bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methods on Visual Positioning Based on Basketball Shooting Direction Standardisation
Authors: Huang Yiqun , Liu XiaoYun
Published: March 2022

The existing basketball training shooting direction correction method has the problems of low correction accuracy and poor self-adaptability, and proposes a basketball training shooting direction correction method based on visual perception. A visual localisation algorithm for tracking feature points of object targets is used as the basis for the process of visual robot localisation and its effects, from camera calibration, template matching, background modelling and foreground target separation to feature point extraction, motion estimation, and Kalman filtering. An in-depth understanding and analysis of the traditional corner point detection algorithm is presented, on the basis of which improvements are proposed. An accurate tracking method based on improved Harris corner point extraction is introduced, which builds on the traditional Harris feature point detection by using the changing relationship between the gradient of the grey value of the pixels near the corner point, using simple operations and analysis to exclude some pseudocorner points and noncorner points, and further processing the retained points to derive the correct feature points. The code of this algorithm is written to finally achieve its detection effect, and compared with the traditional algorithm, it is concluded that this algorithm can then extract more accurate corner points in a shorter time, which lays the foundation for the next step of accurate basketball tracking, reflecting the practicality of this algorithm.
Wavelet Operational Matrices and Lagrange Interpolation Differential Quadrature‐Based Numerical Algorithms for Simulation of Nanofluid in Porous Channel
Authors: Alqahtani Aisha M. , Jiwari Ram
Published: March 2022

This work analyses the features of nanofluid flow and thermal transmission (NFTT) in a rectangular channel which is asymmetric by developing two numerical algorithms based on scale‐2 Haar wavelets (S2HWs), Lagrange’s interpolation differential quadrature technique (LIDQT), and quasilinearization process (QP). In the simulation procedure, first of all, using similarity transformation (ST), the governing unsteady 2D flow model is changed into two highly non‐linear ODEs. After that, QP is applied to linearize the non‐linear ODEs, and finally S2HWs and LIDQT are used to simulate the non‐linear system of ODEs. In results and discussion section, the parameters Reynolds number (R), expansion ratio and Nusselt (Nu), and nanoparticle volume fraction (φ) are analysed with respect to velocity and temperature profiles. The proposed techniques are easy to implement for fluid and heat transfer (FHT) problems.
Dural Injury Treatment with a Full-Endoscopic Transforaminal Approach: A Case Report and Description of Surgical Technique
Authors: Bergamaschi João Paulo Machado , de Araújo Fernando Flores , Soares Thiago Queiroz , Teixeira Kelsen de Oliveira , Sandon Luiz Henrique Dias , Squiapati Ricardo Graciano , Depieri Gustavo Vitelli , Lugão Ariel Falbel , de Assis Rangel Roberto , Bergamaschi Esthael Cristina Querido Avelar
Published: March 2022

Introduction. The objective of this study was to describe a surgical technique that uses transforaminal full-endoscopic access, which is different from the existing protocol, and to demonstrate another method of dural tear repair during endoscopic spine surgery. Background. Endoscopic spine surgery was initially described for lumbar disc pathologies. Technical advances and new materials have made it possible to treat cervical and thoracic spinal degenerative disorders. These advances have also made it possible to treat surgical complications, notably dural tears with CSF fistulas. The literature indicates that the incidence of these injuries ranges from 1% to 17%. Materials and Methods. Descriptive technical note of innovative and improved endoscopic surgical procedure exemplified with illustrative clinical case and comparative literature review. Results. There is only one report describing a full-endoscopic suture technique for dural sac repair. The gold standard for treatment of the most significant nonpunctate lesions continues to be a conversion to open surgery for lesion closure. Conversion can be problematic because most surgeries are performed under sedation and local anesthesia. Conclusions. In this case report and the new endoscopic suture technique described here, we show that primary correction of dural tears through endoscopy is possible. In addition to representing a paradigm break in solving one of the main complications of these procedures, it can expand the possibilities of spine endoscopy.
Research on Gas Extraction Technology of Directional Long Borehole in Ultrathick Coal Seam
Authors: Li Yaobin , Jiang Tao , Guo Xin
Published: March 2022

Gas extraction is an important way to control gas disasters. The effect of traditional gas extraction drilling on ultrathick coal seam is not well. In order to improve the rate of gas extraction, directional long drilling is used to replace conventional drilling for coal seam gas extraction. Through the combination of numerical simulation and field experimentation, the stress distribution around borehole is analyzed, and the influence of different time, different gas pressure, different negative pressure of extraction, and different permeability of coal body on directional borehole is simulated. According to the experimentation of Baode Mine, the data of gas drainage volume of conventional directional drilling are recorded and analyzed. The results indicate that the directional drilling is more suitable for Baode Mine 81306 working face of coal seam 8 gas extraction operation. Directional drilling is better than conventional drilling in work, with good drainage stability and large gas drainage volume, which can greatly reduce the outburst time and improve the gas drainage rate.
English Text Readability Measurement Based on Convolutional Neural Network: A Hybrid Network Model
Authors: Jian Lihua , Xiang Huiqun , Le Guobin
Published: March 2022

Text readability is very important in meeting people’s information needs. With the explosive growth of modern information, the measurement demand of text readability is increasing. In view of the text structure of words, sentences, and texts, a hybrid network model based on convolutional neural network is proposed to measure the readability of English texts. The traditional method of English text readability measurement relies too much on the experience of artificial experts to extract features, which limits its practicability. With the increasing variety and quantity of text readability measurement features to be extracted, it is more and more difficult to extract deep features manually, and it is easy to introduce irrelevant features or redundant features, resulting in the decline of model performance. This paper introduces the concept of hybrid network model in deep learning; constructs a hybrid network model suitable for English text readability measurement by combining convolutional neural network, bidirectional long short-term memory network, and attention mechanism network; and replaces manual automatic feature extraction by machine learning, which greatly improves the measurement efficiency and performance of text readability.
A Fast VANET-Assisted Scheme for Event Data Recorders
Authors: Liu Wei , Shen Weiqiang , Harn Lein , Luo Minjing
Published: March 2022

An event data recorder (EDR) is a device installed in a vehicle to record information. Similar to a black box in an airplane, an EDR is used in the study of automobile accidents. Many schemes have been proposed that use vehicle network technology to help record EDR data, including schemes involving storing data on roadside units or nearby vehicles and schemes leveraging blockchain technology. However, these schemes do not take into account the vehicle company’s server; with the increased use of autonomous vehicles, the data related to these vehicles are always uploaded to the vehicle company’s server. In this scenario, we classify the situation into different cases, according to whether or not it is an emergency and whether the vehicle and the server are connected. For these cases, we propose a scheme whereby a vehicle uploads the EDR data to a cloud server and sends the evidence of storage to the nearby vehicle through a vehicular ad hoc network. Our scheme offers a fast response due to the use of symmetric cryptography algorithms while also considering security requirements.
Construction of Urban Flood Disaster Emergency Management System Using Scenario Construction Technology
Authors: Li Xianghai , Wang Yixin
Published: March 2022

Due to the global climate anomaly, ecological environment damage, human activities, and other reasons, flood disaster has become a major threat to mankind. The emergency rescue resources under different subject management and different emergencies have different characteristics, attributes, and management modes, which restrict the unified dispatching, overall management, and efficient utilization of the comprehensive rescue command platform. The frequent occurrence of natural disasters can not only easily affect the public security of society but also pose a great threat to the safety of Chinese people’s lives and property. As the first-line person in charge of China’s response to natural disasters, local governments cannot deal with natural disasters well. More than thousands of people die from natural disasters in China every year. The economic losses caused amounted to hundreds of billions. The occurrence of various floods and natural disasters not only affects the local economic and social development but also relates to the production and life of the local people, and the stability of the local society and national unity. How to effectively deal with flood disaster is also an important index system to test the execution and management ability of the Party and the government. Therefore, it is necessary to deeply study flood disaster from the theoretical height, hoping to provide reference theoretical support and practical guidance for local county-level government flood disaster emergency management. At the beginning of the urban flood disaster, how to choose an appropriate response plan and implement it in time is an important way to effectively reduce disaster losses. Starting with the basic concept of flood disaster, this study studies and discusses the related theories of flood disaster emergency management, introduces the general situation of flood disaster emergency management, and analyzes the application of scenario construction technology in emergency management.
Interval Prediction of Photovoltaic Power Using Improved NARX Network and Density Peak Clustering Based on Kernel Mahalanobis Distance
Authors: Chen Wen-He , Cheng Long-Sheng , Chang Zhi-Peng , Zhou Han-Ting , Yao Qi-Feng , Peng Zhai-Ming , Fu Li-Qun , Chen Zong-Xiang
Published: March 2022

Photovoltaic (PV) power forecasting can provide strong support for the safe operation of the power system. Existing forecasting methods are ineffective for grid scheduling decisions or risk analysis. The novel multicluster interval prediction method is proposed to consider the volatility and randomness of PV power output. First, this method utilizes the sparse autoencoder (SAE) and Bayesian regularized NARX network (BRNARX) for point forecasting of PV power. Second, density peak clustering improved by kernel Mahalanobis distance (KMDDPC) is applied to classify the dataset into multiple clusters, including forecasting error and meteorological factors. Finally, the joint probability density is established by multivariate kernel density estimation (MKDE) to accomplish the PV power interval prediction. The proposed hybrid method is applied for the interval prediction of PV power at Yulara, Australia. Comparative research of point forecasting is implemented to evaluate the machine learning and deep learning methods, with the proposed SAE‐BRNARX under four different periods. Results shows that the average values of nRMSE, MRE, nMAE, and R2 for the four periods are 4.45%, 0.90%, −0.15%, 3.39%, and 95.93%, respectively. Moreover, the results of interval prediction obtained by the other interval prediction approaches are compared with the proposed KMDDPC‐MKDE. It shows that the average values of PICP, PINAW, ACE, and nMPICD for four periods are 93.93%, 9.50%, 3.93%, and 7.10% at 90% confidence level, respectively. Outcomes demonstrate that the proposed method can obtain more accuracy, a higher coverage rate, narrower average bandwidth, and a closer distance between the middle of interval and actual value than other methods.
The Use of Scientific Programming Method under Visual Communication Design Concept in Urban Landscape Design
Authors: Huang Jing , Wang Zhongyue
Published: March 2022

The purpose of this study is to provide more orderly and convenient urban planning ideas for the fast-paced life in the complex urban environment. The current sign design is analyzed according to the needs of urban residents for barrier-free sign design, and the sign design based on urban space color is established. An urban landscape visual communication optimization method is proposed based on hue saturation value (HSV) technology. The multiscale retinex (MSR) algorithm is used as a reference for simulation experiments. The experimental results show that the designed optimization method is significantly better than the traditional method in the expression effect of visual communication. First, the attention time of the sign design can be reduced by more than 3 seconds, which can effectively improve the lives of urban residents and tourists and improve their browsing efficiency. Next, 94% of the citizens believe that optimized urban signs are more prominent than traditional ones. Finally, the sign design optimization method proposed provides an image with a higher definition than the traditional sign design method. The proposed sign design and optimization scheme can effectively coordinate the relationship among urban landscape design, guided objects, and cities, help busy urban life, and provide new ideas for the development direction of visual communication design.
Effects of Acupuncture Combined with Rehabilitation on Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome in Females: A Meta-Analysis Running Head—Acupuncture Combined with Rehabilitation on Chronic Pelvic Pain
Authors: Zheng Jie , Lai Xinsheng , Zhu Weifeng , Huang Yingjie , Chen Chuyun , Chen Jianqin
Published: March 2022

Objective. To investigate the clinical efficacy of this combined treatment for chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) by meta-analysis. Methods. Relevant articles were retrieved from PubMed, CNKI, Wanfang Data, Web of Science, and Embase, including randomized controlled trials on acupuncture combined with rehabilitation for CPPS in females. Results. A total of 224 articles were retrieved in this study, and 14 studies were finally identified for inclusion. Among them, the treatment group was treated with acupuncture combined with pelvic floor rehabilitation therapy, while the control group was treated with acupuncture or pelvic floor rehabilitation therapy. Meta-analysis showed that the treatment effective rate in the treatment group was significantly higher than that in the control group (OR = 6.54; 95% CI: 4.20, 10.21; P < 0.05). After treatment, compared with the control group, the treatment group showed lower incidences of adverse reactions (OR = 0.16; 95% CI: 0.09, 0.27; P < 0.05), bladder prolapse (OR = 0.36; 95% CI: 0.18, 0.73; P < 0.05), cervical prolapse (OR = 0.22; 95% CI: 0.10, 0.49; P < 0.05), and pelvic peritoneal hernia (OR = 0.14; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.38; P < 0.05); in addition, the treatment group was also associated with lower pain score (SMD = −4.05; 95% CI: −6.75, −1.34; P < 0.05) and pelvic dysfunction score (SMD = -4.35; 95% CI: -5.37, -3.34; P < 0.05). Conclusion. Acupuncture combined with rehabilitation is effective for CPPS in females, which can significantly reduce the pain intensity and improve pelvic dysfunction of patients.
Isotopic Age of the Xiong’er Group Volcanic Rocks and Its Geological Significance in Western Henan, China
Authors: Dong Wenchao , Pang Xucheng , Qu Weixun , Hou Guangshun
Published: March 2022

The Xiong’er Group is mainly distributed in western Henan, southern Shanxi, and southeastern Shaanxi. As a set of low-grade metamorphic and low-deformation volcanic rocks formed in the transition period during the tectonic evolution of the North China Craton in the Precambrian, the tectonic and magmatic evolution information of this period are well recorded. The accurate isotopic dating of the Xiong’er Group has great significance to the study of the stratigraphic division and formation of volcanic rocks in the Xiong’er Group and the improved cognition of regional tectonic magmatism. In this study, through the SHRIMP (sensitive high-resolution ion microprobe) zircon uranium-lead (U-Pb) isotope dating of the volcanic rocks of the Xiong’er Group in the Xiong’er Mountain, the research results showed that the age data were separated into two intervals, the magmatic zircon ages from 1836 to 1711 Ma and the inherited zircon ages from

2415
±
19

to

2193
±
34
 
Ma

. The isotopic age of magmatic zircon was considered to represent the formation age of the Jidanping Formation in the Xiong’er Mountain, and the isotopic ages of the inherited zircons were consistent with the formation ages of the Taihua Group supracrustal rocks in the lower Xiong’er Group. Combined with previous studies on isotope and rock geochemistry of volcanic rocks in the Xiong’er Group, it was believed that the formation ages of the volcanic rocks of the Xiong’er Group are between 1874 and 1618 Ma, among the ages of the Xushan Formation, Jidanping Formation, and Majiahe Formation, which were concentrated between 1874 and 1800 Ma, 1836 and 1711 Ma, and 1780 and 1618 Ma, respectively. The age of inherited zircon in the volcanic rocks of the Xiong’er Group indicated that the formation of the volcanic rocks of the Xiong’er Group had the addition of stratigraphic materials from the Taihua Group.
Design of Children’s Motor Skills Training Management System Based on Human Movement Recognition Algorithm of Depth Information
Authors: Cheng ZhengYi , Li Jihui
Published: March 2022

With the deepening of the concept of all-round development, the training of children’s motor skills is becoming more and more popular. Children’s motor skills training management system is based on the product of children’s motor skills training combined with modern technology. This article aims to design a management system for children’s motor skills training based on human motion recognition methods. This article proposes a human motion recognition algorithm based on depth information. The traditional human motion recognition algorithm is more biased towards children’s motor skills. For the design of the system, this article also pays great attention to children’s experience. After analyzing the performance of the system in this study, it is found that the system is not ideal for multitarget human motion recognition. Therefore, this article optimizes the recognition. After the optimization, the recognition rate of the head, upper body, and lower body of the multiobjective human motion recognition is more than 80%.
Construction and Analysis of Urban Cultural Plane Space Mode considering Particle Swarm Cultural Scientific Computing Algorithm
Authors: Yu Jiayong , Li Qi
Published: March 2022

In the tide of economic and social internationalization and high-speed urbanization, urban culture has increasingly attracted widespread attention from all walks of life and has a very critical strategic significance in the construction of urban space. This paper aims to construct and analyze the plane space mode of urban culture based on the particle swarm cultural scientific computing algorithm. This article first explains the concept of urban cultural space. Urban cultural space uses urban spatial structure as a media carrier and uses urban cultural time for vertical extension and development; then we proposed the particle swarm cultural scientific calculation algorithm and gave the particle swarm algorithm flowchart; then based on the particle swarm optimization algorithm, the evaluation of the configuration performance of urban cultural facilities is researched and discussed, and at the same time, the evolution law of urban spatial morphology is explored based on the particle swarm optimization algorithm. The particle swarm algorithm is a random search algorithm based on group cooperation developed by simulating the foraging behavior of birds. Urban cultural space is the development of urban space based on urban culture. It plays a special and important role in urban cultural development and urban space planning. According to the statistics of the survey and research results, the utilization rate of city-level cultural facilities in City A is 77, the utilization rate of district-level cultural facilities is 72, the utilization rate of street-community cultural facilities is 69, and the overall evaluation score is 70. It shows that there are significant differences in the actual use of cultural facilities, so it is particularly important to eliminate the differences in the use of cultural facilities between urban and rural areas. In the exploration of the law of urban spatial morphology evolution, it is found that the number of college students, total real estate investment, urban population, and total commercial housing sales have a significant impact on urban spatial expansion and evolution.
A Novel Synthetic Lethal Approach to Target MYC-Driven Cancers
Authors: Chabanon Roman M. , Postel-Vinay Sophie
Published: March 2022

The MYC proto-oncogene family encompasses three related transcription factors (MYC, MYCL, and MYCN), which are master regulators of cellular programs orchestrating multiple hallmarks of cancer, including proliferation, metabolism, invasiveness, and immune surveillance. MYC activation is one of the most frequent alterations in cancer, induced by genetic, epigenetic, or posttranslational alterations of MYC itself, or of MYC-related proteins or pathways. Sun and colleagues found a unique function of the rate-limiting nucleotide synthesis enzyme CTP synthase 1 (CTPS1) in the survival of MYC-driven cancer cells. They further identified a novel synthetic lethal strategy to combat MYC-driven cancers by combining CTPS1 inhibitors with ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein inhibitors, which exploits the inherent vulnerability of MYC-driven tumors to nucleotide shortage and DNA replication stress. These findings open novel therapeutic avenues for targeting the traditionally “undruggable” MYC-driven cancers, which represent one of the highest unmet clinical needs in cancer.

See related article by Sun et al. p. 1013
IDO Vaccine Ablates Immune-Suppressive Myeloid Populations and Enhances Antitumor Effects Independent of Tumor Cell IDO Status
Authors: Nandre Rahul , Verma Vivek , Gaur Pankaj , Patil Veerupaxagouda , Yang Xingdong , Ramlaoui Zainab , Shobaki Nour , Andersen Mads Hald , Pedersen Ayako Wakatsuki , Zocca Mai-Britt , Mkrtichyan Mikayel , Gupta Seema , Khleif Samir N.
Published: March 2022

The immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME) does not allow generation and expansion of antitumor effector cells. One of the potent immunosuppressive factors present in the TME is the indoleamine-pyrrole 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) enzyme, produced mainly by cancer cells and suppressive immune cells of myeloid origin. In fact, IDO+ myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and dendritic cells (DC) tend to be more suppressive than their IDO− counterparts. Hence, therapeutic approaches that would target the IDO+ cells in the TME, while sparing the antigen-presenting functions of IDO− myeloid populations, are needed. Using an IDO-specific peptide vaccine (IDO vaccine), we explored the possibility of generating effector cells against IDO and non-IDO tumor-derived antigens. For this, IDO-secreting (B16F10 melanoma) and non–IDO-secreting (TC-1) mouse tumor models were employed. We showed that the IDO vaccine significantly reduced tumor growth and enhanced survival of mice in both the tumor models, which associated with a robust induction of IDO-specific effector cells in the TME. The IDO vaccine significantly enhanced the antitumor efficacy of non-IDO tumor antigen–specific vaccines, leading to an increase in the number of total and antigen-specific activated CD8+ T cells (IFNγ+ and granzyme B+). Treatment with the IDO vaccine significantly reduced the numbers of IDO+ MDSCs and DCs, and immunosuppressive regulatory T cells in both tumor models, resulting in enhanced therapeutic ratios. Together, we showed that vaccination against IDO is a promising therapeutic option for both IDO-producing and non–IDO-producing tumors. The IDO vaccine selectively ablates the IDO+ compartment in the TME, leading to a significant enhancement of the immune responses against other tumor antigen–specific vaccines.
Cumulative Incidence and Clinical Risk Factors of Radiation Cystitis after Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer
Authors: Makino Katsuhiro , Sato Yusuke , Takenaka Ryosuke , Yamashita Hideomi , Akiyama Yoshiyuki , Yamada Yuta , Nakamura Masaki , Kawai Taketo , Yamada Daisuke , Suzuki Motofumi , Kume Haruki
Published: March 2022

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the cumulative incidence of overall and severe radiation cystitis following external beam radiation therapy for prostate cancer and investigate the clinical factors predictive of radiation cystitis. Methods: This retrospective study comprised 246 patients who received external beam radiation therapy for localized or locally advanced prostate cancer between 2013 and 2016 in our institution. Of these, 189 received primary radiation therapy and 57 received adjuvant/salvage radiation therapy. Radiation cystitis was recorded using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0 definition, and severe radiation cystitis was defined as grade 3 or higher. All medical records were reviewed to calculate the cumulative incidence of radiation cystitis. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate its association with clinicopathologic features. Results: The median follow-up period after radiation therapy was 56 months (range 5–81). The 5-year cumulative incidence of radiation cystitis and severe radiation cystitis was 16.2% and 3.0%, respectively. Multivariate analyses identified radiation therapy in the adjuvant/salvage setting was the sole risk factor associated with the development of radiation cystitis (hazard ratio: 2.75, p = 0.02). Conclusions: Radiation therapy in the post-prostatectomy setting was associated with increased risk of radiation cystitis compared with radiotherapy as the primary treatment.
Inhaled Nitric Oxide as a Preoperative Test (INOP Test I)
Authors: Balzer David T. , Kort Henry W. , Day Ronald W. , Corneli Howard M. , Kovalchin John P. , Cannon Bryan C. , Kaine Stephen F. , Ivy D. Dunbar , Webber Steven A. , Rothman Abraham , Ross Robert D. , Aggarwal Sanjeev , Takahashi Masato , Waldman J. Deane
Published: March 2022

Background

This study was performed to determine whether a preoperative hemodynamic evaluation with oxygen and inhaled nitric oxide identifies patients with pulmonary hypertension who are appropriate candidates for corrective cardiac surgery or transplantation more accurately than an evaluation with oxygen alone.

Methods and Results

At 10 institutions, 124 patients with heart disease and severe pulmonary hypertension underwent cardiac catheterization to determine operability. The ratio of pulmonary and systemic vascular resistance (Rp:Rs) was determined at baseline while breathing ∼21% to 30% oxygen, and in ∼100% oxygen and ∼100% oxygen with 10 to 80 parts per million nitric oxide to evaluate pulmonary vascular reactivity. Surgery was performed in 74 patients. Twelve patients died or developed right heart failure secondary to pulmonary hypertension following surgery. Rp:Rs<0.33 and a 20% decrease in Rp:Rs from baseline were chosen as 2 criteria for operability to determine, in retrospect, the efficacy of preoperative testing in patient selection. In comparison to an evaluation with oxygen alone, sensitivity (64% versus 97%) and accuracy (68% versus 90%) were increased by an evaluation with oxygen and nitric oxide when Rp:Rs<0.33 was used as the criterion for operability. Specificity was only 8% when a 20% decrease in Rp:Rs from baseline was used as the criterion for operability.

Conclusion

By using a combination of oxygen and inhaled nitric oxide, a greater number of appropriate candidates for corrective cardiac surgery or transplantation can be identified during preoperative testing when a specific value of Rp:Rs is used as a criterion for operability.
Construction of Autologous Human Heart Valves Based on an Acellular Allograft Matrix
Authors: Cebotari Serghei , Mertsching Heike , Kallenbach Klaus , Kostin Sawa , Repin Oleg , Batrinac Aurel , Kleczka Carmen , Ciubotaru Anatol , Haverich Axel
Published: March 2022

Objective

Tissue engineered heart valves based on polymeric or xenogeneic matrices have several disadvantages, such as instability of biodegradable polymeric scaffolds, unknown transfer of animal related infectious diseases, and xenogeneic rejection patterns. To overcome these limitations we developed tissue engineered heart valves based on human matrices reseeded with autologous cells.

Methods and Results

Aortic (n=5) and pulmonary (n=6) human allografts were harvested from cadavers (6.2±3.1 hours after death) under sterile conditions. Homografts stored in Earle’s Medium 199 enriched with 100 IU/mL Penicillin-Streptomycin for 2 to 28 days (mean 7.3±10.2 days) showed partially preserved cellular viability (MTT assay) and morphological integrity of the extracellular matrix (H-E staining). For decellularization, valves were treated with Trypsin/EDTA resulting in cell-free scaffolds (DNA-assay) with preserved extracellular matrix (confocal microscopy). Primary human venous endothelial cells (HEC) were cultivated and labeled with carboxy-fluorescein diacetate-succinimidyl ester in vitro. After recellularization under fluid conditions, EC were detected on the luminal surfaces of the matrix. They appeared as a monolayer of positively labeled cells for PECAM-1, VE-cadherin and Flk-1. Reseeded EC on the acellular allograft scaffold exhibited high metabolic activity (MTT assay).

Conclusions

Earle’s Medium 199 enriched with low concentration of antibiotics represents an excellent medium for long time preservation of extracellular matrix. After complete acellularization with Trypsin/EDTA, recellularization under shear stress conditions of the allogeneic scaffold results in the formation of a viable confluent HEC monolayer. These results represent a promising step toward the construction of autologous heart valves based on acellular human allograft matrix.
Predictors of Severe Right Ventricular Failure After Implantable Left Ventricular Assist Device Insertion: Analysis of 245 Patients
Authors: Ochiai Yoshie , McCarthy Patrick M. , Smedira Nicholas G. , Banbury Michael K. , Navia Jose L. , Feng Jingyuan , Hsu Amy P. , Yeager Michael L. , Buda Tiffany , Hoercher Katherine J. , Howard Michael W. , Takagaki Masami , Doi Kazuyoshi , Fukamachi Kiyotaka
Published: March 2022

Background

Insertion of an implantable left ventricular assist device (LVAD) complicated by early right ventricular (RV) failure has a poor prognosis and is largely unpredictable. Prediction of RV failure after LVAD placement would lead to more precise patient selection and optimal device selection.

Methods and Results

We reviewed data from 245 patients (mean age, 54±11 years; 85% male) with 189 HeartMate (77%) and 56 Novacor (23%) LVADs. Ischemic cardiomyopathy predominated (65%), and 29% had dilated cardiomyopathy. Overall, RV assist device (RVAD) support was required after LVAD insertion for 23 patients (9%). We compared clinical and hemodynamic parameters before LVAD insertion between RVAD (n=23) and No-RVAD patients (n=222) to determine preoperative risk factors for severe RV failure. By univariate analysis, female gender, small body surface area, nonischemic etiology, preoperative mechanical ventilation, circulatory support before LVAD insertion, low mean and diastolic pulmonary artery pressures (PAPs), low RV stroke work (RVSW), and low RVSW index (RVSWI) were significantly associated with RVAD use. Elevated PAP and pulmonary vascular resistance were not risk factors. Risk factors by multivariable logistic regression were preoperative circulatory support (odds ratio [OR], 5.3), female gender (OR, 4.5), and nonischemic etiology (OR, 3.3).

Conclusions

The need for circulatory support, female gender, and nonischemic etiology were the most significant predictors for RVAD use after LVAD insertion. Regarding hemodynamics, low PAP and low RVSWI, reflecting low RV contractility, were important parameters. This information may lead to better patient selection for isolated LVAD implantation.
Immediate Versus Delayed Endovascular Treatment of Post-Traumatic Aortic Pseudoaneurysms and Type B Dissections: Retrospective Analysis and Premises to the Upcoming European Trial
Authors: Bortone Alessandro S. , Schena Stefano , D’Agostino Donato , Dialetto Giovanni , Paradiso Vito , Mannatrizio G. , Fiore Tommaso , Cotrufo Maurizio , de Luca Tupputi Schinosa Luigi
Published: March 2022

Background

Stent grafting has been reported as a viable therapeutic option for the delayed treatment of traumatic rupture of the aortic isthmus as well as reconstruction of thoracic aortic dissections. We tested the hypothesis of whether immediate endovascular management offers clinical and pathological advantages over a delayed approach in patients with post-traumatic aortic pseudoaneurysms (PAPs) and Stanford type-B dissections (TBDs).

Methods

Thirty-one consecutive patients who were admitted with diagnosis of either PAP (n=10; 33.4±8.7 years) or TBD (n=21; 58.2±8.4 years) were respectively divided into 2 groups according to the timing of diagnosis and endovascular treatment after the traumatic or pathologic event: immediate ([lteq]2 weeks; PAP=6 and TBD=7) and delayed (>2 weeks; PAP=4 and TBD=14). Excluder®-Gore (11 in PAP and 8 in TBD) and Talent™-Medtronic (1 in PAP and 7 in TBD) endovascular stent grafts were deployed. Follow-up was performed at 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year and based on laboratory tests; chest angio-computed tomography scans of chest, abdomen, and pelvis; and transesophageal echocardiography.

Results

The endovascular procedure proved uneventful in all PAP patients who underwent either immediate or delayed treatment. In 1 PAP patient with delayed treatment, surgical removal of the pseudoaneurysm was still necessary because of further compression of the airway stem. All immediately treated TBD patients were also successful. However, in 8 of 13 TBD patients with delayed treatment (61.5%), a stent graft deployment was not possible because of complicated progression of the false lumen and multiple intimal entry tears: 1 patient benefited by fenestrations of the false lumen and 7 patients underwent medical therapy. One patient (8.3%) died because of retrograde dissection involving the aortic arch. All patients treated with endovascular stent grafts were discharged within 5 days.

Conclusions

An immediate endovascular management of PAP and TBD patients offers important advantages such as avoidance of high-risk surgical procedures and postoperative complications with short hospital stay. Moreover, it has been observed that an immediate endovascular treatment allows a safe management of all patients with complete healing of the aortic wall and regression of the pseudoaneurysm in the PAP group and thrombosis of the false lumen in TBD patients.
Targeting Preload in Heart Failure: Splanchnic Nerve Blockade and Beyond
Authors: Fudim Marat , Khan Muhammad Shahzeb , Paracha Anousheh Awais , Sunagawa Kenji , Burkhoff Daniel
Published: March 2022

Preload augmentation represents a critical mechanism for the cardiovascular system to increase effective circulating blood volume to increase cardiac filling pressures and, subsequently, for the heart to increase cardiac output. The splanchnic vascular compartment is the primary source of vascular capacity and thus the primary target for preload recruitment in humans. Under normal conditions, sympathetic stimulation of these primary venous vessels promotes the shift of blood from the splanchnic to the thoracic compartment and elevates preload and cardiac output. However, in heart failure, since filling pressures may be elevated at rest due to decreased venous capacitance, incremental recruitment of preload to enhance cardiac output may exacerbate congestion and limit exercise capacity. Accordingly, recent attention has focused on therapies designed to regulate splanchnic vascular redistribution to improve cardiac filling pressures and patient-centered outcomes such as quality of life and exercise capacity in patients with heart failure. In this review, we discuss the relevance of splanchnic circulation as a venous reservoir, the contribution of stressed blood volume to heart failure pathogenesis, and the implications for pharmacological therapeutic interventions to prevent heart failure decompensation. Further, we review emerging device-based approaches for cardiac preload reduction such as partial/complete occlusion of the superior vena cava or the inferior vena cava.
Heritability of Coronary Artery Disease: Insights From a Classical Twin Study
Authors: Drobni Zsofia D. , Kolossvary Marton , Karady Julia , Jermendy Adam L. , Tarnoki Adam D. , Tarnoki David L. , Simon Judit , Szilveszter Balint , Littvay Levente , Voros Szilard , Jermendy Gyorgy , Merkely Bela , Maurovich-Horvat Pal
Published: March 2022

Background:

Genetics have a strong influence on calcified atherosclerotic plaques; however, data regarding the heritability of noncalcified plaque volume are scarce. We aimed to evaluate genetic versus environmental influences on calcium (coronary artery calcification) score, noncalcified and calcified plaque volumes by coronary computed tomography angiography in adult twin pairs without known coronary artery disease.

Methods:

In the prospective BUDAPEST-GLOBAL (Burden of Atherosclerotic Plaques Study in Twins—Genetic Loci and the Burden of Atherosclerotic Lesions) classical twin study, we analyzed twin pairs without known coronary artery disease. All twins underwent coronary computed tomography angiography to assess coronary atherosclerotic plaque volumes. Structural equation models were used to quantify the contribution of additive genetic, common environmental, and unique environmental components to plaque volumes adjusted for age, gender, or atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk estimate and statin use.

Results:

We included 196 twins (mean age±SD, 56±9 years, 63.3% females), 120 monozygotic and 76 same-gender dizygotic pairs. Using structural equation models, noncalcified plaque volume was predominantly determined by environmental factors (common environment, 63% [95% CI, 56%–67%], unique environment, 37% [95% CI, 33%–44%]), while coronary artery calcification score and calcified plaque volumes had a relatively strong genetic heritability (additive genetic, 58% [95% CI, 50%–66%]; unique environmental, 42% [95% CI, 34%–50%] and additive genetic, 78% [95% CI, 73%–80%]; unique environmental, 22% [95% CI, 20%–27%]), respectively.

Conclusions:

Noncalcified plaque volume is mainly influenced by shared environmental factors, whereas coronary artery calcification score and calcified plaque volume are more determined by genetics. These findings emphasize the importance of early lifestyle interventions in preventing coronary plaque formation.

Registration:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT01738828.
Favorable Cardiovascular Health Is Associated With Lower Prevalence, Incidence, Extent, and Progression of Extracoronary Calcification: MESA
Authors: Ogunmoroti Oluseye , Osibogun Olatokunbo , Mathews Lena , Esuruoso Olumuyiwa A. , Ndumele Chiadi E. , Okunrintemi Victor , Burke Gregory L. , Blumenthal Roger S. , Budoff Matthew J. , Michos Erin D.
Published: March 2022

Background:

Ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) is associated with a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease. Extracoronary calcification (ECC)—measured at the aortic valve, mitral annulus, ascending thoracic aorta, and descending thoracic aorta—is an indicator of systemic atherosclerosis. This study examined whether favorable CVH was associated with a lower risk of ECC.

Methods:

We analyzed data from MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis) participants aged 45 to 84 years without cardiovascular disease at baseline. ECC was measured by noncontrast cardiac computed tomography scan at baseline and after an average of 2.4 years. Prevalent ECC was defined as an Agatston score >0 at the baseline scan. Incident ECC was defined as Agatston score >0 at the follow-up scan among participants with Agatston score of 0 at the baseline scan. Each CVH metric (smoking, physical activity, body mass index, diet, blood pressure, total cholesterol, and blood glucose) was scored 0 to 2 points, with 2 indicating ideal; 1, intermediate; and 0, poor. The aggregated CVH score was 0 to 14 points (0–8, inadequate; 9–10, average; 11–14, optimal). We used Poisson and linear mixed-effects regression models to examine the association between CVH and ECC adjusted for sociodemographic factors.

Results:

Of 6504 participants, 53% were women with a mean age (SD) of 62 (10) years. Optimal and average CVH scores were associated with lower ECC prevalence, incidence, and extent. For example, optimal CVH scores were associated with 57%, 56%, 70%, and 54% lower risk of incident aortic valve calcification, mitral annulus calcification, ascending thoracic aorta calcification, and descending thoracic aorta calcification, respectively. In addition, optimal and average CVH scores were associated with lower ECC progression at 2 years, although these associations were only significant for mitral annulus calcification and descending thoracic aorta calcification.

Conclusions:

In this multiethnic cohort, favorable CVH was associated with a lower risk of extracoronary atherosclerosis. These findings emphasize the importance of primordial prevention as an intervention to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease.
Migraine‐Associated Mutation in the Na,K‐ATPase Leads to Disturbances in Cardiac Metabolism and Reduced Cardiac Function
Authors: Staehr Christian , Rohde Palle Duun , Krarup Nikolaj Thure , Ringgaard Steffen , Laustsen Christoffer , Johnsen Jacob , Nielsen Rikke , Beck Hans Christian , Morth Jens Preben , Lykke‐Hartmann Karin , Jespersen Nichlas Riise , Abramochkin Denis , Nyegaard Mette , Bøtker Hans Erik , Aalkjaer Christian , Matchkov Vladimir
Published: March 2022

Background

Mutations inATP1A2gene encoding the Na,K‐ATPase α2isoform are associated with familial hemiplegic migraine type 2. Migraine with aura is a known risk factor for heart disease. The Na,K‐ATPase is important for cardiac function, but its role for heart disease remains unknown. We hypothesized thatATP1A2is a susceptibility gene for heart disease and aimed to assess the underlying disease mechanism.

Methods and Results

Mice heterozygous for the familial hemiplegic migraine type 2–associated G301R mutation in theAtp1a2gene (α2+/G301Rmice) and matching wild‐type controls were compared. Reduced expression of the Na,K‐ATPase α2isoform and increased expression of the α1isoform were observed in hearts from α2+/G301Rmice (Western blot). Left ventricular dilation and reduced ejection fraction were shown in hearts from 8‐month‐old α2+/G301Rmice (cardiac magnetic resonance imaging), and this was associated with reduced nocturnal blood pressure (radiotelemetry). Cardiac function and blood pressure of 3‐month‐old α2+/G301Rmice were similar to wild‐type mice. Amplified Na,K‐ATPase–dependent Src kinase/Ras/Erk1/2 (p44/42 mitogen‐activated protein kinase) signaling was observed in hearts from 8‐month‐old α2+/G301Rmice, and this was associated with mitochondrial uncoupling (respirometry), increased oxidative stress (malondialdehyde measurements), and a heart failure–associated metabolic shift (hyperpolarized magnetic resonance). Mitochondrial membrane potential (5,5´,6,6´‐tetrachloro‐1,1´,3,3´‐tetraethylbenzimidazolocarbocyanine iodide dye assay) and mitochondrial ultrastructure (transmission electron microscopy) were similar between the groups. Proteomics of heart tissue further suggested amplified Src/Ras/Erk1/2 signaling and increased oxidative stress and provided the molecular basis for systolic dysfunction in 8‐month‐old α2+/G301Rmice.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest thatATP1A2mutation leads to disturbed cardiac metabolism and reduced cardiac function mediated via Na,K‐ATPase–dependent reactive oxygen species signaling through the Src/Ras/Erk1/2 pathway.
Malignant Hypertension: Current Perspectives and Challenges
Authors: Boulestreau Romain , van den Born Bert‐Jan H. , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Gupta Ajay
Published: March 2022

Malignant hypertension is a hypertensive emergency, with rapid disease progression and poor prognosis. Although recognized as a separate entity more than a century ago, significant knowledge gaps remain about its pathogenesis and treatment. This narrative review summarizes current viewpoints, research gaps, and challenges with a view to pooling future efforts at improving treatment and prognosis.
A “Harsh” Culture, Alcoholism, Climate, and Social Hardship Explain National Differences in Suicide Rates
Authors: Minkov Michael , Kaasa Anneli , Akaliyski Plamen , Schachner Michael
Published: March 2022

Suicide is a major cause of death in Central and Northeast Europe and Northeast Asia. The literature on this geographic pattern has not reached consensus. The authors propose an analysis of the view that national culture may be a risk factor. They use measures of culture from a quasi-nationally representative 2015–2016 database, with over 50,000 respondents from 53 countries, and WHO suicide data for 2016. A correlation analysis across items reveals four cultural features of countries with high suicide rates (r with suicide rates > .40): parents are less likely to socialize children for helping, sharing money, forgiving offenses, and expressing feelings. These four items yield a single “harshness” factor (r with national suicide rates = .69). Measures of self-construals reveal that people in countries with high suicide rates are less helpful, generous, and forgiving, have less interest in others, lower personal stability, poorer mood, lower self-esteem and self-confidence, and use less deliberation before important decisions (r with suicide rates > .40). These items yield another “harsh culture” factor, strongly correlated with the previous. Harsh culture, alcoholism rates, climatic harshness, and social hardship (short life expectancy plus child and maternal mortality), explain 71 percent of the national variation in suicide.