bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Reactive magnetron sputtering of TiN-Pb coatings using two metal targets
Authors: Lozovan A A , Lyakhovetsky M A , Pavlov Yu S , Kostrin D K 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
One of the promising areas of application of the magnetron co-sputtering method using two separate targets in a reactive atmosphere is to increase the tribological properties of friction pairs by applying composite solid lubricant coatings consisting of a solid matrix and a soft lubricant. In this paper, we study the dependence of the parameters of TiN-Pb coatings obtained by co-spraying of separate Ti and Pb targets in a mixture of Ar and N gases on pressure. The factors that have a significant impact on the process of coating deposition were also determined.
Thermal stability of the hypereutectic silumin structure subjected to a pulsed electron beam treatment
Authors: Petrikova E A , Ivanov Yu F , Teresov A D , Rygina M E 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Hypereutectic silumins have many positive properties - low density, high specific strength and corrosion resistance. They are non-magnetic, retain their strength at low, up to cryogenic temperatures, have a relatively low thermal expansion coefficient, high modulus of elasticity, increased wear resistance in friction pairs, etc. The structure of hypereutectic silumin is formed by a plastic eutectic matrix and brittle primary silicon crystals larger than 100 urn, and also contains crystals of aluminides of iron, copper, titanium and zirconium. Silumin of hypereutectic (18 wt% Si) composition was modified by irradiating the specimens by an intense pulsed electron beam. It was found that irradiation of hypereutectic silumin with an electron beam leads to a significant decrease in the number of micropores, the formation of a structure of high-speed cellular crystallization.
Low-frequency plasma oscillations in transient conditions of an accelerator with an anode layer
Authors: Thu Aung Soe , Marakhtanov M K , Khokhlov Yu A 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The results are the research of oscillations discharge voltage and ion current of an accelerator with an anode layer (AAL), working without a cathode-compensator. The ion beam flows into the region, occupied by a volume charge and created by its own particles of the beam. Oscillogram received the oscillations of the plasma discharges (AAL) from this operating mode. This mode called the transient mode. Based on the analysis of the obtained oscillograms, an explanation of the reason for the development of oscillations. The effect of power supply voltage ripple is established (AAL) on the development of oscillations discharge voltage and current of the ion beam in the transient (unstable) mode of the single-stage ion accelerator with an anode layer (AAL), working without a cathode-compensator.
Effects of extreme temperature on China’s tea production
Authors: Yan Yulin , Jeong Sujong , Park Chang-Eui , Mueller Nathaniel D , Piao Shilong , Park Hoonyoung , Joo Jaewon , Chen Xing , Wang Xuhui , Liu Junguo , Zheng Chunmiao 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
The production of tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze), the world’s second most consumed beverage, is susceptible to extreme weather events. However, our understanding about the impacts of extreme temperatures and climate change on tea yields remains fairly limited. Here we quantify the historical and predict future fluctuations in tea yield caused by extreme temperatures in China, the largest tea producing country. We found that both heat and cold extremes were associated with significantly reduced tea yields. In the present climate, dominating cold extremes influence more than half of China’s tea production, with a maximum of 56.3% reduced annual production. In the near future, we predict positive net impacts of climate change on tea yield in all study regions at both the 1.5 °C and 2.0 °C global warming levels. Climate warming may diminish the negative impacts of cold extremes to 14%, especially at the current most affected northern tea growing regions (>28° N). However, new areas of yield reduction by intensified heat extremes will emerge, up to 14%–26% yield losses estimated at the Yangtze River (∼30° N) and southern China (<∼25° N) regions. Although the Paris Agreement targets limiting global warming to 1.5 °C, we expect up to 11%–24% heat-induced yield loss in Chongqing, Hunan, Anhui, and Zhejiang. Increasing heat extremes pose the most challenging changes for tea production in China. Therefore, addressing the regional difference of extreme temperature shifts is urgent for adapting tea production to climate change.
Material ratio curve of 3D surface topography of additively manufactured parts: an attempt to characterise open surface pores
Authors: Lou S , Zhu Z , Zeng W , Majewski C , Scott P J , Jiang X 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Surface topography of additively manufactured components often contains 3D features, e.g. particles, open surface pores. X-ray computed topography can capture these features, allowing measurement data to be used for 3D surface texture characterisation. On the basis of the newly developed 3D surface texture parameters, this paper investigates material ratio curves of the surfaces produced by additive manufacturing processes, i.e. selective laser melting and high speed sintering. The material ratio curves of these surfaces vary in their shapes, depending on the specific process and associated process parameters, as well as surface orientations. Re-entrant topography features can result in recess shapes on the material ratio curve at the surface heights where these features locate. This unique characteristic makes the material ratio curve an effective analysis tool to differentiate various AM surface topographies, allowing surface texture to be linked with process control and functional assessment. Furthermore,

V
v
v

(valley void volume) is identified as a useful volume parameter to characterise the open surface pores of AM surfaces. The material ratio

M
r
2

for the determination of

V
v
v

is discussed with the consideration of three options to address the open surface pores. The secant scanning approach proposed by ISO 13565-2 and the manual set ratio at the first sharp drop of the material ratio curve were found to be able to achieve reasonable results for the AM open surface pore characterisation.
Guiding magnetic liquid metal for flexible circuit
Authors: Zhang Chengjun , Yang Qing , Yong Jiale , Shan Chao , Zhang Jingzhou , Hou Xun , Chen Feng 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
Liquid metal (LM) has potential applications in flexible electronics due to its high electrical conductivity and high flexibility. However, common methods of printing LM circuits on soft substrates lack controllability, precision, and the ability to repair a damaged circuit. In this paper, we propose a method that uses a magnetic field to guide a magnetic LM (MLM) droplet to print and repair a flexible LM circuit on a femtosecond (fs) laser-patterned silicone surface. After mixing magnetic iron (Fe) particles into LM, the movement of the resultant MLM droplet could be controlled by a magnetic field. A patterned structure composed of the untreated flat domain and the LM-repellent rough microstructure produced by fs laser ablation was prepared on the silicone substrate. As an MLM droplet was guided onto the designed pattern, a soft LM circuit with smooth, uniform, and high-precision LM lines was obtained. Interestingly, the MLM droplet could also be guided to repair the circuit broken LM lines, and the repaired circuit maintained its original electrical properties. A flexible tensile sensor was prepared based on the printed LM circuit, which detected the bending degree of a finger.
Temperature-Controlled Monopolar Radiofrequency in the Treatment of Submental Skin Laxity: A Prospective Study
Authors: Turer David M , James Isaac B , DiBernardo Barry E 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Background
Laxity of the submental area is a common cosmetic complaint of the aging population.

Objectives
The aim of this study was to determine the safety and effectiveness of a temperature-controlled, minimally invasive percutaneous monopolar radiofrequency device to improve dermal laxity and achieve lift.

Methods
A total of 72 subjects (35-65 years old) with mild to moderate skin laxity in the submental area were included in this single-center prospective study. All subjects received 1 treatment at baseline with an average subdermal temperature of 63°C. The primary endpoint was the proportion of subjects with at least a 20-mm2 decrease in surface area at Day 90 based on 3-dimensional photography. Secondary endpoints included skin elasticity measured by Cutometer, assessment by a blinded physician panel from 2-dimensional photographs, and physician- and subject-reported outcomes.

Results
At Day 90, 72.1% (95% CI: 62.2%-84.0%; P &lt; 0.001) of subjects achieved at least a 20-mm2 lift of the submental area. All Cutometer-measured skin elasticity values (R2, R5, R7) showed significant improvement by 180 days. The independent panel graded 74.2% of subjects as “improved” at 90 days (95% CI: 62.0%-84.2%; P &lt; 0.001). The treatment was well tolerated, and only 1 possibly related serious adverse event was reported (pharyngeal inflammation).

Conclusions
Treatment with temperature-controlled monopolar radiofrequency alone is a safe and effective treatment to achieve submental lift for at least 6 months.

Level of Evidence: 4
The Effect of Obesity, Bariatric Surgery, and Operative Time on Abdominal Body Contouring Outcomes
Authors: Vasilakis Vasileios , Lisiecki Jeffrey L , Kortesis Bill G , Bharti Gaurav , Hunstad Joseph P 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Background
Abdominal body contouring procedures are associated with the highest rates of complications among all aesthetic procedures. Patient selection and optimization of surgical variables are crucial in reducing morbidity and complications.

Objectives
The purpose of this single-institution study was to assess complication rates, and to evaluate BMI, operative time, and history of bariatric surgery as individual risk factors in abdominal body contouring surgery.

Methods
A retrospective chart review was performed of all patients who underwent abdominoplasty, circumferential lower body lift, fleur-de-lis panniculectomy (FDL), and circumferential FDL between August 2014 and February 2020. Endpoints were the incidence of venous thromboembolism, bleeding events, seroma, infection, wound complications, and reoperations. Univariate statistical analysis and multivariate logistic regressions were performed. Covariates in the multivariate logistic regression were BMI, procedure time, and history of bariatric surgery.

Results
A total of 632 patients were included in the study. Univariate analysis revealed that longer procedure time was associated with infection (P = 0.0008), seroma (P = 0.002), necrosis/dehiscence (P = 0.01), and reoperation (P = 0.002). These associations persisted following multivariate analyses. There was a trend toward history of bariatric surgery being associated with minor reoperation (P = 0.054). No significant increase in the incidence of major reoperation was found in association with overweight or obese patient habitus, history of bariatric surgery, or prolonged procedure time. BMI was not found to be an individual risk factor for morbidity in this patient population.

Conclusions
In abdominal body contouring surgery, surgery lasting longer than 6 hours is associated with higher incidence of seroma and infectious complications, as well as higher rates of minor reoperation.

Level of Evidence: 4
BART3D: inferring transcriptional regulators associated with differential chromatin interactions from Hi-C data
Authors: Wang Zhenjia , Zhang Yifan , Zang Chongzhi 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Summary
Identification of functional transcriptional regulators (TRs) associated with chromatin interactions is an important problem in studies of 3-dimensional genome organization and gene regulation. Direct inference of TR binding has been limited by the resolution of Hi-C data. Here, we present BART3D, a computational method for inferring TRs associated with genome-wide differential chromatin interactions by comparing Hi-C maps from two states, leveraging public ChIP-seq data for human and mouse. We demonstrate that BART3D can detect relevant TRs from dynamic Hi-C profiles with TR perturbation or cell differentiation. BART3D can be a useful tool in 3D genome data analysis and functional genomics research.

Availability and implementation
BART3D is implemented in Python and the source code is available at https://github.com/zanglab/bart3d.

Supplementary information
Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Prognosis of cancer survivors: estimation based on differential equations
Authors: Ryalen Pål C , Møller Bjørn , Laache Christoffer H , Stensrud Mats J , Røysland Kjetil 
Published: March 2021

SummaryWe present a method for estimating several prognosis parameters for cancer survivors. The method utilizes the fact that these parameters solve differential equations driven by cumulative hazards. By expressing the parameters as solutions to differential equations, we develop generic estimators that are easy to implement with standard statistical software. We explicitly describe the estimators for prognosis parameters that are often employed in practice, but also for parameters that, to our knowledge, have not been used to evaluate prognosis. We then apply these parameters to assess the prognosis of five common cancers in Norway.
The different phenotypes of COPD
Authors: Yousuf Ahmed , McAuley Hamish , Elneima Omer , Brightling Christopher E 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Background
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. To improve the health status and reduce symptom burden, it is important to identify a group of patients with similar characteristics and prognosis, called clinical phenotypes. Herein we shall review the different phenotypes of COPD.

Sources of data
Keywords (COPD, phenotype, acute exacerbation) search was conducted in PubMed, Google Scholar.

Areas of agreement
Those with raised blood eosinophil counts respond better to steroid therapy at stable state and exacerbation.

Areas of controversy
There is no universally accepted blood eosinophil cut-off value that will indicate favourable response to corticosteroids and potentially for future biologic therapy.

Growing points
There is an urgent need for further therapeutic options for COPD patients with non-eosinophilic inflammation.

Areas timely for developing research
Well-designed COPD trials with identification of phenotypes for more personalization of the treatment of COPD.
Queens remate despite traumatic mating in stingless bees
Authors: Veiga Jamille Costa , Ruiz Gustavo Rodrigo Sanches , Carvalho-Zilse Gislene Almeida , Menezes Cristiano , Contrera Felipe Andrés León 
Published: March 2021

AbstractMales can control female reproduction using genital plugs to impede access by rivals. In social bees, ants, and wasps, plugging may involve traumatic mating, with females being harmed. In stingless bees, chances are that plugs may promote ovarian activan, and are thought to ensure single mating—a general tendency among the social Hymenoptera. However, understanding on relationships between mating plugs, traumatic mating, and mating systems in stingless bees remains limited. To address this, we (1) compared mated queens of 7 Neotropical species to understand the patterns of copulatory marks in females and (2) compared pre- and post-mating genitalia of males and females in Melipona fasciculata to depict plug functional morphology. Data revealed an unprecedented consequence of mating in stingless bees: the characteristic marks left by mating plugs on female abdomens and the inferences that can be made from them. To our surprise, in 1 species M. fasciculata we found that queens retain the plug long after mating, and may carry it for the rest of their lives. All the other 6 species retained the plug for only a short period. Remated queens were only found in M. seminigra, whose multiple copulatory marks match previous findings of polyandry in this species. Our study shows that queens can remate, and suggests that male genital morphology may determine in part the time persistence of plugs. We conclude that traumatic mating plugs do not fully prevent remating in stingless bees and that mating systems are not uniform in this group. Nonetheless, exceptional cases of facultative polyandry in social insects—for example, when mating plugs fail—may confirm a general tendency for single mating in close link with efficient mating plugs.
Telomere shortening is associated with corticosterone stress response in adult barn swallows
Authors: Costanzo Alessandra , Ambrosini Roberto , Parolini Marco , Caprioli Manuela , Secomandi Simona , Rubolini Diego , Fusani Leonida , Canoine Virginie 
Published: March 2021

AbstractWhen vertebrates face stressful events, the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis is activated, generating a rapid increase in circulating glucocorticoid (GC) stress hormones followed by a return to baseline levels. However, repeated activation of HPA axis may lead to increase in oxidative stress. One target of oxidative stress is telomeres, nucleoprotein complexes at the end of chromosomes that shorten at each cell division. The susceptibility of telomeres to oxidizing molecules has led to the hypothesis that increased GC levels boost telomere shortening, but studies on this link are scanty. We studied if, in barn swallows Hirundo rustica, changes in adult erythrocyte telomere length between 2 consecutive breeding seasons are related to corticosterone (CORT) (the main avian GC) stress response induced by a standard capture-restraint protocol. Within-individual telomere length did not significantly change between consecutive breeding seasons. Second-year individuals showed the highest increase in circulating CORT concentrations following restraint. Moreover, we found a decline in female stress response along the breeding season. In addition, telomere shortening covaried with the stress response: a delayed activation of the negative feedback loop terminating the stress response was associated with greater telomere attrition. Hence, among-individual variation in stress response may affect telomere dynamics.
Collapse of the endemic lizardPodarcis pityusensison the island of Ibiza mediated by an invasive snake
Authors: Montes Elba , Kraus Fred , Chergui Brahim , Pleguezuelos Juan M 
Published: March 2021

AbstractThe invasive snake Hemorrhois hippocrepis colonized the island of Ibiza (Balearic Islands) in 2003 as stowaways inside trunks of olive trees imported for gardening. It has quickly spread since 2010, posing a threat to the island’s only remaining endemic vertebrate, the Ibiza wall lizard Podarcis pityusensis. We map the yearly expansion rate of the snake and estimate via transect surveys how severely it affects the distribution and abundance of the endemic lizard. As well, we surveyed 9 of 30 small lizard populations on islets surrounding Ibiza that have been isolated since the Last Glacial Maximum. Snakes had invaded 49% of Ibiza’s land area by 2018, and censuses show a critical contrast in lizard abundance between areas with and without snakes; almost all censuses in areas without snakes show lizard presence whereas nearly all censuses in areas with H. hippocrepis lack lizard sightings. Moreover, at least one subspecies previously thriving on one of the offshore islets has become extinct, and there have been several snakes recorded swimming between Ibiza and the surrounding islets. Therefore, lizard populations have been dramatically reduced or have vanished within the range of the snake, and our results quantitatively support upgrading this species’ threat level for extinction. This study can inform to programs to manage invasive snake populations and to conservation actions to recover the endemic lizard.
Contrast echocardiography facilitates appropriate management of hospitalized patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and suspected right ventricular masses: case series
Authors: Botrous Christina , Bioh Gabriel , Patel Ashish , Hampson Reinette , Senior Roxy 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Background
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection is associated with a coagulopathy with high incidence of venous thrombo-embolism. However, bleeding risk is also significant, causing difficulty in initiating and adjusting anticoagulation therapy in case of suspected thrombi. Cardiac masses can be challenging to be identified properly in the context of this disease. The use of bedside contrast echocardiography (CE) can be of a great value in this situation decreasing procedure-related risk and allowing proper diagnosis and management of a cardiac mass.

Cases summary
We present two cases who were admitted with severe COVID-19 infection. Both cases had additional risk factors for hypercoagulability. Un-enhanced echocardiography was performed and revealed right ventricular (RV) dysfunction with a suspected RV mass. The use of bedside CE could confirm a RV thrombus in the first case and exclude it in the second case. Hence, anticoagulation therapy could be adjusted accordingly in both patients.

Discussion
Coronavirus disease 2019 infection is associated with peripheral thrombo-embolism and cardiac thrombi. Given the critical condition of many patients affected by COVID-19, imaging for thrombo-embolic events is often restricted. With the use of bedside CE, cardiac masses may be correctly identified, aiding proper adjustment of anticoagulation therapy.
Case report: iatrogenic left ventricular outflow tract to right atrium fistula after trans-femoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation associated with asymmetric septal hypertrophy
Authors: Al Ayouby Ahmad , Gilard Martine , Hebert Thomas , Didier Romain 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Background
The transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is becoming a leading treatment option for symptomatic aortic stenosis for patients in all surgical risk categories. Recognition and management of potential complications are essential to ensure patient life and comfort. We present here a case report of a left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) to right atrium (RA) fistula which is an extremely rare complication after TAVI.

Case summary
An 85-year-old man with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis and non-obstructive asymmetric septal hypertrophy (ASH) underwent a transfemoral TAVI. Soon after the procedure, he developed chest pain and atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response. A transthoracic echocardiography followed by a transoesophageal echocardiography showed a small pseudo-aneurysm with a fistulous tract between the LVOT and the RA. This was confirmed by a contrast computed tomography scan of the heart. The patient remained asymptomatic throughout the rest of hospitalization. He was treated with diuretics and discharged home. One month follow-up showed increase in the width, jet size, and gradient of the fistula but the patient remained asymptomatic. The decision by Heart team was to closely monitor him for symptoms since the fistula is difficult to access percutaneously.

Discussion
We report a unique case of an LVOT to RA fistula in the setting of ASH that occurred post-TAVI. Alcohol septal ablation was proposed pre-TAVI for patients having septal thickening &gt;15 mm and dynamic obstruction. Treatment options for iatrogenic fistula vary from symptomatic treatment to percutaneous or surgical closure.