bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ecological generalism drives hyperdiversity of secondary metabolite gene clusters in xylarialean endophytes
Authors: Franco Mario E. E. , Wisecaver Jennifer H. , Arnold A. Elizabeth , Ju Yu‐Ming , Slot Jason C. , Ahrendt Steven , Moore Lillian P. , Eastman Katharine E. , Scott Kelsey , Konkel Zachary , Mondo Stephen J. , Kuo Alan , Hayes Richard D. , Haridas Sajeet , Andreopoulos Bill , Riley Robert , LaButti Kurt , Pangilinan Jasmyn , Lipzen Anna , Amirebrahimi Mojgan , Yan Juying , Adam Catherine , Keymanesh Keykhosrow , Ng Vivian , Louie Katherine , Northen Trent , Drula Elodie , Henrissat Bernard , Hsieh Huei‐Mei , Youens‐Clark Ken , Lutzoni François , Miadlikowska Jolanta , Eastwood Daniel C. , Hamelin Richard C. , Grigoriev Igor V. , U’Ren Jana M.
Published: November 2021

Although secondary metabolites are typically associated with competitive or pathogenic interactions, the high bioactivity of endophytic fungi in the Xylariales, coupled with their abundance and broad host ranges spanning all lineages of land plants and lichens, suggests that enhanced secondary metabolism might facilitate symbioses with phylogenetically diverse hosts.

Here, we examined secondary metabolite gene clusters (SMGCs) across 96 Xylariales genomes in two clades (Xylariaceae s.l. and Hypoxylaceae), including 88 newly sequenced genomes of endophytes and closely related saprotrophs and pathogens. We paired genomic data with extensive metadata on endophyte hosts and substrates, enabling us to examine genomic factors related to the breadth of symbiotic interactions and ecological roles.

All genomes contain hyperabundant SMGCs; however, Xylariaceae have increased numbers of gene duplications, horizontal gene transfers (HGTs) and SMGCs. Enhanced metabolic diversity of endophytes is associated with a greater diversity of hosts and increased capacity for lignocellulose decomposition.

Our results suggest that, as host and substrate generalists, Xylariaceae endophytes experience greater selection to diversify SMGCs compared with more ecologically specialised Hypoxylaceae species. Overall, our results provide new evidence that SMGCs may facilitate symbiosis with phylogenetically diverse hosts, highlighting the importance of microbial symbioses to drive fungal metabolic diversity.
Tropical Storms and Temporary Migration in Vietnam
Authors: Berlemann Michael , Tran Thi Xuyen
Published: November 2021

In this paper, we provide the first household‐level empirical multievent study of temporary internal migration as a consequence of tropical storms. In order to do, so we combine three waves of the Vietnam Household Living Standard Survey with geo‐referenced tropical cyclone data from the Best Track Archive for Climate Stewardship. Based on the resulting panel dataset, we study temporary emigration patterns evolving in the aftermath of occurring storms in the sample communes. We find robust empirical evidence in favor of a significant push effect on temporary migration. Occurring storms increase the likelihood that a household sends members to other regions in Vietnam. Storms also tend to increase the number of absent household members and absence time. Moreover, we show that occurring storms increase both seasonal and long‐term absences.
Congenital anomalies of the large intrathoracic airways
Authors: Johansen Mathias , Veyckemans Francis , Engelhardt Thomas
Published: November 2021

Congenital lung lesions are numerous but rare in individual clinical practice. They do require close multidisciplinary collaboration between health care professionals. This educational review will focus on the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, surgical approaches, and anesthetic management of congenital anomalies of the large intrathoracic airways: congenital tracheal stenosis, tracheal agenesis, tracheal diverticulum, bronchial anomalies (tracheal, esophageal, or bridging bronchus), congenital lung malformations, lung sequestrations and Scimitar syndrome, lobar emphysema, Williams–Campbell syndrome, and pleuropulmonary blastoma. In addition, this review will illustrate common pitfalls and challenges related to the anesthesia management with emphasis on ventilation and correct endotracheal tube positioning.
Lost to follow‐up in the Norwegian mother, father and child cohort study
Authors: Vejrup Kristine , Magnus Per , Magnus Maria
Published: November 2021

Background

The aim of pregnancy cohorts was to understand causes and development of health and disease throughout the life course. A major challenge in cohort studies is to avoid selection bias from loss to follow‐up.

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe what characterises drop out from the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), and provide a resource to inform the interpretation of results from analysis of cohort data.

Methods

We estimated loss to follow‐up in subsets of participants that responded to questionnaire waves in MoBa through an eight‐year period and described characteristics of participants who responded to follow‐ups. Within each wave of questionnaires, we estimated two exposure‐outcome associations: the relationship between maternal smoking during pregnancy and offspring birthweight, and between educational level and pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI). We explored the use of inverse probability weighting to correct the bias due to loss to follow‐up.

Results

Participants who continued to respond were older, higher educated, less likely to smoke and had lower BMI. We observed a decline in participation of current smokers from 22.3% to 17.5%, and participants who reported an unplanned pregnancy dropped from 19.2% to 16.4%. There was a gradual decline in the inverse relationship between maternal smoking during pregnancy and offspring birthweight with increasing follow‐up information, indicating that selection bias due to drop out resulted in lower effect estimates. For the relationship between parental educational level and BMI, the inverse association increased with amount of follow‐up information, indicating that the selection bias resulted in higher effect estimates. Inverse probability weighting did not completely correct the estimates for bias due to loss to follow‐up.

Conclusions

Participants who remain cohort members are different from subjects who drop out. Users of large cohorts should be aware of selective loss to follow‐up and consider imputation or weighting to account for loss to follow‐up when analysing questionnaire responses.
EU integration and structural gravity: A comprehensive quantification of the border effect on trade
Authors: Spornberger Julia
Published: November 2021

This study delivers a comprehensive picture of EU trade integration in manufactured goods using a structural gravity framework together with a flexible two‐step estimation approach. With panel data, time‐invariant effects on trade are typically absorbed by fixed effects. This paper shows how to include both time‐variant and time‐invariant effects on trade into general equilibrium counterfactual experiments. Results show that the time‐invariant effects or, in other words, the initial integration degree of the incumbent EU‐15 members should not be neglected as it already increased intra‐EU trade shares by 70% until 1995. Since then, trade integration has not deepened for the EU‐15, while trade shares among the newly joined central and eastern EU members doubled. A further deepening of the Single Market could potentially unlock another 50% increase in trade and around 3% in welfare (real income).
Shoreline migration paths and depositional architecture of early–mid Miocene deltaic clinoforms in response to sea‐level changes in the north‐eastern shelf margin, South China Sea
Authors: Zhang Xin , Lin Changsong , Zhang Zhongtao , Feng Xuan , Zhang Bo , Bei Ruiming , Shu Liangfeng , Jiang Jing , Xing Zuochang , Sun Hui
Published: November 2021

Shoreline trajectory analysis improves the understanding of the correlation between clinoform architecture, shoreline and shelf‐edge development, and sea‐level changes. This study uses cores, well‐logs and seismic data to investigate the depositional architecture and shoreline migration paths of early−mid Miocene deltaic clinoforms in the northern Pearl River Mouth basin, South China Sea. Five clinoform types are observed, including sigmoidal, oblique, tangential oblique, parallel oblique and sigmoidal‐oblique clinoforms. Both the rollovers of deltaic clinoforms in seismic sections and the transitional points between delta plain and delta front deposits in well correlation cross‐sections can be used as the indicators for shoreline positions, provided that there are no significantly extended subaqueous deltas. This allows for the identification of three shoreline trajectory types from a single clinoform set and three major stages from the net shoreline trajectory for multiple clinoform sets. A landward‐directed net shoreline trajectory and ascending shoreline trajectories dominate in Stage 1 (23.8 to 17.5 Ma) with sigmoidal clinoforms transitioning into parallel oblique clinoforms, suggesting a rise in third and fourth‐order relative sea level. Stage 2 (17.5 to 13.8 Ma) displays flat or descending trajectories and an overall seaward‐directed net trajectory with a change from parallel to tangential oblique clinoform, indicating a relative sea‐level fall. The reoccurrence of sea‐level rise in Stage 3 (13.8 to 10.5 Ma) was inferred by a landward migration of parallel oblique clinoforms. This study shows that shoreline trajectory and net shoreline trajectory plotted from both seismic and well data is consistent with the regional sea‐level curves estimated from foraminiferal fossil records and the shelf‐edge development, which can be used to estimate the third and fourth‐order relative sea‐level changes in passive margins with wide, low‐gradient shelves. Furthermore, clinoform architecture and migration may have been controlled by the variations of subsidence/uplift and sediment supply produced by tectonic events.
Ratio of serum amyloid A to C‐reactive protein is constant in the same patients but differs greatly between patients with inflammatory diseases
Authors: Saiki Osamu , Uda Hiroshi
Published: November 2021

C‐reactive protein (CRP) is commonly monitored to track the activity of inflammation and has become the gold standard in the management of all inflammatory diseases. Indeed, serum amyloid A (SAA) have seemed to correlate moderately with CRP, but the discrepancy of CRP and SAA levels has often been reported, especially in rheumatoid arthritis. Then, we examined CRP reflects a real magnitude of inflammation in patients with rheumatic and infectious inflammatory diseases. A total of 414 patients with infectious and non‐infectious inflammatory diseases were enrolled. At initial visit, each patient underwent a clinical assessment and had also laboratory tests such as SAA and CRP. In each patient, we carried out a longitudinal analysis of CRP and SAA levels. We determined the inter‐individual correlation between SAA and CRP and also clarified intra‐individual changes of SAA/CRP ratio. SAA and CRP levels changed approximately linearly over time within individuals irrespective of rheumatic and infectious inflammatory diseases. However, SAA/CRP ratios differed dramatically between patients (from 0.117 to 50.8, median 5.71). In patients with high SAA/CRP ratio (>8.44), SAA is a better predictor of inflammation than CRP. In contrast, CRP is a better predictor in patients with low ratio (<3.52). Our results suggest that the SAA/CRP ratio differed greatly between individuals but was constant in intra‐individuals. Low CRP levels could be accompanied by SAA levels predicting any degree of inflammation, implying that CRP is not reflecting a real magnitude of inflammation. To evaluate the real magnitude of inflammation, to access the SAA/CRP ratio in advance is essential.
Whiteness and Impunity: Examining Virginia's Second Amendment Sanctuary Movement
Authors: Garnar Tracy , Lister Sione Lynn Pili , Carlson Jennifer
Published: November 2021

How do people who consider themselves law abiding mobilize against “offensive” laws? Stated differently, how do people assert impunity? Although sociologists robustly document the unequal administration of American law, most focus on the production and legitimation of racial disparities through punishment rather thanimpunity. We use theories of Whiteness to analyze Virginia’s Second Amendment sanctuary resolutions, illuminating how impunity is reproduced as a White prerogative, to engage sociological debates surrounding race and the legal system. These resolutions draw on an ideology of rights centered on the sanctification of the Constitution to buttress their standing and affirm gun‐owning Americans as enactors/defenders of social order by decrying state efforts to restrict gun access. Our analysis suggests that Second Amendment sanctuary supporters assert a relation of impunity between themselves and the law by reflecting and reproducing White habitus and by reconstructing the rule of law through reliance on exclusionary tropes involving American values, tradition, and Constitutionality. Our analysis reveals that resolution supporters routinely asserted Second Amendment sanctuaries as White sanctuaries, tying Whiteness to gun rights and shaping how social structures (including laws) are organized.
COVID‐19 vaccination timing and kidney transplant waitlist management: An international perspective
Authors: Caliskan Yasar , Axelrod David , Guenette Alexis , Lam Ngan N. , Kute Vivek , Alhamad Tarek , Schnitzler Mark A. , Lentine Krista L.
Published: November 2021

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for solid organ transplant programs worldwide. The aim of this study is to assess an international perspective on challenges faced by kidney transplant programs.

Methods

We administered an electronic survey instrument from January 3, 2021 to June 8, 2021 to staff at transplant programs outside the United States that comprised of 10 questions addressing the management of kidney transplant candidates with asymptomatic COVID‐19 infection or unvaccinated who receive an organ offer.

Results

Respondents (n = 62) represented 19 countries in five continents. Overall, 90.3% of respondents encourage vaccination on the waiting list and prior to planned living donor transplant. Twelve percent of respondents reported that they have decided to inactivate unsensitized candidates (calculated panel reactive antibody, cPRA <80%) until they received the two doses of vaccination, and 7% report inactivating candidates who have received their first vaccine dose pending receipt of their second dose. The majority (88.5%) of international respondents declined organs for asymptomatic, nucleic acid testing (NAT)+ patients during admission without documented prior infection. However, 22.9% of international respondents proceeded with kidney transplant in NAT+ patients who were at least 30 days from initial diagnosis with negative chest imaging.

Conclusions

Practitioners in some countries are less willing to accept deceased donor organs for waitlist candidates with incomplete COVID‐19 vaccination status and to wait longer before scheduling living donor transplant, compared to United States practices. Access to vaccinations and other resources may contribute to these differences. More research is needed to guide the optimal approach to vaccination before and after transplant.
Autoantibodies to red blood cell surface Glycophorin A impact the activation poise of circulating leukocytes
Authors: Klein Matthew N. , Larkin Emily J. , Marshall Juliana N. , Fan Xiaoxuan , Parry Philippe , Tirouvanziam Rabindra , Fontaine Magali J.
Published: November 2021

Background

Both M and N alleles encode antigens on Glycophorin A (GPA), a red blood cell (RBC) surface sialoglycoprotein. Interaction between RBC GPA and leukocyte surface lectins may downregulate their activation. The current study investigates if RBC autoantibodies against GPA, such as auto‐anti‐M/N, prime an activated phenotype in peripheral blood leukocytes.

Methods

Leukocyte activation was assessed in whole blood from patients with auto‐anti‐GPA (anti‐M/N) and compared to those with allo‐anti‐M/N and healthy subjects. Control samples from healthy subjects with no antibodies incubated in vitro with either anti‐GPA or anti‐Rh were analyzed for neutrophil and monocyte surface activation marker expression, reactive oxygen species (ROS) content, and formation of aggregates with RBCs. Samples incubated with an IgG1 isotype antibody served as controls.

Results

Ex vivo, neutrophil CD66b and monocyte CD63 surface expression was increased in patients with auto‐anti‐M/N compared to those with allo anti‐M/N (p = .1757; p = .0698) and to healthy subjects (p = .0186; p = .013). In vitro, neutrophil CD66b and monocyte CD63 surface expression was increased following incubation with anti‐GPA compared to anti‐Rh (p = .0003; p = .0328) and isotype control (p = .000; p = .0062). Intracellular ROS content increased in both neutrophils and monocytes incubated with anti‐GPA compared to anti‐Rh (p = .0012; p = .0693) and isotype control (p = .001; p = .0021). Percentage of neutrophil‐RBC aggregates was decreased when incubated with anti‐GPA compared to isotype control (p < .01).

Conclusions

Neutrophils and monocytes in peripheral blood exposed to an antibody directed against GPA on RBC surfaces, such as M or N antigens, may be primed towards an activated phenotype.
Efficacy of olanexidine gluconate in canine superficial pyoderma: a randomised, single‐blinded controlled trial
Authors: Hsiao Yun‐Hsia , Imanishi Ichiro , Iyori Keita
Published: November 2021

Background

Topical treatments can be beneficial for managing canine superficial pyoderma. A novel antiseptic agent, olanexidine gluconate, has become available recently for use in humans, and its efficacy for canine pyoderma as topical therapy is unknown.

Objective

The antimicrobial effect of olanexidine was evaluated using minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) towards Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. Furthermore, its clinical efficacy in canine superficial pyoderma was assessed in a randomized, single‐blinded study.

Animals

Twenty‐eight client‐owned dogs with atopic dermatitis and superficial pyoderma.

Methods and materials

The MIC of olanexidine was determined for S. pseudintermedius isolates (n=73) by serial dilution of 96‐well broth microdilution method. Regarding the clinical trial, all recruited dogs were randomized into two groups; one treated with 1.5% olanexidine spray once daily and the other with a 3% chlorhexidine shampoo once a week for 2 times, respectively. Clinical assessment was performed at days 0 and 14 according to the guidelines of the Japanese Society of Antimicrobials for Animals.

Results

The MIC values for methicillin‐resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) and methicillin‐sensitive S. pseudintermedius (MSSP) were 0.23 μg/ml and 0.24 μg/ml (P =0.9), respectively. In clinical trial, olanexidine and chlorhexidine showed substantial improvement in clinical presentation compared to the baseline.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Olanexidine showed comparable efficacy to chlorhexidine (P=0.73). Moreover, the MIC against S. pseudintermedius indicated high bactericidal activity, which was supported by the topical effectiveness of olanexidine.
Whole genome sequencing and de novo assembly of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius: a pangenome approach to unravelling pathogenesis of canine pyoderma
Authors: Ferrer Lluís , García‐Fonticoba Rocío , Pérez Daniel , Viñes Joaquim , Fàbregas Norma , Madroñero Sergi , Meroni Gabriele , Martino Piera A. , Martínez Sofía , Maté M. Laura , Sánchez‐Bruni Sergio , Cuscó Anna , Migura‐García Lourdes , Francino Olga
Published: November 2021

Background

Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is the main aetiological agent of canine pyoderma. Whole genome sequencing is the most comprehensive way of obtaining relevant genomic information about micro‐organisms.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Oxford Nanopore technology enables quality sequencing and de novo assembly of the whole genome of S. pseudintermedius. Whole genome analysis of S. pseudintermedius may help to better understand the pathogenesis of canine pyodermas.

Methods and materials

Twenty‐two strains of S. pseudintermedius isolated from the skin of five healthy dogs and 33 strains isolated from skin of 33 dogs with pyoderma were analysed. DNA was extracted and sequenced using Oxford Nanopore MinION, a new technology that delivers longer reads in a hand‐held device. The pangenome was analysed and visualised with Anvi’o 6.1.

Results

Nanopore technology allowed the sequencing and de novo assembly of the genomes of 55 S. pseudintermedius strains isolated from healthy dogs and from dogs with pyoderma. The average genome size of S. pseudintermedius was 2.62 Mbp, with 48% being core genome. Pyoderma isolates contained a higher number of antimicrobial resistance genes, yet the total number of virulence factors genes did not change between isolates from healthy dogs and from dogs with pyoderma. Genomes of meticillin‐resistant S. pseudintermedius (MRSP) strains were larger than those of meticillin‐susceptible (MSSP) strains (2.80 Mbp versus 2.59 Mbp), as a consequence of a greater presence of antimicrobial resistance genes, phages and prophages.

Conclusions and clinical importance

This technique allows much more precise and easier characterisation of canine S. pseudintermedius populations and may lead to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of canine pyodermas.
Immunopathogenesis and immunotherapy of Culicoides hypersensitivity in horses: an update
Authors: Marti Eliane , Novotny Ella N. , Cvitas Iva , Ziegler Anja , Wilson A. Douglas , Torsteinsdottir Sigurbjörg , Fettelschoss‐Gabriel Antonia , Jonsdottir Sigridur
Published: November 2021

Culicoides hypersensitivity (CH) is a strongly pruritic dermatitis of horses, characterised histologically by mixed perivascular to diffuse cellular infiltrates of mononuclear cells and eosinophils, and caused by helper T cell (Th)2, immunoglobulin (Ig)E‐mediated reactions to antigens present in the saliva of biting Culicoides midges. As treatment of CH is still not satisfactory, a better knowledge of the pathogenesis of CH is needed for the development of new therapeutic modalities. Accordingly, availability of pure Culicoides allergens instead of crude whole body extracts is essential for the improvement of in vitro diagnosis of CH and development of a more effective allergen immunotherapy (AIT). Beside the Th2 cytokines interleukin (IL)‐4 and IL‐13, recent studies have shown the involvement of thymic stromal lymphopoietin, IL‐5 and IL‐31 in the pathogenesis of CH. The importance of IL‐5 and IL‐31 has been confirmed through targeting these cytokines by active immunisation of CH patients, resulting in a significant decrease of CH lesion scores. Thirty Culicoides salivary allergens have been described over the last 10 years and produced as pure recombinant (r‐) proteins. Use of a protein microarray has allowed the identification of the most relevant Culicoides r‐allergens for CH in central and northern Europe. An immunisation protocol has been developed for preventive AIT against CH. Small amounts of r‐Culicoides allergens injected into the submandibular lymph nodes with Alum/MPLA as adjuvants seem to induce a suitable immune response for both preventive and therapeutic AIT. The next years will reveal whether these recent advancements will translate into an improved diagnosis, treatment and prevention of CH.
Microplastics throughout a tap water supply network
Authors: Dalmau‐Soler Joan , Ballesteros‐Cano Rubèn , Ferrer Núria , Boleda M. Rosa , Lacorte Sílvia
Published: November 2021

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the presence of microplastics in drinking water along a large distribution water supply network. Tap water was collected in situ at sampling cabinets using an in‐line sampling procedure that provided a representative sample with minimal risk of external contamination and avoided the transportation of large volumes to the laboratory. Microplastics > 50 μm were analysed via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Microplastics were detected in 38% of samples with a mean concentration of 0.01 microplastics per litre and polymers identified were polypropylene (PP), polyester (PES) and polyamide (PA). Detection of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and silicone particles were associated to the maintenance of cabinets. This study contributes to increase the knowledge regarding the presence and behaviour of microplastics throughout a large drinking water supply network providing water to 3 000 000 inhabitants. Results indicate that the pipes and the supply network not release microplastics into the drinking water.
Use of EBP as a Problem‐Solving Approach to Improve Patient Satisfaction While Overcoming the COVID Pandemic Barriers
Authors: Berryman Jeri
Published: November 2021

Background

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services requires hospitals to meet rigorous patient satisfaction requirements for reimbursement. One metric used for patient satisfaction is call light responsiveness within a unit.

Aims

To meet target call light responsiveness benchmarks at a 45‐bed telemetry, medical–surgical nursing unit within a Magnet® designated hospital.

Methods

An evidence‐based practice (EBP) project model was utilized. The chief nursing officer worked with an EBP nurse mentor. A PICOT (Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome, and Time) question was developed to guide the literature search. Literature was critically appraised, and a resulting intervention was established. Nurse educators taught the unit nurses how to perform the intervention, and intervention integration was assessed via direct observation. Call light responsiveness data were collected to assess whether targets were met.

Results

Five articles were deemed as applicable to the PICOT question, and the best evidence determined that using the 4Ps (pain, presence, “potty,” and positioning) during structured registered nurse (RN) care rounding every 2 h improved patient outcomes. After RN education and implementation, hospital call light responsiveness began to improve.

Linking Evidence to Action

Rounding without intention increases RN workload and does not result in improved patient outcomes or a satisfied patient. RN rounding every 2 h is effective and efficient when done with intention (i.e., adhering to the 4Ps). RN patient rounds done every 2 h with intention improved patient satisfaction and other patient outcomes such as a decrease in call light usage.
Optical and Numerical Investigations of Flame Propagation in a Heavy Duty Spark Ignited Natural Gas Engine
Authors: Liu Jinlong , Ulishney Christopher , Dumitrescu Cosmin E.
Published: November 2021

Increasing the natural gas (NG) use in heavy-duty engines is beneficial for reducing greenhouse-gas emissions from power generation and transportation. However, converting compression ignition (CI) engines to NG spark ignition operation can increase methane emissions without expensive aftertreatment, thereby defeating the purpose of utilizing a low carbon fuel. The widely accepted explanation for the low combustion efficiency in such retrofitted engines is the lower laminar flame speed of natural gas. In addition, diesel engine’s larger bowl size compared to the traditional gasoline engines increases the flame travel length inside the chamber and extends the combustion duration. However, optical measurements performed in this study suggested that a fast-propagating flame was developed inside the cylinder even at extremely lean operation. This was supported by a three-dimensional numerical simulation, which indicated that the squish region of the bowl-in-piston chamber generated a high turbulence intensity inside the bowl. However, the flame propagation experienced a sudden 2.25x reduction in speed when transiting from the bowl to the squish region. Such a phenomenon was caused by the large decrease in the turbulence intensity inside the squish region during the combustion process. Moreover, the squish volume trapped an important fuel fraction, and it is this fraction that experienced a slow and inefficient burning process during the expansion stroke. This resulted in increased methane emissions and reduced combustion efficiency. Overall, it was the specifics of the combustion process inside a bowl-in-piston chamber not the methane’s slow laminar flame speed that contributed to the low methane combustion efficiency for the retrofitted engine. The results suggest that optimizing the chamber shape is paramount to boost engine efficiency and decrease its emissions.
A Numerical Study on the Effects of EGR Dilution in a Pre-Chamber Ignited Natural Gas Engine
Authors: Chinnathambi Prasanna , Kim Joohan , Scarcelli Riccardo , Som Sibendu , Shah Ashish , Biruduganti Munidhar S. , Longman Douglas E.
Published: November 2021

Lean burn natural gas engines offer low particulate emissions than diesel counterparts and provides higher efficiency when compared to stoichiometric operation. However, with the lean burn strategy, three-way catalysts (TWC) compatibility is lost due to the oxidized exhaust stream. In comparison, the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) dilution strategy can maintain compatibility with emission after-treatment systems. The maximum tolerated EGR levels are limited by the combustion stability degradation resulting from unfavorable mixture gas composition. Prechamber spark ignition (PCSI) systems, known to increase dilution tolerance in SI engines under lean conditions, was evaluated as a means to improve EGR dilution tolerance. Scavenging of residuals within the pre-chamber is typically a concern with these systems and as such studies on these systems working with various levels of EGR ratios are rare. In this work, an unscavenged (or unfueled, or passive) PCSI system installed in a medium-duty natural gas engine is modeled using CONVERGE CFD code. Simulation results are compared against the experimental data in terms of in-cylinder pressure and heat release rates from low to high (10% to 22%) EGR levels. The prediction capability of two combustion models, a multi-zone well-stirred reactor model and a flamelet-based combustion model, i.e. G-equation, are compared and evaluated under these conditions within the RANS framework. The G-equation model predictions agreed well with experiments up to 18.8% EGR dilution level. In comparison, the MZ-WSR model predicted slow prechamber combustion at all dilution levels which influenced the main chamber combustion phasing.
Large Eddy Simulation of Gasoline Sprays in a Lagrangian-Eulerian Framework Using the High-Order Spectral Element Method
Authors: Colmenares F. Juan D. , Ameen Muhsin M. , Patel Saumil S.
Published: November 2021

Predicting the spray evolution using simulations requires accurate modeling of the turbulent gas-phase flow field. In this study, the high-order spectral-element method (SEM), implemented in the code Nek5000, was used to provide highly-resolved solutions to the turbulent flow field. Spray modeling capabilities were implemented into the Nek5000 code. The spray is modeled in a Lagrangian-Eulerian (LE) framework, where the liquid is represented by discrete parcels of droplets. The method for coupling liquid and gas in the context of SEM is described, which allows for very fine meshes to be used without affecting the stability of the solution. Large-eddy simulations (LES) of the eight-hole ECN Spray G gasoline injector were conducted. Numerical results are compared against experimental data for liquid penetration, droplet size and gas velocity. The morphology of the multi-plume spray is compared against experimental data. The effect of different spray injection inputs is analyzed. It was found that using a plume direction of 33° and an injection cone angle of 30° produced the best results overall. This work shows the applicability of SEM for spray modeling applications, where use of a high-order flow solver can help us understand the multi-plume spray aerodynamics and how it leads to plume collapse under certain conditions. Results also highlight the need for tuning spray input parameters in the LE framework, even when high-fidelity gas flow solutions are possible.
Transient Thermo-Mechanical Stress Analysis of Hot Surface Probe Using Sequentially Coupled CFD-FEA Approach
Authors: Kang Sang-Guk , Ryu Je Ir , Motily Austen H. , Numkiatsakul Prapassorn , Lee Tonghun , Kriven Waltraud M. , Kim Kenneth S. , Kweon Chol-Bum M.
Published: November 2021

Energy addition using a hot surface probe is required for reliable ignition of aircraft compression ignition engines running on fuel variations and at altitude conditions. Thus, durability of the hot surface probe is crucial for application in these engines. Thermo-mechanical stress is one of the key parameters that determine durability, which requires an accurate prediction of the transient temperature field based on well-defined boundary conditions representing the dynamic and complex fluid flow inside engines. To meet this requirement, the present study focuses on transient thermo-mechanical stress analysis using a sequentially coupled CFD-FEA approach to understand transient thermo-mechanical responses of the hot surface probe. A 3D transient reacting flow simulation was conducted first using CONVERGE software, the results of which were exported to map thermal and pressure boundary conditions onto a structural finite element mesh. Transient thermo-mechanical stress analysis was performed sequentially using ABAQUS software utilizing the mapped boundary conditions. The results such as transient temperature history, resultant thermo-mechanical stress, displacement, potential failure modes, etc. were critically reviewed, which can provide helpful information for further design improvement.
The Induction Coil
Authors: Greenslade Thomas B.
Published: November 2021

In an earlier article I argued that much of what used to be called “modern physics” stems from the intersection of two earlier technologies: high vacuum and high voltage. In this article I will discuss the induction coil, invented in the 1830s, reinvented in the second half of the 19th century, and still used today to produce the high voltages used to excite gaseous and high-vacuum discharge tubes.
3D-Printed Labs: A Force Table and Simple Pulleys
Authors: Vera Francisco , Ortiz Manuel , Villanueva Jaime , Horta-Rangel Francisco Antonio
Published: November 2021

In this paper we explain how to build a very sensitive force table using 3D-printed parts. The key component of this apparatus is a simple sensitive pulley that, together with the other components, can be printed in one day (one hour per pulley, 17 hours for a complete three-pulleys table) at the cost of 160 g of plastic filament. This force table can be used in a vertical position on a whiteboard for an all-class discussion or in a horizontal position for personal or group usage. The design includes calibrated mass hangers that use coins or small metal pellets as weights. To view the files, go to https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5019204.
Interference of Two Point Sources Using Smartphones
Authors: Organtini Giovanni
Published: November 2021

A simple experimental setup using a smartphone and a pair of speakers is presented to perform an accurate experiment on interference of two point sources. The proposed experiment allows simple but interesting measurements to be done to introduce students to interference and diffraction phenomena. As such, the experiment effectively introduces the classical Young’s double-slit interference experiment, and can be used as a replacement for the classical ripple tank.
Newton’s Green and Goethe’s Purple – Color Experiments with LEDs
Authors: Hanisch C. , Ziese M. , Oehme W.
Published: November 2021

White light refracted by a glass edge or a prism might be split into the colors of the rainbow but, when restricted by a suitable arrangement of edges, might also yield a sequence of colors complementary to the rainbow. We studied the creation of these color fields experimentally with a setup consisting of RGB light-emitting diodes that cover all color combinations of the three primary colors red, green, and blue. These light fields were projected through a prism onto a screen or a camera to generate various color fields by refraction. Applying the rules of additive color mixing, a simple RGB model based on the slit spectrum of the light convincingly reproduces the observed color patterns. The parallel use of model and experiment enables a clear recognition of unusual spectra from particularly combined light fields and yields an explanation of their origin.
ECG Voltage and Vector Analysis for Heart Axis Determination
Authors: Farnsworth Erica , Milanick Mark A.
Published: November 2021

Often students think of ECGs (electrocardiograms) as a diagnostic tool for heart attacks. In this activity, students are able to develop an approach to examine an ECG in order to determine what is known as the mean electrical axis (MEA) of their ventricle. In doing so, they not only learn another use for ECGs, they are able to see a real-world application and gain an understanding of dipoles and of vector analysis.
Determining the speed of sound in different gases with a dog whistle
Authors: Vogt Patrik , Kasper Lutz , Rädler Matthias
Published: November 2021

Various experiments on vibrating gas columns and on frequency measurements with glasses and pipes have been presented in recent years in the “iPhysicsLabs” column. The determination of the sound velocity in different gases by measuring the sound running time has also already been proposed in an earlier paper. This article now adds another experiment to this series. Just by using a commercially available whistle (e.g., dog whistle, bobby whistle, or shrill whistle) and a smartphone with a spectroscope app, the speed of sound in various gases can be estimated. This experiment’s chief merits are the straightforward experimental setup, the consumption of only small amounts of gas, the high measurement accuracy, and especially the simple theoretical background.
Three-dimensional modeling of T-wave generation and propagation from a South Mid-Atlantic Ridge earthquake
Authors: Lecoulant Jean , Oliveira Tiago C. A. , Lin Ying-Tsong
Published: November 2021

A three-dimensional (3D) hybrid modeling method is used to study the generation and propagation of T waves in the ocean triggered by a Southern Mid-Atlantic Ridge earthquake. First, a finite-element method model named SPECFEM3D is used to propagate seismic waves in the crust and acoustic waves in the ocean for the T-wave generation in a 200 × 50 km area near the epicenter. A 3D parabolic equation (PE) method is then used to propagate the T waves in the ocean for about 850 km further to the hydrophone stations deployed by the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) near Ascension Island. All of the simulations considered the realistic bathymetry and water sound speed profile. The SPECFEM3D results suggest that T waves with clear modal features could be generated by the concentration of reflected head waves in two depressions 40 km away from the epicenter. To compare with the hybrid modeling method for calculating T-wave propagation losses and arrival azimuths at the CTBTO hydrophones, point source simulations using the 3D PE model from the T waves source locations, identified with SPECFEM3D, were also implemented. The advantages and limitations of each approach are discussed.
Estimating hearing aid fitting presets with machine learning–based clustering strategies
Authors: Belitz Chelzy , Ali Hussnain , Hansen John H. L.
Published: November 2021

Although there exist nearly 35 × 106 hearing impaired people in the U.S., only an estimated 25% use hearing aids (HA), while others elect not to use prescribed HAs. Lack of HA acceptance can be attributed to several factors including (i) performance variability in diverse environments, (ii) time-to-convergence for best HA operating configuration, (iii) unrealistic expectations, and (iv) cost/insurance. This study examines a nationwide dataset of pure-tone audiograms and HA fitting configurations. An overview of data characteristics is presented, followed by use of machine learning clustering to suggest ways of obtaining effective starting configurations, thereby reducing time-to-convergence to improve HA retention.
Automatic proficiency judgments: Accentedness, fluency, and comprehensibility
Authors: Park Seongjin , Culnan John
Published: November 2021

The goal of the present study is to investigate whether computational models can approximate human perceptual judgments of accentedness, fluency, and comprehensibility in non-native speech using low-level acoustic features and speech rhythm features. Previous studies have used the results of automatic speech recognition systems, such as word error rate, as features to automatically measure speakers’ accentedness or fluency. However, in the present study, we aim to build automatic perceptual judgment model for lexically constrained speech using only audio vectors (wav2vec), acoustic features, and durational features. The results show that a neural network model could make predictions on speakers’ proficiency using limited features, and that low-level acoustic features can take the place of suprasegmental features when these are not explicitly included in a given feature set. In addition, the results demonstrate that acoustic features are more useful when predicting accentedness of speech, while durational features are more useful when predicting fluency.
Sniffing the human body volatile hexadecanal blocks aggression in men but triggers aggression in women
Authors: Mishor Eva , Amir Daniel , Weiss Tali , Honigstein Danielle , Weissbrod Aharon , Livne Ethan , Gorodisky Lior , Karagach Shiri , Ravia Aharon , Snitz Kobi , Karawani Diyala , Zirler Rotem , Weissgross Reut , Soroka Timna , Endevelt-Shapira Yaara , Agron Shani , Rozenkrantz Liron , Reshef Netta , Furman-Haran Edna , Breer Heinz , Strotmann Joerg , Uebi Tatsuya , Ozaki Mamiko , Sobel Noam
Published: November 2021

Sniffing a molecule emitted from baby heads makes men less aggressive yet women more aggressive.
Pervasive hybridization with local wild relatives in Western European grapevine varieties
Authors: Freitas Sara , Gazda Małgorzata A. , Rebelo Miguel Â. , Muñoz-Pajares Antonio J. , Vila-Viçosa Carlos , Muñoz-Mérida Antonio , Gonçalves Luís M. , Azevedo-Silva David , Afonso Sandra , Castro Isaura , Castro Pedro H. , Sottomayor Mariana , Beja-Pereira Albano , Tereso João , Ferrand Nuno , Gonçalves Elsa , Martins Antero , Carneiro Miguel , Azevedo Herlander
Published: November 2021

Hybridization footprint suggests introgression with local wild relatives in Western European grape varieties.
Big or small, patchy all: Resolution of marine plankton patch structure at micro- to submesoscales for 36 taxa
Authors: Robinson Kelly L. , Sponaugle Su , Luo Jessica Y. , Gleiber Miram R. , Cowen Robert K.
Published: November 2021

Underwater imaging resolves plankton patch structure for 36 taxa in continental and oceanic waters of a western boundary current.
TWEAK functions with TNF and IL-17 on keratinocytes and is a potential target for psoriasis therapy
Authors: Gupta Rinkesh K. , Gracias Donald T. , Figueroa Daniela Salgado , Miki Haruka , Miller Jacqueline , Fung Kai , Ay Ferhat , Burkly Linda , Croft Michael
Published: November 2021

TWEAK synergizes with TNF and IL-17 in keratinocytes to drive psoriasis-like skin inflammation.
The transcription factor EGR2 is indispensable for tissue-specific imprinting of alveolar macrophages in health and tissue repair
Authors: McCowan Jack , Fercoq Frédéric , Kirkwood Phoebe M. , T’Jonck Wouter , Hegarty Lizi M. , Mawer Connar M. , Cunningham Richard , Mirchandani Ananda S. , Hoy Anna , Humphries Duncan C. , Jones Gareth-Rhys , Hansen Carsten G. , Hirani Nik , Jenkins Stephen J. , Henri Sandrine , Malissen Bernard , Walmsley Sarah R. , Dockrell David H. , Saunders Philippa T. K. , Carlin Leo M. , Bain Calum C.
Published: November 2021

EGR2 controls alveolar macrophage function in health and disease.
Invaluable role of histopathology in the diagnosis of cutaneous leiomyosarcoma in insulin injection site reaction
Authors: Lundeberg Kathleen Renee , Vidis Laura J , Martin Jennifer , Randolph-Habecker Julie
Published: November 2021

Soft tissue sarcomas (STSs) are rare and may often be misdiagnosed, resulting in delays in treatment. A 67-year-old cisgender woman with type 2 diabetes mellitus and obesity presented to her primary care physician with a mass on her left proximal arm. The clinical opinion of the attending physician was that of an insulin injection site reaction. After further evaluation from the physician, the patient was diagnosed with a lipoma without confirmatory histology. The patient continued to present with an enlarging mass, decline in health status and continued with local wound care. The patient underwent a confirmatory biopsy following which, the patient was diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma. This case report highlights the case of a person with a low or moderate income with a self-reported low health literacy living in a rural community and how STS may be misdiagnosed in medically underserved. The patient’s primary or oncology care team are not involved in the production or review of this case report.
Prurigo excoriée treated with low dose naltrexone
Authors: Timoney Leonard , Bunker Christopher B
Published: November 2021

A 53-year-old woman presented with a 25-year history of acne excoriée and prurigo excoriée. Her symptoms began in 1988 coinciding with her husband’s death from a brain tumour when she was 27. The pruritus affected her quality of life and disturbed her sleep. She had scarring on her face and body resulting from persistent scratching. The pruritus proved refractory to treatment despite a multi-modal treatment approach including multiple topicals, phototherapy and systemic agents such as isotretinoin, antibiotics, anxiolytic agents and neuromodulators. She was extremely frustrated that various treatments had been ineffective at controlling the itch-scratch cycle. She was commenced on low dose naltrexone (LDN), 3 mg nocte, and she became itch free within a few weeks. She reports that the LDN has had a beneficial impact on her quality of life.
Primary leptomeningeal low-grade Schwann cell neoplasm
Authors: Vallat Wilson , Antony Siby , Patel Sandy , McLean Catriona
Published: November 2021

We discuss an extremely rare case of low-grade Schwann cell leptomeningeal neoplasm with no evident intradural primary, presenting with rapid neurological decline leading to death reflecting the aggressive biological behaviour of this entity despite its low-grade morphology. Notwithstanding extensive investigations, the diagnosis was only established on autopsy as clinical presentation is non-specific making diagnosis challenging. This condition could be considered in patients presenting with leptomeningeal disease if initial workup of more common causes is non-revealing.
Successful use of endobronchial valve for persistent air leak in a patient with COVID-19 and bullous emphysema
Authors: Saha Biplab K , Bonnier Alyssa , Chong Woon Hean , Chenna Praveen
Published: November 2021

Patients with SARS-CoV-2 pneumonia can suffer from pneumothorax and persistent air leak (PAL). The pneumothorax occurs with or without pre-existing lung disease. PAL refers to air leak lasting more than 5–7 days and arises due to bronchopleural or alveolopleural fistula. The management of PAL can be challenging as a standard management guideline is lacking. Here we present the case of a 42-year-old smoker with COVID-19 who presented to the hospital with fever, cough, acute left-sided chest pain and shortness of breath. He suffered from a large left-sided pneumothorax requiring immediate chest tube drainage. Unfortunately, the air leak persisted for 13 days before one-way endobronchial valve (EBV) was used with complete resolution of the air leak. We also review the literature regarding other cases of EBV utilisation for PAL in patients with COVID-19.