bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integral assessment of stress-defomated condition of metal structures of machines under the action of static and dynamic loads
Authors:   Kiev National University of Construction and Architecture, Nazarenko Ivan , Kuzminets Mykola ,   National Transport University, Dedov Oleg ,   Kiev National University of Construction and Architecture, Zalіsko Igor ,   Production and Commercial Firm Drohobych Truck Crane Plant
Published: October 2021

The article considers a system that combines the influence of static on dynamic loads on the example of the support-rotary circuit of a truck construction crane. The position of the system and its elements with the highest loads is revealed, the method of creating steel structures is investigated, each element, depending on the average load, experiences a stress-strain state. The basic laws of the theory of elasticity and plasticity were used to build a calculated mathematical model of the loaded support-rotary circuit. Equations of motion were compiled taking into account the behavior of structural elements and the machine as a whole under the simultaneous action of different loads. The calculation scheme was taken in the form of a structure consisting of rods rigidly connected to each other in nodes. As a method of calculation the method of finite elements with definition of displacements (deformations), efforts (stresses) in nodes of a grid of constructive elements of a design of a basic-rotary contour is applied. The stress distribution in each structural element depending on the type of load was obtained. This distribution allowed to choose rational parameters of a design in each its section. The proposed approach allowed to create a solid structure that provides reliability and economy of material. Thus, the results obtained allowed to fully analyze and decide on the simultaneous provision of strength, rigidity and minimum material consumption of the structure.
ARRANGEMENT OF AUTHORITIES AND MECHANISM FOR CANCELLATION OF VILLAGE REGULATIONS IN THE FRAMEWORK OF VILLAGE AUTONOMY IN INDONESIA
Authors: Asnawi Eddy , Tambusai Yasrif Yakub , Utama Andrew Shandy
Published: October 2021

Village regulations are statutory regulations established by the village headman after being discussed and agreed with the Village Consultative Body. This study aims to explain the arrangement of authority and the mechanism for canceling village regulations within the framework of village autonomy in Indonesia. The method used in this research is normative legal research, using a statutory approach. Law Number 6 of 2014 concerning Villages regulates the formation of village regulations, but does not regulate the cancellation of village regulations. The cancellation of village regulations is instead regulated in Article 87 of Government Regulation Number 43 of 2014 concerning Implementing Regulations of Law Number 6 of 2014 concerning Villages, which states that village regulations and village head regulations are contrary to the public interest and/or the provisions of laws and regulations that higher is canceled by the regent/mayor. This provision is contrary to Article 9 paragraph (2) of Law Number 12 of 2011 concerning the Establishment of Legislation and is not in accordance with the village autonomy framework as regulated in Law Number 6 of 2014 concerning Villages. The mechanism for canceling village regulations should be carried out through an expanded Village Consultative Body meeting because it is considered to have a sense of justice and the spirit of democracy and is a form of implementation of village autonomy.
BULLET SHOOTING SPORTS EVENTS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Loparev Aleksandr V.
Published: October 2021

The article examines the impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus infection on world sports in general and in particular on bullet shooting. The theoretical basis of the work consists of materials taken from orders, recommendations and letters of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. The methodological basis is the methods of observation, analysis and synthesis. The study provides an assessment of the readiness of the sports community to conduct active training and competitive activities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
SAFETY ISSUES WHEN CONDUCTING EXERCISES ON PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND ORGANIZATION OF SPORTS, MASS AND HEALTHCARE ACTIVITIES
Authors: Muchin Pavel V. , Muchin Maxim P.
Published: October 2021

The paper analyzes the documents defining the safety of physical culture classes and the organization of sports events in educational organizations. The possibilities of increasing the level of safety of the educational process and reducing traumatism of students through the optimization of the work of the labor protection service have been identified.
CONSULTING CENTER "MANAGE-PRO". ACADEMY OF TREND MANAGEMENT
Authors: Minaeva Elena V. , Fedorova Lilia A.
Published: October 2021

The project of creation a consulting center on the basis of "Secondary General Education School No82" for school administrators "Manage-PRO" is an innovative product of the school's management team in the concept of the National Technology Initiative. The project received a high peer review from HSE experts and is the winner in the Breakthrough nomination of the international competition for innovators in education “KIVO-2020”. The project is based on trends in the development of education in the NTI ideology, on the resources provided by National Projects, on international standards and best practices for the design of engineering and technological education, on the multi-level education infrastructure of the NTI ecosystem and on in-depth analysis of stakeholders. "Manage-PRО" is a consulting support for pivots of leadership management teams of schools: from the choice of small adjustments to a radical change in the concept due to the gradual formation of a competence portrait of members of management teams of schools and the creation of a marketplace of best practices.
THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SHORT-TRACK CLASSES IN THE PREPARATION OF STUDENTS AT THE UNIVERSITY
Authors: Krivih Alexander N. , Kuzub Karina V.
Published: October 2021

The article examines the effectiveness of short track classes in the preparation of students at the university. The article briefly examines the history of the development of this sport and determines its relevance. The article reveals the concept of speed-strength qualities that favorably affect the physical and mental development of students, as well as the influence of exercises for speed skating on the body systems of students and athletes. The results of the survey of students are presented. Based on these results, conclusions are drawn about the attitude of students to this sport, as well as conclusions about the organization of physical education classes in general.
PENGARUH METODE PENGERINGAN YANG BERBEDA TERHADAP KOMPOSISI KIMIA, VITAMIN C DAN AKTIVITAS ANTIOKSIDAN ANGGUR LAUT Caulerpa racemosa
Authors: Indayani Mimin Kaidah , Asnani Asnani , Suwarjoyowirayatno Suwarjoyowirayatno
Published: October 2021

ABSTRACT                Caulerpa racemosa is one of the potential biodiversity of Indonesian waters that has functional compounds including antioxidants and vitamin C. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of the drying method on chemical composition, phytochemical content and antioxidant activity and vitamin C. racemosa which was dried by sun-drying method and drying at 40°C and 50°C. The results obtained showed that the lowest water content was found in C1 treatment,15,85%, the lowest fat content of 0,39% in C3 treatment, the lowest ash content in C1 treatment was 38,27%, and the highest carbohydrate was in C1 treatment is 19,66%. Phytochemical testing showed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, steroids, and saponins and there is no hydroquinone compound, while the highest antioxidant and vitamin C activity were found in C2, 652,41 ppm and 13,1 mg / g, respectively.KeyWords: Caulerpa racemosa, drying, phytochemicals, vitamin C, antioxidants ABSTRAKCaulerpa  racemosa merupakan salah satu potensi keanekaragaman hayati perairan Indonesia  yang memiliki senyawa fungsional diantaranya antioksidan dan vitamin C. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh metode pengeringan terhadap komposisi kimia, kandungan fitokimia dan aktivitas antioksidan serta vitamin C. racemosa yang dikeringkan dengan metode pengeringan sinar matahari serta pengeringan pada suhu 40°C dan suhu 50°C. Hasil yang diperoleh menunjukan bahwa nilai kadar air terendah terdapat pada perlakuan C1 yaitu 15,85%, kadar lemak terendah yaitu 0,39% pada perlakuan C3, kadar abu yang terendah ada pada perlakuan C1 yaitu 38,27%, dan karbohidrat tertinggi terdapat pada perlakuan C1 yaitu sebesar 19,66%. Pengujian fitokimia menunjukan adanya kandungan alkaloid, flavonoid, steroid dan saponin dan tidak terdapat senyawa hidroquinon, sementara pada pengujian aktivitas antioksidan dan vitamin C tertinggi terdapat pada C2 masing-masing  652,41 ppm dan 13,1 mg/g.Kata Kunci: Caulerpa  racemosa, pengeringan, fitokimia, vitamin C, antioksidan
ACTITUD SOBRE LA EUTANASIA EN DIFERENTES SECTORES DE LA SOCIEDAD DE LA CIUDAD DE GUARANDA. DESDE SEPTIEMBRE 2017 A MARZO 2018.
Authors:   Universidad Estatal de Bolívar, Paredes Gonzalo , Chasi Mishell , Quille Johana , Huilca Giseña , Barragán Federico , Chimbo Jorge , Masache Mishel
Published: October 2021

El derecho a una vida digna garantiza la Constitución ecuatoriana, pero que tan digna es la vida de quienes soportan enfermedades terminales y que no pueden acceder a una ley que les permita decidir su existencia. La eutanasia en el Ecuador es un tema tabú y su marco legal no lo contempla, esto no impide que se analice lo que sucede en otras latitudes, Conocer la actitud hacia la eutanasia en personal de salud, jurisprudencia, educación y religioso que permita garantizar la dignidad, mediante la comprensión de su aplicación en casos especiales. Es importante el criterio de los sectores estudiados al ser multiocupacional , pues describe la sensibilidad de cada grupo hacia la eutanasia . Se aplicó escala de Likert, a una muestra no aleatoria de 129 personas, , entre los resultados más destacados con la utilización del estadístico SPSS, determina un chi cuadrado con sig 0.001 resultado que rechaza la Ho, al compararse con el p valor de 0,05% la diferencia es muy significativa entre los grupos. La Hi “El personal de salud tiene una sensibilidad diferente a las demás ocupaciones ante la eutanasia”. Este resultado es importante pues muestra mayor sensibilidad en el personal que convive y trata el dolor, Igualmente 0,009 en el sig correspondiente al chi cuadrado que relaciona el nivel de estudio avanzado, con la actitud hacia la eutanasia, de igual modo rechaza la Ho.
ANÁLISIS DE LA SEGURIDAD ALIMENTARIA EN COMUNIDADES RURALES DE LA PROVINCIA CHIMBORAZO
Authors:   Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo, Herrera Cisneros Silvia Patricia , Castillo Ruíz Lorena Elizabeth ,   Escuela Superior Politécnica de Chimborazo
Published: October 2021

La seguridad alimentaria constituye uno de los principales retos a lograr en la sociedad moderna. Múltiples han sido los esfuerzos gubernamentales para lograr ese objetivo, sin embargo, existen varios factores que conspiran en lograr tan ansiada meta. El objetivo de esta investigación fue analizar el comportamiento de la seguridad alimentaria en tres comunidades rurales de la provincia de Chimborazo. Para esto se realizó una investigación básica, descriptiva y explicativa que incluyó a 93 familias pertenecientes a las comunidades rurales El Molino, Nitiluisa y San Antonio de Capilla, todas pertenecientes a la provincia de Chimborazo. Se aplicó la Escala Latinoamericana y Caribeña de Seguridad Alimentaria para determinar la presencia y grado de inseguridad alimentaria. Los principales resultados incluyen un bajo porciento de familiar, formadas por adultos solamente o que incluyen menores de 18 años con seguridad alimentaria. Existió un predominio de familias con seguridad alimentaria moderada, severa y con diagnóstico de hambre en las tres comunidades estudiadas. Se evidenció que existe producción de alimentos. Se concluye que a pesar de los esfuerzos realizados, existe un elevado por ciento de familias que presentan distintos niveles de inseguridad alimentaria. A pesar de existir una producción de alimentos inadecuados, estos, en vez de formar parte de la canasta alimentaria, son vendidos para mejorar los ingresos económicos que se destinan a otras necesidades o requerimientos.
Patients Unmet Needs in Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps Care: A Patient Advisory Board Statement of EUFOREA
Authors: Claeys N. , Teeling M. T. , Legrand P. , Poppe M. , Verschueren P. , De Prins L. , Cools L. , Cypers L. , Fokkens W. J. , Hopkins C. , Hellings P. W.
Published: October 2021

Background: European patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) have had only limited occasions to unite to have their voices heard, hence missing the opportunity to contribute to the improvement of CRSwNP care.

Aims: To identify unmet needs in CRSwNP from the perspective of CRSwNP patients from the Patient Advisory Board (PAB) of the European Forum for Research and Education in Allergy and Airways diseases (EUFOREA).

Methodology: Semi-structured interviews were conducted individually with 15 European patients with CRSwNP and with a disease history of more than 2 years. Patients shared their burden of the disease and frustrations related to CRSwNP care, experiences with key pillars of current treatment options, shortcomings of the current care pathways and recommendations for improvement of care. A panel of 30 members of the Patient Advisory Board reviewed the interview report and provided further input during 2 virtual meetings.

Results: CRSwNP patients indicated the need for greater awareness from society and physicians of the disease burden with impact on social function and well-being. Along with a loss of ability to smell and the continuous presence of secretions in the nose, most patients reported poor sleep quality and psychological impact as the most bothersome symptoms. Patients' frustrations relate primarily to the underestimation of the disease burden, the lack of coordination of care and the limited treatment options available to them. Treatment options with oral corticosteroids and/or sinus surgery both have positive and negative aspects, including the lack of long-lasting efficacy. Better coordination of care, more patient-centered care, greater public awareness, increases in research on the disease mechanisms and better therapeutic options would be warmly welcomed by CRSwNP patients.

Conclusions: This statement of the EUFOREA Patient Advisory Board on CRSwNP provides novel insights on the underestimation of the burden of CRSwNP and shortcomings of current care. Multiple recommendations made by the patients can underpin action plans for implementation of better care for CRSwNP among all physicians treating patients with this disabling disease.
The Environmental Impact of Changes in Cow Productivity and Its Component Traits in South Africa's Landrace Beef Breeds
Authors: Jordaan Frans J. , Neser Frederick W. C. , Maiwashe Azwihangwisi , King Zelda , Scholtz Michiel M.
Published: October 2021

Any reduction in the carbon footprint of beef production will contribute to future sustainability. This study investigates the environmental impact (carbon footprint) of the changes that occurred in cow productivity in the cowherds of four South African landrace breeds over a period of 25–30 years. Cow productivity, defined as kilogram calf weaned per large stock unit mated, increased by 18.3, 10.0, 14.2, and 10.4% in the Afrikaner, Bonsmara, Drakensberger, and Nguni, respectively. This resulted in a decrease in the carbon footprint, as defined by the enteric methane emissions factor, of between 6.6 and 12.0%. Changes in the cow productivity component traits, viz. weaning weight, cow weight, and fertility (as measured by inter-calving period) was also investigated. In all breeds, except the Nguni, the change in the environmental trends were less than that of the direct genetic or phenotypic trends. The genetic trends for direct weaning weight in the Afrikaner, Bonsmara, and Drakensberger were +6.7, +11.7, and +6.2 kg, respectively. In the case of the Bonsmara and Drakensberger breeds, the genetic trends were larger than the phenotypic trends, which may indicate that the environment cannot support the higher “genetic” weaning weights. The genetic trends for mature cow weight in Bonsmara and Drakensberger were +15.9 and +15.1 kg, respectively, whereas in the Afrikaner and Nguni it was not significantly different from zero (R2 ≤ 0.24). The trends in the phenotypic mature cow weights were −8.3, +17.5, +8.5, and −17.2 kg for in the Afrikaner, Bonsmara, Drakensberger, and Nguni, respectively. Although the observed inter-calving period of all breeds declined, there was no genetic change in inter-calving period for any of the breeds. It is proposed that selection indices are developed for cow productivity, which can be extended to a carbon footprint selection index. It is recommended that similar studies be done on all the major beef breeds in South Africa, especially those that rely on regular importation of genetic material.
Vascular Tissue Engineering: Challenges and Requirements for an Ideal Large Scale Blood Vessel
Authors: Devillard Chloé D. , Marquette Christophe A.
Published: October 2021

Since the emergence of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering more than half a century ago, one obstacle has persisted: the in vitro creation of large-scale vascular tissue (>1 cm3) to meet the clinical needs of viable tissue grafts but also for biological research applications. Considerable advancements in biofabrication have been made since Weinberg and Bell, in 1986, created the first blood vessel from collagen, endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells and fibroblasts. The synergistic combination of advances in fabrication methods, availability of cell source, biomaterials formulation and vascular tissue development, promises new strategies for the creation of autologous blood vessels, recapitulating biological functions, structural functions, but also the mechanical functions of a native blood vessel. In this review, the main technological advancements in bio-fabrication are discussed with a particular highlights on 3D bioprinting technologies. The choice of the main biomaterials and cell sources, the use of dynamic maturation systems such as bioreactors and the associated clinical trials will be detailed. The remaining challenges in this complex engineering field will finally be discussed.
Functionalized Selenium Nanoparticles Synergizes With Metformin to Treat Breast Cancer Cells Through Regulation of Selenoproteins
Authors: Yang Yu , Zhang Zehang , Chen Qi , You Yuanyuan , Li Xiaoling , Chen Tianfeng
Published: October 2021

Owing to high blood sugar level and chronic inflammation, diabetes tend to cause the overproduction of free radicals in body, which will damage tissue and cells, reduce autoimmunity, and greatly increase the incidence of tumors. Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) exhibit high antioxidant activity with anti-tumor ability. In addition, metformin is considered as a clinical drug commonly for the treatment of stage II diabetes. Therefore, in this study, different functionalized SeNPs combined with metformin were performed to detect the feasibility for cancer therapy. The combination of Tween 80 (TW80)-SeNPs and metformin was found to have a synergistic effect on MCF-7 cells. The mechanism of this synergistic effect involved in the induction of DNA damage by affecting the generation of reactive oxygen species through selenoproteins; the upregulation of DNA-damage-related proteins including p-ATM, p-ATR, and p38; the promotion of p21 expression; and the downregulation of cyclin-dependent kinases and cyclin-related proteins causing cell cycle arrest. Furthermore, the expression of AMPK was affected, which in turn to regulate the mitochondrial membrane potential to achieve the synergistic treatment effect.
N6 -Methyladenosine Negatively Regulates Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Replication
Authors: Figueroa Fabian , Vega-Gibson Alonso , Catrileo Joseline , Gaete-Argel Aracelly , Riquelme-Barrios Sebastian , Alonso-Palomares Luis Antonio , Tapia Lorena I. , Valiente-Echeverría Fernando , Soto-Rifo Ricardo , Acevedo Monica L.
Published: October 2021

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is the most abundant internal modification described in eukaryotic mRNA and several viral RNA including human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV). Here, we evaluated the impact of m6A writers, erasers and readers on HRSV genomic RNA accumulation and inclusion bodies assembly during viral replication. We observed that the METTL3/METTL14 m6A writer complex plays a negative role in HRSV protein synthesis and viral titers, while m6A erasers FTO and ALKBH5 had the opposite effect. We also observed that m6A readers YTHDF1-3 bind to the viral genomic RNA inducing a decrease in its intracellular levels and thus, inhibiting viral replication. Finally, we observed that overexpression of YTHDFs proteins caused a decrease in the size of inclusion bodies (IBs), accompanied by an increase in their number. METTL3 knockdown cells showed an opposite effect indicating that the dynamics of IBs assembly and coalescence are strongly affected by m6A readers in a mechanism dependent on m6A writers. Taken together, our results demonstrated that the m6A modification negatively affects HRSV replication, possibly through a mechanism involving the assembly of inclusion bodies, the main factories of viral genomic RNA synthesis.
miR-371b-5p-Engineered Exosomes Enhances Tumor Inhibitory Effect
Authors: Xue Qiang , Yang Yang , Yang Linlin , Yan Xiaodi , Shen Zihao , Liu Jiajia , Xue Jianhua , Zhao Wei , Liu Xianchen
Published: October 2021

Background: Exosomes are well-known natural nanovesicles, that represent one of the recently discovered modes of intercellular communication due to their ability to transmit cellular components. Exosomes have been reported to have potential as natural vectors for carrying functional small RNAs and delivering chemotherapeutic agents to diseased cells. In this study, we aimed to investigate the role of exosomes in carrying miRNA for targeting tumor cells.

Methods: We present a novel method for engineering exosomes with functional miR-317b-5b to target tumor cells. MiR-317b-5b exerts its anti-tumor function via its expression in tumors. RT-qPCR was performed to assess the levels of miR-371b-5p, FUT-4. Western blot was performed to measure the levels of CD9, CD81, and FUT-4 proteins. Confocal microscopy was used to observe the internalization of miR-317b-5b in tumor cells. CCK-8, EdU, flow cytometry, wound-healing migration and transwell assays were performed to evaluate cell viability, proliferation, migration, and invasion, respectively.

Results: Our findings illustrated that miR-317b-5b-loaded engineered exosomes were internalized by tumor cells. MiR-317b-5b was overexpressed in tumor cells treated with miR-317b-5b-loaded engineered exosomes. The internalization of miR-317b-5b in tumor cells was accompanied by changes of cell viability, proliferation, apoptosis, and migratory and invasive capability. We found that miR-317b-5b-loaded engineered exosomes were presence in tumor tissue sections and miR-317b-5b was overexpressed in tumor tissues of osteosarcoma tumor-bearing mice infected with miR-317b-5b-loaded engineered exosomes. MiR-317b-5b-loaded engineered exosomes had the anti-tumor efficiency in vivo.

Conclusion: Our findings show that miR-317b-5b-loaded engineered exosomes can be used as nanocarriers to deliver drug molecules such as miR-317b-5b both in vitro and in vivo to exert its anti-tumor functions.
Bridging Carotenoid-to-Bacteriochlorophyll Energy Transfer of Purple Bacteria LH2 With Temperature Variations: Insights From Conformational Changes
Authors: Mao Ruichao , Wang Xiaocong , Gao Jun
Published: October 2021

Photosynthesis is a key process for converting light energy into chemical energy and providing food for lives on Earth. Understanding the mechanism for the energy transfers could provide insights into regulating energy transfers in photosynthesis and designing artificial photosynthesis systems. Many efforts have been devoted to exploring the mechanism of temperature variations affecting the excitonic properties of LH2. In this study, we performed all-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and quantum mechanics calculations for LH2 complex from purple bacteria along with its membrane environment under three typical temperatures: 270, 300, and 330 K. The structural analysis from validated MD simulations showed that the higher temperature impaired interactions at N-terminus of both α and β polypeptide helices and led to the dissociation of this hetero polypeptide dimer. Rhodopin-β-D-glucosides (RG1) moved centripetally with α polypeptide helices when temperature increased and enlarged their distances with bacteriochlorophylls molecules that have the absorption peak at 850 nm (B850), which resulted in reducing the coupling strengths between RG1 and B850 molecules. The present study reported a cascading mechanism for temperature regulating the energy transfers in LH2 of purple bacteria.
Sex Differences in Characteristics and Outcomes in Elderly Heart Failure Patients With Preserved Ejection Fraction: A Post-hoc Analysis From TOPCAT
Authors: Sun Jiaxing , Tai Shi , Guo Yanan , Tang Liang , Yang Hui , Li Xuping , Xing Zhenhua , Fu Liyao , Zhou Shenghua
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Although the impact of sex on patient outcomes for heart failure (HF) with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has been reported, it is still unclear whether this impact is applicable for elderly patients with HFpEF. This study was conducted as a secondary analysis from a large randomized controlled trial—The Treatment of Preserved Cardiac Function Heart Failure with an Aldosterone Antagonist Trial (TOPCAT)—to evaluate the impact of sex differences on the baseline characteristics and outcomes of HFpEF patients who were older than 70 years.

Methods: Baseline characteristic of elderly patients were compared between men and women. Primary outcomes were cardiovascular (CV) mortality and HF-related hospitalization, whereas secondary outcomes were all-cause mortality and all-cause hospitalization. Cox regression models were used to determine the effect of sex differences on patient outcomes.

Results: A total of 1,619 patients were included in the study: 898 (55.5%) women and 721 (44.5%) men. Age was similar between women and men. Women had fewer comorbidities but worse cardiac function than men. The rate of primary outcomes was lower in women than in men (18.4 vs. 27.5%; p < 0.001), including rate of CV mortality (8.9 vs. 14.8%; p < 0.001) and HF-related hospitalization (13.4 vs. 18.2%; p = 0.008). All-cause mortality was also lower in women than in men (15.6 vs. 25.4%; p < 0.001). After adjustment for baseline characteristics, Cox regression analysis showed that female sex was a protective factor for CV mortality [hazard ratio (HR): 0.53; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.40–0.73], HF-related hospitalization (HR: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.55–0.93), and all-cause mortality (HR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.47–0.75). Although spironolactone significantly reduced the rate of all-cause mortality in women even after adjusting for baseline characteristics (HR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.48–0.96; p = 0.028), no significant multivariate association was noted between sex and treatment effects (p = 0.190).

Conclusion: Among elderly patients with HFpEF, women had worse cardiac function but better survival and lower HF-related hospitalization rate than men.

Clinical Trial Registration: NCT00094302 (TOPCAT). Registered October 15, 2004, https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT00094302.
Incident Heart Failure in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease Undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Gu Jun , Yin Zhao-fang , Xu Zuo-jun , Fan Yu-qi , Wang Chang-qian , Zhang Jun-feng
Published: October 2021

Background: The contemporary incidence of heart failure (HF) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains unclear. This prospective cohort study was designed to study the incidence and predictors of new-onset HF in CAD patients after PCI (ChiCTR1900023033).

Methods: From January 2014 to December 2018, 3,910 CAD patients without HF history undergoing PCI were prospectively enrolled. Demographics, medical history, cardiovascular risk factors, cardiac parameters, and medication data were collected at baseline. Multivariable adjusted competing-risk regression analysis was performed to examine the predictors of incident HF.

Results: After a median follow-up of 63 months, 497 patients (12.7%) reached the primary endpoint of new-onset HF, of which 179, 110, and 208 patients (36.0, 22.1, and 41.9%) were diagnosed as having HF with reduced ejection fraction (EF) (HFrEF), HF with mid-range EF (HFmrEF), and HF with preserved EF (HFpEF), respectively. Higher B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) or E/e′ level, lower estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) level, and atrial fibrillation were the independent risk factors of new-onset HF. Gender (male) and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin II receptor blocker (ACEI/ARB) prescription were the negative predictors of new-onset HF. Moreover, it was indicated that long-term ACEI/ARB therapy, instead of beta-blocker use, was linked to lower risks of development of all three HF subtypes (HFrEF, HFmrEF and HFpEF).

Conclusions: This prospective longitudinal cohort study shows that the predominant subtype of HF after PCI is HFpEF and ACEI/ARB therapy is accompanied with reduced risks of incident HF across three subtypes.
Chinese Home-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation Model Delivered by Smartphone Interaction Improves Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Coronary Heart Disease
Authors: Ma Jing , Ge Cheng , Shi Yajun , Xu Yong , Zhao Chenghui , Gao Ling , Wen Dongling , Li Tengjing , Wang Jinli , Yan Sherry , Smith Sidney C. , Chen Yundai
Published: October 2021

Purpose: We evaluated the long-term effect of a smartphone-facilitated home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) model in revascularized patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) on major adverse cardiac events (MACE), and secondary outcomes, including safety, quality of life, and physical capacity.

Methods: It was a prospective observational cohort study including a total of 335 CHD patients after successful percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) referred to the CR clinic in China between July 23, 2015 and March 1, 2018. Patients were assigned to two groups: HBCR tailored by monitoring and telecommunication via smartphone app (WeChat) (HBCR group, n = 170) or usual care (control group, n = 165), with follow-up for up to 42 months. Propensity score matching was conducted to match patients in the HBCR group with those in the control group. The patients in the HBCR group received educational materials weekly and individualized exercise prescription monthly, and the control group only received 20-min education at baseline in the CR clinic. The primary outcome was MACE, analyzed by Cox regression models. The changes in the secondary outcomes were analyzed by paired t-test among the matched cohort.

Results: One hundred thirty-five HBCR patients were matched with the same number of control patients. Compared to the control group, the HBCR group had a much lower incidence of MACE (1.5 vs. 8.9%, p = 0.002), with adjusted HR = 0.21, 95% CI 0.07–0.85, and also had reduced unscheduled readmission (9.7 vs. 23.0%, p = 0.002), improved exercise capacity [maximal METs (6.2 vs. 5.1, p = 0.002)], higher Seattle Angina Questionnaire score, and better control of risk factors.

Conclusions: The Chinese HBCR model using smartphone interaction is a safe and effective approach to decrease cardiovascular risks of patients with CHD and improve patients' wellness.

Clinical Trial Registration:http://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier: ChiCTR1800015042.
Developments of the Nationwide Earthquake Early Warning System in Japan After the 2011 Mw9.0 Tohoku-Oki Earthquake
Authors: Kodera Yuki , Hayashimoto Naoki , Tamaribuchi Koji , Noguchi Keishi , Moriwaki Ken , Takahashi Ryo , Morimoto Masahiko , Okamoto Kuninori , Hoshiba Mitsuyuki
Published: October 2021

In Japan, the nationwide earthquake early warning (EEW) system has been being operated by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) since 2007, disseminating information on imminent strong ground motion to the general public and advanced technical users. In the beginning of the operation, the system ran based mainly on standard source-based algorithms with a point-source location estimate and ground motion prediction equation. The point-source algorithms successfully provided ground motion predictions with high accuracy during the initial operation; however, the 2011 Mw9.0 Tohoku-Oki earthquake and the subsequent intense aftershock and triggered earthquake activities underscored the weaknesses of the source-based approach. In this paper, we summarize major system developments after the Tohoku-Oki event to overcome the limits of the standard point-source algorithms and to enhance the EEW performance further. In addition, we evaluate how the system performance was influenced by the updates. One of significant improvements in the JMA EEW system was the implementation of two new ground motion prediction methods: the integrated particle filter (IPF) and propagation of local undamped motion (PLUM) algorithms. IPF is a robust point-source algorithm based on the Bayesian inference, and PLUM is a wavefield-based algorithm that predicts ground motions directly from observed shakings. Another notable update was the incorporation of new observation facilities including S-net, a large-scale ocean bottom seismometer network deployed along the Japan and Kuril trenches. The prediction accuracy and warning issuance performance analysis for the updated JMA EEW system showed that IPF improved the source-based ground motion prediction accuracy and reduced the risk of issuing overpredicted warnings. PLUM made the system less likely to underpredict strong ground motions and improved the warning issuance timeliness. The detection time analysis for the S-net incorporation suggested that S-net enabled the system to issue the first EEW report earlier than before the S-net incorporation for earthquakes around the Japan and Kuril trenches. Those findings indicate that the JMA EEW system has made substantial progress both on software and hardware aspects over the 10 years after the Tohoku-Oki earthquake.
Association of Estrogen Receptor Genes Polymorphisms With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Based on Observational Studies
Authors: Zhou Siyu , Wen Shu , Sheng Yongcheng , Yang Meina , Shen Xiaoyang , Chen Yan , Kang Deying , Xu Liangzhi
Published: October 2021

Purpose

Controversial results existed in amounts of studies investigating the authentic association of estrogen receptor genes (ESR1 and ESR2) polymorphisms with the occurrence and progression of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The inconsistency might result from different loci, sample sizes, and ethnicities. To find the potential correlations between ESR1/ESR2 polymorphisms and PCOS risk, we conducted the first systematic review and meta-analysis to comprehensively summarize current studies in a large combined population.

Methods

Eligible studies were retrieved from PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CBM, CNKI, WANFANG, and VIP up to February 28, 2021. The quality of studies was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS) scoring system. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) were calculated to synthesize data in five genetic models. Subgroup analyses were conducted by ethnicity. Heterogeneity and publication bias were also assessed. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO under the number CRD42021239200.

Results

A total of 8 studies involving 1,522 PCOS patients and 4,198 controls were included. No evidence demonstrated the association of ESR1 rs2234693 (OR=1.07 95%CI 0.98–1.18), ESR1 rs9340799 (OR=0.99 95%CI 0.69–1.43), or ESR2 rs4986938 (OR=1.06 95%CI 0.81–1.38) polymorphisms and PCOS risk in five genetic models. According to stratified subgroup analyses, ethnicity was considered the major source of heterogeneity. No publication bias was found in eligible studies.

Conclusion

The present meta-analysis found no significant associations between the variants of ESR1 rs2234693, ESR1 rs9340799, ESR2 rs4936938, and individual PCOS susceptibility, even if ethnicity was taken into account.

Systematic Review Registration

The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (available from https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO) with the ID number CRD42021239200.
Power Decoupling Control of MMC and Small-Signal Stability Analysis of AC/DC Distribution Network With Renewable Energy
Authors: Xianyong Zhang , Zijuan Guo , Yaohong Huang , Li Li , Weikuan Peng , Jian Cen
Published: October 2021

AC/DC hybrid distribution network can realize the high penetration utilization of renewable energy and modular multilevel converter (MMC) is the key equipment to connect AC grid and DC grid. In this paper, the direct modulation based on the virtual resistor and the reference value of dc-bus voltage is adopted, and instantaneous-value model of three-phase half-bridge MMC is derived by introducing differential-mode and common-mode component representation. Then, the decoupling control of AC active power and reactive power is designed based on the linear active disturbance rejection control theory (LADRC). The total disturbances including the coupling term and capacitor voltage fluctuation can be estimated by extended state observer (ESO), and then cancelled exactly. Based on the simplified average-value model of MMC, the small signal stability analysis of three-terminal AC/DC distribution network with 26-level MMCs corresponding to the Tangjiawan-Jishan1-Jishan2 demonstration project is carried out by root locus and bode diagram method, which gives the guidance for the choice of the main circuit component and controller parameters, and shows that the virtual resistor greatly reduces the resonant peak of AC/DC distribution network. Simulation and experiment results verify the effectiveness of the power decoupling control strategy of MMC and the AC/DC distribution network can realize complex multi-directional power flow.
Understanding and Modeling Forest Disturbance Interactions at the Landscape Level
Authors: Sturtevant Brian R. , Fortin Marie-Josée
Published: October 2021

Disturbances, both natural and anthropogenic, affect the configuration, composition, and function of forested ecosystems. Complex system behaviors emerge from the interactions between disturbance regimes, the vegetation response to those disturbances, and their interplay with multiple drivers (climate, topography, land use, etc.) across spatial and temporal scales. Here, we summarize conceptual advances and empirical approaches to disturbance interaction investigation, and used those insights to evaluate and categorize 146 landscape modeling studies emerging from a systematic review of the literature published since 2010. Recent conceptual advances include formal disaggregation of disturbances into their constituent components, embedding disturbance processes into system dynamics, and clarifying terminology for interaction factors, types, and ecosystem responses. Empirical studies investigating disturbance interactions now span a wide range of approaches, including (most recently) advanced statistical methods applied to an expanding set of spatial and temporal datasets. Concurrent development in spatially-explicit landscape models, informed by these empirical insights, integrate the interactions among natural and anthropogenic disturbances by coupling these processes to account for disturbance stochasticity, disturbance within and across scales, and non-linear landscape responses to climate change. Still, trade-offs between model elegance and complexity remain. We developed an index for the degree of process integration (i.e., balance of static vs. dynamic components) within a given disturbance agent and applied it to the studies from our systematic review. Contemporary model applications in this line of research have applied a wide range process integration, depending on the specific question, but also limited in part by data and knowledge. Non-linear “threshold” behavior and cross-scaled interactions remain a frontier in temperate, boreal, and alpine regions of North America and Europe, while even simplistic studies are lacking from other regions of the globe (e.g., subtropical and tropical biomes). Understanding and planning for uncertainty in system behavior—including disturbance interactions—is paramount at a time of accelerated anthropogenic change. While progress in landscape modeling studies in this area is evident, work remains to increase model transparency and confidence, especially for understudied regions and processes. Moving forward, a multi-dimensional approach is recommended to address the uncertainties of complex human-ecological dynamics.
The Effect of Climate and Diet on Body Lipid Composition in the Oriental Hornet (Vespa orientalis)
Authors: Volov Mika , Cohen Nitzan , Bodner Levona , Dubiner Shahar , Hefetz Abraham , Bouchebti Sofia , Levin Eran
Published: October 2021

Fatty acids (FA) are the primary metabolic fuel for many organisms and the fundamental component of membranes of all living organisms. FAs can be saturated (SFA), monounsaturated (MUFA), or polyunsaturated (PUFA). PUFA are not synthesized by most animals and are considered as essential nutrients. We examined the effect of climate on the saturation level of polar (mostly membranal) and neutral lipids in the body of the Oriental hornet (Vespa orientalis) from two extreme climatic zones: Mediterranean high elevation; and hot arid desert. In contrast to previous reports, the environmental temperature was shown to affect the hornet colonies’ thermal environments. The hornets nonetheless maintained their colony temperature within a narrow range. Analyses of the hornets’ unsaturation levels of polar and non-polar body lipids revealed caste differences: gynes and males contained less unsaturated lipids than workers. However, there were no differences in the respective castes between the two different climate zones tested. Experimentally manipulating the diet of queenless hornet colonies to a high Omega-3 diet (salmon) or a high Omega-6 diet (crickets) had only a minor effect on the worker-born males’ lipid composition. Although salmon-fed males had a higher Omega-3 content than cricket-fed ones, the proportion of these fatty acids was still low (below 1%). Cricket-fed males had significantly higher levels of Omega-6 than salmon-fed males. Our data show that the specific lipid composition of the hornet body is highly regulated and deficient in essential PUFA, even under different climates or high Omega-3 or Omega-6 PUFA diet. PUFA, especially Omega-3, is considered to have a beneficial effect on physiological processes. Our finding that these FA, when common in the diet, are almost absent in the body raises questions about how they affect animals’ physiology.
Structure and Phylogeny of the Curly Birch Chloroplast Genome
Authors: Shestibratov Konstantin A. , Baranov Oleg Yu. , Mescherova Eugenia N. , Kiryanov Pavel S. , Panteleev Stanislav V. , Mozharovskaya Ludmila V. , Krutovsky Konstantin V. , Padutov Vladimir E.
Published: October 2021

Curly birch [Betula pendula var. carelica (Merckl.) Hämet-Ahti] is a relatively rare variety of silver birch (B. pendula Roth) that occurs mainly in Northern Europe and northwest part of Russia (Karelia). It is famous for the beautiful decorative texture of wood. Abnormal xylogenesis underlying this trait is heritable, but its genetic mechanism has not yet been fully understood. The high number of potentially informative genetic markers can be identified through sequencing nuclear and organelle genomes. Here, the de novo assembly, complete nucleotide sequence, and annotation of the chloroplast genome (plastome) of curly birch are presented for the first time. The complete plastome length is 160,523 bp. It contains 82 genes encoding structural and enzymatic proteins, 37 transfer RNAs (tRNAs), and eight ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs). The chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) is AT-rich containing 31.5% of A and 32.5% of T nucleotides. The GC-rich regions represent inverted repeats IR1 and IR2 containing genes of rRNAs (5S, 4.5S, 23S, and 16S) and tRNAs (trnV, trnI, and trnA). A high content of GC was found in rRNA (55.2%) and tRNA (53.2%) genes, but only 37.0% in protein-coding genes. In total, 384 microsatellite or simple sequence repeat (SSR) loci were found, mostly with mononucleotide motifs (92% of all loci) and predominantly A or T motifs (94% of all mononucleotide motifs). Comparative analysis of cpDNA in different plant species revealed high structural and functional conservatism in organization of the angiosperm plastomes, while the level of differences depends on the phylogenetic relationship. The structural and functional organization of plastome in curly birch was similar to cpDNA in other species of woody plants. Finally, the identified cpDNA sequence variation will allow to develop useful genetic markers.
Candidate Gene Polymorphisms Influence the Susceptibility to Salt Sensitivity of Blood Pressure in a Han Chinese Population: Risk Factors as Mediators
Authors: Xie Yunyi , Liu Zheng , Liu Kuo , Qi Han , Peng Wenjuan , Cao Han , Liu Xiaohui , Li Bingxiao , Wen Fuyuan , Zhang Fengxu , Zhang Ling
Published: October 2021

Genome-wide association studies suggest that there is a significant genetic susceptibility to salt sensitivity of blood pressure (SSBP), but it still needs to be verified in varied and large sample populations. We attempted to verify the associations between single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in candidate genes and SSBP and to estimate their interaction with potential risk factors. A total of 29 candidate SNPs were genotyped in the 2,057 northern Han Chinese population from the Systems Epidemiology Study on Salt Sensitivity. A modified Sullivan’s acute oral saline load and diuresis shrinkage test (MSAOSL-DST) was used to identify SSBP. A generalized linear model was conducted to analyze the association between SNPs and SSBP, and Bonferroni correction was used for multiple testing. Mediation analysis was utilized to explore the mediation effect of risk factors. Eleven SNPs in eight genes (PRKG1, CYBA, BCAT1, SLC8A1, AGTR1, SELE, CYP4A11, and VSNL1) were identified to be significantly associated with one or more SSBP phenotypes (P < 0.05). Four SNPs (PRKG1/rs1904694 and rs7897633, CYP4A11/rs1126742, and CYBA/rs4673) were still significantly associated after Bonferroni correction (P < 0.0007) adjusted for age, sex, fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, salt-eating habit, physical activity, and hypertension. Stratified analysis showed that CYBA/rs4673 was significantly associated with SSBP in hypertensive subjects (P < 0.0015) and CYP4A11/rs1126742 was significantly associated with SSBP in normotensive subjects (P < 0.0015). Subjects carrying both CYBA/rs4673-AA and AGTR1/rs2638360-GG alleles have a higher genetic predisposition to salt sensitivity due to the potential gene co-expression interaction. Expression quantitative trait loci analysis (eQTL) suggested that the above positive four SNPs showed cis-eQTL effects on the gene expression levels. Mediation analysis suggested that several risk factors were mediators of the relation between SNP and SSBP. This study suggests that the genetic variants in eight genes might contribute to the susceptibility to SSBP, and other risk factors may be the mediators.