bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic conformal cooling improves injection molding
Authors: Kirchheim Andreas , Katrodiya Yogeshkumar , Zumofen Livia , Ehrig Frank , Wick Curdin
Published: March 2021

To achieve a certain visual quality or acceptable surface appearance in injection-molded components, a higher mold surface temperature is needed. In order to achieve this, injection molds can be dynamically tempered by integrating an active heating and cooling process inside the mold halves. This heating and cooling of the mold halves becomes more efficient when the temperature change occurs closer to the mold surface. Complex channels that carry cold or hot liquids can be manufactured close to the mold surface by using the layer by layer principle of additive manufacturing. Laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF), as an additive manufacturing process, has special advantages; in particular, so-called hybrid tools can be manufactured. For example, complex tool inserts with conformal cooling channels can be additively built on simple, machined baseplates. This paper outlines the thermal simulation carried out to optimize the injection molding process by use of dynamic conformal cooling. Based on the results of this simulation, a mold with conformal cooling channels was designed and additively manufactured in maraging steel (1.2709) and then experimentally tested.
Does sonification of action simulation training impact corticospinal excitability and audiomotor plasticity?
Authors: Castro Fabio , Osman Ladan , Di Pino Giovanni , Vuckovic Aleksandra , Nowicky Alexander , Bishop Daniel
Published: March 2021

Sonification is a sensory augmentation strategy whereby a sound is associated with, and modulated by, movement. Evidence suggests that sonification could be a viable strategy to maximize learning and rehabilitation. Recent studies investigated sonification of action observation, reporting beneficial effects, especially in Parkinson’s disease. However, research on simulation training—a training regime based on action observation and motor imagery, in which actions are internally simulated, without physical execution—suggest that action observation alone is suboptimal, compared to the combined use of action observation and motor imagery. In this study, we explored the effects of sonified action observation and motor imagery on corticospinal excitability, as well as to evaluate the extent of practice-dependent plasticity induced by this training. Nineteen participants were recruited to complete a practice session based on combined and congruent action observation and motor imagery (AOMI) and physical imitation of the same action. Prior to the beginning, participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups, one group (nine participants) completed the practice block with sonified AOMI, while the other group (ten participants) completed the practice without extrinsic auditory information and served as control group. To investigate practice-induced plasticity, participants completed two auditory paired associative stimulation (aPAS) protocols, one completed after the practice block, and another one completed alone, without additional interventions, at least 7 days before the practice. After the practice block, both groups significantly increased their corticospinal excitability, but sonification did not exert additional benefits, compared to non-sonified conditions. In addition, aPAS significantly increased corticospinal excitability when completed alone, but when it was primed by a practice block, no modulatory effects on corticospinal excitability were found. It is possible that sonification of combined action observation and motor imagery may not be a useful strategy to improve corticospinal, but further studies are needed to explore its relationship with performance improvements. We also confirm the neuromodulatory effect of aPAS, but its interaction with audiomotor practice remain unclear.
Number of Directions Determined by a Set in $$\mathbb {F}_{q}^{2}$$ and Growth in $$\mathrm {Aff}(\mathbb {F}_{q})$$
Authors: Dona Daniele
Published: March 2021

We prove that a set A of at most q non-collinear points in the finite plane $$\mathbb {F}_{q}^{2}$$

F

q

2

spans more than $${|A|}/\!{\sqrt{q}}$$

|
A
|

/

q

directions: this is based on a lower bound by Fancsali et al. which we prove again together with a different upper bound than the one given therein. Then, following the procedure used by Rudnev and Shkredov, we prove a new structural theorem about slowly growing sets in $$\mathrm {Aff}(\mathbb {F}_{q})$$

Aff
(

F
q

)

for any finite field $$\mathbb {F}_{q}$$

F
q

, generalizing the analogous results by Helfgott, Murphy, and Rudnev and Shkredov over prime fields.
A harmonically weighted filter for cyclical long memory processes
Authors: Maddanu Federico
Published: March 2021

The estimation of the long memory parameter d is a widely discussed issue in the literature. The harmonically weighted (HW) process was recently introduced for long memory time series with an unbounded spectral density at the origin. In contrast to the most famous fractionally integrated process, the HW approach does not require the estimation of the d parameter, but it may be just as able to capture long memory as the fractionally integrated model, if the sample size is not too large. Our contribution is a generalization of the HW model, denominated the Generalized harmonically weighted (GHW) process, which allows for an unbounded spectral density at $$k \ge 1$$

k
≥
1

frequencies away from the origin. The convergence in probability of the Whittle estimator is provided for the GHW process, along with a discussion on simulation methods. Fit and forecast performances are evaluated via an empirical application on paleoclimatic data. Our main conclusion is that the above generalization is able to model long memory, as well as its classical competitor, the fractionally differenced Gegenbauer process, does. In addition, the GHW process does not require the estimation of the memory parameter, simplifying the issue of how to disentangle long memory from a (moderately persistent) short memory component. This leads to a clear advantage of our formulation over the fractional long memory approach.
Health and longevity studies in C. elegans: the “healthy worm database” reveals strengths, weaknesses and gaps of test compound-based studies
Authors: Saul Nadine , Möller Steffen , Cirulli Francesca , Berry Alessandra , Luyten Walter , Fuellen Georg
Published: March 2021

Several biogerontology databases exist that focus on genetic or gene expression data linked to health as well as survival, subsequent to compound treatments or genetic manipulations in animal models. However, none of these has yet collected experimental results of compound-related health changes. Since quality of life is often regarded as more valuable than length of life, we aim to fill this gap with the “Healthy Worm Database” (http://healthy-worm-database.eu). Literature describing health-related compound studies in the aging model Caenorhabditis elegans was screened, and data for 440 compounds collected. The database considers 189 publications describing 89 different phenotypes measured in 2995 different conditions. Besides enabling a targeted search for promising compounds for further investigations, this database also offers insights into the research field of studies on healthy aging based on a frequently used model organism. Some weaknesses of C. elegans-based aging studies, like underrepresented phenotypes, especially concerning cognitive functions, as well as the convenience-based use of young worms as the starting point for compound treatment or phenotype measurement are discussed. In conclusion, the database provides an anchor for the search for compounds affecting health, with a link to public databases, and it further highlights some potential shortcomings in current aging research.
TNF-α Triggers RIP1/FADD/Caspase-8-Mediated Apoptosis of Astrocytes and RIP3/MLKL-Mediated Necroptosis of Neurons Induced by Angiostrongylus cantonensis Infection
Authors: Zhou Hongli , Zhou Minyu , Hu Yue , Limpanon Yanin , Ma Yubin , Huang Ping , Dekumyoy Paron , Maleewong Wanchai , Lv Zhiyue
Published: March 2021

Angiostrongylus cantonensis (AC) can cause severe eosinophilic meningitis or encephalitis in non-permissive hosts accompanied by apoptosis and necroptosis of brain cells. However, the explicit underlying molecular basis of apoptosis and necroptosis upon AC infection has not yet been elucidated. To determine the specific pathways of apoptosis and necroptosis upon AC infection, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis for gene expression microarray (accession number: GSE159486) of mouse brain infected by AC revealed that TNF-α likely played a central role in the apoptosis and necroptosis in the context of AC infection, which was further confirmed via an in vivo rescue assay after treating with TNF-α inhibitor. The signalling axes involved in apoptosis and necroptosis were investigated via immunoprecipitation and immunoblotting. Immunofluorescence was used to identify the specific cells that underwent apoptosis or necroptosis. The results showed that TNF-α induced apoptosis of astrocytes through the RIP1/FADD/Caspase-8 axis and induced necroptosis of neurons by the RIP3/MLKL signalling pathway. In addition, in vitro assay revealed that TNF-α secretion by microglia increased upon LSA stimulation and caused necroptosis of neurons. The present study provided the first evidence that TNF-α was secreted by microglia stimulated by AC infection, which caused cell death via parallel pathways of astrocyte apoptosis (mediated by the RIP1/FADD/caspase-8 axis) and neuron necroptosis (driven by the RIP3/MLKL complex). Our research comprehensively elucidated the mechanism of cell death after AC infection and provided new insight into targeting TNF-α signalling as a therapeutic strategy for CNS injury.
Observations of greenhouse gases as climate indicators
Authors: Bruhwiler Lori , Basu Sourish , Butler James H. , Chatterjee Abhishek , Dlugokencky Ed , Kenney Melissa A. , McComiskey Allison , Montzka Stephen A. , Stanitski Diane
Published: March 2021

Humans have significantly altered the energy balance of the Earth’s climate system mainly not only by extracting and burning fossil fuels but also by altering the biosphere and using halocarbons. The 3rd US National Climate Assessment pointed to a need for a system of indicators of climate and global change based on long-term data that could be used to support assessments and this led to the development of the National Climate Indicators System (NCIS). Here we identify a representative set of key atmospheric indicators of changes in atmospheric radiative forcing due to greenhouse gases (GHGs), and we evaluate atmospheric composition measurements, including non-CO2 GHGs for use as climate change indicators in support of the US National Climate Assessment. GHG abundances and their changes over time can provide valuable information on the success of climate mitigation policies, as well as insights into possible carbon-climate feedback processes that may ultimately affect the success of those policies. To ensure that reliable information for assessing GHG emission changes can be provided on policy-relevant scales, expanded observational efforts are needed. Furthermore, the ability to detect trends resulting from changing emissions requires a commitment to supporting long-term observations. Long-term measurements of greenhouse gases, aerosols, and clouds and related climate indicators used with a dimming/brightening index could provide a foundation for quantifying forcing and its attribution and reducing error in existing indicators that do not account for complicated cloud processes.
A phase Ib, open label, dose escalation trial of the anti-CD37 monoclonal antibody, BI 836826, in combination with ibrutinib in patients with relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia
Authors: Danilov Alexey V. , Spurgeon Stephen E. , Siddiqi Tanya , Quinson Anne-Marie , Maier Daniela , Smith Dionne , Brown Jennifer R.
Published: March 2021

BI 836826 is a chimeric immunoglobulin G1 antibody targeting CD37, a transmembrane protein expressed on normal and malignant B cells. This open-label, phase Ib, dose-escalation study was conducted to determine the recommended phase II dose (RP2D) of BI 836826 + ibrutinib in patients with relapsed/refractory chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Eligible patients received 420 mg/day of ibrutinib with escalating doses of BI 836826. BI 836826 was administered in 4-week cycles. After Cycle 12, patients achieving complete response (CR), CR with incomplete marrow recovery, or minimal residual disease-negative partial response could continue to receive BI 836826 + ibrutinib every 4 weeks for ≤ 12 additional cycles. Patients received either 100 mg (n = 3) or 200 mg (n = 3) BI 836826 + ibrutinib. In the 100 mg BI 836826 cohort, one patient received two cycles and two patients received 22 cycles of BI 836826. In the 200 mg BI 836826 cohort, patients received 12, 16 and 20 cycles of BI 836826, respectively. All patients discontinued BI 836826 and continued ibrutinib outside the trial. No dose-limiting toxicities were reported in the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) evaluation period. As the trial was discontinued before the MTD was reached, the RP2D was not determined. Grade 3/4 adverse events (AEs) were predominantly hematological. Pseudomonal bacteremia was the only drug-related AE of special interest. BI 836826 + ibrutinib did not exceed the MTD at doses up to 200 mg in patients with CLL. However, RP2D and MTD were not formally established, as the sponsor discontinued the trial.
How to deal with low-flow low-gradient aortic stenosis and reduced left ventricle ejection fraction: from literature review to tips for clinical practice
Authors: Contorni F. , Fineschi M. , Iadanza A. , Santoro A. , Mandoli G. E. , Cameli M.
Published: March 2021

Low-flow low-gradient aortic stenosis (LFLG AS) with reduced left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) is still a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. The aim of this paper is to review the latest evidences about the assessment of the valvular disease, usually difficult because of the low-flow status, and the therapeutic options. Special emphasis is given to the available diagnostic tools for the characterization of LFLG AS without functional reserve at stress echocardiography and to the factors that clinicians should evaluate to choose between surgical aortic valve repair, transcatheter aortic valve implantation, or medical therapy.
Investigating Botanical Tributes in Post-Medieval British Burials: Archaeological Evidence from Three Burial Grounds
Authors: Ives Rachel
Published: March 2021

Archaeological evidence from Britain shows botanical inclusions formed part of the post-medieval funeral. Findings from the analysis of three burial grounds consider the extent of demographic, socioeconomic, and local variation in the manner of tributes. Twenty-six of 1431 excavated burials showed evidence for flowers placed inside or bouquets or wreaths placed on top of the coffins, and adults and children had received botanical tributes. The use of tributes increased during the later nineteenth century but local variation existed in the manner and extent of botanical tributes adopted but trends can be affected by biases introduced by preservation and survival between different sites.
On the Betti numbers and Rees algebras of ideals with linear powers
Authors: Nicklasson Lisa
Published: March 2021

An ideal $$I \subset \mathbb {k}[x_1, \ldots , x_n]$$

I
⊂
k
[

x
1

,
…
,

x
n

]

is said to have linear powers if $$I^k$$

I
k

has a linear minimal free resolution, for all integers $$k>0$$

k
>
0

. In this paper, we study the Betti numbers of $$I^k$$

I
k

, for ideals I with linear powers. We provide linear relations on the Betti numbers, which holds for all ideals with linear powers. This is especially useful for ideals of low dimension. The Betti numbers are computed explicitly, as polynomials in k, for the ideal generated by all square-free monomials of degree d, for $$d=2, 3$$

d
=
2
,
3

or $$n-1$$

n
-
1

, and the product of all ideals generated by s variables, for $$s=n-1$$

s
=
n
-
1

or $$n-2$$

n
-
2

. We also study the generators of the Rees ideal, for ideals with linear powers. Particularly, we are interested in ideals for which the Rees ideal is generated by quadratic elements. This problem is related to a conjecture on matroids by White.
Confession as a Form of Knowledge-Power in the Problem of Sexuality
Authors: Kestilä Iiris
Published: March 2021

This article addresses two questions related to the discrimination of homosexuals in the British Armed Forces as illuminated in the judgments of the European Court of Human Rights in the casesSmith and Grady v. the United KingdomandBeck, Copp and Bazeley v. the United Kingdom. First, how does the military organization obtain knowledge about its subjects? Two works by Michel Foucault concerning the thematic of confession—The Will to KnowledgeandAbout the Beginning of the Hermeneutics of the Self: Two Lectures at Dartmouth—provide a foundation for answering this question. Second, what happens when this knowledge obtained by the military organization comes into contact with the legal system? In relation to this question, Foucauldian theories of law are discussed, namely the so-called ‘expulsion thesis’ and ‘polyvalence theory’. It is argued that the production of knowledge in the context of these cases is intertwined with the technique of confession. However, the confession does not only operate at the level of the military organization but also as an internal practice of the individual. When this knowledge then encounters the legal system, it appears that the law puts up a certain resistance towards other forms of power, e.g. disciplinary power. It is argued that this resistance is due to the law’s ‘strategic openness’, i.e. the possibility to harness the law to different strategic purposes, due to which law can never be fully subordinated by external powers.
Micro Freeze-Dryer and Infrared-Based PAT: Novel Tools for Primary Drying Design Space Determination of Freeze-Drying Processes
Authors: Harguindeguy Maitê , Fissore Davide
Published: March 2021

Purpose

Present (i) an infrared (IR)-based Process Analytical Technology (PAT) installed in a lab-scale freeze-dryer and (ii) a micro freeze-dryer (MicroFD®) as effective tools for freeze-drying design space calculation of the primary drying stage.

Methods

The case studies investigated are the freeze-drying of a crystalline (5% mannitol) and of an amorphous (5% sucrose) solution processed in 6R vials. The heat (Kv) and the mass (Rp) transfer coefficients were estimated: tests at 8, 13 and 26 Pa were carried out to assess the chamber pressure effect on Kv. The design space of the primary drying stage was calculated using these parameters and a well-established model-based approach. The results obtained using the proposed tools were compared to the ones in case Kv and Rp were estimated in a lab-scale unit through gravimetric tests and a thermocouple-based method, respectively.

Results

The IR-based method allows a non-gravimetric estimation of the Kv values while with the micro freeze-dryer gravimetric tests require a very small number of vials. In both cases, the obtained values of Kv and Rp, as well as the resulting design spaces, were all in very good agreement with those obtained in a lab-scale unit through the gravimetric tests (Kv) and the thermocouple-based method (Rp).

Conclusions

The proposed tools can be effectively used for design space calculation in substitution of other well-spread methods. Their advantages are mainly the less laborious Kv estimation process and, as far as the MicroFD® is concerned, the possibility of saving time and formulation material when evaluating Rp.
Investigating pollination strategies in disturbed habitats: the case of the narrow-endemic toadflax Linaria tonzigii (Plantaginaceae) on mountain screes
Authors: Biella Paolo , Akter Asma , Muñoz-Pajares Antonio Jesús , Federici Germano , Galimberti Andrea , Jersáková Jana , Labra Massimo , Mangili Federico , Tommasi Nicola , Mangili Luca
Published: March 2021

Plant mating systems may reflect an adaptation to a habitat type, with self-pollination being potentially common in unstable and disturbed conditions. We investigated the reproductive ecology of an Alpine, narrow-range toadflax,Linaria tonzigiiLona (Plantaginaceae), occurring in steep and dynamic mountain screes. We explored self-compatibility and spontaneous autogamy, seed viability, daily nectar production, pollinator behaviour and pollen transfer in wild populations, using hand pollination treatments, quantification of nectar volume, viability Tetrazolium assay, active pollinator sampling and video recordings, and UV-bright dust for pollen substitution. Afterex novosequencing of several genetic regions ofL. tonzigii, we performed a multi-marker phylogenetic analysis of 140Linariaspecies and tracked the occurrence of the self-compatibility trait. Our results showed that this species is self-compatible, pollinated mostly via spontaneous autogamy and pollinator-mediated geitonogamy, and self-pollinated seeds are as viable as cross-pollinated ones. Selfing could be due to pollinator rarity because, despite the studied species providing a high nectar volume, wild bees, moths and small beetles infrequently visited its flowers in the sparsely vegetated scree slopes. In addition, a preliminary survey showed a low genetic haplotype diversity in the study plant. Moreover, the phylogeny shows that self-compatibility is scattered in the tree, suggesting the adaptive nature of this reproductive trait in the genusLinaria. This study supports for theories that high prevalence of selfing is an adaptation to environments unfavourable for cross-pollination, and particularly where pollinators are rare, such as in perturbed, poorly vegetated high-elevation habitats.
Research on Transfer Learning of Vision-based Gesture Recognition
Authors: Wu Bi-Xiao , Yang Chen-Guang , Zhong Jun-Pei
Published: March 2021

Gesture recognition has been widely used for human-robot interaction. At present, a problem in gesture recognition is that the researchers did not use the learned knowledge in existing domains to discover and recognize gestures in new domains. For each new domain, it is required to collect and annotate a large amount of data, and the training of the algorithm does not benefit from prior knowledge, leading to redundant calculation workload and excessive time investment. To address this problem, the paper proposes a method that could transfer gesture data in different domains. We use a red-green-blue (RGB) Camera to collect images of the gestures, and use Leap Motion to collect the coordinates of 21 joint points of the human hand. Then, we extract a set of novel feature descriptors from two different distributions of data for the study of transfer learning. This paper compares the effects of three classification algorithms, i.e., support vector machine (SVM), broad learning system (BLS) and deep learning (DL). We also compare learning performances with and without using the joint distribution adaptation (JDA) algorithm. The experimental results show that the proposed method could effectively solve the transfer problem between RGB Camera and Leap Motion. In addition, we found that when using DL to classify the data, excessive training on the source domain may reduce the accuracy of recognition in the target domain.
The Utilization of Bauxite Residue with a Calcite-Rich Bauxite Ore in the Pedersen Process for Iron and Alumina Extraction
Authors: Lazou Adamantia , Van Der Eijk Casper , Tang Kai , Balomenos Efthymios , Kolbeinsen Leiv , Safarian Jafar
Published: March 2021

Metallurgical grade alumina is produced worldwide through the well-known Bayer process, which unavoidably generates bauxite residue (BR, also known as red mud) in almost equal amounts to alumina. This study aims the valorization of BR through a smelting-reduction process to obtain calcium aluminate slags that can be a proper feed for alumina recovery via the Pedersen process. It investigates the thermodynamics and characteristics of the slags and pig iron produced from mixtures of BR, a bauxite beneficiation byproduct, and lime. In this context, the evolution of the different phases in the slags is studied with advanced analytical techniques and thermodynamic calculations. According to the results, a CaO/Al2O3 mass ratio within 1.3 to 1.4 in the slags can yield more Al2O3-containing leachable phases, such as CaO·Al2O3 and 12CaO·7Al2O3. The cooling dictates the amount and the characteristics of these phases, and the slower cooling rate yields improved slag characteristics. The distribution of the elements between the slag and metal phases shows that iron is separated, and the majority of the P, Cr, Ni, and V are distributed in the produced pig iron, while S, Ti, and Si are mostly concentrated in the slags.
After the first wave and beyond lockdown: long-lasting changes in emergency department visit number, characteristics, diagnoses, and hospital admissions
Authors: Morello Fulvio , Bima Paolo , Ferreri Enrico , Chiarlo Michela , Balzaretti Paolo , Tirabassi Gloria , Petitti Paolo , Aprà Franco , Vallino Domenico , Carbone Giorgio , Pivetta Emanuele Emilio , Lupia Enrico
Published: March 2021

The first wave (FW) of COVID-19 led to a rapid reduction in total emergency department (ED) visits and hospital admissions for other diseases. Whether this represented a transient “lockdown and fear” phenomenon, or a more persisting trend, is unknown. We divided acute from post-wave changes in ED flows, diagnoses, and hospital admissions, in an Italian city experiencing a FW peak followed by nadir. This multicenter, retrospective, cross-sectional study involved five general EDs of a large Italian city (January–August 2020). Percent changes were calculated versus 2019, using four 14-day periods (FW peak, early/mid/late post-wave). ED visits were 147,446 in 2020, versus 214,868 in 2019. During the FW peak, visits were reduced by 66.4% (P < 0.001). The drop was maximum during daytime (69.8%) and for pediatric patients (89.4%). Critical triage codes were unchanged. Reductions were found for all non-COVID-19 diagnoses. Non-COVID-19 hospital admissions were reduced by 39.5% (P < 0.001), involving all conditions except hematologic, metabolic/endocrine, respiratory diseases, and traumas. In the early, mid, and late post-wave periods, visits were reduced by 25.4%, 25.3% and 23.5% (all P < 0.001) respectively. In the late period, reduction was greater for female (27.9%) and pediatric patients (44.6%). Most critical triage codes were unchanged. Oncological, metabolic/endocrine, and hematological diagnoses were unchanged, while other diagnoses had persistent reductions. Non-COVID-19 hospital admissions were reduced by 12.8% (P = 0.001), 6.3% (P = 0.1) and 12.2% (P = 0.001), respectively. Reductions in ED flows, led by non-critical codes, persisted throughout the summer nadir of COVID-19. Hospital admissions for non-COVID-19 diseases had transient changes.
Privacy-preserving neural networks with Homomorphic encryption: Challenges and opportunities
Authors: Pulido-Gaytan Bernardo , Tchernykh Andrei , Cortés-Mendoza Jorge M. , Babenko Mikhail , Radchenko Gleb , Avetisyan Arutyun , Drozdov Alexander Yu
Published: March 2021

Classical machine learning modeling demands considerable computing power for internal calculations and training with big data in a reasonable amount of time. In recent years, clouds provide services to facilitate this process, but it introduces new security threats of data breaches. Modern encryption techniques ensure security and are considered as the best option to protect stored data and data in transit from an unauthorized third-party. However, a decryption process is necessary when the data must be processed or analyzed, falling into the initial problem of data vulnerability. Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE) is considered the holy grail of cryptography. It allows a non-trustworthy third-party resource to process encrypted information without disclosing confidential data. In this paper, we analyze the fundamental concepts of FHE, practical implementations, state-of-the-art approaches, limitations, advantages, disadvantages, potential applications, and development tools focusing on neural networks. In recent years, FHE development demonstrates remarkable progress. However, current literature in the homomorphic neural networks is almost exclusively addressed by practitioners looking for suitable implementations. It still lacks comprehensive and more thorough reviews. We focus on the privacy-preserving homomorphic encryption cryptosystems targeted at neural networks identifying current solutions, open issues, challenges, opportunities, and potential research directions.
Quantitative evaluation of geological fluid evolution and accumulated mechanism: in case of tight sandstone gas field in central Sichuan Basin
Authors: Huang Ya-Hao , Tang You-Jun , Li Mei-Jun , Hong Hai-Tao , Wu Chang-Jiang , Zhang Ji-Zhen , Lu Xiao-Lin , Yang Xiao-Yong
Published: March 2021

Tight gas exploration plays an important part in China’s unconventional energy strategy. The tight gas reservoirs in the Jurassic Shaximiao Formation in the Qiulin and Jinhua Gas Fields of central Sichuan Basin are characterized by shallow burial depths and large reserves. The evolution of the fluid phases is a key element in understanding the accumulation of hydrocarbons in tight gas reservoirs. This study investigates the fluid accumulation mechanisms and the indicators of reservoir properties preservation and degradation in a tight gas reservoir. Based on petrographic observations and micro-Raman spectroscopy, pure CH4inclusions, pure CO2inclusions, hybrid CH4–CO2gas inclusions, and N2-rich gas inclusions were studied in quartz grains. The pressure–volume–temperature–composition properties (PVT-x) of the CH4and CO2bearing inclusions were determined using quantitative Raman analysis and thermodynamic models, while the density of pure CO2inclusions was calculated based on the separation of Fermi diad. Two stages of CO2fluid accumulation were observed: primary CO2inclusions, characterized by higher densities (0.874–1.020 g/cm3) and higher homogenization temperatures (> 210 °C) and secondary CO2inclusions, characterized by lower densities (0.514–0.715 g/cm3) and lower homogenization temperatures: ~ 180–200 °C). CO2inclusions with abnormally high homogenization temperatures are thought to be the result of deep hydrothermal fluid activity. The pore fluid pressure (44.0–58.5 MPa) calculated from the Raman shift of C–H symmetric stretching (v1) band of methane inclusions is key to understanding the development of overpressure. PT entrapment conditions and simulation of burial history can be used to constrain the timing of paleo-fluid emplacement. Methane accumulated in the late Cretaceous (~ 75–65 Ma), close to the maximum burial depth during the early stages of the Himalayan tectonic event while maximum overpressure occurred at ~ 70 Ma, just before uplift. Later, hydrocarbon gas migrated through the faults and gradually displaced the early emplaced CO2in the reservoirs accompanied by a continuous decrease in overpressure during and after the Himalayan event, which has led to a decrease in the reservoir sealing capabilities. The continuous release of overpressure to present-day conditions indicates that the tectonic movement after the Himalayan period has led to a decline in reservoir conditions and sealing properties.
Christians, Muslims and Traditional Worshippers in Nigeria: Estimating the Relative Proportions from Eleven Nationally Representative Social Surveys
Authors: McKinnon Andrew
Published: March 2021

Background

The absence of census data on religious identification in Nigeria since 1963 leaves much uncertainty about the most basic religious composition of the country. It is generally accepted that identification with traditional worship declined over the middle of the twentieth century as identification with Islam and Christianity increased, leaving these the two dominant religious groups in the country. The current relative proportions of Christians and Muslims has often been the subject of conjecture, guesswork and assertion, as have trajectories of growth or decline.

Purpose

Where researchers have used sound data to address this question, they have often drawn on a single survey, or, if on multiple data sources, it is unclear how the different estimates the data provides are reconciled. This paper seeks to address these gaps to construct a better picture of the religious composition of Nigeria, and to consider the trajectory of change.

Methods

This study presents data from 11 nationally representative surveys of adults conducted between 1990 and 2018. Surveys include four waves of the World Values Survey, five waves of the Afrobarometer survey, The Pew Tolerance and Tension survey, and the Nigerian General Household Survey of 2010.

Results

The results show that identification with Christianity is likely to have been the majority among Nigerian adults through this period. Evidence suggests that identification with Christianity was still growing in the first half of the 1990s, to a high point of 69% of the adult population. This growth was associated with the tail of the decline of identification with traditional worship. Thereafter identification with Christianity has declined in proportional terms as identification with Islam has increased. Evidence is consistent with literature that suggests that this change is driven by differences in fertility, rather than by religious identity switching.

Conclusion and Implications

Trends presented suggest that the Muslim-identified population is likely on track to have become an absolute majority of Nigerian adults, possibly within a decade with widespread implications, including for electoral politics.
The Health Cost of Transport in Cities
Authors: Gössling Stefan , Nicolosi Jessica , Litman Todd
Published: March 2021

Purpose of Review

The study aims to provide an understanding of health cost assessments of different transport modes in urban contexts, and their relevance for transport planning and political decision-making.

Recent Findings

There is strong evidence that motorized transportation imposes a high health cost on society, and specifically children. In contrast, active transport is a very significant health benefit.

Economic analyses support urban change in favor of compact neighborhoods and public transit, as well as infrastructure exclusively devoted to active transport. Private cars need to be restricted because of the high cost they impose on society.
Thyroid hormone action in epidermal development and homeostasis and its implications in the pathophysiology of the skin
Authors: Mancino G. , Miro C. , Di Cicco E. , Dentice M.
Published: March 2021

Thyroid hormones (THs) are key endocrine regulators of tissue development and homeostasis. They are constantly released into the bloodstream and help to regulate many cell functions. The principal products released by the follicular epithelial cells are T3 and T4. T4, which is the less active form of TH, is produced in greater amounts than T3, which is the most active form of TH. This mechanism highlights the importance of the peripheral regulation of TH levels that goes beyond the central axis. Skin, muscle, liver, bone and heart are finely regulated by TH. In particular, skin is among the target organs most influenced by TH, which is essential for skin homeostasis. Accordingly, skin diseases are associated with an altered thyroid status. Alopecia, dermatitis and vitiligo are associated with thyroiditis and alopecia and eczema are frequently correlated with the Graves’ disease. However, only in recent decades have studies started to clarify the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of TH in epidermal homeostasis. Herein, we summarize the most frequent clinical epidermal alterations linked to thyroid diseases and review the principal mechanisms involved in TH control of keratinocyte proliferation and functional differentiation. Our aim is to define the open questions in this field that are beginning to be elucidated thanks to the advent of mouse models of altered TH metabolism and to obtain novel insights into the physiopathological consequences of TH metabolism on the skin.
A Review on the Application of Friction Models in Wheel-Rail Adhesion Calculation
Authors: Yuan Zewang , Wu Mengling , Tian Chun , Zhou Jiajun , Chen Chao
Published: March 2021

Friction is the bond linking the tangential and normal forces at the wheel-rail interface. Modeling friction is the precondition for the wheel-rail adhesion calculation. In this work, the critical role of friction in the calculation of wheel-rail adhesion is discussed. Four types of friction models (Coulomb model, linear model + Coulomb model, rational model and exponential model) which are commonly used for the calculation of wheel-rail adhesion are reviewed, in particular with regard to their structural characteristics and application state. The adhesion coefficients calculated from these four friction models using the Polach model are analyzed by comparison with the measured values. The rational model and the exponential model are more flexible for defining the falling friction, and the adhesion coefficient calculated by these two models is highly consistent with the measured one. Though the rational model and exponential model describe the falling friction well, the existing friction models are not applicable for calculating adhesion after considering more realistic factors, such as thermal effect, contaminants and so on. Developing a novel and practical friction model to accurately describe the wheel-rail friction behavior is still an essential but challenging and significant task. This review provides a reference for the selection of existing friction models and generates fresh insights into developing novel and practical friction models.
Governing the Countryside: Microsocial Analysis and Institutional Construction in Late Eighteenth-Century Río de la Plata
Authors: Barriera Darío G.
Published: March 2021

At the end of the eighteenth century, the Hispanic Monarchy imagined new solutions for governing its territories between the south of the Amazon, the Strait of Magellan, and the Andean cordillera. Populated by farmers and shepherds, these huge rural areas remained poorly known to the authorities. Yet among the reforms conducted in America by Charles III—including the adoption of the intendancy system—none tackled the administration of the countryside head-on. This problem is key for two reasons. First, most of the population of the Río de la Plata lived in rural areas. Second, the enormous distances that separated these areas from the urban centers where representatives of the Monarchy resided (Santa Fe, Buenos Aires, or Madrid) posed a challenge that the authorities had to face in order to govern these populations. Shifting from a “top-down” perspective to a ground-level analysis attentive to local dynamics makes it possible to shed new light on how these spaces far removed from the centers of power functioned. Through the microhistorical analysis of a series of institutional transformations affecting the Río de la Plata, this article shows how subjects came to participate in the government of their region, mobilizing their networks to create a community and institutions on a local scale.
Clinical research during the COVID-19 pandemic: The role of virtual visits and digital approaches
Authors: Loucks Tammy L. , Tyson Clare , Dorr David , Garovic Vesna D. , Hill James , McSwain S. David , Radovick Sally , Sonnenberg Frank A. , Weis Jennifer A. , Brady Kathleen T.
Published: March 2021

Clinical trials are a fundamental tool in evaluating the safety and efficacy of new drugs, medical devices, and health system interventions. Clinical trial visits generally involve eligibility assessment, enrollment, intervention administration, data collection, and follow-up, with many of these steps performed during face-to-face visits between participants and the investigative team. Social distancing, which emerged as one of the mainstay strategies for reducing the spread of SARS-CoV-2, has presented a challenge to the traditional model of clinical trial conduct, causing many research teams to halt all in-person contacts except for life-saving research. Nonetheless, clinical research has continued during the pandemic because study teams adapted quickly, turning to virtual visits and other similar methods to complete critical research activities. The purpose of this special communication is to document this rapid transition to virtual methodologies at Clinical and Translational Science Awards hubs and highlight important considerations for future development. Looking beyond the pandemic, we envision that a hybrid approach, which implements remote activities when feasible but also maintains in-person activities as necessary, will be adopted more widely for clinical trials. There will always be a need for in-person aspects of clinical research, but future study designs will need to incorporate remote capabilities.
Effect of surgery, delivery device and head position on sinus irrigant penetration in a cadaver model
Authors: Mozzanica F , Preti A , Bandi F , Fazio E , Cardella A , Gallo S , Bulgheroni C , Yakirevitch A , Gera R , Castelnuovo P
Published: March 2021

Objective

The extent of surgery, the type of device used and head position may influence nasal irrigation. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of topical irrigant delivery to the paranasal sinuses according to these factors.

Method

Four cadaveric heads underwent four stepwise endoscopic dissections. Irrigations were evaluated after every stage using different delivery devices (squeeze-bottle, gravity-dependent device and syringe) in two head positions (nose-to-sink and vertex down). Irrigant penetration into each sinus was estimated using a four-point scale.

Results

A significant positive effect of surgery was demonstrated for each sinus as well as for the delivery device. High-volume irrigant devices are more effective, and the head position plays a significant role in irrigant distribution to the frontal sinus.

Conclusion

This study further confirms the efficacy of high-volume irrigant devices. A vertex down position during the irrigation could improve delivery to the frontal sinus, and the widening of the ostia increases irrigant access to the sinuses.
Molecular cytogenetic analysis of a triploid population of the human broad tapeworm, Dibothriocephalus latus (Diphyllobothriidea)
Authors: Orosová Martina , Marková Anna , Provazníková Irena , Oros Mikuláš , Radačovská Alžbeta , Čadková Zuzana , Marec František
Published: March 2021

The large-sized tapeworm Dibothriocephalus latus is known as the broad or fish-borne cestode of mammals that is capable to infect humans and cause diphyllobothriosis. Recently, molecular data on D. latus has been accumulating in the literature and a complete genome sequence has been published; however, little is known about the karyotype and chromosome architecture. In this study, an in-depth karyological analysis of 2 D. latus specimens was carried out. The plerocercoids originated from a perch caught in subalpine Lake Iseo (Italy) and the tapeworms were reared in hamsters. Both specimens contained cells with a highly variable number of chromosomes ranging from18 to 27. Nevertheless, the largest portion of mitotic figures (47%) showed a number corresponding to the triploid set, 3n = 27. Accordingly, the karyotype of the analyzed specimens consisted of 9 triplets of metacentric chromosomes. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with the 18S rDNA probe clearly demonstrated the presence of 3 clusters of hybridization signals on the triplet of chromosome 7, thus confirming the triploid status of the specimens. FISH with a telomeric (TTAGGG)n probe confined hybridization signals exclusively to the terminal chromosomal regions, supporting the earlier findings that this repetitive motif is a conserved feature of tapeworm telomeres.
An individualized treatment rule to optimize probability of remission by continuation, switching, or combining antidepressant medications after failing a first-line antidepressant in a two-stage randomized trial
Authors: Kessler Ronald C. , Furukawa Toshi A. , Kato Tadashi , Luedtke Alex , Petukhova Maria , Sadikova Ekaterina , Sampson Nancy A.
Published: March 2021

Background

There is growing interest in using composite individualized treatment rules (ITRs) to guide depression treatment selection, but best approaches for doing this are not widely known. We develop an ITR for depression remission based on secondary analysis of a recently published trial for second-line antidepression medication selection using a cutting-edge ensemble machine learning method.

Methods

Data come from the SUN(^_^)D trial, an open-label, assessor blinded pragmatic trial of previously-untreated patients with major depressive disorder from 48 clinics in Japan. Initial clinic-level randomization assigned patients to 50 or 100 mg/day sertraline. We focus on the 1549 patients who failed to remit within 3 weeks and were then rerandomized at the individual-level to continuation with sertraline, switching to mirtazapine, or combining mirtazapine with sertraline. The outcome was remission 9 weeks post-baseline. Predictors included socio-demographics, clinical characteristics, baseline symptoms, changes in symptoms between baseline and week 3, and week 3 side effects.

Results

Optimized treatment was associated with significantly increased cross-validated week 9 remission rates in both samples [5.3% (2.4%), p = 0.016 50 mg/day sample; 5.1% (2.7%), p = 0.031 100 mg/day sample] compared to randomization (30.1–30.8%). Optimization was also associated with significantly increased remission in both samples compared to continuation [24.7% in both: 11.2% (3.8%), p = 0.002 50 mg/day sample; 11.7% (3.9%), p = 0.001 100 mg/day sample]. Non-significant gains were found for optimization compared to switching or combining.

Conclusions

An ITR can be developed to improve second-line antidepressant selection, but replication in a larger study with more comprehensive baseline predictors might produce stronger and more stable results.
Working in old age in Mexico: implications for cognitive functioning
Authors: Rodriguez Francisca S. , Saenz Joseph
Published: March 2021

Previous studies indicate that occupation might affect cognitive functioning in late life. As people in low- and middle-income countries often have to work until late life, we sought to investigate if there are cognitive benefits to working later into life and whether cognitive function deteriorates after exiting the labour force. We analysed longitudinal data from the Mexican Health and Aging Study (MHAS), a nationally representative sample of Mexican adults age 50+ (N = 7,375), that assessed cognitive functioning by verbal learning, delayed recall and visual scanning. Analyses were carried out using mixed-effects modelling corrected for the influence of gender, instrumental activities of daily living, diabetes, stroke, hypertension, depression, income and marital status. Results suggest that working actively, compared to exiting the workforce, was associated with cognitive performance only in context with occupation. Domestic workers had a faster decline in verbal learning (b= −0.02,p= 0.020) and delayed recall (b= −0.02,p= 0.036) if they continued working actively and people working in administration (b= 0.03,p= 0.007), sales (b= 0.02,p= 0.044) and educators (b= 0.03,p= 0.049) had a slower decline in visual scanning if they continued working in old age. Our findings indicate that continued participation in the labour force in old age does not necessarily come with cognitive benefits. Whether or not working actively in later life protects or even harms cognitive functioning is likely to depend on the type of job.