bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical and experimental studies of energetics of the dolomite decarbonization process
Authors: Vinnichenko V I , Riazanov A N , Rakhimov R Z , Riazanov A A , Vinnichenko O V
Published: July 2021

One of the known advantages of magnesia binders is a significant reduction in energy consumption for the production of such binders compared to the production of lime and Portland cement. The theoretical costs of thermal energy for firing dolomite, which amount to 220-230 kcal/kg (for Portland cement – 420-430 kcal/kg), are almost halved under equal conditions of raw material moisture and furnace efficiency. This study examines the screening of dolomite waste and coal waste materials as raw materials for the production of dolomite cement. Coal preparation wastes in this case are both the initial raw material and, in part, can be used as fuel to ignite the raw charge. Theoretical and experimental studies of the influence of the organic component of coal waste on the process of decarbonization of dolomite have been carried out. The results of thermodynamic studies show that the participation of carbon and its gasification products in the reactions of dissociation of magnesium carbonate makes it possible to reduce the temperature of the beginning of the decomposition reaction of MgCO3 and CaCO3. The energy feasibility of obtaining dolomite binders has been theoretically substantiated.
Calculation of reinforcement to concrete adhesion in reinforced concrete elements
Authors: Romashko V M , Romashko-Maistruk O V
Published: July 2021

A model and method for calculating of reinforcement to concrete adhesion in reinforced concrete elements have been developed. The basic parameters by means of which it is possible to control interaction of reinforcement with concrete at any stage of a reinforced concrete element deformation are defined. These parameters are associated with the processes of formation and development of normal cracks. A criterion is proposed by which it is possible to determine the adhesion forces of a reinforcing rod with concrete along its conditional cylindrical surface and to estimate, thus, the degree of violation of their interaction. It is recommended to calculate the specified efforts in the simplest way: by means of average stresses of reinforcement with concrete adhesion on sites between adjacent cracks. It is statistically substantiated that the function of these stresses is nonlinear with respect to normal stresses in the reinforcement. An analytical dependence is proposed to calculate the coefficient taking into account the profile of the reinforcement (its adhesion index to concrete).
Study of a dual frequency vibration press for the formation of concrete elements
Authors: Gordienko A , Emelianenko N , Saienko L , Younis Basheer , Dobrokhodova O
Published: July 2021

The article presents the results of a study of a planetary drive dual frequency vibration press for the formation of concrete elements. Mathematical modeling of the movement of the working bodies (matrix and punch) has been carried out, analytical dependences have been obtained to determine the parameters of a vibration press. The results of the study indicate the ability to control the nature of the movement of working bodies, which expands the technological capabilities. The obtained dependences make it possible to improve the methodology for calculating the parameters of a planetary drive dual frequency vibration press.
Engaging man-made waste in the closed cycle of mining production
Authors: Gorbatyuk N , Adigamov A , Shakhov S , Kobelev O
Published: July 2021

The problems faced by the mining and construction industries are analyzed in the article. A unified concept is formulated to eliminate the problems that arise in the region of mineral extraction, together with solving the problems of expanding the raw material base of the construction sector. The idea of rational use of man-made waste from local mining enterprises and industrial waste for the construction and backfill mixes preparation is presented. The aspects of their application as an aggregate in mixtures are considered on the example of man-made waste (halite enrichment waste). It is noted that the use of man-made waste in construction and backfill mixes must be carried out after deep additional processing. Deep processing allows to maximize the use of useful components of man-made waste and eliminate the negative consequences of harmful ones. It is established that the best way of additional processing is the activation of man-made waste in disintegrators. It is proved that activation increases the strength of structures or cemented mass by 25-30%, reduces the consumption of binder by 40-50%, while maintaining the same strength characteristics. The use of man-made waste in construction and backfill mixtures expands the raw material base for the construction and mining sectors, allows to implement the concept of sustainable development of the region, and reduces the impact on the environment.
MECHANICAL LOADING SYSTEMS SAFETY PROCESSES MODELING
Authors: Savchenko Iurii , Shapoval Alexander , Kozechko Viktoriya , Voskoboynik Volodymyr , Khrebtova Oksana , Shlyk Sergii
Published: July 2021

Mechanical means which are directly related to the information support path (locators, observation stations, accompaniment, detection, localization, etc.) require special attention within the framework of the technical channels of receiving information. Their accurate and stable performance is of the utmost importance. Loss of the mechanical properties occurs during operation, that is material wear. To improve the quality of mechanisms and to ensure the stability of the radio-electronic means, the authors of the paper consider the possible mode of friction geoactivators in the friction unit parts of machines. The studies of the rubbing surfaces chemical composition after being processed by the geoactivator demonstrate that the components of the geoactivator diffuse into the surface layers of the material and form glass-crystalline layers, which are the solutions of the geoactivator components in the phase components of the surfaces steels and cast irons. The studies of mechanical properties have shown that the hardness and wear resistance of the surface layer increases and the roughness of contacting surfaces gets reduced.
Ways to increase the efficiency of detection of unmanned aerial vehicles by thermal imaging devices
Authors: Shmelov Yu M , Brusakova O V , Yakovlev R P , Petchenko M V
Published: July 2021

The possibilities to increase the efficiency of detection of air objects due to the optimized choice of a functional area of an infrared range of electromagnetic waves are mathematically estimated. It is shown that there is a need to use receivers with maximum visibility in longer wavelengths, as well as the need to work in the “transparency windows” of the atmosphere. With low visibility, long-wavelength infrared thermal imaging devices are advantageous at long distances from objects. Devices with more shortwave sensitivity can be effective over short distances. Radar detection methods in many cases are not able to detect small objects with a low reflection coefficient, which is one of the reasons for the small effective scattering area. Known methods of observation using night vision devices and thermal imaging devices, having their advantages, are also ineffective in certain conditions. An attempt is made to combine the advantages of detecting aerial objects by the multi-position radar method with the advantages of thermal imaging devices. A method of illuminating air objects with infrared searchlights is proposed, which implies the presence of many geometrically spaced sources of infrared radiation with a working spectrum combined with areas of “windows of transparency” of the atmosphere and the maximum sensitivity of the thermal imager. In such conditions, the receiver registers the total signal of thermal radiation of the object and the reflected rays of searchlights. Remote control of the spotlight emission, on which the effective scattering area depends linearly, makes it possible to bring it to the level guaranteed with a high probability of detecting a small flying object.
Limit state of a rectangular reinforced section using elastoplastic material strain diagrams
Authors: Soroka Mykola
Published: July 2021

The paper considers the methodology of constructing the strength area of a rectangular reinforced section. The notion of “section strength area” is used in the calculations of structures according to the limit equilibrium. The peculiarity of the strength region is that inside the strength region the section works in the elastic stage, and at its boundary it transits to the limit state with the possibility of unrestricted plastic deformation. The equations describing the boundary of the section’s strength region are often called yield conditions. In this paper, it is assumed that the material of which the section is made and the reinforcing material deform according to the ideal elastoplastic body law. Thus, the deformation diagrams of the materials are described by the Prandtl diagram. The material, of which the section is made, has different tensile and compressive yield strengths. The reinforcing material has the same tensile and compressive yield strengths. In deriving the equations describing the boundary of the section strength area, it was assumed that the bending moment and the longitudinal force applied in the center of the rectangle act in the section. Given that the section may have asymmetrical reinforcement, different equations are used to describe the upper and lower boundaries of the strength area. In order to construct the strength area, it is necessary to solve the optimization problem of finding the extreme value of the moment taking into account the constraints (equations and inequalities) for a given value of the longitudinal force. The analysis of results obtained in this way for a symmetrically reinforced cross-section made it possible to propose a simpler technique for constructing the strength area of a rectangular reinforced cross-section without solving the optimization problem.
Expanded clay concrete mixtures and concretes on carbonate sand propertie improvement
Authors: Stolevich I A , Kostyuk A I , Kravchenko S A , Posternak O O
Published: July 2021

Results of researches of properties of expanded clay concrete on carbonate sand, mixtures and concrete, as well as a technique for selecting optimal concrete compositions for monolithic load-bearing and enclosing structures of residential and public buildings and structures are given.
Topological approach to studying mechanochemical effects in the processes of corrosion of metals under stress
Authors: Trofimova L E
Published: July 2021

It is hereby suggested to use a topological approach based on the principles of synergetics and the theory of catastrophes to describe some aspects of the mechanochemical effect of the sign of deformation in stress corrosion phenomena. It was found that a steel plate being located in an aggressive environment and subjected to additional force impact may be informatively considered as a synergistic system. It has been established that the concept of sensitivity to imperfection can be applied to the interpretation of the deformation sign effect. It has been demonstrated that the violation of the symmetry of the sides of a bent plate is made provision for by the structure of standard models - catastrophes of the «ruffle» type. Possible scenarios for the development of mechanochemical effects are considered, taking into account Maxwell’s principles and maximum delay principles. Topological models which describe both the above-mentioned mechanochemical effect of the deformation sign at small times (within 50 s) and its reversal with time are constructed and analyzed. Further possible directions of investigation of mechanochemical effects in the processes of corrosion of metals under stress are formulated.
Study of resistance of thermomodified wood to the influence of natural conditions
Authors: Tsapko Y , Horbachova O , Mazurchuk S , Bondarenko O
Published: July 2021

It is established that thermal modification provides a decrease in the hydrophobicity of wood. Additional wood surface treatment reduces water absorption factor of 2 and modified sample at a temperature of 220°C – 3 times. Geometric and dimensional stability is improved by 2 times. The effect of heat treatment on the water absorption of wood is slightly smaller - for samples modified at 190 and 220°C for more than 10 hours – 20 %. Additionally, a 20 % deterioration in water absorption can be achieved by applying oil-wax or azure. With increasing temperature modification improves color stability to UV-rays. If the wood after termomodyfikuvannya 160°C color difference ΔE 2 times larger, 190 and 220°C – does not change. Protection after applying azure to the surface is slightly better compared to oil-wax. Thermal modification and finishing paint and varnish materials increases resistance to surface weathering. Therefore, such treatment is appropriate for the protection and aesthetic appeal of wood products.
Design of the bracket’s structures and their bracing for industrial climbers’ service of high-rise buildings with facades of solid glazing
Authors: Tvardovsky I , Chuchmai A , Kalinina T
Published: July 2021

The article presents one of the possible options for solving an urgent engineering problem of the development of special devices and their arrangement in high-rise buildings with continuous facade systems for the possibility of their service. The authors have developed a bracket design in two modifications made of metal plates, which is fastened to the end of a monolithic reinforced concrete slab at the level and along the perimeter of the eaves of the building with chemical anchors of the Hilti HVU series. The nature of the change in the stress-strain state in the plates, main pipes, and in anchor devices of the developed bracket construction was studied by calculation using the usual engineering method, as well as in the generated model in the SOFiSTiK computational and graphic complex. The results of short-term load testing of completed samples of the developed model before serial production are presented. The work of the elements of the developed structures of the brackets under the conditions of the action of an aggressive environment has been analyzed.
The impact of percentage content of basalt fiber-reinforced polymer and steel reinforcement on the strength indicators of experimental beams with hybrid reinforcement
Authors: Valovoi Alexander , Eremenko Alexander , Valovoi Maksim , Stoianovych Sergii
Published: July 2021

The use of composite reinforcement in the structures subject to bending is limited due to their excessive deformation. One way to overcome this shortcoming is to use hybrid reinforcement where steel and composite reinforcement are used in combination. The effectiveness of this approach has been proven by previous studies. There are no studies on the establishment of the effective ratio between steel and composite elements. This paper presents the results of tests of prototype beams with hybrid reinforcement made of basalt fiber-reinforced polymer (BFRP) and steel. A total of 12 series of samples of beams, three beams in each series, were studied. The percentage of both types of reinforcement was variable; it varied from a ratio of 100% / 0% to 0% / 100% in increments of ~ 20% (the numerator of the fraction corresponds to the percentage of steel reinforcement, and the denominator – to the percentage of BFRP reinforcement). According to the results of tests of beams by static loading, it was found that the use of hybrid reinforcement allowed to increase the bearing capacity of the samples by 33% – 74%, depending on the percentage of reinforcement in the cross section, compared with the beams of the control series. Based on the nature of breaks and load-bearing capacity, the most optimal ratio of steel and BFRP reinforcement was 60% – 40%. The optimal percentage of cross section reinforcement is 1.07%.
Features of passing a shock wave in a long communication passageway with walls of different rigidity
Authors: Vasilchenko A , Surianinov M , Otrosh Y , Nikitin V
Published: July 2021

The problem of attenuation of a shock wave during its propagation in long communication channels of industrial buildings or mining workings is considered. It is shown that an explosion in a channel produces a head shock wave with a plane wavefront, where the dynamic pressure significantly exceeds the pressure at fronts forming by the incident and reflected shock waves. A physical model of the formation and propagation of a shock wave in a channel with walls of different rigidity is proposed. It is shown that if one of the channel walls is movable or easily deformed, this leads to a violation of geometry of plane wavefront of the head shock wave and its weakening. The necessity of arranging pressure-relief structure in communication channels of buildings with increased explosive hazard and mine workings is grounded.
Improvement on the mechanical properties of eutectic Sn58Bi alloy with porous Cu addition during isothermal aging
Authors: Liu Yang , Ren Boqiao , Xue Yuxiong , Zhou Min , Cao Rongxing , Zeng Xianghua
Published: July 2021

A comparison of the microstructure, interfacial IMC layer, shear behavior and hardness of the Sn58Bi, SnBi@110P-Cu/Cu and SnBi@500P-Cu/Cu solder joints was carried out during isothermal aging in this study. Experimental results reveal that the regions enclosed by Cu frames in SnBi@110P-Cu/Cu exhibit more refined microstructure and higher hardness before and after aging. In contrast, the hardness of the aged SnBi@500P-Cu solder bulk is closer to the SnBi eutectic solder due to their similar microstructure. With the aging time prolonging, β-Sn and Bi-rich phases do not only coarsen in solder joints, but also lead to the rise of the thickness of the interfacial IMC layers. The addition of porous Cu can suppress the formation of voids at the soldering interface and improves the shear strength of the SnBi/Cu solder joints during the aging process. The shear strength of the SnBi@500P-Cu/Cu solder joint is higher than the other two before and after aging.
Halogen vacancy migration at surfaces of CsPbBr3 perovskites: insights from density functional theory
Authors: Biega R-I , Leppert L
Published: July 2021

Migration of halogen vacancies is one of the primary sources of phase segregation and material degradation in lead-halide perovskites. Here we use first principles density functional theory to compare migration energy barriers and paths of bromine vacancies in the bulk and at a (001) surface of cubic CsPbBr3. Our calculations indicate that surfaces might facilitate bromine vacancy migration in these perovskites, due to their soft structure that allows for bond lengths variations larger than in the bulk. We calculate the migration energy for axial-to-axial bromine vacancy migration at the surface to be only half of the value in the bulk. Furthermore, we study the effect of modifying the surface with four different alkali halide monolayers, finding an increase of the migration barrier to almost the bulk value for the NaCl-passivated system. Migration energies are found to be correlated to the lattice mismatch between the CsPbBr3 surface and the alkali halide monolayer. Our calculations suggest that surfaces might play a significant role in mediating vacancy migration in halide perovskites, a result with relevance for perovskite nanocrystals with large surface-to-volume ratios. Moreover, we propose viable ways for suppressing this undesirable process through passivation with alkali halide salts.
On the stability of log-rank test under labeling errors
Authors: Galili Ben , Samohi Anat , Yakhini Zohar
Published: July 2021

Motivation

Log-rank test is a widely used test that serves to assess the statistical significance of observed differences in survival, when comparing two or more groups. The log-rank test is based on several assumptions that support the validity of the calculations. It is naturally assumed, implicitly, that no errors occur in the labeling of the samples. That is, the mapping between samples and groups is perfectly correct. In this work, we investigate how test results may be affected when considering some errors in the original labeling.

Results

We introduce and define the uncertainty that arises from labeling errors in log-rank test. In order to deal with this uncertainty, we develop a novel algorithm for efficiently calculating a stability interval around the original log-rank P-value and prove its correctness. We demonstrate our algorithm on several datasets.

Availability and implementation

We provide a Python implementation, called LoRSI, for calculating the stability interval using our algorithm https://github.com/YakhiniGroup/LoRSI.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
HieRFIT: a hierarchical cell type classification tool for projections from complex single-cell atlas datasets
Authors: Kaymaz Yasin , Ganglberger Florian , Tang Ming , Haslinger Christian , Fernandez-Albert Francesc , Lawless Nathan , Sackton Timothy B
Published: July 2021

Motivation

The emergence of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has led to an explosion in novel methods to study biological variation among individual cells, and to classify cells into functional and biologically meaningful categories.

Results

Here, we present a new cell type projection tool, Hierarchical Random Forest for Information Transfer (HieRFIT), based on hierarchical random forests. HieRFIT uses a priori information about cell type relationships to improve classification accuracy, taking as input a hierarchical tree structure representing the class relationships, along with the reference data. We use an ensemble approach combining multiple random forest models, organized in a hierarchical decision tree structure. We show that our hierarchical classification approach improves accuracy and reduces incorrect predictions especially for inter-dataset tasks which reflect real-life applications. We use a scoring scheme that adjusts probability distributions for candidate class labels and resolves uncertainties while avoiding the assignment of cells to incorrect types by labeling cells at internal nodes of the hierarchy when necessary.

Availability and implementation

HieRFIT is implemented as an R package, and it is available at (https://github.com/yasinkaymaz/HieRFIT/releases/tag/v1.0.0).

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Optimization and biological validation of an in vitro assay using the transfected Dm28c/pLacZ Trypanosoma cruzi strain
Authors: Gulin Julián Ernesto Nicolás , Rocco Daniela Marisa , Alonso Victoria , Cribb Pamela , Altcheh Jaime , García-Bournissen Facundo
Published: July 2021

There is an urgent need to develop safer and more effective drugs for Chagas disease, as the current treatment relies on benznidazole (BZ) and nifurtimox (NFX). Using the Trypanosoma cruzi Dm28c strain genetically engineered to express the Escherichia coli β-galactosidase gene, lacZ, we have adapted and validated an easy, quick and reliable in vitro assay suitable for high-throughput screening for candidate compounds with anti-T. cruzi activity. In vitro studies were conducted to determine trypomastigotes sensitivity to BZ and NFX from Dm28c/pLacZ strain by comparing the conventional labour-intensive microscopy counting method with the colourimetric assay. Drug concentrations producing the lysis of 50% of trypomastigotes (lytic concentration 50%) were 41.36 and 17.99 µM for BZ and NFX, respectively, when measured by microscopy and 44.74 and 38.94 µM, for the colourimetric method, respectively. The optimal conditions for the amastigote development inhibitory assay were established considering the parasite–host relationship (i.e. multiplicity of infection) and interaction time, the time for colourimetric readout and the incubation time with the β-galactosidase substrate. The drug concentrations resulting in 50% amastigote development inhibition obtained with the colourimetric assay were 2.31 µM for BZ and 0.97 µM for NFX, similar to the reported values for the Dm28c wild strain (2.80 and 1.5 µM, respectively). In summary, a colourimetric assay using the Dm28c/pLacZ strain of T. cruzi has been set up, obtaining biologically meaningful sensibility values with the reference compounds on both trypomastigotes and amastigotes forms. This development could be applied to high-throughput screening programmes aiming to identify compounds with anti-T. cruzi in vitro activity.
Impact of age on the outcomes of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation: analysis using inverse probability of treatment weighting
Authors: Kim Young Su , Cho Yang Hyun , Yang Jeong Hoon , Yang Ji-Hyuk , Chung Suryeun , Suh Gee Young , Sung Kiick
Published: July 2021

OBJECTIVES

Patient selection is crucial to improving the outcomes of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR). However, ECPR’s efficacy with older patients remains unknown.

METHODS

We reviewed patients who underwent extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for refractory cardiac arrest from January 2006 to December 2018. Exclusion criteria were age <18 years, cannulation failure and ECMO applied at another hospital. We divided patients into 2 groups with an age cut-off of 66 years, using the Contal and O’Quigley method for overall survival. We performed inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) between the 2 groups and set the primary outcome as overall survival.

RESULTS

We included 318 patients in our study (≤66 years, n = 199; >66 years, n = 119). Before IPTW, we observed that the older group had a higher frequency of diabetes, hypertension, and myocardial infarction. In the young group, more patients had out-of-hospital cardiac arrest as compared with the older group. The hospital mortality rate was 55% (48.7% in the young group, 65.5% in the older group; P = 0.004). In the multivariable analysis after IPTW, the older group showed worse outcomes in overall survival [hazard ratio (HR) = 2.02; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.50–2.70; P < 0.001] and neurological outcomes at discharge (odds ratio = 2.95; 95% CI, 1.69–5.14; P = <0.001). ECMO insertion during catheterization (HR = 0.57; 95% CI, 0.36–0.90; P = 0.015) and recovery of spontaneous circulation before pump-on (HR = 0.67; 95% CI, 0.50–0.89; P = 0.007) were positive predictors, but initial asystole rhythm, non-cardiac cause (HR = 2.39; 95% CI, 1.59–3.61; P < 0.001), out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (HR = 1.86; 95% CI, 1.24–2.79; P = 0.003) and prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation to pump-on time (HR = 1.01; 95% CI, 1.01–1.02; P < 0.001) were negative predictors for overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Older patients who had ECPR had significantly worse survival and neurological outcomes. For patients older than age 66 years, more careful patient selection is critically important for improving the efficacy of ECPR.
Teaching bacterial infections in pharmaceutical studies: why not ‘with students’ instead of ‘to students’?
Authors: Eveillard Matthieu , Baglin Isabelle , Legeay Samuel
Published: July 2021

In pharmaceutical studies, a course of bacteriology based on case studies provided by the teacher was transformed in a course based on a combination of student/teacher co-creation of cases and peer reviewing. Our objectives were to describe the perception of students about the new format and to assess the impact of changing on the learning outcomes. For teaching evaluation, we used a questionnaire and focus groups. The assessment of learning outcome was performed by comparing the students’ scores in final tests with the previous and the revised course formats. The students embraced the creation of cases in small groups with the teacher. In addition, they reported a perception of weakened hierarchy between the teacher and themselves, an increase of their self-confidence and a better ability to transfer their learning to their professional activities in community pharmacies. Lastly, their opinion about the transferability of this format in other disciplines were divided.
Multiple functions of flagellar motility and chemotaxis in bacterial physiology
Authors: Colin Remy , Ni Bin , Laganenka Leanid , Sourjik Victor
Published: July 2021

Most swimming bacteria are capable of following gradients of nutrients, signaling molecules and other environmental factors that affect bacterial physiology. This tactic behavior became one of the most-studied model systems for signal transduction and quantitative biology, and underlying molecular mechanisms are well characterized in Escherichia coli and several other model bacteria. In this review, we focus primarily on less understood aspect of bacterial chemotaxis, namely its physiological relevance for individual bacterial cells and for bacterial populations. As evident from multiple recent studies, even for the same bacterial species flagellar motility and chemotaxis might serve multiple roles, depending on the physiological and environmental conditions. Among these, finding sources of nutrients and more generally locating niches that are optimal for growth appear to be one of the major functions of bacterial chemotaxis, which could explain many chemoeffector preferences as well as flagellar gene regulation. Chemotaxis might also generally enhance efficiency of environmental colonization by motile bacteria, which involves intricate interplay between individual and collective behaviors and trade-offs between growth and motility. Finally, motility and chemotaxis play multiple roles in collective behaviors of bacteria including swarming, biofilm formation and autoaggregation, as well as in their interactions with animal and plant hosts.
Characteristics of superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinomas undetectable with narrow-band imaging endoscopy
Authors: Ono Shingo , Dobashi Akira , Furuhashi Hiroto , Koizumi Akio , Matsui Hiroaki , Hara Yuko , Sumiyama Kazuki
Published: July 2021

Background

The detection rate of narrow-band imaging (NBI) for superficial esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (SESCC), including high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia, is significantly higher than that of white-light endoscopy. However, there are SESCCs that are undetectable by NBI but detectable by Lugol chromoendoscopy (LCE) and the characteristics of these SESCCs are still unknown. Thus, this study aimed to clarify the characteristics of SESCC that are undetectable using NBI.

Methods

Patients with current SCC or a history of SCC in the head and neck or in the esophagus were enrolled. The inspection of the esophagus was initiated by NBI, followed by LCE. Biopsies were taken of all suspected SESCC lesions during NBI observation and Lugol-voiding lesions (LVLs) that were irregularly shaped and >5 mm and/or pink in color during LCE observation. The characteristics of SESCC that were undetectable with NBI were statistically analysed.

Results

Overall, 147 lesions in 105 cases were histologically diagnosed as SESCC. Twenty in 15 cases were NBI-undetectable lesions, all of which were macroscopic flat type (0-IIb). The median sizes of the NBI-undetectable lesions and NBI-detectable lesions were both 15 mm (P = 0.47). Multivariate analysis revealed independent factors for NBI-undetectable lesions such as numerous irregularly shaped LVLs (odds ratio [OR]: 4.94, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.39–17.5, P < 0.05) and anterior wall position (OR: 4.99, 95% CI: 1.58–15.8, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The detection of SESCCs with NBI is challenging when lesions are morphologically completely flat, in cases with numerous irregularly shaped LVLs, and if located at the anterior wall.
Endogenous galectin-3 is required for skeletal muscle repair
Authors: Cerri Daniel Giuliano , Rodrigues Lilian Cataldi , Alves Vani Maria , Machado Juliano , Bastos Víctor Alexandre Félix , Carmo Kettelhut Isis do , Alberici Luciane Carla , Costa Maria Cristina R , Stowell Sean R , Cummings Richard D , Dias-Baruffi Marcelo
Published: July 2021

Skeletal muscle has the intrinsic ability to self-repair through a multifactorial process, but many aspects of its cellular and molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. There is increasing evidence that some members of the mammalian β-galactoside-binding protein family (galectins) are involved in the muscular repair process (MRP), including galectin-3 (Gal-3). However, there are many questions about the role of this protein on muscle self-repair. Here, we demonstrate that endogenous Gal-3 is required for: (i) muscle repair in vivo by using a chloride-barium myolesion mouse model and (ii) mouse primary myoblasts myogenic programming. Injured muscle from Gal-3 knockout mice (GAL3KO) showed persistent inflammation associated with compromised muscle repair and the formation of fibrotic tissue on the lesion site. In GAL3KO mice, osteopontin expression remained high even after 7 and 14 d of the myolesion, while Myoblast differentiation transcription factor (MyoD) and myogenin had decreased their expression. In GAL3KO mouse primary myoblast cell culture, Paired Box 7 (Pax7) detection seems to sustain even when cells are stimulated to differentiation and MyoD expression is drastically reduced. The detection and temporal expression levels of these transcriptional factors appear to be altered in Gal-3-deficient myoblast. Gal-3 expression in wild-type mice for GAL3KO states, both in vivo and in vitro, in sarcoplasm/cytoplasm and myonuclei; as differentiation proceeds, Gal-3 expression is drastically reduced, and its location is confined to the sarcolemma/plasma cell membrane. We also observed a change in the temporal–spatial profile of Gal-3 expression and muscle transcription factors levels during the myolesion. Overall, these results demonstrate that endogenous Gal-3 is required for the skeletal muscle repair process.
Temperature Sensitivity After Burn Injury: A Burn Model System National Database Hot Topic
Authors: Oh Jamie , Madison Christopher , Flott Grace , Brownson Elisha G , Sibbett Stephen , Seek Carolina , Carrougher Gretchen J , Ryan Colleen M , Kowalske Karen , Gibran Nicole S , Stewart Barclay T
Published: July 2021

People living with burn injury often report temperature sensitivity. However, its epidemiology and associations with health-related quality of life (HRQOL) are unknown. We aimed to characterize temperature sensitivity and determine its impact on HRQOL to inform patient education after recovery from burn injury. We used the multicenter, longitudinal Burn Model System National Database to assess temperature sensitivity at 6, 12, and 24 months after burn injury. Chi-square and Kruskal–Wallis tests determined differences in patient and injury characteristics. Multivariable, multilevel generalized linear regression models determined the association of temperature sensitivity with Satisfaction with Life (SWL) scale scores and Veterans RAND 12 (VR-12) physical and mental health summary component (MCS) scores. The cohort comprised 637 participants. Two thirds (66%) experienced temperature sensitivity. They had larger burns (12% TBSA, interquartile range [IQR] 4–30 vs 5% TBSA, IQR 2–15; P < .0001), required more grafting (5% TBSA, IQR 1–19 vs 2% TBSA, IQR 0–6; P < .0001), and had higher intensity of pruritus at discharge (11% severe vs 5% severe; P = .002). After adjusting for confounding variables, temperature sensitivity was strongly associated with lower SWL (odds ratio [OR] −3.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] −5.2, −1.1) and MCS (OR −4.0, 95% CI −6.9, −1.2) at 6 months. Temperature sensitivity decreased over time (43% at discharge, 4% at 24 months) and was not associated with poorer HRQOL at 12 and 24 months. Temperature sensitivity is common after burn injury and associated with worse SWL and MCS during the first year after injury. However, temperature sensitivity seems to improve and be less intrusive over time.
The Patient’s Perspective: Burn Reconstructive Surgery During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Won Paul , Celie Karel-Bart , Perez Violeta , Gillenwater T Justin , Yenikomshian Haig A
Published: July 2021

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, hospital systems delayed or halted elective surgeries and outpatient care, profoundly disrupting reconstructive burn treatment ranging from surgery to postoperative therapy. This study aims to characterize burn patients’ perspectives on reconstructive surgery during COVID-19. A 12-component questionnaire to burn patients awaiting reconstructive surgery at a single ABA-verified Burn Center was administered. Responses regarding willingness to undergo reconstruction, perceived medical and personal impacts of COVID-19, and perspectives on telehealth were gathered. Surveys were administered to patients/caregivers over the phone in English and Spanish. Inclusion criteria consisted of burn patients who had elective reconstructive surgeries delayed or canceled as a result of the pandemic. Fifty-one patients met our inclusion criteria. Of those, 23 patients responded to our survey (45%). Average patient age was 23, 43% were male, and a majority (52%) were pediatric. Twenty-two (96%) patients were willing to undergo reconstruction during the COVID-19 pandemic, despite a perceived increased risk. Forty-three percentage of patients disagreed or strongly disagreed that telehealth adequately enabled communication with their burn care provider. Seventy-eight percentage of patients agreed or strongly agreed that they felt more susceptible to COVID-19 as burn patients. Eighty-three percentage of patients agreed or strongly agreed that the COVID-19 pandemic had created stressors specifically related to their burn care. The majority of patients expressed a strong desire to return to surgical and therapeutic care delayed by COVID-19. Patients reported feeling especially vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic as burn patients and cited difficulty obtaining care and financial stressors as the main causes.
Coleridge and Newman: Four Aspects
Authors: Insausti Gabriel
Published: July 2021

The influence of Coleridge on Newman has often been cited, but it has also been disputed. Newman himself sometimes denied it or simply expressed his surprise at the ‘coincidences’. In this article I focus on different aspects of Newman’s thought where such influence is apparent: the idea of a ‘sacramental system’, the Church of England as a via media, the theory of development in dogma, and the self. Newman’s mixed feelings about Coleridge are also analysed and an explanation for these is provided.
Evaluation of a procaspase-3 activator with hydroxyurea or temozolomide against high-grade meningioma in cell culture and canine cancer patients
Authors: Tonogai Emily J , Huang Shan , Botham Rachel C , Berry Matthew R , Joslyn Stephen K , Daniel Gregory B , Chen Zixin , Rao Jianghong , Zhang Xiang , Basuli Falguni , Rossmeisl John H , Riggins Gregory J , LeBlanc Amy K , Fan Timothy M , Hergenrother Paul J
Published: July 2021

Background

High-grade meningioma is an aggressive type of brain cancer that is often recalcitrant to surgery and radiotherapy, leading to poor overall survival. Currently, there are no FDA-approved drugs for meningioma, highlighting the need for new therapeutic options, but development is challenging due to the lack of predictive preclinical models.

Methods

To leverage the known overexpression of procaspase-3 in meningioma, PAC-1, a blood-brain barrier penetrant procaspase-3 activator, was evaluated for its ability to induce apoptosis in meningioma cells. To enhance the effects of PAC-1, combinations with either hydroxyurea or temozolomide were explored in cell culture. Both combinations were further investigated in small groups of canine meningioma patients and assessed by MRI, and the novel apoptosis tracer, [18F]C-SNAT4, was evaluated in patients treated with PAC-1 + HU.

Results

In meningioma cell lines in culture, PAC-1 + HU are synergistic while PAC-1 + TMZ show additive-to-synergistic effects. In canine meningioma patients, PAC-1 + HU led to stabilization of disease and no change in apoptosis within the tumor, whereas PAC-1 + TMZ reduced tumor burden in all three canine patients treated.

Conclusions

Our results suggest PAC-1 + TMZ as a potentially efficacious combination for the treatment of human meningioma, and also demonstrate the utility of including pet dogs with meningioma as a means to assess anticancer strategies for this common brain tumor.
Institutions and macroeconomic performance: core versus periphery countries in the Eurozone
Authors: Christou Tryfonas , Philippopoulos Apostolis , Vassilatos Vanghelis
Published: July 2021

We incorporate institutions into a neoclassical growth model so as to account for macroeconomic differences, as in the data, in 12 Eurozone countries. Modelling institutions in a generic way, we assume that weak institutions are reflected in ill-enforced property rights. When we calibrate and solve the model for each country separately, our results are: (i) including weak institutions helps the model vis-à-vis the data more in the periphery than in the core of the Eurozone; (ii) institutional failures, and their adverse effects on incentives, are worse in the periphery countries and this contributes in explaining lower long-term growth and higher output volatility in these countries; (iii) the same shock affects different countries differently depending on their institutional structure and the mix of fiscal policies; and (iv) counterfactual scenarios imply that periphery countries with weak institutions could gain a lot had their institutional quality been like that in the core.
Safety of Tedizolid as Suppressive Antimicrobial Therapy for Patients With Complex Implant-Associated Bone and Joint Infection due to Multidrug-Resistant Gram-Positive Pathogens: Results From the TediSAT Cohort Study
Authors: Ferry Tristan , Conrad Anne , Senneville Eric , Roux Sandrine , Dupieux-Chabert Céline , Dinh Aurélien , Lustig Sébastien , Goutelle Sylvain , Briot Thomas , Pham Truong-Thanh , Valour Florent
Published: July 2021

A prospective cohort study was conducted to evaluate long-term safety of tedizolid as suppressive antimicrobial treatment in patients with implant-associated bone and joint infection caused by multidrug-resistant gram-positive pathogens. Seventeen patients received tedizolid with a median duration of treatment of 6 months. No patients developed a serious adverse event.
New developments in ankylosing spondylitis—status in 2021
Authors: Klavdianou Kalliopi , Tsiami Styliani , Baraliakos Xenofon
Published: July 2021

Axial SpA (axSpA) is a common rheumatic disease characterized by inflammation leading to bone formation and functional impairment. TNF-α and IL-17 represent established targets in axSpA. TNF-α and IL-17 inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials and are currently approved biologic DMARDs for all subsets of the disease. Several lines of evidence implicate a role of an IL-23–IL-17 axis in the disease pathogenesis. In this light, and given the success of IL-17 blockade in axSpA, a similar good response to IL-23 was anticipated. Nevertheless, two clinical trials of anti-IL-23 monoclonal antibodies in axSpA have clearly exhibited negative results. This failure has raised theories for a degree of IL-23 independent pathway. The Janus kinase (JAK) pathway is also a potential therapeutic target, since several cytokines, including those involved in the IL-23–IL-17 axis, signal through the JAK family of tyrosine kinases. Further studies and more extended evaluation of response to cytokine inhibition across different tissues will be required to improve our understanding of SpA pathogenesis and determine its optimal management.
A novel MTPA and flux weakening method of stator flux oriented control of PMSM
Authors: Wen Yuliang , Zheng Hanfeng , Yang Fang , Zeng Xiaofan
Published: July 2021

Permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) has the advantages of high efficiency, high power density and high reliability. It has been widely used in electric vehicles, rail transit, industrial transmission and other fields. Compared with the traditional PMSM control strategy, the Indirect stator-quantities control (ISC) of low torque ripple induction motor has high dynamic response performance in the whole speed range, with high stability and strong security. However, due to the inherent characteristics of PMSM, there are still some difficulties in applying ISC strategy, such as solving the load angle corresponding to the current torque, realizing the maximum torque per ampere (MTPA) control and flux weakening control method in the stator field oriented control algorithm of PMSM. In this paper, theoretical analysis and discussion are carried out for the above difficulties, and an indirect stator vector control (ISC) method for PMSM is proposed. Finally, combined with the electric drive application platform of electric vehicle, the simulation and experimental results verify that the proposed ISC control strategy of PMSM also has good dynamic and steady-state performance in the whole speed range.
Rahnella laticis sp. nov. and Rahnella contaminans sp. nov., and emended description of the genus Rahnella
Authors: Jeon Dabin , Kim In Seop , Lee Soon Dong
Published: July 2021

Taxonomic positions of six isolates, which were recovered from two different environments in Jeju, Republic of Korea, were examined by a polyphasic analysis. Cells of the isolates were Gram-reaction-negative, facultatively anaerobic, motile and rod-shaped and showed growth at 4–30 °C, pH 4.0–9.0 and with 0–6 (w/v) NaCl. In phylogenomic analysis based on 92 single-copy core genes, it was shown that the isolates belonged to the genusRahnellaand formed three distinct sublines within the genus. The isolates shared 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities of 97.9–100 % with one another. The isolates contained ubiquinone-8 was as the major isoprenoid quinone. The major polar lipids were phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and an unidentified aminophospholipid. The predominant fatty acids were C16 : 0and C17 : 0cyclo. The G+C content of their genomic DNA was 52.8–53.1 %. Average nucleotide identity and digital DNA–DNA hybridization values supported that strains SAP-17Tand Lac-M11Trepresented two new species of the genusRahnella, whereas strain SAP-10 was a strain ofRahnella victoriana. Based on the results obtained here,Rahnella laticissp. nov. (type strain SAP-17T=KCTC 72960T=NBRC 114723T=CCM 9079T) andRahnella contaminanssp. nov. (type strain Lac-M11T=KACC 21743T=NBRC 114406T) are proposed. Also, an emended description of the genusRahnellais given on the basis of our physiological and chemotaxonomic results.