bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The current state of hydrochemical indicators of Lake Kenon– the cooling reservoir of the TPP
Authors: Usmanova L I
Published: January 2022

A characteristic is given of the current hydrochemical state of the water of Lake Kenon, which is used as a reservoir - a cooler for the Chita TPP. For over 50-years of operation of the station located on its shore, under the conditions of anthropogenic impact, there has been a sharp change in the chemical type of the lakeʼs water. Currently, the predominant anion is the sulfate ion. Above the MPC standard for water of water bodies of fishery significance are the content of magnesium and sulfates and the trace elements: fluorine, vanadium, strontium, molybdenum, copper, tungsten. The concentrations of boron, lithium, bromine are relatively increased, in some samples - iron, manganese, aluminum and barium.
Variations in the radiothermal radiation of the ice cover of Lake Arakhley as a geo-indicator of deformation and cracking
Authors: Venslavsky V B , Kharin Yu V
Published: January 2022

In January-March, 2020-2021, radiophysical studies were conducted of radiothermal radiation intensity for the testing site for Lake Arakhley, Transbaikalia, Russia. The set of equipment consisting of four microwave radiometers for the wavelengths from 0.3 to 2 cm was placed on the shore of the lake mounted on a stationary platform. The temperature and deformation of ice were simultaneously measured at the depth of 0.4 meters in two orthogonal directions: west-east and north-south. The temperature was measured with heat gauges in a vertical profile at the depths of 5, 10, 15, 20 and 40 cm. In the process of contact measurements in the period of cracking, signal impulses were recorded in the channel of the deformation sensor placed in the direction of the lake center (west-east). The measurement results were used in monitoring of the condition of the water body. It turned out that in the periods of registering the deformation impulses, changes in the radio brightness temperature and decrease in the ice temperature were observed. The microwave characteristics correlate with the temperature and deformation of the ice cover and may serve as an indicator of the meteorological conditions of the region.
The impact of the placer gold mining in Eastern Transbaikalia (Russia) on the environment components of river valleys in the Amur River basin
Authors: Zamana L V , Vakhnina I L
Published: January 2022

Based on the results of the analysis of satellite images and field observations, data on the length of the gold-bearing placers disturbed by the development along a number of main tributaries of the Shilka and Argun rivers are presented, the formed technogenic relief forms are indicated. Depending on the method of development, two types of technogenic landscapes have been identified - the excavation-dump with hydromonitor mining and belt trench-dump when washing with drags. The main directions of research on the assessment of placer gold mining in the natural complexes of river valleys are proposed.
Mineralogical information in the diary of D. G. Messerschmidt on the route of the future Siberian expedition of P. S. Pallas: materials for the study of scientific continuity
Authors: Bondar L D , Kurguzova A V
Published: January 2022

This work is aimed at detectinginformation from the field of mineralogy in the documentary heritage of the first scientific expedition to Siberia by D. G. Messerschmidt. The analysis was made of an expedition diary, the original of which is kept in the St. Petersburg Branch of the Archive of the Russian Academy of Sciences, – the fragmentsthat describes Messerschmidt’s Siberian route, coinciding with the future route of P. S. Pallas, who visited many of the Siberian regions that Messerschmidt had explored half a century before. Messerschmidt recorded data on several groups of minerals, including salts, metals, clays, micas, etc.The question of Messerschmidt’s creation of his mineralogical collections, as well as their systematics and cataloging deserves special study. The analysis of the results of the Messerschmidt’sobservations provides material for establishing the influence on Pallas of the first German scientist traveler, despite the fact that Pallas knew well Messerschmidt’s scientific heritage and made his efforts to make it public.
Khanh Thien gold-ore-magmatic cluster (North Vietnam)
Authors: Van Dung Chu , Goryachev N A , Trong Tu Mai , Trung Kien Trieu
Published: January 2022

New data on the gold mineralization related of the Late Paleozoic alkaline complexes of North Vietnam are presented. Two types of gold mineralization associated with syenites and granosyenites have been identified: gold only and gold-polymetallic. Geochemical characteristics are given for both types and the first data on the sulfur isotopic composition of ore minerals.
Deposits of the Udokan-Chineysky ore-magmatic system of Eastern Siberia
Authors: Gongalsky B
Published: January 2022

The aggregate of ore deposits localized in the Udokan-Chineysky ore district is unique and is the result of multi–stage, polygenetic formation. The deposits of copper and other metals formed at various depths occur within a limited area. The oxide and sulfide ore are spatially associated in the sedimentary rocks pertaining to the Paleoproterozoic Udokan Supergroup and the intrusive mafic–ultramafic rocks of the Chineysky Complex. The granite rocks of the Kodar Complex and gabbro rocks of the Chineysky Complex also date back to Paleoproterozoic. The same age has been established for metasomatic Nb–Ta–Zr–REE–Y and U mineralization in the albitized terrigenous rocks of the Udokan Supergroup (Katugin deposit and Chitkanda prospect) and U–Pd prospects hosted in terrigenous rocks. The U–REE mineralization superposed on the titanomagnetite deposits in the Chineysky pluton has not analogues in the world’s practice. The occurrences of uranium mineralization have been noted in form of pitchblende and U–Th rims around chalcopyrite grains at the Unkur copper deposit hosted in sedimentary rocks. The enrichment in U and Pb has been documented in crosscutting quartz veinlets with bornite mineralization at the Udokan deposit.
Ways of solving the problems of rational nature management in the areas of alluvial deposits development
Authors: Kostromin M V , Yu Panina T
Published: January 2022

A characteristic feature of the developed placer deposits is that most of them (up to 90–95%) are hard to develop, and the sands included in them are hard to enrich, due to their location in the geographic and climatic zones with a harsh climate, where perennial and deep seasonal permafrost is widespread almost everywhere. About 40% of alluvial deposits are clayey, highly clayey or cemented. As a consequence, there are significant losses of the valuable component and a large negative impact on the environment, including due to repeated re–mining. The studies presented in this paper help to significantly reduce losses and increase the productivity of the dredge, thereby increasing metal recovery.
Composition, structure and formation conditions of the Arydzhangsky Formation of the Maimecha-Kotuy District of the Siberian Trap Province
Authors: Shtokalo R V , Krivolutskaya N A , Konyshev A A , Rass I T , Demidova S I
Published: January 2022

We studied 6 sections of the Arydzhangsky lava formation (P2-T1) in the Kotuy river valley. The results of petrographic and geochemical studies of the composition of rocks of the Arydzhangsky, Khardaksky and Pravoboyarsky formations are presented. The stratigraphic columns of the sections were built and the composition of the rocks was additionally determined using a scanning electron microscope. In this regard, the relative position of these formations was established, the mantle and crust sources of magmas were confirmed. A geochemical identity of the rocks of the Khardaksky formation with the rocks of the Arydzhangsky formation was established, which suggests a similar age of their formation.
Study on technical solutions for shore power supply of motor yacht
Authors: Gyurov V. , Ivanova G.
Published: January 2022

The report presents an analysis of modern technical solutions for shore power supply of a specific class of passenger ships - luxury yachts for charter trips. The design data of a motor yacht in its different operating modes are considered, as well as the energy mix related to the fuel consumption at shore supply of the yacht during its stay at the port. The use of modern technical systems for shore supply includes the application of specific frequency converters, through which compatibility between the different voltage standards and the frequency for different shore power supply systems is realized. The costs of onshore power, compared to those of marine fuel, can be calculated from the current prices of onshore electricity and the energy produced from its own generators. The analysis of the basic design data of the motor yacht and the assessment of the energy costs on board, fuel economy and emission reductions will provide a clear answer to the advantages of the power supply from the shore of the vessel.
A mathematical model for the virtual simulator of the power unit electrical part
Authors: Baran P , Varetsky Y , Kidyba V , Pryshliak Y
Published: January 2022

The mathematical model is developed for a virtual training system (simulator) of the power unit electrical part operators of a thermal (nuclear) power plant. The model is used to simulating the main operating conditions of the power unit electrical part: generator idling, generator synchronization with the power system, excitation shifting from the main unit to the backup one and vice versa, switching in the power unit auxiliary system, and others. Furthermore, it has been implemented modelling some probable emergency conditions within a power plant: incomplete phase switching, damage to standard power unit equipment, synchronous oscillations, asynchronous mode, etc. The model of the power unit electrical part consists of two interacting software units: models of power equipment (turbine, generator with excitation systems, auxiliary system) and models of its control systems, automation, relay protection and signalling. The models are represented by the corresponding algebraic-differential equations that provide real-time mapping power unit processes at the operator’s request. The developed model uses optimal solving algebraic-differential equations to ensure the virtual process behaviour in real-time. In particular, the implicit Euler method is used to solve differential equations, which is stable when simulating processes in significant disturbances, such as accidental disconnection of the unit from the power system, tripping and energizing loads, generator excitation loss, etc.
Optimization techniques for p-GTO thyristor design
Authors: Cristea M , Babarada F
Published: January 2022

A new type of semiconductor power device was devised in the early ’90s as an alternative to the classic Gate Turn-Off (GTO) thyristor. Because the low-doped n-base was replaced by a low-doped p-base, it was called the p-GTO. Its main advantage is a higher possible control voltage when the device is switched off, leading to the possibility of a higher blocking anode current (IATO) and a lower turn-off time. The studies and techniques employed with the help of SILVACO-TCAD simulation software Athena and Atlas show that the p-GTO has higher breakdown voltages compared with its classic counterpart and similar on-state voltage (VT) and switching characteristics when replacing the GTO in the same circuit. Specific circuit improvements, like an affordable higher turn-off gate voltage, will drive the p-GTO into even faster switching operation.
Effect of thermal cycling on mechanical and microstructural properties of heat-treated Ti-6Al-4V alloy
Authors: Putti Venkata Siva Teja , Manikandan S , Ayyagari Kiran Kumar
Published: January 2022

Titanium (Ti-6Al-4V) is an α+β phase-field alloy utilized in many industries due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and near-net shaping capability. Solution treated & aging, and stress relief annealing processes were performed on the samples to increase the strength and % of elongation. The heat-treated samples then thermally cycled for 500 cycles, 1000 cycles, and 1500 cycles to evaluate the microhardness and tensile properties. The presence of martensite and α
2 precipitates in the thermally cycled samples was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and x-ray diffraction analysis (XRD). In this investigation, at 1000 thermal cycles, all specimens show improvement in both hardness and strength when compared within the cycles. Solution-treated and aging (STA), stress relief annealing (SRA), and without any heat-treatment (WHT) processes have their highest hardness values recorded for 1000 thermal cycles, and the values are 471 HV0.5, 381 HV0.5, and 374.6HV0.5, respectively. For the SRA process, ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 925 MPa and yield strength (YS) of 896 MPa have resulted in 1000 cycles. Similarly, at 1000 thermal cycle WHT processed samples yielded UTS of 920 MPa and YS of 885 MPa. STA process samples that are heat-treated for 1000 thermal cycles have better strength properties than SRA and WHT and had a UTS of 1530MPa and YS of 1420MPa. From a ductility point of view, a maximum elongation of 29% for the STA process has resulted. Compared to forged titanium alloy (base metal), an increase of 31% elongation and 41% ultimate tensile strength for solution treated and aging process at 1000 cycles has resulted in this investigation.
Microstructures and compressive properties of AlxCoCrFeNi high entropy alloys prepared by arc melting and directional solidification
Authors: Yu Zhuhuan , Yan Yawen , Gao Wei , Wang Xiaohui , Liu Xuliang , Du Wei
Published: January 2022

The AlxCoCrFeNi (molar radio, x = 0.6 and 1.2) high entropy alloys (HEAs) were prepared by arc melting and directional solidification at the withdrawal rate of 150 μm s−1. All microstructures were characterized by x-ray diffraction, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy with an energy-dispersive spectrometer. Strong similarities in phase constituent were observed between the as-cast samples and directionally solidified samples. The Al0.6CoCrFeNi HEA and Al1.2CoCrFeNi HEA fabricated by two different techniques respectively consisted of Cr-Fe-Co enriched FCC phase + Al-Ni enriched BCC phase and Al-Ni enriched B2 phase + Cr-Fe-Co enriched A2 phase. It was micromorphology found that directional solidification could not only make the microstructures arranged regularly but also coarsen the grains. This has been attributed to the preferred grain orientation and lower cooling rate during directional solidification process. Compression testing showed that the compressive ductility of directionally solidified samples decreased obviously. The ultimate compressive strength of Al0.6CoCrFeNi HEA increased from 1 675 MPa to 1 903 MPa, but the strength of Al1.2CoCrFeNi HEA decreased from 2 183 MPa to 1 463 MPa. The difference in strength has been suggested to be the result of micropores in the matrix.
Deep learning-based extended field of view computed tomography image reconstruction: influence of network design on image estimation outside the scan field of view
Authors: Khural Bhupinder Singh , Baer-Beck Matthias , Fournié Eric , Stierstorfer Karl , Huang Yixing , Maier Andreas
Published: January 2022

The problem of data truncation in Computed Tomography (CT) is caused by the missing data when the patient exceeds the Scan Field of View (SFOV) of a CT scanner. The reconstruction of a truncated scan produces severe truncation artifacts both inside and outside the SFOV. We have employed a deep learning-based approach to extend the field of view and suppress truncation artifacts. Thereby, our aim is to generate a good estimate of the real patient data and not to provide a perfect and diagnostic image even in regions beyond the SFOV of the CT scanner. This estimate could then be used as an input to higher order reconstruction algorithms [1]. To evaluate the influence of the network structure and layout on the results, three convolutional neural networks (CNNs), in particular a general CNN called ConvNet, an autoencoder, and the U-Net architecture have been investigated in this paper. Additionally, the impact of L1, L2, structural dissimilarity and perceptual loss functions on the neural network’s learning have been assessed and evaluated. The evaluation of data set comprising 12 truncated test patients demonstrated that the U-Net in combination with the structural dissimilarity loss showed the best performance in terms of image restoration in regions beyond the SFOV of the CT scanner. Moreover, this network produced the best mean absolute error, L1, L2, and structural dissimilarity evaluation measures on the test set compared to other applied networks. Therefore, it is possible to achieve truncation artifact removal using deep learning techniques.
Evaluating multifunctional efficiency of a structural battery composite via thermo-electro-chemical modeling
Authors: Eaton Jacob , Naraghi Mohammad , Boyd James G
Published: January 2022

The emerging research field of structural batteries aims to combine the functions of load bearing and energy storage to improve system-level energy storage in battery-powered vehicles and consumer products. Structural batteries, when implemented in electric vehicles, will be exposed to greater temperature fluctuations than conventional batteries in electric vehicles. However, there is a lack of knowledge in public domains and scientific literature regarding how these thermal boundary conditions impact power capabilities of the structural batteries. To fill this gap, the present work simulates the transient temperature-dependent specific power capabilities of a high aspect ratio structural battery composite by solving the one-dimensional heat transfer equation with heat source terms and convective boundary conditions. Equivalent circuit modeling of resistivity-induced losses is used with a second-order finite difference method to examine battery performance. More than 60 different run configurations are evaluated in this work, examining how thermal boundary conditions and internal heat generation influence power capabilities and multifunctional efficiency of the structural battery. The simulated structural battery composite is shown to have good specific Young’s modulus (79.5%–80.3% of aluminum), a specific energy of 158 Wh kg−1, and specific power of 41.2–55.2 W kg−1, providing a multifunctional efficiency of 1.15–1.17 depending on configuration and thermal loading conditions and demonstrating the potential of load-bearing structural batteries to achieve mass savings. This work emphasizes the dependency of power efficiency on cell design and external environmental conditions. Insulating material is shown to improve multifunctional efficiency, particularly for low ambient temperatures. It is demonstrated that as cell temperature increases due to high ambient temperature or heat generation in the battery, the specific power efficiency increases exponentially due to a favorable nonlinear relation between ionic conductivity and cell temperature. The simulations also demonstrate a thermal feedback loop where resistivity-induced power losses can lead to self-regulation of cell temperature. This effect reduces run-averaged losses, particularly at low ambient temperatures.
Effects of eco-environmental damage compensation system with multi-stakeholder engagements: a DSGE perspective from China
Authors: Gao Feifei , Xin Baogui
Published: January 2022

We present and estimate a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium model for an eco-environmental damage compensation system (EDCS) with multi-stakeholder engagements. Then we explore the dynamic effect under different shocks such as household and government supervision, environmental damage compensation ratio, pollution emission threshold, and pollution control efforts. The household and government supervision show the positive effect of environmental regulation on conserving energy, abating emission, reducing damage compensation, and increasing economic output. The environmental damage compensation ratio can also contribute to energy conservation and emission reduction, but there are no significant regulation effects of pollutant emission and damage compensation. The pollutant emission threshold and the pollution control efforts have significant environmental regulation effects, but the latter does not significantly restrain high energy consumption. All the shocks mentioned above can effectively improve the green development level.
A comparative study of different emitter diffusion profiles on the performance of Si solar cells
Authors: Singh Mukesh Pratap , Amir Mohd
Published: January 2022

We have investigated the effect of emitter design key parameters such as depth factor and the peak concentration for different types of emitter diffusion profiles (uniform, exponential, Gaussian, and Erfc) on the performance of silicon (Si) solar cells. The value of the depth factor is optimized as 0.1 μm for all these emitter diffusion profiles. Afterward, the peak concentration value is optimized for all the diffusion profiles. A close examination of relative diffusion lengths, conductivities, recombination rates, internal and external quantum efficiencies for these diffusion profiles revealed that among all the considered emitter diffusion profiles, the Erfc profile exhibits the maximum efficiency of 23.53% with an optimized peak concentration of 2 × 1020 cm−3 for the emitter and 1 × 1019 cm−3 for the back surface field doping. PC1D was used for all the simulations.
Research on fault diagnosis of automobile engines based on the deep learning 1D-CNN method
Authors: Du Canyi , Zhong Rui , Zhuo Yishen , Zhang Xinyu , Yu Feifei , Li Feng , Rong Ying , Gong Yongkang
Published: January 2022

Traditional engine fault diagnosis methods usually need to extract the features manually before classifying them by the pattern recognition method, which makes it difficult to solve the end-to-end fault diagnosis problem. In recent years, deep learning has been applied in different fields, bringing considerable convenience to technological change, and its application in the automotive field also has many applications, such as image recognition, language processing, and assisted driving. In this paper, a one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D-CNN) in deep learning is used to process vibration signals to achieve fault diagnosis and classification. By collecting the vibration signal data of different engine working conditions, the collected data are organized into several sets of data in a working cycle, which are divided into a training sample set and a test sample set. Then, a one-dimensional convolutional neural network model is built in Python to allow the feature filter (convolution kernel) to learn the data from the training set and these convolution checks process the input data of the test set. Convolution and pooling extract features to output to a new space, which is characterized by learning features directly from the original vibration signals and completing fault diagnosis. The experimental results show that the pattern recognition method based on a one-dimensional convolutional neural network can be effectively applied to engine fault diagnosis and has higher diagnostic accuracy than traditional methods.
Relationship Between Brachial–Ankle Pulse Wave Velocity and Risk of New-Onset Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Li Shi-wei , Yao Tao , Zhang Li , Zhao Lei , Zhang Xiao-ling , Wei Xiao-xuan , Peng Da-xu , Wu Shou-ling , Sun Li-xia
Published: January 2022

Background

To investigate the effect of brachial–ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV) on new-onset acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was performed for the subjects who underwent baPWV examination during the follow-up of Kailuan Study Cohort from 2010 to 2017. The observation subjects were divided into 3 groups based on the levels of baPWV: <14, 14 to <18, and ≥18 m/s. The incidence density of AMI in 3 groups was calculated. Log-rank test was used to compare the differences of cumulative AMI incidence among 3 groups. The influence of baPWV on new-onset AMI was analyzed by Cox proportional risk model and restricted cubic spline.

Results

A total of 41,405 subjects were included in the study. During 2.66 (1.07–5.39) years’ follow-up, 150 new-onset AMI cases were observed. The incidence density of AMI in 3 groups was 3.69, 12.79, and 26.65 per 10,000 person-years, respectively. Log-rank test result showed the cumulative AMI incidence increased gradually from the subjects with the lowest baPWV to those with the highest baPWV (P < 0.05). Compared with subjects with baPWV <14 m/s, Cox model showed that hazard ratios (95% confidence interval) of AMI in those with baPWV 14 to <18 m/s and baPWV ≥18 m/s were 1.77 (1.04–3.01) and 1.93 (1.03–3.60) after adjusting for age, sex, and other potential confounding factors, respectively. Restricted cubic spline analysis showed that there was a dose–response relationship between the hazard ratio of AMI and baPWV levels.

Conclusions

The increased baPWV is a risk factor for new-onset AMI.
Complex tourism and season interactions contribute to disparate physiologies in an endangered rock iguana
Authors: French Susannah S , Webb Alison C , Wilcoxen Travis E , Iverson John B , DeNardo Dale F , Lewis Erin L , Knapp Charles R
Published: January 2022

To promote survival and fitness, organisms use a suite of physiological systems to respond to both predictable and unpredictable changes in the environment. These physiological responses are also influenced by changes in life history state. The continued activation of physiological systems stemming from persistent environmental perturbations enable animals to cope with these challenges but may over time lead to significant effects on the health of wildlife. In the present study, we tested how varying environmental perturbations driven by tourism and associated supplemental feeding affects the energetics, corticosterone and immunity of six discrete populations of the northern Bahamian rock iguana (Cyclura cychlura inornata and Cyclura cychlura figginsi). We studied populations within and outside the reproductive season and quantified tourist numbers during sample collection. Specifically, we measured clutch size, body condition, plasma energy metabolites, reactive oxygen species, baseline corticosterone concentrations and immune function of male and female iguanas from each population to address whether (i) disparate physiologies are emerging across a gradient of tourism and feeding, (ii) both subspecies respond similarly and (iii) responses vary with season/reproductive condition. We found significant effects of tourism level, season and their interaction on the physiology of both C. c. inornata and C. c. figginsi, supporting the idea that tourism is leading to the divergence of phenotypes. Specifically, we found elevated plasma energy metabolites, oxidative stress and a measure of innate immunity (bactericidal ability), but reduced corticosterone concentrations with increasing tourism in both subspecies of rock iguanas. These physiological metrics differ according to the level of tourism in both subspecies and persist across seasons despite variation with natural seasonal and reproductive changes. These findings suggest that anthropogenic disturbance results in disparate physiologies in northern Bahamian rock iguanas.
Aortic regurgitation management: a systematic review of clinical practice guidelines and recommendations
Authors: Galusko Victor , Thornton George , Jozsa Csilla , Sekar Baskar , Aktuerk Dincer , Treibel Thomas A , Petersen Steffen E , Ionescu Adrian , Ricci Fabrizio , Khanji Mohammed Y
Published: January 2022

Guidelines for the diagnosis and management of aortic regurgitation (AR) contain recommendations that do not always match. We systematically reviewed clinical practice guidelines and summarized similarities and differences in the recommendations as well as gaps in evidence on the management of AR.

We searched MEDLINE and Embase (1 January 2011 to 1 September 2021), Google Scholar, and websites of relevant organizations for contemporary guidelines that were rigorously developed as assessed by the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II tool. Three guidelines met our inclusion criteria. There was consensus on the definition of severe AR and use of echocardiography and of multimodality imaging for diagnosis, with emphasis on comprehensive assessment by the heart valve team to assess suitability and choice of intervention. Surgery is indicated in all symptomatic patients and aortic valve replacement is the cornerstone of treatment. There is consistency in the frequency of follow-up of patients, and safety of non-cardiac surgery in patients without indications for surgery. Discrepancies exist in recommendations for 3D imaging and the use of global longitudinal strain and biomarkers. Cut-offs for left ventricular ejection fraction and size for recommending surgery in severe asymptomatic AR also vary. There are no specific AR cut-offs for high-risk surgery and the role of percutaneous intervention is yet undefined. Recommendations on the treatment of mixed valvular disease are sparse and lack robust prospective data.
Clinical efficacy and safety outcomes of bempedoic acid for LDL-C lowering therapy in patients at high cardiovascular risk: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lin Y , Parco C , Karathanos A , Krieger T , Schulze V , Chernyak N , Icks A , Kelm M , Brockmeyer M , Wolff G
Published: January 2022

Background

Bempedoic acid (BA) is a novel oral low-density lipoprotein cholestrol (LDL-C) lowering drug. Its efficacy and safety for clinical outcomes in high cardiovascular risk patients remains unknown.

Objectives and methods

A systematic review was performed and randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of BA vs. placebo in high cardiovascular risk patients reporting clinical efficacy and safety outcomes were included in a meta-analysis. Cumulative odds ratios (OR) and mean differences with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were reported as summary statistics.

Results

Six RCTs with a total of 3,956 patients and follow-ups of four to 52 weeks were identified. There was no difference in MACE (OR 0.84; CI 0.61, 1.15), all-cause mortality (OR 2.37; CI 0.80, 6.99) and cardiovascular mortality (OR 1.66; CI 0.45, 6.04) for BA vs. placebo. BA showed beneficial trends for nonfatal myocardial infarction (OR 0.57; CI 0.32, 1.00) and was associated with a lower risk of new-onset or worsening of diabetes mellitus (OR 0.68; CI 0.49, 0.94) and non-coronary revascularization (OR 0.41; CI 0.18, 0.95), but higher risk of gout (OR 3.29; CI 1.28, 8.46) and a trend for worsening of renal function (OR 4.24; CI 0.98, 18.39) and muscular disorders (OR 2.60; CI 1.15, 5.91).

Conclusion

Bempedoic acid in high cardiovascular risk patients showed no significant effects on major cardiovascular outcomes in short-term follow-up. Unfavourable effects on muscular disorders, renal function and the incidence of gout sound a note of caution. Hence, further studies with longer-term follow-up are needed to clarify the risk/benefit ratio of this novel therapy.

Funding Acknowledgement

Type of funding sources: None.
A Chromosome-Level Genome Assembly of the Pygmy Mole CricketXya riparia
Authors: Feng Xiaolei , Yang Nan , Wang Qilu , Yuan Hao , Li Xuejuan , Majid Muhammad , Zhang Xue , Cao Chengquan , Huang Yuan
Published: January 2022

The pygmy mole cricket Xya riparia (Orthoptera: Tridactyloidea) is rarely studied or widely known. Some species of pygmy mole crickets, however, not only have a potential ecological value but are also important in the study of the evolution of the orthopteran genome and its phylogenetic relationships. The genome resources of pygmy crickets are limited and there are currently no publications referencing this species’ genome. In this study, we assembled a reference genome of X. riparia at the chromosomal level using nanopore sequencing and Hi-C technology. An X. riparia genome of 1.67 Gb was successfully assembled from 164.01 Gb of nanopore sequencing data. The genome assembly showed a completeness of 98.97% benchmarking universal single-copy orthologs with a contig N50 of 4.18 Mb and the longest contig being 18.84 Mb. The contigs were clustered, ordered, and correctly oriented on six pseuchromosomes, which covered 95.63% of the genome assembly through Hi-C data with a scaffold N50 of 319.1 Mb and the longest scaffold being 397.8 Mb. Repeat sequences accounted for 42.88% of the whole-genome assembly. A total of 60,847 noncoding RNAs were detected. Moreover, 16,468 (87.91%) of the genes were functionally annotated. As this is the first high-quality reference genome of X. riparia at the chromosomal level, it will undoubtedly serve as a valuable resource for ecological, biological, and genetic research on pygmy mole crickets as well as for general research on Orthoptera’s genome evolution and phylogenetic relationships.
Nation Branding in the Andean Community: Decision 876 of 23 April 2021 for a Common Nation Brand Regime
Authors: Blasetti Roxana
Published: January 2022

On 23 April 2021, the Andean Community, comprised of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru, adopted and published Decision 876 regulating the common nation brand regime for its territory. As a result, this integrated bloc of Latin American countries became a pioneer in this area. Decision 876 establishes a common regime for protecting country brands against any possible unauthorized registrations or the use of identical or similar signs in the Community’s Members Countries. It is interesting to note that, unlike other integration blocs in Latin America, the Andean Community has made notable progress in harmonizing regional regulations on intellectual property. In this sense, Decision 876 adds to its extensive legal corpus on the topic, with no similar rule existing in the other integration processes in the region. The Decision sets out the basic criteria related to Member Countries’ and third countries’ nation brands, the procedure for their protection and enforcement, and infringements.
2. Leadership from the Top
Authors: John Peter
Published: January 2022

This chapter examines the general issue of leadership in the British political system and the stresses and strains of this task, examining the role of the prime minister. As well as being leader of the largest party in the House of Commons, able to command a majority, and potentially able to get government business through Parliament and into law, the prime minister has executive powers, which helps keep this focus. Despite the power of the position and its importance in the British system of government, there are fundamental weaknesses in the role that come from the instabilities of party politics. Overall, the picture of prime ministerial and core executive power and capacity is a mixed one that is changeable over time. In recent years, over Brexit and the Covid-19 pandemic, the prime minister's fate can change dramatically, even week-by-week.
11. Backlash
Authors: Dryzek John S.
Published: January 2022

This chapter analyzes an anti-environmental discourse that can be understood as a profound reaction against environmentalism in its entirety. This anti-environmental “gray radicalism,” especially prominent under the Trump presidency in the United States, entails climate change denial, but is much more than that, drawing on populism, extreme conservatism, nationalism, and (in the US) evangelical Christianity. It is opposed to technological progress that would for example replace coal with renewable energy. This chapter locates gray radicalism in relation to right-wing partisan identity, expands on its differences with Promethean discourse, and details how it can be enmeshed in broader “culture wars.” Because gray radicalism is a matter of fundamental identity for its subscribers, it can be difficult to engage through evidence and argument.
12. Encountering the Anthropocene
Authors: Dryzek John S.
Published: January 2022

This chapter examines environmental discourses in light of recognition of humanity’s entry into the Anthropocene, an emerging geological epoch that dramatizes what is at stake in the politics of the Earth. The Anthropocene is the successor to the unusually benign and stable Holocene of the previous 12,000 years, during which human civilization evolved. The human institutions, practices, ideas, and discourses that still dominate the politics of the Earth all took shape under perceived Holocene conditions. The most important quality demanded of the configuration of environmental discourses is now a capacity to generate critical reflection on the trajectory of human societies in the context of an unstable Earth system. This will require meaningful deliberative and democratic engagement across discourses.
2. IR as an Academic Subject
Authors: Sørensen Georg , Møller Jørgen , Jackson Robert
Published: January 2022

This chapter examines how thinking about international relations (IR) has evolved since IR became an academic subject around the time of the First World War. The focus is on four established IR traditions: realism, liberalism, International Society, and International Political Economy (IPE). The chapter first considers three major debates that have arisen since IR became an academic subject at the end of the First World War: the first was between utopian liberalism and realism; the second between traditional approaches and behaviouralism; the third between neorealism/neoliberalism and neo-Marxism. There is an emerging fourth debate, that between established traditions and post-positivist alternatives. The chapter concludes with an analysis of alternative approaches that challenge the established traditions of IR, and with a discussion about criteria for good theory in IR.
5. The European Commission:
Authors: Kassim Hussein
Published: January 2022

This chapter examines the role of the Commission presidency and the development of the office over the Commission’s lifetime. Situating the role played by the president within the context of the Commission’s responsibilities and the division of institutional labour in the wider EU system, it describes the transformation of the office and the emergence of new models of political leadership within the institution. The chapter compares the approach of the three most recent Commission presidents—José Manuel Barroso, Jean-Claude Juncker, and Ursula von der Leyen—in style, policy, and organization. It considers the impact and consequences of presidentialization and presidentialism in the Commission and the EU system.
13. The institutions of the Common Foreign and Security Policy:
Authors: Juncos Ana E.
Published: January 2022

This chapter examines the institutional arrangements in the European Union’s (EU’s) Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). The chapter first charts the historical development of this policy, with foreign policy cooperation being one of the last policy areas to emerge at the EU level. Thus, many of the institutions operating in this area have only been recently established, including the High Representative, the European External Action Service, and many of the administrative bodies supporting the implementation of the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy, which comprises the EU’s civilian and military operations. The chapter then analyses the main institutional actors involved in the CFSP, focusing on their ability to shape the decision-making and implementation of this policy. The following sections also examine the five dimensions of EU institutional politics and how these play out in this particular area, highlighting the key challenges the EU faces in becoming a fully fledged international actor.
16. The European Economic and Social Committee and the Committee of the Regions:
Authors: Abels Gabriele
Published: January 2022

This chapter investigates the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) and the Committee of the Regions (CoR), two bodies established in 1957 and 1992, respectively. Both Committees are consultative; their rationale is to provide expertise to EU legislators and to represent functional respectively territorial interests. These organs share a number of similarities with regard to their legal basis and policymaking influence. Both have pursued diverse activities beyond their official mandates in a quest to find their own identities and exercise voice in the EU system. This chapter analyses these committees with regard to their development, membership, and activities, illustrating how both embraced timely topics and seek to involve themselves in the larger debate on the future of Europe. Thereby, they contribute to the EU’s development as a complex, multilevel, and multichannel democracy.
Current Status of Cytomegalovirus Colitis Among Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease in China: A Questionnaire-Based Multicenter Study
Authors: Yang Hong , Qian Jiaming
Published: January 2022

Background

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) causes infection in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This study investigated the prevalence of CMV colitis, the current status of laboratory testing equipment, and physicians’ opinions regarding CMV and IBD in China.

Methods

This retrospective multicenter study was conducted by Chinese members of the Asian Organization for Crohn’s and Colitis and included 36 hospitals/institutes divided according to municipality, provincial capital city, and prefectural-level city. A survey questionnaire was administered, and chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests were performed.

Results

A total of 4823 inpatients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and 4622 inpatients with Crohn’s disease (CD) were included. The percentages of patients with moderate UC in the provincial capital city and municipality were significantly higher than that in the prefectural-level city (38.3% vs 29.1% and 40.1% vs 29.1%, respectively). The percentage of patients with mild CD was significantly lower in the provincial capital city than in the prefectural-level city and municipality (30.4% vs 40.3%; 30.4% vs 39.3%, respectively). There were 3.1% patients with UC and 0.8% patients with CD who had CMV colitis. The prevalence of CMV colitis was lower in patients with CD than in patients with UC (0.8% vs 3.1%). Of the 150 patients with UC and concurrent CMV colitis, 17.3% patients underwent surgery, 2.0% died, and 23.3% experienced complications. Punched-out ulcerations were the major characteristic features for detecting CMV colitis. Approximately 77.8% of hospitals possessed testing facilities capable of conducting CMV immunohistochemistry.

Conclusions

CMV colitis is an important issue during the disease progression of IBD. However, improvement in knowledge and facilities is required to enhance the prognosis of patients.
Koszul Gorenstein Algebras From Cohen–Macaulay Simplicial Complexes
Authors: D’Alì Alessio , Venturello Lorenzo
Published: January 2022

We associate with every pure flag simplicial complex $\Delta $ a standard graded Gorenstein $\mathbb {F}$-algebra $R_{\Delta }$ whose homological features are largely dictated by the combinatorics and topology of $\Delta $. As our main result, we prove that the residue field $\mathbb {F}$ has a $k$-step linear $R_{\Delta }$-resolution if and only if $\Delta $ satisfies Serre’s condition $(S_k)$ over $\mathbb {F}$ and that $R_{\Delta }$ is Koszul if and only if $\Delta $ is Cohen–Macaulay over $\mathbb {F}$. Moreover, we show that $R_{\Delta }$ has a quadratic Gröbner basis if and only if $\Delta $ is shellable. We give two applications: first, we construct quadratic Gorenstein $\mathbb {F}$-algebras that are Koszul if and only if the characteristic of $\mathbb {F}$ is not in any prescribed set of primes. Finally, we prove that whenever $R_{\Delta }$ is Koszul the coefficients of its $\gamma $-vector alternate in sign, settling in the negative an algebraic generalization of a conjecture by Charney and Davis.
Measurement of Water Activity in the Presence of High Volatile Concentrations Using a Tunable Diode Laser—Single Laboratory Validation, First Action 2021.04
Authors: Campbell Gaylon S , Galloway Mary , Campbell Zachary
Published: January 2022

Background

Water activity is measured by equilibrating a test portion with a sealed head space and measuring the test portion temperature and the vapor density of the head space. The water activity is the ratio of head space vapor density to the saturation vapor density at test portion temperature. Headspace vapor density is typically measured using capacitance or chilled mirror sensors, but, when volatiles in significant concentration are present, these measurements may fail.

Objective

Evaluate the accuracy of a tunable diode laser (TDL) for measuring the headspace vapor density and water activity of pharmaceutical preparations and food in the presence of non-aqueous volatiles.

Methods

A commercial TDL water activity meter was calibrated against standards of known water activity and used to measure water activity of pharmaceutical preparations and food with high concentrations of non-aqueous volatiles

Results

When no volatiles other than water vapor are present, this method is capable of measuring water activity with an accuracy of 0.005 or better. When high concentrations of volatiles such as ethanol, isopropanol, propylene glycol, tetrahydrofuran, or acetonitrile are present the uncertainty of the measurement increases. This is at least partly due to the uncertainty of the standards.

Conclusion

Based on uncertainties in the water activity estimates of the water–organic mixtures, the uncertainties in water activity measurements with high concentrations of non-aqueous solvents is 0.02 or less up to mass fractions of the organic of 0.97.

Highlights

The theoretical background for TDL measurement of water activity is presented showing that the water vapor concentration is proportional to the area of the absorption line which is not affected by the presence of other volatiles.
Ag-EDTA-Zr and Au-EDTA-Zr Nanocomposites for the Quantitative Determination of Some Organophosphate Pesticides in Water and Tomatoes
Authors: Gasparyan Vardan K
Published: January 2022

Background

Organophosphate pesticides (OP) pose risks to health and the environment, and monitoring them is an urgent task.

Objective

Development of a method for their determination in water and food.

Method

A simple photometric method for the determination of some OPs was demonstrated. Ag-EDTA-Zr and Au-EDTA-Zr nanoparticles were synthesized and were applied for the determination of some OPs (dimethoate, chlorpyrifos, and diazinon).

Results

It was demonstrated that silver nanoparticles provide more sensitivity in comparison to gold nanoparticles. As a result, Ag-EDTA-Zr nanoparticles were further applied for the determination of these pesticides in tomatoes.

Conclusions

The lowest detectable concentrations for dimethoate, diazinon, and chlorpyrifos in water reached 0.1 (SD 0.082), 0.4 (SD 0.075), and 0.4 mg/L (SD 0.088), respectively, whereas in tomato the lowest detectable concentrations for these pesticides were 0.5 (SD 0.789), 2 (SD 0.085), and 0.5 mg/L (SD 0.088). The sensitivity of detection in tomatoes is lower than in water; however, these concentrations are comparable with allowable concentrations of OP pesticides.

Highlights

A novel approach for quantitative detection of OPs was developed. Ag-EDTA-Zr and Au-EDTA-Zr nanocomposites interact with these pesticides, and, as a result, optical changes of these nanoparticles take place. These changes correlate with the concentration of pesticides.