bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MiR‐27a‐3p targets USP46 to inhibit the cell proliferation of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wen Minghua , Xu Hongyan , Peng Hong , Sheng Yanling , Yang Wenlong , Yan Jinlong
Published: May 2022

Micro‐RNAs are involved in the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) as potential therapeutic targets for HCC. In this study, we found that miR‐27a‐3p was highly expressed in HCC, which was associated with lower survival rates of HCC patients. In vivo and in vitro functional experiments confirmed that over‐expression or knock‐down miR‐27a‐3p could significantly affect the proliferation ability of HCCLM3 and Huh‐7, two HCC cell lines. Ubiquitin‐specific protease 46 (USP46) was confirmed as the key target gene of miR‐27a‐3p in HCC via RNA‐seq, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and luciferase report. When knocking down USP46, the proliferation activity of HCC cells was significantly enhanced, while it was significantly inhibited after over‐expressing USP4. Above results suggest that the abnormally over‐expressed miR‐27a‐3p in liver promotes the proliferation of cancer cells and accelerates the development of HCC by targeting inhibition the expression of USP46. Targeting miR‐27a‐3p may be an effective strategy for prevention and treatment of HCC.
Challenges and a call to action for protecting European red wood ants
Authors: Balzani Paride , Dekoninck Wouter , Feldhaar Heike , Freitag Anne , Frizzi Filippo , Frouz Jan , Masoni Alberto , Robinson Elva , Sorvari Jouni , Santini Giacomo
Published: May 2022

Red wood ants (RWAs) are a group of keystone species widespread in temperate and boreal forests of the Northern Hemisphere. Despite this, there is increasing evidence of local declines and extinctions. We reviewed the current protection status of RWAs throughout Europe and their International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) threat classification. Only some RWA species have been assessed at a global scale, and not all national red lists of the countries where RWAs are present include these species. Different assessment criteria, inventory approaches, and risk categories are used in different countries, and data deficiency is frequent. Legislative protection is even more complex, with some countries protecting RWAs implicitly together with the wildlife fauna and others explicitly protecting the whole group or particular species. This complexity often occurs within countries, for example, in Italy, where, outside of the Alps, only the introduced species are protected, whereas the native species, which are in decline, are not. Therefore, an international, coordinated framework is needed for the protection of RWAs. This first requires that the conservation target should be defined. Due to the similar morphology, complex taxonomy, and frequent hybridization, protecting the entire RWA group seems a more efficient strategy than protecting single species, although with a distinction between autochthonous and introduced species. Second, an update of the current distribution of RWA species is needed throughout Europe. Third, a protection law cannot be effective without the collaboration of forest managers, whose activity influences RWA habitat. Finally, RWA mounds offer a peculiar microhabitat, hosting a multitude of taxa, some of which are obligate myrmecophilous species on the IUCN Red List. Therefore, RWAs’ role as umbrella species could facilitate their protection if they are considered not only as target species but also as providers of species‐rich microhabitats.
La situation des réfugiés syriens employés dans l'agriculture au Moyen‐Orient au début de la pandémie de COVID‐19 sous l'angle du travail et de la sécurité alimentaire
Authors: ZUNTZ Ann‐Christin , KLEMA Mackenzie , ABDULLATEEF Shaher , MAZERI Stella , ALNABOLSI Salim Faisal , ALFADEL Abdulellah , ABI‐HABIB Joy , AZAR Maria , CALIA Clara , BURKE Joseph , GRANT Liz , BODEN Lisa
Published: May 2022

Les auteurs utilisent des données ethnographiques issues de deux enquêtes auprès de réfugiés syriens employés dans l'agriculture au Moyen‐Orient (SyrianFoodFutures et From the FIELD) pour décrire les premiers effets de la pandémie sur cette population particulière. Ils montrent que les restrictions de déplacement et la perturbation des chaînes d'approvisionnement ont compromis l'activité et la sécurité alimentaire de ces migrants, en rappelant certaines données du contexte régional: l'ambiguïté juridique entourant le statut de réfugié, la dépendance de l'agriculture à la main‐d'œuvre immigrée et une insécurité alimentaire endémique. Ils concluent qu'il ne suffira pas de régulariser la situation des réfugiés au travail pour empêcher leur exploitation.
Parents' satisfaction with a Canadian pilot clinic to reduce waiting lists for the assessment and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder and intellectual disability in young children
Authors: Morin Marjorie , Rivard Mélina , Morin Diane , Mello Catherine , Coulombe Patrick
Published: May 2022

Background

A large body of evidence suggest that parents of young children with autism spectrum disorder or intellectual disability experience low levels of satisfaction with the diagnostic evaluation process. This study sought to document parents' satisfaction with the services of a pilot clinic implemented in Québec, Canada.

Method

Two‐hundred fifty‐nine (259) parents were recruited following their child's diagnosis. A mixed methods approach was used to investigate parents' satisfaction globally and with specific aspects of the assessment process.

Results

Parents expressed overall high satisfaction with the assessment process. Parental satisfaction with specific aspects of the assessment process was negatively related to paternal stress, fathers' unemployment and household income and positively related to maternal stress.

Conclusions

This pilot clinic could meet parents' needs at this crucial moment in their care and services trajectory. The factors associated with satisfaction in the present study may inform future improvements to its services.
Sex and male breeding state predict intraspecific trait variation in mouth‐brooding fishes
Authors: Abecia Janine E. , Luiz Osmar J. , Crook David A. , Banks Sam C. , Wedd Dion , King Alison J.
Published: May 2022

Sex‐specific reproductive roles contribute to sexual dimorphic morphological trait variations. In uniparental mouth‐brooding fishes, the mouth performs a reproductive function in addition to its key roles in feeding and respiration, resulting in the potential for sex‐specific functional performance trade‐offs. Trait differences related to parental care may occur when the individual matures or be restricted to periods when the parent is mouth‐brooding. This study explored sexual dimorphism and morphological trait adaptations related to feeding, breeding, respiration and locomotion performance in two paternal mouth‐brooding freshwater fishes (Glossamia aprion and Neoarius graeffei). Eight morphological traits were evaluated for sexual dimorphism (non‐brooder males vs. females) and male breeding state differences (brooders vs. non‐brooders). Male breeding state was a significant predictor of trait variation in both species. Brooders differed in buccal volume and in several feeding and locomotory traits compared to non‐brooder males. Non‐brooder males had bigger buccal volumes and relative eye diameters (G. aprion) and larger relative gape sizes (N. graeffei) compared to females, a potential response to both mouth‐brooding and feeding requirements. Although there were clear trait differences between brooder and non‐brooder males, further research is required to confirm whether individuals return to their former morphology once mouth‐brooding has ceased or if trait differences are maintained post‐brooding. This study highlights the importance of considering the potential impacts of intraspecific trait variation on the performance of critical life functions, such as feeding, respiration and locomotion across the life history.
Open‐Label assessment of the efficacy and tolerability of a skin care regimen for treating subjects with visible and physical symptoms of sensitive skin
Authors: Turner Ellen O.
Published: May 2022

Background

Sensitive skin is a common concern with 60%–70% of women and 50%–60% of men reporting skin sensitivity and redness. Facial redness is associated with a higher incidence of embarrassment, social anxiety, and diminished quality of life. While there is no cure for sensitive skin, it can be controlled.

Aims

The objective of this 12‐week, open‐label clinical trial was to assess the efficacy and tolerability of a topical facial regimen for treating subjects with facial redness and sensitive skin.

Patients/Methods

Enrolled subjects were healthy male and female individuals, 25–60 years old with Fitzpatrick skin types I–VI who were seeking treatment for moderate or severe facial redness. Subjects were provided with products which were applied each morning and evening. The investigator assessed change in subject appearance using Overall Redness and Global Improvement Scales and subjects rated changes in appearance and tolerability with self‐assessment scales.

Results

The mean Overall Redness Scale Score improved by 34% and 25% at Weeks 8 and 12, respectively. There was Mild or Moderate improvement in Global Improvement Scale scores beginning at Week 2 with over 50% achieving Marked improvement by Week 12. All subjects Agreed or Strongly Agreed that their facial redness was less noticeable, their skin appeared less inflamed, overall skin appearance improved, and skin looked and felt healthier at Week 12. The regimen was well‐tolerated.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated a treatment regimen designed to neutralize skin redness and calm inflamed skin was well‐tolerated and improved the symptoms of sensitive skin.
Beliefs about the factors that motivate prosocial sentiments among people in the privileged class of Pakistan during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Ahmed Ahsan Mehmood , Rasool Shahid , Prentice Catherine , Ahmad Muhammad Hissan
Published: May 2022

Drawing upon the theories of empathy‐altruism and planned behavior, this study investigated beliefs about the factors that motivate prosocial sentiments among people in the privileged class of Pakistan during the COVID‐19 pandemic. In‐depth interviews were conducted with 31 participants who were deemed to be members of the privileged class within the class system of Pakistan. The results revealed nine themes including social interaction, peer influence, role models, collectivism, vicarious emotions, religiosity, capability, volition, and education.
Relationships between land use, habitat quality, physicochemical water quality and fish communities in the Sironko River Catchment, a mountainous tropical stream flowing into the Lake Kyoga in Eastern Uganda
Authors: Turyahabwe Remigio , Mulinya Caroline , Shivoga William Aino
Published: May 2022

This study investigated the relationships between land use, habitat quality, physicochemical water quality and fish assemblage in the Sironko River catchment, a tropical mountain stream flowing into the Lake Kyoga asin in Eastern Uganda. The study was carried out at different land use sampling sites (natural forest, pastureland, plantation forest, mixed agriculture, banana plantation, urban and sugarcane plantation) for 6 months from November 2019 to April 2020. The habitat quality score (HQS) ranged between 49% in the urban area and 75% in the natural forest. There was a general increase in the temperature, conductivity, total dissolved solids, turbidity and nitrate concentration in the Sironko River as it flowed from upstream to downstream from the natural forest to the sugarcane plantation. Conversely, there was a reduced dissolved oxygen concentration and water transparency as the river traversed the different land uses downstream. A total of 765 fish individuals belonging to 9 fish species (Amphilius jacksonii, Amphilius uranoscopus, Barbus altianalis, Labeo victorianus, Clarias leocephalus, Clarias carsonii, Cyprinus carpio, Barbus palludinosus and Barbus jacksonii) were captured using an electrofishing gear. Fish identification was based on external morphological characteristics. Amphilius uranoscopus and Barbus altianalis were only caught in the natural forest and pastureland at a high altitude characterized by low temperature and high dissolved oxygen concentration. The fish species belonged to 3 trophic feeding groups dominated by the insectivorous fish. Pearson correlation coefficients showed a weak negative relationship (r = −0.249) between fish community and habitat quality, while fish assemblage and physicochemical water quality unveiled a weak positive relationship (r = 0.176). The coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.695) indicated 69.5% of the fish community variability was accounted for by the physicochemical water quality variables in Sironko River System. Accordingly, it was concluded that physicochemical water quality attributes are the most important factors determining the distribution of fish species with land use in the Sironko River catchment, a tropical mountain stream. The Sironko River catchment is hydraulically and biologically connected to Lake Kyoga through a series of satellite lakes and swamps. The river is spawning area for Clarias leocephalus, Clarias carsonii and Amphilius lujani fish species of the lake.
The Palestinian Refugees in Light of the 2020 Abraham Accords
Authors: Goldstein Rami
Published: May 2022

Since 1948, attempts have been made to solve the Palestinian refugee problem. All have failed. Complex international and regional constraints complicate the issue, as do internal political constraints on both Israeli and Palestinian sides. In light of the positive changes in the broader Israeli‐Arab conflict—the signing of the Abraham agreements in 2020 by the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, and the subsequent normalization agreements with Sudan and Morocco—the purpose of this article is to address this question: Is there any possibility of arriving at a lasting resolution to the Palestinian refugee problem? The main argument is that although the Abraham Accords do not directly address the Palestinian refugee problem or intend to resolve the Israeli‐Palestinian conflict, these accords will produce, in the long run, a new political vision of the Middle East and may contribute to a solution to this complex issue.
Sympatric genetic divergence between early‐ and late‐season weedy rice populations
Authors: Wang Zhi , Cai Xingxing , Jiang Xiao‐Qi , Xia Qi‐Yu , Li Lin‐Feng , Lu Bao‐Rong
Published: May 2022

Sympatric genetic divergence is the most appealing and controversial pattern in the theory of ecological speciation. Examples that support sympatric genetic divergence in plant species are extremely rare. Solid evidence of sympatric genetic divergence will provide deep insights for revealing the underlying mechanisms of ecological speciation.

We analysed the total genomic DNA sequences of 120 weedy rice (WR; Oryza sativa f. spontanea) plants, representing three WR population pairs separately from three early‐ and late‐season rice fields, in comparison with those of the co‐occurring rice cultivars and other rice materials.

We detected substantial genetic divergence within the pairs of the sympatric early‐ and late‐season WR populations, although genetic divergence was unevenly distributed across the genomes. Restricted gene flow was determined between the sympatric WR populations, resulting in their distinct genetic structures. We also detected relatively low genetic diversity that was likely to be associated with stronger selection in early‐season WR populations.

Our findings provide strong evidence for sympatric genetic divergence between the WR populations in the same fields but in different seasons. We conclude that temporal isolation plays an important role in creating genetic divergence between sympatric populations/species in plants.
Diagnosis and differential diagnosis of dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans: Utility of high‐resolution dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI
Authors: Yu Qiuyu , Zhu Yueqian , Huang Renjun , Li Yan , Song Linyi , Zhang Xiaoping , Tang Mengxiao , Gu Qinghua , Li Ping , Zhou Naihui , Li Yonggang
Published: May 2022

Background

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a kind of low‐grade malignant spindle cell neoplasm, the diagnosis, and treatment, which have markedly attracted clinicians’ attention for its repeated recurrence. High‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging (HR‐MRI) has shown unique capabilities in diagnosis of various cutaneous tumors.

Materials and methods

Data of 29 patients with clinically suspected DFSPs and undergoing dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) HR‐MRI preoperatively were prospectively collected. The HR‐MRI qualitative features were evaluated and compared. The DCE‐associated quantitative parameters and the time‐signal intensity curve (TIC) types were provided using DCE sequences.

Results

A total of 7 DFSPs, nine dermatofibromas (DF, including four cases of cellular variant [CDF]), 12 keloids, and one nodular fasciitis were enrolled. DFSP showed the largest major diameter and the deepest depth. Five DFSPs (71.4%) showed ill‐defined margins as well as infiltration of peripheral adipose. All DFSPs showed irregular shape. Most DFSPs presented hyperintensity on T2WI (71.4%) and iso‐intensity on T1WI (85.7%). Six cases (85.7%) had significant enhancement, and six cases (85.7%) had homogeneous enhancement. There were significant differences of Ktrans, Kep, Ve and iAUC values among DFSPs, DFs, and keloids, and DFSP had the highest values for these parameters. Six DFSPs (85.7%) and four CDFs (100%) showed type‐III TICs, while the other lesions showed type‐Ⅰor type‐Ⅱ TICs.

Conclusions

DCE‐HR‐MRI could show the growth characteristics of DFSPs, which was of great value for the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of DFSPs and was helpful for the determination of treatment options, thereby to improve the prognosis of patients.
The c-di-GMP Phosphodiesterase PipA (PA0285) Regulates Autoaggregation and Pf4 Bacteriophage Production in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1
Authors: Cai Yu-Ming , Yu Kai-Wei , Liu Ji-Hong , Cai Zhao , Zhou Zun-Hao , Liu Yang , Wang Tian-Fu , Yang Liang
Published: May 2022

The c-di-GMP signaling pathways in
P. aeruginosa
are highly organized and well coordinated, with different diguanylate cyclases and phosphodiesterases playing distinct roles in a complex network. Understanding the function of each enzyme and the underlying regulatory mechanisms not only is crucial for revealing how bacteria decide the transition between motile and sessile lifestyles, but also greatly facilitates the development of new antibiofilm strategies.
Genome Sequence of OXA-726-Encoding Aeromonas dhakensis Igbk (Sequence Type 1171) from an Edible Snail Traded in Nigeria
Authors: Okafor Arthur C. , Ogbo Frank C. , Cabal Rosel Adriana , Stöger Anna , Akharaiyi Fred C. , Prieto Beatriz , Allerberger Franz , Ruppitsch Werner
Published: May 2022

Aeromonas dhakensis
is the most virulent
Aeromonas
species pathogenic to both animals and humans. The degree of its risk to health seems masked by misidentifications. We present the genome sequence of
A. dhakensis
Igbk (sequence type 1171), associated with snails, harboring the OXA-726 gene in the chromosome.
Rapid Detection of Clarithromycin and Amikacin Resistance in Mycobacterium abscessus Complex by High-Resolution Melting Curve Analysis
Authors: Li Haoran , Mulati Gulibike , Shang Yuanyuan , Yao Cong , Wang Yufeng , Ren Weicong , Xue Zhongtan , Li Shanshan , Pang Yu
Published: May 2022

Mycobacterium abscessus
complex (MABC) has attracted increasing attention due to the numerous cases of infection. This pathogen is notorious for its intrinsic drug resistance, which complicates clinical management of patients with MABC infections.
A tRNA-Acetylating Toxin and Detoxifying Enzyme in Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Tomasi Francesca G. , Hall Alexander M. J. , Schweber Jessica T. P. , Dulberger Charles L. , McGowen Kerry , Liu Qingyun , Fortune Sarah M. , Helaine Sophie , Rubin Eric J.
Published: May 2022

The global rise in antibiotic-resistant tuberculosis has prompted an urgent search for new drugs. Toxin-antitoxin (TA) systems allow bacteria to adapt rapidly to environmental changes, and
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
encodes more TA systems than any known pathogen.
An Autobioluminescent Method for Evaluating
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Growth of Rhodococcus equi
Authors: Suzuki Yasunori , Sakaizawa Naho , Takai Shinji , Kubota Hiroaki , Hasegawa Noeru , Sasaki Yukako , Kakuda Tsutomu
Published: May 2022

We established an autologous bioluminescent strain of
R. equi
and a method to evaluate its proliferation
in vitro
and
in vivo
quantitatively. This method overcomes the weakness of the fluorescence detection system that only measures the site of excitation light irradiation.
Role of ado-trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) in HER2 positive salivary gland tumour with brain metastasis
Authors: Dhamne Nilesh , Koyyala Venkata Pradeep Babu , Chougule Snehal , Pawar Suraj
Published: May 2022

Malignant neoplasms of salivary gland neoplasms are rare and often involve the parotid gland. The primary treatment of these malignancies is surgery with or without adjuvant therapy. Chemotherapy or systemic therapy is indicated in recurrent or metastatic disease where surgery or radiotherapy is not possible. Salivary gland carcinomas, which are human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) positive, show an aggressive behaviour with a poor prognosis. Targeting the HER2 pathway with drugs designed to block this pathway is an interesting novel therapy to treat salivary gland carcinomas. We report a case of a patient with HER 2-overexpressing parotid gland adenocarcinoma with brain metastasis, who was managed with ado-trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1): a monoclonal antibody-cytotoxic drug conjugate that combines trastuzumab with the microtubule inhibitor, emtansine. The patient showed excellent response to the therapy. This case highlights the role of systemic chemotherapy with T-DM1 in HER2 positive salivary gland tumours that could be considered a part of the treatment regimen.
Returning to the emergency department: a retrospective analysis of mental health re-presentations among young people in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Cullen Patricia , Leong Robert Neil , Liu Bette , Walker Natasha , Steinbeck Katharine , Ivers Rebecca , Dinh Michael
Published: May 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to describe mental health emergency department (ED) presentations among young people aged 8–26 years in New South Wales, Australia, and to identify key characteristics associated with higher risk of ED mental health re-presentation.

Design, setting and participants

Retrospective analysis of linked ED data records for mental health presentations between 1 January 2015 and 30 June 2018.

Main outcome measures

The main outcome was the total number of mental health ED re-presentations within 1 year, following initial presentation. Count regression models were fitted to estimate factors associated with higher likelihood of re-presentations.

Results

Forty thousand two hundred and ninety patients were included in the analyses, and 9713 (~25%) re-presented during the following year; 1831 (20%) presented at least three times. On average, patients re-presented 0.61 times per 365 person-days, with average time until first re-presentation of ~92 days but greatest risk of re-presentation within first 30–60 days. Young people with self-harm or suicidal diagnoses at initial presentation were more likely to re-present. Re-presentations were highest among young people <15 years (IRR 1.18 vs ≥20 years old), female (IRR=1.13 vs male), young people residing outside of major cities (IRR 1.08 vs major cities) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people (IRR 1.27 vs non-Indigenous).

Conclusions

ED mental health re-presentation is high among young people. We demonstrate factors associated with re-presentation that EDs could target for timely, high-quality care that is youth friendly and culturally safe, with appropriate referral pathways into community-based primary and mental healthcare services.
Long-term outcomes and prognostic factors in kidney transplant recipients in Jakarta, Indonesia: a cohort study
Authors: Marbun Maruhum Bonar H , Susalit Endang , Susilowati Utami , Andina Tantika
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To determine the long-term survival rates and prognostic factors in kidney transplant (KT) recipients in Jakarta, Indonesia.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

A KT centre in Jakarta.

Participants

We enrolled 754 consecutive adult recipients who underwent KT between 2010 and 2020.

Main outcome measures

Rates of 10-year patient, all-cause and death-censored graft survival and their prognostic factors in KT recipients.

Results

The 10-year patient survival, all-cause survival and death-censored graft survival rates of KT recipients were 74%, 68% and 81%, respectively. The prognostic factors for poor patient survival were a pretransplant dialysis duration>24 months (HR 1.64, 95% CI, 1.08 to 2.49; p=0.02), cardiovascular disease (HR 1.59, 95% CI, 1.11 to 2.31; p=0.01), delayed graft function (DGF) (HR 4.94, 95% CI, 2.76 to 8.82; p<0.001), post-transplant infection (HR 2.63, 95% CI, 1.56 to 4.43; p<0.001) and acute rejection (HR 2.49, 95% CI, 1.20 to 5.15; p=0.01). All-cause graft survival was prognosticated by a pretransplant dialysis duration>24 months (HR 1.74, 95% CI, 1.15 to 2.47; p=0.007), cardiovascular disease (HR 1.65, 95% CI, 1.18 to 2.33; p=0.004), DGF (HR 5.39, 95% CI, 3.13 to 9.28; p<0.001), post-transplant infection (HR 2.46, 95% CI, 1.05 to 4.02; p<0.001) and acute rejection (HR 4.18, 95% CI, 2.23 to 7.84; p<0.001). Factors associated with poor death-censored graft survival were a pretransplant dialysis duration >24 months (HR 2.19, 95% CI, 1.32 to 3.63; p=0.002), cardiovascular disease (HR 1.65, 95% CI, 1.02 to 2.68; p=0.04) and acute rejection (HR 5.52, 95% CI, 2.80 to 10.83; p<0.001).

Conclusions

The survival rates of KT recipients are prognosticated by pretransplant dialysis duration, cardiovascular disease, DGF, post-transplant infection and acute rejection. Stricter eligibility criteria for recipients, more sensitive cross-match testing methods and better infection management strategies may be beneficial for improving the survival rates.
Right ventricular function across the spectrum of health and disease
Authors: Edward Justin , Banchs Jose , Parker Hugh , Cornwell William
Published: May 2022

Knowledge of right ventricular (RV) structure and function has historically lagged behind that of the left ventricle (LV). However, advancements in invasive and non-invasive evaluations, combined with epidemiological analyses, have advanced the current understanding of RV (patho)physiology across the spectrum of health and disease, and reinforce the centrality of the RV in contributing to clinical outcomes. In the healthy heart, ventricular-arterial coupling is preserved during rest and in response to increased myocardial demand (eg, exercise) due to substantial RV contractile reserve. However, prolonged exposure to increased myocardial demand, such as endurance exercise, may precipitate RV dysfunction, suggesting that unlike the LV, the RV is unable to sustain high levels of contractility for extended periods of time. Emerging data increasingly indicate that both LV and RV function contribute to clinical heart failure. Reductions in quality-of-life, functional capacity and overall clinical outcomes are worsened among patients with heart failure when there is evidence of RV dysfunction. In addition, the RV is adversely impacted by pulmonary vascular disease, and among affected patients, overall RV function differs based on mechanisms of the underlying pulmonary hypertension, which may result from variations in sarcomere function within RV cardiomyocytes.
Patient characteristics, short-term and long-term outcomes after incident heart failure admissions in a regional Australian setting
Authors: Al-Omary Mohammed S , Majeed Tazeen , Al-Khalil Hafssa , Sugito Stuart , Clapham Mathew , Ngo Doan T M , Attia John R , Boyle Andrew J , Sverdlov Aaron L
Published: May 2022

Aims

This study aims to (1) define the characteristics of patients with a first admission for heart failure (HF), stratified by type (reduced (HFrEF) vs preserved (HFpEF) ejection fraction) in a regional Australian setting; (2) compare the outcomes in terms of mortality and rehospitalisation and (3) assess adherence to the treatment guidelines.

Methods

We identified all index hospitalisations with HF to John Hunter Hospital and Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital in the Hunter New England Local Health District over a 12 months. We used the recent Australian HF guidelines to classify HFrEF and HFpEF and assess adherence to guideline-directed therapy. The primary outcome of the study was to compare short-term (1 year) and long-term all-cause mortality and the composite of all-cause hospitalisation or all-cause mortality of patients with HFrEF and HFpEF.

Results

There were 664 patients who had an index HF admission to John Hunter and Tamworth hospitals in 2014. The median age was 80 years, 47% were female and 22 (3%) were Aboriginal. In terms of HF type, 29% had HFrEF, 37% had HFpEF, while the remainder (34%) did not have an echocardiogram within 1 year of admission and could not be classified. The median follow-up was 3.3 years. HFrEF patients were predominantly male (64%) and in 48% the aetiology was ischaemic heart disease. The 1-year all-cause mortality was 23% in HFpEF subgroup and 29% in HFrEF subgroup (p=0.15). Five-year mortality was 61% in HFpEF and HFrEF patients. Of the HFrEF patients, only 61% were on renin-angiotensin-aldosterone blockers, 74% were on β-blockers and 39% were on aldosterone antagonist.

Conclusion

HF patients are elderly and about evenly split between HFrEF and HFpEF. In this regional cohort, both HF types are associated with similar 1-year and 5-year mortality following incident HF hospitalisation. Echocardiography and guideline-directed therapies were underused.
Hepatocyte growth factor is associated with greater risk of extracoronary calcification: results from the multiethnic study of atherosclerosis
Authors: Ogunmoroti Oluseye , Osibogun Olatokunbo , Ferraro Richard A , Ndunda Paul M , Larson Nicholas B , Decker Paul A , Bielinski Suzette J , Blumenthal Roger S , Budoff Matthew J , Michos Erin D
Published: May 2022

Background

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a biomarker with potential for use in the diagnosis, treatment and prognostication of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Elevated HGF is associated with calcification in the coronary arteries. However, knowledge is limited on the role HGF may play in extracoronary calcification (ECC). This study examined whether HGF is associated with ECC in the aortic valve (AVC), mitral annulus (MAC), ascending thoracic aorta and descending thoracic aortic (DTAC).

Methods

At baseline, adults aged 45–84 years, free of CVD, in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis had HGF and ECC measured by ELISA and cardiac CT scan, respectively. ECC measurements were repeated after an average of 2.4 years of follow-up. Prevalent ECC was defined as Agatston score >0 at baseline. Incident ECC was defined as Agatston score >0 at follow-up among participants with Agatston score=0 at baseline. We used Poisson and linear mixed-effects regression models to estimate the association between HGF and ECC, adjusted for sociodemographic and CVD risk factors.

Results

Of 6648 participants, 53% were women. Mean (SD) age was 62 (10) years. Median (IQR) of HGF was 905 (757-1087) pg/mL. After adjustment for CVD risk factors, the highest HGF levels (tertile 3) were associated with greater prevalence and extent of AVC, MAC and DTAC at baseline compared with the lowest tertile (tertile 1). Additionally, the risk of incident AVC and MAC increased by 62% and 45%, respectively, in demographic-adjusted models. However, the associations were not statistically significant in fully adjusted models. The highest HGF levels were also associated with 10% and 13% increase in MAC and DTAC progression, respectively, even after adjustment for CVD risk factors.

Conclusion

Higher HGF levels were significantly associated with a greater risk of calcification at some extracoronary sites, suggesting an alternate biological pathway that could be targeted to reduce CVD risk.
Predicting outcomes in patients with aortic stenosis using machine learning: the Aortic Stenosis Risk (ASteRisk) score
Authors: Namasivayam Mayooran , Myers Paul D , Guttag John V , Capoulade Romain , Pibarot Philippe , Picard Michael H , Hung Judy , Stultz Collin M
Published: May 2022

Objective

To use echocardiographic and clinical features to develop an explainable clinical risk prediction model in patients with aortic stenosis (AS), including those with low-gradient AS (LGAS), using machine learning (ML).

Methods

In 1130 patients with moderate or severe AS, we used bootstrap lasso regression (BLR), an ML method, to identify echocardiographic and clinical features important for predicting the combined outcome of all-cause mortality or aortic valve replacement (AVR) within 5 years after the initial echocardiogram. A separate hold out set, from a different centre (n=540), was used to test the generality of the model. We also evaluated model performance with respect to each outcome separately and in different subgroups, including patients with LGAS.

Results

Out of 69 available variables, 26 features were identified as predictive by BLR and expert knowledge was used to further reduce this set to 9 easily available and input features without loss of efficacy. A ridge logistic regression model constructed using these features had an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.74 for the combined outcome of mortality/AVR. The model reliably identified patients at high risk of death in years 2–5 (HRs ≥2.0, upper vs other quartiles, for years 2–5, p<0.05, p=not significant in year 1) and was also predictive in the cohort with LGAS (n=383, HRs≥3.3, p<0.05). The model performed similarly well in the independent hold out set (AUC 0.78, HR ≥2.5 in years 1–5, p<0.05).

Conclusion

In two separate longitudinal databases, ML identified prognostic features and produced an algorithm that predicts outcome for up to 5 years of follow-up in patients with AS, including patients with LGAS. Our algorithm, the Aortic Stenosis Risk (ASteRisk) score, is available online for public use.
Effects of bubble collapse on a solid surface: Numerical investigation
Authors: Liu Dong , Yang Wei , Liu Zhuqing , Li Sien
Published: May 2022

The shock waves and micro-jets generated by the bubble collapse will cause cavitation erosion on the solid surface. In this paper, a volume of fluid (VOF) method is used to simulate the bubble collapse process under different conditions. The protective effects of epoxy resin material with low hardness and toughness and tungsten carbide material with high stiffness and not easy to cause deformation affected by the pressure jump generated during the bubble collapse are studied. When the pressure jump caused by the bubble collapse impacts the surface of the two coating materials, the equivalent stress generated on the surface is in good agreement with the pressure distribution. The deformation and deformation velocity of tungsten carbide coating is smaller than that of epoxy resin coating. Tungsten carbide coating can effectively resist the impact pressure and prevent the formation of large stress in the substrate. Overall, tungsten carbide shows better protective performance on the substrate.
IDENTITY AND STRATEGY AS A DUALITY: THE CASES OF IBM AND CORNING IN THE COMMERCIALISATION OF FIBER OPTIC TECHNOLOGY
Authors: TEGARDEN LINDA , SARASON YOLANDA , KRUPAR ELLEN
Published: May 2022

There is a growing understanding of how incumbent firms successfully commercialise nascent technology. However, there is less understanding of why firms follow their disparate strategic trajectories. We draw upon insights in the organisational identity literature to investigate why IBM and Corning commercialised the fiber optic technology differently, given they were both technology-driven diversified corporations and initiated high investments in fiber optics when it was beginning to commercially emerge in communications. Our qualitative study investigates how and why that IBM’s customer-focused identity and Corning’s science-focused identity explain why they entered the fiber optic market along such distinct trajectories. We explore the relationship between identity and strategy as a duality, in that they cannot be understood as separate and distinct from each other but are as two sides of the same coin. We offer that understanding this relationship yields insights into why and how firms can follow different trajectories in the successful commercialising of nascent technology.
Defense against Feeding by Spring Aphid Parasitism in the Upper Leaf Parts of Host Plants
Authors: Murakami Yuuka , Kawai Hisashi , Shindo Akane , Hasegawa Eisuke
Published: May 2022

In a symbiosis, each participant gains more fitness benefits than is paid in maintenance costs for the symbiosis. The mugwort aphid, Macrosiphoniella yomogicola, is ant-associated, and the host mugwort Artemisia montana is a genet-producing plant that has clonal aboveground shoots. M. yomogicola infests most A. montana shoots from spring to midsummer, and attending ants also repel leaf-eaters of the host plant. However, most aphid colonies become extinct after budding of A. montana inflorescence after early August. A few surviving aphid colonies (1∼3 per genet) produce sexuparae in mid-October. The shoots on which the sexuparae emerged lost most of their fitness because the aphids strongly suppress budding and growth of inflorescence. However, as the shoots are genetic clones of each other, the appearance of stem mothers in the next spring may result in early spreading of the aphids and attending ants to clonal shoots, which would protect the host from leaf-eaters. Here, we show that all shoots on a genet with stem mothers are occupied by aphids and ants much faster than those on a genet without stem mothers. The attending ants repel leaf-eaters to unimportant leaves for the host. Our results suggest that, as the shoots of a genet are all clones, sustaining the aphids on a few shoots may be beneficial to a genet as a whole through kin selection.
Revolutionizing E-Commerce Using Blockchain Technology and Implementing Smart Contract
Authors: Khan Mohammad Monirujjaman , RoJa Nesat Tasneem , Almalki Faris A. , Aljohani Maha
Published: May 2022

The days of storing data manually are behind us. We are opting for the online form of data storage and transfer. The new era of data digitization comes with its own perks and detriments. Cybersecurity is still a crucial concern today. As more data transfer occurs through an online medium, the risks of a breach and cyberattacks are inevitable. The whole foundation of e-commerce is based on the online transfer of goods and transactions without the need to travel. Transferring transactional data and transactions in e-commerce are prone to cyber threats. Our research’s major objective is to develop a system that protects against such mishaps, especially during the transfer of transactional data, and also implement an automated system that ensures these transactions occur without any errors. To implement this, we are taking advantage of new emerging technologies called blockchain and smart contract. Blockchain allows a decentralized, immutable digital ledger to safely store and transfer data across the network. Blockchain technology is used in e-commerce to transfer transactions in a safe, secure, and faster way. Blockchain enables a peer-to-peer transaction system and data encryption that enables the safe transfer of transactional data. Blockchain is used to transfer transactional data. A smart contract is a special program that enables, verifies, and enforces the terms of a contract digitally. It provides transactional security as the contact is in place. The blockchain, coupled with smart contracts, will revolutionize the future of e-commerce. We have combined blockchain technology to ensure data security and user privacy with smart contracts to ensure that the protocol for the transaction is maintained. The results are presented by building and implementing the proposed system that provides the solution for transactional data privacy.
Investigating the Effect of the Rock‐Socketed Depth of the Hinged Cable‐Anchored Pile on the Earthquake Response Characteristics of Supporting Structures
Authors: Fa-you A. , Hei Ming-chang , Yan Shi-qua , Zhang Peng
Published: May 2022

In order to meet the design requirements of the anti‐slide pile, the form of the anchor‐pull pile is often adopted in engineering applications. In the present study, the seismic response characteristics of hinged cable‐anchored piles with different rock‐socketed depths are analyzed using a large‐scale seismic model test platform and numerical simulations. The obtained results show that the rock‐socketed depth significantly affects the seismic response of the pile‐anchor system. It is found that, as the rock‐socketed depth increases under the same seismic conditions, the peak acceleration at the top of the anchored pile, the peak dynamic Earth pressure behind the pile, the axial force of the anchor rod, and the bending moment of the pile body decrease and the seismic stability of the anti‐slide pile improves. It is concluded that, in the seismic design of anchor‐pulled piles, increasing the rock‐socketed depth of the anchor is an appropriate scheme to improve the seismic performance of anchor‐pulled piles. The research results have a certain significance for improving the understanding of the seismic response law of hinged cable‐anchored piles and improving the seismic design.
Development of Novel Gluten-Free Sausage Based on Chickpea, Corn Flour, and HPMC
Authors: Yazdanpanah Sedigheh , Ansarifard Samaneh , Hasani Mahsa
Published: May 2022

The present work was carried out to study the effectiveness of substitution of wheat flour with different levels of chickpea flour, corn flour, and hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) for the production of gluten-free sausages. The prepared sausages were subjected to physicochemical, color, texture, thermal, and sensory analyses 24 h after production. Proximate chemical composition indicated that the protein content was raised by the addition of chickpea flour. The result of thermal analysis indicated that the addition of chickpea flour increased To, Tp, Tf, and

Δ
H

and decreased

∆

W

1

. Textural properties revealed that hardness was higher in samples containing chickpea flour and adhesiveness, chewiness, and gumminess were lower in samples with chickpea flour and corn flour. Sensorial properties showed that there were no significant differences between samples except the sample containing 6% chickpea flour. Based on the obtained results, it seems that the sample containing 4% corn flour, 6% chickpea flour, and 0.3% HPMC had the best formulation.
Talking about the Innovative Application of Big Data in Enterprise Human Resources Performance Management
Authors: Xu Dazhi , Tu Tianyi , Xiao Xiaoyong
Published: May 2022

With the advent of the wave of big data, data has become an important information asset. With data information, we have the ability to gain insight into market conditions and strengthen management. The use of big data technology to conduct statistics, analysis, and mining of massive information can make information assets play a very high value in corporate strategy formulation and accurate decision-making. However, the traditional performance management concepts and management methods have not adapted to the development requirements of the times, and there are various drawbacks. This paper analyzes the impact of big data on enterprise performance management. Combining the key aspects of the company’s performance in the old data era, a new method of company performance management and the subsequent innovative development path are proposed. Recognition frameworks, employee similarity, FCM, and other assessment formulas are emphasized. From the employee’s work attitude, workability and appearance, and daily performance, combined with the calculation of employee benefits, the evaluation is more clear; after the implementation of the material reward experiment, the attendance rate increased by 16.3%. At the same time, the workload was gradually refined, from quantitative to qualitative, and sales increased by 28.6%, maximizing the advantages of human resources and promoting the sustainable development of the enterprise.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Pollution Characteristics andEcological Risk in Soils around a Rare Earth Mine in Gannan
Authors: Wang Yi , Sun Wei , Zhao Yuli , He Peiyong , Wang Lidong , Nguyen L. T. T.
Published: May 2022

In order to explore the pollution of heavy metals in the soils around the mined rare-earth mines, this paper used the geoaccumulation index method, the Nemerow pollution index method, and the potential ecological risk index method during the high water period and the withered water period, respectively, to analyze and assess the pollution characteristics and ecological risks of Mn, Cu, Cr, As, Cd, Ni, Pb, and Zn in the soils of the study area. The results showed that all the eight heavy metals in thesoil of the study area have accumulated to varying degrees, and the accumulation indices were Pb > Mn > Zn > Cd > Cu > Ni > Cr > As in descending order, with Pb and Mn accumulating most seriously. According to the results of the Nemerow pollution index, more than 25% of the sampling points in the soil were lightly contaminated, the Nemerow index of heavy metal Pb was greater than 2, which was moderately contaminated, and Cd was lightly contaminated in the withered water period. The potential ecological risk index showed that the heavy metal Cd was moderately ecologically hazardous, while the other seven heavy metals were all mildly ecologically hazardous. The heavy metals Pb and Mn in the soils of the study area were more seriously polluted, and there was also a certain degree of heavy metal Cd pollution during the withered water period, and the more seriously polluted areas were mainly located around the open pit of the rare-earth mines. Based on Java, the software platform of soil heavy metal pollution characteristics and ecological risk assessment around rare-earth mines is realized. The overall structure of the platform is designed, the background development framework is planned based on SSM, and the database is designed with SQL Server.