bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Durability and repeatability of professional cyclists during a Grand Tour
Authors: Muriel Xabier , Mateo‐March Manuel , Valenzuela Pedro L. , Zabala Mikel , Lucia Alejandro , Pallares Jesús G. , Barranco‐Gil David
Published: September 2021

Durability and repeatability (i.e. the ability to sustain high power output values under fatigue and to endure repeated high‐intensity efforts, respectively) are emerging as cycling performance determinants. We aimed to analyze whether these markers differ between professional cyclists of two competition levels (WorldTour [WT] and Proteam [PT]) during a Grand Tour. We studied 8 WT and 7 PT cyclists who competed in “La Vuelta 2020”. Durability was assessed with the mean maximal power (MMP) values attained between 5 sec–30 min after different levels of mechanical work done (0–35 kJ·kg−1). Repeatability was assessed as the ability to repeat efforts >95% MMP. Although no differences were found for durability during the whole race (p = 0.209), a significant interaction effect was found in separate analyses by week (p = 0.011). Thus, during the first week and in the “fresh” state (0 kJ·kg−1), WT cyclists solely attained significantly higher MMP values for 30‐min efforts. However, these differences enlarged with accumulating levels of fatigue (e.g. significantly higher MMP values in WT cyclists for 30‐sec, 1‐min, 5‐min, 20‐min and 30‐min efforts after 35 kJ·kg−1). On the other hand, no between‐group differences were found in repeatability for the whole race (p = 0.777) or in separate analyses by week (p = 0.808). In summary, the present results support the role of durability (but not of repeatability) as a performance indicator during professional cycling races.

Highlights

The present study suggests that cyclists from different professional team categories (WorldTour [WT] or ProTeam [PT]) show comparable mean maximal power (MMP) values during a Grand Tour when fatigue is not considered.

However, WT cyclists seem to attain greater MMP values than PT ones as the race progresses (from the first to the third week) and with accumulating levels of work done (from 0 to 35 kJ·kg−1) during a given stage.

In turn, no differences were found between WT and PT cyclists in the number of high‐intensity efforts (>95% of their individual MMP) performed during the race.

These findings would highlight the role of durability (the ability to attenuate fatigue‐induced decline in performance during prolonged exercise) as a determining factor of cycling performance.
Synthesis of vertically aligned wafer-scale tantalum disulfide using high-Ar/H2S ratio plasma
Authors: Seok Hyunho , Lee Inkoo , Cho Jinill , Sung Dougyong , Baek In-Keun , Lee Cheol-Hun , Kim Eungchul , Jeon Sanghuck , Park Kihong , Kim Taesung
Published: September 2021

Nanostructural modification of two-dimensional (2D) materials has attracted significant attention for enhancing hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity. In this study, the nanostructure of TaS2 films was controlled by controlling the Ar/H2S gas ratio used in plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). At a high Ar/H2S gas ratio, vertically aligned TaS2 (V-TaS2) films were formed over a large-area (4 in) at a temperature of 250 °C, which, to the best of our knowledge, is the lowest temperature reported for PECVD. Furthermore, the plasma species formed in the injected gas at various Ar/H2S gas ratios were analyzed using optical emission spectroscopy to determine the synthesis mechanism. In addition, the 4 in wafer-scale V-TaS2 was analyzed by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and atomic force microscopy, and the HER performance of the as-synthesized TaS2 fabricated with various Ar/H2S ratios was measured. The results revealed that, depending on the film structure of TaS2, the HER performance can be enhanced owing to its structural advantage. Furthermore, the excellent stability and robustness of V-TaS2 was confirmed by conducting 1000 HER cycles and post-HER material characterization. This study provides important insights into the plasma-assisted nanostructural modification of 2D materials for application as enhanced electrocatalysts.
Perpendicular magnetization and exchange bias in epitaxial NiO/[Ni/Pt]2 multilayers
Authors: Huang Lin-Ao , Wang Mei-Yu , Wang Peng , Yuan Yuan , Liu Ruo-Bai , Liu Tian-Yu , Lu Yu , Chen Jia-Rui , Wei Lu-Jun , Zhang Wei , You Biao , Xu Qing-Yu , Du Jun
Published: September 2021

The realization of perpendicular magnetization and perpendicular exchange bias (PEB) in magnetic multilayers is important for the spintronic applications. NiO(t)/[Ni(4 nm)/Pt(1 nm)]2 multilayers with varying the NiO layer thickness t have been epitaxially deposited on SrTiO3 (001) substrates. Perpendicular magnetization can be achieved when t < 25 nm. Perpendicular magnetization originates from strong perpendicular magnetic anisotropy (PMA), mainly resulting from interfacial strain induced by the lattice mismatch between the Ni and Pt layers. The PMA energy constant decreases monotonically with increasing t, due to the weakening of Ni (001) orientation and a little degradation of the Ni–Pt interface. Furthermore, significant PEB can be observed though NiO layer has spin compensated (001) crystalline plane. The PEB field increases monotonically with increasing t, which is considered to result from the thickness dependent anisotropy of the NiO layer.
First lattice QCD calculation of semileptonic decays of charmed-strange baryons Ξ
c

*
Authors: Zhang Qi-An , Hua Jun , Huang Fei , Li Renbo , Li Yuanyuan , Lü Caidian , Sun Peng , Sun Wei , Wang Wei , Yang Yibo
Published: September 2021

While the standard model is the most successful theory to describe all the interactions and constituents of elementary particle physics, it has been constantly scrutinized for over four decades. Weak decays of charm quarks can be used to measure the coupling strength between quarks in different families and serve as an ideal probe for CP violation. As the lowest charm-strange baryons with three different flavors,

baryons (composed of

or

) have been extensively studied in experiments. In this study, we use state-of-the-art lattice QCD techniques to generate 2+1 clover fermion ensembles with two lattice spacings,

. Then, we present the first ab-initio lattice QCD calculation of the

form factors. Our theoretical results for the

decay widths are consistent with and approximately two times more precise than the latest measurements by the ALICE and Belle collaborations. Based on the latest experimental measurements, we independently obtain the quark-mixing matrix element

, which is in good agreement with results from other theoretical approaches.
Research on the Application of BIM Technology in Bridge Design
Authors: Li Pengcheng
Published: September 2021

There are some practical problems in bridge engineering, such as high construction risk, special construction technology, complex construction equipment and so on, which lead to high difficulty in the construction activities of bridge engineering, especially large-scale bridge engineering. With its utilization in bridge design, BIM Tech can effectively guarantee the amelioration of bridge design quality and efficiency, which has important research value. Based on this, this paper first analyses the connotation and value of BIM Tech, and then studies the utilization points of BIM Tech in the bridge design stage. Finally, the utilization path of BIM Tech in bridge design is given.
Application of BIM technology in safety management of construction engineering
Authors: Yan Baohua
Published: September 2021

In recent years, my country has made great breakthroughs in technical construction technology. B.IM is a new technology that has emerged [1] The most emerging solution has solved the role of safety management in construction projects. In the process of construction engineering, safety management bears the brunt of construction safety. It all depends on how well its foundation is built. However, for the safety of construction engineering, China still has a higher defense against BI M technology. It is just from a planning design. From the construction to the management stage, a unified and coordinated process. In order to better realize the construction project, the B IM technology is adopted, which seems to be a simple 3D 4D file. In fact, BM is not only convenient to use, but also extremely safe. The building information model is used by the digital building director to express that the construction of buildings in the world is simpler and more convenient than the traditional design for the use of traditional computer-aided design. Compared with traditional design, BIM can provide accurate information. Responsibilities of each participant of the project during their respective operation and work, responsible for the information they possess to add reasonable application of this building information model.
The Application of Big Data Technology in Computer Artificial Intelligence Technology
Authors: Zou Feng , Ye Lizhu , Liu Yunxiang , Zhou Yunfeng
Published: September 2021

Compared with the traditional artificial intelligence design, the artificial intelligence automation design of big data has obvious economic applicability. In recent years, with the continuous development of the field of artificial intelligence design in China, artificial intelligence design has been effectively innovated and promoted, and big data technology, as the representative of which, also plays an obvious role. By expatiating the design, manufacturing and construction concepts of artificial intelligence in the new era, this paper analyzes the principle of big data technology and its deep integration with artificial intelligence.
Application of Big Data in Monitoring and Evaluation of Water Ecological Environment
Authors: Ma Huanying , Xiong Ying , Hou Xin , Shu Qiaosheng
Published: September 2021

Under the influence of the current society into information, big data analysis has been applied in various fields, and is no exception in the monitoring and evaluation of water ecological environment. It uses its own advantages to collect relevant data. It has far-reaching application in water environment monitoring and evaluation.
Computer-aided design method for random patterns of apparel fabrics
Authors: Wang Ping
Published: September 2021

Random pattern is a pure digital art done by computer design, which can be widely used in clothing fabric pattern. This article introduces the method of using Photoshop general image processing software with external filter plug-in to design and produce random patterns for apparel fabrics.
Research on Simulation Optimization and Construction of Deep Foundation Pit Earthwork Excavation Based on BP Nerve Network
Authors: Wei Yaping
Published: September 2021

Deep foundation pit excavation not only faces complex hydro-geological and engineering geological conditions, but also meets many unknown engineering risks. Deep foundation pit excavation not only faces complex hydro-geological and engineering geological conditions, but also needs to make full use of BP nerve network. Based on this, this paper first analyzes the connotation and function of BP nerve network, then studies the simulation of deep foundation pit construction earthwork excavation, and finally gives the BP nerve network simulation and optimization method of deep foundation pit construction earthwork excavation.
Research on Road Route Selection Design Based on Google Earth Intelligent System
Authors: Zhao Xuetao
Published: September 2021

At present, in the field of road route selection design, the traditional auxiliary processing method has some shortcomings, such as high cost, not suitable for large-scale application and so on. Based on this, this paper first analyses the connotation of Google Earth and its role in road route selection design, then studies the specific application of Google Earth intelligent system in road route selection design, and finally gives the implementation path of road route selection design based on Google Earth.
Research on the Implementation of Recursive Algorithm Based on C Language
Authors: Zhu Zhigang , Sun Wei
Published: September 2021

In the utilization of C language, it often appears that the function calls itself directly or indirectly, that is, the function calls itself recursively. The recursive solution of the same kind of problem can be expressed by recursion, and the specific problem can be reduced by recursion. Based on this, this paper first analyses the concept and function of C language recursion, then studies the process description of recursion algorithm, and finally gives the implementation strategy of C language recursion algorithm.
Research on the Application of Computer Cloud Computing Technology in Laboratory Management Based on Docker Platform
Authors: Yang Suiming , Jia Hanshuang , Bai Yun
Published: September 2021

The balance of experimental resources needs the help of distributed resource scheduling algorithm to integrate the discrete resources logically, and plan the scheduling and application uniformly, so as to ameliorate the utilization efficiency of resources, which provides a broad space for the application of Docker tech. Based on this, this paper first analyses the concept and connotation of Docker container platform, then studies the construction of laboratory cloud platform based on Docker platform, and finally gives the utilization effect of laboratory management cloud platform based on Docker tech.
Research on Algorithms in Platform Parametric Design Based on GC Building Design
Authors: Yuan Jupu , Ye Feng
Published: September 2021

Nowadays, digital technology has been applied in various fields. As far as the architectural design industry is concerned, computer-aided design and artificial intelligence simulation design have greatly improved the design technology of the architectural industry. This paper mainly elaborates the new possibilities brought by the parameterized software GC to the construction industry.
On-line Fault Diagnosis Technology and Application Based on Deep Learning of Fault Characteristic of Power Grid
Authors: Teng Shuyu , Li Jun , He Shiqi , Fan Binglong , Hu Shaofei
Published: September 2021

In order to solve the problem of low accuracy of devices fault diagnosis in intelligent grid dispatching control system, this paper proposes a fault diagnosis method based on deep learning theory. First, building deep learning diagnosis models for various devices by extracting the characteristics of historical fault samples and training them. Then, when the dispatching control system of smart grid detects the risk and the online diagnosis function will integrate real-time fault signals for calling the diagnosis model. Finally, the probability value of this faulty device tripping will be obtained. In this paper, an online diagnosis system based on deep learning is built and its effectiveness in improving the accuracy of trip fault identification.
Cloud Computing Resource Scheduling Based on Improved Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Sun Shiyun
Published: September 2021

With the limited resources of Cloud computing (hereinafter referred to as CC), we must improve the quality of scheduling and cost optimization. Therefore, we must organically integrate the resource pool of servers and computers, which will distribute resources dynamically according to the needs of users. Through CC Resource scheduling (hereinafter referred to as RS), we can improve resource utilization, which will greatly reduce the use cost. Through the CC sharing architecture model, we can implement QoS according to different needs of users, which can achieve flexible resource allocation. Therefore, we need to reasonably design the CC RS and allocation model, which will improve the resource utilization. At the same time, this algorithm can share information among individuals. However, the general PSO (hereinafter referred to as PSO) algorithm has the problem of discretization. This paper proposes an Improved PSO (hereinafter referred to as FPSO) algorithm, which can better solve the RS problem. Firstly, the goal of task scheduling is proposed. Then, an FPSO algorithm is proposed. Finally, some suggestions are put forward.
Analysis of Application of Numerical Control Technology in Mechanical Manufacturing
Authors: Zhao Yong
Published: September 2021

The continuous development of modern information technology has made numerical control technology widely used in mechanical manufacturing. The degree of mechanization of human society has also begun to gradually increase, and mechanical equipment can be seen in almost all social production activities. Numerical control technology is an effective technology in the machining process. Judging from the actual development of China’s machinery manufacturing industry, the application of numerical control technology has greatly improved the integration and automation of machining. Starting from the current development of CNC machining technology in our country, this paper specifically analyzes the application of Numerical control technology in the machinery manufacturing industry, and prospects the future development trend of CNC machine tools in this technology.
Research on Ultrasonic Phased Array Detection Technology for Internal Defects of Automobile Ductile Iron Components Based on Computer Technology
Authors: Wang Zhe , Li Xiahui
Published: September 2021

With the rapid development of automobile industry, ductile iron component has become one of the most important components, which is the core components in many aspects, such as engine crankshaft, wheel hub, etc., which will be subject to extremely complex loads. Therefore, the crankshaft R region is particularly prone to fatigue cracks, which requires us to continuously strengthen the internal defect detection technology. With the development of detection technology, conventional ultrasonic technology has been unable to meet the needs of society. Through electronic scanning and acoustic beam deflection focusing, we gradually improve the Ultrasonic phased array detection technology (hereinafter referred to as UPADT), which can better realize the detection of automobile ductile iron components. UPADT is a kind of ordered excitation to the beam element, which can realize the deflection and focusing of the sound beam [1]. By combining sector scanning, electron scanning and DDF, we can achieve more beam incident modes, which will have faster detection speed and more accurate sensitivity.
Application Analysis of Image Rrecognition Technology in Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Fu Yu
Published: September 2021

In the process of the information age, the image recognition technology in artificial intelligence has been used in various fields as a mature technology, infiltrating into our daily life, providing convenience for various work. In the field of information processing, it can process all kinds of information more quickly by using computer instead of human to identify information. Now in our interactive life with information, there is no lack of contact between image recognition technology and us. This paper will start from the meaning and principle of image recognition technology in artificial intelligence, and analyze its development status.
Research on Key Technologies of Automatic Acceptance of OCS Four Telemetry Signals
Authors: Wang Jin , Liu Qiangxing , Geng Changzuo
Published: September 2021

Generally speaking, the so-called power system dispatching automation, in fact, refers to the use of computer remote communication technology and remote control technology to monitor and coordinate the operation of the power system, and then process the problems and faults in the process of operation, and ultimately achieve the automated management and operation of the power system. In view of the development of smart grid, this paper introduces a fully automatic combined wave generator based on OCS system and human-machine interface. The power dispatching automation system needs the development of automation, intelligence and self-healing, and puts forward the importance of ensuring the normalization of the dispatching automation four remote signals. And the method of efficient point-to-point debugging starting from the master control unit or the remote engine node under the condition that the device is completely unpowered, and the functional requirements of the point-to-point debugging software using the method are elaborated in detail. Through the signal transmission, the monitoring main station analyzes and processes the information centrally, and finally realizes the unattended and remote monitoring of the substation.
Realization Research of Single Chip Microcomputer and Computer Remote Communication
Authors: Zhang Chengfa , Feng Weiyan
Published: September 2021

In recent years, with the development of computer technology, the integration of computer remote communication technology with single-chip microcomputer is the main research direction.This research will greatly promote the development of related fields.This paper mainly focuses on the construction principle of remote communication between single-chip microcomputer and computer,at the same time, it also summarizes the realization of remote communication between single-chip microcomputer and computer.
Research on the Application of Multi-scale & Multi-sensor Fusion Algorithm in MEMS Gyroscope Data Processing
Authors: Zhu Hongjie
Published: September 2021

The application of multi-scale and multi-sensor data fusion algorithm in sensor data processing, especially the data fusion of MEMS gyroscope, can greatly improve the accuracy after fusion. Based on this, this paper first analyzes the concept of multi-scale multi-sensor data fusion, then studies the application status of multi-scale multi-sensor data fusion, and finally gives the application of multi-scale multi-sensor data fusion algorithm in MEMS gyroscope data processing.
Study on Photovoltaic Absorption Capacity Evaluation of Distribution Network Based on Improved FPA Computer Algorithm
Authors: Xin Angbei , Xiao Chi , Hong Fu
Published: September 2021

FPA algorithm is a new metaheuristic swarm intelligent optimization algorithm for solving optimization problems.In order to promote the further development of China's solar power industry, the National Energy Administration has issued a document to promote distributed photovoltaic power generation system, encouraging photovoltaic power generation to be combined with the needs of users, in cities, villages and buildings and public facilities to promote the system.When calculating the maximum surplus ratio of photovoltaic power generation, it is necessary to select a certain power supply area, clarify its power supply mode, power transmission capacity and path, and calculate the value by fitting the photovoltaic power generation and load characteristic curve.In this paper, based on the characteristics of photovoltaic power generation and the typical load, by studying the create a new index of photovoltaic power generation given abilities distribution network, in the process of dynamic change periodically given capacity of photovoltaic research evaluation, set up photovoltaic maximum surplus "than" index, according to the calculation analysis of factors affecting given distributed photovoltaic power generation capacity and its influence on construction of distribution network transformation, and puts forward Suggestions on construction of photovoltaic power generation demonstration area.
Research on the Simulation Training System of Substation Primary Equipment Inspection Based on Computer VR Technology
Authors: Dong Yinghua , Yang Xin , Yang Lu , Liu Xi , Zhang Renhui
Published: September 2021

At present, most of the substation primary equipment inspection simulation training system still has many shortcomings, such as the high cost of the simulation system, the simulation effect is not intuitive enough, the simulation scene is not realistic enough and so on. Based on this, this paper first analyses the concept and function of computer VR simulation tech, then studies the characteristics of substation patrol simulation training system under VR tech, and finally gives the construction strategy and process of substation primary equipment patrol simulation training system based on computer VR tech.
Research on the Function of Substation Training Simulation Patrol Function Based on Computer VR Technology
Authors: Dong Yinghua , Liu Xi , Yang Lu , Gun Mingzhen , Wang Xiujing
Published: September 2021

With the development of computer VR technology, our country has applied VR virtual technology to the scale of power grids.This allows the system to achieve self-intelligent inspection when no one is on duty,and the detection data will be displayed efficiently.This paper mainly studies the intelligent inspection scenarios and system processes of substations.
The bohmion method in nonadiabatic quantum hydrodynamics
Authors: Holm Darryl D , Rawlinson Jonathan I , Tronci Cesare
Published: September 2021

Starting with the exact factorization of the molecular wavefunction, this paper presents the results from the numerical implementation in nonadiabatic molecular dynamics of the recently proposed bohmion method. Within the context of quantum hydrodynamics, we introduce a regularized nuclear Bohm potential admitting solutions comprising a train of δ-functions which provide a finite-dimensional sampling of the hydrodynamic flow paths. The bohmion method inherits all the basic conservation laws from its underlying variational structure and captures electronic decoherence. After reviewing the general theory, the method is applied to the well-known Tully models, which are used here as benchmark problems. In the present case of study, we show that the new method accurately reproduces both electronic decoherence and nuclear population dynamics.
Influence of nano particles on the performance parameters of lube oil – a review
Authors: Singh Anoop Pratap , Dwivedi Ravi Kumar , Suhane Amit
Published: September 2021

This review focuses on the effect of nanoparticles in lubricating oil performance. The impact of chemical composition, particle size, and nanoparticle shape is evaluated on lubricants’ lubricating capabilities. The effects of base oils and surfactants, and dispensers are also covered. This review demonstrates a comparative study of nanoparticles based on the maximum reduction in friction and wears values and the obtained minimum coefficient of friction (COF). The above three performance parameters collectively provide a better understanding of the role of nanoparticles in lubricating oil performance.
Singularity of random symmetric matrices revisited
Authors: Campos Marcelo , Jenssen Matthew , Michelen Marcus , Sahasrabudhe Julian
Published: September 2021

Let

M
n

M_n

be drawn uniformly from all

±
1

\pm 1

symmetric

n
×
n

n \times n

matrices. We show that the probability that

M
n

M_n

is singular is at most

exp
⁡
(
−
c
(
n
log
⁡
n

)

1

/

2

)

\exp (-c(n\log n)^{1/2})

, which represents a natural barrier in recent approaches to this problem. In addition to improving on the best-known previous bound of Campos, Mattos, Morris and Morrison of

exp
⁡
(
−
c

n

1

/

2

)

\exp (-c n^{1/2})

on the singularity probability, our method is different and considerably simpler: we prove a “rough” inverse Littlewood-Offord theorem by a simple combinatorial iteration.
Interactions of ubiquitin and CHMP5 with the V domain of HD-PTP reveals role for regulation of Vps4 ATPase
Authors: Pashkova Natalya , Yu Liping , Schnicker Nicholas J. , Tseng Chun-Che , Gakhar Lokesh , Katzmann David J. , Piper Robert C.
Published: September 2021

Structural studies reveal that the V domain of HD-PTP has two tandem binding sites for binding ubiquitin. Like its yeast counterpart Bro1, HD-PTP binds the Vps4 MIT domain, stimulating its activity in a manner that is augmented by ubiquitin binding.
Novel monkey mAbs induced by a therapeutic vaccine targeting the hepatitis B surface antigen effectively suppress hepatitis B virus in mice
Authors: Chen Yuanzhi , Xiang Xinchu , Qi Ruoyao , Wang Yiwen , Huang Yang , You Min , Xian Yangfei , Wu Yangtao , Fu Rao , Kang Ciming , Tang Jixian , Yu Hai , Zhang Tianying , Yuan Quan , Luo Wenxin , Xia Ningshao
Published: September 2021

Background

We have previously obtained a mouse anti-hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) antibody E6F6 with long-lasting serum HBsAg clearance effects. The E6F6 epitope-based protein CR-T3-SEQ13 (HBsAg aa 113-135) vaccination therapy in cynomolgus monkeys induced long-term polyclonal antibodies-mediated clearance of HBsAg in the HBV transgenic (HBV-Tg) mice.

Methods

We isolated monoclonal antibodies from CR-T3-SEQ13 vaccinated cynomolgus monkeys, compared their therapeutic effects with E6F6, identified their epitopes on HBsAg, determined the pharmacokinetics and studied their physical property.

Results

A panel of anti-HBsAg mAbs was generated through memory B cell stimulatory culture. Two lead monkey-human chimeric antibodies, C1-23 and C3-23, effectively suppressed HBsAg and HBV DNA in HBV-Tg mice. The humanized antibodies and humanized-mouse reverse chimeric antibodies of two antibodies exhibited comparable HBsAg clearance and viral suppression efficacy as those versions of E6F6 in HBV-Tg mice. Humanized antibody hu1-23 exhibited more efficacy HBsAg-suppressing effects than huE6F6-1 and hu3-23 in HBV-Tg mice at dose levels of 10 and 20 mg/kg. Evaluation of the binding sites indicates that the epitope recognized by hu1-23 is located in HBsAg aa 118-125 and 121-125 for hu3-23. Physical property study revealed that hu1-23 and hu3-23 are stable enough for further development as a drug candidate.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the CR-T3-SEQ13 protein is a promising HBV therapeutic vaccine candidate, and hu1-23 and hu3-23 are therapeutic candidates for the treatment of chronic hepatitis b. Moreover, the generation of antibodies from the epitope-based vaccinated subjects may be an alternative approach for novel antibody drug discovery.
Explaining Ethnic Differentials in COVID-19 Mortality: A Cohort Study
Authors: Batty G David , Gaye Bamba , Gale Catharine R , Hamer Mark , Lassale Camille
Published: September 2021

Ethnic inequalities in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) hospitalizations and mortality have been widely reported, but there is scant understanding of how they are embodied. The UK Biobank prospective cohort study comprises approximately half a million people who were aged 40–69 years at study induction, between 2006 and 2010, when information on ethnic background and potential explanatory factors was captured. Study members were prospectively linked to a national mortality registry. In an analytical sample of 448,664 individuals (248,820 women), 705 deaths were ascribed to COVID-19 between March 5, 2020, and January 24, 2021. In age- and sex-adjusted analyses, relative to White participants, Black study members experienced approximately 5 times the risk of COVID-19 mortality (odds ratio (OR) = 4.81, 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.28, 7.05), while there was a doubling in the South Asian group (OR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.30, 3.25). Controlling for baseline comorbidities, social factors (including socioeconomic circumstances), and lifestyle indices attenuated this risk differential by 34% in Black study members (OR = 2.84, 95% CI: 1.91, 4.23) and 37% in South Asian individuals (OR = 1.57, 95% CI: 0.97, 2.55). The residual risk of COVID-19 deaths in ethnic minority groups may be ascribed to a range of unmeasured characteristics and requires further exploration.
Identification of Mep1a as a susceptibility gene for atherosclerosis in mice
Authors: Grainger Andrew T. , Pilar Nathanael , Li Jun , Chen Mei-Hua , Abramson Ashley M. , Becker-Pauly Christoph , Shi Weibin
Published: September 2021

Atherosclerosis is the underlying cause of heart attack, ischemic stroke and peripheral arterial disease, and genetic factors involved remain mostly unidentified. We previously identified a significant locus on mouse chromosome 17 for atherosclerosis, Ath49, in an intercross between BALB/c and SM strains. Ath49 partially overlaps in the confidence interval with Ath22 mapped in an AKR × DBA/2 intercross. Bioinformatics analysis prioritized Mep1a, encoding meprin 1α metalloendopeptidase, as a likely candidate gene for Ath49. To prove causality, Mep1a−/−Apoe−/− mice were generated and compared with Mep1a+/+Apoe−/− mice for atherosclerosis development. Mep1a was found abundantly expressed in atherosclerotic lesions but not in healthy aorta and liver of mice. Mep1a−/− Apoe−/− mice exhibited significant reductions in both early and advanced lesion sizes. Loss of Mep1a led to decreased necrosis but increased macrophage and neutrophil contents in advanced lesions, reduced plasma levels of CXCL5 and an oxidative stress biomarker. In addition, Mep1a−/− mice had significantly reduced triglyceride levels on a chow diet. Thus, Mep1a is a susceptibility gene for atherosclerosis and aggravates atherosclerosis partially through action on oxidative stress and inflammation.
Sporadic occurrence of recent selective sweeps from standing variation in humans as revealed by an approximate Bayesian computation approach
Authors: Laval Guillaume , Patin Etienne , Boutillier Pierre , Quintana-Murci Lluis
Published: September 2021

During their dispersals over the last 100,000 years, modern humans have been exposed to a large variety of environments, resulting in genetic adaptation. While genome-wide scans for the footprints of positive Darwinian selection have increased knowledge of genes and functions potentially involved in human local adaptation, they have globally produced evidence of a limited contribution of selective sweeps in humans. Conversely, studies based on machine learning algorithms suggest that recent sweeps from standing variation are widespread in humans, an observation that has been recently questioned. Here, we sought to formally quantify the number of recent selective sweeps in humans, by leveraging approximate Bayesian computation and whole-genome sequence data. Our computer simulations revealed suitable ABC estimations, regardless of the frequency of the selected alleles at the onset of selection and the completion of sweeps. Under a model of recent selection from standing variation, we inferred that an average of 68 (from 56 to 79) and 140 (from 94 to 198) sweeps occurred over the last 100,000 years of human history, in African and Eurasian populations, respectively. The former estimation is compatible with human adaptation rates estimated since divergence with chimps, and reveals numbers of sweeps per generation per site in the range of values estimated in Drosophila. Our results confirm the rarity of selective sweeps in humans and show a low contribution of sweeps from standing variation to recent human adaptation.
A SIMPLE AND NOVEL APPROACH TO STUDY KINETICS AND ESTIMATE RADIATION DOSES FROM INTERNALLY ADMINISTERED RADIOPHARMACEUTICALS USING AN EXTERNAL DOSE MEASUREMENT SYSTEM
Authors: Nautiyal Amit , Mondal Tanmoy , Mitra Deepanjan , Goel Alpana , Dey Subrata Kumar , Kaushik Aruna
Published: September 2021

Various methods have been reported to study radiotracer kinetics and make internal dosimetry feasible in the routine clinical nuclear medicine practice. The aim of the present study was to quantify cumulative activity and organ doses using an indigenously designed and fabricated external dose measurement system. The measurement was demonstrated on patients undergoing whole-body (WB) 18F-FDG (Fluorine-18-fluorodeoxyglucose) direct positron emission tomography/computed tomography investigations. An external dose measurement system comprising of an ionisation chamber-survey meter and the movable focussing collimator was used to quantify the uptake of 18F-FDG in liver and brain. Cumulative activity and normalised cumulative activity in these organs were calculated. The results were validated by performing measurements on a phantom uniformly filled with known activity of 18F-FDG.The difference in the absorbed dose estimated with and without collimator was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The external dose measurement technique is relatively novel, convenient and reliable for the assessment of internal absorbed dose of organs.
Tradition, Sovereignty, and Conservation: The Controversy Surrounding the Wind River Indian Reservation Game Code
Authors: Hodge Adam R
Published: September 2021

In December 1983, a highly publicized slaughter of over fifty elk at Wind River Indian Reservation reignited a dispute between the reservation’s resident tribes—the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho nations—over wildlife management. In response to diminished big game populations, the Eastern Shoshone Tribe had passed hunting regulations in 1980, but the people of the Northern Arapaho Tribe refused to do so, effectively derailing any attempt to manage wildlife at Wind River. After the Bureau of Indian Affairs imposed a game code on the reservation in 1984, the Northern Arapaho Tribe initiated a legal battle that culminated in the 1987 case of Northern Arapahoe Tribe v. Hodel. The court ruled that because the treaty rights of the two tribes overlapped in the area of wildlife management and because research conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at the request of both tribes had revealed a need for hunting regulations, the U.S. government had the power to impose the Wind River Reservation Game Code. Although the tribes jointly manage wildlife today and big game populations now thrive at Wind River, it is important to examine the controversy that involved conflicting visions of and concerns about cultural traditions, tribal sovereignty, and wildlife conservation principles and practices. Exploring how Eastern Shoshones and Northern Arapahos viewed those subjects differently and how their longstanding rivalry at Wind River shaped this conflict highlights some problems with the simplistic and romanticized concept of the “Ecological Indian.”
Acute toxoplasmosis mimicking metastatic lymphadenopathy of sarcoma
Authors: Koyama Masamichi , Terauchi Takashi , Koizumi Mitsuru , Maekawa Takashi , Ae Keisuke
Published: September 2021

Introduction:

Clear cell sarcoma is a rare malignant neoplasm with the potential to metastasize to lymph nodes. We report herein a case of acute toxoplasmosis that mimicked metastatic lymphadenopathy from treated clear cell sarcoma on 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography. Toxoplasmosis is usually asymptomatic in immunocompetent hosts. Acute acquired toxoplasmosis clinically manifests as lymphadenopathy predominantly involving the cervical nodes.

Patient concerns:

A 45-year-old woman underwent resection of subcutaneous clear cell sarcoma of the right knee. PET/CT performed four years after surgery revealed multiple sites of lymphadenopathy with avid FDG uptake in the right neck, left axilla, left pulmonary hilum, and right inguinal regions. The patient was afebrile and asymptomatic. Metastases were suspected and excisional biopsy of a left axillary node was performed.

Diagnoses:

Histopathological examination revealed reactive lymphadenitis, suggesting toxoplasmic infection without evidence of malignancy. Serum levels of toxoplasmic immunoglobulin (Ig)M antibodies were high. Serum IgG antibodies were significantly elevated in six weeks from the PET/CT examination. The patient had a cat at home, which could have represented the source of infection.

Interventions:

The patient was carefully monitored using regular imaging examinations.

Outcomes:

FDG accumulations resolved spontaneously on follow-up examination one year later.

Conclusion:

We report a case in which toxoplasmic lymphadenitis mimicked malignant lymphadenopathy. Lymphadenopathy at a distant site from the primary malignancy with FDG avidity may be due to infectious or inflammatory conditions, creating false-positive results.
Hereditary Angioedema in Pregnancy
Authors: Chair Irene I. , Binkley Karen E. , Betschel Stephen D.
Published: September 2021

Importance

Hereditary angioedema is a rare disease of potentially life-threatening attacks of angioedema that can affect patients of all ages, including women of childbearing age. Pregnancy can affect the course of the disease and the choice of treatment used. It is important for the care providers to recognize this disease and understand its mechanism in order to provide appropriate care for the patients.

Objective

The goal of this article is to provide an overview of hereditary angioedema and guideline for management of pregnant patients with hereditary angioedema.

Evidence Acquisition

A search of the available English language literature was performed on PubMed and Ovid MEDLINE using the key words hereditary angioedema and pregnancy. Additional articles were selected from the reference lists of the reviewed articles.

Results

The data for hereditary angioedema in pregnant patients come from observational studies, case reports, retrospective reviews, and questionnaires. The course of hereditary angioedema can be variable between different patients and pregnancies. Plasma-derived C1 inhibitor concentrate is both safe and effective as treatment for attacks and as preventive therapy in pregnancy. With proper recognition, understanding of the disease, and appropriate medical management, most patients will undergo successful pregnancy and delivery.

Conclusions and Relevance

Clinicians should maintain high suspicion for this disease when patients present with recurrent episodes of angioedema without urticaria or severe abdominal pains of unclear etiology. Treatment plans during pregnancy and delivery should be individualized, and the patient's care should be shared by a clinician experienced in the management of this disease.

Target Audience

Obstetricians and gynecologists, family physicians

Learning Objectives

After participating in this activity, the readers should be better able to identify the potential morbidity and mortality associated with hereditary angioedema; describe how hereditary angioedema can affect the care plan and outcome of pregnancy in affected patients, including labor and delivery; and explain what treatments are used in the management of hereditary angioedema during pregnancy.
A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Multimedia Patient Education Tool for Stress Versus Urgency Urinary Incontinence
Authors: Schroeder Michelle , Plotner Elisabeth A. , Sharma Shefali , Hunter Krystal , Spector Sean , Lipetskaia Lioudmila
Published: September 2021

(Abstracted from Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2021;27:403–408)

Using different modalities for patient education can improve patients' understanding of their disease and treatment plans. Multimedia-based patient counseling—which includes images, voice, and animation—may be one alternative to traditional, conversation-based patient counseling of complex medical information.
Continued Versus Discontinued Oxytocin Stimulation in the Active Phase of Labour (CONDISOX): Double Blind Randomised Controlled Trial
Authors: Boie Sidsel , Glavind Julie , Uldbjerg Niels , Steer Philip J. , Bor Pinar ,   on behalf of the CONDISOX Trial Group
Published: September 2021

(Abstracted from BMJ 2021;372:n716)

Oxytocin stimulation is often used to induce labor. According to 4 meta-analyses, discontinuing oxytocin stimulation once active labor has begun may have some benefits, including reducing the rate of cesarean delivery.
Which features of an outpatient treatment for COVID-19 would be most important for pandemic control? A modelling study
Authors: Lanoix Jean-Philippe , Mammeri Youcef , Schmit Jean-Luc , Lefranc Michel
Published: September 2021

The global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has challenged healthcare systems worldwide. Lockdown, social distancing, and screening are thought to be the best means of stopping the virus from spreading and thus of preventing hospital capacity from being overloaded. However, it has also been suggested that effective outpatient treatment can control pandemics. We adapted a mathematical model of the beneficial effect of lockdown on viral transmission and used it to determine which characteristics of outpatient treatment would stop an epidemic. The data on confirmed cases, recovered cases, and deaths were collected from Santé Publique France. After defining components of the epidemic flow, we used a Morris global sensitivity analysis with a 10-level grid and 1000 trajectories to determine which of the treatment parameters had the largest effect. Treatment effectiveness was defined as a reduction in the patients' contagiousness. Early treatment initiation was associated with better disease control—as long as the treatment was highly effective. However, initiation of a treatment with a moderate effectiveness rate (5%) after the peak of the epidemic was still better than poor distancing (i.e. when compliance with social distancing rules was below 60%). Even though most of today's COVID-19 research is focused on inpatient treatment and vaccines, our results emphasize the potentially beneficial impact of even a moderately effective outpatient treatment on the current pandemic.
The energy of muscle contraction. IV. Greater mass of larger muscles decreases contraction efficiency
Authors: Ross Stephanie A. , Wakeling James M.
Published: September 2021

While skeletal muscle mass has been shown to decrease mass-specific mechanical work per cycle, it is not yet known how muscle mass alters contraction efficiency. In this study, we examined the effect of muscle mass on mass-specific metabolic cost and efficiency during cyclic contractions in simulated muscles of different sizes. We additionally explored how tendon and its stiffness alters the effects of muscle mass on mass-specific work, mass-specific metabolic cost and efficiency across different muscle sizes. To examine contraction efficiency, we estimated the metabolic cost of the cycles using established cost models. We found that for motor contractions in which the muscle was primarily active during shortening, greater muscle mass resulted in lower contraction efficiency, primarily due to lower mass-specific mechanical work per cycle. The addition of a tendon in series with the mass-enhanced muscle model improved the mass-specific work and efficiency per cycle with greater mass for motor contractions, particularly with a shorter excitation duty cycle, despite higher predicted metabolic cost. The results of this study indicate that muscle mass is an important determinant of whole muscle contraction efficiency.
Early warning signals of infectious disease transitions: a review
Authors: Southall Emma , Brett Tobias S. , Tildesley Michael J. , Dyson Louise
Published: September 2021

Early warning signals (EWSs) are a group of statistical time-series signals which could be used to anticipate a critical transition before it is reached. EWSs are model-independent methods that have grown in popularity to support evidence of disease emergence and disease elimination. Theoretical work has demonstrated their capability of detecting disease transitions in simple epidemic models, where elimination is reached through vaccination, to more complex vector transmission, age-structured and metapopulation models. However, the exact time evolution of EWSs depends on the transition; here we review the literature to provide guidance on what trends to expect and when. Recent advances include methods which detect when an EWS becomes significant; the earlier an upcoming disease transition is detected, the more valuable an EWS will be in practice. We suggest that future work should firstly validate detection methods with synthetic and historical datasets, before addressing their performance with real-time data which is accruing. A major challenge to overcome for the use of EWSs with disease transitions is to maintain the accuracy of EWSs in data-poor settings. We demonstrate how EWSs behave on reported cases for pertussis in the USA, to highlight some limitations when detecting disease transitions with real-world data.