bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a solute and defect concentration dependant Ising model for the study of transmutation induced segregation in neutron irradiated W–(Re, Os) systems
Authors: Lloyd M J , Martinez E , Messina L , Nguyen-Manh D
Published: August 2021

In this study, radiation-induced precipitation of transmutation products is addressed via the development of a new solute and vacancy concentration dependant Ising model for the W–Re–Os system. This new model includes interactions between both Os and Re atoms with vacancies, thus facilitating more representative simulations of transmutation in fusion reactor components. Local solute concentration dependencies are introduced for the W–Re, W–Os and Re–Os pair interactions. The model correctly accounts for the repulsion between small clusters of vacancies and the attraction between larger clusters/voids, via the introduction of local vacancy concentration dependant interaction coefficients between pairs of atoms and vacancies. To parameterise the pair interactions between atoms and/or vacancies, the enthalpy of mixing, ΔH
mix, for various configurations and solute/defect concentrations, was calculated using density functional theory, within 6 binary systems: W–Re, W–Os, Re–Os, W–vacancy, Re–vacancy and Os–vacancy. The new energy model was implemented into the SPPARKS Monte Carlo code, and successfully used to predict the formation of voids decorated with Re and Os solute atoms. Analysis suggests that there is a strong thermodynamic tendency for Os to bind to these voids with a comparatively weaker binding from Re atoms. The binding energies of various solute/vacancy clusters were calculated and showed that Re and Os solute atoms tend to stabilise small clusters of vacancies, increasing the attractive binding energy between the constituents.
Defects enriched cobalt molybdate induced by carbon dots for a high rate Li-ion battery anode
Authors: Xu Zhanwei , Wang Ying , Liu Mengyu , Sarwar Muhammad Khaqan , Zhao Yixing
Published: August 2021

A defects-enriched CoMoO4/carbon dot (CD) with CoMoO4 around 37 nm is achieved via hydrothermal reaction by introducing CDs to buffer large volume changes of CoMoO4 during lithiation–delithiation and enhance rate performance. The phase, morphology, microstructure, as well as the interface of the CoMoO4/CD composites were investigated by x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. When employed as Li-ion battery anode, the CoMoO4/CD exhibits a reversible capacity of ∼531 mAh g−1 after 400 cycles at a current density of 2.0 A g−1. Under the scan rate at 2 mV s−1, the CoMoO4/CD shows accounts for 81.1% pseudocapacitance. It may attribute to the CoMoO4 with surface defects given more reaction sites to facilitate electrons and lithium ions transfer at high current densities. Through galvanostatic intermittent titration technique, the average lithium ion diffusion coefficient calculated is an order of magnitude larger than that of bulk CoMoO4, indicating that the CoMoO4/CD possesses promising electrons and lithium ions transportation performance as anode material.
How does the CMIP6 ensemble change the picture for European climate projections?
Authors: Palmer T E , Booth B B B , McSweeney C F
Published: August 2021

We compare Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP) ensemble (CMIP6) projections for seasonal mean temperature and precipitation to CMIP5 for northern Europe, central Europe and the Mediterranean. The CMIP6 ensemble shows increased projected summer warming compared to CMIP5, which was found to be statistically significant in central Europe and the Mediterranean. Precipitation projections for Central Europe in CMIP6 were found to have a stronger drying trend in the summer months, there was also a substantially narrower projection range. Spatial comparisons indicate that this stronger drying trend also extends into a large part northern Europe. We show that warmer projected summer temperatures in northern Europe and the Mediterranean are largely driven by the higher global climate sensitivities in CMIP6 models, while regional changes are broadly similar. In central Europe a significant difference in the regional responses was found and in these cases the picture can be said to have changed. We find the difference in regional sensitivity is important in central Europe where it accounts for roughly 40

%

of the differences between ensembles in projected regional temperature.
Characteristics of spatial pattern evolution of blowouts in the Hulunbuir sandy grassland
Authors: Zhang Xi-wei , Gao Yong , Ding Yan-long , Bai Guo-lian , Wu Ya-ping
Published: August 2021

Blowout is the initial form of sand steppe, sand belts, or dunes; the continuous development of blowouts leads to desertification expansion and ecological degradation. The study area is a typical blowout area of 30762 hm2 near a sand belt north of the Hulunbuir Grassland. Seven images from Landsat TM (30 m) taken in 1984, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, and 2016 were analyzed using ArcGIS and FRAGSTATS software and the landscape pattern index method to investigate the spatial pattern change of blowouts. The results show that the distribution of blowouts is intensive, primarily comprising blowouts < 10 hm2, with the largest blowout in the study area being equal to 96.59 hm2. There was a significant correlation among blowout patch area, shape index, and fractal dimension. The long axis of the blowouts is consistent with the prevailing wind. As the blowout area increases, it forms a saucer-trough irregular shape. In summary, although there is a wide blowout distribution, there is a local aggregation distribution in certain areas resulting in significant landscape fragmentation. As a result, there is a risk of blowout fragments forming a large area of sandy land or partially broken sand dune landforms. To prevent desertification, corresponding measures for vegetation restoration should be implemented during early-stage blowouts.
Analysis of research hotspots and trends in energy-pavement engineering
Authors: Wei Xiaofeng , Wei Songtao , Li Peilong , Su Jinfei
Published: August 2021

With energy shortages and environmental pollution increasing, pavement engineering has gradually transformed from a single traffic attribute to multi-functionality. The trend of pavement construction from “energy consumption” to “energy supply” is also obvious. Therefore, the “energy-pavement engineering” that combines energy and pavement engineering has quickly become a research hotspot in the field of transportation infrastructure. To accurately and effectively grasp the research hotspots and trends of energy-pavement engineering, the research progress and problems in the field of energy-pavement engineering in the past 20 years are systematically sorted out. Energy-pavement engineering is subdivided into two concepts: energy pavement and pavement energy. Besides, mutual penetrating and integrating while carrying out research around the hot spots of energy pavement and pavement energy is an effective way to deepen energy-pavement engineering research.
Maintenance and development of agro-forestry-pastoral system from the perspective of biodiversity—Taking Zhagana in Diebu County as an example
Authors: Xie Xiaoling , Zhang Shiwen
Published: August 2021

The issue of sustainable development has a growing impact on rural revitalization and rural planning, which is also the focus of long-term attention in urban-rural transformation. Based on comprehensive analysis of field investigation data in Zhagana area, quantitative data of related factors between resources of various life forms and hidden dangers of rural ecological sustainable development, this paper takes Zhagana in alpine pastoral area as the research object and regards biodiversity and long-term demands for rural sustainable development as the breakthrough point, extracting the ecological advantages associated with the local unique agro-forestry-pastoral system, and exploring the strategic system of maintaining and developing agro-forestry-pastoral system in alpine pastoral area. Additionally, starting from the biodiversity that is highly integrated with the natural environment in rural areas, the construction includes early warning and implementation of rural agro-forestry-pastoral system, detection and later maintenance of rural agriculture, forestry and animal husbandry restoration, and maintenance and remediation of rural ecological sustainable development so as to explore the optimization ways of sustainable development of rural ecology in alpine pastoral areas with low cost, high efficiency, income generation and suitable operation, and conduct public intervention based on natural solutions for rural sustainable development.
Simulation and control of DFIGs connected to the grid
Authors: Dou Jian , Qie Shuang , Liu Xingqi , Ren Yi
Published: August 2021

Due to the development of renewable energy generations, the reasonable grid-connected control strategy for wind turbines is of great significant. Doubly-fed Induction Generator (DFIG) is one of the variable speed constant frequency (VSCF) motors, which is regarded as the object in this paper. To decouple the control of active and reactive power, the strategies for both grid-side and rotor-side converter are designed. The simulation model of DFIG is built with MATLAB/Simulink software, and the grid-connection simulation experiment is carried out.
A new method for reasonable injection production ratio calculation of considering external flow volume
Authors: Li Meifang
Published: August 2021

The phenomenon of high injection production ratio and low formation pressure maintenance level are common in peripheral oil fields of Daqing oilfield. It is considered that the outflow of water injection exists in the reservoir. In this paper, the optimal mathematical model is established with the maximum oil production as the objective function and the injection pressure and flowing pressure as the constraints. Based on the material balance equation considering the overflow water, the calculation formula of formation pressure changing with time, and other parameters changing such as injection production ratio are derived. The reasonable interval injection production ratio in a block can be obtained by the iterative method, which provides a theoretical basis for reasonable production and injection allocation in the middle-later stage of water drive reservoir development.
Investigation of epoxy composites for outdoor insulation under accelerated ultraviolet exposure
Authors: Butt Safi Ullah , Khattak Abraiz , Ali Asghar , Faiza  , Imran Kashif , Ullah Nasim , Alahmadi Ahmad Aziz , Khan Adam
Published: August 2021

Epoxy and its composites have shown remarkable properties to be used for outdoor high voltage insulation applications. However, outdoor environment that contains UV-A radiations deteriorates the organic structure of epoxy-based insulators. To analyze the surface degradation and chemical changes in structure due to UV radiations, neat epoxy (NEPOX), 15 wt.% epoxy microcomposite (EMC 15) and 5 wt.% epoxy nanocomposite (ENC 5) were prepared and subjected to a specially fabricated UV chamber under accelerated conditions. The samples were analyzed with visual inspection, STRI hydrophobicity classification, and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The analyses confirmed the pattern of gradual degradation of surface structure due to the appearance of ester and carbonyl groups due to oxidation of hydrocarbon chains. FTIR peaks of C=O stretching at ∼1725.52 increased by 157.44%, 75.86% and 33.33% for NEPOX, EMC 15 and ENC, respectively. This shows that ENC-5 expressed better resistance against surface oxidation as compared to EMC 15 and NEPOX. Addition of fillers enhanced the chain intactness and nano filler performed even better due to greater surface area and surface energy.
Influence of the carburization time on the structural and mechanical properties of XC20 steel
Authors: Abdenour Saoudi , Linda Aissani , Oualid Chahaoui , Ali Bestandji , Salah Louafi Mohammed , Hamid Djebaili , Francisco Chinesta
Published: August 2021

This study focuses on the effect of carburization time on the structural and mechanical properties of low carbon XC20 mild steel (C. Wt.% <0.25). The XC20 steel was carburized with activated carbon with a carbon potential Cp1 = 1.1%, at 910 °C at different carburization times of 2, 4 and 6 h. The results obtained show that XC20 steel (non-carburized) has a ferrite-pearlitic structure with a hardness and a Young’s modulus of the order of (150 HV, 26 KN/mm2). After carburization, the structure of the carburized layer is transformed in martensite (Fe γ) in which cementite (Fe3C) is imbricated. The depth of the carburized layer and the amount of carbon on the surface gradually increase with increasing carburization time. In addition, the carburized XC20 steel becomes hard and brittle where the hardness and Young’s modulus have been increased for a high holding time until reaching maximum values ​​(845 HV, 48 KN mm−2) after 6 h of carburization . However, the toughness of XC20 steel has been reduced from 163 to 40 J cm−2.
Rapid parameter estimation of discrete decaying signals using autoencoder networks
Authors: Visschers Jim C , Budker Dmitry , Bougas Lykourgos
Published: August 2021

In this work we demonstrate the use of neural networks for rapid extraction of signal parameters of discretely sampled signals. In particular, we use dense autoencoder networks to extract the parameters of interest from exponentially decaying signals and decaying oscillations. By using a three-stage training method and careful choice of the neural network size, we are able to retrieve the relevant signal parameters directly from the latent space of the autoencoder network at significantly improved rates compared to traditional algorithmic signal-analysis approaches. We show that the achievable precision and accuracy of this method of analysis is similar to conventional algorithm-based signal analysis methods, by demonstrating that the extracted signal parameters are approaching their fundamental parameter estimation limit as provided by the Cramér–Rao bound. Furthermore, we demonstrate that autoencoder networks are able to achieve signal analysis, and, hence, parameter extraction, at rates of 75 kHz, orders-of-magnitude faster than conventional techniques with similar precision. Finally, our exploration of the limitations of our approach in different computational systems suggests that analysis rates of

>

200 kHz are feasible using neural networks in systems where the transfer time between the data-acquisition system and data-analysis modules can be kept below ∼3 µs.
Aleksandrov’s estimates for elliptic equations with drift in Morrey spaces containing 𝐿_{𝑑}
Authors: Dong Hongjie , Krylov N.
Published: August 2021

In this note, we obtain a version of Aleksandrov’s maximum principle when the drift coefficients are in Morrey spaces, which contains

L
d

L_d

, and when the free term is in

L
p

L_p

for some

p
>
d

p>d

.
Generalized Diophantine 𝑚-tuples
Authors: Dixit Anup , Kim Seoyoung , Murty M. Ram
Published: August 2021

For non-zero integers

n
n

and

k
≥
2

k\geq 2

, a generalized Diophantine

m
m

-tuple with property

D
k

(
n
)

D_k(n)

is a set of

m
m

positive integers

{

a
1

,

a
2

,
…
,

a
m

}

\{a_1,a_2,\ldots , a_m\}

such that

a
i

a
j

+
n

a_ia_j + n

is a

k
k

-th power for

1
≤
i
>
j
≤
m

1\leq i> j\leq m

. Define

M
k

(
n
)
≔
sup
{

|

S

|

:
S

M_k(n)≔\sup \{|S| : S

has property

D
k

(
n
)
}

D_k(n)\}

. In this paper, we study upper bounds on

M
k

(
n
)

M_k(n)

, as we vary

n
n

over positive integers. In particular, we show that for

k
≥
3

k\geq 3

,

M
k

(
n
)

M_k(n)

is

O
(
log
⁡
n
)

O(\log n)

and further assuming the Paley graph conjecture,

M
k

(
n
)

M_k(n)

is

O
(
(
log
⁡
n

)

ϵ

)

O((\log n)^{\epsilon })

. The problem for

k
=
2

k=2

was studied by a long list of authors that goes back to Diophantus.
Todorc̆ević’ trichotomy and a hierarchy in the class of tame dynamical systems
Authors: Glasner Eli , Megrelishvili Michael
Published: August 2021

Todorc̆ević’ trichotomy in the class of separable Rosenthal compacta induces a hierarchy in the class of tame (compact, metrizable) dynamical systems(X,T)(X,T)according to the topological properties of their enveloping semigroupsE(X)E(X). More precisely, we define the classesTame2⊂Tame1⊂Tame,\begin{equation*} \mathrm {Tame}_\mathbf {2} \subset \mathrm {Tame}_\mathbf {1} \subset \mathrm {Tame}, \end{equation*}whereTame1\mathrm {Tame}_\mathbf {1}is the proper subclass of tame systems with first countableE(X)E(X), andTame2\mathrm {Tame}_\mathbf {2}is its proper subclass consisting of systems with hereditarily separableE(X)E(X). We study some general properties of these classes and exhibit many examples to illustrate these properties.
Proteomic analysis of microtubule inner proteins (MIPs) in Rib72 null Tetrahymena cells reveals functional MIPs
Authors: Fabritius Amy S. , Bayless Brian A. , Li Sam , Stoddard Daniel , Heydeck Westley , Ebmeier Christopher C. , Anderson Lauren , Gunnels Tess , Nachiappan Chidambaram , Whittall Justen B. , Old William , Agard David A. , Nicastro Daniela , Winey Mark
Published: August 2021

We performed a proteomic screen of cilia missing known microtubule inner proteins (MIPs) Rib72A and Rib72B to determine additional MIP candidates. One of these candidates, Fap115, was confirmed to be a structural and functional MIP using cell biology and cryo-electron tomography.
Parallel and non-parallel divergence within polymorphic populations of brook stickleback,Culaea inconstans(Actinopterygii: Gasterosteidae)
Authors: Willerth Kaitlyn , Franks Emily , Mee Jonathan A
Published: August 2021

Studying parallel evolution allows us to draw conclusions about the repeatability of adaptive evolution. Whereas populations likely experience similar selective pressures in similar environments, it is not clear if this will always result in parallel divergence of ecologically relevant traits. Our study investigates the extent of parallelism associated with the evolution of pelvic spine reduction in brook stickleback populations. We find that populations with parallel divergence in pelvic spine morphology do not exhibit parallel divergence in head and body morphology but do exhibit parallel divergence in diet. In addition, we compare these patterns associated with pelvic reduction in brook stickleback to well-studied patterns of divergence between spined and unspined threespine stickleback. Whereas spine reduction is associated with littoral habitats and a benthic diet in threespine stickleback, spine reduction in brook stickleback is associated with a planktonic diet. Hence, we find that pelvic spine divergence is associated with largely non-parallel ecological consequences across species.
A Paradigm Shift to Align Transmission Routes With Mechanisms
Authors: Marr Linsey C , Tang Julian W
Published: August 2021

Current infection-control guidelines subscribe to a contact/droplet/airborne paradigm that is based on outdated understanding. Here, we propose to modify and align existing guidelines with a more accurate description of the different transmission routes. This will improve the effectiveness of control measures as more transmissible variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) emerge.
Community of Bark and Ambrosia Beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae and Platypodinae) Infesting Brazilian Peppertree Treated With Herbicide and the Volatile Tree Response
Authors: Wheeler Gregory S , Kendra Paul E , David Aaron S , Lake Ellen C , Sigmon Joseph W , Palacios Jean , Donlan Ellen M
Published: August 2021

Brazilian peppertree, Schinus terebinthifolia Raddi (Anacardiaceae), is one of the most invasive weeds of natural and agricultural areas of Florida, Hawaii, and Texas (USA). Herbicides are the main tool used to manage populations of this weed. Faunal inventories of the insects associated with invasive populations of the weed have mostly listed leaf-feeding phytophagous, pollinator, or predacious species. Among these, bark and ambrosia beetles were collected only once from S. terebinthifolia in the invaded range and there are no reports from the native range. A diverse assemblage of bark and ambrosia beetles, many well-known economic pests of ornamentals, was reared from S. terebinthifolia bolts collected at a restoration site in Florida that had been treated with herbicide (triclopyr ester). A similar collection of beetles was captured on ethanol-baited sticky traps. No beetles emerged from bolts of untreated trees, almost none emerged from those wounded with a machete (3.1% of total), whereas nearly all the beetles collected emerged from bolts that had been treated with herbicide (62.3%) or the combination wounded + herbicide (34.6%). Ethanol was detected from the herbicide and wound + herbicide-treated bolts suggesting this was the attractive kairomone. Abundant amounts of other volatiles were collected from all bolts, especially from the wounded treatment, but no association was detected between volatile emissions and beetle infestation. Further studies are needed to determine whether invasive populations of S. terebinthifolia treated with herbicides constitute reservoirs for pest bark and ambrosia beetles that may spill over onto neighboring ornamental hosts.
A case report of immune checkpoint inhibitor-related steroid-refractory myocarditis and myasthenia gravis-like myositis treated with abatacept and mycophenolate mofetil
Authors: Jespersen Mette Syberg , Fanø Søren , Stenør Christian , Møller Anne Kirstine
Published: August 2021

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-related myocarditis is an uncommon but potentially fatal immune-related adverse event. Corticoid-resistant myocarditis induced by ICI is an important therapeutic challenge.

Case summary

Here, we present a case of steroid-refractory ICI-related myocarditis and myositis treated with abatacept and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). A 57-year-old male with metastatic renal cell carcinoma was diagnosed with immune-related myocarditis and myasthenia gravis-like myositis after first dose of combination ICIs with nivolumab (anti-programmed cell death-1) plus ipilimumab (anti-cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4). Twelve days after ICI he was admitted to the hospital due to palpitations, headache, and pain in the extremities. Laboratory findings revealed elevated inflammatory markers and cardiac enzymes. Electrocardiogram showed first-degree atrioventricular (AV) block and right bundle branch block which developed into complete heart block within 48 h. Because of clinical and paraclinical deterioration despite immediate initiation of methylprednisolone abatacept and MMF was added. Following, gradual subjective improvement and termination of arrhythmia led to discharge of the patient from the hospital 6 weeks after the introduction of ICI.

Discussion

The key treatment of ICI-related myocarditis is glucocorticoid. For steroid-refractory myocarditis supplementary immune suppressive agents are recommended. Yet, data still relies on case reports and case series, due to lack of prospective studies. In this case, the use of abatacept and MMF led to resolution of steroid-resistant ICI-related myocarditis and myositis.
Preventing heart failure: a position paper of the Heart Failure Association in collaboration with the European Association of Preventive Cardiology
Authors: Piepoli Massimo F , Adamo Marianna , Barison Andrea , Bestetti Reinaldo B , Biegus Jan , Böhm Michael , Butler Javed , Carapetis Jonathan , Ceconi Claudio , Chioncel Ovidiu , Coats Andrew , Crespo-Leiro Maria G , de Simone Giovanni , Drexel Heinz , Emdin Michele , Farmakis Dimitros , Halle Martin , Heymans Stephane , Jaarsma Tiny , Jankowska Ewa , Lainscak Mitja , Lam Carolyn S P , Løchen Maja-Lisa , Lopatin Yuri , Maggioni Aldo , Matrone Benedetta , Metra Marco , Noonan Katharine , Pina Ileana , Prescott Eva , Rosano Giuseppe , Seferovic Petar M , Sliwa Karen , Stewart Simon , Uijl Alicia , Vaartjes Ilonca , Vermeulen Roel , Verschuren W M , Volterrani Maurizio , Von Haehling Stephan , Hoes Arno
Published: August 2021

The heart failure epidemic is growing and its prevention, in order to reduce associated hospital readmission rates and its clinical and economic burden, is a key issue in modern cardiovascular medicine. The present consensus document aims to provide practical evidence-based information to support the implementation of effective preventive measures. After reviewing the most common risk factors, an overview of the population attributable risks in different continents is presented, to identify potentially effective opportunities for prevention and to inform preventive strategies. Finally, potential interventions that have been proposed and have been shown to be effective in preventing HF are listed.
Polysaccharide utilization by a marine heterotrophic bacterium from the SAR92 clade
Authors: Xue Cheng , Xie Zhang-Xian , Li Yuan-Yuan , Chen Xiao-Huang , Sun Geng , Lin Lin , Giovannoni Stephen J , Wang Da-Zhi
Published: August 2021

SAR92 is one of the few examples of a widely distributed, abundant oligotroph that can be cultivated to study pathways of carbon oxidation in ocean systems. Genomic evidence for SAR92 suggests that this gammaproteobacterium might be a primary consumer of polysaccharides in the epipelagic zone, its main habitat. Here, we investigated cell growth, polysaccharide utilization gene expression, and carbohydrate-active enzyme abundance of a culturable SAR92 strain, HTCC2207, grown with different polysaccharides. Xylan and laminarin, two polysaccharides mainly produced by phytoplankton, supported the growth of HTCC2207 better than other polysaccharides. HTCC2207 possessed polysaccharide utilization loci (PULs) consisting of TonB-dependent receptor (TBDR) and glycoside hydrolase (GH) family genes. GH genes such as GH17 and GH3 presented no substrate-specificity and were induced by different sugar substrates, while expressions of GH16, GH10 and GH30 were enhanced in the glucose-treatment but suppressed in the polysaccharide-treatment, indicating complex polysaccharide utilization by HTCC2207. Metabolic pathways for laminarin and xylan were re-constructed in HTCC2207 based on the PULs genes and other predicted carbohydrate-active enzymes. This study reveals features of the epipelagic niche of SAR92 and provide insight into the biogeochemical cycling of labile, high-molecular carbohydrate compounds in the surface ocean.
Weight Loss and Exercise Differentially Affect Insulin Sensitivity, Body Composition, Cardiorespiratory Fitness, and Muscle Strength in Older Adults With Obesity: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Brennan Andrea M , Standley Robert A , Anthony Steven J , Grench Kory E , Helbling Nicole L , DeLany James P , Cornnell Heather H , Yi Fanchao , Stefanovic-Racic Maja , Toledo Frederico G S , Coen Paul M , Carnero Elvis A , Goodpaster Bret H
Published: August 2021

Background

Aging-related disease risk is exacerbated by obesity and physical inactivity. It is unclear how weight loss and increased activity improve risk in older adults. We aimed to determine the effects of diet-induced weight loss with and without exercise on insulin sensitivity, VO2peak, body composition, and physical function in older obese adults.

Methods

Physically inactive older (68.6 ± 4.5 years) obese (body mass index 37.4 ± 4.9 kg/m2) adults were randomized to health education control (HEC; n = 25); diet-induced weight loss (WL; n = 31); or weight loss and exercise (WLEX; n = 28) for 6 months. Insulin sensitivity was measured by hyperinsulinemic–euglycemic clamp, body composition by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and MRI, strength by isokinetic dynamometry, and VO2peak by graded exercise test.

Results

WLEX improved (p < .05) peripheral insulin sensitivity (+75 ± 103%) versus HEC (+12 ± 67%); WL (+36 ± 47%) versus HEC did not reach statistical significance. WLEX increased VO2peak (+7 ± 12%) versus WL (−2 ± 24%) and prevented reductions in strength and lean mass induced by WL (p < .05). WLEX decreased abdominal adipose tissue (−16 ± 9%) versus HEC (−3 ± 8%) and intermuscular adipose tissue (−15 ± 13%) versus both HEC (+9 ± 15%) and WL (+2 ± 11%; p < .01).

Conclusions

Exercise with weight loss improved insulin sensitivity and VO2peak, decreased ectopic fat, and preserved lean mass and strength. Weight loss alone decreased lean mass and strength. Older adults intending to lose weight should perform regular exercise to promote cardiometabolic and functional benefits, which may not occur with calorie restriction-induced weight loss alone.
Swapping Versus Dose Optimization in Patients Losing Response to Adalimumab With Adequate Drug Levels
Authors: Roblin Xavier , Genin Capucine , Nancey Stéphane , Williet Nicolas , Veyrard Pauline , Boschetti Gilles , Phelip Jean-Marc , Berger Anne-Emmanuelle , Killian Martin , Waeckel Louis , Flourie Bernard , Paul Stéphane
Published: August 2021

Background

In cases of loss of response due to mechanistic failure under antitumor necrosis factor agents, it is recommended to switch to another class of biologics. Two different strategies were compared in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) who were treated with nonoptimized adalimumab (ADA) and experienced a loss of response despite therapeutic trough levels of adalimuma—either ADA dose optimization or switching to vedolizumab or ustekinumab.

Methods

Patients under maintenance therapy with ADA monotherapy (40 mg every 14 days) and who experienced a secondary loss of response with trough levels > 4.9 μg/mL were included prospectively in this nonrandomized study. The primary end point was the survival rate without therapeutic discontinuation after ADA dose optimization or switching to another class of biologics.

Results

Adalimumab was optimized (n = 61 patients, 42 Crohn’s disease, 19 ulcerative colitis) or swapped for vedolizumab (n = 40, 20 ulcerative colitis) or ustekinumab (n = 30, 30 Crohn’s disease). At 24 months, 11 out of 70 patients (14.8%) in the swap group discontinued treatment compared with 36 out of 61 (59.6%) patients in the optimization group (P < 0.001). The median time without therapeutic discontinuation was significantly longer in the swap group (>24 months) than in the optimization group (13.3 months, P < 0.001). In the optimization group, treatment discontinuation was positively associated with baseline fecal calprotectin >500 μg/g (HR, 3.53; 95% CI, 1.16–10.72; P = 0.026) and inversely associated with variation of trough levels of adalimumab (>2 µg/mL from baseline to week 8 after optimization; HR, 0.51; 95% CI, 0.13–0.82; P = 0.03). In the swap group, no factor was associated with treatment discontinuation.

Conclusion

In IBD patients under ADA maintenance therapy who experience a secondary loss of response and in whom trough levels are >4.9µg/mL, swapping to another class is better than optimizing ADA, which is, however, appropriate in a subgroup of patients.
Turing Universality of the Incompressible Euler Equations and a Conjecture of Moore
Authors: Cardona Robert , Miranda Eva , Peralta-Salas Daniel
Published: August 2021

In this article, we construct a compact Riemannian manifold of high dimension on which the time-dependent Euler equations are Turing complete. More precisely, the halting of any Turing machine with a given input is equivalent to a certain global solution of the Euler equations entering a certain open set in the space of divergence-free vector fields. In particular, this implies the undecidability of whether a solution to the Euler equations with an initial datum will reach a certain open set or not in the space of divergence-free fields. This result goes one step further in Tao’s programme to study the blow-up problem for the Euler and Navier–Stokes equations using fluid computers. As a remarkable spin-off, our method of proof allows us to give a counterexample to a conjecture of Moore dating back to 1998 on the non-existence of analytic maps on compact manifolds that are Turing complete.
Time and Temporality in HCI Research
Authors: Wiberg Mikael , Stolterman Erik
Published: August 2021

‘Time’ and ‘temporality’ are increasingly addressed in human-computer interaction (HCI) research. From issues related to mapping and visualizing data along timelines via explorations of temporality as a design material to studies of lag and the rhythms of work, time is a recurring perspective in HCI research. In fact, time has been a recurring aspect in HCI research for the past 30 years. Based on this continuous and growing interest in HCI research, we find it to be a good time to explore if ‘time’ can be used as a way to structure and organize HCI research. In this paper, we make one such attempt based on a literature study in which we have focused on how time and temporality has been addressed in HCI research during the past 30 years. In our overview of the field, we explore how time and temporality has played out in HCI along the two dimensions of what and how it has been studied. Based on these two dimensions, we created a 4 × 4 matrix that allowed us to filter the material and categorize HCI research in relation to time and temporality. As a result of our explorations, we have identified a turn to temporality as a design material in HCI, an interest in methods for temporality studies in HCI and in temporality as a theoretical lens. We end with a discussion of some implications of our findings around the notions of (i) waves of time and temporality studies in HCI research, (ii) the potential use of the 4 × 4 matrix and (iii) the consequences of a more fundamental shift from things to events.
Prevalence of MDR bacteria in an acute trauma hospital in Port-au-Prince, Haiti: a retrospective analysis from 2012 to 2018
Authors: Açma Ayşe , Williams Anita , Repetto Ernestina , Cabral Sèrgio , Sunyoto Temmy , Woolley Sophie Cherestal , Mahama Gabane
Published: August 2021

Background

Antibiotic resistance (ABR) is recognized as an increasing threat to global health. Haiti declared ABR an emerging public health threat in 2018, however, the current surveillance system is limited. We described the microbiological data from a Médecins Sans Frontières trauma hospital, to increase knowledge on ABR in Haiti for similar facilities.

Methods

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis of routine microbiological data of samples taken from patients admitted to the inpatient ward or followed up in the outpatient clinic of the trauma hospital from March 2012 to December 2018. Resistance trends were analysed per isolate and compared over the 7 year period.

Results

Among 1742 isolates, the most common samples were pus (53.4%), wound swabs (30.5%) and blood (6.9%). The most frequently detected bacteria from these sample types were Staphylococcus aureus (21.9%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (20.9%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (16.7%). MDR bacteria (32.0%), ESBL-producing bacteria (39.1%), MRSA (24.1%) and carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) species (2.6%) were all detected. Between 2012 and 2018 the number of ESBL isolates significantly increased from 3.2% to 42.9% (P = 0.0001), and resistance to clindamycin in MSSA isolates rose from 3.7% to 29.6% (P = 0.003). Two critical WHO priority pathogens (ESBL-producing CRE and carbapenem-resistant P. aeruginosa) were also detected.

Conclusions

Over a 7 year period, a high prevalence of MDR bacteria was observed, while ESBL-producing bacteria showed a significantly increasing trend. ABR surveillance is important to inform clinical decisions, treatment guidelines and infection prevention and control practices.
Validation of a Flow Cytometry Live Cell-Based Assay to Detect Myelin Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein Antibodies for Clinical Diagnostics
Authors: Lopez Joseph A , Houston Samuel D , Tea Fiona , Merheb Vera , Lee Fiona X Z , Smith Sandy , McDonald David , Zou Alicia , Liyanage Ganesha , Pilli Deepti , Denkova Martina , Lechner-Scott Jeannette , van der Walt Anneke , Barnett Michael H , Reddel Stephen W , Broadley Simon , Ramanathan Sudarshini , Dale Russell C , Brown David A , Brilot Fabienne
Published: August 2021

Background

Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies (MOG Ab) are essential in the diagnosis of MOG Ab–associated disease (MOGAD). Live cell-based assays (CBAs) are the gold standard for MOG Ab detection with improved sensitivity and specificity over fixed CBAs. A number of testing centers have used flow cytometry for its high throughput and quantitative utility. Presently, there is increasing demand to translate these research-based methods into an accredited routine diagnostic setting.

Methods

A flow cytometry live CBA was used to detect MOG Ab in patients with demyelination. Serostatuses were compared between a research-based assay and a streamlined diagnostic assay. Inter-laboratory validation of the streamlined assay was performed in an accredited diagnostic laboratory. Further streamlining was performed by introducing a borderline serostatus range and reducing the number of controls used to determine the positivity threshold.

Results

High serostatus agreement (98%–100%) was observed between streamlined and research-based assays. Intra- and inter-assay imprecision was improved in the streamlined assay (mean intra- and inter-assay CV = 7.3% and 27.8%, respectively) compared to the research-based assay (mean intra- and inter-assay CV = 11.8% and 33.6%, respectively). Borderline positive and clear positive serostatuses were associated with confirmed phenotypes typical of MOGAD. Compared to using 24 controls, robust serostatus classification was observed when using 13 controls without compromising analytical performance (93%–98.5% agreement).

Conclusions

Flow cytometry live CBAs show robust utility in determining MOG Ab serostatus. Streamlining and standardizing use of this assay for diagnostics would improve the accuracy and reliability of routine testing to aid diagnosis and treatment of patients with demyelination.
Engaging Laboratory Staff in Stewardship: Barriers Experienced by Medical Laboratory Technologists in Canada
Authors: VanSpronsen Amanda D , Zychla Laura , Villatoro Valentin , Yuan Yan , Turley Elona , Ohinmaa Arto
Published: August 2021

Background

Laboratory stewardship programs aim to improve the use of laboratory resources, including reducing inappropriate testing. These programs should engage all healthcare stakeholder groups, including all levels of laboratory staff. Medical laboratory technologists (MLTs) are highly skilled professionals and are well positioned to play a supportive role in stewardship but may be overlooked. The aim of this study is to identify the barriers to MLT participation in stewardship activities.

Methods

We developed and disseminated a self-administered survey to MLTs in Canada to assess their knowledge and attitudes toward inappropriate laboratory utilizatioz and explore perceived barriers to taking on an active role in stewardship initiatives. Themes were identified in open-ended responses and mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF).

Results

MLTs feel accountable for helping ensure appropriate resource use and recognize that it is an important issue to address. However, they experience significant barriers and have low intention to act. The self-reported barrier most frequently described was lack of time arising from excessive workloads, but other constraints exist. Themes mapped to the TDF most strongly in the domain of environmental context and resources, supporting evidence that workplace structure and culture play key roles in impacting this group.

Conclusions

To meaningfully engage MLTs in stewardship activities, these barriers should be addressed. Highlighting MLT expertise and creating communication structures and opportunities for their unique contributions may be fruitful.
The 2021 PhD Board-Certified Clinical Chemist Compensation Survey
Authors: Patel Khushbu , El-Khoury Joe M , Kataria Yachana , Wheeler Sarah , Hackenmueller Sarah A
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Doctoral-level clinical chemists work in various settings including academia, healthcare systems, reference laboratories, and industry. Information regarding compensation and benefits for PhD board-certified clinical chemists is limited. The American Association for Clinical Chemistry’s (AACC) Society for Young Clinical Laboratorians (SYCL) Core Committee completed a compensation survey in February 2021 and compared that to previous survey results.

Methods

The 2021 salary survey was made available to all doctoral-level AACC members working in the United States and Canada. Respondents provided information on type of degree and board certification, years of experience, employment sector, geographic location, and gender. The survey collected confidential self-reported data from 208 respondents, with 187 (90%) respondents residing in the United States.

Results

The 25th percentile, median and 75th percentile total compensation range for 113 PhDrespondents who are certified by the American Board of Clinical Chemistry (ABCC) and residing in the United States was $150 000 to $159 000, $180 000 to $189 000, and $230 000 to $239 000, respectively. Most of the respondents worked in either an academic, hospital, or healthcare system setting, with 47% of respondents working at academic medical centers.

Conclusions

In this 2021 compensation survey, we continue to see an upward trend in compensation ranges for board certified PhD clinical chemists. This report is important in allowing individuals to actively advocate with prospective and current employers for equal and fair compensation as well as other benefits that impact career development and growth.
A predictive model for next cycle start date that accounts for adherence in menstrual self-tracking
Authors: Li Kathy , Urteaga Iñigo , Shea Amanda , Vitzthum Virginia J , Wiggins Chris H , Elhadad Noémie
Published: August 2021

Objective

The study sought to build predictive models of next menstrual cycle start date based on mobile health self-tracked cycle data. Because app users may skip tracking, disentangling physiological patterns of menstruation from tracking behaviors is necessary for the development of predictive models.

Materials and Methods

We use data from a popular menstrual tracker (186 000 menstruators with over 2 million tracked cycles) to learn a predictive model, which (1) accounts explicitly for self-tracking adherence; (2) updates predictions as a given cycle evolves, allowing for interpretable insight into how these predictions change over time; and (3) enables modeling of an individual's cycle length history while incorporating population-level information.

Results

Compared with 5 baselines (mean, median, convolutional neural network, recurrent neural network, and long short-term memory network), the model yields better predictions and consistently outperforms them as the cycle evolves. The model also provides predictions of skipped tracking probabilities.

Discussion

Mobile health apps such as menstrual trackers provide a rich source of self-tracked observations, but these data have questionable reliability, as they hinge on user adherence to the app. By taking a machine learning approach to modeling self-tracked cycle lengths, we can separate true cycle behavior from user adherence, allowing for more informed predictions and insights into the underlying observed data structure.

Conclusions

Disentangling physiological patterns of menstruation from adherence allows for accurate and informative predictions of menstrual cycle start date and is necessary for mobile tracking apps. The proposed predictive model can support app users in being more aware of their self-tracking behavior and in better understanding their cycle dynamics.
Functional analyses of plasmodium ferredoxin Asp97Tyr mutant related to artemisinin resistance of human malaria parasites
Authors: Kimata-Ariga Yoko , Morihisa Rena
Published: August 2021

Mutation of Asp97Tyr in the C-terminal region of ferredoxin (PfFd) in the apicoplast of malaria parasites was recently reported to be strongly related to the parasite’s resistance to the frontline antimalarial drug, artemisinin. We previously showed that the aromatic amino acid in the C-terminal region of PfFd is important for the interaction with its electron transfer partner, Fd-NADP+ reductase (PfFNR). Here, the importance of the aromatic–aromatic interaction between PfFd and PfFNR was shown using the kinetic analysis of the electron transfer reaction of site-directed mutants of PfFNR with PfFd. Mutation of Asp97Tyr of PfFd was further shown to increase the affinity with PfFNR by the measurements of the dissociation constant (Kd) using tryptophan fluorescence titration and the Michaelis constant (Km) in the kinetic analysis with PfFNRs. Diaphorase activity of PfFNR was inhibited by D97Y PfFd at lower concentration as compared to wild-type PfFd. Ascorbate radical scavenging activity of PfFd and electron transfer activity to a heterogeneous Fd-dependent enzyme was lower with D97Y PfFd than that of wild-type PfFd. These results showed that D97Y mutant of PfFd binds to PfFNR tighter than wild-type PfFd, and thus may suppress the function of PfFNR which could be associated with the action of artemisinin.
Rapid genomic expansion and purging associated with habitat transitions in a clade of beach crustaceans (Amphipoda: Haustoriidae)
Authors: Hancock Zachary B , Hardin Faith O , Murthy Archana , Hillhouse Andrew , Johnston J Spencer
Published: August 2021

Dramatic genome size variation exists across the Tree of Life. Some crustacean groups, such as amphipods, have genome sizes that correlate with body size, temperature, and water depth, indicating that genome sizes may be constrained due to physiological pressures. This may indicate that a general “genome-temperature-size” rule exists in ectotherms, in which body-size and latitude may be predictive of genome size. We examined the relationship between genome size, repetitive content, and environmental variables on a clade of sand-burrowing amphipods (Haustoriidae) that are distributed across the Gulf of Mexico and the North Atlantic. We uncovered a 6-fold genome size variation within Haustoriidae, a substantial amount considering this clade is less than 7 million years old. Unlike previous studies, we find no correlation between genome size and latitude, but do uncover a significant relationship between genome size and body length. Further, we find that the proportion of repetitive content predicts genome size, and that the largest genomes appear to be driven by expansions of LINE elements. We also found evidence of genomic purging and body size reduction in two lineages that have independently colonized warm brackish waters, possibly indicating a strong physiological constraint of transitioning from surf-swept beaches to protected bays.
The sexual spore pigment asperthecin is required for normal ascospore production and protection from UV light in Aspergillus nidulans
Authors: Palmer Jonathan M , Wiemann Philipp , Greco Claudio , Chiang Yi Ming , Wang Clay C C , Lindner Daniel L , Keller Nancy P
Published: August 2021

Many fungi develop both asexual and sexual spores that serve as propagules for dissemination and/or recombination of genetic traits. Asexual spores are often heavily pigmented and this pigmentation provides protection from UV light. However, little is known about any purpose pigmentation that may serve for sexual spores. The model Ascomycete Aspergillus nidulans produces both green pigmented asexual spores (conidia) and red pigmented sexual spores (ascospores). Here we find that the previously characterized red pigment, asperthecin, is the A. nidulans ascospore pigment. The asperthecin biosynthetic gene cluster is composed of three genes: aptA, aptB, and aptC, where deletion of either aptA (encoding a polyketide synthase) or aptB (encoding a thioesterase) yields small, mishappen hyaline ascospores; while deletion of aptC (encoding a monooxygenase) yields morphologically normal but purple ascospores. ∆aptA and ∆aptB but not ∆aptC or wild type ascospores are extremely sensitive to UV light. We find that two historical ascospore color mutants, clA6 and clB1, possess mutations in aptA and aptB sequences, respectively.