bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fault diagnosis method based on triple generative adversarial nets for imbalanced data
Authors: Su Changwei , Wang Xueren , Liu Ruijie , Guo Ziyi , Sang Shengtian , Yu Shuang , Zhang Haifeng
Published: November 2022

Deep learning (DL) fault diagnosis methods require no expert knowledge and can adaptively extract fault features to realize automated diagnoses. However, factories’ limited and imbalanced data cause DL fault diagnosis methods to fail to meet data diversity requirements and perform poorly. To solve this problem, this paper proposes triple Wasserstein generative adversarial nets with classifier penalty (Triple-WGAN-CP). We first train Triple-WGAN-CP to generate samples to balance the original unbalanced dataset, then input the new balanced dataset to the fault classifier of Triple-WGAN-CP to continue training. Finally, when the numbers of consecutive sampling points in each of the nine fault classes are only 3140, 2300, and 2076, we achieve the highest prediction accuracies of 99.5%, 95.1%, and 65.1%, respectively, and the highest average accuracies for the nine environments (signal-to-noise ratio −4, −2, 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, and ∞) of 96.2%, 84.1%, and 55.1%, respectively. Comparisons with other methods show that this has achieved significant improvements in accuracy and noise robustness and has broad application prospects in the field of limited and imbalanced data fault diagnosis.
Collaboration and feeling of flow with an online interactive H5P video experiment on viscosity
Authors: Kosmaca Jelena , Siiman Leo A
Published: November 2022

Online video experiments are a promising educational technology tool for science laboratory classes. In order to find optimal instructional designs and scenarios for using online video experiments, we need to study learners’ experiences. This work describes implementation of an online interactive video experiment at the undergraduate introductory physics level. Three variations of an online video experiment with different levels of interactivity were designed and tested with 68 students. Our findings suggest that interactive H5P features added to the video can support collaboration and engage students by providing the needed scaffolding and feedback during online practical works. Interactive branching can be used to advance video experiments towards simulating real laboratory collaboration experiences in an online learning environment.
Measuring the average velocity and acceleration of a moving object on an inclined plane using a magnetic sensor on a smartphone
Authors: Dumrongkitpakorn Pollawat , Khemmani Supitch , Plaipichit Suwan , Wicharn Surawut , Puttharugsa Chokchai
Published: November 2022

This paper demonstrates an alternative method to measure the time interval of a moving object in linear motion using the magnetic sensor of a smartphone. The smartphone is stationary and records the magnetic field as a function of time from a moving object with attached magnetic buttons. The value of time interval is then measured and both velocity and acceleration are calculated for the moving object. This method prevents the smartphone from being damaged. The proposed experiment is easy to set up with available objects, and students can conduct this experiment at home.
A novel multi-scale 2D CNN with weighted focal loss for arrhythmias detection on varying-dimensional ECGs
Authors: Xia Pan , He Zhengling , Bai Zhongrui , Wang Yuqi , Yu Xianya , Geng Fanglin , Du Lidong , Chen Xianxiang , Wang Peng , Zhu Yusi , Du Mingyan , Fang Zhen
Published: November 2022

Objective. The ECG is a standard diagnostic tool for identifying many arrhythmias. Accurate diagnosis and early intervention for arrhythmias are of great significance to the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. Our objective is to develop an algorithm that can automatically identify 30 arrhythmias by using varying-dimensional ECG signals. Approach. In this paper, we firstly proposed a novel multi-scale 2D CNN that can effectively capture pathological information from small-scale to large-scale from ECG signals to identify 30 arrhythmias from 12-lead, 6-lead, 4-lead, 3-lead, and 2-lead ECGs. Secondly, we explored the effects of varying convolution kernels sizes and branch subnetworks on the model’s performance for each arrhythmia. Thirdly, we introduced the weighted focal loss to alleviate the positive-negative class imbalance problem in the multi-label arrhythmias classification. Fourthly, we explored the utility of reduced-lead ECGs in detecting arrhythmias by comparing the performances of models on varying-dimensional ECGs. Main results. As a follow-up entry after the PhysioNet/Computing in Cardiology Challenge (2021), our proposed approach achieved the official test scores of 0.52, 0.47, 0.53, 0.51, and 0.50 for the 12-lead, 6-lead, 4-lead, 3-lead, and 2-lead ECGs on the hidden test set (comparable to that of 6th, 11th, 4th, 5th, and 7th out of 39 teams in the Challenge). Significance. A multi-scale framework capable of detecting 30 arrhythmias from varying-dimensional ECGs was proposed in our work. We preliminarily verified that the multi-scale perception fields may be necessary to capture more comprehensive pathological information for arrhythmias detection. Besides, we also verified that the weighted focal loss may alleviate the positive–negative class imbalance and improve the model’s generalization performance on the cross-dataset. In addition, we observed that some reduced-lead models, such as the 4-lead and 3-lead models, can even achieve performance that is almost comparable to that of the 12-lead model. The excellent performance of our proposed framework demonstrates its great potential in detecting a wide range of arrhythmias.
Nanosecond pulsed discharge dynamics during passage of a transient laminar flame
Authors: Pavan Colin A , Guerra-Garcia Carmen
Published: November 2022

This work presents an experimental study of a nanosecond repetitively pulsed dielectric barrier discharge interacting with a transient laminar flame propagating in a channel of height near the quenching distance of the flame. The discharge and the flame are of comparable size, and the discharge is favoured at a location where it is coupled with the reaction zone and burnt gas. The primary goal is to determine how the discharge evolves on the time scale of the flame passage, with the evolution driven by the changing gas state produced by the moving flame front. This work complements the large body of work investigating the effect of plasma to modify flame dynamics, by considering the other side of the interaction (how the discharge is modified by the flame). The hot gas produced by the combustion had a strong effect on the discharge, with the discharge preferentially forming in the region of hot combustion products. The per-pulse energy deposited by the discharge was measured and found to increase with the size of the discharge region and applied voltage. The pulse repetition frequency did not have a direct impact on the per-pulse energy, but did have an effect on the morphology and size of the discharge region. Two distinct discharge regimes were observed: uniform and filamentary (microdischarges). Higher pulse repetition frequencies and faster-cooling combustion products were more likely to transition to the filamentary regime, while lower frequencies and slower-cooling combustion products maintained a uniform regime for the entirety of the time the discharge was active. This regime transition was influenced by the ratio of the time scale of fluid motion to the pulse repetition rate (with no noticeable impact caused by the reduced electric field), with the filamentary regime preferentially observed in situations where this ratio was small. This work demonstrates the importance of considering how the discharge properties will change due to combustion processes in applications utilizing plasma assistance for transient combustion systems.
Nonequilibrium plasma in water vapor
Authors: Tropina Albina , Shneider M N , Miles R B
Published: November 2022

A kinetic model of a non-equilibrium water vapor plasma created by a nanosecond pulsed discharge at elevated temperatures and at low pressure is presented. The model includes equations for electron, vibrational and gas temperatures combined with equations for neutral, charged, electronically and vibrationally excited species. Simulation results are compared with the available experimental data and show good agreement in dynamics of the plasma decay and electron drift velocities. It is shown that the plasma decay in pure water vapor is controlled by the dissociative recombination. Under the conditions simulated, the concentration of electronically excited species is low, but we observe a formation of vibrationally excited species. A significant decrease in the electrical conductivity of water plasma with time, which depends on the level of initial ionization, is shown.
Gravitational waves in f(R, T)-rainbow gravity: even modes and the Huygens principle
Authors: Aydogdu O , Salti M
Published: November 2022

In the context of f(R, T)-gravity, propagation of gravitational waves (GWs) for even (or polar) modes is explored by using the Regge-Wheeler gauge in the conformally flat Friedman-Lemaitre-Robertson-Walker type rainbow (CFR) universe. Writing the perturbed field equations for the polar GWs in the CFR spacetime, we first acquire a second-order differential equation for one of the unknown perturbation factors and then get all other unknown perturbation functions. Withal, we reach a conclusion that both the four-velocity vector components except the third one and the corresponding matter distribution are affected by the polar perturbation. Furthermore, the effect of rainbow functions, which can change the geometry of space-time, on the polar GWs is also analyzed graphically. We achieve that the shape (wavelength and amplitude) of polar GWs is dramatically impressed by the alteration of rainbow functions. Lastly, we investigate whether the polar GWs satisfy the Huygens principle.
Proteolytic and mechanical remodeling of the extracellular matrix by invadopodia in cancer
Authors: Perrin L , Gligorijevic B
Published: November 2022

Cancer invasion and metastasis require remodeling of the adjacent extracellular matrix (ECM). In this mini review, we will cover the mechanisms of proteolytic degradation and the mechanical remodeling of the ECM by cancer cells, with a focus on invadopodia. Invadopodia are membrane protrusions unique to cancer cells, characterized by an actin core and by the focal degradation of ECM via matrix metalloproteases (MMPs). While ECM can also be remodeled, at lower levels, by focal adhesions, or internal collagen digestion, invadopodia are now recognized as the major mechanism for MMP-dependent pericellular ECM degradation by cancer cells. Recent evidence suggests that the completion of epithelial-mesenchymal transition may be dispensable for invadopodia and metastasis, and that invadopodia are required not only for mesenchymal, single cell invasion, but also for collective invasion. During collective invasion, invadopodia was then shown to be located in leader cells, allowing follower cells to move via cooperation. Collectively, this suggests that invadopodia function may be a requirement not only for later steps of metastasis, but also for early invasion of epithelial cells into the stromal tissue. Over the last decade, invadopodia studies have transitioned into in 3D and in vivo settings, leading to the confirmation of their essential role in metastasis in preclinical animal models. In summary, invadopodia may hold a great potential for individual risk assessment as a prognostic marker for metastasis, as well as a therapeutic target.
Low-lying state investigations of odd-A Mn isotopes around N = 28
Authors: Ye Huanyi , Li Jian , 李 剑 , Yang Dong , Jin Hua , Huang Xiaolong
Published: November 2022

Based on the systematic studies for low-lying states of the odd-A
49−57Mn isotopes, the ground-states inversion and the rotational properties of a ground-state-based sequence are revealed and discussed. The energy levels of low-lying states and electromagnetic moments in odd-A
49−57Mn isotopes have been well reproduced in shell-model calculations, and the above phenomena could be understood with obviously different occupation numbers in proton orbitals such as π
f
7/2 and π
p
3/2, which changes similarly with the obtained quadrupole deformation in covariant density functional theory (CDFT). After considering the coupling of collective rotation and intrinsic single-particle motion, the available experimental magnetic moments in 53Mn and adjacent nuclei can be well explained with CDFT. The present calculations suggest that the 5/2− and 7/2− states in 53Mn are formed by π5/2−[312] and π7/2−[303] respectively. Together with the behavior of levels, this provides proofs for the level sequences of low-lying states in 53Mn distinct from the K

π
= 5/2− rotational band in 49Cr and other odd-A Mn isotopes.
Model and data of optically controlled tunable capacitor in silicon single-photon avalanche diode
Authors: Zeng Mei-Ling , Wang Yang , Jin Xiang-Liang , Peng Yan , Luo Jun
Published: November 2022

This paper reports the photocapacitance effect of silicon-based single-photon avalanche diodes (SPADs), and the frequency scattering phenomenon of capacitance. The test results of the small-signal capacitance–voltage method show that light can cause the capacitance of a SPAD device to increase under low-frequency conditions, and the photocapacitance exhibits frequency-dependent characteristics. Since the devices are fabricated based on the standard bipolar-CMOS-DMOS process, this study attributes the above results to the interfacial traps formed by Si–SiO2, and the illumination can effectively reduce the interfacial trap lifetime, leading to changes in the junction capacitance inside the SPAD. Accordingly, an equivalent circuit model considering the photocapacitance effect is also proposed in this paper. Accurate analysis of the capacitance characteristics of SPAD has important scientific significance and application value for studying the energy level distribution of device interface defect states and improving the interface quality.
First-principles prediction of quantum anomalous Hall effect in two-dimensional Co2Te lattice
Authors: Liu Yuan-Shuo , Sun Hao , Hu Chun-Sheng , Wu Yun-Jing , Zhang Chang-Wen
Published: November 2022

The quantum anomalous Hall effect (QAHE) has special quantum properties that are ideal for possible future spintronic devices. However, the experimental realization is rather challenging due to its low Curie temperature and small non-trivial bandgap in two-dimensional (2D) materials. In this paper, we demonstrate through first-principles calculations that monolayer Co2Te material is a promising 2D candidate to realize QAHE in practice. Excitingly, through Monte Carlo simulations, it is found that the Curie temperature of single-layer Co2Te can reach 573 K. The band crossing at the Fermi level in monolayer Co2Te is opened when spin–orbit coupling is considered, which leads to QAHE with a sizable bandgap of E
g = 96 meV, characterized by the non-zero Chern number (C = 1) and a chiral edge state. Therefore, our findings not only enrich the study of quantum anomalous Hall effect, but also broaden the horizons of the spintronics and topological nanoelectronics applications.
Simulating lattice quantum electrodynamics on a quantum computer
Authors: Kan Angus , Nam Yunseong
Published: November 2022

U(1) lattice gauge theories (LGTs) offer a way to simulate quantum electrodynamics, one of the three forces unified by the Standard Model of particles physics. Here we provide complete, quantum-gate-by-quantum-gate algorithms to simulate U(1) LGTs on a fault-tolerant quantum computer. We further perform rigorous error analysis in order to derive concrete estimates of the quantum computational resources required for an accurate simulation of U(1) LGTs using a second-order product formula. We show that U(1) LGTs in any spatial dimension can be simulated using

O
˜

(

T

3
2

N

3
2

Λ

ϵ

−

1
2

)

non-Clifford T gates, where T is the simulation time, N is the number of lattice sites, Λ is the truncation parameter for the bosonic gauge fields, and ε is the simulation error. This work paves the way towards fault-tolerant quantum simulations of physical models closely related to the Standard Model of particle physics.
A novel humanized Chi3l1 blocking antibody attenuates acetaminophen-induced liver injury in mice
Authors: Li Leike , Wen Yankai , Wrapp Daniel , Jeong Jongmin , Zhao Peng , Xiong Wei , Atkins Constance Lynn , Shan Zhao , Hui Deng , McLellan Jason S , Zhang Ningyan , Ju Cynthia , An Zhiqiang
Published: November 2022

Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose is a leading cause of acute liver injury in the USA. The chitinase 3-like-1 (Chi3l1) protein contributes to APAP-induced liver injury (AILI) by promoting hepatic platelet recruitment. Here, we report the development of a Chi3l1-targeting antibody as a potential therapy for AILI. By immunizing a rabbit successively with the human and mouse Chi3l1 proteins, we isolated cross-reactive monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) from single memory B cells. One of the human and mouse Chi3l1 cross-reactive mAbs was humanized and characterized in both in vitro and in vivo biophysical and biological assays. X-ray crystallographic analysis of the lead antibody C59 in complex with the human Chi3l1 protein revealed that the kappa light contributes to majority of the antibody–antigen interaction; and that C59 binds to the 4α-5β loop and 4α-helix of Chi3l1, which is a functional epitope and hotspot for the development of Chi3l1 blocking antibodies. We humanized the C59 antibody by complementarity-determining region grafting and kappa chain framework region reverse mutations. The humanized C59 antibody exhibited similar efficacy as the parental rabbit antibody C59 in attenuating AILI in vivo. Our findings validate Chi3l1 as a potential drug target for AILI and provide proof of concept of developing Chi3l1 blocking antibody as a therapy for the treatment of AILI.
Safety of Helium-based Plasma Technology for Coagulation of Soft Tissue: A Retrospective Review
Authors: Shridharani Sachin M , Kennedy MacKenzie L
Published: November 2022

Background

The subdermal application of energy using a helium-based plasma radiofrequency (RF) device has been shown to improve skin laxity. Helium-based plasma RF technology (Renuvion; Apyx Medical, Clearwater, FL) utilizes RF to ionize helium into an electrically conductive plasma capable of coagulating and contracting soft tissue with high precision and minimal thermal spread. This study provides information on the early use of the new generation of electrosurgical generator (APYX-RS3) containing a feature that allows for quantification of the amount of energy delivered to tissue during treatments.

Objectives

To collate procedure details, treatment settings, and safety data in patients treated with a helium-based plasma device for soft tissue coagulation.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of patients aged ≥ 18 years who underwent treatment with a helium-based plasma RF device (Renuvion) for soft tissue coagulation. Demographic data, procedure details, and adverse events were collected.

Results

Chart review identified 47 patients with an average age of 45 years and an average BMI of 25.8 kg/m2. The amount of energy (J) delivered per treatment area was greatest for abdomen, buttocks, and thighs, with an average of 13.7 kJ, 13.5 kJ, and 10.6 kJ, respectively. No serious, unexpected, or device-related AEs were reported.

Conclusions

The use of the generator that quantifies the energy (joules) being applied during the procedure allows the provider to understand and optimize their energy usage. While further research is needed to establish the safety and efficacy of the device for skin tightening, this study provides important information regarding energy application.

Level of Evidence: 4
Clarion is a multi-label problem transformation method for identifying mRNA subcellular localizations
Authors: Bi Yue , Li Fuyi , Guo Xudong , Wang Zhikang , Pan Tong , Guo Yuming , Webb Geoffrey I , Yao Jianhua , Jia Cangzhi , Song Jiangning
Published: November 2022

Subcellular localization of messenger RNAs (mRNAs) plays a key role in the spatial regulation of gene activity. The functions of mRNAs have been shown to be closely linked with their localizations. As such, understanding of the subcellular localizations of mRNAs can help elucidate gene regulatory networks. Despite several computational methods that have been developed to predict mRNA localizations within cells, there is still much room for improvement in predictive performance, especially for the multiple-location prediction. In this study, we proposed a novel multi-label multi-class predictor, termed Clarion, for mRNA subcellular localization prediction. Clarion was developed based on a manually curated benchmark dataset and leveraged the weighted series method for multi-label transformation. Extensive benchmarking tests demonstrated Clarion achieved competitive predictive performance and the weighted series method plays a crucial role in securing superior performance of Clarion. In addition, the independent test results indicate that Clarion outperformed the state-of-the-art methods and can secure accuracy of 81.47, 91.29, 79.77, 92.10, 89.15, 83.74, 80.74, 79.23 and 84.74% for chromatin, cytoplasm, cytosol, exosome, membrane, nucleolus, nucleoplasm, nucleus and ribosome, respectively. The webserver and local stand-alone tool of Clarion is freely available at http://monash.bioweb.cloud.edu.au/Clarion/.
Simultaneous Determination of the Content of Isoimperatorin, Imperatorin, Oxypeucedanin, Xanthotoxol and Byakangelicin in Angelica dahurica by HPTLC Scanning
Authors: Yang Hanting , Li Qian
Published: November 2022

In this study, we established a new rapid, simple and low cost method for the determination of coumarin components in Angelica dahurica using high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) based on the standards of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia for the analysis of isoimperatorin, imperatorin, oxypeucedanin, xanthotoxol and byakangelicin. The coumarins in A. dahurica were extracted with solvent methods, and linear ascending development was carried out in a twin trough glass chamber saturated with petroleum ether-ethyl acetate (3:2, v/v). The plate was dried and analyzed by HPTLC scanner at 254 nm. The five coumarin components have achieved good separation, clear and satisfactory resolution with the Rf values of 0.84, 0.69, 0.64, 0.57 and 0.19 for isoimperatorin, imperatorin, oxypeucedanin, xanthotoxol and byakangelicin, respectively. The content of five coumarins were 0.282, 0.626, 0.393, 0.066 and 0.144, respectively. In addition, the calibration range was constructed in the range 0.8-4.0 μg/spot; the limit of detection and limit of quantification, precision, repeatability and recovery were stably and good. This study indicated that the HPTLC scanning could be used for the determination of multiple components in A. dahurica.
Great Power Rivalry and Hedging: The Case of AIIB Founding Members
Authors: Jang Woojeong
Published: November 2022

Why did some states join the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), overriding the US opposition, while others did not? Are they balancing against the USA and accommodating China? Characterizing the joining of the AIIB as a case of hedging, this study unearths the political calculus behind hedging amidst great power rivalry. Placing my argument within a relational-network approach, I argue that states deeply embedded in the dominant international order are more likely to join the AIIB to hedge. First, the fear of abandonment is lower for highly embedded states due to their significance in the international order. Second, the fear of domination is also lower for states with extensive network ties; they can use their social and political power to voice their demands, mobilize other states, and earn policy concessions. Hence, I expect hedging to be a strategy of core states instead of second-tier or rogue states. I test the hypothesis with a large-N analysis using an original dataset on states’ embeddedness in the US-led order and comparative case studies of the UK and Ireland.
De novowhole-genome assembly in an interspecific hybrid table grape, ‘Shine Muscat’
Authors: Shirasawa Kenta , Hirakawa Hideki , Azuma Akifumi , Taniguchi Fumiya , Yamamoto Toshiya , Sato Akihiko , Ghelfi Andrea , Isobe Sachiko N
Published: November 2022

The first genome sequence of an interspecific grape hybrid (Vitis labruscana × Vitis vinifera), ‘Shine Muscat’, an elite table grape cultivar bred in Japan, is presented. The resultant genome assemblies included two types of sequences: a haplotype-phased sequence of the highly heterozygous genomes and an unphased sequence representing a ‘pseudo-haploid’ genome. The unphased sequences, assembled to the chromosome level with Hi-C reads, spanned 488.97 Mb in length, 99.1% of the estimated genome size, with 4,595 scaffold sequences and a 23.9-Mb N50 length. The phased sequences had 15,650 scaffolds spanning 1.0 Gb and a 4.2-Mb N50 length. 32,827 high-confidence genes were predicted on the unphased genomes. Clustering analysis of the ‘Shine Muscat’ gene sequences with three other Vitis species and Arabidopsis indicated that 11,279 orthologous gene clusters were common to Vitis spp. and Arabidopsis, 4,385 were Vitis specific, and 234 were ‘Shine Muscat’ specific. Whole-genome resequencing was also performed for the parental lines of ‘Shine Muscat’, Akitsu-21 and ‘Hakunan’, and parental-specific copy number variations were identified. The obtained genome resources provide new insights that could assist in cultivation and breeding strategies to produce high-quality table grapes.
Serial observation of PK Papyrus covered stent implantation for coronary artery perforation by optical coherence tomography and coronary angioscopy: a case report
Authors: Ishiguro Nobuo , Aoyama Hidekazu , Kametani Ryosuke
Published: November 2022

Background

Coronary artery perforation is a rare but life-threatening complication of percutaneous coronary intervention. We present a case of coronary artery perforation treated with a PK Papyrus covered stent. Neointimal coverage evaluation was performed using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and coronary angioscopy (CAS) at 3 and 9 months after stent implantation.

Case summary

A 63-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with worsening effort angina over 3 months. Coronary angiography revealed severe stenosis in the proximal segment of the left anterior descending artery. After stent implantation, coronary artery perforation occurred. We immediately sealed the perforation site using a PK Papyrus covered stent. The patient was discharged on postoperative day 4. OCT and CAS revealed incomplete neointimal coverage at the PK Papyrus covered stent strut 3 months after stent implantation. At 9 postoperative months, complete neointimal coverage was observed. We continued clopidogrel and edoxaban, but no clinical adverse events were encountered during the follow-up.

Discussion

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a serial observation of PK Papyrus covered stent implantation for coronary artery perforation using OCT and CAS. In this case, OCT and CAS revealed complete neointimal coverage, without obvious thrombus, 9 months after PK Papyrus implantation. Based on the OCT and CAS findings, our report presents an appropriate follow-up strategy for the prevention of stent thrombosis when using a PK Papyrus covered stent, which will contribute to future research on the appropriate duration of dual antiplatelet therapy and evaluation of neointimal coverage.
Leaflet fracture and escape from an On-X mechanical mitral valve in a child: a case report
Authors: Uthayakumaran Gajon , Finucane Kirsten , Gentles Thomas , Mitchelson Bryan
Published: November 2022

Background

Leaflet escape is a rare complication of mechanical heart valves. The following case is the first report of leaflet escape from an On-X mechanical mitral valve in a child.

Case summary

A 12-year-old boy presented with acute pulmonary oedema one year after mitral valve replacement with an On-X valve for rheumatic heart disease. Transoesophageal echocardiogram diagnosed an absent mechanical mitral valve leaflet and severe mitral regurgitation for which the patient successfully underwent urgent mitral valve replacement. Computed tomography located fragments of the embolised mitral valve leaflet at the bifurcation of the abdominal aorta and within the right common iliac artery. In the absence of impaired lower limb perfusion, the leaflet fragments were left in situ. He was discharged without complication and remains asymptomatic three months post-discharge.

Discussion

Leaflet fracture and escape is a known but rare complication of mechanical valve prostheses. The first-line investigation for suspected mechanical valve dysfunction is transoesophageal echocardiogram which elicited the diagnosis on this occasion.
Illness perceptions and health literacy are strongly associated with health-related quality of life, anxiety, and depression in patients with coronary heart disease: results from the EUROASPIRE V cross-sectional survey
Authors: Jennings C S , Astin F , Prescott E , Hansen T , Gale Chris P , De Bacquer D
Published: November 2022

Aims

To (1) Describe the sociodemographic and risk factor profiles of a sample of patients with coronary disease, (2) Explore associations between illness perceptions and health literacy with sociodemographic characteristics and risk factors, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), anxiety, and depression.

Methods and results

Conducted as part of the ESC Prevention of CVD Project and EUROASPIRE V survey, patients were consecutively and retrospectively identified 6 months to 2 years after an acute event or elective procedure from 12 countries and interviewed. Three thousand four hundred and eight participants (76% male, mean age 64 years) were recruited, 16% were smokers, 38% obese, 60% physically inactive, and 41% hypertensive. Forty percent had attended cardiac rehabilitation. More threatening illness perceptions were associated with female gender (P < 0.0001), lower income (P < 0.0001), lower education (P = 0.02), obesity (P < 0.0001), sedentary behaviour (P < 0.0001), and diabetes (P < 0.0001). Poorer health literacy was associated with obesity (P = 0.02) and sedentary behaviour (P = 0.0001). Threatening illness perceptions were strongly associated with anxiety, depression, and poorer ratings of HRQoL after multivariable adjustment (all P < 0.001). Poor health literacy was associated with anxiety and depression (P < 0.0001) and poorer ratings of HRQoL (HeartQol scores P = 0.03). Results were consistent across regions of Europe, age, gender, and socio-economic strata.

Conclusions

Interventions like cardiac rehabilitation should be targeted at vulnerable groups given the strong associations between more threatening illness perceptions, lower health literacy, lower HRQoL, and higher levels of anxiety and depression. The delivery and content of these interventions should be accessible for those with low health literacy.
Multiomics analysis of the mechanisms behind flavonoid differences between purple and green tender shoots of Camellia sinensis var. assamica
Authors: Liu Zhi-Wei , Shi Xing-Yun , Duan Shuang-Mei , Nian Bo , Chen Li-Jiao , Zhang Guang-Hui , Lv Cai-You , Ma Yan , Zhao Ming
Published: November 2022

Flavonoids are rich in tea plants (Camellia sinensis), and responsible for the flavor and healthful benefits of tea beverage. The anthocyanin levels in the purple tender shoots are higher than in the general green leaves of tea plant, which provide special materials to search metabolic mechanisms of flavonoid enrichment in plant. In this work, flavonoid differences between purple and green shoots from tea cultivars “Zijuan” (ZJ) and “Yunkang10” (YK-10) were investigated through metabolomic analysis, and mechanisms for their difference were surveyed by comparative transcriptomic and proteomic analysis. Levels of 34 flavonoids were different between ZJ and YK-10 shoots. Among them, 8 and 6 were marker metabolites in ZJ and YK-10, respectively. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs), differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), and different-level metabolites (DLMs) between ZJ and YK-10 were researched, respectively; and interactions including DEG-DLM, DEP-DLM, DEG-DEP, and DEG-DEP-DLM were analyzed; the contents of 18 characteristic flavonoids in tea leaves and expressions of 34 flavonoid metabolic genes were measured to verify the omics results. Integrated above analyses, a proposed model of flavonoids biosynthesis in tea shoots were established. The differential expression of the leucoanthocyanidin reductase (LAR), anthocyanidin synthase (ANS), anthocyanidin reductase (ANR), UDPG-flavonoid glucosyltransferase (UGT) 75L12 and 94P1 at gene level, and the ANS, ANR, and UGT78A15 at protein level, were closely associated with differences in flavonoids between ZJ and YK-10 shoot. Together, this study provides new information on the flavonoid accumulation mechanism in tea plant.
Relationship of Self-reported and Performance-based Visual Function With Performance-based Measures of Physical Function: The Health ABC Study
Authors: Thompson Atalie C , Miller Michael E , Webb Christopher C , Williamson Jeff D , Kritchevsky Stephen B
Published: November 2022

Background

To assess the relationship between self-reported and performance-based visual impairment (VI) and lower extremity physical function.

Methods

Cross-sectional analysis of 2 219 Health ABC participants who completed vision testing and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Linear regression models used either self-reported (weighted visual function question [VFQ] score) or performance-based (visual acuity [VA], log contrast sensitivity [LCS], Frisby stereoacuity [SA]) to predict SPPB or its components—gait speed, chair stands, or standing balance—with and without covariate adjustment.

Results

Mean age was 73.5 years (range 69–80); 52.4% were female and 37.4% African American. All VI measures were strongly associated with SPPB in unadjusted and adjusted models (p < .001). A self-reported VFQ score 1 standard deviation lower than the mean (mean 87.8 out of 100) demonstrated a −0.241 (95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.325, −0.156) adjusted difference in SPPB. After controlling for covariates, VA of <20/40 (41%) demonstrated a −0.496 (−0.660, −0.331) lower SPPB score while SA score>85 arcsec (30%) had a −0.449 (−0.627, −0.271) adjusted SPPB score versus those with better visual function. LCS < 1.55 (28.6%) was associated with a −0.759 (−0.938, −0.579) lower and LCS ≤ 1.30 (8%) with a −1.216 (−1.515, −0.918) lower adjusted SPPB score relative to better LCS. In a final multivariable model containing multiple vision measures, LCS remained independently associated with SPPB and all components, while SA remained associated with balance (all p < .05).

Conclusions

Both self-reported and performance-based VI are strongly associated with poor lower extremity physical function. These findings may identify a subgroup of older adults with co-existing visual and physical dysfunction who may benefit from targeted screening and intervention to prevent disability.
Life-history traits in the Pacific oysterCrassostrea gigasare robust to ocean acidification under two thermal regimes
Authors: Di Poi Carole , Brodu Nicolas , Gazeau Frédéric , Pernet Fabrice
Published: November 2022

Ocean acidification and warming (OAW) are pressing contemporary issues affecting marine life and specifically calcifying organisms. Here, we investigated the direct effects of OAW on life-history traits of the Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas, the most cultivated bivalve species worldwide. We also tested whether parental conditioning history shaped the phenotypic characters of their progenies (intergenerational carryover effects). Adult oysters and their offspring were exposed to two temperatures (18°C, +3°C) under ambient pH conditions or under an end-of-century acidification scenario (−0.33 pH unit). In adults, we monitored standard biometric and reproductive parameters, stress response by quantifying neuroendocrine metabolites and gamete quality. In larvae, we measured hatching rate, size, biochemical quality, and behavior. We found that reducing pH reduced growth rate and activated the serotonin system, but increasing temperature attenuated these effects. There was no effect of pH on reproduction at either temperature, and no intergenerational carryover effects. Larval characteristics were similar between treatments, regardless of parental conditioning history. Thus, the Pacific oyster seems robust to changes in pH, and increasing temperature is not an aggravating factor. We emphasize that the use of neuroendocrine indicators holds promise for revealing sublethal impacts of environmental changes.
Postbiotic yeast fermentation product supplementation to lactating goats increases the efficiency of milk production by enhancing fiber digestibility and ruminal propionate, and reduces energy losses in methane
Authors: Fernández Carlos , Romero Tamara , Badiola Ignacio , Díaz-Cano Jesús , Sanzol Gregorio , Loor Juan J
Published: November 2022

Although in vitro data with mixed ruminal fluid demonstrated positive effects of posbiotic diet (POS) from lactobacilli on measures of fermentation and microbial profiles, there is a paucity of in vivo data with lactating ruminants. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of incorporating POS into diets of lactating goats on energy (E) partitioning, carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) balance, and performance. Ten late-lactation Murciano-Granadina goats were used in a crossover design with 26-d periods. Goats in the control diet (CON) were fed daily at the rate of 1 kg alfalfa hay and 1.5 kg concentrate, and the treatment group (POS) was fed CON with the addition of 3.75 g/d of Probisan Ruminants (PENTABIOL S.L., Navarra, Spain). No differences in DMI were detected. However, ruminal fluid propionate and apparent total tract digestibilities of NDF and ADF were greater (18%, 4.7%, and 5.2%, respectively; P < 0.05) in POS compared with the CON diet. Daily partitioning of E to milk and efficiency of ME intake for milk production greater (11% and 3.0%, respectively; P < 0.05) in POS compared with CON. The nonprotein RQ was greater in POS compared with CON due to greater (P < 0.05) oxidation of carbohydrate (213 vs. 115 kJ/kg of BW0.75 per day) compared with fat (362 vs. 486 kJ/kg of BW0.75 per day). Although no differences were found in C balance, goats in POS had lower (P < 0.05) amounts of C in CH4 (1.1 vs. 1.3 g/kg BW0.75 per day) compared with CON. There were no differences in N intake or N in feces or urine, but N in milk was greater (P < 0.05) in POS compared with the CON diet (0.8 vs. 0.7 g/kg BW0.75 per day). Yield of fat-corrected milk (FCM) (3.20 vs. 2.72 kg/d; P < 0.05) and concentration of true protein (3.4 vs. 3.3 kg/d; P < 0.05) and lactose (4.7 vs. 4.5 kg/d; P < 0.05) were greater in POS compared with CON. These responses were accompanied by lower (P < 0.05) urea (12.3 vs. 16.6 mM/L) and ammonia-N (6.6 vs. 8.8 mg/L) without changes in fat concentration (6.1% vs. 6.0%; P > 0.05) in POS compared with the CON diet. Daily amount of CH4 emission did not differ P > 0.05 between diets. However, when expressed relative to unit of edible product, feeding POS reduced (P < 0.05) the amount of CH4 by 46 g/kg of milk fat, 97 g/kg of milk protein, and 3 g/kg of milk compared with CON. Overall, data indicated that feeding a postbiotic in late-lactation increased energy efficiency for milk production partly by reducing CH4 emission.
Habitat model for wild boar (Sus scrofa) in Bukhansan National Park, Seoul
Authors: Lee Ohsun , Schlichting Peter E , Jo Yeong-Seok
Published: November 2022

Since the first known sighting in 2004, wild boar have frequently appeared in Seoul causing increased human–wildlife conflicts. Although South Korea designated wild boar as a ‘pest’ species, limited ecological information exists concerning habitat preference and use of the largest wild mammal in the country. Based on 213 presence points, we modeled wild boar habitat preference in Bukhansan National Park, Seoul and validated the model. We analyzed boar presence with 25 raster datasets using MaxEnt, software for species distribution model using maximum entropy modeling algorithm. Slope (23.4%) was the greatest contributing factor for the habitat model, followed by Temperature seasonality (20.4%) and forest type (16.9%), while Precipitation of driest quarter (37.6%) was the most important factor (normalized contribution) of the model, followed by Temperature seasonality (18.9%) and slope (15.4%). Field verification of the model confirmed that the density of boar signs and rooting are twice as high in the area with high MaxEnt values (over 0.7). The habitat model of wild boar will assist habitat management and further our understanding of how to mitigate human–wild boar conflict.
Metabolic and secretory recovery of slow frozen–thawed human ovarian tissue in vitro
Authors: Einenkel Rebekka , Schallmoser Andreas , Sänger Nicole
Published: November 2022

Within the options available for fertility preservation, cryopreservation of ovarian cortical tissue has become an important technique. Freezing and thawing procedures have been optimized to preserve tissue integrity and viability. However, the improvement of the tissue retransplantation is currently of great interest. Rapid angiogenesis is needed at the retransplantation site to accomplish sufficient blood supply to provide oxygen and nutrients. Many studies address this issue. However, we need to understand the physiology of the thawed tissue to gain further understanding of the complexities of the procedure. As freezing and thawing generally impairs cellular metabolism, we aimed to characterize the changes in metabolic activity and secretion of the angiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A) of frozen–thawed ovarian cortical tissue over time. Biopsy punches of ovarian cortical tissue from patients undergoing fertility preservation were maintained in culture without freezing or after a slow-freezing and thawing procedure. VEGF-A secretion was measured after 48 h by ELISA. To examine temporary changes, metabolic activity was assessed for both fresh and frozen–thawed tissue of the same patient. Metabolic activity and VEGF-A secretion were measured at 0, 24 and 48 h in culture. Thawed ovarian cortical tissue secreted significantly less VEGF-A compared to fresh ovarian cortical tissue within 48 h of culture. After thawing, metabolic activity was significantly reduced compared to fresh ovarian cortex but over the course of 48 h, the metabolic activity recovered. Similarly, VEGF-A secretion of thawed tissue increased significantly over 48 h. Here, we have shown that it takes 48 h for ovarian cortical tissue to recover metabolically after thawing, including VEGF-A secretion.
Glioma stem cells activate platelets by plasma-independent thrombin production to promote glioblastoma tumorigenesis
Authors: Sloan Anthony R , Lee-Poturalski Christine , Hoffman Harry C , Harris Peggy L , Elder Theresa E , Richardson Brian , Kerstetter-Fogle Amber , Cioffi Gino , Schroer Julia , Desai Ansh , Cameron Mark , Barnholtz-Sloan Jill , Rich Jeremy , Jankowsky Eckhard , Sen Gupta Anirban , Sloan Andrew E
Published: November 2022

Background

The interaction between platelets and cancer cells has been underexplored in solid tumor models that do not metastasize, for example, glioblastoma (GBM) where metastasis is rare. Histologically, it is known that glioma stem cells (GSCs) are found in perivascular and pseudsopalisading regions of GBM, which are also areas of platelet localization. High platelet counts have been associated with poor clinical outcomes in many cancers. While platelets are known to promote the progression of other tumors, mechanisms by which platelets influence GBM oncogenesis are unknown. Here, we aimed to understand how the bidirectional interaction between platelets and GSCs drives GBM oncogenesis.

Methods

Male and female NSG mice were transplanted with GSC lines and treated with antiplatelet and anti-thrombin inhibitors. Immunofluorescence, qPCR, and Western blots were used to determine expression of coagulation mechanism in GBM tissue and subsequent GSC lines.

Results

We show that GSCs activate platelets by endogenous production of all the factors of the intrinsic and extrinsic coagulation cascades in a plasma-independent manner. Therefore, GSCs produce thrombin resulting in platelet activation. We further demonstrate that the endogenous coagulation cascades of these cancer stem cells are tumorigenic: they activate platelets to promote stemness and proliferation in vitro and pharmacological inhibition delays tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusions

Our findings uncover a specific preferential relationship between platelets and GSCs that drive GBM malignancies and identify a therapeutically targetable novel interaction.
A plastid nucleoside kinase is involved in inosine salvage and control of purine nucleotide biosynthesis
Authors: Chen Xiaoguang , Kim Sang-Hoon , Rhee Sangkee , Witte Claus-Peter
Published: November 2022

In nucleotide metabolism, nucleoside kinases recycle nucleosides into nucleotides—a process called nucleoside salvage. Nucleoside kinases for adenosine, uridine, and cytidine have been characterized from many organisms, but kinases for inosine and guanosine salvage are not yet known in eukaryotes and only a few such enzymes have been described from bacteria. Here we identified Arabidopsis thaliana PLASTID NUCLEOSIDE KINASE 1 (PNK1), an enzyme highly conserved in plants and green algae belonging to the Phosphofructokinase B family. We demonstrate that PNK1 from A. thaliana is located in plastids and catalyzes the phosphorylation of inosine, 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-d-ribose (AICA ribonucleoside), and uridine but not guanosine in vitro, and is involved in inosine salvage in vivo. PNK1 mutation leads to increased flux into purine nucleotide catabolism and, especially in the context of defective uridine degradation, to over-accumulation of uridine and UTP as well as growth depression. The data suggest that PNK1 is involved in feedback regulation of purine nucleotide biosynthesis and possibly also pyrimidine nucleotide biosynthesis. We additionally report that cold stress leads to accumulation of purine nucleotides, probably by inducing nucleotide biosynthesis, but that this adjustment of nucleotide homeostasis to environmental conditions is not controlled by PNK1.