bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fire Emergency Evacuation for Large-Scale Public Buildings In 3d Gis
Authors: Li Hongga , Huang Xiaoxia
Published: May 2021

High temperature and smoke poisoning during indoor fires can be fatal, yet traditional evacuation methods fail to account for the high temperature distribution and smoke flow. In this paper, we proposed a fire emergency crowd evacuation model for large-scale public building. Our model integrates fire numerical simulations, individual behavior, and a model to search for the shortest path. Navigation meshes for each floor are connected to form complex 3D multi-meshes for complex architectural interior spaces. The fire numerical simulation provides smoke diffusion flows and the temperature field distribution. The A* algorithm, with its heuristic social force model function for individual behavior, is applied to determine the safest and shortest evacuation route, avoiding risk hazard zones across different floors.
Gray System Prediction in the Alpine–Himalayan Earthquake Zone
Authors: Chen Jiemin , Yan Zelin , Xu Linfeng , Liu Zhixin , Liu Yan , Tian Jiawei
Published: May 2021

Increasingly frequent earthquakes pose a serious threat to human lives and properties. However, the prediction of seismic activity is a major problem in seismic research. In this paper, we use the gray model to study seismic activity patterns. The Alpine–Himalayan seismic zone is selected as a study area for this work. Using seismic activity in the region, we analyze characteristics of time series related to seismic activity. Results show that the gray model for predicting seismic activity is available. The timing of the seismic activity of the Alpine–Himalayan seismic zone displays certain regularity. On the basis of computational analysis on July 20, 2015, a strong earthquake will occur in 26 years. In this paper, we use the application of a gray system that provides a new modeling approach in the field of disaster prevention to predict seismic activity, which is important in disaster prevention, disaster management, and rescue.
Research on transmission mechanism of harmonics in cable lines
Authors: Pan Ling , Feng Qian , Zhang Peng , Shen Bing , Chen Ran , Zeng Ping
Published: May 2021

The high cabled rate of urban power grid aggravates the risk of resonance and harmonic amplification. In addition, the system side of DC receiving end urban power grid contains converter station high-power harmonic sources, while the user side contains other nonlinear user harmonic sources. There are two-way conduction characteristics of harmonics in transmission lines. The problem of resonance and harmonic amplification in distribution network is aggravated by high cable ratio. Therefore, the response of the system side injected harmonic voltage at the end of the line and the potential harmonic amplification problem after the user side injected harmonic current are studied respectively. The influence of key factors (line type, length, load rate and power factor) on harmonic propagation is analyzed. The characteristic harmonic of converter station is not amplified and the most severe condition of amplification is summarized. The harmonic limit of the harmonic injection terminal is also proposed.
The investigation of current-voltage characteristics based on poly(2-methoxy,5-octoxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene-PbSe composite solar cells
Authors: Wang Chunfeng , Yan Rui
Published: May 2021

A bulk heterojunction photovoltaic device was prepared based on the blend of conjugated poly[(2-methoxy,5-octoxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene] (MOPPV)-inorganic PbSe quantum dots. We studied the device performance of the active layer with different mass ratio, and the device performance was best when PbSe wt% was 50% in the MOPPV-PbSe composites, as well as, the short-current density(J
sc), open-circuit voltage(V

oc
), fill factor(FF) and the power conversion efficiency(η) of the device were 3.661mA/cm2, 0.326V, 23% and 0.277%, respectively. Results indicated that PbSe quantum dots in composite was helped to exciton dissociation, charge transfer, and mobility.
Balanced Global and Local Properties Multi-objective Particle Swarm Optimization (GL-MOPSO): A microgrid scheduling optimization algorithm
Authors: Zhao Hongcheng , Zhang Zhipeng , Zhang Junjie , Liang Haidong , Zeng Fei , Zhao Jinshuai
Published: May 2021

Many multi-objective optimization problems exist in electric power systems. Traditional multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) adopts the crowding distance method to find the global best position; consequently, the algorithm presents satisfactory local property but poor global property. In this paper, a fuzzy similarity matrix method, which can enhance global search capability, is introduced into MOPSO to replace the crowding distance method. However, this method sacrifices the local property of the algorithm. To harmonize the global and local search capabilities, an improved MOPSO called Balanced Global and Local Properties MOPSO (GL-MOPSO) is proposed in this paper. In each generation of the process, the selection between the crowding distance method and the fuzzy similarity matrix method is guided by monitoring the convergence and diversity of the swarm. Furthermore, the strategy for updating the local best position is improved.
Study on the influence factors of the cycle life of lead-acid battery in DC system
Authors: Wen Yun , Wang Lei , Cheng Cheng , Wang Zhou , Pei Feng , Jia Lulu , Wang Min
Published: May 2021

The high-current accelerated cycle test was used to detect and evaluate the lead-acid battery in the DC system. The results showed that at a temperature of 50 °C, a charge and discharge of 100A, a charge cut-off voltage of 2.4V, and a discharge cut-off voltage of 1.75V were used. The charging time is t1 (t1 is the charging time in the first cycle equal to the charging time when the capacity is discharged). The capacity retention rate is 93.31%, and the charging time is t2 (t2 is the charging capacity in the first cycle is 1.03 times the discharge capacity. The capacity retention rate is 74.72%. Overcharge can reduce the capacity retention rate; the slope during the charging and discharging stages has a good relationship with the capacity retention rate. The slope can be used to represent the capacity retention rate, so the capacity retention can be predicted in advance rate. The research results can realize the detection of DC batteries and provide a basis for battery quality evaluation.
Promotion of CH4 hydrate generation by various surfactants in quiescent system for renewable energy application
Authors: Li Juan , Xia Xinliang , Liu Changming , Tang Nong
Published: May 2021

Biogas can be used as a supplement to the consumption gap of natural gas, a propellant for low-carbon and circular economy, as well as an important component in energy security. The storage and transportation of biogas by hydrate method is widely concerned at home and abroad. The main component of biogas is methane. In this paper, two kinds of surfactants, fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether (AEO) and fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether sodium sulfate (AES), were selected to study the effects of their types and concentrations on the induction time and formation rate of CH4 hydrate. The results showed that the optimum mass concentrations of AEO and AES in hydration system were 2.5% and 0.1%, respectively, and the induction time of CH4 hydrate formation was 63min and 64min, respectively. AEO is beneficial to the formation of CH4 hydrate nuclei, and its promoting mechanism is micelle theory; while AES promotion mechanism is mainly adsorption. The research results are of great significance for the development of rural clean and renewable energy, the prevention of agricultural source pollution, and the consolidation of ecological environment construction.
Development status of global seawater desalination industry and dynamically comparative analysis of its production cost
Authors: Huan Songhua , Liu Xiuli
Published: May 2021

This paper summarizes seawater desalination’s development status in China and abroad, then analyses its domestic development trend and attention through Baidu Index. Then compares the cost differences among RO, MED and other technologies in different scales and years and their change trend. Furthermore, the paper identifies the main impacting factors of production costs with RO and MED and evaluates their contributions to the cost through actual cases. The results show that: with the expansion of production scale and technological progress, the production cost of seawater desalination is gradually reduced, and the cost of RO and MED was reduced by 29.75% and 36.97% from 1999 to 2017, respectively. In the production cost of seawater desalination, power cost accounts for nearly 40%, and fixed asset investment accounts for about 20%. On a 100000 m3/d scale, the production costs with RO or MED in China are 26.85% and 22.50% higher than those of foreign countries, respectively. The production cost of seawater desalination is about 1.28 times of tap water and 1.20 times of reclaimed water in China. In the future, reducing the production cost of seawater desalination in China can be promoted through scientific investment and operation, technological progress and innovation, improving the cost structure, making up for the shortage of talents, and government guidance and support mutually.
Analysis on Periodic Change of Small Pan Evaporation in Xinjiang
Authors: Qin Rong , Yang Xian , Jia Muxin , Jing Lihong , Chen Yanli , Qian Wenxin
Published: May 2021

This paper selects ten national reference climatologic stations and two national basic stations in Xinjiang, respectively Urumqi Station, Turpan Station, Qitai Station, Usu Station, Altay Station, Ili Station, Hami Station, Khotan Station, Minfeng Station, Aksu Station, Ruoqiang Station and Yanqi Station. According to the surface observation data of the stations during 1961-2019, complete E
20 sequence for the period 1961-2019 is acquired. This paper analyzes spectral characteristics and periodic changes of annual E
20 in each station. Results show: (1) The complete daily E
20 sequence during 1961-2019 after run-in in 12 stations experiences typical changes on a yearly basis, and at present, the entire Xinjiang enters a new high evaporation period; (2) The main period of annual E
20 in the 12 stations shows 23~32a periodic oscillation, and the evaporation level in each station is the most active on that dimension; secondly, Yanqi Station, Aksu Station, Khotan Station, Minfeng Station and Hami Station have obvious and universal periodic oscillation on the longer scale of 14~22a; Altay Station, Usu Station, Qitai Station, Urumqi Station and Ruoqiang Station show obvious periodic oscillation on the scale of 10a; this study sufficiently confirms the larger periodic change trend of evaporation sequence in Xinjiang during 1961-2019.
Analysis of the Causes of a Hail Weather in the Western Tarim Basin in July 2018
Authors: Jiang Aihong , Chen Yanli , Wang Zhilong , Ren Dong , Dong Baojian , Xie Hui
Published: May 2021

Using the conventional data, sounding data, NCEP/NCAR 1 ° × 1 ° reanalysis data and new generation weather radar data of regional automatic weather stations, the paper analyzes the occurrence and development mechanism of a hail weather process in the western Tarim Basin on July 2, 2018. The results show that: (1) The main influence system of the hail weather was caused by the continuous splitting of short waves in the southern section of the lower Siberian trough crossing the Pamirs; the hail weather occurrence time section was mainly in the area where warm and low pressure and cold air meet, and the ground convergence was the trigger mechanism for this hail weather. (2) The easterly winds appearing in the eastern to central regions of the southern Xinjiang Basin played an air cushion role, and the emergence of ground heat and low pressure enhanced the convergence of the ground near the ground. (3) There was obvious wind speed convergence in the ground layer of the area from Kashi Prefecture to Tumxuk in Xinjiang prior to the genration of the convective cell storm, which was favorable to the occurrence of local hail weather. (4) The radar reflectivity factor strong center corresponds to the large value region of the reflectivity factor gradient, which has a good indication for the identification and early warning of the hail cloud, and the intensity of the echo top was presented as banded distribution and small range, large intensity gradient and fast moving speed. There were suspended echoes and weak echo regions on the reflectivity factor profile (RCS) map, with typical super cell characteristics.
Modification of the transglucosylation properties of α-glucosidases from Aspergillus oryzae and Aspergillus sojae via a single critical amino acid replacement
Authors: Kawano Atsushi , Matsumoto Yuji , Terada Atsushi , Tonozuka Takashi , Tada Sawaki , Kusumoto Ken-Ichi , Yasutake Nozomu
Published: May 2021

We constructed enzyme variants of the α-glucosidases from Aspergillus oryzae (AoryAgdS) and Aspergillus sojae (AsojAgdL) by mutating the amino acid residue at position 450. AoryAgdS_H450R acquired the ability to produce considerable amounts of α-1,6-transglucosylation products, whereas AsojAgdL_R450H changed to produce more α-1,3- and α-1,4-transglucosylation products than α-1,6-products. The 450th amino acid residue is critical for the transglucosylation of these α-glucosidases.
Risk of missing colorectal cancer with a COVID-adapted diagnostic pathway using quantitative faecal immunochemical testing
Authors: Maeda Y , Gray E , Figueroa J D , Hall P S , Weller D , Dunlop M G , Din F V N
Published: May 2021

Background

COVID-19 has brought an unprecedented challenge to healthcare services. The authors’ COVID-adapted pathway for suspected bowel cancer combines two quantitative faecal immunochemical tests (qFITs) with a standard CT scan with oral preparation (CT mini-prep). The aim of this study was to estimate the degree of risk mitigation and residual risk of undiagnosed colorectal cancer.

Method

Decision-tree models were developed using a combination of data from the COVID-adapted pathway (April–May 2020), a local audit of qFIT for symptomatic patients performed since 2018, relevant data (prevalence of colorectal cancer and sensitivity and specificity of diagnostic tools) obtained from literature and a local cancer data set, and expert opinion for any missing data. The considered diagnostic scenarios included: single qFIT; two qFITs; single qFIT and CT mini-prep; two qFITs and CT mini-prep (enriched pathway). These were compared to the standard diagnostic pathway (colonoscopy or CT virtual colonoscopy (CTVC)).

Results

The COVID-adapted pathway included 422 patients, whereas the audit of qFIT included more than 5000 patients. The risk of missing a colorectal cancer, if present, was estimated as high as 20.2 per cent with use of a single qFIT as a triage test. Using both a second qFIT and a CT mini-prep as add-on tests reduced the risk of missed cancer to 6.49 per cent. The trade-off was an increased rate of colonoscopy or CTVC, from 287 for a single qFIT to 418 for the double qFIT and CT mini-prep combination, per 1000 patients.

Conclusion

Triage using qFIT alone could lead to a high rate of missed cancers. This may be reduced using CT mini-prep as an add-on test for triage to colonoscopy or CTVC.
Social Work Practice with Ethnic Minorities during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Learning from the Arab Minority in Israel
Authors: Nouman Hani
Published: May 2021

Although the critical role of social workers in the fight against the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and support for communities affected by the virus was stressed in international declarations of the social work profession, how social workers fulfil their role in practice has remained virtually unexplored. This question is of greater importance when it comes to ethnic minority communities that may be disproportionately vulnerable to COVID-19 in light of inequities, discrimination and marginality. This study examined action strategies adopted by social workers in the public service in response to the challenges faced by ethnic minorities during the COVID-19 pandemic. For this purpose, twenty-five in-depth interviews were conducted with social workers employed in the public welfare services in Israel, who work with Arab communities. Research findings revealed seven action strategies that have the potential to provide protection and support to a minority population group during the pandemic, bridge language and cultural gaps and promote policies that strive for social justice. The discussion emphasises the need and importance of social workers to act in a socio-cultural–political context-sensitive manner in pandemic conditions, whilst demonstrating flexibility in addressing the changing and unique needs of their clients. Implications for policy, practice and research are presented.
Functional Interactions between Sensory and Memory Networks for Adaptive Behavior
Authors: Karlaftis Vasilis M , Giorgio Joseph , Zamboni Elisa , Frangou Polytimi , Rideaux Reuben , Ziminski Joseph J , Kourtzi Zoe
Published: May 2021

The brain’s capacity to adapt to sensory inputs is key for processing sensory information efficiently and interacting in new environments. Following repeated exposure to the same sensory input, brain activity in sensory areas is known to decrease as inputs become familiar, a process known as adaptation. Yet, the brain-wide mechanisms that mediate adaptive processing remain largely unknown. Here, we combine multimodal brain imaging (functional magnetic resonance imaging [fMRI], magnetic resonance spectroscopy) with behavioral measures of orientation-specific adaptation (i.e., tilt aftereffect) to investigate the functional and neurochemical mechanisms that support adaptive processing. Our results reveal two functional brain networks: 1) a sensory-adaptation network including occipital and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex regions that show decreased fMRI responses for repeated stimuli and 2) a perceptual-memory network including regions in the parietal memory network (PMN) and dorsomedial prefrontal cortex that relate to perceptual bias (i.e., tilt aftereffect). We demonstrate that adaptation relates to increased occipito-parietal connectivity, while decreased connectivity between sensory-adaptation and perceptual-memory networks relates to GABAergic inhibition in the PMN. Thus, our findings provide evidence that suppressive interactions between sensory-adaptation (i.e., occipito-parietal) and perceptual-memory (i.e., PMN) networks support adaptive processing and behavior, proposing a key role of memory systems in efficient sensory processing.
Ensuring High and Equitable COVID-19 Vaccine Uptake Among Patients With IBD
Authors: Caldera Freddy , Balzora Sophie , Hayney Mary S , Farraye Francis A , Cross Raymond K
Published: May 2021

The recent emergency use authorization of a third COVID-19 vaccine means that most patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) will soon be eligible to be vaccinated. Gastroenterology clinicians should be prepared to address patients’ concerns regarding safety and efficacy of vaccines. They should also strongly recommend that all their patients be vaccinated with a COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, they should be prepared to educate patients about logistics that will result in successful vaccination completion. All these measures will be crucial to ensure high uptake among their patients with IBD.
Melanin Transfer and Fate within Keratinocytes in Human Skin Pigmentation
Authors: Benito-Martínez Silvia , Salavessa Laura , Raposo Graça , Marks Michael S , Delevoye Cédric
Published: May 2021

Synopsis

Human skin and hair pigmentation play important roles in social behavior but also in photoprotection from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light. The main pigments in mammalian skin, the melanins, are synthesized within specialized organelles called melanosomes in melanocytes, which sit at the basal layer of the epidermis and the hair bulb. The melanins are then transferred from melanocytes to keratinocytes, where they accumulate perinuclearly in membrane-bound organelles as a “cap” above the nucleus. The mechanism of transfer, the nature of the pigmented organelles within keratinocytes, and the mechanism governing their intracellular positioning are all debated and poorly understood, but likely play an important role in the photoprotective properties of melanin in the skin. Here, we detail our current understanding of these processes and present a guideline for future experimentation in this area.
Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Incident HIV Infection During Pregnancy Predict Preterm Birth Despite Treatment
Authors: Ravindran Jayalakshmi , Richardson Barbra A , Kinuthia John , Unger Jennifer A , Drake Alison L , Osborn Lusi , Matemo Daniel , Patterson Janna , McClelland R Scott , John-Stewart Grace
Published: May 2021

Background

Identifying predictors of preterm birth (PTB) in high-burden regions is important as PTB is the leading cause of global child mortality.

Methods

This analysis was nested in a longitudinal study of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) incidence in Kenya. HIV-seronegative women enrolled in pregnancy had nucleic acid amplification tests (chlamydia and gonorrhea), rapid plasma reagin (syphilis), wet mount microscopy (Trichomonas and yeast), and Gram stain (bacterial vaginosis); sexually transmitted infection (STI) treatment was provided. PTB predictors were determined using log-binomial regression.

Results

Among 1244 mothers of liveborn infants, median gestational age at enrollment was 26 weeks (IQR, 22–31), and at delivery was 39.1 weeks (IQR, 37.1–40.9). PTB occurred in 302 women (24.3%). Chlamydia was associated with a 1.59-fold (P = .006), gonorrhea a 1.62-fold (P = .04), and incident HIV a 2.08-fold (P = .02) increased PTB prevalence. Vaginal discharge and cervical inflammation were associated with PTB, as were age ≤21 (prevalence ratio [PR] = 1.39, P = .001) and any STI (PR = 1.47, P = .001). Associations with chlamydia and incident HIV remained in multivariable models.

Conclusions

STIs and incident HIV in pregnancy predicted PTB despite treatment, suggesting the need for earlier treatment and interventions to decrease genital inflammation.
Sensitive Immunodetection of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Variants of Concern 501Y.V2 and 501Y.V1
Authors: Barlev-Gross Moria , Weiss Shay , Paran Nir , Yahalom-Ronen Yfat , Israeli Ofir , Nemet Ital , Kliker Limor , Zuckerman Neta , Glinert Itai , Noy-Porat Tal , Alcalay Ron , Rosenfeld Ronit , Levy Haim , Mazor Ohad , Mandelboim Michal , Mendelson Ella , Beth-Din Adi , Israely Tomer , Mechaly Adva
Published: May 2021

Emerging severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants may influence the effectiveness of existing laboratory diagnostics. In the current study we determined whether the British (20I/501Y.V1) and South African (20H/501Y.V2) SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern are detected with an in-house S1-based antigen detection assay, analyzing spiked pools of quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction–negative nasopharyngeal swab specimens. The assay, combining 4 monoclonal antibodies, allowed sensitive detection of both the wild type and the variants of concern, despite accumulation of several mutations in the variants’ S1 region—results suggesting that this combination, targeting distinct epitopes, enables both specificity and the universality.
Seroprevalence of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Among Skilled Nursing Facility Residents and Staff Members—Los Angeles County, August–September 2020
Authors: Malenfant Jason H , Eslami Michelle , Dao Bonnie L , Moore Leo , Green Nicole , Silver David , OYong Kelsey , Ruparelia Ashutosh , Fisher Rebecca , Wood Julia S , Faisal Mohammad , Washburn Faith , Shvartsblat Steve , Jewell Mirna P , Romo Tiffany , Foo Chelsea , Salazar Angela , Aguirre Suzette , Balter Sharon , Bhaurla Sandeep , Buenrrostro Sandra , Bui Kim , Cho Karen Young , Chun Katie , Civen Rachel , Clarke Anthony , Danza Phoebe , Fernandes Priyanka , Fountas Nicole , Gambon Marie , Gragnani Candace M , Griffin Amber , Guerra Lidia , Guerrero Annette , Hooshmand Kay , Claire Jarashow M , Knight Wendy , Kuo Alice A , Ngo Thoa , Nunez Denise M , Obara Aya , Rawson Katherine , Terashita Dawn , Rajagopalan Shobita , Rubin Zachary A , Gounder Prabhu
Published: May 2021

Background

The prevalence of current or past coronavirus disease 2019 in skilled nursing facility (SNF) residents is unknown because of asymptomatic infection and constrained testing capacity early in the pandemic. We conducted a seroprevalence survey to determine a more comprehensive prevalence of past coronavirus disease 2019 in Los Angeles County SNF residents and staff members.

Methods

We recruited participants from 24 facilities; participants were requested to submit a nasopharyngeal swab sample for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing and a serum sample for detection of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. All participants were cross-referenced with our surveillance database to identify persons with prior positive SARS-CoV-2 results.

Results

From 18 August to 24 September 2020, we enrolled 3305 participants (1340 residents and 1965 staff members). Among 856 residents providing serum samples, 362 (42%) had current or past SARS-CoV-2 infection. Of the 346 serology-positive residents, 199 (58%) did not have a documented prior positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR result. Among 1806 staff members providing serum, 454 (25%) had current or past SARS-CoV-2 infection. Of the 447 serology-positive staff members, 353 (79%) did not have a documented prior positive SARS-CoV-2 PCR result.

Conclusions

Past testing practices and policies missed a substantial number of SARS-CoV-2 infections in SNF residents and staff members.
Prevalence of ESBL-producing Escherichia coli in adults with and without HIV presenting with urinary tract infections to primary care clinics in Zimbabwe
Authors: Olaru Ioana D , Ferrand Rashida A , Chisenga Mutsawashe , Yeung Shunmay , Macrae Bruce , Chonzi Prosper , Stabler Richard A , Hopkins Heidi , Mabey David , Masunda Kudzai P E , Kranzer Katharina
Published: May 2021

Background

People living with HIV may be at increased risk for infections with resistant organisms. Infections with ESBL-producing organisms are of particular concern because they limit treatment options for severe Gram-negative infections in low-resource settings.

Objectives

To investigate the association between HIV status and urinary tract infections (UTIs) with ESBL-producing Escherichia coli.

Patients and methods

Cross-sectional study enrolling adults presenting with UTI symptoms to primary care clinics in Harare, Zimbabwe. Demographic and clinical data were collected during interviews and a urine sample was collected for culture from each participant. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed according to EUCAST recommendations.

Results

Of the 1164 who were enrolled into the study, 783 (64%) were female and 387 (33%) were HIV infected. The median age was 35.8 years. Urine cultures were positive in 338 (29.0%) participants, and the majority of bacterial isolates were E. coli (n = 254, 75.2%). The presence of ESBL was confirmed in 49/254 (19.3%) E. coli. Participants with HIV had a 2.13 (95% CI 1.05–4.32) higher odds of infection with ESBL-producing E. coli than individuals without HIV. Also, the prevalence of resistance to most antimicrobials was higher among participants with HIV.

Conclusions

This study found an association between HIV and ESBL-producing E. coli in patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of UTI to primary care in Harare. HIV status should be considered when prescribing empirical antimicrobial treatment.
Effect of feeding acidified or fermented barley using Limosilactobacillus reuteri with or without supplemental phytase on diet nutrient digestibility in growing pigs
Authors: Heyer Charlotte M E , Wang Li F , Beltranena Eduardo , Gänzle Michael G , Zijlstra Ruurd T
Published: May 2021

Fermentation of cereal grains may degrade myo-inositol 1,2,3,4,5,6-hexakis (dihydrogen phosphate) (InsP6) thereby increasing nutrient digestibility. Effects of chemical acidification or fermentation with Limosilactobacillus (L.) reuteri with or without phytase of high β-glucan hull-less barley grain on apparent ileal digestibility (AID) and apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD) of nutrients and gross energy (GE), standardized ileal digestibility (SID) of crude protein (CP) and amino acids (AAs), and standardized total tract digestibility (STTD) of P were assessed in growing pigs. Pigs were fed four mash barley-based diets balanced for water content: 1) unfermented barley (Control); 2) chemically acidified barley (ACD) with lactic acid and acidic acid (0.019 L/kg barley grain at a ratio of 4:1 [vol/vol]); 3) barley fermented with L. reuteri TMW 1.656 (Fermented without phytase); and 4) barley fermented with L. reuteri TMW 1.656 and phytase (Fermented with phytase; 500 FYT/kg barley grain). The acidification and fermentation treatments occurred for 24 h at 37 °C in a water bath. The four diets were fed to eight ileal-cannulated barrows (initial body weight [BW], 17.4 kg) for four 11-d periods in a double 4 × 4 Latin square. Barley grain InsP6 content of Control, ACD, Fermented without phytase, or Fermented with phytase was 1.12%, 0.59%, 0.52% dry matter (DM), or not detectable, respectively. Diet ATTD of DM, CP, Ca, and GE, digestible energy (DE), predicted net energy (NE) value, and urinary excretion of P were greater (P < 0.05) for ACD than Control. Diet ATTD of DM, CP, Ca, GE, DE and predicted NE value, urinary excretion of P was greater (P < 0.05), and diet AID of Ca and ATTD and STTD of P tended to be greater (P < 0.10) for Fermented without phytase than Control. Diet ATTD of GE was lower (P < 0.05) and diet ATTD and STTD of P, AID and ATTD of Ca was greater (P < 0.05) for Fermented with phytase than Fermented without phytase. Acidification or fermentation with/without phytase did not affect diet SID of CP and AA. In conclusion, ACD or Fermented without phytase partially degraded InsP6 in barley grain and increased diet ATTD of DM, CP, and GE, but not SID of CP and most AA in growing pigs. Fermentation with phytase entirely degraded InsP6 in barley grain and maximized P and Ca digestibility, thereby reducing the need to provide inorganic dietary P to meet P requirements of growing pigs.
Plant ontogenetic changes in vein and stomatal traits and their relationship with economic traits in leaves of three Mediterranean oaks
Authors: Mediavilla Sonia , Martín Ignacio , Escudero Alfonso
Published: May 2021

Aims

We compared vein and stomatal traits of seedlings and adults of three Mediterranean Quercus species. Previous work suggests that gas-exchange rates tend to be higher at the seedling stage than in adults. Our objective was to determine whether vein and stomatal traits vary throughout whole-plant ontogeny in parallel with the changes in gas-exchange rates. We addressed the following alternative hypotheses: hypothesis 1—seedlings show higher vein and stomatal densities than adults; and hypothesis 2—seedlings have lower investments in vascular tissues to reduce construction costs.

Methods

Ten specimens from each growth stage were randomly sampled for each species in a location in central-western Spain. We measured mean stomatal and vein traits (size and number of stomata per unit of leaf area, vein density, vein volume, vein to epidermis distance), leaf mass per area and lamina thickness.

Important Findings

Minor vein density and vein volume per area increased with tree age, which seems inconsistent with the ontogenetic trends in gas-exchange rates. This discrepancy is in support of our hypothesis 2, and it suggests that, at the seedling stage, reducing investments in vascular tissues in benefit of maximizing growth rates is a priority. Larger interveinal distances in seedlings were compensated by smaller vein to epidermis distances. The thin leaves of the seedlings may thus constitute as a necessary trait for achieving shorter path length distances for the transport of water to evaporation sites without the need for a strong investment in costly vascular tissues.
Grazing-induced legacy effects enhance plant adaption to drought by larger root allocation plasticity
Authors: Guo Feng-Hui , Li Xi-Liang , Yin Jing-Jing , Jimoh Saheed Olaide , Hou Xiang-Yang
Published: May 2021

Aims

To explore whether grazing-induced legacy effects on plants could benefit plants adaptation to drought.

Methods

A water-controlled experiment was conducted in the greenhouse, which with Agropyron cristatum and Carex korshinskyi collected from free-grazing and enclosed plots on a typical grassland in Inner Mongolia.

Important Findings

We found that A. cristatum and C. korshinskyi collected from the free-grazing plot were less affected by drought in terms of ramet biomass, ramet number and total biomass than those collected from the enclosed plot. The enhanced adaptation to drought for plants collected from the free-grazing plot should partly be ascribed to the larger root biomass allocation plasticity under drought treatment. Our findings suggest that grazing management can be used to improve the adaptation of grassland plants to climate change.
Underreporting of Purchases in the US Consumer Expenditure Survey
Authors: Eckman Stephanie
Published: May 2021

Motivated misreporting occurs when respondents give incorrect responses to survey questions to shorten the interview; studies have detected this behavior across many modes, topics, and countries. This paper tests whether motivated misreporting affects responses in a large survey of household purchases, the US Consumer Expenditure Interview Survey. The data from this survey inform the calculation of the official measure of inflation, among other uses. Using a parallel web survey and multiple imputation, this article estimates the size of the misreporting effect without experimentally manipulating questions in the survey itself. Results suggest that household purchases are underreported by approximately five percentage points in three sections of the first wave of the survey. The approach used here, involving a web survey built to mimic the expenditure survey, could be applied in other large surveys where budget or logistical constraints prevent experimentation.
From Cosmicflows distance moduli to unbiased distances and peculiar velocities
Authors: Hoffman Yehuda , Nusser Adi , Valade Aurélien , Libeskind Noam I , Tully R Brent
Published: May 2021

Surveys of galaxy distances and radial peculiar velocities can be used to reconstruct the large-scale structure. Other than systematic errors in the zero-point calibration of the galaxy distances the main source of uncertainties of such data is errors on the distance moduli, assumed here to be Gaussian and thus turning into lognormal errors on distances and velocities. Naively treated, this leads to spurious nearby outflow and strong infall at larger distances. The lognormal bias is corrected here and tested against mock data extracted from a ΛCDM simulation, designed to statistically follow the grouped Cosmicflows-3 (CF3) data. Considering a subsample of data points, all of which have the same true distances or the same redshifts, the lognormal bias arises because the means of the distributions of observed distances and velocities are skewed off the means of the true distances and velocities. However, the medians are invariant under the lognormal transformation. This invariance allows the Gaussianization of the distances and velocities and the removal of the lognormal bias. This bias Gaussianization correction (BGc) algorithm is tested against mock CF3 catalogues. The test consists of a comparison of the BGc estimated with the simulated distances and velocities and of an examination of the Wiener filter reconstruction from the BGc data. Indeed, the BGc eliminates the lognormal bias. The estimation of Hubble’s constant (H0) is also tested. The residual of the BGc-estimated H0 from the simulated values is $-0.6\pm 0.7{\, \rm km \ s^{-1}\, Mpc^{-1}}$, and is dominated by the cosmic variance. The BGc correction of the actual CF3 data yields $H_0=75.8\pm 1.1{\, \rm km \ s^{-1}\, Mpc^{-1}}$.
The varying kinematics of multiple ejecta from the black hole X-ray binary MAXI J1820 + 070
Authors: Wood C M , Miller-Jones J C A , Homan J , Bright J S , Motta S E , Fender R P , Markoff S , Belloni T M , Körding E G , Maitra D , Migliari S , Russell D M , Russell T D , Sarazin C L , Soria R , Tetarenko A J , Tudose V
Published: May 2021

During a 2018 outburst, the black hole X-ray binary MAXI J1820 + 070 was comprehensively monitored at multiple wavelengths as it underwent a hard to soft state transition. During this transition, a rapid evolution in X-ray timing properties and a short-lived radio flare were observed, both of which were linked to the launching of bi-polar, long-lived relativistic ejecta. We provide a detailed analysis of two Very Long Baseline Array observations, using both time binning and a new dynamic phase centre tracking technique to mitigate the effects of smearing when observing fast-moving ejecta at high angular resolution. We identify a second, earlier ejection, with a lower proper motion of 18.0 ± 1.1 mas d−1. This new jet knot was ejected 4 ± 1 h before the beginning of the rise of the radio flare, and 2 ± 1 h before a switch from type-C to type-B X-ray quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs). We show that this jet was ejected over a period of ∼6 h and thus its ejection was contemporaneous with the QPO transition. Our new technique locates the original, faster ejection in an observation in which it was previously undetected. With this detection, we revised the fits to the proper motions of the ejecta and calculated a jet inclination angle of (64 ± 5)°, and jet velocities of $0.97_{-0.09}^{+0.03}c$ for the fast-moving ejecta (Γ > 2.1) and (0.30 ± 0.05)c for the newly identified slow-moving ejection (Γ = 1.05 ± 0.02). We show that the approaching slow-moving component is predominantly responsible for the radio flare, and is likely linked to the switch from type-C to type-B QPOs, while no definitive signature of ejection was identified for the fast-moving ejecta.
The Earth-like Galactic cosmic ray intensity in the habitable zone of the M dwarf GJ 436
Authors: Mesquita A L , Rodgers-Lee D , Vidotto A A
Published: May 2021

Galactic cosmic rays are energetic particles important in the context of life. Many works have investigated the propagation of Galactic cosmic rays through the Sun’s heliosphere. However, the cosmic ray fluxes in M dwarf systems are still poorly known. Studying the propagation of Galactic cosmic rays through the astrospheres of M dwarfs is important to understand the effect on their orbiting planets. Here, we focus on the planetary system GJ 436. We perform simulations using a combined 1D cosmic ray transport model and 1D Alfvén-wave-driven stellar wind model. We use two stellar wind set-ups: one more magnetically dominated and the other more thermally dominated. Although our stellar winds have similar magnetic field and velocity profiles, they have mass-loss rates two orders of magnitude different. Because of this, they give rise to two different astrosphere sizes, one 10 times larger than the other. The magnetically dominated wind modulates the Galactic cosmic rays more at distances $\lt 0.2\,$ au than the thermally dominated wind due to a higher local wind velocity. Between 0.2 and 1 au the fluxes for both cases start to converge. However, for distances $\gt 10\,$ au, spatial diffusion dominates, and the flux of GeV cosmic rays is almost unmodulated. We find, irrespective of the wind regime, that the flux of Galactic cosmic rays in the habitable zone of GJ 436 (0.2–0.4 au) is comparable with intensities observed at Earth. On the other hand, around GJ 436 b (0.028 au), both wind regimes predict Galactic cosmic ray fluxes that are approximately 104 times smaller than the values observed at Earth.
The Investment Network, Sectoral Comovement, and the Changing U.S. Business Cycle
Authors: vom Lehn Christian , Winberry Thomas
Published: May 2021

We argue that the network of investment production and purchases across sectors is an important propagation mechanism for understanding business cycles. Empirically, we show that the majority of investment goods are produced by a few “investment hubs,” which are more cyclical than other sectors. We embed this investment network into a multisector business cycle model and show that sector-specific shocks to the investment hubs and their key suppliers have large effects on aggregate employment and drive down labor productivity. Quantitatively, we find that sector-specific shocks to hubs and their suppliers account for an increasing share of aggregate fluctuations over time, generating the declining cyclicality of labor productivity and other changes in business cycle patterns since the 1980s.
IMPROVED AGE- AND GENDER-SPECIFIC RADIATION RISK MODELS APPLIED ON COHORTS OF SWEDISH PATIENTS
Authors: Andersson Martin , Eckerman Keith , Pawel David , Almén Anja , Mattsson Sören
Published: May 2021

The aim of this study is to implement lifetime attributable risk (LAR) predictions for radiation induced cancers for Swedish cohorts of patients of various age and sex, undergoing diagnostic investigations by nuclear medicine methods. Methods: Calculations are performed on Swedish groups of patients with Paget's disease and with bone metastases from prostatic cancer and diagnosed with bone scintigraphy with an administration of 500 MBq 99mTc-phosphonate. Results: The inclusion of patient survival rates into the calculations lowers the induced radiation cancer risk, as it takes into account that cohorts of patients have shorter predicted survival times than the general population. Conclusion: LAR estimations could be valuable for referring physicians, nuclear medicine physicians, nurses, medical physicists, radiologists, and oncologists and as well as ethical committees for risk estimates for specific subgroups of patients. Caution is however advised with respect to application of LAR predictions to individuals (because of individual sensitivities, circumstances, etc.).
Biofoundries are a nucleating hub for industrial translation
Authors: Farzaneh Tabasum , Freemont Paul S
Published: May 2021

Contemporary synthetic biology embraces the entire innovation pipeline; it is a transformative technology platform impacting new applications and improving existing industrial products and processes. However, challenges still emerge at the interface of upstream and downstream processes, integral to the value chain. It is now clear that biofoundries have a key role to play in addressing this; they provide unique and accessible infrastructure to drive the standardization necessary to deliver systematic design and engineering of biological systems and workflows. As for other biofoundries, the success of the London Biofoundry has been in part due to its expertise in establishing channels for industrial translation through its extensive strategic collaborations. It has also become cemented as a key component of various consortia and partnerships that serve the broader bioeconomy and industrial strategies. Adopting a networked approach enables links to be made between infrastructure, researchers, industrialists and policy makers to de-risk the economic challenges of scale-up, as well as contribute to the growing bioeconomy.
Risk Factors for Shivering During Caesarean Section Under Spinal Anesthesia. A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Wódarski B. , Chutkowski R. , Banasiewicz J. , Moorthi K. , Wójtowicz S. , Malec-Milewska M. , Iohom G.
Published: May 2021

(Acta Anaesthesiol Scand. 2020;64:112–116)

Shivering is common in surgery and with spinal anesthesia, and its occurrence can negatively affect patients undergoing cesarean delivery. Shivering not only increases oxygen consumption up to three-fold, but it can be unpleasant and distracting to a new mother. The patho-mechanism of shivering is not clearly understood and prevention strategies vary widely.
Minimizing Surgical Blood Loss at Cesarean Hysterectomy for Placenta Previa With Evidence of Placenta Increta or Placenta Percreta: The State of Play in 2020
Authors: Kingdom J.C. , Hobson S.R. , Murji A. , Allen L. , Windrim R.C. , Lockhart E. , Collins S.L. , Soleymani Majd H. , Alazzam M. , Naaisa F. , Shamshirsaz A.A. , Belfort M.A. , Fox K.A.
Published: May 2021

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2020;223:322–329)

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is associated with notable surgical risks, especially in cases of placenta previa-percreta. Surgical blood loss is the key cause of morbidity or mortality in surgery for PAS. Multidisciplinary management of PAS has developed and improved, leading clinicians to reexamine the use of interventional radiology techniques and ligation of the anterior divisions of the internal iliac arteries. This article reports on developments in the care of patients with PAS, specifically those undergoing elective cesarean hysterectomy for placenta previa-percreta.
Perioperative Prophylactic Internal Iliac Artery Balloon Occlusion in the Prevention of Postpartum Hemorrhage in Placenta Previa: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yu S.C.H. , Cheng Y.K.Y. , Tse W.T. , Sahota D.S. , Chung M.Y. , Wong S.S.M. , Chan O.K. , Leung T.Y.
Published: May 2021

(Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2020;223:117.e1–13)

Placenta previa is a major cause of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and maternal death worldwide. As cesarean delivery rates have increased, so has the prevalence of placenta previa. Internal iliac artery balloon occlusion has been suggested as a preventive measure to reduce blood loss during cesarean delivery in these cases. This approach has been investigated in only one randomized controlled trial (RCT) for placenta accreta spectrum. This RCT found no benefit from this approach but observed adverse effects due to the procedure in 15.4% of cases. No RCTs have investigated prophylactic internal iliac artery balloon occlusion for placenta previa. The aim of this study was to determine whether this approach for placenta previa reduces postpartum hemorrhage and demonstrates greater clinical benefit over the risks.
Risk Factors for Severe Postpartum Haemorrhage: A Population-Based Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Davey M.-A. , Flood M. , Pollock W. , Cullinane F. , McDonald S.
Published: May 2021

(Aust N Z J Obstet Gynecol. 2020;60:522–532)

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a leading cause of maternal mortality and is associated with substantial morbidity and hospital utilization. While there has been extensive research on the risk factors for any PPH, there is less data on the risk factors for severe PPH. The aim of this study was to identify the characteristics associated with an increased risk for severe PPH.
Intrapartum Epidural Analgesia and Low Apgar Score Among Singleton Infants Born at Term: A Propensity Score Matched Study
Authors: Ravelli A.C.J. , Abu-Hanna A. , Eskes M. , de Groot C.J.M. , van der Post J.A.M.
Published: May 2021

(Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand. 2020;99:1155–1162)

While the infant mortality in at-term births is low in Western countries, a recent trend has developed wherein birth asphyxia (based on low Apgar score) is the leading cause of death in term infants in the Netherlands who were admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). Therefore, additional attention should be given to term neonates with low Apgar scores, and research on NICU admission should be emphasized as part of the assessment of perinatal health in this group of patients. The underlying risks for asphyxia include hypertensive disorders, maternal diabetes (both preexisting and gestational), non-cephalic presentation at birth, prolonged second stage of labor, and intrapartum epidural analgesia (EA). As EA is not generally used in the Netherlands, although its popularity has slowly increased in recent years, this environment is ideal for analyzing the effects of EA on full-term infants. This study aimed to assess the effects of EA on low Apgar score and subsequent NICU admission in term, singleton births and to analyze other underlying risk factors.