bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determination and assessment of water resources balance of Aydar-Arnasay Lake System in Uzbekistan
Authors: Kulmatov R , Ruzikulova O , Taylakov A
Published: August 2022

Determining and assessing the water balance of the Aydar Arnasay Lakes System (AALS) is important for the development of fisheries, ecotourism and efficient use of water resources in the region. The amount of water included in the water balance of the AALS is the addition of Syrdarya water, collector drainage water, snow-rain and groundwater, which are poured into the lake system through the Chordara reservoir. The amount of water released from the lake system includes water released from the water basin by evaporation into the atmosphere, used for infiltration and irrigation. The article identifies and evaluates changes in the amount of AALS water balance for 2004-2018.
Analysis of the danger of thermal radiation of a spherical flame
Authors: Kanareykin A I
Published: August 2022

A new mathematical model of spherical flame propagation during emergency emission and ignition of mixtures of hydrocarbon gases in an open space has been developed. A comparative analysis of the results of the study made it possible to establish the main mechanisms of heating of a combustible gas mixture as a result of radiation from gorenje products. As a result of mathematical modeling, the resulting radiation model meets the real gorenje conditions of gas-air mixtures.
Experimental study of the dissociation of a double gas hydrate with a change in the initial height of the layer
Authors: Morozov V S
Published: August 2022

In this work, experimental studies of the dissociation of methane-ethane hydrate with and without combustion are carried out with a change in the initial height of the layer. Gas hydrate powder with an initial height of 3 and 15 mm was used. In the samples, the initial concentration of methane is 64% and ethane is 36%. An increase in the initial height of the powder layer led to a 1.3-fold increase in the flame front velocity. Due to the increase in the initial height of the layer, the dissociation rate decreases by 7.2 times before combustion and by 4.1 times during combustion.
Energy of the region: some conditions necessary for its development in the Central Asian region
Authors: Sharipov U A , Boboev F J , Khusainov M N , Gulakov U M , Saidova M J
Published: August 2022

The level of development is largely determined by the effectiveness of its individual structural elements and is strengthened under the influence of a number of factors. Among them, a special place is occupied by the problems of the optimal mechanism for the development of natural energy resources, which form the basis of the national strategy. In this regard, taking into account the peculiarities of the state and prospects for the development of the resource potential of Tajikistan and the entire Central Asian region, it became necessary to search for new forms of exploitation of natural and energy resources, since in our conditions, only the optimal development of the energy sector in the direction of developing mechanisms for the formation of the energy sector of the entire Central Asian region gives a chance to change the situation. However, in this area of the national economy there are a number of unresolved problems, which include: a low level of energy supply to the population of the regions, a high level of electricity losses, both during its transmission and during its use, insufficient electricity production in the presence of a resource component. The complex of these problems can be solved by a systematic method, one of which is the study and development of mechanisms for the formation of energy clusters in the Central Asian region, and the dynamic development of cluster formations of hydropower resources. In this regard, the study is aimed at studying current trends in the development of energy resources in the context of determining the prospects and mechanisms for the formation of an energy cluster in the Central Asian region and their application in the conditions of Tajikistan, which predetermines the relevance and relevance of the study.
On models of wave processes in geological structures with the presence of a interlayer water
Authors: Pavlova A V , Rubtsov S E , Telyatnikov I S
Published: August 2022

The theory of seismic processes, as well as the solution of applied problems of vibrational geophysics and seismology, are associated with the study of wave processes in the structures of the crustal level. In this work we considered a layered structure, including a layer of liquid with coating in the form of an elastic layer, as a model of the geological environment. An algorithm for constructing wave fields in a two-layer medium, caused by harmonic oscillations of a concentrated source, is presented. The research method is based on the use of the integral Fourier transform. Examples of calculation of mechanical characteristics for a model problem are given.
Analysis of chromogenic materials for angular-selective smart windows with efficient use of solar energy
Authors: Zakirullin R S , Odenbakh I A
Published: August 2022

This paper analyzes the achievements in recent years in the development of chromogenic materials and technologies, with a special emphasis on those that would be most effective for use both in conventional smart windows with a single continuous chromogenic layer, developed since the 1990s, and in grating smart windows, the development of which began in the 2010s. The latter have some advantages in creating a comfortable indoor lighting environment, such as angle-selective limitation of the transmission of direct solar radiation while increasing the transmission of sky-scattered radiation and radiation reflected from the ground and the facades of opposing buildings. The angular selectivity of a grating smart window is ensured by alternately passing direct sunlight through thin-film gratings with alternating transmissive and chromogenic strips on two window surfaces. Among the variety of chromogenic technologies, the most promising ones for smart windows of both types were identified. Taking into account the technological features of manufacturing grating windows, the possible cost of this technology was preliminary estimated.
On the conversion and application of solar energy in the technological process
Authors: Kanareykin A I
Published: August 2022

The work is devoted to one of the possibilities of converting and using solar energy generated by solar panels. The issue of implementing the technological process directly from the panels themselves without converters is considered. The article considered the pros and cons of such an implementation, the result obtained can be applied both in industry and in private.
Annual thermal performance of a passive solar heating system with a Trombe wall with phase change materials
Authors: Samiev K A , Mirzaev M S , Ibragimov U X
Published: August 2022

In this work, the potential of a passive solar heating system with a Trombe wall with phase change materials for the climatic conditions of Uzbekistan was evaluated. A dynamic mathematical model has been developed, and validation has been carried out by comparing experimental data. The annual thermal characteristics of a three-room residential building, a three-room residential building with a Trombe wall, a three-room residential building with a Trombe wall with phase-change heat accumulator materials are determined. Calculations show that the specific energy consumption for heating a 3-room residential building is 211 kW·hr/m2·year, and the energy consumption for heating such an object with a Tromba wall installed on the southern wall is 134.3 kW·hr/m2·year, the energy consumption for heating such an object with the Trombe wall installed on the southern wall with phase change materials are 91.8 kW·hr/m2 year. This means that the use of the Trombe wall system will lead to a reduction in energy consumption by at least 36%. The average value of the thermal efficiency of the Trombe wall for the heating period is 37.08%, and the average value of the thermal efficiency of the Trombe wall with phase change materials for the heating period is 52.6%.
Environmental justification for the use of solar panels and batteries as an alternative energy source
Authors: Chernysheva N V , Frantseva T P , Osepyan Y. , Chernyaeva A A , Sukhomlinova A G
Published: August 2022

The article considers the relevance of using solar panels on the roof of a hypermarket. The cost calculation and the scheme of installation of panels, their profitability and payback are made. The advantages of using bat ray from the point of view of an environmentally friendly energy source are considered.
Building models for forecasting energy consumption using a fuzzy knowledge base and a regression model
Authors: Muhamediyeva D T
Published: August 2022

The main purpose of the work is to build models for forecasting energy consumption. With the goal in mind, the problems of building energy consumption models are solved using the Sugeno fuzzy knowledge base and the regression model. The presentation of the material is carried out on the example of constructing a fuzzy model of the dependence of energy consumption on the number of population and gross domestic product (GDP). It is necessary to find out how energy consumption depends on the population, GDP, and the price of oil. The synthesized fuzzy model will have one output and three inputs.
Prospects for the development of the oil and gas sector in the Russian Federation
Authors: Zhichkin K , Zhichkina L , Moskaleva M , Sharipov F F , Dikikh V A , Mozgovoy A I , Britvina V V
Published: August 2022

The purpose of the study was to predict the prospects for the development of this sector. As part of this, the following tasks were set: - to analyze the state of oil and gas production in Russia and the world; - to determine the factors affecting the economic efficiency of oil and gas production; - predict the level of production in the medium term. Currently, Russia ranks 2nd in terms of oil and gas production, and in terms of reserves - 7th and 1st respectively. Oil and gas production enterprises play an important social role, providing employment for a significant number of the population, high incomes, and maintenance of social facilities. Industry enterprises have shown high resilience to external influences during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukrainian crisis.
Prospects for the development of mobile equipment for adding and mixing additives
Authors: Iovleva E L , Androsov L A , Cherin I V
Published: August 2022

In winter, food and essential goods are delivered to remote settlements of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) by winter roads. As a rule, such long routes are driven by cars running on a diesel engine. Despite the difficulties in operating diesel vehicles in extremely low temperatures, diesel vehicles are much more powerful and more economical than gasoline ones. Problems with the start and operation of a diesel engine are associated with the low-temperature properties of diesel fuel. In the article, we considered the possibility of developing portable equipment for introducing and mixing a pour point depressant with fuel in the real conditions of the Far North. We have described a block diagram and a functional diagram of such equipment. In the plant being designed, we have included the possibility of heating the fuel and additives, the filtration system, the control panel and the safety of the system.
Study on the correlation of macro-fine parameters of surrounding rock in sand and cobble tunnel based on discrete element
Authors: Zhao Peng , Ma Weibin
Published: August 2022

As a mixture of soil and rock, the deformation of surrounding rock caused by tunnel excavation in the sandy cobble stratum is affected by the meso-structure of the stratum. In this paper, the mechanical and engineering characteristics of sandy cobble soil are studied in depth using a laboratory large-scale triaxial test and discrete element numerical simulation test, and the effects of main microscopic parameters on the characteristics of sandy cobble soil are analyzed, including the same specimen size, moisture content, compactness, confining pressure as well as loading method. The microscopic parameters such as contact modulus E

c
, friction coefficient f

r
, and stiffness bond ratio n of sandy pebble soil can be obtained. Meanwhile, the accuracy and uniqueness of microscopic parameters are determined using the response surface method. Moreover, the influence of different contact modulus and friction coefficient on the macroscopic mechanical properties of sandy pebble soil is quantitatively analyzed. The obtained conclusions are drawn as follows: the elastic modulus of sandy pebble soil decreases with the increase of water content. The peak value point of the stress-strain curve of sandy pebble soil increases with the increase of contact modulus and friction coefficient, respectively. The relationship between peak stress and the two types of fine-scale parameters can both be described by logarithmic functions. Compared to fine-grained soils, sandy pebble soils start to break down at about 3.5% of the axial strain, and the sandy cobble soil can still bear a certain load after reaching the peak strength. The results can provide a reference for the calculation and discrete element simulation of tunnels in sand and pebble strata.
Crack extension analysis and fatigue life assessment of single lug and yoke joints containing initial defects
Authors: Ma Shuai , Duan Jinhui , Cheng Jiansheng , Li Fei , Wang Ru , Zhou Lijun
Published: August 2022

To investigate the impact of initial cracks on the fatigue performance of single lug and yoke joints, fatigue testing was performed for defective welding joint models. The crack extension behaviors were investigated based on the theories of fracture mechanics using ANSYS-FRANC3D interactive technology, and the effects of the initial crack location, morphology pattern, and surface angle on fatigue performance were determined. The results showed a fatigue failure mode in which the crack extended along the welding line for single lug and yoke joints. The fatigue life was shorter when the initial crack was in the corner of the single lug plate. Moreover, the crack growth rates during the early stage of crack extension varied significantly with different initial crack morphology patterns. However, the crack growth rates during the later stages were similar to one another. The remaining fatigue life increased with the shape ratio for the same crack depth. Finally, the crack growth rate was the fastest, and the remaining fatigue life was the shortest when the initial crack surface angle was inclined toward the stress concentration area.
Wear characteristics of austenitic steel and martensitic steel at high temperature
Authors: Bai Zhixiong , Su Ning , Yang Hang , Wu Xiaochun
Published: August 2022

Wear under high temperature is one of the mechanisms of die failure. Therefore, wear resistance at high temperature is an important parameter for selecting die materials. In this work, the wear resistance of SDHA austenitic steel (6Mn14Cr3Mo2Si1V2 steel) and 4Cr5Mo2V martensitic steel at 400 °C–700 °C was investigated using a friction and wear tester. The wear behaviour and oxide type were investigated using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and by X-ray diffraction (XRD), respectively. The results show that the oxides on the worn surface at the test temperatures are Fe2O3 and Fe3O4. With increasing test temperature, from 400 °C to 700 °C, the wear volume of the two steels initially decreases and then increases. Between these two temperatures, the wear volume of SDHA austenitic steel increased from 29.7 mm3 to 81.2 mm3, a 173.4% increase. The wear volume of 4Cr5Mo2V martensitic steel increased from 34.7 mm3 to 134.7 mm3, a 267.4% increase. Hence, SDHA austenitic steel has better wear resistance than 4Cr5Mo2V martensitic steel. This is attributed to excellent hardness stability at high temperature. The coarse M7C3 carbides in 4Cr5Mo2V martensitic steel cause peeling and delamination of the oxide layer, reducing wear resistance at 700 °C.
Intrinsic Approach to Galois Theory of 𝑞-Difference Equations
Authors: Di Vizio Lucia , Hardouin Charlotte , Granier Anne
Published: August 2022

The Galois theory of difference equations has witnessed a major evolution in the last two decades. In the particular case of

q
q

-difference equations, authors have introduced several different Galois theories. In this memoir we consider an arithmetic approach to the Galois theory of

q
q

-difference equations and we use it to establish an arithmetical description of some of the Galois groups attached to

q
q

-difference systems.
Science and Management Advancements Made Possible by the USA National Phenology Network's Nature's Notebook Platform
Authors: Crimmins Theresa , Denny Ellen , Posthumus Erin , Rosemartin Alyssa , Croll Rob , Montano Melonee , Panci Hannah
Published: August 2022

The USA National Phenology Network was established in 2007 to formalize standardized phenology monitoring across the country. The aims of the network are to collect, store, and share phenology data and information to support scientific discovery, decision-making, an appreciation for phenology, and equitable engagement within the network. To support these aims, the network launched Nature's Notebook, a rigorous platform for monitoring plant and animal phenology, in 2009.

Since the launch of Nature's Notebook, participants across the country have contributed over 30 million phenology records. The participants range from backyard observers with an interest in nature to researchers and natural resource managers asking specific questions. We survey the breadth of studies and applied decisions that have used Nature's Notebook and the consequent data. The dimensionality of the data set maintained by the network is a function of Nature's Notebook users; this insight is key to shaping the network’s future data collection activities.
Leaflet disruption of ViV-TAVI after bioprosthetic valve fracture leading to severe aortic regurgitation: a case report
Authors: Ballout Edouard , Combaret Nicolas , Riocreux Clément , Souteyrand Géraud
Published: August 2022

Background

Valve-in-valve (ViV) transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) has emerged as an alternative for the treatment of degenerated bioprosthetic valves (BPVs) for high surgical risk patients. However, this procedure often results in patient-prosthesis mismatch. BPV fracture is a novel technique to address this problem. From now, complications following BPV fracture are few.

Case summary

We present the case of a 84-year-old female with history of first surgical aortic BPV replacement with a Mitroflow Sorin 23 mm due to severe aotic stenosis in 2009. In 2017, a second intervention due to bioprosthetic aortic valve stenosis valve was performed with valve-in-valve TAVI with CoreValve Evolut R 23 mm. In 2021, she was admitted with severe heart failure due to TAVI degeneration with severe stenosis in the bioprothesis. After heart team discussions, the patient was deemed inoperable for new heart surgery and considered as a candidate for BPV fracture as last possible alternative. After BPV fracture was performed, the patient suffered acute hypotension. Urgent transoesophageal echocardiography and angiogram demonstrated severe acute intra-TAVI aortic insufficiency because of probable disruption of the CoreValve leaflets. The patient was successfully treated with a ViV 23 mm SAPIEN three Edwards valve with a resolution of the aortic insufficiency and improvement of her haemodynamics. The patient remains asymptomatic after 6 months, with improvement in clinical status.

Discussion

This case demonstrates a disruption of the transcatheter heart valve leaflets causing severe aortic regurgitation as one of the complication of BPV fracture. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a TAVI in a patient who was already operated with ViV-TAVI. Although case series described few complications with improvement in clinical status, the procedure should be established with appropriate planning and careful technique.
A case series of acute responses to high-intensity interval training in four males with permanent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Vidal-Almela Sol , Terada Tasuku , Cole Christie A , O’Neill Carley D , Comeau Katelyn , Marçal Isabela R , Pipe Andrew L , Reed Jennifer L
Published: August 2022

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a serious medical condition and a burgeoning patient population. Chronic exercise training, including high-intensity interval training (HIIT), has been shown to improve symptoms and quality of life in patients with AF. Yet, the acute responses to HIIT in this population remain understudied, leaving clinicians and patients hesitant about prescribing and engaging in high-intensity exercise, respectively.

Case summary

This case series describes acute exercise responses [i.e. power output, heart rate (HR), blood pressure (BP), ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), symptoms] to 10 weeks (3 days/week) of HIIT. Participants were four white males (58–80 years old) with permanent AF, co-morbidities (diabetes, coronary artery disease, Parkinson’s disease), and physical limitations. The increases in HR and BP during HIIT were modest across all participants, regardless of age and medication use. Differences in RPE were observed; the oldest participant perceived the sessions as more challenging despite a lower HR response. All patients complied with the HIIT prescription of 80–100% of peak power output by week 4. No adverse events were reported.

Discussion

Patients’ concerns regarding high-intensity exercise may discourage them from participating in HIIT, our results demonstrated no abnormal HR or BP (e.g. hypotension) responses during HIIT or cool-down. These findings align with the typical exercise responses noted in other cardiovascular populations. Notwithstanding the high metabolic demands of HIIT, male patients with permanent AF tolerated HIIT without problem. Further investigation of HIIT as an approach to enable those with AF to recover physical capacity and minimize symptomatology is warranted.
Performance of current risk stratification models for predicting mortality in patients with heart failure: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Siddiqi Tariq Jamal , Ahmed Aymen , Greene Stephen J , Shahid Izza , Usman Muhammad Shariq , Oshunbade Adebamike , Alkhouli Mohamad , Hall Michael E , Murad Mohammad Hassan , Khera Rohan , Jain Vardhmaan , Van Spall Harriette G C , Khan Muhammad Shahzeb
Published: August 2022

Aims

There are several risk scores designed to predict mortality in patients with heart failure (HF). This study aimed to assess performance of risk scores validated for mortality prediction in patients with acute HF (AHF) and chronic HF.

Methods and results

MEDLINE and Scopus were searched from January 2015 to January 2021 for studies which internally or externally validated risk models for predicting all-cause mortality in patients with AHF and chronic HF. Discrimination data were analysed using C-statistics, and pooled using generic inverse-variance random-effects model. Nineteen studies (n = 494 156 patients; AHF: 24 762; chronic HF mid-term mortality: 62 000; chronic HF long-term mortality: 452 097) and 11 risk scores were included. Overall, discrimination of risk scores was good across the three subgroups: AHF mortality [C-statistic: 0.76 (0.68–0.83)], chronic HF mid-term mortality [1 year; C-statistic: 0.74 (0.68–0.79)], and chronic HF long-term mortality [≥2 years; C-statistic: 0.71 (0.69–0.73)]. MEESSI-AHF [C-statistic: 0.81 (0.80–0.83)] and MARKER-HF [C-statistic: 0.85 (0.80–0.89)] had an excellent discrimination for AHF and chronic HF mid-term mortality, respectively, whereas MECKI had good discrimination [C-statistic: 0.78 (0.73–0.83)] for chronic HF long-term mortality relative to other models. Overall, risk scores predicting short-term mortality in patients with AHF did not have evidence of poor calibration (Hosmer–Lemeshow P > 0.05). However, risk models predicting mid-term and long-term mortality in patients with chronic HF varied in calibration performance.

Conclusions

The majority of recently validated risk scores showed good discrimination for mortality in patients with HF. MEESSI-AHF demonstrated excellent discrimination in patients with AHF, and MARKER-HF and MECKI displayed an excellent discrimination in patients with chronic HF. However, modest reporting of calibration and lack of head-to-head comparisons in same populations warrant future studies.
Potential of non-Saccharomycesyeast to produce non-alcoholic beer
Authors: Vaštík Peter , Rosenbergová Zuzana , Furdíková Katarína , Klempová Tatiana , Šišmiš Michal , Šmogrovičová Daniela
Published: August 2022

Recently, non-Saccharomyces yeast have become very popular in wine and beer fermentation. Their interesting abilities introduce novel aromatic profiles to the fermented product. In this study, screening of eight non-Saccharomyces yeast (Starmerella bombicola, Lindnera saturnus, Lindnera jadinii, Zygosaccharomyces rouxii, Torulaspora delbrueckii, Pichia kluyveri, Candida pulcherrima, and Saccharomycodes ludwigii) revealed their potential in non-alcoholic beer production. Conditions for non-alcoholic beer production were optimised for all strains tested (except T. delbrueckii) with the best results obtained at temperature 10 to 15 °C for maximum of 10 days. Starmerella bombicola, an important industrial producer of biosurfactants, was used for beer production for the first time and was able to produce non-alcoholic beer even at 20°C after 10 days of fermentation. Aromatic profile of the beer fermented with S. bombicola was neutral with no negative impact on organoleptic properties of the beer. The most interesting organoleptic properties were evaluated in beers fermented with L. jadinii and L. saturnus, which produced banana-flavoured beers with low alcohol content. This work confirmed the suitability of mentioned yeast to produce non-alcoholic beers and could serve as a steppingstone for further investigation.
Alteration of pectin metabolism in blood orange fruit (Citrus sinensis cv. Tarocco) in response to vesicle collapse
Authors: Hou Jiao , Yan Dandan , Huang Meizhu , Zeng Kaifang , Yao Shixiang
Published: August 2022

Segment drying is a severe physiological disorder of citrus fruit, and vesicles become granulated or collapsed. Aside from the hypothesis that alteration of cell wall metabolism is the main factor of citrus granulation, little is known about vesicle collapse. This study aimed to elucidate the changes in pectin metabolism during vesicle collapse in blood orange. Vesicle collapse was characterized by decreased nutrients and increased chelate- and sodium carbonate-soluble pectin and calcium content. The nanostructure of chelate-soluble pectin became complex and developed multi-branching upon collapse. The activity of pectin methylesterase increased, while that of polygalacturonase and pectate lyase decreased upon collapse. Genome-wide transcriptional analysis revealed an increasing pattern of genes encoding pectin methylesterase and other enzymes involved in pectin synthesis and demethylesterification upon collapse. Drying vesicles were characterized by increased abscisic acid content and relevant gene expression. In conclusion, we discovered alteration in pectin metabolism underlying citrus vesicle collapse, mainly promoting pectin demethylesterification, remodeling pectin structures, and further inhibiting pectin degradation, which was hypothesized to be a main factor for citrus collapse. This is the first study to disclose the potential intrinsic mechanism underlying vesicle collapse in orange fruit.
Accounting for population structure in genomic predictions of Eucalyptus globulus
Authors: Callister Andrew N , Bermann Matias , Elms Stephen , Bradshaw Ben P , Lourenco Daniela , Brawner Jeremy T
Published: August 2022

Genetic groups have been widely adopted in tree breeding to account for provenance effects within pedigree-derived relationship matrices. However, provenances or genetic groups have not yet been incorporated into single-step genomic BLUP (“HBLUP”) analyses of tree populations. To quantify the impact of accounting for population structure in Eucalyptus globulus, we used HBLUP to compare breeding value predictions from models excluding base population effects and models including either fixed genetic groups or the marker-derived proxies, also known as metafounders. Full-sib families from 2 separate breeding populations were evaluated across 13 sites in the “Green Triangle” region of Australia. Gamma matrices (Γ) describing similarities among metafounders reflected the geographic distribution of populations and the origins of 2 land races were identified. Diagonal elements of Γ provided population diversity or allelic covariation estimates between 0.24 and 0.56. Genetic group solutions were strongly correlated with metafounder solutions across models and metafounder effects influenced the genetic solutions of base population parents. The accuracy, stability, dispersion, and bias of model solutions were compared using the linear regression method. Addition of genomic information increased accuracy from 0.41 to 0.47 and stability from 0.68 to 0.71, while increasing bias slightly. Dispersion was within 0.10 of the ideal value (1.0) for all models. Although inclusion of metafounders did not strongly affect accuracy or stability and had mixed effects on bias, we nevertheless recommend the incorporation of metafounders in prediction models to represent the hierarchical genetic population structure of recently domesticated populations.
Chromoanagenesis in the asy1 meiotic mutant of Arabidopsis
Authors: Guo Weier , Comai Luca , Henry Isabelle M
Published: August 2022

Chromoanagenesis is a catastrophic event that involves localized chromosomal shattering and reorganization. In this study, we report a case of chromoanagenesis resulting from defective meiosis in the MEIOTIC ASYNAPTIC MUTANT 1 (asy1) background in Arabidopsis thaliana. We provide a detailed characterization of the genomic structure of this individual with a severely shattered segment of chromosome 1. We identified 260 novel DNA junctions in the affected region, most of which affect gene sequence on 1 or both sides of the junction. Our results confirm that asy1-related defective meiosis is a potential trigger for chromoanagenesis. This is the first example of chromoanagenesis associated with female meiosis and indicates the potential for genome evolution during oogenesis.

Plain Language Summary

Chromoanagenesis is a complex and catastrophic event that results in severely restructured chromosomes. It has been identified in cancer cells and in some plant samples, after specific triggering events. Here, we identified this kind of genome restructuring in a mutant that exhibits defective meiosis in the model plant system Arabidopsis thaliana.
Using Conditional Inference Forests to Examine Predictive Ability for Future Falls and Syncope in Older Adults: Results from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing
Authors: Donoghue Orna A , Hernandez Belinda , O’Connell Matthew D L , Kenny Rose Anne
Published: August 2022

Background

The extent to which gait and mobility measures predict falls relative to other risk factors is unclear. This study examined the predictive accuracy of over 70 baseline risk factors, including gait and mobility, for future falls and syncope using conditional inference forest models.

Methods

Data from 3 waves of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), a population-based study of community-dwelling adults aged ≥50 years were used (n = 4 706). Outcome variables were recurrent falls, injurious falls, unexplained falls, and syncope occurring over 4-year follow-up. The predictive accuracy was calculated using 5-fold cross-validation; as there was a class imbalance, the algorithm was trained using undersampling of the larger class. Classification rate, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), and area under the precision recall curve (PRAUC) assessed predictive accuracy.

Results

Highest overall accuracy was 69.7% for recurrent falls in 50–64-year olds. AUROC and PRAUC were ≤0.69 and ≤0.39, respectively, for all outcomes indicating low predictive accuracy. History of falls, unsteadiness while walking, fear of falling, mobility, medications, mental health, and cardiovascular health and function were the most important predictors for most outcomes.

Conclusions

Conditional inference forest models using over 70 risk factors resulted in low predictive accuracy for future recurrent, injurious and unexplained falls, and syncope in community-dwelling adults. Gait and mobility impairments were important predictors of most outcomes but did not discriminate well between fallers and non-fallers. Results highlight the importance of multifactorial risk assessment and intervention and validate key modifiable risk factors for future falls and syncope.
Association Between Late-Life Weight Change and Dementia: A Population-based Cohort Study
Authors: Guo Jie , Marseglia Anna , Shang Ying , Dove Abigail , Grande Giulia , Fratiglioni Laura , Xu Weili
Published: August 2022

Background

The impact of late-life weight changes on incident dementia is unclear. We aimed to investigate the associations of body mass index (BMI) and weight changes with dementia and to explore the role of APOE ɛ4 in these associations.

Methods

A total of 1 673 dementia-free participants aged ≥60 and older were followed for an initial 6 years to detect changes in BMI/weight and then for an additional 6 years to detect incident dementia. BMI change ([BMIfirst 6-year follow-up − BMIbaseline]/BMIbaseline) was categorized as stable (≤5%), and moderate (5%–10%) or large (>10%) gain or loss. Weight change (weightfirst 6-year follow-up − weightbaseline) was categorized as stable (≤2.5 kg), and moderate (2.5–7.5 kg) or large (>7.5 kg) gain or loss. Dementia was diagnosed following standard criteria. Data were analyzed using Cox regression models.

Results

Over the second 6-year follow-up period, 102 incident dementia cases were identified. Compared with stable BMI, the hazard ratios (95% CI) of dementia were 2.61 (1.09−5.54) and 2.93 (1.72−4.91) for BMI gain or loss >10%, respectively. The risk of dementia was higher among APOE ɛ4 carriers experiencing a large BMI gain (9.93 [3.49−24.6]) or loss (6.66 [2.83−14.4]) than APOE ɛ4 noncarriers with stable BMI. Similar results were observed for weight change and dementia associations.

Conclusions

BMI and weight changes showed U-shaped associations with dementia risk. Large bodyweight gain and loss alike are associated with an almost 3-fold higher risk of dementia, which may be amplified by APOE ɛ4.
Development of a Novel Multidimensional Measure of Aging to Predict Mortality and Morbidity in the Prospective MJ Cohort
Authors: Wang Sicong , Wen Chi Pang , Li Wenyuan , Li Shu , Sun Mingxi , Xu Andi , Tsai Min Kuang , Chu David Ta-Wei , Tsai Shan Pou , Tu Huakang , Wu Xifeng
Published: August 2022

Background

Although biological aging has been proposed as a more accurate measure of aging, few biological aging measures have been developed for Asians, especially for young adults.

Methods

A total of 521 656 participants were enrolled in the MJ cohort (1996–2011) and were followed until death, loss-to-follow-up, or December 31, 2011, whichever came first. We selected 14 clinical biomarkers, including chronological age, using a random forest algorithm, and developed a multidimensional aging measure (MDAge). Model performance was assessed by area under the curve (AUC) and internal calibration. We evaluated the associations of MDAge and residuals from regressing MDAge on chronological age (MDAgeAccel) with mortality and morbidity, and assessed the robustness of our findings.

Results

MDAge achieved an excellent AUC of 0.892 in predicting all-cause mortality (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.889–0.894). Participants with higher MDAge at baseline were at a higher risk of death (per 5 years, hazard ration [HR] = 1.671, 95% CI: 1.662–1.680), and the association remained after controlling for other variables and in different subgroups. Furthermore, participants with higher MDAgeAccel were associated with shortened life expectancy. For instance, compared to men who were biologically younger (MDAgeAccel ≤ 0) at baseline, men in the highest tertiles of MDAgeAccel had shortened life expectancy by 17.23 years. In addition, higher MDAgeAccel was associated with having chronic disease either cross-sectionally (per 1-standard deviation [SD], odds ratio [OR] = 1.564, 95% CI: 1.552–1.575) or longitudinally (per 1-SD, OR = 1.218, 95% CI: 1.199–1.238).

Conclusion

MDAge accurately predicted mortality and morbidity, which has great potential in the early identification of individuals at higher risk and therefore promoting early intervention.
Contextual Forces Shaping Home-Based Health Care Services Between 2010 and 2020: Insights From the Social-Ecological Model and Organizational Theory
Authors: Fong Mei-Chia , Russell David , Gao Oude , Franzosa Emily
Published: August 2022

Demands for home-based care have surged alongside population aging, preferences for aging in place, policy-driven reforms incentivizing lower hospital utilization, and public concerns around coronavirus disease 2019 transmissions in institutional care settings. However, at both macro and micro levels, sociopolitical, and infrastructural contexts are not aligned with the operational needs of home health care organizations, presenting obstacles to home health care equity. We integrate the social-ecological model and organizational theory to highlight contextual forces shaping the delivery of home-based care services between 2010 and 2020. Placing home-based health care organizations at the center of observation, we discuss patterns and trends of service delivery as systematic organizational behaviors reflecting the organizations’ adaptations and responses to their surrounding forces. In this light, we consider the implications of provision and access to home care services for health equity, discuss topics that are understudied, and provide recommendations for home-based health care organizations to advance home health care equity. The article represents a synthesis of recent literature and our research and industry experiences.
On convergence of numerical solutions for the compressible MHD system with weakly divergence-free magnetic field
Authors: Li Yang , She Bangwei
Published: August 2022

We study a general convergence theory for the analysis of numerical solutions to a magnetohydrodynamic system describing the time evolution of compressible, viscous, electrically conducting fluids in space dimension $d$$(=2,3)$. First, we introduce the concept of dissipative weak (DW) solutions and prove the weak–strong uniqueness property for DW solutions, meaning a DW solution coincides with a classical solution emanating from the same initial data on the lifespan of the latter. Next, we introduce the concept of consistent approximations and prove the convergence of consistent approximations towards the DW solution, as well as the classical solution. Interpreting the consistent approximation as the energy stability and consistency of numerical solutions, we have built a nonlinear variant of the celebrated Lax equivalence theorem. Finally, as an application of this theory, we show the convergence analysis of two numerical methods.
Pancolonic Dye Spray Chromoendoscopy to Detect and Resect Ill-Defined Neoplastic Lesions in Colonic Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Dziegielewski Claudia , Gupta Sarang , McCurdy Jeffrey D , Sy Richmond , Saloojee Navaaz , Murthy Sanjay K
Published: August 2022

Background

Pancolonic dye spray chromoendoscopy (DCE) is used as an adjunct to white light endoscopy (WLE) to enhance the detection and delineation of ill-defined neoplastic (dysplastic) lesions in persons with colonic inflammatory bowel diseases (cIBD). We evaluated the utility of DCE as follow-up to high-definition WLE (HD-WLE) to “unmask” and/or facilitate endoscopic resection of neoplastic lesions.

Methods

We retrospectively studied persons with cIBD who underwent DCE as follow-up to HD-WLE between 2013 and 2020. We describe neoplastic findings and management during HD-WLE and DCE exams and report outcomes from post-DCE surveillance exams.

Results

Twenty-four persons were studied (mean age 56.7 ± 13.8 years, 50.0% male, 70.8% ulcerative colitis, mean disease duration 18.0 ± 11.0 years). Overall, 32 visible neoplastic lesions were unmasked during DCE, of which 24 were endoscopically resected. DCE facilitated the diagnosis of two cancers. Among 17 persons referred for evaluation of “invisible” neoplasia (detected in non-targeted biopsies) during HD-WLE, DCE identified neoplastic lesions at the same site in eight persons and a different site in four persons. Among seven persons referred for ill-defined visible neoplasia, DCE facilitated complete endoscopic resection in four individuals, whereas two individuals required colectomy for a diagnosis of cancer. Among 19 individuals with post-DCE surveillance, five developed new visible neoplastic lesions, including one high-grade neoplasia which was completely resected.

Conclusions

In our cohort, DCE aided in unmasking invisible neoplasia and facilitated endoscopic resection of ill-defined neoplasia, suggesting that it is a useful surveillance tool in selected persons with cIBD. Large prospective studies are needed to validate these findings.
Influence of less invasive hip preservation surgery on subsequent hip arthroplasty for osteonecrosis of the femoral head
Authors: Mo Liang , Li Jianxiong , Wang Zhangzheng , Huang Fayi , Xin Pengfei , Zhou Chi , He Wei , Liu Yuhao
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA) following less invasive hip-preserving procedures (LIHPs) and present a critical overview of the literature to aid in better result interpretation. The search time was from the establishment of the database to September 2021, and the outcome indicators were extracted and analyzed by Cochrane Collaboration Review Manager software (RevMan version 5.4). Finally, 10 articles were included in this meta-analysis by searching Chinese databases and English databases. Three of them were published in Chinese, and the remaining studies were published in English. LIHP was further divided into the tantalum rod implantation group and the non-tantalum rod implantation group. The results showed that prior tantalum rod implantation increased the difficulty of conversion to THA, which was reflected mainly in the longer operative time [weighted mean difference (WMD) = 24.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 14.09–34.91, P < 0.00001] and greater intraoperative blood loss (WMD = 114.74, 95% CI = 33.52–195.96, P = 0.006), while no significant difference was found between the non-tantalum rod implantation group and the control group. Simultaneously, easier intraoperative fracture [odds ratio (OR) = 5.88, 95% CI = 0.93–37.05, P = 0.06] and stem malalignment (OR = 4.17, 95% CI = 1.18–14.71, P = 0.03) in the LIHP group tended to be observed than in the control THA group. However, there was no significant difference in cup anteversion and inclination angle, ectopic ossification, postoperative Harris Hip Score and survivorship between the LIHP group and the control group. Although LIHP increased the difficulty of the conversion to THA, it does not detrimentally affect the clinical results of subsequent THA in the mid-term follow-up.
Tick-Borne Pathogens in Questing Blacklegged Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae) From Pike County, Pennsylvania
Authors: Schwartz Sarah , Calvente Elizabeth , Rollinson Emily , Sample Koon Koon Destiny , Chinnici Nicole
Published: August 2022

Active surveillance was conducted by collecting questing ticks from vegetation through a 2-yr survey in Pike County, Pennsylvania. Over a thousand blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis Say) and American dog ticks (Dermacentor variabilis Say) were collected. A single specimen of the following species was collected: lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum L.), rabbit tick (Haemaphysalis leporispalustris Packard), and an Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis Neumann). This study represents the largest county-wide study in Pennsylvania, surveying 988 questing I. scapularis adult and nymphs. Molecular detection of five distinct tick-borne pathogens was screened through real-time PCR at a single tick resolution. Respectively, the overall 2-yr adult and nymph prevalence were highest with Borrelia burgdorferi (Spirochaetales: Spirochaetacceae) (45.99%, 18.94%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae) (12.29%, 7.95%) where the variant-ha (8.29%, 3.03%) was overall more prevalent than the variant-v1 (2.49%, 4.17%), Babesia microti (Piroplasmida: Babesiidae) (4.97%, 5.30%), Borrelia miyamotoi (Spirochaetales: Spirochaetaceae) (1.38%, 1.89%), and Powassan virus lineage II [POWV]/deer tick virus (DTV) (2.07%, 0.76%). Adult and nymph coinfection prevalence of B. burgdorferi and B. microti (3.03%, 4.97%) and adult coinfection of B. burgdorferi and A. phagocytophilum or A. phagocytophilum and B. microti were significantly higher than the independent infection rate expected naturally. This study highlights the urgency to conduct diverse surveillance studies with large sample sizes to better understand the human risk for tick-borne diseases within small geographical areas.
Water Physicochemical Parameters and Microbial Composition Distinguish Anopheles and Culex Mosquito Breeding Sites: Potential as Ecological Markers for Larval Source Surveillance
Authors: Kinga Harriet , Kengne-Ouafo Jonas A , King Sandra A , Egyirifa Richardson K , Aboagye-Antwi Fred , Akorli Jewelna
Published: August 2022

The presence of mosquitoes in an area is dependent on the availability of suitable breeding sites that are influenced by several environmental factors. Identification of breeding habitats for vector surveillance and larval source management is key to disease control programs. We investigated water quality parameters and microbial composition in selected mosquito breeding sites in urban Accra, Ghana and associated these with abundance of Anopheles (Diptera: Culicidae) and Culex (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae. Physicochemical parameters and microbial composition explained up to 72% variance among the breeding sites and separated Anopheles and Culex habitats (P < 0.05). Anopheles and Culex abundances were commonly influenced by water temperature, pH, nitrate, and total hardness with contrasting impacts on the two mosquito species. In addition, total dissolved solids, biochemical oxygen demand, and alkalinity uniquely influenced Anopheles abundance, while total suspended solids, phosphate, sulphate, ammonium, and salinity were significant determinants for Culex. The correlation of these multiple parameters with the occurrence of each mosquito species was high (R2 = 0.99, P < 0.0001). Bacterial content assessment of the breeding ponds revealed that the most abundant bacterial phyla were Patescibacteria, Cyanobacteria, and Proteobacteria, constituting >70% of the total bacterial richness. The oligotrophic Patescibacteria was strongly associated with Anopheles suggestive of the mosquito’s adaptation to environments with less nutrients, while predominance of Cyanobacteria, indicative of rich nutritional source was associated with Culex larval ponds. We propose further evaluation of these significant abiotic and biotic parameters in field identification of larval sources and how knowledge of these can be harnessed effectively to reduce conducive breeding sites for mosquitoes.