bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of co-mixed HIP wasteforms for Magnox sludge and clinoptilolite wastes
Authors: Walling S A , Gardner L J , Hyatt N C 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Co-mixed simulant wasteforms consisting of calcined Magnox sludge simulant and clinoptilolite, with additions of a glass forming frit and CeO2 or U3O8 were processed using Hot Isostatic Pressing (HIP). This enabled the production of high waste loaded materials, with the successful incorporation of both simulant and active material. These formed heterogeneous glass-ceramic products, with decomposition of raw materials and some vitreous phase formation. The aqueous durability of these materials was assessed over a 28-day period using a modified PCT test, and favourably compared to the durability of an international glass. Overall this verifies the potential for HIP technology to be used in wasteform production, with potential large reductions in waste volume, especially if co-mixed wastes are considered.
The HADES Facility for High Activity Decommissioning Engineering & Science: part of the UK National Nuclear User Facility
Authors: Hyatt N C , Corkhill C L , Stennett M C , Hand R J , Gardner L J , Thorpe C L 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Research and innovation is key to delivering UK Government’s civil nuclear energy policy, in particular to accelerate reduction in the hazard, timescale and cost of legacy decommissioning and geological disposal of radioactive wastes. To address this challenge, a national centre of excellence, the HADES Facility, has been established to support research and innovation in High Activity Decommissioning Engineering & Science, as part of the wider network of UK National Nuclear User Facilities. Herein, we describe the development of this user facility, the current status of its capability, and functional equipment specifications. The unique capabilities of the HADES Facility, in the UK academic landscape, are emphasised, including: handling of weighable quantities of 99Tc and transuranics; quantitative electron probe microanalysis of radioactive materials; hot isostatic pressing of radioactive materials; and laboratory-based X-ray absorption and emission spectroscopy. An example case study of the application of the HADES capability is described, involving thermal treatment of a real radioactive ion exchange resin waste to produce a conceptual vitrified waste form.
Shape memory effect of polymeric composite materials filled with NiMnSbB shape memory alloy for textile materials
Authors: Topel-Zeren Esra , Akşit Aysun , Aydoğdu Yıldırım 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
The aim of the study was to obtain a smart textile material with shape memory alloys. NiMn-based shape memory alloy was produced by arc melting system for this purpose. Phase transition temperatures of the fabricated alloy were determined by using differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The crystallographic structure of the fabricated alloy was characterized by x-ray diffractometer (XRD). The fabricated shape memory alloy was converted to the particle form and filled into polymer matrix to obtain shape memory effect of this polymeric composite material. Polymeric composites (PCs) were produced in film form and shape training of PCs were studied under different conditions. The shape memory behavior of samples was investigated into the water for fast response during applying heat. Damping capacity of composites was measured by using dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA) according to temperature rising. The shape recovery was observed under certain stimuli on the SMA filled polymeric composites.
Certification of a functionality in a quantum network stage
Authors: Lipinska Victoria , Thinh Lê Phuc , Ribeiro Jérémy , Wehner Stephanie 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
We consider testing the ability of quantum network nodes to execute multi-round quantum protocols. Specifically, we examine protocols in which the nodes are capable of performing quantum gates, storing qubits and exchanging said qubits over the network a certain number of times. We propose a simple ping-pong test, which provides a certificate for the capability of the nodes to run certain multi-round protocols. We first show that in the noise-free regime the only way the nodes can pass the test is if they do indeed possess the desired capabilities. We then proceed to consider the case where operations are noisy, and provide an initial analysis showing how our test can be used to estimate parameters that allow us to draw conclusions about the actual performance of such protocols on the tested nodes. Finally, we investigate the tightness of this analysis using example cases in a numerical simulation.
Projections of declining outdoor skating availability in Montreal due to global warming
Authors: Dickau Mitchell , Matthews Damon , Guertin Étienne , Seto Donny 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Outdoor skating is a valued and culturally important winter activity in Canada that is vulnerable to warming winter temperatures resulting from anthropogenic climate change. Changes to the outdoor skating season (OSS) due to climate change have been estimated from historical weather records using the occurrence of daily temperatures below a particular temperature threshold as a proxy for rink availability. However, research on the actual weather conditions needed for outdoor rinks to be maintained in reasonable condition is limited. In this study, we used historical weather data and daily reports on outdoor rinks in Montréal to identify which daily or multi-day temperature variable can best act as an indicator of outdoor ice rink availability. We evaluated a series of temperature variables using a logistic regression to predict the likelihood of open rinks during each day of the season. Using AIC scores to select the best model, we found that the mean of the preceding six-day maximum temperature was the best predictor of skating availability. Using this temperature predictor, we then projected changes in the duration of the future OSS in Montréal based on global climate model data, downscaled to the island of Montréal using the MarkSim Weather Generator. Our results showed that the mean OSS duration in Montréal would range from a 15% to a >75% decline by 2090 depending on which future emissions scenario we follow. In a scenario that limits global temperature rise to below 2.0 °C (RCP 2.6), we projected a 41 day mean OSS duration at the end of this century. By contrast, under a business-as-usual emissions pathway (RCP 8.5), the average length of the OSS in Montréal could decline to only 11 days per year. Our results suggest that very ambitious climate change mitigation will be required to preserve outdoor skating in Montréal in the face of ongoing global climate change.
Sequence repetitiveness quantification and de novo repeat detection by weighted k-mer coverage
Authors: Feng Cong , Dai Min , Liu Yongjing , Chen Ming 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
DNA repeats are abundant in eukaryotic genomes and have been proved to play a vital role in genome evolution and regulation. A large number of approaches have been proposed to identify various repeats in the genome. Some de novo repeat identification tools can efficiently generate sequence repetitive scores based on k-mer counting for repeat detection. However, we noticed that these tools can still be improved in terms of repetitive score calculation, sensitivity to segmental duplications and detection specificity. Therefore, here, we present a new computational approach named Repeat Locator (RepLoc), which is based on weighted k-mer coverage to quantify the genome sequence repetitiveness and locate the repetitive sequences. According to the repetitiveness map of the human genome generated by RepLoc, we found that there may be relationships between sequence repetitiveness and genome structures. A comprehensive benchmark shows that RepLoc is a more efficient k-mer counting based tool for de novo repeat detection. The RepLoc software is freely available at http://bis.zju.edu.cn/reploc.
Activity or connectivity? A randomized controlled feasibility study evaluating neurofeedback training in Huntington’s disease
Authors: Papoutsi Marina , Magerkurth Joerg , Josephs Oliver , Pépés Sophia E , Ibitoye Temi , Reilmann Ralf , Hunt Nigel , Payne Edwin , Weiskopf Nikolaus , Langbehn Douglas , Rees Geraint , Tabrizi Sarah J 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Non-invasive methods, such as neurofeedback training, could support cognitive symptom management in Huntington’s disease by targeting brain regions whose function is impaired. The aim of our single-blind, sham-controlled study was to collect rigorous evidence regarding the feasibility of neurofeedback training in Huntington’s disease by examining two different methods, activity and connectivity real-time functional MRI neurofeedback training. Thirty-two Huntington’s disease gene-carriers completed 16 runs of neurofeedback training, using an optimized real-time functional MRI protocol. Participants were randomized into four groups, two treatment groups, one receiving neurofeedback derived from the activity of the supplementary motor area, and another receiving neurofeedback based on the correlation of supplementary motor area and left striatum activity (connectivity neurofeedback training), and two sham control groups, matched to each of the treatment groups. We examined differences between the groups during neurofeedback training sessions and after training at follow-up sessions. Transfer of training was measured by measuring the participants’ ability to upregulate neurofeedback training target levels without feedback (near transfer), as well as by examining change in objective, a priori defined, behavioural measures of cognitive and psychomotor function (far transfer) before and at 2 months after training. We found that the treatment group had significantly higher neurofeedback training target levels during the training sessions compared to the control group. However, we did not find robust evidence of better transfer in the treatment group compared to controls, or a difference between the two neurofeedback training methods. We also did not find evidence in support of a relationship between change in cognitive and psychomotor function and learning success. We conclude that although there is evidence that neurofeedback training can be used to guide participants to regulate the activity and connectivity of specific regions in the brain, evidence regarding transfer of learning and clinical benefit was not robust.
Early Risk Factors for the Duration of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Viral Positivity in Patients With Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Lin Aifen , He Ze-Bao , Zhang Sheng , Zhang Jian-Gang , Zhang Xia , Yan Wei-Hua 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Background
Pneumonia coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has became a pandemic. However, information on early risk factors for the duration of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) viral positivity is not yet available.

Methods
In this prospective study, a cohort of 137 patients with confirmed SARS-CoV-2 were enrolled. Clinical information and laboratory data were retrieved from electronic medical records. Viral positivity duration was calculated by the interval from the day of confirmed SARS-CoV-2 positive results to the day SARS-CoV-2 testing showed negative results in these 137 patients with COVID-19. Early risk factors for the duration of SARS-CoV-2 viral positivity were evaluated.

Results
The median SARS-CoV-2 viral positivity duration is 12 days (range, 4 to ~45) for this cohort. Cox regression results showed a significantly shorter viral positivity duration was related to younger age (hazard ratio [HR], .658; P = .017); disease not being severe (HR, .653; P = .076); higher lymphocyte (HR, 1.464; P = .033), eosinophil (HR, 1.514; P = .020), and CD8+ T-cell (HR, 1.745; P = .033) counts; and lower IL-6 (HR, .664; P = .036) and IL-10 (HR, .631; P = .021). Multivariate analysis with covariable-adjusted results showed that the CD8+ T-cell count (HR, 2.376; P= .114) was a predominant risk factor for the duration of SARS-CoV-2 viral positivity.

Conclusions
Our findings show early laboratory parameters such as CD8+ T-cell count to be risk factors for the duration of SARS-CoV-2 viral positivity, which has significance in the control and prevention of the disease.
Severe acute respiratory SARS-CoV-2 infection in dialysis patients in northern Italy: a single-centre experience
Authors: Fontana Francesco , Giaroni Francesco , Frisina Monica , Alfano Gaetano , Mori Giacomo , Lucchi Leonardo , Magistroni Riccardo , Cappelli Gianni 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Background
Dialysis patients are considered at high risk for COVID-19 and the infection can easily spread in dialysis units.

Methods
We conducted an observational single-centre cohort study to describe clinical characteristics, treatments and outcomes of dialysis patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. We tested patients who presented symptoms or had contact with a confirmed case. We enrolled 15 patients positive for SARS-CoV-2.

Results
We tested 37 of 306 dialysis patients. Patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection were older (mean age 75.96 ± 11.09 years) and all had comorbidities. At presentation, most had interstitial infiltrates on chest X-ray, three-quarters had leucopenia and none had respiratory insufficiency. During follow-up, there was an increase in serum C-reactive protein and interleukin-6. Eighty percent of patients received supplemental oxygen; none received non-invasive ventilation, one was intubated. Most patients (80%) were treated with oral hydroxychloroquine for a median time of 6.5 days [interquartile range (IQR) 5–14.5] and 40% received azithromycin; two patients received a short course of antivirals and one received a single dose of tocilizumab. Only two patients did not require hospitalization. Of the nine survivors, eight still tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 a median of 19 days (IQR 9.25–23) after diagnosis. Six patients died (case fatality rate 40%) a median of 5.5 days (IQR 1.75–9.75) after diagnosis. The main reported cause of death was respiratory failure related to COVID-19 (five patients).

Conclusions
We report a single-centre experience of SARS-CoV-2 infection in dialysis patients. The disease showed a high case fatality rate and most patients required hospitalization. Survivors show prolonged viral shedding.
A Reconsideration of the Role of Demand in Malthus’s Theory of Accumulation*
Authors: Smith Matthew 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
This paper is concerned with the role of effective demand in Malthus’s theory of accumulation expounded in his Principles of Political Economy. As is well known, Keynes praised Malthus for being a forerunner in identifying a lack of effective demand as a cause of depression in economic activity and a constraint on growth. There have since been many interpretations in the literature of Malthus’s position by reference to his arguments against Say’s Law in contending the possibility of “general gluts” and to his theory of capital accumulation. We begin by examining Malthus’s conception of the supply-side factors that determine what we call, “potential accumulation”, being accumulation that is not constrained by demand. The paper then considers the role of effective demand in Malthus’s well known contention of the possibility of “general gluts” and, connectedly, in his theory of demand-constrained capital accumulation. On this basis, we then appraise whether Malthus’s theory anticipates Keynes’s principle of effective demand by reference to the debate on this question in the literature, showing that while Malthus lacked a meaningful saving-investment analysis, he does provide insights important to the modern demand-led approach to growth.
The Aggregation Pheromone of Metamasius spinolae (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae) Revisited: Less is More
Authors: Malo Edi A , Gutiérrez-Escobar Verónica , Castrejón-Ayala Federico , Rojas Julio C 
Published: April 2020

AbstractThe weevil Metamasius spinolae (Gyllenhal) is the most important insect pest of cultivated prickly pear in Mexico. A previous work reported that the pheromone of this weevil species was composed by three components. In this study, we reinvestigated the aggregation pheromone of M. spinolae using gas chromatography-electroantennography and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry to locate and identify new potential pheromonal compounds. The behavioral activity of identified compounds was evaluated in laboratory and field trials. Metamasius spinolae males released four compounds: 2-methyl-4-heptanone, 6-methyl-2-hepten-4-one, 2-methyl-4-octanone, and 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-4-heptanone. In the laboratory assays, depending on the concentration, the compounds were attractive, neutral, or repellent to M. spinolae. Field evaluation showed that traps baited with 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-4-heptanone singly or in most of the binary or tertiary blends where this compound was present captured a higher number of M. spinolae compared to live males and the other compounds identified. In conclusion, our results indicate that 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-4-heptanone is the main component of the aggregation pheromone of M. spinolae. We suggest that this compound should be used for developing a monitoring or a mass-trapping system for M. spinolae.
Improvised ensemble counterpoint: on the notation of the bass in Agostino Agazzari’s Eumelio (1606)
Authors: Hall Matthew J 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Unfigured basslines serve as the starting points for collective improvisation in several sections of Agostino Agazzari’s Eumelio (1606). Agazzari makes clear that musicians used such basslines for effective ensemble improvisations in his well-known treatise Del sonare sopra’l basso con tutti li stromenti (1607) and in other contemporaneous documents. Gloria Rose has identified isolated examples of written ‘tablatures of the bass’, or contrapuntal templates from which ensembles improvised. However, analysis of the harmonic and modal parameters of the vocal monody in Eumelio shows how constrained the possibilities for improvisation actually were, indicating that the training of musicians c.1600 prepared them to improvise collectively from a bassline, even without such written tablatures. Some aspects of historical musicianship could lead to successful and enjoyable collective improvisation today, suggesting ways to bridge the gap between the contrapuntal training of modern and past musicians.
A Piece of History: The Legacy of George W. Counts and Underrepresented Populations
Authors: Berthaud Vladimir , Hewlett Dial 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
The fight for social justice and diversity in medicine stems from racial inequalities and discrimination that have permeated our society for centuries. As America has become more diverse in recent years, African American physicians remain largely underrepresented in the healthcare workforce and academic medicine. In the field of infectious diseases, one man, George W. Counts, has shouldered the struggle to end disparities in education, training, research, and academic advancement. This article celebrates his legacy and rekindles the discussion about inclusion, diversity, access, and equity in infectious diseases.
Point-of-Care Therapeutic Drug Monitoring for Precision Dosing of Immunosuppressive Drugs
Authors: Taddeo Adriano , Prim Denis , Bojescu Elena-Diana , Segura Jean-Manuel , Pfeifer Marc E 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Background
Immunosuppressive drugs (ISD) are an essential tool in the treatment of transplant rejection and immune-mediated diseases. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) for determination of ISD concentrations in biological samples is an important instrument for dose personalization for improving efficacy while reducing side effects. While currently ISD concentration measurements are performed at specialized, centralized facilities, making the process complex and laborious for the patient, various innovative technical solutions have recently been proposed for bringing TDM to the point-of-care (POC).

Content
In this review, we evaluate current ISD-TDM and its value, limitations, and proposed implementations. Then, we discuss the potential of POC-TDM in the era of personalized medicine, and provide an updated review on the unmet needs and available technological solutions for the development of POC-TDM devices for ISD monitoring. Finally, we provide concrete suggestions for the generation of a meaningful and more patient-centric process for ISD monitoring.

Summary
POC-based ISD monitoring may improve clinical care by reducing turnaround time, by enabling more frequent measurements in order to obtain meaningful pharmacokinetic data (i.e., area under the curve) faster reaction in case of problems and by increasing patient convenience and compliance. The analysis of the ISD-TDM field prompts the evolution of POC testing toward the development of fully integrated platforms able to support clinical decision-making. We identify 4 major areas requiring careful combined implementation: patient usability, data meaningfulness, clinicians’ acceptance, and cost-effectiveness.
Preoperative Localization of Breast MRI Lesions: MRI-guided Marker Placement With Radioactive Seed Localization as an Alternative to MRI-guided Wire Localization
Authors: Saphier Nicole , Kondraciuk Jessica , Morris Elizabeth , Bernard-Davila Blanca , Mango Victoria 
Published: April 2020

Abstract

Objective
Preoperative MRI-guided wire localization (MWL) presents challenges to both the physician and patient. In this study, we examined the efficiency and outcome of MRI-guided marker placement followed by mammographic-guided radioactive seed localization (MMP/RSL) as an alternative localization method. The primary outcome parameter was pathology upon excision. The secondary outcome parameters were total procedure time and clinical indication for localization.

Methods
A retrospective review of a large tertiary cancer center’s breast imaging database was performed. Records of 21 patients with MMP/RSL (24 markers) from August 2013 to January 2019 were compared with 34 patients receiving MWL (48 wires) from January 2016 to January 2019. Multiple factors, including age, prelocalization pathology, postsurgical pathology, concordance, re-excision rates, and total procedure time required for each technique, were compared. Univariate and descriptive statistical analyses were performed.

Results
Mean patient age in years (MMP/RSL = 54.1 ± 13.1, MWL = 55.1 ± 10.8, P = 0.389), time in MR scanner in minutes (MMP/RSL = 31.7 ± 12.0, MWL = 35.8 ± 13.1, P = 0.678), and postsurgical pathology malignancy rates (MMP/RSL = 71.4%, MWL = 65.7%, P = 0.7715) were similar without statistically significant differences. As expected, the mean total procedure time was slightly longer without a statistically significant difference (47.3 ± 19.8 min versus 35.8 ± 13.1 min, P = 0.922) for the MMP/RSL group. All patients in both groups underwent successful localization with 100% radiologic-pathology concordance. Re-excision rates were lower for the MMP/RSL group (9.5%) versus the MWL group (16.7%); however, they were not found to be statistically significant (P = 0.7104).

Conclusion
MMP/RSL is a feasible alternative to MWL and may alleviate many challenges presented by MWL. Further studies are needed.
First Report of Nipaecoccus viridis (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) Associated with Citrus Production in the United States
Authors: Diepenbrock Lauren M , Ahmed Muhammad Z 
Published: April 2020

Abstract
Nipeacoccus viridis (Newstead), is an invasive, polyphagous mealybug pest recently found causing damage in citrus production fields in several counties in Florida, United States. In this short communication, we document the finding of this pest, its associated damage in citrus groves, and provide basic diagnostic and scouting information. Nipaecoccus viridis is a pest of concern, necessitating the quick development of management tools.