bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling and forecasting the probability of the states of technical support systems for the use of weapons and military equipment
Authors: Ugol’nikov A. , Demianchuk B. , Shelukhin S. , Malynovskyi O. , Kosenko A.
Published: December 2021

The article discusses a probabilistic model of processes in complex systems of technical support for military vehicles. One of the methods for studying such complex systems is their representation in the form of a set of typical states in which the system can be. Transitions occur between states, the intensities and probabilities of which are assumed to be known. The system is graphically represented using a graph of states and transitions, and the subject of research is the probability of finding the technical support system in these states. The graph of states and transitions is associated with a system of first order linear differential equations with respect to the probabilities of finding the support system in its basic states. To obtain a solution, this system must be supplemented with certain conditions. These are, firstly, the initial conditions that specify the probabilities of all states at the initial moment of time. Second, this is the normalization condition, which states that at any moment in time the sum of the probabilities of all states is equal to unity. An approximate solution to the problem is described in the literature. Such approximate solution is getting more accurate when the sought probabilities depend on time weaker. We propose a method of the exact solution of the above mentioned system of differential equations based on the use of operational calculus. In this case, the system of linear differential equations is transformed into a system of linear algebraic equations for the Laplace images of unknown probabilities. The use of matrix calculus made it possible to write down the obtained results in a compact form and to use effective numerical algorithms of linear algebra for further calculations. The model is illustrated by the example of solving the problem of technical support for the march of a battalion tactical group column, including wheeled and tracked vehicles. The boundaries of the validity of the results of a simpler approximate solution are established.
Comunicación Horizontal: Identificación de la Demanda Social de Tecnología Agropecuaria en el Altiplano Peruano, Puno
Authors: Chaiña-Chura Fermin Francisco , Salas-Avila Dante , Hermoza-Gutierrez Marian , Salas-Mercado Dante , Quispe-Borda Wenceslao
Published: December 2021

El objetivo de la investigación es identificar la demanda social de tecnología agropecuaria en el altiplano peruano como base para un proceso de comunicación horizontal: caso Centro Poblado de Santa Bárbara de Moro, en el departamento de Puno. Aplicando el método cuantitativo-no experimental, se encuestó a 80 jefes de familia para analizar la relación de 10 variables socioeconómicas con las demandas de tecnología agropecuaria. La actividad principal de los actores productivos es la crianza de ganado vacuno, cuyas demandas son predominantes con mayor incidencia en la implementación de cobertizos, sanidad animal, establos, máquinas ordeñadoras, entre otros; de igual forma, para el desarrollo de la pequeña agricultura, se evidenció la necesidad de adquisición de maquinaria agrícola y riego tecnificado. El estado civil, la actividad principal y la tenencia de ganado vacuno están altamente asociados a la demanda de tecnología al 99% (p-valor < 0.01), mientras que el nivel de escolaridad tiene una significancia del 95% (p-valor < 0.05). En conclusión, el estudio demuestra la importancia de la fase de identificación de la demanda de tecnología agropecuaria a partir de la comunicación horizontal, que contribuye al fortalecimiento de las actividades agroalimentarias.
Учет пластических деформаций при расчете фланцевых соединений
Authors: ВЕДЯКОВ Иван Иванович , КОНИН Денис Вячеславович , ОЛУРОМБИ Александр Ричардович , НАХВАЛЬНОВ Павел Викторович
Published: December 2021

В связи с большим количеством исходных данных, расчет фланцевых болтовых соединений балок с колоннами - достаточно сложная задача. Известные расчетные методики фаланцевых соединений не являются универсальными, поэтому использовать их можно только для тех сортаментов и диапазонов профилей, для которых они были разработаны. Установлено, что расчетная методика евронорм для массивных профилей в некоторых комбинациях профилей балок и колонн показывает существенные превышения несущей способности по предельному моменту в сравнении с конечно-элементным расчетом. Кроме того, данные методы расчета не учитывают жесткость колонны при расчете фланца и жесткость фланца при расчете отгиба полки колонны. Создан универсальный прототип восьмиболтового соединения балки с колонной, который можно применить практически для любой комбинации профилеразмеров. По результатам расчетов конечно-элементных моделей болтовых соединений установлены критерии предельных состояний фланцевого соединения - по пластическим деформациями во фланце, полке и стенке колонны, напряжению в болтах, раскрытию зазора между фланцем и колонной. Предложен модифицированный метод аналитического расчета соединения, который учитывает соотношение толщины полки колонны и фланца. В дальнейшем на основе дополнительных теоретических изысканий данная методика будет уточняться, однако уже сейчас ее можно рекомендовать в качестве проверки несущей способности соединений с гибким фланцем.
Вероятностный подход к оценке риска прогрессирующего обрушения
Authors: ВЕДЯКОВ Иван Иванович , СОЛОВЬЕВ Дмитрий Валерьевич , КОВАЛЕНКО Алексей Игоревич
Published: December 2021

Необходимость учета возникновения аварийных ситуаций в опорных конструкциях строительных объектов при неустановленных особых воздействиях обусловлена требованиями федерального закона по механической безопасности строительных объектов. Существующий нормативный подход зачастую препятствует решению задач по модернизации и реконструкции производств, реализации современных уникальных архитектурных концепций и не позволяет учитывать вклад превентивных проектных мероприятий в надежность конструкции. Для формирования системы нормативных документов следует разработать методику оценки риска отказа строительных конструкций, в том числе при особых воздействиях. В статье рассмотрена балльная система определения риска отказа конструкции, учитывающая особенности различных конструктивных схем зданий, возможность возникновения ряда негативных событий. Предложено вероятность и последствия негативного события оценивать комплексно как расчетным методом, так и экспертной оценкой в баллах для принятия наиболее правильного и приближенного к реальности инженерного подхода к оценке риска. Кроме того, проведена параллель между существующими подходами в теории вероятностей, позволяющая в перспективе подготовить математическое обоснование применяемой балльной системы.
Термомеханическая обработка высокопрочного толстолистового проката в условиях металлургического комплекса стан-5000
Authors: ГОЛОВИН Сергей Викторович , КРАВЧЕНКО Артем Геннадьевич , ДРЕМОВ Виталий Петрович
Published: December 2021

Рассмотрены практические результаты производства толстолистового проката повышенной и высокой прочности в состоянии после термомеханической обработки в условиях металлургического комплекса стан-5000 листопрокатного цеха Выксунского металлургического завода. Отмечены особенности современной технологии термомеханической обработки толстолистового проката и ее преимущества перед классическими технологиями термического улучшения. Изложены концепции химического состава и сравнительный анализ с базовыми требованиями технической документации. Особое внимание уделено изменению механических свойств по толщине стальных плит и результатам оптимизации характеристик. Представлены результаты испытаний на свариваемость проката из стали в соответствии с процедурой евронорм. Выполнен анализ комплекса свойств листового проката из низколегированной стали после термомеханической обработки, а также более дорогостоящего листового проката из марок стали, легированных никелем и хромом, после закалки с высоким отпуском. Результаты исследований подтверждают эффективность технологии термомеханической обработки высокопрочного листового проката в части обеспечения комплекса технических, технологических и специальных характеристик в сравнении с дорогостоящими процессами термического улучшения.
Автоматизационные процессы для оформления исполнительной документации
Authors: СУББОТИН Артем Сергеевич , ЖАРКОВА Диана Валерьевна
Published: December 2021

Рассмотрен вопрос автоматизации исполнительной документации в промышленном и гражданском строительстве. Цифровизация исполнительно-технической документации - это инновация, которая положительно повлияет на строительный процесс. Применение цифрового программного обеспечения не только повысит эффективность ведения исполнительной документации, но и поможет решению экологических проблем, так как значительно сократится использование бумажных носителей. Перечислены основные составляющие исполнительной документации. Приведены примеры уже существующих за рубежом программных комплексов, которые значительно облегчают работу над исполнительной документацией. Продемонстрирована инновационная программа, созданная для организации строительного процесса в России. Показаны положительные изменения, которые могут произойти в строительном процессе при полной его автоматизации.
Динамика значений показателей градостроительного развития Москвы и их прогноз
Authors: ХОРКИНА Жанна Александровна , БОГДАНОВА Юлия Николаевна , ИВАНОВА Ольга Андреевна
Published: December 2021

Анализ динамики значений показателей градостроительного развития Москвы ежегодно осуществляется специалистами Научно-проектного центра "Развитие города" начиная с 2015 г. В статье рассмотрены результаты исследований за 2017-2020 гг. и прогноз динамики значений показателей до 2024 г. включительно. Представлен перечень территорий с устойчиво низкими и высокими значениями показателей, фактически достигнутыми за последние четыре года, а также прогнозными в 2021-2024 гг. Кроме того, дан прогноз динамики значений показателей градостроительного развития с учетом выявленных изменений за ретроспективный период. В результате исследования сформирован перечень территорий, которые потребуют особого внимания при формировании и реализации мероприятий градостроительного развития Москвы. Практическая значимость работы заключается в том, что оценка и прогнозирование изменений градостроительных процессов позволяют выявить муниципальные образования, требующие повышенного внимания в ближайшие годы, а также своевременно скорректировать планы по их развитию на более отдаленную перспективу.
Внедрение системы мониторинга реализации крупных городских проектов
Authors: ПАРХОМЕНКО Мария Игоревна , ЧЕБОТАЕВА Екатерина Вячеславовна , КУПРЯКОВ Александр Евгеньевич
Published: December 2021

Градостроительная реорганизация и развитие территорий сложившейся жилой застройки на территории столицы осуществляется в рамках реализации Программы реновации жилищного фонда в городе Москве. Эти мероприятия направлены на обновление среды жизнедеятельности и создание благоприятных условий проживания граждан, обеспечение развития жилых территорий и их благоустройства. Целью исследований стала разработка методики подготовки совмещенных графиков переселения по районам реновации согласно проекту планировки территории на основе информации о сроках и объемах строительства объектов жилого и нежилого фонда, а также предложений по корректировке планов реализации программы с указанием сроков и очередности выполнения для координации работ. Представлена методика мониторинга реализации программы реновации, основанная на принципах календарного планирования и позволяющая устанавливать связи между различными ее элементами и территориальными единицами: от "стартового" дома в квартале реновации (площадки) до реализации программы по городу в целом. Это дает возможность сформировать единый подход к планированию и управлению реализацией программы реновации. Возможности представленной методики проиллюстрированы на примере Москвы в приложении к районам реновации в ходе разработки и реализации проектов планировки территорий.
Технология Qlik Sense для координации развития транспортной инфраструктуры
Authors: СУРИН Григорий Дмитриевич , КОЗЛОВ Кирилл Владимирович , ДЕМИН Вадим Дмитриевич , АРЕНДАРЧУК Александр Викторович
Published: December 2021

В настоящее время одна из важнейших задач для Москвы - увязка программы по развитию транспортной инфраструктуры со строительством объектов жилого и нежилого назначения по иным городским программам. Решение данной задачи обеспечивается использованием соответствующих инструментов планирования и координации градостроительной деятельности. В числе таких инструментов - разрабатываемая Научно-проектным центром "Развитие города" укрупненная сетевая модель, которая определяет последовательность и взаимосвязь между этапами выполнения работ по развитию транспортной инфраструктуры и территорий Москвы во времени, одновременно увязывая проекты планировки территории линейных объектов, транспортно-пересадочных узлов, жилых и нежилых объектов капитального строительства, планы реализации проектов транспортной инфраструктуры. В статье показано, как можно наглядно представить результаты применения данной модели с помощью технологии Qlik Sense и тем самым повысить эффективность ее использования в градостроительной практике. Визуализация данных посредством этой технологии позволит выявлять территории с напряженной транспортной ситуацией, заблаговременно определять первоочередные мероприятия по развитию транспортной инфраструктуры, формировать перечни объектов для включения в Адресную инвестиционную программу Москвы и др.
DEVLET DENETLEME KURULUNUN İDARİ TEŞKİLAT ÜZERİNDE ETKİNLİĞİ HAKKINDA: RAPORLARININ İCRAİLİĞİ
Authors: MUTLU Azer Ebru , ERDEM Fazıl Hüsnü
Published: December 2021

Devlet Denetleme Kurulu, 6771 sayılı Anayasa Değişikliği Kanunu sonrasında 5 sayılı Cumhurbaşkanlığı Kararnamesi ile düzenlenmiştir. Soruşturma görev ve yetkisi de tanınan Kurul, soruşturma ve ivedi durum raporları hazırlayabilir. Kurulun raporlarının icrailiği, geçmişten günümüze tartışılagelmiştir. Cumhurbaşkanının doğrudan talimatıyla harekete geçen Kurulun, yardımcı kurum olarak yaptığı işlem ve eylemler ve hazırladığı raporlar, hazırlık işlemi sayılmaktadır. Hazırlık işlemleri, kesin ve yürütülebilir olmadıklarından icrai değillerdir. Ancak, Kurulun, soruşturma ve ivedi durum raporlarında alabileceği bazı tedbirler vardır. Bu tedbirlerden biri açıkça 5 sayılı Kararnamede düzenlenen görevden uzaklaştırma tedbiridir. Bu tedbirler, icraidir, dava konusu edilebilirler. Ayrıca bu tedbirler ve icrai olması durumu Kurul için büyük bir yeniliktir
Türkiye’de yetişen bazı ağaç türlerine ait odunlarda shore D sertlik değerleri üzerine ısıl işlemin etkisi
Authors: TÜRK Mutlu , AYATA Ümit
Published: December 2021

Günümüzde, çeşitli ülkelerde farklı yöntemler kullanılarak yapılan patentli ısıl işlem metotları bulunmaktadır. Bu metotlardan bir tanesi de, ThermoWood metodu olmaktadır. Isıl işlem ile ahşabın yapısının değişmesi ile ahşabın sahip olduğu birçok özelliğinin de (mekanik, fiziksel, kimyasal, biyolojik, vb.) buna sebep olarak değiştiği bilinen bir gerçektir. Bu özelliklerin başında sertlik kavramı ahşap için önemli bir konuya vurgu yapmaktadır. Bu çalışmada, akçaağaç, adi kızılağaç, üvez, kestane, adi gürgen, Uludağ göknarı, söğüt, ıstranca meşesi ve dişbudak odunlarının ThermoWood metoduna göre 212oC’de 1 ve 2 saat süreleri ile ısıl işlem sonralarında ve öncesinde meydana gelen shore D sertlik değerleri araştırılmıştır. Araştırma sonuçlarına göre, varyans analizi sonuçları anlamlı olarak elde edilmiştir. Ağaç türleri arasında en yüksek azalma oranı 212oC’de 2 saat süre ile ısıl işlem görmüş Uludağ göknarında elde edilirken, en düşük 212oC’de 1 saat süre ile ısıl işlem adi gürgen odununda belirlenmiştir. Bütün ağaç türlerinde ısıl işlem ile sertlik değerlerinin azaldığı belirlenmiştir. Buna ek olarak, ısıl işlem süresinin de artması ile sonuçların azaldığını göstermiştir.
Kernel Distance Measures for Time Series, Random Fields and Other Structured Data
Authors: Das Srinjoy , Mhaskar Hrushikesh N. , Cloninger Alexander
Published: December 2021

This paper introduces kdiff, a novel kernel-based measure for estimating distances between instances of time series, random fields and other forms of structured data. This measure is based on the idea of matching distributions that only overlap over a portion of their region of support. Our proposed measure is inspired by MPdist which has been previously proposed for such datasets and is constructed using Euclidean metrics, whereas kdiff is constructed using non-linear kernel distances. Also, kdiff accounts for both self and cross similarities across the instances and is defined using a lower quantile of the distance distribution. Comparing the cross similarity to self similarity allows for measures of similarity that are more robust to noise and partial occlusions of the relevant signals. Our proposed measure kdiff is a more general form of the well known kernel-based Maximum Mean Discrepancy distance estimated over the embeddings. Some theoretical results are provided for separability conditions using kdiff as a distance measure for clustering and classification problems where the embedding distributions can be modeled as two component mixtures. Applications are demonstrated for clustering of synthetic and real-life time series and image data, and the performance of kdiff is compared to competing distance measures for clustering.
Assessment of Stability of MIMU Probes to Skin-Marker-Based Anatomical Reference Frames During Locomotion Tasks: Effect of Different Locations on the Lower Limb
Authors: Scalera Giovanni Marco , Ferrarin Maurizio , Marzegan Alberto , Rabuffetti Marco
Published: December 2021

Soft tissue artefacts (STAs) undermine the validity of skin-mounted approaches to measure skeletal kinematics. Magneto-inertial measurement units (MIMU) gained popularity due to their low cost and ease of use. Although the reliability of different protocols for marker-based joint kinematics estimation has been widely reported, there are still no indications on where to place MIMU to minimize STA. This study aims to find the most stable positions for MIMU placement, among four positions on the thigh, four on the shank, and three on the foot. Stability was investigated by measuring MIMU movements against an anatomical reference frame, defined according to a standard marker-based approach. To this aim, markers were attached both on the case of each MIMU (technical frame) and on bony landmarks (anatomical frame). For each MIMU, the nine angles between each versor of the technical frame with each versor of the corresponding anatomical frame were computed. The maximum standard deviation of these angles was assumed as the instability index of MIMU-body coupling. Six healthy subjects were asked to perform barefoot gait, step negotiation, and sit-to-stand. Results showed that (1) in the thigh, the frontal position was the most stable in all tasks, especially in gait; (2) in the shank, the proximal position is the least stable, (3) lateral or medial calcaneus and foot dorsum positions showed equivalent stability performances. Further studies should be done before generalizing these conclusions to different motor tasks and MIMU-body fixation methods. The above results are of interest for both MIMU-based gait analysis and rehabilitation approaches using wearable sensors-based biofeedback.
Identifying Advanced Biotechnologies to Generate Biofertilizers and Biofuels From the World’s Worst Aquatic Weed
Authors: Ezzariai Amine , Hafidi Mohamed , Ben Bakrim Widad , Kibret Mulugeta , Karouach Fadoua , Sobeh Mansour , Kouisni Lamfeddal
Published: December 2021

Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes L.) was introduced as an invasive plant in freshwater bodies more particularly in Asia and Africa. This invasive plant grows rapidly and then occupies a huge layer of freshwater bodies. Hence, challenges are facing many countries for implementing suitable approaches for the valorization of the world’s worst aquatic weed, and water hyacinth (WH). A critical and up-to-date review article has been conducted for more than 1 year, based on more than 100 scientific journal articles, case studies, and other scientific reports. Worldwide distribution of WH and the associated social, economic, and environmental impacts were described. In addition, an extensive evaluation of the most widely used and innovative valorization biotechnologies, leading to the production of biofertilizer and bioenergy from WH, and was dressed. Furthermore, an integrated search was used in order to examine the related advantages and drawbacks of each bioprocess, and future perspectives stated. Aerobic and anaerobic processes have their specific basic parameters, ensuring their standard performances. Composting was mostly used even at a large scale, for producing biofertilizers from WH. Nevertheless, this review explored some critical points to better optimize the conditions (presence of pollutants, inoculation, and duration) of composting. WH has a high potential for biofuel production, especially by implementing several pretreatment approaches. This review highlighted the combined pretreatment (physical-chemical-biological) as a promising approach to increase biofuel production. WH valorization must be in large quantities to tackle its fast proliferation and to ensure the generation of bio-based products with significant revenue. So, a road map for future researches and applications based on an advanced statistical study was conducted. Several recommendations were explored in terms of the choice of co-substrates, initial basic parameters, and pretreatment conditions and all crucial conditions for the production of biofuels from WH. These recommendations will be of a great interest to generate biofertilizers and bioenergy from WH, especially within the framework of a circular economy.
Engineering of Reductive Aminases for Asymmetric Synthesis of Enantiopure Rasagiline
Authors: Zhang Kai , He Yuanzhi , Zhu Jiawei , Zhang Qi , Tang Luyao , Cui Li , Feng Yan
Published: December 2021

Reductive aminases (RedAms) for the stereoselective amination of ketones represent an environmentally benign and economically viable alternative to transition metal–catalyzed asymmetric chemical synthesis. Here, we report two RedAms from Aspergillus calidoustus (AcRedAm) and bacteria (BaRedAm) with NADPH-dependent features. The enzymes can synthesize a set of secondary amines using a broad range of ketone and amine substrates with up to 97% conversion. To synthesize the pharmaceutical ingredient (R)-rasagiline, we engineered AcRedAm through rational design to obtain highly stereoselective mutants. The best mutant Q237A from AcRedAm could synthesize (R)-rasagiline with >99% enantiomeric excess with moderate conversion. The features of AcRedAm and BaRedAm highlight their potential for further study and expand the biocatalytic toolbox for industrial applications.
Transcriptome-Wide m6A Analysis Provides Novel Insights Into Testicular Development and Spermatogenesis in Xia-Nan Cattle
Authors: Liu Shen-he , Ma Xiao-ya , Yue Ting-ting , Wang Zi-chen , Qi Kun-long , Li Ji-chao , Lin Feng , Rushdi Hossam E. , Gao Yu-yang , Fu Tong , Li Ming , Gao Teng-yun , Yang Li-guo , Han Xue-lei , Deng Ting-xian
Published: December 2021

Testis is the primary organ of the male reproductive tract in mammals that plays a substantial role in spermatogenesis. Improvement of our knowledge regarding the molecular mechanisms in testicular development and spermatogenesis will be reflected in producing spermatozoa of superior fertility. Evidence showed that N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) plays a dynamic role in post-transcription gene expression regulation and is strongly associated with production traits. However, the role of m6A in bovine testis has not been investigated yet. In this study, we conducted MeRIP-Seq analysis to explore the expression profiles of the m6A and its potential mechanism underlying spermatogenesis in nine bovine testes at three developmental stages (prepuberty, puberty and postpuberty). The experimental animals with triplicate in each stage were chosen based on their semen volume and sperm motility except for the prepuberty bulls and used for testes collection. By applying MeRIP-Seq analysis, a total of 8,774 m6A peaks and 6,206 m6A genes among the studied groups were identified. All the detected peaks were found to be mainly enriched in the coding region and 3′- untranslated regions. The cross-analysis of m6A and mRNA expression exhibited 502 genes with concomitant changes in the mRNA expression and m6A modification. Notably, 30 candidate genes were located in the largest network of protein-protein interactions. Interestingly, four key node genes (PLK4, PTEN, EGR1, and PSME4) were associated with the regulation of mammal testis development and spermatogenesis. This study is the first to present a map of RNA m6A modification in bovine testes at distinct ages, and provides new insights into m6A topology and related molecular mechanisms underlying bovine spermatogenesis, and establishes a basis for further studies on spermatogenesis in mammals.
Galleria mellonella as a Suitable Model of Bacterial Infection: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Ménard Guillaume , Rouillon Astrid , Cattoir Vincent , Donnio Pierre-Yves
Published: December 2021

The increasing interest forGalleria mellonellalarvae as an infection model is evidenced by the number of papers reporting its use, which increases exponentially since the early 2010s. This popularity was initially linked to limitation of conventional animal models due to financial, technical and ethical aspects. In comparison, alternative models (e.g. models usingCaenorhabditis elegans,Drosophila melanogasterorG. mellonella) were cheap, simple to use and not limited by ethical regulation. Since then, similar results have been established withG. mellonellamodel comparatively to vertebrates, and it is more and more often used as a robust modelper se, not only as an alternative to the murine model. This review attempts to summarize the current knowledge supporting the development of this model, both on immunological and microbiological aspects. For that, we focus on investigation of virulence and new therapies for the most important pathogenic bacteria. We also discuss points out directions for standardization, as well as recent advances and new perspectives for monitoring host-pathogen interactions.
Teaching Human-Computer Interaction Modules—And Then Came COVID-19
Authors: De Wet Lizette
Published: December 2021

In teaching Human-Computer Interaction at university level, it has always been beneficial to explain the related theory and engage students in a practical way, whether individually or in groups. And then came COVID-19. Face-to-face classes were replaced by emergency remote teaching methods. Students became student numbers in cyber space. The danger became real to convert back to the traditional way of presenting lectures, namely a lecturer doing all the talking and the students being the passive audience. This paper describes how the author had to adapt and innovate in terms of teaching Human-Computer Interaction modules to university students in a practical way during the COVID-19 pandemic. Frequent online quizzes, audio messages, online group discussion, smaller topic-dedicated practical activities, and webinars encouraging student participation, were employed. Instead of having access to eye-tracking technology in a usability laboratory, students had to innovate for usability evaluation assignments by employing observation, think-aloud protocols, and performance and self-reported metrics as data gathering methods. The laboratory had to be replaced by COVID-compliant places of residence. The outcomes of adapting previously-used teaching methods and inventing new ways to encourage student participation, were surprisingly positive. An additional advantage was that many of these methods turned out to be so successful that their application could be continued and extended to post-pandemic times for a blended learning approach to further enrich Human-Computer Interaction teaching.
Rotational Thromboelastometry in High-Risk Patients on Dual Antithrombotic Therapy After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Hulshof Anne-Marije , Olie Renske H. , Vries Minka J. A. , Verhezen Paul W. M. , van der Meijden Paola E. J. , ten Cate Hugo , Henskens Yvonne M. C.
Published: December 2021

Aims: Patients using antithrombotic drugs after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) are at risk for bleeding and recurrent ischemia. We aimed to explore routine and tissue plasminogen activated (tPA) ROTEM results in a post-PCI population on dual antithrombotic treatment.

Methods and Results: In this prospective cohort, 440 patients treated with double antithrombotic therapy after recent PCI and with ≥3 risk factors for either ischemic or bleeding complications were included and compared with a control group (n = 95) consisting of perioperative patients not using antithrombotic medication. Laboratory assessment, including (tPA) ROTEM, was performed one month post-PCI and bleeding/ischemic complications were collected over a five-month follow-up. Patients were stratified by antithrombotic regimen consisting of a P2Y12 inhibitor with either aspirin (dual antiplatelet therapy; DAPT, n = 323), a vitamin K antagonist (VKA, n = 69) or a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC, n = 48). All post-PCI patients had elevated ROTEM clot stiffness values, but only the DAPT group additionally presented with a decreased fibrinolytic potential as measured with tPA ROTEM. Patients receiving anticoagulants had prolonged clotting times (CT) when compared to the control and DAPT group; EXTEM and FIBTEM CT could best discriminate between patients (not) using anticoagulants (AUC > 0.97). Furthermore, EXTEM CT was significantly prolonged in DAPT patients with bleeding complications during follow-up (68 [62–70] vs. 62 [57–68], p = 0.030).

Conclusion: ROTEM CT has high potential for identifying anticoagulants and tPA ROTEM could detect a diminished fibrinolytic potential in patients using DAPT. Furthermore, the ability of EXTEM CT to identify patients at risk for bleeding may be promising and warrants further research.
Subclinical Leaflets Thrombosis After Transcatheter Replacement of Bicuspid vs. Tricuspid Aortic Valve
Authors: Zhu Gangjie , Fan Jiaqi , Zhou Dao , Dai Hanyi , Zhu Qifeng , He Yuxin , Guo Yuchao , Wang Lihan , Liu Xianbao , Wang Jian'an
Published: December 2021

Background: Subclinical leaflet thrombosis (SLT) is an important sequela that compromises the durability of the bioprosthetic valve.

Objectives: To better determine the effect of SLT in bicuspid aortic valve (BAV), we performed a retrospective assessment of CT-defined SLT in BAV and tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) stenotic patients.

Methods: We consecutively collected patients undergoing the TAVR between August 2015 and March 2020 in our center. A total of 170 BAV and 201 TAV cases were enrolled. Multidetector computed tomography was performed within 30 days and at 1-year.

Results: Twenty cases in the BAV group and 19 cases in the TAV group had hypoattenuated leaflet thickening (HALT) in 30 days (12.5 vs. 9.9%, p = 0.449), and 52 cases in BAV and 61 cases in TAV had the HALT (34.9 vs. 36.7%, p = 0.733) at 1-year follow-up. The mean aortic gradient (MAG) and effective orifice areas (EOA) values were comparable between the two groups at 30 days (HALT vs. no HALT; 10.8 ± 4.8 vs. 11.3 ± 6.0, p = 0.638; 1.6 ± 0.4 vs. 1.6 ± 0.3, p = 0.724), and still, no difference was observed in the MAG at 1-year (11.5 ± 5.6 vs. 10.6 ± 5.1, p = 0.164). However, the EOA at 1-year was statistically different between the two groups (1.5 ± 0.3 vs. 1.6 ± 0.4, p = 0.004). The multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated the anticoagulation and age as independent predictors both in the BAV and TAV groups at 1-year. There was no difference in clinical events between the HALT and no HALT group in relevant to BAV or TAV at 1-year follow-up.

Conclusions: The presence of subclinical leaflet thrombosis defined by the CT was comparable between the BAV and TAV in the first year after the TAVR procedure. Age and anticoagulation were the independent predictors of the subclinical leaflet thrombosis at 1 year after the TAVR. There was no difference in relevant clinical events between the BAV and TAV groups at 1-year follow-up.
Study on the Formation Mechanism of Shale Roof, Floor Sealing, and Shale Self-Sealing: A Case of Member I of the Upper Ordovician Wufeng Formation–Lower Silurian Longmaxi Formation in the Yangtze Region
Authors: Zhang Ziya , Zhang Kun , Song Yan , Jiang Zhenxue , Jiang Shu , Wang Pengfei , Li Yong , Yin Xiangdong , Chen Zhiyuan , Li Zhengwei , Yuan Xuejiao , Liu Pei , Han Fengli , Tang Liangyi , Yang Yiming , Zeng Yao
Published: December 2021

Similar to North America, China has abundant shale resources. Significant progress has been made in the exploration and exploitation of shale gas in China since 2009. As the geological theory of unconventional oil and gas was proposed, scientists have started researching conditions for shale gas preservation. The shale roof and floor sealing and the shale self-sealing are the critical objects of such research, which, however, are still in the initial stage. This article studies the formation mechanism of shale roof and floor sealing and shale self-sealing by taking marine shales from Member I of the upper Ordovician Wufeng Formation–lower Longmaxi Formation in the upper Yangtze region as the research object. Analyses were performed on the TOC content, mineral composition, and porosity, as well as the FIB-SEM, FIB-HIM, and gas permeability experiments on the core samples collected from the marine shales mentioned above. The conclusions are as follows: for the sealings of shale roof and floor, the regional cap rocks, roof, and floor provide sealing for shales due to physical property differences. For the self-sealing of shales, the second and third sub-members of Member I of the Wufeng Formation–Longmaxi Formation mainly develop clay mineral pores which are dominated by macropores with poor connectivity, while the first sub-member of Member I of the Wufeng Formation–Longmaxi Formation mainly develops organic-matter pores, which are dominated by micropores and mesopores with good connectivity. Owing to the connectivity difference, the second and third sub-members provide sealing for the first sub-member, while the methane adsorption effect of shales can inhibit large-scale shale gas migration as it decreases the gas permeability; thus, the organic-rich shales from the first sub-member of Member I of the Wufeng Formation–Longmaxi Formation provides sealing for itself.
Upper Bound Analysis of the Stability of 3D Slopes in the Saturated Soft Clay Subjected to Seismic Effect
Authors: Zhang Biao , Jiang Yi , Cheng Hao , Liu Ze
Published: December 2021

In order to study the three-dimensional stability problem of the saturated soft clay slope under earthquake loads, based on the three-dimensional rotation failure model, the seismic force was introduced into the calculation by the quasi-static method. The work rate of external loads and the internal energy dissipation rate of the saturated soft clay slope were calculated using the upper bound method of limit analysis, and the analytical solution of stability coefficient of saturated soft clay slopes was derived based on the fictitious power principle. By virtue of the exhaust algorithm, the optimal solution of stability coefficient of saturated soft clay slopes was obtained. The influence of the slope angle and the horizontal and vertical seismic forces on the stability coefficient of saturated soft clay slope was analyzed. The results show that the slope angle has a great influence on the stability coefficient, and the relative difference is up to 35.7%. Therefore, the stability coefficient of saturated soft clay slopes can be effectively increased by a proper slope setting. The horizontal and vertical seismic forces also have a significant influence on the stability of saturated soft clay slopes. The relative differences of the stability coefficient under horizontal and vertical seismic forces are as high as 41 and 14.7%, respectively. If they are ignored, the stability coefficient of saturated soft clay slopes will be seriously overestimated. It is suggested that the effects of horizontal and vertical seismic forces must be considered simultaneously in the seismic design of saturated soft clay slopes.
Comparative Characterization of Mitogenomes From Five Orders of Cestodes (Eucestoda: Tapeworms)
Authors: Trevisan Bruna , Jacob Machado Denis , Lahr Daniel J. G. , Marques Fernando P. L.
Published: December 2021

The recognized potential of using mitogenomics in phylogenetics and the more accessible use of high-throughput sequencing (HTS) offer an opportunity to investigate groups of neglected organisms. Here, we leveraged HTS to execute the most comprehensive documentation of mitogenomes for cestodes based on the number of terminals sequenced. We adopted modern approaches to obtain the complete mitogenome sequences of 86 specimens representing five orders of cestodes (three reported for the first time: Phyllobothriidea, “Tetraphyllidea” and Trypanorhyncha). These complete mitogenomes represent an increase of 41% of the mitogenomes available for cestodes (61–147) and an addition of 33% in the representativeness of the cestode orders. The complete mitochondrial genomes are conserved, circular, encoded in the same strand, and transcribed in the same direction, following the pattern observed previously for tapeworms. Their length varies from 13,369 to 13,795 bp, containing 36 genes in total. Except for the Trypanorhyncha specimen, the gene order of the other four cestode orders sequenced here suggests that it could be a synapomorphy for the acetabulate group (with a reversion for taenids). Our results also suggest that no single gene can tell all the evolutionary history contained in the mitogenome. Therefore, cestodes phylogenies based on a single mitochondrial marker may fail to capture their evolutionary history. We predict that such phylogenies would be improved if conducted under a total evidence framework. The characterization of the new mitochondrial genomes is the first step to provide a valuable resource for future studies on the evolutionary relationships of these groups of parasites.
Integrative Analyses of Biochemical Properties and Transcriptome Reveal the Dynamic Changes in Leaf Senescence of Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.)
Authors: Zhang Binghui , Yang Jiahan , Gu Gang , Jin Liao , Chen Chengliang , Lin Zhiqiang , Song Jiangyu , Xie Xiaofang
Published: December 2021

Leaf senescence is an important process of growth and development in plant, and it is a programmed decline controlled by a series of genes. In this study, the biochemical properties and transcriptome at five maturity stages (M1∼M5) of tobacco leaves were analyzed to reveal the dynamic changes in leaf senescence of tobacco. A total of 722, 1,534, 3,723, and 6,933 genes were differentially expressed (DEG) between M1 and M2, M1 and M3, M1 and M4, and M1 and M5, respectively. Significant changes of nitrogen, sugars, and the DEGs related to metabolite accumulation were identified, suggesting the importance of energy metabolism during leaf senescence. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis found that DEGs were enriched in biosynthetic, metabolic, photosynthesis, and redox processes, and especially, the nitrogen metabolic pathways were closely related to the whole leaf senescence process (M1∼M5). All the DEGs were grouped into 12 expression profiles according to their distinct expression patterns based on Short Time-series Expression Miner (STEM) software analysis. Furthermore, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis found that these DEGs were enriched in pathways of carbon metabolism, starch and sucrose metabolism, nitrogen metabolism, and photosynthesis among these expression profiles. A total of 30 core genes were examined by Weight Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA), and they appeared to play a crucial role in the regulatory of tobacco senescence. Our results provided valuable information for further functional investigation of leaf senescence in plants.
Parsing the Role of PPARs in Macrophage Processes
Authors: Toobian Daniel , Ghosh Pradipta , Katkar Gajanan D.
Published: December 2021

Cells are richly equipped with nuclear receptors, which act as ligand-regulated transcription factors. Peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs), members of the nuclear receptor family, have been extensively studied for their roles in development, differentiation, and homeostatic processes. In the recent past, there has been substantial interest in understanding and defining the functions of PPARs and their agonists in regulating innate and adaptive immune responses as well as their pharmacologic potential in combating acute and chronic inflammatory disease. In this review, we focus on emerging evidence of the potential roles of the PPAR subtypes in macrophage biology. We also discuss the roles of dual and pan PPAR agonists as modulators of immune cell function, microbial infection, and inflammatory diseases.
Three-Dimensional Culture Decreases the Angiogenic Ability of Mouse Macrophages
Authors: Shi Haoxin , Li Dong , Shi Qing , Han Zhenxia , Tan Yuwei , Mu Xiaodong , Qin Miao , Li Zengjun
Published: December 2021

Macrophages play important roles in angiogenesis; however, previous studies on macrophage angiogenesis have focused on traditional 2D cultures. In this study, we established a 3D culture system for macrophages using collagen microcarriers and assessed the effect of 3D culture on their angiogenic capabilities. Macrophages grown in 3D culture displayed a significantly different morphology and arrangement under electron microscopy compared to those grown in 2D culture. Tube formation assays and chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane assays further revealed that 3D-cultured macrophages were less angiogenic than those in 2D culture. Whole-transcriptome sequencing showed that nearly 40% of genes were significantly differently expressed, including nine important angiogenic factors of which seven had been downregulated. In addition, the expression of almost all genes related to two important angiogenic pathways was decreased in 3D-cultured macrophages, including the two key angiogenic factors, VEGFA and ANG2. Together, the findings of our study improve our understanding of angiogenesis and 3D macrophage culture in tissues, and provide new avenues and methods for future research on macrophages.
Endosymbiont Communities in Pachyseris speciosa Highlight Geographical and Methodological Variations
Authors: Jain Sudhanshi S. , Afiq-Rosli Lutfi , Feldman Bar , Kunning Ismael , Levy Oren , Mana Ralph R. , Wainwright Benjamin J. , Huang Danwei
Published: December 2021

Reef-building corals live in symbiosis with the phototrophic dinoflagellate family Symbiodiniaceae, which comprises diverse genera such as Cladocopium and Durusdinium. Pachyseris speciosa, a widely distributed Indo-Pacific coral found in a variety of reef habitats, is known to be associated with these two Symbiodiniaceae genera, but little is known about the biogeographic variability of the endosymbiont communities across the region. In this study, the diversity and dominance patterns of Symbiodiniaceae at the western and eastern areas of the Central Indo-Pacific region were examined. We sampled Pachyseris speciosa colonies at seven and six sites in Singapore and Papua New Guinea, respectively, and genotyped their endosymbionts based on the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) markers using two distinct methods, quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and high-throughput sequencing (HTS). Results showed 92% of all colonies in Singapore exhibiting Cladocopium dominance. There was a higher abundance of Durusdinium compared to Cladocopium in certain colonies from one site, Pulau Hantu (mean Durusdinium abundance of 90%, compared to 0–14% among all other sites). In contrast, variation in the endosymbiont communities was generally higher among sites in Papua New Guinea. Cladocopium expectedly dominated most colonies (75%), although colonies from Kimbe Bay (85%) and Kavieng (65%) showed Durusdinium dominance. Between localities, relative genus abundances based on qPCR were not significantly different, but HTS showed that the ratio of Durusdinium over Cladocopium was significantly higher in Papua New Guinea corals. Notably, 6% of colonies from Singapore and 15% from Papua New Guinea showed endosymbiont dominance patterns that were inconsistent between the two methods, underscoring the need for further validation of symbiotic algal quantification based on HTS. The richness of ITS2 type profiles was clearly lower among colonies from the impacted and turbid reefs of Singapore compared to the less urbanized reefs of Papua New Guinea. These coral intraspecific variations of Symbiodiniaceae communities within and among localities suggest that local conditions are important drivers of endosymbiosis and may ultimately influence corals’ resilience against global stressors such as ocean warming.
Development and Validation of a Novel Prognosis Prediction Model for Patients With Stomach Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Tong , Wen Weiwei , Liu Hongfei , Zhang Jun , Zhang Xiaofeng , Wang Yu
Published: December 2021

Background: Stomach adenocarcinoma (STAD) is a significant global health problem. It is urgent to identify reliable predictors and establish a potential prognostic model.

Methods: RNA-sequencing expression data of patients with STAD were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Gene expression profiling and survival analysis were performed to investigate differentially expressed genes (DEGs) with significant clinical prognosis value. Overall survival (OS) analysis and univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to establish the prognostic model. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) network, functional enrichment analysis, and differential expression investigation were also performed to further explore the potential mechanism of the prognostic genes in STAD. Finally, nomogram establishment was undertaken by performing multivariate Cox regression analysis, and calibration plots were generated to validate the nomogram.

Results: A total of 229 overlapping DEGs were identified. Following Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, 11 genes significantly associated with prognosis were screened and five of these genes, including COL10A1, MFAP2, CTHRC1, P4HA3, and FAP, were used to establish the risk model. The results showed that patients with high-risk scores have a poor prognosis, compared with those with low-risk scores (p = 0.0025 for the training dataset and p = 0.045 for the validation dataset). Subsequently, a nomogram (including TNM stage, age, gender, histologic grade, and risk score) was created. In addition, differential expression and immunohistochemistry stain of the five core genes in STAD and normal tissues were verified.

Conclusion: We develop a prognostic-related model based on five core genes, which may serve as an independent risk factor for survival prediction in patients with STAD.