bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Artificial Intelligence Applications in Medicine: A Rapid Overview of Current Paradigms
Authors: Bali Jatinder , Bali Ojasvini
Published: December 2021

Artificial intelligence (AI) is defined as “the ability of a digital machine or computer to accomplish tasks that traditionally have required human intelligence.” Simply put, these are machines that can think and learn. AI has become ubiquitous and is now being applied in healthcare. It uses concepts from statistics, computer science, and data science. An increased understanding of the tools is essential for medical practitioners and medical researchers so that they can contribute meaningfully to the development of the technology, instead of being mere data providers or data labellers. AI has been employed in the finance, marketing, and travel industries for a considerable length of time, but its application in medicine is only gaining acceptance now. Practical office tools based on the AI technologies appear to still be some time away, but these AI-based applications have the potential to benefit all stakeholders in the healthcare industry. This article briefly overviews the current paradigms of AI in medicine.
Evenness of species abundance in the littoral communities of the Murman
Authors: Malavenda Svetlana V.
Published: December 2021

The spatial and species structure of fucus algae communities in littoral phytocenoses of Eastern Murmansk is studied. This is the North-Eastern border of Fucus communities. 87 species of macrophyte algae were identified in the communities. The variation of species diversity as an indicator of community structure is determined depending on the leading abiotic factors – salinity, surf content, and substrate type. The species diversity of macrophyte algae in the littoral of the Eastern Murmansk is determined primarily by surf activity. Under similar hydrological conditions, soil features determine the density of thickets and, consequently, the number of species found in a single sample. Salinity fluctuations at which it drops below 15‰ are critical for most species and fundamentally change the structure of communities. The highest values of the indices of species diversity were observed in the littoral areas of the coast that are poorly protected from the surf.
Effects of zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) on phytoplankton under eutrophic conditions
Authors: Sakharova Ekaterina G. , Feniova Irina Yu. , Gorelysheva Zoya I. , Karpowicz Maciej , Górniak Andrzej
Published: December 2021

We conducted two mesocosm experiments (2014 and 2017) to determine how invasive zebra mussels affected abundance and structure of phytoplankton community. Algae reaction was different for the introduction of D. polymorpha in 2014 and 2017. There was no influence of zebra mussels on the phytoplankton total abundance; however, it changed the biomass of individual taxa. Cyanoprokaryota reaction as a result the zebra mussels introduction was influenced by the initial phytoplankton structure and initial nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations in water. The biomass of Сyanoprokaryotа decreased at low N:P ratios and increased at high N:P ratios. Dreissena increased the biomass of large green filamentous algae, which is a poor food resource for zooplankton.
COMPILATION AS A COMPOSITION APPROACH OF CONTEMPORARY ART SCHOOL
Authors: Sukhenko Viktor , Zasypkin Оleksandr
Published: December 2021

Abstract. It is impossible to create something new in science and art, without first absorbing the experience, knowledge, skills of scientists and artists of the past generation. Even the most original, progressive, and innovative ideas are, in fact, a compilation of previous experience. The compilation technique is one of the main and effective tools of the scientific world. It is also actively used in the creative process of musicians, writers, and filmmakers. The compilation technique is a fairly common phenomenon in the scientific world and art in general, at the same time, its level can be very different, ranging from direct plagiarism to forms of synthesis, the traces of which are very difficult to detect. There are separate genres in art, based on compilation, for instance, a «remake» in cinematography, a «potpourri» in music, a «historical analog» in visual art, and an «artrunion» in literature. Meanwhile, compilation, as one of the forms of the artist's creative method, is a very "delicate" and "vulnerable" matter, sometimes causing a lot of controversy among specialists, since there is no tool that could accurately measure the degree of compilation bordering on plagiarism. If in the scientific world author indicates a list of compilation material, writing an article, then in case of an artist, we will not see it due to specifics of his work. The path of an artist, in terms of the embodiment of an artistic conception, is in many ways spontaneous, and intuitive. On this path, it is very difficult for him to isolate his authorship from the experience of other artists, and as a result, his work is a kind of conglomerate of synthesis. In our study, we consider the compilation technique mainly on the example of the methods of a children's art school work, taking into account the age of a student. At the same time, the compilation technique is a universal method of composition that can be effectively used by teachers in the creative development process. Meanwhile, the compilation technique is a frequent subject of disputes during the competitive selection of creative works and today requires a deeper analysis and public discussion.
THE HISTORIC ENVIRONMENT OF THE CITY: THE ESSENCE AND PRINCIPLES OF PROTECTION
Authors: Prybieha Leonid
Published: December 2021

Abstract. The article considers the actual problem of preserving the traditional environment for the historical city in the conditions of active development of urban infrastructure. Based on the analytical study of previous research and morphological analysis of components, it proposes to define the historic environment as a monument protection category, which determines the space of a historical city, organized in a characteristic landscape by inherited historic planning and system of buildings and structures, characterized by historical and cultural content. The article proves that the material basis of the city's historic environment is a historically inherited spatial framework formed by traditional buildings. Accordingly, to protect the environment of the ancient city means to preserve the inherited historic spatial framework in a state that does not change its spatial structure and does not lead to identity loss. The article also raises issues of practical solutions to the protection of the historic environment of ancient cities.
WAYS OF ARCHITECTURAL REVALUATION OF ARCHITECTURAL SUBSTANCE IN THE HISTORICAL ENVIRONMENT OF THE CITY
Authors: Skoryk Larisa
Published: December 2021

Abstract. The multifaceted problem of the relationship between the old and the new in the structure of cities subject to reconstructive transformation covers not only the range of tasks for the integration of historically composed and new buildings, but also a number of ambiguous issues of architectural revaluation of historical architectural and urban planning substance. lost elements to improve the aesthetic value of the urban environment and further preserve its integrity. If the solution of issues of urban coherence of historical and new buildings is based on the variability of the respective location in the urban structure of urban formation, the ways of architectural revaluation are based on the principles of volumetric and tectonic perfection of historical substance. ensembles, often by means of finely tempered harmonization of old and new architectural solutions (Hereditary development of compositional and spatial features of the city center). European urbanism of the twentieth century. He also knows cases of architectural revaluation of large urban complexes, such as in the process of restoration after the military destruction of the historic areas of Warsaw and Gdansk, where the problem of restoring the architectural integrity of buildings was combined with issues of restoration, reconstruction, modernization and necessary rehabilitation. on the legitimacy of such revaluation measures, which were not based on the restoration of authentic historical heritage, but in fact on its reproduction "from the ground up", based not only on scientifically sound materials, but often on architectural conjecture, method of analogues, etc. The controversy over the architectural revaluation of historic buildings began in the late nineteenth century, when the issues of conservation and restoration in a set of reconstructive urban planning tasks began to require immediate resolution. Renowned British art critic John Ruskin, reacting sharply to the imperfections of restoration work that led to significant distortions and even distortions of valuable historical substance in various countries, said: «Reproduction from nothing of something that was once great and beautiful in architecture is as impossible as return to life…» (Рёскин 81–82).
AN IMMORTAL POEM IN THE WORKS OF UKRAINIAN ARTISTS
Authors: Nesterenko Petro
Published: December 2021

Abstract. For the first time, the article highlights the continued interest of researchers and artists in the memorial of ancient Russian literature of the end of the 12th century, "The Tale of Igor’s Campaign" at the present stage. The peculiarities of the decoration of editions dedicated to the poem performed by domestic artists in the second half of XX — beginning of XXI centuries are investigated. The pearl of ancient Russian literature of the end of the XII century, «The Tale of Igor’s Campaign» does not leave many generations of its admirers indifferent. The 200 th anniversary of the release of the monument of Ukrainian culture has passed, and the interest in the «The Tale of Igor’s Campaign» has not subsided. The magic of this work continues to attract new researchers and artists. Anniversary dates helped to increase interest in the landmark. On the occasion of the 150 th anniversary of the first printing of the poem, J. Hnizdovsky in New York illustrated and artfully decorated the anniversary edition. A quarter of a century the design and illustrations for the poem were performed by Kyiv’s I. Selivanov. G. Yakutovich’s editions, created in the Dnipro publishing house as souvenirs, look like real masterpieces. The engravings of G. Yakutovich were already heard in another edition of «The Tale of Igor’s Campaign», which came out of print in the Kiev publishing house Veselka in 2008. In 1989, the publishing house «Soviet School» published a thorough edition of «The Tale of Igor’s Campaign», illustrations, layout and decoration of which were made by V. Lopata, and the editing and notes by O. Mishanych. The artist’s works are multifaceted in composition and imbued with special drama and symbolism with expression. Equally interesting was the 2015 edition, commissioned by the State Committee for Television and Radio Broadcasting of Ukraine under the Ukrainian Book program. Particularly noteworthy are the graphic works by V. Yefimov from Odessa and M. Bondarenko from Sumy region, who embodied their preferences and unique manners in the work on the poem.
Drones in Insect Pest Management
Authors: Subramanian K. S. , Pazhanivelan S. , Srinivasan G. , Santhi R. , Sathiah N.
Published: December 2021

One of the major components in precision agriculture is crop health monitoring, which includes irrigation, fertilization, pesticide sprays, and timely harvest of the crop. Further, the progressive change in growth and development is critical in crop monitoring and taking suitable decisions to maintain health status. In order to accomplish the task, drones are highly useful for on site detection of problems so as to undertake corrective measures instantly. Although it is expensive to build algorithms and establish relationships between ground truth and spectral signatures, it is a user-friendly technique once the basics studies are done. As labor availability and technical manpower are extremely limited, particularly in India, drones are gaining popularity in the context of smart farming. Insect pests are known to cause catastrophe and drastic reduction in food grain production across the globe. The losses that have been predicted by FAO is over 37% due to pests and diseases. Recently, crops cultivated in India have been threatened by invasive pests like fall army worm (Spodoptera frugiperda) in corn and Rugose spiraling whitefly in coconut (Aleurodicus rugiperculatous Martin); these pests caused extensive damage during the years 2018 and 2019. The plant protection measures are to be taken on a community basis so as to ensure effective management of pests. In India, more than 80% of farmlands are in the category of small and marginal (<1 ha), so it is very difficult to manage the invasive pests. If one field is sprayed, the pests simply shift their feeding to the neighboring fields. To address this, drones become essential. Drones are unmanned aerial vehicles exploited in a wide array of disciplines such as defense, monitoring systems, and disaster management but are only beginning to be utilized in agricultural sciences. There are three major types of drones, namely fixed wing, multi-rotor, and hybrid type, and the usage depends on specific applications. The other types depend on degree of automation, size, weight, and power source. The set operational parameters such as flight speed, height, and endurance need to be optimized to use drones appropriately in agriculture and allied sectors. In addition, parameters related to drone-based spraying such as droplet size, spread, density, uniformity, deposition, and penetrability should also be factored in when implementing drone-based mitigation strategies. Despite the fact that drone technology is highly relevant and appropriate for pest management, the adoption of the technology is restricted. Regulatory guidelines have been set across the globe to perform site-specific farm management with higher precision at a very high resolution. Overall, drones can be employed in almost all agricultural field operations and are considered excellent tools for rapid, reliable, and non-destructive detection of field problems. This review provides panoramic views of drone technology and its application in the management of pests in a digital agriculture era.
Studying the Mechanobiology of Aortic Endothelial Cells Under Cyclic Stretch Using a Modular 3D Printed System
Authors: Aguilera Suarez Sergio , Sekar Nadia Chandra , Nguyen Ngan , Lai Austin , Thurgood Peter , Zhou Ying , Needham Scott , Pirogova Elena , Khoshmanesh Khashayar , Baratchi Sara
Published: December 2021

Here, we describe a motorized cam-driven system for the cyclic stretch of aortic endothelial cells. Our modular design allows for generating customized spatiotemporal stretch profiles by varying the profile and size of 3D printed cam and follower elements. The system is controllable, compact, inexpensive, and amenable for parallelization and long-term experiments. Experiments using human aortic endothelial cells show significant changes in the cytoskeletal structure and morphology of cells following exposure to 5 and 10% cyclic stretch over 9 and 16 h. The system provides upportunities for exploring the complex molecular and cellular processes governing the response of mechanosensitive cells under cyclic stretch.
Efficient Onboarding and Management of Members in Permissioned Blockchain Networks Utilizing TLS Certificates
Authors: Gallersdörfer Ulrich , Strugala Jan-Niklas , Matthes Florian
Published: December 2021

Consortia blockchain networks face the issue of expanding their systems to new members. Onboarding processes are often cumbersome, as they require identifying the new participant, manually setting up rights, exchanging key material, and adding information about the new member to the consensus smart contract. Besides that, these processes are time-consuming and scale poorly. Identifying the members might be faulty as the pre-existing members might be deceived by malicious parties claiming to be someone else. This paper proposes a novel methodology to allow the onboarding of new parties without time-intensive off-chain processes. We establish identities of new consortia members by utilizing TLS certificates bound to publicly known domain names. With this identity scheme in place, the network operators can define rules such as only specific parties are allowed to join the network, e.g., only owners of *.edu domains. This methodology scales well, provides for extensive ruling and monitoring, and helps consortia blockchains to grow faster.
Global Simultaneous Optimization of Oil, Hysteretic and Inertial Dampers Using Real-Valued Genetic Algorithm and Local Search
Authors: Uemura Ryohei , Akehashi Hiroki , Fujita Kohei , Takewaki Izuru
Published: December 2021

A method for global simultaneous optimization of oil, hysteretic and inertial dampers is proposed for building structures using a real-valued genetic algorithm and local search. Oil dampers has the property that they can reduce both displacement and acceleration without significant change of natural frequencies and hysteretic dampers possess the characteristic that they can absorb energy efficiently and reduce displacement effectively in compensation for the increase of acceleration. On the other hand, inertial dampers can change (prolong) the natural periods with negative stiffness and reduce the effective input and the maximum acceleration in compensation for the increase of deformation. By using the proposed simultaneous optimization method, structural designers can select the best choice of these three dampers from the viewpoints of cost and performance indices (displacement, acceleration). For attaining the global optimal solution which cannot be attained by the conventional sensitivity-based approach, a method including a real-valued genetic algorithm and local search is devised. In the first stage, a real-valued genetic algorithm is used for searching an approximate global optimal solution. Then a local search procedure is activated for enhancing the optimal character of the solutions by reducing the total quantity of three types of dampers. It is demonstrated that a better design from the viewpoint of global optimality can be obtained by the proposed method and the preference of damper selection strongly depends on the design target (displacement, acceleration). Finally, a multi-objective optimization for the minimum deformation and acceleration is investigated.
The Extracellular Matrix in Soft Tissue Sarcomas: Pathobiology and Cellular Signalling
Authors: Pankova Valeriya , Thway Khin , Jones Robin L. , Huang Paul H.
Published: December 2021

Soft tissue sarcomas are rare cancers of mesenchymal origin or differentiation comprising over 70 different histological subtypes. Due to their mesenchymal differentiation, sarcomas are thought to produce and deposit large quantities of extracellular matrix (ECM) components. Interactions between ECM ligands and their corresponding adhesion receptors such as the integrins and the discoidin domain receptors play key roles in driving many fundamental oncogenic processes including uncontrolled proliferation, cellular invasion and altered metabolism. In this review, we focus on emerging studies that describe the key ECM components commonly found in soft tissue sarcomas and discuss preclinical and clinical evidence outlining the important role that these proteins and their cognate adhesion receptors play in sarcomagenesis. We conclude by providing a perspective on the need for more comprehensive in-depth analyses of both the ECM and adhesion receptor biology in multiple histological subtypes in order to identify new drug targets and prognostic biomarkers for this group of rare diseases of unmet need.
Trends in Cardiometabolic and Cancer Multimorbidity Prevalence and Its Risk With All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality in U.S. Adults: Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yang Liu , Sun Jiahong , Zhao Min , Magnussen Costan G. , Xi Bo
Published: December 2021

Several prospective cohort studies have assessed the association between multimorbidity and all-cause mortality, but the findings have been inconsistent. In addition, limited studies have assessed the association between multimorbidity and cause-specific mortality. In this study, we used the population based cohort study of National Health Interview Survey (1997–2014) with linkage to the National Death Index records to 31 December 2015 to examine the trends in prevalence of multimorbidity from 1997 to 2014, and its association with the risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality in the U.S. population. A total of 372,566 adults aged 30–84 years were included in this study. From 1997 to 2014, the age-standardized prevalence of specific chronic condition and multimorbidity increased significantly (P < 0.0001). During a median follow-up of 9.0 years, 50,309 of 372,566 participants died from all causes, of which 11,132 (22.1%) died from CVD and 13,170 (26.2%) died from cancer. Compared with participants without the above-mentioned chronic conditions, those with 1, 2, 3, and ≥4 of chronic conditions had 1.41 (1.37–1.45), 1.94 (1.88–2.00), 2.64 (2.54–2.75), and 3.68 (3.46–3.91) higher risk of all-cause mortality after adjustment for important covariates. Similarly, a higher risk of CVD-specific and cancer-specific mortality was observed as the number of chronic conditions increased, with the observed risk stronger for CVD-mortality compared with cancer-specific mortality. Given the prevalence of multimorbidity tended to increase from 1997 to 2014, our data suggest effective prevention and intervention programs are necessary to limit the increased mortality risk associated with multimorbidity.
Case Report: A Giant Left-Ventricular Intramural Pseudoaneurysm Arise From Ruptured Left Sinus of Valsalva Aneurysm
Authors: Hua Minghui , Gao Yufan , Li Jianhui , Tong Fang , Li Ximing , Zhang Hong
Published: December 2021

In this report, we present a case study of an extremely rare left sinus Valsalva aneurysm (SVA) rupture into the left-ventricular myocardium. Acute ozone inhalation and long-term hypertension are possible contributors to the condition. Utilizing multimodal cardiovascular imaging techniques [echocardiogram, computed tomography (CT), and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR)], a large, left-ventricular, intramural pseudoaneurysm (IPA) arising from the ruptured left SVA, was clearly observed anatomically and functionally. Subsequently, our patient underwent patch repair and valvoplasty which offered an excellent prognosis. This report describes the manifestation of the ruptured left SVA and its possible etiology. This case also emphasizes the need for multimodal imaging for subsequent surgical repair.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Europe: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Prevalence Studies
Authors: Paulo Marília Silva , Abdo Noor Motea , Bettencourt-Silva Rita , Al-Rifai Rami H.
Published: December 2021

Background

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is defined as the type of hyperglycemia diagnosed for the first-time during pregnancy, presenting with intermediate glucose levels between normal levels for pregnancy and glucose levels diagnostic of diabetes in the non-pregnant state. We aimed to systematically review and meta-analyze studies of prevalence of GDM in European countries at regional and sub-regional levels, according to age, trimester, body weight, and GDM diagnostic criteria.

Methods

Systematic search was conducted in five databases to retrieve studies from 2014 to 2019 reporting the prevalence of GDM in Europe. Two authors have independently screened titles and abstracts and full text according to eligibility using Covidence software. A random-effects model was used to quantify weighted GDM prevalence estimates. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute criteria was used to assess the risk of bias.

Results

From the searched databases, 133 research reports were deemed eligible and included in the meta-analysis. The research reports yielded 254 GDM-prevalence studies that tested 15,572,847 pregnant women between 2014 and 2019. The 133 research reports were from 24 countries in Northern Europe (44.4%), Southern Europe (27.1%), Western Europe (24.1%), and Eastern Europe (4.5%). The overall weighted GDM prevalence in the 24 European countries was estimated at 10.9% (95% CI: 10.0–11.8, I2: 100%). The weighted GDM prevalence was highest in the Eastern Europe (31.5%, 95% CI: 19.8–44.6, I2: 98.9%), followed by in Southern Europe (12.3%, 95% CI: 10.9–13.9, I2: 99.6%), Western Europe (10.7%, 95% CI: 9.5–12.0, I2: 99.9%), and Northern Europe (8.9%, 95% CI: 7.9–10.0, I2: 100). GDM prevalence was 2.14-fold increased in pregnant women with maternal age ≥30 years (versus 15-29 years old), 1.47-fold if the diagnosis was made in the third trimester (versus second trimester), and 6.79- fold in obese and 2.29-fold in overweight women (versus normal weight).

Conclusions

In Europe, GDM is significant in pregnant women, around 11%, with the highest prevalence in pregnant women of Eastern European countries (31.5%). Findings have implications to guide vigilant public health awareness campaigns about the risk factors associated with developing GDM.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO [https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/], identifier CRD42020161857.
Efficacy and Safety of GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhu Yuan , Xu Jiao , Zhang Dong , Mu Xingyu , Shi Yi , Chen Shangtao , Wu Zengxiang , Li Shuangqing
Published: December 2021

The prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing and there is an urgent need for new treatment strategy to prevent progression of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. We have performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the efficacy and safety of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in the treatment of hepatic steatosis and fibrosis in patients with T2DM and NAFLD. The PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched for articles that met the eligibility criteria to explore the efficacy and safety of GLP-1RAs in patients with T2DM and NAFLD. We assessed pooled data using a random/fixed-effects model according to the I2 and p-values. Eight trials that included a total of 468 participants were eligible for inclusion in the review. For primary outcomes, administration of GLP-1RAs significantly decreased the content of intrahepatic adipose (IHA)[p=0.007, weight mean difference (WMD) -3.01, 95% confidence interval (CI) -4.75, -1.28], subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) (p<0.00001,WMD -28.53,95%CI -68.09,-26.31), and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) (p<0.0001,WMD -29.05,95%CI -42.90,-15.9). For secondary outcomes, GLP-1RAs produced a significant decrease in levels of alanine aminotransferase(ALT)(p=0.02, WMD -3.82, 95%CI -7.04, -0.60), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (p=0.03, WMD -2.4, 95%CI -4.55,-0.25, I2 = 49%), body weight (p<0.00001,WMD -3.48,95%CI -4.58,-2.37), body mass index (p<0.00001,WMD -1.07,95%CI -1.35,-0.78), circumference waist (p=0.0002,WMD -3.87, 95%CI -5.88, -1.86) fasting blood glucose (p=0.02, WMD -0.35, 95%CI -0.06, -0.05), HbA1c (p<0.00001,WMD -0.39,95%CI -0.56,-0.22), HoMA-IR(p=0.005, WMD-1.51, 95%CI-0.87,-0.16), total cholesterol (p=0.0008, WMD -0.31, 95%CI -0.48, 0.13) and triglycerides (p=0.0008, WMD -0.27, 95%CI -0.43,-0.11) in comparison with the control regimens. The main adverse events associated with GLP-1RAs included mild-to-moderate gastrointestinal discomfort and nonsense hypoglycemia that resolved within a few weeks. GLP-1RAs were an effective treatment that improved intrahepatic visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue, inflammatory markers, the anthropometric profiles and some metabolic indices in patients with T2DM and NAFLD, GLP-1RAs could be considered for use in these if there are no contraindications. Further studies are needed to understand the direct and indirect effects of GLP-1RAs on NAFLD and the potential mechanism via which they prevent its progression.

Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO, identifier CRD42021265806.
A New Stress Intensity Factor Solution Based on the Response Surface Method for Nozzle Corner Cracks in Nuclear Reactor for Thermal Energy Generation
Authors: Jin Ting , He Zhibo , Liu Pan , Wang Zihang , Li Yuebing , Wang Dasheng
Published: December 2021

As considered carbon-free, the use of nuclear energy for thermal energy generation may expand in the future, with the guarantee of safe operation of the nuclear reactor. In a nuclear reactor pressure vessel (RPV), the nozzle area is an important part of the safe operation. It bears internal pressure, axial force, and overall moment, and at the same time bears higher stress than the rest of the vessel. To assess the integrity of the nozzle structure with a crack under combined load, an accurate solution of stress intensity factors (SIF) along the crack front is necessary. To obtain the SIF, this paper proposes a solution method that uses the stress on the crack surface and the response surface method to fit the stress under the framework of the linear superposition technique. This method is the first choice to determine a series of influence coefficients under unit pressure load. Then, one can estimate the SIFs by superposition method for an arbitrary stress distribution resulted from combined loads. The proposed solution is verified for a typical RPV with cracks under internal pressure, axial force, and global bending moment. The results reveal that the proposed solution is in good agreement with the existing solutions under internal pressure. Therefore, it can be obtained that this solution can be effectively used for the structural integrity assessment of RPV with nozzle corner cracks.
Fate and Toxicity of Carbamazepine and Its Degradation By-Products During Coupling of Ozonation and Nanofiltration for Urban Wastewater Reuse
Authors: Yacouba Z. Amadou , Lesage G. , Mendret J. , Zaviska F. , Petit E. , Brosillon S.
Published: December 2021

Occurrence of emerging organic micropollutants in water bodies and their effects are a concern related to quality of reused water. Advanced oxidation processes have demonstrated promising results to address this challenge. Nonetheless, these processes may lead to the generation of more toxic oxidation by-products. The aim of this study was to investigate the coupling of ozonation and nanofiltration (NF) applied to carbamazepine (CBZ). It consisted in monitoring the degradation and fate of CBZ and its subsequent by-products, their fate and toxicity. CBZ was completely degraded after 5 min of ozonation and six identified transformation by-products were formed: I (hydroxycarbamazepine), BQM [1-(2-benzaldehyde)-4-hydro-(1H, 3H)-quinazoline-2-one], II (2-(1H)-quinazolinone), BaQM [1-(2-benzoic acid)-4-hydro-(1H, 3H)-quinazoline-2-one], BQD [1-(2-benzaldehyde)-(1H, 3H)-quinazoline-2,4-dione] and BaQD [1-(2-benzoic acid)-(1H, 3H)-quinazoline-2,4-dione]. Mineralization rate of ozonation never exceeded 12% even with high ozone dose. Bioassays with Vibrio fischeri revealed that BQM and BQD are responsible for toxicity. NF is able to remove total organic carbon with removal rate up to 93% at 85% of permeate recovery rate. CBZ and its different ozonation by-products were almost completely retained by NF, except the II, which had an MW slightly lower than the membrane molecular weight cut-off, for which the removal rate was still between 80 and 96% depending on the recovery rate.
Projecting Hydrological Responses to Climate Change Using CMIP6 Climate Scenarios for the Upper Huai River Basin, China
Authors: Bian Guodong , Zhang Jianyun , Chen Jie , Song Mingming , He Ruimin , Liu Cuishan , Liu Yanli , Bao Zhenxin , Lin Qianguo , Wang Guoqing
Published: December 2021

The influence of climate change on the regional hydrological cycle has been an international scientific issue that has attracted more attention in recent decades due to its huge effects on drought and flood. It is essential to investigate the change of regional hydrological characteristics in the context of global warming for developing flood mitigation and water utilization strategies in the future. The purpose of this study is to carry out a comprehensive analysis of changes in future runoff and flood for the upper Huai River basin by combining future climate scenarios, hydrological model, and flood frequency analysis. The daily bias correction (DBC) statistical downscaling method is used to downscale the global climate model (GCM) outputs from the sixth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) and to generate future daily temperature and precipitation series. The Xinanjiang (XAJ) hydrological model is driven to project changes in future seasonal runoff under SSP245 and SSP585 scenarios for two future periods: 2050s (2031–2060) and 2080s (2071–2100) based on model calibration and validation. Finally, the peaks over threshold (POT) method and generalized Pareto (GP) distribution are combined to evaluate the changes of flood frequency for the upper Huai River basin. The results show that 1) GCMs project that there has been an insignificant increasing trend in future precipitation series, while an obvious increasing trend is detected in future temperature series; 2) average monthly runoffs in low-flow season have seen decreasing trends under SSP245 and SSP585 scenarios during the 2050s, while there has been an obvious increasing trend of average monthly runoff in high-flow season during the 2080s; 3) there is a decreasing trend in design floods below the 50-year return period under two future scenarios during the 2050s, while there has been an significant increasing trend in design flood during the 2080s in most cases and the amplitude of increase becomes larger for a larger return period. The study suggests that future flood will probably occur more frequently and an urgent need to develop appropriate adaptation measures to increase social resilience to warming climate over the upper Huai River basin.
Leaf Functional Traits Vary in Urban Environments: Influences of Leaf Age, Land-Use Type, and Urban–Rural Gradient
Authors: Su Yuebo , Cui Bowen , Luo Yunjian , Wang Jia , Wang Xuming , Ouyang Zhiyun , Wang Xiaoke
Published: December 2021

An increasing number of studies have focused on the response and adaptation of plants to urbanization by comparing differences in leaf functional traits between urban and rural sites. However, considerable uncertainties remain because differences in land-use type have not frequently been taken into account when assessing the effect of urbanization on leaf traits. In this study, we sampled the needles of Chinese pine (Pinus tabuliformis Carr.) in areas with three land-use types (roadsides, parks, and neighborhoods) along an urban–rural gradient in Beijing, China to determine the effect of urbanization on leaf functional traits. There were significant differences in the values of leaf functional traits between the needles of the current and previous year and across land-use types. Pines growing on roadsides had leaves with smaller length, width, and area, as well as lower stomatal density, compared with those growing in parks and neighborhoods. This implies that on roadsides, plant capacity to acquire resources (e.g., light and carbon dioxide) was degraded. Stomatal density, leaf width, and leaf P concentration increased with increasing distance from the city center, while leaf K concentration decreased with increasing distance from the city center. Importantly, there were significant differences in the urban–rural gradient of leaf functional traits between leaves of different ages, and across land-use types. Leaf age was the most important factor influencing leaf nutrient traits, while land-use type was the most important factor influencing leaf morphological traits in urban environments. Thus, considering the effects of the plant characteristic and land-use type on traits is important for assessing the urban–rural gradients of plant functional traits.
Tooth Structure and Replacement of the Triassic Keichousaurus (Sauropterygia, Reptilia) From South China
Authors: Liao Jun-ling , Lan Tian , Xu Guang-hui , Li Ji , Qin Yan-jiao , Zhao Ming-sheng , Li Yu-lan , Wang Yue
Published: December 2021

The small-sized sauropterygianKeichousaurus huiwas one of the most abundant marine reptiles from the Triassic Yangtze Sea in South China. AlthoughKeichousaurushas been studied in many aspects, including the osteology, ontogeny, sexual dimorphism, and reproduction, the dentition of this marine reptile was only briefly described in external morphology. In this study, we provide new information onKeichousaurustooth implantation, histology, and replacement based on a detailed examination of well-preserved specimens collected in the past decades. The tooth histology has been investigated for the first time by analyzing cross-sections of premaxillary teeth and the tooth attachment and implantation have been further revealed by X-ray computed microtomography. We refer the tooth replacement ofKeichousaurusto the iguanid replacement type on the basis of the observed invasion of small replacement tooth into the pulp cavity of the functional tooth. Given the resemblance to other extinct and modern piscivorous predators in the morphology and structure of teeth,Keichousaurusmight mainly feed on small or juvenile fishes and some relatively soft-bodied invertebrates (e.g., mysidacean shrimps) from the same ecosystem.
Effects of Climate Change on the Distribution of Akebia quinata
Authors: Zhang Jun-Ming , Song Min-Li , Li Zhen-Jian , Peng Xiang-Yong , Su Shang , Li Bin , Xu Xin-Qiao , Wang Wei
Published: December 2021

Akebia quinata, also known as chocolate vine, is a creeping woody vine which is used as Chinese herbal medicine, and found widely distributed in East Asia. At present, its wild resources are being constantly destroyed. This study aims to provide a theoretical basis for the resource protection of this plant species by analyzing the possible changes in its geographic distribution pattern and its response to climate factors. It is the first time maximum entropy modeling (MaxEnt) and ArcGIS software have been used to predict the distribution of A. quinata in the past, the present, and the future (four greenhouse gas emission scenarios, namely, SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP3-7.0, and SSP5-8.5). Through the prediction results, the impact of climate change on the distribution of A. quinata and the response of A. quinata to climate factors were analyzed. The results showed that the most significant climatic factor affecting the distribution pattern of A. quinata was the annual precipitation. At present, the suitable distribution regions of A. quinata are mainly in the temperate zone, and a few suitable distribution regions are in the tropical zone. The medium and high suitable regions are mainly located in East Asia, accounting for 51.1 and 81.7% of the worldwide medium and high suitable regions, respectively. The migration of the geometric center of the distribution regions of A. quinata in East Asia is mainly affected by the change of distribution regions in China, and the average migration rate of the geometric center in each climate scenario is positively correlated with the level of greenhouse gas emission scenario.
Genetic Variation in Antimicrobial Activity of Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) Seminal Fluid
Authors: Holt Shannon , Cremen Naomi , Grassl Julia , Schmid-Hempel Paul , Baer Boris
Published: December 2021

Honey bees can host a remarkably large number of different parasites and pathogens, and some are known drivers of recent declines in wild and managed bee populations. Here, we studied the interactions between the fungal pathogen Nosema apis and seminal fluid of the Western honey bee (Apis mellifera). Honey bee seminal fluid contains multiple antimicrobial molecules that kill N. apis spores and we therefore hypothesized that antimicrobial activities of seminal fluid are genetically driven by interactions between honey bee genotype and different N. apis strains/ecotypes, with the virulence of a strain depending on the genotype of their honey bee hosts. Among the antimicrobials, chitinases have been found in honey bee seminal fluid and have the predicted N. apis killing capabilities. We measured chitinase activity in the seminal fluid of eight different colonies. Our results indicate that multiple chitinases are present in seminal fluid, with activity significantly differing between genotypes. We therefore pooled equal numbers of N. apis spores from eight different colonies and exposed subsamples to seminal fluid samples from each of the colonies. We infected males from each colony with seminal fluid exposed spore samples and quantified N. apis infections after 6 days. We found that host colony had a stronger effect compared to seminal fluid treatment, and significantly affected host mortality, infection intensity and parasite prevalence. We also found a significant effect of treatment, as well as a treatment × colony interaction when our data were analyzed ignoring cage as a blocking factor. Our findings provide evidence that N. apis-honey bee interactions are driven by genotypic effects, which could be used in the future for breeding purposes of disease resistant or tolerant honey bee stock.
Micro-Computed Tomography Reveals a Remarkable Twin Intromittent Organ in Spiders – A Novelty for Arachnids With Direct Sperm Transfer
Authors: Rix Michael G. , Wood Hannah M. , Harvey Mark S. , Michalik Peter
Published: December 2021

The modification of male pedipalps into secondary sexual intromittent organs is one of the hallmark characteristics of spiders, yet understanding the development and evolution of male genitalia across the order remains a challenging prospect. The embolus – the sclerite bearing the efferent spermatic duct or spermophor, and used to deliver sperm directly to the female genitalia during copulation – has always been considered the single unambiguously homologous palpal sclerite shared by all spider species, fundamental to the bauplan of the order and to the evolution and functional morphology of spider reproductive systems. Indeed, after two centuries of comparative research on spider reproduction, the presence of a single spermophor and embolus on each of a male spider’s two pedipalps remains a central tenet of evolutionary arachnology. Our findings challenge this premise, and reveal a remarkable twin intromittent organ sperm transfer system in a lineage of Australian palpimanoid spiders, characterized by a bifurcate spermophor and the presence of two efferent ducts leading to a pair of embolic sclerites on each pedipalp. This is the first time such a remarkable conformation has been observed in any group of arachnids with direct sperm transfer, complicating our understanding of palpal sclerite homologies, and challenging ideas about the evolution of spider genitalia.
Validating a Genomic Convergence and Network Analysis Approach Using Association Analysis of Identified Candidate Genes in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Talwar Puneet , Kushwaha Suman , Rawat Chitra , Kaur Harpreet , Srivastava Ankit , Agarwal Rachna , Chandna Puneet , Tucci Paolo , Saso Luciano , Kukreti Ritushree
Published: December 2021

Previously, we demonstrated an integrated genomic convergence and network analysis approach to identify the candidate genes associated with the complex neurodegenerative disorder, Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here, we performed a pilot study to validate the in silico approach by studying the association of genetic variants from three identified critical genes, APOE, EGFR, and ACTB, with AD. A total of 103 patients with AD and 146 healthy controls were recruited. A total of 46 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) spanning the three genes were genotyped, of which only 19 SNPs were included in the final analyses after excluding non-polymorphic and Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium-violating SNPs. Apart from our previously reported APOE ε4, four other SNPs in APOE (rs405509, rs7259620, −rs769449, and rs7256173), one in EGFR (rs6970262), and one in ACTB (rs852423) showed a significant association with AD (p < 0.05). Our results validate the reliability of genomic convergence and network analysis approach in identifying the AD-associated candidate genes.
Hepatic Macrophage as a Key Player in Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Xu Liyun , Liu Wen , Bai Fuxiang , Xu Yong , Liang Xiaohong , Ma Chunhong , Gao Lifen
Published: December 2021

Fatty liver disease, characterized by excessive inflammation and lipid deposition, is becoming one of the most prevalent liver metabolic diseases worldwide owing to the increasing global incidence of obesity. However, the underlying mechanisms of fatty liver disease are poorly understood. Accumulating evidence suggests that hepatic macrophages, specifically Kupffer cells (KCs), act as key players in the progression of fatty liver disease. Thus, it is essential to examine the current evidence of the roles of hepatic macrophages (both KCs and monocyte-derived macrophages). In this review, we primarily address the heterogeneities and multiple patterns of hepatic macrophages participating in the pathogenesis of fatty liver disease, including Toll-like receptors (TLRs), NLRP3 inflammasome, lipotoxicity, glucotoxicity, metabolic reprogramming, interaction with surrounding cells in the liver, and iron poisoning. A better understanding of the diverse roles of hepatic macrophages in the development of fatty liver disease may provide a more specific and promising macrophage-targeting therapeutic strategy for inflammatory liver diseases.
Homodimeric Minimal Factor H: In Vivo Tracking and Extended Dosing Studies in Factor H Deficient Mice
Authors: Kamala Ola , Malik Talat H. , Hallam Thomas M. , Cox Thomas E. , Yang Yi , Vyas Falguni , Luli Saimir , Connelly Chloe , Gibson Beth , Smith-Jackson Kate , Denton Harriet , Pappworth Isabel Y. , Huang Lei , Kavanagh David , Pickering Matthew C. , Marchbank Kevin J.
Published: December 2021

C3 glomerulopathy (C3G) is associated with dysregulation of the alternative pathway (AP) of complement and treatment options remain inadequate. Factor H (FH) is a potent regulator of the AP. An in-depth analysis of FH-related protein dimerised minimal (mini)-FH constructs has recently been published. This analysis showed that addition of a dimerisation module to mini-FH not only increased serum half-life but also improved complement regulatory function, thus providing a potential treatment option for C3G. Herein, we describe the production of a murine version of homodimeric mini-FH [mHDM-FH (mFH1–5^18–20^R1–2)], developed to reduce the risk of anti-drug antibody formation during long-term experiments in murine models of C3G and other complement-driven pathologies. Our analysis of mHDM-FH indicates that it binds with higher affinity and avidity to WT mC3b when compared to mouse (m)FH (mHDM-FH KD=505 nM; mFH KD=1370 nM) analogous to what we observed with the respective human proteins. The improved binding avidity resulted in enhanced complement regulatory function in haemolytic assays. Extended interval dosing studies inCFH-/-mice (5mg/kg every 72hrs) were partially effective and bio-distribution analysis inCFH-/-mice, throughin vivoimaging technologies, demonstrates that mHDM-FH is preferentially deposited and remains fixed in the kidneys (and liver) for up to 4 days. Extended dosing using an AAV- human HDM-FH (hHDM-FH) construct achieved complete normalisation of C3 levels inCFH-/-mice for 3 months and was associated with a significant reduction in glomerular C3 staining. Our data demonstrate the ability of gene therapy delivery of mini-FH constructs to enhance complement regulationin vivoand support the application of this approach as a novel treatment strategy in diseases such as C3G.