bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tropical climate influences affects, sensation of fatigue and environmental perceptions (El clima tropical influye sobre los afectos, la sensación de fatiga y las percepciones del medio ambiente)
Authors: Robin Nicolas , Sinnapah Stéphane , Hue Olivier , Coudevylle Guillaume R.
Published: September 2021

The current experimental study evaluated how a tropical climate (i.e., wet and hot environment) influences positive and negative affects, sensation of fatigue and environmental perceptions (i.e., comfort and thermal sensations). A convenience sampling of students (30 females and 30 males, Mage = 21.94 years, age range: 19–28 years) who lived all the year in the French West Indies performed two conditions in Tropical Climate (TC) and in Neutral Climate (NC), counterbalanced. During each climate condition, they completed the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule and a questionnaire evaluating feeling of fatigue, thermal and comfort sensations. This original study revealed that TC reduces positive affect (PA) scores, whereas no significant statistical difference was revealed for negative affect (NA). In addition, participants revealed lower thermal and comfort sensations and a greater feeling of fatigue in TC than in NC. These results are in line with the suggestion that TC can negatively influence subjective states compared with a temperate climate. Moreover, TC could also have a potential fatigue-enhancing effect and negatively influences comfort sensations. The impact of TC on affective states is discussed.
Alveolar macrophages and epithelial cells: The art of living together
Authors: Clements Derek , Idoyaga Juliana
Published: September 2021

In this issue of JEM, Gschwend et al. (2021. J. Exp. Med.https://doi.org/10.1084/jem.20210745) reveal the indispensable role of alveolar epithelial cells type 2 in controlling the density of alveolar macrophages. This study highlights the intricate crosstalk that lung stroma and macrophages undergo to maintain homeostasis.
Strong inelastic scattering of slow electrons by optical near fields of small nanostructures
Authors: Hergert Germann , Wöste Andreas , Groß Petra , Lienau Christoph
Published: September 2021

The interaction of swift, free-space electrons with confined optical near fields has recently sparked much interest. It enables a new type of photon-induced near-field electron microscopy, mapping local optical near fields around nanoparticles with exquisite spatial and spectral resolution and lies at the heart of quantum state manipulation and attosecond pulse shaping of free electrons. The corresponding interaction of optical near fields with slow electrons has achieved much less attention, even though the lower electron velocity may enhance electron-near-field coupling for small nanoparticles. A first-principle theoretical study of such interactions has been reported very recently by N Talebi (2020 Phys. Rev. Lett.
125 080401). Building up on this work, we investigate, both analytically and numerically, the inelastic scattering of slow electrons by near fields of small nanostructures. For weak fields, this results in distinct angular diffraction patterns that represent, to first order, the Fourier transform of the transverse variation of the scalar near-field potential along the direction perpendicular to the electron propagation. For stronger fields, scattering by the near-field component along the electron trajectory results in a break-up of the energy spectrum into multiple photon orders. Their angular diffraction patterns are given by integer powers of the Fourier transform of the transverse potential variation and are shifting in phase with photon order. Our analytical model offers an efficient approach for studying the effects of electron kinetic energy, near field shape and strength on the slow-electron diffraction pattern and thus may facilitate the experimental observation of these phenomena by, e.g. ultrafast low-energy point-projection microscopy or related techniques. This could provide simultaneous access to different vectorial components of the optical near fields of small nanoparticles.
Early molecular markers for retrospective biodosimetry and prediction of acute health effects
Authors: Abend M , Blakely W F , Ostheim P , Schuele S , Port M
Published: September 2021

Radiation-induced biological changes occurring within hours and days after irradiation can be potentially used for either exposure reconstruction (retrospective dosimetry) or the prediction of consecutively occurring acute or chronic health effects. The advantage of molecular protein or gene expression (GE) (mRNA) marker lies in their capability for early (1–3 days after irradiation), high-throughput and point-of-care diagnosis, required for the prediction of the acute radiation syndrome (ARS) in radiological or nuclear scenarios. These molecular marker in most cases respond differently regarding exposure characteristics such as e.g. radiation quality, dose, dose rate and most importantly over time. Changes over time are in particular challenging and demand certain strategies to deal with. With this review, we provide an overview and will focus on already identified and used mRNA GE and protein markers of the peripheral blood related to the ARS. These molecules are examined in light of ‘ideal’ characteristics of a biomarkers (e.g. easy accessible, early response, signal persistency) and the validation degree. Finally, we present strategies on the use of these markers considering challenges as their variation over time and future developments regarding e.g. origin of samples, point of care and high-throughput diagnosis.
An efficient algorithm of dislocation-precipitate interactions for single crystal nickel-based superalloys within discrete dislocation dynamics and its application
Authors: Huang Song , Huang Minsheng
Published: September 2021

In this paper, the discrete dislocation dynamics (DDD) framework for single crystal nickel-based superalloys (SCNBSs) modeling is extended to simulate the superdislocation pairs shearing numerous precipitates more efficiently. An adaptive dislocation segment meshing scheme by specially treating the dislocation segments deposited on the γ/γ′ interfaces is also used to decrease the computational expense. In addition, the MPI parallel algorithm is also realized to increase the computational speed. Through this DDD framework, the size-related plastic response of SCNBSs microcrystal containing collections of precipitates is systematically investigated. Two types of SCNBSs microcrystal samples, one with intact precipitates and the other with partial precipitates truncated by free surfaces, are established for different sample sizes. The influence of the sample size, two types of boundary, and the coherency stress induced by lattice mismatch between the two phases are discussed. The results show that the influence of sample size on the yield strength and the dispersity of stress–strain curves are relatively weak when more than four precipitates across the cross section. And the effect of sample size on deformation mode and the dislocation density is still evident for all the considered sample sizes. For two types (intact and truncated precipitates) of SCNBSs microcrystal samples, the remarkable difference in their mechanical responses and dislocation evolution appears when there is only one precipitate across the cross section. In addition, the misfit stress can significantly change the dislocation distribution in different channels. However, it has less influence on the tensile stress–strain response for the considered tensile loading condition. Our results indicate that to properly characterize the global mechanical behavior of bulk SCNBSs by micro-test, the microcrystal sample should present more than sixteen whole precipitates across the cross section.
Molecular dynamics simulation on PyC interfacial failure mechanism and shear strength of SiC/SiC composites
Authors: Niu Xuming , Bian Jie , Chen Xihui , Ding Junjie , Sun Zhigang , Song Yingdong
Published: September 2021

In this paper, a molecular dynamics simulation model was established for SiC/pyrolytic carbon (PyC)/SiC composites manufactured through a chemical vapor phase infiltration (CVI) process based on microscopic observation results to investigate the shear strength and failure mechanism of PyC interphase. The simulation results showed that due to the PyC interphase’s disordered structure, the carbon layer underwent non-planar shear, overlap, flip, and deflection during the shearing process, which increased the shear strength of the composites. In addition, when the strength of the PyC interphase was lower than the bonding strength with a fiber and matrix, failure was caused by the internal breakage of the PyC interphase; when the strength of the PyC interphase was higher than the bonding strength with a fiber or matrix, failure was caused by the debonding of the PyC interphase with a fiber or matrix.
Effects of impulsive harvesting and an evolving domain in a diffusive logistic model*
Authors: Meng Yue , Lin Zhigui , Pedersen Michael
Published: September 2021

In order to understand how the combination of the evolution of a domain and impulsive harvesting affect the dynamics of a population, we investigate a diffusive logistic population model with impulsive harvesting on a periodically evolving domain. Initially the ecological reproduction index of the impulsive problem is introduced and given by an explicit formula, which depends on the domain evolution rate and the impulsive function. Then the threshold dynamics of the population subject to monotone or nonmonotone impulsive harvesting are established based on this index. Finally numerical simulations are carried out to illustrate our theoretical results, and these reveal that a large domain evolution rate can improve the populations ability to survive, no matter which impulsive harvesting takes place. On the contrary, impulsive harvesting has a negative effect on the survival of the population, and can even lead to its extinction.
Normalized solutions for the Kirchhoff equation on noncompact metric graphs
*
Authors: Qi Shijie
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we are concerned with normalized solutions for the Kirchhoff equation on noncompact metric graphs

G

. We first study the case that the graph

G

is the real line and the half line respectively, which improves the results in the literature. Then we consider the existence, nonexistence and uniqueness of the normalized ground state solutions on more general noncompact metric graphs. It can be observed from the results that the existence of the normalized solution depends not only on the mass μ but also on the topology and metric properties of

G

.
Convolutional neural network based attenuation correction for 123I-FP-CIT SPECT with focused striatum imaging
Authors: Chen Yuan , Goorden Marlies C , Beekman Freek J
Published: September 2021

SPECT imaging with 123I-FP-CIT is used for diagnosis of neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s disease. Attenuation correction (AC) can be useful for quantitative analysis of 123I-FP-CIT SPECT. Ideally, AC would be performed based on attenuation maps (

μ

-maps) derived from perfectly registered CT scans. Such

μ

-maps, however, are most times not available and possible errors in image registration can induce quantitative inaccuracies in AC corrected SPECT images. Earlier, we showed that a convolutional neural network (CNN) based approach allows to estimate SPECT-aligned

μ

-maps for full brain perfusion imaging using only emission data. Here we investigate the feasibility of similar CNN methods for axially focused 123I-FP-CIT scans. We tested our approach on a high-resolution multi-pinhole prototype clinical SPECT system in a Monte Carlo simulation study. Three CNNs that estimate

μ

-maps in a voxel-wise, patch-wise and image-wise manner were investigated. As the added value of AC on clinical 123I-FP-CIT scans is still debatable, the impact of AC was also reported to check in which cases CNN based AC could be beneficial. AC using the ground truth

μ

-maps (GT-AC) and CNN estimated

μ

-maps (CNN-AC) were compared with the case when no AC was done (No-AC). Results show that the effect of using GT-AC versus CNN-AC or No-AC on striatal shape and symmetry is minimal. Specific binding ratios (SBRs) from localized regions show a deviation from GT-AC

≤

2.5% for all three CNN-ACs while No-AC systematically underestimates SBRs by 13.1%. A strong correlation (

r

≥

0.99) was obtained between GT-AC based SBRs and SBRs from CNN-ACs and No-AC. Absolute quantification (in kBq ml−1) shows a deviation from GT-AC within 2.2% for all three CNN-ACs and of 71.7% for No-AC. To conclude, all three CNNs show comparable performance in accurate

μ

-map estimation and 123I-FP-CIT quantification. CNN-estimated

μ

-map can be a promising substitute for CT-based

μ

-map.
Strong coupling of Bloch surface waves and excitons in ZnO up to 430 K
Authors: Henn S , Grundmann M , Sturm C
Published: September 2021

We report on the investigation and observation of Bloch surface wave polaritons, resulting from the interaction between excitons in ZnO and a Bloch surface wave supported by a distributed Bragg reflector (DBR), for temperatures up to 430 K. The samples were fabricated using pulsed laser deposition and consist of a DBR made of 6.5 layer pairs of yttrica-stabilized zirconia and Al2O3 with a ZnO surface layer. We measured the reflectivity of transverse electric modes using a SiO2 prism in Kretschmann–Raether configuration, giving access to high in-plane momenta. Whereas the lower polariton branch was clearly observable, the upper polariton branch was not visible, due to the strong absorption in ZnO above the excitonic resonance. By employing a coupled oscillator model for the interaction between the bare surface mode and exciton, we derived a corresponding Rabi splitting between 100–192 meV at 294 K, which decreases with increasing temperature.
Two-proton radioactivity of ground and excited states within a unified fission model *
Authors: Xing Fengzhu , Cui Jianpo , Wang Yanzhao , Gu Jianzhong
Published: September 2021

A unified fission model is extended to study two-proton radioactivity of the ground states of nuclei, and a good agreement between the experimental and calculated half-lives is found. The two-proton radioactivity half-lives of the ground states of some probable candidates are predicted within this model by inputting the released energies taken from the AME2020 table. It is shown that the predictive accuracy of the half-lives is comparable to those of other models. Then, two-proton radioactivity of the excited states of 14O, 17,18Ne, 22Mg, 29S, and 94Ag is discussed within the unified fission model and two analytical formulas. It is found that the experimental half-lives of the excited states are reproduced better within the unified fission model. Furthermore, the two formulas are not suitable for the study of two-proton radioactivity of excited states because their physical appearance deviates from the mechanism of quantum tunneling, and the parameters involved are obtained without including experimental data from the excited states.
A simple model for assessing climate control trade-offs and responding to unanticipated climate outcomes
Authors: Drake Henri F , Rivest Ronald L , Edelman Alan , Deutch John
Published: September 2021

Persistent greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions threaten global climate goals and have prompted consideration of climate controls supplementary to emissions mitigation. We present MARGO, an idealized model of optimally-controlled climate change, which is complementary to both simpler conceptual models and more complicated Integrated Assessment Models. The four methods of controlling climate damage—mitigation, carbon dioxide removal (CDR), adaptation, and solar radiation modification (SRM)—are not interchangeable, as they enter at different stages of the causal chain that connects GHG emissions to climate damages. Early and aggressive mitigation is necessary to stabilize GHG concentrations below a tolerable level. While the most cost-beneficial and cost-effective pathways to reducing climate suffering include deployments of all four controls, the quantitative trade-offs between the different controls are sensitive to value-driven parameters and poorly-known future costs and damages.

Static policy optimization assumes perfect foresight and obscures the active role decision-makers have in shaping a climate trajectory. We propose an explicit policy response process wherein climate control policies are re-adjusted over time in response to unanticipated outcomes. We illustrate this process in two ‘storyline’ scenarios: (a) near-term increases in mitigation and CDR are deficient, such that climate goals are expected to slip out of reach; (b) SRM is abruptly terminated after 40 years of successful deployment, causing an extremely rapid warming which is amplified by an excess of GHGs due to deterred mitigation. In both cases, an optimized policy response yields substantial benefits relative to continuing the original policy.

The MARGO model is intentionally designed to be as simple, transparent, customizable, and accessible as possible, addressing concerns about previous climate-economic modelling approaches and enabling a more diverse set of stakeholders to engage with these essential and timely topics.
The emission reduction potential of electric transport modes in Finland
Authors: Jenu Samppa , Baumeister Stefan , Pippuri-Mäkeläinen Jenni , Manninen Aino , Paakkinen Marko
Published: September 2021

The transportation sector has become the fastest growing source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. One solution to mitigate the impacts is a shift towards electric modes. Where previous studies have only focused on the replacement of individual modes, our study presents a more holistic approach by comparing land-based, water-based and airborne transportation modes. We study the GHG emission reduction potentials of electric cars, buses, trains, ferries and aircraft in comparison to existing modes on 34 routes within Finland and across the Baltic Sea to Sweden and Estonia. By comparing the GHG emissions in carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2-eq) per passenger kilometer for each mode, we also consider the emissions generated from battery production as well as the differences in the energy mix from electricity production of the three studied countries. In addition to CO2-eq emissions per passenger kilometer, we also take real door-to-door travel times into account. Our study found that electric transportation modes possess great potential for emissions reduction. Nevertheless, depending on the energy mix used for electricity production, the emissions of electric transportation modes can exceed those of existing modes significantly. In addition, the emissions generated by battery production can have a significant share of the total emissions and should therefore always be considered. Finally, while also taking into account the door-to-door travel times, our study identified the great potential of electric aircraft to provide a less carbon intensive transportation option paired with short travel times starting on routes beyond 300 km where no high-speed rail exists as well as on routes across the water.
FTIR analysis of polyethylene glycol treated bacterial cellulose pellicle
Authors: Maulana J , Suryanto H , Susilo B D , Yanuhar U , Aminnudin A , Pradana Y R A , Bintara R D
Published: September 2021

Abstrak. This research identified the effect of additional polyethylene glycol (PEG) in bacterial cellulose made from pineapple peel waste. The produced pellicles were soaked in PEG solution with 0%, 1%, 2.5%, and 5%. Then, they were homogenised using an ultrasonic homogeniser for 15 minutes before dried using the freeze-drying method. The functional groups were observed using FTIR. The functional groups showed the presence of cellulose I and cellulose II at 439.08 cm−1, 2895.15 cm−1, 1963.53 cm−1 1633.71 cm−1, 1315.45 cm−1, 839.03 cm−1 wavenumbers. Additional PEG caused an increase of the C-H bond at 1963.53 cm−1 wave number.
The change of land use patterns and cover on the surface runoff in Krueng Meuraksa sub-watershed
Authors: Savitri A , Achmad A , Fadhly N
Published: September 2021

The increasing population and the development of Lhokseumawe city from 2008-2018 resulted in changes in land use, therefore the type of land cover will be a benchmark for how much the surface run-off will occur. In this study there are six categories of land use types, thus are shrubs, plantations, settlements, open land, dryland farming and rice field. Krueng Meuraksa sub-watershed is in Lhokseumawe, North Aceh Regency, Aceh Province. The area of Krueng Meuraksa sub-watershed is 9,958.56 ha. This study aims to observe how the pattern of land use change and run-off in 2008–2018. This study uses secondary data collection methods obtained from related resources. The result shows that there is a change in land use where the area of land cover continues to increase in the residential area, on the contrary the area of land cover continues to decrease in dryland farming area. These changes lead to an increase in the coefficient of surface run-off in Krueng Meuraksa sub-watershed in 2008–2018, where in 2008 it was 0.726 and in 2018 it was 0.787. Based on the run-off coefficient, rainfall intensity and sub-watershed in Krueng Meuraksa, the amount of run-off was 333.403 m3/d in 2008 and 361.765 m3/d in 2018. The increase in the amount of run-off occurs as the run-off coefficient increases every year
Planning of fishing residential in Kuta Village (supporting the Mandalika special economic zone) based on green concept
Authors: Saptaningtyas R S , Utomo P K , Hilyana S , Anwar S N R
Published: September 2021

A Fishing housing in Kuta Village in Central Lombok Regency supports the Mandalika Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Housing with environmental issues and inadequate infrastructure in the fishing village of Kuta village is a fact. On the other hand, this area is a potential tourist destination in West Nusa Tenggara Indonesia. The aim is to produce a reference document for developing fisherman housing in Kuta Village based on a sustainable environment. This methodology uses a descriptive qualitative approach. The conclusion is that the planning of fishing settlement areas must be developed with a sustainable development model. Where in this development must adopt materials that are friendly and adaptive to the environment. The development of sustainable tourism may not be fully appreciated by stakeholders, but there is a responsibility to maintain regional development, especially in coastal areas. Sustainability should be considered by developers and policymakers to create a more desirable tourism future for coastal areas.
Thermogravimetric and kinetic analyses of the Skeletonema costatum microalgae combustion using the fitting method
Authors: Sukarni S , Prasetiyo A , Zulfambudy R , Permanasari A A , Puspitasari P
Published: September 2021

This work was intended to understand the potential of Skeletonema costatum (S. costatum) microalgae being the solid biofuel feedstock by studying its combustion behavior under a thermogravimetric analyzer (TGA). The following parameters were used during the experiment: about 5 mg of weighed sample was put into a ceramic crucible; the atmospheric air of 100 ml/min was flowed to the chamber to ensure sufficient combustion air; heating was escalated with a rate of 10 °C/min, and combustion was performed at a temperature range from 30 °C to 1200 °C. The results showed that the combustion process of S. costatum microalgae could be divided into four stages of decomposition, including the evaporation stage of moisture content from a temperature of 31.68 °C to 150.93 °C, the devolatilization stage from a 150.93 °C to 505.053 °C, the stage of char combustion from a 505.053 °C to 1018.15 °C and the final stage of ash decomposition from 1018.15 °C to 1200 °C. The kinetic parameters were calculated in the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd stages based on the fitting model of the Coats-Redfern method by selecting reaction mechanisms. The activation energy values for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd stages were 71.18; 39.49, and 56.92 kJ/mol, respectively, and correlation coefficients (R2) of 0.959; 0.988, and 0.978, respectively in the Chemical Reaction Order models.
Energy dissipation of graded concrete beams on maximum reinforcement ratio
Authors: Novitasari Y , Pratama M M A
Published: September 2021

Energy dissipation is a parameter that contributes to the deformation process of structural elements. Factors affecting the value of energy dissipation include concrete compressive strength, reinforcement ratio, cross-sectional dimensions, and history of loading that occurs on the structure. In this study, the graded concrete (GC) beams with a maximum reinforcement design was tested under flexural test to analyse the resulting energy dissipation. The resulting data was then compared to the reference beams. The results showed that: 1) The use of cross-sectional dimension ratio of ½ in GC beams using maximum reinforcement can increase the energy dissipation by more than 2000%; 2) Design of reinforcement area should be based on the higher concrete strength to increase energy dissipation up to 100%; 3) The use of GC save on construction costs can increase energy dissipation by up to 400% with a reduction in load capacity of 25%; 4) The use of GC to improve the properties of structural elements can increase energy dissipation by more than 60% while increasing load performance by almost 50%.
Application of overlay method in interpreting of traffic noise distribution in land use
Authors: Lakawa I , Sufrianto S , Jusrin J
Published: September 2021

Overlay studies with geographic information systems (GIS) are usually only to describe the condition of land elevation points, and various situations in land use. The purpose of this study was to analyze the intensity of noise in various types of land use and visualization of noise distribution maps. The research method uses a mathematical and overlay approach. The results showed that the average traffic flow was 1931 veh/h with a composition of motorcycle 61%, light vehicle 35%, and heavy vehicle 4%. Traffic noise level on Tuesday is 75.2 dB, while on Sunday it is 75.5 dB. There is no significant difference in noise intensity on Tuesday and Sunday at Ahmad Yani, MT. Haryono, Sao-Sao, and Abunawas Street. On Tuesday the highest noise level occurs in front of the education area while on Sunday in front of the shopping area. The intensity of noise distribution that reaches the highest land use occurs in the shopping area, followed by the office area, and the lowest in the school area. This is due to the increase in distance from the roadside.
Elemental compositions analysis of Arthrospira platensis-activated carbon blend using energy-dispersive X-Ray spectroscopy
Authors: Aminullah A Y , Sukarni S , Prasetiyo A , Zakaria Y , Permanasari A A , Puspitasari P
Published: September 2021

The biomass combustion in the boiler furnace faces a common problem related to slagging and fouling. The slag deposits and fouling of boiler components have been significantly influenced by inorganic matter in biomass origin. Therefore, chemical composition greatly determines the potential of biomass as a fuel. This study was conducted to determine the chemical content of Arthrospira platensis (AP) microalgae, activated carbon (AC), and a mixture of AP and AC with a mass ratio of 10:1 (AP/AC:10/1) by using an Energy Dispersive X-Ray (EDX) spectroscopy. The results showed that the chemical content of AP microalgae was dominated by C and O elements by 63.25 and 27.99 (wt.%), respectively. It was also shown that activated carbon was dominated by C and O elements at 89.91 and 10.08 (wt.%), respectively. Moreover, the addition of AC to the AP led to a decrease in the percentage of O content and increased the percentage of C from 63.25 to 91.20 (wt.%). It is expected that adding AC can improve the performance of AP biomass during the thermal conversion process.
Study on fatigue crack growth of electron beam selective melting of titanium alloy
Authors: Gao Zihao , Yang Shanglei , Meng Xuan , Wang Zhentao , Peng Zeng
Published: September 2021

In the application of additive manufacturing, it is inevitable to use some formed parts with a smaller height. The analysis of various mechanical properties of these formed parts is the focus of research. In this paper, the fatigue performance of a titanium alloy specimen with a 10 mm height and electron beam selective melting is studied. By analyzing the structure and phase of the overall fatigue specimen, and then cutting the overall specimen parallel and perpendicular to the additive manufacturing direction, the tensile and fatigue tests in different directions are performed to detect the fatigue cracks at the fracture propagation the way to research. It is found that there are two ways of secondary crack propagation between fatigue bands, and three cracks are generated during the fatigue secondary crack propagation.
Will GHz burst mode create a new path to femtosecond laser processing?
Authors: Sugioka Koji
Published: September 2021

The GHz burst mode of femtosecond laser pulses can significantly improve ablation efficiency without deteriorating ablation quality. However, various parameters involved in GHz burst mode make it difficult to optimize the processing for practical implementation. In this Perspective, the author gives the history, current status, and future challenges and prospects of this new strategy to answer the question, ‘will GHz burst mode create a new path to femtosecond laser processing?’
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of the Outcome Expectancy Construct in Physical Activity Research
Authors: Bohlen Lauren Connell , Emerson Jessica A , Rhodes Ryan E , Williams David M
Published: September 2021

Background

Cognition-based theories dominate physical activity (PA) research, and many include a construct broadly defined as “beliefs about the consequences of behavior” (e.g., outcome expectancies, perceived benefits) hereafter referred to as perceived consequences.

Purpose

With the quantity of available research on this topic, it is important to examine whether the literature supports perceived consequences as a predictor of PA.

Methods

A meta-analysis examining longitudinal associations between perceived consequences and PA in adults was conducted. Studies were eligible if (a) perceived consequences were measured at a time point prior to PA, and (b) the target behavior was a form of PA. An omnibus meta-analysis estimating the mean effect of all included studies, and separate meta-analyses for perceived consequences content categories were conducted.

Results

This search yielded 6,979 articles, of these, 110 studies met inclusion criteria. Studies were published between 1989 and 2020, with sample sizes ranging from 16 to 2,824. All studies were evaluated as moderate to high quality. A small positive bivariate association was identified (r = 0.11; 95% CI [0.09, 0.13]) between perceived consequences and PA. Significant associations were identified for time, health, self-evaluative, psychological, and affective consequences. There was no association between perceived weight-related consequences and PA.

Conclusions

The findings emphasize the variability with which existing studies have examined perceived consequences in the PA literature. Future research might examine whether these are important distinctions for understanding PA. Overall, the results suggest utility in examining perceived consequences as a predictor of PA, but constructs with more robust associations may require priority.
Odor-evoked Autobiographical Memory in Alzheimer’s disease?
Authors: El Haj Mohamad
Published: September 2021

Objective

Because memory decline is the hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), an important endeavor for both clinicians and researchers is to improve memory performances in AD. This can be pursued by olfactory stimulation of memory in patients with AD and by studying the effects of olfactory stimulation on autobiographical memory (i.e., memory for personal information). The effects of olfactory stimulation on autobiographical memory in patients with mild AD have been reported by recent research. We thus provide the first comprehensive overview of research on odor-evoked autobiographical memory in AD. We also establish the basis for solid theoretical analysis concerning the memory improvement reported by research on odor-evoked autobiographical memory in AD.

Method

We examined literature on odor-evoked autobiographical memories in AD and propose the “OdAMA” (Odor-evoked Autobiographical Memory in Alzheimer’s disease) model.

Results and discussion

According to OdAMA model, odor exposure activates involuntary access to specific autobiographical memories, which promotes enhanced experience subjective of retrieval in patients with AD and improves their ability to construct not only recent and remote events but also future ones. The OdAMA model could serve as a guide for researchers and clinicians interested in odor-evoked autobiographical memory in AD.
Hashing out current social media use in eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Thanawala Shivani U , Beveridge Claire A , Muir Amanda B , Strobel Mary Jo , Westcott-Chavez Amity , Serper Marina , Yang Yu-Xiao , Lynch Kristle L
Published: September 2021

Background

Patients affected by chronic illnesses have increasingly turned to social media to gather disease-related information and connect with other patients. Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic disease with rapidly evolving management options. The aims of this study are to describe the current use of social media in EoE patients and caregivers, evaluate whether use of social media to learn about EoE is associated with higher medical knowledge of this disease, and evaluate social media factors that could result in improved patient and caregiver disease understanding.

Methods

We surveyed individuals 18 years or older in July 2020 who identified as either having EoE, or as being a caregiver for someone with EoE, through an invitation link sent to email subscribers of the American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders.

Results

Of the 212 survey responders, 82.5% used social media to learn about EoE. Caregivers were more likely to use social media than patients (OR 2.30, 95% CI 1.11–4.76). Social media use was not associated with higher knowledge of EoE. Distrust of posted content was the largest barrier to use and 87.7% of responders believed that physician contribution to posts would enhance the quality of information.

Conclusions

In one of the first known studies to evaluate use of social media in the context of EoE, we found that a majority of patient and caregiver respondents use social media to learn about EoE. This highlights the potential opportunity to leverage social media to provide current and accurate EoE educational content for patients and caregivers.
Density-Dependent Cannibalism in Dragonfly Nymphs (Odonata: Anisoptera) Overwintering in Temperate Freshwater Ponds
Authors: Clark Candace , Hossie Thomas J , Beresford David V
Published: September 2021

Density-dependent mortality by predation and cannibalism has been observed in aquatic insects such as dragonflies in response to shrinking habitat caused by summer drought. Winter conditions might also reduce the amount of livable habitat in temperate ponds and could augment rates of cannibalism. We hypothesized that cannibalism in dragonfly nymphs would increase in winter due to a seasonal decrease in available habitat caused by stratified lower oxygen levels leading to increased nymph density around pond edges. To determine whether cannibalism in nymphs is density-dependent and size-dependent (i.e., with smaller nymphs consumed) we experimentally manipulated nymph density in aquaria. To evaluate whether these patterns are observed in nature during the winter, we conducted field surveys for nymphs in two ponds across the fall and winter seasons. When nymphs were housed at different densities for 24 h, cannibalism was density-dependent, and only smaller nymphs were preyed upon. Our field surveys found that fewer nymphs were caught in the late winter sampling period (mixed-effects model, P < 0.001), and that these were larger than nymphs caught in the fall, although both patterns were restricted to the deeper pond (P < 0.05). Our results were consistent with the process we hypothesized, and the observed reduction in dissolved oxygen at the bottom of the deeper pond. The lack of significant changes to the relative abundance and size of nymphs in the shallower pond reveals that differences in pond characteristics can influence the degree to which winter conditions induce density-dependent cannibalism among dragonfly nymphs.
Case report: incessant ventricular fibrillation in a conscious left ventricular assist device patient
Authors: Jakstaite Aiste Monika , Luedike Peter , Wakili Reza , Kochhäuser Simon , Ruhparwar Arjang , Rassaf Tienush , Papathanasiou Maria
Published: September 2021

Background 

Ventricular arrhythmia in left ventricular assist device (LVAD) recipients represents a challenging clinical scenario and the optimal treatment strategy in this unique patient population still needs to be defined.

Case summary 

We report on a 61-year-old LVAD patient with incessant ventricular fibrillation (VF) despite multiple unsuccessful attempts to restore normal rhythm with external defibrillation and antiarrhythmic medication. He remained initially stable as an outpatient and subsequently developed secondary organ failure.

Discussion 

This case demonstrates that under LVAD support long-term haemodynamic stability is possible even in case of VF, a situation that resembles Fontan circulation. However, ventricular arrhythmias are associated with a high risk of secondary organ damage due to right heart failure if left untreated. In case of refractory ventricular tachycardia or electrical storm listing for heart transplantation with high priority status should be pursued when possible. Alternatively, catheter ablation may be considered in selected cases and be performed in experienced centres in close collaboration with all involved specialists.
Erdheim–Chester disease presenting as an intracardiac mass and pericardial effusion confirmed by biopsy: a case report
Authors: Yoon Minjae , Lee Seung Hyun , Shim Hyo Sup , Kang Seok-Min
Published: September 2021

Background

Erdheim–Chester disease (ECD) is a rare non-Langerhans cell histiocytosis that can affect the bones, heart, lungs, brain, and other organs. Cardiovascular involvement is common in ECD and is associated with a poor prognosis. Here, we report a case of ECD presenting as an intracardiac mass and pericardial effusion confirmed by biopsy with sternotomy.

Case summary

A 54-year-old man was admitted because of dyspnoea. He was previously diagnosed with bilateral hydronephrosis and retroperitoneal fibrosis. Echocardiography revealed a large amount of pericardial effusion and echogenic mass on the right atrial (RA) side and atrioventricular (AV) groove. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography-computed tomography (CT) revealed infiltrative mass-like lesions in the RA and AV groove. Pericardial window formation and pericardial biopsy were performed, and the pathologic results showed only pericardial fibrosis with no specific findings. Bone scan revealed increased uptake in the long bones. Considering the high probability of ECD based on the patient’s manifestations and the imaging findings, we performed a cardiac biopsy with median sternotomy despite initial insufficient pathologic results in the pericardial biopsy. The surgical findings included multiple irregular and firm masses on the cardiac wall and large vessels; after obtaining a large amount of suspicious mass, ECD accompanied with CD68 (+) and BRAF V600E mutation was confirmed.

Discussion

Erdheim–Chester disease can be associated with various forms of cardiovascular involvement. Considering the multi-systemic manifestations and difficulty in identifying this rare disease, a comprehensive and meticulous diagnostic work-up is crucial.
A haemodynamic conundrum: a case report of a patient with concurrent pulmonary arterial hypertension and hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy
Authors: Hassanin Ahmed , Rzechorzek Wojciech , Naidu Srihari S , Lanier Gregg M
Published: September 2021

Background

The co-existence of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) and pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is extremely rare and poses a management conundrum. This is the first case report in the published literature to describe the diagnosis and management of a patient with both conditions.

Case summary

A 49-year-old female with a history of HOCM and recently diagnosed scleroderma presented to the clinic with progressive dyspnoea. Transthoracic echocardiogram demonstrated left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction at rest, and elevated pulmonary artery (PA) pressure. Cardiac catheterization (CC) demonstrated an LVOT gradient of 150 mmHg, PA pressure of 88/32 mmHg, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) 12 mmHg, pulmonary vascular resistance 14.8 Wu, and a cardiac index of 1.6 L/min/m2. The differential diagnosis for the dyspnoea included combined pre- and post-capillary pulmonary hypertension from longstanding HOCM vs. scleroderma associated PAH. Tadalafil was added to the patient’s medical regimen of metoprolol but it was stopped because the patient developed pulmonary oedema. Alcohol septal ablation was undertaken with improvement in the LVOT gradient, but only a modest improvement in her dyspnoea. Repeat CC demonstrated worsening PAH. Vasodilatory testing with nitric oxide led to an improvement in the PA pressure with minimal increase of the PCWP. Hence, she was started on treprostinil and macitentan, with significant improvement in her dyspnoea on follow-up.

Conclusion

In patients with concurrent HOCM and advanced PAH, a multidisciplinary treatment approach is needed to rapidly and safely optimize the background of HOCM in order to permit the use of PAH-specific medications.
Worldwide differences in primary prevention implantable cardioverter defibrillator utilization and outcomes in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Nauffal Victor , Marstrand Peter , Han Larry , Parikh Victoria N , Helms Adam S , Ingles Jodie , Jacoby Daniel , Lakdawala Neal K , Kapur Sunil , Michels Michelle , Owens Anjali T , Ashley Euan A , Pereira Alexandre C , Rossano Joseph W , Saberi Sara , Semsarian Christopher , Ware James S , Wittekind Samuel G , Day Sharlene , Olivotto Iacopo , Ho Carolyn Y
Published: September 2021

Aims 

Risk stratification algorithms for sudden cardiac death (SCD) in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and regional differences in clinical practice have evolved over time. We sought to compare primary prevention implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implantation rates and associated clinical outcomes in US vs. non-US tertiary HCM centres within the international Sarcomeric Human Cardiomyopathy Registry.

Methods and results

We included patients with HCM enrolled from eight US sites (n = 2650) and five non-US (n = 2660) sites and used multivariable Cox-proportional hazards models to compare outcomes between sites. Primary prevention ICD implantation rates in US sites were two-fold higher than non-US sites (hazard ratio (HR) 2.27 [1.89–2.74]), including in individuals deemed at high 5-year SCD risk (≥6%) based on the HCM risk-SCD score (HR 3.27 [1.76–6.05]). US ICD recipients also had fewer traditional SCD risk factors. Among ICD recipients, rates of appropriate ICD therapy were significantly lower in US vs. non-US sites (HR 0.52 [0.28–0.97]). No significant difference was identified in the incidence of SCD/resuscitated cardiac arrest among non-recipients of ICDs in US vs. non-US sites (HR 1.21 [0.74–1.97]).

Conclusion 

Primary prevention ICDs are implanted more frequently in patients with HCM in US vs. non-US sites across the spectrum of SCD risk. There was a lower rate of appropriate ICD therapy in US sites, consistent with a lower-risk population, and no significant difference in SCD in US vs. non-US patients who did not receive an ICD. Further studies are needed to understand what drives malignant arrhythmias, optimize ICD allocation, and examine the impact of different ICD utilization strategies on long-term outcomes in HCM.
Trends in Cardiovascular Disease by Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Ethnicity, Medicare Health Outcomes Survey 2011–2015
Authors: Đoàn Lan N , Takata Yumie , Hooker Karen , Mendez-Luck Carolyn , Irvin Veronica L
Published: September 2021

Background

The burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD) is increasing in the aging population. However, little is known about CVD risk factors and outcomes for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Other Pacific Islander (NH/PI) older adults by disaggregated subgroups.

Methods

Data were from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 2011–2015 Health Outcomes Survey, which started collecting expanded racial/ethnic data in 2011. Guided by Andersen and Newman’s theoretical framework, multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the prevalence and determinants of CVD risk factors (obesity, diabetes, smoking status, hypertension) and CVD conditions (coronary artery disease [CAD], congestive heart failure [CHF], myocardial infarction [MI], other heart conditions, stroke) for 10 Asian American and NH/PI subgroups and White adults.

Results

Among the 639 862 respondents, including 26 853 Asian American and 4 926 NH/PI adults, 13% reported CAD, 7% reported CHF, 10% reported MI, 22% reported other heart conditions, and 7% reported stroke. CVD risk factors varied by Asian American and NH/PI subgroup. The prevalence of overweight, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension was higher among most Asian American and NH/PI subgroups than White adults. After adjustment, Native Hawaiians had significantly greater odds of reporting stroke than White adults.

Conclusions

More attention should focus on NH/PIs as a priority population based on the disproportionate burden of CVD risk factors compared with their White and Asian American counterparts. Future research should disaggregate racial/ethnic data to provide accurate depictions of CVD and investigate the development of CVD risk factors in Asian Americans and NH/PIs over the life course.
Nutrition integrated agricultural extension—a case study in Western Kenya
Authors: Keding Gudrun B , Gramzow Andreas , Ochieng Justus , Laizer Alaik , Muchoki Charity , Onyango Charles , Hanson Peter , Yang Ray-Yu
Published: September 2021

Integrating nutrition communication in agricultural intervention programs aimed at increased food availability and accessibility in resource-poor areas is crucial. To enhance the sustainability and scalability of nutrition communication, the present study piloted the approach of ‘nutrition integrated agricultural extension’ and tested nutrition-related outcomes with two types of nutrition messages (specific vs. sensitive) and two delivery channels (public sector vs. private sector). The study intervention comprised (i) vegetable seed kit distribution, (ii) ongoing agricultural extension activities by public or private sectors and (iii) nutrition communication with two different messages. The intervention was tested with three treatment arms and reached 454 farmers (>65% female) in rural Kakamega County, Western Kenya. Pre-/post-surveys measured outcome variables focused on farmers’ nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes and practices in vegetable production and consumption, and household dietary diversity score. Results showed that all treatments increased nutrition knowledge (p < 0.05). Nutrition-specific communication was more effective than nutrition-sensitive communication. Nutrition communication through either the public or the private agricultural sector was both effective. Before the study intervention, many participants believed that vegetable consumption was beneficial and wanted to increase intake. After the intervention, the number of participants who felt eating more vegetables was challenging decreased slightly. Nutrition communication was found to be especially important in conveying recommended food amounts and promoting increased vegetable consumption. Seasonality affected on-farm crop diversity and vegetable consumption results in this study.