bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accounting Conservatism and Board Characteristics: Portuguese Evidence
Authors: Sandra Alves
Published: December 2021

For a sample of 26 non-financial listed Portuguese firms-year from 2002 to 2016, this study extends previous research by empirically examining how board structure affects the magnitude of accounting conservatism for companies listed in Portugal. Mainly, we focus on the main characteristics of the board structure that are highlighted by the Portuguese Securities Market Supervisory Authority’s recommendations: board size, board composition, board’s monitoring committees and number of board meeting. This study predicts and finds a non-linear relationship between board size and conservatism. Specifically, we find that as board size increases up to 8 members, the sample firms employ more conservatism, consistent with the idea that smaller boards can be more effective than larger boards in monitoring managerial behaviour. When board size reaches beyond 8 members, a negative relationship between board size and conservatism accounting occurs. We also find that both boards comprised of more non-executive members and high board meetings frequency lead firms to report more conservatively.
Factors Affecting Intention to Use Food Order-Delivery Feature of Ride-Hailing Applications: The UTAUT Approach
Authors: Ade Permata Surya  , I Made Sukresna  , Aris Mardiyono
Published: December 2021

Since ride-hailing platforms in Indonesia provide food order-delivery feature, there has been a change in public spending behavior from conventional to electronic, even on the most basic element, i.e., food. The purpose of this study is to identify critical factors affecting consumers’ adoption of ride-hailing applications to buy food using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) approach. This study uses a cross-sectional design with a non-probability sampling method. Data was collected from self-administered questionnaire, resulting a total sample of 315 respondents across Indonesia. The respondents are GrabFood and GoFood consumers and the food order-delivery feature of Grab and Gojek (the ride-hailing applications). The study employs PLS-SEM technique to analyze the relationships among variables. The findings show performance expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions positively influence behavioral intention to use food order-delivery features in ride-hailing applications. On the other hand, effort expectancy does not influence behavioral intention. The results corroborate the role of food-order feature of ride-hailing applications in the change of Indonesian consumer behavior. Referring to the study results, theoretical contributions and practical implications are provided.
Unraveling Determinants of Webrooming Behavior: A Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Eugene Cheng-Xi Aw  , Norazlyn Kamal Basha  , Siew-Imm Ng  , Jo-Ann Ho
Published: December 2021

Webrooming, a practice whereby consumers research for products online prior to making their final purchase offline, represents a prevalent form of shopping behavior in the current retailing landscape. This study aims to explore the determinants for and against the adoption of webrooming behavior among Millennials. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were employed to collect data. Data were analyzed through theoretical thematic analysis. Results unveil a number of important themes, categorized based on consumers- (i.e., need for touch, need for interaction, price-comparison orientation, and product knowledge), channel-related factors (i.e., online search convenience, perceived usefulness of online reviews, perceived helpfulness of in-store salespeople, immediate possession, perceived risk), situational factor (i.e., product category), as well as experiential outcome (smart-shopping perception) that arose from webrooming. Considering the limited research on webrooming, this study advances the theoretical understanding on the determinants of webrooming, and offers managerial insight for retailers to deal with this popular shopping phenomenon.
The Study on Human Resource Practices and AMO Model and Its Impact on Employee Commitment among Gen Y SMEs Employees in Selangor, Malaysia
Authors: Norzanah Mat Nor Arshad Ayub  , Elaina Rose Johar  , Siti Murni Mat Khairi
Published: December 2021

Researchers and practitioners have been very enthusiastic and spend the most determinations to study all possible means in order to grab the most advantage from their human resources (HR) especially the Gen Y employees. These employees are pertinent to the part of organisation’s strategic business plan and contribute to the organisation’s performance as well as sustainable competitive advantage. Hence, employee commitment remains a key challenge especially in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship of compensation, training, employee involvement as well as the ability, motivation and opportunity (AMO) model towards employee commitment. The study also seeks to provide the theory-based empirical evidence that the role of AMO model as a mediator in achieving the commitment of employees and used Social Exchange Theory (SET) in order to explain the theoretical rationale of the study model. A total of 168 Gen Y employees representing SMEs service sectors in Selangor, Malaysia participated in this study. Partial Least Square-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) was utilised in order to explain the relationship among HR practices towards employee commitment as well as AMO model as a mediator. A key finding that emerged from the analysis showed that only training has direct relationship toward the employee commitment and AMO model plays an important role in gaining employee commitment as it mediates the relationship of employee involvement. However, compensation has no effect in any relationship. Particularly, this study has helped to place the human resource practices, AMO model and employee commitment in the SET by giving a new perspective theoretically that the correct approach of gaining commitment of employees by providing the appropriate practices that employee will reciprocate in return. Also, it showed that Gen Y employees are seeking more involvement than compensation in order to commit themselves. SMEs should involve employees in their daily activities or any decision-making and offers other recognition programs, as money and remuneration are no longer a motivational urge for employees to become committed. Moreover, the findings could therefore serve as a turning point for SMEs to start concentrating and provide more job-related training so that employees can upgrade their skills particularly in this Industrial 4.0 era, where everything changes greatly in the way they deal with others.
Parents' Determinants Buying Intent on Environmentally Friendly Children's Clothing
Authors: Siti Shukhaila Shaharuddin  , Marzie Hatef Jalil
Published: December 2021

Fast-fashion products encourage parents to spend more on their children’s necessities. As a result, children’s clothing consumption is increasingly higher in a family due to child growth and change of needs. Due to the short lifespan of children’s clothes, the waste of clothing is increasing rapidly. This research aims to study the opinion of parents and the acceptance of children’s environmental-friendly clothing. The research examined parents’ buying patterns such as shopping frequency, disposal practices and the purchase of child clothing experience. This work has embraced the idea of eco-fashion design to examine the clothing needs of children and the knowledge of the parents. Hence, a quantitative analysis was applied to research among parents in January 2020 in Malaysia. This research contributes to academic results about parents’ decision-making on the children clothing subject. The findings showed that parents were aware of the idea of sustainable apparel; the cost, quality, design, and health issues were the most significant factors that influenced consumer’s decisions to purchase children’s clothing. Sustainable children’s clothing was preferred by parents as it had multiple benefits which impacted children’s health, preserves the environment as well as cost and time effective. For future research, further exploration relating to disposal and sustainable clothing design for children is suggested.
Refleksi Sisi Negatif Burung Gagak Dalam Peribahasa Melayu: Analisis Semantik Inkuisitif
Authors: Daud Muhammad Zaid , Abdullah Nurul Aida , Subet Mary Fatimah
Published: December 2021

Pandangan masyarakat Melayu pada masa dahulu, telah menginterpretasikan burung gagak sebagai rupa yang buruk, sesuatu yang lemah, impian yang tidak kesampaian dan sukar untuk berubah. Oleh itu, objektif khusus kajian ini adalah untuk meneroka sebab pemilihan imej perlambangan gagak dalam peribahasa Melayu menggunakan pendekatan Semantik Inkuisitif (Jalaluddin, 2014) serta dibantu dengan pendekatan Rangka Rujuk Silang (Kempson, 1986). Kajian ini berbentuk kualitatif sepenuhnya melalui analisis dokumen yang telah dibukukan. Data peribahasa ini dikutip melalui pensampelan bertujuan dalam Kamus Peribahasa Melayu Edisi Kelima oleh Rahman (2017), Kamus Istimewa Peribahasa Melayu Edisi Kedua oleh Hussain (2016) serta Kamus Peribahasa Melayu oleh Said (2013). Keseluruhannya, terdapat sembilan data peribahasa Melayu yang bersumberkan burung gagak ini. Setiap huraian data peribahasa ini, pengkaji akan memanfaatkan data autentik yang mengambil kira maklumat semantik dan konteks, kognitif, budaya serta akal budi (keintelektualan) masyarakat Melayu itu sendiri.
Does receiving a basic income encourage citizens to turn out to vote? Evidence from mayoral and general elections in Brazil
Authors: Araújo Victor
Published: December 2021

Political theorists and enthusiasts of basic income programs advocate that receiving an unconditional, periodic, and nonwithdrawable cash payment can encourage voter turnout by freeing citizens' time, energy, and cognitive bandwidth. This paper provides the first quantitative assessment of this argument by studying Renda Básica de Cidadania (RBC) -- currently the largest basic income program in Latin America. RBC pays a monthly transfer equivalent to 15% (R$170 approx. US$35) of the national minimum wage to 42,000 (25%) of individuals living in Maricá, Brazil. Estimates from a difference-in-differences design show a substantive increase in voter turnout after the adoption of the basic income. Besides turnout, the RBC is also associated with a reduction of invalid votes -- which tends to signal voters' lack of information about candidates or their dissatisfaction with the candidate pool. These effects appear in local and general elections and are robust across different models.
Utilization of Zakat Funds on The Welfare Dimensions of The Poor In Aceh Besar (Baitul Mal Mustahik Case Study)
Authors: Utari Ulya , Sari Nurma , Amri Amri
Published: December 2021

This study aims to analyze the effect of zakat funds utilization on the dimensions of the welfare of the poor in Aceh Besar. This research uses a quantitative approach by multivariate analysis (Manova) method. Data was collected by interviewing and distributing questionnaires to mustahik the Baitul Mal Aceh, using the Probability Sampling method and using the Quota Sampling Model. The utilization of zakat funds is reviewed in the scope of categories of types of businesses (agriculture, trade, and services), while the welfare dimension is measured by several variables (food, clothing, Education, Health, and Savings). Findings. The results showed that the type of business had a significant effect on the dimensions of welfare. Agriculture was the type of business with the highest level of welfare, followed by services and trade.
Implementation of GCG (Good Corporate Governance) on the Prevention of Fraud Financing in Islamic Banks
Authors: Cholisoh Lies , Hadziq M. Fuad
Published: December 2021

Although Islamic Banking operates with Islamic principles, there are still many frauds that are committed deliberately for particular cases. This study aims to determine the extent of the influence of Good Corporate Governance in Islamic banking on indications of fraud, especially at Bank BNI Syariah. This research is quantitative research with primary and secondary data, namely using a sample questionnaire and interviews. While the data analysis is using multiple regression with descriptive analysis. The results of the study concluded that the resulting regression had a very small R square at 34.7%. Finding. The results of the t-test show that partially the independent variables in GCG, namely information disclosure, accountability, responsibility, independence, fairness, are stated to not affect the financing of fraud. This is because the number of R squares has a small effect. After all, it is below 50% so that the impact on the insignificance of the variables in GCG on fraud financing. Therefore, it results from the t-test in which none of the X variables affect variable Y. From the information above, it can be concluded that the GCG variable simultaneously has a significant effect on financing fraud, but if tested partially, the GCG variable has no effect on financing fraud.
Discovering the Experience of Financial Technology (FinTech) Users in Paying Zakah, Infaq, and Sadaqah (ZIS) in East Java, Indonesia
Authors: Dwi Agustiningsih Maulida , Islami Novita Nurul , Tiara Tiara , Pramono Widyo
Published: December 2021

COVID-19 impacts the people and some companies in different sectors. This pandemic creates online Zakah, Infaq, and Sadaqah (ZIS) payments which must be developed in line with FinTech services in Indonesia that increase continuously. However, many companies lack intentions on User Experience (UX) that can be a risk for services or products. This study explores the Experience of Financial Technology (FinTech) users in Paying Zakah, Infaq, and Sadaqah (ZIS). The quantitative method is used by collecting online questionnaires through FinTech users in East Java, Indonesia. PLS-SEM was used to analyze data. Findings. The result indicated that both information and system quality have no impact on the user experience. Meanwhile, service quality positively relates to user experience. As a result, this study disclosed the user experience of ZIS payment during COVID-19 that will lead to the user's intentions and net benefit.
A 3-D Finite-Element Minipig Model to Assess Brain Biomechanical Responses to Blast Exposure
Authors: Sundaramurthy Aravind , Kote Vivek Bhaskar , Pearson Noah , Boiczyk Gregory M. , McNeil Elizabeth M. , Nelson Allison J. , Subramaniam Dhananjay Radhakrishnan , Rubio Jose E. , Monson Kenneth , Hardy Warren N. , VandeVord Pamela J. , Unnikrishnan Ginu , Reifman Jaques
Published: December 2021

Despite years of research, it is still unknown whether the interaction of explosion-induced blast waves with the head causes injury to the human brain. One way to fill this gap is to use animal models to establish “scaling laws” that project observed brain injuries in animals to humans. This requires laboratory experiments and high-fidelity mathematical models of the animal head to establish correlates between experimentally observed blast-induced brain injuries and model-predicted biomechanical responses. To this end, we performed laboratory experiments on Göttingen minipigs to develop and validate a three-dimensional (3-D) high-fidelity finite-element (FE) model of the minipig head. First, we performed laboratory experiments on Göttingen minipigs to obtain the geometry of the cerebral vasculature network and to characterize brain-tissue and vasculature material properties in response to high strain rates typical of blast exposures. Next, we used the detailed cerebral vasculature information and species-specific brain tissue and vasculature material properties to develop the 3-D high-fidelity FE model of the minipig head. Then, to validate the model predictions, we performed laboratory shock-tube experiments, where we exposed Göttingen minipigs to a blast overpressure of 210 kPa in a laboratory shock tube and compared brain pressures at two locations. We observed a good agreement between the model-predicted pressures and the experimental measurements, with differences in maximum pressure of less than 6%. Finally, to evaluate the influence of the cerebral vascular network on the biomechanical predictions, we performed simulations where we compared results of FE models with and without the vasculature. As expected, incorporation of the vasculature decreased brain strain but did not affect the predictions of brain pressure. However, we observed that inclusion of the cerebral vasculature in the model changed the strain distribution by as much as 100% in regions near the interface between the vasculature and the brain tissue, suggesting that the vasculature does not merely decrease the strain but causes drastic redistributions. This work will help establish correlates between observed brain injuries and predicted biomechanical responses in minipigs and facilitate the creation of scaling laws to infer potential injuries in the human brain due to exposure to blast waves.
Assessing Phototoxicity in a Mammalian Cell Line: How Low Levels of Blue Light Affect Motility in PC3 Cells
Authors: Alghamdi Rana A. , Exposito-Rodriguez Marino , Mullineaux Philip M. , Brooke Greg N. , Laissue Philippe P.
Published: December 2021

Phototoxicity is a significant constraint for live cell fluorescence microscopy. Excessive excitation light intensities change the homeostasis of the observed cells. Erroneous and misleading conclusions may be the problematic consequence of observing such light-induced pathophysiology. In this study, we assess the effect of blue light, as commonly used for GFP and YFP excitation, on a motile mammalian cell line. Tracking PC3 cells at different light doses and intensities, we show how motility can be used to reliably assess subtle positive and negative effects of illumination. We further show that the effects are a factor of intensity rather than light dose. Mitotic delay was not a sensitive indicator of phototoxicity. For early detection of the effect of blue light, we analysed the expression of genes involved in oxidative stress. This study addresses the need for relatively simple and sensitive methods to establish a dose-response curve for phototoxicity in mammalian cell line models. We conclude with a working model for phototoxicity and recommendations for its assessment.
GBDTLRL2D Predicts LncRNA–Disease Associations Using MetaGraph2Vec and K-Means Based on Heterogeneous Network
Authors: Duan Tao , Kuang Zhufang , Wang Jiaqi , Ma Zhihao
Published: December 2021

In recent years, the long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) has been shown to be involved in many disease processes. The prediction of the lncRNA–disease association is helpful to clarify the mechanism of disease occurrence and bring some new methods of disease prevention and treatment. The current methods for predicting the potential lncRNA–disease association seldom consider the heterogeneous networks with complex node paths, and these methods have the problem of unbalanced positive and negative samples. To solve this problem, a method based on the Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT) and logistic regression (LR) to predict the lncRNA–disease association (GBDTLRL2D) is proposed in this paper. MetaGraph2Vec is used for feature learning, and negative sample sets are selected by using K-means clustering. The innovation of the GBDTLRL2D is that the clustering algorithm is used to select a representative negative sample set, and the use of MetaGraph2Vec can better retain the semantic and structural features in heterogeneous networks. The average area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values of GBDTLRL2D obtained on the three datasets are 0.98, 0.98, and 0.96 in 10-fold cross-validation.
Circular RNA Expression for Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Hearts and Pluripotent Stem Cell–Derived Cardiomyocytes
Authors: Zhang Yiyu , Huang Guoqing , Yuan Zhaohu , Zhang Yonggang , Chang Rong
Published: December 2021

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a type of heart disease delimited by enlargement and dilation of one or both of the ventricles along with damaged contractility, which is often accompanied by the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) less than 40%. DCM is progressive and always leads to heart failure. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are unique species of noncoding RNAs featuring high cell-type specificity and long-lasting conservation, which normally are involved in the regulation of heart failure and DCM recently. So far, a landscape of various single gene or polygene mutations, which can cause complex human cardiac disorders, has been investigated by human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) technology. Furthermore, DCM has been modeled as well, providing new perspectives on the disease study at a cellular level. In addition, current genome editing methods can not only repair defects of some genes, but also rescue the disease phenotype in patient-derived iPSCs, even introduce pathological-related mutations into wild-type strains. In this review, we gather up the aspects of the circRNA expression and mechanism in the DCM disease scenario, facilitating understanding in DCM development and pathophysiology in the molecular level. Also, we offer an update on the most relevant scientific progress in iPSC modeling of gene mutation–induced DCM.
Characterizing the Neutrophilic Inflammation in Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps
Authors: Ruan Jian-Wen , Zhao Jie-Fang , Li Xue-Li , Liao Bo , Pan Li , Zhu Ke-Zhang , Feng Qi-Miao , Liu Jin-Xin , Yu Zi-E , Song Jia , Wang Hai , Liu Zheng
Published: December 2021

The mechanisms underlying neutrophilic inflammation in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) remain poorly investigated. This study aimed to examine the factors that contribute to tissue neutrophilia in CRSwNP. The numbers of neutrophils and active caspase-3-positive apoptotic neutrophils in sinonasal tissues were assessed via immunofluorescence staining. The 95th percentile of tissue neutrophil numbers in control subjects was selected as a cut-off to define neutrophil-high (Neu-high) or neutrophil-low (Neu-low) nasal polyps (NPs). The levels of 34 inflammatory mediators in sinonasal tissues were analyzed using Bio-Plex assay. Purified human peripheral blood neutrophils were incubated with nasal tissue homogenates, and the apoptotic neutrophils were assessed via flow cytometry. The cut-off for Neu-high NPs was >10 myeloperoxidase positive cells/high-power field. Compared with Neu-low NPs, Neu-high NPs had higher tissue levels of IL-1β, IL-1Ra, IL-6, IL-8, G-CSF, MCP-1, and MIP-1α, but lower levels of IL-5, IL-13, IgE, and eosinophils. Principal component and multiple correspondence analyses revealed mixed type 1, type 2, and type 3 endotypes for Neu-low NPs, and predominant type 1 and type 3 endotypes for Neu-high NPs. Neu-high NPs had lower percentages of apoptotic neutrophils than Neu-low NPs. The numbers of neutrophils and the percentages of apoptotic neutrophils correlated with G-CSF and IL-6 levels in the NPs. Tissue homogenates from Neu-high NPs, but not those from Neu-low NPs, suppressed neutrophil apoptosis in vitro, which was reversed by anti-G-CSF treatment. Tissue neutrophil numbers were associated with difficult-to-treat disease in patients with CRSwNP after surgery. We propose that G-CSF promotes neutrophilic inflammation by inhibiting neutrophil apoptosis in CRSwNP.
A New Biomarker of Fecal Bacteria for Non-Invasive Diagnosis of Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Yao Yizhou , Ni Haishun , Wang Xuchao , Xu Qixuan , Zhang Jiawen , Jiang Linhua , Wang Bin , Song Shiduo , Zhu Xinguo
Published: December 2021

Background

The intestinal flora is correlated with the occurrence of colorectal cancer. We evaluate a new predictive model for the non-invasive diagnosis of colorectal cancer based on intestinal flora to verify the clinical application prospects of the intestinal flora as a new biomarker in non-invasive screening of colorectal cancer.

Methods

Subjects from two independent Asian cohorts (cohort I, consisting of 206 colorectal cancer and 112 healthy subjects; cohort II, consisting of 67 colorectal cancer and 54 healthy subjects) were included. A probe-based duplex quantitative PCR (qPCR) determination was established for the quantitative determination of candidate bacterial markers.

Results

We screened through the gutMEGA database to identify potential non-invasive biomarkers for colorectal cancer, including Prevotella copri (Pc), Gemella morbillorum (Gm), Parvimonas micra (Pm), Cetobacterium somerae (Cs), and Pasteurella stomatis (Ps). A predictive model with good sensitivity and specificity was established as a new diagnostic tool for colorectal cancer. Under the best cutoff value that maximizes the sum of sensitivity and specificity, Gm and Pm had better specificity and sensitivity than other target bacteria. The combined detection model of five kinds of bacteria showed better diagnostic ability than Gm or Pm alone (AUC = 0.861, P < 0.001). These findings were further confirmed in the independent cohort II. Particularly, the combination of bacterial markers and fecal immunochemical test (FIT) improved the diagnostic ability of the five bacteria (sensitivity 67.96%, specificity 89.29%) for patients with colorectal cancer.

Conclusion

Fecal-based colorectal cancer-related bacteria can be used as new non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers of colorectal cancer. Simultaneously, the molecular biomarkers in fecal samples are similar to FIT, have the applicability in combination with other detection methods, which is expected to improve the sensitivity of diagnosis for colorectal cancer, and have a promising prospect of clinical application.
The Microbiome as a Key Regulator of Female Genital Tract Barrier Function
Authors: Plesniarski Andrew , Siddik Abu Bakar , Su Ruey-Chyi
Published: December 2021

The microbiome, the collection of microbial species at a site or compartment, has been an underappreciated realm of human health up until the last decade. Mounting evidence suggests the microbiome has a critical role in regulating the female genital tract (FGT) mucosa’s function as a barrier against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pathogens. In this review, we provide the most recent experimental systems and studies for analyzing the interplay between the microbiome and host cells and soluble factors with an influence on barrier function. Key components, such as microbial diversity, soluble factors secreted by host and microbe, as well as host immune system, all contribute to both the physical and immunologic aspects of the FGT mucosal barrier. Current gaps in what is known about the effects of the microbiome on FGT mucosal barrier function are compared and contrasted with the literature of the gut and respiratory mucosa. This review article presents evidence supporting that the vaginal microbiome, directly and indirectly, contributes to how well the FGT protects against infection.
Utility of S100A12 as an Early Biomarker in Patients With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Zhang Xiaolin , Cheng Minghui , Gao Naijing , Li Yi , Yan Chenghui , Tian Xiaoxiang , Liu Dan , Qiu Miaohan , Wang Xiaozeng , Luan Bo , Deng Jie , Wang Shouli , Tian Hongyan , Wang Geng , Ma Xinliang , Stone Gregg W. , Han Yaling
Published: December 2021

Importance: S100A12 is a calcium binding protein which is involved in inflammation and progression of atherosclerosis.

Objective: We sought to investigate the utility of S100A12 as a biomarker for the early diagnosis and prognostication of patients presenting with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Design, Setting, and Participants: S100A12 was measured in 1023 patients presenting to the emergency department with acute chest pain between June 2012 and November 2015. An independent cohort of 398 patients enrolled at 3 different hospitals served as a validation cohort.

Main Outcomes and Measures: The primary clinical endpoint of interest was major adverse cardiac and cerebral events (MACCE) defined as a composite of all-cause death, MI, stroke, or hospitalization for heart failure.

Results: A total of 438/1023 patients (42.8%) in the diagnosis cohort were adjudicated as STEMI, among whom plasma S100A12 levels increased within 30 min and peaked 1–2 h after symptom onset. Compared with high-sensitivity cardiac troponin T and creatine kinase-MB isoenzyme, S100A12 more accurately identified STEMI, especially within the first 2 h after symptom onset (area under the curve 0.963 compared with 0.860 for hscTnT and 0.711 for CK-MB, both P < 0.05). These results were consistent in the 243-patient validation cohort. The 1-year rate of MACCE was greatest in patients in the highest peak S100A12 tertile, intermediate in the middle tertile and least in the lowest tertile (9.3 vs. 5.7 vs. 3.0% respectively, Ptrend = 0.0006). By multivariable analysis the peak plasma concentration of S100A12 was an independent predictor of MACCE within 1 year after STEMI (HR, 1.001, 95%CI, 1.000–1.002; P = 0.0104).

Conclusions and Relevance: S100A12 rapidly identified patients with STEMI, more accurately than other cardiac biomarkers, especially within the first 2 h after symptom onset. The peak plasma S100A12 level was a strong predictor of 1-year prognosis after STEMI.
Inhibition of Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptor 2 Prevents Thoracic Aortic Dissection and Rupture
Authors: Pan Guangwei , Liao Mengyang , Dai Yong , Li Yang , Yan Xiaole , Mai Wuqian , Liu Jinping , Liao Yuhua , Qiu Zhihua , Zhou Zihua
Published: December 2021

Background: Numerous pieces of evidence have indicated that thoracic aortic dissection (TAD) is an inflammatory disease. Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor 2 (S1PR2) signaling is a driver in multiple inflammatory diseases. Here, we examined the S1PR2 expression in TAD lesions and explored the effect of interfering with S1PR2 on TAD formation and progression.

Methods: Aorta specimens and blood samples were collected from patients with TAD and matched controls. The expression of S1PR1, S1PR2, and S1PR3 was examined. The effect of inhibiting S1PR2 on TAD was evaluated in a TAD mouse model induced by β-aminopropionitrile fumarate (BAPN) and AngII. The presence of sphingosine kinase 1 (SPHK1), S1P, and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) was investigated. Further, the possible association between S1PR2 signaling and NETs in TAD was analyzed.

Results: In the aortic tissues of patients with TAD and a mouse model, the S1PR2 expression was significantly up-regulated. In the TAD mouse model, JTE013, a specific S1PR2 antagonist, not only blunted the TAD formation and aortic rupture, but also preserved the elastic fiber architecture, reduced the smooth muscle cells apoptosis level, and mitigated the aortic wall inflammation. Augmented tissue protein expression of SPHK1, citrullinated histone H3 (CitH3, a specific marker of NETs), and serum S1P, CitH3 were detected in TAD patients. Surgical repair normalized the serum S1P and CitH3 levels. Immunofluorescence staining revealed that S1PR2 colocalized with NETs. The protein expression levels of SPHK1 and serum S1P levels positively correlated with the protein expression and serum levels of CitH3, separately. Furthermore, JTE013 treatment reduced NETs accumulation.

Conclusion: Inhibiting S1PR2 attenuates TAD formation and prevents aortic rupture. Targeting S1PR2 may provide a promising treatment strategy against TAD.
The Impact of Ischemia Assessed by Magnetic Resonance on Functional, Arrhythmic, and Imaging Features of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Aguiar Rosa Sílvia , Thomas Boban , Fiarresga António , Papoila Ana Luísa , Alves Marta , Pereira Ricardo , Branco Gonçalo , Cruz Inês , Rio Pedro , Baquero Luis , Ferreira Rui Cruz , Mota Carmo Miguel , Lopes Luís Rocha
Published: December 2021

Aims: The aim of the study is to investigate the association between the degree of ischemia due to coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) and the left ventricular (LV) tissue characteristics, systolic performance, and clinical manifestations in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM).

Methods and Results: This prospective study enrolled 75 patients with HCM without obstructive epicardial coronary artery disease. Each patient underwent cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) including parametric mapping, perfusion imaging during regadenoson-induced hyperemia, late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) and three-dimensional longitudinal, circumferential, and radial strains analysis. Electrocardiogram, 24-h Holter recording, and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) were performed to assess arrhythmias and functional capacity. In total, 47 (63%) patients were men with the mean age of 54.6 (14.8) years, 51 (68%) patients had non-obstructive HCM, maximum wall thickness (MWT) was 20.2 (4.6) mm, LV ejection fraction (LVEF) was 71.6 (8.3%), and ischemic burden was 22.5 (16.9%) of LV. Greater MWT was associated with the severity of ischemia (β-estimate:1.353, 95% CI:0.182; 2.523, p = 0.024). Ischemic burden was strongly associated with higher values of native T1 (β-estimate:9.018, 95% CI:4.721; 13.315, p < 0.001). The association between ischemia and LGE was significant in following subgroup analyses: MWT 15–20 mm (β-estimate:1.941, 95% CI:0.738; 3.143, p = 0.002), non-obstructive HCM (β-estimate:1.471, 95% CI:0.258; 2.683, p = 0.019), women (β-estimate:1.957, 95% CI:0.423; 3.492, p = 0.015) and age <40 years (β-estimate:4.874, 95% CI:1.155; 8.594, p = 0.016). Ischemia in ≥21% of LV was associated with LGE >15% (AUC 0.766, sensitivity 0.724, specificity 0.659). Ischemia was also associated with atrial fibrillation or flutter (AF/AFL) (OR-estimate:1.481, 95% CI:1.020; 2.152, p = 0.039), but no association was seen for non-sustained ventricular tachycardia. Ischemia was associated with shorter time to anaerobic threshold (β-estimate: −0.442, 95% CI: −0.860; −0.023, p = 0.039).

Conclusion: In HCM, ischemia associates with morphological markers of severity of disease, fibrosis, arrhythmia, and functional capacity.
Long-Term Spatial and Temporal Variation of Near Surface Air Temperature in Southwest China During 1969–2018
Authors: Zhou Jia , Lu Tao
Published: December 2021

Near surface air temperature (NSAT) is one of the most important climatic parameters and its variability plays a vital role in natural processes associated with climate. Based on an improved ANUSPLIN (short for Australian National University Spline) model which considers more terrain-related factors, this study analyzed the trends, anomalies, change points, and variations of NSAT in Southwest China from 1969 to 2018. The results revealed that the improved approach performed the best in terms of Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and R-squared (R2) comparing to the conventional ANUSPLIN and co-kriging methods. It has great potential for future meteorological and climatological research, especially in mountainous regions with diverse topography. In addition, Southwest China experienced an overall warming trend of 0.21°C/decade for annual mean NSAT in the period 1969–2018. The warming rate was much higher than mainland China and global averages, and statistically significant warming began in the late 1990s. Moreover, consistent warming and significant elevation-dependent warming (EDW) were observed in most parts of Southwest China, and the hiatus or slowdown phenomenon after the 1997/1998 EL Niño event was not observed as expected. Furthermore, the remarkable increase in winter and minimum NSATs contributed more to the whole warming than summer and maximum NSATs. These findings imply that Southwest China responds to global warming more sensitively than generally recognized, and climate change in mountainous regions like Southwest China should be of particular concern.
Forward Modelling for Structural Stratigraphic Analysis, Offshore Sureste Basin, Mexico
Authors: Christie Donald N. , Peel Frank J. , Apps Gillian M. , Stanbrook David “Stan”
Published: December 2021

The stratal architecture of deep-water minibasins is dominantly controlled by the interplay of two factors, structure growth and sediment supply. In this paper we explore the utility of a reduced-complexity, fast computational method (Onlapse-2D) to simulate stratal geometry, using a process of iteration to match the model output to available subsurface control (well logs and 3D seismic data). This approach was used to model the Miocene sediments in two intersecting lines of section in a complex mini-basin in the deep-water Campeche Basin, offshore Mexico. A good first-pass match between model output and geological observations was obtained, allowing us to identify and separate the effects of two distinct phases of compressional folding and a longer-lasting episode of salt withdrawal/diapirism, and to determine the timing of these events. This modelling provides an indication of the relative contribution of background sedimentation (pelagic and hemipelagic) vs. sediment-gravity-flow deposition (e.g. turbidites) within each layer of the model. The inferred timing of the compressional events derived from the model is consistent with other geological observations within the basin. The process of iteration towards a best-fit model leaves significant but local residual mismatches at several levels in the stratigraphy; these correspond to surfaces with anomalous negative (erosional) or positive (constructive depositional) palaeotopography. We label these mismatch surfaces “informative discrepancies” because the magnitude of the mismatch allows us to estimate the geometry and magnitude of the local seafloor topography. Reduced-complexity simulation is shown to be a useful and effective approach, which, when combined with an existing seismic interpretation, provides insight into the geometry and timing of controlling processes, indicates the nature of the sediments (background vs. sediment-gravity-flow) and aids in the identification of key erosional or constructional surfaces within the stratigraphy.
A Machine Learning Approach to Predict Groundwater Levels in California Reveals Ecosystems at Risk
Authors: Rohde Melissa M. , Biswas Tanushree , Housman Ian W. , Campbell Leah S. , Klausmeyer Kirk R. , Howard Jeanette K.
Published: December 2021

Groundwater dependent ecosystems (GDEs) are increasingly threatened worldwide, but the shallow groundwater resources that they are reliant upon are seldom monitored. In this study, we used satellite-based remote sensing to predict groundwater levels under groundwater dependent ecosystems across California, USA. Depth to groundwater was modelled for a 35-years period (1985–2019) within all groundwater dependent ecosystems across the state (n = 95,135). Our model was developed within Google Earth Engine using Landsat satellite imagery, climate data, and field-based groundwater data [n = 627 shallow (< 30 m) monitoring wells] as predictors in a Random Forest model. Our findings show that 1) 44% of groundwater dependent ecosystems have experienced a significant long-term (1985–2019) decline in groundwater levels compared to 28% with a significant increase; 2) groundwater level declines have intensified during the most recent two decades, with 39% of groundwater dependent ecosystems experiencing declines in the 2003–2019 period compared to 27% in the 1985–2002 period; and 3) groundwater declines are most prevalent within GDEs existing in areas of the state where sustainable groundwater management is absent. Our results indicate that declining shallow groundwater levels may be adversely impacting California’s groundwater dependent ecosystems. Particularly where groundwater levels have fallen beneath plant roots or streams thereby affecting key life processes, such as forest recruitment/succession, or hydrological processes, such as streamflow that affects aquatic habitat. In the absence of groundwater monitoring well data, our model and findings can be used to help state and local water agencies fill in data gaps of shallow groundwater conditions, evaluate potential effects on GDEs, and improve sustainable groundwater management policy in California.
Brain Permeable AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Activator R481 Raises Glycaemia by Autonomic Nervous System Activation and Amplifies the Counterregulatory Response to Hypoglycaemia in Rats
Authors: Cruz Ana M. , Partridge Katie M. , Malekizadeh Yasaman , Vlachaki Walker Julia M. , Weightman Potter Paul G. , Pye Katherine R. , Shaw Simon J. , Ellacott Kate L. J. , Beall Craig
Published: December 2021

Aim

We evaluated the efficacy of a novel brain permeable “metformin-like” AMP-activated protein kinase activator, R481, in regulating glucose homeostasis.

Materials and Methods

We used glucose sensing hypothalamic GT1-7 neuronal cells and pancreatic αTC1.9 α-cells to examine the effect of R481 on AMPK pathway activation and cellular metabolism. Glucose tolerance tests and hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic and hypoglycemic clamps were used in Sprague-Dawley rats to assess insulin sensitivity and hypoglycemia counterregulation, respectively.

Results

In vitro, we demonstrate that R481 increased AMPK phosphorylation in GT1-7 and αTC1.9 cells. In Sprague-Dawley rats, R481 increased peak glucose levels during a glucose tolerance test, without altering insulin levels or glucose clearance. The effect of R481 to raise peak glucose levels was attenuated by allosteric brain permeable AMPK inhibitor SBI-0206965. This effect was also completely abolished by blockade of the autonomic nervous system using hexamethonium. During hypoglycemic clamp studies, R481 treated animals had a significantly lower glucose infusion rate compared to vehicle treated controls. Peak plasma glucagon levels were significantly higher in R481 treated rats with no change to plasma adrenaline levels. In vitro, R481 did not alter glucagon release from αTC1.9 cells, but increased glycolysis. Non brain permeable AMPK activator R419 enhanced AMPK activity in vitro in neuronal cells but did not alter glucose excursion in vivo.

Conclusions

These data demonstrate that peripheral administration of the brain permeable “metformin-like” AMPK activator R481 increases blood glucose by activation of the autonomic nervous system and amplifies the glucagon response to hypoglycemia in rats. Taken together, our data suggest that R481 amplifies the counterregulatory response to hypoglycemia by a central rather than a direct effect on the pancreatic α-cell. These data provide proof-of-concept that central AMPK could be a target for future drug development for prevention of hypoglycemia in diabetes.
Asynchrony of Apical Polarization, Luminogenesis, and Functional Differentiation in the Developing Thyroid Gland
Authors: Johansson Ellen , Liang Shawn , Moccia Carmen , Carlsson Therese , Andersson Daniel , Fagman Henrik , Nilsson Mikael
Published: December 2021

Follicular thyroid tissue originates from progenitors derived from a midline endodermal primordium. Current understanding infers that folliculogenesis in the embryonic thyroid designates the latest morphogenetic event taking place after the final anatomical shape and position of the gland is established. However, this concept does not consider the fact that the thyroid isthmus develops chronologically before the lobes and also contains all progenitors required for lobulation. To elucidate whether cells committed to a thyroid fate might be triggered to differentiate asynchronously related to maturation and developmental stage, mouse embryonic thyroid tissues from E12.5-17.5 were subjected to immunofluorescent labeling of biomarkers (progenitors: NKX2-1; differentiation: thyroglobulin/TG); folliculogenesis: E-cadherin/CDH1; luminogenesis: mucin 1/MUC1; apical polarity: pericentrin/PCNT; basement membrane: laminin; growth: Ki67), quantitative RT-PCR analysis (Nkx2.1, Tg, Muc1) and transmission electron microscopy. Tg expression was detectable as early as E12.5 and gradually increased >1000-fold until E17.5. Muc1 and Nkx2.1 transcript levels increased in the same time interval. Prior to lobulation (E12.5-13.5), MUC1 and TG distinguished pre-follicular from progenitor cells in the developing isthmus characterized by intense cell proliferation. Luminogenesis comprised redistribution of MUC1+ vesicles or vacuoles, transiently associated with PCNT, to the apical cytoplasm and the subsequent formation of MUC1+ nascent lumens. Apical polarization of pre-follicular cells and lumen initiation involved submembraneous vesicular traffic, reorganization of adherens junctions and ciliogenesis. MUC1 did not co-localize with TG until a lumen with a MUC1+ apical membrane was established. MUC1 delineated the lumen of all newly formed follicles encountered in the developing lobes at E15.5-17.5. Folliculogenesis started before establishment of a complete follicular basal lamina. These observations indicate that embryonic thyroid differentiation is an asynchronous process consistent with the idea that progenitors attaining a stationary position in the connecting isthmus portion undergo apical polarization and generate follicles already at a primordial stage of thyroid development, i.e. foregoing growth of the lobes. Although the thyroid isthmus eventually comprises minute amounts of the total thyroid volume and contributes little to the overall hormone production, it is of principal interest that local cues related to the residence status of cells – independently of a prevailing high multiplication rate – govern the thyroid differentiation program.
Structure Optimization of Outlet Uniformity for a Comas Tower Dryer
Authors: Liao Hebin , Zhang Wei , Borucki Sebastian , Jiang Jiasen , Lin Tianqin , Li Zhixiong
Published: December 2021

Tobacco drying is an important part in the whole process of cigarette production, and its quality is directly related to the quality of cigarettes. CTD (Comas Tower Dryer) is a new type of airflow dryer, which is widely used in the tobacco industry because of its high drying efficiency. In actual production, the uneven outlet of the tobacco cutter leads to a stacking phenomenon, which affects the subsequent process of production. In this paper, the distribution of the internal flow field of the drying tower was studied from the aspects of the overlap degree of the orifice plate and deformation of the top structure at the top of the drying tower to explore the way to optimize the inner flow field to lead to the uneven distribution of the outlet. The results show that the structure whose contact position between the wall and the outlet extending outward can improve the uniformity of the outlet, while the overlap degree of the orifice plate had no effect on the uniformity of the outlet.
Tolerance of Electromagnetic Relay to Voltage Sags and Short Interruptions
Authors: Zhang Huaying , Wang Qing , You Yihong
Published: December 2021

This paper studies the tolerance of electromagnetic relay (EMR) under voltage sag and short interruptions on the basis of response mechanism analysis and the extensive tests. First, it introduces the structure of EMR and proposes response mechanism of EMR under voltage sag. Then, a detailed test plan is presented, including the information of test platform, testing condition, EMRs used in test, list of test, test procedure, and the measured waveforms. Magnitude and duration of the sags are not only the characteristics to be considered to investigate EMR’s tolerance. The other factors, which may have significance influence on tolerance of EMR, are considered here, including point-on-wave (POW), phase angle jump (PAJ), harmonic, magnitude variation in pre- and post-sag segments, two-stage sag, and slow recovery sag. Extensive tests results are presented in the form of voltage-tolerance curves (VTCs). Besides magnitude and duration, POW, PAJ, and two-stage sag have a significant influence on the tolerance of EMR. Other factors only have a tiny impact on the tolerance of EMR. The results show that the magnitude tolerance of EMR is 48–74% of Unom, and duration tolerance is 5–28 ms; they are useful for the technical assessment of EMR’s tolerance to voltage sags and short interruptions, and for the economic assessment of the industry process trip due to its disengagement. Test results also benefit for choosing proper EMR and mitigation device in the complicated operating environment.