2021

Motivation

Aberrant DNA methylation is strongly associated with heterogeneity in tumors. This study investigated the prognostic value of CpG island methylator phenotype in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Results

A total of 319 HCC samples with 21 121 CpG sites were included in this study and 215 disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS)-related CpG sites were identified. These CpG sites were divided into seven clusters by using consensus clustering method. Cluster 4, which constructed the prognostic prediction model as the seed cluster to evaluate survival risk for DFS and OS of HCC patients, had the lowest methylation level with the worse prognosis. The low-risk group patients had a significantly prolonged DFS and OS than the patients in the high-risk group (P = 0.008 and P < 0.001, respectively). A receiver operating characteristic curve results for predicting DFS and OS were 0.691 and 0.695, respectively. These results suggested that the CpG site methylation appears to be an informative prognostic biomarker in HCC. The CpG site methylation-related prognostic model may be an innovative insight to evaluate clinical outcomes for HCC patients.

Availability and implementation

The code of the analysis is available at https://www.bioconductor.org.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Escape behaviour varies with distance from safe refuge
Authors: Mcelroy Eric J , Mcbrayer Lance D
Published: August 2021

Locomotor performance and behaviour are important for escape from predators, yet the intersection of these strategies is poorly studied. Escape behaviour is context dependent, and optimal escape theory predicts that animals that are farther from a safe refuge will generally use faster running speeds but might choose to use more variable escape paths. We studied locomotor performance and behaviour of six-lined racerunner lizards (Aspidoscelis sexlineata) escaping on natural surface runways that were varied experimentally to be either 5 or 10 m from a safe refuge. On the 5 m runway, lizards usually escaped directly towards the refuge, attained a slower maximal running speed (3.2 m s−1) at ~3 m from the start, and reached the target refuge in most of the trials (80%). On the 10 m runway, lizards used more variable behaviour, including reversals and turns, attained a faster maximal running speed (3.7 m s−1) at ~6 m from the start, and reached the final refuge in only 43% of trials. Free-ranging racerunners were rarely > 5 m from their nearest refuge and used escape paths that were typically < 5 m. Our findings align with predictions from optimal escape theory, in that the perceived risk of a predator–prey encounter can drive adjustments in locomotor behaviour and performance. Additionally, we show that the escape behaviour of free-ranging lizards closely matches their escape behaviour and performance during controlled escape trials.
Uniqueness and global optimality of the maximum likelihood estimator for the generalized extreme value distribution
Authors: Zhang Likun , Shaby Benjamin A
Published: August 2021

The three-parameter generalized extreme value distribution arises from classical univariate extreme value theory, and is in common use for analysing the far tail of observed phenomena, yet important asymptotic properties of likelihood-based estimation under this standard model have not been established. In this paper we prove that the maximum likelihood estimator is global and unique. An interesting secondary result entails the uniform consistency of a class of limit relations in a tight neighbourhood of the true shape parameter.
Night shift work and breast cancer risk: a meta-analysis of observational epidemiological studies
Authors: Van Nhung Thi Hong , Hoang Tung , Myung Seung-Kwon
Published: August 2021

Previous observational epidemiological studies have reported inconsistently the association between night shift work (NSW) and the risk of breast cancer (BC). This study aimed to investigate those associations by using a meta-analysis of observational epidemiological studies. We searched PubMed and EMBASE using keywords related to this topic from inception till November 2020. The pooled effect sizes such as odds ratio (OR), hazard ratio (HR) or relative risk (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a random-effects model. In the meta-analysis of a total of 32 observational studies including 13 case–control studies, 4 nested case–control studies and 15 cohort studies, NSW significantly increased the risk of BC (OR/RR/HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.04–1.20; I2 = 72.4%). In the subgroup meta-analysis by type of study, NSW was also associated with the increased risk of BC in case–control studies (OR, 1.34; 95% CI, 1.17–1.53; I2 = 63.8%). However, no significant association was found in both nested case–control studies (OR, 1.14; 95% CI, 0.89–1.46; I2 = 65.8%) and cohort studies (RR/HR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.93–1.03; I2 = 25.3%). Besides, there was no significant association between NSW for over 20 years and the risk of BC (OR/RR/HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.95–1.11; I2 = 36.6%, n = 14). Given that cohort studies provide higher evidence than case–control studies, there is no association between NSW and the risk of BC.
A Longitudinal, Observational Study of Etiology and Long-Term Outcomes of Sepsis in Malawi Revealing the Key Role of Disseminated Tuberculosis
Authors: Lewis Joseph M , Mphasa Madlitso , Keyala Lucy , Banda Rachel , Smith Emma L , Duggan Jackie , Brooks Tim , Catton Matthew , Mallewa Jane , Katha Grace , Gordon Stephen B , Faragher Brian , Gordon Melita A , Rylance Jamie , Feasey Nicholas A
Published: August 2021

Background

Sepsis protocols in sub-Saharan Africa are typically extrapolated from high-income settings, yet sepsis in sub-Saharan Africa is likely caused by distinct pathogens and may require novel treatment strategies. Data to guide such strategies are lacking. We aimed to define causes and modifiable factors associated with sepsis outcomes in Blantyre, Malawi, in order to inform the design of treatment strategies tailored to sub-Saharan Africa.

Methods

We recruited 225 adults who met a sepsis case definition defined by fever and organ dysfunction in an observational cohort study at a single tertiary center. Etiology was defined using culture, antigen detection, serology, and polymerase chain reaction. The effect of treatment on 28-day outcomes was assessed using Bayesian logistic regression.

Results

There were 143 of 213 (67%) participants living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We identified a diagnosis in 145 of 225 (64%) participants, most commonly tuberculosis (TB; 34%) followed by invasive bacterial infections (17%), arboviral infections (13%), and malaria (9%). TB was associated with HIV infection, whereas malaria and arboviruses with the absence of HIV infection. Antituberculous chemotherapy was associated with survival (adjusted odds ratio for 28-day death, 0.17; 95% credible interval, 0.05–0.49 for receipt of antituberculous therapy). Of those with confirmed etiology, 83% received the broad-spectrum antibacterial ceftriaxone, but it would be expected to be active in only 24%.

Conclusions

Sepsis in Blantyre, Malawi, is caused by a range of pathogens; the majority are not susceptible to the broad-spectrum antibacterials that most patients receive. HIV status is a key determinant of etiology. Novel antimicrobial strategies for sepsis tailored to sub-Saharan Africa, including consideration of empiric antituberculous therapy in individuals living with HIV, should be developed and trialed.
Jaccoud’s arthropathy: a rare but well-known clinical entity
Authors: Golwara Ashish Kumar , Kumar Prabhat , Jha Parikshit , Thakur Deepashree
Published: August 2021

Jaccoud arthropathy is a deforming non-erosive arthropathy characterized by ulnar deviation of the 2nd to 5th fingers with metacarpophalangeal joint subluxation that is correctable with physical manipulation [Mittermayer S, Viviane M. Jaccoud's arthropathy. N Engl J Med 2015;373:e1.]. It was traditionally described as occurring post-rheumatic fever but also seen in association with systemic lupus erythematosus, psoriatic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and malignancy [Palazzi C, D'Amico E, De Santis D, Petricca A. Jaccoud's arthropathy of the hands as a complication of pyrophosphate arthropathy. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2001;40:354–355.]. It is thought to be related to ligamentous laxity. It typically affects the metacarpophalangeal joints but can also affect the proximal interphalangeal joints of the hands, wrists, and knees [Spina MF, Beretta L, Masciocchi M, Scorza R. Clinical and radiological picture of Jaccoud arthropathy in the context of systemic sclerosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2008;67:728–729.]. Hand radiographs typically show marked ulnar subluxation and deviation at the metacarpophalangeal joints with absence of erosions. We present a case in a very young female with no prior history of rheumatic fever or acute arthritis at any stage of illness.
Patients’ preferences regarding the digital capturing of patient-reported outcomes: planning the future follow-up in a prospective heart failure registry
Authors: König Sebastian , Leiner Johannes , Nitsche Anne , Mouratis Konstantinos , Schanner Carolin , Sommerschuh Anett , Hindricks Gerhard , Meier-Hellmann Andreas , Kuhlen Ralf , Bollmann Andreas
Published: August 2021

Aims

Digital health technologies have the potential to improve patient care sustainably. A digital capturing of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) could facilitate patients’ surveillance and endpoint assessment within clinical trials especially in heart failure (HF) patients. However, data regarding the availability of digital infrastructure and patients’ willingness to use digital health solutions are scarce. Therefore, we conducted a survey as part of a digital-based HF registry.

Methods and results

The Helios Heart registry (H2-registry) has been introduced as a prospective registry being based on digitally augmented processes throughout the whole trial conduction from patients’ selection to data collection and follow-up (FU). Patient-reported outcome measures are captured paper-based at recruitment, but patients are offered two digital solutions for FU. Overall, 125 patients (mean age 67.8 years, 34.4% female) were included in the single-centre run-in phase of 16 weeks. Of them, 52.0% were not interested in any digital contact as part of the FU. If digital PROM capturing was conceivable, a web-based solution (70.0%) was preferred to an application-based approach (30.0%). Discrepancies occurred regarding the availability of email accounts and smartphones. Patients in the non-digital group were older (72.0 years vs. 63.2 years, P < 0.01) and more frequently female (female sex, non-digital vs. digital group: 47.7% vs. 20.0%, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Our survey illustrated difficulties of implementing a digital FU to record PROMs in a contemporary HF cohort in particular among older patients. Further research is required to specify reasons in case of patients’ unwillingness and to better tailor digital health solutions to patients’ specific needs.
Targeting epigenetic modifiers to reprogramme macrophages in non-resolving inflammation-driven atherosclerosis
Authors: Jin Fengyan , Li Jian , Guo Jianfeng , Doeppner Thorsten R , Hermann Dirk M , Yao Gang , Dai Yun
Published: August 2021

Epigenomic and epigenetic research has been providing several new insights into a variety of diseases caused by non-resolving inflammation, including cardiovascular diseases. Atherosclerosis (AS) has long been recognized as a chronic inflammatory disease of the arterial walls, characterized by local persistent and stepwise accelerating inflammation without resolution, also known as uncontrolled inflammation. The pathogenesis of AS is driven primarily by highly plastic macrophages via their polarization to pro- or anti-inflammatory phenotypes as well as other novel subtypes recently identified by single-cell sequencing. Although emerging evidence has indicated the key role of the epigenetic machinery in the regulation of macrophage plasticity, the investigation of epigenetic alterations and modifiers in AS and related inflammation is still in its infancy. An increasing number of the epigenetic modifiers (e.g. TET2, DNMT3A, HDAC3, HDAC9, JMJD3, KDM4A) have been identified in epigenetic remodelling of macrophages through DNA methylation or histone modifications (e.g. methylation, acetylation, and recently lactylation) in inflammation. These or many unexplored modifiers function to determine or switch the direction of macrophage polarization via transcriptional reprogramming of gene expression and intracellular metabolic rewiring upon microenvironmental cues, thereby representing a promising target for anti-inflammatory therapy in AS. Here, we review up-to-date findings involving the epigenetic regulation of macrophages to shed light on the mechanism of uncontrolled inflammation during AS onset and progression. We also discuss current challenges for developing an effective and safe anti-AS therapy that targets the epigenetic modifiers and propose a potential anti-inflammatory strategy that repolarizes macrophages from pro- to anti-inflammatory phenotypes.