bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solar PV Application in Industrial Conveyor System
Authors: Prithvi Raj Pedapati , Pochont Nitin R , Ravi Teja K. M. V. , Deepak Kumar G.
Published: October 2020

This research focuses on converting a conventional electromechanical motor into a solar powered electromechanical motor for the application in material handling systems in industries. As conveyors are the prime movers for in handling raw materials from mines covering a major area, an effort has been made in incorporating this advantage of open entity to solar energy application. With research considered, the upper cover of the conveyer system has been replaced by implementing standalone solar panels with suitable capacity which can assist and propel the conveyor motor. The results portray a positive output in terms of energy efficiency and cost analysis.
Structural model of the shadow market of addictive products in urban and rural settlements of Russian Federation
Authors: Yu Skokov R , Ivanova N V , Korobeynikov D A , Panov A A , Tokarev K E
Published: October 2020

The problem of shady activity in the markets of addictive goods is in the focus of public attention and authorities, especially in rural areas, where the most used are home-made alcohol and counterfeit alcoholic and alcohol-containing products, the abuse of which causes significant damage to the social and economic development of territories. The specifics of the content and structure of shadow activity in the markets of addictive goods are determined. It is established that the shadow sector is initiated from the supply and demand side, for the assessment of which a methodology has been developed and implemented that includes groups of indicators of unrecorded, informal, hidden economic activity of supply entities and hidden demand for “dual-use” goods. It is shown that the digitization of state regulation of the alcohol market did not reduce the shadow sector, but led to a change in its structure. To reduce consumption of goods “dual use” is recommended to control the movement of raw materials for the production of alcohol-containing liquids, turn to potentially addictive goods components, precluding their use for destructive purpose, pharmacies alcohol-containing medications in prescription and limit vacation “in one hand”, enter the time limit sales, to introduce excise duties on alcohol-containing products of medical appointment at the level of the vodka excise taxes. International and domestic standards for measuring the informal economy need to expand the scope of economic transactions related to the consumption of goods for other purposes.
Wheeled tractors in the agricultural machine-tractor aggregates work efficiency opportunities
Authors: Nekhoroshev D D , Nekhoroshev D A , Konovalov P V , Yu Popov A
Published: October 2020

Improving the machine-tractor aggregate stability and performance is to create conditions for smooth regulation of the translational speed and the formation of traction resistance, depending on the kinematic parameters of the engine-transmission installation. Performing this task requires a phased solution. The first stage in the implementation of this task is to form a transition process from a stepwise change in translational speed to stepless one, which will provide the opportunity to coordinate the kinematic parameters of the agricultural implement working body and the tractor translational speed to create optimal operating conditions for the machine-tractor aggregate. This will protect the transmission from vibrations arising in the engine and transmission design, which will be significantly reduced due to special devices with elastic - damping properties, which will stabilize the loading conditions and dynamic loading of the machine-tractor aggregate transmission. The presence of elastic devices various types located in the structure of the transmission, mounted or trailed devices that generate traction on the tractor hook, reduce dynamic loads in all the transmission nodes. The ability to most effectively reduce dynamic loads provides an elastic pneumohydraulic element, which has the ability to control the optimal parameters in a wide range of elastic properties.
Effect of material positioning on fatigue life of the friction stir processed dissimilar joints
Authors: Msomi Velaphi , Mabuwa Sipokazi
Published: October 2020

The investigation on the fatigue behavior of the friction stir processed (FSPed) dissimilar joint is reported in this work. The main focus was to analyze the influence of material positioning on the fatigue life of the joint. The 1pass friction stir processing technique was applied on the friction stir welded AA8011/AA6082 and AA6082/AA8011 dissimilar joints (AA8011/AA6082 means AA8011 on the advancing side, AA6082/AA8011 means AA6082 on the advancing side). The friction stir processing was conducted under normal conditions (room temperature). The samples were prepared for different analyses using waterjet cutter technology. The tests conducted include tensile, microstructural analysis, microhardness, fatigue, and fracture surface morphology. The microstructural analysis revealed a correlation between material positioning and grain sizes. There was a notable decrease in grain size when AA6082 was positioned on the advancing side during processing. The tensile properties of the FSPed AA6082/AA8011 joint were found to be higher compared to the AA8011/AA6082 joint. The AA6082/AA8011 joint was found to be more ductile compared to the AA8011/AA6082 joint. The stir zone microhardness values for the AA8011/AA6082 and AA6082/AA8011 joints were found to be approximately 68HV and 73HV, respectively. The fatigue strength of AA6082/AA8011 was found to be higher compared to that of AA8011/AA6082.
The influence of excessive H2 during barrier growth on InGaN light-emitting diodes
Authors: Li Yangfeng , Yan Shen , Junhui Die , Hu Xiaotao , Song Yimeng , Deng Zhen , Du Chunhua , Wang Wenqi , Ma Ziguang , Wang Lu , Jia Haiqiang , Wang Wenxin , Zhou Junming , Jiang Yang , Chen Hong
Published: October 2020

The influence of excessive H2 flow during barrier growth on optical and electrical properties of InGaN light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are investigated in this study. The room temperature photoluminescence of LEDs decays with excessive H2 treatment. Temperature-dependent photoluminescence (TDPL) reveals an increase of the density and a decrease of the activation energy of deep non-radiative recombination centers in the H2 treated LEDs. The external quantum efficiency (EQE) of the LEDs suffers from excessive H2 treatment. The leakage current on the reverse and forward sides of the LEDs are reduced significantly when treated with H2, which may be due to the suppressed Poole–Frenkel effect.
A simplified method of measuring thermal conductivity of β-Ga2O3 nanomembrane
Authors: Zheng Yixiong , Seo Jung-Hun
Published: October 2020

In this work, we report a simplified method to measure thermal conductivity from the typical Raman thermometry method by employing a much simpler dispersion relationship equation and the Debye function, instead of solving the heat equation. Unlike the typical Raman thermometry method, our new method only requires monitoring of the temperature-dependent Raman mode shifting without considering laser power-dependent Raman mode shifting. Thus, this new calculation method offers a simpler way to calculate the thermal conductivity of materials with great precision. As a model system, the β-Ga2O3 nanomembrane (NM) on a diamond substrate was prepared to measure thermal conductivity of β-Ga2O3 NMs at different thicknesses (100 nm, 1000 nm, and 4000 nm). Furthermore, the phonon penetration depth was investigated to understand how deep phonons can be dispersed in the sample so as to guide the dimensional design parameter of the device from the thermal management perspective.
Effects of an Internet-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia Program on Work Productivity: A Secondary Analysis
Authors: Shaffer Kelly M , Finkelstein Eric A , Camacho Fabian , Ingersoll Karen S , Thorndike Frances , Ritterband Lee M
Published: October 2020

Background

Cognitive-behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) may improve productivity along with insomnia symptoms, but the long-term duration of productivity gains is unknown.

Purpose

In this secondary analysis, effects of Internet-delivered CBT-I on work-related and daily activity productivity were examined through 1 year post-treatment.

Methods

Adults with chronic insomnia (N = 303) were randomized to Internet-delivered CBT-I (Sleep Healthy Using the Internet [SHUTi]) or to patient education (PE). Participants reported interference with attendance (absenteeism) and productivity (presenteeism) at paid employment and in daily activities outside work on the Work Productivity Activity Impairment scale at baseline, 9 weeks later for postintervention assessment (post-assessment), and 6- and 12-month follow-ups.

Results

Participants randomized to SHUTi were about 50% less likely than those in the PE condition to report any absenteeism (logistic regression odds ratio [OR] = 0.48 [95% confidence intervals {CI} = 0.24,0.96]), total impairment (OR = 0.52 [95% CI = 0.29,0.93]), or activity impairment (OR = 0.50 [95% CI = 0.30,0.85]) at post-assessment; however, differences were not detected at 6- or 12-month follow-ups. SHUTi participants also reported lower overall levels of presenteeism (constrained longitudinal data analysis MDiff = −6.84 [95% CI = −11.53, −2.15]), total impairment (MDiff = −7.62 [95% CI = −12.50, −2.73]), and activity impairment (MDiff = −7.47 [95% CI = −12.68, −2.26]) at post-assessment relative to PE participants. Differences were sustained at 6-month follow-up for presenteeism (MDiff = −5.02 [95% CI = −9.94, −0.10]) and total impairment (MDiff = −5.78 [95% CI = −10.91, −0.65]). No differences were detected by 12-month follow-up.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that Internet-based CBT-I may help accelerate improvement in work-related and daily activity impairment corroborating prior research, but did not find that CBT-I has persistent, long-term benefits in productivity relative to basic insomnia education.

Trial Registration

NCT00328250 “Effectiveness of Internet Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Intervention for Treating Insomnia” (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00328250).
Dynamics and Dispersal of Local Human Immunodeficiency Virus Epidemics Within San Diego and Across the San Diego–Tijuana Border
Authors: Vrancken Bram , Mehta Sanjay R , Ávila-Ríos Santiago , García-Morales Claudia , Tapia-Trejo Daniela , Reyes-Terán Gustavo , Navarro-Álvarez Samuel , Little Susan J , Hoenigl Martin , Pines Heather A , Patterson Thomas , Strathdee Steffanie A , Smith Davey M , Dellicour Simon , Chaillon Antoine
Published: October 2020

Background

Evolutionary analyses of well-annotated human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) sequence data can provide insights into viral transmission patterns and associated factors. Here, we explored the transmission dynamics of the HIV-1 subtype B epidemic across the San Diego (US) and Tijuana (Mexico) border region to identify factors that could help guide public health policy.

Methods

HIV pol sequences were collected from people with HIV in San Diego County and Tijuana between 1996–2018. A multistep phylogenetic approach was used to characterize the dynamics of spread. The contributions of geospatial factors and HIV risk group to the local dynamics were evaluated.

Results

Phylogeographic analyses of the 2034 sequences revealed an important contribution of local transmission in sustaining the epidemic, as well as a complex viral migration network across the region. Geospatial viral dispersal between San Diego communities occurred predominantly among men who have sex with men, with central San Diego being the main source (34.9%) and recipient (39.5%) of migration events. HIV migration was more frequent from San Diego county towards Tijuana than vice versa. Migrations were best explained by the driving time between locations.

Conclusions

The US-Mexico border may not be a major barrier to the spread of HIV, which may stimulate coordinated transnational intervention approaches. Whereas a focus on central San Diego has the potential to avert most spread, the substantial viral migration independent of central San Diego shows that county-wide efforts will be more effective. Combined, this work shows that epidemiological information gleaned from pathogen genomes can uncover mechanisms that underlie sustained spread and, in turn, can be a building block of public health decision-making.
The Effect of Prior Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitor and Angiotensin Receptor Blocker Treatment on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Susceptibility and Outcome: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Jiuyang , Teng Yaqun , Shang Lianhan , Gu Xiaoying , Fan Guohui , Chen Yijun , Tian Ran , Zhang Shuyang , Cao Bin
Published: October 2020

There have been arguments on whether angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) and angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) treatment alters the risk of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) susceptibility and disease severity. We identified a total of 102 eligible studies for systematic review, in which 49 studies adjusting for confounders were included in the meta-analysis. We found no association between prior ACEI/ARB use and risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in the general population (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.00; 95% confidence interval [CI], .94–1.05). The risk of mortality (aOR, .87; 95% CI, .66–1.04) and severe outcomes (aOR, .95; 95% CI, .73–1.24) were also unchanged among COVID-19 patients taking ACEIs/ARBs. These findings remained consistent in subgroup analyses stratified by populations, drug exposures, and other secondary outcomes. This systematic review provides evidence-based support to current medical guidelines and position statements that ACEIs/ARBs should not be discontinued. Additionally, there has been no evidence for initiating ACEI/ARB regimen as prevention or treatment of COVID-19.
The political economy of places from a Sustainable Human Development perspective: the case of Emilia-Romagna
Authors: Bianchi Patrizio , Biggeri Mario , Ferrannini Andrea
Published: October 2020

In this article, we discuss how integrated industrial policy can simultaneously pursue value-added generation and productivity enhancement in regional economies, along with inclusiveness and social cohesion. Our arguments are rooted in the integration of the literature on human development and capability approach, on economic geography and on industrial policy. In particular, we introduce a people-centred and place-based perspective on Sustainable Human Development and an interpretative political economy framework for the structural analysis of collective action in places. These arguments are illustrated by analysing recent industrial policies for a new social cohesion in the Emilia-Romagna region in Italy.
Transcriptome and proteome mapping in the sheep atria reveal molecular featurets of atrial fibrillation progression
Authors: Alvarez-Franco Alba , Rouco Raquel , Ramirez Rafael J , Guerrero-Serna Guadalupe , Tiana Maria , Cogliati Sara , Kaur Kuljeet , Saeed Mohammed , Magni Ricardo , Enriquez Jose Antonio , Sanchez-Cabo Fatima , Jalife José , Manzanares Miguel
Published: October 2020

Aims

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a progressive cardiac arrhythmia that increases the risk of hospitalization and adverse cardiovascular events. There is a clear demand for more inclusive and large-scale approaches to understand the molecular drivers responsible for AF, as well as the fundamental mechanisms governing the transition from paroxysmal to persistent and permanent forms. In this study, we aimed to create a molecular map of AF and find the distinct molecular programmes underlying cell type-specific atrial remodelling and AF progression.

Methods and results

We used a sheep model of long-standing, tachypacing-induced AF, sampled right and left atrial tissue, and isolated cardiomyocytes (CMs) from control, intermediate (transition), and late time points during AF progression, and performed transcriptomic and proteome profiling. We have merged all these layers of information into a meaningful three-component space in which we explored the genes and proteins detected and their common patterns of expression. Our data-driven analysis points at extracellular matrix remodelling, inflammation, ion channel, myofibril structure, mitochondrial complexes, chromatin remodelling, and genes related to neural function, as well as critical regulators of cell proliferation as hallmarks of AF progression. Most important, we prove that these changes occur at early transitional stages of the disease, but not at later stages, and that the left atrium undergoes significantly more profound changes than the right atrium in its expression programme. The pattern of dynamic changes in gene and protein expression replicate the electrical and structural remodelling demonstrated previously in the sheep and in humans, and uncover novel mechanisms potentially relevant for disease treatment.

Conclusions

Transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of AF progression in a large animal model shows that significant changes occur at early stages, and that among others involve previously undescribed increase in mitochondria, changes to the chromatin of atrial CMs, and genes related to neural function and cell proliferation.
Genetic deletion of p66shc and/or cyclophilin D results in decreased pulmonary vascular tone
Authors: Gierhardt Mareike , Pak Oleg , Sydykov Akylbek , Kraut Simone , Schäffer Julia , Garcia Claudia , Veith Christine , Zeidan Esraa M , Brosien Monika , Quanz Karin , Esfandiary Azadeh , Saraji Alireza , Hadzic Stefan , Kojonazarov Baktybek , Wilhelm Jochen , Ghofrani Hossein A , Schermuly Ralph T , Seeger Werner , Grimminger Friedrich , Herden Christiane , Schulz Rainer , Weissmann Norbert , Heger Jacqueline , Sommer Natascha
Published: October 2020

Aims

The pulmonary vascular tone and hypoxia-induced alterations of the pulmonary vasculature may be regulated by the mitochondrial membrane permeability transition pore (mPTP) that controls mitochondrial calcium load and apoptosis. We thus investigated, if the mitochondrial proteins p66shc and cyclophilin D (CypD) that regulate mPTP opening affect the pulmonary vascular tone.

Methods and results

Mice deficient for p66shc (p66shc−/−), CypD (CypD−/−), or both proteins (p66shc/CypD−/−) exhibited decreased pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) compared to wild-type mice determined in isolated lungs and in vivo. In contrast, systemic arterial pressure was only lower in CypD−/− mice. As cardiac function and pulmonary vascular remodelling did not differ between genotypes, we determined alterations of vascular contractility in isolated lungs and calcium handling in pulmonary arterial smooth muscle cells (PASMC) as underlying reason for decreased PVR. Potassium chloride (KCl)-induced pulmonary vasoconstriction and KCl-induced cytosolic calcium increase determined by Fura-2 were attenuated in all gene-deficient mice. In contrast, KCl-induced mitochondrial calcium increase determined by the genetically encoded Mito-Car-GECO and calcium retention capacity were increased only in CypD−/− and p66shc/CypD−/− mitochondria indicating that decreased mPTP opening affected KCl-induced intracellular calcium peaks in these cells. All mouse strains showed a similar pulmonary vascular response to chronic hypoxia, while acute hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction was decreased in gene-deficient mice indicating that CypD and p66shc regulate vascular contractility but not remodelling.

Conclusions

We conclude that p66shc specifically regulates the pulmonary vascular tone, while CypD also affects systemic pressure. However, only CypD acts via regulation of mPTP opening and mitochondrial calcium regulation.
Concrete Poetry and Scottish Women’s Writing: The Case of Veronica Forrest-Thomson
Authors: Thomas Greg
Published: October 2020

This article explores the relationship between concrete poetry and women’s writing, focusing especially on the concrete-influenced work of the Scottish poet and literary critic Veronica Forrest-Thomson. I initially acknowledge the male-dominated nature of the concrete poetry movement, consider some sociological reasons for the exclusion of women from the movement, and bring to light some examples of women creatively involved with concrete poetry. I then explore Forrest-Thomson’s early concrete-influenced verse and argue that Forrest-Thomson’s willingness and ability to experiment with concrete and other late-modernist literary styles reflected an exceptional degree of intellectual and economic independence. Finally, I consider the possibility that the term “Scottish women’s poetry” sometimes indicates a resistance to intellectually adventurous work such as Forrest-Thomson’s.
Different left ventricular remodelling patterns and clinical outcomes between non-ischaemic and ischaemic aetiologies in heart failure patients receiving sacubitril/valsartan treatment
Authors: Lee Ying-Hsiang , Chiou Wei-Ru , Hsu Chien-Yi , Lin Po-Lin , Liang Huai-Wen , Chung Fa-Po , Liao Chia-Te , Lin Wen-Yu , Chang Hung-Yu
Published: October 2020

Aims

Although the beneficial effect of sacubitril/valsartan (SAC/VAL) compared to enalapril was consistent across ischaemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) and non-ischaemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) groups, the PARADIGM-HF study did not analyse the effect of ventricular remodelling on patients with different aetiologies, which may affect clinical treatment outcomes. This study aimed to compare left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) following SAC/VAL treatment and its association with clinical outcomes.

Methods and results

A total of 1576 patients were analysed. Patients were grouped by LVEF changes following SAC/VAL treatment for 8-month period. LVEF improvement ≥15% was defined as ‘significant improvement’, and <5% or worse was classified as ‘lack of improvement’. The primary outcome was a composite of cardiovascular death and unplanned hospitalization for heart failure. Patients with NICM had lower baseline LVEF but improvement was significantly greater comparing to those with ICM (baseline 28.0 ± 7.7% vs. 30.1 ± 7.1%, P < 0.001, LVEF increase of 11.1 ± 12.6% vs. 6.7 ± 10.2%, P < 0.001). The effect of functional improvement of SAC/VAL on NICM patients showed bimodal distribution. Primary endpoints were inversely associated with LVEF changes in NICM patients: adjusted hazard ratio was 0.42 [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.31–0.58, P < 0.001] for NICM patients with significant improvement, and was 1.73 (95% CI 1.38–2.16, P < 0.001) for NICM patients but lack of improvement. Primary endpoints of ICM patients did not demonstrate an association with LVEF changes.

Conclusion

Patients with NICM had higher degree of LVEF improvement than those with ICM following SAC/VAL treatment, and significant improvement of LVEF in NICM patients indicates favourable outcome.
Comparing Occupational Adaptation-Based and Traditional Training Programs for Dementia Care Teams: An Embedded Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: McKay M Heather , Pickens Noralyn D , Medley Ann , Cooper David , Evetts Cynthia L
Published: October 2020

Background and Objectives

With a growing demand for a dementia-capable workforce, attention shifts from disseminating knowledge of care strategies to facilitating teams translating knowledge into practice. Occupational Adaptation (OA) is a theoretical framework used to facilitate people resolving real-world challenges through active problem-solving, using relative mastery as its measure. This pilot study evaluated if and how OA-based training improves dementia care teams’ relative mastery and team development more than a skills-based (SB) program.

Research Design and Methods

We report results of an embedded mixed-methods study with 28 employees of a continuing care retirement community (2 groups randomly assigned to 9-week programs). Data collection entailed 2 surveys conducted pre-, mid-, and postintervention; observations; journals; and follow-up interviews. We extended beyond quantitative and qualitative analyses with cross-cutting analyses exploring exemplar and exceptional cases.

Results

The OA group reported significantly greater improvements in relative mastery and team development (p < .05). Qualitative data supported the statistical findings and illuminated processes that led OA to outperform SB. OA participants, those who analyzed real cases and alternated collaborative planning with cooperative action, were more likely to indicate pre–post differences in relative mastery and team development.

Discussion and Implications

We identified features of the OA program that diverse participants deemed effective; features that suggest how OA could underpin clinically relevant learning for workers. Further research is required to develop evidence of clinical effectiveness; however, our findings have relevance for agencies wishing to promote knowledge translation and collaborative problem-solving in dementia workforce training.
Iterative solution of the Lippmann–Schwinger equation in strongly scattering acoustic media by randomized construction of preconditioners
Authors: Eikrem Kjersti Solberg , Nævdal Geir , Jakobsen Morten
Published: October 2020

In this work the Lippmann–Schwinger equation is used to model seismic waves in strongly scattering acoustic media. We consider the Helmholtz equation, which is the scalar wave equation in the frequency domain with constant density and variable velocity, and transform it to an integral equation of the Lippmann–Schwinger type. To directly solve the discretized problem with matrix inversion is time-consuming, therefore we use iterative methods. The Born series is a well-known scattering series which gives the solution with relatively small cost, but it has limited use as it only converges for small scattering potentials. There exist other scattering series with preconditioners that have been shown to converge for any contrast, but the methods might require many iterations for models with high contrast. Here we develop new preconditioners based on randomized matrix approximations and hierarchical matrices which can make the scattering series converge for any contrast with a low number of iterations. We describe two different preconditioners; one is best for lower frequencies and the other for higher frequencies. We use the fast Fourier transform both in the construction of the preconditioners and in the iterative solution, and this makes the methods efficient. The performance of the methods are illustrated by numerical experiments on two 2-D models.
Nonlinear full waveform inversion of wide-aperture OBS data for Moho structure using a trans-dimensional Bayesian method
Authors: Guo Peng , Singh Satish C , Vaddineni Venkata A , Visser Gerhard , Grevemeyer Ingo , Saygin Erdinc
Published: October 2020

Seismic full waveform inversion (FWI) is a powerful method for estimating quantitative subsurface physical parameters from seismic data. As the FWI is a nonlinear problem, the linearized approach updates model iteratively from an initial model, which can get trapped in local minima. In the presence of a high-velocity contrast, such as at Moho, the reflection coefficient and recorded waveforms from wide-aperture seismic acquisition are extremely nonlinear around critical angles. The problem at the Moho is further complicated by the interference of lower crustal (Pg) and upper mantle (Pn) turning ray arrivals with the critically reflected Moho arrivals (PmP). In order to determine velocity structure near Moho, a nonlinear method should be used. We propose to solve this strong nonlinear FWI problem at Moho using a trans-dimensional Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method, where the earth model between lower crust and upper mantle is ideally parametrized with a 1-D assumption using a variable number of velocity interfaces. Different from common MCMC methods that require determining the number of unknown as a fixed prior before inversion, trans-dimensional MCMC allows the flexibility for an automatic estimation of both the model complexity (e.g. the number of velocity interfaces) and the velocity–depth structure from the data. We first test the algorithm on synthetic data using four representative Moho models and then apply to an ocean bottom seismometer (OBS) data from the Mid-Atlantic Ocean. A 2-D finite-difference solution of an acoustic wave equation is used for data simulation at each iteration of MCMC search, for taking into account the lateral heterogeneities in the upper crust, which is constrained from traveltime tomography and is kept unchanged during inversion; the 1-D model parametrization near Moho enables an efficient search of the trans-dimensional model space. Inversion results indicate that, with very little prior and the wide-aperture seismograms, the trans-dimensional FWI method is able to infer the posterior distribution of both the number of velocity interfaces and the velocity–depth model for a strong nonlinear problem, making the inversion a complete data-driven process. The distribution of interface matches the velocity discontinuities. We find that the Moho in the study area is a transition zone of 0.7 km, or a sharp boundary with velocities from around 7 km s−1 in the lower crust to 8 km s−1 of the upper mantle; both provide nearly identical waveform match for the field data. The ambiguity comes from the resolution limit of the band-limited seismic data and limited offset range for PmP arrivals.
De novo variants in MPP5 cause global developmental delay and behavioral changes
Authors: Sterling Noelle , Duncan Anna R , Park Raehee , Koolen David A , Shi Jiahai , Cho Seo-Hee , Benke Paul J , Grant Patricia E , Genetti Casie A , VanNoy Grace E , Juusola Jane , McWalter Kirsty , Parboosingh Jillian S , Lamont Ryan E , Bernier Francois P , Smith Christopher , Harris David J , Stegmann Alexander P A , Innes A Micheil , Kim Seonhee , Agrawal Pankaj B
Published: October 2020

Membrane Protein Palmitoylated 5 (MPP5) is a highly conserved apical complex protein essential for cell polarity, fate and survival. Defects in cell polarity are associated with neurologic disorders including autism and microcephaly. MPP5 is essential for neurogenesis in animal models, but human variants leading to neurologic impairment have not been described. We identified three patients with heterozygous MPP5 de novo variants (DNV) and global developmental delay (GDD) and compared their phenotypes and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to ascertain how MPP5 DNV leads to GDD. All three patients with MPP5 DNV experienced GDD with language delay/regression and behavioral changes. MRI ranged from normal to decreased gyral folding and microcephaly. The effects of MPP5 depletion on the developing brain were assessed by creating a heterozygous conditional knock out (het CKO) murine model with central nervous system (CNS)-specific Nestin-Cre drivers. In the het CKO model, Mpp5 depletion led to microcephaly, decreased cerebellar volume and cortical thickness. Het CKO mice had decreased ependymal cells and Mpp5 at the apical surface of cortical ventricular zone compared with wild type. Het CKO mice also failed to maintain progenitor pools essential for neurogenesis. The proportion of cortical cells undergoing apoptotic cell death increased, suggesting that cell death reduces progenitor population and neuron number. Het CKO mice also showed behavioral changes, similar to our patients. To our knowledge, this is the first report to show that variants in MPP5 are associated with GDD, behavioral abnormalities and language regression/delay. Murine modeling shows that neurogenesis is likely altered in these individuals, with cell death and skewed cellular composition playing significant roles.
Custom-made endograft with left subclavian artery branch in a patient with Takayasu aortitis complicated by type-B dissection and inflammatory involvement of the epiaortic vessels
Authors: Rizza Antonio , De Caterina Alberto R , Palmieri Cataldo , Berti Sergio
Published: October 2020

Type-B aortic dissection in a patient affected by Takayasu disease is a rarely described condition and its management can be challenging. A 47-year-old woman with Takayasu aortitis and previous aortic valve and ascending aorta replacement was admitted to hospital for type-B aortic dissection. The recent instabilization of aortic disease, the persistence of episodes of transient chest pain and the largest size of the aneurismatic tract of thoracic descending aorta rendered an invasive approach mandatory. Since the patient presented a complete bilateral occlusion of the subclavian artery just after the origin of the vertebral artery and a subcritical, smooth, bilateral stenosis of the common carotid artery, a custom-made endograft with left subclavian artery branch was successfully positioned, thus allowing the preservation of antegrade left vertebral circulation. This is the first case reporting an entirely endovascular exclusion of type-B dissection in a patient affected by Takayasu aortitis using a custom-made endograft with a subclavian branch allowing the preservation of the antegrade flow to left vertebral artery.
Associations between mean arterial pressure during cardiopulmonary bypass and biomarkers of cerebral injury in patients undergoing cardiac surgery: secondary results from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wiberg Sebastian , Holmgaard Frederik , Blennow Kaj , Nilsson Jens C , Kjaergaard Jesper , Wanscher Michael , Langkilde Annika R , Hassager Christian , Rasmussen Lars S , Zetterberg Henrik , Vedel Anne Grønborg
Published: October 2020

OBJECTIVES

Cardiac surgery is associated with risk of cerebral injury and mean arterial pressure (MAP) during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is suggested to be associated with cerebral injury. The ‘Perfusion Pressure Cerebral Infarcts’ (PPCI) trial randomized patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and/or aortic valve replacement to a MAP of 40–50 or 70–80 mmHg during CPB and found no difference in clinical or imaging outcomes between the groups. We here present PPCI trial predefined secondary end points, consisting of biomarkers of brain injury.

METHODS

Blood was collected from PPCI trial patients at baseline, 24 and 48 h after induction of anaesthesia and at discharge from the surgical ward. Blood was analysed for neuron-specific enolase, tau, neurofilament light and the glial marker glial fibrillary acidic protein. Linear mixed models were used to analyse differences in biomarker value changes from baseline between the 2 MAP allocation groups.

RESULTS

A total of 193 (98%) patients were included. We found no differences in biomarker levels over time from baseline to discharge between the 2 MAP allocation groups (PNSE = 0.14, PTau = 0.46, PNFL = 0.21, PGFAP = 0.13) and the result did not change after adjustment for age, sex and type of surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

We found no significant differences in levels of biomarkers of neurological injury in patients undergoing elective or subacute CABG and/or aortic valve replacement randomized to either a target MAP of 40–50 mmHg or a target MAP of 70–80 mmHg during CBP.
Relative impact of red blood cell transfusion and anaemia on 5-year mortality in cardiac surgery
Authors: Tran Long , Greiff Guri , Wahba Alexander , Pleym Hilde , Videm Vibeke
Published: October 2020

OBJECTIVES

The aim was to compare the relative effects of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion and preoperative anaemia on 5-year mortality following open-heart cardiac surgery using structural equation modelling. We hypothesized that patient risk factors associated with RBC transfusion are of larger importance than transfusion itself.

METHODS

This prospective cohort study, part of the Cardiac Surgery Outcome Study at St. Olavs University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway, included open-heart on-pump cardiac surgery patients operated on from 2000 through 2017 (n = 9315). Structural equation modelling, which allows for intervariable correlations, was used to analyse pathway diagrams between known risk factors and observed mortality between 30 days and 5 years postoperatively. Observation times between 30 days and 1 year, and 1–5 years postoperatively were also compared with the main analysis.

RESULTS

In a simplified model, preoperative anaemia had a larger effect on 5-year mortality than RBC transfusion (standardized coefficients: 0.17 vs 0.09). The complete model including multiple risk factors showed that patient risk factors such as age (0.15), anaemia (0.10), pulmonary disease (0.11) and higher creatinine level (0.12) had larger effects than transfusion (0.03). Results from several sensitivity analyses supported the main findings. The models showed good fit.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative anaemia had a larger impact on 5-year mortality than RBC transfusion. Differences in 5-year mortality were mainly associated with patient risk factors.
A stochastic-programming approach for scheduling catch-up rounds in round-robin sport leagues
Authors: Yi Xiajie , Goossens Dries
Published: October 2020

In most sport leagues, a schedule is announced before the start of the season. However, due to unexpected events (e.g. bad weather conditions), some games cannot be played on the announced date. To handle this, before the start of the season, empty so-called catch-up rounds are positioned in the schedule as a buffer. During the season, games can then be rescheduled to these catch-up rounds. We develop a two-stage stochastic programming approach to determine where to position the catch-up rounds in order to maintain the quality of the realized schedule. While our method is generally applicable, we demonstrate its use with soccer. Scenarios and their probabilities are deduced from historical data from 10 major European soccer leagues. We study the impact of the number of catch-up rounds and costs on the positions of catch-up rounds and compare our method with other proactive strategies from the literature. We conclude with a case study based on the English Premier League. In particular when many games cannot be played as planned and few catch-up rounds are available, our stochastic programming approach outperforms existing methods with respect to maintaining a fair ranking and avoiding cancelled games.
Longitudinal Serological Analysis and Neutralizing Antibody Levels in Coronavirus Disease 2019 Convalescent Patients
Authors: Muecksch Frauke , Wise Helen , Batchelor Becky , Squires Maria , Semple Elizabeth , Richardson Claire , McGuire Jacqueline , Clearly Sarah , Furrie Elizabeth , Greig Neil , Hay Gordon , Templeton Kate , Lorenzi Julio C C , Hatziioannou Theodora , Jenks Sara , Bieniasz Paul D
Published: October 2020

Background

Understanding the longitudinal trajectory of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) antibodies is crucial for diagnosis of prior infection and predicting future immunity.

Methods

We conducted a longitudinal analysis of coronavirus disease 2019 convalescent patients, with neutralizing antibody assays and SARS-CoV-2 serological assay platforms using SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) or nucleocapsid (N) antigens.

Results

Sensitivities of serological assays in diagnosing prior SARS-CoV-2 infection changed with time. One widely used commercial platform that had an initial sensitivity of >95% declined to 71% at 81–100 days after diagnosis. The trajectories of median binding antibody titers measured over approximately 3–4 months were not dependent on the use of SARS-CoV-2 N or S proteins as antigen. The median neutralization titer decreased by approximately 45% per month. Each serological assay gave quantitative antibody titers that were correlated with SARS-CoV-2 neutralization titers, but S-based serological assay measurements better predicted neutralization potency. Correlation between S-binding and neutralization titers deteriorated with time, and decreases in neutralization titers were not predicted by changes in S-binding antibody titers.

Conclusions

Different SARS-CoV-2 serological assays are more or less well suited for surveillance versus prediction of serum neutralization potency. Extended follow-up should facilitate the establishment of appropriate serological correlates of protection against SARS-CoV-2 reinfection.
The success of particular Acinetobacter baumannii clones: accumulating resistance and virulence inside a sugary shield
Authors: Silva Liliana , Grosso Filipa , Rodrigues Carla , Ksiezarek Magdalena , Ramos Helena , Peixe Luísa
Published: October 2020

Background

In Portugal, carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) has been associated with ST98, ST103 and ST208 (Oxford Scheme, Oxf) and a clone has usually been associated with a particular period of time. These clonal shifts were primarily explained by an increased antimicrobial resistance profile. Here we explore genomic and biochemical differences among these and more recent clones, which could further explain the diversity and evolution of this species.

Methods

A total of 116 CRAB isolates (2010–15), together with representatives of a previously described CRAB collection (4 isolates, 2001–06) were characterized by attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR-ATR) and MLST. Representatives of different FTIR-ATR/MLST clusters were selected for WGS (n = 13), which allowed the in silico extraction of resistance and virulence genes, capsule locus and SNP analysis.

Results

A. baumannii clonal shifts of OXA-58-producing ST103Oxf (2001–04), OXA-40-producing ST98Oxf (2002–06), OXA-23-producing ST208Oxf (2006–10) and OXA-23-producing ST218Oxf (2010–15) were accompanied by an increase in AMR genes and virulence factors. FTIR-ATR clustering was congruent with sugar composition predicted from the capsular locus: a fucosamine cluster comprising ST98Oxf, ST103Oxf and a single ST218Oxf isolate; a pseudaminic acid cluster of ST208Oxf and ST1557Oxf isolates; and legionaminic acid, resembling the sialic acid from mammalian cells, in a cluster comprising ST218Oxf isolates. The whole-genome phylogenetic tree was congruent with MLST, with isolates presenting 5–28 938 SNPs. ST208Oxf and ST218Oxf presented ∼1900 SNPs while ST103Oxf and ST1557Oxf showed a greater number of SNPs (∼28 000).

Conclusions

Clonal shifts of CRAB were promoted, in our country, by consecutive virulence and AMR gene pool enlargement, together with features increasing pathogen–host adaptation. Worldwide dominance of ST218Oxf is supported by the combination of high AMR and virulence levels.
Incorporation of Methoxyphenamine into Hair in Early Stage after Intake
Authors: Nitta Atsushi , Shima Noriaki , Kamata Tooru , Sasaki Keiko , Matsuta Shuntaro , Ishikawa Akari , Asai Ryutaro , Wada Misato , Kakehashi Hidenao , Fujii Shihoko , Kamata Hiroe , Nishioka Hiroshi , Sato Takako , Tsuchihashi Hitoshi , Miki Akihiro , Katagi Munehiro
Published: October 2020

In order to investigate the incorporation behavior of drugs into hair in early stage (within 24 h) after intake, time-course changes in drug distribution in black hair were carefully analyzed after a single oral administration of methoxyphenamine (MOP), a non-regulated analog of methamphetamine. Single-hair specimens collected by plucking with the roots intact at appropriate intervals post-intake were each divided into 1-mm segments from the proximal end, and MOP in each segment was determined by a validated liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry procedure. At 10 min after intake, MOP was not detected in any of the segments. MOP became detectable 30 min after intake in the hair bulb (0–1-mm segment from the proximal end) and 1 h after intake in the upper dermis zone (1–2-mm to 4–5-mm segments). The amount of MOP in the hair bulb increased rapidly over 3 h after intake and reached a maximum concentration of ∼100–900 pg/1-mm single hair (11–95 ng/mg) around 3–10 h after intake, whereas that in the upper dermis zone increased at a more gradual pace over 24 h and reached a plateau at ∼30–100 pg/1-mm hair (3–11 ng/mg). These differences can be attributed to the different incorporation mechanisms of the drug. Results from this study can further elucidate the drug incorporation mechanism, which is crucial for accurately interpreting results in hair analyses. Our findings also suggest that hair drug analysis with special attention to the hair root can serve as a useful complementary approach to urine- and blood-based testing in the field of forensic toxicology.
State of Exception
Authors: Imseis Ardi
Published: October 2020

In December 2019, the Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court concluded her preliminary examination into the situation in Palestine, determining there is a reasonable basis to initiate an investigation into the situation. Instead of doing so, she first decided to seek a ruling from the Pre-Trial Chamber on the scope of the Court’s territorial jurisdiction, specifically aimed at confirming her view that the ‘territory’ over which the Court may exercise its jurisdiction comprises the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT). This article focuses on the amici curiae observations and other communications made by eight states parties in the proceedings — Australia, Austria, Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary and Uganda. A critical examination of these observations and communications reveals that they did not answer the question posed by the OTP, but rather advanced a number of strained arguments aimed, inter alia, at impugning the very notion that the Court has any jurisdiction at all on the basis that Palestine is not a state. When juxtaposed against the ostensible commitment of these states parties to the object and purpose of the Statute, their observations and other communications reveal a conspicuous hypocrisy. If accepted by the Court, these observations and communications would operate to not only affirm the continued contingency of the state of Palestine on the international plane, but, even worse, to shield persons known to have committed or be committing crimes of the gravest concern to the international community with impunity.
Local effects of global climate on a small rodentNecromys lasiurus
Authors: Magnusson William , Rosa Clarissa , Layme Viviane Maria Guedes , Ghizoni Ivo Rohling , Lima Albertina Pimentel
Published: October 2020

Global climate drivers often have strong effects on the carrying capacity of animal populations, but little is known about how effects differ between regional and local scales. In this paper we evaluated how climate variables were correlated with regional and local fluctuations of a small rodent, Necromys lasiurus, in an Amazonian savanna. Between 2000 and 2019, we evaluated the temporal variation in abundance of N. lasiurus in eight 4.0-ha plots separated by 0.8 – 10.6 km. Using generalized linear mixed models, we found that, at a regional scale, the abundance of rodents captured was positively associated with the abundance in the prior year, but had little relationship with the Southern Oscillation Index (SOI), which had been shown to affect rats in a single plot in a previous study. However, variation in densities among years was coordinated among some plots, leading to patchiness in population dynamics. Based on the patterns of density fluctuations, the plots formed three clusters. Analyses based on these clusters indicated that only one was strongly affected by SOI, as in the previous study. The differences in the effects of global climate drivers on populations of a single species in relatively homogeneous habitat indicate that predictions about the effects of climate change should be based on simultaneous studies in a variety of sites or they may lead to spurious relationships.