bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of α+β phase rolling and aging treatment on laminated bimodal structure in high temperature titanium alloy
Authors: Hu J F , Qi P , Yin J M , Hou X K , Li B L , Wen S P , Wei W , Nie Z R
Published: November 2023

In this work, we have prepared a novel laminated bimodal structure with layer-by-layer distribution of αp and αs phase in high temperature titanium alloy by α+β phase rolling and aging treatment. The lamellar bimodal microstructure is comprised of long-primary αp and secondary αs phase in the Ti-6.0Al-3Sn-5Zr-0.5Mo-1.0Nb-1.0Ta-0.4Si-0.2Er alloy. During α+β phase rolling at 990 °C, the primary αp grain deformed to elongated layer structure, while the lamella secondary αs deformed to kinked and broken chaos morphology. After 800 °C for 1h stabilization and 700 °C for 5h aging treatment, the thickness of the elongated αp layer slightly grew, while the kinked and broken αs were recovered and partially recrystallized to form a layered fine grain structure. The lamellar bimodal microstructure, i.e., elongated primary αp with layered bimodal αs phase has enhanced strength and ductility of the high temperature titanium alloy. This enhanced strength and toughness is mainly attributed to the lamellae αp structure and layered fine αs grain formed by hot rolling and aging treatment.
The influence of deformation texture on nucleation and growth of cube grains in aluminium
Authors: Paul H , Miszczyk M M , Puchlerska S , Mania I
Published: November 2023

The influence of deformation texture on the initial stages of recrystallization of deformed pure Al single crystals and commercial AA1050 alloy were characterized. To precisely quantify the orientation relationship between nuclei and simple deformation structures, single crystalline samples of stable Br(110) [1-1-2] and semi-stable S’(234) [20-28 11] orientations, were plane strain compressed (PSC) to 40% to develop a dominant homogeneous microstructure composed of two sets of microbands. The samples were then lightly annealed to reach the initial stage of primary recrystallization. The results on single crystals were related to the behaviour of the polycrystalline samples in state after hot-rolling then PSC to the same degree and lightly annealed. SEM/EBSD analyses of single crystalline samples demonstrate that the orientations of recrystallized grains are limited to a certain number of orientation groups. However, the orientations of the as-deformed state are not retained in the orientations of new grains. Deformed samples with Br orientation do not show the formation of cube grains during recrystallization, whereas strong nucleation of cube-oriented grains is observed in homogeneously and heterogeneously deformed areas in the semi-stable S’ orientation, despite the cube-oriented nuclei not present in the as-deformed structure. The recrystallization texture components of the AA1050 alloy were related to the standard β-fibre texture formed during the previous cold deformation. Cube grains formed intensively in PSC polycrystalline samples, primarily in association with as-deformed areas with near four variants of S(124) [21-1] and S’ orientations and were characterized by local misorientations around the <111> axes.
Obtaining synergy of strength and ductility in low-density steel via two-step annealing treatment
Authors: Li Tianyi , Hu Qiwen , Ma Guoqiang , Liu Wenyue , Wu Guilin , Mao Xinping
Published: November 2023

Adding light elements such as Mn and Al to steels can significantly reduce the density and obtain good strength-ductility of steels, making it a suitable choice for the development of lightweight materials. In this study, the microstructure and mechanical properties of Fe-30Mn-10Al-1C low density steel after cold rolling and annealing heat treatment were investigated. The results demonstrated that nano-sized κ-carbides are unevenly precipitated during the low temperature (500 °C) annealing process, which pin austenite grain boundaries and restrain the growth of austenite grains during the subsequent high temperature (900 °C) annealing process. As a consequence, the two-step annealed sample exhibits a fine and heterogeneous grain structure, leading to improvements of approximately 30 MPa in the yield strength to 752 MPa while keeping almost the same uniform elongation. Compared to the one step annealed sample (900 °C annealed for 3 minutes), the two-step annealed sample can achieve a high strength-ductility product (58 GPa·%) and an excellent impact toughness (128 J/cm2 at -40 °C).
Dynamic recrystallization behavior of a newly developed Ni-Fe based superalloy during hot deformation
Authors: Liu Peng , Yan Jingbo , Lu Jintao , Li Pei , Li Limin , Zhang Peng , Zhou Yongli , Huang Jinyang , Chen Biqiang , Yang Zhen , Dang Yingying , Yin Hongfei , Yuan Yong
Published: November 2023

The dynamic recrystallization (DRX) behavior of a newly developed Ni-Fe based superalloy was investigated by isothermal compression tests performed at a wide temperature range of 950 to 1200 °C with a strain rate range from 0.01 to 10 s−1 under a true strain of 0.916. The electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) technique was employed to investigate the effect of strain rate and temperature on the microstructure evolution. The results revealed that the size and volume fraction of DRX grains increased with increasing the temperature. The volume fraction of DRX grains first decreased and then increased with increasing the strain rate during the hot deformation. The preferred orientation of the overall grains changed from <001>//CD to <110>//CD with increasing the strain rate during the deformation at 950 °C, while the preferred orientation of overall grains consistently maintained as <001>//CD during the deformation at 1200 °C. DDRX was the dominant mechanism during the deformation, while CDRX was proved to be an assistant mechanism and was promoted with increasing the strain rate.
Influences of alloying composition and cooling rate on precipitation behaviors of primary Al3Zr-D023 intermetallics in Al-Mg-Li-Zr alloys
Authors: Liu Tao , Jiang Huixue , Wang Bin , Chen Huabiao , Wu Daoxiang , Luo Haiyun , Yang Rongdong , Lin Lin
Published: November 2023

In the industrial process, the potential benefit of Al3Zr precipitates is usually weakened because coarse Al3Zr precipitates have no positive effect on the dynamic recovery, recrystallization and grain growth. Effects of alloying composition and cooling rate on precipitation and growth behaviors of primary Al3Zr-D023 intermetallics were investigated, especially in a large compositional space. Four types of elements exist in the Al3Zr-D023 phase. Increasing initial Mg, Li, Zr, and Ti contents is beneficial to increase the start precipitation temperature of Al3Zr-D023 particles. Increasing initial Mg, Li, Zr, Ti contents and reducing cooling rate are beneficial to increase the mean length, decrease the nucleation rate and the number density of Al3Zr-D023 precipitates. Furthermore, Zr and Ti element contents show a strong positive correlation with the start precipitation temperature and the final length of Al3Zr-D023 precipitates. Reducing slightly initial Ti content is beneficial to reduce the final length of Al3Zr-D023 precipitates. Furthermore, two empirical equations were obtained using the multiple linear regression method, which reveal the complex interactions rather than single-element effect of Mg, Li, Zr, and Ti.
Artifacts of particle stimulated nucleation in 2D and 3D—a numerical analysis
Authors: Knipschildt E F F , Zhang Y B , Yu T , Lei X , Sanders R E , Jensen D Juul
Published: November 2023

Particle stimulated nucleation is considered to be the dominating nucleation mechanism in many general industrially relevant metallic alloys undergoing thermomechanical processing. In metallography, nuclei are typically defined as particle stimulated if they touch or are close to a second phase particle. In the present work, we numerically investigate how much miscategorisation there can be in this type of analysis. This is done by finding how many nuclei that statistically are next to a particle if all the nuclei and particles are randomly distributed in space. Furthermore, as particle stimulated nucleation is typically quantified by 2D experimental methodologies, it is additionally analysed if an area can correctly quantify the effect of the nucleation mechanism in a bulk sample.
Simulating the kinetics of recrystallization in Aluminum alloys
Authors: Sidor J J , Chakravarty P , Bátorfi J Gy
Published: November 2023

This contribution presents a brief overview of the simulation of recrystallization kinetics in metals. The study focuses on the annealing phenomena in a single-phase 1050 aluminum alloy of technical purity. To reveal the true nature of recrystallization, the kinetics is discussed by the well-establishes Johnson–Mehl–Avrami–Kolmogorov (JMAK) approach, while the constants of this model are related to the energy stored during deformation, nucleation rate, velocity of grain boundary, and grain boundary energy. The listed physical quantities are derived from different models, while the performance of the combined approach was tested for the cases where the diversity of driving forces for recrystallization was ensured by different straining levels. The softening of the material during annealing was evaluated by the microhardness. It was shown that the kinetics of recrystallization is strongly influenced by the stored energy and the process can be simulated by employing the JMAK equation.
Recrystallization and grain growth in single tungsten fiber-reinforced tungsten composites
Authors: Wartacz D A H , Riesch J , Pantleon K , Pantleon W
Published: November 2023

High heat fluxes in future fusion reactors pose big challenges on the materials of plasma-facing components due to restoration processes occurring at high temperatures. Tungsten is considered most suitable as plasma-facing material. To overcome its inherent brittleness at low temperatures, tungsten fiber-reinforced tungsten composites are developed which contain ductile, potassium-doped, drawn tungsten wires in an undeformed tungsten matrix. Such composites show pseudo-ductile behavior, an improved toughness and a more controlled fracture compared to undeformed tungsten. Model systems containing a single fiber either without any interlayer or with an yttria interlayer between fiber and matrix are annealed and characterized by electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) in order to investigate their thermal stability. The restoration process in wire and matrix differ from each other: Recrystallization followed by grain growth occurs in the deformation structure of the wire. Grain growth is the sole mechanism affecting the undeformed matrix. An yttria interlayer between fiber and matrix is supposed to separate the differently restoring microstructures from each other and thereby preserve the improved mechanical properties of the composite. The investigation focuses on characterizing the as-processed condition and the microstructural changes after annealing at 1450 °C for either four days or two weeks. After two weeks of annealing, grains in the region or the vicinity of the wire have coarsened so much that former fiber and matrix cannot be distinguished any longer; not even in a model composite with a 1 μm thick yttria interlayer.
MultAtt-RippleNet: Multi-attribute and Knowledge-based Attention Fusion Recommendation Model
Authors: Chen Hongwei , Li Qigang
Published: November 2023

RippleNet model is mainly through the joint training of knowledge graph and recommendation algorithm. In the recommendation system used this model, the effect is good but ignored the relevance of the semantics of each jump entity in the knowledge graph. The user of different degrees of relationship preference has not been taken into account, so a new model MultAtt-RippleNet is proposed. In the new model, we fuse the user’s preference weights for the relationship with the knowledge-aware weights to obtain more accurate and add realistic user preference weights to the ripple. The experimental results show that the highest performance of the MultAtt-Ripple model has increased to 92.67% for AUC and 85.90% for ACC, and the overall model has improved significantly, solving the problem that the generalization ability and accuracy of the model are not very high.
Falling Behavior Detection System for Elevator Passengers Based on Deep Learning and Edge Computing
Authors: Chen Yuxuan , Zhao Qianyou , Fan Qi , Huang Xu , Wu Feifan , Qi Jin
Published: November 2023

Due to factors such as dense populations and narrow viewing angles, previous deep-learning models for detecting passenger behavior in elevators often lack effectiveness. Traditional cloud-based data transmission methods have issues with high latency, high resource usage, and privacy threats, particularly during periods of high usage. To address these issues, we proposed a falling behavior detection system for elevator passengers based on deep learning and edge computing. A two-stream neural network model improved by 3D ResNet is presented, which utilizes edge computing for elevator passenger fall detection. Our homemade dataset of elevator passenger falling behavior is utilized to train and evaluate the system. The results demonstrate that the system is effective in detecting passengers’ falling behavior in elevators, with an average accuracy of 89.2%. The feasibility of the system in an elevator is also verified, and it has performed well. The application of this system in this field holds significant research value.
On λ-determinants and tiling problems
Authors: de Kemmeter Jean-François , Robert Nicolas , Ruelle Philippe
Published: November 2023

We review the connections between the octahedral recurrence, λ-determinants and tiling problems. This provides in particular a direct combinatorial interpretation of the λ-determinant (and generalizations thereof) of an arbitrary matrix in terms of domino tilings of Aztec diamonds. We also reinterpret the general Robbins–Rumsey formula for the rational function of consecutive minors, given by a summation over pairs of compatible alternating sign matrices, as the partition function for tilings of Aztec diamonds equipped with a general measure.
Optimum Load Of a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells Based on Hydrogen Flow Control
Authors: Pangaribowo Triyanto , Utomo Wahyu Mulyo , Khaerudini Deni Shidqi , Kurniawan  , Bakar Afarulrazi Abu , Sutrisno Imam , Gunarti Monika Retno
Published: November 2023

In the future, proton exchange membrane fuel cells system (PEMFCs) hold promises for clean energy. However, there is a problem that causes the degradation in PEMFC system performance namely the voltage drops due to load fluctuations. The voltage drop is caused by the high load power demand. An important factor to improving PEMFCs performance is the availability of sufficient flow of hydrogen. In this paper optimisation of a PEMFCs load based on the hydrogen flow control is presented. In order to validate this project a model of the PEMFCs is simulated. Then verified by experimental testing using a 2 kW of the PEMFCs. The result shows the hydrogen flow control able to reduce the voltage drop of the PEMFCs during load variation and minimise hydrogen consumption.
Cooling Design Analysis of The Use of Land Engine On Ship
Authors: Khoir Kana Taufiq , Mustaghfirin Muh. Anis , Muradi Munir
Published: November 2023

Based on the survey, the majority of fishermen in Indonesia choose to use land engines as propulsion for the main engine and auxiliary engine on ships because in terms of the price of land engines, they are much cheaper than ship engines produced by marine engine factories. Therefore, not a few workshops that often serve land engine modifications for further use as ship propulsion. Regulations regarding the use of land engines as ship’s main engines in Indonesia are currently not widely regulated in the Classification Agency regulations. Heat exchanger that supports the cooling system for optimal use of land engines on ships. Furthermore, the heat exchanger design process with a heat transfer load of 17,416 Watt was carried out using the LMTD method and obtained a heat transfer area value of 1,204 m2 with a staggered arrangement configuration. From the results of the CFD simulation, the temperature value at the hot water outlet is 51.39 C.
OML-PCM: optical multi-level phase change memory architecture for embedded computing systems
Authors: Mohseni Milad , Novin Ahmad Habibized
Published: November 2023

Unlike Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM), Phase Change Memory (PCM) offers higher density, longer data retention, and improved scalability because of its non-volatility and low leakage power. However, Electrically-Addressable PCM (EPCM) has a higher dynamic power and long latency than DRAM. To address these issues, scientists have developed Optically-Addressable PCM (OPCM), which uses 5-level cells instead of 2-level cells in EPCM. A silicon photonic link allows optical signals to reach OPCM cells at a high speed. Hence, OPCM can achieve a higher density while maintaining better performance at multi-level cells and consuming less power per access. However, OPCM is not suitable for general use since the photonic links do not provide an electrical interface to the processor. The aim of this paper is to present a hybrid OPCM architecture based on the use of novel multi-bank clusters with distinctive properties. Electrical-Optical-Electrical conversion (EOE) allows OPCM cells to be randomly accessed by using DRAM-like circuitry. The proposed hybrid design with multi-core processing and OPCM achieves a 2.13x speedup over previous approaches while consuming less Central Processing Unit (CPU) power. It is important to note that the proposed design offers 97 units fewer power-consistent bits than EPCM. In addition, the proposed architecture provides comparable performance and power to DDR4, as well as improved bandwidth density, space efficiency, and versatility. The Gem5 simulator was used to evaluate the design. Based on the outcomes of the analysis, the proposed architecture offers 2.08x and 2.14x better evaluations and density performance than EPCM. Furthermore, the execution time has been reduced by 2.13x, the analysis time by 1.23x, and the composition time by 4.60%.
Historical simulations of temperature and precipitation from the CORDEX Africa model in the Wabi Shebele Basin
Authors: Alemu Sisay Guta , Sime Chala Hailu , Demissie Tamene Adugna
Published: November 2023

Rising global temperatures and shifting precipitation patterns have significant socio-economic consequences if not properly studied and predicted. Regional climate models (RCMs) are utilized to assess local-scale climate change. However, the reliability of individual models must be validated due to inherent limitations and methodological constraints. This study evaluates the performance of CORDEX Africa RCMs using observed rainfall and air temperature data from 1986 to 2005. Model performance was evaluated using statistical indicators such as bias, RMSE, r, MAE, and a concise plot of the statistical indicators which is Taylor’s diagram. In rainfall simulation, the RACMO22T performed admirably in the upper parts of the basin (region of high rainfall and cold temperature) and lower regions of the basin (region of low rainfall and hot temperature) with bias −8.64% and 6.19% respectively. HIRHAM5 and CCLM4-8 simulate well the maximum temperature in the upper parts with biases of (0.14 °C and −0.14 °C respectively), whereas RCA4 is well performed in the lower parts of the basin. CCLM4-8 is good for minimum temperature simulation in the upper parts, but HIRHAM5 and RCA4 are good in the lower parts of the basin. In rainfall simulation, all models are slightly good in dry months than in wet. All models underestimated the maximum temperature and overestimated the minimum temperature in the study area as compared to the observed.
Complications From Fat Grafting and Gluteal Augmentation in Outpatient Plastic Surgery: An Analysis of American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF, QUAD A) Data
Authors: Weidman Allan A , Foppiani Jose , Valentine Lauren , Hernandez Alvarez Angelica , Elmer Nicholas , Hassell Natalie , Seyidova Nargiz , Hwang Paul , Paul Marek , Arguello Alberto , Lin Samuel J
Published: November 2023

Background

Gluteal augmentation with autologous fat grafting, colloquially referred to as Brazilian butt lift (BBL), is an increasingly common procedure with a highly reported complication profile.

Objectives

In this study we aimed to analyze the prevalence and characteristics of complications that accompanied these surgeries at ambulatory surgery facilities.

Methods

Adults patients who experienced fat grafting complications from 2019 to 2021 were identified in QUAD A, formerly known as the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF, Highland Park, IL, USA), database. Patients and complications were analyzed based on sociodemographic, surgery-, and facility-specific variables with descriptive statistics and logistic regression.

Results

Overall, 436 fat grafting procedures with complications were reported to QUAD A, with an overall complication rate of 0.94%. Of these complications, 164 (37.6%) were confirmed to be from gluteal augmentation procedures. Notably, the number of gluteal augmentation with fat grafting complications decreased from the year 2019 (48) to 2020 (36), then nearly doubled from 2020 to 2021 (69). The majority of patients were female (96.7%), with a mean age of 42.0 years and a mean BMI of 28.3 kg/m2. Wound infection was the most commonly documented complication (22.3%). Of the patients who experienced complications, 35.9% presented to a hospital for their complications and 12.6% required reoperation. Four deaths were described. There was no association between sociodemographic or surgical variables and increased odds of readmission or reoperation (P > .05), except for increasing surgeon number and reoperation (P = .02).

Conclusions

Gluteal augmentation accounts for a large proportion of complications from fat grafting procedures. Increased reporting requirements may aid in future determination of incidences of complications and improve patient safety.

Level of Evidence: 3
Multilevel Bayesian analysis of monk parakeet contact calls shows dialects between European cities
Authors: Smeele Simeon Q , Tyndel Stephen A , Aplin Lucy M , McElreath Mary Brooke
Published: November 2023

Geographic differences in vocalizations provide strong evidence for animal culture, with patterns likely arising from generations of social learning and transmission. Most studies on the evolution of avian vocal variation have predominantly focused on fixed repertoire, territorial song in passerine birds. The study of vocal communication in open-ended learners and in contexts where vocalizations serve other functions is therefore necessary for a more comprehensive understanding of vocal dialect evolution. Parrots are open-ended vocal production learners that use vocalizations for social contact and coordination. Geographic variation in parrot vocalizations typically take the form of either distinct regional variations known as dialects or graded variation based on geographic distance known as clinal variation. In this study, we recorded monk parakeets (Myiopsitta monachus) across multiple spatial scales (i.e., parks and cities) in their European invasive range. We then compared calls using a multilevel Bayesian model and sensitivity analysis, with this novel approach allowing us to explicitly compare vocalizations at multiple spatial scales. We found support for founder effects and/or cultural drift at the city level, consistent with passive cultural processes leading to large-scale dialect differences. We did not find a strong signal for dialect or clinal differences between parks within cities, suggesting that birds did not actively converge on a group level signal, as expected under the group membership hypothesis. We demonstrate the robustness of our findings and offer an explanation that unifies the results of prior monk parakeet vocalization studies.
Actinomycin D synergizes with Doxorubicin in triple-negative breast cancer by inducing P53-dependent cell apoptosis
Authors: Yang Hong , Li Sha , Li Wan , Yang Yihui , Zhang Yizhi , Zhang Sen , Hao Yue , Cao Wanxin , Xu Fang , Wang Hongquan , Du Guanhua , Wang Jinhua
Published: November 2023

Objectives

There are three major subtypes of breast cancer, ER+, HER2+ and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), namely ER−, PR−, HER2−. TNBC is the most aggressive breast cancer with poor prognosis and no target drug up to now. Actinomycin D (ActD) is a bioactive metabolite of marine bacteria that has been reported to have antitumor activity. The aim of study is to investigate whether ActD has a synergetic effect on TNBC with Doxorubicin (Dox), the major chemotherapeutic drug for TNBC, and explore the underlying mechanism.

Methods

TNBC cell lines HCC1937, MDA-MB-436 and nude mice were used in the study. Drug synergy determination, LDH assay, MMP assay, Hoechst 33342 staining, Flow cytometry, Flexible docking and CESTA assay were carried out. The expression of proteins associated with apoptosis was checked by Western blot and siRNA experiments were performed to investigate the role of P53 and PUMA induced by drugs.

Results

There was much higher apoptosis rate of cells in the ActD + Dox group than that in ActD group or Dox group. Expression of MDM2 and BCL-2 was reduced while expression of P53, PUMA and BAX were increased in the groups treated with ActD + Dox or Dox compared to the control group. Furthermore, P53 siRNA or PUMA siRNA tremendously abrogated the cell apoptosis in the groups treated by ActD, Dox and ActD + Dox. Flexible docking and CESTA showed that ActD can bind MDM2.

Conclusions

ActD had a synergetic effect on TNBC with Dox via P53-dependent apoptosis and it may be a new choice for treatment of TNBC.
Deficits in neuronal architecture but not over-inhibition are main determinants of reduced neuronal network activity in a mouse model of overexpression of Dyrk1A
Authors: Manubens-Gil Linus , Pons-Espinal Meritxell , Gener Thomas , Ballesteros-Yañez Inmaculada , de Lagrán María Martínez , Dierssen Mara
Published: November 2023

In this study, we investigated the impact of Dual specificity tyrosine-phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1A (Dyrk1A) overexpression, a gene associated with Down syndrome, on hippocampal neuronal deficits in mice. Our findings revealed that mice overexpressing Dyrk1A (TgDyrk1A; TG) exhibited impaired hippocampal recognition memory, disrupted excitation-inhibition balance, and deficits in long-term potentiation (LTP). Specifically, we observed layer-specific deficits in dendritic arborization of TG CA1 pyramidal neurons in the stratum radiatum. Through computational modeling, we determined that these alterations resulted in reduced storage capacity and compromised integration of inputs, with decreased high γ oscillations. Contrary to prevailing assumptions, our model suggests that deficits in neuronal architecture, rather than over-inhibition, primarily contribute to the reduced network. We explored the potential of environmental enrichment (EE) as a therapeutic intervention and found that it normalized the excitation-inhibition balance, restored LTP, and improved short-term recognition memory. Interestingly, we observed transient significant dendritic remodeling, leading to recovered high γ. However, these effects were not sustained after EE discontinuation. Based on our findings, we conclude that Dyrk1A overexpression-induced layer-specific neuromorphological disturbances impair the encoding of place and temporal context. These findings contribute to our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of Dyrk1A-related hippocampal deficits and highlight the challenges associated with long-term therapeutic interventions for cognitive impairments.
After da Gama: real wages in Western India, c. 1500–c. 1650
Authors: Carvalhal Helder , Lucassen Jan , De Zwart Pim
Published: November 2023

The article analyses the evolution of Indian real wages for the period 1500–1650. It argues that the Great Divergence between India and north-western Europe was already visible by the early 1500s by making use of a new dataset of 2,710 separate observations, reflecting over 76,000 paid-out wages, for nine locations in Western India. These wages were deflated by rice prices and a basket of goods and imply low and declining standards of living over the sixteenth and early seventeenth centuries. In comparison with Europe, these real wages represent comparatively low living standards, and they were not much above those in Japan.
Multi-omics analyses from a single sample: prior metabolite extraction does not alter the 16S rRNA-based characterization of prokaryotic community in a diversity of sample types
Authors: Duperron Sébastien , Foucault Pierre , Duval Charlotte , Goto Midoli , Gallet Alison , Colas Simon , Marie Benjamin
Published: November 2023

Massive sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene has become a standard first step to describe and compare microbial communities from various samples. Parallel analysis of high numbers of samples makes it relevant to the statistical testing of the influence of natural or experimental factors and variables. However, these descriptions fail to document changes in community or ecosystem functioning. Nontargeted metabolomics are a suitable tool to bridge this gap, yet extraction protocols are different. In this study, prokaryotic community compositions are documented by 16S rRNA gene sequencing after direct DNA extraction or after metabolites extraction followed by DNA extraction. Results obtained using the V3–V4 region on nonaxenic cultures of cyanobacteria, lake water column, biofilm, and gut of wild and lab-reared fish indicate that prior extraction of metabolites does not influence the obtained image of prokaryotic communities. This validates sequential extraction of metabolites followed by DNA as a way to combine 16S rRNA sequencing with metabolome characterization from a single sample. This approach has the potential to complement community structure characterization with a proxy of their functioning, without the uncertainties associated with the use of separate samples.
Positivity of the Symmetric Group Characters Is as Hard as the Polynomial Time Hierarchy
Authors: Ikenmeyer Christian , Pak Igor , Panova Greta
Published: November 2023

We prove that deciding the vanishing of the character of the symmetric group is $\textsf{C}_= \textsf{P}$-complete. We use this hardness result to prove that the absolute value and also the square of the character are not contained in $\textsf{#P}$, unless the polynomial hierarchy collapses to the second level. This rules out the existence of any (unsigned) combinatorial description for the square of the characters. As a byproduct of our proof, we conclude that deciding positivity of the character is $\textsf{PP}$-complete under many-one reductions, and hence $\textsf{PH}$-hard under Turing reductions.
Spike Protein Genetic Evolution in Patients at High Risk of Severe Coronavirus Disease 2019 Treated by Monoclonal Antibodies
Authors: Leducq Valentin , Zafilaza Karen , Fauchois Antoine , Ghidaoui Emna , Sayon Sophie , Dorival Céline , Meledje Marie-Laure , Lusivika-Nzinga Clovis , Yordanov Youri , Martin-Blondel Guillaume , Carrat Fabrice , Marcelin Anne-Geneviève , Soulie Cathia
Published: November 2023

Background

High-risk patients, often immunocompromised and not responding to vaccine, continue to experience severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and death. Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) were shown to be effective to prevent severe COVID-19 for these patients. Nevertheless, concerns about the emergence of resistance mutations were raised.

Methods

We conducted a multicentric prospective cohort study, including 264 patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 at high risk for progression to severe COVID-19 and treated early with casirivimab/imdevimab, sotrovimab, or tixagevimab/cilgavimab. We sequenced the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) genome during follow-up and searched for emerging spike mutations.

Results

Immunocompromised patients have a 6-fold increased risk of developing mutations, which are associated with a prolonged duration of viral clearance but no clinical worsening. Emerging P337S/R/L/H, E340D/K/A/Q/V/G, and K356T/R substitutions in patients treated with sotrovimab are associated with higher viral RNA loads for up to 14 days post–treatment initiation. Tixagevimab/cilgavimab is associated with a 5-fold increased risk of developing mutations. R346K/I/T/S and K444R/N/M substitutions associated with tixagevimab/cilgavimab have been identified in multiple SARS-CoV-2 lineages, including BQ.1 and XBB.

Conclusions

The probability of emerging mutations arising in response to mAbs is significant, emphasizing the crucial need to investigate these mutations thoroughly and assess their impact on patients and the evolutionary trajectory of SARS-CoV-2.
Energy balance and body composition after switch between integrase strand transfer inhibitors and doravirine among people with HIV
Authors: Erlandson Kristine M , Mohaweche Ruda , Morrow Mary , Mawhinney Samantha , Khuu Vincent , Boyd Mallory , Balasubramanyam Ashok , Melanson Edward L , Lake Jordan E
Published: November 2023

Background

Integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) are associated with excessive weight gain among a subset of persons with HIV (PWH), due to unclear mechanisms. We assessed energy intake (EI) and expenditure (EE) following switch off and onto INSTIs.

Methods

PWH with >10% weight gain on an INSTI-based regimen switched INSTI to doravirine for 12 weeks, then back to INSTI for 12 weeks while keeping their remaining regimen stable. Twenty-four-hour EE, EI and weight were measured on INSTI, following switch to doravirine, and upon INSTI restart. Mixed models analysed changes over time.

Results

Among 18 participants, unadjusted 24 h EE decreased by 83 (95% CI −181 to 14) kcal following switch to doravirine, and by 2 (−105 to 100) kcal after INSTI restart; energy balance (EE−EI) increased by 266 (−126 to 658) kcal from Week 0 to Week 12, and decreased by 3 (−429 to 423) kcal from Week 12 to Week 24. Trends toward weight loss occurred following switch to doravirine [mean −1.25 (−3.18 to 0.69) kg] and when back on INSTI [−0.47 (−2.45 to 1.52) kg]. Trunk fat decreased on doravirine [−474 (−1398 to 449) g], with some regain following INSTI restart [199 (−747 to 1145) g]. Fat-free mass decreased on doravirine [−491 (−1399 to 417) g] and increased slightly after INSTI restart [178 (−753 to 1108) g].

Conclusions

Among PWH with >10% weight gain on an INSTI, switch to doravirine was associated with a trend towards decreases in 24 h EE, weight, trunk fat mass and fat-free mass. Observed changes were not significant, but suggest a mild weight-suppressive effect of doravirine among PWH.
Computational paths - a weak groupoid
Authors: de Veras Tiago M L , Ramos Arthur F , de Queiroz Ruy J G B , de Oliveira Anjolina G
Published: November 2023

On the basis of a labelled deduction system (LND$_{ED-}$TRS), we demonstrate how to formalize the concept of computational paths (sequences of rewrites) as equalities between two terms of the same type. This has allowed us to carry out a formal counterpart to equality between paths which is dealt with in homotopy theory, but this time with an approach using the device of term-rewriting paths. Using such formal calculus dealing with paths, we construct the fundamental groupoid of a path-connected $ X $ type and we define the concept of isomorphism between types. Next, we show that the computational paths determine a weak category, which will be called $ \mathcal {C}_{paths} $. Finally, we show that the weak category $ \mathcal {C}_{paths} $ determines a weak groupoid.
The stellar occultation by (319) Leona on 2023 September 13 in preparation for the occultation of Betelgeuse
Authors: Ortiz J L , Kretlow M , Schnabel C , Morales N , Flores-Martín J , Sánchez González M , Casarramona F , Selva A , Perelló C , Román-Reche A , Alonso S , Rizos J L , Gonçalves R , Castillo A , Madiedo J M , Martínez Sánchez P , Fernández Andújar J M , Maestre J L , Smith E , Gil M , Pelenjow V , Moral Soriano S , Martí J , Luque-Escamilla P L , Casas R , Delgado Casal J , Rovira J , Aceituno F J , Dekert V , Farfan R G , de Ory Guimerá V , Serrano Estepa J , Jehin E , Ferrais M , Alarcon M R , Licandro J , Serra-Ricart M , Gutiérrez P J , Kilic Y , Leiva R , Santos-Sanz P , Duffard R , Fernández-Valenzuela E , Vara-Lubiano M , Alvarez-Candal A , Rommel F L
Published: November 2023

On 2023 December 12, the star α Orionis will be occulted by asteroid (319) Leona. This represents an extraordinary and unique opportunity to analyse the brightness distribution of Betelgeuse’s photosphere with extreme angular resolution by studying light curves from different points on Earth and at different wavelengths. Here we present observations of another occultation by asteroid Leona, on 2023 September 13, whose goal was to determine Leona’s projected shape and size in preparation for the December 12th event and its interpretation. The occultation campaign was highly successful with 25 positive detections from 17 different sites and a near miss. The effective diameter in projected area derived from the positive detections was 66 ± 2 km using an elliptical fit to the instantaneous limb. The body is highly elongated, with dimensions of 79.6 ± 2.2 km × 54.8 ± 1.3 km in its long and short axis, respectively, at occultation time. This result, in combination with dense time series photometry of Leona that we recently obtained, together with archival sparse photometry, allowed us to predict the angular size of the asteroid for the Betelgeuse event and to simulate the expected brightness change. Also, an accurate position coming from the occultation is provided, to improve the orbit of Leona.
Relationships Between the Nicotine Metabolite Ratio and Laboratory Assessments of Smoking Reinforcement and Craving Among Adults in a Smoking Cessation Trial
Authors: Cooper Robert K , Mahoney Martin C , Tiffany Stephen T , Colder Craig R , Tyndale Rachel F , Hawk Larry W
Published: November 2023

Introduction

People who metabolize nicotine more quickly are generally less successful at quitting smoking. However, the mechanisms that link individual differences in the nicotine metabolite ratio (NMR), a phenotypic biomarker of the rate of nicotine clearance, to smoking outcomes are unclear. We tested the hypotheses that higher NMR is associated with greater smoking reinforcement, general craving, and cue-induced cigarette craving in a treatment-seeking sample.

Methods

Participants were 252 adults who smoke cigarettes enrolled in a randomized controlled smoking cessation trial (NCT03262662) conducted in Buffalo, New York, USA. Participants completed the Choice Behavior Under Cued Conditions (CBUCC) paradigm, a laboratory choice procedure, ~1 week before the first cessation treatment visit, at which time a saliva sample was collected for NMR assessment. On each CBUCC trial, participants reported cigarette craving during cue presentation (cigarette, water) and spent $0.01–$0.25 for a chance (5%–95%) to sample the cue (one puff, sip), providing measures of smoking reinforcement (spending for cigarettes vs. water), general cigarette craving (averaged across cigarette and water cues), and cue-specific craving (cigarette craving during cigarette vs. water cues).

Results

As observed in prior work, the NMR was significantly higher among White and female participants. As expected, both spending and cigarette craving were significantly greater on cigarette compared to water trials. However, contrary to our hypotheses, higher NMR was not associated with greater smoking reinforcement, general craving, or cue-specific craving.

Conclusions

The present data do not support that smoking reinforcement or craving is related to nicotine metabolism among individuals seeking to quit smoking.

Implications

Though greater smoking reinforcement, general craving, and cue-specific craving are hypothesized to be linked to faster nicotine metabolism, there was no evidence of such relationships in the present sample of adults seeking to quit smoking. Further research, including replication and consideration of alternate hypotheses, is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms by which the NMR is related to smoking cessation.
Grief and Comparative Literature
Authors: Majoul Bootheina
Published: November 2023

Grief is defined as “very great sadness, especially at the death of someone” (Cambridge Dictionary). Studying grief entails digging into the very meaning of bereavement, its impact on human behavior and on relationships and interactions, and excavating its unbearable nature. Rodgers and Cowles’s article “The Concept of Grief: An Analysis of Classical and Contemporary Thought” (cited under General Overviews) is an attempt to understand the very meaning of grief as a concept. Grief indeed is a widely explored topic in literature as it pertains to death studies and is affiliated with literature of loss, literary grief, and literature and emotions. In Death Representations in Literature (under Death Studies), Adriana Teodorescu examines the way death is dealt with in literature. She digs into death studies as a field to highlight how literature portrays human conditions and allows us to be aware of our humanity, highlighting the challenging role of literature as means of survival. Grief across literature(s) and culture(s) is examined through Signifying Loss: Toward a Poetics of Narrative Mourning (under Comparative Literature: On Mourning and Grief (Grief across Literature[s] and Culture[s])) by Nouri Gana, who analyzes the significance of loss and its impact on human life and psyche, by referring to selected works by James Joyce, Jamaica Kincaid, Tahar Ben Jelloun, Elias Khoury, Sigmund Freud, and Jacques Derrida. Other publications advocating a comparative approach to understanding grief are Jennifer Rushworth’s Discourses of Mourning in Dante, Petrarch, and Proust and the anthology The Routledge Companion to Death and Literature edited by Wang, Jernigan, and Murphy (both cited under Comparative Literature: On Mourning and Grief (Grief across Literature[s] and Culture[s])). This research will have a particular focus on grief and comparative literature; it will provide an overview on bereavement as a field of study, theorizing it as a concept, examining its manifestations and rituals in different cultures and writings, and citing different narratives dealing with grief across literatures and cultures, such as the works of Atiq Rahimi, Elif Shafak, Nureddin Farah, Ahlam Mosteghanemi, Young Keving, and Taher Ben Jelloun. It will also shed light on how literature and writing could be a way of coping with sorrow and grief. A compilation of works published by specialists in the field is shared at the end of the article, such as Fulton’s Death, Grief, and Bereavement: A Bibliography, 1845–1975 and Szabo’s Death and Dying: An Annotated Bibliography of the Thanatological Literature (both under Bibliographies).
Euripides' Alcestis
Authors: Castellani Victor
Published: November 2023

Euripides’ Alcestis was first performed during the Greater/City Dionysia in 438 bce in the Precinct-and-Theater of Dionysus. After three (lost) tragedies it appeared as the fourth play, the usual but by no means prescribed place for a lighter drama with a chorus of satyrs and their leader Silenus. Their lustiness, bibulousness, and overall unruly behavior would make a mythic plot into para-tragic travesty. In Euripides’ (henceforth “E’s”) play, the title character Alcestis, having some time before volunteered to die in place of her husband, King Admetus, does so, but is then wrested from Death himself by Heracles and returned to life and to spouse and children. No satyrs appear, no Papposilenus. On the other hand, after a report of Heracles’ drunkenness (that the hero may confirm on stage), for his friend Admetus the wine-fueled son of Zeus returns Alcestis to the light of the sun (and to the stage). The deed parallels a myth where Wine-god Dionysus, likewise son of Zeus, resurrects his mother, Semele, who died giving first embryonic birth to him. The tragic poet Phrynichus had dramatized the “same” basic Alcestis story perhaps half a century earlier, but all we know for sure is that Thanatos (Death) appeared on stage with a sword. Less certainly, Apollo and/or Heracles also appeared. Both nevertheless have been postulated. Apollo, who had negotiated the possibility of surrogate death. Heracles, somewhat more persuasively, a mighty demigod hero who could have forcibly rescued Alcestis from Death. According to an alternate form of the myth, to which Zeus’s son likely alludes at Alc. 850–854, possibly at his request, Uncle Hades and Queen Persephone released a valorous woman to reward her selfless love, eternally young Persephone also perhaps out of compassion for a mortal woman whose brief youth death curtailed. Questions arise: (1) How may we classify Alcestis’s theatrical genre, as E’s experiment or as a form that his audience recognized and from which they expected certain generic features? (2) In the Prologue Apollo predicts that Heracles will rescue Alcestis from Death and he does: Do these divine half-brothers, in other myth adversaries, ally, as has been suggested, to effect a happy outcome whereby Admetus, Apollo’s mortal protégé and Heracles’s friend, may live happily and long with restored Alcestis? (3) Is this outcome really happy for both? If so, (4) does Admetus deserve it? (5) Would thoughtful members of the audience reject it as impossible and/or because Admetus is unworthy of this “best of women/wives”?