bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hepatocellular adenoma: what we know, what we do not know, and why it matters
Authors: Bioulac‐Sage Paulette , Gouw Annette S H , Balabaud Charles , Sempoux Christine
Published: December 2021

In the last two decades there has been significant progress in research on and diagnosis of hepatocellular adenoma (HCA), resulting in the establishment of a molecular and immunohistological HCA classification. This review aims to fine‐tune the current expertise in order to enhance the histopathological diagnostic possibilities, by refining issues that are already known, addressing diagnostic difficulties, and identifying still unknown aspects of HCA. We discuss novel methods to identify HCA subtypes, in particular the sonic hedgehog HCAs and the interpretation of glutamine synthetase patterns for the recognition of β‐catenin‐mutated HCAs. The major complications of HCAs, i.e. bleeding and malignant transformation, are considered, including the dilemmas of atypical and borderline lesions. HCAs in different clinical and geographical settings, e.g. pregnancy, cirrhosis and non‐western countries, are also discussed. The natural history of the different HCA subtypes in relation to age, sex and risk factors is a feature that is still insufficiently investigated. This is also true for the risks of clinical bleeding and malignant transformation in association with HCA subtypes. As HCA is a relatively rare tumour, a multicentre and multidisciplinary approach across geographical boundaries will be the appropriate method to establish prospective programmes with which to identify, classify and manage HCAs, focusing on several aspects, e.g. aetiology, underlying liver disease, complications, regression, and growth. Updating what we know and identifying and addressing what we do not know matters for optimal patient management.
Novel insights into pivotal risk factors for rectal carriage of extended-spectrum-β-lactamase-producing enterobacterales within the general population in Lower Saxony, Germany
Authors: Symanzik Cara , Hillenbrand Jacqueline , Stasielowicz Lukasz , Greie Jörg-Christian , Friedrich Alex W. , Pulz Matthias , John Swen Malte , Esser Jutta
Published: December 2021

Aims

To estimate the prevalence of extended-spectrum-β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing enterobacterales (ESBL-E) carriage in the general population of Lower Saxony, Germany, and to identify risk factors for being colonized.

Methods and Results

Participants were recruited through local press and information events. Detection of ESBL-E by culture was conducted using ESBL-selective chromagar plates containing third-generation cephalosporins. Identification of pathogens was performed using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF)_technology on Vitek mass spectrometry. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was conducted by microdilution (Vitek II) and an ESBL confirmation assay was carried out using a combination disk test. Of 527 randomly collected stool samples from healthy volunteers, 5.5% were tested positive for ESBL-E. Post-stratification for age and gender yielded a similar population estimate (5.9%). People traveling abroad and taking antibiotics had the greatest rectal ESBL-E carriage.

Conclusions

Potential risk factors (eg, working in healthcare facilities, recent inpatient stay) did not attribute to rectal ESBL-E carriage as other factors (eg, travelling, taking antibiotics). Rectal ESBL-E carriage within the general population seems to be high.

Significance and Impact of the Study

The known risk factors for carriage with MDRO might not be fully applicable to ESBL-E and require further examination in order to develop effective strategies for the prevention of ESBL-E dissemination within the general population.
PD‐1 inhibitor therapy of basal cell carcinoma with pulmonary metastasis
Authors: Johansson I. , Levin M. , Akyürek L.M. , Olofsson Bagge R. , Ny L.
Published: December 2021

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) may be challenging to differentiate from basaloid squamous cell carcinoma (bSCC), both clinically and histologically. BCC constitutes one of the most common tumours and metastatic behaviour is extremely rare. In contrast, bSCC is a rare entity with an increased propensity for distant metastasis. If these conditions develop into inoperable metastatic disease, the therapeutic alternatives are different, but the use of PD‐1 inhibitors may be a valid option for both. Here, we report a case with complex histology with a component initially classified as bSCC with lung metastases and treated with the PD‐1 inhibitor cemiplimab resulting in radiological and clinical responses. Re‐examination of the lung biopsy using routine histomorphology in combination with immunohistochemical staining for cytokeratin 14, cytokeratin17 and BerEp4 has, however, revealed a histopathological pattern of BCC, which is in concordance with a similar analysis of the cutaneous primary tumour in the face that the patient underwent surgery for more than 5 years earlier.
Overview of guideline recommendations for the management of high‐risk and advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Dessinioti C. , Stratigos A.J.
Published: December 2021

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer. National and international associations have issued evidence‐ and consensus‐based guidelines to offer clinicians a framework to optimally manage patients with invasive cSCC. Current updated guidelines regarding the recommendations on the management of patients with high‐risk and advanced cSCC include EDF/EADO (European) Guidelines 2020, US National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines 2021, American Academy of Dermatology guidelines 2018, British Association of Dermatology guidelines 2020 and German guidelines 2020. This review presents the guideline recommendations on the definition of high‐risk and advanced cSCC, surgical treatment and safety margins, definitive and adjuvant radiotherapy and systemic treatments. The recommendations across guidelines may converge, diverge or in some cases not be able to provide a recommendation, highlighting open questions to be answered by future studies.
Advanced cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma of the head in two renal transplanted patients treated with cemiplimab
Authors: Orte Cano C. , Van Meerhaeghe T. , Tannous J. , Lienard D. , Van Gestel D. , Cuylits N. , Luce S. , Carlot S. , Le Moine A. , Aspeslagh S. , del Marmol V.
Published: December 2021

It is well known that organ transplant recipients are prone to develop non‐melanoma skin cancers, particularly cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC). This is explained by the long‐term use of immunosuppressants and thus the decrease of the immunosurveillance that protects from developing malignant tumours. Solid organ transplant recipients (SOTRs) are 65–250 times more likely to develop cSCC compared to the general population (Am J Transplant 2017; 17: 2509). Moreover, in these patients cSCCs follow a more aggressive course. Close follow‐up and regular skin check‐ups by a dermatologist are, therefore, crucial in the management of these patients. When detected early, cSCC can be easily and effectively treated by a simple excision. However, when advanced, outcomes are poor. Immune checkpoints inhibitors (ICIs) have been recently added to our arsenal and represent a breakthrough, having proved to be effective in achieving long‐term responses. We, hereby, present two cases of difficult‐to‐treat cSCCs in renal transplanted patients.
Experiences of how brief admission influences daily life functioning among individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and self‐harming behaviour
Authors: Enoksson Maria , Hultsjö Sally , Wärdig Rikard Erik , Strömberg Sandra
Published: December 2021

Aims and objectives

The aim of this study was to explore experiences of how brief admission influences daily life functioning among individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and self‐harming behaviour.

Background

Brief admission (BA) is a crisis nursing intervention designed to reduce long hospitalisations and the risk of suicide. The intention of the intervention is to develop autonomy and to encourage the patient to take responsibility for and control over their own care and treatment. There are studies in the area that target individuals with psychosis and bipolar disorders, but no previous studies have been found examining how BA impacts upon daily life functioning among people with BPD who self‐harm.

Design

A descriptive qualitative design was chosen.

Methods

Data were collected using qualitative individual interviews with 16 patients with BPD and self‐harming behaviour who had been assigned to BA. The data were analysed using conventional content analysis. The study was conducted in accordance with COREQ guidelines.

Results

The results show that BA was perceived as a functioning nursing intervention that promoted self‐determination and self‐care. This contributed to increased security in daily life. BA made it possible for individuals to maintain everyday routines, employment and relationships more easily.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that BA was experienced to have a positive impact on daily life functioning.

Relevance to clinical practice

Brief admission enabled the balance of power to be shifted from the nurse to the patient, and provides conditions for patients to take responsibility for their mental condition and to become aware of early signs of deterioration, in line with the basic ideas of person‐centred care.
Neoclassical stability and Keynesian instability: A two‐sector disequilibrium approach
Authors: Ogawa Shogo
Published: December 2021

In this study, we construct a simple disequilibrium growth model to explore the dynamic property of effective demand. This study’s main concern is the effect of the quantity constraint: How do the quantities of consumption and investment goods demand and the productive capacity affect capital accumulation? To answer this, we build a two‐sector growth model with quantity constraints. Our model has multiple steady states in classical (supply‐led) regime and Keynesian (demand‐led) regime. The former is locally stable, but the latter is unstable. The instability of Keynesian steady state is amplified by the multiplier effect and shows how deep depression occurs.
Evolutionary flexibility in routes to mat formation by Pseudomonas
Authors: Mukherjee Anuradha , Dechow‐Seligmann Gunda , Gallie Jenna
Published: December 2021

Many bacteria form mats at the air‐liquid interface of static microcosms. These structures typically involve the secretion of exopolysaccharides, the production of which is often controlled by the secondary messenger c‐di‐GMP. Mechanisms of mat formation have been particularly well characterized in Pseudomonas fluorescens SBW25; stimuli or mutations that increase c‐di‐GMP production by diguanylate cyclases (WspR, AwsR, and MwsR) result in the secretion of cellulose and mat formation. Here, we characterize and compare mat formation in two close relatives of SBW25: Pseudomonas simiae PICF7 and P. fluorescens A506. We find that PICF7—the strain more closely related to SBW25—can form mats through mutations affecting the activity of the same three diguanylate cyclases as SBW25. However, instead of cellulose, these mutations activate production of the exopolysaccharide Pel. We also provide evidence for at least two further—as yet uncharacterized—routes to mat formation by PICF7. P. fluorescens A506, while retaining the same mutational routes to mat formation as SBW25 and PICF7, preferentially forms mats by a semi‐heritable mechanism that culminates in Psl and Pga over‐production. Our results demonstrate a high level of evolutionary flexibility in the molecular and structural routes to mat formation, even among close relatives.
Critically ill patients with severe infections related toGeotrichumspecies: A French retrospective multicentre study
Authors: Valade Sandrine , Picard Muriel , Mokart Djamel , Calvet Laure , Bruneel Fabrice , de Montmollin Etienne , Aissaoui Nadia , Champigneulle Benoit , Bigé Naike , Boissier Florence , Pène Frédéric , Mayaux Julien , Argaud Laurent , Moreau Anne Sophie , Murgier Martin , Azoulay Elie , Darmon Michael
Published: December 2021

Objectives

Geotrichumspp can be responsible for severe infections in immunocompromised patients. We aim to describeGeotrichum‐related infections in the ICU and to assess risk factors of mortality.

Methods

Retrospective multicentre study, conducted in 14 French ICUs between 2002 and 2018, including critically ill adult patients with proven or probable infection related toGeotrichumspecies. Data were obtained from the medical charts.

Results

Thirty‐six patients, median age 60 years IQR [53; 66] were included. Most of the patients had haematological malignancies (78%). The reason for ICU admission was shock in half of the patients (n = 19, 53%) and respiratory failure in thirteen patients (36%). Median SOFA score was 8.5 IQR [7; 15]. Time between ICU admission and fungal diagnosis was 2.5 days [−1; 4]. Infection was disseminated in 27 (75%) patients with positive blood cultures in 25 patients (69%). Thirty patients (83%) received curative antifungal treatment in the ICU, in a median time of 1 day [0;1] after ICU admission. Twenty‐four patients (67%) died in the ICU and hospital mortality rate was 69%. The number and extent of organ failures, as represented by SOFA score, were associated with mortality.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates poor outcome in critically ill patients withGeotrichum‐related infections, which encourages a high level of suspicion.
The role of mood state and emotion regulation in the discrepancy between gastrointestinal symptom burden recorded prospectively and via recall questionnaire
Authors: Jones Michael P. , Yun Grace , Wass Fiona , Rixon Hayley , Shah Ayesha , Walker Marjorie M. , Koloski Natasha A. , Holtmann Gerald , Talley Nicholas J. , Beath Alissa P.
Published: December 2021

Background

There is limited empirical evidence of the magnitude of the discrepancy between prospectively recorded gastrointestinal symptom burden and that reported in recall questionnaires. Further, potential sources of the discrepancy are largely unknown. This study sought to quantify the discrepancy and to evaluate the potential role of mood disorder and emotion regulation in the discrepancy.

Methods

One hundred and forty nine subjects (mean age 20 years, 75% female) who met Rome IV criteria for irritable bowel syndrome and/or functional dyspepsia completed a 7‐day prospective recording of the symptoms on a smartphone implemented ecological momentary assessment app, and then on day 8 were asked to recall their symptoms for the preceding 7 days.

Key Results

Gastrointestinal symptom burden assessed by recall was exaggerated relative to that recorded prospectively. The discrepancy was moderate for overall score (Cohen d = 0.52), abdominal pain (d = 0.61) and indigestion (d = 0.49). The discrepancy was generally larger among subjects who reported a physician diagnosis of a gastrointestinal condition with d = 0.87 for overall score and d = 0.89 for abdominal pain. A number of correlations between the discrepancy and psychological traits were identified, including neuroticism with diarrhea discrepancy (r = 0.23, p = 0.004) and visceral‐specific anxiety with abdominal pain discrepancy (r = −0.18, p = 0.03). There was no evidence of recency or Hawthorne (observer) effects.

Conclusions and Inferences

Reports of gastrointestinal symptoms obtained via recall are likely to be exaggerated relative to the actual patient experience, particularly among healthcare seekers. While psychological traits are likely to play some role, much more needs to be understood about the discrepancy.
Provenancing kauri: Reconstructing the supply of kauri timber into Auckland city, 1850–1889
Authors: Boswijk Gretel , Fowler Anthony
Published: December 2021

The 4500‐year kauri (Agathis australis) chronology includes ring width data from subfossil remains, 19th‐century building timbers and live kauri trees. It was assumed that the building timber data set represented a similar geographic spread to modern kauri sites but that assumption has not been tested empirically by provenancing kauri timber to the source region. To support provenancing, timber import patterns into Auckland between 1850 and 1889 CE were reconstructed, demonstrating that the archaeological assemblage is likely biased to west and east Auckland and the Coromandel Peninsula, particularly the east side. Improved understanding of kauri timber provenance informs future use of the data set for climate and environmental studies.
Pandemic Shocks and Household Spending*
Authors: Finck David , Tillmann Peter
Published: December 2021

We study the response of daily household spending to the surprise number of fatalities of the COVID‐19 pandemic, which we label as a pandemic shock. Based on daily forecasts of the number of fatalities, we construct the surprise component as the difference between the actual and the expected number of deaths. We allow for state‐dependent effects of the shock depending on the position on the curve of infections. Spending falls after the shock and is particularly sensitive to the shock when the number of new infections is strongly increasing. If the number of infections grows moderately, the drop in spending is smaller. We also estimate the effect of the shock across income quartiles. In each state, low‐income households exhibit a significantly larger drop in consumption than high‐income households. Thus, consumption inequality increases after a pandemic shock. Our results hold for the US economy and the key US states. The findings remain unchanged if we choose alternative state‐variables to separate regimes.
Significance of root hairs in developing stress‐resilient plants for sustainable crop production
Authors: Kohli Pawandeep S. , Maurya Kanika , Thakur Jitendra K. , Bhosale Rahul , Giri Jitender
Published: December 2021

Root hairs represent a beneficial agronomic trait to potentially reduce fertilizer and irrigation inputs. Over the past decades, research in the plant model Arabidopsis thaliana has provided insights into root hair development, the underlying genetic framework and the integration of environmental cues within this framework. Recent years have seen a paradigm shift, where studies are now highlighting conservation and diversification of root hair developmental programs in other plant species and the agronomic relevance of root hairs in a wider ecological context. In this review, we specifically discuss the molecular evolution of the RSL (RHD Six‐Like) pathway that controls root hair development and growth in land plants. We also discuss how root hairs contribute to plant performance as an active physiological rooting structure by performing resource acquisition, providing anchorage and constructing the rhizosphere with desirable physical, chemical and biological properties. Finally, we outline future research directions that can help achieve the potential of root hairs in developing sustainable agroecosystems.
Nucleus and chloroplast: A necessary understanding to overcome heat stress in Pinus radiata
Authors: Lamelas Laura , Valledor Luis , López‐Hidalgo Cristina , Cañal María Jesús , Meijón Mónica
Published: December 2021

The recovery and maintenance of plant homeostasis under stressful environments are complex processes involving organelle crosstalk for a coordinated cellular response. Here, we revealed through nuclear and chloroplast subcellular proteomics, biochemical cell profiles and targeted transcriptomics how chloroplasts and nuclei developed their responses under increased temperatures in a long‐lived species (Pinus radiata). Parallel to photosynthetic impairment and reactive oxygen species production in the chloroplast, a DNA damage response was triggered in the nucleus followed by an altered chromatin conformation. In addition, in the nuclei, we found several proteins, such as HEMERA or WHIRLY, which change their locations from the chloroplasts to the nuclei carrying the stress message. Additionally, our data showed a deep rearrangement of RNA metabolism in both organelles, revealing microRNAs and AGO1 as potential regulators of the acclimation mechanisms. Altogether, our study highlights the synchronisation among the different stages required for thermotolerance acquisition in P. radiata, pointing out the role of chromatin conformation and posttranscriptional gene regulation in overcoming heat stress and assuring plant survival for the following years.
Aberrant levels of DNA methylation and H3K9 acetylation in the testicular cells of crossbred cattle–yak showing infertility
Authors: Phakdeedindan Praopilas , Wittayarat Manita , Tharasanit Theerawat , Techakumphu Mongkol , Shimazaki Megumi , Sambuu Rentsenkhand , Hirata Maki , Tanihara Fuminori , Taniguchi Masayasu , Otoi Takeshige , Sato Yoko
Published: December 2021

Although the interspecies hybridization of bovids, such as cattle–yak (Bos taurus × Bos grunniens), has heterosis benefits, the infertility of hybrid males affects the maintenance of dominant traits in subsequent generations. To achieve reproductive capacity, male germ cell development requires coordinated changes in gene expression, including DNA methylation and generalized histone modifications. Although gene expression‐related mechanisms underlying hybrid male sterility have been investigated recently, information on the cell types and stage‐specific controls remains limited. Here, we used immunohistochemistry and image analyses to evaluate the 5‐methylcytosine (5MC) and acetyl‐histone H3 Lys9 (AcK9) expression in all spermatogonia and testicular somatic cell types to determine their roles in cattle–yak spermatogenesis. Testicular tissues from yak (1–3 years old) and backcrossed hybrids (2 years old) were used. In yak, the AcK9 expression levels increased in all cell types during maturation, but the 5MC expression levels did not change until reaching 3 years when they increased in all testicular cell types, except spermatogonia. Cattle–yak hybrids showed higher 5MC expression levels and different AcK9 expression levels in all cell types compared to the same‐aged yak. These results suggested that both gene modulation by AcK9 and constant levels of DNA methylation are required for spermatogenesis during maturation in yak. Therefore, inappropriate expression levels of both AcK9 and DNA methylation might be the major factors for disruption of normal germ cell development in cattle–yak. Additionally, various modulations occurred depending on the cell type. Further experiments are needed to identify the stage‐specific gene expression modulations in each cell type in yak and cattle–yak to potentially solve the infertility issue in crossbreeding.
Case C‐24/19 (A and others): How to ensure effet utile of the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive?
Authors: Porzeżyńska Magdalena
Published: December 2021

On 25 June 2020, the Court of Justice of the European Union (EU) gave its judgement in the case A and others, which is of significant importance for carrying out Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs). This case presented the Court with an opportunity to reconsider its approach to the interpretation of the notion of ‘plans and programmes’, which are subject to an SEA obligation under EU law. Moreover, in the judgement, the Court explains whether and to what extent national courts may maintain national plans and programmes adopted in breach of the obligation to carry out an SEA. This case note considers how the Court reached its position and evaluates the arguments supporting its view and formulates findings resulting from this analysis. Especially, the contribution concludes with reflections on whether and how the Court reconciled the principles of effectiveness and primacy of EU law on the one hand and the need to protect the environment on the other.
Precise Yet Uncertain: Broadening Understandings of Uncertainty and Policy in the BPA Controversy
Authors: Lemus Dafne , Kovacic Zora
Published: December 2021

Bisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most studied and most controversial chemicals used by the food packaging industry, because of its endocrine disruptive properties. Part of the controversy is due to the uncertainty that surrounds the effects of BPA on the endocrine system. Uncertainty includes data gaps, methodological hurdles, incompatibilities between toxicology and endocrinology‐based approaches, and so on. In this article, we analyze how uncertainty has been conceptualized and treated. We focus on the European Food Safety Authority assessments of BPA, and study how exposure and hazard assessments have evolved over time, how uncertainty has been analyzed, and how the agency responded to controversies. Results show that in the attempt to reduce knowledge gaps, assessments have become progressively larger, including more references, evidence, and effects. There is a tendency toward greater precisions and specification of results, and toward protocolization of all processes included in the assessment (from literature review, to uncertainty assessments, and public consultation). Yet, the uncertainty has not diminished following the increase in evidence. We argue that the strategy used to reduce uncertainty within risk assessment, namely including more variables, studies, data, and methods, amplifies the uncertainty linked to indeterminacy (as more results increase the fragmentation of the knowledge base due to the open‐ended nature of complex issues) and ambiguity (as complexity gives way to multiple nonequivalent interpretations of results). For this reason, it is important to consider different types of uncertainty and how these uncertainties interact with each other.
Spatial Modeling of Maritime Risk Using Machine Learning
Authors: Rawson Andrew , Brito Mario , Sabeur Zoheir
Published: December 2021

Managing navigational safety is a key responsibility of coastal states. Predicting and measuring these risks has a high complexity due to their infrequent occurrence, multitude of causes, and large study areas. As a result, maritime risk models are generally limited in scale to small regions, generalized across diverse environments, or rely on the use of expert judgement. Therefore, such an approach has limited scalability and may incorrectly characterize the risk. Within this article a novel method for undertaking spatial modeling of maritime risk is proposed through machine learning. This enables navigational safety to be characterized while leveraging the significant volumes of relevant data available. The method comprises two key components: aggregation of historical accident data, vessel traffic, and other exploratory features into a spatial grid; and the implementation of several classification algorithms that predicts annual accident occurrence for various vessel types. This approach is applied to characterize the risk of collisions and groundings in the United Kingdom. The results vary between hazard types and vessel types but show remarkable capability at characterizing maritime risk, with accuracies and area under curve scores in excess of 90% in most implementations. Furthermore, the ensemble tree‐based algorithms of XGBoost and Random Forest consistently outperformed other machine learning algorithms that were tested. The resultant potential risk maps provide decisionmakers with actionable intelligence in order to target risk mitigation measures in regions with the greatest requirement.
Delegating pollution permits*
Authors: Kundu Tapas , Nilssen Tore
Published: December 2021

We discuss the decision to delegate the regulation of pollution through sales of permits to a biased expert in a situation where the polluting firm has private information about its technology. We consider, in particular, constrained delegation where the government puts restrictions on the amount of pollution that the expert can sell permits for. We find that, in general, delegation is more likely if the firm is low‐cost. This is not in line with the so‐called uncertainty principle, which states that there is more delegation the more uncertainty the government faces.
Establishment of an RI for the urine ammonia‐to‐creatinine ratio in dogs
Authors: Adrianowycz Sarah E. , Castro Rebeca A. , Specht Andrew J. , Harris Autumn N.
Published: December 2021

Background

Ammonia is produced and excreted by the kidney, contributing to systemic acid‐base homeostasis through the production of bicarbonate. Disorders of acid‐base balance can lead to many clinical problems and measuring ammonia excretion helps in determining if the kidneys are responding to acid‐base challenges appropriately. Reference intervals are integral to clinical decision‐making, and there is no current RI for the urine ammonia‐to‐creatinine ratio (UACR) in dogs.

Objective

This study aimed to generate an RI for the UACR in healthy adult dogs.

Methods

The study used adult, client‐owned dogs that were presented to the University of Florida Primary Care and Dentistry service (n = 60). Physical examinations were performed and serum chemistry and urinalysis samples were obtained. Urine ammonia and creatinine concentrations were determined. Dogs were excluded if there were significant abnormalities in either their urinalysis or serum chemistry results. The RI for the UACR was calculated according to the recommendation of the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology. Data were evaluated for correlation with serum bicarbonate, weight, age, and sex.

Results

The RIs for the UACR were 0.16‐23.69 with 90% confidence intervals for the lower and upper limits of (0.13‐1.17) and (20.50‐23.75), respectively. No significant impact of age, sex, or weight was found. There was no discernable relationship between serum bicarbonate and UACR.

Conclusions

Establishing an RI for UACR in healthy adult dogs will allow for further studies to determine if alterations are observed during specific disease states.
Fault Management Architecture Based on a Digital Twin Approach
Authors: Vesely Ladislav , Fernandez Erik , Kapat Jayanta , Ghouse Jaffer H. , Bhattacharyya Debangsu , Ruscher Christopher J. , Rolling A. J.
Published: December 2021

Fault management of systems is a key component in mission/operation success of each system or technology. Fault management can be implemented into various different applications, power generation, industrial processing, aviation and transportation, and electrical grids with combinations of renewable energy sources. As the complexity of the overall system design increases, reliance on just pure physics-based or pure data-based modeling is shown to be deficient in the accuracy of fault management. This work shows the potential of a combination of digital twin and a fault management algorithm. The algorithm is designed to be robust, accurate, reliable, and fast; it is based on both physics and data-based model modeling. The algorithm compares physical and data-based approaches to provide the most reliable fault management solution, through a digital twin. The fault management algorithm is designed to use physics-based model validated on real/synthetic data (data-based model).
An Experimental Study on Efficient Demulsification for Produced Emulsion in Alkaline/Surfactant/Polymer Flooding
Authors: Song Yang , Xu Yunfei , Wang Zhihua
Published: December 2021

Tertiary oil recovery technologies, for example, alkaline/surfactant/polymer (ASP) flooding, can enhance oil recovery as an important oil displacement technology noteworthy in the present oilfields. However, it is the fact that the produced emulsion droplets have strong electronegativity, which will lead to the destabilization of electric field and affect the dehydration effect in the process of electric dehydration. This article innovatively proposed an efficient demulsification scheme, which uses polyaluminum chloride (PAC) as a chemical regulator to control electric field destabilization through the charge neutralization mechanism and then introduces demulsifier to promote oil–water separation. Furthermore, the dehydration temperature, power supply mode, and electric field parameters are optimized so as to achieve superior dehydration effect of ASP flooding produced liquid. The results indicate that PAC as a chemical regulator by exerting charge neutralization and electrostatic adsorption mechanism could reduce the electronegativity of the emulsified system, decrease the peak current of dehydration, shorten the duration of peak current of dehydration, improve the response performance of the electric field, and increase dehydration rate in the ASP flooding dehydration process. When the demulsifier dosage is 100–120 mg/l, using the composite separation process with the dehydration temperature of 45–50 °C for the thermochemical separation stage and 60 °C in the electrochemical dehydration stage and AC–DC composite electric field or pulse electric field can achieve better dehydration effect. The investigations in this study will provide support and basis for the efficient treatment of ASP flooding produced emulsion.
Detecting pulmonary nodules by using ultrasound multiple scattering
Authors: Roshankhah Roshan , Blackwell John , Ali Mir H. , Masuodi Behrooz , Egan Thomas , Muller Marie
Published: December 2021

Although X-Ray Computed Tomography (CT) is widely used for detecting pulmonary nodules inside the parenchyma, it cannot be used during video-assisted surgical procedures. Real-time, non-ionizing, ultrasound-based techniques are an attractive alternative for nodule localization to ensure safe resection margins during surgery. Conventional ultrasound B-mode imaging of the lung is challenging due to multiple scattering. However, the multiple scattering contribution can be exploited to detect regions inside the lung containing no scatterers. Pulmonary nodules are homogeneous regions in contrast to the highly scattering parenchyma containing millions of air-filled alveoli. We developed a method relying on mapping the multiple scattering contribution inside the highly scattering lung to detect and localize pulmonary nodules. Impulse response matrices were acquired in ex-vivo pig and dog lungs using a linear array transducer to semi-locally investigate the backscattered field. Extracting the multiple-scattering contribution using singular-value decomposition and combining it with a depression detection algorithm allowed us to detect and localize regions with less multiple scattering, associated with the nodules. The feasibility of this method was demonstrated in five ex-vivo lungs containing a total of 20 artificial nodules. Ninety-five percent of the nodules were detected. Nodule depth and diameter significantly correlated with their ex-vivo CT-estimated counterparts (R = 0.960, 0.563, respectively).
Dynamic light scattering studies on ethylene-propylene copolymers in a hydrocarbon based oil
Authors: Baker Joseph H. , Zhang Jingwen , Zhao Mingzhen , Mullins Michael , Sue Hung-Jue
Published: December 2021

Viscosity modifiers are inherent to many lubricating multigrade oils as they reduce the temperature dependence on the viscosity of the oil, thus increasing the viscosity index. However, direct evidence of physical mechanisms to which viscosity modifiers increase viscosity index is still lacking due to the lack of appropriate analysis tools. Here, we report a method using dynamic light scattering (DLS) to study the solution behavior and coil size change of ethylene-propylene copolymers as well as polyoctadecylmethacrylate at 1.0 wt. % in a polyalphaolefin oil. The usefulness and limitations of the DLS for monitoring polymer coil size and dynamic solution behavior in oil are discussed.
Thixotropy, nonmonotonic stress relaxation, and the second law of thermodynamics
Authors: Joshi Yogesh M.
Published: December 2021

Many thixoviscoelastic materials have been reported to undergo enhancement in elastic modulus with time and decrease in the same under application of deformation field. Incorporation of this feature in a viscoelastic structural kinetic model has an apparent possibility of violating the second law of thermodynamics. Furthermore, in a related experimental observation, stress has been reported to undergo a nonmonotonic change as a function of time under the application of constant strain. We analyze both these scenarios through a structural kinetic model that shows viscoelastic aging but undergoes rejuvenation only due to the viscous rate of strain. We observe that such formalism does not violate the second law. Interestingly, the proposed simple formalism predicts the experimental observation of the nonmonotonic stress relaxation very well.
Acute Blood Pressure Response to High- and Moderate-Speed Resistance Exercise in Older Adults With Hypertension
Authors: Machado Carlos Leonardo Figueiredo , Radaelli Régis , Brusco Clarissa Muller , Cadore Eduardo Lusa , Wilhelm Eurico N. , Pinto Ronei Silveira
Published: December 2021

An increase in blood pressure (BP) occurs during resistance exercise; attention to this response may be necessary in older individuals with hypertension. We compared the BP responses following high- (HSRE) and moderate-speed resistance exercise (MSRE) (4 × 8 repetitions at 60% one-repetition maximum) and control protocol in 15 older adults with hypertension. HSRE and MSRE increased systolic BP (SBP) by the end of each set compared with preexercise and control protocol. Immediately after the fourth set, a higher SBP was observed in MSRE than HSRE (147 ± 14 vs. 141 ± 12 mmHg; p = .01). Taking an exploratory analysis of the individual response, we observed that MSRE resulted in greater mean changes and number of SBP exposures to values ≥150 mmHg (22-fold) than HSRE (10-fold). Diastolic BP increased (p < .05) with exercise, but only MSRE increased compared with the control condition (p < .05). HSRE may be an alternative for individuals in which SBP peak should be avoided.
Shoulder Strength and Upper Body Field Performance Tests in Young Female Handball and Volleyball Athletes: Are There Differences Between Sports?
Authors: Saccol Michele Forgiarini , Zanca Gisele Garcia , Machado Rafaela Oliveira , Teixeira Lilian Pinto , Löbell Rose , Cools Ann , Mota Carlos Bolli
Published: December 2021

Context: Volleyball and handball players have usually been studied collectively as “overhead athletes,” since throwing present similarities in the proximal to distal movement sequencing and upper limb joints ranges of motion. However, each sport presents specificities in the objectives when accelerating the ball and a variety of possible throwing techniques. Therefore, it is expected there may be differences in the shoulder and upper body physical performance between sports. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine if there are differences in shoulder muscle strength and upper body field performance tests between volleyball and handball athletes. Design: Cross-sectional. Methods: Ninety-nine volleyball and handball female athletes aged between 13 and 20 years were evaluated for isometric shoulder abductor and rotator strength (handheld dynamometer) and upper body field performance tests: Y Balance Test—Upper Quarter, modified Closed Kinetic Chain Upper-Extremity Stability Test, and unilateral and bilateral Seated Medicine Ball Throw. Results: Handball athletes presented greater shoulder internal rotation strength (between-group difference: 2.84; effect size 0.70), higher medial (between-group difference: 9.54; effect size 0.90), superolateral (between-group differences: 8.9; effect size 0.68), and composite scores (between-group difference 5.7; effect size 0.75) of the Y Balance Test—Upper Quarter and higher unilateral (between-group difference: 41.92; effect size 0.91) and bilateral (between-group difference: 46.11; effect size 0.83) Seated Medicine Ball Throw performance. Groups were not different for Closed Kinetic Chain Upper-Extremity Stability Test, external rotation, and abduction isometric strength. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that young female handball athletes present greater internal rotator strength and better performance in Y Balance Test—Upper Quarter and Seated Medicine Ball Throw compared to volleyball players. These differences may be related to the different demands required in the throwing movements performed in each sport and should be considered when assessing these populations.
Impact of a Training Program on Preservice Teachers’ Ability to Negotiate With Elementary Students While Teaching Skill Themes
Authors: Wahl-Alexander Zachary , Curtner-Smith Matthew
Published: December 2021

Purpose: To determine the impact of a training program on the ability of preservice teachers (PTs) to negotiate with their students while teaching through the skill themes approach during an early field experience. Method: Participants were 11 PTs who were given specific training on how to negotiate with their students. Data on their ability to negotiate were collected during the early field experience with six qualitative techniques (journaling, document analysis, participant observation, and formal, informal, and stimulated recall interviews) and were analyzed using standard interpretive techniques. Findings: The training program was effective. Patterns of negotiation observed for both PTs and students improved as the PTs’ skill themes units progressed. The volume of positive negotiations increased and the volume of negative negotiations decreased. Key training program components were lecture/discussions, film, journaling, and role playing. Conclusions: Training PTs to negotiate can help them improve their teaching through the skill themes approach. Ability to negotiate may distinguish between effective and ineffective PTs who otherwise have similar pedagogical skills.
GJ 367b: A dense, ultrashort-period sub-Earth planet transiting a nearby red dwarf star
Authors: Lam Kristine W. F. , Csizmadia Szilárd , Astudillo-Defru Nicola , Bonfils Xavier , Gandolfi Davide , Padovan Sebastiano , Esposito Massimiliano , Hellier Coel , Hirano Teruyuki , Livingston John , Murgas Felipe , Smith Alexis M. S. , Collins Karen A. , Mathur Savita , Garcia Rafael A. , Howell Steve B. , Santos Nuno C. , Dai Fei , Ricker George R. , Vanderspek Roland , Latham David W. , Seager Sara , Winn Joshua N. , Jenkins Jon M. , Albrecht Simon , Almenara Jose M. , Artigau Etienne , Barragán Oscar , Bouchy François , Cabrera Juan , Charbonneau David , Chaturvedi Priyanka , Chaushev Alexander , Christiansen Jessie L. , Cochran William D. , De Meideiros José R. , Delfosse Xavier , Díaz Rodrigo F. , Doyon René , Eigmüller Philipp , Figueira Pedro , Forveille Thierry , Fridlund Malcolm , Gaisné Guillaume , Goffo Elisa , Georgieva Iskra , Grziwa Sascha , Guenther Eike , Hatzes Artie P. , Johnson Marshall C. , Kabáth Petr , Knudstrup Emil , Korth Judith , Lewin Pablo , Lissauer Jack J. , Lovis Christophe , Luque Rafael , Melo Claudio , Morgan Edward H. , Morris Robert , Mayor Michel , Narita Norio , Osborne Hannah L. M. , Palle Enric , Pepe Francesco , Persson Carina M. , Quinn Samuel N. , Rauer Heike , Redfield Seth , Schlieder Joshua E. , Ségransan Damien , Serrano Luisa M. , Smith Jeffrey C. , Šubjak Ján , Twicken Joseph D. , Udry Stéphane , Van Eylen Vincent , Vezie Michael
Published: December 2021

A nearby iron-rich sub-Earth planet

The mass and radius of an exoplanet determine its mean density, which provides information about the possible interior structure. Lamet al. have identified a planet on a 7.7-hour orbit around a nearby red dwarf star. The authors determined the planet’s radius from the transit, then used radial velocity observations to measure the mass. They found a sub-Earth–sized planet with a density almost equivalent to pure iron. Its high surface temperature is close to the vaporization point of iron, suggesting that it is the iron core of a planet that has lost its outer mantle. —KTS
Hubble’s successor, at last
Authors: Stofan Ellen
Published: December 2021

Government investment in big, innovative science changes the world—it has allowed us to witness the collision of black holes, create a Global Positioning System that we can carry in our pockets, and unlock the human genome. Government investments in big research and infrastructure yield ever bigger breakthroughs. The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), scheduled for liftoff on 22 December, represents a major international commitment. It will more than return its cost in extraordinary discoveries, new technologies, and inspiration to fuel a more diverse science and technology workforce. In short, like most big science infrastructure projects, it’s a capital investment in a smarter and brighter future.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Virulent Klebsiella pneumoniae Phage Geezett Infecting Multidrug-Resistant Clinical Strains
Authors: Loh Belinda , Zhang Liwei , Hua Xiaoting , Yu Yunsong , Ma Long , Wang Xiaoqing , Manohar Prasanth , Nachimuthu Ramesh , Martins Willames M.B.S. , Toleman Mark A. , Leptihn Sebastian
Published: December 2021

Geezett was isolated from hospital sewage in Hangzhou, China, and exhibits lytic activity against clinical isolates of the nosocomial pathogen
Klebsiella pneumoniae
. The bacteriophage is a myovirus and has a double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) genome 50,707 bp long, containing 79 open reading frames (ORFs).
Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas sp. Strain LAP_36, A Rhizosphere Bacterium Isolated from King George Island, Antarctica
Authors: Silveira Sarah Mederos da , Silva Sheila da , Macrae Andrew , Ramos Rommel T. J. , Araújo Fabrício A. , Schultz Júnia , Góes-Neto Aristóteles , Costa Mateus Matiuzzi da , Soares Siomar de Castro , Azevedo Vasco A. C. , Aburjaile Flávia F. , Brenig Bertram , Rosado Alexandre S. , Oliveira Selma Soares de
Published: December 2021

Pseudomonas
sp. strain LAP_36 was isolated from rhizosphere soil from
Deschampsia antarctica
on King George Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica. Here, we report on its draft genome sequence, which consists of 8,794,771 bp with 60.0% GC content and 8,011 protein-coding genes.
Genome Sequencing of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta (B.1.617.2) Variant of Concern Detected in Bangladesh
Authors: Banu Tanjina Akhtar , Sarkar M. Murshed Hasan , Akter Shahina , Goswami Barna , Jahan Iffat , Osman Eshrar , Uzzaman Mohammad Samir , Habib M. Ahashan , Mahmud Abu Sayeed Mohammad , Uddin Mohammad Mohi , Nafisa Tasnim , Molla M. Maruf Ahmed , Yeasmin Mahmuda , Akram Arifa , Khan M. Salim
Published: December 2021

We report the near-complete genome sequence and phylogenetic analysis of a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Delta variant (B.1.617.2) strain. This variant is associated with increased transmission and immune evasion.
Draft Whole-Genome Sequence of
Sphingobium
sp. Strain PNB, a Versatile Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon-Degrading Bacterium
Authors: Roy Madhumita , Dutta Tapan K.
Published: December 2021

Sphingobium
sp. strain PNB can completely degrade phenanthrene, naphthalene, and biphenyl as the sole carbon and energy source. The strain is also capable of cometabolizing benzo[a]pyrene, pyrene, acenaphthene, fluoranthene, etc. Here, we report the 5.69-Mb assembly and annotation of the genome sequence of strain PNB, obtained using Illumina sequencing.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Thin-Sheath Mutant of the Phototropic Cyanobacterium
Calothrix
sp. Strain PCC 7716
Authors: Hirose Yuu , Katayama Mitsunori
Published: December 2021

Calothrix
sp. strain PCC 7716 is a filamentous cyanobacterium whose morphology is tapered, with basal-apical polarity. The apical filament shows positive phototropism toward white light or blue light. To elucidate the molecular basis of the phototropism, we determined the complete genome sequence of a spontaneous mutant of this strain that has a thin sheath and is suitable for genomic DNA extraction.
Complete Genome Sequence of Arachnia rubra Strain DSM 100122
T
, a Cultured Member of the Human Oral Microbiome
Authors: Ouellette Matthew , Bejian Andrew A. , Chen Tsute , Jones Dakota S. , Johnston Christopher D. , Dewhirst Floyd E.
Published: December 2021

We report the complete genome of
Arachnia rubra
strain DSM 100122
T
. The genome is 3.32 Mb, with a GC content of 64.2%. The genome contains 3,005 predicted genes, including 2,923 predicted protein-coding genes.