bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Social Contact Data to Improve the Overall Effect Estimate of a Cluster-Randomized Influenza Vaccination Program in Senegal
Authors: Potter Gail E. , Carnegie Nicole Bohme , Sugimoto Jonathan D. , Diallo Aldiouma , Victor John C. , Neuzil Kathleen M. , Elizabeth Halloran M.
Published: September 2021

This study estimates the overall effect of two influenza vaccination programs consecutively administered in a cluster-randomized trial in western Senegal over the course of two influenza seasons from 2009 to 2011. We apply cutting-edge methodology combining social contact data with infection data to reduce bias in estimation arising from contamination between clusters. Our time-varying estimates reveal a reduction in seasonal influenza from the intervention and a non-significant increase in H1N1 pandemic influenza. We estimate an additive change in overall cumulative incidence (which was 6.13% in the control arm) of -0.68 percentage points during Year 1 of the study (95% CI: −2.53, 1.18). When H1N1 pandemic infections were excluded from analysis, the estimated change was −1.45 percentage points and was significant (95% CI, −2.81, −0.08). Because cross-cluster contamination was low (0–3% of contacts for most villages), an estimator assuming no contamination was only slightly attenuated (−0.65 percentage points). These findings are encouraging for studies carefully designed to minimize spillover. Further work is needed to estimate contamination – and its effect on estimation – in a variety of settings.
Comparison of healthy blood donor Greyhounds and non‐Greyhounds using a novel point‐of‐care viscoelastic coagulometer
Authors: Chang Johnson , Jandrey Karl E. , Burges Julie W. , Kent Michael S.
Published: September 2021

Objective

To measure and compare viscoelastic coagulation in 2 canine blood donor populations using a novel, point‐of‐care device (VCM Vet Analyzer, VCM).

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

Academic and commercial veterinary blood banks.

Animals

Non‐Greyhounds from community‐based blood donor program and Greyhounds from a blood bank colony.

Intervention

Blood was collected from all dogs via direct venipuncture for a complete hemogram, biochemistry, and point‐of‐care viscoelastic coagulation.

Measurement and main results

All biochemical measurements for all dogs in Group NG (n = 38, non‐Greyhounds) and Group G (n = 53, Greyhounds) were within local reference intervals. Hematology data showed significant statistical differences between groups in hemoglobin, RBC, platelet, and WBC concentrations. Group G demonstrated lower maximum clot firmness (MCF) with 17 VCM units (26 VCM units in Group NG), increased lysis with 30 VCM units at 30 minutes (LI30) and 27 VCM units at 45 minutes (LI45) (86 VCM units LI30 and 85 VCM units LI45 in Group NG), and decreased amplitude of 13 VCM units 10 minutes (A10) after clot time (CT) and 6 VCM units 20 minutes after CT (A20) (18 VCM units [A10] and 22 VCM units [A20] in Group NG).

Conclusion

This study found differences between healthy Greyhound and non‐Greyhound blood donors in measures of clot strength and fibrinolysis as measured by the VCM. Whereas Greyhound have unique hematologic and hemostatic profiles, these measured viscoelastic differences are important to note prior to and following surgical intervention to aid in clinical decision‐making if bleeding complications develop.
Interleukin‐6 and lactate dehydrogenase expression in a novel ex vivo rocking model of equine corneal epithelial wound healing
Authors: Wehrman Rita Fay , Genschel Ulrike , Charli Adhithiya , Kanthasamy Anumantha G. , Allbaugh Rachel Anne , Ben‐Shlomo Gil
Published: September 2021

Purpose

To establish a physiologically relevant ex vivo model of equine corneal epithelial wound healing.

Methods

Fourteen equine corneas were randomly assigned to one of two groups: wounded (n = 8) or unwounded (n = 6) controls. In the wounded group, the axial corneal epithelium was removed by applying a 6 mm filter paper disk soaked in 1N‐NaOH for 60 s. Corneas were subsequently cultured using an air‐liquid interface model. Evaluation of corneal healing was performed daily, and culture medium was collected. Corneas were randomly assigned to undergo processing via histopathology and RNAscope in situ hybridization for interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and alpha‐smooth muscle actin (αSMA) expression at T24, T48, and T72 h after wounding. Media of the cultured corneas were evaluated for the presence of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) by a colorimetric assay.

Results

The ulcerated area of the wounded corneas decreased over time and all corneas healed within 72 h. Histologically, normal corneal architecture was observed including healthy epithelium (in areas other than the ulcerated ones), minimal stromal edema, intact endothelium, and Descemet's membrane. IL‐6 expression was increased in wounded corneas compared with unwounded controls. LDH expression was elevated for both wounded and unwounded corneas at T24 but decreased substantially and was not detected at T48 in media from wounded and unwounded corneas, respectively. No αSMA expression was detected from either wounded or unwounded corneas.

Conclusions

The equine air‐liquid interface, ex vivo, corneal epithelial wound healing model is effective and physiologically relevant. This model can be used in future studies evaluating various corneal therapies.
Grubbing and biological control strategies for Nassella trichotoma evaluated using a matrix population model
Authors: Bourdôt Graeme W. , Lamoureaux Shona L. , Noble Alasdair , Chen Yiwei , Song Carolyn
Published: September 2021

A stage‐structured matrix population model for the invasive perennial grass Nassella trichotoma (nassella tussock) was used to compare a wide range of hypothetical grubbing and biocontrol management options in a population of 19 visible plants ha−1 on a typical sheep and beef cattle‐grazed farm in North Canterbury, New Zealand. The model has two soil seed banks (ephemeral and persistent), five plant size classes, seed production and ground cover‐dependent population growth reaching a carrying capacity of 35,000 plants ha−1 (80% ground cover) in the absence of management. Elasticity analyses showed that population growth (λ) was most sensitive to plant size class transitions and relatively insensitive to the soil seed bank transitions, seedling recruitment and seed production, implying management targeting the growth and/or survival of plants will be most effective. This conclusion was supported by population trajectory simulations which revealed that a biological control agent attacking seeds or seedlings would need to be 99.8% effective to achieve the population stability achieved under current management where 34.4% of the plants are grubbed annually. By contrast, a biological control agent attacking tillers and reducing plant transitions (growth) across all size classes by 30% annually gave a population trajectory equivalent to that achieved by annual grubbing. In the presence of annual grubbing, a combination of seed‐ and tiller‐feeding agents giving 10% reductions in fecundity and plant growth, respectively, reduced the population density by 60%. Overall, the modelling shows that relaxing the current practice of annual grubbing (by reducing the rate or frequency of grubbing) whether in spring or autumn will result in the growth of N. trichotoma populations in North Canterbury. It also indicates that a biocontrol agent that impedes tiller production in N. trichotoma plants could potentially be an effective replacement for, or adjunct to, annual grubbing.
THE COHERENCE AND CHARACTER OF THE HUMANITIES: A REPLY TO CRITICS
Authors: Drees Willem B.
Published: September 2021

In this issue of Zygon: Journal of Religion and Science, Donald Drakeman, Peter Harrison, Douglas Ottati, Michael Ruse, and Lisa Stenmark reflect on Willem B. Drees, What Are the Humanities For? In my response to Harrison, I argue that the humanities do form a coherent domain, shaped by two fundamental orientations—the quest to understand fellow humans and self‐involvement. In response to Ruse, I defend my definition of the humanities as neither too wide nor too narrow. With Ottati, I concur that institutional proximity of religious studies and theology is beneficial to both. Against Stenmark, who considers my approach typically Western, I challenge the distinction she makes. Her contribution confirms what Drakeman writes, that ambitions about “value‐free” scholarship are controversial. His own contribution makes clear that this aspiration is necessary to serve the well‐being of peoples around the world. These five responses to my book provide an opportunity to reflect on my proposal for envisaging the humanities.
The Effects of Axisymmetric Convergent Contouring and Blowing Ratio on Endwall Film Cooling and Vane Pressure Side Surface Phantom Cooling Performance
Authors: Bai Bo , Li Zhigang , Li Jun , Mao Shuo , Ng Wing F.
Published: September 2021

To reduce the intensity of endwall secondary flow, the axisymmetric convergent contoured endwall is commonly designed in the first nozzle guide vane (NGV) passage of the real gas turbine engines. This endwall contouring can obviously alter flow field near endwall and affect the coolant flow through the upstream double-row discrete film holes. This leads to a significant influence on the endwall film cooling performance, vane surface phantom cooling, and vane passage aerodynamic performance. In this paper, a detailed numerical investigation on the endwall film cooling and vane pressure side surface phantom cooling was performed, at the simulated realistic gas turbine operating conditions (high inlet freestream turbulence level of 16%, exit Mach number of 0.85, and exit Reynolds number of 1.7 × 106). Based on a double coolant temperature model, a novel numerical method for the predictions of adiabatic wall film cooling effectiveness was proposed. This numerical method was validated by comparing the predicted results with experimental data of endwall Nusselt number, endwall film cooling effectiveness, and flow visualization near endwall. The results indicate that the present numerical method can accurately predict endwall thermal load distributions, endwall film cooling distributions, and vane surface phantom cooling distributions. The endwall heat transfer coefficient, endwall film cooling effectiveness, phantom cooling effectiveness of the vane pressure side surface, and total pressure loss coefficients (TPLC) were predicted and compared for two endwall contouring shapes (flat endwall and axisymmetric convergent contoured endwall) at three different blowing ratios (low blowing ratio of BR = 1.0, design blowing ratio of BR = 2.5, and high blowing ratio of BR = 3.5) with a constant density ratio of DR = 1.2, based on the present novel numerical method. Results show that the axisymmetric convergent endwall contouring leads to a slight enhancement (maximum enhancement level less than 20%) of endwall heat transfer in the entire vane passage (0 < x < 0.65Cx). The axisymmetric convergent endwall contouring has a significantly desired effect on endwall film cooling performance (maximum enhancement level of 67%), phantom cooling performance of the vane pressure side surface (maximum increase level approximately 100%), and aerodynamic loss (maximum reduction level of 1.45%) for all blowing ratio cases, but the benefit enhancement level is obviously affected by the blowing ratio values. This suggests that the optimum of endwall contouring shapes is an effective technical way to improve endwall film cooling performance and decrease the depletion of coolant; the coupled effects of the appropriate axisymmetric convergent endwall contouring and the optimum blowing ratio should be considered in the design process of advance endwall cooling schemes.
Optimum Multinozzle Configuration for Minimizing the Rayleigh Integral During High-Frequency Transverse Instabilities
Authors: Acharya Vishal , Lieuwen Timothy
Published: September 2021

This paper develops a formalism for optimizing nozzle location/configuration with respect to combustion stability of high-frequency transverse modes in a can combustor. The stability of these acoustically noncompact flames was assessed using the Rayleigh integral (RI). Several key control parameters influence RI—flame angle, swirling strength, nozzle location, as well as nozzle location with respect to the acoustic mode shape. In this study, we consider a N-around-1 configuration such as typically used in a multi-nozzle can system and study the overall stability of this system for different natural transverse modes. Typically, such nozzles are distributed in a uniformly circular manner for which we study the overall RI, and for cases where RI > 0, we optimize the nozzle distribution that can reduce and minimize RI. For a fixed geometry such as a circular configuration, the analysis shows how the flame's parameters must vary across the different nozzles, to result in a relatively stable system. Additionally, for a fixed set of flame parameters, the analysis also indicates the noncircular distribution of the N nozzles that minimizes RI. Overall, the analysis aims to provide insights on designing nozzle locations around the center nozzle for minimal amplification of a given transverse mode.
Development and Integration of the Dual Fuel Combustion System for the MGT Gas Turbine Family
Authors: Ćosić Bernhard , Reiß Frank , Blümer Marc , Frekers Christian , Genin Franklin , Pähr Judith , Wassmer Dominik
Published: September 2021

Industrial gas turbines like the MGT6000 are often operated as power supply or as mechanical drives. In these applications, liquid fuels like “diesel fuel no. 2” can be used either as main fuel or as backup fuel if natural gas is not reliably available. The MAN gas turbines (MGT) operate with the advanced can combustion (ACC) system, which is capable of ultralow NOx emissions for gaseous fuels. This system has been further developed to provide dry dual fuel capability. In this paper, we describe the design and detailed experimental validation process of the liquid fuel injection, and its integration into the gas turbine package. A central lance with an integrated two-stage nozzle is employed as a liquid pilot stage, enabling ignition and startup of the engine on liquid fuel only. The pilot stage is continuously operated, whereas the bulk of the liquid fuel is injected through the premixed combustor stage. The premixed stage comprises a set of four decentralized nozzles based on fluidic oscillator atomizers, wherein atomization of the liquid fuel is achieved through self-induced oscillations. We present results illustrating the spray, hydrodynamic, and emission performance of the injectors. Extensive testing of the burner at atmospheric and full load high-pressure conditions has been performed, before verification within full engine tests. We show the design of the fuel supply and distribution system. Finally, we discuss the integration of the dual fuel system into the standard gas turbine package of the MGT6000.
Statistical and Computational Evaluation of Empirical Axial Turbine Correlations in Design of Centrifugal Turbines
Authors: Min Liu Yu , Hendrick Patrick , Zou ZhengPing , Buysschaert Frank
Published: September 2021

Centrifugal turbines have recently regained interest of the engineering community as they could serve as cost-effective alternatives in diverse energy applications. In this device, the working fluid expands in a centrifugal flowpath and entails rotation of concentric rings of airfoil-shaped blades. Yet in their current design paradigm, their meanline performance estimation and optimization have dubiously exploited axial turbine empirical correlations. To the authors knowledge, there are no theoretical nor practical foundation that could justify such practice. Hence, this paper intends to deliver an answer on this matter with application of the biased Kacker and Okapuu (KO) and Aungier (Ag) correlations on 33 pairs of similar axial and centrifugal cascades. The uncovered content is twofold. First, the Ag loss demonstrates a probability of achieving an error within ±15% of 44% whereas that of KO is lessened to 38% in axial cascades. The Ag deviation attains 15% which is thrice that of the KO under same condition. In second, the insensitivity of the Ag profile and secondary losses under drastic change of flow condition in the centrifugal cascades is proven to be practically significant. While the Ag deviation is still able to reach an accuracy of 11%. The coupling effect of the terms intervening in the correlations reveal to be weak. Thereupon, the empirical axial turbine loss correlations are unreliable in performance estimation or optimization of centrifugal turbines.
Stratified and Hydrogen Combustion Techniques for Higher Turndown and Lower Emissions in Gas Turbines
Authors: Nemitallah Medhat A. , Haque MD Azazul , Hussain Muzafar , Abdelhafez Ahmed , Habib Mohamed A.
Published: September 2021

This review overviews combustion technologies for reduced emissions and better fuel economy in the industrial gas turbine. Lean premixed combustion (LPM) technology is introduced as a low-temperature combustion technique to control NOx emissions. The dry low NOx (DLN) is one of the most promising LPM-based combustors for controlling NOx emissions. However, DLN combustors suffer from limited flame stability, especially under low load (near blowout) operating conditions, in addition to the difficulty of separating CO2 from the exhaust stream for reducing the gas-turbine carbon footprint. Trying to overcome such difficulties, the gas turbine manufacturers developed enhanced-design burners for higher turndown and lower NOx emissions, including the Dual Annular Counter Rotating Swirl (DACRS) and environmental-vortex (EV) burners. The volume of the DACRS combustors is almost twice the conventional burners, which provide ample residence time for complete combustion. The mixing effectiveness is improved in EV-burners resulting in higher flame stability at low load or startup conditions. To widen the operability, control the emissions, and improve the turndown ratio of gas turbine combustors, the concept of flame stratification, i.e., heterogenization of the overall equivalence ratio, was introduced. This technique can widen the stability range of existing LPM flames for industrial applications. Integrating stratified combustion techniques with oxy-fuel combustion technology is a way forward that may result in complete control of gas turbine emissions with a higher operability turndown ratio. The recent developments and challenges toward the application of hydrogen gas turbines are introduced.
On-Sun Testing of a High-Temperature Solar Receiver’s Flux Distribution
Authors: Afrin Samia , Hossain Nazmul , Ma Zhiwen , Krushnarao Kotteda V. M. , Badhan Antara , Kumar Vinod
Published: September 2021

Concentrated solar power (CSP) is a promising technology in transitioning to renewable energy because of its abundance in nature and thermal energy storage (TES) capability. Among the four types of available CSP technology, including parabolic trough, linear Fresnel, power tower, and parabolic dishes, a power tower using a central receiver has more potential to generate high-temperature heat in a scale supporting power cycles efficiency and achieve low levelized cost of energy (LCOE). Other than the conventional type of receiver design, the high-absorptive receiver concept developed and presented in this paper is novel in its design approach. The novel receiver design originated from National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) consists of an array of solar flux absorb tubes. The solar absorb tubes require uniform flux distribution and in-depth flux penetration through the three different reflective sections of tubes in a hexagonal shape. To evaluate this unique receiver design and thermal performance, the flux distribution, flux uniformity, and intensity were numerically simulated using ansys fluent and SolTrace modeling program. On-sun testing has been done at NREL high flux solar testing facility, based on the computational analysis.
Leadership Efficacy in Youth Football: Athletes’ and Coaches’ Perspectives
Authors: Gomes A. Rui , Gonçalves Alexandre , Morais Catarina , Simães Clara , Resende Rui
Published: September 2021

According to the Leadership Efficacy Model, leadership efficacy depends on leaders’ tendency to make linear relationships between leadership philosophy, practice, and criteria (i.e., congruence of leadership cycles). Moreover, efficacy increases if coaches make these linear relationships by using the optimal leadership profile and by considering the antecedent factors of leadership (characteristics of the leader, team members, and organizational conditions; i.e., favorability of conditions for leadership). This study compared the perceptions of athletes and their coaches regarding leadership cycles, and tested the moderator role of optimal leadership profile and leadership favorability in the relationship between leadership cycles and leadership efficacy. This study included 92 football athletes (ages less than 17 and 19 years) and respective coaches (n = 5). The evaluation protocol included measures of leadership cycles, leadership styles, leadership favorability, and sport performance perception. Athletes and coaches agreed on coaches’ need to increase their practice and criteria, but athletes also considered that coaches should better clarify their philosophy. Regression analyses confirmed that leadership congruency predicts higher perceptions of team performance in athletes. Moreover, optimal leadership profile and higher leadership favorability were associated with higher team and individual performance. However, these two factors did not moderate the relationship between leadership congruency and efficacy.
Comment on “Recent global decline of CO
2
fertilization effects on vegetation photosynthesis”
Authors: Sang Yuxing , Huang Ling , Wang Xuhui , Keenan Trevor F. , Wang Chenzhi , He Yue
Published: September 2021

Wang
et al
. (Research Articles, 11 December 2020, p. 1295) reported a large decline in the CO
2
fertilization effect (CFE) on global photosynthesis, on the basis of changing regression coefficients of CO
2
(β) for satellite proxies/products of photosynthesis. We show that their methods cannot robustly estimate CFE, leading to incorrect attribution, and largely neglect CO
2
effects on the photosynthetic enzyme ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase-oxygenase (RuBisCO).
Strange bedfellows inside a superconductor
Authors: Le Tacon Matthieu
Published: September 2021

An unexpected link is found between the “strange metal” phase and charge density waves
Topological insulator vertical-cavity laser array
Authors: Dikopoltsev Alex , Harder Tristan H. , Lustig Eran , Egorov Oleg A. , Beierlein Johannes , Wolf Adriana , Lumer Yaakov , Emmerling Monika , Schneider Christian , Höfling Sven , Segev Mordechai , Klembt Sebastian
Published: September 2021

Topologically locked for emission

The output power from a laser system can be increased by forming an array of lasers; however, because the individual lasers are independent, the resultant output may not be coherent. Dikopoltsevet al. report on the realization of a topological vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (VCSEL) array. The topological nature of the array-based laser emission was achieved through a combination of topological in-plane propagation of evanescent light linking the vertical cavity surface-emitting lasers of the array. The topological features of the array force injection locking, making all emitters (30 in this case) act as a single coherent laser. This development will be important for realizing large-scale coherent laser arrays. —ISO
Photons and qubits get a better connection
Authors: Kaufman Adam M.
Published: September 2021

Quantum networks will require versatile quantum interconnects
The legacy of the Human Genome Project
Authors: Rood Jennifer E. , Regev Aviv
Published: September 2021

The initiative forever altered biomedicine, but work remains to fulfill its true potential
Reversing aging for heart repair
Authors: Wang Yu Xin , Blau Helen M.
Published: September 2021

Short-term induction of pluripotency gene expression allows adult mouse cardiomyocytes to regenerate
Draft Genome Sequence of a Diploid and Hybrid
Candida
Strain,
Candida sanyaensis
UCD423, Isolated from Compost in Ireland
Authors: Ryan Adam , Ó Cinnéide Eoin , Bergin Sean A. , Alhajeri Ghozlan , Almotawaa Hawraa , Daly Isabelle , Heneghan Sophia , Horan Kellie , Kavanagh Roslyn , Keane Christopher , Martin Aaron , McDonagh Ada , O’Leary Julia , Osborne Matthieu , Watson Emma , Byrne Kevin P. , Wolfe Kenneth H. , Butler Geraldine
Published: September 2021

Candida sanyaensis
is a CUG-Ser1 clade yeast that is associated with soil. Assembly of short-read and long-read data shows that
C. sanyaensis
has a diploid and hybrid genome, with approximately 97% identity between the haplotypes. The haploid genome size is approximately 15.4 Mb.
Nineteenth-century paleontological art in the Natural History Museum Vienna, Austria: Between demystification and mythologization
Authors: Jovanovic-Kruspel* Stefanie , Harzhauser* Mathias
Published: September 2021

The nineteenth century was the dawn of scientific and systematic paleontology. The foundation of Natural History Museums—built as microcosmic “Books of Nature”—not only contributed to the establishment of this new discipline but also to its visual dissemination. This paper will take the metaphor of the “book” as a starting point for an examination of the paleontological exhibition at the Natural History Museum in Vienna. In keeping with “Natural Theology,” the earliest natural science museums in Britain were designed as expressions of the medieval idea of the “Holy Book of Nature.” Contrary to this, the Natural History Museum Vienna, opened in 1889, wanted to be a nonreligious museum of evolution. Nevertheless, the idea of the “book” was also influential for its design. According to the architects and the first director, it should be a modern “walk-in textbook” instructive for everyone. The most prominent exhibition hall in the museum is dedicated to paleontology. The hall’s decorative scheme forms a unique “Paleo-Gesamtkunstwerk” (Gesamtkunstwerk: total piece of art). The use of grotesque and mythological elements is a particularly striking feature of the hall’s decoration and raises the question of how this relates to the museum’s claim to be a hard-core science institution. As it was paleontology’s task to demystify the monsters and riddles of Earth history systematically, it seems odd that the decorative program connected explicitly to this world. This chapter sheds light on the cultural traditions that led to the creation of this ambiguous program that oscillates between science and imagination.
En bloc resection in giant bilobed splenic artery aneurysm
Authors: Mulpuri Venu Bhargava , Samanta Jayanta , Gupta Pankaj , Gupta Vikas
Published: September 2021

Giant splenic artery aneurysms are rare and associated with high morbidity and mortality. Early detection is the key to decreasing morbidity and mortality. We present a giant splenic artery aneurysm which was managed by en bloc resection of the spleen, distal pancreas.
Rare case of COVID-19 vaccine-associated intracranial haemorrhage with venous sinus thrombosis
Authors: Purkayastha Pujon , Mckechnie Charlie , Kalkur Pallavi , Scully Marie
Published: September 2021

Vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT) is a relatively novel term which describes patients who have developed a low platelet count and prothrombotic tendencies secondary to receiving a vaccine. The concept has been derived from the well-established phenomenon of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, and several cases of VITT have now been reported in patients who have received the AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1 nCov-19) vaccine. Unfortunately, some of these patients have gone on to develop intracranial venous sinus thrombosis. We present a case of VITT-associated sinus thrombosis secondary to the AstraZeneca (ChAdOx1 nCov-19) vaccine, which was complicated by a large intracerebral haemorrhage.
Bayesian interpretation of p values in clinical trials
Authors: Ferguson John
Published: September 2021

Commonly accepted statistical advice dictates that large-sample size and highly powered clinical trials generate more reliable evidence than trials with smaller sample sizes. This advice is generally sound: treatment effect estimates from larger trials tend to be more accurate, as witnessed by tighter confidence intervals in addition to reduced publication biases. Consider then two clinical trials testing the same treatment which result in the same p values, the trials being identical apart from differences in sample size. Assuming statistical significance, one might at first suspect that the larger trial offers stronger evidence that the treatment in question is truly effective. Yet, often precisely the opposite will be true. Here, we illustrate and explain this somewhat counterintuitive result and suggest some ramifications regarding interpretation and analysis of clinical trial results.
Projecting the impact of triple CFTR modulator therapy on intravenous antibiotic requirements in cystic fibrosis using patient registry data combined with treatment effects from randomised trials
Authors: Keogh Ruth H , Cosgriff Rebecca , Andrinopoulou Eleni-Rosalina , Brownlee Keith G , Carr Siobhán B , Diaz-Ordaz Karla , Granger Emily , Jewell Nicholas P , Lewin Alex , Leyrat Clemence , Schlüter Daniela K , van Smeden Maarten , Szczesniak Rhonda D , Connett Gary J
Published: September 2021

Background

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a life-threatening genetic disease, affecting around 10 500 people in the UK. Precision medicines have been developed to treat specific CF-gene mutations. The newest, elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ELEX/TEZ/IVA), has been found to be highly effective in randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and became available to a large proportion of UK CF patients in 2020. Understanding the potential health economic impacts of ELEX/TEZ/IVA is vital to planning service provision.

Methods

We combined observational UK CF Registry data with RCT results to project the impact of ELEX/TEZ/IVA on total days of intravenous (IV) antibiotic treatment at a population level. Registry data from 2015 to 2017 were used to develop prediction models for IV days over a 1-year period using several predictors, and to estimate 1-year population total IV days based on standards of care pre-ELEX/TEZ/IVA. We considered two approaches to imposing the impact of ELEX/TEZ/IVA on projected outcomes using effect estimates from RCTs: approach 1 based on effect estimates on FEV1% and approach 2 based on effect estimates on exacerbation rate.

Results

ELEX/TEZ/IVA is expected to result in significant reductions in population-level requirements for IV antibiotics of 16.1% (~17 800 days) using approach 1 and 43.6% (~39 500 days) using approach 2. The two approaches require different assumptions. Increased understanding of the mechanisms through which ELEX/TEZ/IVA acts on these outcomes would enable further refinements to our projections.

Conclusions

This work contributes to increased understanding of the changing healthcare needs of people with CF and illustrates how Registry data can be used in combination with RCT evidence to estimate population-level treatment impacts.
Evaluation of the mixed-effects model and quantile regression approaches for predicting tree height in larch (Larix olgensis) plantations in northeastern China
Authors: Xie Longfei , Widagdo Faris Rafi Almay , Miao Zheng , Dong Lihu , Li Fengri
Published: September 2021

Tree height (H) is one of the most important tree variables and is widely used in growth and yield models, and its measurement is often time-consuming and costly. Hence, height–diameter (H–D) models have become a great alternative, providing easy-to-use and accurate tools for H prediction. In this study, H–D models were developed for Larix olgensis A. Henry in northeastern China. The Chapman–Richards function with three predictors (diameter at breast height, dominant tree height, and relative size of individual trees) performed best. Nonlinear mixed-effects (NLME) models and nonlinear quantile regressions (NQR9, nine quantiles; NQR5, five quantiles; and NQR3, three quantiles) were further used and improved the generalized H–D model, successfully providing accurate H predictions. In addition, the H predictions were calibrated using several measurements from subsamples, which were obtained from different sampling designs and sizes. The results indicated that the predictive accuracy was higher when calibrated by using any number of height measurements for the NLME model and more than three height measurements for the NQR3, NQR5, and NQR9 models. The best sampling strategy for the NLME and NQR models involved sampling medium-sized trees. Overall, the newly developed H–D models can provide highly accurate height predictions for L. olgensis.
Navigating a defining moment: COVID-19 and curatorial thinking
Authors: Mant Madeleine , Cutrara Samantha
Published: September 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has engendered a critical moment in education. Questions of equity, engagement, and interaction have been brought into sharper focus as students’ homes became their classrooms. There is a demonstrated need for interdisciplinary thinking, enabling students to work with the resources they have at hand, and helping learners orient themselves in place and time. Defining Moments Canada/Moments Déterminant Canada, using the interdisciplinary framework of curatorial thinking, encourages students to make sense of information, more effectively create a meaningful story, and build a stronger sense of social responsibility and awareness. This framework is operationalized using the S.A.S.S. pedagogy—Selecting, Archiving, Sense-Making, and Sharing—through which students find their personal way into a research question and demonstrate their learning while considering narrative intent, evidence limitations, and their own role as a historical actor. This integrative, critical, and interdisciplinary focus is an approach to a (post)pandemic world that prioritizes creative student responsiveness to upcoming challenges.
Bifurcation analysis of modified density gradient continuum traffic model
Authors: Ai Wenhuan , Su Yuhang , Xing Tao , Liu Dawei
Published: September 2021

This paper proposes a new density gradient continuous traffic flow model, and analyzes the linear stability of the model, as well as the bifurcation type of the model. Numerical simulation of the new model verifies the usability of the model. From the perspective of system stability, the bifurcation analysis method is used to analyze the nonlinear traffic phenomena on the expressway. The equilibrium solution of the model is discussed. On this basis, Hopf bifurcation, saddle bifurcation and Bogdanov–Takens bifurcation are obtained, and the existence conditions and fractional types of Hopf bifurcation and saddle bifurcation are obtained. The traffic flow characteristics of Hopf bifurcation and saddle node bifurcation are analyzed.
Future prospects in neutrino physics
Authors: Choubey Sandhya
Published: September 2021

Neutrino physics has come a long way and made great strides in the past decades. We discuss the prospects of what more can be learned in this field in the forthcoming neutrino oscillation facilities. We will mostly focus on the potential of the long-baseline experiments and the atmospheric neutrino experiments. Sensitivity of these experiments to standard neutrino oscillation parameters will be presented. We will also discuss the prospects of new physics searches at these facilities.
Non-extensive transverse momentum distribution for identified particles at SNN = 7.7, 11.5, 19.6, 27, 39GeV
Authors: Saleh Wafaa , Shalaby Asmaa G.
Published: September 2021

The transverse momentum distribution of charged particles formed in Au–Au collisions at Beam Energy Scan (BES) ([Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GeV) is investigated. In addition, [Formula: see text] spectra of [Formula: see text] particle at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]GeV were examined. Tsallis distribution is used to extract the temperature, volume and the entropic index from the experimental results at mid-rapidity and zero chemical potential. We measure some particle ratios like [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] which are puzzling horn in the experiment and in the thermal model. We conclude that the horn vanished when we used Tsallis distribution, but this does not confirm a solution to the puzzle, which is primarily visible in the experimental results.
Data Mining Method for Identifying Biased or Misleading Future Outlook
Authors: Yosef Arthur , Schneider Moti , Shnaider Eli
Published: September 2021

In this study, we introduce a data mining method to identify biased and/or misleading outlooks for future performance of various factors, such as income, corporate profits, production, countries’ GDP, etc. The method consists of several components. One very important component involves building a general model, where the dependent variable is a factor suspected of projecting an over-optimistic impression in some records. Explanatory variables in the model are viewed as representing the potential for the satisfactory performance of the dependent variable. The second component involves evaluating the potential for the individual records of interest (specific countries, corporations, production facilities, etc.), and allows us to identify possible gaps between the upbeat/optimistic projections into the future (of the dependent variable) versus low and/or declining potential. In other words, low and/or declining potential basically tells us that the optimistic future performance of the dependent variable is unattainable, and could also represent misleading or deceitful information. The important novelty of this study is the capability to identify a highly exaggerated outlook of future performance, by utilizing a soft regression tool and the concept of “performance potential”. The process is explained in detail, including the conditions for successful evaluations. Case studies to evaluate expected economic success are presented.
The Rényi holographic dark energy model in Chern–Simons gravity: Some cosmological implications
Authors: Ali Sarfraz , Khan Sarfaraz , Sattar Sadia , Abebe Amare
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we study the Rényi holographic dark energy (HDE) model in the context of the Chern–Simons (CS) model of modified gravity theory. Different cosmological parameters, such as energy density, deceleration parameter, equation of state, square of sound speed and cosmological plane, are discussed using the Friedmann–Lemaître–Robertson–Walker spacetime background. Two separate solutions of CS field equations arise. The Rényi HDE model shows the transition from deceleration to acceleration phase which is fully consistent with the observational data while the second case represents a decelerated phase of expansion only. Our results, based on the results of the equation of state obtained, predict that the universe is under the influence of dark energy, and therefore, in an accelerated expansion phase. On the other hand, the second-case solution shows the influence of [Formula: see text]CDM. In both cases, [Formula: see text] indicated that the Rényi HDE model is in the freezing region and cosmic expansion is more accelerating in the context of CS modified gravity. It is also observed that the value of the squared sound speed, [Formula: see text], is positive [Formula: see text], a sufficient condition for the stability of the system. Hence, it is concluded that the Rényi HDE model is supported by the results of general relativity in the framework of CS modified gravity.
Fabrication of SiO2nanofiber-integrated all-inorganic electrodes for safer Li-ion batteries
Authors: Hu Weiren , Wang Sen , Peng Long , Hu Xianluo
Published: September 2021

Energy density, rate capability, and safety are often compromised in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). To overcome this dilemma, novel electrode structure design is considered as one of the most promising routes. However, simple and scalable fabrication methods are currently very limited. Here, an electrostatic self-assembled three-dimensional Li4Ti5O[Formula: see text] (3D-LTO) electrode with high-energy density as a whole and excellent thermal stability was fabricated by regulating the zeta potential of electrode components. Such a 3D electrode features an intergraded current collector layer of SiO2/ketjen black (KB) and active material layer of SiO2/KB/LTO/carbon fiber (CF). Benefiting from its well-designed electronic conductive 3D skeleton and desirable chemical affinity with the liquid electrolyte, outstanding cyclability (capacity retention of 85% over 80 cycles) and rate capability (125 mAh g[Formula: see text] at 5 C) could be achieved for Li/3D-LTO cells with a high LTO mass loading of 10 mg cm[Formula: see text]. Excellent thermal-tolerance of the 3D electrode enables the cell with good operability and safety at an elevated temperature of 80[Formula: see text]C. The discharge capacity of the Li/3D-LTO half-cell remains 160 mAh g[Formula: see text] at 1 C after 100 cycles. This simple and scalable method for the fabrication of the 3D electrodes boosts the energy density, rate capability, and high-temperature operability, which is promising for next-generation LIBs.
Investigation and modeling of cyclic aging using a design of experiment with automotive grade lithium-ion cells
Authors: Stadler Jochen , Krupp Carsten , Ecker Madeleine , Bandlow Jochen , Spier Bernd , Latz Arnulf
Published: September 2021

60 large format automotive grade lithium-ion pouch cells with graphite/NMC chemistry are tested following a design of experiment (DoE) approach. Realistic driving profiles resembling a plugin-hybrid electric vehicle are used with variation of five aging factors: temperature, maximum and minimum state of charge, charging power, and the ratio of charge depleting vs. charge sustaining cycling.Capacity fade is cleaned from calendar aging and multivariate stepwise linear regression is used to parameterize an empirical model of cyclic capacity fade.Temperature and the ratio between charge depleting and charge sustaining cycling show the biggest impact on cyclic aging, whereas charging power has little effect in the chosen range of aging conditions.
Some Results on the Extended Hypergeometric Matrix Functions and Related Functions
Authors: Abdalla Mohamed , Idris Sahar Ahmed , Mekawy Ibrahim
Published: September 2021

In this article, we discuss certain properties for generalized gamma and Euler’s beta matrix functions and the generalized hypergeometric matrix functions. The current results for these functions include integral representations, transformation formula, recurrence relations, and integral transforms.
Statistical and Experimental Investigation of Hardened AISI H11 Steel in CNC Turning with Alternative Measurement Methods
Authors: Şahin Emrah , Esen İsmail
Published: September 2021

In recent years, hard turning, an alternative to grinding, which provides low cost and good surface quality, has become an attractive method to the manufacturers. In this experimental study, AISI H11 hot work tool steel that has been hardened up to 50 HRC was subjected to hard turning tests with coated carbide tooling. The analyses were carried out by applying response surface methodology with the analysis of variance method. A total of 27 experiments were modeled utilizing 33 full factorial design and were carried out using a CNC lathe. The effects of the cutting parameters on surface roughness, energy consumption, electric current value, and sound intensity level were investigated. Optimum cutting parameters and levels were determined according to these optimum values. The relationship between cutting parameters and output variables was analyzed with two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional graphics. The results show that while the most effective parameter on the surface roughness was the feed rate (88.62%), the most effective parameter on the sound intensity level was the cutting speed (44.92%). In addition, the cutting depth was the most effective parameter on both electric current (52.20%) and energy consumption (46.15%). Finally, regression coefficients were determined as a mathematical model, and it was observed that this estimated model gave results that were very similar to those achieved with real experiment (correlation values: 97.64% for surface roughness, 98.72% for energy consumption, 97.22% for electric current value, and 91.38% for sound intensity level).
Rumohra ponceana (Polypodiales: Dryopteridaceae): a new species from Pampean biogeographic province in Argentina
Authors: ARANA MARCELO D. , LUNA MARÍA LUJÁN , BERRUETA PEDRO C. , MARTINENCO MARÍA LUZ , GIUDICE GABRIELA E.
Published: September 2021

The fern Rumohra ponceana sp. nov., a narrow endemic of the Austral Pampean district, Pampean biogeographic province in Argentina, is described and illustrated. The species inhabits the Tandilia and Ventania Systems, where it grows in sunny rock crevices. The new species differs from the widespread R. adiantiformis (sensu lato) by the reduced size of all parts of the sporophyte and conspicuous capitate glandular hairs at the margins of petiole and rhizome scales. Also, there are significant differences in the architecture of the laminae, the colour and size of the spores and the ornamentation of the perispore, which is folded in R. ponceana and projects in irregular tubercles throughout its surface.
A New Species of Adesmia (Leguminosae, Papilionoideae, Dalbergieae) from Southern Brazil, with Notes on Leaf Anatomy
Authors: MONTEIRO THIAGO COBRA E , IGANCI JOÃO RICARDO VIEIRA , SEIXAS DIANA PACHECO , RODRIGUES TATIANE MARIA , FORTUNA-PEREZ ANA PAULA
Published: September 2021

A revisional taxonomic study of Adesmia subg. Adesmia ser. Bicolores has unveiled a new species from southern Brazil. Adesmia miottoae is described and illustrated here. Its geographic distribution, phenology, conservation status and morphological similarities with its closest relatives, Adesmia punctata and A. incana, are presented. The species is distinguished by glandular trichomes covering all the aerial parts of the plant, except the corolla. These trichomes are shorter than those of Adesmia punctata. Additionally, a detailed anatomical description of the leaflet blade is provided.
Rigiolepis argentii (Ericaceae): a new species from Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: MUSTAQIM WENDY ACHMMAD , ARDI WISNU HANDOYO
Published: September 2021

A new species of Rigiolepis (Ericaceae) from the island of Sulawesi, R. argentii Mustaqim & Ardi, is described. The new species is known from three locations, two in Sulawesi Selatan Province (Mount Sesean in Toraja Utara Regency and Eran Batu in Enrekang Regency) and one in Sulawesi Barat Province (Mamasa Regency). This species is similar to R. moultonii (Merr.) J.J. Sm., but differs by the persistent hairs on the abaxial surfaces of the leaves, the basal marginal glands in a shorter distance (1–2 mm) to from the petiole, bracteoles borne on the lower half of the pedicels, cup-shaped calyx tube, longer filaments (2 mm), and cupular fruits.
Three new synonyms of Rhopalopsole sinensis Yang & Yang, 1993 (Plecoptera: Leuctridae)
Authors: YANG YU-BEN , DU YU-ZHOU
Published: September 2021

We recently examined specimens of the Rhopalopsole from Hubei, Ningxia and Shaanxi, China and three new synonyms of Rhopalopsole sinensis Yang & Yang, 1993 are established: Rhopalopsole furcata Yang & Yang, 1994, Rhopalopsole hongpingana Sivec & Harper, 2008 and Rhopalopsole ningxiana Li & Yang, 2010 are synonymized with Rhopalopsole sinensis Yang & Yang, 1993. We also place Rhopalopsole furcospina (Wu, 1973) as a nomen dubium. Long hairs on the antennae of R. sinensis thought to be diagnostic also occur on Rhopalopsole ampulla Du & Qian, 2011, Rhopalopsole exiguspina Du & Qian, 2011, and Rhopalopsole memorabilis Qian & Du, 2014. We provide new images of several species to facilitate identification.