bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison Between Numerical Flow3d Software and Laboratory Data, For Sediment Incipient Motion.
Authors: Kosaj Rasool , Alboresha Rafid S , Sulaiman Sadeq O
Published: January 2022

In this paper, the laboratory data were compared with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) Flow3D for predicting the beginning of sediment incipient motion in rigid boundary channel for two types of sands, irrigation, and sewer types, in rectangular flume (0.5*0.5)mcross-section. Tests were made for soil samples with different diameters, specific weights. The testing was performed in slopes ranging from 0.001-0.003 for irrigation types and 0.0025-0.025 for sewer types depending on the original parameter. The Flow-3D software has simulated the laboratory work using scouring models MPM and Nielsen. the relation between sediment incipient motion velocity, particle size, and channel bed slope was predicted. The results were relatively more than laboratory data for the MPM model, while grating convergence for Nielsen model, especially for small diameter sediment. Also, the laboratory results are more close to the results of Flow3D using the Nielsen model when the value of bed slope of the channel is greater, and vice versa when the slope decreases.
The Effect of Cow Dung Ash as A Filler on The Mechanical Characteristics of Hot Mix Asphalt
Authors: Abdulrasool Abdulrasool Thamer , Kadhim Yasir N. , Mohammad Hussain Wail Asim , Kashesh Ghazi Jalal , Abdulhussein Hayder Adnan
Published: January 2022

Highway pavements are being exposed to increasing traffic loads and severe environmental conditions, resulting in reduced service life. A lot of studies have been conducted to modify asphalt by using different materials, especially to replace the ordinary filler. Because the behaviour of the hot asphalt mix is influenced by the fillers. The use of unusual materials as fillers in asphalt mixes can help to improve the mix’s characteristics. As a result, this study uses cow dung ash materials with various replacement ratios as fillers to investigate the mechanical properties of asphalt. In the asphalt mix, a replacement percentage of limestone (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 80%, and 100%) was utilized. After that, various tests were performed such as Marshall stability, Marshall flow, voids in mineral aggregate, theoretical maximum specific gravity, air voids. The results revealed a significant improvement in the asphalt mix’s behaviour, as well as an increase in the replacement percentage. According to the findings, the 50% replacement rate has the highest Marshall stability which is equal to 11.11 with a 33.5% rise and the lowest flow of 3 with a 17.83% decrease when compared to the reference mix. As a result, cow dung ash can be used as a filler to modify the mechanical properties of the asphalt mix.
Effect of partial replacement of fine aggregate by internal curing materials on mechanical properties of concrete
Authors: Abdulrasool Abdulrasool Thamer , Rasheed Laith Sh. , Ridha Mahmmod Laith Mohammed , Mohammed Safaa S. , Kadhim Noor R.
Published: January 2022

Internal curing has long been utilized to decrease self-shrinkage and consequently the increased danger of concrete cracking prematurely. The measured mechanical characteristics of concrete were studied in five mixes, both with and without internal curing. Two of these mixtures have a 10% replacement rate, with one using ceramic and the other Attapulgite, while the other two have a 20% replacement, with one using ceramic and the other using Attapulgite, and the fifth is a reference mixture with no replacement for comparative reasons. With an increase of 27.93%, the ceramic combination with a 20% replacement rate is judged to have the highest compressive resistance, followed by the Attapulgite mixture with a 20% replacement rate with an increase of 34.2%. The results showed that the ceramic and Attapulgite internal curing purposes were highly effective, especially with a 20% replacement. The use of crushed ceramics and attapulgite as internal curing materials improves the characteristics of concrete.
Removing The Acid Orange 12 Azo Dye from Aqueous Solution Using Sodium Hypochlorite, A Kinetic and Thermodynamic Study
Authors: Hameed A. B. , Dekhyl A. B. , Sh. Alabdraba W. M.
Published: January 2022

This study investigated the feasibility of using sodium hypochlorite as an advanced oxidation process to remove Acid Orange 12 azo dye from wastewater. For this purpose, batch reactor experiments were done. Several variables to address the efficiency of using this process were considered. These variables are initial pH (5, 7, and 9), the concentration of hypochlorite (50 – 250 mg/l), temperature (20-50) degrees Celsius, and time of electrolysis (1-75) min. also investigate the effects of UV on the process was done. Experimental results showed that the color removal efficiency using NaOCl with UV is more effective than NaOCl alone. The highest removal efficiency was obtained by increasing the concentration of NaOCl from (50-250mg/l) at PH=5. When the solution temperature was increased from (20-50) °C, the removal efficiency increased, and at the same time, the time required was reduced from (20-5) minutes to obtain the highest removal efficiency. The kinetic study also showed that the oxidation process follows a second-order reaction. The thermodynamic functions indicate that the response is spontaneous, endothermic, and increases randomness.
Optimizing Coating Thickness of Electrophoretic Deposition Overlay on Plasma Sprayed YSZ Coating Using Taguchi Method
Authors: Abbas Ruqayah A. , Ajeel Sami A. , Ali Bash Maryam A. , Kadhim Mohammed J.
Published: January 2022

In this study, nano sized yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ) suspension in organic solution was deposited by electrophoretic deposition (EPD) method as a protective layer on substrate that was previously plasma sprayed thermal barrier coating (TBCs). In order to improve the performance of TBC from degradation by melt ingression of fuel impurities. Design of experiments (DOE) by Taguchi method was used to optimize the controlled variables of EPD process. A crack free YSZ overlay coating was carried out at different variables; applied voltage (20, 40, 60) V, deposition time (3, 5, 7) min and suspension concentration (5, 10, 15) g/l using DC current. Morphological appearance and cross section of the investigated coating specimen were done using optical and field emission scanning electron microscope. Optimizing process and analysis of variances (ANOVA) were performed by “Minitab 18” software. The results indicate that best condition of coating thickness can be obtained at 40V, 5min and 10g/l when applying signal-to-noise ratio “Larger is better”.
Numerical Performance of Energy Dissipation Slotted Plate for Bridge Unseating Prevention
Authors: Hamzah Mustafa Kareem , Hejazi Farzad
Published: January 2022

Recently, the bridge unseating prevention devices are widely used in active seismic zones. These devices are stiffness dependant, velocity dependant and energy dissipation devices. The energy dissipation devices are designed to overcome the energy that transfers from bridge substructure to superstructure. However, the current devices are not controlled to function with different ground motion intensities and should be replaced after yielding. Therefore, this research introduced a slotted plate energy dissipation device with three parts, each part function in known deformation range. The slotted plate behavior has been evaluated numerically by finite element method. Displacement control and load control analysis has been done, and then the effect of steel grade is studied to predict the suitable steel properties for designing the plate. Moreover, the slotted plate behavior is applied in 3D bridge seismic analysis to assess the multi-level performance and the ability to overcome the seismic effect on the bridge in longitudinal direction. The results approved the capability of the plate to dissipate energy in multi-stage of deformation. The lower steel grade is suitable for low to moderate earthquake zone and the high grade can be used in severe ground motion areas. Furthermore, the bridge longitudinal behavior has enhanced with different steel grades of the slotted plate.
Soil Quality Assessment Using Geomatics Techniques For The Garraf River Basin
Authors: Daoud Al-Shuwaili Jaafar Naji , Al-Shamri Hussein Musa
Published: January 2022

Overview of assessment in geographical areas (GIS) and model reviews, positioning (GNSS), positioning, this study was conducted for the purpose of estimating the soil quality of the Gharat River Basin in the north of Dhi Qar Governorate using geomatics techniques represented by geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing (RS) and positioning systems (GNSS). Which is about (90 km) from the city center. In nature soils and the correlation (B / C) reached (R2 = 0.907) for sand, while the clay was correlation with the range (B / R) and it was (R2 = 0.763) in While the correlation between the silt and the band (B/R) was recorded (R2 = 0.730), the ph record (7.8-8.42) as it was classified as a neutral slant to the basal and it was clear from the statistical analysis that there is a relationship with the range (C / B) as it reached (R2 = 0.583). The results showed a decrease in the values of soil samples between (0.2 - 1.7%) and the results of the analysis. 0.114% -0.197%) and the results of the statistical analysis showed the correlation of the range (C/NIR) and gypsum with a correlation value of (R2 = 0.686) in the proportion of lime ranged between (64.5% -21.5%) and the statistical analysis showed a correlation between calcium carbonate and the relativity of the range (C / NIR) as recorded (R2 = 0.513), the results of the analysis of samples from the study samples ranged between (26.86-395.55), and through the statistical analysis it was found that there is a relationship between the rate of sodium adsorption and the ratio of the bandwidth of the satellite visual correlation amounted to (R2 = 0.736), and it ranged The electrical conductivity values for the soils of the study area (5.79 -44.2 dS.m¯1) and it was a correlation (G / R) and the correlation value was (R2 = 0.602), the calcium values in the area. The study ranged between (400-1944 ppm) and the correlation numbering (R2 = 0.640) and the rates of magnesium in the study table ranged, the correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.602), the sodium record between (50-1307 ppm) and the correlation range was (C / NIR) ) Correlation coefficient reached (R2 = 0.920), calcium carbonate ratios were found in the study stations (64.5% -21.5%) and its ratio reached with the range (C / NIR) as the proportion of gypsum in the region was calculated. The correlation coefficient of gypsum and range (C / NIR) was calculated) where it reached (R2 = 0.686), the sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) was calculated and meals were between (26.86-395.5) and there was an association with the range (B / R + NIR) as it was recorded (R2 = 0.737)
Development Importance of The Regional Development Program (Comparative Study Between Babylon and Maysan Provinces For 2019)
Authors: Alshadidi H A S , Aldabiwee N S H
Published: January 2022

In this research, the relationship between the regional development program and achieving spatial development goals (a comparative study between Babylon and Maysan provinces for 2019) will be discussed, as well as the factors that lead to a kind of moderation in the development of the provinces, and whether these factors help to distribute the spatial budget between administrative units, based on the application of development fundamentals and in accordance with planning standards in order to achieve the development goals of the regional program. Distributed (100) forms divided into (n=50 samples of executives and administrators from Babylon province, n=50 samples of executives and administrators from Maysan province) who are employees working in different administrative units in both provinces. Applied the statistical package program for social sciences( statistical package for social science(SPSS) v.2 Through it, the link tool was used Correlation In applying this questionnaire, it was found that there is a correlation between the dimensions of the predictive variable program of the development of the regions and they are (institutional dimension, economic dimension, urban social dimension, environmental dimension), and also that there is a correlation between the dimensions of the predictive variable program of regional development and (spatial dimension) of the variable achieving the objectives of spatial development for the province of Babylon and Maysan. Based on the above, we have found that the improvement in the dimensions of the predictive variable program of the development of the provinces leads to the achievement of the objectives of spatial development and in accordance with the planning standards of the province of Babylon and Maysan, either weakness in the axes or dimensions of the predictive variable leads to weakness or failure to achieve development goals in the provinces of Babylon and Maysan.
Technologies Of Sustainability in Large Banks Buildings
Authors: Ayead Maab Hisham , Al-Tameemi Osamah Abdulmunem
Published: January 2022

Achieving energy efficiency is a very important step of applying the concepts of sustainability, this will reduce the financial costs that coming from energy consumption for the purposes of operating HVAC system so this concept will give a great effect on the environment and the economic aspects. Bank buildings are represented of the financial strength of the country, as they have a strong and direct impact on the reality of society and urban reality, and these buildings often consume a large amount of energy for cooling and heating purposes in the hot and dry climate of Iraq, so the research problem is focus on the knowledge deficiency of the importance of the role of technologies of sustainability in advancing the banking work at the design and performance level.

Therefore, the aim of research was to find the knowledge aspects of designing the external envelope of the banking building in a sustainable manner that contributes to achieving energy efficiency and reducing the negative impact of banking buildings on the environment, as a result technique of sustainability and technological developments have led to the change and innovation in designing an advanced environment in banking buildings, such as achieving communication in the work environment in addition to providing comfort to the occupants in it, and this will lead to improved performance and production.
Collective space on residential as a resilience measure to disaster mitigation earthquakes and liquefaction
Authors: Mulyati A , Najib M , Astha A M Y
Published: January 2022

Disasters have just hit Palu, Sigi, and Donggala, resulting in the fall of so many victims, not only humans but also city and village physicals (residential buildings, facilities, and infrastructure). Several villages hit by the disaster were hamlet 3 Vou, Langaleso village, Dolo sub-district, Jono Oge village, Biromaru sub-district, and Sigi district. The village’s condition was damaged, but most of the buildings and plants were lost to the mud. Settlement neighborhoods that should be full of activity are nowhere to be seen, and people become apathetic. They just accept this situation and are always waiting for help. Huntara, a form of assistance provided by funders, temporarily occupy the settlers’ land because the condition of the land or land needs to be cleared for the rebuilding process. The provision of inclusive spaces is one of the efforts to mitigate disasters in residential areas, namely public spaces that can be used by all settlers. These spaces must be safe and provide comfort, easy to reach, and become part of the residential environment. Village arrangement is one way that can be done to minimize the impact of a disaster. Arrangement of buildings, facilities, and environmental infrastructure are necessary not to create chaos in development. Also, aspects of environmentally friendly residential (village) spatial patterns, structural systems, and building construction that meet the requirements (SNI), the application of local and humane wisdom are no less important to consider in the process of procuring inclusive spaces in settlements, structuring villages, especially after a disaster.
Life cycle energy analysis of a green building in Vietnam
Authors: Le D L , Nguyen T Q , Pham H C
Published: January 2022

The paper presents the life cycle energy analysis (LCEA) of an office green building in Hanoi, Vietnam to prove the advantages of green buildings regarding energy efficiency and environmental effects. The case study building is a concrete structured one, which consists of 3 basements, 17 floors, and 1 attic with a gross area of 14,112 m2. In the study, the building’s embodied energy is determined based on the contained energy coefficient of the ith material and its quantity needed. Whereas, the operating energy is computed according to the annual energy consumption of the building, which is stimulated by the EnergyPlus simulation software. Relying on the relative share of the demolition energy with the life cycle energy that has been proposed by previous publications, this category will be estimated. Results showed that the initial embodied energy contributed the largest share to the life cycle energy (61.37%), followed by operational energy (27.61%). It also indicated that the percentage share of the operational energy of a green building is much lower than that of other buildings. The primary reason for this is associated with the usage of environmentally friendly materials and energy-saving equipment in the design option of the green building. Therefore, it can be convincing evidence that may help to change the mindset of decision-makers in Vietnam about green buildings.
Using virtual reality (VR) simulation to help developing a smart meeting space with AI Product to support moderator
Authors: Guo X , Shen Z , Teng X , Zhao Z
Published: January 2022

Smart building has a pivotal role in promoting the industrialization of buildings. Meeting room is a common type of public space. Developing a smart meeting space can play an important role in addressing the issue of research on smart building. In this paper, we develop a smart meeting space with AI product to support moderator. We create 3D model of the meeting room and import it into VR headset to having an experiment. 20 participants are engaged to answer questionnaire and have interview. The results of this study show that most of the participants think the meeting space we develop is smart than usual one. We also found that participants expect functions of smart meeting room in AI assistance, energy saving, smart display solution, remote meeting. And participants expect devices of smart meeting room in AI assistance product, sensors, and devices for remote meeting.
Revealing circular material flow in Terrazzo making process
Authors: Ujung V A , Wahid A R , Atmodiwirjo P
Published: January 2022

This paper investigates the value in material expression that reveals the material resource flow through terrazzo making process. The potential of the patterning process as a vital practice in terrazzo making is posed through attention to the use of salvaged elements and fragmented pieces of the material. They are an essential part of circular economy practice knowledge. The patterning process, such as reinforcement and recombination of salvaged materials is decreasing carbon emissions produced by fabricating new components of the terrazzo. Besides, the patterning process enables the materialization of the design intention and locals’ interests and particularities; in which it adds value to the material. This study was conducted through a workshop in Lombok, Indonesia, as part of an exhibition of architectural materials that were produced locally from earth-based ingredients. It is found that the value of sustainability lies in its ability to promote such circular strategies that can enable improved material resource efficiency as well as generate material value.
Extraction of Eu(III), Gd(III), and Tb(III) in aqueous two-phase systems based on polyethylene glycol 1500-NaNO3-H2O with the addition of extractants (D2EHPA, TBP, TOMAN)
Authors: Ya Fedorov A , Levina A V , Fedorova M I
Published: January 2022

Luminophores that used, for example, in fluorescent lamps, contain a large number of rare earth elements. Therefore, the processing of waste equipment containing luminophores is a rational approach to the obtaining of rare-earth metals, firstly, from the economics point of view, since they have a high cost, and secondly, from the ecological point of view, since environmental pollution will not occur. The cheapest way to extract rare earth elements from waste products is to dissolve them in strong acids and the following reprocessing by liquid extraction methods. In this case, neutral or ion exchange extractants (tributyl phosphate, di(2-ethylhexyl)phosphoric acid and quaternary ammonium salts) are used, which show high extraction ability and, in some cases, selectivity. Their applying is associated with the use of non-polar organic solvents, which contradicts the principles of «green» chemistry. A good and promising alternative to organic solvents can be aqueous two-phase systems, which have already proved themselves as low-toxic, but highly effective systems for the separation of a number of metals. Thus, in this work, we performed an experimental study of the interphase distribution of Eu(III), Gd(III), and Tb(III) in two-phase systems based on water-soluble polymers with or without the introduction of traditional organic extractants as an additive. The possibility of using such ATPS as a «green» solvent for traditional extragents for Eu(III), Gd(III), and Tb(III) extraction has been shown.
The effect of plastic type on the yield and quality of lignite and plastic waste pyrolysis products
Authors: Wijayanti H , Tuhuloula A , Subekti L , Aisyah M , Pitaloka I D , Nurmajidah Siti
Published: January 2022

Lignite is a low rank coal which has great potential in South Kalimantan. However, it has not been used optimally due to its low quality. One of the ways to improve it is pyrolysis. Pyrolysis is the thermal decomposition of organic material in the absence of oxygen which will produce three products (char, tar and gas). Pyrolysis can make lignite into liquid fuel (pyrolysis liquid), but it still requires improvement due to the need for pure hydrogen donors. Plastic waste has a higher hydrogen/carbon ratio than coal. This material can be used as an additive in the pyrolysis process because it is rich in hydrogen. The samples of plastic waste used were ppolyethylene (PE), ppolypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS). Samples of lignite and plastic (plastic composition was 25 wt%) were used for every experiment, and pyrolysis was carried out with a holding time of 60 minutes at 500°C. The pyrolysis liquid obtained is then analyzed for its yields and properties (density, kinematic viscosity, heating value). The most feasible result for fuel alternative was obtained with the addition of PE.
A new slip surface in noncohesive slopes
Authors: Repadi J A , Bari F , Ismail F A , Andriani A , Hakam A
Published: January 2022

Determining the slope slip surface is difficult, prominent and uncertain. Slip-surface are utilized to estimate slope safety. This study aimed at investigating the slip surface caused by statistical loads by using experimental testing methods. The experimental method was conducted by providing a statistical load on the sand slope The load was used until the slope collapsed. Sand slopes were modeled in a glass box measuring 110 cm x 40 cm x 10 cm. The sand material used was sand that passed through sieve no.10 and was held by sieve no. 200. At a distance of 2.5 cm horizontally and at a distance of 5 cm vertically, colored marks were used to see the pattern of grain movement. Observations were conducted until the slope collapsed. The collapse pattern revealed in the experimental method is non-circular.
Potential of tidal power plants with least square method on Toaya Beach
Authors: Azikin H , Nurhidayat  , Affandy E , Syahruddin S S
Published: January 2022

The use of energy, especially electrical power, is needed by the wider community— lots of alternative energy from nature, especially in Indonesia that can be utilized to produce electricity. One of the newest alternative examples is the energy produced by tides. Tidal energy is a type of renewable energy that is relatively more predictable in number. One method that can process the waves is the Least Square Method. Where the results of data processing using this method can be known based on tidal observations for 15 days on Toaya Beach located in Donggala Regency, Central Sulawesi, the types of tidal types that occur based on the results of Formzahl’s count is 0.357 that the tidal types that occur are varied types leaning to double daily, with a Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) of 0.028, which means that the difference between predictive results and observational data is accurate. Then also obtained the value of the design water level elevation that is the highest high water level (HHWL) is 2.7 meters, and the lowest low water level (LLWL) is -0.3 meters with a height difference is 3.0 meters. So with the high height difference, the total energy generated by two times a day with a sea area of 9 km2 which is capable of producing energy movement from seawater can be calculated the potential energy generated from the waves of Toaya Beach, which is 5,53 MW.
Centralised and decentralised data communication scheme for voltage regulation in DC Microgrids
Authors: Setiawan M A , Sulistyo E
Published: January 2022

Voltage regulation is one of the main control issues in DC Microgrids (MGs). To achieve voltage regulation in MGs, exchange information between distributed generation units (DG) is inevitable. There are two types of data exchange proposed and discussed, centralised and decentralised data communication schemes. Many papers in the literature did not give attention to the type of data communication infrastructure that will have a significant impact on both centralised and decentralised schemes. This paper proposes centralised and decentralised data communication scheme and their impact on voltage regulation in DC MGs. The dynamic performance of a DC MG with loads fluctuations, operating with the proposed technique, is evaluated through simulation analyses, realized in MATLAB. Both the proposed centralised and decentralised methods are able to maintain the voltage within acceptable limit during loads fluctuations; however the centralised method is around five times faster than the decentralised method. The results show the superiority of the proposed method for the DC MGs operations during load demands fluctuations, loads varieties, communication delays and structures.
loT-based temperature and humidity monitoring system for smart garden
Authors: Yanshori  , Nugraha D W , Santi D
Published: January 2022

The main objective of this paper is to design an IoT (Internet of Things) to monitor temperature and humidity for smart gardens. Temperature sensors and humidity sensors measure environmental conditions and are processed by a microcontroller. The actuator used is a spray pump that is used to spray water into the air to lower the temperature. Data from the sensors and status from the actuators are sent to the server and can be monitored via a smartphone. The data collected can be analyzed for various purposes. The result obtained is the effect of spraying on temperature reduction.
Designing simulation model for minimizing coal train unloading time: A case study of Kereta Api Logistik Company
Authors: Wijaya H , Ridwan A Y , Setyawan E B
Published: January 2022

The increase in coal production every year has influence the transport volume of coal trains of Kereta Api Logistik Company is getting higher. This increase causes the current number of train unloading equipment to be unable to keep up with this increase and has an impact on the poor performance of train unloading, which is indicated by the unachieved of train’s waiting time target. The coal train unloading system is a very complex system and many uncertainties occur, so the appropriate method to use is discrete event simulation. The simulation model is designed using the Simulation Arena software. The results of the simulation method are 4 alternative scenarios will be selected by the Bonferonni test. Scenario 4 has the highest reduction in train unloading operating time, which is 30.7%. The results of this study recommend the addition of a tool with a combination of 1 unit of Gantry Crane integrated with coal traveling hopper and 5 units of Dump Truck and for management, this recommendation can reduce high overtime costs every month and increase coal transport capacity so that coal transport profits will increase.
Survival and adverse events in patients with atrial fibrillation at left ventricular assist device implantation: an analysis of the European Registry for Patients with Mechanical Circulatory Support
Authors: Antonides Christiaan F J , Yalcin Yunus C , Veen Kevin M , Muslem Rahatullah , De By Theo M M H , Bogers Ad J J C , Gustafsson Finn , Caliskan Kadir
Published: January 2022

OBJECTIVES

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a risk factor for mortality and cerebrovascular accidents (CVAs) and is common in patients with heart failure. This study evaluated survival and adverse events in patients with a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and a history of AF in the European Registry for Patients with Mechanical Circulatory Support.

METHODS

Patients with a continuous-flow LVAD, AF or sinus rhythm (SR) and a follow-up were included. Kaplan–Meier analyses for survival (including a propensity-scored matched analysis), freedom from CVA, pump thrombosis, bleeding and a composite of pump thrombosis/CVA were performed. To correct for covariate imbalance, a Kaplan-Meier (KM) analysis was performed after propensity score (PS) matching the groups. Finally, a Cox regression was performed for predictors of lower survival.

RESULTS

Overall, 1821 patients (83% male) were included, with a median age of 57 years and a median follow-up of 13.1 months (interquartile range: 4.3–27.7). Preoperative Electrocardiogram (ECG) rhythm was AF in 421 (23.1%) and SR in 1400 (76.9%) patients. Patients with pre-LVAD AF had a lower ≤90-day (81.9% vs 87.1%, P = 0.0047) and 4-year (35.4% vs 44.2%, P = 0.0083) survival compared to SR. KM analysis with PS matching groups revealed a trend (P = 0.087) towards decreased survival. Univariable analyses confirmed pre-LVAD AF as a predictor for mortality, but the multivariable analysis did not. No difference in the rate of adverse events was found. An analysis of patients at 24 months revealed a higher rate of CVAs for pre-LVAD AF patients (77% vs 94.3%, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with pre-LVAD AF undergoing LVAD implantation had a worse survival. However, after performing a multivariate analysis, and PS matching analysis, AF was no longer significant, indicating a worser preoperative condition in these patients. Concerning thrombo-embolic events, only patients with pre-LVAD AF alive beyond 24 months have a higher risk of CVAs.
Circulatory hepcidin levels association with gestational diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Meka Soumya , Geddamuri Bala Ganesh , Varghese Bincy , Nath Bishamber , Vishwakarma Gayatri , Adela Ramu
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Hepcidin is linked to glucose metabolism in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). This systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to determine the association between hepcidin levels and GDM. A literature search was performed using different databases to identify potential studies investigating hepcidin association in GDM patients. The effect sizes were calculated based on the standardized mean difference (SMD) and Fisher’s Z value with a 95% confidence interval (CI).

Key findings

Out of 827 articles, only 7 case–control studies satisfied the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The pooled SMD of circulatory hepcidin levels in GDM patients was considerably higher than normal pregnant women (SMD = 1.69; 95% CI, 0.86 to 2.53; P < 0.0001). This study also observed that hepcidin levels were positively correlated with ferritin levels (r = 0.264; Z = 0.27; P < 0.0001). Furthermore, a subgroup analysis of serum and plasma groups revealed significantly higher hepcidin levels in serum (SMD = 2.12; 95% CI, 0.44 to3.79; P = 0.001) than in the plasma group (SMD = 1.28; 95% CI, 0.32 to 2.2; I2 = 96%).

Our findings suggest that hepcidin levels may be elevated in GDM patients, making it a viable marker for GDM diagnosis, and regular monitoring of its levels could be helpful in aiding clinical decisions.
Constraints on compact binary merger evolution from spin-orbit misalignment in gravitational-wave observations
Authors: Gompertz B P , Nicholl M , Schmidt P , Pratten G , Vecchio A
Published: January 2022

The identification of the first confirmed neutron star–black hole (NS-BH) binary mergers by the LIGO, Virgo, and KAGRA collaboration provides the opportunity to investigate the properties of the early sample of confirmed and candidate events. Here, we focus primarily on the tilt angle of the BH’s spin relative to the orbital angular momentum vector of the binary, and the implications for the physical processes that determine this tilt. The posterior tilt distributions of GW200115 and the candidate events GW190426_152155 and GW190917_114630 peak at significantly anti-aligned orientations (though display wide distributions). Producing these tilts through isolated binary evolution would require stronger natal kicks than are typically considered (and preferentially polar kicks would be ruled out), and/or an additional source of tilt such as stable mass transfer. The early sample of NS-BH events are less massive than expected for classical formation channels, and may provide evidence for efficient mass transfer that results in the merger of more massive NS-BH binaries before their evolution to the compact phase is complete. We predict that future gravitational-wave detections of NS-BH events will continue to display total binary masses of ≈7 M⊙ and mass ratios of q ∼ 3 if this interpretation is correct. Conversely, the high mass of the candidate GW191219_163120 suggests a dynamical capture origin. Large tilts in a significant fraction of merging NS-BH systems would weaken the prospects for electromagnetic detection. However, EM observations, including non-detections, can significantly tighten the constraints on spin and mass ratio.
Duplication and Specialization of NUDX1 in Rosaceae Led to Geraniol Production in Rose Petals
Authors: Conart Corentin , Saclier Nathanaelle , Foucher Fabrice , Goubert Clément , Rius-Bony Aurélie , Paramita Saretta N , Moja Sandrine , Thouroude Tatiana , Douady Christophe , Sun Pulu , Nairaud Baptiste , Saint-Marcoux Denis , Bahut Muriel , Jeauffre Julien , Hibrand Saint-Oyant Laurence , Schuurink Robert C , Magnard Jean-Louis , Boachon Benoît , Dudareva Natalia , Baudino Sylvie , Caissard Jean-Claude
Published: January 2022

Nudix hydrolases are conserved enzymes ubiquitously present in all kingdoms of life. Recent research revealed that several Nudix hydrolases are involved in terpenoid metabolism in plants. In modern roses, RhNUDX1 is responsible for formation of geraniol, a major compound of rose scent. Nevertheless, this compound is produced by monoterpene synthases in many geraniol-producing plants. As a consequence, this raised the question about the origin of RhNUDX1 function and the NUDX1 gene evolution in Rosaceae, in wild roses or/and during the domestication process. Here, we showed that three distinct clades of NUDX1 emerged in the Rosoidae subfamily (Nudx1-1 to Nudx1-3 clades), and two subclades evolved in the Rosa genus (Nudx1-1a and Nudx1-1b subclades). We also showed that the Nudx1-1b subclade was more ancient than the Nudx1-1a subclade, and that the NUDX1-1a gene emerged by a trans-duplication of the more ancient NUDX1-1b gene. After the transposition, NUDX1-1a was cis-duplicated, leading to a gene dosage effect on the production of geraniol in different species. Furthermore, the NUDX1-1a appearance was accompanied by the evolution of its promoter, most likely from a Copia retrotransposon origin, leading to its petal-specific expression. Thus, our data strongly suggest that the unique function of NUDX1-1a in geraniol formation was evolved naturally in the genus Rosa before domestication.
SABCS 2021 Insights on Breast Cancer Research: An Interview with Dr. Laura Spring
Authors: Jacobson Anne
Published: January 2022

Laura Spring, MD, a clinical investigator and breast medical oncologist at Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, shared insights on breast cancer research presented at the 2021 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium (SABCS).
Outcome predictors of immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy—a retrospective, multicentre study
Authors: Wang Jeremy X , Wilkinson Michael , Oldmeadow Christopher , Limaye Vidya , Major Gabor
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Evidence-based treatment protocols are currently lacking for immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM). In this multicentre retrospective study, we examined baseline clinical characteristics and treatment variables that may predict short-term outcomes of patients with IMNM.

Methods

Muscle biopsies from the John Hunter Hospital and the Royal Adelaide Hospital obtained between 2012 and 2019 were reviewed at a single laboratory at South Australia Pathology. All biopsies with histological features of IMNM were identified. Demographics of study subjects, clinical information and myositis-specific antibody status were recorded along with muscle strength, serum creatine kinase (CK) and treatment regimens at baseline and 3 and 6 months. Primary outcome measures were muscle strength and serum CK at 3 and 6 months. Mixed-effects regression models in a Bayesian framework were performed using the R statistical package.

Results

Female sex, older age, initial prednisone dose and i.v. methylprednisolone were associated with greater improvement in serum CK. In patients with moderate–severe disease at baseline, early IVIG was associated with greater improvement in hip flexor strength at 6 months.

Conclusion

Early IVIG was associated with clinical improvement in the short-term follow-up in IMNM. Female sex, older age, initial oral prednisone dose and initial use of i.v. methylprednisolone were associated with better biochemical improvement.
Hyperresponsive cytosolic DNA-sensing pathway in monocytes from primary Sjögren’s syndrome
Authors: Huijser Erika , Bodewes Iris L A , Lourens Mirthe S , van Helden-Meeuwsen Cornelia G , van den Bosch Thierry P P , Grashof Dwin G B , van de Werken Harmen J G , Lopes Ana P , van Roon Joel A G , van Daele Paul L A , Brkic Zana , Dik Willem A , Versnel Marjan A
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Cytosolic DNA-sensing pathway stimulation prompts type I IFN (IFN-I) production, but its role in systemic IFN-I pathway activation in primary SS (pSS) is poorly studied. Here we investigate the responsiveness of pSS monocytes and plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDCs) to stimulator of interferon genes (STING) activation in relation to systemic IFN-I pathway activation and compare this with SLE.

Methods

Expression of DNA-sensing receptors cGAS, IFI16, ZBP-1 and DDX41, signalling molecules STING, TBK1 and IRF3, positive and negative STING regulators, and IFN-I-stimulated genes MxA, IFI44, IFI44L, IFIT1 and IFIT3 was analysed in whole blood, CD14+ monocytes, pDCs, and salivary glands by RT-PCR, monocyte RNA sequencing data, flow cytometry and immunohistochemical staining. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from pSS, SLE and healthy controls (HCs) were stimulated with STING agonist 2′3′-cGAMP. STING phosphorylation (pSTING) and intracellular IFNα were evaluated using flow cytometry.

Results

STING activation induced a significantly higher proportion of IFNα-producing monocytes, but not pDCs, in both IFN-low and IFN-high pSS compared with HC PBMCs. Additionally, a trend towards more pSTING+ monocytes was observed in pSS and SLE, most pronounced in IFN-high patients. Positive STING regulators TRIM38, TRIM56, USP18 and SENP7 were significantly higher expression in pSS than HC monocytes, while the dual-function STING regulator RNF26 was downregulated in pSS monocytes. STING was expressed in mononuclear infiltrates and ductal epithelium in pSS salivary glands. STING stimulation induced pSTING and IFNα in pSS and SLE pDCs.

Conclusion

pSS monocytes and pDCs are hyperresponsive to stimulation of the STING pathway, which was not restricted to patients with IFN-I pathway activation.
A Within-Subject Before-After Study of the Impact of Antidepressants on Hemoglobin A1c and Low-Density Lipoprotein Levels in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Rohde Christopher , Thomsen Reimar W. , Østergaard Søren D.
Published: January 2022

Purpose/Background

Data on the effect of treatment with antidepressant drugs on metabolic control in diabetes are sparse. In this controlled within-subject before-after study, the impact of initiation and discontinuation of antidepressant treatment on hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels in type 2 diabetes was estimated.

Methods/Procedures

All individuals with newly developed type 2 diabetes (first HbA1c ≥ 6.5%) between 2000 and 2016 in Northern and Central Denmark were identified using register-based health care data. Among these, we identified individuals initiating and discontinuing antidepressant treatment. Using a within-subject before-after design, we examined HbA1c and LDL in the 16 months leading up to and the 16 months after antidepressant treatment initiation or discontinuation, respectively. For comparison, we ran similar time trend analyses in a reference population of age- and sex-matched type 2 diabetes individuals not receiving antidepressant treatment.

Findings/Results

Mean HbA1c decreased after initiation of antidepressant treatment (−0.16%; 95% confidence interval [CI], −0.18 to −0.13%). In the reference population, no material change in HbA1c over time (−0.03%; 95% CI, −0.04 to −0.01%) was seen. Mean LDL decreased not only in antidepressant initiators (−0.17 mmol/L; 95% CI, −0.19 to −0.15 mmol/L) but also in the reference population (−0.15 mmol/L; 95% CI, −0.16 to −0.13 mmol/L). Among antidepressant discontinuers, there was also a decrease in HbA1c (−0.32%; 95% CI, −0.37 to −0.28%), with no change in the reference population (−0.02%; 95% CI, −0.04 to 0.00%). Decreases in LDL were found both in antidepressant discontinuers (−0.09 mmol/L; 95% CI, −0.14 to −0.04 mmol/L) and in the reference population (−0.16 mmol/L0; 95% CI, −0.18 to −0.13 mmol/L).

Implications/Conclusions

Antidepressant treatment in type 2 diabetes may have a beneficial effect on glycemic control, as the decrease in HbA1c after discontinuation of antidepressants likely reflects remission of depression. Conversely, antidepressant treatment does not seem to affect LDL levels.
Monthly Trauma Training and Simulation Are Associated With Improved Resident Skill and Leadership
Authors: Park Caroline , Lin I-Chun , Grant Jennifer L. , Dultz Linda A. , Johnson Della , Jeter Shannon , Abdelfattah Kareem , Luk Stephen , Cripps Michael , Dumas Ryan P.
Published: January 2022

BACKGROUND:

Training for trauma procedures has been limited to infrequent courses with little data on longitudinal performance, and few address procedural and leadership skills with granular assessment. We implemented a novel training program that emphasized an assessment of trauma resuscitation and procedural skills.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aimed to determine whether this program could demonstrate improvement in both skill sets in surgical trainees over time.

METHODS:

This was a prospective, observational study at a Level I trauma center between November 2018 and May 2019. A procedural skill and simulation program was implemented to train and evaluate postgraduate year (PGY) 1–5 residents. All residents participated in an initial course on procedures such as tube thoracostomy and vascular access, followed by a final evaluation. Skills were assessed by the Likert scale (1–5, 5 noting mastery). PGY 3s and above were additionally evaluated on resuscitation. A paired t test was performed on repeat learners.

RESULTS:

A total of 40 residents participated in the structured procedural skills and simulation program. Following completion of the program, PGY-2 scores increased from a Mdn [interquartile range, IQR] 3.0 [2.5–4.0] to 4.5 [4.2–4.5]. The PGY-3 scores increased from a Mdn [IQR] 3.95 [3.7–4.6] to 4.8 [4.6–5.0]. Eighteen residents underwent repeat simulation training, with Mdn [IQR] score increases in PGY 2s (3.7 [2.5–4.0] to end score 4.47 [4.0–4.5], p = .03) and PGY 3s (3.95 [3.7–4.6] to end score 4.81 [4.68–5.0], p = .04). Specific procedural and leadership skills also increased over time.
Anorectal Manometry in Children
Authors: Strisciuglio Caterina , Banasiuk Marcin , Salvatore Silvia , Borrelli Osvaldo , Staiano Annamaria , Van Wijk Michiel , Vandenplas Yvan , Benninga Marc A. , Thapar Nikhil
Published: January 2022

Anorectal disorders are common in children. They are related to structural and/or functional abnormalities of the anorectum or pelvic floor with a variety of symptoms. Therefore, diagnostic tests to evaluate anorectal function can help to better understand the underlying pathophysiology and aetiology as well as facilitate patient management. During the past decades, substantial efforts have been made to improve anorectal function testing; however, more advanced investigations might lead to difficulties in interpretation. Additionally, a great diversity of equipment and protocols are used among centres, which may lead to heterogeneous interpretation of results. More studies to standardize methods of testing and validate reference values are strongly recommended in children. This review updates on the current indications and the protocol of anorectal manometry.
Factors Associated With Oral Mucositis Severity in Children Who Have Received Chemotherapy
Authors: Hurrell Lloyd , Burgoyne Laura L. , Logan Richard M. , Revesz Tamas , Gue Sam
Published: January 2022

Oral mucositis (OM) is a major complication for pediatric oncology patients undergoing cancer therapy. This paper aimed to report on the relationship between OM severity and various patient factors as well as to compare 2 scales used to assess OM severity. The severity of 68 separate episodes of OM in 47 pediatric oncology patients who had received chemotherapy was regularly assessed using the Children’s International Mucositis Evaluation Scale (ChIMES) and World Health Organization (WHO) scale. The mean time from the start of the patients’ chemotherapy block to the onset of OM was 8.4 days (±4.0), the median duration of OM was 7.0 days (4.0, 10.5) and median admission duration was 7.0 days (4.5, 13.5). There was a significant relationship between the severity of OM and the duration of symptoms (P<0.001), patient’s admission length (P<0.001) and low neutrophil count. With decreasing neutrophil count, the severity of OM and number of pain medications used increased. Neutrophil count recovery coincided with resolution of OM. No significant relationship was found between OM severity and the child’s cancer diagnosis. The 2 scales used to measure OM severity showed substantial agreement.
Infantile Stage M Neuroblastoma With 11q Deletion, Mimicking Stage MS
Authors: Yoshimoto Suzuki Yuri , Yamanaka Junko , Miyazaki Osamu , Nozawa Kumiko , Ohira Miki , Kamijo Takehiko , Shichino Hiroyuki
Published: January 2022

A 4-month-old boy with abdominal distension was diagnosed with adrenal neuroblastoma with numerous metastases to the liver and nodules in the skin and muscles. Marked hepatomegaly spontaneously regressed with decreasing tumor marker levels, and the final diagnosis was stage M based on radiologic findings confirming metastasis to the pancreas. The neuroblastoma did not have the MYCN amplification but had an 11q aberration. Chemotherapy was initiated at age 6 months with a successful response. Our case reflects the heterogenous clinical behavior of neuroblastoma and highlights the challenging issue of the difference between stage M and stage MS neuroblastoma in infants.