bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rare Right Ventricular Obstructing Myxoma: An Incidental Finding for a Common Symptom
Authors: James Sunil , Livesey Emma , Ho Emily , Upadhyaya Subramanya
Published: December 2021

Background: Palpitations are a common clinical manifestation within the general population and are often associated with conduction abnormalities within the heart. Structural causes account for only 3% of palpitations. As such, they are often investigated with cardiac event/Holter monitoring. Presented here is a case of palpitations secondary to intracardiac mass.

Case summary: A 58-year-old female patient presented with palpitations. The electrocardiogram was unremarkable. Transthoracic echocardiography revealed a large, mobile mass visualised in the right ventricular outflow tract. Further investigations, including cardiac CT and cardiac MRI, confirmed a right ventricular myxoma, which was successfully surgically excised. There has been no evidence of recurrence or long-term morbidity.

Discussion: Myxomas are extremely rare and most commonly present with signs of heart failure, thromboembolic events, or constitutional symptoms. Palpitations are a usual presentation of cardiac masses. Myxomas carry a high risk of sudden death through thromboembolic events or dysrhythmias, therefore immediate intervention is essential. From the findings, patients presenting with palpitations are recommended to undergo a transthoracic echocardiogram to identify the possibility of palpitations secondary to structural variants or abnormalities.

Learning Points: If there are no haematological or biochemistry abnormalities, and no risk factors for palpitations were ascertained, patients presenting with palpitations should ideally have a transthoracic echocardiogram, in addition to Holter monitoring, to rule out a structural cause for their clinical manifestation. Structural abnormalities noticed on echocardiography are better characterised with cardiac MRI as it provides both structural and possible tissue characterisation.
Race Against Time: Addressing the Unmet Needs of Patients with HER2-Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Rygiel Katarzyna
Published: December 2021

Over the last 20 years, there has been remarkable progress in the development of the therapies for human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2)-positive breast cancer (BC). Targeted treatment agents, such as trastuzumab, pertuzumab, lapatinib, and trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1), are currently recommended as key components in the standard of care regimens for patients with HER2-positive BC. However, some patients still develop disease progression despite using such therapies. Since brain metastases present an urgent unmet need in many women with HER2-positive BC, clinical studies focussing on novel strategies in this field are a high priority.

This brief overview outlines some recent results from relevant clinical trials, such as HER2CLIMB, SOPHIA, and DESTINY-Breast01, in patients with HER2-positive metastatic BC, highlighting beneficial effects and safety issues of tucatinib, margetuximab, and trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd), respectively. New research directions for the applications of these medications in combination with established treatment regimens are outlined. This article presents some insights into the potential transformation of clinical management and provides reasonable hope and encouragement to both the afflicted patients and their treatment teams.
Oocyte Cryopreservation in Emergency Situations: Perspectives and Reality
Authors: Yurchuk Taisiia , Petrushko Maryna , Fuller Barry , Goltsev Anatoliy
Published: December 2021

Increased incidence of global recorded cancer, unforeseen circumstances in assisted reproductive technology, a pandemic situation, and surgical interventions which can cause impairment of the reproductive system all necessitate urgent fertility preservation. Unfortunately, the application of successfully developed methods for oocyte and embryo cryopreservation is not possible in some situations because of contraindications for inducing superovulation, inability to delay other treatments, or in the case of prepubertal patients; in these cases, cryopreservation of ovarian tissue may be an alternative method. Despite current achievements in ovarian tissue low-temperature preservation, only 130 children have been born using this method. Further development of this technique and methods for in vitro maturation of immature oocytes, following their cryopreservation and use in assisted reproductive technology, as well as a differentiated approach for the selection of mature oocytes obtained without preliminary superovulation are needed. This review outlines the modern achievements and future prospects of female fertility preservation in emergency situations by cryopreservation of oocytes with different quality and maturity states.
Diagnostic Criteria and Treatment Modalities of Ectopic Pregnancies: A Literature Review
Authors: Abdelazim Ibrahim A. , AbuFaza Mohannad , Shikanova Svetlana , Karimova Bakyt
Published: December 2021

Background: Ruptured ectopic or extrauterine pregnancy (EP) is responsible for 6% of maternal deaths in the first trimester. This review was designed to summarise the diagnostic criteria and treatment modalities of EPs. Methods: Recent guidelines of the international societies of obstetrics and gynaecology, including the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE), were reviewed to summarise the diagnostic criteria and treatment modalities of EPs. Results: A minimum β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) rise of ≥35% in 48 hours was suggested to diagnose intrauterine pregnancy. A β-hCG rise <35% in 48 hours has 96.2% positive predictive value, 69.7% negative predictive value, and 80.2% overall accuracy in predicting EPs. The blob sign has >90% positive predictive value in diagnosing EPs in symptomatic females with positive β-hCG and no definite intrauterine gestational sac by transvaginal sonography. The interstitial ectopic pregnancy and cornual pregnancy are two separate entities of EPs. Interstitial line sign has 80% sensitivity and 98% specificity in diagnosing interstitial ectopic pregnancy. A meta-analysis reported 89% overall success rate for methotrexate in treatment of EPs; the multi-dose regimen was significantly more successful than the single-dose regimen. Conclusion: Institutes and healthcare providers should follow clear guidelines and/or protocols for the management of EPs. Institutes should implement competency-directed training programmes to increase healthcare providers’ skills to diagnose and treat EP variants using different modalities.
Robotic Surgery and Its Application in Urology: A Journey Through Time
Authors: Zaman Mohammad Faruquz , Buchholz Noor , Bach Christian
Published: December 2021

Objectives: To evaluate an overview of the past, present, and future of robotic surgery. To provide insight and focus on the current status of the field of robotic systems for urological surgery with outcomes and discuss future perspectives in terms of other operative techniques and new robotic platforms.

Evidence acquisition: The authors undertook a non-systematic literature review using PubMed, Medline, and Google search. They used the search terms “robotic uro-surgery”, “laparoscopic”, “minimally invasive surgery”, “future of robotics”, “global robotic market growth”, “geographical distribution”, and “cost-effectiveness”.

Evidence synthesis: Robotic surgery has embraced and extended almost all aspects of uro-surgical fields since its introduction three decades ago. There are definite advantages of robots to the surgeons and patients. It has become new standard of care for many surgical procedures. Innovation and technological advances are continuing and new with more precise robots are emerging. The major downside is cost. Despite the high cost, robot market is growing.

Conclusion: Over the past decade, minimally invasive approaches have virtually revolutionised surgery and robotic surgery has accelerated these changes. Without doubt, robotic urologic surgery is here to stay and will expand further in all surgical disciplines. Utilisation of robotics should be coupled with a reduction in costs to healthcare systems, and improved clinical outcomes for the general population rather than a privileged few. Therefore, making this expensive technology more affordable must be part of the equation.
The Microbiota and Kidney Transplantation: Influence on the Graft
Authors: Salvadori Maurizio , Tsalouchos Aris
Published: December 2021

The gut microbial community may be associated with complications after kidney transplantation. The indigenous microbiota has a significant and protective function that influences the transplant recipient response. Genetic or environmental factors may modify the indigenous microbiota and pathobionts appear.

In this condition, several disturbances of the kidney graft may be observed. These include acute rejection, infection, diarrhoea, disturbance in the induction of tolerance, and modification of immunosuppressive drug metabolism.

Recently, the use of prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics has been demonstrated to be effective in normalising these conditions and in restoring the generation of the normal indigenous microbiota.

An improved understanding of the function and composition of the indigenous microbiota may help in finding further solutions to stabilise the microbiota after kidney transplantation.
Pattern Recognition on Vehicle Number Plates Using a Fast Match Algorithm
Authors: Jatmoko Cahaya , Sinaga Daurat , Sugiarto Edi , Rokhman Nur , Lestiawan Heru
Published: December 2021

Computer Vision was the fast developing apps in the world, it is make people make a lot of new algorithm. Before we can use in out app, we need to test the algorithm to make sure how effective and optimal the algorithm to solve every case we given. A lot of traffic system has implemented computer vision, they need fast and can work in every condition, because every vehicle who pass needs to be recognized. In this research Fast Match algorithm was chosen because they can solve some test and make a lot of image have a similarity with the template. It makes accuracy of the data can be achieved with this algorithm. For example on of the sample was have a SAD point for 0.5 and Overlap Error for 0.5 and can run in standard computer just for a couple second. It makes the template and the original image has a little similarity.
Faktor Pendukung Pendewasaaan Usia Perkawinan
Authors: Angraini Wulan , Amrullah Hilma , Febriawati Henni , Yanuarti Riska
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Maturity of age marriage (PUP) plays as an important role in implementation of population development and family planning programs that aimed in improving quality of life. The proportion of adolescents in Province Bengkulu who know about family development is still below national figure, which is only 61,67%. Purpose: it is known factor maturity age marriage in Province Bengkulu. Methods: Design research cross-sectional used secondary data from Performance Survey and Accountability Program (SKAP) in 2019. Research time July to December 2020. The research population who were successfully interviewed was 69,662 families. The sample research was coverage in Province Bengkulu were 341 people. Data analysis are univariable and bivariable chi-square.  Results: 71.6% of adolescents in Bengkulu Province plan to get married when they are 21 years old for women and 25 years for men. Gender is factor enabling that influences maturity of age marriage (p-value=0.013 OR: 1,89 CI 95%: 1,16-3,07). Residence of adolescents (p-value=0.374) and wealth index of adolescents (p value=0.491) did not have a significant relationship with maturity of age marriage of adolescent in Bengkulu Province. Conclusion: Understanding of the ideal age for marriage needs to be give early as possible to prevent child marriage. Interventions related to maturity age marriage in rural areas need to be increased for adolescents through PLB which is an extension of the BKKBN.
Pengaruh Pendampingan Terhadap Pengetahuan dan Keterampilan Kader Posyandu dalam Deteksi Dini Stunting
Authors: Sitorus Sony Bernike Magdalena , Ni Made Ridla Nilasanti Parwata  , Noya Fransisca
Published: December 2021

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis pengaruh pendampingan terhadap pengetahuan dan keterampilan kader dalam deteksi dini stunting pada baduta di Wilayah Kerja Puskesmas Malei Kecamatan Lage. Jenis penelitian ini adalah quasi experimen dengan menggunakan desain penelitian pre-eksperiment one group pretest-posttest. Populasi pada penelitian ini adalah seluruh kader posyandu balita yang tercatat di Wilayah kerja Puskesmas Malei Kecamatan Lage. Sampel pada penelitian ini sebanyak 30 kader, teknik pengambilan sampel dengan cara simpel random sampling. Hasil uji normalitas diperoleh data tidak berdistribusi normal, uji hipotesis menggunakan uji Wilcoxon. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa adanya peningkatan rerata skor pengetahuan kader sebelum diberikan pendampingan adalah 32,80 (SD=9,768), setelah diberikan pendampingan rerata skor pengetahuan adalah 87,10 (SD=5,677) dan rerata skor tindakan kader sebelum pendampingan 25,83 (SD=19,122), setelah dilakukan pendampingan berupa penyuluhan, demostrasi dan praktikum kepada kader rata-rata skor tindakan meningkat menjadi 79,17 (SD=9,476). Pada hasil uji statistik terdapat perbedaan secara bermakna sebelum dan sesudah diberikan intervensi dengan nilai 0,000, (p<0,05). Hal ini menunjukkan terdapat pengaruh pendampingan terhadap pengetahuan dan tindakan kader dalam deteksi dini stunting
Hubungan Lama Penggunaan Kontrasepsi Hormonal terhadap Skor Inner Scan Body Composition Monitor pada Wanita Usia Subur
Authors: Saleng Hasriani , Rahayu Eryanti K  , Sudirman Jumrah
Published: December 2021

Osteoporosis merupakan masalah kesehatan dunia dimana saat ini diderita oleh kelompok usia yang lebih muda. Kepadatan mineral tulang merupakan salah satu jenis parameter dalam mengukur status osteoporosis. Semakin rendah kepadatan mineral tulang maka semakin besar risiko osteoporosis. Salah satu faktor risiko rendahnya kepadatan mineral tulang adalah jenis dan lama penggunaan kontrasepsi hormonal. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui hubungan penggunaan kontrasepsi hormonal dengan skor Inner Scan Body Composition Monitor dalam kepadatan tulang wanita usia subur. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kuantitatif dengan desain cross sectional study, sampel penelitian 46 akseptor  dengan teknik sampling yaitu Purposive sampling. Analisis data menggunakan Mann Whitney. Hasil penelitian didapatkanhasil untuk Skor Inner Scan Body Composition Monitor pada akseptor baru dengan nilai mean±SD yaitu 2.1429 ± 0.45779 dan nilai min-max adalah 1.40 – 3.00. Sementara pada akseptor lama dengan nilai mean±SD yaitu 2.3840 ± 0.38479 dan nilai min-max adalah 1.50 - 3.20. Pada analisis Bivariat didapatkannilai p= 0.086> 0,05, hal ini menunjukkan tidak Ada hubungan antara lama penggunaan kontrasepsi hormonal dengan skor inner scan bodyatau kepadatan tulang pada akseptor kontrasepsi hormonal. Kesimpulan, lama penggunaan kontrasepsi hormonal tidak mempengaruhi skor Inner Scan Body Composition Monitor pada kepadatan tulang akseptor di Wilayah Kota Makassar
Potential Role of Plant Growth Regulators in Administering Crucial Processes Against Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Sabagh Ayman EL , Mbarki Sonia , Hossain Akbar , Iqbal Muhammad Aamir , Islam Mohammad Sohidul , Raza Ali , Llanes Analía , Reginato Mariana , Rahman Md Atikur , Mahboob Wajid , Singhal Rajesh Kumar , Kumari Arpna , Rajendran Karthika , Wasaya Allah , Javed Talha , Shabbir Rubab , Rahim Junaid , Barutçular Celaleddin , Habib Ur Rahman Muhammad , Raza Muhammad Ali , Ratnasekera Disna , Konuskan l Ömer , Hossain Mohammad Anwar , Meena Vijay Singh , Ahmed Sharif , Ahmad Zahoor , Mubeen Muhammad , Singh Kulvir , Skalicky Milan , Brestic Marian , Sytar Oksana , Karademir Emine , Karademir Cetin , Erman Murat , Farooq Muhammad
Published: December 2021

Plant growth regulators are naturally biosynthesized chemicals in plants that influence physiological processes. Their synthetic analogous trigger numerous biochemical and physiological processes involved in the growth and development of plants. Nowadays, due to changing climatic scenario, numerous biotic and abiotic stresses hamper seed germination, seedling growth, and plant development leading to a decline in biological and economic yields. However, plant growth regulators (PGRs) can potentially play a fundamental role in regulating plant responses to various abiotic stresses and hence, contribute to plant adaptation under adverse environments. The major effects of abiotic stresses are growth and yield disturbance, and both these effects are directly overseen by the PGRs. Different types of PGRs such as abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA), ethylene (ET), and jasmonates (JAs) are connected to boosting the response of plants to multiple stresses. In contrast, PGRs including cytokinins (CKs), gibberellins (GAs), auxin, and relatively novel PGRs such as strigolactones (SLs), and brassinosteroids (BRs) are involved in plant growth and development under normal and stressful environmental conditions. Besides, polyamines and nitric oxide (NO), although not considered as phytohormones, have been included in the current review due to their involvement in the regulation of several plant processes and stress responses. These PGRs are crucial for regulating stress adaptation through the modulates physiological, biochemical, and molecular processes and activation of the defense system, upregulating of transcript levels, transcription factors, metabolism genes, and stress proteins at cellular levels. The current review presents an acumen of the recent progress made on different PGRs to improve plant tolerance to abiotic stress such as heat, drought, salinity, and flood. Moreover, it highlights the research gaps on underlying mechanisms of PGRs biosynthesis under stressed conditions and their potential roles in imparting tolerance against adverse effects of suboptimal growth conditions.
Bamboo Shark as a Small Animal Model for Single Domain Antibody Production
Authors: Wei Likun , Wang Meiniang , Xiang Haitao , Jiang Yuan , Gong Jinhua , Su Dan , Al Azad M. A. R. , Dong Hongming , Feng Limin , Wu Jiajun , Chan Leo Lai , Yang Naibo , Shi Jiahai
Published: December 2021

The development of shark single domain antibodies (sdAbs) is hindered by the high cost and tediousness of large-sized shark farming. Here, we demonstrated white-spotted bamboo sharks (Chiloscyllium plagiosum) being cultivated commercially as a promising small animal model to produce sdAbs. We found that immunoglobulin new antigen receptor (IgNAR) presented in bamboo shark genome, transcriptome, and plasma. Four complete IgNAR clusters including variable domains (vNARs) were discovered in the germline, and the Variable–Joining pair from IgNAR1 cluster was dominant from immune repertoires in blood. Bamboo sharks developed effective immune responses upon green fluorescent protein (GFP), near-infrared fluorescent protein iRFP713, and Freund’s adjuvant immunization revealed by elevated lymphocyte counts and antigen specific IgNAR. Before and after immunization, the complementarity determining region 3 (CDR3) of IgNAR were the major determinant of IgNAR diversity revealed by 400-bp deep sequencing. To prove that bamboo sharks could produce high-affinity IgNAR, we isolated anti-GFP and anti-iRFP713 vNARs with up to 0.3 and 3.8 nM affinities, respectively, from immunized sharks. Moreover, we constructed biparatopic vNARs with the highest known affinities (20.7 pM) to GFP and validated the functions of anti-GFP vNARs as intrabodies in mammalian cells. Taken together, our study will accelerate the discovery and development of bamboo shark sdAbs for biomedical industry at low cost and easy operation.
Understanding 3D Genome Organization and Its Effect on Transcriptional Gene Regulation Under Environmental Stress in Plant: A Chromatin Perspective
Authors: Kumar Suresh , Kaur Simardeep , Seem Karishma , Kumar Santosh , Mohapatra Trilochan
Published: December 2021

The genome of a eukaryotic organism is comprised of a supra-molecular complex of chromatin fibers and intricately folded three-dimensional (3D) structures. Chromosomal interactions and topological changes in response to the developmental and/or environmental stimuli affect gene expression. Chromatin architecture plays important roles in DNA replication, gene expression, and genome integrity. Higher-order chromatin organizations like chromosome territories (CTs), A/B compartments, topologically associating domains (TADs), and chromatin loops vary among cells, tissues, and species depending on the developmental stage and/or environmental conditions (4D genomics). Every chromosome occupies a separate territory in the interphase nucleus and forms the top layer of hierarchical structure (CTs) in most of the eukaryotes. While the A and B compartments are associated with active (euchromatic) and inactive (heterochromatic) chromatin, respectively, having well-defined genomic/epigenomic features, TADs are the structural units of chromatin. Chromatin architecture like TADs as well as the local interactions between promoter and regulatory elements correlates with the chromatin activity, which alters during environmental stresses due to relocalization of the architectural proteins. Moreover, chromatin looping brings the gene and regulatory elements in close proximity for interactions. The intricate relationship between nucleotide sequence and chromatin architecture requires a more comprehensive understanding to unravel the genome organization and genetic plasticity. During the last decade, advances in chromatin conformation capture techniques for unravelling 3D genome organizations have improved our understanding of genome biology. However, the recent advances, such as Hi-C and ChIA-PET, have substantially increased the resolution, throughput as well our interest in analysing genome organizations. The present review provides an overview of the historical and contemporary perspectives of chromosome conformation capture technologies, their applications in functional genomics, and the constraints in predicting 3D genome organization. We also discuss the future perspectives of understanding high-order chromatin organizations in deciphering transcriptional regulation of gene expression under environmental stress (4D genomics). These might help design the climate-smart crop to meet the ever-growing demands of food, feed, and fodder.
Vascular Access Site Complications Do Not Correlate With Large Sheath Diameter in TAVI Procedures With New Generation Devices
Authors: Gonska Birgid , Reuter Christopher , Mörike Johannes , Rottbauer Wolfgang , Buckert Dominik
Published: December 2021

Background: Vascular complications after transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) are associated with morbidity and mortality. However, consistent predictors have not been identified yet. The size of the implantation sheath seems to play a role, though especially with new generation TAVI devices and their improved sheaths and delivery systems this remains uncertain.

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the incidence and predictors of access site-related vascular complications (VC) in the era of new generation TAVI devices.

Methods and Results: Four hundred consecutive patients receiving TAVI in an experienced tertiary care center were analyzed. VC occurred in 89 patients (22.25%) with the majority being minor VC (21%) and only 1.25% major VC. Possible predictors for VC were tested, and only peri-interventional dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) showed to be predictive for VC [OR 2.11 (95% CI 1.10–4.06, p = 0.025)]. The female gender [OR 0.75 (95% CI 0.44–1.3), p = 0.31], sheath to femoral artery ratio >1.05 [OR 1.18 (95% CI 0.66–2.08, p = 0.58)], calcification of the access site vessel [OR 0.83 (95% CI 0.48–1.42, p = 0.48)], known peripheral artery disease [OR 0.95 (95% CI 0.4–2.25, p = 0.9)], and BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2 [OR 0.69 (95% CI 0.41–1.19, p = 0–19)] were not predictive of VC. The larger sheath with 20 French even showed less VC than the smaller sheath with 16 French [OR 0.43 (95% CI 0.25–0.74, p = 0.002)].

Conclusions: Overall, the rate of major and minor VC was low in this study population (for major VC: rate of 1.25%). Predefined risk factors were not associated with the occurrence of VC, except for peri-interventional treatment with DAPT. Especially, larger sheath size could not be identified as a predictor for VC in the setting of TAVI procedures performed with contemporary devices.
Established Tumour Biomarkers Predict Cardiovascular Events and Mortality in the General Population
Authors: Bracun Valentina , Suthahar Navin , Shi Canxia , de Wit Sanne , Meijers Wouter C. , Klip IJsbrand T. , de Boer Rudolf A. , Aboumsallem Joseph Pierre
Published: December 2021

Introduction: Several lines of evidence reveal that cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer share similar common pathological milieus. The prevalence of the two diseases is growing as the population ages and the burden of shared risk factors increases. In this respect, we hypothesise that tumour biomarkers can be potential predictors of CVD outcomes in the general population.

Methods: We measured six tumour biomarkers (AFP, CA125, CA15-3, CA19-9, CEA and CYFRA 21-1) and determined their predictive value for CVD in the Prevention of Renal and Vascular End-stage Disease (PREVEND) study. A total of 8,592 subjects were enrolled in the study.

Results: The levels of CEA significantly predicted CV morbidity and mortality, with hazard ratios (HRs) of HR 1.28 (95% CI 1.08–1.53), respectively. Two biomarkers (CA15-3 and CEA) showed statistical significance in predicting all-cause mortality, with HRs 1.58 (95% CI 1.18–2.12) and HR 1.60 (95% CI 1.30–1.96), when adjusted for shared risk factors and prevalent CVD. Furthermore, biomarkers seem to be sex specific. CYFRA 21-1 presented as an independent predictor of CV morbidity and mortality in female, but not in male gender, with HR 1.82 (95% CI 1.40–2.35). When it comes to all-cause mortality, both CYFRA and CEA show statistical significance in male gender, with HR 1.64 (95% CI 1.28–3.12) and HR 1.55 (95% CI 1.18–2.02), while only CEA showed statistical significance in female gender, with HR 1.64 (95% CI 1.20–2.24). Lastly, CA15-3 and CEA strongly predicted CV mortality with HR 3.01 (95% CI 1.70–5.32) and HR 1.82 (95% CI 1.30–2.56). On another hand, CA 15-3 also presented as an independent predictor of heart failure (HF) with HR 1.67 (95% CI 1.15–2.42).

Conclusion: Several tumour biomarkers demonstrated independent prognostic value for CV events and all-cause mortality in a large cohort from the general population. These findings support the notion that CVD and cancer are associated with similar pathological milieus.
Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Hemodynamic Measures as Determinants of Increased Arterial Stiffness Following Surgical Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Plunde Oscar , Franco-Cereceda Anders , Bäck Magnus
Published: December 2021

Valvular and arterial function are tightly intertwined, both in terms of structural changes and hemodynamics. While proximal valvulo-vascular coupling contributes to the cardiovascular consequences of aortic stenosis, less is known on how peripheral arterial stiffness relates to aortic valve disease. Previous studies have shown conflicting results regarding the impact of aortic valve replacement on arterial stiffness. The aim of the present study was therefore to determine predictors of arterial stiffness in patients with and without aortic valve disease undergoing cardiac surgery. Cardio ankle vascular index (CAVI) and carotid femoral pulse wave velocity (cfPWV) were measured to determine arterial stiffness the day before and 3 days after surgery for either ascending aortic or aortic valve disease. Stratification on indication for surgery revealed that CAVI was significantly lower in patients with aortic valve stenosis (n = 45) and aortic valve regurgitation (n=30) compared with those with isolated ascending aortic dilatation (n = 13). After surgery, a significant increased CAVI was observed in aortic stenosis (median 1.34, IQR 0.74–2.26, p < 0.001) and regurgitation (median 1.04, IQR 0.01–1.49, p = 0.003) patients while cfPWV was not significantly changed. Age, diabetes, low body mass index, low pre-operative CAVI, as well as changes in ejection time were independently associated with increased CAVI after surgery. The results of the present study suggest aortic valve disease as cause of underestimation of arterial stiffness when including peripheral segments. We report cardiovascular risk factors and pinpoint the hemodynamic aspect ejection time to be associated with increased CAVI after aortic valve surgery.
Numerical Investigation on Fracture Mechanisms and Energy Evolution Characteristics of Columnar Jointed Basalts With Different Model Boundaries and Confining Pressures
Authors: Wang Yongyi , Gong Bin , Tang Chun’an
Published: December 2021

To reveal the mechanical mechanisms and energy release characteristics underlying progressive failure of columnar jointed basalts (CJBs) with various model boundaries and confining pressures, by combining the meso-damage mechanics, statistical strength theory, and continuum mechanics, inhomogeneous CJB models with different dip angles to the column axis are constructed. In the cases of plane stress, plane strain, and between plane stress and plane strain, the gradual fracture processes of CJBs are simulated under different confining pressures and the acoustic emission (AE) rules are obtained. The results show that: 1) in the case of plane stress, the fracture process of CJBs along direction I orthogonal to the column axis: at the initial stage of loading, the vertical joints and the transverse joints in the CJB specimen are damaged. Then, more columns in the upper middle part are cracked; 2) in the case between plane stress and plane strain, the fracture process of CJBs along the direction parallel to the column axis: at the initial stage of loading, the columnar joints are damaged. Then, the area of the damaged and broken columns at the top of the specimen increases and the crushing degree intensifies; 3) for the case between plane stress and plane strain, the AE energy accumulation before the peak stress is higher than the plane strain state along the direction orthogonal to the column axis. Meanwhile, along the direction parallel to the column axis, this value becomes larger when changing from the state between plane stress and plane strain to the plane strain state. These achievements will certainly improve our understanding of the fracture mechanism and energy evolution of CJBs and provide valuable insights into the instability precursor of CJBs.
Quantifying the Geomorphology of the Drainage Basins Along the Greater Khingan Mountains in NE China
Authors: Lin Lingling , Li Xuemei , Ma Zifa
Published: December 2021

Drainage basins are fundamental elements of the earth’s surface, and quantifying their geomorphic features is essential to understand the interaction between tectonics, climatic, and surface processes. In this study, 40 basins of the Greater Khingan Mountains were selected for hypsometric analysis using a 90-m Shuttle Radar Topography Mission digital elevation model. The hypsometric integral values range from 0.13 to 0.44, with an average value of 0.30, and most hypsometric curves exhibit remarkable downward concave shapes. This feature indicates that most drainage basins and the landscape of the Greater Khingan Mountains are approaching the old-age development stage, consistent with the present moderately stable tectonic activity. The spatial distribution of the χ values is characterized by unambiguously higher values on the western flank than those on the eastern flank in the middle and southern segments of the Greater Khingan Mountains. We interpret this as an indicator of the disequilibrium across the main divide. The interpolation of the erosion rates and channel steepness for the catchments on both sides of the Greater Khingan Mountains revealed westward divide migration, which is consistent with the lower χ values, a higher slope, and local relief observed along the eastern flanks. Considering the long-term tectonic evolution pattern between the Greater Khingan Mountains and Songliao Basin, the landscape decay and slow westward divide migration were mostly driven by the inherited Cenozoic tectonics and precipitation gradient across East Asia.
Causal Associations of Obesity With the Intervertebral Degeneration, Low Back Pain, and Sciatica: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Zhou Jingzhu , Mi Jiarui , Peng Yu , Han Huirong , Liu Zhengye
Published: December 2021

The role of obesity in the development of dorsopathies is still unclear. In this study, we assessed the associations between body mass index (BMI) and several dorsopathies including intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), low back pain (LBP), and sciatica by using the Mendelian randomization method. We also assessed the effect of several obesity-related traits on the same outcomes. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with the exposures are extracted from summary-level datasets of previously published genome-wide association studies. Summary-level results of IVDD, LBP, and sciatica were from FinnGen. In our univariable Mendelian randomization analysis, BMI is significantly associated with increased risks of all dorsopathies including sciatica (OR = 1.33, 95% CI, 1.21–1.47, p = 5.19 × 10-9), LBP (OR = 1.28, 95% CI, 1.18–1.39, p = 6.60 × 10-9), and IVDD (OR = 1.23, 95% CI, 1.14–1.32, p = 2.48 × 10-8). Waist circumference, hip circumference, whole-body fat mass, fat-free mass, and fat percentage, but not waist–hip ratio, were causally associated with increased risks of IVDD and sciatica. Higher hip circumference, whole-body fat mass, fat-free mass, and fat percentage increased the risk of LBP. However, only whole-body fat-free mass remained to have a significant association with the risk of IVDD after adjusting for BMI with an odds ratio of 1.57 (95% CI, 1.32–1.86, p = 2.47 × 10-7). Proportions of BMI’s effect on IVDD, sciatica, and LBP mediated by leisure sedentary behavior were 41.4% (95% CI, 21.8%, 64.8%), 33.8% (95% CI, 17.5%, 53.4%), and 49.7% (95% CI, 29.4%, 73.5%), respectively. This study provides evidence that high BMI has causal associations with risks of various dorsopathies. Weight control is a good measure to prevent the development of dorsopathies, especially in the obese population.
Scheme Design and Data Analysis of Critical Physical Experiment for Hexagonal Casing Type Fuel Reactor
Authors: Lianjie Wang , Yanqin Wei , Lei Lou , Shien Huang
Published: December 2021

Based on the requirement of Hexagonal Casing Type Fuel Reactor (HCTFR) nuclear design and the critical physical experiment design method introduced by a single factor, 11 core critical physical experiments are proposed to validate the calculation accuracy and reliability of the nuclear design code CPLEV2. The experiment loading scheme fully takes into account the various components and more than one irradiate hole in the HCTFR core, which is used as critical physical experiment schemes successfully. According to the critical physical experiment data, the reactivity calculation deviations of all critical physical experiments are within ±1.0%. The validation results show that the nuclear design code CPLEV2 has high calculation accuracy and reliability for the core of hexagonal casing type fuel, and it can be used for HCTFR nuclear design.
A New Numerical Nuclear Reactor Neutronics Code SHARK
Authors: Zhao Chen , Peng Xingjie , Zhang Hongbo , Zhao Wenbo , Chen Zhang , Rao Junjie , Liu Kun , Gong Zhaohu , Zeng Wei , Li Qing
Published: December 2021

In order to establish the next-generation reactor physics calculation method based on the numerical nuclear reactor technology and realize high-fidelity modeling and calculation, a new numerical nuclear reactor neutronics code SHARK is developed. The code is based on the direct transport method with construct solid geometry (CSG) method, advanced subgroup resonance method, direct transport MOC method in rectangle and hexagonal geometry, large-scale parallel, and CMFD acceleration method. The C5G7, macro BEAVRS and VERA benchmarks are verified to show the accuracy of the code and method. Numerical results show good accuracy and calculation performance of SHARK, and the direct transport method can be adopted on numerical nuclear reactor calculation.
No Difference in Instream Decomposition Among Upland Agricultural and Forested Streams in Kenya
Authors: Kadeka Ellen C. , Masese Frank O. , Lusega David M. , Sitati Augustine , Kondowe Benjamin N. , Chirwa Elias R.
Published: December 2021

Expansion of agriculture is particularly worrying in tropical regions of the world, where native forests have been replaced by croplands and grasslands, with severe consequences for biodiversity conservation and ecosystem functioning. However, limited data exist on the effects of agriculture on the functioning of tropical streams. We conducted a leaf litter decomposition experiment in coarse- and fine-mesh litterbags using the three species of leaves (Eucalyptus globulus [non-native], Vernonia myriantha, and Syzygium cordatum [indigenous]) in three forested and agricultural streams to determine the effect of agriculture on instream leaf litter decomposition in headwater stream sites. We also examined the functional composition of macroinvertebrates in the streams through the contents of benthic kick samples. Agricultural streams had a less dense riparian canopy and smaller abundance of coarse organic particulate matter, and higher electric conductivity and suspended solids than forested streams. In terms of the effects of litter quality on decomposition rates, Vernonia had the fastest decomposition rates while Eucalyptus had the slowest in both forested and agricultural sites. Shredder invertebrates were less abundant in agricultural streams, and in both stream types, they were less diverse and abundant than other functional groups. Overall, leaf litter decomposition rates did not respond to agricultural land-use. The hypothesized negative effects of agriculture on organic matter processing were minimal and likely modulated by intact riparian zones along agricultural streams.
Resurrection of the Family Grateloupiaceae Emend. (Halymeniales, Rhodophyta) Based on a Multigene Phylogeny and Comparative Reproductive Morphology
Authors: Kim Su Yeon , Lee Hyung Woo , Yang Eun Chan , Boo Sung Min , Lopez-Bautista Juan , Fredericq Suzanne , D’Archino Roberta , Yoon Hwan Su , Kim Myung Sook
Published: December 2021

The marine red algal order Halymeniales currently includes two families, the Halymeniaceae and Tsengiaceae, and consist of 38 genera and about 358 species. Phylogenetic analyses on specific taxa of the order are common, but not comprehensive, leaving the many intra-ordinal relationships within the Halymeniales unresolved. To reassess the phylogeny of the Halymeniales, we conducted extensive phylogenetic analyses based on 207 rbcL sequences and multigene analyses (rbcL, psaA, psbA, cox1, and LSU) using 47 taxa from the order. The combined data set fully supports the monophyly of the Grateloupia sensu lato clade. Phylogenetic assessment of the reproductive structures in the order using the type of auxiliary cell ampullae, pericarp origin, and tetrasporangial development characters, supports a Grateloupia sensu lato clade distinct from the Halymeniaceae exemplified by the generitype Halymenia. As a result, we propose to reinstate the family Grateloupiaceae Schmitz based on the Grateloupia sensu lato clade and including Grateloupia and eight other genera: Dermocorynus, Mariaramirezia, Neorubra, Pachymeniopsis, Kintokiocolax, Phyllymenia, Prionitis, and Yonagunia. The emended Grateloupiaceae is distinguished from the Halymeniaceae by the following three characteristics; (i) simple unbranched and unilateral type of auxiliary cell ampullae, (ii) pericarp formed densely by the fusion of secondary medullary filaments from subcortical cells and lateral ampullary filaments from a fusion cell complex, (iii) tetrasporangia originating laterally from the outer cortex. The Halymeniales comprises the monophyletic Grateloupiaceae, Halymeniaceae sensu lato (which requires further study), and the Tsengiaceae.
Transcriptome Analysis Reveals Genes Associated With Sexual Dichromatism of Head Feather Color in Mallard
Authors: Ma Shengchao , Liu Hehe , Wang Jianmei , Wang Lei , Xi Yang , Liu Yisi , Xu Qian , Hu Jiwei , Han Chunchun , Bai Lili , Li Liang , Wang Jiwen
Published: December 2021

Sexual dimorphism of feather color is typical in mallards, in which drakes exhibit green head feathers, while females show dull head feather color. We showed that more melanosomes deposited in the males’ head’s feather barbules than females and further form a two-dimensional hexagonal lattice, which conferred the green feather coloration of drakes. Additionally, transcriptome analysis revealed that some essential melanin biosynthesis genes were highly expressed in feather follicles during the development of green feathers, contributing to melanin deposition. We further identified 18 candidate differentially expressed genes, which may affect the sharp color differences between the males’ head feathers, back feathers, and the females’ head feathers.TYRandTYRP1genes are associated with melanin biosynthesis directly. Their expressions in the males’ head feather follicles were significantly higher than those in the back feather follicles and females’ head feather follicles. Most clearly, the expression ofTYRP1was 256 and 32 times higher in the head follicles of males than in those of the female head and the male back, respectively. Hence,TYRandTYRP1are probably the most critical candidate genes in DEGs. They may affect the sexual dimorphism of head feather color bycis-regulation of some transcription factors and the Z-chromosome dosage effect.
Unraveling Admixture, Inbreeding, and Recent Selection Signatures in West African Indigenous Cattle Populations in Benin
Authors: Vanvanhossou Sèyi Fridaïus Ulrich , Yin Tong , Scheper Carsten , Fries Ruedi , Dossa Luc Hippolyte , König Sven
Published: December 2021

The Dwarf Lagune and the Savannah Somba cattle in Benin are typical representatives of the endangered West African indigenous Shorthorn taurine. The Lagune was previously exported to African and European countries and bred as Dahomey cattle, whereas the Somba contributed to the formation of two indigenous hybrids known as Borgou and Pabli cattle. These breeds are affected by demographic, economic, and environmental pressures in local production systems. Considering current and historical genomic data, we applied a formal test of admixture, estimated admixture proportions, and computed genomic inbreeding coefficients to characterize the five breeds. Subsequently, we unraveled the most recent selection signatures using the cross-population extended haplotype homozygosity approach, based on the current and historical genotypes. Results from principal component analyses and high proportion of Lagune ancestry confirm the Lagune origin of the European Dahomey cattle. Moreover, the Dahomey cattle displayed neither indicine nor European taurine (EUT) background, but they shared on average 40% of autozygosity from common ancestors, dated approximately eight generations ago. The Lagune cattle presented inbreeding coefficients larger than 0.13; however, the Somba and the hybrids (Borgou and Pabli) were less inbred (≤0.08). We detected evidence of admixture in the Somba and Lagune cattle, but they exhibited a similar African taurine (AFT) ancestral proportion (≥96%) to historical populations, respectively. A moderate and stable AFT ancestral proportion (62%) was also inferred for less admixed hybrid cattle including the Pabli. In contrast, the current Borgou samples displayed a lower AFT ancestral proportion (47%) than historical samples (63%). Irrespective of the admixture proportions, the hybrid populations displayed more selection signatures related to economic traits (reproduction, growth, and milk) than the taurine. In contrast, the taurine, especially the Somba, presented several regions known to be associated with adaptive traits (immunity and feed efficiency). The identified subregion of bovine leukocyte antigen (BoLA) class IIb (including DSB and BOLA-DYA) in Somba cattle is interestingly uncommon in other African breeds, suggesting further investigations to understand its association with specific adaptation to endemic diseases in Benin. Overall, our study provides deeper insights into recent evolutionary processes in the Beninese indigenous cattle and their aptitude for conservation and genetic improvement.
Fatal Neonatal DOLK-CDG as a Rare Form of Syndromic Ichthyosis
Authors: Komlosi Katalin , Claris Olivier , Collardeau-Frachon Sophie , Kopp Julia , Hausser Ingrid , Mazereeuw-Hautier Juliette , Jonca Nathalie , Zimmer Andreas D. , Sanlaville Damien , Fischer Judith
Published: December 2021

Neonatal collodion baby or ichthyosis can pose a diagnostic challenge, and in many cases, only additional organ involvement or the course of the disease will help differentiate between non-syndromic and syndromic forms. Skin abnormalities are described in about 20% of the congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG). Among those, some rare CDG forms constitute a special group among the syndromic ichthyoses and can initially misdirect the diagnosis towards non-syndromic genodermatosis. DOLK-CDG is such a rare subtype, resulting from a defect in dolichol kinase, in which the congenital skin phenotype (often ichthyosis) is later associated with variable extracutaneous features such as dilatative cardiomyopathy, epilepsy, microcephaly, visual impairment, and hypoglycemia and may lead to a fatal course. We report two neonatal cases of lethal ichthyosis from the same family, with distal digital constrictions and a progressive course leading to multi-organ failure and death. Postmortem trio whole-exome sequencing revealed the compound heterozygous variants NM_014908.3: c.1342G>A, p.(Gly448Arg) and NM_014908.3: c.1558A>G, p.(Thr520Ala) in the DOLK gene in the first affected child, which were confirmed in the affected sibling. Reduced staining with anti-α-Dystroglycan antibody was observed in frozen heart tissue of the second child as an expression of reduced O-mannosylation due to the dolichol kinase deficiency. In addition to the detailed dermatopathological changes, both cases presented hepatic and extrahepatic hemosiderosis on histological examination. Our patients represent an early and fatal form of DOLK-CDG with a striking presentation at birth resembling severe collodion baby. Both cases emphasize the phenotypic variability of glycosylation disorders and the importance to broaden the differential diagnosis of ichthyosis and to actively search for organ involvement in neonates with ichthyosis.